Avatar: The Last Alicorn. Book 2: Earth Pony

Chapters

Chapter 1: Auspicious Beginnings
Chapter 2: Captivating Dangers
Chapter 3: Expeditious Flights
Chapter 4: Gathered Hazards
Chapter 5: Inconspicuous Jumps
Chapter 6: Kinsmen Lost
Chapter 7: Mournful Nights
Chapter 8: Overwhelming Plans
Chapter 9: Quiet Reminders
Chapter 10: Savage Trials
Chapter 11: Unforgiven Villains
Chapter 12: Wronged Xenos
Chapter 13: Youthful Zooming
Chapter 14: Consolidating Forces
Chapter 15: Accursed Luck
Chapter 16: Confidently Positioned
Chapter 17: Immense Opposition
Chapter 18: Planned Confrontation
Chapter 19: Earned Rest
Chapter 20: Revealed Elements
Chapter 21: Forgotten knowledge
Chapter 22: Perilous Heights
Chapter 23: Viscious Trial
Chapter 24: New Opportunities
Chapter 25: Spa Days
Chapter 26: Sinking Feeling
Chapter 27: Underground Encounters
Chapter 28: Prodigal Sister
Chapter 29: Unjust Rulings
Chapter 30: Final Assault
Spoiler: Book 3

Chapter 1: Auspicious Beginnings

The sun slowly rose into the sky as the moon dipped back behind the mountains. Its glow rapidly spread across the land, awakening all manners of animals as its warmth alerted the world to the beginning of a new day.

The light quickly found its way to a large floating city, built on top of the clouds that hovered above an even larger walled city. Ponies ran about doing their daily tasks, be they working on homes, planting food, moving the clouds about or even practicing their air bending. A slight distance from the city a small course of obstacles, including a miniature cyclone, blizzard and a flurry of electricity-filled rain clouds, was stationed. A pegasus wearing a blue skin tight suit with yellow lightning bolts gazed at a clip board. She also had an orange and yellow mane. She was Spitfire, of the wonderbolts.

“Okay everypony!” she called out towards a small group of pegasi in similar outfits. “You all know why you're here. Most of you have spent the last month recouping after the Water Nation's attack. As a matter of fact, everypony has been working their hooves to the bone!” The mare began to pace as the ponies nodded in unison. “That's why today is so important! They've only been here a short bit, but Chickenwings and her friends have been invaluable both morally and with the defense of the last bastion of air benders. It may be the last day of their stay, but we won't let them just fade out like a gentle breeze! We're going to throw them a real twister of a party!” the ponies cheered and jumped up and down on the clouds. “Not only that, we're going to show them just how much we appreciate what they've done for us. That's right...” she turned towards the cyclone as a grin crossed her lips. “We're going to send them through... the Wonder-maker.”

The gathered ponies gasped as one near the front let out cries of disbelief as he looked back and forth between the others. “Ih wha, uh, gwa, UWAA! WAAAA! WAAAA! Grggg... grgggllll...” he foamed at the mouth for a few moments before dropping in a faint.

“Yes yes. I know they've only been with us a single month. But they can handle it! They've already stood up against the best the Water Nation has to offer. After that, this'll be a piece of cake,” she said with a nod as she turned back towards them. “We need to have it ready first! Every pony, I need this moving fast, moving hard and down near the ground! There isn't a pony within ten miles who'd wanna miss this! Now break!” she yelled as the ponies let out a cheer and flew off into the air.

A few clouds away a small blue pegasus with a rainbow colored mane and tail curled up in her warm cloud bed, occasionally letting out soft snores. She was on the top bunk and, in the bunk below hers, a purple alicorn with a dark purple streaked mane and tail was sleeping as well. The two were quite peaceful and relaxed until the door to their room suddenly burst open. “GOOD MORNING EVERYPONY!” a bright pink earth pony with a puffy mane and tail yelled as she barged inside and blew on a large horn.

“GAHHHHHH!” the two flying ponies screamed in unison as they jumped, manes on end, before crashing into the ground in a small pile.

“Pinkie... why?” the rainbow-maned one asked.

“It's a super duper special day!” Pinkie said as she hopped around the room.

“Rainbow... Dash...” the alicorn grumbled as she tried to get the other mare off her. “Your hoof... is in my nose...”

“Huh? Oh!” Rainbow said as she pulled off the mare. “Sorry, Twilight. Wait. Pinkie, how are you...” she groaned as she face hooved. “They cast that spell on you again, didn't they?”

“Yeppy peppy! I told them I wanted to come and get you up!” the earth pony said as she hopped around the room before blowing on their beds, sending some of the clouds fluttering off.

“My bed... no...” Rainbow whined as she watched the pink pony hop around the room and begin knocking their floating beds around like beach balls. “Ugh, fine... we're up. Let's go get some breakfast...” she grumbled.

“Ahhh!” Twilight said as the cloud bed landed on her. “Pinkie!”

“Hee hee, sorry,” the pink pony said as she wiped the cloud off. “Come onnn! Fluttershy and Spike are waiting!” she said as she hopped out of the room.

“Awhhhhhh...” Rainbow yawned as she put a hoof over her mouth. “Yeah. Let's go get some grub. Maybe I'll take another nap after,” she grumbled as she started walking down the hall. Her tail dragged across the ground as the tired pony occasionally stifled her yawned.

Twilight rolled her eyes as she followed after her friends. It wasn't long before she came to the mess hall, where rows of long tables had been set up. A young yellow pegasus with a pink mane was sitting at one of the tables and gently feeding something in her lap. As the alicorn came closer she could see the tiny purple dragon, with green spikes on his spine, laying on his stomach as the mare massaged his back. “Fluttershy, you shouldn't spoil Spike like that,” the purple mare said with a roll of her eyes.

“Oh, I'm sorry...” the pegasus mumbled as she moved her hooves to her side. “I just didn't want the poor dear to fall through the clouds and when I had him in my lap he seemed so tense... sorry...”

“Heyyyyy,” Spike objected as his eyes opened. “I was comfortable. What's the big idea?”

“Oh, sorry,” Fluttershy eeped as she went back to the massage. After a moment she froze and looked back to Twilight. Then back to Spike. Then back to Twilight. She let out a loud cry of distress as her hooves covered her eyes. “Ohhhhhh!”

The alicorn rolled her eyes as she moved to the table to sit by Rainbow, who was already stuffing her face. “It's fine,” the purple mare said. “Just don't expect one every day.” She licked her lips as she picked up a large juicy apple and brought it to her mouth. She opened slowly, about to taste the delicious fruit, when the door to the mess hall opened.

“Chickenwing! Rainboom!” a wonderbolt said as he looked at them with narrowed eyes. “Happy you finally manages to climb out of bed. You have five minutes then I want you both outside! Better chew your food quickly, ladies!” the pony snapped as he slammed the door shut.

Twilight sighed as she took a bite of her apple, her excitement for breakfast sufficiently broken. “I really wish they'd stop calling me that. My wings are fully grown now,” she grumbled.

“Aw, don't worry about it, Chickenwing,” Rainbow said with a smirk. “Everypony here has a nickname.”

“You only say that because you have an awesome one,” the alicorn said with a roll of her eyes. “How will this sound in future generations? 'Now let us look back, foals, on the stories of Avatar Chickenwing'.”

“Oh relax, they won't talk about it like that,” the pegasus assured her as she bit into an apple and continued talking with her mouth full, “Thay'll beh 'oo busy talkin',” swallow, “about your awesome comrade Rainbow Dash, speedster extraordinaire.”

“I hate to interrupt this riveting conversation,” Spike said with a roll of his eyes, “but if you two don't hurry you'll have to do your lessons on an empty stomach.”

The two fliers glanced at each other and nervously gulped. They quickly began to tuck into the food.

Far from the city of Cloudsdale, in a small bay known as Starfall Bay, a single Water Nation outpost stood overlooking the water. The fortification was well worn from the constant sea breezes, rust coating nearly every inch of the metal and pieces of wood almost rotted through. A single airship was at the dock being stocked up by strong earth ponies, bereft of any uniforms or armor.

Standing near the dock was a single unicorn mare, with a pure white coat and curly purple mane and tail. She wore a black dress with a crescent moon across the chest. The only blemish on her body were dark purple marks across her horn. “That ship should be ours,” the mare grumbled. “Auntie Celestia, why can't you commandeer it?” the mare asked the much larger pony besides her, as she made her eyes as large and adorable as possible.

“Now Rarity,” an older unicorn mare who was sitting by the other said softly. Her coat was white as well, with a near clear mane and tail. She wore a rainbow cloak with images of wings sewn into it. “As I've told you a dozen times, you must be patient. Our ship will arrive soon, but until then we must wait.”

“But it's not fair! I'm a princess!” Rarity snapped as she paced back and forth. “Every day we wait is another day we may lose track of the avatar! We should set out on our own!”

“Now dear, you know how dangerous that is,” Celestia said with a shake of her head. “We're barely a days trip from the Earth Kingdom. Traveling through the air would be fine, but on hoof would be near suicide. We'd be lucky to survive a week, let alone capture the avatar.”

“Ugh,” the young princess said as she laid on her stomach. “But I'm so bored! There is nothing... to... oh my,” she squeaked as she gazed out into the bay.

“What is it dear?” the larger unicorn asked as she turned to see. Her mouth fell open. “That cannot be good...”

Five massive ships, each able to hold dozens of ponies and pulled by ten pegasi in black armor, were making their way through the bay. The two unicorns watched as the ships slowly pulled into the outpost and the center one lowered its ramp. Unicorns, wearing black armor covered with images of the crescent moon, slowly began their descent before standing at opposite ends of the foot of the ramp. They faced each other and then bowed.

Finally, a pony walked to the top of the ramp. She was a small white unicorn, with a bouncy mane and tail that had streaks of light purple and light pink through it. She wore a dark blue helmet along with a blue chest guard with the emblem of the moon. Her hooves were covered in dark blue guards with emblems of the moon on them as well. Her cutie mark was a large purple heart with a viper coiled around it.

The mere sight of her made the young princess' mouth fall open. “Sweetie Belle?” Rarity said softly.

“Sister!” Sweetie shrieked as she ran down the ramp. Her hooves embraced the older unicorn within moments.

“Sweetie Belle? Whatever are you doing here?” the princess asked as she held her younger sister in her hooves.

“I've come for you, of course,” the young mare said as she slowly broke the hug. “I heard you were in this horrible place and I just could not let it stand any longer. I have talked it over with mother and she has come to a decision. She wishes for you to return.”

“W-what?” Rarity asked as her mouth fell open a second time. “B-but what of my honor?”

“Forgiven. All is forgiven, dear sister,” Sweetie said with a smile. “Mother realizes she acted in haste. With the arrival of the avatar endangering all we hold dear, she wishes for you to return at her side. To return with me. My dear, dear sister...” the young mare's eyes flashed purple for a moment, causing Celestia to cringe.

“Fascinating,” the eldest unicorn said. “I see you have acquired your cutie mark, niece.”

“Oh? Yes,” the younger princess said. “It happened when... well that isn't important. Come, come, join me. My ship awaits, let us leave this dreary place.” The mare said as she tugged on Rarity's hoof, towards the ship.

“Indeed,” Celestia said as she glanced towards the waiting ship. “If you would give us a few moments to gather our things?”

“Oh, of course, of course,” Sweetie said as she let go and walked towards the ship. “Please don't keep me waiting long.” After a few steps the little mare burst into a happy prance.

Rarity waved her sister away before turning to her aunt. “Can you believe it? We can finally go home!” she squealed as she turned and ran into the outpost.

Celestia sighed as she followed after the princess. “Now Rarity, please calm down,” she said gently as she entered the building and scanned the area for any soldiers, but none were within view. “Come back.”

The princess sighed as she trotted back. “What is it? How are you not jumping for joy? We're going to see mother again! Be at the palace! Ohhhhh, I'll be able to design in my own personal workshop again! It is almost too wonderful to believe!”

“No, you are right, niece,” the elder pony said with a shake of her head. “It is too wonderful to believe. In fact, I would guess it is all lies.”

Rarity froze mid step. She then cocked an eyebrow and glanced back to Celestia. “I'm sorry, but what?”

“I believe it is all lies,” the mare repeated. “I do not believe my sister would let us return, so easily. My instincts tell me it is a trap.”

The princess burst into soft chuckles as she shook her head. “Now, auntie, I know you're one for caution, but don't be ridiculous. This is Sweetie Belle! She wouldn't lie to me if her life depended on it, let alone try to trap me. You remember how she was when we left?”

“Of course, she-”

“Cried like a filly,” Rarity said as she began walking again. “You worry too much. Aren't you even a little excited to see the capital again?”

“Rarity, when we left your sister didn't have her cutie mark,” Celestia said firmly as she followed after the young unicorn. “Please, do not allow your excitement to cloud your senses.”

“Relax. While I'll admit her cutie mark is a bit... odd,” the princess said with a turn of her head. “Dear Sweetie Belle couldn't hurt a fly, let alone us. You saw how excited she was.”

“Very well,” the older mare said as she sighed. “If you are quite certain, I will not argue...”

“Good. Now, we must prepare!” Rarity said as she began packing. “Ohhhh, it's been so long since I've been home! I wonder how the fashion trends have changed. Do you think some of the designs I was working on would fit in? No, no, I cannot reuse. I must reinvent!” the unicorn pranced about as she tossed her things into boxes in preparation.

“I don't know how you managed to gather so much in the short time we've been here,” Celestia mumbled as she gave a nervous glance back the way they came.

Twilight, or Chickenwings as she was better known, groaned as she slowly walked out from the mess hall. The sight before her made the mare stop in her tracks. Ponies of all kinds were sitting just outside on the grass. The mess hall had been grounded! “W-what? What's going on?” she asked as she looked about frantically. She spread out her wings and planted her hooves, preparing for a fight.

“Avatar Chickenwings! Air bender Rainboom!” a loud mare's voice boomed out.

“What's going on?” Rainbow asked as she popped out at the sound of her nickname. “Why are we on the ground?”

“Today is a very special, if sad, day!” the voice boomed again. “For today is the day you leave us. As such, a special challenge has been prepared. Behold!” Fireworks filled the sky as six of the wonderbolts took to the air. The ponies ran straight into a wall of clouds and tore it apart, revealing the obstacle course behind it. A long trail of cloud rings, each with a cloud inside them, were set up in tight formations, requiring a pony to make multiple ninety to a hundred and eighty degree turns in quick succession to go through.

Three tornados were maintained at different intervals, separating the course into four sections. The first section was clear, the second encased in a fierce downpour, the third was enshrouded in snow and ice while the fourth, and final, section was filled with fierce lightning clouds.

“The wonder-maker! An obstacle course only the greatest of air benders can hope to pass!” the voice boomed as a pony landed on the roof of the mess hall behind them, Spitfire. The mare held a megaphone in her hooves. “If you two can manage to make it through that, you'll officially be air bending masters, as well as honorary wonderbolts! Are you two ready?”

Rainbow blinked and grinned. “Oh YEAH! Hang onto your feathers everypony, I'm going to show you all how a master flies!” the confident pony yelled as she jumped into the air and did a little spin.

“Ummm... y-yeah. Uhhh, me too...” Twilight said nervously as she stared at the powerful storms above.

The crowd burst into cheers as the ponies stomped their hooves in excitement. “Okay every pony!” Spitfire yelled. “We all know you're excited, but let's tell the two the rules first! It's simple. You need to knock out every single cloud without touching a single ring! Not only that, it's timed! You have ten minutes, though the current record is six! Think you got what it takes to break the record?”

“I'm gonna shatter that record!” Rainbow yelled as she took off. She flew over to the first ring with a grin. “Okay, everypony! I hope you're ready for the best show of your lives! Don't blink, or you might miss me crossing the finish line!” with those words the pony took off! She was a rainbow blur across the sky, zipping along between the cloud circles so fast the spectators could barely see her. As she passed each circle the force of her speed not only tore the cloud asunder, but spread out and burst the rings as well. Within seconds she was through the rings and straight into the first tornado.

“Okay everypony! She's done with the first section in only a few seconds, but that's the easiest and shortest part!” Spitfire yelled into the megaphone. “Next comes the true challenges of her air bending! Can she control the wind and... and... holy buck...” the pegasus' mouth hung open as she stared.

The crowd went silent as Rainbow performed. She had just zoomed straight through the tornado, spinning two full circles before blasting off into the snow section with such force the winds were blown apart and the wonderbolt controlling them was sent hurtling into a nearby cloud. The speedster didn't slow down, bursting through the cloud rings so fast that she had a trail of water flowing after her.

As the mare disappeared into the second tornado the crowd just stared, every eye trying to focus on the blur as it burst straight through into the snow and ice. The blur did slow down for a moment at the first turn, but after that she began speeding off even faster, pulling a small blizzard in her slip stream.

Rainbow tore into the last tornado and spun around it five times before zooming out and into the final section. Water, snow, clouds and wind surrounded the blur as she tore through the final section of the obstacle course. She turned perfectly and, no matter the angle, hit each ring dead center. As she finally tore through the final cloud-ring she hurtled towards the mess-hall cloud and slammed into it, sending the captured liquids outward into the crowds. The pony brushed a hoof through her mane and smirked.

“Holy... four minutes, twenty-eight seconds! It's a new record!” Spitfire yelled. The gathered ponies jumped up and down in cheers. Even Fluttershy, a mare normally unable to talk above a squeak, was cheering as she jumping up and down, waving her hooves.

“Was there ever any doubt?” the pegasus asked as she whipped her head forward, sending the moisture from her mane into the crowd.

“Well, there we have it!” Spitfire yelled into the megaphone. “Rainboom has put on a tremendous display! I give you, our newest air bending master! Quite a show you put on there. We've had a few break down the course before, but never with such vigor.” The pegasus glanced back to Twilight and chuckled. “Don't worry, we'll have it set up again for you. It shouldn't take too long.”

“Huh?” the alicorn asked before waving her hoof. “No no! Don't worry about it, take your time. I'll uhhh, I'll just go ahead and ummm, wait here,” she mumbled softly as she looked off to the side.

“Heh. Well, you heard the pony, let's get this going!” The wonderbolt yelled as she threw down the megaphone and took to the sky to help with the re-construction.

Rarity pranced from side to side as she traveled down the hall. Celestia walked behind her, unable to stop smiling at the sight of her nieces joy. However, she could not help but look ahead with dread. Every nerve in her body told her this was a bad idea. Before long the two were outside and walking towards the airship as the unicorns on either side bowed their heads.

Sweetie stood at the top of the platform and waved her hoof. “Come, come! It's time we return home!” she said excitedly. “You'll never have to travel these lands again. We can be together forever,” the young mare said as she grinned widely.

“See, aunty? You worried for nothing,” Rarity said as she started up the incline. “It's Sweetie Belle. Somepony like her could never try to deceive any pony.”

Celestia nodded as she glanced back at the other ponies behind them. As she boarded the ship she glanced around, a number of jugs of water were set up on the deck.

“Miss Rarity, Miss Celestia,” one of the water benders said as he bowed his head. “Please, allow me to show you to your cage.” Everypony froze as the unicorn's ears went flat. “I... I mean, y-you-”

“Cage?!” Rarity blurted as she took a step back. Celestia planted both her hooves firmly on the deck as she looked around. The water benders encircled the two as they took offensive stances.

“No no, sister! You misunderstand!” Sweetie said as her eyes glinted purple. “It's just a precaution. To ensure you can be with me... forever...”

“Sweetie, what are you talking about?” Rarity asked as she pushed up against her aunt.

“There's no more need to run, dear sister...” Sweetie said as her horn began to glow. Water from one of the nearby jugs flowed up and swirled over her head. It began to shift and bubble as it changed from clear blue to a thick, purple glob. “You'll be safe with me.” The orb exploded, sending dozens of purple shards at the young mare.

Celestia grabbed her niece and forced the young mare behind her, grunting in pain as she blocked the purple liquid with her body. A light sizzling filled the air as her own horn glowed. Water sprang up from all the jugs and hurtled straight at the ponies opposite the boarding plank. They were knocked aside as the elder pony held Rarity and ran to the side of the ship, jumping off into the bay below.

Sweetie let out a howl of rage as she ran to the edge of the ship and glared at the water below. “AFTER THEM!” she screamed before turning to the pony who had slipped up. “If they escape, it will be your head.”

Below the flying ship a thick fog began to fill the air. The ponies in the ships gulped as they dove over and began their search.

Twilight gulped nervously as she stared below. Everypony was watching her, waiting to see the show she'd put on. She was standing on a cloud, the obstacle course re-created and directly in front of her.

“Okay, Chickenwings!” Spitfire yelled into the megaphone. “Come on, show us what an avatar can do!”

The avatar nodded nervously as she stepped to the edge of the cloud. “R-right. W-what I can do. H-here I go!” she squeaked as she leaned forward... and then back. “Err, I mean now.” She wobbled a little. “A-any moment now...” she said as she glared back at her wings. “Come on, work!” she shrieked as they finally spread out. With a sigh of relief the pony charged forward... and tripped over the edge of the cloud, tumbling out. “Eek!”

“Oh, wow, look at that!” Spitfire yelled as the crowd cheered. “Doing it while flying upside down, now that's confidence!”

“Ahhhh!” Twilight screamed as she flailed her hooves about wildly. She burst through the final ring and managed to right herself, though her movements were still wild and jagged as she made her way through the next batch of rings. Going slow and steady she began eliminating each cloud in the rings, though it sometimes took her two hits to burst them. “Heee! This is kind of fun!”

The avatar began showing off, going through the rings at a third of her top speed and bursting the clouds as she went through. “Yes! This isn't hard at all! I- EEK!” she screamed as she went through the last cloud ring and straight into the tornado. “AHHHHHHHHH!” She flailed her hooves wildly as she tried to steady herself, but alas she couldn't stop the horrible spinning. She erratically spun through the tornado as she tried flapping her wings and bending the air around her. She managed to shoot up through the gale and straight into the wonderbolt trying to contain and control the winds.

Both flailed about as the tornado gripped and twirled them around in a tight circle. No longer held by the air bender, it began to plow through the obstacle course towards the other twisters. Ponies on the ground screamed in horror as clouds, rain and winds combined into powerful gales of destruction. The second wonderbolt ended his winds as he flew at the trapped ponies, intent on helping. Within moments he was sucked in as well as the two pegasi and alicorn flew around in the howling cyclone.

Spitfire stared, mouth open. “Okay, everypony! Wonderbolts, on me! We're going to counter that 'nado! Counter-clockwise!” she glanced down to Rainbow and smiled. “Come on, you're with me.”

“Alright!” Rainbow said as the two took to the air. More wonderbolts joined them as they began circling the gales at a distance. They started out a fair bit away, before tightening the circle with each lap around. Before long the tight formation of pegasi were wrapping tightly around the smaller cyclone and its winds began to weaken.

“Now!” Spitfire yelled as three of the wonderbolts broke off from the group and dove into the destabilizing tornado. A moment later they popped out the opposite end with the three ponies, each one dizzy with swirling eyes. “Okay, they're clear, let's get this out of here!” she yelled as her wings began to flap rapidly. The other pegasi copied her movements as the winds burst around them and started breaking apart. Rain and snow were sent hurtling to the ground as the wonderbolts flew straight up, out of the dying gales.

“That was awesome!” Rainbow yelled as she landed on a nearby cloud with the others.

“A little,” the wonderbolt said as she looked down at the poor ponies. The four rescued ponies were laying flat out on the ground below, their eyes little spirals. “I sure hope they'll be okay. I wonder what... oh dear. That can't be good.”

“What?” the rainbow-maned pegasus asked as she looked down. Her eyes went wide as she saw it. Six earth ponies, each in thick iron armor, were walking towards the gathered ponies. A blue pegasus with a dark blue mane and tail was walking a bit ahead of them. “Earth kingdom?”

“Yeah...” Spitfire muttered. “Soarin's with them. I guess this means all the prisoners have made it to Earth Kingdom okay, but why would they come back?”

“I don't know,” Rainbow mumbled. “We should probably go check it out.” She took off from the cloud as the others followed after her.

As they landed Twilight was being pulled to her hooves by Soarin, who looked a bit nervous. “So, avatar, these ponies would like to chat with you. They want-”

“No need to be so shy about it,” said the pony in front, a blue-coated, red maned and tailed earth pony. “Avatar, we have come to discuss the end of this war.”

“Huh?” Twilight asked as she rubbed her head and groaned. “O-oh yeah. I ummm, I'm trying my best. I still have two elements to learn.” She glanced to Spitfire and gulped. “And three to master.”

“No, no,” the earth pony said as a grin flashed on his face. “I mean a way to end this war. Now. All we need is your help,” he said as he held out his hoof.

“I... what?” Spitfire asked as she glanced to Soarin. “What is he talking about?”

“Oh, you should know exactly what I'm talking about,” the earth pony said as he slammed a hoof down on the ground. “I'm speaking of using the power the avatar used to defeat the army attacking Cloudsdale! The power to control these spirit animals! With such things the entire Water Nation would quiver before her might and this war would end!”

“WHAT?!” Twilight, Rainbow, Spitfire and Pinkie said at once.

Soarin coughed as he lifted a hoof. “For the record, this was not my idea.”

Far from the war discussions, back at Starfall Bay, Sweetie hummed softly as she sat on a small bench in her room. She had the head of a life-sized unicorn doll, with the same coloration’s as her sister, in her lap. She slowly ran a brush through the dolls hair. “Why, yes I have been sister. I know my dress making skills aren't as good as yours, but now that you're here you can show me all your secrets. Oh, don't worry. We have all the time in the world! I've been so busy since you left,” she cooed as she ran the brush through the mane. “So many things I want to tell you. I even got my cutie mark. Oh, you do? You're so kind, but I really think yours is nicer. We're going to have the most wonderful party when we get back. You will make our dresses, won't you? Ohhhh! I would love to help! I ca-” the mare stopped as she heard a light tapping on her door. “Who is it?”

“Y-your highness, it's me,” a voice opposite the door said. “Aquahoof.”

“Ah, of course,” Sweetie said as she gripped the doll in her magic and slid it across the room. She dropped it into a large cage that took up half the large room, filled with fine clothes and a big fluffy bed. “Do come in.”

The door opened and a nervous looking unicorn stepped inside. The same one who had accidentally alerted Rarity before. “Errr, we've searched the bay, but the princess is nowhere to be found. They've escaped.”

“Oh?” the young mare asked as she idly plucked some stray hairs from the brush. “Then why are you here?”

“B-because I-I felt I should alert you,” he said softly as he stared at the floor.

“Oh, no. Not what I meant,” she said as she placed the brush on the table. “I must say, I commend you.”

“Y-you do?” he asked as he let out a sigh of relief. “You're too kind, princess.”

“Oh, no,” she said as she got to her hooves. “Not every pony would come to their deaths so willingly. You are quite brave.” Her horn glowed as water lifted up and out of a nearby jug.

“W-what? No! W-wait!” he shrieked as he backed away. “I-I can go back out! L-look again! Please! I just- AGHHHHHHH!”

A few moments after the screams stopped, Sweetie walked out from the room and trotted to the deck. The captain of the ship gulped as she smiled at the little princess. “W-where to, your highness?”

“We're heading back to Water Nation,” she said calmly as she looked out over the bay.

“Water Nation? But what of your sister?”

“She'll be heading after the avatar,” Sweetie said with a grin. “We'll just have to get her first. For that I desire specific help. Also, one of your soldiers made a mess in my room. Have somepony clean it.”

“R-right away,” the captain said as she trotted off.

Far from the bay, Celestia slowly crawled from the water onto an empty beach. The mare groaned as she collapsed on her side. “Ugh...”

Rarity coughed as she plucked herself from the tide as well, shaking the water from her mane. “Auntie? Are you okay? What was that?”

“I... I will be fine...” the elder pony mumbled. “Escaping just... took more out of me than it should have. I just need some time to rest,” she mumbled as she held up a hoof. The purple liquid slowly spilled out from her wounds, as well as a little blood. She let out a sigh of relief. “Dear... I need you to find some leaves to make a dressing...”

“Of course,” the unicorn said as she started to head inland, before stopping. “Aunt Celestia? What was that? What Sweetie did?”

The mare let out another soft sigh. “That... is a long story. When you return I will tell you all about it, and what has happened to your sister to make her change so.”

Rarity nodded and sighed. She trotted off, though she gave one last glance towards the sea. Off in the distance she could see the five ships as they exited the bay, heading off in the opposite direction. “Oh sister, what has happened to you?”

Author's Note

Here we go again! Hope you're ready for another long story. :) Thanks for checking this out!

Chapter 2: Captivating Dangers

Ponies struggled to peek and listen into a single large tent that now held the avatar, her companions, the Wonderbolts and the envoys from the Earth Kingdom were talking. They pushed and shoved their way forward, trying to get in a good position. Suddenly the tent flap opened. Spitfire stood in the entrance and glared. “Everypony, out!” she snapped. The ponies let out a collective eek before running away.

The mare shook her head as she walked back inside. “Sorry about that. They're just... excitable. Now, where were we? Filthy, I believe you had the floor?”

“Please, just Rich. As I was trying to say out there, Avatar,” the envoy from Earth Kingdom said, “is with the power of the spirit animals we could destroy the Water Nation once and for all. I've heard all about what they did here, cutting a swathe through the Air Nomads lands. Spear heading the Water Nations greatest assault in over a century. There had to be thousands of ponies here, many of them water benders. You captured many of them and sent the rest into a full blown retreat in a single night. Neigh, a single hour!”

Twilight nodded slowly. “Well, yes, that is true. But those were extenuating circumstances. I had the willing help of the creature. That only happened because I had helped rescue its young from the General Trixie.”

“So?” Filthy asked. “Do what she did, capture these creatures and make them fight for you. With just a few of them we could win this war. I have my forces primed and-”

“NO!” Twilight snapped as she put a hoof down. “I'm not Trixie! I won't enslave these creatures for my own personal gain, I-”

“Personal gain?!” the earth pony snapped as he got to his hooves. “This is not a competition, Avatar. This is war! Ponies are dying! Hundreds, thousands! Every day that the Water Nation stands is another day that more mares and stallions fall to their deaths!”

“Control yourself!” Spitfire hissed as she glared at him. “This is the avatar you are speaking to, you can't-”

“No, he's right,” Twilight said as she hung her head. “This... this is indeed war. Ponies are dying. I will try.” The earth pony grinned, though the alicorn raised a hoof. “But I will not enslave them. To do that would be a grave misuse of my power. I will try to find those that will help me.” She got to her hooves and headed towards the exit, “I'll be in my room. I need to further study the book the Phantom left for me, if I am going to repeat this spell.”

The others watched her leave before turning to glare at the general, even Fluttershy. “What?” Filthy asked with a roll of his eyes. “You're all just mad because you know I'm right. Mmmm hmmm.” The pony said with a snap of his hoof. Somehow.

Rarity trotted through the woods, a smile on her face. Across her back she had a number of blue leaves laying flat, useful medical plants that Celestia had trained her to identify years ago. Her aunty was going to be so proud.

She soon returned to where the elder unicorn lay and froze in her tracks. Celestia had made a small fire and was laying besides it. Completely still and flat. “AUNTY!” Rarity yelled as she darted to the mare's side. “Oh no no no, please. D-don't die on me. I'm sorry I talked bad about you! I'm sorry I was so disobedient! I'll find you a new kazoo, j-just please don't-”

“Rarity... I'm fine,” the elder pony groaned as she opened her eyes. “I was merely resting... did you find the leaves?”

“Yes!” the dethroned princess said as she dropped the blue leaves besides the mare. “Here. Will these really help? What about... what's in you?”

“I've already drawn the poison out, no need to fret,” Celestia said with a smile as she began to apply the leaves. “I just need some rest. I will be fine within a few hours. For now, we must talk and I must apologize.”

“Apologize? But you haven't done anything. If anypony should be apologizing, it's me. It's because of me that we were in that situation...”

“No. It is not,” the white unicorn mumbled as she gazed into the fire. “It is because of me that your sister is even in that state, as well as your mother.”

“What? How could it possibly be your fault?”

“Do you remember back when you were a filly, soon after Sweetie Belle was born? Back when your father was still... with us?”

Rarity froze for a few moments as her hooves began to shake. “I... y-yes... I remember. Mother used to talk about you all the time. How you were waging war on the front lines, protecting the nation. She always told me you were one of the bravest princesses there had ever been.”

Celestia burst into laughter as she shook her head. “Bravest? I was nothing but a coward. I wasn't waging war, I was hiding!”

Rarity blinked a few times as she looked at the fire. “H-hiding? How? We received trophies and gifts from you all the time. Spoils of war.”

“Oh, I was there,” the unicorn said with a snort. “I even led the charges many times. But I wasn't there because I was brave, I was there because I was too afraid to come home. Do you remember your grandfather?”

Rarity cringed as her hoof gently touched her cheek. “Y-yes... I'll... I'll never forget him.”

“I see,” the elder pony whispered gently as she took the younger mare's hoof. “He seemed like a harsh, cruel stallion, did he not? One who would accept nothing, but perfection?”

“Yes,” Rarity said softly as she struggled to block out those memories.

“He used to be one of the kindest stallions you'd have ever known,” Celestia said as she turned to the fire.

“WHAT?!” Rarity snapped. “He was a brute! A monster! He was... he was...”

“Just like my sister, Nightmare Moon?”

“NO! Mother was never like that! She was just... she was suffering. When grandfather died and she took up the mantle, she...”

“It was my fault. My father used to be a kind, sweet stallion. One who would pick up and coddle a crying filly, even if she was covered in dirt and muck and he was in his finest evening wear. He was much like your father and my dear sister. Before my failure and cowardice changed her.”

“Stop talking in riddles!” Rarity hissed as she slammed a hoof down.

“Discord,” Celestia said as she closed her eyes. “You know of the ancient tradition that was to be your birthright. The legends of how we took an essence of Discord, a powerful spirit, and bent it to our will?”

“Yes,” Rarity said softly. “It's the sign of our royal line. Only the strongest can have it, the true ruler of our kingdom. Why?”

“The essence is so much more,” she whispered. “When my father gained it, it changed and twisted him. My sister refused to see, blaming the stress of ruling our kingdom, but I knew the truth. It turned his once kind heart wicked. I... I was afraid. Stars forgive me, I was so afraid.”

“... What do you mean?” Rarity asked as she dug her hooves into the ground.

“Father was dying. I knew he would want me to return home for the ritual of ascension before he departed this world, but I made excuses. Again and again I got caught up in battle. I tried to wait him out,” as Celestia said the words a sad grin formed on her lips. “But the old pony changed the rules. Without me, he took the next best thing. My dear sister, Luna.”

“No,” the fallen princess growled with a stomp of her hooves. “That is my mother, she-”

“Let me finish!” the elder unicorn snapped. The young princess went silent in response. “It changed her. She had once looked up to me, but soon it twisted into jealousy. She began to strike down all who talked against her. When I returned, she taunted me incessantly of how she stole my birthright, but I knew the truth. My cowardice hadn't cost me a kingdom, it had cost me a sister... and you a mother. Now, I'm afraid it has repeated itself. Dear Sweetie Belle holds part of the essence of Discord within her. That is why she... tried that. Why she attacked you with poison bending of all things.”

“How...” Rarity asked softly as she laid down on the ground. “There... I... is there a cure? How can we fix it? I mean... no. It can't be. Sweetie is not some monster that-”

“SHE IS! Oh, what I wouldn't give to have stopped this fate from befalling them, but it is done. No matter what I wish, it cannot be undone,” Celestia said as tears went down her eyes.

“What... what do you mean, cannot be undone?”

“There is no way to fix this,” the elder pony said as she blew her nose into her cloak. “I've tried... oh by the stars and moon I've tried. Your father and I used any means we could, but there was no way to save her. He protected me, but in the end he-”

“YOU DRAGGED MY FATHER INTO THIS?!” Rarity yelled as she got to her hooves.

“... Yes,” Celestia whispered. “We were... we were foalish. He saw the corruption in her. What she had become. I... I wanted to bring my sister back. But there was no way... even the avatar couldn't do it, what hope did we?” The mare shook as she tried to wipe away the tears. “When your mother found out, he... disappeared. I never discovered what had happened to him, but we had failed.”

Rarity stared at the flame as she felt her own tears try to burst through. “S-so... you mean to tell me... it's your fault I lost my father? The reason my mother became so harsh? THE REASON SWEETIE BELLE HAS BECOME SO COLD?! That there is no way to fix this?!”

“Y-yes... I... I'm sorry,” the mare whispered as she looked away from the young princess. “I... there is nothing I can say or do, Rarity. I have wronged you in ways that no pony should ever be forced to endure. All I can say is, I'm sorry. I will do all in my power to make right what I can, but... your sister and your mother... the ponies they were... are gone. Forever.”

Rarity stared at the elder unicorn, her hooves trembling as rage boiled within her. “You... I... how can... AGHHHH!” she finally screamed before she turned and ran into the surrounding tree line, leaving the wounded mare behind.

Twilight slowly flipped through the old journal, focused on each word. She was so lost in thought that she failed to hear the door open behind her. She screamed like a banshee when she felt something suddenly tug on her tail.

“AHHHHHH! Who, what, Spike?” the avatar asked as she stared down at the dragon, from her new spot upside down and lodged in the roof.

“Are you okay?” Spike asked with a cocked eyebrow.

“I-I'm fine. You merely startled me. What is- ahhh!” she shrieked as she fell from the roof, landing on the ground in a heap. “Owie...”

“I just wanted to know how things were going,” he mumbled as he looked at the book. “You've been in here for hours.”

“Ugh...” the alicorn grumbled as she got to her hooves and glanced down at the little dragon with a smile. “It's going well. This book is quite fascinating, whoever this Ursa pony was must have been brilliant. But...” she trailed off as she let out a sigh.

“Whats wrong?”

“I found the spell Trixie used. I... I can't use a spell like that. I won't,” she said firmly with a stomp of her hoof.

“Why? What's wrong with it?”

“It's... it enslaves the creature. Shatters its mind, crushes its spirit. I won't make something endure that,” she muttered as she flipped another page. “I won't destroy one realm to protect another.”

“What are you going to do, then?”

“I don't know,” she mumbled. “I can try, maybe? Perhaps the changelings? They seemed... intelligent. I might be able to negotiate terms with them. There is a spell to bring multiple ponies into the realm, so I should be able to bring the others with me. At least I hope.”

“Oh. Ummm, anything I can do to help?” the dragon asked nervously.

“Yes, here,” she said as she dropped a list into his claws. “Tell the others I need those. According to this spell I should be able to bring up to five other ponies with me. I'm going to limit it to just three though. Better safe than sorry. I'm going to do some more studying, however. Please tell the others I should be ready soon.”

The dragon nodded before running off, closing the door behind him. A few moments later Twilight blinked. “Wait a moment. We're in the clouds, how was he... ugh, not now. Focus. Research now, dragon pestering later.”

Sweetie hummed softly to herself as she brushed her pony-sized doll's hair. “Don't worry Rarity, we'll soon be together, forever. I'll capture the avatar and then you'll come to me. Shhhhh, no need to cry. No pony will ever hurt you again,” she said delicately as she gently began to brush the tail. “We'll sing, and play games, and be the best sisters ever. Every pony will be so jealous of how close we are!” she giggled gleefully.

There was a gentle tapping on the door to her room. “Your highness?”

“What is it?” she growled angrily.

“W-we're almost to Cherry Bloom Rise. You asked us to alert you,” the stallion outside whimpered softly.

“Oh, good, good. Have the other four ships disposed of. I'll have no more need of their services.” she said as she slowly got up, giving her doll one last kiss on the cheek before walking towards the door.

“D-disposed of?” he asked before letting out a shriek as the door was suddenly opened.

“Yes, disposed of. Burn them, sink them, send them somewhere else. I don't really care, just get rid of them. I'm not going to need a big useless fleet for a task like this.”

“I... I could send t-them t-to help the war efforts?” the pony asked nervously.

“I said I don't care. Just deal with them before I deal with you!” she hissed angrily as she walked to the deck of her ship and glanced out. A few miles away she could see the large city built near the sea and, just barely within view, the farms on the other side. She let out a little giggle. “Soon, dear sister. We'll be together again. I just need to gather a few helpers...”

The stallion nervously looked to a nearby pegasus. “Go tell the other ships to get out of here, quick. If they stick around the princess they'll wish they were on the front lines.”

“Aye, captain,” the pegasus said as she took to the air and flew away as fast as her wings could take her.

Rarity slowly walked back towards the fire, glancing nervously at the large unicorn sleeping besides it. She took a seat and shook her head. “Oh aunty... I'm sorry...” she whispered as she glanced up at the clear skies. “I just... you're wrong,” she muttered. “Even if she's different. That's still my sister. I know she's in there. I'll find her...”

Celestia didn't move, only occasionally letting out gentle snores. Rarity chuckled as she moved over and began changing the wraps. After a few moments the movements awoke the elder pony. “Huh? Niece? You came back?”

“Of course, you old tea guzzler. I couldn't very well leave you alone,” the unicorn said as she gently patted the wounded mare's side. “They aren't bleeding any more and they seem to be closing up nicely. We can probably... wait a moment. What's... IT WAS YOU!” Rarity shrieked as she tore a kazoo out from her aunt's cloak. “I should have known!”

“No! It's not what it looks like! I thought, I thought it was an ancient heirloom!” Celestia lied as she wiggled about. “Give it baaaack!”

“No,” Rarity said with a hmph as she tucked it into her dress. “Maybe if you're good, you can have it back later. But you've been very bad. No wonder I kept hearing this on the ship. I thought I was going mad!”

“It was just a little-”

“No,” the princess snapped as she turned and started walking. “To think I felt bad for you. You should be ashamed! You're a grown pony!”

“Come on, please?” Celestia asked as she slowly got to her hooves. “It's my little kazoo, Tutu.”

Rarity stopped, mid step. “You actually named your kazoo. Okay, that's it. No. You may not have it back until you prove that you are a responsible and grown mare who won't use it to cause trouble. Now come along, we're going.”

“Going? Where to? If we head north, to Earth Kingdom, they'll kill us.”

“And if we head to one of our outposts, they'll take us to Sweetie Belle.” The two ponies looked at each other a moment.

“Earth Kingdom.” The two said in unison before they turned to the north and began walking, the elder pony occasionally limping.

The sun slowly dipped behind the mountains as the avatar gathered near a campfire. Twilight's friends, the Earth Kingdom representatives and a number of Wonderbolts, including Spitfire and Soarin, had gathered around. She took a deep breath as she looked around. “Okay, so is everypony ready?”

“Yes. Are you sure about this, Avatar?” Spitfire asked gently. “If you feel at all-”

“Oh, stop being such a worry wart,” Filthy said with a roll of his eyes. “We'll be fine, what's the worst that could happen?”

“I'm ready,” Twilight said as she held out her hooves. “Rainbow, Spitfire, Filthy, let's form a circle.” The two pegasi each took one of the alicorn's hooves and one of the earth pony's. The avatar's horn glowed as she slowly cast the spell, a small bag of ingredients being tossed in the fire. Within moments the campfire and ponies around the four disappeared and they reappeared in a strange new world filled with a fog as thick as pea soup.

“... Are those peas floating about?” Rainbow asked as she wiggled her hoof about. “Ugh... it tastes and smells horrible here. I think I got a noodle in my nose.” She put a hoof to one nostril and blew with the other.

“That's the spirit world for you,” Twilight said with a roll of her eyes. “Come on, we're going to have to spend a lot of time looking if we want to find the changelings. Be careful, you never know what coul-”

“HEY! CHANGELINGS!” Filthy yelled as he looked about. “GET YOUR FLANKS OUT HERE! THE AVATAR NEEDS TO SPEAK WITH YOU, YOU GIANT BUGS!”

“Are you insane?!” the alicorn snapped as she glared at the stallion. “What did I just say? Don't... don't...” she trailed off as a loud buzzing filled the air. One by one small black blurs moved through the mist, just far enough out they were blurs, and surrounded them.

“You called, Avatar?” an angry voice hissed from the distance. A powerful buzzing filled the air as the winds swirled around them, making the fog dissipate as the ponies were showered in small peas and bite-sized noodles.

Standing in front of them was a tall, black pony like being. She had holes throughout its body and a long, crooked horn on its head. As she stood her bug-like green wings buzzed wildly through the air. Her tail and mane were made of a rigid, but thin, green material that didn't move in the winds and had holes as well. Her minions were much like her, only small and lacking tails or manes. Dozens of the creatures surrounded them as she moved closer.

“Chrysalis, Queen of the changelings,” Twilight whispered before shaking her head. “Right. Down to business. I've come to ask your aid.”

“Excuse me?” the large changeling asked as a grin formed on her lips. “Whatever would the great and powerful avatar need my help for?”

“To fight off the Water Nation, I-” Twilight started but was quickly interrupted.

“Hello, madam,” Filthy said as he moved forward. “My name is Filthy Rich, but you may call me Rich. I represent the Earth Kingdom. We've come seeking your aid in destroying the Water Nation once and for all. Now, I'm not sure what it is you creature's like, but I'm sure we can come to an agreement. The Earth Kingdom is a very rich country and I assure you, whatever you need, we can get.”

Chrysalis burst into laughter, moving a hoof over her mouth. “You wish for me to help you destroy one of your little countries? Oh, this is too rich.”

“See? It's just Rich, not filthy,” the earth pony said proudly.

“Silence fool. Very well,” the changeling said as she snickered. “I will help you.”

“Really?” Twilight asked as she smiled and took a step forward. “Thank you! How can I ever repay you?”

“Oh, there is no need, Avatar,” the changeling queen said as her horn and eyes began to glow green. “My cost is simple and I have no qualms about taking it!” she hissed as she charged forward. She dove into Twilight as their bodies molded for a second. The four ponies disappeared from the spirit world, each rolling away from the fire as the onlookers stared.

“Did it work?” Soarin asked as he moved to Spitfire's side.

“No! Stop h-grk!” the pegasus mare cried out as a sudden burst of wind sent her flying.

“Such power!” Twilight yelled as she held up her hooves. “Oh yes. You wish for me to destroy one pitiful little empire? Bwa ha ha ha! Easy! But first!” her eyes glanced around at the now frightened masses. “First I will bring my own empire to bare!” Fire shot from her horn and encircled the ponies as they screamed. “Yes! Tremble! For now is the time of the changelings!” she yelled as her horn shot forward and green slime enveloped a number of the fleeing ponies, trapping them. “All will be sacrificed and fall before the might... of... huh?” The alicorn turned around as three shadows suddenly towered over her.

“Get out,” Rainbow growled as she pounded her hoof.

“Of our friend,” Pinkie said as she glared.

“Now!” Fluttershy snapped as she unleashed the full brunt of her stare on the poor mare.

“Hmph,” Twilight said as she rolled her eyes. “What could you three pathetic little ponies possibly do to me? I possess the body and power of the most powerful- AYYYYYYYEEEEEEE!” her screams echoed through the night air as the onlookers quickly covered their eyes.

Twilight whimpered as the glow of Fluttershy's healing moved along her body. “W-wassh all dat neshasharry?” the avatar asked through puffed up cheeks.

“Sorry, Twilight,” Rainbow said as she rubbed her hoof nervously through her multi-colored mane. “We might have gone just a teensy bit over board.”

“Nonsense,” Filthy said as he let out a chuckle. “Such raw power! That was just one of them! Imagine if we had an army of those changelings!” the earth pony said as he burst into laughter. “Sure, we need to learn how to control them first, but details! With that we can destroy the Water Nation once and for all!”

“Soarin,” Spitfire said with a sigh.

“On it,” the pegasus said as he drop bucked the earth pony in the back of the head. No pony objected as Filthy crashed to the ground, unconsious. “Now, I believe it may be best for you and your friends to leave before rocks for brains here wakes up,” Soarin said as he glanced to the avatar. “I'm really sorry you got dragged into any of this. I never would have brought him back if I had known he'd be so... that.”

“Now pwobem,” Twilight said before cringing and rubbing her face. “Did yah havta hid sho hawd?”

“I said I was sorry,” Rainbow said with another cough. “It's not like I pile-drived you like another certain pony. I don't know where Pinkie learned to fight like that...”

Fluttershy eeked as she focused more closely on healing the puffyness. Spike suddenly found the floor fascinating as he avoided looking at the ponies. Pinkie gave the two a little hidden wink.

“Now, we have a special surprise for you, as thanks for all you've done,” Soarin said as he walked outside. A few moments later and the others followed. Outside was a very small airship, designed only for a hoofful of ponies. The balloon was long and narrow and the ship was made of black oak and sanded completely smooth, with a griffon figurehead. Supplies were stacked up in the back and small wind sails were latched onto the side.

“Woooooooooow,” Rainbow said as she hopped into it. “This must have taken forever to make, it's for us?” She rubbed a hoof along the smooth wood as she let out a whistle.

“Yep. As much as I'd love to take the credit, it wasn't just us air benders who made it,” Soarin said as he made a gesture to all the gathered ponies. “Every pony here chipped in to prepare this for you, Avatar. It was the least we could do,” he turned and smiled to her. “Please remember, no matter what happens, that we're all here rooting for you. Though you may not be a master air bender yet, we know you'll one day succeed in your goals. Besides, with such a talented air bending master to teach you, I'm sure you'll pick it up quickly.”

Rainbow snickered as she waved a hoof. “Aw shucks, you're too kind... feel free to go on.”

“Heh, he's right though. Once you get an earth bending master to teach you, you'll be ready in no time,” Spitfire said as she moved forward to help the others into the ship. As it began to lift into the sky she yelled out. “Remember, no matter what happens! We're all behind you, no matter what! Okay everypony! Let's let her know how we feel!”

The ground practically shook as the cheers rang out into the heavens. “AVATAR! AVATAR! AVATAR! CHICKENWINGS THE AVATAR! YEAHHHHHHHHHH!” Hats, saddles and a few potatos were tossed into the air as the ponies cheered. Twilight smiled, despite the pain in her face, as she waved goodbye.

Below, Filthy groaned as he wobbled out of the tent. “What? Who? W-where's th-” A firm buck to the side of the head dropped the pony back into dream land.

Chapter 3: Expeditious Flights

The wind blew through the streets of Cherry Bloom Rise as the dozens of food stands stood side by side, ponies yelling out their wares. A large blue unicorn stallion, garbed in glimmering bronze armor with a flowing red cape, walked through the streets. His head was held high as he gazed about, glancing from merchant to merchant. He stopped and posed dramatically, his golden mane billowing in the wind, before walking once again. He smirked as ponies stared at him in fear and jealousy.

He strode to a nearby banana stand and grabbed one with his magic, lifting it up and inspecting it. He hmphed before glancing to the earth pony who sold it, a bright yellow stallion with a black mane. “Interesting wares. I trust you bring only the finest to market?” he sneered.

“Y-yes sir, Commander Shining Speare,” the stallion squeaked. “W-whatever isn't donated to the war effort, of course.”

“Good,” the unicorn mumbled as he peeled it and then took a bite. He spit it out and shook his head. “Is this really all you little earth ponies can do? I thought this was all you were good for,” he snapped as he tossed the banana onto the earth pony's head and walked off.

He soon came upon a small cherry stand, marked at a bit each. He hmphed and reached out to take one.

“One bit each, a dozen for ten bits,” a voice piped out from behind the stand. He glanced behind to see another yellow earth pony, this one a young mare.

Speare rolled his eyes and picked up a cherry, letting out a yelp as his hoof was smacked.

“Ah said one bit each. No free samples,” the earth pony said as she put her front hooves on the stand and glared up at him. Her big red ribbon moved slightly in the wind, clipped tightly into her red mane.

“You dare to strike me?” Speare growled as his eyes narrowed on the mare. “Do you have any idea who I am?!”

“Yah can't be anypony too important if yah can't even afford one bit for ah cherry,” the mare said matter-of-factly as she stared up at him.

“You... you... dirty little mud swaddler! What is your name?!” Speare growled as put his own hooves on the counter.

“Flowerbloom, of dah Cherry family,” she answered.

“Well, little Flowerbloom, apparently your parents didn't teach you well enough,” he hissed. “The only reason you and your little hornless kind are allowed to work the fields is because of the graciousness of your unicorn sup-” He let out a yelp as the mare shoved his hooves back and he fell flat on his face, slamming hard into the wooden table. He rolled off and onto the ground with a groan.

“Don't think jus' cause yah got a horn and a bit ah fancah bendin' yah can just come and mess up mah stand,” the earth pony said as she peered over the edge of the stand. “Now, if yah want a cherry dat will be a bit or ten bits for a dozen.”

Speare slowly pulled himself up, rubbing the side of his aching face. “You... you little worm chewer!” His horn glowed as water began to fly up from the nearby stands and gather above his head. “Apparently you still have a lot to learn about your betters!” Ponies began ducked behind stands and cried out in fear as they watched with wide eyes.

“Ah ain't never ate a worm and yah ain't one ah mah betters,” Flowerbloom snapped. “If yah want meh tah drop yah again, fine.”

Speare growled as he took a step forward, right as the mare tapped her back hoof on the ground. A bit of dirt slipped out from under the stallions hoof, tripping him as he crashed down onto the stand's counter top again. This time Flowerbloom gripped him by the horn and lifted his head up, before slamming it twice into the wood. The stallion rolled over, his eyes little swirls.

“What have you done?” one of the other merchants yelled as he shook his head. “He was a water bender! Are you trying to get us all executed?”

“Ah, relax,” another pony said with a roll of her eyes. “Ain't the first time one ah them benders tried throwin' their weight around. Far as ah'm concerned, I didn't see nothin'. Serves the lot ah them right.”

“You say that now, but just wait,” the stallion said as he glanced down at the groaning, but unmoving, commander. “It wouldn't be the first time a few earth ponies have gone missing. The benders watch out for their own more th-”

“Shush!” one of the ponies yelled as the entire crowd went silent. The cause was easy to see as eight unicorns, in black armor, came around the corner. The merchants made themselves as small as possible as the unicorns made their way to the small cherry stand and stood, side-by-side, before it.

Flowerbloom gulped as she looked around nervously. “Uh oh...” she squeaked.

Speare groaned as he got to his hooves, shaking his head. “Y-yes. Soldiers. A-arrest this mare,” he said as he wobbled from side to side. “She... she attacked me. Dah lil mud... coddler... she...”

“Did she now?” asked a mare from behind him.

“Yes! She... she...” he trailed off as he turned and saw the unicorn behind him. “Y-your highness!”

“Tell me, little... commander,” Sweetie said as her eyes glowed with a purple light. “Did Flowerbloom attack you?”

“Huh? Yes! She...” he trailed off again. “You... you know her name?”

“Oh, of course I do. Don't you know the names of all your dear best friends?”

Speare stood stock still as the color drained from his face. “F-friend? B-best friend?” he squeaked as he found it suddenly very difficult to breath. “S-she's... she's one of your... i-is it g-getting r-really hot in here?” Sweat began billowing down his face as he struggled to breathe.

“... I see, very well.” The unicorn glanced to one of the guards. “Have him dehorned and thrown in an earth pony battalion.”

“What? NO!” he shrieked as he backed away. “Anything but that, please! H-have mercy your highness, oh please, I-I'm sorry, it'll never happen again, p-please d-don't turn me into a c-common earth pony!”

Flowerbloom sighed as the commander was grabbed by two guards and dragged away. “Sweetie Belle, ah don't think yah should do that. He was a bit of ah jerk, but cuttin' off his horn is a bit much,” she said firmly. The guards, once standing stoic, cringed at the mare's disapproval of their princess' orders. They turned to the young white unicorn, nervously awaiting her response as the color began to drain from their faces.

“Ugh, fiiiiine,” Sweetie said with a roll of her eyes. “Just strip him of his rank then. He can keep his horn.” The guard ponies let out a collective breath as Speare was led away.

“So, what brings yah here? Lookin' for some ah the best cherry's this side ah the capital?” Flowerbloom asked with a big wide smile.

“No, actually,” a wicked grin spread along her lips. “I've come here for you,” she paused for a moment, “and possibly a few of your mother's cherry pies. They just don't make them like that at the capital.”

“Oh, ummmm...” the young earth pony looked around. “Ah'm kinda workin' right now. I still got a lot of cherries to-”

“We'll take the lot of them,” Sweetie said as she motioned to the guards. “Get the cherries to the ships, get a bag of bits and take the stand back to their farm. Now, come?”

Flowerbloom nodded nervously. “Oh, well... errr, in that case... coming...” she mumbled as she trotted up besides Sweetie. The two walked side by side through the streets, the unicorn happily gabbing as they went.

As the two mares disappeared around the corner, a small gray pegasus let out a sigh of relief as she wiped some sweat from her yellow mane. “See? It all works out sometimes. Maybe we-” A moment later Speare came galloping down the street, pursued by two of the guards. He spent too much time looking behind himself that he failed to see the cart in front of the pegasus. He shrieked as he slammed head first into it, toppling it over and sending its pastry delights across the ground. “My muffins!” the pegasus yelled.

A light brown earth pony standing besides the pegasus lightly patted her back. “There there. I'm sure it won't happen a third time.”

Twilight sprawled out on the bottom of their airship, on top of a custion. “I can't believe how nice this is compared to the blimps,” she said with a giggle. “It practically flies itself!”

“Yeah, it does,” Rainbow mumbled as she curled up in the back. “Don't forget, we still need to practice your air bending later. Just after I get a few more hours to nap...”

Fluttershy was curled up on her back, a small beam of sunlight warming her stomach as she practically purred. “Mmmmmm...”

“It's nice we don't have to run about any more,” Spike mumbled as he rummaged through the supplies. “Would have been nice if they had given us some gem stones.”

“Yeah, we can just relax,” the avatar mumbled as she spread out her wings. “Just fly to the capital, find a nice trainer and start practicing. No more needing to worry about the Water Nation attacking us.”

“Yep! Kinda like that group down there,” Pinkie said as she peered over the edge of the ship's rim.

“Mmmm hmmm,” Twilight mumbled. After a few moments her eyes went wide. “What?”

“Oh yeah, there's about ten of the Water Nation soldiers down there surrounding some poor unicorn.”

The alicorn darted to the edge of the ship, peering over. True to the earth pony's words, a small unicorn mare, pulling a large cart, was surrounded on all sides by soldiers. “Quick, we're going down!”

“What? Why?” Spike groaned as he climbed up to look over the edge. “There's like ten of them. I don't think you actually need to- ahhh!” he shrieked as Pinkie pulled on a cord and adjusted the sails. The ship began to descend rapidly.

“Okay, let's... huh?” Rainbow said as something small zipped past her head. “What was-” another one nicked her ear. “What the buck are they... oh hay.” An arrow lodged into the wood. “They have arrows, pull up, pull up!” she yelled as she started to crawl out of the ship.

“My tail is twitching!” Pinkie shrieked as they all heard a soft pop from above.

Air began escaping out the top as the ship descended rapidly. Arrows flew through the air at them, some creating more holes in the balloon, as the ponies clung to whatever they could. The bottom finally slammed into the ground, the wood shattering from the force. Ponies, supplies and a dragon were sent hurtling as the balloon finally, in one final act of betrayal, burst into flames.

“Owie,” Twilight whimpered as she stretched out her wings. “Everypony okay?” she asked as she looked about. Spike was buried head first into the ground, though Pinkie was helping him out. The remaining two ponies were on the ground, swirls in their eyes. “Well at least every- eep!” her hair stood on end as an arrow lodged by her hoof. She then growled as she turned to the Water Nation ponies.

“You! Surrender! You are hereby prisoners of the Water Nation! If you resist you'll-”

The alicorn growled as a fireball formed above her head. With a single nod she sent the ball of flame at the hooves of the pegasus. She bared her teeth as she began stepping towards them. “I'm the avatar. That was a VERY special gift from some VERY special friends of mine. If you want to try to fight me, you better have a lot more than a few bows and arrows.”

The pony gulped as he took a step back. He turned to his comrades. “Okay, you all know what this means. RUN!”

Twilight stared in bewilderment as the ponies galloped away, too shocked to pursue. “They... what? But... Wh- AHH!” she screamed as she was suddenly tackle-glomped by the unicorn mare. She was sent toppling back as she stared. “Errrr, hello?”

“Oh thank you thank you thank you so much!” the unicorn said between sobs. “A-ah thought ah was a goner, oh thank you! Ah never should have left, ah was so, so, so stupid! Thank you!” The pony got off and brushed dirt off the alicorn. “Ohhh! Ah'm so sorry! Are yah really the avatar? As in the one an' only? Oh wow yah have horns and wings! Yah must be! Thank yah so much for saving me!”

“Errr, no problem,” Twilight blushed as she looked up at the red coated mare. “My name's Twilight and these are my friends. Errr, when they get up.”

“Oh, right! Mah name is Rosebush, a pleasure,” the mare said as she shook the avatar's hoof so fiercely the alicorn was almost lifted off the ground.

“I-I-I see,” she squeaked. “Well, we need to gather our supplies and...” she looked back to the ship and groaned. “Start walking all the way to Fillydelphia...”

“Oh? Yah'all headed to the capital? Well, if yah need some supplies ah'm sure my family would be more than happy to thank yah,” she paused a moment as she glanced at her cart. “Though we don't really have a lot. What with all the raids and trade routes all being cut off. Though if you're headed to the capital, maybe we can come with yah!”

“Come with? I'm not sure wha- ack!” the alicorn found herself tugged to the cart.

“No need tah worry, your avatar-ness! Just sit back and relax, Ah'll help your minions gather your things and we can go! Yes yes!” the mare said as she happily trotted off.

“But I'm not, they're not, what?” Twilight squeaked as she looked down in confused. Dozens of flowers were strung up under her in tight rows.

“Your family's been doing well,” Sweetie said as she trotted through the fields filled to the brim with cherries. Dozens of earth ponies were walking through, bucking the fruits down and carrying baskets of them.

“Yeah, dad's been workin' his flank off tah get this harvest to be our best yet,” Flowerbloom said as she gave a small wave to some of the helping hooves. “He's even been lettin' me sell down at the market, alone, eva since the sun came up.”

“Fascinating,” the unicorn mumbled as she glanced around. “Though, I'll never understand why he'd stick to such meager surroundings. Even if he is an earth pony, as one of our greatest decorated soldiers he could have had so much more. Never had to toil in the mud like a common... errr, no offense.”

The earth pony rolled her eyes. “Yeah, he could be back at the capital. Listenin' to all the benders talkin' about how lucky we are a lowly earth pony is allowed tah grace their presence.”

Sweetie moved over and gently bumped their cutie marks together, the earth ponie's a small red circle behind a wheelbarrow. “Now, you know I didn't mean it like that. You have always been one of my best friends and one of the few ponies I trust with my life. Which is actually the main reason I've come. Now-”

“Flowerbloom!” a powerful voice rung out. Standing on the porch of the nearby old wooden house was a very light yellow earth pony mare. Her mane was very dark red, layered and flowing so that it was almost as large as her. “What are yah doin' home so early? Did somethin' happen at the market?” the pony galloped forward and gripped the younger mare by the shoulders and looked her over. “Yah didn't get in anotha fight, did yah?”

“No, moooooom,” Flowerbloom grumbled. “I just had a visit from an old friend. Yah remember Sweetie Belle, right?”

The elder pony turned and gasped. “Well, bless mah stars, if it isn't the lil princess herself.” Before Sweetie could defend herself, the mare was on her. Cheeks were pinched and hair was tussled. “My oh my, you're growin' up to be a nice pretty lady, jus' like mah dear lil Flowerbloom. So, what do we owe this honor?”

“Wet mah scheeks go,” Sweetie said, trying not to whimper at the powerful grip of the earth pony. As soon as they were released she rubbed her cheeks. “I actually have some things I wish to discuss with all of you, Mrs. Jubilee. Is Mr. Fizzy around?”

“Well, he's out in the field right now, but he'll be here for supper. Now that I look at you, you're naught but skin and bones! Tut tut,” the earth pony shook her head in disappointment. “We're gonna have tah get yah a real supper, ah insist.”

“But Mrs. Jubilee, we-”

“Not another word, Sweetiecakes. Ah won't hear of it,” the mare said as she turned about and trotted towards the house. “Now you and lil Flowerbloom have fun and I'll call yah in when suppers ready, not a second sooner.” The door slammed shut behind her as she disappeared inside.

“Sorry about that,” Flowerbloom said as she rubbed her head. “Mom's always excited wheneva we got guests. You're in for a right hum dinger of a meal.”

The unicorn nodded, wiping a bit of drool from her mouth. “Oh, I imagine so. I remember some of our sleep overs. I guess I should tell you why I'm here, though. I need your help.”

“Mah help? Whateva for?”

“I need your help tah, err, to capture the avatar.”

“What?!” the earth pony froze as her eyes went wide. “W-what makes yah think ah know the first thing about takin' down a pony like dat? I've been hearin' all the stories since the sun gone and come out!”

“I know, I know,” Sweetie said with a chuckle. “But I know you would be invaluable. You've been training in the same anti-bender training as your father. That's all the avatar is, just another bender.”

“A-ah don't know. It seems like-”

“I'm going to get Scootaloo's help too.”

A grin slowly spread along the earth pony's face. “Tell yah what, if yah can get daddy tah say yes, then ah'm in.”

“I knew I could count on you!” the unicorn said as she hugged the mare. “Cutie mark crusader avatar hunters?”

Flowerbloom chuckled as she nodded. “Cutie mark crusader avatar hunters.”

“So, great and powerful avatar,” Rainbow said with a smirk. “Your minion would love to inform you that we've almost arrived. If you would be so kind as to grace her with your ear for a moment.” The five ponies, and little dragon, were walking across a long dirt road. Fields of flowers surrounded them on all sides and, as they crossed over another hill, they saw it.

A small town, known as Daisy Hill, stood out from the land. It was surrounded on all sides by fields of flowers, like the petals of a dandelion. Ponies moved through the town, all unicorns or pegasi, weaving between the wooden shacks. Suddenly a loud voice split the air. “ROSEBUSH! She's alive!”

Instantly ponies galloped out from the town, surrounding the group and hugging the mare. “Don't ever do that again! You could have been killed! Whatever possessed you to do such a thing?” a large, old unicorn stallion asked angrily.

“Ah'm sorry pa. I couldn't just sit around here any longer! We wait much longer and we won't be able tah ship a darn thing.”

“You shouldn't have gone out there,” a voice called out as the crowd got quiet. Two light yellow earth ponies stepped forward. “We can't protect you out there.”

“Errr, sorry,” Rosebush squeaked as she poked her hooves together. “But, I have good news! The avatar has come!” she said as she motioned to the alicorn. “And her minions!”

“Errr, hi,” Twilight said as she raised a hoof to wave.

The two earth ponies exchanged looks before large grins formed on their faces. They galloped forward and bowed their heads. “Well, I'll be,” the first one said, a pony with a red and white striped mane.

“As I live and breathe, the avatar,” said the second, a near exact twin of the other, except he had a big bushy red mustache. “Allow us to introduce ourselves. He's Flim.”

“He's Flam,” said the one lacking the facial hair.

“We're the world famous Flim Flam brothers!” the two said in unison as they stood back up. “Protectors of Daisy Hill and master earth benders, a pleasure.”

“Please, come, come,” Flim said as he took her right hoof.

“Yes, come, let us show you around!” Flam said as he grabbed the other hoof and together they dragged her off.

“Yeah, fine!” Rainbow called out after them with a roll of her eyes. “We'll just sit back here, we're fine. Not like we have anywhere to be or anything!”

“By the stars,” Sweetie groaned as she rubbed her stomach. “I haven't eaten a meal like that in... in years.”

“Well, yah know ah can't have no special friend a Flowerbloom's leave here empty stomached, now can ah?” Jubilee asked as she leaned back in her chair. The entire group, including the ten unicorn guards, farm hands and the Cherry family, were all sitting at a large oak table set up outside. “Ain't nothin' better than a good meal after a hard days work.”

“Indeed,” a large light brown earth pony said as he picked at his teeth with a small pick. “Now, yah all had a reason for comin' out here, correct? Though ah wouldn't blame yah comin' out tah sample soma my sweet Jubilee's cherry pie. If ever there was somethin' worth goin' to war for.”

“Actually, there is something,” Sweetie said before glancing back to the older mare. “Though if we could get some of those pies to go, I'd be in debt to you. I wish to take Flowerbloom with me on a special mission for the Water Nation. Something that could affect the entirety of the nation, Mr. Fizzy.”

The stallion froze as he put his hooves on the table. “What exactly is this mission?”

“We're pursuing the avatar,” Sweetie said proudly. “We believe she's traveling through the Earth Kingdom.”

Fizzy shook his head. “Ah... with all do respect, your highness, ah have to respectfully say no.”

“What?!” Sweetie snapped as she stood on her back hooves, eyes glowing purple.

“Ah came here tah settle away from all the war efforts,” the pony said as he shook his head. “Ah fought long and hard, lost many good friends and family out there. Ah did everything I could tah ensure mah child wasn't-”

“But she isn't really your child, is she?!” Sweetie hissed as her eyes glowed with a malevolent light. “You adopted her and you think you can just deny what-”

“Sweetie Belle!” Flowerbloom hissed as she glared at her friend. “They're jus' as much mah parents as Nightmare Moon is yours!”

The unicorn froze for a moment before shaking her head. “Y-you're right. I'm sorry, I... huh?” she looked at her guard, all of which were hiding under the table. “Just what are you doing?”

“Dropped my spoon, your highness.”

“Dropped my fork.”

“Hiding from your ang- err, I mean dropped my knife.”

Sweetie rolled her eyes before turning back to the stallion. “Please, reconsider. You've trained her in your arts. If anypony can help me capture the avatar, it's her. I need her help.”

The stallion rubbed his chin as he stared at the young princess before letting out a sigh. “Flowerbloom? Do yah really wanna go?”

The earth pony poked her hooves together before nervously nodding.

“Very well. Ah... ah guess ah'll allow it. Flowerbloom, you're a growin' up. It wouldn't be right for meh tah stop yah from doin' what yah need to. Just promise me you'll be sa-oof!” the stallion groaned as he suddenly found himself glomped by two small mares.

“Thanks daddy!” Flowerbloom squeaked.

“Thanks Mr. Fizzy!” Sweetie squealed.

“Yes,” Jubilee said through gritted teeth as she got up. She grabbed Fizzy by the collar and pulled him away from the two. “Allow me a moment to speak with my dear husband.” The stallion let out a yelp as he was dragged into the other room.

“Come on, let's go pack!” Flowerbloom squealed as she galloped off.

Rainbow hmphed as she lounged about on one of the wooden huts. The moon was high in the sky now, so a number of torches glowed through the town. In the center of the community, tables had been set up and ponies were performing to the best of their ability for Twilight. The rainbow-maned pegasus just watched from a distance.

“So, why aren't you at the party?” a voice called up from the ground. The pegasus looked over the edge of the roof and saw Spike, sitting against the hut.

“Didn't feel like it, not really in the mood,” Rainbow grumbled.

“Oh?” Spike asked with a chuckle. “So it has nothing at all to do with the fact that Twilight is getting all the attention, not the amazing air bending master, Rainbow?”

The pegasus' cheeks turned red as she shook her head. “That has nothing to do with it! I just... something feels off. The entire... thing.”

“What about it? The avatar scared off some of the Water Nation soldiers and they're treating her like a hero.”

“Yeah, but... it just... I... ugh. Why were they even here?”

“Probably, I don't know, because there is a war going on?” Spike reminded her with a roll of his eyes. “A small town filled with food, with only two earth benders to protect it? If I was going to attack a town, this is the one I'd choose.”

“Yeah, but... ugh,” Rainbow shook her head. “I just... how did those two keep it safe? Sure, I can wipe out a few water benders, but...”

“But you're so awesome that nopony else could possibly be able to do it too?”

“Yeah! No, well, err... ugh,” she grumbled as she got to her hooves. “Stop making sense. I just... I'm going to go for a midnight flight. Clear my head. I'll be back later.” She took to the air before the dragon could object.

Rainbow shook her head as she flew into the heavens, dancing around the clouds until her wings were tired and sweat coated her mane. “I'm not angry about not getting attention,” she grumbled to herself. “Spike has no idea what he's talking about. There's nothing at all wrong with knowing I'm extremely awesome. I don't care if others know it too.” The pegasus dropped down onto a small cloud as she let out an annoyed sigh. “Is he right? Is that why I feel so upset? Am I letting arrogance get in the way of... pfft. Yeah right. Me? Arrogant? Hah!”

The mare jumped into the air and spread out her wings. “It's only arrogance if you're not actually awesome. I'll show them, I'll find all ten of those soldiers and take them down myself!” she said confidently as she glanced about. “It can't be that hard to find them. They... they... oh you have got to be kidding me,” she grumbled as she face hooved. Less than a mile away she could see the glow of a camp fire. “Confident little ponies, aren't they?”

The pegasus took off like a bolt, streaking through the air so fast the clouds burst around her. As she came closer her eyes saw a neat stack of the Water Nation armor, stacked by a campfire. A wicked grin spread across her lips as she adjusted her path and dove straight at them.

“Do you hear something?” one of the ponies asked his comrade as a whistling sound pierced the air. “I w-” he was cut off as the campsite exploded outwards, the winds toppling over tents, armor, the ponies and extinguished their fire.

Rainbow stood in the middle of the ruined campsite, smirking as she held her wings out. “Okay you Water Nation wimps! Let's see what you got! If you thought the avatar was terrifying, just wait until you see me!”

“What's going on?!” one of the ponies yelled as he tried to light one of their torches, but as soon as it was up he was sent back by a powerful blow from the pegasus, her wind putting out the flame.

“Get the bows! It's the bright blue bl-grrkk!” another soldier went down from a well placed kick.

“Hah!” Rainbow jeered as she sent another flying into the air. “You fight worse than Twilight flies! Come on, give me a ch-GAH!” The ground suddenly shot up under the mare, slamming into her stomach and knocking her over. A moment later a torrent of blows struck her from above before finally crashing her skull into the ground.

After a few moments a torch was lit and one of the ponies moved towards the mare, lifting her eyelids up. “Yup, she's out,” the pony said as he pulled his hoof back. He then looked towards the shadows. “About time, Flim.”

“It's Flam,” the mustached pony said as he walked over towards them. “I would have been here sooner, but we had to keep the avatar distracted. What was this about?”

“No idea,” one of the ponies grumbled as he grabbed a thin dagger. “I thought you said you'd keep anypony from coming out at night. This is all starting to look bad. We signed on for this to steal from village ponies, not benders. Especially not the avatar.” He raised the dagger over Rainbow.

“Hold on!” Flam snapped as he stomped a hoof down, the ground moving up to shield the mare as the dagger was thrust down. “She's helpless. Defenseless. But, best of all, one of the avatars little friends.”

“What do you have in mind?”

Flam moved over to run a hoof down the unconscious mares wing. “Oh, isn't it obvious? This is perfect. Our ticket to the big time, ladies and gentlemen. And the avatar is going to lead the way.” The earth pony began to laugh. After a few seconds, the others joined him. He then raised a hoof, “Okay, enough laughter. We still have a lot to discuss, how have the raids on...”

Sweetie smiled as she glanced to her guards, each one holding a few cases. Most of which were food. “Are you sure you're okay giving us this much?” she asked Jubilee.

“Of course,” the earth pony said with a sigh, her arms wrapped tightly around Flowerbloom, still refusing to let go. “If mah lil girl is gonna have tah go out in the world by her lonesome, ah wanna make sure she gets a proper meal. None of those war ration things. She's a growin' lass, needs her nutrition so she can grow up nice an' strong like her ma.”

“Ma, it's fine!” Flowerbloom grumbled as she tried climbing from the hold, to no avail. “Ah'm fine, really. Ah'll eat good, proper food, wash behind mah ears an' make sure not tah get hit bah any bendin'. Aside from dah bendin' you're puttin' mah back through!”

“Are you absolutely, positively certain yah wanna go?” Jubilee asked as she finally, but reluctantly, released the mare.

“Ma, ah'll be fine,” the young earth pony said as she stood up to give her mother a kiss on the cheek. “Ah promise. Ah'll be with Sweetie and Scoots the whole time.”

“Ah know...” the elder pony mumbled as she gave a worried glance to Sweetie, before turning back to her child. “Now, go give your father a great big hug before yah go.”

“Okay ma!” Flowerbloom said as she pulled from her mother and ran to the elder stallion. She jumped up and gave him a great big hug. “Bye pa, ah'll miss yah.”

“Ah know,” he mumbled as he hugged his daughter. “Remember, no matter what happens,” he whispered into her ear. “Don't ever let Sweetie make yah do something yah don't want to. You're a Cherry, and we don't take crud from nopony, yah hear?”

The younger mare chuckled as she rolled her eyes. “Oh, don't worry pa. Ah'll be fine, yah just worry too much. Bye!” With a final wave, the mare turned and galloped to Sweetie's side. “So, where tah next?”

“Going to have to get Scootaloo,” the unicorn said with a grin.

“Isn't she at-”

“Yep,” the mare interrupted. “We'll be there in no time. This is going to be just like old times, isn't it?”

“Yup!” the two gave one more cutie mark bump before bursting into giggles as they walked.

Chapter 4: Gathered Hazards

Twilight groaned as she curled into the fetal position. The pain was almost too much to bear. The suffering. The agony. The torment. Never again would she fall for such a ruse, no matter how good it seemed. It felt like a red hot blade through her body. “T-to think... this would be how the avatar meets her end,” she groaned.

“Oh, knock it off,” Spike said with a roll of his eyes. “You just ate too much. I'll never understand how you can all eat those flowers. They are so weak tasting.”

“So... delicious...” the alicorn said with a whimper as she rubbed her tummy. “Couldn't... stop myself...” She heard her pony friends, a few beds away, going through similar problems. “It's not every day you get a feast thrown in your honor...”

“You had plenty of them once we got to Cloudsdale,” the dragon reminded her with a huff. He let out a yelp as he was suddenly gripped in telekinesis and brought over to Twilight's waiting hooves.

“Oh Spikey,” she said as she gave him a tight little squeeze. “Are you jealous?”

“What? No,” he said with a roll of his eyes. “Why would I care about getting a bunch of attention like that? I'm a big tough dragon, see!” the dragon said as he puffed out his chest and sent out a thin stream of flame.

“Oh?” Twilight asked with a teasing smirk. “So it must have been some other dragon who was purring like a kitten while Fluttershy gave him a massage.”

“W-what? I did no such thing!” Spike said quickly as his cheeks turned red. “I was merely letting the pegasus bask in my majestic presence.”

“Of course,” the alicorn said as she got up with a groan. “Ugh... I think I'm going to go for a walk. Let all these flowers settle a bit.” The mare slowly trotted towards the door, giving her mane a little shake. “Wanna come with me?”

“Nah, I'm good,” Spike yawned as he curled up in her warm spot. “Mmmm... zzzzzz...”

Twilight shrugged as she stepped outside. The night was cool and comfortable, the moon over head casting a gentle glow across the land, though its weak light made the shadows of the huts look impenetrable. She slowly made her way through the town, the scent of fresh flowers filling her nostrils. The mare sighed as she gazed up at the stars. “It's nights like these I could forget there even is a war,” she mumbled.

As she trotted towards the large entrance gate of the town, she made out the silhouette of a pony. She quickly hid in the shadows of the nearest hut as the pony walked. Step by step the pony came closer as she hunched down, ready to pounce.

Finally the pony walked a few feet away and she pounced. “YAH!” Suddenly a wall formed in front of her as she slammed into it, pain shooting through her face. “Owie...” the mare moaned as she dropped to the ground.

“Avatar?” the pony asked as a torch lit up, revealing Flam. He stared at the prone alicorn. “What are you doing up? Why are you ambushing ponies in the night?”

“I-I thought you were one of the Water Nation soldiers, trying to sneak in,” she said with a groan as she rubbed her nose. “What were you doing out there?”

“Patrols,” the earth pony snapped. “You should be in bed, Avatar. What are you doing up?”

“I couldn't sleep,” she mumbled as she looked around. “Stomach was acting up and-”

“I see, I see,” Flam interrupted. “Well, now that you're up, I would like to discuss something with you. You said you were in a bit of a rush to get to Fillydelphia, correct?”

“Yes, of course. I still need to find a master who can train me,” Twilight said with a sigh, before glancing up at the earth bender. “Although, you and your brother seem quite-”

“No, no, I'm afraid that could never work,” Flam said quickly. “My brother and I know nothing about training. It was all self taught. However, I'm sure you don't want to leave us and the rest of these poor, helpless ponies at the mercy of these evil water benders, would you?”

“Well, errr, no,” she mumbled. “I actually thought Rainbow and I could go out and see what we could do, tomorrow morning. I thought she'd be back by now...”

“Excellent!” the earth pony said as he lightly twirled his mustache. “A marvelous idea. How about you go get some sleep, and tomorrow we can all see about ending this siege, once and for all?”

Twilight smiled as she nodded. “You know, you're right. We can do this, no problem.” The alicorn turned and trotted back towards her hut.

The moment she was gone, Flam began trotting to his own hut. Inside, Flim was waiting on his bed. “What did they say?” the earth pony asked as he glanced towards the doorway.

“We need to gather our things. This time tomorrow, we'll be miles from here. With a brand new prize,” the bender said as he chuckled manically. “It'll be just like when we first got here, except this time we won't be coming back.”

“Nooooo! Don't do it!” Sweetie yelled at the top of her lungs. “You'll never make it!”

“Ah have tah try!” Flowerbloom shrieked as her hooves trembled. “Ah ain't never said no to a challenge!”

“It's madness! Crazy! Insanity! Don't do it!” the young princess shrieked as she covered her eyes with her hooves... mostly.

“Here ah go!” the earth pony yelled as she lunged! She flew through the air, hooves outstretched as time seemed to slow down. For a moment, it looked like she would make it... then her hooves flew just under the shelf as she let out a shriek. The mare collided with the wall a second later and slowly slid down. She let out a groan as she toppled onto her back. “Maybeh ah'll let yah get em down. Jus' this once,” the earth pony groaned.

Sweetie rolled her eyes as her horn glowed. A moment later, a white cookie jar glided down from the shelves. “See?”

“If it wasn't made ah that cheap glass yah unicorns like so much, ah coulda jus' bucked it down,” Flowerbloom grumbled as she took a chocolate chip cookie. “We gonna be there soon?”

“Mmmm hmmmm,” Sweetie managed to get out as she chewed down a few chocolate chip cookies of her own. She swallowed before grinning, crumbs all over her lips. “Captain says we should be able to see it as soon as the sun comes out. Wanna go watch?”

“Do I!” Flowerbloom said happily as she rolled over onto her hooves and the two galloped through the ship. They only paused a moment to toss on scarfs, hoof warmers and earmuffs, before they galloped onto the deck.

As they stepped outside, icy winds began to batter them instantly. It was so cold that a thin layer of ice and snow covered the entire deck, forcing them to walk carefully as they went. The world below was nothing but ice and water, giant icebergs floated in defiance of the sun's new warmth.

“A-a-a-a-ah thought t-t-t-the n-n-n-n-night was c-c-c-c-cold... I-i-it's f-f-f-freezing” Flowerbloom sputtered out as she gazed over the world. All the white snow and ice made it easy to see in the moonlight. “W-w-w-why i-i-i-is the iceblock h-h-h-here?” She gasped as she turned to the unicorn. Even her ribbon had completely frozen solid, a light frost covering it.

“B-best p-place to keep a-anypony from escaping,” Sweetie mumbled as she gazed over the world. The sun began to slowly rise as she squinted her eyes to look around. “W-where i-is it? It should... T-THERE!” she shrieked as she pointed a hoof.

Standing out, like a spear through the snow covered land, was a massive tower of clear ice. The sun gleamed off it, turning it into a beautiful prism of color. Flowerbloom gasped as the dazzling colors spread throughout the massive tower, spreading out to paint the snow around them in a rainbow's glow. “It's beautiful...”

“Yes, it is,” Sweetie agreed as their coldness was momentarily forgotten. “It's almost a shame that once we capture the avatar, it'll never be seen again. Almost.”

The ship flew towards the tower and, as it got closer, a large hole formed in the side to allow the vessel entrance. It glided inside silently, revealing a large empty cavity. As the hole closed up behind them, they let out a sigh. While it was still sub-zero inside, the tower was still far warmer than the icy wilderness outside.

“Where is everypony?” Flowerbloom asked as she reached up and lightly tapped her frozen ribbon, making a light click sound.

“They'll be here soon,” Sweetie said as she walked towards the port side of the ship. A ramp was slowly lowered and she began walking down it. “Flowerbloom, come along. Everypony else, keep the ship ready to leave on a moments notice,” she paused for a moment as she brought a hoof under her chin and rubbed it thoughtfully. “Also, keep everypony warm. I don't want anypony keeling over before we find the avatar.”

“Yes ma'am!” the captain said enthusiastically as he darted to the helm. “Okay, everypony! Let's get some fires going. Hup to it!”

The earth pony and unicorn walked down the ramp, soon stopping on the frozen floor. After a few moments the ground opened as two unicorns, on a round platform of ice, ascended to them. They bowed their heads. “Your highness.”

“Yes, yes,” Sweetie said with a roll of her eyes as the two mares stepped onto the platform. “Take us to the students.”

The unicorns nodded their heads as the platform began to lower. The brilliant clear ice around them began to give way to darkness as they disappeared under the frozen sea.

Twilight groaned as she slowly opened her eyes and let out a scream. Big, pink eyes were less than an inch from hers.

“GOOOOOD MORNING!” Pinkie said ever so cheerfully as she yanked the blankets up.

“Don't do that!” the alicorn hissed as she shot up in bed. She shook her head and groaned, the fast movements making her dizzy. “Did Rainbow get back?”

“No...” the pink mare mumbled as she poked her hooves together, her excitement evaporating. “I'm sure she's okay though. We're only in book two so she can't disappear.”

“... The heck are... no, don't wanna know,” Twilight groaned as she sat up. “Pinkie sense, right? Where are Flim and Flam?”

“Outside, gathering... tribute? I think they called it?”

“WHAT?!” the alicorn asked as her eyes went wide. She quickly jumped from the bed and darted outside. True to the earth pony's words, Flim and Flam were outside as ponies were busy filling two wagons with all manner of things, pottery, food and anything they had of value.

“Come one, come all!” Flim said as he motioned into the wagon. “Remember, give generously! This is the avatar we're talking about! The most powerful pony in all- eek!” the stallion took a step back as Twilight suddenly appeared in front of him.

“Just what do you think you're doing?” she asked through gritted teeth.

“G-gathering tribute, for you! Your most wonderful and amazing avatar-ness!” the earth pony said weakly as he took a step back, nervously adjusting his mane.

“Why? I don't require tribute,” the alicorn snapped as she glanced to the wagons. “Let alone have anything I could do with it. Ponies, pl-”

Flam was suddenly in front of her and put a hoof over her mouth, “Easy, easy! These are just offerings!” he said as he quickly tugged her away from the crowd. “These ponies see you as their hero and want to do something, anything to thank you. You can't just spit in their face like that.”

“I... what? But...”

“No, trust me,” the mustached pony said with a shake of his head. “These ponies want to give these gifts to you. You're their hope, their future, the pony they want to grow up to be. Are you really going to look at them and tell them that their gifts aren't good enough? That they aren't good enough? After all they've lost, not let them offer this small treasure in return for your kindness?”

“Well, no, but-”

“Exactly,” the pony nodded quickly. “If it really means that much to you, after we're done with this you can come back and give whatever you feel you don't need to them. But, until then, let the ponies feel like they are contributing. Let them feel like they are helping you. After all, without any of us here today they are going to be alone, without any benders, so keeping their morale up is pivotal. You understand, right?”

Twilight slowly nodded as she glanced to the floor. “You're... you're right. I understand,” she said as she forced a smile as she slowly turned towards the gathered ponies. “I, ummm, thank all of you! For your generosity, I could not do this without all of you!”

The ponies nodded solemnly as they tossed their belongings into the wagons. A small colt ran over and gave her a small beaded necklace. “Please be safe, Avatar. Don't disappear too.”

“Disappear? What do you- eek!”

“Now, Avatar,” Flim started as he moved to the alicorn's other side, quickly guiding her away, “how about you go get breakfast and we can get to finding those water benders?”

The avatar nodded as she started trotting away. The two earth benders shared a wink as they followed after her.

“Fighting a bender is suicide!” a pegasus mare, dressed in a tight skin tight outfit, with a skull and wing over the cutie mark, yelled. Black fabric covered her hooves and face, while the purple of the uniform was separated from the black by small lightning bolts.. Two yellow eye covers hid her gaze from the dozens of pegasi who stood at attention before her, each wearing a similar outfit. “At least, for those who can't bend. That's why ponies like us are sent in hordes to soften up true benders. Many superiors think we're nothing more than cannon fodder, to die as a means to soften up their ranks!” the mare yelled as she got in close to one of the ponies, her eyes inches from his. “Tell me, soldier, do you think you're nothing but useless cannon fodder?”

“Sir, no sir!” the pony said fiercely as he dug his hooves into the ground.

“Oh, is that so?” the mare smirked. “Then what would you do if I told you you were going to have to face a fire bender? An earth bender? An air bender? Or maybe, even a water bender? Well, pigeon?”

“Sir, I'd say their dependency on their bending makes them weak, sir!” the pony said as he kept his gaze straight ahead. “I'd say I'd take it from them, and then I'd take whatever else I wanted, sir!”

“What if I told you, you had to fight Nightmare Moon herself?” the mare asked quickly.

The pony didn't move.

“Well? I asked you a question, ostrich.”

“Sir, a shadowbolt cannot raise their hooves against the moon,” the stallion said nervously, for the first time his gaze faltering. “I... I would die. S-sir.”

The mare stared at him intently. After a moment a grin spread along her lips. “Good. That's what I like to hear.” She turned and walked back to the front of the group. “Now, you all know why you're here. You don't want to be another nameless face that dies for our country, sent out to soften up defenses and then forgotten about once the battle is over. You want to become shadowbolts. It's not easy. We are specially trained as the best of the best. When it comes to respect and rank, we are seen as on par even with water benders. We are Nightmare Moon's fliers. The greatest pegasi this world has ever known! You've all made it here, so you can't be too useless. But a few recommendations won't be enough! You'll need to train, practice, you'll feel like your wings might fall off. Tartarus, about five-percent of you will likely lose your wings in one way or another. But, if you can make it through these next few years, you'll be a part of the Water Nation's greatest fighting force!” she yelled as she stomped her hooves. “You all have the rest of the day off. I'd advise you to prepare. After tonight, you're all mine,” she growled.

The ponies gulped as they quickly scattered, disappearing down the many halls attached to the chamber. A light applauding could be heard from behind the pegasus. “Shadowblade, an impressive display,” Sweetie said as she trotted in.

“Ah, your highness,” the pegasus said as she bowed her head. “Truly, it is an honor to have you grace our halls.”

“Of course it is,” the unicorn said as she glanced about. “Though, I was surprised to hear you talking about defeating water benders in your training. Is that really necessary?”

“I believe so,” the mare said softly. “There is always a possibility of a traitor in our midst. We are trained to destroy all enemies of her highness, not just those from other kingdoms.”

“I see. Well, I suppose as the new leader of the shadowbolts, it is your decision. I trust you know why I am here?”

The mare let out a soft sigh. “Yes, your highness. I understand, but please, reconsider...”

“Oh?” Sweetie cocked an eyebrow. “Why do you say that?”

“She is so... so...” Shadowblade chewed on her lip as she tried to think of the proper word. “Inexperienced.”

“She's been training here for years.”

“I mean... in the outside world. Here, she is fine... just...”

Sweetie sighed. “Take me to her, we'll talk on the way. Now, are her skills in your arts sufficient?”

“Yes!” the mare blurted as she began walking through the halls. The halls were completely black, the only light coming from a small torch, which did little to penetrate the darkness. Flowerbloom looked around nervously, swearing she could see things in the darkness, watching them, just beyond the torches light. “She has mastered almost all of our arts. She is probably one of our better recruits. But, she's not a shadowbolt.”

“Oh? And why not?” the white unicorn asked as she cocked an eyebrow, an amused smirk on her face.

“Because of her... her difficulty with... she can't...” The mare scratched at the ground as she glanced to the unicorn. “She can barely fly!”

“... Your point being?” Sweetie asked as she chuckled.

“She is not ready. We have trained her for years, but were it not for your recommendation she would have been sent to an earth pony battalion long ago. I'm afraid her case is hopeless. She will never be able to fly in the way a true shadowbolt should.”

“I see,” the unicorn said as she sighed. “Now, allow me to clarify something, pegasus. Scootaloo is my friend. I would sooner have her at my side than a hundred shadowbolts. Tartarus, than a hundred water benders. She is fast, strong, loyal and able. Her lack of flying ability is of no consequence.”

“But-”

“I will hear no more of this. Do I make myself clear?”

“... Yes, your highness.”

“I take it that, if I decide to promote Scootaloo to a full shadowbolt, you will give no objections?”

Shadowblade's step faltered, but she slowly nodded. “We follow Nightmare Moon's orders. As the future mare to bare that crown, your wish is our command.”

“Very good. Now, where is she?”

“Here,” the mare said as she stopped in front of a large, metal door. “The recruits chambers are through here. Shall I summon her?”

“Please do,” the unicorn said as she glanced back. “Flowerbloom, are you okay?”

“W-what? A-ah'm fine,” she squeaked as she scooted up extremely close to the other mare. “Is... is there somethin' out there? B-behind the ice?”

“Some of them,” Shadowblade said as she began to turn the crank on the door and let it creek open. “It's where we keep many of the prisoners. Locked behind ice in the darkness, where they belong.” She paused for a moment before glancing to the pony. “Don't worry. There is no way for them to escape. Even if they could break through the yard or so of ice, there is nothing but water and the shadowbolts for them here.”

“A-ah see... What about bendin'?” Flowerbloom asked weakly.

“No earth for them to bend, and we have special ways of dealing with air benders,” the pegasus said with a grin as she walked into the room, slamming the steel door behind her.

“Are you sure about this?” Twilight asked Flim and Flam as she walked behind them. Occasionally she glanced back at Fluttershy and Pinkie, who were busy hauling the two filled wagons.

“Oh, of course! They always attack when there is a shipment going out. I don't see why this time would be any different. Just trust us,” Flim said as he gave a little wink.

“Fine... I still wish Rainbow was with us,” the avatar mumbled. “Are you two okay back there?”

“Fine!” Spike answered as he lounged about on one of the wagons.

“I was asking Fluttershy and Pinkie...”

“Oh, ummm, i-it's fine,” the little yellow pegasus mumbled with a grunt as she tugged the wagon forward. Sweat covered her coat as she occasionally flapped her wings, a useless attempt to stay cool.

“Hee hee, it's fine!” the pink earth pony said as she hopped about, each hop making the things in her wagon rattle about.

“Okay, as long as you're sure,” the alicorn said with a sigh. “I wish we didn't have to take all these things. Why couldn't we leave them at the village?”

“We told you,” Flam said with a roll of his eyes. “You want to keep the villagers happy, right? Not hurt their feelings? It' best if you just keep these things. You don't want everypony to feel like you don't like their gifts, do you?”

“No,” Twilight mumbled as she hung her head.

“AVATAR!” a voice yelled out. Their heads whipped about to the right as ten unicorns, dressed in the Water Nation's armor, stepped out from the nearby treeline. “We've been waiting for you.”

“Well, you're waits over!” the alicorn said as she pointed a hoof at them. “Come on, let's ge-”

“Hold!” one of the unicorn's yelled as she raised a hoof. “Before you do that, perhaps you should look at what we've found?” She quickly moved behind one of the trees and pulled on a large rope. A moment later a small cage on wheels rolled out. Through the bars a single pony, tied and gagged, could be seen. A very angry, thrashing blue pegasus.

“Rainbow!” Twilight yelled as she raced forward, but stopped as one of the archer's took aim at the bound mare.

“Easy, avatar. We caught her, fair and square. If you do what we say, we'll even let her go,” the unicorn said as a smirk formed on her lips. “If you try anything, we'll shoot. Now, come closer. Slowly, don't move those wings.”

She slowly did as she was told, keeping her head low as she moved. “Please, just let her go. This is between me and you, she's innocent.”

“Yes yes, stop!” the mare ordered as the alicorn froze in the middle of a circle of dirt. “That's as far as you come.”

Twilight nodded as she stopped. Behind her, Flim and Flam smirked to each other as they raised their hooves. Pinkie and Fluttershy reached behind themselves as they detached their wagons. The earth twins brought their hooves down to the ground right as the avatar darted forward! The ground under her shook as her wings opened up and sent a large, powerful burst of air at the soldiers.

“Gah!” the ponies yelled as they were flung back in a flurry of wind, leaves and twigs. The alicorn shrieked as the ground under her flew up, a very small cage, with only one small window, shot out of the ground. Her back hooves were caught on the edge for a moment as the metal structure shot up and flipped her forward. She shrieked as she spun through the air a few times before landing in a heap.

“Owie... what the...” she groaned as she looked back and down at the ground. “How... what?”

“Damn it, Flim! You were too slow!” Flam snapped as he hit his brother upside the head.

“What?! No, you were! You waited too long for the signal!” Flim snapped back as he walloped his brother right back. Soon the two smacked at each other angrily as they yelled and cursed.

Twilight stared at them for a moment before looking up at the cage. She let out a growl before shaking her head and turning to the soldiers.

The Water Nation unicorn mare tried picking up her bow, but quickly found it enveloped in fire. She squeaked as she looked up at the approaching alicorn, who had flames hovering above her head. “I-I surrender!” the unicorn shrieked as she covered her head with her hooves. “We a-aren't benders! We aren't even Water Nation! Please don't hurt us! We're sorry!”

Twilight's hoof shot out as fire flew through the air. They glided over the heads of the fleeing ponies and quickly spread into a wall of flame. The rest of the ponies quickly lowered themselves as well, cowering before the avatar's might. “What do you mean, you AREN'T Water Nation?” she hissed as she moved to the cage. A small ball of fire formed above her head as she shot it into the key hole. She jumped back, and a moment later the door latch exploded. She stepped forward to unbind her friend, but suddenly the ground shot up under her, slamming into her stomach. She let out a groan as she was sent flying back, landing in a heap as two pillars of stone shot out and crushed her in between them. As the rocks crumbled the mare groaned, barely able to move as pain shot through her.

“What they meant,” Flim growled as he whipped his mane back. Behind him a large prison of stone held Fluttershy, Pinkie and Spike as they pounded on the bars. “Is that they were hired by us.”

Flam nodded as he kicked the ground. The dirt under the large metal trap started moving it closer to the alicorn. “Now we're going to get the biggest prize of all. The Water Nation will pay big money to have the avatar,” the earth pony said with a chuckle. The ground under the purple mare shot up, tossing the battered pony into the metal trap. A second later it was knocked on its side and the lid snapped shut.

“Sure took your time with that,” the unicorn in armor snapped as she got to her hooves. “We were almost to- gahhh!” the ground exploded under her, sending her sprawling.

“Get out of here, all of you,” Flim snapped as he raised his hoof menacingly. “You couldn't even do one thing right!”

“But we-”

“Cowered like a couple of foals the moment the avatar turned on you,” Flam growled as he lifted his hoof as well. “After all we did to help you rob that town, you turn on us the moment it gets a little dicey? Pathetic. Get out of here before we decide to squash you too!”

The unicorns looked around nervously before turning to run. Flim and Flam stomped their hooves against the ground as the dirt began tugging the avatar's prison to the wagons, eventually tossing it on top. “Now, if you'll excuse us,” the mustached stallion said as he bowed to the two ponies and dragon in the rock cage, “we must go. We have a prisoner and plenty of treasures to sell. Tah tah.” They each hooked themselves up to one of the wagons and began to trot off, down the road.

“You'll never get away with this!” Spike yelled as he clawed at the bars. “You can't trust the Water Nation!”

“S-stop! You don't have to do this!” Fluttershy called out as she chewed on her lower lip, looking around. She tried flapping her wings and sending out a burst of wind, but all she made was a light breeze.

“Pinkie, aren't you going to say something?” the dragon asked as he looked at the pink pony.

“Nnnnnope. I'm just waiting for you to figure it out!” Pinkie said as she sat down and relaxed against the back of the cage. “I think they did it in the show better though.”

“What are you... nevermind. We don't have time!” Spike yelled before face clawing. “... I just figured it out.” He quickly started digging down, through the dirt and under the bars of stone. A few seconds later he popped out the other side as the pink mare giggled.

“You did it, Spikey! Now go help Dashie!” Pinkie said as she hopped around the cage.

“I swear I will never understand that mare,” the dragon grumbled as he ran to the metal cage. Rainbow laid there, completely tied up as he brandished his claws. “Okay, just hold still.”

Within seconds the pegasus was on her hooves, wings out. “Okay, get the others out. I'm going after those two!” she snapped before taking off like a bolt.

“Oh, thank you Spike,” the dragon mumbled under his breath as he walked towards the other two prisoners. “I couldn't have gotten out without you. Please, go save the others,” he grumbled with a roll of his eyes as he got to digging. “I'll go on ahead, but let me reiterate how grateful I am to you for releasing me...”

After a few moments the others were out and Fluttershy wrapped the little dragon in a big, tight hug. “Oh thank you so much for getting us out, Spike! You're so brave and courageous...”

The little dragon grinned, his cheeks bright red. “Heh heh. It was nothin'.”

Deep under the sea in the maximum security prison, the Ice Block, Sweetie stared with unwavering determination at her foe. She chewed on her lower lip as she prepared her assault. She would need to be cunning. Swift. Powerful. Unflinching. She took a deep breath before... “Do you have any threes?”

“Nope! Go fish,” Flowerbloom said as she chuckled. “Do yah got any twos?”

“... Hate you,” Sweetie grumbled as she held out two from her large stack of cards. The earth pony took it and added it with her last card before tossing them down.

“Ah win again!”

“How do you keep doing that?” the unicorn yowled as she tossed her cards in the air.

“Ah told yah, ah played it all the time back home,” Flowerbloom said with a snicker. A moment later the big steel door began to move.

Shadowblade stood in the doorway, gazing down at them. “Your highness. May I present, shadowbolt-in-training, Scootaloo.”

There was a sudden black blur as a pony dived down from above in between the two young mares. The pony was wearing the same shadowbolt uniform, except she had brown wings and coat. She landed on her hind legs as she began making rapid gestures with her hooves, striking out, poking, jabbing and slicing with her wings. She then grinned and reached out, gripping both the mares and pulling them into a big hug.

“Scootaloo!” the two young ponies said in unison.

“The one and only! Heh heh. I haven't seen you in ages,” the pegasus said as she chuckled. “What brings you two here?” she asked as she released them, causing the two to tumble backwards.

“Well, is it not obvious?” Sweetie asked with a smirk. “We've come here, for you.” The unicorn nodded dramatically.

“Well, duh,” the pegasus said with a snicker. “But I mean, why did you two decide to visit now? Oh, is it cause the sun is up now? The light show is pretty cool.”

The unicorn blinked a few times. “I... what? No! I meant we came here for you. Specifically for you. To pick you up and take you with us,” she added quickly as she gestured with her hooves.

“With... ohhhh! I get it, heh,” Scootaloo rubbed her head a few times. “I appreciate it, but I'm happy here. I know it's cold, but I'm used to it, I-”

“Not because you're unhappy here,” Sweetie said with a sigh. “We need your help! I need your help. I intend to capture the avatar, and I want you to be there with me.”

“Oh,” the pegasus said gently as she stared. She glanced back to Shadowblade before sighing. “But, I still have a lot of work to do. I haven't become a shadowbolt yet, and-”

“Then I will make you one!” the unicorn stated quickly as she stomped a hoof down. “I hereby decree that you, Scootaloo, are an official shadowbolt. Any objections?” she asked as she glanced to Shadowblade.

“... No,” Scootaloo mumbled. “I appreciate what you're doing, but no. If I become a shadowbolt, it will because I earned it, not because I'm your friend. Thank you, but I can't accept it.”

“But, but Scootaloo,” Flowerbloom said gently. “We're your best pals. We needs yah.”

“I know, but-”

“Scootaloo, what is the number one rule of being a shadowbolt?” Shadowblade snapped.

“Loyalty to the Water Nation and our queen!” the young shadowbolt-in-training said quickly as she stood at attention.

“Exactly,” the elder pegasus said. “This is the future Nightmare Moon asking for your services. Would you deny her?”

“... No,” Scootaloo said as she bowed her head. “I'm sorry, your highness. Of course I will aid you in whichever way I c- EEEK!” the pegasus toppled over as her friends tackle-glomped her.

“Cutie mark crusader avatar hunters!” the two said as they hugged their friend.

“Heh heh, yeah. I just need to gather my things first, okay?” the pegasus slowly tugged away from her friends as she disappeared behind the steel door, chuckling as she shook her head.

“You've trained her well,” Sweetie said as she glanced to Shadowblade. “Not many would decline my offer like that.”

“The mare has the spirit of a shadowbolt,” the elder pegasus said with a nod of her head. “We do not take what we have not earned. She will serve you well.”

“Oh, I know. Send her and her things to the ship, please,” Sweetie said as she turned and started walking away. “We'll depart as soon as she's ready.”

“LET ME OUT!” Twilight screamed as she tried kicking her prison. It was so narrow she couldn't even go down on all fours without squashing herself, making a full buck impossible. “You can't do this!”

“We already have, Avatar. Just relax,” Flim said as he rolled his eyes. “Listen, you're a smart girl. You can probably escape... eventually. Think of it as, ohhh... funding a couple of brilliant entrepreneurs. We get the money, the Water Nation gets their avatar and you might escape and be on your way in short time. Everypony wins.”

“Do you have any idea what you're doing?! You're going to doom the world to untold suffering!” the alicorn cried as she hit the metal as hard as she could. “I can't afford any more delays, the world is depending on me!”

“Well, our new homes with beach front property, beautiful mares and all the sweet apple cider we can drink are waiting for us, so keep it down back there!” Flam snapped. “I swear, ugh. Some ponies just don't know how to be a proper prisoner.”

“Tell me about it, Avatar! Stop that whistling!” Flim yelled.

“I'm not whistling! LET ME OUT!” Twilight screamed as she headbutted the door, letting out a whimper as pain shot through her horn.

“Huh? Then what's th-” Flim's words were lost as the ground around them exploded, sending both the ponies and the wagons crashing through the air. Rainbow stood in the midst of a crater, eyes narrowed on the two ponies.

“Okay, you two,” the pegasus said with a snort. “You wanna play? Let's- whoa!” she jumped back as a pillar of rock shot out from the ground, nearly hitting her under the chin. “Hah! Let's see you do that now!” she taunted as she soared up into the air.

“As you wish!” Flim said as he stomped his hooves on the ground, bringing up stacks of stones. Flam quickly moved to the piles and shoved his hoofs forward, sending the rocks soaring at the pegasus.

Rainbow dived and weaved around the assault, trying to get closer as the barrage of stones peppered her. Occasionally one would nick her wing or strike her side, but she managed to avoid too many direct blows from the larger ones. She was forced back under the torrent, unable to move closer without getting hurt. “Stupid... earth benders!” she growled. She flew up and out of range of the assault and began spinning. “Fine! You wanna fight like that? We'll fight like that!” She formed a small tornado around herself and dove straight at them.

As she flew, the rocks bounced off the wind tunnel and the two earth benders gulped. They turned to each other and put their hooves together before raising them up. A stream of rocks and dirt flew at the tornado.

The two forces collided. The winds pierced through the dirt, clawing closer as the earth molded around the tornado. Inch by inch Rainbow pushed harder and harder, but she began feeling resistance. As the ground mixed with the air it fought against her bending and latched onto the mare. With a powerful push the earth benders sent a muddy wave over the cyclone.

It broke under the force, revealing the blue pegasus within. She had only a second to brace herself before the dirt slammed into her and brought her to the ground.

“You lose,” Flim said as he walked forward, the dirt encasing the mare so only her face could be seen. “I'll give you a little credit. As air benders go, you aren't bad. But you should have brought a sister before you fought the Flim Flam brothers!” he said with a laugh as he moved in close to the mare. She blew out quickly, using her air bending to amplify it and topple him over. “Ahhhh! You little, you little... fine! We were going to be nice, but if you wanna do it that way, we'll do it that way!”

Rainbow thrashed about as she began sinking into the ground. “You... you lousy... no good... crooks! I knew you were up to no good when I first laid eyes on you! Bunch of-mmfff!” she growled and struggled as dirt flew over her mouth, covering it.

“Now now, don't be so rude,” Flam said with a shake of his head. “Most of what we do is quite legal... depending on the country you're in.” The two earth ponies chuckled. Right until the area behind them exploded in a fireball, sending them toppling forward and disrupting their bending. The two confused stallions landed in a heap, looking around with wide eyes.

Twilight grinned at them, standing perched on the cage. The lid was open, the clasp shattered by the rock held in the hoof of the nearby Pinkie Pie. “You okay, Rainbow?” the alicorn asked.

“Fine!” the pegasus cried as she pulled herself free from the dirt, sending it across the ground. She whipped about to look at the two earth ponies. “Well? Feel so cocky now? Two on two.”

Flam gulped as he looked to his brother. “Ah... it seems the tides are no longer quite in our favor. What do you say, Flim?”

“Well,” the stallion answered with a nervous cough. “Any business pony knows there are times to stand and fight. This. Is not one of those times. Now!” Both earth ponies slammed their hooves to the ground as the dirt around them burst up. Dust flew into the air, thick and blinding.

After a few moments Rainbow managed to blow it away with her wings, though the four ponies and dragon still coughed and sputtered as they tried to get the dirt out of their orifices. “Dang it,” the pegasus growled as she spat out some dirt. “They got away.”

“Wonderful,” Twilight grumbled. “Rainbow, fly up and see if you can see them, okay?”

The pegasus nodded as she flew up into the sky and looked around. No matter the direction, she couldn't see any sign of the yellow ponies. She let out a sigh as she dove back down. “Nothing. They probably went underground.”

“Wonderful... well, there's only one thing we can do,” the avatar mumbled. “We're going to have to see how much of these supplies we can take back to that town. They deserve to know about those two, and their treachery.”

“But what about those fake water benders? If we let them go, they'll probably cause more problems.”

Twilight sighed. “I suppose we should try and find them too. Maybe we can-”

“On it!” Rainbow yelled as she took off, leaving a blue streak in her wake.

“RAINBOW! GET BACK HERE!” the alicorn yelled before shaking her head. “I swear she does this on purpose...” Off in the distance she could see the pegasus disappear behind some clouds, ignoring the calls.

“Definitely,” Spike said as he walked to the wagons. “I don't think much of this is going to be any good. All the foods torn up, most the pottery and things are shattered.”

“It doesn't matter,” Twilight mumbled as she moved behind Spike. “We'll take what we can back. Then we'll go after Rainbow. It shouldn't take long.”

“Are you sure that's enough?” Sweetie asked as she stared at her little pegasus friend.

“Yep,” Scootaloo said as she patted a very small bag on her side. “Just a few pictures and medals from my times here. You know me, always travel light. So, let's get this hunk of junk in the air!” the mare yelled as she raised her hoof and ran to the aft deck to gaze out.

“You heard her, captain!” Sweetie yelled as she and Flowerbloom ran up to join their friend. The ship slowly began to rise from the ground as the wall of ice opened in front of them. The ship headed out into the harsh tundra, the winds pushing at their bodies and chilling them to the bone.

“So, where we goin' first?” Flowerbloom asked with a smile.

“We'll be heading to the southern areas of the Earth Kingdom,” the unicorn answered as she moved a hoof over her eyes to block the winds. “We'll be traveling with some other devices of our kingdom, but won't be flying any more.”

“Why?” Scootaloo asked as she spread out her wings, letting the wind flow around her.

“Our forces are spread thin. It'll be faster to go in with a small force that can avoid fighting,” the unicorn said as she sighed. “But an air ship will draw too much attention. Don't worry, I have a few... other plans in store.” She began to cackle maniacally as the ship flew through the frozen lands. After a few seconds she shook her head. “L-let's go inside and play or something. It's bucking cold!”

Twilight hung her head as they walked through the fields of flowers. She took a deep breath. “Okay, everypony, this isn't going to be easy.” All of them were carrying small hoof made bags filled with what they could salvage. “We're going to have to tell them that, not only were their protectors frauds, but most of what they gave me was destroyed in the fight. I imagine they'll be very upset and... and they'll what?”

Standing at the entrance to the town were all ten of the unicorns, bound in rope. Resting on her back, on top of one of the huts, was Rainbow Dash. She glanced up and laughed. “Hey! Sure took your time getting here, didn't you?” the mare yelled out.

“Rainbow, how did you, when did you... What?!” the alicorn yelled.

“I told you! I'm Rainbow Dash! I'm awesome! Isn't a single water bender in any of the countries who can take me down, especially not a bunch of fake wannabes,” the mare called down as she chuckled.

“...” Twilight glared as she tossed the bag off her back and stormed towards the pegasus. “Rainbow, that was very irresponsible! You could have been hurt or captured again. You had us worried!”

“If you were so worried, how'd you have time to gather all those things?” the cocky mare asked as she rolled onto her stomach and motioned to the supplies.

“What? We brought these back for the town. W-we didn't think you'd actually-”

“Oh, admit it,” Rainbow said with a smirk. “You knew I'd be fine. You knew there was no way a bunch of second rate wanna be benders could even hope to keep up with the awesome and amazing Rainbow Dash. Bah, you missed the radicalness. The fight was intense! They tried coming at me all at once, but I was all-”

“We surrendered the moment you showed up!” one of the unicorns snapped. “We didn't want to get hurt, or worse! We never thought we'd have to endure listening to you go on for hours about how special you think you are!”

Twilight cocked an eyebrow as she stared up at the blushing pegasus. “So, the fight was intense, huh?”

“Well, it should have been... they were just too afraid to deal with the bundle of too cool-to-fight. I would have taken them all down if I wanted, but I figured it was easier to let them walk here on their own. Been keeping an eye on them ever since.”

“Uh huh. So, where are all the towns ponies?” Twilight asked as she looked around. Aside from the tied up soldiers, she couldn't see anypony.

The pegasus shrugged. “No idea. I told them about everything when I got here and they just wandered back into town without a word. Didn't even thank me. I figured I'd stay out here and keep the peace.”

“Okay, I'm going to talk with them,” the alicorn said with a sigh as she glanced back. “Ummm... this might come better from me, so I'd like to do this alone. If that's okay?” The others nodded as she took a side and walked into the town. As soon as she turned the first corner around the huts she cringed at how silent it was. She couldn't even hear the sounds of children talking.

She looked left and right as she passed through the huts, chewing on her lower lip. “Hello? Where is... oh,” she said softly as she came to the center of the town. Where once the tables had been standing strong, filled with delicious food, instead the tables were torn down. Most the ponies from the town were there, sitting, unmoving as they watched the ground. “What happened?”

Rosebush glanced up from nearby and let out a sigh. “Ah'm sorry avatar...” she muttered.

“You're sorry? What for? You didn't-”

“Your friend told us everythang. About Flim an' Flam. How could we be so stupid?” she grumbled as she looked to the ground. “Fallin' for all their lil tricks... shoulda known they weren't real water benders.”

“What? No, how could you have known?” Twilight said as she put on a smile and trotted up. “Listen, I know it seems bad, but we got them! Look, all the fake benders are captured, Flim and Flam are gone and no pony got hurt!”

“No pony got hurt?!” a nearby earth pony howled. “We've been treatin' those murderers like heroes!”

Twilight moved a hoof to her mouth. “Murderers? But they were just...”

“Those bastards!” Rosebush howled as she buried her face in her hooves. “They came an' took a number ah our town's ponies, tried tah fight those fake water benders. None a them came back. Only eva Flim and Flam. We thought it was cause all their fancy earth bendin' but... oh, how could we be so dense? All those disappearin' shipments an' then they just show up...”

“I... I...” Twilight slowly backed away as she looked around at the ponies. Broken, battered, defeated. Even the children were barely moving. She glanced towards the table, one last time, and tried to remember the celebrations that had occurred just the night prior. She finally shook her head and turned, walking through the huts, back to her friends.

“Twilight?” Fluttershy asked. “Is everything okay?”

“No,” the alicorn said as she motioned to the entrance. “Let's just leave the bags and go.”

“What about the prisoners?” Spike asked as he motioned to the tied up ponies.

“Leave them,” Twilight hissed.

“But-”

“Just, leave them. The town will deal with it. They're tied up. It's fine,” she grumbled.

“Hey, relax,” Rainbow chuckled as she flew down and landed by the alicorn. “We won. We knocked out the bad guys and everything is all better. Heh.”

“... Yes, we won,” Twilight mumbled as she glanced back at the town, images of the broken ponies fluttering to the top of her mind. “I don't know how many more victories like this I can take...” she whispered under her breath.

“Huh?” Rainbow asked.

“Nothing,” the alicorn said as she started down the rarely traveled road. The road through the Earth Kingdom had never felt longer.

Chapter 5: Inconspicuous Jumps

Near the border of the Earth Kingdom and the Water Nation, two ponies wearing brown cloaks walked side by side. “How are you feeling? Any aches, any pains?” the smaller pony, Rarity, asked her companion. “Do you want to take a rest, Aunty?”

“Niece, I am fine,” the elder mare, Celestia, said as she flipped her hood back and looked to the sky. “Besides, it is much too beautiful a day to waste sleeping in.”

“I suppose,” the young water bender mumbled. “If you do feel tired, let me know. I don't want you collapsing or getting sick.” She kept her head high, though as the two walked through tall fields of grass the princess couldn't deny she was getting tired.

“I'm fine,” the elder pony repeated. “We'll hit a town eventually and from there we can try to find some information on the avatar. Assuming you haven't given up?”

“Of course not! The avatar shall be mine! I will crush her in my hooves and then return home, a hero. Then I will find a way to remove this thing from my sister,” Rarity growled as she ground her teeth. “And get my darling little Sweetie Belle back.”

“Oh Rarity... I told you, there is no way to reverse it. I've tried and-”

“Look!” the young water bender shouted as she motioned ahead. A large section of the grass had been cut through the field and a small road could be seen. “I bet that leads to a town!”

“Likely. They rarely build roads that lead to nowhere. But dear niece, you must give up-”

“Come on, you old fuss pot! If you take too long I'll get there first and I'll make sure there isn't a drop of tea left for you!” Rarity said with a mischievous laugh as she galloped forward.

“What? NO!” Celestia gasped in horror before galloping after the mare. “I-I am nowhere near old enough where I can't beat a young filly in a race! The tea of victory shall be mine!”

The two tore through the field before finally jumping over the last of the tall grass and landing, at the same time, on the road. “I win!” they said in unison.

“What? I outran you by a mile!” Rarity objected.

“Oh? I just merely let you believe so,” Celestia said with a cocky smile. “Besides, I-”

“Hello?” a voice suddenly said from a few feet away. The two turned to see a young colt pegasus staring up at them. He was covered in mud with flicks of blue across his body. His coat was a light brown with a light gray mane. “A-are you from a-around here?” he asked weakly.

“No, little one,” Celestia sad as she held out a hoof. “We are but travelers. Come, we mean you no harm.”

The young colt took her hoof. “You... are you from Water Nation?”

“No,” Rarity said quickly. “My name is Diamondeye. This is my mother, Jademane. Are there Water Nation soldiers near her?”

“I-I don't think so,” the pony said as he shivered. “I-I'm from the village up the road. S-so you're from here?”

“No, no. We're Earth Kingdom travelers. Come, we'll take you home. What was your name?” Rarity asked with a smile.

The pegasus looked up. “My name? Littlewing.”

Twilight kept her head low as she kept walking, occasionally glancing back at the others but never saying anything. Very few words had been spoken since she had finally brought herself to tell the others what had happened. Pinkie tried getting the others to laugh, but even her antics weren't enough to raise the mood. Spike eventually looked up as the sun began to lower behind the mountains. “So... errr, when are we going to eat?”

“Huh?” the pony asked as she looked back at him.

“Eating? Food? When?”

The alicorn opened her mouth before closing it. She glanced back down the road and face hoofed. “And we left everything back there...”

“What? Oh great,” Rainbow groaned. “It took us all day to get this far! We can't just walk back!”

“I can't believe we went this far without noticing,” Twilight groaned as she shook her head.

“Well, we did have really a big breakfast...” Spike added.

“Speak for yourself!” Rainbow said with a roll of her eyes. “Though I ate when I got back to town... huh. How many more days do you think until we get to the next town?”

“Who knows?” Twilight said as she gazed to the right of the road. The road went around a large wooded area. She cringed at first before she realized she could see into it, without trying to gaze through a wall of darkness. “I'm sure we can find something to eat in there. Maybe berries. As long as we stick together we'll be fine. It doesn't seem anything like the Everfree Forest either.”

“Fine, it's going to be dark soon though,” Spike grumbled.

“Don't worry. My horn will allow us to see. Come on,” she said confidently as the five walked into the woods. While it was dark, the glow of the alicorn's horn lit the way. The trees didn't try to grab them and the darkness didn't envelop them. “This forest is much nicer than the last one,” Twilight muttered.

“That's not really a very high bar to jump over,” Rainbow muttered. “Do you really think there will be anything to eat?”

“The temperature has been normalized for a little over a month now,” the alicorn said softly. “I think it'll be fine. Lots of flowers are blooming and I bet lots of berries or edible roots will be out now. Besides, I once read a book on surviving in the wild. Worse comes to worse, we can eat grass.”

“Ahem,” Spike grumbled.

“... Except for Spike. Sorry, we'll find something you can ea... huh?” she stopped as she leaned down. “Hoof prints! Some pony came through here recently! We can find them and find some-” she went silent as a ghastly wail filled the air.

“W-what was that?” Spike asked as he looked around.

“Just the wind, it-” Rainbow started, but was interrupted as a loud scream cut through the air. The sound of branches being torn could be heard from behind them as another ghastly wail pierced the night.

“T-that d-didn't sound like a-any w-w-wind I-I've ever h-heard,” Fluttershy squeaked as she looked about. The way they came was suddenly flowing with a thick mist and within they could see shadows moving.

Twilight gulped as she took a step back. “I-I think we should go. I think we shoul-EEEK!” she screamed as she looked to the right and saw bones scattered across the ground. Even more frightening, they were moving. “Let's GO!” she screamed as she tossed Spike onto her back and the ponies took off full pelt through the woods. Behind them the mist pursued as more ghastly wails filled the air. She could see strange glowing from the left and right as they tore blindly through the night.

The ponies kept screaming as they finally burst through the woods. “We're out, keep running!” the alicorn screamed as a giant monster suddenly appeared in front of her and she slammed into it. “AHHHHH! GET IT OFF ME! GET IT OFF!” she screamed as she thrashed about. It clawed and scraped at her skin as she writhed in its grasp. “RAINBOW!”

“Twilight! C-calm down!” the pegasus said as she tried not to giggle.

After a moment the alicorn realized why as she slowly pulled herself from the large bush, cringing as the thorns cut into her skin. “Ow, ow, ow, owie...”

Spike groaned as he rubbed his head, having fallen off her back when she attacked the bush. “Everypony okay? Is it still chasing us?”

“No,” Rainbow mumbled as she glanced back. The mist was slowly retreating back into the darkness, a green glow disappearing in the distance. She then turned back and looked up. “Oh. Huh. I think we found a short cut.”

“Why?” Twilight groaned as Fluttershy moved over to start healing the scrapes. She turned around and her mouth fell open.

Homes. Not many of them, but homes none the less. About a dozen or so, some of which were a few stories tall. Made of stone bricks. “We've done it!” Pinkie said as she hopped about.

“I'm going to go see if I can find anypony!” Rainbow said as she took off towards the nearest door. She reached out and quickly knocked on it.

“Go away, demon! Please! We don't want anything to do with you!” a frightened voice answered.

“What? No! I'm not a demon, I'm Rainbow Dash! Air bender extraordinaire. You may have heard of me. I'm kinda famous. We have the avatar out here too.”

“S-sure yah do, and I have a bushel of brand new bouncing baby bunnies! Just take the tribute and leave!” the pony yelled from the other side of the door.

Rainbow growled as she stood up straight and leaned against the door. “Listen here, buster, I-”

“Rainbow, stop!” Twilight yelled out as she trotted up. “Look around.” The alicorn motioned across the town with a hoof.

“What? I don't... oh,” the pegasus said softly as she looked around. Almost every light in the houses were out, but ponies could be seen trying to peep out inconspicuously at the travelers. Everypony looked terrified as they watched. “What's going on here?”

“I don't know, but I aim to find out,” the avatar said as she moved towards a large stone fountain near the center of town, devoid of any water. She sat down and looked around. “These ponies seem too frightened to come out at night, so we'll just wait here for morning. I'm sure nothing-” the mare was interrupted as a loud howl cut through the night. “... I'm sure it will be fine. We can take care of anything... I hope.”

“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you!” a plump green earth pony mare said as she hugged Littlewing tight to her chest. Her mane was a light blue and heavily curled. “I only looked away for a second and then he was gone! I don't know what I'd have done if I'd lost the little dear. I've told you to always be back a few hours before sundown!”

“I-I'm fine,” the tiny colt groaned as he tried pulling from the vice-like grip. “Y-you just worry too much...”

“It really is quite fortunate we came upon him when we did, lady Gemcoat,” Celestia said as she looked around. The town was quite large, filled with short wooden houses lined up side-by-side. The two stood outside a large building with a picture of a chest hanging over the door. “Though, I worry we may be asking too much of you. Are you sure you're okay letting us stay here?”

“Nonsense, think nothing of it,” the mare said as she dragged the pegasus inside, still not letting go. “There's plenty of room. Besides, it would be nice having some company again.”

“Do you not get much?” Rarity asked as she stepped inside. The building was filled with shelves with all manner of different items, even some jewelry, on display. “The town seemed a bit, well...” she glanced back outside. Despite the large amount of houses, there were almost no ponies.

“Yes, unfortunately its been like this for the last few weeks,” the mare muttered. “The Water Nation has been pushing against the southern borders of the country. We've been able to keep them out, we still have a couple of earth benders and all. Unfortunately, all the stress has been getting to everypony. About half the town has a sickness like... well, I don't think its something I should talk about before supper.”

“Understandable. I imagine Littlewing here takes after his father?” Celestia asked as she moved to examine a small lady bug brooch.

“Nope, never married,” the mare said as she moved behind the counter.

Rarity's face turned bright red. “W-wait, so that means Littlewing was-”

“Diamondeye!” Celestia hissed.

“S-sorry, I wasn't thinking,” the unicorn said with a blush.

“Hee hee, think nothing of it,” Gemcoat said as she moved towards the back of the shop. “Actually, I found him out in the woods a few weeks back. Poor dear, covered in mud, dirt and blood. Could barely remember his name, let alone how to get home. Damn Water Nation, foalnapping one so young. You all like strawberries?”

“Oh, I just adore strawberries!” Rarity said as she picked up a small emerald necklace with a silver band. “This is such exquisite craftsmanship. However did you find such a thing?”

“Made it myself,” the earth pony said as she came out from the backroom, brandishing a pie. “Earth bender, talent is crafting. Every so often I go out and find some materials and bring them up to make these fancy trinkets. Gotta admit, since the sun came up business has been a lot better.”

“I'd imagine so. How much f-”

“It's yours,” the mare said again as she started slicing up the pie.

“W-what? I couldn't! I mean, it must cost a-”

“Nonsense! For the ponies who brought home my Littlewing I... hey... Littlewing? Oh not again,” the mare face hoofed. “I swear I need to put a bell on that colt.”

“I think he ran upstairs. Would you like me to get him?” Rarity asked as she started towards them.

“No, he is always running off like that,” the mare said with a chuckle. “Always bringing home weird flowers and plants, I don't know why. When I was that age I was always more interested in dirt than what grew in it. I guess that must be the pegasus in him. What brings you to our humble town?” she asked as she slid the two slices of pie forward.

“We're after the avatar!” Rarity said quickly as she moved forward. “To-”

“Honor her,” Celestia interrupted. “We've heard of her return and we wish very much to meet the mare that will bring balance to the countries. We've traveled a fair distance, but I don't know if we'll ever catch her.”

“Huh, you know,” Gemcoat mumbled as she tapped on her chin a few times. “I think I might be able to help. Just a few weeks past there was talk of the avatar heading north towards the capital. A few soldiers from there passed by and gathered supplies for their detachment. Seemed they were taking prisoners there.”

“How long until the avatar will arrive?” Rarity asked as she leaned forward in excitement.

The mare shrugged, “I don't know? She could be there now, or she could be there in a month. If you wanna head up that way, I could give you some directions. Actually, you're in luck. Heading north from here towards it you'll come across Sweet Apple Acres. I'd suggest you stop by and see if you can get some of their sweet apple cider. Best in all the countries.”

“We'll have to do that. We can make sure to... Nie- daughter? Where are you going?”

“If the avatar is headed there, we must leave immediately! Every moment we waste is a moment she slips further from my grasp!” the princess shouted as she stomped a hoof near the doorway.

Gemcoat stared for a few moments before bursting into laughter. “Your daughter is a bit of a firebrand, huh? No need to be in such a rush, deary. The avatar won't mind if you take one night to rest. Come, the moon is already out and I need to make some supper. After that you can get some sleep and leave first thing in the morning.”

“We should-” Rarity started.

“Accept graciously,” Celestia interrupted. “We can't keep traveling into the night, anyway. A proper nights sleep will do us good.”

“... Fine,” the young unicorn grumbled as she poked at her pie before finally taking a bite. “This is delicious. Does all your cooking taste this good?”

“Well, you'll just have to find out, won't you?” the green mare said as she trotted to the back.

Twilight struggled to keep her eyes open as she leaned against the fountain. Her friends sat beside her, their small group forming a circle. Occasionally one of them would say something as they tried to fight back the drowsiness, before finally laying down and trying to let sleep take them. Then the bone chilling howl would occur and the ponies and dragon would sit up, wide awake and too fearful to try again. Except for Pinkie. She was sleeping comfortably and sound, as if there wasn't some demonic ghost pony thing out there waiting to devour them whole.

The sound of hooves on stone behind the avatar made her whip around as her horn lit up. A gray coated pegasus, wearing a brown patchy shirt, stood behind them. “Quick, come!” he said as he turned and darted towards one of the houses and disappeared within.

Twilight nudged the others, even awakening Pinkie, before galloping towards the house. Within a few moments they were inside and the door closed behind them. The only light was a small candle by the door. “Thank you, we-” the mare was hushed as the stallion put a hoof over her mouth.

“Keep quiet,” he ordered before glancing through the window. After a few moments he sighed and turned around. “I'm sorry, children, but you should not have come to our cursed town.”

“Cursed? What are you talking about?” Twilight asked. “Where are we?”

“You've come to the town of Drowsy Void. I don't know what manner of horrible luck brought you here, but if you are wise you will leave when the sun rises.”

“Why? What's going on out here? We came through the woods and-”

“YOU WENT THROUGH THE WOODS?!” the stallion shouted before covering his mouth. “Oh dear. You ponies are lucky to be alive! Assuming... oh no,” he reached out and touched her cheeks. “You... don't feel cold, like death.”

“We're not dead. We're very much alive, I assure you,” Twilight said with a roll of her eyes. “Please, tell me, what is it that has everypony here so terrified? I'm the avatar, I can help you.”

The pony let out a sigh before shaking his head. He looked over the alicorn for a moment before sighing. “Very well, I imagine you... must be the avatar. This story is quite long though, so please follow me into the resting room,” the stallion mumbled as he walked into a large room, with a couch and a few chairs. He sat down in a large red one before waiting for the others to sit. “My name is Velveteye, mayor of Drowsy Void. Our village is on the border of the Forest of Spirits. In ages past, ponies from all over the four countries would come to our village to offer tribute and pray for their dead. A few avatars had even come here at times for meditation and... well, I'll get to that in a bit. The point is, we lived in harmony with the spirits of the forest. In a way, they protected us. Even during the war none of the Water Nation forces could make it through the woods to attack us, and the only way here was either from farther inland or going around the forest itself, not a short journey on hoof. Then the sun rose,” the pony went silent as his gaze turned to the ground.

“What happened?” Twilight asked nervously.

“We were finally attacked by the Water Nation. We have a number of benders and the force was weak, so we managed to push them back. We thought that would be the end of it, but we were wrong. They... triggered something in the forest. A monster. A demon. It comes in the night, taking whatever it pleases. Food, clothing. It has almost taken our children at times.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Well, obviously it's just one of the Water Nation's tricks. Probably trying to scare you all off and-”

“No!” the pony snapped as he shook his head. “We thought that as well...” The stallion's hooves began to shake as he looked at them, his eyes wide with fright. “We... we went into the woods. Intent on driving this creature out. We thought it was the water benders, attempting to scare us. But the things we saw... it was a demon. It looked like one pony. But it had glowing green eyes like a demon. The dead themselves rose up. I watched as ponies, corpses of those I had known long ago, rose from the ground to attack us. Dozens of spirits, monsters, the things it summoned... it was a miracle we all made it back home safe and sound. Had we stayed and attempted to fight such a creature, we would have all perished.”

Twilight nodded slowly. “I see. How could such a thing exist though? Maybe a few spirits could be controlled, but the undead? Ponies can't do magic like that.”

Velveteye let out another sigh. “I'm afraid it is because of the greatest secret the forest protects, Avatar,” he muttered as he turned to look out the window into the darkness beyond. “This monster must possess the Alicorn Amulet.” Lightning crashed above, making the ponies all jump.

After a few moments to regather themselves, Twilight gulped and stared at him. “The Alicorn Amulet? What is that?”

“A powerful tool of the avatar,” the stallion looked around nervously, as if he expected somepony to be spying on them. “It gives the wielder untold power, the power of the avatar. With it an earth bender could move cities, a fire bender could control the sun and a healer could bring a pony back from the brink of death. Many avatars have come to gather it when the need was great enough, but always returned it when the time came. The Water Nation even attempted to steal it, but were unable to face the powerful spirits that protected it.”

Twilight nodded before looking to her friends. “I'm sorry, but if all this is true I must-”

“One step ahead of you, Twilight,” Rainbow said with a smirk. “We're gonna kick some evil monster butt tomorrow.”

“But-”

“WE! Not YOU,” the pegasus snapped with a glare. “Are we clear?”

“I understand, but-”

“I am your air bending teacher and this is not up for discussion. Got it?”

“Yes ma'am!” the avatar said with a soft squeak. She then glanced to Pinkie who was, of all things, giggling. “What's so funny?”

“Huh? Oh, nothing, nothing at all,” the pink mare said with a giggle as she hopped about. “Just something funny.”

“Of course,” Twilight shook her head before smiling to the mayor. “Tomorrow at dawn we will set out to defeat this creature. But, in the mean time, do you have somewhere we can rest?” Her stomach rumbled as her cheeks turned red. “A-and perhaps something we could eat?”

Rarity groaned as she curled up in her blanket on the small, thin cushion she had been given. It was far from comfortable, but at least it was warm. Sleep forsake her, so when she felt a soft poke on her hip it didn't take her long to respond. “Hmmm?”

“Princess Rarity?” an all to familiar voice caught her attention.

Her eyes shot open as she stared at Littlewing. “W-what? No. I have no idea who-”

“Shhhhh,” the small colt whispered. “I know who you are. Don't worry, I am a member of the powerful Water Nation as well. An escaped spy.”

“O-oh,” she whispered as she looked around. Her aunt was across the room, sleeping soundly wrapped in her blanket. “How did you-”

“No time for that,” the colt mumbled. “I need your help.”

“My help? What for?” Rarity asked as she slowly got to her hooves.

“We must prepare for an attack from the Water Nation. I have a plan that can help us capture this entire town by ourselves.”

“Capture an entire town? But how-”

“Come on, with two pairs of hooves this will go faster.”

“But what about my aunt? She-”

“She won't understand,” the pegasus snapped. “I've seen her in action. She's too kind and merciful. She'll never accept betraying these ponies for the glory of our country. Imagine the honor, the celebrations, capturing a town in this kingdom and giving our armies a hoofhold. We'd be heroes. Especially after all the territory we have lost since the sun arose...”

Rarity thought for a moment before nodding. “Very well, let's go.” She got to her hooves and tip toed after the pegasus as they headed outside.

“The moon's glow should be enough. I need a number of herbs to put my plan into action. You're a water bender, correct?”

“Of course,” Rarity said with a prideful smile. “In fact, I have mastered a number of the forms.”

“Perfect. That will be useful in a few nights. For now, come with me. We'll head into the fields to the north. Most of what I need can be found around their. We're searching for special flowers. They're called moon's tears. They glow a light blue in the moonlight. If you see any glowing blue bugs, you'll know the flowers are close.”

“Okay. What do you plan to use them for?”

“I'm a master at creating potions and other things, I can use these to give us a significant edge. Don't worry, we'll be praised as heroes once we're done.”

Rarity nodded as she trotted after him, though she couldn't help but feel a knot in her stomach. She looked around nervously, but she didn't see anypony watching them. She finally shook her head. “You're letting your imagination get away from you...” she mumbled.

“What was that?” Littlewing asked.

“Nothing, just thinking to myself,” the princess mumbled.

From the window of the small shop behind them, Celestia watched. After a few moments she shook her head and sighed. “Oh niece, I pray you will soon learn...”

The sun rose over the small town of Drowsy Void as ponies slowly began to rise from their beds and head outside. The ponies began their daily chores, be it fieldwork or woodwork. Though nopony said a word about it, the occasional glance would still be spared towards the forest that bordered their home, the shadows of the trees ominously warning of the dangers within.

Twilight and her friends, after filling up with a delicious breakfast of applespice oatmeal, stood outside the treeline and gazed defiantly in. Except for Pinkie, who was too busy hopping around and lightly singing her song. “Giggle at the ghostly, guffaw at the grossly...”

“Pinkie, will you calm down?” Rainbow grumbled as she looked inside. “You're distracting.”

“Hee hee, sorry. Just getting ready for my song,” the mare said chipperly. “Let's go!”

Spike shook his head. “How does she always act so happy no matter what monsters we're facing?”

“Oh, she's not a... hmmmm. Should I work on my trance song first? I wonder which one I'll use first. Maybe I should peek ahead again...”

“... Right,” Twilight mumbled with a roll of her eyes. “Let's go.” She stepped into the forest and, almost instantly, a bone chilling howl filled the air. She gulped and shook her head. “Okay, we've dealt with spirits before. Whoever this pony is controlling them can't be any worse than Trixie.”

“You don't think it's her, do you?” Rainbow asked as she looked around. Everything looked normal and serene. A bunny hopped by, the plants were bright green and filled with life and a butterfly was lazily floating around through some streaks of sunlight. Still, there was an odd chill in the air that nudged at them, a silent threat against them.

“No,” the avatar said with a shake of her head. “She was far too arrogant. She wouldn't stop at just stealing food and resources. She wouldn't be happy until she turned the entire village into nothing more than a small dent in the ground. I'm sure whatever... it is, will be far easier to deal with.”

“Probably won't take an entire book, either!” Pinkie added helpfully as she hopped around.

“I'm not scared at all,” Spike said as he crossed his arms and rode on the alicorn's back. “Why, if anything comes at us I'll-”

“Get out!” a loud voice boomed, the sound echoing around them as if it came from everywhere at once.

The group froze as Fluttershy let out a little squeak. “W-what was that?”

“J-just the wind,” the little dragon said nervously as he looked around. The forest, which once looked warm and inviting, was beginning to look dark and treacherous. A thick fog began to form around them, shrouding the area in its embrace.

“Something's... odd about this fog,” Twilight mumbled as she looked around. She backed up to the others as the sun was blotted out. They began to hear things moving about, light skittering sounds and groans. Leaves began to rustle as another ghostly wail tore around them.

“What's that?!” Rainbow shrieked as a number of shadows began moving inside the mist. They began moving closer as the ponies squinted in an attempt to see. Finally one came into view as the ponies let out a collective scream and ran.

The shadow revealed itself to be an empty skull connected to a skeletons frame. As the ponies ran a boney hoof was lifted up, reaching for them.

The ponies ran as fast as they could, screaming the entire way, until they leaped from the woods and landed in a pile on the grass. They looked back with wide, fearful eyes. After a few moments to gather their breaths, Spike spoke up. “Hey, where's Pinkie?”

Rarity groaned as she rolled around on her small cushion. Something was distracting her, drawing her attention. She just couldn't focus on it. Slowly her eyes popped open as the world seemed to slightly spin around her dazed self. “What is that... delightful smell?” It was sweet with just a hint of sour. She slowly rolled onto her hooves and sniffed the air. Licking her lips, the mare trotted towards the door and headed downstairs to the main room of the shop.

“Ah, you're awake,” Celestia said, not looking up as she sat across from Gemcoat, the two playing a small board game and drinking tea. “Did you have trouble sleeping last night?”

“A bit. Ugh, those cushions were horrible, they... errrr...” Rarity froze as she looked at the saddened earth pony. “I mean, thank you for letting us stay in your home. It was quite... generous of you.”

“I'm sorry they weren't as nice as they could be,” Gemcoat said with a hurt smile. “I don't have many visitors who stay the night anymore. Still, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what I have planned for breakfast.”

“Oh? Is that what that scent was?” the fallen princess struggled to keep from drooling. “It smells simply divine. What is it?”

“Blackberry pancakes. A friend of mine brought in a whole bushel of them just the other day. They're Littlewing's favorites so I have all manner of treats prepared for him. Speaking of, is he awake yet?”

“Hmmm? I think he's still asleep.”

The earth pony chuckled as she shook her head. “I'll never understand how that boy keeps up like that. Running around all day, going to bed so early and then sleeping until noon. I'll let him sleep a bit longer, pancakes won't be up for a while yet. There's some blackberry juice if you're thirsty,” the mare said as she motioned towards a pitcher and some glasses.

“Mmm hmmm,” Rarity mumbled as she poured herself a glass. She took a sip of the drink as her eyes bulged. “This... this is marvelous! How do you... hmm?” she glanced into the backroom and saw a few open boxes and a large clear canister filled with a blue mix. “Is that the pancake batter? How many of those do you plan to make?”

“Nah. Makin' extra for about half the town. This flu bug is really bad on a lot of the ponies here,” the mare mumbled as she trotted past the unicorn towards the wood stove. “Should be warm enough now.” She poured a little oil on the top before dipping some of the batter on. “Gonna be nice when all this clears up and ponies can get back to work.”

“Mmmm, it smells simply amazing...” the young princess said again as she sniffed the air. “How long will it take to finish?”

“Not long. I'll make yours and your mothers first before I take the shipments out.”

“Nonsense!” Celestia said as she popped around the bend. “After breakfast we can deliver the pancakes. After all you've done for us, it is the least we could do. However, after that I believe my daughter wants us to leave.”

“What? NO!” Rarity said quickly as both ponies turned to stare at her. “I-I mean... errr... I think we could stay for a few days. Just a few. After all, with all the sick ponies I'm sure they could use a bit of help around here. Right?”

“Well, if you all don't mind, I'd certainly appreciate it,” Gemcoat said with a chuckle.

The elder unicorn glanced to her niece and narrowed her eyes. “Yes, I see. Well, Diamondeye, if you're feeling so... patient, I feel no reason to rush...”

Pinkie hopped across a small stream, jumping from bank to bank as she hummed. The mist had long cleared up and she now found herself deeper in the forest. Despite being separated from her friends she didn't appear frightened in the slightest.

“Come out, come out wherever you are,” she sung to herself as she hopped about a few more times. “Hee hee. Don't worry, we'll be the best of friends!”

Another howl cut through the woods as she turned towards it. She giggled gleefully as she began to hop happily towards the sound.

High above in the treeline, two glowing green eyes watched the pink pony as she made her way into the woods. After a few more seconds a ferocious growl filled the air as the mist began to roll towards the hopping earth pony.

Chapter 6: Kinsmen Lost

Rarity hummed happily as she worked, trotting from home to home while delivering pancakes. The ponies were all happy to accept them, though she couldn't help but frown at their conditions. Many of the ponies were thin and bony, struggling to stand. A few she even had to feed herself, nearly getting thrown up on in the process. Though, the happy smiles and grateful thanks made the effort worthwhile. About halfway through the trip she stopped as Littlewing appeared in front of her.

“Your highness, may I speak with you?” the pegasus asked.

The mare grinned, her ego helpfully inflated. She trotted to his side. “Of course. What is it, Littlewing?”

“You've been seeing the ponies around here, right? How do they look?”

“Dreadfully ill. I'm not sure what sickness has embraced this town, but I do trust these ponies will need medical attention once we capture the town.”

“... I doubt it,” the pegasus mumbled. “So, pretty weak then? I see. Perfect.”

“What do you mean? Do you know what's causing this?”

“Of course. I've been poisoning their water supply. Most the ponies here are suffering from the initial stage of-”

“WHAT?!” Rarity hissed as she glared into the smaller pony's eyes. “You've been poisoning them?” she whispered. “How could you? These ponies helped you, they-”

“They are from the Earth Kingdom. I have no loyalty to them,” Littlewing said casually as he looked her up and down. “Neither do you. Did you forget who your mother is?”

“I know who my mother is, but-”

“This town is full of the enemy. It is our job to disable them for the Water Nation, is it not?”

Rarity slowly nodded before sighing. “Yes. It is. I merely forgot myself for a moment.”

“I know. I still have more herbs I need to gather. Do you wish to help me?”

“Yes, of course. I'll come find you once I've finished delivering these pancakes,” she mumbled as she turned to trot off.

Littlewing watched her leave as his eyes narrowed. “Don't worry, princess,” he whispered to himself. “You won't need to worry about betraying anypony. You can just share their fate.”

Pinkie hopped about, jumping over large roots as she went. “You know, you almost had me there! I feel so silly, thinking it was her,” the mare said happily as she looked up. “But you cheated. Using a pony like that?” She hopped over a passing bunny with a gleeful giggle. “I almost fell for it. Then you separated us, tut tut. Soooo obvious.”

She stopped as her ears twitched a few times. “Awww, it's okay. No one expects me to be too surprised. But him of all ponies? Hee hee, this is going to be interesting. You sure it'll be okay, though? Everyone might get mad.”

The mare hopped over another branch as she giggled and looked off to the right. “Ohhh, there's the fog. He's not going to scream, is he? Oh, who am I kidding. Of course he's going to scream. Hmmm? No, I will not. You decided to be all bratty about it so-”

Twilight and the oth-

“Did you try to scene change me?!” Pinkie snapped angrily as she stomped a hoof down. “Oh, don't you start with that, I'm going to... no, no. Stop crying, it's okay. Just no causing any more trouble. Hee hee!” the pink mare hopped forward as the mist soon surrounded her.

“Get out!” the voice boomed.

“Nope!” the mare responded as continued to she hopped about. A ghostly wail tore through the air as shadows moved through the mist.

“Leave or face my wrath!” the voice echoed around her as she looked around.

“Let's see... eenie, meenie, miney... moe!” she said as she hopped off in a random direction. After a few moments the ground in front of her began to move about as a boney hoof burst from the ground. She hopped over it with another happy giggle.

Twilight gulped as she looked from side to side. “Anypony see anything?” she asked nervously as she slowly stepped through the forest.

“Nothing,” Spike squeaked.

“It's fine, there's nothing scary here,” Rainbow grumbled as she stuck close to the group, her hooves shaking. She whipped her head around to the right. “You hear that?!”

“Was that a scream? I think that was a mare's scream!” Twilight shrieked as she started running. “Pinkie!” The others followed after her, Spike holding onto Fluttershy's tail to keep up.

A moment later the scream came again. Rainbow frowned. “That wasn't Pinkie! I don't know who that was but... look, the mist!”

Many yards ahead of them the mist had once again gathered, enveloping the trees in its grasp. Twilight gulped nervously. “O-okay, no running this time. PINKIE!” she yelled out. “Are you in there?”

No sound came as they stepped forward. Flames formed on the alicorn's horn as she stepped into the mist once again. Rattling began to surround them as the three ponies stood back to back. “Okay, here they come!” Rainbow shouted as she spread out her wings and waited. Nothing happened. She flapped them quickly to try and blow away the mist, but it refused to move. “What is this stuff? Where are the skeletons?”

“Maybe there aren't any near here?” Spike offered. Another frightened shriek filled the air as the mist suddenly disappeared around them.

“What? How... what?” Twilight said as she glanced around nervously. “Where did it go?”

“I don't know. The rattling is gone too,” Rainbow growled as she looked around wildly. “A water bender trick?”

“Maybe,” Twilight said as she kept looking around. “Never seen mist evaporate that quickly, but get ready for an attack, just in case. There is no way that was natural.”

Fluttershy whimpered as she looked around. “W-what if there r-really are spirits o-of the dead here?”

“If there are, we'll put them to rest,” the avatar said firmly. “Come on, let's track down that scream.”

Rarity frowned as she plucked small yellow budded plants from the ground. She slowly trotted to a small cloth and dropped them on top. Littlewing nodded as he ground the flowers into a thin paste. He glanced up after a moment. “You know, at this rate I think I may have enough to finish my plan tonight.”

“Wonderful,” the unicorn said as she trotted off before returning with green flowers. “This will enable you to weaken them, before we pull in our forces?”

“Hmmm? No, not quite,” the pegasus mumbled as he motioned her over.

“What is it?” she asked as he motioned down to some small specks of golden dust.

“Weakening them wouldn't be enough. Benders could still cause a problem. This toxin will be mixed with their water supply and, tomorrow when they drink, the lot of them will be dead by dusk.”

“W-what?” Rarity asked as her mouth fell open.

“It had to be slow acting. By the time the weak ones begin dying they'll have already had some. When I finish, the smallest drop could kill a pony in a manner of seconds, even touching it can be toxic. But distilled to the right measurements and... well... it can take hours.”

“NO!” the mare snapped as she shook her head. “You can't kill them, you- grrkk!” She fell suddenly as she felt a light prick on her left hoof. Her eyes went wide as she stared at him.

The pegasus rolled his eyes as he held up a small needle in his hoofshoe. “Don't worry,” he whispered as he shoved her into the grass. “Your death will be painless. You'll just feel like falling asleep and then you'll be gone, don't fight it...” He then turned and trotted away towards the village, the plants bagged and slung across his back.

Pinkie hummed as she stopped in front of a small clearing in the forest. Only a little grass grew in it and a long abandoned castle stood within, covered in moss and vines. Directly in front of the entrance was a large patch of dirt which had a number of small piles. She moved over and nudged a small pile of dirt before unburying it slightly. She found an apple core and quickly shook her head. “Silly billy... hmmm?” She glanced up at the large castle entrance way. Standing where a door once stood, a small cloaked pony watched her. Through the darkness of the hood, a pair of dragon-like green eyes glared at her.

“You have intruded in my home. GET OUT!” the ponies voice boomed as the mist began to swirl from behind it. “Leave before I destroy you!” The ground around them began to crackle as bony hooves began to rise from the ground.

Pinkie giggled as she hopped forward and stood directly in front of him. She reached out under the hood as the pony within made a little eek. A moment later the bones and mist disappeared.

“H-hey! You can't, that's cheating!” the hooded pony snapped. “I mean... begone foul wench! I will destroy you and HEY! Stop flicking my horn!”

“Well, stop being a meany butt,” the pink mare said with a grin.

“I'm the powerful and destructive stop that! How would you like it if I flicked your hooves, huh? Or your nose? You wouldn't like it at all, would you?” the voice squeaked angrily.

“Oh, just relax. Everypony knows you're not HER now. Take off the hood,” she reached out to grab it, but the pony jumped away.

“You... stop it! Be afraid, I will summon the ghosts of... EEEEK!” the cloaked pony let out a shrill shriek as the earth pony hopped after her. Given no alternative the undead summoning pony turned tail and ran away, pursued closely by the hopping mare.

Twilight continued forward in pursuit of the scream she heard. “Come on girls, I think we're almost... there... what?” She stopped short as she turned a tree and saw one of the strangest things she'd ever seen.

Dozens of disembodied floating pony heads circled the air as undead skeleton ponies rose from the earth. In the midst of all this was Pinkie Pie, hopping around as if untold horrors didn't surround her. She pursued another pony, wrapped in a dark cloak, who was busy shrieking as a powerful voice boomed.

“Begone! I will destroy you! Leave me be! I will raise the corpses of a hundred ponies and monsters you never imagined!”

Twilight stared as she brought a hoof to her chin and rubbed. She cringed as the pink earth pony stomped on one of the skeletons and... just went through it. The alicorn gasped as her eyes went wide. “Of course! It all makes sense!”

“W-what? How is that pony raising the dead like that?” Spike asked as he looked back. Rainbow was just staring in bewilderment at their strang friend while Fluttershy looked like she would faint at any second from the horrors waiting down there for them.

“They aren't! It's an illusion! That's why the mist seemed so odd earlier, it was fake!” the alicorn said proudly. “I thought it was weird, it wasn't moving much when we moved and... well, that's not important now. That's not a necromancer or somepony controlling spirit animals. That's an illusionist.”

“... Okay, so why is he or she so terrified of Pinkie?” Rainbow asked with a cocked eye.

“Because... I... ummm... don't know,” the alicorn mumbled as she rubbed her chin some more. “Because Pinkie?”

“Good enough for me. Hiya!” Rainbow yelled as she took off into the air and dive-bombed the pony. She hit the poor cloaked figure, hooves first, in the center of the back. Unsurprisingly, the pony went down hard as all the spirits disappeared. The pegasus smirked as she tore off the cloak. “Let's see who you really are!”

Beneath the cloak was a black coated unicorn stallion. He cowered, his hooves over his head as he curled into a little ball. “I'm sorry please don't hurt me!” he squealed. Through his dark purple mane the imprint of Rainbow's hooves could be seen dug into his back.

The pegasus sighed and moved up to him, grabbing him by the horn and jamming the side of his head into the ground. “Okay, buster. You put a lot of effort into scaring the others, not me obviously, and I wanna know why. We can do this the easy way, or the fun way. Well, fun for me.” The mare looked down with a wicked grin.

“I'll tell you whatever you want, p-please. D-don't kill me,” the stallion whimpered softly as he slowly looked up. His eyes weren't green, nor were they draconic, instead just a mundane purple.

“Fine. We'll see. First off, are you a Water Nation soldier?”

“Y-yes.”

“Another water bender, wonderful. Don't even think of trying to bend. I'm a master level air bender. I've taken out more than a few of your kind, got it?” Rainbow asked as she glared down at him, tapping lightly on the ground. “I see so much as a spark from your horn and I'll knock you through a tree.”

“W-wait! I-I can't bend! Honest,” the unicorn said weakly. “I-I'm a member of the earth pony division! Hoofsoldier Shadowhoof, E896 company.”

“Right, sure you are,” Rainbow snapped as she raised her hoof. “I told you if you lied I was going to-”

“Rainbow, wait!” Twilight yelled as she and the others caught up. “There's no need to hurt him. He's-”

“A member of the Water Nation. Who supposedly can't bend.”

“... No need to hurt him, yet,” the alicorn mumbled as she glared down at the cowering unicorn. “Where are the rest of your group? How about Flim and Flam? Only a day and they're already running another scam?”

“Hey, Twilight?” Spike asked as he rode in on Fluttershy's back. “Hasn't this pony been attacking for weeks? I don't think this is a new scam.”

“I guess you're right...” the alicorn mumbled again as she returned her gaze to the unicorn. “Only one unicorn though? I guess this was just another trick they were trying. He's probably not aware he ran his bosses out of here.”

Pinkie just giggled as she hopped about. “He's from the Water Nation though,” she said helpfully.

“He can't water bend, how could he be from the Water Nation?” Rainbow said as she looked up. “All of the Water Nation unicorns can bend, just like all of the Wind Tribe pegasi can air bend.”

“Ummmm...” Fluttershy squeaked as she raised a hoof. “I can't...”

“Well, maybe not necessarily well... but still.”

“I-it's not that,” the pony squeaked. “I-I can't use any magic besides illusions, not even telekinesis! It's a genetic d-defect, it's why I was in the earth pony divisions!” He quickly put his hooves over his head as they turned to him. “P-please don't hurt me a-anymore. I-I can prove I'm from there, I-I swear I'm not lying.”

Rainbow sighed before nodding. “Fine, get up. Take us to your hide out. Any funny business and you'll have bruises on more than just your back.”

“Yes sir!” Shadowhoof said as he got to his hooves and started walking back towards the castle, occasionally glancing back nervously.

The pegasus moved up to the alicorn and whispered. “You think he's really from the Water Nation? Wouldn't surprise me to find out he's just another trick from those brothers.”

“Maybe,” Twilight whispered as she watched the stallion. “But he might be useful. If he's been living in these woods for a while he might have some information on the Alicorn Amulet. Assuming it really exists and isn't just a story. He might be the only living pony who has any actual experience within the woods.”

“And if he's with those others?”

“... I don't know. Either way he'll likely be imprisoned for his crimes. But I swear, if he was responsible for killing those ponies...”

“If he's a member of the Water Nation, he's likely killed somepony,” Rainbow added harshly.

Rarity groaned as she stared up at the daytime sky. Clouds moved lazily by over her. She didn't know how long she had been here, or how long it would take before she gave in. The mare tried to move her hooves, but nothing. All she could do was make soft, gurgling noises as she looked around. Already the unicorn was beginning to feel the hints of drowsiness tug at her eyelids, but she refused to allow herself to surrender. She was a princess of the invincible Water Nation. She would not be killed by one of her soldiers. She would not die before she captured the avatar. Regained her honor. Stopped that pegasus from slaughtering those innocent ponies.

She closed her eyes for a moment as she tried to think. She had to do something. Anything. She needed to focus. The unicorn felt so comfortable, though. Maybe a short nap would help her clear her mind.

Rarity's eyes shot open as she let out another gurgling sound. “Grggggll...” She would not fall, not now, not here!

Not far from the struggling mare, Littlewing trotted back into the village, confident in his success. He stopped short as Celestia walked in front of him. “Ah, Littlewing, your mother is searching for you.”

“Huh? Oh, uhhh, I should go see what she wants,” he said quickly as he tried to go around her, but one of her hooves stopped him.

“Hold for a moment. I saw you leave with my daughter, Diamondeye. Why is she not with you?” the elder unicorn asked as she stared down at him, appearing quite calm.

“Oh, she wanted to look around a bit more. Guess she wanted to go check out the wild life a bit,” he smiled up at her as he fiddled with his hoof for a moment. The needle slowly popped out from the bottom of his horseshoe, but he retracted it a moment later. His eyes were drawn to a nearby window, one of a dozen or so that looked over them. He shook his head and began to trot off. “I really should go see what she wants.”

“Of course,” Celestia mumbled as she watched the colt pass. “Remember, Littlewing. When you go out you must be careful. It would be terrible if something were to happen to you.” The moment the colt disappeared into the shop, the unicorn turn and galloped out of the town. She shook her head as she moved across the path. “Diamondeyes! Where are you?”

“S-see?” Shadowhoof said as he motioned to a neat stack of the Water Nation's armor. “Armor from my division.”

Twilight nudged it and shook her head. “It's in such horrible shape. The helmet is almost damaged beyond repair. Not to mention the entire thing looks almost two sizes too big for your... much smaller frame. No offense.”

The unicorn sighed. “It's... it was made for an earth pony. The helmet had to be... broken to be worn and the armor itself is designed for bulkier frames.”

“Uh huh,” Rainbow mumbled as she turned and bucked the armor across the room. “This proves nothing. If you can't water bend, how can you possibly be a member of them? I think he's just trying to hide what he's been up to. Besides, you heard the mayor. He's tried foalnapping children too!”

“What? NO!” Shadowhoof squeaked as he cowered on the ground. “I-I didn't, I wasn't trying to foalnap them! I tried to scare them off back towards town! They were lost! I-I was trying to do the same to you! I wasn't trying to hurt anypony I swear!”

“You were trying to scare us off?!” the pegasus growled as she took a step closer.

“N-no! You looked lost. I just led you to the town. I-I figured you'd go there and then leave, I-I didn't think you'd come back...”

“Sure you were, I bet you were trying to lead us off a cliff or-”

“ENOUGH!” Twilight yelled. She turned to the stallion. “Okay. So you say you're one of the Water Nation soldiers, how did you end up here then? How did you end up as a member of an earth pony division?”

“I-I was drafted,” the stallion mumbled as he hung his head. “I suffer from a birth defect, Rumpitrcornutis. My horn doesn't... work right. It gives me great ability in the narrow field of talent that it falls under, illusions, but any other magic I can't perform. Even magic any unicorn should be able to do. Since I couldn't use telekinesis or water bending, I was put with the earth pony division...”

“Well, that's weird,” Twilight mumbled. “Why would-”

“It's an insult,” Shadowhoof interrupted. “Any pony who... is defective is put along side the earth ponies. It is the largest insult that can be cast on a member of the Water Nation.”

“Hey! We're awesome!” Pinkie objected. “Even if we can't do awesome bending or magic or fly, we can do lots of really cool things.”

“I'm s-sorry,” the soldier mumbled as he shook his head. “I-I don't necessarily agree with those... views. It's just the way it is. We were sent in as a... suicide force. To soften up the defenses of that town before the main force arrived. When we found out the main force wasn't arriving for a few weeks we were forced to... try and capture it on our own. I ran away.”

“Wait,” Twilight said as she turned to look out the door. “So there's another force, a larger force, coming to attack?”

“Well, yes. Eventually. It was delayed, but it was far larger and had far more benders than the initial force. Not to mention any survivors of my division.”

The alicorn sighed before shaking her head. “That's not good. We need to head back and warn everypony.”

“What about him?” Spike asked as he motioned to the stallion.

“I guess we'll have to take him with us. If he's telling the truth, he'll know best about how to stop these invaders. Come on, get up,” Twilight said as she held out her hoof.

“Please don't,” Shadowhoof whispered as he closed his eyes. “If... if I go there, they'll kill me. I'm a member of the Water Nation. I know what will happen if I'm found in the Earth Kingdom. I... I'll leave. I'll run somewhere far away. W-whatever you want. I never wanted to be a part of this war.”

“Not a chance!” Rainbow snapped. “If we leave him alone, he'll run straight to the rest of his unit and tell them everything.”

“I-I won't, I swear! Please, you can leave somepony with me. Don't take me to them, they'll kill me!” the stallion begged as he backed away.

“No, you're coming-”

“I'll stay,” Pinkie offered.

“Huh?” Rainbow asked as she stared at the mare.

“I'll stay,” the earth pony repeated. “Don't worry, I can handle him. Besides, he won't do anything bad, isn't that right?” she asked as she gave the frightened pony a hug. His face turned bright red as he nodded.

“Are you sure? We don't know if he actually can water bend or not,” Rainbow mumbled.

“Yeah, but he was running from her, terrified and screaming like a filly,” Spike reminded them. “I doubt he'll be willing to go against her.”

“Fine, it's settled,” Twilight said as she got to her hooves and headed towards the door. “We'll be back soon. Shadowhoof, if you try ANYTHING!” she growled as she turned to glare at him, flame forming on the top of her horn. “I will find you. No matter where you try to hide. Understand?”

He squeaked and nodded quickly. “Y-yes ma'am. I won't try anything.” The three ponies, and dragon, looked off to the distance before galloping off.

“So, wanna play a game?” Pinkie offered with a friendly smile.

Celestia slowly walked the road, her eyes scanning left and right for anything out of the ordinary. She struggled to keep herself from galloping off in a blind panic, desperate to find her niece. Calm, steady breaths were all she allowed herself as she searched high and low for her niece.

She saw a few hoof prints and quickly looked through the nearby grass. She found nothing, but a few uprooted plants. “Oh niece, where are you?” she mumbled. She continued down the path as a low groan reached her ears. “Diamondeye?” she called out.

A moment later the groan repeated. She once again dove into the grass, ignoring the blades as they tickled her stomach. After a few moments she found her niece, limp on the ground with a bit of drool trailing from her mouth. The poor young princess's eyes squinted at the sky.

Celestia frowned as she slowly sat down and placed her hooves on her body. Her horn began to glow as she chewed on her lower lip. “I know, niece. Do not worry. I will help you, remove the... impurities. I do not know how long this will take, however. Do not give in, do not allow yourself to stop fighting...” she whispered as her magical aura enveloped the young mare.

Rarity just stared up, her vision blurry as she struggled to see what was moving her. Her aunt's voice was heard, though she couldn't understand the words. She felt so tired as she closed her eyes for a moment. A quick shake brought her back. All she wanted was to sleep, but she knew she couldn't. As she felt an odd sensation through her body, she struggled against sleeps powerful grip. She had to keep fighting, even if she couldn't remember why.

Twilight galloped free of the woods and quickly looked around. The Drowsy Void's ponies were gathered near the barren fountain. One called out and pointed to her as she waved. The herd galloped towards them and began bombarding her with questions.

“Did you vanquish the spirit?”

“Did you defeat the summoner?”

“Are the woods safe again?”

“Calm down!” Rainbow yelled as she flew up into the air. “Give Twilight a chance to speak!”

After a few moments the crowd went silent as they stared at the avatar expectantly. She cleared her voice and began. “Okay, everypony. We tracked down the pony responsible and well, they aren't real. The pony was an illusionist and he-” Once again the crowd began raising their voices in anger.

“QUIET!” the rainbow-maned pegasus yelled as she sent a powerful gust of wind to the ground, nearly toppling the herd over. They quickly went silent.

“Now, as I was saying,” Twilight continued, “the pony is an illusionist. While I'll admit they are quite... realistic, they had no physical effect. I need information though. When the Water Nation attacked, were there any water benders with them? Or were they mostly earth ponies? Most importantly, did any pony SEE them bend water?”

The mayor, Velveteye, stepped forward. “Yes, there were. I'll never forget it. Their force was comprised namely of earth ponies, but they did have a few water benders. They... killed a few of our ponies with their water bending. Why?”

“That's bad,” the avatar mumbled. “That, unfortunately, means there is another force that will arrive later to try and finish the job. That seemed to have been meant to soften you up.”

The crowd began to stir again as soft wails of fear filled the air. Rainbow let out a low growl and the crowd fell silent.

“But, I have a plan. We can launch a preemptive strike and drive them away. The illusionist was a member of their militia and may know where they are hiding. We can ask him to help us-”

“WHAT?!” a pony in the crowd yelled. “You want to ask for help from one of those monsters?!”

“We should hang him,” another pony called out. “Not ask him for help!”

The crowd began nodding and grumbling in agreement, even a burst of Rainbow's wings didn't silence them as their anger blazed. Finally, Twilight formed a ball of flame on the tip of her horn and sent it flying into the air, exploding like a firecracker. “ENOUGH!” she yelled. “Like it or not, this pony is our only real chance of finding where they are unless you want to comb everywhere for miles! If you don't want to help, you don't need to. We'll deal with the Water Nation ourselves.” She turned and stormed of, her hooves stomping into the ground with each step.

Pinkie stared forward with wide eyes as a large manticore stared back, letting out a mighty roar. A moment later a brown pegasus landed on the back of the beast and threw a rope forward, wrapping around the creature's head. It began bucking and jumping around, trying to dislodge the flying pony.

“Then, with a powerful tug, the pegasus turned the creature towards the door and sent it charging forward, towards freedom!” Shadowhoof said as the two figures struggled a while longer before the manticore began running away from them and through a large steel door that materialized in front of them. “With her freedom earned, the pegasus flew off after her friends to warn them.” The pegasus looked around for a moment before flying away and off the manticore's back. Both disappeared a second later. “So, what did you think?”

“Ohhhh, I liked it!” Pinkie said as she clapped her hooves together. “Did you come up with it yourself?”

“No,” the stallion mumbled. “I... well, part of it. I overheard some of the others in my battalion talking about a pegasus who beat a whole water bending division by herself. I added a lot and wanted to make it a story. Cause stories are my... nevermind.”

Pinkie chuckled and shook her head. “It's okay, I liked it. Besides, we're friends now! No need to be such a saddy waddy, be a happy smiley!” the pink mare said as she reached out and gripped the corners of his mouth, pulling them up into a smile. “Seeee? Now you look all happy!”

The stallion chuckled with a wince. “Please stop, that kinda hurts.” As the mare let go he rubbed his cheeks, though he couldn't stop from smiling.

“If you like telling stories so much, why couldn't you try doing that?”

Shadowhoof frowned as he poked the ground. “It doesn't... work like that in the Water Nation. I couldn't water bend, so I was considered an earth pony. Disposable. Other unicorns didn't want to associate with me because of that. The earth ponies in my division would barely talk to me, because of how the benders treated them. I doubt any pony in my unit even knew I could do illusions, let alone cared or wanted to hear stories from a disgraced pony like myself,” he muttered sadly. “Though, on occasion there would be another disgraced unicorn or even pegasus in our unit and we could get along well. Earth pony soldier's life expectancy wasn't very long, though. I think only a hoofful ever made it to retirement.”

Pinkie frowned as she gave him a tight hug.

“W-what? Why are you... errr...”

“Everypony needs a hug sometimes,” she said with a smile before letting him go. “Besides, the other countries aren't like that at all! I don't have any bending or those special magics, and they've never treated me any different.”

“That sounds really nice,” he said as he looked towards the roof. “I heard the Water Nation used to be like that too. They considered all the ponies to be equal. It wasn't until the war that everything became like... this.”

“Then maybe when my job is done, everything can be back to normal,” Twilight said as she walked in from the gate. “As it is now, I need your help.”

“Ack!” The stallion took a step back as he looked to the mare. “H-how can I be of service? Please don't hurt me...”

“... I won't. I have no intention of harming you or anypony else. But, I need your help to find the other Water Nation soldiers. You do know where they'd be hiding to prepare for another assault, correct?”

“Where they are... no. I'm afraid I wouldn't know. They'd have moved since our attack. They could be anywhere.”

“You do know their procedures though, correct?” Twilight asked. “The things they'd look for in a hiding place?”

“Well, yes. Of course,” the pony said nervously.

“Good. Will you help me find them? Please,” the mare said as she took a step forward.

“I...” the stallion squirmed a little before nodding. “On one condition.”

“And that is?”

“Once I show you, please let me go. I know I can't stay here any more, but I can't go home. I need to... find somewhere else I belong. Please.”

“Fine,” Twilight mumbled as she turned around and trotted out from the castle. “Let's move fast.”

Shadowhoof nodded as he grabbed his cloak and put it on, though he left the hood down. After a moment he followed after her.

The sun began to dip behind the hills as Rarity finally felt movement return to her body. Celestia stood over the mare, panting and sweat dripping from her body as she kept working her magic. The younger mare slowly began sitting up, groaning as she looked down. A small pool of blood had formed under her. She felt weak, but alive, as she slowly got to her hooves and wobbled a bit. “A-are you okay? Aunty?”

“Y-yes. I just need... need to rest for a moment,” Celestia mumbled as she dropped backwards, eyes closed. “Just... just for a little bit.” A few seconds later the mare lost consciousness.

Rarity moved forward and reached a hoof out, but stopped. “No. Rest, aunty. You've done enough. I'll stop him.” The unicorn turned and galloped towards the town, though she stumbled and nearly fell a number of times. Before long she ran into the store and looked around. “Littlewing! Come out!” she yelled.

There was no response as she frowned and began searching the shop. He wasn't in any of the top floor rooms and she saw his room was missing most of his powders and plants. She headed back down to the ground floor and walked to the backroom. She saw a fresh pie and quickly took a slice, stuffing it into her mouth as she felt the sugar spread through her body and relieve some of the grogginess. She was halfway through it when it dropped from her magic. “Gemcoat!” she shrieked as she ran to the stove.

The earth pony was laying completely limp in front of it. Foam was dribbling from her mouth to form a small puddle. Rarity stood over the mare and leaned down, placing her ear to her chest. She pulled away and shook her head as she felt tears well up in her eyes. “Littlewing... how... how could you? She was... she took care of you. She treated you like her child. She even cooked you dinner and...” she growled as she stomped her hoof down and turned away. “I WILL find you Littlewing. I will stop you. I swear.”

The mare turned and ran out the door, looking left and right for any sign of the colt.

Twilight hunched down as best she could as she stared through the treeline. Camped out just outside the forest, hidden amongst a field of boulders, were dozens of ponies. “Is that the force that attacked you?” she asked as she looked back.

Behind her, Velveteye shook his head. “No, the force that assaulted our town was much smaller.” A few earth ponies stood behind him, though they occasionally looked to Shadowhoof and glared. “A force like that would have destroyed us. Maybe you should ask the... him, why they haven't.” He made a motion towards the cloaked pony.

“They're waiting for orders,” Shadowhoof said quickly. “They likely are afraid to attack your village. We've all heard... rumors, about the spirits that protect your village. I'd bet they're waiting for a direct order to begin an assault. Especially since they know you have earth benders.”

“Then why did they send that first assault? Why attack us at all?” the mayor asked.

“We're disposable,” the pony said with a sad sigh. “Somepony higher up decided they wanted your village captured and it was easier to test your defenses with an expendable unit than risk a bunch of water benders on an unknown force. Now they have an idea of what you have, and only lost a few earth ponies. No offense.”

The earth ponies in their group returned to glaring at him as the unicorn crouched down and gulped. “I... I can leave now? Right?” he asked weakly. “I mean, since... errr... I-I did what you wanted? You'll let me go, right?”

“What?!” Velveteye snapped, quickly covering his mouth as he lowered the volume. “Sorry. You can't mean to let him go. He's one of them, he'll alert them to us being here.”

“No, he won't,” Twilight mumbled as she watched the encampment. “There's too many of them from what I can see. Who knows how many are in the tents or hidden? Even if we tried a sneak attack we'd be decimated. Shadowhoof, do you think before you leave, you could help us?”

“H-help you? Against them? B-but they're my o-old unit! T-they'd kill me!” the stallion squeaked as he looked over at the ponies gathered around the camp fires.

“I know, but please,” the alicorn said as she reached out to nudge his side. “You don't have to do much. Just help us with a little... trick. If you won't, I understand...”

The unicorn looked around at them before glancing back to the mayor and other earth ponies. He let out a sigh before nodding. “I... I will. After all the supplies I stole, it's the least I can do. What do you need?”

Twilight smiled as she nodded. “Good. Okay, we're going to give them something to really be afraid of. Here's the plan...”

An icy blue coated unicorn dressed in armor nudged another stick into the fire as she glanced to her comrades. Most of them had already fallen asleep, though she saw a few still struggling. She glanced to the nearby woods and let out a sigh. Occasionally she thought she saw something move, but she tried her hardest to ignore it. A nudge to her side made her shriek as she turned around to see another unicorn, with a red coat.

“Don't do that!” she growled.

“Sorry,” the other mare chuckled as she laid by the fire. “What has you so jumpy?”

“I don't know... it's too quiet. We usually hear the wolf howls, but tonight there isn't anything. What if something is going on in there?” the blue-coated mare mumbled as she looked out towards the forest, she swore she saw a light for a second.

“Nah, you worry too much. Those stories of spirits are just meant to freak ponies out. If they had anything like that in those woods, the suicide squad would have been completely crushed,” the other mare said with a chuckle.

“Maybe. But if they don't, why doesn't the captain have us atta... did you see that?” the blue mare got to her hooves and took a step towards the forest.

“See what?”

“There was a flash, just for a moment. Something is out there.”

“Relax. There's nothing out there except for bugs and squirrels. You're letting your... letting your...” the red-coated mare trailed off as she looked to the treeline. A thick fog began to slowly inch its way out from the forest, heading towards them.

“J-just normal mist, right?” the blue-coated mare said as she got to her hooves and her horn began to glow. She squeaked and took a step back. “I-I can't stop it! I can't bend it!” she squealed as she took a few more steps back. The mist hit the edge of their camp right as a tremendously powerful wind shot from the woods. Their campfires were instantly snuffed out, plunging the camp in darkness. A number of tents were even pulled from the ground, awakening their sleepers. Cries of alarm spread through the camp as everypony awoke. Then the mist enveloped them.

A loud howl came from the woods. A moment later they could hear screams and the sounds of falling trees. “Everypony gather up! Prepare for an attack!”

“You shall never escape,” an angry, rough voice boomed. It sent a chill down the mare's spine.

“Don't listen to it!” a voice called from the mist, the frightened mare recognized it as their commander. “It's just an earth pony trick!”

Loud screams tore through the camp as she heard more ponies yelling. “It's a demon! Run! The spirits are angry!”

She heard a growl from the mist and turned to face it. Shadows slowly began to come into focus as a small pack of creature's appeared. Three of them, giant dogs bigger than a pony. Their bodies were black, but flames coursed around their claws and head. The one in the center opened its mouth before sending a burst of fire past her head, barely missing as she backed away. The flames stayed, burning through their equipment as the pack advanced.

“Kill them!” the blue-coated water bender yelled and charged forward. Water flowed around her horn before turning to ice and shooting forward. It skewered the nearest member of the pack. The creature didn't seem to notice as it moved through it, unphased by the attack. Another one sent another burst of flame at them, scorching their hooves as they turned to run.

“They're spirits! They're real spirits! Run! RUN!” she yelled as she galloped through the fog and out of the camp. She didn't look back, though she swore she could feel the beast's hot breath on her back and powerful teeth nipping at her hooves.

The camp lay in ruins, most of the Water Nation's supplies destroyed and forgotten. The only creatures that remained were the pack of fire breathing dogs and a group of giant bats. As the mist disappeared the animals disappeared as well, revealing Twilight and Rainbow.

“Oh yeah, did you see them running? Hah!” the pegasus said as she landed with a pose. “I was awesome!”

“You truly were,” Velveteye said as he trotted forward. “With their camp destroyed and forces scattered, I doubt they'll return. You've put the fear of the forest in their hearts.”

“They still might,” Twilight mumbled as she looked towards the forestline. “Where's Shadowhoof?”

“Probably ran off to hide,” the stallion said with a hmph. A quick glare from the alicorn made him gaze down. “Sorry, avatar. I meant no disrespect.”

“We should go get him and bring him back!” Pinkie said as she hopped about. We can throw a beat the Water Nation again party!”

“Pfft, why?” Rainbow said with a roll of her eyes. “He's Water Nation. Not to mention a thief.”

“He also helped us here,” Twilight said with a sigh. “Also, Vinyl was a member of the Water Nation as well. They aren't all cold blooded killers. I'm going to go find him and bring him back.”

“Avatar, wait,” the mayor said as he shook his head. “I'll admit he did help us here, but bringing him back to the village could be dangerous. He has terrorized and tormented us for the past month. Stolen from us.”

“His help has also saved your village,” the alicorn said with a shake of her head. “Warned us of the force here and helped us deal with it. Do you really feel that nopony will forgive him for what he did?”

The stallion sighed and shook his head. “No, I imagine they will...”

“Good. Besides, you may need his help if they come back. I'll be right back,” she said as she trotted off into the woods. It only took her a few moments to find the stallion, hiding behind a tree and clutching his horn. He was rocking back and forth with his eyes closed. “Are you okay?”

“F-fine,” Shadowhoof whimpered. “Just... that was a l-lot of magic. The fog, the illusions on you and your friends. M-maintaining it kind of... burnt through my reserves. Is my horn bleeding?”

“Uhhh... no. Should it be?”

“No, but it feels like it was twisted around in my skull... ugh...” the unicorn groaned as he leaned back and rubbed his horn against the tree with a pained moan.

“I'm sorry, I didn't mean to cause you pain,” Twilight said as she patted his withers. “I needed to ask you something. Do you... actually, would you like to come back to the village with us?”

“W-what?” he stopped scratching his horn on the tree and turned to her. “They'll kill me! I'm a member of the Water Nation!”

“I know, but trust me. I'll protect you if they try anything, but I think you could help them out. Your illusions could be very useful if the Water Nation attacks again. So please, give it a chance?”

“I... o-okay. You promise? You won't let them... hang me or anything? Because I heard the two earth benders talking and they seem quite keen on the idea.”

“I give you my solemn oath. Come on,” she said as she turned around and motioned him forward. “I have something I'd like to ask you as well. Do you know anything about something called the Alicorn Amulet?”

“Littlewing!” Rarity yelled as she finally caught sight of the little pegasus. He was standing on top of a big metal pipe and had a bowl in front of him which he was grinding plants in.

“You're alive? A shame. STOP!” he yelled as he held up a hoof. “Do you know what this is?” he asked as he motioned towards the metal pipe.

“No. Something to make your poisons with, I'd imagine? A bit big, isn't it?”

“This, is the access to the water filtration system. How did you think I'd been weakening and making everypony here so sick?” he asked with a smile as he pushed a hatch open. “If you come any closer, I'll toss the entire concoction in.”

The unicorn gulped as she watched him. “H-hey. There's no need for that. Just calm down and lets talk, okay?”

“Talk? What about?” the pegasus asked as he kept grinding his herbs.

“Gemcoat, why did you kill her? She took care of you, tried to protect you. How could you do that to her of all ponies?” Rarity stepped a few steps closer while he was distracted.

“Stop. Don't think I won't toss this in,” he warned as the mare halted. “Even with your water bending, if this goes in you'll never be able to stop it from filtering through the system. Just back up, to the door,” he ordered as she solemnly obeyed. “She was an enemy and I didn't need her any more. Tomorrow they'll find her dead. I'll be gone and, if you're smart, you will be too. They'll never believe you didn't kill her and me, after all.”

She growled and looked to the pipe. “Please, you don't need to do this. Nopony else has to die. You're just a colt, there is no reason for you to live with this on your conscience.”

“So naive. I'm over thirty years old! Do you really think me just a child?”

“But... you sound so... you look so... what?” she squeaked as she cocked her head to the side.

“It's a disease, nevermind. They have to die. When the Water Nation comes here they'll find an entire town already conquered for them. I'll be hailed as a hero!” he said with a chuckle. “Conquered everypony here. You could, if you wanted, help me. You can be a part of this. With your bending it would make this task far easier.”

“... Maybe you're right. You've won... I could help,” Rarity mumbled as she moved closer. “Do you believe it will bring back my honor? Help me return home?”

“Of course. Besides, you're right. Gemcoat was the only one capable of getting more water, and she's dead. I wasn't slipping her the antidote for that poison,” he said with a snicker.

Rarity kept stepping closer. “You're right. There's nothing I can do. How can I help?”

“All I need you to do is come here and swirl the water when I add the poison,” he mumbled as he motioned towards the pipe with his head. He adjusted his horseshoe as the needle slowly extended. “It'll make it spread faster so I don't have to adjust it throughout the night.”

She nodded as she moved closer, around the pipe. “Of course. So, how?” she mumbled as she charged forward. As she came closer she saw him thrust his hoof forward, the deadly needle catching the glint of the light. Rarity shrieked as she raised her hoof and the water from the pipe struck out. The mare barely managed to tumble to the left, around his hoof and face planted into the ground before rolling over backwards. The unicorn flailed her hooves wildly as she tried to get back up, finally regaining herself after a few terrifying seconds. She turned to face her adversary and froze.

Littlewing was standing completely still, his hoof still held out to where she had been charging. The only reason he was still standing was because the shards of ice impaled through out his body, including his head. Rarity stared as her mouth fell open, trembling. “O-oh gods... I didn't... L-Littlewing? A-are you okay?” she asked. She reached out and nudged him gently. “Littlewing? I didn't... I never meant to. I just... I...” Her body began to tremble as her knees gave out. She collapsed to the floor and just stared. “You were trying to... kill me and I just... I reacted. I p-panicked. I just wanted t-to freeze you. Not... oh gods. Oh gods...”

She stared at the dead pony, unable to even respond when her aunt eventually found the two. Celestia took one look at the poisons and water before lifting a hoof over the liquid. Eventually satisfied she closed the opening and put a hoof over her niece's withers. “Come along, Rarity... we must leave here...” she whispered as she slowly guided the mare away.

Twilight gulped nervously as she stared at the ruins before her. While the castle she had seen before had been covered in moss and ivy, these new ruins were completely bare of any plant life. They were comprised of only three buildings, two tall towers besides a staircase that went underground. She turned back to look at her comrades, though the two other earth ponies had left, Velveteye still remained. “So, you're sure it's here?”

“I don't know, maybe?” Shadowhoof mumbled as he motioned towards the stairs. “I've been through almost everywhere in this forest and this is the only place I could imagine it being. I've never been inside before, it gives me the creeps.”

“Heh, wuss,” Rainbow said as she took a step towards it. Surrounding the ruins was nothing but dirt, not even the grass grew past the circle of trees that lined up around them. The moment the pegasus stepped onto the dirt her mane stood on end and she took a step back with a yelp. “W-what was that?!”

“The reason I never went in there,” Shadowhoof muttered. “This place is terrifying. You can almost feel the... unnaturalness.”

Twilight frowned as she stepped forward. The moment she crossed the threshold her eyes went wide as... something washed over her. It flowed through her body, in through her hooves, wings and horn. “It feels so... so... calming. Power. It feels... wow...” she whispered in awe as she held her hoof up. “This feels amazing. You should all feel this.”

“Feels creepy to me,” Rainbow grumbled as she stepped forward and shivered. “Like something is nipping at my wings.”

“I don't feel anything!” Pinkie said as she hopped about. “Does it tickle any?”

“Brrrrr...” Fluttershy mumbled as she looked around and shivered. “I-it's kind of scary... y-you don't think it's bad for us, do you?”

Spike shrugged. “I'm with Pinkie. I don't feel anything, I think it's just your imaginations.”

“I'll uhhh, wait here for your return, Avatar,” Shadowhoof squeaked as he watched them, unwilling to cross towards the ruins himself.

“No need, it'll be fine,” Twilight said with a shake of her head. “We can find our way back, so you and Velveteye can return to the village. We'll come straight back once we finish. I'm sure he'll keep you safe.”

“G-go to the village? Without you?” he asked and quickly shook his head. “I-I'd rather not...”

The mayor reached out and placed a hoof on the unicorn's withers. “Shush. Don't worry. I've already sent the other two ahead of us, so they'll know to expect you. They'll also know you're a... friend of the avatar. No harm will come to you, I swear.”

“Really?” the unicorn asked with another nervous glance towards the alicorn and her friends.

“Really. Now come along, let us leave the avatar and her friends to their duty. It would be best that we don't get in their way. I vow that nothing will happen until she returns.”

“O-okay,” he mumbled as the two turned and left.

Twilight took a deep breath as she stood at the top of the stairs. A small flame formed at the tip of her horn as she slowly started walking forward.

Flames warmed Celestia and Rarity as the two laid before a campfire, just off to the side of the road. The elder unicorn held her niece close as she slowly stroked a hoof through her mane as the younger sobbed into her aunt's withers.

“There there, Rarity, let it all out,” she said gently.

“I-I never wanted t-to kill him!” the fallen princess sobbed. “I-I was just... I reacted! I panicked, I never meant to... I never wanted to...”

“I know, I know,” Celestia whispered as she gently patted her niece's eyes with a hoofkerchief. “It was an accident. I know it. This pain will pass, with time.”

“I just... I never thought I'd...” Rarity looked up. “It... it was so easy. I barely had to even try. W-what if I do it again? I-I could kill dozens like that!”

The elder unicorn pulled the young mare into a tight hug. “No, you couldn't. You are a kind, sweet young mare. You do not have it in you to be a cold-hearted killer.” Her legs tightened around the mare. “But... I'm afraid you may have to one day kill again. This world is not perfect, nor is it safe. Sometimes, taking a life is necessary. But, hold onto the way you feel now. Always remember it. As long as you can feel such pain over this death, know that you are still you. Taking a life, no matter how cold or evil the life, is never something that should be enjoyed.”

Rarity trembled as she slowly looked up. “W-we need t-to go back. I-I need to warn them. H-he might have p-put something in the water. If... if any of them d-die then it was a-all for n-nothing.”

“Worry not, little niece,” Celestia mumbled as she continued to stroke the mare's mane. “I checked before I took you. The water was pure. But, I'm afraid we cannot return. The evidence is... stacked unfavorably against us. Even if we could prove that he was trying to kill them, we would still be outed as water benders. For now, our best course of action is to lay low and move on.”

“H-how can we just... how can I just...” the young princess broke down into another sobbing fit as she buried her head in her aunt's withers.

“Let it all out,” Celestia said as she moved her head down to nuzzle the grief stricken mare.

Rosebush sighed as she slowly trotted away from her home, a cart filled with materials to trade pulled behind her. She knew she should have stayed, but right now she just wanted to be alone. Selling their goods was the best way to achieve that goal. She was so distracted she didn't notice the thing pulling towards her until it let out a loud, shrill whistle. Her head whipped up as her eyes went wide.

“What... the buck?” she asked as she... stared at it. Whatever IT was. It was a massive wheeled device, made of metal. It was at least five ponies tall and twice as wide as her cart. It had half a dozen large steel wheels on either side. Large spikes pointed out the front. A thin mist billowed out from a large pipe near the back. She'd heard of such things used by her kingdom, called tanks, but she'd never actually seen one. Slowly a hatch on top opened up as a small, white unicorn popped out.

“Ah, hello miss. Could you be so kind as to direct me to the avatar?” Sweetie asked with a confident smile.

“The avatar? She was headed...” Rosebush froze as she turned back to look at the metal behemoth. “Wait, that's... not an...” her eyes narrowed as she grit her teeth. “Let me guess, you're from the Water Nation? You can go back and tell Flim and Flam that we're not falling for your dirty little tricks any more.” She spit on the ground before glaring up at her.

“Oh? You're aware of us? I'm afraid that means I won't be able to let you go then. Please, don't run. That'll just make things... messy.”

“Pfft. What? Are you going to stop me? Let me guess, with your little 'water bending'?”

“... Indeed,” The unicorn's horn glowed as a metal flap in the front of the vehicle opened. Water shot out, encasing the mare in thick ice. Sweetie grinned as she climbed out of the tank and jumped down from the side of the vehicle. She slowly trotted forward and reached up to stroke the frightened mare's cheek. “Now. You mentioned the avatar was heading somewhere?”

“I... I-I'll never t-tell you...” Rosebush squeaked as she tried to look away, but a firm grip on her face stopped it.

“Oh, you will,” the princess said as her eyes glowed purple. “You'll tell me anything I want to know...”

Chapter 7: Mournful Nights

Twilight gingerly climbed down the steps, deep under ground. Despite the great age of the ruins, they were still in amazing shape. Aside from a few puddles of water, some dust and a hoofful of cracks, there was nothing to tell them the place had been abandoned for at least a century. Occasionally as they descended they'd pass a torch, which she'd quickly light.

The stonework on the walls was magnificent. Completely smooth, even when she rubbed her hoof along it they didn't catch. The stairway was rough underhoof, granting them perfect traction as they trotted. Finally, they came to a pair of large sliding doors, the one on the right slid halfway into the wall.

“That's weird,” Pinkie mumbled as the walked through the opening.

“Why?” Spike asked as he walked besides Twilight.

“It should have been closed, since... nothing,” Pinkie shook her head as the others made their way into the new hall. “Nevermind.”

“Wow, look at this!” Twilight said as she held her horn besides the walls. They were no longer smooth, but displayed images of ponies. “I think these are supposed to be the four nations, look!” As they traveled down the hall the walls revealed images of different ponies displaying different types of bending.

Water unicorns who parted the sea, earth ponies who lifted mountains, fire unicorns who created pillars of flame that touched the clouds and air pegasi who created massive tornados. Twilight froze as she walked past the last of the pictured pegasi and stared at the new sight. A large chunk of the wall had been destroyed, torn from it and the resulting empty space sanded down. She frowned as she kept walking passed the damaged section as her mouth fell open.

The painted ponies were there again, except now they were at war. Mountains tore through the sky, destroying cloud cities as massive tornados turned great palaces into flatland. The seas boiled as fire and ice battled for dominance, the sun and moon competing for space in the sky.

“Kinda reminds you of the way it is now, huh?” Rainbow grumbled.

“This is... horrible,” Twilight whispered as she reached out a hoof to stroke the drawing of one of the fire unicorns. “I remember hearing about wars like this when I was a foal, but none had occurred like this for a milennia. Not once the... once the... oh...”

“Once the avatar came?” Spike offered.

“Yes,” Twilight mumbled as she kept walking. “Part of this story is missing though. I think whatever caused this has been erased.” The next part of the wall showed six ponies, of varying descent. They stood together, Their backs to the raging war. She was so absorbed in the images that she failed to see ahead as her hoof hit a small rock. She let out a shriek as she crashed to the ground, before letting out a gasp.

The ground ahead was covered in stone fragments. The walls had been cut to pieces, the largest barely the size of her hoof, and the chunks littered the floor. She quickly got to her hooves and galloped forward, but all she could find was broken wall. “How... who could do this?! This is history! These told about the previous... why would some pony do this?” she asked as she finally came to the end of the hall. A massive stone slab blocked the way.

She frowned as she nudged it with her hoof. It didn't move.

“Twilight, what's going on?” Rainbow called up the hall. A moment later she let out a shriek of pain. “Dang it! You have the only light, do you mind shedding some?!”

“Sorry!” the avatar yelled as she trotted back, the glow of her horn lighting the way. Soon they all stood before the large slab. There were a few cuts in it, but it was in far greater repair than the rest of the stone.

“So, what is it?” Rainbow asked as she nudged the stone as well.

“The last door, I think,” Twilight mumbled as she lightly tapped it across the surface. After a few taps she heard a light clang. “Metal,” she whispered with a smile. “That's why it's still here. The gate had to be opened, it couldn't be torn down. Earth bending wasn't enough.”

“So someone came down here, got locked out and just tore the place apart?” Spike asked as he kicked a small stone.

“It seems so... I'm not sure how to open it though,” the alicorn mumbled as she closed her eyes.

“Try burning it,” Rainbow suggested.

“How in... no,” she grumbled as put a hoof to it. “Only the avatar is supposed to be able to come here. Maybe if I try reaching out to the spirits,” the alicorn whispered as she tried focusing and her horn glowed with purple magic.

After a few seconds, light spread through the stone. It slowly began to roll to the side, rumbling loudly as it went.

“Huh,” Rainbow mumbled as she watched it go. “That's... well, that was easy. Real easy. Things are usually a lot harder for us.”

Inside the room was a single pillar with a large purple jewelry box sitting on top. Twilight let out a giggle of glee as she charged into the room. “You worry too-Ahhh!” Her hooves were suddenly pulled from under her as she tripped over something. A moment later a loud boom echoed throughout the chamber, followed by the rumble of falling rocks. “Go back!” she screamed as she got to her hooves and made a beeline towards the hall, her friends quickly backing into it as well. As she came closer the door of rock slammed shut in front of her, trapping her in the room as stones began to fall from above.

“Now, we're going to try this again,” Sweetie Belle said as she paced back and forth through an empty field. The plants and food in the field had been flattened and every pony of the small village gathered before the princess. “Where is the avatar?” Scootaloo and Flowerbloom stood with the rest of the soldiers, watching with wide, fearful eyes.

Rosebush laid on her side, struggling for air as a thick purple liquid oozed from a wound in her side. “W-we... we a-already t-told you... w-we don't know...” she groaned as she struggled to hold up a hoof. “P-please...”

“I already told you, you will tell me,” the unicorn mumbled as her horn glowed and a small ball of water flew up over her horn. After a moment the liquid turned a dark purple color before being splattered across the wounded unicorn's side.

The red-coated mare let out a loud scream as the mixture bubbled a little. After a few seconds a number of the Water Nation's unicorns came galloping back from the town. “We've searched it, your highness. There's no pony else there. If the avatar was here, she isn't now.”

“Of course she isn't,” Sweetie mumbled before moving to the unicorn and raising a hoof to stroke Rosebush's cheek. “Very well. I understand. You wish to protect her, she's important to you, correct? Don't think I don't understand,” she said with a gentle coo. “You see, I'm trying to protect some pony too. She needs my protection, but she just doesn't realize it. Unfortunately, finding the avatar is the best way to protect her. So, if you won't tell me... I'll move onto the next. But first,” she leaned down and whispered into the mare's ear. “Which one of these ponies are your parents?”

“W-what? W-why?” Rosebush asked as her body trembled with pain. The poison burned through her veins like fire, making every movement hurt.

“I'm not a killer,” the princess mumbled as she continued to gently stroke her mane. “It's such a waste. Once a pony dies there's nothing more I can do to them.” Her eyes, completely purple, stared into the wounded ponies eyes. “But, it seems you're pushing me too hard. I'll have to...” a grin formed across her lips, “dispose of you. Ah hah hah hah hah, ah hah hah hah hah hah!” She threw her head back and laughed as she lifted her hoof over the other mare's neck, a shard of ice materializing on the tip.

“STOP!” Flowerbloom yelled as she galloped up to the two. “Sweetie, s-stop!”

“We can find the avatar another way!” Scootaloo yelled as she joined her friend.

Sweetie turned to the two interrupting her as her eyes glowed. “YOU DARE TO INTERRUPT ME?!” she yelled. Her horn glimmered with magic as the water turned to spikes over her head and her friends stopped short. A moment later the unicorn's grin disappeared as the ice turned to water. “W-what? I mean... I...” The purple leaked from her eyes, replaced by a gentle green. She chewed on her lip as she gazed down at the sobbing mare at her hooves. “I... I was just... it was a bluff, okay?” she grumbled as she pulled away. “Just... guards! Gather every one of them and keep them under watch. Clean the mare's wounds as well. The poison isn't fatal, it'll fade soon after the wound is cleaned. Just... do it.” The princess turned and trotted away. Her two friends quickly looked to each other before trotting after her.

“Sweetie Belle,” Scootaloo mumbled as soon as they were out of hearing range of the others. “What was that all about?”

“I just... I... I want the avatar so bad!” the unicorn snapped as she stomped her hooves. “Once I have her, Rarity will come back to me and she'll be my BSBFF!” she growled as she kicked a clump of dirt. “But they're making it all so hard and keeping us apart! I just... I just want to kill them all!” she growled as her eyes flashed purple again for a second.

“Sweetie,” Flowerbloom mumbled as she gave the princess a hug. “Yah don't have tah... kill any pony. They're jus' scared an' tryin' tah protect what gives them hope. They aren't trying tah keep yah apart from Rarity, honest.”

“... Really?” the princess mumbled as she poked the ground. “Then why won't they just tell me? Don't they know I could kill them with a wave of my hoof if I really wanted? They can't really be dumb enough to think they have any chance at all of being able to oppose me.”

“Well... probably not,” Scootaloo mumbled. “But they could be afraid that you might... errrr... anyway. Just leave it to me and Flowerbloom, okay? We'll find out where the avatar went.”

“Y-you will?” Sweetie asked with a soft gulp. “Even though I yelled... at you?”

“Of course!” Flowerbloom said as the two ponies bumped cutie marks with the unicorn's. “We're best friends, right? That means we're here for yah. You'll never have tah do any of this alone.”

The unicorn smiled as she nuzzled her two friends. “Thank you,” she whispered. “It has been so long since I've had some pony to help me. I'd almost forgotten what it was like...”

Twilight groaned as she slowly got to her hooves. Rocks and dust covered her but, fortunately, none of them were too big to shake off. She was surrounded on all sides by rocks as her horn slowly came to life to light the room in her flame. “Guys?” she yelled out. “Fluttershy? Pinkie? Rainbow? Spike? Any pony?” she yelled, but received no response. “Are you okay?” She took a step before letting out a shriek of pain. Her front right hoof was bent slightly wrong and, whenever she touched it, pain shot through. “Agh...” she groaned.

She looked to the left and saw the small purple box, still on the pedestal. With an annoyed sigh she gripped it in her magic. “You better be worth it,” she grumbled. She popped the box open and stared.

It was empty. Completely and utterly empty. “WHAT?!” she screamed as she tipped it upside down and shook. “No. No no no. NO!” she yelled again before slamming it on the pillar and snapping it in half. There was nothing. “GAHHHHH! How could you be empty?! I just, it just... I... AGHHHH!” she screamed again as she looked around the room. Rocks surrounded her on all sides and the roof above was solid stone.

Finally she turned around towards where she thought the tunnel she came from was. “Fine. Twilight, you can do this. You are the avatar. You are not going to let one little rock slide stop you.” She limped over and started moving some of the rocks aside as she attempted to make her way out. Within a few moments more stones slid down from above, peppering and cutting her with their sharp edges as she was forced to retreat from the much smaller rock slide.

She coughed and sputtered as she watched the rocks settle a second time. She sighed as she moved towards it again, wobbling slightly from the hurt hoof and the number of cuts across her backside, and tried digging. Dust and sweat coated her body as she slowly made her way through the rocks, this time more carefully. She let out a startled cry as her other hoof was suddenly burned. She pulled away and stared at the small black stone, smoking hot and coated in powder. She gulped as she leaned in close and her mouth fell open. “Buck boom powder? Why would somepony... is this what caused the avalanche? But who would put such a thing here?” She frowned as she shoved it away, using another, much cooler rock. It didn't take long before she came to a large rock blocking her way. No matter how she kicked, bucked or shoved, it refused to move. Even when she used her hurt hoof she could not exert enough force, and the efforts made her almost throw up from the pain.

With a defeated scream she finally dropped down. “Stupid amulet... ugh. If I could just earth bend I could get out of here, easy! Or if I had the stupid amulet. GAHHH!” she kicked a nearby stone. It bounced off another before conking her in the head. She let out a pained cry before finally letting the flame in her horn give out. “Stupid... amulet. Stupid rocks.”

She gulped as she looked around the darkness, before lowering her head into her hooves. “W-what if I can't get out?” she whispered to herself. “No! Bad Twilight. Your friends are out there. They're probably working to get you out right now. They're... o-oh no. W-what if they're buried? What if... no! NO!” she shrieked as she shook her head. “I don't... I'm not going to... huh?” a small glimmer caught her eye. Across the room a small gleam of orange and white light peered through some rocks. She quickly got to her hooves as her horn came alive with flame. The glow disappeared, but her eyes were trained on where it had been. A large pile of rocks, up against the wall.

The alicorn limped over and tugged on the rocks with her magic. “There must be light coming in from the other side. I just need to dig my way out,” she mumbled as she started digging, yet again. The room was getting hotter and stuffier as she worked, so she slowly turned the light to a dim ember, just enough to see.

After a few minutes of digging she broke through, revealing a staircase that went further underground. “What?” she mumbled softly as she looked down. “But I saw a light. I... I thought I did... What was... huh?”

Farther down the stairs she heard a giggle and caught sight of an orange pony. The pony seemed to glow as she turned back to smile at the avatar, a moment before galloping off down the stairs. “Wait! Come back!” Twilight yelled as she galloped after the pony. The quick movement made her scream as pain shot through her hoof and she teetered forward, rolling down the stairs. It took a few steps and many bruises, before she caught herself and slowly got up. She gulped and slowly limped down the stairway again, her hurt hoof held to her side. After a few moments the orange pony was joined by a glowing white pony, and the two continued trotting down the stairs.

Flowerbloom slowly trotted past the Water Nation guards and towards a number of makeshift wooden cages. The prisoners were all trapped, a max of three per cage. She moved to the one holding Rosebush. The young unicorn was laying limp on her side, barely breathing as two other unicorns, a mare and a stallion, did their best to help her. They slowly gave her water from a small cup.

The earth pony lightly tapped on the bars and smiled to them. “Hello again. Ah think we need tah talk.”

“Go away!” the stallion snapped as he glared at her. “Haven't you monsters done enough?! We don't know where the avatar is, and we'd never tell you even if we did!”

“Oh, don't give me that,” the earth pony said as she sat down. “We all know yah had the avatar here. We questioned a numbah of yah prisoners and they were more than happy tah spill everythang. Unfortunately, they didn't know where the lil alicorn gone ran off to. That's why we have ta ask yah. Yah all are gonna tell us.”

“We won't tell y-”

“That's your daughter, ain't she?” Flowerbloom asked as she pointed towards the hurt unicorn. “Mah friend was bein' nice. Didn't wanna kill her. But... if yah don't tell us, she'll just bring her back for more, again and again. How many different poisons yah think she can handle? Do yah really wanna watch your daughter die cause yah were too stubborn?”

“I... I'm not... my daughter is brave. She told us not to... she's...” the stallion struggled as tears formed in his eyes. “W-we'll... we'll never break. We'll never tell you or your queen anything!”

Flowerbloom sighed as she moved towards the pony. She looked left and right, once she was sure no pony could hear she spoke up. “Listen... ah know you're all scared. But Sweetie doesn't want yah. None of yah are benders. At worst, she'll just imprison yah. She won't kill any of yah unless yah make her... please don't.”

“W-what do you care? She's a monster! A demon!”

“She just wants tah be with her sister,” the earth pony said with a shake of her head. “All yah need tah do is tell her where the avatar went off to. Is it really worth watchin' your family be tortured and die? Can yah really live with that on your conscience?”

The stallion gulped before looking down to his daughter. He let out a sigh and shook his head. “I... I give up.”

“N-no...” Rosebush said weakly as she struggled to get up. “D-don't tell them... the... the avatar... she... she gave us... she... she helped us.”

“I just...” the stallion sighed before shaking his head. He fell to his knees and stroked his daughter's mane as tears went down his face. “I just... I can't watch you endure that again. I'll... I'll tell her at... at sunset.”

Flowerbloom rolled her eyes. “Ah give yah credit for bein' so brave. Tryin' tah stall us so maybeh the avatar can get ahead.” The pony glanced down at the wounded unicorn and let out a sigh. “Fine. Ah'll be back at sunset. If yah don't tell meh, we'll have to resort to other measures. Ah'm sorry,” she grumbled as she turned and walked away from the cage.

“How'd it go?” Scootaloo asked as she trotted over. “Get them to tell you?”

“Soon,” she mumbled as she looked back to the cage. “We should know bah sunset. Ah hope they spill though. Ah dun ever wanna see Sweetie like that again.”

“Yeah,” the pegasus mumbled. “She is a bit... scary. But hey! We're all together now. I'm sure if anypony can help her with this stuff, we can.” She held out her hoof for a hoofbump.

The earth pony snickered and lifted her own hoof to connect. “Ah bet we can distract her if we have her sing. Maybe ninety-nine buckets of oats on the wall?”

Scootaloo cringed. “Oy. Haven't these ponies suffered enough?”

“She isn't THAT bad when she doesn't try to deafen yah,” Flowerbloom said with a snicker. “She used tah have a mighty fine singing voice back when she was in the choir.”

The pegasus burst into laughter. “Ohhhh yeah. Remember when she sang and danced over Mr. Trumpey? I thought she was going to cry when he told her she was only allowed to march in place.”

“Remember the prank we pulled after?” Flowerbloom snickered. “I still don't think he has any idea how those chickens got all the way up there.”

“Hee hee," Scootaloo chuckled, "I remember him struggling to get up the ladder as they kept crowing. I bet those birds were just as tired of him as we were.”

“Ha ha, remember when the ladder fell over and he flew out the window into the water tubs outside?” the earth pony said with happy giggles as her entire body shook with laughter. “Ah don't think ah ever saw Sweetie freeze so much water so fast. We got in sooooo much trouble for that one.”

“Totally worth it,” the pegasus said with a snicker. “I still remember him trying to climb out from the water, his entire lower half stuck.”

“I was grounded for a month,” a voice said from behind them. The two ponies jumped as they whipped around, seeing Sweetie standing there. “Are you two okay?”

“What? Oh! No! We're fine, you just, s-startled us,” Scootaloo said quickly as she looked off to the side. “Eh, heh heh heh.”

The unicorn frowned as she moved closer towards them. “Is this about earlier? I-I'm really sorry I got so mad back there. I didn't mean to snap at you two. You're my friends. I'd never do anything to hurt you two,” she mumbled as she moved closer and looked up at them with wide eyes. “Please forgive me?”

“Ah course we do, Sweetie,” Flowerbloom said with a smile. “We know yah just stressed and wanna find the avatar so yah can find yah sister. Jus' leave it tah us. We'll find out where dah avatar ran off tah. Jus' go an' get some rest.”

“Okay,” the princess mumbled as she trotted off. She stopped for a moment and gave the two another glance, before shaking her head and leaving them.

“You don't think she would have actually impaled us, do you?” Scootaloo asked nervously.

“Ah... ah certainly hope not,” Flowerbloom mumbled. “Ah'm sure she's just under a lotta stress. She's been the princess for a long time now, who knows what things she's been stuck doin' all this time? Sides, if I had a sister I'm sure I'd be jus' as keen tah find her as Sweetie.”

“Well, who knows?” Scootaloo said with a shrug. “Maybe one day your parents will have another little girl and you can have a sister. Or maybe even a brother.”

Flowerbloom rolled her eyes, “Now why would ah want a brother? Probably end up bein' some loud mouthed little brat that neva shuts up,” the earth pony said with a snicker.

Scootaloo snickered as she trotted back towards the camp. “I'm gonna go get something to eat. After that we can go question them some more, or at least stall until night comes.”

Twilight kept limping, deeper into the earth. The two ponies always kept ahead, just barely within view as she struggled to keep up. “Slow down!” she yelled. “Please, I just want to talk! Who are you?” The air was thin and musty, making it difficult to move as she struggled for air.

The two ponies just kept trotting off before finally disappearing completely. The avatar soon caught up to where they disappeared, a small landing that entered a large circular room. She gulped and slowly walked inside.

An image of the sun took up the majority of the floor, though the crescent moon and a cloud were overlapping it. There were no other exits in the room, aside from the way she'd come in. “Hello? Is anypony here?” she asked as she tried catching her breath.

No response came. She began to slowly trot around the room and looked at the walls. Images of unicorns, pegasi and earth ponies were carved into the wall. Almost the entire wall was covered in them, hundreds. She circled the room, but couldn't recognize any of them. That is, until she came near the end and froze.

“Starswirl?” she whispered as she stared at his face, carved into the stone. He was a unicorn in the image, lacking his wings. She slowly reached out and placed her hoof on his face.

“AVATAR!” his voice suddenly tore through her mind. She quickly stepped back as her eyes went wide.

“S-starswirl? Is that you? Can you hear me?” she asked. She looked around, but she saw and heard nothing. She then glanced back towards the image in the center of the room. With slight reluctance she slowly trotted into the middle of the room and sat down. Her eyes closed as she once again reached out, attempting to feel the spirit world around her.

She felt hooves on her back as she was pulled up. As she opened her eyes, the world was gone. Or rather, far below her as she flew high in the sky. She turned around and saw him.

He was a large stallion, with a dark gray coat and a gray beard and mane that were so long they nearly touched the ground. He wore a blue cloak and hat, each etched with the stars and moon. Bells were sewn around the hems, making each movement of his jingle. Despite his age the stallion stood strong, his legs refusing to bend and his gaze fierce as he stared at her. “Twilight Sparkle, I see you've returned.”

“Starswirl! I could feel you, but I didn't know if... what's happening?” she asked as she looked around. “I tried to find the alicorn amulet, but it's gone. Did you take it and not return it?”

“No,” the stallion said firmly. “I did use it, but I returned it when I defeated Discord. Well, when I thought I... listen. I have little time and I must speak with you.” He reached out and put a hoof against her horn. “It is now time for me to teach you about the avatar state and the power it grants you, and of the Elements of Harmony.”

The sky turned a beautiful purple as the sun slowly began its descent across the sky. The three young mares of the Water Nation force laid in the grass as they stared at the beautiful display of coloration. “Can you believe the sky used to be like that every day?” Flowerbloom asked.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo mumbled. “It's hard to believe all these colors we can see now. Remember that rainbow the guards made earlier?”

Sweetie chuckled as she shook her head. “Yes, I won't deny it is beautiful. It'll almost be a shame when the sun is put down to rest for good. Who knows, though? Perhaps we will find new ways to harness it when night returns. For good.”

“Maybe,” Flowerbloom mumbled. “Ah should get back tah questionin' the prisoners. Yah two just relax,” she said as she rolled onto her hooves and trotted off. Before long she found herself back in front of the cage and smiled. “How yah all doin'?”

“Fine,” the stallion mumbled.

“Yah said yah had the information ah needed. Ah trust you're gonna keep your word?”

The stallion frowned as he looked down at his daughter, now asleep but still breathing raggedly. “Yes. But first, answer me this. Why did you give me this time? I mean... why... err...”

The earth pony looked around before smiling to the pony. “Ah see no reason tah hurt yah. If yah give us the information we need, we can go an' just leave yah alone. Ah'd be more than happy tah get Sweetie Belle back on the road and away from all this.”

The stallion nodded before looking down the road. “She headed along the north road. Her next stop would be at Drowsy Void. The road goes around the forest and right to it. Just follow where it is more traveled and ignore the splits, no pony has gone down those roads in a hundred years. I don't know where else she'd try going.”

“Thanks, that's all ah needed,” Flowerbloom said as she trotted off, back towards her friends. “Got it! The avatar is headed north tah a place called Drowsy Void. We just have to follow the road and, if we're fast, we'll maybe catch up tah her.”

“Perfect. We leave immediately,” Sweetie said as she waved a hoof towards one of the soldiers to come closer. “Prepare the soldiers to leave. Execute the prisoners and burn the village to the ground.”

“WHAT?!” Scootaloo yelled as she turned to the unicorn. “They are defenseless and innocent! We can't just execute them all!”

“Sweetie, please tell me yah don't mean that,” Flowerbloom asked as she moved a hoof up to her mouth, eyes wide with horror.

“N-no,” the unicorn said as she blinked a few times, her purple eyes turning green again. “J-just a joke. Hah hah. Leave them in the cages when we leave. They can break out eventually, by then it will be too long to stop us.” The soldier stood there and stared, confusion on his face. “I gave you your orders, move it!” she snapped.

“Yes ma'am!” the soldier said quickly as he galloped off.

Sweetie turned to her friends, who kept staring at her. “What?” she asked with a shake of her head. “I told you, it was a joke! I wasn't going to, I wouldn't have... I wouldn't have killed them. Honest. W-why would I do that?”

“I don't know,” Scootaloo mumbled. “You seemed awfully sure though.”

“You two know me. You know I'd never, ever do something like that. Don't you believe me?” she asked innocently.

“Princess Sweetie Belle!” a unicorn yelled as he galloped up. “We have a pony here who wishes to speak to you, he just arrived.”

“What? Why would I care about them? Just add the pony with the others. I'm busy with my friends.”

“Your highness,” the unicorn said as he lowered his head. “This pony isn't from the Earth Kingdom. He's a fire bender. He says his name is Prince Blueblood. He requested an audience with you.”

Chapter 8: Overwhelming Plans

Starswirl stared into Twilight's eyes as he spoke, his voice soft, yet so firm the mare couldn't help but hear each word. “The elements of harmony are what give us avatars our great power, and enable us to enter the avatar state. Without them, we would just be powerful benders, but nowhere near capable of battling the horrors that face our world. Horrors such as Discord.”

“What are these elements though?” the alicorn asked as she stared at the stallion. “I've never seen them and I've entered the avatar state plenty of times.”

“There are six in all. Kindness, loyalty, laughter, honesty and generosity are the five elements you must find in others. The avatar is the sixth, the magic that binds them together. When you enter the avatar state and call on the power of the five others, the elements can appear. Unfortunately, until you find all five the power is only a fraction of what it could be. Calling on it will also be far more difficult.”

Twilight let out a little squeak of delight as her hooves moved up to her face. “Ohmigosh! Are you going to tell me how to enter the avatar state? How? Howwww?”

The stallion sighed before smiling. “It can only be entered when those you care about are truly in danger. There have been times of great distress when an avatar has managed to tap into the power to save their lives, but it usually only for the protection of others.”

Twilight nodded before frowning. “Okay... so... how do I get these elements together? Who are they?”

“That changes from avatar to avatar,” he whispered as a little tear formed in his left eye. “I... it took me years to find the ones who... who were to be mine. When you manage to find them though... you'll know.” He placed a hoof over his heart. “You'll feel it through your core. The connections you'll eventually form with them will be like nothing you've ever felt before. The feeling if those connections are broken...” he choked as tears fell down his face. He quickly brought a hoof up to wipe them away.

“Like what happened between you and-”

“Y-yes,” he said softly. “She was the element of generosity. A wonderful ruler of her people... and that monster twisted her. Turned her into a greedy, selfish pony that hungered only for what others had. That's what he does to ponies. He twists their values around, subtly at first, until they eventually become something even their closest friends could never recognize.” Starswirl wiped another tear from his eye. “That is why the avatar is the only pony who can stand against him. Once you find those who can bear the other elements, no force of chaos will be able to oppose you.” He paused for a moment before shaking his head. “When the time comes, if you should ever face him... do not believe things are always as they appear. He is a monster of trickery and deceit. He will use anything at his disposal to defeat you. DO NOT ALLOW HIM TO!” the stallion yelled as his hooves quivered with rage. He quickly took a step back and sighed. “I... I am sorry. It is... hard to not get emotional after what that... that monster has done.”

Twilight nodded as she moved in to pat his back. She then sighed. “Actually though, I think I tapped into these elements once. I tried using them in the spirit realm, to defeat Trixie. Unfortunately it didn't... quite work as well as I hoped it would. It barely fazed her.”

Starswirl nodded. “Of course. Until you create those connections, the bonds are weak. With every element you discover, your power will grow. You may even know a number of them now.”

Twilight blinked as she thought for a moment. “I... I think you're right. I may know a few. Five of them to be exact.”

“Then you are well on your way. You must learn to manifest these elements and give them to those who are to wear them. It will be difficult and, before you grant one, you must be sure the pony you choose is correct. Giving an element to the wrong bearer can cause great damage.”

Twilight nodded with a smile. “Of course. Thank you,” she said as she looked up at the imposing pony. A grin formed on her lips as she leaned up and gave him a tight hug. “Thank you very much... I'm happy I'm not alone with this.”

“Avatar,” the stallion whispered. “So long as you have your friends, you will never truly be alone.”

Blueblood hmphed as he walked besides the large Water Nation tank. Water benders surrounded him on all sides, but he didn't care. He was certain if the need arose he could crush them in one hoof. The foals had kept him from their leader for a while now, insisting that he stand and wait while they gathered their supplies, and then having the audacity to make him march with them as they traveled, as if he was some common mule! The only thing that stopped him from turning and blasting the lot of them back to their country was the thought of vengeance.

A small white unicorn slowly made her way to him as the guards quickly moved aside. He glanced down at her with contempt. “Are you another one of their 'captains'?” he asked, his voice dripping with scorn. “Listen, child, I will speak with none, but your leader. I will not lower myself to speaking with some wet behind the ears soldier who thinks she can speak for her nation about things beyond her understanding.”

Sweetie merely chuckled as she held up a hoof. The entire herd stopped instantly, even the tank. “Indeed. Now, Prince Blueblood, allow me to introduce myself. Princess Sweetie Belle of the Water Nation, and the future Nightmare Moon.” She bowed her head politely.

Blueblood went slightly wide eyed, but slowly lowered his head to return the gesture. “Ah. My apologies. I hope you can understand why I am so... testy,” the stallion grumbled as he raised his head and looked around. “Having these useless soldiers surrounding me as if I am some sort of prisoner. If I wished to run, I would have never sought you out in the first place.”

“Of course, of course. I do apologize, but we cannot be too careful. Please join me in my vehicle.” She turned and trotted towards the tank as stairs popped out from the side. She quickly hopped inside. The guards around the prince quickly moved aside as he followed.

Soon he was inside the tank and it was once again moving. Inside was quite warm, with three clear containers filled with boiling water, being monitored by a single water bender. One wall was lined with soft, padded dark blue chairs. Sweetie and her two friends were sitting and waiting for him, as he was motioned to sit between her and Scootaloo. He quickly took a seat and hmphed. “An interesting vehicle. Now, onto business. I believe the two of us have a common enemy.” He glanced around, it was huge, able to hold all of the troops, though most were now outside on a forced march.

“Oh? Do we now?” Sweetie asked as her horn glowed. A small bowl of grapes hovered over as she popped one in her mouth. “Would you like one?”

“No!” he snapped as he glowered at her. “Please, remain serious. What I mean, is the avatar. A nasty, despicable mare. I know how you can lure her to you and remove her blight, once and for all.”

“Oh? How is that?” the unicorn asked with a smirk.

“Before that, my terms. I wish to join your nation, as ruler of the fire benders.”

“Ruler of the fire benders? But we have no such benders,” Sweetie said with the most innocent face, her eyes wide and confused.

“Oh, you will,” he snickered as he held up his hooves. “Those foals betrayed me, but I will have the last laugh. I want the lot of them captured and to be joined with your nation, with me at their head as your partner. I'm sure you can imagine just how unstoppable we would become. Our fire bending combined with your water bending. Both the moon and sun would be within our control.”

The unicorn let out a gasp. “But how? I mean, there aren't any more fire benders, aside maybe from you. The avatar was the one who raised the sun, wasn't she?”

Blueblood just laughed. “She was, the first time. But the raising and lowering it? That is all us. Or rather, that is the work of those traitors. Those foals.” He glanced to Sweetie and smiled. “Though, they are weak compared to me. I will have no trouble controlling them and bending them to following the Water Nation.”

The water bender smiled. “Wow... well... I guess if you're willing to help us so much, I see no reason why we can't come to an agreement.” A wicked grin formed on her face. “I can guarantee you a noble position among the elite of my nation. As well as make you the most powerful fire bender in our nation. Does that satisfy your desires?”

The stallion chuckled as he rubbed his hooves together. “Yes. I can get you to them, easily. It will be dangerous, however. There is a reason we've remained hidden for so long.”

“Of course,” Sweetie said with a nod. “You're really quite brave and wise to come to us. I will reward it accordingly. Do not worry, I am a pony of my word. We have business to attend to first, but once we arrive at this... sleepy empty, or whatever it was called, if the avatar is not there we will gather our forces and launch an assault on these ponies. I trust they are in the fire tribe's lands?”

“Barely. Near the border of the Earth Kingdom,” the prince chuckled as he smiled to the princess.

“Wonderful. We shall have a minor feast in celebration, and you may tell us your plans on conquering these traitors, and your soon-to-be subjects. Tell me, prince Blueblood, what is your favorite food?”

“Huh? Oh, blueberries.”

“Wonderful. Flowerbloom, head outside and tell the cooks to prepare their greatest blueberry dishes when we stop in a few hours. We have a wonderful victory to celebrate...”

Twilight groaned as her eyes slowly opened, the world a blur to her. She held her head with her hoof as she looked around. It took her a few seconds to realize she could see things in the room, despite the fact she wasn't lighting the room with her horn.

“She's waking up!” a nearby purple blur said.

“Twilight! Oh dear, oh dear, a-are you okay?” the yellow blur asked. She shook her head and the blurs slowly came into view. Her friends all stood over her, a torch held in Spike's paws.

“W-what... happened?” the alicorn asked as she tried to sit up. Pain shot through her hoof as she let out a shriek of agony. “AGHHH!”

“Careful!” Fluttershy squeaked as she helped the mare lay back down. “Your hoof is hurt,” the pegasus slowly lifted it up, gently blowing on it as the pain dulled to a weak ache. “I think it's broken. I can tend it but-”

“No time,” Twilight groaned as she tried pushing the mare away. “W-we need to keep going. I k-know what I need now. We're m-missing one of the elements and-”

“You're not going anywhere until I say you are, understand?!” Fluttershy snapped as she glared defiantly into the avatar's eyes. The alicorn let out a soft whimper and nodded, before holding out her hoof. “That's better. Poor dear... Now, I'll need to make a wrap to keep the hoof from getting any more hurt. Rainbow, could you please go find a few straight sticks, not too long?”

“On it!” the rainbow-maned pegasus said with a salute, before running out of the room through a tunnel she swore hadn't been there before.

Twilight groaned. “I-I don't think all this is necessary. We still have a long way to go...”

“We'll go a lot faster if you're properly tended to,” Fluttershy mumbled as she looked to Pinkie. “Can you get me some streamers?”

“Oh, sure! I always keep some for a streamer emergency,” the happy earth pony said as she held out a colorful assortment of the papery party decoration.

“How did you know she'd have those?” Spike asked as he stared at the excitable mare.

“I didn't,” Fluttershy admitted. “But I figured it was worth a shot. When in need, use what you have...” She slowly gripped the hoof before gulping. “O-Okay, T-twilight. T-this is going to hurt. I-I'm sorry... I-I really am.”

The alicorn gulped and nodded. “I-it's okay. I- AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” she screamed at the top of her lungs as her leg was forced back into alignment. As the pain finally died down her head rolled back, tears in her eyes. “Grgglmss...”

“I-I'm r-really sorry,” Fluttershy squeaked as she tried to hide herself behind her wings. “I-I didn't want to. I-I understand i-if you're mad at me...”

“N-no... i-it's fine,” the avatar said softly as she tried taking deep breaths. “T-the pain was just... t-temporary. Y-you can fix it, right?”

“Well, yes,” the pegasus mumbled. “But... it... it could take a few days. Maybe a week. But you won't be able to travel.”

“WHAT?!” Twilight shrieked and shook her head. “No. Nuh uh. No way. No chance. We don't have a week. Do you know how many ponies could end up dying if I delayed a week?”

Fluttershy sighed before nodding. “I... can probably make a crutch when we get back to town. But, uhhh... we'll be traveling slowly. It could take even longer to heal then...”

“I'll just have to make do,” the avatar said firmly. “Just... make whatever you have to. But please, be quick.” The pegasus nodded slowly. Twilight sighed again before looking around. “Where did that tunnel come from?”

“After the collapse we had to run outside,” Spike said with a sigh. “The entire thing fell apart behind us, so we tried looking for another way in. Rainbow even tried digging you out, but she couldn't move the stones. Then she started yelling about seeing two ponies and she chased after them. We didn't see any pony, but she found the staircase. We just popped it open from there.”

The alicorn nodded, “Heh. Two ponies... I saw them too. They led me here... I wonder where they went.”

“So, where's the alicorn amulet?” Pinkie asked as she hopped around.

“It wasn't here.”

The earth pony froze. “W-what? Of course it's here, silly. That's where it was hidden. We need it for the finale of the book.”

“The what?” Twilight stared at the pony and shook her head. “I looked. It was gone. Well, it wasn't in its box. I don't know-”

“It has to be there!” Pinkie turned and ran up the stairs.

“What's with her?” Twilight asked.

“I don't know,” Spike said with a shrug. “That was a little weird even for her. I guess she really wanted you to find the amulet, maybe?”

Sweetie smiled as she gingerly nibbled at her blueberry tart. They had finally stopped and, as she watched, Blueblood ate his blueberry pie with the greatest of poise. He refused to speak of the information on his home until after their meal, but she was patient. She merely nibbled at her own food as she watched him take his sweet time nipping and chewing at a third of the pace of a normal pony.

Flowerbloom and Scootaloo were sitting a few feet from them, their food already long devoured. They watched with fascination as the two royal ponies seemed to fight over who could eat with more refinery and poise.

It wasn't long before the rest of the guards had gathered to watch the display as well, their meals finished. The two unicorns would slowly cut off a small chunk of their food before, gingerly nipping at it a few times. They'd then slowly pop it in their mouths and begin the long, slow, mind numbing process of chewing and then swallowing. Finally, Scootaloo snapped. “WILL YOU TWO KNOCK IT OFF AND JUST FINISH YOUR DINNER ALREADY?! I've seen three legged turtles find and eat a weeks supply of food faster than this!”

Sweetie snickered as she looked to the prince. “Ah, it seems they are getting impatient. Shall we move onto business?”

The stallion hmphed as he placed the remains of his pie down. “Very well, if we must. Now, gathering the fire benders is a simple process, it's getting to them that is difficult. You see, they reside within the Everfree Forest.”

“Oh?” the young princess asked as she lowered her tart to a nearby plate. “I believe I've heard of such a place. We lost a great general there, I imagine your little tribe eliminated them?”

“Hmph, hardly,” Blueblood said with a snort. “None of those ponies are fighters. Cowards, the lot of them. The woods are what protect them. Sadly, getting through the woods would be impossible. While I imagine you are not short on pony power, as the only guide I would never be able to get such a large force through the dangers.”

“What dangers could a single forest hold?”

“The Everfree Forest is... a strange place. The magic there changes things. Helpless animals become pony eating monsters. The trees themselves try to destroy you.”

“Interesting,” Sweetie mumbled as she rubbed her chin. “So, what do you suggest?”

“Easy,” the prince said with a chuckle. “Our home is located close to Thunder Valley. In fact, it is partially through our efforts that the place has become so dangerous. A sufficiently large force could land in the valley and tear the forest apart. The fire benders would be helpless. Most of them would never leave their home, for fear of what resides in the woods. Many of those who would pose any credible threat would be to busy trying to help the others escape to be able to do anything. With their homes occupied and the forest surrounded, they would either die or be forced to surrender. Simple.”

The mare nodded slowly as she continued to rub her chin. “Your plan is an interesting one.” She hopped to her hooves and motioned to Scootaloo. “But I do believe you're telling the truth. Yes, once we make it to our next destination we will head towards this location. I will send a message home for my forces to gather in the Thunder Valley. Disable him.”

The pegasus suddenly darted in close. Her hooves darted out, one clipping the tip of his horn as another hit him right above the temple. A second later a third clipped his back. The pony wobbled for a moment before regathering his footing. “W-what? What was that? Traitor!” he yelled as he thrust his horn forward. Nothing happened. His eyes went wide as he looked up at his horn. “What... my horn... how did you... but... how... what?”

“I took away your bending,” Scootaloo said with a smirk. “Fire benders use their bending through the tip of their horn and the upper part of the back. Easy to remove, once you know the points.”

The unicorn backed away as his eyes went wide. “W-what? Why? You made an oath!” he yelled as he pointed an accusing hoof at the princess.

“Oh, and I intend to keep it,” Sweetie said as she got to her hooves. “You will be the most powerful fire bender in the Water Nation. No, in the world.” She stepped towards him as her soldiers moved in to grab him. “For perhaps an hour. I will allow you the privilege of having your horn removed last. Then, for your loyalty to the Water Nation, I will allow you to live out your days as an earth pony subject.”

“You can't do this!” the prince welled as he struggled against the ponies holding him. “W-we had a deal! I am giving them to you!”

Sweetie growled as her horn glowed. Water shot out from a nearby glass and formed long, narrow shards of ice under his throat. “Do not deem yourself worthy of telling me what I can or cannot do. If you wish to push my generosity to the limits, perhaps I can slay you now,” her eyes glowed a dark purple as she glowered at the pony. “Well?”

Blueblood trembled as he slowly lowered his eyes. “Y-yes...”

“Yes, what?”

“B-becoming an... earth pony,” he struggled to say the word as it left a foul taste on his mouth. “Is... is acceptable.”

“Good,” Sweetie said as she turned. “Now, have him thrown in the storage on the back of the tank. I'd like to see him try to fire bend his way out of that,” she snickered. The soldiers instantly obeyed as they dragged the broken prince off.

Flowerbloom watched the princess nervously. “Was that necessary? I mean, why take his bending away?”

“He is a bender,” the unicorn said quickly. “We cannot allow his kind to remain. I would do the same to any like him.”

“I-I see,” the earth pony said as she squeaked and looked down at the ground. She quickly made her way back to the tank, to prepare for their departure.

Chapter 9: Quiet Reminders

“I-it's not there,” Pinkie said, her eyes wide with shock as she descended down the stairs.

“I know, that's what I said,” Twilight grumbled. Rainbow had returned with a number of long, thin sticks so Fluttershy was finishing the brace. “Why would you think it was there?”

“But, but it was supposed to be. That's not fair...” the pink earth pony grumbled as she glared upwards. “I'm sure we'll find it though... we better,” she growled.

The avatar sighed and shook her head. “There is no way this Pinkie sense can explain all this...”

“How does your leg feel?” Fluttershy asked gently as she got up.

The alicorn moved the leg to the side and smiled. “No pain. Just AYYYYYEEEEEEE!” she screamed as she tried to get up using it. She fell onto her side as tears streaked down her face.

“Twilight! D-don't try walking on it!” the pegasus said quickly as she put her hooves over the leg and softly breathed on it. After a few moments the pain subsided. “It'll take a while to heal. For now, just let us help you, okay?”

“O-of course,” the alicorn squeaked softly as her friends slowly helped her up. She leaned heavily on the yellow pegasus.

“When we get outside, you can even fly,” Spike offered.

“Pfft, it would be faster to drag her everywhere,” Rainbow said with a snicker.

“I don't fly that slowly!” Twilight shrieked in protest. “I just... don't quite have the skill you do.”

The blue pegasus smiled and moved to the alicorn's side. “Relax, I'm just teasing. Come on, we'll get you back to town.”

The avatar nodded and sighed as they began the slow ascent up the newly revealed stairs. “I saw Starswirl again. He told me what I have to do now.”

“Oh?” Spike asked with a chuckle. “Let me guess. Find an earth bending teacher?”

“No!” Twilight objected. “Well... okay, yes. But there's more to it than that. He told me there are five others out there who I have a special connection with. Who, when I go into the avatar state, will grant me the power I need to fight our enemies. I think four of the five are all of you.”

“Oh?” Spike asked, as a grin formed on his lips.

“Yes. Laughter, loyalty, kindness, generosity and honesty,” the avatar said with a nod. “Though, the only ones I'm sure of is that Fluttershy is generosity and Pinkie is laughter.”

“W-what?” Fluttershy squeaked. “B-but I'm not that, I mean, I-I've never, but...”

“You're the most giving mare I've ever met, who else could it possibly be?” Twilight asked with a smile.

“B-but, I ummm... I-I don't think I'm really... any of those... but...” the meek mare squeaked as she chewed on her lower lip.

Pinkie raised a hoof and opened her mouth, before quickly shaking her head.

“Nonsense. I'm still not sure which elements Rainbow and Spike represent though,” Twilight mumbled.

“Pfft, I'd be honesty,” Rainbow said with a snicker. “Because I'm honestly awesome!” She started to dash off again, but stopped as she realized she was still supporting the alicorn.

“Maybe,” Twilight snickered and glanced to Spike. “I imagine you'd be loyalty. You've stuck with me far longer than you needed to, even though I... well...”

The dragon shrugged, “Whatever. You'd be lost without me anyway. Besides, if I left, the Great Dragon would be super mad.”

She snickered, “Sure. That still leaves one element to be found though,” the alicorn mumbled as they finally came to the top of the stairs. The fresh, clean air of the forest filled their lungs as they let out a soft sigh. The dusty underground no longer surrounded them as the dim light of the moon cast its soft glow on them. “How long was I down there?”

“A few hours,” Rainbow said with a shrug. “We can probably make it back to Drowsy Void before dawn.” The young mare let out a soft yawn.

“Okay,” Twilight smiled sheepishly. “We can get there, and then take a few hours nap. I don't wanna be too hard of a task driver.”

“Pfft, right,” the blue pegasus smirked. “I could stay up for days if I really wanted to. No problem.”

“You're not the only one in our group,” the avatar mumbled as she glanced to Spike and Fluttershy. The two were starting to look quite tired as well, their eyes drooping. She couldn't see Pinkie, as the earth pony was behind them. But she was certain the other mare was getting just as tired, or hopping up and down as if sugar flowed through her veins. “Maybe we can get some nice, relaxing beds to sleep in, too.”

Sweetie sighed as she lounged on her cot. The gentle hum of the tank vibrated around her, the gentle rumbling attempting to lull her to sleep. Unfortunately, her mind was too busy thinking of other things. The snores of the soldiers who were off duty weren't helping matters either. She rolled onto her stomach as she struggled to let sleep take her. Thoughts of her sister continued to spill into her head.

She imagined them back home again, together. Designing new outfits for the soldiers. Going camping. Maybe, just maybe, they'd even be able to share relationship advice! She certainly hoped that her sister didn't already have a colt friend. Having him executed would put a damper on their relationship, but she just had to make sure that she saw any such relationship from the beginning.

The tank suddenly ground to a halt as she let out a groan and pulled the blanket close. Soon, her fears were answered as she felt somepony nudging her leg. “Your highness,” one of the soldiers whispered. “There is... are... well... you'll want to see this.”

Sweetie groaned as she crawled out from bed, already missing its warmth as she trotted to the tanks hatch and slowly climbed out. Her eyes went wide as she saw the ponies that stood before her. “What... why are... all you soldiers out this far?”

A large force of the Water Nation's soldiers stood before the tank, a number of unicorns in front. The closest one saluted. “Your highness, we are an advance invasion force. We regret to inform you that the town of Drowsy Void has not been captured. Even with your reinforcements we- yipe!” he let out a yelp as a narrow shard of ice landed by his hoof.

“We are not your reinforcements,” the mare growled. “You did, however, mention the next town? How far is it from here?”

“About a day and a half,” the stallion said nervously.

“And the avatar, was she there?” Sweetie asked with a gleam in her eye.

“The... avatar? I am not aware. We were driven off by... monsters, your highness.”

The unicorn froze as her eyes narrowed. “Monsters? What sort of monsters?”

“H-horrible fire breathing monsters! Large dogs from the pits of tartarus that spit flame and EEK!” he shrieked as another shard of ice shot past him, just barely missing his eye.

“That was obviously the avatar, you foal!” she screamed as she slammed her hooves down on the tank's metal frame. The powerful blow sent an echo through the gathered ponies as they kept their gazes lowered. “Her fire bending obviously had the lot of you hiding and wetting yourself like frightened fillies!” Steam began to fill the air as her rage boiled the water around her. “You useless, pathetic, whimpering foal! You're lucky I don't have the lot of you executed!” she growled. “You will take us to this town. I swear, if your foalishness has cost me my chance to capture my prize, I will make you beg for death.”

The unicorn nodded slowly as his hooves shook. Slowly he turned back the way he came and began to quickly march. Though he was tired from spending the last two days running from the monsters that resided in the forest, the demon that commanded the tank frightened him far more.

Twilight groaned as the five made their way towards the village. The sun was only beginning to rise, but already she could hear ponies yelling at each other. It didn't take her long to find out why.

Velveteye was standing outside his home, the door barred behind him with a few boxs he was sitting on. A number of ponies were outside the home, yelling at him. “He's a water bender, we can't let his kind stay here!”

“He's not a water bender,” the earth pony said with a shake of his head. “He's just a unicorn. The avatar trusts him and I gave my word I would keep him safe until her return.”

“It's been a whole day, she should be back by now. I bet he's behind it! We should string him up and find out what he knows!” another pony hollered. “The avatar could be in danger!”

“Enough!” the mayor yelled. “I will hear no more of this! Go back to your homes! I will not allow this stallion to be harmed, I have given my word!”

The crowd ignored his orders as they continued to yell, push and shove towards the house, but fortunately none seemed willing to force their way past the older stallion. Twilight shook her head. “I should have known. At least the mayor is a pony of his word.” She continued limping forward, supported by her friends, as a ball of flame gathered at the tip of her horn. After a few seconds it shot up, into the air, and exploded with a loud boom.

The crowd shrieked as the ponies turned in fear. “Avatar, you're alive!” a pony yelled.

“Yes, I'm alive!” she snapped angrily. “What do you think you're doing? That pony helped me drive off the soldiers preparing to attack all of you, not to mention warning us about them. Yes, he did steal from you, useing underhoofed means, but he also saved your lives. After all that, you decide to turn to torture and attack the moment I'm not here?”

The ponies sheepishly turned their gazes to the ground, unable and unwilling to look her in the eyes. Twilight let out a sigh and sat down. “Listen. I know he's from the Water Nation, but that doesn't make him bad. They are ponies, just like us. I'm sure there are plenty there who want this war to end just as badly as all of us. I'm asking you to give this pony a chance. Please. He should be judged based on his own acts, not on where he was born.”

Rainbow leaned in and whispered. “Weren't his own acts stealing a bunch of food and terrifying all the ponies here by making them think he was a necromancer?”

Twilight sighed and face hoofed. Unfortunately, she used her broken hoof. Her scream cut through the air so viciously that the crowd ducked down and cowered in fright.

Sweetie was shaken awake as the tank was suddenly jarring left and right, flinging her and a number of others from their cots. She shrieked as she ended up in the middle of a painful pile of panicking ponies. “GET OFF ME!” she screamed as she struggled to shove them off her. “What is going on?!” There was a sudden crack as the tank jerked up one more time, then stopped. Outside she could hear screams and howls of pain as another explosion tore through the air. Finally, she managed to crawl out from the pile and run to the exit of the tank, crawling out.

The scent of burnt fur and metal filled her nostrils instantly. The scene in front of her was so confusing she couldn't understand it for a few moments. Many of her soldiers were laying on the ground, their bodies charred. Many more were trying to hide near the front of the tank. She turned towards the back as her mouth fell open.

Blueblood was running. A number of her soldiers were laying on the ground, screaming or unmoving. The rest were too busy cowering to give chase. “What are you doing?! After him!” Sweetie yelled as she motioned towards the stallion.

A pony called up from his cowering spot at the front of the tank “Your highness, he, he threw lightning! The back of the tank, he-” the pony let out a scream as a shard of ice seemed to materialize through his leg.

“I ordered you to go after him, not make excuses! Any pony who is not wounded, pursue!” she ordered as she started to climb from the tank. She let out a shriek as she quickly leaped off about halfway down. Her hooves sizzled slightly as she stamped them out and stared at the tank. The entire back end had been blown clear off and parts of the wheels were melted into thick slag. She let out an angry cry of frustration as she turned to examine the wounded. Others were crawling from the tank as she started pacing. “Gather the wounded. I want a status report. How many casualties and how long until the tank will be moving?”

The soldiers instantly got to work as soon as they climbed from the damaged vehicle. Flowerbloom and Scootaloo moved to their friend and smiled nervously. “Easy,” the pegasus said. “Don't worry. We still have all the information we need, right? No point in getting super upset. He's just one fire bender, right?”

“ONE FIRE BENDER?! He needs to be... no,” the unicorn said as she took deep breaths. Purple slowly began to leak from her eyes. “Y-you're right. He's just one. I know where that entire village is,” she mumbled.

“How do you know he wasn't lying?” Flowerbloom asked.

Sweetie whipped her head around and glowered at the earth pony. “Oh, trust me. I am very good at telling when a pony is lying to me. Just call it a talent...” A chill ran down Flowerbloom's back as she nervously gulped.

“Princess Sweetie Belle,” a mare said as she walked up and bowed. “The damage is severe. It will take at least a day before the tank will be operational. Three soldiers died and a few dozen are suffering from second degree burns or worse. Without the tank operational, there will be no way to move them. We'll have to wait here pleasedon'tstabme!” the mare shrieked as she closed her eyes.

The princess stared at the cowering mare, her eyes glowing purple for a moment. She dug her hooves into the ground. “Would we have enough to take the town if we left all the wounded behind?”

“SWEETIE!” Scootaloo snapped. “You can't actually mean to just abandon our soldiers. They're hurt, they need medical aid.”

“But they-”

“They'll die if we leave them here,” the pegasus snapped as she glared back into the princess's eyes. Sweetie stared back, anger in them, but after a moment the purple leaked away.

“You... are right,” the unicorn said with an annoyed sigh. “Get working on the tank immediately and tend to the wounded. Also, we need to get it off the road. If any ponies come looking about, capture or kill them.” She paused for a moment as she stared at the back of the tank. “What happened here, anyway?”

“Apparently the prisoner blew his way out,” the mare said with a nervous gulp. “Some of the wounded were yelling about lightning. The container was well insulated from fire but.... errr... electricity and lightning would have been another issue entirely.” She let out a fearful squeak and took a step back. “B-but I'm certain we'll catch him! Whatever he used to escape from there, h-he likely received a lot of damage as well! He won't be able to flee forever, and I'm certain we'll catch him!” the mare repeated as she took a step back.

Sweetie growled and then turned away. “Very well. Tend to the wounded and have the tank operational as soon as possible. As soon as it is, we depart to the village. No more stops, no more rest until we arrive. Do I make myself clear?”

“Y-yes your highness,” the mare said as she bowed and galloped off, soon tending to the wounded leg of the last pony to speak with the angry princess.

Twilight took slow, steady breaths as she watched Fluttershy work on properly bandaging the leg. The pegasus made sure to take extra care as she used small pieces of metal to lock the leg firmly in place. Soon the cast was finished as the nervous yellow pony gulped. “H-how does it feel?” she asked with a squeak.

“It feels fine. Will I be able to walk with it?” the alicorn asked as she looked her friend over. The others had already retired and small bags were beginning to form under her healing friend's eyes.

“No. You'll need us to... ummm...” the tired mare struggled as she spoke. “Help carry you. Leaning. You'll need to lean on us. Maybe fly a bit, though I'd advise against it. Landing could be dangerous without all four legs. Ummmm...”

“Thank you, Fluttershy. You can go to bed now,” the avatar said with a smile. The pegasus gave a grateful nod before trotting off, soon dropping onto a small cot the mayor had offered them. Unfortunately, Twilight still had a lot of work to do. She limped towards the front door and slowly pushed it open. Outside, she could see the ponies working and performing their daily tasks.

Shadowhoof was... attempting to help. He had tried helping in the fields, but the stallion was completely useless at any garden work. They now had him hauling and pulling produce about for them, a task he seemed to lack the stamina for. Twilight shook her head as she looked around. “Velveteye!” she yelled when she finally caught sight of the stallion. He looked up from a small stack of produce and began to trot over.

“Yes, avatar?” he asked with a smile. “Is your leg doing better?”

“It's fine for now. I need to speak with you and everypony else. We need to settle the matter with him,” she motioned towards the unpatriotic soldier as she tried to blink away the drowsiness. “After we're done with that, I really need to get some sleep. How long would it take to get every pony together?”

“Not long, avatar. To be honest, most ponies were hoping to speak with you,” the mayor glanced around. “If you look, you'll see most of them keep staring at you when they think you aren't looking.”

“Wonderful,” Twilight mumbled as she did do a quick glance. Most of the ponies were pretending to be working on their tasks, though most of their attention was focused on her. She even saw one pony 'examining' a piece of fruit over and over, as his eyes kept shifting to the avatar. “Please get every pony together so...” she was cut off as she let out a yawn, shaking her head as she tried to focus. “Just, get them together.”

The stallion nodded as he trotted off. Within a few moments nearly the entire village was sitting before her, staring up as if she was their teacher. She cleared her voice before motioning Shadowhoof up besides her. “Okay, this needs to be settled now,” she said quickly. “I will be leaving soon after I wake up. This pony can help you, especially if the Water Nation comes back. He knows their methods, their orders and even knows a few of them personally.” She then took a deep breath before shaking her head. “If you don't wish for him to, or he does not wish to stay, I am more than willing to take him with me when I head north.”

A pony raised his hoof into the air before yelling out. “But he's a-”

“A what? A member of the Water Nation?” she snapped. “Do you know who is raising and keeping the moon moving every night? The ponies that are risking themselves in order to return the cycle of the sun and moon to how they belong? The leader of those ponies is named Vinyl Scratch. She's not only a water bender, she was at one time the general of the Water Nation's forces.” The crowd let out a collective, frightened gasp. “She is a great pony who saw the horrible things that her country was doing and opposed them as best she could... sure, that method involved running away but... anyway! She and her other water benders are great ponies. They aren't emotionless monsters waiting to snatch you up and kill you the moment they get a chance. They live, breath, fight and die just like the rest of us. If I knew where they were right now, I'd even send this pony there.” She gestured to Shadowhoof, who was keeping his head hung. Many in the crowd were reacting in a similar manner.

“How do we know he won't turn on us?” a pony yelled.

Twilight looked to the stallion and then looked to the side. “Well... to be completely honest. I'm pretty sure they'd execute him if he tried. I mean, he's driven off a number of their forces and he-” she was cut off as a loud, high pitched squeal filled the air. It took her a moment to realize it was the Water Nation pony. He was on the ground now, his hooves over his head. “Errr, are you okay?”

“Oh, by the stars you're right! They're going to kill me! They're going to find me and torture me and tear off my hooves and kill me!” the pony wailed.

The alicorn stared, barely managing to resist face hoofing. “You're afraid of this?!” she asked as she pointed a hoof towards the simpering stallion. “He whimpers more than Fluttershy!” She then turned and lightly patted the unicorn on the head. “There there. No pony is going to get you. The Water Nation has already been driven off, so there shouldn't be any more attacks, at least for a while.” She then turned back to the crowd. “Does anypony else have objections to him? Feel he's too dangerous a threat?”

The crowd slowly murmured their acceptance of him remaining. She let out a sigh as she turned and limped away. She then stopped before looking to Shadowhoof. “It'll be fine, really. There shouldn't be any more attacks here for at least a while. The earth benders and your illusions should be more than enough to keep anything from getting too bad. So just relax, and try to make friends. If you wish to come with us, just tell me and you are welcome.” She then turned and headed back into the house. She collapsed on the nearest piece of furniture she could find, a chair, and soon lost consciousness as she sunk into its padded embrace.

Rarity stood over Littlewing, glaring down at him as the little colt cowered. “P-please, m-mercy...” he begged.

The unicorn hmphed as she stomped a hoof down, snapping his wing to pieces as he screamed. “There can be no mercy,” she growled as she ground her hoof into the crushed bones.

“S-stop!” the pegasus howled as tears flowed down his face. “Please stop! I-I surrender!”

“It's time for you to die!” the fallen princess yelled as water formed around her and then slashed down in the form of shards of ice. They impaled the colt... just as he turned from a small pegasus into a very familiar unicorn.

“S-sister...” Sweetie choked out as she stared up, the shards of ice impaled through her body.

Rarity shot up, her body coated in sweat. She looked around in confusion at the world around her. She was laying on a bed of grass, her aunt nestled besides her. The grass was so tall it managed to hide their sleeping forms from the road, not that she expected anypony to find them. They hadn't seen a single pony since they started down this road.

“Hmmm?” Celestia groaned as her head slowly rose. “Niece? What's wrong?”

“I... I just...” she chewed on her bottom lip as she slowly got up, letting out a groan as her sore body objected to the movements. “I had a dream about... about Sweetie Belle. I... I attacked her...”

The aged unicorn slowly got up, her own body objecting after the night of sleeping on rough ground. “Now, niece. I know this must be difficult for you. You remember your little sister as she once was. Not... not as she is now. She's gone now, and nothing you do will ever bring her back.”

“How can you keep saying that?!” Rarity screamed as she stomped a hoof down. “After... after what I've done. How can I get forgiveness, yet she is beyond redemption?”

“Because that is no longer her!” Celestia yelled. “I've seen it! I've experienced it! That is no longer my sister, that is a monster that has taken over and destroyed everything you ever knew and loved about her!”

“Your sister?”

“I-I meant... your sister. She... she's no longer the sister you knew. She... I...”

Rarity turned her head and started walking through the tall grass, back onto the road. “Come on. We have a lot of ground to cover. Who knows how long until this road brings us to another town?”

Her aunt slowly nodded and followed after the unicorn. The two walked in silence, their minds focused on their own matters. The young princess gave her aunt a nervous look before shaking her head and lowering her gaze.

Twilight groaned as her eyes slowly opened. A thin blanket now laid over her, warming her in its gentle embrace. She felt so snug and comfortable that she never wanted to move again. So of course she tried to crawl out of the chair and fell out with a shriek. “Ahhhhh!”

“Smooth,” Spike said as he walked by, sipping a glass of water. “Want some lunch?”

“I want to sleep another twelve hours,” the alicorn grumbled as she got up, teetering slightly on her good leg. “I'm not sure I could move enough to eat. What time is it?”

The little dragon shrugged. “A little after noon, I guess? The others already woke up and are getting everything ready to go.” A small drop of drool oozed from the dragons lips, though he quickly licked it away. “They even had some spare gemstones they gave us for the trip. I'm going to get a nice, proper meal for once...”

Twilight nodded as she tried hobbling towards the door. Each step made her nearly fall over as she struggled to balance on her single front hoof, forced to take short, quick steps with it each time. She made it a couple feet before the dragon moved over and hooked an arm under her broken one. “Here. Don't want you breaking anything else,” he mumbled as he slowly helped her to the door.

She smiled as she glanced outside. “Thanks. You're an excellent assistant” Her friends were talking with the mayor. Well, Rainbow and Pinkie were. Fluttershy was too busy trying to make herself as small as possible while simultaneously pretending to be extremely interested in the contents of the large wagon she was sitting in. “Everything going smoothly?” Twilight yelled as she was slowly guided towards the group.

“Huh? Yeah,” the blue-coated pegasus said as she waved. “Just getting some last minute directions. Mayor says we should just keep heading north. Next town isn't too far off, apparently close enough they were able to travel there during the eternal night. Called Sweet Apple Acres. Supposedly some of the best apples in the Earth Kingdom.”

The avatar nodded as she chuckled softly and glanced into the wagon that was filled to the brim with hay, corn, apples and a small bundle of gems. “I think we have plenty as it is. How long will it take to get there?”

“Normally? About a day at a quick pace,” Velveteye said as he glanced to the mare. “But with your leg, it'll probably take a bit longer.”

“Hmph, we'll see about that,” Rainbow said as she smirked. “I'm the fastest in all the countries, with me pulling the cart we'll get there in half the time it would take a normal pony.”

The mayor shook his head. “I'd advise against that! This old carts not the best. You go running around at max speed, you'll likely lose a wheel or something. It should be more than capable of getting you and your friends to the capital though, if you walk slow and steady.”

“Ugh, fine...” the pegasus grumbled as she motioned into the wagon. “Hop in, Twilight. We got a long way ahead of us.”

“W-what?” the alicorn squeaked. “I couldn't possibly ask you to pull me around, I-”

“You're not asking, I'm telling. Besides, you need to give your leg a chance to heal. This is the easiest way. Fluttershy, can you help me get hooked up?”

The other pegasus nodded as she moved forward and began to harness the other mare. Spike and Pinkie moved to either side of the avatar and slowly helped her inside. She then glanced around. “Where is the Water Nation pony?”

“I'm here,” Shadowhoof said as he stepped forward from the gathering ponies. “I... I've decided to stay. They'll need me if they are attacked again and I want to make it up to them for what I did... also I figure there's probably less of a chance of the Water Nation coming here than there is them coming after you.”

Twilight smiled and nodded. “Can't argue with that. I wish you the best of luck,” she said as the cart began to move The gathered crowd of ponies waved and cheered as they departed.

“Good bye, Avatar!”

“Be strong! We'll never forget you!”

“We know you'll defeat the Water Nation!”

“We'll miss you avatar Chickenwings!”

The last one made Twilight freeze and then glare at Rainbow. “How could you?!”

The pegasus merely snickered as she continued trotting down the road, the cart pulled slowly behind her.

Chapter 10: Savage Trials

Twilight struggled to keep from groaning as the cart bounced around under her. It was Rainbow's job to pull the cart safely, but every so often she would begin pulling at such a quick rate that the cart jostled and shook wildly, even when they told her to slow it down the pegasus would start speeding up after a few minutes. They had finally just given in, but the wild ride made the alicorn's broken hoof throb considerably.

She was laying in the back, on top of a small 'bed' that Fluttershy had made by stacking all the supplies around her, to give her a bit of shade, then putting a small blanket in the space. It had proved comfortable enough to allow a few hours of sleep, but the moment the sun was directly over them it became impossible for her to sleep with all the jostling. The only upside was that, for the first time in a while, they had plenty to eat on the trip. As a matter of fact, she quite believed they would make it to the next town without running out. Assuming they didn't crash, explode, burn up or get ambushed on the way. She almost expected they would. She let out a shriek as a sudden bump tossed her a foot in the air. “RAINBOW SLOW DOWN!”

“Fiiiiine,” the pony said with a grumble. The cart suddenly slammed to a halt, sending the alicorn into the cart's wall.

“RAINBOW! What was that for?!” the avatar growled as she sat up.

“I had to. Just, look...” the pegasus grumbled as she pointed ahead. The road was covered in... baby bouncing bunnies, charging out from the tall grass towards the opposite side of the road. “Heh, why did the bunnies cross the road?”

“Oh dear,” Fluttershy squeaked as she flew down towards the baby bunnies. “N-now bunnies, calm down. It's going to be okay... bunnies?” she squeaked as suddenly one of them ran up and kicked her hoof. She pulled it back and shook her head. “I-I'm sorry. I was just trying to help...” she said with a little whimper as she laid down on her stomach and trembled. The bunny stared up at her in confusion before slowly leaning up and patting her on the head. “Y-you're not mad?” The little bundle of white fluff shook his head. “O-oh, okay. What scared you, little dears?”

The yellow pegasus slowly got back to her hooves and began walking around, gently humming as she went. After a few moments the small herd began to gather around her, led by the small one that had kicked her a little bit ago. “Now, you poor dears, where did you come from?” Dozens of little tiny black eyes stared at her as whiskers lightly wiggled about. “Now come on, show me. Don't worry, I won't let anything harm you, I promise.”

Finally the little bunnies turned back the way they came, hopping into the grass. Fluttershy followed after them as her friends exchanged glances, before following as well. After a few moments they came to a small rabbit hole. Or rather, the remains of one. The ground behind it had caved in, slowly leading outwards to where the entrance had caved as well.

“Oh dear,” she said softly. “Did... did something step on your home? Why wou- ahhh!” her eyes went wide as she flew towards the hole. “Oh no oh no!”

“Fluttershy, what is it?” Twilight asked as she looked around, a small flame beginning on the tip of her horn.

“The mommy!” she squeaked as she dug her hooves into the ground and began digging out the back end of the bunnies home. Within a few moments she let out a pained yelp as she pulled back her hoof, a small trickle of blood going down. From the hole popped a large, fat brown bunny that quickly charged at her. The pegasus let out an eek as she flew up into the treeline and trembled. “S-sorry...”

“Hey, you!” Rainbow yelled as she flew down and towered over the momma bunny. She glared down angrily. “Fluttershy just unburied your fluffy bum and helped gather all your little babies up. Then you go and bite her? You owe her your life!” the pegasus snapped.

“R-rainbow, it's okay,” Fluttershy squeaked. “She was just frightened... I don't mind, really.”

“No!” the blue pegasus snapped as she shoved a hoof into the vicious rabbit’s chest. “Now apologize.”

“Rainbow,” Twilight mumbled. “She's a little rabbit. I don't think she understands you...”

“Oh. Right. Ummm, then... right,” the pegasus glanced down at the now frightened bunny. “Well... don't do it again,” she said before flying back off towards the cart. “Come on, Fluttershy. We're leaving.”

“R-right, sorry, coming...” the pegasus mumbled as she slowly glided back towards the wagon. “S-sorry...”

“Complete waste of time,” Rainbow grumbled as she started again.

“I think that was wonderful,” Twilight said as she patted her shy friend on the back. “You were absolutely amazing at calming the little bunnies down! I've never seen- eek!” The cart suddenly stopped as the alicorn was thrown forward into one of the walls. “RAINBOW!”

“Sorry! It's not my fault, we got another blockage!” the blue pegasus yelled. The three ponies and dragon peered over the edge and stared.

Blocking the way was a small bunny, staring up at her with its little arms crossed while tapping its foot. Fluttershy eeked and hopped down to move to the rabbit. “Oh dear, it must have gotten lost. I'll take it back and... huh?” the little creature shook its head as the pegasus just stared. “You don't wanna go back? What about your momma and brothers and sisters?” The little bunny thumped the ground and shook its head. “Then what do you... did you want to come with us?” It nodded its head rapidly.

“What? You gotta be kidding me,” Rainbow said with a roll of her eyes. “It's bad enough we have Spike-”

“Hey!” the dragon objected.

“But we can't have another little tiny thing running around and getting into trouble,” the pegasus poked a hoof at the bunny. “He'll just get in the way. Look, he's smaller than my YOWWWWW!” she shrieked as the rabbit lunged forward and sank its little fangs into her hoof. She shook her hoof as hard as she could. “Gedditoff! Gedditoff!”

Fluttershy quickly darted in and took the bunny off her friend, holding it close in a hug. “Now now, that wasn't a very nice thing to do.” The little rabbit stuck its tongue out at the angry speedster.

“Rotten little demon spawn,” Rainbow growled as she rubbed her hoof.

“Oh, no,” the shy pegasus squeaked as she gently pet the bunnies head. “He was just scared. I'm sure he's just a darling little angel, right? You won't do it again, will you?”

The little bunny smiled innocently up at his keeper. Rainbow let out a little snort as she quickly got hooked back up to the cart. “Fine, whatever,” she grumbled. “Giant waste of time. Shoulda let whatever collapsed those tunnels just devour the little monsters...”

Hours passed and eventually the sun set, though Rainbow continued her trotting forward. Even with the cart pulled behind her, she was finding it easy to continue down the road. It still annoyed her, she liked being fast, agile and lithe. The extra weight made her feel bulky and slow, so she would occasionally put on a burst of speed to feel the wind blowing through her ears. Pinkie even occasionally hopped down to chat with her, even offered to pull the cart, but she wasn't having any of that. The pegasus wanted this trip to be done as quickly as possible, and she was the best mare for the job. She stopped for a moment as they came to a sign and a small fork in the road.

“Well, gee. I wonder which way we go,” the pegasus mumbled as she looked it over. The road split off either north or a quick U-turn to head south-east. Since they came from the south-west, she just kept trotting north up the road.

“Niece, look at that,” Celestia said as she motioned ahead towards the cart being pulled in the darkness. “We should stop them and ask for directions.”

“No point,” Rarity muttered. “It's not like they'd know where the avatar is...” After a few more minutes of trotting they came to the same fork in the road. She glanced after the cart and then towards the road they had come from. “We should camp and rest here for the night.”

“Why not try to catch up with them?” the elder unicorn asked as she motioned towards the cart in the distance. “It wouldn't take long. We-”

“NO!” the fallen princess snapped. “Let's just... let's just camp here for the night. Please.” She stepped off the road and moved into the tall grass, dropping down. After a few moments her aunt joined her.

“Niece, if you are still upset about what-”

“It doesn't matter!” Rarity snapped quickly. “The pony is dead, I killed him, it's too late now. Just... I don't want to talk about it.”

Celestia gazed at her niece, illuminated by the moonlight. With a heavy sigh she moved to lay down besides the young mare. “As you wish...”

“Don't. I just... it's hot. I want to sleep alone,” Rarity whispered as she crawled away from the elder unicorn. Her aunt let out another sigh, but didn't move closer. The princess laid there in silence, eyes closed. She waited, and listened. After what felt like hours she heard the steady sound of her aunt's breathing and she opened her eyes. Celestia was unmoving, curled into a large ball on the ground.

“I'm sorry, auntie,” the young unicorn whispered as she slowly backed away. “My mother may be beyond help, but my sister is not. I will find her and I will save her.” She then turned and walked away from the elder unicorn.

“Twilight! Wake up!” Rainbow yelled as she shook the alicorn. “Look!”

“Wha? Who? I'm up! What?” The confused avatar found her head gripped and then pointed towards a building. In fact, a number of buildings. A whole town of buildings! They'd made it to the town of Sweet Apple Acres! But, that wasn't the thing she was supposed to be focused on. That was taped to the side of a building.

A poster with an image of rocks, ponies bending and, most importantly, a red and silver amulet shaped like a unicorn head with wings on the side. The words 'Alicorn Amulet' were written under it in big, red letters. Her mouth fell open as she jumped from the cart.

Once she managed to stop hyperventilating from the extreme pain in her damaged hoof, she was slowly helped up by her friends and brought to the poster. Her eyes scanned it quickly. “Earth bending tournament, alicorn amulet prize... I can't believe it. It's here! No wonder we couldn't find it, somepony must have stolen it ages ago and now... we can get it! All we need to do is win this tournament!”

Rainbow coughed. “Errr, Twilight? Aren't you forgetting something?”

“What? No. This is perfect, we-”

“Can't earth bend. Not to mention, you have a broken hoof,” the pegasus reminded her.

“I... well... oh. Huh... right. I didn't... yeah,” she lowered her gaze before quickly perking up again. “Of course! Rainbow, you need to take me to the tournament organizer. We'll just explain the situation to him, or her, and surely they'll give us the amulet.

“Uh huh,” Spike grumbled as he rolled over in the cart. “Wake me up once that plan fails.”

“It'll work just fine. I'm the avatar, how could they possibly tell me no?”

“Not a chance in Tartarus,” the gray earth pony snapped as he peered through the open doorway of his home. He was dressed in an unflattering blue nightgown, complete with nightcap. “I don't care if you're the queen of the avatars, if you want the alicorn amulet, you're going to have to pay the entree fee and compete, just like everypony else.” He tried slamming the door shut, but Rainbow quickly blocked the door.

“Hold on!” the pegasus growled. “This is the avatar, just look at her. Alicorn and everything. She needs the amulet to save the world, which includes your sorry butt.”

“I! Don't! Care!” he growled as he tried forcing it shut. “If you want it, take it up with the other competitors. If you want to compete, bug me in the morning! NOT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT!” The door slammed shut, toppling the pegasus back.

“Eesh, what a grouch,” Rainbow hmphed. “It's thanks to you there even is a day and night now, he should be thankful.”

“It's fine,” Twilight said with a sigh. “We'll just have to find a list of the competitors and-”

The blue pegasus began pounding on the door. “Hey! Can you at least give us a list of the competitors then? You owe her at least that much!”

There was an annoyed growl as the door opened again. “Fine! If I tell you where to go, will you leave me the buck alone?!”

“Of course!” Twilight said quickly as she smiled. Progress!

“Go to the farm outside of town. Look for the Apple family, if any pony is going to win, it'll probably be them. Now git!” The door slammed so hard the frame rattled.

Spike stuck his head up, over the edge of the cart. “Told ya. So, can we go and get some real sleep now or...” Twilight and Rainbow turned and glared at him, their eyes narrowed to murderous slits. “N-nevermind,” the little dragon squeaked as he hid.

“I couldn't possibly sleep now,” the alicorn said as she looked around. “We have to find this farm! Once we find these earth benders we-”

“Can find a nice, proper bed to lay on,” Rainbow said with a yawn. “I've been hauling you lot all day, so I'm gonna catch some proper sleep, after a nice relaxing bath. Come on, let's go find this farm,” the pegasus grumbled as she locked herself back up to the cart.

The night air was cool against Rarity's coat as she slowly trotted down the road. Her head hung low as she constantly struggled desperately to keep her eyes open. At least the road kept going straight and didn't veer off at any point. Well, until her vision started getting blurry and she wobbled slightly from side to side. She closed her eyes, just for a moment, and barely registered as she fell to the ground in an exhausted heap.

A few seconds later, at least it felt like it to her, she felt something nudging her side. “Ngrll... go way... sleepy...” she grumbled.

“Wakey wakey princess,” the shaking continued. Then something slammed into her side so hard it nearly caved in her ribs.

Her eyes shot open as she looked up. Three stallions stood over her, unicorns. A crude spear was dangling over her head. “I said wake up,” the nearest one said as his hoof came down on her side again.

She let out a cry of pain before slowly gathering herself. “W-what is the meaning of this? What do you think you're doing? Who do you think you-” another blow to the side of her head brought her down with a sob.

“I said wake up, not give us lip.”

She whimpered and slowly got up, the blade a constant threat against the back of her skull. “Why are you doing this? Who are you?”

“Doesn't matter who we are. What matters is who you are,” the stallion said as he moved in to stroke her cheek. “A pretty little thing. You'd-” his hoof was knocked away as she slammed her hoof into his face. He toppled backwards as the spear was pressed against the back of her head.

“Hey! What do you think you're doing? Try something like that again and you're dead,” the now closest stallion snapped. He looked to his partner. “Check him out, he okay?”

“Holy buck wheat. She knocked him out cold. That's a mean right hook.”

“Toss him off to the side of the road. He can find his way back,” the spear holder growled as he pressed the weapon in slightly harder, threatening to break the skin. “I hope you realize you're going to pay for that. Severely.”

Rarity growled. “I don't have time for this,” the fallen princess snapped. “Do you have any idea who I am? You're wasting my time!”

“Shut up unless you want this spear to go through your head!” the stallion snapped. He gave her a shove, off the road. “Keep walking. If you try anything, I'll kill you. Understand?”

The mare grit her teeth as she walked ahead of them. Despite how tired she had been, she was now completely alert. Her eyes scanned the area, but in the darkness she could see no signs of a significant source of water. For now, she'd have to go along with them.

“We're supposed to get help... here?” Rainbow asked as she cocked an eyebrow. Fields of apple trees, as far as the eye could see, stood in front of them. Within the middle of this great forest of red and green fruits was a large red barn and a number of smaller buildings. “What would farmers know about earth bending?”

“Probably about as much as weather ponies would air bending,” Spike grumbled. “Just go knock on the door and see if any ponies home...”

Pinkie suddenly darted out of the cart and ran to the house, soon pounding on the door. After a few minutes the door opened and a very large, very tired and very red stallion opened the door. He never stood a chance. Instantly the pink pony of pure playfulness tackled him in a tight hug, so fast he actually toppled over. “Big Mac!”

“Eeyup...” the stallion said as he looked down in confusion at the mare.

“What in tarnation is going on down here?” a young orange coated earth pony mare grumbled as she walked into the room. She took one look around the kitchen before glancing down at the two ponies on the ground. The mare blinked a few times before adjusting her cowpony hat and brushing her yellow mane back behind her ears. “Big Mac? Who's this mare? Yah gone and got yourself a mare friend?”

“Nnnope,” the stallion said, letting out a gasp as Pinkie launched herself off him, and onto the new mare. The orange earth pony let out a shriek.

“What in tarnation?!” the mare shrieked. “Get off me yah varmint! What's the big idea, hoppin' around like some kinda jumpin' bean?! Giddoff!”

“Yayyy! We're going to be the bestest buddies ever!” Pinkie said as she hugged the confused mare tightly.

The stallion slowly got up and watched the two. “Big Mac, get her off meh!” the orange earth pony hollered.

He looked them over for a moment before shaking his head. “Nnnnope.”

“Ponies are weird,” Spike mumbled as he tossed a sapphire in his mouth.

“Do yah mind? Why yah all come and buggin' me for? Giddof!” the pony shrieked again.

“Oh, it's really simple. You see we, by that I mean me, Rainbow and Fluttershy, were climbing up this biiiiig mountain when all of a sudden BAM! The entire thing comes down and we find this giant egg! Except, it's not an egg, it has Twilight! Then...” Twilight face hoofed as the pink pony began describing their entire adventure up to this point. The big red stallion merely shrugged and walked towards the stove and lit a fire, soon brewing up a big batch of tea. He motioned for the other ponies to sit down while the story continued. Fluttershy came in last, closing the door behind them before moving to sit down, her little baby bunny held gently in her lap. Before long the group were all watching the display while happily sipping their tea.

“-Then we got here and saw that the alicorn amulet had actually been moved to this tournament, which was kinda weird since we were supposed to find it at the temple but I guess he just wanted an excuse for us to get you in the party. So we woke up the tournament runner guy, but he didn't want anything to do with us unless we could win it, so he suggested we all come here and talk to you!” Pinkie continued with a happy grin. “Then we knocked and I knocked over Big Mac and then you came down and I hugged you and it's so good to see you Ap... errrr. I mean, what's your name?” she asked with shifty eyes. A moment later the gathered ponies clapped their hooves together.

“She did it without even taking a breath, amazing,” Rainbow said with a low whistle. “This is pretty good tea. Do you make it yourself?”

“Eeyup,” the stallion said with a nod.

“Mah name is Applejack. Now would yah kindly get off me!” the orange mare hollered.

“Oh, right, sorry!” Pinkie hopped off and moved to sit at the counter with the others.

“Ugh,” Applejack grumbled as she got up, dusting herself off. “Now, if ah heard all that correctly, yah said you're here tah take on the tournament?” Her eyes glanced over to the avatar as she smiled. “Or rather, looking for somepony tah fight in it for yah?”

“Eeyup!” the pink pony said with a grin. She squeaked at the glare from Big Mac. “Err, I mean, yup. Hee hee.”

“Well, yah came to the right place. But at the wrong time. Yah see, it's way past midnight. Yah all couldn't wait until mornin'?”

Twilight coughed. “I ummm, I'm sorry. It was my idea to come here. We just got into town so we wanted to get all this settled immediately and... sorry...”

Applejack hummed and moved over, nudging the alicorn's wings. After a few seconds a grin formed on her lips. “Well, butter me up and call me a caramel apple. Yah really are the avatar, ain'tcha?”

“Err, yes,” the alicorn said with a nervous gulp. “That's not a problem, is it?”

“Not at all! As a matter ah fact, ah think we can work something out to get this fancy trinket ah yours. But first things first. It's late and don't let anypony eva say the Apples ain't kind tah travelers. Me an' Big Mac will go ahead an' set up some sleepin' arrangements for yah lot. Won't be much, but it'll be better than sleepin' out under the stars. Come on,” Applejack motioned towards the stallion as the two trotted off into the other room.

“Hey!” Rainbow called after them. “Don't suppose you have a bath I could use?”

The earth pony let out a sigh from the other room. “Yeah, jus' hold yet wings on.” The ponie's hoofsteps disappeared into the distance.

“Well, that went well. Ish,” Spike said as he sipped his tea. “This is actually really good. Kinda sweet and tangy.”

“Yeah,” Twilight mumbled as she looked down at her wings. “I hope she meant what she said. It would make things a lot easier.”

“Oh, don't worry your pretty little wings,” Pinkie said as she sipped her tea. “Applejack would never, ever lie to us! If she said we can work something out, we'll work something out.”

“Maybe,” the alicorn mumbled. After a few minutes the five were called into the other room, where a number of blankets and pillows had been set up on the carpeted ground.

“Sorry it ain't much,” Applejack said with a nervous grin. “Didn't expect the avatar an' her friends tah be stoppin' by though. If you're plannin' tah stick around a while we can drag out the ol'-”

“No, nonsense,” Twilight said with a shake of her head. “You're letting us stay under your roof, that's plenty enough as it is. Thank you for your hospitality.”

“Ahem?” Rainbow mumbled, cocking an eyebrow.

“Well, ahright then,” the earth pony said as she started trotting away. “Come along yah blueberry of a pegasus. We'll see about gettin' yah spick an' span. Rest of yah, have a nice night. If yah need anything, jus' give a holler. Not too loud though, Granny Smith is sleepin' like a log an' it's a right challenge getting her back in bed once she gets up.”

“Understood,” the avatar said as she started crawling into the temporary sleeping arrangements, between Spike and Pinkie. “Thank you again for your hospitality.”

“Ain't nothin' we can't handle,” and with those final words the three ponies trotted away.

Rarity let out a squeak as she was tossed, head first, into a small, wooden cage. She quickly got up and shook her head, trying to clear her vision as she peered around in the darkness. She looked back and growled at the ponies outside the cage. “You'll regret this!”

“Sure we will princess,” the spear wielding stallion mumbled as he trotted off.

A low sob brought Rarity's attention back around. Curled up in the corner farthest from her, she could make out a small pony. She slowly trotted towards it. “Hello?”

“H-hi...” the curled bundle mumbled softly. “Are... are you a prisoner as well? Or are you... with them?”

“No. I'm not with them. My name is Ra... Diamondeye. Yours?”

The curled bundle slowly got up, revealing a blue unicorn with a striped white and blue mane. “My name is Colgate. A pleasure to meet you. I hope together we can make the... best of this situation.”

Chapter 11: Unforgiven Villains

Rainbow dove under the covers, shivering heavily as she moved in between Spike and Twilight. The avatar groaned as her eyes slowly opened. “Mggll? Rainbow? What are you- EEEE! You're ice cold! What happened?!”

“B-b-b-bath... s-s-s-so c-c-cold,” the mare squeaked as she pulled both her much warmer friends in.

Spike groaned. “You want me to light you on fire?” he grumbled in annoyance.

“I guess having a fire bender and a dragon to help warm us up has made us a tad bit used to having warm baths,” Fluttershy mumbled as she moved in to help warm her friend. Within a few moments the blue pegasus stopped shivering.

“Used to t-take ice cold baths all the time,” Rainbow grumbled. “Dang avatar making us all spoiled.”

“Well,” Twilight said with a roll of her eyes. “If you want, I can stop warming up the bath water when you want one. Maybe have more baths in icy lakes. Would that make it better?”

“No, no,” the pegasus sighed as she laid down in the blankets, releasing her friends. “So, what do you think of these Apples? Think they'll be able to help us?”

“I don't know,” the avatar said with a sigh. “Maybe? That Applejack kept looking at me funny, I think she might be up to something. I just hope it works in our favor.”

“Well, they're letting us sleep at their place,” Spike interjected. “Even if they can't help us get the amulet, at least we don't have to sleep outside. They even got Rainbow a bath, she hasn't smelt this good in weeks. Mfff!”

“I was just getting all the sweat off, you little lizard,” Rainbow grumbled as she gazed down at him, her hooves holding the pillow over his face. “How about next time you pull the cart all day and see how much you feel like dropping into bed?”

Spike gasped for air as he was finally released from the poofy torture. “Right! I'm sorry, sorry. Also, hey. Dragon. Dra-gon, not lizard. I don't do that tongue thing. I also breath fire.”

“You're also a total wuss,” the pegasus teased as she pulled him in close and gave him a noogie.

“HEY! Stop it! Let go!”

“You two keep it down,” Twilight hissed, though she struggled to keep a straight face. “Remember we're guests here, and we don't want to wake any pony.”

“Fiiiine. Ugh,” Rainbow grumbled as she let the dragon go. He quickly crawled away to sleep closer to Fluttershy. “So, what do we have planned for tomorrow?”

“Work out a plan to get the alicorn amulet. Hopefully everything goes smoothly...” the alicorn mumbled with a sigh. “Not that anything ever does.”

Far from the peaceful town of Sweet Apple Acres, two mares trapped in a small cage discussed the causes of their current imprisonment. “I ended up walking straight into the middle of these stallions camp,” Colgate said with a sigh. “I took one look at their spears and ran. Fortunately for me, they were so surprised that they took a few moments to start pursuit. Unfortunately, with my limp they were quickly gaining. I almost made it to the road right as a cart was passing by but...” The mare lowered her head. “I... the ground caved in under me. I ran right on top of some tunnel and slammed head first into the dirt when it collapsed. By the time I reoriented myself there was a spear to my throat and I was dragged off. I couldn't even yell for help...”

Rarity frowned as she rested back against the bars. Her eyes eventually fell on the five stallions outside the cages, sleeping around a quickly dying fire pit. “I'm sorry about all that. Banished from your home. The earth benders there sound quite cruel.”

“Yes,” Colgate mumbled as she closed her eyes. “The earth benders were... quite cruel. How did you end up out in these parts?”

“I was traveling,” the fallen princess said with a sigh. “Trying to find my sister. I... was pushing myself too hard. I actually fell asleep in the middle of the road. From there, it was easy for them to attack me. This cage doesn't look too sturdy though, I think we can probably escape if we can break some of these ropes.”

“What if they come after us?” the blue unicorn asked nervously.

“If that happens, I'll... I'll think of something. We'll just have to be careful and quiet. Let's each choose a corner of the cage and see if we can work our way out.”

“Very well,” Colgate mumbled as she moved towards the back. Rarity quickly moved towards the front of the cage and looked down at the bindings. The ropes holding the cage together were tight and thoroughly knotted, she imagined it would take her all night to untie even a few, and she'd need to do dozens. Fortunately, she doubted she'd have to untie them.

The young princess glanced towards their captors and, more importantly, the cups that laid besides them. Her horn glowed as the cup slowly lifted off the floor and made its way towards her. She held her breath as the pony nearest it started to stir, as she held the mug frozen in mid air over him. After a few seconds the pony stopped moving and the cup began its journey to the cage anew.

She glanced into the mug as it appeared in front of her, and let out a happy sigh at the sight of a few inches of liquid. She wiped some sweat from her brow and let out a sigh as she leaned back. She couldn't believe how much that simple act had made her sweat. She glanced up at the clear sky as she pondered why it felt so hot tonight. With a shake of her head she refocused on the task at hoof. The liquid, red in color with a fruity scent, slowly lifted from the container and formed a long, narrow blade. The serrated edge began cutting along the ropes and, within a few moments she had the first one cut to pieces.

“Done,” Colgate said suddenly.

“W-what?” Rarity asked as the liquid blade fell into the grass. She turned around and, sure enough, one of the vertical bars of the cage had been removed, all of its ropes missing. Her mouth fell open as she looked around, but she couldn't find any trace of the bindings.

“It'll be a bit of a squeeze, but we should be able so slide under and through these two bars now...” the other unicorn mumbled as she slowly lowered her head and pushed through the bars. After a few moments, and getting her backside trapped for a few seconds, she managed to pop out and roll across the grass for a few seconds.

The princess gulped and quickly followed after. Her eyes looked over the poles. They seemed slightly darker along where the ropes had been. She quickly shook her head as she slid it in between them and began making her escape. The unicorn was half way out when a yell caught her attention.

“Hey! The mares are escaping, get up!” one of the stallions yelled.

Rarity mentally cursed as she kicked and thrashed, eventually popping out from the bars. She tumbled a few feet before getting up. “Quick, let's go!” She quickly began to gallop away, the other mare barely managing to keep up. She began to slow down, allowing the limping unicorn to run with her. It didn't take long before she heard the stallions galloping behind them. “Hurry up! They're going to catch us!”

“Leave me! I can't run as fast, I'm already feeling exhausted,” Colgate gasped out. The princess glanced back, even in the dim moon light she could see the stallions pursuing them, already almost upon them.

She growled as her horn came alive. She felt out for something, anything! Her eyes went wide as she did a sharp turn to the right. “Come on, follow me!”

“W-what are you... d-doing?” the blue unicorn asked as she struggled to keep up. The bandits jeered at them as they came ever closer, the thrill of soon captured prey upon them.

“Just follow!” Rarity yelled as she darted through the grass. After a few moments the grass gave way to dirt and rocks as they stumbled upon a very small creek. The princess was easily able to hop over it to land on the opposite side. Colgate was not so quick, instead having to run through it, though it was only a few inches deep so she easily made it to the other side. Once there she stopped and turned to the younger unicorn.

“W-what are you doing? You... you need to run. I-I'll be fine. J-just run,” the mare gasped out as her knees wobbled. The princess could tell the limping pony wouldn't be able to go any further on her wounded and tired legs.

“Don't worry. Just be calm, I have this,” Rarity said as she turned towards the opposite shore, if it could be called that. It didn't take long before the stallions jumped out from the grass, stopping quickly as they saw their prey standing just a little away.

“You girls gone and given up? Don't think this means we'll be gentle after that little escape attempt,” the nearest stallion said as he stepped forward, raising his spear. “But maybe if you get down on the ground and ask real nice, I'll just tan your hide a little bit,” the stallion said as he trotted a little closer, licking his lips.

“Stop!” the princess growled. “I'm done running from you. If you do not abandon your pursuit, I will be forced to kill you. All of you. Leave!” her voice boomed.

The stallion burst into laughter as he jumped over the stream. He never made it across as spikes of ice erupted under him. Thick skewers stabbed out all around him as the other stallions stopped their laughter and stared. The leaping stallion let out a whimper, his body frozen in mid motion as jagged shards of ice barely missed impaling him, instead the criss-crossed spikes supporting his weight.

“Right, leaving. W-we'll get right on that,” the stallion squeaked, though he was too frightened to move. He let out a shriek as the spikes of ice shoved up and threw him back towards his fellow bandits.

“Let's get her!” one of them yelled, a moment before being slapped upside the head.

“Are you insane?!” the spared pony snapped. “She's Water Nation! Let's get out of here, who knows how many others there are?” without a further word the stallion turned tail and ran, not even bothering to grab his spear. The others looked between him and her before quickly following after.

“Yeah, you better run!” Rarity called after them. The proud unicorn turned to her comrade and froze. The other unicorn was staring at her with wide eyed terror, the blue mare's body shaking uncontrollably. “Err, don't worry. I don't plan to-”

“Y-you're from the Water Nation? Why are... how did you... I... a-are you going to k-kill me?”

“No!” the unicorn said with a quick shake of her head. “I was just trying to keep us safe. I don't... I don't want to kill any pony. I'm just... listen. I'll leave. Okay?”

Colgate gulped and the two stared at each other in silence for a few moments. Finally, the blue unicorn opened her mouth. “If... does that mean you're not a member of the Water Nation any more?”

Rarity sighed and shook her head. “No. I... I am no longer a member of them. I'm a...” She took a deep breath. “I am returning to the country. I have... ponies there who need me. Ones I must save. Well, one I must. I mean you no harm though.”

The limping pony nodded. “I... I see. I hope you don't expect me to come with you.”

“No!” the fallen princess said with a quick shake of her head. “This is my journey, my problem. No ponyelses.” She got to her hooves and began walking for a few steps, stopping a moment to grab the abandoned spear in her magic. “If you wish to come with me, to the next town, I have no objections...”

Colgate slowly started walking towards the mare. “Well... I guess that won't cause any problems. If you wanted to kill me you could have done it already.” She paused for a moment as she looked the white unicorn over. “I... understand not being with them. I mean... I've met a few water benders who... left their home as well. I know you aren't all bad.”

“What?!” Rarity shrieked. “You know ponies who've abandoned the Water Nation?! But, the price for abandoning ones post is...” she quickly went silent before shaking her head.

“If it's so high, why are you returning?”

“My sister needs me,” the princess said as each step made her dig her hooves into the ground. “She... I can't abandon her. I've done it far too many times as it is...”

The two walked in silence again, the only sound the occasional crickets. After a while the blue unicorn sighed. “We should find someplace to hide. Someplace with cover that can keep us safe in case any more ponies try to attack us.”

Rarity nodded slowly. “You're right. It's been a long night as it is. Sleep would do us good.”

Twilight stared, her eyes almost as wide as saucers. A single drop of drool slowly dribbled from the corner of her mouth as she stared at... feast was too small a word. The table she and her friends were now sitting at was covered in so many delicious apple based treats that they had to have the table candles sitting on nearby counters. The scent of delicious, well cooked treats flooded their nostrils as the assorted ponies stared in shock. “A-are... how many ponies are you expecting?” the avatar finally managed to ask as she wiped some drool from her mouth.

“We ain't expectin' nopony,” Applejack said with a smile. “But don't let anypony eva say the Apple family don't know how tah treat guests right proper. 'Specially one so well known as yah, miss avatar ness.”

“Please, just Twilight. Thank you very much for your generosity,” the alicorn said as she slowly pulled over an apple tart and bit into it. Her entire body shook for a moment as the deliciously warm treat embraced her senses, the flaky crust mixing perfectly with the delicious and smooth apple filling. As if on cue, the others began to dig in and soon the room was filled with the sound of chewing mouths and the occasional happy groan of well fed ponies.

“I think this may be better grub than the wonderbolts get,” Rainbow said as she wiped some apple sauce from her mouth. “You cooked all this yourself?”

“Not at all,” the earth pony said as she motioned to Big Mac. “Mah big brother here is one ah the finest cooks this side ah Fillydelphia.” The large stallion blushed and looked down.

“So, miss Apple. About the amulet...” Twilight started, but quickly went quiet as the mare raised a hoof.

“Now now, Twilight,” Applejack said with a shake of her head. “That's business. Yah all had a long trip and ah won't hear ah thing until yah gone and had a right proper breakfast. We can all talk after.”

The alicorn sighed a moment before shrugging and digging into the grub. After a very long, but delightful, breakfast the four ponies and baby dragon splayed out over the living room floor, clutching their stomachs. “I never wanna see another apple as long as I live,” Rainbow groaned.

The young farming mare merely chuckled as she trotted into the room after them, the sound of dishes being washed coming from the other room. “Well, now that yah all had a nice meal, how about we get down tah business. Yah all said yah needed this amulet thing tah save the kingdoms, right?”

Twilight nodded as she slowly sat up... only to collapse back on her back a moment later. “Uh huh. I'd compete myself, but I don't know how to earth bend yet and, even if I could, with a broken hoof I couldn't do much.”

“Well, don't yah worry one bit,” Applejack grinned as a smile spread against her lips. “Ah can personally guarantee that you'll get this amulet when me and mah brother win this here tournament.”

“Really?!” the avatar shrieked as she sat up again. “Oh, thank you thank you thank you th-”

“Now, hold up. Ah never said ah'd do it for free. Yah see, ah need something from yah first. It's pretty easy though, yah'll barely even notice.” The farmer smiled widely.

“What is it?” Twilight asked with a feeling of dread.

“Ah want yah tah endorse our apples,” Applejack said with a nod of her head. “Yah gone now and tasted our products, bein' able tah use the avatar's name and seal of approval would sky rocket our sales. Might even be able tah buy Granny Smith her new hip.”

“I... what? You want me to what?” the avatar stared at the earth pony with a cocked eye. “That's all? You just want me to endorse your apples? Don't need me to fight off a hydra? Seek out a mythical golden apple? Defeat a giant scorpio minor? Just endorse some apples?”

“Eeyup,” the earth pony said as she trotted over, spit in her hoof and held it out. “It's a deal then. Ah give mah word ah'll get yah this fancy amulet ah yours. Don't worry your lil head, me and mah bro have been five times champions. Ain't no pony been able tah stand against the two ah us.”

“Two? Wait, so you both compete?” Twilight asked as she glanced at the hoof, cringing as she held out her broken one. Fortunately, the earth pony shook it gently.

“Eeyup,” the stallion said as he walked into the room.

“Mmmm hmm. Doubles tournament,” Applejack said with a chuckle. “Didn't yah read the poster?”

“Well, I did, but not that closely,” the avatar muttered. “Well, we have a deal. So how does this work?”

“Well, yah'll just need tah let us get some paintin's done. Don't worry about it, it can all wait until after tadays matchs.”

“Todays? Wait, how many days does this tournament last?” Twilight squeaked as she looked around. “We need to get to Fillydelphia, we can't-”

“Now, don't yah worry your lil head,” Applejack said with a chuckle. “No need tah act more anxious than a hen in a fox cave. Today an' tomorrow are the tournament days. Always have a nice day a rest before the grand finale. Makes sure it's a nice, fair fight. We kin get some stuff settled after me an' Big Mac get done for the day. How about yah all go out an' git in your wagon.”

Twilight nodded slowly as they slowly headed outside, excitement billowing within her. Everything was going right for once, she could hardly believe it.

“Go 'way...” Rarity groaned as she felt something poking her side. It poked again and she tried rolling away. “Aunty, leave me al-” she let out a shriek as her eyes opened and she jumped to her hooves, looking around wildly as she prepared for a fight. The color, what little there was, quickly drained from her face.

Three stallions stood over the two. Earth ponies, each wearing the thick metals of the Earth Kingdom's soldiers. She had seen them before, just never so close. She gulped and looked around, but there was no sufficient source of water for her to adequately fight one of them, let alone three. Against benders, her subpar skill with the spear would be useless as well. Colgate was slowly waking up, though she reacted in a similar manner, jumping to her hooves quickly.

The nearest pony stamped his hoof once. Rocks shot out of the ground, surrounding the two unicorns and pinning them up. He glared at the princess as she nervously gulped. “C-can I-I help you?” she squeaked, her mouth suddenly very dry.

“Perhaps,” the nearest stallion said as he stepped closer to look her in the eye. “On our patrol we came across a band of robbers, frightened like school foals. Normally we'd have just let it slide and imprison them, except what they mentioned. A pair of water benders, traveling through our lands. Amazingly enough, you two match their descriptions perfectly.”

Rarity tried to speak, but couldn't croak out the words with her tongue suddenly dry as sand. After a moment she heard a soft voice behind her. “We are not water benders,” Colgate muttered.

“Of course you're not. But if you don't mind, we'll need proof,” the stallion growled as he turned his focus to the blue mare.

“Of course. I...” the mare paused for a moment before sighing. “My name is Colgate, and this is my guide, Diamondeyes. I am a fire bender.”

The three earth ponies stopped then, before quickly backing away from the two and whispering amongst themselves. After a few moments, the stallion raised his head again. “Ah. Well, if you could prove this, we would of course let you go. But we'll need a demonstration.”

“If you could release me, please? Bending is difficult without the proper movements...” the unicorn asked gently.

“I don't know...” the stallion muttered.

“Please. There are three of you and only one of me. I would have no chance of escape if running was my goal.”

“Very well,” the stallion's hoof hit the ground and Rarity could hear the ground retreating behind her. After a few moments a burst of flame shot over the white unicorn's head, making the earth ponies stare with wide eyed amazement. A second later the rocks holding the princess in place retreated into the ground, freeing her. “My apologies,” the stallion said with a polite bow. “We are at war, however, and must always keep an eye out for spies from the Water Nation.”

“It's quite alright,” Colgate said as she moved to the young water bender's side. “However, those bandits you mentioned, I believe I know them. They attacked and captured the two of us last night. They didn't know about my fire bending, so we managed to escape. Please don't let such awful creatures escape. Who knows what horrible things they would have done to us had we not been able to flee?”

The stallion nodded. “Of course. Those ponies have already been imprisoned, they'll be punished for sending us off on this wild goose chase. Unfortunately, the roads these days can be quite treacherous. Do you require an escort?”

“No, we'll manage on our own,” Colgate said with a shy smile. “You've already wasted more than enough time on the two of us, please continue on with your duties. Thank you very much for continuing to keep these roads safe.”

“Of course,” the stallion said as her turned and started trotting off. The other two glanced at him, and then the mares for a few moments, before following suit.

Once they were out of sight the blue unicorn let out a sigh of relief. “Well, at least that went well.”

Rarity just sat there, eyes wide as her brain struggled to focus on all that just happened. Finally, she managed to open her mouth and speak. “Grkkgrkk.” Unfortunately, her mouth was still quite dry. She closed her eyes, slowly trying to swallow before speaking. “Y-you're... a f-fire bender?” she finally croaked out.

“Indeed.”

“B-but you said you were banished from an earth pony city! How...?”

“I was banished from the fire benders for... it's not important. I don't wish to speak of it,” Colgate mumbled as she poked the ground.

“You saved me... why?” Rarity squeaked out, moisture slowly returning to her mouth.

“You saved me, as well. It was the least I could do. Come, we still need to find the road if we are to continue,” she held out her hoof to help the young princess up. “Do... do you hate me now, for what I am?”

The young white unicorn glanced up at the other mare before slowly shaking her head. “No. It doesn't matter what kind of bending you do. Come on, let's find the road.” She took the hoof and let the mare pull her up, before slowly trotting towards the rising sun, the spear slung across her back.

Twilight stared, her mouth hanging open. Had it not been for the meal she had earlier, this would have been the most impressive sight she'd seen all day.

A large field had been completely cleared, just outside the town. A large square of rock had been raised a few feet off the ground, made of solid stone. Stands, made of the same earthly substance, towered into the sky with hundreds of seats. Almost every single one of them was filled with yelling, cheering ponies.

“How did this town hold so many?” the avatar finally managed to ask.

“Ponies come from near an' far tah see this here competition,” Applejack said with a snicker. “Most ah them likely arrived this mornin'. Town was likely chock full ah them last night too. Yah all lucky yah didn't try tah stay at the inn. Tanight it'll be stocked more full than uncle Appletaffy's prize winnin' hog stuffed inside aunt Applesnap's girdle.”

“This arena wasn't here yesterday,” Spike said as the cart came to a stop.

“Well, duh. Earth bendin',” Rainbow said with a snicker as she moved to help Twilight down. “How many competitors are there?”

“Usually a few dozen or so. Single elimination, ring out or submission,” the orange earth pony called back as she started trotting towards the ring with her brother. “Don't yah worry your little heads. Once yah see me an' Big Macintosh in action, yah won't worry one bean about us takin' home your fancy lil amulet.”

Twilight nodded as she limped after the two, supported by her friends. The stands were so packed they were forced to sit on the ground with a number of other ponies and watch. Four earth benders were on stage, fighting each other as rocks and dirt flew through the air. After a few moments one and then the other flew out of the arena. Fluttershy squeaked occasionally as they watched, quickly covering her eyes with one hoof, and Angel's with the other. Spike and Rainbow, on the other hoof, quickly began cheering on the most brutal of fighters.

After a few fights Applejack and Big Mac took the stage as the crowd erupted into cheers. “Ladies and gentlecolts, you know them, you love them!” the announcer yelled. “The Apples! Five time champions and two of the best earth benders this side of Fillydelphia! Their challengers, the mole brothers! Let's get ready to Ruuuuuummmmmmble!”

Two brown earth ponies stood on the opposite side of the arena from the two siblings. Instantly they dove into the ground, quickly disappearing into it as if the solid stone was nothing more than water. The rock was dug up slightly as the two quickly tunneled towards the Apples, as the two farmers just stood and waited.

Suddenly the mole brothers shot out from either side, each sending a boulder at the Apples, intending to squash them. Applejack stomped both her hooves down as two small walls of rocks sprouted up, blocking the giant stones. The barriers cracked under the assault, but didn't buckle as the two masses turned to pebbles. Big Mac quickly jumped into the air and, as he landed, the ground rippled outward from them as the arena shook like a lake after a cannon ball. The two digging ponies let out a shriek as they were tossed out from the stonework and slammed into the ground, a good ten yards from the stage.

The cheers were deafening as the ponies stood up and stomped their hooves in appreciation of the fight. “Did you see that?! Did you see that?!” Rainbow yelled as she pointed. “That was awesome, he just BAMMED and those two went flying!”

Twilight nodded as she watched. “Impressive, I suppose. I guess they are pretty... pretty... no. That's impossible. How can they... how...”

“For our next match!” the announcer yelled. “We have the pebble sisters!” The crowd quickly cheered as two earth pony mares jumped on the stage. “Versus the Flim Flam brothers!” Two all too familiar yellow earth ponies moved opposite the mares as the crowd cheered.

Rainbow didn't wait, she tore off through the air, landing behind the two earth benders. “You two! What are you two doing here?!”

“We're in the middle of a competition, do you mind?” Flim asked with a hmph.

“Yes I do mind, you murderous monsters! You think I'm going to just stand here and wait for you to fight, after what you two did? We have a whole crowd here, waiting, ow!” the pegasus stopped as she looked back. A small cup had smacked her in the back, thrown from the crowd. The ponies were now booing and yelling as they threw whatever they had on hoof at the mare.

“Get off the stage! Start the fight!” the ponies yelled.

“Hey! These two are criminals, they can't-” Rainbow yelled back at the crowd. The moment she was distracted, Flim and Flam grinned at each other and tapped their hooves. A pillar of rock shot out, sending the pegasus flying off the stage and into the ground. She got to her hooves, coughing up dirt. She turned to glare at the two. “You two better give up before we... huh?” The mare blinked in confusion as she stared into the eyes of the referee, a large orange stallion.

“Miss, if you don't stop interfering with the matches, you're going to have to leave,” the earth pony said with a glare.

“But they're criminals, they attacked a town and pretended to be members of the Water Nation! Well, not them, but they had a bunch of other ponies who... what?”

The stallion just stared at her with a cocked eye. “Very well then. Where is your proof?”

“My... my proof?” Rainbow squeaked. “I... err, we have the words of the ponies who lived there. But none of them are here... we have the word of the avatar!”

“... So you have no proof,” the stallion said as he shook his head. “Go sit back down with your friends, or leave.”

“But-”

“I told you what you can do! Until you have proof of your baseless accusations, stop interfering with our tournament!” the stallion snapped. Rainbow growled before giving one last glare at the Flim Flam brothers, who just smirked back at her. She slowly walked off, back to her friends.

“I can't believe this,” the pegasus grumbled. “Our word should be enough. Those two deserve to rot in a cell!”

Twilight nodded. “They do, and they will. But we can't do anything right now,” the alicorn said with a glare towards the earth benders. “The moment those two are knocked out of the tournament, we'll get them. But, as long as they're in it we'll just get in trouble for interfering.”

“Fine,” Rainbow growled as she ground her hooves into the ground. “But the moment they're out, we're getting them.”

“Agreed,” Twilight said with a sigh as she watched the match, hoping the two would be knocked out. Unfortunately, the match was soon over with the brothers victorious. The group watched with trepidation, all enjoyment gone, as the tournament went round by round. The Apples easily crushed their opposition, Applejack's defensive capabilities in perfect sync with Big Mac's powerful attacks.

Flim and Flam proved to be just as competent, their movements in unison as they quickly blew through the rounds. Rainbow growled angrily as her mind flashed back to her own defeat at their hooves, her eyes getting more narrowed with each victory. Eventually only the Apples and the brother remained, and she let out an annoyed cry. “We should go get them now!” the pegasus snapped. “We can't wait for the match tomorrow!”

“We don't have much choice,” Twilight said with a sigh. “We'll just have to be patient.”

Applejack and Bic Mac slowly trotted towards the group, a smile on her face and sweat glistening off her body. “Woo-wee,” the earth pony mare said with a shake of her mane. “That was a nice lil work out. So, what was it that had your hot-headed flyin' friend all up an' at'em?”

The avatar raised a hoof before the pegasus could start. “Those two, the other finalists? They're criminals. They used a number of bandits, disguised as the Water Nation's soldiers, to rob and trick a town south of here. Plenty of ponies died because of those murderers. We managed to stop them, but they escaped. We never thought we'd find them here.”

The yellow mare hummed as she scratched her chin. “But yah all don't have any proof?”

“None,” the alicorn mumbled with a sigh. “I don't even know what we could use as proof.”

“Well, that's a bit of a conundrum,” Applejack grumbled as she looked to her big brother. “We know a few ponies who kin keep an eye on em. Make sure they don't try an' run outta town. Unfortunately, ain't much yah can do while the tournaments goin' on. Ponies come from near an' far tah see all this, an' no ponies gonna take kindly tah yah interferin' without proof.”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac said with a nod of his head.

“We can't just let them escape though!” Fluttershy finally spoke up, before quickly covering her mouth. “S-sorry...”

“Ah ain't sayin' yah hafta. Me an' Bic Mac will trounce the two ah them tomorrow. Once that's all done, ponies will be a lot more inclined tah listen tah your accusations.”

Twilight nodded and sighed. “Well... I guess that works. It's what we figured we'd have to do. You sure you can keep them from trying to escape the town tonight?”

“Yup,” the earth pony said with a nod of her head. “We know jus' about everypony in town. Big Mac, think yah can get a watch going?”

“Eeyup,” the stallion said as he turned and began to trot off.

“Now don't yah worry one bit. Those two will answer for everything they gone and done. But for now, how about ah go ahead and take yah back to the farm? We can start workin' on your endorsements. Ah know jus' the pony tah draw up some signs.”

Twilight sighed again. “I guess. Not like there's anything else we can do right now.” With some help of her friends, the alicorn was back in the cart and they began the slow trip back to the farm, now pulled by the younger Apple.

The sun slowly set across the sky, half its glow hidden behind the mountains to the west. Rarity sighed as she kept her gaze to the southern sky. Dark clouds had formed, warning of a powerful storm in the direction. “How much longer until we reach the town?” the princess asked.

“I don't know,” Colgate said with a shrug. “The sign was quite old and faded. I don't even know if it still exists, plenty of towns... probably disappeared during the hundred years of night.”

The white unicorn sighed as she lowered her gaze slightly, eying the wall of trees that were slowly getting closer. “I thought it would... it would... by the stars.” Her mouth fell open as they came closer and she made out a black mass in the distance. Thin streams of smoke rose from it. “Is that... is that the town?”

The blue unicorn gulped as she stared as well. “I... I don't... know. It's small though. I don't think it... oh...” The two exchanged looks before galloping off towards the trees.

The two soon arrived at the source of the smoke. The once proud town of Drowsy Void was nothing more than piles of ash and crumbled buildings. Not a soul remained, the only signs of ponies being here were the large number of hoof prints. Rarity gulped as she slowly walked through, knocking aside piles of ash. “How did this happen?”

“The Water Nation,” Colgate mumbled.

“Impossible! Why would they burn this place down?” the princess started trotting faster. “There must have been an accident. A fire, no pony was able to put it out. It probably happened because the sun dried everything out,” she said quickly as she looked through the wreckage for any sign of ponies. “Hello! Is any pony here? HELLO!” she yelled.

“DIAMONDEYE!” the blue unicorn screamed. “Come here, quick!”

Rarity instantly took off, sending ash flying as she galloped towards her traveling companion. It wasn't long before she found the other unicorn standing by the tree line. “What's wrong?”

The fire bender merely pointed up, her eyes wide with horror. Dangling from the tree, a rope tightly around his neck and dark welts across his body, was a black stallion. His hooves were tied in front of him and his body was weighted down with the Water Nation's armor.

Rarity stared for a few moments before her horn glowed. Her spear shot up and sliced through the rope, dropping the pony to the ground in a painful heap. To her slight delight, she heard the pony make a grunt of pain. To her horror, she saw the stallion's forehead, where a bleeding hole signified the removal of his horn.

“Is he... is he dead?” Colgate asked as she took a step back.

“No, not yet,” the princess said as she moved forward, knocking his helmet off as she looked over his beaten face. “But he will be if we don't do something. Can you go try to find some... no, it'll be faster if I find them myself. You need to look over him, get this armor off and try to stem any bleeding,” she said as she galloped off, into the woods.

“Wait!” the fire bender called, but it was too late. She nervously gulped and moved to the unconscious stallion as she slowly began removing his armor. Blood coated much of the internal layers, matting into his purple mane and making the pieces difficult to remove, but she eventually got them off and laid the pony out. A large hole in his chest was bleeding severely as she nervously watched. After a few seconds she held up her hoof. “I'm... I'm sorry. This is for your own good...” Flame formed on the edge of the hoof as she slowly placed it towards the wound.

Rarity froze as the scream pierced the night, but she quickly shook her head and got back to searching. The light was quickly disappearing and she needed to find whatever she could use, fast. Her mind struggled to focus on the many lessons her aunt had given her on medical herbs, but one lesson instead flooded into her mind, over and over. The punishment for treason in the Water Nation. The very same punishment that stallion had undergone. She struggled to shake the thoughts from her mind as she imagined Sweetie Belle being here. Standing in this town as it burned to the ground. Worse of all... ordering such a punishment on another pony. Gouging out the horn of a unicorn. Hanging them from the...

She shook her head again. “Right. Berries. Nuts. Anything foragable. Medical herbs. Need to stop the infection. Focus Rarity, focus.”

Big Mac stifled a loud yawn as he slowly trotted down the long, empty road to the farm. His eyes glazed over slightly as he walked, his steps occasionally wobbling from side to side. He had stayed out a bit too long with some family friends and gotten suckered into a small apple cider drinking contest. Of course he'd won, but his head still felt off kilter. He'd almost stayed in town, but he refused to leave his sister home alone, even if the avatar and her friends were there.

He stopped as his ears perked up. He tapped his hoof on the ground before jumping backwards. A spike of earth stabbed up in front of him, narrowly missing. The moment his hooves touched ground, the dirt shot up, flinging him into the air. His hooves flailed wildly as he tried to gain his bearings. He fell towards the ground, hooves out, as it suddenly opened into a pit under him. He landed hard, his hooves buckling under him as he slammed into the ground.

The earth pony shook his head, trying to clear it as the pit suddenly collapsed in on him. Rock and dirt battered him as he lifted his hooves up. A moment later he shot out of the ground, landing a few yards away as he struggled to get to his hooves, blood sliding down his face and blinding his left eye. “Who... who's there? Show yourself!” the large pony said as his head swiveled left and right.

He dove down as a pillar of rock shot over his head. He turned to the right and quickly galloped forward, his jaw set. He dove to the right as a spike of earth shot out from his left, but was suddenly sent flying back as a wave of mud formed under him and sent him hurtling into the air. He flew for a moment before landing in one of the trees, quickly tumbling down before crashing into the ground, head first.

He slowly got to his hooves, only to get slammed as a pillar of rock shot out from under him, hitting him under the chin as his head whipped up. The large pony wobbled a few moments, before dropping on his side, unconscious.

Two earth ponies slowly walked out from behind the nearby trees. “Whew,” Flim muttered. “Didn't think he'd be that tough after the drugs we gave him.”

“Told yah it'd work,” Flam said as he twirled his mustache. “Now we just need to ensure he can't compete tomorrow and the grand prize is as good as ours.”

”What about his sister?” the bare faced pony asked.

“She's not a worry,” the mustached pony said. “He was doing all the fighting, she just played defense. We'll trounce her. Time to take her brother out of the competition.” The two shared a look before nodding as they advanced on the helpless red pony.

Chapter 12: Wronged Xenos

The moon stood high in the sky as Rarity slowly ground a few green herbs into a thick paste between her hooves, before slowly applying them to the tortured unicorn's wounds. Colgate watched nervously and paced left and right. “We shouldn't be here,” the fire bender finally said. “What if they come back?”

“You'll be fine,” the young princess mumbled. “If the Water Nation returns, they'll be too focused on me to worry about you. Besides, we can't move this stallion as it is, he's too hurt.” She slowly applied a thick layer of the mush on the gaping burn wound on his chest.

“What does that mean?” the blue mare asked, though sudden movement from the hornless unicorn made her freeze.

“A-avatar?” the stallion croaked out as he stared up at Rarity, his eyes squinting.

“No,” she whispered gently. “My name is Diamondeye. What's yours?”

The stallion swallowed before groaning. “S-shadowh... hoof...” he finally croaked out in a raspy voice. “The... the avatar. She... a-are you f-from the W-water Nation?”

“No, we're not. What about the avatar?” the princess asked as she gently applied some of the paste to the bleeding hole in his head. She frowned as her hoof came back, blood coating it.

“S-she... needs to know. F-fire benders,” the stallion coughed for a moment, each word struggling to get out through his damaged throat. “T-they know. W-water Nation... t-they said they found them,” he finally managed to get out, the burst of words making him burst into a coughing fit as blood splattered onto the mare.

“The Water Nation knows?!” Colgate shrieked as she quickly limped towards him. “Tell me! How? Who said? What did they say? Tell me!”

“Colgate!” Rarity hissed. “He's wounded. He needs...” She looked down at him again, before chewing on her lip. She finally let out a gentle sigh. “What did you hear?”

“F-forest,” Shadowhoof croaked out again. “Said... g-going... t-to the forever f-forest...”

“Everfree?” Colgate asked as she nervously chewed on her hooves.

“Y-yes...” the stallion groaned. “W-warn... avatar. Needs... needs to know.”

“We will,” Rarity said firmly as she gently brushed his mane. “You need to rest.”

“A-am... am I going to d-die?” the stallion asked softly, as a few tears formed in his eyes.

The princess froze, dropping a few herbs. She nervously chewed on her lower lip as her gaze shifted away. “N-no. You'll be... you'll be fine. Just rest.”

He slowly closed his eyes, his breathing shallow. After a few moments Colgate smiled. “You saved him?”

“No,” Rarity mumbled as she gently stroked the stallion's mane.

“But you said-”

“I'm not a healer,” she interrupted curtly. “There... there is nothing more I can do for him. These will dull his pain, but I can't save his life. The wounds are too severe. He's lost too much blood and the shock of having his horn removed is just...” Tears formed in the young mare's eyes as her mind drifted back to another, now dead, Water Nation soldier. “It's too much. I'll try to make his passing as painless for him as I can, but I can't do enough. Maybe if my aunt were here...”

“Why tell him that? If he's going to die he deserves-”

“He deserves to not have his last moments trembling in pain and fear at the thought of his death. No pony does. If he comes to, don't say a word. Just... let him try to be at peace for his last few moments.”

“Fine,” the young fire bender growled as she sat down. She then gulped. “Do... you think he was telling the truth? That they know where the fire benders are?”

The young princess shrugged. “I... I suppose it is possible. I don't think he'd have any reason to lie at this point. Forever forest?”

“Everfree,” Colgate corrected. She gulped before chewing her lips. “You... you're from the Water Nation, right? What would happen if they had this information?”

“It depends,” Rarity mumbled. “I suppose the most likely course of action would be to return home, as quickly as possible. Once there, they'd gather a large strike force before moving in to eliminate the rest of the fire benders. They might try to either capture, or eliminate the benders. Most of the Fire Tribe's lands belong to the Water Nation now, so they might just head straight there to gather a sizable force. How close would that forest be to there?”

“On the border,” Colgate whispered. “I need to return and warn them. Please, I know you intend to-”

“No,” the white unicorn said as she ground up some more paste, applying it to the stallion's chest. “I... cannot warn the avatar. But, there is somepony else I can tell. Somepony who might be able to stop this attack.”

“Who? How?”

“My aunt. She... if anypony could stop it, she could,” Rarity mumbled as she wiped the blood off her hooves.

“How can your aunt stop them?”

“She just... she can do a lot of things. Listen, just go. You know where they lived, where they are, correct? Warn them. Get them to retreat. I'll... I'll do what I can.”

Colgate nodded, turning away for a moment before glancing down at the dying stallion. “What about him? Should we just leave him here?”

“No,” Rarity whispered. “I won't... I won't leave him to die alone. Not like this. I'll leave once he has... once he has passed on.”

The fire bender nodded as she turned to leave. “Diamondeye, I just want you to know. For a water bender, you're okay,” with those words, the unicorn galloped, as best she could, away.

Applejack trotted quickly down the dirt roads of her home. Twilight and Rainbow following behind her, the former leaning on the latter. She stopped for a moment as she yelled into the field. “Big Mac? Yah here? Come on, yah big lumix!”

“He's probably still in town,” Rainbow grumbled. “You're worrying about nothing. We'll get there and you'll feel silly, running around and yelling like this.”

“Mah brother wouldn't just run off an' spend the whole night gallivantin' around like some party stallion,” the earth bender said firmly as she trotted some more before calling her brother's name. With another lack of response she continued walking again. “He's a responsible stallion, knows tah tell me if he goes and plans to hang out all night. He'd never be out this late if he wasn't in some kinda trouble.”

Twilight sighed, her horn alight to help guide their way. The glow jumped up and down with each limp. “I understand why you're so worried, but I don't think there's any way to keep yelling like that. We'll be to town soon and w-”

“Quiet!” Applejack said as she froze in her steps. She stomped on the ground once, then twice more in rapid succession. “Big Mac!” she yelled before galloping off. Her two companions shared confused looks before chasing after her, into the forest of apple trees.

They soon found the stallion, laying against a tree. Two of his legs were bent the wrong way and his face was so black and blue that he was hardly recognizable. Twilight quickly turned to Rainbow. “Go get Fluttershy! We need her healing, go!”

The pegasus nodded, before taking off into the air. The alicorn then slowly limped forward, casting her light over the scene. “Is he okay?” she asked gently as she leaned against a tree. “I mean, is he breathing?”

“Yes,” Applejack said as she moved up close to her brother, gently running a hoof through his mane. “Oh big brother, who did this to you? I swear, if ah ever find the no good dirty varmints who did this, I'll break them into puddy.” She sat down and continued to stroke his mane.

Twilight moved in closer as she looked him over. “I think I have good news. Aside from, I think a few broken bones and a lot of bruises, there doesn't seem to be much damage. I think Fluttershy can tend most of theses. But who would... would...” The alicorn's eyes narrowed. “Those dirty rotten... the Flim Flam brothers!”

The earth pony frowned as she glanced down at her brother. “Yah... really think they did this to Big Macintosh? Why would they?”

“Easy,” the avatar said as she ground her hoof into the ground. “Those evil, lowdown scam artists plan to win by any means. Without your brother, you'll have to give up and-”

“Ah ain't givin' up. Ah still plan tah go an' win this here tournament,” the earth bender snapped as she stroked her hurt brother's mane.

“What?” Twilight asked softly, before shaking her head. “No! You can't. If you fight them two on one, you'll get crushed. Listen, we need the amulet, but there has to be another way. We can-”

“Ah gave mah word,” Applejack snapped. “Ah ain't gonna let a buncha hustlers come an' make a liar outa me. Sides, yah already gone and done most ah your side ah the deal. Those pictures'll be done in a few days. An' ah fully intend for yah tah have your fancy lil trinket when they are.”

“But, but, you'll get hurt! Listen, I know those two are evil, but they're also powerful! Fighting them two on one is-”

“What ah'm gonna do,” the earth pony interrupted as she got to her hooves and walked over to the alicorn, glaring into her eyes. “You're all welcome tah try an' stop me, but ah'd advise against it. Yah jus' focus on gettin' your leg all healed up. Leave the beatin' ah these scoundrels tah me.”

Twilight gulped nervously, before lowering her gaze. “F-fine. If... if you're really so confident. We won't... I won't interfere. Just, just be careful, okay? I don't want any pony getting hurt for my sake.”

Applejack hmphed as she looked to her brother and grit her teeth. “Don't yah worry about me. Worry about them. No pony, but no pony, messes with one ah mah siblings and gets away with it.” She growled and gave a nearby tree a solid buck, leaving a hoof sized dent in it. “No pony.”

As the sun slowly rose again, Rarity trotted back to the wounded stallion. She dropped a few objects she'd managed to scavenge up. Small bags had formed under her eyes and she struggled to stifle a yawn as she laid down besides the stallion. His breathing was ragged as his abused body struggled to maintain itself. She glanced towards the sky before letting out a sigh. “It won't be long now...”

The wounded pony let out a gurgling groan as his eyes slowly opened. “W-who? W-what?” his craggy voice asked as he tried to move.

“Shhhh, shhhh,” Rarity said quickly as she sat up and moved beside him. “It's okay. I'm here, you're not alone,” she whispered as she gently pulled out a cup she'd found, now filled with water she'd managed to gather. She gently moved it towards his lips. “Here, drink this. It'll help to sooth your throat,” she whispered.

He slowly opened his mouth, taking the drink and swallowing it quickly. His eyes slowly closed again as he shivered. “It's... s-so cold,” he whispered.

“It's dawn. It'll warm up soon, just relax...” she whispered back, gently combing his mane with her hoof.

“W-who... are you? Why...”

“Diamondeye, remember?” she said with a smile. “Don't worry. You'll be better soon. You just need to rest and... and save your strength...” she lied as she struggled to keep tears from her eyes.

“I... t-thank you...” he whispered, before breaking into a fit of coughing. Blood trailed down the side of his mouth. “It's... I... I'm not going to d-die... a-am I?”

“No. Of course not,” the princess said with a smile. “Don't worry. I won't leave your side, you're not alone.”

A small grin formed on his lips as his ragged breaths stopped for a second. “I'm... I'm s-sorry...” he whispered as tears formed in his eyes.

“Whatever for?”

“I didn't... I-I'm so s-scarred...” he whispered. “I... I don't want to die...”

“It's okay,” Rarity said with a smile. “You won't die. You'll be fine. I... I promise. The pain will fade. Just be calm...”

“Tha...” he whispered softly as his breathing stopped once again, but this time it didn't resume.

“Shadow?” the white unicorn asked as she leaned in closer. “Dear? Darling?” she watched and waited for a few moments, her eyes never leaving his unmoving chest. She slowly turned away as tears started to form in her eyes. “I'm sorry...” she whispered as she shook her head and pulled away. “May... may your soul find rest in the next realm. Please, please know that... that if my sister did this...” She cringed as she clutched her chest. “If she... if she ordered this... that is not the pony she is. Was. Will be. She was kind. Is kind. Is caring. She would... she would have never done anything like this.”

She gathered her things, wrapping them in a bundle and tying it to the spear. With a single glance back to the deceased pony, she turned and began the slow walk back north. “And I won't allow her to perform more acts like this. I will save her. On that, I swear.”

“Ah'll be fine,” Big Mac groaned as he shook his head. His entire body was covered in bandages as Fluttershy quickly moved around, gently applying a glowing hoof to the wounded areas. He was laying on a large, red bed in the largest room of the Apple family home.

“Ah'm sure yah will,” Applejack snapped as she glared at him. “But yah ain't movin' until your legs are all better an' the swellin's gone down. If yah go an try, I'll go get Granny Smith and let her take care ah ya.”

The stallion cringed before lowering his head into his pillow and giving a little snort. “Nnnope...”

“That's what I thought,” the orange earth pony said as she turned to trot towards the door. She gave another glance back to her brother before stepping out of the room and looking down the hall towards two doors. She shook her head before turning her back to them and trotting down the stairs. “Well, yah all were right,” she said as she looked around at the remainder of her guests. “Your lil yellow friend might be a bit meek, but she's a mighty fine healer. Mah big bro already has that stubborn look in his eyes.”

“Are you sure about this?” Twilight asked as she glanced to the stairs. “If you try taking those two on, it might be you laid up in bed next.”

“Ah'll be fine,” Applejack snapped in annoyance. “Yah all plan on whinin' the whole time like a couple a school fillies, or yah wanna come cheer me on while I trounce those two swinders?”

The avatar sighed and shook her head. “Fine... but, you don't have to. I'll endorse your apples, even if you can't win. I-”

The earth pony moved into the avatar's face, her eyes narrowed as the alicorn backed up quickly. “Ah. Gave. Mah word. I'm gonna get your fancy lil necklace and win this tournament, and no amount ah underhooved trickery or deceit is gonna stop me. Now, ah'm gonna go make some breakfast. Yah all are welcome tah join meh, but if yah plan on spendin' all your time tryin' tah talk me intah givin' up, yah all can go back tah bed. Yah understand?”

Twilight squeaked softly and nodded, cowering on the floor as the orange mare's eyes seemed to pierce through her. The farmer hmphed and trotted away, towards the kitchen.

“You know, if she fights anything like she scolds, she might just win this,” Rainbow said with a snicker.

The crowd had, somehow, managed to get even bigger as the cart pulled into the arena. Ponies were yelling and howling in excitement as they prepared for the coming match, and the floor was so filled with ponies that Applejack was forced to make a rock bridge just to get to the stage. As she took the stage, the cheers died down as the confused ponies looked around, trying to catch sight of her big brother. The Flim Flam brothers stood on the opposite end of the hall, wicked grins plastered on their face as they lounged about.

The referee galloped to Applejack. “Where's Big Mac?”

She sighed. “He won't be makin' it. He was attacked las' night and won't be able tah fight. Ah'll be doin' this on mah lonesome.”

“What? But that would be two on one, I ca-”

“Ah don't care how many of them there are,” the earth pony said with a snort. “Ah'll kick their plot from here tah Fillydelphia if they think they can break our record. Now, yah gonna start this match or not?”

“Err, of course,” the stallion said as he trotted to the center of the stage. “Now, there's been a slight change of plan!” he yelled as the crowd went silent. “Due to some... difficulties, Big Mac will be unable to compete! Representing the Apple family, will be Applejack, the younger sister of-” The referee cringed as a tomato hit him in the back.

“We came here to see Big Mac fight!” a mare yelled.

“Yeah! Bring him out! He's the best bender in the kingdom!” a stallion yelled.

The Flim Flam brothers just snickered. “Getting awfully angry, aren't they ref?” Flim asked. “You know, we're more than willing to just take the championship if little Applejack wants to back out. It wouldn't be fair beating up one one little mare, just because her brother spent all night getting drunk.”

The mare's eye twitched slightly as she ground her hoof into the ground. She took a deep breath before holding out a hoof and grinning. “Yah know what, you're right. This ain't fair!” she yelled out. “There's only two of you. I tell yah what, tah even the odds ah'll even fight yah blind folded. How's that sound?”

“W-what?” Flim asked, taken aback by the taunt. “You would get, hey! What do you think you're doing?!”

Applejack trotted to the end of the stage and pointed to a little filly near the front. “Yah mind holdin' onta this for me?” she asked as she popped her hat off. The little tiny unicorn nodded as it was dropped on her head, before running into the crowd with a high pitched squeak. She then turned to the referee. “Yah mind if ah borrow yer hoofkerchief?”

The referee gulped and hoofed it over. After a moment she had it tied around her head, blinded to the world. “Now, we gonna get this done? Ah still got a lotta chores to get done so ah'd rather not spend more'n a few minutes on yah two.”

The crowd's jeers stopped as they watched and laughed at the mare's insults. Within a few moments a cheer filled the air as the ponies called her name. “Applejack! Applejack! Applejack!”

Flam frowned as he rubbed his mustache. “You may have gotten the crowd on your side, farmer. But once we trounce you, you'll regret trying to make a mockery of us. Let's start this!”

“Begin!” the referee yelled. The brothers quickly shoved their front hooves out, as two spikes shot out from either side of Applejack. She slid her back hoof back as the ground under her shifted back a few feet, letting the spikes impale in front of her.

“Yah all sure about this? Ah mean, if yah can't even hit a blind pony...” the mare taunted.

“HIYA!” Flim yelled as he stomped both front hooves down. A square wall shot up from the stage and fell forward, attempting to flatten the mare. She merely thrust a hoof forward as the two spikes the brothers created turned quickly and impaled the wall, crumbling it.

Flam lifted his hooves up, sweat covering his body as a large chunk of the stage, the size of ten ponies, was held over his head. He threw it forward at the mare.

“APPLEJACK!” Twilight screamed as she started to charge forward, but crumbled as pain shot through her broken hoof.

“Whoa,” Rainbow gasped as she stared. As the avatar looked up, her eyes went wide. The stage was covered with small bits of rubble, the earth pony having not moved a step.

“That all yah got? Mah big brother could bend larger rocks when he was a colt. Yah all plannin' tah actually try?” the mare asked as the crowd began cheering even louder.

The two stallions growled as they galloped towards her! She hmphed and thrust her back hooves against the ground. The two stallions let out a yelp as the ground shifted under them and they tumbled forward, hooves splayed out. Applejack didn't hesitate as she stomped on the ground once and the two were shot into the air. As they came down, a pillar of dirt shot up and slammed into them, sending them back into the air with pained grunts, only to be shot back up a moment later by a slightly shorter pillar. This continued three times before the two were finally shot off the stage by the final pillar.

The crowd stared for a moment, before bursting into deafening cheers. “Ring out!” the referee yelled. “Applejack is the winner! Applejack wins! She... miss Apple?” the stallion asked as the mare trotted towards the two groaning earth benders. She stood a foot from the edge of the arena and tore off the blindfold, glaring down at them.

“That... she cheated!” Flim snapped as he pointed an accusing hoof. “This was a two on two tournament, she should have been disqualified! There is no way that counted, she, ahhh!” The orange earth pony thrust her hoof back as the two brothers were suddenly drawn towards the arena. As they came closer, the edge of it collapsed on top of the two of them, molding around and pinning all but their heads to the ground. “H-hey, what are you doing?” The crowd turned deathly silent.

“Yah all thought ah don't know what yah did?” she growled as she dropped off the stage, landing on the dirt and rocks pinning the two.

“W-what are you-”

“Yah think attackin' mah brother can just go unpunished?” the mare asked as she bucked the side of the stage. A moment later a large pillar of rock shot out, landing on her back.

“I-I don't have any idea what you're talking about!”

“Ah wanna know how yah did it,” she snapped as the pillar of rock floated over her head. “Mah brother wouldn't ah lost to the two of yah. You're powerful, but yah got no control. Did yah ambush him?”

“W-we didn't do anything!” Flam yelled. “Let us go, we-”

“Don't buck with me!” Applejack yelled as the pillar flew up, over their heads. A moment later it crashed down.

“WE DID IT!” Flim screamed as the pillar stopped, mere inches from his head. “We paid a pony to drug him and then we attacked him in the night! We did it so we'd win by default! Please don't kill us!” he screamed as the entire arena fell silent. After a few moments the crowd started yelling as ponies stood up in their seats and yelled angrily at the two pinned ponies.

“That's what ah though,” Applejack said as the pillar collapsed on their heads... it crumbled instantly, the thin dirt revealing a completely hollow center, not leaving so much as a bruise. The two pinned ponies coughed and sputtered as dirt covered their faces. She turned and, with a wave of her hoof, the ground shot up to toss her back onto the stage. She glanced to the referee. “Now, ah do believe ah won this lil bout?”

“O-of course. Is... is what they said the truth? They attacked Big Mac?” the stallion asked as he looked down at the two sputtering earth ponies.

“Yup. Could yah go an' get the sheriff? If he'll have somepony come down tah get Big Mac's statement, we'll be mighty pleased. They'll probably wanna talk to the avatar as well. Apparently these ponies have been up to a lot of- EEK!” she shrieked as she was suddenly picked up. The crowd had been unable to contain themselves any longer, surging onto the stage and picking up the mare as they cheered her on. “EEEEE! Put me down, yah varmints! I'm not a ball! Eeeee!” she screamed as she flailed her hooves wildly in the air.

Rarity continued the slow trot away from the remains of Drowsy Void. Every so often she glanced back towards it, her mind thinking of the stallion who died. She imagined her sister, standing over him as she ordered his punishment to commence. As they gouged the horn from his head.

The princess shook her head. “No. No no no. It's... there has to be something else. It couldn't have been Sweetie... could it? No! It's... it's what my aunt said. That corruption. It has to be,” her eyes shifted towards the sky, the glare of the sun making her quickly turn away. “It may have my sister now, but I will save her. I will return her to that... to the angel I know her to be. Kind. Sweet. Compassionate. Adoring. Do you hear me, Discord?” she growled as she stomped a hoof. “You can't have my sister! She's mine!”

She let out another sigh as she shook her head. “Talking to yourself now, Rarity? Ponies are going to start thinking you're insane. Oh well... how did my aunt put it?” She cleared her throat. “'You're only crazy if something answers back.'” she said in a near perfect impression of Celestia. She let out a soft, sad sigh. “Oh auntie... I wish we could talk. I need your advice. I need to know what I can do... how we can stop this...” Her mind once again began to wander.

She imagined a tribe of fire benders. Dozens of them, living together. Then a swarm of the Water Nation's soldiers descending on them, ripping out their horns, chaining them together, enslaving them. Her sister standing amongst them, towering over as she laughed at their suffering.

Rarity's steps quickened. “I will save you, Sweetie Belle. No matter what the cost. Just you wait, Discord. You've made a powerful enemy now...”

The sun stood high in the sky as Twilight and her friends, along with Applejack, made their way back to the farm. Rainbow flew above them in tight circles as she worked out her wings. “I can't believe how awesome that was! Even if it was earth bending, you looked soooo cool out there. Fighting them blind folded? How did you even do that?”

“Simple, sugarcube,” the earth pony said as she trotted, the cart pulled behind her. “Ah just used mah earth bendin' tah feel where they were an' when they were gonna attack. Yah win a few ah these shin digs an' yah pick up a thing or two. Yah didn't think Big Mac had gone an' won all these tournaments on his own, now did yah?”

“Well, maybe a little bit. Your brother did look pretty awesome when he dropped half the arena on that one guy.”

“Yeah. Moves like that though are why we hafta keep fixin' the gosh darn stage. We almost got kicked out one year for all that damage.”

While the two talked, Twilight frowned as she held the alicorn amulet in her magic. She shook it a few times before placing it around her neck. “I don't... feel any stronger,” she mumbled.

“Maybe you aren't using it right?” Spike asked. “It smells delicious.”

“I figured it would give me magic just by wearing it,” the alicorn mumbled as she glanced up. She sent out a small burst of flame. “Nothing, huh?” she looked up as she frowned.

“What's wrong?” the dragon asked as he looked up as well.

“It's gotten really cloudy, I wonder if it's going to rain,” Twilight mumbled as she took the amulet off and shook it a few more times. “Come on, why don't you work? Why don't you... don't you...” her eyes twitched at she stared at the back of the amulet, and a few words carved into it. “Made... in... Fillydelphia...” she growled as she ground her teeth together. “IT'S A FAKE?!” she screamed so loud that Spike and Pinkie jumped back.

“What?” Rainbow asked as she glanced down.

“It's a fake! A knock off! IT'S JEWELRY!” the avatar screamed as she banged her head on the side of the cart. “This entire time, we wasted two days where we should have been traveling to the capitol, AND IT'S A FAKE!”

“So... it's useless?” Spike asked.

“Completely,” the avatar groaned as she rolled onto her back and looked up to the sky in defeat. “I can't believe this. After all this we just... ugh.”

“Can I have it then?” the dragon asked. She nodded and tossed it to him as he quickly began popping out the gems and scarfing them down.

“Well, ah reckon it's not that bad. Fillydelphia ain't that far away,” Applejack said with a smile.

“I still have to get there,” Twilight grumbled. “Who knows how long it'll take us to find an earth bending master who can help train me? Not only that, but I also have to try and find the other element. Every day is precious, we're on a... a...” she trailed off as her eyes turned to Applejack. The earth pony stopped as they pulled up in front of the farmhouse.

“Well, we're all here. We-”

“It's you,” the avatar interrupted as she stared at the mare. “It was under my nose the entire time. I don't know how I missed it.”

“Huh? Excuse me?” the confused earth pony asked as she cocked an eyebrow.

“You. You're an amazing earth bender, you helped us out, you're a great friend, you're honest, it has to be you. It's like Starswirl said, I will find the other elements since we share a special bond. We were destined to meet. Applejack, I know this is sudden, but... will you be my earth bending trainer and help me to defeat the Water Nation?”

“What?!” Rainbow asked as her eyes went wide.

“About time,” Pinkie said with a snicker.

“Om nom nom,” Spike grumbled as he continued chewing on his snack.

Applejack just stared at the avatar for a few moments, her mouth hanging open. She then shook her head. “Nnnnope.”

“But-”

“Ah said nope,” the earth pony snapped. “Ah have no intention of goin' against the Water Nation now, or never. Yah all find somepony else,” the cowpony stormed off, slamming the door of her home behind her.

“That was... a bit... of a harsh reaction,” Rainbow grumbled. “So I guess we're just going to get Fluttershy and go?”

“Not a chance,” Twilight said quickly as she watched the door. “I WILL get her to come with us, if it's the last thing I do. She's the one, I know it!”

“Twilight, you heard her,” Rainbow grumbled as she looked to the door. “She's scared of the Water Nation. She's already helped us put Flim and Flam in prison, we can't ask her to take on-”

“Shhhhhh,” Pinkie said with a shake of her head. “Trust Twilight, she knows what she's doing.”

“Ahhhh!” Twilight shrieked as she tried to get out of the cart, and fell out face first.

“... Mostly,” the earth pony said as she hopped out.

Author's Note

Man, I reallllly had to reach for the title on this chapter. Dang lack of X words.

Chapter 13: Youthful Zooming

Spike, Rainbow, Pinkie and Fluttershy sat at the kitchen table sipping from their glasses of apple juice. They slowly looked up as Applejack walked into the kitchen and began peeling some potatoes, her hat tipped forward to mask her face.

“Is it because you're scared?” Twilight asked as she limped in behind the earth pony.

“Ah ain't scared,” the orange mare growled as she quickly peeled a poor potato into oblivion. “Ah jus' have no intention ah fightin' the Water Nation. Yah all wanna do it? Be mah guests. But ah got a duty here. This here farm depends on me tah keep it goin' an ah ain't gonna let it down tah go galivantin' along the country side, bein' your lil trainer.”

“But we need you! I need you! The country needs you,” the alicorn yelled as she limped over to the mare.

Applejack growled and threw down the nub of a potato and peeler. “No means no! Ah ain't leavin'! Now, if yah want some help while you're here, ah'd be more than happy tah teach yah some earth bendin'. It's really not that hard. But as it is, Big Mac is laid up and ah ain't gonna leave him here alone with jus' Granny Smith.”

“Oh!” the avatar said as she nodded. “Of course. So, once Big Mac is all better you'll help us?”

“What? No! Ah never said that, ah said-”

“Fluttershy, come on! We have a stallion to make better!”

From his room, Big Mac let out a low groan as he buried his head into the pillow. However, the mare never came. Instead, Twilight found herself suddenly seated on the couch as Fluttershy glared at her.

“Okay, that's it! I understand that you want to keep moving, but you need to let your leg heal!” the pegasus snapped as she glared into the cowering avatar's eyes. “If you want us to go to the capital, fine, you can ride in the cart. But until your leg is all better, no more walking!”

“But-”

“I SAID NO MORE WALKING! You got a problem with that?!” she growled as she leaned in close, one eye closed, the other glaring into Twilight's.

“N-no...” the mare squeaked.

“Good. Now, miss Applejack? We would be delighted if you could show Twilight some earth bending, nothing too complex until she gets better. Perhaps you could explain the basics and philosophy of earth bending?”

“Ah guess,” the earth pony grumbled. “Okay, first things first. Yah wanna be an earth bender, yah gotta be stubborn, not take no for an answer. When the rock smacks into yah, yah gotta smack it right back, but harder. It ain't like your fanceh wind bendin' or fire bendin'. Yah don't blow it up, yah don't dodge around it. Yah take it head on cause yah gotta be tougher.” She looked the alicorn over. “When your legs all better, yah'll have tah work on that.”

“Ohhh, gotcha!” Twilight said with a wink. “So, my first lesson is to not take no for an answer! That means I refuse your denial and will, somehow, get you to come with us! No matter what it takes!” the alicorn said with a confident grin.

“That's not what ah... oh, forgit it. Ah got chores tah do, don't have time tah mess with your foalishness,” Applejack grumbled as she turned and walked to the kitchen. A moment later they heard the sound of the outer door slamming.

“Oh dear,” Fluttershy mumbled before looking to Twilight's leg. “Well, the good news is you're healing quite nicely. Within a few days it should be good enough to walk on. It'll still be a little weak and tender, but that'll fade quickly. Now, I'm going to go check on Big Mac.” She paused, before taking Angel off her head and placing her besides the alicorn. “Don't go anywhere. If you do, Angel will tell me, isn't that right?” The little bunny nodded. “Good. Now, I'll be back soon.” With those words, the pegasus turned and trotted off.

The avatar rolled her eyes. “Please, as if a little bunny could stop me from-” The rabbit jumped on her nose suddenly and glared into her eyes. The alicorn quickly cowered. “S-sorry, I'll be good.”

Upstairs, Fluttershy gently knocked on the door before walking inside. Big Mac looked up and smiled at the mare.

“Are you feeling better?” The pegasus asked as she quickly moved over to examine his leg.

“Eeyup,” the stallion mumbled. He then nudged his head towards the door.

“Hmmm? O-oh! That, ummm, they were just fighting about something, sorry. Did we wake you?”

“Nnnnope,” he said as he glanced to her with a cocked eyebrow.

“It's nothing important. Twilight just wants Applejack to join us, but she won't,” Fluttershy mumbled as she tended the leg. “I know the poor dear probably has a lot to tend to, what with you hurt and all. Just the two of you must have a lot to do here.”

The stallion sighed and shook his head. “Nnnnope.”

“Huh? Oh, then ummm... well, I guess she doesn't want to leave. She... I'm sorry. Twilight just wants your sister to teach her earth bending. She can be kind of stubborn sometimes, but she means well. Your sister doesn't want to come though, so there's no need to worry. She just doesn't want to go against the Water Nation and... Big Mac? What's wrong?” she asked as the stallion shook his head.

He sighed and looked to her. He then motioned towards the left. “Down tha hall, on tha right. Applejack ain't gonna leave that,” the stallion muttered.

“Hmmm?” Fluttershy squeaked. “I... I couldn't intrude. I-I mean... i-it's... wrong, isn't it?”

“Nnnnope,” the stallion said firmly.

She gulped and then looked down at his hoof before nodding. “O-okay. Well... if you want me to, it couldn't hurt. I'll go look after I'm done looking over your leg,” she mumbled as she gently ran her hoof along the break. Her hooves glowed as she soothed the pain, soon allowing the stallion to sleep. She gulped and slowly walked away, closing the door and then looking down the hall. She turned left and right before slowly tip toeing down the hall and gripping the knob on the right door. The pegasus stopped though, pulling her hoof away as she nervously nibbled her bottom lip and shuffled in place.

“What's yah doin'?” Spike asked from behind her as the mare shrieked and jumped up to the ceiling, hanging from it upside down.

“S-spike? I wasn't, I mean, Big Mac said I could, I was just, w-what were you doing?” she squeaked. A moment later she let out a shriek as gravity took over and she plummeted into the ground.

“Twilight is reading, Rainbow and Pinkie are helping with farm work and I'm bored. I just wanted to see what you were up to,” he reached out and gripped the door knob. “So, what's got your attention with this?”

“Wait, no, don't!” Fluttershy squeaked, but it was too late. The door was pushed open, as dust flew out and enveloped the two, forcing them into a coughing fit.

A large red carpet took up most of the floor, its threads still fresh and tight despite its age. In the center of the room a pristine, but old, blue crib stood. The walls were covered in cloud wall paper, with a sturdy dresser against the opposite wall. A number of blocks were scattered across the floor, as if they had been abandoned suddenly. Everything was covered in a thick layer of dust, as if the room hadn't been entered in years.

“What in...” Spike mumbled as he looked left and right. “This is creepy. Applejack's room from when she was a kid?”

“I-I don't know,” Fluttershy mumbled as she slowly stepped inside and looked around. She stopped in front of the crib and blew on the headrest. Carved into it was a single name. “Applebloom?” she read aloud.

“Who's Applebloom?” Spike asked as he walked inside and picked up a hoof made block. “She really needs to clean this place up. I don't think any pony has been in here in-”

“What in tarnation do you think you're doing in here?!” Applejack screamed as she stared at them from the doorway. Her eyes were narrowed into thin slits. “Who told you you could come in here?! GET OUT!! OUT!”

Spike dropped the block and squeaked as he ran from the room. Fluttershy froze in fright, her entire body locking up at the screams. “I was, I mean, I just thought, I came in and I, I didn't mean to, I was just-”

“AH SAID GET OUT!” the earth pony screamed as she stormed into the room and physically threw the pegasus out, making her roll on the floor. “Yah all have no right tah go through mah things! I want you out of mah house! Ah want you out NOW!” she screamed as she stormed out, slamming the room's door behind her. “Get the avatar, and get out!”

“B-but your brother, he-”

“Leave! Now!” Applejack screamed as tears started to flow down the side of her face. “Just... just go!”

Fluttershy gave a pathetic squeak before turning to run through the house, downstairs.

“What was all that about?” Rainbow asked as the mare made her way down. “We could hear her screaming from here.”

“I just, I didn't mean to, we were, B-big Mac said it was okay, we looked into a room a-and-”

“AH SAID GIT!” Applejack screamed from the top of the stairs. “All ah yah! Ah want yah outa mah house! NOW! Ah don't care where yah go, jus' GO! Ah won't have yah-”

“Nnnnnope,” a firm voice said from behind her.

The young mare slowly turned her head around to look into the scolding face of Big Mac, who was propped up against the door frame, his two damaged legs held under him.

“B-but... they went into Applebloom's room,” she squeaked as she lowered her gaze from the might of the angry Big Mac glare. It didn't faulter however, as the mare lowered herself closer to the ground. “They... they intruded and... and...”

“Nnnnope,” the stallion said again.

“Y-you let them go in?”

“Eeyup,” the wounded stallion said with a firm glare.

“Why?! It's none of their business! What happened to... what happened to them was mah fault. All mah fault...”

“Nnnnope,” Big Mac said again, though he stumbled slightly. Fluttershy quickly darted up the stairs, moving to his side.

“You need to be in bed, you're hurt. Come along, Big Mac,” the pegasus said as she moved to his side to help him. “Sorry we woke you...”

“What happened?” Rainbow asked as she flew up to land behind Applejack.

“It's none of your business... I...” Tears streamed down the earth pony's face as she choked on the words. “Just... I don't want... I don't wanna talk- EEEE!” she shrieked as her tail was grabbed and she was dragged down the stairs.

“Well, too bad!” the pegasus growled as she dragged the other mare into the living room with Twilight. She flung the earth pony besides the alicorn. “You're going to tell us what set you off. If for no other reason than you obviously need to talk to somepony about it.”

Applejack trembled in the cushions as she slowly looked around. Twilight stared at her in confusion, Pinkie and Spike had gathered on the floor with popcorn and Rainbow just glared at her with a defiant look. The earth pony slowly let out a sigh and nodded. “Fine... yah all win. Ah... ah'll tell yah what happened.” She took a deep breath, and began.

“It happened... years ago. Ah was young. Ah was... so young. Ah was about tah have a new baby sister, but ah had mah mind filled with thoughts ah adventure an' high livin'. Ah was tired ah livin' on a tiny lil farm with ah buncha...” she choked on the words as she wiped some tears from her eyes. “Ah knew if ah didn't go before the baby was born, ah'd never go. Ah left tah Fillydelphia, left mah home, spent a few months there,” her hooves trembled as she wrapped them around herself.

“Was close enough we had some trade with 'em. Ah tried tah live there, stayed with some cousins, an ah found what it was like bein' all fanceh and proper. Ah couldn't stand it, but ah tried. Ah started tah... ah started tah... ah got homesick. Ah came home as fast as ah could, ran tah the farm as soon as the caravan got close enough. Was gonna see mah baby sister and the entire family, couldn't wait,” she choked for a few moments as she wiped tears from her eyes. “E-even now I c-can remember how in the moon light the trees seemed tah almost reach out for me, as if tah welcome me home in a tight hug,” her eyes began to water even more as she shook.

“Then ah saw the barn, b-barely standin' and torn tah pieces. Our south field, demolished. Our home... the door busted in. It was... it was hours 'fore ah found out what happened. The Water Nation came, took supplies. Mah d-dad and m-mom tried tah fight em off, but they were outnumbered. Him, mah mother, mah lil sis... all taken and killed. Granny Smith an' Big Mac only survived c-cause... cause they were in the n-north field when it happened...” Her hooves trembled as the tears flowed like waterfalls. “Happened so fast, nopony in town even knew... even knew it happened. Ah shoulda been here. If ah hadn't go- oof!” the pony toppled over as Twilight tightly wrapped her arms around the crying mare.

“It wasn't your fault,” the alicorn whispered, her own eyes wet with tears. “You... you were just a filly. There was nothing you could do to stop them. If you had been here... you'd... you'd have died just like them,” the avatar whispered as she choked on the words.

“H-how could it not be mah fault? Ah should been there! It was mah responsibility! If ah had b-been here ah coulda done somethin'... Ah... ah coulda fought them off mahself. Or... or gotten them to safety, or... I...”

“If you had been there,” the avatar whispered as she shook. “Nothing would have changed. You'd have died or been captured, and they'd have still lost their horns.”

“Ah... what?” the earth pony asked in confusion.

“I-I mean, they'd have still died and... and everything. Y-you not being here saved your life. It saved your brother a sister,” Twilight mumbled as she glanced down, chewing on her lower lip. “There... there was nothing you could do.”

Applejack sighed as she turned away. “Ah... ah know. Ah understand. Ah just...” she closed her eyes and slowly got to her hooves. “Listen. Ah appreciate what you're doing. What... what you need to do. You're all brave, goin' against the Water Nation. But ah can't leave. Granny Smith an'... an' Big Macintosh, they need me. Ah can't just abandon them. Ah have a responsibility to them, an to this farm. There are ponies here who need me. Ah won't let them lose somepony else. Ah hope one day yah all can understand what that's like...” she mumbled as she turned and trotted away.

Twilight sighed as the mare disappeared, her gaze lowered as tears formed in her own eyes. “I guess that's it, then,” she mumbled. “We'll... we'll leave as soon as Fluttershy says I'm able.”

“You're going to give up, just like that?” Spike asked as he cocked an eyebrow. “I thought it was all, destiny you met, and stuff? What about not taking no for an answer and all that junk?”

“I... I can't,” the mare mumbled as she rolled around, her back to them. “I... I know exactly how she feels. She's... she's right. She has a responsibility. So do I. I can't waste any more time here. Every day I'm here, countless ponies die in this war. Ponies who wouldn't have to, if I hadn't disappeared. I'll just... I'll l-learn what I can from her, and then once my leg is all better, we'll go.”

Rainbow and Pinkie looked to each other, concern in their eyes. The pegasus took a step towards the alicorn, but for once was too slow. Spike stood up on his tippy claws as he hugged the avatar. “Twilight, it's not your fault,” he mumbled. “You're only one pony. You're trying everything you can to stop this, no one could ask any more from you.”

The alicorn sighed and shook her head. “How... how can you say that? It's because of me the dragons are all but extinct. My... everypony I ever knew is dead, likely after having their magic and horns torn from them. If I had been here, I'd-”

“You'd have been killed. Just like Applejack would have if she was here when they came,” the dragon interrupted. “It's too late to do anything about that. You've fought and been hurt for those who you can save. I've seen you do everything, face impossible odds, just for the chance to save ponies. It's taking time, and more ponies will likely die, but they'd die just as much if you ran off now and got yourself captured or killed. You aren't going to just give up now, and let all those ponies die for nothing, are you?”

Twilight sighed and rolled back around to face them. She reached out, and pulled Spike into a hug. “No. No I'm not. I'll... I'll never give up as long as I can still do something. Thank you, you're a wonderful friend.”

The dragon shrugged as red formed in his cheeks. “Aw, It was nothing. Just being the best assistant I can be.”

From just outside the room, Applejack sighed as she hung her head. She slowly made her way up the stairs, heading past Big Mac's room and to the room opposite her own. She slowly opened the door and peeped inside. “Granny? Yah awake?”

The room was warm and stuffy, the windows covered with a thick blanket to keep out the light. The room was clean, though it smelled stale and dusty. “Hmm? What is it, Appleblossom?” a very old, decrepit light green earth pony asked. She had the red covers of her bed pulled up to her chin, though she still shook hard enough for her gray mane to wobble.

“Oh granny. Appleblossom is... long gone. It's me, Applejack,” she mumbled as she moved to sit on the edge of the bed. “Sorry I haven't been by recently, I just... I've been busy...”

“Ah horsefeathers,” the old mare said as she reached out to rub her granddaughter's mane. “Yah all got a farm tah take care of, yah don't have tah worry about an old wreck like me. Ah know how tah take care a myself. Now, yah sure yah don't need any help with the fields this year?”

“I'm sure,” Applejack said as she tucked her granny in tight. “Don't you worry one little bit about the fields. Ah can handle them, and we can hire a few helpers if we need 'em.”

“Well, if you're sure,” the mare mumbled as she closed her eyes. “What's all the hub bub going on downstairs? Woke me outa mah dreams.”

“Oh! We have some visitors. The avatar and her friends-”

The elder mare's eyes shot open. “The avatar?! She's here?!” Applejack let out a startled shriek as the covers were tossed off, her along with them. “Why didn't yah wake me? We been waitin' over a hunerd years for her tah show her mane about here! My, she must be a lil older than me! Ah gotta see her!” The pony leaped to her hooves off the bed and galloped towards the door... her legs slowly moving an inch or so every few seconds.

“Now, granny Smith, you belong in bed. The avatar-”

“Now ah ain't so old ah can't climb outa bed and down a coupla stairs. The avatar, as ah live an' breath. Never thought ah'd see the day.” The elder mare took a moment to pause as she made it past the bed, leaning on the hoofrest.

“Oh Granny,” Applejack said with a smile. “Come on then, ah'll introduce yah.” She trotted on ahead, holding the door for the mare.

The avatar and her friends sat at the foot of the stairs, a deck of cards in front of them as they played a rousing game of go fish. Occasionally they glanced up as the elder pony made her way down, but they still had a while to go. After Pinkie won her sixth game, the final step was defeated and the earth pony took a shaky step on the ground floor.

“Whew, ah don't remember us havin' so many steps. Now, where's this avatar ah heard so much about?” she looked down to Spike and let out a gasp. “Mah oh mah, what has a hunerd years done tah yah? Yah gone an' shrunk tah the size of a filly! An' your skin, it's all... flaky!” the mare gasped as she poked the annoyed dragon.

“... I'm not the avatar,” Spike grumbled as he pointed towards Twilight. “That's her.”

The mare gasped again, her mouth falling open. “As ah live an' breath. Yah don't look a day over eighty...”

Twilight blinked and looked down at herself. “I... what? Eighty? But... but...” A glare from Applejack made her sigh. “Fine... I mean, thank you. My name is Twilight Sparkle, I'm the avatar. A pleasure to meet you at last, Granny Smith.”

“Ah can't believe it, the avatar, in mah home. If your mother were here she'd be so proud,” the elder earth pony said as she wiped a tear from her eye. “A feast! I'll go an whip yah up some delicious fresh apple thingamabobs like yah wouldn't believe!”

“Now Granny, there's no need for all that,” Applejack said as she moved to her elder's side. “Ah've already gone an' taken care of it. We have a number ah delicious treats at the avatar's beck an' call. We've treated her jus' like we would any guest, just like yah taught us.”

“Huh? Ah taught yah? Oh yeah! Now, avatar, yah gotta let us know. Are yah here tah finally put those gosh durn Water Nation ponies in line? Send 'em back to their own country, where deh belong?”

“Hah, and then some!” Rainbow burst out with a smirk. “We already took out one of their big armadas, and their general! Not to mention got both the sun and moon going again, right under their noses. Heck, at this rate we should have their entire army back where they belong before winter comes.”

The ancient pony's eyes sparked with new life as she semi-reared an inch off the ground. “Well, ah'll be a rattlesnake's aunt! Yah all gonna have it done so soon? My, wish yah all had come a bit sooner. Coulda...” the mare's eyes dimmed quickly as the energy in the room instantly fell flat. Even Pinkie gulped nervously as everypony went silent.

“Well, that's no reason to stop!” Applejack said quickly. “Now that ol' Granny Smith is up, how about we throw a delicious shin dig? Ah know Big Mac's a bit hurt, but ah can still cook yah up some mighty fine treats. Whaddaya say?”

“That sounds awesome!” Rainbow said with a grin. “Do you have any of those apple fritters or sweet apple cider left?”

“Mmmm hmmm!” the cowpony said with a nod of her head. “Yah all just relax. Avatar, I'd suggest yah get back tah restin' that leg ah yours. Don't wanna push it too hard and... huh? Granny Smith?” she called out as she looked around, but the mare was nowhere in sight. “Where in-”

“AHHHHHH!” Fluttershy screamed from the floor above.

“Ah buck,” Applejack groaned as she darted up the stairs.

“Yah all stay away from mah gran' son, yah siren!” Granny Smith yelled as she slowly chased Fluttershy around the room. The young pegasus trotted at a gentle pace, ahead of the mare.

“I-I wasn't, I'm sorry, I was just...” she squeaked as Big Mac held his head and shook it.

“Yah all think jus' cause he's laid up in bed, yah can sink your fangs inta him? I'll have yah-” Granny Smith snapped, only to be stopped as Applejack galloped up behind her and yanked the excited earth pony back.

“Wait! She's a nurse, she's just tending to Big Mac's leg!”

“Huh?”

“She's a nurse. Big Mac's leg got hurt, she's tendin' to him while it gets healed. She's a friend of the avatars!”

The elder pony blinked a few times before looking to the cowering mare. “O-oh. Ah'm awfully sorry. Ah thought yah were one ah Peach's girls, comin' tah try an steal mah gran' son away.”

“N-no p-problem...” the pegasus squeaked out as she cowered on the floor, hidden behind her soft pink tail. “C-c-could happen to a-anypony...”

Twilight sighed as she shook her head. “This is going to be an interesting meal...”

The sun slowly disappeared as the moon triumphantly made its way up from its resting place. All seven ponies, and the dragon, had managed to gather at a large table filled to the brim with sweet smelling foods. While they lacked the full course of apple flavors that Big Mac had created, there were a new variety of non-apple based products created with the help of Fluttershy and Pinkie.

Twilight was the heart of the party, the elder pony demanding to hear story after story of her adventures, both old and new. “So, there I was,” the alicorn said before taking a sip of her drink. “Cookie jar on my head and struggling to get it off. Meanwhile, the other foals are just laughing their flanks off. I finally run around so much I trip and fall, shattering the jar and sending the cookies everywhere. Instantly, the laughter just stopped. I couldn't figure out why, until this biiiiiiig shadow, as large as a house, suddenly towered over me. I looked back, and there she was. My teacher, Sunset Shimmer. The glare she was giving me alone made me start to cry.”

“Was this before, or after the flaming tapestry incident?” Rainbow asked with a snicker.

“Just before. So, here I am, crying, covered in cookie crumbs and everypony just runs away to leave me with my teacher. Oh, I'm terrified at this point. I just know I'm going to get yelled at, or grounded. But, the moment the other kids were gone, she just rolled her eyes and started picking up the mess. Starts lecturing me about how I need to focus on my bending, not working on my telekinesis. Tells me I'll never become a master like her if I don't. It took a while but we... we got it cleaned up,” the mare's wings began to droop slightly as her gaze lowered. “She then gave me a cookie. Told me it was still pretty impressive that... I was able to use my telekinesis to lift something so heavy at my age. That I still deserved a... a reward even if... if I did break the rules,” she whispered as her eyes began to mist over. She quickly shook her head and wiped her eyes. “T-the cookies didn't hold a c-candle to your fritters though, heh heh,” the alicorn said nervously as she picked one of the fritters up and took a bite, a moment before letting out a sad sigh.

The ponies looked awkwardly between each other as Spike patted her back. After a few moments the older mare spoke up again. “So yah know a buncha fanceh magic on top ah all dat bendin'?”

“Oh, yes! Well, I did, at one time. I always found magic really fascinating,” Twilight mumbled with a soft blush. “I used to practice all kinds, even pulled off a teleport spell, once. When it was discovered I was the avatar, I no longer had time to learn magic. I had to focus all my energy into my fire bending.” She shrugged. “Now it's kind of stagnant. I doubt it would have mattered much, though. As exciting as magic is, I still found bending just as fascinating and I probably wouldn't have ended up being that good at it. Many unicorns train their entire lives just on that, and I doubt I could have come anywhere near their levels.”

“Are yah kiddin' me?” Rainbow said, her mouth filled with apple fritter. “Yah'd pobabwy be dah bed maggion in dah world if yah put youw mind to it!”

“Really? You think-”

“Oh yeah,” the pegasus said as she downed a gulp of cider to clear her mouth. “You're a complete egg head. That's what magic is all about, right? Being all smart and knowing all those fancy things?”

Twilight blinked a few times. “Well, yes, ummm, there is quite a bit of math that goes into magic. See, you have to balance your-”

“Exactly. You're one of the smartest ponies I know, and you're still young. I bet if you really wanted, you could master all kinds of magic and find out how to do really cool things like teleporting all over,” Rainbow said with a smirk and a nod. “Who knows, once you master all the elements and we kick the Water Nation back to where it belongs, you can learn all the magic you want.”

The alicorn sighed before shaking her head. “As nice as that sounds, I doubt that's going to happen. Also, I'm not sure how much of that was a compliment, and how much was an ins-” she was cut off as a loud pounding filled the room. Applejack turned towards the door, eyes wide.

“Now who in tarnation would be comin' around here at this hour ah the night?” the orange pony grumbled as she got to her hooves and trotted towards the door. She pulled it open as a red unicorn mare stumbled inside and collapsed.

“A-avatar?” the mare called out. Her entire body was caked in sweat, as she panted on the floor.

“I'm here!” Twilight said as she got to her hooves, cringing slightly as the tiny burst of pain as she limped over. “Who are you? What's wrong?”

The mare looked up, her eyes slightly glazed from exhaustion. “D-drowsy Void. It's destroyed. The... the...” she trailed off as Applejack gave her a mug of cider, which she quickly downed. “I hid. Listened. Had to find you, had to warn you,” the mare groaned as she closed her eyes and gasped for breath. “They... they found fire benders. The Water Nation is heading t-to the E-ever... Everfree Forest.”

Twilight's body went rigid as the words echoed through her mind. A loud, high pitched wail filled the air. A few moments later she realized it was her own scream as the words washed over her like a tidal wave.

Chapter 14: Consolidating Forces

The sun slowly rose from the east, casting its warm, life granting glow across the town of Sweet Apple Acres. Despite the early time, ponies had already awoken and were moving through the town, greeting each other and going about their business. Crowds of carriages were making their exits from the town as a semi-mass exodus took place. Amongst the crowds, the young white princess, with a staff across her back, went unnoticed.

Rarity headed straight towards the town's inn, milling through the crowds as best she could. The building was packed almost shoulder to flank, as ponies gathered their breakfasts before either heading back to their rooms or out into the world. After bumping into a number of guests, she made it to the front counter and gently rung the bell.

“Huh?” a green unicorn mare asked looked up from her papers. “Sorry, are you checking out?”

“No, I'm looking for somepony. Do you have a Jademane staying here? Older unicorn, clear mane, white coat?”

“Ummm... let me check,” she said as she pulled out a number of papers. “Sorry, it's our busy time right now. What with the tournament ending and the avatars visit.”

“The avatar? She's here?” Rarity shrieked as she put her front hooves on the counter. “Where? Can I see her? Which room?”

The green mare gulped as she tried to hide, unsuccessfully, behind her clipboard. “I-I don't know. She was here yesterday, but I don't know if she's still in town. I'm afraid we don't have a Jademane staying here. We booked up rather quickly last night, however. Perhaps she stayed somewhere else?”

“Yeah yeah,” Rarity said as she glanced towards the doorway. “The avatar, here, I could finally... no!” she shook her head. “Bad timing. Pony's lives are in peril. I can track her down later. Are their any notes or messages left here for a Diamondeye?”

The green unicorn just stared. “Miss, are you okay? I uhhh.... huh. Well, actually. There is one note, ummmm, hold on.” Her horn glowed as a small envelope was dropped on the counter. “Here! Have a wonderful day!”

“Thank you!” the young princess yelled back as she took the note and slowly navigated out of the crowded lobby. She heard somepony say the word avatar, and her body froze. She nervously bit her lower lip as she glanced to a few ponies chatting about the alicorn, but quickly shook her head. “Focus. Not now.” She forced her way out of the lobby before peeling open the envelope and gingerly removing the letter.

The page was blank, except in the center where some very, very small letters were written. She frowned as she leaned in, squinting her eyes as best she could. “Aunt, what is wrong with you? Now is not the time for codes,” she grumbled as she moved the paper ever closer as she struggled to make out the words. She cocked an eye as realization dawned on her. “Boo? What is-”

“BOO!” a mare's voice said as the paper was shoved away. Celestia stood, a few inches from the young princesses face.

“GAHHHHH!” Rarity screamed as her horn glowed and she whipped her staff around, smacking her aunt in the side of the head. “Aunt? AHH! I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry!” she shrieked as she nervously hopped around her fallen aunt, horror etched into her face. “I didn't mean, I'm so sorry, you scared me, please be okay, please! I'm so sorry!”

“It's... It's quite alright,” Celestia groaned as she slowly wobbled her head back and forth. “Just... just need to rest a moment.”

“There's no time. I came back because... we need to talk in private. This... this is something... there are no words,” the princess said as she looked left and right. “Here.” She held out her hoof to help the elder pony up.

“I take it your... talk with your sister didn't go well?”

“You... you knew?” Rarity asked nervously, her gaze lowering.

“I am a light sleeper. If... you wished to make such a decision, I had no right to stop you. I am happy you have made the right choice, however,” Celestia said as she leaned on her niece and the two walked off to the side of the street.

“The Water Nation knows where the remaining fire benders are hiding. Sweetie intends to eliminate them. They are hiding in a place known as the Everfree Forest.”

Celestia's eyes widened slightly. “The... Everfree Forest? That was... That is a strange, magical place. Our world and the spirit world are very close there. Trixie used the magic there to...” she shook her head. “If the ponies are hiding there, that will buy us some time. However, we must move quickly if we wish to save these...” she paused as she looked down at her niece. She slowly wrapped her hooves around the young mare and smiled.

“W-what? What is it?”

“I'm proud of you, my niece. You are quickly becoming the very mare I always knew you would be.”

“W-what? I'm not, what are you talking about?”

“Nothing,” Celestia mumbled as she slowly pulled back and glared towards the south. “We must move quickly. Countless lives depend on us. Come along.”

Rarity nodded as she slowly followed alongside the elder mare. “How is your head feeling?”

“The throbbing will pass. I've been hit by much harder things. Still hurts less than one of the late general's speeches.”

Twilight trembled helplessly as she sat on the large couch. A small paper bag was held to her mouth, as she slowly took deep breaths into it. Finally, she lowered it and looked around. “O-okay. I think I'm good. No more attacks. N-no more stress. I'm calm.”

“Well, that's good,” Spike said with a shrug. “Now we can at least focus on the giant fleet likely on its way to eliminate the fire benders. How about- come on!” the dragon snapped as the mare struggled with another attack, nearly popping her bag.

“O-okay. I think... I think I'm good,” the alicorn squeaked. “F-for real this time. We need to move fast, though. I need allies. If the Water Nation is heading there, the Everfree Forest won't protect them forever. I need to get them somewhere farther from their lines.” She glanced to Applejack. “How far is Fillydelphia from here?”

“Not too far,” the earth pony mumbled.

“Okay, here's the plan. Rainbow, you're our fastest. I need you to go to Cloudsdale.”

The pegasus nodded with a smirk, before freezing. “Wait, what? Don't you mean Fillydelphia?”

“No. I'll head there with Pinkie and Fluttershy. I'll try to convince them to let us bring the fire benders there. But, in the mean time, we'll need the air benders. Their flying and forces will be needed to help evacuate everypony. Without them, the casualties will likely be... higher,” she mumbled as her gaze lowered. “The earth benders will have to go around the forest as it is. If the air benders come, they will be able to fly over Everfree. They can then help evacuate or ambush the Water Nation.”

“But what about you? Without me by your side-”

“We'll be fine. I'm sure I can make do for a week or so without you. We'll meet up again at the forest,” the alicorn said as her gaze lowered. “Please. You're the fastest pony I know. If any pony can get reinforcements from them, you can. Speed is of the essence here.”

The pegasus growled, but slowly nodded. “Fine. I'll meet you there. You better not be late, understand?”

“Of course, Fluttershy, please help me up,” the alicorn said as her yellow friend moved to her side. “I'll leave immediately. We'll head into town and join with the other ponies heading to Fillydelphia. Perhaps we can get some pony to help us get there faster.”

Rainbow nodded as she turned and galloped out the door, taking off into the sky. Once she was gone, the avatar turned to their hosts. “I'm sorry we had to cut our trip so short. Applejack, Big Mac, Granny Smith, it was a pleasure. I wish we could leave under better circumstances, but I'm afraid I don't really have much choice.” She bowed her head as she slowly trotted towards the door, leaning heavily on Fluttershy. “Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.”

“Mmmm hmm,” Applejack mumbled as she slowly walked after them. She stopped at the door, watching as Pinkie hooked herself to the cart and began trotting off. The mare leaned against the frame as she watched them leave, a soft sigh escaping her lips. She turned around and smiled to her brother. “Well, let's go an' get yah back up tah bed. Got a bitta time before yah can walk again. All this excitement an' walkin' around can'ta been good for it.”

“Eeyup...” the stallion mumbled as he narrowed his eyes on her for a moment, before nodding.

“What do you mean, they're lost?!” Sweetie screamed at the top of her lungs.

“T-they're gone, completely,” a unicorn stallion squeaked as he kept his gaze lowered. “W-we sent the scouts ahead into the Everfree Forest, none returned. We don't know what happened to them, but they should have returned ages ago, your highness.”

The young mare paced back and forth in front of her soldiers, occasionally glancing at the mediocre numbers. Even her tank was still suffering from severe damage, a thin trail of smoke spilling from the top. “Then what are our options?”

“Whatever you wish, your highness,” the stallion said quickly. “But, I would advise that we head around the forest. Our messengers have likely arrived by now, so when we reach the valley there should be a sufficient force awaiting your command.”

“That'll take forever!” Sweetie snapped as she trotted towards the woods and looked up. “How can the lot of you be frightened of just a few trees?” She stopped on the edge of the forest and shook her head. “Cowards!” She walking inside, past the first few trees.

“Your highness! Please, come back, that's dangerous!” a voice yelled from ahead of her.

“Oh, calm yourself coward. I've only walked a few feet inside, I... I... huh?” the unicorn stopped as she looked around. She turned around and started walking again, but didn't burst out from the woods. “Where is... HELLO?” she yelled.

“Your highness! Where are you?” the stallion's voice came, though it sounded farther away.

The young mare gulped nervously as she hugged her tail to herself. “Where... what magic... GET ME OUT OF HERE! TEAR THESE WOODS APART IF YOU HAVE TO, BUT GET ME OUT!” she screamed. Something snapped behind her as she whipped around, but in the darkness she saw nothing. “H-hello? I-Is anything out there?”

Twilight's mane kept twitching as she looked down the road. Their cart was one of almost a dozen. Once they made it to town, ponies had almost tripped over themselves to get the privilege of pulling their cart, and quite a few had quickened their plans so they could have the honor of traveling with the alicorn and her friends. She would have felt honored, but all she could think about was the force slowly coming closer and closer to the few remaining fire benders. Fluttershy never left her side, continuously maintaining a healing glow over the limb as they traveled.

With nothing left to do, she rolled onto her back and gazed at the sky, her body still occasionally twitching. She sighed at the almost barren tapestry of blue, the only marking a single large white cloud. “How long will it take?”

“We've only just left,” Fluttershy said softly as she gently stroked the leg. “Just stay calm. We have plenty of time. Just focus on getting better. At this pace, you should be able to walk when we finally get to Fillydelphia, though your leg will still be a bit tender. Do you have any plans to get them to agree?”

“Not a one,” the alicorn grumbled. “I guess I'll just ask the ruler for help. I'm not sure how Earth Kingdom politics work. If we can get permission to hold my ponies there... well... I don't think the Water Nation could take it. A hundred years ago, this kingdom was known as one of the most powerful and impossible to crush. I don't think much has changed since then. If I can get everypony there, they'll be safe... won't they?”

“I'm sure they will,” the pegasus whispered gently.

“That, or they'll just say buck you and tell you to take care of yourself,” Spike said with a chuckle. A quick glare from all three ponies, and a bunny, made him cough nervously. “B-but, errr, you're the avatar. I'm sure they'll be more than willing to help you.”

“Exactly!” Pinkie said with a giggle as she trotted besides the cart. “Besides, we already spent so much time getting the sun and moon back in order. It would be sooooo boring if it all got screwed up now and we had to fix it.”

“Boring, right,” Twilight grumbled as she glanced to her friend. “Sometimes I'd love to visit inside your mind.”

“You wouldn't last five minutes,” the earth pony said as she hopped along. “Don't worry Twilight. I'm sure everything will be okay, and when am I ever wrong?” The mare's smile slowly faded into a frown. “Well... aside from those few time. But I'm sure I'm right this time. Probably.”

“I wish I could be as confident as you,” the alicorn grumbled.

Sweetie let out a gasp of relief as the trees behind her were finally cut aside. A swathe of destruction had been sliced through the woods by her soldiers. She frowned as she took an unsteady step across the fallen tree life, nervously glancing back at the bushes and trees that seemed so intimidating only moments before. She made her way from the foliage until she was just a few feet from the exit, at which point she made an undignified dash out. The mare then turned to the forest which had held her prisoner for what felt like hours.

“None of the scouts have returned?” the unicorn asked.

“None,” the soldier reiterated. “Shall we send more?”

“No,” she said quickly. “These... I thought that prince of theirs had been exaggerating, but it seems not,” she turned south. “We'll go around. Once we've gathered enough of our forces, we'll invade slowly. We'll cut each and every one of these trees down if we have to, but those benders will be mine.”

“Of course, your highness,” the stallion said as he turned and scrambled off.

“Sweetie, are you okay?” Scootaloo asked once the soldier was gone.

“I... I'm fine. There was nothing in those woods that could- eep!” the unicorn gulped as both her friends moved in to give her a tight hug.

“Yah don't have tah lie tah us,” Flowerbloom said with a smile. “Ah know it couldn't ah been nice bein' trapped in those woods. Yah were awfully brave, not cryin' out or nothin'.”

The young mare let out a sigh before looking around to ensure none could hear. “I heard things in there. Listening. Watching. I don't know what is in these woods, but it's terrifying. Nothing touched me but... I swear it wanted to. I'm certain if we tried to navigate through, we'd lose most, if not all our soldiers. We'll have to cleave our way through.”

“Are yah sure? Won't that slow us down an' be really tirin?” the earth pony asked.

“Perhaps. But, the longer we take the better the chances of the avatar coming to stop us,” Sweetie mumbled as her gaze lowered. “After I allowed that pony to escape, well... I imagine she doesn't know we're expecting her. She'll have no idea that she's walking straight into a trap. If it takes us a bit longer, well, that'll just make her think she has more time to ambush us. All the better when we snap closed on her and show her the true might of the Water Nation.”

“What if she doesn't come in time? Or at all?” Scootaloo asked.

“Then she'll be able to add a new title to her list. Avatar, the last fire bender. It has a nice ring to it, does it not?” Sweetie asked with a snicker as her eyes glowed purple.

“Your highness, everypony is ready to depart,” the stallion said as he made his way over and bowed. “We await your orders.”

She nodded. “Of course. We leave immediately! As soon as we meet with our main force, the invasion and end of the fire benders begins!”

Days passed slowly until, finally, Twilight's destination was within sight. Giant walls of dirt and stone towered over the plains they traveled, nearly as tall as the mountains themselves. As they came ever closer, she could make out small dots on top of the battlements. At first she imagined they were birds, until one jumped off and descended towards them, a piece of the wall shooting out to catch her and carry her to the ground. An earth pony. It took almost a full minute for the descending pony to slide down from the great height. She finally landed in front of the carts and pulled a clipboard from her side saddle.

“Okay, everypony line up. My name is Ms. Harshwhinney,” the mare yelled. Twilight jumped down from the cart, cringing slightly. She quickly trotted towards the mare. “We'll need to ask some identification questions before we allow you through. No foods are allowed inside the walls, so if you have them, you'll need to dispose of them out here. Any benders please step forward and identify yourselves for additional screening. If you have a... yes?”

“Listen, I'm sure this is all really important,” Twilight said quickly as she gingerly tapped on the mare's shoulder. “But I really need to talk to your ruler immediately. Ponies lives are in danger, and I must negotiate with him, or her.”

“Mmm hmm, of course you must,” the mare mumbled without even looking up. “Now, if you'll all line up an-”

“Ms. Harshwhinney, I'm sorry but I must insist. You see, I'm the avatar and-”

The earth pony rolled her eyes as she looked up from the clip board. “Of course you are. Now, I'll give you congratulations on the fake horn. It does look quite real, but you'll need to wait in line like everypony else. You-”

Twilight twitched as she flapped her wings once and a burst of wind shot out, nearly toppling the mare over as her clip board went flying. A moment later a burst of flame shot from the alicorn's horn, flying over the mare's head. “I am the avatar and this discussion cannot be delayed. Every moment I waste is another second the Water Nation gets closer. Do you understand?”

The brown coated mare stood there, her mouth hanging open as she stared. “You're... you're the avatar. You're... you're the actual...” her eyes twitched slightly before she turned and galloped towards the wall. “Open the wall! The avatar has come! She's here! She's actually here!”

“That was kinda cool,” Spike said with a chuckle as he hopped from the cart. “Why didn't you just burn up the clip board though? It would have been even cooler!”

Twilight gasped. “W-what? Why would I ever do such a thing! I mean, sure, it would have demonstrated my powers, but imagine all that paperwork the poor mare would have to do? Not to mention if there were multiple hours or even days of work on there. It could send the entire system into disarray, panic, anarchy, chaos!” she shrieked as she clapped her hooves on each cheek. “T-the madness!”

“Nevermind,” the dragon grumbled as he rolled his eyes.

“How is your hoof feeling? Any pains?” Fluttershy asked as she moved forward.

“It did twinge a bit when I jumped from the cart,” Twilight mumbled as she looked it over. “But it feels great other than that. Your healing was wonderful, Fluttershy. Thank you. Come on.” The large group of carts and carriages made their way towards the wall as a large crack formed up the entirety of it, before slowly parting. Ms. Harshwhinney trotted back quickly. “Avatar, you and your escort may go inside where you'll meet with our commander. Everypony else, you still must go through inspection.” A loud awwww filled the air as the alicorn gave them a guilty smile before trotting on ahead into the city.

Off in the distance another, slightly shorter, wall stood blocking off the inner city. The alicorn flew into the air a few yards to get a better view of the surrounding area. The portion they were in was filled with miles of farm land. Fields of apples, corn, lettuce, cows, and pretty much everything she could imagine spread out on all sides as far as she could see. Hundreds of ponies were working away, gathering the needed foods as they were put on the backs of others to be hauled into the inner city. She landed a moment later, her mouth hanging open. “Wow,” she whispered as her mouth continued hanging open. “You could survive forever in this place.”

“Well that's what we were kinda going for!” a loud voice called out from ahead of them. A dazzling pale gold earth pony mare stood in front of them, wearing the brightest white poofy outfit the avatar had ever seen. “A pleasure to meet you Avatar, I've heard all about you from my men! Simply Seeeeennnnsational what you did to those water benders down in Cloudsdale!” the mare said as she walked over and took the alicorn's tender hoof, shaking it firmly.

“Ow, ow ow, p-please stop. That hoof is hurt,” Twilight squeaked. “M-my name is Twilight Sparkle. A pleasure to meet you, miss... ummm?”

“Ah, right. Allow me to introduce myself!” the mare said as she brushed her blue man back. “My name is Sapphire Shores, the dazzling commander of the Earth Kingdom's army! A pleasure to meet you,” the earth pony bowed politely.

“You are? Wonderful!” the avatar squealed as she clapped her hooves together. “Everything is going so well! We need your help and... errr. Actually, I think I need to talk with your ruler. This is all kind of... really important. How long would it take before I could meet with him, or her?”

“Him,” Sapphire said with a frown. “I'll see what I can do! However, the king is quite busy with the city and all that! If you'd like to-”

“I'm afraid we can't wait long. We need to act, immediately,” Twilight frowned as she looked to the ground. “Please, I must speak with him, the future of... so much, depends on it.”

The pony let out a sigh before shaking her head. “I'll see what I can do, but his highness really is quite busy. Runs the entire joint, you know. If you would please explain what exactly it is you need him for?”

Twilight sighed before taking a deep breath. “Well you see, there is a single group of fire benders still remaining, despite the Water Nations efforts to stomp them out. This group has been hiding in a place known as the Everfree Forest and have been the ones responsible for the raising of the sun each morning. Unfortunately, the Water Nation has found them and is on their way to eliminate them, for good. The forest is too close to the lands they now control, so our only hope is that they can be removed from there and brought somewhere safe. I would like to formally request that the Earth Kingdom give the last of my people safe haven from the Water Nation.” She shook her head as she came up for a quick gasp of air.

Sapphire nodded her head as they walked. “Seeeensational! An entire tribe of fire benders? We'd heard rumors about the reappearance of them since the sun first came up. To imagine, an entire tribe! The last of the fire benders...” she nodded. “I see. We'll help.”

“You will?!” the alicorn shrieked, before lunging forward and hugging the mare. “Oh, thank you thank you thank you!”

“Hmph. Overstepping your bounds. I see,” a voice snapped from their right. A light blue earth pony with a pure white mane slowly trotted towards them. She wore purple glasses over her eyes and a white and black dress. “What would his highness think of this, hmmm? I, Photo Finish, shall have to report this.”

Sapphire sneered. “Photo. I am doing no such thing. As the commander of the Earth Kingdom's forces, his highness trusts me to-”

“Direct battles, yes,” the mare snapped. “Offers his kingdom as sanctuary? No.” She glanced to the avatar, before looking back to the glamorous mare. “I will bring this to his highness's attention. Run along, you. Do whatever it is that you do. Go, go.”

The earth pony growled, before turning and trotting away. The alicorn looked nervous. “Does... that mean, we won't get help?”

“What? No!” the mare snapped. “His highness, he is, as we say... fabulous. He is the magic that keeps the kingdom going! But, we cannot perform our duties without him, no?” the mare said as she adjusted her glasses. “I am the Photo Finish, commander of the Dai Li. Come!”

“The Dai Li?” Twilight asked as they trotted towards the large inner wall. Pinkie let out an excited squeal from behind them as she hopped along.

“Yes. The elite force that helps to protect the kingdom. We keep all things in the city working well, and-” the mare stopped suddenly as the inner wall slowly parted. She snapped her hoof forward. “Fabulous.”

Twilight's mouth fell open yet again. While the outer city was all farm land, the internal city was made up of thousands of tall square homes. The streets were wide, but filled to the brim with carts and ponies. Tall pillars supported tracks that ran throughout the city, on which stone vehicles and carts flew at rapid paces. Earth ponies in flowing brown robes worked both the tracks and the street, trotting around quickly.

“W-wow,” she whispered as she stared. “How do you... how long did it take to create all this?”

“Time? Nonsense!” Photo said as she began trotting again with a flick of her tail. “We, earth benders. We create cities in the blink of an eye! With poise and dignity, we craft entire empires!” the mare said as she held up a hoof. “Come. The emperor, he waits.”

Twilight nodded quickly. “O-oh, right. Sorry, coming!” she squeaked as they quickly trotted through the city. Each step met with jostling and shaking as ponies struggled to get by in the crowded streets.

“Twilight!” Spike shrieked as he was quickly being carried away by the waves of crowds. He was plucked from the hordes by Twilight's telekinesis, before being dropped gently on her back.

“Are you okay?” the alicorn asked softly as she continued trotting, moving her wings up slightly to protect the baby dragon.

“Yeah, why is it so busy here?” he asked as he held onto her mane.

“Is it not obvious?” Photo asked as she kept trotting. “This is the center of our kingdom. The pillar upon which all stands. Glamorous. Radiant. Magnifique. All ponies come from miles away to see the glorious city. Refugees, most.”

“Refugees?”

“Many cities were lost in the hundred years past. Our emperor is kind and generous. A star!” Photo said as she raised a hoof high. “He turns none aside. None!”

Twilight let out a sigh of relief, followed by a shriek as she was almost knocked over. “I-I see! Wonderful, I guess that means he'll be more than willing to help us. When will... oh. O-oh my...” she froze once again as they turned a corner and the palace came into view. Carved of stone and jewels, the multi-floored structure towered over the guards that surrounded it. Statues of golden griffins stood in front of the main entrance, their bodies poised as if to pounce. Massive stone statues of guards ponies, so life like she swore she saw one flinch, lined the walls. A red, velvet rug covered the stairs leading towards the main entrance.

“Is beautiful, is it not?” Photo asked with a smile. “Glorious, radiant. A home fit for a glorious emperor, no?”

“No... I-I mean, yes, w-what was the question again?” Twilight eeked. The crowds died down as they got closer, but the moment she stepped on the bottom end of the rug, a voice yelled out.

“Freeze! None pass-” an earth pony yelled as she stormed forward.

“Silence!” Photo interrupted. “This is the avatar, do you not see the wings? The grace? The magnificent poise?!”

The mare eeked and froze, skidding across the carpet a few feet. “M-miss Finish! I'm sorry, I didn't realize they were with you. Please, come along. My apologies, miss,” the mare said quickly. A moment after the group passed she blinked a few times. “Wait, avatar? That's the...” she shifted her eyed and watched as they left, before immediately darting towards the nearest guard. “Psst! The avatar is here! I totally saw her! I talked to her and everything!”

Twilight slowly walked through the long marble hallways of the castle, occasionally glancing left and right. Large tapestries of earth ponies in all manners of garments hung on the wall. Ponies with strong, powerful backs, fierce gazes and determined postures. Guards wearing brown robes were stationed at every door, allowing them inside. It wasn't long before they were led to a large chamber, with tall marble pillars and a throne of powerful oak. Sitting in the throne was a large white stallion, who was chatting to yet another robed pony. His eyes broke away for a moment, as he turned towards the arriving ponies. “Photo? What is the meaning of this?”

“His highness, Emperor Fancy Pants,” the mare said as she bowed her head. “I, Photo Finish, have brought troubling news and a request for an audience from none other than,” she paused for effect, “The avatar.”

Twilight and her friends quickly bowed their heads as the stallion stared at them. “The avatar? Truly? What a magnificent surprise!” he turned to the robed pony and smiled. “I'll leave everything in your hooves. Dismissed,” he then jumped from his throne and trotted towards them. “Please, raise your heads.”

The alicorn did so, her eyes glancing towards the stallion as he came closer. With each step she could see the guards twitching, their eyes focused firmly on her. “Your highness, I've come to request your aid. The last of the fire benders are in danger and they require a place to hide, as well as aid in their escape. As the avatar, I've come to humbly beg for your assistance in these matters, for sanctuary for my people.”

The stallion frowned as he nodded. “I see, dark times. A shame this can't be done under more pleasant terms. But, I suppose with the war on, there is no-”

“GASSSSSP!” Pinkie said as she darted in, staring into his eyes. “He knows about the war! He knows about the war!” she shrieked as she started circling him, looking into his ears and under his mane.

“I... yes? Of course I do. A hundred years of darkness is quite difficult to be unaware of. I do- Eek! Miss, please control yourself!” he snapped as she flicked his tail up.

“Ohhhh, but if he knows he... gaaaaaasp! He's an imposter! He must be! Maybe he's not even an earth pony at all!” the excited pink mare yelled as she continued hopping around. The other ponies just stood, their mouths open in shock, unable to react. “I bet he's a unicorn! No! He's a griffon in disguise! No no no! I got it! You're a changeling, yes! Of course, a changeling! It all makes sense! Show me your holes!”

“I, I will do no such thing!” the stallion said quickly as his cheeks burned red. “Quite an... interesting friend you have, avatar.”

“Yahhh!” Twilight yelled as she jumped Pinkie and covered the mare's mouth. “Errr, yes. She is a bit... eccentric. I do hope this won't, errr, damage any relations. Sorry...”

The stallion shook his head. “No, it's quite alright. As I was saying, these are trying times, avatar. War is constantly being waged and the Water Nation, for the longest time, seemed almost unstoppable. I will not lie, I had begun to think one day my very city would fall. However,” Fancy turned and trotted towards one of the windows that overlooked the castle grounds. “Since your arrival, even I hear the rumors and cries of hope that spread through our cities. Ponies that once were so certain the Water Nation would overwhelm us all, now feel the will to turn against these armies and fight them back.” A smile spread across his lips as he nodded. “As such, I would be a fool to turn my back on the very one who has brought us such hope. However... I do have one request first.”

The alicorn gulped nervously. “Y-yes, your highness?”

He slowly turned, a large grin on his lips. “Could you give a demonstration of your power? Even as a child I'd heard stories of the avatar's might, to see it myself would be a dream come true!”

The avatar starred for a few moments before nodding. “T-that's all? Really? I... hee hee. That will be no problem at all, your highness!”

“Wonderful! Photo, would you retrieve Sapphire?” The earth pony nodded and departed. “Good, good. Now, avatar, your demonstration?”

Sapphire strolled into the throne room, a smirk on her face. Until she saw the state of the walls and floor, at which point her mouth fell open. Scorch marks were burned into the stone, the carpets had thick, black holes seared through them. Even the guards hadn't gotten off unphased, many of them toppled over into piles, their manes stuck on end. A moment later a powerful wind flew through the chamber, nearly toppling the mare over as she quickly looked around. Her eyes narrowed as she saw the source.

Twilight stood before the emperor, her wings flapping wildly as the powerful winds bounced and split through the room. A moment later her horn burst into flame as she burnt a searing scar across the far wall.

Fancy stood there, a large grin on his face as he nodded rapidly. “Marvelous, simply marvelous! Imagine, two forms of bending.”

“W-what... what happened here?” Sapphire asked as she slowly trotted forward. “Your beautiful throne room, it's... it's...”

“Ah, don't worry about this,” Fancy said with a shrug. “The avatar was merely demonstrating her powers for me. Truly marvelous! Now, Sapphire, I have a task for you. You must gather a force to head to the Everfree Forest.”

“Ah, of course. The first force has already been sent, and I am gathering more as we speak,” the mare said proudly as she puffed out her chest. “We should have-”

“You already sent a force?” Fancy snapped as he stomped his hoof down. “We've talked about this. Again and again.”

“Errr, sire?” the pony squeaked as she took a step back.

“While I appreciate your desire to do your job, you must cease making orders for me.”

“B-but your highness, I was only anticipating your orders.”

“Yes, which you have done countless times,” the stallion snapped. “Both for good, and bad. If you wish to anticipate my orders, prepare your soldiers, don't have them sent again until you receive orders, understand?”

The mare sighed as she slowly nodded. “Of course, sire...”

“Very well. Go and prepare the next force, and have somepony prepare living quarters for the avatar and her-”

“I'm sorry, sire. I won't be staying,” Twilight interrupted.

“What? Why ever not?” Fancy asked as the ponies in the room stared at her.

“I must join my people. It is my responsibility to go there and be by their side. I'll leave immediately.”

The stallion sighed, but slowly nodded. “Very well, I will have an escort prepared for you.”

“Thank you, your highness,” the avatar said as she bowed her head again.

“No need, avatar. Commander?” he asked as he turned to the mare. “Have an escort prepared, I will trust you to go with it.”

The mare nodded, “Of course. As you wish, your highness.” She gave a curt nod before quickly turning and trotting off.

“She seems angry,” Twilight mumbled. “Did you really need to scold her like that?”

“Yes,” he sighed and shook his head. “She is an amazing earth bender and a wonderful commander. Unfortunately, she is quite hot blooded and has a tendency to rush to get things done, without awaiting council or orders. Fortunately, she is usually correct. She is one of my most trusted advisers and I could think of no mare greater at what she does.”

“With all do respect, your highness,” Photo said quickly as she trotted into the throne room. “She lacks the poise, grace and control a true star of our forces needs. I, Photo Finish, could think of at least five ponies who would shine like a star in the night sky if-”

“We've been over this,” Fancy snapped. “I trust her. Now, I'll want a number of the Dai Li to accompany the avatar as well.”

The mare gasped, her hoof moving to her chest as she stumbled back. “A-accompany the avatar?! But, but they must remain here! To protect the kingdom! We are-”

“The avatar's life is pivotal to the entirety of our kingdom. You will remain here, along with the vast majority of your forces. But you will send a number of the Dai Li with the avatar in order to keep her safe. Sapphire will have command of this operation as well, understand?”

Photo stared for a few moments, her mouth open. She sighed, before slowly nodding. “Very... very well. I, Photo Finish, will prepare an escort of Dai Li. Then, you go,” she said as she turned away with a snap of her tail and stormed away.

“I get the feeling no pony is going to be very happy on this trip,” Twilight mumbled.

“Worry not, avatar,” the stallion said with a smile. “They are all very competent and capable ponies. They may not always agree, but they wouldn't be in the positions they are if I didn't trust them with my life. Now go, rest and eat. You may leave as soon as your escort is ready, but not a moment sooner.”

Twilight nodded as she performed another bow. “Thank you, your highness. Your kindness and generosity are a welcome gift.” She smiled before trotting away, her friends following behind her. As she passed out into the castle halls, she glanced out the window. The sky was filled with puffy white clouds, which made her sigh. “I hope this isn't an omen of what's to come...” she grumbled.

Chapter 15: Accursed Luck

The sun slowly began its descent to the west, casting long shadows across the hills and rocks that covered the Earth Kingdom. Twilight let out a soft sigh as she glanced to her traveling companions. They consisted of her friends, four of the Dai Li in their robes, Sapphire and over a dozen earth ponies. Wagons filled with supplies were pulled slowly behind the group as they traveled down the long, dusty roads.

“I spy with my little eye... something beginning with R!” Pinkie said, a sad attempt to lighten the mood.

Most of her companions just gave the pink earth pony a solemn glance, before shaking their heads and returning to looking ahead. Even Spike, who had played the last three times, refused to comment as the procession slowly made its way down the dirt road.

“We can stop when the sun fully disappears behind the cliffs,” Sapphire said suddenly.

“What? Why? We should be traveling all night!” Twilight snapped. “Ponies need us, and-”

“If we travel all night, more chances of us getting injured due to no light. Not to mention we'll all need sleep after the days travels,” the commander interrupted. “It won't do any pony good if we arrive, but are too tired to help anypony. It's also easier to sleep in the dark, so we'll be better rested.”

“But, but...” the alicorn tried, before lowering her head. “You're right. I'm sorry, I just-”

“Am worried about your ponies,” Sapphire interrupted again. “As are we. We will save them, and we will defeat the Water Nation. Do not worry, we will arrive as quickly as we can.”

“I know,” Twilight mumbled as she looked around. The alicorn then shook her head and spread out her wings. “I'm going to see if I can find us a good place to rest. I'll be right back,” she said as she flapped once and took to the air.

“Avatar! Wait, we don't need...” the commander called, but the avatar ignored her.

The alicorn flew up and landed on one of the many clouds in the sky, letting out a sigh as she sat down. “This is going to be a very long, horrible trip, isn't it?” she mumbled to herself. She slowly looked around for a smooth place to rest as she flexed her hoof a few times. “At least I can fly and land properly now.”

The clouds covered the avatar's face as confusion spread through her. A moment later her back came alive as pain shot through her, eliciting a scream as she felt a blade pierce her side. Her wings spread out and flapped, creating a quick whirlwind around her. The cloud was scattered as she pulled away and looked around.

A griffon hovered in the air, her arms shielding her from the winds. A bloody dagger was held tightly in her talons as her beak curved into a nasty grin. “It's been a long time, hasn't it, Avatar?”

“W-who? What? Why are you attacking me?” Twilight asked as she clutched her side, blood trickling down. Below, she could hear the others yelling for her. The alicorn tucked in her wings as she started to dive, a moment before the griffon slammed into her. The winged beast thrust both of them into another nearby cloud, a talon wrapping around the avatar's tender hoof and twisting it back. A scream tore from her lips as agony shot through her.

“Don't remember your old friend Gilda, do you?” the griffon growled as she dug a talon in the alicorn's wings, slashing across the tender flesh and sending feathers into the air. “No Rainbow to save you this time.”

The alicorn screamed as she flapped both wings as hard as she could, despite the pain that shot through the wounded one. Fierce winds enveloped them, sending the griffon off as the clouds under her crumbled to pieces. Her hooves flailed through the air as she began to fall, shrieking as she descended. The ground shot up at her as she slowly spread her wings out again, the wind tearing through her wounded limb, but dampening the fall.

Suddenly powerful arms wrapped around her, pinning her wings to the side. Gilda slammed her beak down against the alicorn's skull, dazing the avatar as she tucked her own wings in and forced their descent away from the mare's reinforcements. Twilight struggled in the griffon's grasp, but her talons refused to let go and her beak continued to strike against the poor pony's skull. As the ground came closer and closer, she gave one last powerful strike into the back of the alicorn's head, before removing her arms and instead gripping the dazed pony in her talons.

Twilight was unable to scream as she was slammed into the ground, Gilda shoved up behind her and smashed her into the dirt. She skidded through it, her body digging a ditch as it traveled. She mercifully lost consciousness after a few seconds of agonized crushing.

The griffon didn't hesitate, wrapping her arms around her prize before lifting into the air. She let out a squawk of pain as she was suddenly stopped. She craned her neck to see a clamp of rock gripping her tail feathers. She growled and, with a powerful flap of her wings, pulled free from the binding, a few of her pinions scattered in the air.

“After her!” Sapphire yelled as the earth ponies continued to run as fast as their legs would take them but, unfortunately, the griffon was soon high in the sky, disappearing into the clouds. Fluttershy flew as fast as her wings would allow, but she was no match for the larger, faster and stronger creature. As the sun finished its descent behind the mountains, the griffon was gone. The ponies solemnly regrouped on the ground.

A small fire was soon created, which the solemn ponies gathered around. They stared at it in silence for as long as they could bare, unable to look up. “We've failed,” Spike finally mumbled.

“It's hopeless now,” one of the earth ponies agreed. “Without the avatar, how can the Water Nation be defeated?”

Ponies slowly nodded their heads in agreement. Fluttershy tried to suppress her tears as Angel stood on her knees and slowly tried to wipe her sadness away. After a moment Pinkie opened her mouth, but was silenced as Sapphire stood up.

“I can't believe what I'm hearing,” the commander snapped as she kicked one of the burning embers, sending it flying towards the gathered earth ponies. “One little battle lost, and you're all ready to give up? Here I thought I was in the presence of my soldiers, not a bunch of simpering fillies! Fine, you all want to run back to Fillydelphia with your tails between your legs, feel free. Why don't yah all just head to the Water Nation and surrender while you're at it? How about you?” she asked as she glanced to the Dai Li. “You all planning to simper on your way home?”

“We follow your orders, as instructed,” the nearest one said quickly.

“There. I never thought I'd see the day when a bunch of Dai Li were willing to get the job done, that my own soldiers were too busy whining about. Despicable. I'm going to bed. When I get up, I'm going to get the mission done. The avatar may be gone, but that just means I'll have to trust her to get out on her own.” She stomped her hoof down as the dirt rose up and put the fire out. “Any pony who's too afraid to do their duty, I don't wanna see so much as a hair from you when morning comes. I'd clear out now. Good night.” With an angry huff, the mare turned and walked away from them, only to drop down and create a small earth tent around herself.

After a few moments her soldiers looked to each other and slowly got to their hooves, walking away from the sizzling remains of the fire.

Sweetie grumbled slightly as she stared up at the night sky from her resting place on top of her tank. The gentle rumble threatened to lull her into sleep, though she struggled to resist. She looked to her right, towards Scootaloo. “What time is it?”

“I don't know...” the pegasus yawned. “Should be dawn soon... look,” the pegasus mumbled as she pointed east. A gentle orange glow could be seen over the forest.

“Wonderful,” the unicorn grumbled as she rolled onto her stomach and looked over at her soldiers. Heads hung low enough that horns nearly touched the ground, and each step threatened to topple them over. “Our forces better be there when we arrive, I didn't order this forced march so everypony could just collapse when we arrive,” she grumbled as she jumped down from the slow moving tank, trotting along side it.

“Waaaaaaeeeeehhhhh...” Flowerbloom yawned as she dropped down besides the mare. “W-why don't we just go and rest in the tank? They'll wake us when we arrive.”

“Mmm, that does sound nice,” Sweetie mumbled as a small purple glow filled her eyes. She then shook her head and slapped herself. “No! If I require my soldiers to travel through the night, I can do the same. If you two wish to rest, you may. But I will not sleep until after we arrive.”

“Your highness!” a voice pieced the night as a pegasus, dressed in the shadowbolt uniform, flew from the sky in from ahead of them, quickly landing and bowing his head. “We have been awaiting you.”

“Hmmm? Why? What's wrong?” Sweetie asked as she kept walking, unwilling to risk stopping lest she be unable to start again.

“Your forces have been alerted and are now gathering in Thunder Valley,” the stallion said as he raised his head and walked besides her. “Most of the units from the fire lands have arrived, but the armies, as well as their tanks and other equipment, from the Water Nation are still a few days out.”

“Good, good. How long until we arrive? These woods seem to go forever,” she growled.

“It is still many hours out, you won't be arriving until dawn. At least, on hoof.”

“Hmmm?” She looked to the east. “But it's already dawn,” she mumbled with another yawn as she motioned towards the orange glow.

The pegasus looked, before smiling. “No, your highness. If you would allow me the honor, I could carry you to your forces. For you see, that isn't the sun. That is the glow of the camps fires.”

Sweetie stumbled, her mouth falling open. “I... what? But... what?” She quickly shook her head as she stood up straight. “Take me,” she ordered.

Within moments she was held by the pegasus, her legs wrapped tightly around him as well, as they flew high into the air and then over the forest. She soon caught sight of the source of the glow, causing her mouth to fall open with a soft squeak.

The valley was spread out for miles, surrounded by tall cliffs with occasional breaks. The forest connected with one of the breaks, and just outside the treeline stood the camp. Thousands of torches and hundreds of tents had been set up, as far as the eye could see. Ponies stood outside by large camp fires, sleeping and chattering, most wearing armor of her nation. Pegasi, earth ponies and unicorns, crowded against the small entrance to the accursed forest. “That's... there... how... there have to be more ponies here than in the entirety of the Water Nation!”

“Indeed,” the stallion said as he lowered himself towards the ground, dropping her gently on the ground. A large grin spread across his lips as he watched her.

“How... how could such a large force... where is the commander? Have them brought to me, immediately!” she said as she wobbled from side to side and stared. “And then... then go tell my escort they... they can rest. We can wait for morning for their reinforcements. "Holy...”

The stallion nodded. “As you wish,” he said before flying off into the air.

Sweetie plopped down, her eyes scanning across the hundreds of tents, each easily able to hold a dozen ponies. She began to feel excitement build up within her, thrashing against her heart as a wicked grin formed on her lips. She tried to contain it, but it was too powerful. She threw her head back, and laughed. “Bwahahahahah! Mwahahahahah!” she roared as the chilling laugh echoed through the camp, sending shivers down the spines of many of the sleeping ponies.

“Your highness?” a voice called out. She stopped her laugh as she turned her gaze downwards, and frowned. Before her stood a gray earth pony stallion, dressed in their dark armor.

“Yes?”

“A pleasure to meet you at least,” he bowed his head, his black and gray streaked hair moving over his eyes. “My name is Caballeron, the commander of this army.”

“But, you're an earth pony,” she mumbled as she cocked her eye. “You can't possibly be a water bender.”

“I am afraid not,” the stallion said with a shake of his head. “But, you'll quickly find we are in short supply of benders. As a matter of fact, only one out of every twenty ponies here, can bend. As such, I was chosen by our previous commander to take his place.”

“I see,” Sweetie mumbled as she looked around, her excitement deflating. “There's always something, isn't there? Very well. Tell me, how is it possible there are so many here? Even the Water Nation lacks such an impressive force. Even if it is composed of... non-benders.”

“We've been awaiting this day, your highness,” the stallion said as a grin formed on his lips. “For the last hundred years we've been tasked with nothing more than being a secondary country, forced to defend and control this nation, to ensure the fire benders never rise again. While the mother land has been engaged in constant attacks against the other two countries, we've been gathering our numbers and growing ever stronger. While only a hoofful of us can bend, I assure you our loyalty and competence are unmatched. We have been waiting nearly a hundred years to be able to prove our worth to our brethren, and we will not let you down. All we ask is that you give us a chance to fight for you.”

Sweetie frowned as she moved closer. Her hoof reached up to grab his face, and forced him to look into her eyes as they glowed purple. After a moment, she nodded. “Good. Very well, you will all get your chance, in more ways than one.” She turned from him as she ground her hoof into the dirt. “These woods, I want them destroyed. Cut down, one tree at a time. Burned as fire wood, shaped into weapons of wars, used as a scratching post, I really don't care. I want a unit working twenty four hours a day.” She stopped for a moment as she rubbed her chin, a malevolent smile forming on her lips. “If this all goes well, and your ponies as as capable as you say... you might have a new position awaiting you. We did recently lose our general, after all.”

The stallion's eyes glimmered for a moment as he quickly saluted. “As you wish! Consider your orders done!” he said as he turned to leave.

“Hold it. One last thing,” the unicorn said as she glanced back. “I trust the remaining ponies of this country are under control?”

“Of course, your highness. We have gathered up and consolidated the prisoners to our largest remaining cities, where they will remain under a chosen guard until this war is over.”

She nodded with a smile. “Good. Now, go and have my orders done.” She chuckled as she began to trot away. “Oh avatar. Come, try to stop me. I'll be waiting. Mwaheheheheheh.”

Twilight's head lulled from side to side as she struggled to focus on the world around her. Every time she felt the world slowly coming into focus, a sharp blow to the back of the head made her black out again. The world lulled by her in a haze, blurry and shifting. She eventually felt herself being dropped, groaning softly as she stared up at the wobbling griffon standing over her. “Stand... stand still...” she groaned.

“Might have hit you a few too many times on the head,” Gilda grumbled as she took out a rope and began tying the mare up. “Don't worry, little avatar. No pony will be coming to save you this time. It's been a real pain in the flank tracking you down, you know? Was starting to think you and Rainbow would never split up.”

“Guh!” the alicorn groaned as the rope wrapped far too tightly around her wings.

“Oops, sorry... well, not really. Come on, we have a few hours before we get to Los Pegasus and I wanna sleep in my own bed in the morning,” the griffon said as she hauled the pony up. With a mighty flap of her wings, the two were off.

“Why... why are you doing this? I thought... you were friends with Rainbow?” Twilight groaned as she struggled against the bindings.

“Pfft, friends? No,” Gilda said with a chuckle. “I respect her and... don't really want to fight her. But, we're far from friends. A job is a job, avatar. I've never failed, and I didn't plan on letting you be the one to cause my first.” Her claws dug into the alicorn's sides, eliciting a pained groan. “Now, are you going to behave and keep quiet, or do I need to be rough?”

Twilight gasped, but slowly lowered her head. “Please. Ponies need me. My people are under attack, and if I'm not there to help, who knows what will happen? You can't do this. If it's money you want, I'm sure the emperor would be more than willing to pay. All you'd need to- OW!”

“I said be quiet. This is a job, I don't turn my back on a job. Payments already been dealt with as it is.”

“Who hired you?” the avatar finally asked.

“You'll know soon enough. I'm sure they'll come to collect you, soon.”

Twilight sighed as she looked down at the world far below. She tried moving her wounded wing, but the feathers were so damaged she doubted she could fly without a chance to fix them. With no current method of escape, she quickly turned her mind to plotting an escape when the ground was closer.

The sun began to rise, yet again, as the drowsy alicorn slowly opened her eyes. Off in the distance she saw a large, floating city in the clouds. Stone and wood were molded with the cloud, allowing a few non-fliers to travel. Despite there only being a few piers, dozens of ships bearing the crossed bone flag of pirates floated around the city.

“That's strange,” Gilda muttered.

“What is? Ow!” Twilight shrieked as the claw dug into her side.

“I said keep your mouth shut,” the griffon hissed as she slowly descended down to the clouds. She called out to the nearest pirate, a pegasus. “What's going on? Why are all these ships here?”

The stallion shrugged. “No idea. Some Water Nation brats flew in on ol' Steel Beards ship a few days ago. Everyponies been gathering ever since.”

Gilda growled as she tossed the alicorn over her back. “Keep your mouth shut,” she ordered.

Twilight eeped as she slowly nodded, her gaze lowering to the ground. The griffon started walking through the city.

“Gilda!” an old one-eyed griffon called out as he slowly hobbled towards the two.

She turned and respectfully bowed her head. “Graybeak. Is there something you need?” she asked as she raised her head.

“Perhaps,” the aged griffon froze as his remaining eye focused on Twilight. “Is that... the avatar?”

“Of course. My mission is a success. I now just need to track down the two who hired me and-”

“They are already here but... hmmmm,” Graybeak raised a scraggly old claw to his beak and slowly rubbed it. “This... this is troubling... very troubling. They are at the Diamond Mule. If you wish to- huh?” the elder griffon nearly fell over as Gilda charged past him.

Within moments the two barged into a small bar. The place was bustling with dozens of ponies and griffons sitting about, telling gaudy stories while drinking mugs of rum. A thin layer of smoke descended on the two, making the alicorn's eyes water.

“There!” Gilda said as she quickly walked towards a one of the corner tables. Twilight looked up as her eyes went wide. Celestia and Rarity were sitting at the table, discussing with a pegasus in a tri-pointed hat. As the two approached, the young princess was the first to look up. Her mouth fell open, unable to let out any sound aside from a small squeak as the alicorn's body was tossed roughly onto the table. “Job complete,” the griffon snapped, ignoring the clatter as mugs toppled to the floor.

“Gilda?!” the pegasus growled. “What in tartarus do you think you're doing? I'm having a discussion here! You better pay for these drinks.”

“Stow it, featherbrain. I'm just finishing my job,” she snapped before turning away from them. “Congratulations.”

Twilight groaned as she shook her head, before struggling to get free from her bindings. A high pitched shriek filled the air, making her freeze.

“Niece, calm down,” Celestia said quickly, but it was too late. Rarity jumped to her hooves, her front ones on the table as she stared down at the alicorn.

“Calm down? How can I possibly calm down? It's the avatar! After all these years, the avatar is right here, in front of me! I have her! She's mine!” the princess shrieked with delight as she nudged the mare. “I can go home. I can finally go home! I'm going to-”

“Niece, remember why we are here, we-”

“Stow it!” the princess yelled as she placed a hoof on Twilight's head. “Buck those ponies. I don't care any more! I can finally go home.” She moved her head down lower, gazing straight into the alicorn's eyes. “Do you hear that?” she gently whispered. “Soon, little avatar... you'll be in the Water Nation and I will be back in line for the throne, where I belong. I win. I finally win.”

The avatar's heart pounded in her ears, the sounds of the room fading from existence as she stared into her captor's merciless, but excited, eyes.

Chapter 16: Confidently Positioned

Fluttershy awoke to the soft, delicate chirping of a small flight of canaries. She slowly opened her eyes and sat up, glancing around for a few moments until she saw the gentle birds. Perched on a small tree, just off the side of the road, the little singers gently sang their song in response to the morning sun. The pegasus looked around, but the other ponies were still asleep, so she slowly moved towards the little birds and smiled. “Hello little darlings, what are you doing up so early?” she gently whispered.

“Waking everyone up, what else?” Spike said as he leaned over from the opposite side of the tree.

Fluttershy squeaked, her entire body going rigid. “W-what are you doing u-up?” she asked softly. “Oh! N-no, sorry!” she called out as the birds took to the air, abandoning the two.

“I couldn't sleep,” the dragon mumbled as he laid against the tree. “We need to find Twilight...”

The pegasus slowly moved closer to Spike, gently placing a wing against his back. “I... I know. None of us are... are happy about what happened. But, as it is, we have no real idea where they took her. The only pony who would have any idea, is Rainbow. But, we won't meet her until after we regroup at the Everfree Forest.” As the little dragon let out a sad sigh, she gently moved her leg over his shoulder. “There there. Twilight is strong and brave. If any pony can escape, she can. She might even meet us at the forest.”

“Pfft, like there's any chance of that,” Spike grumbled with a roll of his eyes. “I like Twilight and all, but let's be fair. Without us, she's kinda hopeless.” He puffed out his chest. “Besides, I'm her number one assistant. I should... have been able to do something...”

Fluttershy stared for a few moments before a small grin formed on her lips. She gently wrapped both her hooves around the baby dragon and pulled him in for a hug. “It's going to be okay...” she whispered. “There was nothing you could have done. It all happened too fast for any of us to do anything.”

“Yeah, but if I had been... I don't know...” he tried to look at his back. “If I was grown up and had wings, I could have gone up with her. If I wasn't so small and useless.” He kicked the ground, sending a small dirt clod scattering.

Fluttershy's hooves tightened around him as she rested her head on his. She could feel moisture against her chest as tears welled up in the baby dragon's eyes. “You're not useless,” the pegasus whispered. “You're a member of our team. No matter what happens. Twilight will be fine, I know she will. She's smart, strong and capable. Besides, nopony expects you to be able to stop everything that happens, you're still just a baby.”

Spike growled and shoved her away, eliciting a small shriek from the mare. “I-I'm not a baby!” he snapped as he wiped the moisture from his eyes. “I'm not a baby! I just, I'm just still growing! I can take care of myself!” he growled as he turned and stormed off.

“S-Spike? Where are you going?” Fluttershy asked as she struggled to trot after him.

“I'm going to find Twilight myself. We saw the griffon head in this direction, so that's where I'm going!”

“W-what? But... but, we need to stick with the others,” Fluttershy squeaked as she followed after him. “Come on, Spiky, we-”

“GAHH! No! I'm going to find the avatar, and that's that!” the dragon snapped as he glared at her. “You want to go to the forest? Then just go. I don't need you, and I don't need anypony!”

The mare stopped in her steps, looking nervously after him, then back to the group of sleeping ponies. She sighed, and turned to run back to the group. She quickly nudged Pinkie awake.

“Huh? Wuh?” the earth pony asked as she slowly opened her eyes.

“Pinkie, listen. I don't have much time. Spike wants to... well, he's going off on his own,” the pegasus said as she glanced back towards the retreating dragon. “I'm going to follow after him. Watch Angel for me, okay? I'll bring him back to meet you at the forest just as soon as I can.”

The pink pony glanced between the pegasus and dragon, before slowly nodding. “Okie dokie loki.”

Fluttershy nodded, before turning and galloping after Spike.

“I win, I win! I finally win!” Rarity shrieked with delight as she pranced around the table, her head held high and practically skipping with each step. Twilight shivered as she watched the troubling display.

“Now, dear niece,” Celestia mumbled. “We may need the avatar to-”

“No no NO!” the princess shrieked as she turned and pointed a hoof at her aunt, who leaned back. “No 'now niece', no 'but', no 'need'. I won. I've FINALLY captured the avatar! Do you have any idea what this means to me? I can go home! I don't have to sleep on the ground, I don't have to hide in fear of being caught, I don't have to hang my head in shame! I can return home, to my birth right! I can be a princess again! I can sleep in my own bed, talk to my servants, spend all day designing whatever I desire! There are no longer any buts or ifs!” Their host, the pegasus, just sipped what remained of his tea as he watched the confrontation.

“But niece, what about those ponies, if they-”

“I! Don't! Care!” Rarity shrieked. “Do whatever you want, but I'm returning home.” She grinned as she leaned in close to look the alicorn in the eyes. “Do you hear that, little avatar? I'm going home. Finally. Hee hee. I win.”

Twilight took a deep breath as fire began to gather on the tip of her horn. Rarity turned to the avatar instantly as her own horn glowed, a spike of ice thrusting out from their spilled drinks and impaled besides the alicorn's face. “Don't think I won't hurt you if I have to. If you try anything I'll remove your horn and... and...” the princess stopped her giddy dance as she dropped to her knees and covered her face with her hooves. “It's not fair...”

“Niece?” Celestia asked gently.

“It's not fair...” she growled. “I won... I finally bucking won...” She looked down at the trembling alicorn, before smashing both hooves down against the table. “I finally won, you over glorified bender! Do you have any idea what that... no. No no. I'm being too simple. We can stop my sister, without the avatar.”

Celestia smiled and reached a hoof out to pat her niece's head. “Do you really believe that?”

The young princess took a deep breath and nodded. “Yes. We can. My sister is a good girl. Once she realizes I'm coming home, she'll abandon her quest and return with me. Return with us.”

“And when you return home, my sister will force her to go back, force your sister to destroy those ponies. Force her to rip the horns from the-”

“Enough!” Rarity shrieked as she laid her head face first on the table. “Do... do you think I don't know that? Do you think I'm not... not aware...” Tears began to fall down her face as she slowly looked up at the alicorn. “Well? What do you have to say?”

“I... I have no idea what's going on,” Twilight squeaked. “But, I do think you should let me go. Errr, if you could. My people are in trouble, the last of the fire benders. I need to be at their side, to help them fight off... well... you're nation.”

“Oh, we're aware,” the princess growled. “Believe it or not I... have just as much intention to stop this, as you do.”

“W-what? But, you're, why would you?”

“Don't get too excited,” Rarity growled with another slam of her hoof. “I'm not doing this for you, or for your ponies. I'm doing this for Sweetie Belle,” she mumbled as her head lowered. “She's not... herself. I will save her. But, if she goes through with this... if she orders those ponies to... I know my little sister. I know what such a thing would do to her. Nopony should have to endure such a thing...”

“Wait... you're sister? She's the one leading the attack?” Twilight asked as she cocked an eye. “This gets... more and more confusing.”

“It's a long story,” Celestia mumbled. “If we untie you, avatar, do you give your word not to attempt an escape?”

“What?! We are not untying her!”

“Please, be reasonable,” the elder pony said as she sipped her tea. “The avatar is surrounded by pirates on all sides, and covered in her own blood. She is, currently, in no state to really fight us. If we're to save your sister from her own choices, then we must work together. In order to do that, we must discuss. It is very difficult to discuss, while she is strewn out on a table like a fruit platter.”

“... Fine,” Rarity grumbled.

“Now, avatar, do you give your word?”

“Not a chance! My ponies need me, and I-mmmph!” she was cut off as the elder pony covered her mouth with a hoof.

“Avatar, we both share the same goals here. Albeit, for different reasons. You may either work with us and try to get along with my niece, or you may ignore any help we offer. Which do you believe is better for your tribe?”

As the hoof was removed, the alicorn growled, but slowly nodded. “Fine. Just untie me. I won't... I won't flee.”

“Good,” Celestia said as her horn glowed and the ropes were slowly un-knotted and dropped to the side. “Would you like some tea?”

“Errr, sure,” Twilight squeaked as she crawled off the table, sitting so Celestia was between her and Rarity. She glanced to her leg, sighing. “I really wish I could have Fluttershy look at that. Now, what did you mean, you want to stop your forces?”

The young princess glared daggers at the alicorn. “My sister, Sweetie, is the current commander of this operation. At least, as far as I know. If those ponies are captured... they will either be killed, or their horns removed. My sister isn't the kind of pony who would do that.”

Twilight snorted. “If she's not that kind of pony, then why is she planning to try?”

“Because that's not the kind of pony she is! She's being forced against her will!” Rarity slammed her hooves against the table again, shaking it as her aunt tried to pour the tea.

“Being forced against her will? How could she possibly be doing that? I thought you said she commanded the units?” Twilight asked as she took her tea and nervously sipped it.

“Discord, my dear,” Celestia said. The alicorn choked, coughing and snorted the tea out her nose and mouth.

“Ack, cough cough, grak... W-what? Discord? Discord is here? But he's still trapped, oh no no no no!” the alicorn shrieked as she got to her hooves. “I'm not ready to face him yet!”

“Be calm, Avatar,” the elder unicorn said with a soft chuckle. “He has not escaped. His corruption has... twisted ponies. Through the generations. My younger niece, and Rarity's sister, is the newest victim. I am afraid she does speak the truth. Sweetie, as she was, would never have performed such an act. She was kind, sweet and afraid to harm so much as a fly. Now she would slaughter the entirety of your tribe for the glory it would bring.”

“I won't allow her to suffer that,” Rarity snapped. “That's why we came here. To seek help to stop her. While we are no allies of you, or those ponies, I won't allow my sister to suffer the eventual pain of such a command.”

Twilight perked up. “So does that mean you'll give up on trying to- ow!” The alicorn cringed as she was slapped by her tea.

“No! You're still my prey and I'm going to capture you! But, for now, and only now, we're going to have to work together. If you keep trying to make more of this than there is, I'm going to slap you with this table next.”

“Can you even pick it-”

“I'll find a way!” the unicorn snapped before turning to her aunt. “So, what now?”

“Well, I believe I know a few who can help us. Tell us, avatar, what help have you gathered?”

The mare sighed. “The Earth Kingdom is sending forces to help. The Air Nomads should as well. We're planning an evacuation to Fillydelphia.”

Celestia nodded slowly as she sipped her tea. “I see. An evacuation could work well. If her prey isn't there, then there will no longer be reason for Sweetie to follow them. Attacking Fillydelphia would be nearly impossible as well, if you could gather the ponies together. Except, for one minor flaw.”

Twilight groaned. “What?”

“My other niece has a head start. A full scale evacuation takes time. There's likely no chance for everypony to gather what's needed. Sweetie will have to be delayed,” the elder mare slowly sipped her tea as she looked the two over. She softly put the glass down, got to her hooves and trotted away. “Come along, you two. We must find Steel Beard. I have a plan.”

“You do?” Rarity asked as she glared at Twilight.

“Oh, indeed. And if it works we'll be able to save both your sister and those fire benders... or we'll die in a horrible explosion. But I'm sure the former is more likely.”

Twilight and Rarity, for the first time, glanced at each other with the same concerned look.

“Ah can't believe this,” Sapphire sighed as she held a hoof over her head. “You just let her go? Do you have any idea what's out there?”

“... Rocks? Dirt? Trees?” Pinkie offered helpfully.

“Yes. Also, bandits. Entire kingdom has been infested with them. Ever since the sun came out, everypony treats it like a wide world of adventure and excitement, where they can just take what they want. We've been attempting to curtail the problem, but there's a reason most caravans have at least a few earth benders.”

“Oh... I'm sure she'll be fine,” the pink pony said as she happily hopped around. “She can fly and carry Spike no problem. If anything bad happens, they'd have no trouble escaping.”

The commander shook her head before looking back to the other ponies with them. All were still present. “Well, I'm happy the lot of you decided to not bring shame on our kingdom. Start preparing breakfast, then move out. Nothing cooked, travel rations. We've got a long day ahead of us.”

“So we're not going after the avatar, ma'am?” one of the earth benders asked.

“No. The avatar has to work on her own, ah'll trust her. Our business is following orders. That means getting those fire nation ponies, and getting out. Now let's git,” the pony yelled as she stomped a hoof.

“So... why do you do that?” Pinkie asked.

“Do what?” the earth pony asked.

“Every so often you start talking like Applejack. A few words here and there.”

“Ah don't know any pony named Applejack, but I assure you that ah talk in my own sennnnsational way!” the pony said boisterously.

“You just did it there, again! Just a little bit!”

“You're just hearing things. Shush.”

“But-”

“Ah said shush! Come on, now git!” she yelled as she started stomping away, the ground shaking with each step.

“What did I say?” Pinkie asked as she followed after the mare, who pointedly ignored her.

The sun was slowly beginning to set as Fluttershy followed after the dragon. “A-are you sure you know where we're going?”

“For the third time, no. I'm just going the way the griffon was. If you're so scared, why don't you just go back? We passed a road not too long ago, you could probably take it to Fillydelphia,” the dragon grumbled as he kept walking through the tall grass.

“N-no, I don't want to l-leave you all alone,” she whispered as she shifted her eyes left and right for any sign of danger. “W-we should go back. T-the others might be worried.”

“I told you!” he yelled as he turned to her and jammed a claw into her chest. “I'm not going back without Twilight! I don't care if I have to chase that griffon to the edge of the kingdom, I'm going to find her!”

Fluttershy gulped, before gently nodding. “I... I'm sorry. You're right.” A smile spread across her lips. “I'm sure we'll find her.”

Spike rolled his eyes and started walking again. “How is it you can glare down the Great Dragon, but a little walk through the countryside has you jumping at shadows? A little consistency would be nice.”

“I don't, I never...” the pegasus hung her head as she followed after him. “I'm sorry...”

The dragon glanced back before slowly lowering his gaze. He nervously poked his claws together as he walked, before letting out a soft sigh. “I'm... I'm sorry. I know you're not... thanks for coming with me. I know you don't like being out here alone and all. Especially with the dark. I'm just worried about Twilight. I don't think I can expect Rar... the Phantom to save her again. It's up to us.”

Fluttershy blinked, before trotting up to the dragon and putting a wing over his shoulder. “We will. And, I know if she knew how hard you're looking for her, she'd feel a lot safer right now.”

The dragon sighed. “You think so?”

“I know so,” she patted his back.

“I can't believe my eyes! That's a dragon, a bonified dragon!” A voice called out. The two froze as they nervously looked around. Three unicorn mares were standing besides a large oak tree. Daggers were sheathed at their sides with crude spears on the backs of two, though the third had a sword across her back. “Don't see many, or any, of their kind these days.”

Fluttershy squeaked as she took a step back. “S-spike, stay back.”

“What? I'm not scared of a couple of ponies,” he snorted. “They probably can't even bend.”

“Well, duh. We aren't a bunch of the Water Nation trollops,” the sword mare said as she stepped forward with a large grin. “Now, calm down lil pegasus. We don't wanna cause you any harm.”

The yellow mare gulped. “R-really? H-how can I help you?”

“Well, a little prize like that?” she motioned to the dragon. “Could earn just about anypony a pretty penny. We just wanna share, that's not so bad, is it?” The sword was slowly drawn from its sheath. “You don't mind sharing, do you? You aren't one of those greedy ponies, are yah?”

Fluttershy squeaked as she moved her wing between the ponies and Spike. “H-he's not for s-sale or trading or s-sharing. He's his own pony a-and he can do what he wants,” she said with a soft squeak of fright as the other two unicorns darted around to surround her from three sides, spears drawn.

“Now now, why you have to be so greedy? We have no problem sharing him, say... eighty-twenty. We'll even set up the buyer if you want,” the mare said with a wicked grin. “But, if you're going to be a big, bad, meany head.” She shook her head with disappointment. “We'll just have to show you how to share, won't we girls?”

“Mmhmm,” the one behind Fluttershy's right said.

“Eeyup,” the one on the left said.

“S-stay back!” the pegasus squeaked as she spread out her wings. “I-I'm an air bender! I-I'll fight you i-if I have to!” Her hooves wrapped protectively around the small dragon as she flapped her wings once, and sent... a light breeze at the sword mare, slightly ruffling her mane.

“Ah, so we're going to do it that way. Get her!” the bandit snapped.

Fluttershy squeaked and fell down on her stomach, flapping her wings as hard as she could as she threw her body over Spike.

“GYAHHHHHH!” the three ponies screamed. No pain came. After a few seconds the pegasus blinked as she opened her eyes, looking around. The three bandits were on the ground, their eyes little swirls and their weapons scattered.

“Did... did you do that?” Spike asked, his mouth hanging open.

“Yah all alright?” Applejack asked as she trotted out from behind a tree.

“Applejack?” Fluttershy eeked. “You're... you're...”

“A lil late, but better than never, right?” she asked with a large grin. “Heard all your trouble, couldn't resist lendin' mah hoof. Where's the rest ah your lil posse?”

“Twilights been foalnapped by a griffon!” Spike said quickly as he ran over to the earth pony, poking her in the leg just to be sure she was real. “We're on our way to rescue her.”

“Captured, eh? I guess ah better come with yah all then, help yah with this here rescue mission. More or less why ah came after all. What about all them fire benders yah were off tah save? Yah gone an' saved 'em already?”

“Oh, well, no. We were on our way but then Twilight got captured, the others are saving them now,” Spike mumbled.

“Ah see. Well, let's go!” Applejack said as she thrust her hoof into the ground and a pillar of dirt shot the dragon into the air, to land on her back. “Which way?”

“Ummm, that way,” Fluttershy squeaked. A moment later the earth pony galloped off, making the pegasus struggle to run after. “N-not so fast!”

Days passed slowly as Sweetie watched the forest with disinterest. Every tree, bush and root were slowly and painstakingly removed by her soldiers. Unfortunately, she'd already lost over a dozen soldiers to the dangers of the plants. A pony that was cutting the trees would suddenly get grabbed by vines and tugged inside. One would trip and fall into the woods, never to be seen again. The more they cut into it, the more the forest seemed to struggle to defend itself.

The unicorn was quickly losing interest in their excuses as the treeline was slowly conquered. “How can it take this long?” she growled as she watched the ponies cutting and hacking at the wildlife, from atop a small sunchair on top of her tank.

“Ehh, at least the view is good,” Scootaloo said as she sipped her lemonade. “Some of your soldiers are pretty cute.”

“Yes yes, sweaty and glistening and blah,” the princess grumbled. “But that novelty wore off by the end of day one. It's taking forever to cut through all these stupid trees! The barely even burn when we toss them in the fire!” she snapped and motioned to the massive stacks of firewood they had since gathered, most of it useless.

“Well, this just means we all have more time for the avatar tah arrive,” Flowerbloom said with a grin. “That's good, right?”

The unicorn sighed. “I suppose...” Sweetie glanced up to the pegasi who flew over the forest, on constant alert for any attackers. A few of them had been lost as well. She glanced back at the dozens of tanks and air ships that were now sitting in wait since the homeland's forces had joined up. “The largest force that the Water Nation has ever seen, and I can't just charge in and destroy the place. This is so... gah!” she kicked the top of her tank.

“Princess!” one of the shadowbolts called out as he landed in front of her and bowed his head. “A report from the right flank of the wood cutting force.”

“What? Let me guess, a tree ate one of them?”

“What? No, well, yes, but we got the tree. But that's not important! We've captured a fire bender!”

“A fire bender? Then they are here!” Sweetie shrieked as she got to her hooves. “Take me to them, immediately!”

“At once,” the pegasus said as he offered his back. She shook her head and jumped from the tank, running along the ground.

Her friends glanced to each other and gulped. “Should we go with her?” Scootaloo asked nervously.

“Ah... ah don't think I wanna see this,” Flowerbloom responded with a nervous gulp. The pegasus nodded in agreement as they turned worried eyes towards the disappearing princess.

The princess soon stood in front of a green unicorn. “So, you're a fire bender?” she asked in delight.

“Yes,” a nearby water bender said. “He wasn't alone, however. The other escaped. We caught them spying on us.”

Sweetie growled as she shook her head. “So they know we're here?”

“You'll never take us!” the fire bender suddenly yelled. “We'll fight you, every last one of you! The sun will rise forever! We won't just-mrfff!” his mouth was quickly covered in ice.

“Interesting, loud though,” the princess mumbled as she circled him. “Why isn't his horn covered?”

“I've already disabled it,” Caballeron said as he walked over and bowed. “At least, temporarily. He should be unable to bend for a few hours. I did not know how you wished to treat him, otherwise.”

She nodded. “Good. Have his horn encased and bound up. Don't cut it, yet. We may need it later.”

“As you wish,” the earth pony said as he called some of his soldiers over to perform the task.

“Double the pegasi in the air as well. If any of those ponies make a run for it, I want them captured. Do I make myself clear?” she asked firmly.

The stallion nodded. “As you wish. I will see to it myself.”

“Good. Now,” Sweetie said as she glanced into the sky, towards the sun. “Admire the sun, while you can. Today may be the last time it is ever seen.”

“Weeeee!” Twilight shrieked as she held her wings open and felt the air glide around her feathers. She stood on the bow of a large pirate ship, one of three heading through the air towards the east.

“Will you knock that off?” Rarity snapped angrily. “You're like a child.”

“Interesting you should mention that,” Celestia said with a gentle smirk. “I seem to recall a young princess standing on the bow with her little wind chimes.”

The princess glared at the elder mare, her cheeks scarlet. “That, that was different! I was a child, I thought it was fun!”

“You were quite adorable. In fact, I have pictures. Avatar, would you like to see?”

“No, she would not!”

“I'd love to!” Twilight said with a chuckle as she trotted down from the bow towards the elder unicorn. Within moments the two were giggling at the small beat up pictures. “How did they get so damaged?”

“We have been on the road a long time, my niece and I,” the unicorn mumbled as she glanced up to look at her flustered niece.

“I can't believe you held onto those,” Rarity grumbled. “Can't believe they survived...”

“Well, I make sure to take care of all things I treasure. It's why I always watch out so closely for you.”

Her face turned even redder as she darted to the bow. “Well... I... whatever! Hmph! Just... just hmph!”

“Ponies off the port side!” a voice ran out.

“What?” Twilight eeked as she darted to the bow, accidentally scattering the photos. She stared over the side, looking around wildly. “Is it possible we're there already? But it's only been a... a... huh?” her face fell as she saw two ponies and a dragon down below. “Oh, it's just Spike, Fluttershy and Pinkie.” After a few moments her eyes bulged. “Wait, what? Those are my friends! Quick, go down! Get them! I mean, pick them up! Those are my friends!”

Rarity groaned as the alicorn jumped off the side of the ship. “Great, just what we need, three of them. Are you sure this is worth it, aunty?”

“It depends really on how much you value your little sisters innocence, dear niece,” Celestia murmured as she neatly bound the pictures in twine before sliding them under her cloak.

“A yes would have sufficed...” she grumbled as the ships slowed and two griffons jumped off to help bring the three up.

Sweetie giggled with glee as she trotted around the camp. Fires blazed fiercely outside each tent, giving their glow to light the night. Large cages had been set up, which were quickly filling with fire benders who tried, and failed, to escape in the darkness. Unfortunately, the last had been captured hours ago.

“Ah, your highness!” Caballeron said as he trotted up besides her. “I'm sorry to say that no more fire benders have been caught. They seem to be too afraid to attempt an escape.”

“That's wonderful!”

“Your highness?” he asked nervously.

“Oh, I know. It's a shame that no more are being captured, but that just means they're too afraid to run. They'll just wait, patiently in their homes, until we break them down. How much longer do you think that would take, hmm?”

“Errr, I'm not sure. We have soldiers working around the clock, but our tools are being damaged far faster than we though. We have all non-cutting units working on repairing the tools, but it's a slow process. I calculate within two days we'll run out at this pace.”

She hmphed, before shaking her head. “And the water benders? Are they having any success?”

“Oh, I uhhh... I don't have many working on it. They've been conserving their energy and well...” he shuffled his hooves as he hung his head.

She cocked an eye as she stopped and glanced to him. “What is it?”

“I shouldn't bother your highness, it is nothing. I'll deal with it.”

“Tell me,” she said as gently as she could.

“Well, since I'm an earth pony, most of your water benders-”

“Ah, say no more. Where are these unicorns?” she asked in a sickeningly sweet tone.

The stallion gulped and, with a slow nod, lead her through the camp. They soon arrived at a large bundle of tents focused together, filled with unicorns drinking, eating, sleeping or chatting away. She let out a whistle as they all went quiet. She glanced around and sighed. “Who is the commander of this unit?”

“That would be me,” a mare said as she stepped forward. “I was designated temporary general after the disappearance of general Trixie. My name is... huh?” the mare trailed off as a number of unicorns began to quickly trot away, hanging their heads. The young princess recognized them as a few of the soldiers she had been traveling with. “As I was saying. I'm Icemane. How may I serve you, princess?”

“Well, I was curious to know why you and the rest of the unicorns weren't working on the trees as well. I gave the commander instructions to have ponies working on it twenty-four seven, and yet your lot has decided to not perform such tasks.”

The mare snorted. “With all due respect, your highness, that's earth pony work. Moving heavy things, cutting down trees, that's harvest work. Having us perform such menial tasks is below us. Besides, we have more than enough of his kind,” she motioned to Caballeron, “from these colonies.”

“I see, I see,” she nodded as her horn glowed. Icemane just smirked knowingly at the earth pony commander, which quickly disappeared as she found her front hooves ripped out from under her. She collapsed at Sweetie's hooves, who glared down at her.

“It seems you misunderstood something,” the princess growled as she stepped forward and slammed a hoof against the general's horn, quickly pinning it to the ground and holding it there. “When I give an order, such as everypony works on clearing the trees, I mean everypony. Even when the orders are filtered through an earth pony. Now, let me make this perfectly clear so anypony doesn't misunderstand.” She looked up as she applied more pressure to the horn, eliciting a scream from the mare as it began to sparkle and crack. “You will be working on the trees as long as I, or the commander I've put in charge,” she motioned to the earth pony, “say so. You can either use your bending, or I can personally MAKE you an earth pony. Do you understand?”

A loud scream filled the air as the tip of Icemane's horn finally cracked off, leaving a jagged remain. The other unicorns spared each other looks, before running towards the wood cutters. Sweetie looked down. “Go find a healer and have them reattach your horn. Until it heals, you'll use an axe like the other earth ponies. Do I make myself clear?”

The mare quickly nodded, before gripping the tip in her mouth and running away. Caballeron stood, his mouth open. “I doubt you'll have any more troubles. If you do, inform me,” Sweetie said as she turned back towards her tank.

“O-of course your majesty,” he squeaked out, staring at her with admiration.

“You going to be okay?” Spike asked as he trotted out to the sail of their air ship, holding two warm mugs of cocoa. Applejack had done her best to wrap her entire body around it.

“A-ah'll be fine once this darn thing l-lands...” she mumbled.

“Did you even get any sleep?” he asked as he held out the other mug. She took it and nervously sipped the liquid.

“A lil. Shouldn't you be in bed?”

“Already did. Woke up early...” he mumbled as he sipped his and looked out towards the night sky. “I... thought I did. Huh... that's weird.”

“What's EEEK!” she shrieked as they hit a small batch of turbulence and she hurtled her mug and grabbed the pole. The beverage flew onto Spike's head as he glowered. “Don't fall to our deaths, don't fall to our deaths!”

“Thanks for that,” Spike grumbled as he wiped the cocoa from his face.

“Good morning! What are you two doing up so early?” Twilight asked as she trotted out onto the deck.

“Ah never shoulda let yah bring me onto this flyin' death trap!” Applejack yelled.

“Will you keep it down?!” a griffon, with a steel beak, yelled as he popped out from behind Twilight. “Some of the crew are still tryin' tah sleep. Why the lot of yah even awake?”

“Woke up early,” Spike said with a shrug.

“Me too. Sorry Steel Beard... though, I still need to ask you about your beard...” Twilight mumbled as she glanced at the beardless griffon. “How long until the sun comes up?” she asked as she looked around. “That's strange...”

The dragon twitched as realization dawned on him. “Oh. T-that's right. The moon, it's-”

“Gone,” the alicorn squeaked as she fell down on her flank in shock. “It's time for the sun. But, the sun isn't...”

“Rising,” the griffon finished as the gathered creatures turned their heads towards the night sky, the stars the only things to greet them.

Chapter 17: Immense Opposition

Sweetie smiled as she stared at the cowering ponies, locked in their cages with their horns tightly bound. The fire benders whimpered helplessly as they watched her, sitting as far as they could. “Easy, my little fiery darlings,” the princess said as she moved around. “I have no intentions of killing you, if you obey.”

“You might as well! You monster!” one pony yelled, though he quickly cowered as her gaze fell on him.

“There is no longer any need or desire for your kind in this world,” the princess said as she paced back and forth. “The sun has no place in our sky, only the moon. Now, we offer you acceptance into our nation. After a quick removal of your horn, an... albeit, painful operation, you will be tended to and cared for, until you can work in our colonies. Some of you I see already lack horns, and can be put to works as one of our subjects.”

“We'll never work for you! You're monsters!” a mare yelled out, though she quickly backed away as the unicorn's eyes turned to her.

“Monsters? No. We're merely the victors,” Sweetie said as her eyes glowed a dark purple. “We are strong, powerful. Your weak country now stands as little more than a few dozen uncaptured trembling cowards. The sun hasn't risen in days, and the countries have done nothing but shake in their homes. The Air Nomads are already almost completely demolished, with only a single mediocre force that remains. The only country that even holds a semblance of power anymore is the Earth Kingdom, and they can't even hope to fight off this force. Nothing can, or will save you. Before long you'll all fall to our side, and your precious avatar will fall by my hoof soon after. I'm merely being generous allowing you a chance to be on the winning side... whether you like it, or not.”

“We'll never join you, we'll fight until-” Suddenly the cage shook as a loud clang rang through the air. A pegasus laid on top, her eyes little swirls after her painful crash. After a few moments more pegasi crashed into the ground around them, eliciting startled shrieks from the camping ponies.

The princess looked up as blue streaks tore through the night, sending the Water Nation pegasi to the ground as they passed. “The wonderbolts? What are they...” her head turned to the right as her eyes widened. “Stop them, you fools!”

The powerful air benders flew in perfect V formation, Rainbow Dash leading the charge. The air shattered around them as the pegasi combined their bending into one massive arrow of wind. Their speed picked up as they flew, the blurs sending any pegasus that came close hurtling to the ground. Spikes of ice flew through the air at them, but they nimbly moved from side to side, covering each other with their bending. Finally, the air benders tore through the back of the camp, plunging in and out of the first air ship's balloon as their powerful current made the ships shake and tear at their anchors. The pegasi split into two smaller Vs, Rainbow's plunging through the balloons while the second tore through decks, bursts of slicing wind cutting through rigging. Within a matter of seconds the entirety of the air fleet crashed to the ground and the wonderbolts took to the sky and turned back the way they came, disappearing into the night.

“Total success!” Rainbow yelled as she landed on the opposite side of the forest, a smirk on her face. “All they have now are a bunch of pegasi.”

“Good,” Sapphire said as she looked over her forces. Three pirate ships were floating a few feet off the ground, her small force that she had arrived with, the avatar and her friends and then a dozen wonderbolts. “How large were their forces?”

“Massive,” Spitfire said as she shook her head. “Even in the sky we're outnumbered at least ten to one. On ground, likely a hundred or even a thousand to one. Possibly more. I've never seen a force so large. Worst of all, they have shadowbolts. We took them by surprise this time, but another such attack will fail.”

“Are you sure you took out all their ships?” Celestia asked.

“After that, they'll be lucky to use them as fire wood, let alone ships,” Rainbow said with a chuckle.

“How about the forest and the fire benders? How is their progress on that?” Twilight asked nervously.

“Not good...” Spitfire mumbled as she shook her head. “They had plenty of cages down there and I definitely saw ponies in them. The woods aren't holding up, they're tearing through them fast.”

“There's no telling how close they are to the village though,” Rainbow added quickly. “They're cutting blind. They could still be miles from it for all we know.”

“Unfortunately, it'll still be a few days before a proper force can arrive,” Sapphire grumbled. “Possibly longer with the lack of sun. Even then, with the forces we'll receive from Fillydelphia, we'll probably be out numbered if they are as numerous as you say. How about from Cloudsdale?”

“Our numbers are still fairly low,” Spitfire said with a sigh. “We're still recovering from the last hundred years. It'll probably take a few more days before we get a full force here as well, even then we'll likely be vastly outnumbered.”

“They'll likely launch their own attack soon,” Sapphire said as she gazed over the woods. “They can attack from the air, but that won't be an issue. But once they begin a ground assault, we'll be overrun.”

“Of course,” Twilight mumbled as she lightly prodded the ground. She looked to Celestia. “Well, you're a member of them, any plans?”

Sapphire hmphed, but didn't say a word as the elder unicorn began. “If their numbers are that vast, I'm afraid my initial plan won't work. At the moment, we must focus on defense and saving who we can. Draw as many, and defeat as many, as possible. Their only benders will be their unicorns, so we may have a chance if we can maintain our distance. Our first step must be to gain power over the skies.”

“As much as I hate to say it,” the commander growled. “She's right. These woods are the only thing stopping them from launching a full assault. The more air control we have, the more we can stall them and get your ponies out of there.”

“Speaking of,” Rainbow mumbled as she glanced to the sky. “More pegasi are coming. I can hear them.”

“Okay!” Sapphire got to her hooves and motioned towards the air. “They've readied a counter! I want a partial dome of stone and obstacles around the ships. If they want to dive at us or do their fancy flying, I want them to have a bad day,” she yelled as her soldiers got to work. “Air benders, keep near the ships until we see how many there are. It'll be your job to take down any stragglers or those that try to escape. Pirates, you'll-”

“Ah don't take orders from no fancy earth bender!” Steel Beard snapped as he spread his wings. “Come on, boys! We're gonna keep our ships safe. If any of those fancy fliers think they'll hurt our babies, they have another thing coming.”

The commander sighed before motioning to the air. “Very well. Avatar, air benders. Keep near the ships. I'll keep the ground forces handled and do what I can from here, I'll trust you to watch out for them and keep our few vehicles of air superiority from being destroyed. You!” she glanced to Rarity and Celestia. “Just... keep in the back and don't touch anything. We don't need any puddle splashers getting in our way.”

“Why you arrogant, foul mannered- mmf!” Rarity growled as her aunt wrapped a hoof around her neck and pulled her away.

“Very well, commander. As you wish. Come along, niece,” Celestia said as she dragged the mare back.

The sound of flapping wings soon filled the air as pegasi flew through the air from the east. The sound of their wings were like a hurricane, racing towards them at breakneck speeds. The ground forces quickly formed a curved shield in the front. Long, tall pillars of stone burst from the air to surround the ships. “Get ready!”

Twilight frowned as she heard the forces coming closer, but she couldn't make them out aside from stars occasionally being blocked. A small ball of flame gathered at the tip of her horn, before she sent it flying through the air and detonating like a firework. The pegasi scattered as the light finally illuminated their bodies. Dozens of pegasi were caught in the light of the blast, a fair distance from their camps torchlight. “Sapphire! I need something I can light, we need to be able to see them!”

“On it!” the earth bender yelled. After a few moments a massive pillar shot into the air, towering over the balloons. “Light 'er up!”

“I... err, okay!” the alicorn yelled as flames shot out from her horn and enveloped the pillar. Light soon spread out as small black stones within the pillar caught on fire. The pegasi tore around the pillars as her eyes widened. The first group charged forward as she, and the other air benders, took to the sky and created a powerful wall of wind to block them. The army didn't stop, crashing into it and being cast aside from the blast as more struggled through the powerful winds.

“Keep going!” Rainbow yelled as she flapped her wings as hard as she could. Her eyes widened and she twisted around. “Behind us!” she screamed as she turned around and sent a powerful blast towards their back. The shadowbolt dodged to the right around it, before charging into the blue pegasus. Before the speedster could react, the Water Nation stallion thrust a hoof to each side of the mare's wings. Rainbow let out a cry as her wings locked up and her bending ceased. She started to fall, but her front hooves gripped the shadowbolt as she went and drove him into the ship as they crashed. As the stallion laid, dazed, she drove her hooves into his face repeatedly until he went limp.

Rainbow quickly looked around, frowning as the others weren't fairing much better. A few wonderbolts had already fallen, but fortunately the comrades on the ship were helping. Unfortunately, their wings were being disabled. Already one of the ships were being attacked by the superior numbers of the pegasi, as its crew struggled to fight them off.

Then, the stars disappeared. A wall seemed to materialize out of nowhere, blocking the ship and most of the forces out, while trapping her, the crew, a few wonderbolts and some of the Water Nation ponies inside. Soarin suddenly slammed into the deck besides her, pinned by four non-shadowbolt pegasi. She charged in, tackling the closest into its comrade before turning and bucking another under the chin. The fallen wonderbolt quickly gripped and reversed positions with his remaining attacker as she charged the two who were still off balance. A few quick blows and they were down for the count.

The mare let out a cry as she was suddenly tackled from behind, a hoof striking against her back three times, as her hooves went limp. A second later the shadowbolt jumped away as a blade tried to cleave him in two, one of the pegasus pirates moving over her. “How yah holdin' up?” he hissed out around the weapon.

“Can't move,” she growled. “I don't know what they did, but my hooves and wings won't move.”

“Come on, yah buncha daisies! Time tah finish them off!” Steel Beard yelled as he charged forward, cutlass in hand. The night reappeared as the walls around the ship collapsed. Almost instantly the remaining forces of the Water Nation took to the air. Rainbow groaned as Soarin helped her to her hooves.

“Come on, let's get you looked at,” he said as he moved to consolidate her with the rest of their forces.

“This is not good,” Twilight whispered as she looked over the forces, many of who were being tended by Fluttershy and Spitfire.

“Seventeen of them, captured or dead,” Sapphire grumbled. “Meanwhile, we have over a third of our forces wounded, eight of the pirates killed, three of mine dead, and look,” she waved a hoof towards the ships. One was now crumbled to the ground, the wood shattered and balloon cut to pieces. “This was just their scouting force.”

“It's worse than that,” Soarin said as he trotted up. “Over two-thirds of our air benders have been disabled. We need to move, and fast. Another attack like that and we're dead. This night is only making things worse, we can't see any of them like this. The only good news is how many slammed into those stone pillars.”

Twilight sighed as she looked down. “Maybe we-”

“Okay, enough,” Sapphire snapped as she turned to the ships. “You, Steel Beard. Get your ships out of here. As it is, we can't afford to defend them again, but we do need them. Move them farther to the west and cover in the forest lands.”

“I don't take orders from no earth pony,” the griffon snapped.

“Then start,” she said as she looked around. “We need to move fast if we're to have any chance. Their air control is better, so we need to not be here when they return. You, water bender, you know their general plans of operation, correct?” she asked as she motioned to Celestia.

“Yes. They'll likely prepare a second assault now that our forces are known. Ground forces are probably already on the way,” the elder unicorn said gently. “What exactly is your plan?”

“Easy. We're not going to be here when they arrive. Soldiers, we're going underground!”

“Wait, we can't go under the forest!” Twilight exclaimed. “It's-”

“We won't be,” the commander snapped. “We're going to lay some traps. A full on fight against them is suicide, so we're not going to fight that way.” She glanced to the griffon. “Are you going or not? Do you want your ships to be torn limb from limb? Followed by you?”

Steel Beard turned and growled towards Celestia. “Pay better be worth it...”

“Your highness,” Shadowblade, leader of the shadowbolts, said as she bowed her head. “We grounded one of their ships, but the other two remained strong when we departed. However, their forces are weak. It shouldn't take more than a fraction of our forces to overwhelm them.”

“And the avatar? Was she with them?” Sweetie asked as she leaned over the tank.

The pony gulped as she slowly nodded. “In... indeed. However, one of the attack force noticed something else. It could be wrong, but they seemed quite certain.”

“Hm? What is it?” Sweetie asked with a mildly annoyed sigh.

“They believe they saw your sister, and your aunt. Gathered by the earth benders, they-”

“MY SISTER?!” the princess yelled as she jumped from the tank and gripped the pegasus around the neck. “Who? Where? Bring this pony to me immediately!”

The mare gulped, and nodded to one of the stallions, a non-shadowbolt. “I only saw her for a moment, but I saw two ponies who resembled them closely,” the stallion mumbled with a blush. “I only recognized them due to their white coats standing out so well in the night, and I used to see pictures of them when I was... younger...”

Sweetie just stared as a massive grin formed across her lips. “Of course. My sister is here to revel in my triumph! I should have known! She-”

“Might be working with the avatar,” Shadowblade said.

The young unicorn frowned, before backhoofing the other mare across the face. “My sister is OBVIOUSLY trying to trick the avatar into lowering her guard. I will not have any pony speaking ill of her loyalty, do I make myself clear?”

The pegasus quickly nodded her head. “O-of course. My apologies. Shall I gather another force to attack?”

“Oh, no no no. If my aunt is with them, they'll be expecting that...” the mare rubbed her hooves together. “Shadowbolts, I want all of you gathered. You are to track them down and, if the opportunity presents itself, capture my sister.” She paused for a moment. “I suppose, capture the avatar as well.”

“Of... of course, your highness. We'll leave immediately,” the pegasus said as she turned and took to the sky.

“Your highness? What would you like us to do?” Caballeron asked nervously.

“Isn't it obvious?” she asked with a roll of her eyes. “Prepare the other pegasi for their own assaults. Surround the forest as best you can. Earth ponies and benders are to continue cutting through those trees. If they don't manage to capture those two, well... we'll force them out.”

“Of course,” the stallion said with a bow of his head before turning to leave.

“Mwa ha ha ha ha,” Sweetie laughed with delight.

“See, I told you she'd do the laugh. You owe me three bits,” Scootaloo said with a chuckle.

“Ah, that's not fair! We didn't know her sis was gonna be here!” Flowerbloom whined.

“Too bad, so sad,” the pegasus said as she held out a hoof.

“You two do realize I can hear you, right?” Sweetie snapped.

“Eeyup,” the earth pony said as she dropped the bits in her friends hooves. “Double or nothing? Bet she squeals Rarity's name when we she her.”

“You're on!”

“Ughhhhhh!” the unicorn groaned with a roll of her eyes as she trotted away.

“Avatar!” a voice rang out through the night, catching the alicorn by surprise. She turned towards the sound, but all she could see were trees.

“Errr, hello?” she asked softly as she stepped closer. “Are... are you the spirit of the forest?”

“... No,” a-red coated pony said as she slowly stepped from the trees, her blue mane blowing in the night's breeze. “I don't know if you re-”

“Ashmane!” the alicorn shrieked as she hugged the mare and nearly toppled her over. “You're okay!”

“Of... of course. We have been waiting for your appearance, ever since we heard of this impending attack,” the mare said as she looked towards the forest. “I can lead you back, but not so many at once.”

“Don't worry about leading us back,” Sapphire said quickly. “For now our main plan is extraction. Start sending your ponies here and we'll get them safe.”

“I... I see. I'm sorry to say that many have already been captured,” the mare said as she hung her head. “We heard of the impending attack from a... fire bender we thought long gone.”

“Colgate?” Rarity asked.

Every head whipped around to her. “What? I meet ponies sometimes! I don't just spend all my time chasing you around!” the princess objected.

“Err... I don't believe we've met so... anyway,” Ashmane nodded. “Colgate returned and warned us. We attempted to spy on them, but some of our scouts were captured. We've been holding in our small home, but they draw every closer. The forest fights them, but it cannot forever. It is only a matter of time before they have captured us all. Some have ran in fear, but I don't know if any escapes. Avatar, we need your help more than ever.”

Twilight nodded. “Of course. We'll work on evacuating everypony we can. Once that is finished, we'll free the captives. I give my word, I will not allow them to remain prisoners.”

“Good. I will bring whoever you decide, but they control the skies,” the earth pony said as she looked up. “Even now they could be watching us...”

“Don't worry. We have that settled,” Sapphire grinned. “Avatar, take one of my earth benders with you. When you return, they'll be able to find us no problem. Getting the entire batch of you fancy benders out will be no problem. This will all go sensationally!”

“Now hold on just one ah your fancy minutes,” Applejack snapped as she raised a hoof. “Ah didn't come all the way out here jus' tah sit around an' hide. If any pony is comin' with the avatar, it's me. 'Sides, ah can earth bend just as well as any ah your soldiers.”

Rarity gently prodded the ground. “I... I'm coming too! Not because I care or anything, but because I'm not letting you out of my sight until this is over,” she snapped at Twilight. “And I kinda wanna maybe just a little bit see if Colgate is okay. But mostly the keeping an eye on you thing!”

The avatar slowly nodded. “I... I see. Very well then. Commander,” she said as she looked to the sensational mare. “I believe I'll take Rainbow, Applejack and Rarity with me. Between the four of us, we should have enough information and skills to deal with anything the Water Nation may try. Fluttershy, Pinkie, Spike, please keep helping the hurt. Just focus on defenses and hiding, we'll find you as soon as we're out.”

Sapphire nodded. “Very well, then-”

“Oh!” the young princess said as she turned to the commander. “In case anything goes wrong, I must say this now,” she took a deep breath. “While I think you are quite rude, loud, and upsetting... I also think the outfit you're wearing is simply marvelous, though I do believe it could use a bit more sparkle. Have you considered adding a few more rubies to it? I think you'd look absolutely stunning!”

“Err, well, thank you. Um, well, I do admit I've always considered something like that,” Sapphire said as she looked down at her outfit. “But the emperor tells me I shouldn't be so visible. As a-.”

“Nonsense! Why, with the right fabrics and jewels I could make you an outfit that... what?” she trailed off as the other ponies just stared at her.

Twilight shook her head. “Nothing... let's just go. Come on.”

Rarity sighed and slowly trotted after them, pouting a little. “I bet you could make the best dress!” Spike said quickly.

The princess smiled and gave him a small pat on the head. “Thank you, darling.”

“They couldn't have just disappeared...” Shadowblade said as she looked around the empty fields. Not a single torch remained.

“Perhaps they retreated?” one of her soldiers offered.

“I hope not,” the pegasus mumbled as she slowly flew through the night, her wings silent. “If they did, her highness will be furious at the lost opportunity to capture her sister...”

“... Permission to speak freely?” the soldier asked again.

“Granted.”

“Are you sure we should even try to capture the banished princess? With all due respect, her highness seems to be flying in the face of Nightmare Moon's orders. If we do capture her and bring her back, won't that be returning her to the kingdom?”

“In a manner, yes,” the mare said with a nod. “However, Sweetie is the future ruler of this kingdom. If she wishes to capture and imprison her elder sister, then it is our duty to obey until told otherwise. And, if she wishes to capture both the avatar and her sister, allowing the dishonored princess to return... we will do whatever it takes to accomplish her goal. Even if it costs us our lives. Understand?”

“Of course, sir,” the stallion mumbled. “I did not mean to question your directions.” Slowly the shadowbolts landed in the grass, their hooves making barely a sound as they landed.

“I don't like this,” another mumbled.

“Keep quiet. If you feel anything, move,” Shadowblade whispered as she slowly walked. “Look for any hints of their direction, but keep in groups of three. They are all benders, so there is no telling where they could be.”

“Except in the air, right?” one asked with a snicker. “I really thought the wonderbolts would put up a better fight. Don't see how they- grk!” the mare fell silent as she found a hoof pressed to her throat.

“Never underestimate those benders,” the captain hissed. “We were created solely to counter them. There would be no need if they weren't a credible threat. We-” Her ears twitched as she froze. A moment later she took to the air, the others following after them. As they left the ground, it suddenly opened under them as lashes of dirt attempted to grip them, but they were already to far away. “Spread out and keep off the dirt. Don't allow them to strike and keep your positions quiet. Teams of three. Go,” she ordered as the pegasi nodded and then spread out, melding into the night.

“The forest hasn't changed much,” Ashmane said as she slowly lead them through the woods. “Though you four best keep close. With so many it is... quite easy to get lost.”

“It's a... mighty interestin' place yah got here,” Applejack mumbled as she slowly stepped around a quilled plant. “Never been licked by a flower before...”

“Just be thankful it only wanted a taste,” the other earth pony said with a sigh.

“How many ponies still remain?” Twilight asked nervously.

“Not enough. We can no longer raise the sun like this...” Ashmane said as she lowered her head. “We lack the power needed for such a difficult task. I am afraid that-”

“No. I didn't mean because of that,” the avatar said as she trotted after her. “I need to know how long it'll take to get every pony out of here. I have a new home for you. An impenetrable fortress, Fillydelphia. The emperor has agreed to allow all of you to stay there. Once we get every pony here out, we'll focus on the prisoners.”

“With proper cover, we could get every pony out in a few hours in small groups.”

“That won't work,” Rarity said quickly.

“But-” Twilight started.

“Just listen, avatar. The moment my sister catches wind of us escaping, that's it. These woods are huge, on hoof. The pegasi don't take that long to traverse them. If you start sliding ponies out of the forest, every pegasi in the army will descend on you like... like...”

“A psychotic unicorn bent on regaining her honor at any cost?” Rainbow offered with a smirk.

“... Yes,” Rarity grumbled as she looked to the alicorn. “We have two ships still, hiding. If we could get everypony to them, it would be easy to get them out. But, we need to distract their main force and... and then some if we want to rescue the prisoners.” She took a deep breath. “In order to have any chance we'll have to... oh gosh,” she face hoofed.

“What? What's wrong?”

“My... my aunt's plan. She was right, wouldn't work with this many numbers on their side but... oh by the stars,” she groaned as she leaned against the tree. “This might work, if I know anything about my sister, this might work. But oh by the heavens above it makes me sick just thinking about YOU doing it.”

“What? What is it? Tell me!” the alicorn squealed as she hopped a few feet. “Is it good? Is it bad? Can we use it to save every pony?”

“Ugh... we're going to need to get as many ponies out of here, as quick as we can. Would it be possible to get them all out?” Rarity asked Ashmane as she ignored the avatar. “If everypony left at once, together. Could we get them all out?”

“It... it would be quite dangerous. Large groups through these woods are-”

“Can it be done?” the unicorn interrupted.

“With... with difficulty, I suppose.”

“Yah gonna tell us what your fancy plan is before or after Twilight goes and lights your mane on fire?” Applejack asked with a snort.

The princess groaned and shook her head. “Easy. My sister wants me and you want your tribe back. I'm going to have to," the mare choked on the word, "b-be your... ugh... hostage.”

“Hah! That's awesome!” Rainbow added with a chuckle.

Chapter 18: Planned Confrontation

Twilight held her breath as she looked out into the empty field ahead of her. Rarity, Ashmane, Rainbow and Applejack stood besides her, all standing around and waiting nervously. “I don't see anything,” the alicorn whispered as she peered out from the forest.

“Well, we'd best be certain,” the fallen princess whispered back. “Everypony back there is waiting for us, if we fall into an ambush now, that's it. You lose.”

“I know that!” Twilight hissed as she slowly stepped forward, out from the trees. The earth bender followed after her a moment later, as did the pegasus. “I don't think anything is here. We just need to find Sapphire and- agh!” she let out a shriek as she was tackled. Rainbow's wings flapped immediately, sending a powerful burst of wind outwards to send the attacker flying. The alicorn's horn lit up as she sent flames into the air, revealing the three shadowbolts.

“Keep your distance, don't let them touch you,” Rainbow said quickly. “If they get close, they'll take out our bending.”

“Gotcha,” Applejack said as the three joined flank to flank, readying themselves for the attack. “How many yah think there are?”

Twilight's horn glowed with a bright, white light as she looked around. “Two now. More are probably on their way. Get ready...”

“Gotcha!” Rainbow said as she suddenly broke from her comrades.

“Rainbow! Don't!” the alicorn shrieked as the hot-headed pegasus charged towards the two. She quickly dove around the left and sent a sudden burst at the two fliers, knocking them back towards the trees.

“Air bender!” the nearer shadowbolt called. “Don't think just because- AYYYYYE!” she screamed as flames enveloped their backs. Another sudden burst of wind and the two were sent into the grass, where they were quickly dragged into the ground.

“That was very reckless!” Twilight snapped as the pegasus landed.

“Hey, that's two less to deal with. Besides, I never let them get close,” she smirked as she spat off to the side. “So, what next?”

“Found 'em!” Applejack said as she tapped the ground. “Ain't no way they'll miss this lil bit of earth bendin'.” She struck the ground once, making it shake for a moment.

“Really? That's all?” Rainbow asked with a cocked eyebrow.

“It's mostly underground,” the cowpony hmphed. “They atta be here soon.”

“Then we better get moving,” Rarity said quickly as she broke from the trees. “More of the shadowbolts will be here soon, and we don't want them to see this. We need to draw them out and give them our little show.”

“If we leave, how will they find us?” Twilight asked.

“Trust me, they'll find us,” the princess said as she started to trot away. “Now, come on! You do want the ponies to get out of here safely, don't you?”

“Fine,” the alicorn mumbled as the four started trotting away, quickly. Her horn glowed with a fierce light, lighting the way as they scanned the sky for any sign of the flying threats. “What if they didn't go this way?”

“We're close to the forest,” Rarity said as she motioned towards the treeline. “They're bound to be searching along the borders to find us. Once they do, they won't hesitate to- gah!” she let out a cry as she was slammed into from the side. A pegasus stood over her, hoof raised, but was suddenly shot into the air by a pillar of dirt. The other three ponies circled her as Twilight sent bursts of fire into the sky, lighting it up. Over a dozen shadowbolts flew about, their trained wings flapping silently as their uniforms blended into the night.

“Well, looks like we're gonna have a good ol' fashioned brawl,” Applejack said as she spit off to the side. “Yah gonna be okay there, princess? Hate tah see yah chip your hoof.”

“Hmph. I'll be just fine you... ruffian!” Rarity said as she got to her hooves, eyes quickly looking about. “Just keep your distance from them,” she said as her horn glowed and water burst forth from a canteen at her side.

“So, princess Rarity, you are a traitor,” a voice billowed out from the shadowbolts.

“Not at all. You just can't yet see what it is I have planned,” she hmphed. “I'm doing this for the Water Nation... even if it doesn't seem that way to you.”

“If you were truly a member of the Water Nation, you'd be helping us now.”

“Now,” Twilight whispered under her breath.

Rarity nodded as she whipped around, the water coiling into a whip to wrap around Twilight's neck. The alicorn let out a shriek as she stumbled backwards, pulled by the watery tendril. The shadowbolts broke into a dive the moment the flames died out, but Rainbow flapped her wings rapidly, sending a twister of air straight up, forcing the pegasi to spread out or risk being sucked in. Applejack stomped her hoof as a spike of rock jutted up, severing the whip. Two more pillars shot out on either side of the unicorn, crashing together.

Twilight coughed, rubbing at her neck as she glared back at the princess. “D-did you have to be so rough?” she hissed as her horn came alight again, blazing so brilliantly the shadowbolts could be seen just on the edge.

“I knew we couldn't trust her! The moment her friends come along, bam, she turns on us!” Rainbow snapped, her wings stopping their powerful breeze for a moment. She looked around and gulped. “There's more of them...”

“Ah say we crush her an' 'em and get outa here 'fore more reinforcements arrive,” Applejack snapped as she stomped her hoof. The dirt latched onto the unicorn and began squeezing, eliciting a scream from the mare.

“LET ME GO!” Rarity screamed. “What are you fools doing? Help me! There's only these three, they- eep!” A rock covered her mouth, muting her words.

“Yah all try anything,” Applejack snapped. “And your lil princess here's gonna be a mite thinner.”

“Like we care,” a pegasus called out as they dived. The earth pony stomped a hoof as a large rock shot out and moved to crush Rarity's head.

“Wait! Pull back!” a voice yelled out, the rock stopping centimeters from the princess's skull. The unicorn stared at the rock, her eyes nearly bulging out of her head. The shadowbolts quickly veered off, flying just outside of range. “What are your conditions?” one of them asked as the mare flew down, landed a few feet from them. Shadowblade.

“You're willing to negotiate then?” Twilight asked as she looked around, the glow from her horn dimming as she breathed a sigh of relief.

“For now,” the pegasus growled.

“My terms are simple,” the alicorn said with a smile. “I want you to pull your forces back and stop attacking the forest. Leave my kinsmen alone. Also, in exchange for her,” she motioned to the unicorn. “I want all the captured fire benders back.”

“Impossible! How do we know you won't crush her head the moment we give them, we-”

“Those are my terms,” Twilight interrupted. “If your commander would like to negotiate, I will meet her to the north of her encampment. But, she must stop her attacks on the forest immediately! If any more fire benders are captured, the deal is off. I'll meet her within two days.”

The pegasus growled before she turned. “Wait!” Rainbow called out.

“What do you want, avatar's servant?” the shadowbolt asked with condescension.

“I don't trust any of you, but remember we still have your little princess. If we find any of your pegasi trying to spy on us, we're taking them out.”

“Of course,” Shadowblade said as she took to the air. Many of the others joined her as they made their way back to the younger princess. A grin slowly formed on her lips as she prepared to give her report.

“-and in two days she said she'll head north to meet you,” Shadowblade said as she looked up at the princess.

“Of course,” Sweetie said as she nodded, a grin on her lips. “Now, tell me, what is your opinion of these terms?”

“Obviously they hope to delay us to allow time for them to escape the woods. It'll take two days for all to escape, during which she hopes we'll stop cutting through the forest. She's becoming desperate.”

“Do you think she'll kill my sister?”

The mare frowned as her gaze lowered and she rubbed her chin. “I... do not believe she would. Unfortunately, this avatar has many friends. While she would not, I am certain there would be many in her faction who would, if it came to that. However, I believe they are desperate for those we captured, and will meet with us no matter how many more we capture.”

Sweetie slowly nodded as she glanced to the cages. With a soft sigh she turned back to the shadowbolt. “Very well. We will make the trade as requested. Caballeron!”

“Your majesty?” the earth pony stepped forward.

“Gather the greatest water benders and earth ponies here. I don't care if they're from the Water Nation or the colonies. Have your pegasi try to monitor what the avatar is up to. Then, have all tanks prepared. Shadowblade, call back and gather all your shadowbolts.”

“What are you planning?” Scootaloo asked nervously.

“We're going to give the avatar what she wants,” the unicorn said with a little smile. “The destruction of the forest will continue. Can't let the avatar think things are going too smoothly for her, now can we?”

She turned and walked away, her friends on either side of her. “Can you believe this?” one of the unicorn soldiers whispered to his comrade. “Look at that, treating that earth pony and pegasus as if they're our equals.”

“It's probably just a farce,” the other unicorn whispered. “Once we capture the avatar, she'll dispose of him. No reason she'd ever let a lowly creature like that stay in power for too long.”

“Something you two wanna say?” Caballeron snapped as he walked towards them.

“No sir, we just wished to volunteer as part of the unicorn unit her highness has requested!” the first said quickly.

“We'll see. Who is the head commander of you unicorn units?”

“Err, well...” the two looked between each other for a moment. “She's uhhh, still... healing her horn. Ever since what the princess did to her, she uhhhh...”

“Of course...” Caballeron said with a sigh. He then looked the two over. “Blue coats, white, curly manes. Are you two brothers? What are your names?”

“Err, no sir. I'm Perry Pierce,” the first said as he bowed.

“I'm Pinprick,” the second said as he bowed, as well. “We're not related.”

“Ah. Very well. You two will come with me and help me find the best unicorns in the service,” the earth pony said as he walked by. The two shared nervous glances, but slowly nodded as they followed. “If you do this well, I might have some more jobs for you as well.”

The two shared looks as they walked behind the earth pony. Perry rolled his eyes and shook his head.

“Ow ow ow owwwww!” Rarity whimpered as she held her sides. “Whhhhy did you have to be so painful? This was all part of your plan! You... you barbarian!” she scowled at Applejack.

“Ah'm sorry, your highness,” the earth pony said with a roll of her eyes. “But we had tah make it believable. Yah wanna draw 'em all away, or not?”

“Ugh. I don't know how you can talk with that dreadful slang,” the unicorn grumbled as she laid her back on the small white cot she had been given. “I also don't know why I ever agreed to this plan.”

“It was your plan!” Rainbow snapped as she stomped her hoof on the wooden floor. “Ugh, I'm going to go help the wonderbolts keep an eye out for trouble.”

“Ah'm with you,” Applejack grumbled as the two left the room, slamming the door behind them.

“Soooo,” Twilight said nervously as she looked to the princess. A few feet from them Spike was busy staring with love struck eyes at the resting princess. “I don't suppose this means-”

“Nope. I'm still going to capture you and bring you home so I can return. This is an alliance of desperation, not some best friends forever group.”

“But-”

“Mark my words,” Rarity growled as she sat up. “Me and you will never. Ever. Ever be friends. No way. No how. Not enough jewels in all the countries to change my mind. Even if you were the last mare in all the kingdoms, we wouldn't be friends.”

“W-what about me?” Spike asked, his eyes starting to water.

“Err, we can be friends,” the princess said as she laid back down. “I don't need to capture you to return home, after all...”

“I don't see why you won't help us,” the alicorn said with a sigh. “You're being hurt by Discord as well. We have the same enemy, we should go-”

“I said no! I'll free my sister my way, I do not need your help. Now go away before I decide to try to capture you now and give up on this plan!”

“Fine, fine,” Twilight grumbled as she walked out from the room and sighed. She slowly navigated the halls of the ship, guided by the torch lights until she finally made it out to the deck. Her friends were already long gone as she spread her wings and flew off the ship. Now, all she had to do was wait, two days and everything would come to an end. For good, or for bad. She just wished she could shake the knot in her stomach.

“The avatar's ship is waiting,” Shadowblade said as she bowed her head to the princess, a few cycles of the moon later. Two other shadowbolts stood behind her as they kneeled in front of a long line of tanks. Cages filled with ponies rested on the backs of many of the metal constructs. Large stacks of wood were now piled around the camp, that was practically devoid of life aside from the ponies cutting trees and pegasi patrolling the sky. “We saw her ship, as well as your sister. The earth benders were there, on hoof, but their numbers are a pittance compared to our forces. As we expected.”

“Mmm hmmm,” Sweetie mumbled as she lightly tapped the roof of her tank. “Caballeron, as you were saying before?”

“Huh? Oh!” the earth pony said with a nod. “Yes, your highness. I've had pegasi scanning all the areas as expected, as well as the forest. It's as you expected, they've been slowly evacuating the forest, unfortunately my pegasi couldn't get close enough to see how many escaped, but the ponies have been moving there. The second ship was likely used to escape with those they could recover. I've already sent a force to ambush them while we deal with these negotiations. They should be arriving soon.”

“Mmm hmmm,” Sweetie mumbled as she nodded her head. “Perfect. After today, there will be no more fire benders or avatar to get in our way. Have the forest continuously cut anyway. If any remain there, they will become mine.”

“As you wish,” the stallion said as he galloped away, Pierce and Pinprick following behind.

“We depart when he returns. Step forth,” Sweetie said as the pegasus nodded. Once they came close enough the young unicorn tapped them with her glowing horn. Their dark coats and clothing began to shift as their colorations shifted to hues of red and blue. Their tight suits changed to loose garments of red, flowing around their bodies. Even their eye colors changed to match the disguise as the ponies glanced down at themselves. “Very good. Now, into the cages with you. The avatar wants you desperately,” the unicorn said with a chuckle. The three nodded before flying to one of the cages. “Every pony, prepare! For today marks not just the end of the Fire Tribes and the avatar, but the glorious return of my sister!” The ponies cheered loudly.

“What if something goes wrong?” Twilight eeked as she paced rapidly back and forth on the deck. “What if she figures out what we're up to? What if Applejack and the others aren't fast enough? What if she leaves too many soldiers home? What if they figured out what we did? What if they bring too many and we can't escape? What if- mmf!” she was cut off as a hoof suddenly covered her mouth.

“Calm, chosen one,” Celestia said as she shook her head. “You must not allow fear and anxiety to slow you down. You have a duty here, and you must keep your mind clear in order to do it.”

“R-right. Calm. Collected. What if it all goes wrong though?” she asked with a whimper.

“Then we have failed and there is nothing more we can do. The world is doomed,” the elder mare said with a shrug. “That is why you must not focus on it. Everypony is preparing, and they look to you for comfort. If you run around screaming like a child, you will destroy all moral they have left.”

“R-right. You're right. I... I'm sorry. I'm calm now,” the alicorn said with a slow, deep breath. “Do you think this will work?”

“I hope, but I do not know. Much is at stake so... it must.”

“It'll be fine,” Rarity grumbled as she came out from the inner workings of the ship, flanked on either side by the pirates. “My sister won't attack as long as you have me as a prisoner. All we need to do is delay.”

“Yes, delay...” the avatar mumbled. “Celestia? You should wait below deck with Fluttershy and Pinkie. The less they know about us, the better. You can keep an eye out through the portholes.”

Rainbow flew in and landed on the deck, a smile on her face. “Just like we figured. The shadowbolts were spying on us. We couldn't follow them all the way to the base, but they know our forces. At least, they think they do. Everypony ready?”

Twilight nodded and took a deep breath. “As ready as we ever can be. Now it's time to see how all this works... if it works.”

“Relax, Twilight,” Rainbow said with a chuckle. “What's the worst that- mmff!” the pegasus stumbled back as her mouth was frozen shut with a splash of water.

“Don't ever, ever say that,” Rarity grumbled.

The airship hovered in the sky, surrounded by the wonderbolts, as the avatar stood on the deck with the prisoner and pirates. They overlooked the massive army coming closer as she let out a low whistle. “That's a lot of ponies... look at all those metal things. What are they called?”

“Tanks,” Rarity grumbled. “They were invented by us to help counteract the physical force of earth bending. Not the hardest to stop, but very difficult to break.”

“Wonderful,” the alicorn mumbled as she watched. Her eyes went wide as a realization struck her. “They... they have the cages on the backs of those tanks! They have the tribe! They brought them!”

“That... might make things more difficult,” the unicorn mumbled.

“Ah, yah all worry too much,” Steel Beard grumbled as he rubbed his beak. “Maybe we can do an actual trade after all.”

“But what about Applejack and the others? They-”

“They'll be fine,” Rainbow said as she landed on the ground. “They think all our forces are gathered here. Judging by how many of those metal things they got, and the pegasi flying around, that's the majority of their forces alone. Worry about us, and how we're going to get out of here once we finish.”

“Okay... they're almost here,” Twilight said with a nervous gulp as she stepped forward. “Wish me luck...” she said as she jumped from the ship and began to glide down, the pegasus following after her.

“Like I'm really going to let you do this on your own,” the rainbow-maned mare said with a snicker.

The two landed on the ground as the tanks approached. Grass and dirt filled the air as the long line crossed over the field. The sheer size and quantity of the metal creations made the ground quiver as they slowly came to a screeching halt. A wall of dust flew at the two, but was quickly dispersed by a powerful flap of Rainbow's wings, sending it back at the tanks.

“Rainbow!” Twilight hissed.

“What? I'm just showing they can't shove us around. They...” The coughing from the caged ponies filled the air. “Oh... right. Oops. Sorry!” she called out.

“I swear sometimes,” the alicorn grumbled as she shook her head. A moment later one of the cockpits of the tank opened as Sweetie slowly climbed out. She gazed down at the two with a smirk on her face.

“So, avatar, I see you haven't run in fear. I trust you brought my sister?”

“Of course. I see you've brought my clansmen...” Twilight mumbled gently as she looked over the tanks. “Why have you covered their horns?”

“Because otherwise they'd have attacked us while we imprisoned them. Would you have preferred we de-horned them immediately?” the little princess slowly grinned. “If we had, would you have come so eagerly to this negotiation?”

“Point taken,” the alicorn mumbled. “So how do you wish to do this?”

“Simple. You have one ship and your... small little band of earth benders there,” she mumbled as she motioned to the earth ponies standing on the ground in the distance. “If I really wished, I could crush you like a small, tiny, insignificant grape. With you dead, this entire war would be all but over. As such, I assume you don't trust me in the slightest, no?”

“You make very valid points,” Twilight mumbled as she took a small step back. “What's your angle?”

“Simple. I'll be quite generous, since you have to have such faith in me. I'll allow you to bring your fire benders on board so you can make your little escape. In return, you swear on your honor that you will let my sister go, and do not board the ship until she has left it. I believe that is fair, no?”

“Ummm, hold on one second. I need to discuss this...” she said as she pulled Rainbow away as they flew over towards the earth benders. “She's being really... well... rational. I expected us to be negotiating longer, but I don't know if I can stall like this.”

“We need to give them some time,” Rainbow hissed as she looked around.

“Maybe it's a trick?” Sapphire offered as she glanced over the tanks. “But, she is right. They could run over us in seconds with a force that large. There's really nothing we could do to even hope to stop them. At least, not for long. Our counter will have to be perfection.”

“Hmmm... good point. Okay, I'll be right back,” Twilight said as she slowly walked back, her eyes focused on the unicorn as Rainbow fluttered along behind her.

“Okay, that sounds reasonable. However, you're right. What's to stop you from over running us the moment you have what you want? Even in the moonlight I can see your pegasi flying in the sky.”

“You're correct,” Sweetie said as she raised a hoof in the air, and then brought it down. The ponies instantly descended, landing on the tanks and leaning forward like vultures. Rainbow snickered as one of the shadowbolts missed their landing and flew off the tank, crashing into the ground.

“Wow, these guys are supposed to be a counter to the wonderbolts?” the pegasus said with a snicker.

“Yeah, but look how many there are,” Twilight whispered back as she looked their numbers over. “Even if you only counted their shadowbolts, they still have our air forces heavily outnumbered.”

“It'll be fine,” Rainbow said with a nod. “Don't worry, we can outrun them.”

“Are you two finished whispering amongst yourself, or do you need some alone time?” Sweetie snapped as her eyes narrowed.

“Oh, right, I uhhh, s-sorry,” Twilight squeaked as she plodded at the ground. “We were just... nothing. You outnumber us quite heavily, how do we know you won't betray us?”

“You don't. You'll have have to trust us. Just as I will, that you won't run off with my sister the moment you have everypony on your ship. Now, shall we?”

“I... I guess,” the alicorn squeaked. “We'll bring them up though.”

“Of course. Soldiers! Bring their cages forward and release the avatar's tribe.” Slowly the soldiers began to move from the tanks and heft the cages onto the floor. One by one the small prisons were opened and the ponies were allowed to gallop away from their captors.

“Okay, pegasi go up! I'll get the wonderbolts to come down as well,” Twilight said as she flew up, the pegasi of the fire tribe following after her. “Everything is going smoothly, for now,” the alicorn said as she stepped onto the deck. “We just need to-” she went silent as a blast of water flew by her and knocked the closest pegasus off the ship.

“Avatar, get away from them! Those are shadowbolts!” Celestia yelled as she galloped from the inner deck. The alicorn turned and jumped away, narrowly avoiding as two pegasi flew at her. A flap of her wings sent them flying back.

“Rainbow, get out of there, it's a trap!” the avatar screamed.

The scream made the pegasus take a step back as one of the earth ponies charged forward, hoof out. Rainbow took into the air instantly, scattering the disguised pegasi with a mighty flap of her wings. “How can you tell?” the pegasus asked as she flew up to the ship. “They look like those ponies to me. Aside from the charging me thing.”

“Those are shadowbolts,” Celestia hissed. “I'd know them in any form. I've seen the way they fly a hundred times, we need to get out of here!”

“Why would-” Twilight was interrupted as below they heard the ground grinding as the tanks began to move forward. “Right! Everypony, we need to act!”

The air ship began to move, going in the complete opposite direction of the tanks as Sweetie yelled. “Tanks, forward! All pegasi, take that ship down!” The tanks started forward as the fliers took to the air. The earth benders frowned as they turned to ran. “Run them down! Don't let any escape!”

Rainbow grinned as she looked over the ledge of the ship. The wonderbolts moved to guard the vessel. “Think it's about time?”

“I can't think of any better! Hold on!” Twilight said as she lowered her head. A ball of flame formed on the tip of her horn, gathering and compressing. After a few seconds she grit her teeth and flung the explosive ball into the air, away from the ship. It exploded, casting a blinding light across the sky and illuminating the pegasi as they flew up.

The ground under the tanks erupted, dirt flying into the air as the world caved in around them. Screams filled the air as the large vehicles dove front first into the dirt. “Out!” Sweetie screamed as she crawled out from her tank and looked around. The vehicles treads continued to spin, struggling to move and rolling over each other in a desperate attempt to move. “Don't let them escape!” she screamed. A pegasus, one of hers, slammed into the tank from above. She looked up and her mouth fell open.

From the clouds, dozens of pegasi spilled forth to crash against her own air forces. The winds spun and shifted wildly as dozens of air benders engaged the Water Nation in a battle for sky dominance.

The princess growled as she ran up the back of the tank and lept back onto ground level. Earth ponies began popping out from the ground surrounding the hole. “Where did all these forces come from?” she hissed.

“They must have acquired reinforcements since our last fight,” Scootaloo said as she landed besides the mare. “What are your orders?”

“Attack, of course! We still have them heavily outnumbered,” Sweetie growled as she looked up to the sky. The airship was retreating, but her pegasi were pushing forward despite the wonderbolts best efforts. “Come on, everypony, don't let them escape!” she screamed as she charged around the hole and ran towards the air ship. Her soldiers charged forward as well, as the earth benders quickly attempted to regroup. The two forces crashed together, stone, water and hooves flying as the princess and her two comrades moved with her.

Pegasi, from both the Air Nomads and the Water Nation, fell through the air like rain. Water gathered around the princess's horn as she batted earth ponies aside. Pillars of dirt shot at her and her friends, attempting to crush and knock them away, but the three weaved around them as they went. Scootaloo was a blur, dodging around earth benders as her hooves flashed out, tapping key points as the earth ponies crumbled to the ground. Flowerbloom's hooves shot out, hurtling small obsidian daggers through the air. They buried into hooves and clothing, locking the ponies up long enough for her to get in close and finish with a well placed kick.

The three dove and wove through the battle, the two forces fighting for their lives. A high pitched shriek filled the air as the airship's balloon was slashed, causing the massive vehicle to begin a rapid descent towards the ground.

“Rainbow, we're going down!” Twilight yelled as she held onto the ropes as best she could, the wind whistling by her as the ship plunged towards the ground.

“There's too many of them! We need to get everypony out of here!” Rainbow growled as she held on as well, her wings flapping in a hopeless effort to keep the ship afloat.

“I'm sounding the retreat!” Twilight yelled as her horn lit up. Once again a large ball of flame formed at the tip of her horn, compressing itself. However, before she could send it up into the sky and release, the ship slammed into the ground. She was torn from the rigging, the ball shooting out from her and exploding across the ground, failing to illuminate the sky and instead alighted the sails. The alicorn laid on the ground, the world blurry as she struggled to see clearly. Yet, all she could see were flames.

“Avatar, are you well? Avatar!” Celestia yelled as she shook the dazed mare. She quickly looked back to Fluttershy. “She needs your help. She's the only one who can properly signal the retreat.”

Fluttershy gulped as she stepped forward, pressing her hooves to the head of the disoriented mare. Celestia turned and galloped away, glancing through the burning wreckage. “Niece! Where are you?”

“H-here,” the fallen princess groaned, her voice from above. The elder unicorn looked up and let out a soft snicker. Wrapped in the ship's ropes was Rarity, dangling upside down.

“You're lucky these have not caught fire yet, come,” the elder unicorn said as a small blade of water shot up and sliced through the ropes.

“AHHHH!” the younger mare shrieked as she fell to the ground, hooves flailing. “Owww... why... did you do that?”

“I... errr... sorry,” Celestia mumbled as she helped her niece to her hooves. “Come, we must move. A retreat is being called.” An explosion tore through the air as the great fireball above lit the battlefield. “Has been called.”

“Y-yes, of course,” Rarity groaned as she leaned against her aunt. The two quickly made their way from the burning wreckage with the other survivors, regrouping with the avatar and Rainbow.

“Okay, what now?” the pegasus asked as she glanced to the sky. “I should be up there with them.”

“Everypony who can escape, likely is. Fluttershy and Pinkie are helping the wounded. We need to draw them away as best we can,” Twilight said as she began galloping away, her horn alight. She came to a screeching halt as shards of ice were suddenly lodged into the ground in front of her.

“Going somewhere, avatar?” Sweetie asked as she stood on top of the burning wreckage. Scootaloo and Flowerbloom stood on either side of her as they jumped from the shattered wood.

“Sweetie Belle!” Rarity gasped.

“Wait, this is your sister?” Twilight asked as she took a step back. “The cause of this whole mess?”

“Well, errr, yes. She's a goo- why am I defending her to you?” the fallen princess asked as she face hooved. “Sweetie, you need to give up on this, it-”

“I will not give up on this!” the younger princess yelled. “You are coming home with me, and we are going to capture the avatar! Whether you like it or not!” Water swirled around her horn, bubbling and popping as it turned a dark, angry purple. “You're going to be my BSBFF!”

“.... Bsh bfphhh?” Rainbow asked with a cocked eye.

“BSBFF! Big sister best friend forever, duh,” Sweetie said as she rolled her eyes. “Now, avatar. It's time for us to end this! Sister, join me at my side so we can eliminate her, and then the fire benders!”

Rarity stopped and stared at her sister, before looking to the avatar. She slowly shook her head. “No. Sister, this isn't you. This isn't the kind of mare you- EEK!” She was shoved to the side by her aunt as a shard of purple ice impaled near her leg.

“This is me! If you won't stand besides me willingly, I'll make you lay beside me!” she screamed as the purple liquid shot at them. Rainbow formed a quick wall of wind, scattering the poison.

“What is that stuff?” the pegasus asked.

“Poison bending! Don't let it touch you,” Celestia growled. “Be very careful, she is far more dangerous than she appears.”

“Wonderful,” Twilight growled as fire formed on her horn. She let out a yelp as a blade of obsidian struck the tip of her horn, dislodging the flames.

“Nuh uh,” Flowerbloom said with a shake of her head. “Bad mare.”

Scootaloo charged forward, jumping into the air and bringing a hoof down at Rainbow. The older pegasus jumped back, doing three quick loops through the air away from the pony.

“Hey, I don't know what you've got planned, squirt, but no way I'm letting you take my bending away,” she said with a smirk as she dove down and flew inches by Scootaloo, gripping her tail and yanking her into the air.

Sweetie charged forward as the liquid surged around her in a tight circle. With a flick of her head, a purple blade of ice slashed at Twilight, but she countered with a small burst of flame, evaporating the liquid and creating a thin purple mist.

Flowerbloom hurled three small daggers, two lodging into Celestia's cloak and trapping it in the ground, while the final narrowly missed Rarity's tail. “Eee! Careful!” the elder princess cried. “Do you have any idea how many times a day I have to brush my tail to keep it this perfect?”

Scootaloo shrieked as she was spun around by her tail, before being hurtled high into the air. She screamed and flailed her wings and hooves as she sailed through the air towards the burning wreckage, struggling to gain more height. “Ahhhhhhhhh!”

The jagged burning pieces of wood came closer and closer as she finally covered her eyes and tucked herself in. The painful burning never came. Instead, a hoof latched around her side as she was suddenly raised into the air. “Are you trying to get yourself killed? You shadowbolts are supposed to fly better than that.”

“I-I'm not an official shadowbolt yet and I can't fly!” Scootaloo shrieked as Rainbow raised her higher and higher into the air

“Oh. That's... well, makes this a lot easier,” the pegasus said as she suddenly tossed the younger mare into the air, the ground now far below.

Scootaloo screamed and flailed her hooves again, as her fall quickly stopped. “Huh?” she slowly opened one eye and looked down. She had landed on a small cloud. “Hey!”

“Sorry, twerp. Just stay up here until we're done fighting!” Rainbow said as she leaned back and dove towards the ground. “Twilight, take cover!” she yelled as she began picking up speed.

“What on- oh buck!” the alicorn shrieked as she flapped her wings and sent out a powerful gust of wind, knocking Sweetie and Flowerbloom backwards. “Hit the ground!” she shrieked and dove on top of Rarity and Celestia, as a spike of poisonous water narrowly missed them.

A moment later the world erupted in color around them as Rainbow shattered through the color spectrum, sending a circle of rainbow light outwards and across the field. The five ponies were sent hurtling back, head over hooves, from the powerful shockwave. High in the air Scootaloo gripped the cloud as tightly as she could and stared down. “Oh... my... that was the most awesome thing I've ever seen!” she shrieked as her cloud jumped and wobbled from the force.

Rainbow landed with a smirk, chuckling. “Yeah, that's what I do! Okay, let's get out of here and... guys?”

“But ah dun wanna play hoof ball, I wanna read mah book,” Twilight groaned as she laid on her back, her eyes little swirls.

“My... my mane,” Rarity shrieked as she slowly got to her hooves, her mane standing completely on end. “You insane lunatic! Look what you did to my MANE!” the unicorn screamed as she ran up to grab Rainbow by the collar and shook her. “Do you have any idea how hard that is to fix?”

“H-hey, we won, didn't we?” the pegasus said as her head wobbled back and forth.

“I should tear out your... your... your something, you little-”

“Niece!” Celestia said as she glared down. “It is time for us to go. Come, before your sister regains herself,” the elder unicorn said as she motioned towards the two dazed and unmoving mares.

“... Right. Escape now, kill the pegasus later. Coming!” the unicorn shoved Rainbow, before turning and galloping off. The pegasus moved to Twilight's side and quickly helped her hobble away as the ponies made their escape.

“They... they escaped?” Sweetie asked as she struggled to focus on the ponies that seemed to be multiplying and shaking before her eyes. “H-how? What about... what about the ambush?”

“We... checked on the ambush squad. All of them...” Caballeron said as he lowered his head. “They were dead. It was as if they had all been struck by lightning. No survivors.”

“That... they... how many...” the unicorn held her head as she closed her eyes. “How many did we lose, how many did we kill?”

“Dozens on each side, your highness,” the earth pony said as he nodded his head. “Unfortunately, they-”

“The ships. Where were they from?”

“I... errr. The ships?”

“The ships you fool! The ones she escaped on!” Even holding her head, she could feel her body swaying from side to side regardless of her desires.

“I can answer that, your highness,” Shadowblade said as she slowly limped forward, her hoof wrapped in bandages. “That was a pirate ship. They were likely hired from Los Pegasus. They-”

“We head there. Immediately,” Sweetie hissed as her eyes opened into narrow slits.

“But, your highness, we'll need more supplies for such a trip. And-” Caballeron objected.

“We will take whatever we need,” the princess growled as she looked around her camp. The tents had all been torn asunder and large rocks stood high into the air. “I will not accept defeat.” The sun slowly began to rise, casting its glow on the unicorn as her hooves began to quiver. “The avatar will suffer for this. As will all who aided her. Now MOVE!”

“So, you're sure everything will be okay?” Twilight asked nervously as she looked timidly at Applejack.

“Ah told yah, they all got outta there jus' fine,” the earth pony said with a snicker. “If yah all hadn't spent so much time waitin' on everypony and let them wonderbolts handle it, we coulda all gone with them.”

Twilight shrugged. “I guess. But... you know, maybe this is for the best? Everything went well,” she said with a smile as she glanced towards the rising sun. “I... well... as well as it could. The fire tribe is on its way to Fillydelphia, where they'll be safe. We managed to escape.”

“Not everything worked out well...” Spike grumbled as he walked besides them.

“Yes, of course. The mare who wants me in chains is still out and running about,” the alicorn grumbled with a roll of her eyes. “Wish she hadn't disappeared like that. Could have at least had her come with us and kept her from trying to attack again.”

“That's probably why she ran off in the night,” Rainbow teased as they trotted along.

“Anyway. Things went well for once. We... lost some ponies. But... we won. For the first time, in a long time, I feel we've actually won a battle instead of just survived it. Here's hoping it stays that way.” She sighed and lowered her gaze and shook her head. “I would be so lucky...”

Chapter 19: Earned Rest

“Eeeee!” Twilight shrieked happily as she hopped around the campsite. “Hee hee hee hee! Everypony wake up! Guess what, hee hee!”

Spike groaned as he slowly looked up from under Fluttershy's wing. “What are you up for? Do we gotta do more running again?” He narrowed his eyes into little slits as he glared.

“Twilight... Angel bunny needs his rest,” the little yellow pegasus mumbled as she held the little rabbit in her hooves, close to her stomach.

“But today is going to be the most awesome day!”

“Mmm? Why?” Rainbow asked with a yawn as she slowly raised her head from her nice, comfortable resting cloud.

“Because we don't have to run anywhere! There's no impending attack, everypony is safe, there's no great battles we need to avoid! And, most importantly, today I get to learn earth bending! Eeeee!”

The dragon stared at her for a few moments before turning to the pegasus. “Could you...?”

“On it,” Rainbow grumbled as she broke off a chunk of her cloud and hurtled it at Twilight's face, before rolling over and closing her eyes. “G'night... wake me up at a decent time... like noon... or dusk...”

There was a loud crack as Applejack shattered the rock she was laying on. Everypony sat up, eyes wide. “Gooooood mornin' everypony! Yah all have a nice lil nap?”

“Go back to bed you two,” the rainbow-maned pegasus groaned. “It's barely even dawn. Even Pinkie's sleeping... still... somehow.” She glanced to the pink earth pony, who was still slightly snoring despite having sat up.

“Early tah bed, early tah rise. We got a full day ah apple buckin' ahead of us an'...” she trailed off. “Oh. Huh. We got a whole day ah earth bendin' tah work on. Come on, yah magical pony. Let's go teach yah some proper bendin'!” Applejack said as she started trotting away.

“Eee! What are we going to do first?” Twilight asked as she galloped after the mare. “Rockalanch? The trembler? Maybe I can learn to make explosions out of dirt?”

“That sounds good an' all, but let's start with move a rock,” Applejack said with a snicker. “Rest ah yah need tah get up earlier. Back on the farm we were up from dusk tah dawn buckin' trees and workin'.”

“Savin' the world is tough work,” Spike grumbled as he nestled under the yellow wing of warmth. “And I need my beauty sleep.”

“Heh. Come on, Twi, let's get yah some proper trainin',” Applejack said as she slowly trotted from the camp site towards some large boulders.

“Mmmkay. Lesson one. Yah wanna move a rock? Yah gotta be tougher an a rock! Like this! Yah!” The earth pony turned and head butted a large boulder, shattering it to pebbles.

“I got it!” Twilight said excitedly as she ran up to the next and pulled her head back.

“What? No! Wait until-” Applejack cringed as the alicorn head butted the boulder, not creating even the smallest dent as she tumbled backwards and fell over with swirls in her eyes. “Yah get a bit more practice. Come on, shake it off.”

“Ah can taste the sky. It's minty...” the alicorn mumbled as she slowly got to her hooves, head wobbling from side to side.

“Eeyup, catch!” the earth pony said as she flung a large rock at the avatar.

“Huh? AHHH!” Twilight shrieked as she was hit and sent flying backwards, head over hooves. She laid there a few moments, soft groans coming from her. “Owie...”

“Yah can't just roll away from it! Yah gotta use some muscle, some mmph! Now git back on your hooves and show the rock yah ain't gonna move, it has tah move!”

“R-right. O-on it,” the alicorn groaned as she got up and readied herself for the next rock. It sent her hurtling back with more pained groans.

“Uh huh. Okay, apparently this may be a wee bit outta your level. Try this. Yah push me past this line,” she said as she drew a line in the dirt, “we'll move onto the next lesson after that.” She stomped her hooves as rocks and dirt suddenly flew up and latched onto her. After a second she charged forward, sending the alicorn tumbling backwards.

“Owie... I think this hurts more than fire bending training...” the alicorn groaned.

“Let's reset, an' try again. Remember, yah need to be unmoving. Yah need tah jam your hooves into the ground an' tell 'em that yah refuse to move. Even if an entire mountain falls on yah and tries tah push yah 'round, yah refuse to move. It's not like fire bendin' where yah try tah burn through things an' plow through quickly, and it's not like air bending where yah try tah move and come at it from a different angle. Yah just sit there, and refuse tah move one inch. Then yah push back even harder. Steady, pure force. Got it?”

“Y-yes. I think I've got it. Let's try again,” Twilight said as she jammed her hooves into the ground and locked her knees. She gulped nervously as she looked up at the earth covered mare, but slowly nodded “I'm ready.”

“Yahhh!” Applejack yelled as she moved forward, her frame shoving the dirt aside. She slammed the avatar back, skidding along the ground a few feet. The alicorn closed her eyes and refused to bend her knees or fall, her hooves grinding up the dirt as she went. Then, she stopped.

Twilight slowly opened her eyes and looked down. She had finally stopped moving, even with the other pony pushing her back. She growled and slowly leaned forward, lifting a hoof and pushing Applejack back.

“Good! Like this, see? You're getting the hang of it!”

“Yes! Eek!” the alicorn stumbled as she tried to take another step, quickly flying back from the powerful push of the other mare.

“But yah still got a lot of work tah do... come on, gitup.”

“My everything hurts...”

“Gonna hurt a lot more if yah don't move it! Now git!” The pony slammed her hoof down as a pillar of stone slammed up under the purple pony, sending her flying into the air. “Up!”

“Ahhhhhhh!” Twilight shrieked as she beck fell down, slamming into the ground with a groan.

“Yah know yah got them fancy wings, dont'cha?”

“I-I forgot...”

“Hee hee. You know, watching this is kinda worth getting up early for,” Spike said as he leaned against a rock, munching on popcorn.

“Mmmm hmm. Happy I don't need to learn earth bending,” Rainbow said with a snicker as she took a hoofful of the popcorn and popped it in her mouth. “Think yah missed some of the kernals.”

“AHHHHHHH!” Twilight screamed as she ran down a mountain, an avalanche of stone chasing after her.

“Don't keep runnin'! Yah gotta stand firm and take it head on!” Applejack yelled as she walked down the mountain on one of the stones. “Ouch, not like that!” the earth pony cringed as the poor alicorn was flattened.

“That ain't gonna cut it!” the earth bender snapped as the avatar wobbled along helplessly, a large rock balanced on her back as she tried not to topple over. “Ah could shove yah over like this!” With a firm stomp of her hooves, the ground shook. The alicorn toppled over, the boulder rolling over her.

“Owie...”

“Now this just ain't gonna cut it,” Applejack grumbled as she glanced down at the rock Twilight was trying to push. It was easily the size of two ponies. “Yah gotta move one like that!” She said with a motion towards one the size of a tank. The alicorn's mouth fell open.

“So, how long until you think Twilight will have a breakdown?” Spike asked as he nibbled on a carrot.

“Oh, she'll stick with it. Still, it's a lot of fun to watch,” Rainbow snickered as she lounged on a cloud. “Too bad for her she can't be as awesome as me. Bending just comes naturally. Mmm hmm.”

“At least we have time,” the dragon mumbled as he laid back to rest as well. “With the fire tribe safe, all she has to do now is learn some earth bending and then we just need a water bender. How hard could it be to find one of those?”

“M-must I?” Rarity asked as she stared up at her aunt with quivering eyes.

“This was your idea... if we are too easily identified when we arrive at Fillydelphia we-”

“I know, I know,” the young princess mumbled. She took a deep breath. “I'm... I'm so sorry. I never wanted it to come to this.”

“I know. Just... make it quick,” the elder unicorn said as she closed her eyes.

Rarity nodded, and struck. With the gentle sound of metal on metal, the elder ponies mane was cut as long, clear locks of hair fell to the ground. She stared up at her aunt, struggling to hold back the tears. “I... I'm so sorry... I wish... I wish there was another way...” she whimpered as the scissors cut once again and, soon, her aunt stood with a thin, long tail and mane. “I just... I-I need a moment,” the young princess whispered as she shook her head and took deep breaths.

“Little niece, I tremble in fear to imagine what you will do when it comes time for yours.”

“Just... just make it quick,” Rarity said softly as she held out her hooves and waited for the loss. A few clips and snips later the elder pony sighed.

“It is done. Do you wish to see it now or...”

“Y-yes. I must... d-did any of the curls survive?”

“I'm afraid they all had to be removed. Niece, you must be strong. Come along, we will find a river or... something. I assure you, you look quite adorable with short hair.”

“Well of course you say that!” the mare shrieked. “You're my aunt, you have to say I look good no matter what!” She glared up at her elder, before slowly lowering her gaze. “I... I am sorry. I didn't mean to lash out... I'm just upset. So many hours, wasted...” She turned and looked to her fallen locks, a tear forming in her eyes as she turned away. “Let's... let's go. Perhaps I'm just over reacting.”

“Don't worry, it'll be fine. We'll find a lake or something, and you will see that you are still beautiful,” Celestia said as she walked close to her niece, giving her a comforting nuzzle.

Rarity smiled and nodded. “Thank you.”

“Does it LOOK like ah'm lookin' to laugh?” Applejack snapped as she stomped her hoof on the ground, eliciting a soft squeak from Twilight.

“N-no ma'am.”

“Then why do yah keep showing me these jokes?” the earth pony snapped as she motioned towards the three boulders that had slammed into the nearby wall.

“S-sorry,” Twilight squeaked as she lowered her gaze. “I-I just, they were coming at me and I-”

“This is not what bein' an earth bender is about, yah don't just-”

“Applejack!” Rainbow snapped from behind the earth bender. “You're being too rough on her. It's just her first day!”

“First day? She's the avatar, there aren't any-” the earth pony squeaked as the pegasus jammed their noses together.

“Calm. Down. She's trying her hardest, don't just keep yelling at her,” Rainbow growled.

The earth pony's eye twitched, before she let out a sigh and shook her head. “Fine. Ten minute break for breakfast, then we get back to it,” she hmphed before storming off.

Spike trailed after the earth pony, nibbling his carrot. “Soooo... what's up?” he asked once they left the other two behind.

“Whaddaya mean, what's up?” Applejack asked as she glanced back.

“Yah got really intense there. Thought yah were actually trying to crush Twilight near the end,” Spike said as he took a bite of his carrot and started talking with his mouth full. “Yah know, yah cwush 'er an' 'on't 'ave a 'tudent.”

“What?”

The dragon swallowed, then belched. “If you crush her, you won't have a student. What's got you all riled up?”

“Nothin'. Nothin' at all. Jus' a bit... flustered. She's takin' her time an' ah need tah train her so ah can head back home. They're all waitin' for meh...” Applejack mumbled as she hopped onto a rock and laid down.

“They are? What are they waiting for?” Spike asked as he hopped onto the rock and sat down, leaning against her. “You never told us what convinced you to come join us.”

“Ah... well... yah see...” the earth pony sighed as she lowered her gaze. “Good ol' Granny Smith and Big Mac. Ah'll be honest, ah kinda wanted tah come with yah all, a lil bit.” She closed her eyes. “Mah big brother, right now? His legs probably still in the sling. Ah couldn't just leave 'em tah take care of everything by themselves, now could I?”

“I guess. But then, why did you come?”

“Ah kept... well... ah kept glancin' out the windows. Kept hopin' tah see yah all. Traveled down tah town a few times, found out where yah went and if there had been any news. Not a single bit of information. Came home one day, and all mah work was done. Thought somepony had come and stolen the entire fields harvest! Ran inside, found Big Mac peelin' apples and Granny Smith bakin' some pies for all the ponies they'd hired tah help with the harvest. Heh.”

“To help with the harvest?” Spike asked as he smiled to her.

“Eeyup. Hired nearly a dozen ponies tah do all the work. Even Granny Smith went an' helped. She used tah be a right amazin' earth bender, yah know. She can't so much any more, but she used tah shake the dirt with the best a them. Next thing ah know, ah get hit upside the head with a bag ah supplies an' have 'em yellin' at me. Now, yah may not of noticed, but mah brother don't like tah talk much. So when he does? A pony's gonna stand there an' listen. Told me ah better get mah flank out there an' help you an' your lil friends. Wasn't right that ah just... work on the farm,” she choked as little tears formed in her eyes. “Ah... d-didn't wanna go. Ah promised I'd always take care ah the farm, no matter what. But... that big red gravel head. Looked meh straight in the eye and said 'Applejack. Best way yah can help our farm is tah get out there an' smash the Water Nation intah dust. It's what ma and pa woulda wanted.'”

“Really? He said all that?”

The mare paused before shaking her head. “Well, no. But it's what he meant. Ain't always what yah say, sometimes it's just how yah say it.”

“So why are you getting all frustrated at Twilight? It sounds like they have everything settled.”

“Ah just... last time ah left ah lost mah parents and lil sis. Who knows what'll happen when ah get back this time? What if ah can't get back, what if ah fail? Leave them missin' another lil Apple? Ah promised...”

Spike frowned and reached up, gently patting her back. “That's not going to happen. Twilight is going to fix everything. All she needs is a little bit of help to get there. Trust me, we've been through a lot, and we're all still kicking.” The dragon pounded his chest. “Though I'll be honest, I am a big helper in that. Heh.”

The mare snickered and gave a little nod. “Sure. Yah certainly are a nice lil fire brand. Bet yah can take half a dozen of them water benders on your lonesome.”

“Wellllll, I don't like to brag, but I totally could,” he said as he flexed his muscles. “We should probably get back though. Twilight still needs lessons.”

“Ehhh... ah'll come back n a few. Give the avatar a few more moments rest. Yah can go if yah like.”

“Nah, I'm comfy,” Spike mumbled as he laid back against her and closed his eyes.

“It's... it's not the worst thing ever. Yes. I could... I could live with this,” Rarity mumbled as she stared at her reflection in the clear water. Her hair was short and straight, the purple strands barely coming down to the bottom of her ears and up past her horn. “It'll... it'll work, right?”

“You look wonderful, dear,” Celestia said as she patted the young mare's side. “Now, we should leave after a quick wash,” she said as she stepped into the water. They took their time, using her hooves as the two helped remove loose strands of hair and caked on dirt from each other. The unicorn froze and quickly looked up.

“What is it?”

“Nothing. I just thought I heard something... it's nothing,” the elder mare said as she stepped free from the river.

“Heard something?” the young princess asked as her cheeks turned red. “You mean... somepony spying on us?” she yelped as she jumped from the water and quickly shed the droplets with a wave of her hoof. “Let's find them, now,” she growled.

“It might have just been the wind,” Celestia said, but was ignored as the younger mare stormed off through the bushes and trees. The elder unicorn just sighed and rolled her eyes. “You'll need another bath now...”

“KYAAAAA!” Rarity screamed as she jumped back from one of the bushes, her eyes wide. Almost instantly her aunt was by her side, hooves around her niece.

“What was it? A snake? Were you bitten? Are you hurt? Where is it?”

“There! In there, he, it's a, he's hurt, blood, it,” Rarity shook as she stared, her eyes wide and frightened.

Celestia stared at her niece before slowly stepping into the bushes. A hoof came to her mouth as she saw the white unicorn stallion, his blond hair coated in blood, laying in the grass. Long lacerations covered his body and a small chunk of his horn had been cut away. “Rarity, stay back,” the elder pony said as she moved closer. She kneeled before the pony and placed a hoof to his side. The stallion twitched and let out a soft groan. “Niece. I need you to find some herbs, they-”

“I know which ones,” the princess said quickly as she galloped away.

“Now, let's see what I can do for you,” Celestia muttered as she got to her hooves, tearing the bushes away and gathering some water in her canteen. She then moved back to the wounded unicorn's side, slowly crouching to clean the wounds.

“YAHHHHHH!” Twilight growled as she pushed her shoulder against the large rock covered Applejack. Inch by inch she pushed the earth pony back, slowly shoving her past the line. With a final, powerful thrust she slammed the other mare full force, toppling the earth pony over. “I did it!”

“Guh! Yeah, yah did,” Applejack said as she got to her hooves, the rocks falling away, and motioned towards the boulders laying to the side. “Now, let's see how solid your stance is.”

“On it!” the alicorn said happily as she galloped towards the rocks. The earth pony lifted one and dropped it on the avatar's back, who locked her legs as she held it.

“Okay, hold it steady,” Applejack said as she slowly circled the mare, grinning before slamming her hooves down. The ground shook, but the alicorn refused to bend or topple. She stayed steady, even with the boulders wobbling on her back. “Now that's what ah like tah see! Keep it up, might even be able tah make a proper earth bender outta yah.”

“Really? Eek!” the alicorn toppled over as she relaxed her stance in excitement.

“... Eventually. Now come on, let's see what kinda rocks yah can break,” Applejack said as she bucked the boulder off the avatar. She hummed a moment as she looked around, before grinning. “Stand right there,” she trotted away and moved towards the cliff wall. The earth pony turned and gave it a powerful buck. Cracks formed along the wall, spreading out on all sides as the mare stared sinking underground. “Remember, don't dodge. Yah gotta be too stubborn tah move!”

Twilight squeaked as she looked down where her teacher had been. She then slowly looked up at the cracks forming on the cliff wall. They spread quickly, shaking and trembling as the unicorn's ears went flat on her head. “Oh no.” A single small rock fell to the ground as the quivering wall stopped. “Oh. Well, that's not so-”

CRACK! The wall collapsed from the abuse, sending hundreds of rocks down at the mare in an avalanche of stone. She let out a shriek as she planted her hooves, watching the impending wave with horror. At the last moment she spread out her wings and took to the sky, shooting off as fast as she could and narrowly avoiding being crushed by stone. She stared down at the cloud of dust that filled the air, her mouth open.

The dirt, dust and rock separated as Applejack popped out from the ground, a pillar of stone under her. “What was that? Yah finally get a proper chance to test out what ah taught yah, and yah jus' run away?”

“Well, I, I just, it was a lot of rock. I mean, i-it came at me and I p-panicked,” Twilight squeaked as she held her hooves close to her chest. “I-I'm sorry, I was just, I was scared because it was all...”

“It was rocks and dirt! Yah need tah stand there and take it, head on! Yah need to be tough, strong, powerful, stubborn! Unwilling to let the rocks take yah down! What do yah think I've been teachin' yah all this time?”

“I don't, I mean, it's... maybe if... it was just one rock? Or... smaller rocks, or-”

“Is that what yah wanna do when yah finally go up against the Water Nation for the last time? Ask them tah send fewer ponies? Smaller tanks? Maybe have 'em attack yah one at a time?” Applejack glared as she shook her head. She stopped as she caught sight of Spike, who was glaring up at her. “Ah mean... Twilight, listen. You're doin' fine. But yah need tah do better. Yah need tah get all this right, get the mindset of an earth bender. Yah can't let them push yah around. If yah do, then when the Water Nation comes for yah, they'll roll over yah and everypony yah know and care about will be... gone.”

Twilight stared for a few moments before looking down at the rocks, then to Applejack. She nodded slowly. “I... yes. Let's... let's try again. One more time. I think I can do it this time. I just need to... think like a earth bender. I can do this.” The mare took a deep breath and slowly lowered to the ground. “I'm... I think I can.”

“Right. Ah'll get on it,” Applejack said as she stomped on the ground as the rocks began to gather up.

“Here, I found these,” Rarity said as she dropped a number of different plants on the ground.

Celestia looked them over as her eyes went wide. “Well... I'll be. Rarity, you've gotten far better at identifying them. This is the only one that's poisonous,” the elder unicorn said as she tossed aside a small red leaf. “These should do wonders.”

The young princess nodded as she looked down at the wounded stallion. She nervously nibbled on her lower lip. “He's... going to die, isn't he? We're too late? Just like...” She shook her head and turned away. “Maybe if we'd come here sooner, or noticed him quicker, or... or something...”

“He'll be fine, worry not,” Celestia mumbled as she ground the plants into a paste. “The wounds are bleeding heavily, but most are quite shallow. It would take quite a bit more to kill this poor stallion. You may look at him, it won't hurt.”

Rarity gulped and slowly looked down at the stallion. She twitched as Littlewing and Shadowhoof flashed to her mind. She quickly shook her head and then gazed down at the unconscious stallion. The wounds were now cleaned and, aside from a large stab in his chest, most were tiny and insignificant. “Do you know when he'll awaken?”

“He's been in and out of consciousness while I've been tending to him,” the elder unicorn said as she slowly rubbed the paste against his chest wound. “He mentioned the fire tribes. I believe he may have been one of them.”

“Really? Wait, do you mean these wounds are...”

“Yes. They appear to be from water benders. He was likely stabbed and cut multiple times while attempting an escape.”

“I... I see. Did you... catch his name?”

“I believe so. Blueblood.”

Twilight gulped nervously as she stared at the wall of rocks ahead of her. Any moment they'd come falling down on top of her. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, jamming her hooves into the ground. “Okay, I'm ready.”

“You sure?” Applejack asked from the bottom of the wall. “Yah better be sure that-”

“I'm ready. I won't move,” the alicorn growled as she dug her hooves in. “No matter how many rocks fall, I will stand my ground.”

“That's what ah like tah hear!” the earth pony said as she gave the wall a powerful buck, before quickly melding with the ground. Instantly the rocks rumbled towards the avatar.

Twilight kept her eyes closed, holding completely still as the avalanche of stone raced towards her. As the first stone slammed into her, she held her ground and pushed out with her bending, and she felt it crumbled to dust around her. She growled and pushed forward, unwavering as the rocks split around her and parted ways, crumbling and filling the air with dust. However, after the second large rock hit her, she was unable to break it fully. Then the third, fourth and fifth sent her toppling over with a shriek.

As the avalanche of rock and dirt finally stopped, she laid under many feet of stone. She was quickly unburied by her earth bending teacher, who stood over her with a smirk. “Well, yah gone an' done it. If nothin' else yah got the mind set of an earth bender down. How yah feel?”

“Better than last time I was buried in rocks... at least nothing feels broken,” Twilight groaned as she slowly got up, shaking the dirt off. “So I failed, huh?”

“Nnnnope!” Applejack said with a chuckle. “But ah think that's enough for today. Yah know how tah move a rock while not movin' yahself. Tomorrow, ah'll show yah some real earth bendin' techniques.”

“Wait, really?” the alicorn squealed as her wings shot up. “You mean it?”

“Eeyup. Ah think yah gone and earned it. For now though... ah'd let Fluttershy have a look at yah. Also, might wanna take a bath.”

“Huh?” Twilight said as she looked down. She was covered from head to hoof in dust, not to mention the innumerable scrapes and cuts. “Oh, right... hee hee!” she said as she galloped off. “Fluttershy, guess what, guess what! I passed the first lesson!”

“So... still worried?” Spike asked as he hopped over one of the fallen rocks.

“Eeyup. But... well, she's pretty good. Maybe, jus' maybe, we'll be able tah do all this after all. She's stubborn enough tah get it done.”

Chapter 20: Revealed Elements

Rarity was awoken by a coughing fit. “Grglll...” she grumbled as she slowly got to her hooves. “What's going on?” She caught sight of their patient as she gasped. “You're awake!”

The white unicorn groaned, laying by the river with the water going down his face. “S-sorry... I just needed... GAHHHH!” he yelled as he looked to her, backing away as quickly as he could. He tripped, tumbling into the water and letting out a pained cry. “Oww...”

“You're hurt!” Rarity said as she quickly moved to help him, her aunt slowly awakening as well. “You shouldn't be moving so much,” the mare growled as she brought him to his hooves. “Why are you jumping around like that? Are you trying to worsen your condition?”

“S-sorry. I just, I mean, you looked like someone I met... recently. You're a bit taller, shorter hair and... sorry, it was the coat. Startled me,” he mumbled gently as he lowered his gaze.

“I see. You seem to be doing much better at least,” Rarity mumbled as she brought him back to dry land. “It's been a few days since we found you, we were worried you weren't going to make it.”

“I apologize for... troubling you,” he mumbled as he laid down and closed his eyes. “Thank you for your help... but you should have just left me to die.”

“Well, your welcome and, what? Die? Why?” the princess asked as she stared at him. Celestia cocked an eye, but laid back down and pretended to sleep.

“I... I've... these wounds were my fault. I did a lot of bad things and just decided to finish it up with doing something stupid. Dying would have been the least I- ow!”

“Don't talk like that,” the mare snapped, before smacking him upside the head again. “We worked hard trying to keep you alive, saying such things just insults all our work.”

“S-sorry. Thank you very much,” the stallion mumbled as he lowered his head.

“You were one of the fire benders, weren't you? Blueblood?” Rarity asked. The stallion cringed and she shook her head. “D-don't worry, we aren't with the Water Nation. We're just travelers on our way to Fillydelphia. We have nothing to do with the war.”

“... Yes, then. My name is Blueblood, and I am a firebender,” the stallion said with a defeated sigh. “I am... was a fire bender. No, I still am. It's just...” he sighed and lowered his head lower. “Things have happened. The Water Nation has over run the tribe by now and... I was a fool.”

“The fire tribe is safe,” the mare said as she reached out to pat his head. “The Earth Kingdom came and helped them escape. There was a battle, and many ponies lost their lives, but the fire benders are not yet extinct.”

“They aren't?” the stallion mumbled as a smile formed on his face. “That... that's good.”

“However, if you weren't there, where were you all this time?”

He frowned and lowered his gaze. “That... that is a long story. It doesn't particularly paint me in the greatest light. But, if you wish to know it...”

“I see,” Rarity said softly as she patted his head again. “Well, I won't force you to tell me if you don't wish to. It'll be dark for many more hours, you should get some rest. If... you'd like, you may travel with us. I mean, we're on our way to Fillydelphia still. If you'd like to meet with the rest of your tribe, it is for the best.”

“I doubt they'd want that,” the stallion muttered. “It's... my fault that the Water Nation knew where they were.”

She froze, her hoof hovering in mid air over his mane. “You... you told them?” she squeaked out as she trembled. “But they...”

“They tricked me!” the stallion said as he pulled away. “I was... I was foolish and naive and I thought it was all for the best. I was too busy looking at my... at my own desires to... I was a fool. I would not do it again, I assure you,” he said as he tried to puff out his chest and look as regal as he could from his laying position. He quickly gave it up and laid back down. “What's the point, I am such a fool...”

Rarity looked down, before slowly reaching out to pat his side. “I... I don't know what happened. But I'm sure you didn't intend to cause harm to your tribe. I'm certain they'd forgive you.”

The stallion scoffed as he laid his head down. “I... doubt that. But, I will come with you. To Fillydelphia. It's not as if there is anywhere else I could go.”

The sun slowly rose, a comforting sight as its warm glow spread across the land. Spike remained still on his back, Fluttershy's wing laying flat over his body. Angel laid nestled close to the yellow pegasus's chest, dreaming of delicious salads with cherries.

Rainbow and Twilight hovered slightly above the air, a small bed of cloud holding them comfortably as they dreamed of their own little adventures. Applejack slept curled up on a small rock, Pinkie nestled with her head against the other earth pony's side.

Twilight let out a shriek as she fell out of her cloud suddenly, laying on the ground while her hooves kept running. “What? Who? Where is, what? The thing, where did, what? Hey!” she shrieked.

“Riveting... go back to bed...” Rainbow grumbled as she nestled in with her cloud.

“No!” the alicorn cried as she jumped to her hooves and looked around. “I can't believe, I mean, I had a dream about Discord. He was here, and he was trying to get all of us, and I tried to use the elements, but I didn't have the elements! I hadn't done that yet!”

“Yah're still learning two, we'll find yah a water bender somehow. Just git back tah sleep,” Applejack grumbled, her hat over her head. “Confounded alicorn... it's a day ah rest, yah know...”

“No, not those elements! Well, yes, I still need to learn those elements. But the other elements, the elements of harmony! Everypony, wake up!”

“Elements a what now?” the earth pony groaned as she tugged her hat back and glowered at the loud mare.

“Har-mo-ny!” Pinkie said as she hopped off her friend and began to trot around the camp. “Laughter, kindness, loyalty, generosity, honesty and the magic that holds them together!”

“Exactly! I have all six of us together, it's obvious we're the six elements. I just need to find out how to... well, which element belongs to who. Laughter is obviously Pinkie Pie. Generosity must be Fluttershy. Loyalty...” She glanced down to the dragon and smiled. “I couldn't imagine a more loyal friend. Which must mean... Applejack, you must be kindness and Rainbow must be honesty.”

“The what now?” Applejack asked with a cocked eye. “Ah'd hardly call her honest. Ah don't think sayin' dah first thing that pops into your head is so much honesty as it is not thinkin' things through. What's all this elements and thingies gotta do with anything? Yah all aren't makin' a licka sense.”

“Oh. Right, well you see there's this evil spirit of chaos that is currently sealed, thanks to the previous avatar, but may be released by the Water Nation within a year or so, if I don't stop it. The big problem is that I currently lack the capabilities to stop him, so my main plan is to master the elements and take down the Water Nation before then. Now, the elements of harmony may still be needed and to use those I need to find the five others who represent the elements, which I believe are you five. Now, I need to figure out how to use them and well... give them to you. It's... confusing, I know. But hey, we're all together now! In fact, if this works we might even be able to stop the Water Nation now, instead of trying to find a water bender.”

“Ah see... that's... a mite interestin'. So, how does it all work?” Applejack asked as she got to her hooves. “Yah jus' wave your hooves about an' all this element thing comes out, or is it like bendin'?”

“I... I'm not sure. Honestly. I've never done this before...” Twilight mumbled as she tapped her hooves together. “I... I guess everypony just form a circle around me? I'll see if I can... send the elements into you?”

“Mmmm hmmm... I'll get right on that,” Rainbow grumbled as she rolled her back to the mare. “Just as soon as I wake up and have breakfast. Night...”

“... Fine. I'll see if I can sense them or something... I don't know,” the alicorn mumbled as she trotted away from them, hanging her head.

“Ah, buck up,” Applejack said with a chuckle. “We still got plenty a time. No need tah worry if it doesn't work right away.”

“... You're right. I guess... yeah, you're right,” the avatar said with a smile. “I'm going to go try to get it to work though. Or at least... see if I can feel these elements. When it's time for breakfast, let me know, okay?” The mare trotted away.

After a few moment Spike rolled over and grumbled. “Who's turn is it to make breakfast anyway?”

“... That clever girl,” Applejack said with a chuckle. “Well, ah'll make it this time, she can go ahead an' make lunch.”

“Are you going to be okay to stand?” Rarity asked Blueblood as they began to pack up camp.

“I'll be fine,” he said with a hmph. “It'll be a sad day when I am unable to walk on my own. If you wish to make a servant of yourself, you may carry my bags.”

“Excuse me?” the young princess snapped.

“You can... oh. Right, I'm sorry,” the stallion mumbled as he lowered his head. “I'll be fine to carry whatever you need me to. Some habits just... die hard.”

“I see,” Rarity mumbled softly as she started packing up, though the smallest bag she left aside for him. “You know, If you worked on that behavior, you'd be a much more attractive pony. Your mane and coat are just fabulous, how many times a night do you comb it?”

“Hmmm? Oh. I used to brush it every night and every morning,” he mumbled as he rubbed a hoof through it. “It's become... a bit more wild since then, but I ensure that I still clean it regularly. Being out in this wilderness and grime well... sometimes I wonder how you common ponies do such things.”

“Do such... what did your life used to consist of?” the princess asked as she held the small sack out to him.

“When I lived with the fire tribes? I... I led them. Food, water, combs, anything I required they supplied for me. The only things I ever did was practice my fire bending and... cause problems.” He lowered his gaze as they began walking. “When I... left them, I blamed them for everything. Every stick that got stuck in my mane, every bruise from when I tripped, every time it rained and I got cold, or when I couldn't feed myself... everything was their fault,” he growled as he stomped a hoof into the ground, before letting out a pained yelp and shaking it.

“You need to be more careful, you're still hurt,” Celestia warned. “Why did you leave your home?”

“I... I really don't want to talk about it,” he mumbled as he hung his head again. “Let's just say... I wasn't ready for what life had in store for me. I didn't know, or want to learn, how to deal with it. So I made mistakes... so many mistakes...”

“Is that how you ended up captured by the Water Nation?” Rarity asked as she looked him over, fortunately none of his bandages had yet turned red.

“Yes, captured. It was... no. I did not deserve that,” he growled as he shook his head. “That mare who led them, Sweetie Belle, she was a monster. She seemed so young, easy to manipulate... but she used me in the end. I shouldn't have underestimated her,” he then glanced to the ponies and smiled. “Take it from me. If you ever end up standing face to face with the leader of the Water Nation, run. Just... run. She'll tell you whatever you want to hear, then stab you in the back.”

“I... I see,” Rarity growled as she ground her teeth together. “I've heard of her. Quite an... intimidating presence. Mother? May I speak with you?” she asked as she began walking faster. “Privately?”

“Yes, Diamondeye?” Celestia said as she stopped and motioned for the stallion to walk off ahead. He gave them a questioning look, but kept trotting.

“I don't know how much more of this I can take,” she hissed as she glared at the stallion. “Can you believe the way he is talking about my sister?”

“No. Not your sister, the changed version of her. Discord's influence, not her. You must remember that.”

“Fine,” the unicorn growled. She then looked up. “I... will have to face her again, won't I?”

“... As much as I wish you wouldn't, most likely you will.”

“Auntie... how can I possibly fight her? Her poison bending is too strong. Is... is it possible for you to teach me how to-”

“We'll talk more about it tonight,” Celestia interrupted as she glanced to Blueblood. “It's best we don't... alert our guest of who we really are.”

“O-of course. Right, sorry. I was just... thank you, auntie,” Rarity mumbled as she quickly trotted after the stallion. “Sorry about that.”

“I understand,” Blueblood said with a nod of his head. “I understand that you have women problems. It's best I don't bother you during them,” he said with a hint of smugness in his voice.

“Women problems...” the mare's face turned bright red.

Celestia cringed as a scream filled the air. “Diamondeye! Be calm, he is still wounded! Beating on him is not the answer!” she shrieked as she galloped towards the two.

Twilight's eyes remained closed as she felt the world move around her. She reached out with her power, feeling every curve of the grass and movement of the bugs. Well, not so much the curves of the grass as the big lump of grass together. Her breath was soft and steady as she felt the spirit world begin to gently nudge its way into her control. She pushed it aside, instead of reaching out to the other world, she reached deep within herself.

To her surprise, they were there. Like five gems embedded in a crown, they glimmered and glittered deep within her, telling her of their presence and waiting to be polished and brought out for the world to see. Once they were touched, they tried to force their way out, shoving up from within her as they struggled to be released into the world.

She felt them wash over her. The feeling that she'd never be left without somepony by her side. The sensation of always having one to trust to tell her the truth, be it good or bad. The soothing love that made even the biggest hurts fade away. The generosity of one who was willing to sacrifice themselves. Finally, the joy brought even in one's darkest hour. She felt them flow through her, from hoof to tail, knocking away her pains and fears as her own magic bound them together as one.

Her eyes opened and, to her surprise, her friends were standing in front of her. “Huh? Did you come to check on me?”

“We came tah see what the light show was all about,” Applejack said as she looked the alicorn over. “Where'd the fancy crown come from?”

“Huh?” Twilight asked as she reached up. On her head a golden tiara, bearing a single purple star like her cutie mark. A grin formed on her lips as she nodded. “These are the elements. Well, this is mine. They are... I can feel them. Within me. It's so easy, they're just waiting for those who are meant to bear them. They're waiting for you. It's time.”

“It's all... shiny,” Rainbow mumbled as she poked the crown. “We'll get something like this? A little tiara thing?”

“I think it's beautiful,” Fluttershy said softly.

“I don't know if I want a tiara. A spiked collar though, that could be awesome,” Spike said with a chuckle.

“Hee hee,” Pinkie said as she hopped around. “Let's get ours, let's get ours!”

“Well, might as well,” Applejack said as she sat down. The others moved to circle the alicorn, and waited.

Twilight nodded as she closed her eyes and began focusing on those feelings once again. With her magic she gripped the joy and happiness that laughter brought. She smiled and slowly guided it out, directing it to Pinkie. It shot out, enveloping the earth pony in its power. She opened her eyes as a blinding pink light radiated out from the mare and, after a few seconds, it disappeared. Around the pony's neck, a golden necklace had formed with a light blue balloon shaped gem in the center, just like the hyper pony's cutie mark.

“Hee hee, it tickles!” Pinkie said as she nudged the gem.

“One down, time for number two,” Twilight said as she kept her eyes closed. She gripped the feeling of loyalty, of never being abandoned. With one of the five gone, the others pushed and prodded, trying to come out on their own as she struggled to hold them back. “One at a time,” she whispered. She then pushed loyalty towards Spike. As it went, it tore away from her grip, racing around the dragon a moment before pushing its way into Rainbow. “Huh?” the alicorn squeaked as she turned to her blue friend. A blinding blue light filled the air as her friend hovered in the air for a moment. As the pegasus lowered, a golden necklace with a red lightning bolt, again like the bearer's cutie mark, had formed around her neck.

“W-wow. It's... warm. It looks... heh. You know what? This is pretty neat!” Rainbow said as she nudged the necklace.

“Okay. Eek, calm down, calm down!” Twilight shrieked as the other three within her tried pushing out as well. The warmth of kindness spread out from her and forced its way into her yellow pegasus friend, enveloping her. Yellow light blinded them for a moment, before the pegasus had a golden necklace with a pink butterfly around her neck.

“O-oh my,” Fluttershy squeaked as she rubbed the necklace.

“Calm down, I can't, stop!” the avatar shrieked as honesty forced out from her now, slipping through her magic and into the orange earth pony. Applejack let out a shriek as an orange glow enveloped her and, after a few seconds, she stood before them with her own necklace, complete with an orange apple on the front.

“Well, whaddaya think?” the earth pony asked with a smile as she nudged her own.

“Gotcha!” Twilight squeaked as she wrapped her magic around generosity. It struggled in her control, wishing to slip out and leave with its brethren. “Hold on, hold on! Everypony okay?”

“Of course, Twilight,” Rainbow said with a smirk. “Don't just leave us hanging. One more, right?”

“Yep. Spike, are you ready?”

The dragon nodded, gulping nervously. “Of course. I'm ready for mine. I can handle it just as well as them,” he said with a hint of jealousy.

“Okay,” Twilight said as she released the element and sent it towards Spike. It entered the dragon and she quickly focused her eyes on him. Nothing happened. “Errr, Spike?”

“What?” the dragon asked as he stared at her.

“Is it... can you feel it?”

“I don't feel anything,” Spike mumbled. He looked down in confusion, before letting out a loud howl as he crumbled to his knees. His paws clawed at his scales as he collapsed onto the ground, rolling around as agonizing screams spewed forth. “Get it out! Get it out! It burns!”

“Spike!” Twilight shrieked as she moved to his side. White light enveloped the dragon as the screams stopped. After a few seconds the light stopped and the five ponies stared in horror.

The dragon was laying on his back, unmoving with eyes open and face contorted in pain. Every pigment in his scales had disappeared, leaving him completely white and colorless from head to toe. Twilight got on her knees and gently shook the baby dragon. “S-Spike?” she squeaked. He didn't move. “O-oh by the stars... w-what have I done?”

“Let me look at him,” Fluttershy said as she moved to gently place a hoof to the dragon's head. She then leaned in and closed her eyes, placing her head to his chest. “He... he's alive. I don't know if I can heal him though. We need... we need to find a healer. A better healer than me. We need to find Spitfire.”

“Then let's go,” Rainbow said as she reached for the dragon, but was blocked by Twilight's hoof.

“No. I'll carry him. This... this is my fault. My responsibility. I shouldn't have...” Tears formed in her eyes as she slowly reached down to stroke his ears. “Don't worry, Spiky. We'll... we'll cure you. I promise. We'll find a way to make sure you're okay. You're my number one assistant...” she whispered as she slowly picked up the dragon and laid him on her back. “Let's go. Cloudsdale would be... west. South west. Right?”

“Yes,” Rainbow mumbled and shook her head. “I'll fly off ahead, see if she can meet us.”

“No!” Fluttershy squeaked. “L-last time we separated, w-we got attacked by pirates and... and...”

“Relax,” the rainbow-maned pegasus said with a chuckle. “Seriously, what are the chances of pirates causing us problems again? Besides, Gilda got the job done. Like you told me before. No way she'd come again.” Not waiting for any more arguments, the mare took off into the sky, leaving them behind.

The sun dipped behind the mountains as Rarity roasted their dinner over a small fire. She occasionally glanced to Blueblood, who was laying on his side and soaking his hooves in the tiny stream they had found.

“I don't know how you mares manage to walk like this all day, it must be your bulk that allows you so much energy,” the stallion mumbled as he shook his hooves. Most of his wounds had healed and his fur was coming in nicely.

“We didn't walk that much,” the young princess grumbled. “What with us having to take constant breaks so you could catch your breath. Over. And over. And over.”

“Still. You both must be descended from earth ponies, with such thick legs for walking. I'm amazed you- ow!”

Rarity hmphed as she glanced at the fallen rock. “Hmmm. Wonder where that came from. Dinner is almost finished,” she said with an innocent smile.

“G-good...” the stallion grumbled as he rubbed the back of his head. He got up and walked towards them, dropping down by the fire. “You all must be so thankful that...” he froze mid sentence and slowly lowered his gaze. “No... Thank you very much for allowing me to come with you on this trip. For helping me when you had no need to.”

The young princess stared for a moment before smiling. “It was no problem. As a matter of fact, aside from the... many times you're rather condescending and rude, you're practically a delight.”

“What do you mean?” he snapped. “You should be thankful I... I... mean... sorry. It's... it is difficult at times.”

“You're getting there,” Rarity said as she held out a few roasted carrots. “Eat up and then go to bed. We'll see you in the morning.”

“Okay,” he mumbled as he took the carrots and curled up into a small ball, nibbling on them. The two mares ate as well, taking their time and occasionally glancing towards the stallion until, eventually, he dropped off into sleep, his meal finished.

“Well, he's done, are you ready?” the young princess asked.

“Patience, Diamondeye. At least wait until I've finished my dinner,” Celestia said with a smile as she slowly nibbled her carrots, taking her sweet time. “You always did make the best ones. So warm and juicy.”

“They're just carrots,” Rarity grumbled as she got to her hooves and trotted away. She moved upstream, laying down besides it with a sigh as she reached a hoof out and let the water cool it. After a few moments the gentle lull of the trickling liquid made her eyes heavy. She didn't know how long she had laid there when a hoof gently shook her shoulder.

“Niece?”

“W-what? I'm up!” Rarity said as she rolled on her back and looked up at her smiling aunt.

“I see. Now, shall we?” Celestia moved into the water and gathered some in front of her with her bending. “Now, poison bending is... different from normal bending. It is mixing the water with the most vile and dark of magics in order to create something new and evil. In fact, I am amazed that Trixie never knew how to use it.”

Rarity snorted, but nodded.

“Nightmare Moon and those who... share her corruption usually know how to use it. Discord's presence makes it far simpler. However, a normal pony can create it as well,” Celestia said as her eyes began to glow solid green as black and purple magic covered her horn and leaked from her eyes. The water began to shift and change, soon turning a dark purple. She cast the liquid aside, where it splashed against a few strands of grass, which quickly wilted and died. The elder unicorn panted as she lowered her head, groaning. “Such... such magic is dangerous and deadly. Countering it can be near impossible. While the effects on the skin are slight and do burn, the effects from it entering your body are far worse.”

“Of course. So, how do I perform it?”

“Patience,” the elder unicorn mumbled as she closed her eyes. “This spell is dangerous and deadly. You must... I don't wish to...” She shook her head. “You must... focus on anger. Hatred. A moment that causes the worst, darkest images imaginable to your mind. Thoughts that make you want to hurt a pony. Destroy a pony. Make you want... make you want to make them suffer. To scream.”

Rarity slowly looked up at her aunt. “What... what is your focus?”

“I don't want to speak of it,” Celestia snapped, before sighing. “Just... you must... focus on it. Gather the feelings and mix them with your magic. Feed the corruption into your very being. However... you must temper it. Control it. Direct it. You cannot allow it to overwhelm you. That is how you poison bend.”

“I... I see. I will... I will try my hardest,” the princess said as she closed her eyes and began her training. Her aunt watched for a moment, before turning away, tears in her eyes.

Blueblood awoke with a groan, blinking blearily as he looked around. Soft sobs reached his ears and he slowly got to his hooves. “Hmmm? Diamondeye? Jademane?” He didn't receive a response, so he began to walk towards the sounds.

The stallion found the two, the younger mare sobbing into the elder's coat.

“I'm a failure, I've never done anything right, I'm never going to do anything right. All I do is screw up everything and make it worse!” Rarity sobbed as she held onto her aunt's leg. “I can't even do a simple spell, I'm useless! I never should have been born... even when I finally have success and victory in my grasp, I constantly just let it slide through my hooves!”

Blueblood slowly walked towards them. “What's wrong? Why is she-”

“GO AWAY!” Rarity screamed as she turned to him, her eyes bloodshot and eyelashes matted with tears. “This... this is none of your business! Just go away!”

Anger flared in the stallion as he puffed his chest out. “How dare you speak to me like that, I'm... I'm...” he trailed off as he glanced into her hurt eyes and he slowly lowered his gaze. “I... I don't know what has you so upset, but... I don't think any of that's true. I mean, you're not a failure. You've been... you've been nothing but kind to me. Even though you... had no reason to. I mean. You've looked out for me, helped me. Tended to me when I was hurt...”

“M-my a-aunt did that,” the princess sobbed as she went back to her sobbing.

“No, you did too!” he said quickly. “You've both been very kind and compassionate. Both of you. I'd of... I'd of died, if not for the two of you. I don't think you're a failure. I think you're a very young, beautiful, compassionate mare and I'm sure whatever it is you have your heart set on you'll succeed, sorry bye!” the stallion said as he galloped away. He soon made it back to their camp site and dropped down, letting out a soft sigh. He then froze. “Wait, did she call her mother, her aunt?” he mumbled to himself as he looked back towards the two. He quickly shook his head. “No... I probably heard wrong. She was crying a lot and... I just heard wrong. That's it.”

Celestia held her niece as the tears continued to fall. Her hooves wrapped protectively against the young unicorn. “He is right, of course. You are a compassionate mare who is no where close to being a failure. You have had some bad luck in the past, but that does not make you a failure. This spell is... beyond you, however.”

“See? I knew it! I can't... I can't even do this one spell... it just... it just blows up i-in my face like everything else!” Rarity sobbed, trying her best to stifle the tears.

“No, it just means you've had to endure much in your life, and have become quite sensitive because of it. However... there is something else I can teach you. Something not even your sister knows. The only way to truly counter a poison bender.”

“W-what?” the young mare croaked as she looked up. “W-what? Are y-you just t-telling me this to... m-make me s-stop crying?”

“No. Niece, I believe you're ready. There is only one way to stop poison bending, to ensure it will not enter you. I will teach you blood bending.”

“Please Spike, wake up,” Twilight whispered as she held the unmoving white dragon to her chest as they nestled around the campfire. “Please, just say something, anything...”

“Twilight, you've been watching him all day. You should get some rest,” Fluttershy said as she laid on top of a cloud. “Here, I brought this cloud down, how about you get some sleep on it? It's nice and comfy. I-I can watch Spike.”

“No, I'm not leaving Spike's side,” the alicorn mumbled. “Not until... not until he's all better. He's my responsibility, he always has been. I should have known he wasn't the element of generosity. He was loyal, and kind, and sweet, and so many things,” she whispered as she held the dragon close, her wings moving to embrace him. “If you can hear me, I'm so, so sorry... I never wanted to hurt you. I just... I was so excited. I screwed up... please forgive me.”

Applejack gently placed a hoof on the avatar's back. “He would. If he was here, he'd forgive yah in a heart beat. Twilight, yah need tah get some sleep. You won't be doin' nopony any good if yah can't get any. We all are gonna need yah at a hundred percent if we're gonna kick this thing. And we are gonna kick this thing, over the moon if need be.”

Twilight smiled then looked to her left as a soft nuzzle caught her attention. She looked into the eyes of Pinkie, warm, wet and sad.

“I'm sorry I didn't see this coming,” the earth pony mumbled.

“It's okay. There... really isn't a tail shake for something like this,” the alicorn said as she cradled Spike to her chest as she laid down. “I'll... I'll see all of you in the morning. Sleep... sleep well.”

“To truly understand blood bending, you must first understand how to gather water,” Celestia said as she motioned down at a few flowers. “It is in the world all around us. In the air, plants, the dirt and, most importantly, inside living creatures.” The unicorn ran a hoof down her chest as she took deep breaths. “In order to blood bend, you must feel the water that flows through your veins. You must touch it, mold it. Once you are able to feel it, the next step will begin. From there you must be able to control it. Once you can control the blood in your veins, you can stop the poison from spreading through your body and, in some cases, use it to protect others from the same dangers. Even reflect it back on the wielder.”

“I see,” Rarity nodded as she looked down. “With such an art though, couldn't you use it to stop the blood pumping through ones heart? Even... errr...” she went quiet at the glare the elder mare was giving her.

“Perhaps. But, it would take a far greater bender than I to do such a thing. Controlling ones own blood is difficult enough, as is defending the blood of others. Attempting to actually use it offensively and in such a way... I couldn't imagine how a pony could perform such an art.”

“I-I see. So with this, I could be able to counter the power of poison bending?”

“Indeed,” the elder mare smiled as she watched the excitement alight her niece's eyes. “This art does not require evil magic or anything as such. All it requires is focus. Once you feel that you can sense the blood within you, we'll move onto the second step.”

“The second step?” Rarity asked with a cocked eye.

“Yes. Stopping blood,” Celestia glanced down at her niece and smiled. “Do not rush yourself though. This is an art that very few could learn, so it will take many nights of practice. But, I firmly believe that you will be capable of using it.”

“R-really?”

“Yes. Now, let us begin. Close your eyes and try to feel the water as it flows through these flowers...”

The sun once again began its ascent into the sky, casting its light across the back of a rapidly moving blue blur. It barely had time to finish coming from behind the large mountains, when the blur began descending towards the earth.

The blur smashed into the ground, bouncing twice before skidding along the ground and crashing into a nearby rock wall, letting out a loud pained groan in the process.

“Wha? Who? Whas goin' on?” Applejack asked as she sat up and looked around, struggling to blink away the tired from her eyes.

“Just.... g-give me a second...” Rainbow groaned from her position, upside down and embedded in a wall. “Need to... n-need to catch my b-breath...” Her coat was covered in so much sweat she gleamed in the sunlight. Her wings twitched randomly, steam rising from the abused limbs.

“Rainbow!” Twilight shrieked as she jumped up, still holding Spike in her arms. “What are you doing back so soon? There's no way you could have gotten there already, it was a... are you okay?”

“W-water,” the pegasus said with a groan as she breathed rapidly, her chest quickly rising up and down. Her friends quickly moved to help her up, drag her from the rocks and gave her a small canteen of water. The blue mare finished it in seconds before leaning back and closing her eyes. “O-okay. I... I flew at full speed. Got there... got there and... d-didn't even sleep. I told S-Spitfire what happened. She says there's likely nothing s-she could do. N-nothing a-any healer could do.”

“N-no,” the avatar squeaked as tears formed in her eyes. “But it's... it's my fault. I did this to him. We can't just... just let him suffer. We have to try to save him!”

“H-hold on... just... just need a moment to c-catch my breath,” Rainbow said as she collapsed backwards, tossing the canteen into the air. After a few more moments of rapid breathing, she raised a hoof. “There is... there is h-hope. There's a... there was... w-well over a h-hundred years ago. A-a really old fire bender. A-an avatar. She... she a-apparently m-made a t-temple or... or something. L-long ago. The magic and all that was... it... hold on,” the pegasus groaned as she struggled not to pass out. “Just... moment... we... we c-can find it. If... if we find it... might have i-information...”

“Why would it have information on these things?” Twilight asked as she watched her exhausted friend.

After a few moments to catch her breath, the pegasus started up again. “It was a s-sanctuary. Dedicated to... to studying the avatar. Everything a-about them. If there is any...” The mare slowly sat up with a groan. “If there is any information o-on it. On these elements, it'll be there.”

Twilight nodded as she looked down at Spike. “I... I see. I understand. We'll head there then. Do you know where it is?”

“Y-yup,” Rainbow groaned as she rolled onto her stomach, letting out a soft cry of pain when she tried moving her wings. “Why I... I flew back so f-fast. It's in the Earth Kingdom. It'll take a few days to g-get there, but we can do it. We just have to walk there. A lot of walking.”

“Fine, then we leave immediately!” the alicorn said as she turned to walk off. She stopped and glanced back to her exhausted friend, before shaking her head. “We leave as soon as I've finished making breakfast and you've had some rest. Fluttershy, can you hold Spike?”

Chapter 21: Forgotten knowledge

“Are you well?” Blueblood asked as he glanced back towards Rarity. The mare was snapped from her focus, glancing up at him.

“What?”

“Are you well? You keep staring off at trees and plants when we pass them. Are you sick? Do you want us to rest?” the stallion asked, concern in his voice.

“What? I... n-no. I'm fine. I've just got a lot on my mind,” she mumbled as she glanced down at another flower. Her horn glowed as she felt the water spreading through the stem and petals. She then turned to her aunt and the stallion, trying to sense the same water that flowed through them. The liquid refused to acknowledge her, eliciting an annoyed sigh from the mare.

“Am I bothering you?” Blueblood asked as he slowed down to walk besides her. “I'm sorry about what I said this morning. The breakfast you made was quite adequate. I mean, filling and d-delicious,” he choked on the words, before giving her a forced, twitching smile. “See? I loved it.”

Rarity chuckled and shook her head. “No, I'm not mad about that. You don't have to like whatever I cook. And, since you didn't throw a tantrum this time, it didn't bother me. I just have a lot on my mind.”

“Would you like to talk about it?” the stallion asked, before slowly nodding. “Oh, I think I understand.”

The princess glared. “I swear, if you say you think it's my time of the month again, I will throw you through a tree.”

The stallion gulped. “N-no. I m-merely meant we've been traveling for many d-days now and will soon be to Fillydelphia. I-I imagine you're getting quite... stressed about the whole thing. You never told me what you planned to do when we got there.”

“... We're starting a new home,” Celestia said quickly, before Rarity could speak. “We've been traveling long and far for a place we could feel safe. The great walls of Fillydelphia are truly a place of protection and peace.”

“I see,” Blueblood said with a nod. “I... won't be returning to my brethren when I arrive there. There's just... too much bad blood between us now. Would you two have any objections to me... ummm... allowing my presence to...”

“You can stay with us, for a bit,” Rarity said with a roll of her eyes. “So long as you maintain tolerability. If you start talking about 'mare's work' or bragging about how you're much too smart or strong to work for your food, you're out on your flank. Do you understand?”

“Y-yes. Sorry, I'll try my hardest,” the stallion mumbled as he lowered his head.

“So, you never told us about what happened once you escaped from the Water Nation?” the young princess asked as she glanced at the stallion.

He twitched. “Lots of things. I... I was hurt when I escaped. Badly. The Water Nation was trying to chase me, I had burns all over my body and, worst of all, I was exhausted. If it wasn't for... certain ponies I would have died. They were... they were kind and sweet. Merciful. Now I realize just how rude and insensitive I was to them, but they helped me none the less. Though, I still got slapped more times than I can count,” the stallion mumbled as he rubbed his cheek.

“I'm certain you deserved it,” Rarity said quickly, before cringing. “O-oh, sorry. I just meant that... errr...”

“No, no, you're right. I did. I've been working hard to improve myself since. I realize now just... just how badly I had treated everypony. Especially my tribe and the avatar.”

“The avatar? What did you do to the avatar?” Rarity squeaked as she stared at the stallion, her eyes wide. “You met the avatar? When? What happened?”

Blueblood sighed, “I... attacked her. I had it in my mind that only I could properly protect and maintain the fire tribes and everypony else could just fall to the wayside. However, I was wrong. I just couldn't see it until now.”

“W-well, I'm sure you had a good reason for attacking her. I mean-”

“Who could possibly have a good reason to attack the avatar?” the stallion asked with a sigh. “She is literally traveling across the world and facing every threat imaginable, just for a chance, a chance, that she might save us all. Any pony that attacked her would have to be a heartless monster who sides with the Water Nation.”

Rarity stumbled a few steps before glancing off to the side. “I-I see. Yeah, I... I suppose that makes sense. Silly... of me to question it.”

Celestia slowed down to walk besides her niece, nuzzling the young mare. “I'm sure there are some who hunt her for good reasons.”

“Pfft. I couldn't imagine any reason worth damning the rest of the world for,” the stallion grumbled.

“That's it,” Rainbow mumbled as she pointed off in the distance. The group of seven, including a baby bunny and comatose dragon, stood in a wide, barren wasteland. The few trees that stood were scattered and long dead, their bark peeled and rotting. The ground was hard and, in places, black. Rusted metal coated the land, long abandoned vehicles of war laid partially buried while the bleached bones of long dead ponies surrounded them. Across the dismal field, a single large tower stood, at least ten stories high and crafted almost entirely of metal, causing the sun to reflect off its shiny surface. At its peak, a large airship hovered, bearing the crossbones across its sail.

“That don't look good,” Applejack mumbled as they slowly walked towards the tower.

“Maybe it's... err... maybe they sold things?” Fluttershy offered.

“Maybe. Yah never... huh?” the orange earth pony glanced down at the ground, a confused look on her face. She tapped the ground twice, before shrugging. “Musta been mah imagination.”

“What?” Twilight asked as she continued walking, occasionally glancing back to ensure Spike was still on her back.

“Nothin', ah just thought ah... ah thought...” the pony paled. “No pony move,” she squeaked.

“What's wrong?” Pinkie asked.

“No pony move!” Applejack hissed as she looked down at the ground. “That's... that's a mighty big... okay. When ah give the word, everypony run,” she squeaked as she slowly lifted a hoof and pulled it back. A rock soared into the air and flew the opposite direction of them. The moment it hit the ground she placed the hoof down and ran. “Go go go!”

“What is it?” Rainbow asked as they all started running. The ground beneath their hooves began to shake rapidly as they kept running.

“Don't look back, just run!” the earth bender screamed as a tank suddenly landed in front of them, thrown from behind.

Twilight took a second to glance back as her eyes nearly bulged from her head. A massive purple scaled neck, almost as wide and long as the tower they were running to, had burst from the ground and was craning around. It turned to face them, revealing a pink head with a red mane. It watched them before its face split into three separate pieces, showing a few teeth and long, black tentacles that wiggled erratically. An ear piercing shriek filled the air as the creature dove head first into the ground in pursuit of them.

“It's big an' it ain't friendly! That's all we need tah know!” Applejack shrieked as they galloped towards the tower. The ground continued to shake under them as the monster rapidly approached. Twilight gulped and stopped.

“Fluttershy, take Spike. I'll hold it off,” she said as she held the baby dragon out with her magic.

“W-what? But it'll-”

“I have wings and I have fire! I'll be fine, just get there! Don't waste time!” the alicorn yelled.

The yellow pegasus gulped, but took the baby dragon and galloped off as well, occasionally glancing back. The avatar stood with both her hooves in the ground, waiting for the beast. It didn't disappoint. Its massive purple body reared up from the ground, bending its neck to glare down at the alicorn.

“Come on, you overgrown slug. Don't think I won't burn you to a crisp if you try anything!” Twilight snapped as she stared up defiantly at the creature. It opened its mouth and lunged down, trying to grip her with its massive tentacles. She let out a shriek and took to the air, narrowly avoiding the monster as it slammed face first into the ground, its open mouth unable to penetrate the dirt. It let out another angry shriek and turned its head to face the flying mare, letting loose another cry.

“Bring it on!” Twilight yelled as flames formed on her horn and she sent them searing across the monster's hide. The scales darkened slightly, but remained solid and strong. It coiled into a long spiral, watching the flying mare as she continued to pepper it with balls of flame. “That's right, focus on me,” she said as she watched the monster. “It's just you and me! Come on you guys, hurry up,” she grumbled as she looked to her friends. They were almost to the tower. “Good, now-” Darkness enveloped her as the beast's jaws snapped closed around her.

Flames burst from her horn as the monster spit her out, its mouth charred as it coughed and hacked. She slammed into the ground, her eyes wobbling from side to side as she tried to focus. “Ew ew ewwww,” she groaned as she got to her hooves. Her body was covered in the burnt residue of the monsters mouth. She glanced up and let out a shriek as the giant worm coiled up and leaped, attempting to crush her. The alicorn thrust her hooves up as a wall of stone formed in front of her, holding the creature just long enough for her to race to the side.

The wind and dirt caused from the creature's landing sent her toppling forward with a shriek, crashing head first into the broken remains of a tank. “Owie... hate this thing,” she whimpered. She tried to get up, but was suddenly yanked back. Black tentacles wrapped around her body as she let out a startled shriek, flailing about wildly. The blank tentacles wrapped tightly around her as they pulled her towards its mouth. “No! You! Don't!” she screamed as flames erupted from her body, covering every inch of her as the tentacles pulled back and the creature screamed in pain. The flames died as she took to the air, flying towards the tower as quickly as she could, even sending a burst of air bending behind her as she went.

A large door was open, her friends standing within. They motioned her forward as she flapped her wings wildly. Behind her, she heard the crashing sound of the beast's pursuit, knocking aside tanks, rocks and anything else it its way as it pursued her. She glanced back for a moment, shrieking as the monster's mouth opened again and it sent its long tentacles out to grab her. She dove around them and tucked her wings in, diving down as fast as she could towards her friends.

Her horn glowed as she pushed out with her air bending, bending the winds themselves as she descended, the world screaming past in a blur. She was going too fast as she tried pulling her wings out, unable to stop as she crashed bodily into Rainbow, sending the two of them crashing to the ground. The doorway slammed shut behind her.

“Well, that was fun,” Applejack said as she glanced at the two tangled mares. “Yah all okay?”

“My everything hurts,” Twilight muttered.

“I now know how a pancake feels,” Rainbow groaned. “Giddoff... ow...” Slowly the two untangled themselves and got to their hooves.

The alicorn began turning and examining the walls and pictures. The building had seen far better days, entire hallways having had collapsed from disrepair, pictures were now so damaged and faded she could only make out the smallest outline of a pony. Large bricks and rubble were littered across the floor. The carpet, at least what remained of it, was completely rotted through with curled edges. Even a statue of a striped pony had lost a leg and its ears from the destructive power of time. “Come on, let's go see who's here,” the avatar mumbled as fear entered her heart. “If any pony is.”

Each step left an imprint of their hooves in the thick dirt as they walked. The walls were covered in book shelves, but most were empty. Not even a single page of paper remained. “Hello?” she yelled out.

“Hello!” another voice echoed through the halls. The group froze.

“Was that my echo?” Twilight squeaked. “It didn't sound like my voice...”

“Ah don't think it was,” Applejack mumbled as she looked around. “Hello! Is somepony here? We're the avatar an' company! We dun mean yah any harm!”

Silence reigned for a few moments, before a loud voice echoed through the hall. “Avatar, please be still! I will be with you in mere moments!”

The five looked between each other, before letting out shrill sqwees of excitement. “They're here! They're here! They still exist!” Twilight shrieked as she hopped about in excitement.

“We didn't waste our time for once!” Rainbow said as she hopped around as well. She then stopped. “You know, now that I think about it, everything has been going well for us lately. First the fire benders, now these ponies being here...”

“Well, yeah, but we can't continue the story without Spike,” Pinkie said with a giggle. “He's like our mascot!”

“Our little, annoying, can't fight to save his life, mascot,” the blue pegasus said with a chuckle. The others all turned to glare at her. “What? It's all good, we're going to get him all better here, then it'll be back to normal. No need to get all upset and stuff.”

“Avatar!” a voice called. A one eyed stallion with a green coat and a glowing, but damaged, blue robe stood at the end of the hall. “I've been searching for you. I apologize for the state of our tower, it hasn't endured the years of darkness as well as we'd hoped.”

Twilight squealed as she clapped her hooves together. “You're one of the ponies who studied here? Yes!” she galloped forward and hugged the stallion. He squeaked. “Thank you thank you thank you! We need all the information you have on the elements. You see my friend, Spike.” She held up the baby dragon as the stallion's mouth fell open. “Has been hurt by them. I need to know how to fix him.”

“I... I see. Well, avatar, if you wish, please come with me,” the stallion said quickly. “Is... is that a dragon? I thought they were extinct.”

“Most seem to be,” Twilight mumbled as she held the dragon on her back. “But Spike is one of the last. Do you think you can help me?”

“O-of course! Please, turn him over to me and I will try some of the remedies I know. The tomes we guarded, however, are long buried in the lowest levels of this tower. If you can access them, they may have means by which to save your friend as well.” The stallion said as he kept looking at Spike. Twilight gently lifted the dragon onto his back.

“Oh, that reminds me. Outside, there was this massive purple worm thing. It, well, tried to eat us. Multiple times,” the alicorn grumbled.

“Ah, yes. That would be the Tatzlwurm. It guards our tower from invaders. All invaders. You'll be safe in here. I'll just take care of the dragon.”

“Okay,” she paused before glancing to the stallion. “That also reminds me of one other thing, in all the excitement I almost forgot. We saw a pirate's ship floating near the top of the tower. Are-”

“Oh! Don't worry about that,” the stallion said as he waved his hoof rapidly. “You see, uhhh, the wurm brought that vessel down years ago and we repaired it in order to bring supplies in and out from our tower.”

“Oh, okay,” Twilight said as she looked around. “So, how do we get to these lower levels?”

“Down the hall on the right. Head down the stairs and you'll find the blockage.”

“Okay,” the alicorn said as she started walking, flanked on either side by her friends.

“I-I'll go with Spike,” Fluttershy squeaked as she looked to the little baby. “I don't feel right leaving him alone without one of us.”

“What? Nonsense!” the stallion said with a wave of his hoof. “You should go with your friends. They-”

“Nah, it's fine,” Applejack said with a shake of her head. “We'd all feel a whole lot betta with Fluttershy watchin' the lil critter anyway. Wouldn't want him wakin' up and freakin' out.”

“O-of course,” the stallion said as he nodded. “I guess that-”

“Oh! I nearly forgot, silly me!” Pinkie said with a giggle. She then let out a heart shattering wail.

“W-what's wrong?” Rainbow squeaked as she backed up. “Are you hurt? Are you okay?”

“I-I'm just meeting s-so many new ponies now! I actually... actually forgot to get his name! How many hundreds, maybe even thousands, of ponies have I met now without getting their names? What about Fillydelphia? All those ponies!” the mare shrieked as her entire body shook.

“... So you're fine. Come on,” the pegasus grumbled as she started dragging the mare off.

“She does have a point though,” Twilight said as she glanced to the stallion. “My name is Twilight Sparkle, she's Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash,” she said as she pointed to each pony. “What's your name?”

“Coppertooth,” the stallion said as he quickly turned and trotted away with the baby dragon on his back.

“That's an... oh, well, ummm, bye,” the avatar said as she turned back around and started back after the other three. They began walking down the steps, though fortunately they were made of stone and, aside from a few cracks, were still in decent position. Twilight's horn lit up as they began leaving the light of the outside world, the depths filled with dust and torn cobwebs.

“Doesn't look like any pony has been here in ages,” Rainbow grumbled as she looked around. “How do we know he was saying the truth?”

“Why would he possibly lie?” Twilight asked with a shrug. “Besides, he took Spike to help him, it would have been a waste if he... oh dear.” The ponies stopped as they came to a stair block. The floor above had caved in, covering the stairs in wood, statue debris and torn portraits. “This will take a while to clear.”

“No it ain't,” Applejack said as she stomped her hoof. The ground in front of them shot up, the stones forming an archway which held the collapsed material above. Steps of dirt quickly formed to allow them to keep walking. “After yah all.”

“Heh. Maybe earth bending is a little cooler than I initially gave it credit for,” Rainbow said with a chuckle. “Still not as awesome as air bending though.”

“Well, if ah ever need tah send a buncha dirt in the air, ah'll go ahead an ask yah,” the earth pony said with a snicker as they continued on. They soon came to a cast iron doorway, covered in the image of an alicorn. A large keyhole was built in the side. The mare pushed on it, but it refused to move. “Well, don't that beat all. Hold on,” she said as she turned her back to it.

“Huh? No! Applejack, don't-” Twilight objected, but it was too late. With a powerful buck, the earth pony kicked the door open. Two of its three hinges tore out, making the door lean heavily on its side as dust billowed out from the room, enveloping them.

“T-there, hack, hold on,” Applejack said as she lowered a hoof and the dust parted down to the ground. “See? Easy.”

“I was going to say we could just ask Coppertooth for the key, rather than breaking their door.”

“Oh... well... err, right. Sorry. Heh heh. Well, let's see what we can find!”

The four walked into the room. Dust littered the area, however stacks upon stacks of books stood lined up against the walls. Safety lamps were lined up near the door, which the avatar quickly lit before snuffing her horn out. “Okay, try to find anything you can on the avatar and the elements of harmony.”

“Hee hee! Awwww...” Pinkie mumbled as she pulled out some books from the stacks.

“What?”

“It wasn't under E...”

“Okay then. Every pony else, get looking!”

Rarity sighed as she gently nudged the flower held in her hooves. Her aunt was cooking up some delicious grass and dandelion cakes a few feet from her. Blueblood was laying behind the princess, nibbling on a few of their travel rations while waiting. “Are you okay?” the stallion asked.

“Huh?” the mare asked as she looked up.

“You seem upset. Is it because of your... are you upset because of something I said?”

“Yes... no, nothing. I just need some time to think...”

“Mmm hmm. You should eat that, rather than play with it,” Blueblood said as he motioned to the flower she was nudging.

“Yes, I should,” Rarity muttered as she felt the water flowing within. She closed her eyes as she tried to feel the liquid as it pulsed through her veins. For a few seconds she could feel as it wiggled within her, flowing through her body, spreading its life down all the way to her hooves.

“Do you have a headache?” the stallion asked, shattering her concentration.

“What?”

“Do you have a headache?”

“No! I'm just thinking. Listen, will you just leave me alone? I'm trying to focus!” she finally snapped as she turned to glare at him. The stallion gulped nervously, but quickly nodded. “Thank you,” she growled as she got up, taking her flowers with her as she trotted away.

“Would you watch these, turn them when they begin to brown?” Celestia asked. Once the fire bender moved to help, the elder unicorn trotted after her niece. “Diamondeye, may we speak?”

Rarity groaned, but slowly nodded. “Fine, mother. What is it?” the two quickly trotted off, out of hearing range of the other pony.

“While I put very little belief in that stallion's perceptual abilities, he is correct. You seem quite upset now. Please, tell me what it is...”

“I... I think I'm getting the hang of blood bending. I could feel it when it... flowed through me,” the princess mumbled.

“What? That's marvelous news! Why ever would it make you upset? You're learning quite quickly. In fact, tonight I can teach you the next step.”

“I'm not... I'm not upset because of that. I'm upset because of... because of what he said. Am... am I a monster? I'm trying to-” she was silenced as a hoof covered her mouth.

“Niece, never think you are such a thing. Your reasons for pursuing the avatar are your own. However, again and again you have made the right decision, sacrificing your own happiness in order to protect others. While I do not expect you to ever give up on the avatar, I know that no matter what happens, I can always depend on you to make the right decision. You are no monster, you are just a young mare still trying to make her way in the world and do the right thing. All facts to be honest... you're probably doing a better job of it than I did at your age.”

Rarity smiled slightly as she glanced down. “Thank you. I... I really needed to hear that. Tonight I... tonight, let's try the next step of my training, okay? I want to get to the point I'll never have to worry about Sweetie's bending again.”

“Of course. Now that you can feel the blood coursing through you, controlling it should be far simpler. Now, how about we return to our meal?”

“Of course,” the princess mumbled as she trotted back, giving her aunt a gentle smile as they walked.

“Fascinating,” Twilight gasped as she flipped through one of the books.

“What is it?” Rainbow asked as she dusted off another book, opened it, then tossed it aside.

“I've found the diary of the avatar who was studied. Apparently her name was Clover and she found a way to use the elements by herself. Without having the other five,” the alicorn mumbled. “It might be one of the reasons this tower was made.”

“Really? How she gone an' done that?” Applejack asked as she tossed a book down.

“I'm not sure yet. I've seen mention of their use to fight spirits but...” she trailed off as she flipped through the pages a few more times. “She was apparently... quite scared of being around others. Afraid to involve them in these affairs.” The alicorn moved to the steps and laid the book down. “That's very strange though.”

“Why?” Rainbow asked as she tossed another book down.

“If I remember my history, there was peace during Clover's time. I don't see why she would be scared of making friends. Here, listen to this line. 'More visitors came. They asked for my help in mediating a dispute between them and another village. Afterwards they asked me to stay for a celebration. They refused to accept my answer of no, and I eventually had to force them to accept it. I ran away after that, I hope they'll finally just leave me alone. I never asked to be the avatar.' It's not the only entry like that, either.”

“Well, maybe this one'll help,” Applejack said as she tossed another book down. “Apparently it was the journal by the pony who started this tower.”

“And I found her autobiography!” Pinkie said as she hopped over and tossed the ancient tome down.

“Well, that's three. Huh...” Twilight looked down at her herself, then at her friends. All were covered from head to hoof in dust. She coughed slightly before shaking her body. “Maybe we should go check on Spike first. It's probably pretty late now.”

“Anything to get away from all this dust, ugh,” Rainbow grumbled as she dashed up the stairs ahead of them.

“Heh. Always so energetic,” Twilight mumbled as she started trotting up, the three books rising onto her back as the lantern dangled by her head. Eventually she came to a window and glanced out, the sky filled with stars and the moon. “Maybe we were down there a bit long.”

“TWILIGHT!” Rainbow screamed.

The alicorn froze for a moment, before galloping up the stairs. “Rainbow, where are you? What's wrong?”

“Just, hurry up!” the pegasus yelled.

The avatar ran up and down halls, attempting to navigate though the tower. She soon made it to the top floor, and froze. Fluttershy was standing there, hugging Angel tightly to her chest with tears in her eyes. Torn ropes laid on the floor. Rainbow was looking out the window frantically.

“Where's Spike?” Twilight asked.

“T-twilight,” Fluttershy squeaked as she lowered her eyes. “I-I tried to stop them, but-”

“Wheres Spike?” the avatar repeated as her body began to tremble.

“T-they took him!” the pegasus shrieked as she lowered her eyes and sobbed. “I-I tried to s-stop them, but he had friends! T-they s-snuck up behind me a-and tied me up, and Angel!” Tears flowed down the mare's face as she covered them with her hooves. “T-they were pirates, p-pretending to b-be the p-ponies maintaining t-the place! T-they were moving a b-bunch of chests a-and crates a-and they took everything a-and left!”

“Oh by the stars,” Twilight ran to the roof, looking out. “We need to go after them. Which way did they go?”

“I-I don't know,” Fluttershy squeaked as she looked down. “T-they t-tied me up a-and I didn't see anything else e-except what t-they moved through here. I just... I'm sorry...”

“It's not your fault,” the avatar mumbled. “It's mine. I should have been here. Buck it!” she screamed as she stomped a hoof down. “He was my, is my responsibility! How could I let him down twice like this?”

“Easy sugarcube, this ain't your fault. Come on, they couldn't ah gone...” Applejack trailed off. “We'll find 'em. That was a pirate ship, only a few places they coulda gone.”

Twilight perked up instantly. “Y-you're right! They have to be going to that cloud city! There were a lot of other pirate ships there. Yes!”

“Do yah think yah can find your way back there?”

“Yes! Maybe. No, I can. I have to. Spike... Spike is depending on me. Okay, here's what we do. First, we get out of here. Applejack, can you lock the books up downstairs? I don't want them getting hurt while we're gone. We'll take these three with us. Now, hum...” she looked around at the ragged curtains that lined some of the windows. “We'll make a net to carry you two across,” she said as she glanced to the two earth ponies. “That way we don't have to deal with the... tatzlewurm. I think that's what it was called? Anyway. We'll then get away from it, and head to the pirate's home. Everypony good with that?”

“Got it!” Applejack said as she darted downstairs again.

“No problem,” Rainbow said as she flew up and began unlatching the curtains from the windows.

“Good! Don't worry, Spike. We're on our way,” the avatar said as she glanced out the window one last time before flying up to help with the curtains.

“It's... r-really hard,” Rarity groaned as she glanced down at her hoof. A few drops of blood had leaked down her leg, but slowly they were traveling back up. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she struggled to maintain her concentration. The crimson liquid slowly lifted up her leg and hovered in the air a few inches from her body, before dropping to the ground. The princess fell over, panting. “S-so h-hard...”

“You've done marvelous, niece. It'll become easier with time, but now all you need is to practice. Then-”

“Diamondeye? Jademane?” a voice called from behind them, making them both jump.

“W-what is it?” Rarity shrieked as she glanced towards Blueblood, who was staring at them in confusion.

“I saw the two of you up, what are you doing so- you're bleeding!” he said as he rushed forward, moving to take her hoof. “What happened? Are you okay?”

“What? I'm fine,” she hissed as she yanked her hoof back, red in her cheeks. “I just tripped, nothing serious.”

“It's not going to slow us down any, is it?” the stallion grumbled.

Her eyes narrowed, before she reached out and slapped him.

“Ow! Why did you do that, you harlot? You... eep,” he squeaked as he backed away, the mare charging forward to glare into his eyes.

“Listen you... you ruffian! We've done nothing but help and tend to you since we've met. We've fed you, kept you safe, even allowed you to camp with us. Then you have the nerve to talk about our... woman times and pretend for, almost a moment, to be somewhat concerned and a decent pony! Only to slap me in the face and whine about your own precious time!” The stallion bumped into a tree, forced to bend himself as much as possible as the mare came ever closer. “If this is what you're like after 'learning about the world' or however you put it, I'd hate to have seen what you were like before!”

“I... I-I...” the stallion squeaked.

“Well, what do you have to say for yourself?” she snapped as she stared into his eyes with a burning fierceness.

“I'm... I'm sorry. You're right. I didn't mean... I just... I was g-genuinely c-concerned you got hurt. But, just, that was the first thing that occurred for me to say. I-I'm sorry I didn't mean to sound so... to be so rude. Please forgive me,” he mumbled as he hung his head.

Rarity sighed, before slowly nodding and pulling back. “Fine. You're forgiven. But I swear, if you talk about me like that, one more time, I'll clean the camp with your mane after I sheer it off.”

“O-of course. Yes'm...” Blueblood mumbled as he darted away from the angry mare, moving back towards the dying embers of their campsite.

“That was quite interesting,” Celestia said as she trotted up behind her niece. “I think I'm beginning to like him.”

“Huh? Why? He's an annoying brat who has no idea what the world is like,” Rarity grumbled.

“Indeed. But, he makes you angry. You're so much more adorable when you're angry, than when you're sad,” the elder unicorn said before trotting away towards the camp.

“Oh, aren't you just hilarious?” the young princess said dryly as she rolled her eyes and followed after the two.

Chapter 22: Perilous Heights

“Careful!” Applejack shrieked as she held onto the heavily damaged assortment of curtains. She and Pinkie were now flying hundreds of feet above the ground, though her face was losing color by the second. “A-ah think that's far enough!”

“We've barely made it out the window,” Rainbow growled as she held onto her third of the makeshift carrier. “Just hold on and relax. We'll be out of here in no time. If you really want us to put you down, get Twilight and Fluttershy to fly faster.”

“I'm flying as carefully, and quickly as I can!” the alicorn snapped. “We can't all be super barrier breaking flyers like you. Besides, if we go faster, we might tear the curtains.”

“Don't go faster!” the nervous earth bender squealed as she held on.

Meanwhile, Pinkie hopped up and down a little as they went. “Weeee! It's like a trampoline! Or a giant flying hammock! Ohhhh! I can see my house from here! Well, not really. But I bet I could if we didn't have all the mountains in the way! Hey, you don't think this will turn out like one of our hot air balloons, will it?”

“Don't say that!” Twilight squeaked.

“W-why? What happened to all your hot air b-balloons?” Applejack asked with a squeak.

“Oh, my tail was a twitching and then they crashed! Well, fell. Or got hit by lightning. Or fire. Or arrows. Or-”

“Pinkie! She gets the point! We're not a balloon though, so don't worry,” Rainbow said with a roll of her eyes.

Applejack stared up, her face almost as white as a ghosts. “A-ah'm goin' tah fall to mah death... no pony auta d-die like that. D-deserve tah die with the dirt an' grass under mah hooves like any pony else...”

“Oh, don't worry, that only happens if my tail is twitching!” Pinkie said with a giggle as she held up her tail, the pink puff gently blowing in the breeze.

“It's twitching!” the orange mare screamed as she gripped the cloth as tightly as she could.

“No, silly! It's just billowing. There's a biiiiiig difference. Mmmm hmm! Here, see? Twitching is like this!” Her tail twitched from side to side. “Billowing is like this!” Her tail gently moved around in the breeze, the air circulating around it. “See?”

“S-so we're n-not going to fall to our- AHHHHH!” the earth pony screamed as a loud crash echoed through the air. “Lightning!”

“Actually, that's the wurm,” Rainbow said with a snicker as she looked down. “Don't worry, it didn't come close to getting us.”

“Ahhhh! I don't wanna dieeee like this!” Applejack whined as she tightened her legs around the cloth. The sound of a light tear filled the air, making her freeze.

“Careful, you keep tugging on it like that and you will break it,” Rainbow growled.

“Hee hee! Ohhhh, you should pull on it and toss us into the air, it would be like we're flying! Weeee!” Pinkie squealed with delight.

“If yah do I swear ah'll break every bone in your wings the moment ah touch the ground!” Applejack screamed as she tightened her grip on the cloth, trying to ignore the occasional sound of tearing fabric.

“Don't worry, Applejack. Nothing will happen, I promise,” Twilight said as the worm below lunged once again, though it came nowhere near reaching.

“Mgggl?” Rarity grumbled as the light scent of daisies assaulted her nostrils. She slowly opened her eyes and stared in bewilderment at the pile of flowers that laid on the ground in front of her. “What are... huh?”

“I-I'm really sorry,” Blueblood said gently as he hung his head, standing behind a nearby tree.

“What?”

“I'm sorry for what I've done. What I've said. You're right, you and your mother have done so much for me, and I've been continuously rude. I... I just wanted to give you a gift. I've noticed you staring at flowers a lot when we travel so... I went and grabbed some for you.”

“I... what? Oh, thank you,” the princess mumbled as she glanced at the flowers, her horn glowing as she tossed some of them aside. “These ones are poisonous.”

“O-oh... that... explains the rash. I really am sorry for what I said before. You're right. You two have been nothing but kind to me, and I've thrown it in your face repeatedly. I just... I'm going to try harder. I really am. I may not... I may not be the best at it, but I'll do my best not to be a bother to you. I'm sorry...”

“I see,” she mumbled softly before frowning. “Wait a moment. Rash? Blueblood, come out from behind that tree.”

“I'd really rather not,” he squeaked.

“Blueblood! Come out here, now!” she snapped. The stallion galloped forward, standing at attention. His front legs were covered in bright red welts, making her pale. She face hoofed and shook her head. “You daft stallion. Jademane, wake up!”

“Huh?” the elder unicorn grumbled as she sat up. “W-what's going on? I was dreaming of little bunnies...”

“Of course you were. Look at Blueblood's legs. He's covered in... things.”

Celestia yawned, but slowly glanced down at the hooves. Her brow creased as she shook her head. “It'll be fine. Just head down to the stream and wash your legs. It'll be itchy for the next day or so, but as long as you don't scratch it, there won't be any permanent marks.”

“A-are you sure?” he squeaked.

“Yes. It's just some poison daisies, causing a mild irritation. By tomorrow, most of the red marks should be gone. Just make sure you clean it thoroughly, in cool water. Understand?”

“Yes ma'am!” he said as he galloped away, soon the sound of splashing water could be heard.

The elder mare glanced to her niece and cocked an eye. “Where did all those flowers come from?”

“These? Oh, they were just... a gift. From him. He was apologizing for his earlier behavior,” Rarity mumbled as she looked off to the side and blushed.

“I see,” Celestia said with a gentle smile. “Believe you have scared him straight with your nice fury?”

“He was being rude, and I was merely expressing my discontent. Go back to bed, it'll be dawn soon,” the princess grumbled.

“Mmmm hmm. Indeed it will. Night, Diamondeye... he's not quite so bad, when he's apologetic, is he?” A loud crack filled the air as pain shot through Celestia's flank. “Ow!”

“Oh, I'm sorry, I was merely testing how much water I could gather from the grass,” Rarity said with an innocent smile as she let the water whip melt into the grass.

“Very well, niece. If you wish to play such a violent game,” the elder unicorn said as she got to her hooves. “We shall play.”

“Huh? Errr... what are you doing?” the young princess squeaked as she got up and backed away.

“Vengeance!” Celestia cried as she jumped on top of her niece, pinning her for a moment. Her hooves lashed out rapidly. “Tickly vengeance!”

“NOOOO! Eeee hee hee hee! Stop! No! Please stop! Eeee hee hee hee!” Rarity giggled helplessly as she wiggled about. “Stop, I'll do whatever you want! You can even have your kazoo back! Just stooooooop!”

“Oh thank you thank you thank you! So beautiful, so wonderful, so soft and loving...” Applejack squealed with delight as she hugged, kissed and stroked the grass under her. She even rolled onto her back and wiggled against it. “Never flying again. Nuh uh. I don't care what the reasons are, just no. Ponies weren't meant to be in the air!”

“Some of us are. We weren't flying that long,” Rainbow grumbled with a roll of her eyes. “Come on, it'll be dawn soon and we need to get going. Twilight, which way?”

The alicorn frowned as she looked off into the distance. After a few moments she nodded, and pointed. “Okay. I believe it should be... south-east. It'll likely have moved slightly, but we should be able to track it around that direction. Let's go.”

The group began their walk, leaving the wrecked curtains on the ground behind. “What if they didn't head there?” Rainbow asked.

The alicorn stumbled, her hoof catching on the grass. “I... I don't know. Ask around? Pay them? Oh, wait. We don't really have much money. How do we never have any money?” she grumbled.

“Because ponies keep giving us everything we need?” Rainbow said with a shrug. “Not like we'd keep it for long. We barely make it a few miles before we have a crash or something and everything is lost.”

“That's... not... what happens... every time,” Twilight grumbled as she lowered her gaze. “We do crash once in a while though...”

“Name one mode of transport, aside from walking, that has lasted more than three days,” the pegasus said with a snicker.

“Fiiiine! We crash every time, but nopony ever gets hurt! I mean, three of us have wings now, and two don't. So we can always catch each other.”

“Ah'm never goin' on any hot air balloon, blimp or any other mode of flyin' transportation with you lot,” Applejack grumbled.

“We're getting better! I mean, we... oh. You don't think the captain will still be mad that we kinda got his ship blown up, do you?” Twilight asked nervously.

“After Spitfire talked to him about compensation? I don't think he cared. I think his eyes actually turned into bits for a moment there,” Rainbow said with a snicker. “How long should it take to get there, anyway?”

“I don't know... a day? Two? Maybe three? We'll get there when we get there... then we'll save Spike and everything will be okay.”

“Well, if we can find out how to save him from the element of... which was that?”

“Generosity...” Twilight said with a soft sigh. “I kinda wish it had just... disappeared like the others did,” she grumbled as she rubbed her forehead, the crown long gone. Even if she could still feel it within her, waiting for her to call it out.

“Don't worry,” Fluttershy said as she walked over and gently put her wing over the alicorn. “We'll find him, and we'll fix him. It's what we do.”

“Yes, yes it is,” Twilight said with a happy smile. “Don't worry, Spike. We're coming for you.”

Days passed quickly, until Rarity and her group stared up at the massive wall of Fillydelphia. “There it is,” she said with a gentle sigh. “Behind that, lies our new home, and the avatar. Blueblood, I can hear you scratching your legs, if you do it one more time I'm going to tie them together and drag you through the dirt. We're close enough now.”

“B-but they're so itchyyyy!” the stallion whined. “I thought you said it would go away quickly?”

“I suppose you just didn't clean it properly,” Celestia said as she cocked an eye. “The redness is mostly gone at least. If you hadn't spent the last two days constantly scratching it, it would be completely gone by now.”

“Guhhhh!” the stallion groaned as he tried trotting ahead. He froze as his eyes looked down at the large line that stood in front of the wall. “Oh... my... I think this could take... a while.”

The line stretched out from the wall and past many of the fields. Dozens, possibly hundreds, of ponies pulling carts and other transports stood in a line and were being examined by a number of earth ponies. “I guess we'd best get in line,” Rarity grumbled as she trotted forward. “Today marks the first day of our arrival in Fillydelphia. Let's not waste it gawking at a long line.” The three made their way to the end and waited.

The line was moving, fortunately, quickly. Every few minutes it would move forward a few ponies lengths. Unfortunately, it was still very long. The sun slowly crossed the sky, starting at high noon and, as the wall finally began to tower over them, beginning the first signs of dusk.

A brown earth pony, with a yellow mane, was examining one of the many ponies contents before shaking her head and marking it off on her clipboard. “I told you, no outside food! We are a self-sustaining fortress, anything your food brings in could cause untold damages. HIYA!” she slammed her hoof down, as a pillar of dirt shot up and sent the cart of muffins flying into the air. It crashed down a few yards from Rarity, eliciting a gasp from the mare.

It's owner, a gray pegasus with wide, yellow eyes and a yellow mane, galloped forward with a cry as her eyes crossed in two random directions. “My muffins!”

“Don't worry, Derpy,” a brown earth pony with a dark brown mane said besides her. “It'll be okay. We'll make new muffins.”

The mare with the clipboard finally let the two in, before turning towards Rarity and friends. The three ponies cringed. “Now, my name is Ms. Harshwhinny. I'll be evaluating you today. I trust you have your identifications?”

The two mares froze, but the stallion smirked. “Leave this to me,” Blueblood said as he moved forward and took the mare's hoof, gently drawing it to his lips and kissing it. “Hello, Madam Harshwhinney. A shame such a beautiful mare such as yourself is stuck out here in the searing heat.”

“I-I, what?” she squeaked with bright red cheeks.

“I'm afraid I do not have any sort of identification. You see, I'm a member of the fire tribes,” his horn burst into flame for a moment as he smiled gently to her. It burnt out after a second. “However, I'm sure we could work something out? I'd be more than happy to discuss it with such a fine, radiant pony such as yourself.”

She turned bright red and lowered her gaze. “I-I see. Err, j-just mark down your n-names and, ummm, m-make sure you don't have any f-food. W-we're a-allowing special e-exceptions for fire benders. You may g-go. Just, err, y-yes...”

“Why thank you,” Blueblood said as he signed their names and blew the mare a little kiss, before they trotted inside.

“I'm going to pretend I didn't see that,” Rarity grumbled.

“It got us in, didn't it?” the stallion asked nervously. “I was just trying to help...”

“You did wonderfully,” Celestia said with a soft chuckle. “Which was good, because I don't believe any of us have any form of identification. Now, let us try to find a place we can stay. Our new lives begin now.”

“By the stars,” Twilight whispered as her hoof covered her mouth. “I... I can't believe this...”

The setting sun cast its light across the shattered, torn land. Shattered ships, buildings and roads covered the ground, littered as well by the bodies of fallen ponies and griffons. Puddles of water had formed over every hole, ditch and crevice. The alicorn gulped as she stepped forward, a light splash under her hoof. She looked down and let out a shriek, the puddle she stepped in dyed red with blood. “GAHHHH!” the mare screamed as she stepped back, shaking her hoof back and forth.

“What... what happened here?” Fluttershy squeaked as she covered her eyes with one hoof, Angel's with the other.

“The Water Nation,” Rainbow said as she flew over to one of the armor covered corpses, nudging it off the remains of a tank. Its lifeless body collapsed to the ground. Her eyes went wide as she began circling the area quickly. “Gilda!” she screamed out.

“Rainbow has the right idea,” Twilight said as she glanced back. “Spread out, search for survivors. We need to know exactly what happened here.”

“On it,” Pinkie said with a salute as she trotted off, steering clear of the bloodier areas.

“Wait, where did Applejack go?” the avatar asked as she looked around. The earth pony was nowhere in sight. “Applejack!” She flew into the air and quickly scanned the area. She caught sight of the farmer hiding by some trees, her head rested against the trunk with a small pool of... evacuated stomach contests under her. The alicorn landed behind the mare. “Applejack, what's wrong? Are you sick? Did something happen?”

“S-sick? How can yah all not be affected by that... by all that? It's a slaughter out there! Yah know how many ponies probably died there? It's worse 'an... worse 'an... back home...”

“Back home? What do you...” Twilight trailed off as realization dawned on her. “You mean... because of what happened at... oh...” She trotted to the mare and placed a wing over her shoulder. “I'm sorry... these... I mean. We've seen... the Water Nation has destroyed a lot. We've seen...” she trailed off as she hung her head. “You're right. We've never seen one quite like this. It's usually far more... we've heard of it. Seen smaller amounts of death. But... I guess... I don't know.”

“Yah all act like this is a common occurrence! Yah know how many dead there are down there?”

“No. And, we really don't want to know. We can't... we need to act. Quickly. That's why we do what we do. We aren't really allowing ourselves to... to notice all of it. I guess. Even Fluttershy has been training herself to push through. Because if we don't, more will die.”

“W-what? Yah all need-”

“We need to find the wounded,” Twilight interrupted. “We need to find out where the Water Nation is heading next. We need to warn ponies. Because if we don't, no pony else will. We're the only ones here who can save these ponies... and griffons. It's horrible that any of them had to die, but we can't allow ourselves to notice. To focus on it... not... not yet.”

“Yah all are a lot more stubborn than I gave yah credit for...” Applejack grumbled as she shook her head. “Ah guess ah-”

“No,” the avatar said as she patted the earth pony on the back. “Leave this to us. You.... well, you need to rest. You aren't... things are just going to get worse from here, probably. You haven't been through... all we have yet. You need to acclimate. Otherwise-”

The farmer knocked the hoof away. “Ah ain't gonna waste time wid that. You're right. Ponies need us, an' ah ain't gonna let 'em down just because ah got a lil jumpity in the stomach. Come on, let's git.”

Twilight smiled and nodded.

“FLUTTERSHY!” Rainbow's voice suddenly echoed through the air. The two ponies looked at each other, before galloping towards the voice. They soon found the blue pegasus, now covered in dirt and mud, standing over an all too familiar griffon.

“Gilda,” Twilight whispered as she stared at the wounded bounty hunter. A large chip was missing from the creature's beak and a hole had been pierced through her right wing. One of her legs was bent at an awkward angle, obviously broken. However, she was breathing and her eyes were opened into narrow slits.

Fluttershy arrived a second later, her hooves moving over the griffon. “Heh... long time no see,” Gilda rasped.

“Heya slowpoke,” Rainbow said as she looked down at the wounded pirate. “Heard you were causing a bunch of trouble when I was gone. What was that all about, sad because I wasn't there to visit you?”

“Pfft. I woulda d-done a lot w-worse if your... your ugly mug had been there,” the griffon rasped. She coughed a few times, sending saliva over the yellow pegasus. To her credit, Fluttershy didn't flinch. “W-what... brings the... lot of you mangy ponies h-here?”

“Pirates,” Twilight said softly as she stepped forward. “They foalnapped Spike. He was wounded and... Gilda?”

The griffon broke into a coughing and wheezing fit, her body convulsing wildly. She went still a moment later. Rainbow whimpered as her ears went flat. “Is... is she dead?”

“No,” Fluttershy said with a smile. “She's hurt, badly. But she'll live. She needs rest. We should move her away from all of...” she trailed off as she looked around, her face paling. She looked down at her hooves, covered in mud, dirt and blood. The pegasus's eyes rolled back in her head as she collapsed backwards.

Pinkie caught her with a cringe. “I'll get her out of here. You two move the big ol' mean griffon, okay?”

“Ah'll do it,” Applejack said as she tapped the ground and a small table of dirt shot up and began moving the creature. “You two jus' see if yah can find any more wounded.”

“But-” Rainbow started, but was cut off by Twilight shaking her head.

“Come on,” the alicorn said. “It'll be dark soon, and it'll be a lot harder to find any hurt ponies then. Let's go.” She took off into the air, the pegasus grudgingly following a moment later.

“They came outa nowhere,” Gilda growled as she gently sipped water from a cup. “Was clear skies, then all of sudden pegasi were flying at us and the clouds were disappearing under our claws. Within moments the city was crashing down. I managed to get out in time, but a spike of ice pierced my wing and I got slammed from behind. I crashed to the ground then. Lost consciousness after that.”

The five ponies and griffon sat around a large campfire, holding the nights coldness at bay. “How many got away?” Twilight asked.

“No idea,” the griffon said with a shrug. “I suppose any ships that were prepped to leave had a decent chance. Really not much we coulda done. I saw the size of that force, there was no way we could have hoped to fight them. Running was our only chance”

“They headed north, towards Fillydelphia,” Applejack grumbled.

“Huh? How could you tell?” the alicorn asked.

“Trust me, ah know stampede tracks when ah see 'em. Only reason we didn't see the signs is we came in from a completely different angle.”

“They won't be able to get through that wall,” Twilight mumbled. She then glanced to Gilda. “The dragon. Did any pirates arrive with a baby dragon?”

“Possibly, but I don't think so,” the griffon grumbled. “They'd have probably headed to Fillydelphia or to the Water Nation. Only real places to sell cargo like that. Find a zoo or something. Might have got caught up in this assault, too. Recognize any of those ships?” She motioned towards the assortment of crashed vehicles.

“No, but it could be,” Twilight mumbled. “We'll head to Fillydelphia then. We have to warn them of this attack. If Spike is there, we'll find him there.”

“And if he was taken to the Water Nation, or captured by that force?” Rainbow asked.

“We'll head to Fillydelphia in the morning,” the avatar repeated as she rolled over, placing her back to the flame.

“I wouldn't worry too much about your dragon,” the griffon mumbled. “Your chances of finding him are next to impossible. Best to just leave him.”

Far from the sleeping ponies, a small earth pony cowered in the corner of a metal cage. Flowerbloom glanced around nervously, occasionally nibbling on her lower lip as she watched the shadowbolts that pulled her cage across the ground. The massive army of the Water Nation stood ready on either side of the cage, watching her as she passed them by. Many stared at her in confusion, wondering what was going on.

The cage eventually stopped, deep in the heart of the Water Nation forces, in front of a tank. Sweetie Belle quickly appeared in the top, her eyes narrowed. “Shadowblade, what is the meaning of this? Why is Flowerbloom imprisoned, release her immediately!”

“It would do me no greater pleasure, your highness. Except, I cannot,” the shadowbolt said as she bowed her head. “This earth pony stands accused of high treason against the Water Nation.”

“I... what?” the unicorn asked as confusion clouded her face. “She is my friend. She would never betray me, or the Water Nation.”

“If only that was true. However,” the pegasus turned and motioned towards the earth pony with a single hoof. “You see, your highness. Flowerbloom has been hiding what she is for a very long time. Lying to you and all of our great nation. Because, your highness, Flowerbloom is an earth bender!” she yelled out the final words as the crowd erupted into cries of disbelief.

Chapter 23: Viscious Trial

“I've made a horrible mistake coming here...” Rarity groaned as she stared at, quite possibly, the worst thing she had ever, and would ever, see. Her future. It had far too much poofyness. “I am not serving tea!” she finally shrieked.

“Awwww, but you'd look absolutely adorable!” Celestia whined as she smiled at the little princess. She was wearing an adorable black poofy dress with a tea cup emblazoned on the chest. “Blueblood, don't you think she'd look adorable?”

The stallion's face turned bright red as he suddenly seemed fascinated by his hooves. “I have no comment either against, or for, this particular form of action. In fact, I think I'll stick out of it.”

“Why doesn't he have to get a job?” the princess asked with a groan.

“Oh, he is,” the elder unicorn said with a smile. “He'll be wearing one as well. It was part of the terms of us living in the back of the shop. Two servers and my special tea. Now come along, we can change in the back. Blueblood, you too.”

The fire bender just stared, his mouth agape, unable to speak as both unicorns were dragged, unceremoniously, into the tea house, past the tables and into the back area. Despite Rarity's objections, the back of the tea house was moderately spacious, two large open rooms(though one had plenty of tea storage) with a few pieces of furniture. They were even allowed to use the kitchen.

“I don't see why we have to do this,” the young mare grumbled. “You're the one who made the fancy tea, we don't know anything about those things.”

“That's why you two are serving. Now come on, get to work. Don't... snrk...” Celestia covered her mouth as she struggled to hold back her laughter. Blueblood, now wearing the black, poofy dress, stared up at them.

“This... this looks horrible,” the stallion groaned as his ears went flat. “Can I please take execution instead?”

“... Okay, no,” Rarity said as she moved over to him. “I need a comb and some make up. If he's going to wear this, I'm going to ensure he looks good wearing it. First, I'll have to curl your hair and maybe some eye lash extensions. Then-”

“Bah hah hah hah hah!” Celestia shrieked with mirth as tears formed in her eyes. “W-wouldn't it be easier t-to just alter the d-dress?”

The young princess blinked a few times. “Really? I didn't think we were allowed to edit them. Are you sure?”

“Please,” Blueblood said with a whimper as he hunched down, ears flat on his head. “D-don't turn m-me into a mare.”

“Fiiiine, I'll need some thread, fabric and scissors.”

“Eep!”

“For the gown, not for you!” Light began to fill the young water bender's eyes as she unceremoniously tore the gown from the stallion's body, eliciting an embarrassed cry. “Now... how to best bring out your... struggling charm.”

Celestia shook her head as she turned back towards the entrance. “Hee hee. You two have fun. Just be sure the... outfit is ready by tomorrow. I'll... hee hee, go prepare some supper,” she said in a sing song voice as she trotted away.

The morning sun cast its gentle light on a small group of ponies and a very angry griffon. “Just go!” Gilda growled as her eyes narrowed into small slits. “I told you I'll be fine, I don't need a couple of feather brains looking over my back.”

“Gilda...” Rainbow mumbled as she circled her friend. “You're still hurt. We're just looking out for you, want to make sure you're safe. No need to be so defensive.”

“I said no,” the griffon snapped as she pulled her wing away from Fluttershy. “You all have ponies waiting for you at Fillydelphia. I've had to deal with a lot worse than a cut wing and a broken leg. I'll be fine, just git.”

“But-”

“I said go! All you're doing is annoying me!” Gilda growled as she flexed her other claw and stood up. “I'm leaving, and you better do the same.”

“Gilda, I'm not abandoning you to-”

“To what? I'm wounded, not lame,” the griffon snapped. “I'll be fine, the Water Nation isn't coming after me. You all talk about that wall as if it'll stop them, but you don't know that, now do you? If they have some plan to get around it, that city will fall. Stop wasting your time with me and just go! There's no way I'm coming to your city of fancy earth benders, either. So forget it.”

The two glared at each other, eyes narrowed. After a few seconds, Rainbow lowered her eyes and sighed. “You're... you're right. I'm sorry, but you're right. Just... just promise you'll be okay?”

“Hmph. I'm not promising you anything. I don't owe you a darn thing,” the griffon snapped as she sauntered off. “Just go, you lot are giving me a headache and I got some things to do.”

“Like what?” the pegasus asked with a growl.

“An entire wrecked city lies before me. Gonna scavenge some stuff then lay low for a bit. I'll see you after everything settles. Unless someone hires me to take out your little friend again,” she glanced to Twilight and smirked. “Even if she's an easy catch, the pay is good.”

“What?” the alicorn snapped as her wings flared up. “I am not an easy catch! I totally would have throttled you, into the ground, if you hadn't ambushed me like that! I could still kick your flank right now! Come on, I got some new earth bending skills I could show you!”

“Twilight, her wing and hoof is messed up,” Rainbow said with a roll of her eyes. “Do you really have to get so competitive?”

“What? But... but she started it... I was just... I just...” the avatar squeaked before shaking her head and storming off.

“Anyway,” the pegasus said as she looked to Gilda and flew back over to block her way. “Fine. You win. I won't stop you. But don't think this is over. You're still my buddy, even if you are a rotten punk sometimes. So... I'll see you around,” she said before giving the griffon a big hug.

Gilda rolled her eyes. “Ugh, Rainbow. Stop being so lame and just go.” Though she reached up an arm to hug back.

“Heh. Fine, see you soon. Once we kick the Water Nation's flanks back where they belong, I'm coming to find you,” Rainbow said as she let the griffon go.

“Uh huh, surrrre. I'll see you around. Slow poke.”

“Slow poke? I could fly circles around you with one wing tied behind my back!”

“Really? Just wait until I get my wing back in shape. I'll make you eat my tail feathers,” the griffon teased, before turning and walking away.

The pegasus sighed as she watched her go. A hoof gently rested on her shoulder after a moment, and she looked up to see the smiling Pinkie. “You know,” the earth pony said with a giggle, “I like this good bye a lot more than the other one. Bye bye meany beak!” The griffon didn't respond, aside from rolling her eyes.

Flowerbloom hung her head, her hooves in shackles as two water benders stood on either side of her. She nervously glanced towards the sky and the rising sun. Her trial would soon begin and the stress was quickly causing nervous sweat to fill her coat. Scootaloo was laying on the tank, just within eye sight of the mare. Occasionally their eyes would meet, though the pegasus would quickly look away in shame. They both knew what was going to happen soon.

As the sun finally cleared the mountains in the distance, a nearby tent flap opened as Sweetie slowly climbed out. She refused to look at the young earth bender as she walked. She had spent most of the night discussing with the shadowbolts, causing small bags under her eyes. The unicorn trotted to the center of the camp and cleared her throat as every pony who was awake, the vast majority due to excitement for the coming trial, stood at attention.

“The trial begins after breakfast!” she shouted out. Ponies shared disappointed looks between each other, though none dared object. The princess then turned her back to the prisoner and trotted away.

“I hope you're not getting too hopeful,” the unicorn on Flowerbloom's right said.

“H-huh?” the earth pony asked.

“The punishment for treason is death. There's nothing the princess can do,” he said softly. “Aside from delaying your trial. She knows what will happen to you.”

“I... I know...” the mare squeaked as she lowered her eyes. “I don't... I don't expect mercy...”

“... Don't worry,” the pony on the left said. “Your punishment won't be as bad as that unicorns. I'm sure it will be quick, and painless.”

The earth bender trembled as she lowered herself towards the ground. A small platform of metal had been made for her, which she had been forbidden to move from on pain of execution. All she could do was tremble, her small manacles rattling softly.

“Perfect!” Rarity said as she smiled at her creation. Blueblood blushed as he glanced down at his chest. His dress had been transformed into a perfectly fitting tuxedo, with small flowery white puffs against his chest. The teacup symbol had been moved over his breast pocket. He nervously shuffled from hoof to hoof as he looked down.

“Do... do I really look okay?” he asked gently.

“Yes... hmmm... no. Not perfect. Something... something is missing. What... ah hah!” she cried out as she darted towards the kitchen, nearly toppling over a drowsy Celestia.

“I see that my daughter has finally finished your alterations,” the mare said as she sipped her tea. “I take it you are quite satisfied with the changes?”

“She... she did a marvelous job,” he mumbled as he looked around at himself. “I couldn't have asked for a better job. I really don't deserve such kindness...” He slowly raised a hoof, letting out a soft sigh.

“Do you intend to meet with your brethren of the fire tribes? I'm sure they'd be happy to-”

“NO!” the stallion interrupted, stomping a hoof down. “I'm not... I'm not going near them. Not anywhere near them. They've been through enough without me causing them more problems.”

Celestia smiled as she gently placed a glass in front of him. “I see. There is nothing wrong with being upset about the mistakes you've made, Blueblood. But, never forget. No pony is beyond redemption so long as they try.” A slow frown formed on her face. “If only they try...”

“Huh?” the fire bender asked as he looked up. Before the unicorn could answer, Rarity galloped into the room holding a bright red rose.

She slid it into his suit with a smile. “There! Perfect!”

“E-err, really?” he asked as he blushed. “I look... okay?”

“You look quite handsome,” Celestia said with a smile. “It is a shame though. In the dress you looked so adorable.”

His cheeks burned ever brighter as he galloped past them. “I-I'm going to go serve the guests! Bye!”

Rarity chuckled as she rolled her eyes and began to put her own dress on. “Now, it's not much, but it is better than this dreadful poofy dress. Ugh. I'd best get to work as well.” The mare took a deep breath, forced a smile, and trotted out towards tables.

Celestia smiled as she turned the tea pot back on and got to work, slowly brewing her tonics. “At least she has finally found a friend. Avatar, I do hope you stay hidden from her sight this time...”

“Flowerbloom stands accused of being an earth bender. Of hiding such crucial information from her royal highness Sweetie Belle, as well as our glorious leader Nightmare Moon,” Shadowblade yelled as the gathered ponies watched. The pegasus paced back and forth in front of Flowerbloom, who had a bit blocking her mouth during the trial. “Now, for our first witness! Nightwing!”

A stallion stepped forward, bearing the same outfit of the shadowbolts. He bowed his head before speaking. “As her highness knows, with the coming assault on Las Pegasus we were divided into three forces. I was tasked as a member of Flowerbloom's force. We pursued a number of the escaping pirates. Now, at first I didn't notice anything strange, but the ponies had left an ambush for us. They would have caught us completely by surprise, except the accused called out and warned us. I was amazed at her ability to notice them, but I realize now it was the work of earth bending that allowed her such a feat. We eliminated the ambushing force and continued out, creating a perimeter. That's when we encountered a patrol of earth benders.”

“Did these earth benders identify Flowerbloom as one of their own?” Shadowblade asked.

Nightwing shook his head. “No, they did not. There were only two of them, but they launched an attack on us instantly. While they weren't a considerable danger, it was then I noticed Flowerbloom's odd behavior.”

“Of course,” the mare said as she stopped in front of him. “What was it you noticed?”

“Namely, the way she moved,” he went silent for a moment as the assorted crowd began to giggle. “Not like that! I noticed... she was quite graceful. Well, for an earth pony. However, she avoided rocks she couldn't possibly have. At times it was as if they moved around her, avoided her. That's when I became suspicious.”

“I see,” the pegasus mare began pacing again. “What were your actions at this time?”

“Well, I discussed it with the other shadowbolts. It was nothing but a suspicion, so I hoped it would lead to nothing. We kept an eye on her after that. That's when we began to notice... other things.”

The mare's ears twitched. “Continue, please. Speak loud enough for all ponies to hear.”

“Her blades, obsidian. While we were pursuing other threats within our perimeter, we noted how efficient she was with them. Her aim. As they were made from obsidian stone, we began to try to determine if it was possible she was using bending to control them. We began focusing more and more on these, watching how they moved when she threw them, just how precise they were. We were certain they kept moving and changing direction after she threw them.”

“Of course. A fascinating observation. However, did you actually see her, flat out, bend earth?”

The stallion took a deep breath, before slowly nodding. “Yes. I'm afraid that we did. Our suspicions began to grow. As it was our sacred duty to keep her highness safe, especially from a possible spy, we prepared a trap for the earth bender.”

“What did you do?” Sweetie suddenly called out. Everypony went silent as the eyes turned on the Nightwing.

“A-as I said... w-we... we prepared a trap. We lured her into a cave and then we had the entrance... cave in. We had it under control!” the pegasus insisted. “But she didn't know as such. She thought we were alone in the cave, nopony outside to help. We pretended to be distracted, not watching her as we tended to our wounded. As we suspected, once she thought she was alone, she opened the cave entrance. Those of us in the cave saw, and those outside watched as the rocks moved aside. We instantly descended on her and brought her before you, to await trial.”

Sweetie ground her teeth for a moment as purple leaked into her eyes. “I see. Is that all you have to tell us?”

“Yes, your highness,” the stallion said as he bowed his head.

“Very well. Bring the next witness,” the princess growled as she narrowed her eyes on Flowerbloom.

Shadowblade nodded as she called the next member of the unit, then the next, and the next, one by one retelling the same story of events as angry eyes fell on the earth pony. Finally, the last finished and the shadowbolt looked up to the princess. “Your highness, the case against her is strong. Do you wish to-”

“No,” Sweetie growled. “Remove the bit. Flowerbloom, you will speak.”

The earth pony trembled as the steel was pulled from her mouth. She hung her head in shame, but didn't speak.

“Well, Flowerbloom? What do you have to say for yourself? How do you defend yourself?”

“I... I cannot defend myself. I am an earth bender,” the crowd gasped as hooves slammed against the ground, their yells and stomps drowning out the mare's next words.

“SILENCE!” Sweetie yelled, the ponies instantly stopping. “What did you say?”

“I said I never betrayed the Water Nation! I swear! I never asked to be an earth bender and I've done everything I can to be a respected and honorable member of our nation. I would never have done anything to sully the reputation of our great country. And I would never have done anything to hurt you. I just knew-”

Sweetie stomped her hoof down as her eyes narrowed. “We were the closest of friends, and you hid this from me.”

“Of course I hid this from you!” Flowerbloom cried. “I knew what would happen if I told you! This! I just wanted to serve my nation, not be seen as some abominable earth bender! I-”

“Enough!” the unicorn yelled as her eyes glowed with a dark purple. “I've heard all I need to hear. I will return to my tent. Once I have returned, I will give my judgement,” the mare said as she turned her back to her friend once more and stormed into the nearby tent. She slammed the flap shut behind her, none daring to attempt entry as they watched it nervously.

“Three cups of honeybush and two peppermint,” Rarity spat out as she stopped in front of the counter, her eyes narrowed to small slivers.

Celestia glanced up and smiled. “One moment,” she said as she delicately placed the white glasses on the serving tray. “What has you so angry, Diamondeyes?”

“Nothing!” the unicorn grumbled. “Just tired of serving drinks, that's all.”

Celestia glanced up, a small smile forming on her lips. Blueblood was talking to a pair of mares. Taking their drinks, of course, but they were less than subtly flirting. Their hooves reaching out to stroke his arm more times than could be called professional. Batting their eyes, licking their lips in a seductive manner. To the stallion's credit, he was keeping his head high and not responding to any of their suggestive gestures, eventually turning away and coming to the counter, even ignoring the swat against his flank.

“Two ginger teas,” the stallion said as professionally as he could, though as he glanced towards the angry princess, he took a step away.

“Mmm hmmm, on it. How about you two wait a moment, I seem to be having a bit of trouble back here...” the elder unicorn lied as she turned her back to them.

“Do you need a-”

“No, daughter. I have it under control. How about you two just chat for now.”

“Hmph,” Rarity grumbled as she glanced to Blueblood. “Having fun flirting with all the mares? I see my designs are quite the hit.”

“Y-yes?” the stallion squeaked as he lowered his gaze. “I've gotten quite a few comments on it. Ummm, thank you. Though one of the mare's tried to eat the rose. I stopped her though!” he added quickly.

The princess sighed before shrugging. “I don't care. It's not like I spent all night working on it so it could be ignored as everypony gawks at the pony wearing it.”

“I... what?” He looked down at the tuxedo. “I don't think many ponies are staring at me. I've caught a lot more staring at you. I uhhh...”

“Oh, so you've been watching me then?” Rarity said with a smirk.

“Nope!” the stallion said quickly. “I haven't been watching you at all, I've been too busy working and I haven't even looked at you at all! Not all day! Jademane, how are those teas coming?”

The elder unicorn stepped out from the kitchen, three pots held in her magic. She shook her head as she poured the liquid into the cups. “There you go. Hurry along, while they're hot!”

The stallion trotted as quickly as he could without spilling the liquids in his magic. He moved to his table, placing them down before letting out an eep as a pink hoof covered his own.

“My, so what's such a cute stallion such as yourself work in this old, run down tea shop, wearing such pathetic rags, anyway?” the pink mare asked as she brushed her violet mane from her eyes. “If you were interested, I could find an excellent job for you, m'kay?”

“I... I errr, I'm not, t-this suit is very nice and ummm...”

“No need to be shy,” the mare said as she moved her hoof away and picked up her cup. “My name is Suri Polomare. What's yours, dear?”

“B-blueblood.,” the stallion gulped as he took a step back. “This suit is very nice though. My friend made it and-”

“Oh, no need to be so protective. Trust me, dear. I'm a proper designer. I know a rushed job anywhere, okay? Now, if you came with me I could put you in some real-” Rarity had enough. She slid her hoof against the floor as the slightly tipped glass suddenly shot out, splashing the mare with tea. “Ahhhh!”

The shop erupted into laughter, even the mare opposite Suri was unable to suppress her giggles. The princess happily trotted to her table, a self-satisfied smirk on her face.

“Coco! Napkin!” the flirtatious mare demanded from her light gray companion. The other mare held out a large white one, smiling nervously. Blueblood hastily made his escape, moving to a new table as the earth pony cleaned herself. As the napkin was lowered, covered in the mare's makeup, her glare sweeping across the shop. Coco sat as low as she could in the chair, trying to avoid the mare's wrath. Finally, they settled on Rarity. “You, serving wench!”

The princess froze, her eye twitching. “What... did you just call me?”

“Serving wench, I demand-”

“Okay, OUT!” the mare screamed as she stormed to the table, slamming her hooves down on it.

“What? I am a guest here and-”

“I said get out, or I'll throw you out,” the princess growled as she narrowed her eyes. “Take your tacky little scarf, and leave!”

“You can't speak to me like that, I am a guest here!” Suri yelled as she got to her hooves. “Do you have any idea who I am? I am Suri Polomare, the greatest designer in all of Fillydelphia!”

“I wouldn't let you design our toilet paper. Now get out before I throw you out, do I make myself clear?”

“Make me,” the earth pony said with a confident grin. The moment the unicorn took a step forward, the ground under her trembled. Suddenly the boards were torn up as a spike of rock shot at her underbelly. She was pulled to the side, Blueblood holding her to him. Flames began to form on the tip of his horn.

The princess growled, her horn glowing as the tea cups and pots began to quiver. Suri's eyes widened slightly, but suddenly Celestia was between the two of them. “Enough!” the elder unicorn snapped, the quivering of tea ceasing. “You, Suri, leave. I will send you a bill for the damages to the floor later,” she growled. “If you refuse, I will summon the guard to have you forcefully removed.”

The earth pony stared for a moment, before a large grin formed on her lips. “Of course. Good day,” she said as she trotted out the door.

“I-I'm really sorry about all this, r-really,” Coco said as she bowed her head. She quickly galloped after the other mare. “Suri?”

“Did you see that?” the mare asked with a wide grin as they trotted down the street.

“See what?” the blue maned pony asked.

“That unicorn. She was water bending. When she got all mad, all the glasses and pots were shaking.”

“I... I didn't see anything,” Coco said softly, though she stopped quickly as the older mare whipped around and glared into her eyes. “M-maybe it was telekinesis?”

“Are you arguing with me? After everything I've done for you, taking you under my wing, guiding you in the world of fashion, teaching you everything I know? Are you really that disrespectful and inconsiderate?”

“I-I...” the mare squeaked as she cowered. “N-no. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to... I was just... sorry... I-I'm sure you saw it.”

“Exactly,” the earth pony said with a smirk as she turned around and began trotting again. “I'll just have to gather proof now. They'll regret the day the insulted Suri Polomare!”

The evening sun shone down on Sweetie as she slowly walked out from her tent, thrusting the flap aside as she moved. Her eyes gradually fell down on the gathered ponies, who stared at her with breathless anticipation. Finally, she turned to Flowerbloom, who laid on the ground, cowering on her metal plate. The princess began the long, reluctant walk to her friend. Her eyes glowed in the fading sun, the purple contrasting heavily against her white coat. “I've come to a decision.”

The crowd went silent as they watched, awaiting the princess's sentence. “On all accounts of being an earth bender and hiding such important knowledge from the Water Nation, I find you... guilty.”

The ponies yelled and hollered, stomping their hooves as they yelled for the mare's execution. With a wave of her hoof, Sweetie silenced them. “As for your charges of treason. I find you...” she stopped for a moment and took a deep breath, as the purple began to leak from her eyes. “Innocent.” For a moment, there were no sounds as the ponies just stared. Finally, a single pony yelled out in outrage, soon the entire herd gathering with it. Her eyes narrowed as she turned her head towards the gathered ponies. She lifted a hoof, but this time they refused to be silenced.

Her eyes narrowed as dark magic began to coat her horn, the purple once again filling her eyes. The crowd only got louder and louder, drowning out her frustrated growl. Finally, she slammed her hooves down as a purple flash blinded the ponies. “ENOUGH!” The crowd went silent. “I will hear no more of this!”

“Your highness, with all due respect,” a unicorn said as she stepped forward. “She's a filthy earth pony! Worse than that, a bender. Our laws are quite clear on what happens to benders of other countries. She's a- grrk!” The mare was silenced as a tendril of water gripped her around the throat and lifted her into the air as she struggled.

“It seems there is some confusion,” Sweetie said menacingly as she slowly walked towards the mare. “She is not a bender of another country. She is a bender of our country. However, allow me to make this crystal clear.” Spikes of ice formed under the dangling unicorn. “I will be the one day ruler of the Water Nation. The laws of old, are just that. Laws of old. Dead ponies who no longer have any say in the matter. Speaking of...” The watery tendril released the unicorn, eliciting soft gasps of shock from the crowd as they turned away.

“Now, as I was saying. She is an earth bender,” the princess yelled as she glanced to Flowerbloom. “More importantly, she's my friend. Do you swear to use your bending only for the betterment of the Water Nation?”

“I do...” the earth pony squeaked, her eyes focused on the dyed red spikes.

“Then there is nothing more to say. No, there is still one more... Shadowblade, come forward!”

The pegasus gulped as she stepped forward, bowing her head. “Yes, your highness?”

“Do you have any objections to my decree?”

The mare was silent for a few moments, before shaking her head. “No. We, the shadowbolts, will follow any and all orders from Nightmare Moon and her chosen heir. Even if we have to go to the depths of Tartarus, we will follow you.”

“Good. Very good. Have Flowerbloom unchained and then you two are leaving. All of this has given me a new idea.” A large, wicked grin formed on her lips.

“Your highness?”

“You'll see,” the princess said as she trotted towards her tent. “But... before you leave. Flowerbloom, Scootaloo, join me. I must speak with you.” Scootaloo darted inside, ahead of the unicorn.

The earth pony quickly trotted towards the tent once her hooves were released, wanting to get away from the harsh glares of the army. As soon as the flap closed behind her, she was pulled in to a tight hug from the princess.

“I'm so, so, so sorry...” Sweetie whispered as she smiled up at her friend. “I never wanted to scare you, but I knew I couldn't just ignore it once they found out.”

“I'm sorry I never told you... I... I wanted to. Really,” Flowerbloom mumbled as her gaze lowered. “But I just... the time was never right.”

“Oh, I know,” the unicorn said as she pulled away. She then glanced to Scootaloo before smiling. “That's why we never told you we knew. After all, it was your secret to keep.”

The earth bender stared for a few moments, her eyes slowly blinking as she processed those last words. “You... you knew?” she squeaked. “How... when...”

“You were hardly subtle,” the unicorn smirked. “I couldn't help but notice how often ponies who annoyed you 'tripped'. After we had the initial suspicion, well...”

“Not subtle at all,” Scootaloo said with a shake of her head, before smirking.

A smile slowly spread on Flowerbloom's face, before she lunged forward and gave them both a hug. “Thank you... just... just thank you. So much...”

“Them there are a lot of ponies,” Applejack mumbled as their group of five hid and watched the Water Nation's camp in the darkness. “We'll haveta be extra careful if we wanna avoid being spotted...”

“Mmm hmm,” Twilight muttered as she looked to the left and right. “We should go under them.”

“Under them?” Rainbow hissed. “That's the worst thing we could do! We should go over, they-”

“Have them shadowbolts,” the earth pony interrupted. “They're on their way tah Fillydelphia, and we need tah warn em. Fastest way tah get through this lot, safest too, is tah go under. As many ponies as there are, it could take us all night just tryin' tah get around 'em. Ah can't even see far enough tah see the end.”

“”Fine...” Rainbow sighed. “Just... just do it quick.”

“Here we go,” Twilight whispered as she and Applejack tapped their hooves. A moment later the ground opened under them, swallowing the five ponies whole, as they began their trip through the camp.

Chapter 24: New Opportunities

“A-are you s-sure about this?” Coco squeaked as she nervously peered over the wall separating the rear of the tea shop from the rest of the city. The moon was hanging high in the sky, casting its dim glow across the barren streets.

“Of course I am,” Suri whispered as she stared at the windows. “Once those water benders realize their water supply is leaking, they'll have no choice but to use their bending to clean up the damages. Obviously. Why do you keep having such problems with this? You're so lucky I took you under my hoof, you'd be absolutely useless on your own. Now, where's my coffee?”

“Here, Suri,” the younger mare mumbled as she slowly held out a thermos.

Inside the tea shop, Rarity murmured gently as she laid nestled in her nice, warm bed. She felt so comfortable, relaxed in her dreams. For once, she didn't envision horrible, awful things. Instead, she dreamed about having her own fashion exposé, with ponies lining up the halls for miles as they prepared to see her. Dresses, gowns, they all were created by the hundreds, her hooves moving like lightning as ponies stared in awe. So of course, it was doomed to end.

A sudden shriek pierced the night, awakening her. “Huh? Wha?” she groaned as she sat up. She rolled over, her hoof grazing against the carpet... and coming back soaking wet. She froze.

“It's everywhere!” Blueblood yelled.

“By the stars!” Celestia cried.

Rarity slid out of bed, squeaking as the carpet gushed water under her hooves. “What happened?” she squeaked as light filled the room. Blueblood stood in the entrance, a lit lamp held in his magic. The ground was soaking wet. There was even a small cockroach, drifting by on a boat made of a leaf. “AHHHH! We have cockroachs!”

“It's from the kitchen!” Celestia called from the other room. The two unicorns looked each other in the eye, before galloping to see. One of a number of large metal canisters, which held their water, had burst, spilling its contents all across the floor. The contents flowed out like a waterfall. “Blueblood, can you seal it, please? I'm going to try finding the landlord.”

“Here it is!” Suri whispered in excitement as she peered through the window. “Watch, he'll water bend it to get rid of the problem!”

Coco didn't say a word, just watching through the window. Blueblood stepped towards the metal container, nodding his head. After a second, his horn lit on fire as he sent a flaming burst against the metal. Steam filled the air as the heat quickly melted the container back together, blocking the escaping liquid. “It looks like he's a fire bender...”

“Shut up!” Suri hissed as she narrowed his eyes. “Fine, he's a fire bender. But that mare is obviously a water bender!”

“Why would a fire bender be working with a water bender? They-”

“Are you questioning me? After all the things I've done for you, after everything I've taught you. Is this the kind of way you repay my generosity?”

Coco sighed and lowered her gaze. “I... I... no. I'm so sorry. I just thought...”

“Leave the thinking to me, and keep watching, m'kay?” the mare said as she watched through the windows. The two remaining unicorns were running around, trying to save what they could from the water damage. Boxes of tea and other stored containers were placed on top of tables as the two worked. Finally, they began setting out towels to soak up the water. The earth pony growled. “Come on,” she snapped as she stormed away.

“W-what? I thought we were-”

“I'll think of another plan. Besides, it's late and I'm tired. You still have those designs of mine to cut out and sew, so we can't waste all night watching them. Now come along!”

Coco let out a sigh as she hung her head. “Coming...”

Rarity sighed as she wiped the sweat from her brow and sat at one of the chairs. “Half the storage is ruined, carpet is going to have to be torn out and replaced, there's no way they're getting all that water out. Who knows how much other damage there is,” the mare grumbled as she laid her head on the table. “We're getting evicted.”

“I'm sure it's not that bad,” Blueblood said with a smile. “We can think of something. We'll-”

The doorbell jingled as the door swung open. Celestia walked in, followed by a brown stallion. “By the stars...” the earth pony gasped. “What have you done to my shop?”

“One of the water storage units fractured,” Rarity said quickly. “It wasn't our fault.”

“Of course it was!” the stallion hissed as he galloped forward to the unit. “Look at these burn marks, no wonder it broke. What have you been doing to it?”

“We had to seal it up because it was shooting water everywhere,” Blueblood snapped angrily. “I'm a fire bender, so I sealed it again. You shouldn't have used such cheap units.”

“This was a marvelous, if old, unit! I knew I shouldn't have trusted a couple of vagrants off the street, no matter how good your tea is. You'll have to pay for this,” the stallion said as he looked down at it.

“That's ridiculous! It's not our fault,” Rarity snapped.

“Now daughter, it-”

“No! He can't blame us for his faulty equipment, he-” she was cut off as the door jingled once again as two mares walked inside. Both earth ponies, one with a blue coat and pink mane, the other with exact opposite coloration. The stallion turned, and froze.

“What is going on here?” the blue pony asked.

“Miss L-Lotus Blossom. Miss Aloe. There's just a minor mishap. See, I hired these new workers and they-”

“New workers? I don't remember you mentioning them in your weekly report,” the pink one, Aloe, said as her eyes narrowed.

“Ah, well, t-they were hired just yesterday, and I'd already sent-”

“We were hired a few days ago,” Blueblood said with a frown. The other stallion gulped nervously.

“N-not... not officially... a-and...”

“You failed to mention that. Is this why you tried to sneak off without telling us?” Lotus asked with a shake of her head. “In fact, all your report mentioned how you single hoofedly quadrupled profits. Thanks to your new secret recipe.”

“Secret recipe my hoof!” Rarity snapped as she turned to the mares. “That tea was made by my au- mother! Jademane! This hack had nothing to do with it.”

The two earth pony mares glanced to each other, before turning to Celestia. “Would you be able to make us a cup of tea?” Aloe asked.

“Of course,” the elder unicorn said as she trotted away, her hooves squishing against the carpet as she walked towards a second, non damaged water unit and began her preparations.

“You'll make one as well,” Lotus snapped as she glared at the stallion. He eeped, and got to work. “Both jasmine.” Soon, two pots were boiling as the twins sat down. Rarity and Blueblood sat off to the side, watching nervously as the two tea brewers got to work. Occasionally their eyes drifted to the sullied carpet, before turning back to the two earth ponies.

Soon, four glasses of tea were placed in front of the two mares, two from each brewer. In unison, the twins tried the stallion's first. They sipped the liquid delicately, before placing the glasses down. “A fine flavor,” Aloe said with a nod. “Not the best, but quite satisfactory. This is what we hired you for, after all.”

The two then picked up Celestia's, slowly bringing the drink to their lips. They took one sip each, before dropping the glasses in unison. The contents splashed across the tables, forcing the two to step back.

“Hey!” Rarity snapped. “I don't care how bad it is, there is no way you had to-”

“Bad?!” Aloe snapped. “It was... it... it's...”

“Magnificent!” Lotus squealed. “I've never tasted tea with such... such...”

“Passion!” Aloe gasped as the looked her sister in the eye.

“Heart!”

“Warmth! It was like drinking from summer itself! No, not from summer, the... the flavor, it... you must come work with us!” the pink pony squealed as she charged forward and grabbed Celestia's hoof. A moment later, her twin did the same.

“I... I kind of already do,” the unicorn squeaked.

“No! Not here, not in this place, it is a waste of your talents! You must come with us!”

“But I-”

“Whatever you want, whatever you need!” Aloe squealed as she shook the mare. “Your own shop, your own apartment, you may do whatever you like with it! Complete creative freedom!”

The unicorn squeaked as her mouth fell open. She then glanced towards Rarity for a moment, before a smile formed over her lips. “Could my daughter design the uniforms?”

“Your daughter can design the store for all we care!” Lotus shrieked. “Just, say yes! We'll create a shop besides our spa, Fillydelphia's greatest tea! Yes!”

The mare gulped, but slowly nodded. “Yes... I... I couldn't possibly say no!”

“W-what about me? I was the one who discovered her!” the stallion asked, freezing as the twins turned their icy gazes on him.

“You're lucky we don't fire you!” Aloe snapped.

“We'll send our crew to examine everything tomorrow. Once it's repaired, you'll go back to work. If we find out about you hiring ponies and having them work without telling us again, you're fired. Understand?” Lotus growled as she narrowed her eyes on him. He squeaked and nodded.

The twins then turned to the three unicorns, smiles across the faces. “Now come, come! We'll take you to the upper city and show you around!”

“It's midnight,” Rarity mumbled as she trotted after them. “Who could possibly be awake at this hour?”

“For us? Whoever we wish,” the twins said in unison before giggling at each other. Blueblood smiled as he looked to Rarity.

“Your mother seems to be quite talented and lucky. Makes friends so quickly as well.”

The younger unicorn blushed. “Yes. She... is quite talented at making such things. I for one wouldn't know. I've never been quite as gifted at making friends.”

“Really?” the stallion asked as he trotted besides her. “I find that hard to believe. The more time I spend with you, the more I hope I never have to go.” He paused for a few seconds as red flooded his cheeks. “I-I didn't mean it like that! I just meant, you're nice and make things easy, you don't, I mean, you've helped me out a lot, I didn't mean-”

“Oh, just shut up,” the mare said with a chuckle. “I know what you meant, no need to be so embarrassed.”

The twins glanced back, giving each other a mischievous grin before glancing to Celestia. “So, where did you learn to make such amazing tea, Jademane?”

“When you truly love something, you learn everything you can about it,” she paused before shaking her head. “It's rare to see others who appreciate tea such as I do.”

“Oh, tea is quite popular in the upper city. A select few enjoy coffee, but tea is the drink of choice. Finding a true master of preparation, well...” Aloe glanced to her sister.

“Is quite difficult. My sister and I have been searching quite a long time for this flavor. To imagine we'd find it tonight of all nights... truly, the stars are shining on us.”

“Hurry it up!” Rainbow growled as she shook her head.

“S-sorry...” Fluttershy squeaked as she kept her head low. “I-I don't want to accidentally trample any pony if I trip...”

“It's fine. We'll all be outta here in no time,” Applejack said from the head of the conga line of ponies. “Ah can feel the lotta them up there, makin' enough noise tah wake the dead.”

“Can you please not say things like that when we're buried under ground?” the pegasus asked nervously.

“Why? Yah ain't scareda the dark, are yah?”

“I'm not scared of anything!” Rainbow objected. “Just don't feel comfortable being buried alive. Last time I was somewhere like this, I almost got turned to stone and eaten by a rock worm, or whatever those were. Eels. Whatever.”

“Don't worry,” the earth pony snickered. “We ain't gonna meet anythin' bigger than lil Angel down here. We'll be out soon too. Left the lotta them back in our dust.”

“I thought you said you could feel them?” the pegasus grumbled.

“Ah can. They're pretty far back, loud as the dickens. We'd best take our time an make sure not tah get caught poppin' up unless yah wanna deal with an army on your hooves.”

“We can just-”

“No,” Twilight interrupted. “We're not trying to out run anypony. We're going to just keep going, and get to Fillydelphia. How much longer until you think we'll be safe?”

“Ah dun know, another hour?” Applejack offered, eliciting a groan from the pegasus. “We should be back in Fillydelphia by tomorrow night at this rate. We might wanna take a break soon, catch some sleep. All this-”

“No. Way,” Rainbow growled. “I am NOT sleeping underground.”

“It'll just be for the-”

“NO! If we're sleeping, we're doing it above ground! I am not sleeping underground!” the pegasus yelled.

“Fine... we kin jus' keep goin' then...” the earth pony mumbled as she kept going ahead, the ground opening as she walked. She blinked blearily, stifling a yawn as she walked.

“It's beautiful!” Rarity gasped as her mouth fell open.

“It's radiant,” Celestia said gently as she stared up.

“It's... it's really, really big,” Blueblood observed as he craned his neck.

“It's all yours,” Aloe and Lotus said in unison as the five ponies stood in front of a large, three story building. The wood had images of circling dragons carved around every window, with the door shaped like a large dragon's mouth. “The Jasmine Dragon. You can change the name if you like!” the twins said quickly.

“No, no. It's a fine name. I'm sure a wise pony created the name,” she said with a nod. She then glanced to the right and smiled. “And that large building next door, the Sapphire Tiger? Am I correct in thinking-”

“Yes,” Aloe said with a smile. “That is our residence. If you ever have any problems, that's where you'll find us. Feel free to stop by for a session as well, if you so wish. Now, this building houses a diner on the ground floor. On the second floor and third floor feel free to store anything you wish, and you can set up residence there if you like. If not, we can find you somewhere else. You'll find all the needed tools, top of the line.”

Celestia nodded before yawning. “That... that will be more than fine. However, it has been a long night. If you would be so kind, we'd love to get some sleep. It's dawn and-”

“No, no, feel free!” Aloe said with a happy grin. “We would like to begin your first day this evening, before dusk? Would that be satisfactory?”

“That would be marvelous. Thank you so much for your generosity. I really can't thank you enough.”

“Oh, don't worry about it,” Lotus said with a shrug. “As long as you can continue to create tea such as that, everypony will be happy. We may at times require some at the spa though...”

“Of course. Whatever you like, dears,” Celestia said with a gentle smile. The two earth ponies giggled as they happily trotted away, leaving the three in front of their new home. The elder unicorn let out a soft sigh.

“What's wrong?” Rarity asked as she gently reached out to grab her aunt's hoof. Tears had formed in the elder unicorn's eyes, though she refused to let them slide. “Aren't you happy?”

“I... I've always d-dreamed of having my own shop,” she whispered gently. “A place I could live in peace, no worries of...” she paused as she shook her head. “No. Never mind. Let's settle in, shall we?”

Rarity nodded slowly, before looking back to Blueblood. “What's wrong? Are you busy admiring those twins?” she snapped.

“What? No!” the stallion squeaked as his face turned red and he looked away from the adjacent building. “I was just... I mean... the spa is right there and... I'd like to ask if... nothing. Sorry,” the stallion squeaked as he walked forward and attempted to walk into the building... slamming head first into the door.

“I still need to unlock it, dear,” Celestia said with a soft chuckle as she trotted forward. “Come along, let's get some sleep. We need to be up in the evening if we want to serve all of our guests. We'll need to prepare the shop as well. Most importantly... Rarity, you have a number of uniforms to design.”

The princess's eyes lit up as she squealed. “You're right! I'll design the greatest uniforms in all of Fillydelphia! Far better than anything that hack Blueblood was flirting with could make.”

“I... I wasn't flirting...” the stallion squeaked, hanging his head as they headed in ahead of him. “Those mares though... they move fast, don't they?”

“What do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“It's been only a couple of hours, and they already have a new home and tea shop for us. All because of what your mother made...” he gulped nervously. “I just hope they don't get as angry as quickly as they get generous. I'd hate to bring on the wrath of ponies like that.”

“YEOW!”

“Stop moving so much or I'll get you with another pin!” Rarity hissed at the stallion.

“Y-you're doing this on purpose!” Blueblood cried.

“You keep jumping around each time I come near you. Just hold still and I won't hurt you any,” the princess scowled as she gently pulled the pin out and reapplied it. “Stop shaking so much.”

“I-I can't, I'm cold...” the stallion mumbled as he looked down at the mare groping his chest through her cloth. His cheeks burned red as he watched her gentle hooves holding the fabric down as a pin was pulled from her mouth and inserted into the cloth. Again and again she moved with grace he had never seen any mare act with before, her movements gentle and smooth as water. Aside from the few needle pricks, he found himself lost in her flow.

“I'm done,” Rarity said with a smile as she plucked the remaining pins from her mouth and put them in a pin holder.

“H-huh?” the stallion asked as the fabric was slowly brought away from his body.

“I said I'm done. You can go now, I can finish the rest without you,” the princess mumbled as her horn glowed and the scissors, cloth, thread and needle flew around the air in a strange, but magical, dance.

“Can... can I stay and watch?” he asked softly.

“If you like,” Rarity said as she worked her magic.

Celestia watched from the open door, a frown on her lips as she shook her head. She trotted downstairs and started arranging the tables how she liked. A soft jingling caught her attention as she quickly turned with a smile. “Hello, I'm sorry but we-” the mare was caught off guard as water exploded in her face. She took a step back, confused as more water pounded on her from all sides. She let out a startled shriek as she stumbled back. Then, it was gone as she heard the jingle of the door closing and caught sight of a cloaked pony running away. “W-what... huh?”

“Jademane, what happened?” Rarity asked as she arrived on the scene. Her aunt was sitting on the ground, confused and soaking wet. Broken balloons littered the ground.

“I... I have no idea. I was just... somepony attacked me. With balloons and... I have no idea...” For once, the elder unicorn couldn't think of what to do in the situation.

“I'll get some towels,” the princess said with a sigh. “At least the hard wood floors will be easier to clean than the carpet was.”

“T-there, I-I'm done,” Coco squeaked as she hid behind a large wall opposite the shop. A large cloak covered her body. “Did... did she bend?”

“No... hmmmm...” Suri rubbed her chin. “It must just be her daughter. The waitress's father must have been from the Water Nation! That's it. We'll just find another way to bring about her destruction, m'kay?”

“Suri, are you sure...” Coco squeaked and lowered her gaze. “N-nevermind... I'm sure you know what you're doing...”

“Of course I do. Now come along. You'll need to think of something else. 'Kay?”

The light gray pony hung her head and sighed as she trailed after the elder mare.

“It's finished. Done! Perfection incarnate!” Rarity squealed with delight as she yelled down the hall towards her two companions.

“Oh? Have you finished with our uniforms?” Celestia asked with a smile as she trotted toward the room. “We'll be opening soon, so I hope you did a job you...” she trailed off as she stepped into the doorway.

“What? What's wrong?” Blueblood asked as he stepped in and his mouth fell open as well.

“Beautiful, aren't they?” the young princess said as she smirked at them. She was wearing her own, a dress that covered her entire body in a jade green. Curved lines of sequins made it appear as if the dress was made of scales. Her head was wrapped in a crown crafted of jade tea leaves. Most impressive were the small, but dazzling wings that sprouted from her back, the sequins on the back catching the lamps glow and making them dazzle in a rainbow of colors.

“B-breathtaking...” the stallion mumbled as he slowly trotted to his, a suit. “I'll need a bit of help putting it on though. I don't want to accidentally damage it...”

“Of course! Hold on one second,” Rarity said happily as she began helping the two get dressed. Soon, all were garbed and standing ready to work. “Now, the best part.” The unicorn's horn glowed for a moment as the wings flattened on her side. “There, so we don't accidentally hit any of the guests or break anything in the kitchen.”

“You've truly outdone yourself, daughter,” Celestia said with a smile as she began trotting down towards the kitchen. “I'll begin preparations for tea. Please go and greet our guests.” After a few steps she glanced back at her wings. "Something about this is... oddly familiar."

“Of course! I'll get the door!” Blueblood said as he quickly galloped past the mare, heading downstairs. He froze as he looked across towards the entrance, his mouth open.

“What's wrong? Why did you... holy... buck...” Rarity squeaked as her mouth fell open as well. Outside the door stood a long, winding line of ponies, curving down the street and off into the distance. “How... how did so many... why...”

“Y-you don't think it was those twins, do you?” the stallion asked with a squeak.

“They did get us this shop really fast... I'm... a little scared to find out what else they could do now...” the princess said with a nervous gulp. “Y-you open the door.”

“W-what? I'll be trampled!” Blueblood objected.

“Better you than me,” Rarity said with a terrified squeak.

“You two do remember we are unicorns, correct?” Celestia asked as she trotted by the two frightened ponies and got to work.

“Y-yes!” the two unicorns said with embarrassed whimpers, before looking at each other with bright red cheeks. They quickly looked away. After a moment, the stallion's horn glowed as the door finally opened and ponies burst in.

“Hello, welcome to the Jasmine Dragon. Please, sit wherever you wish,” Celestia called out. The two servers glanced to each other before nodding, then trotting forward to begin their job.

“RUN RUN RUN!” Applejack shrieked as the ponies galloped through the dirt, a loud roar coming from behind them.

“Go up, go up!” Rainbow screamed as her hooves flung dirt and mud into the air. “This is all your fault Applejack!”

“Ah said ah was sorry! Ah didn't realize just how close we all were to that lake! Jus' keep running!” As she ran, walls of dirt quickly formed behind the five, but were rapidly beaten down by the approaching water flow.

“Master earth bender my blue flank!” the pegasus screamed as they kept running.

“We're almost outta under the lake, jus' hold on!” the earth pony screamed.

“Run girls, run!” Twilight squealed as her glowing horn did its best to allow the ponies to see and avoid tripping over each other.

Rarity rubbed her hooves, letting out a soft groan as she waited for her order to be finished. Blueblood walked up besides her. “You okay?” he asked softly.

“Yeah, just tired. I can't believe how many ponies are here, it's like a flood,” she grumbled as she picked the tray up. “I don't think I've had to run around this much in years.”

“Well, at least business is good,” the stallion said as he looked off to the side. “So, ummm, Diamondeye, do you think you'd like to-”

“Ready!” Celestia said as she placed the tea pot on Rarity's tray.

“Hold that thought!” the princess said as she trotted off, the tray floating behind her. The stallion lowered his gaze and shook his head, soon taking his own pot to a table.

“Watch that... that traitorous cur,” Suri growled as she watched from across the street. “Walking around in that gaudy green travesty of fashion. Taking money from good, hard working Earth Kingdom ponies to fill the coffers of her Water Nation. It makes me sick...”

“I... I think the outfits are nice though,” Coco mumbled, cringing at the glare. “I-I mean... super tacky?”

“Exactly. Just look. She has the Water Nation written all over her! I bet they kicked her out because her fashion sense was so atrocious!”

“Why would they kick a pony out for that?”

“Shut up! We need to find a way to destroy them. To crush them.” A grin formed on her lips. “And I think I have just the plan. Wait here,” Suri whispered as she sunk back behind the wall and trotted off.

“Hello, welcome to... to...” Rarity trailed off as she stared at the doorway, her eyes narrowing on the three brown ponies who stood there, stallions that easily stood taller than her. They were dirty and naked, standing in stark contrast to their fancy dressed and clean guests.

“We've been hearing talk about Water Nation sympathizers here,” the one in the middle said as he stepped forward. “Rumor has it you've even hired a few water benders!” The guests gasped in shock as they quickly moved aside as the three stallions walked towards Rarity.

Blueblood moved to block their way. “You've been fed false information, there aren't any- eep!” the stallion squeaked as he was grabbed in one hoof and flung onto one of the tables, covering him in hot tea as he shrieked.

“Blueblood!” Rarity shrieked as she charged forward. “Get out of here right now! Or I-” The stallion swung at her. She deftly ducked under the hoof and twisted around on the ground. Her back hooves shot out quickly, slamming into the chest of the stallion and sending him hurtling out the door.

His comrades looked confused, their mouths hanging open as they turned to their hurt friend. They then turned towards the princess, their faces set in angry glares as they charged forward. When the one on the right ran past the busted table, he was suddenly dropped as Blueblood slammed one of their chairs on his head. The one on the left stumbled for a second, looking to his dropped comrade. When he returned to look at Rarity, a pot of hot tea slammed into his face, courtesy of Celestia. He stumbled back and screamed, before getting bucked by the princess and sent tumbling out of the store.

“What's going on here?” an angry voice yelled as four earth ponies, wearing the kingdom's robes, galloped down the street.

“T-they're w-water benders!” the first stallion yelled as he wobbly got to his feet. “The... the mare especially... she's a...”

“W-we did no such thing,” Blueblood growled as his horn lit on fire. “I'm a fire bender, none of us can water bend! These men attacked us!”

“We saw the whole thing,” one of the guests yelled. “Those three men barged in and started tossing the waiter around. They just tried to defend themselves, that's all.”

The earth ponies turned to the three stallions and nodded. “I'll stay here and take everyponies reports. Rest of you, take them in for processing.” With heavy objections, the three were brought away.

“See? They water bended right there!” Suri hissed, a grin on her face.

“She threw the pot!” Coco snapped. “It was telekinesis!”

“What? No, it was obviously-”

“Are you insane?” the mare growled. “You sent a bunch of muggers down on those poor ponies! Somepony could have been hurt, or worse! I can't... I can't do this.”

“What?” Suri squeaked. “After-”

“After what? You're insane!” Coco growled as she pulled away. “I'm done! I can't do this any more! You're just trying to destroy them because they showed you up! One time! I won't help with this any more... just... just please give it up.”

“I will not! Now, stop your ramblings and go get my coffee. This is for the protection of all of the Earth Kingdom. These monsters must be-”

“I QUIT!” Coco screamed at the top of her lungs.

“W-what?”

“I quit! Do you hear me, you psychotic nut job? I quit! I'm leaving! I can't, I won't be a part of this! You're going to end up hurting somepony and I won't have that on my conscience!” the mare stared for a moment before smiling. “Also, your bags are really pretentious and over done. I mean, really? The double latch has already been done a thousand times, you're not a new inventor or innovator, you're just copying other ponies works and then making a slight variation and calling it original! Heck, half of your designs are ones you've stolen off better, but less known designers than you'll ever be!” Coco turned and trotted away, her head held high.

“I... you... you disrespectful...” Suri growled, her entire body quivering with rage. “You... you can't quit! You're fired! I'm firing you, you'll never work in this city again! Do you hear me? I'll make sure that no pony, not even... get back here!”

Coco ignored the yells and trotted straight into the tea shop, which was still in the midst of cleaning up. Rarity looked up and groaned, shaking her head. “Oh no. What do you want? Listen, we've already-”

“Wait, please hear me out,” the earth pony said quickly as she lowered her gaze, her confidence fading. “I... I have somethings I need to tell you. I-I'm really sorry. I am, but I swear I didn't... do any of them. I was just following her around. I didn't think Suri would go this far...” she gulped nervously as her hooves began to shake. “I'm sorry, please don't have me arrested...”

“What did you do?” Lotus asked as she trotted out from the back of the kitchen, Aloe and Celestia following behind.

“I just... I was...” Coco squeaked as she stared at the owners of the establishment. She lowered her gaze farther and whimpered, her body locking up in fright.

“Now dear, be calm,” Celestia said as she slowly walked to the mare, put a hoof on her back and guided her to one of the remaining tables. “Here. Drink some tea, it will calm you.” She gently hovered a glass of jasmine tea over.

“O-okay...” the earth pony mumbled as she slowly sipped the tea. She looked up into the warm, comforting eyes of the unicorn, and began telling. Everything.

“Applejack, with all due respect, earth bending sucks,” Rainbow grumbled as the five ponies, soaking wet, covered in mud and sleep deprived, slunk towards the giant towering wall of Fillydelphia.

“It was one tiny lil mishap,” the earth bender grumbled.

“I would hardly call five thousand gallons of water chasing us through your tunnels a 'tiny lil mishap',” the pegasus grumbled. “How are the books?”

“Oh, they're just fine,” Twilight snapped. “Hundreds of year old texts, just toss some mud and water over them.”

“Ah said ah was sorry!” Applejack grumbled back.

“Come on everypony, smile!” Pinkie said as she hopped besides them. “We're here, see? We'll soon be back in the walls of the city, they'll prepare for the attack, Twilight can find out about the elements and then we might even find Spike! Everything will be nice and tied up and good to go! Hee hee,” the mare said with a giggle.

The alicorn looked up at the towering wall as they stopped. Once again, ponies were jumping down it to greet them. “Yeah. I guess we made it here. I'll do what I can for the books, then we can... then we can...” she stopped as she let out a yawn. “Get a lot of sleep...”

“Sleep sounds pretty good about now...” Rainbow grumbled before looking to the earth bender. “Hey... sorry. That was just the tired talking. I'm just grouchy without my naps...”

“Mmm hmmm...” the cow pony said with a yawn.

“Avatar! You've returned,” Harshwhinny said as she landed besides them. “Please, come with me. There is much to discuss.”

“Hmmm? Oh. Right,” Twilight mumbled as they followed the earth pony inside. “We... there's more. I mean, there's a large force of the Water Nation, it's making its way here, and they have... wha?” She shook her head. “Gah! There is a large force of soldiers on their way to attack. We passed them and they should be here any day. Defenses must be prepared immediately.”

“Of course, avatar. You'll have to discuss this with the emperor. I have been ordered to take you straight to him upon your arrival, so please don't dally,” the mare said as she led them through the city and towards the palace. Before they knew it, the five drowsy ponies stood in front of Fancy's large throne, Photo and Sapphire on either side of him. The latter of which kept glaring at the former.

“Ah, a pleasure to see you again! I have been expecting your return,” the stallion said as he got up. “There is-”

“No, please,” Twilight said. “There's no time to delay. The Water Nation is on its way. A huge force, y-you must prepare defenses immediately.”

“I assure you, my forces are more than ready for any attack,” Sapphire hmphed. “Our wall is seeeeeeeeensational! It hasn't been penetrated in over-”

“It might not be enough! There forces are tremendous,” the alicorn interrupted. “You need to be ready. Everything you can needs to be prepared.”

“I don't think-”

“Now, Sapphire,” Fancy interrupted. “Please go and prepare for this assault. If the avatar believes it is such a threat, we'd best be prepared.”

“But-”

“That's an order.”

The earth pony narrowed her eyes on the avatar, before nodding. “Very well...” she growled as she skulked from the room. Photo smirked as her rival left.

“Now, avatar! I have something very important I wish to show you!”

“Huh?” Twilight asked as she blinked blearily. She could hear soft snores from her friends as they struggled to stay awake, not all succeeding. “Oh... right. I... I need to go through the library. I need to find information. Some records of certain dates...”

“Yes yes, whatever you like. However, before all that, there is something I have just been dying to show you. Come out, ladies!” the stallion said.

After a few moments, two mares walked out from the doorway besides the throne. One was a white unicorn with a blue mane, with bright cyan stripes. Most importantly, she was wearing glasses with thin purple lens and a wide smirk on her face. The other was a gray earth pony with a dark gray mane. The mare stared with eyes that would make the stoutest of ponies shuffle their hooves.

The avatar was unable to move for a few moments as she stared. Then, with a loud shriek, she lunged forward and gripped both in a tight hug. “Octavia! Vinyl! You're alive! You're safe!”

“Of course. You didn't think I'd let that wet behind the ears general take me down, did you?” the unicorn asked with a chuckle. “I got us out of there easily. Isn't that right, Octy?”

“Your memory of events is far different than mine, Vinyl,” the earth pony said with a hmph. “But yes, we... avatar?” She gently nudged the alicorn with a hoof before sighing as she glanced to her comrade. “It appears she passed out.”

“Obviously being in my awesome presence was just too much and overwhelmed the poor mare,” Vinyl said with a snicker.

“That, or judging by the state her and her comrades are in, they desperately need some rest and relaxation,” Octavia grumbled as she looked down at them. “Your highness, with your permission we'd like to end this meeting early? It appears the avatar is in no state to discuss matters with us. Perhaps we can reschedule to tomorrow? Perhaps to a time when our apparent savior is not drooling on my shoulder?

“Yes,” the stallion mumbled as he rubbed his chin. “Ah, of course! Let's allow them a full nights rest. Then, tomorrow I know a great place where we can all have a wonderful discussion while they recover. There is this delightful little spa run by-”

“Y-you don't mean in the city, do you?” Octavia squeaked with wide, horrified eyes. “You can't mean to go yourself? There could-”

“Oh, you worry too much,” the stallion said with a wave of his hoof. “I'll have Photo go on ahead and everything will be fine. Besides, you said it yourself. They do need some proper relaxation, and I can think of no place better than the Sapphire Tiger.”

“A-and... and s-so I just quit. I couldn't, I couldn't stay after she did that. I-I'm so sorry,” Coco sobbed, tears flooding down her face. “I-I didn't know she'd actually do it, I never thought, I just... I...”

“It's okay dear, shhhh,” Celestia whispered as she hugged the pony close. “What you did was very, very brave. It is not easy to admit to your mistakes.”

“Are... a-are you going t-to have me arrested?” the earth pony asked with a quiver.

The unicorn glanced up to Aloe and Lotus, both of which sighed. After a moment, she lowered her gaze. “No.”

“T-thank you...” she said gently before looking up. “I... I don't suppose you're hiring?”

“That... I suppose may be possible. But we'd have much to discuss then,” she glanced over to Rarity and Blueblood. “Everything is cleaned up now, you may leave if you like. No need to stay and watch us discuss business if you'd rather-” The two were gone before she could even finish the sentence.

“Your mother is... a very interesting mare,” Blueblood mumbled as they trotted upstairs. “Very kind, very forgiving. I see the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.”

Rarity rolled her eyes. “Please. I'm nothing like her. She's a lot smarter, more talented and all around- huh?” She stopped as the stallion turned and blocked her way.

His cheeks turned a bright red as he quivered under her gaze. He slowly opened his mouth, the words fighting to tie up his tongue as he talked. “T-tomorrow. T-tomorrow morning! Would you... would you accompany me to the spa? I mean, t-they said we could come at any time. If you'd like to, I mean.”

“I suppose,” Rarity said with a shrug. “No need to get so flustered. There's nothing wrong with going to a spa alone, but if you're so shy I will be happy to accompany you.” She trotted past him as he moved aside. Once her back was to him she blushed red, trying desperately to stare ahead and not glance back at him. She quickly entered her room and closed the door, placing a hoof over her chest as she shook her head. “Remember... avatar. You don't have time for... silliness. He's just a friend, you have to remember that...” she mumbled as she glanced to the door. “Avatar comes first. She has to...”

Chapter 25: Spa Days

Five exhausted ponies laid comfortably in their beds, wrapped tightly in thick, warm blankets. Even though the sun was beginning to rise, none of them seemed the least bit willing to attempt awakening. Sadly, such decisions have a tendency to backfire.

Vinyl was fully intent on making it one of those times as she happily trotted through the castle, a smirk on her face. She soon stopped in front of the door of the five. With the gentlest of movements, she opened it. “Awwww,” she said softly as she saw the five ponies sleeping sound. “Such heavy sleepers, tut tut.” She propped the door open and walked away.

A few moments later the unicorn returned, tugging along a massive gong the size of three Big Macs. She picked up a pair of fuzzy blue earmuffs and put them on, before gripping the rod in her magic.

Octavia hummed softly as she trotted down the hall towards the avatar and company. “I wonder if they've awoken yet. Oh, their door is op-” Suddenly, the entire castle shook as a massive crack shook the building to its foundations, echoing through the halls and jarring the earth pony's body into the air. A moment later a gong shot out of the room, followed by fire balls, clocks, rocks and a retreating Vinyl, laughing maniacally.

“They're up!” the unicorn yelled happily as she ran past. Octavia just stared, but moved aside as the unicorn galloped past. A moment later Twilight, Rainbow, Applejack and a very angry bunny galloped from the room, after her.

The earth bender let out a loud sigh before shaking her head. “Oh Vinyl. Sometimes I wonder about you.”

“You're up early,” Celestia said as she trotted down into the kitchen, glancing at Blueblood.

“Huh? Oh, I was ummm, just making some tea. Would you like some?” the stallion asked as he held up the teapot, a nervous grin on his face.

“Of course,” she said as she sat down. She soon drank from from a small glass, frowning as she stared at it. “An... interesting flavor. Which leaves did you use?”

“All of them,” he mumbled. “C-can I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“Did, uhhh, did you hire Coco? I mean, she was-”

“Yes, I did,” the unicorn said with a knowing smile, before struggling to take another drink of the tea. “She'll be here this morning. In fact, I believe her work will allow you and Rarity to escape for your little spa trip.”

Blueblood paled, his mouth falling open. “You... how did you... k-know?”

“Very little escapes my attention, Blueblood,” Celestia said as she sipped her tea. “You're choosing a dangerous path.”

“W-what? Path? What do-”

“My daughter is very special and dear to me. I'd suggest you think long and hard about what kind of relationship you wish to have with her. Be it friendship, or something more.”

“I was just, I mean, I never meant to, she was just, I-”

“She is a grown mare, she is allowed to make her own decisions. However...” she slowly put the tea down as her eyes narrowed into slits. “If you hurt her, I will destroy you.”

“I, I wasn't. I mean, I'd never try to hurt her. She's... really kind and... I was just... errr...” He nervously shuffled his hooves.

“Good. You seem to have a better control over that... annoying side of yourself, if nothing else. So I hope the two of you have a pleasant trip.”

“O-of course... we w-will...”

“Gooood morning!” Rarity sang as she trotted down the stairs. “Oh? You're up too?” she said to Blueblood. “Sleep okay?”

“Y-yeah. I uhhh, are you r-ready to go?”

“Mmmm hmmm. Just need to eat some breakfast. What do we have?”

“There's some fresh fruit under the counter. I sliced it up myself,” Celestia said as she narrowed her eyes on the stallion again, making him shiver.

“And then she was all 'fwoosh' and I was like 'yah' and then she was all 'craggle boom'!” Vinyl said excitedly as she, Octavia and the avatar's group traveled through the city. “Octy, you should have seen it!”

“Mmmm hmmm,” the earth pony mumbled as she looked over her friend. The unicorn was charred at places, had her glasses lopsided and was missing a large chunk of her mane. “I see that, truly, nothing can dampen your spirits. Was all that truly necessary?”

“Yes,” Twilight, Rainbow and Applejack said in unison.

Their unicorn guide suddenly stopped. “Oh, I almost forgot! There's a great little shop around here, going to get his royalness something,” the water bender said as she dipped into one of the shops.

“Vinyl, do you really have to do that now? The avatar and her friends are waiting to go.”

“I'll just be a moment, just hold your flanks.”

Across the street, Rarity and Blueblood stepped out of the Jasmine Dragon, the former gently humming as they walked. “It's been so long since I've been to a proper spa. I do hope they have all the required amenities.”

“I bet they'd have all the basics and ones we've never heard of,” he mumbled as he walked on her right, blocking the avatar's group from view as they walked.

“Oh? You've been to one before?”

“Not... quite.”

“Oh, you'll absolutely adore them then. It is just the most delightful experience. Now, come along,” she said as she popped open the door and trotted inside.

On the opposite side of the street, Vinyl popped out with a large, copper bowl. “There!”

“You got him an old bowl? Really? I'm sure he has plenty,” Octavia grumbled.

“Not just any old bowl. Look!” she wiped off the dirt, revealing a picture of a blue unicorn underneath. “This is one of those old novelty ones they put pictures of famous benders on! Trust me, guy like that? He loves this kind of junk.”

“Of course. Can we go now? Are you quite finished?”

“Yup! Geeze, Octy. Lighten up, we're going to a spa. It won't be any fun if you don't wanna be loose.”

“I don't know why you had to drag me along on this,” Rainbow grumbled as she crossed her hooves and flew behind them. “I don't do the whole... spa thing.”

“You do the nap thing awfully well,” Applejack said with a smirk. “Ah'm pretty sure yah'd feel right at home in one a these fancy spa thingies.”

“I nap because it's the best way to keep in my peek physical condition,” the pegasus said with a smirk. “Not because I want a bunch of froo froo poking and proding with, ugh, oils.”

“Oh, just try to enjoy yourself Rainbow,” Twilight said with a giggle. They walked into the building, just in time to see one of the doors nearby close. A pink earth pony smiled at them, gently waving.

“Hello, how can I...” the mare trailed off as her eyes went wide. “Oh... my... you're... you're the avatar!” she practically whispered as she stared at Twilight.

“Oh, well, yes. I am. We-”

“We came here for your most expensive spa treatment package!” Vinyl interrupted. “Courtesy of Emperor Fancy Pants!”

“Vinyl!” Octavia hissed.

“What? He said he'd pay for whatever we wanted.”

“We are not buying the most expensive thing.”

“But-”

“No!” the earth pony snapped and then smiled. “We'll take a basic spa package, for seven. His highness will be joining us later, he had some important business to attend to. Is that okay?”

“Y-yes!” the mare squeaked. “M-my name is Aloe, just please come with me!” The excited mare almost tripped over her hooves as she led them to a door, sliding it open to reveal the large heated spa behind it.

“Huh?” Rarity asked as she looked up towards the entrance to the familiar pony. “Oh, Lotus, you're back.” the princess said as she leaned back in the small, bubbling hot tub. Blueblood was sitting opposite her, his face a bright red.

“Mmmm hmmm. Are you two enjoying yourselves?” the blue earth pony asked as she gently placed down the tray. On it were two glasses, filled with a liquid that smelled of pineapple.

“Yes. This private spa feels absolutely marvelous,” the princess said as she rubbed her face. “Are you sure it's okay, though? What if another pony wishes to rent it?”

“Oh, don't you worry about that,” the mare said with a giggle. “We've actually just had a large group arrive, so it's best you two are in our private locations. I hope it's not too small?”

“Not at all. I don't know how I could ever thank you for such kindness,” Rarity said with a content sigh. “You and your sister have been the most generous, delightful ponies I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. I wish there was some way I could thank you.”

“Oh, your mother is all the thanks we need,” Lotus grinned malevolently as she rubbed her hooves together. “We've been waiting so long for a pony like her. One who could create such breath taking tea. The perfect warm drink to go with such wonderful spa treatments. Yes, soon our influence will spread even farther as the entire country becomes aware of our... of our... errrr...” she trailed off as the two unicorns stared at the plotting mare with wide eyes. She shook her head, waving a hoof dismissively. “Don't mind me. Just enjoy and relax. Once you're ready I have a wonderful masseuse waiting for you two. They are absolutely the best.”

“Thank you, we'll be ready soon,” Rarity said before the earth pony gave a nod and trotted away. “Blueblood, are you too hot? Your face is as redder than I've ever seen one.”

“I-I'm fine,” he squeaked as he watched her. “You ummm... your hair looks quite...” he gulped as he blushed. “D-dazzling when wet...”

She snickered. “Oh, no need to make stuff up, darling. I know I don't look my best, but it's the spa! A chance for me to, let my hair down. So to speak. Just don't pass out, okay?” she said before climbing from the tub and trotting out the door. The stallion squeaked as he watched her go, sinking lower into the water. “Lotus?” Rarity called out.

“In here,” the earth pony said as she popped out from the nearby room, holding the door open. “Come along.”

Rarity trotted inside. As the door closed behind her, the door on the opposite side of the hall popped open.

“Avatar, it's fine,” Aloe said with a giggle as she wiped a towel through her mane.

“I'm so, so, so sorry! I don't know what came over her,” the alicorn squeaked, though she stopped as the earth pony turned and placed a hoof to her chest.

“Relax, avatar. It is fine. We get guests like your pegasus friend on occasion. That's why we have the manacles and saddle,” Aloe said as she trotted towards the front desk.

“Heh heh, good one,” Twilight giggled. She then paused. “Wait. That was a joke? Right? Miss Aloe?” The alicorn paled and trotted after the earth pony.

“Not. Happening,” Rainbow growled.

“Come on, it'll be fun!” Pinkie said with a giggle.

“I'd rather get run over by a tank.”

“Just try one, pleeeeease?” Twilight asked as she laid out on the massage table, her friends all getting prepped for theirs.

“I don't do massages. Or any of that-”

“Ah bet you're jus' scared,” Applejack said with a smirk.

“... What did you say?”

“Scared. Yah don't wanna have one'a them deep tissue massages an' let us see yah cryin' like a filly,” the earth bender said with a smirk.

“Rainbow Dash isn't scared of anything!” the pegasus growled before doing a loop in the air. “I could take ten of those massages, no, a hundred! I wouldn't make a peep!”

“Heh, prove it. Ah bet ah could endure one ah those massages for a heckava lot longer than you could.”

“Um, girls, there's no need to-” Twilight started.

“You're on! I'll make you choke on those words!” Rainbow growled as she dove into one of the massage couches. “Get to work. Your most painful massage.”

“Errr, I don't think we-” the massage mare started, but was silenced by a wave of hooves.

“Just do it! I'll see you crying like a filly who lost her lollipop in ten minutes,” Rainbow said with a smirk.

“Heh, don't count on it, feather butt,” Applejack said with a matching smirk as the masseuses got to work.

The avatar held a hoof to her head and shook it. “Sometimes I wonder about them... I'll take a gentle one, please. Careful with the wings, they're new.” Her masseuse nodded and quickly got to work. Within moments she was struggling to stay awake as gentle hooves kneaded her muscles. She glanced to Applejack and Rainbow, both completely still and biting their lips, struggling not to whimper from their... much more powerful experiences.

“Mmm-mm-mmm-mm y-y-y-yea-ah,” Rarity groaned as her masseuse thumped on her back, playing the muscles like a drum. “It's been farrrr too long since I've had an experience like this...”

“Oh, I can tell,” the pony said with a disappointed shake of her head. “You are so tense. Have you been under a lot of stress lately?”

“Traveling all over the country, constantly running from ponies who want to do nothing but cause me more problems, stress, vengeance, not to mention all the... it's a long story,” the unicorn mumbled as she glanced to Blueblood. “How about you?”

“I-I think- YEOW! She p-popped something!” the stallion whimpered as his masseuse aligned his body. “Owie, why are you... oh... ohhhhhhh...” he moaned loud and happy. Rarity's face turned bright red as his pained sounds turned to... extremely pleased ones.

“P-please remember we are in a public place,” the unicorn squeaked with a bright red face.

“E-eep, s-sorry. I just f-forgot for a moment,” he said with a nervous gulp. He glanced to her and smiled. “Are... are you enjoying yourself?”

“Yes, this was a marvelous idea. I do hope my... mother and Coco are doing well.”

“It's only the second day, how busy... I'm sure they'll be fine. They both seem quite capable. Maybe after we could, ummm... get something to eat... just... just the two of us.”

“Sir? I'll need you to relax, you're tensing up again,” his masseuse said firmly.

“S-sorry...” he squeaked as he went limp.

“You know what? Dinner sounds absolutely delightful. It has been so long since I've had a meal I or my mother didn't have to prepare ourselves. We'll have to wait until this evening though, after the shop closes. I don't want to leave her short hoofed longer than needed.”

“What? Oh! O-of course!” the stallion said with a wide grin. “I'll find us someplace truly deserving of your, ummm, tastes,” he said with a nervous squeak as his tail happily flicked behind him.

“Sir, please stop wagging," the masseuse said with a sigh.

“S-sorry!”

“Y-you done yet?” Rainbow asked as she glared at Applejack, her eyes filled with tears.

“N-not on your l-life! A-ah could... a-ah could do this all d-day!” the earth pony choked out.

“Well, while you two have fun with that, we're going to move on to the mud baths. Come visit us when you get the chance,” Twilight said as she trotted out from the room.

“This has been just so delightful,” Fluttershy said with a happy sigh. “What a wonderful way to spend the morning.”

“Yeah, I wonder where Octavia and Vinyl got-” The alicorn was interrupted as the nearby door was blown off its hinges and mud billowed out from the room. “Think we found them.”

The three ponies peered into the room and, sure enough, Octavia and Vinyl were fighting it out in an epic mud battle to end all. Both were covered from head to toe in the filthy glop and taking cover behind upturned tables. The spa ponies were hiding behind their own tables, wearing helmets.

“Does this happen often?” Twilight asked with a groan.

“More often than you'd think. Happens in a city of earth benders,” the mare said with a shrug, cringing as a hoofful of mud splattered across the wall.

“Okay, that's it,” Twilight stepped forward, opening her mouth to speak, but receiving a double helping of mud and toppling over backwards with a shriek.

“Vinyl, look what you've done!” Octavia hissed. “You hit the avatar!”

“What I did? You started it!” the water bender yelled as she sent another glob of mud into the air.

The earth bender stepped to the side, letting it splat against the wall before thrusting her hoof out, sending a wave of mud at the other.

“Enough!” Twilight finally screamed as she got to her hooves, mud coating her entire body from the assault. “You are both... supposed to be mature grown ups! I don't care why you're fighting, but stop it! Get back in the mud and stop ruining our spa trip or I'm sending you both back to the palace and you can sit in time out!” she screamed, her wings standing tall in an aggressive stance.

“Y-yes'm...” Vinyl squeaked as she sat in the mud.

“Whatever you say,” Octavia said as well as she slid in.

“Good, now, let's enjoy ourselves,” the alicorn snapped as she trotted down into the mud as well, while the spa ponies got to work bending the mud back into the pools. She closed her eyes as she laid back, resting her head against the side of the spa. The others snickered as they watched her. “What? What's wrong?”

“You forgot to get wrapped up, silly,” Pinkie said as the spa ponies got to work on her and Fluttershy.

“Oh... I... oh...” she blushed bright red. “W-well... I-I'm sure it will be fine. Those two already coated me in the stuff, not like I could get any muddier. Though, I can't help but wonder. Why don't we do this more often?”

“Because we're always running for our lives or falling from the sky or fighting off the Water Nation or having awesome giant fights with giant bears or dragons or other things!” Pinkie yelled as she jumped into the air. Everypony shrieked and covered themselves but, as she came closer to the surface, she slowed down and gently fell into the mud.

“How... did you do that?” Twilight asked, her mouth open.

“Oh silly, I know better than to cause a mess here,” the earth pony giggled.

“Yeah, if only all ponies realized that,” the alicorn said as she glanced at the two troublemakers, who looked sheepishly down at the mud.

“So, you wanted to talk, what about?” Vinyl asked. “It seemed really important last night.”

“Oh, well... you see... Spike was kidnapped after being hurt by the elements of harmony. Which... okay, they're a very powerful tool of the avatar. With them, I can defeat Discord and, possibly, the entirety of the Water Nation. Now, I thought we had them all figured out but...” Twilight's gaze lowered as she sunk into the mud. “I... I was wrong. I thought Spike was the sixth, but he wasn't. I was so... so stupid. He's... trapped in some weird state now. I thought I could find answers in this old temple, but we were tricked. The place had been abandoned and there were pirates there who fooled us into thinking they were the tenants. They stole Spike and we have no idea where they took him.”

“Oh, you poor dears,” Octavia said with a frown. “The emperor could possibly put a search out for him? He-”

“I could put a search out for what, hmm?” Fancy asked as he trotted inside, accompanied by Photo. The mare took one look and shook her head.

“No! Such... such mess! Everywhere! This... this will not do!” the earth pony looked around, a hoof under her chin. “You! Spa pony! We require... the sauna! Prepare it immediately!”

“This is quite alright, a mud bath-”

“No! You are ze emperor! I will not have you frolicking around in this used mud like some sort of... sort of animal! Prepare the sauna!” the earth pony clapped her hooves together.

The emperor merely chuckled as he was pulled away by his excitable guard. “I will see you in the saunas then!”

“I guess we'd better get cleaned up then...” Twilight said as she got to her hooves and started climbing out. She then paused. “Pinkie, Fluttershy, you two can wait here. I just need to discuss some things with them. Octavia, Vinyl, I might need you.”

“Coming,” Octavia said as she crawled out, followed momentarily by Vinyl. The three trotted out of the room right as the door opposite them opened. Rarity and Blueblood stepped out, stopping as the mud covered ponies trotted by.

“That's... that's...” Rarity gasped, her mouth falling open. “They have mud baths here! It has been sooooo long since I've had a proper mud bath.”

“Oh? Well, it seems they're finished up in there. If you two would like to go in? I can wrap you,” Lotus said with a smile.

“That sounds marvelous. Blueblood? What do you say?” the unicorn asked with a wide grin on her face.

“T-that sounds like it would be... marvelous,” the stallion echoed with a nervous smile as he trotted after the two. As they walked inside, the unicorn cringed as he saw the two ponies already sharing a mud bath.

“Oh, is this part of the group you mentioned?”

“Indeed, I'm sorry ladies,” Lotus said quickly. “I saw your friends leaving and I assumed-”

“Oh, don't worry about it, you silly billy, the more the merrier!” Pinkie said with a giggle. Blueblood's eyes went wide as he squeaked.

“Diamondeye, you know what sounds really good right now? We should go for a dip in the sauna! Yes, I mean, a steam in the sauna, we can come back for the mud baths when they're done!” the stallion said quickly as he tugged on her hoof.

“Huh? Oh, I ummm, suppose... would that be okay?” the unicorn mare asked Lotus as she was pulled back.

“Oh, of course,” the earth pony smiled as she closed the door and led them down the hall towards a small sauna room and began preparing it. “This is our smaller, private room. You two won't be disturbed.”

Once the two were sitting, Rarity gave Blueblood a confused look. “What was that about?”

“W-what? Nothing, just... I was ummm... just... in the mood for a s-sauna...” he mumbled as he rocked back and forth. “Two for flinching...”

“What?”

“N-nothing.”

“Those ponies left really quickly,” Fluttershy mumbled as she wiggled in the mud bath. “You don't think we upset them, d-do you?”

“Nuh uh! I bet they just realllllly wanted to use the sauna.”

“They sounded kind of familiar, don't you think so?” the pegasus asked.

“Mmmm, nahhhhh. The first one looked kinda familiar but Rarity would never cut her mane, not in a hundred million billion gadzipulupadoopillion years! Her tail, maybe, but not her mane. Blueblood's black eye healed nicely though.”

“... O-okay?” Fluttershy squeaked. “Wait, did you just say-”

“Look, I can make mud angels!”

“So after that, we tried chasing them,” Twilight said as she leaned back against the sauna's walls. “But, when we came to Los Pegasus, the entire city was in ruins. They destroyed it. Every building, all the ships, so many dead. We knew we had to come here to warn everypony. We even passed by the army on our way here. It was... massive. We had to go under it.”

“Fascinating...” Fancy said as he rubbed his chin. “I've had Sapphire prepare our greatest defenses. You can rest sound knowing that their assault will fail. Our walls are impenetrable.”

“Yeah... what was wrong with Sapphire? She seemed so angry.”

“That... showboater, hmph,” Photo snapped as she shook her head from side to side. “She haz no idea what her position truly is. She thinks she can go beyond it whenever she pleases! Iz disgraceful!”

“She's just a little angry because I'm not forcing Vinyl and Octavia to discuss their current hidden location with any pony,” Fancy said with a chuckle. “She's worried I don't trust her, but the truth is I haven't given that information to any pony.”

“Yup!” Vinyl said with a wild giggle. “There are a lot of ponies here who would just jump at a chance, any chance, to take down a water bender. I didn't bring any of the others with me, just in case anything went bad. It's enough trouble having one water bender here.”

“Well, one free water bender,” Fancy said with a sigh. “We still have the hundreds captured after the Cloudsdale assault, locked away in our dungeons. But those ponies aren't the slightest threat. Perhaps once this war is over, we'll be able to release them and feel peace through our lands again.”

“I can only hope,” Twilight said with a sigh.

“You mentioned these elements of harmony? What exactly are they?” the emperor asked with a grin.

“Oh, those? Powerful tools of the avatar!” the alicorn said with a grin. “They depend on the alicorn and five other wielders, but when used they can create enormous... power, I think, I'm not quite sure. They were what was used to seal up Discord all those years ago. However, Clover was... apparently different. Sorta. She was terrified of having others near her. Of getting other ponies hurt due to her powers and responsibilities as the avatar. She never really made friends because of it. However, the elements were needed. She was able to use them, without having five friends. Now, when I went through the books I managed to find two separate occasions where she used them, but I was unable to determine what allowed her to. I have the dates though, so I want to go through the kingdom's records and find out what was going on near those times. It might help me.”

“Fascinating, truly fascinating,” the stallion mumbled as he rubbed his chin. “And, if you can find what is allowing this, you'll be able to defeat the Water Nation?”

“Possibly. I should, hopefully, be capable of defeating not just the Water Nation, but putting a permanent stop in their plans to unleash Discord. I can use them to save everypony.”

“Then it's decided. Once you and your friends have had the rest you require, I will allow you full and unhindered access to the royal library. If there is any information about them, it would be there.”

“Thank you, your highness. Did you have any more questions?”

“Actually, I did have one. I'd love to hear more about your bending training. How many have you learned so far?”

“Oh, I've began studying earth bending. It's been very difficult, but I have an excellent teacher and...”

“Blueblood, you're staring again,” Rarity mumbled as she wiped sweat from her fur.

“S-sorry, I was just... d-distracted...” he squeaked as he watched her. The way her short mane went down her body, the soft delicate clumps of fur, her tail smooth and silky. Every single inch of her made him want to... run from the room and hide behind the nearest wall. He'd never felt so intimidated before! He could hardly believe it. Him of all ponies, intimidated by such a small, weak, sexy, kind mare?

“What by? I don't see how you can even see anything in this thick mist,” she mumbled as she leaned back.

“Oh, I can see plenty. You, ummm, you know, you're quite the fascinating mare. I mean... I never would have thought it when I first met you. At first I thought you were kind of... simple. Lower class. Some kind of pathetic little mare hoping and trying to make yourself a refined, upper class pony.”

“Wow. Just... wow. Couldn't go one little trip while containing your stupid insults, could you?”

“No! I mean, that's n-not what I meant! It's what I thought but... but I was wrong. I mean, I... t-the longer I've spent with you, the more I've... the more I've seen the amazing sides of you. How kind you are. How generous. The way you... always looked out for me. Even saved me a few times,” the stallion nervously poked his hooves together. “I just... I wanted... I wanted to thank you and apologize. I'm sorry I ever thought those things of you.” He reached out and took her hoof. “I mean this. I have never, in my entire life, met any pony as refined and wonderful as you. Everywhere you go, you light up the world with your presence.”

“I... I...” she squeaked as he leaned in closer.

“Diamondeye... I...” He put a hoof on the opposite side of her, moving closer, his eyes locking with hers. His mouth opened slightly as he moved ever closer. “I think I'm in-”

“KYAAAAAAA!” Rarity screamed as her horn lit up. The water from the bucket nearby surged up and slammed into him, knocking him off her with a pained groan. He slammed into the wall, confusion on his face as he looked down.

A moment later his eyes narrowed as he turned his gaze on her, his mouth curled in a sneer as his eyes narrowed into slits. “You're a water bender?” he growled at her.

The door suddenly opened as Lotus peered inside. “I heard a scream, what's going- ahhh!” she let out a shriek as she was nearly toppled over by Rarity, who ran down the hall and out the door.

“What happened? What did you do?” the earth pony asked as she narrowed her eyes on him.

“I didn't, she just, we...” He closed his eyes and shook his head. “Just... I just need some time to think. Please leave me alone.”

“But she-”

“Just leave!” the stallion yelled, making the mare cringe and slam the door shut. Once she was gone he let out a loud yell before slamming his hoof into the wall as hard as he could, ignoring the pain as it arched through his leg. “She's a bucking... damn bucking water bender... I should have known... I should... I should have known.”

“What was all that yelling about?” Twilight asked as she looked up from her hooficure.

“I'm not sure, but your two friends might have finished their.... little competition,” Aloe said as she continued filing the alicorn's hooves. “My goodness darling, when is the last time you were at a spa? Your hooves are an absolute mess! I haven't seen any this badly tended to since... since...”

“I-I'm on a life and death journey to save the world from a spirit of chaos and disharmony, I-I don't get much time to stay at spa's,” the mare grumbled as she hung her head. “I-I try my hardest though...”

“It's fine, dear. I'll take extra good care of you. You need new horse shoes as well, when was the last time you replaced them?”

“... Replaced them? I ummmm... I think... about... a hundred years ago.”

“... No wonder you've outgrown them so much. I can't believe some mares... We'll set you and your friends up with brand new ones. You see, this is how some ponies end up walking lop sided. I can't imagine what goes through that mind of yours. Just because you're the avatar doesn't mean you can't take care of yourself every once in a while. Everypony should be spoiled now and again.”

Twilight blushed as she looked down. “I'll... I'll see what I can do. Ummm, how much longer will this take?”

“Not long, but your friends are still-”

“I know, they're still enjoying themselves. I'm going to head back early though. There are a bunch of books I'm just dying to go through. You see, I might finally be able to find the source of this... well, let's just say it's important. So very, very important. In fact, if I solve this I might be able to end the war now! No more fighting, no more Water Nation attacks!”

The earth pony nodded. “I see. Well, while all that is wonderful news. Amazing even, it doesn't excuse such bad care of yourself. I'm going to give you some lotions and hoof tools to use at home, okay? You'll need them if you want any chance of properly saving the world. Or at least, not damaging your hooves beyond repair...”

“Yes ma'am...” the alicorn mumbled as she looked at the ground. Soon, she was finished and loaded down with a large bag of assorted supplies for home tending and, only after promising to read a small booklet on proper hoof treatment, allowed to leave. She galloped through the street, passing by a startled white unicorn. “Sorry!”

“Hey, w-watch where you're running you... you... wait,” Rarity twitched. “Is that the avatar? I... no!” she shook her head and galloped into the shop, darting past Coco who was serving tables. “Jademane!” she hissed to her aunt. “I have, something bad happened. I just, we need to... what are you doing?”

“Making biscuits,” Celestia said as she turned with a large smile. “I thought it would be a wonderful addition. It's just one of a number of other additions we can make to the shop, to help... what's wrong?”

“I... I ummm, n-nothing. I just, errr, I'll talk to you later,” Rarity squeaked as she quickly galloped from the shop, leaving her aunt behind and confused. She darted towards the spa, stopping short of the door as she chewed on her lower lip. “O-okay, think. Think. I need... I need to tell him something. Something to... I could try stabbing him?” she mumbled as she paced by the building. “No, too many witnesses... I can... I can just... I need to... something...” she muttered.

“Everything is ready, your highness,” Shadowblade said as she bowed before Sweetie. The unicorn stood in front of her army, their massive ranks standing overlooking the great wall of Fillydelphia.

“Perfect. Then one last thing,” she said as she turned to gaze at her awaiting ponies. “Soldiers! Today marks a great day in our nations history! For today, once the sun sets, marks the beginning of the fall of Fillydelphia! Gaze upon those walls one final time! For tomorrow you will surround them and, within the week, they will fall!”

The soldiers yelled and stomped their hooves, causing the ground to shake underneath their vast numbers. The unicorn chuckled as she turned her back towards them and trotted towards the city. A moment later Scootaloo and Flowerbloom moved to her side. “Are yah sure about this?” the earth pony asked.

“I can think of no better way to destroy this city. We have the numbers, and the wisdom, to perform it. This will be my greatest triumph. Once I have finished, none will dare question me again,” she then glanced to her friends with a smile. “Even more important, none will ever question your loyalty again.”

Flowerbloom smiled as she looked to the ground. “Thank you, your highness.”

Chapter 26: Sinking Feeling

Twilight squealed with delight as she stacked book after book on a large table. She stood in the royal library of Fillydelphia, surrounded by massive shelves filled to the brim with ancient texts. Books on magic, bending and, most importantly, history towered over her all the way to the large domed roof above.

The three ancient books they had found now lay strewn out on the table, slightly damaged but still legible. With a quill and scroll she quickly got to work, writing notes as her studious eyes scanned and dissected each word. Dust filled the air as tomes that had been left unopened for a hundred years now saw the light of candles. “Fascinating...” she whispered while trembling.

A loud squeal broke from her lips as she wrote in her notes. “Of course. She was a fire bender. That day was the... that's it! It's all so simple, how come no pony figured this out before?” She froze for a few seconds before face hoofing. “Of course. No pony probably cared before. Eeee, I can't wait to tell everypony!” She said as she galloped from the room.

“Ahem?” a guard pony said as she passed.

“What?”

“Lady avatar, you hooves,” the guard said as she motioned the way the alicorn had come.

A long trail of dust led to the avatar and she quickly looked down, blushing at the tremendous amount of ancient dust coating her hooves. “I-I'm so sorry! I'll go clean this up immediately, where's the nearest bathroom?”

The stallion pointed with a sigh, before getting down on his knees to clean it up.

She darted to the bathroom and reached for the faucet, twisting it on with a sigh. Nothing came out. “That's strange...” she muttered as she moved onto the next, then the next after that. Finally, she had to settle on just wiping her hooves off on a towel.

“I'm so, so sorry!” Aloe squeaked as she poured the bucket of water over Pinkie and Fluttershy, while others scrubbed the mud off them. “I have no idea what's going on with our water supply. I assure you, this is not common.”

“I-it's okay, really, it- eek!” the pegasus squeaked as the bristles dug more of the mud from her coat. “I-it's fine, really...”

“I'm so sorry. We'll have all this mud out and you'll be able to lounge in our baths as soon as it's out. Lotus!” Aloe called out as the blue mare walked in through the door. “Did you find the problem?”

“No. But, we're not the only ones. Aside from stored water, every building on the block is dry as a bone. The underground system must be damaged.”

The pink mare shook her head. “They're probably doing more maintenance. I wish they would do a better job of alerting us. Last time it was two days notice, this time none at all.”

Blueblood walked by the room, his eyes focused down the hall as he made his way towards the exit. His mouth was set in a scowl, eyes narrowed as he ground his hooves into the tile floor. He shoved both doors aside, stepping outside and scanning the street. It took him a moment to catch sight of the princess. “Diamondeye! We need to talk.”

Rarity squeaked, her entire body going rigid and mane going on end after the stallion's fierce arrival. “W-what? I, ummm, o-okay...” she squeaked as her eyes moved towards the door. They didn't open again, so she slowly walked towards him.

“I haven't told anyone,” he growled. “I... I'll deal with this. Come,” he ordered as he began trotting away, heading down one of the alleys. She followed after him, chewing nervously on her lip.

“Blueblood, I didn't-”

“Stop,” he said as he looked left and right. “I... I know. You're a... you're a water bender. The most... some of the worst ponies in existence. Just the thought that I almost kissed you makes my stomach flip.” He frowned as he turned towards her, moisture in his eyes. “I thought you sickened me. But I... I can't... I can't stop it! I can't stop... thinking about you,” he said as he began pacing back and forth. “The way your mane looks when it's wet, the way you look so cute sleeping wrapped up in a little ball, the way you have to align your food on its plate and cut it into even pieces before you'll eat it.”

“I... what?” Rarity asked as she cocked an eye. “Don't you mean-”

“I still love you!” he shrieked before charging in front of her. “Or... I mean... I really like you. A lot. More than I've ever liked anypony before. I know you're a water bender, and I'm a fire bender, but I don't care. Even if we're supposed to be worst enemies and... and... I don't care. You're a kind, sweet, generous mare. The nicest I've ever met. More importantly, you're beautiful and sexy, the kind of mare any stallion would go to war for. I... I'm sorry I lashed out before. I was surprised. Startled. But I understand now. You're obviously a refuge from the Water Nation, escaping their vial country. I can live with that. Besides, I know it could be worse. It's not like you're the estranged daughter of their ruler or anything.”

“Err... well... actually...”

The stallion chuckled and shook his head. “Heh, funny.” The grin left his face as she stared at her nervous tapping of the ground. “You're... joking. Right?”

“Banished... daughter... actually,” the unicorn squeaked.

Blueblood just stared, his mouth open as his eyes wandered over her body. He then smiled, moving in to wrap a hoof around her shoulder and rub his nose against hers. “Fine. I... I can deal with that. The daughter of...” he shivered and shook his head. “I just need to not think about it much. Do you wish to exterminate all fire benders?”

“What? No! I was one of the ones helping stop my sister from destroying them! Sweetie is... oh. Oops.”

The stallion pulled back then, wobbling slightly. “W-wait... your sister... your sister is that... oh... I think I'm going to be... ohhhhhh...” he squeaked before finally falling over onto the ground, his eyes rolling back into his head.

“What? Blueblood! I'm sorry! I didn't mean it like that, I didn't want to tell you! It just kind of slipped out!” She shook him, while chewing her lower lip. “Please, wake up. I'm so sorry.”

“So, you're a princess as well? I knew it,” a mare's voice said from behind.

Rarity squeaked as she slowly turned around. Suri stood, a large grin on her face while she eyed the unicorn like a tiger eying its lunch. “W-what? I have no idea what you're-”

“Cram it! I heard everything. Not only a water bender, but a princess? Ohhh, I'm going to enjoy taking you down. I knew you were trouble, but this? It's just too much to believe!” the mare cackled maniacally. “I'll be a hero when I turn you over to the guards!”

“You're not turning me in anywhere. You're delusional! After all the problems you caused us, you-”

“Problems I've caused you? You cost me my assistant! Not to mention I've had myself completely cut off from the Sapphire Tiger! Do you have any idea how many commissions I got from them in a year? Oh, I'm going to enjoy this,” the earth pony stomped her hoof on the ground as a stone sword popped out. It was raised into the air and leveled on the unicorn. “Surrender. GUARDS! Guards! I've captured a water bender!” Suri yelled as she lunged. The blade shot out from the right, narrowly missing Rarity's horn as she ducked back.

“Stop it! Somepony, help!” the unicorn screamed as she was driven back by the flashing stone blade. “HELP!” She backed into the wall, narrowly ducking in time before the blade stabbed hilt deep into the wood.

Suri yanked the blade back with a growl. “Come on, you harlot! Water bend! I know you can! Do it! Do it now!” she screamed while slashing at the unicorn.

“You're insane! Leave me alone!” Rarity yelled while backing away. She knocked over a few crates and barrels while she looked for anything to defend herself with. One of the barrels was sliced to pieces, sending pickles flying at the princess. She shrieked and tried to shield her eyes, the liquid stinging her eyes. “H-help!” She rolled to the right, the sword narrowly missing as it skimmed against her leg.

“Give it up! Look, pickle juice! Bend it, bend it you fool! Show everypony what a creature you are! You monstrous little water bender! You and all your kind should be exterminated!” Suri yelled as she stomped her hoof again, a small pothole forming in the princess's path.

Rarity stepped into the hole, her leg locking and making her fall over with a shriek. The sword thrust forward. She tried yanking her hoof free, but the ground wrapped around it. “AHHH!” she screamed while she tried to lift her hooves up to defend herself.

“Graggk!” Blueblood yelled as the blade pierced his side, the stallion blocking the princess from the strike.

Suri's eyes went wide before she pulled the blade free. He collapsed to the ground, his body shaking as he struggled to breath. “Stupid fire bender. She's my target, not you!” She thrust her hoof forward and the sword flew through the air again. It burst into a cloud of dust before it could pass the bleeding stallion. “Huh?”

“You're under arrest,” a voice said from behind her. Three earth ponies in the kingdom's robes towered over her from behind.

“W-what? No! Don't arrest me, arrest her! She's a water bender! Listen, she, get your hooves off me!” Suri screamed while two of the soldiers detained her, gripping her hooves and dragging her away. The last ran to the felled unicorn.

“Is he breathing?” the earth pony asked.

“Y-yes, but he's having trouble. He needs help, p-please,” Rarity squeaked as she watched Blueblood bleed across the ground. She collapsed to her knees as her hooves wrapped around her stomach. “H-he was trying to protect me from that maniac! She just... she...”

The soldier frowned as he placed a hoof against the wound. “Lady, I'm going to need you to calm down. I'll do the best I can to save him. Just stay calm.”

“Is he... i-is he going to be okay?” Rarity asked as the wounded fire bender wheezed on the ground.

“I don't know. It looks like a lung was pierced. There's a lot of blood...” the stallion mumbled as he applied pressure, struggling to suppress it. “Help should be here soon.”

The princess chewed on her lower lip as she watched the dripping liquid of life. She took a deep breath and her horn began to glow as the blood slowed.

“I've done it!” Twilight squealed with excitement as she raced into the throne room. “I know how to use the elements, I... errr, what's going on?” Her mad gallop slowed to a gentle trot rapidly.

Fancy, Photo, Sapphire, Vinyl, Octavia, her friends and a number of ponies she couldn't identify were talking in the room, sitting around a long square table. “Ah, avatar! How wonderful of you to join us,” the emperor said with a smile. “I hope you have pleasant news?”

“Yes I do, what's all this about?” she asked before stopping in front of the table.

“Just some minor plumbing issues.”

“I said we had it handled,” Sapphire snapped, glaring at Photo. “It's only due to her insistence that this meeting was called. I should be-”

“If you could handle it, there would be no problem,” Photo hmphed. “Mah ponies should deal with this. They, for one, have ze necessary talent to NOT turn this into some... some deplorable sham!”

“Mah soldiers have more than enough talent tah kick a hundred of your soldiers flanks. Ah could handle this entire thing with one hoof behind mah back!” Sapphire yelled as she slammed a hoof down on the table.

“There's that accent again,” Pinkie said with a giggle.

“Look how she buckles under ze pressure,” Photo said with a hmph. “She is obviously not ready for such... such stress! Your highness, you should allow my ponies to work their magic!”

“This is my jurisdiction, you overpaid and overfed pebble bender!” Sapphire screamed as she got onto her hind hooves.

“Enough!” Fancy finally yelled, slamming his hooves down. “Avatar, you were saying?”

“Oh, umm, here!” She tossed a number of books on the table and pulled out a thin metal pointer. “So, I cross referenced the dates of the journal against the same dates in a number of historical books. Now, at first I didn't find anything aside from brief mentions of the things she defeated on one date, then nothing on the second. However, then I found this!” She held up a book with a picture of a cloud on it.

“A weather book?” Rainbow asked with a roll of her eyes.

“No, it's a... wait, yes. A weather book. How did you know?” the unicorn asked as she slouched, the book drooping in her magic.

“I was being sarcastic...”

“Oh. Well, yes. A weather book. Those two days were very, very important days to the fire benders! Now, let me show you.” She tossed a large chart, covered in pictures of the sun and moon, onto the table. “As you all know, fire benders share a connection with the sun, just as water benders share one with the moon. Now, what most don't know.” She aimed the pointer to a picture of the full moon. “Is during the full moon, a water benders power is at its strongest. In fact, for a short time while the moon is at its peak, their power increases exponentially. Fire benders have something similar, except rarer.” She motioned to a picture of the sun.

“Wait!” Rainbow said as she raised a hoof. “If that's true, why don't they just make the moon a full moon every night?”

“The cycles,” Twilight said with a grin. “You see, when the sun and moon are raised, their alignments shift ever so slightly. Causing the different moons and it's also the reason some days are shorter than others.” The group stared at her blankly. “O-oh. Right. Back in the past, they did. I guess going a hundred years without the... anyway. The cycles are back on track. Now, according to my calculations this will happen in a little over two months,” she motioned towards an image of the sun. She smiled knowingly, preening at her accomplishment.

“And that is what?” Fancy asked as he looked at the image.

“Oh. Right. The summer sun celebration, or the longest day of the year. Seventy days from now, when the sun rises, for about fifteen to twenty minutes the sun will be at its peak. During this time, a fire bender's power will be astronomical compared to its basic levels. It was at this time Avatar Clover was able to access the elements by herself. If I could get near enough before that time, I would have time to defeat Nightmare Moon for good.”

Vinyl let out a low whistle. “If you could defeat Nightmare Moon, that would put a large damper on the Water Nation's plans. She's seen as a god to some ponies. Without her, this war could be over.”

“Brilliant,” Fancy said as he watched her, his mouth hanging open slightly. “Just imagine, seventy days from now this war could be over.”

“Why can't you just hold the sun there, have super powered bending all the time?” Rainbow asked with a smirk. “It's what I'd do.”

“Yeah, and then you'd burn out your bending, if you survived,” the alicorn said with a roll of her eyes. “But here it is. With this, we can win!”

“That will mean nothing if Fillydelphia falls now,” Photo said with a hmph.

“I said I had it under control,” Sapphire hissed.

“Okay, will somepony please tell me what's going on?” Twilight asked as she sat down.

“It turns out there isn't any water coming out through the city's plumbing system,” Rainbow said with a shrug. “I suggested they move on to cloud basins, but they just glared at me.”

“... Huh?” the alicorn asked in confusion.

“Under our city there is a vast network of rivers,” Fancy said as he pushed her papers aside to reveal a map of the underground. “Through earth bending and modern technologies, we've set up a filtration system and a number of pipes that supply water everywhere in Fillydelphia.”

“It's a heavily monitored system,” Sapphire said with a scowl. “However, with the sudden influx of refuges and the large number of... extras, we've acquired.” The mare glared at Twilight. “It has obviously been over worked. It's too far underground for the water benders to have come close. I've already sent a few of my soldiers to check where the clog is, and once they are finished the city will be back in order.”

“Nonsense! This is obviously the work of the Water Nation!” Photo snapped, eyes narrowed on the mare. “You've been too lax on defenses, allowing them to assault the most important system we possess!”

“I've done no such thing! Our system is fine, it's a minor clog!” Sapphire growled before stomping a hoof, causing the entire room to shake.

“Sapphire!” Fancy yelled as he slammed both hooves down. “Enough!”

“But-”

“No. I sai-”

“Commander!” A stallion suddenly burst through the door, interrupting them. His coat was glistening with sweat and he was panting from exertion. “It's, it's horrible!”

“Who said you could interrupt? This is a private meeting,” Sapphire growled.

“The city, parts of the city. They're sinking into the ground!” the stallion said quickly.

Everypony shared glances, before running from the room.

Rarity sat in a chair in the infirmary, glancing occasionally at the tightly bandaged Blueblood. Her aunt stood in the chair besides her, sipping some tea.

“It's not your fault, you know,” Celestia said softly.

“I never said it was,” the princess grumbled.

“I know. But I can see the guilt in your eyes. The mare was... a troublemaker. She would have likely attacked you regardless of what she heard.” The elder unicorn gently nudged her niece with a cup of tea, who ignored it.

“I know it's not my fault!” she hissed. “I'm just... I'm just worried. He's hurt and...” She chewed on her lower lip. “Is he... is he going to die too?”

“I don't believe so,” Celestia said before she glanced towards the door. A few nurses galloped by, pushing gurneys around. “The healer said the wounds weren't quite as severe as they'd thought, since he didn't lose as much blood as he should have. So long as he avoids getting hurt again, he'll be fine.”

Rarity nodded and got to her feet. With trepidation, she moved to the stallion's side and stroked a hoof against his side. “Oh Blueblood... I'm so sorry you got hurt trying to protect me. Maybe I should have-”

The ground suddenly tilted to the right, tossing her to the floor. “Ow! What the buck was that?” Everything in the room began rolling slowly towards the wall opposite the two. “Jademane?”

“Hold on,” the mare said as she climbed up the tilted floor and made her way to the window. Outside, ponies were evacuating into the street as the ground slowly rose around them. Springs of dark blue water burst from the mud. “We need to get Blueblood out of here. Now.”

“What? Is it an earthquake?”

“Worse. The building is sinking. That's enchanted water. Deadly,” Celestia said before she turned back to them. “Wake him up.”

“Blueblood,” Rarity said loudly as she gripped him by the shoulders and shook. “Wake up! You need to wake up!”

“Huh?” the stallion asked as he blinked dazedly. “D-Diamondeye? Wha's goin' on?”

“Come on, we need to move. I know you're on a lot of drugs right now, but your life depends on it,” the princess said as she started pulling him from the bed. The stallion groaned, but groggily moved with her. With a hoof over each mare to support him, they walked out the door.

The halls were flooded with ponies, doctors and nurses struggling to get every patient out as the building continued its sluggish descent. They ran uphill towards the opposite end of the building, towards the non-sinking portion.

“Walkers first!” an aid at the stairs kept yelling as he held onto the door frame and tried to keep a patient in a wheelchair from rolling down the building. The three quickly made their way down the steps, each one eliciting a pained moan from the stallion.

“We're almost out, just hang on,” Rarity whispered as they made it to the first floor. A few quick steps and they were outside, back on level ground. The unicorn turned and gasped.

The building was now turned at a heavy slant, with the exit they left through above ground, but the rest slowly sinking under. Earth benders had taken point, doing their best to hold the building up, but it was a slow evacuation. Springs of water were forming around the building, hastening the descent as well as forcing the earth benders to keep their distance.

They quickly moved away, giving the rescuers room to move. “What's going on?” Rarity asked her aunt.

“It must be an attack.” The mare frowned. “Perhaps they have-”

“AHHHHHHH! HELP MEEEE!” a mare screamed as she flailed her hooves wildly. A spring had opened under her hooves, the dark blue water enveloping her. Unfortunately, it refused to let her go. Inch by inch the earth bender was being dragged under, her entire body coated in the dangerous liquid. Other ponies galloped to help her, grabbing her hooves and trying to pull her free. The magical water quickly moved out to envelop them as well, sucking more and more into its folds.

Rarity stared for a few moments before looking to Blueblood and Celestia. “Run!” she said quickly before she charged towards the floundering ponies. Her horn lit up when she came closer and thrust out a hoof. The water parted under her bending magic, peeling back from the ponies like a thick gel.

The captured ponies collapsed on the grass, stumbling away from the death trap. A grin formed on her face as no pony seemed to notice, the rescuers too focused on stopping the sinking.

“She's a water bender!” a pony suddenly yelled out. “Get her!”

Not waiting to see who reacted to the yell, the princess turned and ran in the direction she'd sent Celestia and Blueblood.

“Yes. Truly this is just a normal malfunction with the system, no?” Photo said as she glanced towards Sapphire. “Look! Look at what your lax security measures have caused! Such destruction! Such anarchy! Such... such unfabulousness!” the earth pony yelled as she shook her head.

Dozens of homes were sinking into the ground as dark pools of vicious water spread around them. From the top of the palace the damage across the inner city could be seen as seemingly random spots began sinking into the earth.

“This... it's... I...” Sapphire cringed, grinding her hoof into the ground. “I'll deal with this immediately. I'll-”

“Avatar, would you go with her?” Fancy asked.

The alicorn nodded. “I'd be happy-”

“What? But your highness!” Sapphire yelled, looking towards the destruction. “I can handle this, I-”

“The avatar has far more experience dealing with the Water Nation's tricks than any of us do. You'll bring her and her friends. That's final. Do you understand?”

The mare growled, but slowly nodded. “As you wish. Come, avatar.” She turned and stormed away.

“Commander,” an earth pony yelled while running towards the galloping group in the streets.

“Run and report, soldier!” Sapphire ordered.

“A water bender was seen at one of the sink points, a white unicorn with a short mane and tail! Unfortunately, she escaped before anypony could detain her. Two more sink points have sprouted up in the last ten minutes. We can't deal with them fast enough.”

“How many casualties?”

“None reported. Our examination squads are MIA however. Three units have been prepped to go down at the inner wall, all others are dealing with this crisis.”

“Good. Go see what you can do here,” the commander yelled as they galloped through the city. Finally they came to a stop, short of the large inner wall. Three groups of eight earth ponies standing at alert. “Okay, everypony! The Water Nation is up to no good, we're going to make sure they fail. We'll be going down as four units, I'll command the fourth unit and be taking the avatar and her friends. Any questions?” She waited a half second before yelling again. “Good! Okay ponies, we're going down! Sweep through the tunnels and regroup at the base hub! Go go go!” She tapped her hooves to the ground.

The ground opened up around the four groups before dirt shot up. Darkness enveloped them on all sides as they sunk faster and faster into the bowels of the world. Then, there was light.

Green, glowing crystals shined from the walls of the large dirt tunnel they stood in, allowing them to see the rocky path. Rainbow looked around nervously, chewing on her lower lip as she kept glancing up at the rocks above. “Well, it looks all clear here we should go now!” the pegasus squeaked out.

“We got a lot more tah check out before we're done here,” Applejack said with a snicker. “Come on, let's git. There are eight ponies up ahead.”

Sapphire stared as the cowpony for a few moments. “Wait, you can feel them too?”

“Eeyup.”

“Maybe you aren't as useless as I initially thought,” the commander said as she took the lead. Applejack glared at her back as they walked through the open tunnels.

“W-who made these? Are you sure they're safe?” Rainbow asked as she stuck close to Twilight.

“We did, and of course they're safe. I had some of the greatest earth benders in my units craft these tunnels. Nothing short of an earth bender could hope to take them down,” Sapphire said with a smirk. “I only let the best do the important tasks. Now shush.”

The group walked out from the tunnels, moments before letting out gasps of awe. A large cavern stood before them, twisting and turning under the city. A great underground river entered from the opposite end and exited into another tunnel close to the one they came through. Thick metal pipes, covered in ice, came down from the roofs and stabbed into the coursing river.

Standing by the pipe, was Sweetie, Flowerbloom, Scootaloo, three unicorns and two earth ponies wearing their armor. “About time,” the princess said with a chuckle. “I was starting to wonder if any of you ponies were coming to try and stop us.”

“Cease your actions immediately!” Sapphire yelled as she stormed forward. “I am Sapphire Shores, commander of the Earth Kingdom's military. You will surrender, or suffer the consequences.”

A wide grin formed on Sweetie's face. “The commander? Oh, in that case you are right,” she said as she stepped forward, her head lowered. “Truly, there is no way we can defeat you. We nobly surrender.”

“What?” Twilight said, her eyes going wide. “You give up that- eek!” She jumped back as the water from the river shot up, forming a wall of ice between Sapphire and the rest of the group. “Sapphire! Look out!” the alicorn screamed as flames burst from her horn. Rainbow took to the air, flying over the wall. As she passed it, the dirt above suddenly lashed out, sucking her up as she let out a scream.

Flowerbloom sent out three daggers, the blades narrowly missing the commander as she jumped to the right. When she stepped closer to the water, it shot out to grab her. The earth bender tapped her hoof. A wall of rock shot up, but almost instantly it exploded into a cloud of dust. Without her shield, the water surged forth and wrapped around her. It quickly pulled Sapphire into the river, sending her spiraling downstream into the tunnel.

“Sapphire!” Twilight screamed as she raced towards the water's edge, but was grabbed from behind by Applejack.

“If yah go into that water, we won't be able tah get you out!” the earth pony snapped. “We need ta take care of the rest of them, they're jus' gonna try tah split us up!” She stomped a hoof down as Rainbow was spit from the roof. “Come on, we needta all fight 'em.”

Sweetie smirked. “One down, five to go,” the water bender giggled as the water flowed up around her horn. “I hope you're ready for this.” The unicorns copied her gesture as the water circled them a moment. Then, shards of ice shot from the liquid, hurtling towards the avatar's group.

“Yah!” Rainbow yelled as she flapped her wings, sending a gust of wind through the projectiles and scattering them.

“Come on, let's go!” Twilight yelled while she charged forward. A ball of flame formed at the tip of her horn before shooting forward. The Water Nation ponies jumped away as it exploded, shattering the ice from the pipe and enveloping one of the unicorns who fell, screaming, into the river.

“This won't work as well as I hoped. Pull back!” Sweetie yelled as she shoved a hoof forward. The water turned to a thick mist, enveloping the room as the ponies made their hasty retreat.

It took Twilight and Rainbow a moment to clear it, but their enemies were gone. “Dang it!” The pegasus growled. “Those cowards!” She darted forward. A wall of stone shot up to block her, forcing her to a screeching halt.

“Hold on there, sugarcube,” Applejack said with a shake of her head. “They're tryin' tah separate us. We need tah be extra careful, or we're done. No runnin' off on your own.”

“Ughhhh, but it's soooo boring!”

“Don't yah worry. Ah can still feel 'em. They're movin' fast, but they aren't outta my range yet. We need tah go, but together.”

Twilight nodded. “Applejack is right. If we let ourselves be separated, we're doomed. We'll have to trust Sapphire to take care of herself. For now, our biggest concern is eliminating these threats. Capture who we can, force the other to retreat.”

“Right!” the ponies yelled in unison, nodding their heads. Even Fluttershy put on her most determined face. With confident hooves, the five galloped towards the next tunnel.

Chapter 27: Underground Encounters

“How's your chest?” Rarity asked while she watched the resting Blueblood. The three had managed to make it back to their shop and were now waiting for the panic to cease. The stallion remained tightly bound in bandages, though fortunately they remained clean and free of blood.

“Good,” he said with a light wheeze. “Are you sure we'll be safe here? What if they come looking for you?”

“I'm sure it'll be fine,” Rarity said before she turned to look out the window. Below in the streets, ponies ran back and forth in panic, trying to avoid any sinkholes. Across the street she could see the remains of a bakery, the only part of it still above ground was its giant novelty loaf of bread, though even that was half under the cursed water. “Everypony was so busy, I doubt they had more than a second to notice me. I was just another white unicorn, this city has dozens.”

Celestia walked in, carrying a small basket of pastries. “I've brought some grass and berry cakes. I hope you two aren't planning to starve yourselves.”

Rarity's stomach growled at the mention of food, forcing her cheeks to light up. “I, ahhh, I could eat. Is everything well below?”

“No guards have appeared, if that's what you mean. However, I'm afraid if we do come under suspicion, Blueblood is our best bet. As a fire bender.” Her gaze shifted to the stallion. “However, considering your current state, we wouldn't wish to--”

“As far as I'm concerned, you two are just normal unicorns. Not a bending bone in you,” Blueblood said before he slowly sat up, cringing at the pain shooting through his chest. “I could really use a few of those cakes.”

“Here,” Celestia said before she sat down and began spreading them out. “Once this attack has finished, we'll likely suffer a visit from the guards. Fortunately, all paperwork involving us at the hospital was likely destroyed in that sinking. With all the chaos, hopefully they'll believe it was an attacking soldier and not a respectable worker at this tea shop.”

“Hopefully,” Rarity said with a sigh as she held one of the cakes in her hooves. “We can always run if they come for us. We're getting pretty good at that.” She took a bite of her cake, sighing in contentment at the warm dessert.

“Hold on yah varmints!” Applejack yelled while she galloped down one of the tunnels, chasing a pack of the Water Nation's soldiers. Her friends were keeping up as best they could, though even Rainbow was having slight trouble keeping up while grounded. “Yah!” she yelled before stomping her hoofs down, a rock falling down and blocking the infantry off.

With their exit suddenly blockaded, the ponies turned and readied themselves to fight. Rainbow jumped into the air and flew at them in the narrow confines, her wings flapping rapidly as she sped past the group and crashed into the startled soldiers. They scattered like bowling pins, landing hard as the others collapsed on them with a fervor. Within seconds, the Water Nation ponies were hogtied on the ground.

“Wow, these guys are really easy to take down,” the pegasus said with a chuckle. “I'd almost think they want to get captured. You know, if I wasn't so awesome and able to take on a dozen by myself.”

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Your lil princess friend ain't among them. None of them are earth benders, either. Just a few runna the mill Water Nation earth ponies with 'em.”

“They must of only been able to recruit a few,” Twilight said before she looked over their prisoners. “Still, I don't feel safe knowing there are any down here. We haven't found the sources of these sink holes either. We still have a lot of work to do.”

“Well, ah can feel a bunch more ahead. Whole herd a them. We'd best... Fluttershy, gosh darn it. Will yah stop helpin' them?”

“I'm just making sure nopony was hurt too much, sorry,” the pegasus said with a hung head. She stood over the helpless soldiers, tending to any bruises or bleeding wounds.

“Fine, yah done?” After a nod from Fluttershy, Applejack stomped her hoof and a dome of rock encased the captured ponies. “That oughta hold 'em until we get back. Come on!” The ponies nodded and galloped off to the end of the tunnel. They skidded to a stop as their mouths fell open.

Eight water benders stood in front of another of the underground rivers. They chanted softly as hundreds of gallons of water was lifted into the air. It turned dark blue as it flowed towards the roof, moving as slow as syrup. It branched off into multiple thick tubes of cursed liquid, spreading out and penetrating the dirt above.

“Look at that... how many homes do you think they've destroyed already?” Twilight asked as she held a hoof over her mouth.

“From the looks of it? Quite a few. That's a lot of water they're sending up there. Probably more than one of these groups, too,” Rainbow said as she scanned the roof. “I'm going in.”

“Wait!” Applejack snapped before grabbing the charging mare. “We don't even know what that water there will do. That's some dark magic they're using, and ah for one don't wanna get it all over mahself.”

“Applejack has a point,” Twilight said with a frown as she stepped forward. “Rainbow, you go into the air and try to cut some of the tendrils off with your air bending. I'll use my fire bending to destroy some of the others. Applejack, I'll need you to go in with Pinkie to try to take the benders out while we have them distracted. Fluttershy, stay back. There's no telling what will happen if that stuff gets on us. We might need your healing. Everypony ready?”

Confident and ready with a plan, the ponies nodded and charged. Sadly, like many of their plans, it only lasted a few seconds. Rainbow and Twilight took to the air and charged at the liquid, the latter's horn glowing with red flame. Fire and wind tore through the air at the tendrils. Before the attacks could hit, the waters pulled back, avoiding the assaults and then whipping right at them. The two fliers eeked and tried to twist around to avoid them, but Twilight was too slow to avoid it and the end of Rainbow's tail was caught. Slowly it spread up the pegasus's tail and latched onto her body. Within moments, both were dragged into the syrup like water, flailing their hooves as they tried to break free.

“Looks like we caught the avatar, her highness will pay us--” the unicorn was cut off from a swift buck to the back of the head. The others let out startled shrieks as the two earth ponies descending on them, tearing into their confused ranks. As the water benders fell, the tainted water began to wiggle and writhe, before finally collapsing and spreading throughout the chamber.

Pinkie and Applejack were buried in the liquid, struggling as best they could against its grasping suffocation. Rainbow tried flapping her wings as fast as she could, but the resistance was too much and she couldn't make the slightest of breezes. Applejack waved her hoof around as dirt and stone slashed through the water, but it instantly reformed itself, refusing to release them.

Twilight shook her head, struggling to free herself. She was unable to make the smallest flame and when she opened her eyes, the enchanted water made them burn. However, the split second allowed her to see her friends, struggling against the liquid.

Fluttershy ran over, her eyes wide as she stared at her drowning friends. She reached out to pull the water away, but the moment she touched it, the water began slide up her hoof. She tried pulling away, but it refused to release her. Inch by inch it pulled and climbed her, allowing her one final scream before she, too, was absorbed.

The five ponies struggled against the binds, their movements getting weaker and slower as the syrupy prison denied them the oxygen they needed. The few water benders remaining moved away from the trap, grinning wide.

Suddenly, a bright light flooded the chamber. The water melted around the ponies, dropping them down to the ground as they gasped and wheezed for air. Twilight floated in the air, her eyes glowing with a brilliant light as her crown formed on her head and the necklaces formed around her friend's necks. The water splashed across the ground, now clear and harmless. Her head whipped around to look at the water benders as they panicked. They fell on their stomachs, hooves over their heads. “We surrender!”

With a small smile, the ground shot up and enveloped the ponies, binding them to the floor. Her work finished, the alicorn lowered to the ground, her crown disappearing as the necklaces did the same. Her eyes returned to normal once again. She toppled to the ground, gasping for air.

“T-that... that s-stuffs a d-doozy...” Applejack said with a wheeze. She was spread out on the ground, chest rising and falling with every rapid breath.

“H-hate... w-water benders s-so much,” Rainbow said as she laid on her side.

“I-I don't w-wanna go on that r-ride again,” Pinkie said with a moan.

“Just... just need a little rest,” Fluttershy said gently, her eyes closed.

“O-okay girls.” Twilight tried to stand, but fell back down on her stomach. “Just... just catch our breath. O-once we do, w-we'll find the rest of these... rest of these benders. We can... we can do it... whew.”

Rarity laid on the edge of Blueblood's bed, nervously watching the door as her aunt walked away. “So... ummm... I'm happy you're feeling better. I... uhhh... about my sister...”

He cringed. “W-what about her?”

“She's really not like this. Normally... well, she wasn't. She used to be the kindest, sweetest, most adorable little filly you'd ever imagined. But now she's...” She struggled to find the right word.

“A monster?”

“No! Well, yes. But this is not who she is. It's Discord's fault. He's corrupting her and... and I intend to free her. I'm sorry for whatever she did to you, but I swear she's a good filly at heart.”

The stallion sighed and lowered his gaze. “I... I guess. I can't really judge her. I've likely done worse. No, I've definitely done worse. Just... that's a lot to thrust on a pony in one day.”

“Yeah. I didn't intend for you to find all that out, well, ever,” Rarity said with a shy smile. “I just kind of panicked when you tried to, ummm, kiss me.”

The stallion blushed as he lowered his head. “I... I see. I guess... yeah. I understand why you'd reject me. I mean, I guess I'm not... yeah.”

“I... I haven't exactly... rejected you. I just kind of panicked. I hadn't, errr, I've never... listen. It's not that I don't like you. It's just that right now I... I have a lot of things I have to do. I've never really thought of... anypony like that. Aside from a little... crush somepony had on me, nopony has thought of me like that either.”

Blueblood smiled. “Oh? I couldn't understand all of that, but I did understand you saying you aren't rejecting me.”

“Well, yes, but that's not quite--”

“Nope, I'm not rejected! That means I'm going to keep on trying.”

“W-what?” Rarity slid off the bed and took a step back. “I told you I'm not ready, I can't right now. Maybe in--”

“Nope. I'm sorry, but there is no way I'm giving up.”

“But--”

“Nope. Not happening. I've never met a mare like you, and I doubt I ever will. I won't give up until I make you mine,” he said with a confident grin, refusing to accept any refusal.

“I... you... it... GAHHHH!” she shook her head and stormed from the room. She trotted downstairs, her eyes narrowed. “I swear, stallions are so infuriating sometimes! You tell them one thing, they decide on another!”

“Mmmm hmmm. Would you like some tea?” Celestia asked before she used her magic to pull out a chair across the table from her. “Sit and talk to me about it.”

“Ughhh! Well, first he decides he's going to keep...” As the princess talked, occasionally rolling her eyes or waving her hooves in frustration, the elder unicorn merely smiled and nodded. She never looked away, watching her niece with great interest.

Applejack slammed her hooves down, encasing more water benders in thick stone prisons. The dark blue water coated the ground, though they managed to avoid it this time. “I think that's the last of 'em.”

“At least, the last of our area,” Twilight mumbled as she rubbed her chin. “Though it worries me that we haven't seen any earth benders since.”

“They probably ran with their tails between their legs once they realized we were here,” Rainbow said with a chuckle. “I know I wouldn't want to mess with me.”

“I hope so,” Twilight said as she looked down at the small prison. “You're sure you haven't felt any ponies going around?”

“Eeyup. If that lot had tried goin' around us, I'da felt it,” Applejack said with a smirk. “The lotta them probably high tailed it out the way they came, left their water benders tah keep causing problems.” The smile turned to a frown. “Though, that ain't exactly a good thing.”

“Why?” Rainbow asked with a smirk. “That just means a bunch of water benders we don't have to beat up later.”

“Applejack's right,” the alicorn said with a shake of her head. “What it means is that they think they have so many water benders they can afford to lose some of them here to us. Judging by the numbers we saw before, that's true. The damage they've done to the city, not to mention the pollution they've done to the water, is a lot more damaging to us than the loss of water benders is to them.”

“Well, I guess if you wanna look at it like that,” the pegasus mumbled. “Come on, lets keep going.”

“Ah think we're almost to the hub. Ah can feel a buncha earth ponies comin' up,” Applejack said before motioning with her head.

“So there are ponies on the hub?” Pinkie asked with a grin.

“Ah guess yah could say that. A lot of tunnels too. Ah don't feel any more a them unicorns.”

The five stepped out from the final tunnel and entered a massive chamber. A long pillar of rock stood in the center, surrounded by a number of large tunnels as well as small rivers flowing in and out through smaller, lower tunnels. The remaining three groups of earth benders were standing there, waiting at attention. As the avatar's group came closer, the earth ponies stared, though soon they looked confused. “Where's Commander Sapphire?”

Twilight shuffled her hooves as her gaze shifted downwards. “She was... there was an attack. We were attacked by earth benders and the commander of the Water Nations army. In the scuffle, she fell into the river tunnels and we were unable to retrieve her. We're hopeful she'll catch up with us.”

The ponies watched her for a few moments. Eyes narrowed to slits, jaws were set. Anger seemed to billow over them at the loss of their commander. “You just left her behind?”

“We couldn't go after her in the river,” the alicorn said before she motioned back. “We had to stop the water benders or they might have gone after her. She's a powerful earth bender, we trust her to return to us. For now though, we've captured a number of water benders and other soldiers. We'll need to take them to the prisons. How did your groups fair?”

“The city is safe, for now,” one of the soldiers said as she stepped forward. “We'll need to make some repairs to the filtration system, but it should be finished before we get desperate. We'll have to run patrols through here to ensure the water benders can no longer return.”

Twilight nodded before she glanced back. “We'd best return and report all that has happened. We have a lot of prisoners to take back as well. Who will return with us to the surface?”

A few hooves were raised as ponies stepped forward. The ground began to rumble and then raise towards the world above.

“--They then used the water to puncture through the soil and begin sinking homes from below,” Twilight said as she stood in the throne room, staring up at the emperor. “Without water benders, I don't think there is any way to dispel it. I was unable to even fight it without entering the avatar state, and the rest of us were hopeless in its grasp.”

“It's true,” and earth pony said from behind her. “Some of ours were captured in it. It was only after some... colorful threats, we were able to make the water bender free our comrades.”

“This is... disheartening,” Fancy said with a shake of his head. “To imagine. Earth benders, betraying their country to help the Water Nation. It is truly a sad day. On top of all that, to lose Sapphire...”

“It pains me to say this but,” Photo said with an upturned nose. “For all her... lack of style and finesse, Sapphire was a loyal and powerful soldier. She will be missed.”

“I never thought I'd live to hear the day YOU'D say that, you flea ridden pack mule,” Sapphire said as she limped into the throne room. She was soaking wet with pieces of mud dangling from her mane, but she was alive.

“Sapphire, you're okay!” Fancy yelled and jumped to his hooves.

“Of course, your highness. It would take a lot more than a simple river to take me out,” the mare smiled and stomped her hoof. “I'd never allow myself to disappear in such an awful and tacky manner. I'd leave such things to Photo.”

Photo narrowed her eyes. “Why you--”

“What happened? Where were you?” Twilight asked before galloping to the earth bender. “We feared the worst when you didn't arrive.”

Sapphire smirked as she stood as tall as she could and flashed a dazzling smile. “I was tumbling through that filthy water just trying to get my bearings. When I finally managed to shoot myself out I was plum exhausted, but I'd never let that stop me. Turns out the river took me right out of Fillydelphia. It wasn't too easy getting back. Even with my spectacular skills and talents, getting around that army out there wasn't easy. I considered going under them, but with those earth benders who knows what would come dropping on my head. Sorry my delays had all of you worried. But you really should have known it would take more than that to take me down.”

“Wonderful! Simply wonderful!” Fancy said with a hearty laugh as he sat up from his throne and clapped his hooves. “Please, feel free to rest as long as you need. However, once you're ready I'll need you back to monitoring the filtration system. I trust you'll be up to the task?”

“Of course. I think after a quick shower and a short nap I'll feel simply seeeeeensational! I'll get straight to work as soon as I'm able. Could somepony give me a briefing on everything I missed?”

“Wonderful, wonderful,” the emperor said before glancing to one of the soldiers. “Go with the commander, inform her of all she needs.”

“Of course!” the pony said before he galloped after her. The door closed behind them as the two trotted down the halls through the palace. “We managed to clear out all the water benders and other soldiers the Water Nation sent.”

“Sensational. So all the sink holes throughout the city have stopped?”

“Of course.”

“The water benders, where are they now?”

“They're in the prison with the others we've captured. They won't be a threat for a long while.”

“Good, good.” A grin flashed across her lips as she opened the door to her room. Her eyes flashed purple for a moment as she stepped inside. “Come in. Is there anything else I need to know about?” She waved her hoof and the door closed behind them.

“The majority of our patrols are stationed underground. The Water Nation will have no way of coming through them again.”

“Oh, that's wonderful news,” Sapphire said as she moved to the back of her room.

“Yes, the same trick won't work twice.”

“Oh, no. Not because of that.”

“Ma'am?”

“Because, dear friend.” She reached back and took his hoof, smiling softly to him. “Because the emperor has already fallen for it.”

The stallion looked confused, before letting out a gasp of pain as his body locked up and he crumbled. Scootaloo stood over the pony and glanced towards the bathroom. “He's down.”

“Well done, Sapphire,” Sweetie said as she stepped out from the bathroom. “Is everything going as planned?”

“Yes, your highness,” Sapphire said with a bow. “I trust our agreement still stands?”

“Of course.” Both mare's eyes flashed purple for a moment. “Now that so many of my troops are within the city, it's time. The invasion of Fillydelphia will soon be complete!”

Chapter 28: Prodigal Sister

Suri growled as she was roughly lead through the dungeon of Fillydelphia. She was surrounded by half a dozen earth pony guards. If she so much as tried to bend a pebble she knew she'd find herself buried in seconds. It didn't curb her anger in the slightest. “You'll all pay for this. There's a water bender in our city and you dare to arrest me, ME!”

“Silence prisoner,” the pony ahead of her said. She was led into a large wooden room, devoid of any earth to bend. In the center of it sat a pony, at a desk, she recognized instantly. Sapphire Shores, the commander of Fillydelphia's military.

Suri shoved past the guards, darting towards the mare. “Commander!”

Sapphire raised a hoof, stopping the guards from lunging at the prisoner. “Leave us. We are not to be disturbed. Lock the door.” The guards quickly nodded, closing the door before it let out an audible click. “Sit.”

Suri did so. “Commander, you must listen to me. There is a water bender here, in this city.”

“So I heard. Tell me more about her.”

“She's not just a water bender, she claimed to be a princess. Sister to the commander attacking our city.”

“What does she look like?” a voice said from behind the mare. Suri turned to see a cloaked figure against the wall. She couldn't remember seeing the pony before.

“Who are--”

“Answer,” Sapphire said before stomping a hoof down. “Now.”

Suri turned back to the commander. “She... she had a white coat and a short purple mane. A tad curly. The fire bender, Blueblood, is protecting her.”

The cloaked figure burst into laughter. “Blueblood as well?” As the earth pony turned, she gazed into the eyes of the figure, the mare's hood down. Sweetie smiled as her eyes glowed purple. “So, my sister is here. Now, little... Suri was it? You're going to bring her to me.”

The earth pony opened her mouth to scream, but no sound came out. The purple eyes stared into her. Sweetie grinned as her magic poked and prodded through the mare's mind. She brushed aside thoughts and ideas like dust as she searched for the darkness within the mare's heart. To her glee, it was found quickly. Vanity. Pride. It throbbed within the earth pony, beating like a second heart. “I see what you want. You want recognition. To be the best designer in all the land. For everypony to kneel before you in reverence of your name? You wish for glory. I can give it to you.”

Suri slowly nodded.

“Swear allegiance to me and all of the nations will know of you. Just as they will Commander Sapphire. Your talents will no longer be wasted here.”

The earth pony slowly grinned as the magic enveloped the beating mass within, strengthening it. “I... I swear.” Her eyes glowed purple for a moment.

“Good. Sapphire, take this mare and capture my sister. If our aunt is there, bring her as well.”

The commander got to her hooves. “As you wish. And the fire bender?”

“I no longer have a need for him. Do whatever is needed,” Sweetie lifted the hood over her head again and headed to the corner of the room. Soon, the door was opened and the two left. However, as Sapphire walked away, she and the unicorn's eyes met. Purple flashed in both their eyes before the earth pony nodded.

“Of course,” the commander said before walking out. Once she was gone, one of the guards popped his head inside the room, but it was empty. He failed to notice the roof tile slide back into place above.

“Wow,” Twilight said in awe as she watched the cursed water slowly turn to its clear, natural form. Four unicorns stood over one of the pits, slowly dispelling the liquid until it became natural yet again. “How do they do it? They can't bend.”

“It's not a bending act,” Vinyl said. “That magic on the water is dark magic, but it is magic. A water bender can dispel it easier, but any unicorn with the proper training could dispel it. I'm surprised you weren't able to.”

The alicorn blushed and shuffled her hooves. “I... I honestly never thought to try. I knew it took bending to create, so I assumed it would take bending to reverse.”

“You were a unicorn before you became an alicorn, correct?” Vinyl asked. “You should try learning some magic. I know with all your bending talents you probably have to spend a lot of time studying them, but it can't hurt to learn how normal magic works. It could save your life one day.”

“Maybe.” Twilight sighed as she watched a number of earth benders close up the holes the water had made. “Is this what you wanted to show me? No water bending?”

The unicorn chuckled. “Oh, don't worry. I'll start training you soon enough. Once we fight off this invasion, we'll have lots of time to practice, okay? But there was one thing I wanted to discuss with you. When we were forced to run, it took us ages to find a place we could hide. We eventually came across your biggest fan.” A large grin formed on Vinyl's face. “He wasn't too happy to find us.”

“My biggest fan? Why? What happened?”

“He tried eating us whole when he found out we were water benders. Took Octy ages to get him to calm down and listen to who we were.” The unicorn watched the avatar, waiting for her words to sink in.

Twilight's eyes bulged. “You mean... you can't mean. No, it's impossible. He's... I don't know where he is. Do you mean the Great Dragon? You met him?”

“Yep! Bit of a hot head, but we managed to calm him down. Once he realized we were on your side, he was... well, still uptight. But a bit less chompy chomp. Even helped us find a place to lie low. Wanted me to give you this.” From her pack she pulled out a letter. “I wanted to give it to you sooner, but I figured you deserved a chance to get some rest. Then the whole sinking city thing. Better late than never, right?”

Twilight rolled her eyes before taking the note. She popped it over and scanned across it. She let out a loud squeak. “It... I can't believe it!” A small leaf hovered into the air. “It's smokewarp root!”

“It looks like a leaf to me...”

“No, not that. It's something us fire benders used to do. See, when you throw it in a fire, the flames will glow green. Then, whatever you throw into it gets transported to the chosen destination. We used to use it to make giant fires or fed it to dragons so they could send letters to each other. Back when I was learning how to fire bend, we had this massive green bonfire in the center of the hall and we would use it to send letters back home to our... to our...” The alicorn trailed off as moisture filled her eyes. “S-sorry...”

Vinyl frowned for a few moments. Then, her glasses flew off her head and onto the avatar's. “I didn't see anything. So, what's it all mean to us non-fire benders?”

“It means I can send a message to the dragon. I know exactly what I'm going to tell him, too.” Twilight started trotting off, forcing Vinyl to gallop after her.

“What?”

“I've found the fire benders and your water benders. I think it's time both are gathered together, here. With their added help, we should be able to push off these water benders easily.”

“I'm not sure bringing water benders here is the best idea.”

“It is, trust me. Besides, we need them. If they use more of that cursed water, we'll need capable benders to remove it quickly. It'll also make fixing the water purificating system faster. Don't worry, I'll have no problem getting the emperor to agree.”

Celestia groaned as she got up from her bed. She glanced outside, the full moon's light casting across the street. “Who would be here at this hour?” The mare slowly climbed down the long, evil stairs that took her further and further from her warm bed. She stepped out into the lobby and froze. Through the glass she saw Suri's smug face, as well as over a dozen earth ponies in armor. The unicorn turned and galloped back the way she came.

“Diamondeye, Blueblood, we need to go.” She tore into their respective rooms, tearing blankets away. The sound of shattering glass echoed up the hall, making the other two groggy ponies stand up.

“W-what's going on?” Rarity asked with a stifled yawn.

“Things are worse than we initially though. We need to go, now!” Celestia tore open her niece's window, gazing out into the back yard. It was grassy and fenced in, but the wall was short.

Blueblood crawled from his bed and looked down the stairs. For the moment, the earth ponies were in such a rush to get up, they were pushing and tumbling over each other to get up the narrow rises. It wouldn't last long. “Get her out first, I'll follow!” the stallion yelled as flames formed on his horn. It took a moment for the earth ponies to notice, but when they did they dove from the stairs, landing out of the way as flames burst forth. With them sufficiently delayed, Blueblood galloped into Rarity's room.

“She's out,” Celestia said as she motioned to the window. “You're next, come on.”

He gulped and darted to the window, leaning out the side slightly. With a deep breath, and a guiding hoof from the elder mare, he leaped down. He hit the ground hard, eliciting a pained moan. His bandages turned red, but he slowly got to his hooves. “Come on, Jademane, we--”

Rocks suddenly raced up behind them, covering the back end of the building as well as the window. “Auntie!” Rarity screamed before she started to run at the mass of stone.

Blueblood grabbed her in his magic, holding her back. “No! We need to go, she can take care of herself, they want you! Your mother will be fine!”

“I can't leave her! She's my, you don't understand, she--”

“She'd tell you to run!” the stallion yelled. She stared at him for a few moments before glancing back to the wall of rock. With a nod, she turned and galloped. They leaped over the small fence in the backyard and stopped. Eight earth ponies surrounded them. “Get behind me.” Blueblood stepped forward and swirled his horn in a small circle as lightning crackled from the tip. “Leave us alone, she's done nothing wrong.”

One of the earth benders stepped forward. “Surrender. We know who you are, princess Rarity. Fire bender, we have no fight with you, stay out of the way.” The pony raised a hoof.

“She's not a princess of anything. Leave her alone, I won't let Suri near her!” Lightning arched off his horn towards the earth pony. The earth bender lowered his hoof as a wall of dirt flowed up in front of him. It cracked from the blast. “How-- guhhh!” Spikes of rock shot forward and sent Blueblood sailing through the air, toppling head over hoof before slamming into the fence. His head sagged to the side as the pony fell limp.

“Blueblood!” Rarity yelled before galloping toward him, but skidded to a stop as a wall of rock formed in front of her.

“You're coming with us. Rarity, surrender.” The earth pony raised a hoof towards her.

“You... you... earth benders!” Her body shook as she turned to them, tears in her eyes. Her horn began to glow and two of the earth ponies lifted their hooves. They let out started shrieks as their bodies began twisting around them, their back hooves lashing out at their nearby comrades.

“What are you doing? AHHH!” Her eyes fell on the talking one next, her horn glowing a brilliant blue as the stallion's body began fighting on its own, attacking his comrades as they struggled to defend themselves, confusion spreading through their ranks. One by one they fought, bucking and kicking until all eight laid on the ground in painful heaps. With them defeated, she turned to the fallen unicorn and ran.

“B-Blueblood, are you okay?” she asked as she lightly shook the stallion.

“U-ugh...” He looked up at her, a smile on his lips. “So... your... name is Rarity?”

“Y-yes,” she said as she looked over his bleeding chest. “Hold on, I'll see if I can fix these.”

Blueblood reached up and took her hooves before she could touch him.“It's a beautiful name. I'm sorry I didn't learn it sooner.”

“Fine, it's beautiful. Just hold still.”

“Go,” the stallion whispered. “Get... get out of here. More of them are coming. Don't worry, I'll be fine.”

“But--”

“I promise. Just go!” he said before shoving her hooves away. She watched him for a moment, before turning and galloping away.

The stallion looked in the opposite direction. Earth ponies turned the corner. Flames formed on the tip of his horn as he slowly sat up, the bandages soaked through.

Twilight stared into the green flames, the glow flickering ominously. Her friends sat around the fire, watching it with wide eyed wonder as the long forgotten magic sparked and popped. The alicorn held a thick envelope in her hooves, her breathing slow but ragged. “Is this really the right thing to do?”

Applejack lowered her hat to her chest. “Ah think yah know the answer tah that. Yah wouldn't a made it if it wasn't the right thing tah do.”

“I think you should,” Fluttershy said barely above a whisper. “He'd want to know what happened to Spike and everything else.”

“Besides, he wasn't a big fan of the little guy anyway,” Rainbow said with a shrug. “I'm sure he'll get over it fast once he realizes we're all on the case. No way the little pipsqueak is gone for good.”

“I guess,” the alicorn sighed again. “Is bringing him here really the right thing to do? I'll be bringing everypony to the Water Nation.”

“Oh, don't be such a worry goosy! I'm sure he'll arrive just at the perfect time, right when we need him most.” Pinkie patted the avatar on the back with a happy giggle. “Besides, no matter what happens, we're always here to have your back!”

Twilight grinned and nodded. “Thank you. You're right, I... I know everything will work out in the end. As long as we're all together.” She tossed the letter forward. It burned instantly before green sparkles flew off through the air and out the window. “Now, I think I'm going to get ready for some sleep. We should--”

The door opened suddenly, eliciting gasps from the ponies. Photo stood in the portal, a smile on her face. “Applejack, could you come here?”

“Huh? What's yah need?” the mare asked before she hopped to her hooves and trotted to the mare.

“I have a note for you. One of the guards delivered it a moment ago.”

“Huh?” The cowpony took the letter and opened it. She gasped. “Yah all aren't gonna believe this!”

“What is it?” Twilight asked before the other four got to their hooves and trotted forward.

“It's mah big brother! He's better an' managed tah get one a our shipments through them soldiers outside. Ah always knew he wouldn't let any ah our shipments go to waste even if a hydra gone and blocked his way. Seems he's in town an' hopin' tah see me!”

“Sounds a bit suspicious,” Rainbow asked with a wary glare. “Who delivered this note?”

“I was told a large, red stallion. He didn't say much, just dropped this off and left.”

“That's mah big brother! Ah'm sorry everypony, but ah gotta go chat with him. Yah all be okay for the night without meh?”

“Go on, have fun. It's about time we all went to sleep anyway,” Twilight said with a smile. “Stay out as long as you need, we'll find you if there's trouble.”

“Okay! See yah all later!” Applejack galloped off, a wide grin on her face. Photo watched her leave, before turning to go as well.

“Thanks for delivering this, Photo!” Twilight called out. “It really, hee hee, brings out ze magic in her!” The earth pony merely shrugged as she trotted away. The alicorn stared for a few moments, before shaking her head.

“Something wrong?” Rainbow asked.

“No. Probably just my imagination. It's late though, I'm going to go get some sleep. I'll see you all in the morning.”

Rarity huddled in the darkness, tears flowing down her face as everypony she had failed flashed in her mind. Death after death, their empty eyes played through her mind like a grim dance, though she tried desperately to shut them out. Even her aunt was likely gone now. All because of her confession.

Tears flowed down her cheeks, burning as they went. She held her head against the ground, struggling desperately to calm the raging sadness within her. She had only felt something like this once before, when she had first been banished. Without her aunt to comfort her, it was all the worse.

“Sister,” Sweetie said as she enveloped the older mare in her hooves. “Why do you cry so?”

“Because, e-everypony is--” She froze and looked up at the younger unicorn hugging her. Confusion clouded her face before she leaped back, pulling free. “Sweetie Belle! What are you doing here? How? When? It's dangerous, you must--” A hoof was placed to her mouth, silencing her.

“Rarity, dear elder sister. Isn't it obvious? It's time for Fillydelphia to fall. Come, join me. You will share in my triumph. We can return to the Water Nation as heroes.”

The elder unicorn stepped forward, reaching a hoof to her sister. She then pulled away. “No. Sweetie, I... I still need to save you. I can't... I can't give up.”

“Save me? Save me from what? I'm here to save you!”

“I know what you did!” Rarity's hooves trembled. “I saw... I saw Shadowhoof.”

“Who?”

“The stallion. One of our soldiers. I saw how you had his horn ripped from his head, hung from a tree to die. I saw how you...” She choked on the words. “I... I know what you did.”

Sweetie's eyes went wide, then she lowered her head and let out a soft sob. “I... I'm so sorry. Dear... dear sister. I know of who you speak. I tried. I tried to protect him, honest! I ordered them to stop, but their passion was too intense. They rose up against me, p-pushed me aside. I... I couldn't do anything to stop them. I... I was s-so afraid they'd do the same to me if... if I released him.”

Rarity froze, the words cutting through her like a razor. “You... you didn't do it? But... but the fire benders. You were going to do the same to them. Rip out their horns and... and...”

“No! Of course not! Oh dear sister, i-is that why you fought against me? Never!” The young mare shook her head. “I only wished to capture them. I had no intentions of harming them. I... I could never do such a thing. I just... wanted to capture them for mother. I... I hoped if I imprisoned them... that maybe mother... would let you return. They would have been kept under watch, but I could never rip ones horn away. How... how could you even think such a thing?”

Rarity looked to her sister, the young unicorn's eyes wet and hurt. With a gentle cry of distress she charged forward and enveloped her little sister in a tight hug. “Oh Sweetie. I'm so, so, so sorry. I thought... I just thought...” She struggled to push away the pain and torment she felt, letting her sister fill it.

“I know, I understand.” Sweetie's eyes glowed purple. “Tell me, what have these earth benders done to you? Don't worry yourself. In the end, we'll defeat them. Together.”

Applejack knocked on the small home she had been directed to. She held up the note before glancing to the side. “Well, this is the right address. Heh, yah old varmint.” She knocked on the door a few times, but no pony answered. She tried opening it and, to her surprise, it slid open with ease. “Big Mac?” she called before stepping inside. The room was very dark, though in the center she saw a very weak lamp. “Oh Big Mac. Plannin' some kinda surprise party? Ah know you're here, a big red lumix like you is kinda hard tah miss.” She chuckled before trotting to the lamp. The ground cracked from below and then shot up, clamping shut around her.

The earth pony let out a shriek as she fell into the small pit, but quickly started kicking out with her hooves. “Let me out! What are you... huh?” She hit twice more and stopped. She was surrounded on all sides by metal.

Suddenly, a small light came from above, shining through the one small window her prison had. She crawled up and peered through, her eyes going wide in horror. “It's been a while, Applejack,” Flim said as he tapped on the prison.

“I hope you didn't forget us,” Flam said with a twirl of his mustache.

“You two, you two, dirty, no good, rotten, you, you you--”

“Always the one for words, weren't yah, Applejack?” Flim asked with another chuckle. “Make yourself comfortable. We were paid a lot of money by those water benders to bring you to them. You're going to be in this good ol' box a long time.” He tapped the wall, sending a clang echoing through.

“LET ME OUT!” Applejack screamed as she bucked as hard as she could, though the metal refused to bend under her assault.

“Go ahead, keep wearing yourself out. No pony can bend metal,” Flam said before the two brothers started pulling out blankets. “You'll need to cover her well, can't have her causing too much noise. I'll get the wagon.”

Fancy yawned as he trotted through the castle, his tired eyes blinking blearily as he struggled to stop from tottering over. The halls were bare of any ponies, a strange occurrence even for this hour. Usually when he left his room either Sapphire or Photo would find their way to his side before he made it to the first turn, but tonight they were nowhere in sight. He couldn't deny he was enjoying the silence without those two complaining about each other.

He let out a yelp as a cloaked pony darted by, almost knocking him over. “Sorry!” Scootaloo called back.

“I... what? Hey! Hold! Stop!” Despite his yells, the pony didn't stop. He looked left and right, but there were no guards in sight. He considered for a few moments, before charging after her. “I demand you stop immediately!”

The pony led him through the halls before suddenly stopping outside Photo's room. She knocked on the door a few times before it opened and the mare darted inside. Fancy galloped after her. “Photo Finish, stop! Just what is going on here?”

Photo stepped out from the room, smiling to him. “Your highness? What seems to be the problem?”

“Just what is going on here?” the emperor demanded before stomping his hooves. “I haven't seen you since Sapphire spoke to you this evening. I woke up, but the palace seems to be abandoned. Where are all the guards? And who was that pony galloping through the halls?”

“Ah. Yes. Due to the pending attacks from the Water Nation, I sent many of my soldiers to assist Sapphire's. It was what she requested. The galloping mare was... my niece. I'm afraid with all the attacks going on she--” The mare was sent careening backwards after Fancy turned and bucked her.

The stallion ran down the hall, panic filling him as he heard yells and galloping hooves behind. His lungs began to burn when suddenly a familiar pony stood in his path. “Sapphire!”

“Your highness? What's going on? Why are you galloping around the castle at this hour?”

“P-Photo. I don't, I don't know how.” Fancy turned back down the hall, where he heard his pursuer's gallops. “B-but that's not her. I-It's an imposter. Quick, a-alert the soldiers, we're under attack. We--” The stallion turned back in time to see the hoof coming at his face, toppling him over with a crash.

Twilight awoke with a start, powerful gongs echoing through the castle. She slowly sat up to peer out a window, unwilling to crawl out of bed and the view made a nice excuse to stay. The sun was only just beginning to rise, casting its glow across the world. The beautiful sight mesmerized her for a few moments. She lowered her gaze and gasped. From the vantage point she could see the front courtyard of the castle and, more importantly, the fire benders who stood in it with their horns aglow. Guilt swarmed her as she realized she had yet to make a moments time for them. Everything had just happened so fast.

She was torn from her thoughts by another clang of the gong. The alicorn sighed and climbed from bed. With a dissatisfied grunt she made her way to the door, softly yawning as she went. She heard her friends awakening as well, though they seemed much more resistant to getting up than she did. Except Pinkie. That mare hadn't even stirred, for which the avatar was eternally thankful. She doubted she had the energy to deal with somepony who could wake up so refreshed with only a small amount of sleep.

The gong played a third time. She trotted from her room, looking around the halls as she went. They were oddly devoid of life aside from the occasional pony galloping past, until she came to the throne room. Dozens of earth ponies stood across from the throne, which Sapphire and Photo stood in front of. More ponies filed in as the gong, sitting against the far wall, was hit three more times. Finally, Sapphire stepped forward.

“It is with great sadness I am forced to inform all of you that the emperor has gone missing in the night.” A collective gasp filled the air, drowning out the mare's next words. She waited for the ponies to calm down, before speaking again. “There are a number of believed suspects in this assault on the very heart of our kingdom. All will be rounded up and questioned before the day is through.” She stomped a hoof. “Rest assured, soldiers of the glorious Earth Kingdom! This day may be dark, perhaps the darkest day we have ever faced! However, those responsible will be brought to justice. We WILL find our emperor!” The ponies let out a cheer, for which she waited to die down before speaking up again.

“Now, these ponies shall be gathered immediately. Octavia Melody. Vinyl Scratch.--” Twilight just stared in shock, unable to process what was going on as more names were called out. She was eventually torn from her thoughts by one last name. “--Twilight Sparkle.” The alicorn barely had time to gasp as two heavy hoofs grabbed her from behind.

Chapter 29: Unjust Rulings

Twilight stood, her mouth agape. Metal shackles were wrapped around her hooves, and the hooves of her friends. Even Angel was wearing adorable little mini-shackles. Vinyl and Octavia stood behind her, though the former was the only one of them gagged. There were a number of other ponies in the same predicament as her, though she didn't recognize them.

Standing over them on the throne, was Photo. “It pains me to say this, but all of you are suspect of treason in one way or another,” the mare said with a shake of her head.

“You can't blame Twilight, she's the avatar! Why would she want your kingdom?” Rainbow asked and tried to stomp forward, but the manacles slowed her charge enough for the guards to push her back.

“I cannot ignore the fact that your friend disappeared on the very night of our glorious leaders disappearance. Please understand, avatar. This is only temporary. Once we have discovered which pony is responsible, all will be released. In the mean time, you will be placed in our safest, maximum security prisons. Away from the other prisoners.”

“You can't do this!” Rainbow yelled. “We're innocent! Applejack would never have foalnapped the emperor, she-”

“SILENCE!” Photo yelled. “The situation has been explained to all of you. Until further notice you will be tended to. Take them away.” Despite the ponies objections, they were herded from the room. Once they left the mare looked back over the assorted soldiers of the kingdom. “Until his highness has been found, Sapphire and I will be acting in his place. Spread the word, the emperor shall be found.”

The soldiers nodded their heads, but didn't make a sound as somber silence hung in the air. After she waved them away with her hoof, they turned and left the room until only she and Sapphire remained. The latter walked up. “How are you holding up?”

“Not well. I don't know how long I can keep them fooled, some ponies have already become suspicious. Is the real Photo Finish gone?”

“Yes. That wind bag is now out of the city. Sadly, still alive as her highness wishes to keep her in case there is an emergency. Good riddance.”

“This... prison you had me send them. Will it really hold the avatar and all those others?”

“Yes.” A wide grin formed on the commander's face. “The greatest benders in the world can't bend it. Once the dragon arrives, we'll have everypony gathered to destroy, just as Sweetie desires. Then the avatar will be trapped in the little prison she allowed us to put her in, helpless to stop us.”

Photo smiled and looked to the door. “Good. And that other mare, Suri, has she been... you know.”

“Sweetie was quite clear on what she wanted. That earth pony will never pose any threat to the older princess again.”

“Here's hoping that dragon arrives soon. Are you sure I'm doing Photo's accent right?”

Sapphire rolled her eyes. “It was insufferable. So loud and boisterous. Just keep doing what I tell you, and everything will be fine. We'll silence anypony who gets too suspicious. Trust me, I've already dealt with a few. When we finally strike, the kingdom will be in too much disarray to resist.” Her eyes gleamed purple as she chuckled.

“LET! MEH! OUT!” Applejack yelled as she bucked the metal walls of her prison as hard as she could. “Ah'll break the lotta yah!” Despite her threats, none of the Water Nation's soldiers gave her the least bit of attention, instead just trotting by her tent with nary a glance.

“Is useless. The Water Nation is nothing but cowards and fools,” a familiar voice said from beside the captured mare.

The mare stopped for a moment to look out the small window of her prison. “Photo? Is that you? What are you doing here? I can't see you.”

“I, Photo Finish, am in one of these horrible little prisons. So cold, so black, so many right edges, so symmetrical. Is perfect. I hate it. Sound design is so unoriginal--”

“Ah don't got time for that! What are yah doing here? Did you get tricked with a letter too?”

“No. That dreadful Sapphire. She is a traitor. Ze city shall now fall, and there is naught we can do about it.”

“What? Ah thought yah were loyal to the emperor!” She gave another swift kick to the wall, but it refused to bend in the slightest.

“I am loyal, to a fault! I would die for him! But, there is naught we can do. We are... trapped. Helpless. I would take on this entire camp, but from here I, Photo Finish, cannot bend a pebble, let alone save the kingdom.”

“Buck it! We can't just give up! If the city falls now, the...” Applejack paled. “The water benders, the good ones! They been raising the moon! They're on the way. If the city falls, all them fire benders and water benders are done for, no more sun, no more moon. We gotta stop 'em!”

Photo sighed from her prison. “Very well. I, Photo Finish, will help in this undertaking. Perhaps if we work together we can make, ze magic! So, ze plan?”

“Ah haven't figured that out yet. But ah will! Just... need tah think.” She gave the wall another firm kick for good measure.

Rarity laid completely still, a pillow clutched to her chest as she lounged on the soft, feather filled bed that had been prepared for her. Her mind pounded within her skull like a raging storm, tugging at her sanity like a ground line. Each death cut at her, slicing through her like a red hot blade. Worst of all, the one her sister had told her of once she had been brought here.

Blueblood had been finished by the earth benders. Celestia was gone, captured and likely executed. Only two small lines still held her in the turbulent waters of her own mind. Her sister and the avatar. Both were wrapped tightly around her, holding her as the fierce winds pulled and tugged.

Thoughts of what she had almost done threatened to wash her away as well. She could still feel the rage, the red hot anger as she stared at those ponies. She felt the blood flow through them and, only through the strongest of control, did she manage to hurt and not kill them. But, for a moment, she realized she could. She could have made them choke themselves, tear into their own bodies, perform any number of sickening or atrocious, painful things and they would be able to do nothing to stop her.

And she couldn't help feeling sorry she didn't exert this power to its fullest. Angry at her own mercy, her kindness, her weakness. She longed to be as strong as her mother, to feel that power and use it. To not hold back.

Her horn glowed as she glided the bucket back to her head, emptying even more contents of her stomach into it with a pained moan. Tears fell down her face as she laid her head down again, trembling. What she wouldn't have given to have her aunt there once more, to tell her it would be okay. To tell her she was making the right choices. To guide her. To help her. Most important, to hold her.

The door opened and Sweetie trotted into the room with calculated grace. The pungent smell of vomit assaulted the princess' nose, but she didn't care. She watched her elder sister with glee in her heart. She had waited sooooo long for this. Her aunt could no longer stop them, now locked away in some cell she didn't care about. Her dear sister was now alone, cut off from the world and broken. All she had to do was step in, sweep the mess aside and then her sister would be too weak to ever try to leave.

“Oh dear sister, are you crying again?” Sweetie trotted forward, lowering the basket in her magic and wrapping her hooves around Rarity's head. “My dear, dear sister. It's okay. I'm here. Look into my eyes,” she whispered. They glowed purple and she looked through the unicorn.

Sweetie gazed through her elder sister's mind, sweeping aside thoughts and memories as she searched for the darkness. The small piece she could use to break the mare to her will. Unfortunately, she found the taint, loneliness. It was small, helpless, growing but still too weak to envelop and overwhelm the other emotions her sister held. It would take time to grow and empower. Time she hadn't wanted to waste on that Photo mare, but she would enjoy slowly bending her sister with.

The two were back in the room. Rarity shook her head, looking dazed and confused. “What happened?”

“Nothing, dear sister. Just relax,” Sweetie held the other mare to her chest. “Just trust me. Soon, we'll destroy this kingdom. Then it will be just the two of us. Sisters. I'll never leave your side.” She planned to keep that promise. Even if she had to shatter Rarity's mind over and over, Sweetie would have her sister. Forever and ever.

Twilight's legs were released from her shackles before being gently pushed towards the prison. “I'm really sorry, your avatarness,” the earth bender said nervously. “I'm sure once this is all settled, you and the others will be released.”

“It's fine,” the alicorn said with a sad sigh. “I just hope her suspicions die quickly. I don't know how the dragon will react without me there.” The guard nodded before slamming the door shut.

“Hold on, Vinyl. Just a little... there,” Octavia said before the gag fell from the water bender's mouth with a soft clink.

“Why did you all let them lock us up? We didn't do anything! We're being framed, obviously the Water Nation is behind this!” Vinyl yelled as she stomped her hooves.

“Easy,” Rainbow said with a shrug. “It's only a matter of time before they come crawling back, begging us to save them. It's what we always do.”

“I wouldn't be so sure, young flier,” a mare's voice said from across the room. The ponies turned to see Celestia.

“You! What are you doing here?” Rainbow yelled as she flew into the air and readied herself. “Does that mean your little brat is here? I knew they had to be behind this!”

“Easy Rainbow,” Twilight said with a frown. “This mare is... semi-good. Sorta. I... I think. I don't really know what your motives are.”

“The same as everypony else's, of course,” Celestia said before she got to her hooves. “I merely wish for this story to have a happy ending.”

“Yeah, and have Twilight as one of your prisoners!” Rainbow said with a growl.

The elder unicorn merely shook her head and chuckled. “No, dear child. The avatar's capture would do nothing but ruin this story. As much as my niece believes that is what she wants, and needs, I believe there is yet another way for this to play out.”

“W-wait, niece?” The alicorn groaned and face hoofed. “Is Rarity here? Are we going to have to fight her again?”

Celestia's smile slipped. “No. I was captured... separate from her. While I did see our other comrade's... never mind. My niece is still out there, whether captured or still running I cannot say. Tell me, what leads to you three being locked away in these prisons like criminals? I never imagined the Earth Kingdom would turn on you.”

“The emperor, Fancy Pants, has disappeared. We're prime suspects since... well, Applejack disappeared last night.” Twilight turned and walked to the door, gently reaching out to touch it. “It worries me that she hasn't come back yet. I couldn't imagine she'd have stayed away for long once the emperor's disappearance was announced.”

“Your friend could be in grave danger,” Celestia said as she looked to the door. “You are seen as a guiding light to many. Locking you away would not be a decision to make lightly, but now you are trapped in a prison you cannot escape. I sense Sweetie's involvement in this.”

“Really? Why? How could she have anything to do with this?” the alicorn asked before giving the door another tap.

“I do not know. Your friends disappearance, your imprisonment and the imprisonment of... Vinyl Scratch, is that you?” Celestia turned and gawked at the unicorn.

“Heh heh, yeah. Long time no see,” Vinyl said with a nervous wave. She lowered her head and shuffled her hooves a little.

“By the stars, I don't believe it. Vinyl, are... you being shy?” Octavia asked, her mouth falling open.

“Well, yeah, she's one of my teachers and a grand--”

“Vinyl!” Celestia interrupted with a glare.

“Oh, right, well, ummm, she's good! Not at all like her elder sister. Trust me, she's cool.” Vinyl gently swayed her hoof to the right. “Way cool.”

“Just what are you hiding?” Twilight asked.

“Avatar, trust me. There are still things you are better off not knowing of.” Celestia laid down on her stomach and closed her eyes. “You have more than enough on your plate as it is.”

“But--”

“Do not be in such a rush. Calm yourself. Now, I believe we have a while yet until we'll be able to do anything. I'd advise all to rest. When you leave, you may require all the strength you can muster.”

Twilight glared at the unicorn, but finally gave up and laid down. “Fine. But once we get out of this city, I want to know exactly what it is you are.”

“Oh avatar. I can tell you that now. I am a friend.”

“Wooo! Best friends forever!” Pinkie yelled and threw confetti into the air.

“Where did she get that?” Octavia asked with a cocked eye.

“It's usually best not to ask,” Rainbow said with a shrug, before laying down on the hard metal ground.

“Commander Sapphire!” a stallion yelled as he galloped through the halls, his armor clanking and clanging with every step.

The earth pony turned and cocked an eyebrow. “What is it?”

“Ma'am, the Great Dragon has been spotted,” the pony said before skidding to a stop in front of her. He quickly formed a salute, though his chest heaved up and down as he caught his breath.

“Well, have all the fire benders gathered and prepare a location suitable for his landing.”

“That's just it, commander. The dragon stopped. He came close enough for us to see, but he veered away and is now resting on the clouds in the distance. We have no way of communicating with him.”

Sapphire stopped and glanced out the window. “Why wouldn't he... no matter. Send a pack of pegasi to see what he wants. Make sure they are strong enough to break through whatever barriers the Water Nation has prepared.” She then glanced down to the courtyard. “Have all the fire benders gathered as well. He may be waiting for them.”

The stallion nodded and gave another salute, before turning to leave.

“Hold,” the mare said as a grin formed on her lips. “Tell me, what do you think of the avatar's imprisonment? You have permission to speak freely.”

“Well... to be honest, I don't believe she is behind it. But I'm not sure who would try to harm our emperor aside from the Water Nation.”

“My thoughts exactly. I believe Photo Finish is using this tragedy to make a grab at the throne. She'll likely accuse me next of being the traitor.”

“Ma'am? But you're--”

“A loyal soldier of this kingdom. I have proven it again and again, but that is what she'll try. With the avatar imprisoned, I am the only one who she will likely see as a threat. Spread the word, if she or her soldiers try anything, no pony is to hesitate.”

“You mean--”

“Yes. This is the emperor's kingdom, I will not allow that pebble bender to take it because she sees an opening. Understand?”

“Of course. I will inform the others.” He trotted away.

Sapphire chuckled softly the moment she was alone, before trotting away through the halls. She stopped outside Photo's room, giving it three swift knocks, followed by a short pause and two slow ones. The door opened a crack. “It's time. The uniforms are stored in the prisoner's possession safe, in a large yellow crate. The guards will have the keys.”

“Got it. We'll take care of things, remember to give the signal once they finish.”

“Of course.” The mare trotted away as the door closed behind her. She couldn't suppress the grin as she walked. It was all going so... sensationally.

Sweetie smiled as she gently ran a hoof through her big sister's mane. “It's not your fault, sister. I mean, sure, he wouldn't have been stabbed if he wasn't trying to protect you, and that only happened because you told him. Not to mention the earth benders would have never harmed a fire bender if he hadn't protected you. But it's not your fault. It was an accident, right? It's not like you meant for your actions to cost him his life.”

Rarity trembled, her head buried in her sisters side as each word cut at the fresh wound. She knew Sweetie was just trying to help, but all she was doing was making it worse.

“And Littlewing? Well, that wasn't your fault. I mean, perhaps if you had spent more time practicing and honing your water bending so you could have just knocked him aside, he'd still be alive. But you can hardly be blamed for that! You were just panicking. You had far more important things to do than be precise,” Sweetie said with an evil grin, squealing inside as she felt her elder sister's emotional supports topple over, one by one. Guilt flowed free, allowing her to stand as the only support Rarity had left.

“Shadowhoof was definitely not your fault,” Sweetie said with a shake of her head. “Your healing arts are so... weak and shallow. I doubt you had much time or attention for them, right? So focused on bending? I'm sure our aunt would have known how to tend to him, but no pony could expect you to learn all of those skills from her. How could you have possibly known that one day some ponies life would hang in the balance?”

Rarity let out a soft, gentle wail. “I never... I never wanted to hurt any pony. I just wanted the avatar. That's all!”

“Exactly... it's the avatar's fault. All of it,” Sweetie said with a gentle coo into her sister's ear. “If she had just let you capture her, you'd be home now. None of those ponies would have died. They'd be safe and you could just be where you belong. With mother and I. But it's not too late.”

“I-It's not?”

“No.” The young mare leaned in to whisper. “Together, we can still capture her. Together, we can defeat this kingdom. Together, we can return to the Water Nation as heroes. Legends.”

“Yes,” Rarity said softly. “We... we will.”

“Good. Sister, look into my eyes,” Sweetie said as her eyes glowed with a purple light.

The door suddenly opened. “Sweetie!” Scootaloo said as she barged inside. “It's time, the dragon should be here soon. It's... what's going on here?” The pegasus cocked an eye at the sight of the two sisters intertwined. “Something weird?” The pegasus asked with a flat tone and roll of her eyes.

“Go away, we are almost finished,” Sweetie said with a growl. Rarity tried to pull away in embarrassment, but the younger princess gripped her cheeks and forced their eyes to lock.

Sweetie giggled with delight when she found it. The anger, the pain, the guilt. Three orbs of darkness dwelling inside her sister, nurtured like saplings until they pulsated with the same power and strength of Suri's. While she could not corrupt a pony to the extent of Discord's magic, she could expand their weakness, twist them until the pony was more susceptible to her whims. While she wished she could crush her sister's will until nothing remained but blind loyalty to her, she still lacked that power. For now.

“Report,” Sapphire ordered as she trotted out into the courtyard. Some, but not all, of the fire benders had been gathered in the courtyard. The team of pegasi were only now making their descent, albeit with far smaller numbers than they had left with. A few were soaking wet while others were slightly scorched around the wings.

“Ma'am,” the front runner of the group said with a salute. “The Great Dragon refuses to land in the city without the avatar's call. However, he is carrying the water benders as requested, as well as a detachment of... well...” The pegasus looked down, chewing on her lower lip.

“Well, what is it? Spit it out?”

“I'm not sure. They have these other ponies with them. But, I've never seen anything like them. They're all striped and... weird. Creepy looking. They call themselves zebras.”

“That's of no consequence. The water benders are the important ones, not a few oddly colored ponies.” She paused and rubbed her chin. “So he refuses to come unless the avatar greets him? This could be problematic.”

“Do you think Photo will try to stop her from talking with him? Perhaps use this as an excuse to... tighten her grip?”

Sapphire glanced to the pegasus, struggling to suppress a smile and keep her mask of worry. Already she could see the seeds of distrust sprouting in her soldier's eyes. A number of them were nodding along with the pegasus' words. “Perhaps,” the commander said. “However, I won't allow her. I'll bring the avatar to be escorted herself. If Photo wishes to cause any trouble because of it, I'll deal with her myself. Everypony just remember to keep an eye out for any of her soldiers.” The ponies nodded and she turned to trot away. She made her way through the city, a gentle smirk on her face as she passed by the clueless soldiers. She almost pitied their blind loyalty, though she hoped it would continue once the city fell. The mare wasn't sure she'd like the idea of having to imprison so many. Her step faltered as the purple swirled in her eyes for a few moments. She finally shook her head and continued trotting. No. She was the most powerful earth bender in the world. Those who did not obey her did not deserve to be out from the prisons to begin with.

Twilight was awoken by the sounds of the massive steel doors opening. She sat up with a groan. “W-what's going on?”

“Avatar, please come with me,” Sapphire said from the doorway.

“Huh? What?” Her friends were awakening as well. “Where are we going?”

“The Great Dragon requests your visit. Our pegasi will bring you to him.”

“What about my friends?”

“I'm afraid they'll have to wait here. Do not worry, avatar. They will remain safe.”

The alicorn gulped and looked to her friends with nervous eyes. “Girls, are you okay if--”

“Don't worry about us, we'll be fine,” Rainbow said before stifling a yawn. “Getting them into the city is probably going to be pretty important so do whatever you need to do. We can take care of our selves.”

The rest of her friends gave their agreement, causing the avatar to smile. “Okay. Let's go.”

Once the door slammed closed behind them, Sapphire turned to the alicorn with a grim look. “Avatar, I'm afraid I have dire news I can only share with you.”

“What is it? Oh no, is the Great Dragon wounded?”

“No. It's about Photo Finish. I'm sure you noticed how quickly she had you and your companions tossed into prison?” The mare began to walk, forcing Twilight to follow.

“Yes, but--”

“I believe she is using our emperors disappearance to attempt a subtle coup. You stand in the way, however. I'm removing you from the prisons from under her nose, but once she realizes what I'm doing she'll likely try to capture you again. You must be careful. She may possibly be responsible for the disappearance of your earth pony friend.”

“Applejack? What did she do to her? Do you know? Is she okay?”

“I don't know. All you need to know is you can trust me. The dragon will be safe so long as I am there. As will you and the fire benders.”

Twilight nodded and smiled. “Thanks. It's good to know I still have one pony out here I can depend on.”

“Of course. Just trust me, avatar. Everything will be alright. Now, how good are you at flying?”

“I'm no wonderbolt, but I can do a pretty good job.”

“Good. You'll need to fly through the barrier the Water Nation has set up.” The two continued on until they stepped out into the daylight, where a dozen pegasi stood at attention, waiting for her arrival.

“I don't suppose they're air benders?” Twilight asked with a nervous chuckle.

“Where would we have gotten air benders from? They're just normal pegasi, to set up the weather as needed. If you don't feel safe going with them, we could try going by land. However, that could cost the lives of dozens, or even hundreds of--”

“By air is fine,” Twilight said with a nervous gulp. Before she could say any more, she was whisked away by the pegasi and drawn into the air. Tension surrounded them as she struggled to keep up. They were graceful, experienced fliers. Meanwhile, she was an air bender. Actual flight without bending was a struggle for her. Fortunately, they managed to adjust to her slightly erratic flight patterns before they flew over the wall, allowing them to move as a solid unit.

The dragon was easy to see, his massive frame perched on top of a cloud even larger than the one holding Cloudsdale. Unsurprisingly, the mass required to make the resting spot left the skies clear. The Water Nation seemed to be giving the beast a wide berth, the ground he floated over completely devoid of even the smallest tank.

The clear skies proved to be a benefit. There was nowhere for the approaching pegasi of the Water Nation to hide as they lifted off from the camps and flew towards the avatar's group. Groups of water benders gathered over large drums of water, bending together to sends fountains of the icy liquid at them. “Hard left!” one of the pegasi yelled out and the group veered to the left. Twilight was caught by surprise, barely moving into position with them as the pillar of water exploded, missing the group but still showering them.

“What was that?” the alicorn asked with a gasp.

“Water. They're trying to slow us down enough so their pegasi will have a chance. Just try to avoid getting too wet and you'll be fine,” a pegasus to her right said as the group tried to shake the moisture off as best they could. Three more explosions of water went off by them, drenching the group, before the enemy pegasi were close enough to risk hitting.

“Hold on!” Twilight yelled as she dropped from the group. She turned to the pegasi and stopped. The approaching ponies were dressed in armor, but none wore the shadowbolt's uniforms. They appeared to just be normal soldiers of the Water Nation. Her distraction cost her precious moments as the nearest pegasi came straight at her. She flapped her wings faster, the winds starting to pick up but she realized she was too slow.

The pegasus' hoof came straight at her, but at the last moment it veered off and went past her head. Her winds picked up and sent the pegasi hurtling backwards, scattering the soldiers. They pulled back from her, giving up almost instantly. She stared in confusion, before shaking her head and flying after the group.

“Well done, avatar. You showed them who's boss,” one of her group's pegasi said.

“I-I guess. They used to be a lot more tenacious than that,” the alicorn said before glancing back. “A lot more. I've never seen them give up so quickly. They aren't even shooting shards of ice at us.”

“They must be tired of you crushing them so hoofedly. Maybe they're getting smarter!” another of her companions said with a chuckle. It was clear flying the rest of the way to the dragon, but Twilight was unable to shake the feeling of unease that buried itself into her stomach. Even as she landed on the cloud before the Great Dragon and stared up at his huge, red hide, she could not shake the trepidation that flowed all the way to her hooves.

Applejack's legs burned, but she couldn't stop clanging against the metal. Perspiration flowed down her body, rising off her in thin clouds of steam. She kept her eyes closed, each clang of hooves against metal gave her a little more information. Allowed her to see a little more clearly. Revealed a little more of the impossible. She gave it another powerful buck as the smallest of dents formed against the surface.

Chapter 30: Final Assault

Twilight nervously gulped and stared up at the Great Dragon. He watched her with unwavering eyes, making it difficult to speak. “A pleasure to see you again, sir. We should retreat to the city though. There is a lot we need to discuss and the extra reinforcements could do wonders. That, and I imagine many of them would feel more comfortable on solid grounds.” A number of ponies gazed at the alicorn from their perch and nodded, she noted some had turned pale.

“As you wish, avatar,” the dragon said as he slowly got up and spread his wings. The ponies on his back let out gasps and latched on. “You are quite certain this city is safe?”

“Of course. There is nowhere safer. The Water Nation has launched a few assaults, but we've been able to drive them back with ease.”

“Very well. If you feel it is so, I shall trust your judgment.” The Great Dragon flapped his wings, nearly toppling the pegasi and alicorn over as he took to the air. The cloud beneath him shattered, torn to pieces as the mighty creature began its flight towards the city.

Twilight followed in his wake, glancing to the Water Nation forces below. They made no attempts to impede the dragon's progress. She knew she should feel happy, but all she could feel was an icy dread that spread through her core. Something felt off, she just couldn't place it.

Sweetie gazed out from the palace's top floor, watching the courtyard. Already her soldiers were spilling forth from the jails below, their guards incapacitated. Though she couldn't identify them, she could almost feel as their numbers spread through the city. Nearly an entire army held under the city, having bidden its time until finally it could strike. She scoffed at the foolishness of the emperor. Such a force should have been executed, not fed and cared for.

“Your highness?” Flim asked as he trotted into the room. “The dragon should be here at any moment, your orders?”

“My orders are already known. There is no reason for you to be here.” She glanced to the ponies at her side, Flowerbloom and Scootaloo.

“My brother and I just thought you might appreciate some extra company,” Flam said as he trotted in as well. “In case anything goes wrong, some extra earth benders could--”

“If anything goes wrong, you could turn on me and pretend you were helping the Earth Kingdom all along. If you captured the commander, truly you would be seen as heroes, no?”

“What? Noooo! Of course not, we would have never helped you find these earth benders if--”

“Don't lie to me. Your little tricks and games may work on lesser ponies, but they don't work on me. You're little more than foals attempting to out play the master.” She turned to the two, her eyes glowing purple. “My plans will not fail. A kingdom divided amongst itself cannot survive such a powerful attack both from within, and without.”

“O-of course,” Flim said with a soft squeak as he turned to leave. “W-we'll just, g-get back to work on, ummm, p-preparations.”

“No. You won't,” Sweetie said with a soft chuckle. “Flowerbloom, Scootaloo, go with them. Get my sister as well. Once the dragon lands, everything begins. Make sure your tasks are taken care of before then.”

The two mares nodded before trotting away. “What plan?” Flam asked nervously.

“Just some added security. Go with them. NOW!” Sweetie ordered. The two stallions yelped and ran after the mares. The unicorn glanced back to the courtyard. She watched as the ponies prepared for the arrival of the dragon, her grin growing wider and wider.

The clangs from the prisoner's tents finally silenced, eliciting a sigh of relief from Caballeron and his two guards. “I was beginning to think she'd nev--” Pinprick's words were drowned out as a loud crash came from the tent, followed a moment later by a second one. “What was that?”

The three charged inside, though Perry arrived first. The small prisons had been torn open, the metal ripped open from within. “How did they... it's a trick!”

“How can it be a trick?” Caballeron asked with gritted teeth. “They aren't inside. They had to-- gah!” The ground suddenly lifted up and tossed the three in the prisons, the earth pony in one and the two unicorns in the other. Applejack galloped forward, her hooves gripping the edges of the prison and crushing them closed.

“I don't know how you managed to do such a thing,” Photo said from behind her. “But truly, you do have ze magic. Bending such graceless materials into broken shapes. I love it!”

“We ain't done yet!” Applejack yelled before stomping her hooves. Three walls of stone shot out behind them, tearing the tent from the ground but also temporarily protecting them from that side of the camp. “It won't take long for them tah get soldiers out here!” The two galloped towards through the camp towards the city. They stomped on the ground with every few stamps, flinging tents and startled ponies aside as they made their escape. Fortunately, they could see the walls of the city though it would take time to reach them.

The cheers were deafening as the dragon landed in the center of the courtyard, its wings spreading out over the gathered ponies and even over the palace itself. The ponies galloped off the massive creature, though the water benders looked confused. “Where's is Vinyl?” one asked.

“She's safe,” Twilight said quickly. “There is a minor problem going on at the moment. But, now that you're all in the city it should be fine.” She looked towards the fire benders, the dragon, the water benders and then... “Err, please don't take this the wrong way but, ummm... what kind of earth pony are you?”

“We sadly could not bring a letter, but we are those who gave the benders shelter,” a strange gray striped pony with a mohawk said as she stepped forward. “Zebra is what we are known, to offer our aid a great distance we have flown.” She bowed her head. “Zecora is my name, though I'm afraid I lack your fame.”

“A uhhh, a pleasure,” the alicorn said, though she kept scanning the ponies who came to meet them. The fire benders looked happy to be back with the dragon and even seemed tolerant of the water benders and zebras. No fights or arguments seemed to be breaking out at least. “I'm not familiar with the zebras.”

“I'm afraid our bending talents are nonexistent,” Zecora said with a smile. “But our talents with nature's magic are quite consistent.”

“That's nice,” the avatar said dismissively as something caught her eye. A dozen Dai Li who were making their way towards the group, their heads down low. “Can we help you?”

The nearest one nodded. “Is everypony gathered? The fire benders, the water benders and the dragon?” The group stopped.

“Yes, this is everypony,” Sapphire said with a glare. “Why, what did Photo want?”

“Just that,” the earth pony said before stomping his hooves, the other mimicking his movements. A stone spire shot out from the ground, directly under the dragon's chest. He shoved away, the stones glancing off the scales harmlessly.

Sapphire and her soldier's reacted almost instantly. A few descended on the stone spikes, shattering them to dust while the commander and her troops rushed forward and sent a wave of dirt over the attackers.

Within seconds the fighting was over, the Dai Li were encased in stone, struggling against their bindings. “W-what? What's going on?” Twilight squeaked before turning to the dragon. He fortunately looked fine. “Are you okay?”

“I knew it! The Dai Li are traitors, that Photo Finish! Soldiers!” Sapphire yelled out, before her warriors stood at attention. “Spread the word. Capture every Dai Li in the city, all are to be imprisoned.”

The avatar gulped. “I don't think we should go that far, we don't even know--”

“I will not take any risks. We can sort them now. Spread the word, go!” Sapphire yelled before the soldiers nodded their heads and galloped away, leaving only the commander and a small force remaining. “Everypony gather together. We can best protect you if the Dai Li try anything else. Avatar, you as well.”

The ponies nodded their heads and encircled the dragon. “What is the meaning of this? Why am I being attacked?” the elder dragon asked, his voice loud and echoing through the courtyard.

“I'm sorry for this, all of this,” Twilight said before she moved to join the others. “I knew that tensions were getting high, but I never imagined... never imagined...” She trailed off and looked to the ground. She felt rumbling, but not from the gathered ponies. It felt underground. She wished she had Applejack's earth sensing abilities trained better. “Sapphire, how many of Photo's soldiers would be working on the underground water system?”

“None, why?”

“Because... nothing,” the alicorn said gently. She eyed the earth pony for a few moments before staring down at the ground. She couldn't shake it. Something was wrong, she could feel it.

Applejack and Photo galloped towards the great wall, mud coating their bodies and blood dripping from their sides. The former looked back, paling at the sight of almost the entire army seeming to chase after them. Even the tanks were racing down the road and the sky was filled with pegasi. Fortunately, there were almost home free.

“Open ze gate!” Photo yelled. They stopped and waited, but there was no response. Dust was flying at the top of the wall, but no pony came out to speak with them.

“We got no choice!” Applejack yelled before galloping to the wall. The two ran and leaped into it, the stone opening around them as they flew through. When they landed they turned back and lifted their hooves, sealing it up behind them. Once that was finished they turned back to the inner city, their mouths falling open.

Large chunks had been torn from the farmland as the Dai Li and the city's guard engaged in fierce earth bending battles. “What... what is zis?” Photo asked with her mouth agape. The wall behind them began to shake and tremble. “What? No! We must stop them! The Water Nation, it attacks!”

Applejack nodded. “Eeyup! Come on!” The two galloped towards the nearest fight.

“What is going on here? Cease immediately!” Photo demanded before slamming her hoof down, a wall of stone separating the two.

“Photo! You traitor!” one of the soldier's yelled, pointing an accusing hoof. “What are you doing here?”

“What? Traitor? Sapphire is the traitor, I--” The mare was nearly crushed by a pillar of stone when Applejack yanked her back. “You dare to attack me! You... you ungraceful duck!”

The great wall exploded, filling the air with dust and dirt as rocks the size of carriages rained down on them. “No! Where are ze wall defenders?” Photo yelled out before turning to face the new threat. “Applejack, go! Warn the inner city! I must deal with this!”

“But--”

“Go! Stop the fighting! Get ze avatar! I'll hold them off as long as I can! If it is too late, escape! Take the emperor and go!”

Applejack looked to the mare, then to the invading forces. Fortunately, the earth benders picked up on the much greater threat and were trying to push them back. Unfortunately, they were horribly out numbered and many had already been brought down by the infighting. She turned and galloped away, towards the inner city.

Sapphire watched over the city with smug satisfaction, though she had to struggle to keep the frown on her face. Earth bender fought earth bender through out the city, tiring themselves out as rock and dirt sailed through the air. As expected, the Dai Li were fighting their unjust incarceration and her soldiers were refusing to be negotiated with. The 'Dai Li' they had captured had gone still in their prisons, now waiting for the precise time to strike.

She was a little miffed they had failed to kill, or even hurt, the Great Dragon with their surprise attack, but it was not a requirement. With all the ponies and threats gathered together, it was only a matter of time. Under their hooves, earth bender and water bender worked together, removing the real soldiers and now slowly making their way under the courtyard. Thousands of gallons of water was being prepared, twisted and cursed by the unicorns as the earth ponies slowly tunneled below. Already she could feel how close they were, soon the ground would crumble out from under their hooves and four of the nation's threats would be gone in one fell swoop. The avatar, the Great Dragon, the water bender traitors and, most importantly, the final fire benders.

Sapphire watched Twilight out of the corner of her eye. The avatar was the one threat, with her earth bending she could possibly sense what was happening. However, the earth pony doubted it. Few ponies knew how to sense through earth bending, it was a rare trick to study. It was why they had to remove that Applejack. Below, more and more earth was torn away as the venomous water came closer and closer. Soon they would fall into the ground, buried in cursed water and grounded up by collapsing stone.

“Sapphire, I need to check on my friends.” Twilight suddenly called out.

“W-what?” the commander asked with a shuffle of her hooves.

“If Photo is making her move, she might try to hurt them. We should release them from the prison.”

“There should be no need, my guards are watching the prison and will keep them safe. No Dai Li could get around them.”

“If that was true, how could those twelve get out here to attack us?” The Great Dragon asked, his eyes narrowing on the mare.

“We didn't know they would try something like this. They have--”

“But you already suspected they'd try, didn't you?” Twilight asked before glancing down. “They could even be below ground, waiting to launch another attack. We should get my friends and get them into the air with the dragon. From there we can--”

“No, we should... should...” The earth pony struggled to find a way out, but it refused to come. “You're right avatar. But please, allow me to get them. You must stay here, where it's safe. You four are our greatest threats, we can't separate you.”

Twilight's eyes widened. “Threats? What do you--”

Sapphire's eyes widened before she stomped her hooves. The prisons holding the 'Dai Li' shattered and the ponies moved in precision. Stone pillars shot out from the ground, arching into the air and around the dragon and groups, forming a cage around them. The commander got to work on the underground as the ground started to spread and sink, rumbling under them as more benders worked from the bottom. “Just had to keep asking questions, didn't you?” the commander asked bitterly.

“Sapphire, what are you doing?” the alicorn asked before running to the bars. She tried bending it open, but the moment she made the smallest hole, more stone melded to fix it. She looked around for any help, but to her horror the other soldiers were working to reinforce the prison.

“Avatar! Now is not the time to ask questions, we must break this prison!” the Great Dragon said with a growl. He took a deep breath before unleashing a torrent of flames on it. The heat was so intense everypony was forced to back away behind the beast, struggling and sliding on the loose, trembling floor.

The flames soon died, revealing a small hole, barely the size of a foal, which quickly closed. “You're done for, avatar. You should have never opposed the Water Nation,” Sapphire said as she rubbed his hooves along the ground, quickening the speed of the ground collapsing under them.

“Don't give in! Fire benders, work with the dragon!” Twilight yelled before flames gathered on the tip of her horn. The tribe mimicked her motions, lowering themselves as best they could for stability. Flames erupted against the wall, searing it. Soon small sparking orbs of flame erupted against it as well, heating their prison like an inferno as they poured everything they had into it.

When the assault stopped, the prison had a large hole burned through, as wide as five ponies. The alicorn spread her wings and took off! Or at least, she tried. Her hooves refused to move no matter how she flapped.

Her gaze lowered to the ground and she let out a yelp. Dark water was flooding up from small holes in the ground, wrapping around the ponies and holding them back. “AHHH! Get it off!” One of the fire benders yelled, tugging and pulling. Just as quickly as it had flowed up them, it began flowing down. The darkness evaporated from it, turning to clear liquid as the water bender's raised their hooves and brought them down again, purging the curses.

With her legs freed, Twilight flew up towards the hole. She slammed into solid stone, eliciting a pained groan while she stared in bewilderment. The cage had already repaired itself. “No, try it again!” she yelled.

The ground rumbled under their hooves, throwing more ponies off their hooves. Fountains of venomous liquid spurted throughout the ground, the water benders working as fast as they could to dispel and control it. Twilight's eyes widened. “Stop dispelling the water!”

“What? Avatar, have you gone mad?” one of the water benders asked.

“No! Don't dispel it, send it out through the cage, into the earth benders!” The unicorn's nodded and soon the water was bursting out through walls of the cage, flying at the earth benders.

“Don't let it touch you!” Sapphire yelled before stomping her hooves and bringing up a wall to stop the water from getting to her. One of the soldiers weren't so fast, getting wrapped in the dark water as it coiled around his body. The others quickly started working on defense, forming walls of stone.

“Now, while they're distracted, burn it!” Flames tore through the air, exploding against the prison and shattering stone. A much larger hole was revealed, and Twilight didn't hesitate flying through it. The moment she was out she rained flame down on their attackers, forcing them to gallop away or be seared.

“It's too late, avatar!” Sapphire yelled before stomping her hoof down. Large cracks formed on the ground under the captured ponies and dragon. “You may escape, but they will not!”

The ground shattered, dropping the prisoners into the ground. They fell a foot before the ground closed up under them and the prison around them exploded into pebbles. The dark liquid started enveloping the ponies, though it quickly dropped to harmless clear liquid within moments.

“Move your gosh buckin' flanks!” Applejack yelled through gritted teeth, her hooves buried inches in the ground as she struggled to keep the stone beneath them from being torn apart.

With the encouragement, the ponies leaped from the pit. The dragon, on the other other hoof, stood up to its full height and placed a massive claw on either end of the hole. It glared down at the earth benders, who promptly turned and ran as quickly as they could. The one who had been enveloped in water was quickly released, though a swift buck to the side of the head dropped him.

Sapphire turned and galloped away to the palace.

“We can't let her get away!” Twilight yelled.

“No, there's no time for that!” Applejack said before grabbing the alicorn's tail. “The city is under attack. The Water Nation is making their move. The outer wall has already fallen and ah don't know if they kin hold the inner wall with those numbers.”

The avatar paled. “But... but they...”

“We need tah git! If we lose the fire benders an' the water benders an' you, this war is over! Where's the emperor?”

“The emperor's gone! We can't just--”

“Your friend speaks the truth,” the Great Dragon said. “If this city is to fall, you cannot be here when it does. It is time to make your escape. Come.”

Twilight lowered her eyes, but nodded. “You're right. Everypony, get onto his back. Applejack, I need you to come with me.” She turned, but found her way blocked by the dragon's arm.

“No, we must leave now. There--”

“I can't leave yet! My friends are still trapped in the prison, I won't leave them.”

“But--”

“It's not just for me! They're the elements, without them I won't be able to fight Discord. I need their help!”

The dragon, grudgingly, moved its arm away. “You must be quick, like the wind.”

“Of course. Applejack, come on.” Together, the ponies galloped into the palace, intent on finding their friends before it was too late.

Sweetie stood in front of the prison, the key hanging around her neck. The three guards were on the ground, their bodies locked up and unmoving due to Scootaloo's touch. Buckets of water were spilled across the ground, coating it. “Sister, are you well?” the young princess asked while glancing to Rarity.

“Y-yes. I'm fine. Just... fine,” Rarity said softly. “You're right. I know what we must do.”

“Good. Flim, Flam, Sapphire,” Sweetie said with a chuckle. “Don't attack unless I give the word. The avatar is... of mediocre intelligence. Once she realizes we hold all the cards, she might just surrender. Without this key though, there is nothing she can do.” She glanced to Scootaloo and Flowerbloom. “If anything goes wrong though, I'll trust you to deal with any help. No pony forget. The avatar is mine and my sisters. No pony else is to lay a hoof on her.”

The sound of clattering hooves announced the alicorn and earth pony's arrival. The two stopped at the top of the stairs. Twilight's mouth fell open. “Flim? Flam? Sweetie? How did... Rarity! What are you doing here?”

“Fillydelphia is ours, avatar,” Sweetie said with a giggle. “Surrender and no more ponies have to be hurt.” She lifted the key from her neck and dropped it in the pool, suspending it on a block of ice. “Stand there and, well... all those ponies in that prison, I'd hate to imagine what would happen to them if this key was broken. Do you think you could free them before my soldiers arrived?”

“Y-your soldiers? Hah! They've already fallen, the attack was repelled!” Twilight lied with a nervous gulp. Three earth benders, two water benders and two quite skilled fighters. She didn't think she could take them all, even with Applejack.

“Don't lie, darling. It doesn't become you,” Rarity said suddenly. “We've won, avatar. Surrender now, and no more ponies have to die. If you don't, then add more lives you'll be responsible for.”

Applejack stepped forward, her eyes narrowed into slits. “We ain't givin' up that easy. Yah may have a buncha ponies, but yah know what we got? One small lil wall that separates us from reinforcements. Yah!” She stomped on the ground and a spike of rock shot out from the wall, shattering against the metal prison. It didn't even leave a dent. “Oh... kay... a mighty thick wall.”

“Now, your decision?” Sweetie asked before lowering her hoof on the key.

“How long can yah hold 'em off?” Applejack whispered.

“What? All of them? I-I don't know. A few minutes?”

“Good. Ah gotta plan.”

“What are you two whispering about? I want your answer, now!” the princess growled, lowering her hoof.

“Jus' trust me. Don't worry about the key. When ah say go, drive 'em away from that door. Go!” Applejack said before charging forward.

Twilight spread her wings and launched forward. Fire formed on her horn and she drew a line in front of the ponies, driving them back as steam filled the air. The sister's took a step forward and raised their hooves, sending twisting spirals of ice and water hurtling at the alicorn. She countered with powerful flappings of her wings, sending massive gusts of wind through the spire and forcing the ponies to slip and skid against the ground.

Unfortunately, the element of surprise didn't last long. A loud clang filled the air as Applejack bucked the prison door once. The other ponies didn't hesitate, Flowerbloom hurtling her daggers as the three earth benders sent spikes of stone at her from three different directions. There was no where for her to escape.

Then the most miraculous thing the avatar had ever seen happened. Applejack pushed against the door and it bent, inward. She pushed through, sliding inside in time for the daggers and spikes of earth to slam against the door. Moments later the door spread outward. Every pony just stopped and stared as she stepped out from the door.

“Did ah forget tah mention ah went an' invented metal bendin'? Come on, girls! We got us a ripe rodeo goin' on here!”

“Oh yeah, that's what I'm talking about!” Rainbow yelled as she burst out from the prison.

“Why can't you bend like that, Octy?” Vinyl asked as she trotted from the prison.

“I... I didn't think it could be done,” Octavia said as she galloped from the prison. Sweetie's forces got over their surprise and launched more spikes of earth, but they disappeared into dust.

“Enough! Pinkie, Vinyl, Fluttershy, Octavia,” Twilight called out. “Get everypony in the prison outside. The dragon's waiting. Rainbow, Applejack and I will handle them.”

“You forgot one pony,” Celestia said before trotting out from the prison.

“Auntie! You're alive!” Rarity called out before taking a step forward. “Quick, help us defeat the avatar and her friends! We still outnumber them, we--”

“No. Niece,” the unicorn turned to the elder princess. “Stop this. Your sister is turning you, this is not the pony you are. You are a kind, generous mare. Not one who destroys kingdoms and crushes opposition under hoof. Turn from her, join me.”

Rarity stared, mouth agape. She looked between her sister and aunt, no pony willing to move as the tension began to grow. She finally lowered her head. “No. Aunt. If you won't fight with us.” She raised her head, eyes glowing with purple light. “Then you fight against us. I have no mercy for traitors.”

“Flowerbloom, what's wrong?” Scootaloo whispered before giving her friend a nudge.

“Huh? Ah, oh, ummm, n-nothing,” the earth pony whispered as she finally pulled her eyes away from Applejack. “Ah just... nothing. We needta stop 'em!”

Sweetie nodded. “Okay, take them out! The avatar and Celestia are ours. The rest, do as you wish. Go!”

“Get everypony out, we'll be behind you!” Twilight yelled to the others before she, Rainbow, Applejack and Celestia charged forward. The others started working on helping all in the prison escape and head towards the door.

The Flim Flam brothers stomped their hooves down as two pillars of stone shot out from the floor and wall at diagonal angles, attempting to smash Applejack between them. The mare rode the bottom one and bucked the top one as it came out, shooting it back into the wall before a pillar shot up from under the two and hurtled them into the air. Rainbow flew in, circling the two in a tight spin cycle before hurtling them into the ground. The pegasus did two quick loops before diving towards them.

Unfortunately, the mare had to pull away when three daggers zipped past her wings, clipping a feather off. She flew back to Applejack's side, her passing sending a blast of air through the chamber and forcing the ponies to cringe back. “You got a plan?” Rainbow asked.

“Yeah, we jus' gotta hold 'em off until the others got some time. Don't needta beat 'em.”

“Boring!” the pegasus rolled her eyes and glanced over their opponents. Scootaloo was keeping her distance, waiting for a chance to get in close, but Flowerbloom had frozen again, watching the pair with confusion. Rainbow glanced to Twilight.

The alicorn's horn was alight with flame as she sent streams of fire to counter the watery whips that assaulted her. Celestia moved with the avatar, though her movements were far smoother, gracefully deflecting ice and water with as much ease as Twilight would have on a light walk. Sweetie formed spikes of ice and sent them hurtling at the two, causing the alicorn to stomp her hoof and form a wall of stone to block the assault.

Twilight shoved the stone forward, sending it hurtling at the two water benders. Sweetie formed a blade of water and cleaved the stone in half. Rarity charged between the two stones, thrusting her hooves forward so the water sprayed out and up. It arched through the air, turning to ice and then spraying sharp, jagged needles at the two.

Celestia lifted a hoof, turning the water around them into a bubble shield which absorbed the ice, before shooting out small blocks of ice back at the two. Rarity stepped back as Sweetie stepped forward and raised a swirling cyclone of water which gripped and hurtled the ice blocks back at the two. Rarity stomped her hooves down and the bubble popped in time for the blocks to strike the two, knocking them back.

“Twilight, other mare, jump!” Rainbow yelled. The two leaped into the air on command as the ground erupted out from under them. Dirt, dust and stone hailed on the ponies, knocking them back. The four gathered up, watching the cloud of dust.

“How is everypony holding up?” Twilight asked nervously as she scanned the cloud.

“Flim and Flam ain't a bother, but Sapphire is a proper bender,” Applejack said quickly. “Can't even get too close, that lil winged pony is too big a threat if we do.”

“The little knife thrower isn't a pleasure either,” Rainbow said with a growl. She dove backwards as a spire of rock nearly impaled her. “They got the prisoners out, we should go. They can attack from anywhere here, we need to get to someplace more open. Hopefully with less water.”

Celestia nodded and swirled her head around. The water moved around her in a tight circle before forming into a thick mist. She then stomped her hooves as waves of the liquid rushed forward to topple the ponies over. “Let us go then!”

“On it!” Twilight said and the ponies turned to run. As they passed the doorway, Applejack gave it a firm buck and the rock and stone collapsed behind them.

“Let's git while the gittin's good!” the earth pony yelled. The four galloped through the palace, Applejack occasionally collapsing paths and tunnels of rock behind them. Before they knew it, they galloped out into the courtyard, the dragon on all fours. Everypony was on its back, awaiting escape. “We've gone an' done it! We're-- look out!” She stomped her hoof as a spike of earth flowed out to their right. Flim and Flam popped out in its path, pushing their hooves out to stop the spike. Rarity appeared from behind them, brought out with their bending, an orb of purple, poisonous liquid hovering over her head.

The elder princess thrust her head forward, spears of poisonous water shooting forth at the escaping ponies. Twilight took to the air, flying head first at the dangerous liquid and spreading out her wings. With powerful flaps and gratuitous use of air bending she sent the liquid hurtling backwards and the three ponies toppled over.

“TWILIGHT!” Applejack screamed. “LOOK OUT!”

The alicorn barely had time to look around before catching the glimmer of movement below and feel the pain spreading through her chest. Sweetie stood under the avatar, drawn up by Sapphire. The spear of purple, poisoned water stood pierced through Twilight's body, eliciting nothing more than a stunned gasp from the mare, before her eyes began to close and she fell toppling through the air.

“Twilight!” Rainbow screamed as she dove forward. Sweetie lifted a hoof and drew out more water from around, but it twisted and struck her across the face.

Celestia stepped forward, her horn aglow. “Take the avatar, get out of here!”

Applejack gulped as she watched her friend being carried off by Rainbow. Sweetie was still struggling with the water that Celestia attacked her with. The earth pony finally spoke up. “But what about--”

“I'll be fine. Just go before it's too late!”

Applejack nodded before galloping towards the dragon. A pillar of stone shot out from under her, allowing her to soar through the air and land on the dragon's back as Rainbow landed with Twilight. Within moments it spread its wings and took to the air, the powerful gusts forcing the ponies to brace themselves.

“Fluttershy!” Rainbow yelled, scanning the crowds as she held Twilight to her chest.

The yellow pegasus came forward, though her eyes fell on the alicorn, blood dripping from her chest, and the mare took a step back. “T-twilight, is she...”

“She's not yet, but you need to help her!”

Fluttershy gulped as tears welled up in her eyes. She stared with wide eyed horror before closing them once again. With a deep breath, they opened. She galloped forward and put her hooves to the mare's chest and tried. She blocked out everything as she focused on the one important task.

She ignored the powerful winds that beat against them. She ignored the sounds of the fire benders as they struggled to fight off the Water Nation's pegasi pursuers. She even ignored the fear as she realized that, no matter what she did, she could not save one of her best friends.

Her healing wasn't strong enough.

Zecora stepped forward from the gathered ponies, walking towards the avatar, eyes narrowed.

“Then the avatar fell, by Rarity's hooves!” Sweetie said with glee. “The alicorn didn't even see it coming. One moment she was there, the next impaled through the chest.”

Nightmare Moon stared down at her daughters, eyes narrowed to slivers as the two stood before her. “And the talk of Fillydelphia? Just how much of that is true? Did you really leave a... earth pony in charge?”

“Caballeron had proven himself a loyal soldier, so I did leave him in charge along with Sapphire. Many of the soldiers bowed to our command once the city fell and, aside from a few we had to remove, the city is now completely under our control.” A wide grin spread across Sweetie's face. “After that, all that remained was Cloudsdale. Those ponies fled the moment we came near. The world is now ours, mother. We have won.”

Nightmare Moon stood from her throne and slowly walked towards the two. Her hooves wrapped around them, pulling them into a hug that shocked Rarity to the core. It had been so long since her mother had shown... had even touched her, let alone showed affection.

“Sweetie,” the ruler said gently. “I knew sending you was the correct decision. However, I never would have guessed you would succeed so spectacularly. Even bringing back my lost daughter.”

Sweetie gulped nervously. “Does that mean--”

“Yes. Rarity,” Nightmare said with a gentle smile before pulling away. “I hereby reinstate you to your position.”

The unicorn shivered. “M-mother, you mean... I... I can...”

“Yes, my dear child.” Nightmare slowly pulled away before turning towards a large door behind her throne. “And I believe you two have earned the right to share in my greatest triumph.”

“Mother? What about Fillydelphia?” Sweetie asked through gritted teeth.

“A triumph indeed, but this is beyond even that. Come.” She trotted towards the door and swung it open with enough force to echo through the hall. Inside the new room a pillar of crystal stood, surrounded by six pillars. Runes were emblazoned across the ground. “This is the greatest triumph of all the Water Nation.”

“What is it?” Rarity asked nervously. When she stepped in the room she felt a chill go through her bones.

“Discord will return soon. Or at least, his prison will. We will release him and, using all we've learned in the last hundred years, bind his power to our command. With his might at our disposal, not even whatever new avatar appears will be able to stop us. With it, I will remake the world in my image.” She glanced back to her daughters and smiled. “Then, one day, the world will fall to your hooves. As my heirs.”

A wicked grin formed on Sweetie's face at the powerful, wonderful words. Rarity, on the other hoof, couldn't shake the feeling of unease that swelled in her gut, though she forced a smile and even a laugh as the other two began their own. The laughter echoed through the halls of the palace, making even the guards shiver when it flowed around them.

Bronzehoof flipped a small deck of cards, one by one, through the air and into an upside down top hat. The unicorn was bored out of his mind, struggling to stay awake as the moon hung in the sky overhead. He could hear his two subordinates working in the back, scrubbing away at pots and pans while the rest of the fort's guards slept soundly in their beds.

Unfortunately, the fort was bordering along the air nomad's lands. Right on the border. Their forces had been so pushed in for longer than he had been stationed here, so aside from the occasional ship restocking there was little to nothing for them to ever do aside from waiting out their term.

At least, on most nights. He tossed another card before a loud grinding sound caught his attention. He gazed over the battlements and his mouth fell open. A cloaked pony was making its way towards the fort. Behind it was a buffalo, pulling a wheel-less wagon holding something large and covered with a cloth. The wagon dragged across the ground, digging deep into the ground.

“Halt, who goes there!” Bronzehoof yelled before galloping down the wall's stairs and running to the front gate. He pushed it open with minor difficulty, it wasn't even locked. The pony stopped, the glow of torches just barely illuminating under the cloak to show a small golden necklace and soft blue coat.

“I've come to offer a gift to the new princess,” the pony, a mare judging by the voice, said.

“What is it?” the soldier asked as he stood up straight. It took him a moment to realize he hadn't even donned his armor. Perhaps he had become too lax on his watches.

“Look for yourself,” the mare said with a wave of her hoof.

He snorted but stepped forward, pulling the cover down. His mouth nearly hit the ground when the cloth did, staring in the large cage on top of the wagon. “That's a... that's... that's a...”

“A dragon. One of the last. Please, give it to the new princess with this, as a gift from my master.” A small letter flew to Bronzehoof's hoof.

He looked down at it with a cocked eye. “There's only one princess. She'll want this... huh?” When he looked up, the mare was gone, as was the buffalo. He couldn't even see their hoof prints. “Where did she go? How... no matter. Snips! Snails! Get your butts down here!” He heard clattering followed by the sound of shattered glass, a signal the two clumsy oafs had broken something else. He rolled his eyes before tearing open the letter and flipping it open. He read it for a few moments before tossing it aside, letting it blow away in the breeze.

'Dear Princess,

Today I learned just how much fun all you ponies can be. Don't think it's all over yet, it's only just begun. I hope my gifts bring you as much pleasure as they have me.

Love, D~'

Author's Note

Book 2 done! Woooo! I hope you all enjoyed it. I'm really proud I actually managed to do all this. I actually managed to sit down and write all this out in one straight shot, no taking breaks or getting distracted by other projects, Just a little over 4 months of work! Hope you guys look forward to book 3!

Spoiler: Book 3

The sun glimmered down on hundreds of ponies, unicorns and earth ponies, all wearing the Water Nation's armor. They stood in perfect formation, watching a single red carpet that went down between them and made its way from the airship port to the castle. A great black ship, the Moonscar, slowly glided into port, causing the ponies to stare up in anticipation.

Two ponies stepped forward first, both unicorns with white coats. The elder had a purple mane, while the younger had a pink striped mane. Both wore flowing black garments, etched with the moon across their flanks and hooves. The crowds erupted into cheers as the two walked from the ship, smiles etched across their faces.

The elder pony, Rarity, glanced to her sister, Sweetie Belle, and smiled. “Quite the turn out.”

“Of course! They just couldn't wait to see us again, big sister!”

“Mother, father?” Rarity asked, glancing back. Behind her stood two more elder unicorns, both wearing clear, dark blue cloaks, etched with the crescent moon.

“It's fine, dear,” the mare, Luna, said. She had a dark blue coat, with a flowing blue mane.

“Everypony must be relieved to see us return after our trip,” the stallion said. He had a dark gray coat, with a black and blue striped mane. “Though, personally I think they're just happy the three prettiest mares in the Water Nation have come back to grace the capital with their presence,” he said in a soft, teasing tone.

Luna giggled, bumping his rump with her own. “Oh, you knock that off right now,” she said, her voice filled with mirth.

Rarity stopped, a soft voice piercing her ears. She looked around, confusion etched on her face. “Is something wrong?” Sweetie asked.

“I thought I heard somepony calling my name...”

“Everypony is calling our names, dear,” Luna said with a chuckle.

“No... I mean...” Through the crowds she thought she saw a flash of green and purple scales, but it was gone in a moment. She shook her head. “It must be my imagination.”

They trotted through the crowds, happy ponies yelling and calling their names, waving wildly. They waved back, occasionally chuckling at their happy subjects. Inside the castle was no different, ponies greeting them and asking how their journey was. Talks of the everlasting peace, minor scuffles in the outer reaches of the nation, but nothing worth worrying about. Before long, the four were surrounded by their advisers, discussing how best to prepare for the winter cold, keeping all their subjects warm and safe. As the rulers of the entire world, it was their duty to maintain safety for all.

Rarity sighed in contentment, watching her parents work, occasionally giving each other love filled glances. To her delight, there was a knock on the door and soon her aunt, the white unicorn Celestia, joined them. As always, the elder mare was a bundle of energy, happily playing harmless pranks on the advisers and doing her best to bring smiles to her niece's faces. The advisors could do naught but glare, the effect usually wasted when their manes were soaked.

“Rarity!” the voice yelled again, though it sounded much clearer this time. Pitiful, weak. Definitely a stallion. No, not a stallion, but a male. Something... else. She tried to focus on the happy times surrounding her, but it called yet again. Something needed her help. She turned to the towering oak doors that led outside the chamber. Outside the chamber was the source. She could feel it. She slowly walked to the door, her heart pounding. She reached out to touch it...

“Rarity!” A new voice cried, making her sit up in bed.

Author's Note

That's right, book 3 is up and ready for viewing... soon. Here's a little spoiler to alert all the favoriters out there. Hoping you're all looking forward to seeing the new adventure. :)