As the days wore on, Twilight noticed that Sabre always seemed tired; he did his best not to show it but his eyes were ever weary and his step sluggish. A particular afternoon found Twilight once again re-organizing the books in the library but she stopped as Sabre came in from outside.

“Sabre, hi.” She greeted.

“Hello, Lady Twilight.” He said rather weakly.

“Sabre, are you okay?” She went to him. “You’ve been like this for days now.”

“I am sorry, milady. Sleep eludes me these days.”

“Can I do anything?” Twilight asked as he slowly treaded by.

“Thank you, but I fear not. I shall try to rest awhile before the evening.”

“Well, the girls are heading over but I can reschedule.”

“Please, no need. I look forward to their visit.” He headed upstairs.

“I’m worried, Spike.” She admitted.

“I know, he’s been acting weird.” Spike agreed. “I can hear him talking to himself at night.”

“What?”

“He always says it’s just bad dreams.”

“I wish he’d talk to me.” Twilight resumed her work with a sigh.

Sabre collapsed as he made it to his room, he felt himself grow cold and his bleary eyes fell on an all too familiar form.

“Well well well.” The shadow scoffed. “Please, don’t get up.”

“Leave me, demon.” Sabre tried to rise but could not.

“Not this time. You seem bent on living this false life and you refuse to listen to reason, so I’m going to have to do it for you I suppose.” The shadow grew in size and attacked, wrapping Sabre’s body in darkness. Downstairs, Twilight’s work halted as she heard him scream. She dropped her books and ran upstairs with Spike, forcing the door open.

“Sabre!?” She saw him standing calmly by the window. “Sabre, are you okay? Please, say something.” Sabre turned, bearing a sinister smile. “Sabre…” Without word he fired a blast of magic that left her limp on the floor.

“Hey, what are you doing!?” Spike ran in front of his fallen friend. Sabre did not answer; he merely fired again and blew out the window, taking off into the sky. “Twilight!” He shook her, but she didn’t move. “I… I have to get Princess Celestia.” He ran downstairs and began writing a letter, he frantically scribbled what had happened and sent it off. As it dissipated, he heard the front door open.

“Howdy, Twilight.” Applejack called as she entered with the others.

“Applejack, Twilight is hurt!” Spike ran to them.

“What? Where is she?” She asked.

“Upstairs.” He led them up to Sabre’s room where they found her on the floor.

“Twi!” Rainbow Dash fell to Twilight’s side and cradled her.

“What in the world happened, Spike?” Rarity asked.

“It… it was Sabre.” He said shallowly.

“Sabre?” Fluttershy gasped. “It couldn’t have been.”

“I watched him do it, Fluttershy. He came up to sleep and we heard him scream, when we came up he just turned and blasted her before heading out the window.”

“I… I cannot believe this.” Rarity inspected the wrecked window.

“That slippery devil.” Applejack growled. “I can’t believe he bamboozled us.”

“What are you talking about?” Fluttershy asked.

“Ain’t it obvious!?” She barked. “He was just trying to get close to us.”

“I wrote to the Princess and told her to come.” Spike hopped up on Rarity’s back.

“We’re going after him.” Applejack hoisted Twilight onto her back and headed downstairs. The girls followed, save Pinkie Pie who looked to the window; her mane had gone flat and she stared blankly into the sky.

“Pinkie! Let’s move!” Rainbow Dash stuck her head back in the door.

“Sabre wouldn’t do this… would he?” She asked with teary eyes.

“I don’t know.” She sighed. “But right now we have to go after him if we want answers.” Pinkie finally followed and the girls headed into town; along the way they found terrified ponies and destroyed property. When they reached the clock tower they came upon Sabre, he was walking unsurely and randomly destroying whatever he passed.

“Sabre!” Applejack shouted. “You rat!”

“Please Sabre, stop this.” Fluttershy pleaded. “This isn’t like you.”

“Indeed. Please talk to us, dear.” Rarity implored, he ignored them and continued his rampage.

“Dang it!” Rainbow Dash flew over to him. “Sabre!” As she neared him, a wall of shadow rose and blocked her; red eyes appeared in its depths and she was forced back by a powerful magic.

“This isn’t getting us anywhere.” Applejack set Twilight down. “Spike, keep an eye on Twilight. I’m going in.”

“Applejack, no.” Spike grabbed her leg. “He’s out of control, there’s no telling what he’ll do.”

“Well what the hay do y’all want me to do?” She asked in frustration.

“Sabre!” Celestia’s voice boomed above them. She and Luna swooped down and stood firmly before him.

“Princess.” Applejack whispered, having never heard such anger in her voice before.

“What is the meaning of this!?” She stepped forward. “You dare strike down Twilight and attack Ponyville! After all you have said and done are you throwing it away for the sake of such villainous ways!”

“Speak!” Luna commanded.

“Villainous ways? Bah!” He finally spoke, but in a vastly different voice. “Sabre doesn’t have a cruel bone in his body.” He turned with an arrogant smirk and infernal eyes. “He always was his mother’s son.”

“Sombra.” Celestia uttered breathlessly.

“It has been a while, your highness.” He approached them. “Even longer since I’ve had hooves on which to stand, I have to admit I’m out of practice.”

“How can this be!?” Celestia demanded. “What have you done to Sabre!?”

“Sabre is of my flesh and blood. I am merely taking it back.” He laughed. “You see, the first time you and your intrepid sister banished me you robbed me of my physical form and left me a creature of the shadows. It took me ages to regain enough strength to return, but I do not make the same mistake twice. I knew you would pursue me again, so before I set myself on the Crystal Empire once more I took the liberty of returning home and poisoning Sabre’s living shadow with an untraceable amount of my own essence. Call it a bit of insurance; and seeing as how Cadence, her betrothed and your little team here interfered with more resilience than I anticipated, my plan seems to have paid off.” He unfurled his new wings. “I had grown fearful though, my son was too powerful to overtake. Fortunately, you all weakened him enough during your fight for my essence to begin growing in strength. After that it was only a matter of time. I have been keeping him up a night, weakening him further to the point where I could overtake his will. Now, with this superior body, I will be invincible! All of Equestria will fall before me!” He leapt into the air and hovered above them. “I shall see you all soon, enjoy what time you have left.” His laughter echoed across all of Ponyville as he flew away.

“This is unthinkable.” Celestia looked to her sister.

“It seems Sombra had this planned out from the very beginning; and with Sabre’s body at his disposal he is indeed even more powerful than ever.”

“Princesses?” Rarity called their attention. “What do we do?” The sisters sat silent, for they already knew the answer and what reaction it would bring.

“Uhhh.” Twilight began to stir.

“Twilight!” Applejack helped her up. “Easy now, girl.”

“Sabre… Sabre!” She lurched forward but ran into Celestia’s leg. “Princess?”

“Twilight, are you alright?” Celestia knelt at her side.

“I guess. What’s going on? Sabre attacked me.” She recalled.

“No child, ‘twas not Sabre.” Luna informed. “Sombra has taken possession of him.”

“What!?” Twilight gasped.

“It is true.” Celestia set her wing to her.

“We have to go help him!” Twilight struggled to stand upright.

“Isn’t there something we can do?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“We… have no choice but to…” Celestia looked away as she could not finish.

“No!” Fluttershy ran to her. “There has to be another way!”

“We are sorry.” Luna took over. “But we cannot allow Sombra to roam free, especially with all of Sabre’s power at his command; and we must strike now before he masters that power.

“I can’t believe this.” Pinkie Pie started to cry and Rarity went to console her.

“Fluttershy is right.” Twilight looked up at Celestia. “There has to be a way to separate them.”

“I know not how, Twilight; and we haven’t the time to seek an alternative. He will no doubt return to his castle in Blackhoof Valley, we must go there and end this. Believe me, I take no joy in this.” Twilight too began to cry and Celestia coddled her to her breast.

“I shall go ahead to the Crystal Empire to inform Shining Armor and Princess Cadence.” Luna said as she took to the air. “Follow quickly, sister.” She flew off at top speed.

“Luna is right, we must leave quickly.” Celestia left Twilight and stood. “I will ensure your passage on the next train.” She flew towards the station.

“I’m sorry I accused him so quickly.” Applejack looked over the others. “Should have known better.”

“It’s alright.” Twilight dried her eyes. “But I’m not going to let them hurt Sabre, I’ll think of something by the time we get there.”

“We know you will, egghead.” Rainbow Dash smiled as best she could and rustled her mane. “You always do.”

“Let’s get to the station then.” Applejack ushered them along. They met with Celestia who commandeered the train under royal order and instructed the engineer to get them to the Crystal Empire and fast as he could; she flew ahead of them to catch up with Luna as the girls set out. The trip, although faster, seemed longer. No one spoke and Twilight spent the entire time wracking her brain to find a way to help Sabre. When they disembarked, they found Shining Armor and the three Princesses waiting for them along with several members of the Crystal Guard.

“Sis.” Shining Armor went to his sister who hugged onto him with heavy eyes. “I’m so sorry.”

“Thanks, brother.”

“We must be off.” Luna approached them. “We haven’t much time.”

“Alright, Princess Luna. We’re ready.” Twilight nodded. Under the lead of the Princesses they traveled back to Blackhoof Valley. Keeping a quick pace, they reached the forgotten kingdom in half the time. As they came upon the castle they found four shadow copies of Sabre standing at the entrance, their march halted as Sombra’s voice reverberated all around them.

“I haven’t even had time to tidy up yet, Princesses.”

“Silence!” Celestia commanded. “We have come to put an end to your evil.”

“Is that so?” His laugh echoed as the Sabre clones charged at them. Twilight, Luna, Celestia and Cadence combined their magic and quickly dispelled the inferior doppelgangers. The doors to the castle began to open and a chilled wind blew from the entryway. “Very well, do come in.” They pressed on and headed for the castle’s center, there they found the possessed Sabre seated at the broken throne. “Welcome.”

“Release Sabre!” Twilight fearlessly approached.

“We are one now.” He said confidently. “Sabre is no longer here.”

“I will make you pay for this, Sombra.” Celestia stood at her side.

“Doubtful.” He rose. “Sabre could have easily defeated you the last time, he was holding back greatly for he didn’t truly wish to harm you. He was barely using half his power.” The statement brought dread to the group. “I will not hold back. You will fail.”

“Enough!” Luna leapt into the air. “I will see you fall this day, Sombra.”

“Ha! Let me show you the true power of shadow magic!” He rose from the ground and formed a larger body of pure shadow; he encased himself in it like armor and stood tall before them. “Here is one Sabre withheld from you. Shadow Acus, Verberare!” A storm of black needles began launching from every arrant shadow in the room. The Princesses raised barriers to protect the group as everyone ran in separate directions to surround Sombra. Celestia joined Luna in the air and the sisters let loose their magic upon him, bombarding him with scattered blasts. The giant stallion was hardly phased and spread his wings; with a heavy flap he knocked the sisters from the sky and into the rear wall. Shining Armor charged in and coated his body in a magical shield; he collided with Sombra’s leg and buckled him to his knee. A lasso caught his other hoof as he staggered and Applejack, with Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash’s help, pulled him the rest of the way down. “Pests!” He turned his head to them. “Shadow Ligamentum!” A spray of black webbing left his mouth and headed for them, Shining Armor rushed over and fended the inky net with a barrier of his own.

“Sister, Cadence… to me!” Celestia returned to the air and they were quick to her side. Luna and Cadence channeled their own power into Celestia, amplifying the intensity of her solar magic. Celestia fired a focused beam into Sombra’s back and managed to crack his shadow armor. Before the attack could reach his physical body, Sombra cancelled the spell and flew back to a safe distance.

“Well done.” Sombra mocked as he used Sabre’s ability to divide into three. “Do try to keep up now. Shadow Celeritas!” The three Sombras began speeding around the room, easily evading the incoming attacks. “Shadow Caestus!” The forelegs of the three forms encased in hardened shadow, in the dizzying flurry he landed severe blows to his opponents that brought them to the ground. He fused back into one with a hearty laugh and calmly walked to the fallen Celestia. “A valiant effort, Princess.”

“We… are not bested yet.” She struggled to rise.

“I fear you are, Princess. Don’t worry, Equestria will be in good hooves.” He lunged but stopped dead in his tracks as he was upon her. He reeled back and wailed in agony, thrashing and stamping his hooves.

“No!” Sabre’s voice rang out. “I will not allow this, father!”

“Sabre.” Celestia smiled.

“You shall not use me to commit these acts!” Sabre proclaimed.

“How can you still resist me!?” Sombra’s voice returned. “No matter, you may be my son… but you are weak!”

“I am not weak!” Sabre retorted. “You are the one who could not accept his end as a proud stallion, clinging to life like a parasite.”

“You dare speak to me that way!” Sombra roared. “You had the power to rule, had you stood at my side that day we would have taken the Crystal Empire.”

“I do not share your bloodlust, father!”

“Do you forget what they did to my wife!?” Sombra asked. “Your mother!?”

“Nay!” Sabre shouted. “I shall never forget, but that was over a thousand years ago; there is nopony left to take vengeance on. Even so, I know that is not what she would have wanted. Your wrought your own destruction, and even if it means my own I shall not let you harm those I care for! Shadow Vincula!” He summoned his dark chains and took fierce hold of his own legs, tail, chest and throat. His breath grew heavy and erratic but he managed to focus on Celestia. “Mi… milady. You must strike now, I cannot hold him long.”

“Sabre.” She rose and looked at him with sunken eyes.

“It is alright.” He managed to smile. “I accept this for the sake of Equestria… for my friends.”

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight limped to her side. “Listen, there is another way. You and Luna used the elements of harmony to turn Discord to stone, we may not have them physically but we have their power inside of us. Use us as a focus and recreate that spell.”

“Twilight, doing so could put all your lives at risk.” Celestia eyed her worriedly.

“We don’t care!” Rainbow Dash called out. “If it means protecting Sabre, we’ll do it.”

“You bet!” Applejack nodded.

“Most defiantly!” Rarity joined them.

“Count me in!” Pinkie smiled confidently.

“Me too.” Fluttershy said boldly.

“Very well.” Celestia nodded. “Luna!”

“Sister.” Luna flew to her side.

Celestia felt tears in her eyes as she looked upon the struggling Sabre. “Sabre… I am sorry.”

“We all do what we must, milady.” Sabre grunted as he felt his father fighting back, he looked to the girls and saw the sorrow in their eyes. “My friends, do not weep. You gave me a second chance at life… and although our time together was short, the memoires you have given me and the joy you have shown me far outweigh the pain of my past. Know that I shall always be at your sides.” He smiled. “Now hurry, my father will not be suppressed for much longer.” The girls stood behind the sisters and braced themselves.

“Focus your hearts on the element for which you stand!” Celestia said as her horn lit up. “We shall draw from your power.” The girls closed their eyes and focused on their goal, they were enveloped by the sisters’ magic and lifted from the ground. Their cutie marks radiated and a rainbow of magic flowed into the horns of the Princesses. They cast the ancient spell and Sabre was flooded over with light, as it caressed his body his hooves began to petrify.

“No!” Sombra’s voice returned. “Stop this!” The stone worked its way up to his chest. “AHHHhhhh…” Sombra’s cry slowly faded.

“I thank you, my friends.” Sabre spoke once more, spreading his wings proudly as they turned to stone.

“Sabre!” Twilight hobbled over to him. “I promise you I will find a way to save you. I won’t rest until you’re free from him!” He looked down to her and smiled tranquilly, with a sound nod he held his head high as it too turned to stone. The room fell silent as the battle ended and everyone stood idle, hardly feeling victorious. Pinkie Pie walked over to Sabre with dampened eyes and sat at his heel; she sniffled and set her head to his side. Twilight looked back at Celestia who wept with her sister’s wing over her. Cadence rested her head on Shining Armor’s shoulder and he nuzzled her as they sat in solemn silence.

“Twilight?” Applejack went to her. “You okay?”

“No.” She said with pained honesty. “But I will keep my promise.”

“We’ll help any way we can, darling.” Rarity assured, glancing back to see Fluttershy crying into Rainbow Dash’s mane as she hugged her.

Celestia had Sabre taken back to Canterlot and he was placed at the center of the garden. A week went by in mourning and the girls kept to themselves, all trying to return to their normal lives. Twilight had holed herself up in the library. Heartbroken, she went through book after book trying to find the answer she sought. Spike did his best to console her but had little luck reaching her. One afternoon, he heard a knock at the door and went to answer it; he found only a pink envelope on the doorstep and took it inside. He returned to the study and showed it to Twilight.

“This just came.” He set it down in front of her but she ignored him. “Twilight, please. I hate seeing you like this. I know you want to help Sabre but you’re driving yourself crazy.”

Twilight let out a deep sigh. “I’m sorry, Spike.” She smiled and pulled him over into a hug. “Thank you for being here for me.”

“Always.” He nuzzled her cheek.

“So, what is this anyway?” She levitated the envelope and opened it. Inside was an invitation to Canterlot for that night at eight o’clock sharp. “Pinkie?”

“Must be.” Spike scratched his head.

“She probably feels bad that we’ve all been apart since what happened.” Twilight stood, stretching her stiff legs. “We’ll go, I need to see my friends.”

“That’s the spirit.” Spike cheered.

They flew to Canterlot that night and found Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy talking in front of the castle.

“Twilight.” Fluttershy went to her as she landed. “It’s really good to see you.”

“You too, all of you.” Twilight joined their circle. “I’m sorry I’ve been so distant.”

“We understand, dear.” Rarity nodded. “We all miss him.”

“Any luck finding anything?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“No.” She shook her head longingly.

“Well hey, how about we go see what this is all about.” Applejack led them inside where they discovered a pink arrow. They followed it to another and another until they were at the garden. There they found Pinkie Pie, setting out party favors on a long table that sat across from Sabre. She smiled brightly as she noticed their arrival.

“Hey girls, long time no see.” She waved.

“Hasn’t been that long.” Rainbow Dash looked over the setting.

“Long enough.” Pinkie Pie said surely. “I know everypony is sad… I am too. But being sad isn’t going to help, so I came here to sit with Sabre.” She pointed to him. “See, he’s smiling. If he can then so can we, that’s why I wanted to throw him a party to let him know we’re still here and we’re still rooting for him.”

“That’s… the best idea I’ve ever heard.” Twilight smiled. “Thank you, Pinkie.”

“Well come on then, let's party!” She hit the music and under Sabre’s silent smile they relaxed and enjoyed a much needed outlet. They laughed, danced and ate all while recalling happier times; soon Princess Celestia joined them having heard the festivities. Their hearts lifted and they left a cupcake at Sabre’s hooves. After that night the girls visited him regularly; this went on for two months as they sat by him and talked of what was going on in their lives and in Ponyville. Applejack and Pinkie Pie brought him treats and Rarity made a scarf for him. Fluttershy planted flowers around him and Rainbow Dash always made sure the weather was nice above him. Twilight had the most trouble though, she visited him as the others did and spent time with her friends but still dedicated herself to finding a spell to bring him back. After going over all her own books and consulting Zecora, she found herself practically living in the Canterlot library. After searching for so long she started to lose hope.

“Ugh!” She slammed the book closed and opened yet another.

“Well, I had heard you moved in.” A familiar voice hailed.

“Discord.” Twilight looked up to see him floating before her.

“I also heard about the dashing young stallion, I know how he feels." He frowned. "We have a lot in common now.”

“You are nothing like Sabre.” Twilight said firmly as she returned to her book.

“That’s not very nice.” He huffed and went to the window. “Not very friendly at all.”

“If you were really serious about being friends you would have helped us before.” She retorted.

“Celestia asked me but my power would have been of no use. My magic, although obviously great, cannot affect the shadows.”

“Uh huh.” Twilight shook her head.

“Well, I’m here now; and I can tell you that if you spend any more time with your nose in a book it’s going to develop a permanent crease.”

“Look, if you’re not going to help me look for a spell then just go away.” She shooed him off.

“Tsk tsk, you’re really broken up about all this aren’t you.” He leaned in close to her. “Was he your very special somepony?”

“Discord!” She slammed her hoof down on the book so hard it tore the page. She looked at it in frustration and began to cry. “I’ve looked everywhere, read every book twice… there’s nothing. Nothing.” She sobbed and set her hooves to her eyes. Even the flippant Discord could see her pain and he sighed.

“Twilight, let me give you some advice.” He walked about her. “Magic is an art, an art that must be learned. Just as Celestia taught you there was somepony that taught Sabre. Even Sombra himself had a teacher at one point.” Twilight looked down to see him on the page of her book; he took out a needle and thread and began sewing the page back together.

“What are you getting at?” She asked as she wiped her eyes.

“My point, my dear, is perhaps you are merely looking in the wrong school.”

“The wrong… school?” She absorbed his words. “That’s it!” She leapt from the desk. “There’s no information here because they were never any shadow magicians in Canterlot. The library at Blackhoof Castle, Sabre’s mother must have had a book on shadow magic. The answer has to be there!” She galloped for the door but stopped. “Discord.” She turned back to see him sitting on the desk.

“Mmmhmm?” He eyed her.

“Thank you.” She smiled.

“Well, what are fair-weather friends for. Let’s just not make a habit of this; I do have a reputation to uphold.” With a sly grin he vanished. Twilight hurried to find Celestia who was overseeing plans for the upcoming Gala.

“Princess Celestia!’ She burst into the room.

“Twilight, what is the matter?” She asked, quite startled.

“I need to go back to Blackhoof Castle. I’ve been looking in all the wrong places, if there is a book on shadow magic it’s there.”

“That is indeed a possibility.” Celestia ceased her work and went to her. “Very well, I shall send word to Cadence immediately.”

“Thank you, I’m going to get ready and head there now.” She ran from the room as quickly as she had entered. Twilight returned to the library and told Spike of her plan and that he should inform the others as soon as possible. She packed what she needed and hurried to make the next train. When she once again found herself at the Crystal Empire, she rushed to the castle to meet with Cadence. She and Shining Armor awaited her as the guards showed her in.

“Cadence, brother, it’s good to see you.”

“How are you, Twilight?” Cadence hugged her. “I know you’ve been upset ever since what happened to Sabre.”

“I’m okay.” She nodded. “Better now that I have a new lead.”

“I’ll be going with you.” Shining Armor informed. “Sombra may be sealed away but that doesn’t mean the castle isn’t dangerous.”

“Thank you.” She smiled warmly.

“I’ll get my things. Meet me outside when you’re ready.” He left and Cadence looked over Twilight proudly.

“You girls never cease to amaze me. You take on such challenges and face such dangers that many would never dare.”

“Well for better or worse… we’re kind of used to it now.” Twilight laughed.

“Be careful.” Cadence warned with a concerned smile.

“With my brother there, I’m not worried.” She hurried after Shining Armor; they met at the castle gates and started their long trek back to Blackhoof Valley.

“So what is it we’re looking for again, Twily?”

“A book on shadow magic. Sabre’s shadow is almost alive and Sombra infected it like a virus. I need to find some type of spell that can purge Sombra’s essence and separate them.”

“I see.” He saw the determined look in her eyes. “Sabre… he’s pretty special to you isn’t he?”

“Ugh, not you too.” She furrowed her brows at him.

“Hey, I’m your brother. It’s my job to be nosy about these things.” He grinned.

“Sabre is, well… all I know right now is that I want him back. We all do. He’s suffered enough.”

“Alright, Twily.” He left it at that and changed the subject. They pressed on and camped before they reached the colder parts of the region. The next day they kept a brisk pace to the castle; Twilight immediately began looking for the library while Shining Armor ran a perimeter search. After being satisfied that all was well, he followed the echoes of falling books until he found his sister. “Wow.” He looked over the massive archive. “This place is huge.”

“Which is good news and bad news.” Twilight huffed. “This is going to take a while and these books are ancient; some of them written in languages I can’t even read.”

“Well, I’m going to check the other rooms.” He started for the door. “There might be some clues elsewhere.”

“Sabre’s mother was the shadow magician.” She relayed. “The Queen’s chamber would be the best place to start.”

“Right.” Shining Armor left her to her work and began searching the rest of the castle. He eventually found the dilapidated boudoir of the Queen. He lit the room with his horn and began rummaging through what remained. Finding little, he moved on to the next room which appeared to be a nursery. On the wall he saw a painting of the Queen with what must have been a newborn Sabre. Looking about he saw an ornate crib, hoof crafted with jewels inlaid in the frame. “They don’t make them like this anymore.” He inspected it further and found notches cut into the bottom. “What’s this?” He knelt down and saw rope within the notches; flipping the crib over he discovered a book lashed to the bottom. He levitated it up and started flipping through the pages. “A diary?” He picked a random page and read. “Sabre is progressing wonderfully in his training and he is proving to have a natural adeptness for magic. I have been forced to train him in secret now for my husband grows jealous that I show our son and not him the power of these arts. I love my husband dearly but I know him too well to entrust such power to him. One day, Sabre will rule and I know that with his gentle nature he will make a fine King.” Shining Armor closed the book in thought. He returned to the library and found his sister reading from a tall stack of books by lantern light. “How’s it coming, sis?”

“Nothing so far.” She shook her head. “I mean, this place is a treasure trove as far as I’m concerned but I can’t find anything on shadow magic. Did you find anything?”

“I found his mother’s diary.” He set the book before her.

“Really?” She closed the book she was reading and took up the diary.

“Yeah.” He sat beside her as she opened it.

“This might be helpful.” She began reading.

“Well, I’ll let you look at it. I’m going to heat up some of the rations for us to eat.” He patted her back as he went to find a safe place to prepare the food.

“Okay.” She nodded and delved into the pages. About a half hour later, Shining Armor retuned with dinner.

“Here you go, not exactly fine dining.” He laughed.

“Its fine, brother. Thank you.” She stretched and rubbed her eyes.

“Anything interesting?”

“Plenty. Sabre’s mother was an amazing mare, I can see why he holds her in the light that he does. But listen to this…” She paused to take a bite. “Sabre has learned much but I have shown him all I can for a colt of his age. I long to be able to teach him more but I fear that my time may be running short. The Society of Light has learned of my true identity after all these years and they will surely do their utmost to finish their work. Should I fall, I have ensured that Sabre will have what he needs to finish his training. And as I have, it will always watch over him.”

“What does that mean?” He asked.

“I don’t think the book I’m looking for is in the library.” Twilight closed the diary. “She must have hidden it from everypony, even Sombra.

“It would have to be somewhere that was familiar to Sabre and where only he would think to look.

“As I have… it will always watch over him.” Twilight rose. “Where did you find this?”

“The nursery.”

“Let me see.” Twilight followed him back to the room and she began looking around. “Watch over him.” She repeated as she scanned the area. Her eyes soon fell upon the painting of Sabre and his mother; she walked up and inspected it closer.

“What is it, sis?”

“There’s no dust on this painting.” She noted.

“Huh, I never noticed.” He pulled it down and checked the wall behind it. “Nothing unusual.”

“No, she’s smarter than that.” Twilight took the painting and used her magic to pull the frame off. “Ah!”

“What?” He looked over her shoulder.

“Look at this.” She turned the portrait over; the back of the canvas used was covered in torn pages from a book.”

“Ha, awesome job.” He smiled proudly.

“Let’s check this out.” They hurried back to the library and Twilight began removing the pages and laying them out. They were numbered, no doubt for Sabre, and once she had them reassembled they formed a hundred page volume. “Amazing.” They sat there for hours reading over the text, it covered basic magic and soon branched into beginning shadow magic. Near the end of the book, Twilight’s eyes lit up as she saw what she was looking for. “Shadow Purgo.” She mumbled to herself as she read.

“What kind of spell is that?” Shining Armor asked.

“Shadow magicians use their shadow as a weapon.” Twilight explained. “This spell acts to cleanse the shadow should it ever become corrupted by outside forces.”

“Great.”

“We need to get back!” She quickly stood but her brother halted her.

“Twilight, its dark and we haven’t slept.” He laid his hoof to her shoulder. “Rest for the night and we’ll head out at daybreak.”

“You’re right.” She calmed herself. “Okay.”

“You did great, sis.” He praised.

“Thanks.” She smiled and hugged him. They slept through the rest of the night and woke with the sun. They traveled back to the Crystal Empire and let Cadence know of their findings; not staying for long, Twilight boarded the train and headed back for Canterlot. She rushed to Princess Celestia and asked her to send word to Spike to bring the girls to Canterlot while she studied and prepared the spell. That night, the friends once again gathered in the garden with high hopes that Twilight would succeed.

“I am so excited!” Pinkie Pie paced.

“Twilight has been busting her flank for so long now.” Applejack sighed. “I sure hope this works.”

“I have the utmost confidence in her.” Rarity brushed off her friend’s worry.

“Alright girls.” Twilight said as she entered with Celestia. “Let’s get our friend back.”

“We’re with you, Twi.” Rainbow Dash cheered.

Twilight went to Sabre and looked up into his frozen eyes. “Sabre, I’m here to keep my promise.” She said silently. Twilight’s horn lit up and her eyes turned white, she lifted into the air and powerful magic surged throughout her body. She opened her wings and threw them forward, sending a wave of light over Sabre. The entire garden was illuminated and the others were forced to look away. As the light died down, an exhausted Twilight dropped to the ground. She quickly looked up to see Sabre but saw only a statue. The group sat quiet for several minutes but nothing happened. “That… that can’t be. I know I did it right.” She went to him. “Sabre!” She called but he did not move. The girls lowered their heads and Celestia went to Twilight’s side.

“Twilight.” She laid her wing over her. “I am sorry. You put forth a remarkable effort and I am so proud of you.” Twilight broke down and cried into Celestia’s wing.

“Twilight.” Fluttershy went to her. “Sabre knows you did your very best.”

“C’mon sugar cube, you need to rest.” Applejack joined them. “Let’s get you home.”

“No!” Twilight went to Sabre’s side and lay at his hooves. “I tried to combine the cleanse spell with the spell to free him from stone… something must have gone wrong with the interplay. I’m not going anywhere until I fix this.”

“Be reasonable, dear.” Rarity approached her. “We all want him back but you are only hurting yourself now.” Twilight lowered her head and closed her eyes, tears squeezing from them as she did.

“Twi.” Rainbow Dash started over but Celestia stood before them, she shook her head and asked them to leave her be for now. The girls reluctantly left and returned to Ponyville without their friend.

For two days Twilight did not leave Sabre’s side, Celestia checked on her often and made sure she ate to keep her strength up. On the third night though, she felt this had gone on long enough and asked her friends to come take her home.

“I am sorry to ask you here so late.” Celestia sighed as she escorted the girls to the garden.

“It’s okay, Princess.” Applejack smiled halfheartedly.

“I know we joked about it but… I never realized how deeply she cared for him.” Rarity admitted. “I’ve never seen her like this before; I just feel terrible for the poor dear.” As they came upon the garden’s center they stopped abruptly.

“No way.” Rainbow Dash whispered.

“Sabre.” Fluttershy smiled wide.

Sabre did indeed sit before them, Twilight was fast asleep at his side and his wing was laid over her. “Hello, my friends; it seems fate has smiled upon me once more.” He quietly greeted.

“This is truly a miracle.” Celestia stepped forward.

“I can’t believe it.” Pinkie Pie bounced up and down as quietly as possible.

Applejack knelt before Twilight and tapped her horn. “Wake up, sugar cube.” Her eyes slowly opened and she focused in on her smiling face.

“Applejack.” Twilight frowned. “I told you I’m not…” She stopped at the familiar warmth against her. Noticing the gray wing over her she quickly looked up to see Sabre gazing down at her with a gentle smile.

“Good evening, Lady Twilight. I hadn’t the heart to wake you.”

“Sabre!” She leapt up and threw her hooves around his neck. “Oh Sabre! You’re okay!”

“Indeed, milady.” He put his hoof around her and rested his head atop hers.

“Awwww.” Pinkie giggled.

“So the spell worked?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes, just not in the way Lady Twilight might have hoped.” He nodded.

“But, what about Sombra?” Twilight sat back and looked him over worriedly.

“Fear not, milady.” He calmed her. “My father no longer poisons my body. Your spell did in fact force him from me.”

“But you didn’t turn back to normal.” She glanced up at the statue that still stood tall and intact.

“True, I remained trapped, but with my father gone my strength began to return. It took some time but eventually I was able to trade places with my shadow and free myself from that stone prison.” He rose and went to the others, bowing before Celestia. “Lady Celestia.”

“Sabre, words cannot express my happiness.” Celestia smiled. “Having already endured the pain of banishing my sister I was wrought with grief over having to imprison you like that. I was fortunate beyond measure that Twilight and her friends were able to return Luna to me; and now, to have you returned to us safely as well… it is a blessing without compare.”

“Yeah, Twilight.” Rainbow Dash patted her shoulder. “You sure came through, you never gave up. Maybe if we had magical ability like yours we could have been a bigger help.”

“You saved my life just as much as she, milady.” Sabre interjected.

“What?” Applejack looked to him in confusion. “How?”

“Trapped in that stone, I was locked in an endless battle for control with my father; his will is great and I feared that I would lose. But even though I could not move, I was still very much aware. I heard every word you all spoke to me, shared in every story and felt every tear. It was knowing that you were all at my side that gave me the strength to hold out against him. I owe you all my thanks.”

“He’s right.” Twilight nodded. “I was ready to give up more than once, but having you all there to keep me going, having your faith in my ability… I wouldn’t have been able to do this without you all.” She started to cry. “Thank you. I love you all so much.” She went to her friends and they hugged onto her with wet eyes.

“Lady Celestia, this reunion comes at a price.” Sabre said grimly. “Although I am free, so is my father. I know not where his essence went but he will surely return to exact his revenge. Having spent so much time in my body he has also managed to usurp a deal of my power, he will be a bigger threat than ever.”

“Then we shall face him as one.” Celestia vowed.

“Right now though, I think we could all use some rest.” Applejack smiled and patted Twilight’s cheek. “We can meet up tomorrow and decide what’s next.”

“Sounds good.” Twilight agreed, a light yawn slipping through her lips.

“Then let us return to Ponyville.” Sabre lay before Applejack and Rarity. “I shall gladly fly you home.”

“Oh my.” Rarity smiled and climbed onto his back.

“Can we go a bit slower this time?” Applejack asked as she seated herself behind Rarity.

“Of course.” He stood and spread his wings.

“I call Rainbow Dash!” Pinkie jumped onto her back.

“Ow!” Rainbow Dash groaned. “Take it easy, will ya?”

“Goodnight and rest well.” Celestia waved as they flew off into the night. Sabre dropped Rarity and Applejack off at their homes; he then doubled back to the library where Twilight awaited his return. As he entered he found Twilight and Spike doing some clean up.

“I was only gone for a few days, Spike.” Twilight griped as she began setting books back on the shelf. “What in Equestria were you doing to make such a mess?”

“Sorry, Twilight. I was trying to keep things in order, honest.” He saw Sabre come in and ran over. “Sabre, welcome back.”

“Sir Spike, it is good to see you again.” He greeted.

“Did you get Rarity and Applejack home okay?” Twilight asked.

“Indeed.”

“Alright. We’ll finish cleaning this up tomorrow, Spike.” Twilight set the broom and dustpan aside. “It’s late.”

“Okay.” He yawned. “See you guys in the morning.” He waddled up the stairs and into Twilight’s room.

“Listen Sabre, I know we’ve got a lot of work to do and usually by now I’d have at least two checklists made up.” She sighed and sat by the fire. “But… can we just sit here for a while?”

“I would like nothing else, Lady Twilight.” Sabre smiled and lay at her side. Twilight was against him in an instant and rested her head on his shoulder.

“Welcome home, Sabre.” She smiled contently.

“It is welcome indeed, milady.” He wrapped his wing around her and in mere moments she was asleep.

Twilight awoke the next morning in her bed. She sat up and saw the bright afternoon sun outside the window; it was the first good night’s sleep she had since their battle against Sombra and she felt refreshed. She went downstairs and found Spike finishing cleaning up with Sabre.

“Good morning, Lady Twilight.” Sabre tipped his head.

“Morning, Twilight.” Spike set aside his broom. “How are you feeling?”

“Better, thanks.” She nodded. “And thank you for cleaning up.”

“Nothing your number one assistant couldn’t handle.” He went into the next room and Twilight eyed Sabre shyly.

“Hey, I just wanted to say sorry for being so clingy last night.” Her hoof twisted into the floor.

“I did not mind, milady. You went to great lengths to keep your promise and I will forever be in your debt. Besides, being at your side was a much welcome change from being encased in stone.” He noted with a smile.

“Glad to hear.” She laughed. “Well, let’s round up the girls and see where we stand.” She told Spike they were leaving and then set out for Rarity’s. As they entered the shop they found all the girls sitting about and eating snacks.

“There she is.” Applejack waved. “How ya feeling, sugar cube?”

“Great, didn’t think you’d all be here though.” Twilight went to the table and took one of the scones.

“Well we knew you’d come to get us sooner or later.” Rainbow Dash flew over to her. “So we just cut out the middle mare and all came here.”

“And how are you, Sabre?” Rarity asked.

“I feel a great weight lifted from me now that my father no longer taints my flesh.”

“That’s good to hear.” Fluttershy went to his side. “We were all so worried.”

“So what now?” Pinkie Pie asked as she spun on one of Rarity’s stools. “We don’t know where that big meanie Sombra ran off to.”

“If I may.” Sabre called their attention. “With the power he has siphoned from me added to his own, I am no longer a match for him. If we are to have a chance I must gain an edge.”

“How can we do that?” Twilight asked.

“There is one thing, an artifact.” He explained. “An amulet to be precise, one that grants its wearer untold power.”

“You mean… the Alicorn amulet?” She asked.

“You know of it, milady?” Sabre asked in return, rather surprised.

“Too well I’m afraid.” Twilight sighed.

“Some windbag named Trixie got a hold of it.” Rainbow Dash detailed. “She stole it to try and get revenge on Twilight for outing her as a fraud.”

“Yeah.” Applejack continued. “It gave her the power to turn all of Ponyville upside down.”

“You can’t use it, Sabre.” Fluttershy shook her head. “It’s cursed.”

“Yeah, you’ll go all loopy.” Pinkie twirled her hoof beside her head and crossed her eyes.

“She became a force to be reckoned with.” Rarity added. “If you use it you’ll become just as bad as Sombra.”

“I appreciate your concern, but the amulet is not cursed.” Sabre stepped into their midst. “It was forged with shadow magic. The amulet is a powerful focus for shadow magicians, increasing their power tenfold. However, if one who is not adept in shadow magic wears it they will be overtaken by the unfamiliar power.”

“Incredible.” Twilight thought back to the incident with Trixie.

“I assure you, should I wear it I will not turn against you.” He promised. “It is, however, my only hope of standing against my father. Do you know where it is?”

“Our friend Zecora has it.” Twilight informed. “She lives in the Everfree Forest.”

“Then we must go to see her. I fear time is not on our side.”

“Okay, we’ll take you there.” Twilight nodded.

“Yay! Field trip to Zecora’s!” Pinkie hurried out the door. They traveled to the secluded hut in the forest and found the zebra mixing something in a cauldron in her yard. She saw the group and took great interest in the Alicorn in their company.

“Hi, Zecora.” Twilight waved.

“Welcome friends, what brings you here? Given your company, bad news I fear.” She responded in her typical verse.

“Unfortunately so, milady.” Sabre approached her. “My name is Sabre.”

“The shadow prince who seeks to atone, and whom my friends worked so hard to free from stone.” Her eyes ran over him. “Of you I have heard much, a powerful stallion with a gentle touch.”

“Indeed.” He nodded.

“We have a favor to ask, Zecora.” Twilight began. “We need the Alicorn amulet.” She saw a look of concern wash over the zebra’s face.

“That artifact has caused much pain. From using it, what do you hope to gain?” Zecora asked.

“We freed Sabre but also Sombra, his essence is out there somewhere and we know he’s going to come back.” Twilight recounted. “Sabre needs the amulet to have a chance at fighting him.”

“I see, and from its effects you will be free?” She looked to Sabre unsurely.

“I shall, milady.” Sabre nodded. “The amulet is a relic from the shadow magicians, of which I am the last. It shall not affect my mind as it does others.”

Zecora looked deep into his eyes and eventually smiled. “Your eyes are true, I doubt you’d lie. If my friends trust you, then so shall I.”

“Thank you, Zecora.” Twilight smiled up at Sabre.

“Indeed, your trust will not be misplaced.” Sabre assured.

Zecora went inside and retrieved the box which held the amulet; she gave it to Twilight and looked over the group. “You face great danger, take care my friends. Equestria would weep if you met your ends.”

“We will, Zecora.” Twilight nodded as she and Sabre returned to the others.

“Do you have it?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yes.”

“So what now?” Pinkie Pie inquired as they started back for Ponyville.

“I am afraid we wait, milady.” Sabre sighed.

“Wait for what?” Pinkie Pie cringed as a deafening roar echoed across the forest.

“For that?” Fluttershy shivered in place.

“What the hay was that?” Applejack turned back. As they idled, an immense shadow flew over them and headed for town.

“A dragon!” Rarity gasped.

“Let’s get back!” Twilight led them back through the forest, as they passed the tree line they heard another roar. Once near Ponyville, they could hear panicked screams and the long neck of the dragon could be seen towering above the dwellings.

“Oh no!” Rarity held her hoof to her mouth in horror.

“Worry not, I shall deal with this!” Sabre leapt into the sky and flew towards town as the girls ran after him. “Beast! Cease this assault at once!”

“Ah. There you are, my son.” The dragon turned, a familiar look in its eyes.

“Father.” Sabre halted. “What have you done?”

“I’ve found a suitable replacement body.” He smiled a sea of sharp teeth. “Seeing as you are against me, I will remove you from my path!” He sent a geyser of flame at his son, Sabre dove down to the girls and landed hard on the road before them.

“What’s going on?” Applejack asked.

“It is father, he has possessed that dragon.” Sabre quickly informed. “Milady, the amulet.”

“Right.” Twilight opened the box and Sabre levitated the Alicorn amulet around his neck. His eyes immediately went white and a powerful aura emanated from his body. “I’m heading to the library to notify Princess Celestia.” Twilight lifted off and sped home.

“My friends, please see to the townsfolk.” Sabre instructed.

“On it.” Rainbow Dash grabbed Fluttershy and flew to the square while Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rarity took care of the immediate area. Sabre returned to the sky and hovered before Sombra.

“Father!” Sabre called.

“Done running?” Sombra scoffed.

“Indeed, we end this now.”

“As you wish!” Again he blew flame.

“Shadow Praesepio!” Saber’s shadow raised to from an ornate shield, the flame bounced off its surface without effect. “Endless Night!” Hundreds of tendrils flew from the ambient shadows and began striking Sombra, forcing him to fall back.

“You should be far weaker by now.” He growled, soon spying the amulet around his neck. “I see, the Alicorn amulet. Impressive strategy, perhaps there is some of me in you after all.” He spread his wings. “It will do you no good, you may now match my power but in this body my strength is unmatched.” Sombra swung his tail around; Sabre landed on it and ran up its length, firing blasts from his horn as he did. “Your magic feels as benign as the rain!” Sombra reached out and tried to grasp his son; Sabre divided into three and began flying all about him. Amid the chaos, the girls managed to get everyone out of the area; as they convened in the shadow of the battle, Twilight too returned.

“Princess Celestia and Luna are on their way.” She informed as she touched down.

“Good to hear.” Applejack said through an exhausted breath. “They’re the only ones who can help now.” Back above, Sombra caught one of the duplicates in his jaws and dispelled it. The remaining two doubled back and flew in.

“Shadow Lanceae!” The hefty spear left his shadow but reflected off the tough scales.

“Try this!” Sombra fired concentrated magical energy from his eyes and swept the sky. The remaining copy was dispelled and Sabre landed on the roof of a home, he breathed heavily and Sombra began to laugh. “Done already?”

“This battle is far from over father.” He again took to the air. “Shadow Vincula!” Drawing upon the shadows of the buildings he brought up a massive chain and lashed it around Sombra’s neck. It began to retract and pulled him to the ground; Sabre flew above him and flared his wings wide. “Shadow Ungula!” He threw his hoof downward and his shadow formed a massive claw, it slammed down into Sombra’s back and cracked the ground beneath him. He did this again and again until Sombra threw his wings back and loosed a gust of wind that blew Sabre across the town and into the clock tower.

“Sabre!” Twilight cried as she and the others ran to the square. They reached the base of the tower just as Sabre freed himself from the damaged stone; he landed on the steeple and watched as his father reclaimed his footing and resumed his approach.

“Enough of this!” Sombra roared.

“I agree!” Celestia’s voice called out, she and Luna flew to Sabre’s side and held position around him.

“Lady Celestia, Lady Luna. Please take care, his strength is not to be underestimated.”

“Worry not, Sabre.” Luna smiled. “We were warriors long before we were Princesses.”

“How nice of you to come here.” Sombra bellowed. “It will save me the trip to Canterlot.”

“You will go no further, Sombra!” Celestia challenged as the three of them fired into his chest, the blast shook him and sent him staggering back.

“Fools!” He breathed a broad wave of fire that sent them in three separate directions. Luna and Sabre engaged him while Celestia landed across from the girls.

“Twilight.” She called.

“Yes, Princess.” Twilight galloped to her side.

“You must alter the spell you used to separate Sombra from Sabre to expel him from the dragon. We will keep him busy, so you must strike before he realizes what you are doing.”

“O…okay.” Twilight nodded.

“Please leave this to us.” Celestia looked over the others. “You must get to safety, there can be no other living things for him to possess.”

“Alright, Princess.” Applejack said reluctantly.

“Be careful, dear.” Rarity offered Twilight a smile as she ran after Applejack.

“Kick his butt!” Rainbow Dash winked as she, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie followed them.

Celestia returned to the fight while Twilight flew up to the clock tower. She watched the battle and swallowed hard as she began to channel her magic. Between Sombra’s claws, tail, fire and eye blasts; the three Alicorns were having trouble just keeping themselves from harm let alone counterattacking.

“Sabre!” Celestia flew alongside him.

“Milady?”

“Twilight is preparing to use the spell she used to free you. We need to hold him steady.”

“It shall be done.” He nodded as they rolled in the sky and back down at Sombra. “Shadow Acus, Verberare!” He let loose the needle storm from his shadow and focused on Sombra’s face, the sting of the projectiles stunned him while Luna flew to his back. She coated herself in her dark magic and threw her weight into the back of his neck; his head whipping forward where Celestia awaited.

“Behold, the light of the sun!” Celestia’s entire body emitted a blinding light at close range; Sombra howled and covered his eyes with his claws.

“Shadow Ungula!” Sabre brought the black claw up and into Sombra’s chin; his father reeled back and began to stagger.

Luna looped in the air and came down once more on Sombra’s chest. The blow sent him to the ground and all of Ponyville shook from the impact. “Sabre, hold him!”

“Yes, milady!” Sabre flew above the weakened Sombra. “Shadow Loculo!” Using all his power he encased his father’s body within his shadow, Sabre lifted him into the air and held him still.

“Twilight! Now!” Celestia called out. Twilight unleashed her spell and sent a wave of light out that bathed Sombra, as it passed through him they saw the shadowy form of the dark unicorn burst from the dragon’s back.

“No!” Sombra looked down at his former vessel. "Not like this... not again!"

“Father!” Sabre removed the Alicorn amulet and threw it at Sombra. Being comprised of shadows, and having no host form, he wailed as he was pulled into the artifact. “Shadow Loculo!” Sabre sent his shadow out and encapsulated the amulet. “Shadow Finis!” The shadow collapsed in on itself to an infinitesimal size, it quickly expanded again and returned to Sabre. As it did, countless particles of what was left of the amulet were scattered to the winds. Sabre sighed in relief as the threat of his father was finally brought to an end; he glanced back to see a weakened Twilight fall from the tower. “Lady Twilight!” He soared over and caught her on his back as she fell towards the ground; he landed gently in the square as the sisters joined him.

“Twilight.” Celestia nudged her cheek with her nose.

“P… Princess?” Her eyes fluttered open.

“Yes, my dear Twilight.” She smiled. “You did it. Sombra is no more.”

“We won?” Twilight asked weakly.

“Indeed, milady. Well done.” Sabre’s smile brought a great relief to her.

“Twilight!” Applejack’s voice sounded as she and the girls galloped over.

“Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked as Sabre lowered Twilight to the ground.

“Yeah.” She held her hoof to her head. “Just a splitting headache.”

“That was so awesome!” Rainbow Dash left the ground in excitement. “Princess Celestia was like ‘Boom’, and Princess Luna was like ‘Pow’ and Sabre was like ‘Take that!’…”

“Easy, Dash.” Applejack grabbed her tail and pulled her down.

“Is it over?” Rarity asked as she looked over the heavily damaged town.

“Yes, milady.” Sabre nodded. “This land is free from the terror of my father.”

“This time, for good.” Luna assured.

“Well done, everypony.” Celestia let out a long breath, duly worn out. “Although I must admit, I think I have had my fill of adventure for some time.” She laughed. They looked up at the sound of the dragon stirring; it rose and gazed about in confusion. Pained and lost, it roared in anger and slammed its tail down.

“Hey!” Fluttershy shouted as she flew before the dragon’s face. “Don’t you even think about it, mister! Ponyville has been through enough! I’m sorry you were used but the ordeal is over, so turn around and march your tail home right now!” The dragon cowered under her gaze, with a whimper it turned and sulked out of town.

“Remarkable.” Sabre admitted with amazement. “Lady Fluttershy’s power is great.”

“Sorry about that.” Fluttershy said with a polite smile as she rejoined them.

“Well, I guess we should round up the townsfolk and…” Applejack stopped as she saw a bright light coming from Sabre. They all watched in wonder as he rose from the ground and was engulfed in light. Upon dying down, they were greeted by the sight of a now silver coated Sabre. He unfolded his wings which were now tipped with ocean blue feathers and they noticed that his mark had altered to the image of an Alicorn in flight crossed with an ornate lance.

“My word!” Rarity beheld him in awe.

“I… I do not understand.” Sabre looked over himself in shock.

“I do.” Celestia approached him. “In defeating your father you have freed yourself from the shadow of his legacy. Your long and painful journey is at an end, hence you have been born anew.” She gestured to Twilight and her sister. “We Alicorns represent aspects of the natural world. I the sun and Luna the moon, Twilight represents friendship as Cadence does love.” She gave him a proud smile. “You are no longer the son of the wicked King Sombra. You are now Sabre, the Alicorn of justice.”

“I have not words for this.” Sabre turned to his friends who bore joyous smiles.

“You’ve earned it, big guy.” Rainbow Dash nodded soundly.

“You look so cool!” Pinkie Pie beamed. “Like a real life super hero.”

“Sabre.” Rarity went to his side and set her hoof to him. “I know your mother is smiling down on you right now.” She said with a tear in her eye.

“Thank you, milady. Thank you all.” He smiled “I would not have achieved this were it not for your friendship.”

“Well, it is magic.” Twilight smiled up at Celestia.

“Alright y’all, we’ve got a lot of cleaning up to do.” Applejack straightened her hat. “Get everypony out of hiding and let’s get to it.”

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy retrieved the citizens of Ponyville and led them back to their home. Despite the state of their town, they still rejoiced at the victory and set themselves to repairing the damage.

Epilogue:

It had been a week since the great battle and Ponyville had returned to its day to day life. Twilight and her friends were summoned to Canterlot to see Sabre, who had returned there with Princesses to embrace his new role; they eagerly met with Princess Celestia that afternoon.

“Girls, how are you all?” She asked.

“All healed up and good as new.” Rainbow Dash patted her chest.

“Ponyville is back to normal as well.” Rarity added.

“Wonderful news, please come with me.” Celestia started leading them further into the castle.

“So how’s Sabre?” Twilight asked.

“Happily adjusting to his new life.” She cheerily informed.

“That’s good to hear.” Fluttershy smiled at the news. “I’m so happy for him.” Celestia took them to the throne where Luna and Sabre awaited.

“Hi, Sabre!” Pinkie waved wildly.

“It is good to see you.” He and Luna joined them.

“What have y’all been up to?” Applejack asked.

“Well...” Celestia began. “That is something I do need to discuss with you.”

“What’s wrong?” Twilight instantly detected the tone in her voice.

“With Sabre’s ascension there is now great good he can do in the world, but first he must see it for himself.” Celestia explained. “I have asked him to travel to the other lands, introducing himself to our allies and letting those that would do evil know his name.”

“You’re… leaving?” Twilight looked to him with upset eyes.

“For a time, milady.” He went to her. “But know this; no matter how far I travel, Ponyville will always be my home.”

“Well, you’ve always got a spot at Sweet Apple Acres too.” Applejack removed her hat. “Far as I’m concerned, you can consider yourself a part of the Apple family.”

“I thank you, Lady Applejack.” He lowered his head graciously. “Having a family to call my own is a grand gift.”

“I’ll really miss you, Sabre.” Fluttershy said with a sad smile.

“And I you, Lady Fluttershy; for your kindness, I will be forever grateful.”

“I have to admit that with the whole Alicorn of justice thing…” Rainbow Dash looked him over with a grin. “You’re officially as cool as me.”

“An honor I shall not take for granted, Lady Rainbow Dash.” He laughed.

“By the time you get back, I promise the mares and stallions of Equestria will be proudly wearing the fashion of Blackhoof Valley.” Rarity assured.

“Thank you, Lady Rarity. I know you shall honor my former home with your works.”

“You have to give me a heads up when you’re in town.” Pinkie Pie pointed her hoof at him. “The party I’ll throw will be so big it’ll take at least a day to set up.”

“I look forward to it, Lady Pinkie.”

“Sabre.” Twilight began to tear up.

“Twilight, I know you do not wish to see him go.” Celestia looked to her softly.

“Milady.” He knelt before Twilight. “I shall return, and when I do I look forward to many more nights by the fire with you.”

“Sabre, I… I lo…” She sighed with a light smile. “I’ll keep the fire going for you.” She hugged him and he laid his cheek to hers.

“Then till we meet again.” He rose. “Take care, my friends.” He opened his elegant wings and took flight, leaving through the room’s skylight.

“Twilight, dear.” Rarity went to her side. “Why didn’t you tell him how you feel?”

“I will, someday.” Twilight looked to the sky.

“Well you’d better make up your mind.” Rainbow Dash hovered above her. “I might just reconsider and snatch him up myself.”

“What!?” Twilight huffed.

“Hey, he’s cool and he should have a cool marefriend.” She shrugged. “We all know I’m the coolest one here so...”

“Oh please.” Rarity waved her off. “A stallion of Sabre’s caliber should have somepony refined and classy on his hoof.”

“You too!?” Twilight stamped her hoof.

“I think he needs somepony gentle that will tend his cuts and bruises when he gets back from saving Equestria.” Fluttershy giggled as they started for the door.

“Oh no you don’t!” Twilight followed after them.

“Whatever, we all know he likes me best.” Pinkie laughed. “I do throw the best parties after all.”

“Like that would even be a factor.” Twilight argued.

“Darn tootin, he’s a hard working stallion and he needs a hard working mare.” Applejack put her hat on proudly.

“Now you all listen here!” Twilight started as they began laughing.

“It seems a new battle has begun.” Luna noted.

Celestia sighed with a light shake of her head. “And here I had hoped the war was over.” The sisters laughed as they watched the girls tease each other.

Author's Note

I hope everyone enjoys this rework of my first fic. Going over it again, with the adjustments i've made I think it holds up pretty well. For the last bit of the latin lesson; Acus Verberare translates to needle barrage, Ligamentum roughly translates into web or webbing, Caestus translates to gauntlet, Purgo translates to purge, Praesepio translates to shield/barricade, Ungula translates to claw/talon and Finis translates to end. Speaking of end, thanks for reading and coming down memory lane with me.