My Little Cryophoenix: Black Ice is Magic

Chapters

The Cycle Begins
Rebirth
Embrace Eternity
Ominous Winds
Rescue Gone Wrong
Frosted Crystals

The Cycle Begins

In a great ornate hall carved from the very ice of a massive glacier, children dressed in warm furs played and wrestled with each other. The room was grand in scale, with the most defining feature being the large stone etching in the center of the floor representing the stone eyes that watch over all of the Frostguard tribe. The young ones all fell silent as a gorgeous woman in a blue satin dress with hair as white and lustrous as the snow outside entered from the cold. “Gather round, children.” She said in a voice to be envied by the sweetest songbirds. “It is time for stories.” She said, prompting the children to gather and sit around her as she knelt in the center of the floor etching.

“What story will you tell us tonight, Lissandra?” One of the children asked, scooting forward a bit as she looked eagerly to the older woman.

Lissandra giggled lightly and ruffled the child’s hair. “Tonight is the night for one of my favorites, child. Tonight I will tell you the story of Anivia, the Cryophoenix.”

“The cry oh feen… What’s that, Lissandra?” The same girl from before asked.

“Imagine the most beautiful bird you’ve ever seen.” Lissandra said, emphasizing the word ‘beautiful’ with an arc of her arm.

“Oh! Like that bird the outsider had?” One of the boys near the back asked.

“Now, now.” Lissandra said. “You should know better than to talk about that outsider. Remember how she left so rudely after we were so hospitable?”

“Yeah, but she had a really cool bird.”

“Well I assure you, the cryophoenix is ‘cool’ in a very different way.” Lissandra said, turning her attention away from the boy and to the rest of the group. “Anivia is the name used by the Freljord’s most powerful and most ancient protector. She is a massive, magnificent bird whose body is made up of the sacred ice of the ancient Freljord.

“A bird made of ice?” One scrappy looking boy asked.

“Yes, ice.” Lissandra said with a nod. “She has existed for as long as the Freljord itself, and will continue to exist as long as it does. She will never truly die as long as there is snow and ice in this world.”

“But everyone dies someday, don’t they?” Another girl asked. “Like Snowy.” She said, looking at the ground sadly.

Lissandra cradled the girl’s cheek in one palm and shushed her gently. “Snowy was your pet, I imagine?”

“Uh huh.” The girl said, shutting her eyes. “He was my friend. I miss my snowy kitty.” She said, beginning to sob.

“Now stop those tears, dear.” Lissandra said, pulling the child into a hug. “Snowy is with the Watchers now. In fact, I’d bet he is watching over you right now.” She said with a smile, putting the girl at ease. “Much like how Anivia also watches over us all. She may die, but she is reborn every time. It is said that the cryophoenix dies at the end of a great age, and is reborn at the start of the next one. She has lived at least a thousand lifetimes, and will surely live for thousands more.”

“What does she do to protect us though if she can’t even protect Haela’s cat?” Another girl asked.

“Anivia is the gentle breeze that guides the lost traveller.” Lissandra said, addressing the crowd softly. “And she is also the fierce blizzard that drives malevolent forces away from our sacred land.” She said, gaining some fervor in her storytelling. “She ensures that each and every one of us can sleep soundly at night without fear, and she is truly a magnificent sight to behold.”

“You’ve seen Anivia, Lissandra?” The boy who spoke earlier asked, mouth wide and eyes shining.

“Indeed I have.” Lissandra said with a nod, gaining oohs and ahs from the children. “I have spoken with her as well. She told me that as long as she lived, she would stop at nothing to protect the Freljord. And trust me when I tell you that she fully intends to keep her word.”

“What else did she say?” A girl asked as the group of children all leaned in a bit closer to Lissandra.

“The last thing she told me was to make sure…” Lissandra paused, looking around at all of the bright faces expecting some great secret to be revealed. “To make sure that all of the children of my village were safe at home before the sky became too dark.”

The children all groaned at once, causing Lissandra to laugh a bit to herself.

“Now, now young ones.” Lissandra said, standing up and lightly brushing down the front of her dress. “You must go home now. I will have more to tell you another time.” She said, blowing a kiss to the children. Now go home, and be safe.”

Though slightly disappointed, the children reluctantly finished saying their goodbyes and departed for their homes. Lissandra was eventually left alone in the great chamber, standing in the center of the eye on the floor.

“Anivia.” She whispered as large crystals of black ice began to rise around her feet. “You are the embodiment of the Freljord’s grace and beauty.” She said, her dress flattening and seeming to solidify against her flesh. “You are the avatar of the whirlwind’s might.” She said, her voice gaining a strange echoing quality as the black ice shards grew up to be as high as her waist. “And soon, you will be the greatest force towards the purification of this world.” She smirked as a smooth black ice headdress materialized out of the air itself, covering her eyes and splitting into two extended prongs in the back. “For there is no purer thing on this plane than the crushing power of my black ice. You will see this very soon.” She said, cackling lightly as she sank down, seemingly melding into the floor and disappearing along with the setting of the sun.

High up in the farthest reaches of the Ironspike mountain range, a great frozen eagle nested in peaceful meditation. The bird began to stir as snowflakes began to fall gently from the clouds. “Snowflakes.” Anivia mused as she watched the crystals fall. “No matter how many times I watch you, I never see the same one twice.” She said, laughing lightly to herself as she extended a wing to catch the flakes. One solitary snowflake came to rest on the tip of her wing, after which she carefully brought it closer to her face.

“Such a simple thing, and yet so unique.” Anivia said, examining the snowflake closely. “You are alone. Not like any of those that you know. You will never be like them, but that’s okay.” She said, turning the flake over in her wing. “You, like your brethren, are so very insignificant alone. But together, you can create such a terrifying force as an avalanche. It never ceases to amaze me that this is possible.” Anivia sighed. “So where will your destiny take you, little snowflake?” She asked just before the crystal in question was whisked away on a sudden gust.

“What?” Anivia asked as she watched the snowflake soar into the sky, turn black, and then fall to the ground like a stone. “I have felt this corruption before…” She growled as she watched the clouds darken. The pure white snowflakes from before were being replaced with black, twisted facsimiles of their former selves.

“Ice Witch!” Anivia beckoned, rising from her nest and spreading her wings wide. “Show yourself, so that I may finally rid the Freljord of your taint!”

“Anivia, how can you be so wise and yet so foolish?” And echoing voice asked from the ice itself. “You can surely tell how much stronger I am than you. My power is growing, and that scares you. Doesn’t it?”

“Lissandra! Enough of your games!” Anivia boomed, kicking up black snow as she rose into the sky. “I will not tolerate your corruption any longer!”

“But of course you won’t.” Lissandra said as she emerged from the snow. “Before long, you will embrace the power of black ice.”

“I shall do no such thing!” Anivia shouted as she whipped up a mighty blizzard of pure ice, buffeting Lissandra on all sides.

“You think that such a petty storm with faze me?” Lissandra asked.

“Of course not.” Anivia answered. I have yet to bring my full force to bear!” She screamed as she launched a frozen spear at the ice witch.

“I have no time for your pathetic spells!” Lissandra said, encasing herself in a tomb of black ice, shattering the ice spear into fragments on impact. “You will succumb!” She shouted as a giant claw of black ice materialized behind Anivia and swatted her to the ground.

“AUGH!” Anivia shouted as she hit the floor of her nest, quickly being covered in black snowflakes. “Why can’t I move?” The cryophoenix thought in a panic, struggling to even breathe as the black snow continued to fall and press down on her.

“And here I thought you would put up a fight.” Lissandra said with a sigh. “Just as well. You will be far stronger when I am through with you.” She said as she generated a jagged stake of black ice in her hand. “This gem on your forehead has always intrigued me.” Lissandra said, stroking the ruby in question with her free hand. “However, I think this one will look far better on you!” She yelled as she thrust the ice stake forward, plunging it deep into Anivia’s head.

Anivia screamed out in pain and terror as she felt something she had never felt before. “Why… Why am I cold?” Anivia wondered as her consciousness began to fade.

“And so ends a great age of the Freljord.” Lissandra said, stepping back to admire her handiwork. The shard of corrupted black ice jutted from the center of Anivia’s forehead like a terrible horn. It completely covered the lustrous red gem once visible there. “And so begins a new age of power for the Watchers!” Lissandra shouted to the sky, cackling wildly. As she was looking away however, something had begun to happen to Anivia.

The magic of the Freljord and the polar opposite magic of the black ice began to react in a way that Lissandra had not expected. The surrounding area was soon enveloped in a magical aura, distorting space and time around the two entities.

“What is this?” Lissandra asked as she looked back to Anivia. “No! Stop this instant! This was not supposed to happen!” She yelled, screaming as the entire mountain peak exploded in a spectacular display of magical energy.

“Oh, I hope Angel will be happy with these.” Fluttershy said as she plucked another carrot from her garden and placed it gently in her saddlebag. “I’m sure he will be. He’s been less picky lately, and this was a very good harvest besides.” She said before moving on and humming to herself. A sudden commotion in her chicken coop however, broke her from her reverie. “Elizabeak? Are you causing trouble again?” Fluttershy asked as the chickens all spilled out of the coop. “Now girls, you know it isn’t time for you to come out yet.” She said as the chickens began pointing frantically at the coop.

“What’s that?” Fluttershy asked. “You say there’s an egg in there?” She asked, gaining a nod from the chicken in front. “And none of you laid it?” She asked, getting urgent shakes of the head from every chicken this time.

“I suppose I should see what the fuss is about.” Fluttershy said as she poked her head into the coop. “Oh my!” She gasped when she saw a large egg surrounded by pure white ice shards. “You poor thing! You must be freezing! I need to get you inside right away!” Fluttershy squealed, dumping the carrots out of her saddlebag to make room for the egg and galloping inside her cottage as quickly as she could.

Rebirth

“Twilight, I don’t get why you’re so excited about this.” Rainbow Dash groaned, hovering beside the purple alicorn as she trotted happily down the road to Fluttershy’s cottage. “So Fluttershy found a big chicken egg. Big whoop.”

“I’m not really gettin’ it either.” Applejack admitted, keeping pace with Twilight. “I mean, I see chicken eggs all the time. Sometimes they come out big.”

“I guess I’m not really all that excited about the egg, honestly.” Twilight said, looking back at her friends. “Mostly, I’m still a bit excited about what happened this morning.”

“You still haven’t explained to us what actually happened.” Rarity said, adjusting her sun hat to keep the glare out of her eyes.

“That’s because I’m not really sure what it was.” Twilight explained. “I thought I mentioned that.”

“That still doesn’t explain why you’re so hyper!” Rainbow Dash sighed.

“Doesn’t it?” Twilight asked. “I don’t know what it was! It’s a mystery!” She said, stopping briefly and clopping her front hooves together a couple times. “I felt a huge magical disturbance this morning. Just think of all the research it could warrant!”

“I love a good mystery!” Pinkie Pie said as she hopped along, Holmes-esque deerstalker cap bouncing on her head.

“Shouldn’t you be more worried about a magical disturbance?” Rarity asked. “I believe I faintly felt what you did, and I think it deserves a bit more caution.”

“Well of course I’m going to be careful.” Twilight said. “But that doesn’t mean I can’t be excited by the potential of new magic to discover.

“Girls! Thank Celestia you’re here!” Fluttershy exclaimed when she saw her friends crossing the bridge to her home. “Come in, quickly! I’m not sure how much longer it will last.” She said as she quickly ducked back into her house.

“You heard her, girls. Let’s see what’s wrong.” Twilight said, galloping in with the rest trailing behind her.

“I still don’t get why she needed all of us to see-” Rainbow Dash began but stopped herself when she saw the egg.

The egg resting on the living room table was about the size of a pony’s head, and was surrounded on all sides by radiant shards of ice jutting into the air. “Fluttershy, what in Equestria is this?” Twilight asked, approaching the egg slowly.

“I don’t know.” Fluttershy said, retrieving a blanket from the closet and tucking it around the egg. “But it won’t warm up no matter what I do.” She said as the blanket flash-froze to the shell, almost as if to prove a point.

“This was in yer chicken coop?” Applejack asked, gently prodding the egg with a forehoof. “Land’s sakes!” She shouted, pulling her hoof back and looking at the small bit of frost accumulated on it. “That’s colder than anything I ever saw.” She said, rubbing her hoof along her other foreleg to warm it up.

“I just don’t know what to do.” Fluttershy said, looking down at the floor. “I’m worried that whatever is inside won’t be able to survive much longer like this.”

“Fluttershy.” Twilight said. “Did it ever occur to you that maybe whatever is in this egg is supposed to be cold?”

“Well, I thought of that at one point.” Fluttershy said. “But what creature hatches in the cold? No living thing works naturally like that.”

“Maybe it isn’t natural.” Rarity suggested, studying the egg as she circled the table. “Pinkie Pie!”

“Wha?” Pinkie Pie asked, her tongue frozen to the shell of the egg. “How wath I thuppothed to know I’d get thtuck?”

Please, Pinkie Pie! Focus!” Twilight said, using her magic to carefully separate Pinkie’s tongue from the egg.

“Leth thee… Yep.” Pinkie Pie said, prodding her tongue with a hoof. “I can’t feel my tongue.” She said before bursting into uncontrollable giggling.

“Anyways, Rarity makes a good point.” Twilight said, turning back to Fluttershy. “What if this egg is from something you’ve never seen before? Something that isn’t like other creatures.”

“Well…” Fluttershy said, looking to each of her friends in turn. “I guess it’s as good a shot as anything. I’ll go get some ice.” She said as she walked into the kitchen.

“So Twilight, you ever heard of anything like this before?” Rainbow Dash asked, flying low to get a top-down view of the egg.

“No. This is new to me.” Twilight said. “In all my studies, I’ve never read or heard about an egg that generates cold like this.”

“So what can you tell from lookin’ at it?” Applejack asked, keeping her distance from the egg.

“Well for starters-” Twilight began before Pinkie Pie interrupted her.

“It’s really, really cold.” Pinkie said, nodding her head for a few seconds afterwards. Everypony else in the room just looked at her for a few seconds until Twilight broke the silence by clearing her throat.

“Well, yes.” Twilight said, walking closer to the egg. “But it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen.” She said, concentrating some magical power on the egg. “Maybe I can identify it if I-”

“Greetings, young one.” A feminine voice echoed in Twilight’s mind.

“What the?” Twilight asked, dropping her spell and looking around at her friends.

“What’s the matter, darling?” Rarity asked. “Is everything alright?”

“None of you said anything just now?” Twilight asked.

“You alright, Twi?” Applejack asked. “Yer lookin’ a bit pale.”

“I’m… Not sure.” Twilight said, looking at the egg again. “I think I’m starting to get what that magical disturbance from earlier was.”

“Sorry that took me so long.” Fluttershy grunted as she walked back into the living room straining to carry a large bucket filled with ice on her back. “I had a hard time finding something that could hold the egg and still have room for enough ice.”

“Let me lend you a hoof there, Sugarcube.” Applejack said as she pressed herself against Fluttershy’s side to share the weight.

“Oh, thank you Applejack.” Fluttershy said as the two carried the bucket over and eased it onto the table.

“Here.” Twilight said as AJ and Fluttershy backed away. “I’ll get the egg inside.” She said as she lifted the egg with her magic.

“Thank you for this.” The same voice from before said to Twilight as her magic enveloped it. “I owe you my thanks.”

“Don’t mention it.” Twilight said, unsure if the voice could hear her as well.

When Twilight set the egg down into the ice bucket, there was an immediate reaction. The ice was seemingly being absorbed directly into the egg, causing it to radiate with a faint light, as it grew slightly larger. It continued to grow until it had absorbed all of the ice in the bucket, and then it began to move.

“Is it hatching?” Rainbow Dash asked as the egg shook violently enough to tip the bucket and roll itself to the edge of the table.

“Oh no!” Fluttershy exclaimed as she lunged to grab it.

“Stop!” Twilight urged as she flared her wings to block Fluttershy. “We don’t know what it’s doing. We can’t risk touching it right now.”

Just then, the egg rolled off the table and to the hard, wooden floor. When it hit the ground, it made a slight dent in the wood but was its self unharmed. The egg continued to shake as fresh ice shards rose up around it, keeping it from moving further. As it shook in it’s own icy grip, a bright blue light began to drift down from above.

“What in Celestia’s name is that?” Twilight wondered in awe as the six mares watched the light drift lower and lower. Eventually, it finally reached the egg, causing it to shake violently once again before exploding in a blinding white light that coated the immediate area in a fine snowy powder.

“Thank you for helping me to be reborn.” The voice from Twilight’s mind echoed from the center of the light. “I am in your debt, small creatures.” It said as the light began to fade.

When the light receded, Anivia stood anew. Her wings folded at her sides, and her ruby eyes vibrant with life. However, she had also retained the painful reminder of her recent defeat. A black horn of ice still jutted from the center of her forehead.

“Oh my goodness.” Fluttershy said as her eyes went wide as saucers and her wings flared in awe.

“What… Are you?” Twilight asked, similarly amazed.

“I am Anivia. The Cryophoenix.” Anivia said, spreading her wings as wide as Fluttershy’s cottage would allow. She stood at least two and a half ponies tall and spoke with authority true to her regal appearance.

“That. Was. AMAZING!” Pinkie Pie shouted with her hooves in the air as everypony else realized she was now wearing sunglasses.

“I’ve never heard of a cryophoenix before.” Fluttershy said. “In fact, I’ve only seen two other phoenixes before.”

“So you’re like a regular phoenix…” Twilight began. “But you control ice instead of fire?”

“That would indeed be the case.” Anivia said, bringing her wings to rest at her sides again. “I apologize if I sound forward, but I have yet to learn your names.”

“Oh! Sorry.” Twilight said before clearing her throat. “My name is Twilight Sparkle. This is Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie.” She said, indicating each of her friends in turn.

“I see.” Anivia said. “So I have you to thank for finding me and providing me with shelter in my time of need, Fluttershy.” She said, turning to face Fluttershy. “For that, you have my undying gratitude.” She said, bowing her head.

“Oh, it was nothing, really.” Fluttershy said, beginning to blush softly. “I love to tend to all creatures. Big and small.”

“I’m afraid I must apologize again.” Anivia said, turning back to the rest of the group. “But I know not where I am or how I have gotten here. However, I must return to the Freljord as soon as possible.”

“The frel-what now?” Rainbow Dash asked, looking at Anivia quizzically.

“I’ve never heard of the Freljord either.” Twilight said.

“The Freljord is my home.” Anivia said. “It is the farthest northern peaks of Runeterra.”

“Runeterra?” Rarity asked. “Wherever might that be?”

“Are we not on Runeterra?” Anivia asked, tilting her head.

“I’m not sure where that might be.” Twilight said. “But this is Equestria.”

“Equestria?” Anivia repeated. “In all my years, I have never heard of this place. In fact, I have never heard of horses that could speak either. What manner of creatures are you?”

“Well, ‘horses’ isn’t entirely inaccurate.” Twilight said, rubbing her chin in thought. “We’re ponies.”

“I apologize.” Anivia said. “I meant no offense.”

“None taken.” Applejack said.

“So wait, you’re saying you’re from some country called Rune-whatever it was?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“No.” Anivia said. “The country of my origin is known as Valoran. Runeterra is the planet upon which Valoran exists.”

“You’re from another PLANET?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “You guys! We’ve just found a REAL. LIVE. ALIEN! How awesome is that!” She shouted, scrunching her face up in her hooves.

“You’re from another world entirely?” Twilight asked. “This is incredible! Princess Celestia will want to know about this.”

“A princess?” Anivia asked.

“Princess Celestia is the leader of Equestria.” Twilight explained. “She’s also a very powerful alicorn, and my personal teacher.” She added, smiling a bit as she said it. “She might be able to use her magic to help you get home.”

“Then I can afford to waste no time.” Anivia said. “If it isn’t too much trouble, I would ask that you take me to your leader.”

“See?” Rainbow Dash whispered to Rarity. “So totally an alien! Awesome!”

“Alright.” Twilight said. “You all stay here for now. I need to get the library and have Spike send a letter. Even with such an important guest, we shouldn’t just show up unannounced.” Twilight said as she left the cottage and made a beeline towards Golden Oaks library.

“This place is barren. Fitting, I suppose.” Lissandra growled as she felt her surroundings through the ice underneath her. “This is not the ice I know, but its power is the same. Runeterra is far from this place, but opportunity can be found. If only one knows where to look.” She said with a smirk.

Through the ice Lissandra could feel the presence of life not far from her. She could feel hooves on snow, she could feel a magnificent city in the tundra, and she could feel her own dark power aching to cleanse this world in ice as well.

Embrace Eternity

“I’m sorry you have to ride in the caboose, Anivia.” Twilight said as the train exited another tunnel. “The other cars just aren’t equipped to accommodate you.”

“It is no trouble.” Anivia said, rocking back and forth slowly for balance. “I did not expect exceptions to be made for my comfort. I am just grateful that your ruler is willing to see me on such short notice.”

“She is very curious about your world.” Twilight said. “I look forward to hearing more, myself.”

“Well then, I would be happy to share some of my knowledge with you.” Anivia said with a nod. “But for now, I am more concerned with finding a way home.”

“Of course.” Twilight said. “Business before pleasure, right?”

“Indeed.” Anivia agreed.

When the train pulled into the station, there was already a group of royal guards waiting to escort the group to the castle. As they proceeded through the city, everypony they passed dropped what they were doing to gawk at Anivia.

Just as the attention began to become uncomfortable, the group arrived at the palace gates. Once inside and away from prying eyes, Twilight turned to face Anivia. “I’m sorry about that. Everypony is just curious about you. I’m sure they didn’t mean to stare.”

“Twilight, you really must stop apologizing for everything.” Anivia said, chuckling slightly. “I am fine, and their curiosity is not unexpected. Very few are used to seeing me even on my own world. I am used to being considered… Unapproachable.”

“Unapproachable?” Twilight asked. “That sounds lonely.”

“When one has lived for as long as I have, loneliness becomes more of a comfort than a burden.” Anivia said, ruffling her icy down slightly.

“But you have friends on your world, don’t you?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Yes, in a sense.” Anivia said, closing her eyes. “Ashe. She leads the largest current tribe in my homeland. She is wise beyond her years, but that will not last.”

“Whatever do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“She is mortal.” Anivia said, closing her eyes as she began walking towards the castle. “Eventually, time catches up with all mortal beings. I have found it better not to become overly attached. It helps with the pain later on.”

“But what about-” Twilight began before Anivia cut her off with a wing.

“I do not wish to speak further on this. Let us meet your princess.” Anivia said, staring down at the small alicorn.

“R-right. Okay.” Twilight said, taking the lead as they entered the castle.

“Twilight Sparkle, it is always a pleasure to see you.” Princess Celestia said, rising from her throne and approaching the entering group of ponies.

“The pleasure is ours, Celestia.” Twilight said as her friends bowed.

“I see you are becoming more accustomed to your new station.” Celestia said, observing that Twilight did not bow with her friends. “This pleases me very much to see. But where might your new acquaintance be?” she asked, looking around for an unfamiliar sight.

“I am here.” Anivia said, finally coming through the doorway. “I am not as mobile as I prefer when out of my element. No matter. My name is Anivia, and I humbly request your assistance.”

“Greetings, Anivia.” Celestia said, walking closer to her. “I am princess Celestia, and I am honored to welcome you to Equestria.” she said, briefly bowing her head politely. “I am not sure what help I can provide, but I would be happy to assist anypony in need.”

“You are very kind.” Anivia said. “But I suspect you will want something from me in exchange?”

“In a way, yes.” Celestia said. “If I understand correctly from Twilight’s letter, you are not from our world. I am very curious about what your world is like.”

“So you wish to hear of Runeterra?” Anivia asked. “I have lived for a long time, and I have learned much. Ask whatever questions you need of me.”

“Actually, I’m afraid that won’t be quite enough.” Celestia said. “If I am to create a spell to send you home, I will need to know first hoof what your world is like. If I cannot attune myself to your world’s magic, you could end up anywhere.”

“I see.” Anivia said, bringing the tip of a wing to rest under her beak as she thought.

“If you would allow it,” Celestia said, stepping closer once again, “it would be most beneficial if I could see directly into your mind.”

“I believe I have experience in what you suggest.” Anivia said, bringing her wing back to her side. “In my world, the Institute of War once used what were called Judgments to determine if someone was eligible to join the League of Legends as a Champion.” She explained. “Though I was not required to submit to a Judgment, I am familiar with the concept.”

“I’ve never used this spell on a being quite like yourself before.” Celestia said. “I may not be able to filter out what I need to see, and what you wish to remain private.”

“I will have no use for privacy if I never return home.” Anivia said. “What you see in my mind will be for you to live with. I already do.”

“Very well then.” Celestia said as her horn glowed a bright golden color. “Please, relax your mind.” she said as both hers and Anivia’s visions went dark.

When Anivia opened her eyes, she was back in her familiar nest on the top of the Ironspike mountain range. “That could not have been a dream.” Anivia said, shaking her head lightly.

“Your home is very beautiful.” Celestia said, admiring the snowflakes as they fell around her. “But so far up in these mountains; I assume you don’t entertain much.” she said with a smirk.

“I suppose I do not.” Anivia said, stretching her wings in the familiar breeze. “Still, it is home to me.”

“And this place is called the Freljord?” Celestia asked.

“That is correct.” Anivia said, nodding. “This is a land rich with history. But also with blood.”

“I can feel that.” Celestia said, shivering briefly. “Many wars have been fought here. This entire world feels like it is in pain.”

“That is why the League of Legends exists.” Anivia said, approaching Celestia from behind. “They hope to keep this pain from worsening while others try to right what has gone wrong.”

“And while others continue to do wrong as well.” Celestia said as the sky began to darken. “I feel a disturbing presence. We are not safe here.” She said, her horn glowing again.

Anivia had to shield her eyes as the light from Celestia’s horn became too intense to bear. She heard a pained screech for a moment before the ground shifted from under her. When the earth stopped moving, Anivia and Celestia were standing in a forested area.

“This place is strange.” Celestia said, looking around at the foliage. “It is natural, but yet… There are powerful magics at work here.”

“This is Summoner’s Rift.” Anivia explained. “It is the most commonly used location for battles waged between Champions.”

“So you have fought here before as well?” Celestia asked.

“I have been summoned here many times.” Anivia said. “When I am, fighting is inevitable. It is simply the way things are in modern Valoran.”

“I see.” Celestia said. “Your realm is very violent.”

“Violence is necessary on occasion.” Anivia said, looking over at Celestia again. “If not for the League, I imagine Valoran would have been torn apart ages ago. The Rune Wars that preceded the League were the very definition of magical brutality.”

The sky began to darken once more as Anivia spoke. A cruel, chilling wind was sent rushing through the trees. “We must not linger in any one memory too long.” Celestia said as her horn glowed once more. “There is something unfamiliar to you taking root in your thoughts. Beware of it,” she said just before they were engulfed in a white light.

As the light receded, the two were left standing in a snowy field, the white plane broken only by a mound of rough stones jutting from the ground. “This is not a recent memory.” Anivia said, staring at the stone. “It is ancient; from many lifetimes ago.”

“Is this a significant landmark?” Celestia asked, approaching the stone.

“Only to those who know of it.” Anivia said, ruffling her icy feathers a bit.

Princess Celestia brought a hoof up to wipe some snow from the face of the stone. As she did, she uncovered a strange sigil beneath.

“Anivia, what does this symbol mean?” Celestia asked.

“Avarosa.” Anivia said. “She was the first true queen of the Freljord. And she was assassinated many eons ago.” she said, bowing her head.

“It sounds like she left an impression on you.” Celestia said.

“She was a truly magnificent woman. But she was betrayed by her own sister.” Anivia said, her voice becoming harsh.

“Her sister?” Celestia asked, thoughts of her own younger sibling running through her mind.

“Yes.” Anivia said. “Her name is Lissandra. She is the reason Avarosa is no longer with us. And more recently,” she said, pointing to her horn, “the source of this unsightly scar.”

“I meant to ask about your horn.” Celestia said. “It’s magic is unlike what I sensed from you on the whole.”

“It worries me somewhat.” Anivia said. “It should not still be here after my rebirth in your world.”

As she spoke, the skies began to darken one more time. “It is here.” Celestia said.

“No!” Anivia boomed, spreading her wings wide and whipping the snow around into a massive blizzard. “This memory is sacred! I shall not allow it to be sullied!”

“I am sorry, Anivia.” Celestia said as her horn glowed one final time. Just as the light overwhelmed Anivia’s vision, she felt the cold recede and another anguished screech echo through her mind. And then everything was dark.

“NO!” Anivia shouted, causing the six ponies around her to jump in surprise.

“Anivia, calm yourself please.” Celestia said. “We are back in Canterlot. And I have seen all that I needed to see.”

“I apologize.” Anivia said, bowing her head to Celestia. “That was… Not what I expected to go through.”

“I should be the one apologizing.” Celestia said with a shake of her head. “It was not my intent to upset you.”

“What happened?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah.” Rainbow Dash said. “You both just kind of stood there and stared off into space.”

“Until you gave us that scare just now, that is.” Applejack added, retrieving her hat from where it had fallen.

“I’ve gotten a good idea of how to begin developing a spell to return you to your homeworld.” Celestia said. “It will take some time for me to stabilize a portal, however. In the meantime, I would like you all to keep Anivia company.”

“You want her to stay with us?” Twilight asked, looking over to her friends.

“Indeed.” Celestia said. “I believe that spending some time with our guest with prove to be an educational experience for everypony involved. That goes for you as well, Anivia.”

“Far be it from me to question you.” Anivia said. “This is your realm, so I shall follow your direction.”

“I thank you for being so amenable.” Celestia said with a smile. “And what of the rest of you? Thoughts? Concerns?”

“I think we can handle things.” Twilight said. “I’m sure we’d all be happy to show her around.” She said, gaining nods from each of her friends.

“Then I will leave you all to it.” Celestia nodded. “If you will excuse me, I believe I have a spell to ready.” She said as she turned and left the room, the door closing gently behind her.

“Halt!” A crystal pony guard commanded as Lissandra approached. “What kind of creature are you?” She asked as she raised a spear to the ice witch.

“I should ask the same of you, little mare.” Lissandra said. “What exactly is this place?”

“You stand outside the gates of the crystal empire.” The guard said. “And outside is where you will remain unless you resign yourself to my custody.”

“But can you not see that I am unarmed?” Lissandra asked, slowly raising her hands and showing them to be empty. “I am but lost in this tundra and looking for shelter.” She said as a sheet of ice began spreading from beneath her, unbeknownst to the pony opposing her.

“I can’t afford to take chances.” The guard said. “If you surrender yourself to me, then I will make sure you are well taken care of until such a time as you can be released.”

“Well I’m afraid that just won’t work out for me.” Lissandra said as she snapped her fingers. When she did, great shafts of ice rose from around the pony guard and lifted her into the air, suspending her in place.

“What sorcery is this?!” The guard shouted as her spear fell to the snow.

“This is the pure raw power of black ice.” Lissandra said, lifting herself up to eye level with the restrained pony. “A power that I control. And a power that you will respect.” She said, touching a finger to the pony’s forehead and coating her in black ice.

“Unhoof me you vile-” The guard tried to protest before being completely entombed.

Lissandra chuckled softly at her captive as she lowered her to the ground. “So defiant. We’ll see how long that lasts.” She said as she dragged both herself and her prisoner under the snow and ice. “I have many questions about you and your world. And you are going to cooperate, one way or another.”

Ominous Winds

“Sister?” Princess Celestia asked, knocking gently on her younger sister’s bedroom doors. “Luna, are you awake?”

“Yes, Tia. You may come in.” Luna called through the door, prompting her sister to enter.

As the doors swung slowly open, Luna carefully levitated the headset she was wearing over to her desk. “I see you’ve gotten a new game recently.” Celestia said as Luna turned her TV off.

“These video games are such amazing things.” Luna said. “A thousand years ago, I never could have imagined such a thing would ever exist.”

“I share that sentiment.” Celestia said. “We have made many advances since you were away. I’m glad you’re catching up with the times so well.”

“So what is the meaning of your visit?” Luna asked, turning to face her sister. “Certainly you didn’t come here to discuss my latest addition to my game library.”

“I would like some help preparing some spells, if you wouldn’t mind.” Celestia said, getting straight to the point.

“And what sort of spells could you possibly need my help with?” Luna asked. “You’re capable enough to do anything short of tearing holes through space and time.”

“And that is something I intend to do.” Celestia nodded.

“I don’t think I need to remind you of how dangerous a prospect that is, dear sister.” Luna said.

“I know, and I have good reasons.”

“Yes, that new creature. Anivia, I believe her name was?” Luna said, smirking a bit at her sister’s surprised look.

“I did not think word would travel that quickly through the castle.” Celestia said.

“It does not.” Luna said, standing from her bed and moving to walk with her sister. “When our guest got to this world, I felt it just as strongly as you did. She was in a deep sleep when she arrived. Almost as if she were not alive at all.”

“And so you conducted your own investigation?” Celestia asked.

“I would be remiss not to.” Luna replied. “This was obviously a being capable of powerful magic. To remain unaware of her potential risk in the face of such a perfect opportunity to learn would be grossly irresponsible of me.”

“I see.” Celestia said thoughtfully.

“Her mind is very open to outsiders. I felt as though I was not among the first to share her consciousness.” Luna said. “And I felt that I was not the only one sharing it at that time, either.”

“I can attest to the same as of today.” Celestia said.

“While Anivia’s mind is pure, this other entity is a corrosive intruder. That is all I could ascertain before I had to retreat.” Luna said, shivering a bit. “Whatever makes its home in her mind, it is dark and ancient. Likely more so than either of us.”

“And that is what else I need your help with.” Celestia said.

“You wish to save this outsider from her own mind?” Luna asked.

“I’m sure you are aware of the second disturbance that day.” Celestia said.

“Yes, I am.” Luna said. “But I know not where or what it was. If it was another creature, it did not arrive in the same sorry state that Anivia did.”

“And that is what worries me.” Celestia said. “What if this second disruption is far less friendly than Anivia?”

“Then we must take measures to neutralize it.” Luna said, stomping a hoof. “We cannot allow our subjects to come to harm.”

“I may not have decisive proof yet,” Celestia said, “but I believe this intruder may be the reason Anivia is here in the first place.”

“And the source of the corruption in her mind?” Luna asked.

“Exactly.” Celestia nodded. “Until we can create a spell to keep that malevolence at bay, Anivia will be with Twilight and her friends.”

“In Ponyville?” Luna asked, slightly shocked. “Are you sure that is wise?”

“If anything has been proven to me by my most faithful student,” Celestia said as she paced into the hall, “it is that the magic of friendship can do miraculous things.”

“I only shared her consciousness briefly,” Luna said, “but I did not see many visions of friends while I was there.”

“And that is why I believe Twilight is her best option for now.” Celestia said. “I wonder who will connect with her first.” Celestia said, stopping to look out the window towards Ponyville.

“Dibs!” Pinkie Pie shouted as she and the other five ponies exited the train at Ponyville Station.

“Excuse me, what?” Rarity asked, cocking an eyebrow at Pinkie.

“I called dibs!” She shouted again, bouncing toward Anivia as she exited the caboose.

“I think she means she wants to spend time with Anivia first.” Applejack whispered to Rarity.

“Oh, I see.” Rarity said. “Why not all together then?”

“I apologize.” Anivia said, stepping forward. “I am not very accustomed to socializing.”

“Maybe Pinkie’s got a point.” Twilight said. “We don’t want to overwhelm her. Besides, I’m sure we’ll all get to spend time together with her after she’s gotten to know each of us a little better.”

“I’m cool with that.” Rainbow Dash said. “That way she can see how awesome I am without any distractions.”

Anivia hummed briefly, narrowing her eyes at Rainbow Dash.

“What’s the matter, dear?” Rarity asked.

“It is nothing.” Anivia said, shaking her head. “It’s just that her personality reminds me of a rather unsavory fellow champion in my world.”

“You’ll have to tell me about that later.” Rarity said, smirking a bit. “I must know who Rainbow Dash could possibly remind you of.”

“You won’t after you find out.” Anivia groaned.

“But that’ll have to wait till later!” Pinkie said, jumping up and latching onto the back of Anivia’s neck, slightly throwing her off balance for a second. As soon as she grabbed hold, Pinkie began shivering violently. “Cause she’s gonna be bust at Sugarcube Corner for a while.” She said through her chattering teeth. “Jeez Louise. You’re colder now than when you were an egg.”

“Please remove yourself from my neck.” Anivia said, becoming slightly agitated.

“Right, sorry.” Pinkie Pie said as she let go and fell to the floor. “C’mon, follow me! La, lala lala.” She said, merrily skipping down the road.

Anivia looked back at the rest of the ponies before reluctantly following Pinkie Pie towards town.

“I hope Pinkie isn’t too much for her.” Fluttershy said.

“Oh, I’m sure she’ll be fine.” Twilight said, not sounding particularly sure of herself. “It’s just Pinkie Pie. She’s bound to have met others like her before.”

“Somehow I doubt that.” Rainbow Dash quipped, Applejack and Rarity nodding in agreement.

“Release me, you demon!” The crystal mare shouted, having previously been stripped of her armor.

“Demon?” Lissandra asked. “Your words wound me, small creature. I wish only to learn of your world. Particularly your crystal city.”

“I am Lustrous Glaive, a sworn protector of the Crystal Empire, and I’ll never tell you anything else. I’d rather die first.” The crystal pony growled.

“I could arrange that, if you so truly desire it.” Lissandra said, launching a spear of ice from her palm, stopping it in midair mere inches from the pony’s eye. The guard’s terror was evident on her face as the black shard hovered in front of her, rotating slowly like a great frozen drill bit. “Ah, how the bravado fades when truly threatened.” Lissandra chuckled. “If the rest of your kind are so easily intimidated, then this will be far easier than I thought.”

“I- I’m not the only guard for the whole empire!” The Lustrous Glaive said, trying her hardest not to look at the black ice. “My friends will come looking for me. You’ll be sorry!”

“A search party, hmm?” Lissandra asked as the ice dissipated into crystalline mist in front of the guard. “I’m counting on it.” She said as the tiny crystals flew into her captive’s face.

“Wha- AUGH!” The Lustrous Glaive began convulsing as black ice moved throughout her body. As she twitched, she could feel her blue crystal coat stand on end. Each individual hair in her green mane and tail straightened as they froze.

“You said your name was what? Lustrous Glaive?” Lissandra asked as the pony’s fits became slower. “Please. Tell me more.” She said, an evil grin crossing her face as the pony slowly stood back up.

“And this is where I work!” Pinkie shouted, flinging the door open in front of her. “Sugarcube Corner, the best bakery in all of Ponyville!”

“A bakery, you say.” Anivia said, ducking down to follow Pinkie through the doorway. “I believe I know someone who would be very interested in such an establishment. Though he would never freely admit it.”

“Well, maybe they can come and visit someday.” Pinkie said. “Anyways, I’ve got something great planned for you here.”

“Pinkie Pie, glad you’re back.” Mr. Cake said as he came in from the kitchen. “I hope you can explain why you needed so much- WHA!” He exclaimed when he saw Anivia. “Pinkie Pie, what is that?” He asked, pointing to Anivia.

“Oh, this is just my new friend, Anivia. Say hi to Mr. Cake, Anivia.” She said, gesturing to the surprised stallion with her hooves.

“Hello. I apologize if my appearance is causing you trouble.” Anivia said.

“Oh, no.” Mr. Cake said, adjusting his hat. “I was just surprised is all. You seem like a kind enough sort. Make yourself at home, I suppose.” He said before going upstairs.

“Anyways, it sounds like the stuff I needed is already in there, so let’s go!” Pinkie shouted before bolting into the kitchen.

“I can’t help but wonder what you’re going on about.” Anivia said as she followed the pony.

“Believe it or not, I get that all the time.” Pinkie said. “I guess some ponies, and some birds too now, just don’t really get me. In fact, I don’t even get me sometimes. But luckily, I did get all of… This!” She shouted, pointing to a collection of large buckets all coded a different color.

“What… Is this?” Anivia asked, looking down into the open container and finding a large amount of red liquid inside. “Blood?” She asked.

“What? Ew!” Pinkie cringed. “Why would I have a bucket of blood here? Why would I ever have anything like that ever? It’s just so totally not like me!”

“Well then, what is it?” Anivia asked again, leaning closer to the bucket.

“You’re made of ice, right?” Pinkie asked, opening the blue bucket and rummaging through many drawers before finding a comically large ladle.

“Well, I suppose you could say that.” Anivia said as Pinkie scooped up a ladle full of the blue liquid. “Why do you ask?”

“Because…” She said around the handle of the ladle, causing a little bit to splash out and stain her coat with a blue spot. Suddenly, she whipped her head around and splashed Anivia’s right wing with the substance.

“What in the world-” Anivia said, startled and trying to wave the liquid off as it soaked into her wing. “What is this?”

“It’s food coloring!” Pinkie squealed before turning to fill the ladle back up.

“I think I understand.” Lissandra said, pacing back and forth with her chin cradled in her thumb and forefinger. “So the Crystal Empire projects the feelings of its citizens across the globe. Very interesting.”

“Yes, my Queen.” The pony in front of her said. Her coat was black as could be, yet reflected the light in beams from its icy surface. Her mane and tail were made of like colored shards of black ice, small enough to emulate the movement of a regular pony’s tail but large enough to be individually seen. “The focal point of that power is the crystal heart. In case of emergency, it is the most desperately protected relic in the city.”

“And what of the rulers? This Shining Armor and Mi Amore Cadenza?” Lissandra asked, continuing her pacing.

“They both are very powerful in their own right.” The black ice pony said. “Prince Shining Armor is physically powerful and can erect powerful magic barriers. And Princess Mi Amore Cadenza can access her own array of powerful defensive and offensive spells. They are not to be taken lightly.”

“I see.” Lissandra said. “Tell me. What are the odds that I could enter the city undetected?”

“Not good, my Queen.” The pony said with a shake of her head. “There are many guards stationed within the city. And you would not be able to hide amongst ponies as you are.”

“Nor would you, I suppose.” Lissandra said, looking her subject up and down. “Speaking of which, how are you liking your new form, Miss Lustrous Glaive?” She asked, gently petting the ice pony behind her ears.

“I am grateful that you have given me this form. And these powers.” Lustrous Glaive said as she stomped a hoof, sending a trail of black ice across the room.

“Tell me.” Lissandra said, chuckling at how enamored her previous captive was with her new abilities. “How many friends might you be expecting in this search party of yours?”

“A standard search party is made up of four ponies.” Glaive said. “Three guards, and one commanding officer.”

“Not much…” Lissandra said, walking away. “But I suppose it’s a start.” She said, chuckling into her hand and enjoying the sound of her laughter echoing off the walls.

Rescue Gone Wrong

“So it’s a bird made of ice?” Sweetie Belle asked, walking alongside her older sister.

“Well yes, but she’s so much more than that as well.” Rarity said.

“But sis, I don’t get what’s so special about an ice sculpture.” Sweetie belle said. “I mean, it’s not like it’s alive or anything.”

“But she is alive.” Rarity said, smirking at her sister’s inevitable reaction.

“Oh, well that’s different then.” Sweetie Belle said, continuing to walk as the puzzle in her mind put itself together. “Wait, WHAT?!” she yelled as she stopped dead in her tracks.

“Anivia is far more than some ice sculpture.” Rarity giggled. “She is an elemental being from another world.” She said as Sugarcube Corner came into view.

“And she’s spending her time at Sugarcube Corner?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well yes, for now.” Rarity said. “I’m sure Pinkie Pie is showing her a good time. Or at least what Pinkie sees as a good time.”

“Is a giant ice bird really that interested in parties though?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I’m not convinced, no.” Rarity sighed. “And that is why I am going. I want to make sure Pinkie hasn’t scared her off. She means well, but she can be a bit… What is the word?”

“Spastic?” Sweetie chimed.

“That could work, yes.” Rarity nodded as they approached the bakery.

“And I can get some cupcakes while we’re here, right?” Sweetie Belle asked, her eyes shining.

“Honestly.” Rarity said, shaking her head as she put a hoof on the door. “I tell you there’s an ancient otherworldly ice phoenix in here, and you’re most interested in getting confectionary sweets.”

“Well we are going to a bakery.” Sweetie Belle said. “It would be different if we were going to a magic bird store or something.”

“I… I’m not even going to justify that with a response.” Rarity said as she pushed the door open and stepped inside. “Hello? Is anypony here?” she asked upon finding the shop empty.

“Rarity, is that you?” Pinkie Pie yelled from the kitchen. “Come in here, quick! It’s soooo cool!”

“What in Equestria could you be talking about?” Rarity asked as she walked toward the kitchen with Sweetie Belle just behind her.

“You know, cool? As in you gotta see this super fantabulous awesomeness!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Also, it can mean cold. So ice pun. Because, ya know; Ice bird and all.” She said, snorting a bit as she giggled.

“I’m not sure I find that joke particularly clever.” Anivia said, gaining Sweetie Belle’s attention.

“Who is that?” Sweetie asked as her eyes lit up again. “She sounds so pretty!” she said, bolting in front of Rarity into the kitchen.

“Now Sweetie, don’t run indoors or you could- WHAAA?!” Rarity gasped as she entered the kitchen and saw Anivia.

“See? I told you it was cool!” Pinkie said. She was covered in just about every color of the rainbow, her coat mottled with mostly blues and yellows and her mane almost totally green.

But what really caught their attention was Anivia. While her left wing and beak were a similar blue to how she initially looked, the rest of her coloration had completely changed. From the top of her head to the tip of her longest tail feather, Anivia had turned as white as snow. Her right wing and most of her talons had changed to an almost blood red color. The only other part that remained unchanged was the black horn in the center of her head.

“No matter how much food coloring I use, I just can’t get this part to change.” Pinkie said, prodding the horn with a hoof. “Oh well. Can’t be totally perfect I guess.”

“Pinkie Pie, what have you done to her?” Rarity asked, repeatedly looking to and from Anivia and Pinkie.

“I splashed food coloring all over her, duh.” Pinkie said.

“It was a very odd experience.” Anivia said.

“I’m so sorry about her, Anivia.” Rarity said. “She usually has more self control than- Wait, no, that’s not true.” She said, putting a hoof to her chin, trying to think of how to apologize correctly.

“You misunderstand.” Anivia said. “It was strange, to be sure, and I was very surprised at first. Overall however, this was not an unpleasant visit.”

“See? I knew you’d have fun once you loosened up a bit.” Pinkie said.

“Indeed.” Anivia nodded. “I haven’t looked like this in ages. It’s a marvelous coincidence that you knew what colors to put where without my telling you.”

“What coincidence?” Pinkie asked. “I chose all of the colors I used very carefully. I can’t get good results if I just go all willy-nilly with it.”

“But wait. You knew I would like this coloration?” Anivia asked.

“I guess it’s all a matter of opinion, but I like this skin the best.” Pinkie said with an innocent smile.

“Skin? Whatever do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“How could you possibly know?” Anivia questioned, beak slightly agape.

“Just a hunch.” Pinkie responded, earning unbelieving stares from everyone else in the room. “Oh, hi Sweetie Belle! I almost didn’t see you there.” She said, trotting over to Sweetie.

“H- hey Pinkie Pie.” Sweetie Belle stammered, still staring at Anivia.

“Hold on, I’ll go get you some sweets.” Pinkie said, leaving the room while humming a cheery tune.

“Yeah, sure.” Sweetie said, still in awe.

“My apologies.” Rarity said, patting her sister on the head. “Anivia, this is my little sister, Sweetie Belle.”

“Hi.” Sweetie said, barely moving at all.

“Greetings, young lady.” Anivia said, bowing slightly. “It is good to meet you.”

“Hi.” Sweetie said again, eyes wide as saucers.

“Sweetie Belle, don’t stare.” Rarity said as she gently shoved her sister. “It’s very rude.”

Sweetie Belle shook her head rapidly as if snapping out of a trance. “Oh my gosh! You’re amazing!” Sweetie shouted, zipping up to get a closer look at Anivia.

“She sure is energetic.” Anivia said.

“I’m sorry about her.” Rarity said.

“It is nothing.” Anivia assured her. “I am used to being regarded with such curiosity. Perhaps just not as… Overtly.” She said as Sweetie gently prodded her with a hoof.

“Anyways.” Rarity said, lifting her sister in a telekinetic field and plopping her down nearby. “I was wondering if you were ready to visit me at my boutique. I’m sure I could find a more… Relaxing way to entertain you.”

“I suppose.” Anivia said. “Just allow me to remove these colors before I leave.” She said before extending her wings with a flourish. As she did, a freezing whirlwind quickly blew through the room and whisked away the food coloring as tiny multicolored ice crystals. Once the ice had settled, Anivia ruffled her fresh blue feathers and looked down at Rarity. “So, shall we depart?”

Despite her earlier chiding of her sister, Rarity couldn’t help but stare blankly at the beauty she had just witnessed.

“Alright, ponies.” A crystal pony in golden armor said to the three silver armored ponies with him. “We’re on the lookout for Lustrous Glaive. Keep your eyes peeled, and shout out if you find any trace of her.”

“Yes sir!” The three crystal ponies shouted in unison as all four spread out to cover more ground.

Once the group was in formation, the lead pony dropped a blue bead from his saddlebag and crushed it underhoof. As he did, it sent out a visible pulse of magic that soared back towards the crystal palace.

“Lieutenant Bolero, sir?” One of the guards asked. “What was that just now?”

“A new precaution that Prince Shining Armor came up with.” Bolero explained. “He wants a signal from me every fifteen minutes on the dot. I have plenty in here, so we’ve got as much time to find Glaive as we should need.” He said, patting his saddlebag.

A few hours went by as they searched, Bolero sending the necessary signals back to the palace as instructed. About two and a half hours later, an unexpected snowstorm set upon them. “Who’s in charge of this weather?” One of the search ponies asked loud enough for the others to hear.

“I don’t know.” The lead pony grumbled. “But I’ll have them jailed for interfering with a search and rescue operation.”

“Sir! I think I’ve found something!” One of the other guards shouted as he began waving a hoof in the air.

“What’ve you got? Did you find her?” The leader asked as all three converged on his location.

“No.” He said as he held up a snow-covered spear. “Just her weapon.”

“Alright. I think we can safely say that something happened to Glaive.” Bolero said. “She isn’t careless enough to drop her weapon like this. Everypony, get back in formation and continue the search.”

“Yes sir!” The other three sounded off as they returned to their positions.

They walked two and a half more hours in the rapidly intensifying blizzard. Finally, ten beads later, they managed to find something in the wastes.

“Help! Somepony help!” A female voice called through the snow.

“That must be her!” Lieutenant Bolero shouted before pulling a green bead from his saddlebag and stomping it. “Glaive! Hold tight! We’re on our way!” He shouted as the four ponies rushed ahead towards the voice.

As they ran forward, a particularly strong draft swept the snow into a white sheet between Bolero and his followers. The rushing wind blocked out the guards’ cries of surprise as the lead pony kept running towards the voice.

“Lieutenant Bolero? Is that you?” Lustrous Glaive asked as the lead pony approached.

“It’s okay, Glaive.” Bolero said as he approached. “We’ll get you back to the city.”

“Thank goodness.” Glaive sighed. “I was worried you’d never manage to find me in this blizzard.” She said, her form still shrouded by the gale.

“We always find our pony, don’t we boys?” He asked, turning back and realizing that his entourage was nowhere to be seen. “Boys?”

“What’s the matter?” Glaive asked, her voice suddenly cold. “Are you lost now too?” She said, taking a few steps towards Bolero.

“Glaive, what’s going on here?” Lieutenant Bolero asked, looking around in sudden desperation for his backup. “Sound off!” He shouted at the top of his lungs.

Almost in response, Bolero heard the echoing screams of his men in the distance. “Sweet Celestia, what is happening?” He whispered, falling to his haunches in the snow as panic really began to set in.

“No, not Celestia.” Glaive said as she walked into view. Bolero’s jaw dropped when he saw her new form. “Your Queen is Lissandra, now.” She said as her eyes began to glow. Bolero’s hooves instantly froze to the ground, preventing him from making any movements.

“A good catch, Miss Glaive.” Lissandra said as she came up from behind Bolero and gently stroked an icy finger along his neck. “I get the feeling he will enjoy serving me as much as his friends.” She said as she dug a fingernail into the side of his neck, leaving a black ice shard and making him yelp in pain before succumbing to a seizing fit.

Before he lost consciousness, Bolero saw three more ponies like Glaive emerge from the direction of his men’s screams.

“Five subjects is a start, I suppose.” Lissandra said. “But I will need more for my plan to succeed. You three!” She shouted as she turned to the three newest converts. “Are there any outlying settlements near your empire?”

“No, my queen.” The ice pony in question asked, ignorant of his former commander writhing on the ground in front of him. “But there should be more coming eventually for us.”

“This is hilarious.” Lissandra chuckled as Bolero’s transformation completed. “They’ll really be dumb enough to send a search party after the search party?”

“Prince Shining Armor cares very much for us, my Queen.” Bolero said, shaking a bit of snow off as he stood up.

“How many times do you suppose this will repeat?” Lissandra asked.

“As many times as we need to!” Shining Armor shouted at his guard captain.

“But sir, I-”

“I gave Lieutenant Bolero specific instructions to send me a signal every fifteen minutes as long as he and his men were out there.” Shining said, beginning to pace. “He followed through until the mission complete signal was sent. I haven’t gotten anything in the hour since.”

“Well maybe they’re on their way back.” The guard captain asserted. “Not too much of a stretch if the last message was the all clear.”

“I was very clear with Bolero that he should never stop sending updates until he got to the city gates.” Shining Armor said with a sigh. “I want them found immediately.”

“But if there is something out there, do you really think we should send another search party?” The guard captain asked. “What’s to keep them from getting lost as well?”

“I’ll have an escort with them this time.” Shining Armor said. “Who is your most capable pegasus in the guard?”

“Well, we don’t have many pegasi here.” The captain said, rubbing his chin. “As you know, the crystal guard is made up almost entirely of crystal ponies.”

“I know we have a few other types of ponies here.” Shining said. “We have at least five pegasi in the guard. Which one is the best at navigation?”

“Off the top of my head?” The captain asked, shifting his eyes slightly as he thought. “Well I suppose that would be the newest one. I believe his name is Flash Sentry.”

“Get him.” Shining said. “I want him sent out with the next team as soon as they’re ready.”

“Of course, Prince Shining Armor.” The guard captain said, giving a short bow as Shining Armor left the room. “I hope he knows what he’s doing.” He thought as he stood up. “You there.” He said, turning to another crystal guard. “Bring me Lieutenant Gleaming Shield and her team. Also, find Flash Sentry for me.”

“I’m on it, Captain.” He said with a salute before galloping off.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about all of this.” The captain sighed. “But orders are orders. I just hope it works out.”

“So you are a fashion designer?” Anivia asked as she ducked through the door into carousel boutique.

“The finest in all of Ponyville.” Rarity said. “Though I honestly don’t have much competition in the area to begin with.”

“I wouldn’t think so.” Anivia said, earning her a confused look. “I apologize. I meant nothing about your town.” She said, quickly realizing what she had said. “I just haven’t actually seen many ponies wearing clothes. Dressmaking doesn’t sound like a very lucrative business in this world.”

“Well not around here, I suppose.” Rarity said. “Most of my work is done by commission. Most of my contracts are orders from Canterlot and other more metropolitan areas.”

“I suppose I could see that.” Anivia said. “So clothing in general is more of a high-class following here?”

“I get why you might think that.” Rarity said, moving over to a mannequin and retrieving a hat from it. “And you aren’t entirely incorrect. Clothing is generally more of a luxury except in specific professions. But enough about me and my work.” Rarity said, levitating the hat over Anivia’s head and allowing it to gently drift down to her. “I’d like to hear about you.”

“You already know most of the basic details about me.” Anivia said, allowing the wide brimmed hat to rest on her head. “I’ve told you about where I’m from, and what I do there. What else would you like to know?”

“Actually, I’m very curious about your feathers.” Rarity said. “They seem more like ice than actual feathers. Do you grow them naturally, or are they made from ice around you?”

“My feathers?” Anivia asked. “I honestly never expected to talk about them.”

“If it is an unpleasant subject, then we can move on to something else.” Rarity said quickly.

“Oh, no.” Anivia said, raising a wing briefly. “Nothing unpleasant about it. Simply not something I expected to discuss. To answer your question though, they do grow naturally.” She said. “They are formed of never-melting true ice. A pure substance created of the Freljord’s inherent magical power.”

“I see. So I suppose you don’t molt like regular birds do then.” Rarity said sounding slightly disappointed.

“I do not molt on a cycle, no.” Anivia said. “But my feathers will quickly grow back to replace any lost in battle or careless movement. Why are you so interested in them anyways?”

“Well to be frank, they are simply marvelous.” Rarity complimented. “I had hoped that I could convince you to help me with a few designs.”

“I’m not sure I would be able to help you.” Anivia said. “In all my years, I never learned the first thing about fashion design.”

“Oh, you wouldn’t need to help me with that specifically.” Rarity said. “I feel a little selfish asking you for this, but I was wondering if you could lend me some feathers for my designs in progress. I just know that they would be perfect for this client.”

“I see no harm in that.” Anivia said with a shrug. “How many do you think you will need?”

“So you all know your mission?” The crystal pony guard captain asked.

“Yes, sir.” Lieutenant Gleaming Shield said. “We are to find Lustrous Glaive, as well as Lieutenant Bolero’s rescue team.”

“And as you also know, we will be sending cadet Flash Sentry with you as air support. You will be counting on him for aerial reconnaissance.” The guard captain said.

“I won’t let you down, Captain Rockhoof, sir!” Flash Sentry said with a salute.

“Good. Now move out! Time is of the essence. Lieutenant, Prince Shining Armor will be expecting a signal from you every fifteen minutes on the dot. Do not be late.” Rockhoof said.

“Understood, sir.” Gleaming Shield said with a nod. “Ponies! Move out!” She ordered as she made an about face, her unit following suit in unison except for Flash Sentry. A moment later, Flash mirrored the motion and the five ponies left the palace.

“With the power you have already displayed, I feel that it shouldn’t be much longer before I make my move.” Lissandra said, addressing her five ice pony subjects. “Perhaps the next search party will be enough. After all, I doubt your leaders will be expecting anything like me.”

“As long as we maintain an element of surprise, we should be able to get inside before a barrier can be erected.” Lustrous Glaive said.

“So when do you think we can expect this new group of thralls?” Lissandra asked, turning to face Bolero.

“It has been a few hours since I sent the last signal to the palace.” Bolero said. “I expect the prince should be sending a team out for us shortly.”

“Then waste no time in preparing yourselves.” Lissandra said. “Be ready to intercept them quickly so that my plan may commence. By this time tomorrow, the crystal empire shall be my new seat of power in this world.” “One thing is still bothering me though.” Lissandra thought as she watched her ice ponies depart. “Whatever happened to Anivia?”

“Again, I really can’t thank you enough for this.” Rarity said as she placed the last true ice feather in the headdress of her new outfit. “I’m sure Sapphire Shores will absolutely adore this.”

“I’m glad that I could help as well.” Anivia said, looking no worse for wear. “I may as well make myself useful while I’m in your world.”

“There she is, girls!” Sweetie Belle shouted as she poked her head in the doorway.

“Whoa!” “My goodness!” Two more voices exclaimed as two other young fillies walked into the room.

“Sweetie Belle, really?” Rarity asked. “Anivia isn’t some sideshow attraction for your friends.”

“I never said she was!” Sweetie Belle asserted, walking up behind her friends. “I just want to introduce them to her. Scootaloo, Applebloom, this is Anivia.” She said pointing her hooves dramatically at her.

“Goodness. More children?” Anivia asked. “It is a pleasure to meet all of you.” She said, giving a slight bow.

“So cool!” Scootaloo shouted, her little wings fluttering with excitement.

“She’s so pretty!” Applebloom said, walking closer and staring up at Anivia in awe. “But that doesn’t look quite right.” She said, pointing up at Anivia’s black ice horn.

“Applebloom, honestly.” Rarity said. “You might be right, but there is no need to go pointing it out like that.” She said before quickly clamming up. “Sorry Anivia. I mean no offense.”

“None taken, I assure you.” Anivia said. “In fact, I can’t stand the sight of the thing myself.” She said, idly rubbing the horn with a wingtip.

“But what’s wrong with having a horn?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Isn’t it how you use your magic?”

“Not at all.” Anivia said, shaking her head. “In fact, I feel my magic has grown weaker over the time I’ve had it.”

“Nonsense.” A voice in Anivia’s head hissed.

“So wait a minute.” Rarity said. “You weren’t born with that horn?”

“That’s right.” Anivia said. “I forgot that I only spoke of this with your Princess. This thing on my head should not still be here after my rebirth in your world. It was put there by an evil sorceress, Lissandra.”

At the mention of Lissandra’s name, the air in the boutique seemed to chill as Anivia’s horn pulsed with a dark energy. The cryophoenix winced as a jolt of pain shot through her body.

“Anivia, are you alright?” Rarity asked as Anivia began to wobble.

“I… I…” Anivia struggled to find words.

“I’ve never felt better.” The dark voice in Anivia’s mind growled as Anivia’s vision darkened around the edges.

“What…” Anivia said as she wobbled a bit more. “What is happening to me?”

“Something magnificent.” The voice in her head said before breaking out into an evil laugh. And then Anivia fell, and all was dark.

Frosted Crystals

“Anivia… Please…” Anivia could hear muffled voices echoing through the darkness.

“Who… Is that?” Anivia asked as she struggled to focus on the voices.

“Is she okay?” Another voice asked.

“What happened to her?”

“What happened to me?” Anivia asked just before jagged shards of black ice jutted into view.

“Poor little hatchling.” A feminine voice mocked. “You are not yet prepared for your ascendance.”

“Hatchling?” Anivia asked, feeling slightly more lucid even as the black ice crystals grew. “Who are you, to speak to me in such a manner?”

“I am your future.” The voice dark said, the black crystals jutting further into Anivia’s vision. “Your next inevitable step on the road to ultimate power.”

“I desire not for ultimate power.” Anivia said, shaking her head.

“She moved!” One of the distant voices shouted.

“Is she waking up?”

“Of course you want power.” The darker voice said, drowning out the others. “How else will you ever defeat the Ice Witch?”

“The Ice Witch will be felled by the descendant of Avarosa. I am to be her guide and protector.” Anivia said.

“Is that so?” The dark voice asked. “How do you plan to protect her in this world? Hmm?”

“When I return, I will-”

“IF, you return.” The voice corrected. “But Lissandra is here. I can feel it. And you can too, if you only take the opportunity you now have.”

“What’s wrong with her?” Another muffled voice asked.

“She looks like she’s having a terrible dream.” Another said.

“Let us ignore these fools for now.” The dark voice said as black ice shards crept further into Anivia’s vision and muffled the concerned voices further. “There. Isn’t that better now?”

Anivia recognized the voice now. It was her own.

“Begone!” Anivia shouted as her magic surged to life, only to be pitifully snuffed out by the black ice.

“Struggle all you want.” Anivia’s dark voice said. “You will submit to your power eventually. There is no stopping-” Suddenly, a raging inferno interrupted Anivia’s dark half and drove the black ice away. “It won’t be long now!” The Dark voice screamed in agony. “This minor setback means nothing! You will submit!” She shouted just before the light became too bright to bear.

“Alright, ponies!” Gleaming Shield shouted once they got to the gates of the Crystal Empire. She turned to face her unit. “You all know the mission. Shout out if you find any trace of the targets. Flash Sentry, I want you in the air making sure we don’t miss anything. Am I understood?”

“Yes, Lieutenant!” The collected troops shouted as they got into the standard line formation. Flash Sentry took off into the sky, staying low enough to hear orders without the commander having to strain her voice.

“Very good.” Gleaming Shield nodded. “Now, forward march!” She shouted as she stomped a blue bead from her saddlebag, sending the first magical signal back to Shining Armor.

Barely an hour and a half into their search, strange weather phenomena began to manifest in the form of heavy clouds and biting winds. Flash Sentry was having trouble maintaining a steady altitude in these conditions.

“Flash! Navigation ain’t your only job! Why don’t you bust some of these clouds?” One of the crystal guards shouted.

“Right! I’m on it!” Flash called back as he began to ascend. As he disappeared into the clouds, the storm seemed to intensify briefly on the ground. A few seconds later though, sunlight streamed through a hole in the cloud cover. A few more seconds, and the hole was now a large gash in the sky. As more sunlight flooded down to the guards, the storm began to dwindle.

“Good work, Cadet!” Gleaming Shield shouted. “Keep it up!”

Just as Flash cleared the last of the weather in their way, he saw a strange glint in the distance. “Hey guys, I think I see something over there!” He shouted, pointing in the direction of the light.

“We see it too!” Gleaming called. “We’re headed in that direction now. Stay close.”

“Yes ma’am!” Flash said with a salute as he rejoined his team.

A few minutes of trotting later, the group came across a tall black shard of ice protruding from the ground. “What is that?” One of the guard ponies asked, stepping closer.

“I don’t know.” Gleaming Shield said, also stepping up to study it more closely. “It doesn’t look like any crystal I’ve ever seen.”

“Honestly, I’m getting chills just looking at it.” Another guard said, making sure to keep his distance.

“Well at any rate, this isn’t what we’re looking for.” Gleaming Shield said, turning her back to the strange ice formation. “We’ve wasted enough time here. Let’s get moving.” She said as the ice shard began to grow tiny needle-like spines.

“Lieutenant! Watch out!” Flash Sentry shouted as he tackled Gleaming Shield to the side just before the shard launched a group of ice needles in all directions. The needles missed Flash and Gleaming, and they bounced off the armor of the guards further back. However, the one guard closest to the trap was jabbed with several of the needles.

“Ow! What the- AUGH!” The guard groaned as the ice shards melted into his flesh. Within seconds, he was convulsing violently on the ground.

“What in Equestria?” Lieutenant Gleaming Shield asked as she and Flash stood up.

“Don’t worry.” A masculine voice said. “He’ll be better than fine in a short while.” When they turned to the source of the voice, the group of guards was face to face with a squad five ponies made apparently of black ice.

“Whatever you are, I command you to stand down at once!” Gleaming Shield ordered, putting herself between the opposition and her fallen subordinate.

“Why Gleaming Shield, I’m hurt.” The ice pony in front said with mock sadness. “Don’t you recognize me?” He asked as he tossed a Crystal Empire Lieutenant’s badge into the snow in front of Gleaming. “I mean, I’m only your fiancée.”

“Bolero?” Gleaming Shield asked, dropping her guard as her mouth opened in shock.

“Now!” Bolero shouted as the other four ice ponies leapt into action. One ice pony leapt towards each remaining guard. The crystal pony furthest back was subdued quickly, and began convulsing on the ground after being bitten by his attacker. The second guard was more focused though, and managed to throw his attacker away. Unfortunately, the ice pony landed on its hooves and released a flurry of icy needles from its mouth, jabbing the guard in the side and reducing him to a writhing mess like his companions.

“Lieutenant, move!” Flash Sentry shouted as he shoved Gleaming Shield out of the way of another attack, taking a hit from an ice needle in the process. “AUGH!” Flash grunted as the icy needle sunk into his flesh and melted, leaving a very small puncture wound. “Why does it hurt so much?!” Flash wondered, not seeing any major physical damage but feeling like his joints were freezing solid.

“Flash, were you hit?” Gleaming Shield asked just before seeing the small puncture.

“Yeah, but I’m fine.” Flash said through gritted teeth. “Just get out of here.”

“Oh, I don’t think you’ll be going anywhere.” Bolero said, freezing them both to the ground with an icy blast of energy. “Now dear. Don’t bother struggling. It’ll only make the process more painful than it has to be.”

“Stop!” Gleaming Shield shouted, looking Bolero straight in the eyes. For some reason, Bolero found himself unable to move. “What happened to you?” She asked, tears beginning to form in her eyes. “What monster did this to you?”

“I… I don’t… Honey?” Bolero stammered, beginning to hold his head with one hoof.

“I believe that will be enough.” Lissandra’s voice cooed as the black ice trap shifted its features and became the Ice Witch.

“My Queen!” Bolero and the other ice ponies shouted as they each bowed down to Lissandra. Looking around quickly, Flash Sentry realized that there were now more ice ponies than there were before, and the guards he had arrived with were nowhere to be seen.

“Why do you hesitate, Bolero?” Lissandra asked. “Some bit of you still holding on in there?” She asked, stroking her pet’s chin with an icy fingernail before swiftly turning around and slashing Gleaming Shield across the face with that same finger. “Worry not. You will be reunited with your lover under my service very soon.” She said. “But what of you?” She asked, turning to face Flash Sentry.

“Wh-what are you?” Flash asked, beginning to shiver from both fear and the cold feeling running through his body.

“My name is Lissandra, and I am to be your new Queen.” She said, gently petting Flash behind the ear. “But why is it that you can resist me? My black ice flows within you, but you do not change like the others.”

“Maybe it’s because he’s a pegasus?” One of the ice ponies suggested.

“Lustrous Glaive?” Flash asked, recognizing the voice. “Is that you?”

“I also noticed that his appearance is quite dissimilar to your previous forms.” Lissandra said, studying Flash up and down. “We will discuss why I was not informed of these racial variations later. For now, it is time that we returned.” Lissandra said as she and the ice ponies disappeared into the snow, taking Flash Sentry with them.

“NO!” Anivia shouted as she bolted awake, startling the four ponies seated around her. Fluttershy in particular was almost touching the roof of her cottage. “What? Where am I? What happened?” Anivia asked.

“Rarity told us ya had a bit of a faintin’ spell.” Applejack said as Fluttershy began to float back down. “She watching the little ones, and Twilight’s looking through some books for a way to wake ya. But it looks like Princess Celestia beat her to it.” She said, looking over at a perch with a bright orange bird on it.

“This is Philomena.” Fluttershy said, flying over to the perched phoenix. “She spent the last half hour shining bright lights to wake you up. Didn’t you?” She said, nuzzling the phoenix and causing it to blush slightly.

“Thank you, Philomena.” Anivia said, stretching her wings. I remember some mention of phoenixes in your world, but I must admit that I did not expect to meet one during my stay. It is a pleasure.” She said, giving a slight bow. Philomena returned the gesture with a flourish.

“Sorry to interrupt this meeting and all, but what the hay even happened?” Rainbow Dash asked, cutting in front of Applejack. “All we know is you passed out, and now the crusaders are freaking out.”

“Crusaders?” Anivia asked.

“Those young’uns you were talking to before you fainted.” Applejack said. “They’re right terrified that you might be hurt.”

“Well I’m not sure why I lost consciousness.” Anivia said, rubbing her head with a wingtip. “But I’m feeling well enough for now.”

“By the way, what were you dreaming about?” Pinkie Pie asked. “It looked like you were having a super duper scary nightmare dream.”

“I… I’m afraid I don’t remember my dream. I can’t shake the feeling that it was important though.” She said, losing herself in thought for several seconds before Rainbow Dash gave a rough cough.

“So anyways, maybe some conversation will help jog your memory.” She suggested, obviously wanting to ask something.

“I suppose it’s as good an idea as any.” Anivia shrugged. “What would you like to talk about?”

“Remember Rainbow Dash, she just woke up.” Fluttershy said. “She’s probably still a little tired, so don’t pressure her too much.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Rainbow said. “She doesn’t have to answer if she doesn’t want to. Anyways, my question.”

“Yes, ask me whatever you like.” Anivia said, urging Rainbow on.

“You said you’re some kind of champion in a fighting arena, right?” Rainbow asked.

“Are you sure this is something you should be askin’ about right now?” Applejack asked.

“It’s quite alright.” Anivia said, gently raising a wing to ease Applejack’s objection. “I suppose you could call it that, yes. I serve as a champion in the League of Legends.”

“Just what kind of following does that have?” Rainbow asked.

“Rainbow, ah know where yer going with this.” Applejack said. “I don’t imagine somepony like Anivia would fight others fer fame and glory and whatnot.”

“That is true. I do not.” Anivia said. “I fight in the League because I need to take a more active stance in the defense of my world. If I can best oppose corruption by fighting, then I will fight.”

“Oh, so it’s just for people who have a real stake in your world’s future.” Rainbow Dash said, obviously disappointed.

“I did not mean to imply that.” Anivia said. “There are many different champions, and they all have their own reasons for joining the League. Some fight for their nations, some for their crimes, and others simply for themselves.”

“Themselves, huh?” Rainbow asked. “So I guess there must be some kind of perks to the whole thing, right?”

“Oh yes.” Anivia said. “Each champion is after different things. Some compete for the money, while others compete for the notoriety. Rest assured that in most cases, there are certain benefits to being a champion. Wealth and power are rather commonplace among them.”

“Rainbow Dash, you can’t be serious.” Fluttershy said. “Do you actually want to fight against others and hurt them just so that you can be famous?”

“Hey, I bet Anivia’s been through lots of fights. She doesn’t look like she’s been hurt too bad.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Oh, on the contrary.” Anivia said. “I have perished in combat many times in League matches. Every champion has.”

“Wait, what?” All four ponies shouted in unison.

“It is… Complicated.” Anivia said. “The League wouldn’t keep champions for long if they didn’t have a way to keep them alive after death. As such, death is but a temporary inconvenience within league sanctioned battles. Powerful magics are invoked to return the fallen to life. However, it takes longer for the spell to complete as the fight continues. In the time between, it is something like an out of body experience.”

“Wow. That sounds really weird!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Not to mention spooky.” Applejack said. “Ya die, and then ya just poof back to life? I can’t even begin to imagine what that feels like.”

“If you are truly interested in becoming a League champion, then you would not be the first being from a different world to do so.” Anivia said. “Consider it. But for now, I believe that is all I can tell you.”

“And you’re sure that you did not overlook any other important details?” Lissandra asked Lustrous Glaive as she looked up at Flash Sentry struggling against his icy restraints.

“No, my Queen.” Lustrous Glaive said. “Earth ponies, pegasi, unicorns, crystal ponies, bat ponies and alicorns. That is all.”

“I see your species is far more varied than I initially thought.” Lissandra said. “No matter. It is but a small setback. It changes nothing about my plans. The process is slow, but I can feel this pegasus’s resistance fading. I believe the numbers I have here should be enough to mount an offensive of some effectiveness. Especially considering how quickly you crystal ponies seem to convert.”

“Should we prepare for an assault on the Crystal Empire, my Queen?” Lustrous Glaive asked.

“Not yet.” Lissandra said. “Alert me when the pegasus has come around to our side. Once he has, we will begin planning our eventual attack.” She said as she turned around and left Lustrous Glaive alone with Flash Sentry.

“Glaive, how could you?” Flash asked. “You were one of the Crystal Empire’s most loyal protectors. I remember you kicked my flank for even suggesting that the Canterlot guards had more discipline than the Empire.”

“Things change, Flash.” Glaive said. “You’ll see soon enough. This black ice is a beautiful thing. Full of such power.” She said as she began to pace back and forth. “I was prepared to die to protect the Crystal Empire. I still want to help it. But Queen Lissandra opened my eyes to the fact that the best way to help my nation is to help her.”

“I don’t believe…” Flash Sentry began, but grunted and hung his head before resuming. “I don’t believe I didn’t see it sooner. This Lissandra is so… Powerful. There’s no point in trying to resist.”

“See? You’re getting it.” Lustrous Glaive said. “Here. Let me get you out of there.” She said as she undid the first of Flash’s front bindings.

“I can’t believe I didn’t see.” He said as the second binding was removed. “I can’t believe I didn’t know.” He said as his first rear hoof was released. “I can’t believe…” He paused until he heard the last shackle click open. “I can’t believe it was that easy.” He said, using his suddenly free hoof to kick Lustrous Glaive as hard as he could. As she sailed across the floor, Flash Sentry flew in the opposite direction. Out of the cave and towards the Crystal Empire. “I have to warn the Empire!” Flash thought as he flew as fast as his wings would carry him, ignoring the piercing cold throughout his body.

“Glaive, what have you done!” Lissandra shouted, appearing just in front of her subject.

“I was tricked!” Glaive cried. “He-”

“No excuses!” Lissandra shouted, slapping Glaive across the face with the back of her hand. “Because of your gullibility, we have lost our element of surprise. He will not convert before he warns the others. We have no choice but to attack now.”

“I’m sorry, my Queen.” Glaive whimpered as she stood back up.

“I don’t want apologies. Only solutions.” Lissandra said as the other eight ice ponies appeared around her. “We strike at the crystal empire immediately. Convert or capture anyone you find. Leave the royalty and the crystal heart to me. I want to ensure that they are all taken care of, personally.” She said as she and her subjects disappeared into the frost.

“This can’t be happening. Not again!” Shining Armor shouted as he paced back and forth in the throne room.

“Shining, please calm down.” Princess Cadence said, putting a hoof on her husband’s shoulder.

“How can I calm down?” Shining asked, brushing his lover’s hoof away. “Because of my stupid decisions, we’ve lost ten ponies out in the tundra!”

“You weren’t being stupide, dear.” Cadence said. “You were just desperate to find Lustrous Glaive. Once the first team went missing, you were even more determined to find them too.”

“But I sent so many ponies out there without knowing the risks. I sent them out blind to find one pony in all that snow.” Shining said, sitting down and putting his head in his hooves. “I haven’t gotten a signal from Gleaming Shield in over an hour. I just don’t know what to do at this point.”

“I don’t know either.” Cadence sighed. “But you had to send those squads out there. Finding Lustrous Glaive was important, and the second team ideally would have been able to find out what was happening.”

“And none of them could make it back.” Shining said. “I’ve… I’ve never actually lost anypony before.” He said, looking off into the distance. “How am I supposed to find them if everyone I send gets lost too?”

“I don’t know.” Cadence said. “But I know you’ll make the right decision. These crystal ponies look up to you for more than just your title.” She said, giving Shining Armor a quick kiss on the cheek. “And I married you for more than your looks. You’re smart. You’ll think of something.”

“Thanks.” Shining Armor said, smiling a little bit. “I just wish I had an idea where to start.”

Cadence opened her mouth to speak, but was interrupted when one of the large windows shattered as Flash Sentry fell through it. “Princess Cadence… Prince Shining Armor…” Flash groaned as he tried to stand only to double over in pain.

“Flash Sentry?!” Shining exclaimed, rushing to Flash’s side. “What happened? Where are the others?”

“We were… Attacked.” Flash said, managing to stand this time on shaky legs with Shining’s help. “A tall monster… That can control ice.” He said, falling down again. “She’s brainwashed the others… And they’re going to attack the Empire… They’ve got strange powers… Probably… On. Their. Way.” Flash Sentry gave a long sigh and lost consciousness.

“Shining, move over.” Cadence said, her horn already glowing with a healing spell as she pushed Shining Armor aside.

“He said there was going to be an attack.” Shining Armor said, realization hitting him a couple seconds later. “He said there’s going to be an attack!” He repeated, immediately leaping to action. “Cadence, get Flash Sentry to the infirmary! I’m going to rally the guards!” Shining ordered as he began sprinting towards the barracks, the guards in the throne room following him there.

“Prince Shining Armor, please come quickly!” A crystal pony wearing a messenger’s cap shouted just before Shining reached the door to the barracks. “Something has happened near the city gate!”

“What’s the situation? Report!” Shining said, motioning the guards with him to alert the barracks ahead of him.

“The entire southern district has been frozen over!” The messenger pony said through ragged breaths. “Everything from the city gate to the edge of the crystal fairgrounds was encased in black ice last I saw!”

“Then we’ll go there first.” Shining said before turning to the barracks. “Are you ready to move yet?” He asked as he went inside. “What in Equestria?!”

The entire interior of the barracks was covered in black ice. Every guard had been incapacitated, either being encased in ice or convulsing violently on the ground.

“Prince Shining Armor, what is it?” The messenger pony asked as she peeked through the doorway. “AUGH! How is it already here?!” She screamed just before a jagged shard of ice flew straight at Shining Armor.

“Look out!” Shining yelled as he shoved the messenger to the side, causing the shard of ice to miss completely and embed itself into the wall behind them.

“Hello Prince Shining Armor.” A voice from inside the barracks said. “I’m sorry I missed. I know you trained us better than that.”

“Wait a minute. Bolero?” Shining said, squinting as a pony with large reflective icy plates for a coat emerged from the barracks.

“You always did pride yourself on knowing your soldiers.” Bolero said as he shifted one of his ice armor plates. “But I never thought you could recognize me with voice alone.”

“What happened to you? What have you done?” Shining asked, making sure to keep the messenger pony behind him.

“I know this looks bad from where you’re standing.” Bolero said, taking a few steps closer. “But rest assured that this is all for the empire’s benefit.”

“What are you talking about?” Shining asked as the hall began freezing around him. “You’re assisting a hostile being in an assault on your own empire!”

“It’s okay. We all know you and Princess Cadence are amazing leaders.” Bolero said. “I would gladly have laid my life down for either of you. Unfortunately for the two of you, Lissandra is just much more powerful.”

“Lissandra?” Shining asked. “Who is this Lissandra?”

“Oh, you’ll be meeting her soon enough.” Bolero said as several more ice ponies emerged from the barracks. “And then you’ll be able to share in this power as well.” Just as Shining Armor grabbed the messenger and turned to flee, a giant sheet of ice cut off their escape. “Hold them down! Lissandra wants to take care of the prince personally.”

“Whatever happens, just stay near me. Okay?” Shining asked, turning his head to speak to the messenger. She just whimpered and nodded in response.

“What do you plan to do?” Bolero asked. “You have nowhere to run, and even you can’t fight us like this.”

“Now! Follow me!” Shining yelled as he bolted to the side. He made a leap towards the wall, sheathing himself in magical energy as he did. Charged with magic, Shining Armor burst through the wall as if it didn’t exist. Unfortunately, the messenger pony hesitated. She was struck from the side by one of the advancing ice ponies as the hole in the wall was filled out by black ice.

As Shining Armor fell, he altered his magic aura towards his legs and positioned himself for a landing. As he hit the ground, he kicked up a massive cloud of dust as the ground beneath his hooves cracked and impacted itself. “Well now. How very theatric.” A sultry voice said as the dust began to clear.

“Who’s there? Show yourself!” Shining Armor commanded as he searched for the source of the voice. A few seconds later, the dust from Shining’s fall began to settle. As it did, it revealed that Shining Armor and the crystal heart were surrounded on all sides by ice ponies Shining’s eyes went wide with fear when he realized how grimly outnumbered he was.

“Strong body, horn, powerful magic?” The feminine voice asked as Lissandra approached through the horde of ice ponies, each pony stepping aside as she walked. “You must be Prince Shining Armor.”

“And you must be the monster behind this!” Shining said, glaring daggers at Lissandra. “What do you want from us?”

“I already have what I need from you, Shining Armor.” Lissandra said, motioning to the vast number of ice ponies surrounding them. “You yourself sent me the first few groups of soldiers. And now, thanks to you, I’ve managed to bring together an entire army.” She said, approaching Shining Armor and running her fingers through his mane. Shining only stood in shock, his mouth wide open.

“But… No, I-” Shining Armor stammered, unable to piece together the threat he so wanted to say.

“You have done so much for me already.” Lissandra said. “But I need one more small favor from you. The crystal heart. Now stand aside.” She said with a wave of her hand.

At the mention of the crystal heart, Shining Armor seemed to find new strength. “No! My mistakes might have caused this, but I will NOT let you take the crystal heart.” He said, now standing defiantly.

Lissandra sighed before chuckling a bit. “Very well. I suppose I shouldn’t be too surprised. You’ve made it a habit to make bad judgment calls thus far. Why stop now?”

“That’s it!” Shining Armor shouted as he made a furious leap towards Lissandra. Just before reaching her though, he was impaled cleanly by a spear of black ice. “AUGH!” Shining Armor coughed up a small amount of blood, staining his otherwise white coat. His ears perked up a bit however, and his horn pulsed a purple spark as he shut his eyes and winced in pain.

“Now there.” Lissandra said, shushing him as the spike began freezing Shining Armor’s body solid, starting with the wound site. “I may have use for you yet. Just consider this a warning to yourself, and your subjects.” She said, turning to face the wide eyes of her ice ponies. More than a few of them were gaping in shock, Lustrous Glaive among them. “I don’t know how long it would take to bend you to my will. So I’ll play it safe for the time being.” She said as the spike finished freezing Shining Armor to the spot. “I may be back for you later. For now though, you will make a nice ornament along with this crystal heart of yours.” She said as she encased the crystal heart in a tomb of black ice. Just as the crystal heart was fully consumed by black ice, Shining Armor’s horn let out one more dim, purple spark.

“Okay, Flash.” Cadence said as she released her levitation spell to drop the unconscious Flash Sentry onto a medical bed. “This should help with your condition.” She said as she cast a powerful healing spell on him to no effect. “Come on! Why isn’t this working?” She groaned in frustration just before she heard a loud crash from outside. “Hang on.” She said to Flash. “I’ll be right back.” She said as she flew out the window to see what was happening.

When she looked near the crystal heart, all she could see was a large cloud of dust. After it settled, Shining Armor was face to face with a being that Cadence had never seen before. “Are they talking? I can’t hear what they’re saying.” Cadence said, moving a little closer so that she could hear better.

“That’s it!” She heard Shining Armor yell just before being impaled on a spear of ice.

“Shining Armor, no!” Cadence screamed as she rushed forward. She stopped in midair however as she received a telekinetic message from Shining Armor.

“Don’t come near me!” Shining said in Cadence’s mind, coughing a little on his own blood. “She’s too powerful. You need to send for help. HURRY! Before it’s too… Late…” He sent as his horn pulsed one more pathetic time.

“Shiny…” Cadence whimpered with tears in her eyes. Every part of her was screaming at her to get down there and help her husband. It took all of her willpower to force herself back into the palace through the window she left it from.

Once inside, Cadence used her magic to take up a quill and sheet of paper from a nearby desk. “Auntie- No. Princess Celestia. The crystal empire has fallen. Mysterious forces have invaded the empire and breached the palace walls.” She thought, her mind giving life to the quill as it wrote her message. “Shining Armor and the crystal heart have both fallen. Please, send aid as soon as you can. The situation is dire, and we need as much help as you can spare. Signed, Princess Cadence.”

“There.” Cadence said as she rolled up the parchment in her magic and teleported it to Celestia.

“Princess Cadence.” Flash Sentry said. “What did you just send?”

“Flash! Are you alright? You were really out of-” Cadence stopped cold when she saw Flash Sentry. He was covered head to hoof in plates of black ice, and he glared at her intensely enough to send shivers down her spine.

“I’ll ask again, Princess.” Flash said, taking a step closer and fanning his now razor sharp, icy wings out. “What. Did you. Just. Send?” He said, taking a step closer with each punctuated word.

“Flash, hold on.” Cadence said, backing up until her flank was at the wall. “I can help you. I can bring you back to your senses. I just need some time.”

“Thanks for the offer.” Flash said before quickly flapping his wings forward and flash-freezing Cadence with a single enchanted gust. “But I like being just the way I am.” He said as Cadence’s frozen form tipped over and fell to the floor with a heavy clunk. Her face locked in a look of sheer terror and surprise.

“So you get stronger as you fight…” Rainbow Dash said. “But in the next fight, you start just as weak as you started the last time?”

“It is difficult to explain.” Anivia said. “It has to do with the mental link that champions share with their summoners. It takes time for the mental link to truly complete itself. As we fight, we get closer to the level of power we usually have outside the league without summoner interference. Each new league match means the beginning of a new mental link." Anivia explained, nodding her head slightly as she spoke.

“Hey guys.” Rainbow Dash said, idly rubbing her forehooves together. “Did it just get colder in here?” She asked, exhaling a visible breath.

“Yeah. Ah feel it too.” Applejack said, shivering a little bit.

“Anivia, do you know why it’s suddenly so cold?” Fluttershy asked.

“I’m not sure, but… Wait.” Anivia said, concentrating hard before doubling over in pain. As she groaned in agony, purple vein-like streaks of ice began extending over her face from the base of her horn. “It’s her!” Anivia suddenly screamed as she fanned out her wings and let loose a huge wave of ice.

The pulse of ice instantly froze everything it touched, blowing Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack and Pinkie Pie into the walls and freezing them in place. Philomena managed to shield herself in a ring of fire before she fell victim as well.

“Anivia, what gives?” Rainbow Dash shouted as she struggled against the ice.

“Git us down from here!” Applejack yelled, squirming as much as she could.

“Okay, this isn’t very much fun anymore. Please get us down now.” Pinkie Pie said, suddenly wearing a puffy winter jacket.

Ignoring her friends, Anivia took off into the sky, directly towards the crystal empire. Philomena paused briefly to consider the best course of action.

“Just go! There’s no t-time!” Fluttershy shouted through chattering teeth. “T-Twilight will be here soon w-with Rarity. Just m-make sure Anivia is okay.”

Philomena paused for a few seconds more before taking off after Anivia, trying to stay as close as she could.

Fluttershy looked over at each of her friends to see them all giving her angry stares. “Um. S-Sorry.” She said, blushing as Rainbow Dash groaned on the other side of the room.