Reign of Discord

The large Manticore, chief of his pride, stood before Princess Luna. The runt of my family tells me you have come to save us. He said.

"That is correct, Chief." Luna replied cordially.

Then tell me...Princess...what exactly do we need saving from? We are safe in this forest. In this forest we are free. Forever. That is why it is called the Everfree Forest. We are not troubled by the magic of the outside world. The sun rises and sets here just as it always has, regardless of what goes on outside. The weather is not controlled by unicorns here. So tell me, why should we care about what goes on outside of our forest?"

Luna thought for a few minutes.  Then she spoke. "Answer me this, Chief," She said, "When did the Diamond Dogs first take residence in this forest?"

When the one calling himself Master conquered their lands.

"And the Phoenixes?"

When the Master conquered their lands...Princess.

"I hope you are noticing the trend. Granted, Discord cannot enter into the Everfree. But animals who seek refuge can. They upset the balance, Chief of the Manticores. You know this. When Discord is vanquished the Phoenixes and the Diamond Dogs can return to their homes. Your land will become yours again. Your water will not run as dry as it does now."

How can you guarantee this, Princess?

"I am the guardian of the night and it's creatures." Luna stated. "It is my duty."

What would you have us do? The manticore asked

"I wish to take the one I have named Scout." Luna replied. "I shall need company on this journey."

So it shall be. I am sure he will be eager to serve you...he seemed very happy today.

"Thank you, Chief of the Manticores." There was a pause. Luna looked up into the treetops. "And I will require eyes in the air as well!" She shouted. "To assist in the finding of the Elements of Harmony!"

There was a loud screeching as a Phoenix descended from the treeline to the ground.

My name is Brightflame, Princess. I am not a beast of the night, and I owe you no allegiance, but I desire the freedom of my people. Send me, if you will.

Luna nodded. "Brightflame...your reward shall be great, when this is over. If you desire to serve me on this quest, it shall be so."

The phoenix tilted it's head slightly, as if it was bowing. Thank you princess. I shall not fail.

"I know you will not." Luna paused. "But how will you find us?"

My eyes are many times stronger than a hawks. If you do not hide, I will see you.

"But what if we must hide?"

Then I will find you when you do not. Brightflame paused. You are the princess of the night, yes?

"I am, Brightflame."

If you ever feel the need to contact me...make whatever star is directly above you glow brighter than the others.

Luna stopped, confused for a second. "I...I will try, Brightflame. I have never done such a thing before...but I will try."

Thank you, Princess.

"It is I who should be thanking you, dear Brightflame. I shall see to it that you are rewarded when this is over. Now go! Say your last farewells to your family and depart. We have a country to save." Quickly, the phoenix known as Brightflame flew black up into the treeline.

There was a rustling in the bushes behind the manticore. A manticore, who Luna recognized as Scout, the first of the animals that she had met, popped out. Luna realized why he had been known as Runt before. Though he was large in comparison with an average pony, he was much smaller when compared to his Chief.

I am ready to go, Princess! Scout bounced about like an eager puppy.

Luna chuckled. "We are leaving the Everfree Forest, young manticore. It is not safe in Discord's world. Are you sure you wish to go?"

Anything to serve my Princess, Princess! When do we leave?

Luna smiled. "If you are ready, we leave now." She nodded at the gathering of animals in the clearing. "Farewell, Chief of the manticores. Farewell Stonegaze. Farewell to all of the denizens of the Everfree. Tell those who have not seen me of the truth of my return. The Everfree Forest will be free...truly free, soon."

When she finished speaking, something akin to a cheer went up among the animals. Those who did not belong to the Everfree would not have to live under it's shadow for much longer, and those who did would not have to share it with anybody else.

Luna smiled, and nodded for Scout to join her as she walked out of the Everfree Forest, and into the realm of Discord.