Ancestral Cycle #1: Freedom

Chapters

Prologue: How Destinies Start
The Slaughter of a Millennium
Celestia's Plot
Relations
The Dark Land
"We Only Have to fear Fear Itself..."
Light of the Land

Prologue: How Destinies Start

Two fillies race towards the schoolyard in Ponyville. The one in the lead, a purple unicorn with a dark blue mane and tail and emerald eyes, looked back at the one behind her and shouted, "I told you we'd be late, Spell Feather! We shouldn't have tried to prank Mrs. Apple!"

The back one, a blue unicorn with a black and red mane and tail with yellow eyes shouted back, "It was your idea, Berry Shine! You better pray to Celestia that Ms. Sparkle won't ream us for being late! She said she had a special thing for us today! She'll kill us! Just like in her stories when she was younger!"

"Stop being a scaredy filly and let's go!" Berry shouted as they raced into the schoolyard. They both took deap breaths, and hurriedly trotted into the classroom. A purple alicorn with a dark purple mane and tail with red glasses on was sitting at her desk, reading a book silently. The class seemed to be silent themselves, doing quiet things.

Without looking up, the alicorn cleared her throat and said, "Berry Shine, Spell Feather, you're late."

The two fillies instantly bowed down and said, "We're sorry, Ms. Twilight Sparkle! We-" Berry began to say, but Spell elbowed her.

"We were just catching up on some magic studying!" Spell said, and they both stood at attention.

Twilight put her book down and took off her glasses. "You may be seated. I specifically told everypony yesterday that something important was going to happen today." She said as she set down her glasses. The two fillies nodded and quickly hurried to their seats as Twilight stood up in front of the class.

"Today, will be a story day." The class did a light cheer, but Twilight hushed them. " Princess Celestia and Luna have given me permission to share this such story, for it plays an important role in this world. But it will be a long story, not involving anything I did, except help." The class looked at each other, and Twilight opened her drawer. She pulled out a big purple leather-bound book. On the cover had a profile view of a stallion's head with a long spiky mane. His eyes were's seen, but the gold and amethyst crown that was atop his head shone bright like the rest of the design. She placed her stool in front of her desk and sat in it.

"Listen carefully, for this is a tale that made history." She opened the book, and cleared her throat. "Hundreds of years ago, in a Realm of Celestial Dragons called 'Ancestors'..."

~~~

A female dragon that shone like the stars walked down to the edge of a crystal pool. Her scales where covered like the night sky, but you could tell she had a dark blue coating with purple eyes. Something shifted behind her, and she whipped her head around to see a male dragon, who had stars in his scales like hers, emerge from a bush. He was gray with gold eyes.

“Startia, it has been many Moons.” The dragon said.

The mare dipped her head and said, “As well to thee, Census.” She unfolded her wings, and sighed. The dragon took his place at the pool and looked at it- one could see nothing but stormy clouds. Bushes shook around them, and many other dragons with stars in their scales emerged.

They all settled down, and Census stood at the north end of the starry pool. “Ancestors of Creation,” He began. “For many millenniums, Celestia and Luna have wandered our shattered world, searching for a place of rest. They had found it, and rose a wonderful Kingdom. Both have lived in Harmony, until the tyrant Discord attacked them.”

One of the dragons, who had storms brewing across his scales, stood up. "What of Penumbra?" There was a chorus of gasps that arose from the Ancestors.

Census glared at the pony and said, “Take your seat, Welkin.” The alicorn eased down. Harmony turned his attention to the others. “Penumbra still lies in the Echo. But he is growing stronger.

"How?" One of the ancestors, she smelled of the ocean, questioned. "Astria and Twilight nearly destroyed his form."

Census walked around the pool's edge, and dipped his claw into it. The cloudy water cleared to reveal a dark blue stallion trotting across a black and misty field. "He is doing the Dark King's bidding." The Ancestors were beyond shocked.

A dark blue female dragon rose up, furious. "Didn't he die?!" She roared.

Census hung his head. "The truth is a painful thing," He sighed, and all of the Ancestors settled down. "The time has come. An era of Darkness is coming upon us, and it seems that not even we will be prepared. The time has come for the Garden of Roses to be retrieved."

"How?" Startia asked. "The colt doesn't even know who he is!"

Census looked sympathetically at her. "Then it is time for us to awaken this colt." He touched the water again, and it revealed a blurred picture of a baby in a carriage. As the Ancestors slowly departed, he leaned forward and whispered a chilling line;

“Wake up, our Song.

Play us your Tune.

Show them you’re strong,

And save us from Eternal Doom.”

~~~

The hooded stallion stopped before the large black hole; his ragged breath and his hooves kneading the ground showed he was beyond nervous. He took a deep breath, and walked inside. It was completely dark, but the stallion had learned to be accustomed to the blinding darkness. For many minutes he walked straight forward, as if there was a trail he wished not to stray from. Suddenly, a slight breeze ruffled his coat and mane, and then the space around him lightened up to a dim. The stallion's eyes adjusted yet again, and he was aware of numerous dark creatures beyond description all around him on the sides of the large room-it reminded the stallion oddly of a court.

In front of him, at the far part of the room, sat what the stallion was looking for: a creature who had a blanket of shadows around him. He already knew who it was, and he needed the beast's help. The creature(who the stallion guessed was leaning on his claw) straightened up and spoke in a rumbling voice; "Ah, my loyal servant has arrived."

The stallion coughed, trying to regain his composure. He bowed respectfully and said, "My Dark King, I...May I ask you of something?"

There was silence as the creatures looked at the stallion in horror. Finally, the beast on the throne spoke. "Hmmm...nobody has asked me to do something for them in a long, long time..." Every creature held its breath. "But, since you are my most loyalest follower, and indeed the one that will carry out my wishes without any objections." He waved his claw, giving the stallion permission.

The stallion inhaled, and spoke what he needed. "M-My wife...she has fallen very, very ill. She is pregnant, and her due is quite near. The..." He hesitated, then continued. "And the doctors say she may die if she gives birth-and the baby as well. All I ask is for you to rid of her illness. I-I'll give you anything."

The shadows around the beast retreated, showing a large sleek black dragon. He leaned forward and said, "Your wish will be done." He smiled. "But, I want one thing in return."

The stallion gulped. "Name your price, my King."

The dragon smiled wickedly, and leaned forward. His eyes glinted with mischievousness and evil. He spoke one sentence, and the stallion then knew he made a mistake;

"I want your child. He will be ever so useful for me."

The Slaughter of a Millennium

They’re coming. A voice echoed, and Zunar woke up with a start. He glanced around the master room, expecting somepony or something to be waiting for him. No, Zunar thought to himself. I mustn't think like that anymore. I’ve retired from the Service, and now I’m mayor...there shouldn’t be anything trying to kill me. Zunar shifted to an upright position, and swung his hooves over the side of the bed. Suddenly, a hoof brushed against his striped back. He looked over his shoulder and saw his wife, Midnight Dance, she began rubbing his zebra coat.

“What’s wrong, dear?” She asked. She shifted and scooted closer to him, knowing what happened. She always did this, for it was usual that Zunar would wake up in cold sweat, remembering his past conflicts.

“N-nothing, Midnight.” Even though they moved to Hoofshend, Zunar still felt out of place. “I’m going to walk around the house, make sure nothing is...out of place.” Zunar explained as he struggled to find the right words to make an excuse of to get away from his dreams.

Midnight nodded, and said smiling, “Go check on Song and see if he’s okay.” Zunar nodded, leaned over to kiss his wife, and felt his way out into the living room. He turned on a small desk-side light, putting the room in a small dim. He glanced at the fireplace, then looked up from the swallowing blackness where the fire goes. Up above the mantle hung a leather figure so ornate to look as if a tux for a Ball. The neck was joined at the back and an oval shape piece was stung above it, forming a hood. Zunar looked at it, as if it was a long lost friend he couldn’t wait to talk to.

Zunar sighed, and moved away from the suit, heading towards the second hallway. He felt his way to the door of his son’s room, only to be interrupted by a sharp knock at the door. Zunar stiffened, cautiously moved to the front door, and waited in front of it. The knock was heard again, and Zunar reached to his coat rack, and pulled out a silver greatsword. He kept it down, down to where he could open the door, but not be noticed with the sword. He slowly opened the door, expecting it to be bad news, but instead was a gold-armored soldier, standing in the wet rain.

When the soldier saw Zunar, he saluted-his left hoof over his chest- and said. “Mayor, sir!” Zunar returned the salute. The soldier continued. “Nightshade brings news! She says that she and the King are making advancements on The Evil army! She’d devised an attack strategy that might work! She says it is very dangerous for you to be here!”

“Why is that?” Zunar questioned the soldier. “This village is nowhere near the war. Why would it be dangerous?”

“I do not know, sir! She told me to relay the message!. Is that all?” Zunar nodded and saluted the soldier, who returned the salute, turned around, and flew away into the night rainy sky. Zunar shut the door, shaking his head.

He thought of his immortal friend. Nightshade’s just probably over-reacting, as usual. Zunar thought. There’s no way that the evil king could attack this village. We’re way out of war boundaries. He went to his son’s room, and found the baby stirring restlessly in the carriage.

"How's he doing?" His wife said, suddenly by the door, leaning against it. "Also, who was that?"

Zunar rubbed his stiff neck. “He's doing fine." He lied. "There was a soldier at the door. He wanted to give me some Intel on the war...” His voice trailed off as he heard what sounded like yelling. Zunar quickly went to the living room window and watched a villager run through the streets. He seemed to be yelling something. Zunar strained to listen, and heard;

“The death walkers are coming! The ones that walk with Death are-” Suddenly, an arrow ripped through the stallion’s neck, instantly killing him. Zunar stumbled back, and ran to the bedroom. “The village is under attack! I’ll hold them off while you go hide Song!.” Zunar rushed into the living room, and threw on his suit. The suit snuggly fit his built shape, and when he flexed his front hooves, two long knives shot out, ready for cutting.

“Remember;” Queen Nightshade Star had told him."The next time you put this suit on-" He then interrupted Nightshade.“I know, it will be my last..." He thought he would never put on the suit, but that time has come. He ran back to the bedroom, gave Midnight the silver greatsword, and said, “You know where to hide him, right? I’ll draw attention away from there as long as I can. He needs to keep the bloodline flowing!” With that, he turned around, ran and opened the front door, and ran outside into complete chaos.

Townspeople ran everywhere, screaming. Guards tried fighting off black-robed ponies. Houses were on fire. A robed pony came flying at Zunar, wielding a longsword, but Zunar deflected upwards, and thrusted the hidden blade into the pony’s rib. Zunar brought the blade back out, and left the pony shivering on the ground as he went to go find something else to kill. As he ran out into the center of the town’s square, he saw who the town was under siege with. They weren't the Fallen Star’s royal soldiers, they were his mercenaries.A pony saw Zunar, and instantly began chanting words for a rising spell. Zunar grunted, pulled out his Canterbow, and shot the pony three times in the throat, saying, “Words of the dead, shall stay with the dead.” What seemed like a millennium of endless fighting, a piercing shriek was heard, and Zunar instantly recognized it: It was Midnight. He looked in the direction of the screech just in time to see her on the grown stomach-down while a robed pony insert a greatsword through her spinal cord, and exiting between her ribcage.

“No!” Zunar yelled, and emptied his Canterbow into the pony. Cutting a wide path using a sword from a fallen pony, he sliced ponies to pieces as he made his way to Midnight. He knelt at her body, and she looked past him to the stars. While the ponies retreated and fled Zunar held her head in his hooves as the flow of blood trickled out of her mouth. “Midnight!” Zunar screamed in terror. “Oh dear sweet Faro! Midnight, stay with me!”

“The stars,” Midnight quietly whispered. “I’ve...always loved the Night. But now alas, I cannot see Mother.”

“No! Midnight! You are not going to die! Stay with me! Stay! With! ME!” Zunar said as he began crying. Song was nowhere to be found, and Zunar thought with horror that he might be already dead. Suddenly, a hoof pushed down from above his head and Zunar realized the hoof belonged to Midnight. She brought his head to hers, and she kissed him with deep, comforting affection. The taste of fresh blood flowed into Zunar’s mouth, but he didn’t care. He kissed back, and a fearful string of words exited her lips, sounding like a Curse;

“‘Kin of your kin

Light will send.

The one of note, and the one anew,

Will bring The World into one solid hue.’

These words...were given to my mother.” She quietly explained. She looked up to the bright moon, the Mare on the Moon standing out as if watching this horrid night. She smiled as her eyes clouded up, and said her final words: “Chaos, to thee I will take away, at my burial ground. But harmony,....will be here...in Elysium...” She exhaled, and a puddle of blood surrounded Zunar. He went to close her eyes, but a voice said, No, let her see the sky, for her name’s final wish... the voice was interrupted by the sound of marching hooves falling into formation to make a circle around him. Zunar slowly stood up on his hindquarters and looked at the ground, not worrying about facing death.

A pony chuckled, obviously sounding like the leader. “Awww, how touching. The pony mocked. “Zunar, can’t be mistaken by the zebra coat, figuring that you’re the only zebra around here.” He laughed, and so did his stallions and mares. “Ahh. Somepony told me your head was a good price. Well, I wouldn’t doubt it, seeing as you triple as a direct bloodline from Requiem, a soldier in the highest ranking, and a mayor! This, is going to be fun!”

“Love,” Zunar muttered. They stopped laughing, and Zunar looked up to Silvermane. He saw a bright star, as if it was new, in the sky among others. He smiled, but it waned as he said, “Love,” again. The changelings looked utterly confused. “Love, that’s all you take on. Yet you do not stop to realize the beauty of it...” His voice trailed off as he turned around, causing the changelings(except the leader) to gasp. Zunar’s eyes were pure silver, adding a dark look to his hatred expression. but the most abnormal thing was his body: Seeping blackness flowed from right out of him, like a tattered cape. “What is your name, changeling?” Zunar asked. “I want to know the name of the stallion who killed my wife.”

The changeling laughed, “Hah! A final request, I see. Even though you won’t live for long, I’ll tell you my name: It is Cross Change, for of how well I can change identities!” He nodded to his soldiers, who instantly brought out weapons such as swords, axes, knives, and crossbows.

Zunar chuckled, and held one hoof to the side of his waist, and another near his right cheek, as if he was grabbing something. His shadow crawled up his body and flowed into his hooves to created a strange weapon: One side was a long blade, like an axe, but the other side had an even longer blade, like a scythe. He briefly smiled, then charged at the changelings, crying and screaming a deafening war cry. They instantly fired the crossbows, and the melee ponies charged at Zunar. Multiple bolts hit him, but he still charged. He slashed, cut, hack, and decapitated everything in his path.

When Zunar finally reached Cross Change, he swung his weapon high in the air, hoping to split the changeling’s skull open. But Cross grabbed Zunar in a hug-like manner, pushed the weapon away, and-using a hidden blade- stabbed the zebra in the pancreas and moved upwards into the stomach. Zunar, not phased by being stabbed in his vital point, looked at the shocked expression on Cross’s face, reared his head back, and the zebra threw his head against the changeling’s, causing it to splatter as blood went everywhere. As blood seeped down his face, Zunar turned to realize that the changelings were starting to retreat, due to the fact that their leader was dead.

Panting, Zunar looked around the town and realized that everypony was...dead. Not a single living soul was in sight. Tired and wounded, Zunar stumbled back to the lifeless body that was his wife, and collapsed next to her. He wrapped a hoof around her, closed his eyes, and said, “No changeling can conquer this love....” His voice trailed off as the wind echoed, Music, Zunar opened his eyes, not sure if he heard right. Music, the voice came again. ...is our Light. Zunar raised his head in the direction of the voice, and saw many ponies standing in a horizontal line.

Zunar instantly recognized them from left to right as all of his wife’s ancestors, from the time of Requiem on down. Something brushed his shoulder, and Zunar saw Midnight Symphony holding her hoof out. “Get up, lazy.” She said, cracking a smile. “The Creation Festival isn’t going to wait all night long.” Zunar looked confused, until he realized that every one of them was wearing a suit or dress, ready for a ball. He looked down and realized that he too had on his best suit. She helped him get up on his hooves, and he quickly hugged her tight, kissing her with deep affection.

He stopped and looked deeply in her eyes. “I will never leave you again. Ever.” She blushed, and side-by-side, they walked to the welcoming spirits. Together, as a family, the Spirits walked away from the town, and the wind cried, causing them to fade away in the starry sky.

Hours later, a small colt climbed out of a well. He dropped to the ground, landing on his face. He didn’t cry, but instead gets up and calls out, “Mommy? Whewe awe you?” His gray and white mane blew in the dawn morning. His blue coat shivered, being cold from the early-morning frost. He remembered the word his mother told him earlier: Hide here! It’s like hide-and-seek, but you’re hiding from everypony! He could still feel the place where his mother kissed him on the forehead. It was barely dawn, but the destruction and chaos in the town could still be seen. With wide confused eyes, the colt walked over the bodies of what were his neighbors and friends. It started pouring again, but the colt didn’t seem to care. Suddenly, a sweet, familiar scent filled his nostrils:Lavender Fang, the herbs his mother always used.

He followed the scent, winding through the maze of the town. He came around the corner, and stopped in his tracks. He began slowly trotting forward to the lifeless bodies, the ones he’s known and seen every day: his parents. He stopped by the bodies and calmly prodded the zebra. “Daddy? Mommy? Pwease get up.” His hooves sloshed around in the blood, but he didn’t realize it. “I-Iw'm cowld...." No response. He nudged his mother, hoping she would wake up and comfort him. She did not. The young colt began crying, his tears even with the rain.

The colt sniffed and saw something in his father’s hoof. He reached down and pulled it out, and remembered it was the necklace his father always wore:a pure purple amethyst crystal representing the Birth of Enchantment. He slipped the necklace onto his neck, and held it tight, as if swearing to an oath.

The colt, being tired from waking up so early, stepped in between his parents, and settled down, trying to get warm. He closed his eyes, and fell into an endless nightmare.

***

A pony dressed in a robe from head to hoof stood on a hill, looking at the town. The pony covered it's snout with it's hoof, nearly hurling at the sight of the bodies. The pony winced, as if experiencing the chaos and destruction as the ponies who lived here did. “What in Faro’s name happened here? You said that the Deathwalkers wouldn’t come here because it was far away from the battle lines!” The pony's voice was muffled, but it sounded like a mare's She stared at the town with terrified eyes.

Something brushed next to her, and she glanced to see a hooded unicorn look the town. Her black snout was the only thing visible, for she had a hood over her face. “The Sunset happened,” She explained. She turned her head to him and sighed when she saw her confused expression. “That’s what the villagers say Dark’s feared name is, The Keeper.” the unicorn said, referring to the Dark Lord.

The Keeper shook her head. “Queen Nightshade, what do you think we should do? This town-Hoofshend-is home to about two thousand ponies! That’s a lot of time we don’t have...” Her voice trailed off when he saw her expression, which looked determined.

“Keeper, we have three thousand members of The Hoof-and they’re all here. We should honor this town, for it is home of mostly retired soldiers who fought in The Millennium War.” She looked at the town, and she drew her hoof from the top-right corner of her heart, drew it in a diagonal format, like a scar-the symbol for the dead to rest peacefully in Elysium.

Keeper did the same, and so did the three thousand soldiers behind the-all wearing robes, detailing their own rankings. “Ponies of The Hoof!” Nightshade called out. This town will be remembered! All of the innocent lives lost! It will not be remembered as weakness! Look at the dead changeling bodies around you! The proud retired warriors died protecting their homes! This will serve as a reminder! this town will no longer be known as Hoofshend, for it is now a grave! it will be known as, The Grave of Innocence! We will dig graves in honor of these fallen warriors! Now, let us carry their legacy!” And with that, the soldier dispersed, going to take care of the bodies. Both Cartographer and Nightshade drew their hooves across their chest in a scar-like manner. Nightshade turned to Keeper-who was busy with one of the captains-to converse with her, but a whisper, very ghost-like, whispered in her ear. The voice sang a familiar tune:

“Come Little Children, I’ll take thee away,

Into a land of Enchantment.

Come Little Children,

The Time’s come to play,

Here in my Garden of Shadows,”

The tune struck her as a familiar one, one that reminded her of…...her Mother. But know her mother was gone, and Nightshade only had the necklace of her mother as a remembrance to not turn into what her mother became. She hugged the interlining two crescents tight to her chest, as she followed the familiar lullaby.

“Follow sweet Children, I’ll show thee the way,

Through all the Pain and the Sorrows.

Weep not, poor Children,

For Life is this Way

Murdering Beauty and Passions…..”

The lullaby trailed away as Nightshade turned around the corner, and beheld a horrific sight. Ponies laid everywhere, blood oozing like some artist’s sick way of art. but the only thing that caught her attention was the black and white pony laying next to a statue of a brave warrior-the black and white pony was a zebra. She hurried forward, but she already knew who it was-it was possibly the last member of the ancient Tribe of Requiem, Midnight.

Nightshade stood up and surveyed the landscape- not a single soul was alive, all of them were dead. She turned just in time to see a soldier run nearby her. She called out, “Hey! Go back and get The Keeper!” The soldier stopped, blinked at the sight he saw, then spun around in an opposite direction.

Behind her, something small moved, making a small noise. Nightshade turned around and saw something moving between the bodies of the zebra and the unicorn. Suddenly, a colt stuck his head out, and shivered, looking around at the carnage. he looked at the Queen, then shrank back, scared.

The Queen didn’t know what to do at first. “Shh. It’s okay, little one. I am not here to hurt you, I am not a bad pony.” She crept forward, but the colt instantly shot out and hid under her, panting and shaking in fear. She stepped over him and sat beside him. He began to cry, so Nightshade did the only thing she thought of: she sang.

“Hush now dear Child, for it must be this Way,

To weary of Life and Deceptions.

Rest now my Child,

For we’ll soon away,

Into the Calm and the Quiet.”

The colt stopped crying, and looked at Nightshade. She nuzzled him, trying to slow his pounding, scared heart down.He rested his head against her side, exhausted. The colt looked at her. “Do not worry, young one," Nightshade comforted him. "For I am here. I knew your parents very well. We will take you to a safe place, little one."

Nightshade smiled as the colt began to slightly doze of into a sleep, and the sound of running hooves made her turn around in the direction the sound was coming from. She saw The Keeper and the soldier sprinting in her direction. The Keeper slid to a stop, and smelled the carnage. She instantly knelt and crossed his hoof over his heart to respect the dead.

“May these honorable members of the Tribe rest in Elysium,” Keeper said. She noticed the colt and asked, “Who’s the young one? I’ve never seen him before.” She got up, and looked at Nightshade, waiting for an answer. The quiet little colt was fast asleep between Queen Nightshade's hooves. She used her magic to clean off as much blood as she could, but a little bit would need to be washed off.

Nightshade got up, as did the colt. “I believe his name was Song Tune,” She said. “He was sleeping in between these two bodies.” She gestured to the two bodies that The Keeper had noted.

“He is the one of Prophecy,” The Keeper breathed, realizing it. She looked at Nightshade and said, “He needs to be taken somewhere safe….somewhere away from this Evil and Chaos.”

Nightshade shook her head. “You cannot destroy the Path that has already been laid out, Keeper.”

“No,but we can alter it. Make detours,” She pointed out. Just then, another soldier ran up and saluted The Keeper, who returned it. “What’s the matter?”

The soldier was panting, he took a breath and said, ”Ma'am! The Dark Lord is here! On a hill not too far away!” The Keeper’s eyes widened, and she whirled to the other soldier who had led her here.

“Iron Fire!” She commanded. The soldier snapped to attention. “Take Queen Nightshade and this colt down to the southwestern shore! She'll know what to do!! That’s an order!” The soldier nodded, and turned to Queen Nightshade.

Nightshade instantly objected. “But if he returns one day, how will you know it’s him? He’ll be different!”

“I won’t,” The Cartographer said, knowing it. “Now go! The fat of this land rests in your hooves!”

“Come with me, please my Queen. We mustn't delay.” The Queen nodded. Song Tune had fallen asleep, so she picked him up and put him on her back, for safety. The soldier turned around, and began to lead her away from the town.

After watching her leave, The Keeper calmly felt that that would be the last time she would see her. She shook the feeling off, and said, “Let’s go,” She and the soldier ran the the side of the town where the other members had gathered.

As The Keeper moved through the throng of assassins, the other army-many had called it The Dark Army- waited as a large black alicorn moved to the front as well. the Keeper called out, “So, you’re the Dark Lord. I had expected something more...Dark.” The Dark Lord scoffed.

“So, you're The Keeper?” The Dark Lord mocked. “I expected something…… less pitiful.” The Dark Lord laughed, as well as the others. He commanded a word in ancient language, and his soldiers drew their weapons.

The Keeper yelled, “She'da!” and the assassins drew their own weapons. The Dark Lord raised his greatsword, as if challenging the Hoof. He barked two words, and they charged;

“Destroy Them.”

The soldiers ran down the hill, and The Keeper yelled, “All of this madness! All of this unnecessary chaos! It ends! TODAY!” The Hoof shouted, and they charged straight at the Dark Army, with the power of the Ancestors at their sides.

The Keeper's last thought before the armies clashed was;

“In the land before Time,

The land of your Inheritance,

Lies a colt of Power.

To find him in a flood,

Lying in his Ancestor’s Blood.

He will save Thee from Night

With Equality as his Light."

The armies clashed, and the thunder rang in fury.

Celestia's Plot

Song Tune woke up with a start, his hoof resting on his pounding chest. He had the same nightmare, but of course he couldn’t remember it, but he still knew the feeling. The sun was higher than usual, and Song rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. He swung his hooves over the side of the bed, trying to recall the dream, then remembered why the sun was further out than usual.

Song sprang out of his bed in his small room-cluttered with music sheets, drawings of strange creatures, and other assortments- and danced around the papers to reach his wardrobe. He opened it and grabbed his favorite(and uniform) black cloak and threw it on. He then danced back around his stuff, grabbed his satchel, and skittered into the seemingly-empty halls of Canterlot Castle.

He sprinted down the hallway, and took a left down another long corridor. At the end of the corridor were two golden grand doors-the entrance to Celestia’s Throne Room. The guards, who were standing guard, didn’t bat an eye at him as he slowed down, took a deep breath, and entered the room.

Inside the grand and ornate room, Celestia was sitting on the far side of the room, reading from a small stack of scrolls she had. She hadn’t noticed Song’s entrance, so he silently began to hurriedly approach her. Suddenly, an overwhelming sensation came over him from off to his right, nearly causing him to keel over. He looked to his right, but all he saw was a stained-glass picture of a familiar creature.

It occurred to Song that he read about this creature-a head of a pony and it’s body comprising of every other animal. The Celestial Sisters were circling around him, trapping him in his stone prison for all of eternity. As Song neared the stained glass, a deep laugh rumbled from it. Song’s spine shivered, unsure what was happening.

Then a voice echoed from the stained glass: “Your time of triumph has not yet come, little one. You will soon act as my anchor in years to come, just as your ancestors have.” Then the laughter echoed inside his head, making him back up quickly.

As soon as he backed up, he hit something hard, then fell forward and did a faceplant. Stars were in his eyes as he looked up to see what he hit. As his eyes re-focused, Song saw Celestia standing there-he guessed he must have hit that thick necklace of hers- who looked at him, then at the stained glass, then back at him.

“Are you alright Song? I’m sorry if I hurt you.” Celestia asked. Song nodded, got to his hooves, and dusted himself off. “That’s excellent. What is it that you need?”

Song bowed his head and said, “Princess, I am terribly sorry for not arriving on time. I-uh-overslept.”

Celestia stared at him blankly, then with a quizzical expression on her face, she said, “I told you that there was no lessons today, don’t you remember? I told you yesterday.” She was trying to hold back a chuckle, and gestured with her wing for him to follow her. She walked to her throne, and as she sat down, she asked, “Have you forgotten already?” Song sat in front of her with a quizzical expression on his face.

With her magic, she pulled out a wrapped package from next to her throne and set it down in front of him. He stared blankly, going from Celestia, then back to the box for a couple of minutes, then everything clicked. He slapped his hoof on his face and said, “Oh! Duh!” He laughed, and Celestia managed a chuckle as well. “Today is my birthday! I guess I was so buried in my studies, I forgot it was today.” Celestia nodded at him, and Song began to unwrap the box.

When he opened the package, there was a thick, old, leather-bound book. There wasn’t any title on the front, so Song asked, “What’s this?” He opened the book, only to find that there wasn’t anything written on the pages. “Uh….Celestia? T-this book is…..blank.”

As Song examined the book, Celestia swallowed, as if not sure to explain the things she needs to tell him. “That’s…because it’s bound by Magic. At least I think it is.”

“Well, where’d you find it?” Song asked, and examined it carefully, hoping to find any clues.

Celestia swallowed yet again, and calmly said, “I...um, well….Song,” He looked at her and stopped examining it. “Y….you weren’t really born in Canterlot. Much less Equestria.”

His heart thudded as he looked at her. “W-what do you….mean?” He set the book down.

Celestia calmly gave him the answer. “You were brought here by a pony from another land.” Song looked at the ground, not saying a word. Celestia looked out a window, and watched dark clouds gather. She cleared her throat, and said, “It began on a cloudy, stormy, night….”

Thunder rang outside the throne room, but Celestia paid no heed to it’s threats. She had a stack of scrolls next to her, reading the intel that her guards sent her- they basically said the same thing over and over again; Crimson Guard, and Thunder Gale. Of course, Celestia thought. Thunder Gale was pronounced dead. So, why are they worried about it? Maybe the “Crimson Guard” has some sort of connection to him?

Many ponies in each of the towns were frantic over the random, but small, raids that the Crimson Guard were commencing on each of the towns. They questioned, and Celestia had an excuse.

“The raids have no connection whatsoever to the sky tyrant known as Thunder Gale,” Celestia had said, referring to the pegasus that had been rejected by Cloudsdale, the Wonderbolts, and the Celestial Guard, who had left and became a rogue. “There will be guards stationed in every town.”

Celestia tried to think of what the townspeople called them.Sky….Pirates? Yes, that must’ve been it. She clearly didn’t know if Thunder Gale wasrelated to the Sky Pirates in any way.

A guard cleared his throat, bringing the Princess back into the present. When she had his attention, he said, “Your Highness….somepony is here to speak with you. He says it’s urgent, and he happens to look like a Royal Guard from another Kingdom.”

Celestia stared blankly at him, trying to recall if she was expecting a meeting. She slowly nodded and said, “Yes, I-uh- bring him in, please.” As the soldier went and retrieved the visitor, Celestia wondered who the pony was. She wasn’t expecting any Royalty, and especially not in the middle of the night.

The grand doors opened, and a soldier dressed in silver armor came in, carrying a basket with his magic. The Princess looked puzzled, but the soldier set down the basket and said, “I am terribly sorry for disturbing you at such an hour, Princess of Equestria.”

“Princess Celestia is fine,” She said. “Why have you visited me, and where do you come from?”

The soldier bowed and said, “My name is Lone Star, but I have come with an important explanation: Our Kingdom is falling apart, and it is too dangerous for this Colt to live there. Our Queen instructed us to bring him south to the Land of Light, and talk with the Princess of the Sun.”

The Princess was silent. “Which Kingdom?”

The soldier shook his head. “I am forbidden to speak of it’s name, for our Queen fears your Kingdom might get caught up in our war.”

She looked inside the basket, and nearly gasped. A colt with blue fur laid in the basket, and he had white and gray hair. But the most shocking thing were the eyes(which were half-open, showing the colt was half-asleep); a pure gold color. Where have I seen those colors from….? She wondered, then began to say, “I don’t know if I can-” And then the weirdest sensation came over her. It was a strong aura, and she realized it was coming from the basket. As soon as it came, it was gone. Celestia stood there pondering, then said, “I will take this colt in, but he will be under the watch of the guards when I am busy.”

The soldier nodded, bowed his head, and said, “Our Kingdom gives you many thanks, Princess Celestia. i will take my leave.” The Princess nodded, and the guards escorted him out. Celestia picked the colt up with her magic, and saw a thick, leather-bound book underneath the blanket he was wrapped in. She picked it up, and opened it-but nothing was written on any of the pages.

She shrugged, and took the colt out of the Throne Room to a smaller room, and called one of the guards-a bat-pony mare who was on guard duty named Midnight Dusk- to watch the colt. She instructed that she watch the colt until he grew to the proper age.

Song stared at the decorative floor. “So, Midnight Dusk was my….guardian?” Celestia nodded, and Song remained quiet. The clinking sound of coins was heard, and Song looked up to see Celestia holding a medium-sized bag of coins. “What’s that for?”

Celestia smiled and said, “I think it’s time for you to start on your new assignment.” Song looked puzzled, then Celestia began to explain some more. “I’m assigning you to a local town known as Ponyville. Will you accept?”

Song didn’t even give it a second thought. “Yes, Princess! I accept!”

Celestia looked surprised. “But, you didn’t even give yourself time to think!”

Song laughed, and rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, being cooped up in a castle for thirteen years does wear on one’s mind.”

She tried not to laugh, but said, “Very well. Then here’s what you need to do; once you reach the town, find the location of Mayor Mare. I will send her a letter about your arrival, and then she will tell you what house is yours. After that is finished, I will have a package sent to you. Are you sure you still want this?”

Song didn’t even give it a second thought, “Yes, I am! When do I leave?”

Celestia sighed, “Two hours before noon. I hope you are prepared.”

He stood up and said, “Okay! I’ll go get ready then! I’ll always be prepared!” He turned around and trotted out the door.

Celestia looked longingly after him, as if he were somepony dear to her. “Good,” She breathed. “Ones who are delivered from Chaos should always be.”

* * *

The train whistled, and it lurched forward, leaving behind Canterlot, and heading towards a new destination. Song walked past the carts to the one marked on his ticket: C5-3. He went to the fifth cart-the one two behind the engine- and looked for the third compartment. When he found it he opened it up, and stopped when he saw the pony sitting inside.

The pony looked up at him, and he knew there was no mistake. “O-Octavia?!” She looked confused for a moment, but then her eyes went wide.

She jumped up and exclaimed, “Song! I hardly recognized you!” She hugged him, and Song froze-his heartbeat increased, and he thought, Wha-? What’s this feeling?

She looked him up and down and said, “You look fantastic! You’ve grown...” She had to look up a bit in order to see him, then finished her sentence. “...tall…”

He laughed and said, “Yeah! I’ve been training since-” His smile faded when he remembered the memory, and Octavia just nodded.

“Don’t fret, Song. She’s proud of you. I just know it. What brings you on the express to Ponyville?” She asked settling back down. Song sat across from her.

“Well, Celestia sent me to Ponyville on a new assignment. I don’t know what it is, but all my training will help.” He said, and shrugged. “But I am glad to finally get out of that Castle.” Octavia chuckled.

For the rest of the train ride, they talked with each other to do some catching-up business. Song didn’t even realize they were almost to Ponyville, until the crack of lightning echoed through the sky. His muscles tensed, and he looked out the window, and watch another lightning bolt hit the ground. And when it did, he shrank back.

“Are you alright, Song?” Octavia asked.

Song gulped, and nodded. “Y-yeah, I am.” He lied.

When they arrived at the station, Song quickly hurried to the back, with Octavia following, and grabbed his stuff. When they got outside, a light drizzle began, but the black thunderclouds could be seen in the distance. “Song!” Octavia called, managing to get his attention. He looked at her, and she said, “Just come over to my house until the storm passes.” Too scared to object, Song nodded, and followed Octavia to her house.

When they got in, Octavia pointed to a closet be the hallway and said, “You can set your stuff there, Song.” He nodded and set his stuff there. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go find my roommate.” She said, and trotted towards the kitchen.

Song looked around the room, and realized that Octavia’s living room looked fairly nice. “Song!” Octavia called from the kitchen. “Could you make a fire, please?!” He nodded, and went to the fire place. he took the matches on the mantle and began to light the fire place. When the fire was lit, a sudden echo of thunder shook the house. Song jumped and turned around, just making sure nopony saw.

He exhaled, and walked to the kitchen. “Hey Octavia.” She turned around. “The fire’s lit.”

Her eyes went wide. “Song! So is your tail!” Song looked down at his tail and realized it was on fire. He panicked and began running around, trying to get it out. “Song! Song!Stop! You’ll catch the whole place on fire!” She chased him trying to get him to stop so she could take the fire out.

Using a last resort, Octavia tackled Song, and managed to get the fire out. Both of them sat there, panting like crazy, when a voice said, “Okay, okay, I don’t even what to know what’s going on right now.” The two of them realized their position was awkward, and quickly got up. The pony that talked was staring at them; she had a light blue and dark blue mane and tail, and her cutie mark was backward sixteenth notes. “Octavia, I’ll be waiting in the room for a good explanation.” The white unicorn said, and trotted up the stairs.

“W-wait! Vinyl!” Octavia said as she tried going after her. She looked back at Song and said, “Wait here, okay? And tried to go back upstairs. Song looked back around the living room, shrugged, and sat down-wondering what kind of trouble he had gotten Octavia into.

The next day, Octavia and Song went to see the Mayor. As they walked, Octavia said that she explained everything to her roommate, Vinyl Scratch-who had been out shopping when Octavia and Song reached her home- and Vinyl seemed okay with it. They did reach Mayor Mare’s office. She gave Song the keys to his new home, and Octavia helped him move his stuff into his house. Octavia was now showing him around Ponyville-making sure he knew the terrain.

“And that over there,” Octavia said, pointing to a warehouse-like building. “Is the Musicians’ Guild. It’s where the Musicians in our Guild gather to practice and talk with one another.”

Song halted. “Wait, our?” He looked at her and she nodded.

“Yes, when I first moved to Ponyville, I got all of the musician’s together and we now own a warehouse. I’ll have to take you there sometime.” She continued trotting- with Song following- then pointed in the direction they were heading. “I’m gonna show you a special place. It’s usually where most of the musicians hang out when they’re not at the Guild. It’s a small little cafe called ‘Snowy Cafe.’ It’s a great place to get drinks.”

Song’s stomach then rumbled, and he lightly blushed. “Uhhh...yeah. Let’s go there.” He chuckled, and Octavia shook her head and muttered, “Stallions.”

The cafe was a small little white building, with white and blue paint decorating the outside. There was a sign outside saying something about an offer, but Octavia had pulled Song inside before he could read it. She then called out, “Snowwy! I’m here for my order!”

A white pegasus with a blue mane trotted out from the back and stammered, “O-oh! O-octavia-a! I-I have y-your order almost-t r-ready! A-alto is packing-g it up.” She looked at Song and asked “W-who have you b-brought here with y-you?”

Octavia stepped back so Song could get a better look at the pony. She had light blue eyes, and a snowflake-type cutie mark. Octavia said, “Snowwy, this is Song Tune. Song Tune, this is Snowwy Skysong.” She smiled and another white pegasus came from the back-she looked like Snowwy’s twin.

“Octavia Melody? Here’s your order; one dozen bagels, one dozen glazed doughnuts, and a two-liter of fresh coffee. Careful, it’s hot.” She said, and set the package on the counter.

Octavia nodded, then turned to Song. “That’s Alto Lovestrings, Sowwy’s sister.” She turned to Allie and said, “This is Song Tune. He’s from Canterlot.” The two mares looked at Song in awe. Octavia turned to Song and asked, “Could you give me with a hoof with these bags? We’re taking them to the Guild.” Song nodded, and put some of them on his back, with Snowwy helping, and Alto helped Octavia put some bags on her.

“Thanks girls!” Octavia said as they walked out. “We’ll come back later!”

Both of the mares said, “Thank you! Come again!” They waved at them as they walked out.

“They seem nice,” Song commented as they walked towards the Guild’s building.

Octavia nodded and said, “They are a cool bunch. Really fun when you get to know them.” They walked in silence until they reached the building. Octavia banged on the door and joked, “Hello? Room service?”

There was somepony laughing on the inside, and the door opened. A stallion-probably older than them- opened the door. He had a light brown coat with dark brown wavy hair. His cutie mark was notes on a staff, and he was wearing a bowtie. “So, brought us some breakfast, eh, mate?” He then saw Song and asked, “Who’s this bloke?”

Octavia nodded her head in the direction of Song and said, “This is Song Tune, Solo.” Then to Song; “This is Solo Beat, Song Tune. Welcome to the Guild.” She walked inside, and Song followed quietly. When they entered, there was a dining table next to what Song had guessed the living room- four ponies sat there, quietly talking to each other. Octavia nudged Song and said, “Follow me, we’ll get this stuff in the kitchen..”

They walked through the dining room, and the three ponies looked up. “Is that our breakfast, Octavia?” A unicorn mare asked. She had purple eyes, a light blue coat color, with blue and white spiked mane. Octavia nodded, then the unicorn asked, “Who’s the stallion?” She looked him up and down.

“We’ll save the introductions for later. For now, let’s set up breakfast.” Song and Octavia began unpacking the food, and the unicorn helped as well. When all of the food was set out, Octavia nodded to the unicorn, who raised a drum and banged on it three times yelling, “Breakfast is ready!”

Five other ponies came from the stairs and other rooms on the ground floor. They sat at the table in a formal manner, and the bagels and doughnuts were being passed out. When everypony sat down and was eating, the same unicorn asked Octavia, “Well… introductions?” She laughed, and Octavia just sighed.

Octavia got Song’s attention, then pointed to the unicorn and said, “Song Tune, this is Melody Star. She’s not really into playing instruments, but she can sing fairly well.” She then pointed to an earth pony stallion who had wavy gray hair and a light tan coat. “This is Duet. He’s good with the piano.” She then pointed to Solo Strings and said, “You’ve already met Solo Strings, who plays the harp.” She pointed to another mare unicorn and said, “This is Lyra Heartstrings, and she plays the lyre.”

Octavia then pointed to a purple pegasus with a blue and white mane. “This is Star Dusk, she plays the ukulele….” As Octavia continued to introduce the other musicians, Song felt overwhelmed with all of the names, but he knew he’d get them all. Octavia then finally said, “Guild, this is Song Tune. He plays the violin in a special way.”

Solo leaned forward and asked, “What kind of way? There’s not really a special way to play the violin. No offense, Sunshine Melody.” He said to a yellow unicorn with yellow-orange hair. She nodded.

Octavia looked at Song, and he nodded. She breathed, and then said, “Well, first of all, he plays it with his left hoof instead of his right, and….” She looked at Song to make sure and he nodded again. “He dances while he plays.”

The other members stared at Song, as if he were an outcast. He slowly nodded and said, “I could play and dance ever since I was young,”

Solo was the first to speak. “Ah, so he talks.” Octavia hit him on the shoulder.

“Don’t be rude! I was just introducing him to everypony!” She looked at Song, then remembered. “Song, wasn’t there supposed to be a package for you at your home?” Song nodded, suddenly remembering himself.

“You’re right the pr-messenger was delivering something for me.” He stood up and said, “It was nice meeting you all, but I have to go get something rather important. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”

He began to move his chair so he could leave, when a voice said, “Song? Is that really you?” The voice sounded familiar, and when Song turned around, he saw a blue pegasus with black and red mane.

There was an incredibly long moment of silence, then Song managed two words: “Frost...Sound?”

Frost laughed,a dnt the two of them rushed at each other. Song hugged him then said, “I had heard you moved to a different town...but I didn’t know it was this one!”

Frost nodded and was about to respond, but then Solo coughed and said, “You know Frost Sound? He’s our guitarist.”

Song nodded, then Frost said, “Of course! Song and I have been friends ever since I met him in Celestia’s Castle.”

Song closed his eyes and lightly sighed, knowing that they were staring at him. Octavia managed to save him. “But,” She intervened, “I’m from Canterlot as well, so there isn’t much of a difference.” She looked at Song and asked, “Isn’t there someplace you need to be?”

Song remembered, and said, “Oh, yes! That’s right! Thank you!” He looked at Frost and said, “I’ll catch up with you later, Frost.” And he hurriedly trotted out of the house.

****

Half a year passed since Song moved to Ponyville. Within that frame of time, he had completed his “objectives” from Celestia: Being an assassin to protect Ponyville from outside threats. He didn’t mind it, but apparently the creatures did. He reflected back on the day he got the package

Song trotted into his house, exhausted from being all over town. He trotted into his living room and saw a box casually sitting on his couch. He looked around-in case he saw somepony- and trotted up to it. On the top was the Royal Sisters’ Seal, so he guessed it was from Celestia.

He picked up the thick box and shook it. Something could be heard inside, so he set the box on his coffee table, and sat down on the couch. He opened it up, and inside was a scroll with the same Seal resting on top of cloth. Song picked it up, and unrolled it to read the scroll.

“Song,

Now that you have accepted your New Assignment, I will go further in depth of what it is. As I am trying to take care of the Sky Pirates, I did not realize of the problems in the small towns; a race of shape-shifting, love-consuming ponies known as Changelings-you are probably aware of their capabilities. Your Assignment is to eliminate any threat that the guards send message about. Inside this box is an outfit available to keep your identity hidden as you complete these tasks. You have Seventy-Two Hours to prepare for your first objective.

Your Tutor and Friend,

~Celestia”

Song set the scroll aside, and lifted the cloth out. It unfolded, and Song had to stand up on his hind hooves to see what it was. When he looked at it, he nearly dropped it in surprise: It was an outfit used by Olden Ages in Legends and Tales-otherwise known as an assassin’s outfit, used to complete assassinations in secrecy.

“Wow,” Song said to himself. “Celestia really wants me to do this assignment.” He set the cloak over the back of a chair and picks up the heavy book full of species. There was a paper inside it, and so Song opened up to that page.

Inside was the pages full of information and diagrams on Changelings. He looked at the sheet, and realized it was an information sheet of what to prepare for, and the items needed. He sighed, put everything inside the box-except the paper- and put it under his bed.

Song walked over to his desk, and opened the drawer up, only to find a sack of coins and a note on top of it. Song picked up the note and read it- all it really said was to use the coins to gather the supplies needed for his assignment. Song sighed, and grabbed his cloak. He slipped the journal in one pocket, the coins in the other, and went outside to do some shopping.

Suddenly, a letter flashed before him, and he came back to the present out of his memories. He picked the letter up, opened it, and saw a picture of a unicorn stallion with information under him. The stallion had a sky blue mane and tail, a blue coat, purple eyes, and two diamonds that looked exactly alike for his cutie mark. Above the picture, it was titled, “Gemni Hide.” Below the information was Celestia’s handwriting, and it said,

“Song,

This stallion is your next objective. Some of the guards already confirmed that he is a changeling, so I need you to eliminate him tonight. He is dangerous, on the account of information that we have received- he is a slave dealer. He kidnaps ponies from all over Equestria and sells them to the Changeling territory. He must be eliminated tonight at the latest.

~CelestiaAlso, always, always, have a contingency plan.”

Song’s eyes widened as he read this information. He knew Gemni Hide fairly well- he was an excellent smith and a good weapons dealer. Killing him might be hard. Who knows what trick he’s got under his hooves. Song thought to himself. He grabbed his cloak, and went to go find out Gemni Hide’s pattern.

By the time the Sun was setting, Song had uncovered a decent amount of information-except for the one small problem he found. When Gemni Hide went to lunch, Song snuck into his office, and recovered a binder(but he didn’t take it). Inside it were what looked like weapons deal, but after reading so much, Song realized it wasn’t a weapons deal- it was a hit list. He began to put the binder up, but then a photograph fell out, and curiously, Song picked it up. It was a photograph that was circled, and it said, “Free to feed on.” Song’s eyes widened, and he ran out of the building. The picture was Octavia.

Song stopped to take a breath. He was on top of a building, and the moonlight casted his shadow down. He scanned the ground in search of Gemni Hide, but it was hard to spot him through the many ponies that were walking around. He ducked down, hoping he wasn’t seen, and trekked along the roof top. Song then spotted a telescope resting on top of a balcony of a tree-like building. That can help me spot her! He thought, and ran across the rooftops towards it. The streets began to thin out, probably because the parties were starting, but Song didn’t pay attention to it.

When Song reached the edge of the roof, he took a gigantic leap across the huge clearing towards the house. He managed to grab the railing, and hoisted himself up. He quietly walked over to the telescope, and looked through it to find Octavia. He barely caught her walking around a corner into an alleyway, but he saw the glimpse of her tail. He started to go, but hear noise from within the house, and sidled on the wall right next to the balcony door.

Inside, a male voice, probably a colts, said, “C’mon, Twilight! Everypony’s having fun out here.”

Song began to wonder where he had heard the name “Twilight” from, when a mares voice responded, “Well, I’m sorry, Spike! But some ponies are trying to get some sleep for the Sunrise Festival!”

Song was thinking, then suddenly remembered Octavia. He went over to the edge, place one hof on the balcony rail, and vaulted off of the balcony. when he landed, he bent his legs, causing him to roll, then sprung off his hind hooves and began to run towards the alley.

When he reached the alley, he didn’t think ahead of time, and slid into the space before the alley. In the alley, Song saw Octavia unconscious, and roped to a wall. A changeling was before her, with it’s horn glowing, but it stopped when he looked at Song. Song ran forward, but it then hissed, shot a green bolt at him-which caught him in the throat- and Song fell down.

When Song got back up, he realized that he wasn’t hurt- as did the changeling saw- and the changeling began to run away. Song reached into his cloak, pulled out a knife, and threw it at the changeling, hoping for some luck. Miraculously, the knife impaled the changeling in the leg, and it tumbled across the ground. Song raced after it, but it spread it’s wings and took to the sky, trying to escape from Song.

You may be fast in the air, Song thought as he scaled a building. But I’m faster on the ground! He jumped on top of the building and sprinted after the changeling- but he was running out of roof tops, for the Changeling was heading to the Everfree Forest. As the edge of the last building neared, Song calculated the amount of force he needed. “Don’t do anything reckless, Song.” Celestia’s last words before he came to Ponyville echoed in his head.

Oh well, Celestia, Song thought, and took a massive leap towards the Changeling. He caught the changeling in it’s hind leg- the same one that happened to be impaled with the knife- and the Changeling howled with pain and fury. It didn’t dare land, but it attempted to kick Song in the face, but continually missed. Song brought out his hidden blade and tried to stab the changeling, but nearly fell due to the fact that the changeling was thrashing around.

This continued for a while, and the changeling finally tucked it’s wings and plummeted to the ground. They crashed to the ground, and Song rolled along the ground until he eventually hit a rock. Dazed, Song watch the changeling fly over a huge chasm, and gave chase. The only way across the chasm was a suspended bridge that didn’t look very stable.

Song didn’t hesitate to cross the bridge. He galloped straight onto it and ran through the fog that was covering the first quarter of the bridge and the bridge shook. But he stopped halfway, and watched the changeling land on the other side. It turned and glared at him, then pulled out a knife from it’s own mane.

Song continued to run across the bridge, but the changeling had finished cutting the one side, and was cutting the other. Song closed his eyes, counted to three, then jumped as hard as he could-and he calculated the time just right, for the bridge broke, and it fell from under him as he jumped.

As the bridge fell away, Song sailed miraculously across the deep chasm. He smiled, but his victory was short lived- the cliff wall was approaching him, and fast. Thing quick, Song managed to shift his body to a vertical position, and unsheathed his hidden blades. The cliff advanced, and Song stuck his hooves out as if he were bracing for a fall.

He collided into the cliff-his snout slamming into the side of it- and dangled there, a bit dazed. He shook the feeling off and started to climb using the hidden blades. When he reached the top, he rolled over onto the edge of the cliff and sat there, huffing. He turned his head sideways in the direction of the castle, and saw the changeling near the grand door. Song shakily got up and sprinted towards the changeling.

The great entrance door slammed shut just as Song ran to it. He pounded on the door a couple of times, then sat down. Damnit! He thought. If that stupid changeling hadn’t cut that bridge, I’d have him by now! Suddenly, a voice came in his head, and said, The voice sounded like a mare’s and Song wondered if it was his conscience or something. But, the voice was right. Song quickly got to his hooves and looked to see if there was another entrance. About eight feet off the ground, on the right side of the doors, was a window. Oh, joy. Song thought.

Song backed up several feet away. He then sprinted towards the window, and when he was just five feet away, he sprung up with all of his might. He flew towards the window, and with wide eyes, Song thought, Shit! I miscalculated! He braced himself, crashed through the window rather hard, rolled onto the floor, then came to a complete stop. He got up, and brushed himself off.

So much for a quiet entry like I had planned… He thought, and heard something crash from the direction of what looked like to be a library. He quietly sneaked to the entrance, and cautiously walked in, very alert. He saw little blood drops leading a trail, so he quietly followed it. He walked past many rows of books before seeing the trails lead down an aisle, so he followed it.

He went down until about halfway and saw the knife laying on the floor. There were no more blood trails, so Song sniffed to see where he had gone. He then heard something shuffling above him, and he quickly looked up to see something big falling towards him. Song instinctively jumped back to dodge the falling debris, and then felt his back hoof get wrapped by something, pulling upwards.

The momentum of Song jumping backwards caught on and as Song went up, he also swung backwards. He hit the edge of a bookshelf on the back of his neck, and white dots danced across his vision. The changeling was seen walking towards Song, and as his world faded around him, Song heard the changeling say,

“So, this is where you have been hiding, eh?” Song’s world went completely black.

***

Song woke up with a start, and then realized he couldn’t move. He tried to lift his head, but all he could feel was numbness. He heard the door open, and he looked in the direction of the sound. A nurse with red hair walked in with a clipboard, saw that he was awake, and before Song could say anything, she was back out. Song sighed and closed his eyes.

Many minutes later, the door opened, and Song looked in the direction of the door with his eyes to see the Princess Celestia walk in with…...Princess Luna?! Song looked back at the ceiling, his mind reeling. Duh! He remembered; last Night(he hoped the Summer Sunrise Festival was last night) was the night that Nightmare Moon returned. He was glad to see that Luna had returned normally.

Celestia and Luna walked next to his bed, and Celestia asked, “How are you, Song?”

Song opened his mouth to answer, but realized it was hard to speak. “What……. happened?” He asked.

Celestia hesitated, then began to explain. “Apparently, you were knocked out by the Changeling, and nearly died- if it were not for a pony who saved you.”

“Wh….o?” He asked.

She dismissed the question. “A pony brought you here, and the Nurses soon found that-not only you were wounded from several cuts and a concussion- but that you’ve been injected with the bad side of bat-pony poison. It’s a wonder that you haven’t died.”

Song smiled, but Celestia continued. “There’s somepony I would like you to meet,” She gestured to Luna. “My sister returned three days ago. Say hello to Princess Luna.”

Song’s eyes widened. “Three….days?!”

Celestia nodded. “You were out for three days, and on the verge of….death…” She obviously did not want to say the word, but she had to.

Luna trotted up next to Song and said, “Greetings, Song! my sister hast told us all about thee! We wanted to welcome thee properly!”

Song tried to nod, and said, “Well...I…...thank…...you…”

Celestia said to Luna, “We should let him rest. He needs to heal.” Luna nodded, and left the room. Celestia followed, but stopped and turned around. “Song,” She sighed. “I have cancelled your assignment. A new pony will be in charge of the assignment, until you are released. I just wanted to inform you.”

She left the room, and it fell quiet again. Song closed his eyes, and a tear trickled out.

Relations

Days passed, and Song soon lost count of how many days he had been in the infirmary. The bat-pony poison had worked it’s way through Song’s system, paralyzing everything except his head. In the first week, Luna had been kind enough to visit with Song and talk to him every time she was done raising and lowering the moon-but eventually her duties led her away from visiting him.

The nurses informed him and Celestia(three days after he was in the hospital) that he wouldn’t survive for the next two days. But, miraculously, he did, and the Nurses kept him to do tests on him to see why. Eventually they all left him alone, and now he was incredibly bored.

Song wanted to inspect the journal, seeing if there was any changes, but he couldn’t move at all. Celestia came in one day, and informed him of some rather changing news. She gave him the news of what was happening. Before she left she said, “Oh, and by the way,” She trotted to the door, and turned back to look at him. “I have been informed that some of your friends will be visiting you the day after tomorrow.” Song just sighed, and stared at the ceiling.

In the throne room, Celestia sighed, and Luna looked at her and asked, “What is the matter, Sister?” A scroll appeared in a burst of green flame and Celestia opened it to read it. At least Twilight’s making friends, Celestia thought as she put the scroll away.

“I’m just worried about Song,” She looked away. “it seems that there is always bad luck when it comes to him and friends,”

Luna scrunched her snout in thought. “Doth thou knowst why? Thou hast told me everypony can make friends,” She said, looking at her sister.

Celestia’s head did a sorta-yeah bob. “Well, he did make some friends….” Her voice trailed off, and Luna’s ears perked up, readying for a story. Celestia breathed in and said, “It was about eleven years ago…”

“But Celestia! Why can’t you teach me?” Song complained as him and the Princess walked towards the front of the castle.

“I believe you should be making plenty of friends and learning at the same time in a classroom full of colts and fillies your age. Also, you know good and well is that I, nor any of the guards, have any time to help you learn the basics.”

Song was going to complain, but they reached the front doors, and he just shut his mouth. A guard was standing by a carriage at attention. He noticed the Princess, bowed, and asked, “I take him to and from school, correct?”

Celestia nodded, turned to Song and said, “Now, I want you to go and behave properly and try to learn something. Do you think you can handle that?” Song nodded miserably. “Good. Now go with Iron Hide and go to school. Try to make some friends.” Iron Hide and Song got into the carriage and it began to leave. “And I want a good report when you come back!” She called after the carriage.

When they arrived at the school, a peach unicorn mare with a pink and blue curly mane and tail stood outside on the steps. Song and Iron Hide trotted up to the teacher, who leaned down to Song and said,”Hello, there! You must be my new student, Song Tune! “ She looked at the guard and said, “School lets out two hours after noon.” Iron nodded, and went back to the carriage.

The teacher gestured for Song to follow. She stood at the door entrance and said, “My name is Miss Starburst, and I will be your teacher. I hope you feel welcome. Celestia told me that you were a really bright colt.” She smiled, and Song forced his. She opened the door and Song trotted inside.

Inside the classroom, many colts and fillies were talking, but stopped when Song walked in. Miss Starburst walked to the center front of the classroom and said, “Class, we have a new student with us today. His name is Song Tune, and I would like for all of you to welcome him.” There was a monotone chorus of ‘hellos” and Starburst smiled. She turned to Song and said, “Okay, you can go sit behind Aura Burn, the white unicorn with amber hair in the back.” She pointed at a white unicorn in the far left-hand corner. There was an empty seat behind it, so Song went and sat in it.

Miss Starburst trotted to the chalkboard, and drew a familiar picture: the picture was Nightmare Moon. She trotted to her desk and said, “Now, class, since it’s close to that time, we will go further in depth of the Story of Nightmare Moon.” Song groaned on the inside, but the rest of the students perked their ears. Nice, Princess, Song thought. Put me in a class where I am more advanced than the others…. He leaned his head on his right hoof and decided to half listen to the teacher.

***

When lunch break let out, a group of colts and fillies had gotten together to go to a cafe just down the road. As they left, Song was a little interested, and trailed them without them noticing-a little technique he picked up from one of the guards. They reached the cafe without detecting him, and walked inside. Song just sighed and sat down outside, on the other side of the street.

Suddenly, he felt weight on his back, and was pinned to the ground. Something covered his eyes, and Song realized they were wings: lime green wings. “Guess who?” The pony said, with the voice of a filly, jokingly.

“I dunno. A pegasus? Lime green?” Song guessed.

She giggled and said, “Nope! Guess again! You should’ve had the time to know everypony’s name!” Song tried to somehow get her off, but she was surprisingly strong.

Then a colts voice was heard from Song’s front-left, saying, “C’mon, Soda. Let him up. He doesn’t look too happy.” The filly sighed, and got off of Song. He got up and dusted himself off, and then looked at the two ponies.

The mare had a lime green coat,and lime green eyes. She had a green spiky mane and tail, with a red jagged line running through it. Her cutie mark was a soda can, with what looked like an explosion on the can. He turned his attention towards the colt. He was a blue pegasus, with a black mane and tail, and green eyes. His cutie mark was an eighth note inside of two headphones, and frost all over it.

He smile kindly and said, “Hiya. I’m Frost Sound, and that” He pointed to the lime pegasus. “-is Soda Pop.” Song looked at Soda pop and realized how cute she looked.He instantly shook it off.

“Oh…..I…..I’m Song. Song Tune. Nice to meet you.” He smiled halfway, and stuck his hoof out.

Soda Pop grabbed his hoof and shook it so hard he thought it was going to fall off. “Like my buddy Frost said, I’m Soda Pop and you’re going to be my new friend, ‘kay? C’mon, let’s go!” She quickly trotted inside the cafe.

Frost walked up next to a confused Song, shook his head, and said, “That’s Soda Pop for you. Anyways, what’s your talent?” Song looked at his rump, and Frost realized. “Ooooh…..sorry. I-I didn’t see that you didn’t have one.

“It’s all right.” Song said.

“Cool! C’mon inside, I’ll introduce you to some of my friends.” He went and trotted inside, leaving Song outside by himself.

Song shook his head and thought, Well, maybe Celestia’s right. This doesn’t seem so bad. He quickly trotted inside to meet up with his new two friends.

***

“Hey,” A voice from the door at Song’s left said, and Song slowly turned his head. “Oh,” He said quietly. “Octavia.”

“I heard what happened. It was nice of you to protect me from that changeling.” She said as she walked to his bedside. Song moved his head back into place where it was, facing the ceiling.

“Any clue on who brought me here?”

“No.” She noticed something, then said, “Hey. You can speak more clearly. The nurse told me you could hardly speak. You must be healing well.” She sat down. “But the next day, when you weren’t found at home, Vinyl joked about Nightmare Moon capturing you and probably torturing you. Let’s just say she won’t be able to smell for a week.” She lightly chuckled.

Song tried to laugh, but couldn’t. “So, what are you doing here?” Song asked.

Octavia stopped laughing and said, “Oh!” She tapped her bowtie she was wearing. “The Symphony and I are practicing for tonight’s Gala.” Song’s smile faded, and he sighed. Octavia tapped his shoulder. “Don’t be depressed, Song. I want you to be happy. I’ll ask the nurse if I can play my cello for you later, alright?”

Song nodded, and Octavia went to the door. “Hey,” Song said, she turned around. “I-if anything happens, can you watch my violin for me?”

Octavia nodded, and said, “Song, nothing bad is going to happen to you. But I’ll keep it for you.” She walked out the door, and was gone.

Song had many friends who visited him throughout the day: Frost Sound-an old friend from Canterlot who was now training as a guard- came by and played a song on his guitar for Song; Snowwy managed to visit Song, but wasn’t allowed to give him coffee like she planned to; Silversoldier, a guard who he had met when Song was a colt; Caramella, a mare who occasionally traded with Bon-Bon(a candy seller) and a great friend of Song brought him sweets, but the nurses took them; and many other ponies that he had met in both Canterlot and Ponyville.

The last visitor of the day(before the Gala started) was none other than Princess Celestia herself. “are you feeling better?” She asked him, and he slowly moved his head up and down. She smiled kindly. “That’s wonderful.” She noticed the tear in his eye and asked, “Is something wrong?”

Song shook his head, and then asked, “Celestia…..I’ve never known, but why do you pressure friendship on me?”

The question caught Celestia by surprise. She thought about it, then remembered the incident with Nightmare Moon. “Well, I believe that when friends are made, the connection between them is strong. Friends can be the only thing that gets you through the Darkest of times.” She nuzzled his head, and said, ‘Sleep well, young one. You will need it.” She walked out of the room, leaving Song to ponder the words she had spoken.

The Seas roared with excitement. The Storm ahead raged on, beckoning Song to go into it. Song panted as he readied the sails and turned the ship straight into the fiery rampage.

The scene flashed, and Song noticed he was in the heart of the storm.Suddenly, the boat slanted upward, as if something was moving it, and launched into the air. Time seemed to slow down as two golden-yellow eyes opened in Song’s vision.

It chilled Song to his bone, and he could feel his fears welling up. It seemed to smirk at him, then time resumed. Then a black creature-resembling something like an enormous dragon- breached out of the waves, heading for the boat with it’s jaws agape. A voice echoed in Songs head as the dragon collided with the boat:

“I will diminish your light, little one.”

Song opened his eyes quickly, only to find himself back in the hospital room. He listened, his ear twitching, then finally called out, “Okay, okay, you can come out now. I know you’re there.” A movement in the shadows caught Song’s eye, and a black unicorn in a black trotted forward.

“Fascinating,” The unicorn breathed. “Nopony has ever detected me before. How did you figure it out?” The unicorn asked, and sat on something black.

Song sighed, “Please, with your aura blazing like that?” He turned his head to get a better look at him. The unicorn’s cloak disappeared in black wisps, and Song noticed the purple eyes first. Then the black and purple mane and tail, and the purple spider cutie mark. “Who are you?”

The unicorn responded, “I have a better one: What do you mean by ‘aura?’”

Song rolled his eyes and shot back, “What do you mean?” Song already figured about his unique ability. “I-I can detect a magical aura, and yours is fairly strong. Stronger than a royal guard’s, but weaker than the Princess’.”

Again, the unicorn breathed, “Fascinating.” He paused, then said, “The name’s Voidus. Voidus Shadehoof, Prince of Shadows.”

“Song…..Song Tune…” He looked at him, then asked, “If you’re a prince, then where are your wings?”

Voidus laughed quietly, then said, “The name ‘Prince’ is like a title.” Song’s eyes shut in pain, and Voidus asked, “Woah, are you alright?”

He slowly nodded, then said, “I...I would be fine if you would just turn your aura down. It’s giving me a headache.”

There was a long moment of silence, the Voidus rubbed the back of his head and slightly chuckled. “I-heh- don’t know how. Sorry. I-I’ve never really had to.”

Song thought, then said, “Ever tried imagining a valve deep within your sub-consciousness?”

“A valve?”

“Yes, a valve. Like one to a faucet. Imagine it, and close it. You need to have a clear mind, and a good focus, like you would for teleporting.”

Voidus nodded and said, “Okay, I think I get the jist of it…” He closed his eyes, and concentrated. Minutes passed, and Song’s headache began to fade. “Did it work?” He asked.

“Yup. It helps a lot when you’re in the presence of an enemy, or a monster, or-”

Voidus interrupted. “how did you know that?”

Song was silent, then responded, “Well, I’ve been studying magic since I was little…”

“An earth pony studying magic?”

“Is it against the law?”

“No…”

After a long moment of silence, Voidus asked, “Where did you learn of your physical abilities?”

“My what?”

“You know, when you were chasing that changeling. When you jumped that impossible jump across the chasm! I’ve never seen an earth pony do that before.”

“Song thought, then said, ”Well, I did train since I was a colt with one of the guards, so I guess I picked it up from them.”

Voidus nodded, then noticed the small journal lying on Song’s bedside table. “Hey, what’s this?” He picked it up and opened it.

Song sighed and said, “Nothing. It’s just a journal filled with blank pages. I’m still trying to figure out-” Song stopped in mid-sentence when Voidus showed him the journal filled with writing.

“Then why is there writing?” Voidus asked.

“I-I….that wasn’t there before. He thought, then asked, “Do you mind if you hold it for me? I can’t hold it myself, cause….” He looked down at his body. Voidus nodded and held the book to where Song could read it, and Song noted that the words in an ancient language, one that was unfamiliar.

He was about to tell voidus to put it back, but the letters began to float off of the page. They began to prance around the book, and then started to swirl around his head, making it hard for him to see. They then seemed to go into his eyes, leaving him in a world of dark.

***

Song opened his eyes to see a beautiful sunset before him. He looked down and realized he was sitting in a wheelchair, and he was on a balcony. Where in the Land of Equestria-

“The nurses moved you out here to get some fresh air,” A familiar voice said, and Song looked around, confused. The voice said, “Down here.” And Song looked down, but all he saw was his shadow. Two purple eyes appeared, and Song jumped.

“What the-?!” Song began, but a long black thing came out of his shadow and covered his mouth.

“Shhhh…” The eyes whispered. “It’s me...Voidus. Don’t yell. I don’t want Celestia to know I’m here.” Song’s shadow rippled, and Voidus slowly melted up out of it. He looked behind Song, and then went and quietly shut the balcony doors.

“....Why don’t you want Celestia to know you’re here?” Song asked suspiciously.

Voidus coughed, sat next to Song, and said, “Let’s just say there have been some….conflicts between us. More or less.”

After some silence, Song said, “Okay, you need to answer some of my questions.”

“Sure thing. Fire away.”

Song tapped his hooves, and suddenly realized he could move. “Uhhhhmmm...how did you do that?”

“Do what?”

“Melt out of my shadows.”

“Oh! That. Um...I did say I was the Prince of Shadows. I can physically change into a shadow. I-uh- can’t tell you where I learned that from, for it’s against our law.”

“Whose law?”

Voidus snapped his snout shut. “I shouldn’t have said anything.” He kneaded the ground with his hooves.

Song coughed. “So...what happened when I...passed out?”

Voidus smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.” He inhaled, then said, “Well, when I was showing you the book, you just kinda closed your eyes and passed out. So, I checked to see if you had a pulse, and you seemed fine. So I just left. The next day, I was lurking in the shadows when I overheard a conversation between a nurse and Celestia about you. It seemed you were in some sort of coma.”

“Coma?!” Song exclaimed, confused. “How long was I out?”

“Two days.”

Song stared at the burning sunset in disbelief. “I-I’m sorry for interrupting. Please continue.”

Voidus huffed. “Anyways, so I halfway investigated, but nearly got caught by a guard. Twice. Then nearly got caught by Celestia herself.” He shuddered. “But, apparently you caused quite the discord when you woke up in cold sweat.”

“When I...woke up? I-I don’t remember anything after passing out.”

Voidus thought, then said, “Did you wonder that there could be a possible ‘translation spell’ involved with that journal?”

“Yeah,” Song said. “But, I didn’t think there would be good ponies who would understand-”

“Whoah whoah whoah,” Voidus said, putting a hoof to Song’s mouth and said, “That’s not true.” His shadow melted up and formed into a stool, and he sat in it. He looked up a little, as if dreaming, and said, “There’s this pretty mare that just moved into Ponyville the day that you chased that changeling. She has a nice purple coat, a pretty mane, ooh and she’s a unicorn!” He suddenly blinked, and came back down to Equestria. “Oh, sorry” He turned slightly red and continued. “Anyways, she’s the town’s newest librarian, and she is super smart, and the translation spell would be like drinking water to her.”

Song shrugged. “I’ll check it out when I head back. Will you be in Ponyville when I return?”

Voidus just shrugged. “I don’t know. I’ll have to check up on my-” The balcony doors opened, and Song looked over to see Celestia walk out on the balcony. Song looked back to Voidus quickly-only to find that he wasn’t there.

Celestia sat next to Song. “I see you are wide awake,” She breathed, and Song just nodded. “Are you feeling better?”

Song nodded and raised his right hoof. “I can move everything, except I can’t feel my bottom half. What happened?”

Celestia looked at the sunset, and her horn glowed. The sunset began to go down and Celestia seemed disturbed. “Uh...well, the nurses checked on you, and they realized you were healing faster than anything they’ve seen before. I recommended that they took you outside to get fresh air.”

Song looked over at the other tower, where Luna’s room was. He had a feeling Celestia was telling the truth, but not all of it. He tapped his hooves as if to say something, then asked, “Did anything...interesting happen when I was out?”

Celestia cocked her head, and said, “No...not that I know of.” She looked away from Song, and thought, How foolish of me. Not everypony will accept the magic of friendship. She opened her mouth to say something, but then a shadow loomed over them in the moonlight.

Celestia looked up to see Luna gliding from her room to Celestia’s balcony. “Sister!” She called delightfully. She landed gracefully on the balcony railing, and stepped down. She smiled brightly and said, “I hath finished raising the moon.” She noticed Song was awake, and dipped her head in acknowledgement, saying, “Oh, Song! Thou seemest to be awake! How art thou on this lovely night?”

Song yawned, his hoof over his mouth, and said, “I-uh- am a bit better. The bat-pony poison is healing better than expected. Any leads on why?”

Luna shook her head. “‘Tis is extraordinary. Perhaps it is just the way thy body is.”

Song decided to change the subject. “Well, Luna. It seems you’ve grown accustomed to your daily routines. Are you enjoying it?”

Luna nodded and said, “Yes, I find it fitting.” She looked at Celestia, then asked, “Speaking of which; Sister, shouldn’t thou go to bed? Thy sun does rise early.” Luna chuckled.

Celestia lightly laughed and said, “Yes, Luna. Thanks for reminding me.” Luna nodded, spread her wings, and flew back to her room. Celestia got up and said, “I’ll have one of the nurses come and get you.” She went to the balcony doors, paused, and looked over her shoulder. “Song, I have to tell you something…” The silence told Celestia to continue. “I-I would like for you to come back to Canterlot. Back to the castle. I think it’s for the best.”

Song closed his eye, and even though Celestia couldn’t see, tears trickled from Song’s eyes. With a normal voice, he asked, “C...can you give me a month? As soon as I return to Ponyville.”

Celestia nodded and said, “I’ll give you one month, starting when you return to Ponyville.” She left, closing the balcony doors.

The tears dried on Song’s face, and he glared at the moon, as if it was all the moon’s fault that this entire dilemma happened. He cocked a smirk in his mouth, and thought, One month. thirty-one days for me to solve the answer to the Tomb.

***

Within two weeks, Song had regained the ability to walk, balance, and he then went through a “therapy” to learn how to walk again. By the end of the two weeks, Song had recovered fully and was ready to return to Ponyville-and his one month countdown started. He had said goodbye to a good nurse-whose name was Tender Heart-to his old friend Frost Sound, Captain Silver Soldier, and other guards he knew. he finally said bye to a stolid Celestia, and a I’m-not-trying-to-look-like- I’m-gonna-cry-but-I-could-probably-use-a- hug Luna, and was finally on the train, reading the journal that had somehow translated into Equestrian Common.

After three weeks of reading, studying, and drawing diagrams, Song now sat in his desk in his basement-staring at the journal. What secrets do you hold, Sulvania? Song thought, then flipped through the journal. Again. When he couldn’t take it anymore, Song threw the book at the wall in frustrated. For the fifth time. He thought of back when he tried showing it to Celestia, just five weeks ago.

“I cannot read it. It is an old language that is unfamiliar to me,” She had said. When Song attempted to show it to Luna, she simply shook her head-but Song could tell she was hiding something bigger.

He read maybe half of it(it was a magic journal, so Song didn’t know how long it was), but there was two things on his mind: “Sulvania,” and “Land northward.” He already discovered an interesting secret of Luna: a story of how she took hundreds of colts and fillies to make another Kingdom-it didn’t take a detective to put two and two together to see the connection between “land northward” and the colts and fillies of “Mother Night.”

Wait! Song thought, remembering what Voidus had mentioned to him. That pony! The librarian! She might be able to help me! With excitement, Song threw on one of his cloaks, slipped the journal in his pocket, and trotted outside.

As he trotted towards where the building that was a tree-he remembered that was the library because he’d visited it so many times before-he was greeted with “hellos” from numerous of ponies. Nothing’s changed in Ponyville He smiled and trotted to the treehouse door. He knocked, and waited patiently.

The door opened, and Song met eyes with a smiling purple unicorn’s. She had a dark purple and light purple mane with a tail, and purple eyes. She asked, “Hello, and how may I help you?” Song looked at her, and could’ve sworn he saw her somewhere. Suddenly, yet another sensation came upon him, but this one was overwhelming: almost as powerful as a-

Song shook his head and said, “Yeah. I-uh….need help on some….research.”

She nodded, understanding, and opened the door wider for him to come in. “Sure! I’d be glad to help!” She turned around and trotted inside. After he shut the door, Song turned around to see a fairly good-sized room lined with bookcases, and filled with books. It wasn’t big, but it might have what he needed. She stepped around some piles of books and said, “S-sorry if it’s a bit messy…” She then went to one of the bookcases and looked back at Song. “What kind of research?”

He thought about it, then asked, “Maybe ‘land northward’? Or ‘Sulvania’?”

The pony nodded and yelled, “Spiiiiiiike! Come here, I need your help!” From upstairs, a voice responded, “Coming, Twilight!” As Song wondered where he heard that name from, a baby Equestrian dragon came down the stairs. He was purple with green spikes, and green eyes.”What’s happening?”

Twilight(Song guessed that was the unicron’s name) said, “We are looking for anything pertaining to the words ‘land northward,’ and ‘Sulvania’ for this….” Spike was already searching as Twilight looked at Song.

“I-uh-oh! Song. I’m Song Tune.” He said, and sorta kneaded the ground.

Twilight blinked. I knew he looked familiar! His gray muzzle is gone! She stammered, “S-Song Tune? Weren’t you the colt that was wandering the castle while I was in Celestia’s school?”

That’s

Song looked away and said, “I...don’t like to talk about it.” Twilight nodded, and got up to help Spike.

She and Spike came over with stacks of books. Twilight said, “Spike has all of the books based on ‘land northward,’ and I have a few books on ‘Languages.’ Why? because Sulvania sounds like a foreign language to me.” Song grabbed a book, and him and Twilight quietly read the books.

After a couple of books, Twilight said, “Aha! Here we go!” She looked up and down at the page as she talked. “Here, ‘Sulvanian’ is an old dragon word used to describe a higher form of power, like the one who raises the sun, and the one who lowers the moon-Princess Luna and Celestia.”

“So like, godly? Royally? What?”

“Try Ancestral. Dragons believed these Ancestors are the ones who created the land. They are considered children of the night because they always seem like dark creatures.” She said, showing him the book.

Song zoned out after the words ‘children of the night.’ I know how to find the answer! The one place where I got myself into this mess! He then realized Twilight was trying to get his attention. He then asked, “Oh, sorry! What were you saying?”

She sighed, then asked, “I said, ‘do you think you’ve figured it out?’”

Song nodded. “Yes! And I know exactly where to look!” He looked around, as if wanting to help her clean up.

She noticed it, and laughed, “Oh, no!” She waved her hoof as if shooing him away. “It looks like this place all the time! You go find your land” She laughed like it was a joke.

Song chuckled, and excused himself outside. He waved goodbye, then his smiling face turned serious, and headed in the direction of the place that got him into this: the Everfree Forest.

***

When Song had reached the ravine, he noticed the bridge was fixed. I wonder who fixed it? He wondered when he crossed it carefully. When he trotted inside, he noticed how destroyed and ruined the castle looked. No wonder they abandoned it… He thought, and found the library. He saw the books, and began his search. Let’s see...’Ancestors’...’land northward’...’Sulvania’...’translation magic’...

It was now deep within the night, and Song pretty much didn’t find anything worth looking for, and went through about half of the library. He did however, find a rare spell on Translation Magic- it would prevent anything or anybody not worthy to the book, paper, scroll from reading it. Frustrated, Song went, “Grah!” and threw the thick book he was reading behind him. It wen Thunk! and the room rumbled.

Song jumped up, worried and whirled around behind him to see what he hit. A part of the wall slowly opened like a door, and Song cautiously walked forward to see what it was in it. Inside, were a few more bookshelves, and it looked like an office room to Song. But he didn’t care about what the room looked like-all he cared for was the interesting book on the pedestal.

He slowly walked in, and looked back to see if there was anypony there. Realizing, he face-hoofed and sighed. Idiot. Nopony has been here for decades. He trotted up to the book, and blew the dust that was on it off. He read the title, and found it interesting: Diary of Two Sisters.

“A diary?!” Song whispered, both surprised and excited. “This has to be the diary of Princess Celestia and Luna, so there has to be something about the land northward!” He found a cushion, and sat in it to begin reading. He didn’t find anything useful, until near the end of the journal.

“‘Tis had been decades since the sealment of Discord. Hath not I took proper care of My Children, I feared our Kingdom wouldst hath fallen. The Children I sent North are far out of mine Sister’s grap. The others lie within my domain-but my Sister will never know where.

~Princess Luna

“Found something interesting, did you?” A familiar voice behind Song, he drew his hidden blade, jumped up, and turned around to confront the voice-only to find it was Voidus.

“I...guess. It’s confusing.” Song said, his blade slowly went back into it’s sheath. “I found a diary that belongs to Celestia and Luna,bunt it reveals little of the ‘land northward.’ How did you even know I was here?”

Voidus sat on his shadow-literally- and snorted, “Please. Nothing passes through my forest without me knowing.”

Song nodded slightly, then asked, “So, what did you want to talk to me about?” When he saw the confusion on Voidus’s face, he said, “You said you were going to tell me something back at Celestia’s castle.”

Voidus then remembered. “Oh! Right. So what’d you uncover from the diary?”

“Well, something about her ‘Children,’ but I read almost the same thing in my own journal. I’m still lost.” He sighed.

Voidus leaned back, and said, “Well, I’m from a Tribe that knew of that certain incident…there was a childhood story that was always told, called the Tale of Origin.” Song’s ears perked, and Voidus continued.

“Many, many moons ago, like over a thousand years’ worth of moons, a discorded beast came to Equestia seeking it’s mystical power. His name was Discord, the Lord of Chaos. The Princesses of the Land, Day and Night, fought against Discord with ancient relics-from an unknown source-called the Elements of Harmony. They successfully sealed the beast away, but it left the Kingdom in a weak and desiccated state.

“The Younger Sister, after seeing what the destruction and chaos did to the ponies of the land, proposed that she would make a new Kingdom where they could rule the Night. But the Older Sister Objected, for she feared that the Kingdom would tear in half. The Younger, despite her Sister’s warnings, decided to go behind her back and do what she thought was best for the Kingdom.

“Some how-unknown to us- the Younger gathered hundreds, possibly thousands of fillies across the land. She gathered them up, and they were known as the Children of the Night; and she was their Mother Night. The Younger one told her children of her plan, and set them into two groups, unbeknownst why.

“She sent the first group to an untouched land far in the north, out of the Sister’s grasp. The Second? Here in Equestria, to prove that the Older Sister was blind. Or so we thought.”

“‘Or so we thought?’” Song echoed.

Voidus nodded, and coughed. “Well, Celestia figured us out somehow, and my entire Tribe was destroyed. By her, the one who believes in peace.” He said it bitterly, as if he wanted to…

Song shook that feeling off, and thought, Celestia wouldn’t do that...would she? Song rubbed his shoulder and asked, “Do you know why she did it?”

Voidus shrugged, and said, “I-I don’t know why she did it...she just did.” He pulled out a piece of folded paper from his shadow, and said, “A pack of Timberwolves found me and took me in. This is all they found when they discovered the…” His voice trailed off, and Song nodded, understanding.

Song took the paper,and unfolded it. On the paper was a map of the entire world. Song noticed at the top of the paper was a large landmass circled in red(Song hoped the red wasn’t what he thought it was). Next to it, also in read, said, “The Land Northward?”

“That’s where I think the first group went. I’m not for sure, but I’m sure you are convinced. I was meaning to check it out, but I have a pack to take care of…” His voice trailed off. He then asked in a serious voice, “Do you think...you can-”

Song didn’t hesitate. “Yes. I need to go there. It seems to be attracting me. I-I think… it’s fate.”

Voidus then said, “So, you’ll do it?” He held his hoof out, ready to accept the offer.

Song touched his to Voidus’s and said, “You got it! I promise!”

***

Broad Rail didn’t look up from his morning newspaper when the bell above the door jangled. Nor when a pony trotted up and ask, “Could I buy your fastest ship? It needs to be as small as possible.”

Broad, a peach earth stallion with light brown hair, chuckled as if what the stallion asked was a joke. “You best have some gud dough on ya, ‘cause it’s gonna cost ya-” he stopped talking when he heard heard the sound of a bag full of coins being tossed onto the counter. He looked up and saw a fairly large bag of coins with some coins spilled out on the counter. Behind the bag of coins was a blue earth stallion with gold eyes, and the white and gray mane. The weed that Broad was chewing on dropped out of his mouth when his jaw went slack.

The stallion, with a stolid face said, “I’m pretty sure that’s enough to buy three.” Broad reached for it, but a flash of silver showed beneath the stallions cloak-Broad realized it was a hidden blade. “I’m not threatening you or anything, nor am I a fugitive. I just want to make sure we’re on the same page.”

Broad nodded and said, “The-uh...smallest fastest ship I have is a ten-pony ship, but she’ll do.” He pulled out the registration form , but the pony shook his head.

“No. Don’t put my name on my registration form. You can have all of the money if you follow what I have to say. If anypony comes around asking for me, deny my existence. Understand?” The pony was dead serious.

Broad nodded quickly and said, “Well, ah at least hafta know ya name. May ah ask what it is?”

Song Tune looked out to the rising sun, and said, “My name’s Song. Song Tune. and I’m heading to a Land of Enchantment.”

The Dark Land

The salty waves crashed over the deck of the small ship-again. Song groaned, tied the wheel to place, and went to go lengthen the sails. I’m no expert, He thought. But I’m pretty sure that I’m near the land. It’s been about three days. I’m actually glad I bought that food before I bought the ship. He looked at the horizon and saw a large storm and a fog forming. Damnit. Just to make my day worst.

Lightning struck, and Song felt his fur stand on end. His heart raced as he went back to the wheel. He noted that the wind seemed to be flowing right into the fog. Carefully and skillfully, Song brought out a compass and the map out, while steering, and calculated where he was. Song cursed, and said, “I didn’t want to be right, but it looks like there’s no other choice.” Song steered the ship right into the fog.

The storm was a lot fiercer than Song had thought it was.Waves suddenly became larger, the wind picked up, and the boat rocked violently. Song’s heart pounded and he could feel something wet on his cheeks amis from the rain. Remain calm, Song, The voice had returned to his head again. Do not let your mind open. Fear will try to swallow you up in this sea.

Once again Song listened. He took several deep breaths, but was still panicked. A large wave made the ship angle upwards to the stormy sky. When he came to the top of the wave, for a fraction of a second he could make on the horizon a large, black line: land.

A mighty roar erupted, and Song could feel the entire ship lift off of the sea towards the sky. The boat seemed to hang in the air, before angling towards the ground and plunging to the water. Song held tight to the steering wheel, and shut his eyes. As the boat crashed into the water, one thing was on Song’s mind: I didn’t even get to say goodbye to- The darkness engulfed him, and Song slipped into unconsciousness again.

***

The Keeper blinked, and she yawned, tears forming in her eyes. She lifted up her head off of her large desk, and saw it was cluttered again-many books were open and sprawled out before her. Sweet Census, She sighed and began to close the books she didn’t need. I fell asleep again. Life said I shouldn’t stay up late, but many of these things are confusing… She then recalled the dream she had, were also confusing. Rain seemed to be in my eyes, but I could tell that I...wasn’t...me…. She stood for a fraction of a second, then everything clicked.

The Keeper ran into the her mass library, and shouted, “Shaaaaade!” A minute later, a sleek black dragon the size of a horse came in. He had purple eyes, and silver-tipped spikes. He was bigger than The Keeper, but the difference could hardly be seen.

“What do you need, Keeper?” The dragon’s rich voice responded, awaiting orders.

“Where in the name of Albion is the Book of Rev-” Something tapped her head while she was searching through books, and she turned to see a thick purple book attached to an iron claw; which was attached to a mischievous-smiling dragon's tail. The Keeper gave him a short glare, grabbed the book, which made Shade-the black dragon- to laugh hysterically.

“This is no laughing matter!” She scolded him, and headed back to her room- with Shade following. “And you should refrain from teasing. I might just do something that would've made you regret teasing me, like last time.” Shade instantly shut up.

“Come on, keeper! Someone’s gotta lighten the dark skies!” He was speaking metaphorically, but it seemed like a cruel joke.

The Keeper cocked a smile, taking the statement literally, and opened the book. “Oh, Somepony will.” She said once she stopped flipping through the book.

“What do you mean?” Shade asked, peeking over head head, his chin resting on her head as they both looked at the book.

She pointed to the words and said, “Here, let me read it, and see if it sounds familiar:

‘Kin of Your Kin

Light will send

The one of Note, and the one Anew,

Shall bring the world into one solid hue.’”

Shade snorted. “So what about it? Isn’t that the Prophecy from when Mistress Skyfire was alive?”

The Keeper jumped to her hooves suddenly, hitting Shade in the throat, and exclaimed, “Exactly! That means that the Prophecy is still working-”

She was cut off when the book began to glow a golden light and shake violently. Both The Keeper and Shade jumped behind The Keeper’s throne-like chair, shielding themselves just in case something happened. Light busted from the pages, and the pages began to flip fast on their own. Suddenly, everything stopped-the pages rested peacefully, the book didn’t shake, and the light died down.

The Keeper and Shade peeked out from behind the chair, and cautiously approached the book. She picked it up, and said, “L-Look!” Shade looked over The Keeper’s shoulder as she read the most interesting-yet fate changing-lines:

“‘The Colt comes by Sea,

He will heed to thy Millennial Plea.

He comes from the Sun,

Who against Nightmare has won.

His fur ripples like the Ocean,

His Power and Courage stronger than the Dragon Ten,

And his eyes shine as he listens and waits

For only his Wisdom will escape his Checkmate.’

The Keeper sat down, thinking. “This….is the most troubling of all Prophecies!” She said after what seemed like an eternity. Silently, she got up and began packing thick books into her bag.

Shade, uncertain, tapped his claws together. “Uhhh...Keeper? Are you-is there something wrong? it’s only a prophecy.” He asked as The Keeper trotted to the door. She stopped, looked to the side, and she said in a deadly serious tone, “Have General Winter order a Court Meeting. Now. Tell her that it’s the matter of a powerful pony falling into the clutches of Dark. It could determine the outcome of the war.”

“Anything yet?” The sudden voice made Star Blaze spin around-her scythe weapon in her hooves- nearly cut off a soldier’s head. The soldier knocked it aside with a three-foot long gold pole. When she noticed the scary-looking armor, she knew that the stallion was a soldier like her, and she saw the spikey gold and blue tail. When she noticed the sky blue feather earrings, she dropped her weapon, narrowed her eyes, and furiously hissed, “Cyclone Storm! You nearly scared the Echo out of me! Be glad I didn’t cut off your head!”

The pegasus chuckled and while moving his pole as if making a point, said, “But you almost did. You’re getting better.” He took off his helmet, and shook his static-like mane to get the knots out. He set his helmet next to him by a large rock that was on the opposite side of Star. “Why did you want me to come over here? I got the message from Kasai.” He said, referring to Star’s Sol-a spirit in the form of an elemental energy that allows all types of ponies and dragons to use enchantment.

She snorted, still mad at him, and looked out at the open plain. They were on a mountain passageway of the Thrae Mountain range. The plains before them were the Plains of Crimson, supposedly splashed with blood of war. “I-I thought I saw a platoon of twenty ponies dressed in Dark armor heading toward the Gulf of Serenade. I called you over here for back-up.”

“Ah. Are you sure?” He asked, straightening a bit and being more alert.

She nodded, and pointed towards the ruins of some architectural structure, and said, “That’s where I last saw them before I sent the message.”

“When?”

“Maybe an hour and a half before you got here. I watched them head towards the sea. They were heavily armored, and looked pissed.”

“Should we call for The Keeper? General Winter? I got a message saying I have to be at a Court Meeting, Lieutenant.” Cyclone said, noting Star’s rank: 1st Lieutenant.

She snorted and said, “The Keeper and Winter can wait. I want to know what they are looking for. I...I think it’s big.”

“Big as in size, or big as in…?” His voice trailed off, but he already guessed the statement.

“We’re going to wait it out, and that’s final.”

“Whoah whoah whoah! Who said you could order me around? I’m the captain here!” He said, raising his hooves in a what-the-heck kind of statement.

She glared at him,fire in her eyes, and said, “We are not leaving. The Dark Army has never been this close to the border. We can never know what they are planning if we don’t spy a bit.”

Cyclone rested and said, “Fine, fine. But I’m telling ya; I’m not going to get demoted because of your hunch.” They were both silent after that. Cyclone finally asked, “I...I hate bringing up the subject; but do you think this war will ever end?”

Star played with her scythe-a wicked curved blade with a spear head on the top, and a dragon talon on the bottom-and finally said, “One day I eavesdropped on The Keeper and Queen Twilight talking. Apparently, Skyfire’s daughter, Midnight Symphony and Zunar, her second husband, died. The son, according to The Keeper, was sent by Nightshade Star and a captain named Iron Fire took the colt to a 'place of Hope,' but they never made it.”

“So, the Prophecy was false?”

Star glared at him. “No, it wasn’t. Only the bodies of Iron Fire and what looked like Nightshade Star returned.” She looked back out to the plains

“‘What did the bodies look like’?”

Star nodded. “It was burned to a crisp. The only way The Keeper knew it was Nightshade was the amulet she wore, and her teeth. Life helped with the teeth.”

Cyclone rubbed his mane. “You’re just like The Keeper, y’know?”

Star looked back at him. “How so?”

He sighed. “You both believe some savior will come and rescue us from this Chaos and Darkness. It’s astonishing.”

“Don’t you believe somepony will?”

Cyclone was silent, and time passed on. Suddenly, Star quietly whispered, “Hey! They've returned! hand me your eyeglass.” Cyclone crawled right next to her, and handed her a small golden rod that was narrow at one end, and expanded out towards the other. She stretched it out, it expanding two feet, and looked through it.

“Well?” Cyclone asked after what seemed like an eternity.

“Well,” She replied, putting the eyeglass into it’s original form and handed it back to Cyclone. “The good new is they have returned,” She grabbed her scythe and crawled forward a little. “The bad news is that they have a prisoner.”

“Who?”

“I...don’t know. He’s got blue fur, but he’s not from around here.”

“What do we do?” He asked, then saw the way she looked at him and smiled mischievously. “I…..don’t like the way you’re looking at me.”

“We crash their twenty-pony party, of course. It’ll be a piece of cake! Just stay outta sight until I give the signal. Cause a diversion or something.” She said and began to crawl down the mountain. Cyclone sighed, and quietly took to the everlasting cloudy sky.

Star’s face went serious and began making her way down the mountain:fast, but quietly. She snuck up behind a large boulder at the base of the mountain. She peeked over the boulder. She was right- there were twenty changelings, and two were carrying the mysterious blue pony on a long rod. The pony looked unconscious, and Star hoped he wasn’t dead.

As if on cue, a rumbling sound was heard in the sky. When Star looked back down from the sky, the changelings all unsheathed their weapons and were looking at the sky. Star pulled out a crimson rod, and thought, Okay, Forge. Hopefully you updated Kasaifura…. She tapped the middle, and slid her hoof out in one quick motion. The three-foot rod extended six feet. on the end was something that looked like a square box. It folded out revealing a four-foot blade that curved down-resembling a scythe. On the bottom was a tipped blade like the top of a sword.

Star peeked back over, and felt her hoof ignite on fire. Keeping her flaming hoof out of sight, Star prepared to shoot the fire towards the sky, but then what happened next was too fast for her eyes. The stallion(who was tied up) managed to get his back right hoof untangled from the ropes. He planted it on the ground, and spun three-hundred-and-sixty degrees- even though it was just a pole, the pole spun with such force, that it ripped the throats of the two ponies that held him captive.

She cursed, and shot a large fireball towards the sky, and jumped on top of the rock. She jumped out and spun as she flew towards the small platoon. One of the changelings noticed her, and barked a command; just as Star decapitated him. Just as she did, another soldier came to her right with a broadsword and swung down. Star barely had time to cut, so she brought her scythe in front of her and the broadsword stopped on the scythe’s staff.

The soldier smirked, and the scythe broke in half. Star fell back, and the top of her scythe clattered away from her, leaving only the bottom half in her hoof. The soldier smiled with victory-until the bottom of the staff opened up and a blade shot out. Star yelled and stabbed the soldier in the throat, and he fell to the ground, blood leaking out.

Another soldier, not surprisingly a changeling, brought up a crossbow to fire, but Star opened her mouth and fire erupted out of it, burning the changeling. She fought a couple of more soldiers(some of them were changelings or bat-ponies), killing them, and then she stood there, panting. Suddenly, something hit her from the back, and she fell down. As she fell, she twisted to get a better look at her assaulter-it was the blue earth stallion that was tied up.

He pressed the curved blade-a scimitar-against her throat and shouted, “Who are you?! What do you want with me?! Why did you help me?!”

Gasping for air, Star gasped, “I-I was only….helping….you!”

The pressure lessened as the stallion became confused. “I-I don’t understand you-” He slumped forward, the blade falling from his grasp and to the ground, and he slumped against Star, unconscious. Star slowly shoved the stallion off of her, and saw Cyclone standing above them, his six-foot rod had shrunk down to four feet, and he was holding it in his mouth.

As Star got up, Cyclone's rod shrunk down to three feet, and Cyclone put it in it’s sheath-a small clip that was right by his right wing in his armor. “Who in the name of Census was that?” He questioned Star.

“I-I really have no clue, but I do know one thing:” She looked at Cyclone with a small gleam of hope in her eyes. “He’s from Equestria.”

***

Song opened his eyes and saw a white ceiling. How many times is this gonna happen?! He thought. Deja Vu, much? He groaned as a headache entered his body, and he sat up-but went half way when heard heard a chink! He looked down and realized he was in chains. Almost instantly he began to yank on the chains, trying to break free.

Cool it, Song. The voice came back in his head. Listening yet once again, Song thumped his head back onto the pillow. He heard a door open to his left, and turned his head to see a white-furred unicorn mare with a sky blue mane and tail trotting in with a nurse’s uniform on. When she saw that Song was conscious, she stopped in her tracks, and all Song could manage was a, “Hey,”

The nurse took two steps back and called over her shoulder in a foreign language; “Custodes! Huc!” Two stallions trotted in, wearing what seemed to Song very deadly armor.

“Yes, Medicus?” One of them responded.

The nurse looked at Song, as if being suspicious, and looked back at the two ponies-Song guessed they were guards. “Dum ego istunc The Keeper.” The two guards nodded, and after the nurse left the room, the two guards stood together, shoulder be shoulder.

Song sighed lightly, and shifted his head back to where he could look at the ceiling. Calm, Song. There’s always a way out of everything. The voice said, and Song suddenly thought, Maybe I should have stayed in Equestria, and stay with Celestia. What was I thinking?! Suddenly, the door opened, and a silver unicorn trotted in.

Song couldn’t get a good look, but he could see that she had a gold mane, and her blue eyes twinkled. Another pony trotted in-the one that Song had cornered-he still couldn't see what she looked like;thick scaly armor covered her body, a jaw-mask covered her jaw, and a pair of tinted goggles covered her eyes.

The unicorn stopped in front of his bed, and the black unicorn trotted to the side of it, and Song noticed that the black unicorn wasn’t a unicorn, but an alicorn: the blue tipped wings with the gold made her more interesting. She pulled up a chair and sat in it. After studying him for a while, she asked, “Tu quis es?”

Song slowly shook his head, saying, “I-I don’t understand you….”

The alicorn looked a little surprised. “Oh, Equestrian, I see. You’re from Equestria right?”

Song literally almost replied with a sarcastic comment, but nodded instead. “Uh, yes! I am! May I ask how do you know Equestrian Common?”

The white unicorn trotted forward a bit and explained, “It is required for all colts and fillies to learn Equestrian as much as they learn….” She tried searching for a word.

“-Sulvanian. Twilight would beg to differ, but she’s not present in this room.” The black alicorn said to Star, then looked back at Song. “I’ll repeat my question: W-”

Song beat her to it. “Who are you?”

The alicorn glared at him, and irritably said, “Fine. My alias is The Keeper, my true name is unknown. What is your name?”

Song suddenly remembered about his cloak. “My-My journal! I brought my journal with me, and it was in my inside pocket in my cloak!” He looked around the room and saw his cloak on the wall.

Interested, The Keeper went over and inspected it. “There’s no journal in here,” She looked back at Song as if he was a liar.

Song’s eyes widened. “Damn Captors!” He shouted. “One of them must’ve gotten away!”

The white unicorn said, “Impossible! Cyclone and I made sure that they-”

The Keeper interrupted, “Hush, Star Blaze!” She turned her attention towards Song. “What was in the journal.”

“Very, very important information.”

“State your name, now!”

“What does my name have to do-?”

“Now!”

Song raised sighed heavily and said, “Fine, fine! My name is Song Tune! Happy?”

The Keeper’s eyes dilated, her eyebrow raised up, and she whirled to Star. “Order a search infantry to find that journal! And while you’re at it, tell General Winter to authorize an emergency Court Meeting!” Star put her left hoof across her chest, and The Keeper returned it. Star then quickly left the room.

The Cartographer barked an order to the guards, and they unchained Song. The Keeper began to talk to the guards, but Song wasn’t really paying attention. Something brushed past his neck, and he whirled around to see what-or who- it was. He felt something hit his hoof, and looked down to see a folded paper lying next to his hoof. Curiously, he reached down and picked it up. He opened it, and realized it was the part of Celestia’s and Luna’s diary he ripped out.

Suddenly, he was aware of The Keeper next to him. “What’s that?” She asked. Song noticed that they were alone in the room, so he just handed the paper to her. She read it, and Song swore he could hear her heart stop. She trotted to the door and said, “Come with me.” And kept trotting. Song was confused for a moment, but he trotted after her.

They walked into a large hall, and Song stared up in amazement-the ceiling was decorated, but it was at an unbelievable height. The Keeper raised an eyebrow and said, "Do you fancy Dragon Architecture?"

"Never seen it, but it takes the breath away." Song replied.

The Keeper didn't even bat an eyelash at the architecture. “If you think this is amazing, just wait until-” She stopped short, and said in a sad tone, “until we get our old castle back…” She continued trotting without another word.

The Keeper led him through the labyrinth of halls and the eventually came upon two great doors: One side completely made of pearl, and the other onyx. Song noticed the six “pillars” in the hall were actually statute dragons of different jewels. He also noticed that the hall had many symbols-all looking dragon like.

Beyond those doors lies the Dragon Queen. The younger one, that is.”

“Dragon Queen? As in...”

“Yes, Song. An actual Dragon Queen. She’s been ruling this Kingdom for about...900 centuries? I lost count honestly. Anyways, I’ll be translating for her because she prefers to speak...Sulvanian.” She chuckled.

“Sulvanian?”

“Yes. The dragons speak Sulvanian, as do the ponies. Sulvania translated to Equestrian means ‘Ancestor.’”

Song thought, then said, “So through complications...this is the Land of Sulvania?”

“You catch on quick.”

“I had a great mentor and friend.” She snorted, and Song couldn’t help but ask, “How long have you been around?”

The Cartographer was silent. “A few millenniums, give or take. I remember meeting Queen Elysia when I was little. That’s probably the only memory I have.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’ll explain later. Now, you need to look...presentable.” She fixed Song’s mane and tail with her magic, and got rid of all of the odd marks on his coat. “Now, you do what I do, and say what I tell you to say. Shall we?” She asked him, and he nodded slowly. As they approached the door, two dragons that were standing on their hind legs-who had spears crossed in front of the door- un-crossed the spears and let The Keeper and Song in the doors.

Inside, Song was too impressed to believe what he saw. Everything shone-literally made up of jewels and gems. There were six stained glasses: three on the left, and three on the right. Song gasped in awe and looked at each and one of them;

The first one on the left was a white female dragon with gold eyes that looked old and wise. She held a book in one claw and looked like she was reading it. The one next to the white dragon was a dark blue female dragon with blue spikes and purple eyes, who was looking at the moon. The one next to that was a female dragon who was green with light green spikes and blue eyes. Flowers and plants were growing all around her claws.

Song looked on the other side of the room and noticed the first glass had a fiery crimson male dragon with orange spikes. His eyes were completely erupted in flame, and he looked intimidating. The one next to that was a crealuen dragon with blue spikes and white eyes, and he had some weird water flowing around him. And the last one was a black dragon with silver spikes and blue eyes. He had a lightning scar over his eyes, and flashes of lightning behind him.

“I take you have a liking in dragon art,” A voice said to Song’s left. He jerked his head to the front of the throne room: He just noticed the rather large blue female dragon sitting on an amethyst stone next to a larger gold throne. She was laid-back on the throne, her right claw curled into a fist under her chin.She was a shade darker than Song’s fur, and had black tipped spikes and purple eyes.

Song didn’t speak, until The Keeper nudged him. He nodded. “I...enjoyed the gigantic column sculptures outside the door.”

The dragon repositioned herself and sat properly on her throne. “Excellent. I am Queen Twilight of Dragonvale. Now, may I ask who you might be?”

The Keeper bowed, and motioned for Song to copy her. He did, and responded, “The name is Song Tune, ma’am.”

She chuckled and said, “Such manners, such manners! I enjoy creatures with manners like yours!”

He nodded, then asked suddenly, “May I ask: who are those dragons? The ones in the stain glass?”

Twilight looked at them, as if she knew them personally. “They are the dragons’ version of the Ancestors. The white dragon is Astria, Ancestor of the Day, and the blue one is Twilight, Ancestor of the Night. The green dragon is Faro, Ancestor of Life, and the fiery dragon is Scintil, Ancestor of Fire. The sky blue dragon is Serenade, Ancestor of the Water, and the lightning-looking one is Welkin, Ancestor of the Thunder.”

Song sat down, looking at all of the dragons. One of the dragons caught his attention. "Wait...Twilight? Does that mean you're-"

"An Ancestor? My, you are courteous and smart! Indeed, I am the Ancestor of the Night."

Song looked at each of the details in the stain-glasses. “Who are the Ancestors...really?”

Twilight put her claws together, thinking of how to say things. “The Ancestors...are, well, Ancestors. Legends say that the Great Goddess Faust created the dragons to keep a Chaotic World in order. They are Great Dragons capable with magic far more than any creature can comprehend. Much like Celestial Beings, which are what ponies call the Alicorn Princesses. The Ancestors are based on elements of this world, and all, save two, haven’t been around for millenniums. We have some information in the library.” Twilight said, waving her claws around while explaining this. Song nodded, and Twilight asked, “Would you mind telling us your story?”

Song nodded and told them everything from the time Celestia gave him his new assignment, up to where he killed the changelings. He described everything that he has learned, and heard. “And if you could kindly hand over my journal, if you've found it, I would be happy.”

“Journal…?” Twilight asked, her expression grew serious. She looked at The Keeper, who shrugged.

“Yes, yes. It was small enough to fit in my robe. It was a journal of some royalty-”

“Royalty?!” Twilight said, her eyes widening in surprise.

“Yes, yes. Some royalty’s name was...Requiem? I would have to-”

Everypony and dragon jumped in the room when Twilight’s claw curled into a fist and slammed on the arm of the throne so hard that it cracked a bit. “'Some Royalty?' Do you realize the power in that name?! He brought peace to a civil war by showing up! And that journal! Do you know how long we have searched for that priceless journal?! Do you?! This war is unbalanced!! Imagine the destruction caused by one stupid colt!”

Song was offended. He wouldn't let some Queen in an unknown country tell him the same thing everypony had told him his whole life. "'Stupid'? Who do you think is the one who thought to ask my friend to cast a spell on this?! Certainly not you!"

Twilight opened her mouth to object that statement, but The Keeper interrupted by jumping to her hooves and raising her voice. “My Resheklin! He didn’t know how valuable that journal was! He-”

Twilight didn’t want to hear it. She continuously slammed her claw on the arm and shouted furiously in her language. Eventually, the arm broke and landed to the floor with a loud Thud! She calmed down, and with her other claw, she leaned on it and put her head in it. “Leave,” She quietly said. “All of you.” Everypony and dragon quietly left the room, and the doors shut loudly behind them.

Outside in the grand hallway, The Keeper spoke to the ice pegasus. “General, we need a Court meeting right away. This is an emergency.” The pegasus nodded, and flew away. The Keeper looked back at Song, only to see him with an expression saying, you-better-explain-now. “I know, I know...an explanation is needed.”

“You think?”

The Keeper began walking. “Come, I’ll explain everything.” They walked down the hall, and she began her explanation. “Let's start back at the Time of Creation. There were two forces that existed in all universes: Evil and Good. In our universe, as the legends foretold, the keepers of good and evil were two mares; Malevolent and Clarity. Malevolent and Clarity have been battling for a very long time, and it was one time that Malevolent would actually win when she appeared."

"The Goddess that twilight spoke of?" Song asked.

The Keeper shot him a look and said, "Yes, now stop interrupting me. Now, The Goddess Faust came forward and brought with her her Wisdom, Courage, and Strength, and cleaved two pieces from each of the beings. From Clarity she created our world, and sustained life with one piece and the other she created the Ancestors: Dragons of Old. With the other, she created the balance of Good and Evil, and she didn't know what to do with the second piece-until she found out a terrible truth. Malevolent had found a place made entirely from the Evil and Hatred from the all Universes and Dimensions called the Resontia, and was using said place to unbalance the war. So, naturally, Faust did the unexpected: she made a being that would control the Resontia and keep Malevolent from entering. His name was Penumbra Obscurum, the Ancestor of Darkness.

"As time passed on, the land forms were all created into one giant land form that Faust called 'Pandora'. Faust needed all races to be equal, so she created what you now know as the Alicorn Princesses, Princes, Kings, and Queens. They each are in charge of a daily thing in life, whether it to control the Sun or Moon, the seasons, the emotions, you name it. Anyways, back to what I was talking about. There was no time, and faust's last wish was for everypony to have a life-which meant time. So, a pony was selected and given the job to rule as Timekeeper. Around the same time, and terrible thing happened; Malevolent had influenced Penumbra somehow, and he had turned into a demon for the thirst of power. He began to rage war on the Ancestors, and by using the Resontia and its creatures, he had the upper claw.

"Astria and Twilight, along with two Celestial mares, searched the land far and wide for the ancient tool that Faust used to create Penumbra out of Malevolent: The Reaping Tool, as I call it. They approached penumbra with said weapon, and continued to attack him. The two Celestial mares, who were quite young at the time, used the Sun and the Moon's magic to hold Penumbra down as Astria drove the tool into Penumbra's heart. from there, Penumbra dissolved into nothing and the portal to the Resontia shut.

"The leader of the Ancestors, Census, decided to split the Reaping Tool into twelve parts, and separated six of them throughout the land. The most powerful six, where given to another Celestial Being to hide himself, but his whereabouts where unkonw at that time-until he makes an appearance in Equestria."

“Uh-huh,” Song said, thinking. “These six elements that were given to this Celestial Bieng...are they similar to the Elements of Harmony?”

“Elements of...Harmony…?”

“Yes. Back in Equestria, six friends came together and defeated Nightmare Moon with the Elements of Harmony.”

“You didn’t mention the Elements of Harmony part…”

“True. Now, what’s this ‘war’ Queen Moonstar keeps talking about?”

The Keeper was silent. They continued to trot forward, and she finally spoke. “Over a thousand years ago, in a south continent, lived two sisters. They-”

“Created a kingdom, which was destroyed by a chaotic beast, and Luna went a bit crazy, gathered up colts and fillies, and brought half of them here? I’ve heard that story before.” Song interrupted.

The Keeper sighed with relief. “Well, that saves a long explanation.” She cleared her throat and said, “Where did you leave off on the story?”

“They established a Kingdom and brought peace to the land.”

She nodded. “The first King’s name was Requiem. He wedded to his wife named Melody.” Song saw something spark in her eyes. “They brought music to the land, and they prospered for a long time. When Nightmare Moon was sealed generations later, there was a ruler named Ensemble. He had found an ancient orb from the Time of the Ancestors-at least I think so-that had a little power left in it from when it was originally used.

“He had showed it to me, and despite my warnings, he kept the orb. Blinded by the evil in it, the orb had influenced his mind to evil thoughts. Ensemble created a staff to power the orb, but that was his second mistake. In the middle of one of our grand festivals, an all-out attack was launched on our city. Ponies fled here, with the help of the two Ancestor sisters, Astria and Twilight, and made it safely. We believed that the one who attacked the city was a Fallen Ancestor by the name of Penumbra, who has lost his Ancestral privileges and is now named Dark. Apparently being stabbed in the heart with the Power of Strength, Courage, and Wisdom isn't going to keep the damned creature dead.” The Keeper sighed.

“I highly doubt this 'Dark' is that same creature as Penumbra.” Song commented as he was looking at the interior of the castle.

The Keeper raised an eyebrow. "And how do you suppose that?"

Song shrugged a bit before saying, "I mean, look at it-you have this all-powerful Ancestor who nearly destroyed the world. It took all of the Ancestors and Celestial Beings' powers to hold him down just so that he can get stabbed in the heart. If that so-called 'Dark' is Penumbra, I'm pretty sure this war would've been over as soon as it started." The Keeper had never thought of it. Before she could say anything, Song asked, "Where are we going again?"

That distracted The Keeper more than it needed to. “To the Court Room. There’s an emergency Court meeting for the Court Infantries and Captains.” She explained. "We usually have one every three months, unless we're at a crisis. Like now for example." Song nodded, and they trotted in silence.

They soon came to two giant amethyst doors that shown in the sunset. They were wide open, and when Song and The Keeper walked in, Song realized how big the room was. In the middle of the room was a large round table, with seventeen seats at it-all of them were filled, except three of the far end. Unicorns, pegasi, and earth ponies sat in the chairs, and Song noticed that two bat-ponies and a dragon as well. The Keeper caught him eyeing the dragon. "Easy, he's on our side." She whispered. "You'll soon learn a lot about Sulvania."

Song noticed that everypony and dragon (they were talking to one another in their own language) had stopped talking and were looking at Song. The Keeper cleared her throat and said in the I language, "Sit si Song Tune. You liw dif tou ohw hin si noos." She trotted around the table to the backside with Song following her. She pulled back a chair and sat in it, saying, “Esalp kaep Equestrian Common.”

Song was standing next to her-probably looking dumb- and suddenly a voice said, “Yors I ma etal. I dah ot ekat fo a melbor.” Song looked to see a crimson dragon the size of a horse come in wearing black armor. Unlike most dragons he had seen, this one was walking on his hind legs-like Twilight Sparkle's assistant.

The ice blue pegasus from earlier called to him, saying, “Lieutenant Solar! That’s not an excuse to be late!” She was sitting by an empty seat to The Keeper’s right.

The dragon sighed and quickly took his seat next to the empty seat to The Keeper's left. "Why are we speaking Equestrian?" He asked as he sat down.

"The Keeper ordered us to. Now look presentable!" Winter scolded. The dragon put his claws up in a fine-fine gesture, and he was quiet.

The Keeper, who was looking through a book, brought he hoof up(catching Song's eye) pointed at the seat to her right and simply said, "Sit." Song looked at the chair, which unlike the others, was amethyst and decorated with jewels and designs. Not sure of what to do, Song awkwardly pulled the chair back, sat in it, and scoots forward.

There was a chorus of gasps that came from everypony and dragon around the table. They all began murmuring, and a silver unicorn with a white mane stood up and said, "Keeper! That chair is for-!"

"Yes yes," The Keeper said absent-minded. She waved her hoof, as if dismissing an idea or question. "I know exactly where he sits. All in good time, things of knowledge will come to pass." They all settled down. She set the book down and looked at Song. "Tell us your story before we progress."

Song stood up awkwardly, a bit nervous, and began his explanation. He started with his birthday, how he got the journal, and then to the accident. He told of his recovery, the strange translation that happened in the journal, and how he found out of the land northward(he didn't say anything about Voidus, however). After he was done, he sat down in silence. The keeper stood up to begin her explanation.

"You all remember the Graves of Innocence, no?" They all nodded, except Song. "Sixteen years ago, on that stormy night, Queen Nightshade Star and I had been notified of the town's attack by the Dark King's minions. We rushed over to the town as quickly as we could, know not what-but who- was in that town. As you know, all of the villagers were dead.

"What you were not told, is that out of 2,345 inhabitants, one grave were unaccounted for. When the Queen and I arrived at the town, and after searching for a long time, we found one small, helpless colt-lying between two dead bodies.” There were more gasps around the table. “That is correct,” The Keeper nodded, raising her hoof. They were all quieted, and The Keeper continued.

“Yes, the Prophecy of Newlight explains that the colt would be found lying in his Ancestor’s Blood. Due to the sudden arrival of the Dark King, Queen Nightshade and an unnamed soldier went to the southern sea to take the colt to a safe haven-but Queen Nightshade mysteriously died and the soldier was never seen or heard from.” She got up and began walking around the table.

“The colt, as I well remembered, had fur like the sea, his eyes filled with Hope, and his mane was like the stormy sky. The Queen was the only one that knew his name. When I asked her, she had told me what it was.” She looked straight at Song Tune, and he recognized those eyes, the moon and the sun. “It is the same as the stallion who is sitting at this table-Song Tune.” Every eye went to Song, and every jaw went slack. Song’s heart raced as The Keeper knelt and exclaimed, “All hail Song Tune, one of Prophecy, the heir of the throne! Nagai ō raibu!”

A chorus of cheers went up, all sounding the same, and all echoing with promise:

“Nagai ō raibu!

Nagai ō raibu!

Nagai ō raibu!”

***

“Sister,” Luna’s calm voice brought Celestia to the present.

“Yes?” Celestia asked, a bit distracted.

“Art thou thinking of him?” Luna asked.

“I don’t know who you’re talking about, Luna,” Celestia responded, not wanting to give away who she was thinking about.

Luna gave Celestia a are-you-kidding-me? look, and said with annoyed tone, “Sister,”

Celestia sighed, and another scroll appeared before her. She read it, and learned more from what Twilight had sent her for the day. “Yes, Luna,” Celestia said, annoyed. “I try not to think about it, but I cannot seem to get my mind off of him. I need to know that he is safe.”

“Why doth thou think of him?” Luna asked, and the thought never really occurred to Celestia. Luna saw the troubled look on her sister’s face, and coughed, saying, “Shall I make reservations for Princess Cadence’s Wedding?”

Celestia nodded, and looked out the balcony window. Luna turned around, sighed lightly, and trotted out of the room. A tear trickled out of her eye as she thought, Song, you better be okay...wherever you are,

***

“Concentrate, Song!” The Keeper shouted at Song again. He snorted in annoyance. It had been a year since Song found out he was royalty. Since then, The Keeper had taught Song every little thing she knew of Sulvania-but Song knew she was hiding something. Within the first four months, Song had learned not only of the gruesome history(they called it Nightmare Blood), but learned of the weapons, the people, the culture, and the magic. Speaking of which, Song had been training in the ways of all sorts of magic-spells(ones he could handle), Dragon Alchemy(the hardest, but rather easy for Song, strangely), Rune Magic, and now, Elemental Magic.

“Concentrate!” The Keeper yelled again, and Song almost lost his balance his balance.

“What kind of training is this?!” Song yelled back. He was suspended on a platform on a stalactite, his hind hooves crossed under him. He was training for the basic six elements: Earth, Water, Sky, Fire, Shadow, and Light. He’d only mastered four of them in a year. All that was left was Sky and Light.

“Song! Concentrate!” The Keeper shouted for a third time, and Song lost his balance. He plummeted to the ground head first, and closed his eyes, readying for impact.

It never came.

He slowly opened his eyes, and realized he was upside-down;floating in air. The Keeper glided down and landed. “Congratulations,” She said in a mocking tone. “You have mastered the Sky element.” Song laughed, enjoying the moment. “But sky levitation only lasts a couple of seconds.” He fell on his head.

“Ow!” He complained as he rubbed his head. He got up and looked at The Keeper. “What’s next?”

“Take a break. Then you study. We still need to uncover a lot of stuff.” She said, stretching her wings. She began to trot to the cave’s entrance.

Song sighed, and looked off to the sunset. You’re thinking of her, aren’t you? The Voice was back.

Well, yeah. I wonder if Celestia’s worried about me… The Keeper stopped in her tracks, and she looked troubled. “What’s wrong?” Song asked, getting to his hooves.

“I just got some information from Captain Reap Horn. He’s captured an intruder, who happens to be requesting your name.”

“An intruder? Requesting me?” Song asked, a bit confused. He thought of anypony, but nothing came.

The Keeper nodded. “Yes,” She paused, as if listening to something, and looked at him. “He says his name is Voidus. Voidus Shadehoof.”

"We Only Have to fear Fear Itself..."

“So let me get this straight: you’re a King?!” Voidus exclaimed. The Cartographer was kind enough to lend Song and Voidus her chambers to converse privately.

“Yup.” Song went to his journal and opened it. “And by the way, who was your ancestor?”

Voidus was a bit confused. “Uhh…Queen Shadowfall. Why?”

Song was flipping through the book, and stopped. “Aha! I got it!” He read for a little bit and said, “Apparently...Shadowfall was Requiem’s little sister.”

“Little sister?!” Voidus exclaimed. He sat down, bewildered. After a while, he said, “So, we’re related?”

“Through complications.” Song replied.

Voidus decided to take a change in the subject. “Y’know, it’s been a year since you’ve been in Equestria...Celestia’s worried about you.” Song was flipping through the journal, but stopped abruptly when he said that.

“She’s...worried about me?”

Voidus nodded. “Yeah. I overheard Celestia talking to Luna some months after the Discord incident, but just before the changeling assault-”

“Discord...incident? Changeling...assault?” Song echoed.

Voidus laughed and slapped his shoulder. “You missed a lot.”

“No kidding. So have you-”

The door opened, and The Keeper poked her head in. “Affiliated with yourselves?”

“Yes.” Both Song and Voidus replied. Before, Voidus couldn’t get a good look on The Keeper. But now, she was hot. He could feel his heart pounding just by looking at her. She’s as pretty as Luna, and as cute as Twilight, He sighed dreamily.

“Good!” She happily trotted in. She looked at Voidus, whose heart stopped. “So, what are you here for?”

“Looking for this guy,” Voidus said, pointing at Song. He looked at him. “Speaking of which...do you know how many times my timberwolf lost your scent? I lost count honestly.” he shook his head.

You’re brother’s amusing,

“Thanks, voice.” Song muttered.

Listening to you talking about family, I think I'm remembering something...my name. It’s Sansutā.

“Sansutā...Sunstar?”

Bingo. How’d you know how to translate that?

“I dunno…” He said thoughtfully.

“Don’t know what, Song?” The Keeper asked.

“I...uhhhhh…” Song had a troubled look on his face. “Well...I need to go talk to Moonstar. Could you...explain everything to Voidus?” He was slowly backing out of the room.

“Of course. Go tell Moonstar whatever you need to say.” She said, and turned to Voidus. Song 180’d and ran out of the room.

He charged down the hallway and stopped before the nearest guard. “Have...you seen...Moonstar…?” He panted.

“The library, sir.”

Song sprinted towards the library. When he got close, he slowed down to a trot, and stopped before the library door. He inhaled, and exhaled, breathing and catching his breath. He walked in the library, and looked for Moonstar. He found her in the large back corner, reading a book. He never saw her with glasses on, but the dragon was sitting in a large chair, reading a big book. She’s gotten bigger. Might as well be the size of Twilight’s treehouse!

Moonstar noticed Song, then went back to reading. “So,” She asked as she flipped the page. “How’s our little intruder doing?”

Song rubbed his head. “Uh, yeah! Turns out the intruder was my friend from Equestria. And his ancestor was Shadowfall. Requiem’s little sister.”

“Really?” Moonstar asked, obviously showing little interest. “I remember Requiem talking about a little sibling he had in Equestria…” She looked at him. “But I’m gonna guess that’s not what you wanted to talk about?”

Song shook his head. He sat down at the small table in front of her and asked abruptly, “Do you know who Sunstar is?”

Moonstar froze. Bingo. She looked at Song, put a mark in her book, and set it aside. She laced her claws together, and stared at Song in silence. She finally asked, “Why do you ask, and how do you know of that name?”

Suddenly, a gold light came from Song’s chest, and an orb of light jumped from Song’s chest onto the table; it took the form of a dragon. “Because I told him,” The spirit said.

Moonstar stared at the figure, shocked. “S...sister?” Was all she could manage. A tear formed in her eye.

“Memories. They’re coming back. Up until…”

“Until...?!” Moonstar urged her.

“Until I arrived at the other castle...I don’t remember anything after that…”

“Does this mean you’re...dead…?” Moonstar asked slowly.

The dragon spirit shook her head. “I can feel not only Song’s heartbeat, but mine as well. I think I’m still alive, but I can’t feel my body.”

“So, you’re hidden somewhere in Sulvania?” Song asked.

“Hopefully.”

Song began to think, then Moonstar snapped her claws. “I’ve got it! I remember why you went back!” Song and Sunstar looked at her. Moonstar pointed at Sunstar and said, “You said you went back to the castle because you said you thought of a way to defeat Dark!”

“Which means…” Sunstar began putting the pieces together.

“You’re somewhere in the Archives! Of course!” Moonstar was suddenly happy.

“The Archives?” Song asked, confused.

“All information from previous Sulvania to Dracgoni are held there. Sunstar is somehow alive and hidden down there.” Moonstar quickly explained.

“Right. But from what I hear, Dark now occupies that castle. Do you think he’s found the entrance?”

Moonstar shook her head. “I doubt highly. He's been digging everywhere else. Plus, if he did, we’d be long gone.”

“Agreed. Look, let’s worry on strengthening Song, and then we’ll worry about me. We need to be ready by the Day of Creation. No later.” Sunstar said

“Why?”

Sunstar looked at Song. “Because that’s when the Echo’s Gates are weak. Perfect opportunity for Dark to open them.” She walked along the table, pacing.

“Well, first things first for me: we need to get not only Song strengthened, but you as well, Sunstar.” Moonstar got up and walked along the rows of books. “And if we are to do that…” She pulled out a green book and threw it on the table. “We need to prepare Song for the Trials.”

“The Trials…?” Song echoed.

Moonstar opened the book. “The Trails of Courage, Wisdom, and Power. You need to complete those in order to establish Sunstar as a Sol.”

“But...what are these Trials?” Song complained.

Moonstar read through the books. “I’ll tell you what I can. These Trials aren’t a physical trial, but a mental and spiritual trial. You have to not only know the Sol, but know yourself. That’s all I can tell you. But,” She pushed the book towards him. “You can start by studying and preparing for this.” She smiled and walked away.

Song looked at the book, and slowly slid it towards him. “Lovely,” he huffed as he propped his head on one hoof and began reading. “More studying. Terrific.”

Sunstar purred with amusement.

***

A year passed, and The Keeper waited at the main entrance. “Do you think he made it?” The Keeper asked Voidus.

“Of course. Song’s will is strong. There’s no way a trial such as what you said will make him falter. He has a strong heart.” He quieted as the doors to the castle’s entrance opened silently. Voidus and The Keeper watched as the stallion approached. He wore a crimson cape, and it was definately Song “You can hardly tell it’s him,” Voidus whispered.

Song had changed completely. In stead of his usual short grey and white mane and tail, his mane and tail had more white than gray-it was long as well. His blue fur seemed more...fluffy than normal, and Song looked up at them. His gold eyes had a different look in them: a look of the flaming sun. He stopped before them, and the soldiers looked surprised.

“How do you feel?” The Keeper asked. She kneaded the ground and said, “I-I should have told you that it was difficult to send a pony alone up there, especially at this time. The changeling patrols have gotten more frequent.”

Song looked at them for a long time. He then smirked and said, “I feel...powerful. More alive.”

The Keeper sighed with relief. “Excellent. That means you’re Sol is working just fine. Come on, you’re probably hungry.” She smirked as Song trotted after them.

In the dining room, Moonstar was awaiting for Song, who was confused. “Queen Moonstar, why are you sitting in here? How did you know I was going to be back?”

The Queen smiled and said, “First of all, just call me Moonstar. Second, I could smell you from a mile away, and not in a bad way.” She winked at him and said, “and third, I know that the fastest way to a male's heart is through his stomach.” Song, still confused, sat down next to Moonstar, but The Keeper looked at Moonstar.

Is she flirting with Song? What’s gotten into Moonstar? The Keeper shook her head and sat down. It's around that time of year... They all waited until the food was brought out, and The Keeper ah-hemmed to Song and Voidus. “Before every meal, we give our thanks to the ones who provided it, and to the Ancestors.” She reminded them. All of them silently bowed their heads, thanking all of the ones who created and prepared the food. Then, they ate.

An hour later, General Winter ran in wildly. She was panting, and The Cartographer asked, “General Winter?! What’s wrong?!”

She took several breaths and blurted out, “There’sachangelingarmyheadingtowardsthemountainandCaptainCycloneStormistryingto fendthemoffbutthat’snotallbecauseIsawDarkwiththearmyaswell!” She blurted out and then inhaled.

“What?!” The Keeper exclaimed.

Winter inhaled and said, “Dark is coming! And another army has seen in the north!”

Everyone in the dining room(except Song and Moonstar) automatically got up and looked at The Keeper. She said, “We need to get the army ready. Infantries one, three, four and five, aid infantry two at the mountains! six through eleven, to the north! Twelfth, protect the castle! Now!” They all saluted-their left hoof or claw going over their right shoulder-and hurried out of the room.

The Keeper looked at Moonstar and said, “Moonstar, please take care of Song. I don’t want anything bad to happen to him!” With that, she and Voidus galloped out of the room. Moonstar looked at Song, and so did Life.

“What?” Song asked, looking at both of them.

Moonstar looked at Life and commanded, “Get Song a snug outfit of armor. I don’t want him naked.” Life nodded, and motioned for Song to follow. “It’s gonna be a long night, Song.”

Something nudged Song’s side, and he jolted awake. Life was poking his side, and Song rubbed his eyes. “I-I’m sorry! I fell asleep…”

Life smiled. “Don’t sweat it, friend. I figured from the trials, plus the hard training, you’d still be tired.” She helped him up. She looked around the big room. They decided to position out in the throne room, since there was a balcony overlooking some of the city.

“So how come they are attacking now? Didn’t The Keeper say-”

“That there was a magical barrier at the mountain? Correct. Sunstar sacrificed herself and created a magical barrier. Or so the story has said.” Life responded. Song nodded, understanding. He shifted a bit, uneasy of the silence. “What’s the matter, Song?” Life asked.

“I-I don’t like the silence. It seems as if something’s lurking…” He kept glancing around.

Life laughed and playfully hit him on the shoulder. “C’mon, Song! There’s no need to worry! They’re fighting waaay out of our way.” Just then, an explosion erupted from one of the walls, sending Life and Song flying-Song hit a column with his head, and he blacked out.

Life tried to get up and use her magic, but for an odd reason, she couldn’t use it. Something tackled her, and when she realized it was a changeling, her magic somehow gripped her. Vines spouted out of the floor and it wrapped the changeling up. She threw the changeling to the side, and guards dressed in black and crimson armor rushed in to attack Life.

She could sense the magic of all of them. Combined, they were more powerful than her. Unless… Forgive me, Moonstar. Looks like I’ll have to wreck something. Again. She hadn’t used him in a while. The soldiers aimed their weapons at Life and closed in, ready to skewer her.

She sighed and closed her eyes. She felt power surge through her veins as she tapped into the power of another. Her wing spread out, and the guards immediately backed up. Grow, Exuberance! Her mind screamed, and she felt a beast stir deep within her bosom, and she raised off of the floor without beating her wings. Her eyes completely went a bright green, and she said two words; “Tsuru, Gekido!”

Immediately, vines sprouted out of the floor and started destroying the forces around her. She groaned in pain, forgetting how hard it was to control Exuberance. A tornado of vines went everywear. She could hear the screams and yells of soldiers around her, but she concentrated on being wake, and protecting Song. Damnit Moonstar! Where in the name of Faro are you?!

When she couldn’t stand it, her power started to wane, and she slowly started to go down. As soon as her hooves touched the floor, she fell over and blacked out for a few seconds. When she came back, she could hear a sound scraping along the tile. Claws. Life weakly looked up to see a large creature covered in a blanket of darkness. There was no light in the room, and she was cold. The creature noted her awakening, and turned to face her.

Life couldn’t make out any features, except the teeth; very sharp, as if the could chop her in half. She stared at the creature, and it spoke in a deep voice; “My my, what a bloody mess you have made. You killed every one of my soldiers-well, except for my two guards. And yet, you are a Doctor.”

Life retorted weakly, “A Doctor chooses which lives will live, and which won’t when their patients are in their care.”

“Hardly one to be back talking, aren’t you? You’re in a weakened state.” He looked over at Song. “Although, you’re good stallion friend will be quite useful.” He smiled, and ordered his guards, “Guards, take that young stallion and bring him with us.” The two guards nodded and began to advance on Song.

Life got to her hooves. She still had strength, and she will use it to protect the future King. The dark creature watched, probably amused, as Life held out her hoof. Vines sprouted out of the floor, grabbed a weapon, and threw it at Life. She grabbed whatever it was-surprisingly a spear- and threw it at the two stallions. It wizzed at them with incredible speed, and they didn’t have time to react before it impaled them both and stuck them to a wall.

The creature made a face. “That’s my last two soldiers I brought with me.” He glared at her, and another spear was thrown to her. But before she could do anything, the creature had her against the wall, clutching her throat with his claws. “Normally, I’d snap the victim’s neck, but I have something in mind for you.”

The darkness that covered his body began to recede from his teeth, all the way to his neck. What Life was looking at was a full grown dragon, and she tried not to stare into his eyes. She gasped for breath and the creature laughed, gripping her neck to where he could look into her eyes. “Such a pure, young girl. Sadly, your mind won’t be stable when they get back. Have a nice time with your nightmares!” he howled with laughter, then cut short. She stared into her eyes with an insane look in his eyes as he said, “Remember the day you lost your sanity, my dear. For I. Am. Fear.” And with that, Life stopped straining and crumpled to the floor when Fear released her.

Fear looked around and saw the throne room in shreds. There was a big hole in the side of the wall where he made his entrance, but there were thousands of other holes littering the floors, walls, and ceilings. So much destruction...and for a Captain in the lowest Infantry! He calmly walked over to Song, picked him up, and flew out of the hole in the wall.

***

“Hey!” A bang on the bars of Song’s cell woke him up with a start. Song looked at the soldier who was unlocking his cage. “Get up. Dark would like to speak with you. Now.” Song obediently went to the guard, who shackled him and led him through the castle. Whoever this “Dark” was, he managed to get to the root of Song’s number one fear: Lightning.

He never knew why or how his Phobia started. It was...just there. He reflected when he talked to Moonstar about it, half a year ago. Nopony had come to rescue him. He’d been kept imprisoned for three months, and not a single assault was made. He met this Dark many times, and was relieved when they gave him his journal-and a bit suspicious. And he was right.

Dark was looking for an ancient artifact named Dragonstar.

Song wasn’t given much info on it-save it that it was a portal to the Echo, a realm of shadows. And apparently his ancestor’s knew that there was a way to activate the Dragonstar. He felt sorry for Life. He’d been weak and got himself knocked out, leaving her to be injured by Dark.

He came back to reality as two heavy doors opened. Instantly a flash of lightning and a roll of thunder erupted from inside the throne room, and Song’s fur stood on end. “How are you, Song?” A booming voice like the rolling thunder itself echoed around the room.

Song didn’t respond; he was frozen in fear.

“What have you learned of the Dragonstar?” The voice boomed. When Song could see, he saw the creature sitting on the throne-all he saw were golden orange eyes and a big black shadow.

“N-Nothing!” He stammered. “I-I’m still figuring out the riddles that Solar Note left behind!” He was shaking.

The creature roared, and exclaimed, “I need that done in three days! Three days, or else I will have to wait for another Lunar Eclipse!” The creature slammed its fist into the arm of the throne, causing Song to jump slightly. “I give you ‘till the sunrise tomorrow to figure it out. Take him back to his cell!” The guard gruffed at Song and shoved him back out of the throne room.

Song was thrown into his cell, and the guard laughed slightly before leaving. For the hundredth time, Song sat on his bed and picked up his journal. Well, it would be nice if they fed me. Song sighed and began looking through the book, trying to find the information.

Into the night, Song made small notes in his journal, but no progress was made. Frustrated, threw the book against the wall and yelled, “Soporo!” He didn’t know why he said “Lullaby” in Sulvanian, but now Song was too frustrated to care. A slight ringing noise came from his head, and he looked over at the book.

It was glowing gold. With a newfound interest, he slowly picked up the book, and opened it. The letters on the page lifted up, and re-formed to show Song what really was in there;

The Location of the Archives.

***

“Keep moving, weakling.” Dark barked. A massive army trudged behind them as they trekked across the land. The cloudy eternal sky loomed over them, and not a single ray of light poked through the clouds. According to what he heard, Dark used magic to keep the land in darkness. Sighing, Song pulled the journal out of his robe pocket and looked at the map. It was impossible to calculate what he wrote-only he knew the secret of the Dragonstar. They trudged on in silence after ha made a few changes. Eventually they reached and stopped before a large structure. It was a statue of a white dragon with red spikes, and at the base there was a silver plaque which read;

“Aequalis est animal,

Quod illa monuerit.

Qui ignorant, sed quaerentibus regnum,

Parat sibi conscivit,

-Ancestor Albion”

“What does it say?” Dark growled.

Song coughed and lied to him. “It says those who seek out the truth must know the truth.”

An irritated snort escaped the shadowy creature’s snout. “Just solve it, idiot.”

Song closed his eyes and shuddered. He concentrated and spoke in ancient tongue: “Ostende scientia Elder.”

Nothing happened.

Dark growled. “You lie! You deceived me into stalling so you could think of a way out! I have no further use of you, traitor!” He raised his claw to strike Song. Only for it to get pierced by an arrow. Dark yelled in agony, and gripped his claw. He looked in direction from which the arrow came.

Yards away, a black alicorn with a red and silver mane stood.

“This land just got a new King, so don’t be thinking you can kill him so easily.” The Cartographer snorted. The thick fog that laid in the air across the land slowly cleared, revealing a massive army a bit smaller than the one Dark brought.

“Stand down, little mare.” Suddenly four large shadowy creatures the size of buildings stepped over Song and Dark to block the Cartographer’s path. “Let your stallion friend do his work.” Dark shoved Song over to the statue. “Get to it!”

Song limped over to the statute, and opened his book. He looked in front of him across the open space at the Cartographer. She slowly shook her head, wishing that Song wouldn’t do it. Then the weirdest thing happened; Song winked. Then, in quick motion, he clapped his hooves together and thrust them upon the ground by the statue's base. There was a large rumbling sound deep within the earth, and it shook the earth with much trepidation. As the towery figures wobbled, four different colored lights-red, blue, white, and green-each found their own mark on each of the figures and destroyed them in one blow. The entire army then yelled and charged straight towards the dark army.

"What is the meaning of this?!" Dark yelled as Song got to his hooves. He turned around to face dark. "You have betrayed me!" He roared.

Song snorted and said, "I was never sworn to your loyalty to begin with."

In response, Dark growled and lunged at Song, his sword ready to split the stallion in two. Song ducked, and then things got even more weird: the statue spread its wings and the staff it had swung out and caught Dark i the chest, sending him flying. It then slammed the staff into the ground and in a hollow Ethereal voice it spoke, saying two sentences:

"Commencing the Dragonstar Procedures. Resontia Portal beginning underway."

Song turned his attention to Dark as the two armies clashed. Dark roared, "Leave the whelp for me!" And got back to his claws. Song braced himself for Dark to charge, and he did: all four claws, full power ahead. Song did a backflip just as Dark slammed into the ground. Song grabbed a scimitar from a fallen pony, just as Dark equipped his own-a halberd.

Dark swung down, and Song parried(surprisingly) the dragon's heavy blade. As they locked their blades, Dark hissed, "I will end you!" Song heard his breath inhale, and he braced himself for what happened next-Dark opened his mouth all the way, and spewing hot fire like lave erupted from his mouth, coating Song in it. Dark smiled triumphantly, until he saw Song still very much alive. "What?! Impossible!"

Song pushed Dark back and roundhouse kicked him in the jaw. Dark went flying, and Song panted. "Take...a look around..." He gasped. He knew what the Dragonstar did, but he didn't know why he was getting weaker. There were several stone columns surrounding the statue, and Song said. "This Dragonstar....has the ability to take away certain magic...it is a defense mechanism against Black Magic...such as yourself. And besides...training in the Art of the Dragonskin wasn't hard at all. It's just pure strength now."

The dragon watched as the columns had a faint blue glow, and laughed. "Do you think I need to rely on magic to beat you?! I can do it with just my strength! After all, you are just a pony!" He cackled with laughter.

Song gritted his teeth as he ran forward on his hind hooves with the scimitar. That's so racist... was all Song could think of, then he yelled, "I'm taking you down!"

Dark began to grow in size, and when he was the size of a warehouse, he hefted the massive halberd. "Bring it!" He grinned. Just before Song reached him, Dark swung sideways at Song. However, Song anticipated his move, and jumped up; he grabbed onto the staff part of the halberd and began to run up the staff towards Dark. Before Dark even knew what was happening, Song had lunged at him for a strike. Dark saw Song out out of the corner of his eye, and managed to move his head away from the slice of Song's scimitar-but not before Song ripped it straight across Dark's eye.

Dark roared in pain as Song flew past and rolled across the ground. Song quickly got to his hooves and began to charge at him again. His scimitar began glowing gold, and strangely gold wispy smoke flowed out of Song's angered eyes. Dark recovered, and began to charge Song as well. Song jumped up, but Dark had anticipated his move as well. As Song jumped up, Dark slammed him aside with the butt of his halberd.

Meanwhile, the literal battle between Good and Evil raged around the Dragonstar. The Keeper jumped back away from a slash, and soon found that she and Voidus were fighting back to back. All around them explosions of both bright and dark colors erupted around them, like fireworks. "It's a wonder that the world doesn't see this!" Voidus joked as he stabbed a soldier.

The Keeper snorted and yelled back, "They'll just think it's aurora arboreal!" She flapped her large wings at a soldier, and a gust of wind shot out. Eventually, Voidus had moved away from The Keeper, and the soldiers were ganging up on her. As she stabbed one soldier, another tackled her and pinned her to the ground. A third soldier jumped at The Keeper, his sword ready, and swung in for the finishing blow. Well, he tried.

Both soldiers were thrown off by a shield enshrouded in green magic. A hissing noise was made, and a black shadow loomed over The Keeper. "Get up, Keeper!" The raspy voice said. "I"m not gonna get invited to crash a party just to see the invitee die!"

A bit confused, The Keeper rolled over onto her hooves and picked up her blade. When she saw the sleek black body, the green, eyes, the green mane, and the holed hooves, her heart lifted up. "Chrysalis!" The Keeper cried with glee. "Does that mean-?"

Suddenly, and uproar erupted from all over as many of the dark soldiers turned into changelings and began attacking the dark soldiers. "That we're here?" Chrysalis replied. "I can't miss the opportunity for payback!" She growled. "Let's go!" She swatted a soldier out of the way and slammed her scepter into a shadow dragon. "Who exactly are we protecting?" She asked.

"Song Tune! He'll solve your kingdom's problems if we help him!" She sliced at another soldier.

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. "And if he doesn't?" That caught The Keeper off guard. Chrysalis jumped over The Keeper and stabbed a changeling. "Well?" She hissed.

"You can cut off my horn."

"Deal."

Suddenly a roar erupted louder than the rest, and they saw Dark standing over Song. "No!" The Keeper gasped. "Please, not again!"

Dark looked down at Song. Song was gripping his left eye, which was bleeding profusely, "You lose, King. Now, I will finish what my Mistress asked of me." He lifted the halberd, and grinned evilly as he poised to strike down.

Song coughed and said, "There's something else quite interesting about the Dragonstar," He rasped. He smiled and said, "Attack the spell caster, and the statue will protect."

Suddenly, the statue slammed into Dark and threw him to the ground. Dark roared and rolled out of the way as the statue slammed the spear into the ground where Dark was. Meanwhile, Song rushed to where the statue's pedestal was, and began to pry at the metal covering on the top of the base. Every now and then a soldier would try to rush him, and then he'd have to take care of it-until The Keeper, Chrysalis, and Voidus showed up.

"Get to it!" The Keeper yelled. "We've got your back!" Song nodded and began to work at the metal again. Back at the statue, it was falling to pieces. Not being used in over centuries did take a toll on the statue. One of its wings was broken off, the horn was gone, and its hooves were cracking. But it still relentlessly hacked away at Dark. In frustration, Dark roared and spewed white hot fire at the statue-finally melting the stone away and turning the statue to nothing.

Just as Song pried away at the metal and saw what laid underneath, something quite large smacked him and sent him flying. Song skidded and rolled across the ground until he came to a stop. He shakily got to his hooves, his strength waning rapidly, and saw that the thing that hit him was Dark's tail. Dark had also thrown the three ponies protecting Song away as well. He laughed triumphantly and reached inside the base. What he pulled out was....a gold stone that had swirling light inside of it-except the light was rather dim.

"Finally!" He roared with excitement. "The Power of the Royal Bloodline is mine!" He cackled with laughter. "My mistress will; be most pleased, and the world will bend to her will!" He held it to the sky, and a swirling vortex began to form from the clouds. His laughter echoed with the rumble of the sky, and lightning struck down.

Then everything really went to Tarturus.

The swirling vortex reached all the way down to the Dragonstar, but stopped above it. The vortex then moved around the Dragonstar, as if there was an invisible wall. It then began swirling in a clock-wise formation, like a real tornado. Dark was ultimately confused, and shouted, "What's happening?! This wasn't supposed to happen!"

The only two inside the field were Song and Dark.

"I'm afraid I should've told you sooner," Song coughed as he stood up. "You see," He shouted over the roaring wind. "For many years, you have yearned for the 'power' given to us by Mother Night, which says that it will give you real power. I hat to break it to you....but there is no such power."

Dark looked at him. "What?!" He roared. He attempted to jump at Song, but white streaks of light shot from the statue base and grabbed Dark-making him unable to move and making him drop the sphere.

"Another matter," Song spoke over the roar of the wind. "The sphere is made entirely of an element known as Sunstone. In the journal, I read that the said stone was put into the base to power the magic. But, if touched by dark magic, two things will happen: the stone will be polluted, and there will be a defense system to make sure the spell caster dies. Sadly, since it has not been used in centuries, it needs a push." He moved his hooves, and the light wrapped around dark moved as well. Song stood the dragon straight up, and looked at him seriously.

"I remember now, on that dark night, when you destroyed my family. Normally I would kill you myself, but I believe there needs to be righteous judgement before an execution." His eyes began to glow brighter and brighter, and at last he said, "Let this dragon be judged, and let him die with justice served." A gold ethereal creature rose from the base of the Dragonstar. It was wearing tattered robes and boned wings. In one claw it held a wicked halberd-the front part being a scythe blade and the back being a pick-and pointed a claw straight at Dark. It then spoke two words in a raspy dark voice.

"Ludicium Aequalitas!"

Suddenly white streaks of light began erupting from within Dark. He roared, "No! My mistress shall save me! She will! She promised me!" He clawed at the ground as the light began dragging him towards the creature. "I WILL NOT FAIL!" He roared, until the creature put the blade against his throat. Dark glared at Song, as if he poured every hate into a curse, and shouted, "I CURSE Y-"

The creature pulled the blade back, but instead of decapitating Dark's head, it ripped all of Dark's soul out. The screams of agony was deafining to Song, and he covered his ears as waves of magic hit his mind. He sunk to the floor and screamed in pain as images of every singe creature that died by the order of Dark entered his mind. Song laid on the floor, twitching and shivering, and the blackness of his mind dragged him into subconsciousness.

***

"Song!" A slap woke him straight up. He slowly opened his eyes and realized that there were crowds of ponies standing around him. The Keeper was holding his head in her hooves, Voidus was next to her, Chrysalis was in front of Song, and Winter was to his left. "Thank Census you're alive!" She hugged Song rather tight, until he was trying to gasp for breath.

"Keeper! Keeper!" His muffle voice resonated from under her chest. She pulled away, and he gasped for air. He felt pain and a short cry escaped his lips.

"What's wrong?" The Keeper asked.

"I-I think I broke some of my ribs..."

Chrysalis snorted as she trotted forward. "Wouldn't doubt it. After the thing dispelled, you destroyed the Dragonstar, and the three black creatures that rose from the Dragonstar's base. Then, you passed out."

Song didn't remember any of that, but he kept it to himself.

The Keeper gasped and said, "Your eye! It's not as bad as I thought it was!" She was right; his eye had a scar across it, but it was not damaged.

He looked up at the cloudy sky, and watched as the clouds began to part. The sun's beautiful rays shone down and cast its holy light across the land as if saying, "I can shine upon this earth again!" Song closed his eyes and sighed warmly.

"When the Blackness of Evil is washed away, the sun and the earth will together again play." The Keeper slowly said the finishing line of the prophecy. She looked down at Song with tears in her eyes. "You did it, Song." She hugged him again. "You are the true King." She whispered.

Winter put a hoof on her heart, taken back by the beautiful day. "I thought I'd never see the glorious day again," She breathed. A chorus of murmurs in agreement echoed throughout the crowds. Suddenly, a white pegasus mare with a gold mane and purple eyes stepped forward; Song remembered her, he name was Alineth, and the two became friends when he began his training a couple of years ago. "Let's hear it for Song Tune!" She shouted. An uproar of cheers erupted around the crowd, and they all began chanting the same word:

"Vic-tor-iae! Vic-tor-iae! Vic-tor-iae! Vic-tor-iae! Vic-tor-iae! Vic-tor-iae!" It was a beautiful sound, and Song watched with happiness as the soldiers hugged and cheered and chanted in harmony.

"What will we do now, my King?" Alineth asked him. She was a pretty mare-save for the fact that Song felt something different about her-but in times like this she was always serious. She was always at his side, beckoning to his call, and she enjoyed talking to him. She was also the one that mostly trained him in hoof-to-hoof combat, but other than that, she was a nice mare.

Song looked up at the sky. "We rebuild this Kingdom of Equality." He raised his hoof to the sky, and said, "We rebuild Sulvania!" It was a name he had fund in his Ancestor's book. The Elder Dragons called this place Sulvania when they made their Kingdom in the name of "Harmony". He looked at her and smiled. "And we tell the world who we are!" That made the crowd roar even more. They began cheering and dancing and hugging. Some of them even kissed each other.

Song nudged Voidus' hoof, receiving a look from him. "Hey...do you think that the world can hear the sound of peace?"

Voidus looked up at the sky and nodded. Everyone put their hoof or claw up into the air, as if they were reaching the heavens. "I'm sure the Ancestors and Celestials can hear our victorious cries." But a dark deep voice came from within Song, and only he heard it. It chilled his bone, and it's voice was as dark as Tarturus itself. He could imagine the being glaring at him, as if planning to do something that no pony would be able to stop;

"Victories are the end of your joy."

Light of the Land

The clean-up was harder than the battle itself. Bodies littered the landscape, and many holes from magic blasts made it harder to pile the bodies up onto the wagons and get them moving. As for the enemy, they dragged all of the bodies to one of the charred pits and burned them. “No glory for the enemy,” Reap Horn had said. While they all cleaned up, Iricah had used her wing to get Song to the nearest wagon back. The Keeper and Winter decided to tag along, just to watch him and take care of important business-Chrysalis came along to see the castle. The medic in the wagon patched up Song’s chest, wrapping white gauze around his chest to keep the bones from breaking, and the ointment that was applied to him was to help heal his bones.

"Now that the war is finally over and we have a righteous ruler among us," Keeper began, looking at Song. "What shall we do first? Everyone in the wagon looked at him for a response.

He honestly had no idea how to lead-much less lead a kingdom that was very diverse. Suddenly, Sunstar came back into his head. Mind if I help? She asked.

No problem, Song replied.

We need to rebuild the kingdom. I'll start with that, and you can go on from there. Sunstar said.

"Well, we should first inform Queen Twilight of the extraordinary news of our victory." Song began, and thought some more. "Then we sustain order. We tell the kingdom who the new king is, give all of the Infantries a town to patrol, and to revise the Laws and Orders." Song looked at The Keeper, who nodded. "Good. After that, we start rebuilding. We fix damaged buildings, and take down whatever forces are left. After we do that, we destroy the old castle and build a new one." All of them gawked at him.

"But sir!" Winter objected. "That might take forever!" Song looked sideways at Queen Chrysalis. Voidus had told Song about her intrusion on Canterlot castle, almost overthrowing the kingdom.

"My Queen," Song began, getting her attention. "I assume you are here for more than just sight-seeing?" She nodded and he said, "We need your changelings once more. If you help us rebuild my Kingdom, I promise you there are great things that will be in store for you from your friend, Sulvania."

"Thank you, my King." Chrysalis said, her raspy voice having a hint of thankfulness in it. "I will bring all of my changelings to make the progress quicken. What will you give in return?"

He slowly nodded his head. "Still thinking about that." He said. "It will involve love, though. So that's a plus." She purred with amusement. He turned his attention to The Keeper. "Did you get all of that?" She nodded and tapped her head.

"Sir," The medic spoke, and Song turned his attention to him. "I recommend that you do not do any lifting or physical abilities, besides walking, for a while. It may put strain on your rib cage, and break more than a few ribs." Song nodded, and they rode in silence for the rest of the way.

The next day, after taking care of informing Twilight and doing business across the land, Song now stood on a podium before a large mass of ponies and dragons. Behind him stood the old castle, standing strong as if wanting to scar everone's minds. The keeper helped him practice how to do speeches, but now he decided to improvise. He cleared his throat and began. "Creatures of many races, we are gathered here today to celebrate the victory of yesterday. Many have fallen for over a thousand years of endless bloodshed, and many have survived in fear of the future. We respect those males and females who died over the years, and those who did everything in their power to stop the tyranny of not just the enemy, but in their own kingdom as well." He sighed softly.

"I am aware of what my Ancestors' past sins have done to this land, but that will change. I am here to finish what Requiem has started: to turn Chaos, into Harmony!" The entire crowd erupted into a deafening roar of cheers. When it died down, he continued. "Today is a new chapter in the story for this land! Today, we will begin to show the world who we are!" He threw his hoof to gesture the castle behind him. "And we will start by rebuilding Sulvania! We must take down this landmark of pain!" Every creature roared with excitement, and the soldiers began to blast away at the castle. Luckily, the crowd of creatures were really far back.

For the next hour and a half, the sounds of destruction echoed all across the land. Finally, the last piece of the castle was completely destroyed into nothing. Every creature cheered and celebrated and was merry. All that stood now was the throne in which the Dark Lord sat, and Song wanted to destroy it himself, but The Keeper wouldn't let him. Instead, she let Star Blaze destroy it-Dark was the one that also destroyed Star's entire town and murdered her whole family. She destroyed the throne with her fire breath, melting it to nothing.

And now, reconstruction began.

***

As the year turned into winter, everypony in the castle of Dragonvale noticed two things: The power of Song Tune, and how much fluffier his fur got. A lot of the mares found him adorable, but he was too much focused on running the new kingdom to care. He probably didn't have time to spend with mares.

Except Iricah.

There was something special about the mare, and Song knew it. She was a bit shy, but once he got to know her, she was a friendly mare. From what he had gathered, she had defaulted to their side when she found out the true ambition of Abhorren-who was the actual name of the dragon. Apparently he was a "Dark Lord" of the true Dark-which Twilight had said the name was Penumbra. Back to the point, Iricah was a different mare altogether.

During the winter, The Keeper had Song's royal attire ready, and even Voidus thought it would swipe mares off of their hooves. There was a white robe that would only cover the front half of his body. There was a royal purple cape that would cover all of his back and hang down his sides, and finally attached to the cape was a black fur collar. Iricah had helped him get the attire on, and also helped The Keeper get the attire together. She had been more than help.

Then, a miracle happened. There is a special holiday similar to that of Equestria's Hearth's Warming-except it was called Caminus Vesper. On that day, the building of the castle was complete; like a present to the entire Kingdom. Every creature cheered and celebrated the entire night, and a great feast was held. The party was held for the next day as well, and gifts were given and received as every creature had never been happier in their lives. Two days after, all of the guard, soldiers, and builders began moving things into the castle and preparing it for Song Tune and his court.

As winter progressed, Song and the Keeper worked to get together the Royal Advisory: a place where he elected nobles to help him rule the large kingdom. After that, then came the peace treaty between the Changeling Kingdom and Sulvania. Song was informed about some kingdoms nearby that were in a large struggle, and went and met with the leaders. In one kingdom, it reminded Voidus of the Crystal Kingdom, full of Crystal ponies and dragons, the other was filled all sorts of rare creatures: Celestial Dragons, Rurin, a few Yuldion, Chimeras, and other various creatures that intrigued Song. Under his power, the two kingdoms joined the Kingdom of Sulvania, and the Province of Sulvania was created; Sulvania, the Changeling Empire, Dragonvale, Opulian(the Jewel Kingdom), and Phantasma(Kingdom of the Estranged).

And all was well with the Kingdom.

***

"S-Sir...?" Song heard a voice as he was going through paperwork. He wore glasses(mainly because he found out his vision was bad when he needed to read) and was reading the information that the leaders of the kingdoms sent him. he looked over the brim of his glasses to see Iricah-without armor, strangely-standing at the doorway. She was leaning uneasily against the door frame, as if needing something bad.

"Yes, Iricah?"

That caught her off guard a bit. He always called her Lieutenant. "I-um...I need to tell you something..." A gurgling sound rumbled in her stomach. She slowly closed the door and approached him. "T-there's something you should probably know..."

Song set the papers down and took off his glasses. He raised an eyebrow, and said, "Continue."

She finally blurted out, "I'm a vampony."

There was a moment of silence, and he tilted his head in confusion. "Vampony? Like a bat pony?"

Iricah sighed. Of course, being from Equestria, he would never know what a vampony was. "No...vamponies are normal ponies who are...different..." She sat in the chair in front of his desk. "They are immortal, and from time to time they are in need of..." She licked her lips. "...blood."

"And, you're asking me if I can help you?"

She slowly nodded, and two fangs slid out of her mouth down to her chin. "I-I...I need some blood, if you don't mind..." She fidgeted, not knowing how he'd react.

Song unclipped his cloak and said, "Very well, if you need to feed, then you must do it." He moved the colaok away from his shoulder, and Iricah awkwardly got up and walked over behind him.

"S-Sorry if I hurt you. Just...just tap me when you need to, okay sir?"

He nodded and said, "You can stop calling me 'sir'. 'Song ' is just fine." She nodded and licked up the side of his neck, sending shivers down his spine She then rubbed her teeth along a tender part of his neck, making a slight moan escape his lips. She then swiftly bit into his neck, drawing amounts of sweet blood from him. She felt his muscle tense, and a slight cry of pain escaped his lips. She wrapped her hooves around him and bit deeper and drank more blood.

She finally brought her fangs out and they retracted back onto her mouth. She licked her lips and slightly bowed. "T-Thank you...Song..."

"No problem, Iricah. Anything for a friend." He smiled at her, and she blushed slightly.

"S-....Sir?" She asked, and Song,who had resumed to reading, nodded with acknowledgment. She took a deep breath, and suddenly asked, "You love me, don't you?"

There was total dead silence in the room. Song looked at her and set his glasses down again. He inhaled deeply, and after what seemed like an eternity, he nodded and said, "Yes...I have developed feelings for you, Iricah. At first it was a strange feeling, one that I had never known. But as time went on, I realized you were one of the very few ponies I felt.....comfortable." He put his hooves together and leaned forward on them slightly. "I like you, Iricah. You've been the most helpful pony around, besides The Keeper." He then sighed and looked at her.

"Wanna go on a date tonight?"

Iricah couldn't believe what she heard. She suddenly nodded and said, "Of course!" She smiled, and he smiled back.

"Now, I'd head back to your post before somepony or dragon gets suspicious." He smirked, and she began to leave. "Oh, and iricah," She turned around and he held up a letter. "Inform The Keeper that I need her right away. I am ready to send a letter to princess Celestia." Iricah nodded and left the room. Song took his glasses off for a third time, reclined in his chair, and looked out of the window. He thought of the past four years, it seemed to happen all so quickly. He looked at the setting sun and smirked slightly.

I'll see you again, Celestia. Like i promised you.

The Keeper walked in when Song was getting ready for a date. "What are you doing?" She asked. "You look like you're going out."

"I am," He said, tightening his collar around his neck. He went over to the dresser where a few select colognes were. he picked one up and asked, "What cologne should I wear?"

The Keeper stared at him. "You're going on a date."

"Thank you, detective.

Slap!

Song couldn't resist laughing and The Keeper glared at him. "Fine. I'll help you this one time, sir."

"But I thought you are my adviser."

Slap!

Song laughed some more, holding his hooves up. She picked up a vial and sprayed some cologne on him. "Who's the lucky mare?" She asked as she fixed his messy collar. "Have you ever been on a date before?"

"No, I haven't." He said as he slipped into the amethyst horseshoes. "She's a sweet pegasus. Iricah."

The Keeper glanced at him. "Knew it. I thought there was a little something between the two of you." She began to comb his long mane. "Perhaps we should cut some of your mane and trim your coat. Its getting a bit long."

"How about no?" Song smirked. ".........I'll think about it." After she got him ready, he nodded to her. "Thanks, Keeper. I feel a bit awkward, especially for a first date."

She smiled as she tightened the collar one more time. "It'll be fine. Just be who you really are, and she'll like you. Where are you two going?"

"Probably to the theater to see one of the plays." He flipped his mane out of his face. "Do you think she'll like me? I mean, more than just a friend?"

The Keeper smiled. "Song, stop being pessimistic and show a mare who you are." As he thanked her again and began to leave, The Keeper told him to wait. "You think I may have forgotten, but here we are." She brought a box and gave it to him. "Happy Early Birthday, Song."

He looked at the box. It was a decorative chest, much like the one that Celestia kept her royal wear in when she went to sleep or took a shower. The Keeper slid it over to him, and he slowly opened it. Inside laid what Song thought at first was a tiara. It had a golden base, and in the center of the front was a real amethyst. The gold wrapped around the amethyst like it was a stand. Song put it on his head, and The Keeper fixed the positioning for it.

"When Requiem created this Kingdom, he worked with Forge Igniteous the blacksmith to create this crown. He made it like this, mainly because he never knew whether there would be a dominant stallion leader or a dominant mare leader. He believed that whoever his descendant, whether mare or stallion, they have more authority than their spouse." She explained as she brushed his coat a bit. She patted his shoulders and smiled with sanctification. She then nudged him towards the door and said, "Go on, there's a mare out there who you need to fall in love with."

Thirty minutes later, Song was staring at what Iricah wore. She wore a lovely black dress, where there was an opening above the chest, and she had brushed her beautiful black and green mane. She obviously put on a little make-up, but not too much. In reality, she was beautiful. "Did my looks sweep you of your hooves?" She asked and winked playfully as she walked by. She slapped his side with her tail, making him jump a bit in surprise.

"Well, uh....." He looked for the right words. "You look beautifully stunning tonight." Damn. Shouldn't have said that.

Iricah giggled and said, "And you are wonderfully handsome as well~" She stood next to him, side-by-side. "Shall we be off?" She asked, looking at him.

He slowly nodded. "Yeah. I've got us a renovation at a theater dinner."

She walked closely to his side, her wing wrapped around him. "Ooh, nice~" She giggled and winked at him. "You're such a stallion."

Song chuckled nervously as they walked together along Mane Street to the dinner theater. "It's uh....I've never been on a date before..." He blushed and looked away embarrassingly. Iricah laughed and bumped her hip against his.

They finally reached the theater, and paid the stallion at the front the tickets. They went in and took a seat, and a voice from the stage said, "Thirty minutes until the theater production 'Ancestral Tales' starts." There were a few other ponies and even a couple of a dragons.

"Song?" Iricah asked, and he looked at her. "Why are we here so early? Shouldn't we have waited until it was closer to the time?"

Song and Iricah were sitting so close that they were touching. He looked down at her(he was taller) and said, "Well, I wanna get to know you more." He smirked, and she rested her head on his shoulder.

She purred softly and asked, "What do you want to know about me?"

Song grinned and said, "What kind of mare are you?"

"What?"

"What kind of mare are you?" He repeated, asking her.

She was silent for a long time, then finally spoke. "Well, I am a lovely mare, as you know. Very fun in many cases. An excellent fighter, and a beautiful spell-caster." She bit her lip, wondering what he was prying at. He smiled, and this time she asked, "What kind of stallion are you?"

Song came close to her and said, "One that can love a broken heart~" He kissed her cheek, telling that she was sad deep down. She looked up into his golden eyes, and saw something she hadn't seen in a long, long time; kindness, hope, friendliness, generosity, and most of all: love. She saw love in his eyes. He was definitely falling for the mare.

"S-Song...?" Iricah stuttered. "D-Do...you have feelings for me?"

Song answered her with a full on kiss, their snouts clashing together.

The guard kneeling was unsure of what to say to Princess Celestia. "Well?" She asked. "What of the shipments? You asked, and I know want to know." She slightly snorted as she sat on her throne, wishing Twilight would get here quicker so she could talk to somepony.

The guards stood up straight and pulled out a clipboard, saying, "Well...we have the normal shipments from Draclepuff, Chiryo, Starlightia, and the other southern and western kingdoms, but there's something that's been troubling the shipment master: we have this...uh....new Kingdom that popped out of nowhere. By the name of..." He checked his clipboard. "Sulvania."

"Any information?"

"N-No your highness. The captain of the ship just gave me the paper that was released before he left." He looked up at Celestia, who had her hoof outstretched. The guard, knowing what she wanted, gave her the paper.

"You are dismissed, sergeant." She said, and the guard saluted then walked out. Celestia sighed with annoyance and began reading the newspaper. Only then would she realize not only what-but who- was in the paper.

Twilight walked to the golden doors, and the two guards opened it for her. Just as they opened it, a big flash of whiteness zipped by, blowing wind all over them as Celestia literally flew to her room. Twilight, dazed and confused, gave chase after the Princess to her room. When she came to the room, Celestia was throing all sorts of items into bags and whatnot. To Twilight, it seemed as if Celestia was packing for a trip.

"Princess Celestia!" Twilight called as she ducked from being hit by a flying mane brush. "What's going on?!"

Celestia paused long enough to see that Twilight was there, and said, "Oh hello, Twilight. I'm leaving to go somewhere. it's uh....a short notice thing." She went straight back to packing.

"What?!" Twilight felt like panicking. The Princess didn't just leave on short notice! "But Celestia?! What of Luna? She hasn't even returned from the Starlightian Moon Ceremony!"

Celestia paused yet again and said, "Well, you can let her know that I'm heading to greet the new royalty of a new Kingdom. I want to be sure that our kingdom and his can have a well-established link in trade and companionship." She continued packing things she needed.

"Wait, he? Celestia, is this about you needing a stallion?" Twilight asked, suspicion raising in her mind.

Celestia froze, eyes wide. "N-No, of course not!" She said with a nervous laugh. "I simply want to greet the new royalty! Did I say 'he'? I'm sure I said 'they'.

Twilight sighed and said, "Alright, I'll tell Luna. But if she turns into Nightmare Moon over this, I'll ship her to you to deal with."

"Okay!" Celestia said in a happy voice. Twilight began to leave, but stopped when Celestia called. "Twilight? I just have one question to ask:" Twilight turned and saw Celestia holding up two dresses that were decoratively ornate-one looked like it would be fit for a sun goddess to wear, and the other was a pearl white.

"Which one should I wear?"

***

Two day later, Captain Star lightly knocked on Song's study door. He looked up over his glasses and said, "Yes, Captain?"

She walked in and shut the door. "Uhm...The Keeper told me to inform you of....of what I am. She said you were a bit curious..." Song took of his glasses and nodded. Star slowly took off her helmet, and undid her armor, and let it fall to the floor. She took off her goggles and her face mask, and Song studied her. She was an albino mare, and fluffy as he was. Her ears were pointed like a dragon's, and her eyes were a dragon's as well. Her mouth had two fangs-large and thick ones-that reached down past her chin, like a saber-teethed dragon.

Song nodded approvingly and asked, "Is this why you hide behind your armor?" Star blushed with embarrassment and nodded. Song stood up, and began to circle her. "Well, you are a fit mare...what is your race's name?"

"Alterats, sir."

Song nodded some more. "Captain, why is it necessary to hide like that?"

She was caught off guard. Star thought, and then said, "Well, sir, I'm afraid I will be the fear of others, sir. When I was younger, many ponies abused me verbally, and occasionally physically, and I hid from them."

Song stood in front of her. "Do you mind if I share my piece of my mind, Captain?"

"Not at all, sir."

Song thought of how to put it all together. "You say you hide your appearances from other in fear that they might abuse you, or worse, shut you out and fear you. Am I correct?" She nodded. "Now, Let me explain something; use that fear for an advantage. If ponies cannot comprehend on why you look like that, ignore them. Whereas, if you do not cover your appearances in battle, the enemy will fear you, giving you the upper hoof. Fear is a key in winning a battle. If they fear you, you win. Do you understand this Captain."

"Yes sir. Thank you."

He smiled and sat back down. "Not at all, Captain. Now, I would like you to take this list, and inform those on the list that they have a week to prepare for a trip." He handed her to sheet, and sh read the names. When she saw her own, her brow furrowed.

"Sir? Why is my name on this sheet?" Star asked, as she waited at the door.

"We're going to Equestria, Star, and we're going to meet the Princesses."

She saluted, and began to leave, but instead stopped when she heard somepony frantically trying to stop another with words. "Please, your highness! He's studying and is in deep in thought! You mustn't disturb him!" It sounded like The Keeper, and Song slowly got up and walked to the door. "I'm warning you, there'll be now way he allows-" Song opened the door to see a white mare with a beautiful flowing mane staring at him, their snouts almost touching. Song blushed, and stammered one word.

"C-Celest-tia?!"