Mes Petits Miserables (Les Miserables Ponified)

Chapters

Parole
On The Streets
An Act of Kindness
Clash of Values
Masters of Morale
At the Begining of the End
A Revolution Arises
Interlude (One Day More)
Call to Arms
Twilight's Betrayal
Aftershocks
Choices and Prayers
Storming the Barricade
Redemption
Last Stand
A True, True Friend
Epilogue: Twilight's Last Letter
The Rise and Fall of a Republic

Parole

Shortly after her return to Equestria, Princess Luna formed the Equestrian Republic, a government based on equality and freedom. However, Celestia refused to step down from her throne. After years of civil war, Luna was forced to surrender. She was sent back to the moon and her followers were disgraced, arrested, exiled, and even executed. Celestia has ensured her continued rule. For ten years now, she has kept it that way.

Deep within the Canterlot mines, hundreds of ponies worked under the watchful eyes of the royal guards. Earth ponies pulled carts filled to the brim with gemstones. Teams of pegasi struggled to lift elevators up the shaft. A handful of unicorns blasted the walls to reveal more gems. As they worked at a back-breaking pace, a harsh song vibrated through cavern.

Look down, look down
Don't look 'em in the eye
Look down, look down
you're here until you die

[pegasi]
No sky above,
to escape all our woes

Look down, look down
there's a thousand years to go

[unicorns]
We've done no wrong
Celestia hear our prayer

Look down, look down
Celestia doesn't care

[earth ponies]
My folks will come
They always have been true

Look down, look down
They've all forgotten you

[Derpy]
Just a muffin
Is that too much to ask

Look down, look down
You'll always be a slave
Look down, look down

You're standing in your grave

"STOP!" the Warden yelled. Everypony dropped what they were doing to gaze at his overlook near the barracks. "Prisoner 24601 come to the Warden's office immediately."

Prisoner 24601 perked up her ears. A trip to the Warden's office could mean anything. Just as many convicts have been freed as executed through that mysterious door. As quick as her sore body would allow, Prisoner 24601 took off her cart's harness and headed up to the office. She made sure to avoid eye contact with the scores of ponies now staring at her.

When Prisoner 24601 finally reached the office, she took a deep breath and entered. The interior was dark with only a lamp sitting upon a small table in the center of the room. The prisoner walked cautiously up to the table. She could vaguely see the shapes of guards hiding in the shadows.

A door behind the table opened and a purple alicorn stepped out. "Hello Applejack," said Twilight flatly.

"Twilight? What the sam heck are ya'll doing here?" asked the orange mare.

"The short answer is giving you your parole. I wanted to give it to you myself." Twilight levitated a scroll bearing Celestia's seal over to Applejack.

Applejack scanned the letter. "So, this means a'm free to go home right?"

"No. Sweet Apple Acres has been sold to Flim/Flam Fields years ago," Twilight said sternly. Her expression softened slightly, "those papers should get you access to public room and board. I'm sorry but that is all I could do."

"Gosh darnit' Twilight, y'all know that ain't true! If you did everyth'n ya could I wouldn't be here! Why didn't ya speak for me? For that matter, why didn't ya do anyth'n for Apple Bloom?"

"The law specifically states that all spies must be hanged. She shouldn't have betrayed Celestia in the first place."

"She was just a filly Twilight! Surely there could've been an exception."

Twilight maintained an expressionless face, "There are no exceptions to the rules AJ. Surely you must have known that when you housed rebels in your home."

"That was my brother's company and half of 'em were wounded. I couldn't of just left 'em out in the cold."

"What about all those times you supported the Republic in our conversation's? How can you even entertain the idea of overthrowing Celestia?"

Applejack glared at the princess, "Am I bein' paroled or am I on trial again?"

Twilight coughed, "very well then, if you want this over with then I'll just list the conditions of your release. First, you will forevermore be labeled as a Republican and will be treated as such. Second, you will never be allowed within 100 yards of any government building. Third, you may not associate with any other known rebels under any circumstances. Lastly, any further criminal activities can lead to immediate revoking of your parole rights,imprisonment, or execution. Do you understand."

Applejack nodded

"Good, then I believe we are done here." Twilight turned and left.

Applejack was escorted to the mine entrance by the squad of guards from the office. Before leaving through the heavy iron door, Applejack looked down on the prison. The ponies below had gone back to work, endlessly heaving and hoisting and blasting to the rhythm of their work song. With sweat, tears, and blood they continued to dig their own grave.

Author's Note

The lyrics of this story are based off the 2012 Les Miserables soundtrack. Sorry they aren't that creative this time. Look Down doesn't really give much material for ponification. Anyways, feel free to comment and critique. Any insight will be appreciated

On The Streets

Applejack walked out in the sunlight for the first time in a decade. She smiled as the sun's warm embrace enveloped her. The mine entrance overlooked the whole city of Canterlot. The vibrant colors of the Equestria's capital stuck out against the dark mountainside. Applejack could vaguely make out Twilight returning to the palace from the mines.

AJ took a deep breath and thought about her options. Twilight said something about public housing. Applejack could us a bath and some rest. Sleeping on the mine floor ain't very comfortable. With a determined expression she headed downtown.

It felt so good to be free of that blasted stink hole. Applejack had almost forgotten what it was like to feel the wind in her mane, smell the summer blossoms, and hear the calls of songbirds. Despite her argument with Twilight, AJ was hopeful that all that pain has past.

Applejack quickly found the Shelter. It was a low lying, featureless building with a large crowd of forlorn ponies loitering in front of it. Applejack approached a sleepy looking clerk stationed by the front door. "Howdy sir, might I ask y'all fer a bed?"

The clerk eyed her, "you and every other beggar out here. We don't have any more room. If ya want in you'll have to cough up the bits."

Applejack frowned, "I don't have any money, but I have a parole that entitles me to..."

"A Republican! out! Get out I say!"

"Can't I at least get a bite to eat?"

"Get out now!" the clerk yelled. A big stallion appeared from the doorway with a snarl. Applejack took the hint and skedaddled.

Down the block, Applejack stopped to catch her breath. " What the sam heck was that?" Applejack looked down to her growling stomach. She had not eaten since that dawn, or whenever the prison guards woke her that day. "I guess I'll have ta find grub somewhere else. I'm sure somepony round here is willin' to exchange a meal for some work."

Applejack looked around. Across the street a pegasus shopkeeper was painting her storefront. She was clearly inexperienced with a brush. She was getting more paint on the ground than the actual wall.

AJ called up, "Hey, y'all need help there sugar cube?"

The pegasus took one look at the grungy orange mare and fled back inside her shop, dropping the paint bucket on the ground. Applejack chased after her trying to find her though the storefront window. "I ain't goin' to hurt ya, I just want to help."

The terrified pony's face appeared in the window. "Go away. Don't hurt me. I don't have anything," she cried from within, screaming bloody murder.

"I told ya I won't hurt..." Applejack started, but she paused when she saw her reflection in the glass. What she saw was barely recognizable. Her mane and fur had become dirtier than an abandoned rat's nest. Her face had a few wrinkles not from age, but simple mileage. Her back bore scars from years of hauling diamond carts. Her teeth were caked in yellow plaque and hurt when she bit down. Her cutie mark was almost undistinguishable, her hoofs were cracked, and her tail was a tangled. Most unsettling of all was the glaring absence of a certain stetson. She had forgotten they took it before her trial. She felt naked and alone without her favorite hat, especially now.

Applejack knew she had to get help soon. Maybe if she gussied up a bit, ponies would be more willing to help. She remembered there was a pond somewhere near the castle. She headed up to the ritzier end of town. As she ascended the mountain the passerbys looked more and more apprehensive toward the convict.

One unicorn noble stopped momentarily to ask, "Do you come to the Cloud District very often? I'm kidding of course you don't."

Applejack raised a confused eyebrow, "What was that? I swear the thin air must get to these ponies' brains." From then on Applejack made sure to avoid the "Cloud District" residents as much as possible.

Finally Applejack found a pond in the extensive palace gardens. There was nopony around so she dipped right in. The cool water felt so good against her blistered skin. Using just her hooves, AJ tried to rub as much dirt out of her fur as possible. Suddenly a guard called out from the castle. In a panic, Applejack fled the garden as quick as her legs could carry her. This was way closer than the 100 yards permitted to her. The pegasus guards pursued her back out of the Cloud District. They were fast, but AJ used to run against Rainbow Dash. They didn't stand a chance.

Exhausted, Applejack once again started her search for aid, but everywhere she went, she was greeted with fearful glances, jeering insults, and sometimes stones. Hours went on without a single success. Some refused her immediately, others suddenly withdrew when they found she was a "Republican." None even bothered to hear her exclamations. By evening, the poor mare was starving, tired, and aching all over.

Her next stop was a doughnut shop with a hiring sign in the window. The answer was the same as the others. As AJ left dejected, she perked her ears to a sound from the back. She entered the alley to investigate. She found that the store just received a cart-full of fresh baked pastries. Better yet, the delivery pony went inside to finalize the delivery, leaving the cart unattended. All Applejack had to do was take one box and she could enjoy a dozen delicious donuts to stave her through the night.

"No," the starved mare said to herself, "I ain't goin'a stoop that low." However, it's been so long since I've had any baked goods and there was no other food available. There wasn't even grass up here outside of the ridiculously manicured lawns of the wealthy. What would it hurt to take just one box. After all, the shop owner missed the chance for a fair deal already. As they say, what goes around comes around. She was down the road with a box between her teeth before her thought was finished.

Applejack quickly ducked into an alley to eat her plunder. Her mouth watered when she found the box was filled with apple fritters, her favorite treat. She was about to gorge herself when she heard footsteps behind her. She whirled around to find a quartet of mean looking earth ponies.

The lead pony smiled evilly, "Lookie here pals. Looks like a tramp has scored us some dinner."

The pony next to him nodded, "maybe she'll give us a show too Brass Hoof."

Applejack gulped her dry throat, "I can share these with y'all but ain't giving ya no show."

Brass Hoof laughed, "She acts like she actually matters. We'll take what we want."

Applejack struggled as hard as she could, but she was too weak and they were too many of them. The first chance she got, she escaped and ran away. Desperately she looked for a place to hide. Tucked away in an alley AJ found a pig pen. The resident pig was chowing down on the slop in her trough. Applejack approached and the pig perked her head up.

"Ya don't mind if I share some with ya?" The pig snorted and continued eating. Applejack assumed that meant yes.

Applejack had risen enough pigs to know what slop is made of. Rotten apples we're the most appetizing ingredient. With her "meal" finished, Applejack tore down a Princess Promenade poster from a nearby wall and wrapped it around herself. AJ curled into a corner and looked up into the night sky. The Mare in the Moon stared back down at her, reminding her of the good times long ago. Finally letting all her pains and fears break out, Applejack started crying.

There was a time ponies were kind
When their voices were soft
N' their words invitin'
Once good deeds n' love were blind
The land a song
N' the song exitn'
There was a time
Then it all went wrong.

I dreamed a dream of a time better
When love was here
And friends worth havin'
I dreamed we'd always be together
I hoped they'd be forgiv'n
We were young and unafraid
The very best friends I could find
Oh, the memories we've made
No party not had, no mountain unclimbed

But came the princess of the night
With her voice that shook like thunder
She wanted to change the world
N' my friends were torn apart

Twilight kept at Celestia's side
Rainbow chose ta support the other
Our group was torn with a great divide
Things ave never been the same

I dreamed that they'd let me be
And not force me to choose
Betwin bein' safe or liv'n free
But I lost all I could lose

I'd dreamed my friends would be
Right here in my embrace
Instead I'm here all alone
Cuz my life has killed my dream

Author's Note

Wow I went dark in this chapter. I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. I Dreamed a Dream had far more liberty for ponification. Feel free to comment and critique. Thank you for reading.

An Act of Kindness

Weeks bled by for Applejack. Her entire existence boiled down scavenging, begging and running from varmits like Brass Hoof. The doughnut shop was not the last place she robbed. She gave up trying to get a job or getting inside the public housing. She spent most of her days sitting on the roadside clutching her aching stomach. She spent her nights hiding in whatever alley she found herself in.

One day a crowd of beggars were gathering long the road. A light of hope shone in their eyes. Applejack warily joined them. One brown mare looked down the street expectantly, "Are you sure she's coming?"

A blue filly nodded, "I saw her me-self. She gave me this." the filly reveal a perfectly ripe apple. Applejack's mouth watered just looking at it. So there was somepony who cared after all. She had to see who this pony was.

"Here she comes!" cried the brown mare.

The unicorn arrived with half the fanfare of a princess. She led a small train of ponies carrying baskets of food. As she passed the small clusters of beggars she levitated some fruits to each of them, giving them a warm, radiant smile. The beggars bowed, treating her like royalty. She certainly dressed like it. Her dress was blue with swirling purple accents and her hat looked like a peacock made a nest in a stovepipe. There is only one pony Applejack knew who would have such a fashion sense. "Rarity!"

The fashionista perked her ears to her name being called. "Who's there? Oh... Applejack? What are you doing here?"

Applejack hung her head, "It's a long story."

"I see... well we shall have plenty of time to discuss it at lunch. Come along now, you simply must be famished."

"That's mighty kind of ya."

"What are friends for."

"Sacre bleu!" Rarity gasped, "I never thought somepony's life could go so horribly." The pair were sitting outside Rarity's favorite cafe. Applejack's grimy coat was earning some rude stares, but no pony dared to bother the fashion queen of Canterlot.

Applejack frowned into her fifth cucumber and daffodil sandwich, "You don't know the half of it. Now I spend my days duckn' bandits and eatn' slop... but that don't mean I want yer pity."

Rarity rolled her eyes, "Relax darling, I can't just leave my friend out in the cold. Stay at my house. There's more than enough room for you."

"I wouldn't want ta take advantage of yer hospitality."

"Applejack," Rarity said sternly, "You can't go on like this. You WILL let me help you."

Applejack looked stunned, then smiled, "Thanks."

Rarity's "house" was more like a castle. It was easily as big as town hall back in Ponyville and twice as gaudy. The design made it look like a mix between a big plantation manor and the Crystal Palace. "Land sakes Rarity, how'd you manage to land this bungalow?"

A butler opened the ornately carved door for his mistress. "Well when a couple serves the cultural center of Equestria they tend to receive some benefits. It isn't quite as beautiful as the other Cloud District manors, but then the others don't pay their servants half as much." Applejack noticed that the servants who followed her were all smiling as they returned to their quarters.

Then AJ did a double take, "hold yer horses. Are you saying ya have a coltfriend?"

"Well, more like a husband. We've been married for 3 years now. Oh Trendy, I'm home and I brought a guest with me!"

Trenderhoof poked his head over the second floor balcony, "Hello my snowflake, I'll be down in a moment."

Applejack raised an eyebrow, "I thought he didn't like ya."

"Time can change many things Applejack. After we discovered our mutual knack for artistic potential things just clicked."

Trend cantered down the large staircase in the center of the room. "Honey, I was just reading about the cloaking magic of changlings. I think if we can use those properties for...A- Applejack!" He stared at the farm pony a little too long before shaking his head clear. "How nice to have you at our home."

Applejack blushed. Rarity coughed, "Trendy, Applejack will be joining us for dinner. Could you escort her to the powder room to freshen up?"

The brown unicorn looked like he saw a ghost, but he quickly regained his composure, "very well, right this way Applejack."

"Now if you don't mind, I require some freshening up as well." Rarity glanced back at her husband. She will have to find a way to punish him for his behavior later. Then she trotted upstairs.

The walk to the bathroom was plagued by Trend's constant gabbing. He seemed to be listing every fashion trend in the past decade. By the time they made it to the guest bathroom (which was just down the hall) Applejack knew more about liposuctions and powdered wigs than she ever wanted to.

"Thank ya Trenderhoof. I can take it from here," said Applejack

"O- ok. Supper is in an hour and it is wonderful to have Rarity's most beauti-"Slam! "Ok, see you later."

Applejack stepped out of the bathroom feeling refreshed. She was never so happy to be clean in her life. She actually looked like her old self again minus a certain cowpony hat. Suddenly, her ears perked up to a beautiful voice echoing through the main hall. The earth pony eagerly followed the silvery voice.

There is a castle in the clouds
It is a beautiful place to be
There is a room there for you and me
up in the castle in the clouds

AJ slowly walked up the stairs toward a room that looked like a study.

There is a room that's full of toys
and enough cake for a hundred foals
nopony's mean or shouts aloud
Not in the castle in the clouds

There's a lady with a coat of white
She comes out and shields us all
warm as the sun and soft as wool
We are blessed under her fine rule

Applejack entered the study to find a young white unicorn with a light pink and purple mane.

There is a place to guide the lost
It is a place where none may cry
Crying is simply not allowed
Not in her castle in the clouds

"That was mighty nice Sweetie Bell."

The young mare turned around and gave a wide grin, "Applejack!" Sweetie Bell gave the orange mare a big hug.

"Howdy little filly. Looks like yer all grown up."

"Yes, ma'am," Sweetie replied showing off her silver bell cutie mark.

Rarity entered the room, "Sweetie Bell dinner is ready. Oh Applejack, I suppose you heard Sweetie's rehearsal for the Summer Sun Festival. Isn't she just wonderful. My little sister has become quite the music sensation. She was even the headliner for the hit musical Princess Promenade."

Sweetie Belle blushed, "It wasn't that good. The costumes were the best part."

"Nonsense darling, now come along. Our dinner is getting cold."

Over dinner Rarity brought Applejack up to speed on the past ten years of events. The Princesses have been working full time to maintain harmony in the wake of the Civil War. Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Discord have apparently created a traveling circus. Spike has been taking increasingly long naps as he's started dragon puberty again.

"This ain't another case of dragon greed gone haywire again is it?" AJ inquired.

"No, nothing like that. Little Spiky- Wiky is just growing up is all," Rarity assured her. A silence fell upon the table.

Applejack finally asked the only question left that mattered, "What about Rainbow Dash?"

Rarity sighed, "I don't know. She disappeared after Luna's surrender. Her name is still listed on the wanted lists, but her whereabouts are nothing more than rumors."

Rainbow was always the most avid Republican in their circle. No doubt she fled to avoid imprisonment or worse, execution.

"Scootaloo is gone too," chimed in Sweetie Bell. That made sense. Scootaloo worshiped Rainbow and would follow her anywhere.

"Enough about the past. Lets talk about your future. Applejack would you like a job in this household?"

Trenderhoof looked astonished, "My gem, do you mean to hire your friend?"

"Why of course. We have plenty of room. I would also be more than happy to pay the "debts" you have accumulated since your release."

Applejack considered the offer, "dock it outa my pay and make it double the price and ya got yourself a deal."

Rarity smiled, "only Applejack would alter a deal out of her favor. I missed you."

Applejack returned the smile, "I missed ya too."

Author's Note

Oh boy was this one difficult to write. In my initial idea, AJ getting hired was only the halfway mark, but I've got plenty of material for another chapter. Castle on a Cloud was remarkably easy to write. It's like the song was made for mlp. Please comment, critique and like. I hope you enjoyed it.

Clash of Values

After a few days, Applejack got into the swing of things. Maid's work was easy compared to farm work. The masters of the house were often gone opening this gallery and attending that garden party. Applejack still didn't understand why no gardening took place at them.

AJ even got to go to some of them as "help." She insisted to be there when Rarity paid the shop owners she stole from. Most of them were angry but were quickly satisfied by the double payment. It was a relief for Applejack to get that off her chest.

About a week into the job Rarity told AJ she would be hosting a dinner party that night and she wanted the orange mare to make the meal with the house chef, Gustav. "I'd be much obliged to."

"Oh and can you make some of those Apple recipes especially for Prince Blueblood? I want to see him squirm when he finds out he's been eating country food."

Applejack grinned, "it'd be my pleasure."

The country pony spent the rest of the day cooking in the kitchen. Gustav was nice enough for a griffon if you could get past his ridiculous accent. He probably felt the same way about her. They mutually agreed that Applejack would take of the appetizers and dessert while he will handle the main course.

By the time she was done, ponies started to arrive. There was the usual Canterlot crowd; Hoity Toity, Fancy Pants, and Prince Blueblood were all present. None of them noticed the earth pony serving ho derps, or was it our dirts. Frankly, Applejack didn't want to associate with anypony who couldn't come across a plow without giving it a fancy name.

Suddenly, Applejack spotted a familiar purple mare and a little dragon come through the door. Rarity immediately greeted her new guests, "I'm so glad you could come Twilight. You never seem to call anymore. And Spike! You keep getting bigger every time I see you. I can tell your growing into a handsome young dragon."

Spike blushed,"Aw shucks. Your just saying that. I don't really grow that fast. My wings haven't even sprouted yet."

Twilight rolled her eyes,"I only came because Princess Celestia told me to. I'm already two months behind schedule this year."

Rarity patted Spike's head, "come you will never guess who my newest maid is." She called Applejack over.

Spike gasped at the sight of his old friend, "Twilight, you didn't tell me Applejack was released."

Twilight kept a frown on the entire time, "I didn't have time to tell you. You were hibernating again at the time. I hope you kept to the rules of parole Applejack. That seems to be a difficulty for most paroles."

"I followed them straight as I could." the mare in question half lied. She bent more than a few rules since her release. She hated having to hide that fact.

The Princess did not seem convinced by AJ's reply but did not press the issue.

Prince Blueblood interrupted from the appetizer tray, "Rarity, these pastries are delicious. Whatever are they?"

Applejack cleared her throat, "Well yer highness, yer enjoying the classic Apple Family recipe for apple fritters." With a look of disgust, Blueblood spit the pastry out like it was poison. Everypony but Twilght laughed aloud as the stallion guzzled a bottle of wine to erase that country taste from his mouth.

The evening continued swimmingly. Spike grumbled every time Trenderhoof nuzzled with Rarity. Which was about every ten minutes. Sweetie Bell was talking music with that grey celloist, Octavia. They seemed to be planning another Equestria tour together. Rarity was having a particularly good time chatting with Fancy Pants about an upcoming charity drive.

Near the end of the meal Twilight got a message through Spike. "Excuse me everypony there is a small matter I must attend to. I will be back in a few minutes." With a flash she tried to teleport but she didn't disappear.

"Oh, you can't teleport in here Twlight," Rarity informed, "The crystals just reflect the spell." So Twilight just trotted out normally.

"That's a shame," said Spike, "I guess that means more food for me right." The young dragon reached for Twilight's plate only for his claw to be swatted away.

"Hold yer horses sugar cube," Applejack scolded, "if y'all want dessert you'd want to save some room."

Prince Blueblood pushed his plate aside, "One wouldn't want to spoil the best part of a meal. Bring the desserts in now if you will."

Applejack raised an eyebrow, "but not everypony's done eating.."

"Do as your told now servant. You speak too much already." AJ cursed under her breath as she left. The royal turned to his stunned host, "mouthy peasants need to know their place don't you think."

A few of the guests nodded but the Rarity rose up and said, "Prince Blueblood, you will not treat my employees like that in my home." Her husband and Spike stood up to agree with her. All the conversing at he table ceased. The jovial atmosphere blew out like a candle.

The pompous prince started looking angry, "you have always been too soft Rarity. You may speak like a Canterlot noble, but you are still a peasant at heart. You'll never belong here."

Rarity only barely held her composure, "Everypony, it seems I will have to cut my dinner party short. The mood has been lost."

Disappointed, the well to do guests started filing out. Rarity gave a confused Applejack the order to clear the table. Sweetie Bell bolted off with Octavia in tow to work on a new song. Spike stayed behind to wait for Twilight. The dragon suddenly looked very sleepy. Rarity levitated him to the upstairs study to lie on the couch up there.

Applejack went about clearing the table. Suddenly she heard yelling outside the window. When she investigated she found Prince Blueblood scolding a brown earth pony who must have been his servant. The royal white unicorn was brandishing a cane in his magic. Applejack was about to go back to work when Blueblood struck the cowering pony. Even from inside, AJ heard the prince curse like a drunk bandit as he beat the poor stallion. She realized that Blueblood had no intention of stopping.

Quick as a whip, Applejack charged out of the dining hall, through the main hall, and out the door. With whooping yeehaw, she tackled the obnoxious royal off the earth pony.

"You," Blueblood cried, "it's time to teach you little dirt scratcher a lesson." He got up and lowered his horn in a practiced fencing position. He jabbed so quickly Applejack was barely able to dodge.

The prince tried to press the attack but AJ stepped inside his horn. She quickly sweeped under his forelegs. Blueblood tripped under the unconventional tactic and faceplanted into the ground. Applejack jumped to his tail end that was still supported by his rear legs. She cocked her own rear legs and gave a mighty buck right in the prince's inheritance. The once proud, suave buck was sent flying through the air towards the castle. The next day Celestia would wake up to find her nephew unconscious and crippled on her private balcony.

The stallion who was being brutalized got up on shaking hooves, "Thank you orange mare. Trust me, one day I'll make it up to you." Then he ran off into the night.

"Eeyup, thats how we do it on the farm," said the victorious mare smugly. But her revelry was interrupted by familiar voice.

[Twilight]
Applejack, of course
Now I see you plain
Your act of rage
Will land you back in chains

Applejack started to back into Rarity's manor, followed steadily be Twilight.

[Applejack]
What in tarnation do ya mean, Twilight?
I was trying to save a life
It was Blueblood! don't ya see?
The poor pony was being beaten to death
There was none but me to intercede
Should I ave let Blueblood do the deed
It's the right thing to do
In the name of friendship...

[Twilight]
That's where your wrong!
That Blueblood will get his due
but your crimes are just as bad
So says Celestia's law.

[Applejack] [Twilight]
What's happened to you Twilight? Theft, trespassing, now assault
I thought you were once a friend Did you think these would go unseen?
Now ya refuse me forgiveness No! 24601
Ya don't even give me a chance Love and tolerance that's our goal
Don't ya see what ya've become? There are those who'd end it all
Ya've become as mean as sin Like you, 24601
Caring nothin' bout what I've through
I'm warnin' ya Twilight Luna and Rainbow had their chance
I'm a stronger mare by far You have even had your chance
I'll not be goin' back to jail Harmony's like apple pie
Not for what I haven't done If the ingredients don't pitch in
I never betrayed you Twilight the entire thing crumbles up
I never got to choose a side Celestia's rule holds it true
How can I abandon any of y'all Loyalty to her must come first
I don't understand. You chose blood over water

Your family has caused your curse!

Pfthnk shink! A massive wall of crystal shot up and enclosed Twilight, separating the ponies at each others throats. AJ spun to see Rarity and her family running down the stairs. Rarity's horn was glowing with magic keeping the crystal up.

"Nopony will fight in my household and no employee of mine will be arrested under my watch." Rarity snapped as she stood next to Applejack.

Twilight tried to blast out of her prison. Rarity strained to keep it intact, "I- I don't think I can hold her much longer. Sweetie Bell, get Applejack out of here. Ugh! Take her to Pinkie's."

"I don't want to leave you," protested Sweetie Bell.

"Don't, ah, argue with me. She needs you more than I. Now g- go!" Sweetie and AJ ran for the back door. The rest of the household started to follow except for Trenderhoof, who added his own magic to Rarity's. "Go with them Trend. I beg, hah, you."

Trend smiled and grit his teeth, "I would never leave you my jewel. Besides I was always fascinated with the aesthetic of mines." Rarity chuckled between her gasps.

It took Twilight a couple minutes to shatter the diamond cage as Rarity and her husband collapsed in exhaustion. "You traitor, you will tell me where the fugitive went or by Celestia I'll see to it you'll never see daylight again," the princess steamed.

Rarity weakly rose her head weakly, "no. AJ's right Twilight. You've changed. I was just afraid to admit it till now. Can I make one request. Take care of my servants please."

Twilight snarled, "They'll be taken care of. Their going to prison with you. There is no place for the lot of you in Harmony." She enveloped the couple, the remaining house residents, and the sleeping Spike in her magic and took them outside to teleport them to the guardhouse.

Twilight returned to her room in one of the castle towers and gently tucked Spike into his bed. She would have to explain a lot to him in a few days when he'll wake up. While she was at the guardhouse she ordered the guard on high alert and told them to stop and search everypony trying to leave the city.

Exhausted, Twilight walked out onto the balcony. All of Equestria could be seen from there, dark and cold under the mare in the moon. The embodiment of magic gazed up at the constellations hang in the night sky,. constant guardians over the slumbering ponies below.

There, out in the darkness
A fugitive running
fallen from love
fallen from peace
Celestia be my witness
I never shall yield
Till we come face to face
Till we come face to face

She's become a part of the dark
I am a mare of the light
For those who bask in the sun's warmth
They'll always be alright
And if they leave
Like Nightmare Moon
They can't escape
Their plight

Stars
In your great patterns
Standing your post
Filling the darkness
With order and light
You are the beacons
Silent and sure
Guiding us through the night
Guiding us through the night

You know your place in the sky
You don't need magic's guide
And you keep in formation
Year after year
Always remaining the same
And unlike the light of the moon
You never fade

And so it must be
So it is written
That the key to harmony
Is the that everypony has a destiny
And must follow it true

Celestia help me find her
So I may see her
Back in the light
Or if it come to it
End the shadow that she casts
This I swear by the stars

Author's Note

EEyup, two songs for one this time. I hope this chapter gave y'all a better look at Twilight's behavior. The Confrontation and Stars are two of my favorites done so far. Anyway, School is starting up for me soon so updates will take longer. Please comment and critique to your hearts content.

Note: The Confrontation may not link well with the original score. I tried my best but the internet lyrics just list one after the other, making it hard to sync the opposing lines.

Masters of Morale

Applejack and Sweetie Bell weaved through the streets as fast as they could. They kept running until long after anypony could follow them. They finally settled down in an alley somewhere near the Public Shelter. Applejack sat down, keeping an eye out for any guards or worse thugs. The last thing she wanted was for Sweetie Bell to experience what she went through.

Suddenly, Sweetie Bell started sobbing uncontrollably into her worn party dress. AJ put a gentle hoof on her shoulder, "You ok sugar cube?"

The young unicorn sniffled," I'm scared for Rarity. S-she's going to prison isn't she? The Princess, she..."

"Shh. It'll be alright young'un. Rarity's tougher than she looks. She's gonna be just fine. It's them prison guards I'm worried about."

Sweetie Bell managed to smile a bit. Her eyes were still a little teary though.

"Come on now. We gotta get ya outta that dress. Don't want ya stickn' out round these parts. Then we can go find a Pinkie Pie."

They hid the dress in a rubbish pile and rolled around in the dirt for good measure. Despite the circumstances, Sweetie Bell seemed glad for the rare opportunity to get dirty. After they looked sufficiently downtrodden, the unicorn started leading them down the mountainside towards the Canterlot rodeo grounds where the circus was camped.

After a few minutes of walking Sweetie Bell asked Applejack, "How can you deal with it?"

"I beg your pardon?"

"How do you deal with all this? Apple Bloom, the mines, and now Twilight. I don't know how you can stay so strong through it. I've just had a taste of what this is and I can barely take it. So how can you?"

Applejack lowered her head and allowed a single tear, "The truth is I can't sugar cube. All this... trouble is tearin' me ta pieces. But my folks taught me to never let yer problems become somepony else's. That means I have to keep a strong face and act brave. Even though I'm more scared than anyth'n."

Silence hung between them for a few moments. Then Sweetie Bell asked, "Do you miss them? Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and the others."

Applejack looked her companion, "More than anything." They continued to walk.

[Applejack]
Suddenly alone
Suddenly shes gone
One strike of a gavel
Then there's one
One day I was home
With my kin right beside me
Then a stir in the heart
Caused them to depart
With me alone

Suddenly the world
Seemed a different place
Everypony mak'n haste
Towards war
I suppose I should've known that it
Would eventually reach me
What is past 's gone
Now we journey on through the night

How was I supposed ta see
When tragedy started stalk'n me
When they showed up at my door
I could no longer ignore
With guns set blazing the night
They all fell for their good fight
They have no future of love and care
No more memories that we can share

Forever alone
Forever apart
The Princess broke my heart
like a glass
Just one word ta spare a life
That's all I ever wanted
Suddenly she leaves
My friend abandoned me
And then suddenly
I'm alone

The pair finally arrived at the carnival grounds. The random assortment of attractions bore Pinkie and Discord's special brand of entertainment. Over the natural sounds of the night a Discord's voice spoke over a PA system.

Do you want a break from Equestria's endless stream of holidays? Well too bad because here we party every day.

The place was dark and empty save for a yellow pegasus tending a nearby animal pen. AJ and Sweetie Bell approached her. When she saw somepony approaching Fluttershy hid ducked behind the fence. She peeked her head out to say, "I'm sorry, but we're closed right now. Come back tomorrow if that's ok with yo-" Fluttershy gasped and tackled her friend," Applejack!"

AJ chuckled,"Howdy do, Fluttershy. How've ya been?"

"Oh I'm fine. I just take care of my little animal friends around here. Celestia also told me to keep an eye on Discord, but I don't think he needs watching."

Drink Flim/Flam cider, because who cares if it tastes horrible if everypony can have some.

Applejack raised an eyebrow, "If ya say so. Look Fluttershy, we need a place to lie low for a while."

"Oh dear, what happened? Please come on in. Tell me everything"

They all went to a large tent near the center of the grounds. Along the way, Applejack and Sweetie Bell gave a brief explanation of the events of that night.

"My goodness, that IS horrible. I hope Rarity and Twilight are alright. I'd hate to see all my friends fight again." Fluttershy open a flap to the dark interior of the tent, "now please be quiet. Pinkie's been working so hard and I'd hate to interrupt her sleep."

As soon as the trio entered the tent Pinkie Pie burst out in an explosion of confetti and streamers screaming "Surprise!" Fluttershy passed out in shock to the party pony's sudden appearance.

Pinkie Pie bounced around them gleefully, "I knew it! I knew my Pinkie Senses were right. An itchy knee means an old friend will come looking for help. Madame Le Flour said it meant a volcano was erupting, but she was totally wrong."

Applejack once again gave the low down of what happened. Pinkie Pie did not look the least bit surprised, "So you came over here to have a super secret, hide from Twilight slumber party!"

Applejack yawned, "eeyup." She noticed Sweetie Bell looked tired too. "Look Pinkie I'd love ta talk more but it's gett'n late. We can talk more in the morn'n."

The pink pony nodded, "Okey- dokey, the beds are over here.

AJ woke up to a cold shower of water soaking her. She jumped out of bed and landed face first of the dirt floor. She quickly got up to find Discord laughing hysterically. "Why the tarnation did ya do that for?" the earth pony yelled, waking poor Sweetie Bell up.

"Wh- what's happening?" the unicorn asked groggily

Discord snapped his fingers and the shower head soaking the bed disappeared, "I just happened to come to work when I found a little fugitive that absolutely reeked of honesty. So I thought a nice shower would wipe that honesty right off her." her eyed her closely, "Clearly that stain is much tougher than I thought."

"Gee thanks a lot Discord." Applejack said sarcastically.

"Now thats more like it Applejack. Take out that annoyed tone in your voice and you should have no trouble lying to everypony you meet. You don't want Princess Twilight to catch you right?"

"I ain't lyin' ta nopony and how'd ya find out 'bout that any way?"

The Draconicus manifested a newspaper into his claw, "It's all over the news my dear. 'Republican Mad Mare Attacks Prince,' 'Princess Twilight Issues Warrant for Fugitives arrest' congratulations you are now the most wanted mare in Canterlot."

Applejack sighed, "Twilight always knew how ta organize things quickly."

Discord rolled his eyes, "Oh yes, Twilight Sparkle. I don't know if you've noticed but she has become such a bore since your... imprisonment. She's always keeping harmony this and they all betrayed me that. Like she has any clue what betrayal is."

"Speak'n of betrayal how do I know ya ain't gonna snitch on me?"

"You can trust me pal. I already promised Fluttershy to tell nopony where you are, Cross my claws hope to fly stick a cupcake in your pie hole." a halo appeared above his head as he stuffed a cupcake into Sweetie Bell's mouth.

In that second Fluttershy came into the tent in a clear rush, "I'm sorry to interrupt but Discord? Pinkie says we have to start in a minute. Ponies are already starting to come in."

Sweetie Bell squeed at the prospect of seeing one Pinkie and Discord's legendary shows. "Can I get a front row seat Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy shrugged, "I guess its ok." The pair exited to secure their seats.

"I'll be there in a minute," Discord called after them.

Applejack couldn't help but ask, "How is it y'all came round to runnin' a circus anyway?"

Discord gave a mischievous smile, "Oh ho ho, I'll tell you." AJ immediately regretted the question.

[Discord]
My life was dull, with nothing for me to do
No funny jokes, and no chaos to ensue
All that war made everypony glum
With only tea for fun (no offense to Fluttershy)
I told Celestia how I feel
And so we made a deal

Discord snapped his fingers and suddenly they were in the stands of the rodeo arena. Which was painted gaudily with pink and blue stripes. There were already dozens of ponies with more flooding in and they were all looking at the two who just materialized.

[Discord]
Welcome, Madame, sit yourself down
And see the best showcase around
Here we have fun, smiles drawn wide
Bringing out the filly your hiding inside
Courtesy of me
And my pal Pinkie
By Celestia's command
We both get to be

Masters of morale, Jesters of the crown
Turning all your problems upside down
Playing every night, selling out the house
And we do it better than any talking mouse
Everypony needs some madness
To cut their daily woes
Mix some magic with a song
And well you can see how it goes

Masters of morale, Jokers till the end
None can resist a simple reality bend
Going back in time, shattering the wall
Twisting up your mind till you lose it all
Everpony loves Discord
Always a your best friend
I can do what I please
Trust me we'll be laughing in the end

[All]
Masters of morale, Keeping spirits high
Courtesy of Discord and Pinkie Pie
Always there for you, always with a smile
Helping out even when its out of style
Everypony needs kindness
Everypony needs a laugh

[Pinkie Pie]
Wait a second Discord
I'll start off the next half

Come on my friends,lets have some fun
This Pinkie Party has only begun
Start up the games, blow up the balloons
Pull up a chair and watch some cartoons
Break out the party cannon
Watch as everything explodes
Put your happy faces on
And we'll have laughter by the loads

Have a couple snacks, something nice and sweet
Try a Rainbow cupcake they can't be beat
Doughnuts, chocolate mousse, delectable eclairs
Cherrychunga, lollipops, and gummy bears
We love hearing new jokes
Even a few honest pranks
Every ounce of joy
Earns a special thanks

A pony in the crowd somehow managed to scrunch his face in to a cyclops pony look for a minute, earning a huge applause.

[Discord]
Hooray for you Monsieur, have some lemonade
By the way have you seen Princess Promenade?
Oh you have not? Are you sure that's wise
Everypony in the audience gets a prize
Don't think nothing of it
I'm just doing my job
Not that I get payed, but hey
pastries are easy to rob

[All]
Masters of morale, keeping spirits high
Courtesy of Discord and Pinkie Pie
Always there for you, always with a smile
Helping out even when its out of style
Everypony needs kindness
Life can be such a trial

[Discord]
And we will hold you over
At least for a little while

[Pinkie Pie]
I used to fill the town with joy
But now its like looking at a broken toy

Master of Morale, is very very hard
Everypony smiles but has a broken heart
I do what I can, wipe away their tears
Keeping them going when they get out of here
Leaving with gleam of courage, hoping they would stay strong
One thing I know for sure they won't be gone for long

[Audience]
Masters of Morale

[Discord]
Plus a Fluttershy

[Audience]
Most considerate of friends

[Pinkie Pie]
Now its time to say goodbye

[Audience]
Always there for you, always with a smile

[Discord]
Such formalities are not my style

[Audience]
Everypony loves Discord
Who doesn't like Pinkie Pie

[Pinkie Pie]
Everypony make a toast

[Discord]
To your humble host

[All]
We will always be your pal, the Masters of Morale

snap! The arena was instantly cleared of all the visitors. Sweetie Bell and Applejack stomped their hooves in applause. "That was amazing," shouted Sweetie Bell.

Pinkie jumped to their place in the stands, "I know, right? You should have seen last years Nightmare Night party. Haha, Discord brought the scariest cave in Equestria right in the middle of Manehattan. It was great."

Fluttershy shuttered at the memory, "please don't mention that again."

Suddenly a thunderous, distant boom rang through the air. The mares looked up to find a piece of paper drifting down to them and a rainbow trail fading into the distance. Pinkie quickly grabbed it and read it over. She gasped," It's a super duper secret letter from Rainbow Dash."

Applejack's eyes widened, "by golly, she's still alive. Noth'n could take down that pony.

"She must have been very far away for all this time. I've never heard a sonic rainboom that faint," said a concerned Fluttershy.

"Well Pinkie, what does it say?" asked AJ.

"Calling all freedom fighters. The time has come to act. Meet me at the beginning of the end.," Pinkie Pie smiled, "oh boy I love riddles. Lets see... the oven, no... the hospital?... I know! the climax!"

Applejack stuck a hoof in the pink pony's mouth, "I think I got this sugar cube. If Rainbow's talk'n about the war then there's only one place she'd go. She's goin' home."

"Ponyville?! That's where the Summer Sun Celebration is," Sweetie Bell provided, " remember Applejack, I was supposed to sing there this year."

"What?!" cried Pinkie, "they're having the Summer Sun Celebration in Ponyvillle without me? That's it we're going."

"Are you sure?" Fluttershy asked, "I mean I miss Rainbow Dash too but the letter it sounds like ponies are going to be fighting again.I don't think I can take it." She started crying

AJ comforted the pegasus, "I understand Fluttershy. I ain't exactly beat'n the war drums either, but I have a few words for that blue devil."

Pinkie nodded "It's settled then."

"Hey where did Discord go?" Sweetie Bell inquired. Sure enough the draconicus had disappeared.

Applejack looked around frantically, "where did that lizard go?"

Pinkie shrugged, "oh he'll be alright. Come on we have some packing to do."

Author's Note

This chapter was a pain to write. I hope you like it. Please like, comment and critique

PS For the sake of your sanity do not watch Princess Promenade or any other G3 MLP no matter what Discord says.

At the Begining of the End

Ponyville was no longer the quiet little town it was ten years ago. Its population quadrupled as ponies of all sorts settled settled around Twilight's tree castle. Government and military officials occupied significant mansions surrounding the massive crystal structure standing watch over the streets. For every well to do manor there were a dozen shacks filled with beggars and peasants. Many of these sad souls were refugees from villages like Appleloosa and Dodge City that were destroyed in the war. Coupled with the economic depression caused by the fall of the Apple family, Ponyville became a depressing place.

Applejack, Sweetie Bell, Pinkie, and Fluttershy stepped off the train and into a bustling crowd. AJ and Sweetie wore cloaks to disguise themselves. Fortunately, the Canterlot guards were more interested in the party pony trying to make them laugh than the two ponies with suspicious brown hoods covering their heads. They all breathed a sigh of relief as the left the train station and got lost in the crowd.

Applejack looked around at the throngs of skinny, unkempt ponies shuffling about. Despite being mid-morning, the entire town seemed grey like a cloud was hanging over it. Some urchins were trying desperately to slurp up a spilled barrel of cider. A noble tried his best to avert his eyes from the feces on the ground as they squished under his chariot's wheels. The sight made AJ wish for the back alleys of Canterlot. "I can't believe it got so bad here," she mused.

"I can't believe I managed to pack everything into one suitcase!" shouted Pinkie as she lugged an overstuffed bag behind her.

"Um, how do we find Rainbow Dash?" asked Fluttershy.

The group searched around for any signs of the pegasus. Suddenly a voice called out from the direction of the castle, "Come on everypony!"

Sweetie Bell shook off her hood. Her eyes widened, "Scootaloo?!" Quick as a whip she dashed toward the voice. The others quickly followed.

They weaved through the streets and soon found themselves in a square in front of the palace. The crowd occupying the space was close to rioting. The starving ponies were pressed up against the castle's and nearby mansions' gates begging for a handout. A small pegasus mare with stubby wings was scaling one of the mansion wall to reach a noble couple dining on their balcony.

[Crowd]
Look down and see the beggars underneath
Look down and show an inkling of mercy
Look down and see our pain beyond belief
Look down, look down,
Behave like a pony

[Scootaloo]
Hello there, I'm Scootaloo
Come here fresh from my hideaway
All my friends have come here too
Getting these good folk their hay
Is this what you call love and harmony?
Feasting away while others beg
Keeping you eyes closed to reality
It's time to stop pulling your leg
Think your happy? Think your free?
Follow me! Follow me!

Scootaloo flipped the contents of the table into the crowd, who eagerly ate the remains of the nobles' brunch. She jumped off the balcony, batting her wings to slow her fall. She landed next to her scooter and zoomed away followed by the crowd.

[Crowd]
Look down and show an inkling of mercy
Look down, look down, please be a good pony

[Scootaloo]
The last time Luna fought her sis
Things did not turn out so well
We could do nothing to resist
So the revolution fell
This town was once center of friendship
now it's held in eternal gloom
If ponies don't mend their relationships
Equestria will soon face its doom
Make your choice, slave or free
As for me, Vive le Republique

Scootaloo entered a small square packed with ponies. The crowd following her merged into the one in the square. She ground next to a halt next to a griffin eying those around her. Above the mass of ponies hovered Rainbow Dash proudly singing along with them.

[Crowd]
Look down and show an inkling of mercy
Look down, look down I'm also a pony.

This has got to end
Celestia's got to go
The moon princess will return
This at least I know
She'll come, she'll come, she'll come
She'll come, she'll come

[Rainbow Dash]
Mares and stallions of the land
It's time to stand up for our rights
Our princess watches from above
Soon enough we will start this fight
The summer sun rises at dawn
Praising the old Solar Empire
With all the protest in the land
The bright stars will surely conspire
Princess Luna will finally arrive

[All]
And the barricades will rise

"Guards!" sompony yelled. Sure enough a squad of unicorn guards were marching up the street spears at the ready.

One of them called out, " Rainbow Dash, by order of the princess you are under arrest. Surrender immediately."

"Oh boy, looks like I gotta split fellas. We meet tonight at Sweet Apple Acres. Be cool or be a mule." Rainbow flew off and Gilda flew off after her keeping a sharp eye on her six.

The guards tried to chase the fleeing pegasus, but they were swamped by the crowd chanting "Long Live Luna." They soon realized the danger and retreated without a fuss.

Sweetie Bell rushed to her friend who was about to scoot off into the alleys. "Scootaloo!" she yelled at the top of her lungs.

The pegasus turned her head just in time to meet Sweetie's hug, "Hey Sweetie Bell. Long time no see."

"Where have you been? I haven't seen you in forever."

"I've been in the Griffin Kingdom with Rainbow Dash. It's totally awesome. You gotta go there some time."

"Ooh did you get your cutie mark? Let me see."

Scootaloo showed her friend her mark. It was of course a scooter in the middle of some areal maneuver. She explained, "Its not exactly easy to climb the mountains in the Griffin Kingdom. So I got really good at jumping them."

The two friends spent hours chatting as the group wandered through the back streets of Ponyville. Applejack made sure to keep an eye out for any more guards. Surely Twilight would have alerted them in case she managed to return to Ponyville. Especially with the Summer Sun Celebration tomorrow. Pinkie threw away any pretense of stealth and greeted everypony they met. Once she was done, even the meanest of ponies were wearing a smile. Fluttershy made sure to stay close to Applejack and avoided any eye contact whatsoever.

They stopped by Sugar Cube Corner for lunch. The cakes seemed happy to see them. The family had fallen on hard times. The Flim- Flam brothers had bought up most of the stores in town, including their own. Those little weasels always took the majority of profits the Cakes made. Pinkie Pie made sure to give the an extra big tip.

The rest of the day was spent touring Ponyville. To the horror of all of them every street seemed worse and worse. The schoolhouse was run down and overcrowded, the market had more pickpockets than stalls, and Fluttershy's cottage was leveled for a factory that was only half finished before it was abandoned.Fluttershy was especially distraught by this. She even looked angry. AJ hoped to Celestia that Flim and Flam would not show up for their own sake.

As the sun began to set they started moving toward Sweet Apple Acres... or Flim Flam fields, whatever it was called now. Scootaloo turned to Applejack, "Rainbow Dash and I checked out the Acres earlier. I should warn ya AJ, it's not pretty."

The orange mare looked down at the road, "I've seen my fair share of ugly. I can take some more."

Gosh darn it, she hated eating her own words. The sight of what was once her farm broke her heart. the vast fields were choked in the smog of the Brothers' cider making machines. The trees looked sickly and were infested with vampire fruit bats. A section of the farm was swamped as a beaver dam swelled the river. Most of the farm buildings were replaced with factories for the cider making.

The only thing in the farm that remained untouched was the giant farmhouse. Applejack wondered why the Flim Flam Brothers would leave that alone. As she approached she realized why. The building was still ridden with bullet holes and scorch marks. There was a gaping hole in the side of the building. In the front yard a large plaque read:

Here was the last battleground of Big Macintosh and his infamous Macintosh Marauders. Princess Twilight Sparkle and a battalion of Royal Guards followed the company of rebels here after the battle of Everfree Forest. She laid siege on the marauders for three days. The Guard's casualties were heavy at a rate of 3 to1, but eventually numbers and magical superiority allowed victory. Big Macintosh was killed and the remaining rebels were arrested. The defeat of the Macintosh Marauders and the subsequent collapse of the Crusader Spy Ring directly lead to the downfall of the Lunar Rebellion and the final banishment of Princess Luna.

They kept this place as a trophy, a reminder of what happens to those who oppose Celestia's rule. Applejack found it odd the plaque made no mention of her. Then again it also saw fit not to mention Applebloom was there either or that the "Crusader Ring" was entirely made up of fillies and colts. Her eyes teared up as she remembered the foals being dragged off to their execution.

"Why did Rainbow want to meet here?" asked Fluttershy.

Sweetie Bell thought for a moment, "Irony I guess?"

A light turned on inside the house. "Ooh,ooh Somepony's home. I'll go say hello," said Pinkie Pie. She knocked the door and yelled for somepony to answer it.

Gilda popped her head out and her eyes narrowed when she saw the pink pony. She snarled, "You! What are you doing here?"

"Hi Gilda. We're here for the secret Republican meeting at Sweet Apple Acres. Is Rainbow Dash here yet?"

"What do you care about Dash or the Republic you loser. Where were you when she was on the run from your princess? Too busy partying?"'

"Hey parties are serious and Twilight really really needed one. Besides I care for everypony. Especially my friends."

"Whatever. Come on in. Dash was hoping you'd come any way." Gilda let the door swing open and stood aside as the mares walked inside. Despite her clear distaste for Pinkie Pie, the griffin seemed far more tolerant of the others. She even gave Scootaloo a hoof bump.

A few ponies were already inside looking for any suitable surface to sit on. Luckily the blood stains were washed out and the interior was remarkably well preserved. Painful memories flashed in front of Applejack's eyes. Everywhere she saw the horrible events that happened so many years ago. She wandered into the dining room and was shocked to see Big Mac in there toting his blunderbuss in one hoof or rather a mannequin of him. The room was arranged like a museum with display cases lining the walls. AJ assumed most of the house was arranged in a similar way. Her house had become a museum dedicated to the worst part of her life.

"Its kinda weird isn't it?" Rainbow Dash was coolly leaning in the doorway to the kitchen.

"Ya don't know the half of it." Applejack's mood improved slightly upon seeing her friend.

Rainbow punched Applejack's shoulder, "It's good to see you. When I heard you were on the run I knew you'd come. You even brought Pinkie and Fluttershy with you. That is awesome."

"I just wanted to say somethn' to ya sugar cube."

"What's tha- oof," Rainbow Dash keeled over as Applejack kicked her in the guts.

"What the hay were ya'll think'n Rainbow! Gett'n us all wrapped up in yer revolution," Applejack yelled, "Ya think ponies will defy Celestia cuz some fool pony says Luna's com'n back? Even if she did what makes ya think it'll be any different this time?"

Rainbow snapped, " What am I supposed to do AJ? I need to do something about this while I still can. I thought you of all ponies would understand. Just look at what they did to your family."

"I know perfectly well what happened to my kin an' I don't want nopony ta meet the same end. Not for a lost cause."

"Stop it!" Screamed Sweetie Bell. She and Scootaloo looked very distraught to see their pseudo sisters arguing.

"Uh, excuse me, Rainbow?" Scootaloo said " the ponies in the other room are getting hungry. You didn't happen to find any food have you?"

"There's no food in the house, Shorty. They'll have to eat the apples outside."

AJ shook her head, "nope, not if I can help it. Nopony will eat that trash 'n here. Follow me."

She lead them into the kitchen and started moving the fridge with a lot of effort. Once it was pushed out of the way a trap door was revealed. "We always keep an emergency stash just in case. Short of tear'n the building down nopony can find it. Only a full grown Apple can move this here fridge."

The small cellar under the trap door held enough supplies to last the family a year. There were barrels and barrels of cider and dried apple crisps that lined the walls. There was a large sack of apple seeds in the corner. Rainbow was impressed to find two kegs of gun powder tucked next to an empty gun rack.

"This place is awesome!" she exclaimed.

"Hey what are these?" Sweetie Bell pointed to a stack of papers and spy gadgets.

"Oh those 're Apple Bloom's things. I hid em here during the siege. I wanted to keep her from gett'n caught," AJ stamped her hoof, "but I plum forgot the darn chart she hung in her room.When the Guard overran Big Mac they found it and..." She could not finish the statement.

She regained her bearing and said, "ya'll can do what ya like with that. I'll get these cider barrels ready. They should be nicely aged by now."

"Hey Rainbow Dash!" Gilda called from above, "looks like everypony who's going to come is here already. Get your rainbow flank up here!"

"Duty calls," Rainbow sighed and flew up to meet her revolutionaries.

A Revolution Arises

The living room was packed with ponies of a kinds. From young to old, unicorn to pegasus, rich to poor they were gathered to witness the start of a revolution. The cider barrels were tapped and soon everypony had some in hoof. When everypony was refreshed Rainbow Dash rose above the crowd to get their attention.

[Rainbow Dash]
The time is here
Right here, the magic flows through our manes
And yet beware...
Don't let the cider dull your brains
For the enemy we fight is a dangerous foe
The power of three princesses tough to beat
If we're not careful they will cut us down like flies
We must have an edge before in battle we meet
We need a sign
That we won't fight alone
Other ponies will come
And our forces combine

It's time for us all
To decide what we are
Will we cower in fear
And abandon our brethren now?
Can we stand as one
And chose our own future?
Will we idly wait
For a coming savior?
The colors of the land
Can change
By your hoof...
Blue- The world free as the sky
Black- The storm to wipe the old
Blue- The justice brought to bear
Black- The night through which we'll hold

[Applejack]
Had ya been here back then
Ya might no how it feels
To see yer kin struck down
When she's younger than ten
Had ya paid attention
Ya might have truly known
The division you caused
All throughout the nation
By turning friends to foes
And breaking loved ones hearts
Blue- The tears for loved ones lost
Black-The pit of endless grief
Blue- The squeeze of hangmare's rope
Black- The darkness of prison

[Rainbow]
Applejack, I know how you must feel
I have my share of regrets too
But I just cannot change the past
Change won't come if we sit idle
Look at these lives so horrible
How long do you think this should last?

[All]
Blue- The world free as the sky
Black- The storm to wipe the old
Blue- The justice brought to bear
Black- The night through which we'll hold

Applejack stormed out the door in frustration. Fluttershy rushed after to try to comfort her, but stopped dead just outside. Awestruck she poked her head back in and said, "you should probably see this."

She wasn't even heard as Rainbow started issuing orders to find any working gun they can. She divided the present ponies into search parties.

"Excuse me!" Fluttershy 'yelled.'

Nopony paid attention as they began to search the house. She tried desperately to get their attention.

Suddenly Scootaloo called, "Everypony look, the Mare in the Moon is gone." Sure enough the the bright moon was missing its face.

[Rainbow]
Luna escaped
I knew it! This is the hour of fate
She has returned...
Above is the sign we await
At dawn Celestia's Celebration begins
Before the Princess's eyes we will launch our surprise
We will take town hall and barricade us within
We will hold down the fort until Luna arrives
The time is here!
Let us welcome it gladly with courage and cheer
Let us us free all this land with no doubt in our hearts

[All]
With a united front
We'll bring justice to all!
She will come when we call!

The newly inspired Republicans went back to work double time. Parties were sent to gather arms and reinforcements. Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell ran off with Apple Bloom's gear and a couple of their old classmates. Rainbow was a little ticked that they weren't doing something useful, but she let it all slide. Fluttershy went out to find Applejack. Pinkie Pie tossed ideas for booby traps with Gilda of all things. It seems their common cause allowed Gilda to at least tolerate the crazy mare.

The preparations were halted when a flash of a teleporting unicorn engulfed the room. Everypony took defensive stances as Twilight Sparkle shook away the dizziness of her spell. The purple alicorn was immensely tired. Bags had formed under her eyes and her mane had a few hairs out of place. She had spent the entire train ride meticulously planning her strategy. Now she must choose her words carefully if the first phase is to succeed.

Before she could speak, Rainbow pounced on her and pinned her wings down. With a snarl the pegasus demanded, "What are you doing here Egghead?"

Twilight tried her hardest not to roll her eyes at the poor attempt at an insult. She quickly teleported out of Rainbow's grip and gave a soft smile, " I'm here to apologize and to offer whatever help I can."

"Pfft, Yeah like I'm going to buy that. I bet your just here to spy on us."

That would be a safe bet, "don't be silly, if I wanted to spy on you why would I show up myself? You already know me." Twilight scratched the ground nervously. "Look I understand why you don't trust me. I wouldn't either in your position., but I am telling the truth when I say I'm sorry about what I've done to you, to all of you and I want to make it up in any way I can."

Rainbow raised an eyebrow, "what exactly made you change your mind?"

Twilight let loose a single tear, "As you might know my last talk the Applejack and Rarity did not end well. Ever since then I had been looking over my actions. And.. they were right. I have changed and not for the better. I want things to be the way they were. I want us to fight side by side with you once again. For the good of Equestria."

The faces of the ponies around Twilight softened. "What about Celestia?" asked her greatest military rival.

She took a deep breath, "Celestia's rule has gone on long enough. She can no longer be the guardian of harmony. That task belongs the the ponies of Equestria."

The room was dead silent for a while. Pinkie Pie gasped, "All my bestest friends are all on the same team! Best day ever!!" She jumped up and hugged her two friends. "Applejack is going to be so happy!"

"Hold on a minute," shouted Gilda. The griffon tore Pinkie off the princess and gave a suspicious look to her. "how can we trust what your saying? I want to see proof before we start throwing her welcome to the Republic parties."

"Aw that was totally what I was about to do," Pinkie pouted.

Twilight knew this question would come up eventually, " I'm the one who released Luna." The collection of ponies gasped. "Nopony knows the magical workings of the moon and stars like me. With the proper books It was easy to release Luna from her prison. The two sisters are fighting as we speak." Gilda still didn't look convinced. "If you don't believe me, I wouldn't blame you, but I do have something I can do. With Celestia engaged the raising of the sun tomorrow falls to me. So I will not raise the sun tomorrow."

Pinkie's eyes, "You can do that?"

"Of... course?"

Rainbow jumped at the proposal, "Twilight, if you ruin Celestia's little holiday and keep gett'n us the low down on those imperials. I will not only forgive you but I will personally award you the Rainbow Dash Medal of Awesomeness."

Twilight saluted, "it will be done. I have to go now. They will be expecting me at the castle."

"Twi' hold it a sec," Rainbow spit on her hoof, "We work together now. Spit on it."

Pinkie bounced up and down,"Ooh, ooh, Pinkie Promise too."

Twilight froze for a moment. She knew how serious promises were to her former friends. She mentally reminded herself it wouldn't matter this time tomorrow as she went through the motions. When the Revolutionaries were satisfied Twilight teleported back to the castle. Shining Armor's guards won't be here for a few hours. Twilight decided to steal a some sleep. After all, the next day was going to be perfect if things continue the way they are.

Fluttershy found Applejack up on a great hill overlooking most of Ponyville. The twinkling lights of the town made it difficult to tell where the ground and sky met. In the darkness, the desolation of Sweet Apple Acres and the neighboring farms was obscured. If she tried, Fluttershy could imagine that nothing really changed. That she was looking down of the beautiful little hamlet of Ponyville.

Applejack was not admiring the view however. Instead she was focused on a row of five tombstones resting on the crest of the hill. Soft tears formed in her eyes as she stared at the names engraved in the stone. Not wanting to bother her friend Fluttershy sat down next to the AJ and stared at the markers with her.

For a good while nothing was said. They just sat there. Still as statues. Finally AJ broke the silence, " I didn't even get to see em buried. I suppose I expected em ta die eventually. They chose their own fate. I can't fault em for that. 'Cept now Rainbow wants to do it all over again."

"She just wants things to be better. She's right about freedom and all that. Even though we all denied it, something was never... right about the way things are. It's good that other ponies are trying to stand up for themselves."

"What do you know Fluttershy? Ya spent most of the war cooped up in yer cottage. Ya didn't even speak up during the peace."

"I know and I hate that I did nothing. I mean I don't want to fight but I shouldn't have just let ponies down just because I was scared. If I was more assertive I could have made a difference. Um, you know, I think you feel the same way."

"Are ya call'n me a coward?" Applejack snapped.

"N-No I don't think your a coward... but I think you do."

"What do ya mean?"

"Well, I'm not sure exactly but I think you blame yourself for what happened."

"It was Twilight who was responsible."

"That's not true and your not responsible either."

"Then who is responsible?!"

"I- I don't know. All I know is nopony's happy, not even Pinkie Pie. I know that all this has to stop and if that means we have to have another war then I am not going to hide from it this time. Even if I can't do much...or if I... die. At least I would have tried."

Applejack returned to a pensive state. Could the most frightened pony in Equestria be growing a spine. If she can overcome her fears then why can't Applejack. AJ thought of what Big Mac would say. He wasn't very talkative, but that stallion had quite the head on his shoulders. He would often spout metaphors about jumping and parachutes and stuff like that. Sometimes she wondered if he inspired half of Apple Bloom's cutie mark schemes.

Applejack smiled at those fond memories, "Thanks Fluttershy. Could ya leave me alone fer a while. I mean to gather my thoughts."

Fluttershy nodded and got up to leave.

Author's Note

This chapter was fun to write towards the end. Blue and Black was all over the place in creation. Do you have any idea how hard it is to find positive interpretations of black. I hope you enjoy it. Please like, comment, and critique.

Interlude (One Day More)

Applejack wanders through her orchards deep in thought. Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell are in their old clubhouse inspecting Apple Bloom's various spy gizmos. In Canterlot, Celestia stands above her defeated sister. With tears in her eyes she prepared to carry out Luna's final punishment. Rainbow's revolutionaries are stockpiling weapons and ammo. On the train to Ponyville, Colonel Shining Armor briefs his troops.

[Applejack]
One day more.
Then this story will end in tragedy
Foolishly waiting for the cavalry
Can I throw myself in their war
Believe in what their fighting for
One day more...

[Sweetie Belle]
I will never forget Apple Bloom
Her work will not be left for granted

One day more...

[Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo]
We are more than any assume
Together we're stronger than horses

[Celestia]
One more day before the end

[Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo]
You will always be with us

[Celestia]
One more day for the Republic

[Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo]
We will make our freedom ring

[Celestia]
The good of all I must defend

[Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo]
Do you hear the ponies sing?

[Celestia]
With your death they will find peace

[Rainbow]
One more day of slavery

[Applejack]
Will I sit on the sidelines?

[Rainbow]
We will rise and take our freedom

[Applejack]
Should I join them before they're lost

[Rainbow]
In the name of liberty

[Applejack]
How much will this freedom cost?

[Rainbow]
Will you take your place with me?

[All]
The time is now
The day is here!

Applejack smiles with determination and begins running back to the farmhouse.

[Applejack]
One day more!

[Shining Armor]
One more day to revolution
We will nip it in the bud
We'll be ready for these rebels
The streets will run with their blood

[Applejack]
One day more!

[Discord]
Get yourself a drink
Pop a bag of corn
This chaos is so good
Why its better than an opera
Here a dilemma
There some sorocide
If it can get better
I just can't decide

Applejack burst through the door of her old home. She grabbed a length of rope and Big Mac's blunderbuss and stormed upstairs to Rainbow Dash.

[Republicans]
One day to a new beginning
Raise the flag of freedom high
We will stand on equal ground
(We will stand on equal ground)
There's anew world for the winning
(There's a new world to be won)
Do you hear the ponies sing?

[Applejack]
My place is here,
I fight with ya'll

Rainbow smiled,"Then your gonna need this." She took an old stetson hat out of a saddlebag and tossed it to AJ. "I kept it safe for ya." Applejack was so happy she squeezed Rainbow's air out in a massive hug. Pinkie and Fluttershy immediately joined them.

[Rainbow, Applejack, Pinkie, and Fluttershy]
One day more

(All voices interjecting one another)

[Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle]
I will not forget Apple Bloom
Her work will not be left for granted
We are more than any assume
Together were stronger than horses

[Celestia]
One more day before the end
One more day for the republic

[Shining Armor]
We will join my sister promptly
She will have a master plan
We will crush Luna's uprising
They will have nowhere to run

[Applejack]
One day more

[Discord]
Grab yourself a drink
Pop a bag of corn
This chaos is so good
Why it's better than chocolate rain

[Shining Armor]
One more day to revolution
We will nip it in the bud
We'll be ready for these rebels

[Applejack]
Tomorrow we will meet our fate

[Celestia and Applejack]
Tomorrow is the judgment day

[All]
Tomorrow we will see
The return of harmony
One more dawn...
One more day..
One day more..

Author's Note

Sorry this part has such a different style and is so short. I really wanted to add One Day More into this story. Unfortunately, the song has so many interjections and separate parts that the only way I could write it was in a script format. The next chapter will be back to the old style. Have a good day.

PS: before you guys bug me on censoring the word that rhymes with corn. I personally find that word rather dirty so I refuse to use it. Besides I think its funnier this way.

Call to Arms

The train finally pulled in to the station.Twilight hated it when things were late. Especially now when timing was crucial. Shining trotted out of the first car and gave his sister a hug. They may have been on duty, but there was always time for a hug in this family. Twilight really needed it anyway.

Over 2,000 soldiers followed their commander out the train and formed up in front of the train station. Twilight looked over her army. Each guard was fully armed with a bayoneted musket in hoof. The artillery ponies were already unloading their cannons and AP guns. The magic wielding unicorn companies stood at the ready with saddlebags full of potions both beneficial and harmful. The officers faced their princess one by one reporting all present and accounted for. But there was one company visibly absent. She turned to her brother, "Shiny, where are the Wonderbolts?"

Armor knit his eyebrows, "You mean they haven't arrived already?"

"No." Twilight groaned, "They are necessary for the battle, Shiny. They're the only ones who can keep up with Rainbow Dash. Without them she can easily take out our bomber pegasi."

"I honestly don't know why they haven't come."

Right on queue a single pegasus in Wonderbolt gear dropped in nearly giving Twilight a heart attack. "Message for Princess Twilight," the winged mare said as she offered a scroll with the Wonderbolt seal.

Twilight took the scroll and read it aloud, "Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle, We regret to inform you that our company will not be joining your campaign on the grounds of morality. A significant portion of our members, including myself, find it against their conscience to aid in attacking civilians. I know we did not complain during the last conflict but the circumstances have changed. It is with a heavy heart that I, as well as my comrades, must respectfully resign from our post. Signed, former- Commander Spitfire."
Twilight rolled up the scroll, "whats the meaning of this?" She looked up to find the Wonderbolt had disappeared. Twilight growled.

Shining Armor spoke quickly, "So whats the new plan Twiley. We don't have much time."

Twilight took a deep breath and expelled her anger. She thought for a moment,"The Wonderbolts may not be coming, but the rebels don't know that. Shiny, your familiar with Crazy Horse's victory over Colonel Custard aren't you?"

Shining Armor nodded, "divide and conquer?"

"Precisely, set the AP guns and a company of pegasi guards up along the most direct route to Cloudsdale. I will get Rainbow Dash to take her own pegasi out there to meet the Wonderbolts. Order them to blast her out of the sky. With Rainbow gone it will only be a matter of time before the other Republicans give up."

"How do you plan to do that?"

Twilight chuckled and whispered, "She actually thinks I'm on her side. All I have to do is not raise the sun and she'll believe every word I say."

Shining Armor frowned, "your playing the double agent? Are you sure that's safe?"

"I can't risk this operation in somepony else's hoofs. This is the best option I have. The only other one is a direct assault and I think we both agree we don't want another Macintosh stand."

Armor had to agree there. Taking the Macintosh Marauders down was a extremely costly. If Luna had not surrendered so soon after that. Their victory may have been a Pyrrhic one. Rainbow Dash is an even bigger threat. She may be a rash glory hound, but she has a quick eye and knows how to inspire her followers. As long as she stands the rebels will never surrender.

Satisfied Twilight began to direct the army into their position. They had less than an hour till the Celebration.

The Summer Sun Celebration had begun. Ponies from all over Ponyville were called in front of the castle by a thunderous rolling of drums. Despite the event everypony was silent and grim. They all noticed the disappearance of the Mare in the Moon and suspected what that meant. Now they just had to wait.

The Republicans scattered themselves throughout the crowd. Most wore cloaks over their heads to avoid attention. Quietly they got into position and awaited the signal. When she was sure everypony was ready Rainbow took off her hood and began to sing.

[Rainbow Dash]
Do you hear the ponies sing?
Singing the songs of angry mares
It is the music of those who've had
So much more than they can bear
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
When tomorrow comes

The Republicans all took of their cloaks and started waving the the blue banners of the Lunar Republic.

[Republicans]
Will you join in our crusade?
Who will be strong and stand with me?
Beyond the barricade
Is there a world you long to see?
Then join in the fight
That will give you the right to be free

[All]
Do you hear the ponies sing?
Singing the songs of angry mares
It is the music of those who've had
So much more than they can bear.
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
When tomorrow comes

Will you give all you can give
So that liberty can proceed
Harmony can be restored
We just need to plant the seed
Through our blood and our sweat
We'll end this oppression and greed

Do you hear the ponies sing?
Singing the songs of angry mares
It is the music of those who've had
So much more than they can bear
When the beating of your heart
Echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
When tomorrow comes.

In the span of a minute, the nervous mass of ponies found their courage. Together they marched on the doors of the castle. The ranks of guards lowered their guns toward the incoming horde, but they did not fire. Instead both sides sides stood off against each other. The crowds song of liberty grew louder and louder. The incessant stomping of hoofs actually shook the windows of nearby store fronts.

Suddenly a shot rang out. Nopony knew who fired it, but that was enough for the officers. The thunder of song was replaced by the thunder of gunpowder as the guard fired into the crowd. Mr. Cake caught his wife as she fell screaming from a gaping chest wound, "Honey Bun! No don't leave me! Why you..." In a fit of rage, Carrot Cake yanked a musket from the nearest guard and smashed the butt into his face. Others quickly joined him and the the whole square broke into melee.

The Republicans drew their own weapons and joined in. AJ blew a hole in the line with her blunderbuss and started using her hooves and lasso to great effect. Rainbow took to the air wielding a rapier in her mouth and two pistols in her fore hooves. Gilda brandished a giant longsword screaming like an eagle. Pinkie Pie started running on ponies' heads singing "go go Pinkie Pie!"

For a moment it looked like the guards would be over run. Then Colonel Armor waved his hoof and reinforcements poured out the castle and sharpshooters poked their guns out windows of the surrounding buildings. If they stayed there, the Revolutionaries would be cut down like wheat. Seeing this Rainbow grabbed a flag and yelled, "Everypony, fall back to town hall. Pegasi carry the wounded. Pinkie Pie, we're going to need a distraction. Now freedom fighters, follow me!" With that she darted off towards the old town hall.

The pegasi took to the air carrying the wounded. A couple unicorns cast some quick defensive spells as the crowd began to run out of the square. Applejack did everything she could to get them out, "grab what ammo ya can and git outta here! Come on Mr Cake you gotta go." AJ pried him off the body of Mrs. cake just in time to avoid a bullet to the head. By the time she got him going two more shots narrowly missed her, "Hey Pinkie, hurry up with that diversion already. We can't stay here much longer."

"Just a second!" Pinkie called she was digging through her mane looking for something. After dodging another bullet with her little tail twitch, she finally produced her 'distraction,' an energy drink.

Applejack's eyes widened, " oh horse apples! Every pony get outta here now." She beat a hasty retreat as the pink mare guzzled down the caffeinated drink.

It started with a little shaking. Then as the caffeine got to her brain Pinkie exploded into a great pink pinball. She bounced around the courtyard near the speed of light. Anypony caught in her path was sent flying by a force akin to a freight train. Seeing the danger Shining Armor ordered his troops to back off. They had done their job. Now time was on their side.

The town hall was not in good condition. After Twilight's transformation, the mayor's office became less and less relevant and after the Revolution the position was eliminated entirely. Now the building was abandoned, another ghost of the past. It was the perfect place to make a stand. It and the surrounding building were sturdy enough to withstand conventional attacks and the hall itself was enchanted to reduce the damage of magic attacks.

Rainbow burst through the doors an quickly checked the building for hostiles. The other pegasi followed her. Once the building was clear Rainbow approached Fluttershy and asked if she's ok.

"Um, I'm fine just a little scared."

"Fluttershy, I won't ask you to fight, but do you think you can set up a little clinic in here? There's going to be quite a few wounded."

"I-I can try." The yellow pegasus looked faint.

"You can always leave ok," Rainbow said quietly.

"No, no I want to do this. I'll do what I can."

"Great! Now for the rest of you. I need everything not bolted down in here and the surrounding buildings in the courtyard We need to build this barricade as strong as possible."

The ponies got to work dumping everything they could out the window and stacking them in a ring around the hall. They were soon joined by the earth and unicorn ponies. Applejack was the last to arrive.

"Did everypony get out?"

Applejack panted, "Most of em. Snipers got a few."

"Where is Pinkie Pie?"

She was answered by a giggling pink streak zooming in and crashing into the wall. "That was so MUCH FUN!!" screamed Pinkie before she collapsed into a deep slumber.

The two mares laughed. "Ya gave Pinkie a sports drink?" AJ inquired with a smile.

Rainbow shrugged, "guilty as charged. Alright lets get back to work. I want our defenses ready in a hour at least"

"Can do."

Anything that could be moved was added to the barricade. Carts were tipped over. Cobblestones were pried up and stacked. Chairs, tables, clocks, even a giant stereo were added to the pile. Holes were cut for muskets to aim through. The unicorns joined their magics to create a protective dome over them. Not as strong as Shining Armor's but it should keep out most projectiles.

At last the second Republican Revolution had begun. All the pieces were set and the first move was made. Now all they had to do was wait. After all time was on their side.

Author's Note

So it begins. Hope you enjoyed this chapter. Once again please like, comment, and critique to your hearts content.

Twilight's Betrayal

Hours crept by slowly. The Revolutionaries had done everything they could think of to prepare for the inevitable assault. Using whatever they could to secure Town Hall and the surrounding area. They stockpiled whatever food and ammo they could. Shortly after the barricade was up Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell showed up with a couple of their old classmates. When Rainbow grilled them over their absence during the Celebration, they said they were gathering intel.

The barricade was a impressive sight. It was over two ponies high and reinforced with packed dirt. Booby traps and gun ports lined the wall of wreckage. The windows of the town hall were boarded up and converted into sniper roosts. Up the flag pole atop the building the blue flag of of the republic flew defiantly.

Rainbow paced through the air anxiously. She kept a constant vigil for anypony approaching, but as time passed by nopony came. The streets were just empty. She groaned, "What's taking them so long? They had the advantage at the castle. Why haven't they pressed it? Shinning Armor was always over cautious but he wasn't an idiot. The longer he waits the more likely help will come for us. Its only a matter of time before Luna defeats Celestia. She did it before."

"Maybe that egghead friend of yours is keeping up her end after all," offered Gilda.

"I hope so, but I want to get some action already. Waiting is boring."

"It ain't that bad," said AJ, "Fluttershy and I have had plenty of work tend'n the wounded in there. Luckily none of em died yet."

Rainbow conceded on that point and went back to pacing. Suddenly she spotted something in the corner of her eye. Down the street a cloaked figure creeping down the street towards the barricade. The figure darted from one poor hiding place to another. Whoever it was didn't want to be seen. "Hey! Who goes there!" Rainbow called out.

The figure froze, hesitated, then removed her hood. Twilight glanced back up the street, "quickly! Let me in before somepony sees me. Shiny has plenty of scouts watching this place."

The Republicans shifted a bookshelf that they used as a gate. The alicorn rushed in and was met with a giant hug from Pinkie. "I knew you weren't lying Twilight. Nopony ever breaks a pinkie promise."

Rainbow raised a eyebrow, "I thought you were passed out Pinks."

"I woke up."

The pegasus just shook her head. "Come on Twilight. We'll talk inside."

Twilight analyzed the defenses as they went inside. From her calculations the number of rebels holed up in here were about 400 or 500 total. Most of the rioters must have scattered when the fighting escalated. The barricade seemed strong,but the dome shield was very weak. None of the present unicorns were used to such advanced magic. That worked perfectly into her plan.

Over the thorough analysis, Twilight wore a facade of concern and worry. She was completely confident in her deception. She even held it together when she saw Applejack working on a big pot of stew.

Applejack gaped then smiled, "well I'll be a Timber Wolf's grandma. Ya came to yer senses after all. Thank goodness."

"My senses have never been more clear, but we don't have time to socialize. We have an emergency."

"Twilight!" Fluttershy interrupted with a hug. All her other friends joined in and they all snuggled each other.

"This is so great! All of us are back together again," said Pinkie.

Twilight cleared her throat, "girls we have a problem."

"What is it sugar cube?"

Twilight spoke up so everypony could hear, "everypony listen up. Right now the Wonderbolts are enroute from Cloudsdale to bomb the barricade." The crowd collectively gasped. The magic dome could probably handle small arms fire but not a full fledged bomb run.

Twilight continued, "There's still time to intercept them Rainbow. If any pony can defeat the Wonderbolts in a dogfight it's you."

The mare in question sprung into action, "Alright, I'll need all our best flyers for this. Applejack I need you to lead the others while im gone. Gilda I want you on my wing. We need to load up fast guys. What direction are they coming in from Twilight?"

"Their coming straight from Cloudsdale. If you hurry you can meet them right outside of Ponyville. Don't worry about AP guns. I told Shining Armor to place them on the Canterlot flight path. That should be-"

"LIAR!" The attention of the room shifted to Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell. Both wore hurt looks on their faces. "She's lying. She's trying to lead you into a trap."

"What are you talking about?" exclaimed Twilight.

Scootaloo procured a stack of pictures from a saddlebag, "The AP guns are set up toward Cloudsdale. Right where she suggested you engage the Wonderbolts. They aren't even coming anyway."

Rainbow took the pictures and looked over them. "Gilda," She barked.

Twilight shuttered as the griffons massive claws gripped the scruff of her neck and lifted her off her hooves. She was starting to get desperate, "Wait! no! That's impossible. Colonel Armor must have-"

"Stop lying!" Sweetie Belle demanded, "You gave those orders yourself." She took a small tape recorder out of the bag and played it.

"Precisely, set up the AP guns and a company of pegasi guards up along the most direct route to Cloudsdale. I will get Rainbow Dash to take her own pegasi out there to meet the Wonderbolts. Order them to blast her out of the sky."

"Where did you get that?" growled Twilight. She looked ready to pounce on the young mares.

They smiled, "That's easy. We're CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS SUPER SECRET AGENTS."

Twilight rolled her eyes, "Should've known all of you would be in on it."

Rainbow cut in, "Gilda, lock this spy in one of the offices, Somepony put a disabling spell on her horn. We hold her until Luna arrives. She will decide you fate Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight burst out into maniacal laughter, "you still haven't figured it out yet? Luna is dead. Your little rebellion was over before it even began."

Rainbow looked like she was slapped in the face. "No! Your lying again!"

"Don't believe me if you wish." Twilight activated her magic. Before Gilda could respond she was levitated and thrown across the room slamming against a wall.

"Twilight," Fluttershy peeped.

"I tried to give you all a chance to surrender peacefully. I tried to relieve you of Rainbow's foalishness. But now I see that you cannot be reformed."

Twilight unclasped her cloak and drew a cocked pistol out. Fluttershy squeaked a little louder, " Twilight, please stop.

Twilight took an authoritative tone, "by the power invested in me I sentence you all to death. Starting with you 24601." She lowered her pistol at the orange mare.

As she pulled the trigger her aim was obstructed by a yellow figure yelling, "Stop!!" BANG!

Fluttershy fell to the floor clutching a ugly red hole in her chest. Twilight dropped the gun in shock. Applejack and Rainbow Dash rushed to their friend's aid. They applied pressure on the wound while Pinkie Pie, whose mane had deflated like a balloon, whipped out a roll of bandages.

Fluttershy was breathing irregularly, but she was still alive. When her bleeding was stopped Applejack stood up and fixed her hat. The Apple stepped in front of the fallen pegasus and stared at Twilight with piercing green eyes, "Alright Twilight. Ya want a fight Ah'll give ya a fight."

She whipped out Big Mac's blunderbuss from its place on her back and blasted it. Twilight snapped back into reality and threw up a magic shield, stopping the pellets in midair. "Time to end this, traitor."

Twilight shot a series of magical blasts. AJ weaved through them and tried to land a swift buck, but Twilight teleported just in time. The alicorn took to the air. In a strafing run she rapidly fired her magic. Applejack broke into a gallop to a avoid the fire.

Meanwhile Gilda woke up with rage in her eyes. Before she could charge that little dweeb Rainbow Dash held her back. The cyan pegasus shook her head, "This is AJ's fight. Get everypony outside or upstairs. Make sure Fluttershy is alright."

Applejack finally managed to take cover behind a column. She took her lasso in mouth and hopped back out in the open. Twilight was coming back round for another run. With perfect accuracy, AJ roped the princess and yanked her down. "Git dern her," she said through her teeth.

The sudden force was too much for Twilight and she came crashing down head first. Her horn embedded in the wood floor. Quick as a jackrabbit AJ jumped on her and started hogtying her wings down. Before the cowpony could get to the legs Twilight pulled her horn free and tossed AJ off the same way she did with Gilda.

Applejack spun the air and jumped off the wall back toward Twilight, "Look at yerself Twi. Can't ya see what ya've become?"

Twilight dodged AJ and jabbed with her horn. The orange mare was forced back. "Don't presume to judge me. I am doing my duty as the element of magic."

The two mares circled each other, looking for an opening. "And that duty includes killing fillies and lock'n up old friends?"

Twilight stabbed with her horn again, but AJ ducked under it and swept her fore hooves out the same way she took down Prince Blueblood. However Twilight teleported again before the earth pony could buck her. "For the good of Equestria yes and I don't regret any of it."

Applejack charged Twilight, dodging a few more magic blasts. "What good? Everypony is miserable! Including y'all. Half of Ponyvillle is starv'n n' the streets of Canterlot are run by gangs. Do ya have any idea how desperate I was before Rarity found me?"

Both mares reared up and began striking each other with their fore hooves. Twilight used her magic to counter Applejack's amazing strength. "Are there no guards? Are there no public houses? There are programs to provide for the poor. You have no excuse."

"We don't need no programs. All those pencil pushers and guards did was push me around and care for nopony but themselves. It ain't any government's job to be kind and giv'n for ponies."

Twilight blew Applejack away with a flash of of her horn. "What do you know about politics farm girl?"

Twilight went back to ranged combat. AJ did everything she could to escape the barrage. "I know that Rarity did more to raise the spirits of those ponies than yer programs ever did."

"Oh forgive me for being to busy trying to keep harmony in a country full of Republicans. So long as your kind exist there will never be harmony."

Applejack finally managed to duck under the magic blasts and scoop up her blunderbuss. She brought the butt around and swung it like a club. "Quit fool'n yer self Twi. Ya can't bring harmony ta anypony."

Twilight parried with and energy sabre. However her magic faltered a little under AJ's accusation. "What are you talking about?"

Applejack pressed her makeshift club into Twilight's magic, slowly overwhelming it. "Yer the traitor Twilight. You betrayed us all. You tried to have Rainbow murdered. You alienated all yer friends and made us yer enemies. Ya watched my sister sister hang, shot my brother, stole my home away, and left me to rot in the mines. Why? Because I loved and supported my family instead of you."

"That's not true!" Tears were coming from Twilight's eyes.

"To top it all off you've lied. Not just to us but to yerself. You keep saying yer defending harmony, but yer actions have made you an enemy of harmony. Yer blinding loyalty to Celestia has turned ya into a monster. A cruel, selfish, miserable, dishonorable monster. just as bad as Nightmare Moon."

"SHUT UP!" Twilight forced Applejack away and entered into a magic surge. Her eyes glowed as all her anger, confusion, and hate overwhelmed her. With barely a conscious thought, she directed all that energy towards Applejack. A beam of magic launched from her horn with a roar. There was no dodging this so Applejack just planted her hooves into the ground and braced herself.

Twilight hadn't used this much power since the Tirek incident. The blast engulfed Applejack and tore through the wall and barricade behind her. The vibrations were felt all over Ponyville. Yet when the beam dissipated, Applejack remained unscratched. In fact she seemed to be glowing softly. Even her stetson and blunderbuss were untouched by the attack that should have vaporized them on the spot.

Twilight on the other hoof lay on the floor exhausted. Her horn sparked with the last bit of magic in her system. AJ approached the alicorn and pinned her down. She shook her head, "Yer all out Twilight. This is over."

Twilight groaned, "just kill me already. Take your revenge for Luna. For Fluttershy. For your family. I know that's what you want to do."

"Yer right I do wanna kill you," Applejack raised a hoof and Twilight flinched in expectation. However, instead of a death blow she felt the rope tying her wings down loosen. Twilight opened her eyes in surprise. She quickly got up on shaky hooves. She turned towards Applejack to thank her, but the orange mare's glare stopped her.

"Let me make this crystal clear to ya," AJ said with a disproving tone, "Yer dead to me. What you've done is beyond my forgiveness. Ya don't deserve to be called the Princess of Friendship and ya definitely don't deserve to be called anypony's friend. Git outta here and tell Celestia that so long as we draw breath, we will continue to fight until everypony in Equestria is free. If ya have a lick of sense ya'll never show yer face in this town again. Now git."

Twilight's eyes watered with real tears, "Applejack, I'm sorry"

"I said git!" Applejack yelled. Twilight ran out the hole in the wall as fast as she could. As soon as she cleared the barricade, she opened her wings and flew off toward the castle.

Author's Note

This chapter was a blast. Finally we have our epic duel between AJ and Twilight. No song this time. I felt that the dialog would be more appropriate than a reprise of The Confrontation or something. Hope you enjoyed. Like, comment, critique, do whatever you want.

Aftershocks

The Republicans immediately got to work repairing the barricade after Twilight left. However, Their work had less zeal than before. Though they managed to get it done, there was no cheering or banner waving. Instead they just tapped the cider barrels and started eating what will probably be their last meal.

Applejack went upstairs to where Fluttershy lay on a cot of hay. The sleeping mare was tended by Ms. Cheerilee. Nervously AJ asked, "Is she gonna be alright?"

The schoolteacher hung her head, "I don't know Applejack. I'm a teacher not a doctor. Some of the vets helped me get the ball out, but other than that... I can't believe its happening again."

The mares hugged each other like sisters. AJ noticed she still wore the bow Big Mac gave her. She had forgotten Mac proposed before he left for the war. They all planned to have a big wedding once it was over, but it never happened. Just another thing Twilight and Celestia took away.

"I've been wanting to ask you? What was he like... you know when he..."

AJ thought for a moment, "he died like he lived. Quiet as a mouse."

Cheerilee smiled a bit, "I never thought... well I didn't think a lot of things would happen. It seems like yesterday the Crusaders slipped that love potion in our punch... I guess I'll be seeing him again soon and Apple Bloom too."

Applejack wiped Cherilee's tears, "Some day we will, but it ain't gonna be today."

"But, without Princess Luna-"

"Nopony is here because of Luna or Rainbow Dash or any one pony. We're fighting for something much bigger." Applejack pointed to Mr Cake curled up next to a column. His now motherless foals were snoozing next to him. They both wore red capes around their necks. Just like the ones Apple Bloom and her friends used to wear. "These young'uns deserve a chance to chose their own destiny for a change. That freedom ain't gonna come on its own. Soon enough others will realize this and they will come."

"I hope your right."

Applejack sighed as Cheerilee went back to Fluttershy, "So do I."

"Hey AJ! Over here," Rainbow called from a corner leaning on a cider barrel. Gilda, Scootaloo, Sweetie Bell, and a still deflated Pinkie Pie were with her. They all held a mug in hoof, or claw it Gilda's case.

Applejack joined them and filled her own glass of cider. "What should we drink ta?"

Rainbow swirled her cider, "I don't know. Let's just sit here and drink."

[Sweetie Bell]
Drink with me to days gone by
Sing with me the songs we knew

[Scootaloo]
Here's to all of the memories we share

[Gilda]
Here's to all the adventures we have dared

[All]
Here's to them and here's to you

[Pinkie]
Drink with me to days gone by
Can it be you fear to die?
Will the world remember you
When you fall?
Could it be your death
Means nothing at all?
Is your life just one more lie?

[All]
Drink with me to days gone by
To the life that used to be
At the shrine of friendship, never say die
Let the well of friendship never run dry
Here's to you and here's to me

[Rainbow]
Drink to our friend Fluttershy
She needs all our strength tonight
She's weak and we have
No doctor at all
Would you weep,Equestria
Should she fall
Would you weep, Ponies
for her

Twilight burst into the throne room in tears. The truth in Applejack's words hurt a lot. It was so difficult to accept it, but Twilight knew she couldn't just close her eyes and make it go away. The flood gates have been opened.

She collapsed in the middle of the throne room surrounded by the dusty thrones of her friends. Their cutie marks, immortalized in crystal, staring down at her like omniscient eyes peering into her soul. Into her guilt.

Shining Armor entered the room with a pair of guards at his side. When he saw his sister crying he immediately ran to her side,"Twiley, are you alright?" He turned to his escorts and ordered them, "Leave us." The gold plated ponies obliged.

"Talk to me Twilight. what's the matter?"

Twilight sniffled,"I can't keep doing this. I- It hurts too much."

Shining gave Twilight a supportive hug, "Shhh, It's okay Twiley. It'll be over soon. Celestia will be here soon and we will never have to hear about the Lunar Republic ever again."

"Wh- What?" Twilight asked.

"We just received word a few minutes ago. Celestia's bringing a thousand troops with her from Canterlot. She plans to arrive at dawn. We just need to soften those rebels up for her."

"What?!"

Shining was a little confused, "It means we've won. I thought you'd be happy about this. Are you okay Twiley?

"Yes... no. I don't know. It's just... They're all there Shiny. Rainbow, Pinkie Pie, Rarity's sister, even...Fluttershy" Another wave of guilt overcame Twilight. The pressure was too much to bear. She looked her BBBFF in the eye, "I can't hurt them anymore. I've already done too much and I don't think I can just sit by and let them die either."

"What about Celestia. We owe her our obedience."

"I know! I know! I can't betray Celestia either."

"Is there anything I can do?"

Twilight eyed the pistol holstered to Shining Armor's side, "give me your gun."

"What?!"

"Shiny, give me your gun."

The look on his sisters face told Shining Armor exactly what she was planning. "Twiley, whatever your thinking-"

"Oh for pete's sake!" Twilight snatched the pistol in her magic and threw Shining Armor out the door. She slammed the double doors shut and lowered the cross bar. Nopony is going to stop her.

[Twilight]
What is this guilt
That has taken over me
Have I been blind all this time
And only now do I see
Have I become the monster
That everypony now fears
Am I the one
Who has brought them all to tears
All I wanted
Was things back to the old
Now they tell me
My heart has turned hard and cold

Damned if I force Equestria to kneel
Damned if I defy Celestia's law
I am a princess, I must play the part
But the elements chose the other side
There is no way that I can be both
It is either Celestia or my friends

All this land's spit apart
Is the monarchy dead?
Will they respect a Princess?
Should these ponies be freed?

And must I now begin to doubt
Who never doubted all these years
If all I have done is justified
or if the good I have known is lost in shadow
Was it for good or for evil?
How should I know?
But after what she said today
I can't continue either way

I am hoping in despair
But the path is naught but dark
There is no way I can choose
Without leaving all I know
I refuse to make a choice
Between one or another
There is nowhere else to turn
There is no way to go on

Twilight cocked the hammer back. She raised the barrel to her chin. She closed her eyes and pulled the trigger.

Author's Note

Two songs to make for none last time. I honestly didn't think I would do Drink With Me until the last chapter exceeded the 2,000 word mark. The first part is really just some filler mixed with a couple more feels for the Apples. As I expected, the Suicide was fun to write. In my opinion it is the one of the best written so far. please comment, like, critique.

Choices and Prayers

Click! "NO! No, no, no!" Twilight screamed. She threw the weapon across the room in frustration. It scraped across the floor and settled against the far wall. Twilight screamed again and buried her face in her hooves. She cried.

For hours she lay there unmoving. Her sobs were desperately alone in that room. Not a single other sound penetrated the massive room. Not Shining Armor's calls to his sister nor even the faintest of breezes. It was just crying echoing through the chamber. Horribly, terribly alone.

[Twilight]
There's a grief that must be spoken
There's a pain goes on and on
Empty thrones in an empty castle
Now my friends have left and gone

Here they spoke of a Republic
With such passion in their hearts
They sang of us united
But I split us apart

We were once as close as sisters
Best friends till the very end
We would stand as one together
I can see them now
Their happy faces full of joy
Has melted into sorrow
Because I betrayed their trust again

Oh my friends, my friends forgive me
That I've done you so much wrong
It's a grief that must be spoken
It's a pain goes on and on

Phantom laughter in the hallway
Phantom smiles at the door
Empty thrones in an empty castle
Where my friends will meet no more

Oh my fiends, my friends, I'm sorry
For what I've done before
Empty thrones in an empty castle
Where my friends will sing no more

Twilight's lament was interrupted by enthusiastic clapping. She looked up to find Discord sitting in a theater seat applauding her. Discord took a munch of his popcorn and fazed over to the alicorn, "bravo Twilight. You really had me tearing up there. The drama of the sympathetic antagonist coming to grips with her morals. Then ultimately choosing to commit suicide. Oh, I'm still geeking out about it. Although, you could have been more creative than using a gun. I mean come on! That's almost as cliche as jumping off a bridge."

Twilight turned her back to the draconicus, "leave me alone Discord. I'm not in the mood for your games."

Discord popped in front of Twilight and lifted her chin up, "hey there, I'm just here as a friend who's curious why you want to kill yourself."

Twilight looked suspicious,"don't think I will let you stop me."

"Oh by no means. Go ahead," Discord tossed the pistol to Twilight's feet, "I just want to know why."

"If you've been paying attention you would know why. There's a damn revolution on! Everypony I ever loved is out there ready to kill each other and I'm caught in the middle," Twilight was out of tears. So she just buried her face again.

Discord pulled his goatee thoughtfully, "I see. So instead of choosing a team to play on your just going to forfeit the game entirely."

Twilight kept her face in her fore legs, "I don't have a choice. They're all dead any way. With Celestia coming the Republican's will be annihilated. There's nothing I can do either way."

"That's where your wrong my dear Ms. Sparkle. There is always a choice," Discord snapped his fingers and a door appeared opposite the entrance to the throne room, "That door will take you to Canterlot. Where I'm certain you will find exactly what the Republicans need. Or you can go out the front door to join Celestia. Together you two can finish what you've started ten years ago."

Twilight's head was spinning, "What? No I'm not going to pick a side. I can't take any more betrayal." She screamed in frustration.

Discord picked up the pistol and paced it in Twilight's hooves, "there is always the easy way out. I'm sure it will work this time."

Twilight contemplated the weapon once again. She muttered, "I just can't choose."

Discord shrugged, "Very well, but before I go I have just one more thing. You once told a friend that choosing not to choose is not really an option. Does that still hold true or have you really changed that much?" Discord faded into oblivion, letting his last words sink in.

Twilight remained quiet. The castle joined her in silence. The only solitary sound in the empty throne room was the cocking back of a hammer.

Everypony fell asleep hours ago. Applejack volunteered to keep the watch outside on the balcony. It wasn't like she could sleep anyway. There was way too much on her mind. No matter how hard she tried to focus she couldn't. Everything that happened in the past few days was finally coming down on her. She couldn't hold it back anymore. She had to let it out. She had to cry. After checking that she was alone, Applejack lowered the brim of her hat over her eyes and finally gave in.

Once she began she couldn't stop. Her body was shaking with grief. She wept for her family. She wept for Fluttershy. She wept for Luna, Rainbow Dash and everypony who would probably soon be dead. She even wept for Twilight, but if there was one she wept for the most it was-.

"Applejack?" Speak of the devil. Sweetie Bell was standing at the doors rubbing her eyes. "Are you okay?"

Applejack sniffed back her tears and wiped them from her face. "I'm alright. Just lett'n loose a little. What're you doin' up Sweetie? Bad dreams?"

The unicorn nodded. The mares looked out into the slumbering city. "It's so quiet," Sweetie Bell observed.

"The calm before the storm. I've seen it before."

Sweetie Bell turned AJ and asked, "We aren't going to die are we?"

"Maybe, but as sure as my folks are watch'n us up there I will protect you as best I can," Applejack promised. They hugged each other warmly. For a moment Applejack felt like a sister again. That thought warmed her heart.

The pair stayed outside gazing into the stars. After some time, Sweetie Bell yawned and curled up against Applejack. The orange mare stroked her mane until she was asleep. Applejack kept her eyes to the sky. She locked onto a small constellation of 5 stars that seemed to form an apple shape.

[Applejack]
Stars above
Hear me now
In my need
Y'all have always been there
She is young
She's afraid
Let her rest
Heaven blessed
Bring her home
Bring her home
Bring her home
She's like my sis from long ago
And she has a sis of her own
If rebels die
One by one
The world will move
On and on
Let her survive
Help her move on
Bring her peace
Bring her joy
She is young
She's only a foal
Ya'll can take
Ya'll can give
Let her be
Let her live
If I die let me die
Let her live
Bring her home
Bring her home
Bring her home

The constellation twinkled and one of the stars fell across the sky. Applejack followed it to the horizon. She guessed that meant they heard her.

Then something caught the corner of her eye. The glistening of metal in the moonlight. She perked ears to the all too familiar sound of hooves marching in unison. The guard is attacking. The battle has begun.

Author's Note

Special shout out to PyrinThePyro and Emperor Artemis who requested Empty Chairs and Bring Him Home respectively.

I know some people will not like me sparing Twilight, at least so far. I debated long and hard whether I should. But staying true to the original would dramatically change my story for the worse. It all come down to what themes I'm going for. Hope you enjoy it. Now for the climax.

Storming the Barricade

Shining Armor was beyond worried for his sister. There was no doubt from the tone of her voice what her intent was. He tried everything he could think of to get in that throne room but it was no use. No force short of an Alicorn could overcome the magic guarding it. The Colonel didn't have time to wait for Celestia. So he ordered one of his staff officers to guard the door and report to him if anything happens.

Colonel Armor spent the next couple hours setting his troops up for the assault. He took the liberty of recalling the AP guns and pegasi he dispatched towards Cloudsdale. He wanted to be extra sure to be ready for anything. You could never be too careful.

When the Royal Guard finally marched on town hall the rebels swarmed outside like a colony of multicolored ants. They took cover behind a hastily constructed fortification of random junk. It would be decent enough cover against small arms, but the artillery could make short work of it. That is once their shield is down. Shining Armor studied the magic field as it encased town hall. It was no where near as strong as his, but he knew it would withstand his bombers and cannon for a while. He will need to either pound it till it breaks or get a demo team inside it. Of course there is always the negotiation route.

Shining approached the barricade and called to them, "Republicans! You are surrounded and outnumbered. Surrender now and only your ring leaders will be punished."

Rainbow Dash shot into the air, " Fat chance Shiny! We'll gladly accept your surrender though."

"You cannot win. Princess Luna is dead and if you don't surrender now you will join her."

"Ha you think that will stop us. You got another thing coming. You may have killed Luna and you may kill us too, but I assure you more will rise in our place. They will rise and rise again until all of Equestria is free."

"You may never back down Rainbow, but what about your loyal followers? Are they willing to throw their lives away for a lost cause? All of you in there if you want to survive just lower then shield and give up Rainbow Dash and her co-conspirators immediately."

Shining smiled to himself when he heard heated voices behind the wall. He normally wasn't one for mind games, that was Twilight's cup of tea, but anything that reduces casualties was fine with him. His smug smile vanished when the voices changed to the worst thing he could have imagined, singing.

[Republicans]
Do you here the ponies sing?
Singing the songs of angry mares
It is the music of those who've had
So much more than they can bear
When the beating of your heart
echoes the beating of the drums
There is a life about to start
when tomorrow comes

Very well then. "Artillery! Fire at will." Colonel Armor went to the rear of his forces to command his troops.

The artillery kept pounding the shield for ten minutes straight. Miraculously it held. Applejack didn't think the unicorns had it in them to make another.

The veteran snipers up in the town hall began to pick off the artillery crew from afar. That had to be close to two hundred yards at least. AJ had to admit those ponies had some skill. Colonel Armor must have noticed the danger his guns were in because the infantry were starting to advance.

"All right! Now the real fight can begin," exclaimed Rainbow, "Alright guys hold your fire till you see the whites of their eyes." The Republicans below her readied their weapons. Muskets, long rifles, pistols, crossbows, and a party cannon bristled out of gun ports like angry porcupine spikes. Applejack herself took cover behind a barrel atop the barricade.

She kept an eye on Sweetie Bell hiding behind an overturned pool table with Scootaloo. The unicorn held a pistol in her magic. Several of Apple Bloom's gadgets were strapped to her body with a bandolier. Applejack made a mental note to never leave her out of sight.

The guard fired and advanced, sending volley after volley of magic and metal into the shield. Most of them were stopped, but a few ripped through and slammed into the barricade. "Hold it!" ordered Rainbow.

The guard broke into a charge with bayonets lowered. They slammed into the magic field. The sheer momentum pushing it back. "Unicorns on my mark raise the shield one and a half ponies high. When they come through open fire."

The shield strained against the mass of ponies. After a minute the magic started to buckle. "Now!" Rainbow yelled. The shield was lifted and everypony fired into the horde of guards.

Applejack quickly reloaded as the enemy tried to regain their footing. She managed to get another shot off before the guard returned fire and charged again. AJ swung out her lasso and roped one of the guard's muskets. She gave it a quick tug and the weapon flew up towards her. She jumped up and kicked the butt of the gun, driving the bayonet into its previous owner's chest.

Ponies all over the barricade were working to repel the attackers. Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo tossed various grenades into the crowd. Some simply exploded, some released some sort out gas that made everypony laugh uncontrollably, and some scattered caltrops on the ground. "Where did Apple Bloom get those things?" Applejack wondered.

Rainbow Dash was a mutli-colored streak of death. No matter how hard the guards tried they couldn't get a hold of her. Her strafing runs left dozens with a nasty gash from her rapier or a bullet in their eye. The other pegasi followed her lead, engaging on hit and run attacks and reinforcing any sectors being overrun. Gilda on the other hoof just dove right in the middle of the fight. Her giant claymore decapitated somepony with every swing. With out any sense of fear she waded into the enemy ranks.

Despite their best efforts the guards were starting to overwhelm the battlements. Applejack barely dodged a unicorn who tried to blast her in the back while she was handling another pony. She gave her current opponent a whack with her blunderbuss then bucked that unicorn off the barricade. "Pinkie Pie! Git yer rear into gear and start them booby traps already," she called.

The party pony zoomed up with a bloody hacksaw in hoof, "Patience AJ. There is a trick to any good prank."

Applejack ducked under a bayonet and gave its owner a nasty uppercut. "Pinkie, I don't wanna kn-"

"TIMING!" Pinkie took out a remote big red button and pressed it. The barricade erupted into an orchestra of cartoon sound effects. Boxing gloves, boots, and fireworks sprang out of cupboards. Piles of junk fell upon the guards climbing up. soapy water poured out of sink faucets that shouldn't have been attached to water. To top it all off confetti popped into the air, giving the display a little Pinkie Pie touch.

The guard was definitely taken aback by Pinkie's prank, but they kept advancing. "What!? They still want more?," Pinkie Pie asked. Applejack wasn't sure who she was talking to exactly. "That's it! Time to break out the party cannon." She took out the cannon and fired wildly into the enemy.

One of her cannon balls just barely missed Gilda's head. The griffon roared and flew up to their place on the barricade. She yelled angrily, "Hey Pinkie Pie! Tone down the freaking firestorm already. Your nearly got me killed."

Pinkie gasped, "Tone it it down? Never! I have a party cannon you humorless bird! AHAHAHA!" The pink mare went right back her rapid fire destruction.

Gilda rolled her eyes, "Screw this! I've got imperials to kill." She flew off to the other end of the barricade.

Applejack returned her attention to the enemy. Suddenly she noticed something strange. A ways down the barricade there was a ring of unicorns deflecting incoming projectiles. They weren't advancing or attacking any pony. It seemed like they were protecting something. Applejack fought her way closer. Squinting her eyes she could make out a robed unicorn hiding in the middle of the ring. She seemed to be concentrating on some task.

The fur on the back of AJ's neck stood on end. A sinking feeling invaded her stomach. She called Rainbow Dash over. The pegasus dropped out of the sky, "Whats up?"

Applejack shot another guard and pointed out the spell caster. "They're up to someth'n," she said.

Rainbow's normal confident smile washed away. "You know I think your right." The pegasus shot into the air and surveyed the battlefield. The guards had taken five sections of the barricade equidistant from each other. in the center of each of these breaches was a unicorn magician. Rainbow was puzzled at first. Then it dawned on her. "Oh my gosh! They're gonna break the shield! Applejack, kill her. Kill her now." She zoomed towards one of the other unicorns with the same intent.

Applejack moved as fast as she could, weaving between the combatants, but it was too late. Five beams of energy shot into the sky. The shield shattered like glass. Shining Armor didn't waste a second. The thunder of his artillery soundeded all over Ponyville. "Every pony take cover," screamed Applejack.

The cannon fire smashed the barricade. Applejack managed to avoid the shrapnel by diving behind a cart. She caught her breath and analyzed the damage. She gasped when she saw Sweetie Bell was stuck on the barricade with Scootaloo. The young mares were unloading everything they had into the enemy. "Git outta there you two."

Sweetie Bell faced Applejack, "I can't. Scootaloo's hurt."

"Horse Apples," Applejack swore. She ran out of her cover and jumped up to them. Scootaloo's backside was riddled with splinters of wood, but she was still conscious. AJ pulled her onto her back. "Come on."

They jumped off just as another wave of cannon balls destroyed the barricade. The blast pushed them into a tumble. In an effort to protect her passenger, Applejack extended her legs to break their fall. Her back right hoof snapped under the weight. She grit her teeth through the pain and ran three legged through the doors with Sweetie Bell.

Applejack gingerly put Scootaloo down and gasped the sight. The little mare got another dose shrapnel on her back. A piece of wood the size of her head stuck out of her back. Her dead eyes stared at the farm pony. Sweetie Bell cried, "Scootaloo? No! Not you too!"

Applejack struggled to fight back the tears. She limped over to the door. What she saw outside was even worse. The barricade was in ruins. Without their cover the Republican's were fighting a losing battle. The guards formed a battleline and fired upon them. The ground was littered with bodies. In the sky, Rainbow and the other flyers barely held their own against the battle fresh pegasi of the empire. But the worst thing of all was the sun rising in the distance. Celestia has arrived.

Author's Note

Hooray for action. I hope you enjoyed this. Please like and comment. Only 3 or 4 chapters to go.

Redemption

Twilight made her choice. She stepped through the door Discord had conjured. She found herself in her Canterlot quarters. Spike was sleeping right where she left him. However, almost nothing else in the room was how she left it. Her drawers and wardrobes were opened and rifled through, her books were thrown from their shelves in a pile on the floor, and the doors were wide open with a pair of guards laying unconscious on the floor.

Twilight shook Spike awake with her magic, "Spike, Spike wake up!"

The dragon groaned, "Twilight? What's going on?"

"Somepony got in-" Crash!

A voice cursed from inside her closet. Twilight dropped into a defensive stance. She lit her horn and opened the closet door. A brown earth pony with an hour glass cutie mark was searching through her clothes. "Come on. There has to be a bloody key in here some where..." Twilight cleared her throat and he looked up. "Oh its you," he said venomously.

Twilight blinked, "do I know you?" The pony did look familiar. She couldn't quite put her hoof on it.

The stallion held an accusing look, "No, but I certainly know who you are, Twilight Snootle. Your the one threw my wife in prison and forced little Dinky to grow up without her mother. Do you have any clue what I had to put up with just to get her some decent meals? Nooo, because you we're too busy arresting my bloody rescuer!"

It suddenly dawned on her, "Your that pony Applejack was helping the other night."

"Well whoop- dee doo Princess Snootle, you finally bothered to remembered one of us 'common ponies,''" he gave her a mocking bow, "now if you will stand aside I have a mare to save."

One day ago Twilight would have arrested him for that insult. Instead she hung her head in shame. How could she have been so blind? It wasn't the war or democracy that was threatening her subjects. It was her. Ten years of pushing Equestria toward the light and this was the result. A scared, desperate pony trying in vain to bring those he loves together again. How many more ponies had she and Celestia hurt all these years? She was too afraid to count.

"I'm sorry. I truly am." She stared at the at the angry stallion before her. Suddenly, she realized what she must do, "but I will make it up to you."

She went back into the bedroom and approached an unassuming section wall. She used her magic to open a secret drawer. The visitor raised his eyebrows when she took out her master key. "Why are you doing this," he asked.

"Yeah," Spike cut in, " On top of that, What's this about Applejack arrested? How did this pony get in here? Why is there a door in the middle of the room? And... have you been crying?"

"We don't have much time to explain Spike. Our friends need our help. Get the combat gear immediately... oh, and fetch me some ink and paper I have a letter to write." Spike obliged and Twilight started off her letter. She glanced at her guest who still wore a questioning look. The princess sighed and explained herself

[Twilight]
This pony is in need
He needs a second glance
If I want to change
This one could be my chance

Can I be forgiven?
How can I right these wrongs?
When my heart has been shut
unopened for so long

If I help, I am a condemned
If I don't change, I am damned

I am Celestia's faithful student
She's always looked to me
How can I abandon her?
How can she live?
If I'm not at her side

If I leave, she is condemned
If I stay, I am damned

Twilight rolled up her letter and placed it neatly on her bed. The three of them armed themselves and moved toward the mines. Thankfully most of the guards already left for Ponyville. Only a skeleton crew was left behind. They galloped unchallenged to the mine entrance.

Who am I?
Can I leave these ponies in agony?
Pretend I am fighting for harmony
And force them all to show us love
When they clearly have had enough
Who am I?
Can I ever live with myself again?
Are the wounds I have made too deep to mend?
This guilt I have consumes my soul
My own conscience has paid its toll
Will you hear?
Will you hear when I ask for forgiveness?
Even though I don't deserve such kindness
I've hurt so many of you I know
I should have realized long ago
I've done so much that I regret
There is no way I can forget

Who am I? Who am I?

[Spike]
Your Twilight Sparkle?

Twilight shed a single tear, "I'm not really sure anymore."

Spike scratched his head, "Well, How can you not be Twilight? You've got the same mane, same eyes, and same cutie mark."

"I'm talking about my actions Spike. Tell me honestly has anything I've done in the past decade been friendly."

"That's easy you..." Spike paused. He desprately searched his memory for an example, "I know! You released Applejack."

"Yeah, I released her with the mark of a traitor and forced her to beg on the streets," Twilight said sarcastically, "not to mention I just tried to kill her a few hours ago."

"What!? So you tried to kill Applejack, tried to arrest Applejack, Luna has apparently been released from the moon, your helping an earth pony bust his revolutionary wife out of jail, and Celestia has taken the entire Royal Guard to Ponyville to squash the Republic once and for all. Is there anything else I should know?"

Twilight nodded, "Luna's been executed, I threw Rarity in prison, and... shot Fluttershy."

Spike's jaw dropped, "how long was I asleep?"

"Ahem," interrupted their third party member, "I don't mean to interrupt, but we're here." Twilight used her key to open the iron gate. The earth pony rushed in to be met met with a pair of bayonets.

"Halt! Who goes there?" one of the guards asked.

Twilight stepped in,"stand down. Now take us to the warden. I have something to discuss with her." They went down to the warden's office. Twilight noticed that nopony was working below. The prisoners were all packed into their barred sleeping cells. The few remaining guards patrolled the main chamber keeping them all quiet.

They found the warden snoozing at her desk. Twilight coughed and the warden shot out of her chair, "Princess Twilight what are you doing here? If it's about the gemstones I'm working on it. It's just some of the prisoners are... well, whining."

"Madame Warden, I need you to give me your keys. I am releasing the prisoners."

"What! But your highness they're Republicans. Why do you want to free them?"

"I made a mistake and now I'm fixing it. Now give me your keys and if you know what's good for you, you and your guards will get out immediately." Twilight lit her horn to make her point. The warden gave her the keys and scrambled out the door followed by the pair who escorted them there.

Twilight grabbed the keys in her magic, "which ones do you want Mr... uh"

"Doctor, Doctor Whooves. Um, are the cell doors deadlocked?"

"No, only the entrance is."

"Fantastic!" The doctor whipped out a small metal wand and charged out of the office yelling, "Avante!"

"That was weird," commented Spike, "Does this mean we didn't need the warden's keys at all?"

Twilight shrugged and galloped out after him. She and Spike saw to telling the remaining guards to leave while Doctor Whooves released the prisoners with his wand or screwdriver as he called it. At every cell the stallion asked, "Is Derpy in there? Has anypony seen Derpy?"

After about a dozen attempts he was finally given an answer, "Doctor?"

"Derpy? Derpy is that you?" The couple embraced each other through the bars. "Oh Derpy, I thought I would never see you again. I missed you so much. Lets get you out of here." He opened the door and they embraced a second time. Derpy buried her face in her husband's shoulder and cried tears of joy.

Twilight had just warned the last guard to leave when Rarity approached her. "What are you doing Twilight?"

"I'm freeing you."

"That wasn't what I meant," Rarity responded. Her fellow prisoners formed a circle around the princess. Hatred and pain burned in their eyes. They wanted an explanation. The whole explanation

"We don't have time for this," Twilight offered, "Rainbow Dash is in trouble. She needs our help."

Rarity shook her head, "We can't just forgive you like that. Explain yourself, then we will decide if your trustworthy."

Twilight sighed. She told them everything. Everything she did over the past few days came pouring out of her. Her talk with Celestia, the trap she set for Rainbow, her fight with AJ, and above all the painful realization of how wrong she was. She had no idea if her confession was meant to help her case or diminish it. She didn't know if anypony would believe a word she said, but she didn't care. For the first time in forever, she was going to be honest.

[Twilight]
You see everypony
You you know it's true
I bear much more guilt than you
Who am I?
24601

Author's Note

Wow. Now I know how the show writers feel about writing Spike. It was almost impossible to fit him into the parts he was present in and sometimes I just forgot him entirely. Yes, Dr. Whooves is a character in this. No, there will not be any show references aside from his sonic screw driver. BTW, the voices I imagine for him and Derpy are from the Dr Whooves and Assistant series. Hope you enjoyed it. Only two chapters to go.

Last Stand

Rainbow Dash was moving at top speed. Every where she turned her ponies were being overwhelmed, nay decimated. She did everything she could to relieve them, but not even she could be everywhere at once.

She was exhausted. Her muscles felt like they were on fire. Her heart was pounding like a hammer in her chest. If she was getting tired she could only imagine how the others felt.

She dove into a squad of pegasi guards, taking on five at once. In the corner of her eye she could see a gilded chariot coming out of the rising sun and another train pulling into the station. She cut down the last guard and gave a closer look. The chariot pulled up next to Twilight's castle where Colonel Armor obviously set up his headquarters. What caught Rainbow's eye was the vehicle's two occupants, Celestia and Cadence. "So they're all here. Great! Now we're all doomed."

Rainbow racked her mind, searching desperately for inspiration. There had to be some way to turn this around. Rainbow Dash never believed in a no win situation and she didn't plan on starting today. She was sure she could find a way, but first she needed to save her troops. She dove down to them and shouted, "The barricade is lost. Everypony get back inside town hall now!"

The Republicans made a break for the doors. A few of the braver and stronger ones tried to drag some of the wounded in. Rainbow's heart skipped a beat when most of them were rewarded with a bullet in their backside. When she saw Gilda and Pinkie she almost couldn't believe her eyes. Both had gone absolutely berserk. They stood back to back atop a sizable mound bodies and spent party gags hacking and slashing away at their opponents. Rainbow had to practically ram them to get them out of their blood rage and send them back inside.

Rainbow hovered just above the doorway. Most of those still standing were inside. However, there were still several small pockets of Republicans fighting desperately for their lives. They were cut off and surrounded, unable to flee and unable to be rescued. She wanted to help them, but there was no time. The wave of guards were closing in on the doors. She zoomed inside and closed the doors behind her.

Applejack limped over to her, "I don't think we've got much more fight in us Rainbow. I hope ya've gotta plan." The blue pegasus scanned the tattered remains of her army. Most were injured. They had run out of medical supplies. Some of the worst ones were simply put of their misery. The dead were stacked unceremoniously along the walls to provide some extra cover. Her eye caught the bloody corpse of Scootaloo amongst them. She had to fight back her tears at the sight. She didn't have time to cry.

Rainbow's head was still working at lightning speed. She considered every option, every trick she knew to get them out of this jam. finally she settled on one desperate, suicidal plan.

"We've got to cut off the head of the snake. I'm attacking the princesses head on."

"That ain't much of a plan, Rainbow. Shining Armor will see ya comin' real quick and I'm sure he'll put everyth'n he's got between you and her." They heard the bang of a ram against the door.

"It's the only chance we got," Rainbow leapt into the air to address her troops one more time, "I need any fliers who can still fight with me. I need you to clear the skies for a sonic rainboom. Short of the elements it is the most powerful magic I know. It just might be enough to overpower the Alicorns.The rest of you hold up in here and defend it as long as possible. We can still win this fight. For Luna! For Equestria! For Freedom! Let's finish this."

With a roaring battle cry, the fliers followed Rainbow as she bust a hole in the roof. The others cheered from below; daring to hope for the hopeless. One pink pony's cheering was interrupted by a fit of uncontrollable shaking. Whatever this was coming to, it was going to be a doozy.

Sure enough as soon as Rainbow left town hall dozens of pegasi swarmed the air to meet her. She drew her rapier and set her sights on her target. The two princesses standing at the castle gates. Now she had to get through these guards, AP guns, and Shining Armor. Piece of cake.

She broke into a barrel roll and swiped half a squadron flying a her in a v formation. She glanced to her left to find Gilda took out the other half simultaneously. She smiled at her friend. They had their ups and downs, particularly after Rainbow moved to Ponyville, but there was never another flier who could match Rainbow's flight patterns so perfectly. The pair spearheaded the counter offensive. They danced around each other in practiced precision. None who engaged them lasted very long. One rather stupid orange, blue-maned pegasus actually ordered them to halt. "Hold it right there. You are outmatched. Surrender now and-" His terms were cut short by Gilda's longsword bashing his skull in.

The other Republicans were doing well too. They lost only one of theirs for every 3 guards, but they were out numbered 5 to one. The numbers just didn't add up. As they pushed forward their numbers started to dwindle. There was almost a collective sigh of relief when the pegasi guard started to back off. Then they heard the AP guns.

Rainbow stopped just in time to avoid the concussive blast of a shell. The rest of her fliers weren't so lucky. The AP guns stuck true to their name a took out a third of them in one go. Rainbow had to move fast to avoid another volley. "Everypony get into tornado positions," she ordered.

The all saluted and began to fly in counter-clockwise circles. With the exception of Gilda, who tasked herself to keep the guards away. In no time at all a decent little tornado was blowing apart the artillery. Guards on the ground scattered. Colonel Armor quickly put up a shield over his headquarters to protect the princesses and his troops from the windstorm.

Once the cannons were dealt with the Republicans broke up the twister and hovered just outside Shining Armor's shield. Rainbow bucked the force field, "Come on out your highnies. Face me like a pegasus."

Celestia stared calmly at the revolutionaries, "Rainbow Dash! I know you have grievances against me, but I implore you surrender now and let the bloodshed end. I've already lost my sister to this foolishness. I do not want to lose my element bearers as well."

"It's too late for diplomacy, Celestia. If your not coming out then I'm going in after you." With that, she began to climb. Her air force was close on her tail, keeping the pegasi guard off her. Rainbow continued to climb until the city below her looked like a cluster of ant hills.

Satisfied, she dove for the shield. The wind whipped through her mane as she reached mach speeds. She could feel the power building up in her. The rainbow magic crawled up her body. The energy felt like a rubber band getting tight around her body. At the precise moment Rainbow made contact the shield it was all released in an explosion of color.

The sonic rainboom smashed through the magic field and blew everypony off their hooves. Rainbow didn't stop there. Propelled by her magic explosion, she charged right for Celestia. The alicorn barely managed to parry the rapier approaching at light speed. Still Rainbow didn't let up. She pressed her pressed her attack with blinding speed. Not even Celestia was able to keep up. Eventually the sword found its mark in her leg. The princess stumbled.

Before Rainbow could deal the final blow. Cadence blasted her back with a spell. She twisted in the air and landed on her feet. Princess Cadence and Shining Armor stood in front of the wounded Celestia. The couple lowered their horns in a duelist's stance. Rainbow grit her teeth. She could feel the rainbow energy starting to fade. She couldn't take all three of them alone. Fortunately, she wasn't alone.

Gilda dropped down next to Rainbow Dash, followed by the other Republicans. Rainbow smirked, "You with me on this Gilda?"

"Like ya even need to ask," The griffin pointed her claymore at Shining Armor, "I call the egghead's brother."

"Awesome! the rest of you keep the noponies off our back." She was answered with universal nods.

Rainbow leapt for Cadence and the two crossed horn and sword. Rainbow pressed her attack probing for a weakness in her defense. Cadence may have been an alicorn, but she was clearly inexperienced with combat. It would not take long till she made a mistake.

Meanwhile Gilda and Shining Armor fighting like a cat and a dog. Armor could barely fire a shot off before she tackled him. Latching her claw around his forelegs she tried to drag him into the sky. She barely got him more than a few feet off the ground when he flipped up and locked her head in his rear legs. Sword and magic were forgotten as they tumbled onto the ground. They traded kicks, scratches, and bites. Neither could gain the upper hoof.

Suddenly, Cadence cried out in pain. Rainbow finally broke through her physical and magical defenses and ran the princess through. The pegasus held a victorious grin, but it quickly faded with the light in her opponent's eyes.

Shining Armor detangled from Gilda just in time to see his wife fall to the ground. "No!" he screamed. He levitated Gilda's discarded longsword and thrust it into her.

The rival generals began to circle one another. "Just you and me eh Shiny?"

"First my sister. Now my wife. You are going to die Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow glanced down at Gilda's body, "We've both lost friends and family in this fight, Shiny. Now it all ends here. Let's make it one for the history books."

"So be it." Shining Armor horn shot off a magical blast.

Rainbow jumped over it and spun in for a slash. Armor blocked it with his horn. He shifted his stance and struck with a roundhouse kick. Rainbow easily dodged it.

Back and forth they sparred. Shining Armor kept the defensive, using his magic to his advantage. Rainbow stuck with her tried and true speed and acrobatics. Armor had his years of training in the Royal Guard. Rainbow possessed a natural fighting talent and knowledge of every trick in the Wonderbolt arsenal plus some of her own moves. Neither combatant was willing to yield nor showed any signs of tiring. It seemed like the duel would last forever.

But Rainbow did not have forever. Every second she spent fighting was one more second of her troops fighting a losing battle.She had to end this now. She would have to make a gamble. The pegasus shot into the air and looped around. She accelerated as fast as she could, nearing sonic rainboom speeds. At the last possible second she performed a little aileron roll, her rapier swung around Armor's guard and stabbing him right below his shoulder blade. The sword went directly through his heart, killing him instantly. Rainbow won, but at a cost.

She could feel the momentum leave her body when Shining's horn went into her gut. She pushed the officer off and gripped her bleeding stomach. She struggled to remain on her hooves. She looked at the bodies before her. One princess and one unicorn down. Now who am I forgetting. A beam of yellow magic knocked her down. Oh horse apples!

Celestia towered over the blue mare. Her wound was now healed and she looked as regal as ever. She looked down upon her foe, "you have fought well Rainbow Dash. None would ever doubt your bravery, but now you are beaten. I am giving you one last chance my little pony. Surrender and be forgiven."

Rainbow tried to push herself back up, "I will NOT bow to you." She fell back down. Her vision was becoming blurry. She felt light headed. She wanted desperately to rest, but she can't now. She is Rainbow Dash. Nothing can beat her.

"Very well then," Celestia said solemnly, "I really wish this didn't have to end this way... Tell my sister I love her very much."

Author's Note

This took longer to write than expected. Battle scenes are fun but they need to be choreographed just so. I do hope you enjoyed this. Like comment, critique you know the drill.

A True, True Friend

Celestia's deadly spell was interrupted by the pop of gunpowder behind her. She yelped in pain as a couple bullets lodged into her backside. She spun around to face this new attacker. Her face paled in horror when she saw an army of ponies clad in midnight blue armor storming out the castle gates. The column slammed into the royal guard's flank. Celestia's confidence in victory shattered as her troops fell before the Republicans.

Rainbow chuckled painfully,The cavalry has finally arrived. Late as usual. "I think you can tell her yourself, your highness."

The princess didn't seem to hear her. She lowered horn and fired upon the Republican's battle line. Before the beam could make contact unicorns summoned a shield reflecting it into the atmosphere. The shield was immediately dropped and the pegasi leaped through the air. With Derpy Hooves at the lead they sliced through the guards and continued towards Celestia. Rainbow's remaining pegasi joined them, attacking the princess from behind.

Celestia's eyes darted around in panic. Her steadfast guard had turned tail and ran. She was now completely surrounded and wounded. At this point the princess could only retreat. She turned to Rainbow Dash, "This is not over." In a flash of light Celestia disappeared, teleported back to Canterlot.

Rainbow smiled, "Bout time you guys got here. Derpy, take the troops and cut a path to town hall as quick as you can. They need reinforcements ASAP."

The wall-eyed mare saluted, "Will do." The Republicans pressed forward. The battle weary and leaderless Royal Guard fled for their lives.

Behind the armor clad warriors, a bunch of civilians followed. They tended to the wounded with the castle's entire medical supply. Rarity was among them. She noticed Rainbow and galloped up to her, "Oh my, are you alright Rainbow Dash?"

Rainbow coughed, "Just bleeding on the ground waiting to die. You?" Rarity smiled at the sarcasm. She got to work healing Rainbow's wound. "Let's see if I remember anatomy right. That's your intestine... Your ribcage... where's does all this blood keep coming from? This will completely ruin my coat won't it?"

"Ow! Rarity do you think you can let somepony else do this?"

"Nonsense, it is only a flesh wound. I can handle it."

"Ah!! Merciful Luna! Rarity, I fought two flipping alicorns today. If I die by your sewing needle, so help me, I rise from the grave and eat your brain!"

"Um,on second thought you may need somepony with more expertise. Twilight can you help me out here?"

"What!?" Rainbow almost jumped to her hooves, "don't tell me that lying scumbag is still here."

"Well yes, she was the one who released us from the mines and got us back here in time."

"And you trusted her? Do you have any idea what she did?"

"Yes I know and no I don't trust her. At least not completely." Twilight approached them. Rainbow noticed her wings were locked in a brace and her horn glowed with the blue hue of a magic lock. She didn't look the pegasus in the eye. Her face was still wrought with her guilt.

"Rainbow? Oh my gosh not you too!" Spike ran up from behind Twilight. He locked Rainbow's head in a bear hug, crying a river.

"I'm fine Spike. I just need some bandages," the blue mare gasped, "Spike, I can't breath."

The dragon let her go, "come on Twilight. Patch her up already."

"No. I don't want you touching me."

"Darling, either you let Twilight help or I will have to try my luck again," said Rarity.

Rainbow shuddered, "Fine, but in case you didn't notice Twilight I don't forgive you."

"I know," Twilight replied solemnly. In Twilight's hooves, Rainbow's wound was quickly fixed up.

With Rarity's help, Rainbow Dash finally got herself standing. She took a good look at her surroundings. The sounds of battle were beginning to die away. Ponyville was in ruins. Fires started in several buildings and spread unchecked for who knows how long. The ground was littered with the dead and dying. Most of the ones nearby were guards, but Rainbow was sure many of her own troops were among the casualties.

Her eye caught Applejack running on her three good legs. The farmer froze when she spotted Twilight. She gave the alicorn and angry glare, but didn't address her. "Rainbow, ya'll need to come with me. It's Fluttershy, she's tak'n a turn for the worst."

They all made for the town hall as quick as they could. Which was way longer than any of them wanted considering half of them were wounded. Upon arriving they noticed the state of the building. Smoke rose from craters in the walls and ground. The double doors were busted in with a battering ram. The survivors were already lining the bodies up in the courtyard, searching each pony for dog tags and IDs.

They all entered one by one, but Twilight was blocked by AJ. She shook her head, "What makes ya think your goin' in?"

"I want to be there for Fluttershy."

"You've already hurt those ponies enough. They don't need ya there to rub salt in. I don't know what sob story ya fed Rarity, but I sure as hell don't care. We don't want you here so why don't you just go away!"

"Please, I am begging you. Let me see the results of my mistake," Twilight cried.

"Ya'll can see them right there," AJ pointed to the lines of corpses, "All these ponies' blood is on yer hooves! Ya may have freed the old army, but you can never wash that off. Nothing you can do will redeem you! Nothing!"

Twilight lowered her head in shame, "Your right. You've always been right. Everything I fought for, everything I lived for was wrong," She looked at the farmer with tears in her eyes, "I've hurt so many ponies. Many of them I didn't even realize I was hurting. I was... am a monster. I have become the very thing I hoped to destroy long ago. The thing I thought you were... I know I can't take my sins back. I cannot resurrect Big Mac or Apple Bloom, but I implore you. Let me see Fluttershy. I can't live with myself if I don't at least tell her I'm sorry."

Applejack studied the alicorn, "Yer tellin the truth, aren't you? Fine, but this changes nothin."

Twilight thanked her and they joined the others inside. The building was now a full fledged hospital. Dozens of ponies buzzed about like bees attending the wounded. Fluttershy was still in her cot upstairs surrounded by her friends. Dr. Whooves stood next to it waving his metal wand over her body. She was unconscious, but still breathing irregularly.

Pinkie Pie struggled to stop the spasms of her pinkie sense as she tried to be serious, "Please say she's alright Doc. I mean Fluttershy can't die. She's one of my best friends in the whole wide world. She'll get better. That must be what the doozy is. Oh please oh please don't kill her Andulin. We need her."

The doctor looked up from his patient, "Oh dear this isn't good. It appears, the ball broke into fragments on impact. While the large pieces have been removed. a few slivers were missed. The metal has infected the blood stream. I'm sorry to say this, but the effects are irreversible."

Rainbow scratched her head, "Can you talk normal please?"

"Fluttershy is dying."

"No, it can't be, "exclaimed Applejack.

"I'm deeply sorry. I wish there was something I could do. I'll leave you to say your farewells."

Five of Fluttershy's closest friends gathered around in a group hug. Fluttershy moaned, but was too weak to move. Only Twilight stood apart from the group. Her mind was ablaze with calculation. There had to be a way. If there was any pony who was innocent in all this it was Fluttershy and she was dying because of Twilight. The scene before her illustrated all the princess's guilt. Twilight was determined to wash that guilt away if that was the last thing she did.

Inspiration struck Twilight like a lightning bolt. She will right this wrong and there is nothing she would not give to do so. Her heart glowed warmly as she could feel her emotions turn into energy. She stepped up to the bed and asked the others to stand back. AJ and Rainbow Dash wanted to protest, but complied when the alicorn's eye began glowing. Magic coursed through her veins like it hadn't in years. What she was casting was no spell ever seen before. The weight of her guilt and her desire for retribution manifested into something completely new.

Twilight touched Fluttershy and the magic glow spread. Soon both mares were encompassed in the blinding light. The others stood in awe.

Rainbow gave a quizzical look to Rarity, "I thought she had a magic lock on her horn?"

"She does, I assure you. This magic must be coming from somewhere else."

"Where exactly?"

"From her heart sugarcube," Applejack answered.

The light faded away and Fluttershy opened her eyes. She looked up to her friend's purple, smiling face, "oh Twilight I had the worst dream. You were angry and yelling at Applejack. I tried to stop you but you- you..."

Twilight's smile vanished, "It wasn't a dream Fluttershy. I... I was being a bad pony and I hurt you, almost killed you."

Rarity stepped forward, "You were on death's door a minute ago. Somehow, Twilight was able to save you."

"I couldn't let somepony I loved so much die because my blindness, but I know that doesn't erase what I did. Can you ever forgive me?"

Fluttershy smiled, "of course I forgive you. No matter what, I could never hate one of my friends."

"I forgive you too, Twilight," said Rarity.

Three mares hugged each other. Pinkie Pie gleefully joined in. Her mane re-inflated to its former glory. She screamed in delight, "Hooray! Fluttershy's alive! I gotta get a coming back to life party together. I mean returning from the dead. That has to be the dooziest dooze to ever d-d-doooooze," Pinkie's body convulsed in another spasm, "huh, that's weird. I was sure that this would be the doozy. What could it be?"

Rainbow Dash and Applejack glanced at each other. Both mares were unsure of how to feel. Fluttershy's revival made them happy beyond belief, but they still felt bitter towards Twilight. They were both hurt real bad by the alicorn. After so many losses and betrayals, they just couldn't bring themselves to forgive her.

Suddenly, Twilight keeled over in agony. The cheers of joy were cut short as she collapsed to the floor. Fluttershy asked worriedly, "Twilight what's wrong?"

Twilight moaned, "My spell, I think it's finishing up."

"What did ya do?" inquired AJ.

"I took Fluttershy's place. Her injuries are now mine."

Fluttershy's eyes watered, "What?! No! You can't just-"

[Twilight]
Not another word my friend
There is something that must now be said

There was a time when we were friends
When we'd stand together through thick and thin
In those years we were all happy
We had lived in real harmony
Years ago
In my blindness I threw it all away
I betrayed you all to this very day

Twilight turned to face Applejack.

Thanks to you, I opened my eyes
I have tossed aside all my lies
I give myself to right these wrongs
Now I ask of you with this song
Who am I?
Who am I?

[Applejack]
Yer a true, true friend

The farmer removed her hat and sat down next to Twililght. The others joined her. Pinkie's twitching finally stopped. She never would have guessed at Twilight's sacrifice or even more strange, Applejack's forgiveness. Even Rainbow was struggling to fight back her tears. "Darn it! How am I supposed to hold a grudge if you start acting all noble and stuff."

Twilight assumed that meant she was forgiven. She tried to sigh, but ended up in a bloody coughing fit. After she had her fill she wiped her mouth weakly, "Thank you... for saving me."

Applejack smiled, "Glad to have you back, old friend."

Twilight returned the smile. It was a real wholesome smile. The first one in over a decade. As Twilight closed her eyes one last time, she was the happiest mare in the world.

Author's Note

The song in this chapter is based on Valjean's Confession, essentially a Who Am I reprise. I hope you enjoyed this story. All I have left is a quick epilogue and final musical number. Once more, please comment, critique and like.

Epilogue: Twilight's Last Letter

Celestia materialized in her throne room in a very bad mood. She stamped the floor angrily, shattering the marble finish. She was so consumed with her frustration that she didn't notice Discord lounging on her throne thumbing his way through a book entitled Two Treatises of Government. He looked up from his book, "Hi honey, how was your day?"

Celestia scowled, "How many times do I have to tell you not to call me things like that? And get off my throne will you?"

Discord chuckled, "oof, that bad eh? Well I guess no one can blame you. Every dictator seems to fall of the deus ex machina. Your lucky yours didn't involve those mcguffins you used against me. Seriously, being a statue is the most boring thing I can possibly imagine. Oh, before I forget," The Draconicus tossed his book aside and stood up, "as president of the Equestrian League of Former Tyrants, may I be the first to welcome you to our ranks. Granted most of our members are dead, but the rest of us are a very lively bunch I assure you."

"What? How dare you? I am not and never have been a tyrant Discord and even so, I am still the ruler of this land."

Discord tugged his beard, "Really, because the ponies who escaped the mines a while ago seemed to think differently."

"Don't tell me it was you who sent those screw-eyed traitors to Ponyville."

"No of course not. All I did last night was help a little purple pony find the right door. By the way," Discord brought out a rolled up scroll, " Twilight left a message for you. I think you need to read it."

Celestia's eyes widened. When she saw the rebels storming out her Twilight's castle she assumed the worst had happened to her. Could it be she survived? The sun princess took the letter and opened it.

Dear Princess Celestia,

Last time we spoke you asked me how we can return harmony to Equestria. I had always thought it would be through our intervention and guidance, but what I realized tonight that I couldn't be more wrong. All our attempts to restore love and kindness between ponies has made them fear and hate us above all. Looking back on my actions the past few years, they are right to feel that way.

It seems you cannot force ponies to love one another. I think Luna knew this. After all, she tried the same thing when she turned into Nightmare Moon. I even recall her having that issue when I first met her all those years ago. I guess she realized what I have realized mere hours ago. Force can only bring hatred, but freedom can allow love to flourish. Don't you see Celestia? It was our hubris that brought disharmony down upon Equestria. Not Luna or Rainbow Dash or the Republicans. It is us, you, me and Cadence.

Which is why I can't let us win the battle for Ponyville. I am releasing the prisoners from the mines and taking them through the magic door Discord left. With luck, maybe they'll trust me. The odds are unfavorable. I wouldn't blame them, but I must set things right before something happens that we'll both regret. I do not know if I will see you before you read this. I do not know if you will want to see me afterwards, but let me tell you that I love you like a daughter. And I know that the rest of Equestria feels the same, even the Republicans. However, they are not your little ponies anymore. They have grown up and need to be set free. They can no longer benefit under the wing of a princess. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and the others know this. So I ask you, step down from the throne. Surrender your power and let the ponies choose their own fate. They may fail, but they may succeed beyond even your reign. Just choose quickly, if my plan succeeds it will not be long before Republicans are marching on your gates.

Your loving former student,
Twilight Sparkle

Celestia put down the letter. Discord had vanished again, leaving her alone in the throne room. A thumping noise filled the room. Celestia realized that the windows were vibrating to the steady beat. Beyond the palace walls thousands of ponies stomped their feet to a universal tune. This song echoed not just through Canterlot, but though all Equestria. From Manehattan to Rainbow Falls ponies of all kinds and creeds joined in with no doubt in their hearts.

[All]
Do you hear the ponies sing
As they march onwards to the fight
It is the music of those who will
Stand up for what is right

We can live in harmony
If you just make a simple choice
Cast off the chains of order and
Rise up with your voice

We will live again in freedom
As we stand on equal ground
Because within all our hearts
There is love that can be found
We've learned to live as one
We are no longer royal bound

Will you join in our crusade?
Who will be strong and stand with me?
Somewhere beyond the barricade
There is a world you long to see
Do you hear the ponies sing?
Say, do you hear the distant drums?
It is the future that they bring
When tomorrow comes

Author's Note

Thus ends my first ever fanfic. Thank you so much for reading. Please, tell me what you liked about the story. What didn't you like? What was your favorite song adaptation? Until next time I bid you farewell. Vive le Republique!

The Rise and Fall of a Republic

Twilight Sparkle rushed into Celestia's throne room. She wasn't surprised that the princess would summon her. She knew a sonic rainboom when she heard one. That could only mean Rainbow Dash has returned. Celestia would want that pegasus caught as soon as possible.

Celestia was not sitting on her throne. Instead she was staring at a stain glass window featuring her and Princess Luna moving the sun and moon through the sky. Twilight approached her old mentor.

"Princess Celestia, I know about the sonic rainboom. I recommend scrambling the Wonderbolts into search patterns around the areas of rainbow sightings. The guards should be put on high alert and ordered to report any sightings immediately. We-"

"Twilight Sparkle," Celestia interrupted calmly but sternly, "I have already sent the letters out. That's not why I called for you."

Twilight wore a panicked look, "oh my gosh, this isn't about Applejack is it? I know she's in the city she couldn't have gotten through my perimeter. She'll be found and brought to justice quickly."

Celestia shook her head, "I know you concerned about her, but that's not why I called you either."

"Then what is it?"

Celestia gave a sad look and pondered for a moment. It was as if she was trying to find the right words. She clearly wanted to get something off her chest. Finally she asked, "have you ever read the works of Flint Locke?"

Twilight thought for a moment,"no I don't think I have." Twilight was surprised there was a book she hasn't read.

"I thought you haven't. Most copies were destroyed centuries ago, but I keep one or two in my personal collection. Flint Locke was a brilliant but misguided young unicorn. He believed that harmony is better kept when power is shared among ponies. That ponies could and should live together by their own volition, without royal assistance. He even claimed my rule was a detriment to harmony."

"But the time before your rule was horrible. Discord literally ruled over the land. Ponies were constantly fighting each other."

"That's what I told him. Without the alicorn princesses' guidance, ponies would descend back into disharmony. Sadly, he wouldn't listen. I eventually had to banish him and destroy his work before others were tricked by his foalishness."

Twilight sighed. She'd become quite familiar with stupid, idealistic ponies in the past decade and they kept getting worse. "Why are you telling me this?"

Celestia stared at the window, "That was the last time I thought I'd hear of his madness. Then Luna returned. My sister fell in love with the idea of self government. I thought... I hoped such ideas would fade over time, but... she became insistent. She said my little ponies needed to be free from me." she sobbed and wiped her eyes. "Luna told me that I could no longer guide my subjects to harmony. That I could not love for them anymore. I still don't understand what she was thinking... Those were the last words she said to me before it all started."

Twilight remembered the events leading up to the Revolution. Princess Luna's speeches gained her cause a lot of support from the masses. However, the moon princess' attempts to reform the government were repeatedly frustrated by her sister, Cadence, and eventually Twilight. Over time, Republican's became increasingly irritated with the royals. Exchanges between Republicans and Imperialists devolved from trading words, to blows, to bullets. In hopes to end the violence, some particularly aggressive Republicans were arrested and executed. Luna responded by publishing an official constitution for the New Lunar Republic. Any pretense of peace was thrown away into all out war.

"I fear that this idea of democracy has festered into Equestria. With Rainbow Dash's apparent return we may see the rise of another rebellion. I called you here to ask you this, Twilight Sparkle. What should I do to restore our empire to the way it was? How do I return ponykind to harmony?"

Twilight was astounded. Princess Celestia never asked her for advice. She always seemed to have the answer to everything. Twilight searched her thoughts, "I don't know, but I promise no matter what that I will always be your faithful student."

A familiar laugh rang through the throne room. "You shouldn't make promises you can't keep Princess Twilight," Discord teased, "what would your friend Applejack think?" He materialized by a window portraying the the elements' victory over Nightmare Moon.

The princesses frowned at the intruder. Twilight replied, "Applejack is NOT my friend. She is a criminal and a fugitive. As soon as she's caught she's going back in the mines."

"Oh my, have you had a falling out with our dear cowpony? It's always so sad to see friendships fall apart, but it must be even more depressing for the Princess of Friendship. Don't you think so Celestia?"

The sun princess cut right to the chase, "what are you doing here Discord?"

The chaos spirit frowned, "Fine, be a party pooper. I just thought you might want to know where a certain blue pegasus might be heading."

Twilight raised an eyebrow, "How did you find that out?"

"I'm afraid I cannot disclose my source. I made a promise not to betray them. You understand of course. Any who, I have it on good account that Rainbow Dash is gathering Republicans in Ponyville . They seem quite eager to attend your Summer Sun Festival. I'm sure it will quite an explosive event."

Twilight shot into action, "We've got to move fast. I'll head down their and rally the local guards. Princess, may I request you send for Shining Armor's brigade? I will also need a team of Wonderbolts at my disposal. We can stop this rebellion before-"

"Whoa there, hold your horses" Discord interrupted pulling back on some reins he conjured around Twilight's muzzle. "Before you go rushing out the gate, I believe I have some insight for your little problem Celestia."

Celestia widened her eyes, "What might that be Discord?"

"I'm truly shocked you haven't figured it out before Tia. You aren't getting senile in your old age are you? Why do you think the Republicans plan to crash your little ego fest? They're hoping Luna will escape the moon like the last time it was in Ponyville."

Twilight furrowed her brow, "That doesn't make any sense. Nightmare Moon escaped because of an alignment in the stars that caused a magic surge that allowed her to counteract the banishment spell. The odds of another alignment so soon are near impossible."

Discord shrugged, "I didn't say Rainbow was the sharpest of ponies, but that doesn't matter. To the Republicans, today marked the return of the prodigal mare and they will rally behind her in hopes for the the second coming of Luna. They know their chosen princess is watching. As long as their the Mare in the Moon is in the sky, the fight will continue."

"Last time she was banished, my sister was forgotten. She became nothing more than a legend," Celestia pointed out.

"Believe me, no plan ever works the same way twice. That is the first rule of chaos. The second rule is to never give direct advice to Princesses so I must be off. I don't want to miss the show and I must be ready before the good stuff begins. You should get ready too. After all you are one of the main characters and you only have till the day after tomorrow. Ta ta." Discord faded away.

Twilight called after him, "wait! You didn't tell us anything." But she realized the draconicus was either long gone or didn't want to answer.

Celestia pondered Discord's words, "As long as the leaders of the Republic are here the revolution will never end. That means... oh my dear! I must..." Her tears welled back up as she found her solution. It was the last thing she ever wanted to do.

Twilight nuzzled her mentor, "We have to do it don't we. We have to end this once and for all."

Celestia nodded, "One last confrontation between night and day. Twilight, I need you in Ponyville by tomorrow. Mobilize Colonel Armor's troops and put a Wonderbolt team on stand by. They should be ready by the Celebration. In the meantime, do whatever you see fit to undermine Rainbow Dash's plans. I'll take care of Luna and will join you as soon as I can. Good luck Princess Twilight. The dawn of the Summer Sun Celebration will be the last the Lunar Republic will see."

Twilight quickly galloped off to carry out the orders. Celestia looked sadly back at the window. Canterlot's weather team had started a light rain outside. Droplets ran like tears down the alicorns' images. Celestia put a hoof on the dark blue form of Luna.

On my own
Pretending she's beside me
All alone
I'll walk with her till morning
With her gone
We laugh and play together
And when I need some help I look above
And she consoles me

In the past everything was simple
We would raise the sky together
The land would love us, their kind princesses
And all I'd see is you and me forever and forever.

And I know it's just a memory
that you chose a different path and I my own
Even though I could not set you free
Still I hoped we would make it up

I love you
but now all this is over
We are done
My subjects deserve much better
Without you
Harmony can grow unyielding
Love will spread out everywhere
And peace will live forever

I love them
But I cannot share that love
Not with you
Down here or sent up above
I must choose
Between you and my ponies
To give them back their happiness
I must give up my own

I love them
I love them
I love them
But only on my own

Author's Note

This chapter was a challenge. I had to create the philosophy for both sides while remaining sympathetic. On My own was pretty easy to write overall. Please comment, critique and like as you see fit. See y'all in Ponyville.

note: For military accuracy, I've changed Armor's division into a brigade.