Heart and Soul

Chapters

Prologue: Peace Never Lasts
Misunderstandings Lead to Hatred
The Heart is Honest
The Brain is Not

Prologue: Peace Never Lasts

One quiet morning in PonyVille, Twilight lay awake after a night absent of rest. Her eyes wide open and body tense, one thought never left her mind.

Peace can not last forever.

She knew this for a fact, she was not naive enough to think it could after reading so many history books. Especially after reading a book about the most recent war, one that took place throughout the Everfree and the Far East.

In the end Equestria suffered many casualties, then the war abruptly stopped. What truly bothered her though, was the lack of details on the war and why it so suddenly stopped. It was like a good book with an ending that left you unsatisfied, with an uncomfortable feeling in your stomach.

What happened to the great warriors of the east they spoke of? The pure blooded humans who, even with limited magic were known for their courage and ability to adapt. And how come after such an abrupt “end”, important Equestrian nobles kept disappearing and popping up dead? How come Celestia had locked herself in her room for a whole month without contacting the outside world?

Twilight hopped out of bed, careful not to wake Spike, and walked down to the main room of the library. She grabbed her robe on the way down, just in case any surprise visitors showed up. AppleJack liked to stop at her house on her way down to the Market, since they were the only two up so early every morning.

She sat at the kitchen table warming her hands on her coffee cup. Twilight wondered if Celestia would give her answers to all the questions floating around in her head. Especially as to why it ended so quickly.

Twilight was convinced Celestia pulled out for the sake of her people, not because the war ended. Also, perhaps Celestia was so upset because of some conspiracy going on in the kingdom? But to think nobles were getting killed in such strange ways, burned alive, sliced in half, hung from the gates, etc… Who could have done that without getting caught?

A loud knock on the door made Twilight jump out of her seat, she laughed at herself. That knock was Apple Jacks. She quickly fixed her hair, pulled her robe closer around herself, and went to answer the door.

“Mornin’ Twi!” AppleJack smiled. “Something wrong?”

The bookworm shook her head. “It’s nothing AJ. I have a lot on my mind is all. Quick come in, I have breakfast ready!” Twilight smiled excitedly.

The two of them walked back into the Library’s kitchen as AJ told Twilight of the new developments back at the farm. GrannySmith woke both AJ and Big Mac yelling about a fire in the west field, it took a full three hours to put it out. Luckily it hadn’t gotten to any of their apple trees, but it had caused a good amount of damage to their property.

“Geeze, I’m so glad no one was hurt. You really are awesome, putting out fires without magic!” Twilight’s eyes shined with admiration.

AppleJack blushed and waved Twilight off. “ Aw shucks Twilight, it’s nothing for the Apple family.”

The two sunk into a comfortable silence as they devoured the vegetarian meal Twilight had prepared, all meals in Equestria were vegetarian.

“So whats been on your mind? You looked mighty shaken up when I first got ere’.”

Twilight looked at Aj, surprised. “I was studying war history last night. The most recent war Equestria got involved with ended thirty years ago. Horrible things happened, and the end of the war has been bothering me. It sounds like a quick cover up for what really happened…” The girl's eyes drifted off into space.

“And? There is something else isn't there?” Aj’s voice sounded strained, like she didn't really want to know, but was too concerned for her friend to let it go.

The element of magic slowly looked back at her friend. “I think we all know peace never lasts. I have a feeling deep in my gut, something is about to start that will change the course of history forever. ”

AppleJack fell silent, and Twilight stared intently at her. She then burst out into laughter, nervous laughter. “But of course, this is all probably just me overthinking things again. Im sorry for burdening you with my thoughts, lets talk about something else.”

Aj shook her head. “No, I understand what you're saying. You haven't been wrong before, remember queen Chrysalis?”

Twilight’s smile shrank. “Yeah I do.”

The air was growing heavier as time went on. Twilight almost felt like she was being suffocated by the amount of unanswered questions floating around in her mind.

She felt a strong, warm hand grip hers. “You have also never failed to keep Equestria safe Twi, remember that. Besides, I’ll be there to protect you!” Aj puffed out her chest, then her face quickly turned red. “And everyone else will be of course!” She quickly added.

Twilight giggled before jumping up and pulling her much taller friend into a tight hug. “I am so grateful you will continue to protect me AJ, like you always have.”

“O-of course! I won't let any of us get hurt if I can help it.” Her voice shook in embarrassment.

This earned another giggle from her small friend. “Shouldn't you be at the market by now?” Twilight smirked.

AppleJack’s eyes almost popped out of her head. “Horse apples! Bye Twilight!” She quickly charged out the door, leaving Twilight to laugh at her quick exit.

That farm girl always brightened up her mood, and made her more determined to find the answers she desired.

________________________________________________________________________

Celestia gazed up at the blue sky and the sun she rose every morning. The birds chirped, her guards made their rounds, devoutly protecting their princess. Her sister slept soundly inside the castle, and there was no sign of war. Everything felt perfect, felt serene.

She felt as if this could last forever, this moment.

“Leave me be my faithful knights, I will be fine on my own.” Celestia’s voice filled with a warmth and kindness you could behold in no other being. Her guards bowed, and respectfully took their leave, golden armor clanking as they marched away from her.

The garden was as lively as ever. Birds fed their young, foxes ran here and there, squirrels feasted on their nuts and berries. They all lived in perfect harmony, something you wouldn't see anywhere else but here, except for Fluttershy’s cottage.

An unknown amount of time later, Celestia noticed something strange starting to happen, all the animals were running off into their hiding spots.

She could feel the fear they felt, but what was it they feared?

“Celestia.”

The princess froze, this voice dripped with hatred, with killing intent. It was something she thought she wouldn't have to hear again, not for a long time anyway.

“Face me you coward.” The voice growled.

Celestia turned around and quickly entered a defensive stance, ready to cast a spell at a moments notice. “Who are you and what do you want with me?” Her eyes narrowed at the figure in front of her.

He was wearing a cloak around his body, the only thing she could clearly make out were the handles of two swords hanging at his right side.

‘An assassin?”

“I am here to serve Justice’s purpose, to make sure no sinner goes unpunished. And you Celestia, are one I can never forgive. What I am trying to say is, I am here to take your life princess.”

Misunderstandings Lead to Hatred

Luna woke and drew her sword, cutting straight through her blankets. She hopped out of bed and scanned her surroundings.

It was just a nightmare.

She wiped her face with a wet towel, and walked out onto the balcony overlooking the garden. Though she preferred the darkness of the night, the day held a beauty all its own. Her and Celestia’s creations were breathtaking.

It was all so peaceful, except for the sounds of terrified animals running around.

Luna stared at a frantic fox and remembered how Celestia liked to go walk in the garden early in the mornings, alone, and immediately grabbed her sword and flew down into that very garden.

She had a gut feeling her sister was in danger.

“Celestia! Where are you?! Sister dearest!” She charged through the garden, not caring if she ruined this plant or that. Then she heard voices, one belonged to Celestia, the other to some man she did not know.

He sounded dangerous.

Luna let anger swell up within her and drive her to charge straight into the area the sound was located. The scene that greeted her was un expected to say the least.

A man wearing white eastern armor held a curved sword in his left hand, Celestia stood stock still, staring at him. But that wasn’t the weirdest part.

Celestia's eyes were half closed, her lips set in a deep frown. A few tears crawled down her cheeks, this was not like her older sister.

This made her even angrier and she charged the assassin with the intent to kill.

He sensed her intent and side stepped her heavy overhead slice, her sword cut through the air.

“You cruel fiend! We shall punish thee for drawing your weapon against our beloved sister!” Luna went back on the offensive before he could answer.

He dodged and blocked each attempted attack.

One of her random thrusts clipped his side. She took advantage of his momentary weakness and shot a spark of arcane energy into his chest.

This staggered him backwards for a second, giving her a momentary opening.

The Easterner let out a growl as Luna charged forward. He dropped his weight to regain his balance and interrupted her charge with his own. He slashed, cut and stabbed at a speed unfollowable by the average eye.

Luna’s sword caught a cut aimed toward her left side, and instead of resisting against her strength, he slid up on her sword and sliced toward her neck.

Luna ducked and slashed her sword at his legs. He jumped over it, and aimed a kick towards her head.

She rolled backwards and stood back up. This warrior was quite skilled, and a lefty at that, but she had barely even begun.

Before either of them could re engage, a large group of guards started surrounding the intruder. Shining Armor lead them, his sword and shield in hand.

“Lay down your weapons or die holding them!” He banged his sword against his shield.

The Easterner answered by charging Shining and smashing his face with a horizontal elbow. This was such an unexpected move, that it landed. And the captain of the guard fell to the ground.

Shining should have worn a helmet.

By the time the other guards were able to react, the Easterner had already escaped them, and Luna was hot on his tail.

“Stop you insolent bastard! Face me like a true warrior!” Luna’s wings brought her in front of the man.

He stopped short and lowered his weapon. “Then you will accept a one on one duel? If I win I go, If I lose you can do whatever you want with me.”

Luna, being a warrior at heart, shook her head. “I accept your offer. But do not expect to win.”

The man bowed in the traditional Eastern way, Luna returned it respectfully. The two raised their weapons and Luna constructed a magical barrier ten yards in diameter, so that no one could interrupt them.

He was the first to move.

His sword came up in a diagonal angle aimed for her vital organs.

Luna back stepped out of the way and blocked his next strike aimed at the same targets, coming from above instead.

She pushed his sword away from her body and attempted to behead him.

He narrowly avoided this by jumping out of reach of her weapon.

Luna scoffed. “You are incredibly skilled to be able to compete with me on this level. Who are you? Why do you hide behind that helmet and why were you trying to kill my sister?”

The warrior circled his opponent. “I am all that you soft Equestrians fear. And I have been betrayed!”

He slashed at her neck, slid off her sword and stabbed toward her heart.

Luna smacked his thrust aside and punched at his face.

He slipped past this and smashed his shoulder into her ribs. This attack made her slide backwards a few feet.

“You have not answered our question, who are you?!” Luna shook the earth with her voice, causing the Easterner to falter a moment.

“To you and your sister, I am no one!”

“Lies! Celestia would not have been crying if you were nothing to her!” Luna charged her sword with lightning and stabbed towards her enemy.

He parried this, only to receive a large shock through his system. Causing him to drop his sword and fall onto his back.

Luna raised her sword with the intent to incapacitate him.

But he did the most unexpected thing.

He rolled towards her, his roll turned into an attack. He pressed his shoulder against the inside of her knee, pulled on her ankle with his arm and pushed with his legs. All this happened in under a second and sent Luna falling to the ground.

Her opponent immediately mounted her and drew a short curved dagger, slicing towards her neck.

Luna caught his arm and bucked as hard as she could. He nearly fell off but was able to brace himself against the force of her buck.

Luna bucked again and managed to rollover on top of him and draw a dagger of her own. The two of them continued this ground war for a few minutes. Stopping each others slices and stabs while rolling around battling for dominance.

Both only received shallow wounds to the body.

Eventually the two of them had been forced to drop their daggers by the others attempted limb breaks or strikes. So they decided to separate and stand back up.

Luna felt a strong impact hit her hard in the stomach as soon as she was on her feet again.

The easterner had kneed her in the solar plexus and attempted to follow up with a downward elbow to the back of her head.

But Luna was far tougher than he knew. She straightened her back, blocked his elbow with both forearms, and headbutted him in the chin simultaneously.

He staggered backwards.

The two warriors stared at each other, trying to catch their breath.

“Tell me your name warrior, before I finish this!” Luna shouted.

He laughed. “Defeat me and I might think about it!”

Luna shot a lightning bolt towards him. He dodged this and drew his curved short sword.

Luna had forgotten about his second blade. She conjured a burst of fire to distract him and immediately attempted to retrieve her weapon with telekinesis.

He ran straight through the fire, as if it had no effect on him. The warrior cut at Luna’s limbs and interrupted her focus.

She felt suffocated by this short range, normally she fought at mid to long range. This man was obviously very comfortable close up.

Luna let her guard down for a split second and a slash cut into her ribs, blood flowed out of the wound as she quickly rolled to the side to escape his aggressive offensive.

But Luna refused to show signs of pain. During his tirade of strikes and cuts, he must have gotten a bit cocky.

He walked forward and raised his sword.

Thinking this was the end of the battle, he swung it down with purpose.

Luna interrupted his vertical slash with a solid arcane shield, pushed off the ground with her legs and smashed his throat with a bear claw strike.

He backed up and grabbed his neck.

Luna did not allow rest, if she didn't end it now she might have to take the fight to the next level.

She didn't want that.

Luna levitated her sword back into her hand and took the opening. Possibly the last one she would get, and pierced through his armor and into his flesh.

He fell to his knees still attempting to slash at her. Luna kicked him onto his back, he did not get back up.

_____________________________________________________

Luna approached her sisters room, and knocked on the door.

When Celestia opened the door, it was obvious to Luna she had been deep in thought. Her cheeks were absent of tears, yet her eyes told another story.

“I guess you are here for answers Luna?” Celestia looked away from her little sisters face.

Luna tilted her head to the side. “How does he know you Celestia? Tell me, why was he after your life?”

“Ah, so he still lives? Good. Quick come in, I do not trust anyone else’s ears.” Celestia opened the door wider, and invited Luna inside.

Luna jumped on the bed, prepared to listen to whatever her older sister had to say.

Celestia sat next to her. “ Luna, I’ve actually known him for quite awhile. He was young when I first met him, around twelve years old. He was involved in the recent war and was part of the country we were allied to. He was being trained by the greatest samurai of that country, whom I knew very well.”

Celestia stopped and took a deep breath. “Luna, he shouldn’t be alive. WhiteFire reported to me directly, he stated that every single person of that small country had been killed. Including their leader, the civilians, and the man who just tried to take my life.” She stopped and once again took a deep breath.

Her body started trembling. “I was so devastated, he was only eighteen when it happened. He had taken control of the military after his teacher died, leading armies at such a young age is unheard of.” Celestia shook her head.

“I thought him dead. For him to suddenly show up is shocking. But why would he be after my life? We were their allies.” A few tears escaped, despite her best efforts to refuse them.

Luna hugged her sister and stayed silent. Celestia quietly cried against Luna’s shoulder, like she used to when they were young.

___________________________________________________

Twilight sent a letter to Celestia, hoping her mentor would answer her plight so she wouldn’t go insane trying to find answers herself.

“So, an incomplete history book is what’s been keeping you up?” Spike raised an eyebrow and scratched his head.

Twilight sighed. “Yes Spike. I know it doesn’t sound crazy interesting to you, but this one makes me feel sick.” She got up from her desk, and walked over to the entrance to the library. It was about time to close up.

A knock on her door interrupted her original purpose.

She opened the door to find a very exhausted royal messenger, gasping for breath. “Are you alright?!” Twilight looked at Spike, who nodded his head and ran for a glass of water.

The messenger accepted it gratefully and chugged it all down. He took a few more breaths before addressing the two standing in front of him. “The princesses request all six of the elements presence. Be there by tomorrow afternoon.” With that, he bowed and marched off towards the town.

The two inhabitants of the library looked towards each other, confusion and concern etched into their faces.

“What could be so important to need all of us by tomorrow?” Twilight cupped her chin in her hand and squinted off into the distance.

“I’ll go gather the others, you keep thinking.” Spike ran out the door to find the other elements of harmony, they needed to know as soon as possible.

An hour or two later, Spike returned to the library and announced they had all agreed to meet at the library immediately.

A few minutes later, Twilight let Fluttershy in. They exchanged greetings and made some small talk while they waited for the others to show up.

Once all six of them had gathered and Spike had served them all drinks, they settled down and began the 'meeting'.

“This is quite sudden. Is something wrong at the castle?” Rarity crossed her legs.

“Thats the thing, I’m not sure. The only thing the messenger told me was to be at the castle by tomorrow afternoon. The weird thing is I just sent Celestia a letter,” Twilight took a sip of her tea. “About all the questions I had.” She resumed to tell them all about what happened that morning, and why she had a bad feeling about the future.

Her friends listened intently, shaking their heads once in a while.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “You seriously think a little unfinished story can mean that much?”

“Yes in fact I do. I wanted to let you all know, and to say you should expect the worst. I have a feeling this is going to get dangerous.”

Rainbow opened her mouth to make another sarcastic remark, but Fluttershy interrupted her. “I think we should all believe Twilight.”

“Fluttershy is right, be on your toes everyone. And don’t let appearances fool you.” Rarity elegantly rose from her chair, signaling to the others the meeting was over.

AppleJack also stood up and grabbed her hat. “We should all go git ready. We leave tomorrow, at sunrise.” She was the first to leave, after tipping her hat towards Twilight.

Rainbow Dash groaned and Pinkie squealed in delight. “Another adventure! I can’t wait to see what kind of fun we will have!” She burst into laughter as she hopped out the door, Rarity raised an eyebrow at the Pink maniac.

“Good evening Twilight, I'll see you tomorrow morning. Make sure you get some sleep, don’t stay up late tonight.” Rarity gave her friend a hug and stepped out the door.

Fluttershy however stayed behind, and didn’t get up from her seat. Twilight gave her a curious glance before shutting the door and sitting down next to her.

“ Did you want to talk to me about something Fluttershy?”

Fluttershy hid behind her hair. “I-I do. You see all my animal friends, even my strong bear friend, have been hanging around my cottage. They refuse to go back out into the forest. Some nights Angel and the other small animals will shake and cry unless I let them sleep with me. I had to move the chicken coup further away from the Everfree, so the chickens will stay calm.”

She came out from beneath her hair and looked Twilight in the eyes. “Something is terribly wrong. I believe you are right, something is going to happen, something very d-dangerous that will change the course of history.”

These final words sent a chill down Twilight’s spine. But she had to stay strong for her friends.

“Thank you Fluttershy. Now I don’t feel as crazy as I did before.” She smiled at Fluttershy, and received a bright smile back.

_________________________________________________

Luna and Celestia sat at the dinner table eating in silence. They commanded everyone to leave them alone tonight, they desired solitude.

Luna was growing restless, she wanted to go visit the would be assassin and question him. Get his name out of him, and remind him the loser must listen to the winners demands. That was the traditional way, and she had a feeling he would keep such a tradition.

“I am surprised he survived such a devastating wound and woke up so quickly.” Celestia placed her fork down onto the table and dabbed her face with a napkin.

“We are not. We were told he possessed multiple scars all over his body and face. Plus, we avoided his vital organs.” Luna quickly gulped down the rest of her mead.

Celestia nodded. “I agree that we should question him after we finish dinner, but I don’t think he will react well to my presence. He wouldn't listen to me when I tried talking to him before.” She frowned.

Luna stood up and turned away from the table. “ I will go to him alone. ” She walked off, determined to get some answers out of the intruder.

The Princess of The Moon walked through the dimly lit corridors of the dungeon, searching for the Easterners cell.

Luna stopped in front of it and crossed her arms. “The only reason I haven’t escaped yet is because of my promise, princess.” The assassin sat up on his cot, acting like he hadn't been stabbed a few hours ago.

Luna gave him a good once over. His hair was red, eyes yellow. His physique was in peak condition, and he wore many different scars. He was obviously human, with no Equestrian features to speak of. No tail, no horn, no wings.

Yet, he looked much too young to have taken part in the war. He looked to be in his twenties. If he was the boy Celestia spoke of, he should be at least forty eight by now.

Luna ignored these thoughts and looked into his eyes, they were much softer than they had been before. “Why were you after my sisters life and what is your name? Tell me now or forever live in dishonor.”

“Of course, you are the victor after all.” He bowed his head. “Your sister betrayed us, me and my people. We were promised assistance at the final battle against the War Machine that was swallowing the eastern world whole. The Canterlot Royal army arrived precisely when they said they would.” His fists tightened and his head raised.

His eyes burned with anger. “Then, they turned around and ran. Ran in fear of the size of our enemies army. They left us all to die. Left the civilians of our country to die! Imagine it Luna, imagine waking up only to realize they slaughtered the innocent you swore to protect.”

Luna’s eyes grew large, this was new to her. “How did you survive? Did you run?”

He shot out of his cot and gripped the bars of his cell so hard they bent. “I slaughtered the cowards! I burned them alive and killed their generals!” Luna noticed the bars were turning red underneath his hands.

‘Heat?’

“How did you do such a thing on your own when your whole army couldn’t manage? What is your name?” Luna did not avert her gaze from his.

He stepped away from the bars, and composed himself. “I do not remember how I did it. I woke up to a field of fire and death. Unfortunately, that was only a portion of their military force.” The easterner sat back down on his bed. “My name is Kagatsuchi. I do not possess a last name.”

Luna nodded her head. “Kagatsuchi, I believe there has been a big misunderstanding. My sister did not run. Celestia received a report from her high general, saying you were all dead when they got there.”

“ Is that so? Why didn’t she make sure of it herself? Why wasn’t she the one leading the army, to make sure they kept their promise? ” Kagatsuchi slammed his fist against the wall.

“While she sent her trusted High general to lead the charge, she was dealing with the enemies armies setting up camp in the Everfree. Celestia does not sit idle in times of war, especially when innocents are involved.” Luna crossed her arms.

Kagatsuchi stared at the ground. “You swear you are not telling me lies to protect your sister?”

“I swear on the moon and stars, we are only telling you the truth.” Luna placed a fist over her heart and bowed.

A few seconds of silence passed. “I believe you. You are not one to lie, I can tell that much. I am not one to lie either, me and my men were still alive when Canterlot’s force arrived.” The Easterner paced back and forth in his cell. “If what you say is true, then I have been gravely mistaken. The one I must kill, is that general you speak of.” Kagatsuchi’s pacing stopped, and he looked towards Luna.

“Yes, if what you say is true then High general WhiteFire has much to answer for. But first we need proof, and we can’t let you out of your cell until we know we can trust you.” Luna crossed her arms behind her back.

He clenched his fists tightly. “ You dare suggest I would lie?”

Luna swiped one of her arms out in front of her. “Do not be so quick to spill blood! We understand your desire for justice and revenge better than anyone else. We also understand if you are not careful you will turn into the very murderers you hate!”

Kagatsuchi’s knuckles turned white, and his body trembled. “I will never be like those bloodthirsty child killers!”

Luna stood tall, her gaze stern. “No matter how much you justify your actions, the product of those actions is what matters. Do not lower yourself to their level in order to gain instantaneous satisfaction.”

Kagatsuchi sat back down and looked away from Luna’s face. “Please, leave me be.”

She stood still for a moment, considering whether she should listen or not. Then shook her head. “I shall talk to Princess Celestia.” Luna turned and left the prison behind.

The faint sounds of a man releasing years of repressed sorrow and regret followed her the whole way.

Author's Note

Please do not try grappling someone who wields a blade on the ground, It is a horrible idea.

A block is used to absorb damage, a parry is used to redirect the force of the attack and is made strong by movement. Someone who tries to defend without using movement is not too smart.

I know, this chapter is short for the amount of shit that happens, but the future chapters will be longer, more detailed, and answer more questions.

My updates will not be so frequent after the first three chapters, life and training get in the way you know.

The Heart is Honest

Twilight needed to get to the Princesses. For If the Princesses fell, the world they knew would cease to be.

She ran through the eerily empty streets. As she neared the gates of the castle the sounds of battle grew much louder than before, making her heart beat faster.

The entire castle exploded in a burst of fire. Twilight heard the inhabitants scream in agony and terror. Fear grew in her heart but she pressed on anyway and ran into the courtyard, hoping to save a few from the flames.

There was one survivor.

Twilight approached him carefully, fire surrounding her on all sides. The bodies of many guards and nobles lay strewn about. Finally the man turned to face her.

His hair was red, eyes yellow and filled with a bloodlust even the greatest of beasts would cower in the presence of.

Twilight screamed, eliciting a response from both Rarity and Pinkie Pie that involved high pitched screaming. Applejack jumped and dropped her apple cider, then sighed when she realized nothing was wrong.

Twilight slowly realized it was all just a dream and covered her mouth with her hands. “I’m so sorry girls! I’ll get another cider for you Applejack.” She ran out of the room before the others could stop her.

“I’m goin’ after her.” Applejack threw the newspaper she had been reading to the side and ran after her friend.

Fluttershy slowly slinked back into her seat, having taken cover immediately after Twilight screamed. “I hope she’s okay.”

“She must have had a bad dream is all.” Rarity fanned herself and loosened a few of the buttons on her shirt.

Rainbowdash held her stomach and bit her lip trying not to laugh at her friends, but failed miserably, earning a harsh glare from Rarity. Pinkie didn’t care, she had been laughing the whole time.

Twilight hurriedly ordered a drink for Applejack from the refreshments stand and took a seat at one of the train cars booths. She took a deep breath, attempting to settle her nerves.

Why was Canterlot in flames? Why was there a human standing in the midst of it all? What happened to the Princesses? Were they okay or already-

No that was impossible. They were two of the most powerful beings alive, a fire like that wouldn’t kill them. They would be busy trying to save everyone else.

But what if this was a prophecy? What if all this was going to happen and she was the only one who knew about it? What if she couldn’t do anything to change this possible fate? What if-

“Twilight! Can you hear me?!” Applejack shook her friend. She'd been trying to get her attention for the last thirty seconds.

Twilight looked straight towards her friend and couldn’t help but smile.

Of course everything would be fine, she had her friends to back her up.

“Uh, Twilight? You okay? Why are ya starin at me like that? You alive?” Applejack placed her hand on Twilights forehead to check her temperature.

The smaller girl couldn’t help but giggle and blush. “Im fine Applejack. Have a lot on my mind is all.”

Aj backed away and smiled. “Ya’ll gave me quite a scare. Have a bad dream?” Her voice was as warm and comforting as homemade apple pie.

‘Wait, that makes no sense Twilight.’ She shook her head of these nonsensical and cliche thoughts before she turned her attention back to her friend. “Yes. I’m fine now thank you. You don’t have to worry. Lets grab your drink and get back to the others.”

Applejack nodded and the two of them headed back to their seats, the rest of the ride contained only laughter and short naps.

________________________________________________

It was late into the night and Luna was busy gazing up at the moon and stars.

Her sister had been shocked at the information Luna relayed to her earlier that evening. While describing everything Kagatsuchi had told her, Celestia received a letter from Twilight and read it with interest. The Princess of the Day was even more upset after learning the contents of that letter and sent a letter back requesting the Elements presence. Then teleported to the library without saying a word to Luna.

She was used to it, they've been doing it that way for centuries. They would inform each other at the right time and in their own manner.

‘Now is not the time to be idling around gazing at the stars. I have many questions that must be answered.’ Luna flew off into the sky, her destination unknown to all but her sister.

_________________________________________________

The Elements and Spike all arrived at Canterlot’s Castle gates just as the sun began to set. Twilight shivered, remembering how vivid her dream was.

But this time her friends were there with her. She felt far more confident with their support.

Twilight breathed deep, looked at all her friends and then entered the castles main hall without a trace of fear.

The young girl did not expect her brother to be standing in wait for them, but this only made everything that much better. “Shining!” Twilight couldn’t contain herself and charged straight into her brothers arms, who laughed and pulled her into a tight hug. “It’s good to see you Twilight. How was the train ride?”

Twilight pulled away from her brother. “It was great! We had a lot of fun.” After taking a good look at his face, she noticed the entire left side of it was dark and bruised.

“Dude what happened to your face?” Rainbowdash blurted out while looking entirely unconcerned.

‘leave it up to her to say it in the worst way possible.’ Twilight shook her head.

Shining Armor’s face twitched. “A uh, sparring partner of mine hit me in the face with the end of his practice sword. Nothing serious, should have worn a helmet.” he scratched the back of his head. “Now come, the Princesses are waiting for you.” He quickly turned around and led them into the dining hall, where both Princess Celestia and Luna awaited their arrival.

A feast lay in wait for them, the highest quality foods from all over Equestria lay on the table. Candles lined the table and servants scurried about.

“Good evening girls and Spike. Please take a seat anywhere at the table.” Celestia motioned towards the seats lined up all around the table. Twilight said bye to her brother and took the seat closest to Princess Celestia.

“So why did you call all of us here? We need to beat up some bad guys again?” Rainbow punched the air, rudely allowing food to fall out of her open mouth.

This earned her a slap on the head from Rarity.

Celestia giggled. “Not exactly. You see-”

“Someone tried to kill Celestia yesterday morning.” Luna shouted after slamming her cup down onto the table.

Everyone at the table sat in stunned silence, Celestia face palmed and shook her head. “Luna! I told you to let me tell them!”

“Well how else were you going to say it?” Luna rolled her eyes and rested her cheek on her fist.

“W-wait! What?! Someone- Celestia- huh?!” Twilight’s pupils shrank and she started hyperventilating.

“Twilight calm down! Everythin is okay!” Applejack grabbed her friend by the shoulders, obviously not calm either.

“We are all gonna die!!” Screamed Pinkie Pie, scaring Fluttershy into hiding.

“Pinkie!” Rarity scolded as she grabbed at her heart.

“Where is he? Let me at him!”

“Everyone please calm down!”

A few minutes later, Celestia managed to restore order.

“S-So Celestia what happened? Please tell us.” Twilight calmly addressed her mentor.

Celestia and Luna went on to tell the seven all about what happened. The shocking approach, the fierce battle and then the imprisoning of the assassin. Luna of course, told a dramatic story of their battle. Earning oo’s and ah’s from her audience despite the seriousness of what took place.

“The bad guy has already been taken care of right? So why do you need us?” Rainbowdash slouched in her seat.

Twilight nodded in agreement. “What is it you called us here for?”

Celestia closed her eyes and sighed. “The assassin is from an old Eastern country we used to be allied with.”

Luna explained her conversation with him and Celestia told them how she knew him and why she felt he was not an enemy.

“Just cause you knew im’ before don’t’ mean he gits’ a get out of jail free card. He still tried ta' kill you Princess!” Applejack slammed a palm down onto the table.

Twilight placed a hand on her shoulder, Applejack visibly relaxed. “Princess Celestia, do you think it’s a conspiracy?”

Celestia smiled proudly at her student for a moment, then immediately returned to her previous expression. “You are correct. I do not feel he is an enemy, I think Kagatsuchi was scarred and used by the emotions our true enemy caused him to feel. I believe there are people in Canterlot plotting against me and my sister.”

Celestia looked from person to person to make sure the message sunk in. “Think about it girls. First Twilight realizes something strange about the end of the Eastern war, around the same time an attempt on my life is made by a man I thought was dead. I received a report from Whitefire and the other commanding officers who went with him of information that clashes with Kagatsuchi’s. Kagatsuchi is not the type to do anything for political power or riches, only for justice.”

Celestia stops to catch her breath. “So yes. There is some sort of conspiracy going on here.”

Silence once again fills the room. Each one of them deep in thought about this unique problem, one they had never faced before.

“So how can we help?” Rainbowdash rubs the back of her head, unsure of what to do and tired of the silence.

Celestia stands up, places her hands on the table and leans forward. “You will stay in the castle until this crisis is over, do not worry you will be compensated for the trouble we are causing you. I can not tell you the details now, but I need all of you to be on high alert. You will receive various assignments, playing to each one of your abilities. But the most important mission is for you, Fluttershy.”

“M-me?!” Fluttershy squeaked and shrunk into herself.

“Your mission today is to go and talk to Kagatsuchi. Now before you freak out I need you to listen to me.” Celestia gently placed her hand on one of Fluttershy’s shoulders.

Applejack shot out of her chair. “Now wait just a darn minute! She has to go talk to that guy right now? Alone? Princess I have to say I don’t agree with this.”

Luna stood up as well. “Do not worry Honest Applejack, I will accompany her. She is safe with me.”

“Wait! This doesn’t make any sense! Can’t one of you go talk to him again?!” Rainbowdash jumped to Fluttershy’s side and placed a wing around her shoulders protectively.

“The only thing that can break through that guy's sadness and warm his heart, is Fluttershy’s kindness. If we stop her, he will never be happy again.” Pinkie’s compassionate voice silenced her friends. Aj and Rainbow looked towards her wide eyed.

Twilight giggled, every once in a while Pinkie Pie came out with something astounding.

Luna shook her head. “The pink one is right, that man’s heart has been hardened by years of brewing in his own emotions and anger. Years of survival against the physical horrors of this world and the nightmares of his own thoughts. The only thing keeping him from ending his own life the whole time, were thoughts of revenge on those who unjustly slaughtered the ones he loved. Now he feels he has nothing to live for.”

Fluttershy stood up, no longer shaking. Rainbow looked towards her with one eyebrow raised.

“I-I’ll do it. Please, take me to him.” Her voice shook but her body showed no signs of fear.

Luna smirked, nodded her head, and began leading the way to the dungeon. Her stride long and graceful.

“What?! Fluttershy dear are you sure you want to talk to someone so dangerous?” Rarity’s eyes nearly fell out of her head.

The Element of Kindness turned and smiled towards her friends. “Don’t worry about me girls. Princess Luna will make sure I’m safe. B-besides, I have a feeling he is truly a kind person.”

With that Luna and Fluttershy carried on without interruption.

_______________________________________________

The fire of the dungeons torches were weak and dim, not unlike this mans current state of spirit.

Kagatsuchi’s face showed signs of mourning. The stone walls of his cell showed signs of his anger, a few fist shaped craters here and there.

When Fluttershy entered his cell he didn’t bother to look up. There was no point in trying to converse with these people any longer. He had already made up his mind.

“E-excuse me? S-s-s-sir?”

For some reason this soft ,warm, voice forced him to make eye contact against his better judgment.

“Why are you here girl? My fate is already sealed.” Though he tried to sound angry his voice came out gentle. He couldn’t bring himself to yell at this girl and it frustrated him.

Fluttershy tilted her head. “W-what do you mean?” She needed to start slow, she could tell from a glance he was on the edge of a breakdown.

Kagatsuchi sighed and straightened his back so he could get a better look at her. She was young and beautiful, time would take care of that. “I am but a stain on the progress of this world. I will commit seppuku in front of the Princesses tomorrow evening.”

“But why?” Fluttershy took a step closer, her confidence growing.

The samurai’s face twisted into an angry scowl. “Why?! I failed! I failed my loved ones. I allowed the innocent of my country die. I even failed to serve out the justice they all deserved! I would like to die in an honorable fashion at the least!” He stood up and looked down upon the girl in front of him, tears trailed down his cheeks.

This girl did the most unexpected thing and smiled at him. It was not one of pity, but filled with pure unadulterated kindness and empathy. “That’s not it, is it?”

Kagatsuchi stepped back, his eyes full of something he had not shown to anyone his whole life.

Fear.

“What?! I don’t understand what you mean!”

Fluttershy stepped forward and took one of his hands in hers. “You are afraid aren’t you?”

“I fear nothing! Let go of my hand!” He did not attempt to shake her off, but tried to back away from her.

“What you are afraid of is not on the outside.” Her grip on his hands tightened. “What you fear is yourself. Isn’t it?”

Kagatsuchi stared into her eyes, looking for any sort of ulterior motive, any evil or cruelty.

All he could find was kindness.

“Get away from me!” He snatched his hand away and pushed her to the floor.

She did not react like the normal Fluttershy did, she reacted the way she did when one of her animals were injured and scared. She got up, brushed her hair to the side, smiled at him and slowly placed a hand on his shoulder. His breathing was heavy and he watched her hand carefully, but allowed her to do as she wished.

Fluttershy knew better than anyone else how painful healing is. Many struggle against the process because of this fact. Because they believe they don’t deserve it or that it will actually harm them. She herself struggled against it many times.

“You do not fear for your own safety, you fear for the safety of others. The reason you tell me to leave, is because you think you will harm me.” Fluttershy gently lead him to his cot and sat him down. “You are suppressing something that is a part of you. The only way to let go of this fear, anger, sorrow, and loneliness is to accept that part of you.”

Kagatsuchi turned his face away from hers. How could she have seen so far into his heart? What was she? “If you knew what it was you wouldn’t want me alive either girl. Don’t try to pretend like you know how it feels to be a monster.”

Fluttershy only smiled. “I may not know how that feels, but I know how it feels to be called weak, cowardly, stupid, and a waste of life.”

He laughed. “Are you telling me to accept the evil in me too?”

She shook her head side to side. “I’m telling you to see the good in it. To see the truth of it. I learned, with a lot of help, I was none of those things. I turned the negativity I was fed by myself and others, into what my heart truly desired.”

Kagatsuchi slowly looked back at her. “What your heart truly desired?”

Fluttershy shook her head up and down. “What is it you truly desire?”

He closed his eyes and focused inside of himself. Memories of experiences he subconsciously treasured surfaced.

Kagatsuchi remembered the time he fought against a hungry manticore in order to defend a couple of fox cubs. The fox’s trusted him with their lives from then on, he was only eleven when it happened. He remembered the time he jumped into a raging river in order to save a drowning farmers girl playing too close to the Everfree. He remembered all his minor and major acts of courage. They all entailed protecting someone else.

Kagatsuchi remembered on the darkest nights he never felt alone, because the moon shined down on him from above. Basking in its soft comfortable light after a bloody battle was the only thing that filled him with hope. The moon was like a friend who showed their support and strength in the direst times of life.

His eyes shot open.

Kagatsuchi’s posture straightened and his eyes filled with a clarity only those who were enlightened experienced. “Thank you girl, your kindness has reminded me of the truth and shown me my own selfishness.”

Fluttershy smiled and let out a breath she had been holding the whole conversation. “T-there is no need to thank me. What are you going to do now? I-If you don’t mind me asking.”

“I will accept my entire being, no matter what it is, and use my strength for what I believe to be the path I must take.” Suddenly the room grew brighter and his face locked in a serious expression. “You can come out now Princess Luna, no need to hide your presence.”

Luna stepped out from the shadows and smiled at Fluttershy. Her attention refocused on Kagatsuchi. “We are curious to know what you believe your strength should be used for. Do you wish to speak to our sister now?”

Fluttershy exited the cell and stood behind Luna, her shyness returning to her.

Kagatsuchi bowed to Princess Luna. “Yes. I would be honored if I could make amends with your sister, in whatever way I can. Please be there when it happens. I have something important I wish to request.”

Luna gave him a curious look. Then turned to Fluttershy and beckoned her to follow. “We will attend as well. Come sweet Fluttershy, it is late and we are sure you wish to sleep.”

With that, the two of them left the dungeon. Fluttershy felt pride in what she had accomplished.

_____________________________________________

“You totally owned it Fluttershy!” Rainbowdash pulled her into a bone crushing hug. Super proud of her friend's awesome victory.

“It was nothing.” Fluttershy squeaked, trying to catch her breath. She and Rainbowdash were sharing a room in the castle.

Of course the room was ridiculously large. Two king size beds sat next to each other on one end of the room, two dressers sat on the wall opposite them. A bathroom lay just to the left of Fluttershy's bed and the exit lay to the right of Rainbowdash's.

Rainbow promptly let go of Fluttershy when she realized she was having trouble breathing. “ So uh, how did you do it?”

Fluttershy smiled brightly, excited to share her adventure with her closest friend. She told of how she approached him, the amount of emotional distress he felt. She told of how she got him to open up to her, of how the conversation ended and then of Luna’s praise on the way back.

Rainbow could tell how happy and excited Fluttershy felt. She was thoroughly impressed with how brave Fluttershy could be. It made her admire her even more. But she would never admit that to her, Rainbowdash was too cool for that.

“Damn Flutters! I knew you were the perfect choice for the job all along.” Rainbow stuck her nose into the air as she hovered a few feet above her bed.

Fluttershy narrowed her eyes and smirked. “Weren’t you the one trying to get someone else to do it?”

RD fell back down on the bed, red tinting her cheeks. “I was just worried is all! Didn’t want you getting hurt! I knew you could do it you know!”

Fluttershy giggled and started walking towards the bathroom. “I know, thank you for being there for me Dashie.” She looked back toward her friend wearing the most sincere smile.

Rainbow smiled gently back at her. “Don’t mention it.”

___________________________________________

Celestia ran right into her sister on her way to check on how the mission went. The two of them stumbled backwards and laughed.

They composed themselves before getting back to business. “Did everything go well Luna?”

“Yes it went perfectly. Fluttershy is amazing at healing scarred souls. He desires to make amends with you. He also requested I be there when it happens.” Luna crossed her arms and looked out into the night.

Celestia’s smile grew bright and sunny. “I am very pleased to hear this. Do tell why he wants you to be there?”

The Princess of the Night looked into her sister’s eyes. “He said he had an important request for me.”

Celestia nodded and sighed. “I can hear how loud the next meeting is going to be. I’m sure quite a few of our noble 'friends' and generals will have something to say of our soft treatment of Kagatsuchi.”

“To the Moon with them. Personally we have no idea why you let the half of them hold the posts they do now. Especially that Whitefire. We never liked him.” She huffed and turned completely towards the window.

Celestia draped an arm around her sisters shoulders. For a long time she said nothing. Hesitation apparent through her body language. “Do you trust me Luna?” Her voice filled with uncertainty.

Luna looked up at the moon and shook her head. “Forever and always, dear sister.”

Author's Note

Attempting to get the ball rolling with the characters, I apologize if my next update takes a long while.

The Brain is Not

Twilight stared blankly at the wall. Organizing her thoughts at the end of the day tended to help her stay sane and right now was the perfect moment. Rarity was taking a long shower and Spike had gone to sleep. That left her with the silence of the room. No interruptions, no distractions, no chaos.

Except in her own mind of course.

Twilight realized the room had received a fresh coat of paint, the beds were freshly made, even the floors were shined and the carpets vacuumed.

She suddenly felt very panicky, what if they had set some kind of traps in the room?

‘They wouldn’t do that, they don’t even know we have an idea of what’s going on. Get a grip Twilight’ She smacked herself in the head a few times, before going back to her meditative position.

Twilight wondered if Fluttershy succeeded in her mission. She really wanted to meet this Kagatsuchi, the Princesses seem to value him very highly. Then a strange thought occurred to her, if his country and home had been destroyed, where did he live? The entire Eastern nation was conquered by The War Machine, so he couldn’t have stayed there for long. The only other place he could have possibly ran to was…

“The Everfree forest?! That’s impossible! He couldn’t have survived in there for thirty years!” Twilight shouted out loud without thinking, then covered her mouth. Luckily Spike was a heavy sleeper.

“Twilight? Is something wrong?” The shower shut off and Rarity began to dry herself.

Twilight shook her head, she really needed to get a grip. “Everything is fine Rarity! Sorry!”

She slunk back onto her bed. Her thoughts went right back to her recent discovery. Twilight could not believe he had lived in the Everfree for thirty years straight. Perhaps he went undercover in the Eastern lands a few times? Somehow she doubted that. That would explain part of the reason he was able to give Princess Luna a run for her money, even though she was holding back.

What were the Princesses planning on doing with Kagatsuchi? The ones conspiring against them would definitely make a lot of noise about this if they didn’t play it carefully. She was curious as to how they would play it all out.

The door to the bathroom opened wide letting out all the steam trapped inside. Rarity walked through the cloud looking every bit like the fashionista she was known to be. A fluffy white robe tied around her body, her hair silky and done up so as not to get messed up during the night.

Rarity glided onto her bed and looked over at Twilight. “What were you yelling about before dear? Something on your mind?”

Twilight stared at her friend and wondered if she ever didn’t look graceful. “I’m just, theorizing again. I believe Kagatsuchi lived in the Everfree for over thirty years, and deep in its depths. Not just on the outskirts we are used to.”

Rarities eyes widened. “Now dear, you know the stories they tell of those parts of the Everfree. Trees that actually eat people, entire communities of giant spiders, the Mother of Timberwolves, and on top of all that they say it’s so dark you can’t see your hands an inch away from your face. Tell me, if all the stories about it are true, how would he survive in such a perilous environment?”

Twilight nodded her head, Rarity was right and she hadn’t even gotten to the worst of the rumors. They say there are parts of the Everfree where the ground itself will swallow you whole if you aren’t careful. There were stories Celestia would stop in the middle of because of how terrifying they were, especially since she had been in the midst of it before with Luna. A plant monster so large and cunning, dragons steered clear of it not wanting to be injured or killed. They say necromancers practiced their magic in the swamps, preparing to swallow the world with their army of the dead.

Of course, even this was only scratching the surface of what could really be out there. No one really knew anymore, besides a select few. Such as those who had actually been there.

Rarity sat patiently. She knew how Twilights brain worked better than most of their other friends, she would answer her when ready.

“I have no idea Rarity. Maybe he went around the worst parts?” Twilight sat up on her bed and stretched her arms.

Rarity sat up as well. “Twilight. We both know how easy it is to get lost in those woods. If he was in there for thirty years, don’t you think he would have at least stumbled upon the worst of it once?”

The Element of Magic threw her arms up into the air. “I don’t know Rarity! We would have to ask him to be sure. There is so much theory that could be thrown out it’s impossible to get it right. Perhaps he rode a griffin over to Canterlot.”

Rarity threw back her head and laughed. “Oh Twilight! You really get me sometimes. Yet, you are right. We can only really know if he tells us. Which I doubt he ever will.”

Twilight giggled, Rarity knew she hated not knowing something when she thought it was important. Maybe she could ask the Princesses one day, they seemed to have a way of knowing it all when it came to secret subjects.

“Now my real concern is if Fluttershy succeeded or not. The poor dear must have been scared out of her wits!” Rarity got off her bed, sat next to Twilight and started brushing her hair.

Twilight closed her eyes and enjoyed the sensation of the brush sliding through her hair. “I disagree. Fluttershy had that look. You know the look she gets when nothing will stand in her way of carrying through with whatever it is she has to do? Remember when she stood up to that dragon? ”

Rarity smiled at the memory, it felt so long ago. “I guess you are right. Fluttershy possesses a power we do not have.”

Twilight shook her head, the brush stopped her motion. “We are all unique Rarity. We just have to recognize our own strengths as much as we recognize each others.”

Rarity smiled. “Oh Twilight! you are such a sweet girl and you don’t even know it!” She wrapped her arms around Twilight and squeezed her against her chest from behind.

Twilights eyes shot wide open and her cheeks were painted a slight shade of pink. “ I’m only telling the truth Rarity. I don’t see how that is sweet.” She had to admit, the position they were in was comfortable.

Rarity began to run her fingers through her hair. “You have such beautiful hair. You must let me experiment with it tomorrow!”

Twilight nodded her head, it was getting difficult to keep her eyes open. Rarity was comfier than the bed. “I wouldn’t mind that. I know you will make it look good.”

“You are being extra flattering tonight Twilight. Are you trying to get something from me?” Rarities voice sounded a hint sultry, but Twilight waved it off and yawned.

“A comfortable place to sleep maybe. We should go to bed Rarity.”

Rarity nodded her head slowly. “I think im fine right here.”

The two of them fell asleep within a few seconds of that conversation ending.

______________________________________

Early the next morning Celestia and Luna were already ready to take a vacation. Like they had predicted, this meeting was getting really loud and tedious.

“Clearly the Princess knows he was mentally unstable when he attacked her! If they think he should be given a second chance, so be it!” One of the women nobles shouted back at High General Whitefire.

“I do not mean to imply that I do not trust the Princesses judgment. But clearly he could still be unstable and I believe Princess Celestia’s judgment is clouded by emotions.” Whitefire’s voice held a charisma very few possessed. Many of the nobles started whispering amongst themselves. “Just because the Element of Kindness deems him worthy of trust means nothing to me. She is still young.”

Luna couldn’t take it anymore and opened her mouth to speak. “You inso-”

Celestia flung a hand out to silence her and then looked straight in Whitefires eyes. “ I will pretend I didn’t hear what you just said. To me it sounds like you desperately want him executed. Why is that I wonder? Could you be hiding something from me, my most trusted general?”

Whitefire did not answer for a few seconds. He stroked his big grey beard and bowed his head toward Celestia.“Of course not your highness. I was simply emotionally concerned for your well being. Now that I look at it you are right, I stepped out of line. But please, consider putting him under confinement at a psychiatric ward for a little while. That is all I wish to say.”

“It is odd. Didn’t his clan, the Moto, get wiped out in the war? Where has he been this whole time?” Coldheart, a recent general promoted by Luna to the position of high general, crossed his arms and sat back in his chair.

“Yes. They all perished in the final battle against the War Machine.” Whitefire answered sorrowfully, stroking his beard.

Luna scoffed. “Except they didn’t. Kagatsuchi still lives. We will decide what to do with him. This meeting is over!”

Both Princesses stood up, signalling to the nobles and generals it was time to leave. No one questioned them and left.

Celestia and Luna walked side by side back to the dining room. The Elements would probably be eating right about now and they needed to speak to them before going to talk to Kagatsuchi.

______________________________________

The royal dining room was filled with noise this morning. The girls immediately bombarded Fluttershy with questions, all except for Rainbowdash of course. Whom instead helped Fluttershy tell her story with a little more color.

Applejack slapped her on the back. “Ahm so proud of you Fluttershy! You took that on like it was nothin.”

“Yeah! Now all we gotta do is make him laugh!” Pinkie jumped into the air in excitement, scaring a passing servant.

Twilight giggled and turned her attention to Fluttershy. “By the way what does he look like? Just out of curiosity.”

Fluttershy looked up at the ceiling, finger poking her chin. “He has Red hair and Yellow eyes. Thats all I can remember.”

The others began teasing Fluttershy on her memory, Twilight did not. She sat still, a cold shiver going up and down her back. That description fit the man in her dream too perfectly. Was it really a prophecy? No that can’t be. It must have been a coincidence, or maybe it was a warning? But from who or what?

Twilight refocused on reality when she felt a hand touch her back. Celestia smiled warmly down at her student. This dispersed all her worries, Twilight relaxed.

Celestia glanced at each one of the girls in the room, Spike was busy eating an extra helping of pancakes. “I hope you girls are enjoying yourselves as much as Spike is.” Spike stopped with a mouth full of pancakes and gave the Princess a sheepish grin.

She laughed. “Twilight will you come with me and Luna to talk with Kagatsuchi? I think you should be there. The rest of you should relax until further notice, go out on the town if you wish. Just be careful, I have a feeling we are being watched.”

____________________________________

Luna led the way into the dungeon, torch in hand. Celestia and Twilight followed behind in these seemingly never ending stone tunnels underneath the castle.

They stopped in front of Kagatsuchi’s cell, he was in a meditative position. Legs underneath him, back straight and eyes closed. He didn’t even flinch when he heard them arrive.

Luna and Celestia looked at each other, nodded, and Celestia entered the cell.

“Celestia?” Kagatsuchi turned his head a little.

Celestia held back some tears, it was long past the time to cry. “Yes. I am here.”

Kagatsuchi turned himself around but did not stand up or look at her face. “Princess I do not deserve to gaze upon you. No apology will make up for what I attempted to do.” He lowered his face to the ground, hands grasping the floor. “I shall accept whatever judgement you see fit. I put my life in your hands in order to repent for trying to take yours unjustly. You may do with it as you see fit.”

Twilight felt tears start to form in her eyes. She looked at Luna to see her also wearing a compassionate expression. How could he be the man in her dream?

Celestia knelt down and gently lifted his head until he was looking her in the eyes. “I should be the one apologizing. I feel completely responsible for what happened to you. Please, do not cry or feel angry any more. Do not fear to show your true potential.” She offered him a hand, he took it and stood up. “The gift I give you is no punishment. It is freedom. You choose what to do with your life. The only thing I will not allow you to do is harm yourself.”

He stood up, expression unreadable. “Your kindness knows no limits Princess. I will never be able to repay you for this chance you have given to me.” Kagatsuchi bowed to her and then straightened himself. “Give me this chance to make a request to Princess Luna and I’m certain you won’t be disappointed.”

Celestia surprised him by embracing him in a tight hug. “The one you should be asking is her not me.” She released him and stepped to the side.

Luna looked him up and down. “What is it you wish to request of us?”

Kagatsuchi stared her straight in the eyes. “Princess Luna please allow me to help you bring justice to those conspiring against you and your sister!”

Luna’s eyes widened, she was taken by surprise. “What?”

“I will do whatever you ask of me. I will throw aside my sword if that is what you request!” His voice resounded throughout the dungeon.

Luna wondered how he knew she was the one who would be in charge of the investigation, while Celestia dealt with the political side.

Luna lifted her chin up. “Swear to us you will not kill without our consent.”

“Of course, I will not do anything like that of my own free will.” He bowed again.

Luna softened her eyes and walked around him. “I accept your request. From now on you will be allowed to assist me with this investigation. But I have one condition.”

Kagatsuchi bowed once again, he almost smiled. “Anything Princess.”

“You must reveal to me this power you possess. That is my first command.” Luna turned to face him again.

Kagatsuchi did not hesitate for one second. “Of course. For the sake of safety I shall only give a small taste of it for now.”

Both Celestia and Twilight raised an eyebrow. Neither of them knew of any special power he held.

Only Luna had seen the signs.

Kagatsuchi lifted his arm as a burst of fire covered his skin. It consumed his entire body, yet he remained unscathed. The torches in the dungeon flared up in reaction to his power.

Twilight opened her mouth.

‘What is he?’

“I am the disciple of the god of fire. In the east it is considered a curse. I personally think of it as a blessing.”

“Impressive. We are excited to see what you can do with this ability in action.” Luna clapped her hands together.

Celestia blinked her eyes rapidly. “You never showed me this before!”

Kagatsuchi put the fire out and swung around to face Celestia. “I never got the chance too.” His gaze wandered down to Twilight. “Are you her disciple?”

All she could do was shake her head.

Celestia giggled. “She and her friends have saved Equestria more than once. Usually she isn’t so shy. That’s Fluttershy’s job.”

Kagatsuchi nodded his head. “ It is an honor.”

After a few moments of awkward silence, for Twilight anyway, she decided to speak up. “So whats your plan? Won’t the ones conspiring against you use this to damage your reputation?” Her eyes gazed up at her mentor.

Twilight hadn’t realized it before but around these three she felt very small. Not just because she was a short skinny girl, but because they all held such a different feel to them than normal Equestrians did. She felt like there was a thick aura surrounding them at all times.

“I have a plan for that.” Luna stepped in the middle of them. The other three listened, nodded their heads, and smiled.

___________________________________

“This city is marvelous, no matter what happens behind closed doors. And this food. Delicious!” Rarity bit into her salad.

She, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie had all gone out to Lunch together. Rainbowdash and Applejack decided to wait for Twilight before catching up with them, just in case she needed someone there.

“Fluttershy what do you think about this whole conspiracy? Do you think it will get dangerous?” Rarity popped a grape in her mouth.

Fluttershy gazed into her soup a long while. Eventually she looked up at Rarity, a glint of concern in her eyes. “I know it will get dangerous. But I am not scared, no matter how strong they are, my friends are stronger. I'm sure of it.”

Rarity smiled as Pinkiepie giggled, she never did understand how Fluttershy could have so much more confidence in her friends than in herself. It was endearing to say the least, and aggravating when she wouldn’t accept anything positive about herself. Fluttershy and Twilight had the tendency to be too humble.

“Excuse me ladies, the Princesses request your presence. We were sent to retrieve you.” Four royal guards stood next to their table. Complete with their signature stony expression and shiny swords.

Pinkie gave them an odd glance, but Rarity waved it off. “Of course sirs. We will return immediately! I do not mean to sound rude but why did she send guards instead of a messenger?”

One of the guards bowed his head. “Princess Celestia thought it too dangerous for you to return alone.”

Fluttershy’s eyes widened. “Oh my.”

The three girls started following the guards back to the castle. At first the three talked about the weather, then it turned into a conversation about what the Princess desperately needed them for. The three were so distracted they hadn’t noticed they were lead into an empty alleyway until it was too late.

Rarities gut told her something was very very wrong. “Excuse me but why have we stopped here? Explain yourselves immediately!”

They were surrounded by four armed guards, none of them answered her. All four guards drew their swords at the same time, the steel shined in the sunlight. Why hadn’t she realized how strange their eyes looked before?

Fluttershy shrank into herself and whimpered. Pinkiepie entered an aggressive stance, growling at them. Rarity got ready to defend herself as well.

“Fluttershy I need you to fly away and get help. We need it. Right now.” Rarity whispered sharply, keeping her eyes on the two in front of her.

One of the guards charged and slashed his sword at Rarity. She yelled and narrowly sidestepped the attack. In the same moment the other guard tried to cut into Fluttershy’s flesh, only to meet the open air. She had already taken off.

Pinkie blasted them with her party cannon, forcing them to back off in surprise for a few moments. They took this as a chance to run away.

Unfortunately the guards were fast, one caught up and stabbed at Pinkiepie’s back. She backflipped over the guard, kicked the next in the neck and rolled away from the third ones slash.

Rarity threw a trashcan at the one following her. He smashed it aside, determined to kill the element of Generosity. His next few attacks fell just inches short of cutting into her flesh.

He charged forward and grabbed her by the arm, a stab shot forward aimed for her chest, and missed.

This was a mistake, she jabbed a finger into his eye and kneed his nether regions. Then she turned around and started running back to Pinkiepie.

Rarity was regretting wearing such a short tight dress today.

Pinkie was giving the three other guards a lot of trouble, her ability to defy logic showing up every so often. She started throwing cupcakes at them to try and keep them away.

Eventually the two of them were backed into a corner, panting heavily. Neither Rarity nor Pinkie had ever experienced a fight in which the other side desperately wanted you dead.

Rarity threw a round house kick aimed at the closest guards instep. This landed and made him stumble a second. Pinkie joined in by jumping on top of his back, flattening him to the ground.

A different guard slashed vertically at her. Pinkie slid backwards out of reach of the blade.

The guards moves looked unrefined compared to the other royal guards. They seemed more sluggish and barbaric as well, not as precise and controlled as the genuine ones.

“Rarity! Their eyes are all white and scary! I don’t think they had enough coffee this morning!” Pinkie yelled desperately as she struggled to pick up a dumpster.

Rarity gasped, she was right.

They no longer had pupils of any kind.

She mustered all of her willpower and threw the dumpster with her magic. It smashed two of the guards into the ground. The other two came at them again, Rarity struggled to try and take their swords away with her magic. But she was not as adept in magic as Twilight was and it failed to work against their brute strength.

Rarity didn’t have enough energy to dodge the guards next attack. The sword swung in a horizontal angle towards her right side, she closed her eyes to prepare to feel the excruciating pain.

Pinkie wouldn’t let that happen. She tackled Rarity to the ground and in exchange the sword sliced into her back. Pinkie let out a sharp cry of pain, blood started soaking the back of her shirt.

“P-Pinkie! Oh goddesses no! Please be alright!” Rarity helped her friend up and they struggled away from the guards, the other two had managed to crawl out from underneath the dumpster.

The four guards closed in, they had no escape. Not with an injured Pinkiepie and an exhausted Rarity.

“Halt!” Two royal guards charged down the alleyway, swords in hand.

Three of the guards whom were after Rarity and Pinkie turned around to join battle with the real royal guards. One of them continued after them.

Unfortunately for that one, Fluttershy swooped down and smashed him in the face with a large stone. He did not move again.

The two royal guards cut, slashed, stabbed, kicked, punched and used their abilities to quickly put down the remaining three. Ones head rolled on the floor, the other two were impaled through the chest and stomach.

“Are you ladies alright?” The sergeant was the first to speak.

Rarity held on tightly to Pinkiepie, who had fainted. “N-no Pinkie is hurt! We need to get her to a doctor right away!”

In that moment one of the supposed dead fake guards got up and slashed the private in the side, he grunted and fell to his knees. The sergeant turned around smashed it with his fist, pulled his blade out of its sheath and slashed through its neck. He then approached the other one that still had its head and took care of that before it could stand.

Fluttershy and Rarity screamed, they had never seen this before. Swords being used for their actual purpose, it was terrifying.

The sergeant checked on the private, who gave him a thumbs up. “I’ll be alright, make sure the young girls are fine sir.”

Sergeant helped him up. “Lets get these two to a hospital. Quick, you with the wings! Fly away and notify the princesses, they will want to see this.”

Fluttershy once again flew away as Rarity and the Sergeant brought Pinkiepie and the Private to the conveniently close by hospital.

_________________________________________

“What did you just say?!” Twilight ran over to Fluttershy and grabbed her shoulders.

“W-w-we were attacked and Pinkie got hurt. We were saved by two real guards, one was injured because they got b-back up.”

Luna stepped forward. “We will take care of this. Celestia, do you mind if I bring Kagatsuchi?”

Celestia nodded her head no. Their plan did not call for such cautionary measures, this would be a good test for him afterall. “I will go to the hospital to make sure the two injured are treated correctly. Rainbowdash and Applejack, go with Luna. Twilight and Rarity, come with me.”

Everyone immediately headed out with an urgency they hadn’t felt so far. Luna knew this was a good wake up call to the Elements, they needed to know how serious it could get. It was a test of their resolve.