Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Chapter Twenty
Chapter Twenty-One
Chapter Twenty-Two
Chapter Twenty-Three
Chapter Twenty-Four
Chapter Twenty-Five
Chapter Twenty-Six
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Prologue
Chapter Two
Chapter Seventeen

Chapter One

In the back row of her first period class, Sunset Shimmer’s green eyes widened in shock and her mouth fell open as she read the end of Twilight Sparkle’s brief note once more. Before her surprise was registered by any other students, Vice Principal Luna’s voice over the loudspeaker jolted her back to the world of Canterlot High School.

“Good morning, Wondercolts! Today is Monday, and we will observe a normal eight-period schedule today…”

Sunset tuned out the routine announcements, slowly closed the big Equestrian book and eased it into her book bag, safely out of sight. As Luna droned on, the literature teacher took a sip of her coffee and began to outline on the chalkboard a discussion of Animal Farm, a book that Sunset had read only enough of to realize it hit too close to home. Interrupting her thoughts, she heard Sonata softly sniffling behind her.

Almost on cue, Luna concluded by noting, “…I realize that the Battle of the Bands was an intense experience for all of you. If you believe you are ill, please visit Nurse Redheart.”

Brushing a lock of red-and-gold hair out of her face, Sunset saw her chance to find out what was wrong with the dim member of the Dazzlings, get out of literature class and get her mind around Twilight’s “theory.” Besides, she was more comfortable with action than abstract work.

Not asking permission, Sunset declared, “Miss Raven, I’m taking Sonata to the nurse’s office.” She stood, quickly gathered her belongings, grabbed the blue-haired girl by the wrist and the pair exited into the hallway, with every eye in the classroom following them to the door. She was suddenly worried about the total lack of resistance from the injured girl.

Her good mood dispelled, Sunset kept moving towards a part of the school that was more private and more familiar. Great, she’s turned into Fluttershy on a bad day, Sunset Shimmer thought, but I’ve got to find out what’s going on.

Aloud, she added, “Follow me, Sonata. We need to talk. Besides, I didn’t say when I was taking you to see Nurse Redheart.”

The reply was barely audible. “Okay.”

With a wry twist of her lips, Sunset looked at the still-flickering fluorescent light outside of the maintenance equipment storage room. The darkness in this corner of the school hadn’t felt right to her for several months, but a little discomfort was far better than having their conversation interrupted by Miss Cheerilee in the library or being dragged into either Celestia or Luna’s office.

Sunset pointed at a long, low wooden bench against a tile wall in the tiny, dimly lit room. Mops, brooms and other cleaning implements were their only company. Sonata sat down and balled up once again, her lilac eyes now wide with fear.

“Okay, it’s only us Equestrians now. Tell me what in Tartarus is going on! Why did you come back here?”

“I didn’t know what else to do,” the blue-skinned girl said mechanically, “I’ve never been alone like this.”

“Alone?” Despite her annoyance with Sonata, she remembered the first moons of her own exile to this world. “What about your, um, colleagues, friends, sisters or whatever? What did they do?”

“They threw me out!” The tears were coming more freely now that Sonata had realized she wasn’t in immediate danger. “More than a thousand years together, and they left me! They said they would be better off as a duet instead of a trio, and that I was weak for accepting my defeat.”

Sunset felt the pit of her stomach clench and suppressed an uncomfortable frown, because she could easily believe that before being blasted by Twilight’s rainbow, she would have offered the same insults as Aria and Adagio. She had certainly treated Snips and Snails like slaves for nearly a year.

”Adagio became furious when I told her that we needed to make the best of this, that we need help because we didn’t even know what we were with our pendants destroyed.” Sonata stopped crying and looked up. “I asked her if we were still Sirens, but without our powers. I know I’m not as smart as she is, but when I asked her if we had become humans, she snapped. She punched me in the face, threw me to the ground and hit and kicked me until Aria pulled her off.”

Sonata pulled up the sweatshirt from her waist a bit to show another ugly bruise across her ribs, this one worse than the one on her face. “They stomped off, leaving me in the alley. That was Saturday night. The school was locked, or I would have hidden here earlier.”

Sunset sat down on the bench. Like her cutie mark, her emotions were two sides of a single whole. One side of her wanted to exact revenge on this enemy that had nearly destroyed all that she held dear in this world. That side of her reveled in Sonata’s distress and the consequences of her evil actions. The other side remembered Twilight’s lavender hand reaching down into the crater and pulling her out, remembered the softness, long ago, of being embraced by white feathers.

“Okay, here’s what we’re going to do. You and I are going to go to Nurse Redheart and get you checked out. I’m not sure what she can do for you, but I know that I healed from minor injuries a lot faster than those who were born here. A little human medical skill could go a long way.”

“I guess.”

“Next question. You look like you haven’t eaten or slept since the Battle of the Bands, am I right?” Sunset asked.

“Uh-huh.”

“Fine, go to sleep in the nurse’s office, and I’ll bring you some food from the cafeteria when it opens at lunch. I know she won’t wake you up and send you back to class, since you’re hurt this badly. I’ll track you down by the end of the school day and check in on you.”

Sonata mustered up a weak smile. “That sounds good.”

“Then let’s go.”

While Applejack would have been angry with her, a little stretching of the truth went a long way with Nurse Redheart. Fortunately, Sonata knew enough to keep her mouth shut while Sunset spun a tale about an unlikely accident. But, she achieved her goal, and the nurse, with her hat perfectly positioned on her head, admitted the patient and began her examination. Dismissed by the medical provider, Sunset exited the office and checked the large clock on the wall. It wasn’t quite time for lunch, but if she hurried, she’d be able to grab some hot food, take it back to Sonata and still have her entire lunch period with the other girls.

“Too bad for Sonata it’s not Taco Tuesday, but I don’t think she’ll complain,” mused Sunset to herself as Granny Smith gave her an extra-large helping and a conspiratorial wink. Grabbing a couple of apples for herself, she delivered lunch. Nurse Redheart placed a finger to her lips and pointed to a peacefully sleeping Sonata Dusk. She smiled, shrugged and returned to the cafeteria just in time for the bell to ring.

Taking her normal place at the lunch table, Sunset waited for her friends to arrive. She pulled the Equestrian book with the sunburst on the cover out of her bag and set it carefully on the table, while idly munching an apple with the other hand.

Pinkie Pie, her tray piled high with four desserts and with no discernible nutrition to be seen, bounded down to the end of the table, nearly creating a frosting avalanche in the process.

“Can you believe what Granny Smith gave me? No mystery food today! It’s the four Pinkie Pie Super Duper Looper Food Groups! Cupcakes, Pies, Candy and Donuts! Everything has extra frosting on it!” exclaimed the curly-headed dynamo. “Hey, I haven’t seen you all day. The last I heard…”

“…is that you skipped out of Ms. Raven’s class with that blue, two-legged excuse for a fruit bat,” declared Applejack disapprovingly in her country twang. “I’m warning you, that girl is more trouble than a tractor with a bum clutch.” She pushed her hat further back on her head, deep green eyes keenly appraising Sunset Shimmer.

“I think she did the right thing, Applejack!” stated an unusually firm Fluttershy, brushing a lock of hair from her face. “That girl was hurt, and no matter what she tried to do to us in the past, she needed help and Sunny gave it to her!”

“Please don’t call me that, Fluttershy,” groaned Sunset Shimmer.

A loud voice interrupted, “Yeah? From the sounds of it, she may need to balance her face, and I’m thinking I might be the one to do it if she even thinks about singing anywhere close to me!” Rainbow Dash turned her chair around and sat down, leaning forward against the back. “Come on! You got zapped with a magic blast from a hundred-foot-tall alicorn! Don’t come around here no more, Sonata, and take the rest of your terrible trio with you.”

“Rainbow Dash! Such rudeness,” lectured a perfectly-coiffed Rarity as she completed the group. “While I have little liking for the Dazzlings, magical powers or no, we have to support our friend’s judgment.” Rarity looked meaningfully at Sunset Shimmer. “And I think this is the part where you tell us what happened, darling.”

Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to continue arguing playfully, but stopped when she looked at Sunset and saw a combination of impatience and discomfort. She covered it with a quick, “Yeah, spill the beans!”

She told the story as completely as she could. The five girls went from skeptical, to interested, and finally to varying degrees of understanding.

“So, basically, you bought time for us to figure out what we should really do with Sonata,” summed up Applejack, with a much warmer tone in her voice than before.

“It was sort of impulse, AJ. What do you think we should do next?”

Rainbow Dash interjected, “We? I’m not so sure about that…”

“Quiet, you,” Applejack halted Rainbow Dash's tirade before it gained momentum. “I’m not having Sonata sleep on the streets or in the library or something after that. No offense to Twilight, but there’s no way I could do that for three nights in a row. There’s plenty of room at the farm, and we could put her up for a few days, but only if she behaves.”

“Applejack, do you mind if I come along and help keep an eye on her?” Sunset, with no parents or family of her own in this world, often rotated between her friends’ homes to avoid a tiny efficiency apartment that held too many reminders of bad choices in the past.

“Not at all, Sunset, but you know I’m going to put you to work. If nothing else, it keeps you from looking at my brother too closely,” laughed Applejack.

“Okay. That’s settled for now. But, that’s still not the most amazing thing that happened today. I have to show this to you all. I used the book, and it worked!” Sunset’s excitement caused the others to lean forward in anticipation. “But, I don’t know what to make of it quite yet. I didn’t expect Twilight to write back so quickly, and then, well, it’s been quiet.”

“Let’s have a look, then. Besides, she is the Princess of Friendship now. Just be glad she hasn’t delegated her writing to that cute little dog, Spike,” giggled Rarity.

All six pored over Twilight’s response. Sunset Shimmer wasn’t quite ready yet to show them the page containing her initial letter. She still wanted something private to share with Twilight, as a fellow Equestrian and skilled magic user.

Fluttershy was the first to break the silence. “Um, I don’t know much about magic other than when we play our music, but something felt stronger and a bit different when you sang with us and defeated the Dazzlings,” her voice dropped to a whisper. “Maybe Twilight is on to something.”

Pinkie went through impossible facial contortions offering her explanation. “Well you were bad. Then you were REALLLY bad! Then you were a demon and KERBLAMMO, you got zapped by the same magic you were wearing on your head, plus some from Equestria. Then you kinda, sorta had nothing for a while. Next thing you know you were good, you stopped us from fighting, and then you…”

“...were AWESOME by picking up the mike and raining down musical justice on those harpies,” interrupted Rainbow Dash.

“But, we still have more questions than answers, my dear,” added Rarity. “We can’t control the little magic we have without Twilight, and since this has only happened to you once, Sunset, we don’t know how this works for you.”

Sunset Shimmer shrugged her leather-clad shoulders. “Well, there’s only one way to find out. Band practice. Tomorrow. But, we need to get Sonata settled first.” A disturbing thought passed through her head. “And we need to learn if Adagio and Aria still pose a threat to her or to us. Their magic may seem to be gone, but there are plenty of awful things they can do without magic. Trust me on that.”

With that declaration, the big book in the center of the table buzzed, and the sunburst in the center of the cover flared briefly.

“Ooooooh!!! OPENITNOWANDREADIT!!!” screamed an uncontainable Pinkie Pie.

“Pinkie, that doesn’t help us keep this between us,” cautioned Sunset Shimmer.

Her eyes narrowed as she looked all around the room. Placing an arm around her shoulders, Pinkie stage whispered, “Okay. I understand. It’s a SEEEE-CRET!”

Rolling her eyes, she opened the book:

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

I’m very sorry for such a short reply earlier. We are rebuilding Ponyville, and there are so many ponies counting on me and my friends here right now that it’s overwhelming. To be honest, I’d much rather go to my new library and research what happened with you, adding to what I know as the Elements of Harmony. It’s complicated, but the Elements aren’t as mobile as they used to be. Anyway, Celestia warned me that I would have less time for research as others depended on me more, but I assure you I will set aside time for you.

First, please tell the girls from Canterlot High that I miss them already and will find a better time to visit. Their Equestrian counterparts are trying to figure out musical instruments because of the stories I’ve told them, but I don’t think that pony hooves are made for human basses, guitars or tambourines. Pinkie, of course, has found a way to play the drums. Nopony has slept in days.

Second, as you probably figured out, Equestria had a major problem a few moons ago and we’re still rebuilding and recovering. The other three Princesses were captured for a time and unspeakable damage was done to several cities. I have closed the portal to Equestria on my end, not just to prevent curious CHS students from wandering into this world and causing confusion, but also for their safety. If they got out of the castle, it’s likely they’d have more problems than adjusting to hooves, wings and horns.

Finally, I will spend as much time as I can to figure out your link to the six Elements of Harmony and why you were able to join with them – and us. Your decisions to turn from shadow to light are important, or the Tree of Harmony, which is where the Elements are now kept, wouldn’t have permitted your transformation. My hypothesis is that the Tree judged you redeemed and granted you power across worlds. This is potentially dangerous. Even with the portal shut, a great deal of Equestrian magic has now leaked from here into a previously no-magic world. I have an idea of what you and the Rainbooms can do with that power source, but since Starswirl the Bearded thought your world to be an ideal dumping ground for dangerous magical creatures, I worry what else might be masquerading as a human.

Please write again soon. More data and observations help us both.

Yours in friendship,
Twilight Sparkle

Author's Note

Thank you all for the great reception to and support of this story! I hope that now that I'm starting to get into the meat of the plot that I can get things right and continually improve.

I have travel and other real life obligations over the next few days, so please forgive me if I have to let us all hang on the cliff a little longer.

Please offer your constructive criticism, feedback, and (if earned) your encouragement! Stand a taut watch out there, shipmates!

Original author comments remain from October 2014. Minor grammar and dialogue editing completed on 11/28/2014

Chapter Three

“Aria, follow the girl. I’m going to stay here and watch. Don’t let her see you and I’ll meet you back at our place,” Adagio Dazzle ordered.

“I’m not so sure we should split up, Adagio. Maybe it would be better if we…” One glance at the Siren’s seething magenta eyes caused Aria to change her tone, “Forget it. I’ll tell you what I find out.” With a quick twirl of her purple and teal pigtails, she quietly moved toward the main road and Apple Bloom. After about fifty yards, Aria glanced back but couldn’t locate Adagio in the moonlight.

Aria pressed on, quickly gaining ground on the younger girl while still remaining silent and concealed. She was glad to have a task to concentrate on, because beneath the surface, her emotions were a boiling cauldron. Simple Sonata had set off Adagio three days ago.

“Adagio, what do we do now?” Aria remembered Sonata’s pleading question. Of course, she wondered the same thing, but it was always easier to let Sonata take the brunt of their leader’s anger. Adagio’s silent fury was fed by the constant barrage of questions, which she still hadn’t answered. The three Sirens had always moved from place to place for hundreds of years, together sowing mistrust and hostility. Once they restored themselves with negative emotions, they would disappear to find a new place to feed. Adagio always had a backup plan, except this time.

Aria still couldn’t shake the shock and terror that she felt when Sonata asked Adagio if they had become human. As Adagio struck Sonata and threw her to the ground, Aria was still frozen by fright. She stared into space thinking only, Will I age as quickly as the humans and die? Sonata’s screams finally pierced the lavender-skinned girl’s mental fog.

Aria didn’t understand why she stopped Adagio and didn’t understand why then the two of them left Sonata bleeding in the alley. She remembered her leader hurling vile insults at Sonata all the while, but Aria could only think, I’m going to die. Maybe tomorrow or maybe in seventy years, but I’m going to die. Over the next two days, while Adagio fumed and plotted, thoughts of mortality ricocheted in Aria’s mind transforming her emotions from fear, to anger, and finally to white-hot fury at Sonata for revealing this awful possibility.

Despite its roots in fear, it was far easier to show anger to Adagio than to risk a beating or separation as Sonata had. The blonde Siren had always been the strongest, most capable of the three. During the Battle of the Bands, the purple-haired keytar player had unleashed a storm of diamonds at Aria’s Siren avatar, nearly breaking her song. But, Adagio rescued Aria, rallying the trio with a blistering counterattack that knocked the microphone from the lavender songstress' hands. Waiting, watching, and obeying were certainly preferable to any alternative Aria could think of.

Apple Bloom, clad in a black hoodie and carrying a backpack, walked towards Canterlot for about a half-mile. Aria watched her nimbly squeeze through a small gap in a chain link fence and enter a forested area. Following fifty yards or more behind, it was tough to find the path that the teenager followed, but fortunately for her pursuer, once through the fence, Apple Bloom was much less cautious. A rough trail wound through maple trees for about a quarter-mile and reached a clearing. Aria slipped to the side of the path and dropped to the ground, her mouth opening in wonder.

Before her was an improbable sight. A small cottage stood in the clearing, obviously built from a mix of materials from the surrounding forest and foraged items from Sweet Apple Acres. Aria watched Apple Bloom retrieve a flashlight from her backpack and quietly enter through the only door. Stealthily taking cover behind a large log about twenty feet from the cottage, she was able to hear a conversation inside the cottage.

“Scootaloo, wake up!”

“I was just restin’ my eyes,” a sleepy voice grumbled then snapped to full awareness. “I’m so glad you made it! I couldn’t do this without you tonight!” A pause and a rustle of fabric indicated a hug to Aria’s keen ears.

“I brought you some leftovers. Granny Smith made way more dinner than usual tonight,” Apple Bloom unzipped the backpack.

“Mmmmm….” Scootaloo moaned with delight as she noisily ate, “Delicious!” Aria’s stomach grumbled sympathetically. She had been able to steal some lunch, but that was nearly twelve hours ago.

“You’re not going to believe who Applejack brought home today!”

“Rainbow Dash?” Scootaloo asked excitedly, “I’ve been waiting for those two to get together!”

“No, it’s not like that,” answered Apple Bloom with a shake of her head, “She brought Sunset Shimmer home for the night and Sonata, that new blue-haired girl from the Battle of the Bands!”

“What?”

“Yeah, and something happened when Sonata was taking a bath. She came outside on the porch with me and was really spacy,” recalled Apple Bloom

Scootaloo raised an eyebrow. “Isn’t Sonata spacy all the time?”

Behind the log, Aria rolled her eyes. “Yeah, but this was different and more serious. I guess that something I said made her happy. Sonata gave me a big hug, rushed upstairs, and they all went to sleep in Applejack’s room.”

Finishing the food, Scootaloo said, “That’ll be a story that your sister won’t want to tell! Maybe you can get it out of Sunset Shimmer tomorrow. Okay, I picked the flowers this evening and arranged them here in the clubhouse.”

Apple Bloom asked her friend, “Are you sure you’re ready to do this?”

Scootaloo said firmly, “It’ll be tough. But, we need to do this together. I need to do this with you,” Aria heard the sound of the backpack being zipped and the door to the clubhouse being opened.

Aria remained motionless until the two girls passed her. The familiar figure of Apple Bloom was side by side with a second young teenager with light orange skin and short reddish-purple hair.

“They were in a band together,” Aria thought, “I can’t remember the name…”

Aria followed the two girls back to the gap in the fence, where they crossed the road into a more populated area on the outskirts of Canterlot. Oblivious to the fact they were being followed, they stuck to the shadows but continued to move purposefully. Spotty trees gave way to an open meadow, dew starting to coalesce on the blades of grass. Again, the smell of flowering trees permeated the early spring evening. Aria saw a large structure at the end of the meadow, cringing involuntarily, as it appeared to be a temple or a human place of worship.

Scootaloo gave Apple Bloom’s hand a squeeze, and the two continued towards the stone structure. As the moon emerged from behind a cloud, Aria saw dozens of small markers arranged in rows on one end of the temple’s grounds. She crept as close as she dared, and listened closely as her quarry approached a section of the stones with practiced certainty.

Apple Bloom took off her backpack, opened it and took out four bundles of flowers. Even in the dim moonlight, Aria could see that the colors were dazzling and blooms rare and beautiful. Handing two of the bouquets to Scootaloo, she approached a specific stone, marble lovingly carved into the shape of a three-foot-tall apple.

“Ma, Pa, tonight it’s been ten years since I last saw you,” said Scootaloo, struggling to stand up straight.

Aria gasped. There was still much about the human world that she had ignored in disdain or hunger. Realizing that the red-haired girl was speaking to her dead parents, she continued to eavesdrop.

Apple Bloom continued, her voice shaking with emotion. “I was barely more than a baby, but I miss you more every day. I wish I could tell you about the boys I like, and even simple stuff like how boring school can be,” Apple Bloom’s big bow bobbed with an enormous sniff, “Granny is taking great care of us and I know you’re very proud of Big Macintosh. But, you need to know that Applejack saved us from something awful this past weekend. All of us in Canterlot were almost killed or worse and she kept it from happening. I can’t really remember all of it, but the whole thing seemed just like magic and at the end we were all singing along with Applejack’s song.”

Aria leaned forward, captivated not just by the words, but by the passion and feeling behind them. The purity of it made her curious. She glanced over to where Scootaloo had dropped to her knees in front of a gravestone carved to resemble the sun breaking through the clouds. Head buried in her hands, the other girl was sobbing uncontrollably in grief.

Aria listened to Apple Bloom again as she said, “I love you both so much. I’m sorry for sneaking out like this because you always taught us to tell the truth and do the right thing, but I had to come by with Scootaloo tonight, since well, that’s when it happened.” She turned her head upon hearing her friend’s cries. “She’s having a rough time right now and I need to help her. Just know that every time I see a shooting star, I think of you and wish for one more day with you. I love you.”

Aria watched as Apple Bloom ran to Scootaloo and held her tight. She couldn’t make out everything, but heard enough between sobs.

“Scoots, it wasn’t your fault!” cried Apple Bloom.

“But if I hadn’t run off, they would have never gotten in the car that night! I killed your parents, too, Apple Bloom!” cried the despondent girl.

Aria Blaze touched a purple hand to her cheek and found it wet. She looked at the tears on her fingertips in confusion and disbelief, but continued to listen.

“That’s why they call it an accident! You can’t blame yourself! You’ll go crazy. I can only move ahead and be thankful that you and Sweetie Belle are the best friends I could ever hope to have,” Apple Bloom grabbed her friend by the shoulder, tipped her chin up and looked her in the eye. “Scootaloo, we have to make the best of the time we get. We didn’t get many years with our parents, but we still love them and miss them. They’d want us to make the right decisions and to follow our dreams – like you want to be an Air Force pilot and Sweetie Belle wants to be an actress. I’m sure that’s what would make them proud.” The two girls held each other again and were silent in their grief for a long time.

To die and be remembered like this... Aria thought as the tears silently dripped down her face, her fear and anger forgotten for the moment, “What is a life worth living?” she silently asked herself.

“Are you all right, Scootaloo?” asked Apple Bloom.

Aria strained her ears and barely heard the short-haired girl mumble, “…forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us…” The Siren was captivated by the prayer.

Scootaloo smiled sadly at Apple Bloom. “I’m better now. More at peace. Thanks, Apple Bloom. I couldn’t have made it here without you. I can never come here without you.”

“Then let’s get you back to the farm, Scoots. We already have two extra guests, and I’m not having you spent a cold night at the clubhouse by yourself. It’s only a bit after midnight. We’ll still get four or five good hours of sleep in a real bed,” declared Apple Bloom, smiling sadly at Scootaloo.

The two friends left the cemetery and started their long walk back to Sweet Apple Acres. Unbeknowst to them, Aria Blaze, in a tangle of emotion unfelt for centuries, was unable to rise and follow the pair, trapped in a lost memory.

Over a millennium before Canterlot High School’s Battle of the Bands

The drums boomed along the undersea road from Nautilus Hall to the Trench Gate in the great undersea realm of Aquastria. Three carriages, pulled by enslaved seaponies, slowly made their way past the throngs of mermares. Weighed down with heavy chains, the seaponies’ swimming was labored. The stern and stoic mermares watched the procession with a combination of fear, pity, and respectful admiration.

In one of the three carriages, Aria Blaze, a mermare filly, looked up at the impassive face of her mother with frightened violet eyes. Focused Blaze glanced down, but her attention remained on the road ahead. For her entire life, she had reliably served the mermare Queen. When she decreed that it was time to provide tribute to He Who Swims in Darkness, Focused knew it was her obligation to offer her eldest daughter.

The carriages stopped at a huge gate made of obsidian on the edge of a bottomless ocean trench. The seaponies swished their tails in terror, but made no other sound knowing that the punishment would be death or worse.

“Mother, I wish there was another way,” Aria said cautiously, “I will miss you.”

The merest hint of sadness came to the mermare’s eyes, but was gone in an instant. “As will I, Aria. Whatever happens below, you must endure it. Your sacrifice helps to ensure the safety and dominance of our people. Our family always does what must be done. Now it is your turn. Go, and fulfill your destiny.”

For centuries, the supreme dominance of the mermares beneath the surface of Equus’ oceans had been assured by He Who Swims in Darkness. His true name was unknown, but the priestesses’ names for him were Leviathan or Lord Kraken. What was known to every Aquastrian is that abject terror heralded his approach and that his magic was full of darkness and death. Periodically, three mermare fillies must be given to Leviathan to reseal the bargain that ensured the Queen’s reign would go unchallenged. The sacrifices were never seen again once they passed beyond the obsidian gate.

The identities of the tribute mermares were kept a secret until the last possible moment. Aria was the first to remove her cloak and swim forward to the gate. The second filly, with light blue scales and darker blue streaks on her fins glided alongside Aria. Her jewelry and keepsakes were plain and homemade, so Aria assumed she must have been from a lower-class family hoping to purchase favor with the throne.

She nervously introduced herself. “Hi, I’m Sonata Dusk.”

“I’m Aria Blaze, but it doesn’t matter since we’re going to be dead in a few minutes,” she replied.

Sonata's lilac eyes went wide with wonder. “We don’t know for sure what happens after we go through the gate. Maybe we won’t die!”

Aria gasped, “Look!” and gestured with her fin.

The third sacrifice had removed her cloak to a gasp and a cheer from the crowd. A golden-scaled mermare filly with fierce, defiant magenta eyes swam alongside her mother, who was none other than Her Imperial Majesty of the Deep, Queen Blinding Dazzle. The filly joined Aria and Sonata, pausing a half-tail forward of the other two. Of course, Princess Adagio Dazzle needed no introduction.

Without preamble, the Queen began in a magically amplified voice, “He Who Swims in Darkness, I have brought to you three gifts to ensure your protection of our underwater empire! Open your gate and take possession of them to do as you will, sealing our fates to one another as has been the tradition of centuries!

Almost immediately, the water grew cold and dark. An impenetrable inky cloud began to escape between the cracks in the great obsidian gate. The immense crowd felt chills that had nothing to do with the temperature, starting to fall victim to the horror that Leviathan brought with him whenever he appeared. As the doors began to swing outward, the power of the darkness was palpable and it took every drop of courage that Aria possessed to keep from fleeing.

A voice deeper than the roots of mountains intoned from the darkness, “Queen Dazzle, I am pleased you followed my instructions so carefully. As such, you will be rewarded,” A bit of darkness detached from the inky mass, then coalesced and formed into a jet-black trident. The weapon obediently delivered itself and floated in the water next to the Queen. “I sense that these three have the talent I demanded.”

Queen Dazzle bowed. “Yes, Powerful Master. All are possessed of remarkable skill in song, but,” adding a haughty sniff, “none more so than mine own daughter.”

The deep voice roared in triumphant laughter. “Then I will tell my subjects of my plan,” Becoming louder and even deeper, the darkness continued, “Today we go to war to dominate and enslave the earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi of the surface world. We will divide and conquer them using the tribute that I will mold like clay from the ocean’s floor! Fillies, swim to me!”

Masking their terror, the three sacrifices swam to the threshold and were consumed by the darkness. Their screams mingled with one another as intense pain ripped through their bodies and spirits. He Who Swims in Darkness transformed their very beings, infusing them with foul, ancient magic. The screams braided upon themselves into a dark harmony, a tortured song that portended distrust, failure, and anger.

“Queen Dazzle, I give you your advance vanguard that will divide our surface enemy and eliminate resistance before it begins. These mermares are no more. They are now my Sirens!”

All three mermares were now unrecognizable as such. Leviathan’s magic had left their tails in place, but had given them a front set of hooves. The most striking change to their bodies was the addition of a large, diamond-shaped crystal that was embedded in the center of their chests.

Aria heard the mermares loose a deafening cheer for the coming of war and conquest. He Who Swims in Darkness and Queen Dazzle joined the cheer with maniacal laughter. As she swam in circles with the other Sirens, Aria Blaze looked down at her mother, meeting her eyes and knowing she would make her family proud by ensuring the safety and dominance of the mermares. Focused Blaze, amid the bloodlust, stoically gave a single haughty, satisfied nod to the creature that was once her daughter from the carriage. Aria returned a twisted smile and surrendered herself to the dark song placed in her heart and the supernatural hunger gnawing at her soul.

Four days after the Battle of the Bands

Sunset Shimmer awoke to bright dawn sunlight filtering between Applejack’s curtains and the crows of Sweet Apple Acres’ roosters. Applejack had already been up for some time and was already dressed for school, silently catching up on homework while her houseguests continued sleeping. Sunset brushed her hair out of her face and stretched her arms and back as she stood.

“Good morning, Applejack!” she said, with a broad grin across her face and enthusiasm that would make Pinkie Pie envious. She shook the blonde girl’s shoulders. “I’m glad to see you slept in for once.”

Applejack stretched and replied, “I’m not complaining that Apple Bloom did the morning livestock feeding for once and gave me an extra hour in bed, but that girl looks like she didn’t get a lick of sleep last night.”

“Speaking of sleepyheads,” Sunset Shimmer pointed to Sonata Dusk’s unconscious form, “we’ve got to get her to school on time.” She gently shook the blue-haired girl, who groaned and rolled over, “Well, that’s a start.”

“Adagio, give me another ten minutes,” Sonata mumbled.

Applejack sighed. “The girl’s memory hasn’t kicked in yet, has it?”

“I have an idea,” Sunset announced playfully. Leaning down and speaking clearly into the sleeping girl’s ear, she said in a sing-song voice, “Sonaaaata, it’s Suuunset Shiiimer! Today is Tuesday, and you know what that means….”

A large lilac eye opened and a lazy smile appeared. “You mean it’s…Taco Tuesday! I’m awake. I’m awake! Where are my clothes?” Sonata Dusk sprang forth from her cocoon of blankets, blue hair sticking out in a dozen directions.

Applejack flashed her friend a knowing smile. “Sunset Shimmer, I do believe you have this girl on autopilot after last night’s troubles.”

Twenty minutes later, and with a paper bag full of apple fritters, the three older girls and a zombie-like Apple Bloom piled into Big Macintosh’s pickup truck to be dropped off at school. Sonata was smiling broadly listening to the three siblings spar back and forth during the drive and was tapping her toe to the country music blaring forth from the radio. The bruise on her cheek was less than half the size it had been the morning before. Sunset knew from her own experience that this was alarmingly fast, even for a native Equestrian.

Sunset reached into the inner pocket of her leather jacket and reassured herself that the small box containing the shards of Sonata’s crystal was still there. While her three years at Canterlot High School had deprived her of unicorn telekinesis, Sunset Shimmer had adapted amazingly well to using her hands. In the fall, she made a perfect, non-magical copy of Twlight’s Sparkle’s crown, which was virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. Sunset knew that a human master jeweler couldn’t have done as well as she had. But in the end, the crown was completely mundane. Creating a magical focus from the shards was going to prove far more difficult than the imitation Element of Magic. Even if she got that far, Sunset knew she had to make sure that whatever item she created didn’t have any malevolent side effects. Ponies and humans alike loved to take short cuts. With magic, short cuts usually ended tragically.

Squished between the two older Apples, Sunset replayed the events of last night over and over in her head. Suppressing a frown, she knew that Sonata was going to need close supervision and support. Fortunately, having others around and interested in her didn’t bother the blue-haired girl at all. But, despite her clueless, easily-led exterior, Sunset believed that Sonata had yet-untapped depths of guile. Especially nerve-wracking was the way she twirled her blue hair around her finger and giggled at the Apple siblings’ jokes while stealing glances at Big Macintosh.

Sunset sighed to herself, “How did I end up in charge of her?” Rolling her green-blue eyes, she answered herself silently, “Because she was beaten up and sobbing in the back of your class, Shimmer! And, also because you don’t want to think about what would have happened if Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie hadn’t taken a chance on you.”

As the drive continued, Sunset’s street smarts began to kick in. Even though it was ideal on its surface, she couldn’t have Sonata stay at the same place each night until the other two Dazzlings were accounted for. Rainbow Dash wouldn’t put up with her, Pinkie Pie would probably let Sonata just waltz out the front door, and Sunset wasn’t sure that Fluttershy was up to this. That left only Rarity, Applejack, and herself, which wasn’t exactly a solid safe house rotation. She’d need to plan this out with the fashionista.

Big Mac dropped the three high school students in front of the school and sped away. Sunset Shimmer took the opportunity to coach Sonata. “Okay, I want you to come with me to all of my classes for the next few days. After that, we’ll go see Vice Principal Luna and get your classes changed to something more your speed. Do you remember where your locker is?”

“Yup!” She answered cheerfully.

“Okay, get your books and a pad of paper, and then meet me in Ms. Raven’s class," instructed Sunset Shimmer.

“I’ll be there, Sunset,” leaning forward, she added with a whisper, “and thank you for helping me.” One eye closed in an enormous wink and she joined the river of students moving down the hallway.

The Rainbooms had reserved their usual practice room during the period immediately before lunch. Nominally, the six girls had study hall that period, but had permission to use it for music rehearsal.

As Sunset Shimmer and Sonata Dusk walked next to each other in the tightly-packed chaos of class change, they received a wide range of reactions from students. Trixie Lulamoon stomped off in a jealous rage. Flash Sentry narrowed his eyes in suspicion. Vinyl Scratch gave the two of them a thumbs-up and a smile. Sunset knew this was far better than should be expected.

All of a sudden, Sonata cocked her head, listened to something intently, then handed her books to Sunset saying only, “Hold this,” with (for her) an intense expression of concentration on her face. Sonata darted ahead.

As Sunset grew closer, she heard a disdainful voice scream, “I’ve had it with you and your little friends making us look bad.”

“Well, if you had actually done any work on the project, then we wouldn’t have to tell Miss Cheerilee that you left us hanging!” returned Apple Bloom.

Diamond Tiara, alongside her co-tormentor Silver Spoon, had the Apple Bloom pinned against a row of lockers. Diamond Tiara screamed in rage, “You arrogant hick! I should tell my daddy to foreclose on that farm once and for all. You Apples wouldn’t be so proud living out of cardboard boxes!”

With all eyes on Apple Bloom and the two wealthy girls, only Sunset Shimmer noticed Sonata sneak up, remove Diamond Tiara’s electronic tablet from her backpack and place it in Silver Spoon’s oversized purse. Her jaw dropping, Sunset then saw the blue-haired girl nimbly unclasp an ornate silver necklace from Silver Spoon’s neck and toss it down the hallway. Apple Bloom was nearing the point of fight or flight, her jaw and fists clenching as Diamond Tiara’s diatribe reached new insulting heights.

Sonata interrupted, “Wow, your tablet looks just like that other girl’s! Can I see?”

Diamond Tiara’s wheeled around in confusion and anger. “What the hell are you talking about?”

Sonata continued innocently, as if the other girl hadn’t even spoken. “And, you really shouldn’t have ripped off her pretty necklace,” she said, pointing at Silver Spoon’s bare neck.

The two friends started to argue with one another, which gave Apple Bloom a chance to get away. As the enormous red bow retreated down the hallway to safety, Sunset Shimmer caught up to Sonata and guided her by the arm towards the music room. Fortunately, they were the first to arrive.

“What was that all about?” Sunset asked in exasperation.

With a self-satisfied smile, Sonata replied, “That was helping out a friend in trouble. Applejack’s sister helped me last night and I needed to return the favor.”

Setting her bag down and wiping her face with one hand, Sunset skewered the other girl with her green-blue eyes, “You pickpocketed Diamond Tiara, planted evidence on Silver Spoon and ripped off her necklace. You forced the two of them to argue! Doesn’t that sound awfully familiar to you?”

Sonata shrugged her shoulders. “I only tried to help!”

Sunset Shimmer shook her red-and-gold streaked hair from side to side and made an effort to calm herself. “Sonata, your heart was in the right place. It is good to help people in trouble. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen you do anything for someone else. But don’t help people by doing bad things, like stealing and making people fight, unless you have no other options, all right?”

Confused, she answered simply, “Okay.”

Sunset stepped forward and put a hand on a blue-skinned shoulder. “I’ll chalk it up as a step in the right direction,” as the others began to enter and set up their instruments. Sonata gave a sheepish smile in return.

Rainbow Dash reacted exactly as Sunset had anticipated, “Whoa, whoa, whoa! I didn’t expect her to be here today. I’m not so sure this is a good idea.”

Thankfully, Applejack was way ahead of Sunset Shimmer. “Hold on there, Rainbow Dash. We had a heart-to-heart last night at the farm. Sonata’s going to need some help, but I think it’ll be good for her to hear a band that sings about good things for a change. Besides, there’s no point to hide the magic anymore,” interjected Applejack, moving to stand next to Sonata.

“I want a pool party!!!” yelled Pinkie Pie randomly as she beat on the bass drum, dispelling all of Sonata’s worries.

“Whew, that was a close one,” whispered Fluttershy to Rarity.

“Darling, you have no idea just how close,” she replied seriously. “We have a tightrope to walk between those two,” glancing at Sonata and Sunset, “and this one,” gazing at Rainbow Dash.

As they finished setting up their instruments, Fluttershy spoke up. “Sunset, could you please sing Twilight’s part of the song we sang at the Battle of the Bands? We’ll need to write some guitar parts for you later, but I’d love to hear that song again.”

Pinkie Pie jumped in. “Sonata, we don’t want to make you mad! Are you going to be okay with us playing that one? I love it, but I’m not you!”

“No offense intended, dear,” added Rarity.

“None taken,” Sonata Dusk replied, shrugging her shoulders. Sunset Shimmer suppressed a self-satisfied smile.

The Rainbooms sang with Sunset Shimmer taking the lead:

Oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
I've got the music in me
Oh-oh, oh-oh-oh

Don't need to hear a crowd
Cheering out my name
I didn't come here seeking Infamy or fame

The one and only thing
That I am here to bring
Is music, is the music
Is the music in my soul

Just as during the Battle of the Bands, as the whole band joined the song in earnest, the magic within them burst forth, adding Equestrian ears to all six band members and wings to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Sunset Shimmer, again overcome with homesickness and emotion, sang with tears of joy streaming down her face.

Sonata watched raptly, mouth slightly open and eyes scarcely blinking. Her right hand strayed to her throat, finding nothing to grasp.

Gonna break out (Out!)
Set myself free, yeah
Let it all go (Go!)
Just let it be, yeah

Find the music in your heart
Let the music make you start
To set yourself apart

After the song finished, Rainbow Dash hugged Sunset Shimmer. “It still works!” she cried, setting down her blue guitar carefully, “You still get your ears and longer hair! Your magic is back!”

Sunset Shimmer’s body was still tingling with the resonance of magical energy, even though the song had ended. After being without it for so long, she was having difficulty focusing. Glancing at Sonata, who had her arms crossed over her chest protectively, she forced herself to remember that she was the odd one out just a few days ago. She had to redirect her friends’ enthusiasm. “I’m so happy that we’re all friends after everything that’s happened! But, before we start another song or get too deep into the love fest, I need to do a little planning. Sonata, have you met Rarity?”

“Not really, Sunset Shimmer,” she replied, crossing her alabaster arms across her chest.

“Rarity, Sonata. Sonata, Rarity,” she said with a sardonic grin. “Good, now we can move on. Rarity, do you have anything planned tonight at the boutique?”

Pinkie Pie leapt to her feet. “Wait! I get it! We have to keep our secret agent,“ she extended a pink index finger in Sonata’s direction, “completely hidden from the bad guys. So, we need to move her around all over the place.” Pinkie ramped up the drama, hiding behind different parts of her drum set. “One night, she’s concealed at the farm. The next, squirreled away at the dress show. Finally, she finds a new home with the bakers and candy makers!!! Yay!!! Happy ending!!!” she cried, spreading her arms wide and giving the confused Siren a bear hug that took her breath away.

“One night at a time, Pinkie, dear,” cooed Rarity. “Sunset, I would be delighted to host you and Sonata tonight,” looking at Sonata's bruise she added, “Perhaps I can give you a makeover to hide what’s left of that nasty injury. Let’s meet in the library after school lets out.”

“Thank you, Rarity,” said Sonata, “I know you’re all trying to keep me safe. Can I ask a question?”

“Of course,” answered Fluttershy.

“When do I get to eat tacos?”

All seven girls laughed loudly until Applejack finally answered. “After one more song, Sonata. Let’s play ‘Shake Your Tail’ to work up an appetite and then we’ll get down to the cafeteria.”

Without an instrument to put away, and with Pinkie Pie looking after Sonata (cheerfully extolling the virtues of sugary taco toppings), Sunset Shimmer was the first to arrive at their usual cafeteria table. During rehearsal, she had felt the book tingle with magic from across the room, and was eager to hear from Twilight. It was vital that this book stay secret from Sonata, so she seized the opportunity and opened the large Equestrian volume on to her lap. Looking down, she read:

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

I’m very sorry but this must be another short reply. I only have the opportunity to give you some vague impressions along with some direct advice.

First, as the Princess of Friendship, I am happy to learn you’re caring for Sonata, but am concerned about how long she has lived in darkness. There are others that have returned from the shadow, but all have required help to set themselves on the path of light once more. I must trust your judgment on how much freedom you give her, but be very careful.

Second, it’s encouraging that Sonata surrendered her shards. I will research magical items and cleansing curses. I will help you, because it’s what friends do, but I must consult with Princess Celestia. I have an idea on how to send you more tangible help, but that sort of help is mercurial at best. The bottom line is that I advise you to be cautious. Celestia mentioned that you were on track to be the most talented artificer in hundreds of years, but these items can be used to terrible effect in both Equestria and your world.

We’re in uncharted territory. The dangers in Equestria are mounting. Starswirl the Bearded is gone, and neither Celestia nor Luna have been forthcoming about the obstacles they encountered until these dangers reappear. I have dispatched an envoy to King Leo of the Aquastrians to request books from his archives, but this is a long shot. Forgive the rambling, but I must talk to Fluttershy about whether my idea to help you has any chance of working. Leadership is tough, and the only thing that I am certain of in this letter is that all of Canterlot High School needs you right now.

Yours in friendship,
Princess Twilight Sparkle

Closing the book, Sunset Shimmer took a long drink of water and mumbled to herself, “Well, what did you expect, Shimmer? A scanned and e-mailed copy of the Canterlot Arcane Forge’s historical records? I see she’s annoyed or worried enough to sign with her title again. This is going to have to wait.”

Resolving to get through another night with Sonata before replying to Twilight, Sunset Shimmer put the oaken tome away, warmly greeted her friends and enjoyed Sonata and Pinkie Pie trying to top each others’ silliness as they ate tacos.

Adagio Dazzle felt the tumblers give way with a resounding “click”, and opened the door to a nondescript, cheap efficiency apartment. The dim, dirty room was neglected and appeared as if it had not been lived in for a couple of weeks.

A devious, hateful grin twisting her beautiful face, Adagio addressed the empty room. “So, Sunset Shimmer, let’s see what sins you’ve locked away here.”

Author's Note

First, I would like to note that I drew my Aquastrian content heavily from Mary Jane Begin's "My Little Pony: Under the Sparkling Sea". It's a book that I have enjoyed reading to my four-and-a-half year old daughter, and I'm sure that they were wrapped up in the epic events that shaped Equestria.

I'd also like to extend a special thanks to IsabellaAmoreSirenix and Cryosite for their constructive feedback on Chapter Two. I hope Chapter Three is a better effort. Also, I did my best to omit any reference of a specific religion, but couldn't do so completely. A lot of passion went into the cemetery scene, so I appreciate your feedback if my heart overruled my head to the point where it hurt the plot.

Please accept my deepest thanks for your feedback and support and I hope you enjoyed this chapter!

Minor edits made on 12/20/2014 to correct grammatical mistakes.

Chapter Four

Adagio Dazzle scanned Sunset Shimmer’s tiny, disheveled apartment with an appraising eye. A thin coat of dust covered every surface, and despite the midday sun outside, light-blocking curtains ensured the single room’s interior danced with shadows. An aged brown sleeper-sofa dominated the room in its “bed” position, with a pile of red, yellow, and black clothing pushed over to one side. A rickety wooden ladder and ancient ironing board rested against one another in the far corner of the room. Adagio, her stomach grumbling, carefully opened the cupboards near the stove where a single small pot sat.

“Noodles? Sunset, how very human of you.” Adagio sneered at the half-eaten case of cheap Ramen. She was angry and very nearly humiliated that her non-magical appetite demanded that she consume some food. The Siren grudgingly started the mundane process of boiling water on the stove. Continuing her inspection of the apartment, she found nothing else of interest to her appetite or curiosity inside the kitchenette. Turning back to the bed, she climbed over the pile of clothes to reach the writing desk and sat in a wobbly chair.

In the top drawer, she found evidence of Sunset Shimmer’s growing friendship with the five musicians that had defeated her. With growing condescension, envy and anger, Adagio found a large, felt sock amid the collection of notes and photo booth snapshots. Inside, carefully wrapped in a stained handkerchief with an apple embroidered on it, were a set of valuable custom earrings, a rainbow-colored aviator’s scarf, an empty candy box and a piece of paper folded to look like a flying insect. Snorting in disdain, Adagio pocketed the jewelry and wrapped the other items back into the handkerchief, frustrated she had not yet found anything useful.

We were so close! she thought in fury and disappointment.

There was never any question that Adagio would be the unchallenged leader of the three Sirens. Even in those few years she spent as a mermare before her transformation by He Who Swims in Darkness, the princess became infamous for her cruel devotion to her royal duties. In the unforgiving Aquastrian Empire, Adagio Dazzle spotted weaknesses in the courtiers and nobles and used the few words she was permitted in her mother’s court to masterfully inflame divisions and destroy opposition. There were whispers among the nobility that Queen Blinding Dazzle would soon meet with an accident to clear the way for her committed, ambitious and ruthless daughter.

Adagio was guided by her mother, who continually spoke to her of “my people” and “your future daughters”, focused upon two things. The first was duty. Building and maintaining the security, supremacy and strength of the mermares was vitally important. For generations, the monarchy was continually preparing for battle, ridding the Empire of the weak, crushing internal dissent and enslaving lesser races such as the seaponies. The second focus, and this she proudly displayed as her unique gift to the Empire, was her talent for song. The haunting undersea melodies Adagio learned to sing without accompaniment told stories of the importance of obedience, the penalty for failure and the need to meet obligations to the Crown. At her mother’s urging, her songs compelled the strong to dominate the weak in service to the Queen.

As a Siren, her commitment to her mother and to the mermares easily shifted to the demands of He Who Swims in Darkness. Adagio sternly proved herself able in the field leading the other two Sirens, composing songs that amplified fear, created uncertainty and caused long-forgotten disagreements to ignite among the surface races. They grew powerful upon the negative emotions they sowed as the Aquastrian army readied their invasion. But, Adagio and her Master grew too confident, dispatching the Sirens far inland in an attempt to destroy the pair of alicorn sisters rumored to rule Equestria. The unicorn mage, Starswirl the Bearded, used an icy, mountainous land of mirrors in a desperate bid to reflect their magic against them. The use of the Equestrian rulers as bait proved successful in the ensuing battle, with Starswirl somehow redirecting their innate magic to banish them to the human world, but not before Adagio had been able to infect the younger of the two alicorns with a seed of primal jealousy for the other.

Adagio shrugged off thoughts of the thousand years since, which were dominated by confusion, hunger, and separation from the power of He Who Swims in Darkness. Most galling to the exile was her inability to directly impact the mermares. During the times when the Sirens’ arcane hunger turned to starvation, the Sirens were forced into dreamless magical hibernation. The longest such slumber lasted two hundred years, but despite their disorientation, they were able to preserve their eternal youth and wait for an opportunity to serve their Master.

From the moment they left the Canterlot snack shop and saw the Equestrian magic flare light up the sky, Adagio knew their moment had come. They could, at last, absorb enough magic to rip open the fabric between worlds by brute force and reach the side of He Who Swims in Darkness once again, delivering this world as a prize. Her improbable defeat at the Battle of the Bands had left her broken, vengeful and unpredictable. To touch the pinnacle of her innate magic, then to have it immediately snatched away caused Adagio to be more desperate than at any other point in her thousand-year exile.

The water on the stove had begun to boil, with steam starting to fill the room. She clambered back over the bed to the stove and dropped the block of noodles into the water. Adagio’s thoughts turned to the other two Sirens. Sonata would, unwittingly as usual, serve her purpose. Humans liked Sonata. The males, in particular, were drawn to her for some reason, making her an ideal distraction. With their magical harmony broken, Adagio Dazzle certainly took pleasure in administering a good beating to her after a thousand years of inane questions, idiotic statements and blank stares. This time, Sonata hit the center of Adagio’s anger.

“Are we human now?” she could still hear Sonata whimper, looking at her expectantly for answers.

Adagio quietly addressed the quiet room with clenched fists. “We are Sirens. Not humans. Never humans. We use them and their capacity for conflict until we can return.” A whisper of a nearly-forgotten-self added, “You are a mermare and a princess…”

Adagio ran a hand through her long orange-tinted curls to clear her head. Aria’s overnight absence was a concern. She thought, Where are you? Where did you follow that girl to, and why haven’t you returned to our hiding place?

While not knowing exactly how the defeat had affected Aria, Adagio trusted in the purple-haired Siren's stubbornness and dedication. Aria Blaze's quarry, a mere girl, would prove no threat.

Adagio checked the noodles bubbling in the pot. They were ready, so she carefully poured the boiling water into the sink. The steam stung her eyes, so she looked upward, to see the vapor escape into a small hole in the ceiling. Forgetting the food for a moment, she grinned in triumph.

“So, Sunset Shimmer, you’re hiding something after all!” Adagio muttered with a note of self-satisfaction.

The Siren grabbed the ladder and expertly found the cutout between the ceiling and the building’s room and found a treasure trove. The small compartment held a surprisingly heavy metal box. Cataloguing its contents on the tiny kitchenette counter, Adagio found a small notebook, mini photo album, a tin full of cell phone chips, three disposable cell phones, an electronic device marked “for law enforcement use only” and a razor-sharp butterfly knife with accompanying whetstone. A false bottom in the box hid many thousands of dollars in cash, seventeen ten-ounce bars of gold and fingernail-sized fragments of expertly cut, nearly flawless amethysts.

The final item appeared to be a nondescript makeup compact, but when Adagio’s fingers touched it, she felt the resonance of powerful magic. Popping it open, she looked into the mirror, and gasped in shock. Concentrating, Adagio Dazzle looked thorough Sunset Shimmer's scrying device to view an ornate, white marble throne room, full of earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns happily going about the castle’s midday business. She bared her teeth in fury as she caught sight of the crowned figure upon the throne – the archenemy of her Master – the snowy-white alicorn with the flowing multi-colored mane and the sigil of the Sun upon her flank.

“Pinkie Pie, thank you soooo much for teaching me about your favorite drink!” Sonata Dusk giggled and fidgeted, “This is delicious and I feel great!”

“I just had to share everything that’s fantasteriffic about a quadruple-shot marshmallow fudge mocha with extra whip!” squealed Pinkie Pie.

Rarity and Sunset Shimmer joined the group by squeezing into the last booth in the back of Sugarcube Corner, which was ironically the same one that the Dazzlings sat in on the night of CHS’ Fall Formal.

“Pinkie! I asked you to get Sonata a snack after school while Rarity and I ran a couple of errands! This,” Sunset Shimmer said, waving her hand at the detritus of six coffee drinks, four slices of pie, two pieces of cake and an unknown number of cookies, “looks like…”

“A You’re Not Evil Any More Party!” interrupted Pinkie with a toothy grin. She flung two handfuls of multi-colored confetti in the air for emphasis. Sonata, taking another long drink of caffeine and sugar, just smiled and rocked back and forth.

“This might be the last time I leave the two of you unsupervised for an hour,” grumbled Sunset Shimmer, half zipping her leather jacket.

“Oh, she’s been wonderful to me, Sunset! I just told her that I was a bit hungry and Pinkie kept bringing all this wonderful, yummy food,” Sonata’s eyes were wide with childlike, sugar-boosted enthusiasm. “I didn’t sing at all. I didn’t steal anything. I tried to say thank you, but my mouth was always full.”

Sunset Shimmer put her face in both her hands.

“Sunset Shimmer, dear,” said Rarity, placing a hand excitedly on the other girl’s arm, “she’ll need all that energy for all that I have planned at the boutique!”

Annoyed, she grabbed everyone in a big bear hug and brought their heads close together. “What part of 'low profile' do you girls not understand? Recap alert: We’re not out of the woods yet. We don’t know where Adagio and Aria are. I don’t want anything bad happening to her,” jabbing a finger at Sonata, “which means that I’m trying not to say anything I might regret to you,” as Sunset double-pointed to Rarity and Pinkie Pie.

“I understand the need for caution, darling,” replied Rarity, “but you needn’t be so serious about this. The two of us will take great care of Sonata tonight and we’ll get a chance to propose a longer term plan to the others. Just leave everything to me,” she added with a warm smile.

With a glance at Sonata’s smiling face, Sunset Shimmer locked eyes with Rarity and returned her grin with a much less confident one. “That’s what scares me, Rarity.”

Escaping Sugarcube Corner by sunset took the intervention of both Mr. and Mrs. Cake and a call to Applejack, who was glad to help Sunset Shimmer get Sonata to Rarity’s. It seemed that Pinkie Pie’s immediate help was needed to receive a shipment of Apple Family pastries in the back of the store. Though it stretched Applejack’s sense of propriety, she showed up in Big Mac’s pickup truck with six fritters, two pies, and a cobbler. She called it a “shipment” with a mostly straight face to lure the pink-haired dynamo away from Sonata, but all the items didn’t even cover the truck’s passenger seat.

Rarity lived with her sister Sweetie Belle in the upper floors of the Carousel Boutique. Their parents lived in another city and visited infrequently. Ostensibly, the store was managed by Elegant Ensemble, a pretty, willowy fashion consultant in her mid-thirties, who also doubled as Rarity and Sweetie Belle’s legal guardian in Canterlot. But, it was an open secret that Rarity was the force behind the store’s success, designing her own fashion lines and shrewdly marketing them. Rarity’s theatrics about her appearance and her preference for the spotlight often concealed her thoughtful and generous nature. For example, only her closest friends knew that she made such a steep profit on her work for Canterlot’s upper crust that she essentially gave away other elements of her line to more modest customers, particularly CHS students. Of course, the beautiful, image-conscious girl could be difficult and stubborn in her way, but Sunset Shimmer considered it a relief that Rarity’s flaws were more visible and thus more easily avoided than those of others.

“Welcome to the Carousel Boutique,” announced Rarity to Sunset and Sonata, spreading her arms wide. “It’s just divine to have you here at last! Sonata, dear, please follow me upstairs and I’ll show you to the guest room.”

The two girls disappeared up a rear staircase, leaving Sunset Shimmer to make idle small talk with Elegant Ensemble, who was at the cash register preparing to close the store for the day.

“Sunset Shimmer, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen you here,” mentioned the older woman. “Didn’t I fit you for a dress that you wore to Sophomore Prom when you were escorted by Flash Sentry?” she asked knowingly.

“Yes, Ms. Ensemble. That was a beautiful gown and I’m grateful for all the work you put into it,” answered Sunset Shimmer.

The pretty blonde woman raised a questioning eyebrow and asked, “But the two of you stopped being an item a while ago, correct?”

Nervously scratching the back of her neck, Sunset replied, “Yeah, we were um, growing in different directions last summer and it just didn’t work out.”

“Ah, young love.” Elegant Ensemble sighed and stepped out from behind the counter. “Over the phone, Rarity couldn’t stop talking about you and your friend coming to visit. I know she’s very excited.” Eyeing her leather jacket and orange T-shirt, the saleswoman continued, “Our spring and summer line has colors that are just simply made for you and would be so much more flattering than your usual attire.”

“Now, Elegant, you can’t force Sunset Shimmer to change her look. We’ll have to nudge her there one step at a time,” Rarity broke in as she and Sonata returned from the upper floors.

Elegant Ensemble sighed and said, “It appears you escape unscathed this time, Sunset Shimmer. I’ll say only this for now: Any time you choose to accent your beauty instead of hide it, I’d be very pleased to make that sale,” she concluded with a cryptic look.

“Elegant, that will be all for tonight, and thank you very much for making sure those papers were filed with the local government,” said Rarity.

“You’re welcome. This is a big step for you and I’m glad I could help. I will see you and Sweetie Belle tomorrow after school. Have fun tonight,” she concluded with a smile.

Rarity locked the front door behind her, flipped the sign to “Closed”, and drew the curtains. Sonata was slowly looking at the mannequins and clothing racks, exploring Rarity’s handiwork.

“Wow, Rarity, do you make all of these yourself?” Sonata asked in amazement.

“No, not even a fifth of them, I’d wager. I usually only sew custom orders and the first few examples for each line that I release before turning the designs over to Elegant and a small group of seamstresses that I can trust,” she explained.

“Everything shimmers and glows when you move the fabric!” she remarked, playing with a heavily sequined purple gown, “Why don’t you wear these every day? You’d get so much attention!”

Before Rarity could respond, Sunset Shimmer jumped in. “Well, something like that isn’t exactly practical for school and work. And, while I know Rarity loves the spotlight, it’s not polite to continually show your talents. Her abilities are just well, more visual than others. It’s what’s inside and the decisions you make that count for more.”

“Well said, darling. These clothes are expensive in time and money to make and while they are the product of my inspiration and creativity, I would hate for people to feel bad about wearing them or use them to make others jealous. Well, maybe a little jealousy is OK. You know what I mean, right?” Rarity finished nervously.

Sonata giggled. “You want people to say ‘whoa’ when your designs enter the room, but not so over the top they whisper ‘that bitch’. Am I close?” Rarity smiled at Sonata's compliment.

Sunset rolled her eyes at the simplification. “Close enough, I guess,” her green-blue eyes twinkling in amusement. “Sonata, maybe you are starting to understand more about making the right choices. What do you think, Rarity?”

“I think it’s time to give you and Sonata a little glamour! But first, I have to arrange for dinner, since Sunset and I weren’t provided a Pinkie Pie smorgasbord,” answered the fashionista.

Rarity dialed a number on her cell phone and ordered a large cheese pizza, confessing that it was one of her guilty pleasures best saved for special occasions, and began setting out a wide array of cosmetics in the shop’s rear dressing area. After concluding her call, she patted the chair and invited Sonata to sit down.

“Sonata, you’re in for a special treat. I’m going to replace sadness with mystery, and make that bruise disappear. No offense, darling, but the foundation you have been using just isn’t the same caliber of what I have at my disposal. So, please tell me all about what troubles you as I work,” ordered Rarity as she began to apply pale blue makeup to the remnants of the injury inflicted upon Sonata by Adagio.

Sunset Shimmer watched Rarity at work, her tongue escaping the side of her mouth as she concentrated intently on Sonata’s face. Sunset always admired Rarity’s ability to gather information without interrogating, and this was no exception with her partially captive audience. Sonata started with repeating the story she had told Sunset Shimmer in the equipment storage room. After 36 hours of pampering and sheltering, the story was much more coherent during the second telling. The most striking addition that Sonata made during this telling is the initial shock of separation she felt from Aria and Adagio, which prompted the questions that led to Adagio’s assault.

Rarity, sporting her signature red spectacles, had moved on from the Siren's cheeks to her eyes. Sonata was commenting freely now and said, “Lying there in the alley, for the first time, I somehow knew that I didn’t have to follow Adagio. I could go back to the school and find Sunset Shimmer. I can barely remember the last time I got to choose anything before then.”

Rarity’s blue eyes looked over the top of her glasses at Sunset Shimmer as Sonata continued. “Adagio always made the songs, and every time we were separated, I felt, really deep down, that I had to find her and Aria. It was more than the fact I couldn’t feed myself alone, but I never really understood until my jewel broke.”

Sonata was rambling, and neither Sunset nor Rarity wanted to break the spell. “It was sort of like that time a couple hundred years ago when I sang that solo in Baltimare after some battle over a fort. Adagio was furious about the song those men talked me into singing. I figured it would be right up her alley, because it was about rockets and bombs and flags and all that stuff she usually makes us sing about when we got hungry.”

Rarity’s mouth was hanging open, eyeliner brush suspended in mid-air.

“We argued but all three of us stayed together. We had to stay together. But whatever you did broke it apart, and being with Sunset Shimmer the past two days has made me less afraid than I’ve ever been,” Sonata admiringly stated.

Recovering her composure and not knowing what to do with the attention being lavished on the other girl, Rarity announced, “Sonata dear, you’re finished!”

Rotating the chair to face the mirror, Sunset Shimmer’s eyes widened in surprise as she viewed Rarity’s exceptional work. Sonata’s bruise was completely hidden by an expensive light-blue foundation. Judicious application of a purple-tinted blush accentuated the girl’s high cheekbones and slender facial features. But, Rarity’s masterwork was Sonata’s eyes. The eyeshade and eyeliner drew all attention deep into the light purple irises. Smiling and pleasant, Sonata Dusk’s visage would cause heads to turn and hearts to race all over Canterlot.

“Thank you, Rarity! I look so beautiful, and you can’t even tell that I was hurt!” Sonata gushed.

“I’m grateful you appreciate an artist at work, darling. Please relax while I begin work on our other subject,” Rarity smiled and spun the chair with a flourish.

“Really, Rarity?” replied Sunset Shimmer skeptically.

“Come now, this is the price you must pay for my boundless hospitality,” she replied with a coy wink.

“Can I have another look upstairs?” asked Sonata.

“Certainly! I’ll call you when we get to my favorite part of this evening extravaganza, which is gown modeling, of course.” Rarity replied.

Sonata departed, leaving Sunset Shimmer to the tender mercies of Rarity’s makeover.

“So, my dear, please hang up that jacket of yours and have a seat."

Sunset Shimmer did as she was instructed, “Rarity, thank you very much for having us over tonight.”

Rarity began her work on the other girl’s makeup. “Think nothing of it! There’s no possible way that I was going to let you go back to that perfectly hideous place where you keep your things. Besides, you’re doing all of the right things with Sonata. I admire the way that you’re helping her.”

“I will never forget that you came to help me after Twlight returned to Equestria, so that means a lot to me, Rarity, even if you are a bit dramatic from time to time. Where in the world did you learn how to lay bricks?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

Rarity chuckled as she grabbed a container of mascara. “My parents, particularly my father, taught me many things that surprise my friends. But a lady never reveals her secrets all at once, darling.”

“So what was this paperwork that Elegant Ensemble was talking about? The mix of mystery and compliments didn’t get by me.”

Admiring her progress, Rarity said matter-of-factly, “I just finalized all of the paperwork to take ownership of the Carousel Boutique building and the associated business.”

Sunset Shimmer struggled to stay still, even with the mascara brush tickling her eyelashes. “Wow, how did you pull that off? You’re not even an adult in the eyes of the law around here!”

“Lawyers are useful creatures from time to time, darling,” Rarity smiled. “Besides, with my parents so notoriously detached, I wanted to make sure that Sweetie Belle and I wouldn’t be at risk. My fashion income is more than sufficient to support us, and I needed a measure of legal independence to ensure a successful future. Ah, finished!” she declared, “Let’s have a look, shall we?”

As Rarity spun the chair around to the mirror, Sunset Shimmer saw a face she would have barely recognized this past fall. Her blue- green eyes smiled with satisfaction, accentuated with rich mascara and a hue of eyeshade that complemented the colors without clashing with her yellowish skin tone. Rarity made sure that Sunset’s more frequent smiles were emphasized and where Sonata’s face was more elfin, the fashion expert took care to make her friend’s face more round and inviting.

With Sunset Shimmer speechless, Rarity filled the pregnant pause by leaning close to the other girl’s face. “You are a beautiful woman, darling. You sell yourself short behind all that toughness.”

Without warning, loud singing interrupted the moment:

Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream.
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.

As Sweetie Belle and Sonata transformed the children’s song into a round, Sunset said, “I think we’d better get up there.”

Biting her lower lip, Rarity nodded and led the way upstairs to Sweetie Belle’s room. They found the two girls smiling broadly and singing loudly.

As they broke in, they heard Sweetie Belle say, “Okay, Sonata, let’s sing the one I just taught you and remember to hold hands,”

Stunned, Sunset Shimmer and Rarity watched the two act just like young schoolchildren while singing:

Ring around the Rosie
Pocket full of posies
Ashes, ashes,
We all fall down!

The two singers fell to the floor, laughing uncontrollably.

“Sweetie Belle, my dear sister, what are you doing?” Rarity asked cautiously.

“I’ll explain, Rarity!” Sonata composed herself. “Your sister was practicing her music and I just had to listen. She has such a beautiful voice. Well, I tried to help, but I still can’t get my voice to work. So, Sweetie volunteered to teach me!”

“Um, I’m not so sure that was a good idea, Sweetie Belle,” said Sunset suspiciously.

The enthusiastic girl bobbed her two-toned curls. “I did such a good job! She couldn’t carry a tune in a brown paper bag when we started a little bit ago. No offense, Sonata,”

“None taken, little one. Thank you!” she replied with a smile.

“I ran her through some of my scales and after six or seven tries, she was able to hold pitch, but not very well. So, if we were just starting to learn, I figured we’d start with some of the songs I first learned! She can be very good again, I think, but you’re going to need some practice, just like my big sister tells me!” Sweetie Belle was beaming with pride.

Eyes shifting from Sonata Dusk to Sunset Shimmer, Rarity executed skilled misdirection. “Well, that’s so wonderful and all, but it’s time for Sonata to try on some of the gowns downstairs. The pizza is on its way, but do continue your practice and finish your homework.”

Sonata cheerfully followed behind the other two girls, where Rarity immediately grabbed a small selection of evening gowns for her two guests.

More steady now that she was back to her original plan, Rarity ordered, “We must put that makeup to good use now, ladies. The rule is that you must try on all three gowns but only come out in your favorite and we’ll pose for a picture!”

“What about you, Rarity?” asked Sonata.

“I already know what I am wearing so I’ll be ready when you are,” she replied.

Sunset Shimmer carried the pile of expensive fabric into the dressing room and looked at the choices Rarity had made for her. She gave a low whistle when she realized that the least expensive of the three gowns was six thousand dollars.

“I guess she doesn’t need to sell too many of these to make rent each month,” remarked Sunset wryly.

After trying all three on, she rejected the asymmetric gown made of scarlets and yellows. It would have perfectly complimented her hair, but the fiery tone reminded her too much of the night she had become a demon. Sunset Shimmer nearly picked the flowing, traditional gown that was the same color as her eyes, but it seemed a little too girly for her current mood. Instead, she picked a form-fitting, sleeveless black dress with two long, vertical stripes along her left side. The hemline was just above her knees. The gown’s silk accents were the same red and gold of her hair, but what sealed the deal was the detailed, delicate embroidery on the right hip. In raised black silk, barely visible even in the brightest stage lights, was an exact duplicate of her Equestrian cutie mark. Appraising herself in the triple mirror and smoothing the fabric, Sunset Shimmer was confident and stunning.

She left the dressing room at the exact same moment that Sonata did. Their eyes met and then went up and down over each others’ dresses as they gave a simultaneous gasp. Sonata had selected an ice-blue, subtly sequined gown with white lace sleeves and lace accents upon the shoulders. The dress hugged the curves of her hips, but just above her knees, the blue fabric flared outwards. Sunset Shimmer was no expert, but any girl who had been to as many formal events as she had would be able to spot a mermaid dress a mile away, and the irony wasn’t lost on her. Adding the formal gown to Rarity’s earlier makeup work, Sonata Dusk didn’t need her voice to command attention. She could have crashed the runway of any fashion show in Canterlot and claimed the cover of a dozen magazines.

“You two look absolultely magnificent!” squealed Rarity in delight. She had selected a purple gown, accented in black that was cut low in the front. A scandalous slit up the left side exposed a daring expanse of white skin. Taking advantage of the additional time that the others needed, Rarity had also piled her hair on top of her head and added a blaze of diamonds around her neck. Marching forward, she embraced the other two girls.

Rarity called, “Sweetie Belle, could you please come down and grab your camera and laptop?”

“Okay!” came her muffled reply from upstairs.

“Sunset Shimmer, you must simply find more opportunities to dress in this manner!” Rarity shifted her gaze, “And Sonata, it’s about time you rid yourself of those rock concert artifacts and attired yourself in style. Oh, the plans I have for you!”

“Rarity, remember our conversation with Pinkie Pie. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, here,” Sunset cautioned again.

Sweetie Belle posed the three of them in the center of the Carousel Boutique, and snapped several pictures. The printer near the cash register whirred, producing three copies of the trio of devastatingly beautiful young women. The pictures provoked the trio to giggle and tease one another for several minutes.

“Sonata, darling? If you’d like a bath after all this excitement, there’s a tub adjacent to your guest room. Do you need any help getting settled?”

Smiling happily, Sonata replied, “No, I don’t. Thank you very much for the makeover, the chance to try on the dress, the singing, and everything else!”

“Then please hang the gown carefully on one of the hangers upstairs. Sunset Shimmer and I have a few things to discuss.”

Sonata took the stairs two at a time, exclaiming, “I love baths!”

Sunset smiled warmly at Rarity. “I think you may have made her century, Miss Generosity.”

“Well, I seem to have a certain affinity for lost causes, if you recall,” came the self-satisfied reply.

“Ooh, I have a great idea now that Sonata’s upstairs!” Sunset Shimmer walked over to her bag and pulled out the Equestrian tome and Twlight Sparkle’s pen. Excitedly, she said, “I wonder if it works this way. I guess we’ll find out. Watch this, Rarity!”

Sunset Shimmer took her pen and wrote boldly:

Dear Twilight,

I have to see if this works or not. Your advice to be cautious with Sonata is exactly what I’m thinking too, but she’s making some progress. We are all watching her very carefully. Rarity is watching me write, so I will have to postpone any arcane discussions until another time. I just wanted to save a thousand words and see if this works.

Sunset Shimmer left the center of the page blank and signed at the bottom:

Your faithful friend,
Sunset Shimmer

She affixed the photograph in the letter’s blank space and closed the book. The duplicate of Sunset Shimmer’s cutie mark glowed brightly for a couple of seconds and then slowly dimmed. Opening the book again, there was an exact duplicate of the picture embedded into the parchment, but no trace of the print itself.

“Ha! I guess I can send attachments after all,” Sunset triumphantly laughed, looking into Rarity’s blue eyes and putting an arm around her shoulders.

Rarity returned the gaze and moved closer to Sunset Shimmer, “I have a confession to make.”

Still smiling, she replied, “What’s that?”

“My motives for luring you here are not entirely altruistic,” Rarity purred, twirling a violet curl around an alabaster finger and placing her other hand on Sunset’s hip. “You are amazing. You are beautiful, courageous, and wise. I like and admire how you’ve changed in these past few months and I want to get to know you much, much better.”

Feeling Rarity’s breath against her cheek, Sunset’s mind immediately became a confused tangle with many simultaneous thoughts vying for supremacy:

Rarity has fallen for me?
She knows I’m really a unicorn, right?
Rarity is so gorgeous and those eyes, wow!
What would this do to my other friendships at Canterlot High?

The last internal question lingered for half a heartbeat when the doorbell relieved her of the obligation to respond.

Rarity seethed, breaking the embrace and approaching the door with money in hand. “The pizza delivery? Ugh! Perfect timing as usual. You have escaped me for the moment, Suns…”

Rarity's sudden break and rapid intake of breath as she opened the door caught Sunset Shimmer’s attention. Whirling around, Sunset saw Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy supporting an unresponsive figure between the two of them.

Fluttershy apologized, eyes wide with fear. “We didn’t know where else to go. We found her by the Crusaders’ clubhouse with no jacket and no supplies of any kind.”

Sunset Shimmer took charge. “Rarity, draw a warm - not hot -bath in your room. There’s no way we’ll be able to keep her separate from Sonata, but we have to do this. Fluttershy, go to the convenience store and get some warm, easy to digest food, like soup. Rainbow, you’re going to have to help me carry her and get her undressed.” Checking the figure’s neck for a pulse, the purple skin was alarmingly cold and heartbeat abnormally fast. “Stay with us, Aria. You’ve reached help.”

Upstairs, unaware of the situation rapidly evolving beneath her, Sonata Dusk gazed at herself in the full length mirror of the guest bathroom as the tub filled.

Admiringly, she addressed her gown-clad reflection, piling her blue hair atop her head. “Oh, Big Macintosh, you don’t stand a chance.”

She sang, only a little off key:

Lavender's blue, dilly, dilly, lavender's green,
When I am king, dilly, dilly, you shall be queen.
Who told you so, dilly, dilly, who told you so?'
Twas my own heart, dilly, dilly, that told me so.

Call up your men, dilly, dilly, set them to work
Some to the plough, dilly, dilly, some to the fork,
Some to make hay, dilly, dilly, some to cut corn,
While you and I, dilly, dilly, keep ourselves warm.

Lavender's green, dilly, dilly, Lavender's blue,
If you love me, dilly, dilly, I will love you.
Let the birds sing, dilly, dilly, And the lambs play;
We shall be safe, dilly, dilly, out of harm's way.

I love to dance, dilly, dilly, I love to sing;
When I am queen, dilly, dilly, You'll be my king.
Who told me so, dilly, dilly, Who told me so?
I told myself, dilly, dilly, I told me so.

The running water and the panic downstairs swallowed the sound as Sonata threw her head back and laughed.

Author's Note

Yep, that's at least a double cliffhanger!

I enjoyed exploring the characters a bit more during this chapter, but understand that comes at the cost of a slower-developing plot. The three nursery rhymes are frequently used as songs. The last rhyme is predominantly English/British and the later verses were just too perfect for Sonata's closing scene.

My continued gratitude to IsabellaAmoreSirenix and ColdGoldLazarus for their constructive feedback, tireless encouragement, and tactful focus on my flaws. I'm doing this without an editor, and I know it shows. Hopefully my version of a 95-percent product continues to pass your inspection.

I hope this chapter was as much fun for you to read as it was for me to write! I'm grateful for your comments and feedback. Please keep them coming if you are so inclined. The time you invest to make them means a great deal to me, so thank you!

Minor edits to correct grammatical and punctuation errors made on 12/20/2014. Most original author comments remain, but I deleted the solicitation for cover art that I made when the chapter was originally published.

Chapter Five

As Sunset Shimmer finished issuing orders, the four girls sprang into action. Rarity sprinted ahead upstairs as fast as her evening gown would allow to prepare her bedroom and bathroom. Fluttershy took money from Sunset’s outstretched hand and flung open the door to go buy some food for Aria. In her haste, she accidentally knocked over her classmate Post Haste as she left in a rush.

“Oh, I’m so sorry. I didn’t see you there. Are you okay?” Fluttershy kneeled and cupped the boy’s face in her hands in concern.

Still dazed, Post Haste mumbled something along the lines of, “It’s all right. I didn’t drop the pizza.”

Fluttershy wasn’t stopping, though. “Here, take this for the pizza and I don’t need any change, thank you. I hope to see you at school tomorrow,” she said, giving him an enormous tip from Sunset Shimmer’s stack of bills. Without even setting a foot back inside the Carousel Boutique, Fluttershy slid the large pizza box on the carpet in the general direction of the dressing rooms and set about her task.

“Good bye!” she added, looking back with the building evening wind blowing her pink hair.

Post Haste gathered himself, put his hat back on, brushed off some dirt, counted the generous tip and returned to his car with a smile on his face.

Inside, Rainbow Dash and Sunset Shimmer didn’t notice Fluttershy’s inventive delivery technique. They had more weighty concerns to manage.

“I’ll take her head and shoulders and go backwards up the stairs. You take her legs,” Rainbow Dash declared, “especially since you’re wearing that fancy thing!”

Sunset Shimmer smirked at the beautiful dress she was wearing, “Got it,” she replied.

“Okay up on one, two, three!” Rainbow Dash counted as the two girls struggled with Aria Blaze’s unconscious body.
It was unspoken, but all four girls knew that it was a risk bringing Aria here, and was a bigger risk to continue jostling the purple-skinned girl in her fragile state of health. Step by step, lift by lift, the two girls carefully delivered their cargo to Rarity’s large bed. Steam was already escaping from the master bathroom as Rarity frantically positioned towels and other objects to make sure that Aria’s head remained above water.

“Rarity, don’t make it hot. We don’t want to burn her. We just have to warm her up, and the water will be a big help itself. You’ll see,” instructed Sunset Shimmer as Rainbow Dash began removing Aria’s clothing.

Sunset Shimmer’s heart was pounding from more than exertion. The surprise of having a second member of the Dazzlings dumped in her lap was more than enough, but the mix of adrenaline and terror for having to go immediately into a lifesaving situation threatened to throw her off balance.

“Steady, Shimmer. Steady,” she told herself under her breath, practicing some of the breathing exercises she had learned at Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. At least the parts of her anatomy concerned with breathing seemed to work about the same irrespective of whether she had four legs or two. As her heart rate slowed, her focus increased and Sunset Shimmer became acutely aware that all of the others’ eyes were on her. Rarity’s blue eyes gazed at her with concern, gown askew and arms soaked to the elbows. Rainbow Dash’s purple eyes peeked out from underneath a multi-hued forelock, looking for instructions from Sunset and hoping to translate her worry into tangible action. Sweetie Belle’s light green eyes appeared in the door frame. The younger girl’s expression shouted surprise, fear, and uncertainty. All of the eyes in the room deferred to Sunset Shimmer.

Six months ago, she would have reveled in that power and abused the situation to steal from them, blackmail them, or control them. A week ago, she would have let Rarity or Rainbow Dash take the lead out of uncertainty about her place in the group. After joining with the others and wielding the immense power of Harmony at the climax of the Battle of the Bands, Sunset Shimmer now chose to lead the others in saving Aria Blaze’s life.

She has to live, Sunset thought. I have to show Sonata and Aria that there’s another way.

Aloud, she added, “Okay, Rainbow, let’s get her into the tub!”

They lifted the unconscious girl and immersed her in the warm water. Aria gasped as she was enveloped, but was otherwise unresponsive.

Rarity kept Aria’s head above the surface and placed two fingers along the patient’s throat. She addressed Sunset Shimmer with building concern. “I can already feel her warming up, but her pulse is still very fast and weak.”

“Should we call an ambulance?” asked Rainbow Dash, “This is getting pretty far out of our league.”

Sweetie Belle sniffed, “After what you did at the Battle of the Bands, I don’t think there’s too much that’s out of your league. Sunset Shimmer, what can I do?”

“Keep Sonata out of trouble and when Fluttershy gets back, send her here to your sister’s room.”

“It’s a suite, darling,” Rarity insisted.

Ignoring the comment, Sunset Shimmer added, “Sweetie Belle, are you going to be OK? We need you.”

“I’ll be fine. Thanks for letting me handle this!” replied the younger girl.

…we need you… Sunset Shimmer’s own words echoed in her head, and inspiration struck her as she recalled those same words as spoken by Twilight Sparkle just a few days ago.

“I know how we can help her! Listen to me,” she implored, “Applejack and I learned that water helped Sonata’s injuries heal, which is why I brought her into the bath, but Sweetie Belle is the one that gave me this idea,”

Rarity, still cradling Aria’s head, questioned, “What are you talking about?”

“Sing with me. The last song I sang at the Battle will help, I just know it.” Sunset Shimmer’s aqua eyes blazed with determination and confidence. Scribbling quickly, she handed pieces of notebook paper to the others. “I’ll change some of the lyrics, just follow along with me. The bath and the music will work together. I can’t really explain why, I just feel that it’s right.”

She began almost tenderly, and more softly than when the song was used to conjure the power of Harmony, but with no less passion:

You're never going to bring me down
You're never going to break this part of me
My friends are here to bring you 'round
Not singing just for popularity

Rainbow Dash nodded and joined in with soft enthusiasm at the same moment Fluttershy entered the large, ornately tiled bathroom. Gazing at one another and Aria, they continued:

We're here to let you know
That we won't let it go

Our music is a shield and it's about to heal
Please don’t try to fight
‘Cause we have got the light of friendship on our side!

Amazingly, improbably, their hair doubled in length, Sunset Shimmer sprouted pony ears and Rainbow Dash’s ears and wings appeared even in the absence of their instruments. Rarity and Fluttershy gasped at the sight, and then added their voices to the song. They kept hold of their patient/audience, with Sunset Shimmer leading the quartet:

Got the music in our hearts
We're here to stand on guard
And together, we will never
Be afraid of the dark

The magic emerged from the other two girls, as the song reached its finale:

Here to sing our song of light
To give you the strength of right
As the music of our friendship
Survives! Survives! Survives!

As the quartet united their voices during the final stanza, a blue-green nimbus of magic crackled around Sunset Shimmer’s forehead. It burst forth in a benevolent surge of energy, bringing with it a warm sensation of being embraced by a feathery blanket. The wave and its teal-tinted light winked out, taking four sets of Equestrian ears and two sets of pegasus wings with it.

Rarity looked up at Sunset Shimmer in admiration and awe, “What did you just do?”

“I don’t know how I pulled it off,” she replied, gasping, trying hard not to reveal the eldritch aftershocks surging through her body. “But I just cast an Equestrian healing spell.”

“That was about 50 percent more awesome than anything you’ve ever done!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Did it work?”

Fluttershy quickly examined Aria. “I think she’s just sleeping now. Her heartbeat has slowed down and she’s still chilly but a lot warmer than she was.”

Still trying to recover from the magical bliss, Sunset Shimmer focused on more mundane details, “Let’s give her a few more minutes and then get her out of the bathtub. Sorry, Rarity, it looks like you lose your room for the night.”

She smiled back weakly, looking at her now-soaked evening gown. “I think I can endure the inconvenience under these circumstances, but I fear our couture will never recover.”

Sunset’s dress had fared even poorer, because the tight-fitting black gown wasn’t suited for intense bursts of physical activity. She sheepishly replied, “I’m sorry, Rarity. I know how much work you put into this.”

“Things can be mended fairly quickly, my dear. People, even Sirens, are a little harder to repair and impossible to replace,” replied Rarity with a gesture to the tub.

“So, what happened?” Sunset Shimmer asked, looking at Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.

“Well,” Fluttershy began softly, “I was walking in the woods between Sweet Apple Acres and the outskirts of town, when I realized I hadn’t seen very many animals. Those I did see were very skittish and scared.”

“I don’t know anyone like that,” Rainbow Dash added with a roll of her eyes.

“Shush! Don’t interrupt,” Rarity admonished her friend.

“It’s all right, Rarity. Anyway, I thought that Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle must have been making too much noise for the animals, so I started along the trail to their clubhouse to ask them to quiet down. I saw bootprints on the path and got worried for the girls. When I got to the clubhouse, it looked empty, but I saw Aria’s feet sticking out of a hollow log,” Fluttershy said, still hugging Aria’s head and wet hair.

She continued in a soft, clear voice, “Her breathing was very hard, like she was running from something and she was very cold. I couldn’t really wake her up even though she was kicking and tossing around. With the sun going down, I knew Rainbow Dash could get out into the woods very quickly, so I gave her a call on my cell phone. I’m just glad I had a little bit of signal.”

“What was she doing out there?” wondered Sunset Shimmer, “The clubhouse isn’t far from the farm. Oh, no! Where’s my phone?”

“Take mine,” said Rainbow Dash, pressing the device into her palm.

Red-and-gold hair falling into her face, she quickly dialed a number and a familiar voice answered through the speaker, “Hey, Rainbow, I was waitin' for you to call!”

“Applejack, it’s Sunset Shimmer. I’m using Rainbow Dash’s phone. I’ll explain in a second. Is everyone there safe?”

“Yeah, we’re fine. I’m the last one awake.”

“Could you just humor me and check?”

“Sure thing. Give me a moment,” Applejack replied as the line went silent for a minute or so. “Yep, Apple Bloom, Big Mac, and Granny are all here and are snug as bugs in rugs.”

Sunset Shimmer sighed with relief. “That’s great to hear. I’ll give you the full story later, but Fluttershy found Aria Blaze suffering from exposure near the Crusader clubhouse. She and Rainbow Dash brought her over to Rarity’s and we’re taking care of her.”

“Um, you have two of them over there?” Sunset Shimmer could almost see Applejack’s eyebrow arch in with concern and suspicion

“Sonata doesn’t know yet, but I can’t keep this secret from her for long. The point is that if Aria was out in the woods near the farm, I’m worried that Adagio is lurking somewhere nearby. Be very careful, and I don’t think any of you should be working by yourself,” cautioned Sunset.

“I’ll talk to everyone at breakfast. Do you need anything?”

“I think we have it under control for the night, Applejack. Thanks.” Sunset Shimmer hung up the phone and handed it back to Rainbow Dash.

“Not that I’m scared or anything, but I’m glad you gave AJ a call. I’ll help you get Miss Ton of Bricks out of the tub and then I have a call to make, too,” said Rainbow Dash, nervously running her fingers through the full spectrum of her hairstyle.

After they dried off a still-sleeping Aria, Rarity made sure to dress her unexpected guest in the most flowery and frilly nightgown she had to spare and carefully folded her normal clothes, and piled them on one of the bedroom’s chairs.

“She’ll thank me for it later,” Rarity intoned.

“Um, for which part? She seems to like spikes more than flowers,” mentioned Fluttershy.

Sunset Shimmer interrupted, saying, “I’ll watch her tonight. I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep for a while.”

“I don’t have any tests tomorrow. I could take over for you after I hand out my Wednesday flyers to help the animal shelter. I’ll tell Vice Principal Luna that an emergency has come up, and ask her to e-mail our homework assignments to us,” offered Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash yawned. “I can live with that. Hey, you got anything to eat around here? I’m starving!”

“Oh, the pizza arrived just as I was leaving,” Fluttershy added, fidgeting. “I sort of knocked over the delivery guy on my way to the store.”

“What are we waiting for? Sunset Shimmer has this all under control!” Rainbow Dash smiled crookedly and bounded out of Rarity’s bedroom. Fluttershy went into the bathroom to clean up the small flood that threatened to ruin the bedroom carpet.

“I’ll bring you a slice, darling, and your original clothes,” said Rarity, her hand lingering on Sunset Shimmer’s shoulder, “and put on a pot of coffee for good measure.”

“Thanks, Rarity,” Sunset replied, “I’m sorry this ruined your evening.”

“Au contraire, Sunset Shimmer. This multiplied my adoration for you, but alas, the mood is broken. We will speak again in due course,” she replied, brushing a red lock of hair out of the way and lightly cupping a yellow-tinted cheek.

As Rarity exited with a last look over her shoulder, Sunset Shimmer poured herself into one of the easy chairs at the foot of the bed. Massaging her temples, she wondered, “Oh, Twilight, did you ever have to deal with anything like this in Equestria?”

Post Haste cheerfully walked back to his still running car.

“A twenty-dollar tip and I get run over by that gorgeous girl from school who loves animals so much. Not a bad night at all,” he said to himself, smiling as he jumped back into the driver’s seat.

He felt a painful, sharp poke of cold metal through his T-shirt and heard a sinister voice in the back seat. “Just drive. I’ll tell you where.”

“The money’s on the front seat! Take it!” Post Haste pleaded, feeling the point of the knife against his skin.

“Oh, I will,” Adagio Dazzle venomously added from the depths of her gray hoodie. “But you’re going to do exactly as I say, first.”

Aria Blaze shivered and wrapped her arms around herself. The last thing she truly remembered was eavesdropping on the conversation between the two girls at the place where their parents were buried. There was a reason she was supposed to follow them, but it was just out of reach in her mind.

“Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. Yes, that was their names. Why was it so hard to concentrate? Where am I?” she said aloud.

Aria stood on a wide dirt path, surrounded by a meadow that was filled with wildflowers that she could barely make out in the twilight. The chill of the spring morning was the most acute thing she felt. She could smell salt in the air and the stirrings of a sea breeze upon the wind.

Her heart, more than her mind, remembered the vivid memories of her last moments as a mermare and He Who Swims in Darkness. What had brought that back after so many hundreds of years? Teeth chattering she called out, “Mother? Sonata? Adagio?”

A deep laugh from her right startled Aria. She looked down the path and saw the source of the brackish smell. A dank, salty swamp, framed by enormous cypress trees lay in that direction.

“Come back to me, Aria. I will make it so you never need to fear the cold or death again,” intoned He Who Swims in Darkness. “Obey me and you will be rewarded as I have always rewarded you.”

The pit of Aria’s stomach sank with fear and despair.

A threatening, commanding tone crept into the menacing voice. “For a thousand years, I have given you youth, beauty, and music. Even a short absence is too long for us. Come to me. Now.”

Inky tentacles made of midnight snaked from the swamp, making their way over an impossible distance toward Aria Blaze. Resisting the urge to return to Leviathan’s dark embrace, Aria closed her eyes and again saw Apple Bloom holding Scootaloo in front of her parents’ gravestone. She recalled Scootaloo’s prayer to a higher power, but the fear of He Who Swims in Darkness’ approach drove the words from her mind.

With a blue-and-green flash, the dusk gave way to dawn and the chill turned mild. The advance of the black tendrils halted and Aria looked to her left. A small village along a rocky fjord was illuminated by the glow of the sun still beneath the horizon. Even at this distance, she saw people beginning to go about their day’s work and noticed the large building along the waterfront that looked like a simpler version of the house of worship that she had tracked the two girls to earlier.

A cloaked figure standing next to a white stone that marked an obvious boundary to the village called to Aria, “You must choose or else the choice will be made for you!”

Aria turned to her left and took a step. The being behind her raged, promising torment and enslavement. Ahead of her, with each step, she saw, truly for the first time, the individual dramas of lives being played out. She saw marriages at the temple, and sensed the exhausted joy of mothers carrying newborns. Aria felt the sadness when loved ones were put to rest for the last time. She watched buildings laboriously constructed and then destroyed by flood and storm. She witnessed the heights of compassion and the depths of depravity brought about by freewill, but on balance, friendship and love triumphed over dominance and hate.

As she neared the figure and the boundary stone, the first rays of the sun peeked over the waters of the fjord. The scarlet sky portended a violent storm, but it twined with the upper half of the golden sun, offering hope. Where had she seen those colors before?

The sun illuminated thousands, millions of choices in the village ahead. With growing clarity, Aria realized that it wasn’t the length of the thread in the tapestry of life that was important, but the impacts of choices that shaped lives and formed destinies. After centuries of deceit, compulsion, and immersion in the culture of enslavement in Aquastria, Aria wanted those choices to be her own, not Adagio Dazzle’s, and certainly not He Who Swims in Darkness.

With unbridled fury, the voice at the tentacles howled, “You choose your death! I will have your soul, Aria Blaze, and the souls of the others!”

She said some of Scootaloo’s prayer aloud, finally remembering. “…lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil…”

The three black leather bands around each of Aria’s forearms disintegrated into dust, as did the thick collar that used to hold her Siren pendant.

Aria lowered her violet eyes deferentially as she reached the white marble. “I want to live a life worthy of remembering. I don’t want to make people fight any more. I don’t want to be afraid.”

The cloaked figure enfolded Aria’s light purple hand in two bluish-gray ones, “Welcome, Aria Blaze. We have waited for you for a long time.”

Removing her cloak and setting it on the stone, the stranger revealed unearthly beauty. She possessed sea-green eyes with the merest hint of blue along with two-toned hair alternating between midnight and evening. An understated ebony tiara reflected the dawn’s rays. Above a flowing, deep purple gown, a platinum crescent moon was at the enigmatic figure’s throat and feathery wings the same dusky color as her skin spread behind her. In stark contrast with the beatific visage, the long hilt of a two handed-sword poked above her right shoulder, held in place with an ornate scabbard.

Tears streaming down her face, Aria received an embrace that erased uncertainty and dispelled the fear conjured by He Who Swims in Darkness.

“Who are you?” Aria asked in wonder.

“It is not for us to say, as we have bent enough Rules by assisting you here,” she said regally, “but answers are closer than you may believe.”

Spreading her wings and holding both arms high as the sun crested the horizon, the mysterious woman caused the sun to briefly transform into a circle of red and gold, split by a sinuous line.

“Sunset Shimmer,” Aria whispered.

Earlier that evening in the Carousel Boutique...

Sonata Dusk hummed to herself as she began a long, luxurious bath. The mermaid gown, suspended from a hanger, continued to catch her eye from its place back of the door. She couldn’t remember a time when she felt so beautiful and important. With one last glance at the mirror, Sonata regretfully scrubbed the makeup from her face and cleaned the rest of her body. Taking a deep breath, she submerged herself in the warm water, closed her eyes for a moment and took an involuntary step back in time.

*****

“Mama, I’m afraid. What’s happening?” the mermare filly asked as she bobbed up and down in the tiny dwelling.

Coral Symphony tried to keep her voice steady, “Today, you’re going to meet the Queen and the Princess. It’s a very special day.”

With a twirl of her blue-streaked fins, Sonata pouted, “I wanna be a princess. Then all our problems would go away and Daddy would come back to us.”

“Shhh, dearest. We must always keep Daddy a secret. You and I will never be royalty but we can’t be sad about it. But, I don’t want you to be afraid, because it’s your singing that is giving you this very special chance to meet the Queen,” the mother replied, brushing a fin against the filly’s muzzle.

Coral Symphony’s catastrophic mistake was to fall deeply in love with Dusky Defense. In the female-dominated mermare society, equality between the genders was forbidden. The stallions were useful only as front-line warriors, in hazardous occupations, and for fathering merfoals. When the twins were born, the couple doted upon Sonata Dusk and her brother Coral Aegis and developed a secret enduring relationship outlawed in Imperial Aquastria. Incredibly, their close bond had remained hidden for years. But, it had all fallen apart in the end, as Coral Symphony feared it would.

When the Queen learned of Sonata’s singing talent and decreed that she be given to He Who Swims in Darkness, Dusky Defense snapped while on duty in the throne room. The low-ranking guard stallion objected to his daughter’s impending sacrifice and was immediately executed for his insolence. The Queen’s heralds returned to the hovel and demanded that Coral Symphony prepare Sonata for the procession to the Trench Gate or else they would kill her, Coral Aegis, and her entire bloodline for Dusky Defense’s disobedience. Even now, a half-dozen guards encircled their home.

Fortunately for Sonata, Coral Symphony had been able to conceal her father’s death from her. The filly thought that he had only been called away for other duties, which was common enough. Coral Aegis was not so fortunate since he was home when the heralds arrived, but agreed to keep his mother’s secret to save the lives of the others. With sapphire blue scales and silver accents, he would be a strong, handsome merstallion, and had already shown skill in metalworking. He swam to his sister, fastening a homemade brass bracelet around her wrist. The bracelet was fashioned in the shape of a heart with a jagged musical note made of turquoise. It was a simple keepsake. But, he made the choice to take the risks to craft it and present it to Sonata as a gift.

Coral Aegis, in a breach of Aquastrian protocol, quickly folded his sister affectionately into his fins. Transfixing her with stormy gray eyes, he kept his voice even. “Be brave, my sister.”

Still unaware, Sonata breezily replied, “I will. Maybe Princess Adagio and I will become friends when I meet the Queen! We’ll have seaponies fetch us kelp tea and go to parties. We could be princesses together just like in the old stories!”

Coral Symphony smiled sadly at her daughter’s relentless optimism. Coral Aegis could no longer hide his emotions and swam behind a small partition. The mother could only guess at the horrors Sonata Dusk would be subjected to at the tentacles of He Who Swims in Darkness. She leaned down, telling her daughter, “Just don’t forget about us, Sonata, and don’t be afraid. You are my daughter and I will always love you and be proud of you.”

*****

In Rarity’s guest bathroom, Sonata opened her eyes and surfaced, taking a deep breath of air. She flipped her blue hair out of her eyes, splattering water onto the tile. Suddenly, she heard singing outside of the door. The song was oddly familiar to her but she couldn’t quite make out the tune. Just as she was about to get out of the tub to investigate, she was rocked by magical light and energy. A wave of blue-green force swept over Sonata, washing away her fatigue. Placing a hand against her side, she could feel her broken ribs knit together underneath her fingers and watched the bruise disappear.

“Sonata!” came Sweetie Belle’s muffled voice, “are you still in there?”

Composing her awestruck features, she replied, “Yes, I am! Could you please bring me the robe your sister put out for me?”

With a knock, Sweetie Belle delivered the garment and waited outside while Sonata got out of the tub. With the white terrycloth tied around her waist, the blue-skinned girl appraised Sweetie Belle, noticing she was terrified of something and was hiding it badly.

“What’s wrong, little one?”

“Um, Sunset and Rarity will tell you when it’s time, okay. Until then, can I help you brush your hair? You have so much of it and it’s so pretty! I’ll even teach you a few new songs while we wait.”

“That would be wonderful, Sweetie Belle,” replied Sonata, adding a sweet smile.

While the crisis played itself out down the hall, Sonata Dusk and Sweetie Belle sang and laughed like two long-separated school friends. Sonata’s voice continued to grow in volume and quality, which Sweetie Belle attributed to her newly-found skill as a teacher.

“So, Sweetie, what can you tell me about Applejack’s adorable older brother?” Sonata asked between songs.

Bobbing her curls, to which Sonata had added several ridiculous bows, she smiled, saying, “Ohhh, you like him? Big Mac is so strong and handsome. He is awfully quiet, though.”

A lilac eye closed in a conspiratorial wink, “I might not be interested in his talking. What else can you tell me?”

“He’s stubborn and honest, like all of the Apples. But you know what?” The younger girl leaned forward, “He can sing!”

“For realsies?” Sonata asked excitedly.

“Yeah, he has a big deep voice that echoes all over Sweet Apple Acres.”

Sonata’s hand went to her chest. Her heartbeat quickened and blood rushed to her face. Her instinct was perfect. Strength, good looks, and the ability to make music? There was only one piece missing. But, how to ask about it without raising suspicion?

Playing with her freshly brushed hair, Sonata coyly asked, “I saw you have a bit of trouble with some of the girls at school, Sweetie. Did Big Macintosh ever have to protect Apple Bloom?”

Eager to please her new friend, Sweetie Belle was quick to answer, “No, but there was a time a couple of years ago when one of the other teachers had done something mean to Cheerilee. Whatever it was, it was really bad. Before Shining Armor took that guy away, Big Macintosh had gotten to him first. He was pretty big, too, but still had two black eyes. I think Big Mac may have even broken his jaw.”

Growing giddier by the second, Sonata focused on something in Sweetie Belle’s response that gave her pause. She reached over and put her hand on the other girl’s arm. “He’s so brave! But, I have one more question. Who’s Cheerilee?”

“Cheerilee is the teacher that runs the library at CHS. She’s really nice and pretty, but gets angry at me and the other Crusaders for making too much noise. She’s been really close to Big Mac ever since that day.”

Sonata made a mental note to learn more about this Cheerilee the next time she was at school, her eyes narrowing in concentration.

Rarity knocked on the door and entered. She had removed her makeup and changed out of her gown into pajamas. Though not as terrified as Sweetie Belle was earlier, something was certainly wrong. The girl’s hesitant step and the way she fidgeted with her fingers was completely at odds with the way Rarity usually acted.

“Sonata, this is going to be a terrible shock, but I need you to come with me, my dear.”

Sonata grabbed both of Rarity’s outstretched hands, “What’s wrong?”

“It’s easier to just show you.”

They entered Rarity’s suite at the end of the hall, and Sonata saw Sunset Shimmer sip on a large, steaming mug of coffee. She set it on the table and rushed to her, wrapping her in a hug.

“Sonata, Aria’s here and she’s been hurt,” Sunset said, pointing to the figure sleeping in Rarity’s bed.

Sunset Shimmer felt her stiffen and saw tears welling in the other girl’s eyes. Sonata clenched her fist. “Adagio will pay for this! What did she do?”

Surprised at the reaction, Sunset stroked Sonata Dusk’s hair, trying to calm her. “We don’t know much about what happened yet, Sonata. Relax. Fluttershy found her out in the woods.”

“She must have done something! You don’t know what she’s capable of. Come on, let’s find her!” she cried, approaching hysterics.

Fluttershy emerged from the bathroom with a towel, speaking softly and calmly, “Sonata, let’s talk this over. Aria was very cold in the woods, but there’s something else wrong that we can’t figure out. She needs time to rest.”

“And we won’t gain anything from rushing out into the night unprepared.” Sunset Shimmer replied, adding, “Let’s find out more from Aria when she wakes up.”

Obviously frustrated, Sonata went to Aria’s side. “She and I never really got along very well. Aria would always tell me that I was the worst at everything and take Adagio’s side most of the time, but nobody deserves this,” touching Aria’s cheek and shifting her gaze to Rarity she added,” Promise me you’ll help me get Adagio!”

Sunset Shimmer grabbed Sonata by the shoulders and looked her in the eyes, “We’re not going out there tonight to look for her and that’s final. Go downstairs with Sweetie Belle and Rainbow Dash. Go see if there’s any pizza left while we finish up here.”

“Yes, Sunset Shimmer,” Sonata replied meekly and left the room.

“Not exactly sisterly love, is it?” Rarity said to the other two suspiciously.

“Something’s wrong. We have to watch her very closely, and keep an eye on Sweetie Belle for good measure. I can’t be in two places at once, though and I think that Fluttershy and I will need to stay here until it’s safe to move Aria to the cottage,” directed Sunset Shimmer.

“I’ll talk to Rainbow Dash and send a text to Pinkie Pie.” Rarity agreed. “Sonata seemed to have made a connection with her while eating all those desserts. The three of us will watch her while you two attend to her stricken, um, colleague.”

The sounds of conversation, singing, and laughter filtered up from downstairs. Sunset Shimmer smiled while she kept watch. Rarity, true to her word, had provided her with dinner, caffeine, her school bag, and an Ursa Major-sized case of confusion. With plenty of time on her hands, she turned the page past the joyful picture that already seemed like it had happened ages ago and began to write:

Dear Princess Twilight,

Many things happened tonight that I need to tell you about right away. I know I’ve already written tonight, but I wouldn’t bother you if it wasn’t urgent. I’ll talk about the Sirens first.

Fluttershy found Aria Blaze out in the woods near the Crusaders’ clubhouse, which is less than a mile from Sweet Apple Acres. She had been out in the woods for a long time and was dangerously cold. We warmed her up, but it didn’t seem to be enough. I had to do something. I couldn’t let Aria die, not while I could save her. So, I launched into what I sang at the Battle of the Bands after the Sirens knocked the microphone out of your hands. I changed a few of the words. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity were there and joined in. At the very end, I cast a spell. No, not a rainbow, but a real, honest-to-Celestia Equestrian healing spell, complete with a burst of magic of the same color as my horn’s aura. It saved Aria, but I’m scared. The others are depending on me, so I don’t dare tell them.

What does this mean? You’re the scholar, Twilight. Why is my power increasing in a nearly magic-free world? I know that the desperation of the situation comes into play, just like when your magic shield appeared when I tried to blast you with a fireball at the Fall Formal.

Sonata worries me, too. When we brought her in to see Aria she immediately jumped to conclusions, assuming that Adagio had hurt her. She tried like crazy to get us to run right off to find Adagio and I stopped just short of angrily shutting her down. Sonata also convinced Sweetie Belle to teach her to sing children’s songs, and her voice is coming back quickly – way too quickly. There’s no magic in it that I can detect, but you saw the picture, she has other assets that she can use in this world to get her way.

Anything you can tell me about the pendant shards and building my artificer skills in this world would be really vital right now. I have no data to satisfy a scientist like you, but my intuition is telling me I need all the help I can get. Please, I am asking you to pull some Princess strings in Canterlot. Maybe Vulcan Anvil, the master of the Arcane Forge, still remembers me enough to do us a favor.

Lastly, and I’m hesitant to bring this up, has Rarity ever come on to you? You know, romantically? Have any of your other friends? I’m so glad I sent the picture, because right after it was taken, Rarity told me how much she admired me, how she wanted to get to know me “much, much better”, and leaned forward to kiss me. Twilight, I can’t shake the feeling that picking one of my friends to be more special to me than the others would end in disaster and the stakes seem so high.

Thank you for any time or advice you can spare. I really wish you had stayed a few more days.

Your faithful friend,
Sunset Shimmer

“Stop here.” ordered Adagio Dazzle.

“Why the aquarium?” asked Post Haste, earning a superficial jab of Sunset Shimmer’s butterfly knife.

“You don’t get to know, and if you tell anyone about this impromptu trip, I will kill you. You know how easy it was for me to get into your car. It would be even easier to get into your house. You know what I’m talking about, Post Haste, the house on Circular Street you share with your parents and little brother?”

Terrified, the young man agreed, “No one will ever know.”

“Good night, then.” Adagio, with several of Sunset’s gold bars clenched in her fist, expertly clipped Post Haste in the back of the head, knocking him unconscious.

Gathering her belongings, most of which originally belonged to Sunset Shimmer, and taking the delivery boy’s cash, she stepped out of the car and walked towards the Canterlot Aquarium’s loading docks. Producing a stolen key and staying out of sight of security cameras, Adagio descended into the facility’s damp maintenance and filter rooms. Her eyes adjusted to the dark, with a malevolent magenta glow that allowed her to find her way without additional illumination.

Fittingly, in a concrete room beneath the shark tank, the three Sirens had established a small lair, complete with simple furniture, sleeping bags, and blankets. Adagio Dazzle’s keen ears heard another person breathing and shifting about in their room. Before turning the corner into the room, she gripped Sunset Shimmer’s knife, prepared to use it.

“Come in, Adagio. I was just catching up on my reading,” called an oddly familiar voice.

Sitting at the small table, her black hair done in a severe bun that accented her chalk-white complexion was the Canterlot High School literature teacher, Ms. Raven. The teacher closed a book and calmly set it down.

“What in Lord Kraken’s name are you doing here?” she said, brandishing the knife.

“What are either of us doing here, Princess? I haven’t seen my true home in a thousand years. Sound familiar?” Ms. Raven smiled, but it didn’t touch her dark eyes.

“How…?” started Adagio.

“Starswirl the Bearded, Celestia, and Luna. Surely you didn’t think you were the only one that hairy excuse for a wizard cast out of Equus into this mundane world?”

Totally rocked off her game, Adagio could only sputter, “Why didn’t you help us?”

“Oh, you were doing great, until the precise moment you weren’t. Could any of us have predicted in advance that Sunset Shimmer would save the day and unleash the Power of Harmony? Besides, I serve a different Master than you do, but I think that we can make an agreement. I’m not as attached to my old home as you seem to be, Princess.”

“You must tell me. Who are you?” demanded Adagio Dazzle.

“I am Shrieking Raven, the last of my kind in this world.” she stood, her features becoming more skeletal, “I am a banshee and feed off of terror and death. Like you, I could barely sustain myself until this fall, and now, I am growing powerful as more and more Equestrian magic flows here. Behold the power of my voice!”

A high-pitched magical scream issued forth from Shrieking Raven, dropping Adagio to her knees. She covered her ears, but was still overcome by the intense terror emanating from the undead creature.”

“Curious. The servants of Leviathan should be immune to my magic. No matter. Their deaths,” Raven pointed to three dead rats, “and those of the fish above will sustain my powers for a time. After all, water carries sound better than air. Now, let us discuss how you will serve He Who Swims in Darkness once again, Your Highness.”

Shrieking Raven’s features returned to their normal disguise. She pulled out a second chair and invited Adagio to sit at her own table.

Alone, frightened, and desperate to hide it, she joined the creature at the table.

“Sunset Shimmer,” groaned Aria Blaze as she rolled over in Rarity's bed.

Still seated in one of the easy chairs in Rarity’s bedroom, Sunset nearly spilled her cup of coffee (her fifth) just as she was taking a sip. Outside, the sun was beginning to rise over Canterlot, illuminating the city with a crimson hue.

Sunset Shimmer rose. As she went to Aria’s side, her link to Equestria buzzed. The sunburst cutie mark on the book’s cover flared as the first rays peeked over the horizon, mimicking the color of the sky outside.

“A storm is coming.” Sunset Shimmer said to the sunrise.

Author's Note

I'm glad that I was able to finish this chapter a little more quickly than I thought I would. I've learned the art of underpromising and overdelivering, so I'll continue in that vein. Expect a new chapter every two weeks, and if I can somehow pull it off in a single weekend, we'll all be happy? Does that sound all right?

Obviously, things are becoming serious rather quickly for our heroines from threats both known and unknown. Sunset Shimmer's moment of action was based on something from my personal past. No, I didn't break into song, but responsibility causes unusual things to happen. I'll spare you here. Just know that I am a nearly endless font of useless sea stories, not all of which are suitable for polite company. :pinkiegasp:

Redemption has many paths in many cultures, and I offer my apology if my cobbled-together theology adapted to the MLP universe leaves anyone with a negative impression.

Thank you all so much for the numerous comments on Chapter Four and I hope to learn what you think of this effort. IsabellaAmoreSirenix graciously offered assistance as an editor, sacrificing large chunks of a weekend (and time more happily spent penning other stories) to help me and for that I'm grateful. And - a shameless plug: Check out her stories. Start with Eye Shadow if you have an appetite for emotive imagery!

ColdGoldLazarus and SerenaAveline, you are wonderful in keeping me honest, whether with constructive feedback, letting me know I'm on the right track, and a flood of fan-created art. ShadeJak, I'm not worthy of your praise, but hope you keep reading the stuff I put out there.

For all of you that have chosen to comment, thank you once again. I am grateful for the time you spend to read these large chapters and humbled by the fact you add your thoughts. I hope you continue to steal a moment here or there to let me know your opinion on this latest installment.

Chapter Six

“Aria, I’m here. It’s Sunset Shimmer,” she said, maternally brushing a lock of long, purple hair out of the way and placing a hand on Aria’s forehead.

Aria’s skin was damp with a fine, cool layer of perspiration. She was fitfully awaking, pleading with someone. “Don’t go!”, “Tell me more!”, and “I don’t understand!” were what Sunset could make out from the sleepy, troubled ramblings. Sunset’s touch seemed to calm Aria’s thrashing a bit and she considered letting the Siren fall back asleep when her purple eyes opened suddenly. All the shock, confusion, and fear that could be expected from waking in an unfamiliar bed after a terrible nightmare was reflected in those wide eyes, even though Aria’s brain hadn’t quite caught up. She patted her shoulders and chest, frowned briefly at the frilly nightgown Rarity had dressed her in, and even pinched herself firmly on a purple-tinted forearm to confirm that she was truly awake. Sunset watched patiently and waited for Aria to speak. At last the violet eyes narrowed slightly and met Sunset Shimmer’s blue-green gaze.

“Where am I?” she asked simply.

Pulling the chair over to the side of the bed, Sunset Shimmer sat down and leaned forward. She didn’t want to stand three feet above Aria while they talked. Reaching out, she laid a hand on Aria’s forearm. The other girl flinched slightly, almost involuntarily, at Sunset Shimmer’s touch, but didn’t pull away.

“Aria, you’re in Rarity’s suite in the center of Canterlot.”

“Canterlot?” she gasped. “The last thing I remember I was… out of town.”

“Do you drink coffee? Maybe you should wake up a bit before I tell you what we know.”

A bemused smile unlike any of the threatening, cruel expressions Sunset Shimmer had seen on Aria’s face appeared. She replied, “Do you honestly think that I could deal with Sonata Dusk for all this time without drinking a lot of coffee? I’d love a cup.”

“Here, just have mine,” Sunset Shimmer said, handing over the mug that she nearly spilled when Aria had suddenly cried out.

Taking a deep drink, Aria Blaze said, “Mmmm… I’m glad you like cream and sugar, too. So, anyway, why am I here?”

As the sun rose into a cloudy sky, Sunset Shimmer briefly told Aria about how Fluttershy had found her in the woods inside of a hollow log, near the Crusaders’ clubhouse. She told her about how the group had warmed her up in the bathtub and then put her to bed after the crisis seemingly passed. Sunset decided to stick with simple facts during this initial retelling, omitting the magic spell she had cast with the help of Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash.

“Sonata is here, Aria. She came to check on you as soon as we told her you had been hurt,” said Sunset.

Sitting up in bed, Aria implored, “Please, I need to talk to her. Could you go get her?”

Looking at the bedside clock, she replied, “She’s probably getting ready for school, but I’ll find her. While I’m up, I’m going to get you some soup. You’re hungry and need to eat.” The last comment was clearly not a request.

As the door opened, the din of five teenage girls attempting to use a single bathroom to get ready for school rolled into the quiet bedroom.

“Rarity, you have a store full of clothes down there,” said an annoyed voice. “All I want is a T-shirt so I’m not wearing the same thing two days in a row. ”

“Rainbow Dash, this is such an opportunity for me. I can’t pass it up! I’d love for you to accept my help with your wardrobe every day instead of just for formal occasions,” Rarity’s voice continued.

“T-shirt. Now. Or we’re going to be late for school!”

Sunset Shimmer interrupted, saying, “Good morning. Our patient’s awake and wants to see Sonata. She’s hungry, too.”

From the bottom of the stairs, Fluttershy called up, “I heard you two talking and started some soup. I’m so glad Aria’s okay! I’ll be back in an hour or two, um, if that’s all right?” She had in her arms a thick stack of flyers detailing the animal shelter's needs for the week. Without fail, no matter the weather, the kind girl would stand near the statue at the front of Canterlot High School every Wednesday, and politely ask for volunteers.

“Thanks, Fluttershy, and thanks for talking to Vice Principal Luna for us, too!” she replied. Turning to Rarity, who was obviously frustrated with more than just Rainbow Dash, Sunset Shimmer added, “How did you sleep?”

Rarity put her right index finger in the air, motioning for her to wait and directed, “Rainbow Dash, I keep some T-shirts in the laundry room and I expect whatever you borrow to be washed and returned in a usable condition. No grass stains!” Turning back to Sunset Shimmer, she complained, “I know I slept more than you did, but how can I be expected to function with THIS going on most of the night?”

Rarity’s exasperated gesture took in Rainbow Dash’s wardrobe struggles, Fluttershy’s early rising, and a loud duet of pop music coming from the bathroom (courtesy of Sonata Dusk and Sweetie Belle). Sunset Shimmer knew that Rarity was gearing up for a classic display of exaggerated drama and suppressed the urge to roll her eyes at her friend.

Rarity continued with grand theatrics, crossing her arms over her chest. “This is no way for guests to act, even in such dire circumstances! Next time, I think you should suggest the slumber party happen somewhere else.”

“Rarity, if you should be mad at anybody, it should be me,” Sunset replied, stopping the other girl’s tirade. “I asked you if Sonata could come here and we had a great night until the business with Aria came waltzing in the front door. I know how you like to make a plan and stick to it, but last night we had to be a little more, um, adaptable.” Rarity’s expression softened from angry to tired pouting. “Look, your makeup and hair are half-done and you’re not dressed. Finish up in your bathroom while I fetch Sonata, unless you’d prefer for all of CHS to see you like this?” Sunset Shimmer concluded with a playful smile.

Her gesture took in Rarity’s sweatpants, thermal shirt, and lack of makeup. Rarity sniffed. “Of course you’re right, my dear, but it doesn’t mean I have to be happy about it.”

“Rarity, and one more thing,” Sunset shimmer said hesitantly. “I know we have a lot to talk about later that we didn’t have time for last night. For now, I’ll just say thank you for the best compliment I’ve ever received. Can you forgive me for not knowing what to do with it quite yet?”

With a genuine smile and a twinkle returning to her blue eyes, Rarity said, “Of course, darling.” She looked up and down the empty hallway, then leaned forward and gave Sunset Shimmer a peck on the cheek and bounded down the hallway to her room. Sunset Shimmer was completely shocked. Her hand went to her cheek with her mouth hanging open.

Sunset Shimmer’s astounded blush was in full bloom at the precise moment that Sweetie Belle and Sonata Dusk emerged, giggling loudly, from the guest bathroom. They were similarly dressed, each in a conservative blouse with a light sweater over the top and a complementary flowing skirt, all from Rarity's previous spring collection. Even their hair was styled similarly, with both girls electing the long ponytail that Sonata favored. The only remnant of Sonata’s original outfit was a single spiked bracelet around her right wrist.

Composing herself and intentionally ignoring Sweetie Belle’s new hairstyle, Sunset said, “Sonata, before you leave, I wanted you to know that Aria is awake. Would you like to see her?”

Sonata Dusk’s smile could have lit an entire city block. “Of course!”

Aria was just setting the empty coffee mug on the nightstand when Sonata and Sunset Shimmer entered Rarity’s suite. Sonata nearly threw herself on to the bed to give Aria a hug.

“You’re all right!” she squealed.

“I’m hungry and feel a little strange, but I think I’m going to be fine,” Aria replied, looking Sonata up and down, “I like your new look. I’m not sure it’s your speed, though. Anyway, we need to talk about some important things.”

Sonata had her own agenda, not hearing Aria and continuing on, “What did she do to you? Where can I find Adagio? She has to pay for this!”

Making an effort to interrupt, the purple-haired Siren had to become increasingly sharp, “Sonata. Sonata, stop. SONATA!!!”

The torrent of words pouring forth came to a sudden halt. Both Sunset Shimmer and Sonata Dusk stared at Aria Blaze.

Aria said, “Listen carefully. This is serious. Do I have your attention?”

“Yes,” replied Sonata.

“Good. Adagio didn’t do this to me. She gave me a job to do, but I couldn’t finish it because I saw something happen that changed everything for me. I think that who I used to be was fighting with who I want to be, and it knocked me out of action in the woods. Fortunately, the nice one with the pink hair found me freezing my tail off in the forest. So, she and the guitar player with the crazy rainbow hair brought me here and saved me.”

Aria leaned forward, grabbed Sonata’s hands and pulled her face close to her own. She continued, “This is what I need to tell you. We are no longer bound to the Master. Whatever Sunset Shimmer and the Rainbooms did to us, it broke his hold over us. You, me, and Adagio can choose who we are and what we do now. We don’t need to split people apart or make them fight any more. That’s why I’m happy to see you’re choosing to go to school and become friends with these girls.”

“They have been so nice to me, especially Sunset Shimmer, after what Adagio did to me,” said Sonata cheerfully, “and my singing voice is starting to come back, too!”

“Sonata, be careful!” she cried, shocked, “You remember who Adagio used to be and how badly she wanted to get home, right?”

“Yeah,” she replied uncertainly.

“The Master is furious at me. I turned away from him in a dream, but it seemed so real. The point is that I think the Master needs us a lot worse than we, and especially Adagio, need him. Bottom line, you were right. We needed to move on in our own ways.” Aria moved her hands to Sonata’s shoulders and said excitedly, “Thanks to you, I can make my own decisions and be responsible for what happens. I don’t know what I’m going to do yet, but I know that living life is more important to me now than controlling others.”

Sonata was having trouble processing all of this. “I don’t know what to say,” she said, “I don’t understand. I shouldn’t sing?”

“Of course you can sing! Hey, I don’t totally get what’s going on either. But do not go back to the Master. If he speaks to you somehow, don’t listen to anything he says or do what he tells you to do. And do not go back to our hiding spot. We’ll worry about Adagio later, if we worry about her at all.”

“But, who will be the Princess then?” cried Sonata, stepping back a step from the bed.

Sunset Shimmer suppressed a gasp by putting both hands over her mouth.

Aria’s annoyance began to bubble over. She waved her arms in exasperation as she raised her voice slightly, “Sonata, I don’t get this princess obsession of yours. It’s like you’re a scared little filly sometimes! Go to school. Meet new friends. People have always liked you in this world because of who you are. You’re free to grow again, if that’s what you want. Don’t let Adagio change you now!”

“All right, Aria. I’ll do my best,” she said sheepishly, with downcast lilac eyes. But there was something in her tone that concerned Sunset Shimmer. It was something subtle that she’d heard from Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom when they didn’t agree with their older sisters. Did Sonata just blow off Aria?

Softly and seriously, Aria replied, “Remember Baltimare. Remember what you did there. We went hungry that night and Adagio and I were both angry with you. But, to all those people, you were an inspiration.” She gave Sonata a hug that was uncertainly returned.

From there, the farewells cascaded. Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Rainbow Dash, and Sonata Dusk all departed for Canterlot High School. Sunset Shimmer and Aria Blaze stayed in the dwelling above the Carousel Boutique to eat breakfast and shared more coffee. Sunset Shimmer chose fruit and yogurt while Aria hungrily ate the entire pot of soup that Fluttershy had started along with several rolls. The two shared small talk, mostly about Rarity’s choices in interior decorating.

After clearing away the dishes, Sunset Shimmer finally asked, “So, what was that all about?”

Aria threw back the covers and stretched. She rose from the bed and unsteadily walked towards the other easy chair. Arranging her unbound purple hair over one shoulder and absentmindedly combing the teal highlights with her fingers, she sat across from Sunset Shimmer.

“Put on another pot of coffee, Sunset Shimmer. I’m going to tell you everything,” Aria instructed.

“Of course,” she replied, briefly leaving the bedroom and walking to the kitchen.

Aria saw the large journal on the table. Curious, she reached out and touched the red-and-gold sunburst on the cover and felt the tingle of Equestrian magic.

Open it! Learn her secrets! Split her from the others! The cruel, effective side of Aria ordered.

Ask her after you tell her. The lady in your dream said she was special. Sunset will help you, if you ask. The emerging selfless, patient side of Aria cautioned.

Last night’s vivid dream defeated her past for the time being, and she withdrew her purple-hued fingers from the cover.

Sunset Shimmer returned with two full mugs. She said with a smile, “I think we’re as prepared as we can be for this conversation. Though, I think we’ve cleaned out Rarity’s coffee supply. She does prefer tea, after all.”

Taking a deep sip and a deeper breath, Aria Blaze began, “Okay, a thousand years ago, I was born under the seas of Equus in the realm of Aquastria…”

After hearing the first part of Aria’s incredible story about ancient Aquastria, learning how she, Sonata, and Adagio were claimed by He Who Swims in Darkness, Sunset Shimmer grabbed a school notebook and took rough notes before the oral history outpaced her memory. The two agreed to let Aria finish her story before Sunset Shimmer would ask questions. Aria’s expressions were fairly neutral through most of the telling, while the unicorn-turned-girl couldn’t fully conceal her amazement, surprise, and fear.

Sunset could empathize with the Siren’s perspective of the Battle of the Bands, having been blasted by the rainbow power of Harmony once herself. The rainbow inflicted unique effects that combined pain, an intense rebuke, unbearable self-awareness, complete isolation from dark sources of power, and finally, it granted rekindled hope. As Aria told Sunset about how she tracked Apple Bloom and Scootaloo to the clubhouse and then the cemetery, tears spilled from both of their eyes. Finally, she revealed her dream, down to the smallest detail.

“…and then I woke up in Rarity’s bed, thinking about you and that symbol,” Aria finished, pointing at the book on the coffee table.

Sunset Shimmer dried her eyes and gave a low whistle, shaking her head. Still overwhelmed, she said, “Wow. How in Tartarus do you expect me to deal with all of that? I have a few questions to make sure I have it all right, before we figure out what’s next. Okay?”

Aria nodded and refilled her coffee mug from the pot, mixing in the correct amounts of cream and sugar. She was still a little pale but seemed very relieved to tell her whole story to someone she trusted.

Sunset Shimmer, mostly to herself, said, “First, I need to figure out what questions aren’t for you.” She reviewed her notes and thought:

Scootaloo’s parents and the Apples were killed in a car accident that involved each other? That’s heartbreaking and explains so much. No wonder the Crusaders are so close! Most teenagers (both ponies and humans) sneak off at night to meet boyfriends or to go to a party. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom lay flowers at a cemetery. Incredible!

“So, you were turned into a Siren by an evil monster that lives underwater?” inquired Sunset aloud.

“Yep. Pretty much. Though, ‘evil overlord deity’ may be closer to the truth,” answered Aria, distastefully fingering one of the purple bows crisscrossing the front of Rarity’s loaned nightgown.

“And, this He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness pretty much propped up this whole slavery, death, and female domination thing that went on down there a thousand years ago?”, Sunset Shimmer questioned, waving the pen that Twilight Sparkle had given her.

“You’re tracking,” replied Aria with a single nod.

“Here’s where it gets tricky. The three of you actually tried to divide Equestria to make it so Adagio’s mother and this nasty squid could take over? You fought against Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl the Bearded? You nearly won?”

A purple eyebrow raised and she crossed her arms, saying, “Guilty as charged. But, in their defense, we had been absorbing a lot of negative energy before that fight.”

Sunset Shimmer found herself liking Aria’s direct responses punctuated with demonstrative facial expressions. Applejack with an edge, she thought. “Okay. So this He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness is a major league player. But you told Sonata that you think he needs you more than you need him?” she asked.

Aria sighed, “Adagio is the key. Most of the information and the power from the Master flowed through her, unless he was talking to all three of us at once. Because she was raised in the palace and temple, she knows things about him that we don’t. It might explain why she was so desperate to get back once she felt the magic from your getting blasted by that giant rainbow in the fall. The only thing that makes me use the word ‘desperate’ is the fact that for once, Adagio didn’t have much of a backup plan. We really hadn’t heard anything from He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness in a long, long time.”

Sunset Shimmer tapped the amethyst six-pointed star on her pen against her temple in thought and said, “Hmm… Let’s shift to the present. Do you know why Adagio wanted you to follow the girls?”

Aria’s frown deepened, “After she beat the stuffing out of Sonata, I sort of stopped asking Adagio many questions. I was just so used to doing what she said. She didn’t let much slip, but she was angry and humiliated. Revenge was the way we solved problems where we came from, so I think she was in the early phases of planning something awful.”

Sunset Shimmer mirrored Aria’s concern, pulling her leather jacket a little tighter and crossing her arms. She replied, “So you don’t think she’s not going to give up or shift gears like you and Sonata?”

Aria shook her head and said, “Not likely. Adagio still considers herself a princess, a ruler. She hated exile because she couldn’t lead and protect the mermares and the Empire. Even though her mother’s leadership was cruel, I think Adagio had some noble goal buried inside. Why else would she train herself to sing? The lack of magic here didn’t bother her so much, but the lack of power did. My mother served in the royal guard for my entire life. Duty and obligation are important to mermares, but I see that Adagio learned from her mother and He Who Swims in Darkness how to twist that into control. Here’s my point: What frightens me is that until a few days ago, Adagio and I truly believed that we were helping the Empire. I can’t even guess what Adagio might be thinking now that her foundation has been rocked, quite literally, by you and your friends.” Aria smiled at her own pun.

“I don’t know much about Aquastria, but I did learn about it a bit at Celestia’s school. It’s much different now than what you described. King Leo rules there now and the seaponies and mermares live side by side. Mermares are supposed to be beautiful but a bit standoffish. No offense, Aria,” said Sunset Shimmer with a comforting smile.

“None taken,” Aria answered flatly.

“What’s your take on Sonata?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

Aria shrugged her shoulders, and said, “For a thousand years, I have never been able to figure out what’s going on in her head. Some days, I think her skull is full of fluff. But, I’ve seen her twist many human males and more than a few females to her will with that innocent smile.”

“At least she’s well watched by the others while she figures all this out. Now it’s time for some of my secrets, Aria,” said Sunset Shimmer, leaning forward.

Aria leaned back in the chair with a smile. Crossing her legs, she motioned with her hand, indicating that Sunset Shimmer should continue.

“Sonata gave me the shards to her Siren pendant. I can tell there’s still some power left inside. I’m going to make a magic item from them, a focus for the background magic that’s been slowly building in this world over the past few months.”

As surprised as she was when waking in Rarity’s bed, Aria’s mouth fell open. She replied, astonished, “You can do this?”

“Well, I think so. I was getting really good at it before I came to this world. I can make great jewelry, so the artistry isn’t a problem. It’s the magic I need to figure out,” Sunset Shimmer answered, shifting uncomfortably in the easy chair.

Still excited, Aria reached out for Sunset Shimmer’s hand, “Can you make a weapon?”

Blushing under the intense purple-eyed gaze, Sunset Shimmer said hesitantly, “I’m more into jewelry molds to create rings, necklaces, and maybe some earrings. With the right tools, I could forge something simple that’s based in a mold, like a club or a mace. Sorry, but these,” she waggled her fingers, “don’t have enough strength to make something with hammered edges.”

“I want to give you my pendant shards, but only if you turn them into a weapon,” Aria insisted, “I don’t think the woman from my dream can help me again and I want to be ready for anything before my old Master can get his tentacles involved. I had always been Adagio’s enforcer and now I want to help you. The shards are with my belongings at the Canterlot Aquarium.”

Sunset Shimmer’s heart was pounding. The past hour had changed everything. She thought that this would be mopping up after the Battle of the Bands. Now, the fight they had barely won was only an opening skirmish in something much darker and deeply shrouded in mystery. Doing her best impression of Princess Celestia, she replied evenly, “I’m grateful for your help, Aria. I can’t promise you a weapon, but I promise you my best effort.”

Aria Blaze gave Sunset Shimmer a sardonic smile, and jokingly said, “Well, now I have some really serious business for you. Can you find me some clothes that I don’t want to tear to shreds?”

With a throaty laugh and a smile that touched her blue-green eyes, she replied, “There’s a whole store down there to choose from and I’m on pretty good terms with the owner. I think we can find something your speed. Then, let’s head over to my apartment. There are a few things I’ve stashed there that we may need.”

They spent the next three-quarters of an hour getting ready to go. Despite her inner transformation, Aria didn’t make too many fashion changes, selecting skinny jeans, a dark, form-fitting top and practical boots. She styled her purple-and-teal hair in twin ponytails as usual, but with much less ostentatious ornamentation. The only odd moment came when Aria was presented her original clothes. She recoiled and demanded that they be destroyed. When Sunset asked about her reaction, Aria reminded her about the part of the dream when she reached the village and the leather bands disintegrated. The red-and-gold-haired girl carefully folded the clothes and placed the outfit in a bag to be dealt with later.

Sunset Shimmer humored Elegant Ensemble (and Rarity, by extension) and subjected herself to an orange silk blouse instead of a T-shirt, but kept her favorite skirt and leather jacket. They hit the timing right, because they were ready to go, just as Fluttershy entered the boutique struggling with a heavy load of books and papers.

Her pink hair was windblown and a chill came in from the busy street outside. She set down what she was carrying and said softly with a warm smile, “Hi there, Aria. I’m so glad to see you up and about.”

Aria swept up the shy girl in a hug and said, “Thank you for saving my life.”

Fluttershy, surprised and uncomfortable, could only whisper, “You’re welcome. Anyone else would have done the same.”

“No, they wouldn’t,” Aria replied steadily, breaking the hug and holding the other girl by the shoulders, “which is why I’m so grateful.”

Fluttershy, still self-conscious, replied, “Well, thank you. But, Sunset Shimmer is the one that cast…”

Sunset Shimmer loudly interrupted, “What did you do with spring, Fluttershy?”

Aria looked at Sunset Shimmer and raised an eyebrow in frustration. Fluttershy answered the question with a frown, “I don’t think this gloomy day was in the forecast.”

“It’s a good thing we have your van, then! Hey, could you give us a lift over to my apartment? I have to pick up a few things for an important project,” Sunset asked.

Fluttershy nodded and said, "Of course! Let's go!" The three girls left the Carousel Boutique together to tackle the cloudy, windy day.

Author's Note

I've decided to split what was originally a single installment into Chapter Six and Chapter Seven. Therefore, I'm aware that this ended abruptly. Chapter Seven will be posted very shortly with additional acknowledgements.

Thanks for your continued support!

Chapter Seven

Sonata, Sweetie Belle, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash all made it to their separate first period classes at Canterlot High School with only seconds to spare. Sonata sauntered confidently into her homeroom, clutching her books to her chest. Ms. Raven’s eyes, and the eyes of nearly every student in the class followed Sonata Dusk as she smoothed her skirt and settled into Sunset Shimmer’s normal seat, seemingly oblivious to the attention. The morning bell rang loudly, returning the class to its normal routine.

Vice-Principal Luna went through an unremarkable set of announcements over the school’s public address system, as Ms. Raven began to write on the whiteboard, outlining the day’s lesson. In ten-inch-tall letters, the name “William Shakespeare” took shape and a long list of titles began to fill the rest of the whiteboard. As Luna cheerfully concluded her announcements, Ms. Raven sipped her mug of coffee and began to teach.

“Today, ladies and gentlemen, we begin a high school literature rite of passage. For the next three weeks, we will be studying the Bard himself, William Shakespeare!” Ms. Raven announced grandly.

The class groaned. Sonata Dusk was cheerfully smiling, doodling in the margins of the plain notebook that Sweetie Belle had pressed into her hands. Ms. Raven handed out thick books containing several plays and to get them in the mood, she insisted that the work their way through the Third Act of Hamlet. Noticing Sonata’s inattention, Ms. Raven smirked and assigned her the role of Ophelia to the giggles of the entire class.

Sonata’s ecstatic reaction took the entire class by surprise, “I love this one! Thanks, Ms. Raven!”

Raven frowned and mingled confusion and annoyance clouded her eyes for a moment before she continued guiding her reluctant students through the text. She said, “Principal Celestia has taken pity on you and directed me to use modern language instead of the original version. I think Shakespeare is better the old way, but maybe you’ll understand it better than last year’s class,” she finished with a sigh.

Humming softly to herself, Sonata absently stood during the first scene, strode to the front of the classroom and delivered Ophelia’s soliloquy expressing sadness that Hamlet is apparently losing his mind. Unlike any of the other hesitant cast members, who remained in their seats struggling with the difficult text, Sonata delivered her lines with practiced force and emotion. For a moment, she wasn’t pretending to be Ophelia. She was Ophelia:

Oh, how noble his mind used to be, and how lost he is now!
He used to have a gentleman’s grace, a scholar’s wit, and a soldier’s strength.
He used to be the jewel of our country, the obvious heir to the throne, the one everyone admired and imitated.
And now he has fallen so low!
And of all the miserable women who once enjoyed hearing his sweet, seductive words, I am the most miserable.
A mind that used to sing so sweetly is now completely out of tune, making harsh sounds instead of fine notes.
The unparalleled appearance and nobility he had in the full bloom of his youth has been ruined by madness.
O, how miserable I am to see Hamlet now and know what he was before!

The class burst into spontaneous applause, a score of jaws hanging open in awe at Sonata’s brief unrehearsed performance. As soon as she finished speaking, the poised mask evaporated from the blue-skinned girl’s face. A distracted, sweetly smiling Sonata Dusk calmly walked back to Sunset Shimmer’s seat and resumed drawing hearts, stars, and musical notes on her blank notebook page.

Flash Sentry leaned over and whispered, “Hey, Sonata? That was amazing! Where did you learn to do that?”

Sonata basked in the male attention. She flipped her ponytail with her hand and replied, with half-lidded lilac eyes, “Why, Trottingham, of course! Where else?” She pointedly ignored the boy, apparently concentrating on her artwork with a tiny smile on her lips.

Flash, sputtering for multiple reasons, had no coherent reply. He proceeded to butcher Horatio’s lines for the remainder of the class.

Mercifully, the bell rang after forty-five long minutes, allowing the students to escape. Flash Sentry practically sprinted for the door.

After the bell stopped its racket, Ms. Raven asked loudly, “Sonata, could I have a word with you, please?”

Sonata didn’t answer, but walked straight to the desk at the front of the room.

Ms. Raven enthusiastically said, “That was an incredible performance! You must have performed Shakespeare at your last school.”

For some reason, Sonata felt wary. Her spine tingled and itched. She couldn’t quite put her fingers on why she wanted to get away from Ms. Raven as quickly as possible. Sonata decided that the Big Macintosh approach would work best here.

“Nope,” she replied.

“But, you’ve performed this play before, right?”

“Yep,” Sonata replied.

Clenching her jaw and adjusting the bun holding her long black hair, Raven tamped down her rising anger. She shifted subjects and said, “Listen, Sonata. I have more important things I need to discuss with you. I’m so glad to see that you’re making new friends here at Canterlot High so soon after the, um, unfortunate events of the past week. But, I need to pass on that your friend of many years, Adagio Dazzle, is very worried about you.”

Still in Big Mac mode and hiding her agitation, Sonata wisely kept her mouth shut. She only raised a blue eyebrow at the revelation.

“Don’t worry. Adagio is safe and quite comfortable. I’ve seen to that personally.” The dark-haired teacher smiled at Sonata Dusk. Ms. Raven continued, handing her a card, “But she’d like to see you and talk a few things out. When you’re ready, just call this number, all right?”

“Thank you, Ms. Raven. I will pick the right time to visit. Please trust me on that,” Sonata replied with an innocent smile. She turned on a heel and glided out of the classroom, letting her shoulders slump in relief as soon as she passed out of Ms. Raven’s sight.

As Sonata left, Raven clenched her fists in frustration, her skin becoming several shades more pale for a moment. As the next set of students began to arrive, Raven mumbled angrily through gritted teeth, “How does Adagio stand her?”

Sonata Dusk stepped through the doors of the Canterlot High School library. Aside from the gymnasium, it was the largest room in the school, consisting of two floors of bookshelves and a sizable contingent of computers. Windows high up on the walls let in copious amounts of natural light that illuminated volumes of every shape, size, and subject. Sonata ignored the books, and walked straight to the small desk near the computer center. The simple office chair, along with the rest of the library, was empty. A wooden nameplate, emblazoned with a daisy, declared the desk’s owner to be “Cheerilee.”

Sonata stealthily stepped behind the desk and gave the chair a lazy spin with a blue-tinted index finger. With narrowed eyes, she shrewdly appraised the objects on the desk. Most were practical or aesthetically decorative, such as a pencil sharpener shaped like an apple, a ceramic desk organizer resembling an open book, and a small vase that contained fresh flowers. None of these items interested Sonata. Instead she peered intently at the two picture frames to the right of a computer monitor.

The chair halted its gyration by bumping against Sonata’s leg as she stepped forward. Both pictures were of Cheerilee and Big Macintosh. The pretty young woman, with curly two-toned purple hair falling past her shoulders was smiling happily at Applejack’s brother, her lavender-hued hand entwined in Big Macintosh’s larger red-tinted fingers. The two were running through an avalanche of autumn leaves falling at Sweet Apple Acres. The second picture, framed in plastic snowflakes and icicles, showed the two of them affectionately standing together in a posed picture, wearing formal wear. The young farmer had his hand comfortably on the librarian’s waist. Cheerilee was radiant in a floor length, clinging green gown. Sonata stared at Big Macintosh, who was dignified and resplendent in a black tuxedo.

Sonata was smitten. He’s gorgeous and so strong. He will give me what I’ve wanted for so long.

“Oh, my prince…” Sonata whispered greedily to herself, reaching out to touch the picture.

“May I help you?” announced a friendly voice.

Sonata, knowing that she had nearly been caught with her hand in the apple barrel, moved her hand toward the desk organizer and grabbed a pen.

Turning slowly toward the voice, she smiled and said innocently, “Oh, hi, Miss Cheerilee! I was about to leave you a note. I was trying to find some music history books.”

A purple eyebrow arched questioningly. “Do I know you?” she asked.

Sonata quickly sized up the woman in the pictures, mind calculating while she kept a pleasant facial expression. Instinct took over as she came to a hasty set of mental conclusions: She’s pretty, but not beautiful. I’m taller and stronger than she is. She’s intelligent, but without guile. Noticing crayon-drawn pictures on the edge of her desk, Sonata made her final conclusion: She has a weakness because she’s fond of children.

“Oh, I’m Sonata. I’m a new student here,” she replied.

“It’s just that I’ve been on vacation for the past week and a half. I’m surprised that you knew my name.”

Sonata pointed to the nameplate and smiled sweetly. “I just made a lucky guess,” she squeaked, imitating Sweetie Belle.

Cheerilee returned the smile and waved Sonata forward. She directed, “Come on, follow me.”

The student obediently followed the teacher to a distant corner of the library. Cheerilee waved her arm at the shelf and said, “Here we are! I hope you can find what you’re looking for.”

Sonata said sharply, “Wait! I have a quick question.”

“What is it, dear?” Cheerilee patiently asked.

“I was admiring the pictures on your desk. Who is that handsome man you’re with?” she inquired with a breathy voice.

“Oh, that’s my boyfriend,” Cheerilee replied, with a happy faraway look in the general direction of the ceiling.

“What’s he like?”

“Honest, strong, and hard-working,”

Absently selecting a couple of books, Sonata breezily continued her interrogation, asking “So, how long have you been seeing each other?”

“Oh, we’ve been together for a few months, now. He was two years behind me here at CHS. I went away to college and when I came back, Big Macintosh was all grown up. We still probably wouldn’t have gotten together unless…” she trailed off, shaking her head.

Sonata’s blue lips pressed together and her eyes narrowed. “Just how serious are you two?” she asked impertinently.

Cheerilee became suspicious, replying, “I think that question is a little too personal for a student to be asking a teacher.”

Sonata opened her mouth to deliver a stinging reply. Before she could speak, a pink blur knocked her to the ground.

“THERE YOU ARE!" Pinkie Pie shouted. “You’re missing history class! Now I’m missing history class. Let’s go!”

“Shhhh!” demanded Cheerilee.

“But nobody’s in here, Ms. Cheerilee. Why do we need to be quiet if the place is empty?”

“Because I prefer it quiet, Pinkie Pie, and because those are the rules!” ordered the librarian. Turning to Sonata she said, “I see you’ve made some selections. Would you like to check them out?” Cheerilee examined Sonata’s blank, smiling face, wondering why she felt so uneasy.

“Yes, please,” replied Sonata cheerfully. She adopted a schoolgirl pose, clasping her hands in front of her, below her waist.

“Oooh, what did you get?” asked Pinkie Pie, prying at Sonata’s fingers to read the cover of the topmost book.

Cheerilee answered for her, “It appears she went classical. You have a book with Beethoven, some Handel, and some Mozart. All three of these have music discs, too. Where’s your library card?”

Sonata fumbled in her bag. She asked nervously, “Um, Pinkie, could you help me out? I seem to be missing my card.”

“Okiedokielokie!” the cheerful girl cried, checking out the books for her friend.

As the two girls left the library, Sonata looked back over her shoulder and waved. She said, “Thank you very much, Ms. Cheerilee. I hope to talk to you again, soon!”

Later, the diminished group of friends gathered at their usual cafeteria table to enjoy lunch. The group of five, consisting of Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, and Sonata Dusk, left one of the six seats empty. Between bites, the five of them traded stories about their rescue of Aria Blaze the night before.

“I just knew something was wrong!” cried Pinkie Pie, waving her hands in the air.

“How’s that?” asked Sonata innocently.

Applejack rolled her eyes, “Now you’ve done it,” she groaned.

“I have a Pinkie Sense! When I get a chill right in the middle of my back,” she explained, “it means that something bad is going to happen. And this one was a doozie!” Pinkie’s antics looked almost like a seizure, but nobody was concerned, except possibly Sonata. Pinkie Pie was simply Pinkie Pie and nearly all of CHS accepted it as fact.

“I’m just so glad that Sunset Shimmer took charge the way she did. She was simply divine,” said Rarity admiringly.

Rainbow Dash and Applejack exchanged a conspiratorial look. Rainbow Dash’s smirk widened as she asked, “When did you become such a big fan?

“Rainbow Dash, whatever are you talking about?” replied Rarity, suppressing a blush as best she could.

She brushed a multicolored forelock out of her eyes, “Okay. Sure. By the way, when’s the last time you had us over for a sleepover and you busted out the expensive dresses?”

Rarity sputtered, her blush deepening.

Rainbow Dash pressed her advantage with a smug grin, declaring, “Let me see… that would be… NEVER!"

Sonata leaned across the table and came to Rarity’s rescue by asking, “Applejack, could I help you at the farm this afternoon?”

“Of course, sugar cube! You did such a great job last time. If you like, you can even spend the night with us again. Would you like that?” replied Applejack, smiling.

She nodded vigorously, blue hair flying, “Very much so! Thank you!”

“All right, then! I’ll meet you out by the statue after school,” she said, repositioning her ever-present hat.

Fluttershy parked the battered old van in front of the dingy apartment building.

“Here we are!” the pink-haired girl said cheerfully.

Fluttershy’s van was alternatingly a mark of pride and a badge of shame to the six friends. Lime green in color, the vehicle was at least forty years old. The interior had thick beige shag carpeting that had absorbed the odors of numerous stray animals. When the vehicle functioned, its owner would drive anywhere, for any reason, with no questions asked. Sadly, the van appeared to be nearing the end of its long life, with Sunset Shimmer and Fluttershy collaborating on increasingly difficult repairs.

Sunset Shimmer continued to be surprised by Fluttershy’s depth and resilience. While often terrified of her own shadow, Sunset had seen her bring puppies into the world and respectfully lay ancient pets to rest. Fluttershy was indefatigably kind, even when covered in oil, blood, and the less identifiable bodily fluids of her patients.

“You live here?” Aria asked suspiciously, eyeing the suspect neighborhood.

“Not really, not anymore,” Sunset Shimmer replied, “but I haven’t figured out where else to go. Besides, I’m really good at occupying guest rooms and couches.”

“There’s always a spot for you at the cottage, Sunny,” said Fluttershy with a wink.

“Your rabbit doesn’t like me, Fluttershy. I swear, that bunny is going to smother me in my sleep one night.”

Aria shook her head, mouth open in disbelief. She looked as if her brain had turned to jelly and had started to ooze out of her ears. She cried, “What are you talking about? Let’s get Sunset’s stuff and go somewhere else. Something here gives me the creeps.”

“Okay, let’s go,” Sunset replied.

The three girls climbed the filthy flights of concrete stairs and entered a fourth-floor passageway. Sunset Shimmer produced a keychain.

Smiling, she announced, “Okay, here it is! The maid’s been on vacation for the past couple months, so don’t mind the mess.”

Sunset turned the key and said, “Come on in! Home, sweet….”

“Oh my!” squeaked Fluttershy, bumping into Sunset Shimmer’s back.

Aria Blaze frowned and clenched her fists.

Sunset Shimmer’s tiny efficiency apartment was usually a mess, but it had been obviously ransacked, with drawers emptied onto the bed and belongings scattered everywhere, except for one place. The kitchenette was clean and orderly, with a freshly washed pot and spoon in the drying rack. Sitting in the sink was a large metal box, false bottom askew, with two items in it.

The first item was a jewel-shaped belt buckle. Light orange in color and made of semiprecious stones, its origin was obvious to all three girls.

“Adagio,” said Aria, her voice dripping with venom.

The second item was a folded piece of notebook paper.

Sunset Shimmer was near tears, her hand shaking as she reached for the paper. Sniffing loudly, she opened it, for all three of them to read together. As they read, Fluttershy wrapped her arms protectively around her friend and Aria clenched her fists and gritted her teeth.

Welcome home, Sunset Shimmer! It’s a pity that you weren’t putting your resources to good use. Fortunately, for me, I’ve relieved you of that burden. It would be dreadful if your good friends learned about what you’ve been keeping from them for so long. I know you don’t want that to happen, so I’ll contact you soon to set up a trade.

You really should consider going home, before this matter becomes truly unpleasant. Your view of the throne room is really quite spectacular. How did you manage that? We really must talk…

Adagio Dazzle

Stapled to the bottom of the note were two pictures.

The first was a slightly younger and significantly crueler-looking Sunset Shimmer sliding a box full of small vials across a table to a dangerous-looking man in a dark suit. Also on the table was a briefcase full of cash, obviously payment for the vials.

The second picture was the same younger Sunset Shimmer dressed in a scandalous miniskirt and plunging top, passionately kissing an athletic man with a brown mustache who wore a flowered shirt and blue jeans. Fluttershy recognized the man as Rarity’s much older and very married father.

Sunset Shimmer slumped to her knees on the cheap linoleum floor, sobbing and inconsolable.

Fluttershy took the pictures from the floor and looked at them closely. Her dark teal eyes widened in shock and a pale yellow hand went to her mouth, "Ohhhhhh.... Oh, my!" she exclaimed, "Sunset Shimmer, what is this?"

It took some time for her response to become coherent between sobs, "I sold powdered Mare's Bridle flowers to those guys. They're my favorite snack in Equestria. When I came through the portal, I learned they make humans very, very happy for a time."

"So, they're drugs?" asked Aria bluntly.

"No!" Sunset screamed, "They're not addictive. They act more like an antidepressant than a narcotic or opiate. At any rate, they're all gone, and those guys know not to bother me again."

Satisfied with the first explanation, Fluttershy frowned when she asked, "What about this, then?" She held up the picture of Sunset Shimmer and Rarity's father.

Her sobs turned soundless and Sunset Shimmer squeezed her blue-green eyes shut. She wiped her streaming nose on her leather jacket. She started to speak to Fluttershy three times before finally explaining, "Nothing more than the kiss ever happened. I swear this to you by Celestia's horn! He is wealthy and has a reputation for a wandering eye. I had the kiss photographed to blackmail him for an inappropriate relationship with a high school student. Even though I'm really twenty years old, nobody knows that here." Sunset shimmer wailed, "Oh, Rarity, I'm so sorry!"

Aria folded her arms across her chest and asked neutrally, "How much did you get?"

Sunset looked up at the imposing Siren and replied meekly, "Twenty-five thousand dollars."

Fluttershy, sad and stern, said, "What did you do with it?"

"Fluttershy, I bought the last items I needed to finish the fake Element of Magic and to bribe the jeweler to let me use his facility," she replied.

"Then something good came of it. Without that crown, we would never have become friends," Fluttershy said, hugging a devastated Sunset Shimmer.

The three held onto each other wordlessly for a long time. Fluttershy comfortingly stroked her friend’s red-and-gold streaked hair.

Gently reaching out to touch Sunset Shimmer’s cheek, Fluttershy said, “Sunny, I know this must be a big problem. I don’t understand how big it is yet, but we love you for who you are, and I forgive you for who you were.”

Aria stood and handed Sunset Shimmer a paper towel. Loudly blowing her nose and wiping her eyes, Sunset moaned, “She took everything, Flutters! She stole the money, the gold, the cell phones, the blackmail pictures, my notes, the payment ledger, the storage chips, and the Equestrian gemstones!” And, the compact... I can't tell them about the compact yet, she thought.

Aria knelt down again and looked Sunset in the eyes, “So?”

Giving Fluttershy’s hand a squeeze, she finished, “That’s enough evidence to send me to jail for a long time.”

Aria, with a fierce look, continued, “But she won’t! Adagio is trying to divide you – no, divide us - by forcing you to run away. Then, she can take her revenge on one Rainboom at a time. It’s her way, and I won’t let it happen again.”

“But, Adagio now knows all the evil things I’ve done. I betrayed my friends before I ever knew them! I plotted to take over this city and then Equestria!” Sunset cried.

“Damn it, Sunset!” Aria swore. “You’re the key to all of this! Fluttershy and I and all of us have to protect you. The Master is stirring, and you must be the one to stop Adagio. One friend forgives you. The others will, too. I have to believe that. You have to believe that too, or all of your struggles are for nothing,” Aria finished defiantly, her violet eyes flashing with anger at Adagio and affection for Sunset Shimmer.

“I know someone else who can help. She was the first one to forgive you,” said Fluttershy, retrieving the Equestrian tome from Sunset Shimmer’s discarded bag.

“Thank you both. But, the others are going to be harder to convince. You have no idea of all the other things I did to get the resources I needed to make that fake crown,” Sunset said, slowly regaining her composure.

Fluttershy knelt on the floor again, staring intently into Sunset Shimmer’s aqua eyes. She put her will into every soft word she said, “What matters is what’s in here now,” she tapped the orange shirt over the other girl’s heart, “not what was in that box.”

Sunset Shimmer felt her will seeping away into Fluttershy's dark teal irises. The stare put an end to Sunset Shimmer’s crying. Unusually calm, affected by Fluttershy’s words, she took the book from the other girl’s pale yellow hands. Still sitting on the dirty linoleum, she opened it to the latest entry:

Dear Sunset Shimmer:

Thank you for the picture! The three of you look so beautiful and so happy. That must have been a wonderful night. I certainly needed that smile after a difficult day here in Ponyville. And, sending the picture through the book is an innovative use of its magic. Why didn’t I think of that?

The handwriting changed subtly, becoming more angular.

I’m glad you wrote again and even happier that Aria is all right. I won’t mince words, as my checklist is long and time is short. Your second letter set events in motion here in Equestria. When you told me about your healing spell, I sent a dispatch to Princess Celestia. Just before dawn, Princess Luna arrived unannounced with several books and a pile of objects from Canterlot. I was about to activate the portal and come to help you, but Luna was insistent that I not put myself at risk. Her words of warning gave me chills:

“Twilight Sparkle, you are the star around which two worlds revolve. If you perish in that world, or worse, fall to the shadow, all is lost across the myriad of realities of which you are only beginning to learn. You are a Princess of Equestria. Only enter the battlefield yourself in the direst of circumstances. In the days and years to come, you will make many choices that will determine your destiny and that of those you love. This is but a first step into that broader world. You must choose a champion that can help Sunset Shimmer prevent the return of evil even more dangerous than the Sirens. Do not pass through the portal yourself until this threat is defeated.”

Sunset, what are you up against? I talked things over with my friends today to decide how best to help you. Actually, Fluttershy convinced me that this is the right thing to do, though I still have my doubts. We are still gathering supplies and safeguarding them against transformation, but I will open the portal tomorrow at dawn to allow one rather unique individual to pass through.

He made his case for me to send him to you by demanding an opportunity to atone for his past crimes. Be patient with him, Sunset Shimmer. He has the knowledge and the magic I think you need, but he can be annoying, prideful, and unpredictable.

Yours in friendship,
Twilight Sparkle

P.S. To address your personal question about Rarity, I have attached a photograph of my castle’s throne room. That will help you understand my point of view, but you have to make your own choices. Please forgive Princess Luna, but she insisted upon being in the picture for some reason.

Sunset Shimmer looked at Fluttershy and Aria, weakly smiled, and said, “She’s sending us help! Aria, maybe this mystery pony will help us forge your weapon.” She profusely thanked Fluttershy and the two girls continued to embrace one another. Sunset Shimmer’s tears began to flow again, slowly transforming from despair to hope.

Aria reached into the book and pulled the photograph free. Examining it closely, she saw seven thrones at the edge of a large circle with an asymmetrical eight-pointed star decorating the center of the floor. The six larger thrones were evenly spaced and each was decorated with a different symbol. Only one throne had a smaller one next to it, perhaps for a diminutive aide. None of the other five were larger or more ornate than the others. They were exactly the same. But, what demanded Aria’s attention was the majestic figure standing atop the eight-pointed star.

With wings extended, a dusky gray-and-blue alicorn with an ebony crown stared defiantly and directly into the camera’s lens. Her midnight blue mane and tail flowed across the room with flecks of stars twinkling in their depths. Upon her flank was a white crescent moon upon a field of black. The same symbol was duplicated in an ebony necklace around her muscled neck. But, what Aria noticed most were the sea-green eyes, with the merest hint of blue. They were the same eyes of the mysterious figure in her dream.

Aria Blaze whispered to the picture, "My Lady, how may I serve you?”

*****

Quote from William Shakespeare's Hamlet - Act 3, Scene 1 obtained from No Fear Shakespeare at http://nfs.sparknotes.com/hamlet/page_146.html)

Author's Note

This concludes the updates for now! I hope that you enjoyed both Chapter Six and Chapter Seven, and I'm eager to learn what you think of recent developments on both sides of the mirror. I salute (and bow with a flourish) to IsabellaAmoreSirenix who has been an immense help with prereading and proofreading while juggling her own life and daily fanfic submissions.

I had to bite the bullet and increase the rating to "Teen." Sunset's past has now been revealed to the point where this story isn't for everyone.

Thank you once again for continuing to support this story and investing your valuable time to read it! As mentioned in a separate blog post, I continue to be awed by the wonderful people that I meet as I craft this adventure. I hope to have Chapter Eight completed in the next two weeks. Enjoy the rest of your week!

Chapter Eight

“Sunset Shimmer, can you tell me who this is?” said Aria Blaze, reverently offering the picture of Princess Twilight Sparkle’s throne room with both hands.

Fluttershy helped Sunset stand. All three girls took a closer look at the picture that was sent magically from Equestria via the enchanted book.

Fluttershy was the first to speak. “She’s beautiful! Is that what Twilight looks like in her world?”

Sunset Shimmer shook her head, tears drying as she concentrated on the picture. She recalled Princess Twilight’s postscript, which said that the throne room would show her point of view with regard to Rarity’s attraction to Sunset. There was something about the way that the thrones were placed, but the glorious sight of the Alicorn of the Night combined with Twilight’s announcement of assistance were preventing the unicorn-turned-young-woman from forming a complete thought about Rarity.

“Twilight looks very similar to this, but she’s smaller and her coat and wings are lavender, not dark blue. This is Princess Luna,” Sunset Shimmer answered, focusing on the matter before her eyes.

“Tell me about her,” Aria insisted, placing her hands on her hips and leaning forward.

Sunset Shimmer saw the intense look in Aria’s violet eyes and knew that a half-answer wouldn’t satisfy her. All that I know about her is from legend and from my spying on the Canterlot throne room. She was still Nightmare Moon and banished when I left Equestria, she thought. I’ll just have to wing it from what I saw in Celestia’s throne room and what’s in the palace’s stained glass windows. Suddenly, she came to a startling realization.

Sunset Shimmer gasped and cried, “Aria, I understand! You met Princess Luna in your dream! This is a very big deal and now Twilight’s quick reply makes even more sense!”

“You’ve mentioned this before, but I still can’t imagine Vice Principal Luna like this,” Fluttershy added softly. She squeezed in to take a closer look.

“I was never a history expert, but I’ll at least tell you what I know from school and growing up in Equestrian Canterlot. Let me start at the beginning. When I was a filly, we were told tall tales about Nightmare Moon. She was the Mare in the Moon whom Celestia banished a thousand years ago. Parents warned us that she would gobble up all the bad little fillies and colts. Instead of Halloween, we had Nightmare Night, where we’d collect a bunch of candy and then give some of it to Nightmare Moon to keep her from hurting us,” explained Sunset Shimmer.

Hoping to keep the compact a secret, she chose her words carefully. “Well, the first time I learned of Twilight Sparkle was when she led the effort to stop Nightmare Moon who had just escaped from her exile.” And, the first time I learned that Celestia had replaced me as her personal student, she thought. “Twilight and her friends used the Elements of Harmony to defeat her. The Elements were a legendary rediscovery in and of themselves, but even for a magical world, it was myth returned to life to learn that instead of destroying Nightmare Moon, the Elements transformed her back into the lost Princess Luna.”

A small smile tugged at the edges of Sunset Shimmer’s tear-stained face. “Luna has slowly returned to a place of honor in Equestrian society, because of Princess Celestia and Princess Twilight. You can understand why I’d be interested in the whole ‘bad guy becomes good guy’ story,” she said, adding a small shrug of her shoulders. ”But that’s about all I know. Oddly, Vice Principal Luna seems to have had a fairly ordinary life. She just works for her sister at CHS.”

With some hesitation, Aria asked, “But, Princess Luna had a sword in my dream and she seemed so wise. What’s that all about?”

“I’m sorry, Aria. I know that Luna was rumored to protect and advise ponies in the dream world, but I have to admit that you probably know more about her now than I do. If I were you, I’d be honored that Princess Luna has taken a personal interest in you,” replied Sunset Shimmer, suppressing a bit of jealousy.

Fluttershy moved out of the kitchenette and started to carefully go through the mess Adagio had created. She said softly, “Sunny, um, if you don’t mind, I think we should take what you need and get out of here. I’d much rather continue this at my house with a cup of cocoa and a blanket.”

“Coffee, Fluttershy. Please?” requested Aria with a friendly smile.

“Of course, Aria!” she answered, tying her pink hair back to make working easier.

“But we have to go to my old hideout first,” added the purple-skinned girl, holding up an index finger for emphasis.

“Oh, I almost forgot. This has been an awfully full day already,” whispered Fluttershy.

The three girls, with a task at hand, quickly and efficiently organized the apartment. Sunset Shimmer was relieved that Adagio Dazzle never thought to search under the bed. Her jeweler’s tools, clay, wax, soldering iron, mortar, pestle, and a few other specialized items were undisturbed beneath a pile of dirty clothes. The kit held enough gemstones and precious metals to accomplish two goals. First, Sunset was confident she could still make the magical focus she had been designing in her mind for the past several days. Second, while the loss of the money and items in the hidden box was just shy of catastrophic, the extra jeweler supplies could be sold for enough money to live on for a little while.

Sunset Shimmer’s composure continued to be fragile throughout the entire process. She became very angry when she discovered that Adagio Dazzle had rifled through the stocking containing the first gifts given to her by Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Rarity. The anger turned to tearful despair when she found that the only item Adagio stole was the pair of earrings that Rarity had given her. Sunset’s guilt stemming from the actions of her previous self would surely have debilitated her without the support of Fluttershy’s kindness and Aria’s determination.

The trio surveyed the apartment. Aria complimented Sunset, saying, “I’ve made it a habit of travelling light, but this is good work for a rookie.”

“Thank Celestia you both were here to help me through this. I don’t even want to think about what would have happened if I had come here by myself,” said a grateful Sunset Shimmer.

Neither do I, thought Aria Blaze, giving Fluttershy a purple-eyed look of concern as they left the apartment, weighed down with their friend's most important belongings. Sunset locked the door behind them, refusing to look back.

Twilight Sparkle’s hooves made a rhythmic clip-clop-clip-clop against the crystalline floors of her castle. The pale light of Princess Luna’s moon filtered through the windows, casting shadows across the circular throne room. Sunset Shimmer’s late-night letter had prevented sleep from coming easily, so Twilight decided to do what she always did when insomnia struck: Do some research.

“Good evening, Your Highness,” said a pleasant voice. The guard was an earth pony from Ponyville that had leapt at the chance to help at the castle.

“Please, Chocolate Haze, I’m just Twilight,” she responded pleasantly.

The brown earth pony, dressed in an ill-fitting silver breastplate, returned the smile and answered, “As you say, Princess.”

Twilight facehoofed, groaning softly. Stretching her wings, she said, “I’m going into town for a little bit.”

Forgetting Rarity’s protocol training, Chocolate Haze stretched out a hoof and cried to the figure escaping out of the throne room window, “Twilight, wait! You’re supposed to have an escort!”

The cool spring air blew through her mane as she flew the short distance from what was quickly being known as the Castle of Friendship to the town of Ponyville. Twilight smiled and felt briefly guilty about her sudden departure. The new guardsponies were only trying to do the right thing. Celestia, Luna, and Cadence had each loaned her veterans to assist with training the volunteers, but after Tirek’s assault on Equestria, the need for able-bodied ponies was high everywhere. The castle provided a badly-needed focus for the population, since nearly the entire town had been destroyed in the battle between the diabolical Tirek and Ponyville’s adopted daughter, Princess Twilight Sparkle. Powerful magic and an immediate population boost had helped reconstruction efforts, and the town was nearly rebuilt physically. Mayor Mare was rumored to be planning an event celebrating Twilight’s victory and the appearance of the castle once the last few buildings were restored, a fact that made the still self-conscious princess uncomfortable.

Lazily gliding below the clouds, the alicorn thought about the maelstrom of the past few weeks. Wielding the combined power of all four Equesrian Princesses, battling Tirek to a standstill, sacrificing her magic to save her friends, channeling the unbuffered power of the Tree of Harmony with the other Element Bearers, and then her near-failure during the Battle of the Bands was almost too much for Twilight’s brilliant mind to process. Since her return to Equestria a few days ago, she immersed herself in routine matters and took solace in the friendships that had grown so profoundly over the past year – so profoundly that they had saved all of Equestria together on several occasions.

She thought, With the castle, can I still help my friends and the people of Ponyville the way I used to? I don’t want to stop tutoring the Cutie Mark Crusaders or not make time to do the simple things that built our friendship.

Twilight Sparkle, again thinking of Sunset Shimmer, softly landed near the edge of Ponyville. Tears filled her eyes as she looked at the remains of the Golden Oak Library, her former home. With a fiery blast from his twin horns, powered by the magic he had absorbed from nearly every pony in Equestria, Tirek had destroyed the stately tree. Nopony had the heart to lay a hoof on the ruins, yet. The huge trunk and the center of the library were completely destroyed, with only the front door remaining in place. One burned bough reached defiantly to the sky, stripped of its bark. Amazingly, despite the apocalyptic battle between Twilight and Tirek that was waged in and around Ponyville, a small stand of sunflowers sat undisturbed near the tree.

As Equestria’s most famous bibliophile, Twilight mourned the loss of thousands of books. Unknown to Twilight and her five friends, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom had led the effort for the sunflowers to be the focus of an effort to thank the Princess and restore her library. Next to the sunflowers sat a large, hoofpainted cart. Books from every family in Ponyville and from all over Equestria continued to be placed lovingly inside and its cargo was delivered to the castle each day.

Twilight Sparkle was lost in a year’s worth of memories. Spike’s surprisingly good cooking, Discord’s fake illness, her first slumber party, the effects of Poison Joke, and hundreds of other images flickered through her mind. Intellectually, she knew that those moments would always remain with her even if the Golden Oak Library was no more. Emotionally, the loss of her home had deeply affected the newly-ascended Princess. Tears spilling down her face, Twilight shifted to a more productive line of thought before the feelings overcame her.

The magical book linking her to Sunset Shimmer lay open in the castle library, waiting for her to pen a response. Princess Celestia had seemed surprised that Sunset Shimmer was thriving and making friends on the other side of the mirror. Twilight was proud of her choice to trust the gold-and-red unicorn and the talents of her human CHS friends to teach Sunset about friendship. What surprised the youthful alicorn was Celestia’s apparent disappointment at her decision to help her friends through the portal.

Twilight remembered the subtle narrowing of the Princess’ violet eyes and the change in the flow of the multicolored, ethereal mane when she asked, “You didn’t think it wise to return home for advice and assistance?”

Rainbow Dash had a perfect hoofball expression for Celestia’s sentiment. Nice play, Sparkle. Don’t ever do it again!

Faint hooffalls and the sound of wings folding alerted Twilight Sparkle to the fact that she was not alone anymore. Expecting a pair of guards to watch over her, she spun around, frowning.

“Salutations to you, Princess of Friendship,” greeted Princess Luna with a small smile. Her green-blue eyes twinkled, as did the stars flowing across her mane.

“Luna, you surprised me!” gasped Twilight, placing a lavender hoof against her chest.

“I apologize, Twilight, but ‘twas entirely necessary when I couldn’t find your dreams tonight,” she answered. Looking around, she continued, “It seems we have both escaped our escorts for the time being. But, I know that will not be the case for long. So, forgive my directness.”

Twilight looked sadly at the ruined tree. She told Luna, “I couldn’t sleep, so I thought coming here might help.”

“The lesser sadness, Starswirl called it,” Luna said sympathetically, “Victory at great cost is only slightly less awful than defeat. He was a very wise unicorn and the two of you would have been legendary… companions.” Luna briefly looked away toward the horizon, and then returned her gaze to the other princess.

Not knowing what to say, Twilight helped Luna get down to business, “So, how may I help you, Princess of the Night?” she asked with an exaggerated bow and a genuine smile.

Luna’s eyes turned darker and resembled a stormy sea, “Sunset Shimmer is in great danger. Your defeat of the Sirens, while commendable, was not the end of this threat. They serve a darker Master.”

Luna’s horn flared and Twilight was drawn into those eyes, cast adrift on the tempest. Luna, sharing images from her own memory, explained how the Sirens invaded Equestria at the direction of He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness. Leviathan appeared in Twilight’s mind as a pitch-black blob of dark magic with tentacles greedily reaching for Equestria from the sea. The three Sirens sped forth, harmonizing what the royal sisters feared would be a dark finale.

“We were overwhelmed so quickly and fell back to the border of the Crystal Empire. Fortunately, Tia listened to Starswirl and let me handle the battle while she was used as bait for Leviathan,” Luna narrated over the images of her own point of view.

During the battle a thousand years in the past, a golden-scaled Adagio Dazzle staggered the Princess of the Night with the same note that had overcome Twilight during the Battle of the Bands. Before Luna’s will broke, Starswirl the Bearded’s spellcasting reached a triumphant climax that hurled the Sirens through a dark hole in a mirror-like glacier, winning victory at the last moment. Earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns cheered their general, chanting Luna’s name. Twilight felt Luna’s surprise at the army’s adoration because it was truly Starswirl’s spell that saved the day. As she looked at the bearded unicorn, she felt something else stir in her heart…

…and suddenly it was gone. The world returned to normal at the burned entrance to the Golden Oak Library. Twilight was shocked, mouth hanging open. She asked, “You led the ponies in the battle?”

“That’s what a Field Mareshall does, correct?” Luna retorted. When the younger alicorn didn’t recover from her stunned silence, Luna continued. “Your brother and few others know this secret. It’s past time you do, too. In an existential crisis, control of all Equestrian forces becomes mine. In war, I am permitted to issue orders to my sister, which must be obeyed without question. For routine matters and even conventional war, I am content to trust the existing chain of command. Who do you think told Celestia to relinquish her magic to you to combat Tirek?”

Astounded, Twilight could only ask haltingly, “You, Luna?”

“Exactly. Hear me well, Twilight Sparkle. I am the only one to both wield and to suffer attack from the Elements of Harmony. He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness slumbers and must not return to this world. At large, he will ruthlessly rule the seas and continually threaten us with dark magic. It’s likely he would ally with Chrysalis if she can be found. Because of Starswirl’s gambit, the seaponies and mermares cast off the chains of Imperial Aquastria soon after the Sirens were exiled. A young merstallion by the name of Coral Aegis defeated the Queen, freed the seaponies from bondage and destroyed the temple dedicated to Leviathan. King Leo, fulfilling your request, sent a book that summarizes that campaign as well as one that describes the current harmonious relationship between the seaponies and their former mistresses,” Luna said, inclining her head to jet-black saddlebags covering her flank.

“I’ll go at once to help Sunset Shimmer,” Twilight declared.

“NO! " Luna cried, using her Royal Canterlot Voice.

Twilight took a step forward, ready to argue. She said, “Luna, I must do this!”

Luna raised a platinum-shod hoof to calm the lavender alicorn. “Twilight Sparkle, whether you realize it or not, you are the star around which two worlds revolve. Leviathan has greater guile and deeper darkness than Tirek, who is a gluttonous brute. If you perish in that world, or worse, fall to the shadow, all is lost across the myriad of realities of which you are only beginning to learn. You are a Princess of Equestria.”

“I am learning what that means Luna. But I am not you, nor am I Cadance, nor am I Celestia,” Twilight declared, purple eyes flashing defiantly. “I know now that I was given these wings not just because of my skill in magic, but because of my friends. I will not abandon one of them now in her hour of need.”

Luna smiled, cupping Twilight’s muzzle affectionately. Her expression softened. “That simple truth is one of many things that give me hope for the future of Equestria. If you maintain that spirit, a truly glorious Princess you will be. But even Celestia listens to sound counsel and good advice,” she said admiringly.

Dropping her hoof, the Princess of the Night continued. “My advice to you, as Equestria’s only experienced Field Mareshall, is that you must only enter the battlefield yourself in the direst of circumstances. If Sunset Shimmer fails, it may come to that, but if she succeeds, it will prevent untold suffering.” Luna locked stares with Twilight, deep aqua eyes to purple, and continued. “In the days and years to come, you will make many choices that will determine your destiny and that of those you love. This is but a first step into that broader world. You must choose a champion that can help Sunset Shimmer prevent the return of evil even more dangerous than the Sirens. Do not pass through the portal yourself until this threat is defeated.”

Twilight Sparkle raised an eyebrow questioningly and replied, “A champion? I understand how confusing it would be if too many of my friends traveled through the portal, but the term ‘champion’ is, well, daunting to me. Why shouldn’t I go?”

Luna’s frustration began to show in her stormy eyes and her jaw clenched slightly. On the verge of annoyance, she deliberately said, “Both my sister and I are angry and disappointed with you for taking such a great risk on the other side of the portal. You should have come to us the moment you learned that the Sirens may have been responsible for the troubles that world was experiencing! Instead, you jumped headlong into danger, with luck and Sunset Shimmer combining to become your salvation.”

Twlight’s nostrils flared. She snorted and angrily responded to the elder alicorn, “I think you’re wrong! To take a risk and to trust in the Magic of Friendship has not been – and has never been - a mistake. You’re living proof of that fact, Luna! And, Sunset Shimmer may have just expanded the power of the Tree of Harmony. Didn’t you listen to me when I told you and Princess Celestia that the magical rainbow we conjured had seven bands of color instead of six? Sunset Shimmer could represent a new Element!”

The dusky alicorn closed her eyes and relaxed her shoulders. Her starlit mane blew gently in the breeze. Luna remained silent for a long moment and placidly replied, “Princess Twilight, I am personally grateful for your faith in your friends and in your special brand of magic that has saved us all time and again. The particular affinity that the Tree of Harmony has for you is a development that is not welcomed by all. But we will speak of that another time.”

“I understand, Luna. I will heed your advice. Though difficult, I will be patient and I will send another in my place,” Twilight said, somehow seeming taller and more regal than she was just a few moments ago.

“Has Sunset Shimmer made any requests?”

Twilight nodded and answered, “Yes, she has. She asked for information on the Sirens and anything that I could provide her for the forging of magical items and removal of curses. One of the Sirens gave her the shards of her magical pendant, and Sunset is convinced she can use it to focus the Equestrian magic that has leaked into her world.”

“That is a significant development. Was it the one known as Aria Blaze?” asked Luna enigmatically.

“No, it was Sonata Dusk,” she replied.

Princess Luna’s eyes grew wide with surprise but she delivered a mysterious response. “This is a fortuitous circumstance indeed. That fact makes it more certain that you must decide, today, who would best assist Sunset Shimmer.”

As the sky began to turn gray with the approach of dawn, two thestrals and two pegasi touched down near the ruins of the Golden Oak Library. All four bowed respectfully to the two Princesses.

Luna nodded to Twilight, indicating that she should speak. Twilight said to the guards, “I’m so glad to see your concern for our welfare. Could you fly with us back to the castle and ensure that the topmost balcony is prepared to receive Princess Luna? She must lower the moon soon.”

With an approving look back at Twilight, Princess Luna took wing, leading the flight back to the Castle of Friendship.

Waving a clenched eagle talon at Rainbow Dash, Discord cried, “I demand to be allowed to go help this Sunset Shimmer!”

“We’ve been over this a dozen times already!” shouted Rainbow Dash as she flew around the edge of the throne room. “Twilight shouldn’t let you out of her sight, ever again!”

The spirited predawn argument had begun soon after Luna and Twilight returned to the castle. Twilight summoned her friends and declared her intentions to send one of them through the portal to help Sunset Shimmer. Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie all pleaded their case. Just when the din threatened the princess’ sanity, Discord, disguised as a bookmark, leapt out of a nearby bookshelf and pushed the situation into full-fledged lunacy. Luna sipped a cup of coffee while calmly reading a book, not saying a word despite the bedlam.

The four mares’ arguments were forceful, but uninventive. Each asserted that their Elements and other strengths would give Sunset Shimmer the edge against the Sirens. Discord’s declarations were more unique but also more worrisome, given his checkered past.

“I deserve a chance to atone for my crimes, Princess Twilight,” Discord said. “How can I prove my gratitude and loyalty if I don’t get a little bit of latitude?” He suddenly sported a pirate captain’s hat that permitted his horn and antler to poke through, along with an eye patch and a spyglass. The Spirit of Chaos’ lizard leg had been replaced temporarily by a wooden peg and his hoof balanced atop a small barrel.

Discord, the Spirit of Chaos and Equestria’s only known draconequus, had become a fixture in and around Twilight Sparkle's new castle. Following the costly victory achieved by Twilight and her friends over Tirek, a restored Discord had been on his best behavior. His pranks were subdued (for him) and he was deferential to the four Princesses, especially Twilight. Fluttershy’s faith that Discord's reformation was near-total was heartwarming, but the others remained wary.

Snapping the "fingers" of his paw, Discord returned to his normal appearance. The argument would have continued until dawn and beyond if not for a soft, insistent tapping of a hoof on the arm of one of the thrones.

“Yes, Fluttershy?” Twilight Sparkle asked. Unbelievably, the room became silent.

Fluttershy stood with a determined look in her soft turquoise eyes. She addressed her friends. “Did any of you even listen to Twilight before you started shouting at each other? Did you hear what it is that Sunset Shimmer wanted? Or were you so eager to jump through the mirror that you forgot?”

Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity grumbled, but did not object. Discord slowly stroked his white beard and simply stared at the pink-maned pegasus with his mismatched eyes, his expression unreadable.

“She needs magic and knowledge. And while I dearly care for you all, there is only one of us that has enough experience to help Twilight’s friend Sunset Shimmer.” She laid a hoof on the draconequus’ paw and added, “And that is Discord.”

“Now hold on there, sugarcube,” Applejack attempted to interrupt.

“No, Applejack,” she countered firmly. “You all know I’m right. Do you know anything about metalworking? The Sirens? Thousand-year-old monsters?”

The other ponies shook their heads. Luna set her book down. Twilight concentrated on her friend’s appeal.

“But he does,” Fluttershy said, looking up at Discord’s red eyes, which were visibly misty and unfocused. “And, what harm could he be in a world with just a teeny-weeny bit of magic?” she finished with a smile. The expressions on everypony’s faces made it clear that their normally timid friend had won the argument.

Twilight shifted into Princess Mode, eager to move on. She intoned, “There is a motion on the floor to send Discord through the mirror. Do I hear a second?”

“Second,” Rarity said softly. “But, I don’t particularly like it,” she added with a toss of her purple mane.

“All in favor?”

“Aye,” came five voices in varying degrees of enthusiasm.

“Opposed?” Twilight’s question was greeted with silence. She continued, “The motion carries! Let’s get to work to gather and prepare the items that Discord needs. I will open the portal at the next dawn.”

Luna stood up and announced, “I’m glad that’s finally decided! It is time for me to lower the moon. Please excuse me, Twilight.” Tapping the still-stunned draconequus with a hoof, she added, “Discord, would you accompany me to the top of the castle?”

“Um, of course, Your Nocturnal Worshipfulness!” replied Discord, his irreverent bravado slowly returning.

The two immortals flew to the Zodiac Gallery, high above the throne room. Luna’s horn glowed with intense eldritch fire as the moon dropped below the western horizon at the precise moment that the sun crested in the east. Far below them, the six ponies sprang into action.

“You must know your enemy, Discord,” began Princess Luna.

“Highness, stray, defeated Sirens can no longer feed Leviathan, even if they did return to Equestria,” he retorted, comical features becoming suddenly serious. “There’s no possible way their shattered hearts could fully wake our icky, inky enemy.”

Luna frowned with frustration. “What if he had help? What if an elder servant of Vecna was involved?”

Discord’s eyes widened in fear. “Then we are all in grave danger. This seed must not sprout,” he said soberly. Returning to sarcastic form, he cheerily added, “I always hated the way that Leviathan would chain his servants. Not only would they rattle as they swam, but to have that sort of order imposed on you with no choice at all is such a bore.”

“Do you think you can help Sunset Shimmer salt this particular piece of ground?” asked Princess Luna.

“Yes, my dear Moonbutt, I will help her,” Discord retorted, earning an annoyed roll of Luna’s eyes. “After all, you know that my particular brand of chaos requires life. The dead have excellent entropy but are absolutely no fun. I couldn’t let that happen to any of you, especially after…” he trailed off and clamped his mouth shut.

“…you betrayed us yet again?” Luna frowned and softly intoned, “Fluttershy is right. This is your chance to prove yourself once and for all. But don’t think for a moment that I won’t serve you up to Vecna on a silver platter to save Equestria if you switch sides again.”

Discord gulped and Luna continued, nodding her head down towards the commanding figure of Twilight Sparkle, who was departing the throne room to write Sunset Shimmer in her library. “She must be protected from the awful truths of the multiverse for as long as possible. She is blissfully innocent of her true potential. Twilight Sparkle’s pure motives make her spirit and her magic more powerful each day. The love she shares equally with her friends is a beacon that will shine forth for eons if it comes to light fully. We dare not spoil that. Others must dirty their hooves, or claws and talons in your case, for her to let that radiance build.”

“Yes, Princess Luna. I understand. For the first time in a thousand years, I think I really do understand you,” the Spirit of Chaos answered in fearful, yet mysterious, admiration.

Luna pressed her hoof against the Spirit of Chaos’ snakelike chest. “I have one last thing, Discord. I won’t permit Twilight to open the portal again once you pass through. Your options will be Sunset Shimmer’s victory, centuries of terror hiding from four furious alicorns in a low-magic world or your defeat by one or both of the dark powers you face,” Luna warned. She then added a toothy grin and a frighteningly out-of-place wink, and said, “But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little bit of fun on the other side of the mirror.”

“Luna, all you needed to do is say so!” he replied with an irrepressible smile, his mood instantly improving. Discord snapped the fingers of his lion’s paw, causing a cloudburst of jelly beans to rain down upon Twilight’s throne room. Pinkie Pie’s squeal of joy brought a smile to both of their faces.

Over the next full day, a custom-made backpack in the castle library slowly filled with the items that Princess Twilight Sparkle intended to send to Sunset Shimmer. All had been carefully enchanted to limit the risk of their transformation into other items during the transit between worlds. The inventory included a half-dozen ancient books, ingots of star iron from the Crystal Empire, feathers from the wings of all four Princesses, silvery Aquastrian coral, and other rare spellcasting components.

“I think that’ll do it!” shouted Pinkie Pie, adding an enormous rock candy necklace dominated by yellow and red chunks of sugar.

“That’s everything on the list,” declared Twilight Sparkle, placing a stick carefully removed from the remnants of the Golden Oak Library into Discord’s pack. She used her magic telekinesis to carefully set two envelopes on her nearby writing desk.

A soft voice interrupted, “I have one last thing,” said Fluttershy, stepping forward. “Discord, Twilight told me a little bit about the clothes that are worn on the other side of the portal. Um, if it’s not too much trouble, I wanted you to have something you could wear so you, um…”

Discord leaned down to Fluttershy and asked kindly, “What is it, my dear friend?”

Fluttershy pressed a remarkable lapel pin into Discord’s paw. About two inches across, the enameled and bejeweled pin was an incredible design of an pink-and-green butterfly. It was a near-exact duplicate of her cutie mark.

Fluttershy finished her sentence with a whisper into the draconequus’ ear, so the others couldn’t hear, “…so you don’t forget about me.”

Discord hugged the pale yellow pegasus and said, “Thank you, Fluttershy. I will certainly treasure it.” Through his magic, the pin briefly came to life, settling on his shoulder. To the rest of the assembled group the draconequus announced grandly, “Well, there’s no time like the present. We can’t keep Sunset Shimmer waiting!”

As the red-and-gold light of dawn filtered through the windows of the castle, Twilight activated the portal. Discord, the Spirit of Chaos, shouldered his backpack and stepped through the mirror into a strange new world.

Author's Note

Welcome back to Equestria, everyone! I certainly hope that you understand why I felt the need to step back through the mirror to set the stage for the next act. With luck, we all know a little bit more about what Twilight and Luna are thinking. Of course, does anyone truly know what’s going through Discord’s mind at any time?

It simply felt right to stop the chapter here and publish. I’ll make my typical “two weeks until the next one” promise, but the next several scenes are already outlined. If real life continues as predicted, which is always a dicey proposition, the next chapter will be completed more quickly than my 14-day promise.

I humbly beseech you for your comments, thoughts, perspectives, and encouragement. Once again, thanks for your interest and support. We will rejoin our favorite Canterlot High School students in Chapter Nine!

Chapter Nine

“Slow down, Fluttershy!” shouted Sunset Shimmer as the van’s wheels squealed around a corner.

Both hands wrestling the steering wheel, she squeaked, “I’m sorry! Are you okay?”

Aria Blaze grumbled, “I’ll live. I didn’t need that shoulder anyway.” After being tossed from one end of the back seat to another, she massaged a bruised deltoid.

“All this excitement must be distracting me,” Fluttershy said, brushing a lock of pink hair out of her face while dodging a jaywalking pedestrian. While concentrating on the street and maintaining the van’s speed, Fluttershy involuntarily allowed a sliver of her tongue to escape the corner of her mouth.

Sunset cried, “No vehicular homicide today! I’m sure that wasn’t in my plans when the sun came up!” She braced herself against the dashboard as the vehicle went airborne over a set of train tracks. A series of loud bangs from the back of the van indicated that Sunset Shimmer’s belongings had shifted while in flight.

Canterlot was a sizable city and the aquarium was on the opposite side of town from Sunset Shimmer’s apartment. The three girls had been cooped up in the ancient van for about a half-hour, spending most of the ride in silence. Over the past five minutes, it became clear that the closer they got to the Sirens’ no-longer-hidden lair, the more erratic Fluttershy’s driving became.

Following Aria’s directions, they made their way around the aquarium. They passed two curious television news vans that were parked at the front entrance. Fluttershy crookedly parked the lime green van in a loading dock behind the huge building.

“Aria? Um, do you think she’s here?” Fluttershy asked, obviously inquiring about Adagio Dazzle.

Aria centered herself on the bench and squeezed her voluminous pigtails between the driver and passenger seats. She proposed a plan to Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer. “How’s this? I’ll go in first, and you both follow me a little way behind. One corner behind should be enough,” she said.

“I want my stuff back,” Sunset Shimmer said angrily, clenching her fists. “I have a score to settle with Adagio. I’m not going to let her hurt me again.”

“Um, I’m not so sure that a fight is going to solve anything right now, Sunny,” advised Fluttershy.

Sunset Shimmer’s been all over the map today. We’ve got to get her to calm down before she makes this worse, Aria thought. Aloud she added, “She’s not worth it. If we surprise her, we need to get her to slip up so we can learn something about what she has planned. If I see her alone, I’ll do the same. Adagio doesn’t know about my change of heart so she might tell me more if I ask.”

Sunset Shimmer continued to fidget with her leather jacket. She clenched and unclenched her fists several times. Noticing the nervous energy, Aria nearly climbed into the passenger seat to look Sunset in the eyes.

She said, “Sunset, we all need you to calm down. I need you to calm down. The most important thing is to get what’s left of my pendant, get out of here, and wait for Twilight’s friend to arrive.”

“Okay,” she grudgingly replied, crossing her arms.

The three girls exited the van, which Fluttershy carefully locked before following Sunset Shimmer and Aria to the loading dock’s entrance.

“Remember, stay at least one turn behind me. My hearing is better than yours and I can see well in the dark. Adagio can, too.”

Even in the middle of the day, the bowels of the building were eerily quiet. The lights were on in the shipping and receiving office, but there was no sign of any work being done. Aria opened a door to a narrow, damp maintenance corridor and disappeared inside. Fluttershy hid behind Sunset Shimmer, who watched the pigtails disappear into the dim, flickering passageway.

They leapfrogged one turn at a time, not encountering a single living soul. Aria Blaze’s body language changed substantially as she led the trio deeper into the aquarium. She crouched close to the ground, treaded silently despite her fashionable boots, felt the walls and floor with her hands, and frequently cocked her head in the direction of every faint noise she heard.

Sunset Shimmer could hear Fluttershy’s breathing, but was pleased that she had gathered some courage and walked on her own, without being draped all over the expensive leather jacket. The air was humid and smelled of salt. Stained concrete created illusions, and pumps clanked and whirred without warning. Her mind wandered, thinking of Aria’s former Master. The image of black tentacles infused with evil magic reaching for her formed in her imagination. Sunset’s heart began to race.

“Psst!” Aria hissed, returning Sunset’s mind to reality. The Siren’s purple eyes faintly glowed from a deep shadow thirty yards ahead. She motioned for the other two girls to come forward.

“I don’t think Adagio’s here,” she whispered to Fluttershy and Sunset. “Just to be safe, we’re taking the back way in. Hold my hand. There’s no light in this last part.”

Single file and gripping one another, they squeezed past machinery and thick pipes until suddenly they found themselves in a cozy circular room with a small camping lantern burning on top of a used kitchen table.

The Sirens’ lair was surprisingly well-appointed. It held an easy chair, two bedrolls, the kitchen table and chairs, a few books, many blankets, a camping stove, and plenty of non-perishable food and drink. Brightly colored, hand painted bed sheets hung on the walls. Each one depicted a shoreline, seascape or an underwater scene, presumably from places the three songstresses had visited in the past.

“I can guess who is responsible for the decorating,” said Sunset Shimmer, pinching the fabric of a sheet that showed majestic cliffs, crashing waves, and a sun just above the horizon. The painting was skillfully crafted, despite the relatively inexpensive fabric and paint used.

“I think you’re in for a surprise, Sunset. Adagio made all of these with a little bit of help from Sonata.,” Aria replied.

“That girl made something so beautiful?” asked Fluttershy. She looked closely at an underwater scene depicting an enormous building surrounded by a jagged fence. “They’re pretty, but this one gives me chills,” she continued.

“That’s the palace where Adagio grew up,” said Aria and then quickly shifted subjects. “Listen, if we’re going to stop her, you need to understand her a little bit. Adagio must always be in charge. The fact that your magic broke her confidence and took that sense of control from her probably explains a lot of what’s been going on. Adagio’s ruthless, she’s manipulative and she’s often horrible to me and Sonata. But all this,” she waved a purple-tinted hand, “always made me think she just wanted to get home and go back to the way things were before we were changed.”

Sunset Shimmer nodded, sneering at the homemade art and angrily spat, “Yeah, she’s homesick for all the slave labor and expendable flunkies you told me about. What I wonder now is what Adagio is willing to do to get herself home. Let’s take a closer look around.”

It didn’t take long to discover that Sonata’s meager possessions hadn’t been disturbed since she fled after Adagio’s assault on her. Aria walked over to her bedroll and began to gather her small pile. As Sunset Shimmer orbited the room with Fluttershy, they didn’t find any evidence of Adagio’s presence. There wasn’t a third bedroll, nor was there a separate stack of personal possessions.

Fluttershy continued to be skittish. She whispered to Sunset, “Slave labor? I don’t understand. This is really starting to scare me, Sunny.”

“I can’t tell you everything right now, but I learned that the Sirens come from a very different Equestria than I did. Twilight told me that things are much better now than they were when the Sirens first came here,” Sunset said, not able to calm her timid friend.

Zipping up her leather jacket as protection from the damp chill, Sunset Shimmer looked closely at the lantern glowing on the used kitchen table. Something seemed wrong about it.

“It’s sitting crookedly on the cloth,” Sunset said to herself.

She moved the lantern and removed the sheet that was being used as a makeshift tablecloth. Sunset shimmer growled softly in surprise and anger. Sitting on the table were two of the three disposable cell phones from her apartment, two small stacks of hundred-dollar bills and two notes from Adagio.

Sunset Shimmer called across the room, “Aria, could you please take a look at this?”

Stuffing some clothes in a rucksack, she replied, “I’ll be right there!”

The trio unfolded the first note and read together:

Aria,

Where are you? I need to find you. I know that farmgirl couldn’t have been too much trouble, and you’re far too smart to get caught. I’ve found some unexpected help, but I can’t write about it here. We might be able to get home after all, but you might need to get me out of what I’ve stumbled into. Use the phone, compliments of Sunset Shimmer, to contact me. My number is in it. I also relieved her conscience of some ill-gotten gains, which I’m sure you can put to good use. I worry that I need you to guard me again, just like before we crossed the sea. My new friend told me that the Master continues to wait for our return and I want to believe her.

Adagio

Frowning at the note, Aria said, “I don’t like this. Hold on. I need to know what she told Sonata.” Aria unfolded the second note and she, Sunset Shimmer and Fluttershy read it together.

Sonata,

All is forgiven. Come back to me and we’ll paint a new picture together. I’ll even let you try on my crown while we work. My number is in the phone and use Sunset Shimmer’s money to buy a gift for yourself. Don’t displease the Master.

Adagio

Aria refolded Sonata’s note and put it back in place. She added the note and the phone to her rucksack, then frowned and placed her hands on her hips.

“Something is very wrong,” said Aria Blaze, drumming her fingers. “The note to me is straightforward enough, but she has never said nor written anything like that to Sonata. It’s way too nice for Adagio.”

“She’s scared,” said Fluttershy, tapping the folded note on the table.

“What?” asked Sunset Shimmer and Aria Blaze in unison.

Brushing a lock of pink hair away from her turquoise eyes, Fluttershy explained, “I know all about being scared and wanting to run. I don’t think this new friend of hers is really a friend at all.”

“I can buy the scared part. The difference between the note she left me, which is what I’d expect from Adagio Dazzle, and these two notes is huge,” said Sunset. “Assuming you’re right, what frightened her?”

Aria was also confused and added, “If we were on the verge of being discovered, we’d pack up and move on to another place. Adagio would figure out where to go. The loss of our powers must have screwed her up worse than it did Sonata and me. Come to think of it, we’ve never spent this much time as individuals making our own decisions since becoming Sirens.”

“No wonder she seems frightened. I almost feel sorry for her,” said Fluttershy.

“I wouldn’t go that far, Flutters. I can’t feel pity for her right now, not after what she did in my apartment,” replied Sunset Shimmer.

“Let’s get out of here and capitalize on your hot beverage plan,” said Aria with a tiny smile at Fluttershy. “Cocoa for you and coffee for me.” She walked over to her bedroll to get a couple final items. Sunset Shimmer moved to follow her, eager to help and more eager to get out of the aquarium. Something still just felt off about this room, like a bad smell that lingers no matter how much cleaning is done. She kicked something soft and squishy.

“Oh, yuck! A rat!” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed, disgusted.

“Let me see,” said Fluttershy, rushing over to the shadowy corner. She was careful not to touch the rat but examined it thoroughly.

Sunset Shimmer itched all over. She thought, When was the last time I felt like this?

“It’s dead, and there are four more back in the dark corner,” said Fluttershy, standing up. “But, I can’t tell what killed them. It just feels so wrong.”

Wrong. Dark corner. Dead. The itching grew worse. Sunset Shimmer’s heart rate increased again, and she suddenly remembered. I felt something like this at the Fall Formal, but much stronger. My magic pulsed like a heartbeat or bolt of lightning. This is a flatline. Oh no! We have to run!

”Sweet Celestia! Dark magic. Death magic!” Sunset Shimmer whispered to herself, terror starting to overtake her as Aria finished her packing and approached.

Aria Blaze handed a small metal cigar box to Sunset Shimmer. A purple-tinted finger tapped the top. “Here you go. Make good use of it with Twilight’s friend. Remember, I want a weapon to defend us from whatever is happening. I won’t allow He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness to touch me ever again.”

Sunset Shimmer nodded, barely keeping her composure. She said, “Thanks, but we need to go right now. I’ll explain later. Is there a quicker way out of here?”

Confused, Aria said, “Yeah, of course, but what’s…”

“Fluttershy, let’s get out of here!” Sunset Shimmer called.

Aria’s faster route took them into through the aquarium exhibits. Ignoring Fluttershy’s pleas to watch the fish and marine mammals play, Sunset Shimmer urged Aria to make a beeline for the van. But their path was blocked by a small press conference in the aquarium’s atrium. As they reversed course, they heard a disturbing exchange between the facility’s director and the reporters:

“...we will thoroughly investigate what happened here and make sure that it’s not a mechanical problem or result of human error,” said an authoritative voice near one of the exhibits.

“How many did you lose, again?” came a loud question.

“This morning, we found a nurse shark that was already sick and about two dozen of our more exotic tropical fish floating belly up in their tanks. As I’ve said before, the only commonality between the accidents is that the tanks are close to one another, and all the dead fish had fragile constitutions for one reason or another.”

The sound of repetitive questions slowly faded. Sunset Shimmer was now jogging through the exhibits in an effort to escape the aquarium.

“Slow down, Sunset!” huffed Aria in exasperation from beneath the heavy rucksack, with Fluttershy close behind. “What’s wrong with you? You’re going the wrong way!”

“I’ll tell you in the van,” answered the former unicorn.

Three minutes later, the rucksack had been added to the stack of stuff piled on the shag carpeting in the back of the ancient vehicle. They sped away, heading towards Fluttershy’s home.

Aria was angry, her purple eyes flashing and teeth clenched. She demanded, “Okay, Sunset Shimmer, will you finally tell me what in Tartarus that was all about, now?”

“Alright! Someone, somepony, or something used powerful dark magic recently in your little room!” Motioning to Fluttershy, who was trying to concentrate on her driving, Sunset Shimmer continued. “She’s seen me use dark enchantments. I know more than I should about hypnotism, charming and control spells. What I felt was necromancy. Death magic.”

“Eeeep!” Fluttershy squeaked as the van skidded to a stop in the middle of a city block.

Flipping her purple and teal pigtails out of her face and making sure she was all right after the sudden halt, Aria gave a low whistle and finally replied, “No wonder you wanted us to get out of there.”

“No wonder Adagio is scared! I’m t-t-terrified!” stammered Fluttershy, hands tightly gripping the steering wheel. Horns began to sound behind the van.

“Just drive, Fluttershy,” directed Sunset Shimmer. The van continued its trip. “Evil magic must have killed those rats and those fish. But, considering what happened at the Battle of the Bands, that doesn’t seem like something Adagio could do, even before the pendants broke.”

“No, that’s not our speed,” replied Aria, shaking her head. “We fed off of negative emotions, which are awfully tough to come by from anything that’s’ not alive. What did Adagio get herself into? What found her?”

Sunset Shimmer gulped and turned backwards toward Aria. She answered, “I don’t know, Aria, but I sure hope that the others are keeping Sonata close to them.”

As the van clattered its way across Canterlot, the wind grew in intensity, and the sun struggled to shed its light through iron-gray clouds.

“You’re so nice and warm, Big Macintosh!” squealed Sonata Dusk as she squeezed next to the pickup truck’s driver, seeking shelter from the chilling breeze outside.

The temperature had dropped throughout the day, and Sonata’s light sweater, while it had seemed like enough clothing that morning, was no longer adequate.

Apple Bloom’s bow smashed itself into Sonata’s blue-hued nose. “I am not sitting on your lap, Applejack!” she complained, as the three Apples and one Siren packed themselves into the single bench seat of the family pickup truck.

Sonata twirled a blue lock of hair around her finger. She looked at Big Macintosh with a broad smile and said, “Thank you so much for coming to get us. It’s soooo cooold out there!”

“You’re welcome,” answered the farmer simply as he popped the truck into gear and Applejack fastened her seatbelt.

“Sonata’s going to help us with some of the farm chores and stay with us again tonight!” declared Applejack cheerfully. “You don’t mind, do you?”

“Nope,” came Big Mac’s brief reply.

Apple Bloom’s squeaky voice broke in. “Remember, Granny Smith had to make a trip to Appleoosa for the next few days to help Braeburn negotiate prices for the next harvest!”

“Well, then I’ll have to cook and Sonata will have to work,” decided Applejack. “You’ll have to do what my brother tells you to. Are you okay with that, Sonata?”

Lilac eyes shining brightly, Sonata smiled and answered, “Oh yeah! I’m so happy that I get to spend time with you all again! Getting a little dirty is no problem at all.”

During the drive, the farming family pleasantly talked about the weather, the orchard, and school. They are all so happy, Sonata thought. None of them are afraid of anything. I want them to be a part of my plan so much. Others will do this hard work for them, I’ll see to that.

Sonata shifted a couple more inches to her left, laying all of her leg against Big Macintosh as he drove. With four people sharing the front bench, it was a tight squeeze. Sonata then crossed her legs, forcing the young man to brush his forearm against her knee as he worked the truck’s manual transmission. The Siren suppressed a smile as she felt the strong muscles in his leg tighten nervously as he tried to give her more room on the seat. Such a gentleman, Sonata thought deviously. I’ll have to keep that in mind.

“Sonata, what’s this I heard about you acting in class? Where did you learn to do that? If Sweetie Belle finds out, you’ll find yourself on their homemade stage faster than you can say ‘curtain call’! Flash Sentry couldn’t stop talking about you in Cranky’s class,” said Applejack, unknowingly coming to her brother’s rescue.

Not wanting to talk about her past, Sonata answered a question with a question. “Homemade stage? What do you mean?”

Apple Bloom jumped in, enthusiastically answering, “Us Crusaders, that’s me, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, built a clubhouse out in the woods near Sweet Apple Acres with some stuff that Big Mac let us have from the farm. Last fall, Sweetie Belle wrote a play, so we built a little stage with help from Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Um, it didn’t go so well, but the stage is great! We’ll try again once it warms up!”

Apple Bloom tuned the radio to a country station, and the quartet sang the rest of the way to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack expressed surprise at how strong Sonata’s singing voice had become since the Battle of the Bands. Sonata complimented Big Mac’s singing, lightly patting his leg as they turned towards the farmhouse.

Upstairs in her bedroom, Applejack tossed Sonata a pair of working blue jeans and a long-sleeved flannel shirt. She said, “I know you spent last night at Rarity’s, so I’d expect her to saddle you with clothes. But, take these because your fancy new duds would get ruined out in the barn.” Shaking her head, and eyeing the blue-skinned girl up and down with a smile, she set a thick leather belt on the bed, adding, “Girl, I need to feed you better than what you’ve been getting. My pants are going to fall right off of you.”

Applejack left the room, shutting the door behind her. Sonata immediately heard her yelling at Apple Bloom, ordering her to finish her homework. Twisting her long blue hair into a bun, she quickly changed into the work clothes and slipped into a pair of rubber boots. Noisily clomping downstairs, Sonata did a double take when she saw Applejack in the kitchen, without her hat and wearing an apron. The farmgirl was furiously mixing ingredients in a massive bowl on the table. Something resonated from deep in her memory:

Coral Symphony furiously mixed the family’s dinner on the kitchen table and called to her daughter, “Sonata, tell your brother to finish his schoolwork and get ready for dinner!”

“Yes, Mama,” replied Sonata, swimming behind the partition where her twin brother’s bed and belongings were placed. She called out, breaking his studious concentration, “Coral Aegis! It’s time for dinner!”

The chilly, windy spring afternoon jolted Sonata Dusk to the present as she made her way over to the barn housing the farm’s vehicles and specialized equipment. She looked down at herself, frowning, and undid the second button on the borrowed flannel shirt, exposing a little more blue-tinted skin. As Sonata entered the barn, her eyes were drawn to Big Macintosh giving orders to two older farmhands. His forehead was covered with sweat, and his work shirt was rolled above his elbows, exposing his powerful forearms. The two men nodded respectfully to the young farmer as he sent them on their way with few words. Sonata’s pulse quickened and her cheeks flushed as Big Macintosh approached with a smile.

Running a hand through his reddish-brown hair, he said, “I reckon it’ll storm later, so I sent the hands home early. We’ll need to pick up the slack. Do you remember what AJ showed you about mucking out the livestock barn?”

“Eeyup,” replied Sonata, returning the smile.

Big Macintosh raised his eyebrows, obviously trying to decide whether the girl was mocking him or not. He followed up with another question. “Do you think you can handle feeding and watering the animals, too?”

The girl nodded her head, blue-streaked bun bobbing along, and declared, “I sure will! For you, I’ll get it done way before dinner. Your sister taught me well.”

“Good. I’ll handle this building, then. Let’s get to it,” he replied simply.

Sonata, without Applejack’s watching eyes and her earlier injuries, didn’t need to or want to conceal the physical gifts that came with her transformation into a Siren. While cleaning the barn and caring for the livestock was still strenuous work, she was able to work without any sort of break. Today, Sonata shouldered huge hay bales that she and Applejack had carried together on Monday.

The physical labor felt good to Sonata and reminded her of the chores she did around her tiny house when she was a filly. She wiped the sweat off of her brow with a flannel sleeve and surveyed the barn. The manure and other animal waste had been removed. All of the animals had been fed and watered and were eagerly enjoying their dinner. The tools were clean and properly stowed, and the barn’s central aisle between the stalls was freshly swept.

“Now, for the next step,” Sonata said to herself. She undid the bun, freeing her blue-streaked hair, and arranged it in front of her shoulders in a poor imitation of Cheerilee’s hairstyle. As she walked towards the vehicle barn, Sonata stopped and gasped, hearing the deep voice she had been dreaming about since Sweetie Belle’s revelation last night. She hid out of sight near the open barn door, her right hand going to her throat, searching for a pendant that was no longer there. Big Macintosh was loudly singing a sad song of separation as he finished his work, his strong baritone echoing from the rafters:

I'm going across the deep blue sea
In this country tell me
I'm all alone so sad and blue
My every thought is just for you

In these long years that I spent here
I only wish that you were here
To the dizzy fog and a mist of rain
I can see you strolling right down the lane

Someday darling I will return
Then our hearts will no longer yearn
Things will be just like before
Just you and I forever more

Sonata couldn’t contain herself any more. The combination of Big Macintosh’s singing and the cool air on her sweaty skin had raised goosebumps and produced chills that had little to do with the weather. She strode into the barn as soon as the final note trailed off into the early evening.

“That was amazing! Big Mac, I never knew you could sing so well!”

The young man blushed in embarrassment, sheepishly smiling and scratching the back of his head. He could only muster a polite reply. “Thanks, Sonata. That’s mighty kind of you to say so.”

Sonata Dusk continued to close the distance between the two of them. She asked innocently, “What’s that song about? I like songs about the sea.”

“Well, it’s tough to explain.”

Winking at Big Macintosh, Sonata placed a hand on her hip and challenged him. “Try me.”

“Okay. This song is sort of like a... what did she call it? A role reversal,” said Big Mac, struggling to find the correct words. “The girl I liked left for a long time, so she’s the one at sea. She’s really the one singing. I stayed here.”

Moving another step closer and meeting the young man’s eyes, Sonata asked, “So what happened to the two of you?”

Eyes widening, the farmer answered too quickly, “Um, she’s my girlfriend now. You probably know her. It’s Cheerliee, the CHS librarian.”

Extending her lower lip in a pretty pout, Sonata Dusk said, “It’s a pity she didn’t notice you right away. It’s terrible to have such strong feelings for someone and not have her accept you.”

The ringing of the wrought-iron triangle rescued Big Macintosh from having to respond. Applejack, looking almost matronly in the apron, yelled from the porch, “Dinner in five, you two! Get in here and wash up!”

Without a word, the farmer obeyed his younger sister and walked briskly to the house. Sonata grinned to herself and admired Big Mac’s stride as he brushed past her. To his credit, he politely held the front door open for her.

As Sonata walked into the house, she was blasted with pleasant sensations. The smell of freshly baked bread, a homemade apple pie and a macaroni and cheese casserole filled her nose. Apple Bloom and Applejack’s happy laughter tickled her ears. The warmth of a fire in the living room’s hearth was an unexpected delight, and her eyes were drawn to Big Macintosh washing the oil and grime from his hands in the deep kitchen sink. The whole thing felt like home to her. It wasn’t the home she remembered, nor was it any home she’d shared with Adagio and Aria, but Sonata took delight in the home she had always wanted.

After Sonata cleaned up, the group of four sat in the kitchen together. Sitting at the head of the table, Big Mac said a simple blessing over the dinner Applejack had prepared, and they dug in with all the enthusiasm that the group of young people could muster. The conversation consisted of back-and-forth between the three girls, with an occasional question or comment from a smiling Big Macintosh. Over huge slices of apple pie, with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, Sonata and the Apples enjoyed each other’s company as the sun set outside.

“…so then Rainbow Dash tells him, ‘I think you’re moving a little fast, considering she doesn’t even know your name, rookie’! What is it with all these new students who try to ask me and my friends out on their first day of school at CHS?” said Applejack. The whole table exploded with laughter.

Wiping away a tear of mirth, Big Macintosh announced, “I think that does it. I reckon none of us can do better than that! AJ, I’ll give you a hand with the dishes.”

“Oooh, Sonata, come with me, I have something that I want to show you!” blurted Apple Bloom. She grabbed Sonata Dusk’s hand and pulled her towards the family room.

The fire continued to burn in the brick fireplace. Apple Bloom put another log on top of the coals, went to the bookshelf and pulled out a thick photo album. She sat on the sofa and patted the cushion next to her. “Sonata, I want to show you some pictures. Granny does this all the time, but with you here, I get a chance to pick for once,” she said excitedly.

“What are you going to show me?” Sonata asked. She smiled pleasantly and sat next to the younger girl.

“My family, of course!” Apple Bloom replied. She opened the book and set half of it on Sonata Dusk’s lap.

Sonata soaked in the warmth of the fire and enjoyed the silly second-hand stories that Apple Bloom told about Granny Smith’s youth. While she had lived nearly as score of lifetimes, Sonata was still surprised to learn that the full-time farmer and part-time lunch lady was once a champion high diver.

The sky outside turned to night. The sounds of water running and cookware clanging started to give way to the silence of dish towels at work. Apple Bloom turned a page in the album and her torrent of narration came to a sudden stop.

“What’s wrong, little one?” asked Sonata, patting the younger girl’s hand.

The book on her lap was opened to a full-page picture of two proud parents holding a newborn on the porch swing where Apple Bloom and Sonata had sat just two nights ago. The mother, with scarlet hair, a pretty freckled face and green eyes, looked adoringly at the baby in her arms. The baby’s face was barely visible because it was blocked by an enormous red bow. The father, a strong, handsome man with bright blonde hair and hazel eyes, wrapped his powerful arms around both of them and smiled at the camera.

“That’s my Ma and Pa,” said Apple Bloom sadly. “They’re up in heaven, now.”

Sonata began to tear up after hearing the teenager’s childlike choice of words. All she could ask was, “What happened, Apple Bloom?”

“Ten years ago, they were in a head-on car accident. I cried and cried until I didn’t have any tears left. All of us did,” she answered. “Granny came back from Appleoosa and raised us after they were gone. She used all of these photo albums to try to tell us that Ma and Pa’s story isn’t done yet. Mac, AJ and I are still writing it.”

Sonata exclaimed, “That’s so terrible! I don’t know what to say.”

She remembered her mother’s voice: “Just don’t forget about us, Sonata, and don’t be afraid. You are my daughter and I will always love you and be proud of you.”

Apple Bloom looked at the older girl with her hazel eyes and asked hesitantly, “Sonata, can I tell you the worst part?”

“Of course, Apple Bloom,” she replied.

“The accident killed Scootaloo’s parents, too. We met at the funeral and have been friends ever since. She didn’t have any other kin, so she’s had a rough time. Scoots blames herself because she got out of the house and her parents were driving all over trying to find her. I’ve tried to be strong for her, because she feels guilty every single day, but it’s just so awful sometimes.”

Apple Bloom began to cry and curled up against Sonata. Applejack, her trademark hat back in place, poked her head into the living room. Sonata put a finger to her lips, and then pointed at the photo album. Applejack wiped a tear of her own away, nodded and moved away.

After the tears subsided, Sonata said, “Let me tell you a secret, Apple Bloom. I lost my parents a long time ago, but I still think of them, too. But, I have a question for you. Since your parents left you so suddenly, are you ever afraid of being alone?”

“Sure! But AJ, Big Mac, Sweetie, and Scoots do a great job of making it go away. I can be brave for them, because they’re all depending on me, and we all depend on each other,” responded Apple Bloom, her confidence returning. A low rumble of thunder came from outside.

“You’d better get upstairs, little one. Get comfortable before this storm hits,” directed Sonata Dusk.

“Okay, Sonata. Thanks for a great night. Oh, one more thing,” she said. Stretching herself as tall as she could, Apple Bloom poked a finger into Sonata’s shoulder and added, “I see the way you’re looking at my brother. I don’t want you getting all heartbroken. You need to know that he’s taken.”

“Thanks for telling me, Apple Bloom,” she replied. Internally, she thought: Of course she’d look out for her big brother. Children see things their elders don’t.

Apple Bloom gave Sonata another hug and departed. Sonata realized that it had become late and that she was a little sleepy herself. Before she could go upstairs, she noticed the door to the basement cracked open. She heard the sounds of an acoustic guitar playing and the unmistakable deep voice of Big Macintosh singing.

Beyond the night dear as I lay sleeping
I dreamed I held you in my arms
But when I woke, dear, I was mistaken
And I hung my head and I cried

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are gray
You'll never know dear how much I love you
Please don't take my sunshine away

Sonata smiled sweetly, listening attentively. Another rumble of thunder penetrated the walls of the farmhouse. Sonata thought, I know this one from that mining town about seventy years ago!

She rebuttoned the flannel shirt and said to herself, “I'll make him forget Cheerilee and help me dethrone Adagio, but not tonight. They’ll all thank me when I’m in charge, but I don’t want to mess up what just happened.” Sonata started down the stairs and sang in a strong, clear soprano:

I'll always love you and make you happy
If you will only say the same
But if you leave me and love another
You'll regret it all someday

Big Macintosh, stunned at Sonata’s appearance and stage presence, joined in during the chorus:

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are gray
You'll never know dear how much I love you
Please don't take my sunshine away

The two sang happy songs together for a little while. The farmer couldn't take his eyes off of Sonata, barely blinking each time she carried the tune. Sonata kept her distance and simply enjoyed the pleasure of making music with Big Macintosh. Despite the fun, a huge yawn soon escaped Sonata’s blue tinted lips.

She smiled at Big Macintosh and said, “I’m sorry, but I need to get some sleep. Thank you for everything. This was a perfect evening. Good night, Big Mac.” She patted him affectionately on the shoulder and walked up the stairs. The thunderstorm was now raging, with horizontal rain and gusty winds buffeting the house.

Not wanting to disturb Applejack, Sonata threw another log on the fire and curled up under a quilt on the family room sofa. The light of the flames and the shadows they cast danced over the numerous photographs of the Apple family. Sleep was about to claim the former Siren, until she heard heavy footfalls crossing the room.

Barely cracking an eyelid, she could make out the silhouette of Big Macintosh in the entrance. Sonata heard him murmur to himself, “Cheerilee, I’m just making sure she sleeps all right. Nothing more.”

Sonata feigned sleep as the young man gently rearranged the quilt over her. She expected him to go, but suddenly felt his breath on her cheek.

Big Macintosh leaned down and gave the blue-tinted cheek a kiss, just like he had done to Apple Bloom thousands of times before. “Good night, Sonata. I hope we can sing again soon,” he whispered.

Sonata was reconsidering her decision to stay well behaved that evening. Preparing to throw off the quilt and give chase, she was interrupted by loud banging and shouting at the front door.

“Quit your hollering, I’m coming!” boomed Big Mac at the same time Applejack rushed downstairs.

The door opened, revealing an angry, soaked and embarrassed Rainbow Dash.

“Awesome! A welcoming committee!” she said sarcastically. “Are you going to let me in or do I have to sleep on the porch swing? The power just went out at my place.”

“Come on in, sugarcube. Looks like we have a full house tonight,” said Applejack invitingly.

Neither Applejack nor Rainbow Dash noticed Big Macintosh and Sonata Dusk looking nervously at one another, with Sonata’s hand touching her right cheek.

Adagio Dazzle pushed the empty plate away and said, “What a delicious meal, Ms. Raven. Thank you very much!”

“Just ‘Raven’ is fine, Your Highness. May I call you Adagio?” replied the banshee respectfully.

Flattered by Raven’s use of the honorific after all these centuries, Adagio cordially answered, “Of course. Given your unusual nature, how did you learn to cook so well?”

“I had plenty of time on my hands and no way to satisfy my magical hunger. I think you can sympathize with that fact now that your pendant has been shattered,” said Raven matter-of-factly. She added, “Providing good hospitality to such an honored guest is merely a bonus.”

After Raven revealed herself to Adagio at the aquarium last night, they returned to a large luxury apartment located in the center of Canterlot. The dwelling’s size combined with its impressive furniture and eclectic art collection put it far out of reach of a mere high school teacher’s salary. Adagio surmised that Raven, like Sunset Shimmer before her reformation, must have applied her unique talents and encyclopedic knowledge to boost her disposable income. Adagio slept in until mid-afternoon, lounging in an obscenely comfortable guest bedroom.

Adagio had stepped out to complete some errands after waking. She, ironically, purchased some clothing at the Carousel Boutique while slipping a nondescript envelope into the owner’s mailbox. Fortunately, the proprietor, Elegant Ensemble, didn’t recognize Adagio and provided several outstanding recommendations to modernize her dwindling wardrobe. Since returning early in the evening, Raven had catered to Adagio Dazzle’s every need. But there was an edge to their interaction. The excessive formality and practiced friendliness reminded her of her mother’s court. Adagio knew that the banshee was developing an opinion of her capabilities, strengths and weaknesses.

Adagio could almost hear her mother’s commanding voice.

Daughter, watch closely. She will expose her weakness and then use what you learn to bring her strengths to serve me and the Empire. We must remain strong or the other families and other sea creatures will destroy us.

Raven returned from the kitchen with two cups of tea. Setting them on a large glass coffee table, she motioned for Adagio to take a seat in a throne-like black leather recliner. Shrieking Raven took a seat across from her, and Adagio met the woman’s flat black eyes. The Siren clasped her hands to keep her fingers from shaking.

“Now, Adagio, we will discuss how you will take your rightful place as Queen of the reborn Aquastrian Empire,” declared Raven. She took a sip of her tea, and then rose to retrieve an exquisite marble chessboard. She set the board on the coffee table.

“This, my dear, is you,” she said, holding up a black rook. “The king is your Master.” The undead creature set the two pieces on the board two squares away from one another. “You were once connected, but something has severed that connection. I think we both know what is responsible for that,” said Raven.

Adagio sipped her tea. It was delicious, with an exotic cinnamon taste. She replied, smiling conspiratorially, “The magic conjured by the Rainbooms, of course.”

Raven smiled, and asked, “We will just have to fix that, won’t we?”

“How?”

Placing three white pawns next to the black rook representing Adagio, the banshee continued. “Since you have already been changed by Leviathan, you will have to provide your Master something to quench his thirst and wake him from his long slumber. You will have to give him tribute in the fashion that your mother, your grandmother, and a score of other mermare queens have done in the past. He doesn’t have the vitality to transform them after such a long hibernation, but by consuming three young females, he will immediately regain much of his former power.”

“Of course!” exclaimed Adagio Dazzle.

“Fortunately, for you, I know of a place that is ideally suited for this ritual and would like to suggest three candidates that would re-establish your bond to your Master and cause you to be crowned as Queen at last!” Raven finished grandly.

Suspicious, Adagio raised an eyebrow and asked, “What do you have to do with any of this?” She sipped her tea again.

Raven placed a black bishop on the board to the side of the pawns, the rook and the king. She mysteriously replied, “I will help your Master take notice of the offering before him and rouse him from his dreamless sleep. My Master will be able to nudge him, as one brother waking another.”

Something is wrong about all of this, thought Adagio. I wish Aria and Sonata were here to talk with her to give me time to watch and plan. Aloud, she said, “I would be grateful for your help. What do you get from all this?”

The pale woman gave a throaty laugh. “I provide you a way to get home and to remove the interlopers from Nautilus Hall. Seeing you in league with your Master and crowned as Queen is a reward in itself. But, who would you make war upon once you restore the Empire?”

“Celestia,” Adagio hissed.

“So, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. With your taking bold initiative to disgrace Sunset Shimmer and demoralize her friends, my Master need not be wary of the power of Harmony. He would have free reign to spread his magic in this world. You have your Empire. I will have mine.”

Adagio was finding it hard to concentrate. What’s wrong with me? I’m practically sinking into this chair. She said diplomatically, “You offer me a mighty gift, and we both desire the downfall of the Sun Princess. It’s something I will certainly consider. Would you tell me who you believe these sacrifices to be?”

Raven stood, and counted each name on her fingers, “Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Three girls of the proper age who are as close, maybe even closer, than sisters. They will fuel my magic.”

Isn’t it our magic? Adagio weakly thought, eyelids drooping.

“Your Highness, you need your rest. Let me show you to your room,” Raven said, cruelly smirking at Adagio Dazzle’s nearly-unconscious form. She helped the Siren to her feet and laid her in the guest bed once again.

Adagio mumbled, “Wait! I have more questions!”

“There will be time for that later, my dear. I have to keep you safe. You can’t go running off when your victory is so close,” replied the banshee.

Adagio furiously thought, A sleeping potion! How could I have been so stupid?

The last sound Adagio heard before dreamless sleep claimed her was the loud click of the bedroom door’s deadbolt. She was securely locked in her room.

Human disguise fading from view, Shrieking Raven returned to the chessboard. Her skeletal fingers placed a black knight next to the black bishop.

With a voice like dry leaves upon the wind, she said remorsefully, “It’s a pity that I will have to repeat that conversation. The draught is effective, but causes a loss of memory. Leviathan’s power will belong to Vecna, and I will use it to snuff the life from this world. Then, with Harmony defeated, I will breach the portal and my Master will take his revenge!”

The banshee toppled the white pawns, the black rook, and the black king. She replaced the black bishop, representing herself, with the black queen. She surveyed the chess board and said, “I hope you will enjoy your short reign, Queen Adagio Dazzle. You will suffer an eternity of enslavement for it!”

Outside, lightning flashed and thunder boomed as the thunderstorm struck Canterlot.

*****

Lyrics to “Across the Blue Sea” and “You Are My Sunshine” found on .

Author's Note

Welcome back, with a Siren-heavy chapter! Before you get grumpy, I know we all want Discord to join the fray, but Sunset Shimmer has a lot to do before the next sunrise. Our chaotic, hilarious new character will step through to the CHS side of the portal soon enough. Be patient, please! I’m writing as fast as I can!

While I always hope to see your comments, if you get an opportunity, please thank IsabellaAmoreSirenix for taking the time (while engaged in National Novel Writing Month, no less) to edit my draft and get it ready for you to enjoy.

For those of you in the United States, I wish you a safe and pleasant Thanksgiving holiday. Of course, a little author nostalgia found its way into the Apple Family’s living room. Enjoy reunions with friends and family, take pleasure in eating too much and I ask you to think about those that may be far from those they love this Thursday.

Chapter Ten

“Pinkie Pie is going to meet us at my house, Sunny, um, if that’s OK with you. She’s said that her Pinkie Sense warned her that the roof at Sugarcube Corner is going to leak tonight,” said Fluttershy, glancing at the incoming text on her phone and handing it to Sunset Shimmer so she could concentrate on her driving.

“It’s pretty nasty out there. I don’t blame her,” added Aria Blaze from the back seat. Raising a suspicious purple eyebrow, she added, “What’s this ‘Pinkie Sense’?”

Sunset Shimmer interrupted before Fluttershy could answer. Holding up a calming hand, she said sympathetically, “Aria, I have learned to just accept certain things on faith. Here’s what I can tell you about Pinkie that you just need to get over before you hurt your brain. Believe me, I know.” Sunset began counting on her golden-tinted fingers. “First, she can eat a mountain of sweets every day and never gain a pound. Second, she can defy the laws of physics and anatomy pretty much at will. And, third, this Pinkie Sense of hers allows her to sense future danger and figure out magical stuff.”

“She seems fun and full of energy, but I didn’t have her pegged as someone who has the mind for magic,” replied Aria skeptically.

Fluttershy glanced behind her right shoulder, adding, “Oh, you’d be surprised, Aria! She and Sunny were the first ones to figure out that you, Adagio and Sonata were very different from the other girls at school. Um, no offense.”

Aria grumbled, “None taken.” With a roll of her eyes, she turned to the former unicorn and added, “Sunset Shimmer, I’m starting to realize what a pain in the flank it is to have a past.”

“My past seems to have collided with my present, thanks to Adagio. But, it will be good to talk to Pinkie Pie. I’m worried to tell her about how Adagio has me over a barrel because of the things I’ve done, but I hope she’ll understand or at least forgive me. To be honest, I’m scared about how Applejack and especially Rarity will react,” she said, reaching into her jacket to touch the note and photographs that the Siren leader had left in the ransacked apartment. As she did, the metal cigar box holding the shards of Aria Blaze’s Siren pendant rattled in the jacket’s other pocket. Sunset Shimmer smiled weakly and hopefully at both Fluttershy and Aria.

Fluttershy made a turn down a long driveway, and said, “I think what we saw at the aquarium makes it even more important that we all stay strong as friends. I’ll help you tell the others if I can.”

“Thanks, Fluttershy, for everything,” replied Sunset Shimmer, “I know this has been a lot for you to deal with today.”

Sunset Shimmer didn’t come to Fluttershy’s house frequently, but she was always impressed at how comfortable and cozy the cottage was. For a girl that often preferred the company of animals to people, Fluttershy’s dwelling was unusually inviting. Built around a towering oak tree, the cottage’s open floorplan allowed animals of all shapes and sizes to roam freely. Most of the back wall was actually the tree’s trunk. Two of the three doors inside Fluttershy’s home were in the loft, which led to the bedroom and bathroom. The final door led to a basement well-stocked with provisions for both people and animals, and doubled as the examination room for veterinary care.

Near the kitchen sat a wood-burning stove, its chimney carefully routed away from the boughs of the tree. Sunset Shimmer had spent several winter afternoons with Rainbow Dash improving the roof, making sure that wind, water and uninvited animal guests didn’t sneak down the tree trunk into the cottage. The great room held numerous cages, perches and boxes, yet didn’t feel cluttered.

Fluttershy opened the front door and announced, “I’m hoooooome!” She was immediately hugged, chirped at, brushed against and affectionately greeted by a collection of animals ranging from an-out-of-place toucan to a furry marmot. Angel Bunny, Fluttershy’s favorite animal, was lounging in his open cage near the wood-burning stove, and apparently annoyed. His pink eyes shrewdly appraised Aria Blaze and Sunset Shimmer while his snow-white fur twitched in aggravation. Since the belongings they carried indicated a long stay, he sniffed and turned his back on the three humans, settling into a corner of his cage.

The source of Angel’s aggravation zoomed forward, embracing Aria with such force that she couldn’t keep her footing with the heavy rucksack on her back.

“You made it!!!” shrieked Pinkie Pie as the two girls toppled to the ground. “And, Fluttershy told me that I get to throw a You’re Not Evil Anymore Party for you, too!” Her blue eyes twinkled with excitement less than an inch from Aria’s purple irises.

Swatting the poofy pink curls out of her face, Aria frowned and slipped out of the rucksack’s shoulder straps. She clenched her teeth and looked up at Sunset Shimmer and Fluttershy, her wide-eyed expression imploring them to say something, anything.

The former unicorn ran a hand through her red-and-gold hair and chuckled. “You’re on your own, Aria. Pinkie’s sort of a force of nature when it comes to these things.”

Pinkie Pie had barely breathed since colliding with Aria. She was unusually still, waiting for instructions from the imminent party’s guest of honor. With a flourish of exasperation, Aria requested, “Could I please get a cup of coffee?”

“Of course!” shouted Pinkie Pie, scattering Aria, animals and the contents of the cupboards in her efforts to please the Siren. She continued spewing forth an impossibly rapid torrent of words. “So do you want cream and sugar, or the Las Pegasus blend, or whipped cream, or ice cream, or cinnamon, or chocolate covered marshmallows…”

As Pinkie Pie systematically demolished the kitchen, Fluttershy helped Aria to her feet. She announced to the assembled menagerie, “Alright everyone, we have a bit of an emergency to take care of. All three of my friends are going to be staying here. That means that there won’t be room for all of you inside the house.”

Fluttershy cupped a hand to her ear, hearing the animals chitter, groan and growl. Aria watched in amazement as the shy girl intuitively understood the message and replied in a calm, courteous tone. Sunset, with a bemused smile, stepped outside to retrieve more of her belongings.

She continued patiently, “Yes, I understand that it’s going to storm later, but that’s why Rainbow Dash helped me build all the houses up in the tree and outside on the ground. Please understand that we don’t have nice, soft fur like you do or feathers to keep the water off of us.”

The animals grudgingly left the cottage’s great room, giving the friends more room to get comfortable. Angel Bunny refused to move an inch towards the door, and doubled down on his sullen behavior by letting loose a stinky blast of rabbit flatulence in protest.

Aria, still bewildered by Fluttershy’s talents with the animals and possibly concussed from Pinkie Pie’s greeting, set her rucksack next to a sofa and took a seat. She tiredly sank into the cushions at the same moment Pinkie Pie dashed from the kitchen with a towering, steaming mug of coffee.

“Since you never answered me, I had you figured for a cream-and-sugar girl! But, don’t forget my own personal, special ingredient,” Pinkie Pie handed the mug to Aria, while winking an expressive blue eye.

The purple-haired Siren noticed about a dozen pink, heart-shaped marshmallows floating in the badly needed dose of caffeine. She cautiously took a sip.

Her dour face lit up with a bright smile. “Mmmm, strawberries!” exclaimed Aria Blaze.

“See! Told you! But go easy on those marshmallows. I can’t be held responsible for what might happen. I haven’t been allowed back into the Pint Noir since the accident,” Pinkie warned mysteriously.

Sunset Shimmer returned with the rest of her belongings and asked Fluttershy, “Would you mind if I put my jewelry kit downstairs? Your exam room would make a great spot to work tonight.”

“Please do, Sunny! There are no sick animals right now, so you can feel free to spread out. I just want you to be comfortable,” Fluttershy replied, settling in with the cup of hot cocoa she had been craving all day and spreading a thick afghan over her legs. The wind whistled through the branches of the oak above them.

Sunset Shimmer took her time in the basement. She set her bags on the examination table that dominated the room. It was the first time Sunset had been by herself all day, and the stress of Adagio’s theft, the cruel note, bitter reminders of her ruthless past and the terror of the aquarium caught up to her at last. The former unicorn sank to the floor in a corner of the exam room and let loose her anger, sadness, guilt and fears in a flood of tears that lasted for several minutes and then suddenly stopped.

“Some tough girl I am,” she said to the empty room and began unpacking her belongings. As she reached the bottom of the green canvas seabag that contained her jeweler’s kit, Sunset Shimmer discovered her Equestrian journal. As she pulled it from the bag, the tome briefly glowed red and buzzed faintly.

“Twilight sent me another message!” Sunset cried excitedly. She laid the book atop the carefully organized box that held the tools, wax, clay, precious metals and gemstones that would soon be put to use and read:

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

All of us here at the castle are pitching in to make sure that you have the knowledge, tools and items you most need to help you succeed. I regret that I didn’t explain myself as well as I should have in my previous message. Princess Luna gave me an awful lot to think about, and what she said to me is still weighing on my mind. But, you don’t need to concern yourself with that right now.

First, my friends and the castle staff (and yes, that feels very strange for me to write, let alone see it in action) have leapt into action to help you against this threat. Princess Luna has told me much about He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness, and you must prevent Adagio from waking him. Vulcan Anvil sent his greetings from the Arcane Forge in Canterlot and was overjoyed to learn you would be taking up your craft again.

We have gathered quite an inventory for you. And, between us, I’m proud of myself for taking this on and being able to help you see it through. Even a week ago, I wouldn’t have been as comfortable making these sorts of requests of the other Princesses. One small ingot of star iron from the Crystal Empire costs over 200,000 bits, so Cadance and my brother just gave me millions of bits simply because I needed them to help you. Oh, the Aquastrian books from King Leo are priceless and irreplaceable, so I beg you to return them to Equestria after you defeat Adagio and Leviathan.

You must win this fight and stop He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness. Don’t let my worry and excitement get in the way of that simple fact. Forge your magical focus and use the spell components I’m sending you.

Sunset Shimmer could see Twilight Sparkle’s friendly, confident face in her mind’s eye. She said aloud, “I’m glad she’s a bit uncomfortable giving orders. It just wouldn’t be Twilight otherwise, but someone other than me should tell her that she does it awfully well.”

I would be a very poor friend if I didn’t tell you more about the individual that I’m sending your way, which I failed to do earlier.

“Here it comes,” mumbled Sunset Shimmer, cupping her chin in her hands and resting her elbows on the table.

His name is Discord. Yes, it’s that Discord. The same one that Celestia and Luna defeated using the Elements of Harmony before they were crowned. Let me tell you about my long, rocky history with the Spirit of Chaos. It’ll take my mind off the fact that there are about a hundred ponies doing work and completing checklists that I’m used to doing myself.

So, on a Ponyville school field trip to Canterlot…

Twilight gave Sunset Shimmer a factual account of Discord’s initial villainy, re-imprisonment courtesy of the Elements of Harmony, budding friendship with Fluttershy, general inaction during the Plunder Vines incident (which he caused), ruining a rare opportunity to spend time with Cadance, his betrayal of Equestria to Tirek, and finally, his apparent remorse and presumed passion for atonement.

As she read the last few paragraphs, Sunset Shimmer gasped and said to herself, “That’s why you had such an awful nightmare about this Tirek.” She continued reading.

Discord is older than Celestia, so he has unrivaled knowledge. He’s created magical items and magical creatures before with his magic, so I know he has the expertise you need even if his abilities are reduced at CHS. The problem you’ll have is getting that knowledge out of him. Fluttershy is convinced he’ll be helpful, and I sense that’s the way he feels right now. Perhaps the Fluttershy on your side of the mirror will have similar success. But, the past few months have taught me that the only thing predictable about Discord is his unpredictability.

He’ll need a way into Canterlot High, since there’s no way he’ll be able to pass as a parent. Use this:

Sunset Shimmer removed an elaborate letter of introduction to Principal Celestia from the thick journal. The letter, obviously written for maximum academic density by Twilight Sparkle, cited Discord’s impeccable talents in the discipline of theoretical mathematics, particularly in something called “Chaos Theory.” It also praised his ability to entertain young students with his unorthodox teaching methods. The sections describing his work history and accolades were completely and shamelessly manufactured. The letter was signed with a lavender wax seal sporting a familiar six pointed star and ribbons with the same colors as Twilight’s mane.

Good luck, and please write if I can help. Once Discord comes through the portal, I won’t be opening it again until you defeat this threat. It’s just too dangerous. Remember, I will open the portal at dawn.

Yours in friendship,
Twilight Sparkle

“Helllloooooo?” called Pinkie Pie from the top of the stairs. “It’s been awfully quiet down there. Are you alright, Sunset Shimmer?”

Closing her book and safeguarding Discord’s recommendation letter, Sunset answered, “I’m better now, Pinkie Pie, but I’m glad you checked on me. How is everyone upstairs?”

“They’re fine, but Angel didn’t like Aria sitting on his couch, so he bit her finger. Fluttershy’s not sure which of them to apologize to, so I figured it was a good time to come down here and check on you!” said Pinkie Pie enthusiastically, bouncing down the stairs.

No time like the present, Shimmer. Better get this over with, thought the former unicorn, standing up straight and facing the other girl.

Sunset Shimmer took a step towards Pinkie Pie and gravely looked her in the eyes. She cautiously asked, “Pinkie, can I talk to you about something very serious? It’s about before I became friends with you.”

The curly-haired dynamo raised an eyebrow and answered, “Yeah, why?”

The former unicorn nervously ran a hand through her hair and reached into her jacket’s pocket. She set the shards of Aria’s amulet on the table, and then reached into the other pocket. “You’re not making this any easier. I was pretty awful until after the Fall Formal.”

“Why don’t you just show me so we can have another I’m Sorry I Turned into a Demon Party?” asked the irrepressible Pinkie Pie, boldly reaching into the pocket of Sunset Shimmer’s jacket.

“Careful with those!” cried Sunset.

Pinkie Pie took the documents and read Adagio’s note first. She couldn’t contain herself. Pinkie shook with anger, shouting her commentary, “That big meanie! Taking your stuff? And what’s this about a throne room? Did Adagio drop a deuce in your toilet? Go home? This is Sunset Shimmer’s home now!!!”

Sunset Shimmer wisely stayed silent as Pinkie Pie looked at the two pictures closely. She looked at one, then the other. Pinkie looked at both at the same time, her eyebrows bouncing up and down. After two or three minutes of this, she puckered her lips and raised a single finger into the air.

“Meh. No big deal,” declared Pinkie Pie, shrugging her shoulders.

“What???” cried Sunset Shimmer in disbelief.

After another long silent moment, this one punctuated by Pinkie Pie nervously shifting her weight from one foot to the other, she finally answered, “Well, Rarity’s dad is sort of hot.”

Sunset Shimmer nearly fainted.

Pinkie followed up with a revelation haymaker that forced Sunset Shimmer to hold on to the exam table to keep from falling over. She said, “And, I’ve put some ‘extra ingredients’ into my baking from time to time!”

“You’re not mad? I sold powdered Equestrian flowers to a bunch of gangsters. I kissed and blackmailed a married man who just happens to be one of my best friends’ fathers! I’m a terrible pony!” Sunset’s worried voice shook.

“Calm down, Sunset Shimmer, calm down. Take this; it’s an emergency.” Pinkie Pie produced a chocolate bar from somewhere in her poofy pink curls, split it in half and shared it with Sunset Shimmer. They both took a bite and smiled at one another.

Pinkie continued, pleasantly but seriously, “You were a bad pony, but now you’re a good person. I don’t give a dirty jelly bean for what you did before I met you. Well, I’m still a little mad about you trashing my decorations at the Fall Formal, but you made up for that by what you did for us at the Battle of the Bands and what you’re doing now to help Sonata and Aria. I might feel different if it were Mr. Carrot Cake or,” Pinkie giggled and rolled her eyes, “my dad, but Mr. Hondo is a big boy, and it doesn’t look like you were forcing him to do anything he didn’t want to do.”

“But what about AJ, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity?” asked Sunset between bites.

Pinkie Pie waved her hands dismissively and casually answered, “Oh, please. Rarity’s going to be pissed off, but you – especially you – can talk her out of her drama. You just have to spin it right with the other two!” Pinkie twirled in a tight pirouette, pink hair flying in every direction.

Sunset Shimmer hugged Pinkie Pie for a long time, the chocolate bar slowly melting in her hand. She finally said, “Thank you, Pinkie, but there’s more.”

Pinkie Pie’s right leg twitched, and her left eye started winking rapidly. Pinkie looked as if she had been struck by a bolt of lightning, then took a deep breath and then began her explanation at breakneck speed. “Adagio has a master that’s even bigger, badder and ickier than she could ever be. Oooh, and whatever it is has super bad magic. We have to stop Crazy Cheetos Curls, and it’s going to be tough because she has all your secret stuff. And, we’re also worried there’s some creepy skeleton or something helping Adagio. So, Twilight’s sending you a wacky knight to help you make something in the morning!!!”

“Wow, that’s actually pretty close, Pinkie!” said an amazed Sunset Shimmer, her jaw hanging open. “Can you help me with the molds tonight? It’s not much different than making custom baked goods because you have to make it just right.”

“I’ll do my very best to help you! Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!!!” Pinkie Pie squealed while pantomiming her most solemn promise.

“That’s settled, then! Let’s go upstairs, and I’ll start with a sketch of what I’ve been thinking of making to strengthen my magic,” said Sunset Shimmer.

The four young women spent the next hour quietly for the most part. Fluttershy and Aria sat on the couch together, quietly comparing Fluttershy’s move to Canterlot from Cloudsdale to Aria’s trans-oceanic move from Trottingham to Baltimare. Coming out of her shell, Fluttershy also regaled Aria with tales of the occasions she had looked after Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom at the cottage. Pinkie Pie was unusually silent and kept herself entertained by continually refilling Aria’s coffee mug, playing with Angel Bunny, cleaning up the mess she had made and closely watching Sunset Shimmer’s design take shape.

Sunset Shimmer was in a world of her own as she used a variety of pencils on a large pad. Before beginning, she had gathered her gold-and-red hair into a ponytail. Her head bowed with concentration, the greenish-blue eyes barely flickered away from the pad, even when she switched between gross and fine pencils. With one passionate stroke after another, memories flickered through her head:

Welcome to Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, Sunset Shimmer!

You have a very special talent for magic, Sunset Shimmer. I want you to join me for some very special classes.

A four-pointed star in the shape of a cross took shape behind a circle about four inches across. A sinuous line split the circle horizontally in the fashion of Sunset Shimmer’s cutie mark. She sketched the dark upper half of the circle boldly, angrily, with a furrowed brow. Sunset pressed on despite the painful memories:

That knowledge is dangerous, Sunset Shimmer!

This is your final warning, or you must leave my school!

How about a hundred thousand dollars for that dope? Um, I mean those flowers?

I’ve never met a girl as beautiful as you, Sunset Shimmer.

Fine! I’ll pay!

Stop! Thief!

The crown may be upon your head, Sunset Shimmer, but you cannot wield it, because you do not possess the most powerful magic of all: the Magic of Friendship!

Sunset Shimmer finished the dark, tear-shaped semicircle with tears in her own eyes. She began delicately shading the lower, white semicircle, the one that would be closest to her heart, as fond memories came forth from deep inside her:

My dear, can I lend a hand with those bricks?

I hope you have an awesome holiday!

But the important thing is that you've turned yourself around.

The pencil strokes became more precise, and Sunset Shimmer sat taller in Fluttershy’s chair.

Sunset Shimmer, we need you!

I want you to have these. It’s the best promise that I can make to stay out of trouble while you are helping me.

Thank you for saving my life.

…we love you for who you are, and forgive you for who you were…

The last memory came from numerous voices welling up from Sunset Shimmer’s soul, and she finished with a flourish. She broke her gaze from the paper and found all three of her friends clustered around the chair.

“Oh, my, Sunny! Look what happened!” Fluttershy exclaimed, pointing at Sunset Shimmer’s head.

She touched her head and found fuzzy pony ears, then felt that her lustrous red-and-gold hair had increased in length and coiled behind her in the chair. “Celestia! What caused this?” Sunset Shimmer asked.

Aria folded her arms across her chest and said, “I could feel the magic from across the room. You were concentrating so hard we didn’t dare disturb you.”

“What is it?” Pinkie Pie asked, leaping into the air and placing her head next to Sunset’s, peering at the sketch pad.

Looking at Fluttershy, Aria Blaze and Pinkie Pie in turn, Sunset Shimmer felt the magic recede. Her pony ears and magically-lengthened hair winked out of existence. Putting her index finger on the drawing, she said, “This is what will focus my magic and help us stop Adagio. It’s a necklace, and you’re going to help me make it.”

Aria Blaze walked around the chair and leaned forward. Her long purple-and-teal pigtails fell across the pad and tickled Sunset Shimmer’s fingers. She peered intensely into the former unicorn’s eyes.

“That’s not all you’re going to make, and Adagio is certainly not the only one you’re going to stop. Come outside with me,” ordered Aria, her purple eyes ablaze with impatience.

Sunset Shimmer stood, and the two young women walked to the door. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy, mouths open, watched them walk out the door into the dusk. The door clicked shut behind them, and the wind buffeted the house.

Outside, Aria walked around to the large side yard, which held several storage sheds, a chicken coop and still more homes for wayward animals. Sunset followed her, shielding her face from the gusty wind. Thunder rumbled in the distance.

“I’m tired of sitting in that house waiting for you to get to work!” Aria shouted over the wind, opening a shed and rummaging inside. “Don’t you understand the danger?”

Sunset Shimmer narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists and yelled back, “I only have one shot at this. I have to get it right!”

Throwing two baseball bats on the ground and slipping a heavy metal collar over the barrel of each, Aria retorted, “You’re damned right you only have one chance! You said you can make me a club or a mace. You’d better get started. We’re running out of time!”

“But, Twilight is sending help!” Sunset replied, taking a step back.

Lightning flashed and thunder boomed in the distance. Aria threw back her head and laughed at the gathering storm. A wide-armed gesture took in the weather as the Siren raged. “You think that this is an accident? We learn that Adagio is in league with death magic, and you cry and draw while the storm builds? This weather is a warning!” Aria Blaze kicked one of the weighted bats toward Sunset Shimmer.

As fat raindrops began to fall, Sunset Shimmer picked up the weapon and brought it up in a defensive posture. Her green-blue eyes shone with anger. “I’m trying to save us with my magic!”

“I believe in Lady Luna’s words to me. The sword she carried in my dream revealed her to me as a warrior. She told me to trust you. So, use your talents! Give me the tool I need to defend myself, you and your friends! Dance with me and let me show you what I can do.” Aria Blaze bent down and picked up her bat, taking a couple of practice swings with the heavy blunt instrument and adjusting the metal collar.

Sunset Shimmer cried, “This is crazy! It’s only been twelve hours since you woke up!”

“I won’t have the first week of my new life be my last! Now, dance!” Aria advanced on Sunset Shimmer, heavy bat at the ready.

Dancing was the proper way to describe the way that Aria moved through the cloudburst. Aria’s exploratory swings forced Sunset Shimmer to leap sideways. The former unicorn marveled at the Siren’s dexterity and the violet intensity of her angry eyes. Sunset took a clumsy swing at Aria as she went by, leaving herself dangerously open. Aria rebuked her opponent with a blow to her ribs.

She could have broken about five ribs, Sunset thought, watching Aria twirl the makeshift mace with a flourish. But, she didn’t. Aria held back. Awareness suddenly ignited in her mind. Rainbow Dash and Applejack do this! She’s just blowing off steam. I hope.

Sunset, grunting from the strain, parried a couple of Aria’s attacks. She jabbed with her bat, hoping to find any kind of opening in the Siren’s defense, but Aria nimbly swatted away the tentative attacks. Sunset Shimmer gripped the makeshift mace with both hands and swung hard with an overhand blow. Aria caught the full force of the strike on her own weapon, left hand cupping the end of the bat. Briefly dropping to one knee, she then extended her arms and forcefully hurled Sunset Shimmer backwards. Aria then regained her footing and boldly strode forward.

“How did you do that? That swing was everything I had, and you shrugged it off!” cried Sunset Shimmer, rubbing a bruised tricep as the cold rain continued to pour from the darkening sky.

Not answering, Aria Blaze waited until Sunset Shimmer was in a fully defensive posture, and then leapt at the former unicorn. “Leviathan will never touch me again!” she screamed.

Celestia, she’s strong, Sunset thought as she tumbled into the mud near Fluttershy’s chicken coop. Aria never lost her footing, and advanced on her prone opponent.

Sunset Shimmer, from her filthy vantage point, beheld a figure straight out of mythology. In her fury, Aria Blaze had the lethal grace of a tigress with her long purple-and-teal pigtails fanning out sideways like twin banners. The lightning illuminated her athletic figure, and the gathering darkness caused her purple eyes to glow as they had in the aquarium.

Aria raised the mace, her face twisted with rage. Thunder boomed. She howled, “GET TO WORK!” and brought the bat down with a powerful, two-handed blow, aimed several inches to the right of Sunset Shimmer’s head.

The metal collar around the bat accidentally struck one of the small chains that acted as extra structural support for the chicken coop. Sparks flew, and the chain explosively parted, halting the combat. Aria looked at the bat, then the chain and then down at a filthy, soaked Sunset Shimmer. The cloudburst subsided for a moment, becoming a steady rain. The howling gale diminished to a breeze.

Aria Blaze tilted her head back and laughed with joy, tears spilling down her face. She tossed the makeshift weapon aside and joined Sunset Shimmer in the muck, lifting her up and enfolding her in a crushing hug.

“Sunset, I’m so sorry to do that to you, but I couldn’t sit in that comfy cottage any longer and worry that you had forgotten about me or the dangers we face. I had to prove to myself you would still help me. Even more, I needed to dance in my own way and show you how good I am at it. I haven’t done that in years!” said Aria as the rain poured down around them. Her eyes wide with zeal, she gripped both of Sunset Shimmer’s shoulders. “But, Lady Luna smiles upon us. I now know what you must make, and I even know its name.”

A soaked Sunset Shimmer groaned and rubbed her ribs. “Aria, you’re amazing, but can we please go back inside and continue this conversation where it’s warm? And, please tell me that this isn’t the way you treat all your new friends.”

Her face tranquil once more, Aria Blaze looked at the ground and blushed. She replied, “I’m not really used to new friends, but I don’t think I’d try this with Fluttershy. Maybe the guitar player with the crazy hair would give it a shot! Let’s get out of the rain, Sunset Shimmer. I suddenly think that this storm of warning may pass after all.”

Despite the thunder and lightning, the two young women returned to the cottage laughing with one another. The forgotten bat lay on the ground atop the broken chain.

Following two hot showers, a lengthy explanation to Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy along with copious amounts of hot beverages, Sunset Shimmer and Aria Blaze sat on the floor next to the couch, their feet beneath a fine wooden coffee table. Their heads were close together in conversation as they worked on a second sketch. In the kitchen, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy prepared a delicious, hearty stew. The storm resumed outside, but inside, the glow of the wood-burning stove warmed the sturdy cottage.

Aria, clothed in a borrowed terrycloth bathrobe and clutching yet another mug of coffee, excitedly waved Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy over to the table.

Sunset Shimmer confidently set her pencils down. With a smile that illuminated her green-blue eyes, she said, “Girls, I think we’ve got it. I’m pretty sure I can make this with some help from Equestria.”

A drawing of a simple mace sat on the coffee table. This newest sketch lay next to the diagram of the necklace. The weapon’s head was drawn to scale and was about seven inches long. Two curved raised ridges, mimicking waves upon the ocean, adorned its top and bottom. Encircling the center of the mace’s head was an intricate design. Chain links circumscribed the weapon, but each link was broken in some way. In the center of the design, Aria had drawn her sigil, a five-pointed star superimposed upon twin lightning bolts that violently shattered the surrounding chain links.

Aria named the weapon. She pointed at the sketch, simply stating, “Chainbreaker.”

Pinkie Pie raised her eyebrows. “Huh?” she asked.

Aria Blaze silently arched a purple eyebrow and elbowed Sunset Shimmer in the ribs, wrinkling her insulated coveralls.

“Fine, Aria. The Sirens’ Master used slavery as a tool to dominate the world Aria was exiled from a thousand years ago. Think about it; all the magic they used during the Battle of the Bands was intended to bring us all under their control. If I make this weapon properly, it will be a powerful force for positive magic and protect its wielder somewhat from dark magic,” explained Sunset Shimmer.

“Well, I’m sorry to interrupt, because you’ve all been so terribly busy, but dinner is ready. I hope you’re not mad that it’s a little late,” said Fluttershy with a nervous smile.

Sunset Shimmer stood and stretched. She said, “Well, we were a little occupied. Thank you, Fluttershy. Okay, everybody, let’s eat! We can decide who wants to work with wax and who wants to work with clay over dinner. I might not get both molds done tonight, but at least we’ll make a good start.”

The four girls joined one another at the table near the wood burning stove. Their smiles and laughter overcame the day’s awful revelations and kept the wind, rain, thunder and lightning outside at bay.

The evening slipped into night. Fluttershy washed the dishes while Aria Blaze dried them and put them away. In the basement, Pinkie Pie assisted Sunset Shimmer with the mold that would become Chainbreaker. Sunset insisted it be finished first, since the clay would require lots of time in the kiln in the CHS art rooms to be ready. Fluttershy jumped as a loud thump, followed by a series of smaller ones, came from the examination room. A flushed Sunset Shimmer, with the sleeves of her coveralls rolled up and hair in disarray, burst into the great room.

Panicked, Sunset asked, “Aria, where’s my phone? I forgot to tell everyone about the help that Twilight is sending!”

“You probably left it in Fluttershy’s room with the clothes I helped you ruin,” answered Aria. Flicking her pigtails in front of her bathrobe-clad shoulders she gave Sunset a wry smile and added, “No offense.”

Emotions battled on Sunset Shimmer’s face. Fluttershy covered her mouth with both hands, her teal eyes wide in shock. Amusement won over rage, and Sunset pointed at Aria and said with a smile, “Good one. None taken, this time! But, you’d better have my jacket ready to wear again by morning!”

Sunset Shimmer’s golden-tinted fingers tapped out a short text message to Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash:

Twilight is sending help. We have bigger problems. Be at the statue in front of the school at dawn tomorrow. RD, sunrise is 6:24 and doesn’t have a snooze button. Don’t be late. I’m at F’s with PP and Aria. Make sure Sonata’s all right. Stay safe and dry.

At Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow Dash was already snoring loudly in Applejack’s room. The chaos of the unexpected arrival had already been forgiven.

In the living room with the fire burning low, Sonata Dusk had put on headphones to block out the noises from both inside and outside the house. She had selected the Beethoven recording that had been enclosed with the book borrowed from Cheerilee’s library, and now drowsed peacefully.

Applejack, unable to sleep, was seated in the dark kitchen, drinking a glass of warm milk and letting the light from her cell phone illuminate the same photo album that Apple Bloom had shown Sonata Dusk earlier that evening. She sadly smiled at each page, occasionally saluting a picture with the glass before taking a sip. Suddenly, her phone buzzed, receiving the text message from Sunset Shimmer. A roll of thunder from outside rattled the windows. Frowning, she closed the photo album and set the cell phone’s alarm clock. Applejack downed the rest of the milk in one gulp and set the empty glass in the sink.

Carefully tiptoeing past Sonata, Applejack doused the fire and put the photo album back on the shelf. The farmgirl then meticulously checked every room in the house and accounted for every Apple and guest before she stepped over the sleeping bag holding Rainbow Dash’s unconscious but noisy form.

Climbing on to her bed, she kneeled on the mattress and then drew back the curtain. Though the rain still came down, and the lighting periodically illuminated the sky, the view from her bedroom window provided an unobstructed view of the western sky. A break in the clouds showed glittering stars. Applejack carefully placed her hat on the bedpost and gazed into the night.

Applejack opened the window, letting the cool, damp air into her bedroom. “Ma, Pa,” she whispered, “I’m scared and I miss you. These last few days have been filled with all sorts of unnatural things, like a nightmare come to life. But something tells me the worst is yet to come. This fall was different. Then, I didn’t know a lick about magic or demons or unicorns.”

Applejack clasped her hands and continued her soft conversation with the night. “Now, I just worry that something dark is sneaking up on us and has picked this time to do its worst. I wish you could just hug me like you did when I was little and make the nightmares go away. I need to be strong for Apple Bloom, for Big Macintosh, and for my friends. I think Sunset Shimmer turned herself around for good now, but can I ever really be sure?”

The break in the clouds passed briefly over the moon at the same time that Rainbow Dash gave an especially explosive snore. Applejack looked towards her friend in annoyance. Pale white radiance reflected the raindrops, causing dark shadows to dance playfully across the room. Applejack turned back to the window to resume her one-sided conversation with her parents.

As she rotated back to the open window, she whispered a soft, reverent obscenity.

Balanced perfectly on the bed’s headboard was an enormous bluish-gray feather. Applejack lifted the mysterious object and brought the vane up to her nose, shutting the window with her other hand. The feather smelled like a distant memory, powerful and pure, washed clean by the rain. Applejack immediately fell into a deep sleep and dreamt of happy days past and of a bright future she hoped would come to pass.

At the Carousel Boutique, Rarity’s red spectacles were perched on the tip of her nose while she worked late into the night. Sweetie Belle was fast asleep upstairs and had been for a couple of hours. The storm still raged outside, but the store and its attached apartments barely felt its effects, aside from the dazzling lightning flashes that illuminated the darkened storefront. Rarity was nearly done repairing the damage to the gown that Sunset Shimmer had worn the previous night. Unfortunately, to fix the garment properly required restitching several areas by hand, which was difficult and time consuming.

Flexing her aching white fingers, Rarity thought, Of course I was correct to tell Sunset Shimmer that the dress could be mended more easily than a person, but I had forgotten just how tough “easier” can be. Her lower lip extended in a dramatic pout while she finished her thought. She did look absolutely divine in it. I hope she wears it again soon.

Atop a stack of unopened mail, a sparkling purple phone beeped loudly.

“Who could that be at this hour?” Rarity asked, walking to the sales counter and read Sunset Shimmer’s group text.

“I’ll certainly stay indoors where it’s safe and dry, my dear, but if this keeps up, tomorrow’s fashion may require a trenchcoat and rubber boots,” she said to herself, affectionately cupping the phone.

Rarity began opening the mail. The last item was a large envelope with only her name on it. She pulled out a photograph with a paper clipped note that obscured the individuals pictured. Rarity read:

Do you know who your friends truly are? Do you know why your parents suddenly needed a loan from you last year?

Rarity removed the note and looked at the months-old photograph of a cruel, provocatively-dressed Sunset Shimmer passionately kissing her father. The fashion designer’s blue eyes widened and her lips trembled. Still in disbelief, Rarity shook her head violently, purple hair sweeping the picture in denial of what she was holding. Eyes narrowing, she decisively stuffed the picture and the note back into the envelope, then slammed the package back on the counter with the palm of her hand. Tears streamed from Rarity’s eyes and her mascara ran down her cheeks along with them, but her teeth were clenched in betrayed rage.

She stomped back to the sewing machine. Rarity carefully removed the striking black gown with the custom design from the table and placed it on a hanger. Shoving several other evening gowns aside, she placed Sunset Shimmer’s dress as far back into the closet as she could reach.

Marching upstairs to her suite, Rarity venomously growled a three word question to the night. “How could you?”

One final crash of thunder rattled the windows of the Carousel Boutique, like the last, tragic note of a symphony, as Rarity extinguished the lights with a furious flick of an alabaster finger.

Author's Note

I have wonderful news to share! Dane of Celestia has agreed to create new cover art for this story. I hope to be able to share it with you in a little more than a week, though I’ll admit that I’m having trouble being patient. Please bear with me and don't ever grow tired of my gratitude to IsabellaAmoreSirenix for fixing what I mess up and for keeping me in line! She keeps this ship afloat.

I am confident (but won’t quite Pinkie Promise) that everyone’s favorite draconequus will appear in Chapter 11 Scene 1. I apologize for making you wait two chapters, but the stage had to be set properly for such a grand entrance.

I look forward to learning what you think of this chapter’s developments and continue to be grateful to you for faithfully spending your time to read this story!

Chapter Eleven

The damp, gray mist curled across the rain-soaked front lawn of Canterlot High School. As early-morning darkness turned to twilight, the nearby streetlights winked out one by one. Breaks in the dark clouds above permitted the last few twinkling stars to shine down upon the statue where the portal to Equestria lay.

Sunset Shimmer rubbed her eyes as she pushed open the front door of the high school and pulled the zipper of her custom-fitted leather jacket all the way up. She wrapped her arms around herself to guard against the pre-dawn chill. Pinkie Pie followed Sunset Shimmer outside, and then cheerfully skipped down the stairs towards a large statue of a powerful horse rearing up into the air.

Pinkie Pie turned around when she reached the bottom of the stairs. Stifling a yawn, she said, “I’m glad we were able to pop that bun in the oven!” One of her blue eyes closed in a conspiratorial wink.

Sunset Shimmer rolled her eyes and shook her head at Pinkie’s choice of words. “If you compare the mold to a baby again, I’m going to hope very bad things happen to you. Anyway, if we’re lucky, it will be done late tonight. Fortunately, the school hasn’t changed any locks lately,” she replied sleepily.

The two of them were able to begin firing the mold for Chainbreaker in the wee hours of the morning. Aria Blaze’s hints for haste, urging for speed, and finally demands for progress drove Sunset Shimmer and Pinkie Pie out of Fluttershy’s cottage and into Canterlot High School’s darkened art rooms the moment after the mold was finished. Once they had gained access to the school, Sunset remembered that the kiln only appeared to be an intimidating piece of equipment. Like most other machines of this world, it was relatively simple to operate if one took the time to read and follow the instructions.

“And it’s super-duper timing that the art classes are working on paintings and not pottery right now!” added Pinkie Pie enthusiastically.

Sunset Shimmer reached the statue and tentatively tested whether the portal was open. Her index finger pressed against solid, mirror-finished rock. “Well, it’s five-after-six. Where is everyone?” she asked impatiently.

“We’re here, Sunset Shimmer!” announced Applejack.

Applejack was herding Sonata Dusk and Rainbow Dash toward the statue. She touched the brim of her hat and seemed unusually energized. On the flip side, Rainbow Dash was sullen and appeared exhausted. Her multicolored hair stuck out in several directions and her eyes were only half-open above an annoyed frown. Sonata Dusk, shuffling forward in yet another set of borrowed clothes, yawned and gave Sunset Shimmer a pleasant wave.

Sunset opened her mouth to greet her friends when a loud bang came from the mist in the general direction of the student parking lot.

“Are you trying to give me a heart attack, Fluttershy?” cried Aria Blaze through the mist. A car door loudly slammed shut.

Fluttershy’s embarrassment was evident as she demurely replied, “Oh, the van must have backfired, Aria. I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to startle you.” A second car door clicked closed in the distance.

A few moments later, Fluttershy and Aria emerged from the milky fog. Aria rushed to Sunset Shimmer and coolly asked, “Did you get the mold started?”

“Of course,” Sunset replied. “We started the kiln at about three-thirty. Pinkie and I got a little bit of sleep on the couches in the lobby before coming out here.”

Aria started an attempt to justify herself. “Sunset, I’m sorry that I pushed… Ooof!” she grunted as Sonata Dusk enfolded her in a surprise hug from behind.

“Aria, you’re better!” Sonata exclaimed happily.

“I might not be if you tackle me again like that,” she grumbled. Her frown changed to a small smile. “But, it’s good to see you, too.”

Sunset Shimmer looked at the two Sirens in surprise and pride. She noticed the profound changes that the past few days had wrought on their appearances. Sonata, who had demanded the former unicorn’s attention as a sobbing, injured, damsel-in-distress, was now projecting mystery and radiance while enigmatically smiling at Aria. Aria’s cruelty was once the defining aspect of her personality and appearance. This morning, she tentatively returned the hug and Sonata’s smile. Still, Aria’s darting eyes betrayed her vigilance and determination. Sunset Shimmer grinned at the reunion before her, despite her fatigue.

Sonata Dusk turned towards Sunset Shimmer and looked her in the eyes. She said, “Thank you, Sunset Shimmer. I would have never have met a great family like the Apples without you.”

“And, I would have never have been free to make my own choices without you,” added Aria Blaze.

“You’re very welcome, both of you, but I was just doing what I thought was right,” replied Sunset Shimmer. She shifted her weight from one foot to the other and played with the zipper on her jacket.

An impatient Rainbow Dash interrupted and asked, “Hey, are we going to get this show on the road, or what? What happened yesterday?”

“What sort of help is Twilight sending?” asked Applejack.

Rarity’s voice inquired, “Yes, indeed. What did happen yesterday, Sunset Shimmer? I, for one, am simply dying to know.” Her voice had a prissy tone as she emerged from the mist.

Rarity had dressed for the runway this morning, not the classroom. She wore a beige trenchcoat over a deep purple business suit and traded her everyday boots for fashionable, expensive heels. Sunset Shimmer couldn’t quite tell whether Rarity’s blue eyes were staring or glaring at her, but the fashionista’s pose demanded attention. She placed one hand on her hip, her body language challenging Sunset Shimmer.

Sensing trouble, Sunset Shimmer gulped and glanced at Fluttershy. From the back of the crowd, Fluttershy shooed Sunset towards the statue with both hands.

Sunset Shimmer, with seven pairs of eyes upon her, cleared her throat and began. “The past few days have been crazy. I know that. Before the portal opens, I wanted to take a couple of minutes to sum up what’s been going on. Rainbow Dash, the bottom line up front is that the eight of us, if not all of Canterlot, are in serious danger.”

Rainbow Dash stifled a yawn and gave Applejack an elbow to the ribs. She joked, “Danger is my middle name.”

Applejack whispered a facetious reply. “Last week it was ‘responsibility.’”

“Aria has told me that the Sirens served a dark Master called Leviathan beneath the seas of Equestria’s world. He changed them from mermares into Sirens over a thousand years ago. We knew that Adagio, Aria and Sonata nearly divided and conquered Equestria before their exile here, but we didn’t know that most of their powers came from their connection to this evil, squid-like monster,” continued Sunset Shimmer, her brow furrowed as she concentrated on choosing the correct words.

Aria held up a purple-tinted finger and corrected Sunset Shimmer. “He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness is more of a demigod than a monster and much more dangerous than say, a unicorn-turned-demon.”

Sunset Shimmer gestured with her right hand and proceeded. “Fair enough. Thanks, Aria. After the Sirens were exiled, the society that they came from was completely destroyed and reformed. An empire built upon slavery and female dominance was replaced by a realm of co-existence and music. This new domain has lasted for the past thousand years. In our time, the most important thing that we’ve pieced together is that Adagio is now more desperate than ever to wake Leviathan and return home. That must not happen, because it would bring magical war to this world and to Equestria.”

Pinkie Pie waved her hand in the air wildly. She shouted, “How would big, bad and slimy get a wake-up call?”

“We don’t know.” Sonata and Aria both regretfully shook their heads in unison.

Sunset Shimmer kept moving forward with her explanation. “Adagio kept many secrets. She was the main link between the Sirens and Leviathan. Here is my plan: Aria and Sonata have both given me their shattered Siren pendants. Twilight Sparkle is sending me a being called Discord to give me a hand. He is thousands of years old and has a lot of magical knowledge. Twilight said that he can be a pain, but that he really wants to help.”

“Discord? I’m not sure I like the sound of that,” declared Applejack suspiciously.

Sunset Shimmer gave Applejack an uncertain frown. She replied, “Neither do I. Discord is an old mare’s tale that has come to life since I left Equestria. I simply have to trust Princess Twilight’s wisdom on this, but my intuition tells me the situation is much more complicated than she could explain in a journal entry to me.”

Applejack fiddled with her hat and finally declared, “I can live with that. Keep going, Sunset Shimmer.”

“With Twilight’s help from the other side of the portal, I am going to make magical items from the Sirens’ shards at Applejack’s forge.” Sunset Shimmer ticked off the items on her fingers. “One is a necklace that will help me focus the Equestrian magic that has entered this world, which could restore much of my spell casting ability. The other will be an enchanted weapon that will be used to combat our new enemies.”

The girls who had not stayed the night at Fluttershy’s began to jabber with disbelief and excitement. Sunset Shimmer glanced at her watch. It was a little more than ten minutes to sunrise.

She held up both hands and announced, “I’m not finished yet!” The others quieted and permitted Sunset to speak. “Two terrible things happened yesterday that made me decide to do this. First, when we retrieved Aria’s belongings from the Sirens’ hideout, I felt traces of dark magic. Technically, this is called ‘necromancy,’ but it’s simply described as ‘death magic.’ Someone or something allied with Adagio used this type of magic to kill some animals.”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! More evil magic? We are totally awesome, but how many times do we have to save the world this year?” interjected an incredulous Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy laid a hand on Rainbow Dash’s arm and said, “It was terrifying! Those poor fish had no way of knowing what happened.”

“Twilight admitted that she wouldn’t have left us if she knew about Leviathan, but she has made it clear that she’s not coming to rescue us this time. We just have to find Adagio and stop her in order to protect Twilight’s new kingdom and our own world,” Sunset declared, punching her palm with her fist.

Before Sunset Shimmer continued, Sonata Dusk interrupted. “I think I know how I can find Adagio.” She waved the simple card that Ms. Raven had given her. “Maybe I can help set up an ambush.”

Sunset glanced at her watch again and hurriedly said, “Let me get through this, please, but thank you, Sonata. We will need all the help we can get.” Sunset Shimmer pulled Adagio’s belt buckle from her pocket and handed it to Rarity. Rarity’s intensity softened for a moment as Sunset’s impromptu speech continued. “Second, Adagio broke into my apartment and took a lot of things from my early days in this world that I hoped would have stayed hidden. I have already spoken to Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie about what was stolen. They reveal many, if not all, of the awful, selfish things I did before you and Twilight helped me to understand the power of friendship last fall.”

She extended her index finger in an effort to stall the inevitable blitz of questions. “But I would like to speak with Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Rarity privately about this. Rarity, before our guest arrives, would you mind talking to me inside?”

“Very well. I also need to discuss an important matter with you,” agreed Rarity. She turned on her heel and strode purposefully towards the school’s entrance.

“Pinkie Pie, don’t let us be late,” directed Sunset Shimmer.

Pinkie Pie nodded enthusiastically and replied, “Okie dokie lokie!”

Fluttershy hugged herself and looked at Aria Blaze worriedly. Aria held both hands out, palms up, and shrugged her shoulders.

Sunset Shimmer used her set of school keys to reopen the front door and they walked inside. “Rarity, I think you’ll need to take a seat,” invited Sunset Shimmer. She motioned Rarity towards one of the couches in the main foyer.

The gray twilight filtered through the large windows, sending eerie shadows dancing across the expanse. Rarity, with practiced grace, unbuttoned her trench coat, removed a large manila envelope and laid the coat carefully over the back of the couch. Her facial expression was impassive, almost sphinxlike. Rarity clutched the envelope in her right hand, smoothed her skirt and took a seat. Sunset Shimmer moved to sit next to her friend, but realized that Rarity had not left her enough space to sit.

“Rarity, there’s something I need to tell you. Something I should have told you a long time ago,” began Sunset Shimmer.

The muscles behind the skin of Rarity’s jaw clenched and her eyes narrowed dangerously. Still, she kept her tone even. She said simply, “I know.”

Her perfectly manicured white hands shaking, Rarity opened the envelope and handed Sunset Shimmer a large photograph. Its smaller twin was in the pocket of Sunset Shimmer’s leather jacket. The former unicorn suddenly felt like she needed to vomit.

The larger print of Sunset Shimmer kissing Rarity’s father revealed even more hurtful details of the captured moment. Hondo’s left hand lingered on the girl’s shoulder, plainly showing the wedding ring that he clearly intended to betray. The man’s eyes were closed and he was passionately enjoying the kiss and associated embrace. Sunset Shimmer’s eyes were open, seeking the hidden photographer.

Rarity’s eyes were wide and her lower lip trembled. She set the picture next to her leg on the couch. Her voice cracked as she asked, “Why didn’t you tell me? You had so many chances before now.”

Sunset walked towards the couch and extended a hand. Rarity crossed her arms and shifted in her seat. Sunset Shimmer sadly replied, “I’m sorry, Rarity. I just couldn’t. After this winter, I should have told you, but I was too scared.” Tears began to well in the corners of her green-blue eyes.

Rarity saw Sunset’s tears begin to form and her blue eyes flashed angrily. She pointed a finger dramatically and said, “Scared? Sunset Shimmer, you are many things, but I have never thought of you as being frightened of anything. I am hurt and I am furious that after all you’ve accomplished, you never found the time to reveal this devastating secret to me. What is it that you wanted? Was it someone more mature and experienced? I decided to play that part for you this morning.” She made a practiced gesture that took in her suit, her figure and her displeasure.

“No, that’s not it at all, Rarity! Please, let me explain! I don’t want to lose your friendship,” Sunset Shimmer pleaded.

Rarity bristled at the last word. Wounded beyond the point where her normal theatrics were possible, Rarity said simply, but sadly, “Until I opened this envelope, I held hopes we could be more than that. But those hopes are evaporating like the fog out there will when the sun strikes it. My mother and I know my father’s failings. We have been forced to endure it for a long while. Why did it have to be you this time, Sunset?” Rarity’s composure was starting to show cracks, and she retrieved a handkerchief from the pocket of her trench coat.

“Rarity, I’ll tell you the truth, but it will hurt to hear it,” said Sunset Shimmer. She sat on the floor next to the couch and drew her knees up to her chest. “Are you ready?” A single tear ran down her face and fell to the floor.

“My heart is already broken. What’s a bit more at this point?” wailed Rarity. She dabbed at her eyes with the handkerchief.

She looked at the floor as she confessed the entire sequence of events to Rarity, including the episode involving the gangsters and the Mare’s Bridle flowers. “About a year ago, I realized that I didn’t have enough materials to finish the replica of Twilight’s crown. I was running out of time before the portal reopened and I needed money quickly. The flowers were all gone. The teachers seemed to know all about your father, so I used that information to trap him.”

Rarity began to cry in earnest, and not even the monogrammed handkerchief could save her makeup.

“We went on a date. I kissed him and he kissed me back. But that’s all that ever, um, physically happened between us. A week later, I revealed that I was still in high school, showed him the pictures and demanded twenty-five grand to keep my mouth shut. He was furious, but agreed to pay. That money bought what I needed to finish the crown.”

At the mention of the money, the blood drained from Rarity’s face, and she stopped crying. She scooted as far away from Sunset Shimmer as the couch would allow. Rarity moaned, “You know who paid that bribe? I did! My father asked me for a loan last summer! Now I know why! Is money all that you loved?”

“Oh, Rarity, I don’t know what to say. Of course not! Not anymore! I care about you and all of our friends.” Sunset Shimmer reached out to Rarity again, and again she was rebuffed.

Rarity shook her head and her face betrayed a complex set of emotions. “Why did it have to be you? Two nights ago, it was perfect. You were so beautiful, so admirable under pressure, and you saved a life in my home. But, now I can’t forget about the monster you used to be! I can’t trust you anymore!” She began to sob.

Sunset Shimmer saw a scrap of paper beneath the incriminating picture and snatched it while Rarity wept. Sunset compared the handwriting on the two notes and came to a sudden realization.

“I know what I did was wrong, but look who dropped off this picture to you,” said Sunset Shimmer, handing both notes to Rarity.

“Adagio Dazzle?” asked Rarity, taking the bejeweled orange belt buckle from her pocket. The flow of her tears halted.

Sunset Shimmer nodded and wiped away a tear of her own. She replied, “Yes. Remember what I said outside. Adagio is up to something sinister and we have to stop her.”

Sunset Shimmer’s attempt to inspire Rarity failed. She shook her purple curls vigorously and said, “No, you have to stop Adagio. I need some time away from you to think about what a fool I’ve been.”

“I’m not that person now!” Sunset Shimmer protested. “I need your help!”

Rarity stood, pulled the trench coat over her shoulders and gathered her belongings. She said, “I’ll have Elegant Ensemble call the school. If I’m inclined to see you or speak to you, I’ll find a way to let you know. Until then, I need some time away from magic, betrayal and dirty secrets.”

“But, Rarity…” Sunset Shimmer sputtered.

She walked back to the entrance. Rarity looked back sadly and said, “Do pass on my apologies to Twilight’s colleague. Today, I’m not fit company for any creatures that normally roam on four legs.”

Sunset buried her face in her hands. Rarity slipped out the front door of the high school just as Pinkie Pie ascended the stairs.

The pink-haired girl raised her eyebrows as Rarity hurried past her without a word. Sticking to her appointed task, she said, “Where’s Rarity going? Sunrise is in a minute or two!” Pinkie Pie suddenly realized that Sunset Shimmer was crying. She put her arm around her friend. “Oh, no! Rarity will come around. It’ll just take some time, and some sugar. Lots of sugar! But, we have to go to the portal right now.”

Pinkie Pie helped Sunset Shimmer to her feet. Rarity’s handkerchief still sat on the couch. Sunset Shimmer grabbed it, dried her eyes and carefully placed it in her jacket’s inside pocket.

"Thanks, Pinkie," said Sunset Shimmer, recovering her composure. "Let's go and meet Discord."

While Rarity and Sunset Shimmer spoke in the high school foyer, the two Sirens stood a bit apart from the rest of the group, which afforded them a small measure of privacy. Aria Blaze listened to Sonata Dusk gush about the Apple Family in general and Big Macintosh in particular.

“You should hear him sing, Aria! His music is nothing like the songs that Adagio made. Big Macintosh picked stuff that was sad and sweet all at once.” Sonata clasped her hands excitedly over her chest.

There was something different about Sonata’s enthusiasm that put Aria on guard. “What do his sisters say about all this, Sonata?”

Sonata cheerfully and randomly continued. “Hmm, let’s see. Apple Bloom tried to tell me Big Mac’s dating the school librarian.” Sonata waved her hand dismissively. “Um, Applejack is a fantastic cook and told funny stories over dinner. We were such a great family together! Neither one of Big Mac’s sisters heard how well we sang together in the basement!”

Uh oh, Aria thought. There’s something very wrong here. Sonata’s avoiding a straight answer. Aloud, she asked, “Sonata, did you think that the Apples are just being nice to you because you’re their guest and because you’re so good at helping with the chores? You’re not part of their family.”

“Not yet!” Sonata giggled. “But anything can happen once Adagio is dethroned.”

“Listen to yourself, Sonata! Slow down!” hissed Aria, hoping that Applejack couldn’t hear Sonata.

Sonata seemed confused and a bit hurt. She replied, “What do you mean? Now that I can sing again, I just know I can make Big Mac help us stop Adagio. Once there’s a new princess, life will be so easy for the Apples!”

Aria grabbed Sonata by both shoulders and angrily whispered to her, “Dammit, Sonata, haven’t you been listening and watching Sunset Shimmer? She has guided us to better decisions, but the decisions are ours to make. This talk of ‘making Big Mac help us’ sounds too much like Adagio and the old me for comfort. Are you in love with him?”

Sonata twirled her blue hair around a finger and looked off into space. She stammered, “Umm, maybe?”

Aria leaned forward again and asked, “What about the woman in Big Mac’s life that Apple Bloom told you about?”

“What about her?” Sonata Dusk frowned.

“Sonata, what I’m trying to tell you is that Sunset Shimmer nursed you back to health and showed you ways to help others. She trusts you and so do the Apples. Don’t do anything to screw that up! We need to be ready to fight Adagio and our old Master!” advised Aria Blaze.

Sonata extended her blue lower lip and pouted. She said, “I’m making friends and recruiting allies. Big Mac would be incredible in a fight!”

Aria spoke slowly and clearly. “Sonata, I’m worried you’re hatching one of your little plots. If you want Big Mac to help us, ask him and let him make the choice. Manipulating him will cause bad feelings all around. That’s who we were. I don’t want it to be my future. Sunset Shimmer is probably having a bad time with Rarity inside because she messed with others’ feelings. Let’s learn from her example and save us both the heartache and pain.”

Before Sonata could muster a reply, Pinkie Pie looked at her watch and gasped. Pinkie shrieked, “It’s time! I need to go fetch Rarity and Sunset Shimmer!”

As Pinkie Pie sprinted past, Aria Blaze looked intently at Sonata Dusk and asked, “Sonata, what really have you learned since the Battle of the Bands?”

“I’m not sure what you mean, Aria,” replied Sonata. She quizzically tilted her head.

Aria sighed. “I’ll tell you the lessons I learned from my dream and from watching you, Adagio and Sunset Shimmer. I learned that we were wrong. What we thought was good and evil has been turned on its head. I thought serving the Empire and Leviathan was a positive thing and that relieving other beings of their ability to choose was a comfort to them. Sonata, that’s an evil path. I’ll never act that way again. I don’t want to see you disappear back into the darkness because of love, or jealousy, or because you thought it would be fun. Even though our voices aren’t what they were, we have to find other ways to help them defeat the Master!”

“This is all so confusing,” Sonata meekly replied. “I’m not sure what to do.”

At the distant school entrance, Pinkie Pie was nearly knocked over by Rarity, who rapidly walked directly to the student parking lot.

Aria gave Sonata’s shoulder a sisterly squeeze. “I have faith that something will happen that will make you see all of this clearly. I truly believe that you’ll make the correct choice, Sonata.”

To Sunset Shimmer’s relief, there was no time for the group to ask her about Rarity’s hasty departure. Sunset Shimmer, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Sonata Dusk and Aria Blaze gathered just in time to see the mirror-smooth marble base of the Canterlot High School statue become liquid and take on a third dimension. The morning mist’s slow metamorphosis from gray to white was the only indication that dawn had occurred.

The portal rippled and a tall figure stepped through. Slicked-back black hair was short in the front, but grew long and wild about the man’s shoulders. A long white goatee sprouted from his chin. Crimson eyes gazed forth from eyeballs that were tinged with yellow. The being’s sardonic smile revealed one canine that was sharper and longer than it should have been. The skin of his face and hands were light gray in color.

The new arrival wore a plaid sport coat over a paisley shirt and striped dress pants. The only hint of normalcy in his clothing was a gorgeous lapel pin of a pale yellow butterfly, accented with pink and teal jewels. Over the top of his ensemble, he was wearing a backpack that was filled to bursting that he immediately removed and set down on the ground. A wooden branch extended a significant distance out of the backpack’s main compartment.

“Greetings, salutations, felicitations and palpatations!” the figure said in a deep voice. He looked down at his clothing and fingered the jacket’s lapel with a smile. “I have two legs, you have two legs, everybody has two legs!”

The new arrival smirked and snapped his fingers, but nothing happened. He frowned, then concentrated intently and snapped his fingers again. A single peppermint candy appeared in a flash of light and fell to the ground.

Sunset Shimmer asked impatiently, “Discord, I presume?”

Discord silently asked for a moment by extending an index finger. He then reached into his jacket with his right hand. Flinging forward his arm, a shower of peppermint candies finally burst forth. Pinkie Pie instinctively leapt forward to fill her pockets with the magically-created sugar.

“So that’s how it works!” Discord exclaimed. A sarcastic smirk returned to his face. “It’s been so long since I had to manage chaos with this sort of body. And yes, I am Discord, Champion of Friendship, Chosen of Twilight Sparkle, Spirit of Chaos and Mixologist of Magic reporting for duty!”

The mismatched suit disappeared for a moment, replaced with a coverall-like garment that was a dark red through the chest and sleeves, but black everywhere else. A silver replica of Twilight Sparkle’s six-pointed star was pinned to Discord’s left breast. Four tiny butterflies adorned Discord’s right collar as he dropped into a deep bow.

“Twilight sent you to help Sunset Shimmer?” asked Applejack, raising a suspicious eyebrow.

A flash of white light came from Discord. Suddenly, he was back in his original clothing, but was wearing the farmgirl’s hat. “Well, you all did, technically, or at least your equine counterparts did. Robert’s Rules and all that,” he said.

Sunset Shimmer stepped forward and handed Applejack’s hat back to her. Her eyebrows lowered threateningly as Sunset asked Discord, “Don’t you think you should tone it down a bit?”

Discord showed no signs of backing off of his chaotic comedy act. “You must be Sunset Shimmer. The hair is a dead giveaway. The princess sends her regards!” The Spirit of Chaos’ skin turned light purple and his hair transformed into an imitation of Twilight’s mane. He walked forward and gave Sunset Shimmer’s cheek a mocking pinch.

Rainbow Dash stepped forward and gave the new arrival a warning poke in the chest with her finger. “Hey, buddy, just what the hell do you think you’re doing?”

Discord’s red eyes rolled. He replied, “Oh, it’s you. Rainbow Dash, I’d recognize that tone in any universe. Well, that’s not the truth. It’s your hair. Better check yourself before you wreck yourself!” He tapped Rainbow Dash’s shoulder and she was instantly encased in bubble wrap from the neck down. Just as she was about to lose her balance and fall, Discord touched her again and the plastic disappeared.

Pinkie Pie groaned. “Aw, come on, Discord! I wanted to pop the bubbles.”

Discord laughed uproariously. “Is it a bubble you want, Pinkie Pie? Hmmm, let’s see what I can do to make you float away quietly for a while.” He grinned mischievously and reached out his hand to touch her.

“You stop that right now!” shouted Fluttershy’s soft, firm voice.

Upon hearing Fluttershy’s voice, everything immediately returned to normal, or as normal as was possible under the circumstances. Discord’s facial expression immediately changed from amused to shocked and finally to guilty. He looked at each of the seven faces in turn, finishing by looking into Fluttershy’s angry teal eyes.

Fluttershy’s displeasure was palpable. “I don’t know who you think you are or how much magic you have, but you have no right to make fun of my friends this way. If you can’t play nice, then Sunset Shimmer should tell Twilight that we’re sending you back,” she declared.

“My dear Fluttershy, you are truly a constant across worlds. But, didn’t Twilight Sparkle give you some idea of what to expect from me?” asked Discord, who then sniggered into his hand.

“I read every word that Twilight Sparkle wrote to Sunny. Every word.” Fluttershy pointed accusingly at Discord. “Oh, she stuck to the facts and gave you the benefit of the doubt. But you’d better remember that you’re just meeting us for the first time. By being mean to my friends, you’re messing up that clean slate you had when you came through the portal.”

The Spirit of Chaos hung his head in shame. “I’m sorry, Fluttershy. My excitement got the best of me.” He touched his lapel pin, it took flight around his head and settled back into its normal place.

The gratuitous magical display touched a nerve with Fluttershy. She stepped forward and said angrily, “If you think I’m going to cut you any slack because of that pin,” Fluttershy pointed at the butterfly on Discord’s lapel with an angry jab of her finger, “you’ve got another thing coming, buster! You’ll do what Sunset Shimmer tells you to do and help us all out of this mess!”

Discord straightened himself up and looked at each of the girls in turn, starting with Fluttershy. He said, “I’m not sure what to say about the fact that you are all just a little bit different from the ponies I know in Equestria. I am deeply sorry for getting off on the wrong foot, claw, hoof and wing. We’ll all have to give a little bit, it seems, but you’ve made it clear I need to go first. Let’s just say that I’ve had a recent and dramatic shift in perspective, not unlike your new songbird friends.” He gestured to Sonata and Aria.

Sunset Shimmer took charge of the situation once again. She asked, “Why don’t you tell us what you mean without the riddles, Discord?”

Discord nodded admiringly at Sunset Shimmer. He replied, “Twilight was right to trust you, Sunset Shimmer.” The Spirit of Chaos continued. “I was once an emperor. I was frequently a prisoner. In my home, I have powers to reshape reality, powers that are beyond your minds to comprehend. But, that home is barred to me because I am on probation. I committed a horrible betrayal that Princess Smartypants may yet tell you all about. But, I was betrayed in turn and robbed of all my magical abilities for a time. So, I volunteered to come here to try to make up for all that I have done wrong.”

Sunset made an imploring gesture. “We all need your help. I need your experience in crafting magical items. We need your knowledge of our enemy. Most of all, we need your cooperation without double-speak and riddles.” Sunset Shimmer smiled and added, “But, it can still be fun for all of us as long as we win.”

Discord gave Sunset Shimmer an exaggerated salute, his hand smacking against a shiny silver military helmet that suddenly appeared on his head. The Spirit of Chaos rolled his eyes and said, “Ma’am, yes, ma’am! Where’s the forge? Let’s get started so we can vanquish that nasty squid and I can get back to Equestria.”

Sunset Shimmer took advantage of the opening and reached into her jacket. She pulled out Twilight’s letter of recommendation and showed the letter to Fluttershy. Mischievous smiles curled across both their faces.

“Oh, Twilight’s idea is wonderful!” exclaimed Fluttershy.

Sunset Shimmer raised an eyebrow. Her green-blue eyes twinkled with amusement. “Fluttershy, do you think this will keep him out of trouble until it’s time to go to Sweet Apple Acres? Could you please tell Discord what the plan for today is?”

“Of course, Sunny!” Fluttershy took the letter from Sunset Shimmer’s hand and spoke to Discord as if he were one of the animals in her cottage. She said, “Now, Mr. Discord, because Sunset Shimmer won’t be ready to make the magic items for some time yet, we need to give you a cover story for why you’re here. Twilight has recommended you to be a math teacher here at Canterlot High, teaching us something about chaos. We’ll go see Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna to make sure it’s alright. After you’re done teaching and we’re done at school, some of us will go over to Sweet Apple Acres to get started at the forge. Do you have any questions?”

Discord snatched the letter from Fluttershy and scowled. He read intently. The fang in his mouth switched sides five times. Discord traced Twilight’s wax seal with his fingers and frowned. His plaid coat’s tartan alternated through every color of the rainbow. The stripes on his pants swam across the fabric. The Spirit of Chaos’ brow furrowed in anger, and then finally, he threw back his head and roared with laughter.

He said, “Hilarious! It’s about time Twilight Sparkle developed a penchant for mischief. Maybe we’re finally rubbing off on one another!” Discord suddenly sported a mortarboard, complete with tassel, atop his head and exclaimed, “I’ll do it!”

“Then you and I will meet with Principal Celestia,” ordered Sunset Shimmer. “Celestia doesn’t rule here in quite the same way she does in Equestria, but you’ll still need her approval. Discord and I will catch up with the rest of you either at lunch or after school!”

Discord and Sunset Shimmer were seated in uncomfortable chairs in the main office. The administrative assistant clacked away at his keyboard while the two unexpected visitors waited to speak to Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna. Discord continually shifted in his chair, earning sullen looks from Sunset Shimmer. Discord’s red-eyed gaze fell on the newspapers and magazines scattered across the nearby coffee table.

In this body, I have to actually touch something to add chaos to it? thought Discord. Even then, I can only infuse it with a paltry ration. Well played, Moonbutt. I underestimated you. He reached out to grab a magazine.

Sunset Shimmer lightly smacked the back of Discord’s hand. She whispered, “Not here, Discord.”

“But, I’m bored, Sunset Shimmer! I’m not even permitted to read about spring fashion tips for the professional woman? What sort of torture chamber have you brought me to?” Discord replied with exaggerated anguish.

She wrinkled her forehead and replied, “It’s called the principal’s office! You need to be more patient. Haven’t you ever had to wait for an audience with our Celestia?”

The administrative assistant paused his typing and eyed the pair suspiciously. He placed his index finger to his lips, silently ordering them to quiet down.

Discord sheepishly whispered, “Well, not really. I just happen to show up whenever and wherever the desire strikes.” He stroked his white goatee. “That’s not the right way to do it here, is it?”

Sunset Shimmer sighed and answered quietly, “Until we leave this office and you have permission to teach here for a few days, you should be asking yourself one simple question: What would Fluttershy do? Aside from hiding under the coffee table, her example is probably better than anything you’re thinking of right now!”

Discord’s lapel pin crawled from the left side of his jacket to the right side and fixed itself in place. He waggled his eyebrows and reached for another magazine. “Fine. But are you sure I can’t read about how to improve my standardized test scores or how I might drop three dress sizes in two weeks?”

Before Sunset Shimmer could rebuke Discord again, the door to Principal Celestia’s inner office opened. While somewhat less regal than her royal Equestrian counterpart, Principal Celestia was an unnaturally tall, strikingly beautiful woman of indeterminate age. Her perfectly coiffed, multicolored pastel hair fell about the shoulders of a bright yellow suit jacket. A large pin of a rayed sun, as usual, was affixed to the left lapel.

Celestia’s alabaster face displayed a flat, judicious expression. She narrowed her lavender eyes suspiciously and examined Discord and Sunset Shimmer carefully before speaking. “Sunset Shimmer, you and Professor Discord may come in.”

They entered, and Principal Celestia motioned the pair to sit in two chairs in front of her large desk. Celestia sat in her chair and looked up at her sister. Vice Principal Luna set Princess Twilight’s letter of recommendation on Celestia’s desk and pointed to the elaborate royal seal with a gray-blue finger. Though the family resemblance was often difficult to spot, the two sisters had identically displeased facial expressions. Celestia and Luna both crossed their arms and waited for Sunset Shimmer to speak.

“I’ll tell you as much of the truth as I am able,” said Sunset with a deep sigh.

Luna was genuinely angry. “That would be an excellent start. I won’t have you putting your classmates in danger, ruining their education or putting this school’s reputation at risk.”

Discord opened his mouth to speak. Celestia pointed at him and forestalled any comment by saying, “You’ll get your chance soon enough, sir.” Discord gulped and remained silent.

Sunset Shimmer earnestly summarized the situation for Celestia and Luna. “Discord is from the same world as Twilight Sparkle and the Dazzlings. Twilight sent him because she knows of a new danger threatening CHS, and he is uniquely able to help end the danger. His presence in the classroom would speed up the process, even though his entire educational resume is a fabrication. Once the danger has passed, he’ll return and report to Twilight.”

Luna nodded at Celestia, then said, “I’m glad you admitted that Twilight’s letter contained falsehoods. Selecting the truthful choice allows us to honestly evaluate your request.”

Sunset Shimmer spread her arms wide. She asked, “Is it out of line to say that you sort of owe me one? If not me, then you certainly owe Twilight Sparkle. The Dazzlings got to you first, after all.”

Discord covered his mouth to hide his facial expression, but his red eyes held a hint of fear. Luna’s eyes narrowed and her dark lips frowned disapprovingly. Celestia held up a hand to calm her sister.

The principal said, “Of course, we could have done much more to see the danger that Adagio posed, and you have earned a bit of latitude.”

Discord looked at Sunset Shimmer expectantly. One of his eyes was suddenly covered with a pirate’s eye patch that disappeared the moment it was noticed.

Sunset Shimmer blinked in surprise. She returned her focus to Principal Celestia and asked, “So you’ll let him teach for a few days, then?”

“Balanced Equation has been asking me for some time off for a while, but I have had trouble finding a suitable substitute,” explained Celestia. “Professor Discord, if you can show me that you can cover advanced mathematics concepts, up to and including differential calculus, you may consider yourself hired.”

Discord stood and cleared his throat. He bowed deferentially and asked, “Principal Celestia, may I use your board to display my teaching acumen and a lifetime’s worth of knowledge?”

Celestia smiled. She handed Discord a dry-erase marker and the show began.

Fifteen minutes later, diagrams, equations, Greek letters, and odd illustrations filled every erasable surface in the office. Luna grudgingly handed Discord a classroom key.

Celestia positively beamed at Canterlot High School’s newest substitute teacher. She warmly clasped his gray hand in both of her white ones and said, “I never expected to learn so much about ‘The Butterfly Effect’ this morning, Discord. Good luck today. I am curious to learn what your students will make of your innovative teaching methods and advanced concepts. Luna, could you please give Balanced Equation a call and let him know that he can take the next few days off?”

“Of course, sister,” answered Luna simply.

“Please excuse us, Sunset Shimmer. We have to finish getting ready for the school day,” said Celestia, dismissing her and Discord.

As Discord shouldered the heavy backpack in the outer office, Sunset Shimmer hissed, “Butterfly Effect? Is this some trick you’re playing on Fluttershy? What are you up to?”

The Spirit of Chaos innocently replied, “Nothing at all! Haven’t you heard the theory that if a butterfly flaps its wings in Vanhoover it will affect the weather in Manehattan?”

“It sounds like a bunch of horseapples to me,” replied Sunset Shimmer disdainfully.

“So says the apprentice artificer. If we are to work together, you must embrace a little more of the chaotic world around you and open your mind to obscure possibilities. Isn’t magic making the very improbable into reality?” Discord retorted.

Discord opened the door and nearly collided with another teacher.

Sunset Shimmer cried, “Oh, Ms. Raven, I’m so sorry! Professor Discord didn’t see you!”

The tall, slender woman ignored Sunset Shimmer and looked Discord over from head to toe. Discord was performing a similar appraisal of Raven, raising his eyebrows and tilting his head to the side. Students unconsciously gave the two teachers a wide berth in the hallway.

Discord spoke first. “Ms. Raven, is it? I’m perfectly charmed, though I can’t escape the feeling that I know you from somewhere.”

“Déjà vu is a common phenomenon in literature, but quite rare in real life,” replied Raven. She folded her arms across her chest. “I would certainly remember an encounter with such a unique personage such as yourself.” Her sweeping gesture took in Discord’s flamboyant clothing and unusual appearance.

Sunset Shimmer’s head began to itch. Her instincts were telling her to run and hide, but she watched the wordplay take place between the two teachers.

“Well, then perhaps my memory will kick in later. I am morbidly curious why I thought I knew you.” Discord pressed both his hands over his heart, stacking one atop the other.

Raven pursed her lips and stared at Discord with her flat, black eyes. “As am I. My mind is as blank as a statue.”

Discord decided that this had gone on long enough. He cheerfully said, “Have a pleasant day, Ms. Raven.”

“Good luck with your first day, Mr. Discord. I hope all your calamities are manageable,” replied Raven as she walked away.

Sunset Shimmer was still having trouble processing what she had just witnessed. She couldn’t ignore the near-crackle of magical resonance in the hallway, but couldn’t explain it either. So, she inelegantly reached out for the easiest source of knowledge.

“What the he…” Sunset Shimmer stopped herself and rephrased her question to make it more appropriate for a student addressing a teacher. “Professor Discord, could you please tell me what just happened?”

Discord motioned for Sunset Shimmer to follow him through the throng of students. They entered his assigned classroom and the Spirit of Chaos triple-checked that the room was empty. He placed his hand on Sunset Shimmer’s shoulder and looked her in the eyes. Sunset Shimmer was struck by the intensity of the crimson gaze, which contrasted violently with the being’s previous mischief.

Discord intoned gravely, “Princesses Luna and Twilight were right and I was wrong. We are indeed in serious danger. Tell me, have you found anything dead recently? Something small and weak, but there’s no reason for it to have been killed?”

Sunset Shimmer gulped and felt her stomach flutter. She answered, “Yes, at the aquarium where the Sirens used to have a hideout.”

“Your new friend, the grouchy Siren with the purple-skin, is right to scowl all the time and to pace with impatience. Our time is running out,” said Discord as the first students entered the room.

“What will you do now?” asked Sunset Shimmer, attempting to conceal her worry.

Discord smirked and transformed his clothes into a tweed suit with elbow patches. He looked through thick wire-rimmed spectacles, smiled at Sunset Shimmer and said, “I’ll put on a mathematical exhibition to help my mind figure out how to best employ the goodies in that backpack! Multitasking is my chaotic contribution to productivity. Your classmates won’t know what hit them.”

“I feel safer already,” replied Sunset Shimmer, rolling her eyes.

As students filed into the classroom, Discord looked over the top of his spectacles and gave Sunset Shimmer one last ominous response.

“I don’t feel safe and neither should you.”

Author's Note

Happy Holidays to one and all! I was unable to infinitely maintain a 7,000-word-per-week pace, so I appreciate your patience as this chapter took shape. I would like to thank Dane of Celestia one more time for creating this story’s new, permanent cover art, since it’s the first installment published since its completion. I’m proud to share Three of Destiny with all that choose to invest their time in reading this story.

I hope that you all enjoyed Discord’s arrival at CHS! I am grateful to those that helped me prepare this chapter for publishing – some of whom will never read the story. I look forward to reading your feedback and I’m indebted to those that (correctly) told me, “You need to completely rewrite this scene.”

Work on Chapter 12 has already begun. In the meantime, please accept my best wishes for a joyous holiday season and a safe, prosperous 2015!

Chapter Twelve

Every decision you make comes with a price, Adagio. I have made a choice that will ensure the supremacy of my line for centuries! But it comes with a sacrifice. Would you like to know what price I am willing to pay, my ambitious daughter?

Adagio Dazzle’s eyes snapped open. Sunlight filtered through the last vestiges of the morning fog that had enveloped Canterlot after the thunderstorm. Adagio groaned, stretched and blinked. Slowly, the sumptuous duvet and matching black satin sheets on Shrieking Raven’s guest bed came into focus.

“What a vivid dream,” Adagio said to herself, brushing her disheveled orange curls out of her face. She flexed her fingers and shook her hand, trying to rid herself of the pins-and-needles sensation in her fingertips.

The gray morning light trickled through gauzy curtains, illuminating the sizable and well-appointed guest suite. Raven’s guests were treated to a king-sized bed, a complete bathroom, two bureaus, a closet and a small sitting area. The décor was a striking contrast between black and white, including the expensive marble flooring in the bathroom and the room’s artwork. The door leading to the rest of Raven’s apartment was cracked open.

Adagio, aided by the slick sheets, began to slide out of the large bed. She clicked her tongue in her dry mouth and blinked rapidly in an attempt to clear her head. Adagio’s bare feet sank slowly into the thick carpeting, followed by the rest of her.

“What in the Maelstrom’s Eye is wrong with me?” Adagio asked herself. “I feel like how Sonata looks after she has too much to drink. But, I only drank water and…”

She barely remembered the delicious cinnamon taste of Shrieking Raven’s tea. Adagio pulled herself to her feet and frowned in mingled anger and frustration.

I accepted and drank what was handed to me by a creature that is impervious to poisons because it’s already dead. This world and its citizens have made me soft. Aria would never have let me make such a stupid mistake, she thought.

Adagio’s frown deepened to a scowl as she looked at herself in the bathroom mirror. Since being surprised in her own lair, she could never tell whether Shrieking Raven was mocking, using or praising her. Gazing at her reflection, the Siren found herself dressed in a long, white nightgown. The color did not suit her and the style made her appear to be a little girl.

Adagio had obviously slept roughly despite Raven’s alchemy because her long curls were hopelessly snarled. The overall impression was that of an angry orange-haired Medusa instead of an exiled princess. Crossing her arms over her chest, Adagio decided that Raven had decided to mock her. The banshee’s attention to fine detail was too well-developed to make this sort of mistake without intending a deliberate insult.

Adagio, not even your singing could make people do what you tell them until you fix that crazy hair! I’ll help you with the tangles! Adagio could hear Sonata’s voice in her head as she completed her assessment of her unkempt appearance.

The Siren closed and locked the bathroom door. She turned on the shower and let steam fill the bathroom. The cloud above the marble floor mimicked the fog in Adagio’s brain. She disapprovingly tossed the nightgown away and immersed herself in the hot water. As the rivulets ran from head to toe, Adagio began to recall the events of last night. The memories were dim because of the potion that Raven had slipped her, but they would not have come forth at all without the water:

“…You will take your rightful place as Queen of the reborn Aquastrian Empire,” said Raven. “This, my dear, is you,” she said, holding up a black rook. “The king is your Master.”

Adagio’s lips twisted into a cruel smile as the hot water sprayed across her face. She said to herself, “I’ll bet you didn’t think I could remember even this much, Shrieking Raven.” The Siren focused her mind while cleaning her body. She recalled a bit more of the words Raven said over the chessboard:

“You will have to give him tribute in the fashion of other Queens from the past.” Raven placed three pawns on the chessboard. “By consuming three young females, Leviathan will immediately regain much of his former power.”

Adagio began to sing the melody of one of the songs she had composed for the recent Battle of the Bands. Her voice strained and cracked with the lingering aftereffects of the Rainbooms’ magical assault. Despite the dissonance, Adagio instinctively raised her voice to celebrate her minor triumph over Raven’s tea. It was the first triumph of any kind she had enjoyed for nearly a week, so she permitted herself the off-key indulgence.

Adagio shut off the water, dried off and slipped on a terrycloth bathrobe. She retrieved several combs and hairbrushes and began the long chore of removing the tangles from her billowing hair. Still humming discordantly, Adagio’s mind was formulating ways to press her tiny advantage. She continued to comb out the tangles slowly and methodically, the tempo befitting her name.

Adagio commented to her reflection. “Raven underestimates your ability to resist her. She is impatient, despite having all the time in the world. Why would she rush something so important?”

She reached for the hair dryer. As the hot air evaporated the water trapped in her hair, Adagio contemplated Shrieking Raven’s magical abilities.

Adagio frowned and said to her reflection, “Her shriek knocked you to your knees. That has been the only thing that’s truly surprised her so far. What did she say?” She made a mocking impression of Shrieking Raven’s raspy banshee voice. “’Curious. The servants of Leviathan should be immune to my magic.’”

Adagio dressed in one of the outfits she had bought at Rarity’s boutique and paced the carpet of the guest suite for several minutes. Lost in thought, she nearly tripped over the bedroll she had used in the bowels of the aquarium. Her magenta eyes lit up and she rummaged through her belongings. She retrieved a wooden box and a portfolio-sized pad of thick parchment paper. Adagio carefully opened the box and took out several paint brushes and a dozen vials of paint. Her orange eyebrows came together in concentration as she set to work. Memories of her mother flickered through her mind:

Do not show fear, even though Clan Sahuagin is powerful. We can use their pride against them but must not engage them in battle, lest they defeat us. Trick their males into starting a fight with Clan Locathah’s diplomat. War will begin as a result, a war we must encourage. The ensuing battle will leave them both weak and I will then be able to defeat both their armies to keep our people safe.

For the first time in a thousand years, Adagio’s painting formed a mermare instead of a landscape. She started with vicious golden eyes, narrowed with suspicion and calculation:

Daughter, we are doing these lesser beings a favor. We eliminate their choices and the troubles that go with them. It is our duty to protect the Empire and keep it safe for your daughters.

The mermare’s crimson mane and fins were fierce and regal. The silver scales of her muzzle, showing a jaw clenched with determination, seemed to glitter from the paper due to Adagio’s delicate brushwork. The figure was simultaneously beautiful and terrifying, inspiring awe and obedience, but never love:

Would you like to know what price I am willing to pay, my ambitious daughter? I will sacrifice you to the Master and see you transformed into a Siren. You will wage war upon the Sun Princess. And then, once we are victorious in the world above, we will turn on Leviathan and seize his immortality, for I have learned the Master’s True Name. This is my only chance to escape!

“You always spoke to me of duty to the Empire and safety for my future daughters. Why did you choose that time to speak of escape?” asked Adagio, using almost the same words as she did long ago. As she finished the hasty painting of Queen Blinding Dazzle, she added, “It was the only time I ever saw her afraid. Why do I think of her now?”

She balanced the thick piece of paper on an opened bureau drawer to let it dry.

Adagio snapped her fingers as an idea struck her. “Raven? Are you here, Raven?” she called. The silence endured and Adagio smiled.

Adagio unpacked the rest of her bedroll and knapsack, and then took an inventory. She set the items she had stolen from Sunset Shimmer on one of the bureaus. Reaching deep into the bag, her fingers closed around the nondescript compact that tingled with magical energy.

“Your toy needs to show me something useful, Sunset Shimmer,” murmured Adagio hopefully as she focused her concentration upon the magical scrying device. The Canterlot throne room appeared and Adagio intently watched as Princess Luna’s arrival was announced by the castle herald.

“Fierce Vigil, please clear the throne room. Princess Luna and I have a serious matter to discuss in private. Audiences are cancelled for the remainder of the morning.” Princess Celestia's voice stayed pleasant but her eyes, fixed on her sister as she entered, betrayed deep concern.

Princess Luna held herself tall and returned her sister’s gaze with confidence. Despite the cordial wordplay, the sudden shift in tone caused the courtiers present to beat a hasty retreat.

In moments, only the members of the Princesses’ personal guards remained in the throne room. Responding to a subtle gesture from the Sun Princess, the guards departed their post. The ornate double doors clicked shut, leaving only the royal sisters in the cavernous chamber.

Princess Luna gestured with a hoof towards Princess Celestia, who still sat on her throne. “Sister, I see that you’re about to admonish me. Why is that? I had every right to assist and advise Twilight Sparkle, especially since she required aid during the night. Am I truly the source of your consternation?”

Celestia took wing from the elevated dais and landed gently in the center of the throne room. Her lavender eyes were wide with worry and her golden-shod hoof pointed at Luna. “Possibly. Could you please explain to me why you permitted Twilight to send Discord through the portal?”

The Princess of the Night took a deep breath and replied, “Twilight Sparkle should be commended for taking charge of the portal and all Equestrian dealings occurring on the other side. We had a discussion that nearly became an argument whilst I was in Ponyville. Her reactions and decisions since we spoke gave me increased confidence in her judgment, especially with regard to Sunset Shimmer.” Luna finished steadily and waited patiently for Celestia’s reaction.

“Your steadfast support for Twilight has calmed me, but still doesn’t explain why you gave Discord leave to help Sunset Shimmer,” said Celestia. Her brow furrowed and she shook her head. “This has all happened so quickly. She needed more time to prepare herself before being entrusted with these additional responsibilities and more practice making these sorts of decisions. It’s not what I wanted for her, at least not yet.”

Luna took a step towards her sister. She spread her forehooves wide in a sympathetic gesture. “Tia, the Tree of Harmony gave her a castle, which supersedes any authority we have. While I am also disappointed that we were not consulted beforehand, I recommend that you move past that fact. First, we were imprisoned in Tartarus at that critical moment. Second, and linked to our current crisis, I ask you to remember that Twilight’s key to the Tree’s gift, the final key, was given to her by Discord himself.”

“I still believe that Fluttershy remains central to Discord’s reform, Luna. But, I concede that Twilight’s actions during the battle with Tirek have done much to bind the Spirit of Chaos to her and to us,” replied Celestia thoughtfully.

Luna rested her chin on her hoof and then glided to the base of the stained glass window that commemorated Twilight Sparkle and the other Element Bearers’ victory over Discord.

Luna gestured at the scene with a wing. “Discord, by his very nature, will never be truly bound by any of us. Twilight’s trust in him, despite his betrayals, will make him as reliable of an ally as we could ever hope. This is, of course, provided he guides Sunset Shimmer to victory. I agree with Twilight in that Discord is the only one with the skill, knowledge and, oddly enough, the temperament to assist her with her craft.” She smiled sadly at the Sun Princess. “I trust that you’re not considering rash action to help your former student.”

Celestia returned her sister’s sad smile. “Of course I wouldn’t take such a risk, Luna. It’s merely a passing thought. At any rate, I still fear that trusting Discord is too much of a gamble. He is far too unpredictable. Twilight’s naiveté may yet cost us much. What shall we do if he and Sunset Shimmer fail?” inquired Princess Celestia, raising an eyebrow.

Closing the distance between the two, Princess Luna stroked her older sister’s cheek with a hoof. “I protect your dreams, too, Tia. Tell me of your nightmare.”

“Of course you knew.” Celestia’s gaze dropped to the ground in embarassment. “It’s taken me too long to get back into the habit of ruling with you once again.” She met Luna’s placid gaze and said, “A restored Leviathan and a recrowned Aquastrian Queen from the Imperial dynasty would result in the death of thousands, enslave thousands more, and almost certainly end the peace that we have kept for a millennium.”

“Get all of it out into the sunlight, sister,” urged Luna.

“War and a long martial mobilization would ruin Twilight Sparkle. With her abilities, she would become a great general and would selflessly defend others, but in her enthusiasm, she would forget that she is destined to be the Princess of Friendship,” finished Celestia sadly.

The Princess of the Night made an imploring gesture. “If you had seen all of the dreams I have observed within the Castle of Friendship, you would have greater faith in Discord. Trust me now, sister. If Twilight’s plan succeeds, it is the best possible outcome. I am confident that Discord and Sunset Shimmer will prove their loyalty. Twilight will show mastery of events on par with yours and war will be avoided. Just think of the possibilities if Discord’s knowledge combines with Sunset Shimmer’s raw magical ability!” Luna pointed a hoof at the stained-glass diagram of the Elements of Harmony.

“Starswirl would have been happy to see this turn of events and your involvement in them,” added Celestia with a smile that conveyed complex emotions.

“Now that I am myself once more, I think of him often,” said Luna, the regret evident in her voice. “The Tree is changing, sister. It grows again. We must grow and change with it. Leviathan is not to be trifled with, even in his weakened, dormant state. I will speak to you of greater dangers and contingency plans in private once you have lowered the sun.”

Celestia embraced Luna and said, “I agree that these are subjects better discussed in our chambers. Now that we understand one another with regard to Discord, let us continue our business. Have the guards re-enter and show in King Leo’s emissary from Aquastria. Senator Crashing Wave is a patient, cheerful seapony, but the spell enabling him to function outside of water will not last forever.”

Luna’s teal eyes took on a stormy hue and inclined toward the ceiling. “Permit me one indulgence, first, Tia. I sense unfriendly eyes.” Princess Luna spread her wings and flew to a distant corner of the throne room. She stared directly at a tiny mirror affixed to the ceiling.

“Luna, what is it?” asked Celestia from below.

Angrily narrowing her tempestuous eyes at the reflective surface, Luna spoke to the mirror more than to Celestia as she called out, “Nothing of consequence, dear sister. I found something that was once regal and magnificent, even in its darkness. Now it is twisted, broken and without a purpose.”

Adagio Dazzle saw the features of the gray-blue muzzle contort themselves in vengeful anger. The fury from the stormy gaze of the Princess of the Night was palpable. Adagio’s pulse quickened and her stomach swam. She closed Sunset Shimmer’s magical compact with a sharp click.

She thought, Not only did the younger alicorn survive, but she knows!

Adagio’s quick mind, aided by her political acumen, processed the conversation she had overheard between the two Princesses. Soon, her short breaths of terror calmed and her fear began to transform into fury at the awful truth that Celestia’s brief comment had revealed.

A king on my mother’s throne! The throne that is now mine! A male seapony emissary holding a title common to a republic or a democracy! I can’t abide this disaster. Mother, I have failed you and all mermares! Adagio's internal dialogue was despondent.

Adagio removed her elaborate, five-spiked hair ornament in both hands and pressed hidden switches on both sides. The hair clip’s sides extended and the object took on a curve that ran through a half-circle. The spikes remained centered on the circle’s arc. She walked to the guest bathroom and ran the item beneath the faucet’s hot water. Cheap paint ran down the drain. Adagio dried the ornament and placed it upon her head.

The trendy hair ornament had been transformed into an obsidian tiara, adorned by five white-gold spikes. Adagio briefly modeled the royal device, which had endured transformation and centuries of exile with its owner.

Adagio magenta eyes flashed with anger. With a fierce facial expression that was nearly identical to the one she painted on her mother’s portrait, Adagio said to her reflection, “I’ll show that alicorn what’s twisted and broken!” She frowned in frustration and added, “But, she is right about at least one thing being damaged. The crown’s ability to help me speak with the Master hasn’t worked for many years.”

She thought, It is Aquastria’s duty to serve me, but my duty to rule. By doing so, I protect my subjects.

Adagio looked into the living room and saw the chessboard still sitting on the table in the living room. The pieces had been returned to their classic starting position. She walked rapidly around the living room, dining room, and kitchen.

She found a handwritten note on the dining room table that was long on flowery praise, but essentially told the Siren that she had gone to work at the high school, there was untainted food in the refrigerator and that she was to relax without attempting to open any locked doors in the apartment. The intricate wordplay made it politely clear that Adagio was expected to stay in Raven’s home for the day and that disobedience would result in severe consequences. The Siren disdainfully folded the note in half and placed it back on the table.

“But I think that I can make use of this opportunity, contrary to Raven’s wishes,” said Adagio, striding boldly to the chessboard.

“The Empire must be restored and only He Who Swims in Darkness can help me reclaim it. It seems you have limited my options, Raven, but a cornered adversary is often a dangerous and unpredictable enemy. It’s time to apply my mother’s lessons,” Adagio said, rearranging the pieces on the board. “Either I find Aria and Sonata and flee, or I go along with your plan to wake the Master. This plan is obviously a trap, which is why it is the only choice that makes sense.”

Adagio Dazzle picked up a white pawn and danced it forward square by square. “Shrieking Raven, you think of me as just another piece on the board. What you are forgetting about this game is that if you allow a pawn to make it all the way to the eighth square, it will become powerful!” She replaced the white pawn with the white queen.

She continued. “Once I am restored, my subjects will return to their Queen, dramatically improving my position.” Adagio placed a white knight and a white rook next to the queen, deep in the black player’s territory.

She brought three white pawns close to the queen. Adagio tipped each of them over and cruelly said, “It’s too bad that grand games require sacrifice to earn victory.”

Adagio folded her tiara back into a spiked hair-ornament that held back her voluminous curls. She then unearthed the disposable cell phone she had stolen from Sunset Shimmer. Smiling viciously, Adagio formulated her plan.

She thought, Let Shrieking Raven think she holds the upper hand. I’ll go forward with her ritual, but I will betray and destroy her the moment that Leviathan regains his power, because I will then be immune to her magic scream. Like that boastful illusionist with the white hair, I still have plenty of tricks up my sleeve. But one thing is clear; the three girls that Raven mentioned are surely doomed. No matter what happens, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom must die to feed the Master.

During the confusion following Discord’s arrival, Sonata Dusk quietly slipped away from the others and made her way through the empty halls to the Canterlot High School Library. The building had begun to come to life for the day, but few teachers had arrived. Sonata knew this was the only time she’d be able to gather information without interference. Her feet kept moving forward, despite a pitched battle inside her mind:

A cheerful, sunny voice cried, Sonata, you shouldn’t to this! Let them be happy.

But, I need him! Big Macintosh will be a protector to me as Aria was to Adagio and so much more. He will also be my general and my consort, intoned a covetous, cruel voice.

Sonata’s conscience protested. Listen to yourself! You’ll ruin all that you love about him even as he helps you seize the crown. He’s a farmer with a noble heart, not a general.

He deserves better than toiling in the mud for the rest of his life. All of the Apples deserve more and I will give it to them whether they want it or not, countered Sonata’s greed and ambition.

The bright voice despaired. Sunset Shimmer was right. Aria was right. Let Big Macintosh make the choice for himself. He is courageous and certain. Tell him the truth!

Sonata sadly came to a decision as she approached Cheerilee’s desk. She whispered to herself, “I’m afraid he would say ‘no.’ I’m too scared to take that chance.” Sonata began her espionage and her forlorn, guilty expression transformed into a mask of concentration.

The trusting librarian hadn’t even locked her desk. Sonata snatched an envelope from the top drawer. Quickly reading, she found that the unopened mail had Cheerilee’s home address on it. Sonata quickly wrote down the address and replaced the envelope.

The teacher’s desk calendar still showed the previous month. Sonata Dusk noted an unusual number of medical appointments on Cheerilee’s schedule, which culminated in the sick time that she had taken during the Battle of the Bands.

“What is she hiding?” Sonata asked herself as she began to carefully examine the contents of the remaining desk drawers. Her lips twisted in a vicious, triumphant smile as she pulled two medical pamphlets from the bottom drawer of Cheerilee’s desk.

“It looks like you won’t be bouncing any purple-haired babies on your knee any time soon, Big Macintosh,” said Sonata to herself. She sneered at crayon-crafted artwork on the edge of the desk. “Cheerilee, it’s now no wonder why you suddenly like the younger children’s pictures so much! Too bad. So sad.”

Despite the comforting pictures of young couples in love on the covers, the titles of the pamphlets told Sonata Dusk everything that she needed to puzzle out the situation. In her blue-tinted fingers, she held medical booklets with titles such as Improving Ovarian Production and Fertility Solutions.

Sonata put each item back in its proper place. Before departing the library, she placed one of the library’s music history books in the center of the desk and left the teacher a short note.

Ms. Cheerilee,

I wanted to return this book to the library. I read it while I was staying at Sweet Apple Acres last night. Thanks for the recommendation, but it certainly didn’t help me conceive any new musical ideas.

Sonata Dusk

Sonata donned her spiked leather bracelets and exited the library, humming softly to herself.

The school bell rang loudly, interrupting Discord in mid-sentence. Most students streamed for the exits as they jabbered about their brilliant, entertaining, and incomprehensible new instructor. Wiz Kid and Atomic Adam were desperate to continue the lecture and praise the substitute teacher. The classroom’s whiteboards and much of the bulletin board were filled with notes and diagrams that made no sense whatsoever without Discord’s narration.

“Professor Discord, your theories mean that all matter is malleable!” exclaimed Wiz Kid.

Atomic Adam enthusiastically added, “Teleportation and atomic fusion are within our grasp!”

Discord seemed to start each lesson in a classic tweed suit, but concluded each class period in increasingly outlandish clothing. At the close of his fourth class, he was wearing a paisley-patterned radiation suit and had allowed his hair to turn white and wild.

He answered, “Indeed, but don’t forget the universal constants: Eighty-eight miles per hour, the average airspeed of an unladen swallow, and Sunset Shimmer’s foul temper.”

“Professor Discord, please let me escort you to your next obligation,” insisted Sunset Shimmer, stepping forward. After nearly four hours of serving as the Spirit of Chaos’ aide at Principal Celestia’s request, the insanity disguised as high level mathematics had caused her pretty face to be creased by a scowl. Sunset’s green-blue eyes betrayed her frustration with Discord.

The radiation suit disappeared, replaced by his original plaid sport coat, paisley shirt and striped pants. He temporarily added a closed collar with a band of white on it as he said, “But these two want to hear me preach the wonders of Chaos! Who am I to deny their heart’s wish?” Wiz Kid and Atomic Adam were on the verge of tears in their desire to continue speaking with Discord.

“Sorry, guys. I’ll make it up to you somehow, but Discord needs to come with me,” declared Sunset Shimmer. She tried to hasten the process by putting on Discord’s backpack and found she could barely lift it.

“Oh, let me help you, my young apprentice,” said Discord, noticing the girl’s struggle. He grabbed the large stick projecting from the backpack but did nothing else.

“I’m going to the band room to talk with the girls. You should go to the teacher’s lounge for lunch,” she said, burdened by the massive pack.

Discord rolled his red eyes and chuckled, “Oh, no. I absolutely refuse to be alone in this warren of tiny rooms and teenage angst. And, I’m certainly not leaving that pack unattended until we get to the forge. Show me where to go, fearless leader!” Sunset groaned and showed Discord the way to the music rooms.

As they navigated the hallways, Discord gleefully greeted students, faculty, lockers, light fixtures and floor tiles. Sunset Shimmer took laborious steps towards the music room, arriving just before her strength and patience ran out.

Sonata, Applejack and Rainbow Dash rushed to Sunset Shimmer’s aid, helped her remove the magical treasures from her back, and set the bundle carefully on the floor. Discord, immersed in examining the contents of the room, absently placed the bough from the Golden Oak Library on top of the pack.

Pinkie Pie bounded into the room and announced, in a fair impression of Aria Blaze’s grumpy voice, “Aria is not going to leave the art rooms until the mold has finished firing!” She smiled, cheering the mood in the room, and brightly added, “When I asked about bathroom breaks, she started throwing stuff at me. It was great!”

Fluttershy approached Discord, who was tapping on a string bass’ wood exterior. She asked kindly, “Do you play a musical instrument, Discord?”

Hearing the shy girl’s voice, the Spirit of Chaos snapped back to the present. He replied, “I’ve been known to play a mean jazz flute!” He reached into his jacket and produced a silver flute. Discord’s clothing transformed into a burgundy suit and his face suddenly sported a ridiculous moustache. He winked at Fluttershy and caused the flute to trill like a forest songbird.

Sunset Shimmer, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Sonata Dusk, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy all stared at Discord as he played. Pinkie Pie’s jaw fell open.

Sonata helped Pinkie Pie close her mouth and muttered to her, “The Pipes of Pan, indeed.”

Pinkie Pie turned to the blue-haired Siren and replied, “What pan? We don’t cook in this room, silly!”

“You need more stage theater in your life, Pinkie Pie,” replied Sonata with a smile.

Sunset Shimmer smoothed her jacket, took a deep breath, then stepped forward and politely asked, “Could I interrupt the show for a moment, Discord?”

“What? You don’t want to rock out?” replied Discord. He placed a hand on Sunset Shimmer’s shoulder, and her outfit morphed into a glittering, clinging jumpsuit. An outlandish black wig fit poorly on top of her head. Discord laughed and the other girls stifled giggles.

“Enough!” snapped Sunset Shimmer. “This is important.”

Discord snapped the fingers of his other hand and the pandemonium ceased. He gave Fluttershy a beaming smile.

Sunset Shimmer asked Pinkie Pie, “Could you please take Sonata with you to buy a snack?”

“Oh, I have something right here,” she replied, reaching into her pink curls. Before she could finish yanking free a concealed treat, Pinkie Pie noticed Sunset Shimmer take Adagio’s note out of her jacket. Pinkie realized what was about to happen and adapted to Sunset’s plan. “I guess I was wrong! Come on, Sonata, we’ll be back in a few minutes.”

As Pinkie Pie led Sonata Dusk away, Sunset Shimmer paced the room and finally laid the note on one of the room’s tables. She turned both pictures face down and motioned for Applejack and Rainbow Dash to approach.

Fluttershy and Discord stood together on the other side of the room. Sensing that his antics would be unwelcome, he thumbed his lapel pin and asked Fluttershy softly, “What’s happening?”

“Sunset Shimmer is giving them an apology and an explanation. She should have done this a long time ago, but the right time never came. So now Adagio Dazzle has forced it upon her and it’s so much tougher than it should have been,” answered Fluttershy, who sadly shook her head.

Discord’s red eyes met Fluttershy’s turquoise gaze. He said, without a hint of sarcasm, “Fluttershy, trust me when I say that I completely understand. So, tell me, how is Angel Bunny?” He smiled kindly as his eyes lightened to a pink hue and his white goatee spread across his face and turned into a short, snowy beard. Discord reached into his jacket and presented Fluttershy with a small plate holding a few tiny cucumber sandwiches.

At the table, Sunset Shimmer showed Rainbow Dash and Applejack the note from Adagio. After Sunset explained how her heart had descended into darkness and how her situation had become desperate, she turned over the two pictures.

Applejack initially thought, How dare she? First selling stuff to the mob, then blackmailing Rarity’s dad? I’m going to give her a piece of my mind!

She was about to deliver a blistering rebuke to Sunset Shimmer when she felt a tickle, like that of a feather, against her cheek. Applejack paused for a moment. She looked at Sunset Shimmer more closely as she sparred verbally with Rainbow Dash.

“Hold on, I can roll with the money part of this. But, playing tonsil hockey with Rarity’s dad and then demanding cash? Wow, that takes some brass! I don’t know whether to be pissed off or proud of you,” said Rainbow Dash. She was looking at Sunset Shimmer sideways with her head tilted and lips pressed together in concentration.

Applejack noticed Sunset Shimmer’s red-rimmed eyes and examined the remnants of tear streaks on her cheeks. She’s completely done crying for the day. Whatever happened with Rarity drained the whole well, thought Applejack, her initial anger melting away.

Sunset Shimmer’s exasperation was growing as she replied to Rainbow Dash, “I’ve been trying to tell you for months that I’m not that person anymore!”

No, we have to stay together, and this can’t be a time where Rainbow tries to score cheap goals on an open net, Applejack resolved.

“But he was like twenty-five years older than you! And, with you dressed like that, it was totally unfair. He didn’t stand a chance!” responded Rainbow Dash, spreading her arms wide in an exaggerated complaint that was more appropriate for the soccer field than the music room.

Applejack jumped in. “Unfair? Forgive me, Rainbow Dash, but that sounds a little silly coming from the conference leader in penalties last year.” Sunset Shimmer immediately gave a sigh of relief.

“I led the conference in goals, too!” She looked from Applejack’s concerned face to Sunset Shimmer’s ashamed one and added, “Okay, I see your point. Look, I like to be the best in everything I do, and I like to win a little too much.”

“A little?” retorted Applejack.

Rainbow Dash frowned and admitted, “Alright, Applejack, I like to win way too much.” She looked at Sunset Shimmer and continued. “But, when I finally learned how to play tough without playing dirty, I had a lot to answer for.”

“I don’t get it. What do you mean, Rainbow Dash?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

“You have to learn to forgive yourself. I injured one of my opponents with a slide tackle during my sophomore year. I cleaned up my act but still blamed myself and felt awful every time I saw that girl. It took me a long time to apologize and talk it out with her, but I almost went crazy before I got it all off my chest and moved forward with being awesome.”

Sunset Shimmer nodded with understanding. “You’re saying I haven’t gotten over the Fall Formal?”

Rainbow Dash shifted her weight from one foot to another and finally said, “Yep. You need to let go of the Fall Formal and everything that happened before we became friends. Learn from it, but stop dwelling on it. The best example I can come up with is that I’ll never ask the band to play ‘Awesome as I Want to Be’ ever again because I feel terrible about how I almost screwed everything up.”

“It wasn’t just you, sugar cube,” said Applejack.

Rainbow Dash ignored the comment and spoke earnestly to Sunset Shimmer. “What I’m trying to spit out is that what you’re doing for Aria and Sonata is awesome and I’m sorry you were forced into this conversation. But, you have to be able to look at yourself in the mirror before you can put an end to that bad chapter in your past and be the person you should be.”

Sunset Shimmer hugged the athletic girl. “Thanks for understanding and thanks for the advice, Rainbow Dash.” Sunset looked at Applejack and added, “You’ve been awfully quiet. Can I answer any of your questions? Frankly, I was really worried about what you’d think.”

“I just need to think about all this for a while, but I believe that I’ll be just fine,” answered Applejack with a smile. “If I learned anything from the Battle of the Bands, I learned that all of us need to stick together no matter what. If you and I need to talk, I’ll make sure to track you down later. After all, you’re going to need a fair bit of time at the farm!”

Pinkie Pie and Sonata burst through the doors and giggled their way to the center of the room.

From her vantage point, Applejack saw the entire music room and everyone in it. She noticed Sunset Shimmer and Rainbow Dash close to her, with smiles of reconciliation on their faces. Sonata and Pinkie Pie joked with one another in the middle of the room. Discord and Fluttershy had their heads close together in conversation near the drum set. Against the far wall, Applejack noticed Rarity’s lonely keytar in its rack. A chill ran down her spine.

“Girls, I have to go. I’ll meet you at the farm. Dashie, pick up my homework for me,” said Applejack suddenly, adjusting her hat and grabbing her book bag.

“Where are you going? Won’t Big Macintosh freak out when we all show up unannounced?” called Sunset Shimmer, holding up a hand. She raised her voice. “Applejack, stop for a second!”

“Don’t worry about Big Mac. I’ll take care of him in a bit, but right now I have to do something in town. Trust me. It’s a gut feeling sort of thing,” answered Applejack calmly and confidently as she jogged into the hallway.

“Well, at least the van’s big enough to hold everyone.” Fluttershy’s soft voice carried through the suddenly silent room.

“How come all of you get to come and go all the time? My parents never let me out of school!” sulked Pinkie Pie, crossing her arms across her chest.

Observing Pinkie’s complaint, Sunset Shimmer walked to the center of the room. Applejack’s sudden departure had interrupted the conversation between Sonata Dusk and Pinkie Pie. Sonata bit her lip and looked at Sunset Shimmer questioningly. Pinkie continued to pout.

An idea flashed through Sunset Shimmer’s head. She decided to take Discord’s advice on staying in groups to heart. Placing a hand on Pinkie Pie’s shoulder, Sunset suggested, “Why don’t you spend the day keeping watch with Aria? Your Pinkie Sense would alert you both to danger, and I need your help with something while I work on the other mold at Applejack’s house.”

“You need my help?” Pinkie asked quizzically, then grabbed Sonata by both hands and danced around the music room. “She needs my help! Woohoo! Other than entertaining Aria - and she loves me, I just know it - what do you need?”

Sunset Shimmer rummaged in Discord’s pack and retrieved two immense books. She handed them to Pinkie Pie and instructed, “I need you to read these and tell me if you learn anything important. Aria may be able to help you understand the history book a little better.”

“Okie dokie lokie!” answered Pinkie Pie enthusiastically.

“One more thing,” cautioned Sunset Shimmer, who raised an index finger. “Twilight wanted these books back undamaged. They’re very old and irreplaceable. Think you’re up to it?”

Pinkie pantomimed locking the books in a safe, then replied, “You can count on me!”

“Thank you,” said Sunset Shimmer.

As Pinkie Pie retreated out of sight with the books, the girls overheard her saying to herself, “Aria and I are going to have so much fun watching clay harden. I have so much to tell her!”

Discord wiped his face and replaced it with an executioner’s mask. “Sunset Shimmer, I didn’t know that torture was in your repertoire. That grumpy Siren is going to be searching for earmuffs or pointy objects in the next fifteen minutes!” he said, chuckling.

Sunset Shimmer ignored him and turned to the blue-haired Siren. “Sonata, how confident are you that you can get in touch with Adagio?”

Sonata smiled and replied, “Very. But, don’t you have some work to do yet before you’re ready for her?”

“You’re right, but you and I haven’t had a chance to talk for a while. Thanks for volunteering to help us out,” said Sunset Shimmer. “Aria, Fluttershy and I saw some of your things at the aquarium, but it looks like you’ve replaced most of them by now.”

Discord had returned himself to his most common appearance. A smirk graced his face as he listened attentively to the conversation between Sonata Dusk and Sunset Shimmer.

“My twin brother made me a keepsake that I want to get back,” said Sonata mysteriously.

Sunset Shimmer’s eyes grew wide. She warned Sonata, “If you go to the aquarium - and I don’t recommend it - don’t go alone! Discord was very insistent about that.”

“Don’t worry, Sunset Shimmer. I have it all planned out. Besides, I want to stay at Sweet Apple Acres tonight!” finished Sonata confidently.

Discord couldn’t restrain himself any longer. He rubbed his hands over Sonata Dusk’s head and a spray of tiny, glitter-coated hearts and apples burst forth, scattering over her. Sonata’s beaming smile transformed into a mask of confusion.

Sunset Shimmer grinned and helped Sonata Dusk get the glittering pieces of plastic out of her long blue hair. “I’m proud of you, Sonata! I’m so glad that you are happy helping the Apples. I heard from Applejack that you are incredibly fast at getting all of the chores done. We might turn you into a farmer yet!”

Fluttershy, Discord, Sonata Dusk, Sunset Shimmer and Rainbow Dash gathered their belongings and started towards their afternoon obligations.

Sonata frowned nervously at Discord while she brushed the glitter off of her clothes. Turning back to Sunset Shimmer, she finished her conversation with enthusiasm. “I don’t think I’m cut out to be a farmer, Sunset. Still, defeating Adagio and spending time with the Apple Family are the top two things on my agenda!”

The tires on the Apple Family’s pickup truck squealed as Applejack tore out of the pizzeria’s parking lot. Takeout boxes on the passenger seat held three gigantic slices of Manehattan-style cheese pizza. Applejack pressed the limits of the venerable truck’s transmission and acceleration as she wove through Canterlot’s midday traffic. Miraculously, she found a parking spot on the street less than a block from the Carousel Boutique.

Applejack gulped and thought, I hope that a peace offering will get her to see reason. I have a bad feeling of what will happen if she doesn’t come around soon. Rarity’s grudges are like concrete, and I can’t let this one set.

As Applejack opened the door, a small silver bell rang. Elegant Ensemble paused while folding clothes. She finished her work with the current garment, brushed a lock of long, platinum-blonde hair from her face and smiled warmly at Applejack.

“Shouldn’t you be in school?” Elegant Ensemble said in a teasing tone. Her smile disappearing, the proprietor’s blue eyes locked with Applejack’s green gaze. “I’m glad one of you came. We all know that Rarity is often the perfect image of composure until something goes wrong. And whatever happened with Sunset Shimmer has put her in a bad way.”

Applejack took off her hat, smoothed her hair and replaced the Stetson in its proper place on the top of her head. “I hope a gift of pizza will start things off right. I brought a piece for you, if you’d like one.”

“Thank you, Applejack. I’ll accept your caloric therapy with my deepest gratitude.” Elegant Ensemble inclined her head towards the hallway and added, “Good luck up there.”

As she set down the box containing Elegant’s slice of pizza on the sales counter, Applejack was forced to move some items that had yet to be properly inventoried. Her eyes locked upon a large brooch with the design of a rainbow connecting two storm clouds.

She picked up the item and asked, “Elegant, do you mind if I take this upstairs to Rarity? It made me think of something important.”

“I don’t mind at all, Applejack. I know you well enough to be certain that shoplifting is not a concern,” she replied.

Stuffing the pin into her pocket and carefully carrying the two slices of pizza, Applejack ascended the staircase and cocked her head at the sounds of daytime television permeating the entire second floor. Her boots made heavy footfalls as she navigated her way to the den. Applejack poked her head around the doorframe and saw Rarity sprawled out on the couch.

The only trace remaining from this morning’s carefully assembled ensemble was the purple suit jacket tossed across the seat of the recliner. Rarity’s head was concealed by a hooded sweatshirt and her legs were curled up under a blanket. Her mascara had run and she hadn’t taken the time to remove any of her makeup. Applejack rolled her eyes when she noticed that the fashionista was busily devouring a pint of ice cream.

“Alright, sugar cube, it’s time to put the ice cream down and sit up,” announced Applejack.

Rarity jumped, nearly dropping the spoon at the unexpected voice. She took one more bite. “Why should I? Evidently, Sunset Shimmer prefers poaching married men and draining bank accounts over apologizing to her friends.”

“You know that’s not true,” replied Applejack, swinging Rarity’s feet to the floor and sitting on the other end of the couch.

Rarity set the half-empty container on the coffee table, placed the back of her hand on her forehead and moaned, “But, with my own father, Applejack! I was falling for Sunset Shimmer and now I can’t face her or the humiliation!”

Applejack shook her head. “Dial down the drama, Rarity. This is me you’re talking to, not Fluttershy or Pinkie Pie. I’m not exactly happy about what she did, either.”

“You’re not? Which part is worse for you? Is it the cloying decay of betrayal or the foul stench of greed?” Rarity sat up.

“Eat some pizza to smother your sorrow. It’s your favorite,” said Applejack, patiently pushing one of the boxes towards the dramatic fashion designer.

“Applejack, that’s so very thoughtful! Thank you!” said Rarity, folding the huge slice in half and taking a bite.

“While your mouth’s full, think about this, Rarity. I’m convinced that Twilight brought us all together for a reason. At first, I thought it was just to defeat Sunset Shimmer, but as she changed, so did the way I thought about all of us – all seven of us.” Applejack paused, set her hat on the table and opened her own slice of pizza.

“What’s that?” said Rarity. She wiped the grease off her face with a napkin.

Applejack said, “There are two things that I came over here to tell you, Rarity. First, something more powerful than the magic of friendship is keeping us together, but it’s still fragile, like an apple sapling. We can still mess things up.”

Rarity scowled. “Oh, I think things are well beyond messed up between me and Sunset Shimmer.”

Applejack turned off the television and scooted close to Rarity. Looking her in the eyes, she said, “Which brings me to the second part. Friends forgive each other. Did you forget that you were the first one of us to lift a hand to help Sunset Shimmer? We knew she did some awful things, but she is now our friend. You need to forgive her so she can forgive herself.”

“But I can’t get the image of Sunset Shimmer and my philandering father out of my head!” Rarity wailed, but Applejack perceived that her impassioned words had cracked the fashionista’s façade.

“Yeah, I understand that. I’m upset for you, because what Sunset did wasn’t right,” said Applejack, “But I have a feeling that we have more important things to worry about.”

Rarity nodded hesitantly and said, “I know. Whatever is happening is dangerous enough for Twilight to send someone in her place. This Leviathan creature sounds horrifying and Adagio’s plans must be truly awful. But, what can we do? Sunset Shimmer is the one that knows all about magic after all.”

Calm and wise, she said, “We can stand together. We’ve done it before and we must do it again.” Applejack dug into her pocket and placed the enameled pin portraying the rainbow in Rarity’s lap. “Rarity, this is from downstairs in the store you’ve made a success through your inspiration and hard work. Look at the pin. If you take away one of the colors, the whole thing doesn’t look right. Do you understand what I’m trying to tell you?”

Rarity furrowed her brow in concentration. She took an enormous bite of pizza as she examined the brooch. Applejack’s green eyes shone with wisdom and determination. Faced with the emerald gaze, Rarity’s theatrics were swept away. She swallowed the pizza, pulled back the sweatshirt’s hood, sat up straight and took a deep breath.

Rarity softly said, “I had these commissioned after we defeated… after the Fall Formal. It’s serendipity that they were delivered now.” The fashion designer rubbed her eyes. “Applejack, darling, as usual, you are correct. You use reality and your folksy wisdom as blunt instruments to force me into seeing matters from a better perspective. I certainly don’t like it, but I did need it. Of course I’ll help. But, can you permit my using the cliché that wounds need time to heal?”

Applejack pointed a finger at her friend. “I know this is tough, but we need you to find the gumption to heal your hurt feelings more quickly. We can’t fuss and fight. Didn’t we learn anything from the Dazzlings? Sunset Shimmer told us that we need to stop Adagio from carrying out her plans with this Leviathan critter. I don’t think that Siren will wait for you to dry your tears and put on your face. If you can speed up the forgiveness train for me, I’ll owe you a favor.”

“You know what favor I’ve asked for, time and again,” replied Rarity. A mischievous smile curled across her face.

Applejack indulged in theatrics of her own, removing her hat and fluttering her eyelashes. “Fine, I’ll walk the runway for you, but only once! Just don’t try to burn me out the way you did poor Fluttershy when you talked her into modeling.”

Rarity was smiling warmly now, using a singsong voice. “It’s time to introduce the summer line, Applejack! You know that means short skirts and swimsuits, right?”

“I told you I’d do it, didn’t I? We have to wait until after all this is over, though. But first thing’s first! You have to make up with Sunset Shimmer!” demanded Applejack.

Rarity wiped her hands on her hooded sweatshirt and gave Applejack a hug. “I can’t bear to face Sunset Shimmer again so soon. I’m still quite angry, though you’ve given me much to ponder. I’m much closer to forgiving her, but I need to think about what you’ve said and get myself back in order.”

“Come on, Rarity, give me something I can use as a peace offering. Sunset is pretty torn up over all this, too. Besides, farmer’s intuition tells me we need to get our act together soon because we may not have that much time left,” said Applejack, holding Rarity by both shoulders.

She smiled at Applejack and replied, “The healing powers of Peanut Butter Swirl ice cream, Manehattan-style pizza and a, shall we say, direct friend are more powerful than I dared hope. As you wish, Applejack. Please tell Sunset Shimmer that I will have the gown she wore on Tuesday night fixed by tomorrow and tell her ‘good luck at the forge’ from me.”

“Thanks, Rarity. I just know that will help,” said Applejack. A noontime ray of sunshine broke through the curtains to illuminate the two young women on the couch as they finished their lunch together.

Author's Note

Happy New Year to one and all! I hope that 2015 is off to a great start for everyone. It’s hard for me to believe that I started this writing journey with short, one-sitting chapters and have progressed to a much more complicated creative process.

I’d like to express my thanks to IsabellaAmoreSirenix for her continued editing excellence and to SerenaAveline for her sage advice. IsabellaAmoreSirenix has recently published two outstanding one-chapter stories which I suggest reading. I recommended one of them in a blog post. Her writing and storytelling are very different from mine and superior in many respects. I have only one caution - be prepared for stories with the “sad” tag.

Thanks for your steadfast and continuing support of Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer even as the pace of my writing slows. I am grateful for your taking the time to read over 70,000 words to reach this point. I look forward to your thoughts, comments and encouragement!

Chapter Thirteen

Pinkie Pie jumped at the sound of a knock at the door to Canterlot High School’s pottery lab. The afternoon sun slanted through the blinds and bestowed a warm, golden hue on the classroom. Before she rose from the circular table, Pinkie Pie placed a white cotton drop cloth loosely over the thick book that she was reading, concealing it from view and protecting it from accidental damage. Aria Blaze tightened her grip on an eighteen-inch long piece of metal that she held concealed in her lap. She looked at Pinkie expectantly with wary, violet eyes.

Pinkie Pie feigned an innocent error. “Oh, I’m so sorry! The door must have locked by itself. I’ll be right there!” she said brightly as she walked to the door.

Pinkie Pie grinned broadly when she peered through the door’s tall, rectangular window. Her body language immediately relaxed and she said ebulliently, “Sonata, get in here! We didn’t know it was you!”

Sonata Dusk cautiously stepped through the door and closed it behind her. “Hi, Pinkie. Hi, Aria. How are things going in here?”

Aria permitted herself a small smile. She placed the makeshift cudgel on the table and stood. “There are just a few more hours to go, Sonata. Soon, the firing will stop and we’ll just have to wait for the kiln to cool down.”

“Yeah, I overheard Sunset Shimmer saying something about how hot that thing gets on the inside. No wonder it takes so long to cool down!” Sonata kept glancing all over the room nervously and rapidly shifted the subject. “Discord is so silly! He makes me laugh, but sometimes he says and does things I just don’t understand.”

Aria Blaze patiently looked at Sonata Dusk for a long time, not saying a word. Sonata’s small talk trailed off under the violet-eyed scrutiny. She fidgeted with her spiked bracelets and shifted her weight from one foot to the other. Pinkie Pie took a deep breath and was about to fill the silence, but after one glance at Aria, she gave a soft sigh and shut her mouth.

“Aria, could we talk about something? You know, just the two of us?” asked Sonata Dusk as she looked at the toes of her borrowed cowgirl boots.

Pinkie Pie saw the changes in Sonata’s body language and rushed to give her a side hug, filling the Siren’s face with curly pink hair. “Whatever it is, it’ll be fine, Sonata!”

“Could you give us some privacy, Pinkie? Sonata will help me if there’s a problem with the mold or if there are any unwelcome faces at the door,” said Aria Blaze, gesturing at the exit with her head. While her face remained neutral, her eyes frowned.

Pinkie Pie looked from Sonata to Aria and back again. They’re sure acting strange, she thought. Breaking the silence, she said aloud, “Sure thing! Can I get either one of you a bite to eat or a drink before the snack bar closes?”

“Another cup of coffee would be wonderful. Thank you,” Aria Blaze replied, stretching her purple-tinted arms above her head.

Sonata sheepishly replied, “I’m so sorry for getting so wrapped up in my own head that I forgot to be polite, Pinkie! I didn’t sleep well last night. Could you get me one of those fancy yummy drinks you gave me at Sugar Cube Corner?” Her enthusiasm returned as she licked her lips.

“They don’t do as good of a job here, but I’ll do my best! I’ll be back in a bit,” Pinkie replied. She stopped at the door and looked back with a serious look in her blue eyes. “Sonata, I hope you’re OK.”

The door clicked closed and Sonata Dusk wistfully peered through the door’s window. Pinkie Pie was ebulliently skipping down the empty hallway. She turned around to face Aria and said, “Everything has changed so much and nobody understands.” Sonata’s blue-tinted fingers tapped the center of her chest.

“What are you talking about, Sonata?” asked Aria.

Sonata started pacing. “Like you said this morning, I just don’t know what’s right and what’s wrong. You and Adagio used to be so happy when I broke couples apart because we could feast on the negative energy. Now, you tell me that all of that is wrong, even though it was the only thing I ever did well.”

“Wait a minute, Sonata. You’re getting ahead of yourself,” said Aria.

“You and Adagio think I’m stupid. That’s why you left me alone!” cried Sonata

“That’s not true!” Aria snapped. Taking the anger out of her voice, she continued earnestly. “Frankly, you can be a ditz and get on my nerves when you go off on one of your tangents. But, you have always seen this world and all it has to offer so much differently than Adagio and I ever did. And, I do owe you an apology for staying with Adagio after she attacked you. I was confused then. I’ll admit to you that I’m still terrified of what she is capable of, even more so now because I bet she’s as hurt and confused as we are. Fear and long loyalty caused me to stay with her then, but I’m here with you now.”

Sonata wiped away a tear. “I’m just so different. I always have been. I wanted to be tough like you and be a powerful Princess like Adagio.”

“I’m glad you’re different, Sonata! You were the only one with the courage to ask the question that I had been thinking about since my pendant shattered. You asked Adagio ‘Are we human now?’ You were the only one of us that had any sense of what the future could hold!” said Aria, gesturing emphatically with her right hand.

Sonata Dusk snorted, flipping her long blue ponytail. “That bravery did me no good. She beat the stuffing out of me!”

“But it did me plenty of good! You started the process to break me free of He Who Swims in Darkness. It did you plenty of good, too. Sunset Shimmer’s magic healed you and I know how happy you’ve been at the farm and at Rarity’s shop. Stop worrying about proving yourself!” said Aria, attempting to touch Sonata sympathetically on her shoulder.

Sonata drew back from the other girl’s touch and angrily said, “I’ll get her back for what she did to me! I’d never treat my subjects that way! I’d protect those that I love and punish those that deserve it.” She clenched her fists and crossed her arms over her chest.

“Oh, I think I finally see what this is all about. Did you ever tell Adagio you knew?” asked Aria, folding her hands and pointing at Sonata with both index fingers.

“Never!” replied Sonata vehemently. “Just like I know you never told Adagio about the doubts your mother had about serving the Queen.”

Aria shook her head. “Mother couldn’t believe that Queen Blinding Dazzle was willing to kill a score of mermares to make sure that one filly – you – would be offered to the Master as tribute. One of the last things she said to me before we boarded the chariot for the trip to the Trench Gate was ‘Aria, I don’t know what I would have done if Her Majesty had ordered the execution.’ I didn’t understand why that bothered her so much until I met Lady Luna in my dream.”

Sonata was an erratic jumble of emotions. She took Aria’s hands in her own. “Ari, we needed and still need to share secrets that are just ours! Adagio always knew everything and used it to do the worst things.”

Aria Blaze smiled at Sonata’s rare use of her filly nickname. She replied, “We have kept each other’s family secrets safe from Adagio for a long time now. I’ll never understand why you decided to tell that writer in Trottingham about how your mother and father secretly loved one another, though! I’m just glad that I was able to trust you with my mother’s doubts.”

The sunlight glinted off of some of the artwork, sending prismatic sparkles dancing among the room’s shadows. Sonata smiled back. “I’m so glad we had just us sometimes, and I’m glad you told me what my mama couldn’t about my daddy.” She embraced Aria and held her tightly for several moments.

“I wish that I could show you what changed everything for me, Sonata. I wish that you were there to see Sunset Shimmer being so brave in facing her past decisions and using her wisdom to do the right thing for all of us now,” said Aria, returning Sonata’s embrace. “I know now that He Who Swims in Darkness hides terrible things from all of us. Adagio probably doesn’t know everything, either. I just wish you had a better light to see through his shadows. One day, I’ll find a way to show you myself and then you’ll see clearly.”

Sonata set her jaw and gripped Aria by both shoulders. “Thank you for that. I have a wish, too. I wish that I could have seen my daddy one more time before becoming a Siren, but Adagio’s mama took that away from me. I need a song that’s mine alone.” She collapsed against Aria again.

Aria felt Sonata’s body trembling and her heart pounding. Underneath that fake farmgirl act, she’s like an undersea volcano about to erupt! thought Aria. She said aloud, “Is there anything else you want to tell me, Sonata?”

Sonata looked at Aria sadly. She stepped back, sniffed loudly to clear her nose and waited a long moment. Sonata finally replied, “I want to, I really do, but I can’t. You’ll see soon and it will be my crowning glory! Maybe you won’t have to do all this after all.” A sweep of a blue-tinted arm took in the entire pottery room.

Pinkie Pie’s muffled voice came through the door. She called, “Room service! Let me in!”

“Sonata, in many ways we’re closer than any sisters could be. I’ve been very tough on you and often cruel to you for centuries, but now, everything has changed. We can choose for ourselves, and we’re not controlled by our hunger. I’ll do all I can to help you see what Luna showed me and to help you learn what Sunset Shimmer is teaching me. Just don’t go somewhere I can’t follow or to a place where I can’t protect you,” said Aria. Her forehead was creased with concern.

Sonata Dusk reached for the door handle, where Pinkie Pie’s smiling face filled the window. “I know I’ll learn one day, and I’m glad you’ll be the one to show me, but I need to do this myself, Aria.”

“If you do love Big Macintosh, you may have to let him go,” warned Aria.

Sonata looked at the floor, closed her eyes and turned the handle. Pinkie Pie danced into the room, somehow carrying three large caffeinated drinks without spilling a drop, and cheerfully said, “I thought you’d never open the door! You can’t let your drinks get cold!”

“Thanks, Pinkie! You’re the best! But, this time, I need mine to go,” said Sonata, grabbing her cup and sliding out into the hallway.

“My new bestie isn’t sticking around to hang out?” asked Pinkie, her pink curls deflating a bit.

Aria relieved Pinkie Pie of her burden. She set both remaining cups on the table and gratefully said, “You’re a good friend, Pinkie. We just had a tough talk and I know she’ll need you later.”

“But, for now, you and Sunset Shimmer need me to catch up on some light reading!” said Pinkie Pie enthusiastically. She took a long pull on her espresso drink and her hair returned to life. “So, where was I? Oh, yeah! The rise of the Dazzle Dynasty,” she intoned mysteriously, waving her hands playfully in front of her.

Suddenly, a loud beep echoed through the room. Both girls put their hands to their pockets and looked at one another. Aria chuckled self-consciously and pulled the cell phone she retrieved from the aquarium out of her pocket. She looked at the screen, and the blood drained from her face.

“What is it, Aria?” asked Pinkie Pie, craning her head around in an attempt to see the screen on the phone.

Aria Blaze, head swimming, unsteadily sat down at the pottery room’s large table. Her violet eyes momentarily widened as she read. Aria’s visage quickly composed itself into its usual wary scowl as she said, “The message is from Adagio Dazzle. She says she’s in trouble and needs my help.”

“Um, Discord, is that really necessary?” asked Fluttershy from behind her pale green sunglasses that she was wearing to filter out the bright afternoon sunshine while she drove.

Discord’s muffled response was indecipherable, because his entire face was hidden behind a crash helmet. He was wearing an auto racing suit with a fierce-looking butterfly emblazoned on the chest. The Spirit of Chaos’ knuckles were white due to his tight grip on both passenger seat armrests.

“Come on, man! If you’re so ancient and powerful, why are you so freaked out by riding in a van?” groaned Rainbow Dash from the back of the vehicle.

Discord flipped the helmet’s visor up and said testily, “Rainbow Dash, I am accustomed to being responsible for my own transportation, thank you very much.” He turned his head back towards Fluttershy. “Are you sure that it’s too far to walk?” The wings of the butterfly on Discord’s suit began to flap.

“Oh, we could walk,” interjected Sunset Shimmer, who winked at Rainbow Dash. She leaned forward and added, “But you’d have to carry that heavy pack the whole way, Discord.”

Discord frowned at her and said, “Well played, Sunset Shimmer. If I don’t make it, please give Twilight Sparkle my regards and say some kind words over my grave. Press on, Fluttershy!” He flipped the visor back down and gripped the armrests even tighter than before.

The antique van rumbled along the two-lane road leading to Sweet Apple Acres. Fluttershy concentrated in the driver’s seat. Sunset Shimmer, Sonata Dusk and Apple Bloom sat on the bench. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo had secured themselves as well as they could in the back. They safeguarded the Equestrian backpack and the rest of the cargo. The young orphan, as usual, was hanging on Rainbow Dash’s every word and gesture.

Meanwhile in the front, Apple Bloom had taught Sonata Dusk the lyrics to several popular songs and the two of them engaged in loud duets as familiar tunes came on the radio. Apple Bloom was having trouble matching Sonata’s vocal range, which caused adorably annoying squeaks to issue forth from the younger girl. Still, Sunset Shimmer smiled at their playfulness and even joined in a little bit during the choruses. It wasn’t enough music or emotion to make her pony ears appear, but it helped her relax after a long, difficult day which had started well before dawn.

As the van turned onto the gravel two-track and passed beneath the “Sweet Apple Acres” arch, Sunset asked to nobody in particular, “How do you think Pinkie Pie and Aria Blaze are doing in the pottery room?”

Scootaloo piped up from the back, “Hmmm, I see only three possibilities. Pinkie’s been murdered, Aria has lost her mind or everything’s fine!”

Everyone erupted in laughter as Fluttershy parked next to the Apples’ pickup truck. Discord snapped his fingers and the butterfly-emblazoned auto racing suit disappeared, replaced by paisley overalls and a leather apron. The butterfly lapel pin clung stubbornly to a shoulder strap. Discord perched a set of welder’s goggles on his forehead. He stepped down from the passenger seat and saw Scootaloo struggling to lift his backpack from the rear of the van.

“For a teacher, you sure have a lot of stuff! What’s in here? Rocks?” complained Scootaloo.

Discord smirked, shouldered the backpack and brushed by the tomboy, momentarily imbuing her short, dark pink hair with every shade of the rainbow. He winked at Scootaloo and sarcastically answered, “Rocks, metal, books, a change of skivvies, my favorite toothbrush and a few presents for my new friends!”

“What did you get us?” asked Apple Bloom greedily as the others grabbed their bags and belongings. She attempted to force her way past Discord and rummage inside the pack.

“Haven’t your closed-mouth brother and your diligent sister taught you any patience? They’re not even wrapped yet!” cried Discord with false exasperation. He pinched the tips of the bow holding her hair back, and it grew into a tent-sized hat that engulfed the teenager and halted her snooping.

Applejack, who displayed a pleased grin, came outside to greet the crowd. She immediately started issuing orders, pointing at each girl in turn. “Alright, Apple Bloom, quit messing around with Mr. Discord and get washed up. In case you haven’t noticed, we have a bunch of mouths to feed and lots of heads that will need to rest later. You, me, Fluttershy and Scootaloo will cook and work on things inside. The rest of you have plenty of work outside between the chores and the forge.”

Sonata was a blue blur entering the house. Her ponytail streamed behind her. “I need to change and get to work in the barn!” she shouted happily.

“I’ve never seen someone so excited about manure before,” said Rainbow Dash, shrugging her shoulders. She strolled through the door and asked, “Are my coveralls still in the mud room, AJ?”

Applejack nodded, “Eeyup!” She turned to Sunset Shimmer, pointed a finger towards the distant Honeycrisp trees and said, “The smithy is about two hundred yards that way and the forge is inside. You’ll find a path next to the livestock barn. Follow it until you reach a brick building in a big clearing. I already turned on the kerosene heater but don’t fire the forge until Big Mac or I are there to help you after dinner. I like you too much to see you barbecued.”

“Thanks, Applejack,” said Sunset Shimmer. She playfully tugged at the brim of the farmgirl’s hat and set one of her bags inside a nearby wheelbarrow. “We may be out there for a while, so send someone or call my cell when dinner’s ready. Was there anything else?”

“Yeah, I have two things. First, the smithy is a special place for us, and I’d appreciate your keeping it tidy. You’ll understand soon enough. Second, I had lunch with Rarity. She had a message for you.” Applejack straightened her posture, twirled a blonde lock of hair around her finger and affected a nearly-perfect imitation of the mercurial fashion designer. “The gown you wore on Tuesday night will be fixed by tomorrow.”

“Was that all?” asked Sunset as the disappointment spread across her face.

Applejack smiled and touched Sunset Shimmer’s cheek. In her normal twang, she said, “Rarity wanted me to tell you ‘good luck at the forge.’ We had a long talk and I think it helped.”

Sunset Shimmer threw her arms around Applejack and hugged her tightly. “Thank you so much! That’s great news, and you’re a wonderful friend. But now, I need to get to work. Discord, what are you doing over there?”

The Spirit of Chaos was attempting to have a conversation with a dairy cow. “What do you mean, she pinches too hard? That’s utterly impossible!” The cow mooed loudly and stomped its hooves.

Sunset Shimmer placed her jewelry-making kit on top of her other bags. She nudged the tall man with her full wheelbarrow. “Come on, Discord! We need to take inventory!”

“Fine, Mabel, I’ll take it up with the management.” Discord waved farewell to the cow, adjusted his leather blacksmith’s apron and shifted the weight of his backpack. Gesturing with the branch from Twilight’s former home he said, “Show me where to go, Sunset! Oh, and don’t let me step in any animal droppings. You have no idea how long it took me to find these boots.”

The two Equestrians walked along the path, surrounded by apple trees in full bloom. Despite last night’s thunderstorm, only a few petals were scattered in the grass and on the earth and most continued to cling to the trees. Sunset Shimmer thought, The apple blossoms are as stubborn as the family that cares for them.

The transformed draconequus’ head moved to and fro. He stroked his beard, assessed the orchard, and then stopped short, forcing Sunset Shimmer and the wheelbarrow she was pushing to unceremoniously collide with him and his backpack.

“I forgot to tell you something!” cried Discord, twirling the branch from the Golden Oak Library.

Sunset Shimmer swatted away the tiny, purple, six-pointed stars that took flight from the wood. “What’s that?” she asked icily.

“Twilight was most insistent that you should write her once I arrived and you made sure that everything in here,” he patted the bulging backpack, “survived its little inter-dimensional jaunt. It must be important that I decided to remember that right now!” Discord winked at Sunset Shimmer and resumed his stroll.

Sunset Shimmer’s annoyance evaporated as the pair came over a small rise and a clearing spread out below them. The afternoon sun slanted across the blue sky, reflecting off the scintillating waters of a tiny brook. The apple trees and their fragrant blooms retreated, forming a rough circle fifty yards across. In the center of the circle, about twenty yards from the brook, stood a small but sturdy brick building with a tall chimney reaching up to the sky.

“That’s a smithy? It looks more like a cottage!” said Sunset Shimmer with an astonished gasp.

They went inside and found a well-cared for building that seemed nearly frozen in time. Devoid of dust, it seemed as if the occupant had merely stepped out for a moment. Two-thirds of the one-room floor plan was dominated by the forge and workbenches along the walls. Pegs above the workbenches held a wide assortment of metalworking tools. Though some were slightly rusty, examples of completed work ranged from the functional to the sentimental. The kerosene heater that Applejack had mentioned glowed near the center of the building. It was obviously intended for use when the forge was not operating.

The remaining third of the smithy contained a small relaxation area. An old weathered couch faced an ancient television that still had aluminum foil wrapped around the twin prongs of an antenna. Next to the couch was a small coffee table, beneath which was a vintage aluminum cooler. Upon the table sat a pair of sports magazines from exactly ten years ago, an empty beer can and a framed photograph of the three Apple children sitting on the forge’s couch. In the picture, Big Macintosh was starting to shoot up to his present towering height, Applejack was early in her school years and Apple Bloom was just beyond being a toddler. The metal frame was obviously fashioned at the forge behind them.

Discord set down his load in the center of the floor and began to unpack. “This place feels strange to me, Sunset Shimmer, and I don’t like admitting that,” he said, carefully placing an ingot of silvery metal on the sturdy workbench.

“This must have been where Applejack’s dad came to relax, Discord. He’s been dead for ten years, but it looks like the Apples kept it exactly the same. Wow, I can’t imagine what that’s like for any of them,” she said, rubbing the corner of her right eye. “Could you hand me that book?”

The Spirit of Chaos handed Sunset’s journal to her. The sunburst briefly assumed a red-and-gold brilliance and spun slowly in place while the book was held in Discord’s hands. His skin turned a shade of lavender as he gave her a toothy, single-fanged grin.

“That’s right! You have to get through your checklist,” Discord said in a perfect imitation of Twilight Sparkle’s voice.

Sunset Shimmer shook her head in exasperation. While Discord continued unpacking, she set the book carefully on the rickety coffee table, uncapped her pen and wrote:

Dear Twilight,

After everything that’s happened today, I’m not surprised that Discord forgot to mention that he wanted me to write you as soon as he arrived. He made it here safely, and we managed to convince Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna to let him teach. You described him very accurately, as usual. He often makes me angry and sometimes makes me laugh. But – and don’t tell him this – he always makes me think and certainly knows what he’s talking about. He’s as off-balance as you and I were when we came through the portal, but he’s a lot better at hiding it.

I’m going to take a look at all that you sent me and see what I can craft from all the ingredients and spell components. Everything seems to have made it here safe and sound. Please thank everyone for pulling together to help. Your friends in Ponyville don’t even know me and still did all this work!

Sunset Shimmer, lost in thought, twirled a lock of hair around her left index finger. She bent back to the page and continued her letter:

I think I know now what you meant by sending me the picture of the six thrones in a circle at your castle after I told you about Rarity coming on to me. Choosing to be a leader is way more difficult than I thought it would be. How do you set such a good example all the time? But, I learned that my friends need me to be confident and steady right now. The stakes are too high to allow myself to become selfishly lovestruck. If I’m caught up in a tangle of my own emotions, I could neglect my friends or miss something important that puts us all in worse danger.

Some of these lessons in friendship are tough to learn, but I’ll have to wait until we stop Adagio and He Who Swims in Darkness before I can write you about anything simpler. It’s time to get to work.

Your faithful friend,
Sunset Shimmer

Discord chortled as he removed a long transparent container from the backpack that contained huge feathers. He chuckled as he chanted, “Sun, Moon, Heart and Stars, let me hum a few more bars…”

Just as she was about to close the book, Sunset Shimmer’s eyes locked upon the collection of snow-white feathers in the container. She re-opened the journal and added a postscript.

P. S. Twilight, if I fail, please tell Celestia about how much I’ve changed and how hard I tried. Thanks, SS.

A deep, surprisingly kind voice said, “You won’t fail, Sunset Shimmer.”

Sunset Shimmer shut the tome and sent the message to Twilight Sparkle. She turned to Discord, composed herself, and replied, “What makes you say that?”

In a flash of light, Discord transformed himself into his original suit of clothing. His crimson eyes twinkled in amusement as spread his arms wide and declared, “You have me!”

“That’s not what I needed to hear right now,” she replied, rolling her eyes in disapproval.

Discord sat down on the other end of the couch. He reached into his jacket and pulled out Sunset Shimmer’s large sketch pad. He turned past the drawings of Chainbreaker and the magical focus to a blank page.

He kicked the cooler beneath the table, which was still half-full of beer. He said soberly, “Like the man that used this forge as a refuge, I’m going to practice moderation and hold back my chaotic tendencies for the moment. We both prefer action, but this moment requires a lengthy exposition. Sunset Shimmer, what I’m about to tell you is very important and will provide you a window into matters you are only barely ready to recognize.”

“I’m as prepared as I’m ever going to be,” said Sunset Shimmer. She straightened her posture, folded her hands in her lap and listened attentively.

Discord sighed and leaned forward. “As powerful as the Equestrian alicorns are, there are forces and entities that make them puny by comparison. At that level of existence, one that I share with them in my own way, our decisions and actions have added weight and can transform who we are. For example, even before the most recent series of unfortunate events involving Tirek, I had largely suppressed my chaotic nature and cooperated with the Magic of Friendship. As a result, I have less raw Chaos at my disposal.” He touched his butterfly lapel pin, which crawled up Discord’s hand and rested on his wrist.

Sympathetically nodding, Sunset Shimmer replied, “And, now in this world, like me, you can barely use the magic you’ve spent your whole life depending on.”

“Indeed, but remember that I’ve been at this since before any of the Princesses were born. Here’s my point: Leviathan, He Who Swims in Darkness or whatever you want to call him,” Discord waved his hands wildly, and his red eyes rattled crazily with them, “is terrible enough on his own. What worries me is the teacher I bumped into and what it means for all of us.”

Astonished, she cried, “Ms. Raven, the literature teacher? She’s formal, boring and is a tough grader. That’s not exactly the sort of thing that should make the Spirit of Chaos quake in his boots.”

As Discord concentrated, the sleeves and lower legs of his mismatched suit lost their colorful patterns and became flat black. “Sunset Shimmer, that’s only part of it. Your Ms. Raven is actually Shrieking Raven, a banshee who serves Vecna. Vecna, or what’s left of him, is a heavy hitter in the parts of existence dealing with death.”

“So, it’s Raven’s magic I felt back at the Sirens’ hideout,” said Sunset Shimmer, wrapping her arms around herself.

Discord nodded. “I’ve had dealings with Raven before. This was many centuries ago, when she was new to her undeath. Like us, her power is curtailed in this world. But, rest assured, she certainly has a plan that we won’t like. If Shrieking Raven’s magic returns, she can injure or kill with a scream and summon other undead creatures to do her will. As I’m sure you’ve noticed, your innate magic gives you certain physical gifts. I’m certain that Raven will not be the frail bookworm she pretends to be when push comes to shove,” he explained.

“So, what do we do with all of that?” Sunset Shimmer jerking a thumb back towards the magical treasure trove arrayed on the workbenches.

Discord smiled and let his dark hair assume the form of twin pigtails sticking out from the sides of his head. “I have two pieces of advice. First, give Aria Blaze the weapon she wants, but it must have particular strengths against those enslaved by death.” He turned the pages of the sketch pad and reached behind the couch. “This mace will do nicely. The head I leave to you, but the handle must be made from this.”

Sunset Shimmer reverently accepted the burned branch from the Golden Oak Library in both hands. “Why is this so important?” she asked.

Discord swept a hand, the gesture encompassing the entire farm around them, “Do you deny the protective magic surrounding us here at the Apple Family’s home? Twilight Sparkle’s ascension at her home in Ponyville was a thousand times more potent than anything that’s ever happened here. Though the tree lies in ruins, powerful magic remains imbued in the wood.”

Her fingers tingled as the gripped the branch, feeling the magical resonance in what would be an integral part of Chainbreaker. “And the second piece of advice?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

“Oh, ho! You’re not going to like this advice!” Discord chortled and continued. “As you craft the magic-focusing necklace, just follow your instincts and remember what you have learned. My senses are dulled because of this world, but I know it’s all right there,” Discord pointed at Sunset Shimmer’s heart.

She stood and said, “Is there anything else, Discord? If not, we should get to work. I’m glad that you told me all of this, but none of it makes me happy, if that makes sense.”

The Spirit of Chaos’ appearance exploded back into its normal form. He stood and walked towards the workbenches. He chuckled softly and replied, “If you hadn’t made sense, I’d probably have understood it even better! But, there is one last serious comment I must make before my horrifically dull exposition is complete and I teach you the virtues of alicorn feathers, star iron and diamond dust.”

Sunset Shimmer removed her jacket and set it carefully on the back of the battered couch. She met Discord’s serious crimson gaze and asked, “And that is?”

“I do believe in you, now more than ever. But, please do a good job. I don’t particularly want to face my journey into eternity from this particular starting point,” he intoned.

Sunset Shimmer smiled mischievously and asked, “Does the all-powerful Spirit of Chaos need a hug?”

“No. I’m not that far gone yet!” He snapped his fingers and transformed his clothing into that of a chef carrying a clipboard. “I thank you all the same, but let’s make a recipe instead!”

Sunset Shimmer tied her hair back, opened the artificer’s tome loaned to her from the Canterlot Arcane Forge and began issuing orders.

The green-shirted farmhand gave a low whistle and said to his co-worker, “Wow, did you see that new girl in the livestock barn?”

“I sure did! There’s no way you could miss her. How in the heck is she working so fast? She had just started to stack the hay bales. I came over here to grab some more tools, and when I got back to the barn she had finished and was already moving on to the stalls,” said a second farmhand in a brown work jacket.

“She can’t weigh more than a hundred and fifteen pounds soaking wet,” said Green Shirt, shaking his head with disbelief.

Work Jacket grinned at his co-worker. “Now that’s a sight I might want to see.”

“Hey, you two, get back to work! That’s my guest and my sister’s friend you’re talking about, and I’d appreciate it if you showed her some respect. You wouldn’t talk about Applejack or Rainbow Dash that way,” boomed Big Macintosh as he strode across the concrete floor of the equipment barn. He pointed an accusing finger at the two employees.

Work Jacket elbowed Green Shirt and whispered, “Well, we sure wouldn’t say anything about those two where the boss could hear it.”

Green Shirt returned the jab and pulled his colleague along. “Sorry, Mac. It won’t happen again. Come on, let’s get this done and go have a tall one at the Salt Lick.”

Big Macintosh fumed. Now that Rainbow Dash had taken a four-wheeler out to the edge of the orchard to plant some saplings, he was alone in the barn. Big Mac kicked a plastic bucket across the concrete in frustration. He hadn’t spoken to Cheerilee in a couple of days, and her text replies to him were strangely evasive. The young man was worried that he’d miss a rare springtime opportunity to spend a night out with his girlfriend that weekend.

“With Granny Smith in Appleoosa, I wouldn’t get any grief for coming in late, either. With all this extra help, maybe we could have even stayed downtown after a fancy dinner,” he said to himself.

“Big Mac! Are you in here?” called Apple Bloom. The apron she wore over her clothing was covered with flour and she was holding her cell phone.

He took a deep breath and slowly let it out before he responded. He said simply, “Eeyup.”

“Tomorrow, may I have permission to go spend the night in the clubhouse with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo? It would be a great way for us to finish off the week now that the weather’s getting warmer,” she said sweetly, clasping her hands behind her back.

Big Macintosh cocked his head and rubbed the five o’clock shadow on his chin. He said, “I don’t see why that’s a problem as long as the three of you stick together. Don’t do anything too crazy, because nobody can hear you out there.”

She stood on her tiptoes and gave Big Macintosh a peck on the cheek. “Thanks, big brother! This is going to be so much fun!” Apple Bloom jogged back to the house with her red bow bobbing up and down with each step.

Big Macintosh shook his head and wiped the sweat off of his forehead with a red handkerchief. He headed towards the livestock barn.

As he approached, he heard Sonata’s singing spilling out through the open door. Big Macintosh entered the barn and heard the lyrics clearly:

You're the apple of my eye
You're luscious and you're sweet
You're the apple of my eye
You're sweet enough to eat

Sonata Dusk was nearly dancing with the shovel she was using, scooping in time with the song’s beat. Just like the previous afternoon, she allowed her long blue hair to flow freely about her shoulders. Big Macintosh watched her clean the stall like a veteran farmhand. He realized that he was staring at the beautiful girl when she turned towards him with a beaming smile.

“Hi, Big Mac! Am I doing this right?” Sonata asked innocently and added a pronounced flip of her hair.

“You’re doing a great job, Sonata. It’s like you’ve been doing this your whole life! Not even Applejack moves this quickly out here,” he replied.

Sonata gave the young farmer a sweet smile. “Well, you need to keep working, too! The boss’ job is never done. I just want to finish because I can already smell that delicious dinner and I want to save some time to sing with you tonight.” She let her blue locks fall over one lilac-hued eye. Brushing it out of her face, she added shyly, “Well, that is, if you’d like to sing with me again.”

Big Macintosh hesitantly returned the smile and his cheeks turned a shade redder. He replied, “I’ll finish up with the hands and make sure my guitar is tuned for later.”

He walked briskly back towards the equipment barn. Sonata Dusk’s eyes followed him every step of the way. A crooked smile spread across her face and she resumed her singing.

“Nothing. Don’t you dare call Adagio back yet,” said Pinkie Pie ominously. She had draped the cotton drop cloth over her head as a makeshift cowl.

Aria Blaze growled and asked, “Why not?”

“I’ve already said this twenty times, Aria. Again, my Pinkie Sense hasn’t told me it’s a good time for that yet!” she cried. Her blue eyes shone with certainty.

“You’re a baker, not an oracle, Pinkie,” groaned Aria.

From the depths of the white cotton hood, Pinkie Pie’s eyes went wide and she faked a deep voice. “You dare doubt me? The newcomer displays incredible insolence!”

“I think your hunger has finally broken your brain,” replied Aria, burying her face in her hands.

“Nah, that was from a Daring Do movie. The food should be here any moment now, but please don’t make fun of my Pinkie Sense, Aria. I have no idea how it works, but it’s always right!” Her right foot twitched uncontrollably. “And that tells me that dinner is served!”

She stood and walked to the door, opening it just as a young woman with gray skin and pin-straight purple hair raised her hand to knock. Her expressionless green eyes didn’t register any emotion, despite Pinkie’s unexpectedly perfect timing.

“Thanks for bringing us dinner, Maud!” Pinkie Pie grabbed the containers of food from her sister and set them as far away from the Aquastrian book as possible.

“It was no problem. I have to eat. You have to eat. She needs to eat,” said Maud Pie in a flat monotone.

“We’re just waiting for the clay-baking thingy to cool down. It takes a while!” said Pinkie enthusiastically.

Aria’s mouth hung wide open while watching the sisters together. She thought, I’ve seen many strange things over my long life, but there is no possible way that Pinkie Pie and Maud Pie are both the natural children of Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz.

“Your friend seems very patient. She’s barely moved. Do you think she would play Camouflage?” asked Maud. A tiny upward inflection at the end of the sentence was the only indication that she was asking a question.

Pinkie Pie pushed her sister towards the door. “Maybe another time, Maud. Aria and I have a Very Important Job here! Tell Mom and Dad that I’m fine and will be sleeping at Applejack’s tonight. Boulder can sleep in my bed, all right?”

“He’ll love that, Pinkie. I’ll tell Mom and Dad. Good luck with your clay. It’s almost a rock, but not quite,” she replied as the door clicked shut once again.

The sun was setting outside, and the kiln had recently completed its firing phase. The fluorescent lights overhead provided the majority of the room’s illumination. Pinkie and Aria, to their credit, had politely chased off teachers, students and the maintenance staff with cheerful misdirection. With Maud’s departure, they were now the school’s only live occupants. The two girls unpacked their makeshift dinner and hungrily feasted on sub sandwiches, fruit and a generous helping of sweets.

“Mmmmm, I’ve been craving a good sandwich!” said Pinkie Pie. She took another huge bite of her absurdly large sub and followed it up with a blast of whipped cream.

Aria took a bite of her sandwich and approvingly raised her eyebrows. She said, “Pinkie, thanks for dinner. Between you and Fluttershy, I’ve eaten pretty well the past two nights. What have you learned from the books so far? I know I made you stop the running commentary because my head was about to explode.”

“You sound just like Rainbow Dash and Applejack! Their heads haven’t exploded and their brains are still inside their heads. I just love making them smile!” Pinkie Pie giggled, but stopped when she noticed Aria massaging her temples.

The pink-haired girl continued. “So, here’s what happened. You three ended up here in this world a thousand years ago. The book had a lot of wacked-out ideas about the ‘Disappearance of the Sirens.’ Anyway, your city went crazy like Detrot on Nightmare Night! The book said something about how the priestesses couldn’t reach their Master after you got exiled. After that, there were riots, massive destruction and a ton of fighting between the clans. There’s one thing I can’t figure out, though. How is it possible for something underwater to catch fire?”

“It’s complicated,” said Aria, folding her arms across her chest. “Keep going, please.”

“The Queen couldn’t stop the seapony slave rebellion. Some merstallion named Ageless Coral or something broke open the prison with a machine he made from scratch. He then led a humungous revolt against the palace,” said Pinkie Pie, pantomiming a battle between a cupcake and a pear.

In shock, Aria Blaze spit out her mouthful of coffee, which fortunately hit the floor instead of the food. Wiping up the mess with a paper towel, she asked, “Check that name again for me. Please.”

Pinkie wiped her hands carefully, returned to the table with the Aquastrian tome and slowly thumbed backwards. “Here it is! I’ll read out loud to you. ‘Coral Aegis, with the help of other merstallions from his caste, used the powerful mining engine he had invented to break through the wall of the slave prison. Hidden compartments in the engine provided the escapees with weapons and the makeshift legion marched on the Imperial Palace.’ I even found a picture!”

Aria trembled as she stood to look at the illustration. Staring back at her from the page was a statue of a handsome dark blue merstallion in the prime of his life. The silver accents on his fins matched his gray eyes. The coloring was different, but the half-smile on his lips was exactly the same as his twin sister. Aria’s knees weakened and she needed to brace herself on the table to keep from falling.

“Are you all right?” asked Pinkie, hurrying to the Siren’s side. The rush of air turned the book’s page.

“I’m fine. I’m just surprised, that’s all,” Aria said, sitting down at the table.

Aria looked at the next illustration and her mouth fell open. She gasped with astonishment and mumbled, “Just like the keepsake he made for his twin sister.”

Aria Blaze’s pupils dilated and her skin became chalk-white. Pinkie Pie caught her just as her violet eyes rolled back into her head and she tumbled to the floor.

The book had opened to a beautiful, two-paged illustration of an ancient undersea concert hall. The entire building resembled an open, golden clamshell. Mermares, seaponies and other denizens of Equus’ seas joined their musical talents together in harmony with voices and instruments. The caption read “Hall of Freedom, completed in 4 A.I.A. (After Imperial Aquastria).”

Dominating the back of the exquisitely constructed stage was an enormous symbol, a masterful work of art that was meticulously inlaid with gems and precious metals. The design consisted of a turquoise-colored eighth note with a jagged stem superimposed over a huge pink heart.

***
Song lyrics from Louis Armstrong and Velma Middleton’s duet “You’re the Apple of My Eye”, originally recorded in 1951.

Author's Note

Welcome back and thank you for continuing to read! Please accept my deepest appreciation for helping this story reach the feature box for a few brief hours after the release of Chapter 12. Readership has grown dramatically during the past two weeks as a result of your enthusiasm, and I thoroughly enjoy seeing the comments from both new and returning readers!

The cast's physical fragmentation during this part of the story lent itself to shorter scenes, almost like a television show. If this was a movie, I'd recommend refilling your popcorn and using the restroom during the next few chapters. Why? The forge is about to be fired, Adagio Dazzle and Shrieking Raven are hatching their plans and Sonata approaches vital choices. All the while, Sunset Shimmer rushes headlong towards her destiny.

One final thanks to all of you for enjoying this story and to my tiny but dedicated editing and prereading team! Now, it's time to continue work on Chapter Fourteen...

Chapter Fourteen

“Discord, we’re short of purifying reagents! We have to get the evil and nasty stuff out of the pendants!” cried Sunset Shimmer. Her green-blue eyes shone with a mix of determination and frustration.

Still wearing a ridiculous chef’s outfit, Discord gestured to himself with the spatula he held in his right hand. “It’s not my fault I have a corrupting influence!”

“It’s not your fault. I’m reading Twilight’s checklist, and she simply forgot to add it,” she replied, putting a hand to her chin. “Anything would have worked. Thestral tears would have been best, but I would have settled for some Miracle Pool water.”

Discord snapped his fingers and his chef’s outfit became clerical robes. He clutched a thick black book that had the words “Friendship is Magic” written in gold on the cover. He smirked and said, “How about a more divine influence?”

Sunset Shimmer pumped a fist. “Of course! I should have remembered that awful vampire movie that Rainbow Dash forced me to watch. Holy water will serve the same purpose!”

“See, I knew you could pick up on a hint,” said Discord, shifting back into his chef outfit. Fluttershy’s lapel pin flew lazily around his hat.

“I’ll ask the girls to go get some holy water for me at dinner. The church the Apples belong to is just down the road,” replied Sunset Shimmer with a self-satisfied grin.

Discord snorted and replied, “That’s an odd thing to add to a shopping list, but if it can be obtained without a grand quest, I’ll be a happy camper.”

The Spirit of Chaos returned to his task of placing vials of arcane substances on the workbenches. Suddenly, the Equestrian journal glowed brightly and buzzed insistently as it sat on the battered coffee table. Sunset wiped her hands and sat on the couch. She opened the book and found an elaborately embossed envelope along with a note from Princess Twilight Sparkle:

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

Do not let Discord touch the envelope or what is inside!

Sorry, but I had to write that first. I know how curious he can be. I’m glad you finally learned that you were supposed to send me a message. I’m angry, but not with you. Frankly, I’m not surprised that my priorities slipped Discord’s mind.

I know you’re very busy so I’ll keep this brief. The envelope contains what I think is the most powerful magical reagent available to you for creating the arcane focus you described. It’s a leaf from the Tree of Harmony, which has started to grow again for the first time in centuries.

Practically, my research tells me that if you grind the Leaf into a paste and add it to the pendant shards and other gems, you’ll be able to arrange them in almost any kind of setting. Magically, I haven’t even heard of a more potent focus than the Tree of Harmony, so this will be a huge boost for you against Adagio and He Who Swims in Darkness.

You won’t fail, Sunset Shimmer, and I’ve already told Celestia about the new you. She was very surprised but also very happy.

Good luck. We’re all eager to learn about the finished products!

Your friend,
Twilight Sparkle

Sunset Shimmer energetically stood and boldly strode back towards the forge. As she looked at the hearth, the left workbench held the neatly-organized ingredients necessary to forge Chainbreaker and the magical necklace. She had even completed the amulet’s wax mold. The right workbench held sundry spell components for her personal use if her spellcasting abilities were restored.

Confident and hopeful, Sunset Shimmer said, “Okay, Discord. I have an important ground rule for you.”

“Yes? May I help you? Perhaps I could interest you in something that will help induce magical sleep?” he asked, rattling a vial full of white sand.

The Spirit of Chaos was standing on a small stepstool. He turned around and showed Sunset Shimmer that he was wearing a white apron with green stripes. Discord presently resembled a chubby grocer with wire-rimmed glasses low on his nose. He still held the chef’s spatula in his right hand.

She held up the envelope and said, “You may not, under any circumstances, touch this envelope or what’s in it! Twilight Sparkle just sent it to me with very specific instructions and it’s now the key ingredient to the necklace. Do you understand?”

Discord frowned. The spatula transformed into a frying pan. “I don’t like being left in the dark, my dear Baconhead. What is it?”

Sunset Shimmer sighed and crossed her arms. She said, “Fine, Fangface. It’s a leaf from the Tree of Harmony.”

His eyes widened in amazement. Discord turned to face her and asked, “The Tree is growing again?”

“Yes. Twilight mentioned that,” answered Sunset Shimmer. She raised an eyebrow. “Why do you ask?”

“The answer to that question goes under the general heading of ‘stuff you’re not ready to know about yet.’ But, you should feel particularly honored by this gift. I will not touch the envelope,” said Discord, putting his hand over the center of his chest and saluting Sunset Shimmer with the frying pan.

Before they could return to work, they heard a soft knock. The smithy door swung inward and Apple Bloom stepped inside, dragging a folded cot and a rolled up sleeping bag behind her. The heavy load had knocked her bow askew, and her long red hair was in disarray. Sunset Shimmer rushed to her rescue and helped set the items on the floor next to the couch.

Apple Bloom looked at the newly cluttered forge workbenches. Sunset Shimmer saw the tears collecting in the younger girl’s eyes.

“I think Pa would have liked to see the forge used like this again. I just know he would have helped you,” said Apple Bloom, trying her best not to cry.

Sunset Shimmer placed a hand on Apple Bloom’s shoulder. “I know. I’m honored to see his work and privileged to use his tools. Thank you for allowing me to use this special place.” She pointed at the items on the floor. “I have to ask, since you nearly hurt yourself getting down here: What’s the cot for?”

Apple Bloom readjusted the large bow in her hair and replied, “Applejack said the two of you may need a nap at some point. One can sleep on the couch and the other one can crash on the cot.”

“I have a bad back and I’m way older than you both. I’m sleeping on the couch,” said Discord with a smirk.

Ignoring Discord, Apple Bloom continued. “Dinner’s just about ready. Follow me and you’ll be able to get it while it’s hot.”

“Discord, are you all right with leaving all of these things without your supervision?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

Discord placed Chainbreaker’s future handle on the center of the coffee table. The frying pan he continued to carry morphed into a tennis racket. He said, “I think that decision is now in your court.”

Sunset Shimmer looked around the sturdy smithy, assessing the building’s security. Her eyes landed on a homemade steel casting of a bunch of five apples that had been bolted to the forge’s chimney.

She smiled at Apple Bloom and said, “I think that everything will be just fine. Let’s go enjoy dinner together.”

“Wake up, Aria,” said a cheerful but concerned voice.

Aria Blaze groaned as she felt a tickle on her cheeks and hot air on her nose. She opened her eyes and saw a cloud of pink curls framing two enormous blue eyes.

“It’s not time for a nap, silly! The clay-baker-thing only has about a hundred more degrees to go. You need to get up,” said Pinkie Pie, who had restored about twelve inches of personal space to Aria.

Aria sat up and blinked her eyes unsteadily. Pinkie immediately gave her a sip of cold coffee and watched her warily.

“What happened?” asked Aria.

Pinkie Pie sat down and joined the other girl on the floor. “You looked at a couple of pictures in that book and passed out. That’s what usually happens when you hand Rainbow Dash a math book, but you looked sick, not sleepy.”

Aria took another sip of the coffee and set it on the floor. Her purple-hued fingers massaged her temples to clear the fog from her mind. “Passed out? I don’t think that’s ever happened before.”

“You’re only human, Aria. It happens,” replied Pinkie with a sympathetic smile and a pat on the shoulder.

“Human?” Aria’s voice trailed off as she remembered the pictures in the Aquastrian book. Wistfully, she asked, “Pinkie, you’re not exactly a master historian, but you’re all I’ve got. Why do you think Coral Aegis built that concert hall?”

Her pink curls bounced as she shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t know. The best I can come up with is that I always want to remember something about everyone I meet that makes me smile. When the Aquastrians named him Chancellor or whatever, Coral Aegis must have had a beautiful but sad memory deep down to ask others to build something like that.”

Aria spoke to herself. “He lived a life worth remembering and celebrating. But, he missed his twin sister and did so much in her memory.” Silently, she thought, Nata, once again, you unintentionally inspired someone important and took away their fear.

“Let’s finish dinner. You’ll feel a lot better if you eat the cupcake first,” said Pinkie Pie, helping Aria to her feet.

They sat at the table and ate in silence for a time. Pinkie Pie leaned forward and carefully looked Aria up and down every minute or two. When Aria finished her sandwich, Pinkie Pie tossed her a homemade lemon bar and a bag of gummi bears. Color returned to Aria’s purple-tinged cheeks and her eyes resumed their watchful focus.

Aria was consumed in thought as she nibbled on the gummi bears. She finally asked, “What’s it like to be human, Pinkie?” She shook her head. “No, that’s not what I want to know. What I want to know is what it feels like to be mortal.”

Pinkie Pie’s forehead creased in concentration. “Well, I guess I don’t know anything else and I take things day by day more than, say, Applejack or Rarity. I want to make as many people smile as I can. That makes life fun for me. I don’t know how many parties I’ll throw or people I will get to meet, but each day is a new adventure,” she answered, patting Aria’s hand.

“I’m used to having decades of patience. What if I only have days and months instead?” asked Aria.

Pinkie Pie set down her rapidly disappearing sandwich and gestured imploringly to Aria with both hands. “Listen, Aria. You could go outside tonight and get hit by a bus and it would be all over. I don’t know how much time I have left and what I think is that you’re getting used to the idea that you’re back on the clock like the rest of us mortal folks.”

She nodded, finished her cup of coffee and leaned forward. “This brings back a memory from about seventy years ago. Adagio, Sonata and I participated in shows meant for soldiers. Back then, the war gave us a great opportunity to satisfy our magical hunger,” Aria blushed and the corners of her lips inched upwards, “and other appetites as well. But now, I think of them as people willing to risk their lives. Many had their lives cut short in service to others and for an ideal.”

“My grandpa served in the army during the war. When I was younger, I found a drawer full of a bunch of medals and old letters. When I asked him about it, he talked about the friends he made in his unit. I sort of knew that those friends never made the trip back home, but grandpa never came right out and said it,” said Pinkie Pie.

“What about the pain and not knowing what’s next?” she asked. Curiosity bloomed in her purple eyes.

Pinkie skipped in a circle around the pottery lab. She stopped, faced Aria and said, “That’s why we have friends and family. ‘We’re all in it together and nobody gets out alive, so we’d better enjoy it,’ is what my grandpa always told me! Working in a mine gave him a different point of view and a great sense of humor. Aria, I’m not going to tell you what I believe, but that step after our life is over is a matter of faith, not fact.”

“You overshare everything, Pinkie Pie!” Aria flashed a bemused smile. “Why don’t you want to talk about this?”

She reached across the table and gave Aria’s hand a squeeze. “It’s because I’m not you, Aria. This is all way too serious for me, so I’ll stop with this: You have to choose what life, death, love and sacrifice mean for yourself. Pinkamena Diane Pie is the last person that you should trust with those sorts of choices.” She finished with a wink.

“I think I get it, Pinkie. Thanks. Underneath all that frosting, there’s some real substance to you,” said Aria. She smiled gratefully and took a bite of an elaborately decorated cupcake.

“Okay, I have to know. What brought this on? I mean, you’re grim an awful lot, but this is all life-and-death heavy stuff. It has to be more than just the pictures from the book,” said Pinkie narrowing her eyes.

“When the others saved me at Rarity’s place, I had an experience that is tough to describe. Pinkie, I almost died, but Sunset Shimmer saved my life. More importantly, something happened in a dream that I think saved my soul. I know you understand mixing things together, right?” said Aria, speaking passionately.

“You betcha!” replied Pinkie Pie.

“Well, Sunset’s magic, your friends’ music and the dream all blended together to open my eyes. I’m terrified of He Who Swims in Darkness and the revenge he promised, but I will fight to the end to defeat him and all he stands for. I’m finally free to choose whom I protect.” Aria stood up. “I’ve chosen to protect Sunset Shimmer and her friends.”

The pink-haired girl looked up at Aria Blaze with awe. “You’re like a knight or something, now! That’s so cool! But we need to get you some better armor.”

“How about we start with making Chainbreaker? I’m more about offense than defense, Pinkie,” said Aria.

“That sounds greeeeaaaaaaahhhh!” Pinkie’s answer turned into a shout as her body was rocked by tics and unnatural twitches.

“Are you all right?” asked Aria. She grabbed the other girl to make sure she didn’t fall.

Pinkie Pie’s crazy movements suddenly ceased. She grabbed on to Aria’s collar and said, “Call Adagio now! My Pinkie Sense just went off and I’ve never had a doozie like this before.”

“What should I say?” she asked.

Pinkie desperately answered, “Anything! Just start talking to her right now!” She hastily grabbed her oversized gym bag and darted into the adjoining room to check the kiln’s temperature.

Aria fumbled with the phone and dialed. The fear that a suddenly terrified Pinkie Pie had placed in her mind caught up to her body after the second ring. Aria’s heart pounded. With great effort, she painstakingly controlled her breathing so she would sound normal to Adagio.

“Hello, Aria?” said Adagio Dazzle. Her rich voice dripped like thick honey.

Aria had almost forgotten just how Adagio’s voice was simultaneously commanding and seductive. She answered, “Yes, Adagio, it’s me.”

Adagio asked, “Where in Aquastria have you been? I haven’t heard a peep from you in three days! Are you all right?”

Aria thought, Did I just hear a note of concern? Still, you have to play this correctly. Aloud, she answered, “It’s complicated, Adagio. I got hurt while I was following that sneaky little girl from the farm. But, I healed very quickly with some help.”

“I hope you’re ready for action. I need you to find Sonata so you both can come back to me. I’ve found another way for us to return to Aquastria at last!”

Pinkie Pie tiptoed out of the small room with the kiln. Silently, she pointed to her watch and then held up all ten fingers followed by three fingers.

Thirteen minutes, eh? Good, we need to get out of here, thought Aria. Into her phone, she said, “I’ve found Sonata. She’s with the Rainbooms and what’s more, I’ve infiltrated them! Unfortunately, to gain Sunset Shimmer’s trust, I had to show her our hideout at the aquarium.”

“That’s of no consequence. We have no need to go back to that dreary place. You’ve returned to form, Aria Blaze. I’m happy that I don’t need to worry about you going off the rails like Sonata did. So, let me tell you a little of my plan,” said Adagio Dazzle.

Aria winked at Pinkie Pie, who then disappeared from sight again. Aria continued her deception. In a cruel, mocking tone of voice she said, “I hope this plan takes a few obvious problems into account. In case you haven’t noticed, our connection to the Master has been lost along with our heart-pendants. And, as expected, Sonata’s all buddy-buddy with the Rainbooms.”

Adagio’s throaty laugh raised goosebumps on Aria’s purple tinted skin. She said, “Before my current difficulties, I seized Sunset Shimmer’s most treasured secrets from her apartment! She was a very naughty girl before that fledgling Equestrian princess appeared. I slipped a poisonous package into Rarity’s mailbox. By now, you should start to see fractures in the Rainbooms’ friendship.”

“Yeah, Baconhair and the Drama Queen had a huge dustup this morning. Rarity ran away in tears and hasn’t been seen at school since,” said Aria, giving a performance worthy of Sonata Dusk’s acting skills.

“Excellent! With luck, they will split into two camps, which will enable you to bring Sonata to me. Within the next few days, I will tell you when and where to meet me,” said Adagio, speaking with true confidence instead of her earlier bluster.

“So where are you, Adagio? Your text said you needed help and none of your stuff was at the aquarium,” inquired Aria.

Adagio Dazzle paused. She finally replied, “The Rainbooms aren’t our only rivals in this world. I received an offer of help from Ms. Raven, who maintains an identity as a teacher at the high school. I am a guest at her dwelling, but am restricted in my movements. Raven is actually a powerful undead creature who was also banished here by Starswirl the Bearded. I plan to use this banshee’s knowledge to restore my connection to He Who Swims in Darkness, breach the barrier between worlds and then betray Raven.”

“How exactly do you plan to do that, Adagio?” asked Aria, suppressing her terror and infusing her voice with disdainful skepticism.

“All will be revealed at the proper time, Aria. But, in the end, I will safeguard my subjects, offer my protection against the usurpers and will take my rightful place as Queen of the Aquastrian Empire. My first order of business upon our return will be the enslavement of the Equestrian alicorns, starting with the one that rules the night!” said Adagio with palpable determination.

Hearing Adagio’s direct threat to Luna, Aria clenched her free hand into a fist. Her fingernails dug painfully into her palm. Through clenched teeth, she said, “I need to go, but tell me when it’s time to protect you once again.”

“Your loyalty will be rewarded, Aria Blaze. You have our gratitude,” said Adagio regally. The connection broke and the call ended.

Aria sighed with relief and returned the phone to her pocket. Her shoulders slumped and her hands were trembling from a mix of fury and fright. Aria rushed to Pinkie Pie, who was watching the timer on the kiln count down. The two embraced silently.

Pinkie Pie whispered, “Aria, that was amazing! I can’t imagine how tough that was for you, but it worked like a charm. The doozy is gone, but my itchy nose tells me that we have to be super quiet while we get out of here.”

“I got it. Let’s get our stuff together, carefully pack the mold, and exit through the windows. I can see your car from here,” said Aria quietly. She pointed towards Pinkie Pie’s pink Coltswagen Beetle, which was the only car remaining in the student parking lot.

Pinkie Pie nodded in agreement, just as the kiln’s timer struck zero and its door unlocked. She pulled a fleece blanket out of her gym bag and spread it out on the tile floor. Wearing protective gloves as a precaution, Aria painstakingly removed the two halves of the cylindrical mold from of the kiln. The clay was uncomfortably warm, but not dangerously so. Her purple-hued fingers quickly verified that the artfully shaped inner surfaces were devoid of obvious cracks or defects. Aria and Pinkie Pie fit the pieces together, then carefully wrapped the mold in the soft blanket and further safeguarded it inside of the large bag.

The two girls seamlessly and silently choreographed their escape from the school. They packed their remaining items, including the books from Aquastria, into Aria’s borrowed backpack. Fortunately, the pottery lab was on the ground floor. Pinkie Pie rotated the heavy iron lock securing the large casement-style window and then swung the pane of glass and its aluminum frame inward. She tossed Aria’s borrowed backpack out of the window to the grass below.

Aria toted the gym bag and its precious cargo in her right hand and carried a chair in her left hand. Placing the chair next to the window, she motioned for Pinkie Pie to climb out the window. Either through agility or her natural disregard for the laws of physics, she landed perfectly. Pinkie Pie stuck her head through the opening and held out her hands to receive Chainbreaker’s mold. Aria placed the heavy bag into her waiting arms, buckling the other girl’s knees. She checked the room with wary purple eyes. Finally satisfied that they hadn’t left a single item behind, Aria Blaze clambered out of the window.

The two jogged across the parking lot as best they could, carrying their items to the waiting pink Coltswagen.

As the doors slammed shut, Pinkie broke her silence. She flashed a toothy grin at Aria and said, “You might want to buckle up and hang on tight.”

Aria Blaze fastened her safety belt and hugged the bag containing the mold to her chest. Pinkie Pie turned the ignition key, shifted the car into gear and floored the accelerator. In a peal of squealing tires, the Coltswagen screamed past the school on its way to Sweet Apple Acres.

“Now that’s what I call a sweet escape,” said Aria with a sardonic grin. Pinkie Pie exploded with laughter.

Rarity sighed contentedly as the last of the water drained from the bathtub. Her purple hair was contained in a towel that towered above her deep blue eyes. She shrugged into a luxurious bathrobe that was monogrammed and embroidered in violet. The sounds of the city had only just started to subside with the end of the business day.

Applying skin cream to her face, Rarity addressed her reflection in the bathroom mirror. “You would have lounged away the entire day, if not for Applejack. Still, because of your laziness, you’ve been forced to add a late night of sewing on top of last night’s sleeplessness.”

A loud knock from the suite’s door caught her attention. Sweetie Belle leaned against the doorway with a school notebook in one hand and her cell phone in the other.

“Yes, Sweetie Belle?” Rarity asked.

Her pale green eyes scrutinized her older sister. She looked her up and down before asking, “Are you all right now?”

Rarity smiled and nodded. “Yes, I am. It may take a bit more time, but I’ll be fine for the time being. Thank you for your kindness in asking.”

“Good, because I have a question for you!” said Sweetie Belle. She stuffed the cell phone back into her pocket.

“Yes?” Rarity raised a perfectly-sculpted eyebrow.

Sweetie Belle asked, “May I spend the night with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo in the clubhouse tomorrow night? I checked the weather. It’ll be a bit chilly and maybe there will be some fog, but there won’t be any rain.”

Rarity tapped her alabaster cheek with an index finger. “I don’t know about that. The three of you out in the woods by yourselves seems a little risky to me.”

“Come on, Rarity! When we went camping with you, Applejack and Rainbow Dash, you saw how well we can take care of ourselves! Besides, we’ll all have our cell phones, and the orchard is just down the road. Please, big sister!” Sweetie Belle said. She stuck out her bottom lip in a childish but effective pout.

After a brief pause, Rarity answered, “I suppose you will be fine, but no boys! Also, be sure to take your warm sleeping bag.”

“Thanks, Rarity! I’m so glad you said yes! After this morning, I was a little worried to ask you,” said the younger girl.

Rarity shooed her sister with both hands. “Don’t you worry about all that, Sweetie Belle. Please finish your homework and practice your singing. I have to catch up on some of the work I neglected today, starting with repairs to a very special gown.”

Sweetie Belle sped down the hallway to her room. Rarity heard the sound of a pencil being sharpened. Hearing other sounds of hasty schoolwork, she stifled a giggle with her hand. She removed the towel from her head and started brushing her hair.

Once again, Rarity spoke to herself, “I wonder what they’re all doing tonight? I just hope that they are safe.”

Shrieking Raven crept along the dark hallways of Canterlot High School. She had made effective use of her day, acquiring intelligence from students and teachers about the Rainbooms’ movements and Discord’s educationally-focused antics. Celestia’s bored administrative assistant was always a splendid source of information. Raven thought, How could he be here now and how could he possess an officially-sealed Equestrian recommendation from Twilight Sparkle?

The literature teacher had left her shoes in her classroom to silence her footfalls but kept her magical disguise in place. To an external observer, Shrieking Raven would appear to be working late and seeking a snack from the vending machine.

I need to find out why Pinkie Pie and Aria Blaze would stay in the art rooms all day. What are they guarding? Shrieking Raven wondered.

While it was a risk to leave Adagio Dazzle alone in her apartment, she needed to come to work. An absence from Canterlot High School at this moment would likely raise suspicions. She certainly didn’t want to give Principal Celestia or Vice Principal Luna cause to look into her background until her powers were fully restored.

Raven was confident that the sleeping draught she had slipped Adagio was potent enough to knock her out until mid-afternoon. Even if she awoke, the exiled Siren would find her note that politely warned Adagio to enjoy the comforts of the apartment without attempting to unlock any doors.

The banshee thought, If Adagio disregards my advice and snoops, she’ll trigger one of the traps and regret she ever left her bed.

A slow, silent orbit of the school’s first floor confirmed that she was the last staff member present. Aside from emergency lamps and exit signs, the only lights fully illuminated at CHS were in the art wing. With a skull’s predatory grin, Shrieking Raven silently padded her way towards the pottery lab.

Approaching the rays of light issuing from the rectangular window in the classroom’s door, the banshee heard a teenage voice. Shrieking Raven thought, While still weak, my scream will knock them unconscious and then I can learn what those girls are planning at my leisure.

Shrieking Raven stole a quick, stealthy glance through the window and her black eyes widened in amazement. Incredibly, it was Aria Blaze whom she saw, not Pinkie Pie. The Siren was speaking into one of the cell phones that Adagio Dazzle had insisted on leaving at the aquarium. The undead creature crouched beneath the window and listened intently.

Aria flipped her purple-and-teal pigtails and said, “It’s complicated, Adagio. I got hurt while I was following that sneaky little girl from the farm. But, I healed very quickly with some help.”

She’s talking to Adagio! Raven realized. She eagerly awaited Aria’s next response and was frustrated she could only hear half of the conversation.

“I’ve found Sonata. She’s with the Rainbooms and what’s more, I’ve infiltrated them!” Aria declared proudly. “Unfortunately, to gain Sunset Shimmer’s trust, I had to show her our hideout at the aquarium.”

This is better than I dared hope, thought Shrieking Raven. The Dazzlings are making the best of their second chance. If I play this game correctly and manage to put at least a second Siren in my pocket, I have a backup conduit to seize Leviathan’s power if Adagio proves unmanageable.

Raven heard Aria snidely rebuke Adagio. “I hope this plan takes a few obvious problems into account. In case you haven’t noticed, our connection to the Master has been lost along with our heart-pendants. And, as expected, Sonata’s all buddy-buddy with the Rainbooms.”

She wouldn’t have this conversation with Pinkie Pie in the room. Where could she be? I didn’t see her anywhere in the school, thought the banshee as she continued to eavesdrop. Perhaps she departed and left Aria alone.

“Yeah, Baconhair and the Drama Queen had a huge dustup this morning. Rarity ran away in tears and hasn’t been seen at school since,” said Aria, cruelty dripping from her voice.

Satisfied, Shrieking Raven silently skulked away towards her literature classroom. She thought, I needn’t risk revealing myself now. The Power of Harmony is broken due to Adagio’s masterful division of the Rainbooms. I’ll sit back and let those annoying girls self-destruct, while I draw as many of the Sirens as possible to me. Now, which of them should I destroy and which ones shall join me in undeath?

“Fluttershy, you and Scootaloo are our guests, so I’m mighty grateful that you helped Applejack and Apple Bloom fix dinner. This smells delicious!” said Big Macintosh, settling into the chair at the head of the dining room table.

Fluttershy blushed and let her pink hair fall across her face as she took a seat. “Thank you, Big Macintosh, but your sisters did most of the hard work.”

“Those rolls are my cooking debut! Prepare yourselves to taste my future as a celebrity chef!” said Scootaloo boldly.

Rainbow Dash ruffled Scootaloo’s hair. She said, “Squirt, I think you should stick with skateboarding and taking the classes you need to apply to the Academy. Besides, those are Apple Bloom’s rolls. Your cooking masterpiece is over there.” She pointed towards a dozen misshapen, half-burnt balls of dough that were left behind on the kitchen counter.

Applejack and Apple Bloom brought the remaining serving dishes and set them on the table. As fast as Sonata Dusk was with farm chores, she had fallen behind while setting the table. She trailed after the Apple sisters with a stack of plates.

Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow when she noticed Sonata Dusk subtly brush her hand along Big Macintosh’s shoulders as she placed his plate. She leaned towards Scootaloo and whispered, “Did you see that?”

“What was I supposed to see?” said Scootaloo, impatiently reaching for a dinner roll.

Applejack reached over and lightly slapped the back of Scootaloo’s hand and said, “Wait until we’re all here and we’ve said the blessing, Scootaloo. It’s only polite!”

Still wiping her hands on a kitchen towel, a happy Sunset Shimmer followed Discord into the dining room. Smiling pleasantly, she said, “This is quite a spread! I thought that we had our feast for Winter Wrap Up last month!”

“…and all things warm and green…” sang Discord quietly. He began giggling but was silenced by Sunset Shimmer’s sharp elbow in his ribs. Discord protested. “Hey, I was just enjoying the moment!”

The party of nine finished getting themselves comfortable in the infrequently-used dining room chairs. In the absence of Granny Smith, Big Macintosh sat at the head of the table. To his right sat Applejack, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash. Sonata Dusk sat to Big Macintosh’s left. Fluttershy, Discord and Sunset Shimmer filled the remaining chairs and left the tenth seat at the foot of the table empty.

The group joined hands. Sunset Shimmer stretched across the table and over the food to reach Rainbow Dash. Discord seemed ready to make a comment, but snapped his mouth shut at a glance from Fluttershy. At a nod from Big Mac, Apple Bloom said a simple blessing and the serving dishes started around the table with blinding speed.

“Mr. Discord, I hear that you’re a teacher from the same place Twilight lives,” said Big Mac, opening conversation after a few minutes had passed.

Discord swallowed a bite of mashed potatoes and said, “I’ll admit that it’s been a long time since I’ve led any sort of structured lesson, but yes, I’m here to teach.”

“Twilight sent him to give me some private tutoring,” said Sunset Shimmer. She leaned forward in an effort to break into the conversation.

Big Mac folded his hands in his lap and frowned. “It seems that every time a stranger suddenly appears at Canterlot High, unnatural trouble isn’t far behind. Applejack convinced me, but I’m still not too sure about your using Pa’s forge.”

During the uncomfortable silence, Applejack looked at Rainbow Dash, Sunset Shimmer and finally Discord. She turned to her brother and asked, “Instead of giving him grief, don’t you think you should let Discord try to explain in his own way?”

The young farmer’s expression softened. He nodded, held out his right hand and said simply, “Please do.”

Discord stood and pushed in his chair. He said, “I have, as you would put it, unnatural abilities with chaotic forces. As such, I am able to perceive dangers, instruct others and perform actions that are otherwise impossible. My purpose here is to help Sunset Shimmer safeguard Canterlot from a grave threat I won’t explain here. Our safety requires that I advise her while she uses a forge to create some unique items.”

“And, before I forget, we are humbled by and are deeply appreciative of your letting us use your father’s smithy, especially now that we’ve seen it for what it truly is,” interrupted Sunset Shimmer.

Discord met Big Macintosh’s skeptical gaze and continued. “Chaos, in and of itself, is not evil. It’s just disorganized, especially so to those that must see time and space in a linear fashion.”

Fluttershy noticed Big Mac’s eyes narrow. She clutched Discord’s wrist and suggested, “Um, maybe you should try telling him a story instead.”

“Thank you,” said Discord. His red eyes looked down at Fluttershy with an unexpected air of kindness.

“Big Macintosh, as a life-long farmer, you will appreciate this. Life – all life – has an element of chaos to it. Some have more chaos than others, of course,” he said with a self-mocking smile. “You channel this chaos to your benefit, feeding thousands and providing monetary resources for your family.”

Discord transformed his suit into a white laboratory coat and matching pants. He reached inside the coat and produced an enormous red-and-yellow streaked apple, which he handed to Sonata.

“Yummy! Thanks, Discord,” squealed Sonata Dusk.

The Spirit of Chaos continued. “For example, the Honeycrisp apples you grow are a healthy and delicious agricultural hybrid. They are but one product of beneficial chaos. Weather and all of nature’s beauty – and its wrath – are driven by the tension between order and chaos.”

To punctuate his point, Discord snapped his fingers and his outfit transformed to that of a park ranger with a wide-brimmed hat. He walked around the table, snatched Rainbow Dash’s dinner roll and changed it into a tiny storm cloud that floated above her head and dripped rain onto her multicolored locks.

“Hey! I didn’t need a second shower today!” complained Rainbow Dash.

“But, chaos is the impulse that starts progress,” said Discord, who pointedly ignored Rainbow Dash. “More important than farming, chaos feeds both lust and love.”

He placed a hand on Apple Bloom’s shoulder and suddenly she carried a tiny bow and arrows tipped with plastic hearts. She was dressed in a ridiculous white toga with plastic wings.

Scootaloo laughed and said, “Be careful where you point that thing!”

“None of you would be here without ‘the momentary lapse of reason that binds a life for life,’ as a favorite poet of mine wrote some time ago.” Discord now wore a black T-shirt with a triangular prism dividing a ray of light into all the colors of the rainbow. His hair was held back by a broad cloth headband and his sideburns extended almost all the way to his chin.

He continued speaking to his now-enraptured audience. “Fluttershy confronts chaotic influences on existence every day. Most notably, she deals with the inexplicable life and death of numerous creatures with the utmost kindness and thoughtfulness.” Almost imperceptibly, Discord inclined his head respectfully to the shy, pink-haired girl.

Fluttershy blushed and sank deeply into her chair, but continued to listen.

Discord pointed at Sunset Shimmer and said, “Given her tumultuous past, she walks the line between order, chaos, good and evil every time she looks into the mirror. Still, she has grown into a leader and makes choices her former mentor would be very proud of.” He placed his hand over his heart and looked at the former unicorn. “Trust me when I say that I know very well what it is like to be haunted by my prior decisions.”

Sonata Dusk’s half-lidded eyes opened wide upon hearing Discord’s last statement. She set her napkin in her lap and chewed her lower lip nervously. Fluttershy stared at the Spirit of Chaos with her mouth slightly open and her pale yellow hand pressed against her chest.

“So, Big Macintosh, have I, despite being an unnatural, mysterious individual, explained myself to your satisfaction?” asked Discord with a wry smile.

After a long pause, the young farmer stood and extended his right hand to Discord. He said, “You sure have. Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres.”

The two shook hands as the dining room erupted in impromptu applause. Discord, who had started to sweat and breathe heavily as if he were exerting himself, snapped his fingers and everyone returned to their normal appearance. The raincloud simply evaporated. Everyone returned to their seats and resumed eating. Discord took a long drink of water.

The food continued to disappear as the group indulged in much more mundane conversation, punctuated by the sounds of silverware on plates. Near the end of dinner Applejack asked, “Sunset Shimmer, do you need anything out at the smithy?”

“Yes, I do. Thanks, Applejack. I’m missing one important item. I need some holy water and I know your church is nearby. Could someone help me out?” said Sunset Shimmer.

Apple Bloom waved her hands. She said, “Big sis, Scootaloo and I are all over it. We know that churchyard like the backs of our hands.” She looked across the table. “Sonata, will you come with us?”

“Um, I don’t know. I sort of had something planned,” she said and stole a sideways glance in Big Macintosh’s direction.

Scootaloo said, “Please, Sonata! It won’t take very long, and we need to get there and back before the sun goes down. Besides, it gets us all out of washing the dishes!” The whole table laughed loudly.

Sonata smiled and replied, “All right, little one. I’ll come with you.”

“I only need about a pint. Don’t overdo it like you usually do and try to talk the minister into giving you his entire supply. Got it?” instructed Sunset, who gave the two younger girls a stern look to stress the task’s importance. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom nodded in agreement.

Two seats away, Fluttershy whispered to Discord, “I had no idea that you understood so much about how hard I try to care for the creatures that need my help! Thank you for saying such nice things in front of everyone.” She smiled sweetly.

“Fluttershy, my dear friend, I won’t tell you even the beginning of what I’ve been through recently. Even a temporary loss of cosmic power is difficult to swallow or explain. That said, these traumatic experiences have given me perspective into just how valuable kindness is in an often cruel universe.” Discord patted her hand. “I know you’ll grow, but please don’t change.”

Sonata Dusk said, “Keep that guitar tuned. I’ll be back soon.”

“Come on, Sonata! I don’t want to freeze my tail off during the walk back from the church,” shouted Apple Bloom’s distant voice.

Big Macintosh smiled uncomfortably under the lilac-eyed gaze. He simply replied, “Eeyup.”

Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Applejack were already hard at work cleaning the kitchen. Sunset Shimmer and Discord had returned to the smithy and the two younger girls waited impatiently outside. Big Macintosh adjusted the collar of his shirt as he wiped down the dining room table alone.

Sonata zipped up her gray hooded sweatshirt and bounded outside.

“What’s taking you so long? We have an adventure happening right under our noses and all you want to do is talk!” said Scootaloo. She sprinted ahead about thirty yards as Apple Bloom and Sonata Dusk walked briskly behind.

“Apple Bloom,” said Sonata, placing a hand on the other girl’s back, “conversation doesn’t have to be boring. It can be really exciting when I mix up words with other things that I do. You competed in the Battle of the Bands, right?”

“That didn’t go so well,” called Scootaloo.

Apple Bloom said, “Yeah, we got knocked out in the first round.”

“Too bad, so sad!” Sonata winked and smiled to make it clear that she was joking. “Seriously, think about the groups that did well. Didn’t they combine singing and dancing and some other stuff?” The pair caught up with Scootaloo and the three of them made the turn on to the main road.

“They sure did! Trixie even pulled off a fireworks show, even though her dancing wasn’t as good as yours,” said Apple Bloom.

Sonata skipped ahead of the two younger girls, turned around and walked backwards. “Maybe this will make talking less boring. Listen to the cool things that I can do with words, my voice and my gestures that can get your attention! So, listen to this and tell me who I am and where we are.”

Sonata Dusk removed her hood and draped her long blue hair over her left shoulder. Her backward steps became long regal strides and her gestures elegant. The two-lane road was her stage and Apple Bloom and Scootaloo her audience:

“Out of this wood do not desire to go:
Thou shalt remain here, whether thou wilt or no.
I am a spirit of no common rate;
The summer still doth tend upon my state;
And I do love thee: therefore, go with me;
I'll give thee fairies to attend on thee,
And they shall fetch thee jewels from the deep,
And sing while thou on pressed flowers dost sleep;
And I will purge thy mortal grossness so
That thou shalt like an airy spirit go.”

In an eyeblink, Sonata turned around and linked her arms with the two younger girls. She said, “So, who am I and where were we?”

“That was so cool! How did you learn to do that?” said Apple Bloom. She shook her head and remembered to answer the question. “Um, you were in a magical forest? It was all in the first part.”

“Correct!” Sonata squeezed Apple Bloom’s arm with a smile. “What do you think, Scootaloo?”

The orange-skinned girl scratched at her dark pink hair and pressed her lips together. She finally answered, “You were a fairy princess. The whole ‘fairies to attend on thee’ bit gave me the hint, but you moved just like royalty!”

Sonata was positively giddy. “Yes! I knew you were both so smart! Technically, I was a fairy queen, but close enough.”

“So, what’s the story with this?” asked Apple Bloom.

“A long time ago, I helped a writer with a story that he turned into a play.” Sonata frowned. “I told him my hopes and dreams and he turned it into a comedy instead! He said something about ‘A Siren’s love doth end in sorrow, sweet Sonata. ‘Tis best to give Titania your best speeches but transform the rest into absurdity.’ Oooooh!” She shook in rage at the memory.

Worriedly, Scootaloo said, “Focus, Sonata.”

“Oh, yes, the scene.” Sonata Dusk composed herself and continued. “It was supposed to be about Queen Titania of the Sirens falling in love with a handsome young blacksmith who had become trapped in the magical forest. In this scene, she’s begging him not to leave the wood.”

“That sounds like a cute love story,” said Apple Bloom.

Sonata was still walking arm in arm with the two girls. She shrugged her shoulders. “My story was a magnificent and it would have been a romance for the ages. But William had to mess it up so the audience of the time would like it more. Anyway, do you get my point?”

“Yeah, we get it. Talking isn’t boring if you actually do something with what you say!” said Scootaloo as they made a left turn on to the church grounds.

“Close enough, I guess!” said Sonata with a smile. She released the girls’ arms and the three strolled up the church’s driveway as daylight began to yield to sunset.

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom exchanged meaningful looks as they walked by the well-tended cemetery on the left side of the asphalt driveway. The church’s steeple, containing a brass bell that brilliantly reflected the sun’s rays, reached up forty feet into the sky. The trio ascended a handful of marble steps and Apple Bloom opened the large wooden door to the stone church.

“Hello! It’s Scootaloo!” she called into the sanctuary.

Sonata Dusk had been in many human temples and houses of worship over the course of her long exile from Aquastria. Not even the anciently grand buildings across the ocean had ever given her the sense of peace, comfort and safety that enveloped her the moment she stepped across the threshold into this church.

“Why don’t you come up here, Scootaloo? I’m a little occupied at the moment in my office,” said a deep, friendly voice.

The church’s pews were made of rich, dark wood and reflected the light filtering through exquisite stained glass windows. Though the building could comfortably seat a congregation of 150, it felt cozy and warm. The trio ascended stairs to the balcony. A small office was squeezed behind two rows of pews.

The moment Sonata’s eyes fell on the church’s shepherd, she immediately understood why the church was so inviting and clean. The minister was a tall, athletic man who appeared to be in his late fifties. His short, brown hair was neatly cut and his deep brown eyes twinkled with pleasure.

He smiled broadly at the two younger girls and motioned them into his office. “Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, what brings you here on a Thursday afternoon?” The priest stepped down from a stool where he was hanging a painting. He brushed his hands off on his immaculately pressed black trousers and adjusted his white clerical collar.

“Hi, Father Scorpan!” said Scootaloo, who rushed forward and gave the big man a crushing hug.

Sonata looked around the office, which was strangely devoid of religious symbols but held numerous paintings. There was something vaguely familiar about the fantastic portrait that Scorpan has just finished hanging. It depicted a castle perched on the side of a mountain, but she couldn’t place the castle’s name. An ornate full-length mirror with a gilded frame seemed somewhat out of place in the corner of the room. Despite the odd collection of paintings and keepsakes, Sonata’s eyes were drawn to the desk, where a ceramic figurine of a red-skinned centaur with twin horns rested.

Smiling, Scorpan said, “It’s great to see you both, but could you introduce me to your friend?”

“This is Sonata. She’s new around here,” said Apple Bloom proudly.

Scorpan’s light brown fingers engulfed Sontata’s delicate blue hand. “Sonata Dusk, welcome to my church. I hope you may see it as a place of safety, learning and inspiration.” His friendly brown eyes developed a laser-like focus. “I sense that we have more than a few things in common.”

“The paintings in your office are very beautiful, sir. I used to paint a little,” replied Sonata. Under the piercing gaze, her voice had become uncertain and childlike.

Scootaloo moved between the two while waving an aluminum water bottle. “Excuse me, but I would like to make an important request, Father Scorpan.”

“Forgive me! I was so pleased to have unexpected visitors that I didn’t even ask why you were here,” said the minister, his friendly smile returning. He spread his arms wide. “How can I help you?”

Apple Bloom stood at attention and respectfully asked, “Father Scorpan, may we take a bottle full of holy water to our friend Sunset Shimmer? She needs it for a very important project.”

Scorpan nodded vigorously and handed Apple Bloom a small silver key. “Of course, child. The font is just inside the sanctuary. Please make sure the lid is closed tightly when you’re done and leave the key there. I’ll pick it up when I leave to go to the parsonage.”

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom hurried out of the office in an effort to complete their quest for Sunset Shimmer. Scorpan resumed his appraisal of Sonata. He walked to his desk and placed a finger on the centaur statuette.

“When I first came to Canterlot, I missed my brother very much. He made some terrible mistakes and is still imprisoned for them. I blamed myself for causing his incarceration, so I left my home, came here and then stayed,” said Scorpan regretfully.

Sonata took a step towards the door. “That’s terrible!”

The minister continued. “It has taken me a very long time to realize that they were his choices that turned him to evil. Fortunately, I found a calling here in my new home that permits me to forgive my brother and to do good for others. I have sworn to serve in this place instead of taking an active leading role, but I believe it’s permissible to tell you one thing and show you another.”

Sonata’s lilac eyes narrowed in curiosity. She took a step forward into the office and said, “What’s that?”

Scorpan took a step towards Sonata and his twinkling brown eyes bored into her soul. “First, let me give you one piece of knowledge. Your brother believed in you. He believed in you so much it changed the world. It’s long past time that you believed in yourself. Cast away the dark mask that clouds your mind and become that which you are destined to be.”

“Father Scorpan, I…” Sonata gasped and was unable to complete her sentence.

Scorpan pushed past Sonata and spryly ran to the pipe organ. “Follow me! The children are eager to leave, so I’ll show you just a tiny glimpse of the potential I see in you!”

Sonata sprinted down the stairs and stood in the center of the church. Her mouth dropped open in awe of the beautiful mixture of light and shadow that danced around her. A crimson sunset shimmered through the stained glass windows as the mysterious priest caused the pipes to come to life. In a strong baritone, he sang a melody that she had heard on one of the discs she had borrowed from Cheerilee’s library, but the words were different:

Mortals, join the happy chorus,
Which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us,
Brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward,
Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us Sunward
In the triumph song of life.

Scorpan stopped playing, turned to Sonata, smiled and said, “Please return any time you need help or desire inspiration, Sonata Dusk. Your friends are waiting.”

Filled with purpose, Sonata strode towards the entrance. As she exited the church and jogged to catch up with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, she grinned and thought, It is time to fulfill my destiny and become royalty! It’s almost funny that my destiny will begin in a basement. Suddenly, her smile disappeared and she glanced back at the church and the light burning in Father Scorpan’s office.

Aloud, Sonata wondered, “How did he know my last name? They never told him.” She stopped, and her blue-tinged hand went to her throat. “…and nobody alive in this world knows I have a brother except for Aria.”

Nausea gripped the pit of Sonata Dusk’s stomach as she resumed walking. She saw Scorpan’s piercing brown eyes in her mind’s eye during the entire walk back to Sweet Apple Acres.

*****
Discord quotes two lines of Pink Floyd’s “One Slip” from the album A Momentary Lapse of Reason.

Sonata’s monologue was delivered by Queen Titania during Act III, Scene 1 of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Scorpan’s hymn is the final verse of “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” by Henry J. van Dyke, which in turn is an adaptation of “Ode to Joy”, which is featured in Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

Author's Note

It's shaping up to be an unforgettable Friday night for Sunset Shimmer, her friends and her enemies. I hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing an update that involved nearly the entire cast along with a final-scene surprise!

IsabellaAmoreSirenix, thank you for the late-night collaboration sessions! You're a skilled editor and good friend and I appreciate your wise counsel. Also, welcome to Silvernite87, who took the time to offer advice as a prereader over the weekend!

I hope your work week or school week is off to a good start. Now that IDW Comics has announced an April 15 release of the Sirens' origin story, I briefly thought that it would be a noble goal to finish Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer by then, so that the world constructed here doesn't rudely conflict with the "official" story. After reflection, I fear that my current rate of one chapter per two weeks won't permit me to complete the story by that date. I'll do my best, but I'm not optimistic.

Please accept my enduring, deep and abiding gratitude for continuing to read (and hopefully enjoy) this adventure. I look forward to future discussion with all of you through comments and private messages as I continue work on Chapter 15. Thank you!

Chapter Fifteen

“Stand back, sugar cube! A coal fire isn’t something you mess around with,” said Applejack.

Sunset Shimmer and Discord stepped away from the forge as the blonde farmgirl ignited the fuel. Yellow flames danced across the substantial pile of coal and heat began to build throughout the smithy.

“Thanks for coming out here, Applejack. I know what I need to do, but not how this particular forge works. I can’t exactly cast a wind spell here. So how do you increase the airflow to make the fire hotter?” asked Sunset Shimmer. She had removed her leather jacket and donned a long-sleeved protective shirt over her normal clothing. Sunset carefully rolled the sleeves to make the garment fit as well as it could.

Discord chortled and playfully said, “The better question to ask is ‘So, Applejack, how did you manage to use this simple task to trick Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash into doing the dishes?’ That was masterful!”

“Somebody needed to help you out here, and firing the forge is a mite harder than snapping your fingers,” explained Applejack. “Sunset, the electric fans for supply and exhaust should be able to give you enough air to get the fire hot enough to coke the coal and melt just about anything you need to make that mace. They’re both powerful and reliable. If you need a bit more air, you’ve seen where the bellows are kept. Is there anything else?”

Sunset Shimmer picked up the branch from the Golden Oak Library. “I have an important job for you, since you’re so good with wood. This is going to be the handle for the mace. I need you to look at the scale drawing and get the diameter right. We’ll need a space for a wedge and some holes for rivets to make sure the head doesn’t fly off the first time Aria swings it.”

“Really? Well, I’ll do whatever I can to help, especially with something this important,” said Applejack. She sprang into action and rummaged through a toolbox underneath one of the workbenches. Applejack emerged with several items, including a chisel, a drill, roughly two dozen drill bits, a whittling knife and a whetstone.

Discord nodded admiringly, stroking his beard. “I’m glad someone around here thinks practically. In Equestria, I’m sure Celestia would have had some grand ritual for boring a hole through a branch! We don’t have time for that sort of pomposity.” He took off his jacket and set it carefully on the couch with Fluttershy’s lapel pin still attached. Discord donned one of the leather aprons and his shirt transformed into a garishly colored copy of Sunset’s garb.

“Thanks, I think,” said Applejack. She looked at Discord suspiciously before turning back towards Sunset Shimmer. “I’m regretting not making it down here much before my parents were killed. Back then, I was in a girly-girl phase and had too many wrongheaded dreams about moving to Manehattan and living with my kin. I know it would make Pa smile to see me working here tonight.”

Sunset Shimmer slipped a leather apron over her head, patted Applejack’s shoulder and said, “As I mentioned at dinner, I’m grateful for the privilege to work here. Speaking of work, I’ll make the wedge for the handle first. It’s the metal piece that holds the head of a wood axe or carpentry hammer in place. It’s the perfect piece to refresh my memory and test the equipment.”

Discord sighed and rolled his red eyes. Annoyance dripped from his voice as he said, “I suppose you should practice with something easy, especially since the mold’s not here yet. Have you ever worked with Crystal Empire star iron before?”

“Of course not! When I left Equestria, the Crystal Empire was a lost legend and only a handful of ponies even knew about it,” she replied, selecting a hammer and a set of tongs.

Discord’s brown hair was suddenly covered by a policeman’s cap. He blew on a silver whistle and held up his right hand, palm out. “Slow down, Sunset Shimmer. There are many reasons for this metal being so prized and expensive. When first heated, it’s very malleable and easy to work with. It’s an unparalleled conductor of magical energy, but it’s fickle.”

“That metal sounds like someone I am getting to know,” quipped Applejack as she made carefully measured pencil marks on one end of Chainbreaker’s handle.

He ignored the farmgirl and continued. “Unlike other metals, this type of star iron only wants to be heated or melted once. It’s very malleable at first, but once you shape it and let it cool, it’s nearly adamantine in its hardness.”

Sunset Shimmer stroked her chin and said, “Hm, I see the similarity to volcanic and metamorphic rock crystals. The first dose of heat creates them. The second would shatter them. Where’s Pinkie’s dad when you need him?”

“Uncover the anvil. I want to see this!” said Applejack excitedly. She wiped sweat from her forehead as the heat rapidly built inside the smithy.

Discord, again attired in his protective clothing, removed a tarp from the anvil. He said, “If you ever get a chance to learn more about the Crystal Empire you’ll learn that this stuff,” he gestured towards the pile of star iron ingots, “is what kept the evil King Sombra in power for so long.”

Applejack fanned herself and interrupted the history lesson. “Do you mind if I open up the doors and windows?”

“Oh, please do! And, while you’re up, could you start filling the slack tub with water?” asked Sunset Shimmer. Her green-blue eyes were twinkling with excitement. She seemed nearly impervious to the heat, ignoring the sweat that was already dripping down her cheeks.

Discord smiled as Applejack ran outside with a large bucket. His leather apron suddenly sported the words “Multiverse’s Best Teacher.” He said, “You’re as happy in front of that forge as Twilight Sparkle is in her library.”

“I’ve missed this. More than I want to admit,” she replied.

Discord chuckled and lowered his safety goggles. “At least I volunteered to help a pony of action. Your friends and the Sirens are anything but boring.”

“Coming from you, I’ll take that as a compliment,” said Sunset Shimmer. “Well, it’s time to get to work!”

She flicked the switch for the forge’s fans. The increased airflow immediately intensified the blaze. She took a deep breath, used the tongs to pinch a single small ingot of star iron and thrust it into the hottest part of the fire.

“We’re back!” cheerfully called Apple Bloom.

Rainbow Dash smirked and threw a dishtowel to the younger girl. “Good! You’re just in time to get drying. Where’s Scootaloo?”

“She took the holy water and went straight to the place where Sunset Shimmer is working,” said Sonata Dusk as she entered the kitchen. Her blue cheeks were pale and she was holding a hand to her stomach.

Fluttershy pulled her arms out of the sink and carefully looked Sonata up and down. “Are you all right?” she asked.

“Thanks, Fluttershy. I just have an upset stomach. I probably ate too much.” She smiled weakly as her eyes darted from side to side. “I’ll go take a quick bath.” Sonata turned on her heel and jogged up the stairs.

Apple Bloom shrugged her shoulders and said, “Sonata’s been acting funny ever since we left the church. She was all smiles and happy talk on the way there, then barely said a word on the way back! Hold on, I’ll get these put away in the china cabinet.” She vigorously rubbed a wet plate with the towel, then took the towering stack of dishes into the dining room.

After Applebloom left the kitchen, Rainbow Dash put away a cookie sheet and turned towards Fluttershy. “Hey, when I talked with Sunset in the music room today, I realized I forgot something pretty important this weekend.”

Fluttershy yanked the stopper free from the bottom of the sink. She dried her arms and hands as the soapy water went down the drain. “What’s that?” she asked uncertainly.

“When Sunset was telling me and Applejack about all that business with the flowers and Rarity’s dad, I kept thinking about what joke I should crack next. I assumed that just because she’s tough and plays guitar that we were alike,” said Rainbow Dash. Her forehead creased with concentration.

Fluttershy raised an eyebrow and crossed her arms. “Is that because you just wanted to laugh off her problems or because you thought Sunset just needed to laugh off her problems?”

“No, neither one! The whole thing was almost a huge mistake and I’m glad Applejack interrupted,” said Rainbow Dash, shaking her head. “What I remembered is that it’s awesome we’re all so different. You and I have been friends for so long because I rush in and then you fix what I break if I screw up. I should listen to you more often.”

Cautiously, Fluttershy replied, “I don’t know about that, but thank you all the same.”

“Hey, I’ll just say it: I’m sorry that I ignored you and didn’t use your songs for the band.” She threw both arms above her head. “And I’m sorry I hurt your feelings because I got too caught up on creating epic moments for myself,” she said, dropping her arms to her sides and looking at the floor.

Tucking a strand of pink hair behind her ear, Fluttershy approached Rainbow Dash and hugged her. “It’s all right. I know you get carried away sometimes, but you always choose to do the right thing in the end.”

“But, I really screwed up during the Battle of the Bands!” she replied, returning the hug.

“I’ve already moved past that. I will always see you as the one who stood up for me against those awful boys on the playground so long ago. You showed your true colors when you skipped that soccer tournament last year and spent the weekend helping me build all those animal houses,” said Fluttershy. She smiled kindly and broke the embrace. “Then, you did it again when you helped me carry Aria out of the woods.”

Rainbow Dash’s brash smile returned. She gave Fluttershy’s shoulder a playful punch and changed the subject. “So, what’s with you and the crazy teacher from another world?”

“Eeep!” Fluttershy’s pale yellow face took on a decidedly pink hue. She demurely shifted her weight from one foot to the other and played with a stray lock of hair. “He’s just so nice to me. We had a great talk about Angel Bunny and the other animals in the music room, and he was so wonderful at dinner.”

Rainbow Dash smiled and chuckled. “Oh, he’s charming all right,” she said sarcastically. “But have you thought about the gigantic age difference? Forget eighteen! He’s like 18,000 years old!”

“Rainbow Dash! You can’t mean…” While seemingly impossible, Fluttershy’s blush became even deeper.

“Hey, I'm just happy to see you spend some time thinking about creatures other than animals. You know there are ones with two legs and the ability to talk, right?” she said. Rainbow Dash smiled sarcastically. “But that fang might be tough to manage.”

Apple Bloom returned to the kitchen and unwittingly rescued Fluttershy by interrupting. “All done! What’s next?”

“Since you missed all the scrubbing, you’re going to wipe down the counters,” said Rainbow Dash. “Fluttershy and I are going to have a bottle of fizzy apple cider.” She reached into the refrigerator, twisted off the caps, handed one bottle to Fluttershy and took a big swig from her bottle.

The sounds of an acoustic guitar drifted up from the basement and broke the silence. As each string was individually tuned, the pitch changed slightly. As the tuning grew into chords, Apple Bloom shut the basement door.

“This is the second night in a row they’ve been down there singing,” said Apple Bloom. She raised an eyebrow suspiciously. “Sonata’s been awfully good to me, but she’s been mighty friendly with my brother.”

Fluttershy took a sip of her cider and sat at the kitchen table. “Sonata’s had a rough week. She seems so sweet but I can tell that there is still something big bothering her.”

“Hey, maybe what she’s doing with Mac is like music therapy or something! Singing with Sweetie Belle really helped her voice come back and cheered her up,” said Rainbow Dash, who joined Fluttershy at the table. “Besides, the dude’s an oak! He’s totally in love with Cheerilee!”

Apple Bloom finished cleaning the kitchen. She reached into her book bag, grabbed her homework and frowned. Apple Bloom turned to the two older girls and said, “I don’t know. Something has changed with both of them in the past couple of days, but I can’t put my finger on it.”

“It’ll be fine! When you look at Sonata Dusk, do you see the face of evil? I sure don’t! Besides, Adagio’s the one we have to worry about,” said Rainbow Dash confidently.

Fluttershy gathered the deck of cards and slipped them back into the pack. “I’m sorry, girls, but I have to get back to the cottage soon. I’m sure the animals are all very hungry.”

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom groaned. Scootaloo said, “But, I want to play again! How do you two keep winning?”

“Fluttershy can beat anyone at euchre. You might think you can win and then she gives you ‘The Stare!’” said Rainbow Dash dramatically. She rose from her chair, placed both palms on the table and leaned forward. “It’s a lost cause after she does that!” She smiled and laughed with the two younger girls.

The shy girl was poised to give a self-deprecating response. Just as she was about to speak, she was interrupted by the sound of tires on gravel. Outside, a custom car horn blared a loud and cheerful tune.

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom echoed the horn and sang the lyrics in unison. “My name is Pinkieeee Pieee!” They ran for the front door, and Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy followed behind them.

The pink Coltswagen Beetle simply came to a screeching halt in the center of the gravel courtyard between the farmhouse and the equipment barn. The hasty parking job ignored the Apples’ normal parking area to the side of the house. Bright floodlights, triggered by the car’s approach, dispelled the nighttime darkness and illuminated Pinkie Pie, who was jumping in a circle around her car with an ecstatic grin on her face. Meanwhile, Aria Blaze carefully set a large gym bag on the ground as she exited the passenger seat. Her pigtails obscured her face.

The four girls from the farmhouse looked at the new arrivals with amazement. As Aria stood and her face became visible, everyone was shocked to see that she and Pinkie Pie were laughing raucously.

“Who is that, and what did it do with Aria? She never laughs!” said Rainbow Dash.

Pinkie was the first to recover her voice. “We did it! We finished baking the mold!” She pointed at Aria. “And, because you lost the bet, I get to take the mold to Sunset Shimmer.”

“I don’t remember making a bet, but if you want to take all the credit, just go ahead,” replied Aria with a smirk. Her mirth was fading and she adopted her normally dour visage and wary mannerisms.

Pinkie grabbed the gym bag and started down the path. Before she passed into the darkness behind the barn, Rainbow Dash sprinted and handed her a flashlight.

“So, Aria, what sort of bet did you make with Pinkie?” asked Rainbow Dash. Her feet had found a partially-deflated soccer ball, and she began to play.

Aria groaned and crossed her arms. “I don’t want to talk about it.” Her eyes focused over Rainbow Dash’s shoulder and into the equipment barn. She turned to Apple Bloom and asked, “What’s in there?”

“Farm vehicles, harvesting equipment, hand tools, chemicals and a dozen other types of things you need to run an orchard. Why?” asked Apple Bloom.

Aria looked at Fluttershy and gave her a knowing half-smile. She said, “Fluttershy, you know how much I hate waiting. I’ve had my fill of sitting around today.”

“I have to get back to my house to feed the animals. I saw what you did to my chicken coop with my baseball bat, so I think I’ll pass on the type of fun I think you’re talking about,” she nervously replied.

Courteously, Aria said, “I’m sorry I messed up the coop, Fluttershy, and I completely understand why you need to go. Thank you very much for your hospitality last night.” Her face contorted into an exaggerated, comical sneer as she turned to Rainbow Dash. “Do you want to put that ball away and play my sort of game while we wait?”

“No offense. Aria, but the only games I’ve heard of you playing are evil mind control and breaking stuff,” replied Rainbow Dash, who forgot about the ball as she backed away from Aria.

One of Aria’s eyes closed in an unnerving wink and she flashed a predatory grin. “None taken, Rainbow Dash. But, this is the sort of breaking stuff that I think will be right up your alley! So, tell me, when was the last time you were in a fight?”

“Special delivery!” shouted Pinkie Pie as she banged on the smithy’s doorframe.

Discord and Sunset Shimmer were resting their eyes on the couch. Discord’s head was tipped back and he was snoring loudly. Sunset had folded her hands beneath her head against one of the armrests. Applejack, seated on the cot, put a finger to her lips. While keeping a careful eye on the forge fire, she was putting the finishing touches on Chainbreaker’s handle with a piece of fine-grain sandpaper. She was smoothing the length of Equestrian oak with light, feathering strokes. At first, the wood had seemed ordinary, but stripped of its bark and charred patina, the branch showed subtle, unearthly loops and whorls within the grain.

Applejack pointed at Sunset and said, “She’s barely slept in two days, so let’s wake them gently.”

“But what about him?” Pinkie Pie jerked her head at Discord, and then winked at Applejack.

The farmgirl shook her head. She said, “I’ve seen some of what he can do over the past couple of hours. He’s hilarious when in a good mood. I wouldn’t want to meet Discord if he woke up on the wrong side of the bed.”

“Wakey-wakey…” Pinkie, smiling mischievously, nudged Discord’s shoulder.

The Spirit of Chaos gave an immense snork then started to stir. Half-asleep, he said, “…just five more minutes, Tia. Don’t the kids know it’s Saturday?”

Pinkie Pie suppressed a giggle and played along. “It’s your turn to make pancakes, honey. They can watch cartoons while you drink coffee, but you need to get up!”

Discord turned his head towards the voice. As his eyes opened and focused on Pinkie, he jumped in embarrassment and then erupted with amusement, waking Sunset Shimmer.

“Element of Laughter, indeed! I thought your polychromatic friend was the expert at practical jokes, but you just gave her a run for her money!” said Discord, stretching his arms above his head.

Sunset Shimmer rubbed her eyes and blinked repeatedly. Suddenly, she leapt up and asked excitedly, “Is that the mold? Is it done?”

“You betcha!” said Pinkie Pie. She nodded vigorously, and her pink curls quivered as she set the bag softly on the floor.

Applejack cleared a space on the workbench while Sunset Shimmer opened the gym bag and carefully unpacked the mold. Tears collected at the corners of her eyes as she set each half on the workbench and carefully examined the inner surfaces. She slipped her leather apron on again and made sure that her red-and-gold hair hadn’t escaped the hastily twisted bun on the back of her head.

Sunset Shimmer said, “Thank you. It’s not perfect, but it’s ours. We all did this together.”

“Now comes the truly difficult part. To make what you have designed, you must be careful. The star iron, while heated, will act as a base. I recommend you collect all the reagents in a separate container, crush them together, and then add them to the molten metal all at once,” said Discord.

Pinkie Pie and Applejack glanced at each other. Applejack raised an eyebrow and asked, “Reagents?”

“All these items have magical properties and can be used for special purposes. Pinkie, just think of it this way: The metal, once melted, is like batter. You add ingredients to improve the taste,” said Sunset Shimmer, pointing at the workbench. Her excitement grew as she placed a large number of ingots into a crucible.

Pinkie smiled. “Oh, I get it! But, you don’t want to break your teeth on these bits of rock candy,” she said as she tapped the cup holding the shards of Aria’s Siren pendant submerged in holy water.

“I’ll give you more advice about that ingredient once everything else is ready,” said Discord. His blacksmith outfit morphed into a long, two-shaded brown robe. A wide belt held a cylindrical device on his hip. “So, my young artificer, what are you using to give Chainbreaker its magical force?”

Sunset Shimmer recounted the number of ingots in the crucible, added one more and then thrust it into the fire. Before turning on the noisy fans, she answered Discord. “Alicorn feathers from Twilight Sparkle and Princess Luna. Between the two, they represent Aria’s new loyalty, military skill, mystery, purity and triumph.”

“Excellent, Sunset Shimmer! What else is needed?” quizzed Discord.

She answered, “We need the purified pendant shards, of course, but also diamond dust, carbon and lime. All are components used in spells against the enslaved and undead. After we break the mold and before the star iron is completely cooled, we’ll add Aquastrian coral fragments to Aria’s chain-and-star sigil.”

“I’m so proud! They grow up so fast!” Discord wiped away a false tear and his robes melted away, replaced by heat-resistant clothing. His tone became serious. “Now, get blending, and take a look at your book so you get the mixture right.”

Sunset Shimmer grinned at the Spirit of Chaos and saluted him with a porcelain pestle. “Yes, sir!”

Pinkie silently reached into her pocket, produced two everlasting gobstoppers and gave one to Applejack. The pair sucked on the candy as they knelt on the couch with arms draped over its back and watched the two Equestrians make magic in the Apple Family’s smithy.

Aria Blaze held the makeshift mace in her right hand. The weapon made slow circles as she waited for Rainbow Dash to attack.

“Are you just going to stand there and twirl that thing around, or are you actually going to take a poke at me?” asked Aria.

Rainbow Dash spun her makeshift quarterstaff with blinding speed and said, “You’ll never see it coming.”

Fluttershy had departed some time ago. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom had made themselves a thermos of hot chocolate to share with each other and pilfered a supply of apple fritters. After their impromptu supply run, they had refused to go back inside the farmhouse. They sat on the biggest tractor in the equipment barn and shared cocoa while watching the two older girls spar.

Nimbly advancing, Rainbow Dash jabbed the staff at Aria’s chest, but wasn’t quick enough to strike her. Aria adjusted the mace’s rotation and her parry nearly knocked her opponent down.

“Not awesome,” grumbled Rainbow Dash. Her clothes were stained with dirt from previous blows and falls.

Aria stopped her swings, wiped the sweat off her face and made sure that the metal ball was securely bolted to the steel pipe she held. “You have the speed and coordination to do this. You just need to forget about Neighsian martial arts movies and concentrate on your footwork. Let’s try it again.”

Rainbow Dash gripped the six-foot long piece of wood tightly and flexed her knees. Aria resumed her weapon’s rhythmic rotation. Rainbow Dash made an athletic head fake but didn’t advance.

Aria frowned. “Really? That staff will dry rot before that works. Don’t waste movement!”

Rainbow Dash’s eyes narrowed as she concentrated on Aria’s stance and the mace’s orbit. She shifted her weight onto the balls of her feet and leapt forward, aiming about three feet to Aria’s left. In midair she adjusted her grip and extended the staff to deliver a one-handed blow to Aria’s ribs before the mace could adjust to the reaching attack.

“Good!” said Aria. She coughed and rubbed her side. “You came at me quickly and I couldn’t get the mace over to my left fast enough.”

Rainbow Dash smiled and said, “With a little more practice, I probably could have rolled past you and nailed you in the back for good measure!”

“Don’t get too cocky! Even this shabby thing could split your head like a pumpkin if you were too slow,” said Aria. She smiled back. “But you’re learning very quickly.”

Rainbow Dash walked to the barn’s work sink and splashed some water on her face. “Where did you learn to fight like this?” She filled two paper cups with water and handed one to Aria.

“It’s not so much where, but when. Adagio, Sonata and I relied on our voices and our wits to get us through the first few years of banishment to this world. But, with our powers limited, I took it upon myself to learn more direct methods to defend the three of us.”

Guzzling the water, Rainbow Dash went back for a refill. Scootaloo, talking around a mouthful of apple fritter, playfully yelled at her. “Less talking! More fighting!” Apple Bloom stifled a giggle with her hand.

“Your fan club is making demands again,” said Aria. She raised her eyebrows and threw the paper cup in the trash bin.

Rainbow Dash twisted back and forth, stretching her triceps and back. “I’ve still got some more gas in the tank, but I’m going to be sore tomorrow.” She walked back to the open area that served as their practice yard.

“Oh good, you’re here!” Pinkie Pie burst into the barn and grabbed Aria by the wrist. “Sunset Shimmer needs your help. You wouldn’t believe what they’re all doing down there. It’s like baking a cake, but with magic and coal and really hot metal that would burn your tongue right off!”

Rainbow Dash twirled her quarterstaff impatiently. Her light purple eyes narrowed in annoyance. “Whoa, whoa, whoa! We’re in the middle of something here. Aria’s teaching me how to fight Trottingham-style.”

“I think that the work down at the smithy is a bit more important right now, unless you’d like to meet my old Master closeup,” said Aria, who leaned the makeshift mace on a tractor’s tire.

Pinkie Pie dropped Aria’s arm and closely examined the assortment of farm tools. “Hey, I could fight you! I’m feeling super-energetic right now. Everlasting gobstoppers aren’t everlasting. I had three of them just to make sure!”

“I guess. It’s just not the same,” groaned Rainbow Dash.

One of the corners of Aria’s mouth lifted in a half-smile. She said, “Do you think every opponent will act the same as I do?” Turning to Pinkie, she spread her arms wide and intoned, “Pinkamena Diane Pie, I name you a berserker warrior!” Aria puckered her lips to prevent the others from seeing her smile.

“Yes! It’s about time!” Pinkie selected a handaxe and kept the protective leather cover in place over the blade. She jokingly threatened Rainbow Dash. “I’m going to chop you up!”

Rainbow Dash protested as she jogged out of the barn. “Really, Aria? What am I going to learn from this?” She held on to her staff loosely and turned her back on Pinkie Pie.

“Ambush!” cried Pinkie as she executed a flying tackle. Both weapons tumbled to the ground as the girls wrestled.

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo exploded with laughter. Scootaloo held her sides and nearly fell out of the tractor’s seat. Laughter turned to watchfulness as Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie stood, gripped their weapons and dusted themselves off.

“Do you feel lucky, Dashie? Do you?” said Pinkie Pie. She brought the handaxe into a defensive position.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and began sparring with her sugar-fueled friend.

Aria didn’t need a flashlight to navigate her way to the smithy. Her glowing purple eyes and the half-moon’s light provided more than enough illumination. The scent of apple blossoms filled her nostrils, and the cool spring breeze dried the sweat on her skin. As she crested the path’s small rise, Aria’s eyes were drawn to the smithy next to the babbling brook. Yellow and red lights danced inside the small building, and the delicate aroma of flowers yielded to the acrid smell of the coal smoke that billowed from the chimney.

“She’s here, Sunset,” said Applejack, raising her voice to be heard over the ventilation fans.

The two halves of Chainbreaker’s mold were tightly cinched together on the workbench. A large crucible of molten metal glowed with a golden-white radiance in the forge fire. Sunset Shimmer set a mortar and pestle on the coffee table next to a cup holding the fragments of a Siren’s pendant. A carefully sanded, two-and-a half-foot long piece of hardwood was precisely pinched in the workbench’s vise.

“Are those feathers, Sunset Shimmer?” asked Aria. Her eyes were drawn to the delicate lavender and dark blue down in the mortar.

“Yes! They were plucked from the Princess’ wings yesterday,” she said excitedly. Removing her safety glasses, she nervously glanced at Discord and added, “But, we need to ask you a question before we do anything that can’t be undone.”

Aria crossed her arms and frowned. “What is it?”

Discord mopped his gray-skinned forehead and adjusted his plain leather apron. “I told Sunset Shimmer exactly what your pendant was before your banishment here, Aria. Unlike what she has planned for Sonata’s shards, if she proceeds in making Chainbreaker, there’s no turning back for you.”

“Discord called the shards a ‘shattered heart’ and a ‘Siren’s heart’. What did he mean by that?” asked Sunset. She squeezed Aria’s shoulder with a gloved hand, and then picked up the mortar and added the pieces of crimson crystal to the mixture.

Aria closed her eyes for a moment and compressed her lips. At last, she said, “In Equus, He Who Swims in Darkness created this crystal. There, it was a magical organ embedded in my chest. It absorbed the negative energy we would generate and was also was a lens to project magic. It’s the core of what made me a Siren.” Aria rubbed her upper chest and shuddered. “Beneath the seas, if my heart had been destroyed, I would have starved to death. After being banished, my heart was outside of my body, which made it less vital, but not by much.”

“Sugar cube, that’s awful!” said Applejack. “If I would have known that’s what the magic had done at the Battle…” Her voice trailed off when she saw the resolve etched into Aria’s features.

Aria stood straight and tossed her pigtails proudly. Her purple eyes glowing in the dim smithy, she looked at Applejack, then Discord and finally Sunset Shimmer. She said, “Over the past week, I’ve felt the magic slowly fading from me. Soon, I don’t think I’ll be a Siren anymore.”

A tear ran down Sunset’s cheek and mingled with the soot and grime on her face. She held the mortar and hesitantly fidgeted with the pestle. “Aria, are you sure you want me to destroy your Siren’s heart to make Chainbreaker?”

"Give me that," Aria demanded. She took the mortar and pestle from Sunset Shimmer’s hands. Discord watched expectantly.

Aria began to grind the fragments of her pendant, mixing them with the pieces of Twilight and Luna's feathers along with the other components. As the shards were crushed into a fine powder, Aria cradled the container to her chest. Tears welled in the corners of her purple eyes and then spilled out. In a rich alto that drowned out the ventilation fans, she flawlessly sang a lament in a foreign tongue. The Spirit of Chaos, the former unicorn and the farmgirl simultaneously gasped when they distinctly heard the name "Aria Blaze" woven into the complicated melody.

Spellbound by the song, Discord's outlandish blacksmith outfit transformed into a dark, three-piece suit. Fluttershy's lapel pin took flight from the couch and became the only splash of color visible on his ensemble. As the song reached a melancholy crescendo, Sunset Shimmer's jaw dropped in shock as a crimson mist rose from the mortar, circled Aria Blaze's head once, tickled the bough from the Golden Oak Library and escaped up the forge's chimney into the heavens. The last note lingered for a long moment and then merged itself into soft sobs from Aria, who hugged the mortar with both hands.

Aria Blaze opened her eyes and composed herself. With difficulty, she dried her tears with the back of her hand, looked at Sunset Shimmer and said steadily, "I know this is ready to add to the metal. Let me help Discord and Applejack with the other equipment while you place the mold."

I was a rover, on land and on sea
'til a good woman's love made a new man of me
Life had no meaning, it was so incomplete
'til a good woman's love put me back on my feet

Still a-roamin' I go home in the evening and she's waiting there
and I know that no matter what happens she'll always care
and when night falls and the moon shines above
I'm a man with a dream and a good woman's love

“Big Macintosh, that was so wonderful!” squealed Sonata Dusk, clapping her hands and smiling. “I can’t believe we’ve been trading songs all this time!”

The young farmer set his guitar into the stand next to his chair and returned the smile. “As well as you sing, Sonata, the hours fly by. That’s an old bluegrass song that Granny Smith taught me a long time ago. After you hear it a couple more times, you’ll get the tune. Besides, you sing a whole lot better than even Applejack does.”

Big Macintosh was sitting in a folding chair at the foot of his hastily made bed. The furnished area of the farmhouse’s spacious basement doubled as the young man’s bedroom. The furnace, a utility room and a storage area were hidden behind other thin partition walls. A double bed was pushed against the back wall and the rest of the room held musical instruments, piles of dirty clothes, a couple boxes of old comic books and stacks of sports magazines. All of these items had been quickly hidden beneath the bed or stuffed into the closet to provide a minimum of cleanliness for Sonata’s visit.

A desk, once used for schoolwork, sat in the corner. The items that sat on it showed Big Macintosh’s accelerating growth into responsible adulthood. A farmer’s almanac was perched on top of a stack of books that dealt with marketing, tending apple trees and producing agricultural hybrids. A legal pad was full of neatly organized notes and work lists. Centered behind the desk’s blotter sat a large picture of Cheerilee, flanked by pictures of his sisters.

Sonata stood between Big Mac and the closed door. After her bath, she appeared to have fully recovered from any ill effects from the trip to Scorpan’s church. Her long blue hair, still damp, hung loosely around her shoulders and stretched all the way to her waist. She was wearing a set of thin, clinging pajamas she had grabbed from Applejack’s drawer.

It’s time, Sonata thought. With everyone at school, tomorrow will be the best time to confront Adagio. She took a deep breath and said, “There’s a very special song I’d like to teach to you, Big Mac. It’s a song from a long time ago, but I think it’s perfect for you to learn tonight. It’s from a man’s perspective, but bear with me. My point is that one day soon, I’d like for you to sing it.” She looked down at the floor demurely and brushed the hair out of her face. She looked the young man in the eyes. “Are you ready?”

“Eeyup!” said Big Macintosh enthusiastically. He sat up straight and listened attentively.

Sonata Dusk, recalling a song that was written over seventy years ago, swayed provocatively. Her singing voice was perfectly pitched as she performed:

I'll be with you in apple blossom time
I'll be with you to change your name to mine
One day in May, I'll come and say
Happy the bride that the sun shines on today

Sonata took a seductive step towards her unsuspecting prey after each line. Big Macintosh’s green eyes were wide, taking in every aspect of the performance.

The young man’s frustrations with Cheerilee over the past two weeks were forgotten as he gazed upon the Siren, who performed for him alone. She is so beautiful, he thought. With that voice, and those eyes and those… those curves, I can’t believe she’s here in my room. It’s like a dream!

Sonata, expertly reading the young man’s body language, closed the distance between the two of them one step at a time. She thought, He’s starting to forget Cheerilee. Sonata continued to sing:

What a wonderful wedding there will be
What a wonderful day for you and me
Church bells will chime
You will be mine in apple blossom time

Sonata finished her song and extended her right arm, placing her blue-hued palm flat against Big Mac’s chest. She could feel his heart racing.

Sonata gave him an alluring smile. “Did you like my song?” she asked.

That tune was about getting married! What brought that on? I had always thought Cheerilee would be the one for me. But, Siren and all, there’s just something about her, thought Big Mac.

Aloud, he looked up at her with a smile. Scratching his mop of light orange hair, he said, “I’ve never heard anything quite like it in my entire life.”

Taking the last step to the young man’s seat, Sonata sat atop him and wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders, her legs straddling both Big Mac and the chair. Sonata felt the powerful muscles in his legs tense with unease and heard his sharp intake of breath as she settled onto his lap.

Sonata thought, He’s not quite ready to betray her yet. A weaker male would have already given in to his desires, but that is why he is so perfect. Oh, he is so handsome... She gazed at him, her eyes blazing with desire. “I know this is sudden, but I don’t know when I’ll have a better chance to tell you. Big Macintosh, I’ve been waiting to be alone with you since I first set eyes on you.”

It was difficult to Big Macintosh to focus with the gorgeous girl sitting on him. He thought, Sunset Shimmer’s been trying to teach her to do the right thing since she found her. Maybe she just doesn’t know. He cleared his throat. “Sonata, this is very flattering and you’re incredibly beautiful, but there’s something you need to know…”

“What, that you’re dating Cheerilee? That she’s been your woman for months?” she interrupted, self-satisfied with her slightly crude choice of words. Frowning, Sonata Dusk ran her index finger along Big Mac’s jaw line. She wiggled her hips and pressed against him, further warming his body. “Of course I know that. But, I can give you so much more, if you only let me.”

Sonata felt Big Mac’s tense muscles begin to relax and thought triumphantly, He’s starting to break!

Her conscience sadly whispered, But, he’s not yours and you shouldn’t be breaking anyone anymore, then fell silent.

Big Mac’s eyes took on a curious look, and he shifted beneath Sonata’s pleasant weight. He inhaled deeply, drinking in the scent of her hair and skin. “More?” he asked.

Why are you even asking? You should throw her out! thought Big Macintosh. But, what more could a Siren give me? Much more than a roll in the hay, I reckon.

“You work so hard to care for this land and your family. I want to help you. You are the man of this house, and I’m convinced you are entitled to riches you don’t yet have. I want to make success easier for you. I want your family to be rewarded for the wonderful people that you and they are. Cheerilee, while sweet enough in her way, can’t do that,” Sonata said. Her blue hair tickled Big Macintosh as she grabbed his face in her hands. “Tell me, do you want a family of your own?”

He answered, “Of course! Having a big family is very important to me. I wouldn’t mind having seven or eight kids. Well, I’d have them with the right woman, of course. I would love to raise them here, in this house and teach them how to grow and sell apples, just like my Ma and Pa did for me.”

Sonata dropped her hands to her sides. She pouted and said sympathetically. “Oh, that’s so sad. Do you know why Cheerilee has missed so much work lately?”

With his mind foggy and all of his senses captivated by the woman straddling him, Big Macintosh tried to coherently answer. “She didn’t say much. She said it was, um, female problems.” He blushed deeply.

Sonata began to reel in her catch. “Oh, my poor Mac. I can understand why she wouldn’t tell you, because you want to have children so badly.” She gripped his arm sympathetically.

He raised an eyebrow and his powerful bicep tensed underneath the girl’s blue fingers. “What do you mean, Sonata?”

Sonata Dusk pressed the length of her body against Big Macintosh’s chest. Her hot breath caressed his ear as she whispered, “My darling, Cheerilee’s blossoms may not ever be able to bear your fruit. But I am able, and oh, so willing, to give you the crop that you truly desire, my prince.”

Sonata leaned forward with her eyes closed. Their lips met.

Big Macintosh’s mind swam with anger, confusion and desire as his body tried to process what was happening. She didn’t tell me! But, how could she? If this is true, it changes everything, or does it? Sonata’s soft moan broke through the last of his resistance. Oh, the hell with it!

The young farmer brought his hands up to caress Sonata’s cheek, kissed her back forcefully and passionately, and closed his eyes. His calloused fingers traced her smooth skin. Sonata broke off for a moment and smiled to herself before hungrily resuming the kiss.

After what could have been ten seconds or an hour, Sonata spoke. “There’s no reason to wait, my prince. All the others are outside. Let’s start our future together now.” She reached under his shirt and tangled her fingers in the hair on his chest. Sonata tilted her weight back towards the bed, tipping the chair over and trapping Big Macintosh beneath her on the mattress, her lilac eyes smoldering as she gazed down at the young farmer.

Suddenly, Pinkie Pie’s cheerful voice shouted from the top of the stairs. “It’s waaaaay too quiet down there! Are you playing hide and seek? You have to come see this! Sunset Shimmer did it! She made Chainbreaker and Aria’s in the barn trying it out.”

Big Macintosh scrambled out from underneath Sonata. He hastily tucked in his shirt and checked the rest of his garments.

Sonata sat up and grabbed his wrist. “Please don’t go!” she softly implored.

“We have to, or else there’ll be six girls down here in two minutes. No offense, but your friends can be awfully nosy,” he whispered back. Louder, he added, “We’re on our way up, Pinkie!”

Pinkie Pie replied, “Great! You don’t want to miss a moment of this!"

“I’m sorry, Sonata,” said Big Macintosh.

Sonata stood and kissed him softly. “I want to do this again, soon. All of it.”

“One thing at a time, Sonata. This is all so sudden,” he said, looking down at her with a mix of guilt, affection and confusion. He opened the door and his boots made loud footfalls on the stairs as he ascended.

Sonata Dusk grabbed one of Big Macintosh’s shirts off of the pile of laundry. She said to herself, “Don’t be afraid, my dear. Now we’re both ready for the next step.” Then, she followed the young man up the stairs.

“Finished!” said Rarity happily. She adjusted her red spectacles on the tip of her nose to examine Sunset Shimmer’s black silk gown and its red and gold accents.

Rarity nodded with satisfaction and then stifled a yawn as she carefully placed the dress on a hanger. The sewing room was a creative disaster that was mercifully confined to the surfaces within arm’s reach of the fashion designer’s chair.

She quickly cleaned up the mess, and every swatch of fabric large enough to be used again went into a small container. Rarity proudly surveyed her shop and took a last sip of tea.

“Perhaps it’s time to have my name added to the door,” she mused while jiggling the lock and ensuring that the store was secured for the night. “I now own it, after all!”

Rarity flicked off the lights and stood at the foot of the stairs. A mix of moonlight and streetlights cascaded across the collection of dresses, jewelry, accessories and mannequins. She took a deep breath, smiled and ascended to the second floor.

On the way to her suite, Rarity opened the door to Sweetie Belle’s room. She was fast asleep in her bed, with soft music from one stage show or another playing in the background. Her schoolwork was piled atop a frame backpack which was filled to bursting with the items she planned to bring to tomorrow night’s sleepover in the Crusaders’ clubhouse.

Rarity smiled at her younger sister’s sleeping form. She closed the door quietly, straightened the hand-painted name sign on the door and tiptoed down the hall. In her suite, she picked up a large framed photograph of all seven Rainbooms, taken just after their triumph at the Battle of the Bands.

She tapped the glass with a pale finger, rubbed her blue eyes and said, “Heaven knows what’s happening at the farm, but at least one of us is going to get some beauty rest tonight.”

Midnight approached, and it was Applejack’s turn to doze on her father’s battered couch as Sunset Shimmer and Aria carefully removed the mold from the forge fire. Discord turned the ventilation fans off, since there was no longer an immediate need for a hot fire. Two star iron rivets were still being heated on the edge of the fire, emitting an eerie red glow.

“Watch the color carefully, Sunset Shimmer,” said Discord. “Break the mold and add the coral pieces to the inlay just as red is about to turn to silvery-white.”

Aria had split the supply of Aquastrian coral into two containers and set one next to Sunset Shimmer. “From all you’ve told me, we’ll have to act fast.”

“It’s only fitting that you fill in the star and waves at the top and I’ll get the broken chain links on the bottom,” she said. “Discord, use the tongs to turn Chainbreaker’s head over when we tell you to.”

Discord chuckled and the tongs he held transformed into a frying pan. “My dear Baconhead, I’m here to give you knowledge and inspiration! I’m not here to do every little task for you!”

Aria clenched her teeth angrily as sweat dripped into her eyes. “Are you serious?”

“This time I am. You’ve purified that weapon far too carefully to have me mess around with it at this point. Once it’s completed and cooled, then it’s safe for me to touch it, but not until then,” he said testily. His clothing transformed into the radiation suit he wore briefly while teaching.

On cue, Applejack’s eyes opened. She saw that the mold had been moved and then tossed aside the thin blanket Sunset Shimmer had draped over her. “How can I help?” she asked.

Sunset Shimmer’s chin gestured to the workbench. “Put on some gloves and grab a set of tongs. Take that hammer and chisel and drive it into the crack between the two halves of the mold when I tell you to.”

“We’re going to work quickly with this stuff,” said Aria as she shook the container full of Aquastrian coral, “and then we need you to flip over Chainbreaker’s head so we can fill in the design on the other side.”

Applejack nodded as she pulled on the thick, heat resistant gloves. “I got it.”

Discord backed away towards the smithy’s entrance. Inside the mold, the metal had solidified and changed from golden-white to red. As the night air swirled through the open windows, the red color began to dull. The three girls clustered around the mold on the smithy floor.

Sunset Shimmer took charge. “Ready?”

Applejack and Aria nodded.

“One… two… three! Go!”

With one strike, Applejack struck the seam in the mold and it broke free of Chainbreaker’s head. The clay fragmented and clattered to the floor. Sunset Shimmer caught the metal using protective gloves while Applejack grabbed the tongs and pinched the weapon. The star iron still held a slight pink glow. Aria and Sunset quickly and artfully filled the inlaid designs with pinches and then handfuls of powdered Aquastrian coral. They pressed on each section of the design to make sure the reagent mingled with the metal.

The metal’s pink hue continued to brighten into a silvery white. Sunset Shimmer said, “Okay, AJ, flip it!”

The three young women were a seamless team. Sunset Shimmer and Aria worked the second side much more quickly than the first, and Applejack held the heavy object rigidly in place. Aria finished pressing the last bit of the multicolored powder into the central star-shaped design as the hot metal lost the last bit of its glow. The three girls, breathing heavily from their exertions, looked at Chainbreaker’s head.

Discord set a drink with an umbrella sticking out of it on the nearest windowsill. Wiping his hands on a floral-patterned shirt, he applauded and said, “Great work, ladies! It’s wonderful to see you pull together in the heat of battle. I’ll continue to offer my moral support from this restful vantage point.”

“Now we have a little more time. Let’s cool the head in the slack tub and attach the handle,” said Sunset Shimmer. She undid the bun holding her hair back, removed her insulated gloves and combed her fingers through her red-and-gold locks.

Applejack giggled as she looked at Sunset Shimmer, who was backlit by the forge fire. “You look like a little piece of flame yourself.”

“It certainly feels a lot better than the last time I looked fiery,” she replied with a self-deprecating smile. She turned her green-blue gaze upon Aria and Applejack. “I have something tangible to share with my friends, this time.”

Aria smiled and looked down at Chainbreaker’s head. She pinched it with a heavy set of tongs, gestured to the slack tub with a gloved hand and asked, “May I?”

Sunset grabbed a nearby water bottle and nodded. “Of course, Aria. Once it’s cool, we’ll attach the handle.”

Aria’s muscles strained as she lifted the heavy piece of metal and submerged it in the slack tub’s water for a time. Steam hissed throughout the smithy as the rest of the heat trapped in the star iron was released. Applejack stood and grabbed the water bottle from Sunset Shimmer, who put her gloves and goggles back on.

“No time like the present, right?” asked Applejack. “Let’s finish this and take a break.”

The simple final steps happened quickly. Aria retrieved the mace’s head from the tub and slipped it over the now-beautiful branch from the Golden Oak Library. Sunset Shimmer plucked the rivets from the forge fire and affixed metal to wood. Finally, the wedge was fitted into the very top of the handle and hammered into place to make everything fit snugly from one end to the other. Amazingly, and probably owing to numerous magical properties, very few burrs and molding errors existed, but they were rapidly ground away by tools.

The three young women clustered around Chainbreaker and surveyed their exhausting handiwork. The entire weapon was breathtaking in its beauty. It was about two-and-a-half feet long with a roughly cylindrical head. Star iron had been shaped into crashing ocean waves at the top and bottom of the head, with the silvery-white color and crystalline texture of the cooled metal accentuating the effect. Along the cylinder’s center, the Aquastrian coral prismatically reflected light but clearly showed a five-pointed star shattering the links of a chain.

Aria lifted Chainbreaker with both hands and her mouth opened as she stared at it reverently. She asked, “Do you mind if I take it where there’s a little more room?”

Without a word, Discord, Sunset Shimmer, Applejack and Aria stepped outside into the clearing. They all had goosebumps, but only partially from the cool breeze that tickled their skin. Aria held Chainbreaker high over her head in both hands, just as the half-moon burst from behind a cloud. As the moonlight struck the weapon, it glowed with a pale, white radiance all its own. The coral star-and-chains glimmered with every iridescent color present in the sea.

As they stood amongst the blooming apple trees, the entire group, including Discord, was moved to tears of wonder. Aria’s violet eyes shone with ecstasy even as tears spilled down her cheeks. Benevolent magic surged through Aria’s body. Her purple-and-teal pigtails lengthened, pointed pony ears winked into existence atop her head and delicate, pale green wings resembling fins burst forth from her back. The magical light from the mace streamed down upon Aria Blaze, who roared in triumph.

Chainbreaker was born.

****
Euchre is a fast but entertaining card game that requires two teams of two players. On occasion, secret signals provide an opportunity to cheat for long-time teammates. I played this game often in my youth and during long shipboard deployments before laptop computers were common and inexpensive.

Big Mac’s solo song is entitled “A Good Woman’s Love.” No songwriter is listed. The lyrics were found at http://www.bluegrasslyrics.com/node/388

Sonata’s solo song is “(I’ll Be With You) In Apple Blossom Time.” This song was written by Albert Von Tilzer and Neville Fleeson

Author's Note

One Siren steps forward and another slides back. Even though they weren’t featured in this chapter, does anyone truly believe that Adagio Dazzle and Shrieking Raven have been idle? I hope that you enjoyed this update and I look forward to reading your thoughts in future comments and private messages!

I’ve become accustomed to the excellence and brilliance of my editor and prereaders, but this familiarity will never dim my gratitude. IsabellaAmoreSirenix, in addition to berating me about parallel sentence structures, kept me within the bounds of propriety with the more sensitive topics in this chapter.

I’m celebrating three events with the release of this update. First, the story now exceeds 100,000 words. Second, Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer has enjoyed over 25,000 story views. Finally, I have decided to remove Twilight Sparkle as a tagged character and replace her with Discord.

Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for supporting this story and I hope to see you all again when Chapter Sixteen is written and released!

Chapter Sixteen

Adagio Dazzle nervously circled Shrieking Raven’s living room. She couldn’t believe her good luck when she decided to risk a phone call while the banshee was absent. Adagio struggled to conceal her relief when Aria Blaze had answered and revealed her infiltration of Sunset Shimmer’s group of friends.

She took a deep breath and forced confidence into her voice. “All will be revealed at the proper time, Aria. But, in the end, I will safeguard my subjects, offer my protection against the usurpers and take my rightful place as Queen of the Aquastrian Empire. My first order of business upon our return will be the enslavement of the Equestrian alicorns, starting with the one that rules the night!”

“I need to go, but tell me when it’s time to protect you once again,” she replied obediently, nearly all trace of Aria’s normal disdain gone.

“Your loyalty will be rewarded, Aria Blaze. You have our gratitude,” declared Adagio haughtily.

Adagio ended the call and then let out a long sigh of relief. She sat in Raven’s black leather recliner, closed her eyes and massaged her temples. Adagio thought, Thank the Master! Aria can deepen the division between Sunset Shimmer and Rarity and use the chaos to our advantage. I’ve done much planning today, but reaching Aria is an unexpected achievement.

Even though her movements were restricted to the apartment, Adagio had convinced herself of the importance of being immaculately dressed for Raven’s return. She exuded authority in a single-breasted, royal blue suit jacket and matching slacks along with a cream-colored silk blouse. Adagio, disappointed with the scarcity and staggering cost of black pearls, had ultimately accessorized with a web of brilliant black hematites around her neck and matching hematite earrings. Of course, Sunset Shimmer’s money purchased the expensive ensemble from the Carousel Boutique.

Adagio continued to pace a circuit through the apartment like a caged tigress and addressed her reflection in her large bedroom mirror. “Fake it ‘til you make it,” she said, smiling with self-deprecation.

Sonata always used to say that, she thought. But, if she’s become friends with the Rainbooms, would she stop Aria from dividing them further? No, of course not! She’ll never figure it out in time. Adagio stopped pacing, and ran a hand through her thick orange curls.

She said aloud, “Or could she? Sonata’s annoying idiocy is easily managed, but those times when she’s focused, she’s completely different. She’s not dangerous, but I’ve seen just how capable Sonata can be when she pulls herself together. That must be why the Master wanted her as a Siren so badly.”

Adagio returned to the recliner and excitedly made a few additions to her meticulously coded notes. She then returned to the front page and reviewed her writing line by line. Adagio’s frown grew slowly and by the time she reached the fourth sheet, she was fiercely scowling.

She nearly got up to pace once again, but remained seated. “There are far too many ‘what ifs’ in this plan!” she shouted to the empty room.

As Adagio’s pencil tapped the pad, she thought. This plan is easier to pull off with Aria, Sonata or both, but the whole thing hinges on whether I can fool Raven long enough to restore my connection with the Master. Then, I have to figure out a way to make her lower her guard long enough to strike. For that, I need a better measure of my so-called hostess.

She took her pad and pencil and cautiously entered the hallway that seemingly divided the “public” portion of the apartment from the rooms Shrieking Raven reserved for her own use. Adagio assumed that the door at the end of the hall would lead to the master bedchamber, and as such would be the most securely guarded. So, she examined the first door on the left.

“Aha! A trap!” exclaimed Adagio as she peered at the complicated lock on the door.

To an untrained observer, the lock was simply a five-button cipher lock common to office buildings, police stations and military installations. But, Adagio focused her attention on a dark engraving on the door’s oversized striker plate.

Adagio knelt on the floor and squinted at the engraving. “A burnt skull with one eye missing? That must represent Raven’s overlord.” She leaned closer and then recoiled as she comprehended the meaning of the adjoining symbols. “She is able to imbue a rune of ‘torment’ on an apartment door? That ward is so powerful it was only used on the Imperial Treasury’s vault and the Temple’s inner sanctum. It’s non-lethal, but its effects are possibly worse than death.”

She sank to the floor in the carpeted hallway, cupping her cheeks. Her magenta eyes were unfocused, staring at the floor as she thought, I’ve spent all day working around this terrible fact: There’s no way I can defeat her directly. Shrieking Raven, even weakened, is far too powerful. What have you gotten yourself into, Adagio? What would have happened if I had not come here from the aquarium willingly? She shuddered at that last thought and wrapped her arms around her knees.

After a few minutes of despair, Adagio suddenly snapped her fingers and ceased her moping. She stood and said aloud, “I’ve been looking at this all wrong! Magic is not the answer because it’s only a tool. What are Raven’s weaknesses?” She ticked them off on her fingers. “She’s vain; she’s prideful; and like her chess game, she takes too much pleasure in an attack when a trap would suffice. Now, what can I use to give her a push in the wrong direction?”

With renewed purpose, Adagio returned to the living room and scrutinized the pieces of art. The top shelf of the living room’s display case held pieces that described two individuals in partnership. The shelf included twin miniature thrones of elegantly carved ebony and a two-towered castle worked from an enormous piece of ivory. She strode into the guest room and found that the paintings there had a similar theme.

Adagio checked the other display case pieces, and verified that the paintings leading down the forbidden hallway, those pieces of art closest to Raven, were all solitary and dark. The Siren princess grinned malevolently.

Raven wanted a partner in power once. There’s no love there, or any love that existed was burned away when she became the creature she is now. But, that passion may still be there, waiting for me to use it against her, she thought.

The Siren returned to the comfortable leather recliner and started a new page of notes, her magenta eyes focused intently on the thick legal pad. Her lips curled upward in a self-satisfied smile.

Adagio continued to plot and plan. First thing’s first. Perhaps I can convince Shrieking Raven to permit me an unaccompanied meeting with Aria. I feel like I’ve abandoned my subjects, and that’s a terrible way to start my reign as Queen.

“We’re in the home stretch, Applejack. Can you scoop a little more coal into the fire for me?” asked Sunset Shimmer. She stifled a yawn with the back of her hand.

Applejack nodded and moved towards the forge. “Sure thing, Sunset.” She tucked her long blonde braid into the back of her shirt as she approached the fire.

Sunset shook her head at Discord, who didn’t even give a pretense of helping, since he had completely stretched out on the couch and was sound asleep. As Applejack stoked the forge fire, Sunset recalled the conversation she had with Discord a few minutes after Aria had rushed towards the barn to show the others Chainbreaker:

“Hopefully, her Nocturnal Worshipfulness will give me sterling marks for mentorship tonight, but this next task is all you,” said Discord. He snapped his fingers and his blacksmith garb instantly became a long, striped nightshirt with Fluttershy’s lapel pin perched atop an archaic nightcap.

Sunset’s green-blue eyes grew stormy and she crossed her arms angrily. “You’re supposedly here to help me, Discord. I feel that this necklace is more important than the mace, so it isn’t the time to take a nap!”

“Au contraire, mon capitaine,” said Discord, speaking Prench. “I have a prior obligation scheduled with the inside of my eyelids. Tell me what you’re going to do and I’ll tell you whether you’re on the right track or not.”

Sunset’s growl of frustration startled Applejack. She smoothed her leather apron and calmed herself. Sunset said, matter-of-factly, “Star iron is too difficult to make into jewelry considering my skill level. So, I have to make an alloy with gold that retains magical conductivity, is still durable, yet more workable. But, why can’t you help with that part?”

“Keep going, you’re doing fine. You’ll get to the reason I’m settling in soon enough, Miss Grumpy, and it’s not just because this two-legged form exhausts me. What reagents are you adding to the setting?” asked Discord.

Applejack returned to her seat on the cot as the fire built in strength. Sunset Shimmer ticked off the items on her fingers. “I sort of threw everything but the water trough at it, but it felt right. I put pieces of feathers from all four Equestrian princesses in the mortar, along with the remaining Aquastrian coral and a pretty good amount of diamond dust. I read something about how Celestia’s feathers could overpower the mixture, so I only used about half as much of her down as the other princesses.”

Discord yawned, stretched and nodded. A shrewd look entered his red eyes. “A wise move both thaumaturgically and alchemically. With what you’re making, it’s important to emphasize what’s new and different in Equestria. I see you already have made the chain from gold and the mold is ready for pouring.”

“What I’m concerned about is the gems. I’m putting an awful lot of faith in the leaf from the Tree of Harmony. If the paste doesn’t help me fit the gems into the two semicircles, it will take me forever to make another setting complicated enough to get the shards in place.” Sunset Shimmer stopped and looked at Applejack and then at Discord. “That’s it, isn’t it? The leaf!”

Discord reached underneath the brim of his nightcap and produced a gold, five-pointed star. He peeled off the backing of the sticker, leaned forward and affixed it to Sunset Shimmer’s apron. “We have a winner! For the same reasons I didn’t personally help with the last phases of making the mace, I can’t touch any of the pieces of this necklace. My innate chaos could harm what is likely to be a very harmonious magic item.”

“Sonata’s shards have been steeped in the holy water for several hours. But, shouldn’t we get her down here to help purify them?” asked Sunset Shimmer, who raised an eyebrow.

Discord smirked and shook his head. “Aria’s song was breathtaking, but that’s a performance we’ll only see once. My impeccably tuned senses tell me that the last thing on Sonata’s mind tonight is her pendant. All joking aside, I know she has no desire to be disturbed right now,” he said cryptically.

“I’ll trust you with this one, Discord,” said Sunset, shrugging her shoulders. “So, that’s pretty much it. I’ll heat the metal, make the alloy, grind the reagents and add them to the mix, cast the setting and tweak it while it’s hot, then add the gems.”

Discord laid down on the couch and pulled the thin blanket over himself. He sat up and fixed Sunset Shimmer with a piercing stare. “When you use the leaf from the Tree of Harmony, you will know how far you have come on your circuit from light to darkness and back to light again. Please, wake me if you must, but know that it’s a compliment that I feel safe enough to turn this task over to you.” The Spirit of Chaos closed his eyes and apparently fell right to sleep.

Back in the present, Sunset Shimmer looked into the crucible of molten metal and assessed its color. She turned to Applejack and said, “We’ll heat it up one more time, and then we’ll pour it into the mold. Are you all right?”

“Don’t fret, sugar cube. I’ve gone without a night of sleep for projects a lot less important than this. But, I won’t lie, I wouldn’t mind finishing so we can grab a couple hours of shuteye,” she replied between yawns.

The crucible sitting in the hottest part of the coal-fueled forge fire was less than a quarter the size of what was used to make Chainbreaker. The mold for the necklace was placed in a cleared area of the workbench, with all other reagents and gemstones located a safe distance away.

Sunset smiled wearily at Applejack. “If the metal sets into the mold without any problems, could you shut down the forge while I finish the necklace? If this magic works the way that Twilight’s research says it will, I’m optimistic that it won’t take too long for me to place the gems.”

“I hope that the soldering iron works well enough for you. It hasn’t been used in ten years,” said Applejack apologetically.

Sunset checked the bun holding her hair back and shrugged. “As long as it makes enough heat so I can put the last few touches on the setting, I’m happy. After all, it’s more than a little late to make a run to Barnyard Bargains.” She turned to Applejack. “Are we ready?”

“I think so. We’ve got all the right gear on and you’ve placed all the stuff you need to finish. Let’s make hay while the sun’s shining,” said Applejack, rubbing her gloved hands together.

Sunset Shimmer used a set of tongs to remove the crucible from the forge fire. As she jostled the molten metal, scintillating sparks leapt out of the container. She carefully poured the contents into the mold. Motes of light representing every color in the spectrum drifted through the smithy as the alloy settled into place. A combination of careful engineering and an additional crucible caught the excess metal that overflowed the design. The smell of burning wax mingled with the odor of coal smoke despite the ventilation.

Sunset returned the primary and waste crucible to the forge fire and wiped away perspiration from her forehead with the back of a glove. “I wasn’t expecting all those sparkles.”

“I reckon it’s the magic feathers you put into the mixture,” said Applejack. She plugged in the soldering iron and scooted several containers of gemstones closer to the work area.

Donning a set of spectacles with powerful magnifying lenses attached to the frame, Sunset pointed a finger at Applejack in warning. “Don’t ever tell Rarity about these glasses. They’re called ‘jeweler’s loupes’ and are great for the work I have to do but I know they look ridiculous.”

“Your secret’s safe with me, sugar cube, but you might owe me a favor to keep quiet. I’ll manage this fire while you work,” answered Applejack with a conspiratorial smile.

The alloy shone with a hastily dimming golden light in its mold. As the metal solidified, Sunset Shimmer used fine tools from her kit to make sure the setting was smooth and free of defects. She focused her attention on the points of the four-pointed star, the sturdy ring intended for the gold chain and the sinuous line that would divide the light gemstones from the darker ones. Satisfied with the initial work, she gathered the remaining items while the setting continued its rapid cooling.

She talked to herself as she worked. “Half of the shards will go with the diamonds and the other half will go with the opals. I’ll use the leaf and some of the holy water to make the magic paste that binds everything together.”

Sunset grabbed the envelope containing the leaf from the Tree of Harmony. Applejack, noticing the pause in her friend’s work, patted Sunset’s shoulder and said, “So that’s Twilight’s biggest gift? No more stalling! Let’s have a look.”

She broke the purple wax seals and opened the envelope. Her fingers found a flat, white object that felt more like a crystal than a plant. Removing the silvery-white leaf, Sunset Shimmer raised an eyebrow and examined it carefully. It was circular in shape and roughly six inches in diameter. Eight symmetrical veins spread out from a central hexagon. It appeared to be light and delicate, but the leaf had substantial weight as it sat in the palm of her hand.

Sunset gasped as she felt an odd presence in the smithy and the leaf in her hand grew heavier. The feeling was similar to enduring Princess Celestia’s intense magenta eyes as they sought the presence of a lie or a misdeed, but this was a hundred times more intense than any encounter in the Canterlot throne room. She didn’t hear any questions, but instead felt the inquiry:

Why are you choosing to do this? Sunset heard in her mind.

She focused on the leaf and answered, I need this magic to keep those I care about safe.

What of Harmony? the voice asked.

For an agonizing moment, the leaf’s inner light flared intensely and the central hexagon took on a threatening red glow. It grew painfully hot in the former unicorn’s palm and the leaf’s edges began to smoke.

Sunset concentrated as hard as she could. Twilight Sparkle gave me a path out of the darkness and it’s my responsibility to defend her and my other true friends with my talents.

You will yet learn the depth of your talent and the potential you hold. Add a bit of your own fire to the mixture. Commit to your chosen path, with our permission. The voice fell silent, its judgment made.

The red glow winked out. Prismatic colors danced across the leaf’s surface and the interrogating voice was replaced by a feeling of purposeful tranquility.

From the couch, Discord mumbled in his dreams. “I knew she’d pass, Moonbutt. When are you going to believe me? Next time we’re out, try the tiramisu with the Niagara Peninsula icewine.”

Sunset jumped as Applejack tapped her shoulder. Her deep green eyes portrayed concern as she said, “I thought I lost you for a moment. You started staring at that thing in your hand and didn’t move a muscle for a long minute. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine, Applejack. It’s tough to explain, so we’ll just get to work,” she answered, blinking rapidly and rubbing her eyes underneath the spectacles.

She placed the leaf from the Tree of Harmony into the mortar and added a splash of holy water from Scorpan’s church to ensure the mixture became a paste. Sunset snapped her fingers as she recalled the last instructions from the voice that intruded into her thoughts.

“Applejack, pull out a few of my hairs,” she said. “I need to add them to this magical paste.”

Applejack raised her eyebrow at Sunset Shimmer. “Come again? Did you just tell me to rip out some of your hair?”

“Just a few hairs, and I don’t want to do it myself because it hurts!” she replied. The pair laughed at the absurdity of it all until Applejack surprised her friend by complying with the request. “Ow!” exclaimed Sunset.

Wearing a toothy grin, Applejack laid the hairs across the mortar. “Just like pulling a tooth, sugar cube. Surprise hurts, but works like a charm!”

Seven hairs lay across the opening to the mortar, four of them golden and three of them a deep red. Without a word, Sunset Shimmer took up the pestle and ground the ingredients together. She added more holy water to achieve a proper consistency and to her surprise, after a bit of grinding, all trace of her hair had disappeared. The final product was a viscous, pale blue paste that reflected the dimming forge fire’s light.

“It looks like the necklace’s setting has cooled enough to place the gemstones, Applejack,” said Sunset, excitedly moving the soldering iron and several vials into her work area. The twin jeweler’s loupes comically magnified the excitement in her eyes.

The farmgirl’s mouth fell open with surprise as she peered around Sunset and asked, “It’s amazing how the magic metal from Twilight’s world turned the gold all silver and shimmery! I’d bet even a plain necklace like that would fetch a pretty penny!”

“This one’s not for sale, Applejack,” replied Sunset Shimmer with a bemused grin. “Maybe we can set up a side business another time. Anyway, the gold will give us more forgiveness with the star iron than we had with Chainbreaker.”

Applejack nodded. “I think I understand. When Aria took it up the hill, Chainbreaker looked like it could bash its way into anything. If you have to knock somebody or something over the head with your magic necklace, we’ve all got bigger problems.”

Sunset Shimmer set to work and divided the shards of Sonata’s pendant into equal portions inside each half of the sinuous semicircles. In the top half, she added her entire supply of black opals to the gem fragments. In the bottom half, she mixed the scarlet shards with brilliant white diamonds, liberally supplemented by the gemstones sent from Equestria. She delicately pressed the mixture of gems as flat as possible, but a perfect fit was patently impossible.

“Here goes nothing,” said Sunset. She scooped a portion of the magic paste out of the mortar and dropped a dollop on the “light” half first and then another portion on the “dark” half.

Apparently, nothing happened. Applejack couldn’t contain herself. “Um, Sunset, where’s the glowing lightning and stuff?”

Ignoring Applejack’s comment, Sunset Shimmer tapped on the mixture with a tiny tool in impatience. To her surprise, the gems beneath the steel melted like butter and mixed themselves together. Sunset peered through her magnified lenses and started “spreading” the mixture of gemstones.

“Look at this! It’s working!” Sunset cried. As the red shards melted into the diamonds and opals, she gasped. “But, Sonata’s gem is gone! If this didn’t work, I was going to give it back, especially after everything Aria told us! What have I done?”

Just as guilty tears were about to spill from her eyes, Sunset Shimmer felt the same calmness and tranquility she had earlier. It reminded her of Princess Celestia comforting her when she as a school filly, wrapping a white wing around her and saying, “It’s all for the best, Sunset.” The former unicorn closed her eyes and composed herself.

Applejack’s voice brought her back to the here and now. “What have you done? You’ve made something so beautiful I don’t know what to say!”

Sunset opened her eyes and gazed at her handiwork. The crystalline golden texture of the setting arrayed itself in a four-pointed star centered upon the circular setting. Four inches across, the perfect circle of blazing gemstones was split horizontally by a sinuous line. As in the initial sketch, the upper half was comprised of dark stones. The black opals were far from uniform in color, with streaks of blue and lilac interspersed iridescently throughout. The lower half, comprised mainly of diamonds, brilliantly transformed the smithy’s dim light into miniature rainbows. Each of the two halves had magically fused into a single, teardrop shaped gemstone with unearthly facets trapped beneath a smooth surface. The necklace was a breathtaking contrast between light and dark, artfully united into a whole.

Sunset Shimmer permitted herself a small bit of self-satisfaction. She removed the loupes, smiled at Applejack and said, “Now, don’t let me go all Trixie on you, but can I cook, or can I?”

Wiping away a tear, Applejack replied, “Pa would have made a better assistant than I did, but I’m glad I could help. Speaking of him, he always said that the job’s not done until you clean up, so I’ll get to it.”

“I’ve got to add the prongs that will hold the gems in place and attach the chain. Hopefully, this will go quickly for both of us,” said Sunset.

The soldering iron and prestaged gold wire were quickly used to craft a dozen equally spaced clips that finished the setting. Earlier in the evening, Sunset Shimmer had sized the braided gold chain to fit her own neck. She threaded the chain through the ring cleverly hidden behind the “top” point of the star.

“Here goes,” said Sunset Shimmer, taking a deep breath.

“Hold on there, sugar cube! Why don’t you step outside in case some of that glowing lightning shows up unannounced? I don’t want to trash the smithy at this hour,” cautioned Applejack.

Clutching the necklace in her hand, Sunset wrapped the farmgirl in an embarrassed hug. Sheepishly smiling, she said, “Of course!”

Sunset Shimmer quietly slipped out of the smithy’s door and into the dark clearing. She stood on the bank of the babbling brook and looked into the western sky, where the half-moon still hung well above the horizon. The stars in the now-familiar constellations of this world watched down upon her as she placed the necklace around her neck and fastened the clasp.

“Oh, Celestia!” she cried. A circular wave of aqua-colored luminescence rocketed outward from her as she felt the full might of Equestrian magic surge through her body. Sunset Shimmer’s hair extended in length, nearly reaching her knees, and fuzzy pony ears appeared atop her head. After recovering from the initial shock, she concentrated on the pebbles at the bottom of the brook. As Sunset clenched her right hand into a fist, it was enveloped in an aqua glow which was mirrored in the small ball of stones she lifted and held with telekinetic magic. With a rapturous cry, she tossed her glowing hand into the air and sent the pebbles flying.

Sunset sank to her knees and continued to look skyward. Her gratitude was shouted to the moon, the stars and the apple trees. “Oh, thank you! After these long years here, I never thought I’d live to see the day when I had magic once again!”

The front door to the apartment opened and closed. Shrieking Raven let out a deep sigh as she hung her keychain on the hook next to the door.

Adagio Dazzle, smiling pleasantly, rose from the guest suite’s sitting area and courteously greeted her hostess. “Good evening, Raven. I hope you enjoyed your day out in the world, though I must wonder why you’re returning home so long after school has ended.”

“Adagio, given your unique heritage, I hope that you understand what I mean when I say that today was one of the most trying days I’ve had in centuries. Being undead should exempt me from being confronted with the ghosts of my past,” she said, casually tossing her purse on the kitchen counter.

She gave Raven a sweet smile and said, “I’m so sorry to hear that. Unfortunately, I barely achieved anything productive today. I slept much more soundly than I should have. Perhaps it was something I ate… or drank?”

“I’m proud of you for doing as you were told. I expected to find you writhing in agony with a lockpick in your hand.” Raven frowned, placed her jacket on a hanger and put it in the hall closet. “But, last night, I wasn’t ready to trust that you would follow my directions. I have no regrets about slipping you the sleeping potion, because in the end, my intent was to keep you safe.”

Adagio brushed some lint from the sleeve of her suit jacket. She stole a glance at the carving of the twin thrones in the living room and asked, “Who is this so-called ghost that ruined your day?”

The banshee waved her hand dismissively. She replied, “It’s not important. Would you like to join me in a game of chess?”

“But, this encounter has upset you, Raven,” Adagio took a chance and patted the creature’s shoulder. “Perhaps I might assist you? Venting always seemed to improve Aria’s mood.”

Raven shrugged and then smiled confidently at Adagio. She replied, “I said that the day was trying, but it wasn’t a disaster. On the contrary, after my encounter with Discord…”

“Discord! The Spirit of Chaos that ruled the surface world?” blurted Adagio in surprise as she took a step back.

“One and the same, but don’t interrupt me! I have good news,” said Raven, theatrically spreading her arms wide. “Your fellow Siren, Aria Blaze, has infiltrated that group of annoying girls!”

Feigning surprise, Adagio put a golden-hued hand to her chest. “Aria? How could she have done it?”

Raven explained as she picked up the chess set and moved it to the dining room table. “It seems that those gullible youngsters took her in for one sentimental reason or another. And, how she could have tolerated so many hours in the art room with Pinkie Pie speaks volumes for her mental fortitude.”

Adagio thought, She’s awfully proud of herself. She’s so self-satisfied she forgot to hide how much this Discord being angers her. Aloud, she said, “Aria has always been quite reliable and dependable, Raven.”

“I overheard her report that Rarity and Sunset Shimmer had a fight this morning. Well played, Your Highness. But, who could she have been making that report to? Oh, yes, that could only be you,” said Raven, who dispassionately stared at Adagio while awaiting a response.

Adagio was ready for this accusation. She tossed her hair, crossed her arms and regally responded. “I am responsible for all my subjects, Raven, which is why I insisted upon leaving those cell phones at the aquarium. I’m glad to know for certain that Aria is uninjured and remains loyal to me, which was the purpose of my call. Learning of her achievements was an added bonus.”

Raven sat at the table, her black eyes searching for a lie in Adagio’s response. She looked down at the chessboard and moved a pawn two spaces ahead, opening the game. “Aria would be a welcome addition to our plan. I’ll permit you to bring her into it in a subordinate role.”

“I would like to meet with her, but I’ll require some specifics on what you intend,” said Adagio. She advanced a corresponding pawn two spaces to the center of the board, daring Raven to take it in a classic “Queen’s Gambit” opening.

Raven peered at the board and then looked across the table to assess Adagio. Coming to two sudden decisions, she captured the sacrificial pawn. “Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom will be vulnerable tomorrow night. I overheard them discussing a sleepover in the forest near the apple orchard. I will select an opportune time and lure them away with a simple lie.”

“And they will believe you?” she asked, arching an orange eyebrow.

The banshee gave a raspy laugh. “Of course they will! I’m a respected teacher who has taken interest in their inane attempts to write a play. I’ll mention that the Rainbooms are in danger – which is most certainly true – and they’ll come willingly.”

“Like lambs to the slaughter,” replied Adagio, rolling her eyes at the cliché. She leapt her knight over the line of defending pawns.

Raven slid a bishop diagonally across the board, threatening her opponent’s knight. “And what teenage girl can resist sweets? Or failing that, a sip of warm tea on a chilly night? You’ve experienced my handiwork firsthand, Adagio.”

“So where will you take them for the half-day until they awaken?” she asked, clasping her hands together beneath the table to keep them from shaking.

Raven stood and opened a drawer in the dining room’s buffet. She unfolded a map of a large park on the shore of a lake. “I own a cabin on the shores of Lake Piebald. It’s a bit of a drive, but Canterlot, being landlocked, is not a suitable location for our ritual. There are two caves along the lakeshore that have the mix of water and darkness that we need for a successful offering to Leviathan.”

Finally! Something concrete that I can tell Aria! I’d even tell Sonata if she has recovered her senses, thought Adagio. Aloud, she leaned forward with rapt interest and continued to prompt Raven. “So, you kidnap them tomorrow and we kill them on Saturday night, correct?” She advanced a pawn to cover her threatened knight.

“You have a keen grasp of the obvious, Adagio,” sneered the banshee. “Sadly, we will not be able to reach the lake prior to dawn, and this undertaking requires shadows and gloom.” Her bishop captured the knight.

Adagio slid her pawn diagonally and removed her opponent’s bishop from the board. “You mentioned something about two caves?”

“This one,” she pointed, “is a tourist attraction called the Crystal Caverns. It would serve in a pinch, but it’s just not isolated enough for our bloody business. However, it’s ideal for a trap.” Raven tapped on the nearby icon of a gravestone, returned to the chessboard and made another move.

Adagio leaned over the map and followed the coastline with her finger until she found another cave. “Wedding Cave? Are they serious? The naming conventions of this world never cease to aggravate me.”

“Even without taking into account the ominous regional legends, the cave is isolated, has an underground pond and impressive crystalline growth. And, I built my cabin less than a half-mile away. I could give a skeleton’s knucklebone what the locals call it!” replied Raven, folding her arms across her chest.

Tapping her index finger against her temple, Adagio raised her eyebrows. “Raven, since the Crusaders won’t trust you if I’m nearby, I have a proposal that will increase our efficiency.” After trading several moves, Adagio advanced a pawn to the sixth rank of the board.

“Please proceed,” said Raven, suspiciously eyeing the Siren.

“I could go ahead of you and begin preparing the ritual area for us,” Adagio raised an index finger as the banshee opened her mouth to interrupt. “I could guard it from accidental discovery, and a Friday evening arrival makes more sense to casual observers. I’d be just another weekend tourist.”

She nodded. “Your plan has merit, Adagio.”

Here goes nothing, thought the Siren. “I’ll need freedom of movement tomorrow so I can meet with Aria and set our trap.”

Raven narrowed her eyes, clasped her hands and leaned forward over the chessboard. After an uncomfortable pause, she stroked her chin and asked, “What assurance do I have that you won’t just flee, or worse, leave me to the tender mercies of the authorities for a triple kidnapping?”

“Since you’ve become aware of me, what has been my goal?” asked Adagio, returning the banshee’s intimidating stare with one of her own.

The creature drummed the table with her fingers and moved another chess piece. “You desire to return to Aquastria with your two compatriots. Most recently, you wish to assume your mother’s throne.”

“After my defeat at the hands of the Rainbooms, is there any possible way for me to accomplish that without you as a partner?” She spoke earnestly, carefully choosing her words.

Raven made one more appraisal and then nodded. “Very well, Adagio. Please proceed. Do you know how to drive an automobile?”

“I have the false license to prove it,” she replied, flashing the banshee a sarcastic grin.

Raven strode into the kitchen and removed a set of car keys from a hook. She tossed them to Adagio and said, “Take the Palomino to the lake. A beautiful, apparently young woman will look right at home behind the wheel of a sports car. Be careful, as I may take any damages, quite literally, out of your hide. I’ll give you a list of supplies we need and provide you a more arcane package in the morning.”

“Excellent. Thank you, Raven. Now, I believe it’s your move,” said Adagio. She grinned crookedly and gestured to the chessboard.

Two hours later, the chess game concluded and Adagio Dazzle retired to the guest suite after enjoying a midnight snack. Shrieking Raven, admittedly, had been distracted by the day’s events but was still shocked when Adagio had moved a pawn to the eighth rank and transformed it into a queen. She countered valiantly, but after forty-nine moves, her king was trapped and she tipped over the piece, conceding defeat.

Raven opened the warded door to her bedroom and slipped inside. She chuckled and said to herself, “It’s been a long time since anyone could best me in a game of strategy. Princess Adagio Dazzle, I almost regret what I’m going to do to you.”

Her human disguise melted away, and the banshee walked around the sumptuous, rarely-used bed to a black curtain hung along the room’s back wall. Raven pulled a tasseled golden rope and the barrier parted. A huge, gilt-framed mirror was hung against the wall. The banshee started to move to stand before the reflective surface but stopped herself. She crouched down to look into a locked glass case holding myriad carved figurines.

She tapped the topmost shelf, where a beautiful woman carved from an enormous piece of jade stood next to a lapis lazuli figurine of a man sitting in a throne adorned with antlers. “But, I have no regrets for you, Discord. This time, I hold the upper hand! You’ll regret dismissing my offer for all eternity.”

Discord banged his paw on the arm of the throne. "You don't understand what you did to yourself and I don’t think you ever will, Cassiopeia!”

“It’s now ‘Shrieking Raven’, Discord! In my new form, there’s nothing stopping us from ruling Equestria forever! Where else can you find an Empress that complements your impulses with strategic brilliance to dominate the ponies, zebras and griffons?” She made a self-aggrandizing gesture with a skeletal hoof.

A school of fish swam through the checkerboard sky between the two. The Spirit of Chaos continued angrily. “In your greedy pursuit of immortality, you forgot one critical element about me. Life creates chaos where you desire certainty in undeath. I see endless possibilities and a multitude of worlds to enjoy. Cassiopea, you may have cheated death but you courted far worse.”

“But those worlds can be ours!” pleaded Raven.

"Not ours. Vecna’s. You cast your lot. Don’t you feel your own hunger? All you want is to consume souls and leave ashes in your wake."

Raven’s black eyes glittered dangerously. “If those troublesome sisters find what they seek, my new Master is the only one that can protect you, Discord. Undeath is infinitely preferable to oblivion.”

“I have no desire to rule over a world of darkness and soot. This is more my speed.” The Emperor of Equestria snapped the talons of his eagle talon and a pink cotton-candy cloud rained chocolate milk all over Raven’s perfectly coiffed mane. “Tell your master that he shouldn't tempt me with the light and heat of celestial fire if all he desires is to pick through the ashes after it’s extinguished."

Raven took a threatening step towards Discord. “You’ll suffer eons for this insult!”

“No, Cassiopeia, when you understand what you’ve done, you’ll be the one to suffer. Now begone!” he commanded.

Discord’s paw and talon glowed with a golden aura, and he pantomimed shoving Raven away. The banshee pony flew through the checkerboard sky for several miles before landing softly in a field of wildflowers.

“I’ll take my chances with these new alicorns. During your long walk back to your new Master, ponder the simple, chaotic beauty of mortality that you sacrificed,” taunted Discord’s disembodied voice.

The tingle of powerful magic jolted Shrieking Raven back to the present. At first she thought that her Master had illuminated the mirror before her, but she saw her own eyes widen in shock as she realized that the resonance was from another source – an unfamiliar, scintillating font of positive energy.

Raven swallowed her surprise and fear. She stepped in front of the mirror and concentrated on its depths. As she focused her will, dim green light flickered along the edges of the glass and gradually brightened. Slowly and deliberately, a black silhouette separated itself from the darker shadows and dominated the center of the frame. The figure removed a cowl from its head, dimly revealing a skull. A single pale blue eye glowed with unholy radiance opposite an empty socket. Raven squinted, and the green flickers permitted her to behold the black scorch marks staining her Master’s terrifying visage. The image of Vecna gestured with a skeletal, decaying limb, which was missing its hand.

“Begin, my loyal servant,” whispered Vecna.

Raven struggled to hold the gaze of the glowing eye. She straightened herself and said, “A new light further threatens your glorious and unending darkness, my Lord.”

“Yes. Celestia’s children have found a way to increase the Power of Harmony. I find it ironic that this development has occurred right in front of you.” Annoyance and disappointment crept into the creature’s soft rasp.

The banshee spread her arms wide. “Master, with your help, I will end this threat and seize an additional portion of divinity for you at the cost of expending a few of the magic items I have hoarded during my banishment from Equestria.”

The figure in the mirror snorted with derision. “Starswirl the Bearded’s spell of exile angers me each time I think of it. Of course, you wish something in return. Continue, Shrieking Raven. This offer interests me.”

“Leviathan’s Sirens still live. The recent influx of Equestrian magic into this world caused them to attempt a takeover, but their ham-fisted attempt was defeated by a newly-ascended alicorn princess and an exiled unicorn with remarkable magical skill. The Sirens’ leader is the last of the Imperial line,” said Raven.

The light from the pale blue eye changed almost imperceptibly. Vecna, his interest piqued, said, “You mean to use the Sirens to drain Leviathan of his immortality and divine essence. Interesting. But, why do I sense such great impatience?”

Raven’s confidence grew with her Master’s curiosity. “The Sirens’ hearts were shattered and their magic, and thus their capacity to directly link with Leviathan, is slowly leaking away. I will trick the leader into re-establishing herself as an Aquastrian Queen, and then kill her shortly thereafter, using her death to funnel Leviathan’s power directly to you. I humbly request you lure He Who Swims in Darkness toward a sacrifice in his name at the proper time.”

“And, of course, all of this divine death will increase your power exponentially as a result. Leviathan is dormant and weak, so he will be sorely tempted by any prospect of a meal. How do you intend to slay the Siren Princess? These things must be done properly, as you know,” Vecna chuckled.

The banshee unlocked a drawer and produced a small, bronze dagger. The hilt was etched with the same one-eyed skull rune that gave life to the apartment’s traps. A crude setting in the pommel held a fragmented red gemstone. “With this, my Lord. One of the Sirens, perhaps the Princess herself, cast away the fragments of her heart-pendant during the confusion following their defeat. Your dagger combined with this gem will transfer Leviathan’s power to us.”

The pale blue eye glimmered with pleasure. “If you succeed, I will reward you handsomely. Let us talk tactics, Shrieking Raven.”

As dawn broke on Friday morning, Applejack led Sunset Shimmer and Discord through the front door of the Apple Family farmhouse. The blonde farmgirl was already dressed and mostly ready for school, but her green eyes were dull with fatigue. She carried the wrought iron triangle used to call the family back to the house for meals.

Discord sniggered and covered his mouth with a gray-skinned hand. “I didn’t know you had it in you, Applejack!”

“This place was like a flophouse last night. Between Rainbow Dash’s snoring and Pinkie Pie’s tossing and turning, I couldn’t get a lick of sleep. How can they be so loud sleeping on the floor? It’s time for a little payback,” said Applejack.

Sunset Shimmer shook her head. Her hair was in a state of sleepy disarray. “I’m glad I slept on the cot in the smithy. At least I got a couple of hours of rest. I know this sounds terrible, but after last night, I would have lost my mind listening to Sonata play and sing with Scootaloo and Apple Bloom through the wall.”

“She’s the smartest one of all,” said Discord, pointing to Aria who was sound asleep on the living room couch. Her arms were curled around Chainbreaker. “Aria seized the warmest spot in the house and has the means to defend it!”

Applejack knocked on the basement door. “My brother got a nice break from the insanity, too. He’s usually up by now, though.” She called downstairs. “Big Macintosh, cover your ears. I’m going to do the thing with Granny’s triangle!”

“Eeyup!” His muffled reply drifted up the stairs and was followed by an enormous yawn.

“Y’all better do the same. This thing’s mighty loud at close range,” warned Applejack.

With a mean-spirited grin on her face, she sounded the iron triangle with its matching ringer. Discord and Sunset Shimmer giggled along as the shouted complaints issued forth from upstairs. Suddenly there was a flash of silvery-white and the triangle clattered to the entryway floor.

“That’s enough,” said Aria Blaze. Her purple-and-teal pigtails were snarled and she held Chainbreaker menacingly in both hands. She gestured to Discord with the weapon. “You. Coffee. Now.”

Discord snapped his fingers and transformed his clothes into a black shirt and black trousers covered with a green apron. A circle on the front of the apron contained a cartoonish picture of a happy Aria Blaze, with a pale green mermaid’s tail spread out behind her. With a sarcastic grin on his face, he silently walked to the kitchen and wrote a series of symbols on the side of a mug with a black marker.

The Spirit of Chaos-turned-barista grabbed the Apples’ coffee maker in both hands and it transformed into a state-of-the-art espresso machine. He pointed at Aria and said, “After your performance last night, you’re entitled to a cup or three of the good stuff.”

Applejack’s noisy wake-up call triggered bedlam throughout the farmhouse. Big Macintosh fiercely defended his basement domain, allowing only Discord and his sisters into his passably clean bathroom. Sonata in particular stomped back upstairs in a huff. Aria and Rainbow Dash elected the minimalist approach. They utilized the ground floor’s half-bath and guzzled coffee amid the Friday morning insanity.

Pinkie’s Coltswagen Beetle and the farm’s pickup truck were packed solid. A frustrated Sunset Shimmer dictated a practical loading arrangement over numerous objections. The truck’s single bench seat was uncomfortably full, with Big Macintosh driving, the two smaller freshman girls pinched in the center and Applejack pressed against the passenger door. Rainbow Dash lounged out of sight in the truck’s bed, concealed by a blanket. The Coltswagen fared little better, with Pinkie behind the wheel and Discord in the front seat. Sunset was sandwiched between the two Sirens. A point of her newly-forged magical necklace dug painfully into her armpit from the leather jacket’s inside pocket.

During the drive to Canterlot High School, loud music and close quarters made it difficult for Sunset to hear Discord. She reached forward, turned down the radio and asked, “Could you say that again, Discord?”

Attired in his mismatched suit once more, he turned in his seat to speak with Sunset. “I said that I’ll keep up this subterfuge for a bit longer yet, but I think my high school teaching career is going to be very short.” His eyes grew wistful and watery. “What a pity that I won’t be able to attend staff meetings and split a donut with Luna and Celestia.”

“You get donuts?!” cried Pinkie Pie. “How do I become a teacher?”

Sunset rolled her eyes and leaned over the center console. “You have to go to college, first, Pinkie,” she turned to the right and added, “Focus, Discord. What do you mean?”

“Isn’t it obvious? It’s dangerous for all of us to be here in the same building as my former acquaintance. The only reasons I’m braving the school today are that I gave my word to you, and if there were a problem, the crowd could overwhelm this individual. We need to find Adagio and confine her in some way to keep the two of them separated,” he said, a grave look entering the crimson eyes.

Sonata puckered her lips and raised an eyebrow. “I don’t understand what you’re saying, Discord.”

Aria reached across Sunset and gave Sonata’s knee a sisterly pat. “Sunset Shimmer is keeping a secret from us, Sonata. I have to assume it’s for a good reason. Right?” she added sharply.

“I don’t want to scare the others with specifics, but Adagio is allied with another exiled Equestrian and this one is evil to the core. Is that good enough?” said Sunset. She gave Sonata a reassuring smile.

Sonata crossed her arms over her gray hooded sweatshirt and nodded. “I suppose that’ll have to work for now. But, why can’t we just take out Adagio now?”

“Sunset is leading you in the correct direction, Sonata. Unless we’re absolutely forced to do, I don’t want to take the chance of encountering both Adagio and…” Discord’s forehead creased in thought, “…Cassie at once.”

Pinkie Pie bounced in the driver’s seat as they pulled into the student parking lot. “Okie dokie lokie! That works for me, even though Aria taught me how to be a mean hatchet girl last night.”

“Don’t make me regret teaching you how to throw that thing, Pinkie,” groaned Aria.

As they unloaded from the Coltswagen Beetle, the pickup truck parked nearby and the entire group assembled. They walked around the school’s statue that contained the dormant portal to Equestria. Suddenly, Sweetie Belle, burdened by an elaborately embroidered frame backpack, grabbed Apple Bloom and Scootaloo as she passed.

“Come on! I need to toss this in the bed of the truck before Big Mac leaves,” said Sweetie Belle, dragging her two closest friends back towards the parking lot.

The entire group came to a stop when they saw two figures seated on the steps leading up to the school’s main entrance. Fluttershy stood and waved timidly. Discord nervously adjusted the collar of his paisley shirt.

The other figure stood, flipped her meticulously curled violet hair and pointed a perfectly-manicured white finger at Discord. Her blue eyes wide with horror, she shouted, “By the glorious names of Prim Hemline and Hoity Toity, what in the world is that man wearing?”

Rarity took the blueberry muffin in her hands and gave half to Sunset Shimmer. “Do be careful with the crumbs, darling.”

“Thanks, Rarity. It’s great to talk to you, though I have to wonder what caused such a sudden change of heart,” said Sunset. She took an enormous bite and wiped away a blueberry fragment with the back of her hand.

Despite the sudden wake-up, they had a few minutes to spare. Rarity and Sunset Shimmer sat in the music room in a secluded corner near the drum set. Aria Blaze, Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie fooled with the instruments in the center of the room and Fluttershy quietly finished her homework on the large table, with Discord seated next to her. Chainbreaker was concealed in an oversized gym bag underneath Fluttershy’s stool. Sonata had hastily departed, mentioning something about returning a library book, and the Crusaders were elsewhere planning this evening’s sleepover.

The fashion designer’s blue eyes stole a glance at Applejack. “Pizza, down-on-the-farm directness, and some time to myself calmed me down,” Rarity nervously bit her lip. “Well, and Applejack said she’d model for me.”

“What?” cried Sunset incredulously, capturing the attention of the other girls in the music room.

Rarity waved the rapidly disappearing muffin dismissively. “There’s plenty of time to discuss the particulars later, my dear. I’m still quite upset with you, but the events of the last few days have driven home the point that we must stand together during a time of crisis. My… emotional reaction caused me to forget that for a time.”

Rainbow Dash and Applejack missed a few notes and rolled their eyes upon hearing Rarity’s choice of words, but they didn’t dare interrupt.

“Thank you for understanding and I know we’ll work through the events of the past once we’ve neutralized Adagio and her ally,” said Sunset. She reached into her jacket. “Rarity, I have something to show you.” She produced the magic-focusing necklace and presented it in the palm of her hand.

Rarity’s mouth fell open in awe. She tapped the surface of the fused gems with her fingernail. “This is simply divine workmanship! How did you get the facets trapped like that? The light is dazzling!”

“Magic!” Sunset winked at Rarity. “But that’s not all. I can cast spells while I’m wearing it. I spent most of last night remembering what I learned before coming to this world and it was exhilarating,” she leaned forward with barely contained excitement.

Rarity smiled back and pushed the necklace back towards Sunset. “I’m truly overjoyed for you, because I know how much you miss your magic, but now is not the time for a demonstration.”

“Exactly, which is why it’s now my turn to ask a favor,” Sunset pocketed the necklace and folded her hands in her lap. “I promised Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna I’d look after Discord while he was teaching. Here’s the deal: First, I owe Twilight a note. Second, I’m exhausted and I need to take a nap. I can take care of both things in Fluttershy’s van.” She shivered despite the room’s warmth. “For reasons I won’t discuss now, there’s no way I’m going to sit in Ms. Raven’s class today. Could you and Fluttershy keep an eye on Discord while he teaches this morning? I know he’ll cover for me with Luna for attendance purposes.”

Rarity patted Sunset’s folded hands. “Of course we will watch him so you can rest, darling. I remember reading something about the most gratifying thing that a leader can say is that she trusts you enough to sleep while you’re on watch. We’ll ensure our guest is well cared for, despite his atrocious attire.”

“Thanks, Rarity. I’ll see you at lunch.”

They stood and Sunset Shimmer quickly embraced Rarity, shouldered her backpack and collected the van keys from Fluttershy. Before the morning bell sounded inside the school, she was sitting cross-legged on the van’s stained beige carpet, writing a note in the thick Equestrian tome:

Dear Twilight,

We did it! Discord, Applejack, Aria and I worked nearly all night in the smithy and created two magical items from the gifts that you sent to me. Here’s a picture of the first:

Sunset placed a small photograph of Chainbreaker on the page, the star iron and Aquastrian coral shimmering from the camera’s flash. Applejack had printed the image from her phone while everyone dressed for school.

Aria ground her pendant and added it to the reagents. When she took Chainbreaker outside, it began to glow and she grew pony ears and fins, just like during the Battle of the Bands! She immediately took the mace to the barn and taught Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie some fighting moves.

Later, I used the leaf from the Tree of Harmony, Sonata’s pendant and many other items to create this magic-focusing necklace:

She placed a second picture towards the bottom of the page. The amulet was laid flat on the smithy’s workbench. The top gem glittered darkly while the bottom gem brilliantly amplified the camera’s flash.

Twilight, when I put the necklace on, I could cast unicorn spells again! I levitated objects, teleported small distances and I even experimented with basic alteration and enchantment spells! It was glorious, and it’s all coming back to me so quickly.

Most important is that we’re all together again. Rarity has forgiven me, though we still have much to work through. Discord has identified Adagio’s ally as Shrieking Raven, who is a banshee exiled to this world long ago. I’m going to guess that only Starswirl the Bearded could have cast that spell! With these magic items, I think we’re ready for just about anything. We just need to find Adagio while avoiding a confrontation with Raven.

Thank you for everything. After so many years, I feel like me again.

Yours in friendship,
Sunset Shimmer

She closed the book, expecting the sunburst on the cover to flash briefly. Instead, the book vibrated violently in her hands and brilliant white light burst from the replica of her cutie mark as the message and pictures were magically sent to Twilight Sparkle.

“Wow, I didn’t know my message was that important,” Sunset said, tracing the curved line dividing the red half of her symbol from the gold half as the incandescence faded.

Dazzled, but pleased by the unexpected light show, Sunset smiled wearily. She laid down between the van’s benches, pillowed her head on her leather jacket and closed her eyes.

Sonata stepped into the empty library, carrying the second of the three books she had borrowed under her arm. She unzipped the unflattering, oversized gray hoodie, exposing that she wore the flannel work shirt that she had stolen from Big Macintosh’s laundry pile. A large green apple was embroidered on the breast pocket of the brown and red garment.

She set the book on Cheerilee’s desk. Sonata spun the chair in slow circles and admired the photographs. Sonata was particularly fixated on the picture where Big Mac was clad in a tuxedo.

Sonata narrowed her eyes in concentration, a dreamy smile curling across her lips. He’ll need a haircut before I size him for a coronet.

She took Raven’s card from the pocket of her borrowed jeans and used Cheerilee’s desk phone to dial the number. Fortunately, the call went to voicemail and Sonata heard Adagio’s commanding voice. “If you’re calling this number, you know who this is. Leave a message.”

After the tone, Sonata launched an avalanche of words while faking a tearful tone. “Adagio, it’s so good to hear your voice! I’m so sorry I upset you. I miss you and need to see you. I’ll meet you at our hideout about hour before noon. Oh, I’ve made such terrible mistakes! I’m calling from the high school, so there’s no return number. Good-bye.” She dropped the receiver back in place.

She smiled maliciously as she stuffed the card back into her hip pocket. The library door opened and the Siren heard the creak of a book cart’s wheels. Seeing a glimpse of purple hair, Sonata flipped her blue-streaked ponytail and strode for the door. Cheerilee was struggling to get the cart over the lip of the doorframe. Sonata lightly bumped the librarian with her hip, and easily maneuvered the cart through the doorway.

“Have a good day, Miss Cheerilee!” called Sonata. She expertly turned and made sure that the teacher saw the shirt that she was wearing.

Cheerilee replied, “Thank you for the help, Sonata.” As the door closed, her brain registered that the girl was wearing her boyfriend’s shirt. She rushed to the door and opened it. “Sonata? Where are you?”

The librarian scanned the empty hallways with her green eyes and could find no trace of the blue-skinned girl. Cheerilee put a hand on her stomach and steadied herself against the doorframe. She thought, There has to be a reasonable explanation for this.

Sonata Dusk quietly maneuvered her way to the dim janitor’s closet where Sunset Shimmer had taken her to talk on Monday morning. Curling her nose at the strong smell of bleach, she looked at her reflection in the dingy mirror and gripped her chin between a thumb and forefinger.

She addressed her blurred reflection. “Victory and revenge are so close. When Mac sees what ‘Adagio’ has done to me, he’ll go crazy!”

She opened the maintenance staff’s toolbox and took out a rubber hammer, a screwdriver and a pair of shears. Finally, Sonata tested the weight of a small, steel pipe wrench in her hand.

“An aspiring prince, and most noble men, simply can’t resist a damsel in distress. It’s time to make this look convincing,” said the Siren.

Sonata Dusk drew her arm back and struck herself with the wrench.

*****

Author's Note

I’ll keep my author comments brief following this lengthy chapter.

Hopefully, you enjoyed this update and its plot developments, and I can’t wait to receive your comments and messages. You have all been so kind in the wake of previous chapter releases, and I just wanted to rearticulate my gratitude for faithfully reading this long, involved story.

Your encouragement and graciousness have combined to keep me on a predictable update schedule and I’ll continue to do my best to stay on track as the story takes another step towards its conclusion. Thank you!

Chapter Eighteen

Adagio Dazzle shifted gears, and the red sportscar accelerated along the long, lonely, two-lane road to Lake Piebald. The Palomino’s engine purred loudly as she sped towards her destination. Adagio reached over and tuned the satellite radio to a station that featured music from about seventy years ago. She recognized the song and loudly sang the mezzo-soprano part of a three-woman harmony, just as the song reached its climax:

Go forth into battle, though you may fall
Punish the enemy and heed the Sirens’ call
So, come back to me with a medal
Or don’t come back at all

Adagio was pleased that her performance was only a little off-key. “I’m glad my voice is healing after a week, but why now?” she asked the windshield.

Her thoughts wandered back to the confrontation in the aquarium a few hours ago. Sonata threw an axe at me! Sonata Dusk, who has only three modes – scared, seductive and spacy – attacked me. Why? Was this really about her father?

Adagio came to a realization and banged a hand on the steering wheel. “Oh, by the Master’s dark tentacles, she truly loved both her father and that farmer! Sonata, how could you?” She shook her head as she drove. “Nothing good ever comes from falling in love with any male, and this entire situation proves why my mother, my grandmother and every Aquastrian Queen enforced He Who Swims in Darkness’ laws.”

She pursed her lips with worry and let brooding thoughts cross her mind. But what if Sonata was right? What if I fail? Is a slow death to old age preferable over a quick death? Even in my banishment, I have known adventures and seen places that these humans – and most Equestrians – will never experience. All of those memories will be lost to the void if I fail.

The sun, low in the sky, dazzled Adagio’s eyes as she came around a curve. “Or will they?” She took a hand away from the steering wheel and ran her fingers through her thick orange curls. She sighed, and then asked herself, “What has happened to me during the past few days?”

You’ve had your foundation rocked by the Power of Harmony, that’s what’s happened. The first time you truly stood and fought after the Battle of the Crystal Glacier, you were soundly defeated by five girls, an exiled unicorn and a fledgling alicorn princess. Any other mermare would be permitted to curl up into a ball in despair, but I can’t neglect my duty to Aquastria, thought Adagio. She determinedly clenched her jaw and tightened her grip on the steering wheel.

The Palomino’s instrument panel beeped at Adagio. A yellow light activated, indicating that the car was running low on fuel. The navigation system indicated that a small town was only a couple miles away.

Adagio drove the sportscar over a bridge spanning a small river. She glanced out at the sun sinking below the horizon. The sparkling motes of light dancing on the water spurred her to thought again. I just want to go home. I want to feel water all around me again, and the coolness playing on my scales. My people are lost without me, and though I’d never say it to Aria or Sonata, I’m lost without them. I’m so tired of scurrying from one hiding spot to another.

After crossing the river, the two-lane road intersected with a major highway. A truck stop sat alongside the road, and the parking lot was crowded with tractor-trailers. Adagio pulled up to the gasoline pumps, got out of the car and began filling the Palomino’s gas tank. She was dressed simply, wearing a bright purple polo shirt, jeans and comfortable boots, but attracted an incredible amount of attention from the gawking truck drivers.

Adagio smirked and shook her head. She sarcastically said to herself, “If it wouldn’t result in a police chase, I’d just drive off. But, I suppose I should pay, visit the restroom, grab a snack and deal with those insufferable men inside.” She locked the sports car with the key ring, causing the horn to honk and the lights to flash once, and walked across the parking lot to the truck stop.

The ring of a cheap aluminum bell signaled Adagio Dazzle’s entrance. About a dozen men were seated around a diner counter and at a pair of tables in a small restaurant adjoining a convenience store. One trucker gave an admiring whistle as she strode back towards the restroom, earning disapproval from his peers.

“She’s just trying to get some gas, man! Leave her alone,” said a second trucker.

The first trucker, who was a large man in his mid-thirties wearing a green mesh ballcap, shook his head in amazement and said, “I’ve seen many things on the road between Fillydelphia and Vanhoover, but haven’t ever seen anything like that!”

Adagio finished washing her hands in the restroom and returned to the convenience store. The green-hatted trucker stood up from his spot at the counter and approached her.

The waitress rolled her eyes in exasperation. “Have a seat, Casanova. Your dinner’s just about ready!”

“Hey there, darling. How far down the road are you going tonight?” asked Green Hat, feebly attempting to start a conversation with Adagio.

She curtly responded, “Sadly, I’m not going far enough to escape your particular aroma. When’s the last time you took a bath or brushed your teeth, anyway?” She grabbed two bottles of soda and an energy bar.

The cashier, a bespectacled young woman in her twenties, covered her face in amusement and called out to Adagio, “Over here, sugar. I can help you.”

“Don’t you want to see my equipment?” asked Green Hat in a final attempt to engage the beautiful Siren in conversation.

Adagio rolled her eyes. A subtly menacing tone crept into her voice as she replied, “Based on what I see, there’s no way you have a big rig. If you’d like to keep your equipment working properly, I suggest you go eat your dinner and don’t bother me anymore.”

The sarcasm was too much for both the waitress and the cashier, who exploded in laughter, along with half of the restaurant’s patrons. Green Hat silently slunk back to his stool in humiliation, and absently stuffed a Prench-fried potato into his mouth.

“How much do I owe you?” Adagio asked the cashier.

The young woman smiled and flipped her green hair back over her shoulder. Her hazel eyes glittered with amusement. “The gas will be sixty dollars, but the snacks are on the house, sugar.”

“I haven’t seen a young lady put a man in his place like that in years,” said the waitress, who left the restaurant area and approached Adagio. “Thanks for making me smile!”

Adagio’s eyes darted nervously between the two smiling women. “I just wanted to be about my business and get back on the road.”

The cashier gave Adagio her receipt and said, “But the way you did it, well, I don’t think he’ll be bothering any women for a long time. Thanks for that, kid.”

“Oh, don’t go calling this young lady a kid!” said the waitress, playfully elbowing the other woman. “I’ll certainly give that guy in the green hat one thing; you certainly are a sight, if you don’t mind me saying. Like a princess out of a storybook or something!”

The cashier threw her head back and laughed. “Ha! This lassie’s definitely no damsel in distress locked up in a tower.”

“Maybe, but who says a princess can’t stand up for what’s right?” asked the waitress, adjusting her apron. “Oh well, maybe I’ve been watching too many of my daughter’s movies!”

Adagio shifted her weight uncomfortably from one foot to the other, loosely holding the bag containing her snacks. She hesitantly said, “Um, thank you both for the compliment.”

“We’ll stop bugging you, ma’am. Have a safe trip and please swing through the next time you come this way,” said the cashier with a warm smile.

The cheap aluminum bell rang again, signaling Adagio’s departure. She unlocked the car, set a soda in the cup holder and put the bag on the passenger seat. She opened the trunk to ensure that the items hadn’t been disturbed.

The Palomino’s trunk was filled with Adagio’s possessions. She thought, I brought it all, because no matter what happens tomorrow night, this is a one way trip. As this continent’s settlers would have said, Aquastria or bust.

A small chest hidden in the spare tire compartment held Raven’s mundane and magical supplies, including zip-ties, ropes, candles, enchanted items and Adagio’s instructions. She lifted a blanket and revealed Sonata’s full seabag.

Adagio closed the trunk and wistfully thought, In the end, she’s my subject. My responsibility. I can’t let her go.

She started the Palomino and returned to the road. As she neared Lake Piebald, Adagio’s thoughts returned to Sonata and the grim task ahead of her. Aria’s mother and I should have done something to save Sonata’s father. Death is so final! Why does the Master insist upon it time and again?

Adagio’s melancholy thoughts mirrored the dark jazz music on the radio. As night fell, she said to herself, “We made those rules to never harm children, because we were changed into Sirens while we were so young. I led Sonata and Aria to break our rules, for the first time in a thousand years, at Canterlot High School. Now, I must break them again to return home. Those three girls would better serve Aquastria as slaves, or better yet, turned to our cause. They’re talented young women. They would rule their own clan!”

She caught a glimpse of her own glowing magenta eyes in the rearview mirror. The navigation system insisted upon turning onto a remote gravel road.

All this death… and even undeath. It grows tiresome. I have to see this plan through for all mermares, but this sacrifice for the Master will haunt my songs forever more. I’m not sure I can endure it alone. Regretful tears formed at the corner of her eyes, which were quickly wiped away as she turned towards the cabin’s driveway.

Adagio parked the Palomino and looked up at a “cabin” that in any other place would be a large, two-story house. Before starting the long unpacking process, she pulled out her phone and texted Aria:

Come to Lake Piebald to help me restore the Master and return home. Text me again when you get to the park Headquarters on the southern shore, and I’ll tell you where to go. Arrive no later than 11 on Saturday night. Be ready for battle.

Adagio concentrated on the disposable cell phone’s “contacts” listing. The name “Sonata” was highlighted. Her face illuminated by the tiny screen’s glow, Adagio was surrounded by darkness with her thumb hovering over the “select” button.

“Daddy!” Sonata Dusk swam quickly towards her father as he entered the hovel.

Dusky Defense swept her up in his fins and happily said, “I’m home, Nata! Never for long and always in secret, my dear, but these stolen moments make it all worthwhile. Where are your mother and brother?”

“Mama’s putting some salve on Coral’s scales. We were playing outside and I told him to get a jewel for my pretend crown. It was only a pretty rock, but he got caught in a current and scraped himself badly on the reef,” said Sonata. Her lilac eyes widened in fear. “I was so scared! I didn’t mean for him to get hurt, Daddy!”

The merstallion held his daughter close, the matching pairs of lilac eyes gazing into each other. “He’ll be all right, I’m sure. It’ll just take a little time and a lot of love.”

Trapped in her thousand-year-old memories, Sonata Dusk stared blankly out of a sixth-floor window of Zodiac University Hospital. She absently watched the sun dip below Canterlot’s skyline. In the distance, the sunset’s orange light reflected brilliantly off of the Apollo Tower’s windows. After several hours of sitting in Big Macintosh’s room, she no longer paid much attention to the scurrying nurses and beeping equipment.

“Still all right, young lady?” asked a nurse after he had finished changing the dressings on Big Mac’s wounds. “For the third time, that cut on your head should have some stitches.”

Sonata shook her head and pulled the thin blanket around herself even more tightly. The nurse pursed his lips disapprovingly and was about to speak again when a petite, energetic woman with fiery red hair approached Sonata.

She opened the chart handed to her by the nurse, then earnestly said, “Miss, I’m Doctor Dawn Scales and I’ve been supervising Big Macintosh’s care. Can you tell me who you are to the patient?”

“I’m his fr...” Sonata trailed off and wiped a tear from her eye. Like a child being punished, she sat up straight in her chair and looked at the floor. “I’m Sonata. I brought him here.”

The doctor crouched down and squeezed Sonata’s shoulder compassionately through the blanket. “Look, I shouldn’t tell you this since you’re not a family member, but he’s going to be fine. It will be a full recovery after he heals. I know you’ve been here for hours, both in the emergency room and up here. Great work, by the way. You got him here so quickly after he was hurt that I was able to get the burns treated, the wounds closed and repair the damage to his left bicep.”

Sonata nodded, and guilty, relieved tears spilled out of her eyes. “Thank you, Doctor.”

“It was very brave of you to help him, but now you need to get some help yourself.” Doctor Scales brushed a lock of red hair out of one eye and frowned. “Half of the hospital staff has noticed that bloody shirt and those torn jeans. Don’t pretend like we can’t see them. Can I take you someplace safe?”

She shook her head and the flow of tears stopped. Determined, Sonata steadily replied, “I don’t want to leave him. I screwed up so badly that I have to watch over him now.”

“Well, at least I’ll know where you’ll be,” said Dawn Scales. She placed the medical chart on a hook at the foot of Big Mac’s bed and resumed her rounds. In the doorway, she turned and looked back at Sonata one last time before departing. “It was nice meeting you, Sonata.”

Soon after the doctor’s departure, Sonata was jolted to awareness by heavy footfalls that were unlike the soft impacts of the nurses’ tennis shoes. The blood drained from her face when the door opened and Sunset Shimmer entered the room, followed by Aria, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Discord. Sunset adjusted the collar of her leather jacket and approached Sonata.

“Thank Celestia! We’ve found them at last!” said Sunset, exuding relief.

In a flash of white light, Discord transformed his clothing into canary-yellow medical scrubs. He grabbed Pinkie by the elbow and her outfit changed into an archaic red-and-white striped jumper representing a hospital volunteer. Discord, his red eyes focused with concern, began a gentle examination of Big Mac’s sleeping form, assisted by a watchful Pinkie Pie.

Sunset glared at Sonata and pointed a threatening finger at her. “It’s taken us hours to find you! Explain this, all of this, right now!” A sweep of her arm took in Big Mac and the entire hospital room.

The Siren shrank into her chair. “I’m so sorry, Sunset. It’s my fault he’s hurt,” she said meekly, with tears welling at the corners of her eyes.

Sonata’s pathetic reaction struck a nerve. In a loud whisper, Sunset seethed, “We were worried that Adagio or something worse had gotten a hold on you. After frantically searching half the city, we learn that you ran off from school, wearing this, no less!” She pinched the fabric of Big Mac’s shirt.

“You told that friendly girl with the tennis outfit that you tripped in Chemistry. You weren’t taking a Chemistry class,” added Aria. She clutched her oversize gym bag in both hands and clenched her jaw.

Discord paused his examination of Big Mac. He wryly said, “Chemistry? You have the wrong subject, my mace-twirling friend. I am reasonably confident that Sonata was attempting a practicum in Biology.”

Rarity shushed Discord, and then removed her backpack. She looked uncertainly at both Sunset and Aria. “We really should get her out of those blood-stained clothes. Isn’t there somewhere else we can discuss this where we won’t be overheard?”

“I have a diagnosis,” said Discord, interrupting the others. “This man has been burned, blasted and has a particularly nasty wound through his arm.” He counted off the maladies on his fingers.

Aria turned her disapproving gaze from Sonata to the Spirit of Chaos and said, “Great work, Doctor Obvious.” Pinkie Pie suppressed a giggle.

“But, there are worse things that could have happened. Right, Sunset?” asked Discord. He raised an eyebrow and stroked his beard.

Sunset paced from Sonata’s chair to the foot of Big Mac’s bed and back again. She folded her arms across her chest and nodded. “You didn’t sense a trace of dark magic, and neither do I. That’s a relief.”

“So he’ll heal completely?” asked Pinkie, inclining her head towards Big Macintosh’s sleeping form.

Discord nodded. “He’s too stubborn and too healthy to stay hurt for very long. If he follows directions, eats his vegetables and rests for about a month, he’ll be good as new. Well, except for the hair on his chest. That’s done for.” He smirked and winked at Pinkie.

Sonata let out a huge breath that she had been holding. “I’d never even thought about magic! At least he’ll be all right. Thank you for giving me a straight answer.”

Five stunned pairs of eyes locked on to Sonata. Sunset Shimmer was the first to speak, her eyes flashing with anger. “You have a lot of guts to say anything to me about straight answers!”

Rarity whispered to Aria, “She should have kept her mouth shut.”

Aria frowned and crossed her arms. “Silence isn’t Sonata’s strong suit.”

Sunset gritted her teeth and angrily pointed a finger at Sonata. “You had better thank whatever higher power you serve at this particular moment that I got here ahead of Applejack and Cheerilee. If I hadn’t, the intensive care unit would have had a new patient!”

Sonata’s mouth dropped open and she covered it with a bruised hand. “They’re coming here?” she asked fearfully.

“Pinkie, stay here with Big Mac and stall Applejack and Cheerilee. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy will be a big help to you. Everyone else, come with me,” ordered Sunset. “I saw an empty conference room on this floor.”

Discord snapped his fingers and Pinkie’s candy-striped jumper was replaced with her normal clothing. As he followed Sunset into the hallway he called back to Pinkie, “They’ll all need fifty grams of peppermint chocolate, stat!”

“Are you alright?” asked Aria as she helped Sonata to her feet.

Sonata sniffed and her lilac eyes were mirror-like with fear. “Not really,” she answered.

“Darling, in case you haven’t noticed, Sunset’s not in a particularly pleasant mood right now,” cautioned Rarity, who was the last to leave Big Mac’s hospital room. “I do recommend you assist us.”

The group stealthily entered a room with a couch, a round table with four chairs, warm decorations and potted plants. The tiny window in the door had blinds to ensure privacy if necessary.

Aria closed the door behind them, secured the lock and pulled the blinds to reduce the chances of intrusion. She set the gym bag containing Chainbreaker on the floor. “This looks like the sort of room made for delivering bad news.”

“That suits me just fine!” growled Sunset. She pulled out the chair farthest from the door. “Sonata, sit down.”

Silently, with her shoulders slumped in defeat, Sonata moved towards the chair. Rarity stepped forward. “Darling, we can’t have you covered in blood, wearing Big Mac’s shirt and exposing one of your legs to the world. Please put these on.”

Rarity pulled a white scoop-necked shirt out of her backpack and a gray pair of sweatpants, then handed them to Sonata.

“Turn around and face the wall, Discord,” said Aria, who guided the Spirit of Chaos to the wall by the shoulders.

Discord protested, “But, I’m a doctor!” Sunset raised an eyebrow in warning, and Discord said, “Fine. Go ahead and protect her modesty, but after thousands of years, there isn’t much I haven’t seen.”

Sonata quickly changed clothes and fixed her long ponytail before sitting. Rarity and Aria exchanged glances when they saw the extent of Sonata’s injuries. For one brief moment, as she was pulling the shirt over her head, Sonata’s face caught the light. Rarity noticed the Siren’s lilac eyes reflecting warmth and her body sparkling with a sky blue glow, which disappeared as quickly as it had appeared.

Rarity nudged Aria with an elbow and whispered, “Something has changed with Sonata. She’s suddenly so graceful, despite those nasty cuts and bruises. And, there’s something else, like a light deep inside of her, but it seems so far away.”

“I don’t know about all that, Rarity. I’d like to think you’re right,” whispered Aria in reply.

Sunset Shimmer finished moving the table and the rest of the chairs. Sonata was sitting alone, in the open, along the room’s back wall. She picked at her cuticles and chewed her bottom lip, the nervousness contrasting starkly with her injuries. Discord and Rarity watched expectantly.

Aria stepped forward and broke the uneasy silence. “It’s time to tell them everything, Nata.”

“Ari, I don’t want to,” said Sonata fearfully.

Slamming a palm on the table, Aria angrily said, “It’s time to stop this word game nonsense. Tell them everything, and by Luna, it had better be the truth!” She motioned Sunset forward to join her.

Sunset Shimmer folded her hands and pointed both index fingers, like a miniature sword, at Sonata. She took a deep breath and began calmly. “Sonata, tell me what happened after we arrived at school today.”

Creditably, Sonata met the green-blue eyes interrogating her. Her voice shook as she said, “I sneaked away from the music room right away and went to the library. I returned a book and made sure that Cheerilee saw me wearing Mac’s shirt.”

“How did you get one of his shirts?” asked Aria. She balled her fists with such force that her purple-tinted knuckles turned white.

Sonata sighed with resignation and folded her hands in her lap. “I stole it from his room last night after we finished singing. But, that’s not all that happened down there.” Her lip quivered.

Discord stroked his beard thoughtfully. Rarity leapt up from the couch, pressed both palms against her cheeks and cried, “Did you and Big Macintosh…?”

“No!” Sonata interrupted. “I wanted to. I tried to. We kissed and we were about to take the next step when Pinkie called us up to see Aria use Chainbreaker for the first time.” Her resolve crumbled and tears spilled down her face as she buried her face in her hands. “I’m so sorry.”

Aria stepped forward, her visage twisted with fury and disappointment. She watched in apparent disgust as Sonata wept. After a long moment, she drew her arm back and brought her open palm streaking toward Sonata’s bruised face.

At the last moment, Aria stopped. She lifted Sonata’s chin with her index finger and said, “No, I won’t hit you. Adagio would have. I probably still would have hit you a week ago, but I won’t now, not after what I’ve learned.” Her violet eyes continued to blaze with fury.

“Aria, I’m very pleased with the way you’ve proven yourself loyal and trustworthy this past week,” said Sunset. Her green-blue eyes never left Sonata. “I must hear your explanation... Continue.”

Sonata gulped and composed herself. “Sunset, I went to your old hideout in the maintenance room. I needed to give Big Mac a reason to be really angry at Adagio. I heard about how he beat the stuffing out of the man who hurt Cheerilee and figured I could make him mad enough to do the same to Adagio.”

“Sonata, you didn’t!” cried Aria. “Like what we did to get past those knights and into the castle in Prance? How could you do that to Big Mac? He’s little more than a boy!”

Suddenly, Sonata’s sadness was replaced with anger at Aria. “By all the rules the three of us made together so long ago, he’s a man, fully grown, and fair game for our plans!” She turned to Sunset. “I used the tools in your hideout to make marks on myself that look terrible but don’t hurt that badly. Well, that’s not entirely true. The one on my head is really painful.”

Rarity gripped Discord’s sleeve. She looked up at him with imploring blue eyes and whispered, “I’ve known Big Mac and Applejack for years! There’s no way he could have resisted her.”

Discord put his index finger to his lips and whispered back, “Sunset and Aria must make Sonata see the truth of things with a minimum of interference from me, Rarity. It’s very important. More important than I could possibly describe.” For a moment, his crimson eyes conveyed a combination of sadness and desperation.

The indignation left Sonata’s eyes and she flatly continued, like she was describing someone else’s actions. “I lied to the tennis girl to use her phone, called Big Mac, slipped away and kept him angry during the whole trip to our old lair at the aquarium. But Adagio was already there waiting for us.”

“So, how did Big Mac get hurt?” asked Sunset. A vein thrummed in her neck from the strain of keeping her temper in check.

Sonata sniffed loudly, wiped her eye and took a deep breath. “Adagio told him the truth about us as Sirens and the awful things I did to feed us. She said it all in the worst possible way in front of Big Mac, and then told me to join her again, to help her trick a banshee called Shrieking Raven, so we could all go home. I got scared and ran off.”

“Oh, come on, Sonata! Not again!” howled Aria in frustration. She rolled her eyes and punched the tabletop. “It was two against one. You and Big Mac probably could have stopped her!”

Her lilac eyes narrowed, but Sonata thought better of it, shook her head and resumed her factual account. “No way, Aria. He was scared of the dark passageways, and, well, I was just a total wreck. I grabbed a fire axe near the exit from the tunnels. I was so scared that I still don’t know why I did that. Anyway, Big Mac and Adagio got to me at about the same time. Adagio called me a coward. I threw the axe at her, but missed. Instead, it blew up some machinery,” she began to cry, “...and Big Mac caught most of the blast.”

Sunset Shimmer had reached her limit. She knifed her hand through the empty air impatiently. “Enough with the tears!” she barked. “It’s time for the most important questions, and all of them start with the word ‘why.’ Sweet Celestia, you don’t even know what we’re up against now, aside from the name ‘Shrieking Raven,’ or why we had to make Chainbreaker! Why did you repeatedly lie to all of us, mislead Aria and try to take out Adagio yourself?”

Discord whispered to Rarity, “I think it’s alright to give them a hint on where to go next.” He snapped his fingers and was suddenly dressed in drag, wearing a poorly-fitting pink evening gown and a butterfly-shaped tiara. He fluttered fake eyelashes and said loudly, using an unnerving falsetto, “Sonata, you’d best start with what you wanted.”

His antics caused a brief fracture in Sonata’s fragile self-control. She leapt to her feet and gestured angrily at the Spirit of Chaos. “How in Tartarus do you know about what I want?”

“I’m Discord. That’s my job,” he replied enigmatically as the gown morphed back into canary-yellow medical scrubs, complete with the ever-present butterfly pin.

Sonata remained standing and turned towards Sunset Shimmer. She twisted her fingers and nervously said, “Have you ever wanted to be a princess, Sunset? I’ve wanted to be a princess since I was a little filly. Mama would read me stories about the kings and queens of old - even a few from the surface world - and I would make crowns out of things I found and sing made-up songs. My twin brother always had to be the prince, even though mercolts and merfillies weren’t supposed to play together.”

“I think I understand, Sonata,” replied Sunset, a small smile finally tugging at the corners of her mouth.

Sonata sadly returned the smile and continued. “I’m sure Aria has told you that after your rainbow destroyed our heart-pendants, our magic has been leaking away. It scares me and I knew once it was all gone, we’d turn into something else or just disappear.”

“Which is why Adagio beat you up last weekend, right?” asked Sunset. She crossed her arms over her chest and raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

Sonata nodded. “Yes, because there’s no way she could ever see herself as a human and no way she could ever admit she had been defeated.”

Aria urged her on. “They need to know our secret, Nata. It’s important that they know what you kept buried.”

Sonata nodded sadly at Aria. “There’s so much more to this story than I can tell now, but the Queen, Adagio’s mother, killed my father in the throne room when he tried to prevent my being given to He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness. Adagio and Aria’s mother saw it all happen.”

“That’s horrible! I… I don’t know what to say,” said Sunset compassionately.

Aria unzipped the gym bag and gestured with the mace. “Sonata, I told Sunset and Discord about our magic bleeding away. When I did, I made peace with that fact in my own way.”

Sonata nodded at Aria. “You helped make Chainbreaker. You chose to destroy your shards.” She looked at Sunset. “I gave mine to you the moment I decided to take the crown from Adagio to avenge my father. I knew the Master would give me a new heart if I were his princess.”

All sympathy vanished from Sunset and Aria’s faces. Aria recovered first, set down Chainbreaker and pointed at Sonata angrily. “I warned you to make the right choices! I tried to tell you that we couldn’t slip into our old ways ever again!”

“But, I’d make everything better. I’d have the Master’s favor, Aria! You’d protect me and I’d make Big Macintosh my prince. Adagio might scare me, but I knew from the moment I met him at Monday night’s dinner that he’d never be scared of her. Applejack and Apple Bloom would be the best sisters I could ever have. Think about how wonderful it would be, Aria! The Apples and I would be a royal family all together!” pleaded Sonata. Her arms were spread wide as she attempted to explain herself.

Aria, completely exasperated, made a frustrated gesture. “No! The Master’s gifts are poison and his promises are lies! That becomes clearer to me every day. I could never have gone along with this plan!”

Sunset reached into her jacket pocket with her right hand and gently pushed Aria back towards an empty chair with her left arm. Her green-blue eyes glittered dangerously as her voice increased in volume. “Do you have any idea what your lies and your selfishness have done? You’re certainly not as clueless as I once thought you were, so the only possible explanation is that you don’t give a damn for anyone but yourself!”

“That’s not true! You’re my friend, Sunset. Most of all, I care for the Apples! I love them!” protested Sonata.

Discord elbowed a horrified Rarity. He snapped his fingers and a bucket of popcorn appeared in his lap. He offered her a bite and waggled his eyebrows.

Sunset’s fragile restraint gave way. She took out the magical necklace and fastened it around her neck. The air tingled with eldritch energy as Sunset angrily continued upbraiding Sonata. “Let’s just leave out the fact that Big Mac and Cheerilee are in love with one another and that you terrorized her and tried to steal him, which is pretty horrible on its own. You ate the Apples’ food. You slept in their beds. You sat at their table, smiling and laughing with them.”

“But, Sunset…” Sonata futilely attempted to break in.

She steamrolled over Sonata’s protestation. Sparks of aqua light periodically flew into the air, punctuating Sunset’s diatribe. “They’re the hardest-working, most honest people I have ever heard of - on both sides of the portal! You’ve even been to their church, Sonata! In what possible world would they be grateful to someone who misled and manipulated them? Do you honestly believe they would let you rule them? We knew that you were up to something, but you fooled the hell out of me. I had no idea your plan, even as hare-brained as it ended up being, was this terrible!”

“Aren’t you going to stop this?” Rarity asked Discord. Her blue eyes were wide with fear.

Discord chewed another handful of popcorn and wiped his hands off on his pants. He shook his head. “Certainly not! Considering what she’s done, they’re going easy on her. I was expecting a blowtorch and a pair of pilers!”

“Apple Bloom showed you pictures of her dead parents, for Celestia’s sake, and you still tried to seduce Big Mac and deceive us all!” Sunset removed her jacket and put her hands on her hips. Haughtily, she said, “Sonata Dusk, you have been a spider that hides in the shadows and a chameleon that has blended in to fool us time and again. You have betrayed my kindness and trust. Do you have anything else to say for yourself?”

Sonata had endured most of Sunset’s rebuke stoically, but cringed when Sunset removed her jacket. With arms protectively wrapped around her body, her voice quavered. “I’m so sorry, Sunset! I’m so sorry to all of you! This isn’t what I thought would happen and I accept responsibility for getting Big Mac hurt. I still think I could have done some good. Just give me another chance, please!”

“Words, Sonata! All I ever get from you are words!” Sunset kicked a nearby chair in her anger, tipping it over. “You sought power, but did so for all the wrong selfish reasons. Let me show you what came from my seeking power through lies and cruelty!”

The necklace around Sunset’s neck began to glow, mimicking her magical unicorn aura. Her flamelike hair began to smoke, but instead of going upwards, the illusory smoke collected near Sunset’s back and spread outwards, like a pair of huge wings.

Rarity realized what Sunset was doing and shouted, “Don’t! I can’t bear to see you like that again!”

“Telling her hasn’t worked, Rarity. I’m sorry, but I have to show her, so nobody else ever goes down that road again!” said Sunset regally as the aqua aura enveloped her and filled the room.

When the magical brilliance dissipated, the entire group gasped with fear. Sunset Shimmer’s skin had taken on a reddish hue, her head brushed the ten-foot tall ceiling, and leathery wings spread from her back, filling the room.

Her humanlike green-blue eyes contrasted with the fangs and serpentine forked tongue that jutted forth from Sunset’s mouth. She hissed at Sonata, and the foul stench of rotting meat escaped her mouth. “Thissss is the monster that I became when I placed Twilight Sparkle’s crown on my head in my lust for power! The same rainbow that struck you punished me, too. But, the crown let me see what I had done to myself through my own choices, and was exactly what I needed.”

Sonata gibbered in terror. She retreated from the chair into the room’s corner and curled into a ball. “Sunset, stop! I beg you!”

“There’s no escape from your own choices, Sonata!” snarled Sunset, gesturing with a demonic claw.

Suddenly, the illusion winked out. Sunset, back to her normal size and appearance, helped Sonata to her feet and grasped her by both shoulders. She implored, “The best part about a fresh start is that you get to make new choices! You get to decide who you want to be!”

Sonata, still trembling, collapsed against Sunset Shimmer and wrapped her arms around her, tears from a hundred disparate emotions exploding forth. “Forgive me! I’m so afraid, Sunset! I’m not like you. You’re so brave and perfect, even more now that you have Equestrian magic. Help me understand!”

Sunset coldly returned the embrace and opened her mouth to speak. Before words escaped, she cocked her head, as if listening to a faraway voice. The fury leeched out of her, like air out of a balloon.

Discord platonically patted Rarity’s knee and said, “That was a bit over the top, but completely necessary. Redemption is a tricky business. The mixture between fury and compassion is very difficult to get right. Trust me, I know.”

Rarity pursed her lips and scooted away from the Spirit of Chaos. “I wanted to forget all about that awful demon, Discord.”

“Darling,” said Discord in an exaggerated attempt to mimic Rarity’s speech patterns, “we can’t forget. We can bury it or we can leave it behind. I suggest the latter option for you. Recent experiences have reminded me that buried things have an awful tendency to rise from their graves.” The pair returned to the drama playing out before them.

The former unicorn unclasped the amulet and held it up for Sonata to examine closely. As she beheld its supernatural beauty, Sunset said, “This necklace is a powerful magic focus. More importantly, it contains a part of you and a part of me. I’m certain it will help us understand one another. May I put it on you? I don’t know what will happen, but something tells me that if we’re going to stop Adagio and Raven, I have to do it.”

Sonata nodded in agreement. Sunset fastened the necklace around Sonata’s neck. Without warning, a wave of magic crashed over the Siren and her mind was overcome by a surge of brilliant, prismatic energy. An enormous crystalline tree flashed across her vision.

An enigmatic voice in Sonata’s mind intoned, “Behold the consequences of a victory steeped in betrayal.”

Sonata Dusk opened her eyes and watched her hand place an empty teacup on the counter. The servants had kept the Apple Family kitchen - her kitchen - very tidy lately. She felt a broad smile across her face as she walked into the entryway and saw bright sunlight streaming through the front door’s small windows. She opened the door and gazed upon a legion of male workers in purple jumpsuits scurrying obediently between Sweet Apple Acres’ barns and outbuildings.

Stepping onto her farmhouse’s porch, she grasped the chain of the porch swing. Sonata remembered the tranquility of the place where she had first sat with Apple Bloom so long ago, which violently contrasted with the hive of activity and the multitude of her people presently working in and around Sweet Apple Acres. Despite the bustle, Sonata reveled in the springtime beauty of the orchard, with the apple trees in full bloom once again.

Sonata’s confused consciousness asked silently, I’m just watching this? But, I feel the wind on my face and smell the dust and flowers of the orchard. I don’t know what I’m going to say! Am I still at the hospital?

Powerless as a spectator, Sonata inhaled deeply and savored the scent of the blossoms. “Applejack, isn’t this a beautiful spring day?”

“As you say, Your High… I mean, Sonata,” said Applejack. Her smile was strained and her puffy eyes were rimmed with red. Applejack’s dull blonde hair limply hung about her shoulders as she moved slowly back and forth on the porch swing. Avoiding Sonata’s gaze, she absently picked at her exquisitely-made silk gown.

What happened to the strong, independent farmgirl? Applejack’s a mess! wondered Sonata’s present self.

Giddy with pleasure, Sonata looked down at her left hand and marveled at the brilliant, two-carat diamond engagement ring paired with a wedding band that was studded with alternating white and black diamonds.

Gliding back into the farmhouse’s entryway, she called, “My prince? I’m going down to the construction site. Would you like to come?”

Big Macintosh exited the family room and approached his wife. “No thanks, Sonata. I’d like to stay here and feed Pearl.” He held a tiny, blue-haired baby over his shoulder, tenderly supporting the infant’s head.

He’s so handsome, and he looks amazing in a suit! And the best part is that he’s given me a child! she thought happily. As she looked closely at Big Mac’s face, her thoughts changed. Something’s wrong with him, too.

“Awww, I think it’s so cute when you call her that, but we must remember to use her full name outside the house: Princess Pearlescent Apple,” she said, kissing first the baby and then Big Mac on their cheeks. “I do wish that you’d let our servants help you more.”

The former farmer carefully laid the infant in the nearby bassinet. He loosened his expensive tie and straightened the obsidian coronet encircling his head. He frowned sadly and said, “There are still some things I need to do for myself, and caring for our child is at the top of that list. Along with that, Granny didn’t have a good night. I need to go downstairs and see if she’s feeling any better.”

Wait, wouldn’t Granny have trouble with the stairs? Why is she in Big Mac’s old room? Sonata thought.

“Of course, dearest! I’ll be back in a little while to spend time with you and Pearlescent,” she said. Sonata ran her left hand through her blue-streaked hair and accidentally poked a finger on one of the spikes of her tiara. While the tip was reddened, the white gold and obsidian protrusion hadn’t broken the skin.

Big Mac clenched the muscles in his jaw and opened the door to the basement. The sunlight reflected off a lock of his light orange hair that had turned gray.

I’m so happy, but why does everyone look so sad? What am I holding that’s so heavy in my right hand? Sontata thought. Hearing a noise outside, her focus shifted and she said, “Oh, look! The banners have arrived!”

As Sonata threw open the front door to the farmhouse, Applejack immediately straightened herself on the porch swing. She chewed her bottom lip and stared blankly at the handkerchief in her hand. Sonata ignored her and walked across the courtyard towards what was once the livestock barn.

“Major, would you be so kind as to let me watch you assemble the first banner?” Sonata asked a young woman, with gray skin and white hair styled in a Prench braid underneath an elaborate hat. The Major wore a blue uniform with fringed black epaulettes.

The woman’s face drained of blood and she immediately dropped to one knee. “Absolutely, Your Highness! How may I serve you?”

Sonata’s present consciousness grew uneasy. She’s so afraid. Why? she thought.

The Princess gestured with something in her right hand. “Just show me the banner, Major.”

Under the stern oversight of the women wearing the blue uniforms, the men in the plain purple jumpsuits quickly assembled a twenty-foot tall frame and secured it to the ground next to the hastily-constructed road leading deeper into the orchard. A rope hung from a roll of blue fabric and reached all the way down to the courtyard.

“Your Highness, would you like to do the honors?” asked the Major, her voice quivering. She nervously adjusted her blue-framed spectacles.

Sonata heard herself answer, “The Prince is indisposed, as is Lady Applejack. But, I simply can’t wait any longer! Major, unfurl the banner,” she ordered.

The nervous young woman yanked on the rope. A twenty-foot long and four-foot wide banner rolled towards the ground and fluttered in the light breeze. A black squid with watchful purple eyes was superimposed atop the background streaked in two shades of blue, with four of the squid’s tentacles wrapped around a bright red apple.

Sonata’s consciousness wanted to look away, but she was trapped in the vision. Are the Master’s arms caressing the apple or crushing it? What is this?

She felt herself rush over to the uniformed woman and excitedly embrace her with her left arm. The Major tensed but was unresisting. Sonata heard her voice say, “It’s magnificent! Are there enough to properly decorate Sweet Apple Acres?”

“Colonel Trixie didn’t say, Your Highness. She is quite busy with the defensive effort,” answered the Major nervously.

Sonata heard the woman sigh in relief as she breezily said, “No matter. This is a great start! I’ll return to the house shortly after I view my new home.”

The simple path through the apple trees had become a gravel road that had seen heavy use in the past year. As she walked, the men in purple jumpsuits dropped to their knees, watched sternly by bowing women in blue. The Princess made way for a truck that was carrying construction debris. A battered couch lay atop the pile of rubbish.

I have so many questions. What are they tearing down and what are they building? What am I gripping in my right hand? wondered Sonata’s disembodied mind once again.

She topped the small rise and looked down into the clearing just in time to see construction equipment topple the brick chimney of what was once the Apple Family smithy. The workers were laying the foundation of an enormous building. Purple-clad men carried huge slabs of stone and black marble, supervised by other men wearing blue sashes and a huge number of the uniform-clad women. Roughly four hundred people crowded the clearing.

Another senior officer, with hawk-like eyes and a mix of brown and blonde hair, left her vehicle, approached Sonata and knelt. She adjusted an elaborate aiguillette and said, “Your Highness, with that building’s removal, we can now start raising your palace.”

A palace at Sweet Apple Acres?! Sonata’s consciousness was stunned.

“On your feet, please, Colonel Gilda. I’m eager to complete my new home and move the court to a more natural setting. It was unfortunate but necessary to knock down that unsightly little shack. How long do you…”

Sonata was interrupted when a young, blue-haired man in a purple jumpsuit broke away from the work party and ran towards the Princess and the Colonel.

Gilda was cruel and sharp in her tone. “Flash Sentry, return to the trucks immediately or face the consequences!”

“No! Sonata, this isn’t you! Stop this madness before it’s too late!” shouted Flash Sentry. Before the guards reached him, he turned back towards the construction site and shouted to the other men wearing purple.

“You’re never going to bring me down!”

The crowd answered, “You’re never going to break this part of me!”

They’re shouting the words to Sunset’s song. Oh, no! What’s going to happen? If Sonata’s consciousness had a stomach, it would have been swimming with nausea.

Pandemonium broke loose at the palace construction site. The men in purple fought to get out of the ring of people wearing blue. Women wearing protective gear and weapon belts sprinted to the scene.

Colonel Gilda and another officer whisked Sonata back to the farmhouse in the command jeep. During the hasty extraction effort, Sonata heard the sharp report of firearms from the clearing. As they approached the farmhouse, she noticed a small billboard with two images placed on it.

By the Maelstrom! No! Sonata’s mind was reeling.

Two wanted posters were displayed side by side. On the left was a picture of a determined Sunset Shimmer, glimmering dangerously and surrounded by a luminous aura. On the right, Cheerilee’s visage snarled furiously, her pale green eyes ablaze with rage. Sonata quickly read that they were “Wanted for Treason.” Among other details, the poster instructed the populace to “assume the fugitives are armed and extremely dangerous. Contact your local Storm Unit if you see either traitor. Monetary reward and patent of nobility offered for information leading to apprehension.”

Sunset Shimmer, what happened to you? I thought you were my friend, thought Sonata.

As they reached the farmhouse, the Major rushed to assist her superior. “Colonel Gilda, that’s the third time this month!”

“Silver Spoon, see to Her Highness, but yes, it’s getting worse. I don’t even want to think about the slaughter that would have happened if Her Highness fell into one of her moods. We got her away from the mob just in time. We are going to have to convince her of the need to take more proactive measures, especially with the younger men who knew the traitors personally,” whispered Gilda, removing her uniform hat and wiping her brow.

Major Silver Spoon fidgeted with the elaborate gold buttons on her jacket. “Is Trixie holding the barrier?”

“Barely. Barring the portal isn’t going to work much longer. The six-pointed stars nearly burst through the shadow shield this morning. Her Highness will have to fight again very soon, so let’s give her some family time before that happens,” she said softly.

“Yes, ma’am!” she saluted Gilda and turned to her liege. “Your Highness, until the men are calmed, it would be best if you remained indoors.”

A battle? I’m fighting in a battle? There’s something familiar about the six-pointed stars, but I can’t focus, thought Sonata.

She felt her shoulders shrug and her lips curve upwards in a pleasant smile. “I’m glad you’re so concerned for my safety. I’m very pleased with the banners, so I’ll celebrate with my family.” Sonata walked past the now-empty porch swing and entered the farmhouse.

The Princess ascended the stairs and heard the all-too-familiar sounds of Applejack sobbing in her bedroom. She went to the next door, which was decorated with a large red bow, opened it and entered the room.

The bedroom was perfectly maintained, with a mix of toys, knick-knacks and books precisely arranged on the shelves. On the unused bed, two pictures were on display. The first was a large photograph of Granny Smith, Big Macintosh, Applejack and Apple Bloom sitting together on the steps of the farmhouse.

The second picture was contained in a hand-made frame that was coated with glitter and had a black ribbon tied around one corner. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo smiled and laughed with one another amid the ruins of their first attempt to build a stage near their clubhouse.

Sonata’s detached spirit was immersed in sadness and dissonance so severe it bordered on madness. The body she didn’t control turned towards the mirror and her disembodied consciousness beheld her beautiful, terrifying reflection.

Princess Sonata Dusk of Imperial Canterlot wore Adagio Dazzle’s tiara, as well as a resplendent deep blue gown, accented with gold that left her shoulders bare. Only the barest trace of baby weight remained on her slender figure. The dim light caused the rings on her left hand to sparkle. A pendant with a huge crimson stone hung around her throat.

In Sonata’s right hand, the item she clutched dangled ten black strands that represented He Who Swims in Darkness’ ten tentacles. She recognized the weapon from Aquastria, and remembered it only in her worst nightmares: a well-used, blood-stained leather whip.

No! Nooooooooo!

Sonata’s mind screamed in horror. As awareness slipped away from her, she heard a rebuke from the mysterious voice. “Be glad that you failed. Cast away the dark mask of fear that shrouds your spirit, or countless lights will be extinguished forever.”

“Help her up!” ordered Sunset Shimmer. Her face was suddenly creased with worry.

Sonata felt strong arms grab her and lower her into a comfortable chair.

Aria Blaze pointed at Sonata’s throat and worriedly asked, “Why is the necklace glowing red? Get it off of her!”

The instant that Sunset unclasped the necklace, Sonata’s unfocused and wild eyes popped open. Her chest heaved and her heart raced as she desperately clutched Aria in her terror.

“Ow! It’s hot!” Sunset exclaimed, fumbling to quickly place the necklace on the side table; as soon as she did, the metal quickly returned to its normal silver-gold appearance.

Discord put his stethoscope around his neck and adjusted his scrubs. “I think you waited too long, my furious friend. She’s been injured.” He pointed at Sonata’s upper chest. The necklace had left a circular burn between Sonata’s collarbones.

Aria relaxed her grip on Sonata and followed Discord’s finger. “It’s not bad. It just looks like she’d been out in the sun too long, but I bet it hurts like hell. We just need some ice and maybe some ointment,” she said.

“I’m on my way,” declared Rarity, unlocking the door to the hallway.

Aria gestured toward Rarity, shaking her head. “No! Not yet, Rarity. We have to get our act together first.”

“It was only on her for a few seconds! How was I supposed to know what was going to happen?” Sunset asked in frustration.

Sonata’s eyes regained focus but didn’t lose their terror. “I saw, Aria! The necklace showed me the future that would have happened if I’d won, and I couldn’t stop or change any of it!” Her intense gaze transfixed Aria. “Sunset and Cheerilee were wanted criminals, Big Mac and I were married and had a baby, and all Applejack did was cry.”

“But that wasn’t the worst part, was it, Sonata?” asked Sunset cautiously. She furrowed her brow and concealed the necklace within the inside pocket of her leather jacket. Rarity returned to the couch and sat next to Discord, who leaned forward expectantly and raised a bushy eyebrow.

Sonata gripped both of Aria’s shoulders, and the crazed look returned to her eyes. She was on the verge of hyperventilating. “I went to Apple Bloom’s empty room. She, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were all dead, I could tell. I turned and looked in the mirror, and… I can’t...”

Rarity gripped Discord’s hand with such strength that he winced in pain.

Sunset edged past Aria and squatted down to put herself at Sonata’s eye level. She said, “Please, Sonata. We must know. Someone I care about very much once told me that getting it all out in the sunlight will help. I didn’t believe her then, but I believe her with all my heart now.”

Sonata bit her lip, nodded and looked at Aria. “I was wearing Adagio’s tiara, and my heart-pendant was back, even larger than before.” She paused, squeezed her eyes shut tightly once, then opened them and said, “And, worst of all, I held the Master’s Whip of Dominion.” Sonata’s body went limp, and she nearly tumbled from the chair.

“Sonata, do you finally understand what I have been trying to tell you about He Who Swims in Darkness?” asked Aria desperately. “He won’t help you, and his crown will make you worse instead of better. He’ll change you into something you hate and help only himself, while leaving you trapped!”

Sonata slipped off her brother’s gift gently, and handed it carefully to Sunset Shimmer. As soon as the homemade keepsake was safe, she tore the spiked leather bracelets from her wrists, and hurled them across the room. Sonata put the brass bracelet back on, ignoring the fact that it was still stained with Big Mac’s blood.

Sunset picked up the discarded bracelets and handed them to Discord. Before Sonata and Aria could protest, she held her index finger to her lips and said, “We’ll dispose of these properly later. Sonata, let’s get you to a place of safety, clean you up and piece together all that we know. It’s all a jumble right now.”

Discord placed the bracelets in what appeared to be a medical waste bag. He carried the package far in front of himself, pinched between his forefinger and thumb. His face was twisted as though the bracelets emitted a foul odor. He said, “I think this is the perfect opportunity for you to practice some fire spells, Baconhair!”

“Now’s not the time, Discord!” barked Sunset.

Sonata ignored Discord’s antics and clutched at Sunset’s jacket as Aria helped her to her feet. Sonata said, “I have to make things right, Sunset! I have to! The doctor said Big Mac would be all right, but I didn’t even think about Applejack and Apple Bloom!” Her pupils were dilated and her breathing was still ragged.

Aria pulled up the blinds on the door’s window and peered down the hall. She smirked and said, “Go figure. There’s quite a crowd in Big Mac’s room now. I see about a half-dozen shadows and Sonata’s in no shape to deal with Applejack.”

“I believe that I can be of assistance,” said Rarity. She nervously smoothed the front of her skirt and fixed her hair in the window’s reflection. “Applejack calmed me down yesterday. It’s only fair that I return the favor, though I admit that this situation is somewhat more severe than my, um, issue.”

Aria shouldered her gym bag that concealed the magic mace. Wrapping her free arm around Sonata, she shrugged her shoulders and said, “It’s your call, Sunset.”

Sunset Shimmer looked at each of them in turn as she weighed her options. Sonata’s eyes were wide and she trembled against Aria, who looked at Sunset expectantly. Discord poorly feigned apathy, because his eyes kept darting to Big Mac’s room while he stroked his beard. Rarity kept her right hand on the door handle and nervously played with her left earring.

“Okay, here’s what we’ll do to get us through the next few hours,” Sunset said confidently. She pointed at the pair of Sirens. “Aria and Sonata, you’ll come with me to my old apartment. I didn’t ever want to go back there, but it’s mine and it’s reasonably safe. We need to let Sonata calm down so she and Aria can piece together Adagio’s plan with Shrieking Raven.”

Rarity threw Sunset Shimmer the keys to her car. “Take the convertible, darling. Please don’t let Sonata bleed all over the seats,” she said, and punctuated her comment with a wink. “What about me? Do you like my plan?”

“I like it very much. Rarity, you and Discord need to calm down Applejack, Cheerilee and Apple Bloom. Applejack has to be with us whenever we make our move,” Sunset answered.

Discord swept his hands across his chest, magically changing out of the medical scrubs and restoring his normally outlandish suit. He was obviously distracted, as his red eyes kept looking at the shadows dancing inside Big Mac’s room. “So, when and where will we reconvene?” he asked.

“Provided you can get the Apples back on an even keel, let’s meet at the Carousel Boutique later tonight,” said Sunset. She groaned as she looked at the clock. “It’s already getting late and I think we’re running out of time. I’m glad I had that nap.”

The entire group nodded their agreement in differing levels of enthusiasm. Sunset Shimmer took charge and said, “Okay, let’s open the door. Discord, give us a distraction and we’ll see you later!”

“With pleasure! Oh, but you’re going to need this,” Discord handed Sunset Shimmer the thick Aquastrian history book, and was then the first to leave the conference room. He produced a collection of balloons and flowers that nearly blocked the hallway. Rarity followed close behind.

As Sonata, Sunset and Aria scurried by, they caught a glimpse of the scene in Big Mac’s hospital room. Cheerilee, still dressed for school, had thrown herself over her boyfriend’s legs, and her shoulders convulsed with powerful sobs. Fluttershy comforted her, and her face lit up when she saw Discord coming through the door. Rainbow Dash’s eyes went wide with surprise as she hugged a crying Applejack. Pinkie Pie was smiling at a tall man in a black suit, who turned around when he heard the commotion in the hallway.

Scorpan smiled and laughed loudly. He stepped into the hallway and parted the cloud of balloons with his hands. “Discord! In all my years, I never thought I’d see you in this city. You certainly must have changed to be seen with…” He trailed off as he watched the trio retreating to the elevator. Scorpan shook his head sadly, his brown eyes transfixing Sonata with a look of profound, abiding disappointment. She cringed and turned away.

As Sonata, Aria and Sunset reached the elevator, they heard Applejack’s furious shout. “Where is she? Where is that lying varmint?” There was a pause. “No, Rarity, I sure as shooting won’t sit down! Father Scorpan, I know it’s not the right answer, but it’s her fault my brother’s in that bed! If she ever comes back to Sweet Apple Acres again, she’ll leave in an ambulance!”

Sonata wailed in guilt as the elevator doors closed. Aria did her best to comfort her while Sunset led the way out of the hospital. They walked briskly across the parking lot and located Rarity’s white convertible. As she started the engine, Sunset’s phone beeped loudly as a result of receiving two text messages from Rarity:

The older message read: Big Mac saved me lots of trouble. He heard AJ shouting and groaned “Not Sonata’s fault. My fault.” AJ’s still angry but not as bad as before. Seems Discord and Scorpan know each other.

The newest message read: We have a problem. AB, Sweetie and Scootaloo haven’t been answering their phones. AJ’s been calling for ages. Yes, the reception’s terrible out there, but still, 1 of 3 should be picking up. Sunset, we have to find them!

“We’ve made a good start, but there’s not enough light to keep going tonight,” declared Apple Bloom. She tossed a carpentry hammer into the nearby toolbox.

Scootaloo chuckled, and made air quotes as she teased Sweetie Belle. “Hey, be glad that our ‘fearless leader’ gave you a break so you don’t hit your thumb with the hammer any more!”

Sweetie Belle pouted and shone a flashlight on her left thumb, illuminating the ruined nail polish and a couple of tiny bruises. “I just want to hurry up and finish the stage so we can work on the scenes and the songs!”

“Hurrying up is what caused this whole thing to come down around our ears in the fall!” said Scootaloo. She helped Apple Bloom fix the oversized bow holding her red hair back. “Besides, Apple Bloom made better blueprints this time!”

As she continued to make use of the gray twilight to put tools away, Apple Bloom proudly said, “Hey, we’re almost all the way through our first year of high school. I’m just glad that one of my classes was good for something useful!”

Sweetie Belle wrapped her arms around herself and shivered. “How about we make a fire? That would be useful! Besides, I’m hungry and could use some dinner.”

“Sweetie Belle, let’s go get some wood while Apple Bloom finishes up,” said Scootaloo as she flicked on a flashlight. “Wow, the weather cooled off a lot more quickly than I thought it would after the sun went down!”

The two girls walked together out into the woods, singing and laughing. In the gathering darkness, the bright light from the flashlight eerily danced off of the tree trunks in the forest near the clubhouse and stage.

Apple Bloom closed and latched the toolbox and carried it towards the clubhouse. As she neared the door, she saw a dark silhouette deftly scoop up three cell phones and drop them into a purse.

“Hey, what are you doing?” shouted Apple Bloom

Raven turned around and faked a worried facial expression. She shouldered her designer handbag and stepped out of the clubhouse into the clearing. The literature teacher was dressed for a walk in the woods, wearing jeans, hiking boots and a light sweater.

Her black eyes twinkled as she grasped Apple Bloom’s upper arm. With a sigh of relief, she said, “I’m so glad I’ve found you! Apple Bloom, where are Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo? There’s been a terrible accident! All three of you must come with me.”

Hearing the conversation, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo dropped their harvested firewood, and jogged back to the clubhouse.

“Ms. Raven, what are you doing here?” asked Sweetie Belle, nervously flipping her two-toned curls with a hand. “We don’t even have a stage yet, let alone a draft for a play.”

Scootaloo elbowed Sweetie Belle in the ribs. “Quiet! You heard what she said. This isn’t a social call.”

“Girls, this is going to be quite a shock. Are you ready?” Raven paused for dramatic effect and theatrically placed a hand on Apple Bloom’s shoulder. The three girls nodded at the teacher. “I need you to come with me right now. Big Macintosh was badly injured chasing after Adagio Dazzle earlier today. Everyone’s at the hospital.”

“Is he going to be all right?” asked Apple Bloom. Her face became pale and her bottom lip quivered. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo put their arms around their friend.

Raven motioned for the three girls to follow her and started walking across the clearing to the path. “I don’t know! Cheerilee stopped me at work and told me to find you and bring you back with me.” She stopped and turned back towards the clubhouse. She tapped her purse. “Listen, I found your cell phones on the floor in your little clubhouse and put them in my handbag. We can come back for the rest of your things later.”

The three girls looked at one another uncertainly. Apple Bloom broke the silence and ran towards Shrieking Raven. She cried, “I have to get to my brother! Come on!”

Raven stifled a smile as the three girls followed her along the path, through the gap in the fence and back to where Raven’s luxury sedan was parked along the side of the road. A pile of schoolwork topped by an overcoat strategically blocked the passenger seat. The car’s lights blinked twice and the door locks clicked open.

Scootaloo was the first to reach the back seat, where she made a discovery. “Cupcakes!” she exclaimed. “Don’t sit on them, Sweetie Belle.”

Raven slid into the driver’s seat and started the car’s powerful engine. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were settled in the back seat. Scootaloo leered greedily at the half-dozen homemade cupcakes she held in her lap.

“Please, don’t let them go to waste, girls!” Shrieking Raven invited the girls to eat. “I was going to a party, but that’s been overtaken by more important concerns. I know that it’s past dinnertime, so enjoy them during the drive. Please don’t get frosting on the upholstery. There are napkins on the plate.”

Sweetie Belle rapidly devoured a towering chocolate cupcake. Between bites, she said, “Thank you, Ms. Raven! You thought of everything.”

The teacher chuckled. “Indeed I have, Sweetie Belle.”

“Hey, you need to turn back towards town if you want to get to the hospital!” said Scootaloo, wiping the frosting off of her face with a napkin.

Apple Bloom carefully folded the empty cupcake paper into her napkin, and then jumped into the conversation. “Could you hand me my phone, Ms. Raven? I want to call my sister and let her know we’re on our way.”

“It’s all right. I texted Applejack before getting out of the car. Just relax, Apple Bloom. I’d love to hear more about what you were building out there.”

She yawned, adjusted the bow in her hair and replied, “Well, if you remember, our first try to build a stage didn’t go well, but I finished a good set of blueprints in shop class. We’ll do better this time!”

“Sweetie Belle, how about your scriptwriting?” asked the banshee, looking at the girls in the rearview mirror.

Her chin bobbing towards her chest, Sweetie Belle jerked upright and said, “Oh, I’m sorry, Ms. Raven! I just wanted to get to the songs, but there has to be stuff and a story and something else first…” she trailed off, leaning her head against Scootaloo’s shoulder.

All three girls quickly succumbed to Shrieking Raven’s potent sleeping draught, which had been baked into the delicious cupcakes.

Raven verified that the girls were slumbering and smiled wickedly. She reached over to her purse and silenced each of the girls’ phones, all of which indicated a large number of missed calls and text messages.

She turned on the radio and tuned it to a classical music station. The banshee immersed herself in the music and gloated. “Tomorrow portends to be a perfect mixture of vengeance and victory. Enjoy your dreams, girls, for they will be your last!”

*****

Author's Note

Thank you all very much for your recommendations to make this update a single large chapter instead of two smaller chapters! I appreciate your taking the time for such a lengthy read. I appreciate the help and attention to detail offered by IsabellaAmoreSirenix, SerenaAveline and EstrellaEssentia to edit, prepare and pre-read this update.

I also want to express my gratitude to iisaw and TonicPlotter. Their stories were the inspiration for the “dark possible future” segment. The Celestia Code and Bad Future Crusaders were among the very first stories I encountered on FIMFiction.net, and their outstanding writing and meticulously crafted worlds motivated me to pick up a pen (figuratively) for the first time in many years.

This chapter almost certainly marks the end of the second act, which means that even though there’s quite a lot of story remaining, more is behind us than ahead of us. I hope that you continue to enjoy Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer, and I look forward to your feedback and comments on this update! Once more, thanks to you all!

Chapter Nineteen

“I need to get the fields to align. Hold on for a second,” said Sunset. A greenish-blue aura enveloped her hands as she concentrated on Rarity’s white convertible. The glow was mirrored in the circular, magically-crafted gemstone set into the necklace she wore.

Aria Blaze looked warily up and down the dark, deserted street. A stray cat yowled in the distance, and she toyed with the zipper on the gym bag she carried. “Hurry up, Sunset! This isn’t exactly the high rent district.”

“And, now!” The magical aura flared briefly. Light streaked from Sunset’s hands and surrounded the automobile.

The light dissipated and Sonata looked at Rarity’s car. Her mouth fell open and she sputtered, “How did you… Is that even… No way!”

The gleaming white convertible had been replaced by a rusty four-door sedan. The wheels had been removed and the entire vehicle sat on cinder blocks.

Aria smiled at Sonata. “It only looks like a rust bucket. I suspect that Rarity’s car is still there. Right, Sunset?”

“One thing I learned from this neighborhood is that if it looks worthless, nobody will steal it,” she said, and added a conspiratorial wink. She removed the necklace and placed it back into her jacket pocket. “This should last for a few hours. Let’s get Sonata inside.”

As they navigated the dirty, smelly stairwell, Aria looked back at Sunset and commented, “I’m surprised you’re so good at illusions and enchantment. You don’t conceal much about what you’re thinking or how you’re feeling. It’s a good thing you don’t play poker.” Aria paused her ascent, turned back toward Sunset, raised an eyebrow and added, “No offense, of course.”

“None taken, Aria. Oh, I used to be a great actress. No, let’s just call it what it is – I was a great liar. How do you think I got elected Princess of the Fall Formal? And before that, how do you think I kept all my schemes secret? I’ve just learned, from truly brutal lessons, that it’s just a lot easier to tell the truth,” Sunset said plainly, ending her reply with a shrug of her shoulders.

Sonata followed Aria from the stairwell into the hallway. She nodded and said softly, “I’m finally starting to figure that out, Sunset. Thank you.”

“Don’t thank her yet. We still have a big problem on our hands,” grumbled Aria as they reached the door to Sunset’s tiny apartment. The worn carpeting next to the door smelled like vomit and cheap alcohol. She wrinkled her nose and said, “I still can’t believe that you used to live here. No wonder you turned to a life of crime!”

Sunset held her breath to block the stench, unlocked the door and entered her disused apartment. Once safely inside, she inhaled and then said, “Hey, I made bad choices. I lived by myself, let my ambition take over my thoughts and did some terrible things as a result. I probably would have done the same stuff if I lived in a suite at the Crystal Plaza.”

Fluttershy and Aria had done a great job tidying up the cheap apartment. With most of Sunset’s personal belongings relocated to the Sweet Apple Acres smithy, the dwelling was uncluttered and reasonably comfortable. Sunset switched on additional lamps, whose warm light dispelled the dark shadows lurking in the corners, but revealed fine cracks in the paint and walls.

“This isn’t so bad. I’ll take running water and heat any day,” said Sonata, looking around the apartment. She dropped the hospital blanket on the arm of the brown hide-a-bed, which was in its sofa configuration. “You did a great job getting things cleaned up. From what you said, Adagio really trashed the place. Dirt floors aren’t that distant of a memory.” Her facial cuts and bruises contrasted with her warm smile.

Aria shook her head and the corners of her mouth inched upward. “Dirt floors? What are you talking about this time, Sonata?” she said, pretending to be stern. Not able to conceal her relief, Aria’s smile broadened and she patted the other Siren on the shoulder. “It’s good to hear you getting back to normal.”

“Hey, you two,” said Sunset, who removed her backpack and set it on the floor. “My journal has been buzzing for the past three hours. I need to see what Twilight wrote to me.”

Aria put her hands on her hips and declared, “Then I’m going to tend to Sonata’s wounds. Do you have a needle, a thread and a match?”

“Oh, no!” groaned Sonata. She rolled her eyes as she tentatively touched her temple with a fingertip. “It’s not that bad, is it?”

Sunset raised an eyebrow and pursed her lips in thought. She snapped her fingers as the memory came to her. She said to Aria, “Yes! There are matches in the drawer next to the silverware and I think there’s a sewing kit somewhere in the medicine cabinet.” Sunset crossed her arms and turned towards Sonata. “Hey, you did this to yourself, remember! We just want that cut to heal without too much of a scar.”

Before Sonata could protest again, Aria pointed a purple-tinted finger towards the bathroom and gruffly ordered, “Of course it’s that bad. You did quite a number on your head. Into the bath with you, Sonata! No more complaining!”

Sonata’s lower lip protruded. She appealed to Sunset. “Can’t you cast the same spell you used to heal Aria?” Her eyes darted back and forth as she admitted, “Alright. I hate needles, but I hate scars even worse.”

Sunset shook her head. She said apologetically, “I need some more practice. Healing spells aren’t exactly my strength. When I cast that spell earlier in the week, it was a desperate situation shared with friends, fueled by emotion and music. I’d need a lot more study before I could pull that off again.” Smiling sympathetically, Sunset added, “Besides, scars add some character.”

“Fine.” Sonata shrugged her shoulders in resignation and started for the bathroom.

Aria said, “I’ll be there in a little bit, Sonata.” She removed the prepaid cell phone from her pocket. An orange icon was illuminated on its front. Aria opened the phone, punched a couple of buttons and gazed at the screen intently. Her mouth fell open as she read.

“What is it, Aria? It is from Adagio?” asked Sunset, obviously concerned.

Shaking her head in disbelief, Aria handed the phone to Sunset. She said simply, “Read.”

Sunset read the text from Adagio that contained her orders for Aria: Come to Lake Piebald to help me restore the Master and return home. Text me again when you get to the park Headquarters on the southern shore, and I’ll tell you where to go. Arrive no later than 11 on Saturday night. Be ready for battle.

“Get Sonata patched up. I need to write Twilight again. I think I have Adagio’s plan just about figured out,” said Sunset, whose eyes darted around the room. Her skin turned a couple shades paler.

“What is it, Sunset?” Her violet eyes narrowed suspiciously.

Sunset waited for Sonata to shut the bathroom door. She leaned forward and whispered nervously, “I need you to find out exactly what Adagio told Sonata. I remember what you said to me when you woke up at Rarity’s about how the three of you were given to He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness. The fact that the Crusaders are missing scares the hell out of me.”

“I could text Adagio back and find out more,” offered Aria. She held out her hand and Sunset returned the phone to her.

She shook her head. “No, Aria. Not yet. An immediate reply with a question could make her suspicious. I think we should try to piece this together ourselves, first. You’ll realistically only have one chance to report back and ask for more instructions. We don’t want to waste that.”

“I understand, Sunset. Is there anything else for now?” asked Aria, flipping her voluminous pigtails back behind her shoulders.

Sunset pressed her lips together and glanced at the closed bathroom door. “I was concerned about Sonata, and that text has turned it into full-fledged worry.” She put her hand on Aria’s shoulder. “I know she’s going to want to come with us to fight Raven and Adagio, but I need you to prepare her for the fact that I’m going to leave her behind.”

“Why would you do that?” Aria crossed her arms and cocked her head. “I’m not sure I like this idea.”

Nervously fidgeting with the cuffs on her leather jacket, Sunset hesitantly asked, “What’s the most powerful magic that the Rainbooms can bring to bear?”

“Oh, I see.” Aria’s frown deepened. “Skip the polite questioning, Sunset. You’re worried that Applejack and a couple of the others won’t be able to tap into their magic and make the big alicorn appear if Sonata is there to piss them off.”

Sunset put her hands on her hips and took a step forward. She continued to whisper. “Listen, considering the very specific time in Adagio’s text, I don’t think we can convince everyone that Sonata has gotten with the program in the next twelve to sixteen hours. We need to have all our friends focused.” In the bathroom, the water gurgled as Sonata began to draw a bath.

“Well, I don’t want to agree with you, but I might have to. First, she’s certainly not in top condition for battle with those cuts and bruises. And second, as much as I hate to admit it, Adagio did have a point,” said Aria, glancing once more at the closed bathroom door.

Sunset took a step forward, narrowing her eyes. “What do you mean?” she asked.

“On Wednesday morning, I told you just a little bit about the battle between us and the alicorn princesses. I’ll tell you a little bit more now,” said Aria. Her violet eyes were intensely focused.

“Go on, please,” said Sunset.

“We were so powerful from absorbing negative energy that we became overconfident. Adagio thought we could overwhelm the Equestrian legion quickly if we split up and attacked separately. Adagio was to attack the general, which turned out to be Princess Luna. My duties were crowd control and finding Princess Celestia. I never found her, but I kept the pegasi away from Adagio.”

Sunset cupped her chin in her hand. “So, what was Sonata supposed to do?”

“Her job was to attack the unicorn formation, the one that we later learned was led by Starswirl the Bearded. She never made her move. Sonata kept her distance, and we never heard her singing,” answered Aria, with an exasperated gesture.

Spreading her arms wide, Sunset sympathetically said, “Hey, I’m glad you lost, but that doesn’t seem cowardly. Maybe something kept her from going on offense.”

“That’s why I never held it against her, but Adagio has always had doubts. She’d only call her a coward when she was especially angry, but it always hit a nerve with Sonata,” said Aria. “Alright, I need to get to my sewing project and you have to attend to your journal.”

Sunset nodded. “Good luck in there, Aria.”

“You too.”

As Aria slipped into the bathroom, a cloud of steam escaped. Sunset smiled as she sat in the center of her sofa. In her lap, the Equestrian tome periodically glowed red and buzzed insistently. Brushing a lock of red-and-gold hair out of her face, she took a deep breath and opened the journal:

Dear Sunset,

I’m so proud of you! We all are! You have done the impossible, but I have to admit that I’m a little upset you disproved several hypotheses I had about Equestrian magic. But there’s no time for that right now. There’s only so much we can tell from a picture, but the magical mace appears to be a very potent weapon. I’ve never seen Luna look at a picture so closely before. In the end she simply said, “Admirable,” and hoofed the photo back to me. But that pales in comparison to the necklace. I hope you’re sitting down. This is my updated supposition:

You have forged an Element of Harmony. Just like I thought, you are an Element Bearer!

I don’t know how you did it, but the magical resonance from even a picture of the necklace was unmistakable. I have so many questions. Luna and Celestia haven’t acted so cryptically since they sent me off to the Crystal Empire almost a year ago. They listen to me attentively and signal their approval, but don’t give me much in the way of answers, except to tell me that they will explain everything to me after your victory.

But it’s your victory that I’m worried about, Sunset. First, Senator Crashing Wave has returned to Aquastria. But before he left, he told me about the dark legends surrounding Leviathan from the Imperial era. Every so often, three merfillies were given to him by the Queen as either sacrifices or servants. The legend says that their souls powered Leviathan’s dark magic, which is centered upon fear and enslavement. The Sirens were his most powerful servants, but not much is known about the sacrificed merfillies. The bottom line is simple: Adagio must not wake Leviathan!

Second, I had to dig through the dungeon levels of the ruined castle in the Everfree Forest to find anything about banshees or Shrieking Raven. The fragments I found were even more terrifying than Crashing Wave’s tales from Imperial Aquastria. Talk to Discord, Sunset. While he ruled Equestria, he cast out all of the undead and forbade the worship of Vecna, the Chained God who was (and may still be) the overlord of undead.

Only a few creatures merited individual mention. Vecna’s chief missionary in Equestria was a vain unicorn who begged to be transformed into a banshee to preserve her youth. This pony was first referred to as the Viceroy of Chaos, and then later by the name Shrieking Raven. During the early days of Celestia and Luna’s rule, Vecna’s minions made a comeback, but were defeated in the field by Starswirl the Bearded while the royal sisters successfully defended Canterlot itself.

A partnership between Adagio Dazzle and Shrieking Raven would be the stuff of nightmares. You must stop them. Please tell me you’ve learned more about their plan.

Yours in friendship,
Twilight

Sunset exhaled loudly. She said to the book, “An Element Bearer? Me? I think my scholarly friend has sprained her horn on her crown. But, I’ll harass her about this later. This whole thing with Adagio and Raven is even worse than I thought. I’d better write Twilight right now.” Sunset uncapped the pen she had given her and began to write:

Dear Twilight,

I’m sorry that it’s taken me several hours to get back to you. Today has been a very difficult and emotional day. I wish that you were here right now. I’ll sum up the current situation as best I can.

Sunset wrote a concise, but complete, report of the day’s events. She began with lunch in the music room and the group’s realization that Sonata had disappeared. Wiping a bead of sweat away from her temple, Sunset concentrated on describing the growing unease she felt when they questioned Cheerilee and learned of Big Mac’s unexplained absence from the farm. She wrote about how she and Aria cornered Tennis Match at practice and learned about Sonata’s injuries. Sunset penned the group’s growing terror, and the last-ditch effort to call Canterlot’s hospitals before she attempted to cast a series of risky, very visible divination spells.

Sunset quickly told Twilight the story about their initial relief to have finally found Big Mac and Sonata safe and sound in the hospital room. She factually summarized the interrogation and the reprimand that culminated with Sunset’s illusory transformation into a demon. And then, Sunset concluded with Sonata’s tearful, horrified description of her vision and their retreat to Sunset’s apartment. She wrote a brief closing:

Worst of all, we can’t find Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. They aren’t answering text messages and phone calls go straight to voicemail. I’m scared for them, for us, and for the worlds on both sides of the mirror. How did you become brave enough to do all those things that are immortalized in stained glass in the Canterlot Throne Room?

Your faithful friend,
Sunset

She closed the book and the red-and-gold sunburst glowed intensely for a moment, and then the tome resumed its normal appearance. Sunset pulled out her phone and replied to Rarity’s recent texts with an order:

Rarity, send a group to the forest to see if they can find the girls. I hope they just forgot to charge their phones.

Sunset stood, moved to the kitchen and began brewing a pot of coffee. As the energizing brown liquid dripped into the carafe and filled the apartment with its distinctive aroma, she heard two distinct buzzes from the apartment’s main room. Sunset returned to the couch and grabbed her mobile phone to read Rarity’s reply:

We’re ahead of you, darling. PP, Discord and FS are on their way to the clubhouse. RD, Father Scorpan and I will stay here until AJ and Cheerilee are a bit better.

“Thanks, Rarity. I’m glad I can count on you,” said Sunset as she typed the same words into her phone. She picked up her Equestrian journal, then said to herself, “That was awfully quick! She must have had the book with her.” Sunset opened the tome and read the response:

Sunset,

Thank Celestia you wrote! After finishing my research, I was worried that something had happened to you. While it seems like your episode with Sonata was (and is) scary and difficult, I’m glad that you didn’t run into more trouble with the banshee or Adagio.

I didn’t start out to be a hero, or a princess, or even a friend. It all started with me being scared that Celestia didn’t know about the signs showing that Nightmare Moon was about to return. All of us get frightened, even Rainbow Dash, but it’s what we do about it that matters. I just thought about all the ponies – and people – that would have been hurt, killed, enslaved or cocooned if I did nothing.

You can do this, Sunset. You’re an Element Bearer. You’ve brought aspects of Trust, Forgiveness and Balance to the Sirens and to our friends at CHS. But, the turbulent purity of Sonata’s vision combined with your, well, passionate temper cements my original hypothesis. You are the Bearer of Redemption.

Are you sitting with your book? I’m here in the library by myself for a few minutes, if you have it with you. It would be like inter-dimensional text messaging!

Twilight

Sunset closed her eyes and smiled. She pictured Twilight standing at a crystalline table, surrounded by shelves of books. The alicorn would be looking at the Equestrian journal impatiently, pacing back and forth with her hooves making a rhythmic clip-clop sound on the castle floor. In her anticipation, Twilight would have her quill pen at the ready, illuminated by her horn’s lavender magical aura. Sunset opened the book and immersed herself in writing her friend:

Redemption, Twilight? I had enough trouble getting myself back on the right track, even with your help! I don’t think I can take credit for all that. I’m so scared and so uncertain. Aria, Sonata, and all of the rest – even Discord - are looking to me for answers. Why do you think they chose to follow me?

As she closed the book and sent her message to Twilight, the sounds of singing from behind the bathroom door startled Sunset. She couldn’t hear the lyrics, but listened intently as Aria’s alto and Sonata’s soprano voices merged together into a major-key duet. Sunset’s complex emotions were brought to the fore, and she fought down a growing lump in her throat as she read Twilight’s rapid reply:

Sunset, you are a beacon of hope. You have shown your friends and so many others that there is a path out of the darkness. It was, and will continue to be, a long, difficult journey. Forever more, you can take pride in that you have set a shining example on both sides of the mirror. You are a different leader from me, guiding our friends with a passionate strength and boldness that I could never pull off. You know what I like best about the new Sunset Shimmer? Her selflessness, displayed to her friends as confident humility.

Sunset Shimmer blushed and shook her head at the effusive praise heaped upon her by the Princess of Friendship. She immediately responded to Twilight:

I don’t see it, Twilight. I just haven’t had any time to reflect upon the others looking up to me as a leader, or the implications of what happened at the Battle of the Bands or at the Sweet Apple Acres smithy. I’m just glad that I’m not alone anymore. But, I have a job to do before I can even think about resting on my laurels.

The spellbinding singing in the bathroom continued, repeating the same tune over and over. Sunset had only seen her friend as an alicorn once, but an image came unbidden to her mind’s eye of Twilight furiously scribbling at the page, her wings half-spread, and her purple eyes narrowed in focused concentration. Sunset’s journal buzzed again, delivering another short message:

You’re absolutely right about the threats you face. Use the fact that Discord seeks atonement for his crimes and is desperate for his own redemption. Fluttershy’s plea on his behalf still rings in my ears. As an aside, she’s been gazing at the portal an awful lot lately, and I overheard her asking Spike if she could set up a bed down here. Anyway, you are braver and more intrepid than I ever was. While I sent Discord through the mirror to help, you are truly my champion and my friend. You saved us all a week ago with your song, and with these newly-forged tools at your disposal, you’ll save us all again and defeat this more dangerous enemy.

I must go for now. As Luna would say, good luck and success to you, Element Bearer.

Twilight

Sunset closed the book and took the Element of Redemption out of her jacket pocket. Gazing deeply into the unearthly whorls and loops of the magically-fused gemstones, she used her index finger to trace the wavy line dividing light and dark. A single teardrop fell on the center of the design, and then Sunset put the amulet around her neck. She took a long sip of coffee, swallowing tears along with the caffeine.

Sunset patted her journal affectionately. “Thanks, Twilight,” she said. “Thanks for believing in me when nopony else would.”

Sonata came up for air after spending another minute and a half underwater in Sunset’s bathtub. She inhaled and asked Aria, “Was your dream with Lady Luna as terrifying as my vision?”

Flipping her long pigtails behind her shoulders to keep them dry, Aria leaned forward and put her arm on the edge of the old bathtub. “We both had incredible encounters with powers beyond our ability to understand, Sonata. I just think that we were both shown what we needed to see at the right time.”

“Hmph,” pouted Sonata. “I just wish it didn’t have to be so awful for me.” The bruises on her arms had become significantly less angry-looking after twenty minutes in the claw-footed, antique tub. The burn from Sunset’s necklace was more stubborn and retained its sullen, red hue.

Aria patted Sonata’s damp hair. “Let’s see, you had your vision after a young man was gravely injured because of your actions. I had my vision during a near-death situation after watching a girl lay flowers at her parents’ graves. But, He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness horrified me all the same. I think the universe got it right for both of us.”

“At least Lady Luna was there to greet you. I’ll never forget the sight of myself holding the Whip, no matter how long I live,” said Sonata, shivering despite the hot bubble bath. “So, I’m guessing that it’s time for the part I hate.” She lightly touched the wound on her left temple.

Lighting a match, Aria heated and disinfected the threaded needle. “Don't complain too much! I've always wondered what happened to the Manehattan surgeon that taught me how to do this." She looked into Sonata's eyes, and seriously said, "Alright, get ready. I’m guessing it’ll take about fifteen stitches, so hold still. By the way, you did a great job turning your head into a disaster. What did you use, anyway?”

“Um, a pipe wrench. It was heavy, jagged and made of steel,” said Sonata, suppressing a wince as the needle entered her blue-tinted skin.

With steady hands, Aria completed the first two stitches. “Sonata, Sunset and I are going to have a very important job for you,” she said cautiously, her violet eyes flicking away from the stitches for a second.

“What’s that?” asked Sonata through clenched teeth. Despite Aria’s careful needlework, a drop of blood ran down her cheek and plopped into the bathwater.

Aria completed several more stitches during an uncomfortable silence. At last, she replied steadily, “If Discord, the Rainbooms and I don’t come back from our fight with Adagio and Raven, you must write Twilight and ask her to open the portal. Go through it and tell her everything, then return and avenge us.”

“You’re not going to let me come with you?” Sonata asked during Aria’s next pause in her task. Her lilac eyes portrayed a mix of sadness, betrayal and determination. “How am I going to make things right if I can’t fight?”

Aria remained silent for a long moment. She finished the last stitch, cut and tied the thread, and then tenderly cleaned up the neatly closed wound with a washcloth. She touched Sonata’s trembling cheek with her purple-hued fingers, and quietly said, “By remembering us if we fall, and by welcoming us with open arms if we win.”

Sonata brought her fist down into the tub, splashing them both. She angrily said, “No, Aria! This is a battle where I can prove myself! I know I can help you!”

“Nata, how will you help? I can fight with Chainbreaker. You’ve lost the magic part of your voice, and your other charms will be useless against Adagio and Raven.” Aria sighed and hung her head. “No matter what happens, I fear at least one member of our trio will end up dead. One of us has to live, and that will be you.”

Sonata surrendered. She buried her face in her hands and cried. Aria bunched a sleeve above her elbow, reached into the tub and tenderly stroked the skin of Sonata’s back. Tears streamed down both Sirens’ faces.

“Sing with me, Aria. Please?” requested Sonata. She sniffed loudly and cleared her throat.

Aria withdrew her arm from the tub. She smiled sadly at Sonata and answered, “Of course. I’ll follow your lead.”

Sonata nearly began to cry again, but composed herself and sang in a confident soprano:

I was walking in the park
Dreaming of a spark
When I heard the sprinklers whisper
Shimmer in the haze of summer lawns

Then I heard the children singing
They were running through the rainbows
They were singing a song for you
The one I wanted to write for you

Aria, weeping openly from the first moment she recognized the song, joined in after the introduction:

Lavender's blue, dilly, dilly, lavender's green,
When I am king, dilly, dilly, you shall be queen.
‘Who told you so, dilly, dilly, who told you so?'
Twas my own heart, dilly, dilly, that told me so.

They sang several verses, some of which they had learned in Trottingham and some of which, like the introduction, they had made up after traversing the sea. Some verses were silly, many were sad and a few were happy. Sonata’s melody and Aria’s harmony flawlessly blended together like gold and star iron. When they finished singing, Aria, who no longer cared that her pigtails were soaked, reached out and hugged Sonata.

Aria grabbed a hairbrush and said, “We have one more task before we can plan our next move with Sunset. Let’s get those tangles out!”

“Thank you for singing with me again, Aria,” said Sonata softly.

Working to free a particularly nasty knot, Aria deftly shifted subjects. “Let’s talk about exactly what Adagio said to you about her plan.”

“Hmm… Let’s see. She said a lot about our obligation to He Who Swims in Darkness and taking revenge on the alicorns. Then, she told me enough that I figured out that Raven the teacher is really a banshee,” said Sonata. She bit her bottom lip and a faraway look came into her eyes.

Still brushing Sonata’s long, blue-streaked hair, Aria paused and said, “Focus, please…”

“Hold on, I’m thinking!” protested Sonata. “Wait, I’ve got it!”

Aria set the brush down and looked into Sonata’s lilac eyes. “Then spit it out!”

Sonata grabbed two locks of hair and twisted them into makeshift curls. She pointed theatrically at Aria, and deepened her voice in a reasonable impression of Adagio. “‘Come, Sonata, serve your Queen. With a small sacrifice that I will prepare for tomorrow night, we will become true Sirens again, betray Raven and go home at last.’”

Aria spat out a singularly vulgar obscenity. Blood drained from her face, turning her skin a sickly hue of lavender. She said, “I know what’s going to happen. Sunset needs to hear this right now.”

As the water drained out of the tub, Aria helped Sonata dry off and dressed her in Sunset Shimmer’s cheap maroon bathrobe. Sonata tied her hip-length, blue-streaked hair into its customary ponytail without saying a word. Her lilac eyes looked at Aria worriedly.

Aria opened the bathroom door and she and Sonata gasped. Sunset Shimmer was sitting cross-legged on the sleeper sofa with her eyes closed, a beatific expression on her face. Her magical necklace, glowing intensely, was fastened around her neck. The Aquastrian history book, Sunset’s journal, the desk chair and the desk itself hovered in mid-air, with each object surrounded by green-blue light.

Sunset’s eyes opened. She kept her concentration and said, “One moment, ladies. The desk is a bit heavy.” The desk and its chair returned to their normal places, and the books came to rest on the sofa. She raised her eyebrow in concern. “Aria, what’s wrong?”

Aria clenched her fists once and then relaxed her hands. “Sunset, I know what Adagio’s plan is. She and Raven are going to make a sacrifice to Leviathan to wake him tomorrow night.”

“I suspected this myself,” said Sunset calmly. She frowned. “But, why are they going all the way to Lake Piebald?”

Sonata stepped forward. She crossed her arms and said, “Adagio told me, many years ago, that a mix of darkness and water is needed for an offering to her Master.” Aria smiled briefly at Sonata’s disavowal of Leviathan.

“The southern shore of Lake Piebald is a touristy wilderness. There are a couple of big caves near the lakeshore,” said Sunset. “It makes sense.”

Sonata looked at Sunset quizzically and asked, “How do you know that?”

Sunset blushed and twirled a lock of red-and-gold hair around her finger. She answered, “Um, Rarity’s father suggested Lake Piebald for a weekend encounter before I blackmailed him.” Before either Siren could respond, she pointed at the pair and added, “I refused to leave Canterlot, by the way.”

Aria gruffly interrupted, “The worst part is that a proper sacrifice to He Who Swims in Darkness involves three young females on the cusp of maturity. With Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle missing, I think we both know what that means.”

“That somewhere along a thirty-mile lakeshore that’s mostly wilderness, those three girls are being held captive by a thousand-year-old Siren princess bent on serving her dark Master and an undead literature teacher equipped with potent death magic,” said Sunset grimly.

Sonata uncertainly asked, “So what are you going to do?”

“What we’re not going to do is sprint off into the night in a panic. Whatever Adagio has planned won’t happen until tomorrow night. Let’s not give away our chance to surprise them. Aria, get me the road atlas in the bottom drawer of the desk,” said Sunset.

Aria rummaged through the scratched-up drawer. “Here you go, but I’d feel better with some good topographical maps.”

Sunset glanced at the alarm clock and handed Aria her phone. “Once we gather at Rarity’s, we can use her network connection to gather a bit more information. Text everyone and tell them to meet at the boutique in two hours. That’s only a bit after midnight.”

“I’m on it!” said Aria enthusiastically. She opened the phone’s contact listing and began her task.

Sonata sat next to Sunset on the sleeper sofa. “I’m pretty good with maps, Sunset. Let me help.”

“Thanks, Sonata. You know Adagio’s mind better than anyone right now,” said Sunset. She patted Sonata’s hand. “To save those girls and stop Adagio, we have to anticipate what she and Raven will do.”

Scorpan chuckled with delight as he reached into the walking cloud of mylar balloons and brightly colored flowers blocking the hospital’s hallway. As he spread his hands, revealing Discord’s mischievous gray face, the minister cheerfully said, “Discord! In all my years, I never thought I’d see you in this city. You certainly must have changed to be seen with…”

Upon hearing Discord’s name, Applejack sat bolt upright and untangled herself from Fluttershy’s embrace. Her pretty, honest face was twisted with anger. She shouldered her way past Pinkie Pie, and followed Scorpan’s disappointed gaze into the hallway. Applejack nearly pushed past the two men into the hallway as she shouted, “Where is she? Where is that lying varmint?”

Rarity interposed herself between Applejack and Discord. She tried to soothe the furious farmgirl. “Darling, please have a seat. Discord and I will explain everything to you.”

Applejack angrily rejected the suggestion. “No, Rarity, I sure as shooting won’t sit down!” She balled her fists and again attempted to make her way past the priest.

“Sonata has certainly learned something from all of this, Applejack. Violence isn’t the way to move past this awful situation,” said Scorpan patiently, his earlier mirth replaced by concern.

Placing her hands on her hips, Applejack halted her advance. She frowned and said, “Father Scorpan, I know it’s not the right answer, but it’s her fault my brother’s in that bed! If she ever comes back to Sweet Apple Acres again, she’ll leave in an ambulance!”

The argument stopped abruptly as Big Macintosh’s massive form shifted in the hospital bed. All eyes turned towards the young farmer. His jaw was set stubbornly as he slowly pointed as his sister.

He croaked, “Not Sonata’s fault!” His index finger tapped his bandaged chest. “My fault!”

“Oh, Mac!” Cheerilee threw her arms around her boyfriend’s neck. “I’m so glad you’ll be all right!”

His green eyes were dulled from the effects of the anesthetic, and he winced in pain from Cheerilee’s embrace. Big Mac looked at her and said, “Forgive me, Cheerilee. Please.”

The teacher gripped her boyfriend’s hands and said, “There’s nothing to forgive, my dear. I’ll stop keeping secrets from you, if you do the same.”

Mac squeezed Cheerilee’s hands in return, smiled weakly and slumped back under the covers.

Applejack’s anger dissipated, replaced by relief. She approached the bed, patted Big Mac’s head and smiled at him. Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Rarity exchanged relieved looks across the crowded hospital room. All of them gathered around the bed to wish Big Mac well, except for Fluttershy, who smiled and remained in her chair. Rarity bent over her phone, rapidly tapping out a text message.

Discord placed the balloons and flowers in a corner of the room. He stroked his white beard and raised his bushy eyebrows as he turned back towards Scorpan. “So, where were we? I think we were talking about profound changes over a long period of time.”

“The way you tell stories, it would take about a decade for you to do it properly. Let’s embrace the magical limits imposed on us in this form and summarize. You go first, Discord. I think your story is likely more interesting than mine,” he said. Scorpan’s brown eyes twinkled with amusement.

A clipboard appeared in Discord’s hands. He tapped a series of checkmarks on the attached paper as he said, “Was turned to stone, which ceased my reign, and was then employed as a garden decoration. Broke free, briefly returned chaos to Equestria, was defeated and petrified again. Then, I was paroled by Celestia, and decided to reform my behavior to earn somepony’s friendship.” His crimson eyes accidentally locked with Fluttershy’s teal gaze. Discord blushed and continued. “Betrayed the friend, and was betrayed in turn by your brother. I was saved by a new alicorn princess, who returned your brother to his dreary prison after an epic, world-shattering battle. Motivated by some rather odd emotions, I volunteered to come here to stop the Squid and the Maimed Skeleton.”

Keenly aware that Fluttershy was watching him intensely, Scorpan raised an eyebrow and lightly touched Discord’s butterfly lapel pin. He said, “Something very important has changed, Discord. Something, someone or somepony has become more important to you than frivolously abusing your power.”

“Can we discuss this another time? We’re surrounded by curious ears,” said Discord self-consciously, as he gestured to Fluttershy’s seat with his chin. “Besides, it’s your turn, Scorpan.”

He adjusted his clerical collar and spread his long arms wide. “While you were gracing Celestia’s garden, I warned Celestia and Luna about my brother’s plan to seize all of Equestria’s magic. After his imprisonment, I was wracked with guilt for letting things get to the point where Tartarus was the only option, so I asked Starswirl to send me here. I keep a low profile, and have sworn to serve, advise and protect. After all, since my kind has a history of guarding houses of worship, my becoming clergy wasn’t as big of a step as you might think. In the months since Princess Twilight Sparkle brought Equestrian magic and the Power of Harmony here, things have been more interesting than they have been in at least seventy years.”

“How do you know of Twilight, Scorpan?” asked Discord. He suddenly wore a policeman’s hat and shined a bright flashlight into the priest’s brown eyes.

Scorpan gently lowered Discord’s arm. He answered, “The same way I learned of Luna’s return and of the current threat we face. Forgive me for not telling you all my secrets, Discord. I sense your change, but my dim memories of you are decidedly unpleasant. Perhaps I will tell you more after you prove yourself in the battle to come. Unfortunately, this distraction has given our enemies their best chance for success.” More loudly, he addressed the entire group. “Has anyone heard from Apple Bloom? She should be here by now.”

Rainbow Dash piped up. “We’ve been calling all three of them like crazy, but the calls are all going right to voicemail.”

“When we called Sweet Apple Acres looking for Sonata and Big Mac, one of the hands mentioned that they all stopped by the farm right after school. They grabbed their backpacks and some tools, then headed for their clubhouse,” said Fluttershy softly. She put a hand to her mouth.

Applejack kissed her brother on the forehead and stepped back towards the center of the room. “Apple Bloom had been working on plans for a new stage, and the signal isn’t very good out there. Maybe they just set their phones down while they’re working, so they don’t get crushed.”

Rarity bent over her phone again and sent a second text.

“Ever since noon, my Pinkie Sense has been telling me ‘catastrophe’ over and over again, and it’s not just because I bombed my Chemistry test. I wish I had something useful to tell you,” added Pinkie.

Rarity shook her head and tossed her purple hair. She said authoritatively, “Here’s what we’re going to do. First, we are not going to call Granny Smith. Big Mac will be fine in time, and she can’t help us with this Crusaders issue from Appleoosa. Are we clear?”

Scorpan and Discord smiled at one another. Applejack elbowed Rainbow Dash and whispered, “And, we’re letting her give orders, because?”

“She has the hots for our real leader along with a great speaking voice?” said Rainbow Dash.

Rarity continued, oblivious to the stealthy ridicule. “Cheerilee, I assume you’ll want to spend the night here with Big Mac. Rainbow Dash, Applejack and I will remain here and ensure that all is well with you before we depart for the boutique.”

“Thank you for your anticipation and generosity, Rarity,” said Cheerilee warmly. She continued to hold Big Macintosh’s hand as he rested.

“You’re welcome, darling.” She turned to Fluttershy and patted her shoulder reassuringly. “Now, my dear, you must take Discord and Pinkie Pie to the Crusaders’ clubhouse to see if the girls are there.”

Fluttershy looked back at Rarity fearfully and asked, “Why me? It’s so scary out there at night!”

“Fluttershy, you know the forest better than all of us, so it only makes sense. Furthermore, you were at the clubhouse recently when you rescued Aria. Discord and Pinkie Pie will warn you of any dangers if you must beat a hasty retreat,” said Rarity.

“It’ll be an adventure! I’ll take the Coltswagen while you and Discord ride in the van,” declared Pinkie.

Applejack nodded at Rarity and said, “When it’s time, I’ll grab the truck and give you a lift. Rainbow Dash will actually be able to sit in the cab this time, too.”

“Father Scorpan, you are certainly welcome to join any of our groups, but we don’t wish to put you in any danger, nor do we wish to involve you in our schemes. I have a feeling that what’s to come may not be entirely legal,” said Rarity hesitantly.

Scorpan stepped forward and shook hands with Rarity, his large tanned hand engulfing Rarity’s delicate white one. He said, “As you grow older and wiser, you’ll learn that the laws of the heavens differ from the laws of men and women.” He gave Discord a meaningful look, and added, “After I leave the hospital, I will assist you as I can from the parsonage.”

“Then let’s get to it!” directed Rarity.

Fluttershy, Discord and Pinkie Pie said their goodbyes. Scorpan offered his hand to Discord, who shook it uncertainly.

The priest gazed deeply into Discord’s red eyes for a moment, then finally said, “Don’t be afraid, Spirit of Chaos. Your powers aren’t diminishing. They are merely changing because of the decisions you’ve made. Good luck, and guide Sunset well.”

“Scorpan, your cryptic comments must be Celestia’s payback for running those ponies all around Equestria searching for the Elements of Harmony last year,” said Discord. He rolled his eyes in annoyance, then composed himself. “But, thank you all the same.”

Pinkie Pie skipped out of the hospital room, practically dragging Fluttershy with her. Discord brought up the rear and closed the door behind him.

With the crowd in the room significantly diminished, Rarity approached Applejack and guided her to a chair. Sitting down next to the farm girl, Rarity patted Applejack's calloused hands with her manicured fingers and said softly, “I am quietly going to tell you everything we learned about Sonata’s misadventure with your brother. You, darling, are going to remain calm, and will keep in mind that I am certain that Sonata has abandoned her mischievous ways for good.”

As Rarity started a long, detailed description of the conversation with Sonata, Scorpan fell silent as he examined Discord’s gifts. Amid the tranquility, Rainbow Dash self-consciously scratched her multicolored hair. She took a tablet computer out of the waterproof compartment of her sports bag and approached Cheerilee.

“You’re going to be here all night, right?” Rainbow Dash hesitantly asked Cheerilee.

Cheerilee let go of Big Mac’s hand and brushed her purple hair out of her face. She smiled and said, “Yes, I am. I’ll stand watch over Mac. What’s on your mind, Rainbow Dash?”

“Well, I know how much you like to read the Daring Do books. Let me show you a website that’ll keep you both entertained for a good long time,” she said, handing over the tablet. The banner at the top of the screen read “DaringTales.net - Where you continue the story!”

Gratitude and a pinch of amusement lit Cheerilee’s pale green eyes. “Fan fiction, Rainbow Dash? I didn’t figure you for the type.”

“Um, the stories written by ‘AwesomeShredder20’ are worth a look.” Her magenta eyes darted around the room nervously.

Cheerilee smiled warmly and gave Rainbow Dash’s shoulder a light punch. “I’ll make sure to read them to Mac. Remember, Rainbow Dash, I wasn’t captain of the CHS soccer team that long ago. You can balance reading and sports, if you choose to. May I give you some free advice while Rarity and Applejack talk?”

“Yeah, I’d like that,” said Rainbow Dash, returning Cheerilee’s smile. “I’d like that a lot.”

Scorpan turned around and watched the two pairs of young women talking with one another softly. Big Mac was truly sleeping now, his broad chest rising and falling regularly. Unnoticed by the others, Scorpan folded his hands and bowed his head in silent prayer. After concluding, he smiled proudly, grabbed his dark jacket and stylish broad-brimmed hat, and quietly slipped out of the room.

Adagio slipped out of the cabin’s front door and stood on the porch as Raven got out of her sedan’s driver seat. The luxury car’s dome light illuminated the three teenage girls slumbering in the back seat. She had just returned from her trip to the ranger station, the battlefield graveyard, and the cave where she would depart this world at last. Adagio crossed her arms and stifled a yawn with her hand. Her orange curls were tangled and the flannel shirt she wore was stained in a dozen places.

Raven checked her watch. She smiled smugly, and said, “Good evening, Adagio. It appears that your meeting with Aria didn’t go so well, since you’re here by yourself.”

“I think we can still expect the pleasure of Aria’s company before tomorrow’s big event. But no, I wasn’t able to see her, because I had to handle an unforeseen situation. Fortunately, it didn’t blow up in my face.” Adagio frowned and motioned for Raven to enter the cabin. “Don’t worry, I was still able to complete all of the necessary preparations in spite of it all.”

The banshee removed a small suitcase from the trunk and retrieved a stack of school papers from the passenger seat. As she rolled the suitcase to the porch steps, Raven said, “Good work, Adagio. I’d like to go inside and make sure that the basement is ready to receive our guests. Please carry the girls inside.”

“Of course, Raven,” said Adagio through clenched teeth. She grudgingly made way for the banshee, permitting her entry into the cabin.

It was close to midnight. The moon, waning towards a crescent, was high overhead. Adagio’s keen ears heard the waves lapping the nearby lakeshore, and the cool breeze felt invigorating after her flurry of physical labor. She stifled another yawn, then opened the sedan’s rear doors.

She unbuckled the girl with pale skin and two-toned curly hair first. Adagio lifted her and said to the sleeping girl, “So, you’re the younger sister of the keytar player who wounded Aria during the Battle of the Bands. The other children say you’re quite a singer, little one. The Master will be pleased about that.”

Adagio carefully carried her prisoner up the front stairs and into the cabin. She walked through the well-appointed kitchen and shouldered open the door leading to the basement. At the bottom of the stairs, the floorplan opened into a single large room that had been converted into a makeshift barracks.

At first glance, snug white sheets and warm wool blankets made the four twin-sized beds appear simple and comfortable. But the steel chains that trailed away from each bed into eyebolts, sunk deep into the concrete floor, made it clear that guests sleeping in those beds would not be there of their own volition. There were no windows, and the inner surface of every wall and door was covered with thick soundproofing panels.

She laid Sweetie Belle into the bed farthest from the stairs and squeezed her eyes shut as another enormous yawn overtook her. When Adagio opened her eyes, the girl’s two-toned curls had disappeared, replaced by long blue-streaked hair bound in a ponytail. She gasped, blinked again, and the image vanished.

Adagio rubbed her eyes and muttered, “I really need to get some sleep.”

She stomped back up the basement stairs and found Raven sitting comfortably in her leather easychair, calmly grading papers. A small chest, similar to the one that Adagio had brought with her from Canterlot, sat on the hassock at Raven’s feet.

“You look terrible, Your Highness,” said the banshee. “Good work with the basement, by the way. May I make you a cup of tea once you finish your task?” Raven squinted her black eyes and looked Adagio up and down.

Adagio replied politely, “No, thank you. I’ll fix myself a snack once the girls are secure.” She went back out into the starry night.

She unbuckled the young woman with the short, dark pink hair. Adagio noticed a large glob of frosting smeared across her orange-tinted cheek. She picked up a napkin from the floor of the car, wetted it with her tongue, and maternally scrubbed the chocolate from the girl’s face.

“Scootaloo, the thrill-seeker. She supposedly desires two things more than anything: She wants to learn how to fly, and she craves acceptance from Rainbow Dash,” said Adagio. The snaps of the young woman’s cargo pants snagged on the Siren’s buttons. In frustration, she shifted her grip on the unconscious girl and tossed Scootaloo over her shoulder. As she did, Adagio was smacked in the face by a long, purple-and-teal streaked pigtail.

Adagio’s glowing magenta eyes darted around the cabin’s front yard, but found nothing suspicious. As she carried her burden to the basement, she thought, What in Aquastria is going on? Why did the tomboy’s short hair make me think of Aria? She laid Scootaloo in the second bed, and began her third trip.

Raven had returned to her work. As Adagio passed through the kitchen, she observed her silently writing a lengthy comment in red ink on the cover of a literature report.

Once outside again, the Siren princess looked up at the moon and the now-familiar constellations. A shooting star flashed across the sky. Adagio smiled sadly and thought, I will miss the splendor of the night sky. It’s sad that the air-breathers don’t truly appreciate the beauty they sleep through.

Approaching Raven’s car, Adagio gasped. The third girl, whose skin tone resembled her own, sat with excellent posture with her hands folded in her lap, despite her slumber. Her wavy red hair had curled during the long drive, and the enormous red bow she wore accentuated the effect.

Adagio said admiringly, “She looks almost regal. Apple Bloom, the youngest scion of the Apple family. More stubborn than her brother, and as brave as her sister, she is a veritable font of potential. By the Master, sitting there, she looks so much like…”

Standing in the dark driveway, her face illuminated by the car’s dome light, the Siren was drawn into a nearly-forgotten memory:

Adagio sat on the fallen tree trunk outside of their cave, with those unusual appendages folded into her lap. As the rain fell around them, she straightened her posture as Aria and Sonata struggled to keep the fire lit. The long, homespun garments they all wore were filthy and had developed numerous holes.

Aria sprinkled more dried leaves on the tiny spark. The flame was reflected by her pendant, sending scarlet sparkles into the forest. Aria turned to Adagio and said, “Listen, Your Highness, there’s only three of us here. If we’re going to learn how to survive in this world, you can’t just sit on a makeshift throne and sing a tune to everyone that wanders by,”

The leaves caught fire. Sonata ceased her blowing at the base of the fire and added a few twigs to the fickle flame. Like the others, her face was gaunt from a lack of both mundane and emotional food.

Sonata brushed her fingers through her dirty blue hair. She fidgeted with her pendant and said, “But she’s our leader, and she looks so beautiful like that, Ari! You know, she’s sitting just like that woman we saw at the castle last week. Princess, you’ve gotten the hang of using these things,” Sonata said admiringly, wiggling her arms and legs.

Adagio hopped down from the tree trunk and approached the fire. She wiped the rain off of her forehead and placed a hand on each of Sonata and Aria’s shoulders. Adagio appraised the other Sirens with her keen magenta eyes. Smiling, she confidently said, “I don’t know how long we’ll be here, but we need some rules that the three of us will follow, so I can be properly responsible for us. Here’s the first rule; don’t call me ‘Your Highness’ or ‘Princess’ anymore. My name is Adagio. What other rules shall we make?”

Pleased with her memory, Adagio reached into Raven’s car and cradled Apple Bloom. As she lifted her, the Siren felt a chill and goosebumps raised on her skin.

Adagio affectionately brushed a lock of red hair away from the young woman’s face and quietly said, “Apple Bloom, the Master will like you most of all. I stand by my comment to Sonata. If you had been born a mermare, I know you would have risen to lead your own clan. More than the others, I hope that the Master will let you serve me in Aquastria.”

Bumping the car doors closed with her hip, Adagio carried Apple Bloom into the cabin.

As she crossed through the kitchen, Raven gestured with her red grading pen and loudly remarked, “It took you a while to fetch that one, Adagio. I was starting to wonder if everything was alright out there.”

“I was just admiring the moon and stars, Raven. Once I’m underwater again, I won’t see them again,” Adagio lied convincingly.

Once Apple Bloom was laid in the third bed, Adagio removed the young women’s shoes and boots. She set to the unpleasant task of handcuffing their hands and feet together and attaching them to the nearby chains.

“We can’t have you wandering off, ladies, not when victory is so close. But, I’ll make sure that you, as my honored guests, are as comfortable as you can be under the circumstances,” said Adagio to the sleeping trio.

She pulled the sheets and blanket over Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, and carefully tucked them in. They looked so serene, unaware of the terror and sacrifice to come. Adagio’s fingers searched her throat for the nonexistent pendant.

Nodding with resolve, she pulled out her phone, took a deep breath, and texted Sonata:

Sonata, it’s Adagio. I regret how we parted. I hope the farmer lived. Now, you must live. Do not come to Lake Piebald tomorrow night, but encourage Discord to do so if you can. If I survive, I will find a way to return for you using the Master’s power. Sing, paint and remember.

Adagio rubbed her tired, watery eyes. She composed herself and rubbed her growling stomach.

“All set, Raven. How long do you think they’ll sleep?” asked Adagio. She poured herself a glass of water straight from the tap and grabbed a handful of snacks. Adagio made sure to examine each product’s package carefully to ensure that it hadn’t been tampered with.

The Siren’s close examination of the cabin’s food wasn’t lost on the banshee. Raven chuckled dryly and said, “I’m proud that you’ve learned from my nasty trick with the tea. But, I give you my word that all the food and drink stored up here is completely mundane, if a bit fattening.” She checked her watch, and added, “Oh, the sleeping draught should keep the girls unconscious until nearly noon.”

“Good. Then, I’ll be able to get some rest, too,” said Adagio as she shoved a large handful of candy-coated chocolate into her mouth and opened a tin of tiny sausages. “So, what do those devices that I placed in the graveyard do? Your instructions were more detailed for them than for the preparations in the cave. I thought it would be the other way around.”

Raven set down her red pen and focused completely on Adagio. “Tomorrow night is critically important for both of us. I’m consuming, using or draining several unique magical items to guarantee our success. The surprises you planted and appropriately tuned will ensure that we’re not disturbed. Even if we are, the interlopers will be so weakened from battling the graveyard’s residents that we can finish them off easily,” she said, smiling with malicious satisfaction.

“Why do you think that they’ll head for the Crystal Cavern instead of the Bridal Cave?” asked Adagio.

Raven shrugged and replied, “All the paved roads lead towards the ranger station and tourist attractions. Even if they pick the correct cave, which they might not, their paltry party will still have to walk across the old battlefield. There’s no cover out there, so my servants will find them easily.”

Adagio gulped. Every single item she had placed was covered with potent magical runes, all centered on the terrifying sigil of the burnt, one-eyed skull.

Eager to shift the subject, she said, “I assembled the cage near the pool in the cave and set up the lanterns and other items. But, I’m still not clear how we’re going to get three teenage girls from here to there. I won’t be able to carry them down that steep path, and they need to be conscious and aware for the ritual.”

“I’ll brew a shorter-term potion that will make the sacrifices extremely susceptible to suggestion,” said Raven, who gestured at Adagio admiringly. “With your silver tongue, I’m certain that you can keep them quiet and obedient until they’re safely secured in the cage. If abused and used too frequently, the potion will harm the victim’s mind. But, that takes weeks, and our victory will be complete in a day.”

Adagio nodded, since her mouth was full of treats that weren’t available underwater. After she swallowed, she said, “Indeed. In one day, I’ll be back home with my magic restored. I look forward to planning the assault on Nautilus Hall, and returning the mermares to their proper place in Aquastria. What will you do here?” She watched the banshee carefully.

Raven waved her hand dismissively. She flashed a patronizing smile, and said, “Never you mind, Adagio. My Lord will grant me additional powers, which I will use to shatter the portal to Equestria, severing the link between your world and mine.” Raven smacked her fist into her palm. “Once the flow of Equestrian magic is stopped, there will be nothing to prevent me from sitting on a throne of my own, and expanding my Lord’s holdings. I’d wager that this world will be unrecognizable within three months.”

Adagio’s eyes narrowed in concentration. This terrible creature must be destroyed, or else I’ll never be able to come back for Sonata, she thought. Aloud, she calmly addressed the banshee, “So you will have your world to rule, and I will have mine. Perfect!”

“One day, we may have conversations about treaties, non-aggression pacts and slave exchanges. But, I can see you’re exhausted, and need to rest before your big day,” said Raven, reaching out to the stack of school papers. “I’m happy to take care of the dishes, Adagio.”

The Siren finished her makeshift meal, wiped her hands with a napkin, and placed her plate on the kitchen counter. “Thanks, Raven. I’ll see you in the morning.”

As Adagio ascended the stairs, she thought, I must barter with the Master to transform at least one of those girls downstairs. They have such potential for greatness. She wiped her tired face with her hand. They’re tribute, Adagio! When did I start thinking of them as subjects, and therefore, my responsibility? I need a bath and lots of sleep. Adagio retired to the guest bathroom.

Downstairs, Raven heard the sounds of Adagio drawing a bath. She smiled cruelly and unlocked the chest sitting on the nearby hassock. She reached inside and pulled out the magical dagger. The shards of Adagio’s pendant glittered malevolently in their crude setting.

Rotating the dark, soul-destroying weapon in her skeletal fingers, Raven said, “A big day, indeed, Adagio, full of beautiful, powerful death. The death of innocents. The death of enemies old and new. The death of royalty...” She threw her head back and cackled. “...and the death of a god.”

*****
The lyrics to Sonata and Aria’s duet were modified from (1980’s rock band) Marillion’s song “Lavender” and blended with the nursery rhyme “Lavender’s Blue” to create a unique reprise of Sonata's song from Chapter Four.

Author's Note

Welcome to the beginning of Act III! I hope that you enjoyed this chapter and thank you very much for taking the time to read through this update's definitive revelations, caring moments and cryptic messages. Fortunately, I was able to get this chapter completed more quickly than what has become a normal, two-week publishing cycle.

The fact that I took my daughter to a certain live-action princess movie last weekend certainly influenced Sonata's choice to reprise "Lavender's Blue." I hope that those of you that have seen the remake of Cinderella can forgive me for indulging in a little sentimentality.

Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer continues to be a labor of love, even as the number of remaining chapters dwindles. I'm grateful to be assisted by such a selfless, wonderful team that makes sure that I tell this story as well as I am able (while teasing me mercilessly). So, with that, I thank you all once more, and I look forward to your reactions and comments!

Chapter Twenty

“...and Aria was so much heavier than I thought she would be. She looks skinny, but she is all muscle. I’m glad Rainbow Dash arrived or I never would have gotten her to Sunset in time,” said Fluttershy, who twirled a lock of long, pink hair around her index finger as she drove.

Halfway through the drive, she had begun telling the story of Aria’s rescue and had nearly drowned Discord in an uncharacteristic verbal tsunami. The Spirit of Chaos gripped the armrests tightly.

Discord gulped and interrupted Fluttershy. “My dear, while I know it’s polite to look others in the eye when you speak to them, I would feel much safer if you would keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. We’re no use to those girls if we slide into the ditch.”

“Oh, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are very inquisitive and resourceful! I’ve been babysitting them for a couple of years. The first time they came to the cottage, it didn’t go so well. But, they’re so open to trying new things that all I had to do is suggest that a chore was an adventure, and they were off and running!” Fluttershy’s teal eyes were practically gleaming in the reflected light from Pinkie’s car.

A ride with Pinkie might have been quieter, thought Discord as the van rumbled along behind Pinkie’s Coltswagen. Rarity was right about her attraction to me! I’d bet that Fluttershy has never, ever talked this much. I’ll have to handle this delicately. He turned to his left and said politely, “I’m so glad that you feel comfortable enough to tell me all about this, Fluttershy.”

She reached a pale yellow hand across the console and patted the Spirit of Chaos on his leg. “I just feel like you truly understand me, Discord! I’m so grateful!”

Discord shook his head in confusion. He thought, I wonder if the ancient advice saying that ‘the man who has two women soon finds himself with none’ holds when the pair are essentially the same person! Where’s Scorpan’s insufferable gargoyle wisdom when I truly need it?

Mercifully for Discord, Pinkie Pie activated her turn signal, gently applied the brakes and pulled off to the side of the road. Fluttershy brought the ancient van to a stop behind the pink Coltswagen. Aside from the headlights, the area was completely dark.

Fluttershy’s enthusiastic behavior brought a memory to the front of Discord’s mind:

“And perhaps these things just take time,” Discord said smugly, as he appeared in the center of Ponyville.

Discord watched Fluttershy trot forward enthusiastically, her wings half-spread and the affection evident in her teal eyes. She leapt and embraced him. “You’re back! Did you bring the cucumber sandwiches?” Fluttershy hovered, gracing the Spirit of Chaos with an expectant smile.

“I did,” Discord replied cheerfully. He caused a perfectly arranged plate to wink into existence. A menacing undertone crept into his voice as he added, “I imagine they’ll be your last decent meal for quite some time.” Selfishly thinking only of the power and rewards promised him by Tirek, he looked directly into Fluttershy’s eyes, seeing only bait to lure Twilight to his partner in conquest. Finally liberated of his amicable feelings, Discord upended the entire plate of sandwiches onto the ground. To ensure there was no mistaking his malicious intent, the Spirit of Chaos twisted his mouth in a mockery of a smile.

Discord watched as Fluttershy’s eyes widened in shock. He witnessed her realize the depths of his betrayal. Her pupils shrank to pinpoints and her expression communicated that her heart had just been shattered into a million pieces. Tears of despair burst forth from Fluttershy as a steel cage sprang into being around her and her friends.

Back in the present, Discord muttered, “I’ll spend the rest of eternity trying to make up for that moment.” Louder, he said to Fluttershy as she unfastened her seat belt, “I don’t see any clubhouse. All I see is a fence and a forest behind it.”

Pinkie bounded out of her car and knocked on Discord’s window. Her voice was slightly muffled by the glass as she said, “I used to be a Nature Explorer with Fluttershy, until I learned you could only get one merit badge in baking! So follow her. We have to squeeze through the gap in the fence and find the path.” She shone a powerful flashlight up and down the roadside.

“‘Nature Explorer’, eh?” Discord opened his door and exited the van.

Fluttershy brushed her hair out of her face. She said timidly, “My parents thought it would be a good way for me to meet other children. I haven’t been very active lately, but I stuck with it because of the opportunities to help animals and people.”

“So, what merit badges did you earn?” teased Discord, adding a wink.

Enthusiasm returned to Fluttershy’s teal eyes. She activated her flashlight and said, “This will surprise you, but I became very good at archery.”

Pinkie’s shout interrupted their conversation. “I’ve found something suspicious! Get over here!”

Discord snapped his fingers and changed his clothing completely. His suit was replaced by a khaki jumpsuit, complete with an embroidered nametag and black steel-toed work boots. On his back, a black machine illuminated by blue lights made a high-pitched whine. A futuristic rifle was attached to the machine, safely stowed as part of an integrated backpack. He held a strange sensor in his right hand. The top of the device had several blinking orange lights embedded in a pair of antennae.

Fluttershy stayed close to Discord but carefully swept her flashlight in an expanding square centered on Pinkie. “I see what she’s talking about. Look,” she pointed, “there’s the print of a pair of women’s hiking boots.”

The antennae on Discord’s device perked up a bit, and the orange lights blinked more rapidly. “I have a bad feeling about who was wearing those boots, Fluttershy,” he said soberly.

“I can see one set of smaller boots and two sets of smaller athletic shoes coming from the break in the fence,” said Fluttershy, shining her light at the battered chain-link barrier.

Pinkie inhaled and complained as she squeezed through the break in the fence, “It’s times like this where I think I should eat fewer cupcakes.” Discord and Fluttershy followed with only a little less difficulty.

They quickly followed the path. The trail of footprints became muddled because of the numerous trips that the Crusaders had made to ferry supplies from the roadside to their construction site. They didn’t hear any wildlife as they traversed the distance to the clubhouse.

Fluttershy frowned and said softly, “It’s too quiet. This is a very active habitat, even at night. Something has spooked the animals very badly.”

“I think I know what that thing might be,” said Discord. As they broke into the clearing, the meter in his hand made a high pitched sound and the orange lights danced wildly. He frowned and willed his clothing to change into a simple flannel shirt and jeans. He kept the safety boots from his previous outfit.

Eerie shadows danced with pale white light inside the Crusaders’ clubhouse. Pinkie led the way inside, and she found a lighted flashlight that flickered because of its dying power supply. The trio examined the detritus spread out before them.

“Looks like the maid service is on vacation,” said Pinkie, who forced optimism into her voice. She crouched down and picked up the plastic container that was filled to the brim with leftovers from Sweet Apple Acres. “And, they left before they had a chance to eat dinner, too. That’s not good! Their teenage tummies are probably growling.”

Fluttershy looked up at Discord and frowned. She pressed her lips together and said gravely, “They just dropped everything and left immediately. What could have happened, Discord?”

“She took them, Fluttershy,” said Discord sadly. His red eyes suddenly glowed ominously in the darkness and he punched his palm with his fist. “Damn you, Cassiopeia!” he swore angrily.

Pinkie stood on her tiptoes and tapped the center of Discord’s forehead with a pink-tinted index finger several times. “What’s going on in there? Who’s this Cassie-Peon person? Why are you so angry all of a sudden?”

The threatening light in the Spirit of Chaos’ eyes dimmed, and then winked out. His brow was still furrowed with anger as he explained, “Sunset remained silent, partly on my recommendation, because she was worried about scaring you. I see now that I made a mistake in guiding her in this direction. Your teacher, Ms. Raven, is actually a banshee named Shrieking Raven.”

“You mean that Ms. Raven is like a vampire or a ghoul or something like that? I hate it when Rainbow Dash forces us to watch those movies during sleepovers,” said Fluttershy, shivering from much more than just the evening’s chill.

Discord nodded. His face was uncharacteristically creased with worry as he said, “She has been undead for many centuries, but began her life as a unicorn in Equestria. Cassiopeia was the name Shrieking Raven’s parents gave her, but she rejected it long ago. We had a relationship of sorts several centuries ago.” Fluttershy crossed her arms, and raised her eyebrow at him. Discord added, “We did not part on good terms. This is exactly the sort of evil act she enjoys.”

“So, let me get this straight, Raven has kidnapped Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle?” asked Fluttershy, her eyes wide with fear.

Discord nodded. “Yes, and I’m sure that she’s manipulated Adagio into helping her. What Curly-Locks obviously hasn’t figured out is that the banshee only helps herself and her master. The time for talking is nearly past. I now see almost no way we can avoid a fight.”

“Well, then what are we waiting for?” Pinkie shouldered Sweetie Belle’s heavy pack. Her blue eyes glimmered with excitement. “Let’s throw as much of this stuff as we can carry into the cars and get over to Rarity’s! We have so much time and so little to do!”

Discord bent down to grab the toolbox and Apple Bloom’s supplies. When he straightened up, he smiled and a brown top hat appeared on his head. He wryly said, “Pinkie, strike that. Reverse it. So much to do and so little time.”

Fluttershy shook her head in exasperation. “Let’s just get to the boutique. But first, I need to stop at the cottage and pick up my bow and quiver. Discord, you can tell me all about Raven over a cup of hot cocoa, once we get to Rarity’s.”

Applejack accelerated as her family’s old pickup left the Canterlot city limits. Rarity held on for dear life on the bench seat as she bounced along, pinched between Rainbow Dash, Applejack and the gear shift.

“So, why did we go all the way through the city to come out here, just to turn around and go back to Rarity’s place?” asked Rainbow Dash suspiciously. “It’s awfully late at night for all this driving around.”

Applejack arched an eyebrow in annoyance and replied, “First, I really want my own pillow tonight. But the important part is that from everything Sunset has Aria texting us, we need to fetch weapons and supplies.”

“Darling, I’m glad that you saw reason, and didn’t put up a fight about gathering our group at the boutique,” said Rarity gratefully. She observed Applejack’s green eyes narrow slightly.

The farmgirl shrugged her shoulders, and guided the truck around a curve along the dark road. “It seems a little like lying, but if ever there was a situation to bend the truth, this is it. By the time the hands realize there are no Apples at Sweet Apple Acres, we’ll be long gone.”

Rainbow Dash smiled mischievously. “And, we know from last spring’s cider incident that Elegant can keep her mouth shut!”

“The basement bathroom will never be the same after that unfortunate event,” growled Rarity. She turned to Applejack and asked, “You’re not worried that one of the hands will call Granny Smith?”

Applejack turned on to Sweet Apple Acres’ long, gravel driveway. Exasperation entered her voice as she said, “Of course they’ll call Granny, and she’ll rush back from Appleoosa. But, all we really need is just a few hours to get away.”

“I think Cheerilee and Big Mac will be able to talk her down. We’ll be fine as long as she doesn’t call the police before we get to the lake. The ‘damsel in distress’ routine might work to get us out of a speeding ticket, but not for six missing teenagers,” said Rainbow Dash. She smirked and elbowed Rarity in her ribs.

Rarity sniffed and crossed her arms as they rumbled towards the farmhouse and barns. “Hmph! Lieutenant Shining Armor thoroughly understood my dilemma, and let me go with a warning. He was quite handsome, too, which always helps the quality of my performance.”

“Just don’t double the speed limit next time, okay? I don’t need any more run-ins with the cops since the skateboarding accident,” said Rainbow Dash. She leaned over Rarity and said to Applejack, “Don’t forget about Father Scorpan. He said he’d cover for us.”

Rolling her eyes, Applejack said, “He said he’d help us. He didn’t say he’d lie for us. But, if he can’t stop Granny from flying off the handle, nobody can.” Her voice grew angry. “What in tarnation is that doing here?”

The truck pulled up next to the equipment barn and parked next to Rarity’s spotless, white convertible. Sunset’s backpack rested against the rear left tire.

Rainbow Dash sarcastically broke the silence as she jumped out of the truck. “So, one more time, why did we go all the way through the city to come out here, just to turn around and go back to Rarity’s place?”

“My home has no adult supervision until Elegant arrives to open the store. Here, we might not be discovered tonight, but we’d never make a stealthy escape from Sweet Apple Acres tomorrow morning, because all of the employees arrive near sunrise!” answered Rarity as she slid across the bench seat.

Applejack continued to clench the steering wheel and gritted her teeth. “I’m not happy that Sunset brought Sonata here.”

“Darling, we’ve been over all this at the hospital. Look, the house is dark. They went straight to the smithy. Sunset has to balance your anger with necessity. All of her magic supplies are here!”

Opening the door, Rainbow Dash grasped Applejack’s arm. The farmgirl’s powerful muscles coiled in submerged anger. “Listen, AJ. Let’s get our weapons, your pillow, and any other stuff we need. Then we’ll have time for an awkward reunion,” she said convincingly.

Applejack’s smile illuminated her green eyes. She said to Rainbow Dash, “You’re right, this time. Just don’t make a habit of it, because I couldn’t stand you being any cockier! Let’s go into the barn and see what we can find.”

Rarity wrinkled her nose at the mingled smells of manure, livestock, oil and gasoline. “And please hurry, darling. While Sweet Apple Acres is quite, um, vintage, the ambient aroma is a taste I have failed to acquire.”

The three girls split up in the equipment barn. Rainbow Dash went straight to where her makeshift quarterstaff was stowed from her sparring session with Aria the previous night. Applejack approached a large pegboard where dozens of sharp harvesting implements were safely hung. Rarity remained in the entrance with her arms folded and a frown slowly spreading across her face.

After a minute or so, Rainbow Dash emerged from behind a tractor, absently twirling her staff in one hand and holding a handaxe in the other. She said, “I’m all set, and I even found Pinkie’s hatchet!”

Applejack removed a seven-foot-long scythe from the pegboard and gave it a couple of test swings. The two-foot-long steel blade cut viciously through the air.

“Oh my gosh, please pick that, Applejack!” squealed Rainbow Dash excitedly. “With your hair, you’d look just like that vampire-killing girl!”

The farmgirl flipped her ponytail back over her shoulder, frowned in frustration and put the scythe back in its place. “Nope. The balance is off, and I have no control. I’d knock myself over trying to use that thing. Besides, it’s a little too lethal for my taste.” As she selected a steel sickle, whose blade was a little more than a foot in length, Applejack smiled and said, “Now with this, I can put a hurting on anyone that gets too close.”

A female voice admiringly said, “Good choice.”

Aria stepped into the equipment barn, entering on the side closest to the smithy. She unzipped her gym bag and removed Chainbreaker. Her purple eyes flashing, she brought the glowing mace up to a guard position, and added, “You’re wise to know what you can handle and what you can’t.”

Sunset and Sonata followed Aria into the barn. Sonata flinched and moved to hide behind Sunset, who was wearing Discord’s enormous backpack. Composing herself, Sonata stepped into the open with her hands clasped over her stomach. A rectangular piece of white gauze covered her left temple.

Her mouth dropping open from surprise, Rarity pointed at Sunset and asked, “Why are you wearing the necklace?”

“I’ll explain everything at the boutique, Rarity,” she replied. Her green-blue eyes glimmering with determination, Sunset strode across the barn. She met Applejack’s gaze and evenly said, “I’m sorry. I know you didn’t want Sonata to come to Sweet Apple Acres. I should have asked you before we stopped by.”

Glancing momentarily at Sonata, who nervously shifted her weight from one foot to another, Applejack pointedly said to Sunset, “You don’t need to apologize for a thing, sugar cube. I’m glad you let us know that the girls really are missing, and not just horsing around. We’re here doing the same thing – gearing up. I know we’ll all need your magic supplies to get Apple Bloom back.”

“I’ll take full responsibility for Sonata’s presence here. Just give us a couple more—"

Sonata stepped forward and interrupted. “No, Sunset.”

Sunset’s eyes nervously darted from Sonata to Applejack. “You don’t need to do this right now, Sonata.”

Aria lowered Chainbreaker and walked back towards Sonata. She cautiously said, “Sonata, I think later would be better.”

“After I was shown all the terrible things that could have happened right here at Sweet Apple Acres, you both dare to tell me what I need to do or not?!” Sonata said angrily.

Applejack icily replied, “The terrible things that would have happened to me, my family and my friends?”

“There’s no excuse for my behavior, Applejack. I see that now. While you helped free me from my hunger for negative emotions, old habits die hard. I was good at making people want things, and I wanted you all to accept me,” said Sonata earnestly.

Her anger starting to bubble up once more, Applejack raised her voice. “We did accept you! You were a great help at the farm and I enjoyed having you here! Apple Bloom thought you were the best thing since cobbler. And then, all of a sudden, you broke that trust, and that’s mighty hard for me to get over.” She stomped her foot and gestured angrily with the sickle.

Sonata looked down at the barn’s floor, then raised her head, and met the farmgirl’s angry stare. She said, “We are both stubborn, so I hope you understand. I wanted you to accept me, but only on my terms, which I now know is wrong. I held on to my scheme to hurt Adagio, and it screwed up everything,” Her voice undertook a passionate crescendo, and she clenched her fists. “I am furious at myself that I didn’t listen to advice. All of you told me in your own way, but I ignored it all and hurt your brother. By the Maelstrom, I needed magic to finally show me how my selfish hopes would turn into something horrible!”

The outburst eased the tension in Applejack’s eyes. She folded her arms and gestured with her chin. “Go on.”

Sonata’s arms spread wide, and her apology spilled forth in a torrent of words. “I can’t properly express how sorry I am for all that I’ve done to you and your family. I betrayed your trust, again and again. I took advantage of your hospitality and generosity by mistaking your love for one another as weakness. I nearly succeeded in seducing your brother, and did succeed in getting him badly hurt while trying to seek my own greedy revenge. Worst of all, I’m sorry for causing a distraction that made it possible for…” she stopped herself, and looked at Sunset. “It’s not my place to tell you the last part, Applejack. The only way I can think of to make it up to you and your family is to work here, for free, for at least as long as it takes Big Mac to heal.”

“I’m still upset at you, Sonata,” said Applejack. Her grip tightened on the sickle’s handle. “I’ll be blunt with you. Part of me still wants to beat you to a pulp for what you’ve done.” She looked at Rarity. “But, thanks to some things that Rarity and my brother said, I’m nearly calm enough that I know that we can talk more about all of this, especially about whether I’d let you come here to work. But that has to wait until Apple Bloom is safely back with us.”

Aria interjected. “Did Rarity tell you about Sonata’s vision, Applejack?”

“Yes, I did, Aria,” said Rarity, attempting to jump into the conversation.

Applejack adjusted her hat and tweaked the brim. She walked up to Sonata and angrily jabbed an orange-tinted finger into her chest. To her credit, she stood her ground as Applejack growled, “Rarity told me every word they heard from you, which is exactly why I’m not kicking your behind right now.”

Rainbow Dash and Rarity exchanged worried looks. They both took a step forward to intervene, but stopped when they saw Sunset serenely raise a hand, palm outward.

“Can I tell you something about what I saw, Applejack?” said Sonata as she stared into the angry green eyes.

Applejack withdrew her finger and tossed aside the sickle. She crossed her arms and said simply, “Shoot.”

“I thought I could make you and your family happier. What I would have done would have destroyed everything that’s wonderful about you… the honesty, the pride in hard work... And most of all, I would have ruined your family by being part of it. My gifts, just like my old Master’s, would have been pure poison. "So" —Sonata extended her hand to Applejack— "here's my promise to make amends in the future, once you’ve saved your sister and the other girls. I’ll just need your advice to make sure my ‘help’ doesn’t cause any more pain.”

Applejack took the blue-tinted hand and shook it once. She muttered, “I’m not saying ‘yes’, but I’m not saying ‘no’, either. We’ll discuss this again later, Sonata. I need to get my pillow, and a couple more things,” she said. As she left the barn, her right hand went to her eyes.

“What just happened?” asked Rainbow Dash. She scratched her head and gave Sunset a quizzical look.

Sunset smiled confidently. “A big step forward happened.” She walked up behind Sonata, squeezed her shoulder, and said, “Even though I would have preferred a different time for you to have that conversation with Applejack, I’m proud of you. I know that wasn’t easy.”

Sonata put her blue-tinted hand over Sunset’s and gave it a squeeze. Her lilac eyes looked back admiringly at Sunset.

“So, what weapon are you bringing, Rarity?” said Sunset impatiently, stepping away from Sonata.

The fashion designer flipped her purple hair and stepped back towards the gravel driveway. She waved a perfectly-manicured hand dismissively, and said, “Oh, there’s nothing here that works for me. I’ll just remove the safety tip from my rapier when we get back to my home.”

Aria snorted derisively. “A piercing weapon? No way. I’m sure you’re quite a sight at a fencing tournament, but you’re thinking style over substance. A rapier would stop a living opponent by causing pain or impaling vital organs. Our likely enemies are already dead.”

“What?!” shouted Rainbow Dash incredulously.

Sunset rolled her eyes, “I thought we agreed that I would tell everyone about this when we were together, Aria!”

Aria absently twirled Chainbreaker. “I couldn’t let Rarity make a big mistake!” She stopped practicing with the magical mace, and rummaged through her gym bag. “Here, take the club I found.”

Rarity accepted the eighteen-inch-long piece of brass, and tested the weight in her hands. “This looks like a belaying pin from a sailing ship! Where did you get this?” The length of brass had a wooden handle with an intricately knotted grip made of twine.

“Let’s just say that defending Sonata’s honor from the sailors in Baltimare took some extra precautions,” said Aria, who gave Rarity an unnerving wink. “Let me teach you a thing or two, Rarity. First, don’t stand with your feet together. You need to build a good base….”

Rainbow Dash nervously chuckled and approached Sunset while Aria taught Rarity the basics of swinging a heavy club. Sunset shook her head and said, “You weren’t supposed to know until later that we’re probably going to be living through one of your horror movies tomorrow night.”

“Well, now I can watch everyone else be all freaked out, while I stay awesome and cool,” said Rainbow Dash. She tapped her quarterstaff nervously on the barn’s concrete floor. “Nice necklace, by the way.”

Sunset’s hands glowed brightly with eldritch energy. She used telekinesis to take the staff and handaxe away from Rainbow Dash, and gently set them in the truck’s bed. “I’m getting much better at using the magic that it unlocked. But there’s more.”

Rainbow Dash stifled a laugh as Aria delivered a particularly personal insult to Rarity in an effort to motivate her to swing the club harder. Aria jumped back as Rarity’s next attack nearly struck her.

Returning her attention to Sunset, Rainbow Dash implored, “Come on! Spill the beans!”

Sunset used her magic to levitate Discord’s backpack over to the truck. She smiled mischievously and shook her head. “Not this time! I’ll wait for everyone to be together for this one, but just know that Twilight and I had a great chat.”

“Fine, I’ll wait, I guess,” said Rainbow Dash, slumping her shoulders in resignation.

Aria hauled Rarity to her feet and said, “I know you have better balance than that!”

“Let’s see you spar in heels and a skirt next time!” retorted Rarity, her blue eyes flashing angrily.

The whole group heard the front door of the farmhouse slam shut. Applejack, carrying her pillow and lariat, jogged briskly towards the truck. The backpack weighing her down was filled to bursting.

Sunset stepped between the two combatants, ending the brief sparring session. "Alright, that's enough of that. Everyone, let's pack up and get out of here!" As the others moved to gather their gear, Sunset glanced at Rarity and teasingly added, “I like your new look, Rarity, it really speaks to me: it says 'I need a shower and I'm angry with Aria!'”

“I’m ready! Let’s go, girls!” Applejack tossed her sickle, along with all the other items she carried, into the truck’s bed.

As the others loaded their bags, Rainbow Dash yelled, “Shotgun!” She slid into the truck’s passenger seat and slammed the door shut.

Brushing the dirt off of her arms, Rarity held out her hand expectantly. Sunset laughed and placed the keys to the convertible in her palm. Aria and Sonata followed them to the white car. The Sirens squeezed into the back seat, and Sunset yielded the driver’s seat to Rarity.

As the fashion designer started the car and adjusted the seat to match her height, Sonata timidly asked, “Rarity, can we stop by Taco Chime? I haven’t eaten since breakfast.”

Sunset, Rarity and Aria erupted with badly-needed laughter. Aria reached over and patted Sonata’s knee. “No matter what happens tomorrow, please don’t lose your sense of humor, Nata!”

“It’s unlike Elegant to leave the lights on by accident,” said Rarity as she tried to peer through the closed blinds of the Carousel Boutique. “I just hope there’s not a problem.” She unlocked the door and let the group inside.

Rainbow Dash entered the clothing store first and laughed loudly. “There’s a problem, all right!”

“Surprise!” announced Discord, his mouth full of food.

He, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy sat at Rarity’s sewing table sharing an enormous portion of fried rice and spring rolls. Each of them had a steaming cup of cocoa in front of them, and a small sheet cake sat off to the side. The first floor of the boutique reeked of soy sauce.

Rarity rushed forward, her horrified gesture encompassing the “borrowed” plates, dirty silverware, rearranged table and spilled food. “My inspiration space! It’s ruined!”

“Don’t worry, Rarity. I’ve already spoken to Discord. He’s convinced me that cleanup will be a snap,” said Fluttershy soothingly.

The Spirit of Chaos winked at Rarity and transformed his mismatched suit into a butler’s tuxedo. “I certainly wasn’t going to sit in the van and wait, Rarity. The food was getting cold! If you didn’t want visitors, you’d have a better lock. May I get you anything?” He offered her a dainty teacup, its contents steaming.

Rarity accepted the teacup, then shook her head in frustration as the others filed into the boutique, heavily laden with supplies. “I’ve lost all control, it seems,” she moaned.

“Just remember, they’re good houseguests and will have this cleaned up before the shop opens tomorrow,” said Sunset, who smiled and briefly rubbed both of Rarity’s tense shoulders. She shouted to everyone, “It’s time for all hands on deck! Let’s get to work!” She returned outside to Applejack’s truck for another load of equipment.

Aria had moved two clothing racks to the side, cleared a large area in the center of the floor and guided each young woman to place equipment neatly in an assigned place.

Pinkie’s indomitable effervescence was on full display. She asked, “Rarity, don’t you like the cake? It’s in your favorite colors!”

The dessert was iced in white and purple, with sugary blue diamonds adorning each corner in rich frosting. The writing said, “Thank you for letting us conquer your store!” The “i” in “letting” was dotted with a tiny balloon.

Rarity massaged her temples, closed her eyes and groaned. “Pinkie, I have nothing to say to you right now. I need to get my things from upstairs to placate Aria’s martial tendencies.” She jogged up the staircase.

Struggling under the weight of Discord’s enormous backpack, Sunset re-entered the boutique and pointed at the trio still seated at the sewing table. “I said ‘all hands on deck!’ Break time is over. You three chow hounds need to help unload the truck. When we’re done, move it and the van around to the storeroom door out back.”

Discord wiped his face with a napkin and transformed his clothing into a diagonally-striped golf shirt and garish plaid pants. The butterfly pin flew around his head and landed above the shirt’s breast pocket. Discord approached Sunset, tapped his throat and said, “I see you’re wearing the amulet openly now. That’s the sort of significant detail I have made a habit of noticing.”

“Aren’t you supposed to be helping unload the truck?” asked Sunset, raising her eyebrow as she scratched her neck underneath the Element of Harmony. Her expression softened as she explained, “Twilight and I traded several messages a little while ago. Under the circumstances, I think it’s only right.”

As the others continued to stack supplies on the boutique’s floor, the Spirit of Chaos clapped his hands together and gleefully said, “Oh goody! A surprise! I love surprises!”

“You’re going to have to wait until everyone else hears it, Discord,” Sunset said playfully. Her hands glowing with aquatic luminescence, she telekinetically pushed the Spirit of Chaos towards the front door and added, “Now, quit stalling and help us out!”

Sunset walked towards one of the clothing racks that Aria had moved. She removed a hanger holding a short-sleeved, light turquoise blouse adorned with a gold-tinted, transparent silk fringe. Sunset laid the unassuming, yet attractive garment on the cashier’s table and admired it.

Rarity bounded down the stairs, holding a small bundle. She set it on the floor with her metal club, then noticed Sunset looking at the blouse and glided towards her. In her best saleswoman voice, Rarity said, “Darling, that would look fabulous on you, and would set off your eyes beautifully. A set of leggings in a somewhat darker shade of blue would complete the outfit, and we must certainly talk about makeup—”

“Maybe we can plan my summer wardrobe later, Rarity,” interrupted Sunset. She gave Rarity a strained smile and looked deep into her blue eyes. “We have to worry about Sweetie Belle first.”

Rarity looked down and wiped the corner of her eye. She sniffed and said, “I know, Sunset. Despite the chaos and my complaints, there’s no way I could have dealt with the silence here tonight. I can’t bear to think about what that quiet could mean.”

With two fingertips, Sunset gently lifted Rarity’s face and met her eyes. She said reassuringly, “We’ll find her, Rarity. I’ll put it together for everyone once we’re done taking inventory and get some food.”

On the other side of the room, Aria left her post as the group entered with another load of gear. She offered the handaxe to Pinkie. “I found something I think you’re going to need.”

“Oh, you shouldn’t have!” After placing the items she carried, Pinkie took the hatchet and contorted her cheerful face into a fierce snarl. “You took the cake, so I’ll take your life!” In her unbound enthusiasm, she prepared to charge across the boutique.

Aria gave Pinkie a small smile and gripped both her shoulders before she could pounce. “Soon, you’ll have a story your grandfather would be proud of, Pinkamena. But, don’t go berserk now. Rarity would never forgive us for destroying the shop for fun.”

Fluttershy and Applejack entered the boutique from the back hallway that led to the storeroom. Fluttershy softly declared, “The van and the truck are parked out back.”

Rainbow Dash nodded at Fluttershy, then shouted, “Okay, I think all of the stuff is inside the shop! It’s time to eat.” She rubbed her stomach, and started for the stairs.

“I have a midnight meal for all of us,” offered Sonata, holding out a cardboard box filled with wrapped tacos, tortilla chips and various salsas. When she spoke, everyone fell silent, and her eyes darted nervously around the room.

Sunset stepped to the center of the boutique and grinned. “Thanks, Sonata. Get some food, everyone. Sonata, Aria and I have finally figured out Adagio’s plan. But, this is news for a full stomach.”

“Carry the food upstairs to the den, and make sure you have plenty of napkins!” ordered Rarity, who led the way. “Applejack, could you and Rainbow Dash help me find some additional chairs?”

The farmgirl’s rapidly receding voice enthusiastically answered, “You bet! Come on, Dash.”

The boutique emptied as the crowd ascended the stairs. Looking dejectedly down into the box of tacos, Sonata remained still, and didn’t make a move to join the rest of the group.

Discord, who was the last one remaining on the first floor, set the container of fried rice on the bottom step and approached Sonata. As he approached, he realized that she was crying again. With a flash of white light and a flick of his wrist, he made a handkerchief with a butterfly embroidered on it appear in his hand. He took the box of tacos out of Sonata’s arms, trading it for the handkerchief. Sonata buried her face in the beautifully embroidered piece of silk.

Sympathetically, Discord said, “It takes time, you know. If you stay true, they will come around. There will be good days, and there will be bad days. Just don’t hurt the ones you care about during one of the bad days.”

Sonata lowered the handkerchief, and lifted her tear-streaked face. “Discord, I’m so afraid of letting everyone down again!”

The Spirit of Chaos nodded at the box of tacos, which promptly grew wings and flew upstairs. He looked back and forth and said, “Here’s a little secret: I’m scared about disappointing my friends, too. If I didn’t tell you before, I’ll tell you now: I’m on a very stern form of probation.” The corners of his mouth rose, and continued sympathetically. “Sonata, battles are even more unpredictable than I am. But, if we do nothing, then Raven or Adagio, or even both, will win. What would you say if there were already tens of thousands of beings that admired your courage?”

“I’d say you were lying, Discord,” said Sonata. Her bruised, bandaged face was awash in confusion.

He raised an eyebrow and said, “I’m not lying, but I won’t tell you everything either. Courage takes many forms, Sonata. You could have easily hidden in Sunset’s apartment, but instead, you came here, with full knowledge of the risks. That doesn’t seem cowardly to me, but who am I?”

The tears dried from Sonata’s lilac eyes, and she was about to reply when Rainbow Dash’s voice called from upstairs. “Hey, what’s going on down there? We’re ready for the food!”

“Thanks, Discord. I…” Sonata’s voice trailed off.

“You’re welcome, but we can’t keep them waiting any longer. I don’t want to learn the sort of violence that Rainbow Dash is capable of when confronted with an empty stomach!” Discord said, grabbing the container of fried rice and locking the boutique’s front door. He smiled and followed Sonata up the stairs to Rarity’s living area.

Sunset wiped the frosting from her mouth with a napkin and took a long drink of coffee. She looked at the assembled group and asked, “Has everyone gotten enough to eat? It’s time to lay it all out there.”

Applejack tossed her hat on the coffee table and patted her stomach. She said, “I’m stuffed! Who would have thought that we’d have such a great midnight smorgasbord?”

Aria smiled and said, “No more for me. I’m glad that Sonata suggested we stop, so we didn’t eat Rarity out of house and home.”

“Wait, one second!” Pinkie Pie shoveled an enormous bite of cake into her mouth, and then set her plate on the tray in her lap.

Sonata leaned forward and asked, “How are they doing at the hospital?”

Smiling confidently, Rainbow Dash stuffed her mobile phone in her pocket and said, “They’re doing as well as I think they can. Cheerilee just texted me and let me know that she’s going to crash for a little while.”

“It’s time for you to keep your promise, Discord,” said Fluttershy expectantly.

The Spirit of Chaos winked at Fluttershy, furrowed his brow in concentration and snapped his fingers. All of the dirty dishes and leftovers disappeared in a flash of white light. Down the hall, the group heard a single piece of silverware clatter to the kitchen floor.

Discord shrugged his shoulders and said, “Well, that was almost perfect. See, Rarity, I told you that cleanup would be a snap!” He wiped sweat from his forehead and breathed heavily from the magical exertion.

“Thank you, I think. If I find rice all over my kitchen, you may return to Equestria without some vital body parts,” said Rarity. Sitting in her easy chair, she crossed her arms over her chest and narrowed her eyes.

“I’m sure that your kitchen will be perfectly fine, Rarity,” said Sunset. She stood and took command of the room, blocking the dark flat-screen television. After briefly fidgeting with the amulet at her throat, she continued. “What I have to say will be very grim, but I’m glad to be here with my friends tonight.”

Applejack gestured to Sunset with an open hand. She took a deep breath and said, “I’m glad that you’re here, too. All of us are.”

“Thank you, Applejack, I appreciate that,” said Sunset, who spread her arms wide apologetically. “Let me begin by telling you something I should have passed along as soon as Discord told me. I’ve learned about the source of the dark magic I felt at the aquarium. Our teacher, Ms. Raven, is actually an undead monster. She’s a banshee named Shrieking Raven who is working with Adagio.”

Rarity’s eyes dilated and she nearly fell out of the easy chair before recovering her senses. She placed an alabaster hand against her chest, which heaved up and down because of her rapid breathing. Pinkie moved to catch Rarity in case she tumbled to the floor. The others had less dramatic reactions, ranging from Aria’s determined frown to Rainbow Dash’s profane outburst. Sunset gestured for Discord to speak.

The Spirit of Chaos cleared his throat. Omitting his customary theatrics, he said, “For everyone’s edification, Shrieking Raven was once a brilliantly intelligent, but hopelessly vain unicorn named Cassiopeia. When I ruled Equestria, I was impressed by her ruthless efficiency, and as such, I overlooked just how deep her selfish ambition ran. As Emperor, I appointed her as my Viceroy, and permitted her direct control over much of what is now Eastern Equestria.”

“It seems like she can handle much more than just deathly boring literature classes then, right?” asked Applejack. She clasped her hands tightly, and her orange-tinted skin was pale.

Discord nodded. “Indeed, Applejack. Shortly before I was turned to stone, she tried to convince me to set up a co-rulership. Ironically, that’s what Princesses Celestia and Luna did after they defeated me, but that’s a topic for a less desperate time.” He nodded at Applejack’s hat on the coffee table and a tiny white alicorn chased a diminutive dark blue alicorn around the Stetson’s brim, like orbiting moons.

“So, how did you two end up wanting to kill each other?” asked Rainbow Dash attentively, as she rubbed her hands together.

He frowned, and his eyes flashed angrily. “I learned that Raven had betrayed me. She had always been in service to Vecna, the one-eyed, one-handed Lord of the Dead. Vecna promised Cassiopeia eternal youth and beauty in return for bringing his dark religion to Equestria. She mistakenly thought that my chaotic dictatorship and her dark Lord would be a splendid alliance, but as I said at last night’s dinner, chaos is a part of life.”

Fluttershy reached forward, and briefly placed a hand on his arm. She looked up, with wide teal eyes, and softly said, “I loved that speech, Discord. Thank you for helping us understand your point of view.”

“Thank you, dear Fluttershy.” Discord resumed, his voice steady and serious. “As such, I abhor Vecna and all his works. Raven had herself transformed into a banshee, and became a horrific undead monster whose voice has terrible power. I cast her out and forbade the worship of Vecna throughout Equestria. Now she’s revealed herself here. Whatever she has planned with Adagio will certainly involve death and dark magic.”

Aria shook her head in disbelief and rocked back in her chair. She toyed with the ends of her pigtails and said, “We heard a little bit about Vecna in Aquastria, so I can guess the danger Raven represents.”

Having recovered from her initial shock, Rarity took a sip of tea. “Darling, it sounds like Ms. Raven may still desire your heart.”

Discord snorted and rolled his red eyes. He drew a large “X” on his coat with his fingers. “Oh, Raven wants my heart all right, Rarity. She wants it removed from my chest, served on a silver platter and garnished with parsley.”

“Yuck!” shouted Pinkie Pie. Her face twisted in disgust and she stuck her tongue out.

Sunset stood again and held up both her hands, palms out, to quiet the group. She said, “Thank you, Discord. So, I’ll say it as plain as day, now that we know more about our former teacher: Raven has allied with Adagio, and she kidnapped Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle earlier tonight.”

Applejack was the first to recover from the group’s stunned silence. She clenched her fists and angrily said, “My sister, in the hands of a dead thing! Let’s go, now!”

Rarity added to the din by furiously shouting, “Don’t forget the manipulative monster with that snakelike tangle of orange hair! We must rescue Sweetie Belle!”

Tipping over her empty tray, Rainbow Dash stood and began to leave the room. She angrily postured. “If they harm one hair on Scootaloo’s head, I’ll—”

“Stop!” Aria cried angrily. She leapt to her feet and made a violent horizontal motion with both arms. “Sit down and shut up! I’m sorry, but that’s about the nicest thing I can say right now. You don’t even know where we’re going, and there’s much more that you need to hear.”

Pinkie gazed at Aria grimly, then said, “I read the book, so I have an awful guess, but the others need to hear from you what Adagio is going to try to do.”

“Please go ahead, Aria,” encouraged Sunset.

Sonata nodded her agreement. “It’s time we told them everything, Ari.”

Aria surveyed the group with her keen purple eyes. She took a deep breath and began. “I trust that you all remember that Sonata, Adagio and I were changed into Sirens by He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness.”

“Yeah, you got all shape-shifted more than a thousand years ago, and you caused all sorts of problems until last week. Twilight told us the basics, and you and Sonata filled in some of the holes,” said Rainbow Dash impatiently.

Tapping her index finger on her own chest, Aria gritted her teeth, then said, “From my point of view, here are the essential pieces of information.” She held up her index finger. “One: Adagio’s mother, Blinding Dazzle, was the last queen of the Aquastrian Empire. She ruled according to Leviathan’s laws, which encouraged slavery, murder, deception, and a separation of the genders.”

“A brutal society where females were considered superior, correct?” asked Rarity.

Aria nodded gravely, and presented a second finger. “Two: We weren’t just changed into Sirens on a whim. We were sacrifices. Our mothers offered us to He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness for various reasons. I’m convinced my mother was bullied into sacrificing me by the Queen herself after Her Majesty heard me singing in my mother’s barracks room.”

Gasping loudly, Pinkie Pie asked, “Your own mother gave you to Big, Bad and Slimy? How could she do that?”

Shaking her pigtails from side to side, Aria gave both Pinkie and Sonata a small, sad smile. “Unfortunately, I’ll never know for sure, but take my word that the Queen could be very convincing as she served Leviathan. He required a sacrifice of three merfillies every so often, so it was unexpected that we were transformed into magical servants, instead of simply passing through the Trench Gate never to be seen again.”

“So, Princess Adagio has been forcing others to do what she tells them to for her entire life, right? What does this sacrifice mean for Apple Bloom and the others?” said Applejack. She hugged her pillow to her chest, but Aria could see that her hands were shaking violently.

Rarity leaned over and gave both of Applejack’s hands a squeeze. She calmly said, “Darling, I’m terrified, too. It’s all right to admit it, but we must let Aria finish.” Applejack silently nodded.

“Thank you, Rarity,” said Aria. She squeezed her purple eyes shut for a moment, and then opened them after she composed herself. “So, here’s the third and final point: Tomorrow night, in a last-ditch effort to return to Aquastria to rule, Adagio means to wake my former Master. She will crown herself as Queen, and have her magic restored. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom will feed He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness’ terrible powers as sacrifices. They will almost certainly be murdered.”

The room erupted in a second round of bedlam. Applejack and Rarity disintegrated into tears. Pinkie, Sonata, and Fluttershy all barely prevented Rainbow Dash from sprinting downstairs and out into the night. Discord shrugged his shoulders and suddenly held a sign that said “What did you expect, Baconhair?” Aria made eye contact with Sunset and tapped the spot where her heart-pendant once hung.

Sunset nodded. In a burst of green-blue light, she shouted, “Quiet!” Her magically amplified voice gained immediate compliance. The amulet continued to glow as she pointed at the couch, Rarity’s easy chair and the love seat, and the trio of chairs moved into the den from Rarity’s bedroom. “We aren’t finished yet. Neither are Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. That’s all for the bad news. Now, I will tell you about our plan to save them.”

“I knew that little trinket would come in handy, Sunset,” teased Discord as the young women returned to their seats.

Sunset glared at Discord and said threateningly, “I didn’t see you do anything to calm them down!”

“Old habits die hard, and I had ringside seats to some particularly excellent chaos!” said Discord, smiling sarcastically.

With the entire group listening attentively once again, Sunset said, “So, Aria has learned that this sacrifice will happen at Lake Piebald tomorrow night.”

“Um, if you don’t mind, could you tell us how did you found out?” Fluttershy asked Aria.

Aria pulled out the prepaid mobile phone, and declared, “Adagio texted me and told me to arrive at the Park Headquarters before eleven tomorrow night.”

Checking her watch, Rarity said, “Make that tonight, darling. It’s well past midnight.”

“So, I still haven’t heard a good reason why we’re not packing up our stuff and getting on the road now!” said Rainbow Dash argumentatively, rubbing her elbow where she had smacked it against the wall during her escape attempt.

Sunset sternly replied, “We’re not going now because we have no idea where they are. The lake is about 400 square miles, has dozens of islands, and the surrounding park is at least another 100 square miles. We need to stick to Adagio’s schedule so she tells Aria where to go. Don’t you get it? Adagio doesn’t know that Aria’s on our side now!”

Hope bloomed on Applejack’s face. She said, “Of course! Adagio and Sonata had their fight, but Adagio hasn’t seen Aria all week.”

Pinkie chimed in as she bounced up and down on the loveseat. “Aria fooled her while we were in the school’s pottery room!”

“So, Aria will be able to text her again tomorrow to ask a question or two, but we need to be ready for anything, which is why we stacked all the gear downstairs,” said Sunset. The amulet was no longer glowing as she paced back and forth in front of Rarity’s entertainment center.

Sonata held up the road atlas she took with her from Sunset’s apartment. She opened it to the pages featuring Lake Piebald and said confidently, “We think Adagio and Raven will use one of the big caves on the lakeshore. It’ll probably be one of the two closest to the Park Headquarters.” She jumped and suddenly placed a bruised hand in the pocket of her sweatpants.

“Three points, before we get too far down the road,” said Discord, who produced a deck of cards and presented the three of diamonds. “First, as Sunset presents her plan, know that if Raven is involved, she is not helping Adagio out of the goodness of her black heart. The Siren princess will be betrayed. Second, it’s unlike Raven to rush a plan, so there must be something else we don’t know about.”

Sunset snapped her fingers in realization. She enthusiastically said, “It has to have something to do with the Sirens’ magic slowly leaking away, I just know it!”

“Twilight would be proud of your deduction, Sunset,” said Discord approvingly. He gestured with the playing card and continued. “Third, we will almost certainly have combat against undead tomorrow night. Even here, I fear Raven has amassed enough power to raise skeletons, zombies and such.”

The group murmured to one another, but was interrupted by Sonata’s shout. “Hold on! Adagio just sent me a message. I can’t believe it! Listen. ‘Sonata, it’s Adagio. I regret how we parted. I hope the farmer lived. Now, you must live. Do not come to Lake Piebald tomorrow night, but encourage Discord to do so if you can. If I survive, I will find a way to return for you using the Master’s power. Sing, paint and remember.’ But, I don’t understand what she’s asking.” Sonata flipped her ponytail back over her shoulder.

“Let’s not count Adagio out yet. She’s using me as bait, because she must have found out how much Raven hates me,” said Discord, who smiled as a huge plastic fishhook encircled his head.

Aria crossed her arms and looked at Sonata thoughtfully. After a pause she said, “She’s thinking of her duty to you, even after your confrontation. This means something…” She drummed her purple-tinted fingers on her bicep.

Applejack waved her arms in front of her face. “Sonata, let’s wait until we have the whole plan together and pick the right time to reply to Adagio,” she said. Nodding respectfully at Sunset, she added, “Keep going, sugar cube. I think we’re in the home stretch.”

“So, here’s the travel plan, girls,” said Sunset authoritatively, removing her leather jacket and draping it over the television. “We’ll all sleep until midmorning, wake up, eat, load the vehicles before the store opens, finish our preparations and then leave in the early afternoon to arrive at the lake near sunset. We won’t have free run of the place until the rangers shut down for the night, but we can get the lay of the land.”

Rarity raised an approving eyebrow at Sunset and said, “As a businesswoman, I have to ask: What do you count among our assets? You’ve covered the liabilities quite well.”

Aria displayed the magical mace, which glowed with pale white light in her grip. She said, “We have Chainbreaker, which is a powerful weapon. Here, Rarity, feel this.” She held out the weapon, and Rarity’s hands joined Aria’s on the wood from the Golden Oak Library.

“It feels warm, and pulses like a gentle heartbeat!” she said, her blue eyes shining with hope.

With a toss of her pigtails, Aria declared, “I know that Chainbreaker is made to fight the dead and free the enslaved. I feel that it must offer some protection from dark magic.”

“But only one of us can use that super duper flashlight of destruction!” cried Pinkie Pie.

Fluttershy raised her hand timidly, and said, “But, we all have the weapons we brought along. That will help.”

“Guns, Fluttershy! We need guns! Let’s crack into the safe at Sweet Apple Acres,” said Rainbow Dash, pantomiming a pistol with her thumb and forefinger.

Applejack threw her pillow at Rainbow Dash and angrily said, “There’s no way that I’m trusting you with a shotgun or a rifle! This isn’t ‘Cavalry Warfare 3’. We couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn in a real fight.”

“Here’s what I saw downstairs, girls,” said Sunset, who pointed to each of them in turn. “Fluttershy has her bow, arrows and belt quiver. Applejack has a sickle from the farm along with her lariat. The hatchet is for Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash fought Aria with the quarterstaff. Aria, of course, has Chainbreaker, and gave the old brass club to Rarity. Discord has his unique talents, and so do I.”

Discord stood and bowed to Sunset. He reached inside of his jacket, and respectfully said, “I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve recovered your spellcasting skill, but please accept a mage’s emergency weapon.” Discord removed a silver dagger from his jacket. The simple bronze hilt’s only ornamentation was an eight-pointed star artfully etched into the pommel. “Vulcan Anvil sends his regards.”

Sunset wiped her eyes, and then reverently accepted the weapon. “Thank you, Discord.”

“Aren’t you going to take something, Discord?” asked Applejack.

He reverted back to his normally sarcastic mannerisms, and said, “Of course, not! I have plenty of magic in reserve!” Discord grinned, opened his jacket and revealed a fuel gauge attached to his shirt. It currently indicated “full.”

“Hold on…” said Applejack. She ran out of the room, the sounds of heavy footfalls thumped down the stairs, paused for a moment, and then ascended the staircase. Breathing heavily, Applejack said, “Here. Take Pa’s knife. You may need it.”

Discord grasped the scabbard for the large hunting knife. The hilt design was of five apples, side by side, with the largest one aligned with the blade in the center. His mouth dropped open as he stared at Applejack in disbelief. “I honestly don’t know what to say…”

“What about Sonata?” asked Fluttershy, breaking the silence.

Sunset stepped forward and placed a hand on Sonata’s shoulder as she sat. The Siren’s lilac eyes grew watery once again. Sunset looked down and gave Sonata’s shoulder a squeeze, then stepped away and said, “Sonata will remain here. If we fail, she will write Twilight, and ask her to open the portal so that she can give a full report and get help.”

“No!” Discord’s loud interruption startled everyone.

Sonata sadly shook her head, and said, “I want to come, but I accept and understand Sunset’s decision.”

Discord stood and stretched out his hand. He implored, “Sunset Shimmer, she is very important in all of this!” His hair stood on end, and his beard fanned out over his chest.

“Thanks, Discord. I appreciate your concern, but I need to do the right thing this time,” said Sonata, resigned to her role.

The Spirit of Chaos squatted down in front of Sonata and looked deep into her eyes. He produced the thick Aquastrian history book and gently placed it in her lap. He whispered, “While we’re gone, read this, and then seek ‘spiritual guidance’. You will need it.” Discord’s necktie momentarily disappeared and replaced itself with a black-and-white clerical collar. After his clothing returned to normal, he winked and returned to his seat.

Pinkie Pie moaned, “This is taking forever! Are we done yet? I feel a food coma coming on!”

Sunset clenched her fists and they began to glow with green-blue light. “There is one more thing, Pinkie. I have relearned powerful magic, but that’s only part of it,” she said, once again taking command of Rarity’s den. The others looked on expectantly.

“Remember Twilight’s crown?” An illusory copy appeared in a flash of light and floated above Sunset’s outstretched palm. It disappeared as she tapped the glowing black-and-white gemstone at her throat. “My friends, this is a new Element of Harmony.”

Rarity leaned forward with rapt interest and asked, “So, which Element is it?”

Sunset began casting another illusion spell. The necklace and her hands glowed once more. The seven symbols representing the Rainbooms appeared, circling a column of pale green light.

Loudly and confidently, she said, “These, we already know.” Each cutie mark floated upwards and passed through the ceiling as she called it by name. “Pinkie’s Laughter, Applejack’s Honesty, Rarity’s Generosity, Fluttershy’s Kindness, Rainbow Dash’s Loyalty, and Twilight’s Magic.”

Each of the symbols, excepting Twilight’s, descended from the ceiling and floated over the corresponding woman’s head. Pinkie giggled and poked her finger through each of the three balloons hovering above her cloud of pink curls.

The symbol representing Sunset Shimmer’s Equestrian cutie mark — a red-and-gold sunburst, the colors split by a sinuous horizontal line — floated out of the column of light and placed itself atop the glowing amulet.

“I am proud to have finally earned the privilege of standing with you, and grateful that you are now my friends. After finally emerging from my dark personal journey, which I could have never done without your help, I now bear the Element of Redemption!”

The group erupted in cheers, applause, fist bumps and even an impromptu shower of glitter, which earned a stinging rebuke from Rarity. Joyous tears replaced excitement as the magic dissipated.

“We’re proud to call you our friend, too, Sunset,” said Fluttershy when the initial pandemonium abated.

Applejack pounded her fist on the arm of the couch. “And, I’m proud to follow you in rescuing my sister.”

“Let’s not overdo it, ladies. I’m done with putting it all together for you. It’s time for us all to get some rest,” said Sunset.

Rainbow Dash laughed and said, “Sunset, how in the hell do you expect us to sleep after all that?”

Smiling, Sunset rummaged through her backpack. Showing a mischievous smile, she said, “With these!” She displayed one of Princess Luna’s dusky blue feathers and a vial of white sand.

“You wouldn’t dare use magic to put us all to sleep!” cried Discord. He watched Sunset’s unflinching expression, and then uncertainly added, “Right?”

Sunset met Discord’s inquisitive gaze sternly. Suddenly, her face broke in a broad smile and she lowered the spell components. She said, “Not right now, but don’t push me!” The others giggled at her threat, so Sunset continued. “Listen, we can’t win this fight if we’re exhausted before we begin. So many of the mistakes I made this week were because I was tired and uncertain. I’ve only solved half of that problem.”

“Sunset, you’ve done a wonderful job. Nobody could have done better under the circumstances,” said Fluttershy encouragingly.

Embarrassed by the praise, Sunset was eager to change subjects. “If you find yourself having trouble nodding off because of the excitement, come find me, and I’ll cast a spell. So find a horizontal surface where you can sleep, and I’ll see you in the morning!”

The group grumbled, but followed Sunset’s instructions. During the next few minutes, Discord claimed the den’s couch while the young women changed clothes and prepared to sleep. They spread themselves throughout the second floor of the Carousel Boutique, seeking any comfortable spot.

Sonata steadfastly refused to let anyone sleep in Sweetie Belle’s bed. She stubbornly repeated to anyone who greedily looked at the sumptuous duvet, “It’s my fault that Shrieking Raven had the chance to take the girls, so I’ll guard her bed until you bring her back.”

Amid a chorus of “good nights”, Rarity ambushed Sunset as she left the bathroom. The fashion designer fluttered her eyelashes and said coquettishly, “So, where do you plan to rest, darling?”

“I need to write Twilight one more time. I’d planned to guard the equipment downstairs and just use one of the Crusaders’ sleeping bags,” replied Sunset delicately, removing a stray piece of lint from her comfortable pajamas.

She nodded and said, “I think I understand, but I can’t have you freezing to death. The store floor is so cold,” said Rarity, sticking out her bottom lip in a pretty pout.

“Don’t force me to use this, Rarity.” Grinning, she shook the vial of white sand. “I’ll be just fine. But, I think you should go grab Fluttershy and get her out of the den. I see how she’s been looking at Discord,” said Sunset.

Rarity gave Sunset a tight hug. “Sweet dreams, darling.”

“I somehow know that they will be. Nighty night,” said Sunset, returning the embrace.

She extinguished the hall light and tiptoed toward the stairs. Glancing into Sweetie Belle’s room, she noticed Sonata intently reading the Aquastrian history book with a flashlight, with her eyes emitting a pink glow in the darkness. Sunset smiled to herself, and quietly descended to the first floor.

After she unrolled Scootaloo’s sleeping bag and grabbed Apple Bloom’s pillow, Sunset sat at Rarity’s sewing table. She uncapped her pen, opened her journal, and began to write:

Dear Princess Twilight,

We are ready for battle, once we get a good night’s sleep. Aria, Sonata, Discord and I told our friends everything about the dangers we face. If you have additional advice and instructions, please pass them along soon. We will depart for Lake Piebald a little after noon tomorrow.

I am exhausted, so I will keep this brief. Once we leave Canterlot, I will entrust my journal to Sonata. While I’m certain she has finally turned away from He Who Swims in Darkness, questions remain about how she would react during combat.

If we fail, I have left her instructions to write you and request that you open the portal. I want her to return to Equestria and make a full report to you. Finally free of Leviathan’s influence, Sonata’s like a foal just learning to stand on shaking legs, but she has an inner strength that Adagio has been unable to touch, even after all this time. I wish you could have seen it - her apology to Applejack was so powerful and sincere.

I have to save those girls and stop Adagio, no matter what. Thank you for giving me the tools I need and for showing me a path to victory. While I regret so many of my previous choices, my path has strengthened me for this fight. If this is my last message, please tell Princess Celestia that my past no longer defines me, and that I feel I’ve finally risen from my own ashes.

Your faithful friend,
Sunset Shimmer

The moonlight streamed into the store windows, illuminating the collection of equipment spread across the store’s floor. Sunset slid into the sleeping bag and fluffed the pillow. Reviewing the message one last time, she closed the tome and sent her message to Twilight. As she did, an image flashed through her mind of Twilight standing in front of the trunk of a huge tree that appeared to be made from living crystal. Circular leaves hung from its branches, identical to the one she used to forge the Element of Redemption.

Sunset tried to examine the strange markings on the tree’s trunk, but her view was obstructed by Twilight, standing at the edge of a circular pool of water. She looked to her left at Princess Luna, whose horn glowed with sea-green radiance. The Alicorn of the Night was singing an entrancing lullaby.

The beautiful melody and the poetic words kept slipping away from Sunset, no matter how hard she concentrated. As sleep overtook her, she heard what could only be Luna’s voice say, “Rest well. Tonight I have the watch, Element Bearer.”

*****

Author's Note

This story has left its teenage years behind with the release of Chapter Twenty. Thank you for your continued support of Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer. With the premiere of Season 5 of Friendship is Magic, there is a new world of fan fiction to enjoy – both as an author and a reader – as such, I am more grateful than ever that you devote your time to this Rainbow Rocks continuation.

SerenaAveline and IsabellaAmoreSirenix continue to keep me from making too many blunders as I write. Their feedback and meticulous editing (even when it requires that I rewrite an entire scene) minimizes your distractions and keeps the story on track. EstrellaEssentia, despite her necessary hiatus from FIMFiction.net, also devotes her time as a prereader.

The stage is set, and the lines are drawn. The pieces are nearly in place. Shrieking Raven impatiently waits to move her first pawn on this grand chessboard. I was able to release two chapters in three weeks, but fear that I must slip back to my once-every-two-weeks cycle, so please be patient. I hope you enjoyed this update and I look forward to learning your thoughts! Thank you!

Chapter Twenty-One

Elegant Ensemble yawned as she parked her car behind Rarity’s convertible in front of the Carousel Boutique. She raised her eyebrow as she noticed dirt caking the vehicle’s back bumper and rear wheel wells, spoiling its normally pristine appearance. She shouldered her bag, removed the keys to the store and finally reached back into the car for her travel mug.

She yawned again, took a long drink of her espresso and said to herself, “I really shouldn’t have agreed to that last cocktail with that gentleman last night, but his stories were just so interesting! It’s a pity he must return to his duty station at Neighport. A rough Saturday morning is simply the price I must pay for swimming in the dating pool at my age.”

The midmorning sun, filtered through a sheet of high clouds, caused Elegant to squint as she approached the front door. She assessed and then accepted her blonde-haired, blue-eyed reflection in the store’s front window. Elegant then turned her key in the lock and pulled the door outward. In the darkened boutique, she announced, “Good morning, girls! I’m--”

“Shhh!” came an insistent hiss. The voice whispered, “Do be a dear, Elegant, and close the door. I suspect we’ll be opening a bit late today.”

The lamp on the sewing table was the sales floor’s only illumination. Rarity, her red spectacles perched on the end of her nose, was concentrating intently on her work, which appeared to be hand-sewing several pieces of heavy black canvas with a large needle. Elegant’s jaw dropped as she noticed that every garment rack had been pushed to the side of the room. Camping equipment, personal items, food, water, a composite bow and what appeared to be farming tools were laid out on the shop’s floor.

In the center of it all, folded into a lightweight sleeping bag, was Sunset. She slept on her side, her chest rising and falling slowly, while her left hand rested on a thick book that lay near her head. Elegant slipped off her high heels and tiptoed over to Rarity.

“You know I have learned to accept your flights of fancy, but what in the world is going on here?” whispered Elegant.

Rarity removed three pins from her mouth and used them to attach two more stiff box-shaped pieces of canvas to a sturdy webbed belt. She set down the item, turned to Elegant and softly but urgently inquired, “Elegant, do you remember what I told you about the Fall Formal and my friend Twilight?”

“Yes, I do,” replied the older woman, gazing skeptically at her employer. “But, you had to have been making all of that up. You are prone to exaggeration, after all.”

Shaking her head sadly, Rarity stood and brought her head close to Elegant’s ear and whispered, “I wish it were so, but the magic and the danger were real. Something has happened that’s ten times worse, and my friends and I must take care of it.” Rarity extended a thick envelope towards Elegant. “If you do not hear from me by Monday morning, open this, and then take it to our lawyer. It transfers ownership of the Carousel Boutique to you.”

Startled by the younger woman’s declaration, Elegant’s brow furrowed in confusion, as she steadied herself by placing a hand on the sewing table. “What are you up to?” she quietly asked. When Rarity did not respond, she rubbed her blue eyes and added, “You’re telling me that everything this past weekend was real? The green mist, the holographic monsters, and the rainbow laser-effect – all of that was magic?”

Rarity nodded and pointed at Sunset’s restful figure. Her tone was plaintive, bordering on pleading. “Yes, Elegant. And, she is our only chance to prevent a horrible magical catastrophe. She wasn’t even born in our world! Darling, there’s no time to engage more conventional assistance. My friends and I must complete this quest ourselves, at the risk of our own lives. Under no circumstances will I give you more details. Please, trust me on this, though I understand that it must be difficult to do so.”

The older woman looked back at Sunset and then into Rarity’s intense, desperate gaze. At last, she sighed and nodded her agreement. “I know better than to fight you once you’ve made up your mind, Rarity. A gentleman told me an interesting story about selfless, courageous acts last night over a drink, so I’m sympathetic. But, permit me this: Is there anything I can do to help?” asked Elegant worriedly. Her gaze lingered on a stray ray of sunlight that penetrated the curtains to reflect off of the bright steel of Applejack’s sickle.

Rarity forced Elegant’s fingers to close over the envelope. Solemnly gazing into her eyes, she gravely replied, “There are three things, darling: First, we will leave one of our group behind, and Sunset will want you to take care of her for a time. Second, do not alert the authorities of our disappearance unless you are forced to open the envelope.” Rarity permitted herself a small smile. “And third, please hold these pockets together for me. I’ve never quite made anything like this before, and it’s more difficult than I thought!”

During the next half-hour, Elegant quietly assisted Rarity with several tasks while Sunset continued her slumber in the center of the floor. The proprietor hung a sign on the front door that said “Unexpectedly closed for our Spring Inventory,” updated the business’ accounting records and helped Rarity finish her gift for Sunset.

As noon grew closer, Rarity and Elegant began to hear footfalls from the second floor along with the telltale “whoosh” of water through the building’s pipes. Sunset flipped over, as she inexorably climbed towards wakefulness.

When they finished their work, Rarity suddenly reached a shaking hand across the table and laid it atop Elegant’s steady one. The older woman nearly flinched in surprise, then relaxed and gave the white hand a reassuring squeeze. "Whatever it is, I'm sure it'll be alright."

“Maybe not this time, Elegant,” Rarity murmured, removing her spectacles for a second and wiping her eyes.

As Sunset stretched and opened her eyes at long last, Elegant leaned across the table and whispered to Rarity, “You’ll tackle your problems head-on like you always do, with the passion and independence I’ve come to admire. After all these years, I’m just glad to see you accept the same sort of generous help you have always given to your friends – and to your sister. It’s a welcome change.” Elegant winked and released Rarity’s hand.

Rarity smiled and said loudly and pleasantly, “Good morning, sleepyhead!”

The purple semicircles now gone from underneath her green-blue eyes, Sunset threw both arms above her head and stretched again. She looked over at the sewing table and grinned at the pair of fashion designers. “Oh, I see. I rate a wake-up party. How long was I out? I haven’t slept that well in years!”

Elegant stood and cleared her throat. “Excuse me, ladies. I’m going to make coffee and ensure that the second floor is still standing.”

She turned towards the stairs and nearly collided with Discord, who wore three different types of military camouflage. Fluttershy was standing close behind, dressed simply for a long road trip.

Blue eyes met red, and Discord was the first to recover from the sudden meeting. He bowed deeply, took Elegant’s hand, moved to kiss it and said in Prench, “Enchanté, Cher—Oof!”

Rarity covered her mouth to stifle a giggle as Fluttershy delivered an elbow to Discord’s ribs and edged past him. Elegant, blushing at Discord’s bizarre attempt at a chivalrous introduction, simply continued upstairs without a word.

Discord rubbed his side and chuckled mischievously in Fluttershy’s direction, muttering, “Element of Kindness, indeed.”

Fluttershy dashed forward to embrace Sunset, who hadn’t yet emerged from the sleeping bag. “You look like you slept very well! I think I was the first one upstairs to get up, because I was surprised when I found that Rarity’s side of the big bed was empty.” Sunset and Fluttershy looked over at the sewing table.

“Well, first, to answer Sunset’s question, I’m guessing you’ve been asleep for about ten hours. I have not, and I apologize for abandoning you, Fluttershy but I had true inspiration strike me at about six this morning,” said Rarity enthusiastically, removing her eyeglasses and placing them on the table. Her deep blue eyes were beaming. “Sunset, I have made you something eminently practical for the trials ahead. Come here and I’ll show you!”

Sunset rose to her feet and made her way over to Rarity’s restored inspiration space. Discord and Fluttershy stood off to the side as Rarity guided Sunset to stand at the focal point of the three-paneled mirror.

Sunset could see Rarity concealing something made from heavy black fabric behind her back. The fashion designer pleasantly ordered, “Close your eyes, darling.” When Sunset complied, she added, “Oh, and Fluttershy, be a dear and come give me some help.”

Sunset felt the scratchy cloth wrap around her waist and over her shoulder. The strap, which draped from her right shoulder to her left hip, carefully avoiding the Element of Redemption, was unusually heavy across her chest. One set of hands secured a sturdy plastic buckle around her waist while the other adjusted a strap behind her right shoulder, deftly tucking in the loose end beneath the belt and lingering against her shoulder blade a second or two longer than necessary.

“I can’t have you rummaging around in a backpack like you did last night! Alright darling, you may open your eyes,” directed Rarity.

Sunset’s reflection was blocked by Fluttershy, Discord and Rarity, who all looked at her approvingly. Discord snapped his fingers and a pointed gray hat and a ridiculously long beard flashed into existence along with a puff of smoke. “There! Just what a two-legged magic-user needs!” Cutting his practical joke short, he snapped his fingers again, made the outrageous items disappear and gestured for Sunset to look into the mirror.

Rarity had fashioned a combination belt and sash out of heavy webbed material and attached several modular pockets in varying shapes and sizes. Some were closed with zippers, others with buttons, and some remained open. The silver dagger from Vulcan Anvil’s forge was cleverly concealed in a sheath on the back of the sash. The only splashes of color amid the black fabric were two tiny replicas of Sunset’s cutie mark, with one embroidered atop her shoulder, and the other painted on the belt’s buckle.

Sunset bounded over to Rarity and wrapped her in a warm embrace, then widened her arms and added Fluttershy and Discord to the group squeeze. “Thank you so much, Rarity! It's perfect for my spell components!”

A mildly annoyed voice said, “I hate to interrupt the fashion show, but the clock is ticking.” Aria held a steaming mug of coffee in one hand. Her face frowned, but her eyes smiled.

Sunset removed the bandolier and laid it carefully next to her other belongings. She straightened up, and said, “You’re right, Aria. Let’s get dressed and make sure we have everything we need.”

Pinkie Pie called from the top of the stairs. “Applejack says that if Discord doesn’t get up here with a plunger and some air freshener right now, she’s going to give him to Raven herself!”

The Spirit of Chaos meekly climbed the stairs, holding a polka-dotted plunger in one hand and an oversized toilet brush in the other. He shook his head in exasperation as he complained, “I want to win and go home so I don’t ever have to encounter this situation ever again.” More loudly, he added, “Pinkie, you’re the one that let me have both a burrito and tacos yesterday!”

The building full of women laughed loudly. Fluttershy and Rarity drew back the shades, and let the sun shine through the blinds into the Carousel Boutique as the group set about their tasks.

“Your Majesty!” called Focused Blaze.

“Mother!” called Adagio, swimming closely behind the guardsmare. “I request a word with you!”

Queen Blinding Dazzle looked back at the pair pursuing her, and slowed her transit to the royal living quarters. Her golden eyes flashed with anger and her silver muzzle was contorted in a furious snarl. Specks of inky ebony magic still spat forth from the spires of her crown.

“Your Majesty, please wait for a moment!” implored Focused once more.

The monarch halted in the empty passageway and silently allowed her daughter and her protector to approach.

Adagio chose her words carefully and with as much deference as she could muster. “Your Majesty, I am quite aware that the lives of your subjects are yours to do with as you please...” She nearly faltered when her mother’s golden eyes narrowed dangerously, but continued. “Why did you choose to dirty your fins and slay the merstallion in the throne room?”

Looking suspiciously from Adagio to Focused and back again, assumed superiority dripped from Blinding Dazzle’s words. “I will permit you this answer, only because you are about to serve our Master in the unique way we discussed, my impetuous daughter.” Quick as a sapphire shark, the Queen darted towards the Princess. “You must never, ever, give those that disobey our Master the slightest bit of mercy. If that seed of hope sprouts, it will destroy us. It will destroy you!”

Focused Blaze’s scales were suddenly dull. Her voice was uncharacteristically soft as she said, “Princess, please permit Her Majesty to recover from the events in the throne room. I will escort you to the music mistress.”

Adagio shrugged off the tactful attempt to end the confrontation. She remained floating in place, with her golden muzzle a few inches from her mother’s silver scales. The young princess asked, “How do we properly carry out our duty to lead the clans, when we kill so quickly? How do we replace the lost resource of a trained warrior? How can a murdered guardstallion be put to the question to tell us about others that might betray us? A convert or a spy serves us much better than a corpse, Your Majesty.”

The Queen laughed in her daughter’s face. “You fool! After all I’ve told you, you still cling to your misguided idealism. That insolent wretch may be dead, but he will continue to serve the Master forever. If my plan succeeds, he will serve us forever!”

Adagio resisted the temptation to cringe and stoically endured her mother’s unhinged laughter. The Queen, still cackling, whirled around and swam out of sight.

“Come, Princess. Let me make you some kelp tea. There’s someone I’d like for you to meet,” said Focused, gently nudging Adagio towards the officer’s barracks.

Adagio nodded. “Thank you, Captain. I appreciate the offer and accept. I admit that my mother has been increasingly unwell lately.”

Color returned to Focused’s scales. She lowered her head respectfully, and said softly, “You are not the only one to have noticed this, Your Highness. I fear she is no longer hearing the Master’s words clearly. Please follow me to my humble quarters. I would be honored if you would meet my daughter.”

Adagio suddenly awoke. She sat straight up in bed, her heart racing, the filmy sheets soaked with sweat despite the spring chill. Sweeping damp curls from her face, her breathing slowed and the dream returned to the depths of memory. Adagio picked up the alarm clock from where she had knocked it to the floor during her restless sleep.

She looked at the clock and frowned. “There’s not much time. I’m sure Raven didn’t lift a bony finger to look after the sacrifices last night. They will be awake in a couple of hours and I must be ready to supervise them.”

Adagio went into the attached bathroom. She splashed some cold water on her face and rapidly fixed her cloud of orange curls. Anticipating the struggles that would punctuate her last evening in this world, Adagio decided to dress simply, in a gray t-shirt, a half-unzipped black fleece vest, stylish black jeans, and practical boots.

Returning to the bedroom, she surveyed the disorganized pile of possessions, rolled up her sleeves, and grimly started to work. She spread her items on the bed, and emptied Sonata’s seabag on the floor. A millennium's worth of practice took over, and she quickly packed her basic travel kit, including her sleeping bag and tiny pillow.

Her hands hovered over her painting equipment, and her whirlwind of motion came to a sudden stop. Adagio wiggled her fingers and thought, If this works, I won’t have hands again. I’m never coming back to this world.

Sonata’s empty olive-drab seabag taunted Adagio. She tentatively stepped around the bed and looked at the collection of items spread across the area rug. Adagio picked up a tiny wooden chest, placed it in the palm of her hand and opened the lid. It was full of neatly organized, easy to hide keepsakes that meant something to Sonata. Adagio realized she had never taken the time to learn their significance.

“An old copper coin; a ticket stub; a brass button from those terrible uniforms; a poker chip from Las Pegasus; a yellowed playbill from Trottingham; a red, white and blue ribbon…” she sank to her knees and took inventory, naming each item but only knowing a tiny bit about it. Closing the chest, she regretfully said to herself, “A thousand years of shared experiences, and now we’re all apart. At least you will have your bracelet until I can bring you with me, Sonata.”

Adagio left her clothing behind, replacing the space in her pack with the memory chest, the sketch pad full of drawings and a couple of the sheets she had painted with Sonata. She stuffed Sunset Shimmer’s items in the pack’s front compartment and placed the stolen butterfly knife in one of the fleece vest’s pockets.

This is a grave risk, but it’s better to dare greatly to rule Aquastria than to return to a life on the run with the Master’s magic slowly leaking out of me, Adagio thought as she looked at her determined reflection. Aria, please get here soon! Your future Queen needs her protector.

Adagio shouldered her backpack and carefully descended the stairs. With the beakers, flasks, hot plates and ingredients scattered across the counter, the kitchen looked more like a chemistry lab than a place to prepare food. Raven added drop of purple liquid to a test tube, and looked up from her work as the Siren princess came into her view.

“Good morning, Adagio. I hope you are well rested after such a long slumber,” said the banshee cheerfully.

Grimacing slightly at the veiled insult, the Siren faked a pleasant smile and replied, “I envy your endurance, Raven. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to use the expression ‘slept like the dead’ ever again. But yes, I had good rest. After a meal, I’ll be ready to move our guests.”

Raven added a pinch of green powder to the test tube and stirred it with a slender glass rod. “I’ve nearly finished with the mind-clouding potion. May I recommend some subterfuge to make sure the girls drink it?”

I tire of her patronizing attitude, even if she is a powerful banshee, thought Adagio. Aloud, she added patiently, “I’ll always take good advice. What did you have in mind?” She retrieved a pair of packaged energy bars from the pantry, opened one and took a large bite.

The banshee set the test tube in the rack and placed both palms on the counter. She leaned forward and said, “Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle still see me as a teacher, and the sleeping draught will have jumbled their memories. But you, Your Highness, are a potent source of fear.”

“Oh, so you will just hand them a cup as they’re chained to the bed, and then all’s well?” asked Adagio sarcastically. She paused to wipe her mouth on the back of her hand between bites.

Raven narrowed her flat black eyes and cautioned Adagio. “We each know the other is not a fool. It’s unwise to treat me like one.” She continued more pleasantly. “I want you to chain me to the fourth bed so that they believe I’m in the same predicament that they are. All four of us will appear to be innocent women held captive by the ruthless Siren!”

“But, what if I conveniently lose the key to the handcuffs?” Adagio playfully asked, raising an eyebrow.

Raven pulled the heavy steel rack out of the oven and chuckled. “Oh, those chains downstairs can’t hold me!” In one fierce motion, she folded the oven rack in half. As she did so, Adagio noticed a faint glow from one of the banshee’s bracelets.

She’s not as naturally strong as I feared, thought Adagio. Perhaps Aria and I have a chance after all if I can relieve her of some magic items. Of course, we must strike first.

Raven set the oven rack down and continued. “I will convince the girls to drink the ‘water’ to keep their strength up. Once the potion takes effect, release me so I don’t have to pour concrete into the basement floor again, then start leading the girls to the cave. I’m sure that while their minds are clouded, you can find appropriate lies to convince the three of them to follow you down the path.

“Hmph,” said Adagio, nodding with grudging admiration. “Like lambs to the slaughter. I’m impressed, Raven. That’s quite devious. How long will the potion last?”

Raven scribbled on a scratch pad, underlined a number, then turned to Adagio and said, “It will last a few hours. I recommend giving them another dose in the late afternoon, but their minds will be clear by midnight, so we can perform our ritual.”

Reaching back into the pantry, Adagio removed a loaf of Prench bread. With false casualness, she asked, “Raven, how will you have your Lord bring my Master to us?”

“Tsk, tsk, Your Highness!” Raven’s chuckle sounded like dry leaves rasping against stone. “I won’t give away all my secrets, but suffice it to say that I have a way to do so that is mine alone. I’ll call for Lord Vecna to nudge He-Who-Swims-In-Darkness sometime after midnight. Think of it as a particularly final ‘last call’, Adagio.” The banshee smiled at her own joke.

While noting the banshee’s ominous comment, Adagio tore the loaf of bread into four large chunks and placed each chunk on a paper plate. She changed the subject back to the task at hand. “I would like to provide food to the sacrifices, while you trick them into drinking the potion. There is something darkly poetic about prisoners having a meal of bread and water.”

Rolling her dark eyes with disdain, Raven said, “They won’t starve to death in a day, Adagio.”

“But confused or not, they will need some stamina to make the walk down to the cave and to squeeze through that narrow opening in the back. Your knockout dessert was a long time ago,” Adagio insisted.

Raven’s unnerving laugh issued forth from her mouth once again. A hint of sarcasm entered her voice as she said, “I didn’t know you were so maternal! If I didn’t know you so well, I’d say you were starting to go soft.”

“There is much that you don’t know about me, Raven,” Adagio replied, absently rubbing her stomach with her free hand. “But, I assure you, this is a completely practical decision.”

The banshee threw her hands in the air in mock surrender and smiled. “Forgive me for harassing you so much. I agree that your idea is sound. After so much experience with teenagers, you make an excellent point. Their feet and brains are completely controlled by their stomachs. I’ll finish the potion and we’ll proceed.”

Adagio added butter to the large hunks of bread while Raven finished her work. The completed potion was clear, with the same rusty hue of water coming from a pipe that hadn’t been used in a long time. The banshee carefully divided the product of her alchemical skill between six water bottles, giving each only a tiny tinge of color.

“I see. One dose now, and another later,” Adagio noted as she placed two untainted bottles of water in her backpack.

Raven filled the sink with soapy hot water and submerged the alchemical glassware. She wiped her hands with a dish towel and nodded approvingly. “Good, I don’t need to waste time leading you through every aspect of the plan, but I will say this: It’s vitally important that you keep the three girls under your spell until night falls and there’s no chance of intrepid hikers or amorous-minded couples stumbling on our ritual site.”

“It appears that you’re nearly finished here,” Adagio observed with a sweeping gesture that encompassed the kitchen. “Is there anything else you need to do before I set out the ‘snack’ for our guests and set you up to be a false damsel in distress?”

Flashing a crooked grin, Raven replied, “No, Adagio, I think we’re ready. But, I have installed microphones in the basement.” She pointed towards a radio sitting on the table next to the large easy chair. “Channel two will let you hear everything downstairs. So, once I’m staged as ‘your captive,’ you can brew a cup of coffee, put your feet up and relax, Your Highness.”

The banshee led the way to the basement. As she followed, Adagio thought, Raven’s left very little to chance. She’s even still dressed in her work clothes from the previous day, just as it would be if I had abducted her.

Adagio carefully placed the plates holding the simple snack on the floor next to each girl’s bed. Raven trailed behind with the potion-laced water bottles. The three girls had barely budged since they had been secured into place the previous night. Their chests rose and fell slowly and peacefully, oblivious to their incarceration.

The words to a nearly-lost lullaby came to mind from deep in the Siren’s memory. Adagio bent over Apple Bloom’s bed and inhaled, but before she could give voice to the first note, she thought, I’d sooner die than let Raven hear that song.

Grimly recalling her earlier experience with the banshee’s alchemy, Adagio stood straight, crossed her arms and idly commented, “I wonder what dreams they are having. Your sleeping draught gave me a particularly vivid experience.”

“Shush, Adagio.” Raven put her index finger to her lips and whispered, “We don’t want to wake them before I’m settled in.”

The Siren silently nodded, and thought. Why would dreams force her to change the subject? Raven almost always answers my questions, even if it’s just to prove her superiority. Adagio kept a poker face as she came to a conclusion. This plan, while it fits my purposes, gives me almost no opportunity to speak to the three girls while their minds are clear. There must be a reason why.

Raven handed Adagio the keys to the restraints, and then lay down on the last empty bed in the soundproofed basement. She permitted Adagio to lock both the handcuffs and the anklecuffs. Standing up straight, she brushed her orange curls out of her face and smiled sarcastically at the banshee. She said softly, “Is that tight enough for you, Raven?”

“Just because I’m doing this, doesn’t mean I enjoy it! Attach the chains and leave me be,” Raven snapped. “The sooner I get started, the better.”

Once back upstairs, Adagio muttered to herself, “Raven is annoyed. I hope Aria finds a way to bring Discord here. If he’s nearby, I know I can make that spark of annoyance grow into a blaze of anger to force the banshee into a mistake.”

After a few minutes, Adagio was seated in Raven’s easy chair, drinking a mug of coffee and flipping through her sketch book. At last, she turned on the “monitor”, which was already tuned to the appropriate channel.

Adagio heard Raven speaking to the three teenage girls. The Siren rolled her eyes at the banshee’s overdramatic acting. “Oh, it’s terrible! We’ve been trapped in this basement by a lunatic! Do you remember the Battle of the Bands? It’s one of those awful Dazzlings!”

Scootaloo’s determined voice came through the speaker. “It has to be Adagio! She’s the only Siren that’s not accounted for!”

Good, Aria’s plan has worked like a charm. She’s completely infiltrated the group, thought Adagio.

“Adagio? It’s so hard to remember, girls. She must have slipped us some drugs,” moaned Raven in false confusion.

Sweetie Belle, despite the fearful edge in her voice, was eager to help. “Ms. Raven, don’t you remember the girl with the long orange hair and the spiky hair clip?”

“Was that her name? All I remember is that a red sports car blocked the road, and I was forced to stop. I talked to her, and then woke up here. Now, we must calmly think of survival and escape. Girls, I bet you’re thirsty. Adagio, if that’s her name, left us some water,” said Raven convincingly.

A skeptical voice with a country accent interrupted. “Are you sure, Ms. Raven? I’m really thirsty, but I’m not sure we should eat or drink anything that Adagio gives us,” said Apple Bloom.

That’s my smart girl, thought Adagio with mingled approval and annoyance.

“Yeah! Rainbow Dash and Sunset Shimmer will figure out how to rescue us soon enough. They were really close to figuring out what Adagio was up to,” said Scootaloo.

Sweetie Belle groaned and added, “Well, they need to hurry. I’m really hungry and thirsty.”

Sensing the opening, Raven earnestly said, “Well, I drank my water and had a few bites of my bread, and I’m doing alright. Maybe Adagio has something else in mind. You really should keep your strength up.”

After a bit more convincing from Raven, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were convinced that the bread and tainted water were safe. Adagio listened intently as Raven masterfully misdirected the three girls and concocted an elaborate backstory covering the past twelve hours.

“I’m glad that they didn’t take the banshee’s story at face value; it shows their inner strength. It’s a pity that they are such ideal gifts to the Master, but it is the way of my mother and all those that came before her.” The Siren’s voice cast aside its regret, and took on a regal tone as she summarized one of her mother’s more lucid lessons. “As rulers, we are forced to sacrifice a tiny number to He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness to ensure an unchallenged rule; we lift the burden of choice from those too weak to endure it; and most importantly, we protect Aquastria and its citizens from enemies.”

“But my mother didn’t have to resort to this sort of high-stakes deception, did she?” The Siren began to pace the living room. “Think, Adagio! What can I say to convince them? How can I fool them? Who would the girls listen to?”

Suddenly, she recalled the story that several students had told her about Apple Bloom’s farming family. After a quick internet search on her phone, she found the information she sought. Placing the phone back in her pocket, Adagio clapped her hands once in satisfaction. “That’s it! So many of them at the high school said something along the lines of, ‘It’s as good as a secret, because nobody talks about it anymore.’ Now, how to quickly change my appearance?”

She quickly removed her tiara, currently in its normal hair ornament configuration, and placed it in her vest pocket along with the stolen knife. Then, Adagio tied a piece of string around her long orange hair at a point that was nearly level with her shoulders. For the finishing touch, she raced upstairs with a pair of kitchen scissors and cut a strip of fabric from one of the discarded outfits, fashioning it into a purple bow that she placed on the back of her head, further restraining her curly locks.

“It’s only a wild guess, and the Apples won’t be welcoming me to a barn-raising anytime soon, but, perhaps I,” she passably imitated Applejack’s accent, “can fake it better than a puffer-fish facing down a barracuda.”

Adagio could easily tell when the potion took effect, because the girls stopped speaking about their imprisonment, and began fixating on random observations. She listened to their comments through the speaker, and decided it was time to release Raven. Adagio paused to listen at the top of the stairs.

“This pillow is fluffy, like a cloud. I bet if I was flying in an airplane, I could pinch off a piece of cloud and take it home with me,” Scootaloo sighed dreamily.

Sweetie Belle’s squeaky voice chimed in. “That light, it’s so bright, like I’m back on stage at CHS! But, I’ve never done a play lying down. Am I in a movie? Lights! Camera! Action! Silver Spoon, go get me a latte!”

Where the other two girls were mildly euphoric, Apple Bloom was distressed. “Where are the windows? Help! Big Mac! Applejack! Granny! I’m trapped in the feed box!”

Adagio prepared herself to play her role. She took a deep breath and glided down the stairs. Raven looked at her quizzically and presented her wrists, so the Siren could release her from her fake imprisonment.

“A new cast member!” announced Sweetie Belle grandly. Her pale green eyes were unfocused as she looked in the general direction of the stairs.

Adagio remembered what she had just quickly read in the obituary and associated news stories, and only let a hint of an accent come into her tone as she stood in front of all four beds. “It is I, Citrus Blossom, and I’ve come to take you from this place.”

Apple Bloom tried to get up and fell back down as she ran out of the slack in the chains. The empty bread plate fell to the concrete floor. “Ma! Get me out of here!”

Impossibly, Raven’s jaw fell open and her flat dark eyes widened with surprise. She nodded respectfully to Adagio and played her part in the improvised scene. “Girls, please be patient. Apple Bloom, your mother is going to get me out of here first and will then return to take you to safety.”

“Yes. Your captor is gone for a little while, but she’ll return soon enough. Once I’ve helped Ms. Raven, I’ll take you to a place to hide,” said Adagio, spreading her arms wide in an exaggerated protective gesture. She unlocked the restraints holding the banshee.

Scootaloo, her pupils dilated and eyes leaking tears, threw herself into Adagio’s story with abandon. “Mrs. Blossom, I’m so glad you’re alright! I’ve spent my whole life being sorry for what happened to you, Apple Bloom’s daddy, and my parents!”

Free of the chains, Raven got to her feet and started to follow Adagio upstairs. Apple Bloom, barely coherent, shrieked, “Ma! Don’t leave me again! Please come back!”

The Siren hesitated on the bottom stair, then decisively turned around and went to Apple Bloom’s bed. Adagio wrapped her arms around the inconsolable, chained farmgirl. Tenderly, she said, “Be quiet and brave, my daughter. I had a surprise for when we reached our hiding place, but I’ll tell you now if it will make you feel better.”

Her tears wet against Adagio’s neck, Apple Bloom stopped crying and asked, “What is it, Ma?”

“Your father will be waiting for you when we get there,” lied Adagio convincingly. An unusual sensation crept into the pit of her stomach as she said the words and felt the drugged girl in her arms relax.

As the Siren untangled herself from the embrace and the chains, Apple Bloom said, “I’ll be brave, Ma. I’ve always tried to be.”

The unease in Adagio’s stomach grew as she ascended the stairs, followed closely by Shrieking Raven. When they reached the main floor and closed the door to the basement, the banshee stopped playing her role as an abducted schoolteacher.

Bowing deeply and adding an antiquated flourish, Raven said, “I bow before a true master of deception. That was brilliant, Adagio! As long as the girls receive their second dose of the potion, they will follow you to Tartarus and back.”

“Thank you, Raven,” said Adagio, subtly shifting her weight from one foot to the other. Her nausea growing, she was eager to conclude the conversation with the banshee. She raised her chin authoritatively, and ordered, “I request you stay out of sight as I transport the sacrifices. I will see you at the cave after sunset, as we discussed.”

Raven nodded admiringly at Adagio once more. “Very well, Adagio. And once again, using Apple Bloom and Applejack’s dead mother as a lure is masterful.” She turned on her heel and ascended the stairs to the second floor.

After the banshee disappeared upstairs, the Siren walked over to the sink and filled a glass of water. She drank it down completely. Before returning to the basement, Adagio retrieved and opened Sunset’s compact to check her reflection, and failed to meet her own gaze. She placed the scrying device back into her pack.

The stairs creaked as Adagio walked down the stairs. As all three girls looked at her blankly, she said, “I’m back. Remember, I’m Citrus Blossom.”

“Ma, thank heavens you came back for us!” cried Apple Bloom. “I hope Ms. Raven’s alright.”

Releasing Apple Bloom first, Adagio instructed the Crusaders. “She will be fine, my brave daughter. Girls, we must be quiet and careful. I’m taking you to a secret place that few people know about, but it will be a tough walk down a steep path. Are you ready?”

“I was born ready, Mrs. Blossom!” said Scootaloo. “Just wait until Rainbow Dash hears about this!” Despite the brash tone in her voice, she swayed unsteadily from side to side.

Adagio released the other two girls, and swallowed some bile in her throat as she said, “You may not need to wait very long, Scootaloo. Rainbow Dash will probably find us later tonight.” She turned to Sweetie Belle and added, “And so will Rarity. Follow me upstairs, quietly.”

“Whoa! My head feels like it’s been wrapped in cotton candy. Where’s Silver with my drink?” Sweetie Belle wondered, her head tilting to one side.

Apple Bloom took charge and said, “I’m not feeling so great either, but I have to see Pa. Hold hands, just like we’re back in elementary school. Ma will make sure we get there.”

Smiling genuinely, Adagio nodded. “Good idea, Apple Bloom. Thank you for helping your friends. Now, we must go.”

The group of four slowly climbed the stairs, hand-in-hand. When they reached the kitchen, the Siren shouldered her backpack, adjusted the straps, and gripped Apple Bloom’s hand once more. As they left the cabin, Adagio looked back and saw Raven standing in a second-floor window, watching the slow procession towards the wooded path. Her human disguise gone, Adagio gulped in fear upon seeing the skeletal face with its humanlike eyes and perfectly coiffed black hair. She tugged gently on Apple Bloom’s hand, urging the teenagers to move a bit faster.

Despite the bright afternoon sunlight, it took them nearly an hour to cover the mile between the cabin and the entrance to Bridal Cave. The path was poorly maintained and steep, which would have caused the trip to be slow and cautious under the best of circumstances. Adagio’s trips to the cave the night before proved to be useful, as the girls’ altered mental state slowed their progress to a crawl.

At last, they arrived safely on the sand and gravel beach, where Lake Piebald’s cold waves lapped the shore. Adagio looked up at the steep thirty-foot tall rise that they had managed to safely descend and shook her head with relief. She could see the entrance to the cave about a hundred yards away.

“Hurry, girls! We’re almost to our hiding place!” said Adagio, shielding her eyes against the sun.

The entrance to the cave was no larger than a standard door, but once inside, the first chamber opened into a spherical cavern with a huge vaulted ceiling. The walls were coated with bluish celestite crystals, and stalactites above were paired with stalagmites below.

“Ma, why are your eyes pink?” asked Apple Bloom, noticing Adagio’s glowing magenta eyes.

Growing weary of the lies, Adagio sighed and answered truthfully, “It’s magic, Apple Bloom. I can see well in the dark, so let’s all hold hands more tightly.”

Opposite the entrance, the large circular chamber narrowed into what appeared to be a small crevice. An optical illusion created by the celestite crystals and the cave pearls concealed an entrance to a second cavern.

Adagio released herself from Apple Bloom’s grip and led Scootaloo forward. “Squeeze through the opening, little one. Our safe place is in there.”

She repeated her instructions to Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom, and then removed her backpack and shoved it through the opening ahead of her. Adagio inhaled, and scraped her way through the snug entrance, and nearly fell over all three girls who huddled together in the darkness. Water droplets and ragged breathing were the only audible sounds.

“Stay here for a moment. I’ll turn on the light,” said Adagio as she made her way through the darkness.

Sweetie Belle giggled. “It’s so dark! I can smell Scootaloo, but I can’t see her!”

“Quiet! I want to see Pa!” cried Apple Bloom.

I need to give them the second dose of potion soon. They are becoming more lucid with every second that passes, thought Adagio. She made her way to the battered camping lantern that had illuminated the Sirens’ aquarium hideout and activated it. The three girls gasped in wonder and Adagio smiled at their reaction, since it was so close to her own the night before.

The second cavern was much larger than the first, about forty yards in diameter. The blue celestite crystals mingled with pyrite and other minerals that reflected prismatically in the dim light. At the back of the cavern, a black pool, fed by an underground river, filled a small semicircle about twenty feet across. The lantern’s light played off of the rippling water, creating an ethereal, dreamlike effect. A small boxlike shelter, covered in sheets, sat next to the subterranean pool.

Adagio retrieved the three tainted water bottles from her pack and gave one to each of the three teenagers. “Girls, I know you must be thirsty from your long hike. Please, could you drink some water before we do anything else?” she implored, mustering her maternal charm.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo eagerly opened their bottles and quickly consumed the contents. Even in the dim light, it was obvious that the potion had a nearly immediate effect. Their pupils dilated, and they began to sway as they stood in place.

Apple Bloom fidgeted with the lid, but didn’t open it. She raised an eyebrow, and asked suspiciously, “Where’s Pa? You said he’d be here. I’ve waited so long!”

Adagio knelt in front of Apple Bloom and opened the water bottle’s lid. She carefully embraced the teenager and answered, “He’s coming from so far away, Apple Bloom. It will take him time to arrive. Pa would want you to be well when he sees you so grown up! Please be brave and drink this for me.” Adagio kept her face neutral as the pit of her stomach tightened once again.

“Yes, Ma,” said Apple Bloom demurely. She obediently drained the water bottle, imbibing her second dose of the mind-clouding potion.

The three girls, now much more easily controlled, made random comments about the cave’s beauty that mixed with their individual dreamlike states. Adagio removed the sheets concealing a ten-foot by seven-foot cage, and grabbed a small bag from inside.

“Girls, remember, we must be very quiet and very still, or we will be found. This is to keep you safe until Pa, Rainbow Dash and Rarity arrive. Will you come here, please?” Adagio removed three gags and six lengths of rope.

The Siren, using the power of suggestion and another series of outrageous lies, convinced the three girls to accept having their hands and feet bound without a fight. Before leading them to the cage, she gagged each one of them.

Apple Bloom nearly broke through her mental haze. Her last plaintive cry before Adagio gagged her was, “Ma! You promised Pa would be here! Where is he? I miss you both so much!”

After locking the three sacrifices into the cage, Adagio slumped to the cave floor. She looked at the trio, obediently waiting and blissfully unaware of their fate. Adagio’s magenta eyes locked with Apple Bloom’s unfocused yellow gaze. Suddenly, the Siren’s mind swam and her stomach heaved. With only a second’s warning, Adagio emptied the contents of her stomach into the dark pool of water.

Wiping the bile and stray vomit from her mouth with the back of her sleeve, Adagio gazed into the black water and said, “By the Maelstrom, what is wrong with me all of a sudden? How can I barter with the Master for their lives and still become Queen? Who would I choose to spare if I could only save one of them?”

With no answer forthcoming from the darkness, the Siren princess settled in for a long wait before her date with destiny.

Sonata set her empty plate on Rarity’s coffee table and curled up on Rarity’s comfortable sofa once again. Despite the golden afternoon sun that streamed through the windows, she rubbed her arms to stave off nearly continual chills. She pulled the warm blanket over her legs and picked up the heavy Aquastrian tome.

Her blue-streaked ponytail extended almost all the way to the floor as she pillowed her head on the arm of the sofa. Sonata said to herself, “Reading this is the only way I can keep my mind off what they’re all doing! Saying goodbye to Aria was so tough!” She carefully opened the ancient book. “So, where was I? Oh, that’s right. I was about to start ‘Part III: The Sudden Fall of Imperial Aquastria.’ Wait, why is there a picture of Discord on the bookmark?”

She removed a gray ribbon from the book, which had a cartoonish picture of the Spirit of Chaos printed on it. One red eye was closed in a conspiratorial wink, and his sarcastic smile seemed wider than usual.

Sonata started to read aloud. “Just as Queen Blinding Dazzle was about to secure victory over the surface Equestrians during the Battle of the Crystal Glacier, the Sirens suddenly disappeared…” Her voice fell silent as she once more became captivated by events that occurred in her undersea home more than a thousand years ago.

Sunset gazed at the last reddish rays of daylight as they disappeared beneath the waves of Lake Piebald. Behind her, over the wilderness that dominated the lakeshore, twinkling stars began to appear in the eastern sky. She closed her eyes and let the light breeze coming off of the cool water ruffle her hair and raise goosebumps on her skin. She raised her right hand to touch the comforting, metallic weight of the Element of Redemption around her neck.

Jumping with surprise, she was jolted back to reality by a loud pop from the rapidly growing campfire. Sunset picked up a thin hooded sweatshirt from the nearby rocks, donned it, and then added her familiar leather jacket to complete the ensemble.

“Okay sugar cube, you have to put the big sticks in the fire and make the whole thing look like a pyramid,” said Applejack, instructing Rarity on how to assist her.

Rarity, holding a single piece of wood about three feet long, edged away from the fire and nervously said, “Perhaps gathering rocks wasn’t such a bad idea after all. It would be such a shame to spoil my marvelous complexion with burns.”

Placing the last rock in the second circle surrounding the campfire, Fluttershy wiped her hands on her jeans, and grinned pleasantly at Rarity. “I think we’re all set here. Rainbow Dash could use some help unloading the van, if it’s not too much trouble.”

“I’m fine, but I’m wondering why we paid for a campsite here when it’s deserted! It’s way too early in the season for anyone to be here,” Rainbow Dash complained, carefully laying Discord’s backpack next to the collection of weapons on the ground.

Wiping her brow with the back of her forearm, Applejack replied, “We have to start out totally above board, or they’ll watch us like a hawk and then Adagio wins.”

Pinkie dumped her large load of firewood next to Applejack. She shook stray leaves and twigs out of her poofy pink curls. “Rares, I have the perfect job for you! Convince that guy that we’re here for the rest of the night and make him leave us alone!” She pointed to a tall, slender man wearing a broad-brimmed hat who stood next to a rugged four-wheel drive vehicle parked about a hundred yards away.

“I’d much rather misdirect the ranger than dig for rocks or pick up firewood!” Rarity winked at Pinkie. “Thank you, darling.” She swayed her hips as she approached the sports utility vehicle.

Hearing Pinkie’s giggle and witnessing the group working so well together, Sunset smiled and strode purposefully towards where the Apple Family’s truck, Pinkie’s Coltswagen and Fluttershy’s van were parked next to three medium-sized dome tents.

For the past half-hour, Discord and Aria had appropriated the campsite’s picnic table. They were deep in conversation, pointing at various locations on a large map of the national park surrounding Lake Piebald. As Sunset approached, Aria crossed her arms over her chest and Discord gestured with both hands in exasperation.

“I don’t like it, Discord. Adagio would want to stay hidden. I say we head for Bridal Cave up here. It’s about two miles away, and there’s no easy path to get there once we leave the battlefield. The terrain practically begs for privacy,” said Aria, impatiently pressing her case.

The Spirit of Chaos waved his hands in front of him and shook his head. “No way, Handlebars. Raven and her ego love to make everything into a grand production. She’ll plunk herself in the center of the tourist area. We need to go to the Crystal Cavern.”

Sunset intervened before Aria’s temper boiled over. “Either way, we’ll have to cross the old battlefield to avoid the ranger station. Even if they’re more customer service than law enforcement, we can’t let them see us carrying all our gear. Once we get here,” she pointed at a junction of two paths at the edge of the battlefield, “we can make our choice.”

Shrugging her shoulders and rubbing her temples, Aria said, “I wish I had more information to give you, Sunset. I texted Adagio to let her know I was here at the lake, but there’s been no answer. Maybe she’s somewhere that doesn’t have any signal. Until she replies, I’ll just have to support your plan.”

“A prudent choice, Sunset." Discord agreed in a serious voice, in stark contrast with his mismatched woodland, desert and urban camouflage. He tapped a rectangular shaped parcel of land next to the battlefield. “Of course, I'm most worried about this obstacle. The Lake Piebald National Cemetery is a grave danger for us, and I assure you that the pun is intentional. Raven will certainly use it as a resource. The only question is how strong her powers have become here in this world.”

Aria’s frown deepened. “Why are we even bothering with the banshee? Our first priority has to be stopping Adagio from hurting the girls and waking my former Master.”

The flashlight in Discord’s hand morphed into a wooden stake, which he used to tap the map once more. He groaned, “It must be part of my probation to have to explain things so simply to those that should know better! Aria, we can’t save them if we can’t get to them! We’ve been over this! If Shrieking Raven can leverage Equestrian magic to absorb more necromantic power, she’ll become a juggernaut of death. We have to neutralize her first.”

Pigtails whipping about as she shook her head violently, Aria growled, “I know you’re being very practical, but I can’t agree with this.”

“That’s enough,” said Sunset calmly, stepping between the two tacticians. “I won’t abandon Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle to die, even if it means splitting our group. It’s all I can do to keep Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Rarity from sprinting out into the wilderness right now.”

Fluttershy’s pin took flight from Discord’s right collar, and his eyes followed it as it attached itself above his left breast pocket. He looked intently at Sunset and warned, “Dividing the unified Elements of Harmony into separate components is a major risk. As a matter of fact, it was my primary goal not so long ago, when I was fighting against your four-legged counterparts.”

Rarity, her conversation with the park ranger having reached a successful conclusion, wandered over to the picnic table to eavesdrop on Sunset, Aria and Discord’s planning.

Sunset tossed a half-dollar into the air, punctuating her explanation. “What’s even more risky is chancing those three girls’ lives on a coin toss. Twice, the Power of Harmony has come to the rescue. Despite the abilities my Element has granted me, I can’t rely on that power to obediently appear at the proper moment.”

Squeezing between Aria and Discord, Rarity broke into the conversation. “Darling, with all that magic at your disposal, surely you can channel that power just like Twilight did,” she said confidently.

“Rarity, while I appreciate your confidence in me, you’re missing the point. I need to give us the best chance of success. I have no idea if I can substitute for Twilight, and even if I could, I don’t know how to call upon the Power of Harmony. I can’t let what happened in the CHS gym last week happen in this situation,” said Sunset, adding an emotional sweep of her right arm.

Aria chuckled. “Yeah, the six of you standing in the center of the gym, holding hands and hoping we’d be blasted by your Orbital Friendship Cannon was pretty hilarious.” She added a wry smile. “No offense.”

“None taken,” grumbled Rarity.

Laying the wooden stake on the map, Discord changed it back into a flashlight. “Fine, I’ll agree to defer this decision. There’s something chaotically brilliant about making it up as you go. Besides, I’m along for the ride no matter what you decide, Sunset. But, our companions are done waiting for us to make up our minds.”

“Correct, Discord. We’ll choose a path once we make it across the battlefield,” said Sunset. Her jaw set with determination. Brushing a stray lock of hair out of her face, she loudly added, “Grab a snack and sit down, everyone. We’ll talk this through one last time.”

Sunset quickly guided Discord, Aria, Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash through the initial plan, noting key landmarks on the large map. Twilight gave way to full darkness as the group listened attentively. They munched on snacks and, at Aria’s recommendation, tied each others’ hair into ponytails or braids.

The briefing was nearly complete when Pinkie, who had used a black bandana to somewhat confine her curls, couldn’t contain her curiosity any longer. She interrupted Sunset to ask, “Aria, why aren’t you doing something with your pigtails?”

“Because someone has to be the badass, and aside from Discord, I’m the only one of us who has ever fought in a battle before!” Aria pointed at Rainbow Dash before she could protest. “The Battle of the Bands doesn’t count. Neither does anything sports, music, or skateboarding-related.”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and sighed. “Fine, Aria. But, I’ll only give in this time because you kicked my butt in the barn. With a little experience, I’m sure I’ll be even more awesome with my staff than you are with Chainbreaker!” She grinned broadly.

“Ladies, as much as I enjoy this delightful back-and-forth, I believe we need to start moving.” The laughter gave way to attentive silence. Discord snapped his fingers and was immediately wearing his backpack, with the knife given to him by Applejack held in a sheath at his hip. He announced, “I’m ready to go! While you slowpokes get your stuff on, I’d like to give you some important knowledge about the varieties of living dead.”

“Oh dear!” exclaimed Fluttershy in her soft voice. She placed her composite bow over her right shoulder and fumbled with the straps on her belt quiver. “I’m not so sure I want to hear about this, Discord.”

Chuckling, the Spirit of Chaos said, “With that braid, Fluttershy, you look almost like Birgitte Silverbow! I know you’ll have the courage to match. Listen, everyone. I’m sure you’d rather get at least a little advance warning about what we are likely to face.”

“We’re all ears, Discord.” Sunset Shimmer slipped on her bandolier, now stuffed full of spell components from Equestria, and listened attentively along with the others.

Pinkie laughed brightly. “Well, our pony ears haven’t appeared yet, but you get the idea!”

“This isn’t much of a primer, ladies, but it must serve. Skeletons and zombies are the lowest forms of undead. They feel no pain, never get tired and don’t breathe, so you have to destroy enough of their bodies to cause the necromantic magic to collapse,” Discord performed a stage fall, landing harmlessly on his side.

Rarity turned even paler than seemed possible. “Darling, did you just insinuate that those are the easiest monsters to dispatch?”

The Spirit of Chaos stood and snapped his fingers. Rarity’s club appeared in her hand, the sudden weight shift nearly upsetting her balance. “That’s why Aria was so wise to tell you that a fencing weapon is so useless,” Discord explained. “That brass club, on the other hand, will do wonders against a skeleton.”

Attaching her lariat to her belt, Applejack teased Rarity. “See, that roll in the dirt did you some good after all, sugar cube.”

“Raven will likely be able to produce a few pestilential undead. Among these are ghasts and ghouls. A wound from them can paralyze or sicken you, ensuring that you become the creature’s next meal. While it’s painfully obvious advice, just don’t get hit by a festering undead. Gang up on these vile creatures and destroy them quickly,” said Discord, who stood at the center of a cloud of stinking green gas.

“Yuck! That reminds me of what you did to Rarity’s bathroom this morning!” Rainbow Dash stuck her tongue out of the side of her mouth in comically exaggerated disgust.

Discord waved away the foul-smelling cloud, ignored Rainbow Dash’s insult and continued. “I certainly hope that we don’t encounter any non-corporeal undead, like a wraith.”

Her attention captured, Aria stepped forward. Chainbreaker, glowing dimly, was strapped across her back. “You mean an undead monster that doesn’t really have a body, right?”

“Exactly. Shades, ghosts, shadows and wraiths are all forms of spirits that have been ripped from someone or conjured in one way or another. The point is that if we see any of those creatures, we are in serious trouble, because Raven is either using powerful magic items or has become potent enough to kill us with her scream. Here’s the safety tip: If you can see through any of the undead, then only Sunset, Aria and myself can properly deal with them.”

Sunset pulled the hood of her thin sweatshirt over her head and asked, “What spells are most effective against a creature like that, Discord?”

“Fire and lightning are all right, but magic projectiles are my personal favorite.” A ball of purple energy flew forth from his hand and flew into the lake, creating a small hiss of steam. “But, ignore my amusement, because nothing works better than radiant magic to sizzle these types of undead, Miss Baconhair!”

Sunset stepped into the center of the circle of companions. She looked at each of the faces of her seven friends. All of them were dressed in rugged clothing that ensured freedom of movement, with some limited, completely expected adjustments for personal taste. For example, Rarity’s jeans were a bit too expensive and a smidge too tight, Rainbow Dash’s outfit had too many splashes of color to be truly stealthy, and Aria’s clinging bodysuit left her muscular shoulders and arms bare, despite the spring night’s chill.

Sunset nodded to the Spirit of Chaos. “We’re as ready as we can be, Discord.” Turning to address the entire group, she declared, “I gave you all of my feelings last night, so there’s not much more to say. So instead, before we move out, I’ll give you some protection against what we’ll face!” Concentrating, she retrieved a large pearl from her bandolier and crushed it in her fist. The Element of Redemption glowed, along with the hand holding the fragments of the pearl. A green-blue aura enveloped each of them, and then winked out.

“That pearl must have been worth two thousand dollars! It’s a pity you had to destroy it, because it would have looked perfectly divine in a brooch or necklace,” moaned Rarity.

Pinkie Pie gestured with her handaxe and jumped up and down. “It feels like I’m wrapped in a warm blanket! What a perfect spell for a cold night!”

“What did your magic do to us, Sunny?” asked Fluttershy.

Discord answered for her, “It’s a long-lasting enchantment protecting us from evil.” Turning to Sunset, he added, “I know who taught you that spell, and she would be very proud of you. Thank you, because I know it’s going to be a long night.”

“Let’s cut the sentiment short, Discord, but I’m glad you appreciate my handiwork.” She smiled and loudly added, “Okay, Aria, you’re on point!”

The pale glow of Chainbreaker, stowed on Aria’s back, led the way. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, Applejack, Discord, Fluttershy, and Rarity followed. The eerie glow of the Element of Redemption around Sunset’s neck brought up the rear, as they left the campsite and headed out into the dark expanse of the Lake Piebald battlefield.

After a half-hour hike, the campground’s light forest gave way to occasional trees as the well-maintained path looped towards the battlefield. In the distance, they saw meticulously reconstructed redoubts from the original battle, covered in lush green turf that towered fifteen feet into the air. The outer walls of each earthwork bristled with tree trunks sharpened to a point. Overhead, the thick crescent moon dimly illuminated the expanse of open ground.

“Our resident egghead didn’t make this trip,” began Rainbow Dash curiously, “so can anyone remind me what happened here?”

Rarity sighed and rolled her eyes. She patiently explained, “More than two hundred years ago, this is the site where the last battle of the War Between the City-States was fought, unifying Cloudsdale, Ponyville, Canterlot and Baltimare into a single nation.”

“I thought you were awake for this one, sugar cube!” teased Applejack. “The Prench Admiral, Blue Mizzen, trapped the Cloudsdale army here with his fleet, while the allied Canterlot and Ponyville army under the command of General Cherry Chop attacked from the land.”

Pulling her hood back and fluffing her hair over the shoulders of her leather jacket, Sunset raised an eyebrow and asked, “I’m embarrassed to ask, but this country is made up of four separate city-states?”

“Were you sleeping through history class, too? Well, now it’s eight, but you’re missing the point!” said Pinkie Pie, ebulliently skipping down the path.

Fluttershy removed her bow from her back and carried it in her hands. She softly added, “The Cloudsdale army didn’t expect to lose control of the sea, and after a long siege, Lord Cornflower was forced to surrender over where the ranger station is now.”

“Thanks for the history lesson, I think. In school, they lost me when they talked about liberty and the constitution and stuff. Why didn’t they talk about the battle? I would have been all into that!” Rainbow Dash complained emphatically, using her staff as a walking stick.

They departed the path and began walking diagonally across the battlefield to the point where the group would finally decide upon a destination. As they stepped onto the grass, they heard a distant rumble, and a dark green flash momentarily lit the sky. The girls huddled together, with Discord standing slightly apart. He lifted his chin and sniffed the air like a bloodhound.

Gesturing towards the nearest redoubt, Aria put a finger to her lips. She stage-whispered, “Something’s wrong. Can you feel it? We need to get up on the high ground.”

Sunset nodded her agreement. “That flash came from the direction of the cemetery. Ready your weapons, everyone.” She quickly took inventory of the spell components secured in her bandolier, double-checking her count of the alicorn feathers.

A ball of light floated from Discord’s finger and drifted towards the next redoubt, about two hundred yards away. This fortification, a twenty-foot tall ridge of earth and sharpened sticks, was larger than the first. According to the map, it was constructed to protect an artillery battery.

A helmet with wings attached to each side suddenly covered his wild brown hair. “Don’t stop here, ladies! I can smell Raven’s magic in the air, but it’s still weak. We must keep moving and make as much progress as we can before its strength builds!” The wings flapped wildly as he jogged towards the next man-made earthwork, his backpack bouncing up and down.

The seven girls stood looking at one another in confusion, when they were jolted back to the present by a soft, high-pitched whine coming from Aria’s back. Chainbreaker, sensing enemies, glowed more brightly than the moment it had come to life. Aria detached the weapon from her pack and held it defensively in both hands.

“That noise coming from your mace sounds like my cousin’s lumber mill!” exclaimed Applejack, who crowded in closely to look at Chainbreaker. Her awestruck face was illuminated by the weapon’s magical light.

Sunset pointed towards Discord, who gestured wildly for them to follow him to the second redoubt. “He’s insane, but he’s got the right idea. We have to keep moving. I’ll give you a little help!”

She took a bear’s claw out of one of the bandolier’s many pockets and placed it in both her palms. The amulet and her hands glowed with an aquatic aura as Sunset concentrated on her spell. The claw evaporated into mist as a wave of energy invigorated the young women. They trotted towards Discord, who had resumed his jog across the battlefield.

“Please, oh please let me use your spell during a soccer game!” panted Rainbow Dash.

Rarity, huffing and puffing as she ran, rolled her eyes. “I think you’re putting the cart before the horse, Rainbow Dash. No offense, Sunset.”

“Yeah, we have to live through this night first!” Pinkie Pie giggled as she skipped as quickly as Rarity ran.

They covered the distance without incident and climbed to the top of the redoubt. Discord was standing at the barrier’s highest point, with his arms folded grimly and a long plaid cape streaming out behind him in the breeze. He pointed a gloved hand towards the graveyard.

“Damn her! It’s been nearly eleven hundred years, and it’s like déjà vu all over again,” fumed Discord. “The dead walk, and they’re headed this way.” He turned to Fluttershy, and his frown eased into concern. “Please, let me work on your arrows.”

Fluttershy flipped her pink braid off of her shoulder and looked up at the Spirit of Chaos with admiring teal eyes. “Of course, Discord!”

A golden glow enveloped the Spirit of Chaos’ hands and the quiver full of arrows at Fluttershy’s belt. The hunting and target shooting arrows changed into a motley assortment that appeared to be unable to fly, except for a half-dozen slender missiles that shone with a brilliant white light.

“My dear, stand next to me up here, and shoot only when you’re sure of your target. You will know what each type of arrow does when you touch it. But only use the radiant arrows in an emergency. They are extremely powerful, but I don’t have the credentials or raw strength to make any more of them,” he instructed, patting Fluttershy’s shoulder.

Aria, her eyes glowing violet in the darkness, joined Sunset in positioning the the group in a line atop the redoubt. They looked to the east, the direction that they needed to go to reach the caves, and saw a bright green haze expanding across the cemetery.

Aria asked, “Sunset, do you think we can we make a run for the next redoubt? It’s only about a hundred and fifty yards.”

“Let’s find out!” Sunset conjured a ball of light and tossed it into the air. It illuminated a circle about fifty yards across.

Applejack frowned in disgust and gripped her sickle. “Well, I reckon we have some business before we can try to sprint over to the next high ground.”

A half-dozen figures walked unevenly towards the redoubt. They wore fragments of clothing from over two hundred years ago, and two of the six carried ancient, rusting cavalry swords. As they stepped into the circle of illumination, it was obvious that there was little or no flesh on the bones that shambled towards the living souls atop the fortification.

“Skeletons!” shouted Rainbow Dash, who sprinted down the redoubt, twirling her staff.

Aria chased after the brash athlete, shouting, “Dammit, Rainbow Dash, you can’t take on six of them by yourself!” Applejack and Pinkie Pie followed close behind Aria, who added, “Remember, they’re not alive. Don’t hesitate. They’re walking piles of bones that want to kill you, so take them out before they do the same to you!”

Discord snapped his fingers and a huge anvil winked into existence over one of the skeletons, crushing it into fragments. He winked at Fluttershy and said, “Make that five. Now it’s your turn!”

As Rainbow Dash closed the distance to the group of skeletons, Fluttershy nocked an arrow with a blunt, square tip. Carefully controlling her breathing, she loosed the arrow, which struck a skeleton on its shoulder, knocking its arm off. “I did it!” she cried with excitement.

“Great work, Fluttershy! Direct hit at forty yards!” cried Sunset proudly. She turned to her left. “Rarity, your job is to protect me and Discord from anything that will distract our spellcasting,” ordered Sunset, gripping the fashion designer by a white forearm and pulling her away from Fluttershy’s field of fire.

Rarity smiled warmly at Sunset while she tested the weight of her brass club. “Hmph! That sounds like an easy job, because our amazing friends seem to have this all under control.”

Rainbow Dash had reached the remaining skeletons and was wildly spinning her staff. While she successfully kept them from scoring any hits on her, she was unable to go on offense, until Aria led the supporting charge with Chainbreaker spinning a dangerous circle in her right hand. Pigtails twirling, she deftly parried a clumsy attack from a tall skeleton with a sword, then delivered a punishing counterstroke. As the glowing mace impacted the monster’s skull, the entire skeleton turned to dust in a burst of white light.

“That was so awesome!” yelled Rainbow Dash, as she used her staff to knock down two of the remaining four skeletons, who tried in vain to attack her with their fists.

A powerful slice from Applejack’s sickle bisected a third skeleton, which fell harmlessly to the ground. Awestruck, she glanced at Aria and said, “Chainbreaker’s worth every minute of lost sleep at the forge! Pinkie, finish off that one – it only has one arm thanks to Fluttershy.”

“Okie!” Pinkie’s hatchet chopped through the skeleton’s brittle spine. “Dokie!” Then, she struck off the monster’s other arm. “Lokie!” A final blow to the head caused Pinkie’s opponent to crumple.

Chainbreaker disintegrated the other skeleton carrying a sword and Rainbow Dash dispatched the last creature with repeated strikes from both ends of her staff.

Applejack cleaned her sickle on the grass and chuckled. “That wasn’t such a chore, now was it?”

Aria’s violet eyes narrowed as she lowered Chainbreaker’s head to rest against the turf. “It’s only just beginning, girls.” She smiled at each of them in turn. “But good work, even though someone ran off into battle without thinking!”

Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to deliver a sarcastic reply when they heard Sunset’s commanding voice from atop the redoubt.

“Get up here! Now!”

As they reassembled their defensive line atop the earthwork, Sunset produced another three balls of light. The additional illumination revealed about thirty skeletons emerging from the tree line, followed by a dozen slow-moving, fleshy figures that inexorably moved towards the redoubt. As the young women fought down their fear and prepared themselves for the next stage of the battle, the Spirit of Chaos threw his head back and laughed.

“I told you it was going to be a long night!”

*****

The general designs for Bridal Cave were inspired by the caverns on South Bass Island, Ohio. The island is the site of many pleasant memories (and a few hazy ones), and as improbable as it may seem, the crystals inside those caves are actually called “celestite”.

Lake Piebald’s battlefield and the history surrounding it are loosely based upon the national park and battlefield at Yorktown, Virginia.

Author's Note

The battle is joined, but many questions remain. Since this is my longest chapter to date, I will keep my author comments very short! Thanks for taking the time to read the latest update to Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer.

If you get a chance, I hope that you find the time to write a comment or simply thank the wonderful individuals that help me bring a new chapter to you every two weeks or so. Their commitment, creative tension and laughter make the rough patches smoother and the good times even more rewarding.

To each and every one of you: I appreciate your steadfast support for this story more than you could ever know. Thank you very much!

Chapter Twenty-Two

“Sonata, are you alright?” asked a concerned feminine voice.

With all of the concentration she could muster channeled towards the huge book in her lap, Sonata mumbled something incoherent, then finished with a dismissive gesture from her blue-tinted hand.

Elegant Ensemble entered the room and waved a hand between the Siren’s lilac-hued eyes and the volume containing Aquastria’s history. “Hey, you’re not going to get rid of me that easily. Stand up. Stretch. Enjoy some leftovers. Use the restroom. Do something!”

“I appreciate your concern, and you’ve been so kind to me since the others left, but please let me finish. This is important!” She finally broke her gaze from the pages and looked back at Elegant, her scowl softening into a pleading expression.

She shook her waves of blonde hair in exasperation. “You’re worrying me a bit. Since the group departed, the only muscles you’ve moved are the ones that took you from lying on the couch to sitting at attention on the couch.” Elegant squeezed Sonata’s shoulder and said, “Just take a five minute break, Sonata. That’s all I ask. For heaven’s sake, I haven’t seen anyone so wrapped up in a book since Scootaloo gave Sweetie Belle that cheesy vampire paperback.”

“Fine,” Sonata grumbled good-naturedly. She marked her place with the gray ribbon and set the book on the coffee table. She braced herself on the arm of the comfortable couch and stood unsteadily. Elegant smiled as Sonata flung her arms above her head and groaned in a comically exaggerated stretch that worked every muscle from her forehead to her toes. She pulled her T-shirt back down over her navel, cracked her knuckles, winked at Elegant and left Rarity’s den.

Sonata walked down the hall to Sweetie Belle’s bathroom, where she had first hatched her ill-fated plan to claim Big Macintosh for her own. After attending to more urgent needs, she ran some cold water from the tap and splashed her face, forgetting about the gauze protecting Aria’s needlework. Frowning, Sonata rummaged through the vanity and the medicine cabinet, seeking a first aid kit.

As she moved Sweetie Belle’s toiletries and beauty supplies aside in the futile search, Sonata felt a lump growing in her throat as she said, “Oh Sunset, I hope you can lead Aria and the rest to bring those girls back safely. The vision of one silent bedroom was terrible enough. The thought of three…” She trailed off and gazed at herself it the mirror.

This is the price you have to pay for breaking their trust. Read the book and try to take your mind off of it, she sternly and silently told herself while drying her face.

Sonata returned to the den to find a steaming mug of tea waiting on the coffee table sitting between the Aquastrian history book and Sunset’s journal. The corners of her lips lifted in a grateful smile as she read Elegant’s exquisitely-penned note:

This blend always helps me concentrate. I’ll continue to bother you until you tell me what’s on your mind. Remember, I’ve had to look after both Rarity and Sweetie Belle for nearly three years, so I know all about stubborn.

Staring intently at the hefty repository of knowledge, Sonata sat in the center of the couch. As she reached down to lift the book and resume her reading, she noticed that the bookmark had developed an unusual loop and now marked two spots.

“That’s funny, I thought I laid the bookmark flat between the pages.” Her curiosity piqued, she examined the gray ribbon carefully, then lifted the book and turned it over. “Aha! I knew he was up to something!”

On the bottom side of the bookmark, the cartoonish picture of Discord smiled broadly while a gray-tinted hand pointed insistently towards a new spot in the book that would skip about a hundred pages of Aquastrian history. In tiny, flickering red letters, a message read, “Sunset and I need you to read this part right away!”

Pursing her lips, Sonata took the Spirit of Chaos’ advice and opened the book to a section entitled “The Hall of Freedom.” As she did, the bookmark returned to its original appearance, except that Discord’s picture had ceased its winking and now gave Sonata a pleased thumbs-up.

Sonata took a sip of the tea Elegant had prepared. Her eyes widened with pleased surprise, and she took a bigger sip of the steaming beverage. After swallowing, she rested her back on the sofa and read aloud, “Following the Sirens’ defeat and disappearance in the world above, several incredible coincidences combined to alter the destiny of all Aquastrians….”

Lapsing into silence, Sonata read a brief summary of the time immediately following her banishment and learned of the escalating unrest in the capital. The narrative was gearing up to describe the leader of a slave revolt, and as she read the vague, yet grandiose description, Sonata found herself thinking, Oh, get on with it already.

She turned a page and found an illustration of a larger-than-life statue of a merstallion placed in the center of a large, impeccably maintained plaza. The merstallion was sculpted in the prime of his life, with sapphire blue scales, gray eyes, and translucent blue fins with silver streaks. At the base of the statue were scores of broken iron collars. His muzzle smiled crookedly, almost as if he was embarrassed to strike such a heroic pose. Sonata’s eyes widened as recognition dawned in her mind.

“It can’t be….” Sonata whispered in disbelief. She looked at the picture closely, and then traced it with her fingers. At last, her mouth fell open and tears came to her eyes. “Coral Aegis! Oh, my brother! You lived!” she cried, her quavering voice joyful and relieved. Her happiness and guilt, along with her entire being, was absorbed in the moments captured in the book on her lap.

Leveraging her formidable skill as an accomplished actress, Sonata envisioned herself as a spectator to the grand event unfolding in her mind.

*****
Four Years After the Fall of Imperial Aquastria

The colorful throng of sea creatures continued to gather around the elevated platform where their beloved Chancellor, their Great Liberator, was going to speak to all of Aquastria. He and the Assembly were united in their insistence that every sapient creature that crawled, swam or skittered throughout the entire realm would be welcome to attend.

As the crowd gathered, males and females mingled harmoniously, and freed seaponies swam alongside graceful, aloof mermares who viewed the proceedings with mixed wonder and fear. An occasional narwhal would float by, gawking at the unfamiliar beauty of the newly reconstructed capital. Phosphorescent spheres lit the undersea plain, and magical loudspeakers had been placed at regular intervals to ensure that all could listen as the Chancellor dedicated the newly constructed symphony hall.

A smiling seapony with purple scales was floated into place on the dais by a merstallion and a seapony. Because her tail had been amputated just above its spiral, she couldn’t float well, and was forced to use a comfortable divan to remain in front of the microphone. The crowd roared its approval as Assemblypony Lavender Hope waved a fin.

Lavender cleared her throat, and a high pitched squeal of feedback caused the spectators to wince. She chuckled, wrapped her fin around the microphone stand and asked, “Can you hear me now?”

Laughter mingled with affirmative replies and continued cheering. From Lavender’s perspective, the tens of thousands of Aquastrians formed a kaleidoscope of color that radiated goodwill and hope as far as her eyes could see. The cheering went on and on.

The seapony held both fins high in an attempt to quiet the crowd. “I can float up here all day, and even tell a few jokes, but I’m not the one you’re here to see! I appreciate your enthusiasm, my fellow Aquastrians, but if you want me to get on with this show, I ask that you give me a little quiet.” Lavender’s irrepressible smile softened the cheers to murmurs, and then finally to silence.

The Assemblypony nodded. “Now, that’s more like it!” The spectators politely laughed again. “As you all know, today marks the fourth anniversary of our freedom from the horrors of The Great Betrayer and his pet queen. At last, we have rebuilt our city into a place where all Aquastrians can determine their own destinies. Each of us has our own story to tell about the Liberation, but I will tell you the one I am most proud of. I promise that it will be a very short tale!”

The crowd roared to life once more: in laughter, in anticipation, and in sympathy of the injury Lavender Hope had suffered during the uprising.

“Our Great Liberator was born into the very bottom of Imperial society. While he will selflessly admit that he was more fortunate than seaponies, like me, who were bred into bondage, he had very little to look forward to as a mercolt. But, he did have one thing that not even Her Majesty could take away completely: He had the love of his mother and his father, which was a rarity in Aquastria until just a tiny number of years ago.” Lavender gestured to the front row, where a merstallion and mermare adoringly held a foal.

As she continued her story, the seapony’s voice slowly morphed from admiration to fury. “The Chancellor’s twin sister was taken from him, like my children were taken from me, and your loved ones were taken from you – by murder or enslavement. They were stolen to serve a dark power against their will.”

She leaned her head forward and whispered into the microphone. “But, he waited. He bided his time when so many others would have made a rash move. The Chancellor grew into a strong merstallion. He curried favor with the clans and sought ways to undo the terrible dark magic that had transformed his twin. He wanted to bring her back, which would give us the courage to stop the Queen from offering any other Aquastrians as tribute ever again.” Despite the press of beings surrounding the dais, there wasn’t so much as a stray ripple moving through the water.

“After the Sirens disappeared and the Temple’s power waned, he saw his chance. At the recommendation of members of the royal guard, he was granted an audience with the Leashed Queen”—Lavender spat the derisive name—“and demonstrated his design for a mining engine to provide materiel for the war against the surfacers. Fortunately for all of us, the Queen was so blinded by her bloodlust and so befuddled by He Who Swims In Darkness’ disappearance, that she granted his boon.”

The Assemblypony’s smile returned, and she spread her fins wide. “You all know the rest. His mining engine was never intended to harvest ore from the seafloor. He broke the walls of my prison and armed us. We attacked the palace, and despite appalling loss of life, the Chancellor in his righteous fury led us in defeating the priestesses and the royal guard.”

The crowd began to babble excitedly, as the summarized story neared its conclusion.

“He slew the Queen in a vicious combat that nearly made a martyr of him. After his victory, he didn’t pause for a moment. His blood oozing out into the water, the Chancellor used his mining engine to uproot the foundation of the Great Betrayer’s temple.” Lavender’s voice trembled as her oratory made a determined crescendo. She gripped the microphone stand with both fins. “Once the cursed black marble was cast into the trench for all eternity, all of Aquastria’s citizens were freed. We cleansed the seafloor together, and began construction on a place where music and unity will forever cast out slavery and division. We now have our glorious Hall of Freedom!”

Exploding with cheers, the gathered masses expressed their joy and gratitude. Lavender Hope spread her fins again, requesting quiet, but Aquastria’s patience had been exhausted. The roar echoed through the deep for a full three minutes before subsiding.

Eyes beaming and purple scales glittering in the dazzling spotlight, the Assemblypony gestured for her two attendants to carry her away from the microphone. As the burly merstallion and strong seapony prepared to lift the divan, she looked at the crowd and intoned, “Citizens of Aquastria, I give you my dear friend. He bears many names that we have given him: He is the Breaker of Collars, the Great Liberator, and our first duly-elected Chancellor. But, as I know well, he prefers to be known by the name his parents gave him. Help me greet him!”

The throng shouted as one. “Coral Aegis!”

A sleek merstallion swam into view and folded Lavender Hope in a gentle embrace. The two shared whispers while the crowd chanted Coral’s name. True to his mother’s prescience, he had grown into a handsome, strong merstallion. Coral Aegis’ scales were a deep sapphire-blue, his translucent fins were streaked with silver, and he bore a wicked, jagged scar that ran the length of his left side.

He looked down at the seapony he had befriended with soft and sad gray eyes, nodded once, and approached the microphone. The chanting was drowned out by another thunderous ovation.

Coral Aegis held up one fin and tapped the microphone with the tip of the other in an attempt to quiet the crowd. Amusement and gratitude filled the gray eyes as he looked to Lavender for assistance. She spread her fins helplessly and laughed. At last, the crowd fell silent, but the energy in the surrounding waters was supercharged with anticipation.

“My friends, I never thought in all my life that I would be speaking to you on such a happy day!” said Coral. He smiled at the crowd, who leapt at the chance to cheer their hero. “Four years ago, we emancipated our fellow Aquastrians, disbanded the cruel Imperial society and began to cleanse our home of the Great Betrayer’s murderous religion! While I know that there are many who are uncomfortable with the chaos of our new order, I think we can all celebrate that freedom is infinitely preferable to slavery.”

The Chancellor’s eyes took on a faraway look, gazing beyond the crowd, and he spoke earnestly into the microphone in a deep, sonorous voice. “Today, we rejoice in our independence! Like you, I revel in our victory and eagerly anticipate tonight’s concert. Before I open our new Hall of Freedom, I ask you to do me a personal favor: Remember Sonata Dusk with me. My twin sister is still missing, and it’s her song I wished to hear tonight. Celebrate, remember the sacrifice of our loved ones, and always keep in mind that our hard-earned liberty is fragile.”

The Chancellor paused to collect himself. Silence, punctuated by sniffles, filled the pause as the audience leaned forward. Coral raised a blue-streaked fin as he softly continued. “Every day, I am inspired by the courage of my sister. I remember the day my mother dressed her to be offered as a sacrifice, and all she could speak of was her excitement to meet the Queen and Princess. Without hesitation, my brave twin swam towards the Trench Gate and her own doom, never knowing that she was protecting her family by doing so. Her sacrifice saved my life.”

“But”—His gray eyes grew stormy and his voice increased in volume, filling the undersea plain—“the thought of Sonata, of half of me torn away and twisted into a manipulative monster that sowed strife, filled me with cold rage. The knowledge that her beautiful voice seduced and destroyed others instead of inspiring them haunted my nightmares.” His eyes dropped to the stage for a moment.

He shared his memory with Aquastria, unifying his nation through the story of his loss. “While Sonata fought the war in the dry world above, I used my unique talents to get close to the Queen, and as I finally began my apprenticeship in the palace, I learned that my beloved sister had disappeared during the Battle of the Crystal Glacier. Our mother couldn’t bear the awful news, and like so many of you, I was left alone in the darkness.” Coral’s fins shook, forcing him to grip the microphone more tightly.

“I despaired, and thinking I had failed, nearly revealed myself to the Queen. But then, Captain Focused Blaze let me know that I was not alone in my dreams for a better life. She, not unlike me, hoped to see her daughter, Aria Blaze, once more. I then thought not just of myself, or even of Sonata. I realized that this whole realm suffered under the Black Trident and the Whip of Dominion. And it had to be stopped!” The Chancellor shouted his last sentence, punctuating each word.

Individual cheers broke out and were quickly shushed by their neighbors, who were enthralled by Coral’s storytelling.

He continued conversationally, “You know the next part, my friends: The guardsmare facilitated my audience with the Queen. I demonstrated my mechanical skills, built the mining engine and waited for my chance. Her Majesty had unwittingly provided me the means to destroy her. But the whole time, I thought of my twin and where she might be found. Her courage kept me moving forward, and memories of our time together reminded me that we couldn’t earn our freedom alone. Sadly, freedom demanded we pay a terrible price.”

Gripping the handle of a reel with his fin, he began to turn it methodically, taking the slack out of a wire that connected itself to a curtain concealing the gate to the Hall of Freedom. Coral’s eyes softened once more as he turned the crank. “Our uprising was balanced on the point of a spear after we breached the outer wall but couldn’t enter the throne room. The darkness gathered over our heads and we knew death was near.”

The wire pulled the curtain free of the gate, and the crowd gasped at the golden arch and silver gate that led the way to the symphony hall.

“Captain Blaze sacrificed her life to open the palace gate, and my dear friend, Lavender Hope, earned her new name when she wedged herself between the doors to permit our entry to the throne room.” Coral smiled at the maimed Assemblypony who respectfully nodded her acknowledgement. “They both gave us the chance to get to the Queen before she completed yet another dark ritual.”

The Chancellor gestured to the shining gate and declared, “All who enter the Blazing Gate shall remember the Captain’s noble sacrifice to permit us the choices we now have. Focused Blaze’s dying words to me are engraved into the gold: ‘At last, I’ve done something worthy with the life I’ve been given.’ And, so when we enter this place to celebrate, we do so humbled by the loss of those that gave their lives to grant us liberty.”

“I barely won my fight with the Queen and will bear the Black Trident’s scar for the rest of my life. Still, thanks to the One Who Guides the Waves and to all of you, we now have an Aquastria that we can be proud of!” The crowd started to cheer, but Coral held up a fin, requesting silence as he sadly glanced down at the dais once more. “But there’s one thing missing from this dedication.”

Lavender Hope said what tens of thousands of Aquastrians were thinking. “Sonata.”

Coral raised his gray eyes and smiled sadly at the seapony. He gripped the microphone in both fins, and his voice broke with emotion once more. “My sister. My twin. She’s out there somewhere, and I pray she will know how much I love her. Her bravery in facing certain death inspired me, and I know it inspired you! Though she was corrupted by dark magic, I have faith that she will break free from the shadow and I’ll see her again.” He turned a second reel and the Blazing Gate began to open.

“This Hall of Freedom is a gift to Aquastria, so that we may all be united in song with the hope that Sonata Dusk will return one day to show each and every one of us the true meaning of courage!”

Coral Aegis stepped away from the microphone and raised both fins in a gesture of victory. The throng’s emotions were released, and the joyous cheering was deafening as the first Aquastrians passed through the Blazing Gate into the Hall of Freedom.

*****
One Week After Canterlot High School’s Battle of the Bands

Sonata paced Rarity’s den as she read her brother’s speech, with enraptured tears pouring from her eyes the entire time. She then turned the page to the incredible, two-paged illustration of the first concert to be held at the Hall of Freedom. Shaking, she set the book down on the coffee table, oblivious to the sky-blue motes of magical energy spitting forth from her body.

“I miss you so much, Coral! I… I love you too!” she shouted as she realized that the concert hall’s back wall was a relief of her Aquastrian name sigil, which was the same symbol that graced the bracelet she wore. Constructed with gems, precious metals and exquisite workmanship, the Hall of Freedom was dominated by a design that consisted of a turquoise-colored eighth note with a jagged stem superimposed over a gigantic pink heart.

The magical energy burst from within her, illuminating the room and competing with the afternoon sun. Fuzzy blue pony ears appeared atop her head, and the back of Sonata’s T-shirt tore as delicate lavender wings resembling fins burst from her back. As her blue-streaked ponytail lengthened and coiled next to her on the floor, she sang a single, triumphant note that shook the windows of the Carousel Boutique.

Elegant burst into the room, and witnessed Sonata in the throes of her elation. “Sonata, what’s wrong? Are you…” her voice trailed off, and her hand went to her mouth. “My God, it’s true! There really is magic!”

Her lilac eyes reflecting the sunlight, Sonata ran to Elegant and gripped both her hands. She exclaimed, “I understand, Elegant! For the first time in my life, I see hope! Sunset was right. I am free to choose who I am!” She tightly embraced the blonde fashion designer.

“I’m not sure I understand a thing, but I’m happy for you,” said Elegant, who returned Sonata’s gleeful smile. She reached up and touched one of Sonata’s pony ears. “So, who are you, really?”

Sonata giggled as Elegant’s fingernails tickled the fuzzy protrusion. She gazed into the proprietor’s blue eyes, and replied soberly, “I am Sonata Dusk, but I’m only now learning what that truly means after a thousand years of living a lie.” Her ears, wings and extended ponytail winked out of existence. “But, we must work quickly, because our friends are in danger, and I know I can help. I just don’t know how yet.”

“If I hadn’t seen the magic and heard you sing, I’d follow my employer’s orders and keep you here until they returned. But, I feel that something big has changed.” Elegant took a step back, put her hands on her hips and asked, “Sonata, aside from a new shirt, what do you need?”

Sonata pursed her lips and tapped her stitches with a blue-tinted index finger. Her concentration, visible injuries, and bubbly demeanor made a unique emotional impression. “I need two things: First, may I please have the keys to Rarity’s car?”

“Can you drive?” asked Elegant, raising her eyebrow.

With infectious enthusiasm, Sonata answered, “Not well, but I just need to drive fast!”

“The keys are in the silverware drawer. Just don’t test out the airbags, even though I convinced Rarity of the need for a good insurance policy,” said Elegant, folding her arms across her chest. “What’s the second thing?”

Sonata grunted as she lifted both the Aquastrian history book and Sunset’s journal. She breezily said, “I need directions to Father Scorpan’s church.” Her voice grew uncharacteristically serious. “I didn’t listen to him very well the first time around, and time’s running out.”

Aria laboriously climbed atop the seventh redoubt of the battlefield’s reconstructed siege line. She wiped perspiration from her dripping forehead with the back of her hand and encouraged the rest of the group. “Come on, everyone. Just three more redoubts to go!”

“Darling, why can’t we just walk along the flat part?” asked Rarity, fanning herself with her free hand.

Rainbow Dash jogged ahead and tapped the fashionista’s back with one end of her quarterstaff. She wryly answered, “Because the last time we tried that, we ran right into a mob of zombies!”

“I’m tired too, Rarity, but we have to see where and what our enemies are in order to stay safe,” said Sunset, adjusting her bandolier while slowly scaling the earthwork.

Even Pinkie’s skipping had slowed to a brisk shuffle. She twirled her handaxe and turned to Discord. “Can’t you make any more of those chocolate milk bombs? I’m thirsty!”

He laughed, reached back and pulled a canteen out of his backpack. “I think you’ll like this better, Pinkie. It’ll take the edge off, or in your case, sharpen your ability to cleave undead skulls.” Smiling, Discord handed the container to her.

Her curls barely contained by her black bandana, Pinkie took a big swig out of Discord’s canteen. Blue eyes widened in surprise, and Pinkie coughed as she handed the container back to the Spirit of Chaos. She winked and said, “I’ll never tell if you don’t!”

“I don’t like this quiet. We wiped out about fifty of those things during the last wave, and the green glow is still coming from the graveyard,” said Applejack worriedly. She plodded steadily beside Fluttershy, warily gripping her sickle.

Her teal eyes nervously darting from one patch of darkness to another, Fluttershy had an arrow nocked as she brought up the rear of the exhausted procession. She nodded and said, “I agree, Applejack. Every time there’s a break, the next wave gets stronger.”

“You all fought incredibly well for us to get this far, and made it so that our leader can conserve her resources to the best of her ability.” Aria said approvingly as she lowered Chainbreaker’s head to the grass topping the redoubt. “Speaking of that, Sunset, how is your supply of spell components holding out?”

Reaching into one of the bandolier’s pockets, Sunset produced a foot-long pink feather. The magical amulet around her neck began to glow. She grinned and said, “Well enough that I can attempt this spell. We all could use it!”

Princess Cadance’s feather started to glimmer, contributing to the luminance surrounding Sunset’s hands and the Element. In a burst of pink light, the feather exploded into a glittering powder that soaked into the group’s skin. They looked at one another in wonder, marveling at the magic surging through each of them.

“I feel like I’ve had a full night’s sleep!” shouted Rainbow Dash. She somersaulted along the top of the redoubt and spun her quarterstaff. “Why didn’t you do this earlier, Sunset?”

The magical glow surrounding the Element of Redemption winked out. Sunset took a deep breath to recover from her magical exertion and replied, “Because I have to walk the fine line between keeping you alive and saving enough components for an emergency. Pain and fatigue are much better than being dead.”

“Come on, Dash. You know what happens in those survival horror movies when they use up all their bullets too quickly, right?” asked Applejack as she stretched her arms and legs.

Waving her hand wildly, Pinkie answered, “They try to fight the big bad guy using only a kitchen knife and a bag of popcorn!”

“I can’t see that ending well for any of us,” said Fluttershy, still scanning the tree line for movement.

Discord’s camouflage disappeared in a flash of white light and was replaced by a carnival barker’s red-and-white striped suit, complete with an outrageous straw hat. “But, wait until you can see what I can do with a bag of popcorn!” He reached into his breast pocket and extracted an enormous bag of the heavily buttered snack. As he grabbed a handful, stray kernels fell to the ground and popped like tiny firecrackers.

“Well, eat up, everyone, because I think the next wave is headed this way,” warned Aria. Her glowing purple eyes scanned the darkness, and she pointed over Fluttershy’s shoulder. “There they are. I can’t tell how many yet, but this seems like a different type of group.”

Rarity wrinkled her nose. “What’s that terrible stench?” She pointedly looked at Discord.

His mismatched camouflage back in place, he shrugged his shoulders, grinned and said, “It’s not me, darling! But I’ll take precautions!” His helmet disappeared, replaced by an old-fashioned gas mask.

The group of eight took position in the formation that they had found worked the best during previous attacks. Aria and Pinkie Pie stood on the line’s left extreme while Rainbow Dash and Applejack did the same on the right. In the center, Rarity pointed out targets for Fluttershy’s arrows while Sunset and Discord cast spells when necessary. The pair on each flank would make sorties to take out any monsters that got too close to the top of the earthwork.

“I don’t like this,” said Sunset while she squinted into the darkness. “Even without the smell, this feels very wrong.”

Pinkie suddenly hopped up and down on one foot. “Itchy toes! We’ve got problems!”

“What does that mean again?” Rainbow Dash turned to Applejack and cocked her head in confusion.

Brandishing her sickle and checking the position of her lariat, Applejack replied, “It means we’re way outnumbered again, sugar cube.”

About a dozen figures sprinted out from the tree line towards the redoubt. Sunset’s spheres of light revealed monsters with gray skin and long unkempt hair. Even at a distance of fifty yards, their clawed hands and pointed teeth were apparent. As the fast-moving monsters closed on the redoubt, another two dozen zombies and an equal number of skeletons moved on to the battlefield. Glowing brightly in Aria’s hands, Chainbreaker squealed its buzzsaw warning.

“These are ghouls! They’re semi-intelligent, fast and can paralyze you if they score a hit.” Discord made an umbrella-like gesture and captured four of the ghouls beneath a fishing net that dropped from the sky. “Catch of the day, Fluttershy! Now it’s your turn!”

Her pink tongue sticking out of the side of her mouth, Fluttershy took aim and launched an arrow with a red sphere built into the shaft. It struck the ghouls trapped in the net and exploded in a twenty-foot wide fireball. All four ghouls and a handful of the lesser undead fell to the incendiary blast. The remaining ghouls spread out into two groups, as smoke and the smell of burnt flesh filled the air.

“Come on, Sunset, soften them up! There are still too many,” urged Aria. Next to her, Pinkie impatiently jogged in place.

The Element of Redemption lit for a moment, and a glowing green arrow sped forth from Sunset’s outstretched hands. It struck the lead ghoul on Aria’s side of the formation and splashed acid all over the monster. Clawing at its own body, the ghoul fell to the ground as it rapidly dissolved.

Applejack laid her sickle on the grass and reached for her lariat. “It’s time to wrangle these critters!” she shouted, as she spun the lasso over her head. With an expert toss, the loop encircled two of the ghouls advancing on her half of the redoubt. As she quickly tied the bitter end of the rope to one of the sharpened tree trunks, Applejack called, “They’re madder than a wet hen at a barbecue! Take them out before they claw free!”

“Aria, help Applejack!” Sunset’s voice boomed across the top of the man-made hill.

Acknowledging the order, Aria further organized their defense. “Rarity, cover the left with Pinkie!” The purple-skinned Siren sprinted across the line towards the bound monsters, which fumed and clawed at the lariat. The Doppler effect of Chainbreaker’s squeal echoed in each of their ears as she ran by.

Clutching her club in both hands, Rarity advanced and stood shoulder to shoulder with Pinkie as the first ghoul clambered to the top of the redoubt. “Disgusting creature,” she hissed and hopped away from a sweep of a razor-sharp claw. With impeccable balance, Rarity’s riposte caught the monster in the back of the head and knocked it down.

Pinkie Pie decapitated the festering creature with an overhand swing from her handaxe. She kicked its body back down the redoubt, bowling over two of its fellows. Pinkie cheered, “Great work, Rarity! See, I told you that you wouldn’t get dirty!”

Magic projectiles from Discord flew to the left side and felled another ghoul that was clambering over the sharpened tree trunks. He laughed loudly and quipped, “You got a spare, Pinkie! Let me show you how it’s done!” Discord’s camouflage top morphed into a pink and purple bowling shirt. He drew his arm back and threw it forward, producing a flaming ball of pitch that rolled down the earthwork and set several undead aflame.

On the right side of the defensive line, Aria reached the captive undead just as they were about to break free of Applejack’s lasso. Aria spun Chainbreaker in a deadly vertical circle. Aria caught the first ghoul on the upswing, striking it in the center of its chest. Even before the monster had completely disintegrated in a flash of magical energy, she pivoted on her left heel. Her purple and teal pigtails flailed wildly around her head as she delivered a mighty blow that lobbed off the second ghoul’s attacking arm.

Applejack tossed her lariat back to the top of the redoubt while Rainbow Dash advanced and finished off the one-armed ghoul with three rapid strikes to its head. The two girls were about to trade witticisms when an arrow flew between them, skewering an attacking zombie and delivering a potent electric shock to the monster.

“Watch out! They’re right behind you!” called Fluttershy, her teal eyes wide with concern.

“Hold on!” Sunset concentrated on her magic while crossing her arms in front of her chest in the shape of an X. When she spread her arms, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Aria were suddenly covered with a translucent, sea-green glow. Sunset yelled, “That mage armor will protect you for a time! Hurry up, we’re unbalanced and have to reform our line!”

Discord, Rarity and Pinkie were losing ground on the left, and the last pair of ghouls steered the bulk of the remaining undead in their direction.

Rainbow Dash attempted to disengage but was struck in the back by a rusty sword wielded by a skeleton. “Ow! That hurt!” A reverse spin of her quarterstaff knocked down her opponent.

“It’s not bad, Rainbow Dash. The magic glow took most of the force,” said Applejack, the relief evident in her voice.

Aria vaporized two skeletons with one swing from Chainbreaker, covering Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Once they were safe, she dispatched two more zombies, and then retreated upward.

In an effort to encourage Rainbow Dash and Applejack, Aria yelled, “Come on, you two. They’re trying to take out our weaker members! Discord’s getting tired. They’re barely holding on over there.”

When Pinkie heard Aria’s assessment, her poofy pink curls immediately deflated into pin-straight locks. “Weak?! Who are you calling weak?” shouted Pinkie, frowning fiercely. Next to her, Rarity was struggling to stay out of the grasp of a zombie. Discord crushed several skeletons underneath a shower of accordions, but was alarmingly close to a number of undead as he defended the two young women.

Seeing her mood change, Aria gave Pinkie a mischievous grin. In a thundering voice, she fanned the flames of Pinkie’s rage. “Pinkamena Diane Pie, go wild!”

“It’s about time you took the brakes off of this crazy train!” Pinkie’s words gave way to a guttural shout of rage. Her handaxe flew back and forth with impossible speed, while she frothed at the mouth. In just a few moments, three, then six, and finally a dozen undead corpses fell at Pinkie’s feet while her straight pink hair whipped to and fro.

Discord, no longer in danger, clapped his hands in glee. “Pinkie Pie as a myrmidon! Priceless!”

Aria pulled Rarity and Discord back to the center of the redoubt while Pinkie’s assault continued. Sunset rubbed a bit of rabbit’s fur on a small rod of amber and loosed a lightning bolt at the two remaining ghouls. The smell of ozone filled the air as the monsters fell to the ground, with their dead muscles twitching involuntarily.

When the last zombie fell, Pinkie’s hair resumed its normal curl. She huffed and puffed her way up the hill with a huge smile on her face despite her obvious fatigue. “That was fun, Aria!”

Her purple eyes twinkling with amusement, Aria smiled. “I knew you had it in you all along.” She grabbed a medical bag out of Discord’s backpack and said seriously, “Now let’s see to our wounds. You and Rainbow Dash have a couple of deep cuts, and I see that Rarity’s been hurt as well.”

“Discord, what the hell is that?” asked Sunset. She took a step backwards while her green-blue eyes flew wide open.

The Spirit of Chaos bit his lip worriedly. “Fluttershy, when other undead appear, it’s time to use one of those extra-special arrows.” He turned to Sunset. “That, Element Bearer, is a ghast. It’s not quite an undead general, but he’s certainly not alone.”

The festering brown corpse that stood at the edge of the tree line lifted both its arms in a taunting gesture. A cloud of green gas exuded from the monster, burning their eyes and causing the group to gag, even at a distance of fifty yards. The ghast was clothed in rags, and its face was twisted in hatred for the living. He flung an arm forward and more undead burst from the forest in a semi-organized charge.

Fluttershy gulped and nocked one of the glowing arrows that Discord had made. She flipped her pink braid back, controlled her breath and loosed the radiant missile at the ghast. A bar of white light pierced the horrible monster and then exploded into a brilliant shockwave that momentarily turned night into day. The entire company of undead fell to the ground.

“I have no words, darling,” said Rarity, her mouth hanging open in admiration.

Rainbow Dash exclaimed, “I do! That was awesome!”

Tending to Rainbow Dash’s superficial sword wound, Applejack deadpanned, “Sugar cube, you really need to change it up sometimes.”

“A ‘false dawn’ spell!” Sunset gave a low whistle. “Discord, that’s very powerful magic. I didn’t realize you hated undead so much. Thank you. You and Fluttershy saved us all from, at best, a terrible fight.”

Discord wiped his sweaty brow with a handkerchief. He wearily shrugged. “It’s our archer that deserves the credit. I just provided her with a potent tool. Besides, you’re proving yourself quite an adept battle commander, Sunset.” He inclined his head respectfully.

“I just wish that I were more skilled with evocation magic. My offensive spells could use more punch,” pouted Sunset as she adjusted the bandolier holding her arcane components.

His voice calm and wise, Discord approached Sunset and whispered, “When Twilight is angry, she packs quite a wallop. But by using your imagination, your skill in enchantment and illusory magic unlocks the potential of others, not to mention yourself. Redemption, after all, is a transformation of sorts, so your arcane specialties make sense to me.”

Setting down her bow, Fluttershy raided the first aid kit to bandage the numerous small injuries that Pinkie had suffered during her rampage. Fluttershy bit her lip, and looked worriedly at Sunset. “I hope that this bit of calm is worth the cost. There are only five of those arrows left.”

“It is, because we get a few minutes to strategize and assess our injuries before we run again.” Aria applied antiseptic spray to a cut on Rarity’s right arm.

Gritting her teeth against the sting from the disinfectant, Rarity asked, “What should we do next, Sunset?”

“Discord was right – not that I had any reason to doubt him,” Sunset reassured the seated Spirit of Chaos. “The undead are getting stronger and stronger, and are doing their job of weakening us.”

Swallowing a big gulp from his canteen, Discord said, “These undead are too numerous and too powerful for Raven to manage on her own. She must be using some sort of necromantic generator to produce them from the cemetery. Those devices are powerful, but generally fragile if you can get to them.”

Aria took advantage of the respite to pull the pre-paid mobile phone linking her to Adagio from her hip pocket. Examining it closely, she opened it and concentrated on a text message. The light from the phone’s display illuminated Aria’s fierce scowl.

“Then I think it’s time we split our group,” said Sunset decisively. “If we play the game according to Raven and Adagio’s rules, we will lose. One group will take out whatever it is that’s producing the undead while the other heads towards the cave.”

Rarity held up her index finger. “There’s one problem, darling. We still don’t know which cave to go to!”

“We do now!” exclaimed Aria. She read the text from Adagio. “It says ‘Aria, there is no time and the signal is awful. I am in the Bridal Cave with the Master’s tribute. Find a second cavern behind the first. I will perform the sacrifice back there. Help me. The banshee must be destroyed. Far too pow—’ It seems she had to send before she finished her thought.”

Chuckling, Applejack said, “Adagio seems to have bitten off more than she can chew! If she didn’t have my sister, I’d just let her choke on it.” She helped Rainbow Dash to her feet.

“Allow me to suggest a course of action, Sunset.” Discord put away his canteen and stroked his goatee. “If we must divide our forces, let’s force our enemies to divide theirs. But first, can you cast an undead ward? We need a powerful shield that will protect us completely.”

Wiping her hand across her face, Sunset let out a long exhalation then slowly nodded. “I’d have to use one of Celestia’s feathers and one of Twilight’s feathers, but I can do it. I won’t be able to move the protected area once I cast it, though.”

“What are you planning, Discord?” Fluttershy asked softly.

The Spirit of Chaos snapped his fingers and changed his clothing into steel-toed boots, baggy cargo shorts, a shirt with the slogan “Rage Against the Undead” printed on it, and he topped the ensemble with a Canterlot Corsairs ballcap with a flat brim. “My plan is only the most epic taunt in the history of ridicule! This is going back to my roots as a newly ascended Spirit of Chaos!”

“I can’t wait!” shouted Pinkie, jumping up and down and tugging on Discord’s sleeve. “Can I help? Please?”

Discord answered, “Not this time, Pinkie. I’m going to make Shrieking Raven so angry that she can’t help herself from coming here.”

Rarity shook her head. “I rather think that I should plug my ears.”

“No way! We have to hear this!” said Rainbow Dash, grinning crookedly.

Discord cleared his throat and winked at Sunset. He pulled a plaid-painted bullhorn out of his backpack. “I know you and that fancy amulet can manage a ventriloquism spell. So, just send this in the general direction of that cave, please. Oh, and you all should take Rarity’s advice and cover your ears. You’ll hear what I have to tell Raven, but know that this is going to get extremely loud!”

The Element of Redemption flared briefly. Sunset shook her head at Discord. “I just know we’re all going to regret this on some level, but drawing Raven away from Adagio is a great idea despite the risk. You’re on, Fangface.” She looked at the Spirit of Chaos with amused anticipation, while putting her fingers in her ears.

Discord gritted his teeth and inhaled. His eyes glowed with scarlet light as he loosed his verbal barrage.

Sonata parked Rarity’s convertible in the empty parking lot of Scorpan’s church and got out of the car. She shielded her eyes from the sun, which had long surpassed its daily zenith. Flipping her long, blue-streaked ponytail behind her, she walked briskly to the twin front doors of the stone church and entered.

“Father Scorpan?” Sonata called, her voice echoing in the sanctuary, dim despite the bright afternoon sunshine outside. Today, it seemed that the stained glass possessed a muted glow as opposed to the shimmering brilliance she had encountered just two days ago.

The deep voice seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere at the same time. “Sonata Dusk! I must hear your purpose in coming here today. Are you here attempting to deceive me, as you did the young man who still lies in the hospital? He is a member of my congregation, as you know. Big Macintosh’s injuries, and how they were caused, upset me.” Scorpan’s baritone took on a threatening tone.

“Are you angry with me?” Sonata asked.

“Child, know this.” Scorpan’s commanding voice was not delivering a threat, but articulating a promise. “If I were truly angry, you would not have been able to enter this sanctuary. Now tell me why you chose to seek me out.”

“I come here to request your help, which you offered during my first visit,” declared Sonata, fighting a battle against her own fear. When only silence answered, she added, “Sunset Shimmer showed me what would have happened if my selfish plan had succeeded. It was the most horrible experience of my life, and a punishment I deserved.”

The minister’s voice softened to a whisper. “While the burn on your chest will heal quickly, those images you saw in your vision have been scorched onto your spirit. So, at long last, are you thinking of atonement?”

“Atonement? I’ll worry about forgiveness after I do what must be done. The banshee Shrieking Raven has stolen Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. My friends are rushing out into the darkness to save them. To make it worse, Adagio believes He-Who-Swims-In-Darkness’ lies, and must hear the truth before she sacrifices the girls.” Sonata spun a slow circle, addressing the seemingly empty church. “I now know how much my brother loved me, and how he never gave up on me. Well, I’m not giving up on my friends. I know they need me, but I know you can tell me how I can help,” she said confidently from the center of the church, addressing the altar and organ.

Scorpan, suddenly appearing, laid a hand on Sonata’s shoulder from behind, nearly scaring her out of her wits. When she spun around in surprise, he smiled approvingly. “At last, you have come here requesting aid. I began to think that this day would never come. I have broad sight into the hearts of others, and I know much that is hidden. Such power, even in this low-magic world, must be offset by many rigid rules.”

Crossing her arms over her chest, Sonata raised her eyebrow and asked, “Like what?”

The clergyman counted the restrictions on his fingers as he answered. “Of course, you must be discreet with this knowledge, Sonata. I can only offer assistance when asked. I may only use my physical gifts in defense of my church, and in defense of those taking sanctuary within it. I have the ability to employ magic, with a few exceptions, only when I am either inside or close to my church. These are but a few of the prices I pay to have vast knowledge, and to be trusted with the responsibilities I have accepted.”

“So, your visit to the hospital was risky?” asked Sonata, who looked Scorpan up and down closely, as if seeing him again for the first time.

He shook his head and chuckled. “I was attending to a member of my congregation who was experiencing a crisis. Just because I was once a gargoyle doesn’t mean that I’m powerless if I’m not perched atop the church. However, my powers in this place are a major reason why Raven took the girls to the shores of Lake Piebald. That beautiful wilderness is far out of my reach, even in defense of Scootaloo, whom I have protected fiercely for the past ten years.”

“I thought Scootaloo’s parents were killed in the same car crash that killed Apple Bloom’s parents. Doesn’t she have any relatives to care for her?” asked Sonata, who wrung her hands nervously.

Scorpan smiled sadly, and deftly avoided answering Sonata’s specific question. “I watch out for her during the times in which the government’s support network breaks down, and she is the most frequent guest at the parsonage. Fortunately, there is an individual that is nearly ready to care for her as she grows into a young woman, but that conversation must wait. As important as this subject is, we are wasting valuable time. I have a question for you, Sonata. Who are you?” he asked eagerly.

“I am the daughter of Coral Symphony and Dusky Defense, twin to Coral Aegis,” began Sonata.

Scorpan impatiently interrupted, “Yes, yes! You were transformed into a Siren, your body and soul nearly consumed by darkness, and you were exiled here. But, why do you think that the Queen and He-Who-Swims-in-Darkness needed you to be offered as tribute?”

Stroking her chin and cocking her head, Sonata tried to come up with an answer to Scorpan’s question. “Because I could sing so well?”

He spread his arms wide in exasperation. “That’s what you were meant to think!” Scorpan continued gravely, “The good powers of Equestria were hoping beyond hope that Leviathan could be stopped before his hellish religion crawled out of the sea. Your parents loved each other so much that those same powers made it possible for them to receive a great gift: you.”

“Me?” Sonata raised an eyebrow skeptically and steadied herself by placing a hand on the nearest pew.

Scorpan, in a rare display of impatience, folded his brawny arms over his chest and frowned. “It’s nearly impossible to sum this up so quickly, but I must. It’s no accident that Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, and the other Element Bearers were born so close to one another in time and space. So it was with you. But, as Discord’s continued existence shows, life is unpredictable. There was a surprising development. You were not born alone, and not meant to shoulder the burden for your destiny by yourself.”

She stroked her chin and nodded. “I think I understand. Whoever or whatever controls that sort of thing decided that taking out my previous Master was just too big a job to be done by one individual. I’m glad for that, because Coral Aegis made me so happy.” Sonata sniffed and wiped away a tear. “Sadly, He-Who-Swims-In-Darkness tore us apart.”

The priest held up a hand, palm outward, to calm Sonata. “Please don’t mistake me as I make a hurried explanation. I do not intend to diminish the incredible achievements of Coral Aegis’ long life, nor do I harbor any doubt about the enduring sibling love you have for one another, but his formidable charismatic gifts represented only a fraction of your potential abilities. This moment is all about answers you have long sought, and long deserved.” Scorpan stepped forward and placed his strong hands on her shoulders. “While Leviathan’s magic twisted you to feed upon lust and division for many centuries, you have retained unique talents to inspire others and instill courage!”

Sonata lifted her bracelet into the light. The brass and precious stones reflected the intensifying afternoon sun. “That’s why He-Who-Swims-In-Darkness demanded me as tribute!” Below the bracelet, her hand clenched into a fist. “So he could steal me away before I could help Coral fight him!”

“At last, you see!” Scorpan swept Sonata into a crushing hug. He released her, and continued. “The jagged stem of the note on your name sigil signified your ability to bring others together to fulfill a single, unified purpose. You can bring light to the darkness and show Adagio the truth.”

Excitedly, Sonata said, “Yes! It’s all about choices! Leviathan tricked the Aquastrian queens into doing things that can never be taken back. The slavemistresses become slaves themselves. That’s what he’s trying to do to Adagio now!”

“So astute, now that you’ve finally cast aside the dark mask clouding your vision! But, I must speak practically.” He narrowed his brown eyes and intoned, “Through a combination of Sunset Shimmer’s actions and the Power of Harmony, you can finally use your magic for good instead of evil. Because the Great Betrayer has already touched you, you should be immune to his worst powers, but the fear he projects is nearly indomitable, even to Adagio and Aria.”

Sonata’s brow furrowed as she hesitantly added, “But, what about Aria’s vision, when she turned away from He-Who-Swims-In-Darkness and walked to Lady Luna? He must be furious with her.”

“You are correct, child. Leviathan, when stirred from his slumber, will first focus his rage upon Aria Blaze. Though she does not know it, Aria is in need of rescue as much as the three young women, despite the legendary weapon she carries. Worst of all, Leviathan’s dark divinity and his aura of terror will eventually overcome even Sunset Shimmer’s most powerful spells,” said Scorpan, whose brown eyes mirrored Sonata’s concern. “The hour grows late. You must go now if you are to reach your friends in time. Do you have any last questions?”

Examining the beautiful imagery of the stained glass windows, she inhaled deeply, smelling the comforting aroma of polished wood and well-used hymnals. Gazing deep into Scorpan’s eyes, Sonata asked, “Can you give me a weapon, or an item, or something of substance that will help me tonight?”

“Ask and you shall receive, courageous one.” The minister’s booming laugh echoed throughout the sanctuary. “Follow me!” Scorpan jogged out of his church, with Sonata close behind. They headed towards a large white house with an impeccably kept backyard confined behind a quaint white fence. He entered the side door of the parsonage’s detached garage, and motioned for Sonata to catch up.

Pressing her lips together in confusion, Sonata entered. She glanced around the neatly-organized interior, her eyes passing over what must be an antique sportscar concealed beneath a custom-fitted cover. “Father Scorpan?” she called, and gasped when she noticed two pinpricks of red light staring at her from the darkness.

“Don’t be alarmed, Sonata,” said Scorpan, flicking on the workbench’s light. “There are times I still prefer the darkness for reflection and manual labor. It reminds me of my youth. I’ve found what you need.”

Sonata stepped forward cautiously and asked, with childlike enthusiasm, “What is it? Is it a sword? My father’s Aquastrian spear?”

He handed her a well-used, slightly rusty pitchfork. “This is what you need tonight.”

“This is a terrible weapon!” Sonata pouted, unable to contain her disappointment as she examined the gardening tool.

Scorpan chuckled and his baritone voice deepened a bit more. “Really? You’re so good at the chores in the livestock barn. Your actions have figuratively, if not literally, left quite a lot of manure to clean. This is perfect.”

“I’m sorry. I meant no disrespect.” Sonata dropped her head, and blushed. “I expected something more.”

He closed her fingers over the pitchfork’s handle, and said kindly, “You expected something more obvious. This is a walking stick, a weapon of last resort, and its tines can help your footing in bad terrain. Most of all, like you, this pitchfork is much, much more than it seems to be on its surface.”

Goosebumps raised on Sonata’s skin and motes of sky-blue magical energy began to glitter in the dim garage. “Thank you, Father Scorpan. Thank you for helping me understand who I was, who I am, and who I must be. I am grateful for your gift.”

“It is you who undertook this journey of your own free will, Sonata Dusk. Thank Sunset Shimmer when you see her, because she is the one who believed in you most of all. I am simply glad that I could show you the next few steps.” Wistfulness gave way to gravitas, and the tone of his voice changed to a farewell. “Now go! Fulfill your long overdue destiny!”

Without a word, Sonata leaned forward and kissed the priest on the cheek. Clutching the pitchfork in both hands, she jogged back to Rarity’s car, and placed the tool in the back seat. She started the engine, and adjusted the mirrors, seeing the determination in her own eyes as she did so.

Sonata tuned Rarity’s satellite radio to an uptempo electronica station and let the beat wash over her as she dropped the convertible into gear and turned on to the main road. A final glance into the rearview mirror revealed Scorpan, who stood next to the parsonage’s garage with his head bowed in prayer.

The white convertible sped forward as Sonata’s right foot depressed the accelerator. “Better late than never! Hold on, everyone. I’m on my way!”

*****

Author's Note

The fight to reach the Crusaders in time continues. Meanwhile Sonata, with increasing self-awareness, sprints to Lake Piebald to help her friends. I eagerly anticipate your comments and feedback as the story’s climactic confrontations grow closer. Thank you very much for continuing to read Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer!

IsabellaAmoreSirenix (a.k.a. The Galactic Overlord), SerenaAveline (a.k.a. The Dark Goddess), and EstrellaEssentia (no additional title necessary) pitched in yet again and donated their sage advice and literary brilliance as this chapter took shape. Yes, there was also a hearty helping of ridicule, but I’m feeling grateful as I publish this update.

Once again, I’ll put out a call for any skilled artists to get in touch with me if they’d like to make some money by bringing some of the moments of this story to life. I have no artistic skill, but would enjoy seeing (and would pay well to see) a high-quality rendering of Aria holding Chainbreaker aloft for the first time, the battle on the redoubt, Sunset working the forge or writing Twilight in her apartment, Sonata’s attempted seduction, and several others. Thank you very much for reading this new chapter!

Chapter Twenty-Three

Adagio’s glowing magenta eyes were focused on her sketch pad, which was balanced precariously on her lap. With her hair unbound, held only by the glittering Aquastrian tiara perched on her head, the Siren princess sat cross-legged on the cave floor. Her back rested against the bars of the cage where Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom were held captive. Fresh batteries enabled one lantern to continue to provide its dim but steady illumination in the sparkling cavern. A second flickering lantern, powered by a petroleum product, stood near the pool fed by the underground river. The white and yellow light mingled overhead and reflected off of the blue celestite and golden pyrite crystals to enhance the ethereal, otherworldly nature of the cave.

The sun had sank beneath the horizon nearly two hours ago, which is when the girls had shown the first signs of restored lucidity. By now, Shrieking Raven’s mind-clouding potion had worn off, but Adagio couldn’t bring herself to engage the captive trio in any sort of substantive conversation.

Is it better to know that death is coming? Is that knowledge mercy or cruelty? Adagio asked herself, but remained unable to answer those difficult questions.

The interior of Nautilus Hall’s throne room, as it appeared during her mother’s rule, was taking shape on the page in front of the curly-haired Siren. She moved the colored pencil clutched in her right hand very slowly, attempting to create fine details on the smaller of the two thrones. Adagio lifted her pencil and banged against the cage with her elbow as Sweetie Belle’s wails worked their way around her gag, distracting the Siren princess.

Adagio rolled her eyes when the noise intensified. “Silence!” she roared, imitating her mother’s sharp rebuke. She felt the cage wobble behind her as Scootaloo and Apple Bloom did what they could, despite their compromised mobility, to comfort their friend.

Rising to her feet, Adagio turned around to find the three young women with their heads together, tears mingling on each others’ faces. When Adagio’s shadow fell across them, they ceased their crying and looked up at their captor. Scootaloo attempted to disguise her fear by contorting her face with fury, while Sweetie Belle simply stared into the cave with abject terror. Apple Bloom’s amber eyes looked up imploringly at Adagio, her muffled voice begging for an explanation or mercy of some kind.

A lump grew in Adagio’s throat, just as it had three hours ago when Apple Bloom repeatedly asked for her mother, the single questioning word evident despite the gag. I don’t know what moved me to run outside and burn that makeshift purple bow, but I felt better afterwards. Perhaps I need a bit of fresh air now, she thought.

“Girls, if you promise to be well-behaved and quiet, then I will bring you back some water from the lake. I need to step outside for a moment.” She spun on her heel as the young women began to cry again. Something about the inflection embedded in their weeping made her stop.

Adagio turned around and folded her hands in front of her stomach. Her enhanced vision permitted her to see the complex emotions vying for superiority on each young woman in the cage. Fear would be replaced by fury, and then revulsion would be replaced by something else.

Pity? Is that what I saw? Adagio thought. Her mouth dropped open and her hands fell to her sides as she considered the possibility. The lump in her throat spread downwards to her stomach, so Adagio briskly walked towards the crevice that led to the exit, eager for a moment alone. On her way, she bent down and scooped up the empty water bottles that used to be tainted with Raven’s potion.

After making her way through the first cavern, Adagio strode towards the chilly waves lapping the gravel and sand beach. The lake breeze blew her curly orange hair behind her where it snapped in the wind like a serpentine battle standard. She spread her arms wide, closed her eyes and let the water bottles fall to the ground as the wind chilled her damp skin.

I miss Sonata and Aria, but there’s something about this quiet solitude that’s comforting. Adagio opened her eyes when she felt the pre-paid mobile phone vibrate in her pocket. She smiled broadly when she noticed the orange message icon illuminated on the flip phone’s cover. Looking very much like an excited teenager, she enthusiastically opened the phone and rapidly read Aria’s report.

“Oh, thank the Master that she’s here, and she’s brought Discord! We have a chance.” Without witnesses to see her display weakness, the desperation and relief that Adagio had buried within her bubbled up at last, creeping into her voice. She wiped the excess moisture from her eyes with the back of her hand.

Adagio bowed her head toward the tiny phone to begin a reply, but stopped when her keen ears heard the sound of boots crunching on loose gravel. Hopeful elation transforming to wariness, she stashed the electronic device in the pocket of her fleece vest. The plastic clinked against the cold steel of the butterfly knife she had stolen from Sunset Shimmer, reminding Adagio of its presence.

What did my mother think the first time that she had to do this? she wondered silently as she ran her right thumb along the knife’s side. I had heard her order many deaths. But the only time I remember actually seeing her kill was just before we were transformed into Sirens by the Master. Why did that guard choose certain death for a pointless gesture? Her eyebrows knit together in deep thought as another gust ruffled her hair.

Zipping the pocket closed, Adagio knelt and began filling the bottles with cold, clear lake water as the footsteps came closer.

“There was no need to come out here, Adagio. Why didn’t you drink from the pool inside the cave?” Shrieking Raven’s tone balanced the knife’s edge between concerned and mocking. “I believe it unwise to leave tonight’s guests of honor alone for any period of time.”

As she filled the fourth bottle and deliberately twisted the top closed, Adagio heard the banshee’s footsteps come to a halt just a few feet behind her. The Siren felt a swirl of magical energy which caused the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

Hiding a gasp with a deep inhalation, she calmly explained herself. “You’re here a couple of hours before I expected you, Raven. I needed a brief moment away from the girls, and this errand served a dual purpose. I anticipate no problems.” She stood, turned towards the banshee and promptly dropped two of the water bottles upon catching sight of Raven.

The stars and moon shone down upon Shrieking Raven, who had abandoned all pretense of humanity. Her black eyes, trapped in her skeletal visage, reflected an unholy parody of the night sky. The banshee was dressed in a long gray robe, fringed at the collar and hem in coarse hair that spanned every color of the rainbow. Obviously possessed of a powerful magical dweomer, the garment seemed to absorb nearby light. Raven walked the beach barefoot, her feet clad only in dead, parchment-like flesh. Her wrists were encircled with numerous bracelets, making it impossible to determine which were arcane and which were merely aesthetic. Her right hand, its nails sharpened into claws, clutched the handle of a large wooden case. Raven’s only whisper of humanity came from her lustrous black hair, which was done in elaborate braids that encircled her skull and trailed behind her.

Raven’s raspy laugh took on a cruel edge as her desiccated lips curled into a sneer. “On those rare occasions when I lift my disguise, I enjoy the fact that my appearance causes such surprise and terror. Adagio, it speaks volumes about your ability to rule that you haven’t screamed in terror or soiled yourself.”

“You are certainly an imposing figure, Raven.” Adagio scooped up one of the water bottles, but intentionally left the second lying in the sand. “Fortunately, my mother exposed me to horrors both subtle and gross at an early age, so I have acquired some resilience in confronting terrifying things.”

The banshee narrowed her eyes and paused. Satisfied, she nodded after a moment. “I’ll accept that as a compliment, and note that your mother was truly a great Aquastrian Queen that prepared you well for this moment. Your throne has been vacant for far too long, Adagio. Let’s go to the cave and begin.”

As they walked, Adagio’s eyes were drawn to the multicolored fringe on the magical robe. She nonchalantly asked, “Where did you acquire such impressive raiment?”

Raven snorted and haughtily answered, “My Lord Vecna once wore this robe, but its magic was much reduced after I was banished to this world. It took many deaths to restore its power through the addition of the fringe. I see that you are very curious about it.” The banshee caressed the fuzzy collar.

“Indeed. The material seems familiar, but I can’t place it.” Adagio squinted in the darkness as she walked beside Raven. The cave’s entrance was only twenty yards away. The Siren glanced back towards the water bottle that remained on the beach.

The banshee’s raspy laugh raised goosebumps on Adagio’s skin. Raven flashed a terrifying grin, and then said, “Magic is so tough to come by in this world. The fringe is made from the scalps of many men and women, seized in a series of elaborate rituals, Your Highness! Would you like to feel the texture?”

Adagio suppressed the urge to retch as they reached the cave entrance. She smacked her thigh with her palm and feigned forgetfulness. Imitating Sonata’s ditzy, endearing innocence, she cried, “Oh, no! I forgot one of the bottles! Please go ahead, Raven. I’ll catch up right away.”

With a smug look on her skeletal face, Raven nodded her assent and entered the cave’s entryway. Adagio waited until the banshee had disappeared from view and sprinted for the beach. Before she reached down to grab the last water bottle, she opened her phone and rapidly tapped out a reply to Aria on the cheap phone’s keypad:

Aria, there is no time and the signal is awful. I am in the Bridal Cave with the Master’s tribute. Find a second cavern behind the first. I will perform the sacrifice back there. Help me. The banshee must be destroyed. Far too pow—

“Quit stalling, Adagio! Your destiny is at hand and I grow impatient!” called Raven from the entrance.

Adagio pressed the “send” button on the cheap flip phone, and then concealed it in her vest. Clutching all four water bottles, she shouted, “I’m on my way!” and awkwardly jogged back towards the dark opening in the side of the cliff. As she approached, Adagio caught a glimpse of red along with a metallic reflection as Raven adjusted something beneath her robe.

The banshee crouched down and closed the wooden case, frowning impatiently. “If you’re finally ready, let’s proceed. I’ve been waiting to taste those girls’ terror since the first moment they stepped into my classroom this past fall!”

The uneasy partnership walked silently across the first cavern, then squeezed their way through the glittering passage that led to the ritual site. As they emerged into the second cavern, Adagio’s eyes involuntarily flicked over to the cage, where Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were watching Apple Bloom intently. Her red bow askew, Apple Bloom leaned forward and communicated encouragement to the other two girls using her eyes and gestures from her shoulders.

Adagio’s mouth curled in a tiny smile. Very good, Apple Bloom. You’ve learned how to be very brave. But, there is no escape for your friends. Perhaps I can save you. She clutched the water bottles to her stomach.

“Princess Adagio, could you please remove their gags?” Raven’s words indicated a question, but her tone made it clear that she was giving an order. “Once you do so, I will approach our guests.”

The Siren produced Sunset’s knife from her pocket, along with the key to the padlock securing the cage. Walking into the illuminated part of the cave, she deftly unlocked the cage while holding the four-inch steel blade in front of her. She narrowed her magenta eyes and instructed the captive girls. “One at a time, shuffle towards me. If I have to go in there and do this by force, there may be a nasty accident, and I don’t want that. Apple Bloom, you’re first.”

In succession, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle followed the Siren’s instructions. Their gags fell free and their eyes spoke volumes, but to their credit the trio didn’t utter a sound until Sweetie Belle whispered, “I know that voice, Scoots. Where do I know that voice?”

Her dark pink hair matted against her head, Scootaloo glanced at Adagio and whispered back to her. “I can’t place it either, but she called Adagio a princess? What’s going on?”

“Shut up! Don’t taunt the crazy Siren with the knife!” warned Apple Bloom. The three girls huddled together in the back left corner of the cage, eyes darting nervously to and fro.

Adagio threw her head back and laughed with false bravado. “I’m the least of your worries, little ones.” She crouched down and handed each of the girls a bottle of lake water, then locked the cage’s tiny door. She willed her commanding voice to drip over the trio like thick honey. “Please drink this, because you must be parched. I solemnly promise that it’s simply cold lake water.”

“Hurry, Your Highness. My patience with this motherly attitude is wearing thin!” announced Raven from the darkness.

Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow suspiciously and hesitantly asked, “Who gives you orders, Adagio? Besides, why are you so worried about us all of a sudden after tying us up and not saying a word to us for hours?”

Adagio knelt down and whispered into the cage, “You heard my colleague. Chug it down, because her displeasure would be very unpleasant for all four of us. This is all the comfort I can spare you for the moment.” Worry creased her forehead until she stood and turned back towards the banshee. Behind her she heard the sounds of hasty drinking, followed by plastic striking the metal bars.

“We’re done. Get on with it,” said Apple Bloom defiantly.

Stepping forward, Shrieking Raven intoned, “My intrepid students, it’s so wonderful to see you! I’m sad to say that literature is not going to be the subject we study tonight.” The dim light and eerie reflections from crystals and water cast long shadows across the banshee’s skull and body, obscuring her true nature from the trio held captive in the cage.

“Ms. Raven, help us! Get us out of here!” shrieked Sweetie Belle.

The monster stepped fully into the light and her laugh surrounded the three girls like a whirlwind of dry, decaying leaves. “If it’s release you seek, I assure you that you will be freed later tonight.” She set down the case and spread her arms wide. “Behold my true form! I am Shrieking Raven, Herald of Vecna, Bringer of Unlife, and soon, Empress of this puny little world!” She threw her head back and screamed a piercing, discordant note that knocked Adagio, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom flat on the cave floor.

As she collapsed in a daze, Adagio’s grimly thought, I must re-acquire the Master’s immunity to her powers, or all is lost for Aria and Sonata.

As the living recovered, Raven continued her monologue. “After tonight, my scream will no longer distract or injure. It will become deadly. Those killed by my shriek will find their souls bound to me! They will rise again and follow my orders.” The banshee’s voice mocked the captives. “Alas, you three won’t join my shambling horde, but you will make all of this possible!”

Sweetie Belle came to her senses and immediately burst into tears, wailing incomprehensibly. Apple Bloom unsuccessfully tried to comfort her, and her own amber eyes were still unfocused from the horrific shock. Adagio’s ears caught Apple Bloom whispering to Sweetie Belle, “I don’t care what she truly is, just speak the words Father Scorpan taught us, and believe in our sisters. To fight this, we have to remember our prayers and have faith.”

Scootaloo cleared her head and went on the offensive. “So you’re just a fancy skeleton, just like in Rainbow Dash’s movies! No wonder you’re so skinny and your classes bored us to death!” Scootaloo pressed her face against the bars. “You bet we won’t become part of your army! Rainbow Dash, Sunset Shimmer and the others will save us.” Behind her, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle cowered in terror as their minds processed the sight of Shrieking Raven anew, their faces slick with fresh tears.

Adagio struggled to her feet. It took considerable effort to keep her voice steady. “If they even make it here, Raven and I will finish them off. They are bravely walking into a trap, from which there is no escape.”

“Such brash spirit, Scootaloo! Your defiance is delectable.” Raven appeared to inhale deeply, then stooped and opened her case, removing an oddly shaped item wrapped in a black silk cloth. “The three of you always spoke of finding your talents and your destinies together. Well, Adagio will grant your wish. She has decided your ultimate purpose for you. Isn’t that generous of her?” The banshee’s face twisted into a sardonic grin.

Adagio gulped and took a shaky step towards the banshee. She glanced at the captives. “Raven, perhaps they would understand better if I expl--”

Steamrolling over the Siren’s objection, Raven interrupted. “At my direction, she planted several traps. Two of the three have already been activated tonight. The ranger station is shrouded in darkness and all within that sphere are trapped in dreamless sleep. She tuned and placed a necromantic engine in the cemetery that will produce a legion of undead minions that will grow more powerful with time, while feeding my own magic. Finally, on the beach, she left a special item that will ensure that our ritual is undisturbed.” Like a practiced stage actress, she stopped for effect and swept her flat eyes over the three captives.

Apple Bloom sniffed away the mucous plugging her nose and boldly filled the pregnant pause. “My sister and her friends will stop anything you throw at them! They have magic, Chainbreaker, and Discord!”

“I felt the necromantic engine start, but is it possible? Discord is here?” Raven darted forward and reached through the bars of the cage and gripped Apple Bloom’s shirt with a claw. “How did Sunset Shimmer find out where I would be? We are far beyond that cursed gargoyle’s sight!” She set down the silk-wrapped bundle and drew her other claw back menacingly.

Adagio came to Apple Bloom’s rescue. “Raven, if he is so close, then this gives you the perfect opportunity to settle the score with Discord once and for all! You’ve mentioned that he is nearly powerless in this world, and the beasts your magic items have unleashed will sap his strength. At last, you can taste the sweet nectar of revenge.” The Siren paused expectantly, while Raven’s razor-sharp fingernails gripped the collar of Apple Bloom’s shirt.

“As we established during our chess game, you have the ability to think strategically, Princess.” The banshee released the farmgirl and she slumped to the cave floor, shaking uncontrollably. “You are more correct than you know. Discord’s death, combined with Vecna’s rewards, will fill me with so much power that my shriek will level Scorpan’s church!”

“I’m happy to help, Raven. After all, you have been so much help to me.” Adagio nodded deferentially.

Tapping her temple with her claw, Raven asked, “Where were we? Oh, yes! We were discussing my favorite subject. Death!” She approached the cage again and picked up the silk-wrapped bundle. “Lord Vecna will awaken Adagio’s Master, Leviathan. He is very old and very hungry. What does he eat, I wonder?” The monster’s voice dripped with condescension.

Sweetie Belle had the wherewithal to quip in a shaking voice. “I don’t think it’s Manehattan-style pizza.”

“Choose your next witticism carefully, Sweetie Belle. It may be your last. Adagio will perform a ritual that hasn’t been performed in at least a thousand years. She will be crowned as the Queen of Imperial Aquastria. Her magical voice will be fully restored, after she rolls you to the edge of this pool, and follows Leviathan’s instructions. He will appear right here,” she gestured at the dark waters with her free claw. “You see, Adagio’s Master feeds on souls. He finds young women particularly tasty!”

The three girls screamed in terror. Adagio watched Raven unwrap the bundle she held and saw the unmistakable color of bleached bone. The dark magic emanating from the object made her stomach turn.

Shrieking Raven clenched her fist high in the air and pantomimed a stabbing motion. “When Adagio’s Master commands, she will kill each of you in turn! Your deaths and your souls will restore a god and crown a Queen!” She cackled wildly and placed the object upon her head.

The horror of the unveiled helmet caused Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle to vomit. Adagio steadied herself on a stalagmite to keep from falling over. A dim green and violet glow began to conquer the lanterns’ artificial light.

“By the Maelstrom, how did she get that?” whispered Adagio.

Fitting precisely over Raven’s elaborate braids was a helmet fashioned from an equine skull. The gaping eyeholes fit over the banshee’s face, permitting her to see, and created a terrifying tunnel to her unnerving gaze. The bleached bone of the skull’s crown fit snugly over the front two-thirds of Raven’s cranium, leaving a cascade of black braids to spill from the helmet’s back onto her magical robe. Above the center of Shrieking Raven’s forehead, the skull had a foot-long protrusion, where the bone had twisted itself into a spiral that ended in a blunted point. The unicorn’s horn glowed dimly with sickly green and purple lights escaping an inky, dark aura.

The banshee’s eyes took on the same black-and-purple glow as the helmet’s horn. She shouted over the frantic pleas of the three captives. “Behold! The skull of this world’s last natural unicorn! They were stupid, trusting creatures, and wholly inferior to Equestrian unicorns. Still, they held much of this world’s meager magic until they were hunted to extinction.” She laughed maniacally for a minute, and then regained control. Raven gestured to Adagio. “Your coronation is at hand, Princess. It is time to make use of the magic I have been hoarding for centuries for a moment just like this. It will take my Lord some time to wake your Master, and still more time for He Who Swims In Darkness to reach us, but I will begin.”

Adagio patted the pocket holding the knife and felt its comforting weight. She straightened herself proudly and approached the Herald of Vecna in all her dark splendor. Adagio’s gaze went beyond Raven to Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom, but her own concealed fear overcame the brief hesitation that crossed her mind. The Siren took a deep breath, looked into Raven’s eyes and declared, “I am ready to become Queen. I am ready to shoulder the duties and responsibilities of leading my people. Let us begin.”

“Excellent!” cried the banshee. She spread her arms wide and the horn atop her helmet began to glow with the darkest sort of magic. “Lord Vecna, the Chained God who is beyond Death and rules the realm of Unlife Eternal, hear the words of your Herald as I humbly request a boon!”

Scootaloo led the three girls in prayer as they knelt and put their heads together, “...Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done…”

A bar of eldritch fire burst forth from the horn, streaking into the underground pool.

Adagio tightened her grip on the stalagmite holding her upright. She felt the distinct sensation of being yanked in two directions. She was drawn to the dark pool like a magnet, while another part of her kept urging her to run. The power Raven is channeling is nearly as large as the power the Rainbooms brought to bear last week! I don’t think they can stop her if I fail, thought Adagio, captivated by the arcane display.

“...lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the Power and the Kingdom and the Glory forever and ever…” The three girls, eyes squeezed shut, spoke as one.

Shrieking Raven continued the dark prayer, her booming voice drowning out the captives’ humble plea. “Princess Adagio Dazzle has been severed from her Master, He Who Swims In Darkness! Wake him! Guide him here to receive a sacrifice and to crown the last scion of Imperial Aquastria as Queen!”

At the climax of her oratory, an arrow of darkness shot forth from Raven, and disappeared into the pool. Oddly, Adagio could still see the missile trailing off into infinity.

Weakly, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo completed their appeal. “Amen,” they said, their voices trembling. The trio huddled together once again, unable to master their shaking limbs.

“Now, Adagio, all we need to do is wait for your Master to arrive,” declared Raven. She fidgeted with an item on her left hip, concealed by her robe. “You will offer your sacrifices, become crowned and return to Aquastria.”

Feeling her tiara askew, Adagio used the dark pool as a mirror to straighten it. She gazed at her reflection and her eyes widened. Calming her quickening pulse, Adagio nonchalantly asked, “Raven, O Mighty Herald of Vecna, may I ask a question?”

“Of course, Adagio Dazzle, future Queen of Aquastria. What do you wish to know?” The banshee smiled, her skull’s grin supremely confident.

She crossed her arms over her chest. “Where is the mirror? This isn’t the statue outside the high school, nor is it the glacier that Starswirl used to banish us. How will I return home?”

The unicorn horn atop the helmet began to glow, and Shrieking Raven’s eyes took on a menacing glow. The banshee opened her mouth to speak, when suddenly she was interrupted by a high pitched squeal that shifted tones in the most annoying manner possible.

A deep, sarcastic voice filled the cavern. “Hello? Can you hear me? Hopefully your hearing aids are working properly, I'd hate for those old ears to miss anything! Oh, it's such a pity I can't hear you, though, Cassiopeia. Your singing voice must be devastatingly loud by now, and after so many centuries trapped in stone, I don’t desire an additional headache. Since your change in occupation, I’ve noticed that you can’t ever seem to hit the right note! Did the pay cut force you to stop the voice lessons, Cassiopeia?” Discord paused, but the sound of soft background laughter was carried along by the spell.

“It’s Shrieking Raven, Discord! I cast aside that name along with my mortality! You fool! We could have ruled Equestria together, but instead you chose to insult me and Lord Vecna.” The banshee shouted at the cavern’s ceiling, while she clenched her fists and began to pace.

Hope blossomed on the captives’ faces. Apple Bloom excitedly whispered, “If Discord’s here, then the others are too!”

Aria has done exactly as I had hoped. Perhaps I can help Discord enrage Raven, thought Adagio.

“You won’t succeed, you know. We’re slicing through your horde like ginsu knives and will be at your cave shortly. You were such a great strategist! Well, that’s not the truth. You were great until you got angry. Cassie, are you angry at me? Angry that I saw right through this feeble mess you call a 'plan?' Or perhaps are you upset that I have helped a new Element Bearer realize her potential? Well, if you tell me a secret about Adagio, I’ll tell you one about Sunset! Come on Viceroy, surely you can confide in your Emperor for old time’s sake!”

“Viceroy?” Adagio blurted. Raven’s head whipped around and her glowing midnight eyes bored into her. The Siren attempted a distraction. “You shouldn’t have to take that, Raven! I can handle business here!”

Raven angrily shook her head and stomped her foot like a furious horse. “No! I must supervise your sacrifice. This is a very sensitive moment, and I can’t have you wandering off!”

The Spirit of Chaos continued his biting linguistic barrage. “Raven, you could never get past your teeny-tiny imperfections, but now they are so much worse after a thousand years of wear and tear! Your hair is as limp and lifeless as your skeletal legs. Even before your big change, without the little toys that you cobbled together, your unicorn magic was so weak you couldn’t boil water or lift a whisk broom!” The background laughter was punctuated by a whoop.

“Damn him! I’ll flay the flesh off of his bones and see if he’s so sarcastic while he is carved into tiny pieces and fed to my ghasts!” The infuriated banshee punched a stalactite and it collapsed to the floor around her.

Adagio, seeing Raven’s resolve weaken, fanned the flames. “You shouldn’t have to suffer this indignity as the future ruler of this world. Confront him now and demand satisfaction!”

Discord giggled and guffawed as he mercilessly mocked Raven. “Oh, wait! I know why you decided to go from unicorn to banshee! Cassiopeia, I think that Vecna may have actually done you a favor by matching your external appearance to what was inside you. See, even I figured out the truth! Even before you took on your bony new form, your nethers were full of spiderwebs and dust!”

Overcome with rage, Raven loosed her shriek for the second time. The unholy magical force knocked the four living creatures to the cave floor once again. Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were rendered unconscious. Adagio, while not entirely overcome, found that she could only writhe among the rocks.

“What? It's not my fault that area never got used! Are you upset at me, Raven? Are you? Oh, I can't wait to hear what you have to say for yourself! Well, if you can even find me with those dusty old eyes of yours, that is! Peace, out!” Discord’s voice fell silent and they could distinctly hear peals of riotous female laughter mingled with applause before the spell ended.

Shrieking Raven stomped towards an open area of the cavern. “I accept your offer of help, Adagio,” she said through clenched teeth. “If your Master comes before I return, follow his instructions and slay the three girls as he directs. Just to make sure you’re not interrupted, I will provide you some additional protection.”

One of the banshee’s bracelets glowed brightly and a pale curtain of light blocked the exit to the cavern.

Adagio frowned as the barrier sprang into being. She composed herself and said encouragingly, “Thank you for this gift, Raven. Now, punish Discord for what he’s done! I’ll handle things here.”

“He will pay for this insult and others a thousand years old!” hissed Raven. Another piece of jewelry glowed brightly as its power was called upon. Its magic enclosed Shrieking Raven in a translucent sphere of darkness. The bauble disintegrated into dust as the sphere disappeared, taking the banshee along with it.

Now that she was alone with the three girls, Adagio wiped cold sweat from her brow. She looked into the pool and saw only a tiny speck of deeper darkness in the imperceptible distance, but it was slowly growing. She looked at the three unconscious girls then stood in place and spun a slow circle. When she was satisfied she was truly alone, Adagio crumpled to her knees as nausea gripped her stomach.

“Aria, please get here soon!”

Sonata made a left turn into the truck stop as dusk gave way to night. The floodlights illuminating the parking lot flickered on as she brought Rarity’s car to a stop alongside a row of gas pumps. She turned off the engine, got out of the car and rolled her eyes when she noticed the sign directing her to “pre-pay for gas after dark.”

“Well, I suppose I could stand to use the bathroom and grab a bite to eat,” Sonata said to herself. She leaned back inside the white convertible to check the clock embedded into the dashboard, which induced a frown. “Doesn’t my body know that I have to keep moving down the road?” She stood and impatiently flipped her blue-streaked ponytail behind her.

As she strode across the parking lot towards the truck stop’s main building, she looked through a large window that framed a friendly waitress busily serving dinner to a small group of truck drivers. Sonata smiled at the way the waitress wagged her finger and chastised a patron who had failed to wipe his face after eating what appeared to be an empty plate of spaghetti.

She jumped at the sound of metal falling on asphalt, her head following the noise to her left. Perched atop a stepladder, a large trucker wearing a green mesh ball cap gave a big rig’s engine housing a light punch, and then looked down at the large wrench he had dropped on the ground. His arms were filthy and he was covered with sweat as he attempted to repair the apparently immobile vehicle. He leered at Sonata, and pointedly looked her up and down. Just as he was about to open his mouth, he clapped it shut and retrieved his wrench.

Opening the door, a cheap aluminum bell signaled Sonata’s arrival. “Hello there! May I help you?” asked a cheerful clerk with laboriously curled green hair held back by a black hair ornament with silver spikes.

Sonata jumped and placed a blue-hued hand to her chest. “I’m sorry! You startled me, because you reminded me of someone.” Stroking her chin, she examined at the cashier’s friendly face and her familiar hairstyle. “Say, maybe you’ve seen her. She’s tall, beautiful, and has curly orange hair that reaches past her waist. Her skin is tinted yellow, and there’s no way you’d ever forget her voice.”

The green-haired young woman smiled and nodded enthusiastically. “Oh, yes! That’s her! She came through here last night and made such an impression on me that I asked for some overtime to pay for this new hairstyle! She did an amazing job of putting that trucker in his place, and the way she said it made all of us girls laugh. It serves him right that his truck broke when he tried to leave. She was incredible, but I never caught her name.”

“Her name is Adagio, and I’ve known her almost all my life. I have to find her before she makes a really bad mistake,” said Sonata breezily. She snapped her fingers and pointed at the cashier. “Hey, I know how you can help me! Do you happen to have a good map of the roads around Lake Piebald? I’m looking for something that’s better than what you can get on the computer.”

The smiling clerk began to rummage underneath her counter. When she crouched down, only the brand-new spiked hair ornament was visible. Her voice floated up to Sonata. “Um, it’s a mess down here, ma’am. Go take care of your other business, and give me a couple of minutes to find what you’re looking for. I really want to help you help your friend.”

“Thank you very much! I really appreciate it. You have no idea how much trouble she’s in, so I’ll be right back!” said Sonata brightly.

After using the restroom, Sonata looked longingly at the microwaveable tacos and burritos. She shook her head and instead selected three of the potent energy drinks that Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash preferred. For dinner, she grabbed a handful of energy bars, and added a large plastic-wrapped muffin coated with chocolate chips for dessert.

Approaching the counter again, Sonata noticed that the cashier had been joined by the waitress, who both grinned at her. The clerk turned to the waitress and teasingly pushed her shoulder. “See, I told you!”

“So you know that girl we met yesterday. What did you say her name was?” asked the waitress, who had folded her arms across her chest and raised both her eyebrows.

Sonata answered, “Her name is Adagio, and she’s not from around here,” When she caught the waitress admiring the clothes that Elegant had provided her, she added, “May I ask your name?”

Nervously wiping her hands on her apron, the waitress chuckled. “You can call me Cloudy. I’m sorry for staring, because we don’t get too many gorgeous young women passing through here this time of year. To have two in one week creates a lot of conversation. Adagio’s looks and sharp wit made quite the impression on my young friend.”

The cashier interrupted by proudly pushing a neatly folded map across the counter. “I found it! It’s the best that I could find. The thrill-seekers and spelunkers swear by this type of map. Only the military has anything that’s better.”

“Thank you, Emerald,” said Sonata cheerfully, looking down at the cashier’s nametag. “Your hair looks beautiful, by the way.”

Cloudy laughed good-naturedly. “She talked about your friend for hours after she left last night, so the moment the salon opened this morning, she insisted on a new look!” Emerald blushed to the tips of her green-tinted ears.

Setting down a hundred dollars on the counter, Sonata stealthily winked at the clerk and rescued her by changing the subject. “I’ll need forty dollars in gas along with these snacks, but please keep the change so you don’t have to work so much overtime.”

“Wow, what a great surprise!” Emerald quickly rang up the other items and handed a full bag across the counter. “I hope your friend Adagio is alright and you get there in time to stop her from screwing up.”

Leaning over the counter, the Siren gravely looked at both women and said, “I do too, but now I have to hurry! Thank you very much.” She opened the door, then suddenly turned back towards the counter and tapped the center of her chest with a blue-tinted finger. “I want to make sure that you knew that my name is Sonata. It was great meeting both of you!”

As the door closed, Sonata’s sharp ears heard Cloudy mutter, “That Sonata’s something else. Running after Adagio? I wish someone had done that for me before I ran off to Las Pegasus and married my ex-husband!” The closed door muted the two women’s laughter.

As Sonata filled the convertible’s gas tank, she spread the detailed map out on the hood. She peered intently at the area showing the battlefield and ranger station. Her lilac eyes narrowed in concentration and her fingers traced barely perceptible contour lines and unfamiliar icons.

After cross-referencing her findings with the map’s legend, Sonata stabbed her finger down on a spot right on the edge of the battlefield. “Aha! Perfect! This maintenance road will save me about an hour of walking from the campground across the battlefield. I’m sure I can find them from this point, no matter which cave they picked. Rarity’s not going to like it if I trash her suspension on a dirt two-track, but this is a matter of life and death!”

She carefully folded the map and stowed the gas pump. Sliding behind the wheel, Sonata glanced back and checked to make sure Scorpan’s pitchfork hadn’t damaged Rarity’s upholstery. The tool’s handle rested against a small backpack, which contained meager supplies, Sunset’s journal and the Aquastrian history book. She started the engine, cranked up the radio and turned back on to the road to Lake Piebald.

As Sonata depressed the accelerator, she thought, Hang on, because I’ll be there soon, everyone! Adagio, you’d better not fall into Leviathan’s trap and fasten the collar around your own neck by killing those girls. I’ll find a way to show you the truth and keep you from becoming a slave yourself!

Discord’s current costume made him appear like a disaffected teenager. He was wearing steel-toed boots, cargo shorts, a T-shirt with the text “Rage Against the Undead” written on it and topped off the outfit with a flat-brimmed Canterlot Corsairs ball cap. He produced a plaid-painted bullhorn from his backpack and fiddled with the buttons on the handle. His abnormally long tooth protruded from his mouth, which was twisted in a sardonic sneer. The rest of the group watched him with eager anticipation.

Sunset finished her ventriloquism spell and pointed at the Spirit of Chaos. “You’re on, Fangface!” She stuffed her fingers into her ears.

His scarlet eyes glowing with a mix of mischief and menace, Discord took a deep breath and brought up the bullhorn. He winked at Pinkie and intentionally blew into the microphone, producing a piercing, quavering squeal that echoed across the battlefield.

Discord chortled, pressed the bullhorn to his mouth and called out, his voice dripping with disdain. “Hello? Can you hear me? Hopefully your hearing aids are working properly, I'd hate for those old ears to miss anything! Oh, it's such a pity I can't hear you, though, Cassiopeia. Your singing voice must be devastatingly loud by now, and after so many centuries trapped in stone, I don’t desire an additional headache. Since your change in occupation, I’ve noticed that you can’t ever seem to hit the right note! Did the pay cut force you to stop the voice lessons, Cassiopeia?” Discord turned around and waggled his eyebrows at the group. Their giggles and broad smiles signaled approval. Sunset removed her right index finger from her ear and pantomimed a wheel turning, urging the Spirit of Chaos to continue.

“You won’t succeed, you know.” His outfit shifted to a martial arts gi, complete with a black belt embroidered with pink butterflies. Brandishing a katana, Discord shifted his tone from sarcastic to arrogant as he cut the air with the weapon. “We’re slicing through your horde like ginsu knives and will be at your cave shortly. You were such a great strategist! Well, that’s not the truth. You were great until you got angry. Cassie, are you angry at me? Angry that I saw right through this feeble mess you call a 'plan?' Or perhaps are you upset that I have helped a new Element Bearer realize her potential? Well, if you tell me a secret about Adagio, I’ll tell you one about Sunset! Come on Viceroy, surely you can confide in your Emperor for old time’s sake!”

Pinkie, her blue eyes shining with delight, jumped up and down in place while she covered her ears. As her pink curls bounced, she bit her bottom lip in a concerted effort to let Discord complete his taunting. Adding to the mirth, Aria playfully bumped Pinkie in mid-air with her hip, inducing more giggles from the rest of the group.

An easel with the message “Listen to this one, girls!” appeared next to the Spirit of Chaos. His fang shifted from one side of his mouth to the other, and he smiled broadly as scathing insults continued to pour from his mouth. “Raven, you could never get past your teeny-tiny imperfections, but now they are so much worse after a thousand years of wear and tear! Your hair is as limp and lifeless as your skeletal legs. Even before your big change, without the little toys that you cobbled together, your unicorn magic was so weak you couldn’t boil water or lift a whisk broom!”

Sunset broke the silence with a loud whoop of laughter. Tears spilled from her eyes while she stomped the ground with her left boot. The others immediately joined in the hilarity, but Discord silenced them with a sharp gesture of his hand across his neck. The easel’s message changed to “And now, to honor Equestria, I give you the grand finale!”

Discord’s laughter caused him to make two false starts before he finally vocalized a devastatingly derisive insult. “Oh, wait! I know why you decided to go from unicorn to banshee! Cassiopeia, I think that Vecna may have actually done you a favor by matching your external appearance to what was inside you. See, even I figured out the truth! Even before you took on your bony new form, your nethers were full of spiderwebs and dust!”

Upon hearing the incredibly personal insult, all seven females transformed initial shock into roars of laughter. Discord encouraged them by dancing an impromptu jig.

“What? It's not my fault that area never got used! Are you upset at me, Raven? Are you? Oh, I can't wait to hear what you have to say for yourself! Well, if you can even find me with those dusty old eyes of yours, that is! Peace, out!” He dropped the bullhorn and it fell to the ground. The spell ended with the entire group of eight roaring with glee and the young women applauding Discord’s masterful performance. He took a bow, and transformed his clothing back to his camouflage attire.

Sunset patted Discord on the shoulder and looked up at him admiringly. “That was a great one about Raven not being able to move a whisk broom with her magic!”

“Darling, the bit about her private parts being all dead and dusty had to have struck home. Wherever did you think of that?” asked Rarity, as she and the others pressed closer to the Spirit of Chaos.

Satisfied that the bandage on her back had stopped her minor bleeding, Rainbow Dash spun her quarterstaff and tossed her prismatic forelock. “You’ve got to teach me how to do that! It would be so, um, epic! Yeah, epic!”

Applejack rolled her eyes at Rainbow Dash, then checked her lariat and picked up her sickle. She asked Discord, “Well, do you think it worked?”

The red light emanating from Discord’s eyes winked out and his self-satisfied expression promptly changed to worry. He furrowed his brow, stroked his beard and said, “We will know immediately.”

“Um, what do you mean ‘immediately,’ Discord? I don’t like the sound of that,” said Fluttershy, readying her bow and adjusting her quiver.

Chainbreaker began to stir in Aria’s hands, its buzzsaw squeal whispering over the top of the earthwork. “I think it means that if Raven took the bait, we have seconds instead of minutes.”

At the foot of the redoubt, amid the corpses of the undead felled by Fluttershy’s radiant arrow, a sphere of darkness began to build. Pinkie held her handaxe in front of her defensively and noted the obvious. “That doesn’t look good!”

“I think you should cast that undead ward now, Element Bearer,” advised Discord, who had added a thick set of earmuffs to his ensemble.

Sunset plucked a snow-white alicorn feather from her bandolier, and paired it with a purple one. She clasped her hands together with both foot-long plumes touching one another, and spoke more to herself than the others as she concentrated. “Celestia’s radiant power and Twilight’s purity…”

A ray of green-blue light shot from the Element of Redemption and twisted itself around both alicorn feathers, which became the center of a dome of white light. The ward continually shimmered with veins of each color of the rainbow as it solidified. The feathers had transmuted into a long, helical-shaped candle that was stuck into the ground. It had one white twist and the other was a vibrant purple, while its flame remained linked to the amulet around Sunset’s neck by an arcane ray of light.

All eight members of the party clustered close to Sunset and ensured that their entire bodies were protected by the powerful magic shield. The translucent dome covered an area roughly thirty feet across and reached nearly ten feet above their heads.

“Excellent work, Sunset! I don’t think Princess Celestia herself could have done any better.” Discord sighed with relief. “Anything less would have been a catastrophe, by the way.”

Aria frowned and shushed the Spirit of Chaos. “Don’t you see how hard she is concentrating? Don’t distract her! Thank her later.”

“Oh my God! What is that?” shouted Rainbow Dash. Her purple eyes were wide with fear as she pointed to where the sphere of darkness had resolved itself into a terrifying humanoid figure. The magical protection blurred and obscured their vision somewhat, but nothing could conceal the frightful creature taking shape within the ball of shadow.

Twenty feet below them, Shrieking Raven appeared. Unmasked, her skeletal form was barely recognizable as the Canterlot High School literary teacher, except for the way that she imperiously stepped forward with the gaze of her flat black eyes drilling into each and every living soul atop the redoubt. Her claws held no weapons, but her many bracelets rattled as she flung her arms outward. The robe she wore sucked in one of Sunset’s overhead globes of light, trapping it into a dark spiral that circled the fringe of ninety-nine human scalps before being consumed. Raven leaned down and angled herself towards Sunset to ensure that she saw the horrifying unicorn skull atop her undead head.

Without warning or preamble, the banshee screamed in rage at Discord, demonstrating her hatred for all living things.

The wave of negative energy buffeted the protective shield. Sunset gritted her teeth and stared into the flame of the candle she had created to keep Raven’s terrible necromantic power at bay. Grunting from the strain, beads of sweat dripped from Sunset’s forehead down her temples. The wave of dissonant darkness passed over the dome, which continued to gleam brightly.

Raven’s unnerving laugh rasped up to the top of the redoubt. She furiously jabbed a finger at Discord. “I have suffered your insults for the last time, ungrateful Spirit of Chaos! You are vulnerable here, far from your home, and I will use your dying essence to catapult me to unparalleled power.”

“Ah, Cassiopeia, you must have left your strategic brain in your other skull!” Discord rolled his eyes at the banshee. “You must not have observed that we are at an impasse. Sunset Shimmer holds you at bay and you have just loosed your hideous shriek to no effect.”

Raven wrapped her magical robe around her tightly. “We shall see, Discord.” She gestured to the entire group atop the earthwork. “Class, permit me to re-introduce myself, since this will be your final lesson! I am Shrieking Raven, the Herald of Vecna in this pathetic little world. I come armed with the knowledge of centuries, and I bear dark magical artifacts beyond compare. The lesson that your mongrel companion never learned is that all things must die, and that by seizing the power to control death, one may then control all eventual outcomes!” Raven’s maniacal laughter had all the musicality of fingernails scratching against a slate chalkboard.

Fluttershy bravely stepped forward and raised her voice, but carefully remained inside the protective shield. “You’re wrong, Raven! It doesn’t always make sense, but life and nature always find a way to thrive by working together.”

Striding up the side of the redoubt, the banshee malevolently stared down Fluttershy. As Raven neared the shield, Fluttershy’s fragile courage broke and she hid behind Discord, pressing her face against his back to avoid the fearsome monster’s gaze.

Raven threw back her head and laughed derisively. “Discord, if this timid animal-lover is your great defender, you are truly doomed. But then again, it makes sense. Fluttershy has always preferred creatures like you that are furry and easily manipulated.” Discord’s eyes began to glow, and he clenched his teeth angrily.

“Don’t let her do it to you, Discord! Look at something funny instead. Ooh, I see how her eye can twitch even though there’s no muscle there, which makes me giggle. Come on, man! Turn that growl into a smile!” Pinkie grinned absurdly and gripped both of Discord’s hands. He glanced down at her and the crimson light emanating from his eyes dimmed.

Circling the shield, Raven looked at each of them one by one. Chainbreaker’s unearthly warning was the only audible sound. After completing her circuit, the banshee pointed a claw at Sunset and feigned disappointment. “Sunset, why didn’t you demand that Twilight take you back home after your great victory at the Battle of the Bands? This isn’t your world. You should have returned home to Equestria to gallop through the meadows once more.”

“I won’t abandon my friends when they need me!” Sunset kept her teeth clenched and concentrated on keeping the ward in place. She ignored the banshee’s gaze, even as dark magic began to collect around the skeletal unicorn’s horn.

The undead monster tut-tutted and shook her head. “You always were a poor student, Sunset. In that, Celestia and I must agree. You are more given to intuition and action, instead of putting in the difficult, solitary work of study. Where will this hunch lead you, I wonder? What will happen if you are wrong?”

“I’m here, so I’m guessing pretty well, aren’t I? Let's just say my actions are speaking louder than my words these days.” The Element of Redemption flashed briefly with an additional surge of magic.

Raven sneered and a ray of violet-tinged darkness shot forth from her helmet, leaving a small, dark stain on the radiant dome. She cautiously extended a finger and touched the black spot. Suddenly, the smell of burnt paper filled the air. Raven howled in pain, and then extinguished her burning finger by wiping it on the damp grass. “You passed this test, Sunset Shimmer, but more await!”

Emboldened by the fact that the shield had held, Rarity tossed her hair and asked, “You had doubts?”

“Ha!” The banshee’s head whipped around, transfixing the fashion designer. “You think I didn't see all those glances you have stolen? Is this displaced unicorn really the one you hoped would fill the emptiness in your life, or is she merely the latest shiny object to attract your fickle attention? Forfeit your sister and flee if you want to live.”

Wrapping her fingers around Rarity’s hand to stop it from shaking, Applejack attempted to draw the monster’s attention. ”She would never abandon her sister, and neither would I!”

“Yoo-hoo! Cassie! Your scream can't kill yet or you wouldn't even be here trading words with us. You’d be spending your Saturday night boring the life out of beatniks at poetry night or some such thing. I suspect that you’re burning through your magical baubles at an alarming rate to make sure this little gambit pays off. After all, you’re trapped here just like the Sirens were,” said Discord, who had returned to top sarcastic form.

Raven hissed with rage. “Silence, fool! As much as I’d love to finally tell you how I will artfully craft your death in as much insulting detail as I can muster, I have a queen to crown and then betray.”

“Adagio!” Aria brandished Chainbreaker and stepped to the edge of the shield, her violet eyes narrowed with controlled anger. “What lies have you told her?”

Raven looked down at the magical weapon. “That is a pretty tool you hold, but was the making of it worth the price, Siren? How much longer can I call you that before you are merely another human girl?” Aria snarled. The banshee shrugged her shoulders beneath the hideous robe. “I can’t help the fact that Adagio sees only the truth she wants to believe. She will indeed become Queen of the Aquastrian Empire, but her reign will be measured in moments, as her power is transferred to me. The domination of Shrieking Raven will span eternity and fuel a glorious spiral of death that will consume world after world!” She spread her arms wide and cackled madly.

“Can someone spell delusional? You might think this whole villain exposition thing is awesome, but the only thing you’re doing is telling us just how crazy you are!” taunted Rainbow Dash as she banged the end of her staff on the ground.

“Turn back from this path, Raven. It can only end in your destruction. You have so much knowledge that you could share if you turned away from evil,” Sunset’s eyes flicked up momentarily, making an emotional appeal. Meanwhile, the powerful spell she continued to control communicated a clear threat to the banshee.

Raven twisted the large onyx stone that topped a ring she wore on her left hand. She forcefully mocked Sunset. “You waste your breath, foolish filly! I revel in the fact that I am far past any redemption, Element Bearer. I take great pride in the murderous acts I’ve committed in the service of Lord Vecna! I have made my choices and cast my lot. The glory or consequences of my decisions are at hand after centuries of planning. I will either rule this world or be cast into the void of oblivion as the price of failure!”

“Then it ends here!” shouted Discord. His hands began to glow with a golden aura.

The banshee beckoned with her claw. “Come to my embrace, Discord. Will you finally make a decision with permanent consequences? What will you choose? Will you stop me or save the girls? You have to pick one, because you are too weak to do both in time.” She laughed derisively. “Twilight, in her naiveté, equipped her champion poorly, but what else could I have expected from a fledgling princess who believes that friendship will win every fight?” Raven removed the ring from her left hand and threw it over the dome to the other side of the redoubt.

“We will do both!” Sunset’s determined voice was passionate and commanding. “For most of my life, I desired only power and cultivated my ambition. Thanks to the bravery of my friend, who is that same naïve, fledgling princess, I abandoned the dark path before it was too late, and I have learned to trust in my friends. We will stop you, and prevent Adagio from killing the girls!”

Raven raised her right hand to her hideous helmet in a salute. “Then the battle is truly joined. Make your choice, and doom your friends accordingly.” She spread her arms wide as a sickly green glow illuminated the area where she had tossed the ring. “Here is something to occupy your thoughts that may render any decision moot!”

A burst of necromantic energy dazzled the living, while a horde of undead burst from the forest, and a second wave clambered out of the ground on the opposite side of the earthwork. Over a hundred undead began to climb towards the shimmering dome.

“Catch me if you can! I’ll be waiting for you amongst the dead.” Raven, cackling madly, fidgeted with a bracelet and she floated over the treetops on a direct line for the cemetery.

Rarity’s blue eyes pleaded with Fluttershy, and her voice was near panic. “Use one of those glowing arrows, darling! They’ll be upon us in seconds.”

“I can’t aim well through the shield, and I don’t want to waste one. I’m sorry, Rarity.” Fluttershy shook her head with resignation. She nocked one of the radiant missiles, but kept the bow pointed towards the ground.

Rarity stood guard over Sunset as she maintained the undead ward, while Discord, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, and Aria formed a circle around them, readying their weapons and spells.

At least four ghasts directed the shambling monsters up the hill. As they approached the shield, they put their arms in the air, directing the other undead to halt. The ghast closest to the top of the redoubt shook its head and pointed up to the sky. A translucent, vaguely humanoid shape floated above them. Its glowing yellow eyes betrayed intelligence mingled with hatred for all living beings. The flying creature dipped towards each ghast in turn, and then returned to its vantage point above the group’s radiant refuge.

“That is a wraith,” said Discord, speaking gravely. “Its touch will drain your life force with each strike. Only magic and magical weapons can harm it. This group will attack with great cunning until we destroy this awful creature.”

Abruptly and silently, the undead horde charged from all directions at once. Skeletons and zombies rushed the dome, immolating themselves in the radiant magic. As the creatures violently disintegrated around the companions, Sunset gasped and the purple-and-white candle flickered. She bit her lip so hard that she drew blood. “Do something, everyone! They’re trying to overwhelm the ward!”

With increasing desperation, the group’s weapons lashed out beyond the shield with little success. Rainbow Dash complained. “I can’t hit what I can barely see!”

Sweat poured down Sunset’s face, as the magical candle’s flame became increasingly wild. The conjured wax began to drip onto the ground, and the ward began to flicker. Overhead, the wraith wailed wordlessly, urging his troops forward.

Discord shouldered a giant, garishly decorated Roman candle, and Pinkie lit the fuse on its base. As flaming multicolored balls incinerated zombies and skeletons, he turned his head and shouted, “Sunset, it’s time to let your imagination take flight, before they overwhelm us!”

“Dammit, remember something happy!” she cursed under her breath. Closing her eyes and clearing her mind, a kind voice filled with confident wisdom sprang forth from Sunset’s memory to fill the void:

Sunset Shimmer, I see you’ve had a difficult day. Come to my private apartments after your lessons. I’d like to share some tea with you and introduce you to my pet. You have so many similarities, so I believe that she would like you very much.

“Yes! Of course! This way, I will become the weapon!” Sunset triumphantly shouted as she fumbled with the pockets of her bandolier. The magical fuel dripped in large globs and the candle threatened to tip over as still more mindless undead destroyed themselves in an effort to overwhelm the arcane shield.

Sunset produced a downy crimson feather with golden highlights. With increasingly confident fingers, she added one of Celestia’s large, snowy feathers and two of Luna’s dusky blue-gray feathers.

This is the only phoenix feather I have. If I can cast this spell, it will be the absolute limit of what I can do. I hope for all our sakes that it’s enough. Philomena, you made a terrified unicorn filly smile. I pray that you still remember me fondly, thought Sunset as she shifted her concentration to a new spell. The Element of Redemption shone with red-and-gold brilliance. Her pulse quickened, and her chest tightened as she drew upon every bit of Equestrian magic available to her.

The purple and white candle collapsed, but the shield didn’t fall with it. Instead, the radiant white dome transformed into an outward blast of yellow fire that consumed all of the zombies and skeletons close by, leaving the companions inside unharmed.

Barely retaining consciousness after the effort of casting such a powerful spell, Sunset issued a cry of triumph whose echo returned with a shrill avian edge. Transformed into a fantastic figure, she rose up from the circle of ashes created by her fiery blast. Wings comprised of red and yellow flame, seemingly attached to her outspread arms, spread outward over the top of the redoubt. The hood of her sweatshirt slipped free, exposing thick red-and-gold tresses that danced in an invisible breeze. As Sunset transitioned from a vertical orientation to a horizontal one, brilliant yellow motes of sunshine and fire spat forth from her body. Behind her legs, a blazing tail tickled the soles of her boots, while it mercilessly scorched the walking dead.

Aria thrust Chainbreaker into the air, saluting her friend, while sparing a moment to look up in awe. Her violet eyes reflected the majestic scene taking shape above her.

Discord snapped his fingers, and concentric circles of gooey taffy appeared around them, slowing the monsters’ counterattack. He waved wildly and shouted, “The phoenix rallies us! Form a circle around me and Fluttershy!”

As Sunset gained altitude, the flames warmed her friends, but didn’t harm them. The inferno was simultaneously attached to her and a part of her. Led by Aria, her companions cheered her while stabilizing their defense.

Sunset Shimmer clenched her fists and accelerated. Suffused with magic and possessed of unearthly beauty, she burned bright across the sky as she took flight to battle the wraith.

*****

Author's Note

In the United States, today is the start of Memorial Day weekend. I hope that you are thoroughly enjoying the characters’ desperate fictional battle, but I humbly ask you to take some time this weekend to reflect on the real-life heroes that gave their lives to preserve our right to the freedoms we presently enjoy.

Once again, I’d like to thank my forthright, dedicated and patient editing team! Their attention to detail and affinity for nuance gets better each and every chapter, which I know improves all facets of the story.

I truly hope that you take the time to write a comment, or that you send me a message to let me know what you think about this update! Please accept my deepest thanks for your support and enthusiasm. I know I say it after nearly every chapter, but repetition doesn’t weaken my sincerity (or my gratitude) one bit.

Chapter Twenty-Four

The wraith’s glowing yellow eyes flashed greedily as the purple and white candle began to fall over. Its thralls continually destroyed themselves against the protective ward, overwhelming its magic through brute force. The undead monster hungered for the life force of the eight individuals trapped inside, and it eagerly expected them to be defenseless in a few more moments. Moaning with anticipation, it floated down towards the top of the dome of light, when it felt an unexpected surge in magical energy. Reflexively retreating into the sky, the wraith howled as the radiant shield exploded into a blast of arcane flame that immolated dozens of zombies and skeletons. The incorporeal creature waited warily as one of the females harnessed the power of the flames and rose into the air.

Weaving through the air with a pair of fiery magical wings, Sunset Shimmer accelerated towards the wraith. She squinted her green-blue eyes to protect them from the brisk headwind her velocity created. The Element of Redemption, hanging heavily around her neck, glowed brightly as she readied an offensive spell to use against the wraith.

Sunset slowed to unzip a pocket of her bandolier, and while gliding on one wing, she deftly retrieved a handful of charred acorns. “It’s time to heat things up!” Her magic flashed, and the acorns took on a cherry-red glow, like the coals hidden deep in a long-burning fire. She stretched both arms wide again, and flicked one of the magical projectiles towards the translucent undead monster as she approached.

The wraith moaned, and avoided Sunset’s flaming tail with a burst of speed. Passing right through the creature, the acorn fell to the ground where it exploded into a ball of fire five feet wide. An incorporeal hand hooked itself into a claw, reaching for Sunset’s leg as she zoomed by. The near miss gave her chills, which caused her to lose altitude from the shock.

“I guess it’s not going to be that easy,” Sunset noted. She hovered at a safe distance, and concentrated on a simple but effective arcane attack. Five violet magical arrows streaked forth from her amulet, striking the wraith. The monster’s moans turned to hisses of pain as each eldritch missile struck it. The ghasts below looked skyward, while their advance bogged down in Discord’s conjured rings of taffy.

Sunset smiled when she noticed that the Spirit of Chaos had summoned four huge oscillating fans that kept the ghasts’ debilitating stench at bay. He took a bandana from his pocket and wiped his sweaty brow, poorly disguising his fatigue. Discord had rapidly organized an effective defense atop the redoubt. He and Fluttershy stood at the center of a circle that had morphed into more of a square.

Applejack and Rarity protected one side of the narrow earthwork, while Rainbow Dash and Pinkie stood opposite them. Aria, continually in motion, threw herself into the most dire situations, breaking the monsters’ charges before they truly began. Any ghoul or zombie unfortunate enough to get within arm’s reach quickly found itself obliterated by Aria’s weapon.

“Wherever Chainbreaker shines, that smelly cloud can’t go!” shouted Pinkie, pointing at Aria with her free hand. Her handaxe dripped with slimy ichor and had begun to dull.

The Siren and her pigtails twirled in a freelancing tornado of destruction whose arrival Chainbreaker heralded with its buzzsaw squeal and pale glow. Aria confined herself to the twenty-yard wide no-man’s land between the group’s defensive formation at the top of the redoubt and Discord’s first circle of sticky taffy. Her violet eyes blazing with fury and determination, she ignored the numerous superficial cuts that had opened on the exposed skin of her arms and shoulders. Applejack caught snippets of the song she sang as she fought:

Long roads the Sword of Fury makes
Hard walls it builds around the soft

“Keep singing, Aria! We’re turning the tide!” encouraged Applejack. She swung her sickle diagonally, and her powerful blow felled a zombie who reached out for Rarity.

Discord pumped his fist with excitement, and then turned to Fluttershy. “My dear, if we can take out the greater undead, we will break them. Until then, you must keep shooting where they cluster together. Oh, and keep more of an eye on Rarity and Applejack. Their weapons don’t have much in the way of reach.”

With the wraith briefly occupied by Sunset, the ghasts were racing one another to be the first to reach the living creatures fighting on the top of the earthwork. Rainbow Dash swept her staff across her corner of the square, knocking over two ghouls and a zombie. They rolled down the side of the man-made hill, causing a chain reaction that resulted in a dozen undead coming to a halt near the feet of a furious ghast.

Swiftly raising her bow, Fluttershy fired a glittering silver arrow for the second time that night. It lanced the ghast, which screamed in agony. The follow-up detonation caused by the “false dawn” effect wiped out at least two dozen undead.

“Nice shot, darling!” called Rarity, who dexterously danced to the side, dodging a ghoul’s claw. Before the beast could turn around to attack again, Rarity sprang forward and caved in its skull with a powerful two-handed blow from her brass club.

Discord clapped his hands together. “Let’s see if this will slow it down!” An iron ball-and-chain appeared around the wraith’s right leg. The magically-created impediment hovered in mid-air for a moment, then the monster shook free of the chaotic magic and the iron passed through the wraith’s body, falling to the ground and pulverizing an unlucky skeleton.

In the air, Sunset grinned as she shouted, “Nice try, Discord!” She dove towards the ground, and leveled off in time to make a strafing run against one of the ghasts. After tossing her handful of acorns at the pestilential creature, she spread her arms and regained altitude as the miniature bombs exploded, consuming the ghast in a fireball.

As she sped by Discord shouted back, “Oh, if I were young again and had boundless endurance! I can’t argue with your success, Baconhair!” He swapped his camouflage top for an old-style bombardier’s jacket and winked at Sunset.

The wraith, still smoldering from Sunset’s initial attack, was singed by another pass from her fiery tail. As she banked for another pass, the wraith darted down towards the group atop the redoubt, its misty hands reaching out for Rarity. Aria shouted a warning, and sprinted up the hill, but she couldn’t intercept the attack in time. Fluttershy, her teal eyes wide with worry, let fly an arrow topped with an eight-pointed star. It struck the monster with a burst of silver energy, causing its dive to deliver only a glancing blow to Rarity's left shoulder instead of a direct hit.

The fashionista let out a shrill scream as pain and shock spread through her body. “It’s so cold!” She dropped to the ground as her anguish overwhelmed her, and the remaining ghasts reorganized the undead counterattack. Applejack dropped to a knee and touched Rarity's cheek for an instant, then rose with her sickle already in motion, fully prepared to defend her fallen companion from any further injury.

Discord harshly swore under his breath as he snapped his fingers. After the white flash subsided, he cradled a writhing four-foot long shark that had a strange technological device attached to its head. He aimed the shark up into the sky, and the device emitted a bright red beam of light that passed right through the wraith. Cursing again, using still greater creativity in his profanity, Discord engulfed the shark in a tiny cyclone that disappeared up into the sky.

By casting the same “magic missile” spell that had wounded the creature earlier, Sunset drew the wraith’s attention. “Yeah, that’s right! Come after me!” She hovered and reached behind the bandolier and gripped the simple silver dagger forged by Vulcan Anvil.

The wraith’s yellow eyes seemed to narrow for a moment. It faked an attack at Sunset, and then made a steep dive for a second run at Rarity. This time, Aria stood ready, with her teeth clenched and weight impeccably balanced. At the perfect moment, she lashed out, and Chainbreaker struck the wraith in its chest, knocking it to the earth. Despite its ethereal nature, the force of the blow caused the monster to bounce on the ground twice before resuming shaky flight towards the incapacitated fashion designer. Tendrils of mist trailed from the creature as it hungrily reached out for Rarity’s throat.

I won't let you hurt her again!" cried Sunset. Acting quickly, she weaved a pinch of gem dust into a mystical charm that slowed the wraith's progress. This gave Aria enough time to jump between the wraith and Rarity once more; with a throaty yell, she struck the wraith with a powerful upswing of Chainbreaker that launched the monster several yards into the air. Before the creature could recover, Sunset dove towards it with incredible speed and plunged her silver dagger into the wraith's incorporeal skull. Despite its simple appearance, the Equestrian-forged weapon's powerful dweomer pierced the undead monster, delivering a fatal blow. It shrieked in rage, and then evaporated into a green mist that swiftly dissipated.

The remaining undead numbered about three dozen, but all of them seemed stunned and confused by the loss of their leader. Applejack continued to safeguard Rarity, while Aria sprang down the side of the redoubt closest to the treeline. Her rich alto improvised a song that promised oblivion to the walking dead. Grunting with effort, she brought Chainbreaker down in an overhand swing that struck one of the two remaining ghasts on the top of its head. The monster vanished in a flash of white light. Surrounded by zombies and ghouls, Aria spun the magical mace in a desperate effort to protect herself.

With a clear shot at the last remaining ghast, Fluttershy nocked another of the radiantly glowing arrows and aimed carefully. Her pink tongue escaped the side of her mouth as her teal eyes narrowed with intense concentration.

Discord’s crimson eyes went wide in alarm. He waved his arms and protested. “No, Fluttershy, we don’t need--”

The arrow flew, striking its target and its potent shockwave destroyed most of the walking dead on the side of the redoubt where Raven had tossed her magical ring.

Fluttershy lowered her composite bow and looked up apologetically at the Spirit of Chaos. She chewed her bottom lip and said softly, “Oops. I’m sorry, Discord. I saw a chance to get them all at once.”

“It’s alright, Fluttershy. I just thought that we could prevail without wasting another one of those precious items. At a minimum, you prevented your friends from getting tired doing a whole lot of that,” Discord gestured towards Rainbow Dash who mercilessly finished off a zombie with a flurry of hits from her quarterstaff.

A howl of pain interrupted Aria’s singing. In her haste to destroy the ghast, she had placed herself in the center of a gathering of undead. She winced and clutched at a claw mark on her left leg. Three thin lines of red showed where the ghoul had torn through her pants near her knee. With Aria’s balance reduced, Chainbreaker’s motion became weaker, less regular and easier for the monsters to dodge.

Pinkie wrapped herself into a ball and somersaulted down the side of the redoubt. Her handaxe jutted out to the side, appearing as an axle of a ferocious pink and black wheel. “Express elevator, coming down!” she screamed enthusiastically as she rolled.

Simultaneously, Sunset flapped her flaming wings and followed the contour of the redoubt. As she approached Aria’s position, she slowed to give her tail a better chance to burn the monsters threatening the Siren. “Aria, hit the deck!” warned Sunset.

The rapidly approaching avian form’s inferno reflected in Aria’s widening violet eyes. Without a response, she obeyed Sunset’s order, falling prone to the turf. A half-dozen undead greedily rushed her, and found themselves suddenly incinerated by phoenix fire.

“Which one did-done-dood it?” asked Pinkie as she seamlessly leapt from her somersault to a standing position. “Was it this one?” A sideways two-handed stroke of her handaxe decapitated a zombie, and sent its head flying into the woods.

Aria smiled and crushed a skeleton with an awkward strike from Chainbreaker. “Take out the one that needs a manicure behind you, Pinkie. Don’t let it hit you! The mace’s magic was the only thing that kept me from being paralyzed. It still slowed me down a bit.”

Facing down the last remaining ghoul, Pinkie’s poofy curls stuck out from her black bandana in a dozen different directions as a terrifying grin spread across her face. “Now, we can do this the hard way or... well, actually there's just the hard way!”

Aria roared with laughter while dispatching another skeleton. “Good plan, Pinkie! I’ll keep these annoyances off of you while you work.”

The ghoul’s claws lashed out and Pinkie parried the attack with the handle of her handaxe. She bounced out of the way of the monster’s counterattack, and slashed its knee. “I had seven cans of Creature with Extra Sugar today! All you had to eat was dirt.”

Sunset hovered above the skirmish and briefly turned towards Rarity, where Applejack still stood guard over her. Fluttershy knelt beside the fallen fashionista, tending to her injury. Glancing back at Aria, Sunset cupped her hands to her mouth. “Do you have it under control down there?”

“We’ve got it handled!” answered Aria as Chainbreaker caused a zombie to vanish in an explosion of white light. A conjured lawn dart thrown by Discord felled the last zombie, leaving only a trio of skeletons for her to contend with. She waved Sunset towards the distant green glow. “Go see what Raven’s up to. Your spell can’t last forever!”

Pinkie lobbed off the ghoul’s right arm with a vicious chop. The creature groaned and attempted a desperate attack with its left hand, but Pinkie somehow jumped over the swiping claws, landed on her feet and threw the axe at her opponent. The weapon struck the ghoul in the center of its chest, ending its undead existence. “Oooh! That’s going to earn me a Brutality Bonus!” she squealed.

Sunset roared with laughter at Pinkie’s unorthodox victory over the ghoul, and saluted Aria with her dagger. She spread her wings, and set a course directly for the graveyard. Ahead of her, she saw the headstones arranged in neat rows, periodically interrupted by larger, exquisitely crafted memorials. A babbling brook meandered diagonally across the cemetery. Soaring a hundred feet above the ground, Sunset roughly estimated that the entire parcel of land measured about two acres.

She growled as she got close enough to see the corruption spread by Raven’s dark magic. Dimly illuminated by sickly green light, she saw that scores of beautiful headstones had toppled. Lovingly carved marble had fallen into open graves, and crushed the remnants of coffins and caskets. A circle of green mist pushed outward from a large, rectangular mausoleum near the back edge of the graveyard. About fifty yards away, the mist drew inward. Sunset growled, bared her teeth and executed a sudden, silent dive.

She’s destroyed such beauty and serenity, for what? Her own lust for power? Raven has perverted the bodies of innocent men and women into monsters for her own use. Forget redemption, it’s time for retribution! Sunset thought with barely contained fury. Her fiery appendages blazed even more brightly.

Standing at the base of a fifteen-foot tall statue of an angel carrying a wounded soldier, Shrieking Raven drank deeply of the necromantic mist, surrounded by gaping holes in the ground from which her makeshift army had started its unnatural life. Her eyes were closed, her arms were outstretched and her helmet’s terrifying horn glowed with unholy purple magic. The brook, contained by carefully landscaped white gravel, peacefully gurgled alongside the surreal scene.

Sunset returned her silver dagger to its hidden sheath. She sped towards the ground, and at the last moment before impact, she banked and climbed sharply, bringing her flaming tail into play. An instant before the blaze engulfed her, Raven’s black eyes snapped open, and she swiftly wrapped the Robe of Vecna around herself.

“Dammit!” swore Sunset, looking behind her. The banshee’s robe smoked, but she appeared uninjured.

Raven, imitating a high-pitched little-girl’s voice, cruelly mocked Sunset. “The little birdie is free from her cage. You tried to burn me, now feel my rage!”

Sunset, fleeing back towards the battlefield, sprinkled diamond dust into her hair as the Element of Redemption shimmered. As a pale blue sphere began to surround her, she said worriedly, “I hope that’s enough, because she’s going to—”

Sunset saw a cone of darkness emanating from the banshee’s head and braced herself. Raven’s focused shriek scrambled Sunset’s thoughts. The desperately cast protective shield deflected some of Raven’s foul energy, but the scream still struck her. She lost altitude, and her magical phoenix wings began to flicker.

Sunset formed a single coherent thought as the treetops approached, Slow down, Shimmer! Crash softly! She clipped a medium-sized oak tree and her wings winked out. As she fell, Sunset reflexively cast a physical protection spell, and then wrapped her arms around herself and the bandolier full of spell components. Branches snapped and twigs scraped her skin as the canopy of a maple tree surrounded her.

“Why does that banshee continually express her commitment to ‘keeping me safe’ by trapping me? To the Abyss with her!” Adagio shouted, and pushed on the curtain of pale light blocking the cave’s exit with both hands. It stretched like a sheet of rubber, but didn’t give way.

Scootaloo, recovering from Raven’s scream, woozily raised herself to a sitting position. She rubbed chunks of rock from her cheek with her bound hands. “Your cage is a little bit bigger than ours, but you’re trapped now too, Your Highness!” She twisted her lips sarcastically.

Running her fingers through her long orange curls and grabbing two fistfuls of hair, Adagio wheeled around and shook her head. “It wasn’t supposed to be like this!” Her magenta eyes glowed as she walked through the darkness between the blocked exit and the girls’ cage.

“Too bad, so sad!” Sweetie Belle’s mocking voice sounded so much like Sonata’s that Adagio had to look twice at the green-eyed girl to make sure of her identity.

Apple Bloom pressed her face against the bars of the cage, “What wasn’t it supposed to be like, Adagio? Is this where you try to tell us what a nice murderer you are?”

“Dammit, I’m trying to save as many of you as I can!” shouted Adagio. She kicked Raven’s wooden case across the cave, where it splintered against the far wall. “I want to rule my people, and perform the duty that I had been prepared for since birth. I’ve waited a thousand years to return home and fulfill my destiny. I despise all this death, but I could have never called He Who Swims in Darkness without Raven’s help. Don’t you see?”

Noticing that they were about to resume their argument with Adagio, Apple Bloom shushed her friends and replied, “No, I don’t see! What happened to you to make you think that killing is a rite of passage? This isn’t riding a bike or a first kiss! What sort of horrible childhood did you have?”

Adagio spread her hands imploringly, and her voice took on a desperate edge. “This plan is the culmination of all the lessons my mother taught me! By sacrificing you, I will relieve you of the burden of your mortal existence and the pain that goes with such a short, brutish life. Your spirits, like scores of merfillies before you, will fuel my Master’s magic. Another possibility is that the Master may grant you a special honor, and will transform you into Sirens. In either case, the three of you will directly serve a power greater than any you can think of!”

“Oh my God, I finally get it!” Sweetie Belle smacked her forehead with her bound hands. Her pale skin reflected the dim violet mist that had started to rise from the underground pool. She excitedly continued. “You haven’t been able to make your own choices, well, ever! That’s what the alicorn’s rainbow did to you! It didn’t defeat you. Raven is pushing you to this before you can truly realize my sister and her friends freed you!”

The Siren princess pointed imperiously at the cage. “No, you’re wrong! Mermares ruled Aquastria for generations. They ended strife and division beneath the seas. Once Sonata, Aria and I defeated the Equestrian ponies, my mother and I were going to…” Adagio looked into the pool and saw that the dark speck had become a blob that trailed ten inky strands behind it. She gulped and slumped her shoulders. “I just want to go home, and this is my last chance to get there.”

“I think you have to earn your way back. Father Scorpan told us about how our ancestors were cast out of paradise.” Scootaloo’s purple eyes blazed with zeal. “Well, from what we’ve heard from Twilight and Sunset, Equestria is the closest thing that I can think of as a perfect place. Sunset tried a shortcut last fall, and failed. Then, you tried your evil magical tricks last weekend, and you know how that turned out!”

Adagio sniffed and straightened herself. She removed the butterfly knife from her vest pocket and held it in the palm of her hand. “Can’t you see how miserable this awful burden of choice has made us all? We are wandering aimlessly in so much pain. In Imperial Aquastria, those that accepted their place were content and happy.”

“How are slaves happy, Adagio?” asked Apple Bloom. Despite the eerie purple glow building in the pool, she looked at the Siren through the cage’s bars with more pity than fear. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo gazed at their friend admiringly.

Rubbing her temples, the Siren princess quietly attempted an explanation. “Before the Empire, life beneath the sea defined itself as a constant battle. There was no society, only survival. The mermares changed that! We established order from chaos beneath the waves, and earned the approval of He Who Swims in Darkness. We thrived! Every creature knew its place from birth until death.”

“But, chaos isn’t bad! We just don’t understand it. What about the chaos of life or the chaos of love?” protested Apple Bloom.

Adagio smiled warmly at Apple Bloom. “Little one, you may have a chance to teach our people about them both.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” snarled Scootaloo.

Ignoring the interruption, the Siren princess took a step towards the cage and reached out to Apple Bloom with her free hand. “To become Queen, I must present my Master with three sacrifices. If you are not one of them, I want you to join me in Aquastria.”

Adagio’s invitation rendered Apple Bloom speechless. Her mouth worked silently, and her pupils dilated.

Sweetie Belle, tears welling up in her eyes, filled the silence with an angry screech. “You’re being played, Adagio! Let us go, and we’ll all run away! Didn’t you see that Raven started to attack you? I don’t think she will ever let you go back to your home.”

“Of course I was being played! I’m not a fool!” Adagio’s voice regained its cruel edge. “I tire of all this death, but I need three sacrifices to gain the power to defend my people from Raven and Vecna. Once I am linked to my Master’s magic again, I will possess immunity to Raven’s shriek. Do you deny her power? Are you more willing to sacrifice yourselves if you knew that it would save your world from her hideous magic?”

The three girls held to each other as best they could and fought back tears as the purple glow deepened. The oil lamp’s flame transformed from yellow to green.

Scootaloo lifted her head and sadly said, “We don’t know what else to tell you, Adagio. Killing us is wrong, and it will change who you are in an awful way. You must find another way to protect your people. If you can’t see what I believe in my heart, maybe someone else will get here in time to show you the truth.”

Defiantly narrowing her eyes, Sweetie Belle angrily spat at Adagio’s feet. “You didn’t even try to learn from Sunset! She found a way to go from bad to good, and helped both Aria and Sonata. If you kill us, we’ll haunt your dreams as long as you live.”

“I’m sorry, little ones, but I see no other way. Your myths speak of your deity interrupting a human sacrifice by providing an animal substitute. I suggest you ask for aid in your own way.” Adagio held her left hand against her body just below her navel, and walked uncertainly towards the pool. As she peered over the edge, she saw a dark violet eye blink in the inestimable distance.

Apple Bloom whispered to herself. “Why would you even think about taking me away from my friends and family, and then calling it a reward? I reckon that living life without choices or love is worse than death.”

Adagio turned around and dropped to one knee. She closed her eyes, wiped her hand across her eye and leaned towards Apple Bloom’s enormous bow. As the Siren opened her mouth to speak, terror twisted her stomach with nausea as a deep, terrifying and familiar voice interrupted her.

“Princess Adagio Dazzle, I approach after long centuries of dreamless slumber. I will grant you power to rebuild the Aquastrian Empire. What sacrifices do you offer me as tribute?"

Sunset opened her eyes and groaned. Several green maple leaves blocked her vision. She felt a warm, sticky substance on her face that oozed down her neck and flowed beneath her clothing. Her feet dangled in midair, and something held her in place by her shoulders and neck.

Oh no! I’m bleeding! she thought, concentrating on her breathing to keep from panicking.

“Don’t move, Sunny! Just hug yourself and your magic supplies. Discord’s going to try something.” Fluttershy’s soft voice drifted up to her from below.

For the first time in years, Sunset felt herself embraced in a telekinetic aura. She saw a golden haze through the curtain of foliage blocking her vision. She felt herself magically pulled a couple of times, and heard the Spirit of Chaos grunting from the effort. Sunset jerked forward and downward several inches, and then she heard a sharp crack from behind her.

“Oopsie!” Discord exclaimed. Sunset heard his fingers snap and saw a white flash through the leaves. The branch holding her broke and she fell downward, to bounce harmlessly on a small trampoline. “Under any other circumstance, I’d make an inappropriate joke about your diet, Sunset. But let’s face it, despite my best efforts, there’s not enough magic here for me to float you gently to the ground.”

Sunset, her vision still obscured, clumsily dismounted from the trampoline and it winked out of existence. She patted her hands all over herself. “Where did I get hit? How bad is it? Stop the bleeding!”

“Hold on there, sugar cube,” said Applejack, a bemused tone entering her voice. “We’re forgetting that you can’t see us. Let me get those leaves out of your face, and this will all make sense.”

The farmgirl plucked the green leaves away from Sunset’s face, and all eight of them erupted with laughter at the absurd situation. The remnants of a thirty-foot tall marshmallow dripped from the top of a large maple tree. Discord sheepishly shifted his weight from one foot to another while wearing a white shirt, gray trousers and an old-fashioned black-brimmed cap. His butterfly lapel pin cautiously poked its head out of the shirt’s breast pocket.

Pinkie, her chin tilted skyward, finished swallowing a huge dollop of sugar that fell from the treetop. “Mmmmm! Toasted marshmallow!”

“Well, she was on fire when she smacked into the tree, but I don’t believe that she even thought about cooking s’mores, Pinkie. Not everyone can walk away from such an epic crash and burn!” Rainbow Dash grinned at Sunset.

Walking unsteadily towards the group, Rarity stepped forward and gave Sunset a weak smile. “I’m very glad to see that your jacket ended up as the only casualty of that terrible fall!” Her teeth chattered and she wrapped her arms around herself, but visibly relaxed when Applejack placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

Sunset returned the smile and gave a nod towards Rarity. "I'm happy to see you're back on your feet as well." She gingerly untangled the shreds of her beloved leather jacket from the sticky marshmallow fluff that coated her from head to toe. A deep bruise on her right shoulder caused her to wince as she removed her arm from the sleeve. She sighed, and said, “Well, this jacket and I had a great run together, but I’m glad that it’s only my coat that got shredded and not my hide. Get it?”

Clapping his hands, Discord answered, “Good one! I’m glad your sense of humor didn’t get damaged by Raven’s scream!”

Aria, favoring one leg, used Chainbreaker as a lethal walking stick. The magical mace glowed brightly, but remained silent. She tossed her pigtails, and shrugged her shoulders. “Hey, look on the bright side. The branch that went right through the back of your jacket probably saved you from a broken leg! Maybe the tree protected you.”

“Before I forget, Sunny, you were amazing! I’ve never seen anything more beautiful in the air, and I’ve never heard something so majestic as the echo from your shout!” Fluttershy put her hand on Sunset’s sticky shoulder.

Applejack nodded, “I reckon we’ll never see anything like that again. You sure did a number on those monsters with that fiery tail of yours!”

Rarity, despite her obvious injury, bent down and picked up Sunset’s jacket. She held it at arm’s length, pinched between her thumb and forefinger. Narrowing her deep blue eyes at Discord, she dropped the ruined jacket at the base of the maple tree and asked, “Aren’t you going to do anything to clean up this mess?”

“Well, yes, we do have some business to conduct. Only one of us can tolerate being encased in sugar for a long period of time!” Discord winked at Pinkie, and he pulled a polka-dotted washcloth out of his pocket. Grinning, he snapped his fingers. The entire group found themselves cleansed of their marshmallow fragments, but the giant candy pillow remained stuck high atop the tree.

Motioning for everyone to huddle around her, Sunset searched for the proper items in her jostled bandolier. “I need to heal us before our next fight. Unfortunately, I have only two settings. I can go with an adhesive bandage or intensive care.”

“Perhaps a healing spell that’s meant more for disease than trauma would help Rarity the most?” asked Discord uncertainly. He raised a bushy white eyebrow. “This really isn’t my thing, after all.”

As her companions crowded in, Sunset brandished a mangled pink feather and a large blue-gray feather, and she began to concentrate. When Rarity pressed up against her, she gasped in surprise. She’s so cold! This spell is certainly the right decision, thought Sunset. The Element of Redemption glowed with a serene aquatic aura, and the feathers exploded into a wave of beneficial energy that washed over the group.

Color immediately returned to Rarity’s face, along with a vivacious spark in her eye. She hugged Sunset and whispered in her ear. “Thank you, darling. It hurt more than I dare tell anyone else.”

Pinkie oohed and aahed in wonder as she watched Aria’s wounds close before her eyes and disappear without a scar. Her own bruises vanished, causing her to bounce up and down with renewed vigor.

Spreading her arms as far as she could, Fluttershy crushed everyone that she reach in a hug so tight that her muscles quivered. “We’re going to win! We have to!” She spoke with quiet determination.

Sunset exhaled slowly as her own injuries healed. The magical aura surrounding the Element of Redemption winked out. “Take a moment to get yourselves together, everyone. Raven’s silent, but she’s not resting, and we have to get to the cave before Adagio hurts Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. I’ll meet you beneath the marshmallow tree.” She nervously fidgeted with her bandolier, tugged her thin sweatshirt down over her hips and began drawing in the dirt with a stick.

The group carefully picked up the items that they had dropped during their sprint to Sunset’s crash site, and she watched them converse quietly as they checked one another’s equipment. Fluttershy tightened the straps on her belt quiver and watched Discord closely. Rainbow Dash frowned at one end of her quarterstaff and gave it an angry twirl. Smiling, Rarity tweaked the brim of Applejack’s hat. Pinkie giggled, and leaned down to peer through the holes in Aria’s pants.

Discord, who had resumed wearing three types of military camouflage, followed Sunset. He reached out and gripped her shoulders without saying a word. Pointedly looking down at the pockets of her bandolier that were open and empty, he said, “You just used Princess Luna’s last feather, and I also see you’re starting to run out of your other spell components, though I’m impressed that you protected what you have so well during your crash landing.” He looked both ways and furrowed his brow. “You’re very lucky you weren’t killed, you know. That would have been quite unfortunate, because I’ve grown very concerned for your well-being. What possessed you to take such a risk?”

“I’ve never been so filled with magic as when I cast those three spells, Discord. Completing the undead ward, protecting us with the outward blast of sunfire and finally my transformation gave me so much joy that I thought I could do anything. Well, that’ll teach me. The wraith hurt Rarity very badly, and I ended my first flight up in a tree.” Sunset shrugged her shoulders, shook her head and apologetically looked up at Discord. “It’s what we all have to learn, don’t we? We can’t do it all ourselves, and each of us has a part to play. By the way, thank you for saving my life, even if the way you did it made an enormous mess.”

As the others clustered around the roots of the maple tree, the color bled from Discord’s clothes and his crimson eyes glimmered with determination. He glanced at Fluttershy, and then finished his conversation with Sunset cryptically. “You’re very welcome, but forgive my preoccupation. The banshee is my responsibility. I caused this problem ages ago, and I must fix it.”

Sunset sniffed, and cupped Discord’s cheek as her eyes became misty. “I think I understand, but responsibility doesn’t mean doing it on your own. Twilight taught us both that.” The Spirit of Chaos hesitantly nodded his agreement.

“I hate to interrupt a tender moment, but in case you had forgotten, we’re sort of fighting for our lives, here.” Rainbow Dash looked down at the ground. “Tell us about this drawing.”

Muscling forward while using Chainbreaker to part the crowd, a newly reinvigorated Aria said, “You’re right, Rainbow Dash. We can snuggle later, preferably with the warm beverage of our choice. We’ve got work to do. Sunset, does this diagram show us what you saw from the air?”

“Yes, Aria. We’re doing great, by the way. It’s a miracle we’re all still mostly unharmed,” said Sunset, looking into each of their eyes.

Rarity stretched her torso by rotating side to side. “We have your magic and Discord’s to thank for that. Now, tell us what we’re going to do next.”

“Thanks, Rarity. Well, everyone, we need to do what I most worried about. We have to split up,” declared Sunset. The others looked at her silently and confidently.

Discord grinned, gesturing to the group in surprise. “I expected at least some gasps, or protests or some reaction other than ‘bring it on!’”

“We trust Sunset, and you’re wasting time while my sister’s in danger,” said Applejack curtly. She pointed downward. “So, this big rectangle is the graveyard, right?”

Sunset smiled warmly at Applejack’s simple and unequivocal vote of confidence. “Yes, it is. The whole cemetery is an area about twice the size of Canterlot High School’s football stadium, field and track. A creek runs across the property here,” her stick traced a sinuous diagonal line.

“So where’s the anti-aircraft banshee?” asked Pinkie Pie ebulliently.

Her grin broadening, Sunset stabbed her pointer near the center of the diagram. “She set up shop here, and it seems like she’s absorbing all the green mist. The place is pretty trashed, with lots of open graves, so whoever goes there must exercise extreme caution. The necromantic engine must be here,” she poked the stick into the ground near the edge of the rectangle. “The green mist kept spewing out of a mausoleum along the back wall.”

Aria and Discord nodded at one another. Discord spoke first. “I must defeat Raven. I think this is what Luna tried to tell me before I stepped through Twilight’s mirror.”

“This weapon,” Aria lifted Chainbreaker, “exists to destroy monsters like Raven.” She turned to Sunset. “I need to do something to make my long life worth living. I’m going with Discord. Chainbreaker’s magic will protect us if we stay close together.”

Fluttershy flipped her pink braid behind her shoulder. Gritting her teeth, she leapt forward, fiercely grabbing Aria and Discord by their forearms. She looked deep into their eyes, and frowned. “No! I don’t like this sort of talk! I’m not going to let you sacrifice yourselves. I love those girls that Adagio is holding captive, but you two aren’t going into that graveyard without me!”

Tapping one end of her staff next to Sunset’s diagram and puckering her lips, Rainbow Dash made motions in the air with her finger, and then asked, “Who is going to take out that engine in the mausoleum?”

“What do you mean?” asked Sunset, who had been staring at Fluttershy, Discord and Aria.

Flashing a crooked grin, Rainbow Dash crouched down and re-tied her boots. “Listen, the three of you will have to stick close together to take out Raven. She knows how much I care for Scoots deep down, because she read my writing in class. Raven will see you three, and she’ll expect me to go straight to the cave with Rarity and Applejack. Face it, I’m the only one who’s fast enough to run around the graveyard, sneak in the back, and take out whatever is bringing the monsters to life.”

Sunset, stroking her chin, nodded her approval. “I know you can do this Rainbow Dash, but if she sees you, Raven’s scream will mow you down.”

“No risk, no reward, right?” Rainbow Dash smirked. “Besides, I know Discord can make one hell of a distraction, and that boring old teacher is sure angry with him.”

Cupping both hands over his chest, Discord feigned injury. “Touché, Rainbow Dash! You have wounded me with the truth! But, we need to go. Every moment we linger, the more power Raven acquires.”

Applejack pointed to the dark clouds gathering over the beach. “I think the girls are running out of time, too. Sunset, what else do you have?”

“I have two spells.” As the Element of Redemption glowed brightly in the darkness, Sunset tossed a handful of diamond dust into the air, which covered them all like a warm blanket. She followed it up by sprinkling granite fragments over each of her friends. “The first renewed our protection against evil, and the second made us a little more physically tough.”

Rainbow Dash started to jog towards the graveyard, and then suddenly turned around. She scratched her head and looked at Pinkie, Sunset, Rarity and Applejack in turn. “Um, guys? Just in case, make sure that you—“

“We will, sugar cube,” interrupted Applejack. “Scootaloo and the others will be just fine. You just do your job and don’t get hurt. We can’t have you missing the party that Pinkie will throw after this is all done.” She removed her hat and bowed her head in a brief prayer. Pinkie silently placed her hands on top of Applejack’s.

Fluttershy tugged Discord and Aria along, badly hiding the fact that she trembled with fear, and that tears poured down her face. “Discord was right! We have to go!”

Aria broke away from Discord and Fluttershy. She rushed back and hugged Sunset. “Thanks for believing in me. I couldn’t have done any of this without you.”

“You’re the one who took the first, difficult step. You turned away from Leviathan all by yourself. Now, go! Take the next step!” Sunset released Aria, and wiped a tear away. “One last thing, Aria…”

“What is it?” asked the Siren.

Sunset conjured the illusion of a small crescent moon above Aria’s head, which lingered for a moment and then dissipated. “I hope Luna is with you out there.”

Fighting back tears, Aria’s lip quivered as she answered, “I hope Celestia’s sun brightens that cave for you, Sunset.” She turned her back and caught up to Fluttershy, Discord and Rainbow Dash.

Sunset, Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie watched them until the path turned out of sight, and then began jogging toward the sand-and-gravel beach. A purple lightning bolt split the dark clouds overhead, followed by a soft roll of thunder.

Sonata closed the driver’s side door of Rarity’s convertible, locked the doors, and stuffed the keys into the pocket of her jeans. “Pitchfork, check. Backpack with important books, check. Courage…,” she looked at the reflection of her glowing pink eyes in the glass, “…I’ll work on that as I get closer to the cave.”

She curled her long ponytail over the buttons of her soft, ivory-colored shirt, and then walked around the simple barrier where the dirt maintenance road came to a dead end at the battlefield. The moonlight illuminated a series of small man-made hills about two miles away. Once she left the dirt road and cleared the forest, Sonata picked up her pace.

Father Scorpan was right! This actually does make a decent walking stick, thought Sonata as she gripped the pitchfork’s handle tightly in her right hand. Its rusty iron tines smelled like motor oil and old memories.

In the distance, she saw a white flash at the foot of one of the redoubts. A moment later, a brilliant burst of radiance dazzled her eyes, briefly turning night into day.

“They’re here, and they’re fighting with magic! Raven must be stalling them. I have to hurry!” Sonata awkwardly jogged towards the earthwork, but the weight of the books bouncing in her pack made running difficult. She frowned in frustration, and resumed a brisk walk with the tall grass tickling her legs.

Moments later, Sonata saw a streak of yellow fire blaze across the sky near where she saw the white flash. The fire danced close to the earth several times, and then rose skyward and receded. She rubbed the circular burn between her collarbones with blue-tinted fingers. As she touched the mark that the Element of Redemption had made upon her, Sonata’s eyes stared into the distance, and a vivid memory entered her mind.

*****
Over a millennium ago, during the Battle of the Crystal Glacier:

Sonata Dusk soared over the icy wilderness, screaming towards the bluff where the unicorns had assembled their final defense. The blue gem embedded in her chest pulsed with dark power, but still she hungered for more. The frigid air burned Sonata’s nostrils, numbed her hooves and chilled her fins as she inhaled and prepared to devastate the leading pony, a snowy white unicorn with an outrageously long gray beard. The first note of a debilitating song formed in her mind, and the Master’s furious power surged in her blood.

“Form ranks, everypony! Hold your ground, and raise your shields. We must defend the Field Mareshall, or all is lost!” called Starswirl the Bearded, as he calmed the chaos surrounding him.

The unicorn’s kind voice made Sonata stop. She thought, He sounds so much like my father, and he even has the same color of eyes as we do. Oh, I miss him so much! She let her breath go, hovered in place and listened.

Starswirl the Bearded rallied the unicorns against their terrible fear, as Aria Blaze and Adagio Dazzle wreaked havoc upon the earth ponies and pegasi. He calmly said, “This is Equestria’s darkest hour, though we are surrounded by sunlight and ice. Support Princess Luna, while I cast a spell that will protect us and our families for generations to come!” A lilac-colored magical aura sprang into being around Starswirl’s horn.

Sonata’s mouth fell open. Even at a significant distance, she felt the crackle of Starswirl’s magic, and she admired his regal figure in the blinding reflection from the nearby glacier. Her mind raced, The Queen and the Master are wrong! I’ve never seen a male so powerful. Is this how it is in the surface world?

In the distance, Starswirl saw Luna’s knees buckle from Adagio’s musical attack. The minor key of the Siren’s haunting solo inspired intense jealousy, but the unicorn retained mastery of his own mind. He never took his eyes from the Princess of the Night as he sang his most desperate and most powerful spell:

At Elysium in this fateful hour,
I call upon Paradise with its power,
And the sun with her brightness,
And the snow with its whiteness,

A tiny spot of darkness appeared on the immense mirror of ice in the center of the craggy battlefield. The unicorn stallion’s voice reminded Sonata of being wrapped in her parents’ fins as they furtively concealed their affection for each other, and she recalled the stolen moments when her father taught her to express her feelings through songs. Starswirl continued his musical incantation, and Sonata forgot to attack. She silently hovered in place, enthralled by the unicorn’s voice and mesmerized by his arcane power:

And the fire with all the strength it hath,
And the lightning with its rapid wrath,
And the wind with its swiftness along its path,
And the sea with its deepness,
And the rocks with their steepness,
And the moon with her hopefulness

The spot became a gaping hole in the glacier and magical forces lanced forth to strike the three Sirens. Aria and Adagio screamed with rage, while Sonata, torn between the emotions of her past and the hunger of her present, reached out with her hooves toward Starswirl, hoping only to hear the song’s climax:

All these I place
By the one I love’s power and grace
Between myself and the forces of darkness!

Starswirl’s horn flashed with lavender brilliance, and the glacier’s icy surface transformed into a liquid mirror.

“No! I want to sing with him! I want to stay!” screamed Sonata as the swirling vortex closed over her head. The darkness suddenly morphed into a tunnel of prismatic light that forcibly carried her, Adagio and Aria to a strange new world.

*****
Present Day at the Lake Piebald Historical Battlefield

Sonata returned to current reality when the yellow fire in the sky careened out of control and fell into the treetops. She cleared her head by shaking it, and then looked beyond the redoubts into the sky. Clouds immeasurably darker than the night sky gathered over where Lake Piebald must be.

“This time, I can’t just watch. I must fight!” Sonata tossed her ponytail, and she shortened the straps on her backpack until they were almost painfully tight. Gripping the pitchfork in both hands, she began to run across the battlefield. Purple lightning flashed in the dark clouds, fear clenched the Siren’s stomach, and despite it all, Sonata ran towards the danger.

As she huffed and puffed her way across the grassy expanse, she repeated three sentences like a mantra. “I must save those girls. I must save my new friends. I must show Adagio the truth!”

Discord, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Aria concealed themselves behind a low stone wall that divided the battlefield from the cemetery. Aria glanced over the top of the barrier, squinted her glowing purple eyes, and then quickly returned to cover.

“Did you see her?” asked Rainbow Dash. She sat straddle-legged in the manicured grass, stretching her legs. Her battered quarterstaff lay on the ground, resting on her left shin.

Fluttershy recounted the arrows remaining in her quiver, giving special care to the three radiant missiles that remained, and nervously said, “More importantly, did she see you?”

Aria put a finger to her lips. She whispered, “Quiet, you two. This will be a whole lot easier if we surprise her. She’s exactly where Sunset said she’d be, and I don’t think she can see us. Let’s get her!” Chainbreaker remained silent and its glow seemed muted, mirroring its wielder’s caution.

Discord’s military hat changed into an ancient leather football helmet. “I’d love to just sneak up on her and boop Raven’s skeletal nose, but it’s not going to happen, Handlebars! Those open graves will make for some awful broken-field running, and I have to distract Raven from our sprinter!”

“I’m ready to go, guys,” declared Rainbow Dash as she finished retying her right boot. “Let’s go over this one more time. My job’s easy. I cover the distance as fast as I can, and bash anything spewing a green cloud into tiny pieces, without getting noticed by my literature teacher, who is actually a deadly monster.”

The corners of Aria’s mouth lifted a tiny bit. “You’re on target, Rainbow Dash. The three of us will go single file through the cemetery and stick very close to one another. We need Chainbreaker’s protection, and we need to avoid falling into an open grave. I’ll fight Raven, while Discord and Fluttershy keep her helpers off of me.”

“I get to make sure that Raven keeps her dusty mouth pointed at the three of us instead of at Rainbow Dash. I’m very good at drawing attention!” Discord’s wrists each sported a half-dozen glowing bracelets. The butterfly lapel pin, oblivious to the garish illumination, comfortably napped directly above Discord’s military-issue nametag.

Fluttershy, breathing heavily, plucked one of Discord’s glowing arrows from her quiver, and held her bow in her lap as they continued to hide behind the stone wall. “All four of us are coming back from this, do you understand?” She jabbed a finger into Discord’s chest, and forcefully whispered, “That goes double for you, mister!”

“We’ll follow the brook until we get to Raven. There are fewer graves next to the water, so that means fewer opportunities to fall down,” said Aria, drawing their path on the wall with her purple-tinted index finger.

Discord waved a small green flag. “Get moving, Rainbow Dash! I’ll wait one minute and then start my distraction.” He removed his plaid-painted bullhorn from his backpack.

“No time like the present! We’re down a goal with five minutes to play.” Rainbow Dash stood and grabbed her staff. Her bravado slipped for a moment. “Stay brave and keep safe, you three. I thought I was scared when Sunset turned into a demon last fall. This is a whole different level of epic fear.” Before the others could respond, she bolted along the low stone wall.

Fluttershy snatched a large stopwatch out of Discord’s hand. She glanced at the second hand sweeping around the circle, and then asked, “What did you have planned for a distraction?”

Grabbing the stopwatch back from Fluttershy, the Spirit of Chaos snickered. He pulled the top knob out of the timing device with his teeth and threw the stopwatch towards the general area where Raven stood. “Fire in the hole!” he shouted, covering his ears.

“Since when did twenty seconds add up to a minute?” grumbled Aria as she leapt to her feet. “Follow me!” Her purple-and-teal pigtails trailed behind her as she accelerated. In the distance, the stopwatch exploded with a cartoonish flash. Raven shrieked preemptively, but the banshee was too distant to cause any injury.

Discord rubbed his hands together gleefully. “See, she’s a little too quick on the trigger! Aria, lead on!”

The trio zigzagged their way through the cemetery. Wherever they encountered the green mist, it gave them chills that had nothing to do with the spring night, but left them unaffected. Aria held Chainbreaker aloft like a torch, lighting the way. The banks of the brook were relatively free of graves and mostly flat, so they made excellent progress.

Raven’s raspy voice echoed eerily around them. “I sense your approach, Discord! There’s no escape from your mortality in this world.” Terrifyingly off-key, she sang a nursery rhyme:

Ring around the Rosie
Pocket full of posies
Ashes, ashes,
We all fall down!

The Spirit of Chaos gulped, and then brought his bullhorn up to his mouth. “Oh, posies! Please forgive me, Cassiopeia. I forgot to bring flowers to our grand reunion. How thoughtless of me!” He kicked a broken headstone as they jogged by. It collapsed into an open grave, creating a terrible racket as the marble fragments rained upon a heavily lacquered casket.

“What are you doing, Discord? You’re giving away our position!” hissed Aria as she glanced backwards.

Fluttershy trotted up to the Siren and nearly fell into an open grave. Aria grabbed her and pulled her to safety. Nodding her thanks, Fluttershy glanced back at Discord and softly addressed Aria. “He’s making sure she stays focused on us, and not Rainbow Dash. Right?”

The Spirit of Chaos nodded, and whispered, “Aria, I’ll keep her angry. She’ll slip up. Just ensure you make the best of your chance!”

Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash turned to her right at the corner of the stone wall marking the graveyard’s boundary. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and her deep breathing came rhythmically as she set an exhausting pace for the high-stakes race she ran.

Discord, Aria and Fluttershy emerged into a wide-open area dotted with several large memorials. The necromantic mist billowed around them. The brook, contained by banks of white gravel, gurgled insistently at their feet. It flowed towards a gleaming marble statue of an angel with a sheathed sword on her back cradling a wounded soldier in her arms. The phosphorescent green mist gave the statue’s beatific visage a sinister edge the sculptor had never intended.

Shrieking Raven stood in the clearing, grinning confidently. The helmet fashioned from a unicorn skull glimmered with evil magic that darkly reflected in the hideously fringed robe that clothed the banshee. Blackness trailed after her as she stepped threateningly towards Discord, Aria and Fluttershy. With caution no longer needed, Chainbreaker flashed brightly, and its warning rumbled deeply across the graveyard, creating a stark contrast with the weapon’s earlier buzzsaw squeal. Raven frowned at the weapon, while Aria warily watched the banshee.

Discord broke the silence. “Is it too late to settle this mess with a simple game of seven-dimensional chess?” He reached behind him into his pack and began unfolding a dizzyingly complicated gameboard.

A beam of violet magic lanced forth from Raven’s macabre headgear, disintegrating the cardboard in Discord’s hands. The banshee stared furiously at the Spirit of Chaos, her hands hooked into sharp claws.

“So, Sunset tried to have it both ways. Ha! She’s doomed you all. The three of you can’t possibly stop my ascension! Well, at least the dirt merchant, the conceited athlete and the whiny tailor will have the pleasure of dying with those they care about.” Raven reached into her robe and produced the bronze dagger with the blood-red gem crudely attached to the pommel. “After all, I know that Adagio won’t have the heart to change her mind once Leviathan makes his presence known. Her commitment to her people is admirable, but easily twisted in her desperation.” She returned the weapon to its sheath under the Robe of Vecna.

Aria bared her teeth. “Don’t look now, but you just pontificated again. That’s a bad habit. You’re a thief in addition to everything else, Raven. Adagio deserves to choose what she does with her shards. You had no right to them!” Anger flushing her purple-tinted cheeks, Aria strode forward and began spinning Chainbreaker. “We share one thing, banshee. We both underestimated Sunset Shimmer. At least I learned from my mistakes.” As soon as she finished speaking, she charged forward while winding up a powerful attack.

Grabbing Discord by his arm, Fluttershy dragged him forward and chased after the Siren. “Aria, wait! You’re getting too far—“

A flash of necromantic magic burst from Raven, and caused undead to rise from nearby graves. The banshee inhaled dangerously. Aria’s violet eyes widened with terrified realization, and she stopped her attack in the nick of time. She leapt backward, landed heavily on her rear end and bowled over Discord and Fluttershy. Piled upon one another, they desperately gripped the branch from the Golden Oak Library just before the banshee’s shriek washed over them. They all concentrated on the iridescent five-pointed star on the mace’s head, whose flickering light reminded them of a solitary candle in the darkness. The trio’s mind swam with brief snippets of memory that blocked out the horrific dissonance:

Fluttershy looked out at the tents and tables scattered across the Canterlot High School football field. Her bold friend approached three pretty girls wearing nametags. “So, this is the Freshman Fair, huh? Hey, you guys, I’m Rainbow Dash! This is my awesome friend Fluttershy. We went to elementary school together in Cloudsdale.” The group of five exchanged introductions, and Rainbow Dash patted her shoulder. “See, Fluttershy, I told you making friends would be easy here!”

A pale yellow hoof pressed a beautifully enameled and bejeweled pin of a pink-and-green butterfly into his paw. He leaned down and felt Fluttershy’s breath tickle his ear as she whispered, “…so you don’t forget about me.”

“Welcome, Aria Blaze. We have waited for you for a long time.” Lady Luna removed her cloak and set it on the boundary stone of the dreamscape’s village. She looked deep into Aria’s disembodied gaze, and interrupted the memory by spreading her dusky blue wings and unsheathing the two-handed sword strapped to her back. “This is your greatest test. Now rise, and fight!”

Surprisingly, Fluttershy recovered first from Raven’s scream. She noticed a wraith rising from one of the open graves. Headstones around the incorporeal creature fell over as other undead were brought to unnatural life nearby. “No, you don’t!” she shouted.

In one swift motion, Fluttershy brought her bow up. She aimed and fired one of Discord’s undead-destroying arrows at the wraith, skewering it before the evil spirit broke free of the earth. The secondary wave of positive energy drove the green mist from a large section of the graveyard, returning most of the undead to their rest. A group of ghouls survived and moved to defend their mistress.

“Yes!” Discord wriggled out of his backpack, and he leapt to his feet, screaming with delight. He held up his hands to the sky, causing thousands of ping-pong balls to rain down on Shrieking Raven, obscuring her vision. Helping Aria to her feet, Discord closed one crimson eye in a conspiratorial wink, and he shouted to the banshee. “Looks like you went from Vecna’s General to general admission in no time flat, Cassiopeia!”

The banshee stepped into an undisturbed cloud of green mist and fired a violet blast of destructive magic at Discord that struck ping-pong balls instead of its target. “My powers will permit me to try again in a few moments, Discord. I’ve noticed your endurance has diminished since you were petrified. Have you lost a step with age? How will you counter my magic next time? Know your companions will join my horde after they perish!”

Raven’s exposition left her open to Aria’s silent approach. At the last instant, the banshee flourished her gray robe, and caused Chainbreaker’s strike to miss. The creature countered with a dark blast of magic from her helmet that dissipated as the magical mace’s holy light shined upon it. Wordlessly, Aria and Raven circled the angelic statue. The banshee’s claws were ready to strike, and the Siren continued to swing Chainbreaker in a slow vertical circle.

Her lungs burned and her legs screamed in protest, but Rainbow Dash sprinted on towards her goal. She slowed and followed the wall around the corner to the back of the graveyard. The top of a series of large stone mausoleums were now visible. As she began to accelerate once again, she felt more than heard Raven’s terrible shriek.

Rainbow Dash’s head swam, and her legs buckled as the distant magical assault caused her to land roughly on her hands and knees. Get up, Dash, you have to hurry! she silently told herself.

At first, her limbs didn’t obey her mental command. When the white flash from one of Fluttershy’s most magical arrows reflected off of the low clouds, Rainbow Dash cleared her head, picked up her quarterstaff, and ran on towards the thickest concentration of green mist.

Fluttershy and Discord stood back to back, slinging chaotic magic and arrows with reckless abandon.

After loosing an arrow with a red sphere embedded into the shaft, Fluttershy’s worriedly said, “That was my last fireball arrow, Discord.” It exploded about a hundred feet away, temporarily dispersing more of the foul mist and destroying a sizable group of zombies and skeletons.

“I’d love to give you more ammunition, but things are tough all over!” Discord snapped his fingers, and the cyclone he had banished earlier returned. The shark trapped in the tornado ruthlessly feasted on the ghoul nearest to the Spirit of Chaos, then winked out of existence. His hands glowed with a golden aura, and he sent a rainbow-colored ball of chaotic energy at Raven, which splashed harmlessly against her magical robe.

Aria used the distraction to strike, using a powerful upswing from Chainbreaker. The mace struck Raven in the ribs, knocking her backwards. The attack marred the Robe of Vecna’s shimmering gray surface with a large black scorch mark. Aria permitted herself a small smile.

“It’s too bad that I haven’t been alive for centuries. I know how much you’d want to claim ‘first blood’ in a fight like this! The only blood that will be spilled between us is yours, of course,” taunted the banshee. One of her decreasing number of bracelets glowed and Raven darted forward with impossible speed.

Aria turned to dodge, and howled in pain as the banshee’s sharp claws wounded her back and left side. She mastered her pain, flipped her pigtails and grimaced at Raven. “Is that all you’ve got?”

The undead creature smiled in reply. “Finally, I face a worthy opponent!” She ripped another bauble free of her skeletal arm, and disappeared from view.

Discord, dismayed by Raven’s sudden invisibility, delayed noticing a ghoul that had broken through the last row of headstones. It was headed straight for Fluttershy. Spooked by the fearsome creature’s approach, she tried to draw an arrow from her quiver, but fumbled it to the ground.

“No!” he shouted. The Spirit of Chaos drew Apple Smith’s home-forged knife, threw it at the ghoul and corrected its flight with a reflexive burst of telekinesis. The heirloom struck the monster between the eyes, and saved Fluttershy from the creature’s attack.

A pale yellow hand over her heart, Fluttershy tried in vain to calm herself. She barely managed a stammering word of thanks to Discord. Her eyes suddenly flicked past the Spirit of Chaos, and focused on movement at the far end of the cemetery.

Shrieking Raven used the moment to her advantage, making a swift attack that ended her invisibility spell. She grabbed Aria by the throat and lifted her high in the air. The bracelet granting the banshee magical strength glowed brightly. Chainbreaker dangled in Aria’s right hand. Choking, the Siren futilely kicked at the monster, and desperately tried to free herself before Raven crushed her windpipe.

“Short of breath, songbird?” taunted Shrieking Raven.

“Fluttershy, now!” implored Discord.

Her hands shook from the earlier fright. Fluttershy nocked the fifth of the six radiant arrows that Discord had made, and aimed carefully.

Aria struggled for breath. “Kill me if you have to! Destroy Raven!”

The arrow flew through the air, and softly sailed over Shrieking Raven’s horrific helmet towards the back of the cemetery.

“I knew you’d miss when it counted the most! You’ve been timid and craven your whole life, Fluttershy. At last, your fear caused you to fail.” The banshee’s black eyes communicated revulsion and disdain.

Fluttershy stood straight, tugged on her long pink braid and confidently said, “What makes you think I missed?”

I made it! Now I need to jump the wall, thought Rainbow Dash. Her lungs were on fire and her pulse raced, but she had reached her goal. Tossing her staff over the four-foot tall barrier, she backed up to get a running start. Owing to her athletic prowess, she easily grabbed the flat top of the stone wall and hauled herself to the other side. As she landed, a fireball exploded about fifty yards away, illuminating the shadows of her three friends along with numerous enemies.

Rainbow Dash let loose an admiring obscenity. Dozens upon dozens of open graves lay around the limestone mausoleum where the magical green mist originated. The device, sitting on the floor of the modest stone structure, appeared unassuming. But, as she approached through the concentrated emerald fog that tickled her knees, Rainbow Dash’s chest tightened, and her stomach turned. Made of gray metal and entirely covered in magical runes, the necromantic engine was shaped roughly like a pyramid about a foot tall. Holes near the top of the pyramid allowed the green mist to billow forth.

In the distance, Discord screamed “No!” Rainbow Dash immediately focused on the task at hand. She gripped her quarterstaff in both hands and brought it down with all her strength upon the point of the pyramid.

A magical rune shaped like a skull flared with unholy energy, breaking the staff into three pieces and knocking Rainbow Dash to the ground. “Dammit! Now what?”

Her desperation growing, she threw pieces of defiled headstones at the necromantic engine, but none of the improvised weapons made a scratch. She even tried to stomp on the metal pyramid, but it deflected her blow, knocking her off balance.

Seated awkwardly on the ground, Rainbow Dash stopped and looked up at the sky. She closed her eyes, bowed her head and sheepishly said, “Hey, I know Scoots puts a lot of stock in this, but I’m not so good at it. I need some help, or else she and a lot of other people I care about are going to die.”

A soft thunk came to her ears. She opened her eyes and saw one of Fluttershy’s glowing white arrows stuck in the ground at the entrance to the mausoleum.

Rainbow Dash grinned crookedly. “Awesome work, Fluttershy!” She looked skyward. “Thanks to you, too.”

Without further fanfare, she plucked the radiant weapon from the ground, entered the mausoleum and plunged the arrow into one of the holes at the top of the evil magical device. A high pitched whine rapidly built intensity, until the arrow, necromantic engine and mausoleum all exploded in a burst of pure, white light. The blast tossed Rainbow Dash into the air. She bounced off of a tree and fell to the ground.

Shrieking Raven looked at Fluttershy in confusion. Her helmet’s horn spat forth purple light tinged with darkness. “It’s time to end this banter.” She inhaled to scream once again, but before she could use her devastating ability, a huge explosion shook the earth.

Startled by the blast, Raven threw Aria forcefully away from her. The Siren’s head bounced on the ground, and she came to rest in the cold water of the babbling brook. As she rolled, Chainbreaker went dark as the magical mace fell from her hand.

“Rainbow Dash did it!” yelled Discord. “Look! The mist is gone, and the dead sleep again!”

Shrieking Raven turned towards the Spirit of Chaos, and issued a furious retort. “So does your pet Siren. I still hold the advantage.” A white flash reflected across her black eyes.

Discord pointed down at Raven’s left hip. “Care to make a wager on that?”

Fluttershy had fired her final radiant arrow. While it didn’t completely penetrate the Robe of Vecna to strike Shrieking Raven, it had pierced the macabre garment. Its brilliance became almost blinding as the arrow issued a high-pitched musical note. Discord dove behind a row of headstones to take cover.

Raven knew what the crescendo portended. In a panic, she ripped the robe from her body, balled it around the magical arrow and tossed it as far into the air as her magically-augmented strength would allow. Robe and missile exploded in mid-air, and ninety-nine pale balls of light escaped into the heavens.

With her magical raiment's destruction, the banshee gave in to her fury, and leapt forward with her claws poised to strike. Her right set of claws swept away Fluttershy’s composite bow, while the left tore her shirt and raked deep furrows in her stomach and side.

Raven howled furiously as Fluttershy screamed in pain, and she pressed her hands against the wounds. The banshee kicked her downed opponent. “Do you know how many centuries it took to restore the Robe’s power? I’ll start anew, with your flesh and your pink hair!”

Discord stood and saw the vicious cuts across Fluttershy's midsection. He saw her blood staining her hands, and her face contorted in agony. His gaze flicked over to where Aria lay in the brook, and he saw Chainbreaker lying on the ground. The Spirit of Chaos’ ever-present smirk faded and he clenched his jaw. His crimson eyes came alight with righteous fury, and glowed in the dark.

He shouted with all the anger his human form could muster, "No! Not her!" A nimbus of chaotic magical energy surrounded Discord. Mismatched wings sprouted from his back. A blue goat’s horn, a deer’s antler, and a pair of Equestrian ears appeared atop his head, while a red scaly tail extended from the end of his spine. The Spirit of Chaos' hands glowed with a bright golden aura, and Shrieking Raven wheeled around, distracted from her prey.

"Never again, Fluttershy! I won't fail you ever again!" His voice quivered with emotion as the moonlight shone down upon him.

Surrounded by a golden telekinetic aura, Chainbreaker leapt into Discord's right hand. The weapon flickered, seeming almost surprised at who wielded it, before emitting steady white radiance once again. With his left hand, Discord tore free the lapel pin from his camouflage top. The pin grew and expanded into an enormous medieval kite shield. Its pale green face exhibited a trio of pink butterflies surrounded by twining vines and multihued songbirds.

Discord, the enraged Spirit of Chaos, charged the banshee called Shrieking Raven.

*****

During the battle against the mass of undead, Aria sings two lines from “The Song of Swords” from Fred Saberhagen’s epic Book of Swords series.

Starswirl the Bearded’s spell of banishment is excerpted from and inspired by Madeleine L’Engle’s A Swiftly Tilting Planet.

*****

Author's Note

Summer is upon us (at least in the Northern Hemisphere), and I know that many of you are embarking on adventures great and small. Whether it’s a summer job, time with family, study abroad, volunteer work or a weekend or two relaxing, I hope that you can set aside your normal burdens for a while to enjoy yourselves.

The wonderful editing team that cleans up my writing is going to be shifting around during these last few chapters, due to a mix of personal and professional obligations. Please join me in thanking SerenaAveline and EstrellaEssentia for their work on this update! I’ll apologize in advance, because while I’ll do my best to stick to chapters every two weeks, my schedule may force me to slip to a three-week update or two this summer.

Check out my blog to take a look at the art in progress from FeatherScratch. I’ve also commissioned an additional piece from Dane of Celestia, the cover artist for this story, but it has only begun. The featured character in this new piece of art is one that didn’t appear in his previous work. I appreciate your continued loyalty to reading Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer, and I eagerly anticipate your comments on this action-packed chapter!

Chapter Twenty-Five

Following the destruction of Shrieking Raven’s protective robe by Fluttershy’s final radiant arrow, the grotesque monster twisted its skeletal visage with primal fury. The creature rushed forward with magically-enhanced speed, and eschewed her devastating shriek, preferring to attack with sharp skeletal claws. The banshee’s first blow knocked Fluttershy’s bow out of her hands, and Raven’s follow-up strike tore through the girl’s shirt to rake deep furrows in her stomach and side. Fluttershy’s shrill scream of pain echoed across the cemetery as she crumpled to the ground, with small streams of blood flowing over her pale yellow hands as she desperately tried to staunch the three wounds on her abdomen. Shrieking Raven, with a predatory skull’s grin on her face, gloated as she stood over her victim.

"No! Not her!" Discord’s incensed voice sounded like the most beautiful music that Fluttershy had ever heard in her life. As she lay on the ground, her pain transformed to wonder as a multicolored, swirling magical aura enveloped her protector. Fluttershy had read Twilight’s journal entry closely, but her writing emphasized Discord’s behavior, instead of his physical description. Despite her wounds, she couldn’t conceal her amazement at a partial glimpse of her friend’s true form. A pair of wings, one feathery and one leathery, sprang into being upon his back. Fuzzy pony ears, much longer than her own, appeared on his head along with a blue goat’s horn and a jagged deer’s antler. Below his mismatched wings, a scaly red tail extended behind him, ending in a prehensile tuft of white fur. The Spirit of Chaos’ hands glowed with a golden aura, and light from his crimson eyes pierced the darkness as his emotions released his magic. Raven swiftly turned away from Fluttershy to confront Discord.

He clenched his fists, and passionately shouted, "Never again, Fluttershy! I won't fail you ever again!"

Discord’s magic summoned Chainbreaker into his right hand, where it flickered once and came to life once more, brightening the cemetery with its pale white radiance. The Spirit of Chaos ripped his ever-present lapel pin free of his clothing, and gripped it in his left hand. The pin transformed itself into a huge steel shield, pointedly decorated with three pink butterflies, twining vines and rainbow-colored songbirds. Discord held Chainbreaker high and charged Shrieking Raven.

Before the banshee could assume a defensive stance, the Spirit of Chaos slammed his tail on the ground, and he used it as leverage to jump high into the air. Raven tried to leap out of the way, but the ferocity of his attack had caught her off guard. Chainbreaker struck her on her left side as he bounced by, breaking several ribs and scorching her parchment-like flesh underneath the simple tunic she wore. The powerful blow knocked the sheath holding Raven’s bronze dagger to the ground. The shards of Adagio’s heart-pendant glittered in Chainbreaker’s luminance.

“Feel the burn, Cassiopeia?” Discord taunted the wounded banshee. “I’ve learned how important it is to correct old mistakes. You’ve bided your time well, but you haven’t learned a damned thing!” Breathing heavily, he positioned himself between Raven and the magical dagger, sparing glances at both Aria and Fluttershy.

Raven's flat black eyes flicked down at the dagger for a moment, then her gaze returned to Discord and the incredible amount of arcane energy emanating from him. She spoke slowly and deliberately, as though she had all the time in the world. “You had all of Equestria, but you were such an idiot that you were more concerned with entertaining yourself than ruling. Just like when the alicorn sisters petrified you, now you stand alone. Your spirit has weakened to the point where you actually care about what happens to these mortals. Pathetic! I’m doing you a favor by putting you out of your misery. When I seize your power for myself, at least I’ll do something useful with it!” She concentrated, and a destructive beam of violet magic lanced forth from the unicorn’s skull she wore.

He raised the pale-green kite shield and gritted his teeth. The arcane attack dissipated harmlessly against the barrier, and Discord used the shield to block a pair of follow-up strikes from Raven’s claws.

“Even when you were mortal, I knew you couldn’t understand emotion. Every being was just a piece on a grand gameboard to you. So, once again you’ll fail to comprehend what I’m trying to tell you.” Discord used his telekinetic powers to carefully toss Raven’s dagger towards his discarded backpack. “This still sounds ridiculously cheesy when I say it, even though I know it to be true, but there is potent magic in friendship. Fluttershy’s Equestrian double first taught me that, and the girl you’ve wounded has driven that lesson home. She’s selfless with her brief life, and is certainly a better teacher than you. Of course, being blasted by the Power of Harmony multiple times has caused me to reflect on the errors of my long existence.”

He snapped his fingers and distracted Raven by hurling a dozen small stone statues of himself at the banshee. His breathing came in increasingly ragged gasps, and perspiration beaded on his forehead.

As Discord and Raven faced off, Aria Blaze felt the cold water pooling around her and into her agonizing wounds as she slowly regained consciousness. Her eyes snapped open. The moon, waning towards a crescent, filled her vision. I don’t want to think about how much worse this would be if I hadn’t landed in the brook. At least I have enough magic left in me for the water to accelerate my healing. Most of the bleeding seems to have stopped. She gasped upon viewing Discord’s changed form, and she winced anew when she saw the blood staining Fluttershy’s clothes.

Twenty yards away, on the other side of the angel statue, Fluttershy dragged herself across the ground to where Discord’s pack lay. She quietly opened the main compartment, retrieved some medical supplies, and grimaced while she clumsily wrapped a battle dressing around her wounded stomach. Fluttershy heard Discord’s compliment, which helped her fight through the pain. I have to help my friends! I’ve proven to myself that I’m not weak and helpless tonight, but that does no good if Raven wins, she thought. Fluttershy somehow managed to tie the straps on the field bandage, and she pillowed her chin on top of the backpack to watch Discord fight Raven, all the while fanning the flames of her own quiet determination.

Rainbow Dash rolled over and tried to settle in again. Annoyance triggered in her sleepy mind, I hate it when I have to take a nap without a pillow, and why are these sheets so scratchy? She distantly heard the sound of some guy screaming down the street and mentally groaned. Dude, could you pick a better time to freak out, I’ve got things to do! Consciousness began to return to her addled mind. Her ears rang and she smelled pine sap mixed with the distinctive odor of ozone. Things to do! The evil dead thing blew up and tossed me wherever the hell I am. Get up! You’ve got to help Flutters, Aria and Discord!

Forcing her eyes open, Rainbow Dash found herself at the foot of a tall pine tree, where a thick bed of needles had softened her fall. She could feel a knot rising on the right side of her forehead, and her right shoulder hurt like crazy. She saw Chainbreaker’s glow in the distance, and painfully struggled to her feet.

Shrieking Raven continued to goad Discord. “You’d better hurry, Discord! I sense your resolve wavering. You can’t deny your true nature! Soon, you’ll forget all about the bleeding girl and the stricken Siren to make some joke elsewhere. Just think of all the pain you’ll spare them. The moment you forget about protecting them, they will become mine forever!” Periodic blasts of dark magic from the unicorn skull atop her head forced Discord to keep his shield at the ready.

Discord's eyes glowed red with wrath as he soaked in the banshee's words. Chainbreaker thundered as he shouted, “They will never become yours!” He dropped to his knees, and he slammed the magical mace onto the earth, creating a tremor that knocked Raven to the ground.

“They are already mine! They will die soon enough,” the banshee declared.

Surrounded by a glimmering golden aura, the Spirit of Chaos threw his head back and laughed heartily, as the banshee struggled to regain her footing. “You know that Vecna can’t claim all death, or you’d never go through all this effort! Cassiopeia, you’ve made the toilet bowl of the multiverse your home, and revel in the fact that you’re a half-step from oblivion. To be immortal, you threw away the mystery of the planes, the joy of belief, the might of emotion and the thrill mortals feel from riding the Wheel of Time! You’ve learned nothing. I show you Equestria’s greatest lesson to me. Behold, the mingled power of chaos and life!”

Green, leafy vines burst from the ground, and wrapped themselves around Raven’s arms and legs, trapping her in place. Clouds of chewing gum swarmed the banshee’s helmet, blocking her spellcasting, and a lightning bolt made of sugar struck the earth next to the angelic statue, exploding into square, brightly-colored candies. Discord, clenching his teeth, ignored the sweat pouring down his face, as he stepped forward menacingly. He began to spin Chainbreaker in a slow, deadly circle.

“I’m not so easily bound!” Raven smiled, and the bracelet granting her magical strength glowed with blinding intensity. She stood, snapping the vines holding her left leg in place. As they parted from the ground, the vegetation immediately withered. “So much for your rampaging magic, fool!”

Smirking, Discord snapped his fingers, and slender black plunder vines grew from the piles of candy that had gathered around the banshee. They twined up to Raven’s wrists and their tiny spikes plucked free each and every one of the bracelets she wore. He furrowed his sweaty brow, and wiggled his fingers in an elaborate set of gestures. Suddenly, the vines expanded their girth twenty-fold, destroying all of Raven’s magical baubles in an explosion of precious metals and gemstones. The banshee bared her teeth and snarled at Discord, as she struggled to free her right leg and left arm from the lush vegetation.

His chest heaving, the Spirit of Chaos panted a soliloquy. “Flowers bloom in a wasteland, and nopony knows why. Death and decay help a redwood seed sprout, and then it grows for thousands of years.” He glanced at Fluttershy, who simultaneously winced and smiled. Discord wheezed, and advanced towards the entangled banshee. “Kindness, in a miracle beyond belief, transforms the heart of a villain.”

Discord gripped Chainbreaker in his right hand, and put all of his strength into a sideways swing aimed at Raven’s head that left him open to attack. Her claws dragged across Discord's chest, but failed to slow the mace's momentum and Chainbreaker's radiance forcefully connected with the helmet's dim purple glow. Despite her restraints, the banshee managed to roll with the impact, which prevented her head from being separated from her shoulders. The magical weapon shattered the grisly unicorn skull in a multicolored explosion of arcane energy that lit up the sky. The blast knocked Chainbreaker from Discord's grip as he was thrown backwards towards Fluttershy, the light of the weapon winking out as it sailed in the opposite direction.

A smoky mist rose from the helmet’s fragments, and then coalesced into the form of a unicorn with a purple blaze beneath its ghostly horn. Freed at last, the unicorn reared up, tossed its ethereal mane in gratitude and galloped across the field of stars towards the moon. A single unearthly whinny echoed across the sky as the equine spirit vanished into the heavens.

The awe-inspiring moment was spoiled by the banshee's sudden screaming. “Nooooo! My hair! My face! You’ve ruined me!” Discord’s blow had burned all of Raven’s black hair from the right side of her head, and created a ghastly spiderweb of scorch marks across her face.

With the last of his strength, Discord chuckled weakly, reached into his camouflage jacket and tossed Raven a small mirror. “Now, the carpet really does match the drapes.” He spat on the ground, clutched at his chest, and moaned. The crimson light in Discord’s eyes winked out, his chaotic appendages disappeared, and the Spirit of Chaos slumped to the ground, his limbs quivering from exhaustion and his face creased with frailty. Gone was the powerful being that fought the banshee; only a fragile old man remained in his place.

The banshee tugged at the vines that stubbornly encircled her arm, then meticulously sliced them with her opposite claws. “For centuries, I planned the way that I would torment you if you ever fell into my hooves again.” Raven lapsed into an Equestrian speech pattern, and her black eyes glittered gleefully. “Just like that insufferable foal’s author wrote, ‘I see that your heart grew three sizes this day.’ It’s too bad for you that such a wonder happened just in time for me to carve it from your chest! But, that agony is just too direct for the soon to be former Spirit of Chaos, isn’t it?”

“You leave him alone!” Fluttershy had propped herself up on Discord’s backpack, and her teal eyes looked beyond Raven for a moment, and then focused upon the banshee with incredible intensity. She gasped painfully with each inhalation, but her voice remained strong and determined. “See, he’s old and useless. But, you can make use of me if you let Aria and Discord go!”

The Spirit of Chaos fumbled with his left hand and plucked the now-still lapel pin from the mud and placed it in his pocket. “No, Fluttershy!” he groaned. Then, Discord noticed movement behind the banshee, and he changed his tone. “Don’t do this! You wouldn’t let me sacrifice myself, now I’m rubber and you’re glue. Anything you say bounces off me and sticks to you.” His sing-song voice masked the sound of a rustling bush and splashing water.

Her eyes wide and unfocused as she met Fluttershy’s gaze, Raven ceased trying to free herself. “Make use of you… Yes, I can do that…” As she stared at Fluttershy, her arms dropped to her side, and she cocked her head. “Tell me, Fluttershy, do you play chess?”

“Not yet, but you can teach me. Now let them go!” Her soft voice had a hard edge to it, like an order given to a ferocious animal.

Raven, held captive by the teal irises, nodded once. “Of course I will let Discord go…” The banshee heard herself, closed her eyes and shook her head to clear it. Realization struck her, and the monster’s ruined face twisted with grotesque rage. “What in Vecna’s name did you almost do? I must take this power from you!” she shouted. Raven tore her claw free and sliced at the last stubborn vine holding her in place. She inhaled to let loose her horrific shriek.

A brilliant white light filled the cemetery, taking Raven’s unholy breath away.

Rainbow Dash’s right arm hung limply by her side as she hurried through the cemetery. She zigzagged towards the combat area until she found the brook, and then followed it upstream. Chainbreaker’s light acted as a flickering beacon that grew closer with each painful step. Her head pounded, and her lavender eyes were narrowed with concentration.

What the hell is that? she silently asked herself as she caught a glimpse of Discord’s wings and tail between trees. Rainbow Dash gasped. If he’s fighting with Chainbreaker, that means… Aria! Fluttershy! I have to get to them.

She accelerated her limping stride to an attempted jog. Close enough to hear the combatants screaming at one another, Rainbow Dash did her best to ignore the agonizing throbbing behind her eyes. A hundred yards shortened to sixty, and then to forty. The surrounding trees thinned just in time for her to see Discord’s attack shatter Raven’s helmet. Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to scream with triumph, when the magical mace’s light went out. Plunged into darkness for a moment, she silently dropped to her knees in the brook.

The moonlight reflected off of the landscaped white gravel guiding the gurgling flow of water. Rainbow Dash’s eyes rapidly adjusted to the gloom, and she saw two violet pinpricks of light staring back at her from the brook.

“Aria!” she called, using a loud stage whisper.

The pinpricks of light shook side to side. Aria shushed her and looked pointedly to the ground between them.

Twenty yards away, next to the statue, Chainbreaker lay on the grass. Discord delivered his final insult to the banshee. “Now, the carpet really does match the drapes.” His pocket mirror dimly reflected the moonlight as he tossed it at the banshee’s feet.

Any other time, Rainbow Dash would have erupted in laughter, but as her eyes continued their adjustment to the moonlight, she recognized that both Discord and Fluttershy were badly hurt. Her stomach swam with worry.

Creeping closer to Chainbreaker, Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but listen as Raven mercilessly taunted Discord. Menace dripped from the banshee’s voice. “For centuries, I planned the way that I would torment you if you ever fell into my hooves again.”

She crouched behind a bush ten yards away from the weapon, and miraculously the banshee remained so intent on her revenge that she hadn’t noticed her. Upon seeing Raven’s scorched face, Rainbow Dash barely prevented herself from throwing up onto the ground.

“I dislocated my shoulder, Aria!” She rustled the bush and balanced her weight on the balls of her feet. Addressing the Siren’s drenched silhouette, Rainbow Dash shook her head sadly. “I can’t use Chainbreaker.”

The violet eyes narrowed, and Rainbow Dash heard a splash and saw water fly into the air as Aria pantomimed a kick. “You’re much closer. Get it to me. Quietly,” whispered the Siren.

Rainbow Dash gulped. Chainbreaker lay in an area with no cover. She thought, Raven’s going to see me, and she’ll finish me off just as I kick it to Aria. But, I’ll save them all! It’ll be awesome! She tightened the muscles in her legs and prepared to spring into the open, when a determined voice caught her attention.

“You leave him alone!” The force behind Fluttershy’s words demanded that both Aria and Rainbow Dash look at her. Fluttershy stared down the banshee, who seemed strangely compelled by her teal eyes. Discord’s face turned in their direction and he began to babble loud nonsense about rubber and glue.

With a burst of speed, Rainbow Dash hopped into the open, hooked her right foot underneath the branch from the Golden Oak Library, and using all of the strength in her aching legs, she lifted it into the air. Chainbreaker arced towards Aria, who balanced herself on one knee and caught the weapon in both hands. Rainbow Dash pumped her fist, but the sudden movement proved too much for her shaky legs, and she fell unceremoniously on her rear end.

They heard Shrieking Raven break Fluttershy’s fragile hold on her. The banshee, still tenuously confined by vines twisted around her leg, loosed her fury. “What in Vecna’s name did you almost do? I must take this power from you!” Rainbow Dash perceived Raven’s impending shriek, and she braced herself.

Before the banshee could use her lethal magic, Chainbreaker’s radiance transformed night into day. Aria Blaze, her soaking wet pigtails streaming behind her, sprinted past the statue of the angel. She spun Chainbreaker rapidly, and with a massive two-handed blow, she brought the weapon’s artfully-forged head down on the top of Shrieking Raven’s skull.

“Checkmate, bitch!” Aria bellowed triumphantly.

The banshee, so close to victory, didn’t even realize she had been destroyed until the light flashed across her eyes. Shrieking Raven howled impotently as the power of the magical mace unmade her terrifying body. Her black heart exploded in a final arcane counterattack, but Chainbreaker, held firmly in Aria’s hands, sucked in the dark shockwave. Like a prism splitting a beam of light, the Aquastrian coral inlay transformed Raven’s unholy energy into a beneficial wave that crested over Fluttershy, Discord, Aria and Rainbow Dash. Their wounds stopped bleeding, and flesh knitted itself together to a small degree.

Covered in their own blood, they wept and embraced one another at the foot of the angelic statue. Color returned to both Discord and Fluttershy’s faces and the lump on Rainbow Dash’s head halved its size, whereas Aria’s wounds were merely superficial.

“You were magnificent,” Fluttershy gazed into Discord’s eyes. She blushed and swept her pale yellow arm over the entire group. “All of you were magnificent!”

Discord gently patted Fluttershy’s shoulder, and after a brief hesitation, he gave it a lingering squeeze. A mischevious look returned to his red eyes, and the butterfly lapel pin slowly climbed out of his pocket to rest on his collar. “Don’t sell yourself short, my dear. Not only did you destroy Raven’s cloak, you stared down one of the most horrifying creatures in existence!” He shook his head and mumbled to himself. “The pony stares down a cockatrice and lives. But that’s not enough! The human version tops that by nearly bending an elder banshee to her will. Incredible!”

“I just had the privilege of delivering the coup de grace. Each of us wore her down, kept her angry, and distracted Raven long enough to send her on a one way trip to nothingness.” Aria looked at each of them in turn, and her genuine smile touched her violet eyes. “We all tried to give our lives for one another tonight. But, I’m glad none of us succeeded.”

Discord leaned over towards Rainbow Dash and pulled a giant white lily from behind her ear. He tossed it on the circle of charred grass where the banshee had met her demise. “We’re not done yet, Handlebars! Anyway, before we get going, thank you all very much. For the first time in at least fifteen hundred years, I honestly thought my eternal reward was at hand. I’ll have to move on sometime, but I’m just glad you all prevented that journey from starting with my former colleague.”

“I’m with you, Discord! I’ve had enough of almost dying tonight. I’m just glad my legs still worked the way that they were supposed to.” Rainbow Dash grinned crookedly. Her right arm still hung limply at her side. “Too bad that penalty kick won’t go into the record books!”

“I think it’ll go into a book that counts for a lot more, Dash.” Aria looked up at the darkening sky. “We have to hurry! Sunset needs all of us, right now. I can feel He Who Swims in Darkness approaching.” She frowned at Rainbow Dash, and nervously pointed at the base of the nearby statue. “Fluttershy, help her pop that shoulder back in while I get Adagio’s shards.”

“Not like that, you won’t!” Discord warned Aria, and halted her with his hand. He emptied the first aid box into the main compartment of his backpack. “That weapon is devastatingly, soul-suckingly, horribly evil! Don’t touch it! Until we can figure out how to get the shards free, I’ll put it in here.” He cautiously used a pair of bandage scissors as tongs to lift the dagger, and he placed it into the empty metal container.

Purple lightning flashed from the black clouds that had gathered over the beach. Fluttershy, ignoring her own wounds, tenderly rolled Rainbow Dash’s right arm in small circles. Suddenly, the athlete’s strong musculature involuntarily took charge, and her shoulder popped back into place. Rainbow Dash’s yelp of pain punctuated a loud crack of thunder overhead.

Fluttershy softly apologized to her patient. “I know that hurt, but don’t you feel better now?”

“Damn! I don’t even want to think about how you learned to do that,” said Rainbow Dash, shaking her head. She gritted her teeth while gingerly moving her right arm in a circle. “I’m not great, but good enough to run. Is everyone ready?”

Aria wearily rested Chainbreaker against her shoulder. “We have to be. We’re out of time.”

As quickly as their partially-healed injuries would allow, the quartet jogged out of the cemetery towards the billowing black clouds.

Sunset Shimmer’s boots left the path and sank into the beach’s intermingled sand and gravel. The light show overhead slowly built in intensity, with each lightning bolt illuminating the unnatural black clouds that shrouded the sky. The moon had started its descent towards the western horizon, escorted by a blaze of twinkling stars. Two hundred yards away, the entrance to Bridal Cave beckoned.

“At last, we’ve made it! We’re all mostly in one piece, too.” Sunset turned and smiled at the rest of her group.

Applejack removed her hat, wiped sweat off of her forehead with the back of her arm and looked skyward. “Not a moment too soon! Those clouds are straight out of a nightmare.”

“Yes, darling, and our baby sisters are in the center of that storm.” Rarity flinched as thunder rolled across the beach. “Let’s keep moving!”

Skipping merrily across the beach, Pinkie tore off her black bandana and let it flutter in the breeze. “You call this a storm? This is just weird, and I know when things aren’t right!”

Sunset wrapped her arms around herself as the wind increased its gusty intensity. “You’re right, Pinkie. Raven and Adagio have planned this out far too well for them to leave the cave undefended.” She nervously rummaged through the pockets of her bandolier. “Strolling right in there without doing some recon is a recipe for disaster. There must be something I can use for divination in here.”

“Look at that!” Rarity pointed an alabaster finger back towards the cemetery. An enormous flare of green and white energy lighted the night sky, followed by a bass rumble. “Oh no! I hope the others are alright.” She jogged back towards the path leading to the battlefield.

Pinkie narrowed her eyes and leaned on her handaxe. “Either they’re fine, or they aren’t. When Sunset made her choice to split us up for a bit, it was like starting up the mixer. You can’t turn batter back into flour, eggs, sugar and milk!” She lifted her weapon and followed Rarity towards the path, balancing the handaxe on her shoulder.

Sunset produced a jagged blue crystal from her bandolier. The Element of Redemption flared to life, with the nearby whitecaps reflecting its green-blue glow as she muttered to herself. “I’ll see what I can learn about what we can expect in there. It’s too bad that Adagio stole my compact.” She concentrated intently on the crystal, and stared into its depths.

“Rarity, we have to do what we came here to do, which is saving our sisters!” While Sunset worked on her spell, Applejack stepped in front of Rarity, blocking her path. The farmgirl dispensed her practical wisdom. “Just like Pinkie said, it’s a mite late for second thoughts.”

Sunset cast her spell, and the crystal transformed into an orange wisp that floated in front of her eyes. She shooed it towards the cave. “Go, and show me what’s happening in there.” The shimmering ball of energy floated towards the cave entrance.

Skipping across the beach, Pinkie grabbed Rarity’s arm. “Come on, silly! Let’s follow Sunset’s magical pet.” The optimistic enthusiasm ended the fashionista’s indecision, and with an overdramatic flip of her purple hair, Rarity began walking back towards the cave, and Pinkie dashed ahead of her. Applejack adjusted her hat while striding briskly across the sand.

Rarity, her footing suddenly uneven, stopped and peered at the sole of her left boot. “Ugh! How did a piece of gravel get between the treads?” She struggled to free the wayward stone from her footwear.

“That is a wizard’s eye. It’ll show me what’s happening inside the cave, so we can plan our entrance.” Sunset proudly explained to Applejack and Pinkie as they approached. “The only problem is that it isn’t very sneaky.”

Shrugging her shoulders as they walked, the farmgirl glanced at Pinkie, and then looked back to where Rarity hopped up and down on one foot. Applejack raised an eyebrow, returning her attention to Sunset. “That’s fine by me. There’s no way we’re going to surprise Adagio at this point. I think of her like a snake or a badger. It’s almost better that she’s not spooked, so she doesn’t hurt my sister by mistake.”

“I’ll take your word for it. Powerful ancient evil, a Siren princess and three freshman girls make for a volatile mix. I don’t think anyone knows for sure how they’re going to react in there.” Sunset furrowed her brow while sending the wizard’s eye into the cave entrance.

When the orange wisp passed through the threshold, a sickly violet wave of dark magical energy swept it away, and blanketed Sunset, Applejack, and Pinkie. The nimbus wavered as it reached Rarity, who stayed focused upon banging her boot against a tree. While physically unharmed, the sensation they felt resembled claws rifling through all the memories contained within their minds. As suddenly as they detected the mental invasion it stopped, and the dark energy ceased its intrusion, leaving behind a foggy mental unsteadiness.

Sunset took her hands away from the sides of her head, and opened her eyes. She gazed at the apparently placid surface of the lake and saw Twilight Sparkle emerging from the water.

“Twilight,” Sunset gasped. She covered her racing heart with her right hand.

The Princess of Friendship strode boldly on to the beach like a figure out of legend, with a golden tiara perched atop her head. Her long, multi-colored hair rippled in the wind, trailing tiny six-pointed stars, and Twilight’s purple eyes portrayed ferocity and determination. She seemed slightly taller than she had been just a few days ago. Her shoulders and arms were alluringly bare, and a violet cape trailed behind her. Adding to her regally warlike aura, the princess had cinched herself into a custom-fitted silver breastplate emblazoned with her cutie mark in eerily glowing gemstones. Twilight wore a sword belt with a scabbard chased in silver atop a skirt of chainmail that intermingled with a flowing violet garment. In her right hand, she held an artfully forged longsword that trailed motes of lavender light each time it moved.

Applejack, her green eyes unfocused and a joyful smile on her face, rushed up to Twilight. “Thank God you’re here! What took you so long?”

“Ooooh, a sword! Nice work, Twilight. I bet that thing slices and dices like nobody’s business!” Pinkie shouted breathlessly, hopping in circles around the new arrival. She didn’t seem to care that her boots were soaked from the waves rolling on to the beach.

Twilight ignored their comments and gazed directly at Sunset. Her loud, commanding voice quivered with arcane power. “Sunset, I have granted your heart’s desire. I’m here to give you victory during your darkest hour, but you must do as I say.”

“Of course, Twilight.” Sunset bowed her head respectfully, and her voice grew distant. “You’re so much stronger with magic than I am. There’s no way I could do anything better than you.”

The princess’ mouth curved in an enigmatic smile. “Good, my faithful student. Make sure that the others follow you.”

Rarity, still standing near the path that led back to the battlefield and cemetery, remembered the searing pain in her mind when Sunset’s orange ball of light had breached the cave. She saw her three friends rush towards the blindingly beautiful figure emerging from the water, and saw Twilight speak into each of her three friends’ ears. Rarity donned her left boot, while fighting through the haze in her mind. Something’s wrong. I want her to be here, too. I’m afraid to face Adagio without her, but she’s not acting like the Twilight I know. No! I want Sunset to lead us the rest of the way, not Twilight!

“Rarity, do you see who’s here?” called Sunset Shimmer. “Twilight’s going to help us against Adagio and He Who Swims in Darkness!”

Cupping her hands to her mouth, Rarity replied. “Where are you going? Come back over here! We need to get into the cave.”

Pinkie dropped her handaxe onto the beach and shouted back. “Twilight says there’s a short cut underneath the water to get to the cave!”

“Yeah, once we go under, she’s going to cast a spell to let us breathe. But, she said to leave our weapons here, since we’ll sink into the mud unless we leave them behind.” Applejack tossed her sickle, hat and lariat on top of Pinkie’s weapon.

Rarity sprinted as fast as she could across the uneven beach, nearly turning an ankle on her way. As she got closer, she saw that there were many things that didn’t add up about Twilight’s appearance. She’s too beautiful, her figure has filled out more than is possible in a week, and there’s not even a trace of “adorkableness.” This is wrong! Rarity’s mind raced.

“Together, we will slay Adagio and her Master! The underwater route will take her completely by surprise.” Twilight twisted her lips cruelly and her voice took on a sinister undertone as she issued orders. “Sunset Shimmer, remove the garment containing my feathers and drop it in the lake. But before you do, give that necklace to me. You certainly wouldn’t want to disappoint me, my faithful student.” Twilight extended her left hand expectantly. Her right hand maneuvered the glittering longsword to a ready position.

Slowly and sadly, Sunset’s hand reached underneath her red-and-gold hair, searching for the Element of Redemption’s clasp. Her pupils were dilated, and her eyes remained unfocused. “But I worked so hard to create it, Twilight! Why would you give me the materials to make it, and then ask for it back?”

Twilight clenched her jaw and tightened her grip on her sword. She suddenly smiled, wiggling the fingers on her waiting hand. “Just think of what I could do with a magic item like that, Sunset. Adagio’s Master wouldn’t stand a chance!” She moved sinuously and seductively in time with the waves.

Applejack and Pinkie swayed side to side as the waves struck them. Their eyes were fixed downward, mesmerized by the moonlight sparkling on the lake’s dark surface.

Rarity reached them as they were waist-deep in the chilly waters of Lake Piebald. Her stomach knotted in fear as she saw the waves wash diamond dust out of the bandolier, and dampness ruined several other spell components stored around Sunset’s waist. “Sunset, wait!” A question came to her mind that could prove whether or not Twilight Sparkle actually stood before them. “Twilight darling, what material is that absolutely divine scabbard and swordbelt made from? It looks quite sturdy.”

The Princess of Friendship narrowed her eyes at Rarity in annoyance. She sheathed the sword and spread her arms with exasperation. “It’s leather, Rarity! What else would it be? We don’t have time to talk fashion! Don’t you care about what happens to your sister?”

“Yeah, don’t you care?” Sunset echoed vacantly. Her eyes had glazed over with confusion, as she dropped her head to stare into Lake Piebald’s black waters. Like Pinkie and Applejack, Sunset began to surrender to the motion of the waves, a motion that echoed the movements of the figure wearing Twilight’s image.

Rarity reached her arm around Sunset’s waist and used her left hand to pluck an item from the bandolier’s sash. She thought, I won’t let this creature, whatever it is, hurt them and doom Sweetie Belle!

“Yes, just put your heads beneath the waves, girls. I’ll cast my spell in a moment,” purred Twilight’s imposter. Her hands crept up Pinkie and Applejack’s backs, and she gripped their hair so hard her lavender-tinted knuckles turned white. “Just surrender your will to me. It’s the only way that it will work for certain.”

Sunset looked back at Rarity with dull, half-lidded eyes. Lazily, she beckoned to follow her. “Come on, Rarity. We have to stop Adagio and save your sister,”

Rarity closed her deep blue eyes and thought of her first happy memories of being a big sister, and clarity pierced through the fog of confusion that emanated from the false Twilight. Her eyes popped open, and blazed with determination. The real Twilight once let slip that the Rarity in her world is a unicorn, just like Sunset. This vicious creature, whatever it is, is certainly not the Princess of Friendship from Equestria. I don’t think she would ever wear animal hide! If she did, then the Twilight I remember would give us a long, excited explanation about its magical origins. This had better work, or we’re all dead, she thought.

Holding a foot-long feather from Princess Celestia high in the air, Rarity vividly remembered the first time that she and Sweetie Belle had sang together. Her father had been “working late” with the orange-haired administrative assistant who favored low-cut blouses, while her mother sat in the dining room by herself, crying and drinking the betrayal away. Rarity tiptoed upstairs, and sneaked into Sweetie Belle’s room. Even though she was only six years old, Rarity suddenly knew that she must be responsible for her sister. Despite the despair evident downstairs, Rarity recalled the joy of the first time that Sweetie Belle remembered all of the words and gestures from one of their favorite children’s songs. She raised her voice in a simple melody:

The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the water spout

Standing in Lake Piebald, Rarity’s snowy-white pony ears appeared, and her purple coiffure lengthened and fell into the water as she sang with all her heart, just as she had more than a decade ago. The feather in her left hand began to glow with a pale blue radiance.

Down came the rain
And washed the spider out!

With a violent gesture of her right hand, which still held her brass club, the pale blue aura surrounded Pinkie, Sunset and Applejack. Rarity’s miraculous telekinesis tossed them fifteen yards back towards the shore, where they fell awkwardly into shallow water.

The creature masquerading as Twilight drew its sword, which had turned as black as the clouds collecting over the lake. It advanced on Rarity with murder in its purple eyes. Rarity, emboldened, continued to sing:

Out came the sun and dried up all the rain

Celestia’s feather exploded in a simple, dazzling burst of light that stripped away the disguise shrouding the deceitful creature. The light exposed it as a physically frail humanoid with seaweed for hair, and arms that ended in webbed hands. It shrieked in pain as the radiance scorched its large, black eyes.

Rarity let the feather drop into the lake, and gripped her cudgel with both hands. Before the monster could recover, she put all of her strength into a blow that cracked its skull and sent it back beneath the waves. She finished her song with an improvised line:

And the itsy bitsy spider won’t get up again!

Rarity’s shoulders convulsed as the adrenaline surge receded, and her terror overcame the crisis of the moment. Still thigh-deep in the lake, she burst into tears and shouted into the night. “I won’t let anything take you from me, Sweetie Belle, but I couldn’t let my friends be drowned, either! Oh, no! This all took too much time.” A crack of thunder overhead complimented her loud wail. Her pony ears disappeared, and her violet hair returned to its normal length.

From the beach, a comforting voice said, “You saved us all, Rarity. Just think what would have happened if you hadn’t stopped to get that stone out of your boot, or if we would have just waltzed into the cave! That trap and the monster it summoned would have been the end for us.” Sunset’s magic caused the Element of Harmony to glow with green-blue radiance. “Now get over here and dry off for a second!”

Sunset’s telekinetic power lifted the fashionista from the water and placed her gently on the beach. The four young women piled upon each other in a soggy group hug, while Sunset cast a spell that created warmth in a futile attempt to dry their clothes.

“Deep down, I wanted Twilight to be here to lead us into the cave, Rarity! I think that’s what that awful critter saw in our minds,” declared Applejack. Pinkie nodded her agreement.

Sunset helped to wring out a long lock of purple hair. “I’m just scared to do this on my own. I know Twilight could do this so much better than I could. I suspect that the cave entrance had a trap that summoned that terrible thing. How did you keep from falling under its spell, Rarity?”

“Honesty’s more of her thing,” Rarity gestured to Applejack, who smiled sheepishly, “but here’s the truth, and it’s damned selfish: I want you to lead us, Sunset. Not Twilight. Not Discord. Not Aria. This story begs for the exiled, gorgeous, redeemed heroine from another world to save us from unspeakable evil. Most of all, and apologies to Twilight when we next see the real her, I want to thank a dear friend I’ve known for years for saving my sister instead of some new arrival.” She wiped a tear away from her eye.

Sunset rushed forward and embraced Rarity. Their cheeks pressed against each other for an instant. “That’s twice in one week you’ve given me compliments I can never repay, even though we’ve only been friends for a few short months of those years you’re talking about.” She broke the hug and held Rarity by both shoulders, grinning broadly. “Accept my congratulations to be the first human I know of that has cast an Equestrian magic spell, by the way. When you apologize to Twilight in person, you’ll have to be sure to tell her that story over a cup of tea.”

“Darling, while I’m in a brutally honest mood, please consider this bit of advice: You should never feel inferior to Twilight!” Rarity’s blue eyes echoed the seriousness of her voice. “We are all friends. Just like a splendid outfit, we all have different strengths and weaknesses that complement one another. When the task demands physical courage and boldness, I’d pick you to lead us over our bookish royal friend every day of the week!”

Sunset’s lip quivered and a tear of gratitude ran down her cheek. She moved to hug Rarity again, but a pink cloud of curls intentionally interrupted her.

Interposing herself between Sunset and Rarity, Pinkie gently knocked on both of their foreheads. “Okay, it’s time for more heroism and less sappiness, you two! Remember that whole ‘time crunch’ thing? We’ve got to get going!” She issued her order cheerfully, and handed Applejack her sickle, hat and lariat.

Applejack got her gear in order, and calmly asked Sunset, “So what’s left from your magic supplies?"

“Not much.” She frowned as she rummaged through the pockets of the bandolier. “There’s not enough time for a complete inventory, but it looks like I have one of Celestia’s feathers, one from Cadence, and two from Twilight. Let’s see, there are a few gemstones left in the sash, and maybe there are enough materials to circumscribe a magic circle or two. Oh, and the silver dagger made it through, thanks to Rarity.”

Rarity smiled encouragingly as the quartet closed on the cave entrance. “It’ll have to be enough, darling. But, we made it, and I know in my heart that the others must join us soon. Even if they’re delayed, four to one puts the odds squarely in our favor!”

“Nah, I think we’re squarely in ‘four to two’ territory, Rarity. Those clouds give me the willies!” Pinkie boldly skipped ahead, and stepped into the dark mouth of the cave.

Sunset fidgeted with the potent magical amulet around her neck. She turned to Applejack and asked, “Do you think Adagio can be redeemed?”

“Let’s see. My brother’s in the hospital, my sister’s kidnapped and my granny doesn’t know about any of it.” The farmgirl shook her blonde ponytail in exasperation. “I’m just about past worrying about how we go about this. The bottom line is that I’m willing to do anything to save my sister, and that’s the honest truth. I don’t want to hurt anybody, but I reckon we’re way past that point now.”

Sunset cast a basic cantrip, sending a ball of light into the cave’s first cavern. She pursed her lips, cocked her head and then nodded. “I just hope it’s that simple, but all my senses tell me that it won’t be. Let’s end this nightmare!”

Sunset Shimmer, Applejack and Rarity stepped into Bridal Cave. Their eyes adjusted to the dim illumination provided by the single ball of light conjured by Sunset. Pinkie stood in the middle of the chamber, slowly turning in a circle with her mouth hanging open in awe. The bluish celestite crystals sparkled in the magical light.

“My goosebumps tell me that incredibly powerful dark magic is very close, but where could they be?” asked Sunset. She chewed her bottom lip impatiently. “There must be another part to this cave.”

Rarity, entranced by the glittering crystals, ran her alabaster hand along the damp wall. “Then we must be meticulous! This must be the place, or Raven wouldn’t have had it so carefully guarded.” She knelt and picked up a small crystal from the ground and placed it in her pocket. “These would be divine in a summer headdress or for a masquerade party!”

“Focus, Rarity. If we don’t figure this out quickly, the only dress we’ll need is for our funeral.” Applejack carefully circled the cavern in the opposite direction.

Pinkie bounced randomly from one side of the cave to the other, pushing off the wall each time with the handle of her handaxe. “From the top rope! Death from above!” she squealed as she repeatedly sprinted across the chamber.

Her antics caused an echo near Rarity, who heard pebbles moving near a brilliant crystal formation. She extended her arm, expecting to find a wall, and instead she found a narrow curving passageway. “Aha! Sunset, darling, please bring that ball of light over here. I’ve found a tunnel.” She grinned triumphantly, and placed a hand on her hip.

Sunset smiled at Rarity as they walked side-by-side. “Good work. I can feel the magic getting stronger!” The conjured ball of illumination floated ahead of them, and came to a sudden stop against a stretchy curtain made of pale white light.

“Cannonball! Make a hole!” screamed Pinkie.

Sunset and Rarity flattened themselves on opposite sides of the passage as Pinkie streaked by, her axe raised and her curly hair trailing behind her. She collided with the barrier and it stretched and flexed from the impact, but didn’t show any signs of giving way. Like a rubber band, the wall snapped back and tossed Pinkie to the ground.

Applejack raised her sickle, and helped Pinkie to her feet. “Get behind me, you crazy sugar cube! Maybe the direct approach will work better.” She tried to slice into the curtain of light, and the sickle got gummed up in the stretchy magical barrier. Grunting, she freed the tool.

Sunset raised her hands, and sent five arcane arrows forth from the Element of Redemption. They splashed harmlessly against the obstacle. She gritted her teeth and a gout of flame burst from her hands against the shimmering wall. Still, nothing happened.

“Dammit!” cursed Sunset, as she smacked her fist into her palm with frustration. “What made that thing? Its resonance didn’t even change. Powerful magic must have created it to be so flexible and so strong. This has Raven’s claws all over it!” she lapsed into more profanity as she futilely tried more simple spells.

Between flurries of arcane energy, Rarity stepped forward and pinched a corner of the pale curtain between her thumb and forefinger. She raised her painstakingly sculpted eyebrows, and turned towards Sunset. “Darling, it’s like a stretchy fabric. Maybe you have to hold it taut to cut it!”

“Maybe it’s like a rubber gasket. The O-rings at the farm start to break when it gets too cold in the winter,” added Applejack helpfully, adjusting her hat.

The cavern rumbled, causing Sunset’s green-blue eyes to widen with worry. She brushed her fiery hair out of her face, and placed a hand on her suddenly nauseous stomach. “This is taking too much time. I need to puzzle this out, and fast!”

“Did someone say puzzles?” intoned a deep, bemused voice from behind them. “Twists and turns are my master plan, after all!”

Pinkie dropped her handaxe, sprinted down the narrow passageway and hugged Discord so hard that she nearly knocked him over. “You’re alive! All of you are alive!” she shouted gleefully.

“Easy with the hugging, Pinkie. We’re all hurt!” grunted Rainbow Dash, who propped up the Spirit of Chaos to keep him from toppling over as a result of Pinkie’s affectionate assault.

Aria called from the back of the queue, as she rested Chainbreaker against the cave floor. “Some of us are hurt worse than others, but I’m happy to report that Canterlot High School now needs a new literature teacher!”

The tunnel erupted with cheers. After safeguarding the pointy parts of their improvised arsenal, everyone embraced everyone else. Fluttershy and Rarity led the storytelling session, rapidly summarizing their injuries, failures and eventual victories over Shrieking Raven and the aquatic monster masquerading as Twilight Sparkle.

As they were about to move on to the task at hand, Aria took the floor from Fluttershy. She pursed her lips, clutched at her stomach and frowned. “There’s one more thing that bears mentioning. Raven carried a dagger that has Adagio’s heart-pendant set into the pommel. Discord put it into the first aid kit in his backpack.”

“It’s one of the foulest weapons that I’ve ever encountered, and it is specially crafted to compel and destroy Adagio’s soul. She had plotted to use the Siren princess’ connection with Leviathan to steal his power somehow,” added the Spirit of Chaos, who shrugged off his backpack and removed the box. He double-checked that the clasps were securely shut. “The specifics of Raven’s elaborate plan died with her, since someone stubbornly whacked her head off before she could tell us what she intended!”

Aria opened her mouth to protest, but stopped when Fluttershy stepped between her and Discord. The look in her determined teal eyes contrasted vividly with her bloody shirt and neatly tied bandages. “We can worry about Aria’s timing in saving our lives later! Sunset and the girls need our help.”

Brandishing the final pink alicorn feather in her depleted supplies, Sunset motioned for everyone to crush closely together. “We need to be ready to fight. This may not heal us much, but every little bit helps!” The Element of Redemption glowed brightly, and the feather exploded into a cloud of fatigue-erasing powder.

“Oooh! I love the way that feels!” Pinkie energetically bounced up and down.

Rainbow Dash punched the air, creating intimidating shadows on the passageway’s wall. “It’s time to whoop some butt!”

“Alright, Discord, how do we breach this barrier?” asked Sunset.

The Spirit of Chaos fidgeted with his camoflague top while the butterfly lapel pin slowly walked up his chest to rest upon his shoulder. Tapping his temple with a gray-skinned finger, he said uncertainly, “Well, I’m not sure how much help I can be in there. My magic is slowly recovering after my fight with Raven, but in this world I’m puny compared to Big, Bad and Slimy.”

The cavern rumbled again. “Time’s up, Discord. More action. Fewer words. I have a feeling that Chainbreaker can do this if we use both Applejack and Rarity’s ideas together.” Sunset turned and began to issue orders. “Pinkie, you and Applejack stretch out the curtain.”

The handaxe and sickle hooked into the flexible obstacle and they pulled it back several feet into the passageway. Pinkie and Applejack grunted from the strain of holding the elastic energy in place.

“Fluttershy, you’ll find that the arrow with the snowflake on it is admirably suited for this purpose.” Discord snapped his fingers, and a tiny burst of white light appeared between his thumb and middle finger. His military hat replaced itself with an oversized ice cream cone.

The shy girl shook her head sadly, and looked up into the red eyes. “I’m sorry, Discord. When you got hurt, all of my arrows turned back to normal.”

The Spirit of Chaos winked, and the corners of his mouth lifted. “Check one more time, my dear.”

Amid the target shooting and hunting arrows, a single ice-blue shaft poked out of Fluttershy’s belt quiver. She nocked the rime-coated arrow and announced, “I’m ready, Sunset!”

Rarity gripped her cudgel and excitedly purred. “This teamwork is divine!”

“Just wait until you see the epic beatdown I’m going to lay on Adagio!” boasted Rainbow Dash.

“Okay, Aria, you’ll only get one shot, so make it a good one!” Sunset produced an enormous diamond, and began muttering under her breath. The Element of Redemption and the gem both glowed, reflecting Sunset’s green-blue magical aura. With a flash of brilliance, the energy leaped to Chainbreaker. The mixture of magical radiance crackled around the legendary weapon. The companions hugged the tunnel’s wall as best they could, making room for Aria and Fluttershy to use their weapons.

Flipping her pigtails behind her, Aria gritted her teeth, and gripped Chainbreaker with both hands. “Alright Fluttershy, fire over my shoulder. One. Two. Three!”

The icy arrow plunged into the stretched barrier, and its unearthly motion ceased as frost spread across it. Aria charged forward, and Chainbreaker, glowing momentarily with Sunset’s added eldritch power, crashed into the curtain. An arcane blast forced its way into the second cavern, destroying the obstacle.

Her red-and-gold hair streaming behind her, Sunset Shimmer’s body was enveloped with a bright magical aura as she intrepidly led her friends into the presence of He Who Swims in Darkness.

“Master, it is a great honor and an immense comfort to bask in your presence once again. Much has changed since we last spoke,” Adagio pressed both hands over her nauseous stomach, struggling to keep her voice steady as she addressed the being that slowly grew larger in the subterranean pool. She paced around the cavern as she waited for Leviathan’s permission to begin her report.

Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle whimpered in their cage. They alternated between huddling together with their eyes squeezed shut, and watching the pool intently. The fear engendered by He Who Swims in Darkness battled against their fascination with the magical energies swirling around the cavern.

The deep voice rumbled through the cavern. “It is a difficult, tiring journey across the ether after my long slumber, Adagio. I carry many burdens with me. If you truly wish to become Queen at last, perhaps you should speed my progress with a fresh sacrifice.”

Sweetie Belle’s green eyes popped open and she looked at Apple Bloom and Scootaloo with unhinged terror. She reiterated the obvious while stammering. “H-h-h-he m-means one of us!”

“Believe in your sisters! They’ve got to get here soon.” encouraged Scootaloo. The disembodied voice caused her to tremble with her fellow captives, but she fared significantly better than Sweetie Belle.

The time between responses steadily decreased, but the long delays aggravated Adagio. Over a half-hour had passed since He Who Swims in Darkness first announced himself, and the princess had barely completed the appropriate pleasantries with the dark being. She pursed her lips and tapped her cheekbone with an index finger as she thought. I need a chance to negotiate terms, and I must learn how this bloody ritual is to proceed. At least the tiara still seems to protect me from the worst of the Master’s terror.

Adagio gulped and leaned over the rocky lip that contained the semicircular pool. The surface of the water seemed to be tilting upwards, so she didn’t have to lean over very far any more. An inky blob containing two deep violet eyes took up over half of the water’s surface area, and Adagio could see the Master’s ten tentacles wriggling as they propelled his being towards Bridal Cave.

She brushed a stray lock of orange, curly hair out of her face, while keeping her voice firm. “With deepest respect, I will not provide a sacrifice at this time. I will remain patient, and I request an opportunity to discuss certain contingencies prior to my coronation.”

Apple Bloom narrowed her yellow eyes and used her confidence to calm Sweetie Belle for a moment. “See, just like she said, Adagio wants to keep us alive if she can. The more time she spends talking to this thing, the more chance we have of being rescued.”

“I see. Just like the First Queen, you wish to negotiate with me.” A gurgling noise that could only be Leviathan’s laugh interrupted his bone-rattling response. “Can you at least spare me a song, Princess Adagio Dazzle? Your musical voice is memorably nourishing.”

Surprised by her god’s laughter, Adagio raised her eyebrows. While running the implications of Leviathan’s mention of the First Queen through her mind, she cautiously responded only to the second half of his comment. “While I am honored by your compliment and your request, Master, I regret to remind you that my abilities have been reduced by my banishment to this low-magic world. Also, more recently, the gem you gave to me when I became a Siren has been shattered by the servants of the alicorns. My singing is but a shadow of what it used to be centuries ago.”

Adagio could tell when her words reached Leviathan. The inky tentacles waved wildly, and she braced for an unpleasant response. Signaling annoyance that bordered on anger, Leviathan’s deep voice rumbled. “What use are you then, Adagio? Never forget that you are mine! Your sustained beauty and long life are possible only through my magic. What have you brought to give to your Master?”

“I have three females on the cusp of maturity to give to you.” Adagio gestured to the cage. “Their sacrifice would seal the bargain that you have made with Aquastrian queens for generations.”

In the pool, which now defied the laws of physics and sloped upwards at a forty-five degree angle, Leviathan’s glowing violet eyes narrowed to slits. “You ask much with very little to give in return, Siren princess. My bargain with your mother maintained her power as long as she expanded the Empire into the surface world. Because of your defeat and her failure to defend the capital, my temple has been destroyed. Restoring my dominion in Aquastria will require a new bargain. Three souls is only the first of many offerings that I require to regain my proper place beneath the waves.”

“My God! That thing is talking about us like we’re groceries, and Adagio isn’t making any headway in her promise to try and save us.” Sweetie Belle moaned with despair. She squeezed her eyes shut, and pillowed her head on Scootaloo’s lap.

Scootaloo stroked her friend’s two-toned hair with her bound hands. The blood drained from her orange-tinted skin, and she shivered involuntarily. “I’m trying as hard as I can, but I can’t be brave for much longer. Our souls are being bartered away.”

Pressing her face against the cage’s door, Apple Bloom peered through the dark magical mist, and saw that the semicircular pool resembled a window into a dark expanse of infinity. A dark black blob shaped somewhat like a human face peered through the shimmering curtain of water that inexplicably tilted up towards the cavern’s ceiling. Its malevolent violet eyes were fixed upon the Siren.

Her red bow hopelessly askew, Apple Bloom called out to the gateway. “Mister, excuse me. Adagio said that she wanted me to serve her in Aquastria. How does that happen?”

The terrifying eyes flicked over to the cage, and the violet mist expanded from the subterranean pool, and filled half of the spherical cavern. When the fog reached the cage, the three captives screamed in terror and toppled to the cave floor. Too terrified to speak, they held onto each other’s quivering limbs.

Leviathan’s gurgling laugh and growing power forced Adagio to grit her teeth to keep from retching. Darkly bemused, he stopped his disgusting chortle. “Princess Adagio, you have chosen bold sacrifices. I am close enough to sense that their spirits are quite strong! Binding them to me may crown you, but it won’t win you the throne.” The darkness between the being’s eyes spasmed. “I’m insulted that you were forced to cooperate with Vecna’s Herald, but I understand how persuasive his servants can be. Once we conclude our business, Vecna and I have much to discuss. At any rate, you are mistaken about the shortage of magic in this world. There’s a veritable font of power just beyond that barrier.” With an inky tentacle, Leviathan gestured at the pale curtain of light that Shrieking Raven had conjured before teleporting to the battlefield to confront Discord.

Adagio had started to perspire, despite the cave’s cool dampness. She unzipped the black fleece vest, took a deep breath and fidgeted with her tiara. After a long pause she asked, “Master, may I speak plainly?”

Two of the tentacles crossed over themselves beneath the being’s violet eyes. “The alicorn’s rainbow must have addled your mind by separating you from me, Adagio.” Leviathan’s voice sped up and rose a half-octave in its exasperation. “I’ll endure much to shorten this ridiculous delay in receiving my sacrifices. Fine. I will not show my displeasure if you ‘speak plainly’ for a moment.”

The three girls continued to writhe in despair on the cave floor. Adagio glanced back at them, and then stepped to the edge of the pool and looked up at her Master’s form. “I have an enduring obligation to you for granting me the benefits of being your Siren. I also acknowledge that your magical power kept order in Aquastria, and permitted the Empire to thrive.” She raised her index finger, and narrowed her magenta eyes. “But upon my return, I must also lead the mermares, and inspire them to take their proper place in our society. Restoring your laws will require conquest, and I will need your help to reclaim what’s ours. Still, in a thousand years, I’ve never been able to figure out the first step. Master, how will you get me home?”

Leviathan’s eyes narrowed dangerously, another set of tentacles crossed over one another, and the lowest appendage on his left side bobbed up and down rhythmically. “You anger me with your doubt, and with your prevaricating. Still, I will keep my word and not punish you. Once I crown you, using the energy that the sacrifices will give me, my power will be such that you will just have to walk through the veil before you, and you will be in my domain. From here, I can easily take you to Aquastria.”

“Master, I’m not done speaking plainly. I am fully aware that conquest and war require death, but as my magic has bled away during the past few days, I have recalled my mother’s murderous decisions.” Adagio straightened herself and her dark tiara sparkled in the dim light. “I will not repeat her mistakes. I have realized that it is folly to slay those that could be useful to us. I want you to transform the three females in the cage, and not claim them.”

Dark motes flashed across Leviathan’s violet eyes, and the tentacles uncrossed themselves and reached towards the veil separating him from the cave. “You are bold, Princess! Perhaps I should have heeded the high priestess and permitted your mother’s assassination to start your reign sooner. What you want is irrelevant. What you have chosen is at hand. I need three sacrifices, Adagio. More is better, but I need at least three.”

“Master, I have chosen nothing yet.” Adagio took a step back, and it became her turn to cross her arms over her chest. “Raven and Vecna called you here, not me. I know the sacrifices, and I know the depth of their talents. They will certainly give you more power as Sirens, continually sending you a stream of magic from this vulnerable world.” She grew even more daring, and flashed Leviathan her seductively crooked smile. “The magic that you granted me long ago has been bleeding out of me since the rainbow shattered my heart-pendant. If you wish for me to use that power for your benefit, I suggest you accept this offer, since my time is short!”

Leviathan thundered, shaking several celestite crystals free of the cavern walls. “My patience with you is even shorter, Adagio!” The tentacles slowed their wriggling, and he continued in a more measured tone. “But, I am not without gratitude for your part in my reawakening.”

The dark being lifted a black tentacle and touched it to the barrier between worlds. Adagio thought she heard a hiss of pain along with distant anguished moans. The veil rippled, and a flow of pure midnight dripped to the cave floor. It coalesced itself into a bar of darkness six feet long that sprouted three cruelly barbed tines at one end. He Who Swims in Darkness withdrew his appendage, and the weapon clattered loudly as it fell.

Astonished, Adagio covered her mouth with yellow-tinted fingers. “This is the Trident that my mother wielded in battle after you transformed me! With this, I will surely rally the mermares to my banner.”

“Pick it up, Your Highness. It is the weapon of Aquastrian queens, after all.” He Who Swims in Darkness’ deep voice flowed like an oil slick. He spread his tentacles, imploring Adagio. “I know you must remember the powerful magic in your mother’s crown. The magic in your crown will cause you to become the greatest Queen the Aquastrian Empire has ever known. To give it to you, I require that you personally sacrifice those females to me. The Trident, the crown and my aid will all be yours. You must raise an army to return the seaponies, narwhal, aqualions and the others to their proper place: Chained beneath my black tentacles!”

Bewitched by Leviathan’s words, Adagio meekly crouched down towards the cave floor. Her fingers curled around the vicious weapon. Goosebumps raised on her skin as the Trident’s arcane power coursed through her body. The remnants of fear fled her tortured mind, replaced by feelings of confidence, superiority and servitude to He Who Swims in Darkness.

"I will execute my duty to my people. What must I do, Master?" she asked as she rose

The dark being radiated pleasure with the Siren’s decision to grasp the Trident. “It is very simple, Your Highness. Or should I say, ‘Your Majesty’ instead? My aura of terror will keep the sacrifices hopeless. Bring them to the edge of this pool, pierce them with the Trident in my name, and then roll them through the veil. Once this is done, I will give you your crown, restore your voice and take you home to Aquastria to begin our war.”

With Leviathan’s mood improving, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle felt their terror recede for a moment. They opened their eyes and beheld Adagio basking in the horrible power of He Who Swims in Darkness. The Princess removed her black fleece vest, and tossed it to the ground. As Adagio approached the cage, her orange curls flowed behind her on an unfelt breeze, and her magenta eyes revealed an unhinged, predatory gleam.

Her hips swayed seductively, as if she were sleepwalking across the cavern. “Very well, Master,” she said dreamily.

“Excellent, Adagio. Just listen to my voice. That’s all that matters, now. Pick your first offering to me, though I hunger for them all,” intoned Leviathan. His black form eagerly pressed as close as it could to the window between worlds without touching it. The violet mist intensified near the watery veil, and the lanterns’ sickly light flickered even more eerily throughout the cavern.

Unlocking the cage, Adagio reached inside and roughly grabbed the first limb that came into her grasp. Apple Bloom screamed, but her body succumbed to terror and refused to obey its mind’s command to fight back. As Adagio dragged her out of the cage, Apple Bloom’s red bow came untied and slipped out of her scarlet hair.

Adagio locked the cage and looked down at her prey in a sickening mockery of kindness. “This is the best I can do for you, little one. You will serve, though I am a bit saddened that you will not serve me as a clan chief, or possibly even as a Princess one day. At least you won’t have to watch your friends perish.”

The long red ribbon floated on a swirling current of air towards the center of the cavern. Suddenly, the sound of metal striking metal chinked loudly, followed by a green-blue explosion that breached the barrier blocking the path back to Lake Piebald. Five pairs of eyes darted towards the passage. Adagio jumped as if she had just been awakened from a bad dream.

Bruised, battered, soaking wet, and cloaked in arcane radiance, Sunset Shimmer boldly stepped into the spherical cave. Wordlessly, she picked up the red ribbon from the ground, and held it reverently in her hands. As Adagio used her boot to roll Apple Bloom towards the dark being, Sunset’s hands clenched into fists. The Element of Redemption glowed ominously, as Discord, Aria, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Applejack hurried into the cavern with their weapons at the ready.

He Who Swims in Darkness loosed his disgusting watery laugh. “Adagio, it appears that your sacrificial options have increased. Perhaps you will be able to make clan chiefs out of the young females after all.” He pointed a tentacle at Aria, who frowned fiercely while brandishing Chainbreaker. Leviathan’s violet eyes fixated upon the glowing mace, and his voice suddenly raged with a hysterical edge. “But first, you will bring me the heart of the Oathbreaker’s Daughter. She has betrayed us both, and she now serves our enemy. Destroy the weapon she carries! Adagio, I demand you kill Aria Blaze!"

Author's Note

After more than 200,000 words, the grand confrontation is at hand! I’ll keep my comments brief after such a lengthy chapter. The rest of the team was overseas helping others, consumed with vital business, or otherwise indisposed during this two-week period. So, SerenaAveline deserves a special commendation for her solo editing/prereading work for this update! She sagely insisted upon consistency, slayed stray punctuation marks and offered tremendous suggestions that I hope you all enjoy.

I can’t thank you enough for devoting so many hours of your busy lives to reading this story. If you have a few more minutes, please take a look at my blog post that debuts Dane of Celestia’s newest work “Reflection of Innocence.” I am impatient to learn what you think about this update, and I eagerly look forward to your comments!

Chapter Twenty-Six

Sunset Shimmer could barely keep her hands from quivering in fear as she tightly gripped the red ribbon that had fluttered free of Apple Bloom’s hair. As an imperceptible aura flowed through the cavern and surrounded her, she felt an icy chill course through her veins, and her breath hitched as an invisible hand gripped her heart. Even taking a single step forward severely intensified the crippling influences that threatened to incapacitate her. Shuddering, she gritted her teeth and strained her focus in order to assess the tableau before her.

Apple Bloom lay on the rocky ground with her hands and feet bound, her amber eyes wide with unbridled terror as she looked up at Adagio. Simultaneously regal, sinister and beautiful, the Siren held a black trident in her hands, its barbed tines pointing towards the chamber’s ceiling. The spiky hair ornament that she wore throughout the Battle of the Bands had been transformed into a sparkling tiara, and her orange curls waved seductively on a cloud of eerie violet mist.

The being behind both Adagio and Apple Bloom was backlit by sickly green light, framed by an oval of water that had somehow risen from a subterranean pool. Its body appeared to be a blob of midnight trailing ten wriggling tentacles, and its furious violet eyes illuminated hints of an anthropomorphic face. The inky cloud surrounding Leviathan obscured any other details about him and the infinite expanse that appeared to trail behind him.

Sunset tried to step forward, but was forced to stagger back with a gasp as the aura enrapturing her faculties flared in intensity. Despite her advance knowledge, she was unprepared for the sheer magnitude of terror and despair emanating from He Who Swims in Darkness. The panic twisting in her gut threatened to make her sick, and she briefly felt a desire to fall to her knees in a combination of hopelessness and servitude. Still ablaze with arcane energy, Sunset warded off the oppressive forces and began weaving a spell to bolster mental fortitude.

Leviathan pointed a single tentacle at Aria Blaze, while those terrible eyes reflected the pure white light emanating from Chainbreaker. A voice like an undersea volcano erupting shouted an order at Adagio with a passion that shook the cavern’s walls. “But first, you will bring me the heart of the Oathbreaker’s Daughter. She has betrayed us both, and she now serves our enemy. Destroy the weapon she carries! Adagio, I demand you kill Aria Blaze!”

“ 'Oathbreaker’s Daughter?' ” Sunset blurted in spite of herself, and quivered as her focus briefly faltered. Growling, she renewed her concentration and flung her arms outward, releasing the spell that would augment her companions' mental fortitude. Her nausea abated and a wave of warmth countered the ice in her veins, but she could feel the terror waiting just outside of the flimsy mental barrier created through her magic. Behind her, she heard a collective sigh of relief as her friends stood taller and removed their hands from their stomachs.

Leviathan chortled at Sunset’s magic, making a disgusting organic sound that reminded Sunset of bubbles floating to the top of the water cooler at Pinkie’s house. Wordlessly, the dark being dispersed the thick violet mist surrounding Adagio and Apple Bloom and spread it throughout the cavern, pressing his subtle mental assault on the courage-engendering spell.

As the mist flowed away, the presence clouding Adagio's mind extracted itself in a feeling similar to a splinter being pulled from one's finger. Blinking her eyes rapidly, the Siren gazed up and the barbed tines of the Black Trident in her hands and jumped like a child awakened during the midst of sleepwalking. Narrowing her glowing magenta eyes, she shook the disorientation from her mind and rapidly regained her composure. “There’s no need to slay her, Master,” she said confidently while extending her free hand and beckoning, “Come to my side, Aria. Come serve your Queen.”

Aria, suffused with rage, continued to hold Chainbreaker in a ready position with both hands. The weapon’s brilliant white light illuminated her face as she screamed at Leviathan. “My mother was faithful to the Empire! My mother protected the Empire! She devoted her life to Aquastria to the point where she gave me to you!”

“Listen to my voice, Adagio,” intoned Leviathan. “Is that the way that a devoted servant acts? Like mother, like daughter. Aria betrayed you, just like her mother betrayed your mother! Tap your memories of Aquastria, Your Highness. Do you really think the slaves could have overthrown your mother without help?”

Wheeling around, the Siren Princess’ dropped her proffered hand as her mouth fell open, and her magenta eyes widened in disbelief. She asked, “Aria is this true? I know nothing of your mother after our banishment, but have you betrayed me?”

Leviathan interrupted before she could answer. “Aria will not answer you truthfully, Princess. Kill her and bring me a sacrifice!”

“What are you waiting for, Sunset? Cast a big spell! Turn into the phoenix again!” Rainbow Dash shouted, spreading her arms wide with impatience while her eyes flicked over towards the cage where Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle cowered in abject terror.

Pinkie, her face tinged with green, pressed her left hand over her stomach while stage whispering to Sunset. “It’s time for the super duper rainbow friendship blast, right? Dial it up, quick!” Her poofy pink curls lost volume and began to straighten.

As Aria strode past her, Sunset frowned and shook her head. “All of my spellcasting doesn’t feel right. Even if I was able to do my part by tapping into my Element, I don’t think all of us could. I don’t feel anything like I did during the Battle of the Bands.” She gritted her teeth and reinforced the spell that prevented panic, while the immense arcane weight of He Who Swims in Darkness demanded she invest an increasing amount of her concentration simply to keep despair at bay.

Maintaining a safe distance so as not to provoke any harm to Apple Bloom, Aria attempted to get through to Adagio before Leviathan reasserted his control over her. She gestured plaintively with her left hand, and her voice took on a desperate edge. “Adagio, I’ve learned that what we have been doing for centuries is wrong! Taking away others’ choices doesn’t serve the Empire, it just gave him more slaves and more power. Everything that he stands for is evil!”

Adagio stammered, “But Aria, the phone call, the text messages and your infiltration of the Rainbooms?” She suddenly bared her teeth, hardened her gaze on Aria and angrily raised her voice. “Silence! Answer your Princess’ question! Have you betrayed me?” She punctuated her question with a metallic tap of the Trident’s handle that narrowly missed Apple Bloom’s leg. As the impact rang throughout the cavern, Leviathan’s creepy violet eyes glittered with pleasure.

Keeping Chainbreaker at the ready, Aria turned and nodded at Sunset, then gave Adagio an apologetic gesture that was half of a bow and half of a curtsy. “I see that the stress of your impending coronation has caused you to abandon the rules we’ve followed for so long. Very well, Your Highness, may I attempt to explain?”

“Kill her, Adagio! Seize the weapon she carries! Her treason can’t be explained, nor can it be forgiven.” Leviathan’s impatience swept over every living being in the cavern.

While Leviathan focused on Adagio and Aria, Discord discreetly approached Sunset from the side and handed her the metal first aid box. Gazing deeply into her eyes, he intoned, “Just like you told me not to touch the leaf from the Tree of Harmony, you are not to touch what is in this box! However, you can show Adagio what’s in it. She needs to know that the prospective Queen is being treated like a pawn.” He leaned forward and whispered into her ear. “Sunset, my powers are still very weak after my fight with Raven. I can reduce Leviathan’s dark influence for a time, but soon I will tire and you’ll have to face the full brunt of his dark aura yourself. Take precautions and work quickly.” Not waiting for a response, he headed for a collection of stalactites and stalagmites close to Leviathan. Fluttershy nodded at Sunset and followed Discord, and Pinkie sped after them towards the dark being.

“Adagio, they can’t band together to use the Equestrian magic that I sense within them. My dark power smothers their fragmented sparks! I assure you, obey me by killing Aria and you will be safe,” boomed Leviathan.

Discord poked his head around a large stalactite and waved at He Who Swims in Darkness, drawing his attention. “Yoo-hoo! Krak-Daddy! Remember me, you silver-tongued devil? It’s been ages since that time you invited me to that parade from Nautilus Hall to your delightfully dreary home in that trench. Why don’t we catch up on a millennium or two while these two mortals hash out their little disagreement? It may yet end in a battle to the death! I remember how much you enjoy that.”

Leviathan’s gaze shifted to the Spirit of Chaos, and Discord’s smirk morphed into distress. He snapped his fingers, and Sunset Shimmer’s maroon bathrobe appeared over the top of his clothing. “Now, Leviathan, it’s not polite to look at me like a tuna steak. We were never that close.”

“Discord, you are much changed from the being I remember, and I smell the stench of Vecna’s Herald on you.” The inky cloud surrounding Leviathan billowed excitedly. “She must be dead, you are wounded, and something else prevents you from accessing the full range of your powers!” One eye widened, while the other narrowed, adding to the impression that the dark being was sizing up the Spirit of Chaos.

“What can we do to help you?” asked Fluttershy softly. She gripped Discord’s arm to stop her hands from shaking.

Pinkie linked elbows with the Spirit of Chaos on the other side. She smiled weakly and quipped, “I wonder what god-flavored sushi tasted like? That would take a ton of rice and a vat of soy sauce!” Her nonsensical joke made them chuckle, and the violet gaze didn’t seem so oppressive for a moment.

“Fluttershy, things like that will aid us all,” whispered Discord, momentarily squeezing his arm against his body to emphasize his point. “We have to distract Leviathan and draw his attention while Sunset and Aria try to prevent a violent end to this drama.”

Silently, Sunset waved Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Rarity towards the cage. As they reached the thicker violet mist at the back of the cave, their pace slowed and the trio slumped to their knees next to the cage. The young women reached inside to touch the terrified pair of girls inside.

Still angry and confused, Adagio addressed Leviathan’s original question. “Master, while we have been outside the sound of your voice for centuries, I have grown to trust Aria’s observations and advice. We have shared our banishment together, and I will be the one to judge her!” Her Master was so consumed with Discord’s appearance that he ignored her, causing her to kick a pebble in frustration.

“Adagio, you accuse Aria of treason, but what of your crimes since the Battle of the Bands?” Sunset took advantage of the opening, calling out to Adagio as she stepped forward to stand beside Aria.

Blood-red lightning danced between the Trident’s tines, and Adagio’s visage twisted with rage. “You let her speak on your behalf, and permit her to stand with you? That would be enough to seal your fate in my mother’s court!” She gripped the weapon in both hands and slowly lowered the barbs toward Aria.

“That’s the point, Adagio! You’re not your mother, and you don’t need to be trapped by her decisions,” pleaded Aria, lowering Chainbreaker’s head to the cave floor. “By the Maelstrom, stop making pronouncements and listen to me before it’s too late! You’re being used, Your Highness. When I followed the girl who trembles at your feet from the farm, I had an awakening of sorts. May I tell you about it?” Her eyes sparkled with zeal.

Leviathan inhaled, drawing in the purple mist, and interrupted. “You are rapidly consuming what little goodwill I have left, Your Highness.” His violet eyes glowed more brightly, and the inky cloud surrounding him swirled with a surge of darker currents. “Stop this nonsense. Seize and destroy the mace and the unicorn’s necklace! Nourish me with a fresh sacrifice!” He exhaled the sickly violet cloud, where it hugged the ground and continued its inexorable drag on the group’s spirit. He returned his attention to Discord, who was in the middle of acting out a spirited argument between sock puppets of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.

Adagio pursed her lips, looked back at the watery gate, and with a flip of her orange curls, she serenely nodded at the pigtailed Siren. “Proceed, Aria. Tell me of this ‘awakening.’” Leviathan gurgled disapprovingly at Adagio’s mercy.

“Until our defeat just a few days ago, we chose to think only of how we would feed ourselves by stirring up negative emotions, and we dreamt of a home that no longer exists,” Aria said assertively, gesturing with her free hand while Chainbreaker rested on her right shoulder. “I watched Apple Bloom and Scootaloo lay flowers at their parents’ graves, and I vividly remembered our farewells to our mothers before our transformation. Even beyond death their family is united, while all we did as Sirens was split others apart!”

Adagio twisted her lips in disdain while her authoritative voice dripped with disappointment. “We were always united as Sirens by our shared hunger, and our devotion to our Master,” she gestured to the being behind her. “I could almost accept this sentimental nonsense coming from Sonata, but from you it only serves to show me how much these humans have turned you from your true purpose.”

Aria vigorously shook her pigtails and pointed at the Siren Princess in a confident declaration. “No, Adagio! I couldn’t handle the conflict between who I should have been – who I am now – and what I had done as a Siren. My body collapsed and my mind wandered. I stood on a path. Behind me, I saw my old Master, terrifying and enraged, promising a long life. But, that life would be full of only hunger and darkness. Ahead of me, I saw the endless possibilities of a mortal life free of He Who Swims in Darkness’ tentacles!” Her voice and her left fist shook with passion.

“Aria, for generations, your family served the Empire,” said Adagio sympathetically, as Aria’s heartfelt declaration caused her previous anger to diminish. She raised the tines of the Trident back towards the ceiling as she continued. “I know nothing of this betrayal that the Master speaks of, because I remember Captain Focused Blaze with great respect. I understand how drawn you are to acts of valor and sacrifice, but it’s our duty to return to Aquastria and lead our people! Allying with the banshee was distasteful, but necessary. Only Raven and her Lord could have brought the Master here to take us home.”

With a deep breath, Sunset Shimmer steeled her resolve against the fear plaguing her mind and stepped forward. She placed a supportive hand on Aria's shoulder, and her voice was laced with regret as she addressed Adagio. “I could have helped you just like my friends helped me turn away from a path of darkness. Twilight could have helped you, but you never asked or explained yourself before beating up Sonata, and then plotting to kill Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” said Adagio sarcastically, placing her free hand on her hip. “After you destroyed my heart-pendant and cast me adrift, I was supposed to extend my hand to you in friendship? Do you even know what you did to us? You sentenced all three of us to death!”

Aria emphatically knifed the air with her free hand. “Death we’ve escaped only through Leviathan’s evil magic! If we had lived out our lives in Aquastria, we’d be long dead! We’ve plotted and planned. We’ve fed on negative emotions, and we’ve willfully hurt others. Our hunger, which comes from him,” she pointed Chainbreaker at the distracted being, “caused us to never do anything truly worthy of our long lives. Existing isn’t living. At last, I have proven myself worthy. I helped Sunset forge this weapon, I followed her to this terrible place battling enemies the entire way, and I delivered the final blow to destroy Shrieking Raven.” She rested Chainbreaker on her right shoulder, proudly tossing her purple-and-teal pigtails.

Leviathan’s eyes broke away from Discord’s performance, and he interrupted before Adagio could speak. “I will need to offer amends for permitting the destruction of Vecna’s Herald. Discord will do nicely if he fails to amuse me.” Blood drained from the Spirit of Chaos’ face as Leviathan fixed him with his unnerving stare. “The Chained God, when he woke me, specifically mentioned that he is still furious about your banning his servants from Equestria. So, tell me more of how Luna became Nightmare Moon, unless you’d like to join the ranks of the walking dead!”

On the other side of the cavern, Discord gulped and resumed his storytelling, which was building towards an epic conclusion. He conjured magical effects to supplement his telling of Nightmare Moon’s banishment. Fluttershy nervously held a white cardboard disc high above her head, while Pinkie Pie cradled a detailed model of a stone castle. Leviathan watched the production and Discord’s manipulation of the sock puppets with rapt interest.

“Luna!” cried Aria. “So, Lady Luna did fall to darkness, just like we—“ Sunset purposely gripped Aria’s left bicep to interrupt her.

Sunset placed a finger over her lips and slowly shook her head, her green-blue eyes wide with fear as she whispered, "Not now, Aria!"

Adagio gazed upon Aria, and then looked down at Apple Bloom, who still quaked in terror at the Siren Princess’ feet. “We give He Who Swims in Darkness a small offering to protect our entire society. It’s not unlike falling in battle, Aria. Just like in war, the sacrifices’ deaths will have purpose and will serve the Empire. You have shown me no good reason to abandon the partnership between our Master and the Aquastrian royal family.”

“There must be something else I can do to convince you of the deadly, unforgivable mistake that you’re about to make, Adagio,” said Aria sadly. The corners of her mouth tugged downwards, and her lower lip quivered. “He Who Swims in Darkness is correct. I learned that shortly after our banishment, my mother disobeyed yours, and she unbarred the door to the throne room during a slave rebellion. Captain Focused Blaze was killed by the other guards as the rebels stormed the palace. The leader of these rebels, and the first Aquastrian Chancellor, slew your mother and destroyed the Temple.”

Without looking away at Discord’s performance, Leviathan interjected. “I told you, Adagio! You would have avoided this turbulent moment if you had listened to me in the first place.”

Adagio’s mouth fell open, and she nervously ran her free hand through her long orange hair. Her mind working feverishly, the expressions on her face flashed between shock, disbelief and fury. When she finally gathered the wherewithal to speak, Adagio’s icy voice escaped through clenched teeth. “Oathbreaker’s Daughter, indeed! So, this betrayal is how you come to wield a weapon that our Master fears!”

Turning her head and respectfully nodding to Sunset, Aria brandished Chainbreaker in a defensive position and declared, “Your Highness, I freely and proudly admit that I no longer serve He Who Swims in Darkness, and no longer follow your orders. Instead, I serve Lady Luna and would follow Sunset Shimmer into the Maelstrom itself!”

On the other side of the cavern, Rarity squeezed Sweetie Belle’s trembling hands through the bars of the aluminum cage. The fashionista’s composure was rapidly eroding under Leviathan’s steady magical assault, but she kept her voice breezy in an attempt to steady her sister. “Sweetie Belle, Sunset will save us! She and Aria will stop Adagio and then we’ll all run away from that horrid collection of tentacles.”

Sweetie Belle’s pale green eyes opened upon hearing Rarity’s seemingly confident voice. Tears continued to stream down her face, but she sniffed her nose clear and looked lucidly into her sister’s face, the two pairs of white hands fiercely gripping one another.

“Apple Bloom has been so brave, Applejack,” Scootaloo’s voice shook as she pressed her orange-tinted face against the farmgirl’s hands. “Adagio wants her most of all, probably because she’s been such a great leader.”

Applejack felt her own nausea abate for a moment, as she looked down at Scootaloo and gave her a weak smile. “Thanks for telling me that, sugar cube. I’m proud of her and we have to save her. But what in tarnation can we do against a watery demon?”

Her teeth uncharacteristically chattering, Rainbow Dash rubbed her injured shoulder and nodded towards Adagio, who had her back to them. “You know, if we can get that giant fork away from Adagio and get Apple Bloom, there’s no reason we can’t make a run for it. Watch this!” She struggled to her feet, unsteadily made her way through the purple mist, and then suddenly fell to her knees next to Adagio’s pack. Several objects fell to the cave floor, and Rainbow Dash grabbed what appeared to be a large bedsheet and held it to her chest like a terrified child clutching a stuffed animal. Her light purple eyes were unfocused, and she turned away from the watery gate as she trembled.

Rarity twisted her lips and rolled her eyes at Rainbow Dash’s ill-conceived action. Shivering, she dispensed a sarcastic observation. “I think that’s a pretty strong reason why we can’t just get up and leave.”

Shaking her head, Applejack looked out at her immobilized friend. “Do you think Rainbow Dash will ever learn her lesson about just sprinting into trouble?”

“She’d better be careful, or it might be her final lesson. That said, she is right about one thing, darling,” Focus returned to Rarity’s blue eyes as she assessed the situation, and her voice quivered as she reached her judgment. “That trident is bad news, and we dare not risk using that unpredictable rainbow magic until we can be sure it won’t hurt Apple Bloom. I just hope Sunset can come up with something before Discord runs out of distractions.”

Upon hearing Aria’s proud admission, Adagio’s fury evaporated, and her knees buckled slightly, which forced her to grab on to the Trident with both hands to keep from falling over. Her mouth fell open slightly as her gazed locked onto the mace-user, her eyes shifting slightly in their stare as if searching for something.

Sunset took advantage of her surprise and Leviathan’s inattention to produce her last snowy white alicorn feather and her next-to-last purple feather. Concentrating intently and muttering beneath her breath, she cast a powerful spell similar to the ward she used against Shrieking Raven. She conjured three tapered candles, each of which formed into a foot-long braided spiral of purple and white. They burned with a golden flame that pushed away some of the purple mist that engendered terror and hopelessness. One candle appeared at Sunset’s feet, a second popped into existence next to Discord and the third burned next to Rarity, who crouched at the cage’s locked door.

The Siren Princess shook her head to clear it, and then snarled at Aria and Sunset. She gripped the Black Trident in both hands and took a menacing step forward.

“Hold on and calm down.” Sunset held up her hands and spoke authoritatively as she stood between the two Sirens whose magical weapons remained poised and at the ready. “Adagio, you accuse Aria of betrayal, but what of your actions since the Battle of the Bands? For example, before any of this started, you assaulted Sonata.”

Adagio's shock had completely disappeared and transformed completely into haughty fury. She spat forth a response through clenched teeth. “She is my subject, and she dared to insult us by implying that we were nothing more than human. I consider a beating to be a light punishment for such an offense.”

Despite the flickers of lightning dancing between the Black Trident’s tines, Sunset raised her eyebrow and lightly rebuked Adagio. “I think we can forgive Sonata for her confusion in this situation. After all, it’s not whether you label me a unicorn mare or a human female; it’s what’s at the core of our beings that counts.”

“Oh, you’re truly desperate if you must resort to such heroic clichés, Sunset!” Adagio threw her head back, and laughed derisively. “What angered me is the fact that Sonata insinuated that we are mortal. I’ve been walking on two legs much, much longer than you have. So, is that all?” The Siren Princess cocked her head in challenge.

Pointing at the discarded pack on the ground near the cage, Sunset stood with arms akimbo. “Not even close, Adagio. You broke into my apartment and stole my belongings.”

“Consider my relief of your ill-gotten gains a sort of justice for your previous larceny in this world and in Equestria. After all, you’ve taken many things that don’t belong to you. I’m amazed that your theft of a kiss from your friend’s married father didn’t wreak more havoc, especially since it cost so much of the Carousel Boutique’s profits to keep you quiet.” Adagio pointedly stole a glance at Rarity, and seductively mocked Sunset. “If the rumors at Canterlot High School are true, I expected Rarity’s pristine white skin to turn green with jealousy.”

On the opposite side of the chamber, Sweetie Belle’s terrified green eyes searched Rarity’s face for an explanation. The fashionista began to stammer, and the candle nearby dimmed dangerously as it burned. Desperate to change the subject, Sunset bit her bottom lip, and levied another accusation at Adagio. “You kidnapped Scootaloo, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, and you intend to murder them!”

“Technically, Raven kidnapped them, and this sacrifice is what I must do to return home. My Master’s power is the only way to protect my people from that terrible banshee and her undead Lord!” shouted Adagio. She regained her composure, ran her free hand through her sumptuous curls and stroked her chin thoughtfully, as a sarcastic tone entered her voice. “Hmm… But Sunset, if I recall correctly, my plan isn’t much different from what you nearly pulled off this past fall when you sprouted wings and started slinging fireballs.”

Sunset’s temper began to flare, causing smoke to rise from the Element of Redemption and her clothing. “Dammit, Adagio! My point is that you don’t have to do this! Didn’t you listen to Aria? Raven has been destroyed!” She carefully opened the first aid box and displayed the banshee’s bronze dagger. Sunset softened her voice and looked deep into Adagio’s eyes. “Raven plotted to have you killed in a specifically horrific way that would also destroy He Who Swims in Darkness, but because Aria won the battle, we have your heart-pendant’s shards! If your voice and long life is what this is all about, forget your Master. Leave with us, and we can try to restore your magic without sacrifices and murder!”

“But what of my duty to Aquastria? My duty to the mermares?” Adagio’s magenta eyes grew wistful, and she looked beyond Sunset towards the cavern’s exit. Her grip on the Black Trident loosened, and the red lightning extinguished itself.

Apple Bloom looked up at the imposing Siren Princess, the flickering light from the conjured candles emphasizing her emotions as it reflected off of her tear-filled amber eyes. She gathered what little courage she possessed and spoke. “Adagio, please come with us. Sunset can make anything at my father’s forge, I just know it!”

Adagio looked down at Apple Bloom. She began kindly, “Little one—“

“Vecna plotted to drain my divinity through my Siren?” Leviathan suddenly broke into the conversation. The cavern shook so furiously that a stalactite crashed from the ceiling. Discord saved himself, Pinkie and Fluttershy by conjuring an enormous golf umbrella made of trampoline material, causing the rocks to bounce harmlessly to the cave floor. “Adagio, we must have our revenge! Give me my sacrifices! With you as Queen, we will marshal my resources and gather slaves in Aquastria.” Leviathan paused his assault on the three warding candles and concentrated the sickly violet mist in a thick cloud surrounding Adagio.

Helping Pinkie and Fluttershy to their feet, Discord carefully picked up the purple and white candle and edged back towards the center of the cavern. “So, this is a lovely party, but I think that you need some time alone with your date to work through this disagreement.” The Spirit of Chaos’ military outfit morphed into a camouflage tuxedo. Since we all arrived with Sunset, it’s only polite for the three of us to check on her.”

Leviathan’s eyes glimmered in sinister glee as his evil fog caused Adagio’s hair to billow and her expression to harden. The Siren princess gripped the Black Trident once again as she warned Discord. “Whoever you are, you’d better stop right there! This concert’s not even close to ending, and you’ve committed to the entire show, whether you know it or not. I get nervous with this thing in my hands. I’m sure you wouldn’t want me to slip and hurt this girl.”

“But Adagio, Sunset brought you a gift. Don’t you want to see it?” prompted Discord, who produced a wrapped box of chocolates from somewhere in his jacket. Pinkie ripped off the decorative paper and stuffed several pieces of candy into her mouth, restoring some vibrancy to her pink curls.

Sunset took the hint, cradling the box containing Raven’s dagger, and she angrily pointed at the evil being beyond the veil. The glow from her magical amulet steadied and grew in brilliance. “You will never defeat our spirit. We have defeated Raven’s horde, and we are resisting your foul magic. You can scare and intimidate Adagio, but it’s obvious that you need her to consciously choose to kill Apple Bloom to provide you with power.” She spoke with confidence and certainty, while arcane power swirled around her. “You always have a choice, Adagio. This creature is trying to fool you into thinking that his path is the only one. Set down the Trident. Better yet, hurl it into your Master’s eyes, and come with us! My friends will teach me how to forge a new heart for you.”

The eerie mist swirled around Adagio, whose eyes looked vacantly into the distance. Behind her, Leviathan’s tentacles quivered and his eyes closed. Sunset and Aria looked at one another as they heard an echo of an agonized scream beyond the gate. At last, Adagio’s unhinged magenta gaze settled on Sunset, and her lips twisted in a cruel sneer. “Keep the shards, for all the good they’ll do you. The Master will give me a new heart after I am crowned Queen.”

Sunset prepared to press her debate, but Aria interrupted her. “As long as she’s like that, there’s no reasoning with her. My mother told me about something similar that happened to Adagio’s mother in the temple. The next time Adagio regains herself, we have to try to grab Apple Bloom and make a run for it. All eleven of us may not make it out of here even if we do flee. He Who Swims in Darkness is gathering power from our fear,” warned Aria.

To punctuate her point, Leviathan inhaled the purple mist through the veil again, and the inky cloud concealing his features became larger and sleeker. The flow of magical vapor caused Sunset’s conjured candles to spill some of their melted wax, and the glow from the Element of Redemption dimmed to a small degree.

By way of reply, Sunset upended the metal first aid box onto the cavern’s floor, and then stepped back. With a mighty overhand blow, Aria struck the dagger with Chainbreaker, causing an explosion of eldritch energy that tossed her to the ground. The impact rang throughout the spherical cave, just as Leviathan exhaled and distributed the will-sapping mist throughout the chamber. No trace remained of the dagger’s bronze blade or the heavily enchanted hilt. Only crimson gem fragments remained where the horrific weapon once lay.

Aria grunted and raised herself to a seated position. Chainbreaker’s pale glow illuminated the purple-tinted oval of her pained face. She scooted back towards Sunset’s candle while she desperately tried to break He Who Swims in Darkness’ hold over the princess. “Adagio, pick up the shards and go! Just like in my dream, he needs you much more than you need him. He can’t touch us! Stop listening to him and throw away that damned Trident!”

“I must satisfy our Master, Aria. You know that he is the true path to lead our people.” Adagio’s trancelike voice darkly captivated the companions, while she swept the Black Trident in a slow, sweeping gesture. “The mermares are the Master’s chosen, and he is our stern and distant father, who permits no other male to challenge him. The other races are crying children who would be lost beneath the waves and purposeless without the Empire. As Queen, it is my duty to guide, control and protect them all, and punish the faithless and those that violate the Master’s laws. Few must perish to ensure the Empire’s dominion over many!”

Discord weakly dragged Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie behind a cluster of stalagmites, carefully using his magic to levitate the candle representing Sunset’s ward against despair. The taper had been reduced to a third of its original height, and the gathering violet vapors portended nightmares and torment. He produced a rubber chicken from his jacket pocket, and gave it to Pinkie, who weakly smiled. Fluttershy wrapped both her arms around him and buried her face against his wounded chest.

Discord warned Sunset through gritted teeth. “Aria’s right, Baconhair! I’m hurt, I’m tired, and I can’t hold him back much longer. He’s getting stronger with each passing moment. If we’re going to run, now is the time,” His smirk faded, replaced by consternation.

Leviathan shifted his eerily perceptive violet gaze towards Sunset. “Adagio knows that I am her Master and is committed to what I require. But, at this juncture, you must learn that I am not an ungrateful liege. Once my power is restored, the Trident will be a puny gift compared to what I can bestow upon those who help me return.” His oily voice washed over Sunset, and tendrils of sickly vapor twirled around her body. “You have already done me a mighty favor by leading those who slayed Vecna’s Herald. Sunset, you spoiled the banshee’s plans and saved my future Queen and my own divinity. Don’t deny it: I sense the dark flame in your heart, even after you wielded a feather from the Sun Alicorn. The fruit from the Tree of Harmony you wear is powerful in light and in darkness. It suits your divided spirit quite well.”

“No, Sunset, don’t listen to him! He’s lying!” screamed Applejack. “He’s trying to do to you what he did to Adagio. We’re all dead if his voice gets into your head!”

The farmgirl’s accent combined with her terror produced a unique vocal timbre that rang in Sunset's ears, jolting the flame-haired girl back to the present. Sunset proudly tossed her hair and made a gesture that encompassed her rapidly weakening companions. “I have chosen my friends. The darkness you tempt me with does remain inside me, but I am stronger for having beaten it while standing with those I love!”

Adagio’s sarcasm helped Leviathan thicken the violet vapor throughout the cavern. “Oh goody, is it time for this ‘Magic of Friendship’ thing again! That worked so well in the gym last week, didn’t it? If you love them so much, then why not just lay down right here and die for them?” She pointed at the cave floor immediately in front of the pool.

“Adagio, don’t be so rash. Enthusiasm to serve me is commendable, but I count upon you to be a patient strategist. Perhaps you should heed your earlier advice to me. You did recommend that I make use of the materials before me,” rumbled the dark being.

Aria, seeing Sunset under mental assault from He Who Swims in Darkness, suddenly lost her temper. She sprang to her feet, spun Chainbreaker and charged Adagio, leaping over the crimson shards as she attacked. “She saved me, Adagio! She can save you once I get rid of the Trident!” Her purple eyes were fixed upon the dark weapons’ tines.

A burst of red lightning from the Black Trident caught Aria in the chest just as she was about to bring Chainbreaker crashing down onto the midnight-colored metal. Screaming in pain, Aria watched in disbelief as the lightning turned into liquid darkness, and it formed several bands that snugly confined her arms and legs. The bindings also encircled Chainbreaker, causing the weapon’s flanges to dig painfully into the redeemed Siren’s chest.

Leviathan drew his will-sapping mist away from Adagio, and focused all of his malevolent attention upon Sunset. “So, my two-legged mare, have you truly chosen your friends? What of your home? What of your magical talent? I know much of hunger, and am quickly learning much about you. After long years, your skill at the forge has given you a taste of the arcane once more, and you have proven yourself as a battle mage and combat leader. You must know that you will never, ever reach your true potential here in this world.”

“My potential and who I am has nothing to do with the world I’m in,” replied Sunset. Her voice wavered, and she glanced down at Aria struggling on the cave’s floor. “It has everything to do with the choices I make.” The trio of candles keeping the violet mist at bay rapidly burned down, and the green-blue light originating from her magical amulet flickered dangerously.

Bubbles gurgled through the veil between worlds as Leviathan roared with derisive laughter. “That was an excellent but futile attempt at a dramatic response. I surmise that for one so gifted in magic as you, removing that beautifully crafted amulet will feel like cutting off your own horn.” His eyes narrowed, and he pointed a tentacle at Sunset. “You know, I could crown two Queens tonight: The Aquastrian Queen Below and the Equestrian Queen Above. Let me show you who you could be, Sunset Shimmer.”

He Who Swims in Darkness reached up with his pointing tentacle, and pressed it against the veil once again, creating a ten-foot wide square of shadow. Images came to life on the darkly conjured display, showing a majestic figure standing on a sumptuous red and gold carpet. The alicorn flapped her light amber wings, while holding her muzzle high. Her long spiral horn, suffused with a potent magical aura, reached towards a vaulted marble ceiling. Upon the alicorn’s head rested an enormous obsidian crown, and an ostentatious obsidian necklace encircled her neck. Both royal devices were embedded with crimson, diamond-shaped jewels. In the image, the alicorn’s green-blue eyes haughtily scanned the crowd of ponies kneeling obediently and fearfully at her feet. Banners behind the illusory Sunset Shimmer proclaimed unquestioned dominance, with her cutie mark superimposed over the top of a black squid trailing ten tentacles.

“Yes! We would live and rule forever, Sunset!” Adagio’s magenta eyes blazed in the darkness, and she gestured towards her disheveled pack near the cage. “I read your notes, and I read your blackmail ledger. I even used the compact! This is everything you ever desired. You pine for your Canterlot. Indeed, you are desperate for it, as I am desperate for Aquastria.”

The blood drained from Sunset’s face, and the candles she had conjured with her confident magic consumed their fuel at an alarming rate. “No!” she cried, “That’s not who I am anymore!”

“Fight him, Sunset! Don’t believe his lies. You led me through the darkness to reach the light!” shouted Aria, struggling against the bands of midnight that encircled her body.

Rarity squeezed Sweetie Belle’s hand and forced her blue eyes open. Miraculously she kept her voice steady as she stared at the purple and white candle’s fickle flame. She called to Sunset. “Home isn’t a place, darling. It’s whom you care for.”

Leviathan’s dark voice interrogated Sunset. “Do you dare deny that you plotted to cast down Princess Celestia? Look around your own neck for the proof! Why would you go through the effort to create an item that possesses such a potent focus for dark magic if you didn’t desire to use it?”

Sunset attempted to reassure herself as a bead of sweat traced a path from her forehead, down her temple, to her chin. “There will always be good and evil, just as there is always tension between law and chaos—“

“Spare me the lecture on the origins of magic! You have yet to answer my question. Why make an item with such powerful darkness if you didn’t want to employ it? You’ve used so much light, Sunset. Give in to the shadow. Balance demands it.” Leviathan’s deep voice exuded both impatience and excitement as he interrupted Sunset.

Free of the dark being’s scrutiny for a moment, Adagio looked at the image of the dark alicorn, pursed her lips and thought, While an Empire Above and an Empire Below sounded wonderful at first, why is the Master looking to crown Sunset, too? Something isn’t right. His rage isn’t calculated, it’s too impatient, and almost frantic. Why must he insist on sacrifices? Now that Raven’s destroyed, I can use his True Name against him, but only once I have my immortality again, and I’m safely on the throne in Nautilus Hall.

“What do you know of balance, slimy?” Discord attempted to draw Leviathan’s attention, while both Pinkie and Fluttershy hid their faces. “I know that the party you bring with you wherever you go would crush any scale I could design. Besides, Sunset’s temper is uncontrollable and unpredictable. She’s not balanced at all, and she’s certainly not your type! For old time’s sake, let’s go find another world to terrorize!” He smiled weakly at He Who Swims in Darkness, and safeguarded Sunset’s tiny candle in a hurricane lamp he yanked free from Pinkie’s hair with an assist from his recovering magic.

“Kneel to me, and help Adagio with her sacrificial duties. That’s all I require to grant you youth, immortality and dominion over the third of Equus that is dry land.” Leviathan’s voice echoed inside Sunset’s skull. “I’ll even let you choose your sacrifice. For you, the heart of darkness, I only require one death. They all care for you in their own way. Dying for you will ensure a part of their soul is with you forever more.”

Sunset hooked her index finger around the chain holding the Element of Redemption around her neck. Her eyes stared blankly at the image of her flexing her wings and lording over the Canterlot throne room.

Discord struggled to his feet while carefully lowering Pinkie and Fluttershy to the stone floor. He snapped his fingers and abandoned his military costume for the mismatched suit he wore when he first came through the portal. His crimson eyes flickered furiously in the darkness as he pointed an accusing finger at Leviathan. “You lie! You always lie! I tell riddles, and you tell whoppers. There’s no possible way, even in my home realm, that I could turn her into an alicorn. That power is beyond any you could ever possess.” He turned his head towards Sunset, and a wave of chaotic magic burst from Discord’s hands and danced prismatically amongst the celetstite and pyrite crystals. “Fight him! Reach deep into those complex layers of your spirit and find the strength to push back.”

Dazzled briefly by Discord’s impassioned plea and accompanying light show, Sunset smiled sadly at the Spirit of Chaos, and then silently continued watching the images of herself as the unchallenged ruler of Equestria.

“Sunset Shimmer, remember that you were chosen to bear the Element of Redemption,” Aria furiously struggled against her arcane bonds and rolled to Sunset’s feet, “You’re too smart and too tough to fall for this. He’s just another flim-flam artist who wants payment before he lifts a tentacle. Sunset, remember who you’ve become! You saved me, you saved Sonata, and you’re humble enough to say that we are the ones that made the right choices when it was you that did all the hard work by showing us what we needed to see.” She gritted her teeth, and her piercing violet eyes mirrored the intensity in her voice. “If you choose to follow him here at the end, then you might as well kill me, because I couldn’t stand to see you fall to the shadow.”

Sunset gasped and looked down at Aria. Chainbreaker’s light shined into her green-blue eyes, which snapped into focus. She swept a stray lock of hair at her face, took a deep breath and telekinetically swept the tempting square of darkness away. Drops of midnight stained the nearby rocks.

Dropping to one knee and touching Aria's cheek, Sunset steeled her resolve and met Leviathan's gaze, her eyes filled with defiance and determination. “No! You will never be my Master. I will never serve you. You mistake memory and temptation for fact. Every filly wants to be a princess, and of course I wanted to fly by Celestia’s side. What young unicorn wouldn’t? But, Equestria has changed, and I have changed. You entice me using a version of myself that no longer exists. This is not who I am any more. I have stopped ambitiously seeking power for its own sake. My friends, both here and in Equestria, have taught me to leave that awful version of myself behind forever!” Sunset stood and brandished a purple alicorn feather, which was the last one in her bandolier. “Girls, it’s time to show this oversized squid the magic of friendship!”

Exerting enormous willpower, Rarity and Applejack struggled to their feet, using the cage’s bars as a ladder. Applejack picked up the protective candle, and half-carried Rarity over to where Rainbow Dash clutched items from Adagio’s pack. Cold sweat soaked through the Stetson’s brim while Applejack carefully set the tiny light source down on the ground. With difficulty, she propped up both Rarity and Rainbow Dash. The terrifying violet mist swirled around them as they stood and faced Sunset.

On the other side of the cavern, Discord took off his suit jacket, revealing the prism-and-rainbow T-shirt he had briefly worn during their dinner at the Apples’ farmhouse. He grunted and grimaced while assisting Fluttershy and Pinkie to their feet. “It’s showtime, girls! Sunset can’t be a one-woman band for this number.” Pinkie’s pin-straight hair hung limply around her shoulders, and Fluttershy’s pale yellow skin had taken on a sickly greenish tinge.

Sunset’s voice wavered as Leviathan’s dark magic assaulted her senses. She reached inside herself for the right words, but found only doubt and budding despair. In desperation, she lashed out blindly with familiar words. “Leviathan, together my friends and I create a power greater than you, greater than the Sirens and greater than the Trident Adagio holds. You will never control it, or us, because you don't possess the most powerful magic of all; the magic of friendship!”

Pale auras of multicolored light surrounded each of the six girls, as they levitated free of the cavern’s floor. Around Sunset’s neck, the Element of Redemption’s glow cycled through each of the colors of the rainbow, but its light struggled to overcome the violet fog that threatened to smother it. Motes of light appeared above Sunset’s head, and nearly coalesced into pony ears, as the amulet around her neck struggled to shift its color from violet to lavender and then to white.

Then, all at once, the arcane force collapsed under the weight of Leviathan’s evil presence. Twilight’s final feather rotted in Sunset’s hand, and all six young women suddenly fell to the ground. Jagged rocks cruelly scraped their arms and legs, and the magical candles next to Discord and Applejack burned out. With one exception, the only light in the spherical cave emanated from the triumphant violet eyes, framed by a cloud of darkness that stretched into a watery infinity.

Adagio and Leviathan laughed together, the musical trilling and the grotesque bubbles mixing together into a derisive symphony. Sunset’s purple and white candle continued burning, its fuel nearly exhausted. The violet mist amplified all feelings of failure, and the future Queen of Aquastria and her Master’s taunting laugh went on and on.

Sunset fell to her knees, her heart filling with horror as she was hit with the realization of the extent of their failure. Her former valor giving way to despair, she buried her face in her hands and wept despondently. “I’m so sorry, Twilight. I failed you. I failed my friends, doomed three girls and threatened two worlds.” Though her voice was soft, its contrast with the mocking laughter enabled it to be heard, while her sobs echoed throughout the chamber.

At last, Leviathan stopped his gurgle long enough to issue orders. “There you have it, Adagio. They will not join us, and their spell flickers and dies. Bring me one of the girls.”

“Yes, Master. At last, they are defeated.” Adagio grasped the Trident in both hands and circled around the prone, hopeless figures of Rarity, Applejack and Rainbow Dash to stand over Apple Bloom. Her footfalls carried throughout the chamber, forming a rhythm full of dark portents.

The anthropomorphic darkness approximated a smile. “Of course they now lie defeated and despairing. Shrieking Raven and so many others underestimated us, and now we are victorious. The pressure of water is a continually weighty influence, and so it is with the power I project. This power you will wield in my name. Water carves canyons and covers the world. It seeps everywhere, and I will control Aquastria and then all of Equus through you, Adagio. Become Queen. Kill the girl at your feet first, and then bring me the other two.”

“No! Take me instead!” Applejack struggled to her knees, and she clasped her empty hands in front of her. “Make her a clan chief, a princess or even a Siren, but she must live. You do that, and I’ll lay down without putting up a fight.”

Leviathan skeptically looked at Adagio. “I’m not convinced. The younger sister serves my needs better than the elder. This volunteer is pure of heart, and disgustingly honest, which turns my stomach. Furthermore, she is nearly too old to be useful.”

Adagio, with her coronation at hand, and her mind rapidly clearing, pressed her original argument. “Master, with all due respect, I will decide whom I will sacrifice. You insist on death, to which I have already objected. But, it is my duty, so I will execute it the way I see fit for the good of the Empire. Applejack bravely offers herself, so I will spare Apple Bloom’s life.” Adagio cut the bonds encircling Apple Bloom’s ankles with Sunset’s knife, and the Siren nodded solemnly. “Rise, little one. Make your farewells to your sister. Together, we will rule Aquastria!”

Apple Bloom, her scarlet hair filthy and matted from her time on the ground, lifted her tear-streaked face, and gasped at her sister’s haggard appearance. “No! I won’t say goodbye to you or my friends!”

Applejack staggered to her sister and helped her to her feet by wrapping her in a loving embrace. Kissing her cheek, she removed her trademark hat and placed it upon Apple Bloom’s head. “Be brave for Granny and Big Mac. Teach those damned fish a thing or two about being an Apple.” Applejack turned to Adagio and said defiantly. “You’re so eager to murder someone that we might as well get this over with.”

“Don’t do this, either of you!” Sunset stopped her sobs long enough to howl at Applejack and Adagio.

Applejack’s bravado evaporated when she looked at Sunset through Leviathan’s foul violet vapors. Wiping a tear from her eye, she sadly shook her head. “I told you that I’d do anything to save my sister, sugar cube. This is the top item on the ‘anything’ list. Find a way to stop that thing and bring Apple Bloom back to my brother.” Trembling, she turned and watched the Siren princess expectantly.

“Lie down over there, Applejack,” Adagio pointed to a flat rock immediately in front of the veil between worlds. Her voice suddenly shifted from commanding to regretful. “I promise that I’ll be as merciful as this weapon allows. Know that your selflessness saved your sister, and she will rule beneath the waves.” Applejack meekly obeyed. Apple Bloom, wearing Applejack’s hat, sniffled as she watched her sister prepare herself for the end.

Rarity’s shrill shout caused Adagio’s head to turn. “Stop! I will go in place of Sweetie Belle!" Rarity’s voice shook as the violet mist parted, permitting her to stand. "Sonata told us a terrible story about an empty bedroom. If I had to walk past that empty bedroom every day, knowing that my sister was gone when I could have done something, I would never forgive myself.” She gazed deep into her sister’s pale green eyes. “Darling, I have cared for you so long that the line between big sister and mother has become blurred. I will make sure you live long enough to avenge me.”

“Not you, too! You’re giving them both exactly what they want!” Aria shouted. “Sunset, do something, before they break any further!” Her words trailed into a scream of agony as the dark bindings around her crackled with crimson energy.

As she approached, Adagio roughly pushed Rarity back towards the cage. The fashionista whimpered as she crumpled awkwardly to the ground, almost disappearing beneath the foul vapors. Adding a cruel sneer, Adagio pointed the Trident threateningly. “Keep your distance! It’s not your turn, yet.”

Her magic exhausted, the candle on the cave floor at Sunset’s feet guttered and went out. Leviathan’s violet mist surrounded her, despair assaulted her mind, but a dim glow from the Element of Redemption illuminated her bloodshot, puffy eyes.

“Sunset, you know this better than all of us: It is always darkest before the dawn.” Discord’s voice, soft and tender, pierced the silence. He looked towards the exit, where a speck of pale blue light reflected off of a small cluster of celestite crystals. “Rekindle your hope, Element Bearer.”

Sunset stopped crying, and a tiny glow emerged from the potent arcane amulet and stabilized. Stubbornly, she made a desperate play for time. “Adagio, don’t do this! He needs to you to commit murder, not for Aquastria, but for himself! You have a choice, and there must be another way, no matter how much that creature tries to hide it from you. Come away with us, and find a way to make up for what you’ve done. For Celestia’s sake, don’t let that thing in your hand or that horrible monster determine your path. Choose your own destiny!”

The Black Trident was ready to strike, held in Adagio’s right hand. Red lightning danced ominously between the weapon’s tines. Despite her terror, Applejack kept her eyes fixed upon her sister, whose lower lip quivered as she bravely watched. Silently, Adagio patted the young girl’s head through the battered Stetson hat.

“I love you, big sister,” whispered Apple Bloom, as her tears dripped onto the gray rocks beneath her feet.

“Do it now, Your Highness! Become the Queen you are destined to be!” Leviathan’s inky cloud hungrily filled the veil between worlds. “At last, you must commit to truly being my servant!”

The hand holding the Trident started to shake, and the weapon’s crimson electricity flickered uncertainly. Adagio lifted Applejack’s hat from Apple Bloom’s head, gripping the brim in her left hand. Silently, she glanced down regretfully at Apple Bloom and Applejack in turn. Gritting her teeth, Adagio squinted her eyes and peered into the darkness to meet Leviathan’s malign violet gaze. She uncertainly raised the Trident once more, tensed her muscles and closed her eyes.

A metallic clang rang through the cavern as the Black Trident impacted not the soft flesh of Applejack, but the rusty tines of a pitchfork. Caught off guard by the sudden interference, Adagio lost her grip on the terrible artifact. Both pitchfork and Trident crashed against the cavern’s wall, where the weapon and the gardening tool both disappeared with a sharp bang. A pale blue light originating from the chamber’s entrance reduced the oppression of the surrounding gloom.

A confident female voice announced, “Adagio, for centuries, we’ve taken away the choices of others, and we’ve manipulated them to do what we wanted. Now it’s my turn to relieve you of the burden of a decision. You will not hurt my friends anymore!”

Leviathan’s violet eyes shifted away from Adagio and her prone sacrifice. He looked towards the source of the illumination, chuckled malevolently, and intoned, “I've been waiting for you, Sonata."

*****

Author's Note

I’ll keep this note brief, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t express my deep thanks to SerenaAveline for her support and exceptional suggestions to properly present Leviathan in his profound evil splendor. I feared that I had hit a writing wall with this update, and she seamlessly guided me around it. I’m also grateful that EstrellaEssentia returned from her jam-packed summer adventures long enough to take a look at the chapter and offer her encouragement.

Thanks so much for your continued, enduring and indefatigable support for this story. I look forward to reading your reactions and feedback from this update! Your collective kindness and boundless enthusiasm are the fuel that has (and will) push this story to its conclusion. I ask your patience during this next update cycle, as my summer obligations will be at their peak during July.

Happy Independence Day to those of you living in the United States! May you celebrate it safely, but with all of the parades, barbecues, fireworks and fun that this holiday deserves.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

The metallic echoes of the Black Trident's destruction rang through the mesmerizing mineral formations of Bridal Cave, leaving the observers in a stunned silence at the sudden disruption. Just as the atmosphere started to become oppressive, a gurgling chuckle resounded in everyone's ears as Leviathan’s bemused voice boomed throughout the cavern. “I’ve been waiting for you, Sonata.”

Sonata Dusk stood about twenty feet from the chamber’s entrance, surrounded by a sky-blue sphere of light four feet in diameter centered on her upper chest. Her blue streaked ponytail curled over her right shoulder, adding a splash of vibrancy to the ivory-colored shirt she had borrowed from the Carousel Boutique. Her lilac eyes fierce with conviction, Sonata lowered her right arm from its previous “follow-through” motion and pointed accusingly at Leviathan while brushing dirt from her left hand onto her black pants.

“ 'Waiting for me?' So ‘Great Betrayer’, exactly why is it that you have been waiting for me? Is it because Adagio is on the verge of seeing you for the deceiver you truly are? Is it because Aria now fights against you or because your words have no influence on the others? Or maybe it's because there is nothing you can do without us! It’s time to put an end to your lies and show us what you truly are and whom you hold captive!” Her voice rose and fell with the musical dynamics of a heroic theme as she took command of the stage and scene.

Adagio produced Sunset Shimmer’s butterfly knife and gripped it tightly while keeping the blade sheathed. The light emanating from Sonata reflected in her magenta eyes as she looked her fellow Siren up and down, her lips slowly twisting into a sardonic grin. “That’s a neat trick to bring your own flashlight with you. Perhaps that bump on your head has affected more than just your judgment! It’s certainly kept your cowardly tendencies in check. Aria refused me, and she will pay for that betrayal with her life. With that in mind, have you reconsidered my offer to serve me once more? I'm confident I can find a place for you on the palace staff,” she mocked.

“Sonata, you’ve always wanted to be a princess, and this is your chance! Adagio will sacrifice the blonde female, and then she will give my tiara to you as she is crowned Queen. Wouldn’t that be nice?” Leviathan’s voice had lost its gravelly edge, and a tentacle shielded his watchful violet eyes from Sonata’s magical light.

Adagio’s cruel sarcasm melted away, as she cautiously raised her index finger towards the dark being. “Master, I thought that Apple Bloom would be permitted to be my—“

The black tentacles flailed in fury. “Silence, Your Highness! Sonata’s arrival coupled with her disobedience changes everything. You failed to keep her faithful to me! We must remake our agreement.” The evil vapors retreated from the front of the cavern and concentrated around Applejack, Adagio and Apple Bloom.

Observing from the sidelines, Sunset Shimmer dried her tears on her dirty forearms and lifted her head as the pale blue glow approached. She heard Sonata softly humming a tune to herself, and the sphere of light surrounding her pulsed subtly in time to her song. Her heart fluttered, and He Who Swims in Darkness’ wall of despair eroded brick by mental brick. “Keep going, Sonata! Come closer to us so we can get Applejack and Apple Bloom to safety,” she softly encouraged.

“No, Sunset. Adagio must not be hurt until she sees her Master without his mask. Listen to his words carefully! He's truly scared of what I can reveal, so I won’t risk Adagio, Apple Bloom or Applejack by making a move too early. Don’t get me wrong, Sunset. Leviathan must be stopped, but this moment has been centuries in the making, so please let me play out this scene my way!” Sonata quietly but confidently insisted as she flipped her ponytail behind her in a familiar gesture.

Adagio glanced down at Apple Bloom, and then skeptically raised a perfectly-sculpted eyebrow as she addressed her Master. “Remake our agreement at this late moment?”

“If you wish to be Queen, stop your interminable delays! We should be conquering Aquastria by now!” The inky blob of darkness pressed itself close to the barrier, and the deep voice thundered with impatience. “Slay the sacrifice and roll her to me, or I may crown another and vent my divine displeasure upon you!”

Rarity gasped as she felt her blood turn to ice from Leviathan's words, but a glance at Sonata as she moved towards the center of the chamber renewed her hope. She slowly made a stealthy retreat from Adagio, gently nudging Rainbow Dash as she passed. The fashionista didn't dare interrupt Sonata, so she silently sat cross legged next to the cage, reaching inside in an attempt to rouse Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Settling to the ground, her body quivered with slightly diminished fear.

Standing at Sunset’s side, Sonata helped her to her feet with a warm smile as the light washed over them both, then turned and snapped at Leviathan, her eyes flashing dangerously. “There is no other potential queen, Betrayer!” She turned to Adagio, and softened her voice. “Your Highness, all three of us have been deceived for our entire lives. There’s no shame in being wrong, and it will all be clear once you’ve seen the truth. Sunset, through her magic and her necklace, showed me the way! You have a powerful sense of obligation to mermares and to Aquastria, but that nobility within you has been twisted to his will.”

Flashing her familiar crooked smile, Sonata modeled her homemade bracelet with the pink heart and jagged eighth note crafted from semiprecious stones and continued. “My twin brother Coral Aegis, who made this for me when I was chosen to be sacrificed, called that terrible creature we served ‘Great Betrayer.’ Adagio, you must know now that the beast before you does not protect the Empire. He lies and only serves himself through trickery and slavery!”

"My magic protects all of Aquastria, Adagio. The males and lesser races are so much happier without the burden of choice. You know this! My laws are stern but with good reason.” Leviathan’s violet gaze glanced at Sonata as she slowly advanced, but he continued to address Adagio. “Take the unicorn’s knife and give me what I desire. The human female is so close that I can almost reach her. The order I impose will make you powerful again, Adagio. Without me, chaos has reigned beneath the waves, and your people suffer.”

Before the dark being’s voice and his violet mist could reassert their control, Sonata removed her pack and produced the Aquastrian history tome. “Adagio, that’s not true! My twin brother, the one I tried to hide from you, created an age of togetherness and harmony in Aquastria that continues today. History names him ‘Liberator’, and he led the seaponies in a revolt against your mother. One of his goals was to find where we had been banished and return us to Aquastria!” She held opened the book to the two-paged picture of the Hall of Freedom. “See, they’re all making music together after the Betrayer’s stain was finally washed away.”

Adagio took a step away from Applejack, who remained too terrified to move, and squinted in an effort to view the details of the far-away illustration. She moved to the edge of the mind-clouding mist and mumbled dreamily, “Mermares, seaponies, narwhal and aqualions making music together? What would that sound like?”

“Sonata, my child, you have been misled. Coral Aegis desired power, just as Adagio’s mother and grandmother did. All beings crave the gifts I can provide. His choice to destroy my temple constituted a grave mistake, and his so-called harmonious age was only a myth.” As Leviathan’s voice flowed through the chamber like malevolent sludge, Sonata’s sphere of light slowly deflated, and Adagio returned to where Applejack lay on the sacrificial slab, fidgeting with the knife in her hand. “Does your book tell you about how Coral Aegis ruthlessly hunted down and killed my mermare priestesses so that I could no longer help the Empire? Did it mention how the lesser races consumed so much food that they weakened Aquastria? Remember that the victors get the opportunity to write history and would be eager to cover up your twin brother’s murderous crusade. The First Chancellor served me well, just not in my name.”

Seeing Sonata’s resolve waver, Discord slowly sat up and laboriously snapped his fingers. His tired, raspy voice echoed across the cavern. “Listen to me, Sonata! Remember what I told you in the boutique and remember your courage in making this journey. Don’t just tell us what you know, tell us what you believe!” He displayed a small piece of stained-glass portraying a light brown gargoyle with compassionate brown eyes. Pinkie and Fluttershy still clutched at Discord, but they opened their eyes and ceased their fearful trembling.

Sonata's eyebrows furrowed as she gave the Spirit of Chaos a slow nod, and berated Leviathan with renewed fervor. “I know my brother! Your servants couldn’t have destroyed the kindness he always gave to me, even when I acted selfishly. I feel in my heart that he would have given any creature the chance to choose his or her fate for themselves. He would have accepted their surrender. But, you do all you can to take those choices away from others. There’s no other explanation of why the royal guard or the priestesses fought to the death.” Sonata took another half-dozen steps towards Adagio, with the book still open. Her voice rose, with her lilac eyes passionately appealing to the conflicted Siren princess. “Come here, and let me show you the truth!”

“Come here, slay the girl and I will give you my Trident again along with all of the power of an Aquastrian Queen!” Leviathan offered, his deep voice rising and falling seductively. “Sonata doesn’t have the pedigree to rule. Her simplicity has always been endearing, but you know well that duty demands sacrifice. Her cowardice at the Crystal Glacier proves she can’t take on the burdens that you can. Come erase the awful effects inflicted upon you by the alicorns’ servants. Commit yourself to the Empire and to me once again!”

Standing on shaky legs, Sunset tugged her thin sweatshirt down over her hips and spread her arms wide. A dim green-blue glow surrounded the Element of Harmony as she passionately beseeched the wavering Siren princess. “It’s all about choices, Adagio! After a thousand years, the magic of friendship made it possible for you to decide for yourself how best to use your talents. Learn from my mistakes and take this one step at a time, Your Highness. The Trident is gone. Let’s start with putting away my knife, and then you can choose to help Applejack get up.”

The evil creature from beyond the veil continued the stalemate, and belched forth even more violet mist to blanket Applejack, Apple Bloom and Adagio, blocking their view of Sonata’s shrinking sphere of sky-blue light. “You have chosen, Adagio! You were chosen the moment you first drew water through your gills! Give me the power I need to help you smite your enemies.”

“No, Highness, don’t listen to him. He’s playing games!” Aria, her face illuminated by Chainbreaker’s white glow, struggled futilely against the bonds the Trident had placed around her body prior to the weapon’s unlikely destruction. “We have done many terrible things while our minds were clouded by the Master’s evil hunger, but we haven’t murdered! Sunset and Sonata are right. Why can’t you see?”

Adagio took another step away from Applejack and the gateway, earning a furious roar from Leviathan. She raised her eyebrow and skeptically asked, “Sonata, how did you change so suddenly? Not even two days ago, you tried to have me killed and steal my crown.”

“I may yet entertain that as a viable option for your ascendance, Sonata! Now, cease this disobedience, extinguish that infernal light and serve your Master!” Leviathan’s rage shook the cavern walls once again.

Sonata pointedly ignored Leviathan’s interruption. “In our anger, we both missed parts of what the other tried to say. You wanted my help against Raven, didn’t you?”

“Yes, I did,” said Adagio, nodding once.

“Well, my new friends must have destroyed her, and you now have other ways to return home that don’t involve him. What I’ve always wanted is for you and me to be equals. I don’t need to be a princess. I didn’t want to paint all of those dreary landscapes, but I did want you to be my friend.” Sonata’s sphere of light began to expand again, pushing away the violet mist. “The magic of Sunset’s necklace is powerful, and it showed me that all of the Master’s gifts are poison. I saw a world where I had murdered you, sacrificed those three girls and finally become Leviathan’s princess here in this world. His crown on my head would have ultimately driven me insane. With him, duty is not the two-way relationship you idealize. The Betrayer demands more and more until suddenly, the ruler becomes a shackled servant, and it all starts with a single death!”

Adagio’s mouth fell open, and she pressed her hand against her heaving chest. Her heart racing, she wiped a tear from her eye and silently stepped backwards towards Applejack, slowly shaking her head.

“That’s it, Your Highness. I can make that fear of mortality go away forever.” Leviathan’s tentacles rippled hypnotically, and his sonorous voice seemed to be an irresistible force. “Don’t believe the words of a stained peasant whose actions have forever befouled her purity.”

All of those who had recovered their faculties gasped at He Who Swims in Darkness’ vile, personal insult. Sonata’s temper flared, and the radiant sphere surrounding her flickered with eldritch energy. “You overplay your hand, monster!” she shouted. Pointing a blue-tinted finger at her former Master, her words formed a staccato drumbeat that marshalled her courage. “You speak of purity, when you order your monarchs to commit murder! True, I indulged my own lust and reveled in fleeting pleasures in order to feed the three of us in this world, but I am now working to clean that stain on my spirit.” She turned to Adagio and the anger fled Sonata’s voice. “I must show you what I have learned. Your Highness, in all the ways that value is measured in the Empire, my family and I were worthless. You were our general. Think of this like the battle it is! Why would Leviathan order Queen Blinding Dazzle to take me away from Coral Symphony?”

Adagio's brow furrowed as she considered Sonata's words, understanding beginning to light her face in the darkness. Suddenly, her eyes widened and she gasped as a revelation popped into her head. “The first rule of inter-clan warfare is to deprive your enemy of her greatest strength.” She staggered and nearly fell, whispering a long string of human obscenities. “Mother had the priestesses seize every set of twins because of the prophecy, but you and your brother were initially overlooked…” she trailed off.

“Silence!” Leviathan roared, his attempts at guile at an end, and he focused his piercing violet eyes on Adagio, thus willing every wisp of vapor in the chamber to surround the Siren princess. Adagio staggered and wrapped her arms around herself while using a stalactite to keep herself from falling over.

The air surrounding Sonata crackled with benevolent energy. She inhaled deeply, and spoke confidently, using the tone she normally reserved for stage monologues. “Prophecies are never true on their face, and the power of legend and myth is inspiration. But, the story of the One Who Guides the Waves gave the seaponies and merstallions hope as it was passed from one to another in furtive whispers. Coral Aegis and I were special through our sibling love for one another, and I’m proud that he used my fall into darkness to inspire all of Aquastria to end the worship of the Great Betrayer! I will show you, Adagio! I will show everyone the truth!”

Goosebumps rose on Sunset’s skin, as the magical battle between Sonata and her former Master escalated. Her green-blue eyes were wide with wonder as she watched the blue sphere of light expand from Sonata and push Leviathan’s violet mist back towards the watery gateway.

Sonata raised her voice in the familiar tune that she, Adagio and Aria sang to one another during their banishment to keep their hunger and desperation at bay. She changed the key, the tempo and the lyrics, transforming it into a vibrant song of victory:

Lavenders blue, dilly dilly
Lavenders green
My brother dear, dilly dilly
At last it is clear
You were to fight,
While I would bring light!

Magic exploded forth from Sonata and the radiant sphere emanating from her encompassed the entire cavern. Adagio, stunned by the sudden brilliance, fell awkwardly and landed on her rear end. Leviathan pushed back with all of his dark might against his former slave’s song, his tendrils of darkness threatening to pierce the sky blue curve as it expanded towards the veil between worlds. Sonata’s fuzzy blue pony ears winked into existence atop her head, her delicate lilac-colored fins spread out behind her, and her blue streaked ponytail lengthened. Triumphantly, she composed another new verse of her favorite song:

You freed us all, dilly dilly
While I was in thrall
Through the Sunset, dilly dilly
I saw the light
No time for regret
Now my turn to fight

Sonata’s song threatened to burst through the gateway to reach the evil being, but the Great Betrayer counterattacked with a discordant roar that caused the sky-blue radiance to quiver and recede slightly. Adagio, at the focal point of the sonic battle, covered her ears and screamed in pain. At the sphere’s core, Sonata’s boots rose from the cave floor and she levitated into the air, hovering over the discarded shards of Adagio’s heart-pendant. The light surrounding her became brighter and wrapped her like a cocoon, but try as she might, Sonata couldn’t quite reach Leviathan with her song.

Aria felt herself being torn in two. A part of her called out to the evil being writhing in the darkness, but most of her heart ached to help Sonata in her fierce battle against her former Master. Still bound by the Trident’s power, Chainbreaker’s flanges continued to dig painfully into Aria’s chest, but her true pain existed deep within her spirit. The veil between worlds seemed stretched to the breaking point, and her heart beat a racing counter-rhythm to the magical mace’s pulses. Tilting her chin defiantly towards Sonata, she struggled to free herself against the weakening bands of darkness wrapped around her form. Aria examined the magically glimmering Aquastrian coral and observed the sparkling light from the broken chain links drawing itself into the star of her name-sigil on Chainbreaker’s head. She unclenched her fists, and noticed that her fingernails had made tiny crescent-moon wounds in her palms.

Aria, with a sense of purpose that came from deep within her soul, shouted, “Sonata, take my magic and fight! Become who you were destined to be!”

Aria sang a powerful fortissimo note that complemented Sonata’s melody. Somehow leveraging the struggle’s overwhelming arcane ambience, she reached to the core of her being and ripped all remaining magic from deep within her and hurled it away. Purple light streamed from her eyes and her mouth, forming a bar of eldritch radiance that shot straight for Sonata. When the magical bolt left Aria’s body, the violet glow in her eyes winked out, while the shock caused her to tremble and breathe heavily. Reacting to Aria’s selfless gift, the glowing crimson shards of Adagio’s heart-pendant levitated into the air, and the two light sources converged on the center of the radiant sphere.

“Noooo!” screamed Leviathan. Howls of agony echoed from beyond the gate as he somehow reached his tentacle through the barrier, where it transformed into a black, five-fingered hand on the end of an impossibly long arm. The suckers on the dark limb’s fingertips reached hungrily for Applejack, who still lay on the stone slab, enthralled by Sonata’s awakening.

Her green-blue eyes widening with terror, Sunset saw Leviathan make his desperate grab towards the unsuspecting farmgirl. With uncanny dexterity and all the strength she could muster, she silently reached behind her bandolier’s sash. In one smooth motion, Sunset drew and threw the Equestrian silver dagger at the invading limb, steadying its flight with a hastily cast telekinesis spell. The powerful magic dweomer pierced Leviathan’s palm, and the dark being screamed in pain. Drops of midnight blood fell to the cavern floor, burning new holes into the rock as the hand retreated beyond the veil and became a tentacle once again.

“Sweet Celestia, she’s so beautiful!” exclaimed Sunset as the magical forces surrounding Sonata exploded into benevolent brilliance. She shielded her eyes and beheld the graceful figure at the center of the nimbus as the light slowly dimmed to a pale, serene blue that brought daylight to every recess of the dark cavern. Sonata gestured to Adagio with both arms as her song concluded:

It’s now your choice, dilly dilly.
As shown by my voice
Cast off your chains, dilly dilly
The darkness won’t reign
Truth shines in the sun,
Our light, it has won!

Sonata beamed at Sunset, her victorious smile reflected radiantly by the passion in her eyes. As the light dimmed to the point where Sonata’s features were visible, Sunset gasped at the awe-inspiring feminine beauty of the being floating above her. Sonata’s fins, while still a hue of lilac that matched her eyes, had transformed into faerie-like butterfly wings. Her fuzzy pony ears remained in place atop her head, but the darker streaks in her knee-length blue ponytail had deepened to a purple hue, matching Aria’s skin tone. Between Sonata’s collarbones, replacing the burn mark made by the Element of Redemption, a circular blue gem emitted a sky-blue glow from its numerous facets that coalesced into a radiant sphere. The light engendered feelings of courage and inspiration wherever it shined.

The Great Betrayer shrieked with rage, but the cacophony never reached into the bubble of light, where tranquility and silence reigned. Sonata hummed softly as her friends, now free of Leviathan’s terrible aura of fear, stood and marveled at her transformation.

“Who are you, Sonata?” Sunset asked with wonder, “What are you?”

Discord’s magic flashed, and his mismatched suit morphed into the canary-yellow doctor’s scrubs he had used to fool the security guards at Zodiac University Hospital. As his lapel pin orbited his head, the Spirit of Chaos walked over to Sunset Shimmer and handed her a pair of enormous pink balloons. “Why, it’s a girl, of course! Two girls: One human and one, well, I’ll let Sonata explain later. Congratulations!” He handed Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, who were rapidly recovering from their extended fright, bubble gum cigars from his outfit’s breast pocket.

Sonata’s laughter trilled, and one of her eyes closed in a conspiratorial wink as her boots softly touched the ground once more. “Discord, I’ll do my best to tell everyone what I know in a little bit, but you would do a better job. In the meantime, Sunset, Aria and I still have some work to do.”

“No, we all have work to do.!” Applejack stood and spat on the cave floor near the watery gate where Leviathan raged impotently. She drew her leg back, intending to drive the point of her boot into Adagio’s ribs.

Aria’s sharp order halted the attack before it began. “Don’t, Applejack!” The bonds holding Chainbreaker to her chest dissolved and Aria stood, flexing her aching muscles. “Let Sonata and Sunset finish this their way. After all, we’d all be dead if it weren’t for them!”

Applejack looked down at Adagio with disdain, then nodded at Aria and rushed to embrace her sister. Adagio, her magenta eyes wide with awe, tried and failed to look away from Sonata’s radiant form as she approached. Silently, the Siren princess scooted on her bottom towards the veil between worlds, retreating from her conqueror.

Sonata shook her head and extended her hand. “Dagi, it’s time to show you what you narrowly avoided.” She helped Adagio to her feet, gripped her by the shoulders and turned them both towards Leviathan, who futilely hurled himself against Sonata’s invading sphere of light.

“Sonata, I never knew you had this power within you…” Adagio trailed off as her yellow-tinted fingertips brushed tenderly against Sonata’s now-healed temple.

Smiling kindly at her former liege, Sonata gently removed Adagio’s hand from her face. “I didn’t either until just a few hours ago, but I like the feeling of bringing people together much more than tearing them apart. But, I promised that I’d show you the truth, and I will. Princess Adagio Dazzle, behold the Great Betrayer as he truly is!” Sonata inhaled and let loose a sweeping major-key aria in an unfamiliar language. The beautiful song brought tears of joy to Adagio’s eyes while the others listened silently to the brief, transcendent performance.

Aided by the force of her music, Sonata’s magical luminance pierced the veil between worlds and dispelled the inky black cloud concealing Leviathan’s features. The sky-blue light revealed a hideous black squid with ten desiccated, cracked tentacles. In the creature’s central body, two large purple eyes furtively looked from side to side in their emaciated sockets, and rotting flesh hung loosely from each long tentacle. Scores of ghostly mermares and merstallions, each of which glowed dimly, were shackled to the monster’s central body by black cords of darkness resembling chains. Each chain ended in an ornate jeweled collar fastened tightly around each aquatic creature’s throat. One lonely cord trailed off into the watery distance. Nearly crushed between Leviathan’s horrific head and his topmost right tentacle, a terrified mermare with silver scales, crimson fins and golden eyes screamed in pain. As the spasm of agony subsided, the mermare gazed upon Adagio with mingled recognition and hope.

“Mother! Your crown is a collar!” shouted Adagio. Aria and Sonata grabbed her to keep her from fainting, and also to prevent her from running through the barrier. Adagio briefly struggled against Aria’s strong grip and then buried her face in her hands, sobbing woefully.

Sonata lifted Adagio’s tear-streaked face with her fingers. “Do you see him for who he is now? He’s starving, Adagio. He needed sacrifices to feed his powers, and he’s been living off their souls and the souls of the Queens who shackled themselves to him through murder. He would have done it to you, and he would have done it to me, if we had let him.” She dropped her hands and held Adagio by her shoulders once again. Conviction and relief animated her voice as Sonata gazed deep into Adagio’s eyes. “Thank goodness that the amulet Sunset forged showed me that awful vision before it was too late! When I put together the truth from my vision and the facts in the Aquastrian book, I couldn’t let you, or any other mermare, suffer the same fate. Aria's mother somehow saw the truth and switched sides at the last moment, sacrificing herself to prevent the death of hundreds. My brother killed your mother and destroyed the temple to free the slaves and give Aquastria a new beginning! The Betrayer wants to dominate, control and channel all life under the sea, but he can't do it without the Imperial slave society. We almost let it start all over again!”

“And now, you must choose.” Sunset came forward, and stood with arms akimbo between Adagio and Leviathan. Authoritative and alluring, despite the dirt encrusting her face, she brushed a lock of flamelike hair from her cheek as she explained. “Sonata and Aria have made their own difficult journeys, and are changed forever. You must decide how best to serve your people. Either return to that thing’s hideous embrace, or come away with us to start your own road to redemption. I see no other paths.”

Adagio dropped to her knees in front of Sunset, clasping her hands in front of her. “Thank you for sparing my life to give me this choice. I know that I would not have done the same, and that truth torments me.” Her pleading magenta eyes searched Aria and Sonata’s faces for an answer. “How do I make it right? What I’ve done is unforgivable! I’ve failed you. I've failed my people, and I've let them be decieved. I decieved them! Nata, your father and brother were right. How could I not see it?”

Sonata put an arm around Aria, and together they helped Adagio to her feet and encircled the former princess in a triangular embrace. “Sunset, I have an idea. There may be another way, but we need to be sure. Could you please give us a moment?” Adagio whispered something into Sonata’s ear, and Sonata gestured towards the cage with her chin. “The keys to the cage are in Adagio’s vest pocket. Could you please free Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo?”

"I'm on it," Sunset replied. She jogged over to where Adagio had discarded her outer garment, dug out a keychain fashioned from an old set of military identification discs and tossed them to Rarity. The fashionista opened the cage, crawled inside and started untying the knots binding Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Both younger girls tearfully expressed their gratitude.

Slowly turning back towards the Sirens' huddle, Sunset marveled in the enormity of the situation taking place. Leviathan, his gluttonous evil exposed and vile visage unveiled, had stopped hurling himself against the barrier. His sickly violet eyes glanced into the infinity behind him, and he quaked with the same abject terror he had inflicted on the others. An ominous green star appeared in the watery expanse behind him and a small tremor rippled through the cavern. Discord, once again clad in his outlandish mix of stripes, plaid and paisley, danced an impromptu jig with an effervescent Pinkie. Her curls had completely recovered, and she squealed with delight as she took in every detail of Sonata's transformation and the beauty of the glimmering cave. Fluttershy blushed and shyly brushed a lock of long, pink hair out of her face as Discord took her hand in an effort to assist her to her feet.

“Sunset, we have come to a decision,” said Sonata gravely, as Adagio and Aria gazed upon her admiringly. “We don't have much time, though. Discord, I think you're the best suited to explain what happened to us. I'm still fighting Leviathan even now, and my explanation would be, um, too lyrical or too flowery.” She turned back towards the barrier and sang a brief, wordless tune that reinforced her influence beyond the veil.

Rarity backed out of the cage and grinned at Sonata while admiring her appearance. “Darling, you were ready for the Canterlot runway a few days ago. Now, your beauty defies any appropriate superlative!”

“Forget what she looks like, did you see her throw that pitchfork and then put that nasty squid in his place? It was beyond awesome. It was legendary!” Rainbow Dash interrupted her effusive praise and sheepishly bit her lip when she realized that she had been tightly gripping one of Adagio's bedsheet murals.

Discord held up both his hands and requested silence. He looked over the top of his wire-rimmed spectacles to address the group. “You did save us all, Sonata, so brevity is what you'll receive.” He gestured to her with a sweeping wave of his right arm. “She is no longer a Siren. While Sonata and her twin brother always did possess unique potential and hidden abilities, the singular combination of Leviathan's dark gifts, Aria sacrificing her innate magic, Adagio's shards, Sunset's Element of Harmony and her own bravery has made her anew. Sonata Dusk is now a Muse, which is a long-extinct type of being that is a positive force of inspiration and courage.” He added a sardonic grin. “Such artistic flair is related to my chaotic magic, but is distinctly different from my brand of arcana.”

Tossing her ponytail with self-conscious embarrassment, Sonata's breezy affability briefly replaced the new Muse's powerful stage presence. “I feel the new magic, Discord, but this isn't about me. Aria gave me a great gift, and I'm sad that she felt like she needed to do that.”

“I did too need to do that, because the Betrayer was about to crush you with his counterattack and steal Applejack! I have no regrets, and I can easily explain. I gave up my remaining magic in all its forms and gave it to Sonata. I am now a young human woman, and I will age and die as I should have centuries ago.” She arched a purple eyebrow at Pinkie and smiled. “I'm back on the clock, and I will make my remaining time count. I know that I already have.”

Applejack pursed her lips and glared at Adagio. “What about her? Father Scorpan would tell me that revenge is immoral, but I'm not inclined to turn the other cheek right now.”

“Big sis, don't be too hard on her. Did Granny punish you for tearing up all those apple saplings after you took the tractor to do some work without permission a couple of years ago? You thought you were doing the right thing, when instead it was all wrong!” Apple Bloom returned her sister's hat. “She did a lot of bad things, but we need to see how she wants to make it right.”

Adagio removed her tiara and handed it to Apple Bloom. “Well said, little one, and thank you for your understanding. Accept this gift as an apology, and as a remembrance of your leadership and courage, but please have it magically cleansed before you wear it. I will make amends in a different way, and I will rid Aquastria of Leviathan forever.” She looked at Sonata, and smiled deferentially. “Are you ready, Your Radiance?”

“I appreciate the gesture, but I need no title,” said Sonata, wagging her index finger at Adagio in a gentle rebuke. Adagio sheepishly smiled, and then handed Sonata the knife she had stolen from Sunset’s apartment. Sonata pocketed the weapon, turned to Sunset and continued. “What we are about to do is odd but necessary. We need to properly say farewell, and we will use our song to begin Adagio's atonement. Please stand back, but prepare our friends to tap into their magic.”

Adagio curtsied respectfully to Sunset, and a mischievous glint entered her eyes. “If my plan succeeds, we may yet encounter one another again in very different roles. Please recover the belongings I took from your apartment from my pack. Sunset, I thank you for your service to Aquastria and for redeeming three wretched, defeated Sirens. Together, we have devised a plan that will satisfy my sense of duty and keep Aquastria and all its citizens safe from the Great Betrayer forever.”

“Come, Adagio. Your destiny and Leviathan won't wait any longer.” Sonata beckoned and nervously glanced over her shoulder at the hideous squid, the tormented souls and the ominous green star lighting the astral infinity.

Discord rang a large brass gong with a plastic replica of Chainbreaker. He wore a red military-style baseball cap with golden oak leaves and acorns on the brim with the words “Damage Control Officer” emblazoned its face. He cried, "Don't kill Leviathan, especially with him approaching! There's a very real chance we'd have to fight the banshee all over again if we do!"

Sunset cocked her head in confusion, while Sonata and Adagio gravely nodded at the Spirit of Chaos. The trio faced Leviathan, with Sonata leading them. Her butterfly wings spread out behind her and the crystal in her chest illuminated the gateway. Aria stood to Sonata's right and Adagio to her left. The Muse sang a single note to harmonize the trio, and they began a sweet, yet sad song, dancing and swaying in three-quarter time. Sonata's bright soprano led their melody:

So one final time, sing we Sirens as three
After one thousand years, separate souls we must be
A princess, a peasant and a loyal guard
Forced to serve evil, our souls they are marred

You emerged from the darkness to show us the way
Long trapped within midnight, you dawned our new day
A leader, a hero, a friend, you're all three
Element Bearer, we're grateful to thee.

After the first verse, yellow-tinted mermare ears appeared on top of Adagio’s head and delicate lavender fins spread out like wings behind her back. Her thick orange curls spilled even further down her back, covering her hips. After the second verse concluded, she stepped forward and sang in her commanding mezzo-soprano while Aria and Sonata harmonized in the background:

An Aquastrian monarch, I never will be
But a much greater duty is intended for me
I'll atone for my crimes, give heroes my aid
Steadfastly stand guard until foul darkness fades.

Adagio returned to her place next to Sonata, while the trio hummed a transition. Singing for the first time without the benefit of magic, Aria smoothed her torn, clinging bodysuit. As she stepped ahead to take the lead, she flipped her long pigtails, and raised her rich alto voice to take over the melody:

Songs of grand battles are all that I knew
Now standing victorious, faithful and true
Freely I've chosen a brief mortal life
Every day's brighter through my sacrifice.

Looking past Sonata, Aria winked at Adagio, and the pair resumed their wordless background harmony. Her faerie wings flapping lazily, Sonata lifted herself into the air in the center of the trio. Running her ponytail through her fingers, she started her verse a full octave above Aria, with her soprano creating a soaring melody:

I couldn’t see all this love and its might
No need to despair, its light shines so bright
Mistakes I have made, so much to make right
My songs will unite and no longer bring strife.

Concluding her solo, the Muse slowly glided to the ground and placed each of her hands on the small of Adagio and Aria’s backs. The trio harmonized their voices in a finale that perfectly blended triumph and farewell:

So one final time, sing we Sirens as three
After one thousand years, separate souls we must be
We'll share our new stories, and hope we transcend
Forever closer than sisters, lovers or friends.

Sonata, Adagio and Aria held the last note, until their lungs demanded they slowly release it. The former Sirens embraced one another, forming a small circle while Leviathan raged futilely in the background. Unconsciously, Sunset clasped her hands in front of her chest, taking in the singular beauty of the Sirens’ final song.

Adagio, tears streaming down her face, wiped her eyes and squeezed Sonata and Aria's hands. "My duty is clear. For the first time in my life, it's as transparent as tropical water."

Tears rolled down Aria's normally stern face. She kissed Adagio on the cheek and handed her Chainbreaker. The magical mace shone brightly in Adagio's hands, and the weapon's warning tone trilled musically with the same beat as the song the trio had just concluded.

"What the hell are you doing, Aria?" Rainbow Dash sprinted towards the gateway, but suddenly stopped short when a gentle hand brushed against her shoulder.

Fluttershy shook her head at her brash friend. Tears welling in her eyes, she softly advised Rainbow Dash. "Chainbreaker never truly belonged to us. Let the three of them finish this their way."

Sonata tightly embraced Adagio, whispered into her ear, and kissed her on the opposite cheek. Weeping shamelessly, the Muse added a last benediction. "When our journeys are done, together we will paint a mural of our memories that spreads across the sky! Go, Adagio. At last, speak the words that have always been on the tip of your tongue!"

Adagio nodded and turned towards Leviathan. In the light emanating from the Muse, the former princess brandished Chainbreaker and regally intoned, "N'astir'h Akbar Beh'lian Soulbinder! I confine you to an unbreakable Astral Prison until such time as you starve into oblivion!"

Upon hearing his True Name, Leviathan froze in mid-flail, powerless to resist Adagio. A metallic black box artfully chased with a silvery metal appeared with its lid open, in front of the horrific being. He Who Swims in Darkness shouted in futile defiance as his dark presence began streaming into the unique prison.

Striding boldly through the watery veil between worlds, Adagio attacked the dark cords spreading from Leviathan even as her physical form rippled. Sometimes Chainbreaker, held in human hands, flashed in a circle, and without rhyme or reason, the magical mace was suddenly clutched in a pair of fins. Adagio alternated from mermare to human, and occasionally parted the dark chains as a hybrid of the two, possessing a fishlike tail paired with a human upper half. Her pony ears on display and her magically-lengthened hair fluttering behind her, she rhythmically twirled the mace and parted each of the bonds that provided Leviathan with nourishment and magical power. As the mermares separated from the Great Betrayer, they nodded or bowed respectfully to Adagio before dissipating to face their individual judgments.

For the first time in centuries, Adagio lifted her enthralling mezzo-soprano in an uplifting song of victory. Fragments of the dark chains imprisoning the Aquastrian queens entered Chainbreaker's radiant aura, and their black metal transmuted into a crystalline white substance that resembled cooled star iron. The broken links orbited Adagio's ever-changing features while she used the magical mace to free her ancestors. The metallic pieces fused into a scintillating crown, where a tiny kite shield nestled within the shattered bonds to form a device that signified the duties that she had eagerly accepted.

Leviathan howled impotently, powerless against the use of his True Name, and deprived of his magical sustenance. Adagio, adding a powerful flip of her mermare form's tail, shattered the last lingering chain and examined her handiwork, while the Great Betrayer's form dissolved and continued to fill the trans-dimensional cage. She looked worriedly at the emerald brilliance in the darkness as a pair of crimson fins suddenly enveloped her in an awkward hug.

“My daughter, you've done it! You've freed us!” For the first time since Adagio was a foal, mother embraced daughter. “Words cannot express how you have lifted my spirit! This is a victory worth a millennium of pain, and to see you wearing a crown you have earned fills me with pride that I never imagined possible.”

Adagio couldn't remember ever seeing her mother smile without malice or machinations. Words initially failing her, she pressed her muzzle against Blinding Dazzle's cheek. Her magenta eyes looked deep into her mother's ghostly golden gaze. “Thank you, Mother! Your theft of the True Name made the final blow possible, so there is no need to suffer alone. Stand guard with me through the decades and centuries to come, as I have so much to tell you!”

“I remember Sonata Dusk and Aria Blaze well, and I wish I could ease the burden of your duty.” The former Queen's gaze flicked to the approaching green malevolence with sadness and regret. “But, this responsibility is yours alone, Guardian. I must not be here when the Death Lord arrives. I am beyond forgiveness and I must face judgment for what I have done. He will chain my soul once more, if I am present when he arrives.”

Adagio’s body rippled and she became human once more. She gestured with her free hand and beseeched her mother. “I have Chainbreaker! We can fight—”

“No, Adagio. The two-legged air breathers must use their Equestrian magic to seal the rift and escape.” Blinding Dazzle interrupted her daughter, smiling sadly. “Do not let Vecna steal your triumph from you. Daughter, in this moment, you have given me the one thing I never had, even when I sat upon the throne in Nautilus Hall: Hope. One day, I hope to find my way back to you.”

Adagio stroked her mother's silver-scaled cheek with her hand as a pair of tears spilled forth. “Mother, we have an eternity.”

Transforming into a luminescent vapor, Blinding Dazzle 's spirit surrendered itself to face judgment. The dimly glowing being circled Adagio once, and vanished. Before she could weep, the cavern and the alternate dimension connected to it rumbled ominously. The sickly green glow started to push against Sonata's sky blue radiance.

At Adagio's feet, Leviathan's divine essence had been locked into a black metallic box secured with two crisscrossed white star iron chains fastened by an impossibly complicated arcane lock. Two straps, perfectly sized for Adagio's back or barrel, trailed from the container.

“Whale spit!” cursed Adagio. “That magic feels like Raven, but much stronger. That necromantic energy must be Vecna. I have to protect Aquastria from him!” Her eyes widened in fear and she grunted as she shouldered her heavy burden and raised Chainbreaker to a defensive position.

Adagio's terrified voice broke the trance that held all those in the cavern spellbound. Sunset beckoned with both hands, and Pinkie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Rarity ran to her and the six girls joined hands. As they did, all six sprouted fuzzy pony ears, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash's feathery wings winked into existence and their hair magically doubled in length.

Rarity looked back and forth between Sunset and Applejack, and grinned broadly. Squeezing both their hands, she squealed, “Darling, I'm so happy that I don't even need to sing to reach my part of the Power of Harmony!”

Throwing enormous bulbs of garlic through the gate, Discord displayed a large wall clock that dangled around his neck on an obnoxiously large gold chain. “Hurry up! I do not want to have an intimate chat with Mister One -Eye-One-Hand.”

“It's time, Sunset,” Sonata turned her head and nodded. “When I changed, a giant crystal tree told me to tell you to ‘believe in your friends to close what was forced open.’ I hope you know what that means!” The Muse shrugged her shoulders, and her eyes glittered playfully despite the approaching danger.

A male voice, quavering with emotion plaintively cried, “Wait one moment! Please!” A gray merstallion spirit with sad lilac eyes brushed past Adagio and pressed against the gate.

“Daddy, we won!” Sonata abandoned her song and sprinted for the veil. She sniffed loudly and her voice wavered, sounding like a little girl instead of a victorious, thousand-year-old being. “Coral Aegis and I rescued you, but it took way too long. I wish we could have won sooner, so we all could have been together again. I've missed you so much, and I’m so happy that my new friends forced me to remember how much you and Mama and Coral Aegis loved me.” Fresh tears ran down the Muse's face as she glanced back towards the group of young women holding hands.

A distant whisper echoed ominously. “I sense Leviathan's dark divinity. It is vulnerable and starving. Give it to me, or suffer wrath and torment that will last an eternity.”

Sonata’s father swam as close as he could to the gateway, and he smiled joyfully at his transformed daughter despite the approaching danger. “I was enslaved by the Queen's magic, but I'm now free thanks to you and your friends. There is no time, but at least I got to see you one last time. I am so proud of you and your brother. One cast off the Imperial chains and the other destroyed them forever. But, I must go to eternity at last, Sonata. So many centuries of agony were worth this moment to see you wrapped in glory! I love you very much.” Dusky Defense's glowing form lost its stability and his features started to dissipate.

Sonata sniffed back more tears. “I love you too, Daddy. Tell Mama and Coral Aegis that I miss them and love them.”

“They heard everything, Sonata. They are right here to greet me,” he gestured to the invisible expanse with his fin, “Be good and be brave...” Dusky Defense evaporated into a glowing vapor that promptly disappeared.

An alarm clock made from a frowning plastic skull rang loudly, intentionally disrupting the emotionally-charged silence. Discord snapped his fingers and the clock transformed into a conductor’s baton, and he suddenly wore an outrageous orange tuxedo with a ruffled shirt with a plaid marching band hat that towered two feet above his head. “Time’s up!”

“Is that really necessary?” Rarity asked, her voice dripping with annoyance as she wiped a tear away from the corner of her eye. “You’re spoiling the beauty of this moment with your tacky props and that horrifically garish outfit!”

Applejack frowned at the watery gateway and the skeletal figure that had started to coalesce in the green light that now dominated the veil between worlds. “Glad to hear you’re back to normal, sugar cube. Rarity, that critter’s already ruined your precious moment, so let’s do what we need to do and get out of here!” She donned her trademark hat after accepting it from Apple Bloom’s outstretched hands.

The horrifying figure continued to take shape into a robe-clad skeleton with only one hand. Vecna’s one-eyed gaze illuminated the box on Adagio’s back. “Give me your burden, Guardian. You didn’t slay my devoted servant. There is no need for you to become my enemy.” His soft voice whispered like a breeze through dead leaves.

“Discord, do what you can to help!” Sunset, her flamelike hair blowing in the unnatural breeze, hastily issued orders. She looked at Adagio, who held Chainbreaker in front of her like a shield. Sunset gazed into the magenta eyes beneath the crown made of broken chains. “And you need to figure something out and get the hell out of there!”

Examining the dozen-strong group, who all nodded and smiled with confidence in her command of the crisis at hand, Sunset used the magical force of the Element of Redemption to reach deep inside herself. She tapped into a flowing river of unimaginable arcane power that rippled outwards from her body. They rearranged themselves into a single long line, all holding one another’s hands. From left to right, Scootaloo, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, Aria, Sonata, Sunset, Rarity, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy and Discord stood defiantly and faced the gateway that evil magic had torn between worlds.

Vecna tore his one-eyed gaze from Adagio, and stroked his skeletal chin admiringly. He chuckled, and his soft voice ominously addressed Sunset. “I am too late to stop you from your triumph, but time has no meaning to the Lord of Death. You have attracted my interest, hornless unicorn, which even the jester who calls himself the Spirit of Chaos knows to be a dangerous prospect. Whether your mortal end comes in minutes or centuries, know that I will do all I can to claim you as my thrall.”

His crimson eyes glowing angrily, Discord shrugged his shoulders and pointed at Vecna with his free hand. “Doubtful. You know what would be fun right now? Undoing all of the awful things Shrieking Raven did here!”

Taking advantage of Vecna’s shift in focus, Adagio jabbed Chainbreaker’s head downward, creating a bright trapdoor, through which she escaped with Leviathan’s starving divinity. She poked her head out of the square of light, winked playfully at the others, and then closed the insubstantial door behind her, passing out of view.

“I don’t know what my future holds, but I’m certain you will not control it.” Sunset announced to the dark being. Suddenly, her body and spirit filled with the Power of Harmony. The Element of Redemption blazed with prismatic light, and Sunset, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy rose into the air, carrying the others along with them. Sonata’s lilac butterfly wings flapped lazily, helping to keep everyone aloft, and the circular blue gem embedded in her chest emitted radiance that halted Vecna’s advance.

“So be it. You, of all these mortals, understand the power of irrevocable decisions. Unleash your celestial fire and know that if we meet again, it will not be on amicable terms,” rasped Vecna, folding his arms and slowly retreating.

Sunset Shimmer’s green-blue irises disappeared, replaced by a glowing white light that projected forth from her eyes. Her words, inspired by Sonata’s glow and originating from the center of her being, echoed throughout the glittering cavern and through the gateway. “I began in the light, favored by the Sun, but chose to fall to darkness. I didn’t believe in the magic of friendship until it was forced upon me, but the moment I saw it and let it enter my heart, I decided to change myself forever. Together, we helped Aria, then Sonata and finally Adagio learn that they can choose to turn their faces towards the Sun once more. We are all stronger for walking through the darkness to reach the light! You will never conquer us as we stand together!”

Six bands of color originating from Sunset, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, Applejack and Rarity rose towards the chamber’s ceiling, and wove themselves into a helical-shaped rainbow. Saturated with beneficial magic, their wounds healed before their eyes. A separate ribbon of arcane energy sprang forth from Discord. The chaotic magic splashed in and out of the multicolored spiral as it danced through an array of wild colors and insane patterns. The rainbow reached its zenith and rocketed through the gateway. It knocked down the vertical wall of water, and caused the terrifying skeletal figure to disappear from view. The six bands of color traced across the back of the cavern like a welding rod drawing a bead, causing steam to rise towards the stalactites as the Power of Harmony sealed the otherworldly veil. Simultaneously, Discord’s magic exploded outward in a cacophonic wave of raw eldritch power that immediately passed out of sight.

The bliss that permeated their beings gradually faded, and the group slowly settled to the ground. The powerful arcane energy illuminating the cavern dissipated nearly as suddenly as it had appeared, and the crystalline echoes that resounded throughout the cavern faded into a deafening silence, the now-unremarkable pool of stagnant water left without a trace of any dark being. As they stared into the empty cavern, a wave of relief washed over the group of friends like an overflowing river of emotion as the bittersweet revelation immersed itself in their collective hearts:

It was over.

Author's Note

Sonata’s additional verses to “Lavender’s Blue” are original compositions. Likewise, the Sirens’ parting song is also an original creation.

Ladies and gentlemen, fillies and gentlecolts, I truly hope that you have enjoyed this chapter of Sunset Shimmer: Element Bearer. Thanks to SerenaAveline's outstanding advice, sage suggestions and editing expertise, I am confident that this was an update worth the additional wait!

The next update will likely conclude the story, and will bring a wonderful ten-month creative journey to a close. I humbly ask for your patience, because this last chapter may also take a bit more than two weeks to properly finish. I hope that you find the time to offer your feedback and thoughts on this climactic chapter, and thank you very much for being part of this adventure from beginning to end!

Prologue

The morning sun glistened off the dew-covered front lawn of Canterlot High School, its rays reflecting brightly off of the statue where the portal to Equestria lay dormant until needed once again. It was Monday, but this particular Monday was a joyful one for Sunset Shimmer. Her custom-fitted leather jacket draped over her left arm, she let the sun shine on her shoulders and arms, a broad smile on her face and a twinkle in her green eyes.

“Has it only been three days?” Sunset mused.

Canterlot High School hadn’t quite returned to normal after the past weekend’s Battle of the Bands. The entire city was abuzz with stories that were quickly mutating into legends and myths about how seven high school girls musically and magically broke the power of an ancient evil from another dimension. Even though thousands of Canterlot’s citizens had attended the final match of the Battle, most of them had trouble remembering the precise details until the three Dazzlings collapsed on stage, clutching frantically at the shards of the blood-red gems they always wore around their necks. Amazingly, the entire audience finished the performance looking away from the stage, instead focusing on the Rainbooms, Sunset Shimmer and Vinyl Scratch, who had set up their equipment atop the hill.

Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna sagely advised the press that the whole night seemed like something out of a dream and that the students should be given time and distance to recover from the incredible special effects presented by the Dazzlings and Rainbooms. Close observers could see Celestia giving a knowing look to Sunset Shimmer as the crowd transformed the Battle of the Bands into an impromptu weekend-long celebration.

For the first time since arriving in this new world, Sunset Shimmer entered the school as soon as the doors were unlocked and nearly jogged to her locker to retrieve two items. Before school started, Sunset had a very important letter to write. Arriving at her locker and opening it, Sunset considered hanging up her leather jacket.

Again remarking to herself and slipping into the familiar garment, “No, I still have a reputation to keep, at least for a little while,” she said, suppressing a very un-Sunset-like giggle.

Despite the disarray in the lower part of her locker, Sunset’s book compartment was very tidy. She reached for a thick oaken-and-brass bound journal with her mark on it – a red-and-gold sunburst with a sinuous line through the center that divided the two colors. If she had the courage to step through the portal and become a unicorn once again, that same mark would have been on her flank.

“One day, I’ll have to teach Rarity about the significance of cutie marks.” Sunset sighed. “She’ll need to be convinced they aren’t tattoos, body art or something else that’s changed as frequently as her clothes.”

The second item was a non-descript black pen case. Sunset opened it and inside was a precious gift – a custom pen with a large amethyst six-pointed star for a cap, and six additional smaller white stars circling the barrel. This sixth star was not an oversight, since the pony that gave the pen to Sunset didn’t have many lapses in her attention to detail. Artistically engraved on the inside of the small case was a brief inscription:

Never forget, it’s never too late to make the right choice. Thank you for saving me and for saving us all. Yours in friendship, Twilight Sparkle.

Sunset opened the tome to a blank page, uncapped the pen and began to write:

Dear Princess Twilight,

I can’t imagine how to thank you for believing in me, so forgive me for rambling. I have a feeling that this letter will not be a short one. We never had much of a chance to go over personal history and the events of the past few months while we were saving the world and you were worried about crafting the right counterspell. In the days after I was defeated and humbled by the Elements of Harmony, I struggled to make it through each day. Your friends – no – our friends warmed to me one by one and brought me back from the edge by helping me atone for my crimes against Canterlot High. They even gave me a hand rebuilding the front entrance. I still can’t believe that Rarity of all people assisted with bricklaying, and that she was good at it! I guess dress patterns and architectural plans aren’t that different after all. Of course, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie quickly warmed up to me in their respective ways – you know how open they are, and it’s nearly impossible not to smile at Pinkie’s antics once she gets started. It took months before Applejack and Rainbow Dash would speak to me directly, and even then, Applejack’s bluntness, no matter how well cushioned with her particular brand of tact, can be difficult to take.

When did things start to change? I think it was during the holidays we’d call Hearth’s Warming Eve in Equestria that I was able to finally look myself in the mirror and not see a fifteen-foot tall demon with fangs, wings and claws. The girls hung a felt stocking on my locker and filled it with small gifts and cards from all of them – and nobody ripped it down or stole it before I had a chance to open it. The candies from Sugarcube Corner, the apple fritters, the sunset earrings, the butterfly origami, and the rainbow scarf finally allowed me to let my guard down a little. The last day before winter break, Rainbow Dash invited me to attend their band’s rehearsal, and, well, things moved forward pretty well after that. I had to develop a thick skin about my past transgressions, though – even my new friends would slip up daily and bring up the day I tried to hurt them, and you. They quickly covered this with a sincere “no offense,” and I would reply with “none taken,” but this still wore on my patience.

This spring has been a blur, and now the past few days, with the Sirens’ arrival, your return, the Battle of the Bands, and now my writing to you. Twilight, I don’t know what to do next. I picked up the microphone that was thrown from your hands and sang what was deep in my heart at that moment. I can’t comprehend what happened. Maybe the other girls are more accustomed to the magic they feel when they play, but you and I are skilled unicorns and have a deeper understanding of magic. And, as an aside, one day you must tell me what nightmare you had that involves the name “Tirek”.

The bottom line is that what I felt with you and what I feel now when I play music isn’t a simple filly’s telekinesis spell or a teleportation spell. What we all did together restored a link from me to Equestria, but the magic is deeper and stronger than I ever remembered it being, even when I was Celestia’s student. You’re smarter and, well, more studious than I am. Please don’t give me any of the worry and humility you showed at Pinkie Pie’s sleepover. You are an alicorn who is coming into your own power, has just been granted a kingdom by the Tree of Harmony and is one of the most powerful mages in all of Equestria. I ask you, and practically beg you, to help me understand more of this magic of friendship and the power of the Elements of Harmony.

Again, we never had much time to talk. Piecing together Celestia’s cryptic references and my rather personal experience with the effects of the Elements, I know there’s six of them: Laughter, represented by Pinkie Pie; Honesty, represented by Applejack; Generosity, represented by Rarity; Kindness, represented by Fluttershy; Loyalty, represented by Rainbow Dash; and Magic, represented by you.

But, I wielded an element a few days ago. What was it? Help me understand.

Sunset looked at the end of her letter as students began to file in for school and wondered how to finish it. The sun’s rays through the window caught the amethyst star, now reflected onto the page, and inspiration struck her.

Your faithful student,
Sunset Shimmer

The former unicorn closed the book, which vibrated with eldritch energy. Sunset stood, walked into her first period classroom and took a seat at her desk. She gasped at the student that practically slithered through the door mere seconds before the bell rang.

Sonata had obviously been crying, with barely open red-rimmed eyes and a bruise on her left cheek which was badly disguised with cheap makeup. Her unkempt hair poked out of the sides of her stained, disheveled hoodie. The other students looked at her with disgust as she walked quickly to the back of the room, taking a seat in a chair instead of a desk, keeping as far away from the others as she could. As Sonata curled into a ball on the chair and faced the wall, the book in Sunset’s bag buzzed and glowed red for a moment. Forgetting the distressed Siren for a moment, Sunset opened the book with a sharp intake of breath. She read:

Dear Sunset Shimmer,

I have little time now, but your letter required an immediate response. I will write much more later, as we need to discuss that I am simply “Twilight” and I’m getting used to running a kingdom, let alone the hesitation I have with taking on a student. Let’s start with friendship.

I believe you represent an undiscovered element.

My theory is that you are the Bearer of Redemption.

Yours in friendship,
Twilight Sparkle

Author's Note

I made minor edits to the Prologue on 11/26/2014 in an effort to fix several mistakes I made as a new fan fiction writer.

As noted elsewhere, the Prologue is my very first fan fiction attempt. I couldn't stop thinking about the end of Rainbow Rocks since I saw it with my young daughter in early October 2014. After a playground conversation with her about how important it was that Sunset Shimmer became "a good guy" after being "a bad guy", I became inspired and took my first step into the world of fan fiction.

Please help me improve my writing and help me keep the spark for writing this story! Thank you in advance!

Chapter Two

The six girls clustered around the tome in the center of the cafeteria table eyed one another in stunned silence, nervously waiting for each of them to finish reading Twilight Sparkle’s magically-delivered message from Equestria, with the exception of Sunset Shimmer, who stared at the book, a frown of concentration creasing her features. The seriousness at their table was in stark contrast with the rest of the raucous, almost joyful, cafeteria.

Applejack broke the silence with a low whistle. “Well, so much for celebrating the rest of the year. Twilight sure gave us quite a bit to think about.” She pushed her trademark hat further back on to her head, “What do you all make of it?”

“Awwwwww,” Pinkie Pie moaned in disappointment, “I can’t go through the portal? But I would have had so much incredible fun with the other me! I’d even started making her best-friend-forever rock candy necklaces, like I make for Maud. Do ponies even eat candy? Could I bring a sousaphone? How would I look with four legs?”

“Pinkie, dear, I think you might be missing the point.” Rarity redirected her energetic friend. “Let’s take this one step at a time. Twilight acted very responsibly by closing the portal. She is worried for us and for all of us here at CHS that could put themselves in, at best, a disorienting situation. As a Princess, it sounds like she has her hands, hooves, and mind completely full right now,” she declared with a calming pat on Pinkie’s forearm.

“Excuse me, Sunset Shimmer,” broke in Fluttershy, “but could you help us out? You’re the only one of us that can really teach us about Twilight’s warning. You are being so quiet and it scares me a little.” She ended her request in a whisper.

“Sorry about that, Fluttershy. I’m sorry, everyone. This just brings back an awful lot all at once,” Sunset Shimmer said as she snapped back to reality with a shake of her head. “But, I need to keep this link to Equestria safe and secret,” she said with a pointed glance at Pinkie Pie. Slipping the magic book into her bag under the table and wrapping her leather jacket around herself protectively, Sunset hesitantly asked, “How much do you really want to know?”

“Everything you can tell us,” said Rainbow Dash seriously, scooting as close to the table as she could, “and I totally get it that you won’t be able to tell us everything. If there’s anything I learned last week, I can’t do it all myself and this is way more your thing than mine.” Applejack arched an eyebrow, so Rainbow Dash continued. “Come on, AJ, let me get through this! Sunset Shimmer, you proved yourself an awesome friend here after we got past the Fall Formal aftermath. I think I just sort of forgot about your life before coming here. Um, it just didn’t seem like that big of a difference to the stuff that really mattered.”

Seeing the trust and agreement reflected in the eyes looking at her, Sunset Shimmer nodded. “There’s way more than I can cover in a lunch period, or in a whole month of slumber parties, Rainbow Dash, but I’ll tell you the most important things for now, and translate what I read from Twilight’s letter as best I can. Got it?” The girls all nodded agreeably.

“Okay, here we go,” she began, brushing her gold-and-red streaked hair behind her ears. “Listen carefully, because I can’t exactly yell this stuff across the cafeteria. Twlight’s scared about something, but she’s not telling us even half of what she knows. It’s easy to simplify her as a magical-prodigy bookworm, but she’s a scientist through-and-through who just happens to have earned the title of Princess. I have my own thoughts, but I’m so out of practice with magical theory that I’d be totally guessing.”

“Sunset Shimmer, I’m more comfortable with your guesses than most people’s facts, especially when it comes to magic,” said Fluttershy with a smile.

“Thanks, Fluttershy. There are all kinds of things Twilight made me think about: undead, evil spirits, bad faeries, and opponents of Starswirl the Bearded leap immediately to mind. All of these are probably more dangerous than the Dazzlings. Equestria was even at war with griffons and minotaurs if I can separate legend from history. All of these creatures can use or need to feed on magic to survive. Some are intelligent and crafty, while others are all about brute force.”

She gestured with a yellow-hued hand, “As far as I can tell, there’s only one me and only one set of Sirens.” She gestured with the other hand. “But there are two of all of you, including Celestia and Luna. The way that the Dazzlings were ripped from Equestria may have something to do with it, but my best guess is that nearly every person, pony, or creature with a soul has an alternate version on the other side of the mirror. While so much is similar between parallel worlds, you’re all unique with separate choices and separate memories.”

The former unicorn continued. “I can only speak for myself, but when the portal opened this fall, I could feel my pony magic again. I couldn’t use it, but it was like static electricity that was all through the air. It was tiny, but that tingle was there. Now, with three major Equestrian magical discharges in one year, the natural magic in the air is much greater than it was. It’s probably one reason why ears and wings appear when the Rainbooms play. But, using the magic in the Elements of Harmony is like trying to dump a lake into a swimming pool. There’s going to be massive overflow.”

“Static electricity??? I love that!” bounced Pinkie Pie, having pulled her curly hair pulled at least a foot away from her face in every direction. “Oooh, did you say there was going to be a pool party???”

Sunset Shimmer smiled at her friend’s antics and shook her head. “I wish this was a party, Pinkie, and I hope we can have one soon, but Twilight is right to warn us. This is a problem. I cut short my formal magical education, but right now I feel like I can almost use weak telekinesis spells in this body.” Clasping her hands in front of her, Sunset furrowed her brow and narrowed her green-blue eyes. “Starswirl the Bearded couldn’t see the future, but girls, look to your own history. A thousand years ago, this world had stories of dragons, monsters, and fantastic creatures that were vanquished or just disappeared. If this was a mass exile, it might have been part of the founding of the Canterlot dynasty.”

With wide violet eyes, Rainbow Dash reached across the table with a smile and squeezed the hand of her worried friend. “Sunset, the next time I say to tell me everything, could you make it a little more bite-sized? Don’t worry. We’ve got your back!” the others smiled and began packing for the start of afternoon classes.

Sunset blushed. “That means a lot, Rainbow Dash.” She made eye contact with all the others, then wrapped up. “We all just need to watch for anything strange and I can report back.” She puckered her lips to one side and hesitantly added, “Even though Twilight will help, I sort of want to prove we can handle a few things ourselves.”

Applejack glanced at the clock. “Of course we’ll all keep our guard up. Right, girls?” She looked to her friends for agreement which was quickly given. “But first thing’s first. Sunset, get Sonata over to the farm later this afternoon and we’ll make sure she’s all right while keeping an eye on her. Besides, some chores and fresh air may do us all some good to get my head around all this.”

“One last question, Sunset Shimmer,” asked Rarity politely, fixing her with her blue eyes, “Do you believe in Twilight’s theory about the Elements of Harmony?”

Bravely returning the gaze, Sunset struggled to keep her voice steady. “Rarity, I said I’d tell you everything and I will. Activating the magic and joining together to defeat the Dazzlings and break their spell was sweeter than a first kiss and reminded me of the first time I ever felt the spark of magic in my horn. If I wasn’t floating and then hugging you all, I would have dropped to my knees to thank Princess Celestia.” The honorific was intentionally added to separate her from the Principal. “You have all seen me at my worst and I’m scared to death of the awful, hurtful things I am capable of doing. This time I needed to do what needed to be done to save my friends. But, I worry what I will decide to do next time. Bottom line, I believe in all of you and we need to help each other do the right thing.”

Brushing away a tear, Fluttershy summed it up. “We love you too, Sunny,” and she initiated a group hug.

Muffled by the others’ bodies, Sunset Shimmer protested. “Fluttershy, please don’t call me that!”

The rest of the school day passed uneventfully. Applejack and Sunset Shimmer met outside of Nurse Redheart’s office five minutes after the last bell rang, while students were hastily streaming out of the school and out into the spring afternoon. The blonde-haired farmgirl was eager to finish her chores with the remaining daylight, but was held back by the look on the other girl’s face.

“Applejack, we need to be delicate with her. I don’t think her body is the thing that’s hurt the worst. Do you think you could use a little tact?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

“I told you I’d help and I am,” she told Sunset, tamping down mild annoyance, “but I’m glad she’ll be outnumbered at the farm.”

The leather-clad shoulders rose and fell with a great sigh. Sunset said, “I think you’ll understand more after you talk with her.”

Entering the office, Nurse Redheart smiled at the two girls over a steaming cup of coffee. Sonata Dusk had discarded her dirty sweatshirt and skirt and was wearing a borrowed blue-and-gold Canterlot High School gym uniform. The angry kaleidoscope of colors in her facial bruise made Applejack gasp.

“How are you feeling, sugar cube? In case you didn’t catch it before, I’m Sunset Shimmer’s friend Applejack,” she said.

“I’m Sonata Dusk. I’m doing a little better.” She looked at Sunset Shimmer with a weak smile. “You were right about Nurse Redheart. She’s very good at her job.”

“Thank you, Sonata. I’m glad I could help,” the school nurse replied.

“So, here’s the plan,” declared Sunset, “You and I are going to help Applejack on her family’s farm and spend the night out there. Is that all right with you?”

Looking down at the floor, the Siren gave a quick “Mmmm-hmmm.”

Placing a hand on her shoulder, Applejack mentioned, “If you help me get some of the work done around the farm, I’ll loan you some clothes and you can soak in the bathtub. Deal?”

At the mention of a bath, Sonata raised her eyes to meet Applejack’s, the corners of her mouth lifting. “Sounds good to me,” she demurely assented.

The three filed out of the office, left the school, and walked to the street, where a very impatient Big Macintosh was sitting behind the wheel of an older-model pickup truck. After directing Big Mac, Applejack’s older brother, to take on two additional passengers, the party of four drove through the city of Canterlot. On the outskirts of town, the truck quickly turned a curve and traveled down a small rise, where a large apple orchard and attending farm spread as far as their eyes could see. The words “Sweet Apple Acres” were painted in red on a white arch over the gravel-two-track that served as an access road.

The central part of the orchard contained a huge farmhouse, an even larger barn to support the farm’s livestock, and an equipment support building. The inviting farmhouse had signs of wear on its red siding, but was obviously sturdy and well-cared for. A pyramid of empty barrels near the barn reminded the Apple family that harvest was still many months away. Sunset watched Sonata closely as she closed her eyes and inhaled deeply.

“What an incredible smell! What is that?” Sonata Dusk asked Applejack.

“I’m going to assume you’re talking about the apple blossoms and not the manure!” she told Sonata while Sunset Shimmer smiled. Sweet Apple Acres in full bloom was a glorious site and over the past several months, the orchard often reminded Sunset that nature was one of the unifying forces between her two worlds.

“The flowers are so beautiful! I’ve never seen anything like it,” Sonata said, tossing her blue hair as she sat up a little straighter, “So, what do I need to do to get a bath around here?”

Her directness about something so simple was refreshing and brought a genuine smile to Sunset’s face. “Well, you have to earn it, first. I hope you don’t mind getting that borrowed gym uniform dirty! Don’t worry. I do chores with Applejack all the time,” said Sunset Shimmer.

In the two hours before dinner, the three girls completed a full list of chores. Applejack found that Sonata readily accepted direction and instructions. Sunset thought, with a twinge of suspicion, that her obedience was a little too prompt. Once Applejack showed her what to do a couple of times, Sonata proved quite competent at basic farm chores. The three moved hay from the loft to feed the livestock, made sure that the orchard equipment was ready to tend the flowering trees tomorrow morning, and made a good start at mucking out the barn. They had worked up quite a sweat when Granny Smith’s ringing of a large, wrought-iron triangle rescued them.

“Dinner in five minutes! Come in and wash up!” shouted the Apple Family's matriarch.

The three girls took turns washing their hands and as much of the rest of them as they could at the large kitchen sink and sat down at the cramped dinner table. Joining them were Big Macintosh, Granny Smith, and Applejack’s younger sister, Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom’s eyes widened in shock when she saw Sonata seated between her sister and Sunset Shimmer. She opened her mouth to speak, but after one stern look from Granny Smith the teenager’s jaw snapped shut.

Sunset began the conversation. “Granny Smith, there’s one question I’ve always wanted to ask you. Why is it that you work at the high school? It seems like there’s so much work that needs to be done here at Sweet Apple Acres.”

“I’m just glad that I get a chance to see at least two of my grandchildren every day! Not everyone can do that. Besides, the farm is doing very well and I need to give Big Mac the space he needs to run things his way. I won’t be around forever and need to know he’ll have everything working like clockwork.” Fixing the new arrival shrewdly, she inquired, “Well, young lady, you’ve had quite a weekend, haven’t you? That’s a nasty bruise you have there. The best way to get those to heal is to eat up and get lots of sleep. I’ll do my part by making sure you go to bed with a full stomach!”

“Thank you very much,” said Sonata mechanically.

Big Macintosh had been fidgeting all meal long and finally found his opening to address Applejack. “I know she’s helped with the chores and all, but why did you bring her here? Though Celestia and Luna are doing their best to hide it, that girl and her two friends almost killed you and drove the rest of us crazy,” he boomed with his forceful baritone.

“Because I have to believe that she’s better than that,” Sunset Shimmer jumped in, grossly simplifying the situation for Big Mac’s benefit. He didn’t need to know everything. “Sonata was looking for ways to make the best of her situation from this point forward, and the other two Dazzlings couldn’t handle that. Adagio hit her and ran off with Aria. I found her in class this morning and knew she needed some help. Thankfully, Applejack volunteered to give me a hand.” She pushed her now-empty plate back and pointedly added, “We all need the chance and the choice to make things right, even Sonata. I know I did.”

Applejack nodded, supporting her friend. Sunset Shimmer noticed a marked shift in Apple Bloom’s body language, indicating uncertain sympathy from overt hostility. Big Macintosh relented for the moment. “I just hope you know what you’re doing.”

Granny Smith interrupted, “And what we’re doing now is dessert!” Turning to the blue-skinned girl, Granny asked, “What do you want? Apple pie, apple fritter, caramel apples, candied apples, applesauce…”

Sunset Shimmer and Sonata Dusk were excused from dishwashing duty to get settled in Applejack’s room. Sunset guided Sonata toward the bathroom for her long promised bath. “I’ll bring you some of Applejack’s clothes. They may not fit you as well as your other stuff, but they’ll get you through tonight and tomorrow better than the gym uniform. Do you need anything else?”

Sonata was relieved. “Not really, but could you just come back as quickly as you can, Sunset Shimmer? I am having a lot of trouble being alone after this weekend.”

The red-and-gold-haired girl knocked on the door after gathering the least embroidered of Applejack’s outfits, settling on a plain white T-shirt and a pair of work jeans. She entered and saw a bathtub full of water and bubbles, but didn’t immediately see Sonata. Before she could panic, Sonata surfaced with a loud intake of breath after being totally submerged.

Sunset Shimmer put a hand to her chest in shock. “You worried me for a moment! How did you hold your breath that long? Here, I brought you the clothes I promised.”

A smiling Sonata replied, “Thank you very much! Did you know that I spent almost all my time in the water before, um, coming to this world? That’s why I sooooo love baths! It reminds me of home. I can hold my breath, close my eyes, and pretend. But trying to swim in the ocean without scales is the worst. It’s so cold.”

Sunset noticed that the bubble bath had an amazing effect on Sonata’s bruises. The colors had changed from deep blues and purples, to a lighter blue that was only a few shades darker than her skin. The entire area had decreased by about a third, too. “Wow, you look a whole lot better after just a bit of time in the water! How are your chest and ribs doing?”

“They’re better, too. They don’t hurt as much. Your nurse was right. With some food, some sleep, and spending some time in the water, I’ll be back to normal in no time.” Sonata’s smile winked out as she came to a realization, “But, what is normal for me now? I feel so alone and scared. I feel magic and emotions but can’t tap into them. It’s like my hunger belongs to someone else, but that, Aria, and Adagio are all I can remember.”

Sunset sat on a stool near the tub. “Sonata, I want to help you, but I can’t make all your decisions for you and I certainly can’t tell you who you are without your songs and other powers. You have to decide what you want to be. I decided I wanted friendship, not power or revenge. That’s not an easy path, to fall from being the most talented of Celestia’s students and later, the most popular girl at CHS, to being hated.” She smiled and added kindly, “It’s my friends and the choices I made that kept me from being broken and alone.”

Sonata leaned over the edge of the bathtub, blue-streaked hair falling over one eye, “You could help me all by yourself,” she purred seductively, “You don’t need to have those other girls around.” Sonata, with half-lidded lilac-colored eyes, reached out to Sunset Shimmer and began to hum.

Shocked by the brazen, ham-fisted attempt to sow discord and by the atonal cacophony coming from the other girl, Sunset snapped, “Sonata, what in Celestia’s name are you doing?” using an Equestrian oath for maximum effect.

“No! Oh, no, no no!!!” the Siren sobbed as she sank beneath the surface of the water. Surfacing again after a full minute, she cried “I can’t stop! I need my song back! Why can’t it go back to the way it was? What do I do, Sunset? Help me…” her voice trailed off as she buried her face in her hands.

Sunset Shimmer’s eyes flashed in mingled anger and disappointment. “I’ll meet you in Applejack’s room,” she calmly stood and added from the doorway, almost haughtily, “Princess Twilight Sparkle warned me that I could seek out the magic of friendship or forever be alone. I think it’s your move.” Shutting the door behind her, Sunset wiped tears of her own from her eyes.

Sonata dried off, continuously wiping away tears, and brushed out her long blue-streaked hair. The painful knots created from days on the street added to her pain, but after fifteen minutes she looked presentable and was composed enough to leave the bathroom in her borrowed clothes. Not ready to confront Applejack and Sunset Shimmer, Sonata Dusk went out on the farmhouse’s front porch. The cool spring evening felt good on her damp hair, calming her. The troubled girl sat on the Apple Family porch swing and slowly moved back and forth, eyes fixed on her knees and mind worlds away.

“Uh, Sonata?” asked a cautious, young voice. She looked up at its source, Applejack’s little sister Apple Bloom, wearing pajamas and a comically oversized bow that held back her hair. “Are you OK?”

“I don’t know. I think I really messed up this time and I don’t know what to do. Would you sit with me for a while? I don’t want to be by myself,” The younger girl joined Sonata on the swing. The two looked at the stars in silence, taking in the fragrance of the apple blossoms, slowly going back and forth.

Apple Bloom worked up the courage to speak, looking up at the older girl. “I don’t want to pry, but I always thought that the best thing to do when you’ve made a big mistake is to say that you’re sorry. If you mean it, you won’t make the same one again. That’s what Granny Smith has been telling me for as long as I can remember.”

Sonata stopped the swing, and in a fit of wide-eyed impulsiveness, she broadly smiled, and swooped Apple Bloom up in a bear hug. “That’s it! Thank you, little one!”, she cried, rushing.

“I’m not that little,” protested Apple Bloom to the night sky, rolling her eyes.

Sunset Shimmer told Applejack about Sonata’s bath. Sunset’s hurt and disappointment fed Applejack’s resurgent mistrust. Applejack was about to find their guest and ask her to leave, when there was a soft knock at the bedroom door. The blonde farmgirl opened the door to discover an uncomfortable Sonata Dusk.

Applejack’s eyes narrowed dangerously, and she opened her mouth to speak, but a single blue finger was held up in an appeal. “Please, I need to tell you both something.”

“Fine,” replied Applejack suspiciously.

“I apologize. I am sorry for trying to drive the two of you apart. I’m sorry for being stupid and useless,” Applejack looked back at Sunset, who was sitting cross-legged on top of her sleeping bag. Sonata’s confession had grown from a trickle to a torrent. “I’m sorry for tricking you and stealing your magic. I’m sorry for trying to kill you and take over this world. But, most of all, I’m sorry I can’t make myself stop being a Siren.”

She reached into the pocket of the borrowed jeans and brought forth a small cardboard box. “Sunset Shimmer, I want you to have these. It’s the best promise that I can make to stay out of trouble while you are helping me, and I need to have this box far away from me for a little while.”

Sunset Shimmer edged past a stunned Applejack and took the box from her hand. She slid it open to see the crystalline red fragments of Sonata’s magical pendant. Snapping it shut, her mouth opened in surprise, which was concealed by giving Sonata a brief hug. “That’s a better beginning. Let’s get some sleep and figure out how to help you make better choices tomorrow.” She led Sonata by the hand to a pile of pillows and blankets spread out on an air mattress. Sunset gave Applejack a look that screamed We’ll talk later.

Despite her nap at school and the illumination of Applejack's small desk lamp, Sonata quickly nodded off, curled up into a ball underneath the blankets. Her long blue hair splayed across the pillow. Asleep, with the bruise concealed by the pillow, she looked beautiful and peaceful. In slumber, Sonata’s face was smooth, with no indication of a Siren’s spite or a girl’s terror.

“I’m glad for whatever caused that, but I’m still confused,” whispered Applejack.

“I’m more glad that you agreed to take her in, and that your intuition was correct that we needed to outnumber her,” replied Sunset Shimmer, “She was so quiet and innocent today, it took me by surprise. But why did she give me the broken pendant?”

“To be honest, I think you’d better get that fancy pen of yours and tell Twilight about this, no matter how much you want to make Sonata Dusk your own responsibility. There’s a lot more to it than your pride. Remember, I can see stubborn a mile away,” directed Applejack with a playful twinkle in her green eyes.

Suppressing a yawn, Sunset Shimmer began to write.

Dear Princess Twilight

Sunset Shimmer drew a single line through the formal greeting and it magically disappeared from the page.

Dear Twilight,

Today, Sonata Dusk reappeared at Canterlot High School. Adagio hurt her badly (both physically and spiritually) after Sonata encouraged her to move forward in this world. The high school was the first place she thought of to find help, but she’d been hiding on the street for a couple of days. She’s still pretty dazed, but we were able to get her some medical attention and bring her to Sweet Apple Acres to figure out what to do next. While I was watching her during a bubble bath, Sonata tried to divide me from Applejack with a song, but her voice has no power.

She obviously felt terrible at what she had tried to do, and apologized after a while, but I’m worried that she’s still trying to be a Siren. It’s troubling on many different levels to watch her flip between a thousand-year-old master of manipulation and a scared, lonely teenage girl. If this bit lands on horseshoes instead of heads, I worry what might happen next. I have to encourage her to make good choices, stop manipulating others, and teach her that she controls her own destiny. I’d appreciate any advice you could offer. Also, Sonata gave me the shards of her pendant tonight. She attached a lot of significance to that act, almost like a human general handing his sword to an enemy in surrender. There’s still magic there, but I’m glad that it’s weak and unfocused.

Finally, the girls and I went over your letter today at lunch, and I had to tell them about some of the legends about the time when Starswirl the Bearded helped Luna and Celestia establish Canterlot Kingdom. I also gave them a little bit of background information about Equestrian magic. The five of them were brave and I didn’t want to disturb them too much. I just know that it’s too much of a coincidence that the Sirens were sent here about the same time that Nightmare Moon was banished, and only a few years after the founding of Canterlot and the discovery of the Elements of Harmony.

Sunset Shimmer looked back at her letter, “…weak and unfocused...” she mumbled to herself, and then stood up and did an exaggerated happy dance to the surprise of a sleepy Applejack. “AJ, you have a furnace and anvil here, right?”

The blonde girl sleepily answered, “Yeah, way out by the Honeycrisp trees so it doesn’t burn the house down. Why?”

With a look of determination, Sunset shook the box with the shards and answered, “I have a very important craft project that involves Sonata,” she smiled and finished her letter to Twilight.

I just figured out what to do. If you could send me some information on the reforging of magical items and the removal of powerful curses, I would really appreciate it.

Faithfully yours,
Sunset Shimmer

Shutting the book with a triumphant “thump”, the red-and-gold sunburst glowed with magical energy, sending the message to its twin in Ponyville. A broad smile on her face, Sunset Shimmer settled into her sleeping bag for the night and turned out the light.

Deep in the orchard, two pairs of unfriendly eyes saw the last light wink out in the farmhouse.

“When I get a hold of that traitor, I’ll make that last beating look like a good night kiss. I don’t know why I pulled you away, Adagio,” venomously dripped Aria Blaze.

With a firm grasp, Adagio Dazzle pulled them both to a seat on the ground, “Not today, Aria. Sonata’s betrayal deserves something much more artful. A symphony of revenge will take some time to compose. For now, we wait, we watch, and we follow,” the leader pointed.

Aria followed the yellow finger to a solitary figure slipping out of a first floor window. The moonlight reflected on Apple Bloom as she stealthily walked toward the main road from the farmhouse.

Author's Note

Thanks for your patience, everyone! I know this chapter ran a bit long, but I had to wrap up the scene at Sweet Apple Acres properly. My travels across the United States went well, and I'm glad to spend time with my extended family for a big celebration. It was a lot of driving, and it's going to take me a few days to catch up.

I appreciate the comments and private messages encouraging me to keep writing. I'm very happy that you enjoy the story and it's your feedback that keeps me motivated. I'll work to get on a predictable submission schedule as time goes on. I must balance writing with family life and employment, which isn't easy because you all are just so *fun*!

Minor edits on this chapter completed on 12/19/2014.

Chapter Seventeen

Sonata Dusk examined her reflection in the grime-streaked mirror, hissing and wincing in pain as she pressed her fingers against her temple.

“Four-oh-one, four-oh-two,” she resumed her counting while fidgeting with the spiked leather bracelets spanning her wrists.

Sunset Shimmer hadn’t completely abandoned her former shadowy lair in the school's maintenance room. When she had taken Sonata there on Monday morning, she didn’t have the time to break out the creature comforts, but Sunset had hidden a comfortable folding chair and secreted a small stock of snack food, which the blue-haired Siren shamelessly pillaged. While some of the food had spoiled, the yellow sponge cake with cream filling had an expiration date ten years hence, so Sonata’s counting was muffled as she took the last bite of the sugary snack.

“Four-twenty,” declared Sonata. Precisely seven minutes after the bell sounded to start the high school’s third period, she stood, wiped her mouth, stowed the chair and checked her reflection one last time.

The blue-haired Siren zipped up her gray hooded sweatshirt and cautiously opened the door to the school’s hallway. Hearing nothing but silence, she left the maintenance room and shuffled towards the nearest girl’s bathroom.

Hmm, where to sit so I get found quickly? Sonata thought. She slipped inside the second-to-last stall, sat on the toilet seat and waited impassively. After several more minutes, the door creaked open and she heard the soft thump of athletic shoes on the bathroom’s tile floor. She began to sob just loudly enough to be heard.

The new arrival knocked on the door to Sonata’s stall. “Hello? Are you alright?” The girl’s voice was high pitched and tentative.

“I need to use a phone. Do you have yours with you?” asked Sonata, who followed up her question with a loud sniff.

White tennis shoes with turquoise laces appeared beneath the stall door. “I have my phone, but what’s wrong? I'm going to open the door, okay?” She opened the stall door and looked at Sonata. Her turquoise eyes sprang open and her mouth opened in shock. She cursed loudly then clamped her hands over her mouth. “What happened to you? Should I get a teacher?”

Sonata whimpered, “No, thank you. I just want to call for someone to pick me up. I had a terrible accident,” she smiled weakly as she told her lie. “I was dropping something off on the chemistry lab tables when I lost my balance. I smacked my head on the corner of the table pretty hard, and the knob on one of the drawers caught the pocket of my jeans and tore them.”

Tennis Match handed Sonata her cell phone while running her free hand through her short hair. “Are you sure you don’t want me to at least fetch your friends or Nurse Redheart? Rainbow Dash would know what to do and Rarity has to have some extra clothes,” she said uncertainly.

Sonata blushed and covered her face. “I’m pretty embarrassed, so I need to handle this on my own. I don’t want to tell Applejack that her jeans were too loose on me because she might take it the wrong way. There’s no way I’ll go walking around the school like this, though. Boys are such perverts!” she declared with an embarrassed chuckle.

She nodded. “Okay, Sonata. I’ll keep this quiet.”

“Fair enough,” replied Sonata. She dialed a number and heard a familiar voice answer.

The Siren burst into hysterics. “It’s Sonata Dusk! I’ve been hurt and I need you to come get me at school!” She whispered into the phone, so the other girl couldn’t hear. “Adagio beat me up again, much worse than before!”

Tennis Match couldn’t hear the words clearly but heard a booming male voice asking questions.

“No, I can’t tell them! I’ll tell you more when you get here, but you’re the only one I can trust to help me with this problem. I need you!” cried Sonata loudly, cradling the phone against her ear with both hands.

Feeling suddenly unwelcome, Tennis Match took a step towards the door as she listened to one side of the phone conversation.

Sonata’s tone quickly shifted from despondent to instructive. “Pick me up at the maintenance loading dock, so nobody sees you. Please don’t tell the hands or Applejack’s friends, because it’s all too much. Come here right away!” She heard an affirmative reply and then hung up the phone.

“I know you caused a lot of trouble last week, but if you’re friends with Rainbow Dash now, I suppose everything is fine. She does strange things now and again, too. If I took a shot to the dome like you did, I know I’d want to sneak away!” She smoothed the front of her tennis outfit and shyly added, “Are you sure I can’t do anything else for you, Sonata? You don’t look so good.”

Wincing and then smiling, Sonata handed the phone back to its owner. “No, thank you. You’ve been so kind.” She stood with difficulty and patted the other girl’s shoulder. “Thanks for making sure I don’t get embarrassed any worse.” She maneuvered around the other girl and limped into the hallway.

Once the restroom door closed with a resounding thump, Sonata walked briskly and boldly back to the maintenance room to await Big Macintosh’s arrival. She unzipped the hooded sweatshirt and then absently dabbed away the blood from her cheekbone with a paper towel. A cruel smile spread across her face as she gazed at her reflection in the filthy mirror.

“It’s a lovely day for regime change.”

“Um, Professor Discord, may I please sit down now?” asked Fluttershy tentatively. She pinched the fabric of the silvery, ice blue gown. Discord’s magic had bound her long, pink hair into a braid that fell atop her left shoulder. “This snowflake tiara hurts my head.”

The Spirit of Chaos had cleared his desk in order to conduct a demonstration for the assembled class. A chunk of metal, currently covered in frost, was on display. A large three-paneled screen sat in the front corner of the room to Discord’s left, and a stack of sheets sat on the unused desk chair. It was clear that his antics had attracted students from all over the school, since there were about a dozen more students than desks in the crowded classroom. There were even some students that had skipped other classes to attend multiple sessions. The class instinctively knew that the strange substitute teacher was using magic, but the desk, sheets, screen, and sleight of hand concealed the scope of Discord’s abilities.

Discord emerged from behind the changing screen, wearing a black, clinging ice-skating costume adorned with flames. “Miss Fluttershy, you’ve been wonderfully patient. Thank you for helping me use the liquid nitrogen to cool the metal. Please leave the gown behind the screen and sit down. Oh, and I do recommend that you take cover.” As she disappeared from view, he snapped his fingers and the shimmering dress disappeared, replaced by her normal tank top and skirt. Once back in more familiar clothing, Fluttershy sprinted to the back of the room as the class burst into spontaneous applause.

Rarity, seated in the front row, stage whispered to Discord. “Tone it down, sir! My fellow students are getting unruly.” She folded her arms in disdain, looked over the top of her red spectacles and added loudly, “By the way, that outfit went out of style twenty-five years ago and you’re too portly to make it work anyway.”

The Spirit of Chaos sashayed to Rarity’s desk and tapped her shoulder with a single finger. “Miss Rarity, you should embrace recent history more readily before you insult my wardrobe! And my belly is the result of a very pleasant month of living in a castle,” he quipped.

Discord spread one of the sheets, hiding Rarity for a moment. With a flash of chaotic magic, her ensemble suddenly sprouted shoulder pads and her purple coiffure disintegrated into tight spiral curls combined with outrageous bangs. The heavily hairsprayed style climbed towards the ceiling. When Discord removed the sheet and handed her a mirror, the class erupted in laughter. Rarity looked at herself in horror.

“Aqua Net? You could hurt someone with this object! It’s enormous!” exclaimed Rarity, who gazed in horror at the huge can of hairspray that Discord caused to appear along with her outfit.

Discord shook his index finger disapprovingly at the class. “Cease that cruel laughter right now! I’ll give you plenty of slack for the hormones marinating your adolescent brains, but that’s a step too far. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie have taught me that being amused is all right, but laughing at others is not! It’s a fine line.” They fell silent. “I’m sorry, Rarity. I let my enthusiasm get the best of me.”

He swept the sheet over Rarity and she was returned to her normal appearance. “Apology accepted, Mr. Discord. Now, please continue. There are only a few moments remaining in this period,” she said, glancing nervously at her watch.

Discord shouted, “Class, are you ready to see physics in action? I give you the destructive power of fire and ice!”

The students raucously cheered Discord on. In the back of the room, Fluttershy covered her face with her hands.

The Spirit of Chaos reached beneath his desk and retrieved an oxy-acetylene torch and matching safety goggles that his magic had brought into being. The attached hose trailed under the lonely piece of furniture. The class clapped in rhythm as Discord ignited the torch and rapidly heated the chunk of metal suspended over the desk.

“Those of you in the front row may want to seek shelter immediately,” he warned, adding a conspiratorial wink.

Teenagers scrambled for the back of the room as the rapid expansion of the frozen metal caused a loud bang. The cylindrical object burst into several pieces and clattered harmlessly to the desk and floor. Suddenly, the bell sounded to end the class period.

Discord stashed everything under the desk and a sweep of a sheet caused everything to return to its normal appearance. He stepped behind the screen to instantly change his own clothes, then adjusted the tie on his tweed suit. As the students headed for the exit, he stepped back into view and announced, “Remember, the tension between opposites makes the universe go around, but can be very destructive if used carelessly. Be safe this weekend and don’t take any candy from strangers driving white vans with no windows!” He flashed a self-satisfied grin to Fluttershy.

She timidly brushed her pink hair out of her face and frowned slightly. “Discord, each class gets wilder than the last. You’re using way too much magic and attracting too much attention.”

“I thought I saw Vice Principal Luna look through the window just before you transformed poor Fluttershy into an ice princess,” added Rarity. She removed her glasses and set them on the desk. “Please, could you use your cosmic powers or whatever it is you do to put on some decent clothing that stays the same for more than thirty seconds?”

Discord rolled his eyes and straightened his butterfly lapel pin. “Oh, fine. I’ll put away most of the props for the next class and will cut my costume changes in half.” He stroked his beard and smiled at Rarity. “You can’t deny that your classmates are learning, though.”

Fluttershy jumped in, smiling broadly. “Yes, Discord! These past two days have been the most memorable math and science classes in the school’s history.” She looked down at her feet and her cheeks took on a pink hue. “But, even though you put me in a gorgeous dress, please don’t call me up front again today.”

“I’m so sorry, my dear. I promise I won’t do that again,” replied Discord soberly, placing a hand over his heart.

Fluttershy moved towards the door. “I need to take a quick break. Can I get either of you anything from the snack shop or vending machines?”

Rarity shook her head. Discord reached into his pocket and tossed Fluttershy a heavy gold doubloon. “I could use about four of those energy drinks that Rainbow Dash is always talking about. You wouldn’t believe the conversation I was having in my dreams last night!”

“Sure thing, Discord! I’ll be right back!” Fluttershy stepped through the door, looked back once, blushed again and moved down the hallway.

Rising from her desk and approaching the eccentric Equestrian, Rarity narrowed her blue eyes and asked, “Discord, while we’ve only just met, may I ask you a personal question?”

“I certainly don’t mind, though I am concerned about you adding unnecessary drama to an already tense situation. No offense, of course,” he said, raising one eyebrow. He held a mask of a smiling face in his right hand and one portraying a crying visage in his left hand.

“None taken, but…” Rarity jabbed a finger into Discord’s chest, directly below the lifelike lapel pin. “Why Fluttershy?”

He retreated, sat on the edge of the desk and folded his arms across his chest. “Rarity, I’ve lived longer than you can imagine, but I’ll do my best to explain this succinctly. Sadly, for a great deal of my life, I was trapped in a stone prison. But, since becoming the Spirit of Chaos, Fluttershy’s Equestrian double is the only being I have ever encountered that has convinced me to change my behavior. Your friend, the two-legged Fluttershy, is doing a masterful job of confirming that I made the right decision to come here to atone for my past boo-boos by helping Sunset.”

“She’s quite taken with you, Discord, and she knows nothing of her pony counterpart. Fluttershy’s heart is fragile, and you’ll have at least five angry girls to contend with if you harm it!” warned Rarity.

He ran a hand through his dark hair and raised an eyebrow. “Point taken and I’m pleased you’re so generous with your advice. Now, it’s your turn. Why Sunset Shimmer?”

“You just had to ask that, didn’t you?” she groaned and began pacing the classroom. “This class was about the power of opposites upon one another, right?”

Discord nodded with understanding. “Yes, the power and the danger of fire and ice, light and dark, Mentos mints and carbonated beverages.”

“I’ve had to be so controlled and so precise as I build a future for myself and my sister. My inspirations have become almost rationed as I try to balance a business, the demands of high school and the unusual events of this school year,” explained Rarity. “Sunset, even before the Battle of the Bands, was so raw and full of potential, like an uncut diamond. I envied her freedom and her fresh start. Of course, she’s absolutely gorgeous, but to watch her lead us so magnificently the past few days... well, my emotions may have overloaded my brain.”

He grabbed her by both shoulders. “And then, to have that illusion shattered by the terrible person that she once was or could still be...” He stopped suddenly, bowed to Rarity and added a courtly flourish. “I think we both now thoroughly understand one another’s predicament in matters of the heart.”

“Indeed, Professor Discord.” Rarity donned her spectacles and smiled sadly. “What might I do to help you get ready for your fourth period performance?”

Big Macintosh clumsily downshifted as he turned on to the side street that led behind Canterlot High School.

“Dammit!” he swore loudly, but only partially at his driving.

The young farmer was certain that Granny Smith would have convinced him to remain home, but she was in Appleoosa for several more days. The seasons, even if difficult, were predictable and could be managed with proper preparation. Though only in his early twenties, Big Mac had handled late frosts, swarms of insects and even the occasional flight of fruit bats with his typical stoic determination.

Beautiful young women with magical abilities were another matter entirely. “I’m turning around,” he said for the seventh time. For the seventh time, he continued on his path to Canterlot High School.

“…you’re the only one I can trust to help me with this problem. I need you!”

The tone of Sonata’s voice and the thought that she had suffered a second beating this week had ignited Big Mac’s anger. As he pulled up to the back of the school and beheld Sonata, his anger exploded into rage. He yanked on the parking brake and leapt out of his truck.

“Oh my God, Sonata! How did this happen to you?” Big Mac rushed to the injured girl and gently lifted her off her feet. He carried her in his arms with little effort.

Sonata looked up into the young man’s green eyes and spoke in emotional, staccato bursts. “I told you that it was Adagio! I’m so sorry I had to whisper on the phone! She ambushed me! Oh, thank you for coming to get me!” She buried her face into his chest and wept.

Big Mac looked down at the girl in his arms. A jagged cut on her temple would probably require stitches to heal properly. The blood had dripped all over the red-and-brown shirt she was wearing. How did she get my shirt and why is she wearing it? No matter. That’s not important right now, because I have a curly-headed snake to find, he thought.

Sonata’s face, hands and arms were covered with ugly deep blue and greenish bruises. The right leg of her borrowed jeans was torn from pocket to knee, exposing another cut that ran horizontally across the middle of the girl’s thigh.

He laid her on the passenger’s side of the truck’s bench seat. Big Mac chastely kissed Sonata on the forehead, and when he opened his eyes, they were ablaze with vengeful fury. “I can’t stand to see you like this. What do I need to do?” he asked.

“You need to stop Adagio so she never does this to me or to anyone again,” replied Sonata firmly and evenly. “But, we need to hurry. I know where she’ll be in about forty-five minutes.”

He looked down at her sternly. “I can handle her myself. I need to get you to a doctor. Zodiac University Hospital is close to the aquarium…”

“No! We don’t have time for that! You’ll never find our hideout without me, so we must be together,” she pleaded. We’ll be together soon, my prince, the way we were meant to be, Sonata added silently.

Slamming the driver’s side door, Big Mac popped the car into gear and squealed the tires as he sped away from the school. “Just tell me where to go, Sonata. She won’t bother you again if I have anything to say about it.”

“It’s almost worth the tradeoff,” gushed Discord as he took another bite of his lunch. “The ponies can get their hooves on all these ingredients but only humans can properly make a good burrito!”

Rainbow Dash held her nose and laughed. “Just wait until it hits you, Discord. You’ll be the one who has to ride in the bed of the pickup truck when it does.”

“Where did you get that, anyway?” asked Applejack, raising an eyebrow suspiciously. “The cafeteria is a choice between bad and worse today, and it’s going to be terrible until Granny Smith gets back from Appleoosa.”

He wiped his mouth with a napkin and chuckled. “I’ll never give away my magical secret trick!” Discord winked at Pinkie Pie, who stealthily stuffed the last bite of a quesadilla into her mouth. Aria Blaze deftly concealed the keys to the Coltswagen Beetle with a notebook.

Sunset Shimmer entered the music room while stifling an enormous yawn. Her red-and-gold hair was flat against the left side of her head. Rarity and Fluttershy followed close behind.

“I have rescued us all from the horrific tuna casserole that they’re attempting to feed us out there,” said Rarity. She placed a dozen muffins and a bag of fresh apples on the music room’s table.

Rainbow Dash’s stomach growled loudly. She rolled her eyes and groaned. “Muffins again? It’s always either that or bagels with you, Rarity. I’m suddenly thinking about taking my chances with the noodle surprise in the cafeteria.”

Grabbing a huge cinnamon muffin, Sunset Shimmer smiled at the assembled group. “Thanks for buying us lunch, Rarity.”

“How was your nap, Sunny?” asked Fluttershy. She took a hairbrush out of her purse and handed it to Sunset Shimmer.

Sunset didn't answer at first, rubbing her neck and straining her muscles to work out some of the tension from sleeping. She started to devour the muffin and fix her bed head. Between bites, she replied, “It was good, but I'm still exhausted - I feel like I'm more wiped out than I would be had I not slept at all. I must have needed a break more than I thought.”

“It’s going to take a long, lazy week for you to get rid of those dark circles under your eyes, Sunset. You, more than any of us, have to be ready,” said Aria. She set down the bag concealing Chainbreaker with a metallic “clink,” and reached for a muffin.

Discord, wearing a snorkel and associated diving mask, was poring over the Aquastrian history book. He lazily but carefully turned each page. He spat out the snorkel, produced a clipboard from his jacket, and said, “This august gathering seems to be missing someone.”

Pinkie Pie skipped around the room to take attendance. She quickly counted on her fingers and pursed her lips. “Oh yeah! Where’s Sonata? Do you know, Aria? I didn’t see her in my third period history class.”

“I haven’t seen her since we first got here,” said Aria. She crossed her arms and frowned.

“She just seemed really strange this morning! It took her, like, forever to get dressed, and Sonata was so selfish. She wouldn’t let anyone else in the bathroom with her when she was getting ready,” explained Pinkie Pie. Her curly hair deflated a bit and she extended her bottom lip in a pout. “And, for all that, she comes out of the bathroom in a gray hoodie and jeans.”

Sunset snapped her fingers, causing Discord to giggle. She said, “Sonata mentioned something about returning a library book. I really hope that this is just a case of her being distracted by a shiny object or wanting to spend time with Apple Bloom and her friends. Still, we have to find her before school lets out because she doesn’t have a phone. Let’s go see Cheerilee.”

Applejack smiled. “Time for a little detective work. How hard could it be to find a tall, beautiful girl from another world?”

“Fluttershy, Rarity and I will continue to delight and entertain the student body, but I agree with Sunset,” he tapped on an enormous illustration in the Aquastrian book depicting a concert hall. Aria gasped and looked at Pinkie. Discord raised his eyebrow at them enigmatically and continued. “Sonata must be found. After reading this informative tome, I see that we were very foolish to leave her to her own devices.”

Sunset Shimmer crossed her arms over her chest and bit her lower lip. “Discord, I wish you weren’t right so often. I just hope Sonata’s okay.”

Sonata Dusk leaned against Big Macintosh as the venerable pickup truck sped through Canterlot and past the huge white building that housed Zodiac University Hospital. His green eyes were narrowed in fury and his knuckles white as he gripped the steering wheel with one hand and worked the vehicle’s manual transmission with the other.

Sonata moaned. “This hurts so badly, Big Mac! Hurry! You have to stop her from doing this again, because she’ll probably kill me next time.”

“Adagio has done enough damage to my family and friends. Her gall to ambush you at school just makes my blood boil!” he snarled in a threatening baritone.

Sonata closed her eyes and whimpered, but internally she was screaming with triumph. Her manipulation was working better than she had dared dream. Judicious use of the tools in the maintenance room had made her look like she had been thoroughly worked over by a furious Adagio Dazzle. In truth, the wounds were largely superficial but looked horrific to an untrained eye.

“Thank you for coming to my rescue, Mac. The others just aren’t able to protect me the way you can,” she wailed, nestling closer to the young farmer. She shifted the angle of her legs to expose a great deal of shapely, blue-tinted thigh to her “rescuer” through the cut in the jeans. Sonata noticed his eyes flicker over the cuts, bruises and muscle.

Sonata thought, The trick is to keep him angry enough to attack Adagio, but not so furious that he loses control. Little things work so well on young men. A moan or whimper fans the flames of his rage while a short caress or squeeze of his fingers reminds him of me.

The truck turned into the Canterlot Aquarium parking lot and Sonata guided Big Mac to park out of sight, behind the loading docks’ trash dumpsters. They got out of the truck and looked up at the rear of the aquarium, which from their angle was a forbidding concrete edifice. Sonata limped forward and said, “Good work, dearest. I think we’ve beaten Adagio here. Our hideout was beneath the aquarium’s shark tank. Let’s get down there first and surprise her!”

“This doesn’t seem like such a good idea,” said Big Mac, who was suddenly hesitant. He wrapped his arms around himself and shivered and took a step back towards the truck. “Let’s go get AJ and Sunset Shimmer.”

Sonata, continuing to play her role, sniffed and looked up at Big Mac with watery eyes. She laid a hand on his chest and nudged him back towards fury. “No!” she cried. “We have to stop Adagio before she gets away again! Just think of what she could do to Granny Smith or Apple Bloom!”

The comment about his family blended with the false tears, superficial bruising and dried blood, and stirred the young man’s anger once again. “Eeyup. This ends here.” He clenched his fists.

“Thank you for protecting me. She’s so dangerous and unpredictable, so be ready for anything. I’ll lead you to our old hideout.” Sonata kissed Big Mac on his cheek and wrapped her arms around him.

As they navigated the dark tunnels beneath the aquarium, the Siren turned and reached back to grab the farmer’s hand. She led him through the twisted paths to the abandoned lair. Big Mac gasped as he saw Sonata’s glowing pink eyes.

When he noticed Sonata turn her head in his direction, he said, “I’m just a bit startled... If I didn’t know you, I’d be a mite frightened of those glowing eyes.”

“They help me see in the dark, my dear, and are nothing to be scared of,” she squeezed his hand, which was becoming cold and clammy. “We’re nearly there.”

The pair clambered over a set of water pumps and entered the hideout. Sonata released Big Mac’s hand, shuffled to the central table and flicked on the battery-powered lantern. Pale white light illuminated the room. She noticed the items on the table and before her companion’s eyes could adapt, she quickly pocketed the money, the disposable cell phone and the note addressed to her that lay on the table.

Sonata turned and smiled reassuringly. “Is that better?” The silence was punctuated by a hiss from the relief valve of an overhead steam pipe.

The young farmer jumped at the unexpected noise, then calmed himself. “That’s much better, Sonata. Thanks. I’m not so good in the dark,” replied Big Mac, who continued to blink his eyes rapidly as they adjusted to the small light source. “You lived here?”

Tossing her blue-streaked ponytail, she knelt on the floor next to her bedroll and rifled through her possessions. “Not for long. We were never in one place very long. Yes!” Sonata exclaimed as she found what she sought.

She dragged the olive-drab seabag containing her possessions across the floor and held an object close to the lantern. A homemade brass bracelet, reinforced with iron, dully reflected the pale luminance. Sonata rotated the broad metal band and traced a symbol lovingly with her fingers. A pink heart fashioned from a piece of rose quartz was affixed to the brass bracelet, with turquoise inlaid atop the design. The bluish-green stones formed a musical eighth note with a jagged stem.

“Coral Aegis, after today, I’ll finally be able to wear your gift openly,” Sonata said to herself and slid the bracelet onto her wrist.

Big Macintosh raised an eyebrow and his deep voice took on a skeptical tone. “Sonata, it seems to me like you’re getting your things and making an escape. Where’s Adagio? I thought we were going to stop her before she could do any more harm.”

A sinister female laugh issued from a dark corner of the lair. Glowing magenta eyes, framed by flowing orange curls, emerged from behind an enormous steel pipe. “I’m right here, Sonata. Though, I must wonder why you brought this… male… to our reunion. Was he the one who struck you? If so, I can certainly arrange for a fitting punishment,” seethed Adagio.

“Get her, now! Save me from Adagio, Big Mac. She’s hurt me so many times. Take her hair ornament!” pleaded Sonata. She spryly ran and hid behind the young farmer, placed a hand on the small of his back and gently pushed him forward.

He took a menacing step forward and clenched his fists. “You’ve hurt my sisters and my friends. I’ll make sure you end up in jail for what you’ve done to Sonata.”

“Jail’s too good for her. Beat Adagio into the floor, like she did to me! Do it, Big Macintosh! Get her!” urged Sonata.

Big Mac, his passion stirred once again, took several menacing steps towards Adagio Dazzle.

Adagio’s throaty laugh seamlessly merged disdain and bemusement. “Temper, temper! Sonata, this muscle-bound shark of yours may swim himself right into a nasty accident.” With a flick of her wrist, Sunset Shimmer’s knife appeared in the Siren princess’ hand.

“Whoa!” exclaimed Big Mac as the dim light made the four-inch length of sharp steel glitter.

The Siren princess caressed her long orange curls and tapped the hair ornament with her free hand. “At long last, your desire to be my equal and jealousy that you’ll never be Aquastrian royalty has gotten the best of you,” she mocked. “Oh dear! We’ll never have the chance to paint together again. I’m heartbroken!”

“I’ll be better than you ever were. I’ll start by making him a prince and making sure that his family and his farm get the authority and respect they deserve for taking me in and being so kind when I make mistakes,” proclaimed Sonata. She stood tall beside Big Macintosh and gave his bicep an affectionate squeeze. “If you give up now, you can settle for exile.”

“Exile? To where and by whom? I don’t see Starswirl the Bearded or even Twilight Sparkle hiding behind you. Are they concealed in your torn jeans? Your scatterbrained kindness is almost heartwarming as you plot to have me beaten to a pulp. You didn’t think this out very well, did you?” said Adagio sarcastically.

Big Mac tensed at hearing the spiteful insults hurled at Sonata. He growled, “Knife or not, I don’t like the way you’re talking to her.”

Sonata gripped the young farmer’s arm more tightly to keep her hand from trembling. “I care for them and want to protect them! Just like you always said, I will take away the burden of choice from the Apples and use the Master’s power to have them live in peace and happiness with me in charge.”

Big Mac ran a hand through his light orange hair in confusion. “What are you talking about, Sonata?”

Ignoring the interruption, Adagio countered. “The Master doesn’t work that way, Sonata. Forget this nonsense and unroll your sleeping bag. Have your fun down on the farm, and then dismiss him so we can talk about how you’re going to help us return to Aquastria. I’ll even retreat behind the pipes to give you some privacy... unless you had a different idea,” Adagio pointedly looked the young farmer up and down and licked her upper lip.

“No!” screamed Sonata in jealousy and frustration. “He’s mine! Big Macintosh, take the crown from her head. Attack her, now.”

Big Mac looked at Sonata, at the knife in Adagio’s hand and then back to Sonata. The bruises and her furious snarl contorted her normally beautiful features. He started to speak and then clamped his mouth shut.

Adagio took a step forward towards Sonata and Big Mac. She narrowed her magenta eyes and assessed the bruises scattered across the blue-tinted skin. “Poor, misguided, deluded Sonata… For centuries, you truly thought that all you need to be a princess is a crown. You couldn’t be more wrong.” Her gaze shifted to the brawny farmer. “It’s time for some unpleasant truths. Johnny Appleseed, I didn’t do this to her.”

“What?” replied Big Macintosh incredulously. Sonata furiously spat a word in an unfamiliar language.

Adagio put the knife away and put one hand on her hip while clenching the other into a fist. “Oh, I beat Sonata so badly that Aria had to pull me off of her before I did any permanent damage.”

“Kill her! Kill her now!” shrieked Sonata, tugging on Big Mac’s arm with both hands.

Adagio continued, ignoring the hysterics. “But, I administered that beating last Saturday night, when this peasant had the insolence to suggest that we were nothing more than human!”

Sonata collapsed to the floor and covered her face with both hands. The shadows danced across the design on the bracelet that her twin made for her long ago.

“That doesn’t explain the cut and the bruises. She told me that you came to school and hurt her,” said Big Mac. A frown creased his handsome features and he folded his powerful arms across his chest. Sonata sobbed at his feet.

“Oh, Sonata! You were so consumed with plotting your little one-man coup that you forgot to give him the exposition. As always, I’ll give you some help since you seem particularly distraught at your failed takeover,” cooed Adagio. Her voice dripped with false, patronizing sympathy. “So, Master Dirt Merchant, there are three of us here. If you didn’t hurt Sonata and I didn’t hurt her, who does that leave?”

Big Mac’s head darted down towards Sonata. “You couldn’t have done this to yourself, could you?” he asked in disbelief. Shocked realization dawned on his face. “You did!”

“Don’t, Adagio! Leave him out of this,” begged Sonata.

Adagio sneered at the other Siren. “Oh, he must listen. He wants to listen. It’s part of your punishment. I came here to ask for your help against a greater threat, but after such a cowardly attempt against me, you deserve more than one kind of pain,” she turned to Big Mac. “We are Sirens, the chosen of He Who Swims in Darkness and have lived for more than thousand years. Sonata has lived twenty lifetimes and is certainly no virginal teenage girl. Before your sister and the Rainbooms destroyed our pendants, we fed ourselves and our Master from the negative emotions of others. Can you guess who was best at finding ‘food’ for us?”

Sonata shrieked. “She never tells the truth! Don’t listen to her!”

“Silence, peasant! Endure your punishment with the dignity the Master would expect from his chosen,” ordered Adagio. She looked at the muscular young farmer, her voice an authoritative crescendo. “That quivering ball of tears at your feet is an expert at worming her way into any cracks remaining between two people deeply in love. She’d pick the least resilient of the two – man or woman – exploit their vulnerabilities and take them to her bed. The explosion of emotion from these betrayals would feed us for weeks!” Adagio tut-tutted and shook her head. “I pray you haven’t joined the legion of notches on Sonata’s bedpost, Big Macintosh.”

The farmer looked down at Sonata in stunned disgust, and took a step away from her. “I know Adagio’s telling the truth, just like you were telling me the truth about Cheerilee’s medical troubles. You’d better come clean now, Sonata.”

Despondent, she tried to respond between sobs. “I care about you, I truly do! I want to be part of your family. Once you were mine and I took the crown from Adagio, I was going to find a way to make it up to you.” Using her sleeve, Sonata wiped away tears from her eyes and the mucus streaming from her nose. “I’d make things right! I didn’t want to lie, but it was the only way I saw to have it all and be happy here in this world. I was just so scared you’d all say no! I’m sorry!” She collapsed once again, her cheek flat against the concrete and shoulders convulsing with guilt and woe.

“How sentimental, Sonata,” Adagio sneered. She strode past Big Macintosh and gave Sonata’s prone form a humiliating nudge with her boot. “The spider, consumed by her own desires, suddenly feels bad for the fly snared in her web.”

Adagio’s insult struck home, but Sonata’s tears were spent. She stood and jabbed a finger at Adagio. “All I ever wanted was for you to be my friend – to go back home and sip kelp tea at the palace and for you to tell me I was good enough. Instead, for hundreds of years, I’d go out and do what was needed to feed us. Then, all I’d get in return is an insult from you and a sideways compliment from Aria. Stop treating me like I’m stupid!”

“Then why do you do such stupid things, Sonata?! Whenever you’re alone, you do things I can’t explain. You tell our secrets to attractive authors. Instead of creating divisions to satisfy our magical hunger, you starve us by bringing soldiers together!” Adagio removed her hair ornament, transformed it, and placed the darkly glittering tiara on her head.

Both Big Mac and Sonata gasped in unison at the royal device atop the orange curls.

Adagio continued. “As I’ve told you many times before, we are Sirens! But I am more than that. Because my mother must be long dead by now, I am the heir to the Aquastrian throne – a throne I have just learned does not have a mermare seated on it! It is my duty to take you and Aria, my supposedly loyal subjects, back home so that we can cast out the faithless, guide the lesser races and the weak clans who are lost without us, rule beneath the seas, and carry out the will of He Who Swims in Darkness! We have one last enemy to defeat in this world that prevents me from assuming my royal title and associated duties,” she intoned regally.

Big Mac raptly observed the confrontation. I should let them hash it out and get back to the farm. I can’t see how this concerns me. But, wait! I have to see this through to the end. Even though she lied to me, Sonata’s still hurt.

The only warning of the outburst to come was a dangerous flash of Sonata’s lilac eyes. She bared her teeth in a vicious growl. “Was it your mother’s duty to murder my father where he swam? His only crime was to love me, in defiance of the Queen’s laws!”

Adagio screamed a vile insult in response to Sonata, but her head swam with the shock of remembering…

“Bring me this Sonata Dusk as the third and final mermare to be given to He Who Swims in Darkness!” ordered Queen Blinding Dazzle, gesturing with a crimson fin to her guard captain.

Focused Blaze saluted. “Yes, Your Majesty.” With a stoic nod, she directed a phalanx of guards to carry out their monarch’s will.

“Adagio, perhaps you have a song that could capture the importance of this moment? I was thinking something about a destiny decided and the need to make a sacrifice now to have untold riches later,” said the Queen. Her golden eyes narrowed enigmatically at her daughter.

Princess Adagio Dazzle glared at the Queen and lazily moved her purple-streaked fins. She rose from her small throne and suddenly stopped.

“No! You will not harm one scale on her body!” howled a voice.

A merstallion guard held a spear in his fins, preventing the phalanx from leaving the throne room. His lilac eyes were wide with fear and rage. Adagio could see the spear trembling in his grasp.

Focused Blaze swam to the distressed merstallion. Adagio’s keen ears heard her whisper. “Don’t do this, Dusky.” In a loud commanding voice, she added, “Put down your spear, fool. Perhaps Her Majesty will spare your life for this insolence.”

His eyes softened for a moment. “I’m sorry, Captain. I love her. I love them both. But, I knew something like this would have to happen.” Dusky Defense tightened his grip on the spear. “I won’t allow the Queen to give my daughter to the Great Betrayer! She’s meant for so much more than to be your sacrifice.”

Adagio hovered over her throne. She thought, A male, still believing he has a duty to the merfoals he was permitted to make? To declare his love? How quaint and how tragic.

Enraged, Blinding Dazzle sped from her throne. “How brave and how utterly stupid!” A dark aura enveloped the great obsidian crown dominating her head. “Your courage, however misplaced, warrants some form of reward.”

Tendrils of darkness sprang forth from the crown and entangled Dusky Defense, binding him to the throne room’s floor. The spear rolled away, and his struggle against the magical bindings was futile.

“I will be avenged! There are others like me!” shouted Dusky Defense in defiance. He looked at Focused Blaze in a final appeal.

The guard captain and Princess Adagio Dazzle exchanged shocked, helpless looks. Adagio thought, Why is Mother doing this? She could use him to get information or subvert his will to the Master. We must know why he is neglecting his duty and disobeying us!

The Queen floated over the merstallion and removed an obsidian dagger from the crown’s central spire. “I trust the others will be more competent. As promised, for your courage, I will grant you the privilege of a quick death and an eternity serving Leviathan!”

The merstallion spat defiant curses at his ruler until the end. Muttering an incantation, Blinding Dazzle took the dagger in her right fin and plunged it into Dusky Defense’s chest.

Adagio snapped back to the present within the bowels of the Canterlot Aquarium. Slowly and patiently, she asked Sonata, “After all we’ve been through, and after ten centuries of banishment, you are allowing this to divide us now?”

“Couldn’t you feel the magic in the rainbow as it washed over us? Didn’t you feel the change in yourself?” asked Sonata. “Or, can all you feel is our magic slowly bleeding away from us now that our heart-pendants have been shattered?”

Big Mac hadn’t moved for several minutes. His mouth was hanging open in bewilderment as he watched the two Sirens discuss matters far beyond his comprehension.

Adagio shook her head. “Of course I felt it, Sonata, but this is now my last chance to carry out my duty to you and all mermares! This bleeding won’t stop until we reawaken He Who Swims in Darkness and He restores us. We are His chosen and it’s our obligation to serve Him and re-establish the Empire. We will take revenge upon the alicorns and their pony subjects! But, first, I need your help to trick and then destroy the banshee that threatens us all. Aria is unparalleled in a fight, but you’re the only one that could possibly frustrate and fool Shrieking Raven.”

Sonata looked at Adagio and then at Big Macintosh. She fidgeted with the borrowed belt that had three apples on the buckle. “Shrieking Raven?” Her eyes widened in realization. “Raven, the literature teacher, is undead!”

The revelation caused a wave of nausea to crash over Big Macintosh. His knees buckled and he struggled to keep himself from vomiting.

Adagio, terrifying and beautiful in the dim light, beckoned with her right hand. “Come, Sonata, serve your Queen. With a small sacrifice that I will prepare for tomorrow night, we will become true Sirens again, betray Raven and go home at last.”

“No! I won’t serve you ever again!” screamed Sonata. She clambered over a pipe and disappeared into the tunnels.

Big Mac bolted after her. “Sonata! Wait! I can’t find my way out!”

Adagio furiously taunted Sonata before following them. “You are a coward! A little merfilly! You always have been and always will be craven. I offer you a path home and this is how you repay me? The farmer won’t have you now, not after I exposed your lies. I should just let the magic drain from you and watch you grow old and die, but that would make me a very poor Queen to you.”

Big Mac, after numerous bumps, bruises, twists and turns, finally caught up to Sonata. She was holding a fire axe in both hands in the dim passageway. Behind her, the glass door to a firefighting station hung open. The hose was piled on the floor and the red-painted brackets showed where the axe was normally stowed.

Mac crawled over a huge water heater hooked into a massive network of water, natural gas and steam pipes. He cursed as he burned his hand on one of the attached steam pipes. “What the hell are you doing, Sonata?” he asked angrily.

“Running away. I’m getting out of here and making sure that I don’t hurt anyone from Canterlot ever again!” she answered. The axe shook unsteadily in Sonata’s hands and tears ran down her face.

The young man winced as he noticed that a burn on his forearm was severe enough to raise a blister. He said, “Sonata, I’m so angry at you that I don’t know whether to hug you or toss you from the top of the Apollo Tower. But, if Pa told me anything before he died, he told me that running away from your problems only makes them worse!”

“Oh, you’re not getting out of here that easily, Sonata!” said Adagio menacingly, halting any further discussion. She emerged on the other side of the heater, her path presently blocked by pipes and machinery. “I need you. Your Master needs you. We’ll find Aria and all three of us will destroy the banshee. Of course, that is unless you’re too cowardly to fight for me once again. Your failure against Starswirl the Bearded is why we’re in this predicament in the first place!”

Sonata threw the axe at the machinery with every bit of strength she could muster, narrowly missing Big Macintosh. “I’m not a coward!” she screamed.

Adagio, seeing the axe twirling towards her, dove back into the dark passageway as the sharp tool ruptured a steam pipe, the natural gas supply line, and finally embedded itself in the pump’s motor. The machinery hissed, sparked and choked. Big Mac shoved Sonata towards the tunnel’s exit, shouting for her to run. He turned back towards where Adagio had dexterously retreated.

Suddenly, a spark from the compromised motor caused the natural gas to ignite. The whole assembly violently exploded, with Big Mac taking the brunt of the fiery, shrapnel-saturated blast. He howled in pain yet somehow kept his feet to stagger back towards Sonata and the exit from the aquarium’s labyrinth.

In a complete reversal of the earlier situation, Sonata supported the brawny farmer as they emerged into the sunlight of the aquarium’s loading dock and made their way to the concealed truck.

He moaned in pain with each step. “Why, Sonata? Why?” Big Mac asked over and over.

She reached into his pocket, retrieved the truck keys and guided him to the passenger seat. In the light, Sonata assessed the young man’s injuries. Her mouth grew dry and her stomach spun.

“Oh, my prince! I need to get you to a doctor. This is way beyond what I can manage!” said Sonata.

Big Mac had the wherewithal to shake his head and frown. “Don’t call me that ever again, Sonata. I’m really tired of your lies right now.”

As she started the truck and slid behind the wheel, Sonata tenderly looked beneath the shreds of the farmer’s shirt. His chest and stomach were covered in steam burns and numerous cuts from the exploding machinery. When she reached his shoulders, Sonata gasped.

“You’ll be fine, Big Mac. I’ll get you to the hospital right away. Just don’t move your left arm unless you have to,” she instructed, struggling against tears.

He groaned, “Why the left side? Everything hurts.”

Be brave, Sonata. Be brave and don’t run away, she thought. As she clumsily dropped the truck into gear, she said, “I’m so sorry. This is totally my fault. Just stay still.” She took a deep breath. “You have a big chunk of metal through the meaty part of your left arm and it’s bleeding all over the inside of your truck. Just hold on for a couple more minutes.”

As Sonata gripped the steering wheel, she noticed that Big Mac’s blood had dripped onto her bracelet. The once beautiful pink heart with its inlaid turquoise design was now tarnished with smears of red.

Author's Note

My deep appreciation and sincere thanks to this chapter's team of editors and prereaders: IsabellaAmoreSirenix, SerenaAveline and EstrellaEssentia! I'm grateful for the tweaks and the feedback as the meeting between Sonata and Adagio took shape.

After penning this long-awaited confrontation, I don't have much more to add! I eagerly anticipate your feedback and sincerely hope you take the time to drop a comment to let me know your reaction to the events of this chapter. Thank you very much!