The Opening Act

(Two Days Ago)

Canterlot Castle.

Second only to Cloudsdale in terms of height, it is the highest place any non-winged being could reach without the aid of either a balloon or advanced levitation magic.

Designed by both Celestia herself and the Giraffe race of 'Zebrica', the castle in its grand entirety was designed to give both a sense of awe and wonder as well as strength and power. Whether the latter was intentional by Princess Celestia or simply an aesthetic choice by the architects, the Princess's home instilled insignificance in all who gazed upon its marble walls, as if the castle itself stood for how powerful the Princess had truly become in comparison to the minuscule individuals that would enter and leave each day.

Now this wasn't to say the Princess intended her home and place of work to be this way, most likely it was due to the tall stature of the Giraffe designers, yet when one takes into account that it was Princess Celestia herself who requested the largely Zebrican workforce from 'Hoofzambique', her true intentions are once again drawn into question.

Being a Pony within Celestia's less than humble abode was, daunting, if nothing else. All the walls and windows, every hallway, every door, it all seemed so unnecessarily ostentatious.

'Do the Princesses really need this much space?' thought Spitfire, as she made her way across the grand marble hall toward Princess Celestia's throne. Sure the Princesses were taller than most other Ponies, but they didn't exactly require the amount of space this castle seemed to have in abundance. Some design choices did make sense, such as the arched stain-glass windows to let in more light. Overall though, the whole castle was simply imposing, as if to say 'I had it built this big because I could!'.

Design wise, the throne room didn't make much sense either, the Wonderbolt Commander could understand the need for the extra cushions on the throne, considering that was where the Princesses conducted most of their business, but was there really a need for the added water features? The hoof-woven silk tapestries? The Camel made rug from 'Camelu'? Either these were some very generous gifts, or Princess Celestia just loves to flaunt her wealth.

Then again, Spitfire had never been one for interior design. Being the only Pegasi in a Herd of Earth Ponies, Spitfire didn't really care for the glitz and glamour that Canterlot spews from every nook and cranny; rather she enjoyed things kept simple, only throwing on what she called her 'Canterlot Face' when she was forced to attend a charity function or the gala and of course, visiting the boss Pony herself.

The sound of shouting caught Spitfire's attention. Two well dressed Ponies, a Green Earth Pony and a Crimson Pegasus threw insults each others way, much to the Princess's apparent chagrin.

Atop her flawless marble throne sat Princess Celestia with two white Pegasi guardponies stood at her side as well as a blue Unicorn at the bottom of the throne steps. The Solar Princess watched on as the two Nobel Ponies argued, the guardponies however didn't seem too concerned, if anything they appeared to be enjoying the show. Spitfire trotted over to a nearby support beam to wait, far-be it from her to interrupt politics at work.

"... Greenfield, you're proposition would cause a sizable backlash to businesses and travel across all of Canterlot!" said the Pegasus.

"Redwing, the mages at Canterlot University have been studying this phenomena since last winter! We have sound evidence to prove..." The Earth Pony began.

"D-D-Don't quote your self-proclaimed facts to us. The one true fact in all this is that there is no definitive connection between magic and the natural environment!" The Pegasus countered.

"No Connection?! I don't know if you've looked at the Canterlot Gardens these last few months..."

"Ah yes, flowers and trees. A popular topic of conversation amongst your lot..."

"And just what does that mean!"

"Gentlecolts Please!" said Princess Celestia, "I will not have this disagreement dissolve into petty insults. Now tell me once more, nice and clearly, what exactly is the issue here?"

The two Nobel Ponies fell silent; Princess Celestia was to many across Equestria, especially Canterlot, like a mother. Her opinion, be it good or bad was always held in the highest regard.

"W-well your highness, Minister Greenfield here and his Herd believe in the absurd notion that our using magic to 'Wrap-Up' winter in Canterlot is having a negative effect on Canterlot's environment. Naturally these ideas of his are utterly unfounded and..." The Pegasus began.

"They are not unfounded! Princess please, my Herd and I, as well as the mages in my employee at the University, have found evidence of magical decay in the water supply! Old magic, Princess! It explains why the pH in the soil has been off for the past year, possibly longer. Our recent tests with the water support our theory." the Earth Pony replied.

"Oh yes your theories. That magic used by both the Unicorns and Pegasi to clear away winter quickly in and around Canterlot, has somehow polluted the environment. Tell me Mr Greenfield, if this 'crisis' as you call it, the source of which is supposedly our magic. Then why is it that this is only coming to your attention now. Both my Flock and the weather Ponies of Canterlot have used magic to 'Wrap-Up' winter for years, yet only now is it a problem? I find that hard to stomach!"

"Minister Redwing, our studies of the local flora indicate a slow but steady build up of magical residue. In simple Ponies terms, it is the static left over after a lightning strike. We believe this build up has only now reached a level in which its effects are at last becoming noticeable." said Greenfield

"But Minister Greenfield, magical decay is an event which only becomes even remotely harmful after centuries of build up, and even then most natural magics, such as the forces you and I wield every day, dissipate naturally before a build up can occur." Princess Celestia interjected.

"Precisely your grace. I mean really, Magical decay! In other words, Necromancy! Do you know why magic decay only occurs in crypts, Minister Greenfield?" asked Redwing, a smug grin plastered across his face.

"(Sigh) Because of the deceased's natural magics leaving their persons and joining that of the others within the crypt."

"Then how is there an 'alleged' build up, because of a 'yearly event'?" said Redwing

"From what we've been able to deduce, something may have accelerated the process. I believe it would be wise to manually clear away the winter weather by hoof and monitor its effects upon the water and soil... Admittedly this acceleration is purely speculation at this time, however a full investigation should yield..."

"There you have it Princess. Baseless conjecture from the Earth Pony traditionalists, most likely this is another attempt to incorporate more of their unsophisticated views into Canterlot society. Like at the Gala two years ago, when he gave some Earth Pony the go ahead for a food stand."

"Minister Redwing, that is enough. Your Flock may hold much sway among the citizens of Canterlot, and I am grateful to you and your heritage. But it is I who passes judgement on disputes such as this, and I will not condone intolerance or bigotry, especially not when it is right in front of me." said Princess Celestia, wings flared as she rose to her hooves.

"This entire dispute is a waste of both our valuable time. If Minister Greenfield here should get his way, it would be a tremendous expenditure for both Canterlot and the Court. What he suggests is a study taking place for the foreseeable future, the cost of which would come from both the annual budget and the tax payers. If word of this were to get out, they'd be protesting in the streets, or worse!" said Redwing, his wings also flared.

"Princess, we're talking about the safety of everypony in Canterlot!" shouted Greenfield.

"We'd be risking public opinion and millions of tax-payers bits for an investigation into a theory with no real backing, scientific or otherwise." Redwing retaliated.

"Silence! Both of you! Minister Redwing, I appreciate your concern for the budget and our taxes, however all expenditure and finances fall to the Blueblood Guild. Your Flock is responsible for weather management and our relations with Cloudsdale and the Pegasi community. That is all." said Princess Celestia, Redwing made to respond, but Celestia cut him off.

"And Minister Greenfield, while I commend you for your dedication to the environment and the Ponies of Canterlot. I am afraid, without sufficient evidence, the risk this potential backlash poses is far too great. Bring me proof of this acceleration of magical decay, hard evidence that supports your findings and I will be more than happy to give your Herd the go ahead."

Minister Greenfield looked downtrodden, Minister Redwing on the other hoof was outraged.

"Princess, you're actually considering this?! This has to be the most ludicrous waste of resources that has ever been brought before the crown. Minister Greenfield, I will be informing the Blueblood Guild of this immediately, don't be surprised if they pay you a visit!" said Redwing as he turned and headed for the main doors.

"(Sigh) As per usual, the lofty ideals of the Pegasi outweigh the hard work of the common Earth Pony. Thank you for your time Princess." Greenfield bowed to the Princess before headed out the main doors as well.

The Princess of Equestria sighed as she watched the Nobel Ponies leave. Her expression soon changed to a smile though as Spitfire approached. Spitfire shared the opinion of most every other Pony that has ever met the Sun Princess, a smile from her was like a smile from a mother, so warm and inviting it always left anypony in a good mood.

"Commander Spitfire, I am pleased you could arrive on such short notice," Celestia waved away the two guardponies that stood either side of her, both shot a confused look at one another before blowing and trotting out the entrance nearest the throne. "We have much to discuss, my dear friend. Sunny, would you kindly brew a pot of tea for myself and my guest, with honey and lemon if you please. I will be entertaining in my study." The blue Unicorn stallion, whom Spitfire assumed was a butler judging by his clothes, bowed before trotting past Spitfire in the direction the guardponies had taken. A round yellow sun with a blue crescent moon in the middle adorned his flank. Spitfire watched as he left, strange cutie marks had always peaked her interest, they always belonged to Ponies with the most interesting stories to tell.

Instinctively Spitfire remembered who had addressed her and sank to the floor in a respectful bow. Whilst the Princess had a motherly feel about her, there was always this underlying sense of raw, barely concealed power lying just beneath the surface. Most everypony believed that Princess Celestia would never intentionally abuse her power, or turn it upon one of her subjects. But when somepony has the ability to move the sun itself, every day, it was difficult not to seem at least a little intimidating.

"Princess, I left the academy as soon as I received your summons, you said in your letter you..."

"Had need of your skills in regards to an important task, yes. But first..." said Celestia, waving her horn in the air a golden aura surrounded the pair, around them both the scenery changed from the throne room to that of Celestia's personal quarters. Not even remotely dazed, the Princess took a seat on one of the large lime green cushions that had been set near her fireplace.

"My apologies, I had to be sure nopony could eavesdrop on us, especially with the state of the company I keep these days, you understand." said Celestia, motioning for Spitfire to take a seat.

Settling herself, Spitfire was reminded of the many times in which she'd summoned trainees to her office, looking up at the authoritarian in front of her, she wondered to herself if this this was how the academy recruits had felt.

"Permission to speak ma'am?" said Spitfire, smoothing back her mane.

"Proceed."

"Well... What exactly do you mean by, 'the company I keep'?"

The Princess sighed, staring off into her lit fire place.

"Tell me Commander, what do you know of Equestrian politics?" asked Celestia. Spitfire rubbed behind her ear with her hoof, it always irked her when a question was answered with another question, something the Sun Princess did All. The. Time. Sure the Princess had her secrets, she'd ruled over the land for centuries, it was only natural. But as Spitfire's years in the royal service had taught her, the Princess always had the big picture in mind, always a few steps ahead in whatever long game she had planned. Heck, secrecy probably came with the job.

Then again, who was Spitfire to judge. Whatever duty the Princess performed, in whatever plans she more than likely had locked away in her head, they'd kept Equestria safe since before the Tree of Harmony had first been discovered.

"Well you're highness. I know you and your sister move the sun and moon... obviously. And that you govern all the lands within Equestria's borders. While Princess Cadence rules over The Crystal Empire and The Frozen North and Princess Twilight commands the Elements of Harmony, yourself and Princess Luna have final say over the laws, land agreements and decrees across Equestria. Pretty much, you and the other Princesses make the rules, but Princesses Twilight and Cadence answer to you... right?"

"Indeed. However, while I and my sister may rule Equestria in its entirety. It leaves us very little time to handle the day to day struggles of Canterlot. Because of this, around two hundred years after my sisters banishment, when the construction of Canterlot was nearing completion, I offered the six families who aided my project with overseeing both Canterlot and its relations with other Equestrian settlements whilst I was preoccupied with other matters." said Celestia

"Six families? You mean the Parliment of Canterlot?"

"I do. They are the direct discendents of the Ponies I gave the offer to, so many years ago. Originally they were... The Blueblood Guild, an intelligent Unicorn family with unparalleled Accounting skills and buisness acumen. The Redwing Flock, a pure blood Pegasi family with a lineage that can be traced as far back as the original founders of Cloudsdale. The Greenfield Herd, a widespread Earth Pony family with a vast array of resources and hoof-power to match. The Cadenza Flock, a traveling Pegasi family that preached love and kindness wherever their travels took them. The Lulamoon Guild, great inventors and mages actually responsible for the design and construction of the original Canterlot express and rail line. The finally there... was, The Shimmer Guild. However, after the disappearance of their daughter... (Sigh) one of my former students, the family vanished without a trace, no pony has heard from them since. Hence why the 'Sparkle' Guild has since taken their place. Together they are my royal council, and I dare say Equestria would not what it is today without them."

"So they run Canterlot, whilest you handle the bigger problems, ones that affect all of Equestria." Said Spitfire.

"Correct. However, my relationship with the council families has grown steadily worse over time. Lately the council leaders have grown bold in their actions across Canterlot and beyond. It has reached a point where in they no longer seek my approval of their plans, rather they merely use me and my sister as tie breakers in their disputes. And it is for this reason, that I have summoned you here this day." said Celestia, looking down.

"But, your Princess Celestia. You've ruled over Equestria for longer then all those stuff shirts and their fore fathers combined. Surely they can't actually do anything on a large scale without your say so."

"Most anypony would be inclined to agree with you. Unfortunately word about town, from both common Ponies as well as hushed words amongst the guards continue to cement my fears. If these rumours are to be believed, the council no longer view me as the rightful ruler of Canterlot."

Spitfire's mind suddenly flared into over drive, the Sun Princess would never idly chat about something this serious. If what she was say was true, then that could me only one thing... A political uprising. An attempted take over of the throne.

"I have had my own suspicions for a while now, just recently the Greenfield Herd has reportedly been making plans to anex a portion of Ponyville's 'White Tail Woods' for a new mining site. The Lulamoon Guild have entered into talks with the Blueblood Guild with plans to increase the cost of travel to and from Canterlot by train. And of course there was that little dispute you witnessed downstairs."

"Princess, if these rumours are true, if the council is exceeding their jurisdiction and abusing their positions that we need to act now. Swoop down and arrest the lot before any serious is taken against you directly." said Spitfire, about to rise to her hooves, however Celestia beckoned her to remain seated.

"That, I'm afraid, is something we cannot do. The council's grip upon Canterlot is near absolute. They are responsible for the finances, the water, the food supply, the transport, and our relation with settlements across Equestria. This nation as we know it would grin to complete halt, should the Parliment be removed from power. In the time it would take to replace them, the Equestrian economy would collapse and the Ponies affected would revolt. Not to mention the council is also involved deeply within Equestrian Society, all six families have social ties that reach far back in Equestria's history." said the Princess

" So if we actually manage to arrest them, we would be making enemies from Equestria to who knows where." said Spitfire, rubbing her head in thought. Behind her the blue Unicorn from earlier entered through the chamber door, levitating a tea tray complete with tea pot, cups, spoons, and all the nessesery ingredients, at least by the Princess's standards. The Unicorn bowed to the Princess before excusing himself out the way he came in.

"That does seem to be the case. However, there maybe a hidden opportunity beneath all of this. Despite the hearsay of the Canterlot elite, I do not believe at all parties are involved." said Celestia, pouring tea for the two of them.

"You may have to elaborate, Princess." Said Spitfire, taking her tea cup in her hooves.

"I don't believe for a moment that either the Cadenza Flock or the Sparkle Guild are even remotely involved. The Cadenza Flock migrated to the Crystal Empire sometime last year and conduct all Canterlot buisness via letters, and as for the Sparkle Guild, they are responsible for the Canterlot Educational system, not to mention one of their own is like a daughter to me. I do have some concerns as to their parenting skills, otherwise, they have been nothing but loyal and devoted to the crown for many years." said Celestia, taking a sip from her cup.

"So you're saying that only the other four families are involved?" Asked Spitfire. Princess Celestia shook her head.

"Probably not even that, most likely some are simply abusing their status to achieve their own ends. Yet talk of my being unfit to rule, coupled with this troubles me. This is why I have summoned you, Commander Spitfire. I believe one or more of the council families is plotting against the crown. I want you to track down the guilty party and bring me evidence with which to convict, with concrete proof and enough time, I may be able to halt any potential threats towards myself and the other Princesses."

"Wait, what makes you think the other Princesses would become involved?"

"If the families believe I am unfit to rule then the logical step would be to have me... removed. Now my sister and I have lead this nation for long enough, that any none Alicorn atop the throne would be discredited almost immediately as a pretender. But if there were no other Alicorns to take over the mantle leadership, what other choice would the populous have? I cannot risk any potential harm coming to Twilight or the others, she... They, are too important." said Celestia. The last part caught Spitfire's curiosity, but only for a moment, the Princess probably misspoke. Spitfire swore internally, she was used to high profile missions from the Princess, but usually those came down to flattening a horde of invading 'Boars' with several tactical Lightning Strikes. Not espionage and political leaders plotting regicide.

"Princess... I don't understand. Why me? I command the Wonderbolts. I'm not exactly inconspicuous, everypony knows my face."

"Which makes you the ideal choice. You are a neutral party. If one of the families is planning a coup, then they would require all the supporters they could muster and a high profile figure such as yourself would garner much attention and admiration. Also as a celebrity of Equestria, you would be a welcome guest in almost any social event which the families are liable to attend or host." said Princess Celestia. Rising to her hooves, she trotted over to the balcony doors, gazing out across the stretch of Canterlot and the surrounding valley.

"As you may know Commander, in one months time Canterlot will play host to the two-hundredth annual Grand Galloping Gala. The night in question will be one of national importance. Not only is it the anniversary of Equestria's first victory against the Changeling Swarms but also it will be the first gala attended by not only myself, but Princess Luna, Princess Cadence and Princess Twilight at the same time." said Celestia.

Spitfire had to shake her head, she knew all too well the threat the Changelings posed to Equestria. She'd been one of the first responders at the 'Battle of Canterlot'; The entire city, aside from those attending the Royal Wedding inside, had gone completely silent, save only for a steady rhythmic pulsing hum. Above the Unicorn capital, a long black shadow made up of thousands of insect like Ponies swarmed across the sky, blocking out the sun with a wave of humming black bodies. That's when everything exploded. Groups of ten or so Changelings attacked the city in droves. The guardponies did their best to fight back, but we're swiftly outnumbered. Family were dragged from their homes. Children imprisoned within those slimy green cocoons. It was like a living nightmare, and all on Princess Cadance's special day.

"When all four of us close out the gala at the stroke of midnight, It will be remembered throughout the Realms as the moment Equestria stood tall and proud, as a nation united. Across Equestria and possibly beyond, all eyes will be fixed squarely upon Canterlot," Princess Celestia's face turned to one of direct seriousness, "This night must pan out exactly as I have planned. Which is why this situation must be dealt with before that night. Do you understand?!"

Spitfire gulped, she was starting to think the pressure was finally getting to the Princess.

"Y-yes ma'am. You can count on me, I'll find the ones responsible. If nothing else, I'll find evidence that proves the council has been overstepping their boundaries." Said Spitfire, rising to salute the Princess. Celestia's expression softened, her smile returning.

"That is very good to hear, Commander. I will have one of your understudies fill in for you at the Academy. I wish you the best of luck and hope for a swift resolution to this dilemma. My advice would be to begin with the Greenfield Herd. It is my opinion that they are the least likely to be involved out of the four. They are in the midst of performing an agricultural survay around Ponyville this week. To the best of my knowledge, a number of the more influential family members will be there."

"In that case, your highness. I'll fill out the paperwork in the morning and fly into town the same day." said Spitfire

"Why not simply take the train?"

"Well, a certain Princess let slip that ticket prices are going up... And I can exactly get on a train anymore without being buried under a mountain of screaming fans and love struck stallions."

Princess Celestia let out a quite chuckle as Spitfire turned to leave herself.

"Just a moment Commander. While you are in Ponyville, I must urge you to keep two things in mind. One is that you are on vacation, not working for me. And the other... Princess Twilight and her friends must not find out about any of this. Understood?!" Said Princess Celestia, looming over Spitfire like a mountain made flesh and fur.

"Yes Ma'am!" said Spitfire turning to leave. But just as she reached the door, a thought occured to her.

"Your highness? What tipped you off about this situation anyway?" Spitfire enquired. The Princess had returned to her seat, a picture frame from the fireplace, nestled within her forehooves.

"(Sigh) Well, if you must know. The Redwing Flock were responsible for the guardponies that were supposed to safeguard my niece, Princess Cadance, during the lead up to her wedding. Instead, my neice was capture, imprisoned and replaced by a Changeling imposter. Whether this was intentional or not is unknown. However, when the time came to question Minister Redwing and his Flock, the Changelings from our dungeons had vanished and the evidence of his hiring the guards was, allegedly, lost during the invasion."

"Wait... Are you honestly implying, The Redwing Flock was in league with the Changelings in an attempted takeover?!" Said Spitfire, stunned.

"Indeed I am. And now I fear, a mere two years later, that history threatens to repeat itself. Only this time with a different outcome." said the Princess, absentmindedly stroking the top of the picture frame in her hooves.

"Have no fear ma'am. I promise you... On my honor. I will find these traitors to Equestria and bring them to justice. You have my word." Said Spitfire. The Commander saluted once more before leaving through the door.

Xxx

Celestia sighed to herself. If only she could have told Spitfire the whole truth. But the time wasn't right and from the looks of things, the Commander had enough on her plate already.

Looking down at the picture in her hooves, the soft childlike smile of a young purple Unicorn filly greeted her. Celestia smiled once more, placing the picture back on the mantle piece with her magic.

"Don't worry Twilight. I'll keep you safe. Once the Gala has reached it conclusion, you will finally fulfil your destiny," The Princess flared her horn, her magics extinguishing the fireplace.

"A mother only wants what's best for her child."