Chapters *Crystal Empire 17 Years later*
“ So tell me hun why are we talking about Celestia?” Twilight asked taking a drag of her cigar before it was taken by Cadence.
“ Twilight I told you not to smoke those here. Besides this is really important.” Cadence said putting the cigar out as her wife groaned tapping her hoof on the ground while both mares looked at Winters.
“ The situation in Equestria is deteriorating quickly. Battle lines are being drawn once more in Equestria.” He said as Twilight looked at him uninterested.
“ I don’t see what this has to do with us. As long as it doesn’t spill over into our nations then I don’t see what the problem is.” Twilight sighed.
“Twilight, you need to understand that if fight-” Winter was cut of with a laugh from Twilight.
“What they would try to invade here? Please. We would have at least a three day advanced warning with our border guards. If you’ve forgotten Cadence shut down the borders to Equestria as soon as the fighting broke out. The way I see it, Equestria is not our problem.” Twilight smiled.
“Weather or not it is a problem now, it can and will become a problem in the future, each one of the generals who broke away and formed their own nations has the potential to become extremely powerful and far more of a danger to all of our nations, if they successfully conquer equestra. If we don't do something about this now, the next generation may have to deal with our mistake.” Winter said looking at the mare.
“ If we didn’t put the fear of the gods in them in the last war we’ll be more than prepared to deal with them this time as well. I say let the Equestrians deal with their own problem. You’re not the prince of the world, not every problem is yours. Besides with yours, Cadences, Spikes, and Chrysalis’ armies one single army can not beat us all. Let Equestria deal with its own problems.” Twilight said reaching for another cigar only for it to be taken by her wife.
“What did I say?” Cadence asked as Twilight pouted.
Winter only shook his head, “Let me ask you some questions Twilight, what if we weren't allies when one of these generals invade? What if we each suffer from some calamity or another and our armies aren't prepared for them? None of us know the future Twilight, simply because we won one war without much difficulty doesn't mean we will another. Do not forget, part of the reason we had the advantage in the beginning was because all of their forces were inexperienced and ill prepared for the horrors of war, that wouldn't be the case next time.”
“Maybe so but like you said what makes you think that they would invade at all? None of us know the future at all. I just don’t see why we should get into another war when we have been at peace for so long. Besides that it’s also up to the people if they want to commit to this course of action. If you want to Winter then I have no say in your kingdom, just like I have none in my wifes. But I will give my opinion and I’m sure Chrysalis and Spike see no gain in this if we step in.” Twilight said leaning on the table looking at both the leaders.
Winter let out a sigh, “You are correct Twilight, I will not dispute that, but we also need to think about the innocents caught in the middle of all this, are you saying that we should ignore their suffering? Simply look the other way and say, ‘Its not my problem?’ Is that in anyway just or even plausible?”
“ Yes. Like I said Winter it’s not our problem. If Luna can’t handle the position of ruler even with your sisters help then I don’t see anything else we can do. It’s not our problem Winter. But if you want to commit troops to Equestria’s problem go ahead.” Twilight shrugged.
Winter raised an eyebrow at that before saying, “ And what about you? By your own words, why should I or Cadence have helped you in your war with Celestia? On your own you stood little chance of even holding out, while you did have the advantage of experience and hardened troops. They would have been severely outnumbered and virtually surrounded. Celestia may have killed a citizen of the crystal empire, but when you look at it from your perspective, couldn’t I and Cadence have simply said. ‘Its not my problem’ and looked the other way and ignored the conflict altogether? So tell me, what is different this time around? That it isn’t you?”
“Yes you could have, but you didn’t and even if you did I had other plans as well. There is only so much they could have done. Besides that your armies were mere distractions during the war. My forces completely overwhelmed Celestia’s armies full of inexperienced children. While the war would have been a bit more longer, in a war of attrition she would have lost out. But as I say again I have no say in your countries matters Winter. I’m just giving my perspective.” Twilight said smiling.
Winter couldn't help but laugh at that, “Its nothing short of incredible how much sense you make at times Twilight, a part of me even completely agrees with you, But I only wish that you would consider helping us in this mission, part of the reason this happened is because of our war, we placed Luna on the throne alone and her actions caused this conflict. But turning a blind eye to this may cause serious political consequences for all of us, history is written by the victors.
Winter took a breath before continuing, “But this time we are the victors and history may remember us as the causes of this conflict. I won't try to change your mind if you refuse this last time, but I wish to ask you this. If my nation was torn apart in civil war, would you come to my aid? If Cadence’s was would you come to her aid? What of Chrysalis? But above all, what if your nation was caught in the grips of a civil war that you couldn't win on your own? Cadence and I wouldn't hesitate to come to your aid, but would you come to ours with your way of thinking?”
“Of course I would. One Cadence is my wife so that would be a no brainer, as for you and Chrysalis you are my allies so I would rush to your aid. But the big word there Winter is allies. I owe nothing to Equestria, weather it burns or not is not my problem. As for helping you I already told you that if you’re looking for my blessing you have it, both of you. I’m retired now. I don’t command anything, anymore.” Twilight looked over at her wife before hopping off her chair and headed for the door before turning around.
“ If you do this I’ll see if I can talk to the others but my hooves are off the table if they don’t want to help then I can’t do anything else. Cadence I’m going to take the children out for a while. I’ll see you at dinner.” With that she left leaving the two leaders to discuss the matter more.
Winter had a look of both admiration and irritation on his muzzle.” She has a very strong will and her heart is definitely unquestionably strong as well, but sometimes I wonder if the only one she'll listen to is herself. I can respect her without question, but still, sometimes I wonder.”
Winter looked over to Cadence and said, “ It is a shame that she won't truly support us in the traditional sense, And I don't think either of us are willing to try convincing Spike. So there is still the obvious question, have you told her about Celestia’s place in our plans yet?”
“Um… No.” Cadence said sheepishly.
Winter let out a sigh, “If you dont tell her and she finds out on her own she will be even more upset Cadence, you need to tell her. Not to mention she won't know that Celestia has changed from the mare who hurt her back then, What do you think her reaction will be to us supporting Celestia out of the blue? Shell think that Celestia is controlling or influencing us if were lucky.
Cadence looked down as her ally sighed, “At worst shell try and kill Celestia, and that could have horrific consequences for the whole world, its honestly a miracle that she didnt 17 years ago. To this day, I don't think she realises how important those two to the balance of our world, Raising and lowering the sun and moon without the proper experience and skill could destroy or flood cities, and thats the best case scenario. Talk to her Cadence, it won't be easy, but only you can do this.”
“Ok I’ll talk to her when she gets home. Are you sure this is the best course after everything that has happened?” Cadence asked looking with worry at where her wife left.
Winter looked away from Cadence and closed his eyes and took a deep breath before saying, “I've met her Cadence, I've looked into her heart with my own eyes, the mare we united against died a long time ago. All thats left now is a guilt ridden and regretful pony. I think that shes ready for a second chance. If she begins to show her old self again, we will deal with her permanently if necessary.”
” I hope that you’re right Winter. I’m sure that no matter what we say Twilight will not help us when it comes to Celestia. The mare looked at her like her own mother. A part of me can understand that but another wants to believe that my aunt is back to her old caring self like when I was a filly. I just hope that this is the right choice.” Cadence said looking down.
Winter looked down as well before saying, “So do I Cadence, So do I.”
*Later that night*
“Cadence what do you mean that you’re helping CELESTIA of all ponies after everything that happened all those years ago!?” Twilight was seething as she glared at her wife.
“Twilight, we have to help them! You have to put the past behind you!” Cadence tried to reason with her wife as the purple mare glared at her.
“ Let it go? That is the one thing I will never be able to leave in my past. What on this green earth made you decide to HELP Celestia? You know the mare that kind of exiled me, killed someone special to me, planned to kill my son, along with every citizen of Forgotten. Just to have me back under her hoof.” Twilight growled as her wife glared back.
“Yes I remember Twilight. But if we’re going to move on we have to forgive the past.” Cadence tried as the other mare looked like she was about blow at any minute before a calm look came over her face.
“I will NEVER forgive Celestia for what she put me and my son through Cadence and if you think that I will support this decision you are DEAD wrong. So if you want to help your plotting aunt and send troops on her behalf after we ALL decided that she be removed from power and only be around to HELP Luna which it seem since this has happened didn’t happen may just show that your aunt didn’t take it to kindly.” Twilight said as Cadence recognized that look. She was talking to the Boss now and would have to tread very lightly.
“ Twilight. Things have changed in the last 17 years. My aunt isn’t the same as she once was.”
“Oh how so? From the way I see it she’s up to her old tricks again. Tell you what Cadence, support your aunt but support the right one. While you figure that out I’m going to be taking the kids to see Chrysalis. Give you some time to THINK on what you’re going to do.” Twilight said as she watched the alicorn shift in her seat.
“I’ve already made my decision Twilight. I’m going to help Celestia.”
“ Alright…. Then I think this would be a wonderful time for us to take a break. I think you need to do some soul searching and when you find who is more important. Me or your traitorous aunt come find me.” With that the mare teleported away leaving the alicorn to think.
*Two weeks later, Solstice Kingdom*
Celestia paced nervously. She had come to Solstice for help, though she believed completely that she would receive none, so she was surprised when Prince Winter agreed to see her. That had been a week ago, when she'd arrived. Now was the time when she was supposed to meet with the Prince, so she had come early, and as a consequence was now a nervous wreck.
"Celestia, for the last time, Prince Winter is not going to harm you. He gave his word, did he not?"
Field Marshal Stormcry, the leader of Solstice's entire military, had been with her for the past few hours, and had been trying to calm the former Sun Princess, but to no avail.
"It's not that I don't believe, you, Marshall, it's just that Prince Winter and I weren't on the best of terms when we last met."
"Celestia, Prince Winter is known for his mercy. While I agree he has given you too many chances already, I also believe that you have it within you to change for the better, as does Prince Winter. Ah, here he is now."
As if on cue, the white coated, grey maned stallion known as Prince John Winter entered the Throne Room,
"May I present Prince John Winter." Stormcry announced.
"Thank you, Stormcry," stated Winter, "You may leave us."
With that, Marshall Stormcry gave a curt bow before exiting the hall through a side door. Once he left, Winter turned his attention to Celestia.
"Celestia, it's been far too long. Ten years, right?"
Celestia simply nodded, not saying a word."Well, fear not, my good Celestia, for I have forgiven you, and have decided to give you one final chance," Winter said, "I will aid you in your efforts to reclaim Equestria, as will Cadence, who has already agreed, though she has not forgiven you your folly against her ponies. I think General Arcturus and the 3nd Royal Guard will make a fine addition to your forces."
"I....thank you, Prince Winter," Celestia said, taken slightly aback.
"Celestia, we both know that you can be a better ruler than you were," encouraged Winter, "However, it is only in you, and you alone, to do better.".
Celestia was in utter shock. She had never expected Winter, one of her oldest friends, to grant her forces.
"I am....very grateful," Celestia managed, "Almost beyond words."
"Think nothing of it," Winter said
"Princess Luna needed your advice, and consciously ignored it, as well as the advisories given by General Flynn of the 2nd Royal Guard. Still, I've sent the 4th Royal Guard to her aid. I hope that I can bring you and her back together to rule Equestria again because, let's face it, even with my help. Equestria never stood a chance of holding together with only one ruler. Even with the mistakes you've made, you had held Equestria together and ushered in an age of prosperity, ending only with your own mistake. You always accepted my council, which is why I am granting you my forces."
Celestia was shocked at this, before saying, “And…..Twilight? There is so much i have to say to her…” Celestia hung her head in shame, full of regret.
Winter Shook his head, “I am sorry Celestia, she will not be joining us.” Celestia took a deep breath before saying, “I understand, I will do everything in my power to live up to the faith you have placed in me...Even though I dont even know if I'm worthy of it. But this isn't about me, its about Equestria.” Winter nodded before saying, “Let us hope that what we do will create a future, far better than the one we have now.”
Celestia gave a small sad smile before saying, “Yes let us hope.”
Author's Note
I do not own MLP, Wish i did.
(One month later, Solstice capital.)
Winter walked into The Solstice Grand, a posh hotel located on the lowest Citadel level. It was one of the most renowned hotels in Solstice, used by executives and guests of the Prince and Princess. Winter had lodged Celestia here for her stay in Solstice, as The Solstice Grand was also regularly guarded, even if no VIPs were present.
"Which room is Celestia in?"
"Prince Winter," the bellhop said, "We were told you'd be coming to see her. She's in Room 205, Second Floor."
"Thank you."
"Don't mention it. She seems rather depressed as of late. Perhaps a visit from Princess Cadence might cheer her up some."
"Hmm," Winter considered, "that is actually a pretty good idea. Could you send word to Field Marshal Stormcry for me?"
"It would be my pleasure, Prince Winter," the bellhop said with a nod before hurrying off to perform the task given to him.The elevator ride to the Second floor was short, as usual, and Room 205 was quite close to the elevator. Gingerly, Winter stepped in front of the door and knocked.
"Who is it," came a voice from the other side.
"Prince Winter."
"I was alone, for an eternity," Celestia said. The mood was most certainly poor. Her mane and fur seemed paler than a few days ago, as of something was sapping the life from her, and faint red lines were appearing at the edges of her eyes. At this point, though, she seemed to be in her own little world.
"Tia-"
"The only other existence was darkness, which I was completely repelled from. Even if I spilt my own being and created others..."
Winter sighed. "Celestia, I've a-"
"It wasn't any different from simply speaking to myself. The animals crawling on the ground..."
Winter stopped completely. Celestia was starting to ramble, of course, but what she was starting to say was....disturbing.
"I prayed for the time when they could speak to me on equal terms. Yes..."
"Tia, what do you mean," Winter asked. This time, she looked at him.
"It all began with that wish. Hundreds of millions of years have passed since then."
"Wish," repeated Winter, "what wish?"
"Those on the ground now revere me as their God. And so I acted as the god they wished for. I forgot my reason for being lonely, and took on the role of a God. Before I realized it... I became dependent on their attention. Why did I desire them so? Did I simply want someone to talk to? Or did I truly wish to be a God over others? After this eternity of time, I can't remember my self. I must be a God. Because if I wasn't...Who would I be?"
As Celestia said that, Winter realized what she meant. She was talking about when she'd banished Twilight: how she felt about it. All those emotions she'd kept bottled up for the sake of her little ponies; her sorrow, her anguish, all were being released after so, so many years.
"If they forget their God, and don't require one any longer... Then what would I be? What reason does a Goddess have to exist, if she isn't wanted? A world that needs no God...I can't allow that...The meaning of my existence was wrapped up in the thought of being a god. Was it all a mistake...?"
At this point Celestia began to cry, falling into Winter's chest. Winter calmly placed a hoof on her mane and began stroking it. It was at this time Cadence arrived, but froze at the sight of Celestia crying, and her state.
"Winter, what's wrong with Celestia?"
Winter looked at Cadence with telling eyes. "She's suffering from old wounds that she's allowed to fester, but we can still heal them, in time. Cadence, I need you to find Luna and Twilight."
"But Twi-"
"I don't care," Winter said,
"She banished Twilight, which left a hole in her heart that she tried to fill in any way she could. She NEEDS Twilight, Cadence, whether any of us like it or not."
*Two weeks later. Forgotten City*
Cadence stood outside the door to Twilights private study and hesitated to open the door, nervous as to how Twilight would react to what she had to say. Cadence took a deep breath and opened the door to the study, to find Twilight relaxing with a book.
“ Hello Cadence. What do you need? I’m still upset with you.” Twilight stated as she turned a page in her book. Cadence could see it was the Book of Chaos that she was reading.
Cadence steeled herself for what was to come and said, “Twilight...I know you're upset-”
“ YOU THINK!? Of course I’m upset Cadence! You helping that traitorous bitch after everything she’s put me through would put me in a pissy fucking mood!!!” Twilight roared as Cadence stepped back from the outburst before the mare turned to look at her feeling like she was staring into her soul.
“Twilight, why is it so difficult for you to believe that Celestia has changed? Both me and Winter have talked to her and been around her. Do you honestly believe that we would even think about supporting her if we had even a hint of still being who she was?” Cadence asked very carefully
“ Would you forgive me if I banished you to a shithole in the middle of a desert, where you were raped, beaten, mugged and homeless day in and day out. Could you forgive me? No you couldn’t. You would hate and despise me with every fiber of your being. I don’t care if the creator himself came down and told me she was a good pony and had changed. As far as I’m concerned the mare should be roasted on the very sun she controls!” She growled making Cadence flinch.
“Twilight....I am not ignoring what she did to you, Winter isn't either. But you can't let the past cloud your opinion of the future. Yes you gave her and the elements and second chance and they betrayed you once again. Yes she sent you into exile and she caused all those terrible things to happen to you. But she knows this now Twilight and I highly doubt a day goes by where she doesn't look back upon what she did to you and have nothing but a deep feeling of regret. Won't you at least try to understand that while she may not be receiving the physical punishment she deserves, she definitely is receiving the spiritual and emotional punishment she deserves?”
“ Of course she knows she did it Cadence. SHE FUCKING DID IT TO ME!!!!!” Twilight roared as she burst into flames glaring at her wife.
“I can’t believe you’re sitting here trying to make me feel sorry for that MONSTER! I’m glad she’s going through mental anguish. I would LOVE to dish out the physical but I’d end of killing her and that would be no fun. If she regrets it so much then why did she do it in the first place hm? I hope she suffers the rest of her life. I can’t believe I’m having this conversation with you.” She calmed down a bit going back to normal as she turned back to her book.
Cadence had a strange look on her face. At first glance it would seem terrified, but if you looked closer, it almost looked a bit sad.
“What am I to you? Am I your lover? Your wife? Or just a pony you have strong feelings for?”
“ You’re my wife. What does that have to do with this conversation?” Twilight looked back pissed but confused.
Cadence sat down and said, “Because you're not acting like I am your wife right now. Ever since me and winter came to you with this, you've stopped treating me as your wife. Your treating me like i'm a subordinate of yours or a member of your family,not the mare you married. You're trying to enforce your will upon me without even realizing it, this isn’t a relationship Twilight, its a dictatorship. I Love you, with all my heart I do, but I feel like I have no say here, no freedom to choose my own path without you refusing to understand my reasons for it. Right now I can't even see the mare I love, all I see is the boss of the Forgotten City. If this is how you are going to act as long as I follow this path….How can what we have survive? You asked me whether or not you were more important to me than Celestia. Well now I ask you, which is more important, me and what I believe, or you and what you believe? Which is more important, hate or love?” Cadence’s voice became sadder as it went on, until the end where it almost seemed heartbroken.
“ I’m trying to enforce my will on you? Is that how you see me protecting myself from that mare? That monster that you’re related to? You know I love you with every fiber of my being. The path you’re following has led us to this. I was behind you with supporting Equestria but THIS!? You want to help a that mare after I asked you who was more important to you. I guess I got my answer. So you want an answer heres mine.” She walked up nose to nose with Cadence tears streaming down her face.
“My children. My love for my children. My love for my home. My love for this empire. My love for YOU!!! Yet you continue to want me to be within striking distance of that monster. WHY!!! Why do you keep asking me knowing that I can’t? I love you Cadence that will never change but what you believe in I don’t support. You see me as my old self hurts when you have pushed me to that. If I have to be the Boss so you can understand that I HATE Celestia with a passion that could rival her sun then so be it. So I ask you again. Which is more important. Your WIFE or your aunt?” She looked down panting as Cadence could hear her sniff and her tears hitting the floor.
Cadence tried to wipe the tears away, but was failing miserably before saying, “ I don't want to believe that you would actually say that, you're trying to force me to choose between you and my aunt. But….You ARE attempting to force me to choose, which is something you know that I can't do. I Love you, but you of all ponies should understand why i'm also supporting my aunt. Everypony or otherwise in the world deserve a chance for redemption. That is the only reason why I brought this up, but I don't need to make a choice, either choice I make is the wrong one. Your hate for her is so powerful that it truly does outweigh your love for me, I never thought that hate could be that powerful. If I choose to believe that my aunt, who did terrible things to the one I love deserves a chance to right her wrongs. I lose the Mare love the most-”
“I’ll do it.” Twilight whimpered as she held her wife her tears soaking her coat.
“I’ll do it if it makes you happy Cadence. But don't expect anything more. I’m doing this for YOU. You say your aunt changed, fine. I’ll go see her. But don’t expect me to forgive her or help you in this afterwards. I’ll see the beast but it better be chained and underguard. That is the ONLY way I will see her.” Twilight looked up at Cadence to show it was this or nothing.
Cadence nodded and said, “ Thank you, I'll make sure that Celestia will be unarmed and her magic sealed. But Twilight...The same must go for you. I dont want my aunt to die, not when she may have a chance, Please Twilight. I dont want to have you and her meet only for you to kill her in a fit of rage in her defenseless state.”
“I showed mercy on the battlefield I can show it again. But fine I’ll have my magic sealed and no weapons. But I'm serious Cadence. I want her in chains or no deal. A monster like her deserves nothing less.” Twilight said stepping away from her going back to her book.
Cadence looked down and said, “ I'll make sure of that...Somehow I don't think she would want to be in the same room as you without the chains on her either.”
Cadence walked out of the room and headed to the throne room as she felt the ground shake and a massive explosion go off making her turn to see a huge smoke cloud in the empty fields making her sigh.
“ I really hope that she doesn’t kill her with her own bare hooves. I guess that’s what the guar- We’re gonna need a few more guards with them.” She quickened her pace to get in contact with Winter.
*Three weeks later, Solstice Kingdom*
“So im to be in chains then? And have my magic restricted? Are you sure thats all? I don't know how I might react to what she has to say, I want to believe I've changed but...Who am I to make any judgements anymore? I personally think that being underground might be better, at least then you won't have to worry about burning or burying me, just collapse the chamber.” Celestia said, looking away in shame, unable to meet Cadence’s eyes.
“She didn’t specify that just the guards and you in chains. She agreed to have her magic sealed as well. The guards are more for your safety than anything.” Winter looked over the mare as she nodded.
“If she decides to try to kill me….We all know that an army wouldn't be able to stop her, magic or not. But...I need to talk to her, she at least deserves the chance to tell me how much she hates me, right to my face. But...Cadence, Winter...What I have to say back to her...I dont think youll want to hear this. Its not just personal but...If you hear this youll never look at me the same way again, in either of the two ways you have before.” Celestia looked away was being very vague in her wording,but something told both Cadence and Winter that what she said was very true.
A knock came to the door as Celestia was chained to the ground with them on each of her limbs wings and neck holding her in place.
“It’s time. We’ll do as you ask.” Winter said as they walked out and Twilight walked in. Celestia could already see the murder in the mares eyes along with untold amounts of hate that not even Sombra could hope to reach.
“Twilight…” Winter attempted to say, with caution in his tone, but was interrupted by Cadence.
“Winter we shouldn't be here, this is between the two of them, the seals on them are active and the guards are ready. What happens next, we have no say or place in what happens next.” Winter nodded at Cadence and the two of them walked towards the doors, Winter looked back in, hesitant to leave but quickly walked away when Twilight looked over to him. The doors shut leaving only Twilight, Celestia and the guards inside the room.
Celestia looked down at the floor, before saying, “ Twilight...What I have to say is...Difficult to say the least and I would like it if-” Celestia was cut off by Twilight grabbing her head and smashing it into the table, so hard it nearly cracked in half. Blood leaked down Celestia’s head but she was silent for a second before saying, “ I deserve far more than just that.”
“I wonder….” Twilight started as Celestia looked up at her from her position on the table.
“I wonder how much Claire BEGGED you for mercy as you sliced into her flesh and broke her laughing at her pain. You’re lucky they made me give them my dagger. Or I’d find out just how much I can make you scream and beg for death. It would be worse for you. You’re healing factor would only prolong your suffering at my hooves.” Twilight slammed her hoof into the side of Celestia’s head making her yelp as the blow dented the metal.
“ You are filth. If I had it my way you would be fed to Chrysalis’ hive and I would get a front row seat to watch you wither away. I may be bad or seen as a monster but I am a monster of YOUR creation. I am the way I am because of YOU. Did you plan to do that to me? I saw you a my MOTHER for god sakes! I trusted you! I believed in you! I LOVED YOU!! I looked at you and wanted to BE just like you! I would have done ANYTHING if it pleased you. But you betrayed me. You hurt my son, OUR son just to spite me?! I want to see your head on a pike outside my home and your body strung up for all to see what kind of monster you are and what kind you created. I guess in a why you were still teaching me when I got information from my enemies. But at least I didn’t keep going and make them suffer like you do.” Twilight growled from her position above the mares bleeding face from the blows.
“You can’t FATHOM the pain I and Spike had to go through to survive. I was raped more times than I can count in that cesspool. I was beaten along with Spike to the brink of death more than once. The fear of not knowing if some drugged out bastard would come to end you during the night plays with you mind.” She got a bit of a insane look on her face as she pressed down hard on Celestia’s head.
“ But I could. I could make you feel it if the damn seals weren't on me. I could make you live EVERY DAY as I did. FEEL every time I was raped or tortured because I was the only pony in the city. But I won’t, because at the end of the day. I’m better than you in that. I don’t see you worthy of sharing my pain. It’s mine and mine alone. You would sooner go insane from the first week let alone the first year. Eating from the trash and shitting where you sleep because you are to scared to go anywhere away from your safe zone. No that pain is mine and I’ll keep that pain. You can take joy in knowing that you caused it all. To a poor BABY dragon and an INNOCENT mare…….” She pulled back and sat down looking at her with a blank look on her face as if staring into Celestia’s very being.
“I should have killed you that day. You and your sister and taken Equestria as my own ruling with an Iron Hoof….. But I know Winter would have stepped in and Cadence wouldn’t be the mare she is today and mine….. You have no idea how much I cursed you and my family a painful death each and every night for 27 years.” She looked at Celestia who was nervous as she saw the mares eyes red like from when she last fought her.
“ Say what you have to say but I just want you to know that I don’t care if you were dubbed the saint of the world. I know the true monster that you are and that you made me.” Twilight said in a hollow voice as she looked at Celestia with the eyes of a demon.
Celestia then said, “ Are you sure of all you said? Because I would sell my soul, my flesh, everything I had...Just to go through what you did, just once. My past… Its...You can leave now Twilight. No matter how much horror and terrible things you've witnessed and seen and all of your experiences, I can assure you that you've never heard anything like what I will tell you. And a part of you will wish that you walked away right now and never heard this. Its not something I thought I would ever have to tell anypony...Tell me Twilight, I have two questions for you. One are you sure you want to hear this? And two, how old do you think I truly am?”
“ You want to know the truth I could give two shits about your age or your past. You think some little crusade you did or a few families you killed off is going to bug me? I wouldn’t be surprised if you were always a monster in a ponies body. It would actually make more sense. So go ahead tell your tale. I’ll be right here. But I will warn you. If you start with some little pity party of not getting enough of daddies attention then I will leave and I’ll bury you in this room.” She said face to face with Celestia before sitting back down.
Celestia looked down and then out the window at the sky before saying, “I was there, at the beginning, I don't know why and I dont know how I was created. I just...Existed, but…I was alone, for an eternity.”
“The only other existence was darkness, which I was completely repelled from. Even if I spilt my own being and created others…”
“It wasn't any different from simply speaking to myself, I don't know how long I was just there, a formless body of pure light. I began to doubt my own existence after a while, I had so many questions, but there was no one to answer them. I was Just...Alone. There was nothing except me and this oppressive Darkness that I couldn't even get close to. I was just...There.” Celestia looked over at the wall, before continuing.
“ But then...Something happened,A world, perhaps the first world came into being. And I saw them, small organisms, bacteria, plants all of them. They fascinated me and I tried to converse with them...But nothing spoke back, they could not hear me or even comprehend my existence. And I felt more alone than ever before, I was sitting there, watching them, for hundreds of millions of millennia at least but I had found something in that solace.” Celestia had a small sad smile on her face at that point.
“Peace, the beautiful plains of flowers, the sight of rain falling down and the cycles of the seasons, It was enough for me to see this and nothing else. I would have been happy. But then...They were destroyed by that Darkness, It forced me away from the only place I knew, I couldn't fight it. At the time I didn't know it was possible, but then...When I was alone again...I couldn't stand it. Being apart and just surrounded by nothing again...I couldn't take it, it was too much and so I returned to face that Darkness. I forced it away from my world and it fled into nothingness. But it was not gone, when I looked back upon the world I saw them, new creatures, replacing the old ones that were destroyed.”
Celestia looked distant now, as if she was someplace else. ”These ones grew, they evolved and for so long...I watched and waited as they grew, for so long I watched and waited. Thousands of years at least, but then they could speak, they could learn...They could feel and I was so happy...But then, I realised that I could not communicate with them, as before they could not comprehend me at all, let alone see me. And that….That was far worse than anything I had been through before. I wasnt alone, but I could not speak to those like me. I was...Nothing...For a long time, I simply wallowed in my despair, wanting so badly to be able to talk to one of them, feel one of them....Be one of them.” Celestia had saddened look upon her face now, it almost seemed...Empty.
“ And then one day, I don't really know how myself...I formed this body and I was able to touch, feel, smell, taste...But when I met them...They didn't accept me as one of them, no...They treated me differently, they bowed to me, never truly looked at me, they prayed to me, worshiped me, they even...Killed themselves for me and others….I was horrified that they could do such things. I did not understand at the time and so I left, feeling all the horrors that I had created.
But then after having secluded myself for so long...I realized what I did wrong, I did not guide them. I let them do as they pleased and so they became what they did, I saw their descendants fighting each other, for next to nothing, land here, water there, one of them died or went missing near the other group. It was all so insane, I realized that I had to do something and so I acted as the god they wished for. I forgot my reason for being lonely, and took on the role of a God. Before I realized it... I became dependent on their attention. I needed them...To even believe that I existed.”
Celestia looked down at the floor, with a strange look on her face, “Then came the tribes of Equestria, always in disputes with each other, always distrusting or hating each other...They needed help...They needed me and so… I united them, I told them that I would protect and guide them and so they followed me. I...Don't know when I realised it, but I know that one day I realised that I couldn't leave them. I was afraid, I couldn't go back to it...That loneliness...That empty void of existence, where there was nothing but myself. It was just...Terrifying to me, I wouldn't let it happen to me...I couldn't. I did..Evil things, I killed, I slaughtered, I butchered all so I could protect them...My little Pony’s. I don't remember when Luna showed up honestly, she might have been that darkness but...That Darkness felt evil, Luna didn't. But she was like me and so I called her sister until we both believed it.”
Celestia closed her eyes and took a deep breath rattling the chains a bit before saying, “But then after so many years...I started to let that fear guide and control me...I always thought that one slip up, one mistake and...Its back to nothingness. That fear eventually turned into arrogance and that arrogance turned into self-righteousness and a sense of superiority over all others. But then...there was you.”
Celestia looked up at Twilight before continuing. “You were just like me, curious, inquisitive, willful...I saw myself in you, at first that gave me pride, that I was passing on my knowledge to you, and then one day...You'd be like me, an immortal. That way, even if all was destroyed, I wouldn't be alone with just Luna or Cadence. I would have you, my equal, my greatest achievement. My ultimate success.But..When the wedding happened and you saw what I could not...I refused to believe it, that a pony an ordinary unicorn that barely lived as long as a fly compared to me...Could see what I couldn’t. And so I exiled you, I thought you were a failure. But then the invasion happened, and I realized that I was wrong. Me, a god, was fooled by a mortal. And then the fear truly took hold in my heart. I saw you as my greatest threat after that. You were proof of my mistake, I had many sleepless nights thinking that I would go back to that loneliness again. Then you returned, stronger, tougher, powerful. Dominant, hateful and I despised you, you were in my mind trying to be me. I was all those things once, and then you showed up...And when I looked at you, I saw a young me staring back. You were now a rival, an equal in your own right and that terrified me. I had to destroy you, make you my puppet, a slave, a student something...So long as you weren’t dangerous in my mind any longer.”Celestia let out a small sad laugh.
“ The war was a game to me, until you faced me in battle over Canterlot...When you fought me, fear beat at the back of my skull...’If she kills you, you'll go back to it, you’ll be nothing again. You can't let that happen.’ And so...I threw all I had at you, well...All this body of mine could handle throwing at you at least. But you took it all and fought back with a vengeance and that made me hate you more and more all up until...Until the war was over, when I realised what I had done to you, all because I was afraid….I just...I was disgusted with myself. What kind of goddess fears a mortal mare so much that she seeks to destroy them? What kind of goddess is so afraid of being alone that they destroy an innocent mares life? What kind of twisted monster...Has this goddess let herself become?” Celestia looked down in shame before saying.
“ That is all that I think about now, how pathetic I became. How much of a coward I was, scared of you...For no true reason. But even now at this very moment, I still fear that nothingness...That void I once lived in...I fear it so much that even though I can’t...Im afraid to die. I will not tell you I'm sorry or tell you that I didn't want to do what I did, because I did. But let me tell you one thing, I would give up everything I have, to have just a fraction of what you do. All the scars, the pain, the love, everything. And I would give up anything, to go through everything you did...Just so I don't have the memories of that loneliness, that nothingness...I would give up everything...Just so I don't have to remember my own past.” Celestia looked up at Twilight, before saying.
“ I hated you...Because you were beautiful to me. You were me, only far, far superior. You are me. And no matter what I do...I can't change what I am...But you? You can be anything, and that is the whole truth Twilight. I'm pathetic, a being that has been alive far, far too long and just can’t die...I’m just a bitter, regretful pathetic excuse for mare...And deep down...I'm not even that am I?” Celestia looked at her blood on the table before saying solemnly.
“Im nothing but a cursed monster. Doomed to walk the earth and all of existence...Forever.”
Celestia looked up to see Twilight staring at her if it could be her hate just seemed to burn anew as she saw the runes on Twilight’s body crack and break as the guards in the room feel to the floor passed out as the mare got up and leaned across the table looking right at Celestia eye to eye.
“So you fear being alone and the darkness?” Celestia saw a cruel smile go across the mares muzzle making her pupils shrink at what this mare was saying.
“Then maybe I should banish YOU to eternal darkness. To reflect on your decisions of eons passed……” She leaned in as their horns rubbed against each other and Celestia could see the mares eyes as that evil presence that she had long thought was gone came back and sent a chill down her spine as the goddess seemed to shrink into the ground.
“I’m sure that it can be arranged. After all... “ She smiled as a book that she was reading before she came here. A book that Celestia hadn’t seen in a millenia appeared in the mares magical grip.
“I’m sure I can arrange it.” Twilight smiled sitting back down.
Celestia looked, at Twilight scared out of her mind, before saying.
“I do not fear the Darkness Twilight, I fear the loneliness...But, as I said before I do not want your forgiveness or anything from you, but you need to understand this... I am not like you, no matter how powerful you are...You can never destroy me, never truly harm me. You cannot send me to that Darkness because I am light. They cannot touch, not without catastrophic consequences. I do not expect you to understand...No being in existence can...But maybe, I have can make YOU understand.” Celestia closed her eyes and focused her will on her mind until she felt her mind and Twilights meld, allowing Twilight to see her past and feel what she felt. Celestias words echoed through both of their minds before saying.
“Know me.” And Twilight felt strange, like she was somewhere,but there was nothing...Just this emptiness and Darkness. She tried to summon her magic, but she was cut off from her own body and unable to summon any power.
Celestia could feel the mare fight for a quick second before panic set in. She waited for a while when she felt Twilight go deeper into her memories her own mind. She could feel her watch curiously as she watched the first organisms come to life before being snuffed by the darkness. She felt curiousness from Twilight as she did something she never thought of.
She embraced the darkness. She made it her own and accepted it as she dove deeper into her mind. Watching each and every memory she experienced and she could feel an understanding swell in Twilight while Celestia felt another presence beckoning Celestia to come.
She did and was pulled into Twilight’s own memories. There she experienced the horrors that Twilight did. Felt everything that she did, saw everything she did. The betrayal she felt at the trial, the hurt and the image she had of herself shattered when she hurt Spike. The disgust she felt with herself after her first rape and the questions and wishes of death for it all to end as the beatings and rapes became more until she was broken…. A shell of her former self until she took her first life. The very first one to violate her.
The realization and horror of what she did before Celestia felt the mares mind crack and a sudden calm came over her as she headed back to Spike.
Celestia saw her rise to power, the execution of many hundreds and the slaughter of any that stood in her way. The massive range of emotions that traveled through her when she saw her brother and friends, her parents, Cadence.
But for her there was nothing. A void itself when her eyes laid on Celestia.
As Celestia experienced the hell Twilight went through. Twilight could feel the fear of Celestia’s past self the fear of failing, the fear of loneliness, the fear of the darkness and then the arrogance and pride of a young Twilight and then jealousy and hate to her. She sensed no regret for years before she saw herself again in the Crystal Empire to sign the fake excused banishment form. The cleverness she felt when Twilight came back willingly to try to make amends and the joy carving up Claire.
She could feel the hate return when Twilight fought her to the very end and then regret…
Regret of the past. But still her own hate persisted more so at herself than Twilight. But there was still hate for Twilight but more regret. As she watched herself moments ago threaten to send her back to the void she felt the pure fear that gripped her heart when she saw the book of chaos.
Twilight sighed as they both exited their minds and Celestia looked at Twilight while Twilight stared at Celestia before standing up heading for the door.
Celestia then spoke, “I still stand by what I said before, I would give anything to have your past instead of mine...But now I think we both truly realise that there is more than one way to go through hell. I don't take back anything I said, but...Still, at least in your hell it didn't last to long and made you stronger. Mine...It was nothing but a seemingly endless one.” Twilight turned around and looked Celestia in the eyes, she stared for a second and said.
“You were right, a part of me does wish you didn't show me your past. The hell I went through was far more physical than yours, as far I cared, your hell was nothing compared to mine...Until I saw it through your eyes, felt what you felt. There is more than one way to go through hell. Yours was far more physiological… We both stared into the abyss and came out scared. I saw things I couldn't have imagined in your mind and you in mine. Im no fool, I'm not the kind of mare that will hold a grudge just to hold it. As far as I'm concerned the monster I hated is dead, but make no mistake. I might not hate you anymore or hold any ill will, but I will never be able to be friendly towards you.”
Twilight's eyes hardened before saying, “But If I see so much as a hint that the old you, that monster that turned my life into a hell is returning. I dont care if you are unkillable, I WILL find a way to kill you.” Celestia nodded.
“I hope that you do Twilight, I truly do.” Celestia sighed as she watched the mare take the book with her as she spared one last hard glare at Celestia before opening the door.
“Oh on second thought. If your old self comes back, I’ll make sure that you never escape your hell again. Death would be a sweet release for you. I’ll make you suffer the way I did and smile each day that you do.” With that she walked out letting her words seep into the mare who sighed and looked at the waking guards.
“Can I get somepony to uncuff me now? This is very uncomfortable” She said as a guard stumbled over to her.
*Saint Trottersburg, War Orphanage*
Fluttershy peeked her head around the corner very carefully. The hallway was very quiet, without even her mice friends making a sound. She noticed a small shadow shuffle in the door far down at the end of the hallway. She then started to move towards the shadow very slowly and carefully and made it so that she was behind it. She saw the small shadow stiffen and she unfurled her wings to maximum length and held her hooves up high and brought them down.
She gently tapped the shadow on its head and said, “Found you.”
“AH!” The young filly yelled as she took off through the hall with Fluttershy hot on her trail as they both laughed. Fluttershy kept her distance as the filly slid into the kitchen where many other fillies and colts were as they yelled for their friend to hurry just as Fluttershy scooped her up as the two laughed.
“Noooooo!” The filly yelled as Fluttershy began to tickle her before the others came to save the filly tackling the mare turning the tables on her.
“Oh my, it looks like you have me trapped. I surrender, you win this time everypony, but next time i'm going to win. But a promise is a promise. Ill make you all some nice cake for dessert for after dinner tonight.”
The foals cheered as they go off her and ran to go play besides the filly that stayed by her side as she got up. She was one of the orphans like all the others that were there from the Great War and the current Civil War. She had seen her parents die in the shelling of her hometown. After that day she never spoke but only to Fluttershy and was glued to her side at all times.
“ Ms. Fluttershy?” The filly asked very quietly.
“Yes? Is something wrong?” Fluttershy asked in a worried voice.
“No. I need to tell you something.” She motions for Fluttershy to come closer.
“Yes honey? What do you need to tell me?” Fluttershy asked very softly,close to the filly.
The filly jumped at the mare knocking her over making her squeak in surprise and fell back as the filly giggled at her.
After the initial shock wore off Fluttershy got a small mischievous smile on her face and said, “ Oh its funny is it? Well I dont think thats funny. I think THIS is funny!” Fluttershy then grabbed the filly and started tickling her. And said, “I'll stop when you say sorry for what you did.”
“Noooo! I’m sorry hahahahaha! I’m sorry!” The filly howled with laughter as Fluttershy blew raspberries on the fillies stomach.
“Sorry I cant hear you, what was that again?” Fluttershy said as she continued to blow raspberries on the fillies stomach.
The filly squealed with laughter as before Fluttershy pulled back smiling as the the filly panted giggling. She got up as Fluttershy went to make went to make some dinner with the little filly by her side as she pulled a chair over next to her to help.
After a while dinner was served as the children all gathered around to eat at the dining table while the filly took her spot by Fluttershy’s side.
“Now before we all start to eat, remember your manners, no yelling, no food fights And No trying to take other ponies dinner or dessert okay?” Fluttershy said, meeting all the young colts and fillies eyes.
“ Yes Ms. Fluttershy!” They all yelled before digging in.
*Later that night.*
Fluttershy gave the filly closest to her a kiss on her head and said, “Good night little one, sweet dreams.” The filly smiled and closed her eyes and yawned said in a sleepy voice, “Good night...Mommy.” Fluttershys breath caught in her throat and was shocked by this but small tears of joy started to form nonetheless as she went around and found that many other colts and fillies felt the same way towards her.
When all of them were sleeping she noticed one of them was missing, the filly who was always by her side. Fluttershy began to look for her before she noticed her bedroom door was open and the filly was crying on her bed. Fluttershy approached her slowly and asked, almost frantically “What's wrong? Why are you crying? Did you get hurt?”
“No I couldn’t find you momma!” She cried turning and rushing into her chest.
“Oh...Oh my, I was with the others. I was putting them to bed, I thought you were with the others too. Im sorry I didnt notice you werent. But don't worry I promise you Ill always be here for-” The filly cut her off
“NO!NO!NO! My mommy and daddy said that before! They told me that they would never leave me either! But then the loud boom came and….and… I can't lose you too momma! I can’t!” The filly sobbed into Fluttershys chest and Fluttershy hugged the crying filly close.
“ Shh,Shh. Its okay, let it all out. I won't leave you alone in this world. I wouldnt do that to any of you...No I couldn't do that to any of you. I WILL be here for you, for as long as you need me.”
“ You’re lying! My mommy and daddy said it and they never came back! Please don’t leave me. I’ll be good I swear! I don’t want to be alone again!” The filly sobbed gripping the mares chest while Fluttershy cradled her close to her.
“Shh, Dont think that right now. Don't ever think that again,
Hush now, quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now, quiet now
It's time to go to bed
Hush now, quiet it now, it's time to lay your sleepy head.
Hush now, quiet now, it's time to go to bed.
Hush now, quiet now, close your sleepy eyes.
Hush now, quiet now, my how time sure flies.”
The filly slowly stopped crying as Fluttershys song went on, until she was lulled into sleep and was resting peacefully in Fluttershys hooves. Fluttershy then pulled her blanket over the two of them and held her close as she felt sleep take over her last thoughts were.
‘She carries such pain inside. So do many others here, this is my life now. I have to help them, all of them.’
*Manehatten Colosseum*
In Manehatten a large arena was packed full of ponies cheering on the current spectacle. Many nobles and other members of high society were gathered near the edge, the best seats too see the spectacles that were occurring.Among them was Rarity, now showing signs of age, having grown a few superficial wrinkles and some gray spots in her mane next to her was a young mare, with a mane and tail of similar color.
The two of them watched the current championship battle, DarkSteel the current student of Celestia and the arena champion was facing 3 large and powerful stallions in heavy armor wielding heavy weapons. While steel was only in his lightly armored robes and a simple sword and shield.
As a horn was blown as they charged at the stallion. He smirked and sided stepped a mace, ducking a sword, and dodged a spear as he bashed his shield into the spear users face knocking him out cold from the heavy blow. He blocked the mace user and spun using the butt of his sword to hit him in the side of the head stunning him. Before Steel could move in for the knockout he was blocked by the sword user as they began to fight back and forth.
Dodging, ducking, parrying, and weaving around each others attacks as Steel saw the mace user start to get up making him grit his teeth. He spun around the sword stallions stab and got into his guard giving him a vicious bash with his shield before spinning and bucked him off his hooves breaking the stallion jaw as he hit the ground out cold.
He brought his shield up in time to block a heavy blow from the mace user making him skid back as his arm went numb from the shock. Steel grunted shaking his arm to get feeling back as the mace user charge and stood up on the hind legs swinging the mace like a baseball bat while Steel ducked and used his shield to bash the brute right under his chin as he flew in the landing in a heap and didn’t move.
The horn blew as the crowd went wild as medics came and checked on the stallions while the announcer called out Steels victory.
Steel smiled and held his sword up at the sky as the crowd started cheering his name. Steel then walked over the edge of the arena and took out a beautiful blue rose as he walked by the edge. Many young and beautiful mares held their breath as he walked by them and then he stopped by Rarity and her daughter, he used his magic and placed the blue rose in Rarity's daughters mane as she blushed furiously and looked away. Steel then smiled and walked to the center of the arena.
“ I hereby dedicate my victory in this tournament to lady Ruby, daughter of lady Rarity and name her the most beautiful mare in this arena.” Ruby was nearly red by this point in embarrassment and turned to her mother and asked her, “MOM! What do I do?! Everypony is expecting me to say something!”
“Well darling say something. The young stallion is waiting. Accept it, see where it goes dear.” Rarity smiled at her daughter who was even redder since her mother was hardly any help.
Ruby was on the verge of panicking and quickly said , “I hereby accept DarkSteels dedication and am very flattered that he finds me to be the most beautiful mare here.”Ruby could see that what she said wasn't enough and quickly added, “And I would like to say that I in turn find you to be far more handsome than those brutes you were fighting.” Laughter then burst out across the arena and Ruby looked to her mother for support.
“Wh-Wh- Why why are they laughing what did I say?!”
“ SILENCE!!! You would dare laugh at my daughters heartfelt words?! For shame you would down a mare for putting her heart on the line for love. You think you could come up with some amazing speech on the spot? Most of you are jealous that it was my daughter he chose! Be silent and respect your betters!” The whole stadium went silent as even Steel stared at the mares mother.
“ What? Nopony is going to make a fool of my daughter.” She flipped her mane grinning at her daughter.
Ruby stared at her mother and then noticed that many ponies in the arena also had looks of shame of their faces and said, “Thank you mom. Im sorry about what happened today Darksteel, I’m afraid I may have lessened your victory today.”
Darksteel only smiled and said, “I think not, honestly its nice to see that you have a strong mother. Most would stay quiet and let you handle this yourself. Besides Its nice to see somepony stand up to all these jealous haries that call themselves nobles.” Steel galred at many of the noble mares he walked past not 5 minutes ago.
“Thank you Lady Rarity, something tells me that you wore the pants in your marriage to her father..I apologize, it is rude of me to bring such a thing up here. May I come by you home later this evening?”
“We would be delighted to have you over. When should we expect you to come by?” Rarity asked smiling.
Darksteel thought about it and said,” I should be there around Sundown, as I have other duties as well. But to name time Id say around seven.”
“That would be lovely darling. I’ll be sure to cook something wonderful while you two talk.” She said as the two got with Rarity heading for the exit as the rest of the nobles cleared out while Ruby talked to Steel for a while.
“ I apologise for putting you on the spot like that. It was rather uncouth of me Lady Ruby.”
“N-No it’s ok. It all worked out in the end… So why did you choose me?” She asked blushing.
Darksteel smiled and said, “I already told you, I found you to be the most beautiful mare in the arena. And I find you even more so up close.”
“Thank you. You’re very charming. Um I hope I’m not being rude but… What’s Princess Celestia like? I’ve heard so many mixed stories about her.” Ruby asked tapping her hooves together.
“......A very regretful mare. If you have heard bad things about her, they are most likely true...But shes trying to fix her mistakes. But the good things you've heard about her are also very true...Sometimes I wonder if she can even look at herself without...I apologise am I confusing you Lady Ruby? Its not exactly easy to describe my teacher easily.”
“ No…. Just curious is all. Well I better go, I’ll see you tonight.” She smiled and grabbed her purse as she headed to the exit looking back at him and waved before disappearing from sight.
“Hmm, its good to finally be able to talk to somepony who doesn't want to gain influence or power for once. What do you think Lady Rarity?”
“Indeed darling. I hope you don’t find me snooping. After so many stallions lusting for my daughter I’ve become a bit overprotective of her.” She appeared next to him looking where her daughter left. Oh," mused Darksteel, "Such as?"
"Prince Blueblood," Rarity said, sending DarkSteel into a laughing fit.
"Blueblood? Ha!" Darksteel said, "Didn't he try to marry you?"
“Before I came back to my senses, at least, darling."
Darksteel nodded. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Lady Rarity. I'll be sure not to be late."
"Best you do, darling," Rarity said, "But really, how is Celestia these days?"
Darksteel sighed a long sigh. "Not too good,what, with the war and all. Still, I hope she'll pull through, what, with all the support she got from up north."
"You mean Solstice and The Crystal Empire?"
"And Diamond Shimmer Hive," said Darksteel, "I do find it remarkable how they still ally themselves with her. Perhaps they really believe she can change for the better."
"Can't we all hope," Rarity said, "Well, I best be off. I'll see you this evening, darling."
*Canterlot Military outpost*
In a large military encampment outside of Manehattan, a group of new recruits are awaiting their drill instructors arrival and stand at attention as best as they can. One of the recruits turns to his comrade and asks
“You hear anything about whos supposed to be our drill sergeant?” The other shakes his head.
“No, im as in the dark as you are.” Another recruit lets out a bored yawn and says, “ Whoever it is, they should have been here about what? 5 minutes ago? What's taking them so long?” Another recruit then said,
” Hey, be careful about what you say. The sergeant might overhear and who knows how they might punish you.” The other one rolls his eyes and says, “Yeah right, I grew up in the slums. I've seen plenty of stallions and mares that I would be more afraid of then some drill sergeant.”
Before he knew it he was slammed into the ground with a hoof on the back of his head.
“That so fuck stick!? You a badass from the streets huh?! I kill little shits like you every fucking day I was on the line! You’re nothing but a two bit punk with a chip on his shoulder! I see bitches like you die all the time thinking you got something to prove!” The young stallion looked back to see a scarred mare glaring down at him.
The young stallions ears fell flat on his head and fear filled him, but still tried to sound brave. “So what? I'll bet none of them were even half as good as I am at fighting or scavenging! I learned how to survive on my own before most colts knew how to use a toilet! You dont scare me!”
“Then why are you breathing so hard? Why are your pupils dilated? Why are you shaking? It’s because you’re scared. I’ve seen bitches like you cry for their mommies the first time they get shot at and quit. You know what I do? I MAKE them fight. Nine times out of ten they die. But you know what? Better them then these stallions and mares that know their job. Little shits like you make me sick because it’s not you that dies, it’s everypony around you. You’re just another little cunt that’s going to die in the first engagement.Why are you in my army? HUH!!! You got two seconds to tell me before I crush your fucking skull into the ground.” She snarled putting pressure on his head.
“Because I want to fight!”The young stallion said.
“ What the fuck makes you think I’ll let you!? You’re gonna die as soon as we get in a fight anyway since I’m sure you think you’re Celestia’s gift to the army! Why the fuck should I trust you to watch these stallions and mares backs huh?!” She yelled in his face.
“Because, unlike the rest of them Ive actually fought before! And I've seen things they never have!”The young stallion yelled back,fear quickly growing in him, and something else to.
“You know how many times I’ve heard the same story from little shits like you? Hundreds. It’s the same thing, oh I grew up on the street. I’m a badass, I know how to fight better than anypony else.” She said mockingly before growling.
“ I know your story and I’ve seen your kind. You shrimp dick little fuck! You want to grow your ego more than anything. You want to be a hero right? You want to win medals colt!? Huh? ANSWER ME YOU LITTLE FUCK!!” Dash screamed as her eyes bored into his.
“I dont give a damn about medals or glory! I just want to fight! Nothing else matters to me!” The stallion yelled back, Dash could tell, he was hiding something.
“Why do you want to fight huh? Why did you join if it’s not for glory or medals. Big shot like you could own the streets right? So why come here? You could be a mob boss and get killed by one of your buddies faster than on the battlefield if you got a deathwish. So why are you here?” She snarled slamming a hoof in his chest.
“Because I-I-I” The young stallion was clearly fighting himself more than anything, so Dash turned up the heat to get him to talk.
“You better tell me right now or I’ll have you out of my army so fast it’ll make your head spin you understand me!? TALK YOU LITTLE SHIT!” She screamed in his face.
“BECAUSE I CAN'T BE WEAK ANYMORE!” The young stallion screamed back.While struggling, desperately.
“ IM SICK OF BEING WEAK!! IM SICK OF ALL THE STALLIONS BACK HOME LAUGHING AT ME ALL BECAUSE I'M NOT SOME SCARRED VETERAN OR SOME COLD BLOODED KILLER OKAY!!! IS THAT WHAT YOU WANTED TO HEAR!?!?” The young stallion now had tears of frustration streaming down his face.
“Get the fuck out of my army. I don’t need bitches like you here. What? You want be a real stallion so you can beat up the ponies the bullied you. I don’t need you and Celestia sure as hell don’t need you. Get the fuck out.” She said getting off him glaring.
“You'll have to drag me out. I dont give a damn, about beating the crap out of those stallion, they can go to hell. Im here for ME. Until, I know I’m strong enough to fight anyone who tries to stop me from being who I am. Im staying right here, you want me gone?Just try and MAKE me leave.” The stallion growled back, with a fire in his eyes.
He watched as she pulled out a pistol and aimed it right at his head with a icy glare in her eyes.
“You got two seconds to get the fuck out of my sight or I’ll blow your fucking brains out all over the floor. Either you walk out of here or carried out in a body bag.” He hears her chamber a round into the gun and turned him around so he could see that she was deadly serious from the calm scary look on her face.
“It’s little shits like you that’s gotten countless good mares and stallions killed because they want to be strong. It’s because of shit stains like you that I lost my right eye! I watched good ponies die to save worthless cum stains like you. Ponies ten times the stallion you will ever hope to be! Get the fuck out.” She said calmly as she pulled the hammer back.
“Go ahead, I’d rather-
BLAM!!!
The stallions and mares around them stared at the hole that was by the stallions head as MP’s came to see what happened.
“ Sergeant Dash! What’s going on?!” A mare yelled busting into the barracks.
“ Take this little shit out of my sight. I won’t have shits like him in my ranks, I won’t be responsible for the deaths of these stallions and mare because of this little fuck.” She growled putting her pistol back in it’s holster.
“Clean that shit up. Pissing all over the place.” She said and walked out as the MP’s stood aside.
All of the recruits had looks of shock on their faces and then one said, “ I can't believe you just did that. He might have his issues, but doesn't he at least deserve a chance? He just told you that he came here to be more than some street punk. So, why just kick him out like that?”
He was slammed into the ground by the mare as she stared down at him.
“BECAUSE I’VE SEEN HIS KIND! ARE YOU FUCKING DEAF!!! Tell you what. He’s your responsibility from now on. When he fucks up it’s your ass, you’ll get his and you’re punishment. Better yet, all of you will. He gets you killed in combat and I know he will because chicken shit fuck thats all talk and wants to be a bad ass. I wash my hooves of your deaths. My conscience is clean. “ With that she looks down the piss puddle that is under the stallion.
“Clean that up.” With that she left.
“What happened to her that she is so harsh and critical? Have that many ponies she's cared about died around her?” One recruit asked a MP.
“It’s none of your Celestia damned business maggot. She used to be a captain before she came here to weed out punks like this. Now shut the fuck up and clean this mess up.” The mare growled as they all shrank back.
All of the recruits went to go clean up the mess, except one. A young mare that had stood in the far back, she looked down and then around her and said.
“ I can’t do this. I can’t be trained under somepony like her, I have a father who was in the war, he saw his whole team die in front of him. He’s never even said ‘I love you’ once to me. I came here to get away from him, but...I can't be trained under a pony like her. I went through a lifetime with a pony like her and I can't just get reassigned, I'm leaving.” The young mare turned around, and started to walk away, her head hung in shame.
“Then leave. If you can’t handle me then you can’t handle a battlefield. You are the second kind I hate. Cowards the somehow make their way through basic and in my opinion are worse than him. Get out.” Dash came from the shadows in the other side of the room as she looked at the mare with nothing but a calm fury
“My problem isn't basic training, its you. I could deal with a drill sergeant who made me so exhausted that I couldn't even sleep every night. But...I've been around a pony like you my entire life. I’m not afraid to go through through training that could kill me, but I just...Can't be trained by somepony like my father. He said, his drill sergeant was like he is now and his fathers too. I don’t want to turn out like him.” The mare said sadly, realizing how cowardly that actually sounded.
“Well then by all means theres the door.” Dash stared at her as she left with one of the MPs escorting her out.
“ Understand this. When you leave this place, you will be train on how to survive, how to show no mercy to the enemy, how kill without hesitation, and how to protect your fellow soldier. I don’t train recruits. I train soldiers. I train warriors that will leave this camp as soldiers. Not recruits. When I’m done with you, you will be the most feared stallions and mares in this army. Hooah?” She called out looking at each recruit.
“Hooah!” Was the chorus of the remaining recruits.
“Good. Now get this all cleaned up and we’ll start the day. You have a long six months ahead of you.” She said before leaving for good this time giving one last look to the stallion on the ground.
“You better surprise me boy or I won’t miss next time.” She said before leaving.
“Yes ma’am, I will.” The stallion said before going back to cleaning. Dash couldn't help but notice that the fire was still in his eyes that she had seen before.
As the mare left the barracks, she was approached by a stallion in shining silver armor, the likes of which she'd never seen before. "Tough day?"
The mare signed. "That mare....she's so much like my father that....I just can't."
"I know the feeling," the stallion said with a sigh, "His majesty has considered killing her, but to kill an Element of Harmony? That's insanity. Anyway, I'm General Arcturus, 3rd Solstice Royal Guard."
"Oh," said the mare, taking a cautious step back, "I've heard of Solstice."
"I'm sure you have. If you still want to fight, I think we can fit a new member into the 3rd Royal Guard. What do you say?"
The mare had heard the rumors about Solstice from the previous war, how they'd crushed Equestrian opposition with ease, but had been merciful to their prisoners, and had treated them as guests over prisoners of war. As such, it took her only a moment to decide. "I'd like that."
"Well then, welcome the Solstice Grand Army, Private. I'm sure you'll do just fine.”
Author's Note
I do not own MLP. Wish I did.
