The Fall of Celestia

Chapters

"I came to warn you."
"Time to wake up, y'hear?"
"Sweet Luna, protect me!"
“As you wish, my Princess.”
"Rainbow Dash, Rarity, this is super important."
"Twilight Sparkle?"

"I came to warn you."

+++The Day Before+++ ???:

"It's been nearly six years since the Battle of the Changelings in Canterlott. Since Queen Chrysalis was defeated by Commander Shining Armour and Princess Cadance's spell, things have gotten from bad to worse." Old Bayonet coughed, eyeing up the new recruits. The flames gave him a twinkle in his eye.

The colts and mares gathered around the fire looked nervously to each other. They were new recruits with barely used barding and sore feet from their iron horsehoes. Bayonet snouted, making one or two of them jump. "With the Changelings vanguard having been defeated, there were celebrations. The mood was good, you know. The Princess and the Commander got married, there were parties, and the mares..."

He coughed, and leaned down to puff on his pipe.
"Well, it was a good time for everyone, shall we say? However, there was trouble a'brewin. Some of the smaller towns near the Changelings started going silent. Her Highness sent that mare of hers, the star pupil, Twilight, helped face the Changelings. All they found were dusk and empty buildings. I went on one of them tours, you know? You know what I found?" Bayonet leans forward, close to a colt who visibly shook.

"Did you find Changelings?" His voice shook.
"Nope," Bayonet grinned, "we found nothing." He was silent for a few moments, let the quiet set in. "There was nothing. No bodies, no sign of fightin', not a hair nor hide of anyone. Twilight cast a few spells here and there, and so did a few of our own unicorns, but whatever they found, they didn't share with us common soldiers."
"So there we was, after that mission, enjoying our time with the celebrations, when the first of dem arrived. And at the time, the only one of dem." Bayonet shook his head.
"What do you mean, sir?" The shaking colt raised his hoof.
"I mean the one dat started it all. Her." Bayonet said darkly.

+++5 years, 11 months, 3 weeks, 4 days prior+++ Canterlott, The Royal Palace, Front Door:

"Do you doubt me? ME!? I must see the Princess, it's a matter of greatest urgency!" The ultramarine blue unicorn stamped her hoof. Bayonet raised an eyebrow. It was quite early in the morning to have to deal with these ponies...
"Look, the Princess is busy, there are official hours when she will take public queries..." Bayonet began patiently, even though it was the fifth time he had said the phrase. It wouldn't do to shout... the splitting headache from the previous night's festivities ensured that.
“I do not care what you think, commoner. Move, or I shall move you.” She swept back her hair, showing a glowing horn. Bayonet grunted.
“Listen, pony,” he put heavy emphasis on the word; he’d had enough of her now, “If you think you can simply barge past me and wander in on Her Highness, with or without your fancy magic, I hope you got so wings too so you can outrun me.” He shook his head angrily, and stamped a hoof. It was far too early to be dealing with this particular pony.

They stared at one another for a few seconds, before the blue unicorn lowered her head and her horn. “I’m sorry, but I very much need to speak to the Princess. Either Princess.”
“You and everypony else. Scram.” He cantered forward, but the unicorn fell back before him. He felt a moment of regret- he was taking his hangover out on civilians now. Maybe he should have taken that holiday. “Listen… ummm…”
“Trixie. My name is Trixie.” Her voice became petulant under her white mane.
“Right, Trix, listen. Tell me what you want to pass on, and I’ll make sure that it goes to the right person.” Bayonet said in what he thought was a kind voice.
“Will you now? Can you get across the severity of the situation?” Trixie raised her head, her eyes flashing angrily. “Can you tell them exactly what I saw? Because I can’t, so I seriously doubt you can.”
“And what is it you did see?” Bayonet patiently asked.
“I saw something. It was big, and dark, and black, and it scared the magic out of me. And this… thing… It will… Look, get out of my way, I don’t have time to explain it to you.” Trixie tried to run past him, shoving him to the side.

“Hey, colts, a little help here? We’ve got a galloper.” He chased after her, with one of the Royal Guards swooping down from above. There were always a few crazy ones...

+++ 5 years, 11 months, 3 weeks, 1 day later +++ Twilight's Library, Ponyville:

“Hey, Twilight?” Spike shouted up the stairs. She was probably at her books again. He turned to their guest. “Wait here for a second, will’ya?” Without waiting for an answer, he ran up the stairs.
Twilight was sitting on her bed, turning the pages of a book with her hoof and blissfully unaware of anything. There was a small piles of book piling up that Spike would have to clear up later. He walked over. “Twilight?”
She remained in her own world. He got closer. “Twilight?”
Nothing. He got onto the bed slowly, as to not jog her. Still hadn’t noticed. And then jumped on her back. “Twilight!” He shouted.
He then found himself being picked up by magic and thrown off. “Spike!” She shouted. “How many times have I told you to not jump on my back when I’m trying to read!?”
Spike righted himself, and brushed himself off. “But you’ve got a visitor, Twi.”

“Oh!” Her eyes grew big with excitement. “Is it Rarity? Or Applejack? Or did Rainbow Dash hear I got the latest Darring Do book finally?” She said with a smile. That smile quickly disappeared when she reached the bottom of the stairs.
“Not quite, my dear, for it is I, the Great and Almighty Trixie.” Their guest stepped in, announcing her presence. Twilight rolled her eyes.
“What do you want?” She smiled through gritted teeth.
“I came to warn you of a danger, Twilight. I feel someone of your level may be able to help even I.” She said grandiosely.
“Did you now? How lucky. What is it?” Twilight looked at Spike, who raised an eyebrow back and made a face.
“Something dangerous indeed. Something that threatens the entire realm.” Trixie said, her voice going for melodrama.
“I’m sure it is. But if you don’t mind, I need to quickly pop out.” Twilight awkwardly tried to sidestep Trixie.
“Twilight…” Trixie sticks her hoof out in front of Twilight, and gulps. “Please, this is serious. There’s something you need to know…”

"Time to wake up, y'hear?"

+++5 years, 11 months, 3 weeks prior+++ The Canterlott-Ponyville Train Line:

Looking wearily out of the window, Applejack let the rhythm of the train simply wash over her, her eyes resting and not focused. Her wide-brimmed hat flapped slightly in the chair next to her, lazily shifting with the winds from the window. She had been travelling all night, but couldn’t bring herself to sleep. There were so many plans to deal with…

The train jumped on the track, knocking Applejack out of her stupor. There weren’t many other ponies in the cart, most had long since decided to stay for the full month of festivities in Canterlott or had gone home. In regards to her friends, Fluttershy and Twilight had chosen to withdraw nearly as soon as the party was over. There hadn’t been much time to discuss that, so much had to be sorted. Maybe she’d seek them out. A familiar sight caught her eye.

Applejack looked at the sunset setting over her farm. A deep, akane apple red hung over the black silhouettes of the trees, in the distance over the mountains. It had taken several days after the wedding to get the accounts sorted. Several of the higher ponies came to her with hopes of further catering, after her assortment of apple pies, cakes, strudels and so on. Either way, she was late getting back to the farm.

She thought she spotted some movement among her trees, and smiled wistfully. Damn that Macintosh, she thought bemusedly, he would work himself till he was long in the teeth and lame in the legs if someone wasn’t there to supervise him.
A movement from one of the few ponies in the corner of her eye drew her. It appears that Derpy was currently asleep on some poor brown colt, who was looking decidedly uncomfortable. Since they were nearing the station, Applejack wandered over.

The brown colt looked at Applejack as she approached, and Applejack gave a weary smile. “Hey, sugarcube,” she nudged her shoulder with a hoof, not too hard, “It’s our stop. Time to wake up, y’hear?”
Derpy simply rolled over and snorted loudly. Applejack sighed, and left her to her companion. She’d seen him around, he’d even turned the glass in that competition. Ponyville wasn’t a big place.
As the train pulled to a halt, Applejack put on her saddlebags, and stood by the door. The train stopped, and Applejack opened the door, glad to be off the moving thing and settle her stomach. She took a deep breath, and heard her name being called.

“Applejack! Hoo-ey, Applejack!” Cries came from behind a small crowd, and Applejack swore she could see a green hoof being waved over the heads of the ponies. Applejack smiled, and then moved through the crowd. Granny Smith also started pushing through, declaring “sorry!” and “don’t mind me!”
As Applejack hugged her grandmother, she noticed following in her wake was Apple Bloom, who leapt for a hug as well. As she hugged her family, she smiled. No, Ponyville wasn’t a big place at all. It’s perfect just as is.

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 6 days prior+++ Ponyville High Street:

“Argh!”

A cry of frustration left Trixie’s lips as she stomped around. A few ponies nearby looked over, concerned, but looked away quickly as they saw her face. Ever since she told Twilight Sparkle about the events on the borders, Twilight had simply hidden herself away in her library with that dragon of hers and not said a word.
Walking down the street, Trixie frowned at nothing in particular, making other ponies move out of her way as she silently mumbled to herself furiously. What was that mare doing? She was supposed to be close to the Princess, to pass along a
message, but instead, she’s stuck her nose into those books.

Trixie noticed a café, and sat down at an empty table. She wasn’t in the mood for company, and when the waiter came over, she glared at him for a second before she heard what he said. “…you like to eat?”
“I don’t know, daffodils or something” she snapped. This wasn’t the time for politeness, this was a time for action, and this inaction was driving her crazy. It was already humiliating enough to be forced to come back and talk to a pony who had already bested her, but to be ignored by her? She was still glaring when the waiter delivered the plate, leaving it to the side of her before dashing away to help a customer who looked less likely to kick him.

Ignoring the food, Trixie continued to stare a hole into the wall. The worried stares of the other ponies only made her angrier. She turned to look at them. “What!?”

They quickly looked back to their food.

She noticed her food, a very nicely arrayed pile of daffodils, with some hay on top. With a deep breath, Trixie let out an equally long sigh. There’s no point getting stressed over it. She focused on picking up the food, her horn glowing blue as the food lifted to her mouth. Without really thinking, she started chewing. But her mind was elsewhere.

What was Twilight doing? She had simply listened, and then said to leave everything to her. Since then, Spike had said that Twilight was busy whenever she tried to visit. Maybe she should return to Canterlott, try sneaking in? It wouldn’t be too hard, after all. She is THE Trixie, after all.

She noticed that she had finished her food. With a sigh, she left a few coins on the table and left. The food sat in her stomach like a dead weight. As she passed the cupcake shop, she noticed that some of her hair had fallen out of place, giving her a slight mad look. She quickly arranged her hair back in position, and calmly walked along.

Her thoughts inevitably came back to Twilight. Why wasn’t she doing anything? Maybe she didn’t understand what Trixie had seen. To be honest, Trixie couldn’t understand what she had seen. It had been late, and she’d come with her show, and the town had been empty, and then…
She shuddered, a shiver creeping up her back. Mentally, she pulled away from that. It had been over a week now. Things were fine. Things were well. And soon Princess Celestia would know, and then Trixie wouldn’t have to involve herself at all.

Maybe it was time to see Twilight again. See if she couldn’t just… hurry things along.

+++ 5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 4 days prior+++ Fluttershy's Home, Ponyville:

“Oh, you want me to look after Owlowiscious?” Fluttershy smiled. She poured some grass tea into a cup.
“Yes. I’m off to go see the Princess again. I’ve come across some very disturbing news.” Twilight said somewhat absent-mindedly. Fluttershy nodded, noticing that Angel had rejected his food again, the bowl full of lettuce.
“Oh dear, I hope it’s nothing too dangerous? Is it Chrysalis again?” Fluttershy moved the cup towards Twilight, before sitting down and drinking some of her own.
“No, I don’t think so. She was just beaten this previous week, I doubt she wants to risk Shining Armour’s wrath twice.” Twilight smiled at the mention of her brother. That had been a stressful week for Twilight, as she was alone in suspecting the imposter Cadence. It was good to see Twilight smile.

Whilst she had been all sunshine and smiles during the marriage, afterwards Twilight spent her time worrying about this and that, and had spent a lot of time alone with her books. Rarity and Pinkie Pie had tried bringing her out, and Rainbow had tried dragging her out, but Twilight was still a bit quiet.
That said, today she was fine. Her mane was nicely combed, she didn’t have the usual sleeping bags under her eyes from staying up and reading books, and she was chatting openly. “Well, that’s true I suppose. Any word from him and the Princess?”
“Yes. I got a postcard from her yesterday. Apparently they’ll be coming back soon, and Princess Cadence would love to get to know me better. Sister time, she called it.” Twilight grinned happily at the prospect.
“That sounds good. I’m sure it will be great fun.” Fluttershy offered, giving Twilight permission to keep talking. Sometimes, it was nice to listen to Twilight just ramble about her life. “Where is Spike today? I bought some cakes, but without Spike, there’s one spare.”
“Spike? Oh, he’s just off gathering supplies. You know, paper, ink, ice cream…”
“Ice cream is a supply?” Fluttershy looked bemusedly at Twilight.
“Well, he sure seems to think so” Twilight laughed. “If that’s the case, I’m sure he’ll be joining us before long. But we can get started without him, can’t we?” She smiled.

"Sweet Luna, protect me!"

+++The Day Before+++ ???:

“So, it seemed that the little blue pony went straight to Celestia’s personal pupil. It sure was interesting when she came back. All high nose and haughty glares, I tell you.” Old Bayonet snorted in amusement.
“But before then, there was when that trouble with the border towns started. Of course, we didn’t know nothing about it, being the Civil Guard and all, but something was brewin’, even then.” Old Bayonet looked into the fire.

“Ummm…” One of the mares under his command raised her hoof.
Bayonet looked at her, chewing the straw in his mouth slowly. A small thing. Pink coat, delicate body, good posture. “Speak, young’un.”
“What do this have to do with tomorrow?” She looked around for support. Some of the ponies with her nodded, but remained silent.
Old Bayonet continued to look at her. Still had the spark of innocence in her eyes. “Because you don’t want to die for somethin’ you don’t understand, do you?”

He thought to himself that spark would be dead tomorrow, even if she lived.

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 3 days prior+++ Ponyville High Street:

“Trixie.” It was a statement, an acknowledgement of her existence, not a greeting. Applejack stared bluntly at Trixie.
“Farmer.” Trixie responded, her voice cool and aloof. She wasn’t going to get pushed around by this mere earth-pony, not today.
“Ummm…. Guys?” Spike stood between them, although he stood in such a way to throw his support with the yellow mare. Trixie felt a sneer on her features. These two were so below her it wasn’t even funny. And yet here she is, dealing with them.
“I hear you embarrassed yourself at the Gala, Farmer. But then, ponies like you had best stay here, in the rural areas, where there’s no-one to embarrass yourself to.” Trixie smiled coldly at Applejack, and turned to leave. She had to finish packing. And then that dragon came to fetch her. Fetch her!? Like a common dog, apparently. She wasn’t here to be abused by lesser minds.

“Don’t ya be going without finishin’ what ya started!” Applejack shouted, before running to cut off Trixie’s retreat.
“What is your problem? Get out of my way.” Trixie made to move around her, but Applejack moved in the way.
“My problem is that Twi got random phonies who be claimin’ all sorts ah rubbish.” Applejack stated. Her eyes narrowed as she looked at Trixie.
“I claim nothing! I have seen things before your wildest nightmares…” Trixie was outraged at the rudeness of this manure-smelling, apple picking…
“Yeah, like I ain’t heard that before!” Applejack shouted back. She reared and stomped with her front hooves.
“You don’t know anything, you low-born…” Trixie snarled.
“HEY!” Spike jumped between them again. Spike looked around, and Trixie tore her eyes away from Applejacks face to notice that ponies where staring at them.
“This was a mistake. I don’t have time to deal with you. I’m going back to Canterlott, with Twilight Sparkle, and you can’t stand in my way. Celestia knows this is taking enough time as it is.” Trixie shoved past the two of them, and left, holding her head high and refusing to make eye contact with anyone.

Applejack sighed. “I’m sorry, Spike, I jus’ get so angry when that mare is around. She tried to dupe us before, and nearly got ponies hurt, y’know?”
“Yeah, I know. But Twilight believes her, and says this is important.” Spike shrugged. He loked at Trixies retreating form. “And I was just sent to go and get her.”
“Yeah, she mentioned that, huh. What’cha both doin’?” Applejack followed Spike’s gaze and frowned.
“Apparently we’ve got to go back to Canterlott and talk to the Princess.” Spike sighed. He’d been planning to take the week off, they’d been a lot of parties. And Pinkie Pie wasn’t one for letting them sleep.
“So soon?” Applejack whipped her head back to Spike. “But ya just got ‘ere!”
“Uh-huh.” Spike agreed without thinking. There was supposed to be a lot of ice cream at those parties though. And Sweetie Bell was still there… That was an uncomfortable thought, thought Spike, who briefly shook it off.
“I suppose I’d best go say goodbye to Twi then.” Applejack trotted off, leaving Spike to his daydream.

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 2 days prior +++ Neighvana, Border Town of Equestria:

Starsparkle crept through the village. She’d just left two days ago to deliver the latest batch of brandy to Canterlott. But she’d come back, and it was so… quiet.
Now, Neighvana was hardly the loudest place in Equestria. And it wasn’t like she wasn’t used to the night. But this felt so different. Like the silence was oppressive. She didn’t even have a reason to be sneaking, but the idea of trotting home loudly made her chest tighten.

She gulped. The idea of staying made her chest tighten. She lowered down some more.
Currently, she was standing in the middle of a street. The dusty road had yet to be cemented, but there was a lighter patch from the hooves of many ponies walking over it. Normally. But the road was heavily dusted, and the only hoofprints were her own. A broken piece of wood was lying in the middle of the road.
She looked to the sides, wondering if she should do so and hide in the shadows. But when she looked in the shadows, she could feel them looking back. She couldn’t take her eyes from it. She could hear a scratching sound as her eyes were stuck into the gloomy darkness. The light from the moon seemed to dim around the focus of her vision as she backed up and hit a wall and could back up no further.

The scratching grew louder, and she began to breath heavily, tears building up at the corner of her eyes from terror and beginning to run unbidden down her cheeks, and her heart was pounding in her chest. Her lungs felt gripped by a massive giant, and she fell into the dirt sideways, pushing away from that darkness.

“Sweet Luna, protect me!” She covered her head and cowered in the sand.

The breathing grew so loud, she could almost feel it on the back of her neck…

“As you wish, my Princess.”

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 4 days prior+++ Canterlott Palace:

“Tell the nobles that we would be more than happy to make their acquaintance, but they must wait for two hours.” Luna quickly answered her horseservant, who galloped off down the corridor. Luna turned to another pony, white coat contrasting with black suit jacket.

“Your Highness, it appears that the local food providers wish to hand in a petition and discuss the current taxation laws on certain imports.” This one had a rather nasal voice that grated on Luna’s nerves.
“Stiff Steward, you must inform them that we shall be busy today. Take their petition, and then make an appointment for tomorrow, about high noon.” Luna quickly answered, remaining coolly formal. This was not a time for pettiness.
“Madam, at high noon you are expected to be entertaining the officials from Cloudsdale with tea.” Stiff sniffed, calmly regarding the Princess of the Night.
“Then kindly find a time when we are not and tell them to come then.” This was uttered through gritted teeth and a fixed grin. Luna could feel her temper rise, and she began to think improper thoughts about his stupid moustache.
“As you wish, my Princess.” Stiff bowed, and then walked away from her continuing to bow.
“That one is far too obsessed with custom than given sense.” Luna muttered angrily under her breath. As she turned, she noticed that another servant was approaching, carrying yet another roll of paper in his coat. She fixed her smile again.

“What news, horseservant?” Her cheeks began to hurt from her forced grin.
The horseservant looked at his ruler, her smile looking more like a rictus grin and her eyes having the dulled focus of someone robbed of sleep. He gave a sympathetic smile.
“This one can wait, my Princess.” He turned and walked away.
Luna sighed with relief, and with a quick look around to see no one was nearby, began to trot quickly to her room. Every time she heard voices, she instinctively sped up her trot to avoid them. The walls of the palace, as beautifully white as ever, seemed to carry the ever-present murmur of ponies talking.

As she got closer to her ward, she found two black coated ponies standing guard, wearing the dark steel armour and full moon symbol of her personal soldiery, the Night’s Guard. They bowed as she trotted past. She made a point to nod her head at them- even stressed, there was no excuse being rude to your own employees.
Here, the walls were the black silver of the night, with twinkling lights along the walls. This place was anything but dark, it was as bright as the day but as beautiful as twilight. Even she felt more relaxed here. This was her private place, away from the talking and the looks.

As she entered her room, greeting the guard outside it, she noticed a letter had been placed upon the desk. She trotted in, the guard closing the door behind her. A black glow surrounded the letter as she lifted it up, bringing it over as she collapsed on her bed.
By the moon, she was tired! She hadn’t slept more than three straight hours for over ten days. After a few seconds of relaxing, she rolled over, groaning with exhaustion, and looked at the letter. There was no time for rest, even this brief respite had to end soon, she had duties to fulfil. The letter felt thick. If it hadn’t been placed on her personal desk she might have thought it to be another petition of some sort.
Taking the letter out, she felt a glimmer of joy at the handwriting. It was from Twilight, it seems. Whilst it would have normally had her jumping for joy, she could barely muster that weary smile. Before she could start to read, somepony knocked on her door.
Putting the letter down, Luna buried her face into her pillows and screamed in frustration. Once she ran out of breath, she got up, quickly straightened her hair, put back on her crown, and opened the door. There stood a earth pony, with a purple coat and black mane, and a sword over a moon cutie mark. No armour on this particular Night’s Guardian.

“Madam, I bring news… “ She stopped, and considered Luna for a second. “Did you hear something a second ago?” She asked.
Luna smiled and shook her head. “I heard nothing. What is the news, Captain Eventide?”
“Your sister wants to talk to you. And of course, the usual sycophants, dissidents and general time-wasters are looking for you, but none of my guards have seen you all day. You can’t be here.” Eventide smiled. She was unorthodox, but like all of the Night’s Guard, her priority was Luna and her welfare.
“Thank you, Captain, and your men.” Luna smiled, and began to walk to her sister’s quarters.
“No, my lady, your men.” Eventide bowed, and followed the Princess.
Luna blushed. “Yes, I suppose. My men.” She appreciated the sentiment, a warm feeling of loyalty to her personal guard. She walked quickly, almost eagerly. This was the first time since the wedding that Celestia had given any indication of wanting to talk to anyone.

During the invasion of Canterlott, Queen Chrysalis defeated the Princess in combat. Luna felt a twinge of guilt. Defending the kingdom was their duty, together. Her sister should have never faced Chrysalis alone.
She reached Celestia’s personal chambers, giving a quick courteous nod to the Solar Warden, who simply nodded back. On duty, Celestia’s men took their duty seriously. It was a trait which Luna could respect. The guard opened the door, and inside there was darkness. With a look to Eventide, Luna stepped in alone. She heard Eventide canter off, chatting with one of the guards no doubt.

She closed the door behind her. The curtains were closed, and the room smelled strongly of her sister, a sweet smell, but strong. Around the room books were scattered and there was something hanging in the corner. Luna gave the books a quick look over, noticing the topic was of the Changelings, their history, culture, politics, so on. She turned her attention to the corner.
As Luna looked closer at it, she realised she had seen one of these in her guard’s quarters. It was a sandbag used by unicorn to practise duelling with their horns. Celestia didn’t have one of these before. Now it was here, and two more lay punctured and torn in the corner. Luna made a mental note to have the room cleaned out.
The wardrobe doors hung open, with clothes spilling out. There were a few plates here and there, often near a pile of books. There was even some armour plates scattered around the room, however, they likely didn’t fit the size of an allicorn.
This alone distressed Luna. Her sister was often busy, but she was always meticulous, and never so messy. If this room reflected how her sister felt…

In one of the adjoining rooms, some noises could be heard. Luna quickly through open the curtains with magic, just to get some light into this room. Not only that, but some of the windows were opened and the bedding was quickly hung out of the window, shaken, and then neatly tucked back onto the bed. Maybe she had best clear it up. It wouldn’t do for anyone to see her sister like this.

She approached the room, and found it once more dark. Some of the light filtered through the large clear window she just opened, and she looked inside.
At a desk, surrounded by paper, opened parchments on the floor scattered haphazardly, stood her sister. A pile of newly closed parchment, yet to be sent, was building on the floor. The bin was over flowing with paper, screwed up and thrown away in frustration. Books on all topics were scattered. Inkpots were building up on the desk. Luna stepped in fully. She could feel the magic hanging in the air, from constant use from writing.
“Sister?” She asked tentatively, as to not surprise her. When Celestia didn’t answer, she moved to her shoulder. “Celestia?”
The Princess turned to look at Luna, a shocked smile on her face. Her normally glorious mane of many colours was a mess, straight as ever but clearly hadn’t been brushed in a while. Slight bags hung under her eyes. It looked like she hadn’t had much sleep either. “Luna, it is good to see you.” She gave Luna a quick hug, before looking around her room. “It’s far too dark and cramped in here, shall we move through?” Without waiting, Celestia walked back into the room. Luna noticed the parchment on the desk was addressed to the Griffon race.
Celestia rang a bell, and at the door, asked for tea to be brought for Luna and herself. Luna sat at a small receiving table, and waited for her sister to speak.

Celestia looked back. “How are you, Luna?” She smiled effortlessly, as she always did. Luna felt relief at that. It had been too long without her sister.
“Well, I’m currently dealing with the general well-wishers and general influx of duties that comes with the celebrations.” Luna said, trying to keep her voice light. She didn’t want her sister to think she blamed her.
Celestia nodded, seemingly seeing through Luna. “I’m sorry, I’ve just had a lot on my mind at the moment. There’s so much to do, we were caught completely off-guard…” She spoke quickly, her sentences not flowing. She was clearly more distressed than she was letting on, as well.
“Celestia,” Luna said quietly to get her attention, “what did you want to discuss with me?” Luna wanted to get straight to the point, so she could help her sister. She put her head on her hoof, and patiently waited.
After a few seconds, there was a knock on the door. A guard of the Solar Warden brought in the tea, rather than the normal servant. He gave a quick nod to Luna, dropped the tea on the table, saluted Celestia, and left. Celestia nodded back, and waited for him to leave.

Luna poured herself and Celestia some tea, her black magic quietly picking up the various pieces of crockery. Celestia sat with her sister, and picked up her tea and drank, deep in thought. Luna waited patiently, keeping her breathing even.
After a few minutes, it seemed Celestia was lost in her thoughts again, her brow furrowing. “Celestia?” She gently spoke, trying to bring her sister out of her mind.
“Hmmm?” Celestia looked at Luna, faintly surprised she was still there, “Ah, Luna, I’m sorry, but I have duties to return to. Can we talk another time?” She smiled at Luna. Slightly sadly, Luna thought.
She sighed. “Of course, sister. I looked forward to it.” Celestia nodded, and returned to her room. Luna finished her tea, and quietly left. She nodded once more to the guard and was about to leave, before turning back to him.

“I want that room cleaned, every day.” She commanded, firmly.
“Yes, your Highness.” He didn’t so much as blink.
“And not by a servant, or a cleaner. I want you, the Solar Wardens, to do it.” She continued. He looked at her for a second, before frowning slightly. “You have a concern?”
“Well, excusing my manners, your Highness, but we are soldiers, not cleaners.” He spoke with both hesitance and confusion.
“That is exactly why you must do it. You are her soldiers. Her personal guard. We can’t have people seeing her like this. No one is to know, do you understand?” Luna gave him a stern gaze. She hoped she wouldn’t have to spell it out for him. He kept it for a second, before nodding.

“Yes, your Highness.” He saluted. Luna gave a sharp nod, and turned away. Inwardly, she was tearing her mane out. “What about your other duties, sister? Are you to abandon them as well?” She thought frustratedly. Outwardly, she remained completely composed.

"Rainbow Dash, Rarity, this is super important."

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 3 days prior +++ The Great Wine Lodge:
This was precisely the place where she belonged, Rarity thought as she walked down the stairs with the velvet carpet, her glass slippers making not a sound as she trotted. Her hair was perfect, her scarf was just the exact shade of light purple to make her horn bracelet shine as it hung from her horn to within the curls of her hair. She had spent a few hours preparing, and this dress was something she’d been planning to make for a while, but she could never find time.

The air was hung heavily with incense, there were candles on the walls, and there was gold trimming on everything. Applejack had called it ‘gaudy’ when Rarity had forced her to come here. Rarity thought it was simply beautiful.
The crowds of the higher mares and colts of society were almost heady to Rarity once, such was her desire to make her way among the elite of Canterlott. But now, she wasn’t here merely to impress upon them her name and companionship- she was invited. Ponies knew who she was now. She had made it.

A server came to her, carrying a rose petals sprinkled onto slices of lavender. Rarity waved him away. She had already eaten, and nothing is quite as unsightly as a pony carrying food in their hooves as they wandered around.
“HEY RARITY!” Rarity felt a great weight upon her back as Pinkie jumped on it. “Have you seen the food they’re giving away? Fancy stuff, huh?” She grinned broadly.
Rarity stood up, quickly fixing her clothes. “Yes, yes, it is. Now this is a respected establishment, so could you please be… calmer, my dear?” She gave a smile, which came out a tad crooked.
“Calmer. Got it!” Pinkie Pie gave a serious frown, before saluting.
“Thank y..” Rarity started in relief, but Pinkie Pie quickly looked over Rarity’s shoulder.
“Is that… HEY!” She called out, waving her hoof. “HEY! HEY YOU!” She ran past Rarity after someone she had seen. Rarity looked around. A small circle of muttering had formed around her, complete with glances and ponies shaking their heads.

Rarity gave them a quick smile, and asked politely if firmly “Can I help you?” The ponies looked away, and conversation started picking up in her vicinity. Inwardly, she sighed. This wasn’t the first party that Pinkie Pie had asked to come to with her, and it wasn’t the first time that Pinkie Pie’s… enthusiasm had made some waves.
“Rarity, my dear.” A deep voice came from behind Rarity, a jacket coming over her shoulders, with a deep blue cloud over it. “It is a tad chilly, is it not?” Rarity turned to find Fancy Pants standing behind her, his blue moustache twitching with hidden mirth.
“Sir Fancy, I hadn’t expected to meet you so soon.” Rarity curtsied, before standing straight and giving a small smile.
“Nonsense, I invited you, I should have met with you earlier,” scoffed Fancy Pants. A twinkle of amusement appeared in his eye. “I see Madam Pie has been appreciating the party atmosphere.” He nodded behind Rarity, who turned with a small feeling of dread.

Up on the stage, Pinkie Pie was busily organising the band into what she felt was more interesting, whispering into ears and moving people bodily if needed. A few of the musicians grinned with mischief, but most (and especially the more distinguished ones) frowned. One of the senior members turned to her, but their words were lost over the sounds of the party. Rarity sighed again.
“I’m sorry about her, I’ll go and…” Rarity apologised to Fancy Pants and moved to turn away, but he politely stood in her way.
“Don’t worry about her, I’ve no doubt she’ll liven things up. I’m all for sombreness, but sometimes you need to have fun too.” That twinkle in his eye never left. Despite herself, Rarity giggled.
“Oh, you. You hang around with this company and all you really want is Pinkie throwing confetti at everyone,” she commented, tilting her head.

At that, he laughed. Not a full belly laugh, but certainly heartfelt. “I’m sure some of my friends would agree with that,” and then he looked at Rarity. “And I’m sure it isn’t Madam Pie who would be first in my wishes for company.” He gave a very direct look at Rarity, who did the polite thing and looked embarrassed.

It wasn’t completely an act.

“So, shall we go and dance?” Fancy pants bowed, and held out a hoof, which Rarity gracefully accepted. By this point, Pinkie Pie had managed to either charm or berate the band into following her, and so the music became a lot more lively.
This was going to a marvellous night indeed.

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks, 1 day +++ Canterlott Train Station:

“Hey! I think I see it!” Rainbow Dash called down to the ponies below. A few cheers came from under her. Rainbow Dash flew a bit higher, her wings straining slightly against the wind. Seeing the actual train, rather than just the smoke, she flipped backwards in the air and flew back down to the station.

She landed a tad roughly, her knees bending to take the light impact. Her teachers used to say that a properly done landing has no bumps. Dash however, dismissed it as needless worrying. Sweetie Belle ran up to her. “Do you think that Apple Bloom will be coming?” She asked excitedly.
“Nah, Twilight didn’t mention her. Apparently, it’s just her, Spike, and some random pony.” Rainbow Dash looked back to Sweetie Belle. “Hey, where’s Rarity anyhow?” She looked around.
“Oh, she’s just indeed sorting her hat. She doesn’t like the wind.” Sweetie Belle’s mouth tightened slightly from annoyance, and Rainbow sighed.
“Yeah, that sounds like her.” She flicked her rainbow mane into the air, loving the feeling of the wind lifting up strands of hair and blowing her fringe straight back. Windy. Just how Rainbow liked it.
“Look! There it is!” Sweetie Belle pointed, a few of the other ponies around also now noticing. At the commotion, Rarity joined there group.
“Have I missed anything?” She asked, watching the train get closer.
“No, not really.” Sweetie Belle sounded bored. Rainbow privately agreed.

As the train pulled in, everyone gathered around. Except Rarity, of course, who had no intention of “brawling in the dirt”. Rainbow and Sweetie moved closer. The door opened, and the first few ponies got off, including one old mare who Rainbow Dash felt was taking way too long, and then Twilight got off, looking around.
“HEY! Twilight! Over here!” Rainbow waved her hoof over her head, jumping slightly. Twilight saw them, and looked back. Spike jumped off the train, carrying quite a lot of luggage. And then another pony got off, wearing a dark blue cloak, white hair and an unhappy grimace. Rainbow Dash shut up at the sight of her, her smile dripping off her face.

“Not her again…” She muttered, frowning. Sweetie looked at her, but Rainbow didn’t notice. Behind her, she could hear Rarity excusing herself as she walked up next to Rainbow.
“Is Twilight here yet? The wind is playing… oh, what is she doing here?” Her eyes narrowed when she saw Trixie. “I knew I was having far too much fun, so obviously she would arrive…”
Sweetie Belle looked up. “Who is she?”
“You remember that travelling magician who came to Ponyville? Was ungraciously arrogant? Far too boastful? Has delusions of grandeur? Has… Twilight, my dear, it is wonderful to see you!” Rarity gave Twilight a hug, and turned to Spike. “And how is my little dragon doing?”
“Aw, I’m good Rarity. How are you doing?” Spike looked bashfully at Rarity and Sweetie Belle.
“Hey, Twilight, what’s she doing here?” Behind them, Rainbow Dash greeted Twilight. Trixie sniffed.
“Trixie is here as a consultant on dangers,” she declared. She puffed out her chest and gave Rainbow a narrow eyed gaze, and a smirk.
Rainbow Dash snorted. “Yeah! Like you were last time, when the Ursa Major came. You were so handy then.”
“Rainbow Dash, please. Trixie has something very important to tell the Princess, it’s very serious,” Twilight pleaded.
Rainbow Dash thought for a moment, weighing things up. “So, what is so important that you’ve come straight back to Canterlott?” She asked Twilight.
Rarity walked over, leaving Spike to make awkward conversation with Sweetie Belle. “Twilight, darling, it’s so good to see you healthy.” She looked at Trixie. “Hello, you.” Her smile was fixed. She then returned to ignoring Trixie. “What brings you back to the capital? Did you miss the society?”
Twilight wore a serious look. “Rainbow Dash, Rarity, this is super important, so you’ve got to listen. But first, I have to go and speak to the princess.”

"Twilight Sparkle?"

+++5 years, 11 months, 2 weeks prior+++ Main Entrance to the Palace Grounds:

Bayonet stood at his guard post, outside the Palace, trying to suppress his yawn. After all, it wouldn’t do for the common folk to see his tonsils when he’s supposed to be setting an example, but it was too hot to keep paying attention. The armour he was wearing was getting to be awfully uncomfortable, with the sun out and the sweat building up. They say you get used to it, but he never did.

“Bayonet.” A grizzled Pegasus stepped up beside him, his eyes constantly narrowed, with a silver coat. An oddity among pegasuses who were normally smaller due to the them flying, he was bigger than most earth ponies, coming up to even Princess Celestia’s shoulder.
“Grunt,” replied Bayonet. Grunt was a Pegasus of few words.
“Hot day today,” Grunt grumbled. He squinted into the sun. Bayonet shrugged.
“It’s summer.” He responded. He heard a grunt in reply.

They stood in silence for a while, before a third pony joined them. This mare was also quite large, her copper coat and short buzzcut on her mane making her stand out even among the guards.
“Hey fellas,” She greeted them with excitement. Bayonet and Grunt looked at her; Bayonet was too hot for a chat, Grunt was… well, he was called Grunt for a reason. It’s a surprise his cutie mark wasn’t three dots instead of the shield.
“Sergeant Rogue.” Bayonet saluted half-heartedly. It was too hot to do it properly. She smiled back.
“Gee… I reckon that if you’re out here any longer, that armour will make you a good baked potato.” She laughed at her own joke. Grunt remained impassive.
Bayonet kept level eye contact. “Uh huh.”

Rogue laughed for a few more seconds, before realising that neither Bayonet or Grunt were feeling up for a laugh. She leaned in conspiratorially. “Have you heard about Princess Celestia?” she whispered.
“What of her?” Grunt answered in a deep rumble. Bayonet shrugged; he hadn’t heard anything, but he wasn’t one for rumours.
“They say she’s gone mad and stays in her room fighting changelings that aren’t there.” Her eyes were alight with drama.
“And why do ‘they’ say that?” Bayonet asked, sharing a lot with Grunt, who rolled his eyes.
“I dunno. It’s true? I haven’t seen Celestia walking around, Princess Luna’s been the one doing everything.” She gave a ‘what-can-you-do?’ look and a lopsided smile.
“I’m sure whatever the royal family does is for the benefit of all. Maybe she’s trying to give Luna a chance to rule, maybe she needs a break…?” Bayonet trailed off.
“Maybe she…” Rogue started excitedly, then broke off, looking over Bayonet’s shoulder. Bayonet and Grunt turned and found a small group making their way across the busy street, their hooves clopping against the stone. Leading them was a purple unicorn with a straight cut fringe, next to her was a child dragon, a pink pony with curly hair to her right and one other.

“Well, well, it’s the Princess’s student,” she gave a low whisper.
“All the more reason to shut up then.” Grunt answered, not looking around to her.
Bayonet noticed the blue pony next to her. “Oh, bull horns. I know that one.” Rogue looked at him with an eyebrow raised.
“Forget to leave your number before you left in the morning?” She grinned.
“How about shut up.” Bayonet snapped back, before drawing himself to attention. Rogue followed his lead. Grunt remained at ease.
The lead unicorn presented herself. “Good morning. I am…” she said as she bowed, but Rogue interrupted her.
“Twilight Sparkle? You don’t need an invitation here. Just go right ahead. I’ll have Grunt escort you in.” She motioned to Grunt, who gave her a quick, flat look, before turning to the group.
“Come on then.” He trotted off, followed by the others.

One unicorn stopped for a second to look at Bayonet. “Can’t stop Trixie this time, can you?” She looked incredibly smug, and Bayonet felt a flash of irritation, which must have showed on his face, because Sergeant Rogue stepped in.
Rogue gave a big smile. “No, but he can arrest you for antagonising an agent for civil defence,” she said in a sweet voice. Trixie gave a look of disgust, before trotting after Twilight.

“That was abuse of your powers. You shouldn’t have done that.” He said to Rogue, watching Trixie leave.
“Probably not.” She shrugged.
Bayonet smiled at her. “Thank you anyway.” She smiled back dazzlingly.
“You’re welcome. Someone needs to look after you, you’re far too slow for your own good.” She stretched. “Anyway, I’ve got duties to attend to. Enjoy your shift, Officer Bayonet.” She trotted into the city.
“Why did you come here then?” He called after her.
“Don’t know. Just did.” She shouted over her shoulder before disappearing into the crowd. Bayonet simply frowned, and deciding it was too much trouble to think about, went back to looking serious and thinking nothing.

+++ Inside Canterlott Palace:

“So, Pinkie Pie, why did you come today?” Spike asked, hesitantly. “I wouldn’t have thought that this would be your sort of thing.”
“What do you mean? You’re going to talk to the Princess about danger… and monsters… and wars… and RAGHR!” She roared the last at Grunt, who was leading them. He didn’t even so much as flinch. “Ooohhh, he’s brave!” She looked back at the group, motioning to him with her hoof.
“Pinkie, please, this is serious. What we are going to pass on might save lives.” Twilight admonished her absent mindedly.
“Also, I tire of your immaturity. We are on an important mission, you could at least act like it.” Trixie added, throwing her hoof over her forehead dramatically. Spike and Pinkie Pie laughed at her.
“Oh, Twilight, relax!” Pinkie Pie gave a massive grin.
Spike patted Twilight’s shoulder. “Yeah, Twi, relax! I mean, we’re going to talk to Princess Celestia, everything will be fine.”
“I suppose you’re right,” she looked thoughtful, “but still; we mustn’t let our guard down.” Her serious face was back.
Pinkie Pie jumped next to Grunt. “We won’t let our guard down, isn’t that right?” She asked Grunt, who looked back at her. Spike laughed as he saw the contrast between the bright pink happy pony give a massive teethy smile to a silver coated, impassive pony who didn’t so much as twitch at the corners of the mouth.

“Hmmm…” He continued to give a flat look, before turning back to where he was going. Pinkie Pie continued to pull faces at him, which he ignored.

“Why did we bring her, Twilight? We’re here on important business, not entertaining children.” Trixie muttered under her breath so only they could hear.
“Because Pinkie Pie apparently believes you. Rainbow Dash and Rarity didn’t.” Twilight looked directly at her. “I thought you’d want as much support as you could get.” Twilight kept her face impassive and watched Trixie’s reactions.
Trixie’s face was surprised for a second, before returning to cool aloofness. “Is that so? Then Trixie will suffer her for a while longer.” Trixie looked thoughtfully at Pinkie for a while. Twilight inwardly smiled. Maybe they’d be friends one day…

As the party approached the throne room, Grunt turned. “Go through that door. Ask for Luna,” he said in a deep voice.
“Why Princess Luna? It’s daytime.” Twilight looked confused. Grunt didn’t answer and left without saying anything.
“What a strange fellow,” commented Spike.
“Indeed. Right, let’s go in!” Twilight declared, her horn glowing with purple magic as she opened the great doors.
Inside the great hall was white marble, wooden floors and stain-glass windows. There were gold lanterns hung everywhere, not in use at the moment. The ceiling was painted to show both Luna and Celestia dancing around each other, one half night, the other day. A red carpet led up to a throne, with two guards wearing matt black armour and purple coats. Twilight remembered they were called the “Night’s Guard.”

The throne was currently empty. Twilight walked to the guards. “I need to speak to Princess Celestia. Where can I find her?” she asked.
“You will not find her here, Twilight Sparkle.” A loud voice filled the room, echoing off the walls. Twilight turned around to notice a allicorn taller than any pony but shorter than Celestia had entered, her coat purple, her hair the night, a half-moon on her flank. Twilight and the others bowed.

“It is good you are here. I have need of you, Twilight Sparkle. It is about my sister.”