Ace Combat: The Equestrian War

by PolishValsion

Rating: teen
Tags: Derpy Hooves, Violence, Crossover, Wonderbolts, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Alternate Universe, Sad, Other, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Adventure
Length: 137589

Based on Namco's Ace Combat series of video games. No fighters or missiles, personal close combat.

The Griffin Kingdom prepares an invasion on Equestria, and when the Wonderbolts are incapacitated by two griffin aces, a group of pegasus ponies, assembled by Firefly, becomes the land's main aerial defense force, supporting each other in the hardest of times. It's a story of revenge, friendship, sadness, struggles and sacrifices, a war which will change the lives of many a pony and griffon...

Pre-read and proof-read by Rethkir

This is the first story of the mini-series "Ace Combat: Equestria Chronicles". The story takes place some time after the second season of the show.
It is not a direct adaptation of any Ace Combat game, but it contains elements and references to the following games:
- Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies
- Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War
- Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War
- Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation
- Ace Combat: Assault Horizon

The "sad" parts occur every now and then, especially after chapter 9.

All chapters in this fic, except for chapter 15, contain links leading to themes from Ace Combat series. It's used to create an atmosphere. Use "Open in new tab" to listen to these themes. Expect ponified AC characters to appear ;)

It has a sequel:
Ace Combat: Wings of Unity
as well as a follow-up spin-off:
Ace Combat: Gryphon Wings

Published 2012-05-07 01:04:02 UTC
Last updated 2012-08-27 18:31:35 UTC

Chapter 2: Flash

A lone challenger returns to the land she called home,

Aware of the evil and determined to stop it.

Seeking trustworthy allies, she forms a team,

One that legends will revere in the future.

Chapter 2

"Flash"

October 10th, 2018

1022 hrs

Ponyville, Golden Oaks library

Twilight Sparkle, a purple unicorn with immense magical talent, was doing her everyday business. With the help of her dragon assistant, Spike, she was preparing for an errand around Ponyville. None of them had the slightest idea of what was going to happen quite soon. As Twilight finished packing, she decided to double-check everything.

“Scrolls… check. Pen and ink… check. List of what-to-do… check. It’s a good thing I’m so organized,” the purple unicorn said to herself.

“Spike!” she called her assistant.

“Are we ready to go? We have a lot of stuff to do.”

“Coming!” Spike’s voice could be heard from the upper room.

“But… uh… Twilight? Can you remind me why we are doing this?” he asked.

“Oh Spike, I already told you four times. The mayor asked me to run an errand, which consists of notifying all ponies about the upcoming winter. Everypony should be preparing to harvest food, so that they’ll have supplies until spring,”

“And until you’ll help with another Winter Wrap-Up, huh?” Spike asked Twilight.

“You bet I will,” the unicorn giggled a little.

“Now, let’s go before we- Spike?”

But before Twilight could finish her sentence, Spike suddenly held his mouth. Moments later, he breathed green fire and a letter magically formed before the two.

“Oh! It’s a letter from Princess Celestia!” Twilight exclaimed.

“I wonder what she has to say.”

But as Spike took the letter and was about to read it, he noticed something unusual. This letter was given a “Lunar Seal”, a sign that it was written by Celestia’s sister, Luna. Spike pointed it out to Twilight, who urged the dragon to read the context of the letter without hesitating any longer. Spike checked the letter and read out loud:

“Dear Twilight Sparkle, I’m writing to you, as I have a very important task for you. As you probably know, the neighboring Griffin Kingdom had recently made several fortifications around their borders and started doing what appears to be military training. I fear the worst. Also, our aces from Cloudsdale, the Wonderbolts, have been attacked by two griffins a few hours ago. They sustained heavy wounds, but are alive.

Because of this, my sister and your mentor, Princess Celestia, has appointed me to notify you of this; you are charged with the task of informing the ponies in Ponyville to assemble at Canterlot Palace and await further instructions there. Make sure you will inform your friends who are representing the Elements of Harmony, too. Your help will be vital. Make haste, Twilight. In the meantime, I shall inform all the other unicorns around Equestria. We expect to hold a meeting in the palace at 1500 hours.”

Sincerely,

Princess Luna

==========

It took Twilight a couple of seconds to fully understand the message in the letter. Spike didn’t fully comprehend it, either. But suddenly, Twilight took Spike on her back and raced through the door and into Ponyville. She was panicking a little, but it was understandable. It would appear that Equestria found itself on the verge of conflict with a different race. This situation required immediate action.

“We must hurry, Spike! We only have about three hours to assemble every pony in Ponyville!”

On the way, she met the mayor and told her about the letter from Princess Luna. She acted instantly and called an emergency meeting on the town’s square. All adult ponies, and most young adults were present, some with their fillies. They listened carefully and nervously to the mayor’s speech. Meanwhile, Twilight went straight to her friends to inform them of what’s been happening. She first stopped by Sugar Cube Corner to get Pinkie Pie, a pony that was renowned for throwing the best parties in town. Twilight had no idea how Pinkie Pie would react to the fact that Equestria will not be a peaceful land any longer. Nevertheless, she went straight to Pinkie’s room.

“Pinkie Pie! I need you to come with me, stat!” the unicorn called out.

Pinkie Pie hopped down joyfully, but stopped when she saw Twilight’s serious expression.

“Is something going on, Twilight? You like you’ve just swallowed a bag of quesadilla,” the pink pony laughed.

“This is no laughing matter, Pinkie!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Come with me, I’ll explain everything on the way to Sweet Apple Acres!”

Pinkie didn’t really know what was going on, but she shrugged and started to run alongside Twilight. Spike then told Pinkie about the letter from Princess Luna. For that moment, Pinkie Pie had probably the most serious face possible, and looked truly worried.

“So, I’m guessing that those griffins aren’t coming down to party, hm?” she asked.

While the question did made Twilight smile a little and she thought: “She’s just being Pinkie Pie,” she replied in a worried tone, too.

“I’m afraid not, Pinkie. We need to find the rest of our friends and go to Canterlot. Both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are going to hold a meeting there. Could you go get Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, while I’ll inform Applejack and Rarity? It will be faster this way,” the purple unicorn suggested.

“Okey-dokey-lokey!”

Pinkie ran to the outskirts of town and towards Fluttershy’s cottage, while Twilight made her way to the Carousel Boutique, where Rarity was living with her younger sister, Sweetie Belle. Hearing this commotion made the white unicorn initially thought that it was another prank from Pinkie Pie, but when she saw the letter from the princess that Spike had with him all the time, she understood the seriousness of the situation.

“Sweetie, I want you to head to the school. You should stay there with Cheerilee, she’ll take care of you until I get back,” Rarity told the filly.

Sweetie wanted to stay with her sister at first, but after a bit of persuasion, she knew that it would be better otherwise. After Twilight and Rarity saw Sweetie off to school, they immediately ran to Sweet Apple Acres, when Applejack was usually bucking the trees to make apples fall.

The second she saw Twilight and Rarity rushing to her, she stopped doing just that.

“What in tarnation?” she asked in her typical fashion.

Spike briefly explained that Princess Luna had called all ponies of Ponyville to Canterlot for an emergency meeting. Applejack didn’t need to learn more; she knew something bad was going to happen. They ran back to the town square, where they saw numerous ponies assembled by the mayor. Although Twilight wanted to wait for Pinkie, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, she knew that time was of the essence. The ponies began leaving the town toward Canterlot, Equestria’s capital. While most of the ponies left their children in school under Cherilee’s care, some took children with them, explaining that it would be a chance for them to see the Princesses, and their parents didn’t want to worry their kids about the possible war. It was understandable. Nopony was ever wishing for war to take place in Equestria, but now that the danger was real, they had to do their best to protect it.

While Twilight led the ponies to Canterlot, Pinkie managed to reach Fluttershy’s cottage with ease and told her everything she knew. The yellow pegasus was initially terrified by a mere thought of a war happening in Equestria, fearing for the safety of her animal friends. But Pinkie convinced Fluttershy to come along, and they went to find Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy flew to her house, but to her surprise, she didn’t find the rainbow-maned pegasus anywhere. She returned to Pinkie, who pondered what to do next:

“Well, it seems Dashie is out there, having fun. Fluttershy, do you have any clue where she would go? Cause if I were her, I would definitely go to Sugarcube Corner... Hey, maybe we should go there too, huh? She might be there!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Um... honestly, Pinkie... I... I don’t think Rainbow is there. She... did mention she will be out today, but I didn’t know she meant the whole day... I have no idea where could she be...” Fluttershy said nervously.

Pinkie shrugged it off again.

“Oh well, Dashie will eventually come. She never misses big events like this. Come on, let’s go see Twilight and the others,” the pink pony started to run back into town.

“I only hope you’re right, Pinkie,” Fluttershy thought.

She looked to the distance, like she would hope to see Rainbow Dash coming. But, after a while, she followed Pinkie Pie.

==========

1245 hrs

Ponyville airspaceRainbow Dash was completely unaware of what was happening. Her mind was focused solely on improving her flying routine. She was glad that the Wonderbolts finally noticed her, so she was busy everyday with making more and more daring tricks. Of course, she didn’t forget about her responsibilities with the weather. Rainbow might have been a little lazy, but she never kept Ponyville or her friends waiting. She just finished doing a triple air somersault and decided to take a short break.

“Phew. All this flying and swirling made me thirsty. Maybe I should visit Applejack for some sweet juice,” she thought to herself.

Rainbow was just about to take flight to Sweet Apple Acres, when suddenly; she noticed several silhouettes in the distance. She analyzed the situation.

“Huh, who could that be? They don’t look like ponies, they’re too big. There’s at least five of them.”

She also noticed they were coming her way. Rainbow decided to hide in the nearest cloud, seeing this as an opportunity to play a little prank on these unknown fellows. But when they came closer, she looked shocked. They were griffins.

Rainbow remained in the clouds, seemingly unnoticed by them. The five griffins stopped and started talking. Each of them was wearing green vests, bearing numbers from 1 to 5.

“Hey, is this Equestria yet?” one of them, his vest bearing #3, asked.

“I sure hope so. We’ve been flying for the past two hours. And I don’t see any mountains nearby either... except that lone peak over there,” the griffon with #4 pointed to a tall, black mountain in the distance.

“Oh yeah, did you know that a dragon used to live there?” the griffon with #2 joined.

“Used to? Why isn’t it there anymore?” the griffon with #3 asked.

The griffin wearing a vest with #1 chuckled.

“Y’know, it’s a funny story. Apparently, one of the ponies, a pegasus pony to be exact, convinced that dragon to leave the cave, because its snoring was causing smoke to cover Equestria.”

Hearing this story, his comrades started laughing. The one wearing #2 laughed the loudest.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Scythe. There’s no way any pony could persuade a dragon to leave a cave!”

Rainbow heard that and was about to tell him how wrong he was, but decided to remain hidden for the time being. The griffon, apparently named Scythe, approached his comrade, yet spoke to everyone.

“I’ll have you know, ponies are unusual creatures. They may have talents and skills beyond our comprehension. We should not underestimate them.”

The griffon with #3 jumped in.

“Don’t sweat it, Scythe. Unlike us, they have no real combat experience. We’ll beat them easily, and Equestria will be ours.”

“WHAT?!”

Rainbow Dash suddenly appeared before the five griffins, completely shocked. They, too, seemed to be surprised, seeing a pegasus pony appear all of a sudden.

“How long do you think she’s been listening to our conversation, Scythe?” the griffon with #5 asked.

“I don’t know Razor, but it doesn't matter. The plan is already in motion and she can’t stop it.”

Rainbow turned her attention to Scythe.

“What did you say? You plan to take over Equestria? Are you guys insane?!” the rainbow-maned pegasus yelled at them.

The griffins looked at each other and Razor chuckled.

“Funny. Black Star mentioned that he met three pegasus ponies earlier this morning who said the same thing. And he took care of them easily.”

“Yeah, what were they called again? The Rubberbolts?” griffon #2 asked mockingly.

“No Vulture, the Clutzerbolts,” griffon #4 laughed.

“I swear, those ponies are always at least two steps behind us. Should’ve seen the looks on their faces. Priceless, I tell you!”

Rainbow had no idea what were they talking about. She demanded answers, but something suddenly hit her, when they ended each name with “bolts”.

“What did you do to the Wonderbolts?!” Rainbow exclaimed angrily.

The griffins turned their attention to her again.

“Wonderbolts? So, that’s how you call them. I don’t think they deserve that title,” said Razor.

“Black Star and Red Cyclone had no trouble with taking them down at all. Which is a shame, really. They were our only worthy opponents.”

The rainbow-maned pegasus could not believe what she just heard. Wonderbolts, her beloved heroes, were defeated? This couldn’t be true... Dash had no idea what to do. She was bombarded with numerous feelings; at one end, she wanted to fight the griffins and make them pay, but on the other hand, she knew she wouldn’t be able to defeat all five of them.

Scythe once again spoke to the worried pegasus.

“Oh, don’t worry, they’re still alive. It wouldn’t be fun to conquer your land without them watching it all helplessly.”

The griffins laughed again. But Rainbow Dash had enough. As long as she was alive, no one would conquer Equestria. She knew that she had only two options: to stay and fight or to run. But running away was something Rainbow never considered an option. She spread her wings and an angry look was formed on her face, as she said:

“So, you think you can just fly in and take over Equestria?! Well, not on my watch!”

The griffins were more than amused by that bold statement.

“What’s that? You want to fight us, the Talon squadron, all by yourself?” Vulture roared with laughter.

“We’re one of the best scout units The Griffin Kingdom has to offer. You can’t compare to us all, let alone one.”

Rainbow Dash didn’t care. Her friends were far away from her, and she had no way to contact them. She also knew that she would not be able to stand up to five griffins. But she believed that perishing in combat would be better than a shameful escape. In ancient times, pegasi were renowned as great warriors, and Rainbow Dash had drops of that blood in her veins.

She prepared herself for battle...

==========

But then, moments after Vulture finished talking, he was suddenly hit by something and thrown back. His comrades looked around, completely surprised. They didn’t see anything coming. Rainbow wasn’t sure what happened either.

“You forgot one vital detail, guys. She’s not alone!”

A determined female voice could have been heard nearby. Then, a bright flash zoomed right in front of them, and stopped. It was a pink pegasus with a blue mane and purple eyes. Vulture looked angrily at his attacker.

“You’ve got guts attacking me. But, you’ll regret it!”

He instantly charged at the mysterious pegasus, but she dodged the attack easily. She then turned her attention to Rainbow Dash.

“Mind if I join in? We should show these feathered fellas a lesson they won’t soon forget,” she said, with her voice sounding not older than a young adult.

Rainbow wasn’t sure how to respond at first, but despite the questions in her head, she asked:

“Who... are you?”

The pegasus looked a little surprised.

“What, you don’t know me? Well... can’t blame you. I haven’t been in Equestria for five years. I’d like to tell you more, but after we take care of these uninvited guests.”

“Says you!”

Vulture charged at the pegasus again, but this time, she didn’t dodge. Instead, she flew directly at him and smashed in his head with her front legs. Screaming, Vulture plummeted down. Two of his comrades went to catch him, while Razor tried to strike the pink pegasus, but Rainbow intercepted him with a swift attack. They fought for a while, each trying to avoid attacks and counter at the best moment. The pink pegasus took on Scythe.

“You appear to be quite a skilled flier,” he commented on the pegasus.

“Thanks. It’s always nice to hear a compliment from the enemy,” she replied.

“So, you think of us as enemies?” Scythe asked.

The pink pegasus tried to hit him, as she said:

“Of course. You attack Equestria not in hopes of expanding your territory, but to take it over!” the blue-maned flier exclaimed.

Scythe tried to ignore that.

“We simply do what our general told us to do. It’s nothing personal.”

“Don’t give me that crap!” the pegasus yelled.

The fought between each other, displaying great dodging and aerial skills. After five minutes, Scythe decided that enough time was wasted already.

“Talon squadron, retreat. We’re going back to Gryphus!”

Vulture just regained consciousness and was openly against it, but he didn’t want to argue with his leader. Razor broke away from Rainbow Dash and rejoined his comrades, who soon left the airspace. Rainbow sighed in relief. The pink pegasus approached her.

“You okay?”

“Yeah,” Rainbow replied.

“Thanks. If it weren’t for you, I might have not made it.”

“The pleasure is mine. But rest assured, we will see them again,” the stranger warned.

“So, who are you?” Rainbow asked again.

“You really don’t remember me, do you, Rainbow Dash?”

That question surprised Dash. This pegasus knew her name.

“Ah well, perhaps my cutie mark will remind you of something,”

Saying this, she turned to the side and showed Rainbow her cutie mark. Two blue lightning bolts.

Dash gasped. She remembered seeing a similar pegasus in a gallery of famous Cloudsdale fliers!

“No way! You’re...?!”

“That’s right,” the pink pegasus nodded.

“My name’s Firefly. And it’s good to be back home.”

Rainbow tried to say something, but all she could say was a quiet “Wow”. Firefly laid her purple eyes on Rainbow Dash and said:

“We gotta get to Canterlot, fast. Something big is going to happen. Can you lead me there?”

“S-Sure thing!” Rainbow led the pink pegasus to the Equestrian capital. Just in time...

==========

1545 hrs

Canterlot CastlePrincess Celestia was just reaching the final moments of her speech. Over 300 ponies were assembled in the entire palace, and they heard every word the sun princess spoke very clearly. Luna was sitting by her side all the time, but didn’t said a single word so far.

“... therefore, as of today, I’ve decided, along with my sister, Princess Luna...” at this point, Luna stood up, “...that Equestria needs a proper defense against the upcoming griffin invasion. We don’t know exactly what their motives are, but it is clear that they plan to attack us. We shall form a military force, which shall be known as the Equestrian Allied Forces or EAF, for short. We shall now begin forming the organization within the unit.”

Within an hour, the ponies managed to assemble a properly structured army, consisting of battalions, divisions, squadrons, brigades and companies. It would be clearly seen that some ponies were reluctant to join into any military affairs, but they realized that Equestria was in danger, and they couldn’t ignore it. Princesses Celestia and Luna then begun to assign leaders and commanders to various groups and divisions.

As expected, the Elements of Harmony were the first ones to be assigned. Twilight Sparkle, being a genius organizer and Celestia’s most trusted student, was given the leadership over the 42nd Unicorn Division, while Rarity was granted the 18th Unicorn Company. Applejack was given the 10th Earth Pony Brigade, with Pinkie Pie leading the 7th Earth Pony Company. However, there was a problem with pegasus ponies. With the Wonderbolts out of commission, the air force was disorganized and without an actual leader. Princess Luna then thought of something.

“Sister, mayhap we should entrust the pegasus ponies to Phalanx, one of our royal guards?”

“You certainly have a point, Luna, but I’m more concerned by the fact that Rainbow Dash isn’t here. And I know that Fluttershy wouldn’t like to take command over anypony. I can tell she’s scared. If only there was-”

Suddenly, the door to the main chamber slammed open. Rainbow Dash flew through them, but the initial cheering was soon abruptly cut short when everypony saw Firefly flying alongside Rainbow. Many were wondering who it could be; they apparently didn’t recognize her.

The pink pegasus took a glimpse around her and noticed two large stained-glass windows depicting a group of six ponies defeating Nightmare Moon and the god of Chaos, Discord. One of these ponies looked almost exactly like Rainbow. She also noticed another winged unicorn standing besides Princess Celestia and figures it was Luna, her younger sister. Near the thrones, two earth ponies, unicorns and one pegasus stood by. They, too, looked similar to those from the stained-glass windows.

“Wow, a lot must have happened when I was away...” Firefly thought to herself.

Following Rainbow Dash, she approached the princesses and bowed before them. Rainbow Dash did the same and looked at the Royal Sisters.

“Beg pardon, Princess Celestia, Luna. I hope I haven’t arrived too late. We had to deal with several griffins, who were apparently scouts,” Rainbow came closer and explained.

“No, Rainbow, you are just in time. We were just about to assign leaders to the pegasus ponies and their units,” said the sun princess.

Firefly lifted her head and asked:

“So, it is already settled? The military force is formed?”

Some were shocked to hear this stranger ask the princess so informally, but Luna replied.

“Indeed. The Equestrian Allied Forces, or EAF, for short.”

Firefly smiled and turned to Celestia.

“My princess, if it isn’t too much of a trouble, may I ask you something?”

“But of course, feel free to ask me anything,” Celestia responded.

“I would like you to grant me permission to form my own fighter squadron for the upcoming war.”

The reaction of the ponies, especially the royal guards, was predictable; they were outright disturbed by this proposition, fearing it would bring confusion into the ranks. But Princess Celestia looked at the pink pegasus and her face was filled with delight.

“You have my permission, Firefly. Your team will be formally known as the 2nd Air Division, 179th Tactical Pegasus Squadron. How you will name it and who shall fly in it is entirely up to you.”

“Firefly?”

“Did she just say Firefly?”

“Unbelievable!”

“Is it really her?”

That name made several ponies, especially the pegasus ponies, jump in surprise. They started whispering between each other. Firefly noticed it and flew up, so that everypony could see her, then said out loud:

“That’s right. My name is Firefly. I have returned to Equestria after five years, when I left on a journey to hone my skills and abilities. Now, I have returned to protect the land I call home from the imminent attack by the enemy. And I ask you, pegasus ponies; would any of you like to join my squadron? I’ll be needing a group of brave, valiant pegasi that are not afraid to stand up to our enemies. It’s a fact that they are well-prepared for this war, but I have vital information about their plans. And I shall deliver them to both princesses after this meeting. But for now, I ask you again; are there any pegasi here that are wishing to defend Equestria against any possible threat?”

The chamber fell silent for a moment, until Rainbow Dash said:

“You don’t even have to ask, Firefly. I’ll join your squadron. There is no way I’m going to let the griffins take over Equestria. And I will pay them back for what they did to Wonderbolts!”

Firefly grinned.

“I knew I could count on you, Rainbow Dash. In that case, I’m happy to welcome you as a part of my team,” they clashed their hooves as a sign of friendship.

“Do you have any particular request for a callsign?” Firefly asked.

Rainbow Dash thought for a moment, but ultimately said:

“I’ll just stick with Rainbow.”

Firefly laughed.

“Yeah, it’s got a nice ring to it.”

She then turned to the pegasus ponies again.

“Alright. Is there anypony else who is interested in joining us?”

After a short silence, a lone pegasus left the crowd and approached them. She had a white coat, with a blue mane and eyes. They made her seem determined.

“I want to join you. I can’t stand the fact that someone wants to invade our land. I will do anything in my might to aid you.”

“Well, alright, but how exactly can you help us?” Firefly responded.

“I’m well acquainted with technology and strategy,” the white pegasus answered.

Firefly thought for a second and turned to Rainbow Dash.

“You probably know majority of the pegasus ponies here. What do you think, will she be a good wingmare?”

Rainbow, instead of answering, approached the pegasus and smiled.

“It’d be awesome to have you on our side, Lightning Bolt.”

The white pegasus gave a friendly smile to Firefly, and that sealed the deal.

“OK, then. You’re a part of our team. Your callsign will be...”

She took a glimpse on Bolt’s cutie mark and announced:

“Thunder.”

Just then, another pegasus stepped out of the crowd. It had a violet coat with yellow mane. She seemed to be excited.

“Wait, if Lightning Bolt is joining you, I want to come, too. We’re best friends; where she goes, I go too!”

Lightning Bolt approached her.

“But, Cloud Kicker, I don’t think that’s a good idea. We’ll most likely be involved in a lot of dangerous situations.”

“Exactly”, Cloud Kicker replied.

“You’ll be needing somepony to keep an eye on you. I’ve got a great sense of hearing and sight,” she told Firefly.

“Sounds good to me. Alright, you’ll be designated as...” - again, she looked at the pony’s cutie mark, which had a sun hiding behind a cloud - “Sunny. Let’s see, we could use one more pony and that would be it, for now. We need to get used to each other. Any recommendations, Rainbow?”

“Yeah, I’ve got somepony in mind,” said Rainbow.

“While she may not like violence and war, I’m certain she’ll be a great support for us, Firefly.”

“Then tell me”, the pink pegasus said.

“Tell me the name of that pegasus.”

“...Fluttershy.”

The quiet and timid yellow pegasus stepped toward the others. She appeared to be startled.
Firefly wasn’t sure.

“I know what you’re thinking,” Rainbow jumped in.

“I, too, used to think that Fluttershy was afraid of her own shadow. But, in time of need, she can be a great ally.”

Rainbow leaned closer to Firefly and whispered to her ear.

“She forced a dragon to leave the cave on the Dragon Mountain just by talking to him.”

“You’re kidding! Is that true?” the pink pegasus asked Fluttershy.

“Um... yes... but I did it because he was threatening my friends.”

Firefly patted Fluttershy on the back.

“That’s proof enough for me. You’re in, Butterfly.”

The pink pegasus then turned to the princesses.

“I believe the squadron forming is complete, Your Highnesses.”

They both nodded and asked Firefly how will the squadron be called. She didn’t answer at first, but after a while, she announced:

“Our team shall be known as... Mirage.”

She turned to her new friends.

“I haven’t been here for quite some time. Could you give me a short tour before we go to our base in Cloudsdale?”

“You got it, Firefly,” Rainbow Dash responded.

The pink pegasus turned to her, saying she wished to have “Flash” as a callsign, to signify her great agility. The sights of numerous ponies were seeing the five fliers over as they were leaving the chamber. Princess Celestia thought to herself:

“I’m glad to see that she returned. With the Mirage squadron, Equestria might prevail.”

==========

1937 hrs

Gryphus, Griffin Throne RoomGeneral Silverbeak, the leader of the Griffin Army, was receiving the report from Scythe and his wingman about their encounter with Rainbow Dash and Firefly.

“And that’s the current situation, sir,” Scythe concluded.

“They’re fully aware of our plans, now. We might be expecting some resistance from those equines.”

“Cursed pink pegasus!” Vulture exclaimed, while checking his wound.

“She dared to attack me! The next time I’ll meet her...!”

General Silverbeak rose his right wing.

“Restraint, Vulture. It’s because of your behavior that you are in the current state. While I understand your desire to bring glory to our kingdom, you must not forget; a soldier must always be focused on his opponent. Doing otherwise will result in defeat.”

He then stood up from his throne and walked to the window, overlooking the mountains. It was already nightfall. The griffins from the Talon squadron had no idea what he was thinking about, but when he turned to them, they heard him well.

“We will wait and see what they’re up to. And whoever that pink pegasus is, take extra caution around her. I feel that this pegasus and her wingmares won’t make our campaign an easy one. If things go the wrong way, we might be forced to use the... ultimate solution.”

The griffins from the Talon squadron didn't know what their general meant, but said solution would one day prove to be truly frightening. He hoped that it would be enough to end the war. But he was unaware that the ponies were capable of great feats, especially during their darkest hours. This conflict was going to be engraved in the minds of many.

Chapter 4: My Resolve

The plan is put in motion by the enemy,

But two brave ponies attempt to oppose it.

One out of love for someone precious to her,

The other purely out of adoration for another.

Chapter 4

"My Resolve”

November 6th, 2018

0800 hrs
Ponyville “Dinky, hurry up, dear! You don’t want to be late for school, do you?”

The voice of a young mare was heard in the front hall of a seemingly regular house. A pegasus pony with a grey coat, yellow mane and slightly crossed-eyes was calling for her little daughter. In a matter of seconds, a violet unicorn filly, whose mane was also yellow, came in running. She was already prepared to leave for what would seem as another normal day in school.

While her pegasus mother was checking if she didn’t forget anything, she then noticed the filly was holding a paper in her mouth.

“What you’ve got in there, Dinky?” the pegasus asked. “Is that a picture for the art class?”

The unicorn responded with a giggle, at first.

“No, Mommy. We don’t even have the art class today to begin with. I just drew this the other day and wanted to show it to you before I go. Here.”

Saying this, she gave the drawing to her mother. Initially, she just seemed to stare into it, but then, her face was lightened up with a big, warm smile. The picture was showing both ponies, cuddling. It also had a words written in its lower right corner: “I love you, mommy.” She looked at Dinky and her eyes were full of joy, even if they seemed a little sad. After all, the pegasus was taking care of her daughter by herself; the unicorn’s father was either deceased or missing.

The mare hugged her child tight.

“You always know how to make me smile, Dinky. I’ll be sure to place it next to your last drawing. Now, run along. When you come back, we’ll make some muffins together.”

The filly responded with a loud “Yay!”, and started to run toward the school. As the pegasus was seeing her daughter off, she couldn’t help but to smile. Although she was viewed by some ponies as “weird”, Dinky saw her as the most wonderful mother in whole Equestria. Yet she wasn’t much troubled on how she was viewed by others. To her, the little filly she just talked with was her most beloved treasure.

The grey mare sighed, putting Dinky’s picture next to some artwork she made earlier. She was just about to return to her daily business, when suddenly...

“MOMMY!”

Dinky’s screaming sounded mere seconds later. Not knowing what was happening, the grey pegasus turned around and quickly ran outside. At first, everything seemed to be in total chaos. She could only grasp an image of griffins swooping from the skies down on the streets. It took her awhile to notice they were trying to grab the fillies that were just sent by their parents to school.

One of the assailants was lying on the ground, frozen to the bone. A blue unicorn with an hourglass as a cutie mark and a wavy mane was shooting beams of cold energy at them, trying to ward them off.

Another pony, an earth one, spotted the pegasus and approached her.

“Derpy! Something horrible is happening. We must protect the fillies! Those griffins are trying to take them away!”

“But, Carrot, why would they...” Derpy started.

The pony cut her short.

“You didn’t hear what the princesses warned us about?”

Derpy was silent. She never thought any serious incidents would happen in Ponyville.

“Well, do what you want, but I’m not going to just sit here and watch as their taking our little ponies away!” Saying this, the blue unicorn, called Colgate, shot an ice beam which hit another griffon, paralyzing him with sheer cold and making him fall. The other griffon had defrosted already and fled the area.

The pegasus looked around in horror, but didn’t noticed Dinky anywhere. She started running forward, shouting the filly’s name. Then, three griffins caught her sight. Each of them carried a little pony in its claws. One of them was Dinky.

Derpy rushed toward them, but they laughed at her attempt to catch her and instantly flew up. The grey pegasus, however, used to such situations, took a leap and flew toward them, slightly surprising the feathered captors. Derpy’s eyes were squinted so much that one would never guess she was cross-eyed. They looked perfectly normal... and furious.

“Give that filly back!” she shouted to the griffins.

“And what if we refuse?” the one on the right asked.

Derpy firstly looked at Dinky. She appeared to be unconscious. This only fueled her rage.

“Release her, or you’ll regret ever coming here!” the grey pegasus yelled.

The griffins looked at each other, and the one in the center flew toward Derpy.

“I can see that you care about her. You must be her mother.”

“Of course I am!” Derpy replied.

The griffon’s face widened with a grin.

“Then, I’m sorry, but I’m afraid I cannot comply to your request. You!”

He motioned to the griffon who was holding Dinky in his claws.

“You go back to Gryphus immediately. We need to make sure she won’t be following us,” the other griffin came closer.

But Derpy didn’t want to let go.

“I’ll say it again: release my daughter! Why would you want to take her anyway?” she asked.

“That’s... classified. Our general’s orders”, the griffon in the middle answered.

It sounded like a cruel joke.

“Go!” he told his companion.

The griffon with Dinky in his claws started to leave the area, but Derpy immediately rushed to him, hitting his rear and making him drop the unicorn filly. Derpy quickly descended, trying to catch Dinky, but she was intercepted by the other two griffins. The third captor quickly recovered the filly, but also made her wake up. She saw Derpy, fighting against the two griffins.

“Mommy!” she shouted to the grey pegasus.

This caught her off-guard, and the two attacked without hesitation. Derpy’s right wing was slashed, and she received a strong hit from the other griffon’s beak. Although wounded, she had no intention of surrendering. The three captors decided that the best option for now would be to retreat, since they already had what they came for. Derpy saw them trying to fly away and tried to give chase, but due to her damaged wing, she was unable to maintain effective speed. She started to lose the sight of Dinky, and her cries for help were growing weaker and weaker.

Finally, exhausted and battered, Derpy could no longer hear or see her daughter. She still tried to fly in the direction the griffins took off, but her sight was blurred by the tears. The gray pegasus kept whispering her daughter’s name, trying to remain conscious despite constantly losing balance and strength.

It was then that Firefly’s team came flying by. Thanks to their defense at Hoofington and several successful sorties they have been officially recognized as a unit of the Equestrian Allied Forces. The five pegasi were now sent to Ponyville to investigate recent reports about enemy movement in the region. They noticed Derpy’s irregular flight and tried to reach her.

“Hey! What’s going on here?” Rainbow Dash asked.

The winged mare didn’t respond at first, but turned her sight to the rainbow pegasus. She appeared to be desperate.

“Those griffins... they took some fillies from Ponyville... and my daughter, too!”

She panted heavily. “Wait, I... remember you”, Fluttershy jumped in. “You’re Derpy, aren’t you? You say the griffins kidnapped the fillies?”

“Yes... I... I tried to stop them, but...”

The gray mare’s voice broke down. She could only cry out of helplessness. Fluttershy and Cloud Kicker tried to comfort her. Firefly looked into the distance.

“So, our reports were correct. See? I told you the griffins were going to kidnap fillies and use them as hostages,” she told the others.

“But Flash, we still don’t know the reason behind those actions,” Lightning Bolt pointed out reasonably.

“Whatever the reason, it’s not important. What matters now is that we need to find out where the griffins are headed and try to intercept them.”

She turned her sight to Derpy.

“Say, do you know anything?”

Derpy calmed down a bit and tried to answer Firefly’s question.

“They... took three fillies with them. Each griffon had one. They said they’re going back to Gryphus... at least, that’s what I heard. All I wanted was to save my little Dinky... but I failed.”

Her eyes filled with tears again. Rainbow Dash got closer to her.

“Get a hold of yourself. You don’t have to worry, we’ll catch up to the griffins in no time! Right, Firefly?”

The pink pegasus was about to reply, but she received new reports through her radio communicator. And she definitely wasn’t pleased with them. She looked at the others.

“We’ve got a little problem. It seems a different group of griffins is trying a similar assault near Trottingham. If we are to recover both the fillies from Ponyville and prevent the other attack, we’ll need to split into two teams. I’ll lead the first one, while Rainbow will lead the second.”

“Hey, no sweat!” Rainbow replied with vigor. “I’ll take Cloud Kicker and Fluttershy with me.”

“Actually...” said Firefly, “I was planning to go with Fluttershy, if that’s OK with you. Like you said, I need to get to know her better.”

Rainbow understood and assured Firefly that even with only Cloud Kicker, they would still recover the fillies. But Derpy didn’t want to be left behind. Her whole life turned upside down.

“Please, let me come with you. I have to save my daughter!”

“Look, I understand how you feel,” Lightning Bolt tried to reason, “but you’ll only slow us down with your damaged wing. Leave everything to us. I promise we’ll bring the fillies back.”

“No!” Derpy opposed. “I must go! I have to redeem myself. My daughter is everything to me! If I don’t get her back...!”

Firefly sighed.

“Give me a break! What’s with all this drama?”

The other pegasi looked at her, shocked, maybe even outraged. Firefly appeared to be completely unmoved by the situation. Her eyesight appeared really cold.

Rainbow once again took point before things got worse.

“Don’t bring up additional issues, Flash. Actually, I’ve got an idea. How about you take Lightning Bolt and Derpy after the griffins, while I’ll lead the others to stop the attack on Trottingham. Trust me, I think that’s a good solution.”

Firefly thought for a moment.

“You know that I trust you completely, Rainbow Dash. Fine, I approve of your suggestion. I just hope that nothing bad will happen.”

She turned to Derpy again.

“By the way... you said there were three griffins... and you took on them by yourself?!”

The gray mare looked at her.

“Of course I did! How would you act if your daughter was kidnapped by someone? That is, if you would ever had one. I will not stop until I’ll get Dinky back!”

The pink pegasus approached her and was seemingly looking ashamed. Derpy’s words made her feel respect for her determination.

“Looks like I’ve made another misplaced judgment... You know, you might have what it takes to become one of us. What do you say?”

This sudden proposition shocked the team, but Derpy remained unflinching.

“I’ll help you, if you will help me. Simple as that. There’s no pony dearer to me in entire Equestria. I want to save Dinky... and make those griffins pay.”

“Perfect!” Firefly exclaimed.

“From now on, your callsign shall be “Ditzy”.

She appeared a little different than others to Firefly, but in a positive sense.

“Alright, let’s stop wasting time and get busy!” she motioned to other ponies.

“Rainbow, take Butterfly and Sunny and stop the griffins at Trottingham. I, Thunder and Ditzy will rescue the Ponyville fillies.”

“Roger that! Move out, everypony!” Rainbow called to her wingmates.

The team took off in two different directions.

==========

0927 hrs

Trottingham airspace

As Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Cloud Kicker were approaching Trottingham, they were discussing their newest addition to the team.

“She took on three griffins by herself... can’t tell if she’s brave, or just crazy,” Rainbow muttered.

“Derpy tried to save her daughter... It... must be really hard for her,” said Fluttershy.

“No kidding... Didn’t she hear what the princesses were announcing? Everypony were supposed to be more careful since yesterday.”

Cloud Kicker reached Rainbow through her communicator.

“You think that information didn’t reached her?”

“Dunno. Maybe she thought it was nothing serious. After all, no incidents occurred near Ponyville until now. But, we’ll talk about it later. We’re getting closer to Trottingham.”

Initially, it seemed the griffins were nowhere in sight, but the small radar that Cloud Kicker had with her started to show three pulsing red dots, undoubtedly hinting the approaching enemies.

“Rainbow, are we gonna hide in clouds and wait for them again?” she asked the rainbow pegasus, who shook her head in denial.

“There’s no point. We’ll take them head-on. We shouldn’t be giving them any quarter this time. You understand, Fluttershy?” she asked her friend.

The yellow pegasus nodded.

“What they did and try to do is unforgivable. We must do our best to stop them.”

“Good. That’s what I wanted to hear. Let’s go, team!”

Rainbow led Fluttershy and Cloud Kicker to perform a preemptive attack on the upcoming captors. They were unaware that a young green pegasus was following them, her eyes focused on Rainbow Dash...

Within a short time, Rainbow’s team ran into the three griffins who were approaching Trottingham’s airspace. The looks on their faces suggested that they weren’t expecting anypony to “greet” them like this.

“Going somewhere, boys? Not to kidnap some fillies, I hope?” Rainbow asked the feathered soldiers with a dose of sarcasm.

One of them approached the pegasi.

“I won’t ask how you’ve learned about our plan, but here is no way you can stop us. We have our orders and we will execute them!” he proclaimed, extending his wings and preparing for battle.

“Girls, those on the sides are yours. I’ll deal with this one,” Rainbow told Cloud Kicker and Fluttershy.

They acknowledged and flew toward the griffins, trying to prevent them from advancing. This time, neither of the pegasi were intending to hold back. The assailants saw their determination, but engaged them without any second thoughts troubling them. At first, they were apparently trying to wear Rainbow and her friends out by repeatedly performing air jousting maneuvers. But neither Fluttershy nor Cloud Kicker appeared to be fazed by them. Rainbow was doing fine by herself; the other two fliers cooperated well.

It seemed the situation was under control, until one of the griffins broke out of Cloud Kicker’s range and started descending down at high speeds. Rainbow was busy fighting the third griffon, and although Fluttershy and Cloud tried, they couldn’t catch up to the griffin. It seemed as if he would begin to wreak havoc in Trottingham at any moment, and if the ponies would try to catch him, the other griffins would fly down as well, increasing the havoc.

But, just then, the griffon that was descending was struck hard and staggered away from his course. Everyone stopped fighting for a moment. Rainbow noticed that a green pegasus just entered the combat zone and it was looking at her now.

“Mind if I lend a helping hoof?” the young mare asked.

Her voice was filled with youthful enthusiasm.

“Uh... Yeah, why not,” Rainbow said, as she shoved her opponent aside and approached the new pegasus. She seemed to be staring into Rainbow, who asked:

“Who are you?”

“The name’s Medley. You’re Rainbow Dash, right? I figured you and your friends were on an important mission. So, I decided to seek you out and help you in any way possible.”

As the green pegasus introduced herself, a big grin formed on her face. Rainbow, though slightly uncertain, returned the smile. Cloud Kicker and Fluttershy approached her too, and got acquainted with her rather fast. The griffins tried to use this moment as an attempt to escape the ponies and carry out their plan, but their way was blocked by Rainbow’s team, now supported by Medley. They fought for several minutes, with the green pegasus fighting beside Rainbow all the time.

The griffins ultimately decided to abandon their plan and return back to The Griffin Kingdom. Rainbow immediately contacted Firefly.

“Flash! This is Rainbow, do you read me? We’ve managed to defend Trottingham. No filly was taken by the enemy.”

Firefly’s voice seemed relieved at first, but sounded frustrated moments later.

“That’s good news. We’ve managed to track the griffins, but they hid in an area with strong magnetic resonances. Our tracking devices are useless. We could really use Sunny’s great sight right now. The problem is, that area we’re at is quite large...”

“Hold on a second.”

Rainbow turned to Medley.

“You’re bright-eyed?”

“Sure, I am. Just tell me what to find, and I’ll try my best to locate it,” the green pegasus responded.

“Great. Hey, Firefly, I think I’ve found another member for our team. I’ll introduce her to you once we make it to the rendezvous point. Give us the location,” she told the leader.

“You got it. Transmitting coordinates now.”

In a few seconds, Rainbow and her friends knew where Firefly and her team was waiting. They flew there to meet them.

==========

1319 hrs

Equestrian airspace

Firefly’s team, with a very worried Derpy, was waiting for Rainbow’s squad. Lightning Bolt already bandaged Derpy's wing. They saw the rest of the fliers approaching after a while. The pink pegasus looked closely at the new recruit Rainbow Dash met. After a couple more minutes, she learned that Medley was somewhat idolizing her, similar to the way the pegasus of loyalty looked up to the Wonderbolts.

“It’s true that I think of Rainbow Dash as an awesome pony, but honestly, who wouldn’t say that?” Medley asked when Firefly finished questioning her.

“Yeah, well, if you’ll prove to me that you tell the truth about your great sight, I’ll consider letting you join our team. Sunny, help her in the search,” she told Cloud Kicker.

The two pegasi begun searching around the area. Medley even did a classic espionage tactic, which involved hiding behind trees.

It proved useful, as she managed to locate griffins in the forest within thirty minutes. She overheard them talking:

“I still can’t believe our general approved of that idea. Using kids as hostages? This is outrageous!” one of the kidnappers complained.

His companion, came closer and stared into his eyes.

“Hey, I don’t approve of it either. This entire concept is beyond ridiculous. But some commanders say this might trade Equestria for the fillies’ lives. Basically, when the ponies would find out we’re keeping their children, they would slowly lose the will to resist, fearing for their safety. They would ultimately surrender. At least, that’s what they say in HQ. And yet, I start to think we’re doing the exact opposite,” the griffon in a red vest bearing #1 concluded his statement with a worried tone.

“And what exactly do you mean by that, Edge?” the griffin who was holding Dinky asked.

“It means that instead of draining ponies’ will, we’re actually fueling them. I was one of the many captains speaking against such tactics. But I can’t do anything as long as Black Star and Red Cyclone are in charge. They fail to see that their ideas will backfire at them really soon,” Edge reasoned.

His comrades were thinking about what he said, but it was too late to turn back.

“I’m afraid we’ll have to execute our order anyway. Even if we’d let the fillies go, the ponies would still retaliate out of revenge.”

He saw that the other two griffins were looking at each other in confusion. Edge continued:

“Don’t give me those looks. Sure, the ponies may seem cute and innocent, but that doesn’t mean they can’t fight. I’m especially concerned about that pegasus squadron that the general mentioned... But enough pondering. We’re going back.”

They were trying to fly as low as possible, hoping they will remain hidden. Medley immediately returned to the team and reported everything she heard. Derpy was more than eager to dive in, but Firefly held her off.

“We can’t just crash into them. They might be waiting in for us...”

“I wouldn’t worry about it,” Medley assured. “They are completely unaware of our presence. While I was following them, hidden between the trees, I even heard some of them were against the whole concept of kidnapping fillies. Maybe they’re not that bad...”

Firefly ignored the last sentence.

“The enemy cannot be trusted. In any case, we must execute our actions quickly. Any ideas?”

Medley gave another suggestion. She mentioned about their low flight altitude, giving the pegasi a great opportunity to appear before them quickly, engage and force to retreat.

“That’s pretty bold, kid,” Rainbow praised her. “So, Firefly, are we gonna let her in?”

The pink pegasus grinned.

“Two scouts are always better than one. You’re in our team, Medley, and from now on, your callsign will be... “Kid”.

Medley, not troubled by the way she was called, responded with a salute.

“You can count on me! Let’s save those fillies!”

The seven pegasi descended into the woods. By following Medley, they tracked the griffins down. Edge was especially surprised and halted the others in place when saw two winged ponies appear before them and the other five started surrounding them. He had no idea how they managed to discover them, but decided to put up a fight rather than flee. After a short confrontation, Lightning Bolt and Fluttershy managed to recover two of the fillies.

Derpy personally took on the griffon who was still holding Dinky. Other pegasi decided to let her deal with him.

Although he seemed to be having an upper hand, due to him trying to use Dinky as a shield from time to time, it only fueled Derpy’s desire to save her. As the fight prolonged, Medley ultimately decided to join in by bucking the griffon from the back, catching him off-guard and allowing Derpy to retrieve her daughter. After another brief skirmish ensued, the ponies finally gained the upper hand and forced the kidnappers to retreat. Some wanted to stay and keep fighting, but Rainbow Dash made them think twice about it.

FFurious, the griffins flew away, with Edge still wondering how the ponies managed to find them in the first place. Derpy embraced her daughter. The others were treating the two other fillies.

“Good job, team,” Firefly praised her friends. “Let’s bring them back.”

==========

1532 hrs

Cloudsdale, Mirage squadron’s base

Derpy and Medley were grateful for letting them stay in the base, each of them explaining the reasons why they decided to stay.

“Now that my daughter is save, I could leave and go back to normal life...” Derpy said at first.

“But I can’t allow those kinds of actions to occur again. This is going to be my resolve. I’ll be fighting the griffins to protect fillies.”

Lightning Bolt patted Derpy on the back.

“TThey might eventually abandon this idea. So far, most of them disagreed with it. And it didn’t seemed to be effective per se. This might be our key in future missions. If they will no longer threaten fillies, they might as well start the actual invasion. If so, we’ll be ready.”

Medley, on the other hand, was motivated by something completely different.

“You see, I always wanted to be a great flier, so that I could protect Equestria from various dangers. I may not be as great fighter as Rainbow Dash, but maybe one day....”

Firefly approved of both new pegasi, knowing that any support will be valuable. Fluttershy decided to visit Rarity later that day and asked her to make two additional vests for new members of their squadron, Derpy and Medley. Hearing about the astounding success of her friends, the white unicorn agreed without hesitation. On the next day, Derpy and Medley were given a grey and green vest, respectively.

When Firefly officially welcomed them to the team, she knew that with proper training, they will become a great part of the Mirage squadron. The pink pegasus also had a reason to prevent griffins from their expansion... although nopony new about these reasons at the moment.

But they would learn...

Chapter 5: Winter Storm

As the cold dust embraces whole Equestria

Determination and diligence are put to test.

It is not numbers that win the war.

One must find the way in the eye of the storm.

Chapter 5

"Winter Storm”

December 12th, 2018

1045 hrs
PonyvilleIt was a cold and cloudy morning. The fights between the ponies and griffins were escalating. There were days of triumph and defeat for both sides of the conflict. But, as the leaves finally fell from the trees and snow begun to cover Equestria, the ponies found themselves in a big disadvantage. They were not used to operating in this kind of weather. Usually at that time, with harvests already done and supplies stored in their houses, they would just wait for the Winter Wrap-Up day, where the winter would be switched for spring. That’s how things always were in Ponyville.

This time, however, the griffins would not allow them to rest. Moreover, they would use the conditions to their advantage. As they were hailing from mountain peaks, where temperatures were lower than on the ground, they were perfectly prepared to continue fighting. Should they gather enough forces and strike in important locations, the war would end in their favor. But, the harsh experiences in the past weeks have injected a great spirit of teamwork in the ponies. The residents of Ponyville appealed to the unicorns from Canterlot to aid them in keeping the winter in mild state so they could carry on the fight. The request was accepted, as Princesses Celestia and Luna dispatched about twenty unicorns to Ponyville. The Royal Sisters could easily take care of the winter in their region, and as the unicorns used their magic to aid the earth ponies, the fighting could resume at regular pace.

It was on this day that the Mirage Squadron would learn a valuable lesson...

1106 hrs
Cloudsdale, Mirage squadron’s baseFor that moment, nothing that would require the squadron’s help was happening, though. The seven pegasi were enjoying a brief break, with Derpy demonstrating a “muffin-juggling,” as she called it. For ten minutes, she balanced her body and performed tricks with her favorite snacks. After she finished, all seven muffins she was juggling were tossed into the air, and she sent six of them toward her friends. The seventh landed in her mouth. Everypony applauded her, with Cloud Kicker and Medley clapping the loudest. Firefly quickly consumed her muffin, remarking: “Not bad” and returned to Mission Control. It was important to keep a track on the enemy movements, especially since the current conditions were ideal for them to launch a surprise attack.

However, no such report came from Gale in the past few days.

“It’s strange that the griffins are being inactive lately, don’t you think?” Lightning Bolt pointed out.

“Either they are preparing something big...” Rainbow Dash thought.

“Or maybe they know we’re not used to fighting during winter, and they’ve decided to give us a break?” Medley spoke.

Firefly’s reaction was predictable.

“Sure, and all the while, they’re sewing and stitching some warm clothes for us... Get real!” she yelled. “This suspense is getting to me... I wish something could happen.”

And it wasn’t a few seconds later that Firefly finally received a message from Gale. She was a little disappointed, though and sighed.

“And here I thought... never mind. It’s still good news.”

“What is it, Firefly?” Rainbow Dash asked.

The pink pegasus turned to her friends.

“Gale just sent me a note. He says the Wonderbolts have regained consciousness. They are well on their way to be fully healed.”

As expected, this message have put everypony in happy moods. Rainbow Dash looked especially relieved. But Firefly hadn’t finished.

“He also says that they would like to speak with one of us. Sort of to clarify our existence as an official squadron. Because, you know, so far we’ve been a mere substitute for them...”

She sounded kind of gloomy.

None of the pegasi knew how to react to this. Rainbow approached Firefly and looked into her eyes. When she spoke, her voice was full of pride:

“A substitute? Maybe. But a great substitute at that. With us and the Wonderbolts flying together, we’re going to win for sure. I’ll go speak with them, if that’s alright with everypony.”

No one opposed. They all knew how much Rainbow idolized the fliers and the news that they are regaining consciousness definitely made her overjoyed, even though she didn’t showed it.

After a few minutes of preparations, Derpy gave her three more muffins, one for each pegasus. Rainbow then slowly left the base and started to fly to the infirmary where the Wonderbolts were given treatment. She was genuinely excited; she was going to speak with her idols ever since the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot. But at the same time, she wondered how would they react when they will hear that a new squadron was formed by a pegasus who was away from Equestria for the past five years.

The blue pegasus didn’t let her doubts get to her and increased speed, as she was approaching a big, white building with a characteristic red cross carved on its entrance. She took a deep breath and entered.

==========

1132 hrs
Cloudsdale, Cirrus Infirmary

After looking around for a while, Rainbow approached the reception and called the nurse.

“Excuse me... I’m here to see the Wonderbolts.”The mare turned around and examined Rainbow. She questioned her for details of the visit, and a few moments later, she pointed to the end of the corridor, where their room was. Rainbow slowly walked there, receiving a glimpse in other rooms along the way. Several of them had ponies lying in sleep, some in bandages. They were undoubtedly hurt by the griffins. The blue pegasus could tell it from one of ponies’ wound on the back.

Finally, she reached the room, knocked, and entered. Inside, she saw her idols resting in beds. Rainbow approached them slowly, trembling with emotions. Spitfire noticed and recognized her.

“Hey, it’s you... Rainbow Dash, wasn’t it? What brings you here?”Rainbow tried to regain her cool stature, but the pressure was too much for her to handle. She only lowered her head and didn’t said a word. Spitfire asked again:

“Why are you here? Shouldn’t you and your team patrol Equestria?”

Hearing this, Rainbow rose her head, surprised.

“So... you know?” “Of course I know. Only a really good flier like you would manage to keep the griffins at bay until now. You and your team are doing a fine job. I look forward to fly alongside you one of these days.”

Rainbow didn’t expected to hear that. She started trembling again and mumbling something to herself. The excitement and joy were blending together. Spitfire noticed it.

“You look a little tense. Relax. Let me guess... you wished to see us under different circumstances, huh?”

She tried to get up, but the pain suddenly stopped her. Spitfire hissed and lied back. Rainbow got closer. She saw the fiery-maned pegasus was grinding her teeth and trying not to scream.

“Are you OK?”

“Hah. I feel better than back then, when we’ve met those two griffins. But it will take us at least another two months to fully get back in shape.”At this point, Soarin’ woke up, and his nose picked the smell of muffins in Rainbow’s bag. When he saw them, a huge grin formed on his face. As much as he liked pies, he would never pass by a muffin either. Rainbow handled one of them to each Wonderbolt. Spitfire then asked another question:

“So Rainbow, how does it feel to be a captain of a squadron?” “Actually... Firefly is the squadron’s leader. I’m the second-in-command. But I don’t mind,” Rainbow said in a slightly disappointed fashion.

“Firefly, you say...” Spitfire thought for a while. ”I know I’ve heard that name before...”Suddenly, Firebolt spoke:

“It’s that pink pegasus who used to pull crazy stunts all over Equestria. She even tried to join us at one point, much like you, Rainbow. But, she ultimately abandoned that idea.”

This revelation surprised the blue pegasus, so she went deeper.

“Was there any reason behind her decision?”

“Maybe there was,” Firebolt answered, “but she never said why she did it.”

Several minutes passed as Rainbow chatted with the Wonderbolts. She felt sort of honored, but also thought it didn’t feel right speaking with them like this. She preferred to see them fully recovered and flying with them, protecting Equestria...

Just then, her communicator gave away a call. It was Firefly.

“Rainbow, get to the base! We’ve got a mission assignment!”

“Roger that,” Rainbow replied, turning to Spitfire.

“Hey, I’d love to stay and chat, but...”

“Yeah, I know. Duty calls,” the fiery-maned pegasus finished.

“You guys have fun. If everything goes well, we’ll join you in a few weeks.”

The blue pegasus was just about to leave, when she heard Spitfire again.

“Rainbow Dash... let me give you a piece of advice. Don’t hesitate. Never abandon your friends in need. And cherish the moments you have with your wingmates. We won’t be getting much of those in the coming days”.

She then smiled and added:

“Good luck.”

As Rainbow was flying back to the base, her mind was swirling with emotions. The joy, for being able to speak with her heroes again, but also sadness and grief, seeing them beaten and incapacitated. She remembered when she made a vow to herself to avenge them and intended to keep her word.

Soon after returning to base, she saw Firefly and the others ready to take flight. The blue pegasus immediately joined in the formation and the Mirage squadron took off, in the direction of Shimmerwood – a beautiful forest on the west Equestrian border. It was mostly populated with wild and harmless creatures, but Gale’s latest reports indicated that the griffins plan to use the woods as one of their bases of operation, not bothering to spare the flora and fauna in the process. Of course, Fluttershy couldn’t allow that. And not just her, the feeling was mutual with all ponies.

==========

1404 hrs
Equestria Western Border, ShimmerwoodThe large trees that normally housed numerous birds from the region were already completely covered by the snow. This change of environment proved effective for the pegasus ponies, since they could spot the griffins much easier. As they were approaching their destination, Lightning Bolt informed her friends that the estimated number of enemies in the region could be anywhere from seven to ten. But Firefly was predicting there could be more of them hiding or stationing nearby, ready to help their comrades should something go awry.

When the Mirage squadron finally reached Shimmerwood, Medley took a glimpse around the sky and noticed big, dark clouds on the horizon, which were slowly approaching the woods, carried on the wind.

“I don’t like those...” she confessed.

“They could cause a huge blizzard if they get here,” Derpy pointed out. “If there are any griffins here, we should beat them quickly.”

Cloud Kicker just returned from the reconnaissance. As expected, the enemy was present, with five griffins trying to construct something that resembled a watch tower. Another group of three were flying around, acting as a warning against upcoming foes. It seemed they barely just arrived. Firefly decided to use this as an element of surprise. She divided the squadron to two groups, taking Lightning Bolt, Fluttershy and Derpy with her, while Rainbow Dash was given Cloud Kicker and Medley. They decided to flank the enemy and attack simultaneously from two sides.

Upon arriving at their positions, they even got a glimpse on some griffins loquacious talk.

“Remind me what are we doing here, Jet.”

One of the griffins that was building a watch tower directed that phrase to his comrade, who was wearing a green jacket. He turned around, having heard the sarcastic comment.

“Our job is to keep this region under our control. This watch tower that you guys are building will help us gain information about ponies’ movements faster and with additional precision.”

The builder rolled his eyes, still not convinced.

“But I don’t get it. Shimmerwood is on the very edge of Equestria. This doesn’t make sense one bit. Why can’t we just perform a direct attack on the capital? Instead, we’re wasting our time like this...”

Jet approached him.

“The General believes that this will prevent our food storage bunkers from being attacked. Once the tower is built, there’s no way any pony would sneak through this border undetected.”

“But we’ve got them on the ropes. Does the General fail to see this? A single concentrated attack would be more effective and time-saving”, the builder objected.

“Maybe. But that’s his decision and we can’t disobey him. Especially considering Black Star and Red Cyclone are holding direct control over the army. They are the ones who influence our General’s actions. And he trusts them completely.”

The griffon sighed in disappointment.

“Well, I don’t trust them. Their entire concept of this war is just... just... Damn, I can’t find a proper word!” he exclaimed in anger.

“I believe the word you’re looking for is nonsensical,” Jet helped him.

“Right. Nonsensical. And besides, most of us were not interested in attacking Equestria anyway. What do you think those two troublemakers are up to?”

“I do not know, at least, not now. But maybe they will eventually tells us. Now, back to work!” he told the builders, who seemed to be slacking off a little.

As the pegasi ponies eavesdropped on the conversation, Fluttershy and Derpy begun to question the actual point behind the griffins’ actions. It almost seemed as if this whole war was started solely because Black Star and Red Cyclone wanted it, for whatever reason they had.

While they were whispering through the communicators with their friends stationed on the others side on the construction yard about it, Firefly squinted her eyes in anger. Even she could not overlook the fact that their actions were not making sense. Like Jet said, if they wanted to conquer Equestria, they would simply strike at the capital and take it over, then proceed to slowly eliminate all forms of resistance, if any. It was bothering her deeply. Especially since when she heard the name “Black Star.” She felt something familiar about it...

But seeing the watch tower being almost completed, she ordered her wingmates to begin the attack. The Mirage squadron took flight and a joint assault took place, with ponies soaring high and descending at the enemy positions at great speed.

“May the sun and moon shine upon us!” Cloud Kicker exclaimed with excitement.

==========

While most of the griffins seemed surprised with the pegasus’ sudden appearance, Jet remained calm. He somehow knew their actions would not go unnoticed. With a grin on his face, he called on his radio for additional support. As Lightning Bolt smashed into the unfinished watch tower, knocking down some rubble, she noticed the incoming reinforcements and called out to the others.

“Five more enemies approaching at vector 327! Watch yourselves, everypony!”

“Don’t worry!” Rainbow Dash replied. “Kid and I got it covered. Come on, let’s get’em!”

“Attack support? Roger that!”

Rainbow and Medley went to clash with the newly called griffins, as Firefly was overseeing the rest of the operation and aiding the squadron in slowly making their enemies retreat. Jet personally fought against her. He was much faster than the others, but the pink pegasus’ agility was more than a match for him.

As Derpy and Fluttershy were engaging a band of four griffins, the grey mare decided to use the environment to her advantage. Not only she was difficult to be seen in the snow, she also decided to make use of snowballs and temporarily blind her opponents with a precise strike to the face. Fluttershy soon followed her tactic. It seemed quite effective.

Cloud Kicker took on two griffins all by herself. She seemed to be overwhelmed at first, but Lightning Bolt came to aid her. Within thirty minutes, the odds were in the ponies’ favor. Firefly had a good advantage over Jet, and he seemed to acknowledge her as a worthy opponent.

He noticed that his forces were becoming weaker, despite the reinforcements.

“Tell me!” he said to Firefly. “What is it that drives you? What helps you repel our offensives and fight with us like equals?”

The pink pegasus didn’t answered at first, but then she glared at Jet and said:

“Because you guys are ignoring two basic rules of war. Rule #1: never underestimate your opponents. You think of us as harmless and now you’re paying the price.”

Jet looked to the sky. He noticed the dark clouds above them. They were about to cover the sun.

“I see. Perhaps you’re right. Then, let’s see if you can prevail what’s to come!”

In a surprise move, he seemed to rush at Firefly, but instantly increased altitude before he collided with her. Then, he performed a somersault and reached out to his communicator again.

“All units, leave the combat zone immediately. We’re going back.”

At this point, he saw Lightning Bolt performing her “Shining Spark” on the watch tower. The immense force of the crash sent the wooden construction down and into pieces. Jet wasn’t happy about this, worried that their hard work might have been for nothing. He saw Firefly appearing before him all of a sudden. He stopped, and they stared into each other’s eyes for a few moments. The pink pegasus then folded her front legs, grinned and said:

“Rule #2: numbers alone do not win the war.”

Jet seemed clearly enraged, but he had to admit she was telling the truth. Yet, he tried to remain confident and said: “The next time we meet, we shall fight to the end. I will not disgrace the Griffin Kingdom again!”

Vowing this, he left the airspace with the other griffins.

As the ponies were cheering on their victory and Firefly was praising them for a job well done, her communicator beeped. Gale was calling her.

“Flash, come in! What’s your situation?”

“Relax, Gale. We took care of the griffins. They tried to surprise us with reinforcements, but we drove them off anyway. They won’t be seen in Shimmerwood anytime soon.”

She heard Gale sighing in relief.

“That’s great to hear. For a moment, I was kinda worried. Well, you better get back to Cloudsdale ASAP. There’s a giant blizzard coming your way. If you’re caught in it, you’ll be having major difficulties.”

“And why is that?” Firefly asked. “We can handle anything that comes our way.”

“I know, but the problem is...” Gale paused for a moment.

“Your radars and communicators aren’t perfect yet. If there’s going to be a large interference in the atmosphere, they will get jammed easily. You know, they’re only made from currently existing technology.”

Every pony heard that. Lightning Bolt in particular knew about this flaw, as she was tinkering with various electronic contraptions before. This news wasn’t pleasant for the Mirage Squadron, but Rainbow Dash remained optimistic.

“Don’t you worry. We’ll back in Cloudsdale before dusk.”

“Then I suggest you hurry up! Remember, during winter, days are shorter. The sun will be setting in about two hours. Once you come back, report to me. Gale out!”

==========

1513 hrs
Equestrian airspace, en route to CloudsdaleAs the pegasi were preparing to leave, snow began to fall. Harsher winds blew, too. It gave the ponies some difficulties with going airborne and maintaining balance. Firefly told them to stick together and fly in a “double V” formation so they could keep an eye on each other. Unfortunately, the blizzard was growing stronger with every moment, and the blistering cold was slowly freezing their wings. Rainbow and Firefly could easily pick up the speed and try to fly ahead, but they would not leave their friends behind.

When one stronger gust of wind blew in their faces, Medley and Fluttershy were knocked back and lost sight of the others. They tried to reach them through the radio, but all they heard was static. Rainbow Dash noticed they were missing and flew to Firefly to report it.

“I’m going to fly back for them!” she shouted, trying to reach the pink pegasus through the blizzard.

“What if you get lost in the storm, too?” Firefly replied.

“I’ll come back. I ain’t leaving them!” Rainbow responded.

It seemed very dangerous. If the squadron members will be separated from each other, finding the others would take some time. While they would be searching, the griffins could try another assault. But Rainbow had no intention of backing away. Reluctantly, Firefly allowed her to go and look for the two missing pegasi.

“Once you’ll find them, head straight for Cloudsdale.”

“Got it!”

The blue pegasus split from the others. Derpy initially panicked that Rainbow will be lost, but Firefly assured everything will be alright. The look on her face was worried, however...

Fluttershy was not used to the sheer cold that was in the air. The howling wind only made things worse. She was unable to tell if Medley was any close to her or was carried somewhere else. Despite her stamina gradually lowering, she flew around, calling out Medley’s name. The snow was smiting her in the face all the time, and after a few minutes she could barely see anything within 200 meters. Fear started to get to her, she was losing sense of direction...

That was when she heard Rainbow Dash screaming her name at the top of her lungs.

“Fluttershy!!!”

The yellow pegasus was relieved to see her friend, but when she told her that she was separated from Medley by the storm, Rainbow promptly dived down in hopes of finding her. Fluttershy followed her, and when they landed, they almost got buried in the big pile of snow. Their wings weren’t as effective now, so they tried to look for their companion on the ground instead.

It took them several minutes before they stumbled upon the green pegasus. There was an old tree nearby, broken probably due to impact. Medley herself looked very tired and it seemed she was about to pass out.

“Hey, girls... we’re in trouble... huh?”

“Medley! Are you alright?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“Sure... I just... need some sleep.... Don’t worry, it’s... no biggie... I can fly. Let’s... go back... to Cloudsdale...” Medley could barely keep herself standing as she was mumbling.

Rainbow and Fluttershy looked at each other. The yellow pegasus had an anxious look on her face, as they saw Medley could not bring herself to spread her wings and fly. They appeared to be numb from the cold.

“We should find some place where we could wait for the storm to wear down a little,” Fluttershy suggested.

“Sounds good to me. But where? There are no caves around,” Rainbow pointed out.

“Girls, I mean... it... we can go back...” Medley muttered, coughing a little.

She seemed dizzy.

“We... completed our mission.... let’s.... go... back......”

Her legs bent under her weight, her eyes suddenly shut and she fell on the cold snow. She wasn’t moving.

“MEDLEY!” Fluttershy cried.

She tried to nuzzle her head and make her wake up, to no avail. The wind kept on howling and the cold increased in strength. Fluttershy tried to get Medley to move, yet she wasn’t giving any signs of life. The yellow pegasus kept trying, though she was on the verge of collapsing, too. Rainbow saw her breaking down in tears, but was not giving up hope. “Pull yourself together, Fluttershy! We’re gonna make it through!” she exclaimed.

The yellow pegasus calmed down a little. Rainbow Dash tried to pick Medley on her back.

“Rainbow.. what are you doing?” Fluttershy asked.

“I’m... taking her... home! Ugh... We’re ain’t... going back... without... her!”

The blue pegasus tried to take off, but Rainbow was pretty exhausted herself. She tried to push herself to the limits, but she almost fell instead. Fluttershy noticed that the wind was slowly calming down, yet the blizzard continued.

She approached Rainbow and helped her by taking Medley’s lower body on her back.

“If I’ll help you, Rainbow, we might make it.”

“But.. are you going to be all right?”

Fluttershy’s eyes flared with rarely seen determination.

“If it means saving my friends, I will do anything. Let’s fly back to Cloudsdale!”

Rainbow looked at Fluttershy with admiration and nodded. Together, the two pegasi took off and were heading for their base. As the storm slowly died down, they could see through the clouds and snow much easier. When they finally left the Shimmerwood area, they were greeted by a setting sun, as its glow was giving off a crimson light.

They felt Medley has briefly regained consciousness. She looked at Rainbow.

“Hey... we got out of the storm...” Her voice was weak.

“Rest easy, Medley,” Fluttershy spoke with a gentle voice.

“We’re going back. Don’t worry.”

The worn-out pegasus responded with a gentle smile and whispered before falling asleep:

“Thank you for saving me.”

==========

1745 hrs
Cloudsdale HeadquartersFirefly was circling around them room, nervous. The day was about to end, and her companions still hadn’t returned. Cloud Kicker was flying outside, trying to spot them. Gale was visibly worried, too. It would soon become too dark to carry out a rescue operation. Lightning Bolt was standing by the radar, trying to pick up the signatures of Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Medley, but no signals were detected for almost an hour. Derpy wanted to go and find them, but Firefly told her and everypony else to stay put and wait for them.

However, the grey pegasus stomped her hooves in frustration.

“That’s it... I can’t take it anymore! I’m going to look for them!”

She tried to leave the room.

“No! Stop where you are! There will be back soon, I know it!” Firefly exclaimed.

She was getting very nervous, and was about to leave, herself. But just then, everypony heard Cloud Kicker screaming.

“I see them! They’re coming back!”Lightning Bolt confirmed it, as three blue dots appeared on the radar. They were all relieved that everything ended well. As Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy landed, they carefully carried Medley inside. Initially fearing the worst, Gale was told that Medley simply passed out of exhaustion.

He asked Cloud Kicker and Derpy to deliver her to the Cirrus Infirmary. The others followed them. When they arrived and heard the diagnosis from the nurse, they smiled in relief. Medley needed to rest for several hours and warm herself before she could return back to the squadron’s base. Rainbow decided to stay a little longer in the infirmary to speak with her.

Upon entering the room where the green mare was lying, Medley woke up as Rainbow greeted her. Both ponies seemed glad to see each other. Although Medley seemed a bit gloomy, Rainbow was smiling from ear to ear. She leaned closer to the green pegasus.

“You gave us a big scare back then. You’re lucky you’re still alive.”

“Yeah...” Medley whispered.

Rainbow saw she was kind of sad. The blue pegasus stroked her mane and giggled.

“Hey, you did great. But next time, be more careful. And stay close to us, okay?”

“O-Okay... Thanks again, Rainbow Dash.”

On the next day, Medley returned to her friends. They were overjoyed to see the green flier back in good shape. Even Firefly praised her efforts, making her blush a little. All seven pegasi spent that day training and enjoying the beautiful sights of Equestria. It would’ve seemed like time stopped for a moment...

All that mattered for them now was that their friend was safe and sound.

Chapter 6: Ice Cage

It takes courage to venture into enemy territory

But doing so without help spells certain doom.

When a friend is captured, a rescue is enacted.

Those who are loyal never abandon others in need.

Chapter 6

"Ice Cage”

January 4th, 2019

0825 hrs
Canterlot CastleThe winter was getting to everypony. Despite the combined efforts of unicorns from Canterlot and the Ponyville residents, removing or, at least, minimizing the cold atmosphere wasn’t enough. The harvesting turned out to be exceptionally poor, with over half of the predicted food storage magazines being completely empty. And no pony knew why; the weather was harsh in recent days, but it was greatly lessened due to unicorn magic. Several ponies begun to suspect that the griffins might be behind those actions.

Applejack decided to personally visit the Royal Sisters and requested to perform an investigation in the Froggy Bottom Bog region. At that time, the swamp was mostly frozen, and the region itself wasn’t sufficient for good harvesting, but the plains to the south always had fertile soil. The orange pony also pointed out that it was precisely there, in the neighborhood of the Shimmerwood, where the Mirage Squadron recently halted the griffins’ actions, that the ponies could not acquire any resources or supplies.

“It’s official, Your Majesties. Those feathered fellas are tryin’ t’rob us of our labor fruits. Those kinds of action can’t go unpunished.”

Naturally, both Celestia and Luna knew how dire the situation could be if the ponies were left with no spare food. Over the years, history proved that hunger is a weapon that can be more powerful that cannons, battering rams or even magic. Applejack continued:

“That’s why Ah’ve decided to check the Froggy Bottom Bog area. Ah believe it’s there where we’ll find the key to solvin’ this problem.”

Twilight Sparkle was in the chamber along with Spike, acting as a sort of chronicler, noting all important facts since the EAF was established. While the purple dragon was finish writing down Applejack’s report, Twilight tried to oppose this idea.

“Do you know how dangerous it could be? I think somepony should go with you, to make sure you’ll be fine. It never hurts to have some backup.”

But Applejack was too proud and too stubborn to accept help just like that. Twilight learned it the hard way once before. The earth pony assured the princesses and her friends that she’s merely going to check the area, not seeking any kind of trouble. While reluctant, Princess Celestia agreed to let Applejack go to the Froggy Bottom Bog, but ordered to return and report the results of the search as quickly as possible. A single salute later, Applejack left the throne room.

Twilight was still anxious.

“She’s putting a lot on the line. Her life included. I only hope everything goes well...”

Luna smiled and tried to reassure her.

“If any difficulties will arise, we can always ask Rainbow Dash and her friends for help. I’m sure they would not refuse. Am I right, Tia?”

The older sister returned the smile, having heard her shortened name.

“I have total confidence in our little ponies, Luna. They may be different, they may be from various parts of Equestria, but in the end, they are all children of this land. I hope there will be a time when they will finally realize this. Maybe then this conflict will be over...”

Twilight bowed before the princesses and spoke:

“They will surely know. I believe that by putting differences aside and fighting together we can overcome this trial. And I know that day will eventually come...”

Moments later, Spike and Twilight returned back to her quarters to arrange everything for this day. Her battalion, aptly called “Magic Stars,” was going on a scouting in the eastern region of Equestria. The unicorn’s mind was still on Applejack, but she was certain she could handle this assignment on which she volunteered.

==========

1011 hrs
Froggy Bottom BogHaving just trotted into the bog, Applejack slowed down and carefully entered on a frozen pond. Maintaining balance on her legs, she skated through the ice. The earth pony knew that this area could be patrolled by the enemy, so she tried to reach the other side of the bog with haste, but also as quietly as possible. After two minutes, Applejack reached the end of the pond and resumed trotting.

Then, suddenly, she overheard some voices. It sounded like someone was arguing. She flattened herself against a tree and tried to pick up what was going on. A loud sneeze could be heard.

“I’ve had enough! Let’s get out of here. Screw the plan, I’m freezing!”

Applejack took a glimpse on the situation; four griffins were arguing between each other. Apparently, the one who sneezed had been out for quite some time, as he was the one complaining the loudest. The rest were mostly grumpy.

“Shut your beak for once, Slip! We’ve heard you already.”

“What’s taking him so long?” another griffon wondered. “He said it was supposed to take only a few minutes.”

Suddenly, a fifth griffon descended toward the others. This one was wearing a yellow jacket with number 13 on it. There was something in him that made him stand out from the rest. He appeared to be a veteran fighter. The griffon seemed to be largely unmoved by his comrades’ pleas to leave.

“We’re not leaving yet. We must make sure this area will stay under our control. This is a vital point toward invasion on Ponyville and later, the capital itself.”

Slip sneezed again and tried to state his opinion.

“Look here, Echo. We’ve been flying around this bloody bog for three hours. And we didn’t found anything that could prevent us from completing our task. So why are we—”

“I would appreciate if you’d stop running your mouth, Slip. You’re only wasting your breath,” Echo interrupted him.

“But I’ll answer your question anyway. We’re doing this for one simple reason. As you probably know, the ponies started to join forces. They might become a real threat to our operations, regardless of what our superiors are thinking. So, our general, after consulting Red Cyclone, decided that one way to weaken them is to make sure that their harvests aren’t going to be as they planned. We recently constructed ten food storage bunkers in the nearby area of Gildsedale, each holding large amounts of supplies.”

Saying this, he pointed his right wing to the far west of the bog.

“With them in our tow, we have the advantage. Once the ponies will run out of resources, an event which, according to Red Cyclone, should happen within three weeks, they will either be forced to surrender... or suffer from our claws and beaks.”

Echo’s comrades were mostly enthusiastic, but something was bothering Slip.

“What if they will try to retake the supplies?”

The griffon with a jacket turned to him.

“That’s another reason why we are here. We are to guard the bunkers and not allow anyone, under any circumstances, to find out about their location. If the ponies would know, they would undoubtedly attempt to drive us away from here.”

“So, in other words, we’ve been relegated from the mountains to this snowy wasteland. This is just great!” Slip commented sarcastically.

Echo seemed to acknowledge that.

“I know it may be hard to some of you, but give it time, and this war will end, with us being victorious!” the griffon spread his wings when he exclaimed the last word.

Applejack overheard the entire conversation. She started to think about possible options.

“So, these guys think they can beat us bah taking our food away? I could teach ‘em a lesson or two, if they were fewer than that. Guess now’d be a good time to return to Canterlot and tell everypony the news. Or maybe...” she paused for a second.

“Maybe Ah should try and reach Cloudsdale first. Hmmm... Yeah, that would be the best option.”

Applejack then reached out to her communicator and tried to contact Gale, so that he, in turn, would inform the Mirage squadron. Unfortunately, as the orange mare was trying to find a suitable frequency, the static sounds from her device caught the attention of Echo’s group.

“Aw, pony feathers...” Applejack cursed mildly before she started to run. She knew she stood no chance against an enemy group this large.

“An intruder!” Echo exclaimed.

He ordered the others to capture Applejack. Knowing that she was severely outnumbered, she didn’t even bother to slow them down. But despite the sheer cold, the griffins were more accustomed to these features than ponies. Applejack got quickly surrounded by them, and although she attempted to resist, she was eventually overpowered. One of the soldiers grabbed her back and threw her at a nearby dead tree, breaking it with impact force. However, Applejack stood up, refusing to give up.

With timed attacks and precise blows, the griffins managed to knock Applejack to the ground. The last thing she saw before losing consciousness was Echo, standing before her and saying:

“What a fool to come here alone... You should’ve brought some friends. Take her away!”

==========

1127 hrs
Cloudsdale, Mirage squadron’s baseIn the meantime, Firefly’s team was taking a little rest after their mission from the previous day. Each of the pegasi was also annoyed a bit, due to very cold air that made the temperature drop rapidly. Even though the vests that Rarity made for the team were quite warm on their own, the pegasi were still shivering. Rainbow proposed some exercises, but Lightning Bolt was busy analyzing the radar, while Cloud Kicker, Medley, Derpy and Fluttershy decided to play tag instead. Only Firefly seemed to be interested. The pink pegasus took it as a chance to speak with Rainbow in a sort of privacy. When they begun practicing dodging attacks and a maneuver that Firefly called “pressure flight,” which involved flying right beside the opponent in an attempt to force it to either change direction or crash into something, she asked Rainbow:

“Say... you’re not upset over my methods?” “Why should I be? I mean, I do find them a bit radical at times... but I trust you. I think that having trust in others is a key factor in pretty much everything that requires teamwork.”

“Hm. Well spoken,” Firefly smirked. “Then let me ask you this: when you went to help Fluttershy and Medley, you did this out of loyalty or... because you care about them?”

Rainbow stopped in place and seemed like she tried to come up with a satisfying answer.

“How should I put this...? Fluttershy is probably the first friend I ever had. I know her since my childhood. She may be a scaredy pony at times, but deep inside, she’s got a compassionate heart. It’s one of things I like about her. In the case of Medley... she’s alright. Might be a little exaggerating at times, but she’s trying her best to help us. In fact, everypony does their best. It makes me feel glad to be a part of this team.”

Firefly chuckled at this response. Rainbow leered at her.

“What’s so funny?” “Ah, nothing. But that’s the kind of answer I was expecting from a pony like you,” the pink pegasus replied.

“I agree that we all have potential to become new heroes of Equestria, but there’s one more thing that I’d like to know about you, Rainbow Dash.”

“Fire away.”

“Is there’s... somepony important in your life?”

Rainbow wasn’t expecting that kind of question. It made her feel a bit unsure.

“Uh... ah... What exactly do you mean by that, Firefly?” “Simple. I just want to know is there’s somepony that’s holding a meaning to you. Somepony that you share a lot of time with. Somepony that, if it would be possible, you would call a surrogate sister. Perhaps somepony for whom you would not hesitate to put yourself in harm’s way, just to be certain it will be save.”

The blue pegasus was completely taken off-guard by this. She wanted to know why would the team leader bring up such issues at this moment. But Firefly shrugged it off.

“Can’t I be a little curious? I’d like to know something more about you. Is that so bad?”

“No... I just... Well, alright. If you really want to know, I’ll tell you.”

Both pegasi flew down and situated themselves in the room’s corner, still observing other ponies playing tag. Rainbow spoke with warmth in her voice. She rarely had a chance to tell others how she felt for real.

“My friends are the most important thing in my life. In a way, they give me strength and care. When I’m feeling down, they come to cheer me up. But among them, there’s one pony that I would not hesitate to call “best friend forever.” Do you... remember an orange earth pony with a cowboy hat that you saw when you first arrived in Canterlot?”

Firefly nodded. She remembered her well, standing beside four other ponies, all of which, along with Rainbow and Fluttershy, were representing the Elements of Harmony. They were also on the stained-glass windows.

“Is she the one?” she asked Rainbow. “Yeah. Her name’s Applejack. We’re competing with each other often. But it’s mostly for entertainment. It’s like a sport. Normally, we would probably be fighting those griffins side by side right about now... I think that, besides Fluttershy, she probably understands me the most.”

At that moment, Rainbow paused for a second and looked at Firefly.

“But I still don’t get why are you asking me this.”

Firefly gazed into Rainbow’s eyes.

“I sometimes thought that friends are nothing more than a hindrance. I was alone in my travels. I never had anypony to look after me, to talk to, to confess my problems. Now, I kind of regret it...”

Her ears dropped down briefly in sadness.

“You’re a lucky girl, Rainbow. Sometimes, I wish I could have a life like yours. But, after my parents died and I decided to begin my travels, I was all alone... with nopony to talk to...”

Rainbow felt sorry for Firefly. She apparently had a rough life. The blue pegasus wanted to offer her some comfort, but it was at this moment that the alarm went off. The pink mare sighed.

“Can we finish this conversation later?”

“Sure thing.”

Within a minute, all pegasi were assembled in the Mission Control. Lightning Bolt was just going over the details of the report that Gale sent. It seemed that a pony was dispatched to the Froggy Bottom Bog in order to learn something about the sudden disappearance of the food. The final signal could be briefly identified, but it was too short to trace it precisely. “Gale told me that Princess Celestia sent a pony named Applejack to investigate the case of the missing harvests. And she seem to have found the culprits... but she was taken prisoner.”

All ponies, especially Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, were shocked to hear that. A brief discussion ensued.

“She went there all by herself? She’s crazy,” Derpy exclaimed.

“Says a mare who took on three griffins by herself,” Cloud Kicker reminded the grey pegasus, making her blush a little. “Applejack may be in possession of vital information regarding the missing harvests,” Lightning Bolt pointed out. “It wouldn’t hurt to carry out a rescue operation.”

“I’m going! We’ll be back before you know it,” Rainbow announced smugly and was about to leave the base. Medley tried to reason with her.

“Wait! You can’t go alone! You’ll get caught, too.”

“Kid’s right. I’ll go with you, Rainbow,” Cloud offered her assistance.

Although Fluttershy seemed a bit scared, she was also determined to save Applejack. However, Rainbow remained unflinched.

“No offense to you, girls... but I’d rather go by myself. I mean it. It will be faster this way.”

“The risk is too great, Rainbow,” Derpy tried this time. “You don’t know what you will find when you’ll get there. Besides, you don’t even know if Applejack is—”

But before she could finish the sentence, Rainbow glared at her, silencing the grey mare.

“I know she’s alive! And I will save her!”

Her friends were looking a bit worried. But Firefly understood what Rainbow was going through. Even though she didn’t had many friends in her life, those who became them were important to her. If something would happen to her friend, she would do anything to save it, too.

“You have my permission, Rainbow. Go and save your friend. And... try not to die. Make it back in one piece, ya hear? ... We still haven’t finished our conversation.”

Rainbow grinned at this statement.

“Come on, this will be a cinch for me.”

Seeing that there was no way to convince Rainbow to stay, or at least, take somepony with her, Lightning Bolt approached her and seemingly gave her a hug.

“You be careful out there, Rainbow.”

The blue pegasus smiled in response, then turned around and flew away, toward Froggy Bottom Bog. Most of the pegasi were surprised by Lightning’s action.

“Lightning... are you worried about Rainbow, too?” Cloud Kicker asked.

The white pegasus turned to her; she was smiling.

“That goes without saying. That’s why, I gave her a little something that will help us locate her if things get dicey.” Saying this, she showed a contraption with a pulsing blue dot that was going farther and farther from Cloudsdale. It appeared as some sort of a tracking device. She seemed to have placed something in Rainbow’s mane that would allow the others to know where she is.

“I like the way you think, Thunder. Very efficient,” Firefly praised her.==========

1409 hrs

Froggy Bottom BogOnce she arrived in the area, Rainbow Dash looked around, trying to find any traces of her friend. She noticed some hoofprints on the snow and followed them toward the frozen swamp. Rainbow flew to the other side and saw something that temporarily made her freeze in fear: a small puddle of dried blood. It was clear that someone fought here. The place was trashed. And it became apparent that Applejack was beaten and taken somewhere else. All possible traits pointed Rainbow in the direction of a small cave to the north. What surprised her was the fact that there were no guards around it and that the entrance was opened wide. Still uncertain about her friend’s fate, she carefully entered the dark cave.

Pausing for a moment to allow her eyes to adjust, Rainbow made her way deeper and deeper, whispering Applejack’s name. At one moment, she heard a quiet moan of pain. Despite obvious danger of being discovered, she rushed toward its source. Once she reached a chamber filled with beautiful shimmering crystal icicles, she heard a voice speaking in commanding tone:

“My patience is wearing thin! Talk! Who sent you?”

Rainbow got a little closer and peeked from behind the wall. To her horror, she saw a griffin torturer interrogating Applejack. She was literally pinned against a wall by chunks of ice around her legs, unable to move at all.

The griffon approached and grabbed her by the throat, trying to make her talk. Rainbow’s heart started to beat faster. Applejack expectorated:

“And... who’re ya workin’... for, anyways? Ah mean... you’re way too dumb... to be in charge... of all this...”

“Watch your tongue!” the torturer exclaimed angrily, letting Applejack’s throat go, but immediately delivering a brutal punch to the pony’s ribcage. A scream of pain echoed through the cave, the mare’s head flopped as she started coughing. The griffon let out a growl.

“You’re a tough one, I admit it. Not many could withstand my interrogations as long as you did. But that’s all right... I have ways around stubborn mules like you. And I am patient...”

Rainbow was about to burst out of her hideout when she heard a second griffin soldier coming in. He wondered if the torturer got out any information from the prisoner. The answer was negative.

“Either she’s playing dumb, or she really doesn’t know anything.”

“Don’t know, don’t care,” the other griffon remarked. “We’ve got more important issues at hand. Echo ordered everyone to begin another scouting session.”

“Seriously!” the torturer exclaimed angrily. “You’ve been doing this since we’ve captured that pony! How much longer?”

“You know Echo... once he gets all riled up about security...”

The torturer remarked with a simple “Oh yeah...” He decided to join the scouting, saying he spent the last two hours unsuccessfully trying to extract information. Before they flew through the exit at the top, he asked:

“What about her?” he pointed at the harrowed pony. “Should we leave her like that, without guards or anything?”

“She’s not going anywhere. That mare’s too exhausted to try and escape.”

Convinced, the soldiers left the cave. Rainbow waited for a few seconds, barely damping her emotions before emerging from behind the wall. Only then she noticed just how badly her friend was hurt...

“Sweet Celestia! Applejaaack!”It seemed the griffins were torturing her for a while, as Applejack’s body had several scratch marks on her belly and a beaten face, too. The blonde mane was tousled, her cowboy hat laid on the ground next to her. Applejack was breathing faintly, her eyes closed. Rainbow approached the battered pony, showing concern.

“Applejack! Can you hear me? Hey, wake up!”She didn’t respond at first, but a weak groan made the blue pegasus certain she heard her. Applejack lifted her head and tried to open her eyes. She barely managed to notice her friend. It brought a big grin on the orange pony’s face, despite the pain she felt in the entire body.

“Howdy, Rainbow... Nice for you t’drop by. Ah would shake a leg, but... heheh.”

“Quiet down! Save your strength. I’m getting you outta here!”Rainbow smashed the ice chunks releasing Applejack’s legs and making her fall on the ground, moaning in pain. Dash managed to catch and cradle her, looking at the badly hurt mare.

“I’m here, AJ... everything’s gonna be OK...”

Applejack smiled warmly, unsuccessfully trying to conceal the suffering she was enduring.

“Rainbow... Ah never thought I’d be so happy... seeing you... ARGH! Mah ribs..."

“What have they done to you...?”

“Ah... Ah think I felt that... last punch. Ah tell you... he loved every... second of it... But Ah’ll... be fine... Ya’ll be glad... t’know... ah’ve got some news... about the missing food... ugh.”

She tried to stand up, but the pain was overwhelming her. Rainbow tried to calm her down.

“We’ll talk about it after we get back. Can you walk?”

“Ah’ll try...”Applejack could barely stand on her legs, but assured Rainbow she’ll manage. She shared some details about the food bunkers with her friend as they were trying to leave the cave. About halfway out of the cave, the orange pony collapsed on the floor.

“Applejack! Are you all right?!” Rainbow cried.

“Ah’m... sorry, Rainbow... I’m too tired to go on... Leave me here...”

Rainbow offered to carry Applejack on her back and, while initially reluctant, she ultimately agreed.

However, unbeknownst to them, Applejack’s assailants were fully aware that some pony will try and rescue her. The second Rainbow and Applejack got out of the cavern, they were almost immediately “greeted” by Echo and his group.

“Leaving already?” one of the griffins asked mockingly. “We were waiting for a special guest, so we left the invitation wide open.”Rainbow was clearly angered, but tried to analyze the situation. Applejack was wounded. They were surrounded by five griffins, with one of them presumably as skilled as Edge or Zeakros. Their chances of escaping were very slim, but the pegasus was not willing to throw in the towel.

“I’m not interested in joining your party, boys. Now if you’ll excuse us, we’re going back.”

All griffins, except Echo, roared with laughter. He, instead, came closer and tried to point it out to Rainbow that they have no possibility of winning. The other griffins also started approaching them, about to handle the punishment. Rainbow looked at her friend.

“Y’know, AJ?” the blue pegasus remarked.

“Yeah, pardner?”

“It was stupid of you to come alone.”

“Ah could say the same about you. Where are the others?” Applejack asked.Rainbow tried to say something, but it seemed the words got stuck in her throat. Applejack gave her a friendly look, like she was trying to say: “Ah don’t blame you, but what you did was dumb.” And just then, when it seemed that the two friends were about to meet their end...

WHAM!A big block of ice fell from the sky and shattered into a million of pieces in the near vicinity. To everyone’s surprise, it were the pegasi from the Mirage squadron who dropped it. They landed before completely stunned griffins and their two friends.

Firefly looked around, pleased from the effect of such big entrance and smugly remarked:

“Seems like we’ve arrived in the nick of time. What does that make us, Thunder?”

“Big Mane Heroines, Flash!” Lightning Bolt replied.The pegasi laughed briefly before turning their sights on their enemies, who were still surrounding Rainbow and Applejack.

“Are you going to release them, or should we knock some sense into you?” Derpy asked.

“What kind of idiot would let his prey go like that?” one of the griffins yelled.

“Hey, it never hurts to try,” Cloud Kicker jumped in.

Echo stepped forward.

“Do not think we will give them without a fight. You should know this by now.”

“Oh, trust me, I do know,” Firefly assured him. “You, on the other hand...”

At this moment, she winked to Rainbow, who quickly dashed to them with Applejack on her back, and before anyone could react, the pegasus broke through the circle of griffins and was now standing by her friends.

“You don’t seem to know that distraction is always the best option,” said the pink mare.

Naturally, this only infuriated the griffins. They tried to attack the ponies, but their agility was unmatched. They outsmarted their foes in every possible aspect. Echo clashed with Firefly.

“I can see that Jet was right about you. Underestimating you is an easy way to get hurt.”

“So you’re finally catching on, that’s good,” Firefly commented.As Derpy and Fluttershy were helping Rainbow in taking Applejack to a save place, Lightning Bolt, Medley and Cloud Kicker aided Firefly in repelling the griffins away. It wasn’t easy this time, as they knew the importance of this region. They wanted to hold it at any cost, so they fought viciously and didn’t gave the ponies a breather.

One of the griffins scratched Medley’s back a little, but she retaliated with a fierce punch in the face, followed by Lightning Bolt performing another “Shining Spark.” The attacker was knocked down on the ground. The three friends soon fought together against the remaining opponents and ultimately forced them to retreat.

Echo proved to be a dangerous opponent to Firefly. He was the most agile and strongest of the griffon aces she fought against so far. But seeing as his forces were gradually being diminished, he had to end the fight prematurely.

“That was but one battle. This war is far from over. We will meet again, Flash!”

“Looking forward to it! And by the way, were you opposing the plan of kidnapping fillies?”

This question surprised Echo a bit, but he confirmed it.

“In that case, tell your commanders that they should stop trying to beat us with such cheap tactics. If you keep it up, it will be us who will win this war!”

Upon exclaiming these words, Firefly flew away with the other ponies, leaving Echo pondering.==========

1844 hrs
Sweet Apple AcresThe pegasi brought Applejack before her home farm where they were greeted by Apple Bloom. She instantly noticed her sister was hurt badly and hailed to Big Macintosh, the stoic and quiet older brother, to bring up some bandages. Applejack was slowly recovering from the beatdown the griffins laid upon her. She was also being kept warm, as being “chained” to a frozen wall could have affected her body. Luckily, with proper care from Apple Bloom and Big Macintosh, as well as Granny Smith’s special apple liqueur that warmed her body, the orange pony was well on her way to be cured. When the remaining pegasi from Mirage squadron came as well, each of them received a cup of the same warm drink from Granny Smith. All three ponies from the Apple Family expressed their gratitude for saving Applejack.

Meanwhile, Applejack thanked Rainbow Dash for the rescue and apologized for worrying the blue mare; even though Rainbow didn’t admit it, she felt great relief. The two friends shared some nuzzles and a hug. But something was still circling around Rainbow’s mind.

“How did you girls found me so quickly?”

Lightning Bolt approached her and pulled a small chip-like item from her mane.

“This little gadget was certainly useful.”

“We’re sorry, Rainbow... Don’t be mad. It was for your safety,” Fluttershy tried to explain.

But, instead of being frustrated, Rainbow smiled. “Thanks, girls. I believe that’s another valuable lesson of friendship for me.”

“And what would that be?” Firefly asked, as the pegasi were preparing to return to Cloudsdale.

“That true friends should never abandon others in need. Or be left behind. They would risk much to ensure their safety.”

Everypony agreed wholeheartedly with this statement. Applejack waved her winged friends goodbye before she drifted to sleep. Rainbow grew a little bit on this day. It was proved to her that friends, as long as they stick together, can accomplish amazing feats. On their way to the base, Firefly reminded her about the conversation from earlier. Though Rainbow was interested, she yawned.

The pegasus was up on her legs since the very morning and carried her wounded friend through a long way. Tiredness was getting to her. Firefly saw it and wasn’t picky about it; she knew Rainbow deserved a rest. Once they arrived back in Cloudsdale, she told the rainbow-maned flier to get some sleep, saying she’ll speak with her later by any chance. Firefly didn’t reveal much details either and only mentioned it was a “thing from the past”.

Before Rainbow could ask for more, her eyes closed and she fell asleep.

Chapter 7: Imminent Threat

Frustrated by constant losses, the enemy begins an assault.

A single encounter brings nightmares back.

Driven by vengeance, they clash in a duel.

Yet her foe's motive remains unknown.

Chapter 7

"Imminent Threat”

January 16th, 2019

0600 hrs

Gryphus, Griffin PalaceBlack Star was traversing the corridors, his mind focused on recent events. Slight boredom was present on the soldier’s face; almost a complete opposite when compared to the ones Black Star knew and spoke with through a radio. More than once the newly formed pegasus squadron proved to be a thorn in their side. He was especially concerned about the pink pegasus that was leading them. As much as he tried to keep his emotions submerged, all he could do was just walk back and forth. Red Cyclone came to him and saw his anxiety.

“You’re an early bird. Something bothering you?” he asked.Black Star turned around and spoke in a quiet monotone. It made him sound like he hadn’t had a rest in days and continuously stood on guard.

“I can’t sleep. I’ve been thinking...”

“Let me guess,” Red Cyclone interrupted. “You’ve been thinking about that squadron of pegasi ponies that keeps ruining our plans?”The dark griffon didn’t responded at first. But his silence pretty much answered positively to the question. He then looked at his companion.

“Is it that obvious?” “Well, duh. But I feel your pain. I’m bothered by this as well. We’ve tried every tactic we could’ve think of to lower the ponies’ morale. But instead, they keep fighting. And they seem to be getting better, too. How is that possible?” Red Cyclone was clearly frustrated. He scratched the floor with his left claw. Black Star tried to point out that they were not dealing with harmless opponents. He knew about psychological parts of the war, not just the battles.

“It would seem we have underestimated them. They are actually quite resourceful.”But that angered the crimson griffin even further. He started walking around, barely restraining himself from yelling and waking up every single soldier in the palace.

“I’m not ready to believe that! I always knew ponies were weak! And now you’re telling me my judgment was wrong all this time?!” he exclaimed, spreading his wings.

Black Star tried to reason with him, even though he himself was quite anxious about the result of this war. Not only were their actions not as effective as they hoped, the ponies were also surprisingly determined to defend their homeland.

“I’m merely showing you some cold logic. Whatever trick we play against them, it backfires on us. Instead of forcing them to give up by capturing fillies, which, if you ask me, was already a ridiculous idea to begin with...!”

“DON’T REMIND ME!” Red Cyclone shouted. “I know that I screwed up... But I’m not going to make the same mistake again! Besides, it’s about time this little game came to an end.”

Black Star looked at him with precaution. He wasn’t certain what his companion meant, so he went deeper:

“Are you saying that...?”

“Exactly,” Red Cyclone’s eyes squinted in mad delight.

“Until now, we’ve been only testing those ponies by engaging them in single battles. Therefore, I believe we may begin the Full. Frontal. Operation.”

“So... the actual war will begin today...” Black Star wondered.

“Right. In about four hours, the general, using me as a medium, will issue an order to all squadron leaders to begin the assault. We’ll see how long these equines will last.”

The dark griffon was seemingly unmoved and was about to leave.

“Do as you please. I’m not interested in joining the fight. However... I’m certain that the pegasi who recently captured our food storage bunkers will send in a supply team to recover them. So, I’m going to greet them.”

Red Cyclone stared at him, trying to get the meaning of what he said.

“You will go all by yourself? You should at least get some—”

“I won’t be needing your support, Red Cyclone. You are to coordinate the main assault. Besides, I only want to meet that pink pegasus...”

The crimson griffin leaned toward Black Star, as if he was trying to tease him.

“Taken fancy to her, eh?”

“Don’t be a fool. I merely have some... unfinished business with her. I’m sure she’ll recognize me when we meet. And I hope she won’t disappoint me, like last time...”

He hanged his voice.

“What happened? Care to tell a companion?” Red Cyclone asked.

Black Star spread his wings, about to fly away. He looked from behind at the crimson griffon.

“Forgive me, but I can’t tell you yet. Let’s just say it’s personal... Maybe I’ll tell you when I come back. Rest assured, this will be an important test for them.”

With these words, the dark griffon flew away and departed in the direction of Equestria, leaving Red Cyclone pondering about the conversation he just had.

“Sometimes, I can’t figure him out... Whatever, I just hope he’ll give them quite a show,” he thought to himself, as he watched the sun rise.

==========

0830 hrs
Equestrian airspace, en route to GildsedaleAfter several days of preparation and organizing, the Mirage squadron was finally given the task of opening a path for the supply team to recover the large amounts of stolen food, stored in the bunkers that were recently under griffins’ control. Firefly turned her communicator on and contacted the others:

“Alright. Let’s go over it one more time. As soon as we’re going to reach our destination, we’ll send the coordinates to Applejack and the ponies from the supply team. Once that’s done, our job is to patrol the skies and ensure that not a single griffon is going to hinder their progress. According to Applejack’s reports, there are supposedly ten bunkers. We don’t know if all of them are containing the stolen supplies and it’s highly possible the enemy knows about our plans and will try to stop us.”

As she was explaining the details, others were exchanging glances. They had a feeling this would not be an easy task.

“So, in other words, this mission’s probably going to take an entire day,” Cloud Kicker’s voice was heard. “It’s a good thing we’ve been keeping up the pace until now,” she sighed a bit saying this.

“Things may be looking on our disadvantage for now, but once we recover the food, the table will turn toward us,” the pink pegasus assured.

“Besides, the training we’ve been having in the past few days did us good. We can handle anything that comes our way.”

The seven pegasi were slowly approaching the plains not far from the Gildsedale, a lush and green region on the very edge of western Equestria, lying very close to the border. To their surprise, there was not a single sign of enemy in the area that belonged to them barely two weeks ago. They’ve used this opportunity to fly slower and converse stamina.

At approximately 1055 hours, Firefly told the others to stop in place, as she was trying to confirm their position. But since she hadn’t visited Equestria in the past few years, she felt a little lost.

“All these plains seem identical to me. Thunder, can you tell us where we are?”Lightning Bolt pulled out a map of Equestria she was holding in her bag and begun examining it. Other pegasi came closer, so they could hear what she was saying.

“Hmmm... according to these symbols, of ancient meaning I presume, we’re somewhere... here,” the white pegasus pointed her left hoof on a map that had a plain similar to the one they were flying above.

Medley managed to hold her laugh. It was obvious that Lightning was acting goofy to lighten up the mood. Unfortunately, Firefly was not amused.

“Tell me something I don’t know,” she said with a sarcastic tone.

Lightning decided to play along, not sure if the pink pegasus was serious or not.

“Consuming large amounts of food may lead to indigestion problems.”This time, nopony could resist. Even Firefly roared with laughter, however true and serious the statement that Lightning Bolt made was. Once she calmed down, she spoke again:

“Tell me something I don’t know, but not that. Maybe something... relevant.”Lightning then putted the map away and turned her scanner on, trying to find the bunkers. She managed to notice several of them, lying almost in a straight line.

“Supply bunkers at 11 o’clock.” “Shoot! It’s 1057 hours! We’ve got to hurry!” Derpy exclaimed all of a sudden.

Medley and Cloud Kicker chuckled again, but Firefly merely rolled her eyes.

“Alright, we’ve had some laughs, now let’s get this operation started!”Upon hearing this order, the Mirage squadron started lowering their altitude, and within a few minutes, ground was visible to them. As Lightning mentioned, the bunkers were there. Firefly immediately went to send the coordinates to Applejack, so that the supply team could begin the recovery process.

However, Firefly forgot about a certain detail that Cloud Kicker noticed the closer they were getting to the bunkers... “Hey! Look, everypony! It seems the enemy is already lying in wait for us!” the purple pegasus pointed out. They all looked in front of them. It was true. Someone was apparently waiting for them on the ground. But to Fluttershy’s surprise, it was but a single griffon.

“He’s alone there... Um, do you think it might be trap?” she asked Rainbow Dash.

“It’s possible. Those guys are capable of the most disgusting tricks. But I’m ready for whatever dirty deeds they’re holding up their wings.”

“That’s the attitude I like, Rainbow. Everypony, descend and land!”Following Firefly’s lead, the other pegasi soon approached the mysterious dark griffon, who was either not aware of their presence or was merely thinking about something. But as soon as he heard the ponies and their hooves touching the ground, he opened his eyes.

A mild smirk graced his face.

“So, you’ve come...”==========

1100 hrs
Gildsedale PlainsInitially, neither the pegasi nor the griffon took any action and seemingly stared into the eyes, as if they were trying to read each other’s predicaments and thoughts. Knowing that time was not on their side, Firefly decided to persuade him to leave, being fully confident he would not be able to fight all seven of them.

“Look pal, we came here with an important mission, so you would be wise to...!” Firefly started, but she was cut short when the griffon rose his claw, interrupting her. “I know exactly what you’re here for. And I’ve been waiting for this moment to finally meet you. You’re quite a bunch of troublemakers, I give you that. None of you is strong enough to defeat me, though.”

The pegasi looked at each other, confused from this bold statement. Medley tried this time.

“You’re saying that you’re going to take on us all by yourself? It seems you have no idea who you’re dealing with. We’re—” “The Mirage squadron, I know. I have a plausible degree of knowledge about all of you. Especially about your leader.” Saying this, he pointed his claw at Firefly.

“Really? Well, I don’t know anything about you,” she replied.The dark griffon shook his head, dissatisfied. He took a few steps toward the pegasi, who were prepared to face him in battle. They knew that the supply team would be here any minute, so time was of the essence. Just then, he extended his wings and they all saw an emblem that looked like a black star on his vest. Rainbow Dash instantly recognized it. “That emblem! You’re one of the griffins who attacked the Wonderbolts! You’re the one who started this whole mess!”

Furious, the blue pegasus tried to attack him, but the griffon soldier easily avoided her attack and retaliated with a vicious wing smash, sending Rainbow flying back to her surprised friends. The blue pegasus hit the ground hard.

“It’s useless, I told you. None of you is a match for me... except your leader. Tell me Firefly... how many years has it been? Five? Six, maybe?”

The pink pegasus didn’t said a word. She was just staring at the emblem, unaware of anything else. The little black star was all that mattered to her now.

All those bad memories started coming back to her mercilessly... the sight of her burning home... the charcoal bodies of her parents... and within this infernal scenery, an intimidating figure, looking at her with a piercing sight. She started trembling.

Derpy noticed it and asked Firefly does she knows that griffon. She didn’t turn to them and kept staring at the black star, but her voice was clearly shaky with anger.

“Yes... I—I know him all too well. Of all the creatures in this world, he earned my hatred!”

The amount of fury when she poured into the last word made Fluttershy cringe in fear. Others were shocked, too, when they heard that. Rainbow stood up, and when she came closer, she saw Firefly’s face—with tears streaming down the cheeks from her eyes.

“Black Star...! All these years... I was hoping to never see you again. I thought my pain would finally subside. That I could rest...”

“Then, you thought wrong,” Black Star interrupted with a dark monotone. “You should know that ghosts from the past are only meant to torment you.”Rainbow had no idea what he was referring to or why Firefly was so furious. She tried to talk to her about it. The pink pegasus took a few deep breaths and although her voice was still shaky from emotions, it sounded determined.

“You remember when I told you girls that I have a good reason to hate the griffins? Well, Black Star is that reason. Because... he... he...!”

Firefly couldn’t bring herself to say it at first. But Lightning Bolt pushed her into saying:

“He killed my parents!”The ponies gasped.

But now, they slowly started to think how Firefly felt; the person who was responsible for the death of the ones she loved the most was standing right before her. Even worse, he was acting like it was no big deal. He even confirmed it:

“Yes. It’s true. I killed Firefly’s parents. It was a part of my mission assignment. I was told to eliminate any possible traits of mutiny. Besides, her father was a very good warrior. He would grow into a threat to us, especially if he brought some other ponies under his banner.”

“But you knew that neither my mother nor father tried to stage a mutiny. And they were never a part of it! Despite that, you murdered them! Burned them to death! You’ve made me see it!!!” the pink pegasus yelled at Black Star, startling Fluttershy again.

Firefly’s heartbeat was increasing and her temper kept flaring. A confrontation was imminent.

“I swore to myself that I would avenge their deaths by taking you down! So I trained myself for this day to come! You’re going to pay for all the evil you’ve caused!”

“Bold words for a little pony,” Black Star mocked her.

“But before you decide to unleash your... punishment at me, you’d be wise to remember that I merely did what I was ordered to do. You, of all ponies, should know everything about orders and how important they are. You were always being told what to do... but now, you have your own team that you give orders to. So, I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.”

He then reached out to his communicator and said:

“Our guests have arrived.”

The griffon then turned his attention to Firefly again.

“In a short while, your mission might expect a certain... setback,” he spoke with a smirk.

Firefly looked behind her, making the other ponies back away when they saw her eyes. They seemed to be burning with anger, despite the tears that already dried up in them.

“Listen up, girls. I’m going to deal with that feathered bastard on my own. Do. Not. Interfere. Understand? You are to keep the griffins away from the supply team.”

“But, Firefly, are you su—”

Cloud Kicker tried to talk her out of it, but an intense glare from the pink pegasus’ eyes sealed her lips. Lightning Bolt’s scanner then started picking up numerous enemy signatures.

“There’s like ten, no, fifteen enemy units incoming! Vector 093, altitude 7,000 and decreasing! They will be here soon. What are we going to do?” she asked nervously.

The ponies were clearly outnumbered and possibly overpowered. But Rainbow had no intentions of surrendering. She decided to tackle the challenge.

“I’ll tell you what to do! We must take the fight to them! Follow me, everypony!”

She leaped into the sky, and others, reluctantly, followed her. Firefly and Black Star observed everything.

“I trust they won’t be getting in our way?” the griffon asked.

“No worries. They know about orders just as well as I do. Expect no mercy from me!”

The battle was about to begin. Rainbow and the other pegasi knew their task, but a thought of Firefly taking on the murderer of her parents came as a real shocker. Rainbow tried to keep the spirits up, stating that Firefly is capable of handling any opponent, even though Derpy knew that anger and hatred have negative impact on the pony under their influence. In this case, their fears were understandable.

==========

Soon the griffins entered the airspace. Rainbow saw some familiar faces within their ranks; two squadrons were led by Zeakros and Razor. It became clear that Black Star planned this for quite some time, as rallying this many griffins in one place would normally be a difficult endeavor. The rainbow-maned pegasus took Medley and Derpy with them, while Lightning was given Fluttershy and Cloud Kicker. Having split into two groups, the ponies flew up to meet their foes.

Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker fought together with great synergy and managed to wound a few griffin soldiers. But as Lightning attempted to perform another Shining Spark, one of them attacked her from above, hurting her left wing. Cloud Kicker tried to support her, but three other feathered fiends began circling around her, making it difficult for the purple pegasus to focus on so many enemies at the same time.

Within next few minutes, Applejack, who was leading the supply team, saw the ponies engaging the griffins. To their surprise, the feathered fighters seemed to have no intentions in stopping the ponies from recovering the food. It almost seemed like the whole reason Black Star was waiting for the Mirage squadron to show up was to trap them here, take them down with overwhelming strength and numbers, and then finish off the ponies from the supply team. Applejack shivered at those thoughts, but they seemed to be the reason behind this fight. She only prayed that Rainbow and the others would somehow make it out alive.

She then started dispatching ponies to the bunkers so they could start recovering food. And even while the earth pony was helping retrieve the supplies, she still looked into the sky, fearing for her friends’ safety and cursing herself for being unable to help them.

“Ah have to trust Rainbow. Ah’m sure she’ll be able to make it back. Ah just know it,” Applejack kept telling herself.

No side could gain the advantage over the other in this struggle. Despite being outnumbered, the winged equines fought with determination, often trying to gang up on one enemy or face several on their own. But the griffins were retaliating ever so often, and after exchanging heavy blows with each other in direct confrontations, both pegasi and griffins sustained several bruises. Rainbow broke through enemy formation to meet Zeakros. With a little assistance from Cloud Kicker, she managed to force him to retreat after a brief dogfight.

But about eight other griffins refused to go back and were ready to fight to the bitter end. Razor commended on ponies’ courage, but showed them they were on the losing side. Fluttershy was extremely exhausted, Derpy’s back was injured and Lightning was having more and more trouble with flying normally, due to her left wing being damaged by Razor’s attack.

The ponies regrouped near Rainbow, and both sides used this as an opportunity to hold the fight and calculate the casualties.

“I must admit, you are more dangerous than we thought,” Razor spoke. “But we have the advantage in numbers and strength. It’s not too late to give up.”

“You really expect us to give up? Keep dreaming!” Rainbow exclaimed.

Medley was a little worried, however. Firefly had herself focused completely on Black Star and seemed to have no idea what was happening. The pegasus ponies couldn’t count on her to help them in this battle.

“How could things get any worse?” Derpy wondered.

Just then, Rainbow communicator’s started beeping. She answered the call. It was Gale and his voice was extremely nervous.

“Rainbow, listen up! I just got a report from the front lines. It seems the griffins are on their way to Manehattan. And they started to move in almost every region. Currently, there are no pegasi squadrons to protect Manehattan, as they’re mostly still engaged on the north and east borders. We need more units! Do you think you girls could—”

“No can do!” Rainbow interrupted.

“We’re having our hooves full here. And it doesn’t look good, either. But if what you say is true, then I guess nopony’s coming to help us, huh?”

Gale’s voice turned somber.

“I’m afraid not. The situation is very dangerous. If the griffins take over Manehattan, they will be in perfect position to attack Cloudsdale and then...!”

“You don’t have to say anything else. I get the message. We’ll try to get out of here and regroup in Cloudsdale. It seems that we’ll have to sacrifice Manehattan, though... Dang it!”

“I know Rainbow, but this is war,” Gale reminded her. “Losses in war are inevitable. Just come back alive. We can’t win this war without you, Mirage!”

His last sentence sounded a little desperate.

Rainbow turned the communicator off seconds later and gave Derpy a look that pretty much said: “You just HAD to jinx it on us!” Despite the inner turmoil, she tried to think of any possible options. For the moment, she had her sight focused on Firefly fighting Black Star.

Both of them were showing signs of fatigue, since the battle lasted for about three hours now. Yet, neither of them had any intentions of backing away. Firefly’s body got scratched several times, leaving a few slightly bleeding claw marks here and there, plus an awful wound on her forehead. But Black Star was beaten up, too, with his right eye having a big bruise from the pegasus’ precise hit. They just hovered in midair, trying to catch breath. Black Star smirked and started clapping with his claws.

“Bravo. You really did improved. I never expected to have so much trouble with you. However...!”

He then charged toward Firefly, trying to smash into her. The blue-maned flier barely managed to dodge the attack, panting heavily.

“You still lack skills to defeat me,” the griffon finished the sentence.

Firefly’s eyes were locked onto his. Her only desire was to bring down the one who destroyed everything that was peaceful in her life and threw Equestria into war.

“I should’ve known that you would be behind this whole mess. You’re one of those who live to fight the others. The more you kill, the greater bliss you experience.”

“Oh, but you are wrong, my dear. As always. I only helped in orchestrating this conflict,” said Black Star.

“You should actually thank my companion, Red Cyclone. It was mostly his desire to see Equestria engulfed in the fires of war. I merely helped him in his wish coming true.”

“You’re so full of it!” Firefly was clearly disgusted. “I’m going to shut that beak of yours once and for all!”

She tried to fly at him and smash him with her hind legs, but the griffon swiftly evaded and knocked Firefly back a bit. He then said:

“I suggest you take look around. Your rage toward me might have blinded your other instincts.”

Firefly looked behind and noticed the griffins were keeping Rainbow and the others on the ropes. Fluttershy and Cloud Kicker could barely keep up with the action, Medley was very exhausted, Derpy and Lightning Bolt sustained an injury and Rainbow couldn’t move as swiftly. Things were looking very bleak for the Mirage squadron...

While Black Star did not see Firefly’s face, it was obvious she was worried about her friends. But there was no turning back. A smirk lightened his face up. His goal was achieved.

And yet, this war rose a curtain for a new actor. One that neither side has expected...==========

Black Star was about to attack Firefly again, but suddenly, something zoomed right before their eyes. Surprised, they tried to find out who could be this fast, but couldn't see anyone.

As the griffins were surrounding the pegasi ponies, one of them got hit hard and fell down to the ground lifelessly. The assailants were caught off-guard. Rainbow used this opening to break free and attack another griffon. Razor had no idea what was happening until he noticed that a new pegasus has entered the airspace.

Everyone stopped dead right where they were, seeing the mysterious winged stallion appearing before them, with sun shining down on his silhouette. One of the griffins tried to attack him, but the pegasus flew directly at him and smashed him in the face, sending the feathered soldier plummeting down. Neither of the sides knew the identity of this pegasus, until Black Star noticed his cutie mark. Echo saw it, too...

A cold shiver ran down his spine. He knew it well.

A blue and black ribbon!Everyone could get a better glimpse on the unknown flier now. His coat was dark blue, almost blending him with the darkened sky. When a gust of wind blew, his silver mane scattered on it. This mysterious pegasus looked on both griffins and ponies, as if he was analyzing which side he should aid.

Another griffon got impatient and flew toward him, but the pegasus reacted immediately by flying overhead and getting behind his attacker. Before he could react, a swift kick in the back sent him downward. Razor shouted to the others:

“Stay on your positions!”

He then slowly approached the mysterious stallion and said:

“Identify yourself.”The pegasus did not respond, but kept staring his silver eyes into Razor’s. The griffon felt intimidated, even though they were about equal in size and retreated to other soldiers a few seconds later, unable to comprehend why he felt such dread! The ponies had no idea what was going on either, but felt somewhat more confident when they looked at this stranger.

“Wow... Did he just took out three griffins all by himself?” Cloud Kicker asked in awe. “And he did it with a single attack. Whoever he is, he’s got some skills,” Rainbow Dash added, staring at the stallion’s cutie mark. “I wonder what that ribbon means... Who could he be? Maybe Firefly would know something...”

No one knew what to do. The pegasus’ sole presence seemed to have put a stop to fighting. Even the ponies on the ground halted the recovery of supplies when they noticed a new player on the field.

Seconds languished. Echo’s voice then broke the silence.

“I order all griffins to return to Gryphus! At this rate, you’ll be wiped out.”The feathered soldiers were trying to go against that order. They believed that by ganging up on the pegasus they could take him down easily, but Razor wasn’t sure. The fact he got intimidated just by looking into his eyes for a few seconds didn’t helped.

“I agree with Echo. We were not prepared to face this kind of opponent. We must retreat. Anyone who disobeys will join those three who fell down!”This forced the griffins to use cold logic. This pegasus was different than Mirage squadron. He was stronger and faster and could easily fight multiple enemies at once. They had to follow the orders and leave the airspace. When Black Star was about to leave, Firefly tried to stop him:

“Running away, coward?”

“Call it a tactical retreat,” Black Star remarked, visibly disappointed. “Perhaps you should worry about that stallion over there, too. He’s a living demon...”Firefly had no idea what Black Star meant. He flew away with the others, leaving the battered pegasus behind. The battle was over.

With the timely arrival of the mysterious pegasus, the griffins fled the airspace. But the pegasi didn’t knew if they could trust this stranger. Firefly rejoined her wingmares, checking their condition. The pink pegasus’ forehead was bleeding a little. Lightning Bolt had a damaged wing and Derpy’s back was badly scratched, but their injuries could be tendered easily and were not life-threatening. Fluttershy and Medley could barely fly, so Rainbow and Derpy helped them keep the balance.

Firefly then approached the unknown stallion.

“Hey... thanks for saving our flanks. Could you tell us your name?” she asked.To their disappointment, the pegasus did not answer and flew away before they could say another word. He disappeared almost as quick as he showed up, leaving them dumbfounded. They descended to the ground where the ponies from the supply team were sending words of congratulations and gratitude for protecting them.

Applejack approached Rainbow Dash.

“Whoa, that was some intense flyin’ there, pardner. Ya alright?”

“Yeah, I’ll manage,” Rainbow replied.

“I just wonder who could it be... I don’t remember seeing a pegasus like him in Equestria. Firefly, do you...?”

She tried to ask her about the stranger, but the pink pegasus was too busy speaking through the communicator with Gale. Others came closer and entered the same frequency to hear everything.

“Stop shaking, Gale. We’ve taken a few hits, but we’re fine and alive,” Firefly assured him.

She was pressing a bandage on her forehead, stopping the bleeding.

“Oh, what a relief. So, are the supplies recovered, then?”

“Uh-huh. They’ve just finished loading the last few wagons up,” Rainbow Dash joined in.

“I don’t know how you gals are doing this. You were up against one of the best soldiers the Griffin Kingdom could display! That’s an exceptional feat!” Gale couldn’t hold his excitement.

“Actually...” Fluttershy tried to speak coherently. “It wasn’t entirely our success. We... um... it would’ve been much harder for us... if a new pegasus wouldn’t have showed up to help us. He... defeated three griffins completely alone.”

“And each with just a single hit. That was so awesome!”

Rainbow sounded a little aroused, yet she remembered what Gale told her about the lack of reinforcements.

“But I thought you said we couldn’t count on anypony’s help.”

Hearing about the new pegasus, Gale tried to learn something about him. He asked the pegasi for any specific traits he had. Medley mentioned his silver eyes and mane, Cloud Kicker spoke of his exceptional speed, while Derpy brought out his dark blue coat color. But even with this data, Gale was unable to find any pegasus who could match the description.

When asked about the cutie mark, though, Firefly told him about the blue and black ribbon he bared when he spread his wings. This detail struck Gale deeply.

“You say... his cutie mark was a... ribbon?”

“Yeah, so? What about it?” Firefly asked.

For a few seconds, the pegasi couldn’t understand Gale. He sounded like he was mumbling to himself. Medley and Lightning Bolt caught only single words, such as “phantom”, “reaper” or “legend”. That last word prompted Rainbow Dash to push the conversation further.

“So do you know who he is, or you don’t? Where’s he from? Can we trust him?” she kept on asking.

Gale finally calmed down and said:

“If those traits are correct, then we’re in great luck. Girls... that pegasus was a living legend. That pegasus is... Mobius, the Ribbon Fighter.”

Nopony ever heard that name before, so they wanted to know something more. Having found his flight record, Gale stated that Mobius has never been shot down during missions he took and have rose from the position of rookie to top ace in less than twelve months. His number of victories is the highest ever achieved by a single pegasus. In the past, he was a key factor in helping a certain nation overcome an invasion and mount a comeback, where he single-hoofedly managed to defeat all members of the supposedly invincible squadron, including clashing with and finishing off their leader.

The ponies’ eyes widened in respect. If such pegasus would fly for Equestria, they would be one step closer to saving their homeland... But Mobius’ place of birth and origin were unknown, and he apparently wasn’t from Equestria, but a completely different land. Gale also added that Manehattan was unfortunately overrun by the griffins and now the Mirage squadron is being called back to Cloudsdale to recover and help defend the city from the impending attack.

The pegasi parted ways with Applejack and the supply team as they headed back in their directions. Rainbow’s mind was on Mobius through the whole way.==========

1903 hrs
Gryphus, Griffin PalaceBlack Star returned, seeing several griffins beaten up by ponies and knowing he lost three soldiers because of Mobius’ appearance. Echo told him a few details about him, but didn’t mentioned where he got these informations.

Red Cyclone was waiting for him in the shadows.

“Hey, you’re finally back. Took you long enough. So, did your plan worked?”

“Yes, but only partially,” Black Star answered. “I’ve met someone else besides Firefly. A pegasus I never thought to see even in my greatest nightmares.”

“What the hell are you babbling about?”

He then told Red Cyclone about Mobius and how he wreaked havoc in the griffin ranks. Naturally, he shrugged it off, saying it would be impossible for a pony to inflict such terror upon the proud soldiers of the Griffin Kingdom.

“He simply had luck on his side this time. If he shows up again, we’ll tear him apart!”

Black Star left that statement without a comment and resumed talking about Firefly.

“She improved greatly. Now that the war has finally begun, we’re likely to run into each other again.”

Letting out a loud sigh, as if to show both relief and exhaustion, he spoke to Red Cyclone again:

“I’m going to write the report about today’s confrontation. You coming?”

“I’ll pass. You know I hate paperwork,” Red Cyclone replied.

Although, when Black Star left the corridor, he started thinking about this mysterious pegasus. Sooner or later, he would become a great threat to him...

Chapter 8: Shattered Skies

The enemy is on the move, approaching the city in the clouds.

Those who have wings are called forth to defend it.

The heroines are ready to assist, but will this be enough?

As the sun reaches its peak, the battle begins.

Chapter 8

"Shattered Skies”

February 2nd, 2019

0445 hrs
Cloudsdale, Mirage squadron’s baseIt was still dark on the Equestrian skies. The recent days had put everypony on the edge. Despite recovering the supplies from the bunkers taken by the griffins, it turned out it was all a cleverly placed trap. Lured out to help, the Mirage squadron was unable to assist other towns as the griffins began the full-scale attack. Manehattan fell not long after they fought on Gildsedale Plains. The whole EAF was still holding several key cities; aside from Canterlot and Cloudsdale, Stalliongrad and Ponyville were also important places of resistance.

However, while things looked a little bleak, the ponies were not alone in defending their land. By calling out for assistance from their relatives in distant Appleloosa, they agreed, with a little help from the buffaloes, to help them transport and stock up on their apple pies, but not for digesting purposes. As it was once proved, they could be used as effective weapons, too. The whole operation lasted almost three days, and since it was carried out in absolute secrecy, it didn’t draw the griffins’ attention. Meanwhile, the ponies were doing their best trying to keep them busy. Though successful, in the end, they suffered several casualties and lost Trottingham two days ago.

Luckily, the citizens were evacuated to Canterlot where they tried to reorganize. And after taking over Manehattan, the invaders were now in dangerously close vicinity of Cloudsdale. While they couldn’t surround it and take it by storm, some were worried if the pegasus ponies, even with Mirage squadron supporting them, would be strong enough to hold the city. Nopony knew about the mysterious pegasus that appeared on Gildsedale Plains two weeks ago, as Gale wasn’t certain if he would actually take a part in the war and didn’t wanted to spread any rumors. Things were quite complicated, but the pegasi remained confident that they would save Cloudsdale.

Rainbow and her friends were still resting in their beds. Medley kept on rolling back and forth; it seemed like she was dreaming of an intense fight. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker were sleeping together, with the lavender mare resting her head on Lightning’s flank. She didn’t mind at all. They looked cute while asleep. Even Fluttershy and Derpy slept tight.However, Rainbow herself was already awake. She was just staring at the ceiling for the past thirty minutes, trying to get some sleep, but to no avail. She had a lot on her mind. Recent events invoked some questions that needed answers. As she turned to the left, she suddenly heard some noises—as if someone was strolling the hallway. Rainbow noticed that Firefly left her bed. She decided to sneak out of the room as quietly as possible and look for the source of this disturbance. She knew Firefly had a lot on her mind, too, but she didn’t want to tell anypony. Her recent behaviour seemed to confirm it. For the last few days, she became increasingly cold and aggressive to the point of outright yelling at her teammates during training, even when they showed signs of fatigue.

As Rainbow was passing by the Mission Control, she saw her at the computer. At first, the blue pegasus just stood there, uncertain what to do. She heard some faint whispers:

“And here I thought I would never run into him again... fate can be cruel. Why were you hiding all this time...? If you’d wanted, you would just show up and tell me it all...”

Rainbow had no idea what Firefly was referring to, but she saw that the pink pegasus was checking data on Black Star. She apparently was thinking to herself aloud. Rainbow walked in quietly, trying to talk with her.

“Hey, Firefly...”

Hearing her name, she turned around. The look on her face suggested she woke up recently, too. Firefly let out a mild yawn, trying to cover her mouth.

“Oh, morning, Rainbow. I’m sorry if I woke you up. I’ll be done in a minute.”

“No, it’s fine,” Rainbow replied. “I was... wondering about that mysterious pegasus...”

“Again?” Firefly asked. “He’s all you’ve been thinking about in the last two weeks. You even say your predictions about him while we’re training. You know... I’m starting to think you’ve fallen for him,” she added with a snicker.

“Like hay I would! He’s not even my type,” Rainbow said with a loud whisper.

It wasn’t all true, though. Rainbow was greatly impressed by Mobius’ speed, fighting skills and strength. He’d probably be a great example for others.

“I admit the guy is pretty good... even kinda handsome. But that doesn’t mean I feel anything toward him.“

A barely visible blush appeared on Rainbow’s cheeks when she said that. The room was only lit by computer’s monitor, so Firefly didn’t noticed it.

“Well, if you say so... Anyway, there’s no place for love during the war. And we can’t count on his help much. Besides...”

She didn’t speak further. It was obvious they were anxious about him. That pegasus wasn’t from Equestria and they weren’t sure if he would actually bother to try and help them. But in reality, Rainbow was thinking about something else. “Since you’re already up, can we talk?” she asked Firefly.

The pink pegasus turned to her again.

“About?”

“About you. I see you have some problems...” Rainbow whispered.

“What are you talking about?”

At first, Dash didn’t answer, trying to put everything in her together. Finally, she spoke:

“Why didn’t you tell us about that griffon? Why were you hiding the real reason you came to Equestria? It’s about revenge, isn’t it? So, that whole speech about protecting our land was just smoke and mirrors? Can you explain this to me?”

This sudden barrage of questions caused Firefly to hang her head. Moments later, when she tried to explain, her eyes met with Rainbow’s. The blue pegasus saw they were reflecting sadness in her friend’s heart. Firefly’s voice was shaky.

“I wanted to tell you all... I had no idea he would show up like that all of a sudden. I never even thought he would actually appear in Equestria again. And I didn’t come here just for revenge. Dash, you have to believe me. The main reason I came back was to protect Equestria from the invasion! I want to protect the land we all call home!”

She rose the volume a bit in her last statement. Rainbow wanted to believe her, but something was still uncertain for the rainbow-maned flier. She decided to ask her something else.

“Alright, then tell me: why didn’t you tell us about him outright? Why keep it a secret?”

This time, Firefly looked angrily at Rainbow. To her, it probably seemed like a meaningless argument. She had no idea how painful it was for her to witness everything again in her mind.

“Why? You want to know why?! I’ll tell you why! What if your parents were killed and you saw their dead bodies AND their killer before your very eyes?! HOW would YOU feel then? Would it be easy for you to tell somepony about it!? Well? Tell me!”

She exclaimed those words in Rainbow’s face, not bothered by the fact she did it loudly. The blue pegasus felt regret. She spoke quietly:

“I—I’m sorry... I didn’t mean to hurt you.”

“Save it!”

Firefly walked back to the computer. Rainbow felt bitter. She said one word too many. Firefly sat on the floor, looking at Black Star’s data. She whispered again.

“You don’t know how this feels... You don’t know the pain I feel. Nopony knows...”

“Then tell me about it,” Rainbow suggested. “It might ease this pain a little.”

The pink pegasus wasn’t sure if she was ready to confess the whole truth, even though she trusted Rainbow greatly. Her last few phrases, being louder than normal, led to other pegasi waking up and slowly entering the Mission Control. Firefly looked down on the floor.

“So, you girls woke up too, huh? How much did you heard?”

“We’ve heard enough,” Lightning Bolt remarked.

“We know that you and this Black Star are in a sort of conflict. But keeping it a mystery does not benefit our team.”

“Maybe it’s time you should tell us something more about him,” Cloud Kicker added. “Are you so cold to us because of him? You know we can always talk about it.”

Fluttershy came closer to Firefly and assured her that if things will be too painful for her to explain, she doesn’t have to confess. They will understand. The pink pegasus smiled somberly and looked at Rainbow.

“I told you. You’re really lucky to have such friends. OK, then. I’ll tell you what happened between me and Black Star. Hopefully, I’ll finish this painful chapter of my life before sunrise.”

Medley noticed that 5AM was approaching. They all sat around Firefly and she begun her story.

“You see, I wasn’t considered a ‘typical’ pegasus pony when I was younger. My parents were always proud of my agility and courage. They hoped that one day I’ll grow into a fine mare. Back then, I had a dream, very much like yours, Rainbow Dash—to become a member of the Wonderbolts.”

“Can’t say I’m surprised. The Wonderbolts were always the best fliers in Equestria, every pegasus had a dream of joining them at least once,”Rainbow pointed out.

“That’s right. And I had every possible skill needed to become one. I was never afraid of doing even the most dangerous-looking tricks. I used to show them to my parents often. I had my dad’s approval, while my mom was a bit more careful.”

“Mothers are usually like that,”said Derpy. “Sometimes I wonder how Dinky is doing...”

“I’m sure she’s fine. After all, Cheerilee is taking care of all the fillies,“Cloud Kicker reminded her.

She promptly turned to Firefly, asking if she’s interrupting her.

“Nah, it’s fine. We have plenty of time ‘till morning.” She brushed Cloud’s worries off.

“Anyways, one day I received a once in a lifetime chance—one of the Wonderbolts noticed me during a particularly impressive stunt and invited me to Cloudseum, so I could show them what I was made off. My parents were quite thrilled by this, so they agreed to let me go there without a second thought. I was so excited that my dream would finally come true...”

Firefly hanged her voice for a while. The pegasi looked at each other, wondering if she needed a moment to gather her thoughts. She resumed talking moments later.

“But as I was showing them my skills, I suddenly noticed smoke appearing in the place where my home was. I grew worried about my parents, and even though I was close to becoming a Wonderbolt, I decided to see if they were alright. So, I flew away. They probably thought I chickened out or something...”

“I’m sure they would understand if they learned what happened”,Medley spoke.

“Maybe. I guess I’ll never know the answer to that,” Firefly replied.

“So... when I got back home... I saw everything falling apart. My home was on fire and it seemed it was burning for a while now. I was terrified. I called out to my parents, but they never responded. I went inside, ignoring the flames and smoke. I kept on calling them, to no avail. And when I lost all hope... I saw them. Or should I say... their bodies.”

“Bodies? Were.... were they...!”Fluttershy gasped.

“Yeah... dead. Both of them were burned so much, their bodies were charcoal. They had claw wounds on them, too, like they were tortured or assaulted. And then, I saw him...”

“You mean, that griffon, Black Star?”Lightning Bolt asked.

"... Yeah. But I didn’t knew who he was then. He was standing before the flames, almost right next to my parents’ bodies. At first, I had no idea what was happening...”

“Mommy... Daddy... What happened to you?! Please, wake up! Say something!”

“Don’t bother,” the griffon said to the pink filly.He was facing her with his back.

“Your parents thought they could stand up to me, but I showed them what happens to those who scheme against my kingdom.”

“What... What are you... WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO THEM!?” Firefly screamed.

“Why... Why aren’t they waking up? What did you do!?”

The griffon turned around and looked at Firefly with his piercing eyes. She felt her entire body froze in horror. She never felt so scared before. He then extended his wings, revealing a symbol that looked like a black star on the vest he was wearing.

“I was given an order by my superiors. They believed that your parents were planning to stage a mutiny against the Griffin Kingdom. As its sworn soldier, I had to make sure such thing would not occur. They have been put to rest forever.”

He had a monotone and grim voice. The flames around only made him look more intimidating.

“Is... is this some kind of a cruel joke!? ‘CAUSE I’M NOT LAUGHING! My parents never planned anything against your kingdom. Who told you this nonsense?”

Firefly kept yelling at the griffon. Anger and fear were mixing in her heart.

“Like I said, I had an order and I had to execute it. But, now that I did, I can see that what you say is true. I haven’t found any traces that would indicate their involvement in the mutiny. It seems I was mistaken.”

The griffon seemed completely unmoved despite what he just did.

Firefly was infuriated by his seeming lack of any emotions. She let out a scream and flew straight at the feathered soldier. He simply smacked her away with his wings. But she got up, forgetting the fear, her mind focused solely on this seemingly heartless being that stood before her.

“I will... I will NEVER FORGIVE YOU! I’m going to avenge them! I’ll make you pay for what you did to them! I’LL MAKE YOU PAY!”

Screaming so loud her voice echoed around the mountains, she flew at the griffon again. But he knocked her back without much of an effort. Despite being at a clear disadvantage, she kept attacking him. The pink pegasus relentlessly tried to hurt her opponent, but every time she tried, he just sent her back to the ground. Panting heavily, with tears streaming down her cheeks, Firefly yelled at him again.

“You... you won’t get away with this, you feathered bastard! I’ll make you suffer, like you made me! My parents did not deserve this! What you did is UNFORGIVABLE! You’ll regret ever coming here!”

With these words she charged at the griffon once more. But he decided to stop playing around.

“Try as you might, but you are no match for me.”

Seconds later, he flew directly at Firefly and smashed her with his claws. The pegasus was tossed outside the burning house, into the gorge below. Screaming, she tumbled down, scratching her body on the sharp rocks and hitting the ground hard. The griffon soldier got out and looked down, noticing the wounded, but still breathing filly. He flew down, approached her and then, instead of dealing the killing blow, he whispered to her ear:

“I commend your courage. But if you really want to avenge your parents, you mustn't die. You’re not yet ready to face me. When you will become stronger, I will find you. Then, we will finish our fight. I hope you will not disappoint me. Remember my name, little filly; I am Black Star, soldier of the Griffin Kingdom ”.

He then flew away.

Firefly tried to reach her hoof and stop him, but it was futile. The pink pegasus pony collapsed and burst into tears. She cried because of pain, because of her parents’ deaths, because her dreams were utterly crushed... all by this single encounter. All these feelings and despair overwhelmed her. She lay down for many minutes, sobbing and reminiscing about the two ponies who raised her since her birth... but were now gone forever. When she released the whole torment inside her, the pink pegasus used the last ounce of strength to fly back up to the scorching ruins of her home. Taking one final glimpse on the burned bodies, she made a vow.

“I swore to myself that I shall become the strongest pegasus Equestria ever knew. And that I will become strong enough to avenge my mom and dad. Though it seems that time is yet to come.”

Firefly finished her story. An unsettling silence had fallen. But needless to say, her friends were shocked upon hearing the reasons behind the pink pegasus’ actions. Cloud Kicker spoke first.

“That Black Star is an A-class jerk! And that’s the least offending way I can think of calling him! He even admitted he killed your parents like it was everyday work for him!”

“It’s hard to blame you for acting the way you did,” Lightning Bolt added.“If that had happened to me, I would do the same.”

Fluttershy was sympathizing with Firefly more than ever before. She came closer to her and nuzzled her cheek. The yellow pegasus tried to cheer her up, stating that Firefly doesn’t need to face her past alone. Others agreed wholeheartedly. Rainbow Dash then said:

“The only thing that would stop you from taking down Black Star is you alone, Firefly. Of that, I’m certain. You’ve got what it takes to beat him. And I’m sure you’ll do it the next time you run into that bastard.”

Firefly looked at her friends. For the first time in many years, she finally felt a bit more peaceful. With a simple but honest “thank you”, she left the Mission Control to fly to the Headquarters.

The others followed. Sun was rising. They were about to go on their hardest mission so far.==========

0722 hrs
Cloudsdale HeadquartersAs the seven pegasi arrived at the Headquarters, they were greeted by Gale. He motioned them to come inside and follow him. Looking around, they noticed everypony was acting busy, with some of them analyzing tactics, and others training steadily by performing various aerial maneuvers. Seeing these preparations prompted Medley to ask:

“Hey, Gale. Are they all preparing for the upcoming battle?” “Yes. As you know, Cloudsdale is considered a home to most, if not all, pegasi. In a manner of speaking, it’s our main aerial base. So we must make sure that the enemy will not overrun it,” the red pegasus explained.

Firefly approached Gale and whispered something to his ear. Judging by his reaction, it must have been quite important, as he looked at her with eyes wide open, asking if “it” was true. The other pegasi looked suspiciously at them.

“Hey, I thought there weren’t supposed to be any more secrets in our team, Firefly!”

Derpy sounded a bit frustrated. The pink pegasus stopped and looked at her.

“It’s not a secret. I’ve already told Princesses Celestia and Luna about it. And you’re going to hear about it today, too.Not knowing what she meant, the girls kept following Gale until they reached the Briefing Room. A large map of Equestria was hanging on one of the walls. Other than this, the room, which contained several benches, was almost completely empty. Gale explained that he brought them earlier than everypony else, as this was concerning an important matter. He stated that the griffins were en route to Cloudsdale and their approximate strength was anywhere between seventy to ninety five units. Among all pegasi living in Cloudsdale, only about sixty were capable of fighting. Everypony else was moved to safer areas. The red pegasus then started the actual briefing on their mission, suggesting they should split into three groups.

“I know you have done this before, so I expect no difficulties. There are three key sectors in Cloudsdale; the north one, the center one and the south one. Each of these will require your presence to be properly fortified. Our pegasi forces are capable of putting up a good fight, but the griffins have an advantage in numbers and strength, so your assistance is necessary. It is entirely up to you how will you divide your team, but I suggest balancing it to avoid problems. We’re expecting that the griffins’ main attack force will move toward the center sector, so that one will be having three of you. The north and south ones will have two members of the squadron in it. Is everything clear so far?”

The pegasi noded, indicating they understood the message so far. Gale continued with showing them various squadrons formed in Cloudsdale that would participate in this mission. Once he finished, he then announced something that surprised Rainbow and her friends.

“I’m glad to add that you will not be alone in this mission.”

After saying this, he turned his communicator on and said:

“You can come in now, guys.”

The doors to the room drew open and three pegasi in familiar blue uniforms walked in. Everypony gasped. The Wonderbolts were standing right in front of them. Gale noticed their reactions and, with a smirk, he told them everything.

“That’s right. As you can see, the Wonderbolts are back in action. And each of your teams will get a support from one of them. Firebolt will aid the ponies in southern sector, Soarin’ will be flying with those in the northern one and Spitfire will help the ones in the center.”

After the initial shock, all pegasi bursted into happy cheering. With Wonderbolts flying with them, the spirits of other fliers would rise. Rainbow was especially excited, which was completely understandable. Firefly then approached the three pegasi. They seemed to have recognized her.

“So, you’re Firefly?” Spitfire asked. “The leader of Mirage? It’s a pleasure to see you again. I see you’ve gotten even tougher.”

“Thanks. But there’s something I need to tell you all.”

She then gave Gale a small round disc. He inserted it into the computer and soon, everypony saw several pictures that presented a gigantic structure in the mountains. Some of its parts looked like a fortress, while others resembled turrets. But the most significant feature was a long barrel cannon extending from the main building. When Derpy asked what this contraption could be, Firefly responded:

“That is a superweapon the griffins were building long before this war even started. A few months before coming back to Equestria, I’ve discovered it. This is supposed to be their trump card. It’s codenamed “The Burning Talon”. I’m not sure if it's in operational status yet, but judging by how much they were rushing the construction, I say it would actually be soon.”

“And what’s about this Burning Talon?” Rainbow Dash asked. “This weapon is supposed to store the solar energy in its generators, which are located deep within the facility. If that’s true, then said energy is then transported to the core of the structure”—saying this, Firefly showed them the detailed model of the superweapon—“where the operators can use that long barrel you see here to literally fire a beam of scorching light. In other words, it’s a chemical laser-firing fortress. I’m not sure how far that laser would reach, but I predict it could do damage to Cloudsdale. This is the secret I’ve been holding on with ‘till now. If it’s finished, we’ll be in a world of hurt...”

Others tried to learn something more about this superweapon, but suddenly, alarm went off.==========

0950 hrs
Cloudsdale Central SectorThe enemy was approaching the city, and slightly sooner than the ponies calculated. Racing against time, the Wonderbolts, along with Firefly’s team, flew to the city center. Some pegasi who noticed them flying side by side cheered on them, seeing it as a sign of good luck. Upon reaching their positions, Firefly split the team so they could aid each Wonderbolt in their proper sectors. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker were asked to fly with Firebolt, while Derpy and Medley joined Soarin’. When they left, it left Firefly, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash to stick with Spitfire. The blue pegasus was trembling with emotions—she finally got a chance to fly along one of her idols. Spitfire informed her about the possible attack force and stated that they must fight their best. Rainbow, with her smug tone, told her that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Many other pegasi were also settling on their positions.

When Fluttershy did the counting, they amassed to about thirty-five fliers, though many of them still looked and acted like rookies. Gale’s voice then sounded in their communicators stating that the griffins will be within Cloudsdale in about ten minutes. Everypony braced themselves for the coming battle. Firefly then saw the attackers coming after a few moments of nervous waiting. A band of about forty to fifty griffins, flying directly at them. The girls recognized some of their opponents; Razor, Scythe and Echo were among the squadrons. They assumed that some of their other foes must be with different groups. Lightning Bolt sent a message, having identified Jet and Zeakros in the enemy units that were coming at the southern sector. A few seconds later, Medley reported that the griffins who were heading toward the northern sector were being led by Greyback and a griffon with a green vest, bearing #2. Firefly immediately knew that it was Vulture from the Talon squadron. She thought he probably volunteered for this mission and hoped to run into her again.

Seeing the assailants coming closer, the pegasus ponies were about to meet them in battle.

“This is where the fun begins!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Hostiles confirmed. All allies, you’re clear to engage and eliminate them. Just don’t do anything stupid,” Spitfire advised her friends.

“Everypony, FLY!”

Cloudsdale Northern SectorThe job of Soarin’, Derpy and Medley was to defend the gates to the city. While heavily fortified, they would not last long against a concentrated attack. Soarin’ decided to fly ahead and see if any enemies were coming, and just then, the first of the griffins flew right past him. Medley saw him coming, though and went to intercept him. Soarin’ turned his communicator on and contacted other pegasi stationed by the gate:

“I see them! Got a tally-ho on the bandits! Protect the gate!”

Within the next few minutes, a group of fifteen griffins appeared in the airspace. Derpy joined Soarin’ in fighting them. Medley just dealt with the first attacker and flew to Soarin’ for further instructions. He dispatched her to the left flank with several other pegasi backing her up. She decided to keep an eye on a single griffon at a time and pick them off with direct assaults. In the meantime, Derpy aided the defenders on the right flank, initially clashing with two griffins and severely wounding one of them. It appeared the pegasi had the situation under control, at least for the moment. Jet picked up Derpy on his radar and went to meet her in battle. The grey pegasus noticed him, too. While not as swift as Firefly, she managed to keep Jet’s attention. Zeakros decided to not interfere and simply observed the fight from a distance, at least until Soarin’ found him and the two fought briefly.-----------------

1013 hrs

Cloudsdale Southern SectorLightning Bolt confirmed the enemy presence and directed a group of four pegasi to keep them occupied. The numbers of bandits were smaller than in other sectors, due to southern Sector having simply a strategic value. But the pegasi knew that keeping this sector under their control would make it easier for their forces to sortie. Firebolt and Cloud Kicker flew side by side, heading toward a second wave of griffins. The violet pegasus noticed Vulture among them. While Firebolt advised her to stay behind, she headed directly for him and ultimately decided to clash with Vulture instead, leaving Cloud Kicker to deal with three griffins supporting him. Luckily for the flier, she, too, had an assistance. Vulture’s brash thinking became his doom.

He tried to take on Firebolt head-on and perform a trick that would allow him to be directly above her, leaving her open to be attacked. But the Wonderbolt had seen such situations before, and she wasn’t fooled. In the middle of the trick, Vulture saw Firebolt performing a counter maneuver that put the griffon right before the pegasus’ eyes. Having difficulties with balancing his body, Vulture was an easy target. Firebolt rushed toward him and struck him with full force, sending the feathered soldier onto a nearby column. Yelling, he crashed onto it and plummeted down, blood streaming from his head.

That loud yell alarmed Greyback. He saw Vulture falling, defeated, his eyes closed and not giving a sign of life. The griffon was overcame with rage and out for blood. He targeted Cloud Kicker, but thanks to Lightning’s guidance, she was prepared. With a group of three other pegasi, she clashed with Greyback. A brief struggle later, he was forced to retreat due to the risk of being surrounded. He still vowed revenge for Vulture’s death, though. Firebolt reported to Gale that situation in southern Sector was slowly cooling down, which met with praising comments from him. Soon, the griffins retreated from the airspace. Lightning Bolt was called to assist fliers in the northern Sector, while Cloud was sent to the center one. Firebolt kept a few pegasi with her to ensure that the enemy would not try any surprise attacks.

1241 hrs

Cloudsdale Central SectorThe battle raged on. As expected, the biggest attack group was concentrating on the central Sector. In the ensuing dogfights, Firefly and Spitfire managed to defeat many assailants, but it seemed like defeating one griffon made three more appear. Rainbow found herself face to face with Scythe. He recognized her as a pegasus who tried to fight his squadron all by herself. The fight between them lasted only a couple of minutes as Scythe broke away and flew to a group of several pegasi clashing with other griffins. They were fighting bravely, but the feathered soldiers had an advantage in strength. Rainbow tried to follow Scythe, but she suddenly heard Spitfire’s voice, calling for assistance. Freezing in place, she turned around and saw her, fighting Echo. They were evenly matched.

While Rainbow was flying toward them, she noticed another griffon trying to attack Spitfire from behind. Without hesitating, she intercepted him with a swift strike in the face, making him fall down. Echo noticed it and decided to break away and look for other targets. Spitfire looked at Rainbow with signs of relief.

“Thanks for the help. It’s good to have you with us, Rainbow.”

Hearing one of the Wonderbolts praising her almost made her explode with joy, but she managed to hold it off and said:

“Ditto that, Spitfire. They can keep sending more and we’ll dispatch them all!”

Making a few somersaults in the air, being a clear sign of showing her emotions, Rainbow flew to save a band of pegasi from the attacking griffins. Firefly joined in the assist, having just bested Razor in a duel. She had a small wound on her left side, but she wasn’t troubled by it. A new wave of griffins then entered the airspace. Firefly and Rainbow split in an attempt to stop them from advancing, but their numbers were too great for just them. Rainbow called Fluttershy for assistance, as her job was purely defensive and consisted of backing other pegasi. Together, while helping the defenders keep the griffins at bay, they managed to hold their positions. Cloud Kicker made a timely appearance, knocking one of the attackers off course and into another pegasus, who finished him off.

Yet, all these successful attempts at defending Cloudsdale would come at a high price. Several ponies were already badly injured and barely able to fly. Despite Mirage squadron’s support, losses were inevitable. When another wave of bandits approached them, they immediately went to pick off the wounded ponies. Their screams could be heard from a distance. Firefly charged at the new wave, trying to break their formation and keep them away. Echo once again got in her way.

“We’re even,” he said. “Now you know how it feels to lose soldiers in battle!”

But that comment only infuriated Firefly, as it reminded the mare of her parents again.

“Don’t you DARE tell me that! I know how it feels, all right!”

Fueled by anger, she delivered a powerful blow against Echo. The griffon was forced to retreat and even though Firefly tried pursuing him, she was called back by Spitfire and Gale. The battle was far from over as new enemies were coming. After regrouping their forces, Rainbow and Cloud Kicker led an attack against the upcoming bandits. While some ponies suffered claw wounds, they drove the griffins away and even took a few down. Many fell under the combined efforts of Spitfire and the Mirage squadron members, but the griffins had no intention of ceasing their attempts in capturing Cloudsdale. Hours continued to pass, with neither side being able to gain clear advantage in the battle.==========

1620 hrs

Cloudsdale Northern SectorWhile the situation was in the favor of Soarin’s group, now with Lightning Bolt supporting them, he couldn’t shake off a thought that something was wrong. While the enemy kept attacking the gates, their numbers were drastically smaller than before, with only four to six griffins attacking in between fifteen minutes. This gave the ponies enough time to tend to any wounded, fortify the defenses and reorganize their formations.

“Is it just me, or are they’re starting to give up?” Derpy asked.

While it definitely seemed that way, Lightning was more careful.

“They’re probably trying to wear us off. But the breaks between the attacks are too long. And they seem to be more interested in fighting us than breaching the gates. I don’t like this.”

“Can’t you try to do some research? Use that scanner thingamajig of yours,” Medley suggested.

Lightning thought about it for a while. At this point, anything was worth a try. She turned her scanner on to find some more incoming enemies. To her surprise, no one could be seen on the horizon. Instead, she noticed a small blink of light in the distance... there was something in this light that made her shiver. Soarin’s asked her for report.

“No bandits. The sky is clear. But I saw a light... and it seemed to be getting bigger...”

She gasped.

“You... you don’t think?!”

“What? What’s going on? Are they preparing an attack?” Medley asked.

“Impossible!” Derpy jumped in.

“From that distance? It’s like... several tens of thousands of feet away from here! No weapon could had such...!”

Her speech was abruptly cut by a booming sound. A beam of light was heading toward the gate. The pegasi flew upward to avoid getting hit. However, the beam delivered a critical and precise hit to the fortified doors that shattered them into pieces in a matter of seconds. The ponies couldn’t move a muscle at first— their shock was too great. It seemed their worst fears were about to come true. Soarin’ tried to reach Spitfire and tell her of what happened, while Lightning Bolt desperately attempted to contact Firefly. Medley and Derpy just stared at the ruined gates.

The griffins could now invade the city from the north.

1630 hrs

Cloudsdale Central SectorFirefly had just knocked down another griffon assailant when she heard static in her communicator. She answered the call. Lightning Bolt’s voice was incoherent at first, but when Firefly asked her to calm down, she shouted:

“The gates are down! A beam of light took them out in one hit! Was that...!?”

The pink pegasus stopped dead in place. She had no doubt. The griffins completed their superweapon and it was fully operational. Another booming sound was heard and a second beam ripped through the skies, blasting a nearby column and causing ponies around to panic. Some griffins started cheering and resumed attacking. Rainbow, Fluttershy, Cloud Kicker and Spitfire tried their best to prevent any more losses, but two ponies fell from the enemy’s joint assault and one was badly hurt from the column’s falling rubble.

Spitfire called out to Firebolt and Soarin’ to rejoin them in the central Sector, to which the pegasi complied.

“Flash! Respond, for Celestia’s sake! What’s happening?” Lightning’s voice sounded in her communicator again.

Firefly replied with somber voice.

“The Burning Talon... We’re in major trouble. Thunder, you are to leave the northern Sector and come here. We must regroup our team.”

“And leave the north Sector defenseless?” she responded.

“We have no choice! Get in here, double-time! Flash out!”

Before Lightning Bolt could say another word, Firefly cut the communication and flew toward Rainbow, who was busy engaging the griffins left and right. When one of them performed a somersault and got behind her, Firefly intercepted him and took him out with a precise blow to the neck. Rainbow was about to thank her, but another beam hit a nearby column, leaving it in ruins. The blue pegasus wanted to fly toward a different group of ponies being attacked by the griffins, but Firefly grabbed her tail, stopping her.

“Hey! What are you doing? You want me to leave them stranded?” Rainbow asked.

“They will manage! We have to worry about ourselves. The Burning Talon is operational! And as you just saw, it’s capable of attacking Cloudsdale! We must reorganize or we’ll be having one major disaster here!”

“Cool down, Firefly,” Rainbow replied. “Me and Spitfire got things covered in here.”

“It’s not that. The city itself might be in danger!”

Before she could continue, she noticed the other members of her squadron, with Soarin’ and Firebolt coming along. Firefly told them that these three attacks were the Burning Talon’s laser. She tried to persuade the other to leave the airspace and aid the wounded ponies with getting to safer area, but Rainbow didn’t wanted to hear about it.

“You... You want us to abandon Cloudsdale? Firefly, are you out of your mind?!”

The frustration in Dash’s voice was understandable. After all, she was born and raised here, like many others. Any thoughts of abandoning her hometown never crossed her mind. But Firefly tried to reason.

“We won’t abandon it. But we don’t stand a chance against the griffins and the Burning Talon firing at us at the same time! While it can only fire three times before its generators and cooling units must recharge for several minutes, they hit with deadly precision.”

Saying this, she pointed at the two destroyed columns.

“I wouldn’t have trouble with that! I can handle both things!” Rainbow exclaimed.

Firefly was starting to lose her patience, but tried something else.

“You, maybe. But what about the others? We’re all exhausted from the battle. Our performance is greatly hindered. We need to recover and help the others. Consider this, Rainbow Dash. We’re not really abandoning Cloudsdale, we’re—”

Rainbow turned away from her. She was getting confused. The blue pegasus had no intentions of leaving the wounded ponies or Cloudsdale in need, but when she realized that making either choice would had her and her friends sacrifice the other, she screamed in anger. Others looked at her, uncertain what else to say.

Fluttershy understood Rainbow’s pain well. She put her arm on Rainbow’s shoulder and looked into her eyes. Despite all the carnage going around, she remained calm the whole time. She was aware that this war would come at a heavy price, just like any other conflict. Rainbow lowered her head and looked at her own hooves, before closing her eyes and saying in a resigned voice:

“I’ll stand by the leader’s decision.”

The Wonderbolts also agreed that moving to safer place is top priority. Spitfire called Gale and asked him to dispatch medical wagons. Then, the three aces assigned the Mirage squadron to help them recover any wounded in the area and help them carry them to the transports. Strangely, the griffins ceased fighting and tried to reorganize their forces outside the city, too. It probably had something to do with that fact that the Burning Talon needed time to recharge.

Rainbow seemed apathetic during the entire operation, not wanting to speak with anypony. She felt like a part of her died inside. The city that she could never abandon was now about to fall into the enemy’s claws. It frustrated her to no end. At one moment, after the ponies were taken to safety, Spitfire approached her.

“Trust me. I know how this feels. I think every pegasi shares their feelings with you inside them. But I’m afraid we have no choice.”

Rainbow almost broke down hearing these words. So, her heroes were powerless in that matter as well. The fiery-maned pegasus tried to find a way to cheer her up.

“Hey, Rainbow Dash. Look at me.”

The blue pegasus slowly rose its head to meet Spitfire’s sight. She was smiling dimly.

“Do not think this is over. This battle is pretty much undecided. The enemy suffered heavy causalities, but unfortunately, so did we. They may think they’ve won, but in truth, neither side succeeded. Once we bring our forces together, we’ll strike back at them.”

These words made Rainbow feel a little better. She saw other ponies from her squadron coming to them. With a determined voice, the blue pegasus said:

“You’re right, Spitfire. I mustn’t think of this as a loss. We all did an awesome job.”

Others nodded and, leaving behind the damaged Cloudsdale, they began to fly in the direction of Canterlot. It was there where the ponies were ordered to regroup. The entire battle made the pegasi lose about six fliers and while the griffins reported greater casualties, they at least acquired a moral victory by taking over enemy’s base.

Fluttershy approached Rainbow Dash on the way and asked her if she was feeling any better. Rainbow didn’t respond at first, but then she gave her friend a look full of confidence and replied by saying:

“Don’t worry about me. We’ll return... and we’ll take back our shattered skies.”

Chapter 9: The Trump Card

Regrouping after enemy’s assault, the fliers ready themselves.

A bold plan is formed to destroy the superweapon.

Facing their hardest mission so far,

The heroines prepare to sortie, their spirits enforced.

Chapter 9

"The Trump Card”

February 7th, 2019

0745 hrs

CanterlotA group of little fillies, who were recently relocated from Ponyville, were waiting in a room of a building that temporarily served as a school. They were clearly anxious, even the Cutie Mark Crusaders, three little ponies tied by friendship and a goal to finally earn their cutie marks as being the only remaining “blank flanks” in the Ponyville school. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were worried about their sisters, Applejack and Rarity. The former had returned to the front after a quick reconvalescence and the latter didn't send a single word to Sweetie Belle since the whole war started. She tried telling herself that it was due to Rarity's responsibilities, since she was also creating vests for the Equestrian Allied Forces and was probably very busy. Even Scootaloo, a filly who idolized Rainbow Dash, and one who always kept the other Crusaders’ spirits high, was visibly confused.

Aside from them, Derpy’s daughter, Dinky, was also deeply worried about her mother’s safety, completely unaware that she was a part of Equestria’s greatest flying team. The Cutie Mark Crusaders managed to befriend her easily and kept her company. Recent events, along with sudden changes they all went through, slightly hastened their maturity, as they were now helping other fillies getting accustomed to their new situation. Cheerilee, who was taking care of the entire group, was very grateful for their assistance.

The teacher had just walked into the room that was made to resemble a class. All ponies stopped their conversations and focused on Cheerilee. She looked like she had something important to say.

“Good morning, my little ponies,” she spoke with a tender voice.

“Today, we’re going to be having some special guests, so I’d like you all to get ready, as they should be here any minute. I believe you’ll enjoy their company.”

Some curious whispers rolled along around the class soon after Cheerilee finished. Apple Bloom asked her:

“Who is going to visit us, Mrs. Cheerilee?”

“Forgive me, Apple Bloom, but I can’t tell you. That would have ruined the surprise.”

As the morning sun was slowly emerging from beyond the horizon, Firefly and her friends from Mirage squadron were about to reach their destination; the very same building in which Cheerilee and the fillies resided. The pink pegasus was still feeling uncertain.

“How did I got myself into this?” she asked Rainbow Dash. “There are more important things to do than playing with fillies. What if we get an assignment?”

“Relax, Flash,” Lightning Bolt spoke.

“The main analysts are still working over the details of The Burning Talon data you gave to the princesses and Gale. If they learn something, they will let us know and we’ll fly to the castle in no time.”

Cloud Kicker seconded her statements.

“Sometimes you should take that serious look off your face and smile a little, Firefly. I’m sure it would make you feel better.”

Firefly didn’t respond at first, but Medley heard her muttering: “That’s easy for you to say.” It was hard to blame her for that attitude. Unlike the other pegasi, Firefly had a really rough life. The green pegasus approached her and gave out a friendly grin. It somehow made the atmosphere less tense. Rainbow noticed the building they sought and started descending toward it, with others following her. Derpy wasn’t showing it, but she was very delighted. She would finally see her daughter after weeks of uncertainty. Cloud Kicker noticed Cheerilee looking out of the window, too. As the pegasi landed before the entrance to the building, the cherry-colored mare went out to greet them.

“Thank you so much for coming. The kids are waiting. Please, follow me.”

In the class, the fillies were still discussing and wondering who could be their “special guests.” Cheerilee then walked into the room and motioned the seven fliers to follow her in. The kids watched them enter one by one. The Cutie Mark Crusaders were rejoiced to see familiar faces of Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Derpy among them. Before Cheerilee even got a chance to introduce the fliers, Dinky suddenly jumped up from her chair and ran toward Derpy, shouting: “Mommy! Mommy!” until she was embraced by the pegasus.

Their eyes filled with tears of joy. Derpy didn’t wanted to let her daughter go... she wanted for the time to stop... for the war to end. But she knew that such moment was still away and had to cherish this little respite she earned with her friends. Others looked with heartwarming smiles at them. They perfectly understood what these two ponies were going through. When the emotions cooled down a little, Cheerilee gave a proper introduction:

“My little ponies, I’m pleased to meet you with the Mirage squadron, our aerial angels. These seven pegasi are putting up their best efforts to protect Equestria from the threat of griffin invasion. By my request, they have agreed to spend some time with you.”

Once each of the fliers presented themselves before the fillies, Rainbow Dash took point:

“Since we have some free time, let’s get things straight. You kids have any questions?”

It was natural they had. Each filly asked several of them, and the pegasi were more than pleased to answer, but the questions were not always easy. Some were asking if they’ll be able to come back to Ponyville or if this entire ordeal is just “one, crazy dream.” Two fillies were even worried about their parents, from whom they haven’t heard a word since they were relocated to Canterlot. Both Medley and Fluttershy were assuring them that everything will be alright, even though it was hard for them to lie in the children's’ faces. They knew this war would not end anytime soon, and there were going to be many sacrifices...

With clearly visible anxiety in their eyes, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were concerned about Applejack and Rarity, but Rainbow Dash assured them they were doing fine.

“Applejack is back in top condition. I heard her team was conducting a special operation in Hoofington’s vicinity, lately. That’s very close to enemy positions, but they’re doing a fine job. As for Rarity, Twilight told us she rather complains about the uniform color and decided to repaint it from green to purple. She says it blends well with her mane,” the blue pegasus remarked.

This certainly eased the tension. Sweetie Belle even laughed that it's very typical of Rarity. Scootaloo was more curious about Firefly, as she found her bearing striking resemblance to Rainbow. She came closer to her and tried to talk. While initially reluctant, Firefly actually opened up before Scootaloo after several attempts from her side.

“You and Rainbow Dash have a lot in common, Mrs. Firefly.”

The pink pegasus chuckled, noting that it was the first time she was being called “Mrs.” in a long time and asked Scootaloo to call her just by name. The two then engaged in a conversation and Firefly learned that the orange filly held deep respect for Rainbow Dash. She pointed out her strong points: loyalty to her wingmates, her determination and improbable flying skills. Scootaloo blandly admitted that she wanted to be like Rainbow one day. But Firefly told her that she shouldn’t be thinking that way.

“Look, kid. Everypony is special. There are no two ponies who are the same. It’s good that you see Rainbow as an example to follow, but that’s where you should stop. You need to create your own image... otherwise, you’ll only be in Rainbow’s shadow.”

These words didn’t put Scootaloo in good mood at first, so Firefly followed up, adding:

“Who knows... maybe one day you’ll become just like her. But you’ll start your own legend. Maybe even bigger than Dash’s. It’s all within you, kid. Remember that.”

Firefly then started walking toward the others, when she heard Scootaloo whispering: “Thanks.” This made Firefly smile. Since the death of her parents, she slowly started feeling relief in her heart again. She looked at her wingmates, entertaining other fillies: Fluttershy was singing them a beautiful song, Rainbow Dash and Cloud Kicker played with a different group and Medley was telling some curious ponies about various beautiful sights she laid her eyes upon since she joined the squadron, as it allowed her to go to places she’d never been to before. Firefly then noticed Derpy on the side of everything, chatting with Dinky.

She approached them and heard the little unicorn speaking to Derpy:

“Mom, you never told me you were a part of a squadron.”

“Um, well... I didn’t had a chance to tell you, Dinky.”

She let out an excusing laugh.

While Firefly knew that it would be best to not interrupt them, she wanted to talk and let her emotions loose. Thankfully, Derpy was more than willing to speak with her, as she sent Dinky to play with other fillies.

“You have a cheerful daughter, Ditzy,” Firefly noted, forgetting to use Derpy’s real name.

She didn’t seem to mind that at all, though.

“She’s my entire world. I don’t want to ever see her suffer again, like on that fateful day... Firefly, can I have a request?” the grey mare asked suddenly.

“A request?”

“If we get a mission to take The Burning Talon down, can I be the one to destroy it?”

This question utterly surprised Firefly. When she asked for reason behind the request, Derpy stated that this contraption reminds her of what the griffins planned to do with the fillies in the first weeks of the war. She hoped that if she could destroy that superweapon, it would ease her pain. Firefly understood, but tried to reason with her:

“We don’t even have a plan to carry the operation out yet. Once that is made, we’ll worry about getting to The Burning Talon and taking it down.”

Derpy was expecting that kind of answer. Still, she felt saddened, as her ears flopped and she hanged her head down. Firefly thought of something. She asked Derpy an unusual question.

“I was wondering... why are you cross-eyed? Don’t you have a problem with that?”

The grey pegasus looked at Dinky, playing and laughing, and replied:

“It’s true that at times I feel a bit strange, but my eyes had always been like this... ever since... since Dinky appeared in my life. Maybe I had a normal sight before, but I can’t remember that. I got used to this situation, and she doesn’t seem to complain, either.”

“OK, but I still don’t get it; can’t you get eye surgery or something?” Firefly insisted.

“No... it’s best to keep it that way.”

“But... why...?”

Derpy’s eyes met Firefly’s and she spoke with a quiet, but confident voice.

“One eye is there to watch over my daughter and see her grow. The other is to protect Equestria from danger and ensure that Dinky can live in it. That’s my resolve.”

Firefly didn’t say anything to that, but quietly thought about what she just heard. Derpy’s words were the embodiment of pure love and care—feelings that Firefly was denied when her parents died. Somberness awoke in her soul again when she imagined them. Derpy saw that Firefly was sad and offered her a comforting hug. The pink pegasus returned it. Nopony seemed to have noticed it, though, but a bond of friendship was officially formed between the two mares.

Time passed, and though the ponies had great fun and were no longer feeling worried, it all ended around 10AM when Lightning Bolt received a call from Gale, requesting their appearance at the Canterlot Castle. It seemed to be of utmost importance. The pegasi were readying themselves to leave, with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy promising the Cutie Mark Crusaders to remind Rarity and Applejack about them.

When they were outside and ready to fly, Cheerilee and Dinky were seeing them off. The unicorn filly hugged Derpy again and seemed like she wanted to say: “Take me with you... don’t leave me again.” The grey pegasus was trying her best not to cry. She wanted to stay with Dinky and give her care, but there was a task ahead for her and her friends.

"Don't be sad, Dinky. We will come back and everything will be alright," she assured the little unicorn.

Cheerilee promised to look after the fillies as long as it would be necessary. Understanding that there was no other way, Dinky waved at her mother sadly, holding tears.

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo came to see the Mirage squadron off as well. As they were taking into the skies, the fillies started cheering for them. Medley then heard Cheerilee exclaiming:

“May the sun and moon shine upon you, Angels of Equestria!”

The fillies immediately caught that and begun to chant: “Angels! Angels!” as the pegasi flew back to the castle. Fluttershy was really moved by that, and others felt the same way. But Firefly reminded them of an important mission that was about to fall on their shoulders.

“You know, it’s actually a good thing you brought me here. I see now that life doesn’t have just the curves. It also has some straight paths. When we’ll go to destroy The Burning Talon, we must do our very best. If it’s to make sure these fillies will have a future, we WILL succeed!”

“YEAH!” the other pegasi responded, as they were approaching the castle, ready to land. Gale and the Wonderbolts were already waiting for them on the ground.

==========

1012 hrs

Canterlot Castle, Briefing RoomOnce everypony made their way to the room where Gale was about to begin the briefing, they heard from the Wonderbolts that the situation was growing tense. While The Burning Talon hadn’t fired a single shot since Cloudsdale was taken over, anxiety was still ever-present in ponies’ hearts. It almost seemed as if the griffins decided a different psychological tactic: they were trying to defeat their opponents with fear. Constant turmoil and uncertainty would prove to be terminal for any hopes of ending the conflict before destruction would spread to levels beyond control.

Gale called everypony to look at the giant screen, where the details of The Burning Talon were being displayed. As the fliers were analyzing it, Gale begun the briefing: “Thanks to the data that Firefly managed to uncover, as well as the, pardon me for saying it, performance of The Burning Talon in Cloudsdale, we’ve managed to learn some structural details about it. For the last few hours, our specialists from the Department of Tactics were trying to come up with a plausible method of attacking this superweapon.”

“And? What did you learned?” Rainbow Dash was more than curious.

Changing a screen on the projector, which was now showing the main structure that supported a giant cannon, Gale answered:

“As predictable as it may sound, The Burning Talon is heavily fortified. It consists of four facilities equipped with jamming devices, which are known to interfere with any kind of communications. These are surrounded with anti-air artillery turrets, set to automatically fire at any unit that will be identified as hostile.”

“I guess that means us,” Medley thought.

“Correct. These facilities and turrets surround the actual superweapon, which, beside the main cannon, is also supported by several smaller turrets, which fire short-distance laser beams. And while they have nowhere as much reach as the main laser, they can still cover the entire area around The Burning Talon”.

Every detail Gale kept bringing up only seemed to make it more certain that this mission would be extremely difficult.He reminded the pegasi that the main laser can fire three times at rapid succession before having to be cooled down, but also brought up a new detail that further analysis uncovered. It was possible for The Burning Talon to fire just a single laser every thirty seconds, which greatly reduced the cooling process. The good thing about this alternate method of attacking was that its accuracy was severely reduced, as it would need to lock on different targets in quick succession. The red pegasus stated that it might be one of the keys to destroying the laser superweapon.

He then got into actual mission details.

“This operation will be referred to as “Fire Extinguisher” from now on–”

Gale suddenly paused, hearing Medley chuckling. But the green pegasus quickly became serious and knew it was no laughing matter.

“It shall be divided into three, possibly four phases. Your first objective is to approach The Burning Talon without being detected by the enemy. To do this, you’ll have to fly at either very high or very low altitude.”

“How exactly high or low?” Lightning Bolt asked.

“Either below 1200 or above 12000 feet. Going anywhere between these values will cause their radars to pick you up and you’ll be mincemeat ,” Gale replied.

Cloud Kicker’s curiosity reached its peak and asked Gale why The Burning Talon was designed in the first place. Before the red pegasus could answer, Firefly spoke first:

“They thought they could keep it all hush-hush when they said it would be developed as a defense system, designated for reducing any possible threats of avalanches. Y’know, using lasers to reduce falling boulders and chunks of rock to little bits.”

The pegasi all agreed that this reasoning was beyond ridiculous. Everypony knew there were many much safer methods of preventing an avalanche, and one of the them was to stay quiet, as Derpy pointed out, causing other ponies to laugh. Gale then carried on the briefing:

“If you’ll manage to slip past their radars and make it to The Burning Talon, Phase 2 of the operation will commence. Here, your job it to take down each of the jamming facilities. As long as they’re operating, your communicators will be next to useless. Don’t forget the anti-air turrets, too. They need to be destroyed as well.”

Saying this, he displayed a picture of the four facilities and their defenses. All of them appeared to be made of a breakable material.

Spitfire pointed out that it would also be possible that there might be actual griffin fighters stationed by the superweapon, too. While none of the reports confirmed that, Gale decided to include them as a possible threat. It would be better for the Mirage squadron to go and be prepared to face something more than just turrets and the jamming facilities rather than run into griffins without knowing it. Fluttershy asked if they can count on any support, but the answer was not pleasant and only rose more doubts.

“The Burning Talon is operating around an area that is impossible for anypony who can’t fly to reach it. I’m afraid ground support is out of the question.”

All these factors combined so far and the possibility of additional enemy forces weren’t making the mission look any easier. Soarin’ then took point:

“In light of this, we’ve managed to round up two additional pegasi squadrons that will cover your attack on the superweapon once you’ll get there. Although, considering the importance of the target to the enemy, I’m afraid there’s no way to avoid casualties from their resistance. Especially if some of them will be like those we’ve fought in Cloudsdale.”

“We’ll make sure the casualties will be minimal,” Rainbow Dash promised.

Gale then changed the screen to explain Phase 3. This one was showing the structural data of the main tower, where the laser that fired at Cloudsdale was mounted. He explained that the only way to actually destroy The Burning Talon is to break into it, in an attempt to bring down the generators that power its core. There was a problem, however. The main tower was made of much more resistant material than the rest of the towers or the jamming facilities and making even a single hole in it would require either several focused attacks performed one after the other or a big amount of physical strength. At this moment, the ponies were not in possession of any weapon that would do enough damage to create an opening.

However, Rainbow Dash had an idea, but stated she’ll be needing the help of everypony else.

“I’m going to try and perform a Sonic Rainboom. The force of the blow should be powerful enough for me to make—”

“Hold on! You can perform a Sonic Rainboom? Seriously?” Firefly asked.

Other ponies, as well as the Wonderbolts themselves ,confirmed it, and told Firefly about the Best Flyer Competition that was held in Cloudsdale about two years ago. It was then that Rainbow Dash saved them and Rarity from falling to their doom with the Sonic Rainboom.

A technique that many ponies believed to be just a legend was in time adopted as one of Rainbow’s signature moves. Fluttershy even mentioned that it wasn’t the first Sonic Rainboom the blue pegasus performed, but wasn’t dwelling too much into details. She only remarked that it helped her and her friends earn their cutie marks in a way. Firefly was fully impressed.

“I guess there’s more to you than meets the eye, huh, Rainbow Dash?” she stated, making Rainbow blush a little.

But when asked about the details of this daring maneuver, she explained that if there will actually be griffins waiting for them, the ponies will have to keep them away from her, while she’ll try to reach an extremely high altitude and descend as fast as she could. Hopefully, she would break the sound barrier and perform the move. While Gale pointed out that it was very dangerous, Rainbow reminded him that they didn’t have an alternate strategy, to which the red pegasus fully agreed.

“ell, if the Sonic Rainboom will be successful, and you’ll manage to break inside The Burning Talon, that is when the Phase 4 comes in. You’ll have to find and shut down or destroy the three generators that power the superweapon. This should cause the main core to overheat and explode, destroying The Burning Talon. It should be enough to cripple the griffins long-range strike capabilities. If we’ll succeed, it might actually become a turning point in the war.”

“And if we fail?” Lightning Bolt asked.

“We won’t!” Cloud Kicker spoke.

“I know we won’t fail. This is a mission we mustn’t fail!”

This kind of optimism was typical of the purple pegasus, but this time, determination went on par with it. It seemed the moments she had with the fillies this morning were still in her mind. Others also agreed that their job must be completed. When Lightning Bolt decided to do additional analysis, she discovered that the upper section of the main tower was apparently weaker than other parts of the structure. It led Rainbow Dash to be assured that it would be vulnerable to the Sonic Rainboom, which will become a breakthrough moment in this operation. Gale concluded the briefing, but before the pegasi could leave the room, a pink earth pony suddenly entered it. Fluttershy and Rainbow instantly recognized the pony as Pinkie Pie. She apologized for eavesdropping, but heard that the fliers were “feeling a little blue,” so she proposed to throw them a party in order to boost their confidence and spirits. Firefly smacked herself, squeezing her eyes shut as she dragged her hoof down her face.

“Girl, did you hit the ceiling with your head or something? A party before an assignment? That's the most ridiculous idea I've ever heard!”

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash laughed, however. They knew Pinkie Pie well. They knew her parties had something special in them. Something that always made them feel better. Both mares agreed to her proposition and the pink pony burst out of the room, shouting that party will begin in the palace at 1500 hours, which gave the ponies about two hours to prepare for it. The Wonderbolts decided they would like to attend the party as well, considering they’ve decided to aid the Mirage squadron in joint operation.

While Firefly was still unsure, the rest of her team kept asking her to come with them and she ultimately said “yes”.

==========

1524 hrs

Canterlot Castle, Ballroom

Pinkie Pie managed to spread the news about the party throughout the city and rounded up pretty much every citizen who was willing to forget about the horrors of war and the uncertainty of tomorrow. Twilight Sparkle and Rarity even agreed to use their magic to illuminate the ballroom in hundreds of colorful lights. While Pinkie herself provided majority of the musical factor, Equestria’s best disc jockey, DJ Pon3, who was also invited, entertained the guests with various jumpy tunes, with hits such as “Equestria Girls” or the famous “Pony Polka.”

Applejack and Apple Bloom tried to convince some ponies to join them in ‘bobbing for apples,’ but aside from the other Cutie Mark Crusaders and AJ’s friends, there weren’t many volunteers. The orange pony was reminded of the Grand Galloping Gala she attended with Twilight and the rest of the pack, and what a disaster that it became. For them, however, it was an experience which proved that friends help make everything more fun.

The two princesses, Celestia and Luna, were often found speaking with various noble ponies and, from time to time, they even had a small talk with Twilight and Spike, possibly to discuss some details about different operations.

Rainbow Dash just wandered around the ballroom, joining up a dance or two at one moment, and then went to talk with her friends that she hadn’t been seeing for some time. She also thanked Pinkie Pie for throwing this party. It really made her feel that, despite the ongoing conflict, the joy in the ponies’ hearts did not die, but went to a sort of slumber. As it went on, the ponies finally started to show signs of happiness, as even the noble ones were no longer disgusted by some wild dances that Pinkie Pie and Cloud Kicker were performing. It seemed as if time has slowed down a bit...

But Rainbow noticed Firefly was looking slightly annoyed by all this and saw her leaving for an outside balcony. Before the blue pegasus followed her, she took a glimpse of Scootaloo showing some acrobatic tricks to a few spectators. When Rainbow found Firefly, she tried to speak with her, even though the pink mare wasn’t very talkative at first.

“You know... maybe what Cloud Kicker said about you was true. You should loosen up a little. After all, it’s a party. Everypony loves parties...”

“It may sound like nonsense to you, Rainbow, but... I’m afraid I forgot how to have fun at parties,” Firefly confessed.

“It’s not that I don’t appreciate it... It just doesn’t feel right for me.”

Rainbow got closer to her and saw her eyes gazing into the setting sun. The blue pegasus decided to try a different approach.

“I know that you had a hard time, but... If you’ll keep on living by your past, you’ll go nowhere. You have to look into the future... Remember... Remember those fillies today?”

Firefly looked at Rainbow. She knew what she meant. The rainbow-maned pony continued.

“That short time we’ve had with them... and this party, too... It made me realize that despite all difficulties and hindrances, nothing can bring our spirits down. It’s like... this war somehow made them lie dormant in us... And they were waiting for a moment to awake. ... You know what I mean?”

Rainbow had a feeling she was just talking random words. However, her doubts were erased by Firefly's smile.

“... Yeah, I think I do. Times may be hard, but the happiness and optimism of the ponies will never fade away. Yet... I fear that I had lost these feelings and can’t seem to regain them on my own. I... I may need some help in that.”

Rainbow Dash wrapped her left arm around Firefly’s neck and said, with a soothing voice:

“Those feelings never left you, Firefly. Like I said, you just need to awake them...”

At that point, they suddenly heard Pinkie Pie at the microphone. She was calling everypony to the main dance floor and asked Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and the other members of the Mirage squadron to join her on the stage. While slightly confused, Rainbow and Firefly went inside. Princesses Celestia and Luna took care of assembling the crowd before the large stage, where a band of three ponies was preparing their instruments. Even though there were drums, they didn’t have a drummer, so Spike decided to give it a try, to which the ponies agreed. Pinkie decided to try and sing a new song she wrote just recently, with some help from the Cutie Mark Crusaders, who also joined the ponies on the stage. There, Pinkie asked Rainbow and the others to help her with performing it. While they had no idea what the song would be about, although Pinkie assured them they will know the second they will her sing the initial lyrics. She also motioned Twilight, Rarity and Applejack to join in, too.

As DJ Pon3 provided the beat and the band started playing a rousing melody, made of violins, guitars and drums, which were occupied by Spike, Pinkie, her friends and the Crusaders begun to sing:-----------------

“Gotta stay fly! Gotta stay strong!

Aces ready! All day long!

Ain't no hiding from them in the big blue sky

These fliers be comin' for ya from the left and from the right

Not just fighters, it’s desire

Like an eagle spittin' fire

Turn around my friends, behind ya

Chase’em down, down to the wire

Achieving every victory written down in history

This mission is the vision, so just listen, listen...!

Gotta stay fly! Gotta stay strong!

Aces ready! All day long!

Gotta stay fly! Gotta stay strong!

Aces ready! All day long!”

When the musicians went for a short instrumental break in between, Twilight and Applejack motioned Firefly and the other pegasi to take over the signing. While the pink pegasus was still looking puzzled about this musical number, her companions already knew what message they had to deliver to those who were listening. They already got used to the melody and were prepared to play their part. The band was about to carry on playing the melody and DJ Pon3 resumed the rousing beat. The Mirage squadron begun the second part. None of them had problems in singing... and without rehearsal. Pinkie and the others just stood in the rear, letting the pegasi take center stage and only coming out to join them during the refrain.

“Once we been betrayed

There ain't no looking back

Get ready for this raid because we are ready to attack

Got the glory, got the guts

We ate up, straight up, dangerous

Face to face to us

They’ve got no aim on us

Once there was a time

Once there was a wall

But written in the stone

Walls are made to fall

Don't scratch all that harmony

They won’t be layin' harm in here

We’ll take it all from here

And now you gonna see!

Gotta stay fly! Gotta stay strong!

Aces ready! All day long!

Gotta stay fly! Gotta stay strong!

Aces ready! All day long!

Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly!

Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly! Fly!"

-----------------The entire ballroom was chanting with them during that last part, cheering on and encouraging the brave pegasi to give their best in the upcoming mission. Violins joined up briefly with the melody, while Twilight Sparkle and Rarity provided a beautiful solo choir. The Wonderbolts sang alongside the heroines, too.

“Somehow we’ll overcome

We’ll be goin' home

Ridin' through the flame

Got our colors showin'

So strong...for so long

So strong...for so long!”

While the song was about to end, there was still one last number. Twilight and Rarity gave the crowd some more of their vocal beauty. Soon, Firefly finally realized what was going on. They were performing this song to give ponies hope. She felt much better. Then, the rest of the band, except for the ponies who played on the guitars and Spike, stopped playing for a moment. Pinkie Pie and the Cutie Mark Crusaders joined Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Lightning Bolt, Cloud Kicker, Medley, Derpy, Firefly and the Wonderbolts for the final segment of the song.

“So strong...for so long

So strong...for so long

So strong...for so long

So strong...for so...

Gotta stay fly-y-y-y-y-

Gotta stay fly-y-y-y-y-

Gotta stay fly-y-y-y-y-

Gotta stay fly-y-y-y-y!”

A thunderous applause roared through the ballroom. As the band slowly hushed the song down, all ponies started cheering for the singers. The Royal Sisters looked at the performers, bowing before the crowd and thanking each other for the musical number, overjoyed by the words that they have passed to others. Their spirits certainly rose.

“It is just like you said, Tia,” said Luna. “We can always find moments for joy, even in the most desperate times. Your idea worked perfectly.”

“I only proposed it to Pinkie Pie. And she carried out her duty even better than I have hoped,” Celestia giggled.

“I’m so proud of them, Luna. I believe in them with all my heart. I know they will succeed,” the older princess added, embracing her sister.

This night had allowed Firefly and her team to put their doubts aside. While they knew everypony was counting on them, they had reasons to not fail. They would fight for the future of Equestria.

Chapter 10: Putting the Flames Down

At the dawn of a cold and snowy day,

The heroines approach the challenge ahead.

Avoiding traps and supporting each other,

They fight to secure the future of their kind.

Chapter 10

"Putting the Flames Down”

February 9th, 2019

0730 hrs

Equestria airspace, The Griffin Kingdom borderThe clouds were covering most of the sky. Snow was falling gently. What seemed to be another normal wintry day in Equestria was, in fact, something much more. Firefly, leading the flight, had her mind focused on the mission ahead. A very dangerous and risky one. She and her wingmares from Mirage squadron already knew how the whole operation should proceed in order to be successful. While the Wonderbolts initially planned to assist them, the growing chaos prevented the aces from doing so and forced them to stay in Canterlot to patrol the skies. But Soarin’ promised to send Firefly’s team assistance in the form of a two pegasi squadron he and Spitfire rounded up in the past few days. The ponies were looking around, gazing at the scenery, while flying toward the mountainous region where the Griffin Kingdom was. The silence among them was broken by Medley.

“Y’know... I’m feeling a little nervous.”

Firefly turned her head behind and said:

“If you’re scared, it’s not too late to go back. But if we do it, we may never have another chance in taking The Burning Talon down.”

“No... I won’t leave,” Medley decided. “I’ll stay, and I’ll help you as best as I can. It’s my responsibility as the squadron’s flier. It’s just that...”

Fluttershy approached her. She seemed to be a little worried, too.

“I know how you feel. And as much as I’m having some doubts too, I know that we are the only ponies who can do it. We must fight for our friends and their futures. If the griffins win...”

“They won’t win!” Derpy interrupted. “Not as long as we’re flying in the skies!”

“OK, gals, no need to start arguments,” Firefly intervened.

The pegasi instantly stopped talking and looked at her. She, of them all, had probably the best reason to fight against their feathered foes, yet acted strangely calm. The pink pegasus noticed it.

“This mission is gonna be really tough, so we should conserve our energy and save it for the real action,” she explained. “Besides, we won’t be alone, in a sense.”

At this point, Soarin’ contacted Firefly. All pegasi switched their communicators on to hear him, too. He was excusing them for not being able to join them in the flight, but stated that the friendly squadrons were inbound to their positions. “Contact them as soon as you’ll have them on radars, callsigns Racer and Burner.”

“Roger that, Soarin’. We’ll do it the instant the show up,” Firefly responded.

She asked if they would actually be good enough to assist them, but the Wonderbolt dismissed her worries by stating that being hoof-picked by one of Equestria’s finest aces has to mean something. Rainbow Dash was slightly interested in it and wanted to ask for details about the recruitment procedure, but just then, Lightning Bolt exclaimed:

“I’ve got several contacts on radar approaching from east and west!”

“It’s probably them.”

Firefly adjusted her communicator’s frequency to reach the newly arrived forces.

“Racer and Burner flights, this is Flash, from Mirage squadron.”

“Roger, Flash,” a voice of an adolescent colt replied. “This is Tornado Swirl, callsign Burner 1. Good to be flying with you.”

“Overdrive, callsign Racer 1 here. What he said,” the second voice belonged to a mare.

Both teams approached Firefly’s squadron and quickly got to know each other. Tornado’s squadron consisted of him and four other pegasi, while Overdrive had three additional wingmares. The ponies took a closer look on the team leaders; Tornado Swirl had a light green coat and dark blue mane, while Overdrive was sporting a lavender coat and a long, orange mane that looked similar to Fluttershy’s.

Rainbow Dash was still curious on how they were chosen. She got closer to Tornado and asked him:

“So, the Wonderbolts picked you to help us?”

“That’s right,” Tornado Swirl replied. “Our main purpose is to focus any possible enemy forces on us, rather than you. We’ll keep them busy while you’ll be taking the facilities down.”

“Wow, you guys must be pretty good,” said Cloud Kicker.

“We have some talents, but we’re nowhere as good or famous as you, gals,” Overdrive stated.

One of her wingmares had a different opinion, though.

“Why you’re being so modest, Overdrive? Just because they are good doesn’t mean we can’t be, too.”

“Don’t brag about it, Sea Spot. Overconfidence is your greatest weakness,” Racer's flight leader pointed out.

“What was that?!”

Firefly decided to cool the situation down, stating it’s not a good time for friendly banter. Lightning Bolt was amazed how she could remain so collected. Soarin’s voice sounded in everypony’s communicators again.

“Now that you have made a rendezvous, it’s about time this operation begun. Remember, you must fly either below 1200 or above 12000 feet, otherwise their radars will pick you up. You’ll need to infiltrate their air space and proceed to The Burning Talon. Once there, take down the jamming facilities and contact us as soon as that’s done. Is everything clear?”

All fliers acknowledged the information. Soarin’ ended the conversation, wishing everypony good luck. Stopping in midair and attempting to figure out the best way to reach the griffin superweapon, Rainbow Dash made a suggestion. “Why don’t we just fly in two groups? One low and one high.”

The idea seemed reasonable and simple. Flying in a group as large as three squadrons together would make it harder to maneuver in tight areas. After a brief discussion, all ponies agreed to Rainbow’s proposition. She chose Cloud Kicker and Derpy to assist her on the high altitude, while Firefly picked the other three pegasi to aid her lead close to the ground. Racer flight joined up with the Dash while the Burner team decided to follow Firefly.

“So, now we have sixteen fliers...” Medley did the counting and sighed in relief. “I feel a bit more confident now.”

“We can do it. Just stick to the objective and avoid their detector nets,” Lightning Bolt reminded.

“You should see the area they’re covering on your own radars. Stay clear of them.”

“Relax,” Tornado Swirl remarked. “It should be a piece of cake for Equestria’s top flying team, right?”

“As you’re about to see,” Rainbow noded. “I guess we should get it started, right, Flash?”

“Affirmative. Commencing operation Fire Extinguisher!” she announced, but Medley laughed quietly again.

Other ponies looked at her, confused.

“Sorry. I just couldn’t resist,” she said.

Cloud Kicker jokingly added that when another codename for an operation will be chosen, they should consult the Wonderbolts before it would be officially adopted. Everypony chuckled on this statement, but soon, they gathered their thoughts and flew toward the mountains, leaving Equestria and entering the enemy’s home territory.

==========

0921 hrs

The Griffin Kingdom airspace, en route to The Burning TalonHaving split into two teams, the pegasi entered the area under a large radar coverage. Remembering Soarin’s advice, Firefly’s squad flew below 1200 feet, an altitude so low, they had to maneuver carefully in order not to crash into numerous mountains that were in the region. The pink flier and Tornado Swirl were leading the way, with other ponies following them closely. There were moments when they had to break away in emergency so they wouldn’t run into a detector net. But generally, there wasn’t much complication on their end.

Rainbow’s group had an easier task, since majority of the detector nets were limited to 11500 feet. However, sometimes one or two ponies had to descend a bit, as they weren’t used to atmospheric pressure and cold on such a high altitude. One such descent, when one of the pegasi from Racer squadron went lower due to his wings becoming numb, would have ended with them being discovered. Luckily, Cloud Kicker managed to put him back in formation. It took the fliers about two hours of evasive flights and searching for a way pass the detector nets to finally clear the area.

They suddenly started hearing static in their communicators, indicating they were approaching a sector under strong jamming effects. Their radars managed to remain operational, so when Medley and Sea Spot returned from scouting to confirm the facilities’ locations, it turned out some of the griffins were actually stationed nearby. While that information didn’t make the mission any easier, the ponies were prepared for that by counting their enemies as a factor in the operation. Firefly went on to distribute the squadrons. All pegasi stopped in midair and approached her.

“OK, here’s the deal,” she begun. “As expected, the feathered fellas are lying in wait for us. Let’s not allow that to stop our advance. There are four facilities that emit those signals which are making the communications difficult. We need to destroy each of them. Additionally, they are all protected by anti-air turrets.”

“Yeah... I can tell it’s not going to be easy,” Medley deduced.

“I’m not worried. As long as we’ll work together, we’ll succeed,” Rainbow spoke her mind.

Firefly went on for the details.

“As discussed before, Racer and Burner teams will cover us and attempt to keep the griffins busy, while we’ll be trying to take the facilities down.”

“You can count on us,” Tornado Swirl assured.

“And us, too,” Overdrive added.

The other pegasi also seemed ready to begin. Rainbow, Derpy, Cloud Kicker and Fluttershy were told to destroy facilities located to the east, while Firefly’s group, which consisted of Medley and Lightning Bolt, would attack those on the left flank. Everypony agreed and switched the communicators off to prevent statics, ready to begin the flight.

Tornado Swirl and Overdrive rushed forward, their wingmates behind them in formation. The Mirage squadron flew in two separate directions and begun the assaults.

The griffins were indeed ready for the ponies. Scythe, leader of the Talon squadron, and Echo, who led the Gult squadron, spotted fliers approaching from the mountains.

“Seems like we have visitors, Scythe,” Echo commented.

“Then, let’s give them a warm welcome.”

Scythe contacted the operators of The Burning Talon, who were awaiting his commands.

“Fire at will. Don’t let them through,” he ordered.

His companions, Razor and Greyback, especially Greyback, who volunteered for this mission, were getting impatient. They still remembered Vulture’s demise in Cloudsdale and the latter swore to avenge him.

As soon as Racer and Burner teams entered the airspace, they were greeted by The Burning Talon’s laser, but managed to break to the right side, avoiding it. The griffins took flight, initially completely unaware of Firefly’s team. Having split away, Racer flight engaged the Talon squadron and managed to put up a good fight, while Tornado Swirl’s team fought against Echo’s. He himself was suspecting that this attack was more likely a cover for bigger operation, but nopony had any intentions on spilling the beans.

As the pegasi fliers were keeping them involved, the Mirage flight proceeded with relentless attacks on the facilities. While they were quite resistant, their combined efforts soon brought out the results when Lightning Bolt inflicted a crippling blow to one of the buildings. Moments later, Medley and Firefly performed a successful attack on another facility, rendering it useless.

Echo suddenly noticed that the flight pattern of Racer squadron was clearly evasive and not meant for dogfighting. He tried to send one of his wingmates to investigate the area. Tornado Swirl took him down with a swift blow and remarked with a smirk:

“Once again, you underestimate the ponies’ potential. Soon, you’ll be in a world of hurt.”

The Burning Talon fired again and while the ponies managed to dodge the shot, the griffins found an opening and attacked them ferociously. One of the fliers from Burner team suffered a lethal blow from Echo. Tornado Swirl confronted him personally, and they were locked in combat. Overdrive’s team managed to put up an effective resistance to Talon squadron and took advantage of Greyback’s impatience and anger. While Scythe tried to keep him under control, all of his orders fell on deaf ears. The eyes of the feathered fighter were focused only on killing the enemies before him, as he was driven into a sort of berserk rage. Overdrive and Sea Spot fought and managed to overpower him, but he had no intention of giving up. Scythe ordered him to retreat from the area, to which Greyback remained ignorant. This caused confusion among the griffin ranks and gave the ponies a sort of advantage.

Meanwhile, Firefly’s team just destroyed the third facility by using a clever trick: when Fluttershy went toward the turret to make it focus fire on her, Lightning Bolt and Medley attacked it from behind. The resulting force of the blow sent the turret’s rubble flying straight on the facility, rendering it vulnerable to combined assault. Their communications were almost back online, so Firefly tried to contact Rainbow Dash, asking for their progress. Rainbow answered the call as she was about to smash into the last building, but managed to pitch up, and it was Cloud Kicker and Derpy’s turn to bring it down, while the blue pegasus kept the turrets focused on her. Thanks to her superior agility, no bullet managed to scratch her body. Soon, the last facility collapsed.

The Burning Talon was practically defenseless now, although it still remained operational and just fired another laser, forcing Mirage squadron to dodge. When Rainbow reported about the destruction of the last jamming facility, Firefly praised the team and ordered a regrouping. Then, when all seven pegasi met, she contacted Soarin’, who was more than pleased with what he heard.

“Job’s done, Soarin’. The facilities are history. We’re off to the Burning Talon now.”

“Great work, Mirage! Keep it up,” the stallion responded before speaking to Rainbow.

“Dash, now it’s your time to shine. Show us what you can do.”

“We’ll provide cover. Just focus on doing the Sonic Rainboom,” Derpy assured her.

“Consider it done,” the blue pegasus responded.

Echo noticed additional pegasi approaching the combat zone. Greyback broke completely out of Scythe’s control and flew toward the Mirage fliers. They noticed he lost his mind and was ignorant to anything else around him. Lightning Bolt went to clash with him, while others joined Racer and Burner teams in fighting.

“YOU!” Greyback yelled. “A white pegasus! You’re responsible for Vulture’s death! I’ll make you pay, with your own life! Prepare to meet your maker!”

“How sad...” Lightning Bolt shook her head. “You fail to see his death was his own doing? His brash thinking and carelessness led to his downfall. Now you want to share his fate?”

“NO! I WILL kill you, or die trying! For the glory of the Griffin Kingdom!!!”

With that primal yell, he charged head-on toward the white pegasus.

She knew that he was desperate for revenge, but had no intention of going easy on her attacker. While Lightning was busy fighting Greyback, Echo noticed Rainbow Dash flying higher than anyone else, almost disappearing among the clouds. He tried to contact the Burning Talon operators.

“BT Crew, you saw that blue pegasus? What is she up to?”

“We’re not sure, sir, but it seems like she’s going to attack!” the operator responded.

“Is she insane? The Burning Talon is impregnable! Besides, if she’ll keep ascending, she’s gonna choke herself to death due to lack of air,” one of Echo’s companions remarked.

“Let’s just leave her alone and swat those annoying flies from the sky, Gult 13.”

But Echo remained careful, saying:

“We all have witnessed firsthand that ponies are more dangerous than we’ve anticipated, Gult 6. I cannot allow more losses on our side. I’ll try to intercept her.”

While the griffon tried to protest, Echo didn’t change his mind. He ordered his squadron to carry on engaging the pegasi and flew after Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy noticed it and tried to inform her. Just then, another laser fired from the Burning Talon, and she was forced to quickly evade the attack. She found herself face to face with Razor. Initially, she couldn’t bring herself to budge. Her opponent scoffed at her.

“What’s the matter? Are you scared? You should have stayed in Equestria, like your animal friends.”

“How... h-how do you know? ...Did you...!” Fluttershy babbled.

“That’s right. The two griffins who were searching your cottage were sent by me. I told the General that the Elements of Harmony would have been perfect gifts for his victory ceremony. Though it seems I’ll have to scratch those plans.”

Anger started to take Fluttershy over again when she remembered what the griffins did to Angel and her friends, wounding them and not sparing anyone. She quickly turned to Medley and asked her to inform Rainbow about Echo’s attempt to intercept her, which the green pegasus acknowledged. Then, Fluttershy’s sight became focused solely on Razor. “I’ll never forgive you for that. I used to think of this war as nothing, but a huge mistake... and I still do. But it’s a mistake YOU griffins did by starting it!”

Razor seemed completely unmoved and prepared for combat. In the meantime, Medley contacted Rainbow Dash, who was already high enough that she couldn’t see the blue flier, even with her great sight. But Echo was missing, too, and that made her feel anxious.

“Rainbow, come in! Echo went after you! He’s trying to stop you!”

While it was a little hard to decipher her at first, Medley clearly heard Rainbow saying:

“Let him try! I’ll engrave him into the Burning Talon if he gets in my way. You girls just worry about not getting shot down by other bandits. I have this one.”

“But, Rainbow...! It’s very dangerous!” Medley tried to make her realize the situation.

“Hey Kid, “danger” is my middle name!” the blue pegasus replied smugly.

“Just trust me, I know what I’m doing. You’re ought to be careful, so you’ll get to see the show in front seats!”

Medley had no answer to that, and she had to avoid attacks of the griffins, too. She decided to put her faith in Rainbow and wished her good luck, then returned to aid Overdrive and the rest of Mirage flight in confronting Echo’s squadron. Their additional problem was the small laser turrets around the superweapon, which they completely forgot to shut down. Tornado Swirl’s squadron said they will take care of it, and they broke away from combat. Scythe saw it and went after them with his two other wingmates, but not before looking behind himself and noticing Greyback engaging Lightning Bolt. The look on the Talon leader’s face showed clear signs of concern, cursing the angered griffin’s misfortune and recklessness

"You're obsession with that pegasus is going to get you killed."

==========

1217 hrs

The Burning Talon airspace

Rainbow Dash took a deep breath and proceed to swoop down toward the main tower, where the laser was mounted. She was at an extremely high altitude of 50000 feet and started flying down at a fast rate. Aware that one of the enemies will try to stop her from reaching her goal, Rainbow only picked up the speed and flapped her wings as strong and fast as she could. The increasing speed made the wind blow straight into Rainbow’s eyes, almost producing tears. She didn’t allow that to slow her down. After blinking twice and clearing the eyes, she carried on descending, gaining more and more velocity with every second. When the blue pegasus was about 30000 feet away from the target, her radar picked up a single contact in front of her: Echo!

“So he’s serious about trying to stop me,” Rainbow thought.

“Tough luck for him. I have no intention on stopping. I’ve got a job to do and I will do it!”

Echo noticed Rainbow flying down at extremely fast rate. He knew it would be dangerous for him, but he decided to stand in her way and take the whole force of the blow on himself. Every soldier with a bit of patriotism in heart would have done the same. Unflinched, he saw Rainbow getting closer, but remained on her path. While Rainbow could have avoided him, this would decrease her speed greatly and not give her enough time to regain it and perform the Sonic Rainboom. She decided to bet everything against the odds and flew down even faster. It seemed like Echo and Rainbow stared into each other eyes, as the blue pegasus was approaching her prey...

But suddenly, the griffon captain was attacked and knocked away by someone. Rainbow was surprised and slowed down a little bit... then, as she looked to the left... She saw the one who attacked Echo... the mysterious blue stallion with silver mane who saved the Mirage squadron over Gildsedale plains! The very same! He was flying right beside her.

“It’s... it’s you! Mobius!” Rainbow exclaimed.

While he didn’t respond, his smile and nod confirmed it. It’s like he was trying to say: “Good job. Fly toward victory”. Rainbow returned it with a smirk and increased her speed again.

Echo regained his senses and saw Mobius, too. There was no way he could have forgotten him; when they fought in the past, the blue stallion was being the one who decimated most of his seemingly invincible squadron all by himself. But the griffon had to worry about something else.

Rainbow Dash was about 10000 feet above the Burning Talon and pierced through the clouds. She reached her top speed and a few seconds later, a huge sonic boom surrounded by a beautiful rainbow graced the skies. The ponies and griffins stopped fighting and saw this phenomenon. Rainbow Dash targeted the very top of the main tower and, with a loud yell, she broke through the walls with immense force, creating an opening. The pegasi started cheering, with Racer and Burner flights, as well as Firefly, staring in amazement.

“Holy turnips, so it’s true! The Sonic Rainboom!” Overdrive made several back flips in the air out of excitement. “Wow...!” Tornado was awestruck.

He did not even noticed the Burning Talon was about to fire another laser. Firefly grabbed him and managed to move him out of the way. Unfortunately, Greyback, whose only desire was to kill Lightning Bolt, failed to notice anything. He managed to wound the white pegasus in the left wing and was about to strike again. She tried to dodge, hearing her radar signaling incoming impact from the laser. Putting everything in the line, Lightning performed a maneuver that seemed like she was about to attack Greyback, but ascended at the last moment.

The operators at the Burning Talon were surprised by Rainbow’s successful breach and the force of the impact rendered the main laser unstable. When it launched, Greyback was directly in the line of fire. While Lightning Bolt tried to warn him, and he ultimately saw what was happening, he noticed it too late. The laser blasted him with full power. With an ear-splitting scream, Greyback suffered lethal burns; his body turned into charcoal and begun plummeting down to earth. Lightning watched it in horror. She never wished such fate for anyone, even the worst of scum.

Before he died, he tried to reach his claw out, as if trying to grab onto something... but then, he shared Vulture’s fate. Carelessness became the death of them both.

Tornado Swirl and Overdrive went to recover the wounded Lightning Bolt. To their relief, the wing wasn’t badly damaged. Firefly called her wingmares and ordered them to follow Rainbow Dash inside the Burning Talon. They were going to bring the generators down. Razor, enraged by Greyback’s demise, tried to stop them, but Cloud Kicker got in his way, preventing the feathered soldier from going any further. Fluttershy initially wanted to assist, but the purple pegasus said she’ll be fine. When Lightning Bolt contacted Soarin’ and told him about a Sonic Rainboom being performed successfully, he couldn’t express his gratitude. Gale was more than surprised. The white pegasus then transferred the location of the three generators to the five pegasi who flew inside the superweapon so they could destroy them.

1240 hrs

The Burning Talon

Once inside, the Mirage fliers went to look for Rainbow. She was found below the rubble, and despite several bruises, she could still fly. Firefly took a glimpse around, noticing the large amount of free space, indicating this superweapon could be something more than just military facility, a base of a sort. After marking the locations of the three generators, Firefly and Medley went to destroy the one located in the east sector, while Rainbow Dash and Derpy flew to the southern one. Fluttershy was left alone, her mind still swarming with what Razor told her. She tried to focus and bring herself to shut down the generator.

As she was checking it for any possible leaks or weak spots, the wall behind her suddenly collapsed. Someone flew through it and crashed into the side of the room. To Fluttershy’s horror, it was Cloud Kicker. Razor managed to overpower her and he, too, flew inside. As he was towering above the purple pegasus, he prepared to strike the killing blow. Cloud Kicker tried to stand up, but was utterly at his mercy. Fluttershy didn’t hesitate.

"Let her go!"

She immediately flew into Razor and sent him away with a kick, then turned around and checked on her friend.

“Cloud Kicker! Are you hurt?”

“I’m... I’m fine. Just a little dazed. He took me by surprise,” she answered.

The griffon was just recovering from Fluttershy’s attack. He decided to finish Cloud later, as she was unable to move at this point anyway. Enraged at seeing her friend being wounded, Fluttershy could not stand for it. She and Razor engaged in combat. The gentle flier decided to fight on her own will for the first time during this war.

In the meantime, the other pegasi were slowly making progress in eliminating any resistance they encountered on their way to the generators. Eventually, after several minutes of searching, the fliers found their targets and, using powerful and precise blows, rendered them useless. An alarm suddenly flared and then, a computer-generated voice begun stating that the base was expecting an overload and an explosion might occur, should the situation will not be stabilized.

Firefly attempted to contact Fluttershy and ask her if she destroyed the last generator, but there was no reply. The yellow pegasus was too occupied with fighting Razor, or rather, avoiding his attacks. She still couldn’t bring herself to harm anyone, even if it was her enemy, who did so many evil things... Razor openly mocked her.

“You’ll keep flying like that and you’ll die really soon! A battlefield is no place for wimps!”

Fluttershy knew he was right. But she still believed that there could have been another way. She tried to reason with the griffin, telling him what happened to Greyback, but he already knew.

“That idiot deserved it! A soldier is always aware of what’s happening around him. He was a disgrace to our military and got what was coming to him!”

These words shocked Fluttershy. Razor had no respect for lives of others, even his own wingmate! Cloud Kicker managed to stand up and muttered:

“You’ve got some nerve saying that... coward!”

This statement infuriated Razor. Ignoring Fluttershy, he dived at the purple pegasus and stabbed her side with his claws. Although the vest protected her slightly, Cloud Kicker screamed, feeling immense pain. Fluttershy watched this, terrified, but she started to realize that war kewn no mercy. Angered, she flew toward Razor and knocked him away from Cloud Kicker. Despite the attack, the wound wasn’t serious. Both pegasi decided to support each other and through focused assaults, they slowly managed to overcome Razor’s initial advantage. Cloud answered Firefly’s call and told her about what was happening, to which the mare replied that they were coming back to help them. Razor seemed to be in dire situation, outnumbered and without hope for support for himself. Nevertheless, he was not willing to surrender.

Extending his wings, he charged at Cloud Kicker again, but she was prepared. Before he managed to strike her, the purple pegasus suddenly dived down and, putting her whole strength into it, sent the griffon toward the ceiling with a strong kick. He was coming directly at Fluttershy...

She suddenly remembered the first mission... the situation was exactly the same.

But this time, the yellow pegasus had her mind set on helping others.

“I... I will not run! You will not hurt my friends again!” she screamed.

Seemingly avoiding Razor at first by flying up, Fluttershy suddenly kicked him downward with her rear legs, sending him to crash directly onto the third generator. Razor tried to lessen the impact, but failed. Upon contact, it begun to sway around before finally collapsing onto the feather soldier. Razor attempted to remove it and carry on fighting, but he was pinned down by the heavy construction. A series of tremors shook The Burning Talon; it was falling apart. The rest of the Mirage squadron returned, and they all flew out through the opening made by Rainbow.

Not a few minutes after the ponies had managed to escape, several gigantic explosions ended the existence of the griffin superweapon. All fighting stopped. The half eagle-lion creatures were staring blankly at the smoking remains of their once powerful trump card. Echo ordered all of them to retreat from the area. Scythe tried to reach Razor. However, he never responded. Grieving upon the loss of majority of his squadron, he followed Echo. The ponies rejoiced on their victory.

Rainbow Dash immediately went to reach Soarin’ and report it to him, but not before looking to the clouds above her and noticing Mobius flying away. It was thanks to him this operation was successful. He appeared and disappeared like a ghost... “Soarin’... this is Rainbow Dash. The Burning Talon is destroyed. Mission accomplished.”

She could hear loud cheering in her communicator and the rest of the ponies heard it, too. This enormous bliss was well deserved. They had managed to succeed, despite huge odds. Once more, it was proved that by teamwork and support, they could achieve everything.

Tornado Swirl stated that one of his fliers fell in the fighting with Gult squadron, while Overdrive checked on her friends and noticed some of them were mildly wounded. Both Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker were hurt, too, though they rejoiced seeing each other alive. The purple pegasus tried to thank Fluttershy for saving her life... but the yellow pegasus didn’t say a word. Her eyes were gazing at a giant cloud of smoke. Firefly ordered all ponies to return to Canterlot in order to attend to the wounded. Tornado Swirl promised to give a detailed report to Princesses Celestia and Luna about the operation and the Mirage squadron parted ways with Racer and Burner teams.

Medley and Derpy had to literally drag Fluttershy with them, as she seemed completely unaware of what was happening. They could only hear her blabbering to herself:

“What.... what... wh—what have I done? What have I done...?”

Rainbow was worried about her. What could have been the cause...?

==========

1542 hrs

Canterlot, Mirage squadron’s baseThe Mirage’s return to Canterlot was greeted with a huge celebration. The streets of the capital were literally covered in flowers, an orchestra was set to perform and all ponies were cheering for their new heroines. But when the Royal Sisters arrived, they announced that an actual ceremony will be held later and asked the pegasi to come with them. While slightly disappointed, the crowd left the castle grounds and spread around the city. Once in the squadron’s base, Fluttershy left the other ponies and went to the Mission Control, demanding to be alone. Everypony were surprised by that statement, especially Rainbow Dash. She knew Fluttershy the best of them all. Seeing her good friend leave like this made the blue pegasus feel uncertain. She decided to go after Fluttershy. Other pegasi stayed in the room to discuss matters with Celestia and Luna.

When Rainbow entered the Mission Control, she found Fluttershy sobbing in the corner of the room. As she was approaching her, the yellow pegasus whimpered:

“Leave me, Rainbow! I want to be alone!”

“No, I’m not leaving you like this!” the rainbow-maned pegasus replied.

“Rainbow, please! Listen to me for once,” Fluttershy asked her with desperation.

“I’m not leaving until you’ll tell me what’s wrong!”

Not wanting to say anything at first, the saddened filly eventually opened up and told Rainbow Dash about Razor trying to kill Cloud Kicker and how she stopped him from doing so. The explanation brought some light on this. Fluttershy mentioned how she sent Razor plummeting toward the generator and making it fall on him. Even if he didn't die from that, the explosion that occurred later on was certainly fatal for him. Tears were streaming from Fluttershy’s cheeks as she carried on and her voice was getting more squeaky, about to break completely.

“Don’t you understand, Rainbow Dash? I... I-I-I I killed him! I killed a sentient being! ME!”

Covering her face with hooves, Fluttershy was crying her eyes out.

While she could grasp how terrible Fluttershy must have been feeling, Rainbow Dash tried to remind her of Razor’s actions.

“He was your enemy. His death was more than certain. Besides, that wasn’t your fault. You saved Cloud Kicker’s life!”

Fluttershy looked at her best friend, biting her lips and sobbing uncontrollably.

“B-B-But... it was my fault! He died because of me! I-I-I... I don’t know... This is too much for me... I-I can’t go on like thiiiis!”

“FLUTTERSHY!”

This sudden rise of volume in Rainbow's voice surprised and scared the yellow pegasus. Dash excused for that outburst and placed her arms on Fluttershy’s shoulders, looking into her green eyes, full of tears. The blue pegasus wiped them away and said quietly:

“You may not believe me, but I understand how you feel. Every pony feels horrible when they do something awful for the first time, especially if they kill someone. Unfortunately, killing is one of those things that become easier to bear the more you do it. During the war, all of ponykind’s worst instincts may surface. It’s important to not let them take you over."

Pausing briefly to take a breath, she asked Fluttershy:

“Listen, have you done that intentionally?”

“No, I would never kill anypony on purpose!” Fluttershy exclaimed with a high-pitched voice.

“I did it because Razor was threatening to kill Cloud Kicker!”

“That’s right,” Dash confirmed.

“It wasn’t your fault, then. You've done nothing wrong. So don’t blame yourself.”

Suddenly, the rest of the Mirage squadron fliers entered the room. They’ve heard everything.

“What Rainbow says is true,” said Lightning Bolt, now having her wounded wing wrapped in bandages.

“You can’t blame yourself for every single death in this conflict.”

“Losses in war are inevitable for both sides,” Firefly spoke.

“If you’ll keep thinking you’re responsible for all this, you’ll eventually go mad.”

“Don’t kick yourself. You did what was necessary to save Cloud’s life,” Derpy added.

The purple pegasus approached misty-eyed filly and said gently:

“I’ll never forget this, Butterf— um... I mean, Fluttershy. You have my thanks. If it weren’t for you, I would have been dead.”

Hearing all of her friends praising her rather than turning their backs on her for killing someone made Fluttershy confused. Rainbow noticed it and stood on her rear legs, using the wings to lift herself up. She extended her arms before the timid pegasus and asked with a warm smile:

“Hey, Fluttershy... want a hug?”

This was too much for her. Fluttershy cuddled into Rainbow and wept loudly. She couldn’t hold her emotions anymore. Crying and sobbing, she kept mumbling: “I’m sorry! Please, forgive me!” as the blue pegasus hugged her tightly, letting Fluttershy’s tears fall into her beautiful mane. Firefly didn’t know what to do, but the others had sympathized with the yellow pegasus. They approached, cuddled and nuzzled her, too. To Firefly’s surprise, Fluttershy was slowly calming herself down, although she still seemed unstable. Realizing that it would be the best thing to do, the pink pegasus came to her as well.

Just then, the door suddenly opened and the whole room was instantly lightened up. Princesses Celestia and Luna were inside, though not alone. Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Applejack were here, too. The Mirage fliers bowed before the Royal Sisters, as they came closer to the crying Fluttershy. Luna embraced her with wings.

“Dry your tears, Fluttershy and put your worries aside. Razor perished, indeed, but you were not the cause of his death.”

Princess Celestia told the ponies about the report that Tornado Swirl sent to her. Apparently, the superweapon’s emergency system blocked all entrances and exits out of the building soon after the Mirage squadron left it, preventing anyone else from escaping. Then, the explosions that occurred inside The Burning Talon, due to the core’s overheating, claimed the lives of those who were trapped. When the Royal Sisters left, Twilight and Applejack also added that Fluttershy’s act of saving Cloud Kicker was that of great courage. Despite the initial confusion, the yellow pegasus started to smile again, much to everypony’s joy.

Firefly decided to leave the room to let Fluttershy have some time with her friends and motioned other pegasi, besides Rainbow, to come with her. But then, the pink-maned mare approached her and spoke with a shaky, albeit grateful voice. “Please, stay with us, Firefly. After all, we are... friends.”

The pink pegasus wasn’t expecting these words. But she had no reason to decline Fluttershy’s plea. She looked at her with a grin and the two pegasi embraced warmly. The other ponies looked at them with soft smiles. Medley noticed tears were forming in Firefly’s eyes.

“Flash, are you... crying?”

“Don’t be silly! I just... have something in my eyes, that’s all,” Firefly exclaimed.

“OK, if that’s what you say...”

Before the pink pegasus could respond, Derpy called all ponies in the room to the window and they saw a lot of citizens on the streets, celebrating and rejoicing.

“They must be having a party. Shouldn’t we go down and join them?” the grey pegasus asked.

They were about to go join the celebration, but Rainbow suddenly said:

“I’ve got a better idea. We’ll make a party of our own! Hey, Pinks, you still have that cannon of yours?”

All of a sudden, Pinkie Pie drew out a big blue cannon, much to everypony’s surprise. Rainbow Dash approached Firefly, saluted before her and spoke in a very formal tone:

“Flash! Requesting permission to start the party!”

The pink pegasus chuckled visibly, but returned the salute, granting permission. Derpy hoped that some muffins and other sweet snacks would be a nice addition and Pinkie lamented she forgot to bake cupcakes! Just then, someone knocked in the door.

“You called?”

It was Spike. By Twilight’s request, he managed to gather some cookies and a giant cake with strawberry frosting from the Sugarcube Corner. The Wonderbolts came along, having helped the young dragon with transporting the sweets. They wanted to congratulate Mirage squadron for destroying the Burning Talon. Spitfire turned to Rainbow:

“Princesses Celestia and Luna will be holding an official ceremony to celebrate your victory at the Canterlot Castle Grounds by sunset. Are you interested in coming?”

Rainbow Dash thought about this for a moment and replied, though her answer was surprising:

“Sure, but we’ll come later... if you don’t mind.”

“OK then, see you there. And have fun.”

When the Wonderbolts left, Rainbow looked at her friends. They were staring at her in disbelief. Did she just turned down the invitation from her idols? Applejack came closer:

“Ya sure about this, Rainbow?”

“Yes, I am. Who knows when we’ll have another chance to celebrate like this. And... To be honest, I’ve missed you, gals. We’ve got a lot of things to catch up on. Since we have the time...”

Twilight understood the message and proposed to start the party. Pinkie pressed the button on her cannon, covering the room in balloons, streamers and other decorations. When Applejack told those interested about a successful recapture of Trottingham made a few hours ago, Rarity instantly went to sew and stitch Cloud Kicker’s vest. Soon, it was as good as new. Pinkie provided the entertainment with various tricks and tunes. Time slowly passed, with the ponies finally reunited and having wild fun.

As the sun was setting, Rainbow Dash decided to fly to the castle. Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack and Rarity were ready to go with her and so were the fellow pegasi. Before they left, Fluttershy approached Rainbow Dash and whispered to her:

“Thank you.”

==========

1956 hrs

Canterlot Castle Grounds

The citizens of Canterlot and other ponies, who had been relocated here in the past few days, were exclaiming their happiness about the hard-earned victory. As Firefly led her wingmares on a ceremonial flight over the streets, hearing orchestra accompanying it, everypony who saw them was cheering for the pegasi who made the seemingly impossible happen. Twilight and her friends were following the fliers closely until all of them reached the Castle Grounds. Greeted personally by the Wonderbolts and the Royal Sisters, the Mirage squadron, with their companions from Racer and Burner teams, who were also present, received a great amount of honors from all who came for the ceremony. But Celestia and Luna reminded their subjects that the war hadn’t ended yet. The enemy was still capable of fighting.

Additionally, Firefly stated:

“I hate to say it, but this war has only just begun. The griffins suffered heavy casualties and need to reorganize. Unfortunately, the same happened to us. But we have something our enemies lack: friends and the power of harmony. It unites us in our darkest hours! We want to give our word to you, ponies of Equestria: as long as the Mirage squadron will soar through the skies, this land will not fall! Long live Celestia! Long live Luna! Long live Equestria!!!”

Earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns, stallions and mares, colts and fillies who were gathered on the grounds; all of them responded with loud cheers. Treated like great heroines, Firefly, Rainbow Dash, Cloud Kicker, Fluttershy, Lightning Bolt, Derpy and Medley flew beside the Wonderbolts in a celebratory flight over the castle to thank the ponies for their support. Though the conflict was far from over, it seemed that, on this day, the stars were shining brighter than ever before over the ponykind.

Chapter 11: Encounter

Revelling in their outstanding victory,

The ponies are earned a short breather.

But the enemy hadn’t raised the white flag yet.

When the snow melts, new mission begins.

Chapter 11

"Encounter”

April 11th, 2019

0700 hrs

Gryphus, Griffin Palace Halls

The casualties sustained by the Griffin Army during the battle at The Burning Talon and the destruction of said superweapon were nearly crippling for them. Many saw that their glorious land wasn’t invincible, and they could, in fact, be defeated by the ponies. Needless to say, neither Black Star nor Red Cyclone, especially the latter, were pleased by this. They attempted to recruit additional soldiers to their army, but many griffins outwardly refused to join the ranks.

“Those cowards! Their sabotaging our campaign!” Red Cyclone yelled.

He and Black Star were traversing the halls of the palace. The dark griffon tried to restrain his emotions.

“It would seem that we pay the price for underestimating our foes. The Talon squadron has been nearly decimated. That last battle didn’t prove positive for the troops’ morale. If we are to succeed in this war, we must devise a new strategy...”

“Keep strategy to yourself, Black Star! I know what must be done. What bothers me is that the general still refuses to take any kinds of action so we could regain the lost ground!” Red Cyclone couldn’t comprehend his superior’s way of thinking.

“Our general is planning ahead. Something you should learn from him.”

These words slightly angered the crimson griffon, but he knew that his companion was telling the truth. Perhaps he should’ve been a bit more perspective. Regardless of failures they have suffered, the spirits of the griffins were still high. What they needed was a quick victory. An occasion had spurred just recently.

In spite of his anger, Red Cyclone mentioned he managed to get in contact “an old friend of his”. He didn’t reveal any details but stated to Black Star that he will meet her when they get to main chamber. Once they were there, both of them saw a female griffon waiting for them with a grin. Red Cyclone shook her claw in respect.

“Good to see you again.... G.”

“Spare me the introduction,” she said with an arrogant voice.

“What’s the reason you brought me here, Red Cyclone? You know I have no interest in this war of yours.”

“Of that, I’m aware,” the crimson griffon responded.

“But I thought you should know that an old friend of yours is hindering our progress.”

The griffon referred to as “G” didn’t know what Red Cyclone meant. She didn’t have many friends, so remembering one shouldn’t have been a problem, but still... He proceed to tell her about a group of seven pegasi which continuously foiled the griffins’ plans of invasion. As the conversation went on, Black Star kept on observing his partner with a bit of skepticism. “G” still seemed to be unconvinced, albeit interested to learn more about these winged ponies.

Red Cyclone showed her a picture of the group, and after a brief observation, she noticed a familiar looking blue pegasus with a rainbow mane. She couldn’t believe her eyes... The crimson griffon noticed her reaction upon seeing the pegasi.

“Now do you understand? These ponies have utterly taken your friend. She’s ain’t coming back. The pegasus is no longer going to fly alongside you. She abandoned what you two had in common just so she can protect other wimpy ponies. If you want her back, you’ll most likely have to kill her teammates. Otherwise...”

The female griffon’s eyes flared with anger.

“And I thought that Dash would become a bit smarter after I’ve left... Guess I’m gonna have to show her what stupid mistake she made!”

“Does this mean you’re going to take a part in the incoming attack on Ponyville?”

“Count me in. But I’m flying solo,” the female responded.

“Suit yourself. I’ll see you at 1100 hours.”

Without saying any parting words, “G” left the chamber. She appeared visibly shaken to Black Star. He approached Red Cyclone and asked:

“Do you know what you’re doing?”

“Any kind of deception is good to lure someone to your side. Besides, she’s pretty good. At least she’ll give those equines a hard time.”

“I just hope your strategy won’t backfire at you again,” Black Star muttered.

"Just you wait and see. We’re going to enjoy this!” the crimson griffon laughed evilly.

==========

1110 hrs

Ponyville airspace

Rainbow Dash was taking a well-deserved rest among the fluffy clouds. Any military affairs from the griffins have ceased for about two months, with only small battles going on as they tried to recapture some cities. Fortunately, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle kept their eyes open and led the ponies under their command through a successive chain of victories. It seemed that it was only a matter of time before the griffins would finally ask for a peace settlement. The pegasi from Mirage squadron were now off-duty most of the time, so they took this precious breather to spend some time on having fun rather than fighting.

But on this day, while Rainbow was “swimming” on the clouds, her communicator suddenly beeped. It was Lightning Bolt and she seemed very nervous. The blue pegasus asked her to calm down and then she explained the whole situation.

“The griffins are on the move again! Gale’s report indicates they’re heading toward Ponyville! Come back to Canterlot, we gotta scramble ASAP!”

“I’m on it!”, Rainbow replied and after she departed to the base, she said to herself: “Finally, some action. I don’t mind peace at all, but these guys are just asking for a throughout beating.”

The second she got within Canterlot’s vicinity, Rainbow noticed her friends flying toward her. It seemed they couldn’t afford to waste much time. The rainbow-maned flier instantly joined in the formation, next to Firefly. She mentioned to everypony that a large group of bandits was sighted coming from Cloudsdale. Rainbow briefly drowned herself in thoughts when she remembered her home town but heard every word Firefly was saying. It would seem the griffins were targeting three major areas in Ponyville: Sweet Apple Acres, known to be a sort of food bunker for the town, the main square and there were even some rumors they would try to attack from the outskirts. This would allow them to flank in and defeat anypony within the town’s perimeter.

As the winged mares were approaching Ponyville, Firefly went on to distribute the ponies to guard specific areas.

“I’ll stay at the town center. Supposedly, that’s where the main attack force will appear. Rainbow, you’re gonna defend Sweet Apple Acres, while Butterfly will stay on the outskirts. Just to make sure nothing bad will happen behind our backs. You two get to choose an additional wingmare for assistance.”

Rainbow picked Medley and Fluttershy chose Derpy. The green pegasus showed signs of excitement, as she was able to fly alongside her idol of a sort. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker joined up with Firefly.

“Remember to work together. We have a better chance as a team. If you encounter any griffins, you’re clear to engage and take down. Mirage squadron, fly!”

The seven pegasi split, with Fluttershy and Derpy flying south toward the yellow mare’s cottage. Rainbow took a course to the north. She was notified that Applejack and her family were willing to provide any possible support. Medley wondered what would she mean by that, and Rainbow reminded her of the pies that ponies used to transfer from Applelossa some time ago. They were kept in Applejack’s barn almost like in a giant fridge, thanks to the magic Colgate provided every few days. The pies were not only fresh and digestible, they could also be used as effective weapons.

Gale contacted them and reminded that the bandits may approach the Acres within 10 minutes. Both of the fliers prepared themselves. Their opponents appeared as predicted. It was a group of merely six griffins, with the majority of them coming from Northwind squadron. Rainbow recognized Zeakros, while Medley caught a glimpse on Edge, who hailed from his own team. None of them knew they were being watched by someone from the shadows...-----------------

1123 hrs

Ponyville Town Square

Firefly, Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker were already engaged in dogfights with several griffins. Their arrival came sooner than expected. But the three pegasi were not alone in this fight. While Apple Bloom was helping her sister at the Acres, her friends, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, could finally test their latest contraption: a homemade catapult. Using several objects they happened to gather in the past few weeks, the fillies continuously launched them at the feathered warriors. It not only broke their concentration on battling the pegasi, but also rendered them vulnerable to their attacks. The citizens of Ponyville even helped them re-collect the objects so they could be used as abnormal ammunition.

Slip, having come with Edge’s squadron, tried to destroy the catapult several times, but each of his attempts were foiled by either the Mirage pegasi or the Cutie Mark Crusaders launching food at him. Frustrated beyond belief and having suffered heavy damage (plus, having an orange stuck in his beak), the griffon was forced to flee, with several of his companions following suit. Some, however, stayed and were ready to fight to the end. Firefly and her friends fought bravely and eventually, after an hour of long battle, managing to defeat majority of the assailants and suffering only minor bruises, they messaged Gale that the main Ponyville airspace was successfully defended.

Fluttershy also reported that no griffins were sighted on the outskirts, with an exception of Jet. Along with Derpy, she clashed with him and managed to hold the attacker away. This earned both pegasi a praise from their leader, who told them to move toward Sweet Apple Acres to assist Rainbow Dash and Medley. It was then that Fluttershy suddenly stopped in mid-air. Derpy noticed it.

“Hey, Fluttershy. Is something wrong?” she asked.

“I... I think the air is changing. It’s becoming heavy... something bad is going to happen...”

The grey mare had no idea what her friend meant, but then, she suddenly screamed: “Rainbow!” and started flying at high speed. Derpy tried to keep up and learn something more, but Fluttershy simply said they have to get to Applejack’s farm quickly, or a terrible thing will occur.

1232 hrs

Sweet Apple Acres

Rainbow Dash and Medley had managed to drive the griffins away. Thanks to Applejack’s stockpile of frozen apple pies, the two fliers put them to good use by throwing them straight at their foes’ beaks. Despite mild warmth that was usually present at this time of year, the edible weapons were, at least, a good distraction. When a griffon had to avoid being smacked by an incoming pie, he was left wide open for Rainbow or Medley to attack him. Eventually, all of them left the area.

Both pegasi were now helping the Apple family with gathering the pies that hit the ground, when suddenly Rainbow heard a female voice from above:

“Lookin’ good as always, eh, Dash?”

TThe blue pegasus looked up and... At first she thought it was a hallucination or something, but after she approached the figure who spoke to her, she instantly recognized it. It was her ex-friend... a female griffon with attitude matching her own...

“Gilda!? What... what are you doing here?”

“Can’t you tell?” she replied nonchalantly.

“I just wanted to visit an old friend of mine. Look... I’m kinda sorry for what happened back then... y’know. If it’s OK with you, Dash, I want to talk to you about it... alone,” Gilda added, when looking at Medley.

The green pegasus was looking at her as well, trying to figure out what she had in mind. The female griffon didn’t made a friendly impression on her.

Rainbow remembered how Gilda acted when Pinkie Pie threw a party in her honor that turned out to be a giant set of pranks, which the blue pegasus herself had made. Gilda’s outburst and her declaration that ponies are nothing, but “a lamer bunch of dweebs” led to them ending their friendship. It was slightly surprising that Gilda wanted to apologize all of a sudden, but Rainbow believed her words. She asked Medley to wait for her while she’ll go talk to her old friend, but the green pegasus was reluctant to do so.

“Rainbow, I have a bad feeling about this. She doesn’t seem friendly...”

“Y’know, Kid, appearances can be deceiving. Look, it won’t take long, it will be just a short talk between old friends. Nothing bad will happen, really.”

Neither of the ponies noticed Gilda's chuckling. Medley still tried to persuade Rainbow not to go.

“I don’t know... What if it’s a trap set up by the enemy?”

“As far as I know, Gilda is not interested in taking a part in this war. Right, G?” she exclaimed to the female griffon.

“That's right. If I wanted to kill any of you, ponies, I would have joined the Griffin Army as soon as the war begun, don’t you think?” Gilda told Medley with a smug.

The green flier still seemed unconvinced. Rainbow then said:

“Listen. If I don’t come back within ten minutes, you’re free to call the rest of the team and start searching for me. OK?”

“O-OK,” Medley replied.

Rainbow then joined Gilda and the two flew off to the clouds above. The young pegasus was still having many doubts in her mind when her communicator beeped and Firefly asked for a report on the situation. When Medley told her that Rainbow went off to talk with her old griffon friend, the pink pegasus yelled at her with frustration.

“GO AFTER THEM, RIGHT NOW! I can bet my cutie mark this is going to be a set-up! We’ll be there soon! Keep an eye on them from a safe distance and monitor the events for us. Do NOT engage the griffins, under any circumstances. You understand, Kid?”

“Y—Yes, Flash. I—I’m sorry...” Medley spluttered.

“It’s alright, I don’t blame you. I just can’t help to think about this sudden excusing act as anything else than a trap. Watch yourself. Flash out!”

Medley started flying slowly to the location where Rainbow Dash and Gilda flew. She felt bad for not standing up to her friend and being unable to convince her to stay. But she knew that it wasn’t a good time to blame herself.

==========

1304 hrs

Ponyville airspace

Gilda led Rainbow Dash through the sea of clouds until they reached a certain point where the female griffon stopped. The blue flier asked her:

“So, G... What you wanna talk about? It’s not like there’s a war going on or anything like that...” she added sarcastically.

Gilda turned around and her yellow eyes rested on the pegasus. She was still trying to resist the anger within. Her mind was focused on learning of Rainbow’s alignment.

“I’m just curious... are you getting along with other ponies? Especially your wingmares?”

While Rainbow wasn’t expecting that kind of question, she answered positively. The griffon asked further questions about her allies, but it seemed that with every passing minute, Gilda was slowly losing patience. Rainbow had no idea what these questions were supposed to mean. Finally, the female griffon reached out her own communicator and said a single word: “Go”.

WWithin a few seconds, four other griffins suddenly burst out from the clouds, scattering them and surprising Rainbow Dash. Before she could react, each of them grabbed one of her legs and held her tight with their claws. The blue pegasus was completely immobilized!

“Gilda! What the hay is this?!” she exclaimed angrily.

The griffon roared with laughter.

“I can’t believe it... You fell for the oldest trick in the book! Seriously, what’s wrong with you, Dash? I see those ponies had changed you completely. You made a huge mistake by staying with them, and I’m afraid I’m gonna have to punish you for it.”

Her words were filled with malice. Rainbow tried to free herself from the griffins’ grasp, but all attempts failed. She looked at Gilda in disbelief.

“You deceived me!” she screamed.

Gilda laughed again.

“You’ve finally caught on. A little too late, though.”

The griffon slowly flew up to Rainbow and stared into her eyes for a while before she stabbed the pegasus’ flank with a claw without warning. Rainbow groaned in pain when the sharp talons pierced her vest and coat. Gilda looked at her menacingly before punching her in the stomach. Moments later, Gilda started head-butting and pecking Rainbow in the forehead between the punches. While the four griffins that were holding Dash kept laughing, the female attacker continuously attacked Rainbow Dash. At one point, Gilda hit her so hard that Rainbow’s forehead started bleeding.

Medley was close in the vicinity and hid in the clouds, remembering Firefly’s order to stay put and not fight the feathered soldiers. But seeing Rainbow Dash being in immense pain was unbearable to watch for the green pegasus. She quickly reported to Firefly that Gilda is torturing Rainbow and asked them to reach them as fast as possible. The response wasn’t positive; she and the other pegasi had ran into another flight of griffins and were currently busy driving them off. Medley said:

“Then I’ll try to free Rainbow. You girls hurry, please!”

“I specifically ordered you to NOT engage the griffins, Medley!” Firefly reminded her.

“I know that! But I can’t ignore a friend in need! Forgive me, Flash, but I’m afraid I cannot comply to your order!” she sounded a little desperate.

“Kid! Don’t do anything stupid! You don’t stand a chance against them! They will kill you!” Firefly yelled.

“Just wait for us. We’re on our way!”

But Medley was determined to help Rainbow, even if it meant putting her life in danger. She had made up her mind. Firefly kept calling her to stop, but the green pegasus cut the link and flew straight toward the griffins.

Rainbow was panting heavily. Gilda pummeled her relentlessly, leaving bleeding claw marks and a few bruises on the pegasus’ body. When the griffon came closer again and delivered another painful punch in Rainbow’s stomach, the blue flier asked with a broken voice:

“Why...? Why are you doing this?”

Gilda responded by slapping Rainbow’s cheek with her right wing and shouting:

“Why? Need I remind you of the humiliation I’ve experienced from you and your pony dweebs? I thought you would become smarter under my absence, but staying with them apparently brainwashed you. It’s just as Red Cyclone told me...”

Rainbow suddenly lifted her head upon hearing that name. It became clear for her. Red Cyclone somehow convinced Gilda to join them by stating that the ponies made the blue pegasus their slave of a sort. She tried to explain to the griffon that she’d been tricked, but the half lion-eagle didn’t listen and slowly ran her talon across Rainbow’s cheek, causing great pain to her.

“RAINBOW DASH!!!”

Medley suddenly flew from behind, surprising everyone. Striking one of the griffins holding Rainbow with full strength, one of the assailants was sent plummeting down. Before anyone could react, the green pegasus flew to another opponent and swiftly kicked him in the beak, following with a powerful buck in neck. He, too, fell down. Rainbow was free, albeit wounded.

“Run, Rainbow! Before they get you! I’ll try to hold them off!”

“Kid...?” the blue pegasus asked. “I thought I told you to stay and wait... Or did ten minutes passed already?” she chuckled.

“I’m sorry for not listening to you, Rainbow. But I couldn’t ignore the situation any longer. I knew something bad would happen and—”

Before Medley could finish the sentence, she suddenly heard Gilda appearing right behind her and saying: “Gotcha.” The green pegasus squealed in pain. The griffon used the opportunity when Medley was not focused on her surroundings and her wings were now in Gilda’s grasp. She attempted to wiggle herself free and even hit her captor, but Gilda only tightened the grip further, causing excruciating torment to Medley.

"AAHHH! Stop! Stop, it hurts!" she cried.

"It's supposed to hurt. I hate when someone ruins my fun! You'll regret it!" Gilda roared.

"Rainbow! Help!"

Rainbow watched it in horror. Reacting immediately, she tried to attack Gilda in hopes of freeing her friend, but the griffon exclaimed:

“If you come any closer, Dash, I’ll pluck her wings and she’ll never fly again!”

That threat shocked the blue pegasus. “You wouldn’t!”

“Wanna bet?” Gilda asked sadistically.

“Leave her out of this! If you want to exact your revenge, then I’m your opponent! Let Medley go, Gilda! NOW!!!” Rainbow screamed.

The female griffon couldn’t help but laugh, seeing both pegasi utterly at her mercy.

“And to think we used to be friends... You’re an even bigger loser than before. Compared to you, I’m not restricted by any feelings. It’s very practical,” she added with satisfaction.

Rainbow was trying to control her emotions, but it was very difficult. She suddenly started gasping for air, feeling dizzy. Gilda noticed it.

“Seems I’ve hurt you a little too much. But that’s what happens when you’re undecided.”

“...Curse you,” Rainbow muttered.

Gilda started laughing again.

“Why do you blame me? If you were a little smarter, I might have refrained from doing some rough stuff. You have no one to blame but yourself in this situation!”

She said it with a wicked grin on her face, knowing she hit Rainbow straight in her weak spot with full force. The blue pegasus stared at the griffon with a blank expression. Medley tried to free herself once more.

“Lemme go, you... Rainbow, don’t listen to her! She’s just trying to... AAAHHH!”

Gilda increased the strength of the grip on her wings even further, yanking them brutally.

“Did I tell you that you could move or talk? Stay quiet if you know what’s good for you. Unless you want to become a wingless dweeb...”

One her talons pierced Medley’s left wing. The young mare yelped. She wasn’t bluffing. Gilda could really be aiming to rip her wings off! To a pegasus, losing its wings was a fate worse than death. Medley would also no longer be capable of helping Rainbow Dash and the rest of Mirage squadron.

She wasn’t struggling anymore. Poor Medley was terrified beyond belief. Her lips quivered and she sobbed. Gilda leaned closer to her.

“What’s the matter, crybaby? Want me to go on?” she whispered sinisterly.

“No... N-N-No... please... Please, d-don’t hurt me...” Medley begged. “Don’t hurt me...”

“Heh. That’s more like it.”

Knowing she was holding all the cards in this confrontation, Gilda turned to the powerless Rainbow again.

“Look, Dash. I’m very disappointed in you... But perhaps there is a way to fix this.”

The blue flier didn’t knew what she meant, so Gilda explained:

“Take a look around. As much I hate to admit it, ponies and griffins have much more in common than you may think. Both races are fighting for what they believe in. ...Or so they think. Black Star and Red Cyclone hold the Griffin Army in their tow and do whatever they feel with their soldiers.”

“And they’ve dragged you into the war, too?” Rainbow guessed.

“Yes, Dash. But only because I wanted to see you again. I really hoped that we could try to be friends again. I see those ponies have completely brainwashed you, however. It seems that the only way to get you back is to kill them all!”

Rainbow couldn’t believe what she was hearing. No... this wasn’t Gilda, the griffon she you used to know. She changed completely. The blue pegasus knew that she was running low on time and stamina, so asked Gilda how she plans to fix their problem.

“There are two ways you can choose, Dash. One: you can try to stop me, but then, I will kill this pegasus. Or two: you can abandon your squadron and Equestria altogether and join me!”

“Why should I wanna do that?” Rainbow asked.

“Because together, we are better than anyone else. We could start our own campaign, become the greatest and coolest fliers this world has ever known! Think about it, Dash...”

Neither of these choices were beneficial for Rainbow. If she’d choose to abandon Equestria, she would be branded a traitor and most likely banished, never to return. And turning her back on her friends was against her nature as the Element of Loyalty. But she couldn’t bring herself to leaving Medley’s fate in Gilda’s talons. She looked somberly at the green pegasus.

“So, Dash, what’s it gonna be?” the griffon was getting impatient.

“You...!”

Gilda’s face lightened with a smirk, but it vanished seconds later when Rainbow exclaimed:

“I’m sorry... but I can’t abandon Equestria! Or my friends! I will never leave them behind! You’re not giving me a choice at all, G! Medley... I don’t know how, but I WILL save you!”

The green pony welcomed that statement with a big, yet worried smile.

“I knew you would say that, Dash. After all, you are an Element of Loyalty. You always value your friends over everything else.”

“That includes you, Medley!” Rainbow said, with a shaky voice.

“In our team, everypony is equal! Nopony is more or less important! You are my friend and companion! Don’t you EVER forget it!”

Gilda was getting annoyed by her failure to convince Rainbow. She thrust her talons into Medley’s wings, making her scream and writhe in pain.

“Oh... how touching. I would probably be moved to tears... If I wasn’t trying to kill you!”

Rainbow flew directly at Gilda, but before she could hit her, the griffon moved Medley in front of her and tried to use her as a living shield. The blue pegasus looked at Gilda with disgust; using such cowardly tactics was unworthy of a griffon. Suddenly, the feathered tormentor increased altitude while squeezing both of Medley’s wings, yanking and bending them sharply.

"HELP ME!"

To the horror of both her and Rainbow, a sound of snapping bones could be heard in the dead silence. Medley fell silent. Rainbow stopped dead where she was. Gilda laughed loudly. Then, one of the griffins still present in the area notified her about the upcoming enemy reinforcements. She noticed the Mirage squadron was approaching.

“Aw, crud... and I was just starting to have fun. Oh well, we’ll finish this another day, Dash. Here, catch!”

Saying this, she released Medley. The battered pegasus was unable to move her wings, so Rainbow flew forward and caught her. She saw Gilda leaving.

“See you next time! And for your sake, I hope you’ll be smarter than today! Find a reason to fight... or else.”

She left the airspace, laughing maniacally. Rainbow looked at the horizon, grinding her teeth in anger.

“Gilda... You will pay dearly for this treachery”.

==========

1418 hrs

Airspace above Ponyville

Rainbow turned her attention to Medley, cradled in her arms. The green pegasus was sobbing, but this eased Dash’s worries; at least she was alive.

“My wings... I-I I can’t... move them... I-I-I can’t even... f-feel them!” Medley cried.

“Rainbow... sniff... did... did she...?!”

“Calm down. Your wings are still intact,” Rainbow assured her.

They seemed fractured, however. Medley tried to flap them, but it only sent a stream of pain through her body.

“I-I-I... I heard... my bones... were breaking... R-R-Rainbow... I was.... s-so.... scared....!”

Unable to restrain her feelings anymore, Medley bursted into tears. The blue pegasus hugged her gently, but was on the verge of crying herself. Her voice was still shaking.

“Stop blubbering... Everything will be OK...”

The rest of the Mirage squadron approached them. Fluttershy gasped upon seeing Rainbow all scratched and beaten up. She came closer and tried to lick her bleeding wounds.

"Rainbow, who did this to you?" Cloud Kicker asked, visibly shaken.

"My old friend, Gilda," she replied with a monotonous voice. "Never mind me, Medley needs you more, girls."

Lightning Bolt inspected Medley briefly. The pony’s condition was pretty bad.

“Her wings are badly damaged, maybe even broken. We must get her to the infirmary!”

Firefly came closer. Medley looked at her with misty eyes and groaned:

“Flash... I’m sorry... for disobeying you. Sniff... I-I... I just...”

“It’s alright, you don’t have to explain yourself,” the pink mare interrupted.

“I can only praise you in this situation. Thanks to your efforts, Rainbow is still alive. And so are you.”

“But... I've disobeyed your order...”

Medley couldn’t comprehend why the leader was praising her instead of being angry. “You did what was best. If a soldier follows orders blindly, it will slowly lose its free will,” Firefly explained.

“A free will is what defines a sentient being. Without that will, you might just as well be a slave. It’s one of those things you should know. Those without strong wills can be easily turned to evil.”

Cloud Kicker wondered what Firefly meant by that last statement, but Firefly continued.

"Sometimes an order alone isn't enough. You need to follow your mind and heart as well. Just like you did, Medley. You can be proud of yourself."

Medley smiled dimly. Firefly then ordered Cloud Kicker and Lightning Bolt to carry Medley to Canterlot Hospital as quickly as possible. Once they left, the pink pegasus called out to others to return back to the capital.

But Rainbow was just hovering in midair, looking at her hooves. The vision was getting blurry to her...

“This is all my fault...” she muttered to herself.

Firefly and Fluttershy approached her. Rainbow was bleeding from several wounds, had difficulties with maintaining a straight flight and seemed unstable.

“You should visit the hospital too, Rainbow,” Fluttershy suggested.

“It’s just a few scratches. I don’t even feel them. I'm fine,” Dash replied in that strangely monotone voice again.

When the yellow pegasus reiterated her plea, Rainbow yelled:

“I SAID I’M FINE!”

Fluttershy shivered. Firefly questioned Rainbow’s outburst, but the pegasus started blabbering, saying each word louder than the previous one:

“It’s my fault. It all happened because of me. I trusted Gilda. I thought we would be friends again! But she played on my trust! It’s thanks to my naivety that Medley almost died!”

Firefly grabbed Rainbow’s shoulders and looked into her eyes, trying to calm her down.

“Relax, Rainbow! You are both alive! It could’ve been much worse...”

“WORSE?” Rainbow screamed. “NONE of this would have happened if I wasn’t a complete IDIOT! This... I... was... I......!”

Before either of the pegasi could say anything, Rainbow unleashed a very loud, chilling scream.

She couldn’t hold it anymore. She released her entire frustration, anger and contempt for Gilda. Firefly only stared at her, dumbfounded, but Fluttershy was visibly shaken and scared. The yellow pegasus never saw Dash acting like this before.

When Rainbow’s scream died out, a stream of tears flew from her eyes. She couldn’t see anything now and just gazed at the clouds, unable to move anything except for her wings.

“This is all my fault... all my fault...” she stammered, sobbing uncontrollably.

Fluttershy came closer to Rainbow and gave her a hug, trying to settle her emotions. She said:

“Rainbow... let’s go back.”

But then, the blue pegasus started to act dizzy again. She tried to reach her hoof out for help, but suddenly her eyes closed and she fell on Fluttershy’s shoulder. The yellow flier panicked.

“Rainbow?! Rainbow! What’s wrong? Wake up!”

But the blue pegasus didn’t quaver. Fluttershy was fearing the worst.

“No...! No, this can’t be! Rainbow, please wake up! Please, don’t die! Rainbow!!!”

“Calm down, Butterfly,” Firefly got closer.

“Rainbow’s alive, she just collapsed due to blood loss. Let’s get her to the infirmary, stat!”

Fluttershy stopped trembling. Rainbow’s numerous wounds were left mostly untreated. The two fliers took their hurt friend on their backs and flew back to Canterlot to join the others. But even when she was unconscious, tears still dripped from Rainbow’s eyes, along with blood. Her soul was shattered. She experienced betrayal by someone who used to be her friend and tried to kill her new friend. Firefly could tell Rainbow was suffering, even in her sleep and felt sorry for her.

When the other Mirage pegasi saw the blue flier’s state, they felt worried, too. And could only hope that the situation would not be as severe as it seemed.

It wasn’t.

It was much worse.

Chapter 12: Horizon of Despair

Crushed by the betrayal of her old friend,

One of the heroines drowns in sadness.

The friends are there to help, but it’s up to her,

To find the strength and escape this state.

Chapter 12

"Horizon of Despair”

April 13th, 2019

0510 hrs

Canterlot Hospital

The pegasi of Mirage squadron were growing worried. None of them got a blink of sleep the other day. It was pouring outside. The majority of the pegasi have been too occupied with war and the ongoing griffin offensive to focus on the weather, which led to dark clouds gathering over Canterlot.

Lightning Bolt and Derpy kept on walking back and forth, unable to stay in one place. Fluttershy was very anxious. Both Rainbow Dash and Medley suffered terrible injuries in the battle over Ponyville. The nurses were doing their best in order to make sure everything would end well, but nothing was revealed as of yesterday. Cloud Kicker tried to cheer Fluttershy up. Firefly was more angry than sad, cursing her lack of perception.

“I should've known. They were trying to separate and pick us off one by one... Rainbow... How could I've been so stupid?"

Suddenly, the door opened, and Nurse Redheart came out. The five pegasi instantly turned to her and started swarming her with questions regarding their friends. Firefly had to calm them down and let the nurse speak. She saw their uncertainty and worries, but spoke slowly.

“I won’t be lying to you, girls... They are both in pretty bad shape. But don’t worry; their lives are not in danger.”

The ponies sighed in relief.

“Well, that’s some good news,” Firefly remarked.

“However, Medley’s wings are badly injured. Several bones are broken, some even crushed. She won’t be able to fly for at least two months,” Redheart added with a glum voice.

Cloud Kicker was visibly anxious, too. She asked if Medley will ever be able to take flight again and the nurse said that she will. Thanks to a special potion that Zecora, a zebra living in the Everfree Forest and an old friend to Twilight, had supplied the medics with, Medley’s bones will be restored, although Nurse Redheart warned that the process takes a long time and is quite painful. Firefly didn’t know who they meant, so Fluttershy told her, in brief, how they met Zecora. When she heard of the griffin offense, she decided to supply medics with various potions. They would help where conventional methods failed.

When Fluttershy asked about Rainbow Dash, Redheart's face turned sad.

“She suffered numerous wounds... but I’ve soaked the bandages with a salve. They should be healed within a few hours. However... I’m more worried about her mental state...”

“What do you mean, nurse?” Lightning Bolt asked.

“She appears to be absent... and only stares into the ceiling with those empty eyes... not wanting to talk with anypony. I’m getting really worried,” she admitted.

“Poor Rainbow...” Fluttershy said somberly.

“Can we go see her?”

Redheart was hesitating at first, but knew that it would be for the best. She could cure ponies’ physical wounds, but the case of the blue pegasus was different. The medic allowed the five fliers inside and left them with Rainbow Dash while she went to tender other patients.

They started approaching the bed slowly, but stopped before they got closer. All of them saw how badly Rainbow was injured; the bandages were covering most of her body. Her dissonant serenity was what worried the winged ponies the most. Fluttershy walked up to the bed and looked down at her friend. The blue pegasus didn’t seem to have noticed her at first.

“Rainbow... Rainbow Dash... can you hear me?” she whispered gently. “Please... wake up. It’s me... Fluttershy...”

That name finally caught the wounded pony’s attention. She slowly turned her head to the left and saw the yellow pegasus. Rainbow’s face gave out a shadow of a smile.

“Hi... girls,” she spoke with a dejected voice.

The other pegasi approached their friend.

“Are you hurt badly, Rainbow?” Derpy asked.

She didn’t respond, but it was obvious that she was suffering. When Fluttershy asked her how is she feeling, Rainbow’s voice started breaking down:

“Everything hurts me, Fluttershy... My head... back... hooves... stomach... Even my heart and soul. I-I... I feel like a part of me... died inside... never to r-r-return...”

“Get a hold of yourself, Dash!” Firefly exclaimed. “There’s no need to dramatize. You and Medley are both alive!”

“And the nurse said she will be able to fly again... eventually...” Cloud Kicker added without convenience.

The ponies tried to make Rainbow feel better, but she seemed completely ignorant about them, drowning herself in torment.

“You don’t how I feel... None of this would have happened... if I wasn’t an idiot. I’m just... I’m just a pathetic winged equine... always putting others in peril.”

The amount of despair and anguish in Rainbow’s voice was overwhelming. The Mirage fliers tried to think of a solution, but they didn’t know what to do. When Rainbow Dash kept insulting herself, Firefly suddenly burst:

“Stop! I don’t want to hear this! That’s not like you, Rainbow! Snap out of it!”

“Firefly...”

Lightning Bolt was shaken by her attitude. At this moment, she sounded harsh, like Rainbow’s insults were hurting her personally.

Fluttershy came even closer to Rainbow and saw her eyes. She gasped. They indeed seemed blank, as if they lost all of their natural shine. When Cloud Kicker got closer and examined the blue pegasus, she expressed visible concern.

“This is bad... very bad... I’ve seen this before... one of my friends was in a similar state. He got better within a few days, but... this is different."

"What's happening to Rainbow Dash, Cloud Kicker?" Derpy asked, fearing the answer.

The purple pegasus explained that the betrayal at Gilda’s talons which Rainbow Dash experienced could have shaken her very soul. This amount of shock was slowly turning her into a catatonic. The blue mare could be having a mental breakdown. Others looked at Rainbow with worried faces.

“Rainbow is on the verge of giving into utter despair... If this happens... we’ll lose her...!”

“NO!” Fluttershy shrieked. “Rainbow... Rainbow! Please, say something! Anything!”

To make matters worse, Firefly just got a call from Gale. It would seem that the griffin army was preparing a siege on Stalliongrad, a city to the east of Canterlot and the third largest urbanized area in Equestria, often renowned as the land’s granary. The huge stockpiles of food and other various supplies, which included some of the latest research technologies, were of utmost importance. The Mirage squadron was assigned to assist the Wonderbolts and other ponies capable of fighting in defending the city. The battle could have lasted for days, maybe weeks...

Firefly noticed that Rainbow’s bleeding stopped, so her wounds would be cured shortly. She ordered other fliers to assemble and asked Rainbow if she’s coming, too. But what the blue pegasus said was unexpected.

“I can’t go....”

“What was that?” Firefly asked.

She seemed to be losing patience.

“I just... I can’t. I feel so... crushed...”

“But your wounds will heal soon. Rainbow, we need you!” Lightning Bolt said.

It seemed to have fallen on deaf ears; the blue pegasus was still blabbering to herself. Firefly couldn’t hold it anymore and exclaimed:

“I can’t believe this... I never thought I’d see you act so weak... Everypony makes mistakes! Quit blaming yourself! What don’t you understand?!”

“You just don’t get it...” Rainbow mumbled.

“I’ve been tricked like an amateur... I-I have walked straight into a trap...”

“And that’s the only reason?!”

Rainbow didn’t answered. Firefly lost it.

“You know what? TO HAY WITH YOU! If you'll keep telling yourself all that crap, you might just as well stay here for good! We don’t need that kind of a flier in our team!”

“FIREFLY! How could you...” Derpy whispered.

The pink mare insisted that the team should go with her, but the pegasi had no intention of leaving Rainbow’s side, stating she needs them more than ever before. They saw Firefly was about to explode with anger. But, suddenly... her voice became timid and resigned:

“Fine! I’ll be outside... just don’t keep me waiting for long!”

But just as she was about to leave, the doors opened and four other ponies got inside. It was Twilight Sparkle and her friends.

"Is... Rainbow here?" Twilight asked. "We've heard she was severely wounded, so we came to see if she is alright."

"If this will ease your worries, she's alive," said Firefly. "But good luck trying to talk to her. She's nothing more than a wreck of a pegasus now."

"How dare you! Take that back!" Applejack growled.

She was piercing the pink mare with her green eyes.

"You're Applejack, right?" Firefly remembered her. "Look... I'm not in the mood for arguing. Just... let me out of this room. I can't... I don't want to stay here any longer."

She stormed off. Other pegasi, with the exception of Fluttershy, were about to go after her. Lightning Bolt wanted to give her some stern talking to. As Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie and Applejack approached the bed, Rainbow was just staring at the ceiling again, completely absent. It brought up more worries for the ponies.

"Fluttershy, darling, who did this to her?" Rarity asked.

Fluttershy slowly told them about Gilda’s treacherous actions, how Medley tried to save Rainbow and how dearly she paid for that heroic act.

"So it was Gilda who hurt Dashie so much?" Pinkie Pie said angrily. "When I get my hooves on that meanie, I'll..."

"Forget it, Pinkie. I deserved it..." Rainbow said quietly.

Pinkie's face instantly turned sad. Applejack couldn't understand Rainbow's attitude. She was known to be headstrong, but as she was seeing her best friend in a state that made her resemble a fallen statue, she frowned.

“Twilight,” she pleaded, “can’t you do something with your magic?!”

“I’m... I’m sorry, Applejack... but no magic can cure a pony out of despair,” she replied with sorrow.

Applejack couldn’t believe it.

“So yer sayin’... There’s nothing we can do to help Rainbow?! After everything she did for us? No... That ain’t fair...!”

Her pain could have been leaned on. Rarity tried to give her comfort. Much to their dismay, Rainbow kept calling herself “unworthy” and “pathetic.” It was devastating the ponies to the point that even Pinkie Pie felt dejected, and the last bits of smile faded from her face. Ultimately, they knew that helping Stalliongrad in repelling the griffins was top priority... yet they couldn’t bring themselves to abandon Rainbow. In the end, they had no choice and started to leave the room.

Fluttershy stayed a little behind and tried to call out to Rainbow once more. She looked at her.

“You’re still here? Forget about me... go help the others. Medley needs more attention than me... I’m nothing more than a useless—”

“Rainbow! Please, look at me!”

The sudden rise of volume in her voice silenced the blue pegasus and her eyes met with Fluttershy’s. She was getting more desperate.

“Rainbow... please... No... I beg of you! Don’t give up...! You mustn't give up! If... If our friendship has any meaning to you...”

She leaned toward the rainbow-maned flier and kissed her forehead. It hit her; this gesture somehow made her realize something... But Fluttershy was already leaving the room.

“Please... Come back to health... and us. We’ll be waiting for you... I will be waiting.”

"Flu—Fluttershy...!"Dash tried to reached her hoof out to Fluttershy, as if she tried to make her stay, but she closed the door and left. The pain was immeasurable. Rainbow started sobbing and let out a loud scream, banging her legs against the bed in frustration and repeatedly cursing herself...

“I-I-I-I’m so... pathetic...! I’m... a failure.... a coward! A COWARD!”

0724 hrs

Lightning Bolt, Cloud Kicker and Derpy caught up to Firefly. She was standing alone before the large hospital building. The rain was getting more intense. The white pegasus came closer and decided to speak her mind:

“Firefly, we need to talk! How could you be so harsh toward Rainbow Dash? She’s going through personal hell! We should be helping her... but you only keep yelling at her and everypony else instead!”

“YOU'VE GOT IT ALL WRONG!” Firefly yelled in frustration.

The three pegasi noticed the tears streaming down her cheeks and mixing with the raindrops, her entire body soaked wet.

“Thunder... you really think I don’t care about Rainbow...? Or any of you, for that matter? No, you’re wrong... you’re wrong... I just couldn’t listen to her, blaming herself... It was like looking in the mirror...!”

She sat down in a puddle, covering her face with hooves.

"What are you...?" Lightning Bolt started before suddenly realizing what the pink flier meant. “You don’t mean... your parents...?” Derpy guessed.

Firefly bawled, slumping to the ground. It was true. Rainbow’s breakdown reminded her of her own. Cloud Kicker approached the pink mare and looked at her with empathy. She offered a helping hoof and aided Firefly in getting back on her legs.

“It’s OK to cry. You don’t have to act tough all the time. I can tell you feel the same pain as we do...”

“A leader is supposed to be tough!” Firefly exclaimed. “But... I guess I’m not worthy of such title... I don’t know what to do anymore... I feel lost.”

She sounded resigned.

Derpy was trying to convince her to remain committed to the task. Fluttershy just came out of the building. Her mind was focused on Rainbow. She heard her faint scream from behind the door, barely resisting the will to re-enter the room and calm her down. When she saw her friends comforting the blue-maned mare, she immediately knew what happened. Their leader was hiding her feelings the whole time, but couldn’t do it any longer when she saw her trusted wingmare suffering so much. Lightning Bolt expressed her apologies to the pink pegasus.

“Listen, Firefly. You can have regrets if you want... It’s only natural. But know this: before you came, we were all normal pegasi. Thanks to you, we became the pegasi capable of defending Equestria when it found itself in danger. Never forget that. We owe much to you. And we’re not going to fail. Neither you nor anypony else!” she said with a strong tone.

Firefly was truly grateful for all these kind words and wiped the tears off her eyes. None of the fliers forgot about Medley either. They wanted to go and see her, too, but time was running short. Plus, Firefly wasn’t feeling positive about going back inside. Twilight’s company was also planning to fly to Stalliongrad, as they were supposed to lead their respective units. The purple unicorn suggested to get to the eastern city using the Twinkling Balloon. The Mirage pegasi were offered to act as their escort. Before everypony took flight, they’ve made a vow.

“You’re right, girls,” Firefly said. “We must not give up. We’ll keep fighting! Let’s fly to Stalliongrad! We’ll be fighting for both Equestria and our friends! And let’s hope that they will come to aid us when they get better.”

“They will,” Fluttershy assured her. “Rainbow is a strong pony. She will make it. And will arrive in Stalliongrad before we’ll know it.”

“I agree,” Twilight added. “Let’s make haste for now. This next battle might have a decisive meaning on this war... We cannot fail!”

“We won’t! I’m gonna fight for Rainbow and Equestria!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Let’s get movin’, everypony!”

==========

1031 hrs

Nurse Redheart slowly opened the door to Rainbow’s room. She saw that the pegasus was calmed down and willing to talk to her. She asked her to get up from the bed so she could remove Rainbow’s bandages. While on it, she told Rainbow about her friends going to Stalliongrad and preparing for the upcoming battle. The nurse wondered why Dash couldn’t come with them. At first, she didn’t speak a word, but as Redheart was about to take the last set of bandages from her back, she whispered:

“I don’t know what’s going on... What's wrong with me...? My body wants to fly with them... but my heart keeps me grounded. And it drives me crazy! What’s happening to me?!”

“I... I really don’t know, Dash... If Zecora was here, she might have known... she has greater spiritual knowledge when it comes to psyche.”

The blue pegasus understood that, but still, the pain in her continued. When she kept on remarking about her weakness, Nurse Redheart interrupted her:

“What your friends were saying was right. You need to stop being so awfully selfish! You only think about your failure... but have you bothered to think what would happen if they were to lose at Stalliongrad? The griffins will have total domination over us. Not even Canterlot will hold against their offence, then... Worse yet... they may not even come back...”

Rainbow was somewhat shocked hearing that. “So, they actually went there...” she thought. Before she could say anything else, a loud shriek echoed through the corridors.

“What was that?” Rainbow asked.

“It’s Medley, the poor thing...” the nurse answered, finally removing the last bandages from Rainbow’s cheeks.

The blue pegasus looked worried.

“Is she... being operated?”

“No... Didn’t you hear what your friends have been telling you?”

Rainbow didn’t respond. She felt even worse now, because she willingly ignored her friends’ advices and pleas for help. Nurse Redheart explained to her about the potion and the process of regenerating wing bones.

Medley’s screams could be heard even though the door were closed.

“She doesn’t deserve this...” Rainbow mumbled. “I should be there instead... This is... It’s ALL MY FAULT!”

The nurse didn’t say anything initially when Dash insisted she was guilty of everything, but then told her to go and talk to the green pegasus. This was the least Rainbow could do to make her feel better. At first, she refused, claiming she would not be able to look at her face... But eventually, Dash was convinced. In her state, even that was uncertain, but she could at least ensure Medley that she was still alive. Nurse Redheart said:

“You should know... The first thing Medley asked about when she woke up was about your condition, Dash. She and the others are visibly worried about you. Go and see Medley. You have my permission. ...You shouldn’t let your friends down,” she added when Rainbow was leaving the room.

“Maybe I failed them already...” the blue pegasus replied somberly.

Regardless of her doubts, she went to Medley’s room. Her screams had died down. As she got inside, Nurse Tenderheart didn’t want to let her in. But Rainbow said that Redheart allowed her to visit the green flier. Due to these circumstances, the medic pony let her in and left the two pegasi alone. Rainbow approached the bed. Medley’s face lit with a smile upon seeing her.

“Rainbow... I’m so happy to see you... You look terrible.”

“You seem pretty banged up yourself, Kid,” Dash replied with a simple grin.

“Ah... it’s alright. I can take the pain... because I know I’ll be flying with you again,” she told Rainbow.

Despite her light-hearted behavior, Medley noticed something was bothering her friend. When she asked about the other members of the squadron, Rainbow told her they flew to Stalliongrad to help reinforce the city during the griffin siege. “Then what are you doing here, Rainbow? You should be there, helping them!” Medley exclaimed.

The blue pegasus knew she would say something like that. She took on a more regretful face and said to her: “Look, Medley... you’re lying here because of me. I could have saved you, but I was unable to. ...Can you ever forgive me?”

“W-What? What are you saying? I don’t understand...” Medley seemed confused.

“I believed Gilda. I was fooled by her words. If I would have been at least a little more far-sighted, maybe none of this would have happened... I’m a disgrace to this team...”

“How can you say that? You’re the best pegasus pony in Equestria. Everypony knows that!”

Medley tried to cheer her up, but Rainbow’s psyche carried on sliding down.

“I could have saved you... But I was tricked so easily... You’ve almost died because of ME! Can’t you see it?”

“But... Rainbow...”

“I gave her a second chance, but she betrayed me..." Rainbow let out a sigh. "How could I have been such a loser... She was right. I don’t deserve to be with you, girls...”

“Rainbow... don’t kick yourself...”

“Maybe I should’ve flew away with her... or just let her kill me. It would have been better that way... Sniff... I’m just a pathetic, unworthy, pitiful, little pony...! I-I can’t take it...! It’s eating me inside!”

“Rainbow! Please, stop...”

Medley’s voice was on the verge of breaking. She couldn’t bear to hear a pegasus she called a hero berating herself like that. But Rainbow unleashed her torment, smacking her face with hooves and kept repeating: “It’s my fault, my fault!”

The green pegasus couldn’t stand it anymore.

“RAINBOW DASH!”

Her shriek caused Rainbow to look at her. Without warning, Medley lifted herself from the bed and grabbed the blue pegasus by its arms. Before she knew what was going on, Rainbow received a punch in the right cheek. She shook her head a few times and noticed tears forming in Medley’s eyes.

“Don’t you... ever... call yourself... unworthy! Aaahhhh!”

She felt a stream of pain surging through her back. She was trying to hold the balance using her wings, but every time she flapped them, it hurt. Medley collapsed back on the bed, panting heavily. Rainbow seemed to have recovered from the shock, as she was rubbing her cheek.

“Listen, Rainbow...” Medley started, gathering her thoughts and explaining her motives behind the crazy charge she made.

“I saved you because, contrary to me, you are needed for others. Unlike you, I’m just an average pegasus... I’m expendable. Ponies like us could easily be considered normal troops, a cannon fodder. But you, Rainbow... You are one of a kind. Besides, you must live! Who else would wield the Element of Loyalty if not you? Have you ever considered how sad your friends would be if you would decide to abandon them? I know you would never do that, though..."

Medley was looking at Rainbow Dash with a sort of Ionging sight.

"I was prepared for the consequences of my actions... but I regret nothing. The fact you still live is enough. So stop blaming yourself! You’ve done absolutely nothing wrong!”

Rainbow suddenly realized something. Medley was telling her about friends, but avoided to call herself one, too. When she asked the green flier why, the answer was quite shocking. Medley always suffered from low self-esteem and considered herself as “unneeded.” The reason she volunteered to join the Mirage squadron was because it was an opportunity for her to break out of her shell and get a chance to meet a pony she always wanted to know. But Dash wasn’t pleased with that explanation.

“Did you already forgot what I told you when I’ve made up my mind? You've had become my friend since the day you joined us. And now you’re telling me you don’t matter, but others do? That’s hypocrisy!”

“I’m just saying what’s on my mind, Rainbow,” Medley whispered.

“Then stop! You are just as important as I am. As are Firefly, Lightning Bolt, Fluttershy, Derpy or Cloud Kicker. We are all equal! Do you understand me?”

At this point, Medley smiled. It would have appeared her reasoning with Dash finally managed to break her out of her exasperated state. Even she noticed that. Her eyes opened up at last. Both of them were having difficulties with themselves. The blue pegasus had finally understood; she was trying to hide her doubts behind a shroud of despair. But it didn’t help and only made things worse. She grinned at Medley and thanked her for the punch, claiming she ‘needed it.’ Despite this small setback, there was still time to fix the mishaps.

“Seems like I’ve been fooling myself all along...” Rainbow said quietly. “Firefly was right; everypony makes mistakes. But... I’m mare enough to face them!”

“Yeah... That’s right, Rainbow. You are the best. So... don’t worry about me. Go and help the others. Once I get better, I’ll join you... and we’ll fly together again. All seven of us.”

Medley’s voice was full of hope.

Finally, Rainbow escaped her troubled thoughts. Now, she was focused on only one thing... flying to Stalliongrad and assisting her friends. The blue pegasus thanked Medley for everything and stroke her head before leaving the room. When the nurse returned and saw Rainbow leaving the building in a hurry, she saw through it and didn’t stop her. The pony of Loyalty had regained her confidence and attitude, leaving behind all personal worries.

Without hesitation, she spread her wings and flew to the east.

==========

1429 hrs

Stalliongrad airspace

After a prolonged flight, the Twinkling Balloon was about to arrive in the airspace of the city of Stalliongrad. The ponies gazed around at the lovely scenery. Despite the fact that winter was supposed to end several weeks ago, the temperatures in Stalliongrad were around zero or just a few degrees below the average scale in Equestria for nine months during the year. The sun was piercing the clouds, and occasional snow petals fell to the ground. The wind was blowing gently. Rarity noticed the buildings of the city and Cloud Kicker’s keen eyes already saw a couple of pegasus ponies approaching them.

It turned into a reunion, as the pegasi were Tornado Swirl and Overdrive, leaders of the Burner and Racer flights that aided Mirage during the destruction of The Burning Talon. They expressed mild concern when they saw Rainbow Dash and Medley were missing, but Firefly quickly explained the entire situation, although she was bypassing some painful details and asked about the griffins’ actions.

“We were conducting some diversionary operations in recent hours,” Tornado reported.

“These guys have already killed several of our troops and wounded a lot, too. Their attacks are getting more and more intense. We have a lot of supplies on our hooves and, if the situation calls for it, we can call a backup or two. But they just keep throwing some heavy stuff at us. It’s a good things you girls are here to help us.”

“We’ll do our best. Just lay it on us,” Cloud Kicker remarked.

Overdrive spoke about the reports claiming that another wave of griffins was on their way toward the city. These were later confirmed by the Wonderbolts, as they personally came to aid the defenders. Many ponies were already involved in fighting in different points of Stalliongrad. The Mirage squadron was to provide support. As soon as the Twinkling Balloon landed in on outpost belonging to unicorns, Twilight and Rarity left the company to rejoin with their own units. It took another flight to earth pony’s base so that Applejack and Pinkie Pie could reach their own troops.

With that done, the pegasi were done with the escort. But there was no time to rest. They instantly took to the skies and braced themselves for the upcoming battle. The Mirage ponies were sent to patrol the western area of the city. There was already another team of fliers at the designated point, codenamed Stingray, so Firefly went ahead and contacted their leader.

“Stingray flight, how are you reading me? This is Flash. What’s your status?”

“I hear you, Flash. We’re good, thank you. The name’s Chrome Plate, callsign Stingray 1. You may call me Chrome for short,” the voice, sounding like an adult stallion responded.

“Copy that, Stingray 1. Got any visuals on the approaching bandits?”

“Not yet, but they might be here any minute. Be advised, they’ve recently started engaging us in a hit-and-run manner,” Chrome Plate warned.

“Does that mean they do a single strike and then retreat?”, Derpy asked.

“Essentially, yes. But sometimes they might—Oh crap, they’re coming!” Chrome suddenly yelled.

“Are you far away, Mirage?”

“Hang on, we’re coming! Flash out!”

Firefly cut the link and increased her flight speed. The other fliers followed her lead. Soon, they noticed the fighting going on. About eight griffins were engaging a group of four pegasus ponies. The instant they joined the fray, the griffins shifted their sights on them and the fight broke out for good. Some members of Echo’s Gult squadron were involved in the attack, even though the leader himself was not present.

However, one that stood out among them was a grey feathered griffon with green eyes that wore a vest with #11. It took a few moments to make Fluttershy recognize him; it was the same one that she couldn’t finish off during the maiden flight over Hoofington. He too, seemed to have remembered her.

“So, you’re still flying, I see. Do me a favor and don’t chicken out this time,” he mocked her with a snark.

“Who are you?” Fluttershy asked.

“Me? I am Night Raven, co-leader of the Northwind squadron. Zeakros sent me to keep an eye on those ragtags who call themselves ‘soldiers’. Let’s finish what we started back then.”

1511 hrs

It was clear he was enraged and wanting revenge for the humiliation he experienced. While Fluttershy saw no reason to actually hurt him, she promised to not avoid the fighting anymore. As the fight continued, the ponies appeared to have an advantage. Their agility allowed them to avoid a majority of the enemy attacks. But one of the members of the Stinger flight was fatally wounded in the right wing and, to the horror of others, another griffon attached himself into the pegasus and ripped the wing off his body. The blood curling scream was the last thing the fliers heard from him as he fell down. Since the ponies were tied by strong bonds, death of any of them only fueled the desire of others to avenge them, while at the same time, filling their hearts with grief. Worse yet, the leader of the griffon flight, calling himself Rod, requested an additional flight to join the fight. Soon, ten more griffins appeared over the city. It was a trap.

“Not good!” Lightning Bolt remarked, avoiding a hit from one of the assailants.

Fluttershy tried to break off from fighting Night Raven and help them in chasing the enemies away, but the feathered soldier had no intentions of letting her go. Being unable to get past him, Fluttershy tried to kick him in the face, but he suddenly extended his wings and immobilized her, resting his claws on her cheeks. She attempted to release herself, to no avail.

“You’re pretty good, despite being a coward. It’s been awhile since I had such a good fight. But I’m just getting warmed up...”

With a wicked grin on his face, the griffon started to slowly scratch Fluttershy’s face. Yelping in pain, she tried to hit him. All attempts failed. Other Mirage fliers saw what was happening, but the griffins kept them busy. When Derpy managed to eliminate one of the bandits and flew to help her friend, another dived down at her suddenly, hitting her in the head. She appeared dazed, but luckily, managed to stabilize the flight. Fluttershy kept on resisting Night Raven, which only led him to enjoy the torture some more.

“It’s a real pity that I have to tarnish such a beautiful pony... but, oh well, war is war. Sacrifices have to be made.”

The yellow pegasus tried to explain to Raven that war is awful and killing more griffins and ponies everyday leads nowhere. It was useless, and everything went off him like water down duck’s back. He kept scratching Fluttershy’s cheeks, causing her to wither around in pain.

Just then, as the situation seemed really bad, with no other support units in sight for the ponies, Lightning’s radar picked up a single contact approaching at high speed. Cloud Kicker tried to identify it, but before Firefly even had a chance to call it, everyone, both ponies and griffins, heard its voice. A sharp, tomboyish, and determined voice. A voice of their most respected companion.

“I’m sorry to keep you waiting, girls. Let’s get the show on the road!”

“Rainbow! Rainbow Dash! She’s back! Alright!”

The cheering of the Mirage ponies boomed around the airspace.

The blue pegasus zoomed right next to them and headed straight for the griffins. Chrome Plate, who happened to be on Dash’s course, quickly dived down, seeing her daring approach. Rainbow instantly flew toward Night Raven and delivered a swift kick to his back. The force of the blow pushed him away from Fluttershy, releasing his grip on her. She was able to flap her wings again.

Rainbow flew upward, and her silhouette appeared on the shining sun. She looked down on the battlefield with a smirk on her face before diving at an immense speed, catching the griffin soldiers off guard and causing them to spread out. Some of them were disturbed by that sudden intrusion. It brought back the memories of the mysterious blue flier who defeated three soldiers all by himself.

Night Raven called for his troops to regroup, while Rainbow got closer to Fluttershy and checked on her. At first, the yellow pegasus seemed to be confused, and she didn’t realized it was really Rainbow, until she heard her voice again.

“You’re getting better, Fluttershy. Are you OK?”

Overjoyed, Fluttershy embraced Rainbow. She noticed the small amounts of blood on her face—a result of Night Raven’s torment. The yellow pegasus said:

“My cheeks hurt a little. But I’m more than glad to see you again, Rainbow.”

“Same here,” Firefly added, as she got closer.

When Derpy and Cloud Kicker asked what made her come back, despite the severe amounts of sorrow she was experiencing, Dash simply said that “somepony” finally slapped her in the face. Such act made her realize how foolishly she was acting. Now Rainbow knew what really mattered for her; her friends were the greatest treasures she could ever hope for, her strength for overcoming problems. The Mirage fliers immediately guessed she was referring to Medley. Dash had no intentions of failing her or her companions again. Firefly squared it with a smirk and a short phrase, as she put her hooves on Rainbow’s arms:

“Welcome back, Rainbow Dash.”

Thanks to Rainbow’s timely appearance, and the combined efforts of Stingray and Mirage flights, five griffins were defeated, and the rest retreated soon aftermath. Night Raven swore that they hadn’t seen the last of him, but the pegasi were unfazed by such threats. Upon returning to a nearby outpost, Fluttershy and other hurt ponies were treated to their wounds. Rainbow rejoiced upon reuniting with her friends. Loneliness was something she hated the most. She assured everypony present that she will keep fighting for Equestria as long as it takes.

Later, when she gazed into the evening sky, she stated that should she run into Gilda again... Only the stars would know the result of this encounter.

Chapter 13: The Battle for Stalliongrad

A long and grueling battle rages on,

Testing physical and mental strength of both sides.

The enemy is getting impatient and prepares an offence.

As long as one believes, there is always a hope for success.

Chapter 13

"The Battle for Stalliongrad”

May 4th, 2019

1947 hrs

Stalliongrad

The sun was slowly setting behind the horizon. Yet the fights continued over the city. The griffin siege lasted for over three weeks now. Both sides experienced victories and defeats, putting everything they had into motion. The valiant efforts of the pegasi, supported by unicorn’s magic and earth ponies’ iron will managed to suppress the enemy’s offensive until now. Whichever side was about to start retreating, it called the reserves to spring into action and aid them. The number of wounded in action was rising steadily, some of them ending with casualties, without seemingly any progress in the battle.

Having just forced Zeakros’ unit away from the Northern Sector of the city, the Mirage squadron regrouped to assess the battle statistics.

“Alright, I think that’s about it for today,” Firefly stated. “Let’s go back to the HQ and report everything to Gale.”

“I second that,” Cloud Kicker added, sighing. “These guys just don’t know when to give up. We take out five of them and ten more show up! How long can this last?”

“We’ll keep them at bay as long as it will be necessary,” the pink mare responded, looking at her wingmares.

“Did anypony got hurt?”

Lightning Bolt reported having suffered a beak wound on the right rear leg, but no other serious injuries happened. Firefly ordered everypony to fly back.

Once in the main headquarters, they saw numerous ponies, busy with their routine: officers explaining tactics to their troops or medics tending to the wounded. Once they got to Gale, he listened to their report and praised them for a job well done. There was something bothering him, however.

“Did you notice?” he asked the pegasi. “Recently, the griffins have been sending considerably less fighters than before. And not just in the Northern Sector. Spitfire’s team recently went on a reconnaissance mission to find any reason behind this sudden change of tactics. Although I can already think of what they are planning...”

“Let me guess,” Rainbow Dash interrupted, “they are preparing a full-scale attack.”

“Well, we certainly can’t overlook that possibility. The fact that their ace teams also started appearing less frequently can be a sign that they are readying for the general offensive.”

Gale also recently told them about the situations of the civilian ponies who lived in Stalliongrad or were transferred here from other cities. Despite the winter period of the city was coming to a close, they were still having problems with harvesting supplies for the EAF forces. The earth pony divisions were suffering the most, as they were usually used as baits for the griffins to draw their attention away from the pegasi fighters. It wasn’t always effective, and many ground troops sustained heavy injuries. A few casualties were also reported.

Furthermore, latest reports were suggesting that the griffin weapon factory in Asgard has started developing bombs for the feathered soldiers. These bombs were going to be light enough for the griffins to carry and powerful enough to deal enormous damage to the city with just one of them.

“Needless to say, this situation is not good for us. We might be able to hold our ground for another week or so, but if we don’t find a way to halt the griffin assaults...”

The gold-eyed pegasus sealed his lips. It was obvious that if Stalliongrad would fall, then Canterlot will be at the enemy’s mercy. All ponies kept that in mind and it fueled their determination to fight. While asking some Royal Guards to come and assist them was certainly a possibility, it would strip the capital of whatever defense it had left. Additionally, more and more soldiers were being reported for suffering from traumatic disorders, remaining in a state of despondency for a few hours. Especially if they witnessed their companions die before their eyes, watching helplessly. All they could do was to remain by their side until they passed...

Every war was a destructive experience and this one was not an exception. “Everypony is fighting valiantly, but at this rate, if we won’t stop the griffins’ attacks, we’ll be in big trouble...” Firefly noted.

“Say, Gale, any clues on the enemy movements yet?”

“Hold on...” he suddenly got a call.

“You sure? ...Alright, come back here fast. I’ll tell the others to assemble!”

Once he cut the link, Gale turned back to the Mirage squadron.

“Spitfire just gave me the info. It seems that griffins are indeed preparing a full-scale attack.”

“Called it...” Rainbow said under her breath.

“I’ll call Tornado Swirl and Overdrive to come here, too. Among them, there will be additional pegasi squadrons which will be prominent in defending Stalliongrad and each of you girls will have to assist them in this task. I'll explain everything in the briefing room. Move!”

Both pegasi responded immediately and came to the briefing room within ten minutes. When Spitfire and her wingmen entered the room at around 2010 hours, she explained the situation, putting a map of Stalliongrad and its surrounding area on the screen:

“Here’s the deal; the scouting we have performed shows that the griffins are amassing their forces outside the city. We expect the main strike force to hit the Central and Northern Sectors. That’s why the fortification of these two will be of utmost importance. We also expect heavy assaults on the Western Sector, but the only units there will probably be interceptors. They might be acting as escort for possible bombers.”

At this point, Firebolt changed the screen and showed some close-ups of the griffins that were standing out of the crowd due to special orange vests. Cloud Kicker and Derpy recognised one of them as Edge.

“He will most likely lead the attack on the Western Sector,” Soarin’ jumped in.

“We have no data about his squadron, but judging from his performance so far, we can safely assume they will be dangerous foes.”

“What about the leaders of the other strike forces?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“We were unable to gather any information about planned attacks on the Southern and Eastern Sectors, but the latter might be under siege as well, so at least four out of five sectors will be under assault,” Firebolt stated.

“Captain, should we go over to the battle plan?”

“Will do,” Spitfire replied.

The screen showed the map of Stalliongrad again, this time divided into five sections, each separated from another by red lines.

“Since defending the Northern and Central Sectors is our priority, Firefly and Rainbow Dash will be assisting other units located there. I heard your friends are wishing to aid us with their own forces. If those statements are to be believed, Twilight Sparkle’s division will be in the Northern Sector, and Pinkie Pie’s unit will be stationed in the Southern Sector, acting as a sort of insurance. Applejack’s battalion still needs to decide whether they will choose the Western or Eastern Sector and once they do, Rarity’s group will be located to the last sector.”

Hearing that Twilight and the others will be supporting them rose up Fluttershy’s morale a little. She asked about the squadrons that are going to participate in the mission as well.

“Each sector will have two additional squadrons to secure the skies,” Soarin’ took point.

“The Central Sector was given to Burner and Racer.”

He pointed to Tornado Swirl and Overdrive, listening carefully in the corner of the room.

”The Eastern Sector will have Stingray and Phoenix squadrons, while the Western Sector was given to Dragon and Clover. Finally, the Northern Sector will have Sweeper and Lancer flights.”

He also added that each Wonderbolt will provide additional assistance; Spitfire will be in the Central Sector, Firebolt in the Eastern one and Soarin’ will watch over the Western Sector.

“Your task, Mirage,” Gale spoke to Firefly’s team once more, “is to provide air support for both the pegasi squadrons and the ground forces that will be stationed there. Cooperation and synergy will be vital for this operation, so I suggest sending one member of the squadron to each sector. I’ll leave the decision on how to split your team to your leader.”

When Derpy asked about the Southern Sector being left without any air support, Firebolt replied that additional ground battalion will be aiding Pinkie’s unit and a four-pegasi squadron “Hornet” is stationed nearby, ready to take off if an emergency ensues. With these details in mind, Firefly began assigning her wingmares to other sectors. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker, being inseparable since the mission involving the destruction of Burning Talon, were given the Eastern Sector to patrol while Fluttershy and Derpy’s job was to help in defending the Northern Sector.

At this point, an uneasy silence occurred. Because Medley was still recovering from her injury in Canterlot Hospital, she couldn’t be transferred to Stalliongrad to help her friends. They knew that this fact was a sort of hindrance. Suddenly, Fluttershy spoke:

“Um... can I ask a question? Why aren’t other races living in Equestria trying to help us?”

A question that has been bothering a lot of ponies in the recent days had finally came out. Surely, they must have been aware of the griffins’ motives. The fact none of them reacted to their actions was questionable. Gale explained that there are several reasons behind it. One of them was the fact that other races were not directly threatened by the invaders, and they seemed to be focused solely on the ponies. Fluttershy argued about it, pointing out the griffins were holding little respect for the animals of the land. Another reason brought up by the Wonderbolts was due to them being technologically and militarily inferior to the assailants. Finally, Firebolt added the factor of fear: a majority of Equestria’s inhabitants were simply terrified of the griffins and their growing brutality.

Knowing those facts, it was obvious they were reluctant to help, feeling it would only make things worse. Both Tornado Swirl and Overdrive remained confident.

“No need to worry,” the blue-maned stallion spoke.

“The griffins may be strong, but we still have the advantage in speed and dexterity. If we will work together, we should be able to win. But, there’s one more thing...”

“Yeah, we were going to tell you after the battle, but this might be important...” Overdrive added ominously.

“We’ve received unconfirmed information about a pair of two male pegasi ponies being spotted on the eastern border of Equestria... Whether they are are allies or enemies is yet to be confirmed...”

“But one thing's for certain,” Tornado added. “These guys aren’t your ordinary fliers. We couldn’t reach them to identify themselves, they flew away so fast...”

This information was quite shocking to Rainbow and her friends, especially since they still remembered their encounter with Mobius on the Gildsedale Plains. Could it be possible that these two could be some other aces, who remain in the shadows, until something big happens...? But there was no time for such pondering. Gale ended the briefing and informed that the operation will be called “Wintry Sunrise”. Cloud Kicker liked it, stating it sounds better than “Fire Extinguisher”, causing other ponies in the room to chuckle in amusement. Moments later, everypony left the room and headed for their resting quarters.

==========

May 5th, 2019

0458 hrs

Stalliongrad HQ

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy couldn't sleep anymore. A lot of things were going on in their minds, but they didn’t felt like telling anypony about them. Both pegasi decided to sneak out of their beds and go outside. It was still dark, but the sky was slowly turning into brighter blue. Fluttershy stared at the slowly moving clouds in amazement, still not used to such sights, as all pegasi who were combat ready had been directed to assist on the fronts. She saw Rainbow wasn’t willing to speak and just looked into the distance. The yellow pegasus decided to break the silence.

“Um... Rainbow... is there something you’d like to talk about?”

“Nah... not really. I'm fine. I just keep thinking about what Gilda told me back then...” Dash confessed.

When Fluttershy asked for details, she continued:

“She mentioned that this entire conflict is orchestrated. And these two griffins who fought the Wonderbolts, Black Star and Red Cyclone, are behind this. They convinced Gilda to join them...”

She suspended her voice, still feeling sore about the betrayal. Fluttershy took point.

“And you... believe her? After all those bad things you’ve gone through?”

“No... I don’t really trust her words... but it’s just too weird,” Rainbow said.

“I always thought of griffins as great warriors, but their tactics through the whole war don’t make any sense. It’s like... It’s like they’re trying to conquer every single major city in Equestria and make us into their slaves... or maybe even worse.”

“That’s... no... that’s horrible,” Fluttershy whispered, visibly scared.

Suddenly, they heard hoofsteps behind them. To their surprise, but also relief, it was their friends, who volunteered to support them in the upcoming battle. They waited for a chance to see Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy again. All four ponies, but especially Pinkie Pie, were overjoyed to find Dash coming back to normal after the crushing moments in Canterlot Hospital. They were willing to talk, but Dash still felt somber. She spoke moments later:

“Girls... while you’re all here... I wanted to apologize.”

“What for?” Rarity asked in surprise.

“For... back then... you know... in the hospital...”

These memories were still making Rainbow’s stomach turn. But her friends were not blaming her.

“Considering what you’ve went through... your reaction was completely justified,” said Twilight. “Especially since your Element is Loyalty. Betrayal hurts you the most.”

“She’s right... especially being betrayed by someone you used to call a friend... it must have hurt a lot...” Rarity added.

“But Ah’ll tell ya somethin’, Rainbow,” Applejack said gently. “If it weren’t fer the fact we had to come here, we would’ve stayed bah your side until you’ve fully recovered.”

Rainbow was more than surprised to hear those words. So they would sacrifice the very principles they were fighting for just to be by her side when she was hurt?

“You... you mean it, AJ?”

“‘Course I do, sugarcube. And since you helped us some time ago, it’s our turn to help you. We’ll give ya and your team the best support you could ask for.”

“No matter how far away you would be or how bad things may turn out to be, Rainbow, we’ll always be there for you,” Twilight added with a soft voice.

“Yeah! That’s what friends are for, right?” Pinkie exclaimed.

Much to Rainbow’s genuine happiness, it’s been proved that the ponies who were standing beside her were nothing short of true companions. All six mares hugged tightly and used the small respite they had to reminisce about their previous adventures. Rarity remembered about her little sister, Sweetie Belle, being in Ponyville at the time the griffins made an attack and seemed worried. But Rainbow and Fluttershy calmed her down:

“She and Scootaloo were a big help for us,” the yellow pegasus said. “They brought a homemade catapult and used it to fire food at the griffins. It was... a little funny.”

“A little? Try superbly hilarious!” said Rainbow. “I think I remember one of them was leaving the airspace with a pineapple in his beak! Priceless!” she started laughing.

“Actually, it was an orange.”

Afamiliar voice sounded from behind. It was Firefly with the other fliers from the squadron.

“You guys are early birds. We should be going soon.”

Pinkie proposed for the pink mare to join them in having fun, but she declined.

“I shouldn’t be interrupting. Don’t mind us.”

“But...” Twilight started, “you are Rainbow’s friend just as much as we are. You all have the right to celebrate the brief respites together with us.”

“You know what they say; the more the merrier!” Pinkie added cheerfully.

Eventually, Firefly figured that it would be a good moment to learn something more about Dash’s friends. However, thirty minutes later, the scheduled time to begin the operation was about to come. Twilight’s group split to make their way toward designated sectors and the same thing was done by Mirage.

Upon arriving at their positions, which took them awhile, they got briefly acquainted with the fellow squadrons who would aid their defense. Each of the pegasi was more than willing to fight, though their skills and talents varied between the teams. The strongest ones: Burner, Racer, Sweeper and Lancer were sent to the Central and Northern Sectors respectively. Twilight’s unit was awaiting the enemy already. The Phoenix and Clover squadrons were stationed in the Western Sector where Applejack’s battalion just arrived. The Stingray and Dragon flights were to cover the Eastern Sector, along with Rarity’s team. Spitfire was waiting for Rainbow and Firefly in the Central Sector. Her wingmates were already in their respective locations, waiting...

Spitfire looked at the sky. Clouds begun to form around, but the sun beams were piercing them. If it would prove to be necessary, the fliers could use these as a means of offence. A new day has begun in Equestria - probably the most important day of this war.

“The sun is rising... I guess it’s time,” the fiery-maned pegasus said.

Firefly turned her communicator on. Others did the same. Gale’s voice sounded in them.

“All allied forces in Stalliongrad area, be advised. We have a large amount of bandits approaching from the north. It’s most likely the strike team. Fight them off until the bomber units with their escort will appear. The pegasi from the Mirage squadron will have to take them down as quickly as possible. The other squadrons should help them in eliminating the escort. I say again, should you encounter any griffins carrying bombs, they become your priority. Ground units are to provide additional support if needed. This might be the most crucial battle in the whole war, so the city must be defended at all costs. All allied air forces, report in!”

The squad leaders proceeded with announcing their positions through the radio.

“Sweeper flight on standby!”

“Lancer flight on standby!”

“Dragon flight on standby!”

“Clover flight on standby!”

“Phoenix flight on standby!”

“Stingray flight on standby!”

“Racer flight on standby!”

“Burner flight on standby!”

“Wonderbolts on standby!”

“Mirage flight on standby!” “Preparations are complete, ready for battle. Good luck to all of you... Do your best. Commencing operation “Wintry Sunrise”... now!” Gale ordered.

“All right, then, Mirage flight!” Firefly spoke to her companions. “You heard the man! Look alive and be in touch! Don’t let a single bomber through! We’ve got a city to protect here, girls!”

“Roger that! Understood! Here we go!”

All pegasi readied themselves for the upcoming battle.

The ground forces were also prepared to assist if it would prove necessary. Within a few minutes, the first few griffins entered the Stalliongrad airspace. Scythe was leading the attack on the Eastern Sector, Edge was among the fighters in the Western one and Jet’s squadron was sighted in the Northern Sector. Zeakros’ Northwind squadron was heading for the Central Sector. Many other soldiers were among them, ready for the decisive confrontation...

The stage was set...

==========

0818 hrs

Stalliongrad Central Sector

“So, they are throwing everything they have to stop us...” Zeakros figured out, noticing the pegasi heading out to meet them in battle.

He reached out to his radio and warned everyone.

“It would be a fatal mistake to take them lightly. Engage in formations, no single flier attacks!”

“Time to show these feathered bastards who’s boss! Let’s get’em, boys!” Tornado Swirl’s voice roared. Having reinforced their team with a new recruit after the previous one was killed during the attack on The Burning Talon, Tornado instantly targeted Zeakros and went off to clash with him. Overdrive’s flight was supporting the Burner team, using typical hit-and-run tactics. The griffins had a hard time turning around when the pegasi flew past them and tried to catch up to them, stretching their formations and making them easy to pick off. Zeakros’ team wasn’t that foolish, however. Night Raven had his sight on Overdrive and managed to separate her from the rest, ensuring a direct one-on-one confrontation.

Rainbow Dash, Firefly and Spitfire watched everything from a distance, waiting for Gale’s call about the bombers. They were ready to help if it would be required, but both friendly squadrons were putting up a good fight. When two of the pegasi in the Racer flight got critically wounded, the situation grew tense. Spitfire decided to engage and aid Tornado Swirl, telling Rainbow and Firefly to fly around and wait for another wave. But neither of them was willing to. They knew that if any griffon carrying a bomb would get here it had to break through Northern Sector first...

0913 hrs

Stalliongrad Northern Sector

Sweeper and Lancer flights headed directly at the upcoming enemies. A fierce aerial skirmish ensued. The pegasi in those squadrons were given stepped-up training since the siege begun and prepared for the worst. Their leaders flew directly into the griffin formations without fear, ordering the wingmates to break to the sides, allowing them to attack the griffins more easily, while they still had to adjust to their movements. Sweeper 1, normally known by the name of Quick Chaser, managed to eliminate two of the boogies with a direct kick to the neck, but got himself wounded by Jet’s ferocious claw swipe. Thankfully, his wingmates saved him from demise and kept the griffins off him, focusing all attention on themselves.

Meanwhile, the leader of the Lancer flight, Thunder Flicker, reported the sighting of an additional flight of bandits, requesting support from the ground forces. Twilight Sparkle and her fellow unicorns in turn asked the Lancers to force griffins to a slightly lower altitude. Once the pegasi did so, Twilight ordered her soldiers to fire offensive spells at the griffins, confusing them and allowing the Flicker’s unit to defeat them. Suddenly, a second flight passed them by, one of the soldiers was wearing a characteristic orange vest and carrying something in his claws... Thunder Flicker quickly reached out to his communicator and informed Gale:

“Come in, HQ! This is Lancer 1! Target has been sighted. A bomber unit, supported by three interceptors! It’s heading for the Central Sector!”

“Acknowledged, Lancer 1. I’ll tell Flash and Rainbow to deal with them! Carry on the fight! What’s your current situation?” Gale asked.

“We’re doing alright, I guess. We’ve lost two fliers, one from each team, but the enemy has only one attacking team left. We should be able to handle things on our own. Don't worry about us.”

“Understood. Gale out!”

The red pegasus was about to switch frequencies, when another call ensued, this time from the Dragon flight, who sighted two bombers in the Eastern Sector. Gale contacted the Mirage fliers soon afterwards.

“HQ to Flash! Come in, Flash!”

“I read you. Go ahead, Gale.”

He told them about the incoming bandits and warned of another two, approaching the Eastern Sector, as reported by Firebolt and the Dragon team. Firefly understood the urgency of the message and called out to her wingmares.

“Mirage flight, be advised! Enemy bombers had been sighted. Adjust your radars and don’t let them slip by! You’re cleared to engage hot!”

0957 hrs

Stalliongrad Eastern Sector

“This is Thunder, roger that! We see the bombers!” Lightning Bolt reported. “Moving to intercept! Sunny’s with me!”

The two pegasi turned left and started heading to stop the griffins from bombing the city. Two other fliers from friendly squadrons were coming as well.

“This is Stingray 2, fighter unit. I’ll provide support.” The pegasus’ voice was belonging to a young adult mare named Sky Twirl.

“This is Dragon 3, interceptor unit. Providing air support,” another voice, whose owner was a youthful male pegasus called Rainfall, reported.

Once the enemy signatures were confirmed on their radars, they increased speed and moved ahead to take care of the escort, while Lightning and Cloud Kicker flew directly toward the bombers. After a quick confrontation, the bombs were knocked away and exploded in the air, making them useless. Angered, the bomber griffins tried to fight back, but due to their slow and predictable pattern. they were easily defeated. Cloud Kicker reported that the two bombers were stopped, which Gale acknowledged and advised them to keep an eye out for other possible bombing attempts.

Firebolt, while she was fighting against a griffon on her own, wondered about the whole point behind the war, seeing so many energetic pegasi, only slightly older than her, engage the ongoing attack waves...

1019 hrs

Stalliongrad Western Sector

Both the Phoenix and Clover flights were doing quite well against the enemy, even though neither the leader of the second squadron nor her wingmates were actually truly prepared for the battle. Phoenix squadron tried to cover them when they were being assaulted, but two pegasi fell from the skies with critical wounds. Fluttershy and Derpy watched it helplessly, being told to wait for possible bomber attacks. Soarin’ decided to assist the Clover flight too, since majority of the team was soon wiped out by the relentless attacks and only Blueberry, its leader, was left alive. Applejack was overseeing her own battalion, ready to assist with distraction.

It didn’t take a few minutes after Lightning Bolt reported the bombers in Eastern Sector were disposed of when Fluttershy received a similar warning from Phoenix 1, who was known as Sunburst. He sent his two wingmates, Phoenix 2 and 4 to help the Mirage fliers. Derpy managed to defeat the griffon who held a bomb. It was especially showy, as he decided to drop the bomb the instant he noticed the grey mare coming at him. Before he could escape, Derpy engaged him. Fluttershy and Phoenix 4 managed to hold on to the bomb and tossed it toward Phoenix 2 who, in turn, threw the bomb to Sunburst. With a swift and precise kick, he sent it back to its owner. Derpy struck the bomber griffon down and he got caught in the explosion before even hitting the ground.

At the current moment, no other reports of bombing units came out, but another flights of griffins was approaching...

==========

1244 hrs

Stalliongrad Eastern Sector

The cooperation between the ground forces led by Rarity and the combined efforts of the pegasi fliers prevented the griffins from going any further toward the city and forced them to try and worn the defenders down with constant assaults. The dexterity of the pegasi allowed them to perform quick and dazzling maneuvers, though their opponents were also capable of outmaneuvering them. Scythe’s unit moved closer to the combat zone, and he noticed Lightning Bolt... having remembered her and her friend as those who were responsible for the death of Greyback and Razor.

Once he broke out of formation, ordering his fellow soldiers to engage the ponies as they see fit, he was solely focused on the two mares. The grim griffon also held onto his radio and contacted one of the supporting units located at the edge of the Eastern Sector who were just approaching, telling him to be on standby. Cloud Kicker and Lightning Bolt saw Scythe’s anger on his face when he appeared before them.

“We finally meet... Today, I will avenge my wingmen... or die trying.”

“Scythe...” Lightning tried to talk him out of it. “Their deaths were their own doing. Why can’t you understand it?”

“What I understand is that you two were there when they died! I only wonder... where is that cowardly yellow pegasus...? I’m guessing she’s elsewhere... ” he said in disappointment before adding a cruel remark,

“...Probably hiding under a couch in her cottage, sniveling... Heh...”

Cloud Kicker couldn’t bear it any longer and rushed toward Scythe, but the griffon dodged her attack with ease. Lightning soon followed up, however, directing a charge attack on his back. He avoided it, but barely. Scythe was in a disadvantage, but a sinister smile formed on his face, as if he had something planned... When the two Mirage ponies told both the ground forces and the supporting squadrons to focus on other enemies and warn them should more bombers had arrived, they went on dueling with the grief-stricken griffon. But this grief made him a strong and difficult opponent. If it weren’t for the fact that Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker were continuously assisting each other whenever one was in danger, the fight would have been really hard. Even then, he proved to be a dangerous foe.

Scythe eventually started to realize he couldn’t take on both pegasi at the same time, so he resorted to his second plan...

He suddenly turned his radio on and said: “Commence attack”. When Lightning Bolt asked him what he just did, he laughed:

“You fell for it! I have just ordered the bomber to begin the assault. Once he gets close enough, he’ll drop the bomb and then...!”

“Oh, horse apples!” Lightning cursed. “Come on, Cloud, we have to stop him!”

Both pegasi turned sharply and picked up the speed, racing against time and hearing Scythe’s gloating behind.

“It’s no use! Try as you might, you won’t reach him in time! Besides, you’ll never get to him alive! Ha ha ha... HA HA HA!”

“Lightning... can we make it?” Cloud expressed her worries.

The bomber was only five miles away from the populated area and the distance was decreasing with every second. The escort was also out there to stop them...

“We have to!” Lightning Bolt exclaimed. “If we don’t...!”

The two pegasi were flapping their wings as fast as they could and when they heard Gale’s voice, indicating he also noticed the bombing griffon. He kept on reporting on how it was getting closer. It didn’t made the situation any better. They couldn’t count on anypony else to help them; other Mirage fliers were fighting in their own areas, and Firebolt was engaging one of Scythe’s comrades and the supporting squadrons had their hooves full, too. Cloud Kicker’s fatigue was growing and she begun to slowly lose speed.

Just then, two griffins suddenly zoomed past Lightning, knocking Cloud away from the course. Her scream caused the white pegasus to make a screeching halt as she turned around in horror.

“CLOUD KICKER!!!”

She saw the violet pegasus being attacked by the two assailants. Cloud Kicker tried to fight, but was completely overpowered. Lightning couldn’t bring herself to leave her behind. But before she could fly to help her, Gale’s voice sounded in her communicator:

“Thunder, you must focus on the target. The bomber griffon is only three miles from the populated area! You’ve got to stop him!”

“I won’t abandon Cloud Kicker!” Lightning yelled.

She then heard her friend speaking, despite the fact she was constantly attacked:

“Lightning... don’t worry about... ugh... me... just take him down... Ah! GO!”

The blue-eyed mare was moving her face from left to right, trying to figure out what to do...

When Gale said that the bomber is two miles away from his target, she started flying toward him, seeing the griffins mercilessly beat up Cloud Kicker, with the other one choking her. With crushing expression, Lightning Bolt carried on the flight, using whatever strength she had left to speed up and flap her wings at her very limit... But the bomber was still too far away for her to try and intercept him. Gale’s voice sounded again, saying he was on the final approach and about to attack. In a gesture of desperation, Lightning reached her hooves out... yet there was nothing she could do.

Realising the situation was hopeless, the white mare stopped in midair, panting heavily... She failed.

“No.... I... I can’t reach him... He’s too far... Forgive me, Cloud Kicker...”

“Don’t let them get over like that!”

All of a sudden, she heard an unknown male voice, belonging to a young stallion.

“Leave this one to us! Go and help your friend!”

“What...?” Lightning said dumbfounded. “Who... Who is this?”

“We’ll back you up, girls. It’s almost fitting; angels watching over other angels...”

Lightning had no idea what the voice meant by that and again asked who were they and what they were doing. She then heard another voice, much more mature and calm:

“We bring the fires of liberation.”

Two silhouettes, resembling adult pegasi, pierced through the nearby clouds and headed straight at the griffon bomber. He wasn’t expecting to be caught up and tried to drop the bomb as a last resort. One of the fliers engaged him in a fight and defeated him with precisely aimed attacks, finishing the griffon with an overhead kick to the head. The other one caught up with the bomb and grabbed it, dropping the load further away with his partner, into the nearby frozen pond. The bomb exploded far from the populated area, dealing next to no damage.

The griffins who were fighting with Cloud Kicker saw that the plan failed unexpectedly. Lightning Bolt charged at them, infuriated, and performed her signature Shining Spark, knocking both oppressors down and making one of the griffins release his grip on the violet pegasus.

Lightning grabbed Cloud; she fainted momentarily.

“Cloud Kicker... please wake up. Stay with me!” she shouted, shaking her body.

To her relief, she woke up moments later, albeit with a bit of headache.

“Lightning...? The bomber...! What about him?” she asked nervously.

“Defused, so to say. The city is safe,” Lightning Bolt assured her friend, who praised the white mare.

But she stated the bomber was too far for her to stop, making Cloud Kicker look at her in disbelief.

“But... if you didn’t stopped him... then who...?”

Lightning pointed away to the two unknown pegasi, soaring around, fighting other enemies. She appeared kind of shocked, but not as much as Scythe, who screamed in rage and flew toward the Mirage fliers. They berated him for using pitiful tactics and engaged him in combat again. Though Cloud Kicker suffered a minor injury, she was able to stand up to the challenge, maybe due to the fact the two unknown male pegasi took on the different interceptors. Frustrated by the failure and clearly overwhelmed, Scythe decided to pull back. Sighing in relief, Lightning Bolt saw the new pegasi forcing the griffins away. It would appear the Eastern Sector was secured. Lightning and Cloud Kicker flew closer and got a glimpse on how the strangers looked like...

One of them was bearing a green coat and had a dark mane, blowing on the wind. He was looking at the Mirage ponies with his gold eyes and a big grin. They noticed that his cutie mark was a four leaf clover and couldn’t remember any pegasus like that from before... It would indicate these two were not from Equestria.

His comrade had a red mane and a dark gray coat, giving this stallion a rather serious look, possibly due to his eyes, which resembled an evening sky. Both were wearing short white vests with a symbol of a blue bird that looked like an eagle, along with three red stars on its left...

“Wow, you did good,” the green pegasus spoke. “Mind if we give you a helping hoof or two?”

“Hold on!” Lightning Bolt said. “We don’t even know who you guys are. Can’t you see there’s a war going on here, and—”

“And that’s the reason we’re here,” the gray stallion interrupted.

While Cloud Kicker was grateful for their assistance, Lightning Bolt couldn’t shake off a feeling that there was something unusual about these two. She decided to radio in Firefly, who just managed to defeat another griffon, forcing the attackers to regroup and giving those in the Central Sector a little time off. When she heard the news, she used an open channel to speak with the strangers:

“Unidentified fliers, this is Flash, of the Mirage squadron. State your intentions, now!”

“Geez! Is that how you thank somepony for saving your flanks?”

The green stallion tried to sound as if he was insulted, but instead, it seemed he was just playing around. His partner took point with a more serious tone.

“We have neutralized the bomber called by one of enemy captains.”

“It’s true,” Cloud Kicker confirmed. “If it weren’t for them... it would have been pretty bad.”

“If you don’t mind, can we contact your HQ? We’ll be heading there, so we can make proper introductions. I don’t think any other griffon will show up in the Eastern Sector,” the green stallion spoke again.

Unsure if to trust the strangers or not, Firefly patched them to Gale so they could speak. He sounded quite surprised, but seemed to recognize the owners of the voices. The red pegasus allowed the two stallions to come to the Headquarters, though Firefly and Rainbow Dash insisted that they should identify themselves, at the very least. But the green pegasus cut the link and spoke to Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker, before turning to his comrade:

“We’ll talk to you later. Let’s go, Garuda 1!”

The blue-eyed flier responded with a simple nod and the two flew toward Stalliongrad’s Central Sector. Both mares were taken aback, yet Cloud Kicker noticed the gray stallion’s cutie mark, it being a pair of angelic wings. She thought of the strangers as “cool.”

==========

1534 hrs

Stalliongrad Central Sector

The griffins started to lose their advantage from early on. The majority of the strike team had been defeated or forced to flee. Even Zeakros’ team decided to pull back after he received too much damage from Tornado Swirl. Overdrive managed to beat Night Raven, causing the griffon to leave the airspace. Though the female flier was wounded in the forehead and blood was partially limiting her vision, it wasn’t a life-threatening injury. Firefly and Rainbow Dash didn’t had much to do, only occasionally helping the overwhelmed pegasi squadrons. Majority of the half lion-eagle troops have already pulled back. The ponies were assessing damage reports from all sectors.

“Gale, this is Spitfire. The griffins are retreating. Got any more of them coming?”

“Negative, Spitfire. Picture is clear,” Gale responded. “What about the other sectors and casualties?”

“Twilight Sparkle reporting. The enemy is leaving the Northern Sector. Minor damage. We have three unicorns wounded.

“Soarin’ here. Western Sector successfully defended. We lost five pegasi in total, but all attackers have been defeated.”

“This is Firebolt. Eastern Sector is clear out of bandits, damage to the area appears mild. We have two downed fliers, though.”

“Roger that. Scrambling SAR assets,” said Gale. “Pinkie Pie, how’s the Southern Sector?”

“Nothing to worry about. No mean griffins appeared here... Wait!”

It seemed that one soldier managed to sneak past the radars. That was Scythe and he was carrying another bomb with him!

“This... isn’t… over! I will have the last laugh! I’m going to bomb this city even if it means my death! At least I will get to meet Vulture and Greyback!” he exclaimed with growing rage.

“Dashie! Firefly!” Pinkie shrieked. “You've to stop him! He’s gone loco-in-the-coco!”

“No worries, we’ve got this one!” Rainbow replied and took off along with Firefly.

On the way, she grabbed one of the clouds and as soon as they got closer, she jumped on it, causing a thunderbolt to be fired at Scythe. Even though he got hit, he didn’t let the bomb go, but clung to it and started to drop down.

“Oh no... he’s not actually going to...!”

Firefly realized that Scythe was doing a kamikaze attack, intending to blow himself along with the Central Sector!

“Dash! Step on it! We must get him, no matter what!”

Both pegasi increased their speed and were about to attack. Scythe was just laughing maniacally and even used a widespread frequency so all ponies could hear him. Many were terrified by his suicidal attempt. Gale ordered Pinkie’s unit to flee the area while the Hornet squadron was called out to help. But Rainbow Dash said it would be better for them to stay behind, telling the red pegasus to trust in them. Finally, the two fliers reached Scythe and tried to intercept his descent. The griffon had lost it completely, his eyes were reflecting the growing madness and fury.

“You can’t stop me! Behold! This fiery blaze will mark a victory for our glorious army! You petty equines cannot—!”

But before he could finish the sentence, out of nowhere, he was hit in the beak with an uppercut. Rainbow Dash and Firefly stopped briefly, but resumed diving down when Scythe dropped the bomb. They managed to grab it and tried to lift it away. That’s when the Hornet squadron came to assist them. The four-pegasi flight took the load with them and Hornet 3, Storm Shaker, went on defusing it, making sure that even if it would be dropped, the explosion would not occur. Aftermath, the Hornet team took the bomb with them.

Dash and Firefly turned around to witness Scythe fighting with a familiar dark-blue stallion, bearing a silver mane...

“Mobius!” Rainbow exclaimed.

The griffon was no match for him. Seeing his opponent being clearly exhausted, Mobius decided to put him out of his misery. At the moment when it seemed that Scythe was chasing after him, the blue pegasus performed a back roll while halting his flight, making the griffon pass by and becoming completely vulnerable.

He realized his folly, but too late.

“So... this is the end of the Talon squadron...” Scythe thought.

With a single dive kick to the neck, the griffon soldier was defeated...

“Urgh... I …I never imagined you... would be this good!” he mumbled, as he was falling down.

Rainbow Dash reached out of the communicator when the Hornet squadron managed to render the bomb useless.

“Gale, this is Rainbow Dash. The bomber has been stopped.”

“The other enemies are fleeing the airspace, too. Good job, everypony. We have a clean slate, you’re cleared to return,” Gale responded.

“...Understood.”

The battle had ended. Stalliongrad was secure. It didn’t came without losses, however. A total of eight pegasi had been killed during the battle, with one squadron almost completely wiped out. Many other fliers were wounded, and the ground forces sustained a few casualties, too. Still, such display of determination overshadowed the temporal mourning. While the ponies were cheering on their victory, Lightning Bolt gazed in the direction of the Central Sector.

“Scythe... you can rest alongside your comrades, now.”

Firefly and Rainbow were about to return back to the HQ when, all of a sudden, they heard a adult, male voice behind them.

“That was a close call.”

They looked around to find the source of it, noticing Mobius haven’t left, like he did before. He was staring at the two mares with his silver eyes. Both were clearly shocked. Besides him, nopony else was in the vicinity, so that voice must have belonged to him...

Chapter 15: A Tearful Farewell

The skies are turning dark over the capital,

Sadness and mourning fills the hearts of ponies.

When one grieves over the loss of someone dear,

Only a valiant spirit will endure the trial.

Chapter 15

"A Tearful Farewell”

May 7th, 2019

0220 hrs

Canterlot, Royal Castle

“I thought she crashed to death...”

“But she only has a few bruises and scratches...”

“She’s a tough one, alright...”

Rainbow heard these muffled voices. When she tried to move around, she let out a grunt of pain.

“She’s waking up!” a familiar timid voice echoed.

“Rainbow! Are you all right?”The blue pegasus slowly opened her eyes and looked to her right, noticing friends surrounding her bed. Mobius and the other aces were in the corner of the room. Fluttershy sighed in relief.

“Thank goodness, you’re awake! We’ve been so worried...”

“Fluttershy...? Guys?” Rainbow recognized her fellow Mirage fliers and the foreign pegasi.

“You have no idea... how glad I am to see you...! Wait! Where is-- OWW!”

A stream of pain surged through her body when she tried to get up. She fell down back on the pillow almost instantly, grunting and panting. “Don’t force yourself too much yet, Rainbow,” Firefly spoke.

“You’ve went through quite an ordeal. Good thing you’re still in one piece.”

“Oww... my head... What happened? Where is Spitfire!?” “Chill, Rainbow. I’m right here,” Spitfire’s voice sounded from a bed on the other side of the hall.

“I’m fine, but my costume’s all butchered up again. Maybe I should start flying without it...”

She laughed, seeing a slightly surprised look on Rainbow’s face; the blue pegasus never saw the Wonderbolt captain without her costume. Spitfire had a few talon marks on her yellow coat.

“Though Soarin’ already went to ask that fashionista friend of yours... Rarity, was it? She could really make us costumes from some stronger fabric, like the one your vest is made of. It appears to be undamaged.”

Questions were swarming in Rainbow’s mind. Luckily, her friends were there to answer.

“How long was I out...?”

“A few hours...” Medley replied.

“Seven hours and thirty seven minutes, to be more precise. It is currently 2:30 at the morning. You’re inside Canterlot Castle. Applejack dragged you inside by your tail when you crashed to the ground. We’re safe here, thanks to the barrier Princesses Celestia and Luna casted around the castle. They are powering it up with their magic.”

Lightning Bolt's explaination didn't made Rainbow any calmer.

“I... I saw the city on fire. I... couldn’t contact any of you, I—I thought... you were... dead.”

Spitfire assured her they won’t die that easily and reminded her about the electromagnetic pulses the radar analysts were detecting recently. The fiery-maned pegasus said they were responsible for jamming the communication around the city and in Canterlot itself, adding: “Most likely the work of griffins,” When Rainbow Dash asked about Twilight and the rest of her companions, she was assured by Spitfire that they were fine and inside the castle, alongside Soarin’ and Firebolt, seeing if anypony was needing help. Rainbow wasn’t certain what that meant, so Shamrock decided to take point.

“The griffins made a surprise attack... They sure know how to give us additional work... Talisman and I were flying to whoever needed help... and Mobius was aiding us, too... If it weren’t for him, things would have been even worse...”

The blue stallion slightly nodded his head, confirming Shamrock’s words. He went on: many ponies have been injured during the assault and though majority managed to evacuate inside the castle, some were still imprisoned inside their houses, unable to get out due to major havoc on the streets. But a few ponies were also reported to have been killed during the raid...

When asked by Rainbow about other pegasus squadrons, Talisman spoke:

“They were fighting bravely... As far as I know, most of them are fine...”

Suddenly, doors to the room opened up. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive, battered and with visible scars on their flanks, walked in. They were relieved to see Rainbow awake and all Mirage fliers present, saying their teams were sent here to inform them of the situation.

“But... Where are the remaining ponies from your units...?” Rainbow asked.

Both pegasi looked at each other briefly before lowering their sights in sorrow. Talisman and Shamrock immediately understood what happened. Fluttershy gasped.

“No...! Please... don’t tell me they... they are...!”

“Dead,” Tornado sounded blankly.

“All of them?!” Rainbow exclaimed. “I don’t believe it...!”

“We did our best... but the enemy was too powerful. We were outnumbered and outmatched... Only the two of us managed to escape the carnage,” the green stallion sighed. “Everything happened too fast...”

“Sea Spot...!” Overdrive’s voice was choking.

“She... she fought a griffon in my stead... She told me to fly back... saying I had to live to see another day... and when I turned around, I... I heard her screaming. I saw her falling down! She... she sacrificed herself for me... There was nothing...! I couldn’t help her...!”

Sobbing, the lavender mare leaned against Tornado’s flank and cried. He stroked her mane gently, fully sympathizing with his friend.

“Overdrive... I’m saddened by these losses as well... But it’s too early for tears, we must keep going.”

“But... what can we do...? What else can we possibly do, Tornado?” she asked, whining.

“We can’t give up. We have to fight together... For the sake of our friends...”

Overdrive knew that well, but couldn’t hold the sadness inside her. Other ponies felt sorry for them. When Rainbow asked about the rest of the pegasus squadrons, Tornado reported that the Phoenix, Lancer and Sweeper teams were alright, their fliers sustaining only minor injuries. Unfortunately, the Stingray squadron, called back from Hoofington, was intercepted on the way to Canterlot by griffin units and wiped out completely.

Wiped out... Fluttershy had a realization.

“What about Blueberry?”

“Blue... Oh, you mean Clover 1? I do not know,” Tornado admitted.

“Last reports indicate she was fighting north of the castle area... and actually doing a good job. I hope she’s still alive...”

A sound of knocking on the door was heard. They opened, two female pegasi walked in. One of them had a dark green coat, wearing a dark orange mane and sporting cyan eyes. Her vest bared a symbol of a dragon wing. The other pegasus had a bright blue coat and a blonde mane. Tornado Swirl welcomed them warmly.

“Flare Star, Wind Whistler! Good to see you again.”

“Likewise, Tornado, Overdrive. I heard what happened to your teams. My condolences,” her voice sounded firm, but understanding.

Cloud Kicker recognized the other pegasus. Surprised to see her friend as a part of a squadron, a brief reunion ensured. The green mare looked at Cloud and the other six pegasi.

“So, you’re the famous Mirage squadron I kept hearing about? I’m glad to finally meet you in person. You girls fight really well. The name’s Flare Star, callsign Dragon 1. Wind Whistler is my wingmare. We were called back from Trottingham to assist ponies in Canterlot. ”

“What’s the situation outside?” Tornado asked.

“Not too great, but it’s slowly stabilizing. Seems like even those griffin bastards need to rest... We could have been here faster, but we’ve got intercepted on our way by the enemy.”

She also reported, sorrowfully, that Blueberry fell in battle, dying a violent death. Fluttershy was shocked to hear what had become of the pegasus she considered a good friend. She experienced an even greater shock when she learned what happened exactly.

“I was there with my unit. When we reached Canterlot, she was being overwhelmed by four griffins. By the time we got to her, one of them was knocked down. She refused to surrender and told us to go help others, elsewhere... To think she was ready to fight until her last breath..."

Flare Star was speaking of Blueberry with undiluted admiration.

"I saw her condition was really bad... beaten to semi consciousness... Then, one of the attackers separated her from us, while telling his fellows to keep us at bay. Before we got rid of them... We saw her determination in wanting to fight... in the name of her squadron...”

Flare Star’s voice was getting shaky.

“But... once she lost consciousness, that bastard grabbed her wings and.... and... He ripped them off her body.”

“By the stars...” Fluttershy gasped, horrified.

“Why are they being so cruel... There’s no reason for them to be so cruel!” she screamed in a saddened tone.

Rainbow cuddled her.

“We knew there was no way of rescuing her at that point,” Wind Whistler added.

“At the very least, we wanted to avenge her. But that griffon wasn’t done... He allowed Blueberry to hit the ground, and then, he dived after her and smashed her spine... just to make sure she would not get up again...”

The cyan pegasus shivered at mere memory of that scene. Her voice broke down. Flare Star carried on.

“As soon as we defeated the griffins, we descended to pick Blueberry’s body up... and we carried her here, to give our honors. She was fighting to the end...”

“These are sad news...” Sky Eye sighed. “Why it’s always the most valiant ones that are those who die so suddenly during the war...?”

“What about your team? Where’s Dragon 3 and 4?” Tornado Swirl asked.

“Rainfall is fine, he only has a minor injury on the forehead,” Flare Star reported.

“But... We’ve lost Dragon 4.”

“Poor Raindrops...” Wind Whistler said sorrowfully.

This name caused Derpy’s eyes to widen. When she asked the cyan pegasus for details, she told her everything. While coming from Trottingham, Raindrops was beset by three griffins and, before Wind could even try to help her, they assaulted her mercilessly. Even though Raindrops tried to fight, she was overpowered and fell from their vicious attacks.

Derpy looked down on the floor, blubbering:

“No... No, I don’t believe it... Raindrops...!”

Flare Star guessed she was friends with the grey mare. But there was more...

“When we arrived, we saw a griffon soldier beating up an earth pony. She was protecting a unicorn filly... We drove the bastard away and recovered her from the field as well, but... I don’t know if... That mare wants to see a pony named Derpy...”

“I’m Derpy,” the grey pegasus stood up.

“Then perhaps you know her...” Flare Star motioned to Wind Whistler.

She left the room for a moment and returned with another pegasus, bringing a stretcher. On it, a familiar figure was resting... a wounded yellow earth pony, wearing a curly, orange mane...

Derpy gasped and darted toward her.

“CARROT TOP!”

She was lying on her right flank, barely conscious. Medley noticed her entire back was scratched up and bleeding a little. The pegasi laid the stretcher on the ground. Derpy nuzzled her friend.

“Carrot... please... Please, wake up!”

A weak moan of pain sounded from her mouth. She opened her eyes and smiled.

“Oh, Derpy... I’m so glad to see you...”

“What happened...? Who did this to you?”

“One... one of the griffin soldiers... I think... he was... trying to take Dinky away... I’m not sure why... She got separated from the other fillies, so... I went to look for her... Don’t worry... she is fine... and waiting for you... Ugh!”

Feeling immense pain, Carrot writhed slightly. She pointed to the door on the other side of the hall, leading to a different castle area before her hoof flopped on the stretcher. She was breathing heavily. Derpy could barely hold tears back.

“Why... Why is this happening...?”

“Oh... Derpy, I... I feel so tired,” Carrot whispered. “I... I need to rest...”

“Don’t fall asleep! Everything will be alright...! Please, can’t you do something?” Derpy turned to Flare Star. “Are you going to leave her like that?! Help her! She’s suffering!”

“I’m sorry...” the green pegasus shook her head.

“That griffon must have stabbed her in some internal organs... we can’t stop the bleeding. I'm afraid it's a fatal wound... She doesn’t have much time left...”

“NO!” the gray mare shrieked.

“Derpy, please... listen to me,” the yellow pony whispered. “There’s... something I need to tell you.”

Tears were dripping from Derpy’s eyes, other ponies felt commiseration. Carrot touched Derpy’s cheek with her left hoof, wiping away the tear and speaking quietly.

“Now it’s not the time to cry, Derpy. I know... we were arguing sometimes. But... I always liked you. I had a really great time in being your friend... Can you... promise me something?”

“What is it?” Derpy asked, faltered.

“Promise me... that you will live. No matter what... Live... you have to... for Dinky... Don’t get killed. I was wondering... what became of you after... Ponyville was attacked... but, now... I know you will be fine... since you are in such a... wonderful team of ponies... Dinky is waiting for you... You better go and see her...!”

She grunted in pain again.

“Carrot... Please... Please, don’t die... Don’t leave me... Don’t leave me all alone!”

The blonde-maned pegasus gagged on tears. Yet the yellow mare looked into Derpy’s misty eyes and spoke with serenity in her voice:

“You won’t be alone... You will never be alone, Derpy... You have many friends... and Dinky, too... Don’t be sad... I will watch over you... both of you... Just promise me... Promise me... that you will live.”

Derpy was on the verge of breaking down, but promised her friend she will keep on living. That didn’t satisfy her, however. With her eyes barely open, Carrot said: “No.... not like that... Smile, Derpy... I don’t want... to see... to remember your face... being sad... when I will sleep... Please..... smile.”

Cloud Kicker bit her lips. Rainbow stared at the scene in disbelief. The other pegasi weren’t sure what to do. Derpy, despite the desolation in her heart, did what Carrot asked for. She took her hoof and smiled.

“I promise you, Carrot Top. I will survive. I won’t die.”

The earth pony smiled dimly as well.

“That’s much better... Oh... I’m so tired... sleepy... Derpy... It’s been fun... being friends with you...”

Carrot Top let out a sigh of relief. Her hoof slipped out of the grey mare’s hold.

“Carrot?”

“Good night... Derpy.....”

With these words, the earth pony closed her eyes. Her head laid on the ground, though the smile never faded from her face. She was suffering no more.

Everypony present in the chamber lowered their heads in silent grief. Even Mobius had a sad expression on his usually stoic face. Derpy was looking at her friend in despair. She still had faint hope that this is just a bad dream...

“No.... No....!”

Shaking her head back and forth, she cradled Carrot’s lifeless body in her arms. Unable to fight back tears any longer, Derpy let out a mournful wail. Whimpering, she moved her head closer to Carrot’s body and went to pieces. While Flare Star wanted to take the stretcher away, Tornado Swirl stopped her. Derpy could not understand how it all happened... why her entire life changed so suddenly...

Burying her face in Carrot’s flank, she wept loudly.

“Wh.... Why-y-y-y! Wh-y-y! It... It’s n-n-n-ot...! It’s not fair!”

Fluttershy couldn’t resist anymore and cried too, leaning on Medley. The winged ponies looked at their friend, saddened. The war has claimed yet another life... but Carrot Top wasn’t a soldier... just a simple mare with simple dreams...

Firefly walked up to the broken pegasus and tried to talk to her:

“That’s enough crying, Ditzy. Pull yourself together! I know how you feel, but...!”

“NO! You don’t know how I feel! SHUT UP!” Derpy bawled, releasing Carrot’s body.

She turned around and much to everypony’s disbelief, fiercely punched Firefly in the face. The pink mare fell on the floor. Derpy then flew up, about to openly attack her leader!

“My two best friends died... You don’t know... YOU WILL NEVER KNOW HOW THIS FEELS! He will pay...! I WILL KILL THAT BASTARD!” Derpy screamed at the top of her lungs.

But before she dived down, Fluttershy stood between her and Firefly, trembling.

“Derpy.... please... stop. Don’t...” her terrified whisper could be heard in the silence.

“Please... Don’t let the hatred poison your heart...”

The grey mare’s emotions briefly subdued when she heard that sentence. She stopped in mid air, gasping. Firefly got up, rubbing her jaw. When she spoke, her voice was strangely calm.

“You’re right... I don’t know how it feels to lose a friend... Maybe that’s because I didn’t have much friends before... and I‘ve lost my parents instead. Two different kinds of ponies...”

Hearing that, Rainbow tried to protest. The look on her face was that of a clear shock. Derpy started realizing what she just said and did. Looking at her hooves, she slowly landed on the floor and broke down, crying sorely. She looked helpless... The grey mare was in utter despair, sobbing uncontrollably. Her friends came closer and tried to soothe her pain. Firefly told Derpy to stand up and go see her daughter. She didn’t hold a grudge against her actions, even praising her for the punch.

Calming down, Derpy wiped the tears from her face, thanking Firefly and her companions for all the support. Before she went away, she looked at her friend one last time.

“Carrot Top... you were smiling until the end... I... I will never forget you. I will always remember the moments we shared together... Goodbye...”

Derpy kissed her on the forehead, squeezing her eyes.

“I hope you will have beautiful dreams... Rest easy... I will avenge you!”

The pegasi accompanied her with their sights as the broken mare left the room. It was obvious she was badly affected by the passing of her friends. Moments later, Flare Star and Rainfall picked the stretcher up and carried Carrot Top away to the morgue, where the other fallen ponies were being preserved. Wind Whistler decided to stay with Cloud Kicker for a while, having a chance to talk with her.

Fluttershy was wiping tears from her face.

“Poor Derpy... I—I feel so sorry for her...”

“This is just too cruel... First she learned of one of her friend's death... then another one dies in her arms... I can’t even imagine how terribly she feels,” Rainbow Dash stammered.

Shamrock stamped his hoof on the floor in sheer frustration, growling angrily. He looked somberly at his friend and said:

“Talisman... how much more?”

“I know... This is just like Gracemareia all over again... ”

“How many ponies must die in this pointless war!? Tell me!” the green stallion yelled.

Talisman didn’t respond. He was saddened by all these deaths himself, even though he knew next to nothing about Carrot Top or other ponies who fell. It was probably some sort of connection between every living pony; the death of one of them would result in others mourning the fallen, even if they were complete strangers to each other...

Suddenly, a loud sniff was heard. The ponies turned their heads around until they saw Cloud Kicker, trembling and sobbing. Before they could figure out what was wrong with her, she erupted with a loud cry. Covering her face with her right arm, Cloud Kicker turned on the waterworks, unable to damp the emotions inside her anymore. Both Lightning Bolt and Wind Whistler were shocked to see their usually cheerful friend break down like this. It was hard to look at it.

“Cloud Kicker?” Lightning asked anxiously.

The purple pegasus turned to her, embraced her neck and wept, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“I-I-I’m so-o-orryy-y-y... I ca-a-a-an’t hold it in any lon-n-n-nger...”

“Cloud Kicker...” Wind Whistler approached her, agitated. “I don’t remember you crying in a long time...”

The saddened pony started shaking, like she was suffering from convulsions. She leaned her head against Lightning’s. When the white mare asked her what happened, Cloud Kicker’s voice was barely coherent at first. Then, she shouted, while still being interrupted by constant sobbing:

“I-I-I’m scared, Lightning! Terrified! So much death... I feel s-s-so sa-ad... Nopony deserves t-that much suffering... What i-i-i-if... What if you die, too? I... I don’t think m-m-my heart could take i-it...”

“What are you talking about?” Lightning Bolt wondered.

“Lightning... everypony... please, forgive me... sniff... I lied to you.”

None of the Mirage fliers knew what she meant. Cloud Kicker slowly explained that the real reason in joining the squadron for her was to be with Lightning Bolt.

"Lightning... do you... still remember the day we've met?" the purple pegasus asked sheepishly.

"How could I forget?"

The two ponies were tied by great bonds of friendship since they met in Cloudsdale Weather Factory. While Lightning was usually serious and collected, Cloud Kicker was playful and a little hyperactive. Unsurprisingly, they became great friends when they remained after hours in the factory one day.

When Lightning volunteered to follow Firefly’s lead, Cloud simply had to come, fearing they would be separated from each other.

“So she joined us not just to help the team, but she wanted to keep an eye on her friend as well,” Rainbow Dash thought.

Cloud told her that she felt sad whenever Lightning got hurt, but was hiding it under a guise of joy and smiles. Now the mask fell, and she couldn’t stop crying. The white pegasus looked into Cloud Kicker’s eyes, bleary and filled with tears.

“Cloud Kicker, you silly pony!” she said roughly. “Weren’t you the one who told us that it’s okay to cry when you feel sad?”

“Yeah... but—”

Before she could finish the sentence, Lightning Bolt suddenly hugged her tightly, speaking with warmth and sympathy.

“Shh... It’s OK... You can cry, Cloud Kicker. Everypony feels sad... I can barely hold my own tears... And, to tell the truth... I was worried about you, too, at times... like back then in Stalliongrad. ... Since we’re doing sincere confessions, it’s my turn," she said, stroking Cloud’s head.

“I joined the squadron because I wanted to protect Equestria. That is the truth. I’ve put my trust in Firefly, because I saw her as a competent leader. She was strong, determined... and she hasn’t failed us so far. That why I will keep fighting alongside her... until this awful war ends... You’re right in one thing... nopony deserves such suffering. But, Cloud Kicker... look at me.”

The eyes of the two friends met as Lightning Bolt wiped tears off Cloud’s cheeks.

“We had been fighting in this war together... and we’ll remain together. No matter what happens... we will always be best friends. Nothing will ever change that.”

“I know...” Cloud Kicker whispered, touched by her words. She was still sobbing.

“Then... I will keep fighting, too... Oh, Lightning... sniff... what would I... Where would I be without you?!”

“And me? Remember, Cloud Kicker... you are free to cry whenever you feel sad. It’s fine. My flank is always available,” the white pegasus said with a smile.

The two friends embraced each other and Cloud Kicker burst into tears again. Lightning was just patting her on the back.

“That’s right... let it all out... so that you could be the merry pony I always knew, again... I’d prefer to see you cheerful rather than sad... a hundred times.”

“I’m so-o-orry... Please... f-f-forgive me... sniff... I’m so stupid!”

“Aww, of course I forgive you, silly filly... In return, will you forgive me for dragging you into this whole mess?” Lightning Bolt asked tenderly.

“Sniff... Of course I will! At least... we’re in this together... -hic!- Oh, drats!”

Cloud Kicker got the hiccups. Lightning couldn’t help, but chuckle. Cloud felt relieved as she hiccough again before chuckling, too. She turned to the other pegasi and said with a hoarse:

“Sorry, guys... I can’t help it... -hic!- But I won’t lie to you again, I swear... -hic!-”

“Come on...”

Lightning Bolt led Cloud Kicker to the corner of the room, where they sat down and cuddled in peace. Cloud still hiccoughed faintly. Lightning managed to calm her down a little. Their bonding had become stronger. Medley and Wind Whistler were deeply moved by their confessions.

“That was... so beautiful...” the green pegasus wiped her own tears off the eyes.

“Yeah, they even got to me...” Spitfire added.

“Why the most beautiful moments between ponies happen at the saddest of times...?”

“It’s like a trial... To see whether or not we can keep fighting in this war...” Firefly said.

Wind Whistler decided to go after Flare Star, but not before telling Cloud Kicker that she will always have a friend in her... and other ponies.

Shamrock let out a loud sigh and left the room as well, saying he wanted to be alone for a while. When Fluttershy asked what happened to him, Talisman only mentioned that it probably had something to do with his friend’s past. The yellow pegasus decided to go after him.

“He shouldn't be left alone... At times like these... nopony should ever be alone.”

Firefly understood what Fluttershy meant and allowed her to go after him. She was about to leave the room herself. Rainbow asked why.

“I’ll go talk to Derpy... I think she suffered enough... If anything happens, contact me. See you later, girls...”

Without waiting for approval, she followed the grey mare. Rainbow Dash and Medley looked at each other, not sure what their leader was trying to do...

==========

0340 hrs

Canterlot Castle, West Wing

Shamrock was slowly traversing the corridors of the castle, only briefly stopping to look through the window. The fires outside were slowly dimming out. “Those griffins must have used incendiary bombs”, he thought to himself. Hearing faint sounds of hoofsteps behind him, the green stallion turned around and noticed Fluttershy approaching him.

“Oh, it’s you... Is something wrong?”

“Um... no, I’m all right... though I feel like needles are piercing my heart...”, she said.

“Yeah... it’s a sad day... night, actually. I wonder if... no, never mind.”

“What it is? Please, if there is anything that troubles you, don’t keep it to yourself. Maybe if you could tell somepony about it, you would feel better... But, if you don’t want to, I’ll understand.”

Fluttershy was about to leave, but Shamrock kept her in place.

“Wait... Maybe you’re right... I have to stop being so insecure about my past... OK, listen.”

Shamrock told Fluttershy about the times he and Talisman were serving in the Emareian Air Forces. During those days, the green stallion had a younger sister called Morning Glow. As his story went on, his voice was reflecting the mixed emotions in his heart.

“We used to hang out often, whenever Talisman and I were done with training. All three of us got well-acquainted with each other. But our times of joy came to a brutal halt when our neighbouring nation attacked Emareia, using the element of surprise. I told my sister to remain in the capital until we come back. The enemy was numerous and we were all eventually forced to retreat. It started a long campaign, during which we slowly managed to recover our lost lands and push the enemy back to Gracemareia. I was fighting through this whole war just so I could see my sister again... Finally, the day of liberation had come. We fought bravely, defeating all who could threaten our city and helping our allies out if they needed help. Talisman and I even faced off with an enemy ace, who decided to fight us completely alone. Eventually, we prevailed. Immediately after the battle, I rushed to the house where my sister was living... but...”

Shamrock hanged his voice. Fluttershy came closer.

“What happened?”

“The house... the whole area... was destroyed. The enemy made numerous air raids on Gracemareia... Maybe they wanted to take away from us as much as they could... Morning Glow was among the wounded. When I saw her lying on the stretcher... she was smiling... She told me everything will be alright. I believed it... but... fate can be very cruel... The doctors did their best, but she... died in her sleep... peacefully... I can't forget the look on her face...!”

Deeply saddened, the green stallion paused for a moment and looked at the blinking stars before he resumed.

“I learned about it while Talisman and our friends were preparing for a ceremonial flight over Gracemareia, as a celebration. There were fireworks... Everyone was rejoicing... I got into air shortly after Talisman... One of our wingmates named Avalanche said she wanted to come for a party with me after the flight. But I didn't felt like celebrating. The flight was nearing its end... I contacted Talisman...”

“Talisman, think you can go with Avalanche instead of me? Hope you don’t mind... I need to be alone tonight.”

“May I know the reason why?” the gray stallion asked.

“My younger sister is dead. It’s just been confirmed... I saved my country, but I lost my family. What kind of an “ace” can’t even protect his family? Morning Glow... HOW COULD I LET THIS HAPPEN?!”

Shamrock’s voice was filled with grief. Talisman sympathized with his friend; after all, he liked Morning Glow as well. The green stallion calmed down and carried on, glum.

“Once this mission’s over, I’ll quit. It’s just... I... I can’t go on anymore. I have no more reasons to fly...”

“... I understand, Shamrock. No one will blame you for your decision...”

“But it wasn’t over,” Shamrock raised the volume of his voice.

“The enemy still wanted to take revenge on us by bombing Gracemareia. I was outraged... We were called back to fight and somehow managed to defend the city. Then... I had made up my mind... to bring that nightmare to an end. Because... an angel doesn’t turn in his wings until after its last dance.”

Fluttershy wasn’t sure what the black-maned pegasus meant by that last phrase. He explained that it came from a phrase “Go dance with the angels!” which the enemy was supposed to use as a mockery for the Emareian forces, but it ended up as their stock saying. Shamrock was still feeling down, though. Fluttershy tried to cheer him up.

“I understand that you feel sad... but... you can’t blame yourself for something you had no control over. You had no idea they would try and do something like this...”

“Right... But... war is a time when those who fight are capable of the worst possible things,” he replied.

“So when Talisman and I heard about Equestria being attacked, we decided to come and aid you. I thought that, by doing so, I could calm my conscience. But after seeing that pony die... It felt like some kind of cruel reminiscence... And I could have saved her... I wasn’t too far from the area... But the griffins wouldn’t stop attacking the pegasi... I.... had to choose.”

He smashed his hoof against the wall, feeling crushed by the melancholic atmosphere.

“I’m no angel... just a weak pegasus pretending to be one... I failed again.”

“That’s not true!” Fluttershy argued.

“If it weren’t for you, Talisman and Mobius, many other ponies could have been killed. I know that it’s impossible to save everypony during the war... but you haven’t failed."

After a brief, uneasy silence, she spoke with her timid voice again.

"...You see... I have a pet bunny and... he’s called Angel, too. He appears to be grumpy at times, but he never abandons me when I feel sad or alone...”

It seemed as if Fluttershy was trying to change the subject. However, Shamrock understood the context of that message. He turned to the mare and grinned slightly.

“I know what you’re trying to say... Thanks, Fluttershy. I... feel a little better now. You know... Maybe... you are an angel yourself... an angel that became a pony.”

The yellow pegasus blushed slightly, hearing that. When she asked Shamrock to come back to the others, he wasn’t protesting. Before they left, something caught their eye; a lone griffon soldier was flying by. Knowing that he couldn’t break into the castle because of the barrier casted by the princesses, yet uncertain what he was after, they hastily went back the main wing to tell the others about it.

==========

0413 hrs

Canterlot Castle, East Wing

Derpy was searching the east wing for her daughter. On the way, she witnessed many ponies being tendered to their injuries while others tried to comfort those who were crying, as they, too, had apparently lost a friend or someone they knew during the raid. Even when she came across Pinkie Pie, she saw that the pink pony was deeply saddened. Many of the injured or killed ponies were her friends...

Finally, the grey mare heard a loud, squealing voice calling her:

“Mommy! Mommy, over here!”

A little unicorn filly was running toward her. Derpy ran to her as well. At last, mother and daughter were reunited. Derpy found herself crying again, but this time, her tears of sadness were mixed with those of joy.

“Oh, Dinky... I’m so glad... you are safe... I...”

Her voice had broken down because of constant sobbing. Dinky didn’t knew what was tormenting her.

“Mommy... why are you crying? Is something wrong?”

“Dinky... something.... something terrible has happened.”

The little filly was staring at Derpy, visibly scared.

“Where is... Where is auntie Carrot? Is she alright?” Dinky asked.

She remembered that she was being carried to safety by the yellow mare. She also knew that her mother used to hang around with her often, and Carrot has grown to like the little unicorn so much that she was sometimes entrusted by Derpy to look after Dinky when she was delivering mail until late hours. Carrot was always happy to accept such request. It led to Dinky calling her an “auntie.”

Derpy, faced with such a question, tried to explain what has happened to her best friend, but... she couldn’t. She couldn’t tell her daughter that she won’t be seeing her again.

“Dinky... Carrot is... is...”

Derpy paused for a moment, trying to think of something. She sounded like she was choking.

“She... is resting. Carrot went into a big sleep... auntie needs to rest. But... I don’t think she will wake up soon...”

But what Derpy didn’t knew was that her daughter was beginning to understand what really happened. She heard the term “big sleep” from Cheerilee several times, when the curious fillies were asking her why some wounded ponies were not waking up... The Cutie Mark Crusaders later learned from Applejack that “big sleep” was an equivalent of “eternal rest”...

Dinky looked into Derpy’s eyes.

“Mommy... is auntie Carrot... dead?”

Derpy was shocked to hear that... but figured that it was impossible for her to lie to her own daughter... Her eyes were already red, tired... but more bitter tears flashed in them.

“Yes... Y-Yes... I... I-I-I couldn’t do anything... Her state was hopeless... I could only... watch as she... as she was dying... Aaaaahhhh!”

It was too much for her. Derpy hugged Dinky and kept on weeping sorely. The little filly was saddened herself, but tried to comfort the depressed pony.

“Mommy... don’t cry... it wasn’t your fault...”

Later, though prostrated and emotionally exhausted, Derpy briefly dried her eyes and asked Dinky how she was feeling. She replied that she wasn’t afraid and had friends who were helping her this entire time. Dinky also met another young pony who was keeping her company. She hailed: “Don’t be afraid! You can come here!” before a small figure emerged from the corner of the hall.

It was a male earth pony with a white coat and dark, brown mane. His coat had grayish brown spots on his left eye and back. Derpy took a closer look at the short pony.

“I remember you... You are Pipsqueak, are you not?”

“Um... yes, Miss Derpy,” he responded with a placid voice.

“Pip was watching over me while you were away, Mommy,” Dinky said with an upbeat tone. “He’s been so kind and caring...”

“Is that so?”

Derpy looked at Pipsqueak and, though still quite sad, she managed to smile.

“You’re a good little colt, Pip. You have my thanks.”

Pipsqueak smiled as well. But that brief jocund atmosphere withered away when Derpy asked the young pony about his parents. Pipsqueak replied that they were killed during a griffin raid on Trottingham. His voice was a little glum.

“They couldn’t escape in time... I’ve learned about it just recently...”

“Oh, Pip... I’m so sorry...” Derpy was shaken when she heard that.

Dinky was sympathizing with Pipsqueak; while he was making sure she would remain optimistic, he himself appeared to be very sad. The filly suddenly had a thought.

“Mommy... We can’t leave Pip alone like this... Can he stay with us?”

That sudden question surprised both Derpy and Pipsqueak. However, after a brief moment of thinking, the grey mare wasn’t sure what to do otherwise. She hoped to bring a tiny light into Dinky’s life. Approaching the spotted pony, she said, with a gentle voice:

“Pip... I know that I won’t be able to fill in for your family... and I don’t expect you to call me a mother, but... when the war will end... would you like to live with Dinky and me?”

“Gosh...” Pipsqueak stammered. “I... Really? I may?”

Derpy was about to add that it was just a mere suggestion, but the young pony was joyous.

“Yes! I want to!”

He then dammed the initial happiness a little when he said:

“I... I really like Dinky, she... she is so nice to everypony. I wouldn’t want to see her sad.”

“And neither would I. Besides, I think you would be a good brother for Dinky.”

“What?” Dinky exclaimed. “I’m... I’m going to have... a brother?”

“It certainly seems so, dear.”

Derpy made a real smile appear on her face.

The little unicorn squealed in joy as she has embraced the blond-maned mare. Dinky was so touched that she could only say: “You’re the best mommy in the whole world!” and Pipsqueak seemed happy as well.

Then, a sound of a faint sigh was heard.

“Dang it... I’m acting all sappy again.”

“Firefly?” Derpy asked.

Coming from behind the door, the pink flier had quickly wiped a single tear that was in her right eye and tried to keep her composure.

“I’d hate to break up this touching reunion, but there is something I want to talk with you about, Ditzy... I mean, Derpy. One-to-one, if possible.”

“... No, it’s alright. You can talk to me in the kids’ presence. I don’t want to have anymore secrets toward them.”

“OK... Well... See, I think you’ve already went through a lot in this war. I may not know how you feel... or anypony, for that matter. But I know that death leaves a heartache no one can heal—Hey, wait, don’t interrupt!” she said, seeing that Derpy was trying to say something.

“Maybe you should concentrate more on your own life... Just stay here and leave the rest to us.”

Derpy couldn’t believe her ears. Her voice was a little loud.

“Firefly... what are you saying? Are you... Are you removing me from the team?!”

“No,” Firefly said quickly.

“I’m not removing anypony. But I never forced you or any other flier to follow me either. You had served your purpose and did everything you could to help us... but maybe...”

Before Firefly could say anything else, Derpy’s expression became irate. The pink mare wasn’t sure what that meant. She then heard words that she couldn’t ignore.

“Firefly, let’s make something clear. I am NOT leaving this team! And I will not stay behind while you and the other girls will be fighting!”

“You can leave anytime you want... It’s your call,” the blue-maned flier tried again.

“No. I have made up my mind since you and the others helped me rescue Dinky from the griffins. I want to keep helping... so please, Firefly... don’t put me on the side lines.”

Firefly knew that Derpy has suffered greatly... yet she still had the will to keep fighting?

"What is it that drives you?"

“Raindrops died fighting for Equestria... Carrot Top died because she wanted to save Dinky... The least I can do to honor them... and thank them... is to carry on the fight... to end this nightmare. Besides... I promised Carrot. I’ve made a promise that I won’t die... and I will avenge her. Forgive me, Firefly... Flash. But you are stuck with me, whether you like it or not!”

“Are you sure?” Firefly asked. “What about your daughter... and that little guy, too?”

Derpy turned her attention to Dinky, who was clinging to the mare’s left front leg. She was caressing the little filly’s mane.

“Dinky... I’m sorry, but you will have to wait for me a little longer...”

“It’s alright, Mommy. I won’t be alone. I’ll have Pip with me. And other ponies, too.”

“Right... Pip?”

Derpy then motioned for the white-coated pony to come closer.

“Can you please watch over my daughter until I come back?”

“Of course, Miss Derpy... I mean... Mom. I promise I will be a good brother.”

Derpy smiled sincerely, saying: “I know you will” before kissing both little ponies on their cheeks.

Firefly was feeling strange inner peace as she witnessed that moment. She praised Derpy for her determination, saying:

“However you might look for the ponies on the outside... I can tell that inside you have a great and powerful heart. I’m glad to know you’re a part of our team, Derpy.”All of a sudden, Firefly’s communicator started beeping; it was Rainbow Dash, saying that someone “completely unexpected” had just entered the castle. Before the two mares left the room, Dinky turned her sight to Firefly and said timidly:

“Um... Miss Firefly? Can I ask you something?”

Firefly chuckled, having heard another filly calling her “Miss” before replying:

“Go ahead, little one.”

“Please... if it’s possible, make sure everypony will come back safe and sound...”

Firefly lowered her head before Dinky and grinned.

“Don’t worry... as long as our team will be flying in the skies, with your mom by our side, nopony is going to die needlessly. Everything will be all right.”

She then motioned Derpy to follow her. They heard Dinky and Pipsqueak wishing them good luck. A few minutes later, they arrived in the chamber where the other pegasi were located, but came to a halt when they noticed a new guest.

“No way! What are YOU doing here?” Firefly exclaimed.

“Greetings. I’ve come bearing important news."

Chapter 16: Toward Revival

The scheme is uncovered, the truth is revealed.

What madness fell upon the once proud warriors?

With all doubts erased, the goal becomes clear,

All forces gather to defend their land.

Chapter 16

"Toward Revival”

May 7th, 2019

0507 hrs

Canterlot, Royal Castle

It was Edge. “You’ve got some nerve coming here!” Firefly said angrily.

Her wingmares were stunned to see a griffon inside the castle.

“How did he got inside?”

The pink mare directed that question toward Quick Chaser and Thunder Flicker, who were standing by him. Because the whole place was surrounded by Princess Celestia and Princess Luna’s magic barrier, no one should have been able breach it.

“You may not believe it, but the guy surrendered willingly”, said Quick Chaser.

He and Thunder Flicker were outside, patrolling the castle’s vicinity. When Fluttershy and Shamrock got back to the main wing and told everypony about a griffin flying suspiciously around the castle, the two pegasi were sent to investigate. They found Edge. He seemed to have no intention on fighting them, and that was already surprising. But then he asked them to get him inside, saying he had some very important pieces of information for the Royal Sisters. He was unarmed, without any support... They knew he wasn’t posing any danger. Firefly was still angered seeing a griffon simply walking in like that.

“I don’t like whatever that sleaze is up to. It would be best to just take him out.”

“Wait...” Edge pleaded. “Before you kill me... There is something you must know. All of you, ponies, are probably wondering why the griffins are acting so violently... Why this scorching of Equestria was allowed? I can explain everything.”

“What there is to explain?!” Firefly exclaimed. “The situation is obvious to me. You and your kind are nothing more than unsatiated killers! This whole ‘honor‘ thing I kept hearing about is worth dirt! All you guys want to do is to enslave or kill every single pony!”

“Things aren’t always that simple...” Edge argued.

Rainbow Dash was out of her bed already and tried to restrain Firefly's temper. Other ponies were actually curious, why... Why their northern neighbours have turned into vile ruffians?

“I... I think we should listen to him,” Fluttershy spoke. “I... I want to know what happened.”

“Yeah, I wonder...” Lightning Bolt added. “We might just as well let him talk, there’s no harm in that.”

“I agree,” another voice from the corridor has sounded.

It was Twilight Sparkle, with her assistant Spike. Her friends came along as well. Though Firefly tried to oppose the idea, she was in the minority. With no choice, she had to let Edge do the talking, while still feeling a bit sour.

“I have one condition, though,” he said. “I will tell you all I know, but I’ll only speak in the presence of your princesses.”

Firefly was slowly losing it.

“Unless you haven’t noticed, they are busy with the barrier that is supposed to keep scum like you from entering the castle!”

Luckily, Twilight managed to cool things down.

“You can speak to me. I am Twilight Sparkle, student of Princess Celestia. Rest assured, I will relay everything you will tell us to them. Spike?”

“Right on.”

The young dragon was already holding a quill and a parchment, waiting to write down whatever revelation Edge had to tell.

“I guess it’s better than nothing...” he muttered. “Very well, then listen closely, because your time is drawing short. If you ponies want to survive and win this war, you need to grasp the whole situation properly.”

All ponies present in the chamber: the Mirage squadron, the Wonderbolts, the four foreign aces and those who bear the Elements of Harmony were about to learn the reason behind the madness that plunged Equestria into such dark times.

But before Edge even started, Medley asked him how was it possible that, in several missions and battles, they saw griffins other than squadron leaders being in charge of the operation. Edge explained that the commanding structures of The Griffin Kingdom were much more “flexible” than that of Equestria. As long as the griffins had a common goal, they could easily cope with each other. The fact that many soldiers had natural warrior abilities helped as well. The only drawbacks of this tactic were their ill-prepared concepts of leading the others, and it usually forced them to resort into a very loose strategy, with little success rate.

“Although by looking at you, Mirage squadron, I can tell you’re pretty much an independent unit yourself...” Edge remarked.

“OK, but can you tell us what exactly happened?” Rainbow was getting impatient.

“Yes, I’m about to get there... You should know... There has been another coup d'etat in our capital. Our general is dead.”Spitfire and Soarin’ looked at each other. It would seem that loyalty wasn’t a very common sense among the griffins these days. When the fiery-maned pegasus asked Edge who could have been responsible for General Silverbeak’s death, the soldier responded with a truly shocking statement.

“It is rumored... that you were the ones who killed our leader.”

“WHAT?”

“That’s crazy!”

“What the hay?”

The reaction of the ponies was predictable. None of them believed that.

“We haven’t even been to Gryphus since the whole war started!” Firebolt added. “Why would they think we could have killed your general?”

“Hold on, I’m not finished yet.”

Edge waited until every pony calmed down before continuing.

“I know that you didn’t kill him, therefore I believe you’re innocent. But the same cannot be said toward others. Red Cyclone made them think that it was your doing and that’s why he ordered the griffins to ravage Equestria and deal with every single pony that would dare oppose them.”

“But... that doesn’t make any sense!” Rarity shouted.

“What exactly happened in Gryphus? Tell us step by step,” Twilight asked.

Edge paused for a moment, trying to recreate the events that occurred in the Griffin Palace. He told the ponies about Black Star and his suspicions toward his comrade. Acting as a superior figure to Edge, he told him to follow Red Cyclone and see what he planned to do. Upon eavesdropping on his conversation with the General, he learned about the crimson griffon’s plan.

“Our general was planning to go to Canterlot and begin peace talks with your princesses, but Red Cyclone had a different concept. He proposed a complete conquest of Equestria and either turning all ponies into slaves... or smoking corpses. He called this... the ultimate solution.”

Edge winced when he said that.

“But our general would have none of that, he decided to remain committed to his original intent. That was when Red Cyclone revealed his true colors. He killed our leader and took his symbol of power. You should've seen him... that laugh... I’ve left before he noticed me and went to tell everything to Black Star...”

“So... he actually did killed the general... It is just as I feared.”

“You... knew?!” Edge sounded incredulously.

“But, you are his partner, in a sense. You should have been able to prevent him from—”

“I expected he would have done it sooner or later... It seems he is ready to carry out his plans...”

Both of them were on a balcony, listening to Red Cyclone’s speech toward fellow griffins gathered outside the palace. They were expecting General Silverbeak to come and greet them, though. The red-feathered soldier showed them his symbol of power, covered in blood. A loud clamor ensued. Red Cyclone told them what has happened in a fiery manner.“My fellow soldiers, brothers and sisters! Our general has been killed in a most vile assassination attempt by those wretched ponies! Do you see now? They are not harmless, cute fillies we might have thought they were! The second we turn our backs, they strike at us without mercy! But I assure you, this treacherous act will not remain unpunished! I shall carry out the will of our general and lead our country toward certain victory! Join me, and our triumph is assured! Go now, soldiers of The Griffin Kingdom! Stain the land with the blood of our enemies! March forth, toward Canterlot! Burn every village! Spare no one! Purge them from this world! We will give those ponies a taste of true fear!!!”

An uproar of support sounded. Naturally, both Edge and Black Star knew that, in reality, Red Cyclone was the one who killed General Silverbeak to usurp his power. But they couldn’t do anything. Thanks to his charisma, silver tongue and proper organisation, Red Cyclone easily convinced and encouraged the griffins to begin a truly frightening scorching of Equestria. As the feathered soldiers were getting closer to the capital, every major grassland, forest, meadow or even town was ravaged by them, set on fire. Edge was told by Black Star to follow the griffin soldiers and, when given the best possible chance, see Princesses Celestia and Luna to tell them about Red Cyclone’s mad idea.

As Edge was about to finish his explanation, the looks on ponies’ faces were that of disbelief, fear, but also anger.

“That’s sick... That Red Cyclone is a total freak!” Rainbow growled.

“He should go see the doctor or something, this isn’t normal,” Pinkie Pie added.

She tried to sound casual, but, deep inside, she felt deeply shaken.

“Come on, girls! You’re not gonna believe him...! How do we know he’s not making this up?” Firefly asked, losing what little patience she had left.

“I never asked you to believe me,” Edge said. “I only tell you what I saw. You don’t have to listen to me. Whatever you will do is your decision alone.”

His voice sounded a little resigned. It was as if he didn’t want to take a part in this conflict anymore. Edge additionally stated that Red Cyclone had actually been planning this whole coup for a while, according to Black Star. While he tried to reason with Red Cyclone at first, in the end, he decided that it would be best if he’d play along. Needless to say, this information left all ponies a little flabbergasted.

“Well... Edge, what you’re saying is all fine and dandy, and... you decided to just give in to us, risking your life, so we could have heard it all? Interesting...” Spitfire though aloud.

“Highly suspicious, you mean,” Firefly tried to correct her. “Besides, who says it’s true?”

“Ah do,” Applejack spoke. “As yah know, honesty is something I’m good at, and Ah can tell this fella is not lying. He’s speaking directly to us, he’s ain’t rolling his eyes around... Ah just know he’s sayin’ the truth.”

Firefly was still not convinced. She tried to warn Applejack about a possible trap. But the orange pony believed in her reasoning. Applejack blurted that Firefly’s assumptions had a shade of paranoia. Things were uneasy, a confrontation between the two mares was hanging in the air. Twilight tried to calm them down.

“Girls, this argument is pointless!”

“Twilight Sparkle is right,” Firebolt said. “If we want to survive this conflict, we should be fighting our enemies, not each other.”

“But do you know exactly who your enemy is...?” Edge sounded inquiringly.

When the ponies turned their attention back to him, he carried on:

“I’ll have you know... not every griffin wanted to fight you... only some are fighting of their own volition. But others simply saw this as a chance to bring glory to our kingdom. Unbeknownst to us... our principles and mentality degenerated in the past few years. Even though we are still proud warriors, we’ve learned to obey the orders of our superiors... and regardless of who is the one in charge... Truly, a shameful turn of events...”

He briefly hung his voice. Medley knew inside her heart that Edge wasn’t exactly evil. Her instincts and thoughts were correct this whole time. Now, things were slowly starting to become more clear for the ponies. Spike was just about to finish writing down Edge’s revelations.

“Is that everything you had to say?” Twilight asked him.

“Actually... there’s one more thing. Which one of you is Firefly?”

“I am!”

When she stood up, Edge looked accurately at her, then spoke quietly.

“Right... a pink pegasus with a blue mane... Black Star has a little message for you.”

Firefly’s ears perked up upon hearing that. Knowing him, it could have been practically anything. While a little anxious, she told him, with a strong voice, to deliver the message. But she was completely unprepared for what she heard from Edge’s beak.

Just as Edge was about to leave with the strike team to conceal himself until proper time, Black Star halted him for a moment and said the following words:

“Listen... if you happen to run into a blue-maned, pink female pegasus named Firefly... tell her that I’m waiting for her here, in Gryphus. We still have a fight to finish.”

“Huh?” Edge growled. “But I thought you already fought with her... and won.”

“No. That was no true battle,” Black Star explained.

“Our fight is yet to occur. And this time, only one of us may survive. Either I will kill her... and reunite her with her parents... or she will kill me and avenge them. To tell the truth... it matters little. A fight to the death with her. That is all I desire. Only in that can my soul find respite... Also... tell her that... I do not ask her for forgiveness or mercy, but... tell her that... I feel regret for killing her parents. Let her know that. That is all. ...Go, now!”

“I have spoken. That’s all there is,” Edge finished.

An unsettling silence fell for a few moments. Twilight asked Spike if he wrote everything down and he confirmed it. Then, the purple unicorn motioned every pony to come with her to the Princesses’ throne room. Quick Chaser and Thunder Flicker took Edge along with them, while the other ponies were slowly leaving the room. Rainbow Dash noticed Firefly was just sitting on the floor, not willing to go. Rainbow asked the others to go ahead, that she will catch up to them.

Then, she slowly approached the pink mare. Firefly appeared to be devastated... but why?

==========

0555 hrs

Canterlot Castle

“Hey, Firefly... are you OK?”

“Do I look OK to you?” Firefly replied with a picky voice.

Her eyes were staring deeply into Rainbow’s.

“No... Is something wrong? Wanna talk about it?” Rainbow asked.

Firefly shook her head in denial. Rainbow pressed her a little, but she still wasn’t willing to speak.

“Come on, Firefly... you can’t fool me. I can see clearly something’s wrong.”

“I DON’T want to talk about it, Rainbow! And stop acting like you care!”, Firefly exclaimed.

That last sentence hurt Rainbow Dash deeply. She wanted to help Firefly and seemed worried about her state. With an angry face, she turned her sight away from the pink mare. Dash knew there were more important issues before them.

“Fine. Have it your way. I’m just gonna leave you with your... problems.”

She was just about to leave when Firefly suddenly chuckled. Rainbow stopped dead where she was and turned back around. The blue-maned pegasus burst into a loud, hysterical laughter. But soon, Rainbow noticed that this laughter was caustic and shallow... It slowly died down and turned into whines. Still uncertain what was the cause, Dash came closer.

“Firefly...? What’s going on?”

“Ahahahah... Talk about irony... You heard him, didn’t you?” she asked.

“You mean Edge? Yeah, I did. So?”

“Don’t you get it?!” Firefly yelled.

Her voice was getting louder with every word. Rainbow had a bad feeling about it.

“I’ve spent the last six years of my life... trying to take down a guy who ruined my whole life... Who took everything away from me... And now... Now I hear he’s sorry! Heh... NOW he’s sorry! W-WHY WASN'T HE FEELING SORRY WHEN HE KILLED MY PARENTS!!!”

Firefly pounded her hooves on the ground, squeezing her eyes. Tears glazed in them. She grit her teeth and yet let out two loud sobs. Rainbow Dash was shocked to see her in this state. Even Firefly wasn’t immune to everything that was happening around them... She got closer and put her arms on the pink mare’s shoulders, trying to calm her down. But Firefly initially turned her down.

“Save it! What do you know...?! Sniff... That idiot...!”

Rainbow just stared at her, unsure what to do. She couldn’t leave her in this state, that much she knew. The blue pegasus decided a different approach.

“Look... Firefly. I know it’s hard for you, but... Try to get a hold of yourself. Calm down...”

Those words had an effect opposite to the desired one.

“I CAN’T CALM THE BUCK DOWN!"

More tears distilled from Firefly’s cheeks. She looked at Rainbow in despair, blabbering to herself. She felt like her soul had been torn in two, as if she was split between fury and sadness. Firefly broke down completely. She glimpsed at Rainbow with a distraught sight and started weeping.

"Agh... I just can’t... I couldn’t... I’m... I don’t know what to do... I feel so lost... I’m... so confused. Rainbow... I need help!”

Rainbow touched her right cheek. These words made her feel sorry for Firefly. Though she couldn’t grasp how painful it was for her, Dash really did sympathized. The word “help” sounded really desperate. Without saying anything, Rainbow slowly embraced Firefly. This caused her to sob some more, but she returned the hug, leaning her head against Rainbow’s shoulder.

“I know I shouldn’t be going into pieces like that... But it’s stronger than me... I can’t fight it... I just had to cry it out... Listen, Rainbow, I... I never got the chance to apologize to you...”

“What for?” Rainbow asked.

Firefly reminded her about the time when the blue pony was resting in the hospital after the battle over Ponyville. She told her of all the nasty things she threw in the pegasus’ direction, regretting them now.

“I... didn’t mean to hurt you more... But seeing you in that state reminded me of what I’ve experienced... I thought that by yelling at you I could have felt better... But I didn’t! Now it only hurts me more!” the pink mare screamed.

Rainbow patted her on the back.

“It’s fine... I was so grief-stricken that I wasn’t paying attention anyway. It could have been the same as if
I had a major case of deafness.”

She tried to brush her leader’s worries aside, laughing at mishaps that happened in the past. Firefly remained silent for a while. Then, she finally told Dash what troubled her.

“I’m beginning to think that the only reason I’m still here is... to take Black Star down. I still want to... I swore to myself I will do it. But... then what? What will I do after the war? I have nowhere else to go... I’m alone... all alone... like an outsider.”

Now her voice was just a bleak whisper.

“Seriously, stop saying that!” Rainbow interrupted her. “You have us. ...I know that it’s not the same as having a family, but don’t deny the fact we’re your friends!”

“That’s not what I meant...” Firefly continued. “Defeating Black Star is my sole purpose... I don’t have another reason to fight... If I take him down, at least I’ll—”

“Flash!” Rainbow exclaimed, causing Firefly’s eyes to widen.

It was the first time the blue mare used her callsign since the battle at The Burning Talon.

“Come on... you’re being too hard on yourself, Firefly,” Rainbow said tenderly.

Though Firefly felt really bitter about everything that happened, she appreciated Rainbow’s attempts to cheer her up. While the tears were still rolling somewhere in her eyes, Firefly wiped them away. Rainbow Dash resumed:

“For the moment, we have something bigger on our backs. First, we have to liberate Canterlot and chase the griffins out of Equestria. When we do that, we’ll worry about that other stuff, OK? Come on, Firefly, let’s go. You’re our leader, however you look at it. A team isn’t the same without a leader. We need you.”

“Yeah... you’re right. But, Rainbow... you know that you’re a pegasus who doesn’t actually need a leader. You can do everything on your own,” Firefly pointed out.

“I know that, but...”

Rainbow Dash hanged her voice for a second before she confessed.

“But... while I was around Twilight and the rest of my friends, I took a few lessons in humility... and I took them the hard way. By that, I mean that I saw my flaws and I have tried to overcome them somehow. They helped me with that as well. Thanks to them... I am the pony you see now.”

She looked into Firefly’s purple eyes.

”Besides... somepony told me that I should get a little more disciplined if my dream is to be realized... There are several reasons for me to keep fighting... and my dream is one of them!”

Firefly immediately knew what she meant. It could have been the reason Spitfire wanted to stay alone with Rainbow back then in Cloudsdale... Now, Firefly had no doubts that Rainbow Dash had a potential to be a famous heroine. The blue-maned flier stood up and wrapped her arm around the blue pony’s neck.

“Well... then I guess I’ll help your dreams come true. I don’t really care what others might think about you, but to me, you’re a great companion. And, you know... I’m glad I’ve met you back then over Ponyville. Heh, funny... It’s been such a long time, and I feel like it happened only a few days ago... Come on, let’s move it, Rainbow Dash!”

Though Rainbow wasn’t technically the best kind of pony for showing sympathy toward others, the war had taught her that it can sometimes save the others from falling into the abyss of despair. It was proven to her once more. Following Firefly, the two winged ponies quickly went towards the throne room.==========

0621 hrs

Canterlot Castle, Throne Room

Both mares had reached the room where the two princesses were deciding upon Edge’s fate. Their horns were glowing with magical aura as they continuously channeled their magical power to keep the barrier around the castle intact. Though both stated already that they knew the griffon was telling the truth from the beginning and didn’t even needed a precise report (which caused Spike to groan quietly to himself in a slight annoyance), both winged unicorns understood everything that was said. Their verdict was surprising to everypony—Princesses Celestia and Luna decided to let Edge go!

While Soarin’ tried to point out the griffon was responsible for more than a few deaths among the ponies, the lunar Princess explained that his vital information will be crucial in stopping, or at the very least, minimizing the griffin expansion. Along with Celestia, they were just about to make the barrier passable in one small point and allow Edge to leave. But Derpy thought that this may be her only chance in finding out who was responsible for Carrot Top’s death. She approached Edge and asked him:

“Please, tell me... did you happened to see a griffon trying to kidnap a little unicorn pony?”

“Perhaps... Yes, I do remember Axe was attempting such an act... until a yellow earth pony got in his way. He then decided to kill her instead of kidnapping the child,” said Edge.

Hearing Axe’s name made the Wonderbolts remember the Talon squadron, which was supposedly annihilated during the Battle for Stalliongrad. It turned out that Axe requested to represent the Talon squadron; he tried to honor his comrades. But what could have been the reason for him trying to kidnap Dinky? For what purpose?

None of that mattered now. Derpy thanked Edge for telling her what she wanted to know. Before he flew outside the castle, he turned his sight to the ponies gathered in the throne room one last time and spoke:

“You ponies aren’t even half as evil as Red Cyclone may say. I see now that I was wrong about you. You could have killed me, and you did not. So I want to give my word: never again shall I rise a talon to harm any of you. If our paths cross again... who knows. For now, farewell.”

Once Edge left, the princesses sealed the barrier back. His fate remained unknown since then.

“See? I told you! Not all griffins are bad,” Medley broke the brief silence that ensued.

Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker looked at Firefly, expecting another outburst of anger. But this time, she simply said: “Yeah, I guess...” not wanting to argue at this point.

The castle was safe once more. Both rulers were visibly exhausted; they were upholding the barrier for about eight hours. Such a feat was possible only due to their immense magical power. But even the Royal Sisters were not able to defend the castle this way forever. And they realized that. Calling out to Phalanx, along with Twilight and her companions, they pleaded them to go and gather any combat-ready pony, anyone who still had the strength to fight on. The Wonderbolts instantly rushed to get Gale, while the members of Mirage squadron were sent to round up the remaining pegasi teams.

Soon only Firefly remained with the Princesses. They saw her uneasy look.

“Firefly?”

“Y-Yes... Princess Celestia?”

“Correct me if I’m wrong, but you look like something is bothering you.”

“They know too, huh”, Firefly thought to herself.

While she hasn’t opened her mouth at first, the pink mare decided that hiding facts from the Royal Sisters would do her no good.

“I... I feel like an outsider. It’s like this feeling has been lingering within me since I came back... So much has happened... When I see other ponies sad or troubled, nothing really triggers inside me... It’s like my heart is icy cold. I do feel inner peace when my friends are around, but this feeling of isolation still gets to me. I think... No... I don’t know what’s wrong with me...”

Her voice was dejected, as if she was about to cry again. Both princesses knew exactly what was tormenting her, but unfortunately, there was nothing they could do.

“We know that you miss your family, Firefly...” Princess Celestia spoke first.

“Your loss is grave, that is why these feelings are consuming you. I... am partially to blame."

She took a deeper breath and continued.

"I knew of what happened... but I couldn’t have done anything in this case. There were no traces of either you or Black Star when the Royal Guards had arrived. Lacking proof of a murder, it was ultimately deemed as unfortunate accident. I am still ashamed of being unable to aid you in this earlier...”

Celestia went silent. Luna decided to take over. “Since your family was divested from you in a violent manner, ‘tis understandable you seek revenge on their killer. But take heed, for defeating him may not take your pain away...” the night princess warned.

“Believe us, if there would be a way to reunite you with your parents, Luna and I would most certainly make it happen. And yet...”

Celestia’s voice turned somber.

“Even though we rule Equestria, we are not as almighty as some ponies may think. While we can raise the sun and the moon, despite our vast power, we are unable to revive... to raise the dead from their graves.”

Firefly listened to their words with a blank expression, seemingly staring into an empty space. So this was the reason of her torment... not the thirst for vengeance... she was just lonely. Friends weren’t enough to soothe her suffering... Firefly needed a family... or somepony who could give her love and care. She lowered her head and dropped a few tears, which fell at the red carpet. The pink flier tried to suppress her emotions, to no avail.

She never felt so helpless before.

“Mom... Dad... I miss you... I miss you so much...” Firefly whispered, sobbing.

And yet, the two sisters also told Firefly her parents “live in her,” they have guided her all the way through many dangers she faced on her path to become stronger. They reminded the pink mare that now she needs to look around, believe in herself and notice one important thing: although her friends aren’t the same as having a family, it’s thanks to them Firefly hasn’t succumbed to despair. They were always willing to help her, if only she could have asked them...

Realizing the meaning behind the royal ponies’ words, Firefly dried her tears and regained her self-assurance. And not a moment too soon; Phalanx, the ponies of Harmony, the Wonderbolts and the Mirage squadron returned with over two hundred other pegasi, unicorns and earth ponies.

0650 hrs

Gale managed to contact two more Wonderbolt members, Fleetfoot and Rapidfire, to aid them in the upcoming battle. With all ponies assembled, Princess Celestia greeted them with a formal tone:

“My little ponies, hear me well. I and my sister Luna have called you here, because we are in need of your help. We can see that the war, which now ravages Equestria, has left many painful imprints on the majority of you. But know this: the conflict was not brought upon us by griffins. This entire war is a heinous and frightful campaign devised by one of them only. Those who are causing chaos in our land are not responsible, for they do not know the true meaning of their actions.”

“Red Cyclone, the treacherous griffin leader, must be defeated if this conflict is to be resolved,” Princess Luna continued.

“For while he lives, terror will roam in Equestria. We know and see that many a pony are tired, but only you are capable of restoring our beloved land to its former glory. This is the moment of truth for us all.”

“Therefore,” Princess Celestia spoke once more, “we must have courage and stand up to the challenge that awaits before us. But this battle will be of utmost danger. Those who will take part in it, may not be able to come back. So we ask for volunteers. Luna?”

“Volunteers, step forward!”

Firefly and her team immediately left the crowd and stood before the thrones. Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Spike, as well as Cheerilee, with the Cutie Mark Crusaders by her side, also stepped forward. Then, the pegasi teams and the Wonderbolts came up toward the princesses. The four foreign aces: Mobius, Talisman, Shamrock and Sky Eye, hovering above the crowd on their wings, were not hesitating either, landing before the Royal Sisters. Other ponies slowly, but surely followed them.

No one was left behind, each and every, all of them wanted to help in defending Equestria. This act of patriotism and devotion brought an inward relieve to Celestia and Luna. They motioned Gale and Sky Eye to come closer and tell the gathered ponies of what would be later called “Operation: Rebirth”—a bold plan to liberate Canterlot.

“The plan is risky, but it’s our only hope in saving the capital” Gale begun.

Due to lack of computers, he resolved to showing a large geographic map of the city, with important areas.

“It involves separating the army we have stationed in the castle into two groups: one will stay here and defend this area long enough to wear the enemy down, while the other strike team will lead a counter-offensive on the griffin positions in the rear. It would flank them between both army groups and they will either be wiped out, forced to surrender or retreat.”

Some ponies were whispering nervously between themselves; while the strategy was adroit, some doubts rose over the fact the griffins pretty much controlled the town area. Getting out of the castle unnoticed was impossible. Princess Celestia eased the ponies’ worries. She would use her magic to teleport the strike team outside to the nearby hills. It was far enough for them to stay away from the enemy detectors and give them time to mount an offence.

“We have agreed that Mirage squadron should be the ones to lead the strike team,” Gale carried on.

“Alongside them, there will be the ponies who bear the Element of Harmony—by this, I’m talking about Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Applejack, leading their respective units. Sky Eye and I also thought that the support in form of Burner, Racer and Garuda teams would be a good idea.”

“There’s one problem, though,” said Sky Eye. “We might have to draft additional fliers to the Burner and Racer teams, as they have only one flier each...”

“No, there is no need for that!” Tornado Swirl’s voice sounded. "Overdrive and I have come to a decision; we will be fighting as sole members of our squadrons. In memory and honor of those who gave their lives... so that we could aid you now.”

Understanding their determination, both strategists agreed to their decision, but stated that an additional team had to be added, just in case. Flare Star’s Dragon squadron had volunteered. Going back to the mission plan, Sky Eye motioned to the Wonderbolts and Mobius, who would act as the main air defense force during the battle and asked everypony to help them out as best as they could.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders were demanding to let them aid others too, but Rarity was very reluctant about this. While Sweetie Belle understood her worries, she said:

“I don’t want to sit back and watch as you risk your life for Equestria, Rarity. Being a filly doesn’t mean I can’t do anything. I’ve made up my mind. I want to help my friends!”

Applejack wasn’t sure about letting her little sister, Apple Bloom, fight either. But she trusted in the yellow filly. Apple Bloom assured Applejack that with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, plus other fillies aiding them, things will be fine. The princesses knew they would need every possible force to hold the attackers away, so they agreed to let the Crusaders join other ponies in defending the castle. Cheerilee was still going to watch over them.

When all have been said, Princess Celestia then turned to her sister. Luna saw that she was slightly exhausted.

“Luna... I shall teleport the strike team outside the castle. It appears this time you have to do the boring task of raising the sun”, the older sister tried to sound a bit jokingly.

Luna, however, was fine with that, calling it “something new”. The moon Princess soon left the chamber to prepare herself and bring about a new day. Celestia, in the meantime, was focusing her powers intensively.

Twilight was getting anxious.

“Princess Celestia...”

“Fear not, Twilight. I will be all right. Focus your mind on the upcoming task. You are responsible for the ones in the strike team. Lead them onward. Be brave. I trust in you, my dear student... I trust in all of you. Good luck, my little ponies. Equestria... depends on you.”

Cheerilee briefly turned toward Firefly and her wingmares and said a phrase the fliers heard once before:

“May the sun and moon shine upon you, Angels of Equestria!”

It followed by the Cutie Mark Crusaders chanting “Angels! Angels!”, with hopeful expressions. The pegasi grinned, thanking them for the much needed boost in spirits.

In a bright flash of light, Twilight, her friends, the ponies under their command, Firefly’s team, Tornado Swirl, Overdrive, the Dragon squadron and the Garuda team vanished. After a brief silence, Phalanx went on explaining the strategy and assigning different squadrons and soldiers to the key areas in Canterlot. The earth ponies and unicorns were to act as a support overall, while the main fighting would once again be carried by the pegasi. The Lancer and Sweeper squadrons were more than ready for another fight, not fazed by seemingly low odds of success. Thunder Flicker proclaimed he “always looks for a challenge.” The Phoenix squadron along with the Wonderbolts were to cooperate together, while Mobius was given a tough job himself; to aid whoever would need assistance. He acknowledged it with a nod.

One of the ponies gathered in the crowd pointed its hoof in the direction of one of the chamber’s big windows.

A dim, yellow-orange glow appeared over the horizon. Princess Luna was raising the sun. Celestia smiled.

“Well done, Luna. I’m so proud of you...”, she thought.

verything was set. Phalanx and the Wonderbolts led the rest of the ponies to the castle’s main gate. They all noticed the barrier started to thin out. Enemies were waiting for them outside, and they were fully aware of that. Everypony was readying themselves for battle.

“This is it, everypony,” Phalanx’s voice sounded.

“Our time has come. Steel yourselves! We shall fight with growing confidence and strength. For our fallen comrades! For Princess Celestia and Princess Luna! For Equestria! Pegasi, soar in the skies! Everypony, move out!”

Chapter 18: Retribution

The time has come for the final offence.

Yet many doubts still swarm one of the heroines.

What will become of those who fought so far?

Will they be forgotten or go down in history?

Chapter 18

“Retribution”

“Where.... am I? Urgh... pain... Girls... where are you...?”

Firefly was lying on the ground in a puddle of blood. Her own blood.

The attack was a failure. All hopes had been crushed. The griffins managed to hold off against the ponies’ final strike. Every surrounding mountain was littered with their bodies. Firefly tried to get up, but hissed in pain; her rear legs were broken. Rolling onto her back, she tried to contact somepony from her unit... No one answered the call. She then heard a voice:

“You fought well... But not well enough.”

The image of a black-feathered griffon soldier appeared before her. He spoke again.

“Your luck has run out. It was foolish of you to bring others to aid you... you have only endangered them. They all lie dead now. Soon you will join them.”

“N-No... you lie!” Firefly exclaimed.

“Do I?” Black Star asked mockingly.

He came closer, standing above Firefly and staring into her eyes.

“You should thank me. Now you’ll get to see your parents again...”

Firefly tried to stand up, but Black Star suddenly pinned her down by violently stomping on her wings. The force of impact crushed her bones, Firefly screamed in unimaginable pain. Her eyes rolled deep inside her skull. Black Star grabbed her by the throat and started to choke her.

“Do not resist... It’s over.”

His grim voice echoed in Firefly’s ears. She tried to release the grip, but it was no use. She was too exhausted. In a desperate measure, the pink pegasus tried to punch her tormentor, but he pinned her arm with the other claw. Black Star tightened the grip, slowly strangling the life out of Firefly. So dark... so cold...

“H-Help... I... I... can’t... breathe... No... No... Mo-o-om... Da-a-ad... N-N-Noo.....!”

“AAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!! NOOOOOO!!!”

May 11th, 2019

0923 hrs

Canterlot, Mirage squadron’s base

Firefly suddenly opened her eyes with a loud scream and sprung up from her bed. Cold sweat was dripping from her face. Breathing rapidly, she tried to get a grasp on her surroundings. Realizing that she was inside the base prepared for her team long ago, she groaned loudly and fell back on the pillow.

“It was just a bad dream... But it seemed so real...” she said to herself, running her hoof across the neck, as if to make sure she was still alive.

“What’s happening to me... Argh, my head... I think I overdid it a little during that last training...”

Yesterday, Firefly decided to recall all maneuvers she taught her wingmares in the past few months, thinking they may come useful in the upcoming decisive battle. The exercise continued until the sunset. Everypony was pleased when they heard Firefly's order to return to their quarters. The pink pegasus didn't make it to her room, though. She trained so hard that she collapsed from exhaustion. Lightning Bolt and Medley carried her to bed where she could rest.

Firefly looked around. She sense a nice smell and noticed one of Derpy's muffins lying next to her bed.

"Did they left it for me? Hah... that's nice of them," Firefly thought.

Hearing her stomach rumbling quietly, she took the muffin and ate it in a few quick bites. She felt a lot better. Further observation allowed Firefly to notice that nopony from her team was in the room.

“Oh... seems like everypony is already up. I wonder what they’re doing.”

Getting off her bed, Firefly started to walk outside the base, passing by Mission Control. She still felt a bit dazed from that nightmare.

The last few days were crucial for the ponies. Despite their groundbreaking victory in the capital and the consequent liberation of other major cities, the war continued. Any major counterattack by the griffins was highly unlikely, but ruffian bands scattered around Equestria still roamed free. The Princesses decided to give Mirage squadron a little well-earned rest and called the other pegasi squadrons as well as the Wonderbolts to clear the areas of enemy presence. More importantly, every pony was already informed and knew about Red Cyclone’s new base, “Fortress Intimidation.”

A general offensive in an attempt to topple his rule and bring the conflict to a close was obvious, but many ponies didn’t feel like taking a part in any more fighting. All they wanted was simply to return to their homes and remain with their families... but things weren’t that easy. If everything was to be successful, the pegasi had to make a relocation back to Cloudsdale. It already begun on the day before yesterday, but what the pegasi saw on their way from Canterlot was appalling. The majority of the landscape was covered in ashes and burnt ground. Many trees were gone, fields consumed by fire, the fate of numerous animals remained unknown. Griffin scorching, as told by Edge. It was a truly disheartening sight. Several fliers, such as Sunburst’s Phoenix squadron were eager to make the griffins pay for their atrocities. Yet, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna reminded them who the real enemy is.

But, at this moment, Firefly’s mind was overflowing with her own worries and thoughts. What could her nightmare mean? What kind of action should she choose next? Having heard a cheer, Firefly moved to an outside area and noticed her wingmares playing a game called “dodgebomb”—it would have been best described as ‘try to hit a pony with a gum ball until there will be a last one standing.’ Derpy, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were already outside of playing field. They were wondering if Firefly was still asleep due the intense training. Medley tried to hit Cloud Kicker while chasing her around. Lightning Bolt was on the side, reading a book.

This sight surprised Firefly greatly. Lightning was usually found with her nose in the computer screen, so this could have been a little unusual. The pegasi didn’t seem to have noticed the pink mare. They just carried on the game while Firefly watched everything from the corridor. They truly cared for her...

“Come on, Medley, hit with me your best shot!” Cloud Kicker cried at her from behind.

“You bet I will!”

The green pegasus made a quick turn around and before Cloud Kicker could react, the pink gum ball smacked her in the face. Medley danced in the air, overjoyed.

“Yaaaay! I won! Did you see that, Rainbow Dash?”

“Nice job, Kid. Your reflexes are improving,” Rainbow praised her.

Cloud Kicker wasn’t as pleased.

“That was just a fluke. I demand a rematch!” she exclaimed.

“Try to be a good sport, Cloud Kicker. Medley was simply faster than you,” Lightning Bolt suddenly spoke.

Firefly used this break in the game to get their attention.

“Seems like you girls are having fun.”

Rainbow and the others almost instantaneously spun their heads in the opposite direction. Firefly laughed at their expressions, telling them to go at ease. She reminded her friends that it was only a matter of time before the final offence at Gryphus would take place. While they told her they could use a little break after an intense training they had yesterday, Firefly remembered about Fluttershy.

“So, Butterfly, how are you feeling?”

“Oh, much better,” said Fluttershy.

“I still have a bruise or two on my stomach, but it’s nothing. But... I wonder how much longer should we wait for official orders... the Wonderbolts were supposed to let us know once they will come up with a strategy...”

Just then, the signal used for receiving messages in Mission Control suddenly blared.

“You were saying?” Firefly asked. “Let’s go!”

When they got before the large monitor presenting a digitized map of Equestria and its borders, Gale’s voice was heard:

“Mirage squadron. We have a situation. The griffins, especially those fiercely loyal to Red Cyclone still continue to resist and have no intentions on surrendering. I’ve recently acquired reports that several ruffians are establishing a resupply base in Drakenridge Mountains. Another group is preparing a retaliatory strike on Hoofington. Seems like our enemy is on the move.”

“And you want us to take care of them?” Firefly guessed.

“No, there is no time. I have already dispatched Phoenix, Sweeper, Lancer and Dragon squadrons to deal with them. You must concern yourself with leading the attack on Gryphus. We cannot waste any more time. Therefore, you will have to leave Canterlot and immediately head for the border. It falls onto your shoulders again to lead the key operation. The other pegasi squadrons will join you as soon as they are all done with the ruffians.”

Realizing that this could be their most important mission in this conflict, the pegasi braced themselves. Medley and Derpy seemed a little tense, though.

“So, what are the orders?” Rainbow asked.

“Your mission is to reach the griffin capital city of Gryphus, destroy Fortress Intimidation and put an end to the war. The place is heavily fortified, so you will need to take care of potential defenders as well as the anti-air turrets placed around. There could also be several radar jammers. Be prepared for radar interference. Our research indicates that Fortress Intimidation is similar in construction to The Burning Talon. However, it is much larger and its armor cannot be penetrated even with the Sonic Rainboom.”

Hearing that, Rainbow sighed in disappointment. Others looked at each other, uncertain of what should they do. But Gale hasn’t finished. He presented them with a cross-section of the fortress.

“The only way to destroy this fortress is to fly into the tunnels leading inside. That’s where the three generators which power the defensive weapons are. You’ll have to destroy these generators, and then go for the main core. Its collapse should cause a chain reaction which will lead to the destruction of the base. The mission will be considered a success if you’ll render the fortress unusable, defeat Red Cyclone and return alive, all seven of you. Everything else is unacceptable. Contact me as soon as you’ll reach the border. That is all. Dismissed.”

==========

Rainbow Dash, Firefly, Lightning Bolt, Cloud Kicker, Medley, Fluttershy and Derpy looked at each other. So, once again, it was up to them to lead the advance against their enemies. This could have been a decisive blow, one that would finally bring this war to an end.

“Well, it has come to this, everypony,” Firefly proclaimed.

“We’ll be leaving in ten minutes. I hope you’re all fit as a fiddle.”

While they all seemed eager to fly to action, Lightning Bolt peeked into her book again. Cloud Kicker noticed it.

“Hey Lightning, what’cha reading there, anyway?”

The white pegasus showed the book’s cover. Others came closer to examine it. It didn’t look like a large tome, more like a novel. The most distinguishable thing on its front was a picture of four adult pegasi ponies in flight, three males and one female. One of them, a tall male pegasus on the front wore sunglasses. Though each of them had a different color of mane and coat, there was one thing they all had. They were all wearing black vests with some red outlines. Medley caught a glimpse on the book’s title.

“The Unsung War...? I didn’t knew you liked those kinds of stories, Lightning.”

“This book was just recently published in Equestria, as it was initially written outside its borders,” Lightning Bolt explained.

“Twilight was the first to get it, naturally. She figured I should read it, because she says we have a lot of things in common with the heroes of this book.”

Rainbow Dash remembered that it was thanks to Twilight she discovered that reading is not as ‘uncool’ as she initially thought. Even though she was more into adventure books, featuring the famous Daring Do, this sounded interesting as well.

“What’s it about?” she asked.

Lightning Bolt used this little time they had left before the sortie to tell them, in a nutshell, about the events written down in the book. It was a story of a long, grueling war that happened between two countries to the west of Equestria. The main protagonists comprised just one of many squadrons the attacked country had and they started as a bunch of ‘nuggets’ or rookies. But their feats during the conflict earned them the titles of heroes.

“Yeah, I can see the resemblance. We can relate to them,” Medley spoke.

Then, Lightning told them about a darker part of the story. Where the similarities ended.

“When one of the heroes was killed in a surprise attack orchestrated by the enemy, his companions were distraught. But it somehow gave them the strength to overcome the remaining foes. In retaliation, the enemy prepared a clever trap and made it look as if, during one of their missions, the heroes attacked a friendly squadron. They were branded traitors and had to feign their own deaths to escape punishment. One of their friends knew they were innocent and helped them. After a short period of time, the pegasi returned, now reinforced with a new flier. They were all four again and they were all wearing these black vests you see.”

The pegasi looked at the cover again. There must have been some reason behind this choice of colors. Or maybe it could have been some sort of a symbolism. Lightning carried on.

“With newly found resolve and desire to bring the war to an end, as well as punish those who tricked them, the pegasi became a force to be reckoned with. They were unstoppable. A true bane of the enemy forces. Many called them “The Ghosts of Razgriz”.

“Ra... what?” Medley asked.

“According to a legend described in the book, Razgriz is a demon from the north, who awakens when history undergoes a great change,” Lightning Bolt explained.

“It uses its power to rain destruction and death upon the world and then, it dies. Then, after a period of time, when another conflict erupts, Razgriz returns... but this time, as a great hero.”

“Just like those pegasi...” Fluttershy figured.

“Right, but there is one thing that bothers me,” the white pegasus confessed.

“At the end of the story, it is said the heroes disappeared. The reason for that is unknown... they’ve just left without leaving any traces of their presence... like real ghosts.”

All fliers thought about this for a while. Derpy came to a conclusion that they simply wished to live simple lives and didn’t want to be involved with warfare anymore. Even if it meant for them to disappear from the history and their feats were to be exalted as myths and legends.

“Perhaps that’s why the book is called The Unsung War...” the grey mare figured.

“Hey... do you think that...” Medley started. “When the war will end... do you think we will be forgotten, too? That we will be normal, average pegasi again...?”

“Unless you want a whole flock of journalists following you wherever you’ll go, it’s fine by me,” Lightning Bolt remarked.

“But for some reason, I don’t think we’ll end up like them.”

“Yeah. The Princesses already said they were grateful to us. And everypony knows about the Elements of Harmony... so maybe they’ll remember us as well,” Cloud Kicker added.

“We may not be the Ghosts of Razgriz, but we did managed to pull out some amazing stunts,” Rainbow Dash reminded them.

“Things are gonna be just fine.”

Firefly wasn’t taking an active part in the discussion. Indeed, she thought about the meaning of this story, but it wasn’t so important for her. Rainbow Dash saw her uneasy expression.

“Hey, you’re OK, Firefly? You look pale...”

“You must be seeing things. Come on everypony, let’s get ready to sortie,” she replied brusquely.

But as the pegasi were about to fly out, Firefly rubbed her eyes, accidentaly catching Medley’s attention.

“What’s wrong, Firefly? You’re still sleepy?”

“No, it’s not that, I just... Oh hay, who am I kidding!” Firefly yelled suddenly, causing the others to look at her with surprised expressions.

She couldn’t keep it before them any longer. The pink mare turned around and looked at her companions. They saw Firefly’s anguished face. It was a face of a pony who was tormented by some inner demons.

“Girls...” she started.

“...I want to tell you something. I know I should’ve done it sooner, and... this might be the only chance I have left... I’m sorry.”

“Come again?” Derpy asked, confused.

“I said I’m sorry!” Firefly reiterated, rising the volume of her voice.

“I know that I’ve treated you unfairly at times... and I’ve been cold toward you... acting like a jerk... I feel so ashamed...”

Other ponies exchanged glances. They didn’t know why Firefly was acting like this. Cloud Kicker said that for whatever reason she was treating them that way, it didn’t matter for them. They had already forgiven her. The blue-maned flier gazed on the six pegasi.

“You girls are my best friends... probably the only ponies I can trust... and you’re great wingmares to boot... It’s been an honor to fly by your side, but... I’m afraid this is where we part ways... I’ve reached the end of the road. I can no longer lead you.”

“But... What?!”

“What are you saying?”

“That’s not like you...”

“You’re our leader, we need you...”

Firefly rose her right hoof to calm them down. She said:

“Please, listen... I thought about it and... and I figured that the only way I can face Black Star is to do it alone. And I mean it in every possible way. I first met him when I was completely alone... and I’ll fight him like that... as a lone pony. I must face him as Firefly, not as the leader of Mirage squadron. I hope you will understand. That’s why... Rainbow Dash.”

The blue pegasus came closer. Firefly put her hooves on Rainbow’s shoulders and grinned.

“From now on, you’re the new leader of Mirage squadron. My heart is set. I know I can trust you. Besides, you’re a better material for a heroine than me. Please, don’t say no.”

Rainbow was more than surprised hearing that. Though she tried to oppose the decision, Firefly’s will remained unflinching. She took her pink vest off and laid it on the floor. It meant she really was going to leave. Firefly headed to the outside. She was just about to spread her wings... and it looked like she was about to fly away...

“My time has come...”

“WAIT! You can’t do this!”

Firefly stopped. Others turned their sights to Medley, seeing the young pegasus staring at their former leader with disbelief. She looked like she was about to cry.

“So... that’s it?!” Medley voice was unusually high-pitched.

“After all we’ve been through... after all these battles... all these moments we’ve shared... now you want to ABANDON us?! NO! Don’t you dare leave us! That’s not right!”

The green pegasus was shaking her head in denial.

“Calm yourself down, Kid!” Rainbow Dash scolded her.

“No need for hysterics. Firefly never said she would abandon us... right?”

The pink pegasus sighed loudly and looked at her friends again.

“To tell the truth... I was initially planning on leaving without telling you... But I came to the conclusion that it wouldn’t be the right thing. No pony should be turning their back on their friends. And I haven’t been earning your trust this whole time just so I could trample it under my hooves now. I’m not that kind of a mare.”

When Lightning Bolt asked for the real reason, Firefly simply smiled and said:

“When I will get to Gryphus, I will fight Black Star. And I don’t know what the outcome will be... but I’m determined to fulfill the promise I gave to my parents.”

“So... you will fight him... and kill him?” Derpy asked.

“I don’t know... he deserves to die... and maybe that’s what he wants... but I’m not really sure... I can’t promise you that I won’t kill him, though...”

Firefly sounded like she was battling her desire to eliminate the one who killed her parents... one that she used to consider a heartless being. Derpy came closer and looked into Firefly’s eyes.

“We have faith in you, Firefly. Just be careful. Don’t let the anger overwhelm you. Defeat Black Star, but don’t kill him. Doing so won’t solve your problems, it will only make them worse...”

The pink mare suddenly chuckled.

“What? Did I said something funny?”

“No... but that sounds like somepony who told me these words before...”

Rainbow then decided to give her companion a few decisive statements. She came closer.

“Listen, Firefly. Even if you’ve made up your mind, I’ve got something to tell you as well. You may not consider yourself to be our leader anymore... but in our hearts, you still are.”

“Yeah. Remember, you’ve put your trust in us all,” said Lightning Bolt.

“You taught us the value of teamwork,” Cloud Kicker added.

“Thank to you, we’ve managed to survive until now,” Fluttershy said with gratitude.

“And it was thanks to you we’ve become such a great team,” Derpy concluded.

Firefly looked at the pegasi, who were praising her for her accomplishments. She tried to say that she didn’t deserve any of these approves, but all words seemed to be lodged in her throat. Medley approached her.

“It’s a good thing you’re being sincere with us now. But, hey, even if you hadn’t told us anything, we would have followed you anyway. You won’t get rid of us that easily,” she giggled.

Rainbow Dash stuck her hoof out with a big grin.

“So, what do you say, Firefly? Friends ‘till the end?”

Lightning Bolt, Cloud Kicker, Derpy, Fluttershy and Medley all put their hooves close to Rainbow’s, signifying a unity. Then they turned their sights on the pink pony. Firefly looked at this act of friendship and let out another loud sigh.

“Heh... what am I going to do with you... You are a bunch of stubborn mules!”

“Look who’s talking,” Cloud Kicker remarked.

All seven ponies burst into laughter. Firefly got closer.

“Fine. Looks like I’m gonna have to bear your presence a little while longer.”

She put her hoof on Rainbow’s. The blue pegasus acquitted it with a nod. She was feeling at home.

“Alright then. Here is my first order as the new leader of the Mirage squadron! We‘re going to Gryphus to end this war and take Red Cyclone down! You’re all with me?”

Other pegasi reacted positively, and soon all seven took off into the blue skies, setting their course toward the border. They expected to get there rather fast.

As they were leaving Canterlot, they saw the streets were filled with ponies who were jumping in joy, waving at them and raising a few banners. One of them, being held by a few fillies, had large and visible words written on it: ‘GOOD LUCK, ANGELS OF EQUESTRIA!’, while another was saying: ‘MIRAGE SQUADRON RULES!’ with blinking letters, possibly an effect of magic. All ponies were cheering and chanting “Angels!” or “Mirage!” as the fliers passed them by. This display of trust encouraged them.

They could hear the loud cheers even after they’ve passed over the gates of Canterlot.

“Did you heard those cheers? Don’t tell me you didn’t!” Cloud Kicker said, excited.

“Well, that’s another reason for us to make sure the mission is a success.” Rainbow Dash said aloud.

“Maintain current course. We should reach the border at 1100 hours.”

==========

1045 hrs

Equestrian airspace

There was still a hard road ahead of them. Flying through the horribly scorched grounds of their homeland all the way until the border became a hard experience for all of them. Especially for Fluttershy. Seeing so much destruction unfold before her eyes was depressing for the yellow pegasus. She couldn’t comprehend how anyone could have ordered such a barbaric onslaught.

“Rainbow... what if... what if Ponyville was...! Oh no! My friends!”

She tried to turn left and fly in the town’s direction, but Rainbow Dash stopped her.

“No, Fluttershy! Stay in formation! I know it’s hard for you, but we can’t go to Ponyville just yet. Besides, I’m sure your animal friends are fine. They’ve managed to survive all this time, so I’m willing to bet they’re all alive and well. Focus your mind on the mission ahead!”

Fluttershy was hovering in the air for a while, but ultimately lowered her head and returned back into formation, flying beside Rainbow. Other pegasi were shocked as well.

“There used to be a forest nearby...” Cloud Kicker remembered.

“Now, all trees are gone. This is horrible...”

“I just hope all the animals managed to escape to safety...” Medley said with a sad voice.

“What if the whole Equestria looks like this...” Derpy wondered.

“Unbelievable...”

“Red Cyclone, that fiend! All of this happened because of his orders!” Lightning Bolt exclaimed.

“He won’t get away with this!”

As they were coming closer to the border, Medley suddenly thought about something. Since Canterlot was liberated, she haven’t saw any of the foreign pegasi fliers.

“Hey, Rainbow... I mean, Mirage 1. Did you received any word from the Garuda team or Sky Eye? Are they coming with us?”

“You can still call me Rainbow, Kid. It sounds better,” Dash replied before answering her question.

“Now that you brought this up... I haven’t received any word from them in the past two days. They might’ve returned back to their countries... And who could blame them? These guys already saved our flanks a couple of times. So we have to make sure their assistance would not end up as meaningless.”

Firefly imagined their faces. It was a fact they became a major support for the squadron. And yet, if they would have indeed gone back to their respective countries, she respected that decision. The pink mare wasn’t taking any activity in the conversations between the team anyway. Black Star was all she was thinking about now... what was the real reason behind his involvement in this war? Could it have something to do with her...? Rainbow’s voice interrupted Firefly’s thoughts.

“We’re approaching the border. Any sign of additional units, Thunder?”

“Negative,” Lightning Bolt responded at first.

“No aerial units inbound... but I’m detecting several forces on the ground, just ahead.”

Truth be told, a group of about one hundred and twenty, one hundred and fifty maybe earth ponies and unicorns was awaiting by the border. Cloud Kicker recognized the banner that stood out in the front; it was the same one that Twilight Sparkle held during the retaking of the capital, the same symbol that the Royal Sisters projected before the ponies to boost their spirits. Seeing this, the Mirage squadron started descending to a lower altitude and was met with more cheers. Rainbow Dash approached the group. Twilight, Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie Pie went to greet the squadron.

“Took ya long enough, Rainbow. We’ve been waiting ‘ere for the last two hours fer you to come,” said Applejack.

“What are you doing here?” the blue pegasus wondered.

“We’re here to help you as a ground support, of course,” Rarity replied.

That was certainly a positive declaration, but Rainbow also knew that if the mission was to be successful, they needed air support. Still, there were no other squadrons in the vicinity.

“Well... In worst-case scenario, we may end up going to Gryphus alone,” Firefly said.

“I’m kinda thrilled. But our chances for winning will be slim, even with the ground support...”

But it wasn’t a good perspective. Everypony was aware of potential threats, but they still had no information about Fortress Intimidation or its defensive capabilities. The anti-air turrets that filled the area around it were already a lot, but there could have been more... While she was thinking of all the possibilities, Rainbow couldn’t come up with any option other than a direct assault. The griffins who were loyal to Red Cyclone and, judging from the last reports, their numbers were quite significant, would pose a serious threat to the ponies.

This really started to seem like an impossible mission. Knowing that time was of the essence, Rainbow decided to contact Gale.

“Gale, this is Mirage 1. We’ve reached the border.”

“Rainbow Dash?”

Gale sounded surprised at first, but he seemed to had quickly understood something moments later.

“Oh, so you’re the squadron leader now.”

“Yeah. But that has no effect on our mission. We’re ready to go.”

The Wonderbolt operator told them to stay and wait patiently. When asked why, he explained.

“It’s highly likely that this will be your final mission. We need heroes after the war, too. That’s why your squadron can’t go there alone. That would be a suicide. Just wait... I think that...”

“Rainbow!” Lightning Bolt exclaimed suddenly.

“I’ve got several contacts on my radar! They’re approaching from east and west... and they have friendly IDs!”

“Heeey!”

A loud, teen-aged voice sounded in the communicators of the pegasi from Mirage squadron. There was a group of fliers approaching the rendezvous point.

“Hey, Mirage! It’s nice to see you’ve waited for us before starting the party!” Quick Chaser sounded excited.

“This is Sweeper 1, my team is ready to assist you!”

“Don’t try to get all the credit, Quick Chaser,” Thunder Flicker said with a swaggering voice.

“Lancer 1 here! We’re here to help, too.”

The pegasi were glad to see their friends arriving just in time. Quick Chaser and Thunder Flicker were in good humour and started talking about having a bet: which team would destroy the most anti-air turrets, jammers or any other devices that would prevent the ponies from advancing.

“How about it, Lancer 1? The loser gets to buy the drinks for the winners!” Quick Chaser finished explaining the rules.

“Heh. You know that I always like a challenge. You’re on!” the amber pegasus replied.

“I suggest you two focus on getting to the griffin capital alive first,” a more mature male voice sounded.

“Sunburst!”

Derpy recognized the voice’s owner, much to her joy.

“You’re here!”

“Yes, and it seems we’re just in time! The Phoenix squadron will provide with support again during this mission, Mirage!” the orange pegasus declared.

Within a few seconds, three more contacts were picked up by Lightning Bolt. These were coming from the direction of Drakenridge Mountains, which were named after being a key place for a dragon migration in ages past. Now the place was mostly abandoned, but it was a perfect location for a base. Another familiar voice greeted the heroines.

“Are there any free spots for us? We don’t wanna miss this raid! Dragon squadron is here to back you up, gals!”

“Flare Star!” Fluttershy sounded really glad.

“Hey there, Butterfly. How are you feeling after that beatdown?”

The green pegasus came closer and patted Fluttershy on the back.

“Oh, I’m much better now, thank you,” she replied.

In a span of five minutes, the Mirage squadron now had a backup of four additional squadrons, each consisting of three or four fliers. But Gale noticed that not all forces were present. Lightning reported that more contacts were coming from the south... from Canterlot.

“Hey, don’t start this party without us!”

A youthful, energetic voice echoed in every communicator.

It was Tornado Swirl. Overdrive was flying right next to him. Their sight was rejoicing, mainly because they each had three new members with them, so their squadrons, Burner and Racer, were strengthened. The pegasi forces now amassed to over thirty units. Firefly noticed these numbers had a good chance of getting to Gryphus.

But, just then, four new contacts were picked up by Lightning Bolt. She seemed puzzled this time.

“Strange... the radar confirms the IDs are friendly, but I have no data about them.”

“No wonder. My squadron was formed just yesterday. This is Falcon 1 and we’re here to back you up as well, Mirage!”

"That voice... Thunderlane?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

The dark gray pegasus with amber eyes looked like an unexpected visitor for her.

“Hey, so you still remember me, Rainbow Dash,” Thunderlane’s voice sounded again.

“I’ve rounded up some of our friends to join me. Flitter, Cloudchaser and Blossomforth will help out, too.”

When they approached the gathered pegasi, they could see the newly formed squadron. Flitter and Cloudchaser were twins, with the former being distinguished from the latter by a pink ribbon. Both of them had a bright violet coat. Blossomforth was a white pegasus with blue eyes and wore a mane in two colors, pink and green. All four wore dark blue vests with falcon’s image.

“Where the hay you’ve been until now?” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Been there, done that... It’s not like I didn’t fight,” Thunderlane replied.

“I’ve actually saved Flitter and Cloudchaser from being killed and, in return, they wanted to join my newly formed squadron.”

“Are you kidding?” Flitter asked. “Cloudchaser and I were doing fine on our own.”

“That’s not how I remember it!” Thunderlane remarked.

“You just love to exaggerate about your bravery, don’t you, Falcon 1?”

A voice of a young adult mare was heard. Thunderlane looked behind him. Medley noticed a team of five pegasi approaching their positions.

“There you are, Rainbowshine,” the dark gray colt commented. “Always late for the party.”

“Just be glad we made it. Mirage flight, this is Rainbowshine, callsign Sorcerer 1. We’ll provide you with aerial support. Good to be flying with you.”

It was a mare with an indigo coat, sporting pink mane and eyes, her cutie mark being a three-colored rainbow.

The ponies on the grounds seemed to be relieved to see so many pegasi above them. It was safe to say that Rainbow Dash wasn’t expecting such a large backup. Having a moment, she got herself acquainted with the two new squadrons quickly before she turned in the direction of the mountains, extending beyond the horizon and declaring:

“With this kind of support, there’s no way we can lose. Come on everypony, let’s—”

“Hold on! You’re going without us?”

Rainbow stopped dead in place when she heard that voice. All pegasi turned around and the soldiers on the ground looked up to see three more pegasi approaching. They were wearing characteristic blue costumes.

“Spitfire! The Wonderbolts!” the blue pegasus exclaimed with her jaw dropped.

When the three pegasi came closer, Soarin’ chuckled:

“What’s with that look, Rainbow Dash? Did you really thought we would’ve missed that kind of assignment? Not a chance in the world!”

“We would’ve been here faster if you weren’t gobbling that apple pie up for so long, sir,” Firebolt said with a mild snarl.

“Firebolt, that’s Soarin’ for you. You know he never passed by one of those goodies,” Spitfire said jokingly before approaching Rainbow Dash.

“So, Dash... I see that you’ve got promoted, in a sense. I’m looking forward to see some daring flying.”

Rainbow didn’t say a word and simply nodded. So much assistance, so much support... she felt like a great load was dropped off her mind. With the Wonderbolts aiding the squadrons and her friends as the ground support, she felt ready for anything. Rainbow was just about to begin leading the flight, but Lightning Bolt’s radar picked a few more signals.

“There are three more contacts coming here... and they’re fast. Very fast!”

“Could they be...?”

The pegasi turned their sights to the east to witness three male pegasi dispersing the nearby clouds as they were heading toward the assembled pony units. Cloud Kicker and Medley recognized their superior agility.

“Talisman! Shamrock! Mobius is there, too!” they exclaimed in excitement.

Noticing the three aces swirling through the skies, Thunderlane couldn’t help, but to ask:

“Hey, Lancer 1! Is that the famous Garuda team I’ve kept hearing about recently?” he asked Thunder Flicker.

“Yeah, it’s them, alright. Those guys aren’t any whipping boys. You could learn a thing or two from them, Falcon 1,” he replied, laughing.

"Looks like the gang's all here!"

When the pegasi reached the Mirage squadron, Rainbow went ahead to speak with them.

“Talisman, Shamrock... What are you guys doing in here?”

“What does it look like?” the green stallion replied.

“We’ve come to help you.”

“But... you’ve already done a lot for us...” Fluttershy said sheepishly.

Shamrock looked into her green eyes and smiled.

“Do you remember what I said back in Canterlot? An angel doesn’t turn in his wings...”

“... until after his last dance,” Fluttershy finished.

She finally understood what Shamrock meant back then. He was ready to fight and end this horrible war. Talisman supported him fully. They were ready.

Rainbow then turned her sight to Mobius. He stared deeply into her eyes, but Rainbow felt no pressure at all. It was all different than when she saw him for the first time... over Gildsedale Plains, as he saved her and her friends, or when he aided her at The Burning Talon and in Stalliongrad. He really seemed friendly now.

“Mobius... you’re going to help us, too?” she asked.

He confirmed it with a nod. A dim smile appeared on his face.

“He would have come with you anyway. There’s a reason for that.”

Sky Eye’s voice was heard from the blue stallion’s radio. He was in Cloudsdale, sitting next to Gale.

“An old adversary is waiting for him... a griffon soldier named Echo. They have some unfinished business left to take care of... since the days they were fighting in Urusea.”

“I see... so it’s going to be personal, huh?” Rainbow asked.

“Y’know, a friend of mine can relate to that,” she added, glancing at Firefly, who was overhearing all conversations.

For some reason, known only to herself, the pink pegasus lightened up a bit.

==========

1130 hrs

Equestrian airspace, The Griffin Kingdom border

After summing up all available forces, there were six major ground divisions, four of which were led by the ponies representing the Elements of Harmony. Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie were all eager to go. The pegasi had a total of ten squadrons, with the Garuda Team, Mobius and the Wonderbolts accounted as well; over fifty fliers ready for aerial skirmishes. Gale was overseeing the summing and was more than pleased to see so many fine pegasi together. Phalanx also contacted them briefly, saying that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna gave them their blessing, advising everypony to fight with courage, determination and hope. Spitfire was officially in charge of the aerial operations, while Twilight Sparkle was to lead the ground forces.

Rainbow Dash looked at each and every pegasus. Gale asked all teams to verify their readiness. The leaders responded one by one:

“Sweeper squadron, ready to go!”

“Lancer squadron, at the ready!”

“Phoenix squadron, all set!”

“Dragon squadron, ready any time!”

“Burner squadron, reporting in!”

“Racer squadron, raring to go!”

“Falcon squadron, ready to fly!”

“Sorcerer squadron, read you loud and clear!”

“Garuda team ready for battle!”

“Wonderbolts standing by!”

“Mobius 1 on standby!” Sky Eye announced Mobius’ readiness.

“Mirage squadron, we’re ready to go!”

“All allied forces at the border, begin your approach toward the enemy base,” Gale ordered.

“I will be monitoring your progress and provide you with necessary... Wait! Hold on! I’ve just received a transmission... from Gryphus!”

This unexpected statement caused all ponies to stop advancing. What could this mean? Gale patched the message through. Everypony heard a rough voice.

“So, you pathetic little ponies finally decided to move your rumps, I see. How amusing. This is Red Cyclone, Supreme Commander of the Griffin Army. You would be wise to stay where you are unless you wish to be filled full of lead. As soon as you cross the borders, your fates will be sealed. You cannot win this war. But if you’re foolish enough to try, you will have to seek out my Fortress Intimidation. I and all of my soldiers are waiting for you right here... in The Valley of Kings. Try your best... but your end will come.”

The message ended with a wicked laughter. But the ponies didn’t allow those threats to stop them. Those on the ground continued marching on, while the pegasi flew forward, straight into the narrow canyons that looked like an ominous passage between the two countries.

Any remaining green fields and plains of Equestria soon vanished. Now there were only rocks, dirt and many unknown dangers awaiting for the ponies. Some still wondered why Red Cyclone was sounding so confident. Could he be hiding some kind of ace in the hole? Or was it just another petty attempt of trying to scare the ponies? It didn’t really mattered to them. The Mirage squadron led the flight into the Griffin Kingdom. After several minutes of research and analysis, Gale, together with Sky Eye, managed to locate the region Red Cyclone mentioned. The march was then resumed.

Along the way, both Twilight’s ground forces and the pegasi squadrons were ambushed several times by the hidden anti-air turrets, located in the walls of the canyons. But they cooperated and managed to destroy them. None of the fliers died, only a few soldiers were injured. Finally, as the sun reached its peak, they have saw it from the distance.

The Valley of Kings. It was there that the final battle would take place. Rainbow Dash and her companions were well aware of the great responsibility before them. And they were ready to meet whatever challenge that awaited for them head on. Though Firefly had her mind focused on Black Star more, she had no intention of abandoning the team.

Neither now nor ever.

Chapter 19: End of Deception

Surrounded by tall peaks and vast canyons,

The heroines begin the assault on the enemy base.

Much will be revealed, for better or worse.

But will the final reckoning truly end the war?

Chapter 19

“End of Deception”

May 11th, 2019

1300 hrs

The Valley of Kings

The ponies had finally arrived. The sides of the nearby canyons were filled with griffin soldiers, who were waiting for their leader’s order to begin the battle. Twilight Sparkle thought that this could be an opportunity to see how they were truly loyal to Red Cyclone. She stepped forward, keeping the banner of Equestria in the air with her magic, with multiple griffin sights following her. The purple unicorn spoke with a very formal tone.

“Red Cyclone! We all come here in the name of Princesses Celestia and Luna, rulers of Equestria. We offer you a chance to stand down. It’s not too late to surrender. There is no need for any more bloodshed. ”

The crimson griffon’s reply was a roar of laughter. He sounded very confident.

“Why are you wasting our time, stupid equines? I will decide when this war will end, and now is not the time, yet. There is no point in peace settlement. You better worry about yourselves. This is our turf, and we will fly as we please. Soldiers! Get to your positions! Let’s give those wretched ponies the punishment they deserve for killing our general!”

As soon as Red Cyclone finished his speech, no less than fifty griffin soldiers flew upward, ready to begin the final confrontation. The pegasi were not hesitating any longer. All of them headed to meet the griffons in battle. The whole battlefield had several anti-air turrets placed here and there. The plan was formulated for the ground forces and occasional pegasi to attack and destroy them while the winged ponies would be supporting those on the ground. Both earth ponies and unicorns were capable of defending themselves, but not against a large scale attack. Before Rainbow Dash and Spitfire headed into combat side-by-side, Gale’s voice sounded in every pony’s headphones:

“To all units. This is probably our final sortie. Unlike you, fighting on the frontlines, I sit behind the monitor and observe the battle. I’m in no position to ask you anything, but please allow me this one request. End this war and return to Equestria. That is all.”

“This is Spitfire, roger that. Let him talk as bold as he wants, this war ends now! Ain’t that right, Rainbow?” the fiery-maned pegasus spoke with determination.

“We’ll show him what we got,” Rainbow assured the Wonderbolt captain.

“Twilight, if you’ll need help, the other squadrons will provide air-to-ground support. But our main priority is to break through their defenses and take out Fortress Intimidation.”

“I understand. We appreciate your help, Rainbow,” Twilight replied. “Lead the way!”

“All pegasi, you are cleared hot! Engage!” Spitfire announced through the radio.

In an instant, the skies above The Valley of Kings were filled with fighters from both sides, each of them fighting for their own cause. The griffins blindly trusted Red Cyclone and were still not aware of his true intentions. All the while, as the battle went on and he observed it from a safe distance, leaving the command over the army to Zeakros, the crimson griffon had another plan set in motion. It wasn’t just a few minutes after the battle commenced that the whole situation was going downhill for the griffins. Because the superior agility of the ponies allowed them to stay ahead of the anti-air turrets’ fire while keeping the majority of the enemy forces occupied, they had a great advantage. Zeakros turned to one of the soldiers who was whining especially loudly:

“Don’t be fooled by their numbers! Don’t make yourselves a target. Spread out!”

“Dammit!” the soldier’s reply was filled with angst.

“Don’t superior defenses count for anything? Sir, we’re losing!”

“Stop your whining,” Red Cyclone responded.

“Besides, I’ve got a little surprise for those meddlesome ponies... heh, heh, heh...”

He readjusted the frequency to contact the operators inside Fortress Intimidation.

Red Cyclone decided that the time has come. He was about to demonstrate them the secret weapon stored inside his fortress.

“Commence the operation!”

Focusing on their own duty, Rainbow Dash and her wingmares flew through several canyons leading to the location of Fortress Intimidation. These canyons were packed with some anti-air turrets as well, but, luckily for them, the Sweeper and Lancer squadrons offered to take those out. They had used a simple, but effective tactic: when one team drew the turrets’ fire, the other went in to destroy them. As the two squadrons were going ahead, all mechanical contraptions were soon gone. The route was clear.

The Garuda team and Mobius joined the Mirage squadron as well, curious to what this fortress looked like. Now that he thought about it, the blue stallion remembered a certain base he destroyed during the war in the west. Its design and placement he saw earlier was almost matching the one of Red Cyclone’s creation...

MEANWHILE

Cloudsdale Command Center

“So, the battle has begun...” Sky Eye thought aloud.

“I only hope they will all make it back alive...”

He noticed Gale’s uneasy expression.

“Everything OK?”

“Not really... I’m concerned about Red Cyclone’s behaviour... Didn’t you noticed that he’s acting like he has another ace in the hole?” the pegasus operator asked.

Though Sky Eye didn’t said anything, he agreed completely. There was something disturbing in Red Cyclone’s confidence... Just then, Gale received a call.

“Come in Gale, this is Hornet 1. Do you read me?” a voice of an adolescent colt asked.

“Yes, I hear you well. How’s the operation?”

“We’ve reached Asgard per your orders, just like we’ve planned. And there’s no one here. It appears all have left for Gryphus and its vicinity.”

“Acknowledged, Hornet 1,” Gale responded. “So, did you managed to find anything?”

"Wait, what's this about?" Sky Eye asked.

Gale told him that, knowing Red Cyclone’s way of thinking so far, there must have been some kind of secret behind his fortress. That’s why he ordered the Hornet squadron to investigate the weapon factory in Asgard in hopes of finding secret plans or blueprints or anything that would help. Sky Eye thought of it as “a smart move.” Gale again asked through the radio if they managed to discover anything. The answer nearly made Sky Eye fell from the chair the operator was sitting on.

“We did found some plans about Fortress Intimidation...” Hornet 1 started with a slightly ominous voice.

“But there’s something odd about them... they show some structures and a large object with a shell... or should I say, a warhead. It’s enormous... and it’s apparently called... wait... a ‘burst missile’ or something like that...”

Sky Eye’s expression appeared shocked. His irises widened when he heard that term. Gale noticed it and asked Sky Eye if he knew anything about those “burst missiles.” He explained to Gale in detail that a burst missile is a special type of weapon that can be launched from a long distance and is known for exploding multiple times in midair, capable of obliterating everything above 1000 and below 5000 feet. Sky Eye saw some of these missiles in action while he helped Mobius in tracking down some of Urusean rouges. Additionally, they were also used in a different war im the west, to a truly devastating effect.

The white pegasus told Gale to quickly radio all pony forces in to tell them about this new threat or else they will experience a horror beyond their beliefs...

1320 hrs

The Valley of Kings

So far, everything was going well for the ponies. Their desire to finally put the war to an end seemed to be giving them some sort of inner strength. Flare Star sent another griffon soldier to the ground with a swift kick to the neck. She wiped the sweat off her forehead.

“Whew, this heat is getting to me... Hey, Spitfire! When this mission is over, I’m ordering a first-class cold shower!”

“Sure, as long as you’ll come back alive,” Spitfire replied with a chuckle.

Many griffins were putting up fierce resistance. One of Rainbowshine’s wingmares was wounded in the left wing, making her flight unstable. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive were also under constant assaults, though their new companions helped them survive. It was at this moment that everypony heard Gale’s urgent voice:

“All allied forces, be advised! The enemy is preparing to launch a burst missile! All pegasi, increase your altitude to above 5000 feet!”

“Huh? A burst missile?” Thunderlane sounded confused.

When Sky Eye quickly explained the details, fear appeared on a majority of the ponies’ faces. Seeing everything from a save distance, Red Cyclone let out a diabolical smirk when he heard:

“Ready to launch, sir!”

“Good. Then launch it. Fire at will!” the crimson griffon ordered.

Gale got the reading of a huge missile leaving the fortress and slowly approaching the battlefield. Since the griffins were informed beforehand, they already flew above the dangerous radius. Meanwhile, the pegasi were also desperately trying to get away from the incoming explosion.

“Estimated time to impact: 20 seconds! Hurry! Climb! Go higher or you’ll be vaporized!” Gale exclaimed.

“Move it, everypony! Climb above 5000 feet! Go, go, go!” Spitfire hollered.

Unfortunately, despite the warning coming in the nick of time, some pegasi were unable to reach the designated height fast enough.

“This is Rainbow. We’ve just seen a big missile overhead! It’s coming in your direction! What the hay is going on?!” the blue pegasus was momentarily distracted.

But Gale didn’t had time to answer.

“5, 4, 3, 2, 1, impact!”

A great, expanding wall of fireballs materialized in the region’s airspace. Screams of ponies could be heard. Those caught in the explosions could only be seen by their silhouettes slowly vanishing into thin air... Though the forces led by the bearers of the Elements of Harmony were apparently unharmed, the same couldn’t be said about the pegasi.

When the effect of the burst missile died out, many of them were still in the air. Gale was shocked to see such a destructive weapon in action. He radioed Spitfire in, hoping every Wonderbolt was alive. They were. Spitfire then asked for any casualties among the squadrons.

“I’ve lost contact with Sorcerer 3...” Rainbowshine replied.

“Burner 2 is down,” Tornado Swirl reported.

“Racer 3 didn’t make it...” Overdrive said somberly.

“I can’t reach Phoenix 3 and 4,” Sunburst reported. “What on earth was that?! It looked like molten steel raining from the sky!”

Thunderlane was visibly shaken by the attack, as were his airmares.

“Watch out!” Sky Eye warned. “The power of the burst missiles is beyond anything you’ve ever imagined. Don’t be caught in its range or you’re toast!”

Now was a good time to reorganize the ranks. But the ponies had very little time to regroup, as the griffin soldiers used this chance to attack them. This test of power boosted their confidence. Gale confirmed that the missile came from Fortress Intimidation, and the operators inside of it were planning to launch another missile soon enough. He and Sky Eye were still analyzing the situation, trying to find a way to stop this new, dreadful weapon as quickly as possible. It probably had something to do with the generators inside the fortress, but they weren’t certain about that just yet.

“So that’s his plan,” Flare Star ascertained.

“He wants to use those ‘burst missiles’ to wipe us out, so his soldiers can kill the ground forces. That Red Cyclone is one cocky bastard!”

“Sweeper squadron, Lancer squadron, get back here ASAP,” Spitfire ordered to Quick Chaser and Thunder Flicker.

“The enemy is launching another offence.”

Garuda team was also asked to return and aid the pegasi. Talisman and Shamrock, as well as the flight leaders, understood the request of support. They believed that Mirage squadron would make it to Fortress Intimidation without much problems now that the anti-air turrets were out of commission. Besides, they still had Mobius’ support.

And yet, the blue stallion was focused on something else... Sky Eye noticed it as well.

“Mobius 1, bandit at nine o’clock... It’s him.”

Rainbow Dash knew what the operator meant. Mobius glimpsed on a lone griffon to his right. Without saying a word, he turned sharply in that direction, leaving Rainbow and the others. But before he left, he briefly smiled at the pegasi, as if he was wishing them good luck.

1332 hrs

When Echo noticed Mobius heading his way, he stopped in midair and waited for his rival to approach him. As soon as they were facing each other, the griffon let out a satisfied smile.

“There you are, Heavenly Ribbon... It’s time to put our battle to an end.”

“Do you really want to die fighting Mobius? Think this through.”

Sky Eye tried to reason with Echo once more, to no avail.

“I have no intentions of dying... not that easily, at least. I will fight him in the name of my fallen comrades... and those I’ve lost in Urusea... I didn’t knew you would actually appear in Equestria to begin with, but the only way I could face you was to pledge my loyalty to Red Cyclone. But no more!”

Echo pointed his talon at the blue stallion.

“If this is going to be my last battle, then I want it to be a great one. I know you can give me such battle, Mobius. Let us fight! Don’t disappoint me!”

“Seems like it’s unavoidable,” Sky Eye figured out.

“Mobius 1... engage!”

The silver-maned stallion now had his sight focused solely on Echo, squinting his eyes in concentration. The griffon remembered that expression well. For a brief moment both fighters were hovering in the clouds before they darted toward each other and clashed in a duel. Their moves were quick, decisive and fueled with desire to bring their opponent down. While Mobius had a superior reaction time, Echo was well-prepared for this fight. Dodging Mobius’ front punch, he attempted to strike him with his talons. But the stallion saw him move through and quickly avoided the attack, leaving Echo open for a counter. The ace flier delivered a powerful kick in the griffon’s chest. He recovered in a blink of an eye and retaliated by scratching Mobius’ face. His expression hadn’t changed, he still seemed focused.

Echo decided to attack Mobius from behind. Sky Eye wasn’t guiding him this time; he knew that this was a fight between the two aces. Using quick and daring maneuvers that would be impossible for a regular pegasus, Mobius managed to confuse Echo. He tried to follow up, but it was getting harder for him with every second.

One of these movements was especially difficult to execute, and it soon put the griffon in a very uneasy predicament. The blue pegasus started rolling effortlessly in midair, altering between a slight ascend and descend before suddenly halting his movement and facing Echo, who headed straight at him. Such sudden change of direction allowed Mobius to fly up. It was unexpected for the griffon. He flew directly below the pegasus. Mobius used this opportunity to finish the fight with a powerful and precise buck in the neck.

Echo knew it was over. He had lost. But his face was showing that he did not hold a grudge towards his opponent. There was a small smirk of gratitude on it.

“Good fight, Mobius... Heavenly Ribbon. You are indeed worthy of your title. Gult 4... I am coming... wait for me...”

Echo’s eyes closed as he fell to the ground. Mobius looked at it with a stoic expression, and, even though he wasn’t showing it, he also praised his opponent. Their case was finally solved.

“That’s a kill. Great job, Mobius 1. Let’s go back and see if the other pony forces still need our assistance,” Sky Eye’s voice sounded in his communicator.

Mobius responded with a nod and flied back to the main battlefield. For some reason, he felt regret for ending Echo’s life... but figured that it was the best solution for his restless soul.

1345 hrs

The Valley of Kings, Fortress Intimidation vicinity

While crossing the canyons, Rainbow Dash’s squadron was slowly nearing the Fortress. Firefly kept turning her head to the left and right every now and then, looking for her adversary. Yet Black Star was nowhere to be seen. Finally, when Lightning Bolt reported that the designated area was only 500 yards away, beyond the canyon in front of the pegasi, Rainbow ordered her wingmares to increase altitude and fly past it. Just as they emerged outside of the canyon, they stopped flying and gazed at the huge complex before them. It could appear as small from the air, but the main base was enormous.

“Holy turnips... Look at the size of that thing!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“There are a lot of anti-air turrets near the tunnels. If we’re supposed to destroy them, we’ll have to be in constant movement or they will get us in no-time”, Lightning Bolt warned.

“This isn’t Fortress Intimidation, this is Fortress Intolerance!” Medley ascertained, slightly upset. “Red Cyclone should’ve called it like that, it’s more fitting.”

“Maybe... but I’m afraid that name is already taken, Medley” Lightning Bolt remarked, unable to hold a giggle.Rainbow called out to her friends to focus on the mission. Enemy reinforcements could have been on their way, so the operation had to be carried out quickly. Firefly wasn’t listening. She noticed a single shape appearing to her right. It was Black Star, she was sure of that. He waited for her. Exchanging glances with Rainbow Dash, Firefly parted way with her companions.

“Sorry for leaving you like this, girls... but you have your fight and I have mine. If I’ll make out of this alive, I’ll help you in taking that base down”, she promised.

Others didn’t try to stop her. When Firefly disappeared from their sights, Rainbow tried to come up with a strategy on how to get through the tunnels. She called Gale and told him their location. He reminded them of the details. One of the pegasi had to fly through each of the three tunnels to destroy the generators located inside of them. As they were protected by several anti-air turrets, they could only have one attempt. If they were to slow down, even for a split second, the turrets would open fire at the flier and undoubtedly kill her.

Rainbow figured that this feat could only be performed by someone who was both strong and fast...

“OK, here’s the plan,” she said.

“Lightning, Derpy, Fluttershy. Each of you will come with me. Fly next to a tunnel. I want you to draw the turrets’ attention away from me while I’ll destroy the generators. You don’t have to destroy those turrets, just focus their fire on yourselves. Cloud Kicker, Medley! You’re going to keep an eye on any upcoming enemies. If they show up, try to hold them off.”

The plan was very risky, but the six pegasi were determined to end the conflict. They all agreed to Rainbow’s concept. None of them knew they were being watched by someone...

“So, you’ve made it, Rainbow Dash... Let’s see what you’re made of.”

Rainbow started flying at a fast pace toward the first tunnel, located to the right. Another burst missile was just launched at the main battlefield. Rainbow Dash asked Gale if destroying those generators would stop the missiles from being launched. He confirmed that after an analysis. That was more than enough reason for Rainbow to fly toward the generator. Lightning Bolt went ahead and flew dangerously close to the turrets which opened fire at her. Thanks to her good agility, she managed to avoid the bullets. Rainbow spotted the generator to the right of her.

As she increased speed, the blue pegasus pierced through the construction, rendering it useless. It exploded a few seconds later. Gale reported that the missile launching rate was reduced by 30%, allowing the pegasi in The Valley of Kings to get a short breather once they avoided the burst missile launched before. Rainbow was about to head for the second tunnel...

==========

1355 hrs

Black Star was already standing on the ground, his back turned and eyes closed. Firefly saw him from above and landed almost behind him. When the black-feathered griffon heard her hooves touching the ground, he opened his eyes and spoke slowly:

“So, you’ve come... having abandoned your comrades just to face me... How pitiful.”

He chuckled slightly before turning around and looking at the pink mare; her eyes were locked onto his.

“Fear not. I promise to give you a quick and painless death.”

“I haven’t abandoned them. Just because my friends aren’t here doesn’t mean I’m alone,” Firefly responded.

The griffon soldier seemed to be intrigued by Firefly’s words. He asked her to explain it to him, stating they have plenty of time. While the pink pegasus wasn’t certain what kind of game Black Star is playing with her, she said:

“During those last few months, I’ve come to realize how dear my friends are to me. Initially, I wanted to leave Canterlot and come here without telling anypony...”

“That would have been for the best,” Black Star interrupted.

“Friends are nothing but limitations that keep one from reaching its true potential.”

“No, that’s where you’re wrong! My friends are what gives me strength!” Firefly replied.

Her voice was growing in strength itself.

“Fighting together isn’t the only way they can help me. They can do it even if we’re apart. I understood that running away from my problems won’t make me feel better, so I told them everything. And whether I needed it or not, I’ve received their support! You can’t fool me! This time I’m not letting you go!”

“Then tell me... what makes you believe you can defeat me?” Black Star inquired.

“Because... I know that I’m not alone! That’s why I can fight by myself!” the blue-maned pony exclaimed.

A smirk has enlightened Black Star’s face. It seemed that this was the answer he was expecting from his opponent. Now they would finally see which of them was stronger.

“Interesting... Then fight you shall.”

He started flapping his big wings and flied upward, inviting Firefly to follow him.

“Come. Show me this strength you speak of. Let’s savor the moment.”

“Black Star... I’m not gonna let you have your way! You’re mine!”

For the first few seconds, they were both circling around in midair before they came closer. Firefly begun the fight with a series of rapid attacks, but they were mostly dodged by Black Star. He, too, had great reflexes. Compared to their previous fight over Gildsedale Plains, they were using their full strength, not backing down one bit. Noticing Firefly’s desire to defeat him, Black Star rushed toward her. They were exchanging blows for a while.

“Everyone fights for what they believe in,” Black Star remarked.

“For me, there is only one thing left worth fighting for in this world. And that is the future.”

He attempted to punch Firefly in the face, but she dodged it.

“Only by fighting you I can let my sins take reign.”

“What do you mean?” Firefly asked, trying to hit the griffon in the chest.

“I will tell you everything after this battle is over.”

Firefly had enough of Black Star’s word games. She was briefly engulfed by anger when she tried to punch him several times, but was unable to reach him. When Black Star got closer, he managed to parry one of Firefly’s attacks, leaving her wide open.

“Not bad at all... but still too weak!” he commented before using both of his legs to deliver a strong kick to Firefly’s stomach.

The pink pegasus grunted in pain. The intense force of the blow stunned her, made her gasp for breath. Black Star used the opportunity to knock her toward the ground. Before she crashed, Firefly managed to regain control of her wings, performed a backflip and landed on her hooves. Seconds later, she flew back up.

Upon reaching the griffon, Firefly stopped for a moment, breathing heavily. Black Star appeared to be having an upper hand in this confrontation.

“If it’s despair you seek... then I shall provide,” he said as he flied toward Firefly, trying to slash her with his talons.

But she was ready for him. She didn’t wanted it to end like this.

“The only thing I seek... is the end of this war!”

Firefly quickly flew upward, avoiding the attack. When Black Star turned around to chase after her, the pink pegasus suddenly stopped in midair and turned around, surprising her opponent. Before he could react, Firefly zipped through the air twice, dealing two powerful hits. Black Star tried to get a grip on the situation, but she didn’t give him the time.

Firefly charged at the griffon, punching him several times before uppercutting Black Star in the beak, leaving the opening she needed. As she dived down, she had the griffon on her hooves, flying downward at high speed.

“I’m taking you down, Black Star!” she yelled.

When she was getting closer to the ground, she used her rear legs to deliver a powerful finishing buck, sending the griffon soldier plummeting down. He hit the ground hard. The fight was over.

Panting heavily, Firefly landed close to Black Star. When the dust from the impact settled, he was still breathing. The griffon soldier smiled dimly and whispered:

“A masterful blow... It appears... you have won.”

“You took everything that I held dear away from me!” Firefly exclaimed.

“But that made me stronger. Strong enough to take you down. You’re finished!”

Her moment had finally come. At last, she would pay him back for all the pain he caused her. Firefly rose her left hoof, ready to crush Black Star’s skull... The feathered soldier closed his eyes, he wasn’t resisting... but something was holding Firefly back...

She heard some voices in her head. Firstly her own, telling her: “Do it now!”, but then it was muffled by two others...

“‘Tis understandable you seek revenge on their killer. But take heed, for defeating him may not take your pain away...”

“Don’t let the anger overwhelm you. Defeat Black Star, but don’t kill him. Doing so won’t solve your problems, it will only make them worse...”

Firefly shook her head and screamed.

After a moment, she put her hoof down on the solid ground, right next to Black Star’s face. Surprised, the griffon looked at Firefly, imagining she was fighting her inner desire to kill him. Firefly was looking at him angrily.

“... Why?” he asked.

“Are you doing this on purpose? Why didn’t you finished me?”

“Killing you would be meaningless. Our battle is finished. I have won. My mom and dad had been avenged,” Firefly replied with a trembling voice.

Black Star chuckled loudly.

“Is that right...? But is that even your own decision... Or something others told you?”

“I’ve been struggling with what Princess Luna and Derpy told me... but my parents never wanted me to be a killer. I won’t let the anger turn me into a monster like you or Red Cyclone!”

Firefly turned her sight away from Black Star. Another smirk appeared on his face as he slowly got up from the ground, setting his yellow eyes on Firefly.

“Very well, then. As promised, I will tell you everything you should know. Listen closely. This entire ordeal... It all started years before the war...”

Even though Firefly wasn’t looking at Black Star, she was listening. Not only because she was curious about the true reason behind his way of thinking, but also because she wanted to learn why he allowed all of this to happen. He and Red Cyclone were partners after all...

“I was an aspiring officer. There was a single reason for me to serve with the other griffins: I wanted to bring honor and respect to my country. But under King Lightbeak’s rule, we’ve enjoyed years of relative peace. No serious incidents took place. Some of our comrades weren’t pleased by this situation... That was when I met Red Cyclone. He was already a good talker back then. He told me that he had great plans for the future... they would make our race proud and powerful. I was deluded by his words...”

There was clearly a sound of regret in Black Star’s voice as he spoke. Firefly moved her head around a little, but still kept her sight away from him. The griffon carried on.

“One day, I heard a rumor about a mutiny being staged against The Griffin Kingdom. As its loyal soldier, I was more than eager to put a stop to it. Red Cyclone, who received an advancement in ranks, becoming commanding officer of one of the griffin groups, figured that I would be the one to handle it best. So I went to the specified location and there... I found two pegasi ponies...”

Firefly turned around rapidly. She was staring into Black Star’s eyes. It was clear to her he was talking about her parents.

“After a brief discussion with them, I knew that they had nothing to do with the mutiny. It was very likely that it was entirely a fraud. But my sense of responsibility toward my country was more important to me than anything else...”

“So... You KNEW they were innocent... and you still killed them!?” Firefly yelled.

“WHY!?”

“I had my orders...” Black Star started.

However, he was immediately interrupted by Firefly stomping her hoof against the ground. She seemed to be losing control over herself.

“I DON’T GIVE A FLYING FEATHER ABOUT YOUR ORDERS! YOU’RE PATHETIC!”

He understood her anger well and was prepared for the fact she could kill him. Black Star was looking quite miserable now, like someone feeling immense disgust toward himself. Firefly somehow managed to appease her emotions, though she was still looking upset. Black Star was allowed to continue his story:

“I had to kill them... otherwise I would be the one to be executed. In our community, obeying orders is the most important rule. Defying it is an equivalent to a death sentence,” he said morosely.

“As I was standing there, surrounded by the flames... I heard your voice. I saw your desire to fight... This was my chance. You were determined to avenge them, but you were brushed aside with ease. I knew that I did a horrible act by killing the ones you loved the most... And yet, I restrained myself from killing you. Can you guess why?”

“You said...”

Firefly tried to recall the memory of that day.

“You said that I need to become stronger if I was going to avenge them. So... you spared my life because you wanted to fight me again?”

“That’s not the only reason...” Black Star said.

“There was another. You see... Red Cyclone’s behaviour was very... combative. It was as if he was looking for an opportunity to start a conflict for whatever benefits he saw. Still, everything was fine; the incident with the mutiny was forgotten. But I could never forgive myself for that act. I despised myself... and I still do.”

Firefly didn’t knew what to think about this griffon before her. She looked bewildered. Black Star really was feeling sorry. He lowered his sight and spoke again after a moment of uneasy silence.

“Then... in September, last year... Red Cyclone took action. He killed our king and placed General Silverbeak on the pedestal as the new ruler. I helped him in this act. I kept telling myself that it was for the betterment of my country... In the end, I was just lying to myself. Not sooner after you and your team destroyed The Burning Talon, I became suspicious about Red Cyclone’s methods and behaviour even more. I thought that he might be planning something on a grand scale... but it would have been a terrifying thing. And I was right.”

“But...”

Firefly interrupted him again.

“But if you were suspecting him, why didn’t you tried to stop him? Don’t you understand? You could have prevented more bloodshed! Why the hay didn’t you lifted a talon to stop him?!”

“Because I wasn’t certain back then. My suspicions became true after he killed General Silverbeak. When I heard it from Edge, I had no doubt that he was going to put his plan into its final stage... But it was too late. I couldn’t foresee it fast enough. You must understand it, Firefly. If I had killed him at that time, it would cause a great havoc in the griffin community. It could lead into a civil war that would destroy our kind.”

“So instead you decided to play your role as his partner until the end, huh? Very convenient,” Firefly snorted in disgust.

“I know... I’m a coward,” the griffon was turning his head slowly.

“I won’t make any excuses... My part in the war has come to an end. But at least my goal has been achieved.”

This time Firefly had no idea what he meant.

“What’s your point?” she asked.

“You, Firefly. You and your companions from the Mirage squadron. However ironic it may seem to you, the fact I spared your life seven years ago ultimately led to you assembling those pegasi into a team that will put a stop to Red Cyclone’s atrocities.”

Firefly felt like her brain was distorting after the sentence she just heard. Did he really had it all planned that long ago? It sounded like an absurd... but... Black Star was right. If he had killed her back then, she wouldn’t be here now...

Then she remembered her friends, still fighting. She contacted Gale and asked him of her former wingmares whereabouts. Though he said the threat of the burst missiles was slowly decreasing, indicating that Rainbow Dash started putting the generators out of commission, there were many wounded, especially in the ground forces. When the pegasi were distracted by the missiles, the griffins were attacking earth ponies and unicorns from outside the explosions’ range, preventing the pegasi from helping them most of the time. Firefly suggested contacting Medical Corps to which the carmine pegasus responded positively. The pink mare then told the operator that she was heading toward Fortress Intimidation to assist Rainbow.

Firefly’s sight rested on Black Star again. She scowled, but didn’t seem to be willing to attack him. Despite her whole hatred for him, she was conceived that his gambit would still pay off. If only Red Cyclone’s base could be destroyed and his crimes exposed, the war would end... Black Star saw her trying to leave and chuckled again.

“You would pity me?”

“Call it what you want,” Firefly replied slowly.

She wasn’t looking at him.

“But this is my own decision. I won’t gain anything from killing you. Revenge has nothing to do with justice. Besides, there are more important things for me to do right now.”

“Then I guess I will have to live with shame for the rest of my life... So be it,” Black Star said.

He looked like he was searching for some words before he spoke again:

“...You’ve changed, Firefly. You are no longer a filly blinded by tears of hatred. You’ve grown... you’ve matured... you’ve become strong. Your parents... would be proud of you.”

Though the pegasus was slightly agitated by those words, she didn’t said a word. Then she heard Black Star again.

“Before you go, allow me to share one last secret with you.”

“What is it this time?”

“It’s about Fortress Intimidation... Surely you want to know how to destroy it without sacrificing yourself and your friends, right?”

Firefly turned to him, wondering what he meant by that last statement. He explained it in detail:

“The core of the fortress is located in its middle, deep below the surface. It’s the same room where the burst missiles are being kept. There are also many fuel tanks stored inside. One can get there using a long tunnel. It is locked down at the moment, but will be opened up when the three generators that power up the fortress’ defense systems are inactive. Said core also has a backup generator that serves as a safety device. If the core is destroyed normally, it will cause an instantaneous meltdown, leading to a chain of explosions from the burst missiles and fuel tanks. The resulting destruction of the fortress will wipe out anything within a range of one mile, including those outside. But, there is a way to prevent it. That backup generator must be destroyed before the core. Doing so will start a procedure that will result in the lockdown of Fortress Intimidation. All explosions will be concealed within the base and a countdown should give you enough time to escape.”

As Firefly was listening to Black Star, she noticed a bit of urgency in his voice. When he heard her speaking with Gale, he probably realized that Rainbow Dash was about to finish blowing up the generators... but she didn’t knew about the backup one.

“The location of this backup generator is known only to Red Cyclone and me, so your radars will not pick it up. But...”

Black Star tweaked in his communicator a little.

“This should fix the problem. I will send the necessary data to you, so the backup generator will appear on your radar as a bright dot. The easiest way to get to it is to fly into the same tunnel leading to the core, but from the opposite side of the fortress.”

“Why... Why are you helping me?” Firefly wondered.

“Unlike Red Cyclone, the thought of pony genocide has never once crossed my mind. My country was the only thing I was living for. I have betrayed it... You may despise me, but my eyes are finally opened. ...But there is no time for that now. Go! Get to Fortress Intimidation and destroy the backup generator if you want to save your friends.”

Firefly understood. She was about to spread her wings fly back to Rainbow Dash and the others, hoping to make it back in time. She seemed to be struggling with something inside her... then, she spoke with a shaky voice:

“I never thought I’d say this, but... thanks. Thanks for telling me everything.”

“Don’t mention it,” Black Star replied.

“This is the least I can do for you after all these lies... this pain I’ve brought upon you. If it’s not too much to ask... try to stay alive.”

“I WILL survive!” Firefly assured him before taking off.

Black Star remained alone, seeing the pink pegasus flying away. He thought to himself aloud:

“I only wish for my country to survive. I have done many horrible deeds... but perhaps, there still a chance to atone for my mistakes...”

==========

1418 hrs

Fortress Intimidation

While the main battle slowly shifted from The Valley of Kings to Fortress Intimidation due to griffins being ordered by Red Cyclone to prevent the Mirage squadron from destroying the generators any further, the pegasi and the ground forces of Equestria gave chase after them. Rainbow Dash easily managed to bring the second generator down and was just about to go for the third and last one, when she heard Cloud Kicker’s voice:

“Check your radars! Something’s coming from the south! I got bandits all over the place!”

“Great... Here comes the crowd,” Rainbow remarked. “Can you handle them?”

“No way!” Medley exclaimed. “There’s too many of them. Looks like Red Cyclone called for reinforcements!”

“Then hold them off as long as you can, until our forces arrive. I’m going to the left tunnel to destroy the last generator!” Rainbow intimated.

“Rainbow, don’t!” Lightning Bolt called out to her. “That tunnel is completely surrounded by anti-air turrets! You can’t go there without support, you’ll be torn apart!”

Knowing her friend was right, Rainbow stopped for a moment to think about the best possible plan. She hoped that Fluttershy would aid her, but she seemed to be scared again for some reason. Red Cyclone’s reinforcements and Zeakros’ Northwind squadron made it to the area.

“Seems like they’re hesitating,” the orange-feathered soldier reported to Red Cyclone.

“Good,“ the griffin leader’s voice sounded.

“It’s time to get rid of them. Chief operator, what’s your status?”

“Though the second generator is down, we still have enough power to launch several more burst missiles.”

“Listen up!” Red Cyclone said with a demanding tone.

“Before you launch it, I want you to redirect the course of the missile. Make it detonate above Fortress Intimidation! You will be safe inside while those wretched pegasi will be blown out of the sky!”

Red Cyclone roared with laughter. But Zeakros didn’t saw anything funny in this situation.

“Wait... If the missile will detonate above the fortress, some of our soldiers will be caught in the explosions!”

“Like I care!”

“What... did you just say?” Zeakros was stunned to hear that.

“So what if a few griffins need to be sacrificed?” Red Cyclone asked casually.

“If it will mean the destruction of those pathetic ponies, then I’ll take that chance! Besides, they’re nothing but expendable pawns to me. I can replace them easily.”

Something in those words made Zeakros shiver. He felt the dread and seriousness behind them, but was unable to comprehend that order.

“You can’t be serious, Red Cyclone,” he said. “You can’t possibly...”

“What’s this? Are you questioning my authority, Northwind 1?” Red Cyclone interrupted him angrily.

“I don’t need you or your unit anyway. Chief operator, you heard my order, didn’t you? Execute it!”

There was a moment of silence on the other end, but the griffin operator acknowledged what Red Cyclone said and initiated the launch sequence, noting that it will take about two minutes for the missile to be launched. It would be detonated soon afterwards.

Rainbow Dash was visibly shocked when Gale patched this intercepted conversation to her.

“I don’t believe it! He’s willing to sacrifice his own soldiers? How low can he go?!”

In a matter of seconds, the remaining pegasi forces, with the Wonderbolts as the leading unit, made it to the fortress to keep the griffins occupied. Time was running short. Gale contacted Rainbow again.

“There are two minutes left to launch! You must destroy the third generator. This will cut off the power for the fortress and prevent the launch. Otherwise...”

“I know!” Rainbow turned to Fluttershy, asking her for help.

She was breathing quickly.

“Come on, Fluttershy, get a hold of yourself!” the blue pegasus shouted.

“I need your help! If we don’t take out that generator, we’re all going to die! Everything we’ve done so far will be in vain! Red Cyclone will win! You don’t want this to happen, do you?”

This was the straw that made Fluttershy determined again.

“No... I won’t let him get away with his crimes!”

She then started flying toward the outside of the tunnel to draw the turrets’ fire. The remaining pegasi from Mirage squadron offered their support as well. Spitfire and the others assured they would do their best to ward the griffins off as long as it will take, putting their trust in Rainbow’s skills. Seeing the pegasi advance, Red Cyclone grew impatient, demanding to stop them at all costs. Lightning Bolt helped Fluttershy by destroying some turrets with her Shining Spark while Derpy, Medley and Cloud Kicker made some griffins follow them, leading to several feathered soldiers being gunned down by their own artillery fire.

Rainbow Dash entered the tunnel, accelerating further to reach the generator. She glimpsed to the right, seeing her companions fighting the griffins off, but also going away from the turrets’ range... The chief operator inside the fortress announced only thirty seconds to fire the missile... Making an instinctual move, Rainbow darted toward her target and increased speed even further... In a bright flash, she pierced through the steel construction which exploded moments later. Rainbow flew out of the tunnel, safe and sound. All remaining turrets ceased fire.

“Gale, this is Mirage 1. Target has been destroyed.”

“Mirage 1, we confirm. The generators are out of commision. Looks like the threat of those burst missiles is over now,” Gale responded with a relieved voice.

The chief griffon operator couldn’t take the risk of missile’s detonation inside the base.

“Power is out! We can’t continue the sequence! Abort launch!”, he ordered.

“ARRGH! Damned Mirage!” Red Cyclone roared. “That’s it! Carry on the fight!”

But it wasn’t over yet...

Medley suddenly noticed steel doors—an entrance to another tunnel—opening in the middle section. Gale inspected it along with Sky Eye.

“Looks like this tunnel leads inside the fortress, to its core section. It’s quite long and barely big enough for
a pegasus to fly in... We have only one chance.”

Rainbow Dash knew what must be done. She took two deep breaths before turning to and asking her friends:

“I’m going in, girls. Don’t worry, I will be back. Just don’t get killed.”

The five other pegasi followed their sights after Rainbow, wishing her good luck. But a sinister voice behind them caused a cold shiver to run across the fliers’ backs.

“Checkmate, Mirage.”

It was Red Cyclone, in the flesh, wearing a bright vest with a symbol of a red tornado on it. With him, there were twenty of his most loyal soldiers. He suddenly rushed forward, passing by everyone, the surprised pegasi and his troops alike.

“Kill those cursed pegasi,” he ordered them. “but that rainbow-maned one is mine!”

Seconds later, he entered the same tunnel Rainbow Dash flew into to pursue her. While Rainbow’s squadron was ready to fight and even give their lives, they were left on their own, virtually without a leader... Fluttershy attempted to delay the battle by suddenly adjusting her communicator and using a broadband frequency to contact the feathered soldiers. Her voice was eminently louder than usual.

“Do we really have to fight? You saw Red Cyclone’s cruelty and how he treats you! He wouldn’t hesitate to kill you. Do you really want to serve under him? There must be another way to end this conflict... You are not mindless animals! You are proud, noble warriors! Haven’t we seen enough death?”

Some of the griffins, especially those who were fighting from the beginning, like Jet and Zeakros, looked at each other, pondering over Fluttershy’s words. Red Cyclone’s last statements were especially disturbing, and there was some truth to what they heard... Many were actually tired of the war and uncertainty of tomorrow...

Zeakros then heard a familiar, slightly monotone voice, speaking in his headphones.

“I believe that filly is right... Northwind 1, there is something you should know...”

Another observant, hidden among the clouds, was focusing on something else...

“This is the moment of truth, Dash... Don’t let me down...”

1425 hrs

When Rainbow entered the facility through the tunnel, the light slowly started to die out as she was going deeper. Stopping for a moment to allow her eyes to adjust, she noticed the tunnel actually had some lights installed on its walls. The tunnel wasn’t completely straight; it was quite winding with a few smaller ones branching off to left and right. They were all leading in the same direction, though. Additionally, there was very little place for maneuvering, so Rainbow had to slow down to fly through it safely.

Then she heard a voice echoing behind her:

“I’m impressed you’ve made it this far... Unfortunately, this is as far as you go!”

Rainbow Dash stopped in midair and turned around. She saw the griffon soldier coming closer.

“I was wondering when you would show up. Red Cyclone, I presume?”

“I’ve made a mistake by underestimating you... Who would have thought that a small group of pegasi could cause so much damage...”

The griffon made an impression as if he was talking to himself, ignoring Rainbow’s presence.

“Oh well, it doesn’t really matter. You are all going to die here anyway. Take a good look at your grave...”

“Sorry, I die hard,” Rainbow replied with confidence.

“Now I’m gonna pay you back for starting this whole war. This isn't your day.”

“Hah! As I thought—a fool to the end,” Red Cyclone laughed.

“You fell straight into my trap. Now the only way for you to leave is to die in a blaze of my glory.”

“What the hay are you talking about?”

“You don’t know anything... HA HA HA! So much the better. If you destroy the core generator located in the central section of this fortress, you’ll cause an explosion powerful enough to destroy anything within a mile! Don’t tell me you didn’t know that?”

Rainbow gaped her mouth. This sudden revelation made her feel like she was falling into an icy abyss. He's bluffing... he must be bluffing, she thought. Red Cyclone watched her reaction with a derisive expression.

“That look on your face... priceless. Well, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and destroy the main generator! That’s what you came here to do, right?”

He tried to provoke Rainbow, but she was still hesitating. He laughed again.

“Well, if you’re not going to do it, then I will!”

“WHAT?!” Rainbow Dash yelled.

“But... if you’ll do that, you’ll die as well.”

“You’re forgetting one thing: besides me, there is still Black Star. I’m sure he will be more than willing to take over my position. He’s the only capable soldier to fit in. He’s probably already finishing your friend off...” Red Cyclone added maliciously.

“You and your squadron have been nothing but a nuisance to me through the whole war, but it all ends here! After conquering the remaining parts of Equestria, my soldiers will expand our territories over the whole world! This will be a new beginning! The era of the mighty Griffin Empire will begin!”

Rainbow Dash couldn’t believe those words. He sounded like a complete lunatic. She had no doubt now; he must be stopped and she must leave this facility alive.

“You know what? I’ve met many psychos and weirdos in my life, but you... You are downright insane!” she exclaimed in disgust.

“That’s your opinion,” Red Cyclone shrugged, completely unmoved.

“I’m not gonna let you get to the core, no matter what! I’ll stop you and end this war!”

“So you want a race, is that it? That’s fine with me. Come! Hurry up and catch me!”

Roaring with laughter, Red Cyclone darted forward, leaving Rainbow behind.

She initially tried to reach her friends outside the fortress and inform them of the possible threat, but the jamming was too severe. Rainbow couldn’t contact anyone on the outside. She looked at her hooves and started to ponder on what she just heard from her foe.

Could it be possible? Was that supposed to be the end? There were still many things Rainbow wanted to do in her life... and there was a dream she wanted to hopefully realize one day...

But she was also a soldier. A bearer of the Element of Harmony. She was prepared to put her live on the line if it meant saving Equestria and her friends. Rainbow made her choice.

“Face forward... I can’t go back,” she said to herself quietly before she started flapping her wings to chase after Red Cyclone.

Rainbow yelled his name out, catching his attention.

“Come, come! This will be a true death race!” he sounded excited.

Rainbow paid no attention to him, she was murmuring to herself with her communicator turned on, even though she knew no pony could hear her.

“Girls... Firefly... I wish I could tell you... but I guess this is goodbye. At least I hope you’re still alive...”

“Of course I’m alive! And don’t you dare give up or die on me!”

“Firefly!” Rainbow cried, hearing the voice of her friend. "Are... are you...?”

“I’ve entered the fortress from the other side, and I’m heading for the backup unit! When it’s destroyed, the core can be taken down without much risk! But I need your help! Try to slow Red Cyclone down for as long as you can so I can get to the central section before him!”

“But...” Rainbow was baffled. “But how do you know...?”

“Let’s just say I learned about it from a very reliable source... We’ll talk about it later! Rainbow, I know that I’m not the squadron leader anymore, but... please, do as I say. Trust me!”

Rainbow was silent for a few seconds, but Red Cyclone’s cackle filled her anger. She increased her speed to catch up to him.

“I trust you, Firefly. With all my heart. I don’t care if you’re a leader or not! We’ve come too far to lose now! Let’s just wrap this up and go home... all of us!”

“Yeah... Let’s get them!” Firefly responded before she switched to broadband frequency.

Her voice was trembling with emotions.

“To all griffins still being inside the fortress! If you don’t want to get your butts roasted, I suggest you leave now! This place is history! Once the backup generator is destroyed, the core one will be blown up moments later! So... GET OUTTA HERE!”

Red Cyclone was stunned to hear that voice. Firefly’s presence would mean that Black Star was defeated. He was never expecting the events to turn out like this.

“What? You’re alive?! But... how do you know about the backup unit? Did Black Star told you?! No... he couldn’t... That’s not possible...” he was mumbling angrily.

“Too bad, Red Cyclone! Your friend told me everything!” Firefly exclaimed.

“I also know that you forced him to commit every single inglorious act he did. You’re so going to get it!”

“DAMNIT! I’m surrounded by cowards and traitors!” Red Cyclone roared furiously, accelerating even more.

“No matter! I’m not through yet! You’re going to fly straight into your deaths!”

“Think again!”

Rainbow Dash approached Red Cyclone from the side and smashed him in the head, making him slide to the side of the tunnel. The griffon grazed his left wing on the metallic construction of the tunnel, slowing down.

Trying to shake Rainbow off, he returned the attack. Dash persisted in her assault; the two were exchanging blows for a while. Firefly soon reported that she reached the central section and managed to take down the backup generator. A few seconds later, Rainbow Dash and Red Cyclone flew into the central section where the fuel tanks and burst missiles were stored. Firefly flew straight at the griffon and smashed him in the head. Rainbow was now in a clear position to attack the core.

“Your ambitions are coming to an end, Red Cyclone! Say goodbye!”

With a powerful uppercut, Rainbow hit the griffon in the beak, making him fall down. She turned toward the core immediately and kicked it together with Firefly. Sparks started flying around from the construction, it became unstable. The two pegasi flew back a bit due to impact force when the generator exploded. Not a few moments later a computer-generated voice sounded loudly:

“FORTRESS REACTOR CORE DAMAGED! ESTIMATED TIME TO DETONATION... THREE MINUTES!”

“Come on, Rainbow,” Firefly hailed.

“Let’s get the hay outta here! Follow me!”

Rainbow nodded and flied after her. They didn’t noticed Red Cyclone getting up from the ground until they heard his roar of anger.

“DAMNED PEGASI! You’re not going anywhere!”

“Geez, that guy doesn’t know when to quit,” Rainbow commented.

“Well, he’s always been pretty serious, heh. Forget about him, just keep going...! WHOA!”

The shutter leading into the central section had suddenly closed behind the two mares. Red Cyclone was trapped inside. They stopped and heard him banging on the door, screaming.

“What just happened?” Rainbow asked.

The entire fortress started to shake violently. The facility was collapsing!

“No time for that! Come on, we gotta get out!” Firefly reiterated, urging Rainbow Dash to follow her.

Red Cyclone kept yelling to release him, turning his attention to the room where the griffin operators responsible for the missiles were supposed to be. But the room was deserted. They had already fled. The crimson griffon was about to fly into rage. That was when he suddenly heard a voice in his communicator. The jamming coming from the core was already turned off.

It was Zeakros.

“Red Cyclone. Your reign is over.”

“Northwind 1, what is the meaning of this?!” he said with a demanding tone. “Did you closed the shutter? What do you think you’re doing!?”

“Black Star told me everything,” Zeakros replied in a low voice. “We were fools for obeying your orders until now...”

“Don’t be ridiculous!” Red Cyclone yelled. “You’re being deluded by those ponies! Bring the rescue unit with yourself, the fortress is about to explode!”

“I’m not obliged to follow your orders anymore. I have already ordered all soldiers to stand down and cease fighting,” Zeakros said calmly.

“TRAITOR!”

“And who are you? You have betrayed the very principles of our country. What did you gained from discarding your honor? I will tell you. Your reward is nothing but death!”

Zeakros’ voice was building up with every word he spoke.

“For numerous crimes you have caused, for betraying your country and your soldiers... Red Cyclone! As the chief commanding officer of the Griffin Army, I hereby sentence you to death! A fitting end to a monster such as yourself... You will die in the very same monstrosity you have created. Farewell!”

Zeakros cut the link. Red Cyclone started smashing the shutter again, screaming loudly.

“NO! No... This... This cannot be! NO! I... so... so close... I was SO CLOOOOOSE—!!!”

Red Cyclone’s scream, along with himself, had been consumed by the explosions that were caused by the overheated fuel tanks. They soon spread to the missiles, starting the chain reaction aforementioned by Black Star.

There wasn’t much time left.

“FORTRESS REACTOR CORE DAMAGED! ESTIMATED TIME TO DETONATION... TWO MINUTES!”

Rainbow Dash and Firefly were still inside. Firefly kept yelling to Rainbow to follow her, trying to shout over the constant rumbles. They both heard the expanding explosions behind. Dodging obstructions to the sides and trying not to crash while doing so, the two pegasi were flapping their wings at a very fast rate. Rainbow was trailing behind Firefly the whole time, but fairly close, instantly reacting to any ascent or descent. Tremors were getting larger.

Suddenly, a large wall of fire appeared before the pegasi. Increasing their speed and covering faces with their hooves, Rainbow Dash and Firefly broke through it. That small gust of air around them protected the two mares from the fire. They heard the electronic voice again, it was counting down the final minute to detonation. Firefly spoke to Rainbow:

“You know... this is probably the most intense flight I’ve had in my life! Hahaha!”

“Yeah... but we gotta make it out of here, so we can live to tell others about it!” Rainbow reminded her.

“Let’s speed up! Now it’s only a straight way out! There’s a light in front of us!”

“I hope it’s not a passage to the other world!” Rainbow snickered with laughter.

Firefly accompanied her. The two pegasi were thrilled, being used to danger. Thirty seconds... Firefly was now flying over Rainbow Dash. She was leaving a small trail of rainbow behind her due to the immense speed. Firefly’s trail was letting out small sparks of electricity. Both had smiles on their faces. Fifteen seconds...

Outside, the entire fighting stopped. Everyone, ponies and griffins, were anxiously waiting for Rainbow and Firefly to come out. Just then, two small silhouettes flew upward at a great speed.

“Yaaaahooo!”

Seconds later, a huge wave of fire streamed from the opening. The fortress was shaken by numerous orange-yellow explosions. It then went offline. Lightning Bolt exclaimed:

“T-Target destroyed! There she is! We’ve got Mirage 1 on radar!”

“Is she all right?” Gale asked.

“Yes! Yes, she’s fine! I’ve got visual on her right now! And... Firefly! Firefly is there, too!”

Initially frozen, all those in the air and on the ground slowly started cheering louder and louder until they all finally burst into an explosive delight. Griffins and ponies alike were roaring with joy, but none of them were cheering as loud as the pegasi from the Mirage squadron and Rainbow’s best friends.

“Rainbow! You’re the best!” Medley screamed.

“Way to go, Rainbow! Firefly!” Cloud Kicker made an air flip from exhilaration.

“Wow! That was just...I can’t even describe it! Just unbelievable!” Lightning Bolt was nearly speechless.

“Rainbow! She did it! WOOO!” Fluttershy and Derpy were dancing together.

“That was beyond awesome! You rock, Dashie!” Pinkie Pie yelled at the top of her lungs.

“YEEHAAW! Way to go, sugarcube!” Applejack cheered.

“That’s going out in style!” Rarity commented.

“Alright, Rainbow Dash! Great job!” Twilight kept jumping in place.

Other pegasi, unicorns and earth ponies were either clapping their hooves, giving each other high-wings or stomping the ground. Even the griffins started applauding for the two ponies. Firefly and Rainbow Dash heard everything while floating in the air, panting from the great exertion they’ve just went under. But the looks on their faces were that of delight as well.

“Rainbow, you hear them?” Firefly asked.

“They’re cheering for you. You’ve done it!”

But Rainbow shook her head and flew a little closer.

“No, Firefly. We've done it. We did it together... as a team.”

“Heh... I guess we did. Good job, Mirage 1... Rainbow Dash!”

“Thanks, Firefly. You were great, too.”

Both pegasi clashed their hooves together and embraced. They were clearly relieved. Finally... This destructive conflict has ended.

==========

1458 hrs

Gale and Sky Eye were observing everything on the monitors. The situation of the pony units wasn’t all that bad, even though many of them were wounded. Firebolt complained about her back scratched up. A lot of others ended up with mild scars. Thanks to Mobius and Garuda team’s support, as well as Fluttershy’s delay, greater bloodshed was avoided. The carmine pegasus looked at his fellow operator.

“Hey, Sky Eye... What do you think? Did we win the war?”

“I don’t know,” the white pegasus answered.

“History determines the winner. But... there’s one thing I can say for certain. You guys have some real heroes here, in Equestria.”

He smiled, feeling like he said something similar once before. Gale spoke with a gruff voice.

“But... you know, now that I think about it... I can’t help, but feel sorry for the griffin soldiers. They were fighting for the wrong cause... failed to see they were nothing but unwitting pawns in Red Cyclone’s malicious game...”

“Well, it’s game over for him,” Sky Eye remarked with a satisfaction.

Gale nodded. He believed this entire nightmare had finally came to a close. Adjusting his frequency, Gale contacted the remaining pegasi, unicorns and earth ponies. Out of over eighty units, there were still more than sixty remaining. Though the price was high, the battle ended.

“Ponies of Equestria. Pegasi, unicorns and earth ponies. Congratulations on a job well done. It’s over. The war is over. It wouldn’t be possible without you, Mirage squadron. We are all in your debt. Everypony, head back... back to Equestria.”

“Hold on... Wait!”

“What’s wrong, Sky Eye?”, Gale asked.

“That’s strange... I’ve got a single contact on radar... It’s coming fast.”

“Do we have an ID?”

“Negative... but something tells me it’s not friendly... and it’s heading toward Rainbow and Firefly.”

Sky Eye turned his attention to both mares.

“Warning! Unknown contact approaching at high speed! Break! Break!”

Rainbow Dash was surprised to hear the call. But Firefly was vigilant. Without a second thought, she pushed the blue pegasus away.

“WATCH OUT, RAINBOW DASH...!”

Barely a split second later, Firefly was struck by the unknown attacker. She squeaked “Oh...”, almost like it surprised her and started falling down, unable to regain altitude...

“FIREFLYYY!!!”

Rainbow’s ear-splitting scream ripped through the sky. Everyone noticed what had happened, but the shock was too severe for anyone to move and prevent the pegasus’ fall. Firefly crashed onto a nearby peak, hitting it with her right wing before tumbling down. She lied motionlessly on the ground.

“Flash? Flash! Respond! Firefly, come in! Come in! Blast! What happened there?”

Gale and Sky Eye tried to figure out who was responsible for the attack, but it happened too fast for them to register anything that would help identify the assailant. Who could have been fast enough to deal such a powerful, almost invisible blow... to knock Firefly down with just a single hit...?

The increasing panic did not allowed Rainbow to gather her thoughts.

“Firefly... no... Please, don’t be dead... Don’t be dead... If she’s dead, it’s my fault...”

She was trying to lower her altitude and see if Firefly was alright from the fall, but then...

“Stupid dweeb! Serves her right for getting in my way!”

That voice... it sounded so familiar. A cocky and pugnacious squawk. Rainbow slowly turned around, and then... she saw the one who attacked Firefly. A half eagle-lion creature, only slightly bigger than the blue pegasus. The afternoon sun that was piercing through dark clouds shed some light on it.

It was one individual Rainbow hoped to never meet again... even though she knew that she would eventually run into her. Rainbow focused her sight on the one who hurt her friend, squinting her eyes in anger. Even though the war had finally came to an end, the most important fight was still ahead of Dash... That one well-known individual came back, seeking trouble.

Nothing else mattered to Rainbow now. Her face turned furious. She saw the attacker baring its teeth and letting out a self-confident smirk.

“So, have you found your reason to fight yet? Dash...”

“...You.”

Chapter 20: The Final Decision

In the end, a tale of one becomes a tale of two.
Which of them has the right to call itself an ace?
Amidst the cloudy skies, a link from past to future.
Without beginning or end, the ring stretches into the infinite.

Chapter 20
“The Final Decision”

May 11th, 2019
1510 hrs
Fortress Intimidation airspace

“Hey Dash, it’s been a while,” Gilda remarked.

The blue pegasus had her eyes locked onto the griffon soldier. Everything else lost importance.

“Why did you do that?!” Rainbow asked angrily.

“Oh, you mean her? Don’t worry, I didn’t killed her. I simply removed the last obstacle. Now you and I can fight without any hindrances.”

Rainbow had no idea what Gilda meant at first, but it all slowly started to make sense for her. She returned to confront her in the final battle, to determine which of them was better...

Rainbow looked down. Firefly was still lying on the ground. The shock among the other pegasi from the Mirage squadron had passed. Medley and Fluttershy instantly recognized Gilda. But just as they were getting closer to Rainbow, she turned to them. Her expression was dogged.

“Stay out of this, girls. This griffon is mine alone.”

“No, Rainbow, we’re gonna help you,” Medley replied, though her voice was shaky.

She still remembered how Gilda broke her wings.

“You can’t help me this time. Go check on Firefly instead,” Rainbow insisted.

Other ponies and griffins still hovering in the sky seemed confused. This sudden intrusion came as a great surprise. Yet Zeakros had a feeling that there was no point in getting between Rainbow Dash and Gilda. He ordered all of his soldiers to descend to the ground. Some looked at him with disbelief, but complied. Spitfire also told the pegasi to get down. Medley was still troubled, so the fiery-maned mare called her:

“Hey, Kid, do you trust Rainbow?”

“Of course I trust her!”

“Then let her do her job. This is one fight she can’t avoid.”

Medley and the rest of the squadron obeyed. They slowly landed around Firefly to check on her condition. She was breathing weakly. Lightning Bolt and Derpy helped her stand up.

“Flash, are you okay?” the grey pegasus asked.

“Uhhh... I’ve been better... ” Firefly hissed in pain. “ARGH! My left wing...”

“I think it’s broken due to impact” Lightning ascertained.

“Where’s that sleaze who attacked me... OUCH!” Firefly tried to flap her wings, but the pain was overwhelming.

Fluttershy pleaded her to stay calm, informing her that Rainbow was about to face Gilda. Firefly looked up and noticed them in the air above. Several dark clouds started to gather on the sky. Ponies and griffins alike were staring at the two figures.

Gilda welcomed Rainbow’s decision to fight her alone with another smirk.

“So, you actually did learned a lesson or two. Now it’s just you and me. No one to get in our way.”

“What kind of game are you playing, G?” Rainbow inquired. “There’s no point in us fighting anymore. The war is over!”

“Hah! That’s what you say!” Gilda replied with a snicker. “And I could care less who started this war, what was the cause, how many died and who won! I don’t care! The only thing that matters to me is you, Dash!”

“So that’s how you wanna solve it? A fight to the finish?”

“Would you have it any other way?”

“...No, I guess not.”

At this point, both of them were looking at each other, as if they were examining something. They still waited for the moment to begin the fight.

“Say, Dash, you probably wonder where I’ve been?” Gilda asked. “I’ll tell you. I was watching you. I’ve been observing you this whole time.”

“What? So... back then, in Ponyville... that was just...?”

“Correct. That was just a test. I wanted to see how much better you’d become. While your attitude disappointed me, you had what it takes to be a worthy opponent. It’s always been like this. We’ve competed with each other often. I was watching you even now as you were destroying Fortress Intimidation. And I gotta admit, that was some pretty smooth flying. But there was one problem. Your friends. They were helping you. A true ace doesn’t need support at all."

Gilda paused for a moment before she continued.

"...Do you know why this place is called The Valley of Kings? Because these mountains are also tombs for great rulers of the griffin nation. And some of them are said to be a resting place for the greatest aces in our history.”

“What are you getting at?” Rainbow Dash wondered.

“After I left, I was training. Training to be a better warrior, to be the best flier of them all. One of the reasons I came to Ponyville back then was so I could test my skills in a fight against you. Unfortunately, your friends were in the way. And you were also looking like you were holding back. So I figured out the solution to my problem: I will do whatever it takes to make you fight me alone. Now that they are all out of the way, I want you to show me your very best. Prove to me that you are not like the rest of those dweeby ponies! But, in the end, I will earn my victory!”

“Are you done?” Rainbow suddenly exclaimed, surprising Gilda.

Taking a glimpse down again, Rainbow noticed Firefly being treated to her injury. Spitfire was also looking at the blue flier. Rainbow remembered what she told her before turning to Gilda again.

Don’t hesitate.

“If the only reason you came here is to fight me, then put ’em up! Time’s a wastin’!”

Several raindrops started falling down. Neither Gilda nor Rainbow were paying any attention to them. Smirk returned to the griffon’s face.

“Here comes the rain... I know you can feel it, Dash. There is a warrior inside you. I’ve been waiting for this! Come on, Rainbow Dash! Let’s show everyone else how it’s done!”

Gilda spread her wings, ready to fight.

“Gilda! I’m gonna knock some sense into you!” Rainbow shouted.

Gilda and Rainbow Dash darted toward each other and started exchanging blows. The rain, as well as the battle between old friends, started for good.

“Those who survive a long time on the battlefield start to think they’re invincible. I bet you do, too, Dash,” Gilda said slowly, as she dodged Rainbow’s punch.

She remained silent and focused on the duel.

Twirling in midair, both fighters tried to find an opening for a punch, kick or headbutt. When Gilda parried Dash’s attack, the blue pegasus quickly dodged to the side to avoid her blow. Both of them were in their own kingdom. Rainbow tried to hit Gilda in the face, but she saw through her movements. In the last second, Dash managed to soar upward, making Gilda miss.

Rainbow attempted to hit her again, but Gilda easily avoided the punch. They begun circling around, paying close attention to each other and trying to react properly. Rainbow started gliding back and forth in an attempt to confuse Gilda. As she tried to hit her, Dash made a quick backflip in the air.

Those on the ground watched in awe.

“Look at those moves! This must be the deadliest dance possible!” Rarity exclaimed.

“How can Rainbow still fight like that?” Overdrive wondered. “Isn’t she supposed to be exhausted from the mission?”

“That rain is certainly refreshing,” Flare Star pointed out, grabbing a few drops on her tongue.

“I bet Rainbow is feeling at home right now.”

“If anypony can beat Gilda, it’s Rainbow,” Applejack said confidently.

“That’s the Mirage flight leader right there. Watch and learn,” Rainbowshine added.

Only Fluttershy seemed to be worried.

“Rainbow... whatever you do, please... watch yourself. Don’t get killed.”

Pinkie Pie didn’t appeared to be surprised by any of this one bit. Yet she was still jumping in place. When Twilight asked her why she is so excited, she replied:

“Come on, it’s a fight between the aces! Whenever it happens at the end, it’s always awesome! Get her, Dashie! Make her feel sorry!” she yelled into the sky.

==========

But neither Rainbow Dash nor Gilda could hear her. They turned their communicators off. Now the whole sky was theirs only. Rainbow was still questioning Gilda’s motives to fight her. When they met last time, she wasn’t as honorable as she was being now. Even if that last encounter was just a test, Rainbow needed an answer.

“Gilda! Tell me, why are you doing this? We used to be friends!”

“That’s right, Dash! We used to be! But you chose those ponies instead of me!”

“Just because I have new friends doesn’t mean we are not!” Rainbow tried to explain.

“Enough! That issue is already dealt with! Now I only want you to show me what you can really do! Don’t hold back, Dash, because I certainly won’t!”

With these words, Gilda rushed toward Rainbow. She went ahead as well, and it seemed they were going on a head-on collision. But Gilda rolled to the left, passing by Rainbow with a grin on her face. They still observed each other in the corner of their eyes. Looking for an opportunity to attack her again, Gilda flew right next to Dash. The blue flier remembered the maneuver she was practicing with Firefly, the “pressure flight.” It allowed her to knock Gilda aside and deliver an additional punch that caused the griffon to stagger briefly. But she quickly regained her senses, flying straight at Dash once again.

This time, both fighters clashed with each other at minimal distance. After a brief power struggle, Gilda managed to gain the upper hand, slashing Dash across the chest with her talons. Rainbow grunted in pain, but immediately retaliated with a swift punch to Gilda’s beak. The griffon dealt another blow, this time in the stomach. Dash answered with an uppercut. Then, they tried to punch each other and their attacks hit at the same time. Both of them flew away due to impact, but managed to recover quickly.

The rain started to pour. Rainbow and Gilda were hovering above the spectators, trying to catch a breath. Rainbow’s wound wasn’t very serious, as she was partially protected by her vest. Gilda had a couple of bruises on her face. Ponies and griffins on the ground were impressed by such a quick display of daring movements. They waited in anticipation for the fight to continue. Meanwhile, Zeakros noticed something unusual.

“Look at them. They may seem like mortal enemies in our eyes, but I think they still haven’t forgotten those moments they shared together in the past.”

Indeed, smirks were now present on both fighters’ faces. Their battle resumed.

“Not bad, Dash. You’ve improved,” Gilda praised the pegasus.

“You’re not bad yourself,” Dash replied.

“It’s still not too late, Dash. You should reconsider my offer. Can you not feel this bond between us? You and I are opposite sides of the same coin. We are naturally born warriors.”

“Maybe. But even if there is a resemblance between us, we’ll never face the same direction. At least not like this, G!”

Gilda shook her head while avoiding Rainbow’s punch.

“Why do you refuse to join me? We are much better than the others!”

“There is no point for me to follow you!” Rainbow shouted, dodging Gilda’s headbutt.

“Then you’re just like the rest of those dweeby ponies!”

Rainbow managed to hit Gilda in the beak, interrupting her own attack. The blue mare took this moment to try and beat Gilda in her own game of words.

“Well, I’m not like you! Unlike you, I’m proud of who I am! I would never sacrifice anything dear to me for the pursuit of fame or power!”

“Don’t give me that!” Gilda exclaimed. “I know you well, Dash. You always wanted to be the best. But, in the end, I was the one on top! Even back at the Junior Speedsters, I was always the winner! You were inferior to me! I was superior!”

“That’s right, you were!” Rainbow spoke.

Her voice was slowly getting stronger. Even though the rain was hacking her in the face, her sight was still focused on Gilda.

“I was like that as well. Some time ago, I was considering myself to be above others. I thought of myself as the best. I was cocky, arrogant and I never really cared about anything outside of my interests. But those days are over! I’m not invincible. I’m not flawless. I’m just a regular pony, like thousands of others who live in Equestria and outside its borders. I’m still the same Rainbow Dash that you used to know on the outside, but inside, I’m a completely different pony! Because, with a little help from my friends, I have learned to overcome my faults! You’re the one who can’t let go, Gilda! You refuse to leave the past behind, you live in your own world! And that’s why you can’t beat me in this fight!”

“Shut up!” Gilda squawked. “I don’t need lectures, especially from you!”

Rainbow, knowing that talking won’t be very effective at this point, started flying away from Gilda, baiting the griffon into following her. Just as she was about to strike Rainbow in the back with her claw, the blue pegasus suddenly rolled around, faced her opponent and darted upward, smacking Gilda in the face with her rainbow tail, like if she was using a whip. It caused several gasps among the spectators on the ground and infuriated Gilda.

“Damn! Get back here and fight like a warrior!”

“Like you’re the one to talk!” Rainbow bit back.

She was flying in circles now.

“Come on! What’s the matter, Gilda? Losing your nerve? Maybe try cooling off a little!”

“YOU! You tell me what to do? Who do you think you are?!”

“I already told you, didn’t I?” Rainbow teased her.

Gilda started chasing her again, but both fighters were showing signs of fatigue already.

“You’re seeing this, Spitfire?” Soarin’ asked. “It looks to me that Rainbow is gaining an upper hoof in this confrontation.”

“Yeah. Let’s hope it stays that way.”

“Something tells me that fight is nearing its end,” Jet pointed out. “See? Gilda is barely able to keep up."

“Looks like she bit off more than she can chew,” Cloud Kicker said with satisfaction.

“True. This battle is already decided,” Zeakros added. “Now the only thing we can do is wait for its inevitable end. They both probably realize that as well.”

None of the pegasi aces said a word. They simply observed the fight in silence, partially reminiscing about their own duels against ace fighters they faced in their wars.

Rainbow Dash kept on circling effortlessly around Gilda. Despite the rain and tiredness, she still wanted to fight. Her determination saw her through countless challenges during the war after all. But Gilda wasn’t willing to give up either.

“You fired up, Dash? Come take me down!”

Despite being at a disadvantage, Gilda tried to keep a cool head.

“Now we find out who’s number one!”

She saw an opening and attacked Rainbow, breaking her flight. Gilda started punching her rapidly in the face before grabbing Dash and throwing her away. The pegasus recovered quickly.

“What’s the problem? You’re done already?” Gilda said mockingly.

“If there’s anyone here with a problem, it’s you!” Dash replied.

“I get the feeling you’re hiding something from me, Rainbow. It’s not due to those ponies that you don’t want to join me, am I right?”

“... Yes, there is a different reason. You want to know what is it?”

Gilda was more than curious, but she was completely unprepared for the answer.

“Because I’m too cool to be jerk like you are!”

Taking advantage of Gilda being distracted, Rainbow started to crisscross the sky, looking for a chance to strike. Gilda’s strategy started to backfire on her, but she was oblivious to that fact.

“Oh, yeah? How’s this, then!”

Gilda tried to tackle Rainbow again, but this time, the pegasus was ready. Before Gilda struck her, she dodged to the side and stopped in place. The sights of the fighters had met. Rainbow’s eyes were still lit with fire and a desire to win. She pointed her left hoof at Gilda.

“I hate to break it to you, G, but you’ve lost this battle the moment you attacked Firefly. No... actually, even back when you hurt Medley. But I’ve got to thank you for one thing. For challenging me! Thanks to you, I still have one more reason to fight and live! We may not be so different after all, but I can clearly see who is who. And you’re not yourself! But since there is nopony else in the sky besides us, now you’ll get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see just how fast I really am!”

The blue pegasus resumed her lightning-fast flight. Gilda couldn’t even move and only kept on spinning her head around, trying to follow Rainbow’s trail. She started to lose her patience.

“What...? But, how? How can you be so fast? No! There’s no way I’ll ever lose to you, Rainbow Dash! I was always better! I am the best flier there is! I am a true ace!”

“What good is being the best if you don’t have any moments of happiness to cherish with your friends?” Rainbow asked her.

“Even if you really are a true ace, it doesn’t really matter, Gilda. You are alone!”

“I don’t need friends! They only ruin my cool style. Why do you still say these stupidities, Dash? Oh, I think I know... You cling to others because you’re helpless alone! Face it, Dash! You’re just a failure!”

Those last words made Rainbow really angry. She couldn’t stand Gilda’s attitude any longer. Although she almost didn’t hear them, all ponies on the ground were chanting: “Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash!” She looked down and noticed them. Their cheering gave her additional reason to prove Gilda she was wrong.

“You obviously have no idea how friendship works! So I’m gonna show you!”

Rainbow suddenly changed direction and charged at Gilda, catching her off guard and delivering a powerful buck into the griffin’s chest.

“You mess with my friends...”

Rainbow then followed up with an uppercut to the beak.

“...you mess with me!”

Gilda flew back due to the force of the blows. She was unable to comprehend how Rainbow got so good and how she managed to keep her under pressure this whole time. Gilda tried to attack Rainbow one more time in desperation.

“I will get you, Rainbow Dash! Come on!”

However, Rainbow anticipated Gilda’s punch. When she got closer, the pegasus cambered backward, causing the attack to miss. Seconds later, Rainbow performed a powerful, precise kick straight into Gilda’s neck. That was a decisive blow.

Both of them appeared suspended in the cloudy sky. For a moment, it looked like time has slowed down...

“I pity you, Gilda. Your ambitions almost drove you to madness. This twisted game of yours needs to be reset. It’s over”, Rainbow said to her rival.

“Da-a-ash...”

A shocked expression appeared on Gilda’s face as she started falling toward the ground. Other ponies were cheering, knowing that Rainbow has defeated her opponent.

But Rainbow did the unthinkable: she went after Gilda, trying to grab her and stop her from smashing her skull against the solid ground. When the first attempt failed, Rainbow tried going underneath Gilda. She managed to place herself under her belly, picked her up and started flapping her wings to remain in the air or, at least, lessen the strength of an eventual impact. Unfortunately, Rainbow was feeling very tired; that battle cost her the last remaining ounces of stamina.

Fluttershy saw what was happening. Not hesitating one bit, she flew up to Rainbow and helped her. When the two pegasi landed and dropped the unconscious griffon, the rain became more mellow. Panting heavily, Rainbow Dash slumped to the ground.

“Are you alright, Rainbow?” Fluttershy asked, visibly worried.

“Yeah... I’ll manage,” Rainbow gasped out.

“Why did you tried to save Gilda? She did all those horrible things to you...”

“I know, but still... Well, let’s just say I couldn’t let such a worthy opponent die. Besides, there’s no point in killing anyone anymore. And... something tells me she can realize her mistakes, just like I did.”

The blue pegasus slowly stood up. Fluttershy hugged her tightly, relieved that her friend was feeling better.

“But, you know...” Rainbow started. “Some part of me wanted to fight her anyway. Maybe... a kind of way to prove something to myself.”

“No, Rainbow... She forced you to fight,” Fluttershy opposed.

“Whatever. In any case, it’s over now. Whew... what a way to end the war, huh?” Rainbow said casually with a grin.

Both pegasi saw other ponies approaching them. They were cheering and praising Rainbow for that incredible display of skill and agility.

“That was fantastic, Rainbow! You’re incredible!” Cloud Kicker was jumping around.

“That was some wild flight out there,” said Thunderlane.

“MVP, baby!” Shamrock added.

“Great job, Mirage 1!”

That last praise came from Firefly. She approached Rainbow with her left wing bandaged already. The two mares were simply radiating with joy. They didn’t need any other words. Some griffins, with Zeakros in the front, came as well. He extended his right claw, wanting to shake Rainbow’s hoof in respect.

“Magnificent fight. You are a true princess of the skies.”

Spitfire then got closer to Rainbow, poking her chest playfully with her right hoof.

“Nice fight, Rainbow Dash. Those were some impressive maneuvers.”

“Thanks. But, hey, I was just doing my job,” Rainbow replied smugly.

“I guess there’s no reason for us to stay here any longer. Let’s go back.”

“Wait,” Zeakros pleaded. “I want to say that... I’m sorry. I can’t believe we have been fooled so easily by Red Cyclone’s machinations... If only we had been more perceptive, we could have avoided all this.”

“You are not the ones to be blamed,” Firebolt told him. “The main instigator of the war has been finished. The punishment for him was clear. You’ve made a good choice by trapping him inside Fortress Intimidation.”

“True, but... If Black Star haven’t told me anything, we would probably still be dancing like puppets to Red Cyclone’s tunes. But no more. We’re no longer going to be bound to our orders and follow them blindly. Like that yellow pegasus said, we are not wild animals. We will make amends for our actions.”

“Know one thing, Zeakros. We, ponies, are always willing to forgive you for what happened. What will you do onward is your choice alone,” Twilight Sparkle said to him.

Firefly wanted to know about Black Star’s whereabouts, but Zeakros only said that he left the battlefield shortly after telling him about Red Cyclone’s plans. His current location was unknown. Rainbow turned to the orange-feathered soldier.

“Say, can you guys take care of Gilda? I don’t think she’s in condition to do anything right now.”

Rainbow’s rival was lying on the ground, but a brief examination confirmed that she was alive.

“Do not worry. I can tell she will be just fine,” Zeakros assured Rainbow.

“When Equestria will recover from the ravages of war, we shall pay a visit to your Princesses.”

Dash had a small hope that Gilda would actually realize that she was wrong about her new friends and may be willing to be Dash’s friend again. Spitfire adjusted her communicator to broadband frequency and told all ponies to return to Equestria. They were seen off by the griffins, some were waving them goodbye. It was clear they were relieved to see the war coming to an end. Zeakros promised Firefly and her companions from the Mirage squadron that, should they meet again, the ponies will no longer be treated like enemies.

Any wounded ponies, unable to walk or fly for a prolonged time, were carried by their friends’ on their backs. Upon walking for a while among the mountainous region, they saw those from the Medical Corps called by Gale at Firefly’s suggestion. The unicorns that were able to cast healing spells took care of the soldiers which were hurt the most. Meanwhile, the pegasi and earth ponies were helping the others. Within thirty minutes, they were ready to resume the march and return to Canterlot.

“Woo! I gotta say, that was one heck of a fight!” Quick Chaser said loudly as he walked next to Thunder Flicker.

“Oh, and by the way, Lancer 1. I’ve destroyed twenty two anti-air turrets.”

“Heh... Well, you’ve got me over by one point,” Thunder Flicker replied.

“But I’m glad to see you as a victor, since you’re still alive, pal.”

Quick Chaser seemed initially surprised by those words, but let out a big grin.

Flare Star and Sunburst were leading their companions from Dragon and Phoenix squadrons. The orange pegasus looked a little glum, as he lost two more fliers that replaced those who fell in previous battles. He cared for his companions like they were his brothers. Flare Star tried to make him feel better by saying that he’s an excellent fighter. Sunburst squared that statement with a warm smile.

Tornado Swirl and Overdrive were both suffering from mild slash wounds, but the fact they both managed to survive mattered the most for them. Every now and then, Overdrive nuzzled Tornado in the cheek to show her affection toward him. He wasn’t embarrassed at all.

Spitfire and the rest of the Wonderbolts were talking among themselves. The fiery-maned pegasus moved her sight toward Rainbow Dash, who was speaking with her friends at the front. She seemed to be smiling at the blue pegasus. Did that last duel convince Spitfire to give Dash a chance to become one of them? Soarin’ and Firebolt both stated that Rainbow would definitely be a great addition to the team, but Spitfire remained silent in that matter.

Even the three foreign aces, although battle-hardened and with lots of experience, agreed on one thing: those responsible for starting the conflict were punished and dealt with. But Talisman and Shamrock still wanted to stay in Equestria a little bit longer, hoping to be of some help in rebuilding it. While Mobius remained silent, his expression made it obvious he thought the same.

The war had ended at last, but not without a high price. Even though several ponies seemed glad to have survived the ordeal, others seemed depressed. They all hoped that upon returning to Canterlot, there could be some way to fix the damage caused by the conflict.

==========

1800 hrs
Canterlot Castle Grounds

Having returned to the capital while passing by the scorched fields of Equestria, the ponies, especially the Mirage squadron, were greeted as true heroines. And yet, despite the joy, some sort of desolation was present in many ponies’ hearts. So many of their friends had perished... The flora and fauna of Equestria as a whole also suffered a mighty blow. Many areas where forest animals used to live were reported as becoming nearly barren due to intense, uncontrollable fires. The downpour that seemingly followed all returning warriors from the Griffin Kingdom revealed just how great the damage was. It was no surprise that several ponies just couldn’t enjoy the victory, no matter how much they wanted to.

Fluttershy felt deep grief for all those poor animals, additionally feeling troubled about her own pets. While Medley and Cloud Kicker tried to cheer her up, they also felt a little sad. Lightning Bolt was actually astounded they managed to win the war.

“Equestria wasn’t in any kind of conflict for several hundred years. When you look at it that way, we did an exceptionally good job.”

“But... but so many have died. Blueberry... Carrot Top..." Fluttershy said in a low voice.

Derpy felt devastated when she thought about her friend. Never again would she hear her voice or see her smile... Dinky and Pipsqueak saw the sorrow on Derpy’s face, so they approached and hugged her. The grey mare tried her best to smile, promising to take care of Pipsqueak as though the little colt would be her own son. Dinky was really glad to hear that Pipsqueak will stay with her, since she had grown a liking to him as well.

Applejack and Rarity found Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle among the crowd. The happiness on both fillies’ faces was indescribable. Scootaloo was also delighted to see Rainbow Dash and Firefly coming back. The Wonderbolts were greeted by Gale, who expressed genuine gratefulness for the horror of war coming to an end. Mobius met with Sky Eye; the white stallion seemed really glad and praised the ace for a great fight and how he defeated Echo. Talisman and Shamrock were observing all these celebrations and warm reunions slightly on the side, but upon being called by other pegasi, they had no reason to refuse and not join them.

In the midst of everything, Spike came to see Twilight and her friends, asking them to follow him inside the castle. Princesses Celestia and Luna wanted to talk with them. Firefly saw them off.

Upon reaching the main chamber, the six ponies were greeted by the Royal Sisters. When Twilight’s companions rose from the floor after bowing, Princess Celestia spoke first.

“My little ponies, we want to thank you for defending Equestria once again. This has been a great victory for you and us all.”

“But, Princess...” Twilight spoke timidly. “Our victory doesn’t feel like one... There was so much death and destruction...”

“Yeah... Majority of cities also suffered heavy damage,” Applejack added.

“And whole Equestria is probably horribly incinerated...” Fluttershy whimpered.

“That war was ugly. I’ve never thought anyone could be so cruel as that Red Cyclone creep,” Pinkie Pie squeaked with an upset tone.

“We can rebuild the cities, plant new seeds... but what about those who died?” Rarity asked.

“If only there was some way to avert this catastrophe...”

“Actually, Rarity, there is,” Princess Luna said.

“My sister and I have been prepared to fix the damage caused by the war in some way. But we’ll require your cooperation.”

Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash looked at the Royal Sisters with utter surprise on their faces. Not saying a word, the two winged unicorns gestured for the six ponies to follow them. Celestia and Luna led them to the Canterlot Tower, to the place where the Elements of Harmony were being kept. Upon opening the magical seal, Princess Celestia presented the Elements before its bearers.

“As you know, the power of the Elements of Harmony saved Equestria countless times,” she spoke.

“It’s true that the destruction from this war in one on a grand scale. But if we were able to combine the power of the Elements and our own magic, it will increase their power and they will allow us to perform something akin to a miracle.”

“There are two possible outcomes of using such power,” Princess Luna carried on.

“One of them will allow us to hasten the rejuvenation process of Equestria. Within a few weeks, all plant life should gradually start returning back to the state from before the war. The animals will be cured or resurrected as well. It might appear as if Equestria was never invaded to begin with.”

While this option seemed quite gratifying, Applejack wanted to know about the alternate effect of combining the magic of the Elements of Harmony with the one of Royal Sisters. When Princess Celestia spoke of the second solution, her words sounded improbably at first.

“If we were to choose the other way to harness this power, we would be able to revive every single victim of this war.”

“Every... single... one?” Rarity muttered.

“Is it really possible?”

“It is,” Luna confirmed.

“However, for every single victim we also mean the griffins, including the one responsible for starting the entire conflict.”

“So, that means...” Twilight thought aloud.

“It means that if we were to revive everyone, we would also revive Red Cyclone and his freaks. And then, the whole war will most likely start over again,” Rainbow Dash said angrily.

For a moment, she thought the idea to bring all the dead back to life was the best option. Now she had to alter her way of thinking.

“So we either restore Equestria’s flora and fauna or we revive all victims of the war... with a risk of starting this whole mess over again... And if we choose the first solution, we won’t be able to see our deceased friends again... What kind of a choice is that?!” Rarity lamented.

“There is another thing...” Princess Celestia added. “The amount of magical power needed to revive so many fallen will have to be enormous...”

She stopped briefly before continuing.

“There is a possibility that the Elements of Harmony may become unusable and our own existence will be threatened as well... In other words, we may disappear, never to return. ”

Those words were shocking. Princesses Celestia and Luna were one of the few surviving members of their specific pony species. Additionally, they were responsible for controlling the entire cycle of the day in Equestria, lowering the sun and the moon to change day for night. Their deaths could have serious consequences for the land of the ponies. Each and every pony subject loved them both and would be greatly affected by their passing.

Minutes had languished, but ultimately, both the bearers of the Elements and the Royal Sisters agreed that it wouldn’t be fair if they had made the decision on their own. Princesses Celestia and Luna had decided to use telepathy in order to speak to every pony in Equestria and ask them which solution they would prefer. The thoughts of their subjects have slowly started to flow into the consciousness of the Royal Sisters.

Many of the pleas were actually wishing for the revival of the victims. Those who tried to oppose this option were mostly those who fought bravely during the war and were not wishing to see it happening again. Even some fillies wanted to see “the ponies in a deep sleep,” as they called them, to wake up, as some of the kids lost a parent or a relative during the conflict. Others wished to see the innocent animals running on the fields and in forests again.

The expressions on Celestia and Luna’s faces, as well as Twilight and her friends, with whom the Princesses shared their thoughts for this moment, were showing sadness, sympathy, and even shadows of anger. But that anger wasn’t directed toward their subjects. The rulers of Equestria were aggravated at themselves. It was obvious that whichever choice was going to be made, not everypony would be satisfied. And yet, the sisters were not afraid to risk their very existence if it meant restoring their land to its former self.

Finally, when all thoughts and pleas had been gathered, Celestia and Luna had come to a decision. They were ready to use their powers to amplify the Elements of Harmony.

“Princess Celestia... what will happen when we will use the Elements?” Twilight asked.

“It is unknown even to us,” the solar princess responded.

“Every pony had their own interpretation and reasons on which solution should be used. But they have spoken from their hearts. We are prepared. How about you? Which solution do you chose?”

“B-But... what if you will disappear? What if the Elements will not be useable again? If another disaster befalls Equestria, what are we going to do...?” Twilight sounded very worried.

But her friends were right next to her.

“Don’t fret, Twilight. If things get bad, we’re gonna clean the mess up, as always,” Applejack assured her with a sprightly tone.

She put her necklace, representing Honesty, on her neck. Pinkie Pie and Rarity followed suit, stating they are not afraid of the result of this spell.

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy also slowly put their necklaces on. All symbols started to glow.

“I can’t say it’s gonna be all fine and dandy if the war will start again... but I’ll be ready for whatever comes our way. If the need will rise, I’ll lead the Mirage squadron to battle the enemy again!” the blue flier promised.

“I want to see Equestria reborn... but I’d also wish for our friends to come back... It’s so difficult for me to choose...”

Fluttershy felt slightly lost at first, before she said:

“I will accept whatever choice the ponies made. If the conflict will begin again, I’ll come with Rainbow!”

Twilight was the last to put on her Element, a beautiful tiara, which represented Magic.

“... My mind is set. I don’t know what will happen, but I won’t abandon my friends or Equestria. Never, ever! As the bearers of the Elements of Harmony, we must do our best to secure our land. We are ready, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna!”

“Very well” Celestia noded.

“Then let us begin...”

Spike covered his eyes, seeing the intense bright light radiating from the gathered ponies. It was expanding slowly. It soon enveloped the entire Canterlot castle. The ponies outside were pointing at the phenomenon, not sure what it meant. Soon, they were also caught inside of the light sphere. With every second, it grew larger and after a while, it was surrounded by colorful rainbows. The power of the Elements had been amplified due to the magic of the Royal Sisters.

The result of the spell was a decision made by the ponies of Equestria.

Epilogue: A Brand New Day

When the flames of war will diminish,

Peace will rise again to embrace the world.

Some dreams come true if the desire is strong.

A stray soul will finally find its place among her friends.

Epilogue

“A Brand New Day”

June 14th, 2019

0900 hrs

Ponyville

The sun had graced Equestria with its warm light. Several small clouds were leisurely scudding across the blue skies. Rainbow Dash was slowly making her way to Fluttershy’s cottage. She was in need of her help. Landing on the ground, she winced. The last night became almost a sleepless one for Rainbow. She walked up to the door and knocked on it.

“Fluttershy! You’re home?”

The door opened as Fluttershy peeked from behind it. She wasn’t expecting a guest so early in the morning. “Oh, Rainbow. Good morning.”

“For you, maybe,” Rainbow replied with a gruff voice. “Can I come in?”

“Um... sure.”

Rainbow slowly walked inside the cottage, groaning. She appeared to have difficulties with just walking. Fluttershy looked at her, uncertain.

“Rainbow, are you hurt?”

“Ooohhh... grgh... my back... My back is killing me. The pain...” the blue pegasus whined.

“But... How can it be? What exactly happened?”

“Well... Last week, I got a letter from Spitfire. She wrote that she would like to see me perform an air show of my own before her and the Wonderbolts after the celebration that will be held to solemnize the end of the war,” Rainbow Dash explained.

“You know, it will be in Canterlot today, at noon.”

“Right,” Fluttershy remembered. “I’m guessing you were excited.”

“You bet I was! I could barely control myself! I knew that this could be my best chance to show them I can be a Wonderbolt, too! So I started practicing without delay. I’ve been doing many different tricks, the wildest acrobatics, the biggest stunts... I was training everyday. Everything was going smoothly... until yesterday evening.”

“What happened?” Fluttershy reiterated.

“I was just doing a triple spinning screwdriver... one of the tricks I came up with lately... when I suddenly felt like something stung me in the back. I was momentarily paralysed from pain. I landed on a cloud, trying to catch my breath, but I could barely move... Argh...”

Rainbow managed to keep her balance, but it was obvious she was suffering.

“I hoped that if I’d get some sleep, it will go away... but it still hurts! Owww... pony feathers...! Fluttershy, can you help me with that?”

“But... What if it’s a broken spine?!” Fluttershy asked worryingly. “I think you should go to the hospital first...”

“Fluttershy, if I had a broken spine, I wouldn’t be able to fly,” Rainbow said, slightly irritated. “Besides, I don’t feel too comfortable in that place... y’know what I mean.”

“Yes, I think I do... Then, how can I help you?”

“How about... a massage or something? I heard you’re pretty good at this...”

Fluttershy was genuinely surprised to hear that from Rainbow, of all ponies. She thought about it for a second. Knowing how important it was for her friend to perform before Spitfire, Fluttershy agreed. She first asked Rainbow to lie down on the floor on her belly and stretch out her arms.

“Alright, let’s see... Where does it hurt, Rainbow?”

“Urgh... I don’t know... Somewhere in the back, that’s all I know.”

Fluttershy started moving her hoof around Rainbow’s back, trying to find the pain center. Rainbow tried to guide Fluttershy.

“Ah... a little lower... on the left... your left, I mean. Uhhh... almost... a little higher...! OW! That’s it! That’s the spot...! Arrrghhh... horse apples... It hurts!” the rainbow-maned pegasus groaned.

“It’s not the spinal column, so you didn’t break anything,” Fluttershy asseverated. “You probably strained a muscle or two while you were training...”

“Heh... so I guess I overdid it, huh?” Rainbow asked.

Fluttershy turned a little upset.

“It’s a miracle you were actually able to reach me. I haven’t seen anypony carrying so much tension in a long time! You really should have come to me sooner, Rainbow! It could have been bad for you... Don’t worry, I’ll help you. But... um, you should grit your teeth... this may hurt for a second...”

Rainbow did as she was told. Then, Fluttershy pressed her hoof firmly against Rainbow’s back, causing her to growl loudly.

“What are you doing, Fluttershy?!” Rainbow nearly yelled at her.

“I’m sorry, Rainbow! But I had to make sure. Now... just relax. Leave the rest to me.”

Fluttershy begun rubbing Rainbow’s back with her front hooves as gently as possible before slowly moving them across the spine. Rainbow initially felt a bit of discomfort, but, over time, she actually started to feel better. Getting used to the pressure, Dash loosened up.

“Yeah... I can feel that working already,” Rainbow said.

“Mmmm... nice... OUCH!”

“Oh! Rainbow, did I hurt you? I’m sorry!” Fluttershy jumped in scare.

“No, it’s not that... It’s just that the pain moved from the back to the arms...”

“Oh... In that case, it’s nothing serious. Don’t worry, Rainbow. Once I’m done massaging your back, I’ll take care of your arms as well. You need to be in top condition after all.”

“Heh... with you doing the stuff? I’ve got nothing to worry about.”

As Fluttershy continued the massage, the only thing that was heard in the silence was Rainbow’s occasional soft moans of pleasure. The yellow pegasus was glad to help her friend, knowing that Rainbow would really visit her and ask for help rather than go to hospital or, at least, the spa. Fluttershy pressed her left hoof against Rainbow’s back now and started rubbing it.

“Y’know, Fluttershy... I think you’ve got the best hooves for massage in whole Equestria,” Rainbow stated. Fluttershy blushed, hearing those words.

“You’re flattering me. I’m just helping out a friend in need,” she responded.

“I’m being serious.”

“But nopony gave you a massage before, did they?”

“No... you’re the first... and the best,” Rainbow chuckled. “If I’m going to become one of the Wonderbolts, I might recruit you as a personal masseuse.”

“I don’t think that would be right, Rainbow...” Fluttershy said, while rubbing her friend’s back with her left hoof.

“I mean, the other Wonderbolts may not like it.”

Rainbow remembered when Spitfire told her that, in their team, there are certain rules that everypony must follow. She figured that having Fluttershy as a personal masseuse could make her seem more important than the rest. And she wanted to avoid that.

“Well then, how about this... Have you ever considered getting a job at the spa, here in Ponyville?” Rainbow suggested.

“Like, a part-time job, once a week or two? You could always earn some extra credit. Lotus and Aloe could use your assistance. Besides, if you’d be working there, it could be a reason for me to actually go there with Rarity and the rest,” the blue pegasus added with a laugh.

“Um... It’s true, I once thought of applying there...” Fluttershy started. “But... who is going to take care of my animals when I’ll be away?”

Rainbow was about to say that her animals did just fine while they were fighting during the war, but realized they certainly missed Fluttershy. After all, until last month, she’s been away from her cottage for over half a year.

“Hmmm... In that case, maybe you should get an assistant?”

“Like who?” Fluttershy asked, placing her right hoof next to her left one and rubbing Rainbow’s upper body with them.

“Everypony I know among our friends already has a job. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker are working in the Weather Factory, Derpy delivers mail and Firefly... well, forgive me, but I don’t think she’s cut out to be an assistant in animal care.”

“You got a point. Firefly is more of a mare of action,” Rainbow agreed. “Hmm... What about Medley?”

“I... don’t think she actually has a job,” Fluttershy said slowly.

“Well, there we go! Since we need to round up the girls before we head for Canterlot anyway, we might just as well ask Medley about helping you with the animals.”

“Do you think she’ll be interested?”

“You bet! I can already imagine her being all excited about it...”

Rainbow and Fluttershy hadn’t seen their friends since the war came to an end. It was clear to both of them that they needed some time for themselves to recover from the traumatic experiences. Derpy and Firefly were especially in need of that. The pink mare already told Rainbow Dash that she will come to Canterlot just before the ceremony will begin, as she still had some “unfinished business” to do. Rainbow figured that it probably had something to do with Black Star.

“I guess we can try...” Fluttershy’s voice interrupted Rainbow’s thinking.

“But before we go, let me finish the massage, alright?”

“Sure... no hurry...”

Rainbow suddenly lifted her head.

“I can’t believe I just said that!”

Fluttershy giggled.

“It’s OK, Rainbow Dash. I’m almost done... There.”

She finished rubbing Rainbow’s back.

“I’ll take care of your arms now. Can you take a sitting position?”

Rainbow got up and sat on the floor, allowing Fluttershy to tend to her arms. The blue flier closed her eyes, feeling the pain gradually go away. After a few minutes, Fluttershy was done.

“There. How do you feel, Rainbow? Better?” she asked.

“Better? I feel divine! No pain at all! Woohoo!”

Rainbow made a backflip.

“Awesome! No trick is too hard for me, now! Thanks, Fluttershy. I knew I could count on you.”

Fluttershy smiled wide. Rainbow was eager to go and see their friends now. It was getting on to ten o’clock. Before they left, Fluttershy called Angel who instantly approached her.

“Please look after our friends until I get back,” she said to the bunny.

“Of course, if any of you would be interested in going to Canterlot, you are free to go. Just stick close to Angel.”

Several animals reacted positively. Angel even gave Fluttershy a salute. Rainbow looked at him, surprised.

‘Is it just me... or is Angel actually being... nice?”

“Angel missed me a lot,” Fluttershy explained. “Just like all of my friends. I guess he was feeling lonely without me.”

“Who would have thought...” Rainbow said under her breath.

==========

1015 hrs

As the two pegasi left Fluttershy’s cottage, they were now heading to Ponyville town center, where Medley was living. Along the way, they noticed how the natural environment improved since the last few weeks. The flowers were blooming once more, the trees grew larger and all the animals had returned to their habitats. Fluttershy’s heart became filled with bliss.

“Look, Rainbow. Isn’t it wonderful? Equestria is slowly coming back to normal.”

“Yeah. It’s hard to believe there was nothing but burned ground there just a month ago,” Rainbow pointed her hoof to a nearby meadow.

“It’s good to know that most ponies chose to rejuvenate Equestria rather than risk starting that mess all over again...”

“But it saddens me that we have lost so many friends,” Fluttershy said in a low voice.

“Life is brutal, Fluttershy,” Rainbow replied. “But let me tell you something: some of our friends may be gone, but memories of them will never die.”

Fluttershy nodded silently. She then said:

“Rainbow... I believe you have really matured during the war.”

“You think?”

“Yes, you’ve become a very responsible pony. And you were a great squadron leader.”

Rainbow didn’t respond to that praise, but she was glad to hear Fluttershy say that. Moments later, they noticed Medley’s house. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash landed before it. Rainbow knocked on the door.

They could hear Medley’s muffled voice from behind them:

“Who in the wide world of Equestria is banging on the door so early... Alright, I’m coming!”

Medley opened the door.

“Yes, what’s the—Oh!”

“Hey, Kid!” Rainbow Dash greeted her.

“Rainbow Dash! Fluttershy!”

Medley smiled broadly, hugging her friends.

“Oh, it’s so great to see you girls again! How are you doing?”

“We’re doing fine, thanks,” Rainbow anwsered. “What about you?”

“I’m doing alright, too. What brings you here at such an early hour?” Medley inquired.

“Did you forget?” Rainbow asked. “There’s gonna be a celebration in Canterlot on occasion of the end of the war in about two hours. We’re rounding up our squad to go there together.”

Medley smacked her forehead.

“Aw, pony feathers! I almost forgot! This peaceful atmosphere almost made me lose track of time!”

Fluttershy and Rainbow giggled. It was good to see Medley in her usual energetic mood.

“By the way, Medley, Fluttershy has a little offer for you,” Rainbow added.

Medley’s eyes widened. She asked Fluttershy what kind of offer she had in mind.

“Well... I was wondering if you would be interested... in becoming my assistant? You could be taking care of my animal friends if I happen to be away...”

“You’re kidding!” Medley exclaimed.

“I’ll understand if you would not be—”

“Of course I want to!” Medley’s squeal interrupted Fluttershy.

“I’ll be happy to help you with your animals! I remember you have a lot of cute critters there... Aww, I can’t wait see them all! I promise you, I’ll be a great assistant!”

“Told you so,” Rainbow whispered to Fluttershy’s left ear.

Fluttershy welcomed Medley’s will to help her with a wide smile. The green pegasus was now ready to go with the two friends.

“So, now we’re going to Derpy, right?” Rainbow asked Fluttershy.

She let out a short “Mh-hm”, but before they flew up, Medley stopped them.

“Girls... there’s no need to. Derpy is already in Canterlot. She left about two hours ago... and she took Dinky and Pipsqueak with her. She told me that she wanted to visit Carrot Top and Raindrops...”

A brief, uneasy silence fell among the three ponies.

“How is Derpy holding up?” Fluttershy asked. “Did she get over their deaths?”

“I think she did,” Medley replied. “But... I don’t know... sometimes she still seems absent... I think she still has difficulties in letting it go.”

“Poor Derpy... She suffered the most from us during the war...”

Even Rainbow felt sorry for Derpy. Fluttershy remembered that Princesses Celestia and Luna decided to erect a statue in memory of the ponies who fell during the conflict, as well as to create a separate section in the Royal Gardens, which became a resting site for all those buried there, soldiers and civilians alike.

“We’ll be sure to check the Royal Gardens before we go to the city. Derpy is probably there. She could use a little company,” Rainbow decided.

The three ponies then took off in the direction of Cloudsdale. They were heading there to pick up Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker. The two mares were now living together. As Medley pointed out, the war strengthened the bonds between them, and now they became something akin to sisters.

1040 hrs

Cloudsdale

“C’mon, Cloud Kicker! You’re being too slow!” Lightning Bolt cried to her friend.

“Oh, just wait! I’m gonna get you!”

The two ponies were playing tag. Cloud Kicker got closer to Lightning and was about to catch her, but she rose her altitude a bit, making the purple pegasus fly right below her. But Cloud made a front flip and used her legs to rebound from a wall, straight into surprised Lightning Bolt. They both fell to the ground and started laughing.

“Haha, see? I got you!” Cloud Kicker grinned.

“You sure did!”

Both pegasi then heard someone calling their names. They got outside and saw Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Medley. After a joyful reunion, Lightning and Cloud Kicker were offered to come with them to Canterlot. The two friends were more than happy to follow Rainbow’s group.

Just as all five pegasi were making their way to the capital, Lightning Bolt turned to Rainbow.

“Say, are your friends already in Canterlot?”

“Yeah, they’ve been helping with preparations for the past few days. Twilight’s organising everything, as always.”

“So how come you and Fluttershy aren’t there?” Cloud Kicker wondered.

“They said I should come on the day of the ceremony. When I asked why I can’t come earlier, they said it would ruin the surprise. Dunno what they meant by that.”

“They must be preparing something for you, Rainbow,” Medley guessed.

“If so, then why keep it a secret?”

On that nopony had an answer. Medley additionally asked about Mobius, Sky Eye and the Garuda team. Fluttershy told her that they were also helping everypony with preparations, and in the past few weeks, they’ve also aided several ponies in adjusting to a new situation. They already announced that they would return back to their countries after the celebration, seeing as their assistance in battle was no longer required. Rainbow frowned a little when she thought about Mobius leaving. Even though he never said a word, he was a likeable fellow.

The five winged ponies had finally arrived in Canterlot’s airspace. Rainbow then stopped as they were passing by the Royal Gardens and pointed her hoof down in silence. Her friends understood the message. They descended slowly.

1120 hrs

Canterlot Royal Gardens

Upon landing on the ground, they immediately saw a big statue. It depicted a female pegasus with spread wings, as if it was about to fly. An earth pony and a unicorn were standing next to it on the sides. Rainbow got closer and read the words on the statue:

“In memory of all brave ponies

who had paid the highest price

to protect Equestria from danger.

Glory to the fallen.”

Glory to the fallen... It sounded so tragically solemn. Fluttershy examined the statue closely and noticed something. The pegasus had a short mane and a melancholic eyesight. The yellow flier knew only one pegasus who had such looks...

“Blueberry...?” she wondered aloud.

“Girls, that earth pony... Isn’t that Carrot Top?” Medley asked.

The pony’s smile and curly mane were indeed reminiscent of her...

For a few seconds, the pegasi stood there, thinking about their friends before they headed into the newly build section. It was called the “Garden of the Fallen” by its visitors. One thing that caught their sight upon entering was the gravestones scattered around the place. If someone would call it a “burial site,” it wouldn’t be too far from the truth. The Equestrian War has claimed the lives of over 1000 ponies. No less than 600 of them were civilians. Walking among the graves, a feeling of bitter sadness awoke in the ponies’ hearts, despite the sunny weather gracing Equestria on this day.

Every gravestone was unique in that it not only had the pony’s name engraved into it, but it also had its picture and a cutie mark of the deceased one. If it happened to be a soldier, it even contained their codename and unit’s name. After a few moments, Fluttershy’s eyes suddenly widened as she darted toward one particular gravestone. Others followed her. She stopped before it. Her lips quivered when she read the epitaph.

Here lies Blueberry

Clover 1

A model fighter until the end

All ponies lowered their heads in grief. Fluttershy covered her face with her left arm.

“Hey, Fluttershy... are you all right?” Cloud Kicker asked her.

“Yes, I’m fine... but it’s a terrible day for a rain,” Fluttershy replied with a shaky voice.

“It’s not raining...”

“It is...”

When she looked at Cloud Kicker, Fluttershy’s cheeks were wet from tears. The purple pegasus understood her pain, whispering "It really is..." and gave Fluttershy a hug.

Rainbow Dash checked around and found a couple of graves that became a resting place for Sunburst’s companions from Phoenix squadron, Chrome Plate’s Stingray squadron, including himself, and even members of Tornado Swirl’s Burner squadron. Overdrive’s comrades, with Sea Spot among them, were laid to rest a couple of meters away. Medley turned her head around and quietly called others to follow her. A few seconds later, they found their friend.

Derpy was standing before Carrot Top’s grave, with Dinky and Pipsqueak being close to the grey mare. Raindrops had her own grave almost right next to Carrot’s. Derpy put a couple of flowers and carrots on the graves, smiling sadly and closing her eyes, undoubtedly reflecting upon the days she had spent with her friends in the past.

Not wanting to disturb her, Dinky motioned Pip to come with her. When they were some distance away from Derpy, Dinky said:

“Mommy needs our support, Pip. I think she was badly affected by auntie Carrot’s passing.”

Pipsqueak nodded with a grumble. Dinky saw that tears were flocked in his eyes.

“What’s the matter, Pip? Are you saddened, too?” the little filly wondered.

“Yeah... I... I was just thinking about my parents... Do you... do you think they are somewhere out there, too...?”

He pointed to the sunny sky.

“I’m sure they are, Pip,” Dinky replied, trying to cheer him up. “They are in a better place, where there are no such things as pain, suffering or sadness... and, one day... we will all go to that place... And when we do, we will meet those we miss... I’m sure of it. But, for now... we must focus on the present. Don’t be sad, Pip... I’m here for you. I’m your sister, after all”

Those words heartened Pipsqueak a little. He promised Dinky that he would be a good brother, to which the filly responded with a warm smile, giving Pip a hug.

A loud sob was heard in the silence. The two little ponies turned around.

“Cloud Kicker! Try to control your emotions!” Lightning Bolt scolded her friend.

“I can’t! I feel like my heart is going to break... I have a soft spot for that kind of stuff.”

“Angels! The Angels had come!” Dinky exclaimed happily.

But her cheery expression vanished when she saw they came out with one flier short.

“... Where is Miss Firefly?”

“She’s already in Canterlot, Dinky,” Fluttershy anwsered. “I’m sure she’s waiting for you... and us, too.”

Derpy came, looking for her kids.

“Dinky! Pip! Don’t go wandering... Oh.”

The sight of Rainbow Dash and the rest of her friends from Mirage squadron surprised Derpy.

“Hello, everypony... What brings you here?”

“You didn’t think we would leave you alone like this, did you?”

Rainbow Dash wrapped her arm around Derpy’s neck and bared her teeth. The grey mare didn’t say a word, but she was moved by her friends’ genuine concern for her. She told them that she begun to slowly accept the new reality she found herself in. Derpy embraced Dinky and Pipsqueak, giving out a most sincere smile.

“I’m sorry to had you worried so much. Let’s go to Canterlot, now.”

Shortly after her friends took off, Derpy took Dinky and Pipsqueak on her back and was about to take flight as well. Suddenly, she felt an irresistible urge to look at the graves of Carrot Top and Raindrops once more... and then...

She saw faint images of her friends standing before the gravestones. They were smiling.

“Stay strong, Derpy. I will be watching you and your kids”, the pony with a curly mane promised.

“You will never be alone,” said a pegasus with a light gold coat, cyan mane and pretty, turquoise eyes.

“Carrot Top...? Raindrops...?”

Derpy wiped her eyes, but only saw Carrot Top and Raindrops’ graves, their images gone. She looked up at the passing clouds. Was it only in her imagination?

“What’s wrong, Mommy?” Dinky asked.

“Nothing... Nothing’s wrong, dear. I’m fine. Let’s go. Hold on tight, kids!”

Derpy went up into the sky. Dinky and Pipsqueak were very excited all the way until they reached Canterlot.
The grey pegasus felt great relief inside her heart.

“Thank you... Carrot Top... Raindrops... I won’t let you down.”

==========

1140 hrs

Canterlot

The majority of the pegasi Rainbow met during the course of war were already in Canterlot, preparing themselves for the big celebration. Streets were decorated with streamers and flowers. Many were already arriving on the castle grounds where the main event would take place. Overdrive was also there. She kept on tapping her hoof in growing impatience.

“Tornado, what’s taking you so long?” she said to herself. “You really wanna get late?”

“Sorry to keep you waiting, Overdrive!” Tornado Swirl descended to her a few moments later.

He carried a small leather bag with him.

“I’ve been on a little shopping. And I have something for you, too.”

Tornado searched his bag for a small pink gift box and handled it to Overdrive. She looked a little bewildered.

“For me? What is it?”

“Why don’t you open it and see for yourself?” Tornado suggested.

“OK... but if this is some kind of prank, then I promise I’ll give you a... Oh!”

She didn’t finish the sentence. When Overdrive unpacked the box, her eyes gazed on a pretty yellow ribbon. Tornado said he picked that color because it blended nicely with her eyes. Giggling, Overdrive put the ribbon in her mane.

“How do I look?” she asked.

“I dare to say... you look lovely,” Tornado replied.

“Hehe... Thanks, Tornado. That’s really sweet of you... But you didn’t had to.”

“No... but I wanted to.”

“Oh, come here, you...”

Overdrive leaned toward Tornado’s right cheek and kissed him.

“You deserve it.”

“Heh. That ribbon cost me fifty bits. But getting a kiss from Overdrive is a priceless feeling,” Tornado Swirl thought to himself.

Both ponies soon spotted six familiar figures flying down. Rainbow Dash and her friends landed right before them. They were greeted with a certain sense of respect.

“Well, looks like our stars have arrived, along with their princess,” Tornado commented.

No pony had an idea what he meant. Overdrive poked him in the flank.

“Err... I mean, nice to see you again, girls.”

“Likewise,” said Rainbow. “We’re not too late, are we?”

“Nah, the show will start in about half an hour. That reminds me...”

“Oh, Overdrive! What a pretty ribbon!” Medley interrupted his sentence.

“Thanks,” the lavender mare said. “It’s a gift from my boyfriend.”

The six pegasi looked into each other for a while before they could understand the meaning of those words.

“Boyfriend? Wait... So, that means...!” Lightning Bolt guessed.

“Yep.”

“That’s right.”

“We’re a couple now!”

Tornado Swirl and Overdrive spoke one after the other before saying the third phrase in unison.

“No way!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “When did that happen?”

Tornado and Overdrive briefly told about their exchange of confessions during the liberation of Canterlot. It was then when they realized how much they care for each other.

“Tornado, you lucky foal! Such a fine girl you’ve got!" Medley commented.

“What’s wrong, Medley? Are you jealous?” Derpy asked.

“No, I’m just saying.”

“In any case... Rainbow, Fluttershy,” Tornado turned to them. “Your friends are waiting for you at the castle grounds. Flash is there, too.”

“I see... thanks for telling us. Girls, if you don’t mind, Fluttershy and I will go ahead,” Rainbow said to her companions.

“Sure. We’ll meet up later,” Lightning Bolt agreed.

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew up and headed out to meet Twilight and the rest of their friends. The blue pegasus also hoped to speak with Firefly for a while.

As expected, Twilight had everything under control. All ponies worked hard. The last few preparations were almost at a completion. When Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy got there, Firefly greeted them. She seemed to be a little insecure, but Dash could guess why.

“Hey, did you knew?” Pinkie Pie suddenly squeaked. “Princesses Celestia and Luna are going to receive a visit from a griffin delegation!”

“Right,” Rarity sounded slightly more upbeat. “It is said they’ve already crowned a new king. And it’s supposedly someone you know well, Rainbow.”

“Huh...”

She didn’t seemed much interested in this particular manner.

“Did anypony saw Spitfire?”

“She and the Wonderbolts will be here soon,” Firefly told her.

“But for now we have different guests here.”

The pink pegasus pointed to the north. A group of ten griffins were on their way to the castle grounds. All ponies present seemed troubled, but Princesses Celestia and Luna had just left the castle to welcome the invited guests. As the half lion-eagle creatures landed and came face to face with the Royal Sisters, each of them made a bow.

The one who led the griffins wore a red cape; a symbol of royalty in the Griffin Kingdom. Rainbow got a glimpse on his image. There was something in his sapphire eyes and orange feathers that seemed familiar...

“Princess Celestia... Princess Luna... Wise rulers of Equestria,” the griffin said slowly.

“We have come as per your invitation. Let us mark this day as one of unity rather than grim memories of the conflict that tore our two countries. On behalf of my soldiers, I humbly request your acceptance in reforming our alliance. May Equestria and The Griffin Kingdom become friends once more.”

This proposition came out suddenly. Some ponies were superstitious about it. But the two sisters seemed confident. They nodded. Princess Celestia spoke:

“It is our pleasure to accept your offer, King Valdar. We are more than glad to welcome the griffins as our allies once more.”

“The skies belong to everyone,” Princess Luna added. “Your presence on this celebration is more than desired. This will be a new beginning.”

The griffon that was referred to as Valdar then told the Princesses about the judgments he passed on the griffins who survived the war. Most of them were sentenced to prison or, in worst cases, banished from the kingdom for a given time. Those who were directly responsible for the start of the conflict were either dead or already redeemed of their crimes.

Rainbow Dash and her companions came closer. They recognized the new griffin king.

“Zeakros?!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Ah, imagine meeting you here, Mirage 1... or should I say, Rainbow Dash,” Zeakros intimated. “I see all your friends are present, too.”

“So the griffins chose you as their new king?” Cloud Kicker wondered. “Won’t you be bored with such responsibility? I thought you are more of a soldier than...”

“They thought I was the most auspicious choice. I have allowed them to refer to me by my actual name. Valdar is just a name given to me as a king. I am still Zeakros and you may call me that,” the griffon explained.

“My troops and I will go and speak with the princesses now, before the celebration will begin. In the meantime... Rainbow Dash?”

“Yeah?”

“There’s someone who wants to talk to you.”

Zeakros motioned to the back row of his delegation. A single griffon emerged from it. Rainbow’s eyes widened.

“Gilda?”

“Yo, Dash...”

“I will leave you now. Either come join us later, Gilda, or leave and do what must be done.”

She gave a slight nod before Zeakros and his troops left with the Royal Sisters. Twilight also motioned her friends to go with them. They were going to welcome another set of guests.

Rainbow Dash and Gilda kept on staring into each other’s eyes, even though the griffon barely manage to maintain her composure.

“How... are you doing, G?” Rainbow started.

“Can’t complain... They revoked my status as a refuge so long as I will be willing to help them in the deconstruction of the remains of Fortress Intimidation,” Gilda said.

“That’s why I only have a short time to attend here... Dash... I...”

Gilda suddenly turned around and was now facing Rainbow with her back.

“I wanted to say... I’m... sorry...”

Rainbow Dash was not expecting those kind of words to come out of Gilda’s beak. She didn’t shoved it in Rainbow’s face, but she felt disgusted, having to apologize to her.

“There. I said it. There’s no point for me to stay here anymore. I’m outta here.”

“Gilda, wait!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“What? Are my words not good enough for you? You want me to humiliate myself even more? Listen, Dash, you may be a better flier than me, but I still have my pride!”

“Gilda... you still don’t understand...” Rainbow shook her head, coming a bit closer to her old friend.

“It doesn’t have to be this way. There’s no need for grudge between us.”

“What are you talking about?” Gilda squawked, clearly annoyed.

“You know... there is another face of pride...”

Rainbow stretched her right hoof toward Gilda.

“...It’s called forgiving.”

Fluttershy and the other ponies, especially Firefly, were dumbfounded. Did Rainbow...?

“What...? You... would forgive me?” Gilda couldn’t believe what she just heard.

“But... But I tried to freakin’ kill you! I tried to kill your friends! How could you possibly forgive me for that?!”

Rainbow breathed calmly.

“It’s true that you did a terrible thing by betraying me, G... I know there are some ponies who wouldn’t hesitate to make you sorry... I actually thought of doing things like that, too... But I wonder... what would they do to me if I was in your shoes?”

“Huh?”

Gilda didn’t seem to understand what Rainbow meant. She wasn’t the only one; other ponies gathered around also looked puzzled. Rainbow carried on.

“What I’m trying to say is... We’ve all screwed up in a way, but if your friends are worth fighting for, then I can’t pretend you haven’t been my friend.”

Gilda gave out a choking laugh before quickly wiping her eyes.

“...You’re too kind to be an ace.”

“No, Gilda. That’s just the way I am. That’s why I represent loyalty. I never forget about my friends... or ex-friends, in your case. But... it’s never too late to change that.”

Rainbow sounded very confident, like she thought about this for quite a while now. She made up her mind. Gilda wasn’t certain what to do... but then, a small grin appeared on her face.

“Huh... Y’know... That last battle with you, Dash... It helped me realize something. I was wrong. I guess ponies aren’t as dweeby as I thought... You are actually kind of... cool.”

Rainbow started laughing. It was a sincere laughter, one that was usually shared among good friends. She stated that hearing those words out of Gilda was like getting a praise from Princess Celestia herself. The other ponies felt relieved when the griffon joined in the laugh. It seemed the tension fell down.

“So, what do you say, G? Wanna start over from square one?” Rainbow asked, stretching her hoof out once more.

“No...”

Gilda couldn’t bring herself to look at Rainbow for a moment. She frowned. But after a few seconds, the griffon turned her sight back to Dash, extending her right claw to grab Dash’s hoof. Her expression instantly lightened up.

“From square zero.”

Rainbow Dash and Gilda reconciled. Unfortunately, the griffon said she couldn’t stay here any longer, as she had decided to aid the others in restoring the southern boundary of the Griffin Kingdom. She thought of it as a kind of “duty”. Rainbow understood that well.

“That’s a good first step, G. I just hope we’ll see other again.”

“You can bet your tail we will,” Gilda replied, turning around and getting ready to fly.

But she folded her wings back and looked at other ponies.

“Oh yeah, before I forget... Which one of you is Medley?”

“I am...” the green pegasus said sheepishly.

“Look, uh... Sorry for breaking your wings back then. And all the trouble I gave you, gals. ... I wasn’t really planning that... but the things worked out that way and not other... so... sorry.”

To hear an apology from Gilda was the last thing Medley could expect. But she decided that there was no point in condemning her for her actions now that she excused for them.

“Well, at least you didn’t ripped my wings off, like you originally intended,” Medley said with a carefree tone.

Everything was now well between Gilda and Rainbow Dash. Only Firefly was still unable to comprehend how could Rainbow actually forgive her former tormentor. Fluttershy seemed uncertain about it, too, but Gilda stretched her wings, ready to go.

“Hey, Dash, one more thing. If we run into each other again... I hope you’ll become even stronger than now... because I won’t be slacking off.”

“I’ll hold you to that, G,” Rainbow replied.

“Then... see you around... buddy.”

Gilda flew up with a squawk and left Canterlot a few minutes later, hoping Zeakros would understand the decision she made. Rainbow Dash followed her with her eyesight. Her friends then came closer and started assaulting Rainbow with questions. They wanted to know why she forgave her.

“I already said why, didn’t I?” the blue pegasus responded with a smile.

“Come on, let’s get ready for the show, girls.”

When she ran off in the direction Twilight headed earlier, Firefly wondered aloud, chuckling.

“I hope that by saying we’re messed up... she meant it in a good way.”

The remaining pegasi laughed as well before they followed Rainbow Dash.

==========

1200 hrs

Canterlot Castle Grounds

In the meantime, Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity and Applejack received a most unexpected, but wonderful surprise. Their families and relatives came to attend the ceremony as well. Applejack was already speaking with a few of her cousins that came from different parts of Equestria. Rarity and Sweetie Belle were having a conversation with a pair of unicorns, their parents. Rarity’s father wore a big hat and a fancy shirt, while her mom had a big, red dress. Fluttershy already played alongside her animal friends that decided to accompany her, with Angel in the lead. Pinkie kept on entertaining Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake. Since the Cakes evacuated from Ponyville, they were getting slightly anxious about Pinkie’s safety. The kids missed her a lot.

However, none of the ponies were as happy as Twilight Sparkle. Not only did she get to see her beloved parents, she even got to see a pony she hadn’t seen for a while, one that she feared she would never see again. As Twilight noticed a big coach reaching the castle grounds, a white stallion with a striped blue mane came out of it. Staring at him in disbelief, Twilight recognized her big brother, Shining Armor.

Ignoring everything else, she dashed toward him, screaming “SHINY!” to catch his attention. The stallion immediately reacted to that voice with a big smile, extending his arms and allowing Twilight to throw herself into his embrace.

“Shiny... It really IS you! I missed you so much, B.B.B.F.F.”

“I missed you, too, Twily,” Shining Armor said.

“You’re probably wondering where we have been all this time, hm?”

“We?”

Shining Armor helped a pink-coated winged unicorn get off the couch. It was Cadance, Twilight’s former foal-sitter and a princess herself! The purple unicorn beamed instantaneously. Together with her husband, Cadance explained that they were being in Dreamstone Castle, a vacation residence for the Royal Sisters near Fillydelphia. It was the place they chose for their honeymoon. Since said location was on the southern end of Equestria and one of few cities completely spared from the ravages of war, the guards stationed there never had to fight. Additionally, all information sources were blocked, so Fillydelphia and its surrounding regions had been pretty much cut off from the rest of Equestria. Shining Armor wanted to return to Canterlot when he and Cadance heard about it being captured by the griffins, but Princesses Celestia and Luna informed them that everything was under control. The captain of the Royal Guards believed them at that time. He seemed relieved that these words ended as true.

Princess Cadance also told Twilight that they are planning to get a secondary apartment in Canterlot, close to one where Twilight’s parents were living. They would stay there during vacations. Once Twilight grasped everything she just heard, she cried in joy. Her mother, father, brother and sister-in-law hugged her and each other tight.

“I’m so happy... You’re all here together... I’m so happy...” Twilight whispered.

Rainbow Dash watched the entire reunion, smiling. She knew her dad as a “globetrotter” type; he liked to travel around the world, stopping in Equestria on occasion. Rainbow wasn’t troubled by his absence.

"If he happened to be around right now, he'd probably say something in the likes of: 'That's my girl! I'm so proud of you!' and fly away after a while..." she thought to herself.

Firefly, on the other hand, felt some sort of inner turmoil as she observed the scene. She noticed that Applejack was talking with her younger sister, Apple Bloom. Firefly couldn’t see the orange pony’s parents anywhere. She decided to talk with her.

As she started coming closer, she heard snippets of conversation between the two sisters.

“Ah gotta get goin’, Applejack. The concert is going to start soon, an’ we’re gonna perform the first number!” Apple Bloom said, excited.

“Ah can’t wait to see it, AB. Run along,” Applejack replied.

“Hey, Applejack... got a moment?” Firefly asked her.

The orange pony turned around and saw Rainbow’s friend. She had a slightly drab expression.

“Sure thing, sugarcube. What’s up? Is something botherin’ you?”

Firefly didn’t said anything at first. She couldn’t bring herself to spit out her thoughts. But Applejack seemed to know what was going on.

“Lemme guess... yer still missing your parents?”

“Yeah, I do... I know that I lost them forever... but I can’t stop thinking about them... When I’m alone, I still imagine them before me... Sometimes I think their deaths were my fault...”

Applejack’s face looked like she just lost her favorite hat. She, of all ponies, knew the pink pegasus’ pain well.

“Y’know, Firefly... you’re ain’t the only pony that lost her parents as a filly. Ah can relate to you, in a way.”

“What?” Firefly lifted her head up. “Are you saying that...?”

“Yeah... My ma and pa are dead, too.”

Firefly was shocked.

“I... I had no idea. I’m sorry...”

“It’s fine. It happened so long ago... after I came back to Sweet Apple Acres from Manehattan,” Applejack told her.

“Granny Smith told me that my ma and pa were terminally ill. Probably a bad case of pneumonia... but Ah’m not even sure of that. They were really overworked, too... I still got the opportunity to show them mah cutie mark... and then, after a few hours... they passed away in their sleep.”

Firefly frowned. She had no idea anypony else beside her would lose parents as a filly.

“It must have been very hard for you.”

“It was. For all of us... We buried them in a tiny wood behind the Acres. We’ve had a hard time... But I didn’t give mahself into despair. Because I knew that I’m not alone. I had... and still have Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, Granny Smith... my cousins... and when I met Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie and Twilight, they became my very best friends. I even think of them as mah own family... I’d want to stay with them as long as possible.”

Suddenly, a bell on the castle has sounded, causing Applejack and Firefly to almost jump.

“The big concert is about to begin!” Applejack exclaimed. “C’mon, Firefly. This is gonna be a great show. Let’s go to the stage!”

“Sure.”

But as they were trotting alongside other ponies, Firefly drowned in her thoughts.

“There’s one difference between us, Applejack... You still have a family. But my parents were the only family I had... I have nopony left... except my friends. And it’s not the same...”

Spike already waited on the scene when ponies from all sides started coming closer. He received a microphone and said:

“Fillies and gentlecolts! Before we begin the concert, please give a warm welcome to our beloved rulers, Princesses Celestia and Luna!”

As the two winged unicorns descended on the stage, standing next to Spike, a small cheer echoed through the crowd. Both Celestia and Luna did not need a microphone to speak loudly. Their voices were clean and adamant.

“My dear little ponies,” the solar princess begun.

“Those past few months were an important trial for us all: a trial that we did not expect. The days were sometimes dark for us. Those were the days when we could have lost faith, days when our allies turned against us. But those days had gone by, like the wind. Much has happened.”

Princess Luna spoke next.

“Today, we stand here together. It is clear that many a heart still hurt. Many tears were shed. But we had overcome the difficulties and emerged from the darkness to the light. We believe that we are closer to each other than ever before.”

“We would like you to remember one important thing,” Princess Celestia continued.

“Though the griffins had been our enemies, many of them were dissuaded by Red Cyclone’s manipulations. Yet they were able to see through his twisted ambitions. Today, the griffins are no longer our enemies. Let me ask you this: is there such a thing as a constant, timeless enemy?”

“No, there is no such thing,” Princess Luna responded.

“Our enemies are only enemies in relative terms. They change, just as the time itself does. Even those who may appear to be clad in darkness can have a small ray of light in their hearts.”

“That is why we are more than pleased to announce that our neighbors from The Griffin Kingdom had become our allies once more,” Princess Celestia rose her wings.

Zeakros had stood up and lowered his head before the two princesses. All griffins who were accompanying him did the same. This gesture convinced ponies who gathered that the tension between the two nations was dealt with. Some even started cheering.

Princess Celestia, along her sister, left the scene, leaving Spike on it. He announced:

“Now, I believe it’s high time that we begin the show! We’ve got a couple of great songs for you to perform by our artists. First off, Cheerilee and her students from the Ponyville Elementary School will present you with a nice number that is sure to lift your spirits up! The scene is all yours, Cheerilee!”

Spike then left the scene. Cheerilee emerged from behind the curtain. When she bowed before the crowd, the drums started to play and the music commenced. The curtain rose, revealing over twenty fillies standing in for a choir, as well as Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Dinky and Pipsqueak in front. They were marching in place to the music before turning around and starting to sing.

“The dark clouds are swimming away

And the sun shines again

Upon the land that we call home

It's just another day

No bullets flying through the air

We’ll always carry on

We won’t turn our sights away

Should danger come again

When we stand together

There's nothing to fear

Side by side forever

That's when we all win

Some tell us everything's alright

And we just go along

How can we fall asleep at night

When something's clearly wrong

But friends are always by our side

And we are not alone

So let us stand here, side by side

United once again

We must stand together

There’s no giving in

Standing strong forever

That's when we all win

The right thing to guide us

Is right here inside us

No one can divide us

When the light is nearly gone

And just like a heartbeat

We will always carry on

When we stand together

There's nothing to fear

Side by side forever

That's when we all win!”

The whole crowd had joined the young singers during the third reprise of the chorus. Rainbow Dash and all ponies from the Mirage squadron sang especially loud. They easily understood the message hidden in the song. It seemed quite obvious to others as well. Everypony was cheering for the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Derpy whistled loudly. Dinky and Pipsqueak then yelled “We love you, Mom!” at the top of their lungs, waving to her. Derpy was deeply moved.

When Cheerilee and the fillies left the scene, Spike resumed calling for other singers to come and perform. The concert continued. All songs had one thing in common: they were warming up the hearts of the ponies. About halfway, the Wonderbolts sang a song about “the wind of hope,” as a sort of tribute to the fallen fliers. Several pegasi, including their former allies during the war, got misty-eyed. They would forever remember one particular moment of the song:

“We see the sorrow in your eyes

They are waiting in the paradise

Don’t be afraid - we will meet them one day

We'll always find our way

Once in the morning, tender and warming,

Wind of hope will wake you up.

Follow our motion, over the ocean

Of the clouds that swim through the sky.”

Upon hearing the song, Rainbow was actually surprised how well Spitfire and Soarin’ could sing. More surprises came for her later when she was called by Spike to come, alongside Fluttershy and all pegasi from the Mirage squadron, on the scene. Those they had befriended over the course of war were already there.

A heartwarming melody, sounding very solemnly, echoed from the big speakers. As Rainbow and her friends were swinging to the music, Sunburst, Quick Chaser, Flare Star, Thunder Flicker, Tornado Swirl and Overdrive sang a song for them:

“When the skies turn dark, when the clouds cover the sun

Seven brave souls will take flight high above

Each of them is different, each one has a distinct trait

But together they form a one of a kind team

Behold the Mirage!

Flying in the sky, they descend in an instant

Never hesitating to take on their enemies

Always together, they are supporting each other

They are our angels, winged heroines of our land

Behold the Mirage!”

Rainbow Dash couldn’t resist to step ahead on the scene along with Fluttershy to drop in some words of their own:

“When the dangers come upon you

We’re never too far away.

Watching from the skies above you

Like guardians, we protect the land we call home.”

When the song ended, a great applause sounded. Each of her friends were enjoying every last moment of the concert, but it was slowly come to an end. The sun was slowly nearing the horizon.

Spike motioned to Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie to go behind the curtain and await for a “given signal.” Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were also told to go there. Princesses Celestia and Luna had a wonderful song left for the finale. One that everypony knew, as it was tied to the Elements of Harmony.

As they waited behind the curtain, the princesses placed the Elements on them, wishing them good performance. Everypony heard Spike’s voice again:

“Our show is coming to an end. So, we need a truly majestic song to end it properly. With our dutiful Royal Guards at the choir and six additional singers, we present you a song which message we should always remember: The Anthem of Harmony!”

After a brief cheer, the orchestra, kept on the right side of the scene, started playing a melody that sounded strangely ominous at first, but, with every new chord, it became more and more triumphant. The guards, with Shining Armor leading them, begun the song:

“When the darkness comes

When the shadows return

Six lights will awake

Guided by their friendship

With the power of

Harmony within them

Together they will

Bring an end to evil!”

The orchestra begun a part that grew consistently more imposing. With every line, the pony whose Element of Harmony was being referenced, entered the scene. As soon as Pinkie appeared, they joined the guards in singing:

“Honesty will fight against any lies

Kindness will aid those overwhelmed by anger

Laughter will wither all sadness away

Generosity will help those in need

Loyalty will strike bravery into the hearts

Magic will then make everything complete!

Rise forth once more!

O Lights!

O Harmony!

With the sun and moon guiding their way

They will always prevail!

Together.

Honesty!

Brave ones

Kindness!

Fear not

Laughter!

You will find your way!

Lift us through

Generous!

Our goal

Loyalty!

lies ahead

Magic!

In souls and hearts!

Rise forth once more!

O Lights!

Spirits of Harmony

Reborn!”

A few ponies, including the Cutie Mark Crusaders started jumping in place during a brief instrumental interlude. But that was only the first half of the song. As orchestra started playing louder and louder, Twilight and her friends were now singing alongside the guards. The crowd joined soon after the chorus begun again. After all, they knew the words well.

“When the darkness comes

When the shadows return

Six lights will awake

Guided by their friendship

With the power of

Harmony within them

Together they will

Bring an end to evil!

Honesty will help stand us firm as mountains

Kindness will save us from the sorrow and despair

Laughter will wash away every tear and frown

Generosity will never let us down

Loyalty will not abandon friends in need

Magic then will make everything complete!

Rise forth once more!

O Lights!

O Harmony!

Nothing is impossible for them

When they will all head in!

Together.

Honesty!

Our path

Kindness!

We shall find

Laughter!

strength in friendship today!

It's our way

Generous!

Lead on

Loyalty!

shunning wrong.

Magic!

Unite as one!

Rise forth once more!

O Lights!

Harmony restored on this day!”

During the final part, all six Elements of Harmony gave out a light, creating a pillar of rainbow at the center of the stage. It soon turned into an array of smaller, blinking lights. The orchestra and the choir had reached the climax of the melody. Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow and Twilight Sparkle sang the final line together, as loud as they could.

“May the power of friendship always

Be with you!”

Their performance was showstopping. All performers let out a big grin as the music hushed down. The crowd gave them a thunderous applause, screams of joy echoed for quite a while until every pony’s’ throats turned sore. When the curtain fell, ending the great concert, Twilight gave the Elements back to Princess Celestia. Talisman, Shamrock, Mobius, alongside Sky Eye and Mirage’s companions came to see them and congratulate for a wonderful performance. Outside, all ponies were diverging. The griffins had also flew away, back to their kingdom.

Spitfire came as well, to see Rainbow Dash. She told her that she would be waiting for her behind the castle. Rainbow’s time had come. Now she would find out if she had what it takes to become a Wonderbolt. Within thirty minutes, she gathered her thoughts and left, ready to begin the test.

==========

1900 hrs

Besides Spitfire, Soarin’ and Firebolt, Rainbow’s friends, her companions from the squadron and the foreign aces were also present on the field which the fiery-maned pegasus chose for Rainbow. Everypony seemed excited. The blue flier was just finishing stretching herself.

“Gimme a sign when you’re ready to begin, Rainbow Dash,” Spitfire said.

Rainbow felt a little nervous. But she received support from none other than Mobius himself. He placed his hoof on her shoulder and smiled. This gave Rainbow the confidence she needed. She returned the smile. Blood started pulsing in her ears. She stood on her rear legs and started ascending. It was the sign. Rainbow was ready. She began her routine.

Every maneuver, every trick, every daring stunt... all those moves she practiced for the past few days could now be shown to Spitfire and her wingmen. Feeling the rush of wind blowing in her mane, Rainbow felt an onrush of wild glee. Ah, what a wonderful feeling it was! Nothing limited her any longer. There was no one else but her in her kingdom: the sky.

As she performed the tricks, ponies on the ground tried their best to follow Rainbow with their eyes, but her insane speed and agility gave Rarity a mild headache. Pinkie kept twisting her neck back and forth, all the while jumping in joy. Rainbow suddenly dived down; it seemed she was about to crash. But right before she touched the ground, she used her wings to stop in place. This move fomented some dust, but it vanished when Rainbow darted upward again. After three minutes of her performance, Rainbow went in for the triple spinning screwdriver. This time, it worked without any problems. She spun wildly while swooping down. Finally, she made a flip and landed on her hooves, posing before the spectators.

The ponies were cheering for her. Spitfire, Soarin’ and Firebolt were clearly impressed. They all approached Rainbow Dash. She could barely contain her emotions. Did she succeed? Or...?

“Nice going, Rainbow,” Spitfire praised her. “I think that was one of the best performances I’ve seen so far. Smooth moves.”

“So I guess that means she’s one of us now, huh?” Soarin’ wondered.

“Soarin’, you know we can’t accept Rainbow the normal way.”

Those words were a cold shower for Rainbow. They can’t?! But... why? What was the reason?

“Yeah, I know,” Soarin’ said.

“Her duties are more important...”

Rainbow asked them if they meant the fact she was working as a weather control pony in Ponyville. But the reason for Spitfire’s decision was different.

“I mean that you represent one of the Elements of Harmony. If you’re going to join us, you may not be able to see your friends again. They need you to protect Equestria from danger. Being a part of us and being a pony who holds the power of the Element are two totally different things. And... I’m sure you would never want to leave them behind.”

“No...” Rainbow said with a dejected voice.

But its volume rose a moment later.

“My friends are the one thing that matters to me the most. I would always stay by them... even if it means giving up on my dreams...”

Applejack, Twilight and Pinkie were especially shocked to hear that. Rainbow pursued her dream all this time... and she wanted to give up on it like that? But suddenly Spitfire beamed.

“That’s what I wanted to hear, Rainbow Dash. You’ve passed your final test.”

Rainbow didn’t know what the Wonderbolt captain meant. She motioned to Firebolt to bring something up. The white pegasus returned with a badge that looked exactly like the symbol of Wonderbolts as well as a bright blue bodysuit with yellow stripes resembling lightning on the legs and back. Spitfire passed it over to Rainbow.

“We haven’t got a chance to thank you for saving our lives on a lot of occasions... including that Best Young Flyer Competition a while back. But I think now the time is right. There’s no need to take you through all the procedures... Rainbow Dash, I am proud to dub thee honorary member of the Wonderbolts!”

Rainbow’s heart jumped. Her eyes quivered. Was it really happening? Did Spitfire really just told her that...?

“Honorary... member...? Somepony pinch me... This must be some kind of dream...” she muttered.

“If this is a dream, Rainbow, then it’s a dream that came true. You have earned it,” Spitfire said to her.

“Come on, everypony! Let’s hear it for Rainbow Dash!”

Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy approached the blue pegasus and flung her into the air several times while they chanted, along with Lightning Bolt, Cloud Kicker, Derpy and Medley:

“Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! She’s the Princess of the Skies!”

Princess of the Skies... When Rainbow returned to the ground, she looked around on her friends. So this was their surprise for her. A big grin formed on her face.

“Whenever you’ll don this costume or wear the badge, you are free to join us on any air show we’ll be on,” Soarin’ stated.

Rainbow looked into the sky before suddenly leaping into the air, squealing in joy. Flinging her arms, she flew upward, spinning. She did it.

“THIS IS... THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFE! WOOHOO! YEAH! HAHA!”

The blue pegasus became overcome with an overwhelming bliss. Those on the ground cheered for her loudly.

But a few moments later, Rainbow’s joy withered a little when she heard that Talisman and Shamrock were returning back to Emareia. Fluttershy slowly approached the green pegasus.

“Shamrock... I’ll be missing you,” she said bashfully.

“I’ll miss you too, little angel,” Shamrock replied.

However, he expressed hopes that Fluttershy and her friends could visit Emareia one day. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker seemed enthusiastic about this proposition. Fluttershy and Shamrock shared a tender goodbye hug. Talisman smiled dimly at this and said to Rainbow:

“We’ll be sure to tell our countrymen about a brave princess from the sky who protected her homeland alongside her companions.”

These words made her blush a little. When the two pegasi that made the Garuda team left, Sky Eye and Mobius were about to leave as well. Rainbow thought that this could be her only chance. She called the blue stallion’s name and came closer.

“Mobius... I know you’re not going to say anything... but I just want to let you know that... It’s been an honor to fly alongside a living legend like yourself. I've learned a lot from you. Thanks.”

Mobius indeed didn’t say a word. He didn’t have to. He took Rainbow’s left hoof and kissed it before lowering his head. This was, without a doubt, a sign of respect. Rainbow’s cheeks turned all red, but when Mobius gave her another smile, she did the same. Sky Eye explained that Mobius’ action means he considers Rainbow Dash as his equal. Rainbow nearly teared up from hearing so much praise about herself, but managed to suppress her emotions.

When Mobius and Sky Eye flew up, they both waved to the ponies on the ground. Right after they vanished on the horizon, Rainbow became surrounded by her close friends. Medley suddenly realized something...

“Hey, did anypony saw Firefly?”

1932 hrs

Firefly walked on the ground after a period of flight. She headed away from Canterlot. Turning her head around, she smiled to herself.

“Great job, Rainbow Dash. Your dream came true... But I am not so lucky. I didn’t wanted to do this... but I can’t find my place here..."

She looked up.

“Mom... Dad... Oh, if only you would be here... I need you...”

Lowering his head, a feeling of grief struck Firefly again. A few tears dripped to the ground.

“Don’t be sad, dear.”

Firefly’s ears perked when she heard that voice. It was a warm voice of a mare... but... there was no way...

“Who’s there?” Firefly exclaimed.

“There is no need for sorrow anymore, Firefly” another voice sounded.

It was different familiar voice... one Firefly hadn’t heard in years...

“What the...? Am I hearing ghosts talk!?”

A bright light flashed before Firefly. She covered her eyes to not be blinded by it. She noticed two figures emerging from it... they seemed transparent... but she could see them clearly.

The pony on the left was a pegasus mare wearing a light blue coat and a straight, violet mane. She had brilliant purple eyes. They had the same shape as Firefly’s... The one on the right was an adult stallion with a brown mane and dark orange coat. Firefly came a bit closer.

“Mom? Dad?”

Both pegasi nodded. Firefly was absorbing them with her sight, feeling a strange blend of happiness and poignant sadness. She tried to reach her hoof out to touch her parents... but it only passed through them. They were smiling on her. Minutes felt like ages.

“My, how you’ve grown, dear,” her mother said softly.

“She became a fine mare, indeed,” her father added.

Their voices were otherworldly, but Firefly was certain they belonged to her parents.

“Mom... Dad... Are you really here...?" Firefly whispered, shaken.

“No, dear,” her mother answered. “We are merely apparitions brought up by your depressed thoughts. We have come to comfort you before departing to the other side.”

“Although... Our assistance may not be required any longer,” her father said. “You have already fulfilled your promise to us by defeating the one who took our lives... But what is more important is that you didn’t killed him in retaliation. You actually forgave him.”

Firefly looked down. Would they berate her for her inability to finish Black Star off?

“I think we can agree, dear, that no parent could be as proud from its children as we are from our Firefly," the stallion said to Firefly’s mother, ”

“Indeed, darling. Firefly...”

She turned her attention back at the pink pegasus who just stood in place, unable to move a muscle.

“What Princesses Celestia and Luna said to you was absolutely true. We have never abandoned you... We guided you through your life. But you have become a responsible, adult pony. It is time for you to move on. Know that we will always be in your heart...”

“Hear us out, my daughter,” her father said. “Equestria is your home. This is where you belong. There is no need for you to fight anymore. You are no longer alone. We know you can feel it. There is a certain pony who would do everything to make you happy. Don’t push it away.”

Firefly wasn’t certain if she was imagining it all, but those voices were so real... the images of her parents weren’t illusions... The two ponies looked around and gazed at the setting sun.

“Look, darling. I have almost forgot how beautiful the sunsets can be," the mare said.

“It’s a nice sight for us to remember as we will depart,” the stallion said.

“What?” Firefly exclaimed.

She noticed the images of the two ponies were becoming less and less visible. They were vanishing, leaving for the pony afterlife. Firefly started running after them, crying.

“No...! No, please! Don’t go! Please, don’t leave me!”

“We will never truly leave you...”

“MOM!”

“You’ve become so strong, Firefly...”

“DAD!”

A few seconds later, they disappeared. Firefly stopped running and slumped to the ground.

“Mom... Dad... please, don’t go...”

“We will always be with you...”

“Be strong, dear...”

Firefly only heard faint echoes of their voices now. She got up from the grass and gazed at the sun. So her parents came to her and gave her their last words. They praised her... it meant so much to her... Now they could rest and await her coming in the world they departed to...

As her mind was swarming with questions and doubts, she heard familiar voices behind her. Her companions from the Mirage squadron were approaching. She turned to them.

“Firefly!” Medley yelled. “How dare you do this to us!”

“I’m sorry, gals... I needed some time. I had to make a choice,” she answered.

She told them about the spirits of her parents appearing before her eyes. While they didn’t seemed to believe it at first, Rainbow didn’t doubt for a moment she was telling the truth. Firefly rested her eyesight on the blue pony.

“That was some great performance there, Rainbow. You totally deserve to fly alongside Spitfire and the other Wonderbolts.”

“Only as long as I want to. I didn't think I would've come this far...” she said.

“Don’t lie to me. You were perfectly capable of doing it.”

Lightning Bolt asked Firefly did she made a choice on what to do next. She did. Rainbow sighed. She came closer to her friend.

“I’m not gonna blame you for leaving Equestria, but... it won’t be the same without you...”

“Who said anything about me leaving?” Firefly asked with a miffed tone.

The pegasi fastened her eyes on Firefly. She grinned. They smiled as well. It could mean only one thing.

“I’m staying. This is my home, after all. I may not have found a place here yet... but I’ll find it eventually.”

But Rainbow Dash put her hooves on Firefly’s shoulders, giving her a most sincere smile.

“Why don’t you live with me? My house is big enough for the two of us.”

Firefly’s expression was that of utter disbelief.

“Besides, you can help me as a weather patrol pony. We’d had twice less work to finish together. And...”

Rainbow suddenly hugged Firefly. She still appeared to be stunned by Rainbow’s words.

“Y’know... back when you helped me against the Talon squadron... I had a feeling that we share a lot of things in common.”

Lightning Bolt looked at the two ponies.

“It’s true. You’re both brave, fast, confident... somewhat reckless,” she finished, giggling.

“Hey... now that you’ve mentioned it... They even look similar! Like twins!” Derpy exclaimed, when her crossed eyes rested on Rainbow and Firefly.

“Except for the fact Rainbow is more colorful,” Medley chuckled.

Rainbow looked into Firefly’s eyes.

“Firefly... It may seem kind of awkward to you, but... I grew attached to you. You’re like... like an older sister I never had! It would be awesome if you would decide to—”

“Not another word!” Firefly said loudly, interrupting Rainbow’s sentence.

The two stared briefly at each other. Firefly lowered her sight for a second. When she looked at Rainbow again, the pink pegasus could feel her eyes were watering.

“... Yes.”

Rainbow seemed positively surprised. Firefly smiled at her through tears.

“I want to stay with you, Rainbow Dash!”

The two pegasi embraced. Their friends watched the scene with expressions of genuine happiness.

“Now I know what my dad was trying to tell me...” Firefly said in a low voice.

“You and I, Rainbow... You are my family. You all are. My friends are my family... Now I understand. I’ve been running away from this the whole time. But no more. Rainbow Dash... I would be very happy to be your twin sister.”

However, the emotions didn’t end there. Twilight’s group alongside Princesses Celestia and Luna caught up to them. Then, Princess Celestia revealed that Rainbow and Firefly are actually cousins. She tried to tell them that earlier, after Canterlot recovered, but due to increasing turmoil from Red Cyclone’s plans to escalate the war, they didn’t have the right opportunity.

“So, that means Firefly is both my cousin... and my older twin sister,” Rainbow said.

“If you want to call Firefly your sister, then we have no objections,” Princess Luna ascertained.

“They are sisters? I knew it! That resemblance between them! It’s too uncanny!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

Everypony present started laughing. Then Rainbow asked Pinkie:

“You still have enough gas in you to make another party? One to welcome Firefly in Equestria?”

Pinkie was overjoyed to hear that. She initially planned to throw up a farewell party, when she learned that Firefly could leave Equestria to continue her journey. But an idea of a welcoming party was very desired by the pink pony.

“Come on, everypony! You’re invited to the Sugarcube Corner! We’re gonna party ‘till we drop!”

Princesses Celestia and Luna promised to transport the ponies to Ponyville in an instant, using their magic. They said goodbye with genuine smiles on their faces before casting a teleportation spell.

==========

June 15th, 2019
0500 hrs
Ponyville

As Pinkie has promised, the party lasted the entire night. When the ponies were about to return to their homes, tired but happy, Rainbow and Firefly headed to the clouds, where the blue pegasus’ house was. Upon seeing it, Firefly let out a mild “whoa”.

Just as they got inside, Firefly’s sight rested on a small pile of books next to Rainbow’s bed.

“You’ve got books here?” she asked.

“But not just any books”, Rainbow said, showing Firefly’s the cover for one of them. It was the first part of the “Daring Do” series, Rainbow’s favorite novels.

“Daring Do and The Quest For The Sapphire Stone? Sounds interesting...”

“If you'd like, feel free to give’em a try. Twilight taught me that reading is not just for eggheads like her.”

Both pegasi yawned loudly. Pinkie’s party put them through their hoops. Yet the expressions on their faces were nothing short of joyful. As Rainbow laid on the bed, Firefly snuggled right next to her. Rainbow laughed.

“That bed will easily fit both of us. We gotta get some rest. Because, from now on, you’ll be helping me with weather in Ponyville. We’re gonna have our first joint weather patrol today at noon. I’m sure you’re gonna enjoy it.”

“Yeah... I can’t wait...” Firefly yawned.

“Y’know what, Rainbow...”

“What is it?”

“You said this was the best day of your life... I think I can say the same. I never felt so happy before... Thank you, Rainbow. Thank you for everything.”

“Hey, that’s what friends... and sisters are for, right?” Dash said, baring her teeth in joy.

“Yeah... you’re right... Good night, Rainbow Dash.”

“Good night, Firefly.”

As the two pegasi drifted to sleep, the sun slowly rose on the horizon.

“Mom... Dad... I’m home. I’m finally home. My journey is finished. And I am not alone,” Firefly thought as she slowly fell asleep beside the pony she would now call her sister.

The sun shined brightly on the Equestrian sky, giving a start for a brand new day.

THE END

Chapter 1: Open War

ACE COMBAT: THE EQUESTRIAN WAR

A morning sun gives rise to a new day,
With crimson dawn, the bullets strike.
Beloved aces are falling down, the danger looms.
A conflict will engulf the peaceful land.

Chapter 1
"Open War”

Equestria... the land of ponies. Always peaceful, never seeking war or conflicts with any other nation of the world. Respecting every race, spreading love and tolerance all around. Time and time again, it rose to the challenge when evil forces struck. Neither the terror of Nightmare Moon nor the chaos spread by the treacherous Discord ever triumphed and were vanquished by the power of Harmony. Peace reigned for years. It used to be like that...

During that time, technology has improved greatly. Ponies, as well as their northern neighbors, the griffins, have designed many useful devices making their lives much easier: special communicators that allowed them to contact each other on long distances, and radars which could detect dangers before they even occurred... In light of these events, both races signed a treaty, declaring to never use these jewels of modern technology for military purposes or, even worse, for war...

However, those peaceful times are coming to an end. A single incident changed the lives of all ponies, plunging whole Equestria into a time of constant struggle and sacrifice. In the danger, chaos and turmoil that engulfed the world, a group of heroic pegasi would rise.

To stand up and defend their homeland…

October 10th, 2018
0654 hrs
Equestrian airspace, The Griffin Kingdom border

Wonderbolts, the finest fliers in all of Equestria, a team of three pegasus ponies, famous for performing incredible stunts at major events, were doing what would seem as another routine flight. But all of them knew that this time there was something else.

The neighboring Griffin Kingdom recently started showing signs of strange activity, which involved tightening the control over their skies and fortifying their cities. Nopony had any idea where this was going, but the Royal Sisters, Luna and Celestia, feared the worst. Considering that most of pegasus ponies were mostly associated with controlling the weather, delivering mail, and other everyday activities, they had little to no scouting experience.

Due to these circumstances, the two princesses entrusted the Wonderbolts with the task of holding a meeting with the ruler of the Griffin Kingdom and finding out what the griffins were up to. As they were slowly approaching the border, one of the Wonderbolts suddenly turned to their leader. It was a female white pegasus with a red mane. Her name was Firebolt, and she joined the Wonderbolts a few months ago. Once she got closer to the flight leader, she asked:

"Do you think the griffins might be up to no good, Captain?” Her voice showed signs of worry.

Spitfire, the pegasus with a fiery mane, didn't respond at first. She too, didn't enjoy this situation one bit. Equestria had been in a period of peace ever since the Royal Sisters begun their rule. Unless one would count the incident where Princess Luna succumbed into jealousy and briefly became the evil Nightmare Moon, forcing Princess Celestia to use the Elements of Harmony and banish her to the moon.

As time passed, the ponies eventually started to see Princess Luna in a brighter light. When she appeared during Nightmare Night, Twilight Sparkle and her friends helped the princess in getting used to new reality after one thousand years of absence. Everypony still remembered these events well... After a while, Spitfire turned to Firebolt and used her communicator that she was wearing so that the white pegasus would hear her over the howling wind.

"I hope not. But they definitely seem suspicious, with all of that sudden fortification. What are your thoughts, Soarin'?" she turned her attention to the male blue pegasus flying by her side.

"Honestly, I don't think they would be preparing something bad. Maybe they’re just doing additional maneuvers or something...like they did a few days ago. Who knows?"

He tried to sound casual now.

“Maybe they’re preparing for some kind of big event?”

While he didn't sound sure enough for Spitfire, his response seemed to lighten her up a little.

"Well, we won't find out until we get there. Speculations won't do us any good. Let's accelerate, Soarin', Firebolt!" the fiery-maned pegasus called out to her partners.

"Roger that!"

With a quick response, the three pegasi increased their flight speed and within a few minutes, they left the Equestrian airspace and were approaching the Griffin Kingdom border.

==========

0730 hrs
The Griffin Kingdom, en route to Pisa

The forests that were common in Equestria started to slowly leave their sights, and became substituted with tall and numerous mountains. Some of their peaks were so high that numerous clouds were either passing right by them, or went through them and dispersed, splitting into more clouds, making it a sight to behold.

Especially for the young Firebolt.

Her period of experience in the Wonderbolts was only eight months, and this was her first major flight outside of Equestria. The three pegasi were circling around the area for several moments, searching for anything that might have looked suspicious, but didn't find anything. It all seemed like it was going to be another false alarm, when suddenly...

"Captain Spitfire!" Firebolt called the fiery pegasus.

"I think I found something! 3,000 feet below us!"

The three aces descended toward the point Firebolt mentioned, and to their surprise, they saw numerous turrets with barrels coming out of them - anti-air guns.

There were about twenty of them. The pegasus ponies started flying around the area, checking the massive turrets and examining them closely. They appeared to be unmanned and out of order. But the sight of so many anti-air turrets sprung anxiety into the Wonderbolts. Could it have meant that, despite the treaty, the griffins would intend to break the oath? These questions swarmed in their minds, and these turrets seemed to have confirmed the worries of the solar princess.

"What in the world...?" Soarin' couldn't believe his eyes. "What are those AA guns doing here? Do these belong to the griffins?"

"Well, obviously sir,” Firebolt remarked. "Were they making them in the past few days? As far as I know, they weren’t preparing for any military training... right?”

“What I want to know is, why there are so many of them?" Soarin’ asked. “Are they trying to cover something up? This is highly suspicious...”

Spitfire approached one of the turrets. It was made of steel, measuring thirty feet tall.

"I don't remember these being stationed here earlier. Strange..." she said. "Maybe we should radio home base. Firebolt, can you do that? Soarin' and I will check the area.”

Firebolt immediately adjusted her frequency to reach Cloudsdale, the city of pegasus ponies, located high in the Equestrian skies. It was full of beautiful houses decorated with immense columns and several of them were adorned with rainbows.

"Come in, Cloudsdale, come in. This is Firebolt of the Wonderbolts, do you read me?" Firebolt asked through her communicator.

The slightly distorted, but hear-able voice answered:

"I read you, Firebolt. It's me, Gale."

The white pegasus smiled.

"Good to hear you, friend. I think we found something really weird here on the border with The Griffin Kingdom."

"Roger that," Gale responded.

While he was associated with the Wonderbolts, he wasn’t officially a part of the team, but served as their additional pair of eyes. His coat was dark red, almost crimson, with astute yellow eyes and cyan mane.

"What did you find?" he asked through the radio, awaiting Firebolt’s response.

"About twenty anti-air turrets placed close to Equestrian border. Not far from the Griffin city of Pisa too,” she reported with grave seriousness.

At first, he heard nothing from Gale, but when the crimson pegasus spoke, his voice was shaking.

"A-A-Are you sure? You're not making it up, Firebolt?"

"I see it with my own eyes, Gale. If I could, I would send you a picture. But you have to believe my words. Soarin' and Captain Spitfire and confirm this, as well."

"Is that true, Captain Spitfire?" Gale turned his frequency to contact the fiery pegasus.

"Uh-huh. It's true,” Spitfire confirmed, looking around her and gazing at the steel fortifications. “And it bothers me to no end. The griffins never told us anything about these. And this is supposed to be their idea of cooperation? It might be a good idea to deliver this information to the Princesses Celestia and Luna. They ought to know what- What the hay?!"

Spitfire's voice suddenly rose in volume and she clearly sounded surprised. Gale wasn't sure about this reaction.

"What's wrong, Spitfire? Come in!"

==========

The Wonderbolts saw that the AA turrets suddenly turned in their direction and lowered their barrels to have them in sight. The guns were aiming at them! With quick thinking, they rose into the air and tried to dodge the incoming firepower. Gale heard the gunfire in his headphones and panicked a little.

"Captain Spitfire! What is going on? Report status!" he yelled.

"We... We're under attack! The guns started to fire at us!" Spitfire shouted, while performing a barrel roll, trying to avoid the attacks. "Inform the other Royal Sisters, on the double! Something is definitely wrong! The turrets don’t appeared to be controlled, but they’re treating us as enemies! It's like they're trying to...!"

A chilling sound of a gun shot suddenly blared in the headphones.

Gale heard nothing, but static. He couldn’t reach Spitfire's team.

“Blast it! I’ve lost the signal! At least I’ve managed to trace it,” he sighed.

After a few seconds, Gale managed to transmit the Wonderbolts’ location, and sent a message to the two pegasus ponies that were with him to go, and help them return back. As the two rookies took flight, he remained in the base, trying to re-establish communication with Spitfire.

"What in the wide world of Equestria is happening...?"

==========

0810 hrs
Equestrian airspace, The Griffin Kingdom Border

A single bullet hit Spitfire in the left leg, but luckily, not the wing. If she would be damaged there, it would prove dangerous for her, and for that matter, any pegasus pony. Not wanting to risk it, she increased altitude and the other Wonderbolts followed suit.

"We need to return back to Equestria, ASAP! Soarin' Firebolt, with me!"

"Got it!"

The three pegasi slowly started leaving the griffin airspace, but the turrets would not cease fire, even though they’ve managed to leave the potentially dangerous range. As they were getting closer to the Equestrian border, Firebolt suddenly noticed two large shapes below them.

"Unidentified fliers below us, Captain. Two of them."

Spitfire reached up to her communicator and tried to contact the two.

"This is Spitfire, Captain of the Wonderbolts. State your ID and purpose."

No one responded to her call in the first few seconds, when suddenly, the two shapes disappeared and the three pegasi heard a churlish voice.

"Did you say... Wonderbolts? You're from Equestria, correct?"

Spitfire's team stopped in midair, and as the clouds in front of them spread, they saw two adult griffins blocking their way. These creatures were two beings in one body: half-lion, half-eagle. They were wearing vests, with the griffin on the left having a black star, and the one on the right bearing a symbol of a red tornado. Both seemed to be in foul moods, yet had strange smiles on their faces. Their sharp beaks and claws gave them an intimidating look.

"That's right," Soarin' jumped in. "We were sent here by the Princesses, Celestia and Luna, to investigate your recent suspicious activities. Would you care to explain this?" he asked the griffins.

They looked at each other for a moment and laughed. The Wonderbolts appeared confused. Then, the griffins turned their attention back to the pegasus ponies.

"So, you were sent to spy on us, eh? No wonder the AA guns opened fire at you. That's what happens to those who would trespass our borders,” said the griffon with the black star on his vest.

"What?" Firebolt said in disbelief. "But, they were inactive when we first came... And what makes you think we’ve come to spy on you? We were told by the princesses to meet with your King, Lightbeak,” the pegasus tried to explain.

“Can you lead us to him and make those turrets stop firing at us?” she asked the two griffins.

They laughed again.

“Seems like you guys didn’t heard the recent news,” the griffon with the red tornado emblem spoke.

“Lightbeak is no longer ruling the Griffin Kingdom. In fact... we changed our policy completely.”

This revelation proved to be unexpected for the Wonderbolts. Spitfire approached them and tried to learn something more.

“What do you mean, Lightbeak no longer rules the kingdom?” she asked.

The griffon with the black star symbol shrugged.

“Simple as that. Let’s just say he had a little... accident.”

Saying this, he started laughing again.

“In other words, we overthrew him," the other griffon joined. "We’re now being led by General Silverbeak. He will undoubtedly lead us into a new, brighter era.”

He seemed to be enjoying every word he spoke.

“You... overthrew him?” Firebolt couldn’t comprehend the statement she just heard.

"Oh, I see where this is going,” Spitfire interrupted. "I just want to make sure... but are you guys preparing for war or something?"

"Spitfire!" Soarin' turned to her. "What makes you say that?"

"Open your eyes, Soarin'!", Spitfire exclaimed. "They were planning this for quite some time. Remember those strange maneuvers you've mentioned before? Those actually resembled military maneuvers. They are preparing for an invasion!"

The griffon with a symbol of a black star on his vest chuckled.

"You catch on quickly. Indeed, we're preparing for war... with Equestria, to be more precise,"

This statement left the Wonderbolts dumbfounded.

"War... with Equestria?" Firebolt mumbled. "But... I don't get it... why?"

"We were just thinking about expanding our territories. It's nothing personal, only business,” the other griffon laughed.

"We had hoped it would've gone unnoticed, but alas..." the first griffon sighed. "Red Cyclone, it appears we have no choice, but to take them down," he told his companion.

“You’re right, Black Star,” the second griffon nodded. “Consider it an honor. We’ll let you witness the might of the Gryphus Elite Squadron!”

And without warning, he rushed toward Spitfire’s team.

"Spread out and take it to them!" Spitfire ordered her teammates.

They still seemed shocked, but heard the orders and dodged the griffon's attack. His partner joined in the fray and a fight commenced between the pegasi and their attackers.

"Do you have any idea what you're doing?" Spitfire asked Black Star that she took on by herself. "I'm sure there's a peaceful way that can solve this issue."

"Too bad,” the griffon replied.

"A peaceful agreement won't do. And by expanding our territory, we don't mean it just by settling on your lands... but more."

Spitfire's eyes widened in surprise.

"More? What...? Are you planning to invade Equestria and take it over?!" she exclaimed.

"Ah. You're pretty smart for a pony. It's a pity we can't cooperate," Black Star chuckled.

Spitfire smiled mischievously.

"Well, thanks for that info. We've already managed to inform our superiors about it, though. I assure you, this act will not go unnoticed."

Black Star appeared to be unmoved.

"It doesn't matter. Only you and your two companions are the real threat to our campaign. Once you're out of the picture, this war we'll be a breeze."

Hearing those words, Firebolt broke away from Red Cyclone that she engaged with Soarin’
and flew toward the other griffon.

"You'll have to take us down, first!"

As she said it, he rammed Black Star with full power in the side. The griffon appeared to have been fazed by the impact, but only barely. He quickly retaliated with a vicious claw slash, wounding Firebolt badly in the chest. Seeing this opportunity, Red Cyclone broke away from Soarin' and rammed into the pegasus from behind. She started to plummet down.

"Firebolt!"

Soarin' tried to save his comrade by flying to her and grabbing her tail. But the griffins were faster. Soarin' was attacked without mercy. The two Wonderbolts fell down and crashed at the nearby mountain, tumbling downward and hitting the ground with large impact force. Spitfire watched this in horror, but to her relief, they were still alive. She took on both griffins alone and tried her best, even managing to deal a severe blow to Black Star. But their combined might proved to be overwhelming for the Wonderbolts' leader. She fell and crashed to the ground not far from Firebolt and Soarin'. The two griffins looked at them from the sky and gloated.

"That takes care of the Equestrian aces. Let's report back to our superiors," Black Star ordered.

“Our general will be quite pleased. In fact, that was easier than I thought it would be,” Red Cyclone remarked. “The rest of the pegasus ponies are almost total wimps. This war will be over too quick.”

==========

0917 hrs
Canterlot Castle

They left the airspace, but unbeknownst to them, the two pegasus ponies sent by Gale managed to locate and retrieve the wounded Wonderbolts. The fliers were transported to Ponyville, where Nurses Redheart and Tenderheart took them under medical attention. Their diagnosis wasn't pleasant; the three pegasi suffered numerous bruises and had broken wings, rendering them unable to fly for quite some time.

On the bright note, their lives weren’t in danger. They were soon relocated back to their home city of Cloudsdale. In the meantime, Gale made his way to the Canterlot Palace and reported everything to the Royal Sisters, Celestia and Luna. The latter was clearly shocked by the griffins’ actions, but Celestia remained stoic through most of the time. And yet, even her face had clearly visible anxiety on it.

"I was fearing this day would come,” she finally spoke after Gale finished his report. "They have been acting very aggressive lately.”

“My apologies, Princess Celestia,” Gale spoke nervously.

“But this is all too strange. I simply can’t understand why the griffins would overthrow King Lightbeak. He was a good monarch...”

Celestia knew Lightbeak for several years. He, indeed, governed his kingdom quite well, making it renowned in the world as a place of pride and natural wonders. There could be only one option.

“A coup d’état,” she guessed.

“Perhaps some renegade griffins rebelled against their ruler and thought they can create a better kingdom by using force,” she spoke those words with clear disgust.

It reminded her of the times when Equestria was ruled by the vile ruler of chaos, Discord. It took the combined efforts of the Royal Sisters to end his reign. Now Celestia hoped to find a solution in this dangerous situation as well...

The white unicorn pegasus tried to collect her thoughts and think of best actions for the coming hours.

“Without the Wonderbolts, the griffins will be having air superiority. It's a perfect opportunity for them to declare open war on us..."

"War... in Equestria? But, Sister! Isn't there anything we can do?"

Celestia turned to her younger sister and shook her head in denial.

"I'm afraid not, Luna. We once swore that, unless directly challenged, we would not openly wage any war. All we can do is lend some strength and courage to our ponies."

Luna appeared depressed. But she didn't disobey her sister's decision.

Celestia then turned to Gale.

"Announce this to every pony in Equestria: We must be prepared for the incoming invasion of The Griffin Kingdom. Make sure all available and adult pegasus ponies will be ready to defend our skies from the incoming enemy. I shall alert the earth ponies. Luna, assemble the unicorns. We need to form an actual military organization to prepare for the conflict. Although I never thought this day would actually come..."

The moon princess nodded and left the chambers to warn her subjects of the impending attack.

"It is only a matter of time before the griffins will invade us," Celestia thought to herself, after Gale left, too.

"This will be Equestria darkest hour... and yet, deep in my heart, I believe that heroes will rise.”

The sun princess looked into the horizon, where the sun was rising with a sinister red glow. The conflict that would eventually be known as The Equestrian War was set to begin soon...

==========

Meanwhile...
0952 hrs
Equestria Eastern Border

A single young adult pegasus pony, bearing a pink coat, a short blue mane and an identically colored tail, had just passed by the town of Trottingham. She stopped in midair, landed on one of the fluffy clouds that were in the sky and took a glance around her.

She needed to make sure that this is indeed the land she used to call home. She noticed familiar buildings and, as she looked down from the clouds, she even saw several ponies she used to know in her youth.

“Equestria... I’ve finally returned,” the pink pegasus thought to herself.

“I only hope that I’m not too late. Something big is going to happen soon. And if I’m correct...”

Her purple eyes gazed at the distance. before she started flying forward again.

“... then we’re in for a wild flight.”

Chapter 3: First Flight

Amidst the blue skies, the heroines begin their mission.

Yet one of them is reluctant to fight.

Is it fear or uncertainty? Can she overcome her doubts?

To protect others is what her heart desires.

Chapter 3

"First Flight”

October 14th, 2018
0830 hrs
Cloudsdale, Mirage squadron’s baseIt took Firefly a couple of days to get to know each of her new friends. She instantly took a liking toward Lightning Bolt, seeing her as a really smart pony with a knack for technology, just as she claimed. Cloud Kicker proved to be a joyful pegasus, who could lift up the morale of others with a simple smile and never left Lightning Bolt’s side.

However, Firefly was still not sure about Fluttershy being a part of the team. She thought of her as “too kind to be a fighter.” The yellow pegasus was just speaking with Rainbow Dash about it.

“Um... Rainbow, I think Firefly... doesn’t enjoy my company. Do you think she-”

But before she could finish, Rainbow Dash turned to her.

“Don’t let her get to you. She needs to get to know you better. Firefly may say whatever she wants, but our team would not be complete without you, Fluttershy. I’m sure Lightning and Cloud would agree with me.”

Fluttershy was still uncertain.

“But, she’s our... leader, Rainbow. If she says I’m not fitting the team... then... maybe... I should leave...”

“You won’t leave, as long as I have something to say in that matter, Fluttershy,” said Rainbow.

“She may be our leader, but everypony in the team is equal. Our opinions matter. You should stop worrying so much.”

Before Fluttershy could respond, Firefly’s voice could be heard echoing from the distance:

“Hey, you! What are you doing here?! You don’t have permission to enter our base! Leave now or face the consequences!”

The two pegasi looked at each other.

“Do you think we’re under attack, Rainbow?”

“Nah, somehow I don’t think so. Still, we should check it out.”

They flew outside to see Firefly yelling toward a big purple balloon that started approaching their base.

“What’s with all the fuss, Firefly?”, Rainbow asked the pink pegasus.

“Don’t you see? We have an intruder. And it doesn’t seem to be responding to my calls.”

Rainbow took a closer look at the balloon. She’d seen it before, and so did Fluttershy, who said:

“Um... I don’t think that’s an enemy, Firefly. We... I mean, Rainbow and I know who might be in that balloon.”

Firefly turned to Fluttershy.

“Then tell me; who could be coming here at this time?”

Instead of responding, the yellow pegasus flew toward the balloon with a smile. When she got close, she said:

“Rarity, what brings you here?”

The head of a white unicorn with a purple mane appeared in the basket of the balloon. She seemed to be slightly uncertain.

“I’ve brought something for everypony here, but I can’t land. That pink pegasus... Firefly, was it? She says I don’t have a permission.”

“I’ll take care of this issue,” Fluttershy assured her.

She went back to Rainbow and Firefly to tell them about the visitor. Initially, Firefly still looked suspiciously at the balloon, but after a while, she agreed to let it land. When Rarity got out of it, she easily stood on the clouds, surprising everypony... except for Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, who’d seen it before.

==========

“It’s Twilight’s magic. She casted a cloud walk spell on me, so that I could come and give you this,” Rarity explained.

She then used her own magic to bring up a small chest from the balloon basket and opened it before the five pegasi. They looked at the content in awe: inside, there were five vests, each colored differently, but all of them were bearing a symbol of a sun and moon fused together on an orange and dark, starry background.

“Wow, those look great!” Lightning Bolt exclaimed. “Are those for us, Rarity?”

“Indeed, darling,” the unicorn responded.

“I thought that since you’re all a team, maybe you could use these vests that I’ve been making for the past two days. Each of them is colored-coded for your convenience. The pink one will be Firefly’s, the blue one belongs to Rainbow Dash, the white one is for you, Lightning Bolt, the violet one goes to Cloud Kicker, and the yellow one will be Fluttershy’s. Go ahead, try them on!”

As Rarity helped the pegasi put on their vests, they looked at them with excitement. Cloud Kicker noticed they all had the same symbol on them and asked the unicorn what it meant.

“This symbol you see is the flag of Equestria. The sun and moon represent day and night, respectively. Princesses Celestia and Luna decided to make it look like that, because they said that they will guide our way,” Rarity told the team.

Everypony reflected quietly upon that, but Firefly merely approached Rarity and gave the white unicorn a friendly grin.

“Sorry for that earlier misunderstanding. That’s very generous of you, making those vests for us. Thanks.”

Rarity smiled.

“Well, it’s somewhat of my duty as the Element of Generosity, after all.”

Firefly widened her eyes in question.

“Element of... what?”

Cloud Kicker came closer to her.

“Come on, don’t tell us you never heard about the Elements of Harmony! Even me and Lightning Bolt know that old legend.”

“Then maybe you could fill me up on it-”

When the pink pegasus suggested it, despite, naturally, knowing that legend, like every pony in Equestria, suddenly the alarm siren went off. Firefly quickly flew toward the main room, which the pegasi called “Mission Control.” It contained several devices that allowed them to determine the location of upcoming enemies and receive messages from other ponies.

Firefly stood there for a while, apparently reading out data, and then turned to the others.

“Or you can do it while we’ll be on our way. Gale just sent a message. It says that some griffins are moving in toward Hoofington.”

“Do we know what they’re up to?” Lightning Bolt asked.

“He’s still working on that, but whatever it is, it can’t be good. Everypony, assemble at the main runway. It’s time for our first flight!”

They all followed Firefly, but Fluttershy was still reluctant to go. Rarity saw that.

“Darling, you should hurry. You don’t want to be left behind, do you?”

“No...” Fluttershy responded quietly. “But something inside me... I don’t know, I just think... that it’s not right. This war shouldn’t have happened in the first place.”

Rarity approached Fluttershy and gave her a friendly smile.

“What you do, you do to protect Equestria. Don’t forget that, Fluttershy. The safety of many creatures depends on you. I know you have it in you. You would never let anyone harm your friends, right?”

Fluttershy shook her head, but didn’t said a word. She appeared confused.

“Just go with them. You’ll be fine. Believe in yourself and the others,” Rarity advised Fluttershy.

The yellow pegasus soon followed the rest of the team.

Rarity did too, as she got back in the balloon, about to return to Ponyville, but not before seeing Firefly and the others take off.

“Alright, team! Let’s do some standard start-up procedures before we go!” Firefly announced to her wingmates.

She then gave each of them a small device with a microphone and an ocular that displayed various indicators, including speed and altitude - a communicator.

“When you report something through it” - saying this, the pink pegasus pointed her hoof at the device she had on her left ear, and which the other ponies also put on - “be sure to state your call sign. We should be doing this to avoid confusion. OK?”

The other ponies agreed and prepared for takeoff. “Alright, then! Testing!” Firefly turned her communicator on.

“This is Flash, speaking. Is everypony ready?”

The rest of the team started responding.

“Rainbow here! Everything’s A-OK.”

“This is Thunder. Ready to fly!”

“Sunny reporting! Read you loud and clear!”

“Butterfly here. I’m OK.”

“Good, that’s the way you do it, team,” Firefly praised her wingmates.

“OK, Mirage squadron, to the skies!”

Saying this, all five pegasi started running and within a few seconds, spread their wings and took flight. Rainbow Dash flew by Firefly’s side in the center, with Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker by the sides. Fluttershy remained in the back.

Rarity watched them as they took off and begun heading in the direction of Hoofington. It was quite far, and nothing about the griffins’ movements were certain. But the white unicorn remained optimistic.

“Good luck everypony... be careful out there,” she thought to herself, before making the balloon descend back to Ponyville.

The Mirage squadron soon vanished from her sight.

==========

1040 hrs
Equestrian airspace, en route to Hoofington

As the pegasi were making their way toward one of the farthest pony towns on the east, Firefly spoke to her friends.

“So, can you fill me up about those Elements of Harmony?”

“Sure we can, but I’m surprised you haven’t heard of them, Firefly,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Gimme a break. I haven’t been in Equestria for five years. Did something really major happened when I was away?” “It sure did. Long story short, Fluttershy and I were a part of a team who defeated the ancient Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon. We were chosen due to our spirits representing the Elements of Harmony. I’m the spirit of Loyalty, while Fluttershy is the spirit of Kindness. Rarity, that you’ve seen earlier, is the spirit of Generosity. There’s also Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle; they represent Honesty, Laughter and Magic. All of us six together used the power of the Elements to purge Nightmare Moon and save Equestria from eternal night. And when later Discord had broken free of his stone prison, we had a lot of problems with him, but eventually managed to turn him back to granite. If it weren’t for Twilight, though, we could have not make it.”

A brief silence ensued, and only the howling wind could be heard for a few seconds. The pink pegasus tried to collect her thoughts. Did Rainbow just said that she and her friends defeated both Nightmare Moon and Discord, the god of Chaos? Firefly finally said:

“Yeah... I find that hard to believe, though.”

Lightning Bolt moved closer to her. “I thought you’d say something like that. Cloud Kicker and I heard about the legend, but we didn’t really believe in it. That is, until the day we saw Princess Luna alongside Princess Celestia in Ponyville. After we witnessed Nightmare Moon coming back, we came to the conclusion that Luna was possessed by some kind of evil power... We don’t how it worked exactly, but what Rainbow Dash says is true,” the white pegasus assured

Silence fell again for a short moment. Firefly remembered the stained-glass windows she saw in the castle. Perhaps they were indeed showing Rainbow and her friends. She then remarked:

“Well, truth or not, I’m sure both Rainbow and Fluttershy have talents that will help us in this war. I’m counting on all of you, though. Remember, we’re a team and need to work together.”

“Roger that!” other ponies responded. Within the next thirty minutes, they were finally approaching Hoofington’s airspace. It would seem that the griffins hadn’t showed up yet. The pegasi took a look below them and saw the town, prospering with life as usual...

“They appear to know nothing about the upcoming attack. Maybe we should leave it like this,” Cloud Kicker suggested.

“Definitely a good idea,” Firefly agreed. “Let’s see... We might be able to ambush the griffins easily. We’ll wait for them in the clouds. Thunder and Sunny, you take the left side. Rainbow and Butterfly, the right side is yours.”

“And what will you do, Flash?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, somepony’s gotta take the middle...” Firefly responded.

The pegasus ponies started to hide in the clouds and wait for the upcoming enemies. Lightning Bolt had a small detector with her that allowed them to know the exact numbers of attackers and their destination. She took a moment to analyze it.

“Five bogies detected at vector 205, closing in. Altitude 7,000 feet and decreasing. They’re coming”, she reported.

“Stay on your positions, everypony. We’ll wait for them, and then attack,” Firefly ordered.

As time was passing by, Fluttershy approached Rainbow Dash and whispered to her.

“Rainbow, can I have word with you?”

“Er... now’s not the best time, Fluttershy,” the rainbow pegasus answered.

“I know... but... I need to tell you something... I’m a little scared... and uncertain. I don’t think we should be doing this. Isn’t there a peaceful way to solve this conflict? I mean...”

Rainbow turned her sight at Fluttershy.

“Look, I know what you’re trying to say, Fluttershy. But this is reality. We’re at war with the griffins. And they don’t seem to want any negotiations.”

She saw that Fluttershy was still unsure. She leaned closer to her.

“Just stay close to me, and nothing will happen to you. OK?”

“O-OK.”

“Here they come!” Firefly’s voice sounded in the communicators. “Get ready.”As told by Lightning Bolt, five griffins came up.

They weren’t the Talon squadron that Firefly and Rainbow Dash fought against a few days back, but they, too, were wearing vests with numbers on them, meaning it could be a different team of aces. The vests were colored blue and had numbers 7-12.

One of them, bearing number 10, stopped, and the rest did the same.

“I think we just arrived in Hoofington airspace. You know what to do,” his voice sounded harsh.

“But sir,” the griffon with number 8 asked, “is that really necessary?” “We don’t question the orders from our superiors, Axe. I don’t like the idea of kidnapping fillies and using them as hostages, either... I mean, that’s not the warrior’s way. But an order is an order, and we must execute it!”

==========Firefly and her team were shocked when they overheard the griffins talking. They would resolve to kidnap little ponies and use them as hostages? This angered Rainbow Dash greatly, and she was about to attack, but Firefly motioned to her to stay put and wait for the occasion.

“In any case,” griffon with #10 continued, “we should check the area before we begin.”

His eyes glanced at the clouds around.

“Our intelligence believes a group of pegasus ponies may be on their way to intercept us.”

“But there isn’t anyone here,” the griffon with #12 argued.

“We should stop wasting time and get to work. The sooner we start, the sooner we’ll return to base.”

The leader turned to his comrade.

“Something’s wrong, Greyback? Don’t tell me you’re scared of those pegasi.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Zeakros! But you, of all griffins, should know how unreliable our intelligence can be!”

“Need I remind you what happened to the Talon squadron?” Zeakros pointed out.

“We should scout the area before we begin our mission. To make sure the enemy won’t ambush us.”

“That won’t be necessary, fellas! You already fell for our trap!”Firefly’s exclaim was a signal for the Mirage squadron to reveal itself from the clouds. The griffins were taken completely by surprise.

“We heard everything! There’s no way in hay we’ll let your plan of kidnapping fillies work!” Rainbow Dash yelled.

Zeakros turned to her.

“It’s not like we enjoy that order... But, it’s our duty. We will not let you, wimpy ponies, stop us. Northwind squadron, assume battle formation!” he ordered to his wingmen.

In a matter of moments, they formed a characteristic V-shaped formation and prepared for attack. Firefly signaled for other ponies to form a similar pattern, and take each of the griffins by themselves. Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker took on griffon with #7 on his vest and Axe.

They fought with equal strength, but despite their raw power, the griffins could not compare to Lightning Bolt’s swiftness. She repeatedly rushed toward her foes with Cloud Kicker attacking from the other side, confusing her opponents. Within a few moments, both feathered warriors seemed to be worn out. Lightning figured that now would be the best time to try out her new trick.

She then nodded toward Cloud. The purple flier returned the nod. Lightning Bolt started moving at high speed toward the griffins, zig-zaging in a rapid succession. It made her resemble an actual lightning. Cloud Kicker circled around Axe and #8, confusing them more. They didn’t notice Lightning Bolt ramming into them with intense force. She was aided by Cloud in the attack. Both soldiers took heavy damage and decided to retreat. The two pegasi clashed their hooves, as a “high-five.”

“That was awesome, Lightning Bolt!” Cloud Kicker exclaimed. “Was that the move you’ve been practicing lately?”

“Uh-huh. I think I’ll call it ‘Shining Spark,’ the white pegasus answered.

“Sounds cool! Now, let’s go help the others. I’ll go help Fluttershy, while you aid Firefly!”

“Roger that!”

The two pegasi split.Fluttershy clearly didn’t want to fight against the griffon who had #11 on his vest. She reduced herself to avoiding all of his attacks, but never tried to counter, even at the best possible moments. It left the griffin himself ponder about her actions, but when he asked her why she refuses to fight, Fluttershy didn’t respond.

She noticed Cloud Kicker coming closer and heard her voice in the communicator.

“Hey, Butterfly, looks like you could use some help! Listen, I’ve got a plan. Try to confuse him by flying around, then quickly dive down. I’ll attack him from the top and send him to you. Then, you’ll knock him out. You got it?”Cloud Kicker explained it rather quickly, but Fluttershy muttered a single “OK,” because she didn’t wanted to disappoint her friend. She begun to fly around the griffon, prompting him to try and claw her, but the yellow pegasus managed to remain swift enough to avoid the blows. After a moment, when she saw Cloud signaling that she’s ready, Fluttershy suddenly flew down, confusing her opponent. Cloud Kicker literally crashed into his head, hitting him with her hind legs and sending him down.

But as he was approaching Fluttershy, she hesitated. She couldn’t bring herself to harm him. She moved out of the way, allowing him to recover. Fluttershy feared he would retaliate now, but instead, the griffon decided to flee, seeing that he was at a disadvantage.

Cloud Kicker flew closer to Fluttershy and looked concerned.

“Hey, what happened? I thought you were going to finish him.”

Fluttershy’s voice was shaking when she answered.

“I couldn’t... I couldn’t do it... I’m sorry, Cloud Kicker....”

She patted the yellow pegasus on the back.

“It’s OK, I’m not mad. At least we’ve made him retreat. And look! It seems we managed to win!”

She pointed to Firefly, dealing a heavy blow to Zeakros. He staggered backwards.

“Dang! You’re not bad! We’ll fight again! Retreat, back to Gryphus, everyone!”

With slight reliefs on their faces, the griffins left the airspace. The ponies were cheering, but Fluttershy wasn’t happy. Firefly asked Cloud Kicker for details. She decided to tell her everything in the base.

==========

1350 hrs
Cloudsdale, Mirage squadron’s baseThe pegasi ponies were analyzing their battle assessment after they came back to Cloudsdale. Firefly walked back and forth, reading out the details, with other ponies listening carefully. After a few minutes, she stopped and turned to them.

“I must say, you girls have potential. In the end, nopony in Hoofington felt troubled about our presence, and they seemingly didn’t notice anything. In other words, we’ve managed to stall the invasion for a while. Good job.”

The team responded with a simple salute. However, Firefly wasn’t finished yet.

“But, the fact that griffins tried to kidnap fillies as hostages is quite disturbing. We should inform the princesses and leaders of other squadrons. Thunder, Sunny” – she pointed at Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker – “can I count on you two in that matter?”

The two pegasi saluted and soon, Cloud headed for Canterlot to speak with the Royal Sisters, while Lightning went to Mission Control to send the message to other leaders, leaving Firefly, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy in the briefing room. The pink pegasus squinted her eyes.

“Now, let me ask you, Fluttershy: why did you refuse to fight your enemy?”

Fluttershy was downright scared. She feared Firefly would now ultimately reject her as a part of the team. But, she still believed that the griffins weren’t evil.

“I... I just couldn’t! It’s not right! We shouldn’t be fighting against them! This war shouldn’t be happening at all! This all must be some kind of-” Before Fluttershy could finish, Firefly approached her and looked at her angrily before slapping her in the cheek, almost making her fall on the floor.

“Wake up, you moron! Didn’t you hear what they said?! They planned to kidnap little fillies! Those kinds of actions outright prove how evil they are! And yet, you still think they are not?!”

Fluttershy was trembling in her hooves. Rainbow decided to stand up to her again. “Firefly, they said they didn’t enjoyed that order, either. Whoever came up with it probably has some grudge against the ponies. But I don’t think it’s fair to make all griffins look like that one.”

Firefly turned to Rainbow now. “Don’t tell me what is fair! Are you saying there is no “right” in this war? No, there is! We fight to protect our land from the invaders. And if either of you doesn’t approve of my methods or the way I’m thinking, you’re free to leave our team! I’m sure there will be other pegasi willing to take your place!”This outburst of anger left Rainbow Dash concerned about Firefly. But she couldn’t come up with a response. Instead, she heard Fluttershy sobbing. When she lifted her head, her green eyes were full of tears.

“I knew I don’t belong here... I’m sorry that I failed you.... Goodbye.”Fluttershy flew away from the base before Rainbow Dash could stop her. The blue pegasus glared at Firefly. “Way to go, Firefly! I warned you; she doesn’t take war nicely! But you just HAD to screw it up!”

“Hey, I never forced anyone to stay,” the pink pegasus defended herself. “If she wants to leave, it’s her decision.” “And that’s where you’re wrong, leader! YOU made her leave! You simply brushed her aside, just because she refused to hurt the griffon. So what? We still managed to win.”

Firefly glared at Rainbow, too. “So, you want to follow her? Go ahead.”

“No, you’ll be the one to go after her, Firefly! Tell her you’re sorry and make her come back!”

“And why should I do that?”

Rainbow was really frustrated, but tried to reason calmly. “Firefly, Fluttershy has real talent. Maybe not exactly for fighting, but we’ll be needing her if we’re going to save Equestria. Believe me, she would not turn her back on anypony in need. You just need to accept the fact that she doesn’t like violence that much. I made wrong judgments about Fluttershy in the past, until I saw what she can really do. Please, Firefly.”

The pink pegasus saw the concern in Rainbow’s eyes. She backed away, and her ears flopped down, indicating she felt regret on what she had done. “Y’know... maybe you’re right, Rainbow. Maybe I was too harsh. Fine, I’ll bring her back. And I’m sorry for that outburst, but trust me, I have a good reason to act toward griffins like this.”

“Maybe we’ll find out one day,” Rainbow remarked. “She probably went to her cottage. It’s on the edge of Everfree Forest.”

Moments later, Firefly went after Fluttershy, still feeling bad that she shouted at her like that.

==========1422 hrs

Fluttershy’s cottageFluttershy slowly descended to her home. Her mind was full of doubts, and she had the urge to come back, yet thought that it would only make Firefly even angrier. But as she reached the door of her cottage, she suddenly started hearing voices. Male voices. One of them was clearly disappointed.

“Bah! It’s not here, either! Where is that Element of Harmony?”Fluttershy jumped. Someone is looking for her Element of Harmony! She didn’t knew for what reason, but she knew they would never find it in her cottage. The Elements were hidden in Canterlot Castle, protected by Princess Celestia’s powerful magic that only she could remove.

The yellow pegasus was anxious, but continued to eavesdrop on the conversation.

“Those griffins from intelligence should be fired. Their information is so unreliable.”

“Quit your whining. Just keep looking,” the other voice was calmer.

“Well, at least we took care of those annoying animals. I don’t get what ponies see in them, they only get in the way.”At this moment, Fluttershy couldn't bear it any longer. She bursted through the door, but almost immediately froze in terror. Inside her cottage were two griffins, who apparently trashed the place while looking for her Element of Harmony. She saw several unconscious animals lying on the floor, among them was her pet bunny, Angel.Something broke inside the pegasus’ soul, her delicate heart was pounding... She glared intensively at the griffins, who appeared to be amused by her sudden entrance.

“Hey, I think that’s the pony who lives here.” “No, really?” the other griffon remarked sarcastically. “Hey, you!” he yelled to Fluttershy. “We know that you’re hiding the Element of Harmony here. We were sent here to give it to our superiors. Are you going to tell us where it is, or should we do this the hard way?”But Fluttershy wasn’t listening. Her eyes started filling up with tears again. But this time, they weren’t tears of sadness. They were tears of anger. She couldn’t stand seeing her animal friends treated like this. The face of a normally quiet pony suddenly turned furious. “How dare you? How DARE YOU! You... you barbarians! What have you done to my friends!?”The griffins were caught off guard by Fluttershy’s yell. She started approaching them, staring deeply into their eyes. They both started feeling more and more uncertain the closer the yellow pegasus came to them. When she was literally touching the feathers on their chests, she said out loud:

“Leave this place at once! Leave, and NEVER! COME! BACK!”The griffins panicked, seeing a normally timid pony being this angry. They quickly turned around and fled. Within a few moments, her anger boiled down, and Fluttershy went to help the animals.

Firefly was just on her way to Fluttershy’s cottage, when she noticed two griffins flying from below. She prepared herself for a seemingly unavoidable fight, but they passed by, ignoring her presence. She heard them talking, though.

“Man, that pegasus pony freaked me out!”

“You tell me! Those eyes...!”Firefly was dumbfounded, but she processed those sentences as a proof that griffins were in Fluttershy’s house. She increased speed and soon landed.

“Fluttershy! Are you OK?” the pink pegasus shouted.

She came inside and saw the yellow pegasus tendering the hurt animals.

“What... what are you doing here, Firefly?”Fluttershy’s voice was shaking again. It was understandable, due to the emotions she experienced in the past few minutes. Firefly came closer. She spoke slowly. “I’m... I’m sorry that I gave you such a verbal beatdown. It’s just that I have bad experiences with griffins from the past... I don’t feel like telling anypony about the details now, but I will, in time... I’m really sorry, Fluttershy,” the pink pegasus lowered her head in shame.

Fluttershy didn’t say anything. For a while, she simply glanced at the miserable, sad figure of Firefly... Her entire vigor and determination seemingly withered away. Fluttershy suddenly realized something: this pegasus before her must have received some harsh treatment in her life. She felt sympathy.

The yellow pegasus approached Firefly and nuzzled her face. Thinking she will be slapped in a retaliation, Firefly lifted her sight. But, to her surprise, the timid pegasus gave her a hug. Fluttershy then said, with a gentle voice:

“It’s alright. I don’t blame you, Firefly. It was partially my fault, too. But... But, I will make amends. I promise you. I will do my best to protect Equestria from the invasion... Maybe eventually, we’ll find a solution to this problem.”

Firefly felt comforted by Fluttershy’s words. Hearing her heart pounding, she smiled and returned the hug. She then remembered about the two griffins that went past her.

“Say, those two feathered chumps... I saw them leaving in a hurry. What happened?”

“They... they were looking for my Element of Harmony, but they would never find it here anyway. They hurt my friends while doing so and... it made me... angry. So, I used The Stare and... they just left.”

Firefly couldn’t help, but laugh. But it wasn’t a mocking laugh, rather one filled with praise. She finally understood what Rainbow Dash meant about the Elements of Harmony. There was no doubt in her mind that Fluttershy was a spirit of kindness in the flesh.

“In one thing you're right, Butterfly. If there’s a way to end this war, we’ll do it together... as Mirage squadron.”

“Does that mean I can come back?” Fluttershy asked.

Firefly pointed at the vest the pegasus had on her the whole time.

“But you’ve never left. As long as you have this vest, you’re a part of our team. And I’m glad you didn’t take it off. Come on, let’s go back.”

Fluttershy quickly checked on her animal friends, fearing some were needing additional care. Besides, the cottage was a mess. Firefly decided to offer her assistance to the green-eyed mare. She gladly accepted.

Within about two hours, everything was nice and tidy again. Satisfied, Firefly once again told Fluttershy to follow her back. The yellow pegasus asked Angel to watch over her friends, to which he responded positively. The two pegasi flew back to Cloudsdale, with their worries and doubts casted aside. Both of them learned something more about each other. Firefly knew she had to be a bit gentler toward Fluttershy, while the yellow pegasus assured her that she would no longer hesitate to help her friends in the face of danger.

There was just that one thing which Firefly hadn’t mentioned to her friends. Something that was tormenting her for the last few years... an unfinished business from the past... and a true reason for her return to Equestria.

Chapter 14: Flicker of Hope

Reinforced by the presence of the aces,

The pegasi return to reclaim the city in the clouds.

But in this war, not everything is as it seems.

A sinister plan is enacted by the enemy...

Chapter 14

"Flicker of Hope”

May 5th, 2019

2007 hrs

Stalliongrad HQ

Gale has rounded up all pegasi who took part in the great battle above the city. After initially praising everypony though, he dismissed the members of the supporting squadrons to their quarters, saying they had earned a well-deserved rest. They welcomed those words with great enthusiasm.

Once they left, only the members of Mirage squadron, the Wonderbolts and the three foreign aces remained in the briefing room. Now the two stallions who helped Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker were about to introduce themselves, although the green pegasus seemed to be more outgoing than his gray friend.

“The name’s Shamrock,” he spoke with a spright voice. “And the one next to me is Talisman. We come from Emareia and are otherwise known as the Garuda team, due to our insignia.”

Shamrock showed the symbol of the blue eagle on his vest. Talisman bared it, too. Cloud Kicker kept on staring at them with joyful expression.

“Emareia...” Lightning Bolt thought for a moment, as that name sounded familiar to her. “Are you talking about that country to the far northwest of Equestria?”

“The very same,” Shamrock confirmed. “We had our own war a couple of years back, so we know how to handle stuff like this. We got the permission from our top brass to come and assist you.”

However, when Firefly asked for details about the war, neither of the stallions was too willing to talk about it. Talisman decided to reveal just a little bit about it.

“To put it shortly: we were attacked by the enemy nation, and Emareia was virtually conquered. But we never gave up and carried on the fight. Eventually, we had managed to overpower the enemy, thanks to the help that our allies provided and we reclaimed the capital. We thought everything would end at this point, but...”

He didn’t said another word. Shamrock didn’t wanted to speak about it, either. Memories of those days still lived in their minds...

Spitfire remarked:

“Seems like we have a couple of things in common... and we’re in the same situation.”

“Except for the fact our capital is still intact,” Firefly commented.

This statement was left without much notice, as everypony was now focused on the third ace, Mobius. He was just standing in the corner of the room, silent. Rainbow got closer to him.

“And what about you? Are you gonna tell us something about yourself?”

The blue stallion didn’t seemed to have heard her at first. He haven’t said a single word and only looked at Rainbow Dash, as if he was examining her carefully. She felt a little insecure.

“So now you’re gonna pretend you’re mute again? We've heard you talking a while ago...”

“That wasn’t Mobius.”

Another voice spoke, sounding exactly as the one Firefly and Rainbow heard after the battle.

An unknown white pegasus with a short azure mane and bright, green eyes walked into the room. Gale greeted him as he approached the silver-maned ace.

“Were they bothering you much?” the white stallion asked.

Mobius shook his head and smiled slightly. The other one took it as a positive sign.

“I see.”

He then turned to the other pegasi.

“I’m sorry about the confusion from earlier, it was my voice. I was just expressing my relief after Mobius stopped that griffon. I've used a broadband frequency instead of a personal one, so you got to hear me, too.”

“Who... are you?” Derpy wondered.

While the little incident was made clear, this stranger appeared visibly out of nowhere, only bringing up more questions. Yet he was more than glad to answer them.

“My name is Sky Eye. I’m Mobius’ radar, in a sense.”When Gale suggested that he should tell the Mirage fliers the reasons they are here, Sky Eye explained everything. As the Wonderbolt mentioned before, Mobius was regarded as the greatest flier in the history of ponykind, even though he was born in a country outside of Equestria. In the past few years, he, with the assistance of Sky Eye, managed to turn the tide of a war and brought the attacked nation back from the brink of annihilation. Said war took place on the east, not too far from Equestria. Thanks to Mobius’ heroic actions, the enemy nation was defeated, and he became a living legend. He continued his service in the military for the next year, during which the stallion single hoofedly managed to eliminate any rebels that would try to break the peaceful period. Sky Eye was there with him, monitoring his progress and informing him of possible enemy threats. They became sort of “combat buddies,” as the blue-maned pegasus called it, even though he never fought personally. The entire allied command was impressed by their feats.

Aftermath, both of them seemingly retired, but returned to action when he heard that Equestria was attacked. Mobius was watching the Mirage squadron this whole time, with Sky Eye keeping everything under order. They were observing the struggles, and the blue stallion only came to help them when it was absolutely necessary. Now, the legendary flier decided to come out of the shadows...

When Cloud Kicker asked why Mobius never talks, Sky Eye said:

“Instead of words, Mobius prefers to let his actions speak for himself. And as you can tell, he’s capable of amazing feats, much like you, Mirage flight.”

The ponies were grateful for those words and Lightning Bolt used this moment to talk with Shamrock and Talisman again:

“Look guys... I’m sorry for the misunderstanding back then... It’s just that... you just appeared out of the blue and...”

“Hey, it’s OK. No hard feelings,” Shamrock assured her.Gale seemed to be slightly excited. While he was an experienced flier himself, the presence of the three famous aces was certainly rousing for the pegasi of Equestria. He announced that tomorrow morning, they will carry out an important operation, in which they will assist the Wonderbolts along with Mirage and other squadrons. At the moment, the red pegasus suggested that the ponies should go to their quarters to get some sleep and regain strength for upcoming battles. This proposition was met with positive acclaim.==========

May 6th, 2019

1000 hrs

Canterlot, Royal Castle

On the next morning, every combat-ready pegasus was ordered to relocate to Canterlot, where Gale was going to brief details about another important operation. While he didn’t reveal anything at first, he mentioned it may become “the greatest aerial battle in Equestria’s history.” All of Rainbow’s friends already returned back to their respective units and they were going to be sent to battles in different regions or, in case of Pinkie Pie and Rarity, help in securing Ponyville. It seemed the time for general counter-offensive has finally come.

Not sooner that the pegasi from the Mirage squadron made it to the capital and landed on the ground, they were greeted by somepony calling out “GIRLS!” with a happy squeal. They noticed a familiar green pegasus with light, blue eyes, dashing toward them...

“Medley!” Fluttershy exclaimed.

It was indeed her. All ponies welcomed their companion’s return warmly, especially Rainbow. Cloud Kicker was amazed at Medley’s quick recovery.

“Are your wings alright? Incredible! I thought you were gonna recover by the end of May...”

“Zecora’s medicine can work wonders,” Medley replied, but suddenly turned a little shy. “Besides... I wanted to fly alongside you again, girls. I guess my desire helped me recover, too.”

“If so, then you’ve got great spirit, Kid,” Firefly said with a praise.

“But remember, because you’ve recovered just recently, I can’t take the risk of putting you in the front line during combat. You will have to remain as a support for a while.”

“I understand, Flash,” Medley saluted. “We will be needing each other if we are to get Cloudsdale back from the enemy.”

Hearing those words, other pegasi looked at her in disbelief. Rainbow outright yelled: “WHAT?” and they started asking Medley for further details. Gale approached them at this point.

“You will hear everything you need to know in the briefing room. I’ll be holding the meeting at 1100 hours, in about forty minutes. See you then.”

After saying it, he left the baffled pegasi. So they are actually going to send them to recover their home in the clouds... After the initial shock, everypony started cheering.

The Wonderbolts saw this, too.

“At least they know what’s coming to them,” Spitfire commented. “Once we get there, things are gonna get rough...”

“Things are gonna be fine, Spitfire,” Soarin’ readjusted her. “Their team is full again, so they shouldn’t have much problems.”

Firebolt was more curious about the three foreign aces and if they would actually take a part in the upcoming operation, but also expressed her relief upon seeing the Mirage flight reunited, acknowledging the fact they might be the best team in the whole Equestria. While they waited for the briefing, all three decided to show Canterlot to Talisman and Shamrock. Mobius and Sky Eye tagged along, with the white stallion expressing hopes of meeting the Royal Sisters themselves. Spitfire remarked that while getting such an honor is quite difficult, there might be a chance for it after a successful recapture of Cloudsdale.-----------------

1100 hrs

Canterlot Castle, Briefing Room

“I’m glad to see you all together again,” Gale expressed, as the Mirage squadron has entered the briefing room, just in time for the explanation to begin.

Most of the ponies who took part in defending Stalliongrad were already there and five minutes later, the Wonderbolts and the foreign aces arrived as well.

“Everypony in here? Good. Let’s start the briefing, then.”

Gale turned a set of monitors on and the view of Cloudsdale appeared before the ponies’ eyes. However, upon closer inspection, Lightning Bolt noticed there was something unusual about it.

“Hey... I don’t remember those things being placed there...”

She pointed at the metallic-looking towers with barrels coming out of them. Spitfire and her wingmates knew these constructions. They still remembered them from the first days of the war.

“So... they actually went and did it... Those feathered chumps have mounted anti-air turrets all over Cloudsdale. Now the city is pretty much a griffon fortress.”

“Unbelievable...” Sunburst commented.

Gale started walking back and forth, telling them the details of the mission.

“Yes, this is our grim reality. These anti-air turrets are going to cause us a lot of trouble in retaking the city, unless you destroy the majority of them. Reports indicate they were reinforced with a more durable steel alloy, so they are stronger than those that were present at The Burning Talon. It’s highly likely that many griffin units are stationed around the city as well, considering our last successful battle. In order for this mission to end well and make Cloudsdale ours again, we will need all the available pegasus forces. Which is why I brought you here. I know that some of you still have scars after Stalliongrad...”

The red pegasus looked at Blueberry, leader of the Clover squadron, which was wiped out completely and she was its sole survivor.

“... But we can’t give up hope. Due to the circumstances, our role lies only in recapturing Cloudsdale. The ground units below will attempt to secure area around Ponyville. Now, then... let’s go over the details.”

Gale changed the screen, which was now showing the detailed map of the cloud city. All ponies in the room looked carefully on it to understand their role in this battle.

“This operation will be divided into three phases. Phase 1 consists of Mirage squadron infiltrating the airspace around the city in an attempt of destroying as much anti-air turrets as possible. You don’t have to take them all down, though. I think 70% of them all will be enough for the rest of the forces to get into Cloudsdale.”

“I guess we can safely assume there will be several griffin soldiers trying to intercept us,” Rainbow Dash noted.

“No doubt. And as soon as they will find themselves on the losing end, they will most likely call for reinforcements. This is when Phase 2 will begin. When the anti-air turrets will be destroyed by you and the squadron leaders aiding you...”

Gale pointed to Sunburst, Blueberry, Quick Chaser, Thunder Flicker, Tornado Swirl and Overdrive, who instantly took a standing position.

“...the rest of the pegasi will come and help you fight against the griffins. If they will keep resisting, then we will go into Phase 3 and use the support of the Wonderbolts and our ace friends.”

“So, if you will do well enough, we won’t actually have to fight?” Shamrock asked Firefly.

“Well, at least we’ll get the best seats to watch the show unfold.”

Talisman and Mobius glared at him for a short time. The green stallion excused himself for the last remark, noting he just wanted to lighten the mood. He saw that not every pony was willing to take a part in the next great battle. Some of them were already tired of this seemingly pointless war, it didn’t seemed to pay off for either side. Nopony knew the true reason behind the whole conflict, but it appeared to be turning into a meaningless loss of life every next day.

“Regardless,” Gale continued, “if we will manage to drive the griffins away from Cloudsdale, we will re-establish our air superiority and have a chance to bring the war to an end. That’s why ask you all to give your best.”

“Don’t worry,” said Rainbow Dash. “I’ve waited a long time to get the city back. We can’t forget that it’s a home of all pegasi. It’s a matter of honor, at least to me. I’m gonna fight until the city is free of those feathered freaks!”

“I’m with you, Rainbow!” Firefly added. “You can count on us all to help you.”

Once Gale ended the briefing, he turned his attention to Sky Eye.

“Since I know you prefer to sit in the control room rather than fight, I’ll share my place with you, so you will be in contact with Mobius during any battle, starting with the next one.”

“I appreciate it. I hope we’ll cooperate well,” said Sky Eye

The red pegasus then motioned to the other Wonderbolts and the aces to come with him and discuss further details. Rainbow Dash and her friends used this opportunity to get a better knowing of the ponies who led other squadrons. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive helped them in it.

Sunburst, an orange male pegasus who led the Phoenix squadron, was a headstrong and brave warrior, willing to give his life to protect Equestria. This demeanour earned him a respect among his wingmates and other pegasi alike. In their eyes, he was an example of a fine soldier. Additionally, his family had strong patriotic traditions.

Blueberry was almost a complete opposite of Sunburst. She was a magenta-colored female flier with beautiful jade eyes and wore two green rings on her right leg—clearly not a pony suited for war. Blueberry specialized in espionage and covert tactics, but her team was forced to improvise during the previous battle. Every flier from Clover team, except for her, died, and she felt guilty of being unable to protect them. It was something that made Rainbow Dash relate to her. Fluttershy sympathized with Blueberry, promising to watch her back. They managed to become good friends already.

Thunder Flicker and Quick Chaser led the Lancer and Sweeper squadrons respectively. The two pegasi were male, though Chaser was slightly younger and had a cyan colored body with a mane in two colors; yellow and a red stripe in its middle. Thunder Flicker was a tall flier, bearing a bright amber coat and yellowish, icterine mane. Both favored speed over everything else.

Derpy was curious about Chrome Plate and his Stingray flight, as well as the Dragon team not being present here. Overdrive explained their absence.

“The Stingray squadron got relocated to Hoofington, and the Dragon squadron was moved to Trottingham. These cities are still under griffin control, despite Applejack’s attempt of recovering the latter after The Burning Talon went down. Our enemies got a little overconfident after the battle over Ponyville, it seems. We can use it to our advantage.”

Firefly agreed. If several cities would be reclaimed by the ponies at the same time, it would put their foes on the edge. She announced that her team will be readying themselves for flight, back to Cloudsdale.

“We’d appreciate your assistance. Don’t be troubled by the turrets; we’ll take care of them. You just provide us with hollers about incoming enemies.”

“We’ll do it in a jiffy,” Thunder Flicker spoke with confidence.

“Then, let’s get ready. If all goes well, the city should be recaptured before sundown. Put your mind to what you do!” the pink pegasus exclaimed.

The leaders left the room moments later to round up their squadrons for the flight. Blueberry stayed behind. She didn’t had any pony to command and didn’t seemed to be willing to fight.

“Maybe... maybe I should stay here... I won’t be much of a help.... I’m all alone...”

“No, you’re not!” Cloud Kicker said. “Each of the pegasi here is a friend of yours. We’re gonna help you and we’re ain’t leaving you behind!”

“That’s right. No pony is ever alone,” Lightning Bolt spoke.

“You should keep fighting. Do it for those who aided you in Stalliongrad.”

“You can do it, Blueberry,” Fluttershy added. “I... I believe in you. We all do.”

Buoyed up, the pegasus vowed to fight in the name of the whole Clover squadron and do her best to help the winged ponies recapture Cloudsdale. She followed the other leaders while Mirage squadron was getting prepped itself for the upcoming battle.

==========

1345 hrs

Cloudsdale airspace

The sun reached its peak. All pegasi were approaching the fortified city. They were ready and in position to begin their operation. Gale contacted them from his control room.

“All right, let’s go over it one more time. First things first, the turrets. Mirage?”

“Consider them toasted,” Rainbow said smugly.

“Since this operation, as you will be cooperating with other teams, you should refer to yourselves using numbers, from 1 to 7. You are still allowed to use your callsigns, though. Once you have made a hole in the defenses, the other pegasi from the attacker teams will join you in battling griffins. The outcome of this battle may be decisive. Are you all ready? All leaders, radios!”

“Quick Chaser, Sweeper 1! Ready for action!”

“Sunburst, Phoenix 1! Let me at’em!”

“Thunder Flicker, Lancer 1! Read you loud and clear!”

“Blueberry, Clover 1! I’ll do my best!”

“Tornado Swirl, Burner 1! Everything’s A-OK!”

“Overdrive, Racer 1! Let’s dash to the finish line!”

“Firefly, Mirage 1! Everypony’s in position!”

“Talisman, Garuda 1! We’ll watch your backs.”

“Mobius 1 on standby!”

Everypony turned to Mobius briefly upon hearing the booming voice, but that was just Sky Eye, announcing through his own radio. Mobius was alone, but could make up for the entire squadron.

“We need to get used to this, I guess,” Medley chuckled, but became serious again after the checkup was finished.

Gale wished them all good luck and gave permission for the Mirage fliers to begin the raid. Right before they descended upon the first set of turrets, Cloud Kicker thought of something:

“You know, it’s kinda ironic... we have to raid Cloudsdale to liberate it.”

“Yeah... and something tells me this won’t be the last time we’ll have to resort to such actions,” Lightning Bolt added.

“But now, let’s focus on what’s ahead. RIDE OUT!”

“Uh... Thunder? What’s with that yell all of a sudden?” Firefly asked, confused.

“I thought we need a sort of battle cry, you know, to boost our spirits! …Was it bad?” the white pegasus asked.

“No... but we’re flying, not running.”

Lightning sighed a little, letting out a giggle moment later. Rainbow Dash decided to play along.

“I’ve got a better one: GO FOR BROKE!”

Other looked at her as she laughed. Medley and Cloud Kicker still thought the old battle cry was better. Once they reminded the other pegasi how it sounded, Firefly led them toward the turrets.

“All right, girls! Time to dive into the fireworks!”

“May the sun and moon shine upon us!”

All seven fliers descended at high speed. The turrets picked their signals up and opened fire. Leading pegasi were providing distraction and allowing the heroines to destroy a few turrets without even alerting the sentries. Soon enough, all griffins who stationed in Cloudsdale knew of the ponies fighting their defenses. Night Raven was overseeing the process of assembling forces and ordered his wingmates to fight the pegasi off as quickly as possible. The remaining fliers were waiting for their leaders and Mirage squadron to open a way to the city. Within the first ten minutes of the battle, they managed to destroy 40% of the first line of defenses. By the second line, their communicators were nearly useless due to a jamming device placed in between the turrets. While Sunburst drew their fire, Lightning Bolt took the device out with a swift kick.

The griffin soldiers joined the fray as well and had their sights set on the ponies, hoping the turrets will keep them distracted and they could be slowly picked off. But once Quick Chaser noticed the bandits that were approaching, he immediately reached out to Firefly’s team.

“Sweeper 1 to Mirage 1! The radar shows about six contacts, heading in your direction! Griffins incoming! Can you handle them while we take on the remaining turrets?”

“Roger that. Mirage 1 moving to intercept! All fliers, follow my lead!”

“On it, Flash! Roger, we’re on it! Let’s do this!”

Medley, Rainbow Dash and Cloud Kicker turned around and took off in three different directions, trying to flank the enemies. Derpy, Fluttershy and Lightning Bolt followed soon after. Their swiftness was vital for dodging the firepower and the soldiers’ attacks. When the third one had been knocked out of the sky by Fluttershy and Derpy’s combined efforts, Night Raven decided to radio in Zeakros.

“Northwind 2 to Northwind 1! The enemy is here! Requesting additional support!”

“Be right there,” Zeakros’ calm voice answered. “You’re fighting against the Mirage squadron, are you not?”

“So would it seem. Get here with as much soldiers as you can rally.”

“Northwind 1 out.”

Gale contacted the ponies again and reminded them about the headquarters being defended by another griffin team. They still had to defeat the initial group of bandits before they could proceed. Sunburst managed to overpower one of the soldiers, sending him plummeting downward on one of the turrets. Several bullets pierced his body before he crashed onto it. The orange flier noticed that the base of the turret was especially vulnerable and suggested performing direct attacks there. Taking his advice, the pegasi destroyed 60% of the turrets while remaining mostly unharmed. Soon, Quick Chaser reported about a large flight of griffins approaching from the north. There were about twenty of them.

Thunder Flicker called in for the rest of the Lancer squadron to join in the fight and aid the Mirage squadron. It soon became apparent that the newly arrived forces were mostly new recruits who received harsh training, as they turned out to be especially brutal. Lancer 4 got cornered by one of the griffins. He grabbed the pony by the throat and smashed him into a nearby column, breaking the neck.

Another soldier targeted Blueberry, seeing her flying alone. While she managed to avoid most of his attacks, he mercilessly drove his claws into her back, causing an injury. She froze in terror, seeing another upcoming attack...

"Forget it, bub!"

Overdrive charged at the griffon. If it weren’t for her interference, Blueberry could have been dead. One powerful headbutt managed to shake him off and save the pegasus.

“Are you OK, Blueberry?” Overdrive asked, concerned.

“Yes... I’m... ow... I’ll be fine.”

“You better stay with me and Sea Spot. Come on!”

Sunburst called on for his own team to join the battle and destroy the remaining turrets in the area. Despite the reinforcements, the griffins still hadn’t established air superiority. Night Raven also flew up to meet his opponents. While fighting against Thunder Flicker, he summoned another team of seven griffins. Things were turning in favor of the half eagle-lion troops, as they were on advantage in terms of numbers. Some of the ponies were wounded from the griffin ruffians. Among them, there were several female griffins, too, being just as ruthless as their comrades. Sweeper 3 has been assaulted by two of these; they incapacitated him and inflicted mortal wounds with their sharp claws.

Seeing that the battle seemed to be even, Night Raven decided to call out the last reserves, when he saw Zeakros arriving with the promised forces.

“Now, time to rid the sky of those pathetic equines... Gult squadron! Finish them off!”

“Understood.”

Thirteen griffins, with Echo leading them, appeared within Cloudsdale airspace a minute later. The ponies were slowly being overwhelmed. Gale seemed to have noticed it.

“I guess it’s time to stop playing around, Sky Eye.”

“I agree.”

Both pegasi radioed the Wonderbolts and the three aces, who were waiting outside the city gates, at standby. Just as they flew into it, they initially gazed at its beautiful architecture. Aside from minor wanton destruction and a few remaining turrets, not much has changed, as Firebolt remarked. Noticing the enemies surrounding the ponies before them, the six fliers joined the fray. Spitfire divided her wingmates.

“Soarin’, you go help Racer and Burner teams! Firebolt, go support Sunburst and Thunder Flicker! Garuda team, can you manage the main attack force?”

“You just watch and see!” Shamrock exclaimed. “Let’s go, Garuda 1!”

“Mobius 1, you are cleared to engage,” Sky Eye’s voice boomed again.

The blue stallion acknowledged it and flew straight at the pack of griffins before him.

Thanks to their support, the tables had turned in favor of the ponies. About forty-one griffins faced against twenty-eight pegasi, but the difference in experience was clearly visible. Whenever Talisman, Shamrock or Mobius picked up an enemy and targeted it, they wouldn’t leave its rear end until they caught up to it and brought it down. Spitfire helped Rainbow Dash in defeating a team of ruffians, and the other pegasi teams were slowly getting the upper hand.

In the midst of battle, Echo broke away from his squad and went on to meet Mobius directly. Their sights met and both seemed to have forgotten about every other warrior.

“So, we meet again... Heavenly Ribbon. Payback time for the humiliation at The Burning Talon. Let’s make this fight a good one.”

“You still can’t forgive Mobius for defeating your squadron in Urusea?” Sky Eye’s sounded clearly to him.

The griffon knew he was Mobius’ assistant.

“This is a matter of pride. A pony who sits behind monitors like you all the time would not understand.”

“I’m not here to judge. But I know you were not truly evil. Maybe you can tell us the true reason behind this war. Is it really about conquering Equestria?”

“And why do you even care?” Echo asked. “You should worry about your companion, because I have no intention of holding back. He’s a worthy opponent alright, but no one is invincible. I will find a way to take you down, Mobius.”

There was no point for further conversation. They have engaged in a duel.

Zeakros, in the meantime, took on Firefly for the first time since the battle over Hoofington. Both of them knew what to expect, so the fight was even for a while. But the agility and determination of the ponies to recapture their home city proved to be a deciding factor. Even despite the brutality of their opponents, as the ponies witnessed two ruffians violently killing Burner 4 by breaking his spine with powerful beak attacks, the griffins were suffering from the fatigue.

Night Raven was unable to comprehend how their foes were able to ward off an attack force roughly twice the size as theirs. Zeakros was about to suggest a retreat when three more griffins joined the battle. It was Edge, along with Slip and Jet. Their fierce assaults forced Garuda and Phoenix teams to focus on them. Thanks to the incredible synergy between Talisman and Shamrock, as well as their quickness, the reinforcements weren’t much of a trouble. Both stallions appeared as if they were one, zipping across the skies and aiding whichever pony was needing their help. Mobius was still busy, fighting Echo.

The Mirage squadron managed to overpower the griffins by working together. Derpy and Medley managed to pull out an interesting tactic; when the green pegasus grabbed a broken piece of the turret and threw it onto a soldier, it allowed Derpy to fly behind him and dive-attack him, sending him to Medley, at which point she delivered an uppercut in the beak, knocking the griffon down. At the same time, Cloud Kicker forced Slip to tail her, which gave enough time for Lightning Bolt to aim and stomp on a fluffy cloud to generate a bolt of electricity, which zapped the rookie soldier. To his dismay, it happened several times. Frustrated and exhausted, he decided to ditch everything behind and leave, seeing no point in this battle.

Unfortunately for Slip, Night Raven saw through his intent. He appeared before Slip in a blink of an eye and slashed him violently across the chest.

“What...! What are you...!” Slip was utterly shocked at Raven’s behavior.

“I don’t believe it... You’re such a basket case! A disgrace to the Kingdom and your own unit! You wanted to desert and forsake your comrades, is that it? Don’t worry...”

He got closer to Slip and stabbed the chest with his claws before grabbing the rookie’s head.

“I will put you out of your misery.”

“N-N-N-No... W-Wait, I’ve changed my mind... I was wrong. I shouldn’t do it... Please...! N-NO! Y-Y-You wouldn’t...!”

Despite Slip’s desperate struggle, Night Raven snapped his neck and ended his life. Echo saw his comrade falling down.

“Northwind 2! What the hell do you think you’re doing?!" he yelled.

“I’ve made you a favor of executing that traitor. He was of no use to your team anyway,” Night Raven absolved himself.

Echo was still furious, but he couldn’t interfere due to his fight with Mobius. The other ponies were shocked seeing a griffon attacking one of his troops, yet there was still no time to dwell into this. Rainbow Dash went in for a stunning action.

“I’m gonna take down the power units of the turrets. This should render them useless.”

“Good idea, Rainbow. Butterfly, Ditzy, cover her six!” Firefly ordered.

With Fluttershy and Derpy drawing the turrets’ attention, Rainbow easily flew past their fire and proceeded to chop and kick a medium-sized object that was connected to most turrets in the area. Hearing about the power units, Talisman asked Shamrock for cover while he went to destroy the second one, located on the opposite side of Cloudsdale. Thanks to good timing, soon after Rainbow destroyed the first unit, the gray pegasus was done with the other one.

The anti-air turrets ceased fire. Edge witnessed the ponies’ actions firsthand and could not believe his eyes.

“These ponies aren’t normal... It’s as if they have unlimited energy.”

Zeakros’ voice sounded in his headphones.

“I think you should leave, Edge. Report everything to Black Star and Red Cyclone in Gryphus. We will be leaving soon as well. This battle is lost.”

“You’re joking, right? We can’t give them any more ground! Their offence has to be—”

“Crimson 1, you’re in no position to argue with me. After Talon squadron’s annihilation, my team is the leading one. ... Just do as I say,” Zeakros pleaded.

“But—”

“Break, Edge!”

Resigned, the griffin wearing the red vest complied with the order he received. Soon, the battle was drawing to a close. Griffins were retreating, while the pegasi regrouped and checked on any wounded, as well as the area, for possible reinforcements. Not another enemy soldier appeared, however. It was over. Cloudsdale had been retaken by the ponies. Their victory was well deserved and earned.

==========

1610 hrs

Cloudsdale

Cheering over their success, the brave fliers were congratulating each other. Cloud Kicker commented that the battle was indeed great, even though less forces were engaged when compared to the first clash at Cloudsdale. No less than ten pegasi fell during the battle, though. Spitfire already redirected the supporting teams back to Canterlot to spread the news and round up all the other pegasi so that the reassembly and re-establishing of pegasi air superiority in the region could commence.

There were still several turrets remaining throughout the city, but they were all disabled, since the power units had been destroyed. Rainbow Dash volunteered to take out the remaining ones, and to her surprise, Spitfire proposed to help her. When asked why by Firebolt, the fiery-maned mare replied:

“Together with Rainbow, we’ll clear this place just as you’ll all get back to Canterlot. The pegasi will be able to accommodate here much easier without those steel contraptions littering the alleys and buildings. Is it alright with you, Rainbow?”

The blue pegasus was utterly surprised by that declaration, but quickly snapped out of it, and agreed wholeheartedly. She barely restrained herself from jumping into the air and screaming with joy, though. Firefly agreed to the proposition, especially since many fliers got hurt during the battle and required quick treatment before they could fly again. Most injuries and wounds weren’t serious, but precaution was always appreciated.

A few minutes later, only Spitfire and Rainbow Dash stayed behind and were about to start cleaning the city off those last few turrets. There were some things bothering the rainbow-maned pegasus, however.

“They could just radio Gale in and tell him to pass the message on. Why this sudden change?”

“I didn’t want to tell you to worry you... but recently, we’ve been experiencing heavy radio interference in Canterlot’s vicinity,” said Spitfire.

“...It’s probably due to electromagnetic pulses... nothing our specialists can't bypass, though,” she added quickly. “That’s why we should finish cleaning this place up and rejoin the others later on. Is there anything else on your mind?”

“Yeah,” Rainbow confirmed. “I saw that griffon... Night Raven... He attacked and killed Slip when he was leaving... That was... I mean... geez.”

“I know what you’re trying to say—shocking, huh?” Spitfire guessed.

“That, too. I know this is war and all, but still... Getting attacked by your allies? That’s crazy.”

“You know, Rainbow, this is griffins’ mentality. It’s totally different from ours. In case we happened to have a traitor, it would just be captured and court-martialed... but these guys prefer to carry out executions immediately, without all the paperwork and technical stuff.”

While Spitfire pegasus tried to sound cool, these kinds of behaviours were clearly disturbing to her. Plus, she knew that their enemies will return. Using this opportunity, she said to Rainbow:

“...There’s also another reason why I wanted to tag along.”

Rainbow looked at her. Spitfire got a little closer and asked with a serious tone.

“What’s the real reason you want to join the Wonderbolts?”

This question left Rainbow baffled briefly. She managed to regain her composure and explain how much she idolised the stunt aces. While Spitfire understood her dreams, she openly stated that despite Rainbow’s great flying skills and courage, her discipline was still in question. It was true that Dash was a kind of pony who preferred to do things her way and only followed orders when necessary. This was one of the reasons that Firefly’s leadership over the squadron was a matter of “friendly authority,” as she put it.

Spitfire didn’t wanted to drag this subject for too long.

“If you’re serious about joining the Wonderbolts, just get less bubbly and more disciplined. Once you’ll do that, we can talk about it again,” she stated.

“...Okay. I get the message.”

The disappointment in Rainbow’s voice was almost visible. But Spitfire patted her on the back and smiled.

“Don’t get me wrong, Rainbow Dash. You’re a great ally and companion. But our team has certain rules that we all follow. So if you wanna become on of us after the war, you’ll have to follow them, too.”

The topic was dropped and, to ease the situation and give a chance to compete, the pegasi wanted to see who will be able to knock down more turrets. They remained linked through the radio and proceeded with cleaning up the city, disposing of the last remaining griffin weapons.

MEANWHILE

Gryphus, Griffin Palace Halls

Edge managed to reach the griffin capital with ease and was just finishing his report to Red Cyclone. Needless to say, he wasn’t pleased.

“And that covers our situation, sir. We’re in over our heads.”

“Enough, fool! I can’t believe you lost to those pitiable equines again!” the crimson griffon roared. “How is that even possible?”

Another figure emerged from the shadow. It was Black Star, clearly in a calm mood, despite hearing about the failure.

“Once again, your strategy backfired on you. Edge is not the one to blame, you are. When will you understand that our enemies are stronger than they seem?" he asked.

“Never mind about that now!” Red Cyclone argued. “General Silverbeak will be holding a special meeting with our soldiers outside the palace soon, correct?”

He turned to Black Star.

“Yes. The meeting will take place in about thirty minutes.”

“Good. I will still have time to speak with him, then...”

While Black Star was curious, Red Cyclone dismissed his worries stating that he “has plans” and left without saying another word. Edge was just observing the whole conversation, not sure what was it about. He was taken off-guard when Black Star looked at him and said:

“You should go after him.”

When asked why, the dark griffon confessed that his partner had become very suspicious lately, not willing to share his thoughts or plans. Convinced that Red Cyclone was preparing something big, but not necessarily beneficial, Black Star managed to persuade Edge to go after him in secret to the throne room. Once he reached the door, he overheard the conversation:

“I see... So Cloudsdale was taken over.”

“My apologies, general. Our troops were doing their best.”

“Yes, no doubt...”

General Silverbeak started walking back and forth, thinking aloud.

“Maybe... it’s better this way. The war has been going on for too long. Our resources are nearly depleted and the morale of our men are getting lower with every day... This conflict is no longer paying off for us. That’s why...”

Red Cyclone looked at the general with squinted eyes. The leader spoke of his plans to go to Canterlot and speak with Princesses Celestia and Luna to start the peace talks. He called all soldiers before the palace for a meeting, but in truth, he was going to announce to them to cease the fighting. The crimson griffin was clearly angry.

“Sir... are you thinking about surrendering to those wimps?”

“It’s time to face the facts, Red Cyclone. We have underestimated our foes, and now, we’re paying the price. But, as the commander and leader of the Griffin Army, I shall see to it that not another griffon will fall in battle. We’ve already lost many great aces, with Talon squadron at the head... I’m slowly running out of concepts to continue...”

General Silverbeak sounded tired. “Perhaps he was also not willing to fight against the ponies in the first place”, Edge thought to himself, as he peeked from behind the door to observe the scene.

However, Red Cyclone was not about to throw in the towel.

“Please, reconsider it, General. I have a plan that is sure to bring us victory!”

“...If this plan is more efficient than peace talks with the Princesses, do tell,” Silverbeak agreed, though reluctantly.

“It is actually quite simple. My plan has already been put in motion, to be honest. Ever since we’ve convinced the ruffians to join us, we’ve gained a sufficient fighting force. With them, we will give the ponies a taste of true fear!”

His red eyes gave out a spark—undoubtly, a stroke of genius.

“What do you have in mind...?” General Silverbeak wondered.

Red Cyclone explained; his plan was simple indeed... but also exceptionally cruel.

“We will send all of our remaining forces directly onto Canterlot. The majority of the pegasi are still stationed there, and they are recovering from the wounds sustained in the last two battles. We’ll use this opportunity to raze the capital! While that will be happening, our forces stationed in other Equestrian outposts will slowly overwhelm those ponies, bringing about our complete victory! Our enemies will be reduced to mere slaves that will have to work for our labor and await their certain demise, be it from exhaustion or our judgments! This is... the ultimate solution. Once we are done with them, we will begin our expansion... all over the world!”

Both the general and Edge couldn’t believe what they heard. Not even the most addled mind could have come up with such audacious idea! The leader outwardly stated that such concepts are unacceptable.

“I cannot allow anymore pointless violence, Red Cyclone! I do not approve of this plan. I am going to remain committed to my initial concept and speak with the Royal Sisters about peace talks. You are dismissed!”

“I see...” Red Cyclone growled. “I guess that means our little deal is off... sir.”

In a surprising move, he pounced at General Silverbeak, tackling him to the ground and holding him by his throat. The griffon’s eyes flared with murderous intent...

“What.... are you doing?!”

“Sorry, General. You have failed to carry out your duty and disappointed me greatly. I will take it from here.”

“The other griffins will never follow you...” Silverbeak coughed up, realizing the treachery.

“Ah, but they will. Those ignorant fools will follow whatever order I’ll issue... as they always did. Remember the plan to kidnap little ponies? I was orchestrating it in secret. Heh... Fear not... I’ll think of a convincing cover story... about your absence...!”

Lifting up the one he used to herald as a great leader, Red Cyclone pinned Silverbeak against the wall and brutally stabbed him in the chest with his claw. Edge gasped silently.

“You were longing for retirement, sir... I’m happy to give you one,” the griffon chuckled.

“T-Traitorous... dog....!”

General Silverbeak collapsed on the floor, breathless. Witnessing the assassination, Edge fled away from the throne room to find Black Star and tell him what happened. Unaware of it, Red Cyclone took the general’s symbol of power and said to himself:

“Now... this should be interesting... Heheheh... HAHAHA!”

==========

1730 hrs

Cloudsdale, en route to Canterlot

Rainbow Dash just performed a flying kick on another turret, bending it slightly. She followed with a few more direct blows which were strong enough for the contraption to be knocked down. The blue pegasus wheezed in relief.

“I think that’s the last of them,” she said to herself.

Spitfire approached her.

“Nice work, Rainbow Dash. I guess we’re done here. I’m gonna call Gale and...”

Before she reached out for her communicator, it gave a signal on its own. The red pegasus was calling her and as soon as she picked it up, her face froze in shock. She heard sounds of battle... somepony was screaming... Gale’s voice was also urgent. Rainbow couldn’t hear what he said and asked Spitfire what was happening. The mare’s voice sounded agitated at first.

“Canterlot... Canterlot is under attack!”

“Say WHAT?!” Rainbow said in disbelief.

“The griffins launched a full-scale attack! We must get there, on the double!”

These news came out as a truly horrible and unexpected turn of events. The two pegasi turned in the direction of the capital and started flapping their wings as fast as they could. Both kept their radios online and tried to stay in contact with the teammates, but the interference in the signal was getting bigger. And the closer they were getting to Canterlot, the more dire the situation seemed to appear. About halfway, Rainbow asked Medley for status, but before she could report anything coherent, she was assaulted by two griffins and her loud shriek was the last thing Rainbow heard from the green pegasus. Spitfire picked up the speed and Rainbow Dash followed.

As they were approaching the capital, they noticed smoke rising from the city area.

“Oh, HAY NO! This is not happening!” Rainbow exclaimed angrily

Spitfire tried to reach Soarin’ and Firebolt, hoping to get some grasp on the situation. Unfortunately, the signal got cut off when the blue stallion was hit from behind. It appeared that the ponies were being pushed back by relentless attacks. Some of the griffin interceptors appeared on Rainbow’s radar, but Spitfire told her to ignore them and just keep flying. They passed by the mad flying pegasi, as if completely disregarding their presence. Finally, fatigued and tired, Rainbow and Spitfire arrived in Canterlot, stunned by the horrifying things they saw...

There were fires everywhere. Ponies were running around, screaming, terrified beyond belief. Even in their darkest nightmares, they never saw so much destruction. In the midst of chaos, griffins kept swooping down on them, hoping to add one more victim for the surprised defenders to look after.

Hovering in midair and looking around, Spitfire mumbled:

“We’re too late...”

Rainbow became worried about her friends. She tried to contact them. The radio refused to work. Static was the only thing that was answering. Rainbow’s pleas were getting increasingly desperate with every name. She couldn’t reach neither her friends from the squadron, nor those who bared the Elements of Harmony. Fearing the worst, Dash attempted to contact Fluttershy as a last resort.

“Come on... Fluttershy! Fluttershy, respond! Respond, for Celestia’s sake! Somepony! Anypony! PLEASE, RESPOND!”

There was no response. Rainbow’s eyes shrunk in sheer despair. Her sight appeared as being fixed on an undisclosed location when the blue pegasus kept flapping her wings, unable to move. Tears started streaming down her cheeks as Rainbow clashed her hooves against each other and flew straight ahead at the griffin soldiers, yelling angrily. She ignored all calls from Spitfire. The griffon before her, Night Raven, ordered his troops to kill Rainbow. They began a brutal assault, and despite Spitfire’s attempt to protect the blue pegasus, she was injured severely from their claws, and the griffon from the Northwind squadron delivered a final blow into Dash’s back, sending her plummeting down toward the hard ground. She was slowly losing strength and was unable to flap her wings fast enough to lessen the impact.

With a loud thud, Rainbow crashed to the ground. Spitfire watched helplessly, trying to fend off the ruffians that just attacked her. The last thing Rainbow heard was some pony calling her name out loudly... then, the vision blurred before her. Reaching her hoof out, as if trying to call the pony shouting Dash’s name, her head slumped on the right arm.

Her eyes closed. She lost consciousness.

Chapter 17: The Liberation of Canterlot

Having basked in the moonlit glow,

And empowered by the rising sun,

With friends by their side, the heroines take flight.

Behold Mirage, their wings ablaze in majestic light!

Chapter 17

"The Liberation of Canterlot"

May 7th, 2019

0704 hrs

Canterlot outskirts

When the bright light around the ponies vanished, they found themselves standing on a cliffside, with the entire Canterlot visible in the distance. They weren’t too far away from it. Many were still coming to their senses after this unexpected relocation. Twilight Sparkle and her friends were checking on their allies to see if they were prepared for the upcoming battle. In case of the pegasi, all three teams; Mirage, Dragon and Garuda were all set, and they were only waiting for the signal.

However, there was one problem. Several ponies were considering to stay behind, not being interested in any more fighting. A few soldiers even stated they wanted to leave the field and desert. The majority were berating them for it, calling them cowards and other names alike. Their attitude was understandable, yet Twilight, alongside her friends still tried to uplift their spirits.

Rarity took an opportunity and showed her latest creation to the ponies. It wasn’t a dress, but a brand new Equestrian banner. She was working on it during the last three weeks. The banner was composed of two pair of wings, a blue-orange-red circle with a horn and a cyan star on top of it. The lower wings were orange, symbolizing daytime, while the ones in the middle had the same color as the star, reflecting nighttime. The gathered ponies, being over fifty in numbers, gazed upon it. Rainbow noticed it briefly and calmed them down.

“Hey, Twilight, we need to unify these ponies somehow. We’ll be needing their help if Canterlot is to be liberated."

“I know...” the purple unicorn replied. “They don’t seem to understand how important they are for the success. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna couldn’t have chosen them for being the members of the strike team without putting their trust in them.”

“Y’know, maybe you should reach out to them, make them realize that they’re a key factor during th’ offence” Applejack said as she came closer.

Twilight knew what the two mares meant. It was essential that the ponies were to remain as a combined group, not a separate one. She noticed the smoke over Canterlot rose again.

The battle had begun. Their assistance was needed for the defenders. At first, Twilight tried to shout as loud as she could to get the attention of the arguing ponies, but it didn’t work. She felt a little distraught by her inability to keep them united. Luckily, Pinkie Pie came to her aid by pulling out a small megaphone, then yelling into it.

“EVERYPONY, BE QUIET! TWILIGHT WANTS TO SAY SOMETHING!”

This brief, but loud plea caught everypony’s attention. Shamrock looked at her, stunned.

“Whoa... how did she do that?”

“It’s OK, partner, she’s just bein’ Pinkie Pie,” Applejack stated.

“But at least it helped.”

Indeed, all troops turned in Twilight’s direction. Thanking Pinkie timidly, the purple unicorn got on a nearby rock, so that she would be seen by everypony. Every pegasus, unicorn and earth pony present on the hills approached Twilight’s stand. As she was slowly gathering her thoughts, she remembered the words Princess Celestia once told her. Hoping that these words will make all of them aware of their importance in the upcoming offence, Twilight begun.

“Everypony... please, listen to me. I have something very important to tell you. Believe it or not... I understand that many of you want to see this horrible war come to an end. I, too, have the same wish. But our land is still being attacked by the vile enemy. I’m not talking about the griffins who besieged Canterlot and several other cities all over Equestria. No. Our true enemy lies in his fortress in Gryphus. Unless he is defeated, our battles will not come to an end.”

It was clear that this statement didn’t make the ponies feel much better. But Twilight carried on. Her voice was truly uplifting, filled with determination.

“Know this: Princess Celestia and Princess Luna have trusted us with recovering our capital. Over the course of this entire war, we were fighting together, but we did so as separate divisions, squadrons and army groups. That’s why... That’s why I ask you for help! We have to stand together once more, but this time, not as earth ponies. Not as unicorns. Or pegasi. We must stand together as the ponies of Equestria!"

Her voice was becoming louder and stronger with every word. The sun started to rise.

“It’s true that, on the outside, each of us is different. We live in different parts of Equestria, we have different names, we look differently. But... we have fought, suffered and died together! Deep inside, in our hearts and souls, we are all children of this land! We cannot ignore the time when our land is in danger. We must fight! We must have courage! I don’t know if you will decide to follow me or not, but I want to live in Equestria with my friends! That’s why I will keep fighting! To the bitter end, if it must be!”

Her fiery speech touched many hearts. The ponies looked into each other, slowly embracing what Twilight told them. It’s true, many of them were friends to each other and they were all born here, in this land. However, Twilight wasn’t done.

“I... also want you to know that... I’m really glad to have met all of you. Especially you... Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy...”

She looked at the five ponies standing directly below her. Little silver tears glazed in Twilight’s eyes as she smiled upon them.

“You’re the greatest friends I could have ever hope for. All these times we had together... I will never forget them...” “Twilight!” Rainbow interrupted her.

“Don’t say another word! You know that you have our support anytime, anyplace. We can take on anyone!”

Fluttershy was also willing to aid her. Others followed her suit.

“I’m tired of this pointless violence... I want to protect Equestria and my friends!”

“Yeah, we would’ve followed you to the end of th’ world if it was needed, Twilight!” Applejack added with a briskly voice.

Rarity joined them, stating that despite hating the war, she wanted to teach the griffins a lesson or two and make them realize that ponies are not to be trifled with. Pinkie Pie didn’t want to be left behind either.

“If we win, this will call for a massive celebration. So once this whole mess is over, we’re gonna throw the biggest party Equestria has ever seen! Everypony will be invited!”

That last promise sealed the deal. Roused by Twilight’s words, and convinced that running away or hiding around in the corners won’t do them any good, every soldier was willing to follow the lead of Twilight and her companions. All units and teams were understanding the great mission before them.

“So, we’re going to fly back? About time,” Flare Star commented.

“You can count on my Dragon squadron to help you in the skies, Mirage.”

“Don’t forget about us,” Tornado Swirl and Overdrive stepped forward.

“And us, too,” Shamrock added.

“We may not be from Equestria, but we never abandon our allies. Right, Talisman?”

He nodded.

“We’re with you until the end.”

They were now preparing themselves for the battle. The ponies didn’t have any more doubts. Rarity gave Twilight the new banner with Equestrian symbol, as she was considered the leader of the strike team. Twilight held it in the air with her magic, moving her head from left to right. Then... a gleeful, moved smile appeared on her face.

“Thank you... thank you, everypony.”

She briefly closed her eyes before her expression became serious, as she turned around, in Canterlot’s direction.

“Then our time has come! Everypony, we’re gonna take back Canterlot today! Let us make haste! The sun and the moon will lead our way to victory! Know that this is not the day we will surrender! This is not the day we fall! This day we fight! FOR EQUESTRIA!!!”

A beam of light jetted from Twilight’s horn as she stood on her rear legs. Second later, it exploded into the same symbol that was on the banner. The signal was made. Twilight jumped down to the plains below and started dashing toward the city as fast as she could. Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rarity followed her without hesitation. Their units came along, one by one, hitting the ground running. The pegasi spread their wings and prepared for takeoff.

“Dragon squadron, follow my lead. We’re going back to Canterlot!” Flare Star ordered.

Wind Whistler and Rainfall were ready. All three soared into the morning sky. The two stallions from Garuda team were about to rise as well.

“This is it... Let’s go, Garuda 1!” Shamrock exclaimed.

Talisman nodded, and they took flight together. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive looked at each other before they followed the two aces. Firefly called her wingmares close to each other and briefly glimpsed at Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash with a big grin.

“I gotta say; having friends like you is indeed a blessing for her. All right, Mirage squadron! Time for the great comeback! All units, let’s make our way to the capital! Come on, team! Let’s do this! TO THE SKIES!”

All seven pegasi joined the Dragon and Garuda teams, who were ready to put even their own lives on the edge if it meant getting Canterlot back. From the skies, they saw Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie and Rarity leading the charge of the strike team. It was an impressive sight.

“Those feathered chumps will be in for a nasty surprise,” Cloud Kicker said.

“Yeah, I sure hope they won’t freak out when they see us coming,” Rainbow chuckled.

“This is going to be one for the history books,” Firefly remarked.

“FULL SPEED AHEAD!”

==========

0725 hrs

Canterlot Castle Town

The defenders were putting up a valiant effort in protecting the castle. As they had an advantage in terms of numbers, the fights soon escalated into the town itself. Phalanx was directing a few earth pony teams to help those trapped inside the houses. Unicorns used their magic to distract the griffins and allow the pegasi to pick them off easier. Colgate, as she was capable of temporarily freezing her targets, was leading the unicorn offence. Caught off guard by this sudden counter attack, the feathered soldiers needed a moment to regroup. Much to their disgrace, they were troubled even by the Cutie Mark Crusaders, who still had their catapult, and by continuously firing fruits and bricks, they gave some griffins a hard time.

The Wonderbolts fought together. Their actions managed to deliver a heavy blow against two enemy squadrons, forcing them to pull back. Sunburst led a valiant offence against Black squadron, wounding two griffins. The orange pegasus’ companions defeated the other two.

All pegasi squadrons were fighting tirelessly, but none of them had as much work to do as Mobius. Constantly dodging enemy assaults, supporting his allies and delivering crippling blows to the enemy, he fought like a whole squadron indeed. His presence alone buoyed the ponies. But even a powerful ace such as himself wasn’t invincible. Seven griffins surrounded him at one point and managed to wound him considerably. Mobius seemed completely unmoved by it, but Sky Eye was afraid the whole situation could prove to be too much, even for him. Luckily, when Quick Chaser and Thunder Flicker took some burden off his shoulders, the blue stallion thanked them with a smile.

“But, y’know, don’t you think it would’ve been nice if he’d actually talked and thanked us for real?” Quick Chaser asked his friend.

“I dunno... Focus, Sweeper 1, behind you!” Thunder Flicker hollered, as the cyan pegasus ducked under an upcoming enemy and allowed the tall flier to deliver a swift punch to the griffin’s beak.

Night Raven, who was overseeing the entire operation, was slowly losing his patience. How could it be that, even with so many troops under his command, the ponies still managed to put up such a good fight? Zeakros had reported to him that they were slowly being pushed back. Considering it to be the right moment, the grey-feathered soldier called for support in form of Echo’s Gult squadron.

At their sight, the Wonderbolts and the Phoenix squadron instantly took off in their direction to meet them in battle. A few unicorns accompanied them. Among them were Colgate as well as a dark green pony with a yellow-orange mane and a fireball of a cutie mark. She was called Firecracker Burst and had tendencies for spontaneous outbursts... quite literally. Colgate wasn’t feeling too certain around her, but her ability to shoot streams of hot blaze proved to be an effective weapon. She even managed to singe a few feathers, allowing the Phoenix squadron to easily take four enemy attackers down. At one point Colgate and Firecracker Burst even found each other side-by-side and decided to work together, peppering their enemies with ice and fire changeably.

Echo clashed with Mobius once more, though only briefly. He was interrupted by another ground assault from the Cutie Mark Crusaders. This was the last set of ammunition for them, however. Not discouraged by this one bit, the three fillies went deeper into the field to gather it back. Several other kids were aiding them, as it provided a valuable asset to the ground defense. Echo tried to intercept them, but Mobius got in his way, drawing the ace’s attention. The tables had turned. The majority of the griffin fighters were already exhausted, as they used most of their energy to break through the barrier, which eventually disappeared anyway.

Night Raven’s frustration grew.

“Gah! This is nonsense! What are those idiots doing out there? Red Cyclone will have our heads if we don’t capture the capital! Attention all units: carry on the fight. Any reserves that are still available are to join the battle now! Take no refuges!”

He then thought to himself aloud.

“Huh... Still, I wonder where the Mirage squadron is...”

“Silver 1 to Northwind 2! Come in, Northwind 2!” a voice of one of the soldiers sounded in Raven’s communicator.

“We have several contacts approaching from outside the city. They may be the enemy’s reinforcements! Your orders?”

Night Raven used his binoculars and noticed Twilight Sparkle, leading the ponies toward the city gates. Though he was more focused on the pegasi in the flight. He recognized his foes.

“Ah... there’s an answer to my question. So, you little ponies are planning an ambush, huh? How interesting. I’ll happily take you on... Silver 1, you are now in charge of this operation, alongside Northwind 1. Fight on. I have some guests to welcome.”

“... Understood. Silver 1 out.”

The grey griffon motioned about ten other soldiers that were observing the situation to intercept the strike team. Some of them went ahead to meet the pegasi in battle. Flare Star saw the griffins coming.

“Dragon 2, Dragon 3, break to the sides! We’ll take them on! Mirage, carry on the flight! Pinkie Pie, we’d appreciate the assistance of your unit."

“Okie-dokie-lokie! We’ve got plenty of surprise gifts for them here!” Pinkie called out.

Additionally, she pulled her party cannon out once more and opened fire, distracting the griffins with streamers and exploding balloons. Meanwhile, the Dragon squadron engaged the interceptors. Other ponies continued their charge. After a while, they reached the gates and immediately headed for the town area. Noticing the upcoming strike team, all ponies started cheering, emboldened with their arrival. Tornado Swirl, along with Overdrive, darted in the direction of the castle to aid the other squadrons. Applejack instantly dispatched her unit to help in the western part of the city, while Rarity sent her team to the eastern section.

Twilight remained in the center, praising Colgate and Firecracker Burst for good cooperation during her short absence. Phalanx, Gale and Sky Eye, who was overseeing Mobius’ condition the whole time, were all monitoring the entire operation, commenting that the mission was going smoothly. As time passed, the enemy threat level was constantly dropping to only about 40% within three hours. The second, more offensive phase of the battle started.

Ponies and griffins were clashing with each other almost constantly. Even though there were moments of temporal triumph for the ponies, the griffins had no intention of retreating so easily. Some ponies were visibly concerned seeing their capital badly damaged from incendiary bombs from earlier. Applejack’s units managed to secure the western part of the city and even helped several ponies in moving to safer areas. A few of them, grateful for help, offered their assistance in battle. Pinkie’s battalion and the Dragon squadron soon rejoined the main offence in Canterlot as they have bested the interceptors sent by Night Raven.

During the fleeting intervals in-between the battles, both sides reinforced themselves and carried on fighting. Rainbow Dash and her companions were especially busy, as some enemy squadrons constantly attempted to perform more air strikes. Thanks to Mirage’s synergy, none of them were successful. Firefly, Medley, Lightning Bolt and Cloud Kicker fought in a new formation, described as “offensive square”: Firefly and Lightning Bolt flew in the front with Medley and Cloud Kicker right behind them. This tactic allowed the fliers to easily break through enemy formations.

The sun pierced through several clouds that floated by the capital. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive, who were fighting alone for a while, noticed a group of three more enemies heading in the castle’s direction. Both pegasi managed to defeat the assailants but were showing clear signs of fatigue. They were fighting for the past six hours without rest.

“Hey... Overdrive... how are you doing?” Tornado asked casually when the situation briefly calmed down.

“Don’t worry... I still have plenty of gas left. We’re ain’t going down... I will fight... for Sea Spot and our friends... we can’t let them down,” she told him, having a mild shortness of breath.

“Yeah, you’re right... Listen, Overdrive, I think there’s something that you should know...” the green pegasus started.

“Considering we may not make out of this battle alive...”

“W-What are you saying? Of course we’ll make it!”

“But, just in case...”

“We WILL make it, Tornado!” Overdrive shouted. “Don’t talk like that! We’re both coming back alive, you hear me?”

Tornado was baffled to see his friend so irritated. Yet the lavender mare managed to calm down just as quickly as she went angry. He approached her.

“Hey... are you having a fever or something? Your face is all red.”

“Oops... Ah, Tornado... I guess there’s no point in hiding it anymore. I... I wanted to tell you something for a while, but...” Overdrive hesitated.

“I couldn’t force myself to spit it out...”

“What’s the matter?” Tornado asked.

“You know you can tell me anything. We’re good friends, after all.”

“Yeah, but... you’re actually... more than a friend to me...”

Tornado Swirl was surprised by these words. He was starting to wonder if she was about to say the same thing he was thinking about. His supposition came true when his orange-maned friend spoke again. A growing blush on her cheeks betrayed her.

“Tornado... we have to make it through. So, please... stay strong, like you always did. Don’t change. That’s the kind of pegasus I always knew, admired... and liked so much.”

“Overdrive... what are you...?”

“Tornado... I... I love you.”

That confession was quite sudden and touching at the same time. The green pegasus appeared to be shocked at first.

“W-What... did you say?”

“I love you!” Overdrive reiterated. “I really do...”

The initial surprise went by. Tornado smiled softly at his female companion, scratching himself behind the mane. Their sights met.

“Aw, man... looks like things didn’t worked out as I’ve planned...”

Overdrive wasn’t sure what he meant. He figured that this may be his only chance to tell her.

“Y’know, Overdrive... I... wanted to tell you something too, after the battle... but, I guess... now is better than never. I... I’ve been having a crush on you, too. For quite a while, to be honest... I like you... a lot.”

“Oh... Tornado, you mean it?” the lavender mare asked, her face turning red again.

“Yeah... Say... would you... Would you like to be my girlfriend after the war?” he asked her tentatively.

Overdrive got closer to him, so close they were practically brushing each others noses. Giggled with joy, she put her hooves around his neck.

“Why do you want me to wait that long? We can start right now.”

Then, her tone became more demanding.

“But only under one condition: now that you’ve confessed your feelings to me, you can’t die. Do you get me? You. Mustn't. Die.”

“Yeah, I know. Same to you,” Tornado replied, chuckling.

The two pegasi embraced for a moment before a sound of an explosion caught their attention.

“We still have a few griffins left to take down. Let’s go, Racer 1!”

“Right behind you, Burner 1, as always!” Overdrive responded.

Before they flew back to action, she gave a soft kiss on Tornado’s right cheek, saying:

“For good luck.”

“Thanks...”

His face has lightened up with a smile.

“Let’s move!”

Both pegasi rejoined the battle, now fueled by their genuine feelings and requited love for each other. The war might have been a destructive experience, but it could also cause a wonderful relationship to blossom. Because it was proven that at any given place or time, two beings can fall in love with and protect each other through even the most difficult times.

==========

1347 hrs

Canterlot

“The enemy is on their last threads! Carry on the offence!” Phalanx’s voice sounded in the ponies’ communicators.

“The threat level is down to 20%. Keep pounding them!”

“If this keeps up, Canterlot will be ours before sundown!” Gale exclaimed.

Meanwhile, inside the castle, Princesses Celestia and Luna observed the entire battle. Having noticed Twilight’s signal in the sky earlier, they knew that their part was done. It was actually Celestia’s idea to think of the new banner, as she figured it would represent not just Equestria, but also, all of ponykind. Both sisters looked at each other. They were tired, but happy.

“You have done well, Luna... How did felt, raising up the sun?” Celestia asked.

“It was... an unusual feeling. But in a good way,” Luna responded.

“Twilight and her friends have also done well. Still, I wish we could have aided them in a more direct way...”

“That would have been my desire, too, Luna. But they do not need our help. All of them... They are the hope of our land. I feel the war is slowly approaching its end... yet there will still be many sacrifices. Let’s support them by giving a sign of our gratitude.”

At that moment, the two winged unicorns closed their eyes. Their horns shined with glimmering light, causing a huge, glowing symbol from Twilight’s banner to appear over the castle. Every fighting pony saw the flashing and turned around to witness this unusual display. Once more their courage and determination were uplifted, prompting them to use their combined efforts to push the griffins away from the capital.

“Come on! They will not get past us!” Sunburst exclaimed. “Phoenix squadron, fight!”

“Time to wrap this up!” Thunder Flicker added. “Lancer squadron, up and at’em!”

“Leave something for us!” Quick Chaser’s voice sounded. “Go, Sweeper squadron!”

“We’re going downtown, I guess!” Flare Star remarked. “Dragon squadron, with me!”

“This is our chance, Garuda 1! Let’s strike them!” Shamrock joined the assault, with Talisman following him.

Sky Eye decided to keep Mobius around the castle, as he was showing signs of exhaustion, probably because of his wounds.

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, CANTERLOT DEFENDERS! YAY!”

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were pushing their catapult to follow the other soldiers. They didn’t wanted to be left behind either. Cheerilee chuckled upon seeing the vigor bursting out of them.

“Soarin’! Firebolt! Rapidfire! Fleetfoot! You’re with me! Take the griffins down!” Spitfire called out to her wingmates, ready to aid the others.

“Mirage squadron, attack formation! We’ll attack together!” Firefly ordered.

“Oooh, yeah!” Rainbow responded with excitement.

While not as thrilled, Fluttershy was also ready to assist. Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rarity led their units to provide ground support. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive came along as well.

“OK, everypony, let’s do this! Together!” Twilight Sparkle’s voice sounded in each and every radio.

An army of over one hundred unicorns, pegasi and earth ponies poured into the streets of Canterlot and had completely taken the skies, establishing air supremacy. Surprised by this sudden act of coalescence, the griffins could either stand and fight or fly back to their outposts in hopes of regrouping. Most of them chose the latter.

The castle was now safe, all that was left now were the last few enemy units that didn’t retreat or weren’t defeated. Shedding hope and putting their differences aside, the ponies were all fighting as one. Firefly’s Mirage squadron, along with the Wonderbolts, the Garuda team and every available pegasus squadron led the final strike toward the remaining enemies in the region. Against such powerful force and its unflinching resolve, the griffins stood little chance.

Victory was in sight.

And yet, Night Raven had one more opportunity for himself. He still had a total of twenty griffins under his command. Axe, who volunteered to represent the Talon squadron, was sticking with him this whole time. Raven decided to take on the pegasi, hoping to settle some unfinished business with one of them... Seeing an opening in Mirage’s formation, he performed a stunning move, charging head on and separating Fluttershy from the rest of the group. Rainbow saw him, but didn’t have enough time to stop his advance. Night Raven’s squadron, sans Zeakros, who had to retreat a while ago, kept Mirage’s attention. Even with the Wonderbolts and Garuda team supporting them, it was basically two griffins against one pegasus. Mobius, having suffered several wounds, had to pull out of the battlefield to recover. He already did a lot.

At this point, Fluttershy was facing Night Raven in a direct confrontation. That was his exact desire.

“This is our third encounter, wimp. It turns out Red Cyclone was right about you. We have lowered our guards a bit and you took the chance in defeating us. Persistent little pests!”

“Are you... believing what he said? That we were the ones who... assassinated your general?” Fluttershy asked.

“It’s a lie! Red Cyclone did it! Edge told us everything.”

“Ah... I was wondering where that traitor could have gone,” Night Raven snarled.

“Bah, it doesn’t matter. Once I’ll deal with you, he’s next.”

The griffon dueled against Fluttershy. Despite having a great advantage in speed and strength, the yellow pegasus have proved in the past that she was capable of fighting against even such strong foes. Fluttershy managed to dodge many of Night Raven’s attempts to harm her while delivering a kick or two. But her foe was clearly unfazed by her attacks and seemed to be toying with her for whatever reason.

When minutes languished, he suddenly reached into his communicator, saying: “Get her!” and surprising Fluttershy.

Suddenly, the pegasus’ wings were grabbed by Axe’s claws. Fluttershy screamed in pain as his talons struck her. Completely immobilized, she was at Night Raven’s mercy now. She remembered that the same thing happened to Medley and tried to call Rainbow or any other pegasus for help, but Night Raven didn’t allow her to do that. He tore her communicator off and crushed it, smiling sinisterly. Fluttershy was gripped with fear.

“Too bad... no one’s gonna save you now. Don’t worry... we don’t plan to break your wings... Just don’t die too quickly, I want to see how tough you are...”

Without warning, he viciously punched Fluttershy in the face, then followed up with another hit. Raven always took a glee in the slow torment of his victims. When Fluttershy moaned in pain after the third hit, the griffon fell into some sort of bloodthirsty rage. Night Raven relentlessly pummeled Fluttershy’s face, stomach and rib cage for a while. Axe held her incapacitated the whole time, also pleased with seeing Fluttershy completely powerless and defenseless, knowing she belonged to a team of pegasi that caused so much trouble to the Griffin Army.

After hitting her nearly forty times, Night Raven paused. Feeling intense pain, Fluttershy was gasping for air, barely being able to see because of a small stream of blood covering her eyes.

“What’s the matter? Still alive? Won’t be long now,” the grey griffon croaked.

“But still... I must say, you pegasi are quite durable. You’ve lasted longer than a different poor fool... She had the nerve of fighting against four of my men and actually defeated one of them... before I had to take point. Too bad she passed out so quickly...”

What Night Raven said caused Fluttershy to lift her head. That short description reminded her of somepony she knew... “So... it was you! You killed Blueberry!”

Night Raven turned his sight back on her, grabbing her face and staring into Fluttershy’s eyes.

“Ah... so she was a friend of yours, huh? Indeed, I finished that mare off. She was tough and could have been a strong foe... It disappointed me that I had to kill her so suddenly. Initially, she passed out, but still squealed loudly when I took her wings off... Heheh... Truly, this was a music to my ears.”

“Why... How could you!” Fluttershy exclaimed, horrified.

“Why are you being so cruel? Do you really hate us that much...?”

“Hate? No, no, you’ve got it wrong,” Night Raven replied.

“Personally, I have nothing against you or your kind. And I don’t even agree with Red Cyclone’s revolution. All I really want is a strong opponent to fight against. I don’t need another reason. I just like to fight. It’s my nature.”

“But why! Why did you killed her!” Fluttershy screamed, trying to wiggle herself free from Axe’s grasp. He still held her tight.

“You still want to know why? Fine, I’ll tell you,” Night Raven grinned.

“It’s simple. I killed her because I could! Because it was fun! There’s no greater joy for me than fighting a strong opponent and utterly crush it after a glorious battle! That’s what this war is also about. It’s glorious! Don’t you agree? Huh... I can see that you don’t. That’s alright...”

Fluttershy was feeling conflicting emotions. She was angry at Night Raven’s cruelty, but also scared. The pain in her body was excruciating. Raven came closer and grabbed her face again, driving his talons into Fluttershy’s left cheek.

“Let me put you down like the wimp you are,” he proclaimed, ready to strike.

Fluttershy closed her eyes...

But she knew one thing and awareness of that was beyond her pain and fear. She had no intentions of dying here or, at the very least, not by cowering in fear.

“N-NO! NO!!!”

Pushing herself to the very limits, Fluttershy hit Axe with her head, causing him to release the yellow pegasus. Night Raven looked stunned when he got kicked in the chest and slightly staggered back, growling. Fluttershy was free and flew again. Her voice was trembling with anger, her eyes flared with fire.

This griffon that hovered before her has crossed the line.

“No! It’s wrong! There is nothing glorious about war! This is just plain killing!” she screamed.

“You’ve gone too far, Night Raven! I will never forgive you! I will avenge Blueberry!”

Night Raven laughed at those bold words.

“And you plan to take on both of us? You really do have a death wish...”

Suddenly, Axe was knocked away by another pegasus who breached the airspace. It was Derpy; she managed to move away from the main fighting when she saw Axe flying at a distance. Certain that her friends would finish the job, Derpy went to fight against the murderer of her best friend, asking Fluttershy to stay alive.

Night Raven didn’t seemed to care.

“Huh... Then it is between us, then... Well then, I’ll send you to your friend to meet her!”

“I won’t lose to a vile murderer like you!” Fluttershy yelled at him.

“Do you honestly believe you can defeat me? You’re just a weak pony...”

“I may be weak... and I may be afraid of you... But I won’t run away! I’ve promised myself that... I won’t run! Never again! You’re going to pay for all the innocent lives you’ve destroyed!”

Night Raven seemed to be enjoying Fluttershy’s bold words. He scoffed at her.

“You’re quite a loudmouth. Who do you think you are, you wimp?”

“My name is Fluttershy!” the yellow pegasus responded.

She was no longer afraid, her own determination was strengthening her words.

“I’m a member of the Mirage squadron! And I’ve sworn to protect Equestria and my friends! I’m a pony that represents the Element of Kindness! But, to you... I will show no mercy!”

Darting toward Night Raven and surprising him completely, Fluttershy tackled the griffon soldier. Fueled by her desire to avenge Blueberry, she unleashed a barrage of strong punches and kicks. If someone had seen the yellow pegasus at this very moment, they would have never guessed that, normally, she was a timid and shy pony.

After several successful attacks, Fluttershy yelled and delivered a powerful kick straight into Night Raven’s neck. He screamed. The great force of the blow broke it. Night Raven stared at the infuriated Fluttershy and uttered his last words:

“Ugh... good... kill... Well fought.....”

A few seconds later, he fell from the sky, defeated. His bloody spree came to an end. Derpy was still fighting Axe, but was about to best him as well. Fluttershy looked at her hooves, mumbling.

“I... I did it... I... d-did... it... Blueberry... you can rest.... now... Ohh...”

Overwhelmed with pain, Fluttershy lost the last few ounces of strength and started plummeting down, limply. She felt like her entire body was going to explode, her head was buzzing... Unable to flap her wings or call for help, she accepted her fate... She closed her eyes and prepared for the inevitable impact... when suddenly, she heard a familiar voice, calling her name:

“Fluttershy! Hang on!”

Cloud Kicker was flying to her, as fast as she could. Derpy called her upon seeing Fluttershy falling down. The violet pegasus managed to grab Fluttershy by the tail. Then Cloud moved her on top of her own back, sighing in relief. Cloud descended to an area outside of Canterlot to avoid some still remaining clashes. She slowly laid Fluttershy on the grass under the tree. The poor yellow pegasus was jolting mildly, moaning in pain and had a bleeding wound on the forehead. The pain was so pervasive she couldn’t even move, let alone stand up.

Cloud Kicker nuzzled her gently, trying to make Fluttershy open her eyes.

“Come on, Fluttershy, wake up. Please...”

“Oww... Agh... Cloud... Kicker...” Fluttershy responded weakly.

“Help... I can’t move... Uhh... It h-hurts... Help... Please...”

“Stay with me! You’re gonna be OK!”

She then reached for her radio, showing small signs of panic in her voice.

“Mirage squadron, this is Sunny. Respond, anypony! Airmare down!”

Rainbow Dash answered the call instantaneously. When she learned of Fluttershy’s condition, she was horrified. Rainbow asked Cloud Kicker to look after Fluttershy until she got there with the rest of the squadron. Cloud turned her attention back to the wounded friend.

“What happened?”

“I... fought against... Night Raven. He... will not hurt anypony... anymore.”

Fluttershy winced in pain.

“Blueberry... I have avenged her.”

Cloud Kicker was impressed.

“You’ve defeated him? Wow, I remember he was pretty strong. It must have been a rude awakening for him. Just lie still, now. The others will be here soon."

“You... you saved my life... Thank you...” Fluttershy whispered to the violet mare.

“I guess that makes us even, huh?” Cloud Kicker grinned.

“FLUTTERSHY!”

A loud shriek was heard from the sky. Rainbow Dash quickly landed and ran to the two pegasi, clearly disturbed. She inclined before Fluttershy. The yellow pegasus smiled dimly.

“Rainbow... I knew you’d come... How goes... the battle?”

“Seems like we’ve made it. But never mind that, what about you?” Rainbow asked.

“Ummm... I’ll be fine... Ow! It hurts...”

Within a few moments, the rest of the Mirage squadron arrived. Derpy had managed to defeat Axe, which ended the existence of the Talon squadron. But the fight left some scars on her. Derpy’s left wing was injured. Lightning Bolt went ahead to treat her injury. When Cloud Kicker told them what happened, the eyes of the pegasi widened. Firefly approached Fluttershy.

“You did an awesome job, Butterfly. That was a great victory for you,” she praised the yellow mare.

”Now just take it easy. Everything will be alright, you’ll see.”

“I know... I’m not afraid anymore...”

Fluttershy then passed out, emaciated and fatigued. This exceptional feat of defeating a superior foe left her greatly weakened.

==========

1500 hrs

Canterlot

When Twilight and her friends were informed of everything, they too went to see Fluttershy. Rarity was deeply saddened, but Lightning Bolt eased her worries—Fluttershy was going to live. The white pegasus tended to some of her wounds, but the yellow pony needed urgent medical attention. Twilight used her magic to wrap Fluttershy around in a protective bubble. Additionally, she asked Applejack and Rainbow to walk underneath it just in case she would have run out of energy to uphold the bubble and so they could prevent Fluttershy from hitting the ground. No such thing happened, however. As they were walking toward the castle, all ponies watched their march. The griffins were finally away from Canterlot. This battle became a resounding success for all ponies.

The casualties on the griffin side were quite large, with over forty soldiers killed and more than fifty seven wounded. But the ponies lost approximately twenty troops and a majority of their forces were wounded, some heavily or even critically. They were primarily in need of treatment. Sunburst’s Phoenix squadron lost two fliers. Quick Chaser reported his entire team sustained wounds; luckily none of them were wounded mortally. Thunder Flicker himself had a minor scratch wound on his back. Thanks to Flare Star’s perception, her Dragon squadron wasn’t hurt much, only Wind Whistler had a small claw mark on her flank. Tornado Swirl and Overdrive were both fine, just greatly exhausted. Mobius’ wounds were already cured, and he felt as good as a newborn. Even Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were hurt a little bit when their catapult was destroyed by one of the griffin soldiers, but Cheerilee was already taking care of them.

Phalanx could now officially declare a victory over the radio.

“All enemies throughout Canterlot had been defeated. Mission accomplished! Operation Rebirth is a success! We’ve got our capital back!”

“We’d both like to send our thanks to everypony who fought so bravely,” Gale added.

“Especially to our aerial aces, the Mirage squadron. Naturally, you all did a great job out there. Yes, without you, ponies of Equestria, this victory would never occur. May the stars bless you!”

“I think Fluttershy deserves some kind of honor,” said Lightning Bolt. “She fought against someone much stronger than her and won.”

“A triumphant entry into the capital isn’t enough for you?” Medley asked. “Everypony is looking at her. Too bad she can't see it, the poor thing...”

“But they may be worried that something serious happened to her...” Derpy pointed out.

Indeed, some ponies were whispering between each other and staring at the unconscious pegasus in a bubble. Shamrock was among the crowd. He watched the march with a very worried expression on his face. Cloud Kicker approached him and assured the green flier that Fluttershy. He wanted to come with them. Nopony disagreed.

When Twilight’s group reached the castle after a few minutes, Princesses Celestia and Luna went outside to meet them. Twilight collapsed, hitting her knees against the floor, exhausted. Fluttershy landed softly on Rainbow’s back, moaning in pain. The blue pegasus and Shamrock seemed worried about their friend. When Celestia helped Twilight stand up, the princess put her arm on Rainbow’s shoulder, smiling.

“You deserve this victory and a long rest, all of you. Thanks to your efforts, our capital is now secure. We can only offer you our most sincere gratitude.”

Gale had also came out of the castle and told Spitfire something that caused her to jump in surprise. She revealed that the reports of Canterlot being liberated made the ponies who were still imprisoned in other cities do an unlikely thing. They had organized their own counter-strikes, catching the occupants off-guard and, with a small assistance of the nearby stationed pegasi teams, they had managed to recover the cities. Trottingham, Hoofington, Baltimare and even Manehattan were back in the ponies’ hooves once more.

This new set of information made those who gathered on before the castle celebrate with loud cheers. But before Pinkie Pie announced the start of another huge party, Princess Celestia reminded her subjects that there was still one more factor that needed to be eliminated if the war was to come to an end.

“Red Cyclone is still in command of the Griffin Army. And his wrath will be great when he will learn that Canterlot has been defended,” Princess Luna warned.

“We cannot lie down and think of this war being over just yet. Our battle will still continue," Princess Celestia added.

"But, for now..."

Her sight rested on the crowd of numerous tired and bruised ponies.

"I believe we all deserve a brief respite. Come inside, everypony. The medics shall treat your wounds. Pinkie Pie, Applejack, please lend a helping hoof to our chefs and prepare meals for everypony.”

Both earth ponies were more than glad to obey this command. Rainbow carried Fluttershy inside and, in a manner of minutes, she was under the care of Nurse Redheart in the emergency room. Though the yellow mare’s wounds were serious and she herself was barely awake and breathing heavily, the nurse calmed Rainbow Dash and the others, who were looking at Fluttershy from behind the glass.

“Nothing threatens her life, but she needs to rest for at least a day.”

Firefly and her team, as well as Shamrock, were relieved. Rarity welcomed that statement with happy tears. While she wanted to talk with her, the nurse couldn’t allow anypony inside. It was to ensure that Fluttershy would recover from a brutal beatdown. Rarity and Shamrock soon left to spread the news.

Firefly was still impressed by her feat.

“Wow... to think she took on a guy who was head and shoulders above her and defeated him... I’m never gonna say another bad word about her.”

“Derpy, what about you?” Medley asked. “Did you managed to strike Axe down?”

“Yes... he was pretty good... but I’ve managed to avenge Carrot Top. Though, if I’m to be honest with you, girls... I felt pity for him. Really. I actually feel pity toward all griffins. Red Cyclone manipulated them into doing all these bad things...”

“Can’t say I feel the same...” said Firefly, “but it’s clear to me that unless we take Red Cyclone down, this war will not end anytime soon.”

They came into conclusion that as soon as Fluttershy recovers, they would formulate a plan. One that would allow them to reach Gryphus and defeat Red Cyclone once and for all. Derpy suddenly remembered something.

“Oh... I’ve almost forgot. I thought you should know about this. Axe told me that Red Cyclone was constructing a new kind of superweapon to be used in the war.”

“Say WHAT?!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Wait a minute... why would he say that, anyway?”

“Well...”

“Urgh... You have defeated me... Well done...”

Axe, with a weak voice, praised Derpy upon being precipitated from the sky and hitting the ground hard.

“Now, finish me...”

Derpy looked at him with a stern expression, silent. She didn’t wanted to kill him. Her vengeance was already complemented. But something still troubled her.

“Tell me! Why did you tried to kidnap my daughter?”

“Red Cyclone’s orders...” Axe replied.

“He wanted a prisoner... or rather an object to torture... to show the rest of you that he was serious about his plan of weeding you out and exterminating. I obeyed that order only because I wanted to escape death... But now I see that... what I did was... wrong... I’m sorry...”

Derpy simply stood next to him, staring into his orange eyes. Axe, seeing that his opponent was hesitating, reached his left claw to the bag he had with him and pulled out a picture. He showed it to Derpy.

“If you’re not going to kill me, then... at least take this with you. And tell your friends...”

“About what?” Derpy asked. “What is this thing?”

“This... will be Red Cyclone’s trump card... Fortress Intimidation. It is being constructed in Gryphus... and it’s on the final stage... of assembly. When... it’s... completed..... uhhh......”

He didn’t finished the sentence. Axe passed away. Derpy took the photo with her and looked at the corpse of her opponent once more before flying back.

“Even though you’ve killed my best friend... I hated you... But I do not blame you. It wasn’t your fault. Now I see it. Red Cyclone is responsible for this whole madness. We’ll stop him, be certain of that.”-----------------

Derpy then showed the photo to her friends. They saw an enormous, heavily fortified base. It really did resembled a fortress, being guarded by a lot of anti-air turrets. And this was only the exterior of the base. The interior was, quite possibly, even more fortified. Medley's jaw dropped. Applejack remained in hopes of learning something that would later be told to the rest of her friends... but when she saw that huge construction, she cursed under her breath (“Consarn it!”).

Cloud Kicker whined.

“Aw, come on... And I thought we’ve had him on the ropes!”

“Nopony said this will be easy...” Lightning Bolt reminded her.

“Well, I don’t care!” Rainbow Dash said aloud.

“Let him try! He can build as many bases as he wants. We’re gonna take it down anyway!”

Other silently agreed, but the imposing sight made them feel insecure...

==========

1711 hrs

Canterlot Castle, Emergency Room

Later, when Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie and Twilight returned to their respective units to check on their soldiers’ condition, Lightning Bolt, Cloud Kicker, Derpy and Medley already went to their quarters to get some rest. Rainbow and Firefly remained alone, observing Fluttershy. Though she still had many bruises on her body, her condition was improving.

“Hey, I think she’s getting better,” Rainbow accosted.

“Yeah... She does seem to be breathing, at least,” Firefly responded.

“Let’s hope she gets better soon...” the pink mare sighed.

“Something on your mind?”

“You know...”

Rainbow knew. Firefly’s mind wasn’t really bothered by this “Fortress Intimidation” that was being constructed by Red Cyclone and his ruffians. She was still thinking about Black Star and all these words he told her via Edge’s beak.

“When we get to Gryphus... I’m gonna take on Black Star... I wonder if I can...”

“Of course you can! That guy deserves to be punished,” said Rainbow.

“Besides, you’ve made a promise to your mom and dad, remember?”

“Yeah, I know... And I will keep it. But still... ”

“Firefly, we’re gonna talk about it later, OK? Right now, let’s wait for Fluttershy to get better. Sometimes you need to focus on the present rather than future...”

Firefly grumbled in accordance. Rainbow yawned and asked Firefly if she could take a short nap. Now she knew how her friends were feeling; everypony was exhausted after the battle. It had been a great success, but the ponies worked for it with their sweat, tears and blood. Firefly assured Rainbow that she can get a rest without any worries.

As Rainbow was about to close her eyes and fall asleep, Firefly said kindly:

“If you like, you can rest your head on my flank. I don’t mind.”

“Thanks, Firefly... That’s nice of you...”

A silent yawn escaped Rainbow's mouth.The blue pegasus smiled as she lay next to Firefly, hearing her heartbeat. It soon turned out to be a sort of lullaby for her. When Firefly looked at Rainbow, who drifted to sleep moments later, she smiled, too. Though she didn’t want to admit it out loud, Firefly felt really comfortable when Rainbow was around her. It somehow eased Firefly’s doubts and lessened her stress. It was as if some sort of inner fire was ignited in her soul...

But as soon as Rainbow Dash started snoring quietly, indicating she was fast asleep, Firefly’s face was quickly filled with worries again. There were still some things left unfinished... She thought to herself:

“Today, we have won. But... the most important battle is yet to come... Mom... Dad... please, watch over me. I shall see to it that Black Star will get punished, like I’ve promised you. That heartless bastard... nothing justifies what he did... So... why do I feel so... confused...? Is killing him the only way to...? Heh... I guess Rainbow is right. I really am thinking too much. Well...I should get some rest.”

Firefly then lay next to Rainbow, closed her eyes and fell asleep minutes later.