Journey from Darkness

Chapters

Prologue Side Story: Midnight Eclipse
Chapter 1: Path of Redemption
Chapter 2: Crossroads
Chapter 3: Plague Potion
Chapter 4: Broken Promise
Chapter 5: Harsh Truth
Chapter 7: Preparations
Chapter 9: Bitter Truths
Chapter 10: Take Two
Chapter 11: Teachings
Chapter 12: Black Claw
Chapter 13: Reunion
Chapter 14: Nobility Falls
Chapter 15: Trials
Prologue: Fall into Darkness
Chapter 6: Lunar Confessions
Chapter 8: Deception
Chapter 16 (Finale): Return of the King

Prologue Side Story: Midnight Eclipse

Born during war, deprived of both Mother and Father, raised by the fallen Generals of her mother's army… and completely unknown to her Mother's enemy. Most of the citizens of Equestria had no notion that the black alicorn mare existed. Her need for justice against her Mother's destroyer developed into a drive for vengeance that burned as brightly as her first real memory – the dazzling explosion of light that took her mother from her, shortly before she became a yearling. Rising from the ashes of the final battle, the Earth Stallion, Golden Blade, and the broken Pegasus, Fire Mane raised her as their own, teaching her of her history, and the ugly truths of the war.

Golden Blade taught Midnight the ways of political warfare and how to overthrow the current leader. Fire Mane instructed her in the ways of flight and aerial tactics. Golden Blade and Fire Mane shaped her into a beautiful and lethal alicorn devoted to vengeance against Celestia for taking away her father, banishing her mother and maiming her foster parents. News of Coltyn's escape reached their ears along with the victory speech from Celestia claiming that rewards would be given to anypony who helped capture the criminal. Golden Blade knew that Coltyn wouldn't look for them other than scrying magic to keep them safe. They didn't know how he escaped or why he had not tried to continue the fight but they knew two maimed ponies and a foal would not be the best in continuing the war.

Midnight took all of her foster parent's lessons to heart and let it fuel her anger and need for vengeance. Golden Blade and Fire Mane watched Midnight grow into a fine mare, strong and agile whose only weak point was magic casting due to lack of materials. She could do basic things like levitate and manipulate objects but it would take some more study to really gain a mastery of it.
Midnight got her hooves on a book containing transformation spells and like her father was able to quickly grasp and understand the mechanics of the spells. In just a week of study she could take on the form of anypony she saw. Taking on the form of Fire Mane she went out and found a pony she knew from the camp and inquired as to what happened to Coltyn. With a sour look and sad tone the young stallion told her that he rolled over and accepted defeat and disbanded the troops like a coward. She couldn't believe her ears but with similar stories from other ex-warriors she felt disgusted. She figured that Celestia had brainwashed him and that maybe he just needed to be reminded of the goal and she began to plot her vengeance.

Over the centuries she kept herself hidden and tried many times to disfigure, dismember and destroy Celestia. Her attempts were either stopped or just missed but her deep-seated hatred kept her going. Then came the day when Celestia announced to the world that she would be a mother. The news filled Midnight with anticipation and she formulated a plan for the vengeance she had craved for so many centuries. Her pegasus assistant, Blaze, was eager to help. The plan was simple, use her shadow shift ability to get into the royal chamber, grab the foal, and disappear into the shadows again. As the day drew near, she set Blaze to seek out a temporary base, from which they could enact the first steps of her scheme. Blaze found a rundown stable outside of Manehatten and they busied themselves with preparations.

The day came and everywhere ponies knew that there would soon be a new foal born into the world. Midnight moved through the shadows to Canterlot. Silently she observed the birth of not one but two alicorn fillies. A sadistic smile crossed her muzzle knowing that her deed will not only break Celestia's heart but will also tear apart the twins. So after the birth, once the fillies were separated from their mother, she pounced. From under their crib Midnight slid and with the delicacy of a mother, raised the blue filly from her bed making sure not to disturb the pink one.

"You, firstborn of Celestia, shall be used to strike a deep blow to the sun," Midnight cooed, softly. "I will laugh as I watch your mother's heart break and in her deep despair I will strike her down and finally eclipse your wretched mother," Midnight explained, sinking back into the shadows.

The two foalnappers placed the child in a pile of straw, and Midnight put the foal into a deep magical sleep. As they searched for a permanent place to hide, the two began caring for the foal – planning to raise the child as their own and then use her against Celestia. Midnight and Blaze were talking about future plans as the foal played around their hooves when the door burst open, startling them and causing Midnight to shy, hitting the foal in the head with her hoof.

"Eclipse!" Coltyn gasped, seeing the fresh blood on his daughter's hoof.

Midnight looked up at him, and her eyes widened so much that the whites could be seen all the way around the sclera. "Father?"

Coltyn's eyes fell on the shivering form of the foal on the floor between Midnight and Blaze, and his own eyes widened, in appalled shock. "What have you done?"

"Vengeance, Father. For over nine-hundred and fifty years I've waited, guiding and honing the flame of justice in those who remained faithful to Mother, and now, finally, we have struck a blow for vengeance against that wretched Princess, for banishing Mother and nearly killing all of her friends. After you skulked off like a coward, someone had to take up the torch."

Her voice was icy with scorn, but she was waiting for him to praise her for her work. The foal lay on the floor, shivering in terror, and bleeding from the ragged stump where her horn had been torn off. The tiny filly's eyes were glazed and feverish with pain, and she was giving out pitiful little squeals that were almost inaudible, but Midnight hardened her heart to the sounds, refusing to be distracted from the threat her father represented.

Defensively standing over the foal, she was taken unprepared as Coltyn lowered his horn. Midnight tried to cast a protection spell but Coltyn was more powerful and he blasted Midnight and Blaze away from the suffering baby. He reached out with his magic, lifting the weakened little pony into his saddlebag, and then whirled and galloped away. Midnight shook her head, wincing as she cleared her mind. Recovering from the impact, she looked over at Blaze, horrified to find his neck twisted under his body and blood seeping from his mouth. She bellowed, cursing the sun and everything under it. Her assistant was dead and her father betrayed her. Rage burned her insides and further fueled her hate.

***

Then a few years later came the day she had waited for, the return of her mother. Midnight didn't know where to look so she figured that Nightmare would return to one of the larger towns to quickly rebuild her army and strike down Celestia. She never considered the possibility that she would go to a town like Ponyville, despite the little town having been built atop the site of her mother's last battle against Celestia, or that her mother would lead six ponies to the old ruins in Everfree.

Midnight arrived at the ruins in time to see the prodigy unicorn and five other ponies attack Nightmare Moon with a familiar rainbow light. No pony heard her scream for her mother as the elements purged the darkness from the alicorn's heart. Midnight could feel the rage burning inside her as she moved to put an end to the ponies but the sudden warmth of the sun on her back made her quickly vanish into the shadows. Silently she listened to the interchange between Celestia and the small filly she called Princess Luna. Midnight looked on in horror and disgust as Luna cried and nuzzled the enemy.

"Murderers," Midnight snarled, disappearing into the shadow. "I will have my revenge. I just need the right distraction."

Chapter 1: Path of Redemption

Secrets and lies have been the story of Coltyn Pendragon’s life. He had devoted himself to Luna, Princess of the Night, or as she called herself before her banishment, Nightmare Moon. Coltyn was a general in the war against Celestia to end her tyranny but fate had other plans. The army of the night lost the war, and any hope to complete the dream set forward by Luna. But Coltyn chose not to give up and for nearly a thousand years he plotted and planned his revenge. However, all his scheming faded to nothing when he found his own daughter had committed the ultimate crime of breaking a unicorn’s horn off. Moreover, what she’d done was worse, because the victim was a helpless alicorn foal, the newborn daughter of Princess Celestia. Coltyn saved the foal’s life but was not able to fix the damage to her horn, so he sealed her magic to keep her alive, leaving a star shaped scar on her forehead.

When Coltyn stood at the door to Celestia’s room after rescuing the filly, he looked on the poor foal and made a vow. “I will find a way to fix this. Have faith we will meet again and I will right the wrong that you have suffered,” Coltyn whispered softly in the foal’s ear as a tear fell from his eye.

With his final words he knocked on the door and teleported before anypony could answer.

Coltyn hooked himself up to his cart and made his way to Trottingham where some of the best medical minds lived and worked. He was hoping to find a way to make amends for what was – in his eyes – his greatest mistake.

***

Years passed, and Coltyn had given up on hiding his identity. Coltyn’s coat was brilliant silver with his mane and tail having various shades of purple which he kept long but neat. His bright blue eyes hid a wealth of knowledge as his cutie mark – a ten pointed star with the center being a rich blue with alternating purple and white points with smaller blue stars on the four cardinal directions – graced his flank. One day, Coltyn was browsing the local paper when an article about a disturbance at the Grand Galloping Gala caught his eye. The trouble was caused by six ponies who just also happened to be the same who defeated Nightmare Moon and returned her to pure innocence. The six were supposed to be the living definition of harmony and to hear of them acting in such a way was strange. A few months later news of Discord’s fiasco reached Trottingham and Coltyn, having lived through Discord’s first rampage; started making plans to leave. He gathered all his supplies and recent research and made his way to Ponyville, hoping he could be of help.

Coltyn decided to take the train to cause less suspicion rather than teleporting to the little town. Coltyn gathered a small bag of research materials and put on his slightly faded royal blue cloak which covered his flank and headed for the train station. The ride to Manehatten was not bad but the two day delay worried him somewhat, as he was gripped by an increasing sense of urgency. Coltyn breathed a deep sigh of relief as the train called for passengers to Ponyville. The train pulled into Ponyville and Coltyn was greeted with some disturbing sights. All of the ponies seemed to still be recovering from Discord's escape. When he asked them about what happened none were willing to share any details or just made excuses to be elsewhere. Coltyn tried to get more information from the ponies but none would elaborate on what Discord did. Seeing that his efforts to gain information from the common ponies would yield no answers he sought out the Princess’ personal student and wielder of the Element of Magic – Twilight Sparkle.

***

Coltyn arrived at the Library and was surprised to see that she was out with no date or time of return. Knocking, Coltyn hoped that someone could answer his questions. Coltyn was shocked a bit as a small purple and green dragon opened the door.

“How can I help you?” the dragon asked.

Gulping hard Coltyn replied, “I was looking for Miss Sparkle, do you know where I could find her, mister?”

The dragon looked quizzically at Coltyn, “I’m Spike. Why are you looking for her? I have never seen you around here before.”

“That makes sense since I have not visited Ponyville. I am here doing researched and I was hoping to get some aid from, according to what I hear, the most powerful unicorn of this generation.”

“You’re right, Twilight is the most powerful unicorn but she is out right now. She’ll be back later tonight.”

“That is fine. Do you mind if I take a look around the library?”

“No, just put back what you take down. Cleaning up after Twilight’s study sessions is hard enough.”

Coltyn chuckled because the dragon obviously didn’t know how research worked. Coltyn set down his bag and pulled out twenty different medical and anatomy books. Spike looked at the great big pile of books and sighed.

“What’s wrong?” Coltyn asked.

“You study just like Twilight,” Spike sighed, looking at the pile of books.

“Well, research requires a lot of referencing and crosschecking. The information needed isn’t usually all in one book, in fact if all you can find on one topic is in one book it becomes evident that what you’re researching doesn’t exist and is most likely fiction.”

“Hmm… I never thought of that before. Maybe I’ll have to give Twilight a break about her messes.”

A thoughtful frown drew Coltyn’s brows together. “A serious researcher usually cleans up after him or herself, so that they know where all their materials are and the work space is organized. It helps to keep disparate projects separated.”

“I wish Twilight would be so considerate some days,” Spike huffed.

Coltyn chuckled as he sat down to study. As Coltyn opened the texts which showed signs of considerable age and pulled a few from his saddlebag which Spike had never seen before which were written in a different language. The dragon was curious as to the books he had never seen, even in the Canterlot library.

“What are those old books? I haven’t seen them in the Canterlot archives,” Spike asked curiously.

“These are my own personal books; advanced magic and potions and it doesn’t surprise me that you haven’t seen them since they haven’t been printed in nearly a thousand years,” Coltyn responded.

“Better keep them away from Twilight. Wait… how do you have them if they’re that old?” Spike inquired.

“That is a long story and I’d rather not tell. It’s very personal,” Coltyn replied with a smirk.

Spike shrugged as he continued cleaning the library. Coltyn began flipping through the pages while taking notes in a separate notebook.

***

Hours passed and Coltyn became so engrossed in his research, he failed to realize that Twilight had come home until she called for her assistant.

“Spike, I’m home!” Twilight called, closing the door behind her.

“Hey Twilight, there’s somepony here to see you in the study,” Spike replied from upstairs.

Twilight set down her saddlebags and approached the pony sitting in her study chamber. “Hello,” Twilight greeted but didn’t receive a reply. “Hello,” she said louder tapping him on the shoulder.

“Oh… greetings, Miss Sparkle,” Coltyn gasped with surprise.

“Oh, my! I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you,” Twilight apologized.

“No need to apologize, I actually came here to speak with you.”

“Really? Why? Who are you?”

“My name is Coltyn Pendragon and I’m here to see how you are after the Discord event,” Coltyn informed Twilight.

“Well… I’m doing fine,” Twilight said, uncomfortable.

“Really? You don’t seem to be fine.”

“I’m fine, really.”

“If you say so,” he replied doubtfully. “I’m also curious as to how the others are handling themselves.”

“Nothing seems to be out of the ordinary, we’ve all gone back to doing what we always did.”

“I see. Well I’m also here doing my own research so I will be in and out regularly.”

“That’s fine. I’ll tell Spike to keep a desk set up so you have a place to work.”

“My thanks, Miss Sparkle. By the way may I ask you about what happened to you while Discord was free?”

Twilight took a step back. “Why do you want to know about that?”

“Well from what I read, last time he was in Equestria he didn’t really take an interest in anypony and just drove them all equally mad. However, with him taking an interest in you and the other Elements of Harmony I am worried about the damage he may have done.”

“Well we’ve all been handling the aftermath fairly well. Some of the ponies weren’t as lucky though.”

“I feared some would end up permanently damaged, just like last time, but how are you holding up Miss Sparkle?”

“Please call me Twilight and I’m not too bad, I sometimes have nightmares but that is expected after such an event.”

“Fair enough,” Coltyn said, looking out the window at the moon high in the night sky. “It’s getting late and I should excuse myself. I would like to continue this conversation tomorrow.”

“Yes, that would be nice,” Twilight said.

Coltyn began packing up replacing the books he took down and putting his personal books into this saddlebag. Twilight saw a few books that she had never seen before slide into his bag but figured she would ask about them later. As Coltyn pulled the hood up on his cloak and walked outside. Coltyn turned and smiled slightly as Twilight stood in the doorway as his horn lit with a dark aura and he disappeared into the night.

***

Coltyn appeared in his cart in Trottingham, taking off his bag and cloak lit a fire and sat down. Coltyn pulled down an ancient scroll on reversing Discord’s chaos effects and began making notes on what he needed. He had everything except a vial of adult dragon’s blood and a few plants that weren’t in bloom. Coltyn sighed but thought that maybe if given freely instead of taken the young dragon’s blood might be enough if backed with carnation oil. With a slight smile he readied his cart for travel. Coltyn began drawing intricate circles and designs in the earth and then levitated his cart to the center of the circle. He placed his hooves on the edge of the circle and concentrated as the lines glowed white as the cart disappeared in a cloud of white. Coltyn followed suit as the dark aura surrounded him and with a flash he was with his cart just outside of Ponyville. Satisfied of his location he went inside to get some rest.

***

Coltyn woke up as the rooster crowed and stretched his limbs to loosen them from sleeping on his hooves. He followed his morning ritual of eating breakfast then setting to the task of grooming. Levitating his brush he began meticulously grooming himself starting with his mane, making sure to comb every inch of his coat and finally his long tail. He prepared his saddlebag and brought a notebook containing his research notes. Coltyn, putting on his cloak; opened the door to his cart and was looking right in the big blue eyes of a bright pink mare.

Coltyn took a step back. “May I help you?”

“Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie. Are you moving to Ponyville? Why do you sleep in this cart? Are you another pony like The Great and Powerful Trixie? I hope you don’t cause any fillies or colts to wake an ursa minor and have it rampage around town. You know you have the same style of cape that Trixie had and that is why I asked…”

Coltyn tried to get a word in but was unable to as Pinkie continued to babble. Figuring she would continue till her tongue fell out he pulled a small vial from a shelf and placed it under Pinkie’s nose.

“…we had to clean so much up and hey what is that? Is that a potion of some kind ‘cause I noticed the sign and I figured you had potions…”

Coltyn opened the vial as smoke covered Pinkie’s face, knocking her out. Coltyn sighed as he placed her on his back. Coltyn’s horn lit as he teleported them just outside Twilight’s library. He knocked and was answered by Twilight.

“Hello Coltyn… why is Pinkie on your back or more importantly not moving?”

“She is under a freeze potion which should wear off in a few minutes.”

“She started babbling at you as soon as you got to town this morning,” Twilight sighed

“Yes, how did you know?”

“She has done this to a few others and driven them to move someplace else. She seems very excitable, even more than before.”

“I see,” Coltyn said examining Pinkie. “I’m betting her time under Discord’s influence has something to do with that. I know of a ritual which could help.”

“I’m not sure; I don’t think it will help. I feel fine and nothing feels out of the ordinary.”

“If you insist, I ask that you think on it. Here I will even leave this with you,” Coltyn said, pulling out a freshly written scroll with the realignment ritual.

“I need to continue my work so I will leave Pinkie in your care if you don’t mind,” Coltyn stated, walking up to the study room he was using yesterday.

***

Coltyn heard Twilight explain to Pinkie that she needed to stop scaring ponies with her babbling. Coltyn continued to research through the day and into the night. Coltyn headed down to the main lobby where Twilight was sitting.

“Hello Twilight Sparkle; I will not be here tomorrow. I have to go get some special plants for a ritual.”

“Herbs? Maybe you should talk to Zecora. She lives out in the Everfree forest and might have what you need,” Twilight said as Coltyn was heading out the door.

“Wait somepony lives in Everfree? When have ponies started living in Everfree?” Coltyn inquired.

“She isn’t a pony, she’s a zebra,” Twilight explained.

“Ah, that makes more sense. Well this may make my life a little easier and I could probably learn even more from her,” Coltyn said.

“She is pretty smart,” Twilight said, thinking back on the times Zecora helped her.

“I think I will pay her a visit tomorrow,” Coltyn said, hopeful.

“Ok well have a good night,” Twilight called as Coltyn headed out the door.

“You too, Twilight Sparkle.”

Coltyn closed the door and headed back to his cart and started to get things in order. Coltyn had been feeling like he was at a dead end in his research for nothing seemed to lead to the answer he sought. The ritual he was designing had become so complex that he was starting to fear that he would fail, again. Coltyn was overcome with worry and he knew it and the only way he would sleep was with a sleeping potion. He pulled a bottle off the top shelf and drank down the contents as he lay on the floor, the mixture slowly knocked him out.

***

The next day Coltyn readied his supplies and putting on his cloak and saddlebag headed out. As he trotted out to the edge of the forest he noticed a home just on the outskirts. A yellow mare with long flowing pink mane and tail was singing with some birds just outside her tree home. Coltyn slowed to a walk as he listened to the soothing sounds but continued out to the forest as the pony didn’t seem to notice him.

Coltyn’s hooves walked the familiar ground of his past as the memories of he and his friends came back. Coltyn smiled as his happy memories filled him but soon faded as he passed the forest center. Then the dark memories surfaced of captivity, torture, and the loss of his friends and leader, Nightmare Moon. Then the vision of Celestia’s foal quivering in pain and the soul crushing sounds of her whimpering filled his ears.

Coltyn pulled himself together as the home of Zecora came into view. Coltyn knocked softly on the door and was greeted by a zebra with a swirl pattern on her flank and golden rings around her hoof and neck.

“Greetings to you this day, how can I help you if I may?” Zecora asked in her usual rhyme.

“Well Miss Zecora, I was hoping to ask for help with a ritual and the acquisition of some magic herbs,” Coltyn explained.

“Of rituals and herbs I have knowledge, but what do you hope to accomplish?”

Coltyn sighed. “I need to be ready to help Twilight Sparkle recover from her time discorded; I fear something is wrong and I want to be ready for anything.”

Zecora went digging though her wares.

“I think I have something that was handed down, and with it the cure may be found,” Zecora explained as she pulled out an old scroll.

“I am also curious as to what scrolls you have on growing magic,” Coltyn asked.

“I have many scrolls on that subject, may I ask what is the focus of your project.”

“I need to find a way to regrow an alicorn horn that was broken off at birth,” Coltyn explained in a deathly serious tone.

Zecora looked at Coltyn as if this was a joke but when the serious expression didn’t leave his face she nodded, pulling various scrolls out from different corners of her hut. Coltyn looked at the scrolls and found a few that would be useful but there was still and important piece to the puzzle missing. Coltyn and Zecora talked and discussed throughout the day about how to make a special brews and going over all the scrolls and there uses. The day had almost come to an end when Coltyn bid farewell to Zecora and headed back to Ponyville.

***

Coltyn was exiting the forest as the moon shone upon the land. Coming to the edge he was greeted by familiar flash of light as he saw the hilly land alight as bright as the sun. Horrible thoughts crossed his mind as he thoughtlessly teleported himself inside Twilight’s library. Coltyn appeared in the study he had used and was most familiar with and ran down to the main lobby.

“Twilight, are you alright? I saw sun magic as I…,” Coltyn stopped on the bottom stair as he looked into the eye of Celestia.
Celestia stood there in shock at seeing a pony she long thought dead. The air grew thick with tension as the two stared at each other, waiting. Coltyn moved to head back upstairs but Celestia charged, knocking him into the wall. Spike looked around the corner of a bookcase to see what the commotion was but quickly hid seeing Celestia pining down Coltyn with her magic.

“How are you still alive?” Celestia growled.

“Nice to see you too,” Coltyn gasped.

“Answer me!” Celestia demanded, placing her hoof on Coltyn’s throat.

“I used the Darksteel Ritual before the war between Sun and Moon,” Coltyn stated.

“What are you doing here trying to corrupt my student, I bet you’re the one who drove her to enchant her doll and cause the whole town to fall into chaos.”

“No but you’re on the right path. I feared there would be some kind of residual effect from being exposed to Discord’s chaos energy.”

“So why show yourself now?” Celestia demanded.

“I want to help them. They are still suffering from the effects of chaos,” Coltyn pleaded.

Celestia glared at Coltyn. “Give me one reason not to send you through the Gates of Tatarus,” Celestia commanded.

“If they don’t get help their minds will fracture and they will all end up in a mental ward babbling nonsense.”

Celestia loosened her pin. “Why are you trying to help them?”

“I’m trying to make up for over a thousand years of mistakes and bad decisions. I took an oath under Nightmare Moon to defend Equestria from evil. After the war, I was plotting revenge but certain events caused me to have a change of heart,” Coltyn said, looking away from Celestia.

“I see,” Celestia said letting go of Coltyn. “I want to discuss this further but I must attend to my student. Come to Canterlot tomorrow unarmed.”

Coltyn nodded as he teleported back to his cart; a sense of dread fell over him. Going to Canterlot with no backup is suicide; Coltyn thought about it and decided to go to prove he was trustworthy.

***

Coltyn performed his morning ritual then began to draw a circle on the ground. Coltyn was putting the final runes in place when Twilight trotted up to him.

“Good morning, Twilight Sparkle,” Coltyn greeted with a smile.

“Good morning to you as well,” Twilight replied, looking at the odd drawing on the ground. “What is this for?”

“This is an enhancing circle which aids in teleportation to places that are normally out of range for one teleport.”

“I think I read about them in one of my books. I’d like to see how it works,” Twilight said, studying the circle carefully.

“I would like to show you but I have to meet Celestia today,” Coltyn sighed.

“I know. Spike told me a great deal of interesting things that transpired last night before I got home.”

“Did he now? What did your little dragon friend have to say?” Coltyn inquired.

“Well the most interesting part is the fact that you and Princess Celestia have known each other for over a thousand years and that you used to work for Nightmare Moon.”

“He is correct. I am that old but not only did I work for Nightmare Moon, I was a general.”

“I would like to see some evidence before I can believe such a tale.”

Coltyn sighed inviting Twilight into his cart. Twilight felt like she walked into Zecora’s hut as she looked at shelves lined with various bottles filled with colorful liquids and some ingredients she recognized and others she had only seen in books. Coltyn’s cutie mark was emblazoned on a cauldron in the back sitting on a small potbelly stove. What drew her attention was a shelf piled with books, some she had never seen before. Twilight looked at the titles and noticed a lot of medical books interspersed with ancient books on dark magic, blood magic, and circle rituals. Coltyn had disappeared into a set of doors in the wall and pulled out a chest with a black circle on the lid with a crescent moon in the center. Opening the trunk, Coltyn removed a midnight blue banner which had the four phases of the moon on the edges, with dark alicorn mare with her wings spread, with the phrase ‘The Night Forever’ arched over the alicorn. Coltyn displayed a set of dark blue barding emblazed with a crescent moon emblem similar to the one on the chest. Dark armored horseshoes with sharpened sides and the helm with a cropped purple mane just like his completed the ensemble. Coltyn held the armor up next to him and Twilight was speechless at the sight of armor which resembled the armor her brother was given by Celestia which showed his high rank.

“This is impossible, you must have made a copy,” Twilight said in disbelief.

“No this is true armor made by one of my best friends; Golden Blade,” Coltyn said, showing her the makers mark of the inlaid gold in the shape of a knife between the letters G and B.

Twilight was speechless upon seeing the maker’s mark which was the same one she read about. Coltyn smiled as he put his memories back in the trunk and slid it back into his closet.

“Would you like to come with me to meet Celestia?” Coltyn asked with a halfhearted smile.

“I would like that but I have one question; why don’t you call her Princess?”

“I have never thought about, but yes I should start calling her princess. It has been so long since I called anypony princess; it just slips my mind. Well enough reminiscing, we really should be going.”

“I guess I can understand that.”

“Thank you,” Coltyn said, turning to walk out the door.

Coltyn gestured to Twilight to stand next to him as his horn lit with a dark aura. The circle glowed as they were enveloped in darkness and flashed away.

***

Coltyn and Twilight appeared just outside the walls of the castle. Coltyn looked upon the walls he had once tried to take down and sighed deeply.

“You ok?” Twilight asked, turning her head.

“Yeah let’s get going,” Coltyn said, opening the small door by the gate.

The two stepped inside and were greeted by the Royal Guard who upon seeing Coltyn brandished their spears. Twilight stood there dumbfounded as to why they would be so aggressive and wanted to know why. The guards took one step aside as a white unicorn stallion donned in purple armor and helm walked up with a stern look on his face until his saw Twilight.

“Shining Armor what is with the harsh reception?” Twilight demanded.

“Twilight? What are you doing here?” Shining Armor asked, surprised to see his sister.

“Coltyn asked me to come, now what is with the guards?”

“Princess Celestia told me that this stallion was dangerous and to take all necessary precautions. So, why did you agree to come here with him?” Shining Armor replied.

“Because I am curious and this just adds to it. Coltyn Pendragon is not a bad pony; he…,” Twilight said.

“Please don’t take it out on the captain he is just doing his job,” Coltyn interrupted. “Please, we are here for an audience with Celest… Princess Celestia,” Coltyn said, remembering his manors.

“How did you know I was a captain?” Shining Armor queried.

Coltyn smirked. “Anypony with special hoof-crafted armor like yours has to be high ranking.”

“Very well, let’s get going,” Shining Armor said; his look ordered the guards into position as he took Twilight and Coltyn to the princess.

The walk to the meeting chamber was eerily silent as nopony said a word or looked any direction but forward. Twilight was showing considerable unease as she kept looking around with only the sound of clanking armor filling the halls. They reached the door and Shining Armor opened the door with his magic and guided everyone in. Celestia was sitting on a pillow atop a small flight of stairs as Shining Armor walked up to her and stood on her right side. The rest of the guards formed a line on the back wall as Coltyn entered the room. Celestia’s eyes narrowed but turned to surprise when Twilight Sparkle entered the room and stood next to Coltyn. The doors closed and everypony lowered their head to Princess Celestia including Coltyn.

“So you will show me respect?” Celestia questioned.

“Yes, I respect you as a pony and a leader and since you have taken back Princess Luna and are ruling together I am willing to bow to you Princess Celestia,” Coltyn answered.

“I see and you even use my title,” Celestia said, waving a hoof to dismiss the extra guards.

“Princess, what is the reason for this meeting?” Twilight asked.

“It seems that he wants to help you and your friends but given his past I have no intention of trusting him,” Celestia stated.

“I’m sure if the ponies knew who you were a thousand years ago they would say the same thing,” Coltyn retorted.

“What are you talking about Coltyn? All the books say how great of a ruler the Princess has been after defeating Nightmare Moon the first time,” Twilight questioned.

“History is written by the victors and not everything is true,” Coltyn replied.

“At least I have changed to reflect the way it was written,” Celestia sneered.

“And I couldn’t have changed over the years,” Coltyn retorted.

“I guess I should give you a chance, one chance. After all, the last I knew of you was a thousand years ago. We shall see if you have changed or not. So what are you planning to do to help Twilight and the others?”

“There is a ritual from the zebra’s that allows one to harmonize their disordered mind. I believe it will help them recover from Discord’s chaos magic.”

“So the question is how can I trust you?”

“I will only set up the ritual and nothing more. I would also ask that you bring the Elements of Harmony they will be needed.”

Celestia pondered the offer made by Coltyn. “Very well but I will be present to make sure that my little ponies stay safe and that nothing happens to the Elements.”

“That’s fine. Thank you very much for your time Princess Celestia,” Coltyn said, bowing his head.

Coltyn moved to the exit followed by Twilight and Shining Armor.

“That went better than expected,” Coltyn said, as the door closed behind them.

“So you really did live a thousand years ago?” Twilight asked, shyly.

“Yes, Celestia and I have never been on the best of terms but I hope to start changing that,” Coltyn nodded.

“So can you help or were you lying?” Shining Armor queried.

“I can help them but more importantly I want to help them,” Coltyn said, proudly as they reached the outer wall.

Twilight bid her brother good-bye. Coltyn looked off to Ponyville and turned to Twilight.

“Would you like to get us back?” Coltyn asked.

“I can’t teleport that far,” Twilight reposted.

“Sure you can, remember the circle I was drawing just picture it in your mind,” Coltyn explained as Twilight closed her eyes to focus. “Envision your magic filling the lines with power, focus on your destination, see yourself standing there, and it will be done.”

With his final word Twilight’s horn flashed lavender as they were transported to the front door of her library. Twilight opened her eyes as glee filled her.

“I can’t believe I did it. I have never been able to teleport more than a mile,” Twilight exclaimed, bouncing excitedly.

“I had faith you could. I don’t think the Element of Magic would have chosen you if you didn’t have great potential,” Coltyn congratulated. “Have a good evening Twilight.”

“You too Coltyn,” Twilight said, walking into her library.

Chapter 2: Crossroads

Coltyn had made progress in gathering all the ingredients for the ritual to banish the lingering chaos affecting the Elements of Harmony. Coltyn was glad that Zecora had the plants he was missing now the only thing he needed was dragon’s blood. Coltyn gathered a bag of medical supplies and placed them into his saddlebag as he headed out.

***

Coltyn was greeted by Twilight as he arrived at the library.

“Hello Coltyn. Are you here to study some more?” Twilight asked, inviting him in.

“No, I actually need to speak with your assistant, Spike. Is he in?”

“Yes, he’s here. Why do you want to talk to him, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I need to ask for some of his blood for the ritual,” Coltyn explained, sighing deeply.

“What?! Why would a ritual call for dragon’s blood?” Twilight gasped in disbelief.

“Dragons are very powerful creatures and their life energy is the most concentrated in their blood. Even a drop can fuel some of the most powerful magic.”

“How does that work. I haven’t seen or read any book involving augmenting spells like that.”

“Well a good mage can perform a lot of magic, but a great mage can augment spells to fit his or her needs. Something I have been working on for the past thousand years.”

“I see. That sounds interesting… I would like to read about how that works.”

“Well there have not really been books written about magic augmentation but rather cross referencing different sources that have the same effect and a bit of trial and error. But I can show you some of my notes on ones I have perfected, if Princess Celestia permits it.”

“I’ll send her a letter later; you’re here to talk with Spike. He’s upstairs working on a costume,” Twilight informed, pointing upstairs.

“Thank you, Twilight Sparkle,” Coltyn nodded, walking upstairs.

Coltyn wondered why the little dragon would be making a costume as he opened the door to the study. He saw Spike working on a purple outfit with green spikes.

“So you are making a costume of yourself,” Coltyn chuckled, walking in on Spike.

“Coltyn! What are you doing here? This was supposed to be a surprise,” Spike said, trying to hide the costume.

“I won’t tell anypony what I saw. Don’t worry. Actually, the reason I came today is to test a theory I have been working on.”

“Oh, really?” Spike responded, questioning him. “What theory is that?”

“I want to know if the way something is acquired changes the power of spells it is used with. In essence, I wish to determine whether something given with love is stronger than something taken by force.”

“So what do you want from me?” Spike queried.

“I need a bit of your blood to know the difference,” Coltyn explained.

“Well I have thick scales, how are you going to get it?” Spike queried.

“With this,” Coltyn said as he pulled out a syringe with a long narrow needle.

Spike stumbled back a few steps and exclaimed. “That’s huge! I don’t want to get stuck with that thing!”

“Please Spike, I need to take this sample. Do it for Twilight.”

“Well ok. Will it hurt?” Spike asked as he held out his arm.

“I don’t know. I have only taken blood from much older dragons and they don’t seem to notice,” Coltyn explained, cleaning the scales round the inside of Spike’s elbow.

“Let me know when you’re going to do it.”

“Ok. I just need to see the veins,” Coltyn said, lighting his horn as his eyes turned red. “There now let’s see… What’s that?” Coltyn shouted, pointing behind Spike.

Spike quickly turned his head to see what Coltyn pointed at but saw nothing but bookshelves. Coltyn, having turned Spike’s attention away, quickly drew the small sample and was done before Spike turned back to face him.

“There’s nothing… hey you tricked me,” Spike huffed, noticing the syringe a quarter full of a thick red liquid.

“That may be true but you didn’t even notice that I had taken it, and even put a bandage on,” Coltyn smiled, pointing to the cloth tied around Spike’s elbow.

“Holy guacamole,” Spike exclaimed, looking at the neatly wrapped bandage. “How did you do that so fast?”

“Well usually I have to find an adult dragon and, well, let’s say… speed counts,” Coltyn chuckled, emptying the syringe into a vial and sealing it.

“So how can you tell how strong my blood is?”

“There is a spell that uses dragon’s blood as a catalyst and the effect varies depending on age and strength of the dragon.”

“Do you mind if I tag along. I want to know how strong I am,” Spike boasted, flexing his arms.

“I don’t see why not,” Coltyn said, walking out of the study.

They headed downstairs. Twilight was busy browsing some books on teleportation.

“Hey, Twilight! Coltyn and I are going to see how powerful I am. Wanna come?” Spike exclaimed.

“I’d love to but I’m in the middle of something,” Twilight said, pointing at the collection of books sitting out.

“That’s fine. Come on, Spike, let’s leave her to study,” Coltyn said, opening the front door as he and Spike left.

***

Coltyn took Spike out to the open field outside of Ponyville.

“So how do you tell how powerful a dragon’s blood is?” Spike asked.

“The best indicator is their breath weapon and long ago we discovered how to mimic it,” Coltyn explained.

“So you’re gonna breathe fire? I don’t think you will get a long flame,” Spike sighed.

“You’re young and your breath weapon is still developing.”

Coltyn cleared a long path and set up a magic range 150 feet long with a barrier surrounding them so nopony could enter and get hurt.

“Now you first,” Coltyn said, motioning to the base line.

Spike took a deep breath and exhaled a line of green flame.

“Three feet, you seem to be right on track given your size and age,” Coltyn explained.

“Oh yeah, let’s see you do better,” Spike challenged.

Coltyn smiled as he took out the small vial and opened it. Using his magic drew a circle on his neck; Coltyn’s eyes turned green as he inhaled deeply. The circle flashed green as a line of green flames raced down the range hitting the back wall he set up. Coltyn pulled back on the spell so he wouldn’t break the barrier he set up which caused him to start coughing smoke. Spike stood there, mouth agape as he looked upon the scorched earth.

“How did that happen?” Spike asked in shock.

“Your true potential is still locked away because of your size but don’t worry,” Coltyn coughed, as smoke drifted from his nose and mouth. “You have the potential to be a mighty dragon someday.”

Spike swelled with pride knowing he would be strong someday. Coltyn was glad to see Spike’s enthusiasm but even more happy that he didn’t have to go and find a dragon on such short notice.

“So what was that costume you were making earlier?” Coltyn asked.

“Oh, it’s for Nightmare Night… that’s at the end of next month. So what will you dress up as?” Spike wondered.

“I won’t be. I don’t personally like what it stands for.”

“Awww, that’s too bad. Anyway I should be getting back to the library.”

“Very well. Oh, tell Twilight go gather the others in a week at her home and if you could, please send this to Princess Celestia,” Coltyn said, handing Spike a scroll.

“What does it say?”

“It tells her what I am doing and when, a basic list.”

Spike shrugged, blowing a flame on the parchment and then watching for a moment as the smoke ascended to Canterlot. They headed back to town and Coltyn stopped by his cart. Once there, Coltyn invited Spike in and asked for the blood he would need for the ritual. Spike offered his arm again and freely gave his life essence. Coltyn gave Spike a small ice cream to help him cope with the loss of blood.

“So has Twilight decided on a costume for Nightmare Night?” Coltyn wondered, cleaning up and putting away the vials.

“No. She keeps saying she wants to go as some famous magician from long ago but can’t find any description of his clothes,” Spike said, walking for the door.

“I see,” Coltyn said, opening the door to his cart. “Here give this to her. I think it’ll help.”

Coltyn gave Spike a book with a unicorn profiled on the cover and no other writing.

“What is this book about?” Spike asked, turning the book looking for a title.

“It’s a history book and I think the pony she is looking for is described in there,” Coltyn said, smiling.

“If you say so,” Spike replied dubiously. “I guess I’ll see you later.” Spike waved goodbye and closed the door.

***

The week quickly passed and Coltyn finished gathering all of the supplies he would need and set off towards the library. He knocked on the door as the sun just cleared the horizon and was greeted by Spike who welcomed him into the library. Coltyn saw the six Elements of Harmony and Princess Celestia holding an ornate jeweled case under her wing.

“Greetings, Princess Celestia,” Coltyn smiled, bowing.

“Hello, Coltyn. Are you ready?” Celestia asked.

“I’m ready. A better question is are they ready?” Coltyn asked, looking at the six.

They all nodded, even though fear and worry were obvious in their body language.

“Very well,” Coltyn said, putting down his saddlebag.

Coltyn cleared the lobby of the library and, pulling all the curtains, he placed several candles around the center of the library. First he took a small censer on a chain and placed some lavender and sage inside and lit it. He walked around the room swinging the censer filling the room with the smell of burnt lavender and sage. He pulled out a piece of white chalk and a piece of parchment. Coltyn took the chalk in his mouth and began drawing a large circle with six smaller circles inside. He moved out of the circle and took the chalk with his magic and started the intricate task of creating the runes and connectors for the magic to flow through. Finally, he put the representation of each of their cutie marks in each one of the circles and an urn in the center. Coltyn motioned for the others to take a seat in the circle. Each went to the circle with their mark in it and sat down.

“Princess, the Elements of Harmony, please,” Coltyn requested.

Princess Celestia presented the case and placed the necklaces on the necks of their appropriate pony, the crown on Twilight’s head. Coltyn lifted the vial of dragon’s blood out from his bag and inscribed runes on each of their heads for protection and to help purify their minds. Coltyn then placed angelica around the outside edge of the circle and lit it. The smoke rose, forming a translucent dome over the six ponies. They all began to squirm uncomfortably as they each swallowed lilac blossoms and the petals from a pink rose. Every minute felt like hours as the six each seemed to be arguing with some unseen pony. Black viscous liquid began to fall from the chests of the six ponies. Hitting the floor, the liquid puffed into smoke and collected over the urn. Celestia and Coltyn were both unnerved to see the smoke in the middle of the circle form into Discord – the monster bared its fangs roaring as he manifested.

“NO!!! Not again!!!” Discord bellowed, seeing the predicament he was in. “You may have beaten me but I’ll be back, you can’t destroy chaos. You can count on that,” Discord laughed.

The Elements of Harmony glowed brightly as bright colors flashed from the jewelry chaining down the ghostly form. A flash of white closed the circle, binding the ghostly form as smoke rose from the urn in the shape of huge jaws that clamped down. Discord struggled, but the combination of the Elements of Harmony and the binding circle were too strong; he was sucked into the urn. The six ponies collapsed and Celestia looked at Coltyn with narrowed eyes wanting an answer.

“They are resting. This has taken a great deal of strength from them. They should come to within a day or two,” Coltyn explained, carefully examining the six’s vital signs.

“I am impressed. I am still not sure how much I can trust you but this has proven that you deserve a second chance,” Celestia conceded. “Spike, please give my regard to Twilight for I must return to Canterlot. Coltyn I want you to stay here and wait for them to wake and let me know immediately if anything is wrong.”

Coltyn and Spike bowed. “Of course, Princess Celestia.”

Celestia walked out the door, and with a flash of brilliant light, she was gone. Coltyn heaved a deep sigh as he turned to Spike.

“We should get something for them to eat when they wake up. They will most likely be hungry,” Coltyn said.

“So this ritual made it so that they’ll no longer act crazy?” Spike asked.

“No, this ritual just removed the remaining influence Discord left in them. Only they can change their personal quirks.”

“That’s too bad. It would be nice if Twilight was less of a bookworm.”

“I’m sure,” Coltyn chuckled, walking into Twilight’s kitchen.

Spike and Coltyn made some floral sandwiches with apples, hay fries, and water. They took turns sitting with the six as they waited for them to wake up.

***

Twilight was the first to stir from her rest the next day. Spike ran up and hugged her, relieved to see her up.

“I was so worried,” Spike exclaimed, with tears in his eye.

“Thank you, Spike,” Twilight said softly, hugging Spike.

“Ah, you have awakened,” Coltyn said, wheeling a dining cart into the lobby. “How are you feeling?”

“Hungry, a bit of a headache. But it seems that my nightmares have left,” Twilight said, rubbing her stomach and head.

“Good. That means it worked. Discord’s final grip on you has been broken,” Coltyn sighed in relief. “I will take my leave before the others wake,” Coltyn said, gathering his things as the others began to stir.

“Thank you. I hope you can join us for Nightmare Night,” Twilight called to him just before he crossed the threshold.

“We’ll see,” Coltyn smiled and nodded, closing the door.

Coltyn was never thrilled with Nightmare Night. He always found the legend of Nightmare Moon offensive. Modern ponies had come to portray her as a monster and a foal eater, which was just obscene. In Coltyn’s mind, Nightmare Moon was a glorious and majestic mare who fought for the common pony and deserved to be honored and respected. He would take Twilight up on her invitation, but would first visit the old ruins deep in Everfree as he had done every year for the past thousand years.

***

Coltyn woke up the day of Nightmare Night to the sound of a hoof knocking. He opened the door to see Applejack standing there, smiling hopefully.

“Good morning, Applejack. How may I help you?” Coltyn asked.

“Hiya, Coltyn! I noticed you weren’t very busy, and ya didn’t seem to be in the spirit of the festival comin’ up, so… well I was hopin’ ya might find it in ya to help us out at the farm for a bit today. We’re behind with the applebuckin’, on account of the Mayor askin’ me to organize the games for tonight, and I’d be real grateful if ya could lend a hoof for a few hours.”

“I’m not busy so I think I could help out.”

“Thank ya kindly, Coltyn. Big Macintosh is out in the orchard already.”

Coltyn nodded as he and Applejack headed for Sweet Apple Acres. Climbing the hill, Coltyn saw a large red stallion pulling a huge cart full of empty buckets out to the field. Coltyn and Applejack made their way down to Big Mac.

“Heya, big brother! I got us an extra set of hooves to help,” Applejack called.

“Hello, Big Macintosh,” Coltyn called as they approached.

Big Mac nodded and continued his work. Applejack explained the basics of applebucking and that they would need to collect as many apples as they could from the east field before supper time. Coltyn nodded and the three of them started at the end of the first row. Coltyn had never done this kind of work before, and it quickly became obvious as he only managed to make a few apples shake loose with each kick. Coltyn, realizing he was doing something wrong, studied Big Mac and Applejack. With a little study and some trial and error, Coltyn was able to clear a tree in four to five kicks instead of over a dozen.

After a while, Applebloom came out to the orchard with a bucket of water and Coltyn and Applejack stopped to take a short break and get a drink. Big Mac stopped only long enough to take a drink of water then continued working.

“You know, I never thought I would find two ponies that are so completely different who have the same work ethic,” Coltyn observed contemplatively, taking a drink of the lightly salted water.

“What do ya mean? What ponies?” Applejack asked.

“Your brother and Twilight Sparkle, they both work very hard and are dedicated to the tasks and goals they set out to accomplish, to the point of total exclusion of anything else.”

Big Mac overheard their conversation but didn’t outwardly react. He did find Coltyn’s comparison interesting, but had more important things to think about at the moment. The three ponies worked steadily through the day, and were able to harvest the field completely, only moments before Granny Smith rang a triangle for dinner.

After dining with the Apples, Coltyn headed back to his cart. He had some personal business to attend before the evening’s festivities.

***

Coltyn headed out after a quick bath and took a small bunch of midnight blue roses with him in his saddle bag. Coltyn trotted down the path and made his way through the forest. The moon was rising as he stood in front of the ruins of the old fort he once called home. He stood and reminisced on all that had happened over the years. This year however he left earlier than usual, something inside told him to go back to Ponyville. Coltyn placed the roses on the step that led to the main hall and as he made his way back to Ponyville he noticed a strange disturbance in the sky with unexplained lightning. Passing his cart on the way back, he decided to at least try to fit in. Coltyn pulled out the trunk with his barding and stood in front of a mirror to don it. Putting on his helm he looked in the mirror and smiled as the memories of battles won came to his mind. With a sense of wistful nostalgia, he left out to find Twilight. Searching the town, he first noticed Applejack in her scarecrow costume and approached her.

“Hello Applejack, have you seen Twilight anywhere?” Coltyn asked plainly.

“Hey there Coltyn, nice costume,” Applejack replied. “I think I saw her over by the grove on the southern edge of the forest.”

“Thanks,” Coltyn said, heading off to the grove.

Coltyn made his way through town and was approaching the grove when he heard the crack of thunder and seconds later saw Rainbow Dash flying like mad. Coltyn curiously trotted over to where he heard the thunder. Once there, he saw Twilight and Spike, but froze in shock when he noticed Luna. His Princess was laying on a dark thunder cell, her legs folded neatly under her. Luna’s mane wafted gracefully down her neck and her tail lay relaxed over the back of the cloud. Coltyn was struck by seeing the beautiful mare he hadn’t seen in over a thousand years. His heart was racing; he was overjoyed to see his lovely Princess of the Night.

“Greetings, Princess Luna of the Night. My name is Coltyn Pendragon,” Coltyn introduced himself, bowing to the Princess.

“Greetings Coltyn Pendragon, I must say that thy greeting was not expected given the reception I have had from the citizens of Ponyville,” Luna replied, mildly confused.

“Do you not know who I am?” Coltyn asked, lifting his helm to show his whole face.

“How can I know thou when we have just met?” Luna asked.

Luna’s question felt like a knife cutting his heart, and his knees buckled slightly under the shock, though he tried not to allow them to give way. Twilight and Spike looked at each other with worried expressions. Coltyn’s eyes glazed as the truth of what happened when the Elements of Harmony purified Luna… wiped her memory of darkness. Luna didn’t know him, didn’t know that they had been allies long ago. She was no longer the mare he knew and loved, Coltyn was overcome with sorrow and grief but the stray tear that rolled down his cheek was the only outward sign he gave.

“Excuse me, Princess,” Coltyn choked, turning quickly and galloping back to his cart.

Luna was confused, turning to Twilight, “What happened? Did I say something wrong?”

“I don’t know what to tell you. I think it best to you talk with Princess Celestia about him,” Twilight said cautiously.

“I see, I will consult with my sister,” Luna said, standing up from her cloud. “His reaction and way of addressing me was rather interesting, almost like he knew me.”

Luna departed and left Twilight and Spike waving good-bye in the forest. Twilight sighed as she looked off in the direction Coltyn went.

“Do you think he’s ok?” Spike asked.

“I doubt it. He found out that the mare he cared so much for doesn’t even know him anymore,” Twilight said, feeling sorry for Coltyn. “He will need some time alone. Come on Spike, let’s go home.”

Spike nodded and jumped on Twilight’s back and they made their way back home.

***

Coltyn galloped as fast as his hooves would carry him back to his cart. He was able to close the door before his emotions let flow a river of tears. The mare he loved was no more and had been reborn without her memories. Coltyn caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and his sorrow began turning to rage.

“Curse the Elements of Harmony! They took away the one pony I knew I could be with for eternity!” Coltyn screamed, tears flowing like rivers.

Lifting his helm with magic he threw it at the mirror shattering it into hundreds of shards.

“I just wanted her to remember me but no matter what I do it never works!” Coltyn bellowed.

He ripped the barding from his back, damaging some of the straps, and slammed it into his work table, destroying the work that was on it and shattering more glass tubes and vials.

“I am tired of failure,” Coltyn said, calming down a bit. “I guess this is my punishment for cheating death.”

Coltyn’s mind was lost and he needed to work out some frustration. He turned and charged through the door, bursting it off the hinges, and galloped into the Everfree Forest.

***

The next morning Twilight woke up later than usual and headed down to the study that Coltyn used. Seeing it dark and empty she went to the kitchen where Spike was making breakfast.

“Morning, Twilight,” Spike said, flipping a grass and oat flour pancake.

“Morning, Spike. Has Coltyn been in yet today?” Twilight asked.

“Nope. Nopony has been in the library today,” Spike replied, turning to Twilight. “Do you think he’s ok? I mean the way he took off last night, seems odd to me.”

“No, I don’t think he’s ok. I’ll go look for him after breakfast,” Twilight said with resolve. “Would you mind taking care of the library while I go and find him?”

“Well ok, just be careful.”

“I will, Spike,” Twilight said, taking the breakfast he prepared and setting off.

Twilight walked through town but as she got to Coltyn’s cart she stopped, looking at the cart door and odd scent coming from inside. She slowly poked her head through the door and was stunned to see the destroyed work desk and the shattered glass that covered the floor with Coltyn’s armor strewn about. She turned to see his hoof prints leading out to Everfree. Driven to find out what happened, Twilight set out into Everfree. Twilight followed his prints but didn’t like the fact that he galloped at full speed through the forest.

Twilight pushed aside some brush and stopped at the edge of a clearing. A manticore lay motionless with its head in a small puddle of blood; the sight turned Twilight’s stomach but the slight movement of its head and the snapping sound put her back on alert. Slowly walking around the beast she saw Coltyn, his mane was a mess and his coat was matted red with blood with claw marks covering his body. His eyes showed that he was lost deep in thought. He didn’t react to Twilight’s approach as he examined a tooth from the manticore. A branch snapped under her hooves, the sound bringing Coltyn’s head up suddenly, the haze of grief still tinting his eyes slightly red.

“Oh. It’s you,” Coltyn said as Twilight stepped back, startled.

“What happened here?” Twilight queried, pointing her hoof at the manticore.

“Oh, I ran into him last night and decided to work off a bit of my frustration, not to mention that manticore poison is very useful but only when mixed with adrenaline,” Coltyn explained.

“So is it dead?” Twilight wondered, looking over the manticore.

“No, sleeping. I was healing the damage I had done to the poor creature. I didn’t want to hurt it this much,” Coltyn continued, replacing the broken tooth.

“Hurt it?!” Twilight exclaimed. “I’m worried about you and all you’re worrying about is healing your attacker? That makes no sense.”
Coltyn sighed as he stood up to face Twilight. “I have enough potions to heal myself completely back at my cart. I can’t drag a manticore back to town though, so his wellbeing is my top priority.”

“Well, I guess I can understand but how can you heal a creature who did you harm?”

“I have already done enough harm in this world. There is no sense in killing a creature when you can leave it alive and I’m trying to make up for some of my past mistakes, lending a hoof when I can.”

“So is that why you helped us? Some sort of self-satisfaction?” Twilight questioned.

“No. I did what I swore to do a long time ago, defend Equestria.”

“That isn’t what I want to know. I want the whole story no more half-truths or dodging.”

“Very well,” Coltyn sighed. “Let’s go back and once we get to my cart I will tell you anything you want to know.”

“Promise? No more secrets?” Twilight inquired.

“No more secrets but I must ask that everything we talk about stays between us,” Coltyn informed her.

“Of course.”

“Come on let’s get going before he wakes up,” Coltyn advised, gathering a few glass vials before heading for home.

Chapter 3: Plague Potion

Coltyn and Twilight entered his cart. Coltyn put the materials he gathered down and looked at the mess he left.

“Well I should clean up first,” Coltyn sighed.

“I’ll lend a hoof,” Twilight said with a smile.

Coltyn shook his head, “Thank you Twilight but I’ll take care of this.”

Twilight looked at him sternly, “I insist and will not take no for an answer.”

“I guess I can’t change your mind. There’s a broom in the corner. I’ll get the clutter picked up while you sweep up the broken glass.”

“Ok, let’s get started,” Twilight smiled.

Twilight began picking up the clutter on the floor while Coltyn headed to the back of the cart. Coltyn levitated a small bottle down and drank the contents. Coltyn concentrated, and a black aura radiated around all his wounds closing them without leaving scars and regrowing his fur. Twilight was impressed at the power of his potions but continued to clean up.

They worked for about an hour when Twilight heard the thud of a book hitting the floor. Twilight looked over to see Coltyn standing with his head hung to the floor, neighing softly. Twilight found a blanket and laid it on his back and looked at the book he had dropped. The book was called Perplexing Pony Plagues and fell open to an entry on Horn Rot, a disease that eats the magic core of a unicorn’s horn causing their magic to become weaker and in some cases lose it all together. Twilight was surprised to see all the notes written in the sidebar which referred to the cure and regrowing the magic core. Twilight gleaned that Coltyn had been working on a way to regrow a unicorn’s horn.

“What happened to make him dig so deep into this?” Twilight whispered.

“Must… fix… horn… great… sin… ,” Coltyn mumbled in his sleep.

Twilight looked at him and wondered what his disjointed rambling meant.

‘He must be trying to fix a unicorn’s horn but how is that a sin?’ Twilight pondered.

Twilight shrugged her shoulders and finished picking up the clutter on the floor. She wrote a note and left it on the table. She took her leave and left Coltyn to sleep.

***

Coltyn woke up to the horrible sound of pounding echoing through his ears. His bloodshot eyes, sore and heavy with exhaustion, made it hard to see as he peered around the still broken door.

“What is that pounding?” Coltyn bellowed, leaving his cart to find the source.

“Oh… sorry Coltyn. I was just hanging fliers for the Sister Hooves Social at the end of the week,” Applebloom said, shying away from Coltyn.

“Sorry. I shouldn’t have yelled at you. I’ve had a bad couple of nights and very little sleep.”

“It’s ok. I’ve finished up around here,” Applebloom explained. “Hey, what is it you do in there?”

“Oh, I study and mix potions,” Coltyn replied groggily.

“Do you think you could whip up a potion to get me my cutie mark?” Applebloom asked with wide puppy dog eyes.

“No, but I have some potions that allow the copying of other ponies’ talents and cutie marks,” Coltyn muttered, walking back into his cart.

Coltyn looked at the cart noticing that it had been cleaned up. He smiled and made a mental note go and thank Twilight for the help when he felt better. Coltyn went back behind his work table and lay down in front of the small pot-bellied stove. He heard hoof beats inside but the stress of the night before was still taking its toll and he fell back asleep.

***

Coltyn woke up, every muscle in his body hurt and all his joints were stiff. Coltyn shambled over to his tub and magically drew heated water from the large cauldron on the stove to the tub. He let the water fill to the brim covering his entire body. He floated a jar off the nearby shelf and sprinkled the contents into his bath. Coltyn closed his eyes - the sweet scent of the herbs filling the air with calming energies. The water slowly began to shift around him massaging his muscles, relaxing his tired body and rejuvenating it. Coltyn entered a trance as his strength slowly returned to him; the distant singing of birds and the soft breeze gently rustling the tree leaves aided in the calming aura allowing Coltyn to immerse completely in the healing herbal bath.

***

Hours rolled by and Coltyn was lifted from his trance when he heard hoof beats approaching. He was shocked looking out the small window to see the moon rising over the hill. Stepping out of the bath he drained the tub and began to dry as somepony knocked on his door.

“Hello. Coltyn are you here?” Rarity’s voice echoed.

“Yes, just a minute,” Coltyn replied, quickly running a brush through his mane. “How may I help you?” Coltyn said, entering the main room.

“I was wondering if you had seen my sister Sweetie Belle. She ran off on me and I need to find her,” Rarity explained.

“No I have been taking care of some other things. I did see Applebloom around here earlier maybe your sister is with her,” Coltyn said, the brush still working through his tail.

“Thanks Coltyn. It’s good to see you well, Twilight was worried about you.”

“You’re welcome. Why do you say Twilight was worried? When did she tell you?”

“Two days ago at our spa session. It was a side comment but I see how she acts when her mind wanders and I am sure it’s you she is thinking about.”

“That’s interesting. Wait. Two days ago… how long was I asleep?”

“I don’t know but this is, from what I gather, the third day you didn’t show up at the library. I need to get galloping, talk to you later.”

“Yes, see you later Rarity,” Coltyn said, waving as Rarity galloped over to Sweet Apple Acres.

‘Two days I was passed out? That’s rather annoying, I had hoped to get ahead but now I’ve fallen behind,’ Coltyn thought, mending the broken door on his cart. ‘Might as well get some rest, next week will be busy.’

***

The sun rose on a beautiful Monday morning and Coltyn was readying to head over to Zecora’s to learn some new potion techniques, but first he had to visit Twilight. Coltyn teleported over to the library and knocked on the door.

Twilight opened the door with a smile. “Glad to see you’re well Coltyn.”

“Yes, I’m sorry I worried you. I just needed some rest.”

“So are you here to study some more?”

“No, actually I am going to be spending some time with Zecora and working on some potion making techniques.”

“Ok, well I’m just happy that you’re better.”

“Thank you. It’s nice to know someone cares. Well I have to get going, have a good day Twilight.”

“You too, Coltyn,” Twilight waved as Coltyn teleported.

***

Back at his cart, Coltyn hitched himself to the front and pulled it into the forest. On his way out of town he saw Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo heading toward the bowling alley. Coltyn thought nothing of it making his way past the field of poison joke and safely into the heart of the forest to a large tree decorated with many old artifacts from the zebra tribes. Coltyn noticed the tree home to be dark. Walking up to the front door he saw a note pinned to it.

‘Earlier today I have gotten a request for a mix, but I don’t have the herbs to fix. The matter is urgent indeed so I left some materials out for you to read. I shall return soon with a bountiful boon.’

Coltyn chuckled to himself. “She even writes in rhyme.”

Coltyn left his cart behind Zecora’s home and let himself in. As she had written there was a small stack of books along with a few notebooks. Coltyn picked up the top book labeled Tonics and Tinctures and set to reading. Paging through the books he noted some additional catalysts that he never thought of using. Zecora hadn’t returned from her foraging so leaving a similar note on the table, Coltyn set out to find some of the materials and mix up some trial potions.

Coltyn had been gathering some plants along with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. On his way back to Zecora’s hut he ran into her in a small field of Amethyst.

“Hello, Zecora. How are you today?” Coltyn greeted her.

“I am fine,” Zecora said, noticing the book she had left out. “I see you’ve wasted no time.”

“Yes, I found some information that is worth testing. I was just on my way back.”

“Let us return to my home and look over those tomes,” Zecora said, leading the way.

Rounding the last tree as the sun reached its highest point in the sky Zecora and Coltyn stopped in shock. The door to Zecora’s hut was hanging open as was the door on Coltyn’s cart. They galloped to their homes to see what happened and what was missing. Coltyn surveyed his cart and discovered a potion base which could be altered depending on what was added. Zecora looked over her hut and couldn’t find the Heart’s Desire that she left out.

“Zecora, do you know who would have done this?” Coltyn asked, worried.

“I am sure I do, it must have been Applebloom. The youth had chipped her tooth and I told her of a mix I was brewing for a rooster and his chicks. She wants her cutie mark but she seems to lack the spark. She has used the Heart’s Desire and has left the mire.”

“This is bad, that plant was mixed with a potion base and caused the Cutie Pox Plague long ago. The cure I didn’t learn until later was hidden in a plant called Thorns of Deceit. Hidden within are seeds which hold the cure but I never figured out how to make them bloom.”

“Have no fear, my stallion friend, for I know how the Seeds of Truth to tend. The Seeds do indeed hold the cure, growing with words spoken, true and pure. It is unfortunate I have none in my home, as the location of Thorns of Deceit is unknown.”

“That is ok. I know where some grows. It’s where one of the greatest deceptions of history took place, the old fort in Everfree.”

Coltyn and Zecora gathered some supplies as it would be a long walk to the fort. The walk there was uneventful and the moon was climbing into the sky as they had made it to the fort. Coltyn and Zecora headed around the fort to the southern facing side. Coltyn and Zecora looked on in shock as the entire southern wall was overgrown with various trees and brush and mixed in was the plant they were looking for: the Thorns of Deceit.

“The Seeds of Truth are found at the plant’s heart but I’ve no idea where to start,” Zecora said looking into the tangled mess.
“I think I see a way in but I think it best if you wait here. I don’t like the feeling I’m getting and I don’t want to get you hurt,” Coltyn said, pulling out a rope and tying it around his waist. “Here, if I tug three times go ahead and pull me out. I’ll take care of any injuries later.” Zecora nodded, taking the rope into her mouth.

Coltyn looked into the mess seeing only a small opening and as he cleared the initial growth he disappeared. The thick vines constricted the path making every step an effort to not get cut. Coltyn pushed through even as the path seemed to get tighter and avoiding the thorns was impossible. Coltyn felt every needle-like thorn cut his flesh and it seemed that the plant was closing in on him.

***

Zecora stood at the entrance that Coltyn went through slowly feeding the rope out. Soon after he went in, she noticed the thorns start to shift as if they were alive. She knew something was wrong and as she went to pull on the rope, two thorns severed it and closed tightly so no pony could enter. Zecora worried for Coltyn’s safety. It was obvious that this plant was more than what she’d expected.

***

Coltyn felt the rope go limp and tugged on the rope only to feel no resistance. He pulled on the rope only to find the cut end. “Horse apples!” He exclaimed, removing the rope from him and continuing to the heart of the plant. The thorns continued to shift unnaturally while Coltyn continued on, so that even the thorns he thought he missed ripped into his flesh.

Coltyn stumbled out of the tangled mess covered in gashes and cuts from the thorns with blood matting his coat. He walked into a small clearing which at the center grew a large, thick, black, thorn covered trunk which reached up ten feet before branching out its vines into the woods. Coltyn approached slowly keeping his eyes scanning for danger. Coltyn had only gone a few feet when movement from the corner of his eye got his attention. The impact of one of the vines hitting him sent Coltyn rolling. He heard the cracking of a rib as every breath was painful but he quickly got to his feet as more vines attacked him. The vines grew thorns and Coltyn tried to dodge them but he was not successful as several of the vines buried their thorns deep into his flesh. Coltyn coughed up blood, staggering to his hooves as the vines wrapped around is back hoof pulling him up into the air.

Coltyn shook his head trying to see where he was being dragged. His vision focused on the maw of the plant. Its digestive enzymes poured from the sharp thorns which were staggered and bent slightly inward to give it maximum holding power. In the back of the maw was the glimmer of three little seeds. Coltyn knew that these had to be what he was seeking. Focusing his magic, he grabbed the seeds and ripped them from the creature. The plant let go shrieking in pain which caused the limbs to open a path out. Coltyn stashed the seeds and galloped as hard as he could out back toward Zecora.

***

Zecora paced about the area where Coltyn entered, worrying that he may be in danger. She perked her ears and watched as the thorns quickly withdrew into the darkness of the woods. She trotted into the edge where he had entered and could hear distant galloping. Coltyn came into view and she breathed a sigh of relief until she noticed the look of panic on his face. She opened her mouth to speak but Coltyn called out upon seeing her.

“Run now! Talk later!” Coltyn ordered, side stepping a thorn trying to impale him.

Zecora, seeing the danger, turned tail and ran. Coltyn caught up to her and they galloped hard and fast all the way back to her hut not looking back. Zecora and Coltyn finally slowed as her hut came into view, looking back they didn’t see any sign of pursuit.

“You must have encountered great distress because you look an utter mess,” Zecora gasped, looking over the wounds on Coltyn’s body.

“It is nothing I can’t fix. I just need to get to my cart,” Coltyn said, falling to the ground exhausted staring up as the sun’s rays shone through the trees.

The adrenalin was wearing off and the pain overcame him. He lay on the ground with every panting breath sending a wave of pain through his body. Zecora quickly went into her hut to find some potions to help heal his wounds. Coltyn slowly got his breathing under control and focused on his wounds, replacing and knitting the broken bones and closing all the gashes and cuts.

Zecora came out of her hut with a renewal potion to see Coltyn covered by a dark aura which was mending his wounds. Within minutes all the cuts, bruises, and broken bones had mended.

“You have unnatural healing speed for such a normal looking steed,” Zecora explained, raising a curious eyebrow.

Coltyn had never let anypony know of his healing abilities. “You can’t tell anypony what you saw,” Coltyn stated, standing up. “I don’t need a bunch of ponies looking to me for instant healing and quick fixes.”

“I can your reason comprehend, but why hide such a gift to mend?” Zecora asked, offering the potion to Coltyn.

“It’s a double-edged sword,” Coltyn said plainly. “I am blessed in that I will not die but cursed with eternal life. Trust me, I’ve known too many times why death could be a welcomed blessing,” Coltyn explained somberly, a tear forming in his eye.

“Did you find the solution to our needs, the three special magic seeds?” Zecora quickly asked, changing the subject.

“Yes,” Coltyn said, lifting the seeds with his magic. “These seeds will cure Applebloom but we must hurry she probably is gaining cutie marks pretty quickly,” Coltyn said, with a sense of urgency.

Zecora nodded and Coltyn placed the seeds in her side bag and the two headed for Ponyville.

***

Coltyn and Zecora entered Ponyville to hear the screams of the locals who had barricaded themselves in their homes, leaving Twilight and Applejack standing in the middle of town as a tumble weed rolled by them.

“I thought I had removed their fear the last time I visited here, but doors are barred and shutters shut; guess I should have stayed inside my hut,” Zecora said, walking up to AJ and Twilight.

“Zecora! Coltyn! Applebloom has cutie pox,” Twilight said, obviously distressed.

Zecora and Coltyn looked over seeing Applebloom working out a calculus problem on a chalkboard.

“We were on our way to see if either of you knew of a cure,” Twilight explained.

“But magically you both are here,” AJ said, turning to Zecora. “Was your zebra sense tingling?”

“My zebra sense did not bring me round it was a special flower I needed found,” Zecora explained.

“It seems that while Zecora and I were out somepony had taken the rest of her ingredients, not to mention a potion base I had mixed,” Coltyn narrowed his eyes at Applebloom who was lifting a dumbbell with her tail.

Zecora walked up to Applebloom. “Applebloom, what do you say? Did this flower just walk away?”

Applebloom mumbled as a set of sponges appeared on her causing her to run and clean one of the windows of a nearby house. Not wanting to catch the cutie pox the ponies inside donned Haz-Mat masks. Twilight and AJ looked truly worried as Coltyn smiled.

“We have a cure which is hidden in the seeds of truth,” Coltyn explained as Zecora pulled out the seeds from her bag.

“Well then give ‘em to her quick,” AJ exclaimed.

“These seeds must be planted in the ground. With the truth they will grow and the cure is found,” Zecora explained.

AJ and Twilight looked at each other confused. “Come again?” AJ stated.

“The seeds of truth do hold the cure but one must speak words true and pure,” Zecora clarified, narrowing her eyes at Applebloom.

“Well then let’s get to it,” AJ said, knocking the seeds into the air and planting them. “Alright they’re planted, now somepony tell the truth!”

Coltyn and Zecora looked at Applebloom and waited for her to finally admit her crime as she tap danced past Pinkie Pie who was sitting on the entrance to Sugarcube Corner. A tornado mark appeared on Applebloom’s flank and she started to spin wildly. Zecora and Coltyn just waited while AJ and Twilight were getting more worried and desperate.

“Somepony! Anypony!” AJ hollered, while the rest of the townsfolk hid.

“Yesterday, I told Mrs. Cake that I only ate two corn cakes but I really ate three,” Pinkie exclaimed.

Twilight and AJ were hoping that this would cause the seeds to bloom but nothing happened. They then looked at Pinkie a little shocked.

“Ok, six! I ate six corn cakes!” Pinkie shouted, hoping the seeds wouldn’t see through the lie.

Twilight and AJ looked at the soil covering the seeds, but still nothing happened.

“Make it stop! Oh, make it stop!” Pinkie cried.

Applebloom was still spinning like a tornado as she yelled. “Ah, I can’t stand it anymore! It’s me, I admit it! I didn’t earn my cutie mark, they’re all fake!”

Applebloom stopped spinning, sprawling on her stomach before she got up and began to tap dance again. Coltyn and Zecora looked at where Applejack had planted the seeds while Twilight and AJ dropped their heads to the ground to watch as the dirt began to shift.

“I figured that the heart’s desire would help me get what I wanted most. So when Zecora left her hut I took one of Coltyn’s basic potions and put the rest of the heart’s desire in it,” Applebloom admitted.

The seeds burst forth a stem and opened purple pedals with a white bell flower inside. Coltyn and Zecora smiled as the rest of the ponies looked on in wonder at the plant. Applebloom chomped the flower, and moments after she swallowed, it the excessive cutie marks began to vanish from her. Applebloom looked at her blank skin as her friends Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle ran to her side.

“Applebloom,” Sweetie Belle squeaked.

“Are you OK?” Scootaloo asked.

“I’m great and I’ve never been happier to be a blank flank,” Applebloom smiled seeing her friends. “But I’m awful sorry I lied, especially to you gals,” Applebloom said, lowering her head. “I was just so desperate for my cutie mark I just got carried away,” Applebloom admitted, her friends smiling. Applebloom walked up to Zecora and Coltyn. “And I’m really sorry I snuck those flowers and potion away from you two. Why I wouldn’t blame ya if ya never wanted me to come by again.”

Zecora smiled as she lifted Applebloom’s head. “Now don’t be silly you are always welcome my little filly. With each mistake we learn something new, growing up into a better you,” Zecora stated.

Twilight and Applejack looked at Applebloom smiling and AJ gave her a wink as Zecora departed.

“I’m just glad that we could fix this and there are no permanent complications,” Coltyn stressed the seriousness of her meddling.

Twilight turned to Applebloom. “Applebloom would you mind writing to Princess Celestia and telling her what you learned?”

“I’d be happy to Twilight. Spike!” Applebloom called, the little dragon speeding over.

“Ready!” Spike exclaimed, quill and parchment in hand.

“Dear Princess Celestia,” Applebloom dictated as Spike wrote. “Waiting for what your heart desires can be really hard and you might try to take a short cut. But this dishonesty never works because you didn’t earn what your heart desires. The only cure is being honest with yourself and others and that is something that every heart desires.”

As Applebloom finished Spike rolled up the scroll and with a bit of fire sent the message off to the Princess. As Applejack went to talk to her sister Coltyn turned to Twilight.

“I have some things to get in Manehatten and I will be gone for a while,” Coltyn said, almost sad to leave. “Here,” Coltyn pulled out a small box. “This is a message box. I would like to keep you updated on my travels.”

“That’s very generous of you. We won’t forget all you helped us with and I look forward to your letters,” Twilight said with a smile.
Coltyn departed as Applebloom finally seemed to learn the importance of patience. Coltyn was just to the edge of the forest when he heard the sound of a filly, following him.

“Hey Coltyn,” Applebloom called. “I know you’re probably mad at me but could I ask you some questions?”

“Of course but why are you heading into the forest?” Coltyn wondered.

“Well I was hoping to get a lesson in potion making but, umm… what did you mean by permanent complications?” Applebloom asked, warily.

Coltyn’s ears perked as he recalled the events in his mind as he continued to Zecora’s. “Long ago two unicorn colts went to school at Clover’s School of Magic and Potions. One was a potion maker with a cauldron cutie mark while the other was a blank flank. The blank flank seemed to excel in many areas of magic and eventually started to become a talented potion maker. His rival couldn’t stand this blank outdoing him at what was his talent. So one day the potion maker stole a rare ingredient from the teacher’s storage. But when he went to sour the blank’s potion there was an accident and the ingredient fell into his own cauldron, instead. The teacher summoned the nurses, but it was already too late, as the potion blew up in the young pony’s face, changing him forever.”

“So somepony can be really good at something and still not earn their mark?” Applebloom asked.

“Yes, in the case of the blank, he was in school for the second year which was unusual for a blank to make it a year without getting their mark. However, it wasn’t until his rival returned and the news of HER predicament spread. The ponies the potion maker use to call friends and allies began to bully her. One day the blank saw this and stepped up to defend her. The bullies turned their attention to the blank, insulting him, and calling him names, but it didn’t work. The blank didn’t back down, and when the bully’s horn lit – preparing to cast – the blank did the same. The conflict broke out and the blank defended the filly with all his strength. The bullies had lost by the time the teachers arrived and they were sent to the medical wing to heal.

“The teachers took the young colt to see the headmaster but he turned to his former rival saying, ‘to protect and defend.’ With that statement a tingle on his flank let him know that he figured out his place in life and the first pony to see it was his former rival.” Applebloom was entranced by his story and didn’t even notice that they had reached Zecora’s. “Well, I have business in Manehatten so I will see you later,” Coltyn said, walking to his cart.

Applebloom just stood there running the scenario over in her mind. “Maybe I should think things through more before trying something I’ve never done. And maybe sometime you could teach me about potions?” Applebloom asked, shyly pawing at the dirt.
“You’d have to promise not to try anything on your own until I say you’re ready,” Coltyn warned.

“Oh no, I won’t! I promise!”

Applebloom knocked on Zecora’s door and when the zebra called out a welcome, stepped inside. Coltyn sighed as he hitched to his cart and with a flash of his horn he and his cart were gone.

Chapter 4: Broken Promise

Flying through the air with great speed, Coltyn descended to Manehatten. Coltyn walked out of the vapors, regaining his corporeal form to see only a few ponies roaming the streets, all of whom were wearing surgical masks. Coltyn walked up to a lemon colored filly bouncing a ball off the side of a building.

"Excuse me, but what is going on here?" Coltyn inquired.

The filly turned looking up. "Oh, didn't you hear? Hay Fever has gripped the town and…"

"Lemon Drop!" A mare called out, running to the filly. "What have I told you about talking to strangers," the mare scolded. "And you," she growled, turning to Coltyn. "You must have a death wish running around unprotected and I never want to see you near my foal again," the mare exclaimed, pushing the filly with her head to get her away from him.

"That was unexpected." Coltyn stood there for a minute trying to process what had just happened.
The mention of Hay Fever let him know that he needed to head to the hospital. Coltyn headed down the streets and noticed that all the businesses had closed signs up in the middle of the day. "This Hay Fever must be bad if all the shops are closed."

***

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

I have arrived in Manehatten to find the town plagued by Hay Fever. I have been working very closely with Nurse Kind Heart and hopefully we will have everypony back on their hooves soon. I have taken advantage of their archives here and have some new leads and possibly a way to kind of cheat the rules of magic. The tomes for its creation are held at the Magic Academy in Las Pegasus. I'm planning to book my train ride to have a layover in Canterlot for Hearth's Warming Eve. I have included my notes on the plague here in Manehatten and hope they help you in your studies.

Sincerely;

Coltyn Pendragon

***

Dear Coltyn Pendragon,

Thanks for the notes, they were really informative and I'm glad to hear that the plague is being handled. Life in Ponyville has been interesting as of late. My friends and I had our pets out for a play date and accidentally disturbed Rainbow Dash during her nap. She decided that she wanted a pet but wasn't sure of which one she wanted so she arranged a competition to decide. Fluttershy insisted on having a tortoise try as well much to Rainbow's disapproval. So the last challenge was a race through Ghastly Gorge and when Rainbow didn't make it to the finish line first I knew something was wrong. Turns out that the tortoise saved her from a rock that pinned her down and Rainbow finally chose her pet to be the tortoise. So it just goes to show that even against all odds if you stick with it you can come out on top. Hope to hear from you soon.

Your Friend;

Twilight Sparkle

***

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

Glad to hear you found my research helpful and thank you for the encouragement. Life in Manehatten has gotten mostly back to normal. Only the ponies who first came down with the fever are still recovering and my research is going smoothly. I think I might head to Las Pegasus early if things work out here. There is still something missing that I just can't put my hoof on. Well I'm sure I'll figure it out and I'm glad to hear your friend found a pet. I know it is a big responsibility taking care of a pet and I hope she can handle it. I can't wait to hear from you again.

Yours Truly;

Coltyn Pendragon

***

Dear Coltyn,

I have discovered that being heroic and receiving praise can be a good thing but if you let it go to your head you might need to get knocked back down to earth. Rainbow Dash recently had a massive ego attack and put a lot of lives in danger so we had to intervene. I won't bore you with details other than we successfully knocked it into her head that it's not the praise that you should work for but the safety and wellbeing of everypony. Also got to try my horn at a new repair spell I learned recently to fix objects and basically saved Ponyville from becoming a lake. I'll write you again soon.

Your Friend;

Twilight

***

Dear Twilight,

I met your friend Rarity at the train platform in Canterlot. She told me your birthday is in a couple days so Happy Early Birthday. Sorry I can't make it to your birthday party. I am currently working on making a Philosopher's or Sorcerer's Stone, depending on who you ask. This looks promising and I hope to be concluding my research soon. I have also included a copy of my perfected admixtures so that you can see how they work as a present. Have a wonderful Birthday and I'll keep you up to date on my work.

Your Friend;

Coltyn

***

Dear Coltyn,

I really wish you were here for the last few days. Spike had his birthday and with getting a bunch of presents from my friends he went around town demanding gifts. But the real shock came the next morning when he had doubled in size! After seeing some professionals I took him to Zecora and found out that dragons grow larger as they hoard more things. He was as large as the other dragons I'd seen but without wings, that was odd. But Rarity told me a good talking to snapped Spike back to his senses. Thank Celestia for Rainbow and Fluttershy who saved Rarity and Spike from becoming splatter marks on the ground. I never imagined Spike not being there for me, he's my number one assistant and friend. I'm just worried that he might change again and not come back. I'll wrap up before this becomes a dissertation and just say that I really wished you were here and could give some solid answers. Thanks for listening.

Your Friend;

Twilight

PS: Do you know anyway to fix a half destroyed home? I am not fond of having Pinkie Pie and the Cakes sleeping at my place.

***

Dear Twilight,

I will say it is odd for a dragon to grow that much but I guess it is because of his lack of experience and contact with other dragons. The best I can say to that is remind that you love and care for him and his wellbeing. I have a spell that will fix their home which is included in this letter just be sure to do the best you can at visualizing the final structure. I would read up on basic engineering so you know how to make a stable structure.

I have not found anything here relating to making the stone. There is nothing here that I don't already know so I will be packing my bags and heading back to Canterlot. The key to the stone's creation remains elusive, but I have confidence I will find it somewhere, possibly in the archives in Baltimare. It feels as though I'm overlooking something, but I just can't put my hoof on it. I will still be in Canterlot for Hearth's Warming, so I hope we can catch up then.

Your Friend;

Coltyn

***

The crisp air bit at Coltyn's nose as he appeared outside the city walls of Canterlot. He left his cart outside and cast an illusion on it to make appear to be part of the forest and wrapped himself in a hooded cloak, faded royal blue with purple lining. Coltyn walked into the city and was struck with awe as he had not seen so many lights and decorations before. All the store fronts were decorated with seasonal reds and greens as the ponies donned their best holiday outfits. Coltyn couldn't help but laugh at seeing two ponies walking down the street with their noses pointing to the sky making their breath look like the steam from the Friendship Express.

Coltyn made his way through the streets relearning the paths of his former home. Rounding a corner, his attention was caught by a light blue mare with a short cut tri-colored mane and tail waving in the gentle winter breeze. What made her stand out was the fact she was wearing just a light cloth over her wings and seemed to not be bothered by the cold. Coltyn was dazed by the beauty of her but his magic sense told him that he knew this mare. This was the filly he rescued and he couldn't believe that tiny foal had become this beautiful mare.

His mind raced. 'Should I approach her? What should I say? Why is my stomach turning?'

Coltyn stood there watching her as two pegasus guards approached her. There was a short discussion before she and the guards took to the sky. 'She works with the Royal Guard? Celestia must want to keep a close eye on her without raising suspicion.' Coltyn was mentally trying to put the pieces together when he heard a familiar voice behind him squeal, "And it's me!"

Smiling, Coltyn turned to see Twilight and her friends all walking together, heading toward the castle. He raised a hoof in greeting. "Hello everypony. What brings you all to Canterlot?"

Twilight proudly stepped forward. "We have been asked by Princess Celestia to play the lead roles in the Hearth's Warming Eve Pageant tomorrow."

"This is quite an honor. I'm sure you will all do a great job," Coltyn said, keeping pace with the six as they made their way to the castle.

The seven ponies made their way through Canterlot, Twilight and Coltyn mainly talked about magic uses and spell augmentation. The others chatted about their roles in the upcoming performance except for Fluttershy who seemed to be using every ounce of willpower she had not to run away.

When they arrived at the castle, Twilight invited Coltyn to stay with her so they could discuss the deeper workings of magic and help her practice some spells she would need to use during the pageant. Coltyn was a little hesitant but agreed and they all made their way up to the archives that Twilight used to call home before she moved to Ponyville.

They talked into the night and Coltyn finally had to tell Twilight to get some sleep and that he would continue their conversation in the morning. Coltyn left Twilight's room quietly and headed down the to the castle grounds and out into the streets of Canterlot. His mind was still shaken from earlier as he trotted aimlessly through the streets not paying attention to where his hooves were taking him.

Coltyn found himself in front of a small café and he felt the icy breeze send a chill down his spine through his cloak. He decided to get a warm drink and let his ears pick up the gossip around town. Coltyn was comfortably settled at the counter sipping tea when he noticed the blue mare he'd seen earlier enter the establishment, and sit a few cushions down from him. The bartender saw her walk in and began to mix up a frozen fruit drink, having it ready for her when she sat down. Coltyn couldn't hold back, he needed to talk to her.

"I must say I've never seen a mare of your youth with such a tangible air of authority before," Coltyn said, moving two cushions away from her.

She didn't even look at him. "I'm not interested in anything you have to offer."

"I just wish to know your name," Coltyn said, simply, unruffled by her blatant hostility.

"Why?" she asked, archly.

"Why? What do you wish to hear? That I think you're beautiful? You are. That you intrigue me? You do. That the air of mystery about you compels me to solve it? Of course. Perhaps you would prefer to hear that you carry yourself with great presence, or that your disaffected air makes you seem unapproachable, and leads one to wonder what lies beneath the surface? You know all of these things, and yet none of them matters. I only ask a name, nothing more."

She frowned. "Thunder Snow, Caption of the Pegasus Guard," Thunder Snow said, coldly.

Coltyn didn't say another word and went back to his drink as his ears scanned the conversations. The only conversation that intrigued him was that of two pegasi in the corner who were speculating about what he had said to get her to tell him her name. 'It seems she is sought after by others, although it would appear that she's cultivated a reputation for striking down offers. Interesting.' Coltyn thought, slowly drinking his tea. Out of the corner of his eye he could see her looking at him, not sure what had just happened.

Thunder Snow was known for her untouchable, unflappable strength, and had never felt the urge to tell another pony her name on the first meeting. She could string along stallions for weeks before turning them down. 'What was different about this one? How did he get to me? Why do I want to know how he did that? There is more to him then he showed, he is deep and mysterious. I must find out why.'

Coltyn lay his bits on the bar and adjusted his cloak just enough that Thunder Snow caught the royal purple lining. Coltyn slowly walked from the café and made his way back to a small motel he thought he passed on his journey.

Thunder Snow sat at the bar looking deeply into her fruit cocktail, lost in her own mind. 'He wears royal colors but still comes to places like this?' Shaking her head in irritation, she mentally chastised herself. 'Why am I still thinking about him? He's just another male. Still… I've never seen a stallion that direct and yet charming. What was that all about, really?' Thunder Snow shook her head trying to erase the thought of him from her mind. Nearly an hour passed, Thunder Snow looked intently into her drink as if it would give her answers to her questions. She laid her bits on the bar and left thinking only one thing, 'I must know his name.'

***

The six began to prepare for the pageant and Coltyn was helping by setting up the backdrops when he heard Fluttershy shriek in fear, and then a fiercely cold wind blew through the dressing room. Coltyn just listened, and as the six argued the wind raged stronger, until the young mares finally calmed down. Then, the rage of the storm abated just as suddenly as it hade developed. Coltyn couldn't quite put his hoof on it, but something felt familiar about the essence of that wind. 'Almost as if…' Coltyn shook his head. He needed to gather more information. Coltyn decided to leave the preparations and headed for a walk in the castle grounds.

***

Thunder Snow stood atop the castle tower in her blue and golden armor, looking over Canterlot. She could hear the argument between the six mares from Ponyville and she could feel something stir inside her. The air seemed to become colder while the wind picked up. She did feel the wind slow as the arguing stopped and then she saw him; the one who took her by surprise and managed to get her to tell him her name, and had the nerve to not even offer his. She leapt from the tower, the cold air racing around her form as she fell. Spreading her wings, she pulled up before hitting the ground and called out.

"You there!" Thunder Snow called.

Coltyn stopped, and turned toward the familiar voice. "Good evening, Thunder Snow, Captain of the Pegasus Guard."

Thunder Snow landed in front of him. "You have a lot of nerve. Ask a mare her name and not give yours."

"Yes. Thus, of course, you sought me out," Coltyn said, plainly.

"So, what, you tested me? That seems underhanded," Thunder Snow huffed.

"It is. But strong confident mares like you don't fall for lines and empty words. You have to play a little dirty," Coltyn informed her with a half-smile.

"I have to get back, but don't think I'm done," Thunder Snow scowled, walking by him and spreading her wings. She paused for a moment, and demanded, "Tell me your name."

"Coltyn Pendragon," he said, then stood and watched Thunder Snow fly back to the main hall.

Coltyn stood in the cold night air, his heart pounding slightly, before reason asserted itself, and he shook his head. 'What am I doing? She is HER daughter! I shouldn't get emotionally attached. Why can't I help but feel that my heart is betraying my head. This doesn't make sense; I never let my emotions get involved. What is happening to me?' Coltyn rested his head against one of his hooves.

Drawing his normal air of academic detachment around himself like armor, Coltyn made his way back to the dressing area, and settled on a bench where he could observe the pageant and the effects from backstage while he sorted through his thoughts. The play had gotten to the part where the windigos encase the leaders in the ice cave but something felt different. Coltyn reached out with his magic, extending his sense to try and find out what was making the difference.

Reaching out, he followed the strange disturbance to Thunder Snow, realizing with a shock that she had access to her magic. Coltyn reeled mentally as he realized the frightening significance of his discovery. 'Her core is still intact. That means that there is still time. But if she caused the weather to change that means that her magic is wild and uncontrolled. This is bad… the seal I placed on her must be fading. The time I had to fix this just got a lot shorter.'

Coltyn made his way to the dressing rooms and quickly scribed a note to Twilight, leaving it on her vanity. He penned another to Thunder Snow and asked one of the Pegasus Guards to deliver it to her. Coltyn trotted down the hall and, when he didn't see anypony, quickly teleported to his cart and took off.

***

After the pageant, Thunder Snow was keeping watch from the top of the castle tower when one of her guards flew up, delivering a message. She dismissed the guard and opened the letter.

'Dear Thunder Snow;

I have urgent matters to attend to so I won't be in Canterlot. This isn't the last you will hear from me though, I will return.

Sincerely,

Coltyn Pendragon'

Thunder Snow looked the short letter over and over, thinking 'He left. He just… LEFT!' Her mix of anger and loneliness burned deep in her heart as she bellowed from the roof.

***

Twilight and her friends were arguing over who should shut the window when the unholy, ear-piercing howl of what they thought must be a windigo made them cringe.

"You know what, I got it," Rainbow Dash said, flying over to shut the window.

Twilight looked at her dressing table and noticed a note. She opened it and began reading.

'Dear Twilight;

My time for research has been reduced and I must continue my work. I will keep you up to date when I can but I have a feeling that won't be often. Write you later.

Your friend,

Coltyn'

Twilight thought about the note on her way back to her room. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Coltyn's sudden departure than he told her, and she was concerned. She had become so lost in thought that she didn't notice Princess Celestia approach her.

"You seem preoccupied. A bit for your thoughts," Princess Celestia said, playfully.

"Oh, Princess! Sorry, I got a note from Coltyn – he just took off. No reason or real explanation, just a brief 'I have to go, I'll write later'," Twilight explained, frowning.

"He has always been reclusive, and even before the war with my sister when she was calling herself Nightmare Moon, he was an enigma even to me," Princess Celestia admitted.

"He doesn't seem the kind of pony to do things without reason," Twilight pondered. "But why the sudden need to leave? It's like a puzzle I feel compelled to solve."

"I know how you feel, my faithful student. I tried to chase him for what I thought was his natural life, but he always managed to remain a step ahead of me. However, if your instincts are telling you there is something wrong, I trust them. Please keep me informed of what transpires, and of course, if you need my aid in any way, you have only to send a letter," Celestia said, heading for her chambers.

"Of course, Princess," Twilight acknowledged, bowing and waiting for the Princess to turn into another corridor before letting herself into her room.

That night, Twilight lay on her bed, thinking about the unexpected mystery of the evening. The note, Coltyn suddenly disappearing, nothing was adding up. She desperately wanted to solve the riddle, but her body let itself be wrapped in the warmth of the bed, and gradually she drifted off to sleep.

Chapter 5: Harsh Truth

Coltyn appeared at his cart and hooked himself to it. He left immediately, heading for Baltimare. His heart was heavy with the realization that he had broken his promise to not return to Canterlot until he had the cure. As he traveled, Coltyn steadied himself, consciously putting aside his distress, and began preparing his mind for the task at hoof. He arrived in Baltimare shortly before dawn, and headed straight to the library.

The library in Baltimare was extensive, and Coltyn became completely absorbed, as he sifted and analyzed every scrap of information held in the tomes. He lost count of the number of times he staggered back to his cart for sleep when the librarians kicked his rump out the door as they closed the library for the night. And yet, each morning, he was waiting when the morning mare opened the library again. He made copious notes on previous cases that seemed to be similar, academic research, and magic experiments that had been made and recorded. Anything that seemed like it might be relevant made it into his notes, and eventually he started noting things that looked like they might be related, even if he wasn't certain how useful they might be.

***

All of his energy went into the search, but eventually, Coltyn closed the last book, and his stubborn willpower gave out. Exhausted, he went to his cart to process his findings and get some sleep. However, that was not to be, as the moment he stepped inside, he noticed the box on his table was glowing, which meant that someone had written him.

Opening the lid of the box, he squinted slightly at the seal, and frowned. "A letter from Twilight?" Coltyn blinked his dry, blurring eyes, his horn flickering a bit before his magic picked up the letter, so he could read it.

'Dear Coltyn;

Everyone is worried about you. I'm worried about you. It's been almost two months and I haven't heard a word from you. I know how annoying it is to have your studies interrupted, but this feels more like you've been avoiding us. Is something wrong? Please let me know you're ok.

I thought I should catch you up on what has happened lately, since you've been away for so long. The Zap Apples came and went and I have a jar of Granny Smith's jam that I'm saving to share with you. Mrs. Cake had her babies – Pound Cake - a pegasus colt, and Pumpkin Cake - a unicorn filly – shortly after Hearth's warming. I got my friendship review paper for the Princess done on time, thank goodness. Then Applejack went off to the Equestria Rodeo and walked away with a ton of ribbons.

I could keep regaling you with the stories of life here in Ponyville while you've been away, but one of the main reasons I'm writing is because we need your help. Applejack and her family are being forced to compete with a cider making machine for the right to sell cider in Ponyville. I could really use your knowledge to help us if things don't go well.

Please help,

Twilight

PS: I also spent much of the winter with Applejack's brother, Big Macintosh. Since there weren't very many chores to do at the farm, he had a lot of free time, which he spent at the library. It was nice to have him around, as that gave me somepony to talk to who actually listens. I didn't know he was so well read; his knowledge of the classics is very extensive. It's been exciting uncovering the layers hidden within the most laconic stallion in Equestria. Whenever I'm around him, I feel like my skin is tingling, just under my coat. It's different, and I've been doing some research, trying to figure out the cause. Maybe this is the next step in my study of friendship.'

Coltyn dropped the letter on the table, and eyed the pile of scrolls he'd already accumulated in notes, and the smaller stack of books he'd borrowed from the library that day. "Well I'm sure I can remember what was in these books; I've already got my notes on them. I can't believe that two months have passed. I think I've got everything this library has to offer, and I can go over everything as well in Ponyville as I could here," Coltyn muttered to himself. He gathered his library books together, and took them out to the return bin. Returning to his cart, he noticed a book that had gotten wedged behind his notes. It was the history tome he'd meant to give Twilight for Hearth's warming, and a stab of guilt shot through him. "I can't believe that I didn't give this to her." Coltyn moved the book, making sure it was secure, but that he wouldn't forget it again. Performing a final cleanup of his cart, and ensuring all his possessions were secured, he left Baltimare for Ponyville.

Coltyn arrived in Ponyville very late that night, and simply parked his cart next to the library and settled in for some sleep.

***

The sun was just breaking the horizon when Coltyn was awakened by excited knocking on his door. "I'm coming," Coltyn called from the back. Rolling out of bed he looked himself over, straightening his mane before opening the door. Twilight tackled him with a broad grin.

"I'm so glad you're here!" Twilight exclaimed, giving him a hug. "There is so much I want to tell you."

Coltyn held up a hoof to silence her. "I'll be happy to let you fill me in on everything later, but isn't there something happening at Sweet Apple Acres that requires our attention now?" Coltyn asked, pointedly.

"Oh, yeah! Come on, I'll explain on the way," Twilight said, looking back into the library. "Spike! Hurry up or we'll be late!"

"Yeah, yeah, I'm coming," Spike said, rubbing his eye. "Oh, hey Coltyn. When did you get here?"

"Late last night, and it sounds like I have some catching up to do," Coltyn said, as the three of them made their way over to Sweet Apple Acres.

Twilight explained the deal that was made recklessly by Granny Smith because the brothers got to her. She also mentioned that if they lost the cider business the farm could go under. Coltyn took in her explanation, and started formulating a counter play, just in case.

The brothers started out ahead, which Coltyn had already expected to happen. Twilight asked the mayor if honorary family could help, and in their arrogance the twins allowed it. Coltyn noticed that Twilight wasn't looking at Applejack but past her, at Big Macintosh, when she made her request, and he hid a smile at the slight pink flush in the violet mare's cheeks. With the Apples – aided by Twilight and her friends – slowly closing the gap, the twins desperately sought a way to increase production, and eventually turned off the quality control device on their machine. Coltyn watched as the machine began to destroy the field it was working, and feverishly began making notes on how many trees were uprooted. Mayor Mare called, "Time's up!" and proceeded to count the barrels. After a few minutes she announced, "Flim and Flam win!"

"We lost?!" Applejack asked.

"Aww, too bad Apples," Flam said.

"Guess you'll just have to find a line of work that doesn't match your names quite so… perfectly," Flim mocked.

"Now, should we tear down all these tacky buildings and put up new ones, brother?" Flam gloated.

"I don't see why not, brother. After all this isn't Sweet Apple Acres anymore. How about Flim Flam Fields?" Flim said, magically producing a pull rope to hang their sign over the Apple's sale stand.

"How about Sweet Apple Acres," Coltyn retorted coolly, moving from the crowd.

"Who are you!?" Flim and Flam demanded in unison.

"Just a pony who wants to make sure everything is done right," Coltyn stated.

"We won," Flim argued.

"They lost," Flam added.

"What's the problem?" they asked in unison.

"If memory serves, the contest was to determine who could sell cider in Ponyville. Is this right, Mayor Mare?" Coltyn inquired.

"Yes, the winner was to become the sole cider provider for the town," Mayor Mare acknowledged.

"So yes, you have won the exclusive right to sell your cider while the Apple family cannot," Coltyn continued, turning to give a quick wink to Twilight. "However, the farm, the apples, and this land all still remain the property of the Apple Family. Now, your machine has caused some extensive damage to their property, which with so many witnesses would be an easy win if the Apples wish to prosecute."

"But without the cider sales their farm will go under," Flam exclaimed, trying to fight back.

"Yes, it's better that they just let us take over," Flim stated.

"If that's what you want, then I propose a new deal. We will let the citizens of Ponyville decide this matter," Coltyn smiled, waving a hoof over the crowd. "We all know that the first time something is made it is good. The hard part is continuing to keep high quality product while trying to meet the demands of your customers. So, Citizens of Ponyville, your task is to determine whose cider you want. The stakes are the Apple Family Farm and The Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 – both the machine itself, and the patent rights – along with the right to sell cider and all barrels already made."

"We have no issue with this," Flam agreed.

"Applejack?" Coltyn asked.

Applejack looked long at Coltyn who gave her a, 'I won't let them win,' nod. "Deal," Applejack sighed.

Coltyn grabbed the last barrel made by each team and took them over to the sale table. Coltyn walked over to Twilight. "Brand each barrel so that you know which is which and then place them on the table."

Twilight branded the inside of the lids and resealed them so she was the only one who knew which was which. She then teleported the barrels on to the table and Coltyn tapped them with pour spouts. The test was simple; everypony would be given a small sample of each and whichever they liked more they would stand on that barrel's side. The line of ponies filed through and it was obvious that they like the cider from the left barrel, as nopony moved to the right.

"It seems that we have a clear winner," Coltyn announced, looking at the crowd. "Now let's find out whom." Coltyn lifted the left barrel and lifted the lid revealing the words 'Apple Brand' inscribed. "Sorry, Flim and Flam, but your quantity of cider didn't match the quality the ponies of Ponyville expect."

"Nopony wants our product?" Flim asked the crowd.

The entire audience narrowed their eyes and gave a resounding, "NO!"

"Fine, let's take our leave of these antique ponies and their outdated ways of thinking, brother," Flam said, sticking his nose up at the crowd.

"Yes, I've had all I can stand, brother," Flim agreed, turning and leaving the town.

Coltyn grinned victoriously as he watched them walk away. Applejack walked up to Coltyn and Applebloom gave him a hug.

"How were ya'll able to do that?" Applejack asked, curious but relieved.

"I've studied law and I've dealt with fast talkers before," Coltyn said, turning to Applejack. "But what is important is that you have your farm and family," Coltyn looked down at Applebloom.

"Yeah, but I can't help but feel a bit sorry for them," Applejack admitted.

"That is natural, Applejack. You feel sorry for them because you have a heart. But I'm sure they'll be fine. Now let us all have a drink and celebrate your victory," Coltyn smiled.

"I couldn't agree more," Applejack smiled back.

"Hey Coltyn, I was wondering if I could take you up on your offer to teach me about potions?" Applebloom asked, walking back to the drink station.

"Of course, I'll be over at the library, so if your sister doesn't mind I could give you lessons after school," Coltyn said, look to Applejack for approval.

"Ah guess if ya'll are willin' to teach her. Ah ain't got a problem with it," Applejack smiled.

"All right!" Applebloom shouted, excitedly trotting up to the dispenser.

Applebloom poured for everypony, and Applejack and her friends, Big Macintosh, and Coltyn lifted their mugs and toasted their victory. They enjoyed the crisp, satisfying coolness of the cider as they drank it down. Coltyn did notice a slight sting on the back of his throat, indicating at least a small amount of alcohol present, most likely from the press or barrels, but such a minor trace shouldn't be cause for worry. However, once the celebration began to pick up steam, Coltyn took his leave, heading back to his cart.

"Coltyn," Twilight called, hurrying after him, and catching him at the farm's gate.

"I'm sorry, Twilight. I'm not in a celebratory mood. I have to get back to work," Coltyn said, looking toward his cart.

"That's ok. Here," Twilight pulled out a key. "You can study in the library. I'll see you later."

"I've got a book I wanted to give you at Hearth's Warming but it slipped my mind. I'll leave it out on the main table in the library."

"Oh, what's the book called?" Twilight asked, eagerly.

Coltyn smiled. "If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise, but I know it's one you don't have in your library."

"OHMYGOSHOHMYGOSH!!!" Twilight squealed. "I always love new books. I can't wait to see but I think I'm going to stay here for a bit."

"That's fine, go enjoy yourself," Coltyn said. "I have a lot to do and not enough time to do it."

"I'll be home soon," Twilight said, heading back to the party.

'I'll have this puzzle solved by week's end,' Coltyn encouraged himself. 'There isn't a problem I can't fix.'

***

Coltyn was engrossed in his studies as his magic held various books and he had three pieces of chalk writing down his thoughts on separate blackboards. His eyes scanned pages with incredible speed as book after book was flipped through, notes taken, and then set aside.

"COLTYN!" Spike bellowed from the door.

The scare caused Coltyn to lose his concentration as his magic dispersed, sending books flying in every direction. He turned slowly, looking at Spike with rage in his voice. "WHAT was so important that you HAD to interrupt me?" Coltyn snarled, using the Royal Canterlot Voice to emphasize.

"I'm sorry, it's just that Rainbow Dash hurt herself and Twilight asked me to ask you if you could help her," Spike answered, sheepishly.

"How did she injure herself?" Coltyn asked, softly, ashamed that he snapped at Spike.

"She was showing off and she didn't pull up from her nosedive soon enough, so she hurt her wing," Spike explained. "Do you think you can help her?"

"No," Coltyn said flatly.

"What? Why not?" Spike demanded.

"I'm not a doctor. Everypony needs to take their lumps and hopefully the healing time will give her time to reflect on what landed her there," Coltyn explained, bluntly.

"So that's it? You're no help at all," Spike huffed, leaving Coltyn alone.

Coltyn sighed as his horn lit as he teleported to the front door. "Hey Spike," Coltyn called. "I may not be able to help but I should offer my condolences."

"So answer me this. You keep reading those medical books and making potions and you're telling me that you can't fix a broken wing?"

"I could fix her wing with a little study but I'm not going to, because if ponies didn't have to deal with the consequences of their actions they wouldn't learn from their mistakes. I know it's hard to accept but trust me, she will come out a better pony for it," Coltyn explained, walking up to the hospital.

After talking to the receptionist, Spike and Coltyn walked into room 12 as the nurse was shuffling Twilight and the others out. Coltyn asked the nurse for just a few moments to say, 'hi' and she let him and Spike in.

"Hello, Rainbow Dash, looks like you did a number on your wing," Coltyn greeted.

"Gee, ya think?" Rainbow snorted. "You here to give me a magic cure? I need to get outta here!"

"No, Spike and I are here to offer our sympathy and well-wishes. We hope you get well soon."

"Yeah, you'll be back in the air in no time," Spike encouraged.

Her face falling, Rainbow snorted. "Whatever," she huffed, rolling over to face away from Spike and Coltyn.

"Time to go," the nurse called.

"Come on, Spike. Let's leave her to rest," Coltyn said, nudging Spike out the door.

"So can you help her heal faster?" Twilight asked, the door closing behind Coltyn.

"No, Twilight. I'm not a doctor. The ponies here are the best help she could get," Coltyn sighed, feeling like a broken record.

Twilight nodded, understanding his point. "Alright, I'll walk home with you. I'll see you girls later," Twilight called, as her friends scattered, everypony heading their separate ways.

***

The next day Coltyn began the long and tedious task of putting all the pieces of his puzzle together. He worked through the morning and into the afternoon. He used chalkboards to do his preliminary study and parchment when he had a solid piece; slowly the walls began to get covered with notes and formulas. An unexpected knock broke his concentration, and he put everything down and opened the door. Applebloom was there ready to learn some basic potion making.

"I'm ready to learn some potions and earn a cutie mark," Applebloom squealed, excitedly.

"I like your enthusiasm but we won't be making any potions. If I'm going to teach you, I'll do it from the beginning," Coltyn said, browsing the books in the study.

"So what's the beginning? Potions 101? The Beginners Guide to Potions?" Applebloom inquired.

"No, we start with Cooking for Beginners. This will teach you the language of potion recipes and your first task will be to brew a good cup of coffee," Coltyn smiled, walking into Twilight's kitchen. Coltyn sat behind the table and gathered all the tools required to make coffee; unground beans, a grinder, a filter over a carafe, and a kettle of water. "Now it's up to you. Follow the directions and brew your first potion."

Applebloom's face became determined as she opened the book, looked up the directions for coffee, and read them carefully. She placed the kettle on the stove and turned it to high heat to get the water hot. She took a scoop of beans and placed them in the grinder and slowly turned the crank with her hooves collecting the grounds in the filter. She gently patted down the ground coffee and put a pinch of salt into the carafe before placing the filter on top. When the kettle whistled she took it off the heat and let it cool for ten seconds before slowly pouring the water over the grounds, smiling as the dark liquid filled the carafe. As the last of the coffee drained from the filter, Applebloom removed the filter and poured a cup for Coltyn.

Coltyn took a sip from the steaming cup, smiling as the warming liquid rejuvenated his body. "Great job," Coltyn praised. "Now next time we will try something a little more complicated." Coltyn flipped through the book and stopped on a melon salad. "Study up on this recipe for tomorrow," Coltyn said, levitating the book down to Applebloom. She placed the bookmark on the page and galloped off to study. Coltyn took the hot carafe back to his study and with his coffee, worked long into the night.

***

Over the next week Coltyn engrossed himself in research, covering chalk boards with notes and tacking finished sheets to the walls around the room Twilight let him use. Spike walked into the study after being woken up at three in the morning and audibly sighed at the extensiveness of the clutter building in the room before turning an abrupt about-face, and heading back to bed. Coltyn took breaks from his research every afternoon to teach Applebloom the similarities between cooking and potion making. Applebloom was slowly getting the hang of some of the more complex recipes including cupcakes that tasted excellent, proving that her ability to follow the directions had improved.

By the end of the week, Coltyn had made considerable progress in his studies and began to feel the frustrating certainty that the answer was drawing near. He was sure he was on the brink of a real breakthrough. He took time off to join Twilight and Spike for dinner.

"I've really enjoyed the book about Hearth's Warming's origins," Twilight said, taking a bite of her sandwich.

"I'm glad you liked it," Coltyn smiled.

"I don't understand how three ponies could undo all the damage done by the windigos," Twilight pondered.

"Clover never really elaborated on what happened after the Fire of Friendship was lit. All I know is that after the fire was lit, the windigos retreated to the frozen north and haven't attempted to send all Equestria into an endless winter again," Coltyn recalled.

"Well the interesting history of Hearth's Warming made me wonder about the history of the other holidays. I just found a book on Hearts and Hooves day, which is tomorrow," Twilight blushed. "I was going to spend the day with Big Macintosh but he and Applejack are still repairing the south field that Flim and Flam destroyed. Fluttershy is busy with her critters and now that Rainbow Dash is out of the hospital, she's going to a Wonderbolts show. Rarity and Pinkie Pie are going to be loaded down with work so I have the day to myself."

"Sadly, I am deep into my research so I won't be taking part in any festivities. I think I'm close to the answer but it seems that every time I get close, it escapes my grasp," Coltyn grumbled, knocking his hooves together.

"I'm sure you'll get it this time, after all you have my library at your disposal and it hasn't failed to give me the answers I've sought," Twilight reassured.

"Thanks," Coltyn smiled. "It's just hard working on a single project for so long, one starts to wonder if there is an answer."

"Well sometimes you just have to believe, even if you don't understand it," Twilight admitted, thinking back to the first time she learned of Pinkie's Sixth Sense. "Believe you will get the answer and I'm sure you will."

"Thanks," Coltyn said, simply finishing his dinner before heading up to the study.

***

Coltyn rose early and began to draw everything together. Coltyn heard the front door open and close more than once while he worked, but didn't pay it any mind. Slowly, he began to realize the true horror behind the stone. He paced back and forth, going over every scrap of info but still coming to the same answers. Frustrated by his findings, his magic was starting to go wild as his pacing turned into random flash teleportation around the room. He didn't notice Twilight come into the study until she spoke.

"Um… Coltyn?" Twilight said, hesitantly.

"Oh… hi Twilight," Coltyn replied, teleporting over to a chalk board. "I just can't believe this! THIS is the secret that has eluded me! BARBARIC!"

"What? Coltyn, what are you talking about?"

Pausing, Coltyn pressed his hoof to the side of his head before turning to look at her. "Twilight, do you remember when I told you in my letters that I was following a lead that could mitigate the cost of complex magics? That there was an artifact that could effectively power even enormously complex and far reaching spells without needing material components like dragon's blood?"

"Yes…?"

"It's called the Alicorn Amulet. It's a Darksteel amulet with the Gem of the Archmage set into it. I was looking to make the gem and fuse it with the Darksteel flowing through my veins sense there is no available Darksteel but I will NOT do what need be done."

"I don't understand. Please explain," Twilight begged, calming Coltyn.

"Well, look here… and here… and here." He tapped the relevant passages on three different scrolls with his hoof. "In each of these texts I found references to the necessary resource to create the gem. They're languages so old that even I don't know more than a few words, but they're all used the same way, so when I put the results of all my research together and compared all the little scraps of data, from the various legends and myths, I found out a horrifying truth. This word, vitae – and this one, animus… they're both from the same dead language. The first means life, or life-force, and the other means spirit, or more accurately, soul. In each of these other references the words are different, but the explanation is the same. In order to create the Alicorn Amulet, the unicorn must 'harvest' the animus of other ponies. Do you understand?" Without waiting for an answer, Coltyn explained, in a choked voice, "In order to make the gem, the mage has to murder a massive number of ponies!"

Twilight gasped. "No! That can't be right. There must be another explanation."

Coltyn shook his head, dropping it low with a defeated sigh. "No, Twilight. There is no other explanation. The only way to reproduce the Alicorn Amulet, is to commit mass murder and steal the souls of all the ponies killed. There's no other method, and I certainly can't use this one."

"But what if-"

"No, Twilight, no buts. It's a dead end. The only other clue I've come across is a reference to brotherly love, and somehow, I doubt that's going to help much. It sounds too much like the old cliché 'Time heals all wounds.' Technically true, but not what I need."

"But you can't just be giving up? You've put so much into this! You told me you've been working on this research for years!"

"I'm not giving up, Twilight. But I think I'll have to explore other avenues. This one just seemed so… promising." He sighed. "I don't know. Maybe I'll find something in my grandfather's archives. It can't hurt to look."

Twilight gave him a curious look. "Where are they?"

Coltyn opened his mouth to respond, when their attention was drawn to the open window, by a loud – and very familiar – voice, calling, "Schmoopy Doo!"

Twilight raised her eyebrows, and trotted over to the window, her mouth dropping open as she watched Big Macintosh drag a house down the road. Coltyn watched Twilight's eye twitch as her magic flared; Coltyn responded by casting dispel magic. He quickly looked into her eyes. "Don't lose your temper! Let's find out what happened and go from there," Coltyn ordered.

"What happened?! He told me he was busy at the farm, which is why we didn't get together today; and now I find him bouncing off to see Schmoopy Doo, whoever that is!" Twilight exclaimed, stamping her hoof.

"Has he ever bounced down the street like that before?" Coltyn asked, seriously.

"Well of course not. That's why I don't get it! Who is this Schmoopy Doo he's going to go see?" Her face fell. "I just… I thought we had something special."

Coltyn breathed deeply, resisting the urge to roll his eyes in exasperation. "He is not acting like himself. We should find out why before you say or do something that you'll regret."

"But he…"

"Do you trust him?"

"Well of course I do! But… he –"

"Then don't jump to any rash conclusions."

Twilight snorted and allowed Coltyn to escort her out of the library. Following the trail left by the house, they made their way over to Carousel Boutique, where they came upon a scene that made both of them raise their eyebrows. They watched with bated breath as Cheerilee bowled over the three fillies in her way, leaping into a hole that Big Macintosh was trying to jump out of and colliding with him.

The Crusaders picked themselves up, walking back to the hole, and Applebloom wished, "Please be normal. Please be normal."

Coltyn upon hearing those words from Applebloom, he knew what happened and let out an aggravated snort as he realized that she had broken her promise.

The teacher's voice came out of the hole first. "Am I wearing a wedding veil?"

"Eyup."

"Are you sitting on a feather bed in a hole in the ground?"

"Eyup."

"Girls! Can you explain why I look like I'm getting married at the bottom of a pit?"

Twilight leaned over to Coltyn and muttered, "That's what I'd like to know."

"Patience."

Twilight and Coltyn waited and listened to the fillies' confession to Cheerilee. Twilight facehoofed, hearing that they brewed a love poison, knowing it was from the book she gave them. Twilight was relieved that Big Mac hadn't lied to her and found the girls' altruism sweet, albeit misplaced. When the girls turned to leave, Coltyn and Twilight stepped into the shadow of Berry Punch's house to avoid being spotted; they would deal with them later. Once the fillies were gone, the two of them approached the pit and set to helping Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee out of it.

"Need a hoof?" Coltyn asked, looking down into the pit.

"Yes, I daresay we do," Cheerilee said.

"Ok, let's lift that bed up and get them out of this hole. Ready, Twilight?" Coltyn asked. The purple unicorn nodded once, and closed her eyes, her horn lighting as she focused on a levitation spell. Coltyn cast a protective force field around the two Earth ponies as Twilight lifted them, and the feather bed, out of the pit and set them down gently on the ground.

Big Mac's eyes shrunk in worry and shame as he looked up at Twilight. He hung his head, trying to think of what to say. Twilight lifted Big Mac's head to look into his eyes. "It's ok. Coltyn and I heard the whole confession and I'm not mad at you." Big Mac just smiled. "Now three little wannabe matchmakers… they're another story."

"Are you alright, Miss?" Coltyn asked, helping Cheerilee off the bed.

"Yes. I want to thank you for helping us out," Cheerilee smiled gratefully at them.

"You're very welcome. However, I want to make sure there are no lingering side effects. May I ask you some questions?" Coltyn asked, lighting his horn.

"Of course."

"What do you remember?"

"The last thing I remember is sharing punch that the girls made with Big Mac. Then everything goes fuzzy and I can't seem to remember anything clearly."

"That makes sense. Most mind altering potions tend to have that effect."

"It's just weird having a blank space where there is just nothing."

"I understand. Don't worry about it too much," Coltyn smiled. "How about we all go do something to take our minds off this crazy day?"

"How about a picnic?" Twilight suggested. Then a wicked little smile spread across her face. "With a little payback." Big Mac raised an inquisitive eyebrow. Winking coyly at him, she explained. "Well why don't Coltyn and I go set up the picnic while you and Cheerilee go check on the girls. While you're there, you could pretend the potion didn't really wear off." Big Macintosh frowned.

Cheerilee looked intrigued. "What did you have in mind?"

"Oh you know, tell them you're going to have a picnic at the gazebo, call each other some cutesy nicknames, just scare them."

Coltyn couldn't help but chuckle at the playful malice of her plan. "That could be a very effective lesson to them about not meddling in other ponies' private lives. Although you should let them off the hook by tomorrow." Coltyn gave Twilight and Big Macintosh a serious look. "You two need to tell your friends about your relationship."

Cheerilee gasped in surprise. "Oh my goodness! I had no idea that you two were involved. I'm so sorry, Twilight."

Twilight shook her head. "Don't worry about it. It wasn't your fault. I suppose it is about time we stopped keeping it a secret." She looked Big Macintosh in the eyes. "We should tell Applejack and my other friends first. They might be hurt if they hear it from somepony else first."

"Eyup."

"Well, I think you two should get to Sweet Apple Acres and check on the girls while Twilight and I get things ready," Coltyn said, noticing the day fading.

"Oh! But what about the hole in the road? We can't just leave it that way. Somepony might get hurt," Miss Cheerilee objected.

Coltyn smiled. "We'll take care of that, too."

With no further objections, Big Macintosh and Cheerilee headed for Sweet Apple Acres. Coltyn looked at the hole. "I got this," Twilight said, lighting her horn. She levitated the pile of dirt that had been dumped beside the boutique and put it back into the hole, magically smoothing it over and tamping it flat. "There all fixed."

"Nicely done," Coltyn said, impressed. "Now let's get some food for that picnic." Coltyn and Twilight walked to Sugar Cube Corner, to get some sandwiches and other snacks. Heading out to the gazebo Coltyn noticed that something was bothering Twilight. She was walking more slowly than usual, looking intently at the ground as though deep in troubling thought. "What's worrying you?"

"I'm not sure how my friends will take the news of my relationship. I don't want to lose my best friends," Twilight said.

"If they are your friends they will support your personal choices. I don't think you have anything to worry about," Coltyn soothed.

"Maybe. I'm just…"

"Scared. Not as certain of your friends as you wish you were." Twilight nodded. "Trust your friends. They all seem the type to stand by their friends. No matter what," Coltyn smiled. Twilight nodded, smiling as she spotted Big Mac and Cheerilee returning from the farm.

The four of them chatted about the day and let the conversation go where it would. Just as the sun disappeared and the moon rose, Coltyn offered to walk Cheerilee home. She agreed, and they left Twilight and Big Mac alone for the evening. Coltyn and Cheerilee's walk home was quiet, as most of Ponyville was already shutdown for the night.

"Thanks for walking me home," Cheerilee smiled. "Would you like to come in?"

"Thank you very much. But I'm going to have to decline. I have urgent business to attend to and I must be off tonight," Coltyn said.

"Well I had a good time today, aside from the whole love poison fiasco," Cheerilee giggled. "You have a good night, Coltyn."

"You as well, Cheerilee," Coltyn said, turning to leave. "Have a good evening."

Coltyn didn't want to decline her offer but with more pressing matters demanding his time, he didn't have the luxury of indulging in personal affairs. He knew that he was closer than ever and more, he was certain that the answer lay somewhere in his grandfather's archives, in Canterlot.

Chapter 7: Preparations

Coltyn had taken Thunder Snow up on her offer and for the last month has been building a friendship with her and her friends. After getting to know Thunder Snow more he realized that it would take an immense amount of power to regrow Thunder Snow’s horn with ‘brotherly love’. Determined to find a solution, he was reading and had just come across a passage that gave him pause when his concentration was broken by the sound of hooves approaching. Looking to the door he wasn’t expecting to see a small squad of guards and Shining Armor enter the study.

“Is something wrong Captain Shining Armor?” Coltyn inquired.

“Yes. Princess Celestia would like to speak with you,” Shining Armor stated. “Please follow me.”

Coltyn looked at the nervous guards, slowly nodded and followed Shining Armor to Princess Celestia’s meeting hall. He was surprised to see Luna and Thunder Snow also in attendance. ‘This is bad,’ Coltyn thought as he bowed to the Princesses.

“Do you know why you are here?” Celestia asked.

Coltyn looked at the captains and princesses, all conveying an air of seriousness. “No, but I assume it’s something very bad.”

“You are correct,” Luna informed him. “One of my night guards has brought dire news.”

Coltyn turned his full attention on Shining Armor as the white stallion lifted a scroll and began reading. “The fall of the capitol will mark the beginning of a new age. The end is closer than you know.”

“This is serious. A direct threat to Canterlot will not be taken lightly,” Thunder Snow stated coldly.

“Do you know who would make such a threat?” Celestia asked.

Coltyn wasn’t about to reveal one of his greatest secrets. “No, I don’t. But why bring me in? Is this not a matter that is handled by the Royal Guard?”

“It is,” Shining Armor bit off, brusquely.

“However, I thought that given your talents of discovering information that you could aid in finding the pony who wrote this. Think of it as me testing you,” Celestia explained.

“I see. I would like the chance to redeem myself,” Coltyn said.

“However, until we discover the source of this threat we will be locking down the castle and library,” Luna said.

“Extra watches will be posted throughout Canterlot,” Shining Armor added.

“Aerial surveillance will be increased,” Thunder Snow continued.

“And I would ask you to not leave Canterlot,” Celestia finished. “I will be more at ease knowing where you are.”

Coltyn didn’t like the thought of not having access to the library but wasn’t about to argue. “I will comply,” Coltyn answered. “And maybe unravel this mystery.”

Celestia smiled slightly. “Very well. You may go, Coltyn.”

Coltyn bowed, then turned and made his way out of the castle. The last phrase he read echoed through his mind, ‘Destiny reveals itself when the time is right.’ “That isn’t helpful,” Coltyn muttered, annoyed. “I thought I was on the verge of the answer but now I’m stuck here with nothing.” He wandered back to his cart and began rereading books on rituals and circle magic. He made several diagrams but didn’t know how they would be useful. Annoyed he drew an herbal bath to help clear his mind and then went to sleep.

***

The next day, Coltyn found himself at loose ends and eventually just began to walk around Canterlot, listening for anything useful. He mostly overheard general gossip, including speculation about the sudden increase in guards and aerial patrols. When he passed by a jewelry shop and overheard the two clerks talking about Shining Armor buying an engagement ring two days ago, an idea occurred to him. He made his way to the café that the Guard Captain frequented with Thunder Snow and Cadence, hoping to find the other stallion. He was in luck, as Shining Armor was sitting at their usual table as Coltyn approached.

“May I join you?” Coltyn asked, walking up to Shining Armor.

“Sure, I’m waiting for Cadence and Thunder Snow,” Shining Armor told him.

“Then I will be quick. I think you should propose to Cadence, you two seem to be a great couple,” Coltyn said, plainly.

Shining Armor looked inquisitively at him. “I don’t think that now is the best time for such things.”

“Sometimes what might seem like a bad time is actually the best time. Keep the little ponies distracted so that others can focus on bigger issues without causing a mass panic,” Coltyn offered. Coltyn saw the conflict in Shining Armor. “Of course it’s your decision, I just think there is no time like the present,” Coltyn said, leaving the Captain to wait for his company to arrive.

***

Coltyn had been working in his cart for a week, somewhat broken up by the occasional visit from Thunder Snow, after her shift, when the message box on his table began to glow. Opening it he retrieved the letter and read it.

‘Dear Coltyn;

I have been informed of my brother’s wedding. My friends and I are going to be helping with preparations and I was hoping that we might catch up. We will be on the first train out tomorrow. I need to talk to my brother first but I would like to get together afterwards. I’ll see you soon.

Your friend,

Twilight Sparkle’

“Who was that?” Thunder Snow asked.

“Twilight Sparkle. Shining Amor is marrying Princess Cadence,” Coltyn said, rolling the scroll back up.

“I know,” Thunder Snow smiled. “He proposed yesterday at lunch. I was wondering how much longer he was going to wait. They make a good couple.”

“That they do,” Coltyn said, waving goodbye to Thunder Snow. “I’ll talk to you later.”

Coltyn was excited to see Twilight again and have somepony else to talk to who was as knowledgeable about magic. He was also happy that Shining Armor went through with his proposal. Coltyn spent the rest of the night trying to figure out a way to use ‘brotherly love’ but nothing was coming together.

The next day he made his way to the train station, but was stopped by the guards. Not wanting to cause a problem, he waited for the passengers to depart. Twilight was the first out of the station but her determination blinded her and she walked past Coltyn without stopping. Coltyn wondered what had her so focused when the other five ponies and Spike exited the station.

“Hi, again!” Pinkie Pie shouted, pouncing on Coltyn, startling him with her hug.

“Hello,” Coltyn smiled, then pushed Pinkie back gently and nodded to the rest of the group, before asking, “What’s got Twilight so uptight?”

“She’s a little steamed that her brother didn’t tell her directly that he was gettin’ married,” Applejack explained, as they began to walk into the city.

“I see. That would explain why she didn’t seem to notice me when she walked by.”

“Yes, it would. She didn’t take the news at all well,” Rarity agreed.

“I’m sure she just wants to get more info. She doesn’t like not having the whole story,” Spike defended.

“I see,” Coltyn said.

“Well, it was nice seein’ ya, Coltyn, but we got to get to work if we want to get this weddin’ together on time,” Applejack said.

“Alright. I’ll let you all get to work; I’ve got my own business to attend to. I’ll see you all later,” Coltyn smiled, turning down a side street.

He made is way over to the Café knowing that Thunder Snow would be having a break soon. He waited for an hour but there was no sign of Thunder Snow. Pulling his bits on the table he saw Twilight walk by now less determined but more upset. “Hey, Twilight. How have you been?” Coltyn greeted.

“Oh, hi Coltyn. I’ve got to make sure that everything comes together for the wedding,” Twilight trailed off.

“I’m sure your friends can handle things for a while. You look like you need to get something off your chest,” Coltyn said, offering a seat. “Now what’s wrong?”

“My brother is marrying my foal-sitter and didn’t even come to tell me. I had to find out from the invitation.”

“Well he proposed only three days ago. He has been here doing his job which doesn’t really allow him to go to Ponyville to tell you.”

“Well it was ok till I met Cadence again. There’s something different about her. She is acting weird and she didn’t even remember the little dance we made,” Twilight said.

“Well, sometimes as we grow up we forget the fun from our childhood,” Coltyn offered.

“No, Cadence is the princess of love, she could never forget something that gave me so much joy,” Twilight retorted.

“Well preparing to get married and the increased security might be affecting her. She’s probably stressed, so try not to take it too hard.”

“I’ll try not to,” Twilight said, getting up. “I’ve got to get over to the kitchen and check up on Applejack.”

“That’s fine. It was nice to catch up,” Coltyn smiled as Twilight left still frustrated. ‘If anypony would have insight on changes in Cadence’s behavior it would be Thunder Snow,’ Coltyn thought, leaving the bits for his bill on the table.

Coltyn wandered the streets of Canterlot looking for Thunder Snow. He searched for a few hours and finally found one of the Pegasus Guards. “Excuse me,” Coltyn approached. “I was wondering where Captain Thunder Snow was.”

“She is on duty,” the guard replied, stiffly.

“I knew that. Where is she?” Coltyn asked.

“That isn’t your concern, citizen,” the guard simply stated, remaining at his post.

“Well thanks,” Coltyn said annoyed. Heading back to his cart he decided to scry for Thunder Snow.

Coltyn pulled out his crystal ball and setting it on a gold holder he looked deep into the ball. Focusing a clear image of Thunder Snow in his mind, he searched. After a few minutes he saw Thunder Snow, she seemed to be flying with four other guards. Not wanting to startle her while she was flying, Coltyn waited for her to land before calling out to her.

“Hello, Thunder Snow,” Coltyn whispered into the ball.

Thunder Snow looked around confused. “Who’s there?” She demanded, looking around confused.

“Are you alright, Captain?” one of her guards asked.

“It’s Coltyn. I’m using a spell to communicate with you,” Coltyn explained, quickly.

“I’m fine,” Thunder Snow addressed her guards. “I’m getting a message from Coltyn.”

“Where in Equestria are you?” Coltyn asked.

“I’m just about to cross Everfree. You’re supposed to be in Canterlot,” Thunder Snow said, realizing he was using magic.

“I’m in Canterlot. Twilight told me that Cadence was acting weird and I was wondering if you noticed anything to confirm her suspicions before you left.”

“Well this morning, Shining Armor told me to take a squad and do a distant sweep to see if we could find out more about this threat. It was top priority as he needed to stay and continue his protection spell so I left before seeing Cadence. Last time I saw her was when Shining Armor proposed and she wasn’t acting strange then.”

“Thanks for your help. Something might be going on so try not to wander to far from Canterlot – I might need your help.”

“I’ll try. Keep me informed of what’s happening at home.”

“Not a problem,” Coltyn said, ending the spell.

Coltyn pondered the events and something wasn’t sitting right. Thunder Snow is gone on a mission away from Canterlot, Twilight was upset about Cadence’s behavior and Shining Armor is continually reinforcing his spell. He couldn’t put his hoof on it but something was off and it all revolved around Shining Armor, his friends, and family. He needed to talk to Shining Armor and Cadence and hopefully find out what’s going on.

***

Coltyn spent the next day gathering reactions from Twilight’s friends who all insisted that Princess Mi Amore Cadenza was fine and that Twilight was just being protective of her brother. He didn’t share their enthusiasm but without any evidence he couldn’t approach Princess Celestia. He tried to talk with Princess Cadence, but she brushed him off, saying she had more preparations to check on.

The day before the final rehearsal Coltyn was lucky to find Shining Armor leaving his post for the day.

“Hello, Shining Armor,” Coltyn greeted.

“Hello,” Shining Armor replied. “What can I help you with?”

“Well I was hoping that you and I could talk over a drink,” Coltyn offered, slowing his pace.

“That’s nice but I need to get home. I’ve got a big day tomorrow.”

“That is actually something I wanted to talk about,” Coltyn said seriously.

“But you’re the one who said I should ask her in the first place.”

“I just want to know one thing. Has she changed?” Coltyn asked, looking him in the eye.

Shining Armor looked curiously at Coltyn. “No, she seems fine to me. A little more stressed but pulling together a wedding on such short notice will do that.”

“Fair enough,” Coltyn nodded, noticing a bar across the road. “Come on, I want to buy you a drink to congratulate you.”

Shining Armor shrugged, following Coltyn to the entrance.

“I thought you were coming straight home?” Princess Mi Amore Cadenza called out from the nearby crossroads, before Shining Armor and Coltyn could enter.

“Oh… Hi, sweetie. Coltyn just offered me a drink…”

“And you were going to skip out on all the work that needs to be done by tonight?” Princess Cadenza reprimanded.

“That’s alright, Shining Armor. I’ll take you for a drink another time,” Coltyn smiled. “Have a good evening,” Coltyn turned and walked into the bar.

Coltyn took his drink and sat out on the patio, lost in thought. ‘Cadence is acting more aggressive, but that could easily be explained because pulling a wedding together this quickly is stressful. It’s strange though, that she didn’t seem to have the same grace she normally exhibited. Something is off about her, but she doesn’t seem to be under any spells that could have changed her.’ Coltyn continued to ponder how or what could have changed her. The moon was high in the sky when he noticed Twilight walk by. Coltyn called her over and invited her to join him for a while.

“I’m starting to think you’re right about Cadence,” Coltyn started.

“Of course I was!” Twilight exclaimed. “She was horrible to my friends and they just call it nerves and think I’m being over protective. It’s like she’s brainwashing them.”

“Unfortunately feelings without proof aren’t enough to convince Princess Celestia. There just doesn’t seem to be any hard evidence so nothing can be done,” Coltyn admitted.

“I was just on my way to see my brother because this has me really worried not to mention that he and my friends don’t seem to notice her bad behavior.”

“Well then, I’ll let you go. Try to stay calm and don’t jump to any rash conclusions and do something you’ll regret.”

“I won’t,” Twilight said with a small smile.

Coltyn paid his bill and began wandering the streets, the strange events of the past week replaying in his mind. Something about Cadence’s behavior wasn’t sitting right and it might have something to do with the threat to Canterlot, ‘But how?’ That question had been plaguing him since Princess Celestia asked him to look into the matter.

“Howdy!”

The sudden greeting snapped Coltyn from his pondering, turning to see Applejack. “Hey there, Applejack. What’s happening?”

“Well, I’d hate to impose,” Applejack said, poking the ground with her hoof. “But I’ve got to be at the rehearsal tomorrow and my sister and her friends are going to need to get their dresses. I love my brother but he has as much love of fashion as I do. So I was hoping that you might lend a hoof to make sure Rarity doesn’t go crazy about this and that not matching.”

Coltyn smiled. “I’ll see what I can do. Besides I would like to catch up with my little apprentice.”

“Thank you kindly, Coltyn,” she smiled, tipping her hat. “Their train arrives at nine in the morning.”

“I’ll be there,” Coltyn nodded as she departed. He smiled at the thought of seeing Applebloom again. Walking into his cart a thought crossed his mind and he pulled out his crystal ball. The mist in the ball cleared as Thunder Snow came into view.

“Hello, Thunder Snow,” Coltyn called.

“Oh, hey Coltyn. What’s up?” Thunder Snow asked.

“I was wondering when you would be getting back to Canterlot.”

“I won’t be back until the night before the wedding. We’re over Dodge Junction now and as long as we don’t run into any signs of trouble, I’ll be back for the wedding,” Thunder Snow said, relieved to soon be done with the reconnaissance mission.

“I was wondering if you would join us. I’ve been asked to take the flower girls in to get their dresses,” Coltyn said. “I’ll see you at the wedding.”

“If I make it back in time, I’ll come along, but I can’t promise. If I don’t make it before the wedding, I’ll see you then,” Thunder Snow replied, continuing her reconnaissance.

***

Coltyn stood on the platform, waiting for the train carrying Applebloom and her friends. The clock in the station began chiming nine as the train whistle sounded announcing its arrival. The train slowed down coming to a stop with a loud release of steam setting the brakes and with another push of air, the doors opened. Coltyn didn’t have to wait long as the yellow filly pounced at him in a hug.

“I missed you too, Applebloom,” Coltyn said, pulling the filly from his neck.

Her friends came galloping and with Applebloom began bouncing around him unable to contain their excitement. Coltyn noticed Big Macintosh step off the train loaded down with all three fillies’ baggage.

“Hello, Big Macintosh,” Coltyn greeted. Big Macintosh nodded as the fillies finally calmed a bit. “Why don’t you head to the castle and unload the girls’ things. You can meet us at the Boutique afterwards.” Another nod and Coltyn and Big Macintosh went their separate ways.

“So are we going to see my sister?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“No, we are going to the Best of the Best Boutique. Rarity is busy at the rehearsal, but Hoity Toity has the best seamstresses at his disposal,” Coltyn explained, exiting the train station.

“We’re going to have to stand around while they poke and prod us aren’t we?” Scootaloo asked unenthused.

“Most likely, having dresses made is a time consuming and invasive process,” Coltyn chuckled as Scootaloo stuck her tongue out, making a gagging noise. “So how’s school been for you all?”

“Oh, where to start,” Applebloom began. “I had this brilliant idea for us to get our cutie marks as journalists. But our Editor in Chief, Diamond Tiara, turned us into her gossip columnists.”

“Things just got way out of hoof faster than we realized,” Scootaloo added.

“Yeah, before we knew it, we didn’t have any friends and were shunned by everypony,” Sweetie Belle continued.

“Luckily we were able to repair most of the damage we did. But Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon have increased their teasing since Miss Cheerilee demoted Diamond Tiara,” Applebloom said.

“Yeah, but seeing her slip and get covered in ink was worth it,” Scootaloo grinned. “It took her almost a week to get it all out of her coat.”

Coltyn chuckled with the three fillies for a moment before his face took on a more serious expression, and he commented, “I still don’t understand how foals can pick on those who have blank flanks when they were once blank themselves.” Coltyn looked up noticing they arrived. “Well, here we are.”

The four passed through the extravagant glass doors, a tinkling bell announcing their arrival. Sweetie Belle noticed some familiar designs from Rarity’s shop, while Applebloom and Scootaloo were mesmerized by the extravagant and elaborate dresses on display.

“Ah, there are the three little flower fillies,” Hoity Toity exclaimed, coming from the back. “Rarity sent the designs for your dresses with preliminary measurements. Now each of you will be with one of my seamstresses – Needle, Spool, Thread,” Hoity Toity called. In an instant three unicorn mares stood at attention. “Take these young fillies for their final fitting.” Each of the three took one of the fillies into a different room to begin the fitting. “Now I was expecting a large red stallion to be with you all but I suppose he’ll be along shortly. I’ll take care of getting you fitted, first.”

Coltyn was taken off guard by his comment but before he could react he was pushed into another room. He was quickly measured and soon found himself in a black tuxedo with a red collar, a golden silk band across the middle, red cuffs with golden cufflinks, and a light blue belt with a golden latch.

“No, this is a total faux pas,” Hoity Toity exclaimed. “The bold colors don’t fit at all with your natural coloring.” Hoity Toity pondered for a minute before clapping his hooves together. In a flash, a male unicorn with a sewing machine cutie mark was standing next to Coltyn. “Fetch me the azure, purple, and silver fabrics, both silk and cotton.” He paused for an instant, and added, “I’ll need the indigo velvet as well. I think that will be just the thing for this stately looking stallion.” With a quick nod the pony was gone. “I do apologize, but it would be terribly remiss of me to send you to a wedding in something that doesn’t fit.”

Coltyn raised an eyebrow, annoyed. “But this jacket fits fine.”

“For your frame yes but not you. The clothes and the wearer must be as one otherwise it looks terrible,” Hoity Toity explained. “And I will not have any customer leave my shop in anything less than the finest haute couture.”

Coltyn shrugged agreeably. The world of fashion had always confused him and the ponies that followed the fashion path always seemed to speak a different language. Soon Coltyn was being covered by the different fabrics as Hoity Toity prattled on about color, cut, and style. Eventually, the fashion pony seemed satisfied with his fussing, and before Coltyn’s eyes, the tailor made a magnificent coat of indigo velvet trimmed with violet silk and silver buttons. Looking in the mirror, Coltyn saw the high class stallion he could have been had he made different choices in the past.

Coltyn walked out of the dressing room to find the three fillies waiting for him. Their dresses were light pink with purple flower accents. Sweetie Belle’s had more layers to extend her figure and leave room for her more bushy tail. Applebloom’s was a straight dress that pulled in tight at the flank with a few ruffles on the bottom with the purple accents. Scootaloo’s flowed from her back to the floor in a gentle curve extending her body and had the end ruffled with purple flower accents. He was amazed at how pretty they looked… right up until Applebloom tried to walk, catching her hoof on the edge of her dress, and face-planting into the floor.

“It’s harder than it looks isn’t it?” Coltyn chuckled, walking into the main foyer.

“Yeah, I don’t know how Rarity does it,” Sweetie Belle insisted.

“Well I guess…” Coltyn began, interrupted by the door bell ringing as Big Macintosh walked in.

“Excellent,” Hoity Toity exclaimed. “Come with me, we have so much work to do.” Big Macintosh was escorted back to one of the fitting rooms by the same pony that helped Coltyn.

“Well, that was interesting,” Coltyn said, looking toward the fitting room. “I’ll show you how to walk in those dresses,” Coltyn said, turning back to the girls.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle looked confused but Applebloom was really worried. “I don’t think this is going to end well,” Applebloom stated warily.

“I’m sure it will be fine,” Coltyn encouraged. “Now you will need to hold yourselves in perfect posture,” Coltyn explained, demonstrating by holding his head high with his neck parallel to the floor. “Your front hooves must not stray farther apart than your shoulders and your hind hooves have to be next to one another. Now to move is more like dancing than walking, no hoof moves with another and you shouldn’t need any more space than a tile.” Coltyn demonstrated, gracefully walking a line of tiles without looking down. “Now why don’t you all give it a try?”

The girls lined up to try walking again when an aggravated Hoity Toity came from the fitting room. “That stallion is stubborn as mule and without a lick of fashion sense,” Hoity Toity exclaimed.

Coltyn quickly stuck his hoof in Applebloom’s mouth. “What’s wrong?” he asked, not wanting to cause a scene.

“He simply refuses to take that eye sore of a fashion disaster yoke off his neck. I will not have anypony wearing such a monstrosity to this wedding,” Hoity Toity explained.

Coltyn grabbed Applebloom with his magic and levitated her off the ground so she couldn’t attack the fashion designer. “I’ll have a talk with him,” Coltyn said, looking at Applebloom. “So just stay here and work on walking in those dresses.”

Applebloom snorted in disgust but slowly walked back to her friends who tried to cheer her up. Coltyn on the other hoof had to get Big Macintosh to cooperate. He walked into the fitting room where Big Macintosh sat stoically silent.

“I understand that you don’t want to remove your yoke,” Coltyn began.

“Eeyep.”

“Would you care to tell me why?”

“Nope.”

Coltyn studied Big Macintosh’s usual responses with diligence. “I’m sorry. I know something that holds so much meaning is hard to set aside for anypony. But if for nopony else, do it for Twilight.”

Big Macintosh turned, raising an eyebrow at Coltyn. Coltyn smiled gently; Big Macintosh turned to a mirror, letting out a sigh and slowly began to lift the yoke from his neck. The fur where the yoke sat was matted and worn showing that he only took it off to bathe and sleep.

“I’ll have Applebloom hold onto this until your done getting fitted.” Big Macintosh nodded. Coltyn levitated the yoke out to the main foyer and laid it down next to Applebloom. “Hold on to this for your brother.” Applebloom nodded. “Hoity Toity, I think he will be more cooperative. Just don’t push it too far and don’t mention the yoke.” Hoity Toity was skeptical but took his tailor back into the fitting room.

Coltyn watched the girls get to the point of not tripping on their dresses every step but were far from perfect. After forty minutes Big Macintosh walked out of the fitting area. He was dressed in a form fitted black jacket with golden collar and bordered with red lattes and buttons to accent. Big Macintosh was uncomfortable but he looked amazing.

“Another tres chic design. I knew he had the stature of greatness; he just needed the right couture,” Hoity Toity said proudly. “Now everything is in order. The wedding will start at three o’clock tomorrow; be ready no later than one.”

Coltyn nodded as he and Big Macintosh took the girls back to the castle. “I’ll see you all tomorrow,” Coltyn said, leaving them at the gate and heading back to his cart.

Chapter 9: Bitter Truths

Everypony turned to Coltyn, who cringed at the utterance of that word. The black mare dropped her hood and looked around the room. Celestia was encased in a cocoon being drained of her love, while everypony else was held down by the changeling’s slime.

“Looks like everypony is here.” The black mare smiled harshly. “Excellent work, Chrysalis.”

“Thank you, Midnight Vengeance,” Chrysalis smiled, bowing slightly. “With everypony caught up in wedding planning they didn’t realize that Twilight was correct in doubting me,” Chrysalis said, lifting Twilight’s head to look into her eyes.

Applejack turned to Twilight. “We’re sorry Twilight. We should have listened to you.”

The others apologized as Twilight turned her head back to Chrysalis. “It’s not your fault. She fooled everypony.”

“Which is why I freed her from Tartarus. I needed a creature that could naturally change forms,” Midnight Vengeance explained, walking up to Coltyn. “Isn’t it wonderful? You get to witness the dream set down by mother so long ago come true,” Midnight exclaimed, her horn glowing. “The world shrouded in darkness!” The moon rose and centered itself in front of the sun causing an eerie red glow to fall on Equestria.

“You know nothing of her dream,” Coltyn retorted. “The world free from war and tyranny was her dream. We won! Though it took time to see the victory; we were victorious none the less.” Coltyn hung his head. “Though it seems that the darkness has fully consumed you,” Coltyn said, looking into his daughter’s crimson, dragon-like eyes.

Midnight broke into maniacal laughter. “Consumed? No dear father, I welcomed the darkness. It gave me power and showed me the way to make the true dream mother had a reality. You on the other hoof betrayed everything you once held dear: your friends, your mate, me,” Midnight bellowed. “You even murdered the only pony who stood by me.” She turned to Twilight. “So maybe I should do the same to you.”

“No!” Coltyn screamed. “I’m the one who did you wrong. Don’t punish them for my mistakes,” Coltyn pleaded.

“Hmm? Very well, I won’t kill her,” Midnight said, her magic grabbing Twilight. “She’ll kill you.”

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Or I kill your friends. Starting with her,” Midnight said, holding a spear above Fluttershy’s head.

“Do it, Twilight. Your friends’ lives are more valuable than mine,” Coltyn smiled.

Twilight lifted a spear and leveled it to Coltyn’s chest. Tears streamed down her face. “I can’t do this. I can’t do this,” Twilight repeated, the spear shaking.

Tired of waiting, Midnight threw Twilight aside and with her magic she pushed the spear into Coltyn’s chest. Coltyn smiled. “Love freely given can conquer the darkness.” With his final words his eyes fluttered shut, his life blood running down the spear. The ponies gasped as tears formed in every eye.

Midnight began to laugh maniacally as Chrysalis looked over the changelings in the city. Twilight found herself next to Cadance and quickly freed her from the slime. “Go to him while you have a chance.”

Cadance nodded and ran to Shining Armor. Tears fell as she embraced him. Her outpouring sparked her magic, and her horn lit as a small heart floated in front of him. His eyes returned to normal as he shook his head. “Huh? Where? What? Is the wedding over?” Shining Armor asked confused.

“It’s all over!” Midnight sneered.

“Your spell! Perform your spell!” Twilight shouted.

“What good would that do? My changelings roam free,” Chrysalis retorted.

“No!” Shining Armor said, concentrating on his magic. His horn flickered but nothing happened. “It’s no use. I don’t have the strength to repel them.”

Cadance, remembering Coltyn’s words, turned to Shining Armor. “My love will give you strength.”

“Preposterous,” Midnight scoffed, turning to a window.

“What a lovely but absolutely ridiculous sentiment,” Chrysalis mocked.

Cadance and Shining Armor looked at each other, faces set with determination, as their horns touched and glowed together. A small sphere formed at the tips of their horns growing to encircle them both. Everypony looked on in awe until a voice called out.

“Open your hearts to them. Power the spell!” Coltyn shouted, freeing himself from the wall.

Coltyn saw the opportunity he had waited for and quickly, with Twilight’s help, freed everypony who was stuck. The love spell began to draw the ponies in as Coltyn looked at Midnight. “I need you,” Coltyn snarled, grabbing her with his magic. Coltyn’s horn lit and a magic circle appeared under Cadance and Shining Armor, who had floated up above everypony’s head. The spell put Midnight across from Coltyn and Thunder Snow across from Celestia at the cardinal directions. Power flowed through the circle starting with Coltyn on the south and moving right through Applejack, Fluttershy, Thunder Snow, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Midnight Vengeance, Princess Luna, Rarity, Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, and Big Macintosh. A square formed connecting Coltyn, Princess Celestia, Thunder Snow and Midnight Vengeance. Coltyn took on Celestia’s broken horn, concentrating on repairing it, even as Midnight Vengeance lost her horn and Thunder Snow grew one. With the spell done, Coltyn released the power of the circle into the love spell, causing a heart shaped explosion as the barrier forced the changelings out of not only Canterlot, but beyond the boundaries of Equestria and all the way to the edge of the known world.

Midnight, Celestia, Thunder Snow and Coltyn fell to the ground. Coltyn cringed in pain, his horn split to the skull. Looking around he saw that his gamble had paid off. Then, a choked sound drew his eyes to his daughter, and he felt as though his heart were being crushed in a vise.

Everypony tensed as Midnight spoke, reaching for Princess Luna. “I… I tried… moth… er,” she gasped, her last breath escaping her lips with a soft, lost sounding whinny.

Coltyn couldn’t hold back the tears, dropping his head between his front hooves and covering his face in an attempt to hide his weeping, as Celestia got to her hooves with Twilight’s help. “I’m fine. You and your friends have a real wedding to put together,” Princess Celestia said, coaxing her student to take her friends out of the room.

Twilight nodded. “Come on girls, we have a lot of work to do,” Twilight said, leading her friends out of the hall.

Luna approached Coltyn, kneeling beside him and wrapping her wing around the distraught stallion. Coltyn looked up to the Princess. “It wasn’t supposed to be like this,” Coltyn choked, his throat tight with grief.

Luna looked at the lifeless body of Midnight. “She was born in darkness. She couldn’t survive in the light,” Luna offered, understanding why he wept.

“No matter how much she went astray, I… I still loved her,” Coltyn cried. “I should have been able to save her!”

“’Tis only natural to mourn your child,” Luna said gently, lifting his head to force him to meet her eyes. She smiled, even as he noticed she also had tears misting her eyes. “I remember how proud you were when she was born.” Coltyn looked at Luna confused. “Seeing you in your armor sparked the awakening of my memories. I have many questions as – I’m sure – do the others.”

Coltyn looked at Thunder Snow, who was running her hoof along her new horn. “Would somepony please explain to me why there is a horn sticking out of my head?”

Cadance was staring, wide eyed, at the blue mare. Then, she turned to look at Celestia. “Mother? What’s happening?”

Celestia let out a long sigh. “A miracle.” She turned to Coltyn. “I was told that the damage to her horn was too extensive, and that it would be impossible to salvage it.” Turning to Thunder Snow, she continued, “You were foalnapped on the day you were born, and when you were returned to me, your horn had been snapped off. The best doctors in Equestria examined you, and told me that letting you keep what remained of your horn could cause you serious harm as you grew. Allowing it to be removed was the hardest decision I ever made.” She paused, taking a deep breath. “I gave you up to your foster parents. Let them raise you as a pegasus because I was told that you would never get your horn back, and I wanted you to have the most normal life possible.”

“A normal life?” Thunder Snow snarled. “My life was a nightmare.” Turning to Cadance. “Did you know? Is that why you didn’t join in the teasing I received daily.”

“No! I didn’t know any of this,” Cadance replied, paling.

Thunder Snow turned back to Celestia. “Have you any idea of the hell I went through?”

Celestia lowered her head. “Yes, I couldn’t do anything without risking having you discovered.”

“Would that have been so terrible? If you would have been honest with everypony I wouldn’t have had to suffer the ridicule that was heaped on me every day. My special talent,” she sneered, “is summoning freak snow storms. Even in the summertime. When I was a filly in Vanhoover, living with the ponies I called my parents, it was possible to hide the occasional accident, but here, in Canterlot? If you wanted me far away, why did you make us move back here just in time for me to go to school with cruel, bullying unicorns that thought it was the most fun thing in their lives to torment me, calling me names and attacking me whenever they thought they could get away with it? I’ve had to fight for every bit of respect I’ve ever had, and now I find out it was ALL a LIE?” As Thunder Snow raged, the room gradually darkened, and a cold wind began to blow. Her eyes were flashing, her nostrils flaring, and as she shouted, rumbling came from outside. “You LET me be treated like a freak, when all you would have needed to do to stop my pain was to TELL THE TRUTH!” Suddenly, a great blue bolt of lightning flashed, striking Celestia and knocking her off her hooves.

The deafening thunder clap echoed throughout the chamber causing everypony to cringe. Everypony stood in silent shock at what they had just witnessed. Cadance ran to her mother, tears in her eye as Princess Luna addressed Thunder Snow. “Come walk with me. You will do nopony any good in a blind rage,” Luna offered.

Thunder Snow snorted, rolling her eyes, before following her evident aunt out of the Grand Hall. Coltyn slowly got up and walked over to Celestia, Shining Armor, and Cadance. “Is she alright?” Coltyn asked, rubbing his throbbing head.

“Why would she do this? After all we’ve been through, how could she turn on us?” Cadance asked openly.

“She just realized everything she knew was a lie. She is going to need time,” Coltyn answered. “She is going to need you all more than ever before.” Coltyn saw the small scorch mark on Celestia’s chest. “We should move her to her chambers for some rest.”

Shining Armor lifted Celestia onto his back. “What about that one?” Shining Armor asked, motioning towards Midnight’s lifeless body.

Breathing heavily, Coltyn replied in a tight voice. “I will see to her burial.”

Shining Armor and Cadance looked at each other, confused. “You want to give her a burial?” Shining Armor asked.

“I owe her that much,” Coltyn said, looking up to the heavens. “And to lay the burden of my past to rest.”

Cadance and Shining Armor exchanged another look, and quietly left to get Celestia to her chamber. Coltyn grabbed one of the white banners with his mouth and wrapped Midnight Vengeance’s body in the cloth. He lifted her body onto his back and slowly trudged out of the hall. As he was making his way down to the halls, he met up with Luna and Twilight.

“How’s Thunder Snow?” Coltyn asked wearily.

“She is out flying while she tries to figure out what to do,” Luna explained, with a sigh. “She is understandably confused, and feels betrayed. It will take some time.”

“Umm… Coltyn?” Twilight began.

“Yes?”

“Your horn. It’s… well…”

“Split. I know. I fixed Celestia’s horn by taking the damage onto my own.”

“Does it… hurt?” Twilight asked, cautiously.

“It’s nothing headache potions can’t help,” Coltyn sighed, clutching his head as a wave of pain hit him. “Lots of potions. It will heal… eventually.”

“So what are you doing with her?” Luna asked, tilting her horn toward Midnight’s body, sidestepping nervously for a moment.

“I want to lay her to rest, with your permission of course,” Coltyn asked, lowering his head.

“Where?” Luna asked.

“I was thinking of returning her to Everfree, to the ancient palace where she was born. It just seems… right,” Coltyn said.

Luna looked down for a long moment, and then lifted her gaze to meet Coltyn’s. “I would… choose to be present when she is laid to rest. It’s only fitting.”

Coltyn smiled slightly. “You would be welcome. I would teleport us there but my magic isn’t stable with my horn like this.”

“I can get us there and back,” Twilight offered. “I’ve been studying that augmentation circle you taught me for long distance teleportation, and I know I can get all of us back to Ponyville. The ruined castle is only a short distance from there.”

Coltyn looked to Luna who nodded. “Whenever you’re ready,” Coltyn said, smiling weakly.

With a flash of Twilight’s horn the three ponies were standing at the edge of Everfree Forest. Coltyn slowly and silently walked into the forest with Twilight and Luna flanking him. The somber mood among the ponies was reflected as the forest seemed to sing, mourning the passing of a creature of darkness. Approaching the ruins, Twilight couldn’t help but notice that they were being followed. Looking back, she noticed bats, crows, timberwolves, manticores, and further back more shapes she couldn’t distinguish moving through the shadows.

“I think we’re in trouble,” Twilight whispered to Coltyn, panic evident in her voice.

“They are just here to pay respects to the Dark Princess. They won’t hurt you,” Coltyn said, continuing forward.

A nod from Luna helped ease her worry, but Twilight stayed on guard, just in case. The ruins came into view and they saw that a few creatures had built a funeral pyre on the top stair to the castle. Accompanied by Luna and Twilight, Coltyn walked up to the pyre and laid Midnight upon the wooden frame. Coltyn then walked in front of the pyre and looked out to the gathered creatures.

“Fellow creatures of darkness and the night, we gather here to mourn the passing of the Princess of Darkness, Midnight Eclipse. She showed great determination in trying to fulfill Nightmare Moon’s dream for Equestria. To her misfortune, her plan failed and she paid the ultimate price. Though we mourn her passing, we also hope that she has found peace in what lies beyond this life.” Coltyn then walked behind the pyre, addressing Twilight and Luna. “Light the pyre, please.”

Twilight and Luna’s horns lit as small sparks ignited the tinder, a gentle breeze fanning the flames. Once the fire was established, Coltyn intoned:

“This fire in the night,
Bright pyre light,
Take this soul of dark,
And welcome it to your ark.
Cleanse the body and soul,
Make her finally whole,
Let her shine forever in the sky,
Star of a mournful good-bye.
Creatures of darkness now free,
No more your call to heed,
Your service is fulfilled,
Freed from our will.
Go now and live your life,
Fellow creatures of the night.”

Coltyn looked down at his daughter’s body engulfed by flames. “Good-bye, my Midnight Eclipse.”

The three ponies watched with silent tears streaking their cheeks dark as the body burned. The fire began to die as Coltyn, Princess Luna, and Twilight slowly left the forest. Upon reaching the forest edge, Twilight had many questions and wanted answers.

“Coltyn,” Twilight said, getting his attention. “What are you?”

Coltyn sighed. “That is a long story. We should return to Canterlot, I’m sure many wish to hear this tale.” Coltyn looked to Twilight, with a quick flash of her horn, the three of them were standing outside of the castle.

“I will see to preparations and we shall meet tomorrow and hopefully everypony’s questions will be answered,” Luna stated, taking wing.

“Could you help me back to my cart?” Coltyn asked wearily. “I’ve used a lot of energy tod…” Coltyn trailed off as his legs locked and his head fell.

Twilight cringed at the pain-filled whinnies Coltyn made as his exhausted body stood in the street. She lifted him gently with her magic and took him up to an empty guest room. She laid Coltyn on the bed, and as she covered him with the blankets the pain seemed to lessen and the whinnies turned into the heavy, even breathing of deep slumber.

*****

Coltyn woke as the sun shone on his face; the smell of fresh tea filled the air. He rolled to his feet, his head pounding as he grabbed the cup and after a few blows took a sip. It was rejuvenating and seemed to have some pain relieving plants mixed in. He slowly enjoyed the unexpected tea. As he realized that he was not in his cart but still in the castle, a knock came at the door.

“It’s time to revisit history,” Celestia’s voice called from the other side.

“I hope this doesn’t end in tragedy,” Coltyn said, opening the door.

“We must have faith that they can forgive the sins of our pasts so we can all work to a brighter future.” Celestia smiled as the two walked to the meeting chamber. “I also want to thank you for your dedication in finding a way to repair my daughter’s horn.”

“You’re welcome,” Coltyn said as they approached the door. He took a deep breath and let out a long sigh. Coltyn pushed open the door to see Twilight and her friends, Big Macintosh, Luna, Thunder Snow, Cadance, and Shining Armor sitting around a large circular table.

“Thank you all for coming. We are here to answer your questions. Who would like to start?” Celestia asked.

Twilight slowly raised her hoof and with a nod from Princess Celestia asked. “Coltyn, what are you? I saw you impaled by a spear. You should be dead, not sitting here answering questions.”

“I understand your bewilderment,” Coltyn began. “A thousand years ago I looked for a way to avoid death. In dark and depraved magic I found my answer, a jet black stone from the other side of the world known as Darksteel. With a mixture of magic and alchemy I produced a potion that gave me what I sought, unending life.” Coltyn looked up to his split horn and pointed at it. “Even wounds like this will heal in a week or so.”

“So…” Thunder Snow frowned. “Why have there been so many secrets?”

Celestia sighed. “The answer to that is a long and complex story. It was the night after you and Princess Cadance were born that you disappeared. I had every available hoof looking for you.” Celestia turned to Coltyn. “I think you can fill in some blanks for us.”

Coltyn nodded. “I had returned to Canterlot in hopes of taking advantage of the weakened state Celestia was in.”

“What do you mean by ‘taking advantage of’?” Shining Armor asked.

Coltyn let out a long sigh. “I planned to kill her.” Looks of horror spread across everypony’s face. “But when I overheard the guards talking about finding Celestia’s lost foal, I knew I needed to find that foal. After the end of the war between Celestia and her sister, my own infant foal was gone from me, and I understood the pain of losing a child. I quickly tracked the foalnappers to Manehatten, where they’d gone to ground. I didn’t expect to find my daughter there.”

“Your daughter?” Cadance asked.

“Her name was Midnight Eclipse or as she called herself yesterday, Midnight Vengeance. She was born of darkness and pride, consumed by vengeance. I looked in to see Celestia’s stolen filly lying on the floor, horn broken and quivering in pain,” Coltyn voice carried the torment of this memory. “In a split second decision, I chose to give up my own vengeance in favor of saving your life, and took you away from her.” Coltyn looked guiltily at Thunder Snow. “With only a small knowledge of healing magic I knew there was nothing I could do but seal your wound and return you to Celestia. I promised myself to return with a cure but all these years of study failed to reveal to me the answer… until yesterday. I’d been finding references to the power of ‘brotherly love’ to heal great harm, but it wasn’t until the moment that your own twin and her beloved created their spell of pure love that I realized how I could use love to correct the harm done so long ago. My daughter took your horn, and her sacrifice returned it to you.”

“I see… I think,” Thunder Snow said, beginning to understand.

“After you were returned,” Celestia began. “I knew that there would be so many difficulties for a Princess without magic, and I wished for you to have a happy childhood, not a lifelong string of disappointments as you watched your younger sister be groomed to inherit the birthright that should have been yours as the eldest. So I did what I thought was best, I gave you up to my most trusted guard and his wife. I did it because I loved you, and because I wanted you to have the best opportunity possible to grow up into the best pegasus you could be, regardless of your birth,” Celestia said with a tear in her eye. “We changed your name from Belle de Wintra to Thunder Snow, something more befitting a pegasus. No matter your name or circumstances, however, I wanted to be close to you, which is why I had you and your foster parents return to Canterlot for your schooling. I know your life has been hard and I wish I could have saved you from it but I had to keep my distance.”

“So why didn’t you tell me I was an alicorn, Coltyn?” Thunder Snow asked.

“If I did you wouldn’t have believed me, and if you did believe me and I had failed, you would be disappointed. I didn’t tell you because I wasn’t sure myself if any attempts to heal you would work.”

“So why did Midnight attack Canterlot?” Shining Armor asked. “What was her motive?”

“Revenge for the death of her mother, Nightmare Moon,” Luna replied, her chin dropping sadly. The room went eerily silent as the ponies processed what she said. “I took the name as an alias but time and war gave that alias life. I lost myself to the rage and hate it harbored and would not be satisfied until I ruled as queen, Coltyn as my king, and our princess to carry the line.”

“So what was this war about?” Twilight asked. “How much of history is a lie?”

“Please don’t think ill of me,” Princess Celestia said. “Luna and I had been at war with the griffons over land and resources. It was actually Coltyn and his two friends that forced the griffons to surrender. I tried to be reasonable and fair in the conditions but some of the noble houses weren’t pleased. I started to fear losing my position, my power. I enacted more laws restricting everypony’s freedoms because I didn’t want to lose the power I had won. I didn’t even trust my dear sister, I became a tyrant.” Celestia had tears running down her cheeks.

“I couldn’t stand what she was doing so in secret I gathered Coltyn and his friends to overthrow my sister.” Luna frowned. “I knew she wouldn’t just give up so I built an army headed by Grand Strategist Golden Blade, Captain of the Shadowbolts Fire Mane, and Master Mage Coltyn Pendragon. For two years the fighting raged, we were pushed back to the ruins in the Everfree Forest. It was Coltyn’s decision to try to hinder the royal guard’s advance.”

Coltyn sighed. “I did something that nopony should have been able to do. I infused the entire forest with wild magic, freeing it forever from pony control. But it drained me to the point of unconsciousness; I awoke inside the Canterlot Dungeon. I survived several days of interrogation and torture to find that the whole army had come to save me and been destroyed for their efforts.”

“Torture?” Twilight asked. “Who could do a thing like that to another pony?”

“I did,” Celestia said softly. The ponies were shocked to hear this. “I needed information, so I used any means necessary to get it.”

Twilight was at a loss, heartsick at hearing the truth of what her beloved mentor did in the past. “How? How can this be? What about the histories?” Twilight stammered, betrayal choking her as she asked.

“Twilight, please understand that she only did what she had to do. War is not pleasant and will force even the most noble and honorable ponies to do things that they wouldn’t normally do,” Coltyn stated.

Celestia and Luna nodded. “When I faced Nightmare Moon, she was easily my equal that day, and may well have beaten me,” Celestia said. “So I used my backup plan, summoned the Elements of Harmony and banished her to the moon. However, in a split second I saw my sister under that sinister form; I never had so many regrets as I did in that one moment. The elements turned to stone once I realized what I had done, and then they vanished. I tracked the elements back to the castle in Everfree but they rejected me, in the process making it clear to me that only those who truly represent their spirit could wield their power.”

“So that’s why you sent me to Ponyville, to collect the Elements of Harmony?” Twilight asked, feeling used and betrayed.

“That was part of it,” Celestia admitted. “I also knew that Nightmare Moon would be returning. Even in a weakened state she would have been too powerful for a normal pony to take on. Once I admitted you to my school I began to look for the ponies that held the spirit the other elements. Fortunately, most of them already lived in Ponyville, I only had to make sure Rainbow Dash was assigned as Ponyville’s weather pony. All the pieces were in place, I just had to wait to make the first move.”

“So what were you doing during this time, Coltyn?” Thunder Snow asked, quizzically.

“I was hiding. But after Celestia stopped looking for me I began to learn magic from others. I even traveled to the Zebra’s homeland to learn their shamanistic ways,” Coltyn said. “Ultimately, I was developing my magic in order to slay Celestia… until you were foalnapped. Then I searched for a way to undo the damage done by Midnight Eclipse. I went to Ponyville after hearing about Discord’s escape. After helping Twilight and her friends I continued my studies, and after a few more dead leads and learning how to make a Gem of the Archmage, I came here.”

“This is our past,” Celestia said. “Our mistakes have been paid for and we learned from them.”

“The sins of our past forever remembered,” Luna said.

“Our true selves revealed. The darkness now brought to light,” Coltyn finished.

“We are ponies who have made many mistakes on a grand scale, no more, no less,” Celestia said, turning to Thunder Snow. “Since that time we have all made efforts to make amends, but the past can never be undone. We can only endeavor to learn from the past in order to build a better future. If you are willing, I would begin the process of formalizing your status as a princess and return that which is yours by birthright.”

“I’ve never had anything given to me. I had to earn everything with my own hooves,” Thunder Snow said plainly. “I am Thunder Snow, Captain of the Pegasus Guard.” She pointed to her new horn. “This doesn’t change anything.”

Celestia frowned, unhappy with the response, but willing to accept it. “Very well, if anypony wishes to consult further we will be in our rooms.” She turned to go, then looked at her elder child once more and added, “Should you change your mind, I will never deny you, my daughter.” In the ensuing silence, Celestia took her leave.

Chapter 10: Take Two

Coltyn retired to his cart, exhausted. As the effects of the medicinal tea wore off, his head began to throb with pain. He gathered the ingredients for his best pain relief potion and set to making a large amount for the days to come.

Twilight set in and he heard the sound of rain hitting the roof. The sad notes they played as they hit the roof seemed appropriate given the events of the last couple of days. Coltyn worked on his brew into the night and began to measure it into separate containers. He put the last of his brew away as a knock came on his door. Thunder Snow was standing there with a dark blue cloak covering her entire body. Coltyn quickly welcomed her in from the weather.

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” Coltyn asked, curiously.

“I just need to get away for a while,” Thunder Snow stated, annoyed.

“Would you like to talk about it?” Coltyn asked, warming a kettle of tea.

The silence hung thick in the air, only broken by the whistle of the kettle. Coltyn poured two cups of tea and brought them to the small table where Thunder Snow was sitting. Thunder Snow picked up the tea, gently blowing on it before taking a sip. She set the cup down then, and stared dully into it.

“I’m sure you didn’t come out here in this weather to have tea,” Coltyn said, taking a sip from his cup. “What troubles you?”

Thunder Snow sighed, “Everypony has been acting differently. My guards seem confused as to how to address me,” she explained, irritation evident in her voice. “Now my best friend, who I just discovered is my sister, wants me to be her bridesmaid! It’s just too much.”

Coltyn looked into Thunder Snow’s eyes, a lump formed in his throat. “I’m… sorry.”

“Look, I know why you did it but I just wish somepony would have told me something before changing my entire life,” Thunder Snow stated. “Not to mention, I feel like everypony thinks that I should be able to use magic when I have never used it.”

“I could aid you learning how to use magic,” Coltyn sighed, pulling a book from the shelf. “Make up for dumping this whole, ‘you’re an alicorn,’ thing on your head. But you will need to start at square one,” Coltyn stated, pushing the book toward Thunder Snow.

“I was afraid of that. It’s just so hard to swallow the fact that everything about my existence – up until two days ago – was a lie,” Thunder Snow snorted, taking another sip of tea.

“Not everything was a lie,” Coltyn replied, gently. “You are the Captain of the Pegasus Guard, an excellent soldier, and a great friend.” He smiled. “I think it would help ease your mind if you talked to Princess Celestia. I’m sure she would be willing to do almost anything to have you by her side, the same could be said for your sister as well.”

“I’ll have to think about it. Thank you for listening and for the book,” Thunder Snow said, pulling on her cloak, the book tucked under her wing.

“You’re welcome. My door is always open for you,” Coltyn said, waving good-bye.

Coltyn smiled as he closed the door. He knew that even though there was much work ahead of him, his past was finally being forgiven. Turning back inside to clean up from his potion making, he blinked when a scroll with the royal seal materialized and landed on his table. Opening the letter, he read:

‘Coltyn Pendragon;

Your presence is requested. Please come to the castle as soon as you get this.

Princess Celestia of Equestria’

Coltyn looked at the note and noticed that even with the elegant brush work the note was written in a hurry. Coltyn took another dose of his headache potion and put a dose into the pocket of his cloak to take with him. “This is going to be a long night,” Coltyn sighed, walking out the door.

The walk to the castle was uneventful, until he arrived at the gate where two guards quickly escorted him to Princess Celestia’s private meeting chamber. The smaller room was lightly decorated with a small set of pillows on the floor and a raised platform with a golden representation of Celestia’s cutie mark inlaid. The princess was sitting rigidly on the platform, lost in her thoughts, staring out into the weeping sky before Coltyn announced himself.

“You summoned me, Princess?” Coltyn asked, bowing.

Celestia turned her head to see Coltyn before letting her head drift to the right. “I’m losing her.” Celestia’s voice was tight with distress.

“Thunder Snow?” Coltyn asked, quizzically. “She may not warm up to the whole princess thing…”

“No, Twilight,” Celestia interrupted. “She locked herself in her room and hasn’t come out since she finished getting everypony set on tasks. I was hoping that you would go and talk to her on my behalf. I have a letter from her that I think can set you on the path to reasoning with her.”

“I can’t guarantee anything but I will see what I can do,” Coltyn said, accepting the proffered scroll. He bowed and headed to Twilight’s room.

Coltyn wasn’t surprised to see Spike sitting outside Twilight’s room, a worried expression on his face.

“Coltyn!” Spike exclaimed. “Boy, am I glad to see you. You’ve got to help, Twilight is…”

“I know,” Coltyn interrupted. “Princess Celestia asked me to help.”

Spike sighed with relief as Coltyn turned to the door and knocked.

“Twilight?” Coltyn called, only to hear silence. “Twilight, I know you’re in there. Your magic is emanating like a beacon on a dark night.”

The silence continued. Coltyn pulled out the scroll he was given and began to read it aloud.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

My friends and I all learned an important lesson this week, never judge a book by its cover. Someone may look unusual or funny or scary, but you have to look past that and learn who they are inside. Real friends don’t care what your cover is; it’s the contents of a pony that count and a good friend like a good book is something that will last forever.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle”

Coltyn’s ears perked up hearing hoof-steps behind the door, Twilight had begun pacing.

“Princess Celestia, just like everypony in the world, has to make mistakes. I know it’s hard to consider the idea that the mare you admired could have such a dark past. After the whole love potion fiasco which loosed Discord and the conflict with the dragons and griffons, anypony would feel scared. She was doing what she thought was right, but her mistake was not listening to the advice of her sister. Miscommunication and lack of trust led to the civil war, and ever since Luna’s banishment, Celestia has worked to improve communication. Lots of problems sprung up over the last thousand years but she quelled each by listening to all sides, pondering the evidence, and drawing reasonable conclusions.”

Twilight’s magic had begun to quiet, her mind turning over Coltyn’s words.

“If nothing else, know that she trusts you.”

“But how can I trust her?” Twilight asked, harshly.

“Why can’t you? You did what was asked of you because you trusted her judgment. She wanted you to know the truth, which is painful. That was another life and she has forged herself into the ruler we ponies need. Please let me in and we can discuss this like ponies.”

There was a long pause before the door clicked and slowly opened. Twilight looked an utter mess; her mane was in disarray and the bags under her eyes showed that she was tired. Spike followed behind Coltyn as the door was closed again.

“How can history be both true and false? I don’t understand,” Twilight sighed, pacing.

“That depends on who you ask. After the Griffon War, ponies saw us – warriors I mean – as heroes, but griffons saw us as vermin who just got lucky.”

“So which is it?” Twilight asked.

“It’s both. One side sees the good while the other sees the bad. Then history writers get their hooves on information about given events and blow it out of proportion. It’s all perspective; I’m sure you’ve had moments you regretted. The trick is to learn from the past so as to avoid making the same mistakes in the future.”

Twilight looked down, sighing. “Yes, I think I understand now.”

“Good.” Coltyn smiled warmly at her. “Now you have a lot to do to reorganize the wedding.”

“I should get started then. Spike, prepare to make a checklist,” Twilight smiled at her assistant.

Spike quickly produced a quill and parchment and furiously began writing as Twilight listed the things that needed to be done. Coltyn, having snapped Twilight out of her depression, left the two to their work.

***

The recovery of the castle and Canterlot proceeded quickly. Twilight organized the necessary repairs on the Grand Hall and the garden where the reception was going to be held before getting down to the task of redecorating and setting the other preparations in motion. Coltyn was asked to watch over repairs while Twilight continued her rounds. He was not much help to the workers; his horn was healing but his magic was still unpredictable. He stayed out of the way as the construction workers finished the last of the repairs to the hall.

With repairs complete, Coltyn left to check on the progress of the garden but was met by Princess Celestia outside the hall.

“Hello, Princess Celestia,” Coltyn greeted.

“Ah, Coltyn, I have been looking for you. Where are you heading?”

“I was on my way out to the gardens to check on the repairs.”

“Do you mind if I accompany you? I have something I would like to discuss,” Celestia stated, walking in the direction of the garden.

“It would be a pleasure,” Coltyn smiled, joining the princess.

“First, I wish to thank you for restoring Thunder Snow’s horn.”

“It was the least I could do. It was my fault that she lost it in the first place.”

Celestia looked at him. “You seem to blame yourself for the acts of others. Were you not the one who sealed her magic, saved her life, and returned her to me?”

“Well… yes,” Coltyn muttered.

“And did you not thereafter devote all of your time to finding a way to undo what had been done and of course, eventually succeed?”

Coltyn nodded.

“Then I forgive you,” Celestia stated. “I talked with Luna and she agrees that your wealth of knowledge and skills are rare and valuable. We would like to offer you a position as an advisor to us.”

Coltyn stopped. “You want me to be an advisor?”

“Yes,” Celestia plainly stated. “You have on numerous occasions shown your loyalty to Equestria and the ponies. You defended me and even healed the damage I received.”

“I do what needs to be done,” Coltyn respectfully said.

“That is why I am asking this of you. I know it’s a big decision, so I will give you until the wedding to give me your answer.”

“Thank you,” Coltyn smiled, approaching the doorway to the garden. “On a somewhat related note, you may want to do something about Thunder Snow’s training, Princess. Thunder Snow may have her horn but she is no more than a newborn filly in her knowledge of using it.”

“So you are offering to be her tutor?” Celestia asked quizzically.

“I’ve built a friendship with her and would be more effective at guiding her in the ways of magic than putting her through the training that young unicorns receive might, owing to her age.” Coltyn let his head fall to the right. “I gave her a book on the mechanics of unicorn magic when she came over last night.”

Celestia thought about the prospect, he was the most learned mage in her kingdom, and he could well be the best possible choice of teacher for her daughter. “It seems we both have important changes to consider. I will consult with Thunder Snow and let you know what we’ve decided before the wedding.”

Coltyn nodded. “That will do. Princess Celestia, I feel I should mention a concern Thunder Snow brought to my attention.”

She cocked her head. “Go on.”

He took a deep breath, and explained, “She came to see me last night with a personal concern.” He hesitated, and then sighed. “She was most discomfited by her pegasus guards not knowing how to address her, whether to call her captain or princess. She took great pride in the position she earned for herself amongst Canterlot society, and feels… cheated, or perhaps insulted? At least, she seemed somewhat offended that they were treating her differently simply because she’d suddenly grown a horn. I believe that if you make too much of her status as your daughter, and fail to make her see that you have not forgotten her own real accomplishments, you may drive her away.”

Celestia frowned. “I see. I hadn’t realized that she might be upset by being treated as the princess she was born to be. I will have to think carefully about that. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.”

Coltyn smiled. “I do what I can, Princess.”

She smiled. “I’m beginning to understand just how true that is, Coltyn Pendragon. Until later.”

Coltyn bowed formally, and waited as the princess took her leave before returning his attention to the repairs with a lighter heart.

***

The day before the wedding Coltyn’s horn had almost fully reformed from the trauma but his magic was still weak. He was grooming himself when a summons appeared. Reading it over, he quickly gathered himself and headed for the castle. Coltyn was brought to one of the small chambers where Luna and Celestia were waiting.

“You summoned me, Princess,” Coltyn said, bowing.

“Yes,” Luna began. “Have you considered our offer of becoming our advisor?”

“I have,” Coltyn stated, rising. “It would be an honor to serve you both once again.”

“Very well, we will take care of the formalities later,” Celestia said. “We have a matter of Princess Wintra’s coronation to deal with and I would like you to stay as a witness.”

Coltyn nodded and on queue the doors opened and Thunder Snow walked in. She trotted up and bowed, “You wish to see me, your highness?”

“Yes,” Celestia began. “With your horn restored it is only right that you are given back your birthright and name, Princess Belle de Wintra.”

“I appreciate the offer but I don’t want a new name. I had to work hard for what I have and I prefer not to take handouts,” Thunder Snow replied respectfully.

“It’s because of your hard work that we give you your birthright back,” Luna stated plainly.

“I will not give up everything I earned to become somepony else,” Thunder Snow argued stubbornly.

“Thunder Snow,” Celestia snapped. “This is neither about your pride and accomplishments nor about my failures. This is who you were born to be. It is your duty to Equestria to take up your responsibilities and stand beside me as my daughter and heir.”

Thunder Snow recoiled, startled by her mother’s sharp tone. “I’m no princess, I’m a soldier,” she said sheepishly. “I don’t know anything about being a princess.”

“That is why we ask for help,” Celestia replied, understandingly. “You will remain at your station as Captain until Shining Armor returns from his honeymoon. Then you will receive any training you need to perform your new duties.”

Thunder Snow bowed, “As you wish, your Majesty. If you don’t mind, however, might I make one request? I would like to be called Wintra Thunder Snow.”

Celestia nodded. “It does sound nice. I will have Princess Cadance announce you at her wedding and we’ll have your official coronation after Shining Armor’s return.”

“Of course,” Thunder Snow bowed, turned, and left the hall.

“That went better than expected,” Luna smiled at her sister.

“But she does have a point,” Celestia frowned. “She doesn’t know the duties and responsibilities of being a princess.”

“Actually, she might be surprised to realize how much she does already know, simply from being associated with the royal household for most of her life. But if it helps, I will assist her in adjusting to the best of my ability,” Coltyn offered.

“I’m sure that Princess Cadance will be willing to aid in her acclimation to her new role, as well. And of course, she will have us for guidance at any time she should require it,” Luna added.

“Thank you both,” Celestia said, rising from her seat.

Celestia left the room leaving Coltyn and Luna alone.

“It amazes me how strong she is,” Luna stated.

“She had to endure a thousand years by herself. She didn’t even consider having foals until Cadance and Thunder Snow,” Coltyn informed.

“I would inquire… what of you? Are you still drawn to the darkness that once consumed me?” Luna asked – her tone colored with concern.

“No, Princess. I laid that to rest when you allowed me the opportunity to say good-bye,” Coltyn frowned. “Nightmare Moon was my first love and there will always be a place in my heart for my memories of her. She is part of my past and I will remember her, but I can’t live in the past. I must look to the future,” he smiled.

“Wise words from a wise pony,” Luna smiled. “You have gained much wisdom over the course of your many years, and that is why I asked for you to join us as our advisor.”

“I’m honored by your praise. I never thought of myself as wise because of the many mistakes I’ve made,” Coltyn demurred.

“True wisdom springs not from being perfect, but from accepting one’s imperfections and learning from mistakes. Trust me, I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t believe you could handle the task. Now I must go and get some rest before the day is over.”

“Of course, Princess Luna,” Coltyn bowed, turning and leaving the hall to prepare for tomorrow.

***

The day of the wedding finally dawned, the entire castle was buzzing with activity. Food was being taken down to the gardens, pegasi were clearing some clouds that had moved in overnight, and hundreds of little details were being taken care of by the staff. Coltyn made his way to the dressing room which also was alive with activity. He could hear the idle chatting of Twilight and her friends along with the three young fillies hoping to get their flower tossing cutie marks. Coltyn smiled; the entire atmosphere was filled with joy and excitement.

“Coltyn?” Shining Armor’s voice called from the other side of the curtain.

Coltyn slide the curtain aside, Shining Armor was already dressed. “Yes?”

“I was asked to inform you that you will be standing up as one of my groomsponies,” Shining Armor said seriously.

“I’m flattered but I don’t see it as my place in such an occasion,” Coltyn politely deferred.

“It’s a personal request from Princess Wintra Thunder Snow, but if you’re sure I will inform her of your declination of her request.”

Coltyn’s face flushed slightly. “Well I wouldn’t want to disappoint the princess,” he hurriedly said, his voice cracking slightly. “It would be an honor to participate in such a momentous occasion.”

Shining Armor smiled. “You’ll need to be at the entrance to the hall in thirty minutes.”

“I’ll be there,” Coltyn promised, and watched thoughtfully as Shining Armor left the room.

‘What was that?’ Coltyn thought, placing a hoof on his chest. ‘My heart felt so tight at the thought of disappointing Thunder Snow.’ Coltyn shook his head. ‘My heart may be falling but I must stay strong and let her make the first move.’ Steeling himself once more, he made his way down to the hall entrance.

Everypony in the wedding group was gathered and talking amongst themselves. The only ponies missing were Thunder Snow and Cadance. Coltyn arrived as the doors opened to let the groom enter with Twilight, Big Macintosh, Spike, and Coltyn. They took their places, Twilight quickly adjusting Shining Armor’s chest piece. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna walked into the hall from a side door and took their places in the center. With a slight nod from Princess Celestia Fluttershy’s songbird choir sang the wedding march, the doors opened, and Twilight’s five friends approached the dais and took their places. Thunder Snow preceded the three fillies, who danced down the aisle, skipping and strewing flower petals before the bride. Thunder Snow and the fillies went off to the side as Cadance stood next to her groom.

“Mares and gentlecolts,” Princess Celestia began. “We are gathered here today to witness the union of the real Princess Cadance and Shining Armor. Their commitment is clear and the power of their love is undeniable.” She turned to Shining Armor. “Do you Shining Armor take Princess Cadance to be your wedded wife, to have and to hold, through good times and bad, for as long as you live?”

“I do,” Shining Armor replied without hesitation.

Princess Celestia nodded and turned to Princess Cadance. “Do you Princess Cadance take Shining Armor as your wedded husband, to have and to hold, for richer or poorer, for as long as you live?”

“I do,” Princess Cadance replied, a tear of joy in her eye.

Princess Celestia smiled turning to Spike. “May we have the rings please?” Spike presented the two rings upon the pillow. She slid the rings on the newlywed’s horns announcing, “I now pronounce you Stallion and Mare.”

Applause rung through the hall, bells chimed, the newlyweds proceeded to the balcony and before the crowd of ponies outside shared their first kiss as husband and wife. Rainbow Dash sprung from the balcony and above the city performed her Sonic Rainboom. The crowd hushed as Princess Cadance looked out over the gathered ponies.

“Thank you for coming,” Cadance smiled. “It’s an honor to see so many gathered for this celebration. I have joyous news to share with all of you. The tragic events of the recent past have brought to us an unexpected reward. I, after all these years, have been reunited with my lost twin sister. Many of you may know her as the Captain of the Canterlot Pegasus Guard, my sister and best friend, Princess Wintra Thunder Snow.”

Thunder Snow was gently nudged forward to stand beside Cadance. The roar of approval and stamping of hooves made her a bit more at ease as she waved scanning the crowd. She noticed that the high class ponies weren’t as excited as the majority of the others. Her eyes then fell upon two ponies, one she knew from having to be present at high class affairs, Jet Set, and the tormenter of her foalhood, Upper Crust. The pair gaped at her in horror. Thunder Snow took in the look of appalled dismay from Upper Crust and felt all her long-standing, pent up frustrations swelling inside her.

Coltyn noticed the buildup of magic in Thunder Snow but Princess Celestia acted before he could, drawing away the wild power her daughter was generating. The sudden pull caused Thunder Snow to rub her head. She gave one last wave to the gathered ponies before retreating back into the castle. Coltyn exchanged a look with Princess Celestia, and they turned and followed the distressed mare.
“That was close,” Princess Celestia said gently. After a moment, she asked, “Would you mind telling me what set you off?”

“I’m sorry, Princess. I noticed my former tormentor from school in the crowd,” Thunder Snow replied. “I thought I’d gotten past letting her make me angry years ago. I guess I just lost focus.”

“I see. Well, we’ll have to work on keeping that from happening again. I’m going to task Coltyn with guiding you in the ways of magic and learning to control it,” Celestia informed the two.

“It would be an honor,” Coltyn smiled, turning to Thunder Snow. “That is, if you wish.”

Thunder Snow blushed slightly at Coltyn’s charming response. “If I’m to learn quickly, it should be from the best, shouldn’t it?”

Now Coltyn was the one blushing. Celestia smiled, “Good. You can begin tomorrow.”

“Yeah, because tonight we’re going to party ‘til we can’t stand,” Pinkie Pie exclaimed from the doorway of the anteroom the three had withdrawn into.

The rest of the wedding party had gathered nearby, and there was an amused air to the group as they followed the pink party pony out to the reception. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna pardoned themselves briefly, as they needed to set the sun and raise the moon. Lovely music filled the gardens with a soft, emotional atmosphere as Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor walked into the center. The two looked deep into each other’s eyes before wrapping their heads around each other and gently swaying to the music.

Celestia and Luna descended, watching the new couple dancing with not a care in the world. Coltyn stood next to Thunder Snow. “It’s a rare sight to see two ponies so drawn to each other.”

“Maybe it was just meant to be, and no force in Equestria could stop their union,” Thunder Snow said, with a note of envy in her voice.

Coltyn looked at how the couple moved as one. “Yes, I do think that it was destiny.”

The slow music faded as an anxious Pinkie Pie dove over the DJ station and pulled from behind it the famous DJ – Pon3, known to her friends and family as Vinyl Scratch. She slid a record onto the turntable as Pinkie Pie tossed a microphone to Twilight, who began singing. The energetic music set everypony to dancing. With a little nudging, Coltyn even got Thunder Snow to join him on the dance floor. Coltyn and Thunder Snow danced, ate, and drank throughout the night. Cadance and Shining Armor boarded their carriage and, just before it took off, Cadance leaned out and with a heave threw her bouquet. Thunder Snow wasn’t expecting it, but when the bouquet came flying at her, she reached up and caught it, simply to keep it from hitting her in the face.

“Congratulations on catching the bouquet,” Coltyn said, smiling.

“If I didn’t it would have hit me,” Thunder Snow chided. “I still don’t get why mares get so worked up over catching these.”

“Supposedly it’s a sign that you’ll meet your true love and get married,” Coltyn chuckled. “Silly but that is the way with traditions sometimes.”

“Mm-hmm. Well, it’s getting late and I have to be up early,” Thunder Snow yawned.

“May I escort you home?” Coltyn offered.

“I would be glad of the company,” Thunder Snow smiled, walking toward her home.

The two walked in silence, enjoying the quiet night that had differed from the bright festivities from before. They approached her home and Thunder Snow opened the door with her hoof, stopped and thought for a second. “It’s quite a walk back to your cart from here. You could rest on the couch tonight if you like,” Thunder Snow offered.

“I would gladly accept,” Coltyn said, smiling. The day had been long and he wanted to rest.

Coltyn wiped his hooves and proceeded to the soft inviting couch. Thunder Snow made her way to the stair case that led to her room.

“Good night,” Thunder Snow said, before entering her room.

“Good night,” Coltyn replied, drifting to sleep.

Chapter 11: Teachings

Coltyn woke in a familiar looking home, looking around he noticed the room he was in belonged to a colt from the color and general clutter of toys. It didn’t take him long to realize this was his room. He knew that it couldn’t be after having sold the place and hearing of the numerous buildings built in its place over the centuries, but here it was all the same. Curious, he headed out down the hall and it was like walking through an expansive display of his past.

Pictures of him graduating school, his last good-bye before heading off to join the army, him proudly displaying his armor, all hung as a testament to him. Then he saw pictures of scenes nopony could have taken pictures of, the lost look he held upon finding his mutilated parents, his ‘convincing’ the griffons to surrender, his success with his immortality potion, the proud soldier standing next to Nightmare Moon, the loving father at his child’s birth, his torment by Celestia. Pain struck in his heart. “These are my memories,” he breathed.

Coltyn continued the journey through is past. His escape and self-imposed banishment, living with a zebra tribe and learning their ways in magic, developing devastatingly powerful killing magic, Thunder Snow. He looked long and hard at the picture of himself standing before his daughter and her friend standing above the tiny injured foal. That was the moment that all the hate, anger, and loathing for Princess Celestia vanished.

Coltyn then noticed a glow down the hall. The light was on and there were ponies talking, familiar ponies. Coltyn walked into the familiar dining room to see his mother, father, and grandfather. Their idle chatter stopped as his mother galloped to him, and threw her forelegs around him.

“I’m so proud of you,” his mother cried, hugging him with sobs of joy.

“We all are,” his father added, putting his hoof on Coltyn’s shoulder.

“But how are you here?” Coltyn asked, befuddled at the sudden family reunion.

“Well they’re here because they wanted to see the stallion you grew up to be,” Starswirl replied. “But I’m here on a more personal task. You have found the element of magic,” Coltyn nodded. “And she holds the key to finishing my last great work. It’s missing something that is locked in her very being and she will be called to make a great sacrifice to have it surface. Once she is deemed ready you must not interfere and you must be vague in her ultimate task.”

“But how will I know when she is ready?” Coltyn asked, quizzically.

“Lucky for you, you’re just the messenger. The Princesses are the ones who will make that final call, but the first challenge is already determined. Fate has chosen her opponent and he is not one to be taken lightly,” Starswirl warned.

“What can you tell me? I will make sure she is ready and can triumph over this opponent,” Coltyn prodded, impatiently.

Starswirl shook his head.

“Coltyn?”

“Our time is up,” Starswirl smiled, fading away. “Good luck.”

“Grandfather!” Coltyn exclaimed, sitting up on the couch in Thunder Snow’s living room. Letting out a frustrated snort, he laid back down only to look Thunder Snow in the eyes. “Yaaah!” he shrieked, surprised to see her.

“I didn’t think I’d startle you that much,” Thunder Snow scoffed.

“Sorry,” he grimaced slightly, and explained, “You woke me from an intense dream.”

“Evidently. I didn’t see you bring this book in with you.”

Her comment drew his attention to a book that had been lying on the small table beside the couch she’d let him use the previous night. He blinked at the sight of his grandfather’s cutie mark emblazoned on the cover. “I didn’t,” Coltyn said, looking at the book.

Thunder Snow looked at him quizzically. “What is it about?”

Flipping through the book, he smiled at the familiar quill strokes of his grandfather’s unique script before getting to the last pages. There was no title or description; only an attempt, from what Coltyn could tell, to change destinies. “I need to get this to the princesses,” he mumbled, gathering himself to leave only to have Thunder Snow block the door.

“You wake up in my house with a mysterious book, flip through it, and want to just waltz out without explaining? I don’t think so,” Thunder Snow informed, frowning at Coltyn.

Coltyn stood frozen opening his mouth to speak before closing it. “It’s a request from my grandfather.” Thunder Snow’s expression of annoyance fell to a blank stare. “This is one of Twilight’s tests,” Coltyn acknowledged. “Something is coming and I don’t know what, who, or why,” Coltyn sighed.

“She shouldn’t face something that nopony knows anything about. She isn’t that grown up yet,” Thunder Snow replied. “That sounds more like a job for the Royal Guard.”

“I don’t disagree, I’d rather ponies that were trained handle this, but without more information all I can do is inform Princess Celestia and hope,” Coltyn smiled.

“Keep me informed, something doesn’t set right about all this,” Thunder Snow said, frowning.

“Of course, I will meet you at my cart after lunch to begin your magic training.”

“Alright, I’ll see you then.” Thunder Snow agreed, moving aside.

Coltyn trotted to the castle and was escorted by the guards to the royal dining hall. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were having breakfast with Twilight and her friends.

“Princesses, may I have a word with you, in private,” Coltyn asked, bowing.

Celestia and Luna looked at each other quizzically. “I don’t see why not,” Celestia said, standing from the table. “Excuse us.” The others nodded; Celestia and Luna took Coltyn to a small hall off the side of the room.

“I had a dream,” Coltyn breathed heavily, lifting the book to show the Princesses.

“Is that?” Celestia asked.

“Yes, Starswirl’s work journal. The last pages contain an unfinished spell which he has determined to be one of Twilight’s tests,” Coltyn stated. “However, she still has much to learn and do, but this will be a true test of her knowledge.”

“I see, so this will be her final exam,” Celestia pondered. “I honestly was wondering what it would be.”

“There is also something else, something is coming. I don’t know what, but I have a feeling it’s dangerous. I will keep my eyes peeled for this threat that,” Coltyn drew an uneasy breath, “Twilight must face, alone.”

“Unacceptable!” Luna exclaimed. “She is not a force to be thrown at whatever problems rear their heads.”

“I agree with you, Princess Luna,” Coltyn replied firmly. “However, my grandfather must have a reason. I can only assume it’s to further her understanding of sacrifice. His spell is not complete and he mentioned a sacrifice to call upon the power locked inside her.”

“I think I understand how things will unfold,” Celestia acknowledged, deep in thought. “Luna, I want you to hold onto the journal.”

“Me?” Luna asked confused.

“Yes, I’m her teacher and want to push her to be all that she can. However, I know that this is not something to be taken lightly. So we will only bestow the task of rewriting Starswirl’s last spell when you think she is ready,” Celestia replied.

“Of course, sister,” Luna nodded, taking the book from Coltyn.

“Then I shall see myself out,” Coltyn bowed. “I have to prepare some lessons.”

“Thank you for bringing this to our attention,” Celestia smiled. “I will be in touch with you.”

Coltyn bowed, and took his leave from the hall. He returned to his cart to start planning lessons for Thunder Snow, knowing that it was going to be a challenge for both of them. A knock came from the door shortly after noon and he welcomed Thunder Snow inside.

“Have you read the book I gave you?” Coltyn asked.

“I did. I’m realizing that unicorn magic is hard to control and from the amount of focus it seems to require even more difficult to use in combat,” Thunder Snow admitted.

“Well that is why we practice. I have decided to start where all foals usually do, telekinesis,” Coltyn explained. “The concept is very simple; you reach out with your magic and manipulate the object.” Coltyn took out a glass and set it on the table. “Focus, extend, grasp, lift, and set the glass on the table.”

Thunder Snow looked at the glass and closed her eyes. She focused on the image of the glass like the book instructed and she could feel an extension of herself touch the glass. She grasped the glass and her concentration was broke by the sound of it shattering. She opened her eyes to see the glass had been crushed inward; causing her to snort in frustration.

“That wasn’t bad for your first attempt,” Coltyn said, using circle magic to repair the glass.

“What do you mean? I broke the glass. That isn’t right, it’s like there’s too much power behind it,” Thunder Snow stated.

“Exactly, if you use too much force you will crush what you’re trying to manipulate. It’s knowing how much force to use and you already can focus and extend your magic which is going to make our progress that much quicker.” Coltyn smiled. “Try it again, and this time only put half as much energy into grasping the glass.”

Thunder Snow focused again, her horn lighting as her magic wrapped around the glass. The glass cracked but Thunder Snow was beginning to feel how things were reacting to magic. She let her grasp fall to just a fraction of her power as she lifted the glass from the table. She opened her eyes to see the glass wrapped in a blue-white aura floating just off the table. Excited, she smiled, lost her focus, and let the glass fall, shattering.

“It’s not easy,” Thunder Snow sighed.

“No, but the more you practice the more it will become like second nature,” Coltyn encouraged, repairing the glass. “I know you will get this down in no time and then will be moving on to combat and weather training.”

Thunder Snow cocked her head. “Weather training? I think I got the hang of that,” Thunder Snow replied, with an amused snort.

“I mean making weather. It is clear that you can summon the same type of storm that you are named after,” Coltyn recalled. “So it seems only reasonable to explore the possibilities and potential uses of your skills. But for now let’s work on not breaking the glass.”

Thunder Snow nodded and once again focused on the glass. They practiced into the early evening and she had gotten to the point of being able to lift the glass without cracking or chipping it. Coltyn was pleased with the progress she made and ended the lesson. The two said their good-byes and Thunder Snow left for the day.

***

Coltyn made his way to the castle early wondering what his new position would involve. Coltyn was met by the guards and was brought to a meeting hall were Celestia was about to start her Day Court.

“Good morning, Princess Celestia,” Coltyn announced, bowing.

“Good morning, Coltyn,” Celestia responded. “Are you ready to start?”

“I wish to observe how your court is run and I’ll also need to sit in on one of Luna’s Night Courts to know how I might best advise you and your sister,” Coltyn admitted.

Celestia nodded. The first order of business was to see what the majority of the ponies wanted answers too. Not surprisingly most of the day’s questions involved Thunder Snow and what was going to happen because of this revelation.

“This is going to be a long day of repeating myself, again,” Celestia sighed.

“Well if I may, why not have them all come in, address the general question, and then move on to specific questions?” Coltyn asked.

Celestia pondered the idea and told the guards to let everypony in. The crowd was directed to take seats as they entered. Coltyn noticed many of the same ponies who were at the wedding had come to question the situation. He took a deep breath and steadied himself as he sat behind Celestia on her right side.

“Don’t let them intimidate you,” Celestia calmly whispered. “You’ll do fine.”

“I hope so. I haven’t been this nervous in a while,” Coltyn replied, noticing several ponies glance at him and start talking to their neighbor.

One of the guards stood in front of Celestia. “The Court of the Day will now begin. Many of you have questions as to what Captain Thunder Snow’s fate will be in light of the recent revelations of her status as Princess Celestia’s daughter, and the regeneration of her once destroyed horn. Princess Celestia will address this concern and if any clarification is required please raise your hoof and wait to be called.”

The guard left to resume his post; all eyes turned to Celestia.

“Thank you,” Celestia began. “My daughter, Princess Wintra Thunder Snow, will remain at her post as Captain of the Pegasus Guard until Prince Shining Armor returns from his honeymoon. After command of both branches of the Royal Guard is turned over to him, Princess Wintra will be assuming full command of the Royal Weather Service, and thereafter will oversee all weather plans that need approval as princess of storms.”

The nobles began to talk amongst themselves, most confused and some surprised. Coltyn noticed two whose looks of anger and resentment never faded; a grey stallion with a black mane and a butter-yellow mare with a light pink mane with a white streak. He recognized them from the wedding, and knew them from circulating amongst Canterlot society. They were social climbers, and the mare had a long-standing grudge against Thunder Snow. He mentally shook his head at their obvious discontent. He’d seen that look on ponies before and it always meant trouble.

“I know there will be many questions,” Celestia continued, “which is why I have recently hired an advisor.” Celestia motioned to Coltyn who stepped forward. “He will be training Thunder Snow, as well as assisting us with the upcoming transitions, so any questions that concern my daughter should be addressed to him.”

The statement fired up the crowd as the room came alive with chatter. Coltyn was able to hear questions like, ‘Why him? I’ve done more than anypony else! Who is he to jump that high?’ The noise grew to an uninterruptable roar as it seemed everypony tried to yell over each other. Scanning the room of yelling ponies he noticed one, a white stallion with well-groomed golden mane and tail, who seemed to want his voice heard, saying something about, ‘Aunt Celestia’. Coltyn wanted to explain but realized it would be useless unless he could be heard. He sighed, waiting for them to quiet down when he noticed Princess Celestia raise her hoof and stamp it hard onto her dais. Everypony’s ears folded back to block the harsh ring that emanated.

“This gathering was to discuss Princess Wintra. If you have questions about Coltyn and his position you will have to wait as you have before. Since it seems that there are no questions at this time you are all dismissed and we will continue as normal.” Princess Celestia looked onto her subjects, glowing with the authority of the sun. The nobles slowly started to file out, most grumbling under their breaths but none acting outwardly other than an angry glare as they left.

“Well this will be interesting to read in the morning paper,” Coltyn snorted as the last of the nobles left.

“It’s normal. They will try to ruin me and fail as they have for years. My only fear is the slander they will use against my daughter,” Celestia stated, worried.

“I will try to curb her icy rage but I will not lie to her. She has been hurt enough by lies,” Coltyn sighed.

Celestia nodded. “Then I trust you to make sure we don’t have an unexpected blizzard on our hooves,” Celestia smiled, looking down at Coltyn.

“Of course, your highness.” Coltyn bowed.

“Good. I had a room set up for you to conduct your business as advisor and a suite set aside for you to use when you are in Canterlot. Space has been allocated in the royal carriage house for your cart, of course.”

“You’re very generous. Thank you, Princess.”

“I can handle the rest from here. You should get settled into your office so you can begin handling the many visitors you’ll have tomorrow,” Celestia chuckled.

“I can’t wait,” Coltyn said sarcastically. “I’ll start getting things in order.” Coltyn bowed as he left via a side hallway.

Coltyn was led to a small study located near the main library. The room was lightly decorated with the royal symbols emblazoned on the drapes hanging on one wall. A small desk and a few small pillows were in the center of the room and pair of bookshelves containing some law books lined one of the walls. The back wall’s window had a view of the palace labyrinth and the statue garden.

Coltyn went back to his cart to pack supplies he would need; quills, paper, and a few books of his own. A knock came to his door as he was finishing his packing. He welcomed Thunder Snow in as he placed the last of his books into his bag.

“Going somewhere?” Thunder Snow asked, looking at the saddlebags.

“No, just moving a few things into the new advisor’s office,” Coltyn said. “I’m to be dealing with the nobles and their most likely endless list of complaints about you and me.”

“Why do you say that?” Thunder Snow asked.

“Well most of the nobility seemed indifferent about your new station, however; the fact I was appointed advisor got under some ponies’ fur. I have this feeling that we are going to be the front page news in the gossip columns tomorrow.”

“Well that is just a great way to start out as a princess, being slandered in the press,” Thunder Snow snorted.

“Well, if something really gets to you don’t hesitate to come to me or one of the other princesses. Sometimes a little reassurance can help,” Coltyn smiled, closing up his saddlebags. “So shall we continue our lesson from yesterday?”

Thunder Snow nodded. “I’ve been practicing and I think I’ve got levitation down.”

“Well then let’s see what you got.” Coltyn pulled down a glass and a pitcher filled with water.

Thunder Snow picked up the pitcher and poured a glass and set it back down, picked up the glass and took a slow drink before setting the glass back down.

“Well done. You must have practiced a lot,” Coltyn said, smiling.

“Not really.” Thunder Snow shook her head. “Once I figured out how to control the amount of force I’m exerting it just seemed to come naturally. I even used my magic to put my armor on today.”

“I see,” Coltyn said, rubbing his chin. “Well then maybe we should start looking into more specific uses of your magic.”

“Excellent, I’ve kind of wanted to see what my magic can do.” Thunder Snow smiled excitedly.

“First the basics, then we’ll move on,” Coltyn replied.

The two practiced into the evening and Coltyn gave Thunder Snow a few different books on elemental magic and advanced magic before parting ways for the evening. Coltyn retired early to be well rested for the day ahead of him.

Coltyn pulled his cart to the royal carriage house as the sun was breaking the horizon. He gathered his bag and a few other things he would need and went to his new office. Upon entering he noticed the Canterlot Chronicle sitting on his desk. Setting his bag down he began to read, focusing on the big news and gossip columns. Reading the random accusations, he shook his head in bemusement at the terrible gossip, including one editorial letter claiming the entire series of events was the result of a conspiracy by the entire royal family, who had been replaced by changelings and the Elements of Harmony were subsequently under their control. He shook his head in disgust, discarding the paper, and began to pull some quills and parchments from his bag.

“You have a visitor,” a guard said, knocking on the door.

“Come in,” Coltyn replied, setting a quill into his ink jar.

“Have you read today’s paper?” Thunder Snow asked, closing the door behind her.

“I have and the absolutely ridiculous ideas these ponies have come up with is simply disturbing,” Coltyn sighed.

Thunder Snow breathed deeply and exhaled slowly. “I trust the other princesses to take this new slander with grace. But the fact that they call me out on abandoning the guard is absurd and the column that claims I’m a windigo is just… painful,” Thunder Snow said, hurt evident in her voice. “I’m doing what I’m supposed to do as a princess of Equestria.”

“You are and they will figure it out, in time, but there have been some big changes in such a short time that it scares them,” Coltyn said softly. “I’ll have a talk with the editors and see if I can convince them to not print such nonsense.”

“That would be appreciated,” Thunder Snow smiled. “I have to get back to my station. I’ll come by later and we can have another talk.”

“As you wish,” Coltyn smiled, as she left.

He worked on filling out the paperwork to make his new position official as another knock came on his door. “A reporter from the Chronicle here to see you,” the guard announced.

“Come in,” Coltyn replied. A young earth mare, gold coat with a slivery mane and a fedora with a reporter tag on the side, entered the room. “How may I help you?”

“I would like to ask some questions,” the young mare said in a very serious tone, picking up a small recorder and set it on the table. “First off,” she cleared her throat, “why does Princess Celestia suddenly feel the need to have an advisor and why you?”

“Well I’m not sure on the answer for the first, but I have known her for a while and she trusts me,” Coltyn replied in a flat tone.

“I know there are others who would object to such claims. Where are you from? For somepony to ascend to such a rank without any history is very odd.”

“You mean without any evident social standing, do you not? Most of the objection to my advancement by the Princesses is due to the fact that I do not bother playing the status game with the upper echelons of Canterlot society. I was born in the Manehatten area,” Coltyn began. “I left to see the world and learn what I could from various places. When I returned, I came to study from the archives here.”

“So you’re a scholar? What area do you focus on?”

“Magic and augmentation, it’s a passion of mine.” Coltyn replied. He was getting the disquieting sense that she was digging for more than simply the reason Celestia and Luna had promoted him to be their advisor.

“I looked into finding out more about you but there isn’t anything,” the reporter said, looking at a small notepad. Coltyn nodded. “I looked for anything at all, but found nothing until a few years ago. It’s just interesting that no school records exist on you when you have a passion for magic. I would have thought that Celestia’s School would have a record of somepony like you.”

“I didn’t attend her school. My early training was handled by my grandfather,” Coltyn offered, feeling cornered. Then he looked pointedly at the clock, and stepped away from his desk. Ushering the reporter to the door, he smiled professionally and said, “I would love to continue our discussion, but I have other matters to attend,” he smiled, moving some papers into his bags.

“Very well,” she said, taking the recorder and placing it in her bag. “By the way, I will find the truth.” She left but before the door closed he finally got a look at her cutie mark, a magnifying glass with a question mark inside.

“She’s going to be trouble,” Coltyn sighed. Grabbing his bag, he left his office. “Please tell Princess Wintra that I would like to meet her at the café.” The guard at the door nodded and walked away.

Coltyn made his way to the café, but had a feeling that he was being followed. Turning his head, he looked for anything, but nothing stood out. He wasn’t going to concern himself with ghosts that weren’t there and continued to the café. Taking his seat he pulled out some paperwork and took to looking for what might have caused him to feel like he was being followed. Seeing nothing, he set to finishing the paperwork for his new position.

“Hello,” Thunder Snow said, approaching Coltyn’s table.

“Hello Princess,” Coltyn said, standing up till Thunder Snow sat down.

“That still feels weird to be addressed as Princess,” Thunder Snow stated.

“I’m sure you’ll get used to it.”

“So why are we here?”

“Two reasons. One, I needed to get out of the office and two, I’ve got a feeling that the reporter who came to my office may be prying for information.”

Thunder Snow’s interest peaked, raising an eyebrow. “You were approached by Truth Seeker?”

“So that’s her name,” Coltyn said, pondering.

“She’s very persistent and will do almost anything to get the answers she wants. You’re going to have to be extra careful as long as she’s on your tail.”

“I just hope she doesn’t get in trouble. I’ve stirred a few nests back in the day and I’d hate to see another pony get hurt in the crossfire.”

Thunder Snow nodded as the two enjoyed lunch together, Thunder Snow showing her abilities to use magic.

Unbeknownst to them, a cloaked figure in an alley nearby smiled, whispering a triumphant, “Bingo,” before disappearing into the dark.

Chapter 12: Black Claw

Coltyn picked up a paper before heading to his office. The front page had a sideline dedicated to the new advisor’s background. It wasn’t too long but basically gave the general information on where he lived and that he was not trained under a school. What did set him a little on edge was the fact that she asked for any information available due to lack of evidence. “She is persistent,” he muttered, shaking his head, returning to his suite.

Coltyn was going to sit in on Luna’s Night Court that night, so he decided to take the afternoon off and catch up on some reading and maybe take a nap. He was relaxing when somepony knocked on his door. Looking through the peep hole, he opened the door, “Welcome, Princess Wintra.” Thunder Snow stepped inside, Coltyn closing the door, “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“I know that you will be up late with Luna attending her court, so I thought I should come by and get some training in before you must leave for the night.”

“Of course,” Coltyn smiled, retrieving the lesson book from his saddle bag. “Let’s see,” he hummed, looking through the book. “Protection and shields, this will be our next focus.”

Thunder Snow nodded, “I’m ready.”

Coltyn explained how to summon a protective barrier and the basics of continuous spells. Thunder Snow worked on the casting but was only able to create a small shield. But as they continued she was able to summon the shield bubble but it wasn’t able to take a hit without collapsing. She snorted, a little frustrated but pleased.

“I’ll have to keep working on this. This kind of spell is a lot harder than levitation and other quick spells,” Thunder Snow said, looking towards the sunset. “I think you should be getting ready for your time with Princess Luna.”

Seeing the sun setting, Coltyn nodded. “Yes, it’s going to be a long night.”

“I’ll see you in the morning, maybe get breakfast?” Thunder Snow asked.

“That would be wonderful,” Coltyn smiled, walking her to the door.

“I’ll meet you in the Royal Guard’s dining room, if that’s alright?”

Coltyn nodded, turning back into the room to gather his bag before setting off. His walk to Luna’s Court room was nothing like the castle during the day. It was quiet and somber with the occasional guard making his rounds. The door to the chamber was emblazoned with stars and the moon in its four major positions. Opening the door, the room was decorated in deep blues and violets with the moonlight shining in giving a calming ambiance. Princess Luna sat upon her dais, eyes closed, beneath a banner adorned with her cutie mark. Coltyn approached the princess, noticing that she was flanked by her bat-winged guardponies. She was in a trance, walking the dreamscape of one or more sleeping ponies.

“Greetings Coltyn,” Luna said, her eyes slowly opening. “I’m glad to have you here.”

“Thank you, Princess,” Coltyn bowed, “it’s an honor.”

“There isn’t much happening tonight. Many had questions for my sister and I will not answer them in her place.”

“So, if I may, what do you do on nights like this?”

Luna smiled brightly. “I wander the dreamscape, dispersing nightmares and keeping watch over dreams. But of course, there might be an unexpected commotion that requires attention but usually nothing that can’t be handled.”

“Well I don’t think I can help much in the dreamscape,” Coltyn admitted. “But I will help in any way I can.”

“Well in that case,” Luna said, grabbing something with her magic. “Would you like to help me learn this game better?” Luna set an elegantly crafted checkered board down and set up the chess pieces. “My sister tells me that it was developed shortly after my exile and was a big hit.”

“I remember. I bought one because it had a little figure of you, something to keep you close to me, I guess,” Coltyn said, setting up the white pieces. “I learned the rules but I never actually played the game.”

“Well then shall we have a try at it,” Luna smiled, placing the black princess on the white square.

“It would be an honor,” he said, grabbing a pawn and moving it two spaces forward.

The night wore on as the two continued their game. Coltyn was falling behind and had his princess on the run before getting cornered.

“Checkmate,” Luna said, triumphantly.

Coltyn sighed, smiling as he reached out to knock over his princess with his hoof. Just then, a guard came through the door. The two unicorns brought in an earth pony Coltyn recognized as the reporter from before, Truth Seeker.

“Your highness, we caught her in the royal carriage house, trying to enter Advisor Coltyn’s cart.”

Luna looked down at the mare. “What do you think you would have found by illegally entering his cart?”

“The truth,” Truth Seeker stated plainly. “He’s hiding something and I want to know why.”

“My poor little pony,” Luna shook her head, “sometimes you should trust our judgment. He isn’t hiding anything.”

“With all due respect your majesty, I’d rather hear it from him.”

Coltyn sighed, turning to Luna. “I’ll take care of this.” Luna looked at him a little shocked but nodded. “Please, let’s return to my cart. I will be able to better answer your questions there,” Coltyn offered, proceeding to the door. The guards turned to follow but Luna bid them stay.

The two proceeded down to the royal carriage lot and stopped in front of Coltyn’s cart. Without turning Coltyn asked, “Why do you persist in this goal?”

“Unraveling mysteries is my forte and I think that the world should know the true nature of those who lead,” Truth Seeker smirked. “But for you I made an exception.”

Coltyn turned, looking quizzically at her as a slight pain hit his neck. He quickly grabbed the object that hit him and noticed it was a dart before the room started spinning. “What’s going on?” He asked falling to the ground. He tried to focus, get to his feet, but his body felt boneless as he lay on the floor. He looked around as two cloaked figures emerged. His ears began to ring, making it hard to hear what was happening. He saw one of the figures extend a claw out holding a pouch that Truth Seeker took with green magic and saw them arguing but he couldn’t make out what. The pony left as the cloaked figure turned to Coltyn and pulled a cloth from a small jar and placed it over his muzzle. The vile smelling cloth caused his eyes to roll back in his head and the world to go black.

***

Princess Wintra Thunder Snow arrived early to the dining hall, hoping to spend some time with Coltyn. She had gotten her food and sat down where she could easily see when he came in. She slowly picked at her food staring intently at the entry way. The morning guard rotation came in, ate their meals and headed off to start their day, while she continued to wait. When the night watch began to enter she cleared her table and with quiet fury made her way to Coltyn’s office.

She knocked on the door and without waiting for a response opened the door with her magic. She looked around and didn’t find him anywhere and the office looked like it hadn’t been touched since the previous night. ‘Maybe he went to rest and just fell asleep.’ She rationalized, closing the door and heading to his suite.

She knocked and waited and when no answer or commotion came from the other side she tried the door, only to find it locked. She called one of the unicorn guards who passed by to unlock the door for her. The guard complied, unlocked the door, and continued his round. She opened the door and proceeded to search the room. The suite looked like nopony had been here, the bed was still made and a few dishes were in the sink. Now she was starting to worry. “Where in Equestria are you?” She snorted in frustration. Locking and closing the door, she made her way to the royal carriage house.

She approached the carriage house, opened the door, and looking at the ground in front of Coltyn’s cart her eyes widened. She quickly called her guards who came running. “Nopony gets in or leaves this area,” She instructed. The guards saluted and took their watch over the scene as Thunder Snow took wing to inform the Princesses.

Thunder Snow landed on a balcony closes to where the princesses had their dawn meal. Quickly navigating the halls she came to the door where the princesses were and without knocking entered the room. They turned, shocked to see Thunder Snow.

“I apologize for the interruption,” Thunder Snow said quickly. “But there is an urgent problem. Coltyn is missing.”

“Are you sure?” Luna asked, guiltily.

“Yes,” Thunder Snow nodded. “There was an imprint of some type of magic in the Royal Carriage house.”

“Please take us there,” Celestia asked. “We need to get to the bottom of this quickly.”

“I need to know what happened before he disappeared,” Thunder said, leading the princesses to the carriage house.

“Late last night my guards brought in Truth Seeker. She was trying to break into his cart,” Luna informed her sister and niece, the three of them approaching the carriage house.

Thunder Snow turned to the guard. “Bring Truth Seeker in for questioning.” The guard saluted and with a quick nod the two went to find her. “Was there anything else?”

Luna shook her head. “The rest of the night was uneventful.”

Thunder Snow nodded, opening the door and began to take a closer look at the scene. As she carefully walked around the area she noticed several details.

“It looks like he was led here, where two winged ponies waited in the dark rafters. Wait,” Thunder Snow looked closer at a print in the dirt, “griffons?”

“What would griffons want with Coltyn?” Celestia pondered.

“I might have some insight on this,” Luna said. “But we must talk in private.”

“Of course,” Thunder Snow nodded. “My primary concern at the moment is finding out how they escaped.”

“I’m not sure,” Celestia said. “But if I know my student, she will have the answer quickly.”

Thunder Snow nodded as they left to talk in private.

***

“Ugh,” Coltyn groaned, trying to open his eyes. “What happened?” He voiced, trying to move. “Why can’t I move?”

“That’s probably the muscle relaxer,” an old ragged voice answered, “and with the amount of potions they inject you with I’ll bet your horn won’t work ether.”

“Where am I?” Coltyn asked, trying to turn to the voice.

“A place that makes Tartarus sound like heaven,” the voice chuckled. “Welcome to Flock Prison.”

“Flock Prison?” Coltyn asked surprised, turning his body to see where the voice was coming from. “In griffon country?”

“None other,” an old greyed out griffon acknowledged, stepping into the light of the single torch that lit the hall. “Awful long ways from home aren’t you.”

“How long have I been here?”

“I’d guess about half a day, you were brought in late last night.”

‘How did I get here that quickly? It’s a three day journey even for a pegasus.’ Coltyn thought, as he heard the door from down the hall open.

“Play dead and you might live another day,” the old griffon said before disappearing back into the shadows.

Coltyn took the old bird’s advice and lay motionless on the floor, drawing slow steady breaths. He could hear the guards taking.

“Why is this prisoner so important?” A young female voice asked.

“Look newbie,” an older male voice answered. “It’s our job is to keep these wastes of space contained and if the head of a clan tells you they’re dangerous, listen. Do as you’re told and you’ll do alright, now give this thing his shot and let’s go.”

Coltyn waited and felt the prick on his neck. The injection burned fiercely but he managed to not move and draw attention to himself. After a short while the door in the distance closed allowing Coltyn to grunt in pain.

“So I got to ask before you pass out, why are you here?”

Coltyn turned his head, his eyes groggy. “I don’t know.” Coltyn’s eyes rolled back into his head and passed out.

***

“That might be a factor in this,” Luna finished, recalling what Coltyn told her of the night he lost control.

“I never thought he would be so vicious,” Thunder said, shocked by the less graphic description Luna offered. “Still that was a long time ago and we need to find him.”

Celestia and Luna nodded as a knock came at the door. The guard opened the door and Twilight led Spike into the chamber.

“What’s the emergency?” Twilight asked.

“Coltyn is missing and the abductors used magic to get away,” Celestia informed. “I need you to find out what you can about how they escaped.”

Twilight thought for a moment. “I’ll need to do a little research, but it shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Very well,” Celestia smiled. “You’ll have all resources available to you. Please hurry, time is crucial.”

Twilight began to dictate to Spike a list of things she would need. Twilight turned to leave as a guard entered. “Truth Seeker is waiting for you, Captain.”

“Thank you,” Thunder Snow said, dismissing the guard. “I’ll keep you apprised of our progress.” Thunder Snow stood and left the chamber and headed to the interrogation room.

Thunder Snow entered the watch room which had a special glass that allowed ponies to see through one side but the other, and also had a camouflaged section that allowed the conversation to be heard in the room.

“Has she said or done anything suspicious?” Thunder Snow asked a guard.

“No, Captain,” he shook his head. “She was found at the Canterlot Chronicle. She looked groggy and tired as if she was up late.”

Thunder Snow nodded and entered the room. “Have a late night did we?”

Truth Seeker looked up at the princess. “What am I doing here? I’ve got work to finish.” She said rubbing her head.

Thunder Snow looked over the lethargic earth pony. “What were you doing last night?”

“I was working late trying to get through the sudden flood of mail I got regarding the new advisor. I got some coffee to help stave off sleep. I don’t even remember falling asleep. I woke up just as your guards collected me and brought me here.”

Thunder Snow rubbed her muzzle. “Is there anypony who could confirm your claim?”

“Yes, the night janitor, Clean Sweep, came by to empty my garbage can.”

“Very well,” Thunder Snow said, standing up. “We’ll have to confirm with him that your story is accurate, but until then we will have to keep you here.” Thunder Snow informed as she left the room.

“Find Clean Sweep and bring him in. We need to confirm if she’s being truthful.” The guard saluted, turned, and left. Thunder Snow sighed, “Coltyn, where are you?”

***

Coltyn slowly began to regain consciousness. “Ugh, my flank burns,” Coltyn voiced, feeling a dull pain.

“Welcome back,” the old bird squawked. “So what’s the story with you and The Black Claw Clan?”

“Black Claw Clan?” Coltyn asked, still regaining his senses.

“Nasty bunch if you ask me. But you seemed to have a past with their leader’s ancestor.”

“I do?” Coltyn asked confused, turning to see the old bird.

“Yep,” he nodded. “Burned off your star design and gave you that nice muzzle harness.”

Coltyn reached up and touched his face, leather straps wrapped around his muzzle, up between his eyes, around his horn, and fastened behind his head. His hoof touched the locking device and was given a shock.

“Oh yeah, don’t touch that. Gives you a nasty shock and I think that one must prevent the use of magic, too.”

“What makes you think that old crow?” Coltyn snarled, rubbing his hoof.

“The fact that you didn’t get any more injections, I wouldn’t be surprised if they hauled you out to the coliseum so you can be torn to bits for their amusement.”

“Great,” Coltyn snorted, feeling a rumble in his stomach. “I doubt that they feed us here.”

A loud snap was heard above, a shriek, and the sound of something hitting the floor in the old birds cell. “No, but the pest traps dump into the cells.” The old bird walked over and brought a dead owl back to the edge of his cell. “Want some?” He offered.

“No thanks, we ponies are vegetarians.” Coltyn politely refused, hearing another snap before something fell into his cell.

“Well then you might die of starvation. No plants grow down here.”

Coltyn snorted in frustration before hearing the door down the hall open. His cell mate disappeared and he closed his eyes and lay motionless except for controlling his breathing. He heard two griffons walking toward him, coming to a stop right behind him.

“Get up!” A male voice shrieked.

Coltyn lay still hoping they would leave but the sudden shock to his horn caused him to convulse and scream in pain.

“Get up!”

Coltyn complied, lightly putting weight on his hind legs that still stung from the branding. He looked through the bars seeing a middle-age griffon, brown body and wings and greying feathers on his head with a scar over his left eye, and a younger female griffon, deep amber body and wings with black tips on her wing feathers with red accents on her head.

“What’s your name?” The male asked.

“Why am I here?” Coltyn replied.

The griffon glared at Coltyn, before pulling out a controller and pressing a button. The button activated Coltyn’s muzzle sending a jolt through his horn, causing his legs to buckle.

“I ask the questions,” the male said. “What’s your name?”

“Coltyn,” he answered, getting back on his hooves.

The male pressed the button again, causing Coltyn to fall on his side from the jolt.

“Your full name,” the griffon stated.

Coltyn groaned as he pushed himself back onto his hooves, again. “Coltyn Pendragon.”

Coltyn noticed that the female seemed uncomfortable with the situation as she notated his answers.

“What do you eat?” The male asked.

“What all equines eat,” Coltyn started, but was interrupted by another jolt to his horn.

“I’m not in the mood to play games. Just answer the question,” the male snarled.

“Hay, oats, flowers, sweet grasses, and so on,” Coltyn replied from is back.

The male nodded and turned to leave as Coltyn got back on his hooves and let out a frustrated snort. The male stopped and glared at Coltyn before pressing the button with his claw and not letting go.

“I’m being nice and finding out what you eat so you don’t die of starvation,” the male grumbled. Coltyn thrashed on the floor screaming as his horn was assaulted by the electric jolts. “The least you could do is appreciate it.” The male let go of the button, Coltyn lay on the ground twitching and gasping for air.

“I’m sorry for Warden Ironbeak’s behavior,” the female apologized.

“Maria,” Ironbeak bellowed. She quickly ran to catch up and shortly after Coltyn heard the door close.

“Are you descended from the Pendragon who brought about the end of the war a thousand years ago?” The old griffon asked.

“I think,” Coltyn groaned, “I recall something like that.”

“Now it all makes sense.”

“What makes sense?” Coltyn asked confused.

“The reason you’re here. Black Claw’s ancestor was killed by a unicorn named Pendragon and their family has wanted revenge ever since.”

“What else do you know?”

“That’s it. Basic history, we aren’t allowed to forget; but I’m sure you’ll get more details soon.”

Coltyn shifted uncomfortably. “I’m not sure I want to find out.”

***

Thunder Snow was taking down some notes on what Truth Seeker said when somepony knocked.

“Come in,” Thunder Snow welcomed.

“We found Clean Sweep,” a guard announced, entering the room. “Although I doubt that he will be of aid in this investigation.”

“Why do you say that?” Thunder Snow asked, dreading the answer.

“We found him bound and gagged in his closet,” the guard informed.

“I see. Well he may be able to lead us to the pony that actually was there that night.”

The guard nodded as the two left and made their way to the interrogation room. Inside the room sat a grey earth pony nervously looking around. Thunder Snow entered and slowly approached the pony.

“You’re Clean Sweep, correct?” Thunder Snow asked.

“You’re one of them, aren’t you?” Clean Sweep exclaimed, backing away from Thunder Snow. “Please don’t hurt me.” He cowered in the corner, trying to hide from Thunder Snow.

“It’s ok,” Thunder Snow said, trying to comfort the panicked pony. “Nopony is going to hurt you.”

“You’re with them,” he shouted, before curling up in the corner. “I don’t want to die,” he whimpered.

“Nopony is going to hurt you,” Thunder Snow assured. “But we need your help. Somepony has abducted the new advisor, Coltyn.” Clean Sweep looked up to Thunder Snow. “I need your help. I need to know who hurt you because I’m thinking that they are one and the same.”

“I can’t. They’ll kill me if I tell.”

“I promise that we’ll protect you, but I need you to tell me who did this.”

Clean Sweep thought for a minute before turning to Thunder Snow. “It was a black pony-like creature with sharp pointy,” he shuddered, “fangs and horn with insect like wings.”

“A changeling? Are you sure?”

Clean Sweep nodded.

“Was it acting alone?”

He tightened his posture, shaking his head. “There were others.”

“Please, tell me what you can remember about them.”

“I didn’t see their faces.”

“Anything you can remember will be helpful,” Thunder Snow pleaded.

“One of them had claws like an eagle; he was the one who blindfolded me.”

“Was it just the two of them?”

“There were three voices, but all I recall is that one spoke with the air of a noble. All he said was that if I talked I wouldn’t see the next dawn.” He curled up tight. “That’s all I know.”

“Thank you. I will arrange for your protection immediately.” Thunder Snow left and informed her guard to gather three others to watch over Clean Sweep. The guard saluted and left as Thunder Snow stood in the watch room, keeping an eye on him. The guard returned with three others and was ordered to have two inside the room and two out guarding the door.

Thunder Snow made her way to Celestia’s meeting chamber. Approaching the chamber, she arrived as Prince Blueblood was leaving. He gave a slight bow, accompanied by a small, mocking grin, to which Thunder Snow nodded, continuing into the chamber. ‘I’ve never liked him,’ she thought. “Princess Celestia, I have an update.”

“What have you learned?” Celestia asked, curious.

“It seems that a changeling was the one who tricked Coltyn into walking into the ambush.”

“That is disturbing news.”

“Well it wasn’t working alone. My initial discovery was right; a griffon is involved. But there also seems to be somepony among the nobility who may have also had a hoof in this.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow, “What makes you think that?”

“Clean Sweep said that he heard a male voice that had a noble accent.”

“Well that doesn’t help narrow the search very much,” Celestia stated as Twilight entered.

“I have my report on the scene,” Twilight announced. “It seems that there was a basic levitation spell cast and a teleportation spell. Two beings teleported but one was not like the pattern left by unicorn teleportation. The pattern was similar to the changeling’s magic, but the method the griffon used eludes me.”

“I see,” Thunder Snow said. “With your permission, Princess, I believe we need to find this changeling and find out who’s behind this.”

“Of course, but please be careful,” Celestia nodded.

“I’m going with her,” Twilight said firmly.

The princesses looked at her, shocked. Thunder Snow shook her head, arguing, “No, I won’t risk your safety. It’s too dangerous and I will not risk a civilian’s life.”

“You’ll need my help, Princess Wintra, or more specifically my magic,” Twilight stated plainly. Thunder Snow raised her brow. “Changelings feed off the emotion of love. But a text Spike found mentioned that their fangs can be used to drain the essence of a being. I can cast a spell shielding our emotions from them, and two horns are better than one.”

Thunder Snow turned to Celestia. “I don’t want to endanger her,” Thunder Snow argued.

“Unfortunately she’s right,” Celestia sighed. “Please make all haste to find Coltyn.”

Thunder Snow and Twilight bowed, turned, and left the hall.

“I thought it was going to be harder to convince you,” Twilight said, trying to break the tension.

“Normally it would be, however I’ve begun to realize that I can’t solve every problem by myself,” Thunder Snow stated, making their way to the carriage house. “I’m realizing why your brother asked me to join him on so many missions. Gather what you need and meet me at the Carriage house in half an hour.”

Twilight nodded and went to gather her supplies. Thunder Snow did the same as she put together a bag with some rations, a small bag of bits, and her new throwing daggers. She attached the holder to the inside of her bag to conceal them, and wanting to test her pull, she reached and grabbed one with her magic and threw it at the wall. The butt of the dagger hit the wall as it fell to the floor. ‘Well at least it pulls smoothly without hurting me,’ she thought, lifting the blade and sheathing it before heading to meet Twilight.

Thunder Snow approached Twilight, standing outside the carriage house. Twilight sighed, “This will feel weird. I’m going to shield our thoughts and emotions so the changelings can’t feed off them. I’ve traced the line of the changeling’s teleport and it went a long way. We’ll have to do it in sections.”

Thunder Snow nodded, “Whenever you’re ready.”

Twilight nodded and closed her eyes. Her horn glowed as she wrapped their hearts in her magic. Thunder Snow felt the spell seal away her happy and joyful thoughts. The only thing she felt was the need to complete the mission. When she finished the spell, Twilight opened her eyes, which were empty and seemingly lifeless.

“Let’s go,” Twilight said, dully.

Thunder Snow nodded as they were enveloped in purple magic and flashed away.

***

Coltyn sat in his cell, close to the bars, conserving his energy and pondering a way to regain access to his magic. He softly knocked the lock against the wall only to be given a slight jolt.

“Well smashing the lock won’t work without giving me a serious headache,” Coltyn sighed, frustrated, hearing the door open.

Coltyn looked down the hall and saw Maria carrying something on her back. She stopped, grasped a rod in one claw, and the cell keys in the other. “Please stand back,” she ordered, trying to sound authoritative.

Coltyn complied and moved to the back of the cell. She opened the door, placed a tray with some grass clippings and dandelions down, and locked the door.

“You don’t have the personality for this,” Coltyn commented, approaching the tray.

She stopped and turned to Coltyn. “What makes you think that? I’ve been doing this for almost a year.”

“I saw the look on your face while your boss was talking to me,” Coltyn explained. “You should be doing something better with your life then watching over prisoners.”

Maria looked away. “You may have that luxury but I don’t. I’ve got to become more like my father, strong, fearless.”

“You mean heartless,” he said flatly, taking a small bite from the tray.

Maria looked at him with raised brow. “What do you mean by that?” she asked, sharply.

Coltyn swallowed, hesitated a moment, choosing his words carefully. “It’s a lesson from the past. Wrath and revenge brings nothing but suffering and hardship.” Maria stood there, looking thoughtful as his words turned in her head. “It’s disheartening to learn that your clan has suffered for so many years, but I can’t change the past. But maybe together we can work for a better future.”

“Easy for you to say,” Maria scoffed. “You don’t have to watch fellow griffons suffer and starve because of poor harvests and lack of game.”

“I’m sure there are others out there that would be willing to help.”

“That’s not how it’s done.”

“Are you satisfied with how your clan is taking care of its members?”

“Well…” Maria trailed off.

“I’m offering you my friendship, and hope to change your clan’s situation,” Coltyn smiled, extending a hoof.

“Friendship is weak,” Maria stated coldly.

“I’ve seen friendship do amazing things and what’s the harm of trying?” He asked gently. He waited as Maria seemed to contemplate his words. With a tilt of his head, he urged, “Nothing will change unless someone tries.”

She didn’t say anything but extended her claw and shook his hoof. His warm smile sparked a cautious smile in return, which quickly faded when the door down the hall opened. Maria quickly retracted her claw and turned to leave Warden Ironbeak called.

“What have I told you about conversing with the scum?”

“To not to,” Maria recited, lowering her head.

“You know the punishment for disobedience.”

Nothing else was said; Coltyn strained his ears then heard the crack of a whip on flesh. The whip cracked twice more as the faint whimpers from Maria cut at his heart. His glare down the hall was soon met by a pair of old, angry eyes. The Warden came over to Coltyn’s cell and presented the control for his muzzle.

“You are nothing but trouble,” He stated, pressing the button. Coltyn tried to fight it but the pain overwhelmed him, causing him to thrash on the ground. “I would have ended you long ago but his Lordship has something special planned for you.” Warden Ironbeak let go of the button and left the hall.

Coltyn gasped for air, hearing the griffon in the next cell call out. “You’re in major trouble now. Once Warden tells on you, you’ll die and I’d bet my wings in a grand way.”

“What happens to me isn’t important,” Coltyn stated, regaining his hooves. “It’s her that will set in motion the change that your country desperately needs.”

Chapter 13: Reunion

Twilight and Thunder Snow appeared in a valley just below the black jagged peaks of the Mountains of Desolation which formed the southern border of Equestria and the western border of the Griffon Kingdom. Twilight held her composure but Thunder Snow knew that they would need to be ready for whatever lay beyond.

“We’ll rest here and continue tomorrow,” Thunder Snow ordered coldly. Her feelings were still locked away.

Twilight nodded. Looking around she saw a cave they could use for shelter. With a quick flash the two were standing outside the cave. Thunder Snow signaled for Twilight to wait while she checked the cave. Drawing a dagger, she slowly entered checking both sides and the back of the cave as the sun set. Seeing nothing dangerous she called Twilight inside. Twilight placed an illusion on the entrance making it undetectable as the two of them settled down for some rest.

Thunder Snow was awoken by a strange buzz echoing through the cave. Seizing a dagger with her magic, she approached the barrier. The sun had just risen as the red-orange hues of dawn filled the sky. Looking up she saw a small group of changelings hovering over their location. She wondered what they were waiting for before looking out to the east horizon. A lone griffon flew towards the group and stopped before presenting a scroll. To her shock, Queen Chrysalis emerged from the group and took the letter. The queen seemed insulted as she cursed at the messenger loud enough for her to hear that Coltyn was in the griffon’s territory.

Thunder Snow woke Twilight hurriedly. “We need to move quickly. There is a commotion outside about Coltyn,” she whispers.

Twilight nods and the two look through the barrier in time to see Chrysalis tear the letter to pieces, and let it drift off on the wind. Twilight, not wanting it to get away, teleported the letter into the cave and began putting it back together. One of the changelings started to make a hissing noise but a quick stern look from their queen silenced it. Chrysalis turned back to the messenger, said something, and her squad attacked the griffon, digging their fangs into its flesh. The shriek of pain echoed across the mountains as the changelings fed, and then Chrysalis took hold of his head and spat on his face before encasing him in a green ball and hurling him back towards the Griffon Kingdom.

Thunder Snow watched as the changelings retreated back to their lands, breathing a sigh of relief. Twilight had pieced the letter back together and was scanning it over and over as if the words were tricking her. Thunder Snow looked over and read the letter.

‘To the Changeling Queen;

I, lord of the Blackclaw clan, have recently captured the pony who handed you defeat in Canterlot. We extend an invitation to his execution which will occur in the Battle Stadium. He will be pitted against opponents until he slays them all or more likely dies. This grand display will take place at the end of the week. We hope to see you here for the bloodbath as revenge is finally served.

Lord Nathanial Blackclaw’

Twilight looked at Thunder Snow who couldn’t believe their luck. Now that they had a place and a time and all they needed to do was get there.

“Thinking of a lover?” A familiar voiced called out.

Twilight and Thunder Snow turned to see Chrysalis blocking their exit.

“What’s it to you?” Thunder Snow asked flatly.

“To me? Nothing, princess,” Chrysalis sneered, “I just felt your heart leap for joy. You should be more careful.”

“But how?” Twilight questioned. “I locked our feelings away.”

“You of all ponies should know that even magic as strong as yours can’t hide true love.”

Thunder Snow blushed at the revelation of her innermost secret feelings. “So you know I care for him. I’ll tell you that if you hinder us you won’t see the next sunrise.”

“So quick to judge, that’s not how a leader handles a situation.”

“What do you mean?” Thunder Snow asked through gritted teeth, annoyed that her abilities where now being questioned.

“I just handed you everything you were looking for, the least you could do is show some gratitude,” Chrysalis remarked.

“What, you mean like payment?” Twilight asked, warily. Chrysalis’s smile confirmed Twilight’s guess.

“We don’t have anything in the way of bits or gems…” Thunder Snow began, but was cut off by the queen.

“No, I don’t need wealth,” Chrysalis replied slyly. “I haven’t fed off of love since being tossed out of Canterlot.”

“I will not allow you to use us as livestock,” Thunder Snow objected.

“And I don’t have to allow you to leave this cave alive,” Chrysalis retorted.

Chrysalis and Thunder Snow engaged in a staredown, only interrupted when Twilight spoke.

“If you are allowed to feed, you will let us leave and not impede our travel and never attempt a large scale invasion of Equestria again,” Twilight laid out the terms.

“I guess that’s an acceptable bargain…” Chrysalis smiled coyly, then continued, “But only if I can feed until satisfied.” Chrysalis began eyeing Thunder Snow. “New love is so deliciously sweet.”

Thunder Snow shuddered in disgust.

“That may be, but you want to be satisfied,” Twilight retorted, seeing the Queen’s intentions. “I have a bountiful amount of love.”

“Twilight, I can’t have you doing this,” Thunder Snow protested.

“It’s better that only one of us is weakened rather than both of us,” Twilight retorted.

“She has a point. This will take a lot out of whom ever I choose,” Chrysalis added.

“Don’t worry,” Twilight smiled, “I’ll be alright.”

“I’ve never had an audience when I fed so don’t go anywhere, but interrupt and it will be the end of both of you,” Chrysalis said, looking at Thunder Snow.

Thunder Snow sighed. “Understood.”

Chrysalis turned to Twilight, her horn glowing sickly green for a moment as her form changed into that of the familiar earth stallion. Thunder Snow watched helplessly as the changeling’s disguise worked on Twilight, whose eyes began glowing green. Thunder Snow looked on helplessly, just wanting to have this end so they could save Coltyn.

***

Coltyn was resting in his cell when the hall door opened. His eyes couldn’t comprehend the horror before him. Maria had brought another tray of random vegetation – whichever griffon was creating his meals seemed to relish giving him weeds and bruised or overripe food – but the bruised eye, lacerations, and other welts told him that she had paid dearly for talking to him.

“Who did this to you?” Coltyn asked, concerned.

Maria said nothing, placing the food in the cell. Coltyn noticed a collar around her neck and figured it was similar to his and didn’t press for more information. Maria turned and left, leaving Coltyn alone, nibbling at his food.

“She got off easy,” the old griffon said.

“What makes you say that?”

“She’s still alive – most likely let her live for now to make her see what’s in store for you. It probably won’t last, they’ll kill her eventually. No griffon gets off easy here,” he commented before returning to the shadows.

The hall door opened again, admitting Warden Ironbeak and two fully armored griffons that accompanied him.

“Your presence is required,” Ironbeak stated coldly.

“By whom?” Coltyn asked.

Ironbeak didn’t respond as he opened the cell, the two griffons entered and placed leads on each side of the halter about his muzzle. The two guards yanked harshly on the leads, straining Coltyn’s neck as they
pulled him down the hall. Coltyn tried to memorize the path they were taking but all the halls were decorated so uniformly that nothing stood out, and when he would look in one direction too long his head would be jerked forward.

After about ten minutes they arrived at a set of lavishly embellished doors depicting two griffons facing each other on their hind legs, beaks open and claws ready to strike. Upon entering, Coltyn examined the dining room, which was decorated in tapestries of reds and purples, all bearing the image of a claw holding the world. The table was large with swirl patterns embroidered along the borders. Several violet pillows were placed around the table. Coltyn was led to the one at the end of the table and commanded to seat himself. The cushion was covered in very soft silk. The guards anchored his leads to the table legs and took their places on either side of the door.

Coltyn tried to lift the table to see if he could slip the leads free but the heavy construction was more than his hooves could move. Contemplating what to do, he was distracted as chefs began to bring forth a banquet – roasted pork, ribs, bread, fruit, vegetables, puddings, and pastries all filed in and were laid before him. A sudden flash of Princess Celestia sitting at the other end of the table sent a chill down his spine before his host appeared.

The griffon stood taller than the others he’d seen and his defined and sculpted brown body showed his strength but what stood out were his black claws. He approached the table as Coltyn’s eyes locked onto him but diverted when he noticed another enter the room – Maria.

“Welcome to my table descendent of a murderer. I’m Nathanial Blackclaw,” he welcomed, taking his place at the head of the table. “I know you’ve met my daughter, Maria.”

Coltyn nodded as he looked at her injured body.

“Such a spiteful youth, thinking of such foolish things after talking to you,” He grabbed her beak, looking her in the eyes. “That’s why I had to punish her. Isn’t it?”

Maria nodded, closing her eyes as a stray tear escaped. Coltyn felt his blood boil as he was nearly overcome with the desire to avenge the harm done her, but he sat silently, gritting his teeth. Nathanial watched him knowingly, a malicious smirk twisting his beak. He let go of Maria and filled a plate with food. Almost conversationally, he said, “Now I suppose you’re wondering why you’re here.”

“That thought had crossed my mind,” Coltyn replied.

Nathanial placed a box on the table, pulled out a simple carving knife and slid it across the table having it stop just in front of Coltyn. “Do you recognize this?” he asked, taking bites from his plate.

Coltyn looked at the knife as memories of a bloodied griffon flashed through his mind like so many snapshots. “No,” he answered flatly.

“There is a grand story behind this,” Nathanial began, dabbing some food off his beak with a napkin. “This knife was found thrust deeply into the heart of my ancestor. His son was only a few years from adulthood when the news of his father’s death was received along with the murder weapon. The story goes that a unicorn by the name of Pendragon murdered the entire platoon and tortured my ancestor with this blade and not a week later was able to bring the entire kingdom to its knees.”

He poured a goblet full of wine and took a drink before continuing. “The blade glowed just prior to the end of Equestria’s Civil War. However, when the son arrived in the place that our mages had determined the swell of power originated, there were no ponies anywhere. So he watched and waited to find the one who killed his father and fulfill his thirst for revenge,” he shrieked, stabbing a chunk of meat with his fork.

“So what does your vendetta have to do with me?” Coltyn asked, feigning ignorance.

“His blood runs in you. So when your blood decorates the ground and your entrails are strewn about, revenge will be done and justice finally served,” Nathanial stated.

“How are you so sure I’m related to the one from so long ago?”

Nathanial pointed to the knife before Coltyn. “It glowed brightly as you cast a spell from Canterlot and with a little help I found a way to arrange for your trip here. Some ponies will do anything to try and forward their own pathetic ambitions,” he chuckled. He seemed to relish Coltyn’s start of surprise as he finished his main course. Coltyn was startled to learn that the griffon had a pony collaborator.

“So why didn’t you kill me already? You’ve had plenty of time. Even now it would be as simple as picking up this knife and stabbing me.”

“I’ve a much more entertaining fate planned.” Nathanial began, filling a plate with desserts. “You will entertain my subjects with a gladiatorial battle. You see, most of the time our arena is used by griffons, settling arguments by first blood.” He took a bite of cake. “But I want a real bloodbath. So you will fight an opponent of my choosing to the death.”

Coltyn shivered at the thought. “Without using my magic I assume.” Nathanial nodded. “Then you won’t be in for much of a show.” Nathanial raised an eyebrow. “I don’t know how to fight like an earth pony.”

“Don’t worry I’ll make sure that it will be a show worthy of its meaning.” Nathanial smiled slightly. “With that knowledge I’ll make sure your opponent is smart enough to take orders.” He pushed his empty plate aside. “I know just the ones to take this task. If you’ll excuse me, I must inform them.” He stood and walked to the door, Maria silently followed.

Coltyn ground teeth, his blood boiling; he swatted the plate to the floor. Snorting in frustration, he heard the door behind him open.

“Great, a dweeb pony,” came the sarcastic voice of a female griffon.

Coltyn turned to see a young griffon, brown body and white feathered head with a distinctive fire pattern around her eyes. “Who are you?”

“The unlucky one who has to deal with you,” she sneered, “and why do you care?”

“I was hoping you knew what fate Maria is facing.”

“Why should I tell a dead pony anything?” She loosed his leashes from the table but kept a firm grasp.

“She may face the same fate because I spoke with her.”

She led them down and out to the grounds around the castle wall. Giving a derisive eyeroll, she said, “That foolish hatchling was always soft. She should’ve been smart enough to know that it was going to get her in trouble sooner or later.”

“You know each other?”

“She attended the same preliminary school as me. We were both approached to attend the Junior Speedsters Flight Camp, but her daddy said no and that was that.”

“Why? It is an honor for a flying youth to be accepted there.”

“It’s run by ponies and I’m sure that you’ve seen Lord Blackclaw’s position on your kind.”

Coltyn nodded. “What is your name?” Coltyn asked, walking down a row of cells.

“Private First Class Gilda. Who are you?” she asked as she opened a cell door.

“Coltyn Pendragon,” he replied, just before he entered the cell.

“Well enjoy your stay, however short it may be,” Gilda drawled, leaving the holding area.

Coltyn sat to think he had maybe thirty-six hours to prepare and didn’t like his situation. He began to pace thinking of what to do, but his thoughts always led back to one thought, ‘I wish Thunder Snow was here.’ That thought gave him strength and he settled down and in the dirt made a list of what he needed to work on to try and be victorious.

***

Thunder Snow had looked away but the sound was unbearable; waiting what seemed like eternity before the Queen finally released Twilight from her spell and regained her normal form. Thunder Snow galloped over to Twilight as the unicorn collapsed to the ground.

“I can’t feel my legs,” Twilight said dizzily, leaning on Thunder Snow, who was holding her in her hooves.

“That was truly divine. Much more satisfying than your brother,” Chrysalis practically purred, licking her lips. A faintly bitter look came into her eyes as she commented, “I bet your red stallion doesn’t half appreciate just how pure your love for him really is. Lucky me.”

“You’re a monster,” Thunder Snow snapped, “punishing her like that.”

“That’s how it is. Now I’ll take my leave,” Chrysalis glowed, heading for the cave entrance.

“Who betrayed Coltyn to the griffons?” Thunder Snow asked before the queen left. Twilight drifted asleep.

“A pompous lying aristocrat trying to forward his own goals,” Chrysalis scorned, spreading her wings.

“What was his name?” Thunder Snow asked, her anger evident.

“What would you do if I told you?” Chrysalis asked, looking over her shoulder.

“I’ll destroy them,” Thunder Snow replied, the air around her growing colder.

Chrysalis watched Thunder Snow’s eyes turn a deep ice blue, the warm walls starting to ice over.

“Hmm, maybe I’ll let you take care of that Blueblood fool. Save me the trouble of dealing with him myself.”

Thunder Snow recalled the look Prince Blueblood gave her just before leaving, causing her anger to spike. Chrysalis took wing and left Thunder Snow and Twilight.

“That arrogant fool,” Thunder Snow whispered, gritting her teeth. “I’ll deal with him later.” She took a deep breath, shaking her head to calm herself. “Right now I need to get to Coltyn.”

Twilight had lost consciousness, leaving Thunder Snow thinking on a way to get moving. She quickly gathered a few stray clouds that were overhead, compacting them so they were dense enough to hold Twilight’s weight. She laid Twilight on the cloud and took wing using the cloud for cover as they made their way to the griffon’s territory.

It was going to be a long flight especially if she didn’t want to draw attention to them. She remembered Coltyn saying that they would work on her abilities to control weather. “No time like now,” she muttered. She focused and after a while was able to make it look like stratocumulus clouds drifting across the sky without losing the integrity of the cloud holding Twilight. ‘Now I just have to get to the Battle Stadium and rescue Coltyn,’ she thought as she propelled the clouds across the sky.

She made it to a small grove, a few hours from the griffon kingdom. She lowered the clouds creating a thick fog around the grove. She placed Twilight under a tree and gathered some of the heavily dewed foliage for Twilight. Feeling that Twilight was safe she went off to practice, not wanting to disturb Twilight.

She reached out and gathered water from the clouds, trying to get it to freeze. She stared at the water for what seemed like hours, not getting it to freeze. Frustrated, she threw the water at a nearby tree and saw hundreds of little icicles sticking out.

“How’d that happen?” Thunder Snow asked aloud.

“Focused emotions,” Twilight explained weakly.

“You should be resting,” Thunder Snow said gently. “You were taken… fairly harshly.”

“I’ll be fine. But to answer your question, magic is an exercise in not only focusing the mind but also your emotions. Magic is powerful and if the right emotions are focused with the spell, it can produce extraordinary results,” Twilight explained before she realized she was lecturing. “Sorry, my friends tell me that I shouldn’t go on long lectures to answer simple questions.” Twilight blushed.

“Please, continue. If I’m to be of any help, I must know all I can.” Thunder Snow encouraged. “I’m merely a student and you had the best teacher, so please, continue.”

Twilight gladly obliged, explaining the mechanics of attack spells and focusing emotions to create more powerful spells. Thunder Snow listened intently, asking questions and practicing various techniques, including using telekinesis on multiple objects. The moon was past its zenith when they quit and turned in for some rest. Tomorrow they would rescue Coltyn then deal with the betrayer back in Canterlot.

***

Coltyn spent his time the next morning strengthening his body preparing for the inevitable confrontation; stretching to loosening his body.

“Hey, dweeb,” Gilda called, lacking her former attitude. “Here’s your last meal.”

Coltyn took the plate and set it down. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” she snarled.

Coltyn lifted his head and raised an eyebrow. “I’ve seen that look. Something’s bothering you and I’ve got time, if you want to talk,” he offered.

“You’ll have company tomorrow.”

“Who?” Coltyn asked.

“Maria,” Gilda replied, scowling darkly.

“Has she ever seen battle?”

“She’s not a fighter and I’ve been forbidden to attend on the grounds that I might aid her.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“The opponents will delight in torturing you as long as possible. I don’t want her to know that kind of horror.” Gilda tried to hide the tear rolling down her cheek.

“You want me to kill her?”

“Only if there is no other way,” Gilda clarified.

“From what I understand, there is no way out of this except in a box,” Coltyn replied coldly.

“Just don’t let her suffer,” she demanded, sounding distressed as she turned away, taking her leave.

Coltyn sat processing the information. He ground his teeth in fury, appalled that Blackclaw would send his own daughter to her death. He kicked the cell door but it held firm against his anger. ‘It’s one thing to send me, but to send his own daughter; he must be insane,’ he thought. ‘I won’t let another soul die because of me.’ Coltyn readied himself as best he could, body and mind alike. Rehearsing the circle magic he knew along with preparing his body for tomorrow. He went to the corner, having readied the best he could, he eventually lay down to get some sleep before the nightmare began.

Coltyn woke the next morning to the sound of clanging metal entering the room. He looked up to see Maria – her wings bound – hitched to a platform with anchor chains. Warden Ironbeak and two others walked in behind her.

“Get on the platform and don’t move while we secure you,” Ironbeak ordered, showing the control for Coltyn’s muzzle.

Coltyn complied and climbed up on the platform and waited as they chained his hooves and neck to the cart. He saw that Maria’s back was freshly lacerated and the hitch dug into the wounds.

“She needs her wounds tended,” Coltyn stated concerned

Ironbeak backhanded Coltyn. “She’s dead. The dead don’t need tending.”

Coltyn clenched his teeth together, blowing his breath out through his nose and keeping his silence. He hated knowing that he couldn’t do anything, yet. Ironbeak checked the irons holding Coltyn. Satisfied he turned to Maria, “To the stadium.”

Maria didn’t move immediately which caused her to be whipped by one of the attending guards. She pulled hard, the harness digging into her flesh, and made her way to the exit. The bright sun caused Coltyn to blink, and he took a moment to let his vision clear before he looked out on a crowd of griffons. The uproar as he appeared became an unintelligible sound as they cursed and berated him; Coltyn folded his ears down to trying to block it out. He kept his eyes moving trying to find a way to escape; when a tomato hit the side of his face. He turned and saw a group of young hatchlings with a bag of rotten fruits and vegetables, following alongside him, pelting him.

It didn’t take long for others to join in. Coltyn found himself being hit on all sides, the smell of the foul vegetation turning his stomach. He didn’t know how long he was subjected to the public torment, but soon he was pulled into a large stadium. Maria and Coltyn were unhooked from the cart and put into a holding cell and left alone.

“I’m sorry I got you involved,” Coltyn said, wiping off the vegetation.

“I chose this fate,” Maria stated.

“What?!”

“He gave me two choices, either live like a griffon or die like a pony. After meeting you, I feel disgraced to have even been born.” She looked away, tears forming.

“No, you must live,” Coltyn exclaimed, lifting her head. “You are the heir to the clan and they will need a leader who can bring them out of this dark shadow and into the light.”

She gently pushed his hooves away. “I’m no leader and we won’t live to see another sunrise.”

“You know how to listen and that is the first step to becoming a great leader.” Coltyn explained. “We’ll get out of this and with your leadership; you can lead your clan to greater things then trying to settle a thousand year old vendetta.”

“But there is no way out of this,” she retorted.

“Sometimes you just have to have faith,” Coltyn said as the stadium gate opened. “Stay close, stay alive.”

Coltyn and Maria walked out into the full stadium, insults flying out of every beak. He observed the open air design and protection wards around the field of battle, protecting the spectators. Across from them near the top of the stadium an elaborately designed box stood out; Nathanial looked out on the stadium.

“Greetings fellow griffons,” Nathanial exclaimed. “Today we’ll see justice done for the crimes against our clan. Coltyn Pendragon is guilty of murder and Maria Blackclaw for conspiracy and treason.”

“She’s innocent,” Coltyn bellowed in protest which went unnoticed.

“This being the case,” Nathanial continued, “the guilty will face the three dragons that were brought down for invading our territory.”

Coltyn turned to Maria. “We’re facing dragons?” Maria nodded. “Of all creatures, it had to be dragons.” Coltyn sighed, watching warily as the gates across from them opened.

The first dragon was brown and heavy, two blue horns protruded from his head, and a sphere with small spikes at the end of his tail. The second was purple and spindly, golden hair covered his eyes, and small spikes ran from his the middle of his head to his tail. The third was red and strong, an orange crest ran from the middle of his head down his spine. The dragons walked slightly unevenly, as all their wings were bound.

“Let the execution begin!”

“So, which one of you wants the griffon?” The red dragon inquired, looking at his companions.

“I want her,” the purple one exclaimed, licking his lips. “She looks delicious.” Maria shuddered in disgust.

“I’ll take the pony,” the brown one stated, “more meat on his bones.”

The two dragons started to close on Coltyn and Maria who backed away. “We’ll charge them and just before you get within their reach break right and I’ll go left behind you.”

“Are you mad?” Maria asked.

“We need to get these two out of this fight. Please, trust me.” Maria nodded as they took another step back. “GO!” Coltyn shouted. Maria ran straight at the dragons as Coltyn kept pace with her. The dragons quickened their approach, their prey drawing closer.

“Break!” Coltyn shouted. Maria complied and quickly planted her hind legs and maneuvered right. Coltyn hesitated for a moment to let Maria past him and took off to the left. The dragons turned to follow their claims causing them to slam into each other.

Coltyn stopped and turned, seeing the two dragons fighting but couldn’t find the third till his fist connected to his face.

“Bet you think you’re really clever, don’t you?” the red dragon sneered.

“Not really,” Coltyn replied, rubbing his face.

“We’ll see how far that’ll get you,” the red dragon stated, grabbing Coltyn’s back hoof. “Hey numbskulls, deal with the pony first.” Coltyn found himself flying towards the two bickering dragons.

“What’s that, Garble,” they said in unison, turning just as Coltyn made contact.

Coltyn quickly gained his hooves, seeing that Maria was safe, turned his attention to the two dragons on the ground. Coltyn galloped toward the brown dragon that was on his knees, planting his front hooves, turned and bucked the dragon’s face. A sickening crack was heard; the dragon screamed holding the side of his head, blood flowing down his face. Coltyn reared up again and connected with the dragon’s chest, breaking some ribs. The brown dragon was down; Coltyn looked for the purple one but didn’t see him until his tail struck his side.

“You’re going to pay for that!” the dragon threatened.

Coltyn slowly got to his hooves, holding his side. “Most likely,” Coltyn replied, spitting blood.

The purple dragon charged; Coltyn tried to dodge the attack but the pain in his side caused him to hesitate and the dragon’s tail connected again, sending Coltyn tumbling. He knew that he couldn’t keep his focus on surviving while dealing with the pain in his side and quickly drew a rune in the dirt. A soft white glow emanated from the rune and Coltyn’s side, relieving the pain.

“Your pony tricks won’t save you,” the dragon threatened, turning to attack.

“They don’t have to,” Coltyn stated, charging the dragon.

The purple dragon wasn’t expecting Coltyn’s charge. He was moving too fast to turn and tried to jump over Coltyn. Seeing this Coltyn threw his head up, his horn embedding in the soft underbelly of the dragon. However the sudden change in momentum swept him from his hooves, flipping him over and causing him to land hard on his back.

Coltyn coughed as he rolled to his hooves, regaining his focus as he approached the dragon. The purple dragon lay clutching his side, shuddering in pain and trying in vain to hold his intestines in as blood flowed freely from his wound. Coltyn looked down on the dragon who was about to speak. Coltyn’s hoof hit his head, robbing him of consciousness.

Coltyn looked around trying to find Maria. She had been captured by Garble, who was holding her so her neck was exposed.

“You don’t seem to know how this works,” Garble stated. “We kill you, are let go, and can continue on to that little pony town to deal with the ones who humiliated me.”

“What little pony town?” Coltyn asked, catching his breath.

“Ponyville,” Garble hissed, “to deal with a baby and his pony friends.”

“Then I can’t let you win. They are my friends too, and I’ll not let a dragon like you bring harm to them.”

“Then you’ll be the first casualty, narwhal,” Garble sneered, tossing Maria aside, tensing to attack.

“Do your worst, lava brain,” Coltyn taunted.

The two started to circle, sizing each other up. Coltyn planted his back hoof and charged; his horn down. Garble closed quickly; planted his front claws and swung his body around hitting Coltyn’s front hooves. Coltyn fell on his face, trying to get back up he felt claws dig into the back of his neck. Garble spun Coltyn lifting him off the ground and bringing him back down on his side hard then throwing him to the side.

Coltyn coughed and gasped, trying to fill his lungs. He staggered, scrambling to get his front hooves under him. Before he could Garble grabbed him by his throat.

“I’m an alpha dragon,” he hissed, lifting Coltyn. “No one is better than me.” Reaching back, Garble buried his fist in Coltyn’s stomach.

Coltyn struggled, his body trying to vomit, but Garble clenched his throat shut. He threw Coltyn to the ground, his body coughing up a mixture of food and blood. Before he could catch his breath his tail was grasped and the sharp yank sent him skyward. Coltyn felt weightless, his back legs refusing to move, before falling back to earth. The impact caused him to cough up more blood; he lay there, gasping for air when he was lifted by Garble.

“See, no little pony is a match for a dragon,” Garble stated, punching Coltyn’s face.

“It’d be different if I had my magic,” Coltyn wheezed.

“I doubt that,” Garble scoffed, raising his fist. “You’re just a weak little pony,” he stated, punching Coltyn with every word; the last hit letting Coltyn fall to the ground, bloodied. “You’ve saved no one, Ponyville will burn, and that griffon will be my slave.”

Coltyn couldn’t help but let bloodied tears flow. He was held up to Nathanial; Garble standing victoriously.

Nathanial’s beak twisted with glee. “Finish him!” he roared.

Garble set Coltyn down and raised his fist. A sudden chill wind made Coltyn look up, and he gasped as he saw a bank of fast moving storm clouds rolling in overhead.

“It looks like snow,” Coltyn whispered in slight disbelief, blinking as the revelation of his imminent rescue struck him, an instant before Garble’s fist slammed into his throat, collapsing his windpipe and sending him tumbling across the field to land in front of Maria.

“COLTYN!!!” A voice thundered from the clouds. A streak of lightning impacted near Coltyn’s body as forms appeared.

The gathered griffons shifted in their seats, chattering excitedly at the sudden turn of events. Garble was holding his head as the thunder clap had deafened him temporarily. Nathanial had been warned that there might be another pony to deal with as a sadistic smile cross his beak.

“Kill the intruders!” Nathanial commanded.

A volley of spears fell where the lightning had struck but all bounced off a purple, opaque bubble that had formed.

Under Twilight’s protection, Thunder Snow was instantly by Coltyn’s side.

“Who did this to him?” Thunder Snow asked the griffon.

“The dragon was ordered to by my father,” Maria answered, pleading. “Please help him, he saved my life.”

Thunder Snow was skeptical but she didn’t have much time as Twilight was still recovering. She grabbed the locking mechanism of his muzzle, crushed it with her magic, and pulled it off Coltyn. Immediately his horn glowed black as wounds started to mend themselves.

“Take her back up to the clouds. Stay in cover until it’s safe,” Thunder Snow explained.

“What’s happening to him?” Maria asked, curious.

“It’ll be alright. Go!” Thunder Snow ordered.

Twilight nodded and with another flash only Thunder Snow stood by Coltyn’s body. The dust cleared from where the barrier once stood as Thunder Snow looked out seeing many confused griffons, a dragon and up in a spectator box a griffon that looked down upon the battlefield.

“Welcome Princess,” Nathanial announced. “I’m sorry you weren’t here to see his demise but I’ve been expecting you.” A sadistic smile crossed his beak. “Garble, half my treasury is yours if you kill the princess.”

“Now that’s a deal I can’t pass up,” Garble grinned, feeling the bonds fall from his wings.

“You will stand down, dragon,” Thunder Snow ordered, not backing away.

“You’ve a better offer?”

“You get to leave in one piece,” she replied softly, the air around her growing colder.

“I like his offer better,” Garble smirked, charging the princess.

Thunder Snow looked down, her horn glowed as she lifted the dragon off his feet. “I’ll only say this once. Leave!”

“Not a chance.” Garble took a deep breath, releasing a line of fire at the princess.

She released him to dodge the fire. Garble took wing and dived for the princess. She charged her horn and loosed lightning bolts at him. She was able to catch one of his wings, sending him tumbling. He landed on his feet and charged her. Her eyes glowed white, the ground under the dragon’s feet turned to ice sending him sliding into the wall. He turned as u-shaped icicles pinned his neck and arms to the wall, a dagger leveled to slit his throat.

“You’re out of your league, dragon,” Thunder Snow warned.

“Please don’t kill me,” Garble pleaded.

“So you believe that it’s acceptable for you to murder others, but when your own life is on the line you plead for mercy?” Thunder Snow berated, letting him feel the blade. “You are the lowest kind of coward.”

“I’ll do anything, just please spare me.”

Thunder Snow thought for a moment, sighed, sheathed her dagger, and let the icicle start to melt. Garble let a sigh of relief before a spear buried itself deep into his chest.

“I knew he was a weak fool,” a griffon stated. He was clad in heavy armor with gauntlets that covered his claws, reinforcing them.

“So you’re the one who ordered this?” Thunder Snow asked.

“I am.”

“Who are you?”

“Lord Nathanial Blackclaw and what’s your name, princess?”

“Princess Wintra Thunder Snow, why did you abduct Coltyn?”

“He’s the descendent of a murderer. We wanted justice to be done.”

“What’s your proof?” Thunder Snow inquired, wondering how much he really knew about Coltyn.

“When he uses magic,” Nathanial began, pulling a knife from a box, “this blade glows, like this.”

Thunder Snow smirked as the blade in his claw glowed with a dark aura. Nathanial looked at the blade in bewilderment as it was pulled from his claw and hovered by Coltyn who had gotten back on his hooves.

“How are you alive?” Nathanial demanded.

Coltyn pointed to his horn, “Magic. Now give up your position to your daughter, Maria.”

“Never! I am Lord of this clan!” Nathanial screeched, charging Coltyn.

Coltyn teleported over to Thunder Snow, smiling weakly, “Thanks for coming.”

“I’m just glad I found you,” Thunder Snow whispered, blushing slightly.

Nathanial turned around, anger and hate filling his eyes.

“End this before more blood is spilled,” Coltyn pleaded.

“No, I will see you dead even if I must tear your head off myself,” Nathanial exclaimed. “Guards! Kill them!”

“I’ll handle the cavalry and keep Twilight and the griffon safe; you deal with the boss,” Thunder Snow said, flapping her wings.

Coltyn nodded; Thunder Snow took to the sky. He turned his attention to Nathanial.

“You dare face me alone? You’re even more foolish than I thought,” Nathanial said.

“You’re the fool,” Coltyn hissed. “Sentencing your own daughter to death, you have no right to lead. Step down.” He leveled the knife at Nathanial.

“You don’t get it; I have to die for her to claim my title.” Nathanial laughed. “That weakling couldn’t hurt a fly let alone take my life.”

“Then my task is clear,” Coltyn said, dark wisps emanating from his eyes.

Nathanial took wing, spreading his claws. Coltyn readied the blade with his magic. Nathanial dived, swinging a claw at Coltyn’s head. He blocked the strike with the knife seeing that metal protected his palm; the other claw swiped for his midsection. His claws struck a ten-pointed star shield, Coltyn head-butted the griffon. Nathanial stumbled backwards but quickly charged bringing both claws down to rend Coltyn’s face. Coltyn retrieved the spear from Garble’s chest to catch the blow as he teleported above and landed on the griffon’s back. Breaking the spear, Nathanial proved to be stronger than Coltyn thought. Taking to the sky, Nathanial spun and rolled, shaking Coltyn from his back and causing him to drop the knife. Coltyn teleported away, landing on a disk of energy.

“You’re more formidable than I thought,” Nathanial said, flexing his claws.

“You have no idea,” Coltyn replied flatly.

Nathanial laughed manically, charging Coltyn. Coltyn conjured two shields blocking his strikes. Waiting he let one of the strikes swing past him before hitting his wrist with a bolt of force, causing him to shake his claw to remove the slight numbing feeling.

“You can’t win,” Coltyn screamed. “End this!”

Nathanial charged, “It will end with your death,” he shrieked, burying his claws into the conjured shields.

Coltyn grabbed him with his magic, “You can’t kill me. I’m not the decedent, I am The Pendragon. There has never been another. Your ancestor’s troop killed my family and I ruthlessly slaughtered them all,” Coltyn sneered, seeing the shock on Nathanial’s face, “blood for blood.”

Coltyn pushed him away. Any strategy Nathanial had disappeared and was replaced by blind rage. Levitating himself, the two charged each other, sparks flying every time magic and claw clashed. Coltyn, wanting the conflict to end, charged. He parried Nathanial’s reaching claws and placed his horn to Nathanial’s head. Wrapped in his black aura, Coltyn whispered, “Avasculate,” causing Nathanial to purge blood from every orifice.

“FATHER!” Maria shouted, his bloody body falling back to earth.

Coltyn teleported to where Nathanial landed. “You’ll pay for your crimes and what you did to Maria,” Coltyn said coldly. Nathanial’s body was levitated, his limbs and wings stretched out, as runes were cast onto them.

In a flash Maria was holding onto her father’s bloodied body, Twilight teleporting next to Coltyn. “What are these runes for?” Twilight asked.

“It’s a spell I made. It will kill him.” Coltyn explained darkly. Seeing Maria’s eyes full of tears, he added, “I can either finish the spell or let him go. It’s your choice.”

“I have to slay him to take his title,” Maria said. She looked up at her father, taking up the knife. “I, Maria Blackclaw, claim my father’s title as lord of the Blackclaw Clan.” Tears flowed from her eyes as slit her father’s throat. “I’m sorry.”

Coltyn released Nathanial, letting his body fall with a smile on his face. The guards began chanting, ‘Hail Lady Blackclaw’, causing Maria to blush, through the tears. Thunder Snow spiraled down, back winging to land beside Coltyn.

“Congratulations, Lady Blackclaw,” Coltyn smiled. “Hopefully we can begin settling our differences and together work for a better future.”

“That sounds wonderful,” Maria smiled, wiping the tears away, “and thank you, Princess Wintra and Miss Twilight, if you hadn’t shown up, I fear things would have turned out much worse.”

“It was the least we could do,” Twilight demurred.

“Well, for coming to the rescue you’re all welcome to stay in the castle tonight and head home tomorrow,” Maria offered.

“That would be fine,” Thunder Snow accepted. “I have some questions about who helped abduct Coltyn.”

“I’m sure my father has records somewhere, he keeps them on everything that happens in his lands. Well, kept, anyway,” Maria stated, showing them to the castle. “I’ll begin searching for them right away.”

Twilight and Maria started off toward the castle. Coltyn looked at Thunder Snow, who reared and knocked him to his rump with a foreleg kick to the shoulder.

“That’s for scaring me,” Thunder Snow snapped, then leaned in and kissed his cheek. “That’s for everything else.” She wheeled then and galloped to catch up to Twilight and Lady Maria, leaving Coltyn pondering what happened. Touching the spot she’d kissed, he smiled, got to his hooves, and followed them.

Chapter 14: Nobility Falls

They were led to the baths so they could wash up from the battle. Afterwards, Maria led the ponies to a large guest chamber in the castle. “Please make yourselves comfortable. I’ll see to finding what documents I can find about recent events and have food and beverages sent up. Please excuse me.”

Coltyn turned to Twilight and Thunder Snow, “How did you find me?”

“We had some help,” Thunder Snow began, taking a seat, “from the changelings.”

Coltyn raised an eyebrow, and Twilight clarified as she settled into her own seat. “One of Chrysalis’s changelings was hired to lure you into the trap. We were able to figure out where they went, and followed.”

Coltyn noticed that Twilight shifted uncomfortably and changed subjects. “Thank you for coming to my rescue.” Coltyn smiled, sitting next to Thunder Snow. “I know Nathanial mentioned a pony helped him, do you have any leads as to who it could be?”

“Yes,” Thunder Snow hissed. “But it’s only Chrysalis’s word, and the fact that Nathanial expected me makes me wonder if he was working alone.”

Twilight cocked her head. “What makes you think that?”

“I know a few ponies that would be very envious of the position I’ve been elevated to,” Thunder Snow explained. “Canterlot’s elite have a pecking order and set ways of ascending in standing: accumulation of wealth, being accepted by those above you, or marrying into a standing.”

Twilight scratched her head. “I don’t remember reading anything like that?”

Coltyn chuckled. “You stood at the top as Princess Celestia’s personal student.”

“Not to mention that your parents were high elite ponies in their own circles and your brother now stands equal with Princess Cadance,” Thunder Snow added. “The fact that I ascended from a working class pegasus to Princess all of a sudden would have gotten under some ponies’ fur. I have my guesses as to whom, but without evidence it’s not worth worrying about.”

The doors opened and a griffon brought in a cart filled with an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables, and a large carafe of water. The ponies continued chatting until they finished their meals.

Twilight yawned. “I think I’m going to curl up and sleep. I’m still exhausted.”

Thunder Snow and Coltyn nodded as Twilight took a pillow to the corner and laid down. Coltyn looked out the window and the sun hadn’t touched the horizon yet. “What happened to her? She’s usually not tired before the sun sets,” Coltyn asked, curious.

“She paid dearly to get us here,” Thunder Snow replied. “She allowed Chrysalis to feed from her love for Big Macintosh without restraint in order to let us rescue you.”

Coltyn felt a pang of guilt. “That’s a high price to pay.”

“I found you, so it wasn’t for nothing,” Thunder Snow admitted, blushing slightly.

Coltyn placed his hoof on hers. “I’m glad you came for me.”

Their moment was broken when the doors open and Maria entered holding a stack of papers under her wing. “I think I have what you’ll need.”

Thunder Snow and Coltyn joined Maria to go through the papers. “I found the contracts that he drew up,” She explained, pulling out a folder. “This is the one that caught my eye.”

She pulled out a document that explained the conditions of payment and was signed with three names. The first was Nathanial’s, the second was in an unfamiliar language which the ponies presumed was that of the changelings, but the third was elegantly written by Prince Blueblood.

“The prince?” Coltyn queried. “Why would he stoop to such a level?”

“My best guess is jealousy,” Thunder Snow offered, her face drawn into a pensive frown. “Or maybe something else. But with this we have a starting point.”

Coltyn nodded. Maria pulled out another page and summarized. “This was a payment arrangement. Nathanial paid half up front to have Coltyn led to the trap and upon his death the final payment was to be delivered.”

“Does it say where the delivery it to take place,” Thunder Snow wondered.

Maria nodded, “It said, ‘Behind Joe’s Donut Shop’, three days after today.”

“Are you thinking of catching these ponies in the act?” Coltyn asked.

“If we can get them at the deal we’ll have a solid case,” Thunder Snow informed. “May we have these for evidence?”

Maria nodded, placing the papers back into the folder. “I’ll leave you to your business. Please inform Princess Celestia that the Black Claw Clan would like to open negotiations for trade.”

“I’m sure she will welcome the news,” Coltyn accepted.

Maria took her leave. Thunder Snow opened the folder and examined the contents again.

“What’s on your mind?” Coltyn wondered.

“I just get the feeling that Blueblood wasn’t the only player in this game,” Thunder Snow admitted.

“What makes you think that?” Coltyn queried. “His name is on the paper.”

“It’s never simple with Canterlot’s elite,” Thunder Snow explained. “He may have just been made to think his position was in jeopardy. There are more subtle ponies in the elite game that would be overjoyed to see us both out of the picture. You were a relative non-entity before you were suddenly appointed as Royal advisor, and I have some old enemies among the beau monde of Canterlot society. There are those who would cheerfully see me dead, purely because they fear I would tell my mother of their past sins.”

Coltyn gave her a considering look. “You know, I think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard you call Princess Celestia your mother.”

Thunder Snow sighed. “It’s … an adjustment … to think of her as such, but if I am to fully accept the changes in my life, I have to acknowledge that I am her daughter. I do not love my parents any less for accepting my mother into my life, and she has not asked me to reject them.”

“I don’t think she would, actually. The Princess is a compassionate leader, and she has to know you love the parents she chose for you.”

Thunder Snow nodded, her attention only half focused on the conversation as she read the contract again, a plan taking shape in her mind.

“Apprehending Blueblood won’t be a problem. It’s getting the one or more others Nathanial was to pay without raising suspicion,” Thunder Snow muttered.

“Disguises,” Coltyn suggested.

“Where are we going to get disguises?”

“I have potions that can copy another’s appearance, flawlessly,” Coltyn offered proudly.

“How flawless,” Thunder Snow queried.

“I did slip through the ages without raising suspicions and was undetectable from Princess Celestia’s best mages,” he pointed out.

“So what do you need?”

“I have a clear image in my mind, which will be enough.”

Thunder Snow nodded, and with a glance at the moonlit sky framed by the window, gave a short yawn. “We should turn in.”

Coltyn agreed; they took pillows and joined Twilight each getting comfortable before drifting to sleep.

***

The next couple days Maria, Gilda, Coltyn, Twilight, and Thunder Snow began to strengthen their friendship. They took a tour of the Black Claw’s territory and shared past experiences. Maria seemed curious about unicorn magic and how it worked.

Soon, they had to part ways. While saying their goodbyes, Maria offered a scroll to Thunder Snow. “I have written a brief statement to Princess Celestia, explaining the situation and that if needed we can be reached for further questions.”

“I hope this is the beginning of a long allegiance between us,” Thunder Snow smiled, taking the proffered scroll.

Maria nodded, offering to provide transportation back to Canterlot. Thunder Snow declined in favor of showing Coltyn what she learned while he was away. Maria nodded, waving farewell as they walked to the outskirts of the town.

Thunder Snow gathered a few clouds with her magic and compacted them into a dense mass that was able to hold both Coltyn and Twilight. With their cloud ride ready, the three of them began the trip to Canterlot.

***

They arrived before dawn on the day of the payment. Thunder Snow slowed the cloud pulling close to the mountain, blending in with the static clouds that surrounded the peak. Two quick teleports and Coltyn had his special shapeshifting potion and a sack.

“You should go to the castle and apprehend Blueblood. I’ll meet you there with our mystery pony,” Coltyn offered.

“Will you be ok?” Thunder Snow wondered.

Coltyn nodded, “Even though I’ll look like a griffon, I’ll still have access to my magic.”

He uncorked the bottle. Thunder Snow noticed the unpleasant smell before he consumed it. Slowly Coltyn transformed, his body becoming longer and muscles increasing. His hooves changed into recognizable black claws, his body extending and taking on the lion form as his head took on the appearance of a very familiar eagle.

“Does it hurt?” Thunder Snow questioned.

Nathanial shook his head, “No, but the potion tastes horrible,” he joked.

They had a short laugh before Twilight teleported herself and Thunder Snow to the castle. Coltyn glided in the direction of Joe’s Donut Shop and landed a few blocks away. Walking through the back alleys to Joe’s Donut Shop he rounded the corner into the alley, and watched as a cloaked pony came from the other end.

“Were you satisfied with the gift?” a female voice asked with a high class Canterlot accent.

“Indeed,” Nathanial smiled, “he proved very entertaining.”

“What of the other one I warned about?” she asked.

“She has satisfied three very unruly dragons,” he smirked evilly, “in many ways.”

The mare let out an evil chuckle, “And you have the payment,” she asked, eagerly.

Nathanial nodded pulling the sack from under his wing and offered it to the mare. She took the sack and upon opening it manacles launched outward, clasping onto her neck and front hooves.

“What is the meaning of this?” the mare demanded.

“You’re under arrest by authority of the Princess Wintra,” Coltyn said letting his disguise fall.

She recoiled as Coltyn pulled down her hood with his magic, revealing a butter yellow mare with a purple mane and a white streak. She glared at Coltyn, anger and hatred in her eyes. “How did you survive?” she snarled.

“If you knew me, you’d know,” Coltyn sneered dismissively.

She began to charge her magic and let a bolt of raw magic fly at Coltyn. It struck the side of his head causing him to turn but he didn’t lose his hooves.

“Sloppy execution and woefully underpowered, you barely had enough behind that to hurt a fly,” Coltyn criticized, looking down at the mare. “Now come quietly and this doesn’t have to end poorly.”

She snorted angrily, firing more force bolts at Coltyn. “I won’t be taken easily,” she scorned, pulling on the shackles.

“That’s why I brought the shackles,” Coltyn explained, lowering a shield.

Then, unexpectedly, she charged slamming into him, knocking him off his hooves. She set to pulling off the shackles with her magic. She freed her hooves before movement pulled her attention from freeing her neck.

“You should have come quietly,” Coltyn scolded, standing up.

“You don’t scare me,” she spat, throwing down the last shackle.

“You tried to kill Princess Wintra by using me. I take that very personally.” Coltyn approached her.

“Awe, the nopony likes Windigo,” she mocked.

“You will show her respect,” Coltyn commanded.

“You wouldn’t dare lay a hoof on me,” she challenged.

“In another time I would’ve done much worse.” An evil smirk crossed his muzzle as he circled her. “Physical torture, mental distress,” he chuckled, “so many ways to turn the strongest willed ponies into sniveling heaps.”

“I’m not afraid of you,” she sneered. In spite of her bravado, he could see that she was shaken, though she still stood her ground. “You are a nopony. You can’t frighten me.”

“I don’t have to; fear can take many forms,” Coltyn responded, approaching her – his horn glowing.

With every step his shadow grew around him and she tried to back away but backed into a wall. He let his shadow grow and tower over her, blocking out all the light, as his aura pushed down on her. She tried to hold but her knees buckled under the oppressive force of his presence. She felt like she was being crushed and her heart pounded in panic. Then suddenly, it was gone; she looked around, quivering. She only saw the alley and Coltyn who she averted her eyes from.

“Now, come with me,” Coltyn ordered.

She nodded, fear evident in her movements. Coltyn covered her face before teleporting her back to the castle.

***

Twilight and Thunder Snow appeared in Twilight’s personal library in the castle. Spike was overjoyed to see them, embracing Twilight in a hug. She gently broke away letting him know that there was still important matters to attend to. The two headed to see Princess Celestia, who was holding court. They arrived and Thunder Snow quickly looked inside, immediately spotting Fancy Pants and Prince Blueblood talking with the Princess. Thunder Snow ordered the guards to follow her, opening the doors. Celestia looked up, seeing Twilight and Thunder Snow; she wondered what news they had.

“Prince Blueblood,” Thunder Snow announced. The prince froze, the arrogantly bored expression on his face instantly turning to shock and fear, as he slowly turned to look at Thunder Snow. “You are under arrest.” Thunder Snow stopped, allowing the guards to restrain Prince Blueblood who was silent.

“If I may inquire as to the charges?” Fancy Pants requested, raising his monocle to his eye.

Floating the scroll out of her saddlebag, she unrolled it to show Blueblood’s signature, “We’ll start with treason and conspiracy to commit murder,” Thunder Snow replied flatly.

“Father, I…” Blueblood began only to be cut off sharply by a gesture from Fancy Pants.

Celestia frowned. “Those are very serious claims. What proof do you have?” she asked. Thunder Snow levitated the parchment to Celestia who carefully read and scrutinized the page. “Where is Coltyn right now?” she asked, looking around the room.

“There’s at least one other pony involved. He’s gone to apprehend them,” Thunder Snow explained. “He’ll return here with the perpetrators.”

Looking at one of her pegasus guards, Celestia commanded, “Get a message to Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor in Saddle Arabia. They will have to cut their honeymoon short as we need them to return immediately.” Turning to Wintra she asked, “Who are the other two signatures on the page?”

“One is the late Lord Nathanial Blackclaw and the other we assume is written in changeling,” Twilight clarified. “This parchment outlined payment after Coltyn’s execution.”

“How deeply were the changelings involved?” Celestia worried.

“We’re not sure,” Thunder Snow admitted, “but whatever deals were made, Queen Chrysalis didn’t like the results.”

“You dealt with her?” Celestia questioned, cautiously.

Twilight nodded and shivered, looking away, “She helped us get to Coltyn before it was too late.”

“I see,” Celestia nodded, realizing from Twilight’s body language that there was more than what she was being told, but willing to wait for an explanation. “Did you know that changelings were involved?” she asked Blueblood.

“Yes, the griffon hired it to lure Coltyn into the trap. I was there to make sure the trap worked,” Blueblood explained. “The payment given to the changeling was a fraction of the proposed price. The griffon threated to kill it and it quickly teleported away.”

“What made you do this?” Celestia asked.

“I thought I was saving Equestria,” Blueblood admitted, looking chagrined. “The griffon claimed that Coltyn was a cold-blooded murderer and the cloaked pony with him claimed that Princess Wintra was part windigo and was trying to plunge Equestria into chaos.”

Celestia nodded, turning back to Wintra, “What happed to Lord Black Claw?”

“He threatened my life and Coltyn defeated him. The new Lady had to claim his life in order to take his place,” Thunder Snow explained.

“I would like to have reports on what happened so I have a clearer understanding of events. Those responsible will remain in custody until Shining Armor and Princess Cadance return. They will handle the sentencing,” Celestia specified. Giving Blueblood and her guards a commanding look, she waited until he had bowed and allowed the guards to lead him away.

“Why? We have all the evidence we need to convict them now,” Thunder Snow objected.

“Be that as it may, you were directly involved,” Celestia explained. “We will wait for the return of Princess Cadance and Shining Armor; it will allow us to deal with the situation rationally without anger clouding our judgment.”

After a moment’s thought, Thunder Snow nodded, “That makes sense. I have something else here for you, as well,” she added, retrieving another scroll, “This is a letter from the new leader of the Blackclaw Clan.”

Celestia looked over the scroll before rolling it up. “I will reply to her later. Right now I would like you two to begin work on your reports,” Celestia instructed.

“Of course, Princess,” Twilight and Thunder Snow replied, bowing.

They left to return to Twilight’s room to let Spike know what was happening. Coltyn rounded the corner down from Twilight’s room and joined them.

“Did you get them?” Thunder Snow asked, hopeful.

“I did. I just gave her to the guards. I was just on my way to see you,” Coltyn confirmed, smiling as they entered Twilight’s room.

“I’m still confused, there are only a few ways gain the title of prince,” Twilight commented, gaining the other ponies’ attention. “He hasn’t married into the family and with Fancy Pants being his father; I don’t think he’s a descendent.”

“Then the only conclusion is that Fancy Pants was Princess Celestia’s consort,” Coltyn offered. Thunder Snow and Twilight gave him matching looks of confusion. “An ancient law that states that any consort a princess chooses will be formally granted the title of Prince. It’s likely that Fancy Pants doesn’t use the title because it would harm his social status. He is quite successful, and socially powerful in his own right. As Prince Consort, however, his social capital would actually diminish, as his standing would be entirely dependent upon the favor shown him by the Princess. But his son, Blueblood, would be eligible to use the title because of his father, and as his own accomplishments are… effectively nonexistent, he would see value in cultivating a close relationship with the Princess. If that is the case, then anypony who rises above him in status could be perceived as a threat to his own position in society,” he explained.

Thunder Snow looked thoughtful for a moment, and then asked cautiously, “So you’re saying that my father is Fancy Pants?”

“That’s a question only Princess Celestia can answer,” Coltyn deferred. “I’m just making an educated guess based upon what I know of the laws.”

“I’m so lost,” Spike admitted.

“That’s okay,” Coltyn smiled, “royal lineage can be very confusing.”

After a round of nods in agreement to that pointed statement, their conversation moved on to other topics. After catching up and answering Spike’s many questions, Coltyn took his leave to take care of the work that had no doubt piled up during his absence. Twilight asked Spike to go with Coltyn and help him with anything he could, which Coltyn gladly accepted.

Twilight noticed the way Thunder Snow looked after Coltyn as the silver stallion left. “You should tell him,” she said bluntly.

Thunder Snow looked at Twilight. “Tell him what?” she asked, confused.

“How you feel about him.”

“I couldn’t,” Thunder Snow sighed.

“You should.” Twilight smiled, and explained, “I remember being that loner bookworm who didn’t put any effort into making friends.” She let out a short laugh. “Princess Celestia had to force me out to socialize.”

“But it’s not the same,” Thunder Snow argued.

“No, it’s not and yet… it is. The fact is that you have to put forth the effort,” Twilight countered.

“He’s so much older than me, not to mention he was with Princess Luna.”

“That was a long time ago,” Twilight offered. “If you both care for each other age shouldn’t matter.”

“But what if he doesn’t feel the same way? I’ve been through that once and I don’t want to do it again.”

“Well,” Twilight chose her words carefully, “You have deep feelings for him and the only way you’ll know is to ask him. Otherwise you’ll make yourself miserable wondering, and you’ll never know.”

Thunder Snow tried to find a retort but couldn’t. Twilight’s logic was sound. Thunder Snow sighed. “You’re right. I’ll have a talk with him later,” she finally decided, determination ringing in her voice.

Twilight smiled. “Good. The sooner you find out the better; it’ll set your mind at ease.” She pulled out a quill and paper to begin writing her report.

Thunder Snow nodded, excusing herself. She slowly walked the path to Coltyn’s office thinking about what she wanted to say and how best to broach the subject of what she needed to ask him. She stood at his door, wanting to know the answers but also fearing she may not like them. After a short debate with herself, she knocked on the door.

“Hello, Princess Wintra,” Spike welcomed warmly, opening the door.

“Hi, Spike,” she greeted, smiling at the little dragon. “Would you please excuse us? I have some matters to discuss with Coltyn.”

Spike nodded and left the two ponies alone. Coltyn, upon hearing Thunder Snow at the door, put his quill down.

“I have to know something,” Thunder Snow began, deciding to dispense with any preliminaries in favor of getting directly to the point as she approached his desk. “Do you like me?”

Coltyn was caught off-guard by her question. “Of course I like you,” Coltyn responded carefully.

“So you just like me, like a friend,” Thunder Snow frowned, dropping her chin and averting her eyes from him, her stance becoming despondent.

Coltyn blinked, realized what she was asking, and walked around his desk to approach her. Placing a hoof under her chin, he lifted her head to make her meet his eyes. “I’d give up all eternity to spend one lifetime with you,” he said softly, looking seriously into her blue-violet eyes.

She smiled, a bit uncertainly, and leaned forward, pressing her head against his neck. Coltyn pulled her in tightly against his chest, laying his head across her neck. Time seemed to stand still as they shared the embrace, expressing their feelings for each other for the first time. Eventually, Thunder Snow pulled away, a worried expression on her face.

“I must know… do you still have feelings for Princess Luna?” Thunder Snow asked, dread in her voice.

Coltyn shook his head. “Not the way I once did. I still care about her, and am honored to call her my friend, but the love we had was a very long time ago. Those feelings were laid to rest long ago.”

“Have you… been with anypony else?” she queried, hesitantly.

Coltyn shook his head again, “No. Nightmare Moon was my first intimate love, and afterwards my life was about revenge… until you. You were my salvation, and you have become my hope. My saving grace, if you will.” Coltyn blushed, and then declared. “I’ll have to inform Princess Celestia that I wish to court you.”

“Court?” Thunder Snow questioned. “I thought we would just go on a date or something.”

“Relationships, like nearly everything else, are a little different when you’re royalty,” Coltyn said gently. “Everypony in Equestria is watching you, looking to you to set an example. There are traditions to be followed. It can be very difficult.”

“I don’t think it needs to be. Well, not yet, anyway. We shouldn’t have to worry about other ponies’ opinions.”

“Perhaps not, but I would still prefer to do this right. I don’t want anypony mistaking my intentions. You are far too important to me to allow that. We can wait on going public for a while, though,” Coltyn chuckled. “I still think we should tell your mother.”

Thunder Snow nodded, “Yes, that’s probably a good idea.” She turned and headed for the door. “See you tomorrow?”

Coltyn nodded, once, before closing the door behind her. He placed his head against it, his eyes overflowing with tears as his emotions overcame him, “Thank you for saving me,” he whispered, heard by none other than himself.

***

Having made himself presentable, Coltyn approached the doors to the royal dining area. He was hoping to catch the ruling sisters at their evening meal. He was nervous about asking to court Thunder Snow but with a few steadying breaths he entered, seeing Princess Celestia and Princess Luna announced himself.

“Princess Celestia, may I have a word with you? In private?” Coltyn asked, bowing.

Celestia raised her brow at his behavior before turning to her sister. “I’ll be back in a moment,” she smiled, leading him an adjoining room. “What brings you here at this hour?”

Coltyn looked down, scraping the ground with his hoof, before taking a steady breath. “Princess Celestia, I, Coltyn Pendragon, ask your permission to court Princess Wintra Thunder Snow,” Coltyn recited, the same way he recited it in his head over and over.

Celestia stepped back, questions filling her mind, but quickly regained her composure. “Why do you ask?”

“I want you to know my intentions are pure. Princess Wintra approached me first,” Coltyn clarified. “At first it was just getting to know her. But at the wedding when Shining Armor asked to have me join the wedding party, I initially refused. But when he told me that Princess Wintra had requested it,” a stray tear escaped his eye, “I couldn’t say no.”

Celestia smiled, “You have my blessing.”

Coltyn bowed deeply, “Thank you, Princess. I would ask that this not get out until after the sentencing is finished.”

Celestia nodded, opening the door and returning to the main room where she resumed her seat beside her sister. Coltyn headed for his suite a smile on his face.

Chapter 15: Trials

Shining Armor and Cadance returned to Canterlot just before sundown. Wintra, Twilight, and Coltyn filled them in on why they were called back.

“You had to deal with that bug, again?” Shining Armor fumed.

“Shining, please,” Cadance soothed, trying to calm her enraged husband.

“We didn’t want to, but she caught us before we could leave the caves,” Wintra explained.

“Please don’t be upset,” Twilight pleaded. “She didn’t give us a choice.”

“Well at least you’re both safe,” Shining snorted. “So who caused this whole mess?”

“The two ponies involved are Prince Blueblood and Upper Crust,” Coltyn answered.

Both Shining Armor and Cadance looked surprised. “Are you sure?” Cadance asked, having known both of the accused from social gatherings.

Wintra nodded. “The prince had his name on a contract and Upper Crust was caught red hoofed.”

“Well, even though I would like to banish them from Equestria,” Shining Armor sighed, “we should hear what they have to say to defend themselves.”

“We’ll deal with that in the morning,” Wintra stated. “Let’s get some sleep so we can deal with this with clear minds.”

The others nodded as they returned to their rooms.

The next morning they all gathered with Princess Celestia to hear the sentencing. Prince Blueblood and Upper Crust were brought in; special magic dampeners were attached to their horns. The prince refused to make eye contact with any of the royals while Upper Crust looked angry and irritated.

“You both are here for acts of treason,” Princess Celestia began, “what do you have to say to defend yourselves?”

“You don’t have any evidence against me,” Upper Crust exclaimed. “I was at the wrong place!”

“Don’t give them that,” Blueblood sneered.

“What do you know of any of this?” Upper Crust demanded.

“Plenty,” Blueblood spat. “I didn’t recognize you when that griffon confronted me and wove those tales. But I now know that it was you. You turned me against my own blood and convinced me that it was all to ‘Save Equestria’. I’ve lost everything because of you!”

The others were surprised at Blueblood’s sudden defense.

“Speculation won’t get you anywhere,” Upper Crust scoffed. “Besides he used his magic on me.” She pointed an accusing hoof at Coltyn.

“You resisted,” Coltyn responded flatly.

“You hexed me with your dark magic!” Upper Crust exclaimed.

“A simple compulsion enchantment hardly qualifies as a hex,” Coltyn retorted.

“Not to mention that you’ve had a grudge against Princess Wintra since your foalhood,” Blueblood snarled. “Stooping to use an enemy of the land to get your petty revenge; that is wicked.”

“Too bad there’s not a changeling here to back your claims,” Upper Crust frowned sarcastically.

“Actually,” Celestia drawled, as on cue the doors opened revealing two ponies nopony present recognized. After the doors closed they dropped their disguises, revealing themselves as the queen of the changelings and one of her drones.

Twilight shrunk behind her teacher while all others turned to Celestia. Upper Crust was shocked at the changeling’s arrival while Blueblood smirked at his small victory.

“Have you lost your senses, Princess?” Shining Armor roared.

“After reading the reports from Twilight and Princess Wintra on what transpired,” Celestia responded calmly, “I wanted to hear from the source.”

“I’ve missed you too,” the queen teased Shining Armor. Cadance stared daggers at her causing the queen to roll her eyes. “I’m only here to settle a little debt and I’ll be gone, Princess.”

Cadance and Shining Armor stared at the two changelings like a predator waiting to pounce.

“Thank you for accepting my invitation, Queen Chrysalis,” Celestia nodded. “So how were you involved?”

“This mare offered a satchel of fire rubies if I allowed one of my drones to, as she put it, ‘aid in disposing of an annoying windigo and a nopony,’” pointing toward Coltyn and Wintra. “She even had a few on hoof as a good faith payment. But after the job was done the griffon gave my drone a small purse of coins. Needless to say we are not happy.”

“She… she’s lying!” Upper Crust exclaimed.

“Oh?” Chrysalis questioned. “Shall I have them cast truth spells on me? Take a truth potion? It will all turn the same tale; you betraying the very ponies who would lay down their lives for you.”

Upper Crust was finally silent, not wanting to dig a deeper grave for herself.

“Why fire rubies?” Coltyn asked curiously.

“There is a reason that they’re shaped like hearts. They’re nothing compared to the real thing but they do satisfy the hunger,” Chrysalis explained, thoughtlessly licking her lips.

Celestia pondered this information before speaking. “It seems that you are quite in debt to the Queen,” she pinned Upper Crust with a cold look, “therefore, after you are branded for your treasonous acts you will work to pay back this debt threefold.” So saying, she commanded the guards keeping Upper Crust contained to leave with their prisoner. She studied Blueblood for a long moment, though he kept his eyes downcast, shame and fear evident in every line of his body. “While I understand, and accept your desire to protect our home, you have participated in treachery and conspiracy against our royal Heir. Your loyalties are in question. Would you submit to a small test?”

Blueblood blinked. “What-“ he cleared his throat and tried again, “what manner of test, your Majesty?”

Turning to the Changeling Queen, Celestia considered her for a moment, and then asked, “Can you reveal somepony’s deepest love without harming them?”

Chrysalis smiled. “Of course I can. Even feeding is not harmful unless it is excessive. I’m afraid I have never had a voluntary meal before…” she trailed off, noticing how uncomfortable Twilight suddenly looked. “Well, in any case, I can reveal the deepest heart of anypony, and refrain from feeding, though doing so would get unbearable for me if you ask it of me too often.”

Celestia nodded. Returning her imperious stare to Blueblood, she asked, “You have a choice. If you cooperate with our experiment, you may redeem yourself. If you do not, you will share your co-conspirator’s punishment.”

Looking nervously at the Changeling Queen, Blueblood gulped audibly, then nodded. “Yes, your Majesty.” Visibly bracing himself, he crossed the room to place himself before Chrysalis, and closed his eyes. When the Queen changed form, a gasp echoed through the hall. Celestia looked nonplussed as she met the eyes of… herself. A long moment of silence prompted Blueblood to open his eyes, and then hang his head in embarrassment.

Celestia studied the young stallion, and then asked him, “Can you explain this?”

Blueblood blushed, the reddening of his face all the more pronounced under his carefully groomed white fur. He lifted eyes shining with moisture to meet Celestia’s. “My mother died when I was a foal, your Majesty. I don’t really remember her, but…“ He glanced at the twin Princesses, and hung his head. “After you chose my father, you cared for me, as a mother. I was afraid when you found your other daughter that you would forget me. And when that mare approached me, and told me that you had been bewitched, and that Wintra was a windigo in disguise… I feared that when the trick was revealed, that it would break your heart. I wanted to protect you, and Equestria, from an imposter. I didn’t know then that I had always had two sisters.” He averted his eyes again, and said softly, “Whatever punishment you give me, I will accept.”

Silence followed his confession, and he waited for the judgment of the only mother he’d ever really known.

Celestia considered for a long moment, before she said simply, “We will discuss this further before any sentence is imposed.” Turning back to Queen Chrysalis, “After that, perhaps we may devise an arrangement that would benefit both our lands.”

“We shall see,” Chrysalis offered, donning her disguise and leaving with her drone.

Shining Armor waited for the door to close behind the changelings before he turned to Celestia, frowning darkly. “You’re not actually thinking of allying with the changelings, are you?” he asked worried.

“They managed to infiltrate our land and didn’t even raise suspicion until it was too late. I’d rather have them as allies then as enemies,” Celestia explained. “Wouldn’t you agree?” she asked Coltyn.

“I do admit that their natural shifting and ability to infiltrate are valuable. I still question how loyal they can be and wouldn’t give them too many secrets,” Coltyn clarified.

“I will continue talks with the changeling queen,” Celestia declared. “I will keep you all informed of what becomes of it.”

Princess Celestia took her leave as the others followed. Coltyn retired to his office to catch up on the work that had piled up.

*****

The next day Wintra invited Coltyn to join her, Twilight, and Spike on their trip to Ponyville. None of the backed up work needed his immediate attention and he agreed to join them.

Upon reaching Ponyville, the four walked over to Twilight’s home. Twilight walked in front and opened the door.

“SURPRISE!!!” shouted a large group of ponies.

The library had been decorated with a banner saying ‘Welcome Back’, steamers and balloons placed strategically, and everypony donning a party hat.

“What a wonderful welcome,” Twilight smiled at her friends.

The girls gathered in a group hug. Twilight was very glad to be surrounded by her friends. Coltyn and Princess Wintra were bemused by the truly tight bond they had. Her friends broke away as Big Macintosh approached Twilight. Twilight’s eyes widened not with joy, but fear. Without a word, she averted her eyes, and spun toward the stairs, racing up to her room.

“What in tarnation was that all about,” Applejack asked. The ponies turned to Coltyn and Wintra for answers.

Coltyn sighed, “She had a run in with the queen of the changelings.”

The girls gasped in disbelief. Big Mac, on the other hoof, approached Coltyn with narrowed eyes.

“Why?” Big Mac snarled, his voice angrier than anypony in the room, including his sister, had ever heard.

“To save me from some griffons who ponynapped me,” Coltyn admitted.

The red stallion snorted hard, blowing his breath out in fury, planting his hind legs and squaring off to Coltyn. He reared up to lash at the silver stallion with his forelegs, but only managed a single blow, punctuated by a sickening crack as Coltyn’s jaw broke, before he was stopped by Princess Wintra. She ignored her own surprise as he was frozen in his enraged rear by her own pale blue magic aura as she stared down the angry stallion.

“She did her duty to protect a Princess of Equestria as well,” Wintra explained. Big Mac raised an eyebrow, and his hooves hit the floor with a resounding double thud as her spell dissipated. “She sacrificed herself to keep us from both being killed by the changeling queen. She offered her love, and when the queen took it, she took on your form. She’s been traumatized by the experience; I’ll have a talk with her, but you should know it will take time to heal.”

Princess Wintra headed upstairs after Twilight as all eyes turned to Big Mac. Big Mac turned to leave. “Where ya’ going?” Applejack asked.

“Home,” he snorted, continuing out the door.

“Sorry about my brother’s behavior,” Applejack apologized. “However I think we’d all like to know what happened.”

Coltyn steadied his breath, repairing the fractures in his jaw, before he told of what he knew happened.

***

Wintra opened the door to Twilight’s room. She was sitting on her bed, head buried with her comforter around her body, crying. She placed a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder causing her to turn and hug Wintra, sobbing.

“You should talk to Shining Armor when he gets back. You both went through the same thing,” Wintra offered.

“But it’s not!” Twilight choked. “He didn’t know. I knew, and I willingly opened my heart to that monster.” Twilight hugged herself, fresh tears flowing down her cheeks. “I felt so empty.”

“It was torture to know I couldn’t help you. I wanted to rend her apart, but I wouldn’t risk your safety.”

“What do I do? When I looked at Big Mac, it was like the entire room went cold.”

“I think you should tell him everything. What happened and how it felt, because he attacked Coltyn for putting you in danger.”

“But Coltyn had nothing to do with it. Why would Big Mac turn on Coltyn?”

“I’d say because when it comes to it, you were in danger because of him. Big Macintosh cares deeply for you and he should get the whole story from you.”

“I don’t think I can look him in the eye without feeling dirty. It’s just… what she did to me… it feels like I betrayed him.” She looked up, her face twisted with self-loathing and heartbreak. “What if he doesn’t want me anymore?”

“If he loves you, he will help you through this, Twilight. You have to trust him with the truth, or you will drive him away.” Wintra pondered for a moment looking around. Her eyes fell on a desk with an ink well and parchment. “If you can’t say it, write about it. That way you can edit and say exactly what you want to without having to think on the fly.”

Twilight pondered her suggestion before nodding. “Please tell my friends that I just need some time.”

“Of course,” Wintra accepted, turning to leave. “I’m sure if you need anything your friends will help.”

Twilight smiled slightly, moving from her bed to her desk as Wintra headed back downstairs.

***

“… Now we are working on an alliance with the Blackclaw Clan.” Coltyn finished relating his story as Princess Wintra came back downstairs.

“Well that explains a bit but why did she leave at the sight of him?” Rarity asked, worried.

“She will tell you when she is ready,” Wintra explained, trotting across the room to stand beside Coltyn. “However, I think that she’ll need the most reassurance from,” she looked around for Big Mac, “where did he go?”

“If I know him, working,” Applejack replied.

Wintra nodded, understanding his intent. “Please let him know that she does love him and she will need him.”

Applejack nodded, turned, and left at a quick trot. The others gave a worried look upstairs before filing out with Coltyn and Wintra leaving last.

***

Applejack found her brother where she expected him to be, harvesting the first apples of the season. “Big Mac,” Applejack called, approaching her brother. He didn’t react, focusing exclusively on his work. “Jonathan Macintosh Apple!” she bellowed, annoyed that he was ignoring her.

He looked up, a bit surprised that she had used his full name, but went right back to loading the last basket into the cart. “Don’t you be ignoring me,” Applejack snapped, getting in his face. “The mare you care for is in trouble and you just stormed out here to work?”

“Nope,” Big Macintosh replied, sighing.

“Then what are you doing?”

“Thinking.”

“Well let me help. Twilight went through a terrible ordeal and she needs you. I honestly think she’ll resist but you have to be strong. She’ll need a shoulder, your shoulder.”

He closed his eyes, raising his head to the sky, sighing before nodding at his sister and giving her a small smile. Shaking his mane, he trotted off toward Ponyville. Applejack did what she needed to; now the rest was up to him.

***

Twilight snorted in frustration, crumpling another piece of parchment, and discarding it into the overflowing bin. Her eyes were red from the tears as she forced herself to recall her encounter. She sighed, setting down her quill, as nothing she wrote seemed to justify her actions. She hung her head as fresh tears stung her eyes; her soft sobs hid the sound of hooves approaching her door.

Big Macintosh took a steady breath before knocking on Twilight’s bedroom door.

“I don’t wish to be disturbed,” Twilight replied to the annoying knock.

“I need to talk to you,” Big Macintosh responded.

“NO!” she shouted, the fear renewing itself. “I don’t want you to see me like this.” Twilight galloped to her bed, wrapping her blanket around her.

“I need to be with you,” Big Mac began, “even if I have to break this door down.”

Twilight covered her body completely before opening the door with her magic. “You shouldn’t be here,” she coldly stated, not looking at him.

“I need to be here, with you.”

“You should hate me for what I did,” Twilight angrily retorted.

“I don’t,” Big Mac began placing a hoof on her shoulder.

Twilight, startled and outraged, turned and knocked his hoof away. The anger and sadness reflected in her bloodshot eyes expressed a wide gamut of emotions.

“I willingly opened myself to that monster! It took your form and drained me of my love! My heart felt so dark and empty; I can’t even begin to explain how invasive that was. It used me for its own pleasure and then discarded me once it was satisfied. I’m filthy and,” Twilight paused, looking him in the eye, “You should hate me!”

Big Mac was processing what she said, but after her rant her strength left her. She ran back to her bed covering herself in shame.

***

Wintra, Coltyn, and Rainbow Dash trotted around town as Rainbow explained the basic weather needs of Ponyville.

“Basically, Sweet Apple Acres needs some rain every week to ensure the best crop yields,” Rainbow Dash explained. “The main town only needs rain every week and a half to two weeks. We also schedule two or three really big storms to replenish the reservoir.”

“That doesn’t sound too bad. I’ll have a better picture once I get reports from the rest of the towns,” Wintra acknowledged.

“That’s, of course, the best of conditions. It doesn’t work out that way usually,” Rainbow clarified, sighing. She hesitated a moment, then said tentatively, “Princess Wintra, I know you were the Captain of the Wonderbolts before you joined the Royal Guard...” Wintra nodded, wondering about the sudden change of topic. “I was hoping you might put in a good word for me.”

Wintra stopped, rubbing her chin, Rainbow and Coltyn turned, looking at her. “Maybe,” Wintra mused, loosening her wings. “But I’ll have to see if you’ve got what it takes.”

“What do you have in mind?” Rainbow asked, confidently.

“Once around the town,” Wintra spread her wings, “GO!”

Wintra took off at full speed. Rainbow wasn’t far behind, having pulled the same trick on her friends before. The two blue streaks sped off leaving Coltyn alone. He shrugged, deciding to put up a finish line to pass the time.

***

Twilight’s crying tore at Big Macintosh’s heart. He walked up to her, wrapped his forelegs around her, and hugged her.

“Let me go,” Twilight cried, weakly thumping her hooves against him.

But he didn’t, he just pulled her in tighter, arching his neck over hers and holding her as close as he could, his eyes tearing up.

“I’m filth,” she whimpered, “hate me.”

“No,” he replied firmly.

She pulled away, twisting her neck to look at him. “WHY?” she demanded.

He looked at her, his eyes full of pain. “Because I love you,” he replied softly, pulling her back to his chest tightly.

Twilight was shocked hearing those words. She cuddled into his chest, returning his embrace. “I love you,” she replied, feeling the words fill her horribly empty heart.

They held the embrace for what seemed like forever. Twilight gently pushed away when the evening sun shone through her window. “You should probably head back to the farm,” she offered.

He thought about it a moment before responding. “They’ll be fine without me for one night.”

Twilight smiled, nuzzling into his chest. “Thank you.”

***

Coltyn watched as the two came back into view. Wintra still had the lead but Rainbow Dash had closed the gap and was still gaining. He had set up a line to determine a winner, having a feeling they would want to know, but it was going to be close. He cast a spell that slowed the passage of time as they approached the line. The two mares skidded to a halt, panting heavily.

“Who. . . won?” Rainbow asked between breaths.

“Princess Wintra won, but only by a small fraction,” Coltyn acknowledged.

Rainbow scuffed the ground realizing she lost. “Had this been a fair race you’d have won,” Wintra offered, having recovered. “It’s Captain Spitfire’s decision, but I’ll give her your name with my recommendation.”

“Really?” Rainbow’s face lit up. Wintra nodded. “Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!” Rainbow repeated, unable to control her excitement.

Wintra rolled her eyes, amused at the young mare’s excitement. “You should get an application to the Academy sometime in the spring. Just fill it out and return it.”

“Don’t worry, I will and I’ll be in a Wonderbolt uniform before you know it,” Rainbow boasted.

“We’ll look forward to it.” Wintra smiled. Coltyn nodded. Wintra sighed, glancing toward the sun as it sank toward the horizon. “If we want to catch the train back to Canterlot we should go.”

“Shouldn’t we check on Twilight?” Coltyn asked, worried.

“When I passed the library I saw her and the red stallion hugging,” Wintra smiled, closing her eyes, “hugs are always good.”

Coltyn nodded as the two headed for the train.

***

Blueblood sat on his bed, confined to his room until a decision was made. He looked up as the door opened to see Celestia. He quickly threw himself to the ground, head bowed.

“I have made my decision,” Celestia stated, walking into the room.

“What is my fate,” he didn’t look up.

“Your intent was good, misguided though it was. If you had brought this to me I would have told you about Princess Wintra.”

“What are you saying?”

“I’m saying that you were manipulated. You must be held accountable for your actions but those are not as severe.” She took a steadying breath. “You will pay one satchel of fire rubies as the fine and will perform some community service to give you a feel for the work common ponies have to perform to maintain the higher lifestyle. In addition, you will take the time to get to know your sisters, and help Wintra learn how to find her way around in the social circles she will be expected to understand.” She offered him an ironic smile. “From what I understand, that will take some effort. She’s got some rough edges to smooth out. Spending time with Cadance might help you improve your manners, as well. I know of at least one unicorn you personally owe an apology, for your boorish behavior last spring.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. With your permission, I would like to begin immediately.”

Celestia nodded, and summoned the head of the Royal Household, the palace butler Top Notch. Celestia explained that until further notice Blueblood was his newest employee. With a nod the Royal Butler led Blueblood out to begin his service. Celestia felt that he would learn a lot from the ordeal and will become a better stallion for it.

***

Deep in the frozen north, beyond the Crystal Mountains, far from the last train depot, amidst the vast empty tundra where the windigos ruled, a fell wind began to blow. A dark mark appeared upon the endless white terrain as the skies grew black with clouds. A long forgotten evil stirs from its long slumber as a blizzard begins. The earth quakes as the thick ice of centuries fracture, a stream of black smoke oozes from the crack. The silence shattered by a single sibilant sigh, “Crystals.”

Prologue: Fall into Darkness

The land of Equestria is a place where ponies now know peace and harmony but it wasn’t always. There was a time when the two regal sisters waged wars, and death and sadness was commonplace. The sister’s first acts as rulers were to drive the untamable dragons off, while converting and domesticating others. They then turned their hooves and horns against the griffin tribes in the mountains and were aided by their dragon allies. These foes were defeated and submitted to the truces of the royal sisters. Then, they faced the one foe that could not be defeated with force… Discord.

Discord spread his chaos like a plague, driving all the ponies in Equestria crazy. Only the royal sisters had the power to stand against his power. As later came to be written, Celestia and Luna imprisoned Discord in stone using the Elements of Harmony and order was restored. However, Celestia – never wanting to see a repeat of the Discord disaster – became stricter, mercilessly dominating her subjects.

Celestia ruled with an iron hoof and even began to force her will upon her sister. Luna was upset by this change in her sister but did as she was asked, hoping that Celestia would realize how needlessly cruel she was becoming. But Celestia didn't stop; she just kept increasing the restrictions on her subjects – especially after a rogue tribe of griffins started raiding the villages near the border under cover of night. Luna couldn't stand being in the same building as her sister and took her vassals to one of the forts used during the war with the griffins. Celestia then put a curfew out that nopony was to be out or do any work at night. That was all Luna could take, she needed to change her sister back before she destroyed the free will of everypony in Equestria.

Talking had failed; Luna knew that she could not stand up to her sister unless she had more strength. Luna spent her night thinking of a way to proceed when she turned her ears to a home where a mother was warning her foal that if she didn't go to sleep that the moon would send horrible nightmares to her. Luna was hurt to see the ponies shunning her beautiful night, but as she walked away two words rang through Luna's head: Nightmare Moon. What a perfect name to hide behind! Under the alias, the night mare could gather strength to overthrow her sister and bring her peaceful night to all of Equestria, forever.

*****

Nightmare Moon needed to start building strength… an army and she knew just the ponies to ask. She started by heading over to the home of the strategist and smith, Golden Blade. Golden Blade had just finished cleaning up from his work when a knock came at his door. Golden Blade was shocked to see the Princess of the Night at his home and with haste knelt before her.

"To what do I owe the honor of a visit from the Princess of the Night?" Golden Blade asked, still kneeling.

"I have come to ask for your aid in overthrowing the tyrant, Celestia. She has wronged all ponies with her rules and I will suffer her no more," Nightmare announced, walking into Golden's home.

"I am not sure. But I do agree that Celestia has become more paranoid over the years. Not to mention her constantly restricting our time outside has made gathering supplies difficult."

"Then come and join my counsel. Be my strategist and help me plan the overthrow of Celestia and welcome in a new era of peace."

Golden Blade pondered for a while. "Very well, I will lend you my knowledge. Where will we be meeting?"

"There is a fort that we used in the war with the griffins in the woods to the east; meet me there under the full moon. Have your wares and mind ready," Nightmare said, walking out the door.

*Perfect,* Nightmare Moon thought as she spread her wings, *with a strategist like him my dream draws closer.* She then took to the sky and landed at a little cloud house and knocked at the door.
Fire Mane drowsily dragged herself out of bed and opened the door, still rubbing her eyes. "Do you have any idea what time it…" As Fire Mane's eyes focused and saw the Night Princess standing there and immediately bowed down. "I'm so sorry! I was just getting ready for bed I didn't mean to…"

Nightmare raised her hoof to silence the jabbering pegasus. "I didn't come to hear you babble. I came here to make you an offer. You are the best flyer and aerial combatant in Equestria and you have proven yourself in the war with the griffins. I am going to restore the peace we all knew once and stop my sister's insanity. I want you to help me. Lend me your wings."

Fire Mane looked over to her closet, where her barding hung, waiting to be worn once again. "I am at your disposal, my princess. I have really missed my night flights since your psychotic sister banned us from going out at night."

"Excellent. The old fortress in the eastern woods is where we will meet under the full moon."

"I'll be there," Fire Mane said with a smile.

As Nightmare Moon left she was feeling confident; she had two of the greatest warriors in Equestria already in her corner. Now all that was left was to find the unicorn she had chosen.

Nightmare Moon soared through the night and finally discovered his traveling cart, tied outside of Trottingham. A small sign hung on the door that said "Pendragon's Magic & Potions Closed". Nightmare couldn't sense anypony inside so she phased inside. Once inside Nightmare found a note on the table which said, 'Out. Please don't steal my stuff'. Nightmare was disappointed that he was not around, but left him a note.

'Coltyn Pendragon, your presence is requested at the old fort in the eastern woods on the night of the full moon. Do not be late. Princess Luna of Equestria'

Nightmare left his little cart and went off to her castle to wait for her new advisors to show.

*****

The sun shone over the horizon as a red light shone from the traveling cart as Coltyn appeared inside.

"Well that went better than expected; it only took a trip half way around the world," Coltyn muttered sarcastically to himself, as he looked down at a jet black stone. "Worth it, though. I finally have what I need to gain immortality. Now back to work."

Coltyn walked up to the counter, noticing the note as he dropped his saddlebag on the floor.

"What's this?" Coltyn picked up the note to read it. "A summons from Princess Luna? Hmm… well, I am not one to disappoint, but first things first."

Coltyn fired up his cauldron and began to add ingredients into the pot as he chanted aloud. He then pulled out a stone known as Darksteel due to its coal black color and magical properties. Coltyn continued to chant over the cauldron and the stone dissolved into the mixture, turning the entire mass black. As Coltyn mixed the potion, it popped and black smoke rose from the cauldron. Coltyn picked up a small bowl and filled it with the mix and swallowed it, gagging.

"Holy horse apples, that was nasty. Only a lot to go… this is going to suck."

Coltyn continued to choke down the mixture which became easier as he progressed, eventually drinking it all down. After he took in the last of the mixture he chanted the incantation he’d memorized before brewing the foul stuff, and as it took effect his eyes gave off an unearthly glow as they turned black. Coltyn then was engulfed in black tendrils that protruded from every area of his body and wrapped him in a cocoon. As the cocoon broke Coltyn fell to the floor, unconscious.

When Coltyn picked himself up about an hour later, he shook his head.

"My word, that was horrible. It was worth it though to never be able to die – now I can use my power to its fullest extent."

Coltyn smirked evilly as he felt the Darksteel coursing through his entire being, granting its everlasting power to him.

"Now, off to see what my princess of the night wants."

Coltyn went outside and began to draw a large teleportation circle around his cart. He went back inside, and moments later, dark shadows engulfed the cart and then it disappeared into the darkness.

*****

Coltyn and his cart appeared on the outskirts of the old fort. He walked out and running into Golden Blade.

"Hey Golden, haven't seen you since we took out that nest of griffins a few years ago. How have you been?"

"Not bad, although it has been slow and boring. With no war or strife ponies don't require tools of death.” He heaved a sigh. “Well not everypony wants to live in a world constantly at war but I earned my mark in the war. I guess I'm just going to have to get used to this peace."

"I hear you. Now that ponies aren't out for blood, my dark magic is pretty useless. I am fortunate in that I’m versed in potions so I can keep busy. But I agree this peace is kind of boring for ponies like us."

As Coltyn and Golden made their way to the castle, they saw a streak blaze across the sky. Fire Mane came in for a landing nearby, trailing red-gold tendrils of flame.

"Hey guys, you got a summons, too?" Fire Mane asked, folding her wings in.

"Yeah," Golden Blade said.

"I only got a letter. I was busy elsewhere," Coltyn said, levitating a note from his saddlebag.

The three walked into the fort and went to the main hall leading into Nightmare Moon's audience chamber. As they approached the Princess, they all bowed down.

"We have come as requested, Princess of the Night," the three ponies said in unison as they rose and stood at attention.

"Well done, my faithful ponies. I have summoned you here because I have become tired of my sister’s tyrannical rule. She will not let our ponies enjoy my night; she restricts their freedoms and I will not stand for it. We will overthrow her and my beautiful peaceful night will rule over Equestria," Nightmare Moon said, pacing before the three ponies standing at attention. "I however cannot do this as Princess Luna, so I need you three to kidnap me so I can devote all my power to overthrowing my sister."

"If I may your majesty, won't your night guards try to stop us?" Fire Mane asked.

"My sister made me disband my night guard. I am now guarded by her flunkies," Nightmare explained, grinding her teeth.

"So, are casualties acceptable, or shall this be a quiet extraction?" Golden asked, his mind already putting a plan together.

"I would prefer a quiet kidnapping, but if those fools get in your way, kill them," Nightmare responded darkly, making it evident that she wanted bloodshed without explicitly saying so.

The three exchanged looks and nodded, in perfect accord.

"We will start the preparations immediately. When would you like this to happen?" Coltyn asked.

"As soon as possible, but first you three need to start building an army. Go now and meet back here in three months to finalize the kidnapping so that we may begin our true campaign to save Equestria from my sister," Nightmare commanded, pointing to the door.

The three bowed and walked out. They gathered in Coltyn's cart and began drawing up plans.

*****

The three of them devised a way to convince others to join their cause, starting with those they had fought beside in the past whom they knew to be loyal to Princess Luna. Coltyn fashioned small pins to let others know that they are a part of Nightmare's army. As Golden Blade started to fashion new equipment, Fire Mane worked on building her aerial squadron. Within the three months they had been able to gather, outfit and train almost a thousand ponies in the art of combat.

On the night of the new moon, the army met together at Nightmare's Castle as the final step of preparation was about to take place… the mock kidnapping of Princess Luna. Nightmare Moon gave Golden, Fire and Coltyn the evening's guard rotation and they planned the perfect time to strike. Nightmare quickly returned to the palace and awaited her abduction.

The three donned their barding and teleported to the outskirts of Canterlot. They knew exactly where Nightmare Moon was waiting for them and they began their entry into the castle. The walls were not well guarded making it easy to slip in undetected. They made their way through the halls of the castle, easily keeping out of sight. When they came upon Nightmare's room, there were two white ponies in heavy armor guarding the door, one pegasus and one unicorn. Fire Mane flew up to the ceiling and knocked down some of the crystals from a chandelier further down the hall. The two guards in front of the door went to go see what the noise was and as soon as they were out of sight Coltyn and Golden were at the door.

Coltyn pushed the door open with magic and they met Nightmare Moon in her Luna form. The two bound Luna and placed her on Golden's back as they made their escape making sure to shut the door behind them and left a note: 'We are taking back the night'. Fire Mane had already arrived at the rendezvous point when Coltyn and Golden Blade showed up. They made for the wall and were they were spotted by one of the staff who had worked late and was going to her room. Not wanting to have her raise an alarm, Fire Mane swooped at her, slamming her hooves hard into her, crushing her skull. They quickly made it over the wall and back to where they appeared. Coltyn's horn glowed and then they were all enveloped by darkness and were gone.

*****

Nightmare Moon, now freed from her sister’s control, stood before her new army.

"You are all here because you are tired of my sister's tyrannical rule. We have gathered all of you here to finally show my sister that we will not succumb to her will and bend to her every command. My three generals will give you instructions. Rest today for when the moon rises next we shall begin our march to take Equestria away from the tyrant and her minions."

With a resounding cheer, the crowd filed out. Golden Blade and Fire Mane equipped each pony with barding. Coltyn divided the ponies into three different squads, each a mix of pegasi, unicorns and earth ponies. The army was ready; the night would be free again and the tyrant would fall.

*****

In the first battle of the war, the pegasus warriors took over Cloudsdale. With no pony expecting an attack, it was an easy victory. The ponies of Cloudsdale joined the army of the Night, surrendered and were imprisoned, or they resisted and died. With Cloudsdale under the Night's control there was no threat of counterattack from behind. The only thing left was to march through the woods and start the siege of Canterlot.

The siege started out well, cutting off supplies going in and taking shots at bringing down the walls. The resistance was more than Nightmare’s forces expected, however, and soon they were pushing back and the army of Nightmare Moon was losing ground. The army of the sun had made progress against the army of the night. The army of the night had retreated into the woods. Coltyn had a plan to stop the army of the sun from reaching the fort – a spell to infuse the surrounding woods with wild energy so the other army wouldn't come after them.

Coltyn went out and placed himself between to two armies. Two years of warfare had led to this desperate measure. Taking a deep steadying breath, he centered himself and summoned all the available dark energy into his body. He created a dark mass between his hooves that, thanks to his immortality, didn't kill him outright and let the darkness reach out and engulf the entire woods. The dark tendrils sunk into every tree, creature and the very earth itself. After the darkness receded Coltyn didn't return to camp; he was completely drained of power and passed out. Coltyn was taken prisoner by the Royal Guard’s top generals, who braved the new forest to find the source of the magic. Coltyn had stopped the Royal Guard march, but he needed to be rescued. That was the beginning of the end.

*****

Coltyn’s eyes groggily opened as his head throbbed from the backlash of his spell. Coltyn attempted to move his limbs but they refused to move. Shaking his head to clear his vision, Coltyn looked around and came to the horrid discovery that he was bound to a cold stone wall. A chill ran down his spine. Helpless, Coltyn tried to focus enough to cast any magic but no power was in him.

“That must have drained me more than I thought,” Coltyn muttered under his breath as his purple mane fell over his face.

Shortly after regaining consciousness the sound of the door being unlocked got his attention. Coltyn glanced up as two of the Royal Guards walked in carrying a chest and a brazier on top of which they set a covered steel bucket. The guards didn’t even glance at Coltyn as they set up. Coltyn swallowed hard as he knew what was coming next, he was about to be pumped for information by any means necessary it looked like.

The two guards after setting up the small work area left the cell and Coltyn’s jaw dropped as Celestia walked in. Celestia walked over to the chest and began to remove her vestments as she opened the chest.

“So what do I owe the honor, tyrant?” Coltyn scoffed.

“Well the worm finally wakes. I have been ever so patient,” Celestia drawled, sadistically.

“How long have I been here?”

“Almost a week, I was starting to think that you weren’t going to wake up. I want to know why you started this foolish war and what Nightmare Moon is planning and the location of my sister,” Celestia explained, as she backhooved Coltyn.

“That’s nice,” Coltyn said, spitting out a small bit of blood, “but I am not feeling like a canary so you can just leave now.”

“Oh no, I want those answers and you will tell me no matter how long we have to be here,” Celestia said pulling a riding crop from the chest.

Coltyn felt his heart jump to his throat as he swallowed hard. He prepared himself for what was coming but as the crop landed hard on his flank the snap echoed through the cell. Coltyn gritted his teeth as the shockwave of pain ran up his spine. Celestia just smiled sadistically as she pulled back and swung the crop again, hitting in the same place. Coltyn let out a small yelp as the pain screamed through him.

“Tell me what you are planning,” Celestia demanded, looking Coltyn in the eyes.

“None of your business,” Coltyn retorted, spitting in her face.

Celestia backed a step away as she levitated a cloth to her and wiped the spittle from her face and tied the cloth around Coltyn’s muzzle. Celestia retrieved a flogger from the chest and positioned the flogger by Coltyn’s flank and the crop by his face and then began to beat him furiously with both implements. Coltyn bucked, twisted, and turned to try and avoid the onslaught but his restraints held tight. His muffled cries of pain echoed of the walls, tears began to flow as the flogger and crop beat his face and flank. The assault stopped as the fur around his face and flank were matted with blood, bruises, and welts. Celestia pulled the cloth off his muzzle as Coltyn coughed up spit and blood as he gasped for air.

“What are you planning?” Celestia demanded.

“I won’t tell you anything,” Coltyn coughed out weakly from behind his drooping mane.

Celestia huffed as she set the crop and flogger down and lifted a short sharp blade out of the chest. Celestia’s face turned a wicked smile as she placed the blade next to his eye and slowly drew it down his face, his blood flowing from the wound. Coltyn winced again as the water in his eyes began to flow down his cheek and into the wound causing it to sting.

“The sooner you talk the sooner this ends,” Celestia whispered in Coltyn’s ear as she lifted the blade from his skin.

“You’re a fool to think I would break after a little beating like that,” Coltyn huffed as he regained his breath.

“Have it your way,” Celestia said, pulling out a grater and a chunk of rock salt.

Coltyn tried to steady himself but shrieked in agony nonetheless as Celestia cruelly cut a long, shallow gash into his hide and grated salt into the wound. The deafening screams rang off the walls as Celestia continued to cut him and salt the wounds, six on each limb, ten on his body, and three on his face. Coltyn was coated in blood as his body shook from the overwhelming pain. Celestia let him catch his breath for a second, and then she used magic to tear all the wounds open wider. Staring at him in cruel satisfaction as Coltyn’s cries of pain reverberated off the walls, tears of pain running down his face like rivers before he passed out.

***

Coltyn woke up an hour later to the familiar smell of hot steel but his hopes of seeing his friend Golden Blade faded as his eyes gazed through his drooping mane once again on the cell he was chained in. Coltyn’s eyes scanned for the source of the smell and his panicking gaze fastened on Celestia, who was rolling a branding iron in the soft glow of burning coal.

Celestia turned to Coltyn, “Have a nice nap, worm?” she sneered, levitating the glowing piece of steel between her and Coltyn.

“No, you insane maniac,” Coltyn growled as she approached him.

“That’s too bad because I want to know so much and you have such a strong will. I will enjoy destroying it.” Celestia lowered the branding iron which looked similar to her cutie mark to a point just in front of Coltyn’s chest. “Tell me what I want to know.”

Coltyn just hung there, stubbornly silent as he could feel the heat radiate from the iron. After a few minutes of silence Celestia drew the iron away as Coltyn breathed again she thrust it onto his chest. His fur melted away as the iron seared his flesh. His back bowed and his body shook as the smell of his burning flesh curled into his nose, and torrents of pain wracked his body.

Celestia pulled the Iron away as she looked upon the perfect sear of her cutie mark on Coltyn’s chest. She placed the iron back into the hot bucket and turned to Coltyn.

“Why do you keep fighting? All you’re doing is prolonging your own agony,” Celestia probed at Coltyn, lifting his chin to look at her.

“Because you’re a monster, and a tyrant who has abused her power,” Coltyn gasped, catching his breath.

Enraged Celestia picked up two more irons and slammed them onto Coltyn’s flanks. Coltyn screamed as the glowing irons melted his flesh and disfigured his cutie mark, his body shaking from the overload of pain.

“You will learn not to call me a tyrant,” Celestia growled as Coltyn lost consciousness.

***

Coltyn lethargically opened his eyes again to see the cell he hung in empty. He had no idea of time since there were no windows in his cell. He hadn’t eaten anything since his captivity. Coltyn started to look around for guards and tried to focus on his magic but he was still drugged and the hunger made his horn useless. Coltyn snorted in frustration as the sound of his cell opening perked his ears.

Ponies that set up banquets walked in carrying a long, low table covered in a white cloth and a fine silk pillow. Then like a parade waiters came in carrying all kinds of assorted foods. Coltyn’s mouth watered as the sight and smell of the food which caused his stomach to growl. Coltyn’s mind knew this was just another torture but his body cried for sustenance since he couldn’t remember the last time he ate.
The ponies left as they put the finishing touches on the meal as Celestia walked in. She turned her head and with a small nod signaled everypony to leave the room.

“I have decided to be nice and let you enjoy a banquet with me but only after you tell me everything,” Celestia offered. “It would be a shame to let all this hot delicious food go to waste, now wouldn’t it?”

Coltyn didn’t respond; he just waited, his mind fighting his body. The body begged and pleaded to taste the food before him but his mind didn’t want to pay the price for the meal. Celestia could see the struggle and started twisting the knife.

“These are some truly magnificent apples,” Celestia commented, lifting one from a small basket and took a bite. “So juicy and delicious,” Celestia praised, waving the fruit in front of Coltyn.

Coltyn snapped his teeth at the fruit but Celestia pulled it back. Celestia walked over to the pillow across from Coltyn and sat down and slowly finished the apple. Coltyn reached for the food before him but it was just out of his reach.

“You must be hungry. It has been almost a week and a half since you came to visit,” Celestia jested. “So we shall make a deal, you tell me everything and share this delectable feast with me, or I will torture you and then eat it in front of you.”

Coltyn glared at Celestia with pure hate as she slowly ate at the banquet. Celestia enjoyed small portions from every plate, and then called her waiters to take everything away. Coltyn looked on, neighing under his breath as the food was taken away. The last of the food left and the table and pillow were removed before Celestia turned to Coltyn.

“Talk and I will summon them back,” Celestia demanded.

Coltyn turned his head to the side, stubbornly mute.

“Fine! Have it your way,” Celestia snorted as she locked him back in the cell alone and hungry.

***

For four days Coltyn took the physical and verbal abuse dished out by Celestia and had to watch her bring in a banquet of delicious food. Celestia ate and drank her fill in front of Coltyn, savoring every bite. Coltyn had to watch as the food was taken away. On the second day, the sight caused deep pains in his stomach.

On the fifth day, Coltyn woke to sudden shock of pain to his face. Looking up, Coltyn laid eyes on his tormentor and just let his head slump back down.

“Are you ready to talk?” Celestia said pulling out her torture tools.

Coltyn hung there, too weak from hunger to respond. Celestia just raised her whip and let it land across his chest as his blood flowed again. Coltyn hardly reacted to the pain but a scent caught his attention. The smell of food filled his nostrils and his body reacted.

“It seems that this is the best way to tempt you to talk,” Celestia said as she placed the food just out of Coltyn’s reach.

Coltyn pathetically reached for the food, whinnying softly as his stomach growled loudly.

“Talk and you can have this,” Celestia said, inching the plate closer to him.

“Fine, what do you want to know?” Coltyn whispered, tears rolling down his face.

“What are they planning? When will they launch a rescue for you?” Celestia asked.

Coltyn took a deep breath but couldn’t say a word before being interrupted.

“Princess!” one of the guards called as he ran down the hall. “Nightmare’s forces have breached the wall and are heading this way.”

Celestia nodded turning back to Coltyn, “I’ll leave that there and we’ll see if you change your mind when I get back.”

Celestia left the room abruptly. Coltyn ignored the precipitous exit, in favor of concentrating with all his might on raising the food to his mouth. Hours rolled by and eventually, Coltyn could feel the drugs that kept his magic suppressed starting to wear off. Desperate, he focused on the plate, generating a dark aura that pulled it close enough for him to finally eat. Coltyn ate slowly, even though his body wanted to consume the food as fast as possible – knowing that simply stuffing himself would make him sick and keep him from being able to aid in his rescue, or escape on his own. As Coltyn finished the meal, he felt his strength return, and set his mind to the next most pressing problem – gaining his freedom.

Coltyn concentrated as he worked his chains open with his magic. He didn’t trust his horn magic with a teleportation spell but blood magic just required a bit of focus and will power. He bit a small bit of flesh from his leg, just above his hoof, spitting it out and making a disgusted face at the horrible taste. Blood flowed from the wound as Coltyn made haste to create the teleportation circle.

*****

The fires started to blaze as a battalion headed by Fire, Golden and Nightmare launched a rescue attempt. The walls shook as the two armies destroyed each other. It was a bloodbath, with both armies suffering massive casualties. In the end, the field of battle was reduced to Nightmare Moon, Fire Mane and Golden Blade as they approached the castle to confront Celestia, who was flanked by two unicorn masters, barring their way.

"You dare defy me! I will give you one chance to end this," Celestia barked, imperiously.

"Never! You have become a tyrant and you have strayed from the path of good. I will not back down," Nightmare retorted.

"So be it," Celestia intoned.

"Fine," Nightmare snarled.

The two alicorns sprang at each other, the clash of their magic lit up the sky. Fire Mane and Golden Blade attacked the two unicorns. The unicorns had their hooves full keeping up with Golden Blade and Fire Mane's attacks. The battle raged and as the two sides regrouped, everypony beaten and bloody, Celestia summoned all her power and called the Elements of Harmony and blasted Nightmare.
As Nightmare was surrounded by rainbow light, and blasted to the moon, Golden Blade and Fire Mane were struck with fear. They leaped back as Celestia's horn glowed brilliant white, but the Princess’ magic overtook them, and the two of them were blasted away from Canterlot with such violent, furious force that nopony should have been able to survive. Nothing was heard from or about them after that.

Celestia stood in silence as she let sink in what had just transpired. She didn't break, but deep down something stirred. She had seen a fleeting image of her beloved sister, her eyes asking ‘why?’. Confused, Celestia headed back down to the dungeon.

***

Coltyn felt a sudden chill run down his spine, and tears fell from his eyes as he was overcome with despair, fearing the worst, “I have failed you, my friends, my princess…my lovely princess of the night,” he whispered in desolation, knowing somehow that he was utterly alone. Coltyn wished that he could die, but that was no longer an option. Knowing he didn't have much time, Coltyn finished drawing the teleportation circle as the door was unlocked. The circle of blood combined with his projected will to cause the circle to glow. Celestia stepped into the cell at that moment to see Coltyn be enveloped in crimson smoke, and then disappear. Celestia sighed, *I’ll have to track him down. I don’t need him starting another conflict,* she thought as she closed to door and returned to her chamber.

***

Coltyn appeared next to his cart deep in the forest, where he collapsed on the ground.

Eventually Coltyn stirred, still a mess from his captivity. As he slowly regained consciousness, he looked up to see some of the nurse ponies looking over him. "How long have I been out?" Coltyn asked, still in a daze.

"Six days, we were getting worried. We’re relieved that you’re recovering, General," one of the nurses explained.

"What happened while I was out? Where are the other generals… where is Nightmare Moon?” Coltyn asked, trying to fill in the blanks.

One of the ponies from the army saluted and reported, “The Royal Guards came but we didn’t put up a fight, because with no leaders we didn’t want to do anything wrong. They just looked around for you, I think, but we kept you hidden. However, the foal of Nightmare disappeared the night of the rescue mission. We don’t know where she went and nopony has seen her since.”

“What!?” Coltyn bellowed, his nostrils flaring in fury.

Everypony in the room stepped back from the enraged stallion.

“Who was supposed to be guarding her?” Coltyn demanded.

A nervous pony stepped forward, “I…I was…Sir.”

“So how did foalnappers manage to abduct the young princess?” Coltyn interrogated the pony.

“I left my post only for a minute. I swear I didn’t mean to let this happen,” the pony groveled, pleadingly.

Coltyn raised his hoof but the lingering pain caused him to pause, “Get out of my sight.”

The pony took the hint and quickly galloped out of the tent and continued to run.

“Who is left?” Coltyn asked another warrior in the tent.

“Only a small group – the better part of the army went to rescue you, but none returned, sir,” the pony replied.

“Gather the remaining force,” Coltyn ordered as he climbed out of bed.

"As you wish, General," the pony replied hurrying out.

The nurses watched in awe as, with a great concentration, all his wounds healed without any visible scars as the bandages fell to the floor. Coltyn headed out of the tent and trotted up to overlook the remains of the army.

A look of disappointment crossed his face as only a score of ponies stood before him. In that moment Coltyn realized that full scale war was not the answer. Coltyn wanted revenge, for his friends, princess, and foal. But he intended to find a way that didn’t involve other ponies – just him and Celestia. *Better for them to live then to send them to a meaningless death,* Coltyn thought as he sighed.

"Nightmare Moon has been defeated and my two friends and your generals have fallen. We can no longer keep up the fight. I have failed all of you. I ask you to go back and quietly live out your lives, but never forget the hell of a fight we put up. We may not be victorious but if we are fortunate, this war may have caused a change in Celestia. Please go and live out your lives," Coltyn lowered his head in disgrace as he stepped down.

The remnants of Nightmare’s army were confused and chattered amongst themselves as Coltyn harnessed himself to his cart. Coltyn pulled his cart into a magic portal of darkness and disappeared leaving the confused ponies to figure out what to do without him because they didn’t need to know what happened while he was imprisoned.

Coltyn had gone as far away as he could and just kept walking. He had failed his companions and his princess and lost his foal. He needed to disappear and figure out what to do next. Coltyn paused just long enough to scry for his missing foal. In that moment, relief washed over him as he saw Fire Mane and Golden Blade taking care of his precious filly.

“They will raise her well,” Coltyn muttered as he looked at his daughter, his heart heavy with regret, but the mind-numbing fear over the filly’s fate receding. “Good-bye, my little Midnight Eclipse.”

Coltyn went into seclusion and hid from the guards Celestia sent out to look for him. Many years passed, and eventually the hunt for him slowed and then Coltyn, the last of the Nightmare Generals, finally fell into myth and was soon forgotten… which was exactly what he wanted. Once nopony was looking for him he could move around and try to find a way to fit back in with society and even find a way to get his revenge.

*****

Coltyn watched with suspicion and some disbelief as Celestia became a better ruler. He questioned whether the change was brought about because of having banished her sister, or some other reason. 'Oh well, at least this is a change for the best.' Coltyn thought as he traveled and rebuilt his store of potions. Coltyn, after many tries, found a way to hide his cutie mark, using a ritual that allowed him to duplicate anypony else’s mark, and develop their talent as well.

Once he mastered the spell to take on new talents and hide his cutie mark, Coltyn slid through the centuries, moving and taking on new marks and jobs to avoid attracting notice. In the process, Coltyn gained many talents and became a true jack of all trades.

Nearly a thousand years had passed when word of Celestia’s pregnancy reached him in his self-imposed exile. Curious, Coltyn returned to Canterlot, though he doubled the protective magic he’d cast upon himself to hide his identity. He watched as the white alicorn grew heavy with burgeoning life, and he’d been around enough gravid mares to realize she was carrying twins, even though she never announced that fact to her subjects.

When, three days after Hearth’s Warming Eve, the Princess presented her single filly foal, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, he knew there was something terribly wrong. The Princess’ personal guard had been coming and going from the castle, an air of desperate urgency about them, and he followed unobtrusively when he next spotted a patrol leaving. When he heard them talking about the foalnapped filly, his blood ran cold, and he knew he had to try to find that foal. She could be the key to his victory over Celestia, but more important was the fact that he needed to be sure that the infant was safe. He remembered well the terror he’d felt when his own beloved foal had been taken, before he’d discovered that she was safely in the care of his two friends, and no matter his own feelings about the Princess herself, he couldn’t allow an innocent to be hurt if it was within his power to stop.

Retreating to the desecrated forest he’d created for his Princess of the Night, he began scrying, using his most powerful seeking magic to suss out the location of the infant filly, and the identities of her foalnappers. It took only hours before he found them, and without delay, he cast a teleportation circle, and transported himself and his cart to their location. The foalnappers had retreated all the way to Manehatten, and he had no difficulty finding them in the rundown stable where they’d taken refuge. What he discovered, however, rocked him back on his hooves.

Inside the shadowy stable, he found a black coated alicorn with a silver and blue mane, and a golden coated pegasus with a mane bearing every imaginable shade of red and orange. The pegasus he’d never seen before, but the alicorn… it couldn’t be!

“Eclipse!” he gasped.

The alicorn looked up at him, and her eyes widened so much that the whites could be seen all the way around the sclera. “Father?”

Coltyn’s eyes fell on the shivering form of the foal on the floor between the unknown pegasus and his daughter, and his own eyes widened, in appalled shock. “What have you done?” Then, he watched as the ugliest expression of hatred he’d ever seen distorted his daughter’s features into a grotesque rictus.

“Vengeance, Father. For over nine-hundred and fifty years I’ve waited, guiding and honing the flame of justice in those who remained faithful to Mother, and now, finally, we have struck a blow for vengeance against that wretched Princess, for banishing Mother and nearly killing all of her friends. After you skulked off like a coward, someone had to take up the torch.”

The scorn in her voice stung him, but the atrocity his eyes were beholding eclipsed the filial disdain almost completely. Lying on the floor, shivering in terror, and bleeding from the ragged stump where her horn had been stomped off, was the pale blue form of Celestia’s stolen foal. The tiny filly’s eyes were glazed and feverish with pain, and she was giving out pitiful little squeals that were almost inaudible. She would no doubt die soon if she wasn’t given proper care.

Fury overcame Coltyn, and he lowered his horn, his vision hazing red as he let his magic build and then blast the two foalnapping ponies away from the suffering baby. He reached out with his magic, lifting the weakened little pony into his saddlebag, and then whirled and galloped back to his cart, almost unconsciously teleporting them back to Nightmare Moon’s old base of operations, deep inside the forest.

While he had only limited medical knowledge, he spent the next several days doing everything he could to heal the little alicorn foal, though he soon realized there was nothing he could do for her broken horn, but seal the wound in the effort to keep her from bleeding out all of her magic along with her lifesblood. The spell to protect her magic left a star shaped scar at the base of the horn stub, and he wept for the infant, a crushing burden of guilt bearing down on him as he finally saw the ultimate result of his part in the war between the two Princesses.

When he’d done all he could, he returned the maimed foal to her mother, and went into seclusion once more, this time to study the more esoteric forms of healing magic, vowing not to return to Canterlot until he could restore her horn, and her magic to her, and perhaps, make amends for his past sins.

Chapter 6: Lunar Confessions

It was early morning when Coltyn finished cleaning up the study Twilight let him use. With everything back in his cart he had one last thing to do before setting out. Teleporting over to Sweet Apple Acres he found Applejack just coming out of the house to start her work day.

“Hello, Applejack,” Coltyn greeted.

“Hey there, Coltyn. What brings you out this way?” Applejack asked.

“I was hoping to talk to Applebloom if she was awake.”

“I don’t know. She and her friends slept in their clubhouse last night. She told me that they were helping Big Macintosh with his chores. I guess they decided to sleep there together instead of heading home.”

“Thanks, Applejack,” Coltyn smiled, teleporting off to the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ clubhouse.

Coltyn appeared before the clubhouse and walked up to the door. He looked through the window to see the three fillies cuddled together, sound asleep. Coltyn knocked softly on the door. Applebloom opened the door, wiping the sleep from her eye.

“Oh, hey Coltyn what brings you out this way,” Applebloom yawned, waking Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

“I heard that three little fillies tried to match their teacher up with a work horse… using a potion,” Coltyn turned his head, looking at Applebloom.

Applebloom was snapped fully awake by his statement. “We didn’t mean for it to end up like it did. We just wanted Miss Cheerilee to have a special somepony on Hearts and Hooves Day,” Applebloom admitted, groveling at Coltyn’s hooves. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both looked away from Coltyn in shame.

“I’m not here to punish you. In fact I was rather proud to hear that my student and her friends made a high level potion, blunted as that pride was by the obvious failure to properly research the potion first. Still, it was an impressive bit of alchemy. Next time though make sure you read all the warnings that go along with it,” Coltyn praised, leaving the three fillies befuddled. “You were also willing to admit to your mistake and even try to fix them, which is why I’m not angry with any of you. You all will grow into fine young mares. But the real reason I came here was to tell you, Applebloom, that I will be leaving town for a while and that your potion training is going to have to wait until I can come back to Ponyville.” Raising a hoof to silence the filly as Applebloom opened her mouth to object, Coltyn explained, “This trip has nothing to do with your experiment… I already told you I’m not going to punish you. It’s a critical, and personal, matter that I need to resolve, and I must complete my research as soon as possible. Your training will continue when I return, and if your friends are interested, I will teach them as well.”

Coltyn left the three fillies sitting in their clubhouse nodding as their minds try to figure out what just happened. Coltyn teleported back into Ponyville and began to prepare his cart for the trip to Canterlot. Finishing the circle he lifted the cart into the center, letting his magic envelope the cart and him. In a bright flash he was gone.

***

Coltyn appeared before the towering gates to Canterlot on a beautifully warm spring day and proceeded to head for the archives. He made his way through the maze of streets leading to the castle. However, before he made it to the castle; he stopped - the air around him chill as his breath became visible.

“You!” an icy voice snarled.

“Greet…” Coltyn began, but was silenced by Thunder Snow hitting him.

“You have some nerve, leaving abruptly then showing back up,” Thunder Snow chastised. Coltyn lifted his head to look at her but was greeted by another hoof to the face. “I thought you might be different, but you’re like everypony else. Worthless!”

Coltyn turned away from her as a crowd began to gather. “I’m sorry.”

“So you think a simple apology will make it all better? It won’t!” Thunder Snow bellowed, the air growing colder.

“I deserve that. I understand your anger, but it was a matter of great urgency. I can’t explain yet, but I hope to have the answers you seek soon,” Coltyn explained, humbly.

“You will explain yourself now,” Thunder Snow commanded.

“This is not a conversation to have in public. Nor is it completely my decision, Princess Celestia must make the final call.”

“Then let’s go and pay her a visit.”

Coltyn lowered his head. “Lead the way.” Coltyn followed Thunder Snow - flanked by her two guards - to the castle gate.

***

Thunder Snow walked the familiar path to the Royal Audience Chamber. Coltyn followed, his head hanging as if he was being led to his execution. A small group of ponies were leaving as they approached. The elegant hoof-crafted double doors lead to a large and magnificently decorated room. Stain glass windows of recent events allowed the sun light in making the white tiled floor come alive. The room was divided by a long red carpet with golden silk trim that ran the entire length of the room. At the other end of the room atop a set of steps sat the princess of the sun who was tending to some business with a unicorn who levitated sheet after sheet up to the princess for her signature.

“Your Majesty! I would request an audience with you,” Thunder Snow called, stepping into the room.

“Of course, I can always…” Princess Celestia stopped, seeing Coltyn behind Thunder Snow, then finished, “…make time for my captains.” Celestia was a little shocked to see Coltyn but what puzzled her was the defeated look on his face.

“He claims to have information about me, but he will not talk. He said that you must authorize him to speak of it, and I would like to hear what he has to say,” Thunder Snow proposed.

Celestia looked at Coltyn as her mind filled with her own questions. “I will hear what he has to say in private. Any information I deem worthy to pass on will be done so.”

“I would rather hear it all now,” Thunder Snow requested harshly.

“You forget your place, Thunder Snow. I will tell you what you need to know when you need to know,” Celestia replied.

“But…”

“You’re dismissed,” Celestia ordered.

Thunder Snow turned and left, snorting in defeat. Coltyn raised his head to look at Celestia who glared at him.

“So what do you want?” Celestia asked.

“I wish to gain access to the Starswirl the Bearded wing,” Coltyn said plainly.

“And why should I let you into the room containing some of the most powerful spells known to pony kind?”

“For Thunder Snow.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow, her curiosity growing. “What does she have to do with your studies, Coltyn Pendragon? Of what interest is she to you?”

Tapping the tip of his own horn with his hoof, he offered, “She suffered a great injustice and long ago I dedicated myself to finding a way to correct it. Years of dead ends and fruitless research have given me no other choice. I humbly request access to the Starswirl the Bearded wing. I’m hoping that the answer I seek is hidden in one of his many texts.”

The Princess studied him for a long moment, and then began, “You are aware that she is…”

“Yes, Princess. I know precisely who she is, but I will tell no one. You will be the first to know, if I find what I seek.”

A fleeting look of hope crossed the white alicorn’s face, before being replaced by a pensive frown, as Celestia pondered his proposal for several moments. “Very well, you may use the archive as you need, but you will be accompanied by a Royal Guard who will keep me apprised of your activities.”

“That is all I can ask. Thank you, Princess Celestia,” Coltyn bowed. “I would like to start right away if I may.”

Celestia nodded, summoning one of her guards to take Coltyn to the library wing. He began the tedious task of going through the Starswirl the Bearded wing of the archives. He gathered useful scrolls and books and set to his studies. The guards seemed to pay little attention to him and basically acted like scenery until dinner time when they pulled him from his work to close the wing.

***

Coltyn spent the next week gathering and compiling notes but nothing stood out as an answer. He sent a few letters to Twilight telling of his meager progress. She also wrote back about the day to day life in Ponyville, commenting with pleasure on Rainbow Dash visiting the library more often to read her favorite book series. Another letter told of a misadventure that ended with Twilight wishing Pinkie would be little more tactful when new ponies, or in this case a donkey, moved to town.

Coltyn left for the day taking a book that seemed promising and headed out to the small restaurant across from the café where he first met Thunder Snow. He asked for a table where he could easily watch all the ponies passing by and even had a view of the café. Coltyn ordered and opened his book and began pony watching. He listened and watched picking up any random information. He was shocked to see Thunder Snow and Shining Armor round the corner in their armor, laughing. He couldn’t make out their conversation as they made their way to the café but Coltyn found himself bemused by this new aspect of Thunder Snow. The pair sat at a table outside the café, placing their helms next to them, continuing their conversation.

“He sure knew how to move up in the world,” the tan-coated unicorn waiter commented acerbically, placing Coltyn’s food on the table. “Went from seeing the pegasus captain to a princess.”

“Shining Armor is involved with Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?” Coltyn asked.

“You’re not from Canterlot are you?”

“No, but I would like to know more about them,” Coltyn pressed.

“Well, Princess Cadence, as she prefers to be called, is dating Shining Armor. Evidently, they met after his relationship with Thunder Snow ended. From what I’ve heard, he’s about the only real friend the pegasus captain has, and the three of them meet at that café regularly, to have drinks, sometimes a meal, and just visit,” the waiter said, turning to leave.

“I see,” Coltyn said, taking a bite of his meal.

Coltyn observed Thunder Snow and Shining Armor talking and laughing, and not long after their drinks were served, Princess Cadence arrived, greeting Thunder Snow with a smile before hugging Shining Armor and giving him a quick kiss. An air of seriousness fell over the three as Thunder Snow talked to the couple, glancing casually over in the direction of Coltyn. He wanted to know what she was saying because he was sure it was about him. The somber tone of their discussion lifted after a few minutes, however, and he watched as they chatted for near an hour, their jovial conversation ending when a pair of guards walked up to the table. Thunder Snow and Shining Armor put their helms back on and tossed some bits on the table before hurrying off toward the castle.

Princess Cadence finished her meal with a contained elegance seen only in ponies who had attended finishing school, before paying her bill and heading back to the castle herself. Coltyn turned his attention back to his neglected food and slowly ate; his mind fixed on the three of them.

Coltyn pondered the potential ramifications of the bonds between the three ponies as he finished his meal, and left a sizable tip for the waiter allowing him to stay uninterrupted. He entered his cart and quickly wrote himself a quick note to study the possibility of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor in some way helping to regrow Thunder Snow’s horn. As his research was at a bit of an impasse, he decided that the notion was worth examining. Perhaps he would find the right formula to use the bonds of friendship between the three as a catalyst. At the very least, he might find a way to help her control her wild magic long enough to find a real solution.

***

Early on Tuesday morning as Coltyn was waiting for the guard to come and open the library he felt a disturbance. It was strange because he was certain he recognized the shift in the fabric of magic that he’d sensed. Racking his brain, he sought to recall when he had felt a similar flux in space time before. Then it hit him, ‘when’ was exactly the key. Somepony had used Starswirl’s time travel spell. He paced in front of the gated wing, his mind racing, ‘who could have used that spell? What was it used for? I hope that this doesn’t affect the time flow.’ Coltyn continued to question the disturbance pacing back and forth until he heard the hoof steps of the guard approaching. Realizing that he couldn’t do anything, he focused on his research into using the ‘brotherly love’ references, and how they might apply to his quest. Coltyn was startled when Shining Armor turned the corner instead of one of the regular guards.

“Hello, Captain Shining Armor. To what do I owe the honor?” Coltyn asked, nervously.

“I’m here to check up on… whatever it is that you’re doing,” Shining Armor stated, opening the gate.

“Well I’m trying to further my understanding of how unicorn magic works, and how the bonds between ponies can influence it,” Coltyn answered, walking to the desk he had been using.

“I’m going to need more information than that,” Shining Armor insisted, locking the gate behind him.

Coltyn stepped back, looking at the captain. “Thunder Snow sent you to pump me for information, didn’t she?”

“No, this is for Princess Celestia,” Shining Armor responded not missing a beat.

“Very well. I’m looking for a way to repair the magic core of unicorns, in other words to repair any damage to the horn, and restore the magic abilities of a unicorn. I thought I found a solution but the sacrifice,” Coltyn shuddered, “would not be worth it. Defeated, again I came here to see if Starswirl had any information regarding the use of, as I’ve seen in text, ‘brotherly love’,” Coltyn explained, pulling books from the shelves.

“Thank you. Now I want to know why Thunder Snow is so adamant that you know some information regarding her.”

Coltyn was once again blindsided by his query. “She’s still angry that I left without warning at Hearth’s Warming,” he sighed. “I’m afraid that my pressing her for her name and then suddenly taking off upset her, for which I have already apologized.”

“That’s not what I asked you, Pendragon. Stop dodging the question,” Shining Armor scowled. “What do you know about her?”

“Nothing,” Coltyn answered coldly.

“Liar!”

“I’ve met her once and asked her name that is all.”

“Tell me what I want to know or I’ll…”

“Or you’ll what? Drag me away? Lock me in a dungeon? Torture me? Ponies today don’t know the true horrors of the past,” Coltyn snapped. “I’ve been through war. My past is not stained but drenched in blood. I have ended countless lives that still haunt me to this day. I’ve been a prisoner in your very dungeons and survived without leaking a drop of information. Do you understand?” Coltyn snarled, flaring his nostrils. “I’m a monster trying to find a small bit of redemption.”

“I understand that you shouldn’t be allowed here,” Shining Armor said calmly.

“Trust me; I didn’t want to come here before I had the answer.”

“Answer to what?” Shining Armor pushed.

“THAT is none of your business,” Coltyn replied, growing tired of his questions. “I have work to do and I’m sure you do as well.”

“Don’t think this is over,” Shining Armor threatened, leaving Coltyn to his studies.

Coltyn tried to focus on his work but the magical disturbance and argument with Shining Armor cluttered his mind. He realized that getting anything done would be impossible with his mind in disarray. He put the books back and headed to his cart. Using a technique he learned from a zebra shaman long ago, he gathered candles and placed them on the floor. Lighting them he pulled out a balancing staff and gracefully positioned himself balancing on his head upside down. Then, focusing his magic, his horn lit as he picked up the candles. Quieting his mind, Coltyn began to move the candles around him allowing the gentle warming glow to refocus his disordered mind.

***

Coltyn spent the week finding many references and definitions of ‘brotherly love’ but couldn’t figure out a way to use it. Feeling dour, he headed back to his cart Monday night and penned a letter to Twilight saying not much of anything important. He relaxed by the potbelly stove and began reading the books he borrowed.

Coltyn woke up during the night and feeling a strange urge to head back to the Starswirl the Bearded Wing. He made it to the castle just before sunrise and proceeded to the wing. He was shocked to see the door to the wing open. Peeking inside, he saw Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Spike. Twilight was casting the time spell. Coltyn didn’t want to interfere and let the events play out. Waiting for Twilight to return, he smiled slightly as he listened to her explanation of how she thought that she was trying to warn of some impending disaster but how it was her trying to tell herself not to worry so much.

“Oh, my stomach,” Spike groaned in pain. “I think it was all that ice cream. I thought the stomach ache would be future Spike’s problem, but now I am future Spike.”

Twilight and Pinkie giggled at the dragon. They turned their heads when they heard Coltyn chuckle, approaching the group.

“You look like you’ve seen better days, Twilight,” Coltyn chuckled.

“Yeah, let’s say it’s been one crazy week,” Twilight smiled, lifting Spike onto her back. “I thought you were going to check… your… You’re related to Starswirl?” Twilight asked, amazed.

“Yes, he was my grandfather. I grew up wanting to be just like him,” Coltyn sighed. “But I haven’t even come close.” Spike drew his attention, as the little dragon continued to groan in agony. “Come back to my cart, I have something that will take care of your stomach ache.”

“Hehe, thanks,” Spike moaned.

The group headed out to Coltyn’s cart and he began to rummage through his supplies. He pulled out a small flask filled with a viscous pink liquid. Pouring a small amount into a measure, he offered it to Spike who swallowed it, and sighed with relief as he felt his stomach begin settle. Pinkie Pie kept Spike company, while Coltyn and Twilight talked.

“So what brings you all to Canterlot? Other than experimental time travel,” Coltyn asked.

“Well, it began when I was visited by myself last week, and I got so excited about the idea of time travel that I didn’t let myself get a word in edgewise, so I ended up getting all worked up over an impending disaster that wasn’t even going to happen and… well, to make a long story short, I’ve learned that it’s best not to worry about the future and just solve problems as they come,” Twilight explained. Then, she cocked her head curiously, and asked, “So you’re the grandson of Starswirl the Bearded?”

“Yes, just like your lineage can be traced back to Clover the Clever.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Everypony in your line possessed the spark of greatness. However, not many were ever called upon to access it, and most have lived out their lives in peace. But, like you the spark of friendship ignited in Clover, allowing her to do great things that nopony thought possible.”

“So you’re saying I was predestined for greatness? I’m not sure how I feel about that. But Coltyn, Starswirl was so great, why didn’t this spark of destiny choose him?”

“That’s the thing to remember, Twilight. Destiny chooses those who will be remembered for all time. Starswirl told me that some are born great like the Princesses, some achieve greatness like he did, while others have greatness thrust upon them like Clover and yourself.”

“So I had no choice? I was going to become who I was no matter what?”

“No. You made choices that led you here. Granted, Princess Celestia helped push you in the direction that would lead you to greatness but in the end it is your choice.”

“I see. That is a lot to take in.”

“I understand,” Coltyn said, looking out the window, and smiling slightly. “The dragons will be migrating soon.”

“They will? When?” Twilight asked, intrigued.

“In a few days. I’ll bet you and your friends would enjoy watching it. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. If memory serves, they fly over Ponyville right around noon.”

“That sounds exciting. I can’t wait to tell my friends,” Twilight exclaimed.

“Let me know how it goes since I won’t be able to attend this time.”

“I will. Come on, let’s go home,” Twilight said, picking up Spike and heading home with Pinkie Pie.

***

Coltyn retired to his cart after another long day with no progress. He settled in next to his potbelly stove and settled in slowly drifting off to sleep.

~Dream~

Coltyn stood in front of his grandfather.

“You have disgraced me, your family, and all that you claimed to stand for,” Starswirl criticized.

“I did what I thought was best,” Coltyn defended.

“You foolishly took my longevity spells and committed an atrocity to the natural order.”

“But with immortality I can forever…”

“You only weep for the past because you have no future.”

“You’re wrong,” Coltyn screamed, tears streaming down his face. “I’ve only tried to fix the big mistakes.”

“Yet with all your knowledge you still fail. You’re a failure and nothing will ever…” Starswirl was interrupted and cast away.

Coltyn looked to where Starswirl had been standing and saw Princess Luna.

“Princess L-Luna,” Coltyn stuttered, looking around. “This is a dream.”

“Indeed it is,” Luna soothed. “After our first meeting in Ponyville, I began to monitor your dreams, and your nightmares. You have much weighing on your mind causing your distressed sleep.”

“I apologize, Princess. I should not have concerned you.”

“Be untroubled, Coltyn Pendragon, it is but one of my responsibilities to care for the dreams of the citizens of Equestria. Thy nightmares are especially distressing, and there are many aspects of them that give me pause. In truth, there is another purpose to my speaking with you this night. I would ask you… I wish to know why you seemed to know me when first we met, and why it distressed you so that I did not know you.”

Coltyn felt his heart catch in his throat. “I… I don’t know where to start.”

“Why not the beginning,” Luna smiled.

“The first time I met you and your sister was during the war with the griffons. I told you where the griffon leaders were so I could lead a strike against them. What I never told anypony was how I got that information,” Coltyn cringed.

“If you wish the nightmares to stop you need to face your inner demons.”

Coltyn drew a nervous breath. “There was a camp of griffons not far from the base I was at. I listened in on the general’s meeting and found that they had raided what is today Manehatten and where my parents lived. I didn’t wait for orders and left to find the griffons. They hadn’t set up a secure watch and I was able to slip in unnoticed but what I saw shook my very core; skinned ponies beheaded and hung to let the blood drain,” Coltyn recalled, tears streaming down his face. “I saw the skins of my parents and went from horrified to enraged; I slayed their entire encampment… all except one of the leaders. I took him to the butchery and tied him down.”

Coltyn stopped weeping as a sadistic smile crossed his face. “I began pulling his feathers out and then shaved his fur off. I told him to tell me why they started the war but of course he didn’t speak so I tortured him. I tortured him and enjoyed it… I… I…” Coltyn choked. “I did horrible things to that griffon and I… I’m sorry. I didn’t want to, I just…” Coltyn couldn’t finish as sadness overtook him.

“Gave in to your darkness, you carry many heavy burdens,” Luna cooed. “Your past is not pleasant but do you not feel better for opening up to another.”

Coltyn nodded getting his breathing under control. “The next time we met was when you gathered my friends and I to help overthrow Princess Celestia. I was one of your generals who led your troops into battle. But we… I mean Nightmare Moon and I took it farther. We were going to bring about a new era of peace not as prince and princess but king and queen.”

“I see. You fell in love with the darkness that consumed me,” Luna deduced.

“Yes, I held onto the hope of seeing you… I mean Nightmare Moon again so we could overthrow Celestia and rule in her stead. But after centuries of reflection I saw that it would be folly and started to help others,” Coltyn said. “May I ask a favor, Princess?”

“What is it, my little pony?”

“Would you take on the form of Nightmare Moon so I… can say goodbye?” Coltyn asked, cautiously.

Luna understood his motive and changed her form to that of Nightmare Moon. Coltyn looked up to see his Princess of the Night. “I’m sorry. I should have never left your side; it’s because of me you were banished. It’s entirely my fault, could you ever forgive me?” Coltyn asked, hanging his head in shame.

“Of course, my friend. I forgive you of your past. Now let us work toward a better future,” Nightmare said in a deep feminine voice, her gentle smile seeming at odds with her fierce appearance.

“Thank you. Goodbye… my love,” Coltyn smiled as Luna shifted back. “Thank you, Princess Luna. I feel my burden has become lighter.”

“I’m glad to help and thank you for filling in some of the blanks for me. Now get something you have been denied for many nights, peaceful rest,” Luna smiled, and Coltyn’s heart felt lighter as the world around him turned black and faded to nothing.

~End Dream~

Coltyn woke the next day feeling lighter on his hooves than he had for many years. He also had something important to do, apologize. He left his cart and walked around Canterlot looking for Thunder Snow. He found her sitting at the café she frequented with Shining Armor and Cadence. Coltyn stopped considering what he was about to do. With a deep breath he approached Thunder Snow.

“May I join you?” Coltyn asked, approaching Thunder Snow.

“No, I have nothing to say to you,” Thunder Snow snorted.

“Then I ask that you just listen.” Thunder Snow raised an eyebrow but didn’t want to pass up a chance to get more information. She motioned for him to sit. “First, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to leave so suddenly during Hearth’s Warming but it was for a good reason,” Coltyn began, knowing he couldn’t tell her everything and choosing his words carefully. “The reason I’ve been spending so much time in the archives here is the same one that took me so abruptly away, and I was trying to be considerate when I sent a messenger to tell you I was leaving, but instead I managed to offend you somehow. For that I’m truly sorry, and hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.” Coltyn sighed. “I was in earnest when I spoke to you in the café, but then I managed to put my hoof in my mouth. Again.”

The general state of melancholy Coltyn displayed was much different from the proud and silver-tongued pony she met at Hearth’s Warming. ‘Maybe I misjudged him.’ Thunder Snow thought as Coltyn continued.

“I wish I could tell you everything, but I can’t. Please understand that the secrets I’m keeping aren’t mine to tell, and sharing them could bring great harm to somepony else. I’m hoping maybe that we could start over?”

Thunder Snow pondered his proposal before slightly nodding her head, deciding to give him the opportunity to satisfy her curiosity. “I guess I could give you another chance,” Thunder Snow offered, with a half-smile. She looked at him, then looked down and poked the ground with her hoof. “Maybe,” She said cautiously. “You could join Shining Armor, Cadence, and I for tea sometime.”

“I’d like that very much,” Coltyn smiled.

Chapter 8: Deception

The night was cool and clear, allowing the moon to shine brightly in the sky. Coltyn was readying himself for bed, laying out everything he’d need for the wedding, when a pounding came on his door. He opened it to see Big Macintosh, who looked very worried. Coltyn immediately beckoned him in and asked. “What’s wrong?”

“Have you seen Twilight?” Big Macintosh asked in reply.

“No, I haven’t seen her all day. Did you ask Applejack? She was at the rehearsal,” Coltyn asked, confused.

“Eeyup.”

“Didn’t she know where Twilight was?”

“Nope, and she didn’t seem to care, either,” Big Macintosh choked, confusion warring with betrayal on his open face.

“That’s strange. Well, let’s see if I can find her,” Coltyn offered, pulling out his crystal ball.

Big Macintosh watched as the crystal filled with smoke. Coltyn looked into the ball for nearly twenty minutes before letting out a deep sigh as the smoke faded.

“I can’t find her. Somepony or something is blocking my spell,” Coltyn said.

Big Macintosh snorted in frustration, stomping his hoof.

“I’m not giving up. Listen, there has been a threat to Canterlot. I’m not supposed to tell you but you need to know. Twilight and I had a feeling that Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is connected to this threat but I don’t have any evidence to support that claim, or I would already have gone to Celestia with it.” Coltyn drew a breath, as Big Macintosh calmed his temper and began to listen intently.

“Twilight might have found something and was taken for her knowledge. She could be anywhere with somepony keeping up a non-detection spell. However, I know of only one place in Canterlot that can naturally defuse a scrying spell: the Canterlot Gem Mines,” Coltyn explained. “I’ll help you search Canterlot in the morning. But if we can’t find her by the time we’re supposed to be at the wedding, I want you to go to the Gem Mine and look there while I go to the wedding. If someone has kidnapped Twilight, it was to keep her from interfering in whoever is planning to attack the city, and since the only reason she’s in Canterlot at all is to help with her brother’s wedding, I have a bad feeling that whatever is going to happen will be either using the wedding as a distraction, or taking place at the wedding itself,” Coltyn continued, pulling out an old trunk and digging through it. He pulled out a matching pair of earrings which attached with magnets. “Here, these earrings are enchanted to allow two ponies to communicate telepathically, even if neither of them has the ability to use magic. You will wear one, and I the other. Just think my name and I’ll be able to hear your next thoughts.”

Big Macintosh nodded, attaching the earring to his ear. “Be careful,” the massive draft pony said, before heading back out into the night. Coltyn pulled out a small box and removed several different herbs, to compound a very specific incense recipe. Once finished, he placed five censers containing the mix at the points of a pentacle he had long ago etched into the wooden floor. Lighting them, Coltyn sat in the middle and breathed deep the smoke, falling into a deep trance.

***

Coltyn roused from his trance completely refreshed just as the moon began to set, and began to prepare for the day to come. He very carefully dressed in the jacket Hoity Toity had created for him. While he was looking in the mirror, he saw the open trunk holding his battle armor. Coltyn looked at the armor and levitated a small pin with a crescent moon design out of the chest. ‘I shouldn’t need my armor,’ Coltyn thought, placing the pin back into the chest. ‘Although, I need to be ready for anything,’ he argued, lifting the pin back out of the chest and placing it under his collar. Looking in the mirror, he braided his mane and tail. Satisfied, he set off to look for Twilight as the sun broke the horizon.

Coltyn trotted through the streets, conducting a visual search, as well as maintaining a detection spell in the hope of finding his young friend. He combed a small part of the city by noon when a voice echoed in his mind. ‘Have you found her yet?’ Big Macintosh asked.

‘No. I haven’t found any sign of her or magic that would conceal her location,’ Coltyn responded.

‘Neither have I. I should have come with her,’ Big Macintosh thought.

‘We will find her. You should start heading in the direction of the mines. I’ll head for the castle.’

‘Alright, be careful.’

‘You, too.’

Coltyn continued to systematically search, always moving in the direction of the palace. The clock was ringing two when he finally got to the palace. He was ushered into the Grand Hall and casually looked around. When he noticed Thunder Snow among the guests who had already arrived, he approached her.

“Hello, Thunder Snow,” Coltyn greeted.

“Hello, Coltyn,” Thunder Snow said.

“Have you seen Cadence or Shining Armor?” Coltyn asked, looking around.

“No,” Thunder Snow replied, confused. “We got back only an hour ago. I only had time to get dressed and come here.”

“Please take your seats,” Princess Celestia said, taking her position.

“I’ll talk to you later,” Coltyn said, heading to the back of the hall.

“After the ceremony, I hope?” Thunder Snow said, moving toward her place in the third row.

“As you wish,” Coltyn smiled.

***

Big Macintosh searched the city as he made his way to the entrance of the Gem Mine. He reached the entrance as the clock struck three. He galloped hard knowing that time was short and he had to find Twilight soon. He got to the mine to see it boarded up with a ‘KEEP OUT’ sign posted in front. Not deterred by the sign he turned and kicked the planks that blocked his path.

The pieces of wood splintered apart and fell to the ground as Big Macintosh peered into the dimly lit cave. He could see large gem formations protruding from the walls, ceiling and floor. “TWILIGHT!!!” Big Macintosh bellowed into the cave, but the only sound he heard in response was the echo of his own voice reverberating off the gems. Realizing that it would be useless to call out only to hear the echo of his voice, he began to descend into the mine.

Big Macintosh wandered the labyrinth, searching desperately for Twilight. He noticed that the walls, ceiling, and floor seemed to be made up almost entirely of large crystalline gems. After trotting down several passages which led to dead ends he came to one that had a large gem sitting in the middle of the walkway. Examining the structure he found that it was covering up a hole in the floor. He put his hooves against the structure and pushed but it didn’t yield. He studied the structure of the gem and found where the gem had been broken off and firmly kicked it with his hind hoof. The giant gem cracked but still stood firm. Big Macintosh smirked as he put all his weight on his front hooves before bucking with all his might, causing the gem to crack and shatter and revealing a continuation of the mine.

“I want it!!!” Echoed through the hole as Big Macintosh looked inside.

He looked down to see a pink alicorn with a disheveled mane who was supposed to be getting married in the palace at that very moment, accompanied by the mare he’d been seeking.

“Twilight!” Big Macintosh called, tears forming in his eyes. Cadence looked at Twilight who smiled as she teleported up to where Big Macintosh was waiting. Big Macintosh wrapped his head around the back of Twilight’s neck as she rubbed her head along Big Macintosh’s strong neck and chest. “You’re safe,” Big Macintosh whispered.

Twilight broke the embrace, giving Big Macintosh a distressed look. “But my brother’s not. We need to stop that wedding.”

Big Macintosh nodded as he motioned them to follow him as he galloped back to the entrance.

***

Coltyn was in the back of the congregated ponies, looking back to the main door and waiting nervously to hear from Big Macintosh. Twilight’s friends and Luna were standing on the left side of the hall while Spike and the groomsmen were on the right. Shining Armor had just finished his vows as Big Macintosh’s voice rang through his head.

‘I found them!’

‘Good, you need to get up here now. Cadence is reciting her vows and this will be all over soon,’ Coltyn thought.

‘As soon as we clear the mine entrance Twilight will teleport us. Try to stall the wedding.’

Coltyn looked around and thought to himself, ‘how am I supposed to do that.’ He noticed one of the mares had a lipstick case sitting in her bag and quickly ‘borrowed’ it. ‘Well inflicting mass panic might do it,’ Coltyn thought as he began to scribe a rune to induce fear, making sure to have the rune not affect Twilight, her friends, the princesses, Big Macintosh, Shining Armor, Thunder Snow, and the guards.

“Princess Cadence and Shining Armor,” Princess Celestia announced. “It is my great pleasure to pronounce you…”

“STOP!!!” Twilight yelled, entering the Grand Hall.

The crowd chattered about the inappropriateness of the intrusion while Twilight’s friends looked ashamed and embarrassed by their friend’s actions.

“Why does she have to be so possessive of her brother,” Cadence snarled. Realizing what she said she started crying. “Why does she have to ruin my special day?”

“Because it’s not your special day! It’s mine!” Cadence asserted, entering the room with Big Macintosh right behind her.

The crowd gasped at the sudden appearance of another Cadence while Coltyn put the finishing touches on his rune.

“This isn’t possible!” Cadence insisted.

“I don’t understand. How can there be two of them?” Applejack asked.

“She’s a changeling. They take the form of somepony you love and gain power by feeding off that love,” Cadence explained.

Coltyn looked up to see Cadence’s eyes glow green as a wreath of green flames surrounded her. ‘No time like now.’ Coltyn thought as he watched the crowd shift back as the pony in front of him touched the rune. Everypony in the room except for the ones Coltyn exempted from the rune’s effect screamed in terror as they dispersed. The pegasus ponies took wing and flew out the windows while some of the unicorns teleported away as the earth ponies and unicorn’s that didn’t know how to teleport fled through the entrance leaving only the small group of ponies in the hall.

“Right you are, Princess,” the changeling gloated. “And as queen of the changelings it is up to me to find food for my subjects.” Chrysalis looked around at the emptied hall. “Equestria has more love than anyplace I’ve ever encountered. My fellow changelings will devour so much of it; we will gain more power than we’ve ever dreamed of,” She sneered.

“They won’t get that chance,” Cadence protested. “Shining Armor’s protection spell will keep them out.”

The other ponies took that as a relief until Chrysalis laughed. “I doubt that. He is under my control now. Isn’t that right, dear,” Chrysalis asked, turning to Shining Armor who nodded in agreement. “I’ve been feeding off his love for you and soon his spell will fail and Canterlot and all of Equestria will be ours.”

Thunder Snow having heard enough ordered the guards. “Guards! Seize her!” The six guards approached but encircled Thunder Snow and lowered their spears. “What is the meaning of this?” She asked.

“Oh, I forgot to mention… I dosed the guards’ supper with a powerful sleeping potion,” Chrysalis explained as the guards dropped their disguise revealing their true forms.

“How did you escape from Tartarus?” Coltyn asked, approaching the group.

“Ah, the long lived one. I just had a little help from Equestria’s hidden princess,” Chrysalis said.

Everypony looked at Luna who retorted. “Tis a lie! I would never aid a monster like you!” To which Chrysalis rolls her eyes.

Princess Celestia quickly glanced at Thunder Snow before returning her attention to Chrysalis. “Who told you of my other daughter?” Celestia snarled.

The entire room now looked at Celestia. “Mother?” Cadence asked. Twilight’s friends stood shocked to hear that Celestia was Cadence’s mother.

“It doesn’t matter at the moment,” Celestia insisted.

“Funny, how secrets find a way into the open isn’t it, Celestia?” Chrysalis sneered.

“SILENCE DEMON!!!” Celestia bellowed, charging the changeling.

Coltyn teleported Thunder Snow to his side.

“What’s happening?” Thunder Snow demanded.

“I’ll explain later. Right now we need to deal with them.” Coltyn readied his magic.

Two of the changelings charged at Coltyn and Thunder Snow while the others attacked Twilight and her friends. Spike pushed Cadence to a corner of the room as to not get caught in the crossfire. Coltyn and Thunder Snow showed their talents in combat as they dodged the changeling’s charge and in sync knocked the changelings into each other. The other ponies didn’t seem to have trouble with the normal changelings which put all attention on Celestia.

Celestia charged to gore the changeling queen with her horn but was parried. Rearing up on her back legs Celestia swung her hooves at Chrysalis who also reared up to deflect the blows. Pushing off each other and skidding backwards the two charged again, locking horns and staring into each other’s eyes with determination.

“You will provide much food for my subjects,” Chrysalis taunted.

“You won’t have the chance,” Celestia retorted, using her wings to gain distance.

Celestia’s horn glowed as a beam as bright as the sun shot forth. Chrysalis responded with a beam attack of her own. The sheer amount of energy meeting pushed all the ponies back away from the collision point – the brightness causing everypony to shield their eyes. Coltyn looked on, his magic shielding his eyes; he saw Celestia was succeeding in pushing back the changeling Queen, until Shining Armor’s eyes suddenly glowed green. Then, Chrysalis pushed back against Celestia’s beam until she hit her horn. The scream of pain pierced the ponies’ ears as the blinding light faded. Princess Celestia’s body fell limp on the floor.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight cried, running to her mentor.

“Get the Elements,” Celestia commanded, smoke rising from the scorched crack that had split her horn. “Defeat the queen.”

Twilight nodded to her friends, and the six of them ran out of the Grand Hall for the Temple of the Elements, accompanied by Big Macintosh, who was determined to protect Twilight. Chrysalis laughed maniacally. Coltyn, Luna, and Thunder Snow ran to Celestia’s side.

“Will she be alright?” Thunder Snow asked looking at the scorched and bleeding horn.

“Yes,” Coltyn said, stopping the bleeding. “Stay by her and protect her. I’ll deal with the changeling.” He spat the word out like it tasted bad, scowling at Chrysalis.

“You can run but you can’t hide,” Chrysalis called to the seven fleeing ponies.

“I’m not running and you will pay for your crime,” Coltyn stated, activating his pin. Coltyn’s body was covered in a dark aura as the pin centered on his chest. From the pin a metal chest piece wrapped around his neck as metal plates rolled down his spine extending around wrapping his chest and belly in metal. Reaching his flank the metal burst out into two plates to protect his hind quarters. Bracers and enclosed battle shoes adorned his lower legs as the metal wrapped his face and head. Opening his eyes wisps of black flowed from the corners; his horn glowing ready to cast. “For Equestria!” he shouted, rearing up in preparation to attack.

Luna’s eyes widened. “General?”

“What?” Thunder Snow asked, cringing at the loud cracking sound.

“I remember… my past,” Luna whispered, looking at Coltyn, her eyes reflecting pain.

Chrysalis snickered at the sound of Shining Armor’s shield falling. “My army now moves on the city. Soon, we will take over all of Equestria.”

“Not while I still defend her!” Coltyn screamed, charging.

As Coltyn locked horns with Chrysalis, his ears swiveled back, catching the sound of more changelings approaching. Chrysalis let out a blast of energy knocking Coltyn back. He recovered almost instantly, and faced Chrysalis once again, the Queen now surrounded by her changelings.

“You lose,” Chrysalis sneered. “Get them.”

Coltyn grinned as the hoard charged, his horn glowing. Coltyn let loose with a volley of concussive force bolts, knocking the charging changelings back. However, with each one he knocked back, two more took its place. His magic glowed around his neck then, after taking a deep breath, he let out an ear-piercing shout knocking a fair amount of the changelings out of the way, giving him a clear path to Chrysalis. He charged the queen, even as a few of the changelings tried to intercept him, but with flash teleports landing blows on any changeling that got in his way, he locked horns with the queen again.

“You are just as powerful as I’ve been told,” Chrysalis said.

“Then you know I will win,” Coltyn said coldly, breaking way.

Chrysalis’s horn shone as she drew power from Shining Armor. “Sooner or later you will run out of energy, but I have a constant supply.”

“We shall see,” Coltyn snarled, charging.

Coltyn was lunging at the queen in a straight gore attack, when gravity changed and he found himself falling up. He hit the ceiling hard, but before he could recover gravity returned, sending him plummeting toward the floor. Before he reached the floor, he teleported at the queen, slamming his body into hers and knocking them both to the ground. Chrysalis regained her hooves, shaken from the sudden blow as Coltyn rolled onto his hooves.

“That was an interesting use of teleport, mage,” Chrysalis growled.

“That was a simple change in momentum,” Coltyn replied, looking around. He saw Celestia being encased in a green cocoon while Luna and Thunder Snow were being cornered.

“But if you want to defeat me you’ll have to sacrifice those you held dear,” Chrysalis said.

“What do you know of me?” Coltyn challenged. “Who are you to speak of what I hold dear?”

Coltyn charged firing bolts of energy at the changeling who deflected them, laughing maniacally once more. He locked horns with her once again but his strength was beginning to wane as he broke away. Chrysalis grinned at the sound of the main doors opening. Coltyn saw a chance and charged. Before reaching the queen he was hit by a magic bolt, knocking him off his hooves. Tumbling across the floor he was struck by several more which slammed him into a wall. He felt the sticky slime coat his hooves keeping him in place. Looking over the hall he saw that the changelings had dragged Celestia to the ceiling in a full cocoon while Luna and Thunder Snow were covered in the same slime restraining him. Cadence and Spike had been found and they were restrained by Shining Armor.

“You won’t get away with this! Twilight and her friends will…” Cadence began, before seeing that Twilight had been captured.

Twilight and her friends had been bound in the slime and were dragged in by several changelings.

“You were saying,” A deep, sardonic voice echoed through the chamber.

Coltyn’s head snapped in the direction of the voice as the cloaked figure entered the Hall from the balcony, his eyes widening in recognition. The black unicorn pony stood as tall as Luna. Her mane and tail were distinctive – a white-streaked, deep blue – and cut short. She looked over to Coltyn with a malevolent, twisted grin.

“Hello, Father.”

Chapter 16 (Finale): Return of the King

Spring was upon Equestria and all the towns were wrapping up winter. It had been several months since the changeling attack on Canterlot and the backlash that shook the palace, but finally everything seemed to be at peace again. Blueblood had kept his word, working faithfully to earn the forgiveness of his family, and getting to know his younger half-sisters. Princess Wintra and Coltyn had formally announced their courtship after settling the mess Upper Crust had caused, though they made it very clear that they were not in any hurry to follow Cadance and Shining Armor’s example.

As the last of winter melted away, Princess Wintra looked over the city from her room in the castle with a smile. She saw the first of the birds returning with the morning sun when somepony knocked on her door. Trotting back into the room and opening the door, the mail-pony delivered an envelope and continued on her way.

Opening the letter, Wintra recognized the familiar scrawl of her adoptive mother’s writing. She smiled as she read the first lines, praising her for her accomplishments and having her birthright returned and a short apology for not being able to make it back from their home in Van Hoover. But as she continued reading her smile faded, then worry pulled the corners of her mouth into a slow frown. The town seemed to be in a losing battle as winter continued and there were numerous reports of unnatural wails haunting ponies outside of town. Wintra gathered a few things before setting off to wake Coltyn.

Coltyn had mostly been assisting Princess Wintra with the weather and the two of them had been able to increase food productivity in the last months before winter so there was plenty to last until spring. He was combing his mane when an urgent knock came.

“Who is it?” Coltyn asked.

“Pack some things. We’re going to Van Hoover,” Wintra’s voice informed. “It’s going to be cold.”

“Okay, I’ll be right out,” he replied. ‘This doesn’t sound good,’ he thought, putting some of his heavier cloaks into a saddlebag. Wintra was pacing in front of his door when he opened it. “So what’s wrong?”

Wintra began walking as she explained, “My mother wrote me and it seems that winter won’t end there. They get the ground cleared by mid-afternoon and the next morning there’s a new blanket of snow.” She was trotting quickly through the morning crowd as they made their way to the train station.

Wintra had a short talk with the clerk and was given two tickets to Van Hoover. They boarded the train and were led to a private car.

“This is the first time I’ll meet your parents,” Coltyn pondered aloud.

“Heh, yeah,” Wintra answered, her mind obviously elsewhere.

Coltyn nodded, as he wracked his mind for possible causes of such a hard winter. One possibility was windigos but they hadn’t been seen in Equestria since the unification of the tribes. But as they drew closer to Van Hoover that thought began to feel more and more plausible.

The train rolled to a halt at the southern end of town. Coltyn and Wintra exited the train, and a pair of earth pony guards saluted the princess. Taking in the surroundings Wintra saw several unicorns melting snow as the pegasi cleared the rogue clouds from the sky.

“Welcome Princess Wintra. I’m Captain Ironside and this is Commander Sentry,” the Captain greeted.

“What has been happening here?” Wintra asked the group heading out of the train station.

“We’re not completely sure. We finished changing the season as scheduled, but when morning came it looked like it was still winter,” Sentry explained. “We’ve been wrapping up every day only to have the snow back by morning.”

“Hasn’t the night watch noticed anything?” Wintra asked.

The captain shook his head. “It seems that about 0300 a horrible shriek is heard, the temperature drops sharply, and a mass of clouds roll in and drop almost a foot of snow, all in a single hour.”

“What could cause such an event?” Wintra wondered aloud.

“Windigos,” Coltyn answered, flatly.

The other ponies looked at Coltyn, as if hoping it was a joke. It wasn’t.

“Explain,” Wintra demanded.

Coltyn took a steadied breath and recited, “Remember what you know about Hearths Warming night. Windigos are half-horse spirits that seem to thrive on fighting and hatred. The more hate in the heart the colder the world becomes ‘til the body is as cold as the heart inside.”

“Well, I can’t say that there isn’t the occasional struggle and strife, but why now?” Ironside wondered.

“They’ve never come this far south,” Coltyn offered. “There hasn’t been any sign of them within the borders of Equestria for centuries – not since the war between the tribes ended.”

“Something must have driven them here,” Wintra posited. “I think we should get some rest, it looks like we’re going to be on third watch tonight.”

The two guards nodded, returning to their barracks. Wintra led Coltyn down the streets to her parents’ home. Wintra approached the door and knocked; an older mare answered and immediately embraced Wintra.

“I’ve missed you so much,” she said, a stray tear rolling down her cheek. “You must be the young stallion who’s courting her.”

“Yes ma’am. I’m Coltyn Pendragon.”

“Well please come in,” she offered with a warm smile. “Stormbreaker, we have company,” she announced, ushering them to the living room.

“Who is it Gentle Breeze?” A rugged voice called from upstairs.

“It’s Thunder Snow and her colt-friend Coltyn.” Gentle Breeze replied, going into the kitchen.
A moment later a well-built stallion descended the stairs.

“Well this is a pleasant surprise,” Stormbreaker smiled. “What brings you out this way?”

“The weather unfortunately, we’ve come to see if we can get this winter weather to stop,” Wintra explained. “I was hoping we could use the guest room; we’ll need to be up all night.”

“Of course, but before you leave, I want to catch up a bit.” Gentle Breeze set down a tray with a tea kettle and cups.

Wintra and Coltyn regaled her parents with tales from their lives, making sure to leave out the more unsavory parts. Coltyn noticed that Gentle Breeze didn’t seem to notice the leaps in the stories but a slightly raised brow on Stormbreaker’s face confirmed that he knew he wasn’t getting the whole story. Their idle chat was sidetracked when the front door opened.

“Mom, Dad, I’m home,” the young mare called, knocking the snow from her hooves.

“Lightning Dust dear, your sister is here,” Gentle Breeze said, going to retrieve another cup.

A young mare walked in to the living room, Coltyn figured she was in the same age range as Twilight and her friends. The teal fur and bicolored yellow and gold mane and tail with the sleek musculature showed that she was very athletic. She nodded at Coltyn and Wintra, taking a seat across from them, as Gentle Breeze placed another cup in front of Lightning.

“So how was your day?” Stormbreaker asked.

“Slow as usual,” Lightning Dust drawled. “I can’t wait to get to the academy.”

“You were accepted to the Wonderbolt’s Academy?” Wintra asked, pride in her voice.

Lighting smirked, “Yeah, going show all those noobs how it’s done.”

Wintra took a thoughtful sip from her cup. “I think you might have some competition.”

“Really? I doubt that,” Lightning scoffed. “I’m the best flyer in Van Hoover.”

“I don’t doubt it; just know that you’re not the first pony to make that claim.” Wintra placed her cup down. “Sadly we have to be up for third watch and need to get some rest. Please excuse us.”

Nodding a polite farewell, the two headed towards the bedrooms. Just before they reached the end of the hall, Lightning Dust called out, “Congrats on the whole horn thing, by the way.”

“Thanks,” Wintra smiled before heading to bed.

“Sibling rivalry?” Coltyn asked teasingly.

“You have no idea.”

***

The moon was taking its place in the night sky as Coltyn and Wintra met with Captain Ironside and Commander Sentry. They decided to meet back together at 02:45 in the northern part of town to try to find the winter spirits. The time passed without incident; everypony was locked in their homes, not wanting to meet any of the spirits. The four gathered together at the appointed time and waited, Wintra took the highest building top giving her a clear view of the sky while Coltyn and the guards patrolled the outskirts.

At three o’clock the temperature dropped sharply, everypony scanned for the cause. The three on the ground didn’t see it, but Wintra did. A spark of light glowed dimly in the distance, the moon light reflecting off something, followed by the whine of Windigos. She saw one of the peaks of the Crystal Mountains shift and a growing darkness form beyond the light, as if it was attempting to swallow the light, then a louder cry echoed across the town. Massive storm clouds built around the shifting mountain growing rapidly as the wind picked up and snow began to fall. The mountains were soon obscured as the blizzard formed, covering the land in snow and ice. Wintra, having seen enough, descended, meeting with Coltyn and the others.

“There is a disturbance near the Crystal Mountains which seems to be the reason for this weather. We must go and find the cause if we are to stop this endless winter,” Wintra decreed.

“When shall we leave?” Coltyn inquired.

Looking out to the mountain, “After the weather stabilizes,” Wintra confirmed.

“It won’t be too long, this usually only last an hour,” Sentry informed.

“Then Coltyn and I shall leave then,” Wintra nodded.

“I would recommend that you take Sentry with you,” Ironside proposed, “He knows the lay of the land and will help get you there safely.”

“That would be appreciated,” Wintra smiled, “Captain Sentry you are now a Royal Guard.”

Sentry snapped to attention, saluting, “Yes, Princess.”

“Good. As soon as the weather lets up we are leaving.”

***

The weather let up and by five o’clock the three ponies were on the road to the Crystal Mountains. They walked using a Haste spell, allowing them to cover the almost three day trek in one day. They reached the valley which due to the raging windigos was covered in snow, except for a patch of land just at the foot of the mountains. The three exchanged looks of confusion and approached with caution. They reached the perimeter, looking at the massive snowless area.

“What happened here?” Wintra pondered aloud.

“I have no idea,” Coltyn replied, stumped.

“It looks like a huge city just up and vanished,” Sentry commented.

Coltyn’s eyes widened, “It can’t be.” He walked to the barrier and reached out a hoof. He felt the familiar residue of black magic that seemed to permeate the area.

“What is it?” Wintra asked.

“This area reeks of black magic. A powerful spell was cast here,” Coltyn shivered.

“Could you undo the spell?” Wintra queried.

“I don’t know what will happen. This is extremely powerful magic.”

“Do it. I don’t want this evil sullying the land.”

“Stand back.” Coltyn’s horn flared as whips of purple energy flared from the corners of his eyes. He let the magic flow, slowly reconstructing the seal that covered the land. The outline of a giant snowflake appeared in the valley and with a final push of power the valley was bathed in a blinding light.

As their vision returned, the three ponies stood before a huge city sprawl, three gems floated between two crystal pillars, marking the entrance. A huge white crystal castle stood at the center of the city surrounded by the many businesses and homes of the residents.

“This is incredible,” Sentry uttered in amazement.

“This entire city was here this whole time?” Wintra questioned with bewilderment.

“Oh no. No! Not him. This is bad,” Coltyn gasped, suddenly panicked. “Sentry, return to Canterlot and tell Princess Celestia that ‘IT’ has returned.”

“Coltyn, what is the matter with you?” Wintra demanded.

“This empire was lost over a thousand years ago – before I was foaled. I don’t know much except that it was ruled by the most evil unicorn to ever walk Equestria,” Coltyn explained. “Celestia must be informed immediately, time is of the essence.”

“Very well, Sentry, return to Canterlot and pass on Coltyn’s message,” Wintra ordered.

“It’s a long run back to Canterlot,” Sentry stated.

“I’ll teleport you to a cart in the royal carriage house, please tell Princess Celestia that ‘IT’ has returned.”

Sentry nodded as Coltyn wrapped him in magic, teleporting him to Canterlot.

“So now what?” Wintra asked.

“Now, we have to protect this city until the others arrive. We should go to the castle.”

The two walked into the town hoping to find the ponies that lived there and get some information but it wouldn’t be so. Everypony seemed to be in a deep magical slumber. Coltyn was amazed that none of them seemed to have aged a day in the over one thousand years they were gone. They reached the castle and nopony was inside, this put both Wintra and Coltyn on edge.

“I would have thought that somepony would be here,” Wintra pondered, walking into the throne room.

“They’re most likely in some kind of trance elsewhere. We need to let the others know what’s happening.” Coltyn pulled a card and quill from his pack and quickly wrote a letter.

‘To Cadance and Shining Armor;
Princess Wintra and I have gone to confront the windigos; there are other dangers that exist. Please keep the empire safe.
Coltyn Pendragon’

He set the parchment on the throne and turned toward the door.

“So we’re just leaving a note and leaving?” Wintra asked confused.

“We have to try and stop him from returning here,” Coltyn sighed. “I will go and face him alone if you wish to wait for your sister.”

“I lost you once already, I’m not about to have that happen again,” Wintra teased.
Coltyn nodded, smiling as the pair made their way out into the frozen tundra.

***

After a few hours of trudging through an ever raging storm they reached the center. Looking up they saw countless windigos circling a black crystal. Coltyn knew that the crystal contained the same dark magic that was used to conceal the empire. But before they could inspect it further a black pulse fired up from the crystal, exploding and causing the windigos to disperse. Coltyn and Wintra noticed that the crystal was cracked. Viscous black smoke seeped out of the crack, pooled together, and began to form into a translucent pony.

“Ah, I’m free,” the pony grinned, then noticed Coltyn and Wintra. “And I even have escorts to bring me back to my empire.”

“No,” Wintra scowled, “we’re here to stop you.”

The pony broke out in maniacal laughter. “Even in my current state I, King Sombra, can defeat both of you.”

Coltyn didn’t hesitate to prove him wrong and fired an energy blast for his head. Sombra turned into black smoke, avoided the attack, and retreated away from them. Wintra took to the sky and began firing ice blasts at Sombra while Coltyn chased firing his own energy blasts. Wintra was able to close to point blank range when suddenly Sombra leaped at her, engulfing her in his smoke body. When she reemerged black crystals had grown from her horn and she seemed to be disoriented as she crashed to the ground. Coltyn rushed to her side lifting her head to his.

“What did you do to her?” Coltyn demanded.

“Just a little gift to keep her magic in check,” Sombra smirked. “Now return me to my empire, foal!”

“You’ll never reign over those ponies again,” Coltyn affirmed.

Coltyn charged firing his horn at the smoke body but Sombra made holes allowing the blast to pass through unharmed.

“You’ll never beat me if you can’t hit me,” Sombra mocked.

Coltyn composed himself, breathing heavily, “Then let me show you something special.”

Coltyn gather energy in the tip of his horn, allowing a dark mass to form. His eyes turned black as the whips of purple formed around his eyes. Sombra looked on with intrigue as the energy sparked around Coltyn.

“Dark Force Blast!” Coltyn shouted, releasing a massive wall of dark energy at Sombra.

Sombra countered by creating a shield causing a massive energy struggle as the two pushed against each other trying to gain the upper hoof. Coltyn could feel that he was pushing Sombra’s spell back but it was taking a lot more energy than he though it should. He continued to push more energy into the spell, focusing on the point of resistance, trying to break through the shield but he could feel that he was reaching his limits. But he felt so close that he continued to push until there was no more in him, causing him to collapse. He looked up through the snow to see that although Sombra’s smoke form had weakened; he hadn’t killed him.

“So close,” Sombra huffed clearly exhausted, turning toward the Crystal Empire. “Have fun freezing to death.”

As Sombra’s form faded into the building snow storm Coltyn laid in the snow completely spent. A single tear froze against his cheek as his vision faded to black.

***

Wintra rubbed her head as she regained her senses. She watched as Sombra faded into the white tundra. She immediately looked for Coltyn who lay in the snow, motionless. She ran to him holding him close. She saw his chest rise and fall; she sighed with relief as she tried to teleport them but felt her magic cycle back upon itself. She looked up at her horn and saw little black specks across the length of her horn.

Wintra cursed under her breath as she pulled Coltyn onto her back. She saw a cave in the ice wall and dragged Coltyn inside before the windigos howled, announcing their return. Wintra covered Coltyn with her body as she felt the temperature plummet. She held onto him feeling the icy chill of the windigos aura around her, but her love and want to protect Coltyn shielded her from their powers.

She held him for hours before the chill wind stopped. She finally looked up to see that they were sealed into the cave. Wintra kicked the entrance but the ice wall was extremely thick. She snorted in frustration as she returned and curled up at Coltyn’s side. Knowing that there was nothing to do, she drifted off to sleep.

***

Coltyn awoke with the motion of something curling into the side of his chest. When he looked down he saw Wintra pressed against his body, most likely to keep them both warm. He looked around and noticed that they were in an ice cave with no visible exit. He sighed as Wintra turned, looking up at him.

“Glad to see you’re finally awake.”

“Yeah, I really need to stop expending my magic like that,” Coltyn realized. “So where are we? What happened to Sombra?”

“We’re stuck in an ice cave thanks to the windigos that returned after Sombra began making his way to the empire.”

“I hope we delayed him long enough for your sister and her husband to get to the empire. How long was I out?”

“So do I,” Wintra sighed, leaning into Coltyn. “You were out for I figure two or three days. What’s his story anyhow?”

“I asked that same question a long time ago. I was browsing my grandfather’s library when I came across one of his old journals that mentioned an Empire of Crystal. I looked other places but it was the only tome that mentioned this empire. When I asked him about it; I could see the pain on his face. He simply said, ‘Nopony likes to discuss their failures.’ I was shocked, my grandfather, Starswirl Pendragon, had failed.

“I wanted to know what could have hurt him so much that he would completely shut me out. He was almost too willing to regale stories of his life, except this one. I knew of only two others who would know the truth so I sought an audience with Princess Celestia, as she was Starswirl’s closest friend. She told me that a unicorn had gone to the empire, enslaved the crystal ponies, and brought misery and despair to the empire. He was defeated and the kingdom disappeared with him. She then asked me to, ‘let the wounds of the past heal.’

“I couldn’t leave it though; this had only raised more questions. I searched the archives looking for some answers only to find that any information about the empire ether didn’t exist or was removed. Shortly before my graduation Starswirl passed away, leaving everything to me, his only grandchild. As I dug through the scrolls and notes I found his personal diary, as I read it all became clear.

“Sombra was an apprentice of Starswirl's who was skilled and craved knowledge. He eventually found tomes on how to harness negative emotion to gain more power with the use of dark magic: Necromancy, Blood Magic, and Curses. He used that power to enslave the citizens of the Crystal Empire. The battle between him and Celestia's and Luna's parents was fierce, ending with his imprisonment but it cost them their lives. Starswirl was able to reclaim the tomes before the empire was lost with Sombra’s defeat. He locked the tomes and the journal in a secure chest and hid it with magic. I only found it because I knew he had a habit of hiding things that way. As I read through Sombra’s tomes I realized that without protecting the user’s soul the dark magic corrupts and drives the user mad.

“I learned the maddening magic but refused to use it. I needed a way to protect my soul from the corruption which is when I looked into the rare element known as Darksteel. I thought it would make me invincible but I was wrong. It basically froze me in time, I don’t age and after Nightmare Moon’s defeat I had no purpose. I was dead but couldn’t die so I focused on the only thing that seemed to give me reason, revenge.”

“So what happened; what changed?” Wintra ask curiously.

“You happened. You gave me purpose and a reason to continue. You saved me from self-destruction and a dark path had you not been born before Nightmare Moon’s return.”

“I’m afraid I don’t understand. What did I do?”

“When you were taken by Midnight Eclipse and I saw you, quivering and blood-soaked, I saw the true result of my dark heart and deeds. I took you away and sealed your wound but with all my knowledge I couldn’t do anything to save your horn. I looked at you and realized that I had to find a way to heal the damage. So upon returning you to Princess Celestia I set out with renewed purpose, to return what is rightfully yours. I relentlessly pored over tomes and medical journals for years, hoping to find an answer but broken horns were never something that was researched. As with you it was a matter of file down the horn and live as an earth pony or pegasus in your case. I could fill a library with the scrolls I’ve made but until I discovered the bond you shared with your sister, I couldn’t find the answer: love. Love is a truly remarkable force.”

The earth began to tremble under them, looking around Coltyn formed a shield around them just as a blast hit the front of the cave, revealing the exit. The two walked out greeted by a cool breeze and a bright azure sky on a winter afternoon. They looked up to see vivid streaks of magenta, blue, and yellow cross the sky.

“They did it,” Coltyn sighed with relief.

“Then let us return. I’m sure my sister is worried,” Wintra smiled, looking at her undefiled horn, walking back to the valley.

***

Looking down over the valley the Crystal Empire gleamed as streams of pink, blue, and yellow energy extended from the castle's peak. Coltyn and Wintra made their way down to the entrance and the entire town felt live. They looked around, feeling a completely different vibe then when they first arrived. There was life here again and all the ponies looked as if they were made of crystal rather than plain fur. Making their way up to the castle, they were greeted by a surprising sight; Cadance, Shining Armor, Spike, Twilight, and her friends all were crystalline as well.

"What happened?" Wintra asked in disbelief.

"That is a long story, which I think would best be told over the feast the crystal ponies offered to arrange," Cadance smiled, showing signs of exhaustion.

"It'll be held in the main dining hall this evening," Shining Armor added. "We must retire until then." Shining Armor urged Cadance back to the castle to get some much needed rest.

Wintra and Coltyn were taken by the others and shown around the town. As they made their way to the different sights Coltyn couldn't help but notice that Twilight seemed down hearted, though she wore a smile. Something was bothering her and given whom they had just fought, it could be any number of reasons. But that would have to wait until after dinner.

***

Over dinner Spike regaled the with - and from the exasperated look on Twilight's face every once and a while, embellished - their journey to find the Crystal Heart. Though his story was grand Coltyn felt that something was off; how did they find the secret staircase and what other traps did they find? Coltyn knew any mage worth his salt wouldn't just let the answer be straight forward. What Spike left out was probably the source of Twilight's quietness earlier. He would make sure she was alright when the others weren't around.

***

Late that night Coltyn wandered the castle to see if his suspicions were correct. He almost thought that he was wrong until he came to the throne room. There was Twilight, staring at the floor just in front of the throne.

"How are you holding up?" Coltyn asked, approaching her.

"I don't know," she choked. "So much happened in such a short time, I just don't know."

"You faced a powerful dark magic user. Maybe you'd feel better if you told me what really happened."

She nodded. "It was horrible. The first time I tried to cast a dark spell it was hard, I struggled to cast the spell Princess Celestia used to show me what would happen if Sombra took the Empire. My test was to save the Empire but I failed. I utterly failed," she sobbed as tears flowed down her cheeks.

Coltyn tried to find the words to comfort her.

"How do you keep control?" She turned, looking at Coltyn with her bloodshot eyes. "All it took was one little annoying door to use that magic again. It's such a violation of everything I've been taught. My soul feels tainted and I fear what might happen if I lose control or get angry again. I don't want to hurt my friends." She shuddered, the memory she saw flashing through her mind. "I don't want to fail Princess Celestia."

"I don't know," Coltyn admitted. "The first time I used dark magic was against a griffin. I didn't have control. I was fueled by rage and it consumed me and unleashed all my hate upon him. I told nopony of what I did and kept it all secret. It took a long time for me to assert my control over the magic alone."

Twilight looked down, "So I'm going to be alone in this battle."

"No, you have ponies who care for you and want you to be safe and happy. You are lucky, they can help keep the darkness at bay by being a light for you and I will be there as well as a guide through the darkness."

"My real concern is that now that I've used it I'll want to learn more. Kind of a downside to being an academic when it comes to magic. I just can't get enough and when I learn of something new I want to know all there is to know about it."

"I understand, but know this, Twilight: I will not teach you any dark magic. I can show you how to control the urge to use it but that is all," Coltyn firmly stated. "However, if after careful consideration and a comprehensive discussion of the risks and potential benefits of such knowledge, the Princesses agree that you should learn, then I will... but not before."

Twilight nodded, "I can understand that, especially after what I've seen it do."

"I can tell you that the journey from darkness isn't easy but the light you find at the end will make it worth the trip," Coltyn smiled, putting a hoof on her shoulder. "I believe that with your friends by your side there is nothing that you can't do."

Twilight nodded, smiling. "It's late and I have to catch the train tomorrow. Goodnight." She gave a quick hug before returning to her room.

Coltyn looked up at the throne, "Though you learn a lot about yourself on a journey through darkness, there is nothing better than finding the light of redemption."