Chapters The Solar Flare:
By Celestia Nyx Nova:
Prologue: The Age Of Contemplation:
“Together, they would watch everything that was so carefully planned collapse, and they would smile at the beauty of destruction.”
Markus Zusak.
When most consider the epitome of fear: there are often mixed answers:
''Death!''
''Starvation!''
''Prejudice!''
No matter the reason why, how said fear came to light is the most important. It sounds like a boorish term, but that was the current way of truly explaining oneself in a time of hopelessness and subjugation.
How else can you explain your innate ability to be unprepared or understanding the unknown? That is a question many took the precious time out of their day to think. Just think on the feeble matter of this infinite concept. But...in times of hardship, ideals can be corrupted, and it was thus-
''Die, you insufferable taint! Be banished from this realm for all eternity!''
a new age of values and morals came to be the supreme way of life for this cold, desolate broken shell of a utopia. The main question of all this is to ask yourself: how do you deal with conflicting emotions? Emotions that drive your mind to its limitations, only to become the product of your own creation. As the great historical figures mentioned time in, as well time out again through varying interpretations:
False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil.
But now, something else lingers in the darkness, so close to the shadows that it too threatens to consume both in a brilliant light of chaos. It resides within all, but-
*splash!*
The rain sprinkled with haste, blanketing the once silent earth with mud. Ahead lay a never-ending slope of mud, leading down to a dip in the foundation of the small cottage some few yards away. Every so often, the cackling sounds of thunder and lighting revealing three shapes, two of them Equine in nature whilst the other reptilian and scaly.
''So how do you want to handle this one?'' a gruff voice called, signs of fatigue present.
''Should we check for survivors? Maybe they weren't all caught,'' a female voice offered, a slight tinge of pride accompanying it.
''Perhaps.'' the third and final voice semi-agreed. ''but that is a chance we cannot allow: we're wasting as it is: plus I already performed a scan: no life forms for the next 50 miles,'' this one seemed to carry the most burden of the trio. ''we have to go.''
Shuffling forward, the only sounds piercing the air besides the steady rainfall was the rhythmic breathing from the cold.
''Ugh, remind again how this happened here, i'm not sure I follow seeing as this used to be a good town,''
''You mean you still don't know? Did you listen to anything Master Dai told us back in Sandgen?''
''Oh, i'm sorry: I was just busy keeping the harpies at bay!''
''Quiet, the both of you! Spike, you should have been taking notes like I told you, and you Sunset: while I appreciate you saving our lives back there, you could have at least shown a little skill in the art of multi-tasking. Every second is crucial to us as we may not get this chance again, so focus!''
''Sorry, Twi,'' the pair apologized.
''Good, now according to our intel, our target should be at The Blade's Edge, a few klicks North, so gear up.''
Agreeing either way, the trio moved forward at a swift pace, trying their best to keep from any prying 'eyes', lest the Children Of Nightmare come knocking. Relaying across the path, small structures and corpses lay strewn about, battling a fight with Father Time as the blanket of hot, acrid air chipped away and the distant rumbling of clouds portrayed a swirling vortex of despair around the town. Dragging herself with a slower stride, Twilight Sparkle stopped to realize two things.
''You know, she called from behind. ''you're half right: this was a good town...until that day reared its ugly head. We made a lot of friends here, Spike haven't we?''
''Mmm-hmm,'' the drake agreed. ''hard to believe their not all with us now,''
''I know,'' Twilight sighed, running a golden armoured hoof through the rubble in front. ''hard to believe this only started 1000 years ago, right after we took down Tirek. The world went downhill from there.'' she brought a picture untouched by time in her field of magic for her comrades to see.
''W-We really should get going, Twi.'' Spike advised.
''Good idea.'' the trio sped off, moving past the wreckage and out on the mountains plain, yet none looked back to the still standing sign that portrayed:
Ponyville's Golden Oak Library/ Castle of Former Princess Twilight Sparkle.
Some time later:
The pair trudged on for what seemed like miles, past the Satorian Mt. Ridge, over Ghastly Gorge, and even through what remained of the Everfree forest: cold, hungry, angered and most of all: lost in the growing maze of Equestria by the day. Nightfall consumed a good portion of their journey into the ever so rising sun, a sight and feeling Twilight held deep hatred for.
''Great, it's up again.'' Twilight ducked behind a lone, bushy tree. ''why can't night be permanent?''
''Oh come on, Twi: you don't hate it that much.'' Spike waved a claw in naivety.
''You wouldn't know,''
''Spike!'' Sunset scolded. ''you should know better.''
''Whatever,'' Spike huffed into his clasped claw over his maw. ''just speaking the truth. And as a matter of fact, I-
''That goes for both of you.'' Twilight began to cut into her companions.
''Me, what did I do?'' Sunset pointed a hoof to herself in shock. ''he started it!''
''And now i'm ending it! You have no idea of the pain I went through all thanks to this d-d-damn sun and all it stands for!''
...
''I had a good life: friends, books, all the basic necessities that made me me,'' Twilight sniffled. ''I'm the Princess of Friendship, and how do you expect me to be that if I have no friends or wings? Look at me!'' Twilight gestured to herself, showing off the dark and gold plated armour surrounding her forehooves, body plate that hugged her slender purple frame, brown cloak draped over her neck and friendship tiara given a rustic and gated look from the Victorian Pony era, colors of the different elements uptop the star of her cutie mark.
''Well, yea you lost your wings, but that doesn't make you any more or less different than us: you're still Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship.'' Spike sat and stretched, a few bones popping from the sudden movement.
''I agree with Spike: I mean, would you think I'm a Princess or Alicorn because I have bat wings?'' Sunset smirked, portraying her curved fangs, furry pointed ears, and leathery wings. ''Nergal the Insatiable accidentally bit me when we did our little expedition to the Minotaur Plains. and while I didn't want that to happen, I don't regret that.''
''Because it wasn't your destiny...it was mine and it was taken from me.''
''So why here? Why Canterlot?'' Sunset wondered.
''Because...we need to talk to Princess Luna about getting clearance.''
''For what exactly?''
''Operation Godmode.''
Yes, even the greatest of influences hold hatred to their beliefs or in their lives, but Twilight soon discovers that a new evil lurks closer than ever before, but the only way to know it to see. The only way forward is to go down. This is the tale of how one word changes the tide of any front: envy.
Infiltration Part 2:
Run, send the spider to the fly.
The halls of Canterlot were famed for many things: a diplomatic haven, noted for the stylish decor and depictions of saviors. A place where it seemed no bad was allowed to fester. Down a hallway led to a pair of indigo double doors marked with the insignia of a crescent moon. The moonlight illuminated past the stained mosaic glass tiles before refracting into the eyes of an unfortunate Night guard. However, these are not ordinary Night Guards.
''Ah!'' Charcoal winced, covering his good eye with a hoof. ''How you managed to get me to switch spots with you is beyond me,'' he cast a annoyed look to his partner. ''you sure we can't spar about it? I only lost because you tripped me.''
''Sorry, no get backs,'' Blank replied, smirking. ''you lost fair and square plus how do you think I felt when I was over there? Char-char?''
''I told you ,'' the batpony whispered before checking around the corner. ''don't call me that!''
Unfurling her wings, Blank removed her helmet before narrowing her head as she smiled to her partner, deep yellow eyes leveling with Charcoal's.
''Or what?''
SHINK!
''Or this.'' Charcoal deadpanned, unsheathing his electric claws, the lone stare in his one eye being more than enough to persuade her.
''Not on duty: we've enough rein without the princess bearing down our necks,''
''Speaking of her, where is she? Princess Luna always comes to bed around this hour.''
''Haven't you heard the latest? Ever since the random earthquakes and tsunamis plaguing the West, she's been in the Royal Archives for the past week looking for ways to combat that: tonight makes it her 8th night,'' Blank leaned against the door. ''so we've been given time to relax and do abso-freakin'lutey nothing.''
"So we are basically guarding her empty room?'' Charcoal asked to which his partner nodded. ''so does that mean?''
''Exactly, he's been itching for a beat-down. Come on, we got 30 minutes before the Princess comes back: I got some new ideas,'' the pair trotted off for a distant sector of the castle to conduct their duties. However...
''So what did you have in mind this time?'' Blank snickered.
''I was thinking the foal who cried Timberwolf approach.''
The last thing anyone was able to decipher before the pair turned down a hallway was: ''Poor Blueblood!''
''What a unproductive night.'' the princess of the night murmured, observing the momentary peace. Ever since she agreed to investigate the recent issues plaguing the West, less and less plausible information have surfaced. Keeping a calm pace back to her bedchambers, Luna cast a quick glance to the satchel on her back.
''Well, we did accept the West's plea for help, and we shall carry out what has been asked,'' Luna groaned. ''Perhaps I should call some help for this.''
Then again, Luna realized that she often possessed...issues when it comes to asking others for help. life in her shoes has been nothing short of difficult, however in this case, she would have to call in a favor.
Turning to the right, Luna's bedchambers came into view down the hall, but where were Blank and Charcoal? They specifically have been instructed to wait by her door: she needed them here for an important meeting. But where could they be?
''Perhaps messing with Blueblood again...no matter, I have done my part and am better off for it. Now time to rest,''
Shink!
''Whoa!'' Luna ducked behind the corner, narrowly avoiding the serrated hunting knife that moved at such speed, it shattered the nearby vase and stopped into the wall.
''Great,'' Luna whispered. ''We do not need this crap right now.'' Paying a close on the intruder's movements from the mirror to her right, all she was able to see was the figure was equine in nature, a long cloak draped over them. The hallway was deadly quiet to a point where a rat could piss on the fine velvet carpet.
Sending a mental plea for assistance to her guards, the lunar princess readied for combat. Bringing a indigo spark of magic to her horn, a white flash briefly engulfed her. Equipped in a new garb, a periwinkle combat attire complete with knee guards, reinforced chest plate, helmet with wing guards and her trademark insignia.
''Who. Is. There?''
...
...
''You know, I would really appreciated a better reception from you, Luna ,''
That can't be right!
Silently charging her magic, Luna touched her horn to the ground, a sound akin to a sonar pinging in her mind as she breathed a quick sigh of relief. Moving around and trotting towards the figure, their hood was magicked away to reveal a mare, considerably shorter and less built than her with a pink coat, magenta eyes and a wonderfully kept mane and tail with a sea of color.
''Cadence...I trust you are well?''
''Yes, auntie,'' Cadence blushed. ''Sorry about almost taking your head off, it was kinda a reflex seeing as nopony else really is allowed in this hallway.''
''And yet you were the one wearing the cloak ,'' Luna thought.
''So what brings you here?''
Ears splaying to her head, Cadence sat on her haunches and cast a look to Luna, her eyes displaying mixed emotions.
''I felt a disturbance...and wanted to see if you were okay,''
In most cases, her intuition rarely failed Luna: a quality she took full of honing whereas she lacks it. Bringing her niece inside her room, Luna also began to feel something stir so close to home, but what could it be? Whatever it is, Luna did feel the urge to keep her battle garb on.
''Take a seat on the bed, we have much to discuss.''
''Whoo! And that is how you make the feathers fly!''
''Okay, Kouri: we get it. You got us here quick, what do you want, a cookie?''
''Actually, I would, but after we this punk out and get paid, I can have whatever I want,''
Looking ahead, the entrance to the crystal caverns looked as bleak as ever.
''So what's the plan?'' Fluttershy scouted ahead, casting a curious look to the unknown.
''Simple, darling. We go in, apprehend the ruffian, and be done before you know it,''
Viewing the entrance, an eerie presence seemed to linger not too far from where they stood. Princess Luna was always known to be a pony who her word carried not only power, but trust: and with that trust come sacrifice. Sniffing the air, Redgar snarled before conjuring a swarm of fire from his paw.
''Hah!'' the fire sped into the cavern, the intensity lighting the way down as a screech resembling the bellows of a banshee forced everyone's ears to tremble and curl up.
''Do you think?'' Rarity wondered.
''Clickers?'' Kouri guessed. Ignoring their conversation, Redgar paid close attention to the opening, then a small light grew in size, right towards him.
''Get down!'' the blast came back with more energy, striking a nearby pillar that reduced it to ash.
''...Okay, Clickers can't redirect fire, especially mine so we must be dealing with an alchemist of some sort. Team, stay alert,'' the werewolf king reached into his backpack, pulling out a strange, slanted object with a smooth wooden handle, sleek painted base along a guard and gold pull lever.
''Is that?''
''Precisely what you think: Apotheoses's pistol, but I got a good price: two for one,'' he uncovered a second one. ''Suit up.''
Concentrating on her aura, Rarity's horn took on a scarlet glow before a flash overtook her. Her normally white coat began to darken, height grew a considerable amount with her eyes turning a pale white with blue, chilled pupils. Her curly mane and tail swayed out, taking a white and indigo look. Lastly, her horn grew slicker and taller.
Fluttershy, being the avid thinker already sought to stay in her Vampire fruit bat form. And Kouri merely ruffled his wings. Entering the fray, the group focused on the slightest of movements that may lead them to their suspect.
Canterlot City District:
The vibrant city of Canterlot once earned the title of the best city in Equestria. However, as of late, petty criminals have weaved past the local enforcement and caused mayhem and danger or in the princesses's case: a nuisance.
Walking up the cobblestone path, Twilight cast a wandering look at the very few historic buildings that remained intact as others were completely renovated. With all that's happened over the years, she figured that more would be gone in such a short time. Reviewing the memories she once had being here failed to comfort her mild distress ever since Nergal threatened to flatten the place when he was drunk.
''Twilight...we're here,'' Spike fiddled with his claws. Looking to the Canterlot Castle, a slight throbbing in the unicorn's head forcing her to back up a tad.
''Twi, it's okay,'' Sunset comforted. ''we're right here, you know.''
''Yeah, this is not like last time,'' Spike patted her back. ''we got your back.''
''Thanks guys, I feel a little better. Come on, we shouldn't keep Luna waiting any longer.''
Going past the Night guards, the long hallway leading to the throne room beckoned them to go forward.
''So, that's basically the gist of what is to transpire. If my student could show up at any moment, I would be most grateful,'' Luna huffed.
''You never did tell me who that is? An entire 17 years went by and I still can't put my hoof on who,'' Cadence held her chin to her hoof in confusion.
''Worry not, you see them soon enough with two of my late apprentices.''
The current conversation only contained little words, just to stall for time until the real business can commence. Hearing a trio of knocks on the door in a familiar pattern, Luna somewhat smiled and frowned.
''Come in.'' Luna sternly demanded.
The door opening, Luna looked to see her two most trusted Night guards panting heavily,
''P-Princess Luna, what is it that brings you here?'' Blank smiled.
''This is our room, Blank. The better question would be why you and Charcoal were not at your post?!''
''That would be my fault, princess: we got distracted with-
''Enough!'' Luna halted all conversation. ''You have your jobs, do them. And should this happen again without notifying me, you will face the punishment of hearing Discord sing,''
''Yes, princess!'' the pair rushed back outside.
''...Well, that was a thing,'' Cadence deadpanned.
''Oh, please, they do this all the time and they never do what I say.''
Putting that aside, the pair stayed silent for a few minutes, waiting for the other to speak. That was cut short by the door swiftly opening, revealing the long awaited guests.
''Ah, my students, I trust you have been well?''
''Of course, princess.'' Sunset bowed. ''I trust you called us here for something?''
''Yes, I hope you were not busy when I requested your aid.''
''Not at all, Luna.'' Spike waved a claw dismissively. ''we'd be happy to help you in any way.''
It always brought a smile to her face to hear that she could always rely on those who she needs the most. But wait, where was-
''Spike? Sunset Shimmer?'' Cadence asked. ''So then, the third is?-
''Princess Luna!'' Twilight trotted in happily. ''It's so nice to see again!''
Huh?
This. Made. No. Sense.
Cadence was so confused. How could these three her students? She was under the impression that-
''I know you may seem confused at the turn of events, Cadence, but the truth is not what you are thinking,'' Luna read her thoughts.
''B-But how? I saw them die at Finder's Keep! How can they still be here?''
Taking a moment to register her question, Luna plainly said: ''Magical copies.''
''Wait, that's Cadence?'' Twilight backpedaled.
Getting off the bed and slowly walking towards the unicorn, Twilight ran rampant with her thoughts. Feeling a hoof touch her shoulder, she managed to look to the Earth pony's colored orbs. After a few tense minutes, the silence was broke.
''I-Is it really y-you?''
Twilight wanted to say yes, but some force inside kept her from speaking. Why? How can this be so hard to explain something so simple? All she could do in this position was to just give a nod. Hearing Cadence hold back her tears to no avail put a smile on Twilight's face as she embraced the mare in a loving hug.
''It's really you,'' she kept repeating over and to none in particular.
''Wait.'' Cadence backed away. ''If you're really Twilight, then you should know what this means.''
***
Some time passed as the group talked among one another, sharing tales of different jobs and experiences. The atmosphere was lively until...
''Luna.'' a telepathic voice echoed in her mind. ''we're closing in on the target.''
''Target?'' Luna thought to herself. And more importantly, who's contacting her?
''Princess,'' a small, meek voice called. ''Are you there?''
''Fluttershy?'' Luna asked. ''If that's you, then that means...put Redgar back through.''
Yes, princess?
''Princess Luna?'' Twilight shook her mentor to get her attention to no avail.
''What target are you referring to?''
''The one in your letter: S,''
Letter? What letter? Her curiosity peaking, Luna held one question to mind.
''Did the signature posses anything out of the ordinary?''
''Hmm.'' Redgar pondered her question. ''A few of the words were slanted,''
That brought a shudder to the Lunar Princess's mind.
''Redgar, I sent no such thing: you must be the victim of a set-up, and I would suggest you retreat A.S.A.P.'
''Huh, what do you...get back!''
''Redgar!? Redgar?''
''Luna, are you okay?'' Spike waved a claw in front of her face.
''...Guards!'' Luna barked, the doors opening at blinding speed to reveal Blank and Charcoal, steeled with determination.
''Ma'am!''
''We must hasten: L.E.A.F is in trouble,''
''Leaf?'' Twilight repeated.
''Lunar Emprize Attack Force, my own private enforcement group for when the normal guards cannot perform.''
''Where are we headed ma'am?''
''The Crystal caverns, apparently some ''S'' is responsible for luring my team into a false sense of security.''
Hopping off her bed, Luna trotted to the door, a serious look present.
''Princess, wait. Let us come with you,'' Twilight urged. ''We can help.''
''No, Twilight Sparkle: I will not permit you or your companions to aid in my issue,''
Poof!
''We're going, princess: besides, what the buck could we do here? Sit around and play Patty cake? Now, Spike, Sunset: we are accompanying Luna to the caverns and no matter what she may say, we have no obligation to listen to anything she says,''
Withholding a grit of her teeth, Luna sighed.
''I suppose it would be foolish to try and deter you when you set your mind to something...very well, let us be off then.''
The king of werewolfs certainly was known for a lot of things: brave, a strategic thinker, charming, even quoted as being a living shadow that acts to protect those he cares about, but this adversary certainly is giving him a run for his money.
''Get down!'' Redgar shielded Fluttershy from the onslaught of magical attacks. Steadying the cross-hairs of his pistol, a casing whizzed to its intended target before being reduced to dust by the barrier of mist.
''Shit,'' Regdar cursed, exchanging cartridges. ''can barely put a dent in this guy,'' Laying down more cover fire, the king barely registered the massive chunk of crystal heading for him. Clenching his teeth, he looked back at his reflection in the stones before a pulse of condensed air forced the mass down to the ground, out of their path.
''Focus!'' Kouri steadied himself, sending a row of hardened ice speeding to the attacker which pinned the specter to the nearest wall. Retreating to a nearby clearing, the group had a moment to calm themselves.
''Ok, so that obviously was not a welcome fitted for a god,'' Kouri deadpanned.
''Oh please,'' Nightmare Rarity sighed. ''you know we do not require your bragging.''
''Fluttershy, are you okay?'' Redgar asked for clarification.
''Y-yea, i'm fine: just a little scrape.''
Breathing a sigh of relief, that news somewhat glazed over what currently is occurring. Peering over the corner, a slew of green mist hit the king's nose, causing him to instantly dry heave. Thinking on the fly, he brought up a clever, but doable idea.
''Nightmare, Magic Missile: Fluttershy, cover her with Swarm.''
Nodding, the pair dashed forward, fire in their eyes towards the living spirit with a menacing glare. Dark was the prominent color following the design the ominous cloak producing a fading green mist that only accented the monstrous look in his eyes. Gripping the odd, yet fear-inducing weapon that resembled a scythe with a twisted look.
Raising a metal hand to the air, a verdant ball of light spawned, seeming to be growing in size before it rocketed forward, aimed at the pair.
''Watch out!'' Rarity conjured a violet shield to combat the blast, only for it to harmlessly phase into them.
''Huh?'' the pair questioned, looking over to check for any obstructions only to find none.
''Let's go, Rarity: we have to push forward!'' Fluttershy showed her fangs. Following that example, Rarity charged in tandem, bringing a green glow to her horn as it formed a row of thin six-pronged stars, spinning in varying directions, a sphere of small magic bounced around before scattering in the shape of a speeding train before violently clashing with the target, a hailstorm of magic beams striking after the implosion.
''My turn!'' Fluttershy bellowed, her eyes glowing pink and speed increasing. Opening her mouth, a swarm of Vampire Fruit Bats flew out, lining in a circle, producing a wall of sound, misshaping the assailant's figure. When the dust cleared, the figure remained unharmed. Nothing. No scratches, it just kept floating there, taunting with an emotionless look of satisfaction. Chalking this up to how he envisioned, Redgar had one more card up his sleeve.
''Good job girls, now it's our turn!'' Regar snickered. ''...Kouri. ''
''Roger.'' the dragon titan took flight above the protector, hefting him up with minimal effort. Holstering his guns, Redgar brought a golden glow to his claws, wild energy pulsed in every which direction, forming a barrier against his paws. Getting swung back and forth, Redgar soared with precision, unleashing one of his more effective, yet standard powered moves.
''Blinding Light!'' the werewolf latched his paws around the figure's neck, a powerful screeching alerting him to the first part of his plan. Chomping down on what he assumed to be the neck, the golden light leaked from his teeth into the puncture wounds, causing a chill to spread down the spectre's body, effectively slowing its movements down to a standstill. Hopping back, the sound of magic, wings, and ice being formed told the king all that was needed.
''Nice try, ugly,'' Kouri mocked, readying a beam of sub-zero power. ''we always get called in for the tough jobs...and win.''
''Don't get too cocky, Kouri.''' Fluttershy warned. ''that same confidence is what almost got us kicked out of Jaypan when you insulted Oda, remember?''
''Oh, come on: the old geezer bragged too much, plus I was bored.''
Paying those two no mind, Rarity and Redgar stood by to attack.
''Aaaaaaaahhhhhh!...Raaaaaaahhhhhhh!'' the monster screeched in desperation, somehow managing to free itself of the paralysis, sending wave after countless wave of dark matter with every swing of its blade.
''Fire!'' a stream of blue, gold, violet and black beams collided with the foreign entity, sparking a brilliant light show of grace and danger.
A massive dust cloud surrounding the entire area lingered in the air for the longest time, putting a hold on time itself. The mist finally clearing itself revealed to show...that still nothing happened.
''What?!'' Rarity yelled. ''how did that not work?''
Groaning, the situation began to look dimmer than how it began. Clutching his pride, a defining choice had to be made: one Redgar despised making, but due to his intuition telling him otherwise, he resigned.
''Team, we need to...
BLAM!
Silence rung throughout the caverns, the stale air being so thick you could slice it with a needle. Looking towards where the sound resonated, and where the spectre's body floated, Redgar smiled the largest smile he could.
''Princess Luna...am I glad to see you.''
***
Meanwhile, back in Canterlot Castle, a lone unicorn stallion ran throughout the halls, being chased by maids and Night Guards alike.
''I didn't do anything wrong!''
Author's Note
Apologies for the long hiatus: computer issues, time, and other things apparently not under my control. But anyways, hope you enjoyed the chapter.
Author's Note
I will tend to mention philosophical principles for a parts in the story, which belong to their intended creators.
The Meeting
To say that Twilight Sparkle was confused was a massive understatement. Throughout all of her life, she has experienced many things, making her a very studious mare, certainly well above the average level intelligence for most ponies. But her brain was currently experiencing what Spike often referred as a brainfart. Her mind had to be playing a trick on her, there was no way this was real. No, wait. Twilight did have a way to explain this: with science. All she required was to go on with topic of what she is seeing, devolve a hypothesis of what may happen, gather data, draw charts and run the experiment at least 3 times to confirm a pattern. Or that would have been the course of action if not for her previous breakdown. How could two of her friends, whom she loved dearly be standing in the same room as her, Spike and Sunset when they're were pronounced dead? Perhaps she could apply some philosophy to this: in the golden age of Equestria's birth, there was a philosopher named Willy of Occam who theorized:
"If you have two theories that both explain the observed facts, then you should use the simplest until more evidence comes along."
then it would make sense to assume what Twilight believed what happened to her friends was merely a farce as opposed to a lengthy explanation.
''This really can't be true...could it ?'' Twilight pondered to herself. ''B-But I saw what happened...they should not be here! My mind must be playing jokes on me but would not looking into this make me a hypocrite? ''
It keeps playing back and forth in her mind like a silent film: over and over again, with no apparent end in sight. But how would-
''Twilight, you okay?'' Spike roused her of her thoughts. ''Didn't you hear what Princess Luna said?''
''Huh?''
A long sigh of annoyance diverted the unicorn's attention to look to her right.
''I had a feeling this may happen which is why I planned for just a occasion,'' Luna muttered, walking over to her student and striking her across the face with the force of a freight train, the shockwave impaling a massive dent in the crystals and shattering them like toothpicks. All the more while, gasps of shock rang from Redgar, Kouri, Fluttershy and Rarity as Spike, Cadence and Sunset facehoofed.
''Yeeeooooooooowwwwwwch!'' Twilight shrieked, her left cheek turning as red as the sun itself, a low throbbing making her pain sensors go off the charts. ''Why in the hell would you do that ?!'' Twilight's tone resembled the Royal Canterlot Voice, booming with authority and pain.
''Why wouldn't I?'' Luna chuckled. ''Slapping you like a rag doll brings a smile to my face, so at least one of us is getting a kick out of this.''
''Don't do that again ,'' Twilight growled.
''Whatever.'' Luna shrugged.
Withholding a well-deserved scream, Twilight diverted her attention to the new faces in the cavern, two of which she almost teared up at seeing.
''Twilight Sparkle, Spike, Sunset Shimmer: I would like you all to meet my private investigation and enforcement unit, L.E.A.F. While we all here know about dear Fluttershy and Rarity, I would like you two to greet 3 of my most promising students,'' she pointed to the miniature Dragon and Werewolf.
''Yes, Princess.''
''I am Redgar, King of all Were-species, Commander of this little band of misfits,'' he shook Twilight's hoof.
''Nice to meet you, pretty sure I may have heard something about you in a few of my books. Is it really true you were born a hybrid?''
''Aye. I see somepony does their homework.''
''Greetings...puny mortals. I am Kouri! One of the 12 Exceed gods, 4th ranked of all Dragons, 1st class Thaumaturgy master and nicknamed the Sub-Zero Dragon.'' Kouri bellowed, the caverns vibrating at his voice. ''You are worthy enough to be in my presence...you may bow.'' he flashed the mother of all crap-eating smiles.
''Um...hi?'' Sunset greeted.
''Anyhoo, I know you all must be having a million questions running through your mind at this point, so rest assured they will be answered. But first, I must ask: what was the letter you received, Redgar?''
''Ah, yes. Here you are Princess,'' he handed her a brown parchment as she read over it, her eyes slightly narrowing.
''Hmmm...this kind of signature is one I have not encountered in a long time, but the real question would be how did you get this?''
''Ma'am, we were on way past The Satorian Ridge when Messenger QuickSpeed delivered the letter to us.''
''...Quickspeed, huh?'' Luna pondered. ''Did you notice anything off about him?''
''Nothing that not even my heightened sense could not pick up, he was as normal as he's been.''
That brought a hum of worry to the Lunar princess's mind.
''We best not waste our time sitting here: come along, all: we can discuss this back at the castle,''
Deep, in the Everfree Forest
Zecora hummed another one of her tribe's traditional brewing songs as she went to work in her cauldron. It was one of the many Zebranican beliefs that speaking words of power over your brew would instill with magical powers, or even be blessed by Mother Moon herself. This particular brew is more so a favor to a long friend that the shaman held no issue with doing this: it was nothing but a simple truth serum.
''Let me take a look, it would appear I followed the instructions straight from the book.''
Dropping in a pinch of salt, the mixture bubbled and turned a pale yellow color, trails of steam billowing and exiting out through the windows of her little hovel. Going over and prepping a flask for bottling, a feeling of bliss washed over the zebra as she poured the capped the flask, causing her to sigh in content. Normally, Zecora would love to have another companion to converse with to lift this small feeling of loneliness. But, it was only herself for the few days for the safety of others as nopony would disturb her brewing. Little known fact, more so a funny accident is a poor Pegasus mare needed help with her back problems and accidentally ruined the brew, instead causing a major discoloration and voice change that lasted about a month or so. Ever since them, a sign has put a few feet before her home, stating: Brewing, DO NOT GO PAST THIS POINT.
Since then, things around the Everfree have been calmer, aside from murderous Timberwolves, psychotic Cockatrices, and a talking leviathan, things have been quiet, only a few times have certain nuisance arose, making her ability to perceive danger to a whole different level. Halting her movement, a sound, almost imperceptible to most ears thrummed into the ground, worming its way to the zebra's waiting ears. The sound...stopped her heart for a millisecond.
''Wha-"
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!
The smell of sulfur and fall of charred leaves perforated the ground, a massive mushroom cloud filling the otherwise calm and collected skies.
''Hehehehehe...'' a voice filled with glee chuckled. ''How the weak have managed to stay...well, weak. And here I thought you were worth the trouble, but I guess not,'' it showed no emotion whatsoever so.
''U-Uh...'' Zecora groaned, millions of nerves flaring up in pain, even to the point where blinking her eyes felt like a sword through her head. ''W-Why?~''
''Why, you ask?'' the voice sounded upset. ''I'm bored and just blowing off time, as well so steam...by the way, the look of pain on your face looks so delectable, I can't stand it! Let me welcome you to a whole another feeling to the words: pain and pleasure.~''
''N-No...don't. P~LEASE!~''
''Yes, yes! This is just what I wanted: fear! Come, come l-et me...''
''H-Huh?''
''LET ME INDULGE AND DEVOUR THAT BODY OF YOURS~!!! RAAAAAAAAHHHHH~!!!''
Author's Note
Thanks for reading. This chapter will be the start of how. . .most things in the story took a wrong turn.
Remembrance
Writing is an exploration. You start from nothing and learn as you go.
E.L. Doctorow.
''So. . .you. . .still stand, e-even after my s-song.~'' a pained voice laid their eyes upon a most teeth-grinding, unrealistic, shocking sight. ''B-But I get props for t-trying.~'' the blackened skies cried out in hunger, the desire being sated with booms of thunder and zaps of lightning. The very ground shook with trepidation, preparing to break apart at the very seams in a second. The world around the pair was once highly regarded as a safe haven, where all can express their individuality freely and without question, but the greed of others plummeted hopes.
''Yes ,'' a low voice responded, emitting a guttural snarl that told of discomfort. ''Your toys were no match our soliders. The light in their hearts repelled your evil intentions with haste.''
''SILENCE!'' the figure rushed forward, blinded by rage. ''I will see to it everyone on this forsaken world bows to my will alone!''
Vzzzzt! Clang! Clang! Clang! Schklikt! Bang!
''Damn you, you whore! You dare pull these second-rate tricks on me?!''
''Never bring swords to a gun fight; yet you still slipped up.''
''Why, you-''
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Thump!
''A-A-A-ah, t-this will. . .guh,'' the figure collapsed to the floor, bloody and broken. Walking over, the figure set their sights on the fell body beneath them. Cocking their rifle, a fresh bullet was loaded into the barrel and poised to shoot. Using their magic, the downed figure's body was positioned so their face looked to the skies. Manipulating their magic, the sound of the outside began to whine down into nothingness.
''So, t-this is how you wanted to do things, eh? With you making me get on my knees and beg?! Is that what you want, because I would rather die taking my last breath for the chance to plunge my sword down your throat then to kiss your flank!''
''No. Because, not even Death herself would accommodate you a place at her table, for that would taking the easy way out and we both know it. So, in keeping in with the times, I figured to pay you back in kind for what happened back in Manehattan.''
''He. . .hehehehehe. . .you're still on that? You know, not even I can bring back the dead.''
''TELL THAT TO STEADY BEAT!'' silence took back over. ''She made me promise I would do what was necessary to not stoop to your level!''
''Hypocritical. And the award goes to. . .-''
''Which is why I will end this here and now!''
''Finally,'' the downed figure smirked.
''But remember. . .I will always hold you in my heart as you at once have,'' a lone tear found a way to the ground. ''My best friend. . .''
''I doubt that.''
A shred of doubt was not not present in Twilight Sparkle's mind. It was to be expected that nopony, specifically her should ever throw random assumptions of out thin air with no play to back it up. In a time of contemplation, you were expected to do the opposite as to not fall into the social repetitive norm. But this was a different kind of doubt. One that most would only think of at the last possible second.
It was simple, really.
But, it did always seem like, no matter what she did, it always seemed to posses a nature of grave importance with it. 'If she didn't get this' or 'fight this crime lord', then Equestria would be in peril. Again. Frankly, the idea of being a brave and victorious figure that saves lives was nice for the first few years, but then. . .it died down as the threats grew even more. It drove her nearly crazy if not for Sunset and Spike to help bring her back to reality. Something had to give.
She finally found the time to relax after a month of non-stop, back to back fighting and relief efforts to help give the Pegasi assistance after the fall of Cloudsdale. Though the rebuilding took years, what the trio endured was not by any means easy. The crap they endured for sake of money, books, and information sure could be put to its limits.
Now, as she and her companions relaxed in the soothing bath waters of the Canterlot Bath House, a hum of contentment left her mouth. She needed a break, and for pony's sake, she's getting one. Sparkling warm water cascaded from a marble statue of Princess Luna's most sacred pet, a large Great Horned Owl named Ben. A majestic raptor, with a dark blue plumage with marvelous grey feathers and piercing yellow eyes.
''Ah, this is relaxing, isn't it?'' Spike asked.
''Yea, it kinda of is.''
Or at least it would have been if not the hunger for answers began to peck at Twilight's mind.
''Why?'' Twilight asked herself, her eyes closed and body slowing swaying back and forth in the bath waters. ''I was certain that I accounted for every variable. . .what could I have missed?''
''Twilight. . .'' a voice faintly called. She immediately ignored it.
''Nothing could have survived ground zero, definitely at that range,'' Twilight felt warmth in her nostrils.
''Twilight. . .'' the voice called again, only a tad worried.
Twilight racked her brain from Canterlot to Dodge Junction, trying to formulate a type of viable answer to why the only thing that has only caused her only suffer the worst type of pain managed to resurface without a ounce of knowing why. In itself, it would only serve to make what she knows now to be-
''Sparkle-Buttt!'' a voice yelled, causing her to open her eyes, which she dipped beneath the water, struggling before Spike picked her out of the bath, cursing herself for not focusing. Water invaded her lungs as she coughed violently.
"What was that for?" Twilight sputtered, wiping her eyes and thumping a hoof against her chest.
"Because you spaced out, once again," Luna commented with a snarky tone. "You ok?"
Twilight groaned, water dripping off her mane into the water. She rotated her neck and spoke in a low tone. "Not really. I mean. . .I really just want to be done with all this, but everytime I try, something else pops up and the cycle starts again. Spike and Sunset, I can't speak for you, but I just get so tired. . ." her breath hitched, her lips trembling. "Just so tired.~"
Luna silently agreed. She completely understood who was going through her head, but it wouldn't do much if she tried to lend a hoof where it wasn't wanted. Luna's experience always trumped Twilight's technique, but she always wondered who truly was the more strong; her or her student.
"Don't say that, Sparkle-Butt. It's a phase; just because it happens more than once won't mean that It's gonna be forever. You know that it could be a whole lot worse," Luna swam over, laying a hoof on her shoulder. "You know what I would say?"
"What?" Sunset asked, using her wings to sway the water back and forth.
"No idea, but I am sure that it would be cliche. Just tell me your troubles," Luna spoke calmly.
"Well. . .I guess I'm just so sick of the in-fighting. I mean, in one year, we've made a bigger quota in mission results than we normally should. We get the answers and things that we want, but it never seems to end-" Twilight swirled her hoof in the water, the rippling spreading outwards. "-How far can this go?"
"Yea," Sunset agreed, using her magic to poof up a report of the last month. "25 sucessful raids, 12 interrogations and 30 arrests. That's triple the normal amount, and there's only three of us. Something needs to give."
"Mmm-hmm," Spike agreed, looking over the report as well. ''I never thought things would be this bad.''
''Well, I probably know that feeling more than anybody else," Luna muttered, blowing bubbles in the water. "I can vouch a few hundred years of being alone, doing the job of two, and trying to stay out of the light of the people. It. . .gets hard; especially with tomorrow," Luna steeled her face for a moment, though she relented until the gaze of Twilight.
"What's that?" Spike asked.
"The anniversary of when I had to cast out my own sister."
Twilight frowned. ''Princess, you don't have to-''
''No,'' Luna said, holding a hoof in the air. ''You've all been here since the beginning, but I never told you why exactly you're doing this.''
''Because Celestia was out of line?'' Sunset asked.
''Partly. But the real reason was that she was cursed. And not your run-of-the-mill curse that can be fixed in a few days,'' Luna began to remember. "My sister and me were often matched in most ways, as you can imagine, we often bickered in where the other floundered.''
''But I thought you and your sister were near the same in almost all areas,'' Spike wondered, ladling some water on his back.
''Celestia was always a fool,'' Luna said with spite in her voice. ''She just did a better job at masking it then I did. Years and years passed by, dealing with her attitude at the world and what it was that she couldn't get. And then the scales leaned to one side when we had our fight. Words were thrown, insults made, the dead desecrated and made fun of, the Elements Of Harmony even being broken, even going so far as her almost driving a knife through my chest in blind rage.''
Twilight froze, thinking. ''I thought that Celestia was the one who you attacked.''
''Only in self-defense, Sparkle-Butt. I tried talking to her, but knowing as stubborn as she can be, then it basically was beating a dead tree,'' Luna sighed, splashing the water with a hoof, the droplets getting in her eyes. ''To this day, I still blame her for the ultimate act of disrespect.''
''And that was?'' Spike asked.
''Desecration.'' Luna said, the room going silent. ''I made a vow to myself that if there ever was a way to talk to her again in a clearer mind, that I would ask her why,'' Luna growled. ''But, due to the ravages of time, more and more, things between the two of us will deteriorate. . .''
Sunset Shimmer frowned, trying to find the right words to say. After a few moments, she steeled herself and spoke. ''Princess, I can't begin to imagine what it is you're going through, but I can understand to some degree the feeling of closure, as well as holding blame for some ponies, but is there anything that we can do to help?''
''Yes, there is,'' Luna said, teleporting out of the bath all dry, mane and tail styled back in her style. ''You three, along with L.E.A.F. You can help. In a time where even I am uncertain of what the next day brings, what you can is simple.''
''What is it, Princess?'' Twilight asked.
''Keep fighting the good fight. Survive.''
''Against what?'' Spike got up, narrowing his eyes. ''It sounds like she's behind all of these that have happening recently.''
''She very well may be, but I wouldn't know how when I personally had sealed her magic,'' Luna held her head up, sneering a bit at Spike and what he said. ''But, then again; anything is possible.''
Infiltration
Vanguard.
Location, Satorian MT. Ridge, AKA: The Gallows, 1:00...A.M.
The high peaks of the Gallows often brought a majestic sensation of a winter paradise, and by no means is that a bad thought. Quite the opposite, in fact. For the troops stationed there, it felt like a refugee from the harsh reality around them. Thickets of heavy snow blanketed the natural formation, casting a treaded pattern that led up and down the base.
Past the ring of arctic clouds sat a base camp at the very forefront, a group of 4 figures staring out to the slow rising sun. After a moment a silence, a deep voice spoke over the roaring winds.
''So how long do you reckon we got?''
''About 3 hours if we hustle, but-'' a young, but timid voice replied. ''don't you think we should think this over at least?''
''What the hell is there to think over? We go in, make big boom, then we get paid...hopefully get that tip for early expectations.'' a mischievous bout of laughter followed.
''Must thou act so rash? We thinketh your plan reeks of a decaying swine.'' a rather posh voice complained. ''However, if one is to be honest, we would peg thou intentions to be flat,''
Peering over the landscape ahead, a brilliant light shone on the snow, illuminating the snowflakes past the ongoing plain.
''Intel says what?''
''Ah yes. Our intelligence tells us that our target has been accused of multiple crimes in order of: Sexual trafficking, murder in the 1st degree, abuse ranging from substance, animal and physical, perfidy, smuggling, falsifying, rape, reckless endangerment, going AWOL, and to top it all off: attempted suicide,''
''Whoo! And you said we don't do anything fun, am I right?''
A pained groan of annoyance echoed throughout, drawing out a silence before a snide remark triggered a chain reaction.
''And yet it baffles me how you, Kouri, one of the 12 Exceed Gods possess the least amount of maturity and yet is 4th ranked of all dragons and 1st class Thaumaturgy master,''
''What, there has to be some life in this swanky little group and you should feel honored to work with a God as normally we distance ourselves from helping our own kind and you mortals, so I recommend that you shut up a little,''
Under normal circumstances, the deities of this broken world gave up hope long ago, except for three who stayed. The legendary Ice dragon, Kouri, The Formidable Opposer and the Dragon Punisher, Shirai, each who rested at a certain place to aid and deliver absolute judgement to what was left of this lost world. Brushing some frost on top of his comrades, a look of boredom showed on his face.
''C-Come on guys, why are you arguing? We have a job to do,'' a timid voice piped up. ''you don't want me to have to do the stare , now would you?''
''No!''
''Are you sure Rarity, I really don't want to have to do this.''
''No, no darling, I assure you...I am fine,'' Rarity folded her ears in caution.
''Will you guys focus? Rarity, would you please finish our intel?''
''Oh, right. The last piece of information states how we should take caution in apprehension as he has been known to pull sly tactics,''
''Name?''
''All the paper says is S and that he's last been known to reside in the crystal caverns beneath...Canterlot.''
''W-Wait, how can he be in Canterlot? Wouldn't Princess Luna have found him instead of hiring us to do it?'' Fluttershy questioned.
''Maybe she has a lot to deal with and hasn't the time,'' Korui reasoned. ''but why she would pay us 500,000 bits for one little degenerate is beyond me, but what do you think Redgar?''
''Hmmm.'' the werewolf king pondered. ''If Fluttershy and Rarity have known her for as long as they have, I see no reason why she would do this without a valid reason, but what are your inputs?'' he looked over, the size of his stature making that he has to slowly crane his head to not cause a bout of light-headness.
''Well, I have no real reason to judge her decisions.'' Fluttershy shrugged. ''of all the jobs we did as her personal enforcement, she's never once led us astray, especially since it happened.''
''I must concur with Fluttershy.'' Rarity agreed. ''Princess Luna is a trustworthy adversity to have in our corner, but why else would she pay her elite this amount for one capture means it could be a major issue if not rectified,''
''And what of you Korui?''
''I feel the same, this...does not seem like a case we can sweep underneath the rug.''
''All I needed to hear. Team, prepare to head for Canterlot! Her majesty has requested our aid and our aid we shall give her!''
But a lingering presence in each of their hearts told them otherwise.
Redgar, chief among all were-species have always hailed for many things, such as being known as the alpha and fiercest of all, a brilliant tactician, natural survivor and quoted for being 'The Wise Wolf.' as his most notable accomplishment was leading his people to victory against the Centaurs in the inter-species war. Genetically bred from a great descendant of the famed mage, Starswirl The Bearded and a female werewolf bore him with a few of Starswirl's key spells: matter manipulation, healing, teleportation and most noted: shape-shifting to a degree.
Rarity and Fluttershy's stories are not that apart either. Ever since Tirek was brought down by the Elements of harmony and Equestria's longstanding peace restored, all seemed to be right until that fateful day occurred, peace was anything but. Each of the girls went their separate ways, whispers of lies drove a massive wedge that seems to be unable to fix. With the events of Fluttershy being turned into Flutterbat by Twilight, she took this as a way to improve her self-confidence as to certain degrees she is able to revert back to her pegasus form.
As for Rarity, she experienced the same as her friend in being tricked away from their strong friendship. Instead, now she spends most of her days with being a part-time designer and also involved with Princess Luna's personal police for enforcing law. As with Fluttershy, a grave procedure took place one day while exploring the dream realm: Nightmare Rarity was brought out. Now at first, the initial transformation scared the life out of her, but in time she grew to accept and adjust thanks to the help of Princess Luna.
Going to such extremes would not be frowned upon for this group: they do things like this all the time. Extending his paws forward, a brilliant red light enveloped Redgar before dying to a hum.
''Korui, you know what to do.''
''Right.'' the titan extended his wings, sifting a mountain of frost on his comrades in the process.
''Next stop, Canterlot!''
***
Meanwhile, elsewhere deep in the Everfree forest sat a ancient castle on the verge of collapsing. Down a broken archway, a flight of stairs led to a long stone hallway with a gated door at the end. The heavy clunk of steps against the ground brought out a sense of anger as the gate was blasted to smithereens. Looking beyond, a stone book with spikes was enveloped by a teal magical field.
In a matter of seconds, it was brought to a brown satchel.
''Too easy and here I thought-
''Stop, fiend!'' a voice echoed throughout the halls, a teleportation spell activated, transporting the intruder to a damp and dark lake. Looking around, a figure bore down on the intruder with multiple intent.
''Well, I just had to open my big mouth, now didn't I? I only hope you put up more of a fight than Discord, so I implore you to do your best.''
Author's Note
Sorry for the short chapters just feel I can make it up for you with more chapters instead, but If you guys want longer ones let me know.
