Resurgence

Chapters

Ire
Retribution
Subterfuge
Desolation
Our Mission
Loyalty
Generous Magic
Honest Laughter
A Reborn Star
Dark Storm's End; Redemption

Ire

A gentle wind swept across the barren field of snow. Brilliant light from the moon and stars reflected off the snow capped mountains in the distant horizon. The once silent moment broke with the sound of misshapen entities that trudged through the deep snow. Wisps of frozen breath escaped their open mouths, their pearl white fangs glinting in the reflected light off the snow beneath them.

The creatures sat down as they entered a snow covered forest. One looked up and tugged on a tree limb. Though its magic waned, the misshapen entity broke off a piece of wood, and then another. Several limbs were tossed into the middle of a small pit dug into the frozen ground, and a beam of green condensed magic shot towards the pile of kindling.

Shadows danced around the trees while the creatures shivered near the fire, holding out their ebony colored hooves towards it. Teeth chattered. They shivered. Wind swept through the trees. Several bits of snow fell to the ground and turned to steam before hitting fire.

Three sets of ears perked up. The changelings' eyes darted about, and then focused.

A small dot appeared in the distance. It pulsed in a red light. The three changelings grinned at each other before they crept closer and closer towards the dot. Several clicks and hisses escaped their open mouths while the red light from the object reflected off their fangs.

With the object levitated by the three, they charged towards their comrades. A resounding set of clicks, almost the sound of maniacal laughter, echoed throughout the forest. The group stopped at the edge of the forest. They turned to one another, and then the leader of the group. The changelings lowered their heads to the oncoming blizzard.

Several more pieces of fresh kindling were broken from the trees near them, placed onto the fire.

*** *** ***

"Where are they?!" A voice snarled, it's harsh tone reverberating throughout the dark palace. Light from bioluminescent sconces reflected off the resin coated walls. An army of misshapen creatures bowed to a dark throne. A silhouette rose up. The tall dark shadow stood above the army in the chamber with its eyes glowing in a fierce green light, "I sent those little idiots out a day ago. Can those brainless whelps not accomplish one task!"

Queen Chrysalis stood over her army of changeling warriors. Her eyes continued to glow in a ferocious green light. The glow faded, and her temperament settled. She looked behind her throne and watched the sun set in the horizon, a quick "make that two days ago" escaping her clenched teeth.

The queen sat on her throne and glared at her army. Her eyes skimmed over each changeling soldier present.

"You," she pointed at a changeling who soon pointed at himself, "yes. You will find those idiots and tell them --"

The doors to the dark palace flung opened. Three frozen changelings slid inside with another three coming behind. The unfrozen changelings bowed to their ruler, a frosty breath escaping their chattering teeth. One moved forward, the misshapen creature panting in a heavy breath.
Queen Chrysalis stood up. Her eyes widened. She darted toward the changeling, shoving the frozen minions aside.

"This. Is. It." she said. Her voice went silent. Red light reflected off her green eyes. Queen Chrysalis levitated the object in front of her. "Now, if I can get the second piece."

The doors flung open a second time. Seven injured changelings crept inside, and then collapsed. A strange box fell to the floor, once held in a soldier's magical grasp. The box slide away from the group.

"...," the changeling ruler cackled in a soft voice before she faced her army, "what exists before us is the tool of our retribution." Queen Chrysalis said to the sound of cheers in the form of hisses and clicks. She trotted back to her throne with a happy stride. The two objects shook in her magical grasp. She licked her fangs. A sinister smile crept across her face. Queen Chrysalis opened the box, removed the object, and tossed the ornate wooden container to the side. "Even I have heard of your legendary power, Alicorn Amulet. If I were a unicorn, I would wield you without remorse, yet there is one who is better suited to your power. Isn't that right," Queen Chrysalis looked at the other object in her magical grasp, "King Sombra. You will be my instrument, my sword to wield against those 'ponies' who call Equestria home."

Time slowed. The Alicorn Amulet levitated near the horn of King Sombra. It's red eye flashed in an ominous light, the gem at the center beginning to glow. Closer-and-closer the amulet neared the horn of the deposed, vanquished king.

Rose colored light flooded the dark palace. Changelings shielded their eyes. Queen Chrysalis gazed on to see the horn turn into a darkened mass. Four hooves protruded from it, and then a head. A slit grew near the mouth with a set of teeth forming. The body collapsed to the floor, and the changeling army lowered their misshapen hooves. Queen Chrysalis crept towards the unicorn that lay before her.

"..."

"What?" Queen Chrysalis said. She leapt out of the way. "Do you realize how long it took my drones to make that throne!"

"I don't care." King Sombra said in a guttural tone. He latched onto the queen of the changelings with his magic. His wicked grin reflected off Queen Chrysalis's eyes, the changeling ruler tugging at the coalesced collar of ethereal magic around her neck. "I. Owe. You. Nothing!"

Queen Chrysalis dropped to the floor. She gasped for air. The army surrounded her.

Beneath King Sombra, dark tendrils rocketed forth from his shadow. The black, ethereal vines strangled the changelings. One-by-one the soldiers flew away from their ruler and hit the walls. King Sombra's eyes widened. He collapsed to the ground and clutched his chest. The unicorn glared at Queen Chrysalis who towered above him.

"I will not have a loose cannon roaming my kingdom. I brought you back, and I can easily dispatch you." Queen Chrysalis said.

"Prove it." King Sombra said.

Queen Chrysalis sneered at the unicorn, "Calling my bluff? That's the wrong answer. I've fed for three days solid to await your return. There's more than enough power within me to deal with you."

"I can feel it. I can feel the power you put into me. It rivals your own, insignificant spec of abilities." King Sombra said, wheezing.

The changeling army crept closer. Queen Chrysalis raised her hoof. The army stood at attention.

"What do you desire, anomaly?" King Sombra said.

"Such cruelty to one who can provide you with love and affection." Queen Chrysalis said, shifting into the shape of a beautiful tall mare. She leapt away and shifted back into her regular form, "You're quite the wise unicorn."

"My body may have been destroyed, but not my mind. State your desire you half-pony freak." He said.

Queen Chrysalis stood firm. She glared at the unicorn stallion who lay collapsed beneath her misshapen hooves. "What I desire is revenge. The ruination of Equestria. They will witness despair, and those ponies will know what it means to see loss as I feed off their love until they are nothing more than husks, shells of their former selves."

King Sombra nodded. Helped to his hooves by Queen Chrysalis, a red glow enveloped his horn.

"How dare you!" Queen Chrysalis said.

"I trust no pony. You're just angry you didn't think of it first." King Sombra said. He winced, shook his head, and then turned towards the changelings in front of him. "Your queen is now mine. Do as I say or she will be reduced to ash."

Several hisses and clicks echoed in the room. Rows of changelings got on their knees, however, two rows remained defiant.

A small platoon of changelings flew towards Queen Chrysalis. The platoon of sixteen changelings stood their ground, but soon cowered. They turned to each other. They illuminated their horns, firing off blasts of magical energy. A dark, fluid, liquid shadow reflected off their eyes with King Sombra flashing a wicked grin towards them.

"I do not tolerate insubordination." King Sombra said as he coalesced back into his original form. Sixteen, changeling shaped statues surrounded Queen Chrysalis. A red glow enveloped the unicorn's horn. He shook his head and placed the stone statue back onto the ground. "On this day of my resurgence, mercy shall be shown. Hear my words and heed them well. Failure. Disobedience. Subterfuge. None of these will be tolerated. Understood?!"

Misshapen hooves rose into the air with cheering hisses and clicks following. Queen Chrysalis's eyes widened at the sight of the changelings that shifted into the shape of pegasi, unicorn, and earth ponies. Her mouth dropped open, and she collapsed to the ground.

"What have I done?" Queen Chrysalis said in a whispered voice. She clutched the collar around her neck, "What... what is... happening?"

King Sombra marched towards the changeling queen. He peered down at the creature near his hooves. "As stated, disobedience, including disobedient thoughts, will be met with swift punishment. Now, take me to 'my' chambers."

Queen Chrysalis stood up. Her white fangs glistened in the bioluminescent light as she bit down on her lower lip before she looked at the unicorn in front of her. In a cold, emotionless tone she said, "As... you wish."

*** *** ***

The unicorn stallion walked along the resin coated hallway with Bioluminescent orbs hanging from the ceiling, illuminating his pathway. His eyes remained glued towards the path in front of him. Changeling soldiers flew by, saluting their new ruler. The king sneered at them, causing the soldiers to lower their heads and shiver.

At King Sombra's side crept the deposed ruler of the changelings. She glanced at her fellow changelings ever so often, and hung her head. Queen Chrysalis winced for the third time as the collar around her neck tightened. The deposed changeling ruler guided the unicorn stallion towards her former chambers.

"Trash," King Sombra muttered under a heavy breath when the doors opened. He winced. He rubbed his forehead. Under a quiet breath he said, "Ridiculous Amulet. I rule you, not the other way."

Queen Chrysalis pulled down the covers of the bed. She sighed. Her wings twitched at her side before she drew a bath. A disturbing clock ticked on in the corner with crooked hands moving forward. The clock turned to ash after a red beam of light shot towards it.

King Sombra glanced at the clock's remains before he motioned towards Queen Chrysalis, watching her leave the chambers. He examined at his surroundings. His eyes locked onto a torn painting. Three sets of hooves reflected off King Sombra's eyes as he gazed intently at the painting. The piece disintegrated before him.

The unicorn stallion furrowed his brow, his horn aglow in a reddish light. He gave a sinister grin to the empty room in front of him. A small ethereal fragment floated in the air in front of him. With the spiked orb of magic reflecting off his eyes, King Sombra said, "Go. Sow the seeds of what I desire."

The magical creation vanished.

"Chrysalis!" King Sombra said in a bellowing tone.

"Yes?" Queen Chrysalis said.

King Sombra got out of the tub and materialized a towel around himself. "I think it's time the Crystal Kingdom -- no. I know it is time that EQUESTRIA learned of its rightful ruler's return."

The deposed changeling ruler's wings quivered as she gazed on. A dark shadow enveloped the room with two eyes glowing in a fierce green light.

Retribution

Soft thunder echoed from the Sweet Apple Acres Farm as the dark clouds rolled over Ponyville. A gentle drizzle landed on the castle's exterior, the cool drops of water sliding towards its base. Light from two succinct flashes of lightning beamed through the windows and illuminated illuminated the crystal tree castle's interior. As the light reflected off the walls and down the hallway, it reached an ajar door and soon faded to darkness with the door creaking in the slight wind that pushed against it.

Inside, the little ponies sat in front of a large jar. Their eyes examined the various pieces of the strange room before they turned their attention back towards the glass container in front of them. Several small bubbles coalesced inside the jar, eyes following the pockets of gas towards the liquid's surface. The bubbles burst, emitting a short, soft, faint light.

With the minor distraction over, the three fillies wandered the unusual room. One scratched her suave styled mane as she stared at a vial of viscous, purple colored liquid in a test tube rack. Another poked her hoof against a strange metal disc placed on the ground.

"So... what are we doin' again?" a soft voice said.

"Science!" Another voice said in a boisterous tone that reverberated throughout the room. The equine's jovial chuckle turned sinister laugh before she stopped and cleared her throat. She gave a sheepish grin to her guests, "Sorry, Apple Bloom. I'm just so excited."

"That wasn't creepy," Scootaloo said while she rolled her eyes.

" Uhh, Twilight? Are you sure this is safe?" Sweetie Belle said as she continued to gaze at the vial of liquid. "Didn't one of your little 'experiments' dissolve a table at the restaurant?"

Twilight stopped. She patted Sweetie Belle on the head. "What happened at the restaurant can be considered a 'slight' error. Besides," she grumbled, "a certain 'number 1 assistant,' who shall remain nameless, decided to put the vial into my saddlebag as Foal's Day prank."

Another flash of lightning illuminated the room. Several lights blinked on and off in random patterns on a machine in the corner. Several books lined a shelf with a rolling chalkboard stowed away in the corner.

Twilight gazed at the stack of papers on the table near her. She skimmed across several points of interest in the notes before illuminating her horn and floating a blue book floated off the shelf. The book placed on the table, Twilight retrieved another from her private library.

"Ah HA! I knew it! This 'thermodynamics' is tricky, but there is a method to the madness. I'll have to thank him for letting me borrows these books. They've helped out so much. " Twilight said. Lines of text reflected off her eyes in the dim light of the crystal candles on the walls. Her slight smile grew into an ecstatic grin. She placed the book down on the table, "I must say, this stallion, this 'Doctor' is quite brilliant if he can comprehend all this," Twilight sighed, "'stuff.'"

Several more sheets of paper floated off the 100page pile. Each sheet remained frozen in place while Twilight skimmed over their contents, front and back. A final sheet of paper pulled off the stack, a book levitated in front of her, the equine giggled to herself.

"This is it!" Twilight said. A red bound tome floated in the air near her, "Ethereal Symbiotic Properties and Phenomena."

"Huh?" Apple Bloom said.

"It's not a 'complete' book mind you, but it gives me a good idea of what I'm looking at right now. I can't believe I didn't realize all of it before. Though that stone was a meteorite, there is more to it than that as those crystals are quite special, more special than I realized." Twilight said. She pointed at where the stone once resided in her laboratory, and then pointed towards Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, "They've actually 'merged' with your essences, thus becoming part of you. At this point, I can only make vague hypotheses about their true nature."

"Hy-poth-e-seize?" Scootaloo said before looking at Sweetie Belle, receiving a shrug in return. "Uhh, Twilight. What are you talking about exactly?"

"I'm so glad you asked." Twilight said. The chalkboard on wheels rolled into the laboratory. She pointed at the board where several mathematical formulas were scrawled out, along with several images. "From here --"

"Sorry Twilight, but can ya give us the short version." Apple Bloom said. She smiled, "Sorry."

Twilight shook her head and rolled her eyes, letting out an annoyed groan. The chalkboard rolled back into its place. "For a 'short version' as you would like to call it, I theorize all of this has something to do with your cutie marks, yourselves, or the fact you're all bound as 'Cutie Mark Crusaders.' One striking similarity is the fact that you all have images on top of shields, and this ultimately represents who you are at your core as protectors of cutie marks and wanting to assist those who have trouble with understanding their destinies."

Scootaloo shrugged at Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom scratched her mane.

"Ah think she means we absorbed the crystals cause of us being Cutie Mark Crusaders." Apple Bloom said, getting a polite nod from Twilight. She waved to her fellow crusaders and moved towards a small metal disc embedded into the floor. "You want us to stand here?"

Twilight gave a gentle smile towards the filly before she placed the book on the table. She faced the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Her eyes focused on Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. A quiet sigh escaped resonated in the room before her horn began to glow in a purple light, an ethereal hum to follow. Twilight closed her eyes. She lifted her head.

"Ok," Twilight opened her eyes, "though they appear benign, I cannot ascertain the true nature of those crystals right now, and I do want to get those crystals out of you. There is no telling what they could do." she said. Beads of sweat formed along her forehead. The drops of water slid down her face like the rain flowing down the side of the castle. Several large drops coalesced on her chin then fell to the ground. After a quick "are you ready" to the fillies in front of her, receiving a determined "yes" in return, she unleashed a powerful bolt of energy. The purple bolt flew towards the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Twilight's right eye twitched. "What?! This... this... this isn't -- it defies all possible logic."

Soft light illuminated the room, reflecting off Twilight's eyes. Several quick gasps came from the other ponies in the room.

Sweetie Belle lowered her hoof and gazed at Apple Bloom, "How are you doing that?"

"A magic shield?" Apple Bloom opened her eyes. The crusader fell backwards, the shield disappearing. She wiped the sweat from her brow, her hooves wobbling beneath her. The filly grinned at Twilight, the purple pony's left eye still twitching. "Can't wait to show Aegis what I can do."

"Hey, wonder what I can do?" Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle said in unison.

Twilight came to her senses and rubbed her forehead, "Ok. Ok. No need to panic. You three have unknown, powerful, ethereal crystals connected to you that can absorb magic and does Celestia knows what else, but everything will be fine. It'll be fine...."
"Twilight. Darling," Rarity said with a creepy smile as she squinted at Twilight, "remind me. How did this all happen?"

The purple pony froze. Her sheepish grin disappeared. She backed away from Rarity.

"Ahem," Applejack said as Twilight bumped into her.

"Well," Rainbow Dash said.

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo walked towards Twilight. The three told the tale of what happened that fateful night Mr. Sine attacked them, and how their mission was a success.

"I said that I was sorry. Besides, if it weren't for that stone, all of us would have been defeated by Sine in his castle." Twilight said. She apologized once more, placing her hooves together. The pony relaxed as the Cutie Mark Crusaders remained at her side. "Thanks girls, but I should have known better. Some princess of friendship I am, putting her friends and family in danger. I should have refused Princess Luna's request."

Apple Bloom shook her head, "Naw, Twilight. You said it yourself. As the Cutie Mark Crusaders, we gotta help out a pony in need. It's just like all of you helpin to protect Equestria."

"Twilight? Are these here fillies gonna be alright?" Applejack said. She raised an eyebrow, "Twi, you best have a good answer. Ah ain't --"

The doors to the laboratory flung open. A blast of lightning illuminated the hallway, reflecting off two green eyes. Spike charged inside the room. "Twilight!"

"Geez Spike, way to scare us half to death here." Apple Bloom said.

"Sorry. Aren't you supposed to be keeping an eye on the time?" Spike said.

Pinkie Pie's ears perked up. She looked at the watch underneath her hooves, "I thought I was supposed to stand watch. Not watch the time."

Twilight's eyes widened. She levitated the watch out from under her friend, causing the pink pony to roll onto her back. "Tardy. Tardy. Tardy. Tardy. TARDY!"

Rarity sighed. She shook her head, and then rolled her eyes.

"Same old egghead," Rainbow Dash snickered, jabbing Applejack in the side.

"Fall Fling Festival" The cutie mark crusaders said in a unison voice.

Rarity walked towards the three fillies, "Now, now. Let's get you three ready, along with ourselves. We'll let Twilight get this out of her system."

*** *** ***

"Welcome one and all to the first ever, Fall Fling Festival." Twilight said with an elated smile as she stood on the podium. The pony looked over a crowd of mares, stallions, fillies, colts, and foals. "I hope you enjoy yourselves tonight as we head into Hearths Warming Eve month, giving us all a time of happiness."

"Woohoo!" Pinkie Pie said in a muffled tone while she scarfed down some food.

Several ponies glanced at the pink pony, and then turned back towards Twilight. The group gave an enthusiastic cheer before they began to mingle with one another.

Apple Bloom charged through the crowd with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo behind her. She came to a stop near a dessert tray. Her outstretched hooves reached forward, and then found the tray pulled away by her big sister. The filly grumbled under a heated breath, but she soon gave the pink pony a sly wink along with her friends.

"I must say, this idea was quite refreshing." Rarity said. She wiped a tear from her eye with a quick hoof. "I can't believe Sweetie Belle is growing up."

Applejack placed her hat over her face, wiping away a tear. "Ya, same with Bloom. Feels like just yesterday me and Big Mac were watchin over her while she crawled around the farm house."

"Eeyup." Big Macintosh said as he passed by.

The six ponies chuckled at each other. Their banter ceased. They turned towards a crowd of ponies that let out several "ooo's" and "ahh's" and began to part.

"This is a wonderful event, Twilight. I'm quite pleased with how you've prepared everything." Princess Celestia approached the six ponies. She gave a polite smile to them. The princess turned towards Rarity, "Thank you again for the lovely attire. I'm sorry that it came at such short notice, and you had to put a rush job in for the sake of me and my sister."

An elated grin greeted Princess Celestia. Rarity remained silent. Princess Celestia gave a sheepish grin in return, waving a hoof in front of the unicorn.

"Did you break her?" Princess Luna said, scratching her chin with her hoof. She chuckled as her sister blushed at the comment. "I have to concur with my sister. This outfit is rather splendid."

"Twily, how's it goin?" A familiar voice said.

Twilight latched onto Shining Armor, and then released him. "I thought you couldn't make it."

"I'm always here for my little sis. Besides, me and Cadence wanted to make sure your little event went off without a hitch." Shining Armor said, ending with a sly wink to the pony at his side.

"Definitely. I can't wait to introduce this holiday to the Crystal Kingdom. Things have been quite stale as of late." Princess Cadence said.

Rainbow Dash bolted behind a tree. She motioned to Scootaloo as the others began to chat. Her eyes glanced at each area of the Canterlot Garden. The athletic pony gave a devilish grin to the filly that approached her.

"Rainbow Dash. You weren't about to play a prank, were you? This is Twilight's big event." Fluttershy said, floating above her two friends. "We've got to respect her big night."

The athletic pony rolled her eyes at the pegasus, "O come on, Fluttershy. It's soooooo uptight here. We weren't gonna pull anything huge. Look, before you say it, I do remember what happened with Pinkie Pie's little prank war when we visited Canterlot last week. It won't be anything big. Lighten up a little."

"I don't know," Scootaloo looked towards the crowd then back towards Rainbow Dash, "if this is a good idea. I mean, Twilight did put a lot of effort into this party. Still, it is getting a bit boring."

The two ponies snickered at each other while Fluttershy looked on with her hooves crossed, floating in front of the two. Fluttershy's eyes widened. She grabbed the spider, petted its head, and placed the arachnid on the ground. The pony pointed a stern hoof towards the party.

"Don't but me. You're the element of loyalty. You should be setting an example for Scootaloo." Fluttershy said.

"Fine. Come on squirt. There's gotta be something else." Rainbow Dash said.

*** *** ***

The party continued on with the sun setting in the distance and the moon rising. Stars twinkled in the night sky. Gentle light from lit lamps along the Canterlot Garden's pathway illuminated the spacious party. Under the stars, the soiree continued with more guests arriving.
Twilight gazed at the party. She wiped a small bead of sweat from her forehead while Princess Celestia stood at her side. "I can't believe this went so well."

"It has gone rather nicely, my faithful student." Princess Celestia said, placing a kind wing over Twilight. She retracted her wing. A tear ran down her cheek, glinting in the light of the moon. "It's wonderful to have my sister back with me. All those years, I can't fathom how she -- Luna..."

Princess Luna pulled Big Macintosh into the dance ring. Pinkie Pie hollered at the two, cheering them on. The guardian of the night smiled at the stallion while he blushed in return.

Princess Celestia chuckled at Princess Luna. The slice of cake that levitated in front of her fell to the ground. "It. Can't be."

The music stopped. Ponies gasped. Their hooves quivered beneath them.

"King Sombra?" The nine ponies near Princess Celestia said in a unison voice.

The unicorn stallion rose from a pool of coalesced shadows. Alongside him materialized an army of changeling warriors. In the crowd, several ponies removed their disguise.

"Hello, Princess Celestia." King Sombra smirked. He glanced at the decoration. His eyes focused, "I see. It appears my 'subordinate,'" the unicorn stallion pulled Queen Chrysalis into the open, "was telling the truth. There is a new princess in Equestria."

Twilight glanced towards Queen Chrysalis, and then back towards King Sombra. " Spike and Princess Cadence dealt with you. How are you back in Equestria?"

"Nothing is ever certain, you foalish little alicorn. Nor is anything what it appears to be. Isn't that right, 'Princess' Celestia." King Sombra ended with a quick and sinister laugh. He marched towards the ruler of Equestria. "O, if only they knew the truth like I know it."

Twilight raised an eyebrow, along with her friends. She moved in front of Princess Celestia who appeared frozen in place. The purple pony flew backwards, repulsing a wave of coalesced magical energy.

"What have you done, Queen Chrysalis!" Princess Celestia, the red gem embedded in King Sombra's horn reflecting off her eyes. "Sombra, please. You don't know --"

"Wrong! I know of this amulet's power. Don't you remember? I was the one who made it, per 'your' instructions. The same can be said of when my former self made the stone that sits in your neckpiece." King Sombra said as he pointed at Princess Celestia. His horn aglow in a fierce light, the unicorn stallion unleashed a powerful blast of energy. "Impressive. You've gotten stronger."

Shining Armor panted in a heavy breath. He marched toward the stallion. His eyes glanced at Queen Chrysalis before focusing back onto the enemy before him. Tense, silent moments passed by while the two stallions stared down one another.

"You need to learn your place, peasant." King Sombra said, leaping away.

"No!" Shining Armor screamed.

A bolt of energy flew towards Princess Cadence.

"What?!" King Sombra said.

"Phew, that was a close one." Apple Bloom said. She smiled at Princess Cadence who looked at the filly with a raised eyebrow. "Ah guess me and the others got some explaining to do."

King Sombra launched several more bolts of pure magic towards the pregnant alicorn, all being absorbed by the magical shield.

"Aegis!" Sweetie Belle said, hugging the hoof of her friend.

"Who is this unicorn?" Aegis said.

"Enough of this." King Sombra said. Several tendrils launched forth from his shadow, constricted the magical shields placed around the ponies. He snarled as Apple Bloom's shield remained intact. "Do it, Princess Celestia. Do it and I shall release them. You have my word."

The ruler of Equestria bit down on her lip, and then sighed. She opened her eyes, "Please. Don't hurt my little ponies."

Twilight darted towards Princess Celestia, but found herself pushed away.

"I'm sorry Twilight. There were some secrets, dark secrets I hoped you never had to learn about me." Princess Celestia said. She placed a hoof over her chest piece. A soft glow enveloped her horn. The peaceful glow grew violent with sparks of magic dripping from her horn. "From thy keep, from thy slumber thou art released and awakened. In the name of Helios, I unchain thee. Nightmare Star!"

Seven flames erupted beneath the alicorn. A pillar of fire rose up toward the sky and engulfed her. The moon froze in place. Princess Celestia's multi-colored mane and tail turned a vibrant hue of orange and red. Her once peaceful gaze grew violent with a slight fiery breath coming from her mouth with each breath she exhaled.

Princess Luna's jaw dropped. She shook her head. The nightly guardian reinforced her shield. "Protect them, Aegis! I will do my best over here."

Aegis nodded to the mare. The pony reinforced her shield with the others doing the same.

King Sombra's eyes widened, and he produced his own bulwark just as the blazing inferno engulfed the area. The unicorn stallion grinned, "Well done, Nightmare Star. Your power leaves me tingling."

"Princess Celestia, please. Don't do this." Twilight said. She gazed at her reflection in the eyes of the mare who towered above her. "Please."

"No." Nightmare Star said.

"Twilight, RUN! Get your friends out of here." Princess Luna said.

The pony's tear vaporized in the heat as she struggled to illuminate her horn. A brilliant flash of light enveloped the area with Nightmare Star standing near King Sombra, a terrified Queen Chrysalis, and the changeling army.

Queen Chrysalis looked on. She watched King Sombra bow to Nightmare Star, giving the alicorn a gentle peck on the cheek.

"Subordinate!" King Sombra yelled at Queen Chrysalis, "You will find those ponies. You will track them down. You will bring them before me. As of now, per the rule of Nightmare Star and myself, they are traitors to this kingdom."

The deposed changeling ruler looked at her reflection in the alicorn's fierce eyes. "Sombra, she will turn your kingdom to ash," the changeling queen fell to the ground and clutched the collar around her neck" Y-you. You know it."

"Nightmare Star has my utmost trust, unlike a conniving freak such as yourself." King Sombra said. He marched towards Queen Chrysalis. He pointed a stern hoof at her, "You will do as you are told. Now. Bring them to me. Or do you need to be replaced?"

"..." Queen Chrysalis stood up. She bowed, "As you wish."

"Thus dawns the arrival of the Coronal Empire and its Facular capital!" King Sombra said in a guttural tone. His boisterous voice resonated in the once jovial scene. Banners from the once jovial party turned to ash, wisps of smoke coming from what remained of their smoldering remains. The unicorn stallion reveled in the voices of adulation that erupted from the changeling army that stood behind him. He turned and faced them, "Bask in the accomplishments of your King -- no. Your Emperor! My army, go forth and gather those still in the former capital of that once disgustingly lavish land. All who do not heed the will of Nightmare Star and myself shall see the light and serve us, or they will be purged."

Subterfuge

The main interior hall of the crystal castle brightened for a brief second, and then grew dark. Several ponies lay scattered about the floor of the room, some of them rising to their hooves. The equines glanced at each other. They breathed a heavy sigh of relief before assisting the injured.

Spike rubbed his claws together as he fought back his tears. The little dragon walked alongside Princess Luna. His eyes remained glued on the pony that levitated in the alicorn's magical grasp. The two arrived at Twilight's bedroom where Spike sat by the side of his family. No longer able to hold back the tears, he grabbed a small bit of tissue and wiped his eyes. The little dragon buried his head into his propped up knees. In a quiet, muffled voice he said, "What happened?"

Twilight's bedroom remained silent. Apple Bloom rested on Applejack's back before being placed into a spare bed. Princess Cadence floated Shining Armor into the spare bed next to Twilight. She stat by his side where a kind, gentle wing was placed over her withers.

"Thanks," Princess Cadence said.

Princess Luna nodded to the tearful pony. The guardian of the night sighed, glancing over the room in front of her.

"It ain't good, Spike." Applejack said as she stepped forward, lowering her head. The pony removed her hat. Her eyes looked over her friend who lay unconscious in the bed. "Twilight and her brother, they tried their best to protect us. King Sombra is back, and he did something to Princess Celestia. She's an enemy now, callin' herself 'Nightmare Star' or somethin'."

Spike clenched his claws. He extended a single digit. The little dragon targeted the pony, "You're lying. Princess Celestia would never hurt Twilight or any pony for that matter. I refuse to believe it."

"Spike. I share in your grief. Like you, I am angry at the situation that has transpired, but we cannot succum to King Sombra's hatred. If we fight amongst ourselves, he will not have to lift a single hoof to destroy us." Princess Luna said. She placed a calm, gentle wing over the little dragon. "I'm sorry, but what Applejack says is the truth. My sister is now the enemy, and I dare say she is a fearsome opponent, one King Sombra will underestimate."

Apple Bloom glanced at the ceiling while she lay in the bed adjacent to Twilight and Shining Armor. Her eye lids crept open and closed several times. The filly placed a hoof over her eyes. She slammed her hoof against the soft mattress beneath her.

"Do not think of this as failure, Apple Bloom. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for the great deed you did in protecting me. The same goes for you too, Aegis." Princess Cadence said. She motioned towards the pony, "It's alright. Princess Luna filled me in on the situation. In all honesty, you could be considered Shiny's little sister, and a part of our family."

A tall mare poked her head inside the room, and then smiled at Princess Cadence. She hid behind the door. The pony moved forward on nervous hooves from behind the door. A dim light enveloped the mare before she turned into her filly self. Aegis maintained her gentle smile towards the princess who smiled in return towards her. After a brief moment, the filly hugged the tall pony in front of her before she turned toward Shining Armor.

Several bolts of lightning struck nearby with the once peaceful storm's ferocity growing. Water cascaded down the side of the castle. The wind howled outside. It blew through several open windows before they were shut. An exasperated sigh escaped the little dragon's lips before he jogged to the castle's front door.

"Help!" Spike ran towards the bedroom. He pointed at the hallway and ran towards the castle entrance with several ponies behind him. "Zecora's collapsed outside!"

Pinkie Pie helped Zecora to her hooves and escorted the zebra to the bedroom where Fluttershy applied several fresh bandages.

"My friends. I am sorry. This is my fault, in the end." Zecora said. Her hooded cloak lay off to the bed's side, along with her saddlebag. She found herself pushed back by a soft hoof. The Zebra sat back up, shaking her head at Fluttershy. "What they wanted was unknown to me, and it is only now that I can see. They took the item from its spot. It was the alicorn amulet that they sought."

"A little late for that info," Rainbow Dash said.

"Again, I am sorry for what has transpired, my friends. I will do whatever I can to make things right in the end." Zecora said.

Princess Luna nodded to Zecora before she left the room. Applejack and Pinkie Pie saw to Zecora, alongside Fluttershy. Spike and Rarity attended Twilight where Rarity levitated a cool cloth over her friend's head. Princess Cadence and Aegis looked after Shining Armor, the mother to be alicorn consoling herself and Aegis.

Apple Bloom rubbed her forehead. She slid off the bed. With Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo at her side, the Cutie Mark Crusaders surreptitiously walked by the three small groups of ponies. They followed behind Princess Luna.

*** *** ***

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle helped Apple Bloom up once more as they continued their slow pursuit of Princess Luna. Inside the laboratory, they watched Princess Luna stoke a careful fire in the crystal fireplace. The four equines gazed out the window to see the rainstorm continuing its deluge outside.

"So," Apple Bloom rubbed a slight hoof against her neck, "what do we do now?"

Princess Luna turned towards the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She remained silent. The poker in her hoof crept towards the fire, pushing against the logs in the fire. The princess faced the fire and pushed it several more times. With a delicate hoof, the mare placed the poker aside. She stood up and faced the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Her eyes matched her melancholic tone, "There are secrets, dark secrets that are kept from Equestria and those we protect. To 'cut to the chase' as it were, I believe my sister kept Nightmare Star a secret from me just as I kept Nightmare Moon a secret from her until it was too late. It's only now that part of her came to light."

Sweetie Belle rubbed a slow hoof across her chin. She stopped. A slight smile came to her, "This is nothing. Our sisters and Twilight can use the power of harmony to defeat King Sombra and turn Nightmare Star back into Princess Celestia."

The princess shook her head, "That is apples and oranges, I'm sad to say. The power worked against Tirek because of his nature. The Elements of Harmony worked against me, and helped rid me of that darker side. Nightmare Star is different somehow. I don't know why, but there is something much, much deeper to all of this. I can sense it."

"What did King Sombra mean by all that stuff saying he created that gem?" Scootaloo said.

"Again, I wish that I could tell you the answer. The only one who would know is my sister." Princess Luna said.

The room fell silent. Outside, the rain ceased. Beams of light gleamed into the castle.

"No." Princess Luna said. She flew towards a window and gazed outside. The princess's withers shivered before she came down. "It should be midnight. If the day lasts forever, the harm it does could be irreparable."

"Huh?" Scootaloo said.

Princess Luna pointed towards a small plant, making it wither into nothingness."Without balance, without the night to cool the land our food will be destroyed. Equestria will sizzle under the sun's rays as it remains at its apex."

The Cutie Mark Crusaders looked at each other. They nodded to one another then faced Princess Luna.

Apple Bloom collapsed to the ground. She clutched her stomach. Her groans reverberated throughout the quiet room.

"Bloom?!" Applejack said as she came into the room. "We gotta get ya back into bed. You're still hurt from. Using -- Scootaloo? Sweetie Belle? What's wrong?!"

Rarity and Rainbow Dash bolted into the room as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo fell to the ground. The two ponies watched the fillies twitching on the ground. Apple Bloom's once isolated groan grew contagious as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle clutched onto their stomachs. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo closed their eyes.

Princess Luna levitated the three ponies towards her, and then produced a strong ethereal shield. The dark blue shield remained unphased in the brilliant flash of light that blasted throughout the castle.

"Scootaloo!" Rainbow Dash said, slamming into the shield.

"Sweetie Belle." Rarity said, her eyes glued to the now smoke filled room.

The princess lowered her shield. Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash bolted towards the fillies. They stopped. Applejack lowered her Stetson hat. Rarity placed a hoof over her mouth. Rainbow Dash's eyes widened.

"What in the world?" Apple Bloom said. She stood up. "Sweetie Belle? Where'd ya get that armor?"

"I'm not the only one," Sweetie Belle said, pointing at a mirror in the corner. "Scootaloo. Your wings. They're beautiful."

"Sweet Celestia, not to mention large." Rainbow Dash said.

Scootaloo tiled her head. She extended a wing. Her eyes remained glued to the semi-transparent, ethereal wing she extended from her side. The filly gazed at herself in the mirror, "My wings are huge. How can I even fly with these things?"

"This can't be right." Sweetie Belle said. Her eyes glanced at armor that ran along her horn. "What's going on?"

Princess Luna looked at the three fillies. In a concerned tone she said, "It could be due to the crystals Twilight spoke of. Perhaps they have a manifested will that corresponds to the desires of those who wield them. Apple Bloom's desire to protect Princess Cadence goes in line with the shield she seems able to produce."

"Whoa Squirt," Rainbow Dash flew towards Scootaloo, giving the pony a smile. The athletic pony looked over the filly before giving an ecstatic grin. "You'd give Princess Celestia a run for her bits with those wings... sorry."

"It is alright. My sister would laugh at the joke, and we need a bit of joviality to lighten this rather dark mood." Princess Luna said.

Curious eyes gazed out the castle windows to see a bright day greeting Ponyville. Several mares, stallions, fillies, and colts went about their business. Canterlot remained a speck on the distant mountain, its image untouched thus far.

"Is Twilight up?" Scootaloo said. She floated towards the ground. Her slight smile faded into a frown with her overgrown, ethereal wings flopping to the ground. "What are we gonna do? This is way out of our league. All we need now is King Sombra to unleash Tartarus."

"What did you say?" Princess Luna said.

"Just that we have some bad luck." Scootaloo said.

"No, you said Tartarus." Princess Luna said.

"Yea. Our luck is rotten. I wouldn't be surprised if Sombra unleashed Tartarus." Scootaloo said.

Princess Luna rubbed a hoof against her chin. She shook her head, "Your fears may be justified, Scootaloo. The longer the Alicorn Amulet remains in King Sombra's possession, the more powerful he becomes. Equestria could be doomed if King Sombra can unleash the gates of Tartarus and enlist the enemies that have been locked away for a millennia."

Rainbow Dash pointed her hoof at Princess Luna, "I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to give up yet, Princess. We may not have a necklaces anymore, but we're still the elements of harmony. I'm sure these Crusaders right here aren't willing to go down easily either. Right, Squirt."

"Right," Scootaloo said.

Princess Luna nodded to the group.

"Welp, ya'll are gonna get a taste of the big life now, little sis. Just stick close. " Applejack said.

"I think that goes without saying, darling. I'm not letting that brute of a unicorn harm my little sister. Still, we'll need all the help we can get to bring things under control." Rarity said.

"So, what's our move?" Apple Bloom said.

Princess Luna pulled the wheeled chalkboard out. Several clicks resonated in the room with the chalk pecking against the black board. The clock in the corner continued to tick by.

"It has been some time since I formulated battle plans and stratagem. Be warned, whenever I played chess against my sister, she came out the victory most of the time, if not all the time." Princess Luna said. She tapped a hoof against the board. "The drawing is crude, but this represents Canterlot Castle. We will proceed inside through the tunnels underneath it. After that, we will make our way to the throne room where I am sure King Sombra and my sister are now residing. If you six can use your power to contend with my sister, I am sure the Crusaders can use theirs to subdue King Sombra. When the others have recovered, we will make haste."

*** *** ***

Light hoof steps echoed off the rock walls in the dark tunnel. Several sets of eyes remained glued to the pony in front that took the lead. In rows of two, the group proceeded forward on cautious hooves. Apple Bloom slumbered on Applejack's back. Scootaloo rested on Rainbow Dash's back with Sweetie Belle on Rarity's back. The three ponies gave the fillies on their backs a look ever-so-often before they faced the cave in front of them.

A slight sigh escaped a pony before she came to a stop. She found herself tugged along by a slight magical force.

"Remind me again, Pink. Why did you have these?" Applejack said, tugging on the straps to her night vision goggles.

"Well duh. You can't have a spy party without spy stuff. I had the whole thing planned out too. It would have been fun a fun, fun." Pinkie Pie said. She grumbled under a heavy breath. "Stupid party ruining King Sombra ruined it. I wanted the whole party to be one huge surprise for Dash's Birthday. Guess I'll have to go through my files again."

Princess Luna placed a hoof to her mouth. Pinkie Pie gave a sheepish grin in return, zipping her lips shut. The rest of the group went silent. Precious minutes ticked by. The equines continued down the path and into the darkness while beads of sweat rolled down Princess Luna's forehead, dripping onto the path below.

"It's difficult to control my magic and form this barrier." Princess Luna said. She adjusted her goggles, letting out an exasperated sigh.

"I can help." Twilight said.

"No. My sister is a cunning mare, and I'm sure that she is scanning for magical anomalies right now." Princess Luna said. She stopped. The mare lowered her head. "Sister. You always said that I could come to you in my time of need. Did you not feel the same? Why didn't you tell me about Nightmare Star?"

"It'll be alright, 'Aunt' Luna." Twilight said.

Princess Luna smirked. "Right. I had almost forgotten about Princess Cadence. For her sake, we must succeed."

The group continued onward down the path, and then stopped. Three separate paths branched outward. Before the seven ponies stepped forward, Princess Luna held out her hoof. She took a deep breath.

"That's odd. I thought you whistled for a second." Fluttershy said.

"Very perceptive. I did whistle. I just hope 'they' hear it." Princess Luna said.

"Who's they? Twilight said. A cold chill crawled up her back. She turned behind her to see the others gazing at the ceiling. Her hoof plunged into her mouth. The pony bit down on her hoof. In a stifled voice she said, "Bats."

Rainbow Dash shook her head. She poked Scootaloo, rousting the filly from her slumber. The athletic pony reassured her passenger and placed the pony on the ground.

Aegis stepped forward and smiled. She removed her goggles and assumed her bat pony form. The tall pony found herself greeted by several clicks from the ponies perched in the cave's ceiling, others scratching their heads.

"They're saying hello," Aegis said with a smile. She turned her smile toward Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle who rubbed their eyes. The pony maintained her smile while the two fillies gazed on in awe at the sight of the sparkling crystals in the cave. "We've made it."

"My loyal subjects, I am sorry to disturb your rest. We need assistance," Princess Luna said. She closed her eyes and removed the goggles. The alicorn mare stood firm. A bright aura surrounded her horn. Brilliant light came from her eyes as ethereal tendrils latched onto multiple crystals. Princess Luna gave a polite bow to the equines before she faced them. "Welcome to 'urbem inclinentur umbrae,' residing below Canterlot, the home of our nocturnal allies."

Aegis nodded before she grinned at the ponies coming down from their homes. She held out her hooves, "Skia."

"Aegis," The little colt said. He leapt up to his friend and found himself embraced by her hooves and wings. "I heard what you did at the party. It was so awesome."

"I'm sorry about the wing. Does it still hurt?" Aegis said, placing the colt on the ground. She turned to one side and scratched the ground with her hoof. "I didn't mean for use to get lost."

"Bah, don't think about it. You saved me from those crystal monsters, remember. Besides, if it weren't for me, we wouldn't have gotten into that mess." Skia said. He glanced at the three fillies and frowned. "Who are they?"

"The Cutie Mark Crusaders." Aegis said.

Skia's mouth dropped. He gazed at their cutie marks. The colt's injured hoof rose and saluted the fillies before he brought it back down, clutching it.

"A little formal there," Apple Bloom said. She extended her hoof and shook the bat pony's hoof. "I'm Apple Bloom. This here is Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle."

Skia flinched. He nodded to the group, giving a hearty grin. The little colt thanked the group for saving his new found friend from the stallion.

The guardian of the night held her hoof out once more and shushed the ponies. She moved forward.

Two green eyes pierced the dim light of the cave. Their owner floated into the air. The equine dropped to the ground, and then extended a massive set of bat-like wings. Pearl white fangs greeted the group.

"That's enough, shade." Princess Luna said. She pointed a hoof at the pony who signed. "Now is not the time for trickery."

"Sorry, Princess Luna." Shade said. The bat pony bowed to the group then raised her head. "I am the governing body of the bat ponies when Princess Luna is in Canterlot. Things must be quite dire for you to bring the 'prophesied' ones down here."

"Huh?" Twilight said.

Princess Luna faced the group, "I've spoken of your tales to the bat ponies, how the elements of harmony rescued me. Aegis has told her own tale of the sisters of harmony, and how these three fillies saved her from an evil stallion."

"Quickly. We'll go inside my house where we can talk." Shade said.

*** *** ***

Pinkie Pie glanced at each object in the house. Rarity marveled at the tapestries of the moderately sized dwelling while Applejack scratched her head as she looked at a small potted apple tree in the corner. The group pressed forward with the stragglers catching up. Twilight's wings twitched at her sides when the ponies walked passed a quaint library, giving a slight sigh when the door closed shut while being locked.

"Princess Luna, I have assembled the requested materials." Shade said.

The princess nodded to the bat pony mare. Princess Luna faced the others. In a calm tone she said, "Our first mission is gaining access to the castle. We will have to go ahead, unaided by magic. As I said, I fear my sister is searching for us. She could very well know we are already here, but that is a risk that must be taken to rid her of Nightmare Star."

Skia motioned to Aegis and the three fillies. The tall bat pony resumed her filly sized self and joined her friends.

"You don't look so good?" Scootaloo said.

"Skia isn't well. He's been sick for some time." Aegis said. She clutched onto her friend before turning back towards the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "We were searching for a rare herb in the caves that could supposedly cure his illness completely. I'm just thankful that Princess Luna knows about it, and she's been giving him nightly treatments under the moonlight."

"What kinda treatments?" Apple Bloom said.

"I don't know, to be honest. I just know that he's been sick for as long as he can remember. It has to do with the bat ponies being born in the cave, and only moonlight helps them with the illness." Aegis said.

Skia shook his head, "It's more than that, but, listen... there's something I need too --"

Princess Luna came into the room. She placed a gentle hoof over the colt's back and examined him. "My dear little one, I am sorry that your treatment cannot be performed tonight. Still, I know that you will remain strong. I will fix the dire situation for you and the others."

Several bags of supplies remained on the table when the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Aegis joined the others. Ropes and pickaxes lay on the table as well. Shade pointed towards the rock face and pushed on a stool. The rock face slid down. A slight wind brushed against the group's manes.

One-by-one the group filed into the secret passageway with Shade in the lead.

"We'll have to be cautious. From the commotion, I believe the guards are on watch, 24/7. If not, then there is something wrong." Shade said.

Princess Luna nodded to the mare, reaffirming her decision to lay low during the events at the party. The princess checked on the fillies behind her, and then the others. Soon, exasperating minutes ticked by while the group marched forward.

A large, cavernous room came into view with crystal spikes reaching towards the sky. Inside, a mine cart and several pieces of broken tracks stretched throughout the area. Twilight rubbed her hoof against the rusted metal. The pony made a silent gesture to herself before she proceeded forward with her friends.

The group stopped at a large crevice in front of them. Aegis resumed her bat-pony form. With the aid of Shade, the ponies who could fly assisted those who could not. On the other side, the ponies crept forward, and then stopped.

The guardian of the night peered through a small hole. She let out a sigh and pressed against the rock face to see it open into a dark dungeon. Princess Luna motioned towards the others who moved inside.

Unicorn, Pegasi, and Earth pony stallions patrolled the area. Determined eyes fixated on specific spots in the room.

"What happened to their armor?" Rarity said.

"You're concerned about fashion at a time like this?" Rainbow Dash whispered in return.

"One must always be concerned about fashion, but I'm more worried about that armor not being the usual style. It's ebony colored with a red stone in the center and a dark sun emblem etched into its face. Not to mention those guards are a little off." Rarity said.

Princess Luna nodded in return. "This has to be King Sombra's doing. Those stallions are some of my sister's closest friends, and yet they look ready to turn on any pony at a moment's notice. I do not like this at all."

"What do we do, Princess Luna?" Aegis said.

"We have to move forward. I can't risk using my magic. The same goes for Twilight and Rarity. Still..." Princess Luna said.

The guard stood at attention near the door to the upper level of Canterlot Castle. He glanced at the corridor below him. Inside the sconce near the hallway, shadows flickered into existence then faded away in an instant. The stallion illuminated his horn and leapt down to the area below.

"Show yourselves!" The stallion said. His hooves gave way as he collapsed to the ground. "Nightmare --"

"Wow, Aegis. How did you knock him out?" Sweetie Belle said. She smiled at the bat pony who blushed at her. "That was neat."

"I'm not fond of that trick, but I can envelop a pony in my shield. It'll drain away their energy, rendering them unconscious for a small period of time." Aegis said.

Princess Luna pointed towards the staircase that lead into the castle. The group of ponies followed behind, keeping their heads down.

*** *** ***

The ponies filed out of the door before it was closed silently. The group crept along the rose colored carpet. They soon found themselves in front of the throne room doors where Princess Luna let out a heavy sigh. She pushed against the door.

"..." Princess Luna remained silent as she scanned the room. The alicorn charged inside. "Where are they?"

"This is the throne room." Twilight said.

The door behind the group slammed shut. Dark, ethereal flames erupted from the ground.

"Well now, I didn't expect you to surrender so easily. Where was this masterful plan that I had heard of?" King Sombra materialized in front of the group that stood before him. He motioned toward Twilight and grinned at the pony that stepped towards him. "You've earned your keep, my servant."

"Don't call me that," Twilight said. Green flames consumed her form. Queen Chrysalis stood firm, tugging at the collar around her neck. "Release me. I've done as you commanded."

"All good dogs need a collar, and yours is quite pretty the way it goes with your neck." King Sombra said.

"Guys!" A voice said. Twilight burst into the room, gazing at Queen Chrysalis and King Sombra. "No..."

"When did it happen?" Princess Luna said.

King Sombra grinned. "Just after the party. The one at your side is the real one, I won't lie about that. But the one who went with you throughout the underground caverns, that was my spy. Not to mention..."

Shade stepped forward. She glanced to one side while Princess Luna clenched her teeth. "Your treatments only prolong the inevitable, my princess. Please, please understand that I need a 'cure' for him. I don't want to lose my son."

"You shall have your reward, as promised. Now, how about a family reunion." King Sombra said.

The air in the room began to ripple. Small, calm, candle-like flames faded into existence. They coalesced. A column of raging fire spun around in the room before it formed into a perfect sphere. The fireball dispersed; it's embers floated into the air before being snuffed out.

Nightmare Star floated in the air on fiery wings. She glared at the ponies beneath here. The mare's intense gaze turned toward King Sombra. Nightmare Star floated towards him. Her eyes glanced towards the stallion before she bolted forward in a flash.

A rush of hot air blew past the ponies as the mare stood firm, the unnerved stares of the ponies in front of her reflecting off her malefic stare. The mare smiled. "It feels good to stretch my wings. My 'real' wings. Why not let go, my sister. Resume the form you were revered for, the one that caused those around you fear and terror."

"Remember who you are, my dear sister. You are Princess Celestia, the kind, wise ruler of Equestria. Return to us and help to end King Sombra and end his --" Princess Luna said.

Aegis bolted forward. She raised her hooves. The tall bat pony stood in front of Princess Luna. Her ethereal, anti-magic shield cracked from the force of the fiery blast that shattered the stained glass windows in the throne room.

King Sombra lowered his own shield, Queen Chrysalis hiding behind the unicorn stallion.

"All those who oppose this Facular empire shall be incinerated!" Nightmare Star said. Her strong hoof rammed against the bat pony's ethereal shield, causing it to crack further. She squinted. "My former sister, it is only out of respect that I hold back. You're the one who needs to let go. Embrace your former self and become the dark one who terrorizes those who slumber!"

King Sombra's eyes widened as Princess Luna shook her head. His horn glowed in a powerful, blinding red light. The unicorn stallion's shield enveloped Nightmare Star. Sparks dripped forth from his horn as he contained the fiery blast.

"I want this capital to still be standing, Nightmare Star!" King Sombra said.

Twilight crept forward. Her eyes reflected off the mare that towered above her. She slammed against the back wall, collapsing after the hit from Nightmare Star.

"Now!" Princess Luna said. She pointed at the Cutie Mark Crusaders, "Restrain King Sombra!"

"Right!" The fillies said. They steadied themselves. Their armor materialized and surrounded them. "We're gonna stop you."

A red bolt of energy flew forward. Apple Bloom held out her hooves. The bolt of energy dissipated as it struck the shield in front of Apple Bloom's outstretched hooves. She focused her sight on King Sombra.

Scootaloo winced. Ethereal wings shot from her sides. The filly rocketed into the air. She propelled herself forward. Her armored hoof slammed into King Sombra's cheek.

Sweetie Belle illuminated her horn. In a delicate voice, she hummed a slight tune. An aura enveloped the unicorn stallion. His hooves gave way. He collapsed to the ground.

Twilight gazed on in awe before she joined her friends. The pony illuminated her horn while Princess Luna and Aegis held Nightmare Star at bay.

King Sombra chuckled. His sinister laugh resounded throughout the throne room. "You're so naive. It will be your undoing."

The unicorn stallion liquefied into a shadow. Coalesced, shadowy tendrils latched onto the six ponies before three more latched onto the fillies. Six ponies were flung away with three fillies floating in front of a pair of dark, malefic eyes.

King Sombra snickered. He shook the fillies before flinging them against the wall.

"Thanks Aegis." Scootaloo said as she and the others were let down gently. The filly pointed her hoof at the shadow, "What's going on. What happened."

"It's quite simple. You can't control your powers, but I can control mine." King Sombra said. He resumed his form. "I let you escape. There won't be a second time. No matter where in Equestria you go, I will find you."

Twilight teleported back into the throne room with her friends. She calmed herself, "Girls, over here. Princess Luna. Aegis. We have to retreat."

Blinding light illuminated the throne room. King Sombra, Nightmare Star, and Queen Chrysalis remained with the attackers gone.

"..." King Sombra snarled. Before he could lash out, Nightmare Star placed a hoof over his back and pulled him closer. The unicorn stallion sighed. He pulled away and moved towards the throne. King Sombra placed a hoof against his chin, scratched it, and then placed the hoof back on the ground. "I will not be denied my right. Chrysalis! There is no doubt they will return to that disgusting crystal tree castle in Ponyville. It's time that eyesore were razed, burning it to the ground."

Nightmare Star nodded. In a fiery flash, she and the deposed changeling ruler vanished.

Desolation

*** *** ***

The bedroom brightened in a brilliant flash of light, and then dimmed. Six ponies, four fillies, and one alicorn mare fell to the ground. Each pony helped the other up. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity saw to the sleeping Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. Princess Luna helped Aegis to her hooves.

"I've failed..." Princess Luna lowered her head. She fell to the floor, burying her head into her hooves. The princess wrapped her flowing tail wrapped around her body and curled up into a ball. The flowing mane hid the mare's eyes. As she remained motionless on the cold ground inside the castle, in a tearful, quiet voice, she said to those around her, "I'm sorry. I'm sorry..."

Applejack stood by Apple Bloom with Rainbow Dash near Scootaloo, and Rarity beside Sweetie Belle. The Cutie Mark Crusaders rested in the spare beds that were brought into the main chamber. Princess Cadence turned away from Shining Armor, attending to the injured, and then returned to the side of her injured husband.

Time moved forward with the bright beams of sunlight entering into the room. Spike stood near Twilight. The little dragon placed a gentle claw on her side, receiving a hug in return.

"I should be the one apologizing. If Queen Chrysalis hadn't caught us off guard, we could have surprised them and won. I'm sure of it." Twilight said. She crept toward Princess Luna. "We have to be strong for the sake of my mentor, for your sister. I know Princess Celestia is still inside Nightmare Star. King Sombra doesn't control her."

Princess Luna remained motionless, "Leave me be. I've failed Equestria. Even worse, I've failed my sister. We cannot win this fight."

Twilight's ears lowered. She turned towards her friends. Pinkie Pie brought out a piece of cake and slid it towards the guardian of the night, only to see it remain untouched.

"What do we do now?" Fluttershy said.

"I can tell you what I'm 'not' gonna do," Rainbow Dash pointed at Princess Luna, "I'm not gonna give up. So we failed. Big deal. If nothing works out, we move forward. We've always managed to pull it through. That's what it means to be loyal. It means to stick to it." she said, receiving a gentle smile from Twilight. Rainbow Dash returned to Scootaloo's side. The athletic pony brushed a soft hoof against the fillies mane. "Still. It does feel like we're way out classed here. The Alicorn Amulet. Nightmare Star. Queen Chrysalis. We're getting jumped at from all sides."

"You don't know the half of it." Spike said. The little dragon received several raised eyebrows. "You want to tell em?"

Princess Cadence shook her head. "You best tell them."

"Tell us what?" Twilight said.

Spike sat down on the nearby chair. His exasperated sigh reverberated throughout the room. "Ponyville is turning against itself. I saw nine ponies fighting amongst themselves. They're getting angry at the littlest thing. What's weird is the fact their eyes seemed to flash in some weird red color before they went off."

Princess Luna raised her head. She bolted towards Spike, asking him to repeat what he said. The guardian of the night held a hoof over her mouth, and then placed it on the ground. Her hoof slammed into the ground, "We were wrong -- no. I was wrong. King Sombra doesn't intend to unleash the foes of Tartarus. He plans to turn the ponies of Equestria against themselves and feed off their hatred."

"Can he do that?" Fluttershy said.

"It happened before the fall of the Crystal Empire." Princess Luna said. She illuminated her horn. An illusionary, magical circle manifested in front of the ponies. A small image showed mother turning against son with sister turning against brother. "King Sombra enslaved ponies, that is true. What he ultimately did however, it was much crueler. My sister and I assaulted the unicorn stallion to end his tyranny where he fed off the negative emotions of his subjects, their hatred of him festering like a horrible sore. Princess Cadence," Princess Luna turned toward the pony, "the crystal ponies aren't their true selves without love. It was your power that returned them to their former selves and purged Sombra's hatred and fear from their bodies."

"Wait, so King Sombra feeds off fear and hate? That's one weird diet." Pinkie Pie said.

"She is right, in a technical sense." Princess Luna said to the ponies that looked at their friend. "He relishes in those who fear and loathe him. I dare say that King Sombra is almost vampiric in nature."

The six ponies chatted amongst themselves before Princess Cadence clutched her sides. Twilight bolted to her, breathing a heavy sigh of relieve.

"Cadence?" Shining Armor said.

"Shiny?" Twilight said.

"Hey, Twily. You holding down the fort while your big bro took a nap?" Shining Armor said. He pushed the bed covers off to the side. The unicorn stallion rubbed his forehead, wincing for a second before turning towards Cadence. Shining Armor gave his beloved wife a quick peck on the cheek. "Sorry. I should be the one taking care of you. What's going on? Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle? What happened to them?"

"It's not good." Twilight said.

"Prince Shining Armor, I will fill you in on the details. We must make hast though. I fear our safety may only be temporary." Princess Luna said.

*** *** ***

The clock in the corner of the laboratory chimed nine times. Rays of sunlight illuminated the room. Bubbles formed in a jar and burst when they reached the liquids surface. Each pony looked over the diagram drawn onto the mobile chalkboard.

"Well, that won't work. It'll be like last time. There's no tellin' who we can trust." Applejack said.

"What did King Sombra mean by 'you don't have control over your power' before we returned here?" Sweetie Belle said.

Princess Luna looked over the fillies, "That was my fault. I put you in harm's way, believing your power could vanquish him. I will learn from my mistake, and I will trust that Twilight Sparkle has a better plan."

"I don't." Twilight said, her ears lowering. She faced her friends and allies, "We've always faced a foe, one-on-one. This time, we face the combined forces of two old foes, not to mention I have no clue about Nightmare Star or her capabilities. Even worse, King Sombra appears to be a completely different pony with the alicorn amulet at his disposal."

"So we're just giving up?" Rainbow Dash squinted at her friend.

Twilight shook her head, "On the contrary, I plan for us to fight our hardest battle. I believe in the power that was gifted to us by the tree of harmony. The unknown comes from the three crystal the Cutie Mark Crusaders possess. It is a key to winning, but, and I hate having to say this, I don't know how we can utilize their talents."

The ponies chatted amongst themselves. Shining Armor stood near Princess Cadence, giving her a kind kiss on the cheek. Princess Luna stood at the chalkboard, scrutinizing the battle plans.

All of them froze. A thin beam of light ran through the room. The castle's top lifted up, flying off into the distance.

Twilight's eyes widened. Her jaw dropped. The crystal tree castle's top stopped in mid air before burning to dust.

"Hello, 'sister.'" Nightmare Star said.

The outside world darkened. A shadow lengthened on the ground. Several hisses and clicks resonated in the outside world. Hooves pounded on the castle's front door before it gave way. Stallions, mares, fillies, and colts galloped inside. Angered hooves pointed at Twilight and her friends.

An army of changelings descended to the ground, surrounding the castle.

"Surrender and make it easy on yourselves." Queen Chrysalis said. She tugged on her collar, and then resumed her vicious gaze towards the ponies in front of her. "I'm getting rather 'tired' of that!"

Twilight collapsed to the ground, an indentation forming beneath her. Her hooves remained immobilized.

"Gravity Field Spells are rather nice when you need to immobilize a pony." Nightmare Star said. She crept forward, looking over her sister. The mare illuminated her horn, "No more chances. No more mercy. It is time to lock you away, forever."

"No!" Scootaloo screamed. She and her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders produced their armor. "We won't let you harm Princess Luna. She's your sister."

Nightmare Star faced the fillies. She flew backwards, repulsed by the shield Apple Bloom produced. A malefic stare greeted the Cutie mark Crusaders. Her horn aglow, the mare caused the fillies to collapse to the ground underneath a gravity field.

Rainbow Dash bolted towards the jar containing the bubbling liquid. "Here!"

"What... is this!" Nightmare Star said as she fell to the ground, a sticky substance covering her wings. Flames escaped her open mouth with each breath. "Enough!"

The deposed changeling ruler's eyes widened. She pointed a hoof, but the changeling army refused to follow her command. Queen Chrysalis illuminated her horn, along with Shining Armor. The two shields intermingled.

A barren field lay around the group. Nightmare Star's eyes burned. Fire continued to escape her open mouth with each breath she took. Embers floated off her fiery flowing tail. Her hoof steps seared the ground, leaving a trail of charred marks.

"All who oppose me shall be incinerated -- no. I've got a better idea." Nightmare Star said. A fiery aura enveloped her horn. The elements of harmony rose into the air. A fiery shell enveloped the six ponies with them flying to different parts of Equestria. Fierce eyes turned towards Princess Luna. Another fiery shell enveloped Nightmare Star's sister. "Your fate shall be far worse."

Princess Luna's prison flew towards Canterlot, boring itself into the mountain side. Chains of fire latched onto Shining Armor, and then another.

"How dare you! We are on the same side." Queen Chrysalis yelled. She tugged on the chains around her neck, soon breaking them. "King Sombra will here of this, traitor."

"It was his orders, not mine. You're a liability." Nightmare Star said, illuminating her horn once more.

Princess Cadence tugged on the chains around her husband's neck. Tears rolled to her cheeks. She winced as the flames seared her hooves.

Soon, the mob of ponies parted. Zecora stepped forth. She grinned at the sight in front of her. Nightmare Star smiled in return.

"You are foals to return. This idiocy shall be your undoing. It's time for you to burn." Zecora said. She reached for a pouch. A red powder poured into her hoof. The zebra looked at the four fillies, the Queen Chrysalis, and then Princess Cadence. "..."

Nightmare Star illuminated her horn as Zecora blew on the powder. A brilliant flash of light blinded the all of those in its vicinity. The fiery mare lowered her hoof to see a bubble forming around her, the crowd, and the changeling army.

Furious hooves pounded against the shield. Beads of sweat rolled down Shining Armor's forehead. The sweat dripped from his cheeks, evaporating in the heat of the area. He winced with each forceful strike made by Nightmare Star. Magical blasts and hooves pounded against the shields that surrounded the ponies and changeling army.

"I won't... let you... get them." Shining Armor struggled. The chains around his neck tightened. A shield formed around his neck chain. His eyes widened, "Sombra."

"King Sombra, peasant!" The unicorn stallion said. A red glow enveloped his horn, infecting Shining Armor's horn. King Sombra laughed in a maniacal tone before he flung his cape around his body. "This is a great day. Our enemies have been flung to the far corners of Equestria, never to return again."

A changeling crept towards King Sombra. Several hisses and clicks escaped it, the changeling being flung away.

"Filthy creature. You will speak to me in my tongue. Not that disgusting, unintelligible garbage that escapes your orifice when you attempt to speak." King Sombra said.

Nightmare Star remained silent. She crept forward. "Your enemies are vanquished, King Sombra."

King Sombra smirked. "Good. Now comes the rise of this great empire and its rightful rulers. Stand by my side, Nightmare Star. You shall be the shining beacon that guides this great nation to its rightful place as ruler of all!"

Our Mission

Two watery eyes glanced down the path, a small plume of dark wisped smoke rising into the air. The filly gazed at the horrible sight that greeted her eyes. She hung her head and closed her eyes. Her ears lowered. She faced her friends while her hooves trudged along the pathway. The shade from the apples trees that crept by provided little relief from the sun's rays.

Apple Bloom moved along the path behind Zecora with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo in toe. Aegis yawned, and then assumed her filly form. The sun remained frozen over the heads of the six equines. Time ticked by while the ponies and their zebra guide moved down the dirt path by Sweetie Apple Acres. Soon, the group came upon Fluttershy's cottage.

Zecora reached forward and tapped her hoof against the wooden door. She gritted her teeth. Her rings jingled as she pounded her hoof against the door, breathing a heavy sigh.

"Where are we going?" Apple Bloom said.

"..." Zecora clenched her teeth, her eyes flashing red for a second. She took a deep breath, exhaled, and then sipped on a small vial of liquid from her saddlebag. A delicate hoof pointed towards a path leading away from Fluttershy's cottage. "We must make haste and move without delay. Our time is precious. We cannot be led astray."

Princess Cadence nodded to Zecora. The mare levitated Aegis onto her back. She gave the filly a gentle smile, receiving one in kind. The group resumed their journey once more.

Hisses, howls, growls, and other emanations greeted the equine's ears as they passed the dark barrier of the forest. All of them stopped as Zecora rubbed the side of her head, the zebra's eyes flashing red once more. The ponies recoiled when their friend stamped a strong hoof against a tree, leaving an indentation. Apple Bloom charged after Zecora who bolted into the forest, the others following.

Zecora dashed into her hut. A small potion reflected off her eyes. She reached for it. Her hooves trembled. The zebra tossed the potion out the window. An angered sigh escaped Zecora.

"Let me help you, Zecora. You don't have to fight King Sombra's spell alone." Princess Cadence said.

Zecora remained silent. She clenched her teeth. The zebra shivered, and then said, "I can resist him, but not for long. We must get you on your way, and make it so you can right this wrong."

"Apple Bloom?" Scootaloo said.

Apple Bloom crept forward. She smiled at Zecora. Her armor materialized. The filly placed a gentle hoof on Zecora's chest. A purple, translucent shield materialized and phased through Zecora. "Get it, Sweetie Belle!"

On cue, Sweetie Belle materialized her armor. She hummed a slight tune, and an aura enveloped the red sphere. The aura dissipated. "Scootaloo!"

Ethereal wings shot out of the pegasus filly. Scootaloo rocketed into the air once outside the hut. The red sphere plummeted to the ground as the pony smacked the object away. She flew towards it and smacked it back into the air. Her wings carried her back and forth as she batted the object around before giving it a final hit and slamming it into the ground. Scootaloo pointed a hoof at Sweetie Belle and nodded at Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom materialized her shield. The intangible, translucent shield morphed into a ball.

Sweetie Belle focused on the object. She illuminated her horn. The sphere shrunk, and then disappeared.

Zecora winced. Her eyes flashed red for a final time. The Zebra smiled at her friends, "Thank you for what you have done. That monster's curse has been undone."

Apple Bloom looked at Zecora, and then back down the path towards Ponyville. "If every pony in Ponyville has one of those things -- we can't win. It took everything ah had to get it out of you and hold it in place."

"You're not the only one, Apple Bloom." Scootaloo said. She floated to the ground, her armor disappearing along with her friend's. "This armor takes a lot out of ya. How can we defeat King Sombra, Nightmare Star, and Queen Chrysalis?"

"We can't." Sweetie Belle said. She sat down on Zecora's bed. The filly glanced at Princess Cadence, and then Aegis. "My voice hurts from just humming that tune. Not to mention I feel totally drained. I'd be nice if we could practice."

Princess Cadence nodded to the others. She levitated Aegis off her back and into the bed. The pony gazed back at Ponyville. Tears streamed down her cheeks, "Shining Armor... please tell me you're alright."

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo sat by Princess Cadence as Zecora pulled down several vials from a cupboard. The three fillies smiled at the mare, Scootaloo patting her on the back.

"What ya makin', Zecora?" Apple Bloom said as she watched the Zebra pull several items from cupboards, pots, and storage containers.

"..." Zecora went about her business. Several hooffuls of powder floated into the cauldron she stirred with care. She uncorked a small stone vial. Blue liquid poured into pot, turning its contents white. Her hoof reached into a sac. Zecora blew a small bit of dust into the air. She gazed around her hut, and then put a ladle into the pot. White liquid flung towards the corner before she pounced. "You're quite the sneak. What is it you seek?"

Queen Chrysalis thrashed about. She illuminated her horn, soon finding herself restrained.

"You caused this! You took my aunt from me. You took my dear sister-in-law from me and her friends. Above all else, you caused me to lose my love. My Shining Armor!" Princess Cadence said. Her horn glowed in a fierce light. The princess stopped. She glanced down to see the Cutie Mark Crusaders standing in front of Queen Chrysalis. "I should be allowed revenge."

"Hatred will breed Hatred. Violence will breed violence, your highness. You must let go of your anger, of your hatred. It's not befitting your title, princess." Zecora said. Her calm eyes reflected off the mare in front of her. "Please, do not give in to despair. That is a horrible place of darkness. Believe me, I know all too well of its lair."

Princess Cadence's horn went dim. She closed her eyes and looked up, "Why?! Why is this happening."

"One word, bug. And we'll shut ya up for good." Scootaloo said, glaring at Queen Chrysalis.

The deposed changeling queen rose up. She glared at the ponies and zebra in front of her. "Do you all believe I don't know that my action have consequences. I've lost my home. I've lost my subjects. I've lost everything because of that wicked stallion. What I desired was revenge, not this."

Zecora glanced at Queen Chrysalis, "All things carry a price, even victory. Of course, this isn't the end of the story."

"Your group lies defeated. I've been cast aside by King Sombra, the one who returned him to Equestria. Nightmare Star will burn this land to ash. Not even my hive will be safe." Queen Chrysalis said. Her ragged mane drooped over her faced. The crown atop her head fell to the ground. "All is lost. Now my kind will wither away without their food. They'll starve, like me."

"So, how will we get to the others?" Apple Bloom said.

"Some sympathy." Queen Chrysalis said, ending with a grumble.

Zecora poured a final bit of potion into the cauldron. From her saddlebag, she produced a map of Equestria. The map floated on the top of the black pot before sinking in. Zecora's eyes glowed as she recited an incantation. She pulled the floating map from atop the bubbling potion and unfurled it.

"It is with this guide that you will find those you seek. This map is yours to take and keep." Zecora said. She nodded to her friends, and then stood by Princess Cadence. "We will journey to the kingdom of the north with the fourth. The deposed one shall join you --"

"Like Tartarus I will. I will not trade subservience of one master to another." Queen Chrysalis hissed.

"Unless you would like to return to your former state. I suggest you accept this new fate." Zecora said.

Queen Chrysalis looked in the mirror. "The collar is gone?"

"It was a powerful and expensive brew. You can at least show 'some' gratitude." Zecora rolled her eyes. She placed a cloak over Princess Cadence and herself. "In case you thought about betrayal, Sweetie Belle can put the collar back on with a simple wale."

The changeling shivered. She groaned. Green flames consumed her. Queen Chrysalis assumed the form of a slender mare. "Not exactly like I can go trotting around in my real form. You get rid of King Sombra and his side mare, and I will call off my changelings. Agreed?"

"No deal. You're just going to betray us." Sweetie Belle said, inhaling. "Apple Bloom, why'd you stop me?"

"Ah don't like this anymore than Princess Cadence likes it. Still, we ain't got no choice here. We'll need all the help we can get to find the others, stop King Sombra, and turn Nightmare Star back into Princess Celestia." Apple Bloom said. She faced the mare in front of her, "Ya betray us even once, Sweetie Belle can put that collar back on ya tighter than a pony's tongue caught in a vice gripe. Got it."

The diguised mare extended her hoof out with the Cutie Mark Crusaders shaking it.

"The deal is struck. Let us make haste while we still have our luck." Zecora said.

Princess Cadence glanced at Queen Chrysalis one last time before she turned towards Zecora, floating Aegis onto her back. "We'll head to the Crystal Kingdom. Bring the others there. We can setup a safe place to plan out our assault."

Loyalty

*** *** ***

"How precious. Those three look so adorable," A mare said before she waved her hoof at the three ponies inside the basked. The equine smiled at the mare who sat near the basket. After a final wave, the earth pony mare walked along the train car's carpet to her seat.

Trees whizzed by the window. A clear day remained as the sun hung overhead, still frozen at its apex in the sky. Ponies went about their business in an attempt to ignore the events of the two nightless days.

"I swear I'll get you for this, bug --" Scootaloo said, a pacifier shoved into her mouth. Her eyes locked onto the mare in front of her who chuckled in return. "..."

The mare snickered to herself. She rocked the basket in front of her back and forth. A slight grin came across her face. Her hoof waved at the passengers. She leaned in closer to the ponies inside, "Remember you little foals, my name is Primrose. Unless you want to fail, we have to work together."

Apple Bloom shook her head as she lay inside the basket with Scootaloo to her left and Sweetie Belle to her right. She tugged on her small cloth cap and drew the strings taut. "How embarrassin'. If Diamond Tiara finds out we did this, we'll be the laughin' stock of Ponyville. We better reach our destination quick."

"Embarrassing? How about me? Rarity is going to kill me when she finds out I took her bit purse to pay for this trip." Sweetie Belle said.

An elderly stallion tapped a gentle cloth against his head, drying the sweat that came from his forehead. Fillies and their chaperone walked by in matching one piece swimsuits. Another short statured filly galloped behind the group with a pool toy in her mouth.

The heavy metal train wheels screeched against the metal track as the locomotive rounded a curb. The bright sunlight reflected off the train car windows. Outside, a small dot grew in the distant horizon. Clouds hung overhead. Bolts of lightning zapped a tall building with a large metal sphere on top.

A clinking sound resonated in the ears of the train car passengers as rain pelted against it. One pony groaned before she shoved two wads of cotton from her pillow into her ears, and then gave a delighted smirk.

"What's up with Las Pegasus? I thought this was the place of 'lights' and stuff." Scootaloo said in a hushed tone. She gazed out the window. Her eyes widened. "Rainbow Dash. She's up there."

"Quiet you little -- I mean... does my little foal need some milk." the disguised changeling said to the three fillies. She waved at the mare and filly who walked by her and the basket. "You'll ruin everything if you don't keep your little mouths shut. Also, will you remind me as to why we went after this pony first? Shouldn't we just go after 'Princess' Twilight Sparkle and be done with it?"

Scootaloo booped Queen Chrysalis on her nose before letting out a slight giggle. She snickered, along with her friends as the deposed ruler blushed.

"I will destroy you when this is done." The disguised changeling said.

"Don't forget. Sweetie Belle can put that collar back on ya, if ya decide to betray us." Apple Bloom said in a hushed voice.

"Next Stop! Las Pegasus!" The conductor said in a boisterous tone. The stallion walked down the green carpet. He repeated his statement in each train car that he entered.

*** *** ***

The wind howled. Rain poured into the streets. Dark clouds hung overhead with bolts of lightning striking the tallest tower in Las Pegasus while the rain glistened in the dim light of the ornate lamps placed along the street. Ponies galloped by, pushing past one another.

Inside the train station, three sets of curious eyes glanced around the area from the safety of the basket. One set of eyes widened, its owner pointing her hoof towards a wall.

Sweetie Belle placed both hooves over her mouth. Her eyes gazed at the wanted posters in front of her.

"Wanted for subterfuge and crimes against King Sombra. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Aegis are hereby charged as enemies of the state. 10,000 Bit Reward per Filly. 50,000 bit bonus offered for all four at once."

"Ma'am?" A stallion said as he stood behind a counter.

"I'm sorry. My little ones are just so fascinated with Las Pegasus. O my, pardon me. My name is Primrose." Queen Chrysalis said, disguising her voice. She batted her eyelashes at the stallion. "Sorry, this rain is just so dreadful. Could you help us out."

The stallion smiled at the mare. "I'd clear it up, but we need the clouds and rain to keep things cool around here. We've got our own, earmarked air conditioner, or so the higher ups have said."

"And who are these 'higher-ups' that you speak of?" Primrose said, leaning closer to the guard.

The guard's eyes flashed red. He snorted at her. "None of your business, you grey old mare. Get outta here before I have you thrown in jail."

"But why throw me in jail? I'm just asking questions. My. Little. Stallion." The disguised changeling said.

"Keep it up, and it'll make it easier for me to throw you in jail ya old coot." The guard said.

The disguised changeling gritted her teeth. She yelped. Queen Chrysalis looked over to see Apple Bloom grabbing onto her long mane, giving a watery eyed look.

"You've upset my child, you rude stallion. Hmph," she said before trotting off. Queen Chrysalis leaned in close, "Do that again, and I'll turn you in myself and face the consequences. I'm not playing mommy here."

"You make such a great 'mom,' Primrose. " Scootaloo said, ending with a high pitched squeal.

"You're getting way too into this," Sweetie Belle said in a hushed tone.

"Might as well have some fun while we're at it." Scootaloo said.

Queen Chrysalis placed a firm hoof on her forehead, dragging it down to her lips. She pushed open the doors to the train station. Underneath the glass canopy, the group looked up to the heavy rains. Bolts of lightning continued to rocket forth from the sky and strike the metal orb. The group let out a sigh as ponies pushed passed one another, filing into a casino.

Scootaloo pointed towards the sky just as a rainbow like streak flew by. Her eyes lit up, but found herself restrained by Apple Bloom. The pegasus filly placed her hooves together, pleading with her friend. In the end, she nodded and remained still in the basket.

Minutes ticked by as the disguised changeling pushed the basket forward.

Inside Casino De Pinion, Queen Chrysalis crept towards the counter. She shivered while the water dripped from her soaked wings.

"You poor thing," the attendant said. She levitated several towels toward the drenched changeling. "This rain is just horrible."

"I'm Primrose, and these are my little ones. We were looking for a room to stay the night in." The disguised changeling said. She levitated several bits out of the bag beneath the basket. "Twenty bits should do it."

"I'm sorry, but just for a regular room we need one hundred bits." the attendant said.

"I think thirty bits will suffice," Primrose said, her eyes glowing in a soft green light. "We'll take the VIP room."

The attendant smiled. She nodded, and a set of keys floated toward the disguised changeling. In a calm voice the mare said to the group, "Enjoy your stay at Casino De Pinion."

*** *** ***

"Geez Apple Bloom, when's the last time you took a bath." Scootaloo said, waving a hoof in front of her face.

"We're not on holiday you little foals." The disguised changeling said. Her eyes darted about in the hallway before placing the key in the lock. She wheeled the basket inside, and gave the hallway one last peek. "I got the VIP room so we won't be bothered."

Sweetie Belle hopped out of the basket, followed by her two friends. She stretched her hooves then removed her bonnet. The filly glanced at Queen Chrysalis, "What happened down there anyway? Was that some kind of spell?"

"I have my own secrets, but let's say that the attendant down stairs knows better than to cross me." Queen Chrysalis said.

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo dried off near the fire, Queen Chrysalis soon sitting beside them. After a few moments, the deposed changeling ruler levitated a towel from the bathroom and placed it around herself. Apple Bloom flopped onto the bed, her yawn resonating throughout the room. Another log thrown on the fire, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo joined their friend.

In a disconcerted tone, Apple Bloom said, "I guess we've got our work cut out for us. Where's Chrysalis?"

"Bubble Bath." Sweetie Belle said, ending with a sigh. She pointed towards the bathroom where a slight song came from. "And she's the one who said 'we're not on holiday.'"

Apple Bloom snickered to herself before she leapt off the bed. She walked toward the large basket. From underneath it, she pulled out the map gifted to her by Zecora. Her eyes scanned each portion of the map after unfurling it onto the glass table near the sofa. Several pops and cracks came from the fire as she continued to scrutinize the map.

"It ain't good, crusaders. Looks like Nightmare Star sent them all over Equestria. I'm just glad Zecora put some kind of spell on the map to show us whose cutie marks we're dealin with right now." Apple Bloom said. Several glowing symbols hovered above the map of Equestria. The filly touched the lightning cloud mark, and the magical map zoomed in on Las Pegasus. After a sigh, Apple Bloom furled the object up and placed it back into the bag underneath the basket. She hung her head. The filly crept toward the bed, laid down, and rested her head on top of her hooves. Her hoof grasped the tissue levitated towards her by Sweetie Belle. "Thanks. Ah just... wish Ah knew what we were supposed to do right now. How are three fillies supposed to take care of a mess this big?"

Scootaloo stood up. She ripped the sheets off the bed with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle rolling onto the shag carpet. Her hooves tied the two ends around her neck, and she jumped off the bed. The filly pointed a stern hoof towards her friend, "We don't give in. We don't give up. We never quit. We're the Cutie Mark Crusaders!"

"Will you idiots knock it off and let me enjoy a small bit of luxury." Queen Chrysalis said.

A knock reverberated in the room. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle bolted underneath the bed. The door to the bathroom opened. Queen Chrysalis assumed her pegasus form, wrapping a towel around her body. She opened the door, glanced outside, and resumed her previous form.

"I'm going back to my bath. You three can deal with Luminescence." Queen Chrysalis said, the door closing to the bathroom.

"Luminescence?" The three fillies said.

The attendant from downstairs poked her head underneath the bed. Green Flames erupted around her. In front of the three fillies stood a slender changeling just shy of Queen Chrysalis's height. The mare bowed to Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo before resuming her prior form.

"My Queen?" Luminescence said.

"Talk to them." Queen Chrysalis said.

Luminescence looked at the three fillies, and then back to the bathroom. She bowed at the door then turned towards the small group.

"Weird. I thought the only changeling to look like Chrysy was Chrysy." Scootaloo said.

The changeling in front of the fillies placed a quick hoof over her mouth. Two green eyes peered through the crack of the bathroom before the door closed.

"Chrysy," Luminescence snickered.

"We don't mind if you want to be a changeling right now." Apple Bloom said.

"Thank you. It takes quite a bit of energy to disguise ourselves. My husband is the only one to know of my true form beyond Queen Chrysalis." The changeling said, assuming her real form. She towered above the fillies. Luminescence glanced into the hallway, and then locked the door. Her eyes relaxed as they met the three fillies in front of her. "'Sweetie Belle' was it? I'm sorry, but I don't want to talk about him. He's a reclusive stallion, and I fear if his name were to be divulged, it would cause us problems. Besides, we need to get down to business. The longer I stay, the more I'll arouse the manager's suspicions."

Apple Bloom nodded to Luminescence. She pulled the map out of the basket and unfurled it on the table. "Rarity is in Appleloosa; Applejack is in Manehatten; Pinkie Pie is in Baltimare; Fluttershy is in Rainbow Falls; and it looks like Rainbow Dash is here in Las Pegasus."

"What about Twilight?" Sweetie Belle said.

"I'm not sure. The map shows her cutie mark popping up all over the place. Twilight might teleporting all over Equestria trying to find us and her friends." Apple Bloom said. She turned towards the changeling near the table, "Anyways, Lu-min-ess-in-since?"

"You can shorten it to Lumi." The changeling said.

"Ok, Lumi." Apple Bloom smiled. She looked at Queen Chrysalis who stepped out of the bathroom, and then shook her head. The filly placed her hoof over Rainbow Dash's cutie mark, and a small map of the city appeared. The section grew larger with the athletic pony's emblem hovering over it.

Luminescence rubbed a misshapen hoof under her chin, and then squinted at the map. The changeling stood up. "Looks like your friend might be in the Starlight, Starbright hotel. It's run by the sister of my boss."

The small group chatted with one another while Queen Chrysalis relaxed on the sofa. The changeling queen sipped on some tea brought in with the foodcart by Luminescence. Tense moments passed with the discussion going back and forth. A final sigh escaped the Luminescence's lips.

"I will pull what strings I can to get all of you into the hotel, along with our ruler. I'm sorry I cannot assist you any further, but, as said, I do not want to place my husband in jeopardy." Luminescence said. She bowed to Queen Chrysalis. The changeling stopped as the deposed changeling ruler floated over towards her. Hushed words followed, and then ceased. Luminescence resumed her earth pony form. "Once I obtain the tickets for the show, they will be sent to you immediately."

Scootaloo grinned at the disguised changeling before she left. Sweetie Belle cocked her head at Queen Chrysalis who stared at her in return.

"Is she broken?" Queen Chrysalis said.

"Why did Luminescence thank you." Sweetie Belle said.

Queen Chrysalis crept toward the sofa. She gazed out the window. Her slight smile reflected off the glass window as she gazed at the dim lights below that illuminated the city. In a saddened tone, the deposed changeling ruler sighed before she turned toward the three fillies. "Appearance are not always what they appear to be," Queen Chrysalis lowered her head into her hooves, "My changeling, how you have grown."

Scootaloo crept forward, "Are you crying?"

"Come closer and find out." Queen Chrysalis said as she raised her head, smirking at the filly. Her eyes widened. The changeling yawned. "Stupid bubble baths relax me too much. Do not forget our bargain you three nuisances. I assist you in retrieving those six ponies, and all of you will take care of King Sombra, Nightmare Moon, and their lackies while returning my changelings to me."

Queen Chrysalis yawned a second time. She took a final sip of tea before placing the cup back onto the saucer. Her eyes crept open and closed several times before she rested her head on top of her misshapen hooves.

The fire crackled in the fireplace. The lights inside the room went dim. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo grabbed their spots on the bed.

"Better get some sleep while we can. I have a bad feeling about this mission." Scootaloo said. Her tired eyes glanced at the small clock on the drawer near the bed. "I'll just rest... for a. Little Bit."

The clock's short hand moved forward four notches before a heavy knock came to the front door. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Queen Chrysalis opened their eyes. The three fillies darted underneath the bed while the changeling assumed her disguise. Tense moments ticked by before the door opened. Rain landed on the windows outside, lightning flashing.

"Do you have the tickets?" Queen Chrysalis said, breathing a sigh of relief. She grabbed the tickets, nodded to Luminescence, and then closed the door. "Ok. We have the tickets for the show. Luminescence says these will get us access to the hallway that leads to the roof."

"Why not just fly up?" Scootaloo said. Three sets of eyes turned towards the filly before she placed a firm hoof over her forehead. "Right, right. If we get seen, we get caught. Did that stupid map say exactly where Rainbow Dash is in that place?"

Apple Bloom pulled out the map, skimming over each part. "Yea, it looks like the roof top, but it's weird."

"Enough. The longer we wait, the stronger King Sombra gets." Queen Chrysalis said. She pointed towards the basket, receiving three groans from the fillies before the hopped inside. "I don't enjoy this any more than you do."

"Why are you smiling then?" Scootaloo said.

"I don't enjoy it, but I didn't say anything about it not being amusing." Queen Chrysalis snickered. She glanced around the room, and then went into the hallway. The wheels on the basket dug into the carpet. Her slight smile reflected off Luminescence's eyes when she reached the entrance. She waved a hoof at the attendant, giving a final nod. After speaking in a few inaudible clicks, Queen Chrysalis faced the doors to the hotel. "Let's go see a show," she let out a quiet groan, "my little ones."

With the attendant giving a final nod to the disguised pony, she bid the group goodbye and good luck before they entered into the pouring rain.

*** *** ***

Quick hooves darted down the street. The basket's wheels groaned and whined in the rain. A sparkling sign came into view. The star on the sign displayed a spotlight in the middle that brightened the pathway into the hotel.

Once inside, Queen Chrysalis looked about. She rolled the basket towards the elevator. The disguised changeling batted her eyes at the stallion sitting in the corner.

"Floor fifteen. Watch your step," The stallion said, tipping his hat to the disguised pony.

Several tables littered the area. Candle light flickered, illuminating the stallions and mares near the tables. Ponies whistled and cheered at the mare on stage. A mare in a skirt trotted by each table where she collected several bits, placing drinks on the table. The band in the corner continued to play.

"Tickets?" A pony said, glaring at the disguised changeling. He lowered his glasses, and then pushed them against his face. The stallion nodded, and his hoof pulled on the curtain. "Enjoy the show."

"I will." The disguised changeling ruler said, blowing a kiss towards the stallion who remained unphased. She glanced around the small hallway. "Ok, it's clear. The maintenance area is over here with the elevator."

The group peered around the corner. They crept forward and proceeded inside, surreptitiously moving by a sleeping old pony with a janitor's cap on. Scootaloo fidgeted inside the elevator, eliciting several strange gazes from the others around her.

The elevator dinged. The doors opened.

"Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo yelled as she darted outside into the rain storm. Her eyes darted about. She grinned. "Rainbow Dash!"

"Squirt?" The athletic pony said before she floated to the ground. A slight tear crawled down her cheek before she pushed the filly away. Rainbow Dash hung her head, rain dripping off her rainbow colored mane. "Why did you come after a failure like me?"

"What do you ya mean why? It's what you would have done for me." Scootaloo said, gazing at the pony in front of her. "Come on, we gotta get the others back together. We have to stop King Sombra and Nightmare Star."

"I failed ya, kid. Nightmare Star... she's too much for any of us." Rainbow Dash said. She looked away from Scootaloo, turning away from the group. "I thought egghead was full of horse-feathers when she said some nonsense about an 'unstoppable' thing meeting an 'immovable' item, or whatever it's called. Now I see what she was talking above. Nightmare Star is a force of nature that can't be stopped."

Scootaloo leapt toward Rainbow Dash, pushing her against the roof. "That's not the pony I look up to. Who are you!"

"Deal with it, squirt. I failed. You better find a safe hiding spot." Rainbow Dash said. She glanced at the sky above her, "Now I see what Princess Luna was talking about."

Apple Bloom pulled Scootaloo away. She materialized her armor. Her ethereal shield phased through Rainbow Dash, and then dissipated. "Thought it might have what happened to Zecora, but ah was wrong. You're just a coward. Should have gone with Fluttershy over you. She'll take care of Nightmare Star with one hoof tied behind her back."

"Whatever, I got work to do anyways. This city won't stay cool without me." Rainbow Dash said.

"And you want to join the wonderbolts. They won't let cowards in like you. I bet you can't even do a Sonic Rainboom anymore." Sweetie Belle said as she stepped forward.

"Enough." Scootaloo said, materializing her armor. She glanced over her shoulder towards her friends, and then approached Rainbow Dash. The rain dripped from her mane. Her strong hoof pressed against Rainbow Dash, "I challenge you to a race. You win, we'll leave you alone and never bother you again."

"And if you win?" Rainbow Dash said, a faint bit of light coming from her cutie mark. "What do you win if I lose. If that could even happen."

"You come with us, but you also have to forfeit all your signed, limited edition Daring Doo books." Scootaloo said. Her ethereal wing shot out. She steadied herself, "You gonna wuss out on me?"

Rainbow Dash furrowed her brow. "Just start the timer. I'll race around this city in ten seconds flat."

Apple Bloom outlined the rules, once around the outer circle of Las Pegasus and back to the tower. She raised her hoof. It barely neared the wet roof beneath her before the two ponies took off, leaving a crest of water behind them.

"I won't go easy on you, squirt!" Rainbow Dash said, pulling into the lead. She glanced behind her and smile, and then her jaw dropped. "What!"

"You call this fast?! I call it a stroll." Scootaloo said, powering forward.

The two ponies raced neck and neck. Rainbow Dash rose into the air. She raced forward. Both equines continued their battle with buildings and lights flying by. They whipped by a metal tower, a lightning bolt striking it. The final turn came.

"Help!" Scootaloo said thunderous bolt of lightning struck a nearby lightning rod. Her armor vanished. She fell to the ground. The filly closed her eyes. In a quiet voice she said, "Rainbow Dash..."

The athletic pony stopped. Rainbow Dash's eyes brightened. Her cutie mark flashed in a brilliant light. She rocketed toward the ground, scooped up Scootaloo, and flew toward the Starlight, Starbright hotel rooftop. She held the filly in her hooves while she sat on wet roof.

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle galloped toward their friend. Scootaloo gave a heavy cough to her idol who smiled in return.

"I failed ya for a second time, squirt. I'm such an idiot. Racing around in a storm like this is something even the Wonderbolts are told to never do." Rainbow Dash said. She hung her head, but raised it to see Scootaloo placing a gentle hoof on her cheek. "Sorry."

"Who won?" Scootaloo said.

"Doesn't matter. Just glad my friend is safe." Rainbow Dash said. She wrapped her hooves around the filly that leapt at her. "Ok squirt, enough mushy stuff."

The brief moment was cut short with several beams of light peeking through the clouds. Behind the group, the elevator doors opened. A short statured mare trotted towards the athletic pony and pointed a swift hoof at the clouds.

"You're a pegasus, aren't ya. Do it yourself!" Rainbow Dash said, ripping off her jacket then flinging it towards the mayor. "Ok, squirt. We're we headed?"

The mayor removed the jacket. Her eyes flashed in a deep red color before she spoke in a heavy, growling voice that overshadowed the rain. "I see my precious star is flawed. Whatever. You little foals can enjoy your reprieve. Just remember your faces are known, and my seeds are flourishing throughout your once 'precious,' peaceful land."

Rainbow Dash pointed a swift hoof at the pony, "Bring it! We'll snuff out a star if we have to keep Equestria safe you poor excuse for a shadow."

"And what of you, my faithful servant? Have you turned against me?" The mayor of Las Pegasus said before she went silent.

"Little excessive there, Chrysalis." Rainbow Dash said.

"I put her to sleep. Besides, I'm sick of listening to that stallion's prattle." Queen Chrysalis said.

With the unconscious mayor dragged inside the elevator, Rainbow Dash hit the button and darted back outside.

Queen Chrysalis waved her hoof at the group, and then pointed it at the casino down the street. After the group nodded to her, the changeling resumed her disguise.

*** *** ***

"So. Let me get this straight. You three are... 'with' bug breath? You do remember she tried to take away Twilight's brother and imprisoned Princess Cadence." Rainbow Dash said.

"Ain't got no choice. It's not like we can roam around without causing suspicion." Apple Bloom said.

"And now she's enjoying a bubble bath? This is going to be one looonnngggg day." Rainbow Dash said, placing a firm hoof on her forehead then sliding it down. She gazed out the window to see small beams of light growing as the sun's rays penetrated the protection of the clouds. "What was I thinking? Those clouds will just make thing ten times worse," Rainbow Dash sighed then looked toward the group, "but we have bigger issues. Where are we going to next?"

Apple Bloom pulled out the map. She glanced over each section of Equestria. The filly placed her hoof over Rarity's cutie mark.

Sweetie Belle nodded to her friend, mouthing a quiet "thank you" to her. "We'll need to get my big sis next."

"With Twilight's cutie mark bouncing all over the map, I guess we have to go for the closest one. Still, why Rarity?" Rainbow Dash said. She looked at Scootaloo who sat beside her. "Ok, ok. You three are runnin the show here. Once queen bug breath finishes her bath, we'll hit the -- bahahaha!!"

"It's not funny." Scootaloo said as she went toward the basket. "Not like we had a choice in the matter."

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle laughed at Scootaloo, alongside Rainbow Dash. The door to the bathroom cracked open before it closed just as silently.

"My queen, why not join in their revelry." Luminescence said. She placed a cup of tea on the table near the bath. "From the bottom of my heart, I'm --"

"No. Do not speak of it. You know my ruling." Queen Chrysalis said as she sunk into the tub. She glanced over at the changeling near her side, watching the misshapen pony's tears hit the ground. "Do you regret it, my subject?"

Luminescence shook her head. "Every day that goes by, it fills me with more than I could have hoped for in this world when I made that choice. Each day is a blessing."

"Then there is nothing to speak of, and you know your punishment." Queen Chrysalis said.

The changeling queen rinsed herself off and hopped out of the tub. She opened the door and placed a hoof over her mouth. Her eyes watched Scootaloo dart around the room, terrorized by Rainbow Dash.

"Thanks for all the help, Luminescence. We really appreciate it." Apple Bloom said, receiving a smile in return. She cleared her throat. "Ok, we'll rest up for a bit and try to catch the next train out of here to Appleloosa and nab Rarity."

Rainbow Dash nodded to the group. "I said I would hang back, but no risky stuff like flying in thunderstorms. The others would have my flank."

"Deal." Scootaloo said.

As the group slumbered, Queen Chrysalis gazed out the window of Las Pegasus towards the North. The lights below reflected off her green eyes. She turned toward the group, and then rested her head on top of her misshapen hooves. A tear crawled down her cheek, "How can they be so jovial? It sickens me."

Generous Magic

*** *** ***

The train rocketed down the turn, sparks spewing forth from its heavy metal wheels. It rounded the corner and proceeded through a dark tunnel. As the locomotive exited the tunnel, a barren wasteland existed outside the train car with rocks and cacti passing by the windows from time-to-time. One colt adjusted his hat, and then pointed outside the window towards a heard of buffalo.

Inside the train car, several ponies walked along the green carpet. One stallion nodded towards the two ponies and the basket in between them before he adjusted his hat. He walked by the group and sat in the seat towards the train car door.

"This sucks." Rainbow Dash said, tugging on her outfit. "Why do I have to go around dressed like this?"

"Your choice. You either get in the suitcase or that 'adorable' outfit." The disguised changeling said. She snickered at the pony in front of her struggling in the opulent dress. "We've got to get this 'Rarity' pony quickly. There's something off."

Adjacent the group, a mare tapped a gentle hoof against her forehead, wiping the beads of sweat from her brow. She pulled out a newspaper. The paper's quick "pop" resonated in the ponies' ears when she unfurled it. The earth pony mare's eyes skimmed over each section. Soon, the pony faced an empty seat. She glared at the pony in the seat on the other side of the carpet, her eyes flashing red for a second. The mare yanked the paper away, huffed, and returned to her seat.

Rainbow Dash gave a sheepish grin to the pony. She leaned in close to the basket. "Things just got a whole lot worse. We're plastered all over the paper."

"Next stop, Appleloosa!" The conductor said in a boisterous tone as he traveled down the green carpet. The door to next train car slammed shut behind him.

Curious eyes peered out the window to an old western town that came into view. Miniature dust tornados swirled about while tumble weeds rolled across the road. Mares, fillies, colts, and stallion went about their business, dressed in western attire.

As the train came to an abrupt stop, Apple Bloom fell out of the basket. She darted underneath the seat. Several ponies trotted up it.

"It's alright. She just took a tumble." The disguised changeling said. She latched onto Apple Bloom and hurriedly placed her in the basket. Her deep grin reflected off the eyes of the ponies near her. "No need to worry, she's a tough little... pony."

Two stallions tipped their hat to unicorn with three mares smiling at her. Rainbow Dash leaned in close. She checked on Apple Bloom, and then looked about the car.

Out in the dusty town, the deposed changeling ruler wiped the sweat from her forehead as Rainbow Dash pushed the basket. Her eyes glanced around the train station, and then fixated on a small paper box against the back wall. She trotted inside. Queen Chrysalis tapped her hoof against her chin before she motioned towards the others. In a hushed voice she said to the others, "I guess we don't have too far to travel in order to find Rarity."

"Appleloosa Apple Express: Thief caught red hoofed with stolen diamond vest of Buckaroo Blitz. Trial tomorrow...."

Sweetie Belle ran a hoof down her forehead before she turned toward Rainbow Dash, receiving a firm nod in return. The filly looked toward the changeling at her side. "Got any of your 'guides' here in Appleloosa?"

"Do you believe I would send one of my trained informants to some dustbowl hick town." Queen Chrysalis said.

"Watch it." Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo said in unison. The trio pointed their hooves at the disguised pony.

Queen Chrysalis pushed the cart forward with her magic, Rainbow Dash trotting behind her. The group backed away just as a stagecoach zoomed by. Tumbleweeds blew down the street as ponies went about their business. The calm demeanor shifted as one stallion slammed his hoof into the ground, and then pointed it at the mare in front of him. Both ponies screamed and yelled at each other, their eyes flashing red.

Rainbow Dash shielded her face with her hoof as the two ponies turned towards the group. She lowered her hoof. The athletic pony proceeded behind Queen Chrysalis and the basket towards the saloon across the street.

Apple Bloom's eyes widened. She pulled the blanket over her as the group neared the counter. In a hushed tone she said, "Quick. Get him away. Braeburn's such a loud mouth. He'll ruin everything."

"Well now, ain't you three as cute as a puppy dog with a lollipop." The stallion said. He reached into his pocket, "Got some suckers here in my vest pocket."

"No sweets." Rainbow Dash said, disguising her voice.

"Well ma'am. Ah don't know about you, but fillies of all ages just love something sweet. One little bite won't hurt." Braeburn said.

Queen Chrysalis batted her eyes. The stallion in front of her gave a hearty smile towards her. He offered up a treat, but he soon placed it back into his pocket.

"We need a room. I'm sad to say our funds are rather low. Do you know of a place that can take us for ten bits?" Queen Chrysalis said.

Braeburn's eyes flashed for a second. He snarled at the two ponies and the basket, "Cheapskates! Tryin' ta pay ten bits for a room. It's folks like you that'll ruin this here good town, wantin' somethin' for nothin'. Best attend to ya'lls business and 'get out!'"

The stallion stormed off. Rainbow Dash shrugged at Queen Chrysalis who sighed in return.

"You ok, Apple Bloom?" Rainbow Dash said as she leaned into the basket.

Apple Bloom remained silent as the group proceeded down the street towards the inn. She hopped out of the basket after the basket entered the room. A shaky hoof rubbed against her watery eyes while she sat on the wooden floor. "It's wrong. Braeburn is actin' just like Granny and Big Mac."

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle sat by their friend while Queen Chrysalis stood watch near the window.

"What do ya mean?" Rainbow Dash said.

Scootaloo pulled Rainbow Dash aside. She glanced towards Apple Bloom then faced her mentor. "When we first came up with the plan, we had to borrow some stuff from Sweet Apple Acres. Chrysalis disguised herself while the rest of us hide in the barn outside. Big Mac and Granny Smith were standing outside in the orchard. They seemed fine, but something just 'happened' and both of them started fighting. It got to Apple Bloom to see those two fighting with each other. I mean really bad fighting."

"I'm not good with this stuff, but, I promise, I'll help to fix things, Apple Bloom." Rainbow Dash said. She patted the earth pony filly on the back before approaching the window. "We can break Rarity out of prison. I mean that stupid shadow knows what's going on."

Apple Bloom blew her nose. She threw away the tissue. With the map unfurled from underneath the basket, her hoof tapped against Rarity's cutie mark. Nervous minutes ticked by as the filly examined the map.

The group turned away from the map. They huddled near the window. Two stallions butted heads while three mares lashed out at one another. The sheriff snarled at the group, placing all of them in cuffs then leading them away.

Queen Chrysalis's shook her head. "Here I respected your kind for its resolve. It looks like King Sombra's essence is spreading."

"You started this," Apple Bloom pointed a swift hoof at Queen Chrysalis. She took a deep breath. She turned away from the deposed changeling ruler. "You --"

"Apple Bloom," Rainbow Dash sat in front of the filly, "we can't give in to King Sombra. That's what we wants. We'll succeed. Look, if it weren't for you three I would still be back in Las Pegasus. I'm as stubborn as they come."

The earth pony filly looked at her friends. She smiled then glanced behind towards Queen Chrysalis. "Sorry. We have to work together, but Ah'm not about to forgive you for what ya did."

"Like I need forgiveness from a filly. Still, apology accepted." Queen Chrysalis said. The disguised changeling sat down. Her stern eyes scanned the street. She left the room, nabbed a paper, and came back to the room. "Let's see what we are dealing with first. If we just 'break' your friend out of prison it will cause undue attention. We must act with stealth and caution."

Rainbow Dash groaned. She let out a quick "fine" to the group before glancing over the paper. Her eyes lit up. "Wait. We can do what Daring Doo did in her newest book."

"Daring Doo?" Queen Chrysalis said.

"Yea. She had to retrieve the idol of the Dullahan from the Black Moore swamp." Rainbow Dash said, ending with a grin. She rolled her eyes. She cleared her throat. "Well -- anyways, there was this judge who accused her friend of stealing from the town. Daring Doo disguised herself as the judge, fooled the ponies, and had her friend released."

"You expect me to disguise myself as a pony I've never seen and have Rarity released?" Queen Chrysalis said.

Scootaloo shook her head. "No. Says right here that Judge Gavel is pre-side-ing over the case. We just have to ask around, find the judge, and have you take the pony's place. It'll be a synch."

"Cuilibet fatuo placet sua calvamind," Queen Chrysalis said in a whispered tone.

"What?" Rainbow Dash said.

"Nothing." Queen Chrysalis said.

With the map in front of them and the paper off to the side, the group chatted amongst themselves in quiet, hushed voices. Time ticked by. A quick "ok" resonated amongst them.

*** *** ***

"It's time to shut yer blinds!" The sheriff said as he walked down open street. His eyes glanced from building to building, witnessing the building's occupants close the windows then shutting the blinds. He continued the journey through the town.

The cutie mark crusaders, Rainbow Dash, and Queen Chrysalis listened to the windows slamming shut. They nodded to each other and crept outside where Rainbow Dash zipped onto the hotel's roof. The athletic pony flew back down. She pointed her hoof at a building in the distance.

Queen Chrysalis looked about. She shifted her form into a pegasus. The changeling latched onto Apple Bloom with Rainbow Dash grabbing Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.

"You two need to go on a diet." Rainbow Dash said in a hushed tone.

"Rude." Sweetie Belle said.

The group scanned the streets. They moved surreptitiously from rooftop to rooftop, stopping to rest for a second between each movement.

In front of them stood the courthouse. One window remained open with its blinds up. A mare trotted by the open window in full court dress, the shiny black dress reflecting the sunlight. The pony glanced out the window. She pulled back, smirked, and closed the window. Her hoof pressed against the lock before it reached for the string to the blinds.

"I knew something was wrong." Queen Chrysalis whispered to the group. She latched onto Apple Bloom and darted towards the court rooftop, followed by the others. The changeling assumed her real form and undid the latch on the other side of the door. Inside with the others behind her, she marched towards the judge. With her horn aglow in a fierce green light, Queen Chrysalis emitted several hisses and clicks. Her eyes glowed in a fierce light. "Do it. Do it now or I will reveal you to the town myself, regardless of the consequences."

Judge Gavel squirmed. She snarled at the changeling before her hooves went limp. "As you wish, my queen."

A green flame erupted in front of the group. The small statured changeling that now stood in front of the group turned away.

"Crypsis," Queen Chrysalis towered above the changeling. Her eyes maintained their fierce fiery green glow as she bared her fangs at the changeling in front of her. She looked at Apple Bloom, and then relaxed. In a hushed tone, Queen Chrysalis said, "Is that disgusting king controlling you? Or did you decide to go out on your own since you couldn't usurp me?"

"My ruler, I would never usurp you. It's not possible for you to be dethroned." Crypsis said, her body trembling.

"Fifteen times you attempted to rally the changelings of 'my' hive against me. They were amusing attempts at first, something to roust me out of that boredom. That fifteenth time, you crossed the line." Queen Chrysalis said.

Crypsis stood up. She pointed a hoof at the changeling ruler, "You crossed the line with that order to assault the kingdom of Equestria and its capital the day of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza's wedding. How many of our --"

"Silence! I knew the risks when I sought food for my subjects. You didn't care." Queen Chrysalis said. Her eyes resumed their fiery glow. She peered down at the changeling that quivered near her hooves. "Thievery. Subterfuge. Disobedience. You cared nothing for your fellow changeling. If we were in the hive, I would have you de-winged, forced to work with the rest of the garbage."

"But we aren't. These stupid ponies have no idea who I am. Their affection towards the so-called 'law' I uphold has nourished me." Crypsis said. The changeling fell onto her back, restrained by Queen Chrysalis. "What are you going to do to me?"

Queen Chrysalis licked her jowls. She illuminated her horn. "One thing you pride yourself on is that silver tongue of yours."

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Rainbow Dash turned away. A bright flash of light illuminated the room. Two firm knocks came from the door. Queen Chrysalis assumed Judge Gavel's form. She stepped outside.

Rainbow Dash leapt towards Crypsis, Sweetie Belle helping to restrain the changeling. The group's ears perked up as muffled voices came from behind the door. Silence came. The door opened.

"..." Crypsis opened her mouth. Her eyes widened. The changeling placed her hooves over her mouth before pressing against her neck. She relented and emitted two swift buzzes with her wings before going limp.

The disguised changeling walked back in and closed the door. She faced the others, giving a silent nod.

Another knock came to the door. A unicorn hung her head as she came inside. The pony stopped then closed the door behind her. "You wanted to see me, your honor."

"Sis?" Sweetie Belle said, fighting to hold back her tears.

"Sweetie Belle," Rarity said as she latched onto the filly that hugged her tightly. She grinned at Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo. "How did you get here?"

"We can reminisce about all of this later." Queen Chrysalis said in her disguised form. She turned towards Rainbow Dash and pointed towards the door leading to the roof. As the now empty room stood silent, the ponies escorted to the roof by the athletic pony, Queen Chrysalis assumed her normal form. Her stature towered over the changeling in front of her. She leaned in, "I would tell you to remain silent, but we both know that won't be a problem."

Crypsis groaned, and then slammed her hoof into the floorboard. Queen Chrysalis smirked at the changeling before she made her way onto the roof and back towards the inn room.

*** *** ***

Rarity recanted her tale, several times, to the group in front of her while she combed her mane. The unicorn fluffed the hairs on her head. "That prison was so dreadful. Dust everywhere. Grime. It was horrible."

Sweetie Belle's jaw dropped. Her eyes widened. "You did steal the diamond vest."

"No, Sweetie Belle. A lady doesn't steal. She borrows." Rarity said. She looked towards Rainbow Dash, "And I suppose you have a little 'lesson,' for me as well?"

Rainbow Dash shook her head. She sat near Scootaloo while Sweetie Belle sat near Rarity. Queen Chrysalis remained vigilant at the window. Apple Bloom pulled out the map and unfurled it on the table. Her eyes darted from cutie mark to cutie mark. Her sigh echoed in the small room with the others turning towards her.

Apple Bloom turned away from the group. She joined Queen Chrysalis at the window and gazed towards the empty, dusty street below. "Ah want to get mah big sis, but Ah know it can't happen right now. We gotta get to --"

"Apple Bloom, Twilight's cutie mark. It's in Appleloosa." Scootaloo said. She touched her hoof to the cutie mark. The filly darted towards the window, and then held a hoof up to her eyes. "Bright."

"Twilight!" Apple Bloom yelled. She waved towards the pony. Two brief seconds passed. The inn room erupted in the same brilliant flash of light. "What are ya doin?"

"Trying to find my friends... so I can say I'm sorry." Twilight said, her ears lowering. Her hooves gave way. She collapsed to the ground, panting in a heavy breath.

Rarity and Sweetie Belle grabbed the pan and cloth from the wash room. Rarity dabbed the cool cloth against Twilight's forehead while she floated the pony into the nearby, empty bed.

"Now's not the time, egghead." Rainbow Dash said, pushing her friend back into the bed. "You gotta rest for now."

"She caused all this!" Twilight said in an exasperated tone.

"And ya think Ah don't know that? Mah sis is still out there. Granny Smith and Big Mac are fightin'. Braeburn -- it's all wrong and we know it, Twilight." Apple Bloom said. She turned away, wiped away her tears, and then faced the pony in the bed. "Queen Chrysalis has as much to lose as the rest of us. We gotta work together if we're gonna fix this mess."

Twilight exhaled a sharp breath. Her eyes remained fixated on the ceiling. Before they closed she said, "At least I found some of my friends."

Rarity pulled the covers over her friend. "Poor thing must be exhausted. From what you three told me, she's been teleporting all over Equestria searching for us and her brother."

"What now?" Scootaloo said.

"Twilight's back, but she needs some serious help. It'll take too long to head to the Crystal Kingdom and back for the others. If Princess Luna were here, she would know what to do." Apple Bloom said. Her sigh resonated in the room. She turned to her fellow crusader, "Sorry Scoots. Ah doubt Discord could help us out right now, or even if he's willin' to help us out. It's not like Ah have a way to summon him."

Scootaloo shrugged at Sweetie Belle who shrugged in return. The two fillies said in unison, "Was worth a shot."

The group's silent, solemn moment broke with a firm knock on the door to the inn room. Queen Chrysalis peered through the peep hole. She backed away, her eyes widening. The changeling pointed at Rainbow Dash and the fillies, and then towards the window.

The athletic pony latched onto the supply bag underneath the basket. Rainbow Dash grabed onto Rarity then the fillies one at a time. She nabbed Twilight and darted out the window with Queen Chrysalis not too far behind.

"Ya varmint! How dare ya steal the judge's voice!" The sheriff bellowed to the group.

Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Queen Chrysalis, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders charged down the street with Twilight on the changeling ruler's back. They galloped towards the train station. The ponies bolted to the side, hiding in the shadows while they calmed their breathing. Queen Chrysalis assumed the form of an earth pony, nabbed the bit bag from Rarity, and stepped inside. Tense moments passed before she returned with several tickets.

"Last Call! All Aboard!" A voice said, resonating throughout the area.

The group of ponies gazed at the street. Their hooves pounded against the train station's floor. Queen Chrysalis slammed the door shut to the private train car as it rolled out of the station.

Honest Laughter

Sirens wailed; their boisterous noise echoed throughout the city. Strong hooves pounded against the wet concrete while dim light from the street lamps reflected off the water that ran along the gutter. Overhead, dark clouds blocked the blazing rays of the sun. Outside the protection of the clouds, a brilliant sea of light existed that reflected the sunlight.

In a medium sized apartment of the noisy city, three sets of curious eyes glanced out a window. The fillies pulled away before the blinds closed.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders turned towards the medium sized room. Apple Bloom watched Scootaloo gallop towards Rainbow Dash, Sweetie Belle heading into the kitchen where she stood near Rarity. The earth pony filly glanced at the window, and then leapt onto the stool near the bed and looked over Twilight. Every so often she glanced at the first of two bathrooms. Apple Bloom rolled her eyes at the door that had been locked for a straight hour.

"I dare say that Queen Chrysalis enjoys her bubble baths more than I do." Rarity said. She giggled to herself. The unicorn placed a gentle hoof over her sister and pulled the filly closer. In a quiet tone she said, "This little event doesn't mean I forgive you for taking my bit purse. I was saving up for that precious silk from Saddle Arabia."

"Sorry." Sweetie Belle said, her ears lowering. The filly's ears perked up, "You make the best eggs, sis."

"I'm starvin'!" Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo said, bolting towards the table.

Rarity illuminated her horn. Four plates of eggs floated onto the table. Her soft gaze turned towards the occupied stool near Twilight, "Apple Bloom, darling, you have to eat something."

Apple Bloom remained silent. The filly looked at the plate that floated in front of her. She cracked a slight smile, took the plate, and nibbled on the edge of an egg.

"I'm sure your sister is fine. She is a rather 'tough ombre' as they say." Rarity said. Her magical grasp latched onto the washcloth on top of Twilight's head. She placed it into the tub of water, wrung it out, and then put it back onto her friend's forehead. "Poor thing. She must have been feverishly teleporting all over Equestria in search of us. If you three are correct, it's quite a long ways to end up in Appleloosa from Yanhoover."

Sweetie Belle finished her breakfast then walked towards her friend. "You ok, Apple Bloom?"

"Just wonderin' what Twilight meant by wantin' to say 'sorry' to us." Apple Bloom said.

Rainbow Dash looked at the clock in the corner. She placed a hoof under her chin. "I'm just wondering how long egghead has been out there searching for us. When I 'fell' into Las Pegasus, it should have been like four in the morning."

"No offense darling, but you're not the best with telling time." Rarity said, snickering at the athletic pony who turned away. She looked toward the bed and sighed. "Though, you might be right. Twilight's fatigue is rather bad. I'm also worried she may be running a fever."

Apple Bloom hopped off her stool then proceeded toward the sac near the bed. With the map in hoof, she moved towards the table and unfurled it. A slow, cautious hoof skimmed over the magical scroll before it tapped on three balloons over Baltimare.

"Apple Bloom?" Scootaloo said.

The cautious hoof that tapped the against the balloon shaped cutie mark was placed on the floor. Apple Bloom scratched her chin. "This doesn't make sense. We're here, but... it looks like Pinkie Pie is in the same building as us --" Apple Bloom turned to her left, "-- hey, I'm still lookin'."

"You gotta be wrong. No. She's here alright." Rainbow Dash said. The athletic pony gave the filly a sheepish grin as she returned the map. "Any of you see Pinkie Pie?"

The ponies shook their heads at each other. As the door to the bathroom opened, Queen Chrysalis flung the towel on the coat rack. A cardboard box floated in front of her.

"You got pizza?!" Rainbow Dash said.

"..." Queen Chrysalis turned towards Rainbow Dash. She slowly chewed on the last bite before gulping it down. "Yes. I had it delivered while you were getting groceries. It's rather nice to enjoy a deep dish pizza with pineapple and gorgonzola slices."

Scootaloo sniffed the pizza box. "Eww... smells like Rainbow Dash's hamper."

Queen Chrysalis huffed at the filly. The aura around the box faded before it dropped into the trash. The changeling licked her fangs then her lips. She sat at the table. "To think all of you find me creepy. This strange pink pony delivered the pizza --"

"Hey!" Rainbow Dash said.

"Did her mane look like this?" Rarity said, styling Rainbow Dash's mane.

The changeling squinted at the athletic pony's mane, and then shrugged. She leaned walked toward the open bed and flopped onto it. "It's not my job to notice the differences of my food. Her mane may have looked like that. It's hard to tell since she had a hat on."

The group glared at the changeling who raised an eyebrow in return.

"Mr. Calzone's Pizza Pie Restaurant." Scootaloo said. She looked at the others, "We could order another pizza."

Rarity shook her head. She produced her bit bag, shaking it in her magical grasp. Turned upside down, a small amount of bits dropped into her open hoof.

Hushed whispers came from the group of ponies, Queen Chrysalis laying on the bed. The ponies put their hooves together. They faced the changeling.

"You're gonna show us." Scootaloo said.

"No I won't. Do not forget our little arrangement. I'm 'tagging along,' shall we say, to ensure the plan comes to fruition. You get your precious princess back, and I get my hive back." Queen Chrysalis said before she rolled over on her side. She waved her misshapen at the group, "Besides, I'll stay here and watched over the filly."

"Stupid bug," Scootaloo said in a hushed voice. She grinned, "I know it's not in the budget, but thanks for taking us out for pizza, Rarity."

Queen Chrysalis glanced at the group, "Reverse Psychology is a rather droll attempt on your part, but I do commend you for the effort."

"How about this, your bug highness. Help us out, or I grab you and deliver your flank to King Sombra myself." Rainbow Dash said. She stared at the changeling. "Rarity, think I can get the cops to come up? They say the Baltimare ASE is pretty top notch."

The changeling groaned. She assumed a pegasus form, groaned a second time, and then opened the door. "Fine, but I expect compensation."

"You coming Apple Bloom?" Sweetie Belle said. Her ears lowered. "Alright. You can keep an eye on Twilight."

*** *** ***

Apple Bloom removed her ribbon and laid it on the dresser near the bed. After a slight disheartened look, her hooves shook while she sat on top of the stool. She wiped the tears from her eyes. The filly opened her mouth, and then closed it. Her perked ears flopped down before she lowered her head.

Soft hooves guided Apple Bloom into the bathroom. The water from the pan circled around in the sink before it ran down the drain. She turned the cold water faucet on, filled the metal tub, and returned to the bed. With the washcloth wrung out, it was placed on the Twilight's forehead.

The filly's hooves wobbled underneath her while she walked toward the kitchen, pulling out a glass from the cupboard.

"Apple Bloom?" Twilight said in a soft voice.

The filly looked up and darted towards the pony, "You're awake. That's great."

"Yea. Thanks for taking care of me. I'm still a little woozy." Twilight said as she sat up. The washcloth in her magical grasp fell to the floor. She laid back down, Apple Bloom placing a clean cold cloth on her forehead. "Some princess I am. I can't protect my friends. I can't even take care of myself. I'm sorry this happened."

Apple Bloom shook her head. "You can't do everything."

"But I'm --" Twilight said.

"No." Apple Bloom said. She pointed her hoof towards the bed ridden pony, "We're here to help ya like you're here to help us. If it weren't for you teaching the Cutie Mark Crusaders those skills, how could we have found their talent? Not to mention Scootaloo had Rainbow Dash helpin' her out. Rarity was there for Sweetie Belle. Ah have..."

"That's why I'm so, so sorry. You have Applejack, but she's still out in Equestria. If I had stepped up, if I were stronger I could have stopped King Sombra." Twilight said. The spherical ceiling light reflected off her eyes as she gazed up with a somber expression.

"No pony is an island. They are made of their surroundings, of those who stand by them." Apple Bloom said with a sheepish grin.

Twilight smirked. "Cute. That's from the plaque on the jar in my home. Well, my destroyed home since Nightmare Star cut it in half and tossed part of it away."

Apple Bloom extended a hoof towards Twilight. "You'll fix it, and we'll be there for ya. I mean, you've been there for us. We're friends and family. No pony gets left behind."

Twilight remained silent while a tear rolled down her cheek onto the bed. She wiped away a tear. Her hooves pushed against the bed as she sat up. "Huh?"

"Tight. Can't breathe!" Twilight and Apple Bloom said in unison.

Apple Bloom looked towards the entrance, her face flushed. "How embarrassin'."

Pinkie Pie wiped away her tears, blowing her nose on a tissue provided by Rarity. "That was beautiful."

The group of ponies chuckled at one another with Pinkie Pie giving Apple Bloom and Twilight another death grip hug.

After being released, the group sat near the table. Twilight glanced towards Queen Chrysalis before turning away. Pinkie Pie passed out several slices of Pizza before she sat down. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle dug into their triple cheese, deep dish pizzas. Rarity tapped a napkin against her face, soon levitating one to Twilight and Rainbow Dash.

"Found her right at the Pizzeria." Rainbow Dash said, nibbling on another slice of pizza. "She was saving up some bits to buy some pizza for a local party."

"Yea, it was super, duper sad. Those little fillies and colts were promised a party, but the nasty ol' mare told em no. Sorry about the bits, Rarity." Pinkie Pie said.

Rarity rolled her eyes before giving her friend a slight smile. "It's alright. That fabric from Saddle Arabia would have been nice, but those little ones do deserve a party in this rather disheartening time."

"Where's my box?" Queen Chrysalis said.

"Here ya go, Chrysy." Pinkie Pie said.

"Don't call me that," Queen Chrysalis said as she took the box. Her nostrils flared. She licked her lips, levitated a slice out of the box, and devoured it. The changeling glanced across the table, "Just get it out of your system. We do have to work together if we are to regain what has been lost to us."

Twilight nibbled on her slice, glancing towards Queen Chrysalis from time-to-time. "I can't forgive your actions towards Princess Cadence, my big brother best friend forever, or what you did with reviving King Sombra, however, there are bigger things at stake. Each second that passes by is more time the alicorn amulet can grow in power, imparting it to King Sombra."

Rainbow Dash gulped down her last bit of pizza.

"Sweet Celestia, Rainbow Dash. Have some manners!" Rarity said. Her eyes widened. She turned towards her left, "Sweetie Belle!"

"You go girl!" Rainbow Dash said, snickering to herself. She looked at Pinkie Pie, "O no... Pinkie! Don't do it!"

Scootaloo and the others covered their ears. A pizza slice hung from Queen Chrysalis's mouth. The changeling turned toward the pink pony.

"..." Queen Chrysalis gazed at the equine with a blank, emotionless gaze. The pizza slice in her mouth slid out and landed on the plate in front of her on the table. "Charming."

"Come on Chrysy! It's not a contest unless every pony joins in. That includes semi-pony looking creatures like yourself." Pinkie Pie said.

Queen Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "I am Queen Chrysalis, ruler of the changeling empire. I do not indulge --" she placed her hooves over her mouth, "-- Twilight did it."

"Hey! I most certainly did not." Twilight said, huffing at the changeling.

Pinkie Pie rolled onto her back. Rainbow Dash pounded her hoof against the table while laughing. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle chuckled at each other. Rarity placed a hoof over her mouth, giggling to herself.

"Apple Bloom?" Twilight said as she watched the filly finish her pizza then go to the window. The boisterous chuckles and laughs from the table faded. Twilight proceeded towards the window. She extended a gentle wing. "We'll find Applejack. I know she'll be fine. As you 'reminded' me, no pony is an island."

Apple Bloom looked towards Twilight. The magical hue around the pink ribbon on the dresser reflected off her eyes. She faced the window with the ribbon being tied into her mane. "Ah know we'll find mah big sis. Still doesn't keep me from worryin' about stuff. When we got Rainbow Dash from Las Pegasus, King Sombra took control of the mayor. Ah'm just wonderin' if he can control any pony out there. What's ta keep him from control one of us?"

"I don't know the answer to that," Twilight retracted her wing then faced the filly with a smile, "but I do know that we can defeat him. If we can separate Nightmare Star and King Sombra, our group will have the best chance at righting this wrong. Now, how about we finish our lunch."

Apple Bloom pulled away from Twilight, "Ah'll be fine. Better check the map."

"Now, now. Lunch first, map --" Twilight said. She stopped. Her eyes widened. "Applejack is here?"

Two quick hooves latched onto the map. The filly pulled it away. Apple Bloom's right hoof slammed against the three apples that hovered over Baltimare. She galloped towards the door and flung it open.

"What's going on?" Sweetie Belle said.

"It looks like Applejack is here in Baltimare. Something isn't right though." Twilight said before she galloped out the door and into the hallway. She turned behind her, "Quick, we have to follow Apple Bloom to the roof."

*** *** ***

The rooftop door flung open. Apple Bloom leapt out into the rain, skidded across the roof, and then feverishly scanned the area. Her hooves pounded against the wet rooftop. The filly stopped. Thunderous blasts of lightning echoed around her as the bolts of energy struck the nearby rooftops.

Apple Bloom gazed at her big sister. Her cheery smile faded. The pink ribbon tied into her mane began to sag underneath the rain.

"Apple Bloom." Twilight said. She came to a stop with the others behind her. "Applejack, it is you. Thank Celestia you're alright. Come down to the apartment. We need to get together and figure out how to take down King Sombra."

Bolts of fierce lightning continued to rain down around the ponies, striking metal rods on the various tall buildings around them. The rain's intensity increased; the once slight drizzle turned into a downpour.

"Twilight," Applejack said, opening her eyes. The cowgirl's ferocious, furious gaze met Twilight's eyes, "What am I to you?"

Twilight raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean? You're my friend."

"And?" Applejack said.

"And what?" Twilight said.

Pinkie Pie crept toward Applejack. She waved a hoof at her friend. The pink pony walked back towards the group, and then shrugged at them.

Apple Bloom bit down on her lip. Her right hoof moved forward then pulled back. She looked at her big sister, "Applejack --"

"No! I want to know what this here 'princess' thinks. What she thinks of us and me." Applejack pointed a stern hoof at Apple Bloom then targeted Twilight. "If ya ask me, Princess Celestia used us. All of us were nothin more than a means to an end, a way to train this here pony to be a princess."

"You couldn't be more wrong, AJ. If we were just some tool be used, why are we in the castle with Twilight?" Rainbow Dash said.

"Yea. All of us sit at a round table, darling. Those chairs have our cutie marks on them. We're the elements of harmony." Rarity said.

Twilight remained silent. She gazed looked at herself. Her soft eyes turned towards her friends. The princess turned her head from side to side after she looked at Applejack, soon giving Apple Bloom a sorrowful gaze.

Applejack's eyes flashed red. A red glow surrounded her. "Time and again we heard about so-called 'destinies,' and I want to know about my destiny. What am I, 'Princess' Twilight Sparkle? Am I to be stuck as a farm pony for the rest of mah life? Is that all I am!"

Rain slid off Twilight's mane, horn, wings, and tail. She looked at her friend. "Is this how you really feel? Or is this King Sombra's doing? Tell me in your own words, not his."

Clad in armor, Applejack glanced at the ponies near Twilight before she turned towards Apple Bloom.

"Don't fight, please." Pinkie Pie said, her words falling on deaf ears.

"My big sis isn't so petty." Apple Bloom said. She closed her eyes then opened them. A bright light enveloped the filly as her armor materialized. Firm, slow hooves guided her towards the pony that looked down at her. "Where's my real sister!"

"I'm right here," Applejack adjusted her hat, "and I have to tell ya, what King Sombra promised me is something much, much grander than what I have right now, sugar cube." she said. The magically infused armor enclosed Applejack's mouth and nose. Applejack's fierce eyes reflected off the water beneath her. The gauntlets around her hooves left indentations in the rooftop as she moved forward. She placed a firm hoof Apple Bloom's withers, "Step aside."

"No." Apple Bloom said. She launched her big sister into the air after materializing a shield beneath Applejack. A glow surrounded her as she concentrated. Apple Bloom backed away. "How?"

"King Sombra respects mah talents and made this here armor specifically for me. Said somethin' about it increasing my talents tenfold." Applejack said in a muffled tone. She furrowed her brow at Apple Bloom. "That was your one chance, little sis."

"No." Scootaloo said, materializing her armor.

"It was your last chance." Sweetie Belle said, a white glow enveloping her.

Apple Bloom materialized her shield, causing Applejack to bounce back. Sweetie Belle illuminated her horn. Scootaloo latched onto the cowgirl pony and flung her into the air. Apple Bloom concentrated, opened her eyes, and caused a shield to rush toward her big sister.

The three fillies gazed on as the shield shattered.

"Nothin' like sparrin' with Nightmare Star to prepare me for you three. Like I needed it to face three fillies." Applejack said. She turned towards Twilight. "This here armor absorb magic too, just like theirs does."

Rainbow Dash latched onto Applejack and tossed her into the air. She flew towards her and floated alongside her. "You're being ridiculous, AJ! Why are you siding with that stupid shadow."

Applejack bolted forward. She latched onto Rainbow Dash's back hooves. The pegasus hurtled toward the ground. The cowgirl darted after Twilight and bucked her away before the pony could magically catch Rainbow Dash.

"Thanks... Chrysalis." Rainbow Dash said, ending with a groan.

A bolt of lightning struck a nearby tower. Applejack disappeared, and then reappeared near the ponies. She pushed her hoof against Queen Chrysalis's chest. Above the ponies, a changeling sized hole formed in the clouds. Within the group, a bright light came into existences and faded away. Twilight stood in the same spot she was bucked away from.

Tense moments passed before Rainbow Dash rocketed into the air, Applejack squinting at her.

Applejack slammed into the shield above her. She fell towards the rooftop and recovered. The cowgirl glared at the three fillies who stood in her way.

"Applejack, please don't do this. You're the element of honesty." Twilight said.

"And I can honestly say," Applejack chuckled, "I'm gonna buck your flanks so hard you'll fly to the moon without wings or magic."

Apple Bloom stood silent. She slammed her hoof into the rooftop. "Ah want mah big sis back, now!"

A powerful glow enveloped Apple Bloom. The bright light progressed to Scootaloo then ended at Sweetie Belle. The three crusaders marched toward the cowgirl.

"We will stop you." The Cutie Mark Crusaders said in a unified voice. A spherical shield enveloped Applejack. Apple Bloom pointed her hoof and raised the shield into the air. Scootaloo rose into the air while Sweetie Belle hummed a slight tune. "You will be redeemed, element of honesty."

Applejack slammed her back hooves against the ethereal wall. A hole formed above her. The cowgirl screamed, and then collapsed after Scootaloo pointed her right hoof at her, six bolts of lightning coalescing into a single monstrous stream. A tiny stone at the center of her chest plate shattered.

"Is AJ ok?" Pinkie Pie said.

"Better than ok, Pink." Applejack said, the guard over her mouth shattering. She smirked. With a powerful buck, she shattered the shield around her. The cowgirl fell to the ground. Her malefic smile reflected off the water beneath her hooves. "That there was King Sombra's 'limiter.' Now I can go all out."

"It was your protection." The Cutie Mark Crusaders said.

Apple Bloom pointed her hoof. The ethereal shards of the shattered shield floated into the air. They bolted towards Applejack. "Sorry, big sis."

Applejack collapsed to the ground. The armor around her dematerialized. Her hat -- impaled by the ethereal shield shards -- floated into the sky, soon destroyed by a bolt of lightning. She rubbed her forehead and opened her eyes. "What in tarnation happened ta me? Apple Bloom, is that you?"

"Applejack," Twilight said, tears streaming down her cheeks. Her eyes rolled back, and she fell to the ground. "Thank Celestia. You're. Safe."

"Twilight!" Applejack said.

*** *** ***

Applejack wrung out the washcloth then placed it back on Twilight's head. She turned away from the pony and sighed. "It's right shameful that stallion got ta me. No. Granny would call me a disgrace to the Apple Family for what happened."

Apple Bloom slumbered on the adjacent bed with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo sleeping on the pullout couch. The earth pony filly yawned for a second, stretching her hooves. She curled up into a ball, her withers twitching. Her body relaxed after a kind, gentle hoof was placed on her head.

Queen Chrysalis mouthed a silent "thank you" to Rainbow Dash. She whispered to the pony, "Tell any pony I said that and I'll deny it."

"Twilight. There aren't any words ta say how sorry I am for that appallin' behavior." Applejack's ears drooped. She turned towards the adjacent bed, "Bloom, that goes for you too. Ta think King Sombra turned me against my friends, more over my family."

Rarity nudged the cowgirl. "Here, you need the proper attire to greet Apple Bloom when she wakes up."

"Rarity, I thought ya didn't have any bits left?" Pinkie Pie said said.

"Now, now. A girl does have her secrets." Rarity said.

Applejack adjusted her new Stetson. She hung her head at the now mapless bag in front of her. The cowgirl latched onto the new hat on her head and pulled it over her face.

Pinkie Pie nudged her friend, and then patted her on the back. "Map, Shmap. We'll find Fluttershy without it."

Queen Chrysalis shook her head. "I know this stench all too well. Crypsis got her revenge by stealing the map. Now we have no way of tracking the sixth and final one of your group. This one time, I will blame myself."

Twilight groaned, and then sat up. The pony smiled at her friend before laying back down. "Was what you said on the roof true? Do you resent me for becoming a princess?"

"No, sugar cube. That's your destiny. You're meant to be the princess of friendship. What got to me was thinking about the farm." Applejack said. She looked at her cutie mark. She faced her friends, "I just --"

A slight glow enveloped Applejack's cutie mark. Rarity levitated a tissue towards her friend.

"-- thanks." Applejack said after blowing her nose. "I know this here cutie mark tells me I belong on the farm, but what got to me was thinking about Granny. It's horrible of me ta say this, but I don't want that kinda life. I don't want to be a farm bound pony for the rest of my life, to turn into a gray maned old mare. She'd have my flank for sayin' somethin' so awful."

"Naw," Rainbow Dash said, pushing a hoof into Applejack. "Look. I want to be a Wonderbolt. Every pony knows it. That doesn't mean I don't have other pursuits. I'm loyal to you guys, but you're not something I focus on twenty-four, seven. Ya got me?"

Applejack gave a slight nod. "Ya. I get ya, sugar cube. Still, it's somethin' I can't dismiss so easily. Ta think I'll be a farm bound, one trick pony is what put me in that mess."

Pinkie Pie latched onto her friend. She continued her death-like grip.

"Pink. Stop. I can't breathe." Applejack said.

"I'm hugging out all those nasty thoughts. That's not the Applejack I know. Those are Meaniejack's thoughts." Pinkie Pie said before releasing her friend.

Applejack coughed. She rubbed her back. "Ok, ok. I get ya Pink. Take it easy with the bear hug. I'm sorer than a pony who had ta wrestle Fluttershy's bear after a back-ta-back rodeo competition. These here fillies are definitely something. They really stepped up."

The ponies chuckled at one another. Queen Chrysalis rolled her eyes. The changeling sat down at the table and ate her pizza.

Twilight smiled at her friends. Her eyes began to water at the illusionary image of Fluttershy.

"We'll find Fluttershy, sugar cube. I promise." Applejack said. She pushed Twilight back, "Now you get some rest. I only remember bits and pieces, but I can tell ya this for certain. Somethin' ain't right with Nightmare Star. She's actin' a might funny around King Sombra."

"What do you mean?" Rarity said.

"Don't know. Thought she would be like Nightmare Moon, but she's different. She's really... 'calm' for some reason. Anyways, I definitely remember something before havin' that armor put on me. King Sombra was mighty furious when he learned about Rainbow Dash and Rarity being found. He ordered a pony to look for Fluttershy, but none of them could find her." Applejack said. She glanced at the clock in the corner, and then rubbed a slow hoof against her chin. "I'd reckon it was about two hours ago."

Twilight illuminated her horn and projected an image onto the ceiling. "This is the last thing I remember about the map from two hours ago. It definitely showed Fluttershy's cutie mark here. Question is why?"

"Discord," Applejack said. She adjusted her hat, "King Sombra said to ignore Discord since he wasn't messin' with us. I wonder if he found Fluttershy, and he's keepin' her safe."

Queen Chrysalis sighed in the corner. She levitated the box of pizza towards the trash. She sniffed the other's slices, recoiled, and trotted towards the others. "It may be wise to head to your rendezvous spot in the Crystal Kingdom if that chaotic god does have the sixth element of harmony. If what happened during Tirek's rampage across Equestria is correct, a greater concentration of magical energy might tip him off."

Twilight raised an eyebrow, "How do 'you' know about us defeating Tirek?"

"My dear Twilight," Queen Chrysalis chuckled, "my spies are everywhere. Why do you think I targeted Princess Cadence's wedding? " she said. The changeling licked her lips before tapping a napkin against her cheeks. She sat near the group. "Anyways, we should be off."

"We're out of bits, and I don't get paid for two more weeks." Pinkie Pie said.

"What about your 'secret' little bank account, Rarity?" Queen Chrysalis said.

Rarity's eyes widened. She glared at Queen Chrysalis, "How dare you spy on me. You better not have touched it."

"I took out enough to get us where we need to go." Queen Chrysalis said.

"Well, considering this is an 'emergency,' I will allow it." Rarity said, turning away in a huff. She grumbled, "I'm putting a password on that bank account."

A Reborn Star

Plumes of smoke billowed out of the locomotive's stack, steam hissing from its breaks. Sparks erupted from the train's sturdy metal wheels that skidded against the track as it came to stop. Behind the station, the crystal castle spire gleamed in the light of the sun that sat overhead. Mares, stallions, fillies, and colts trotted, galloped, and walked throughout the Crystal Kingdom, going about their daily routine.

On the train station platform, crystal ponies clad in armor readied their spears. Determined gazes focused on the car door. Princess Cadence stood ready near Zecora.

"Twilight," Princess Cadence said in a cheery voice. She placed a firm hoof around her sister-in-law, and then hugged her. The princess smiled at the ponies getting off the train. Her expression soured, yet she soon raised an eyebrow. "Chrysalis?"

Queen Chrysalis pushed her way through the ponies in front of her, a misshapen hoof placed over her mouth. She galloped into the train station. The bathroom door slammed behind her.

"It's so good to see you, Cadence." Twilight said. She levitated the three fillies onto the stretchers brought to the train station. "I'm glad you got my message. I'm worried the battle with Applejack took a lot out of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. They haven't woken up since last morning."

Princess Cadence nodded to the group. Applejack ran alongside the stretcher that carried Apple Bloom. Rarity dashed towards the hospital along with Rainbow Dash.

Queen Chrysalis stumbled out of the bathroom. She patted her head with a wet piece of paper towel before throwing it into the garbage. In a quivering voice she said, "The love in this place is sickeningly sweet."

Pinkie Pie, Twilight, Princess Cadence, and Queen Chrysalis made their way down the street and proceeded into hospital, the sliding crystal glass doors opening for them. Queen Chrysalis plucked a tissue from a nearby box and held it to her nose. She glanced at the gawking eyes that stared at her, sighed, and followed behind the three ponies in front of her.

"How are they doing?" Twilight said.

"They're fine, thank Celestia." Applejack said. She placed her Stetson back on her head. "The doc came in right quick, thanks to Princess Cadence. These fillies are just sufferin' from exhaustion, which doesn't surprise me."

Pinkie Pie patted her friend of the back. She smiled at Applejack who tipped her hat forward to cover her eyes.

"It'll be alright, Applejack. Doctor Chromite is one of the best in Equestria. She'll have them better in no time." Princess Cadence said.

The mare bowed to Princess Cadence and Twilight before turning towards the group. She glanced over the chart in front of her. The mare hung it on the front of Apple Bloom's bed. "As I told Ms. Applejack, the fillies are quite alright. Though I'm being denied access to the information about the event that led to their current state, it appears to be a form of exhaustion brought about by an ethereal event of unknown origin."

"Huh?" Pinkie Pie said.

"The 'incident' on the roof drained them, Pinkie Pie. It sounds like they just need a rather long nap to recover." Twilight said.

"Correct, your highness. I've given them some fluids, along with some special vitamins to treat the exhaustion. With Ms. Zecora's knowledgeable expertise in herbal remedies, I believe the fillies will make a full recovery by the end of the day if not tomorrow." Doctor Chromite said. She bowed to Twilight and Princess Cadence. The mare adjusted her stethoscope. Her eyes widened when she turned away from the group and spied Queen Chrysalis. "You should see a dermatologist. I can also recommend a plastic surgeon as well."

Queen Chrysalis hissed at the mare then huffed after the crystal pony left.

The room fell silent after the door closed. Princess Cadence faced the private room's window, her gentle gaze reflected off its glass pane. She lowered her head. Her wings quivered. A tear rolled down her cheek as she watched the crystal ponies pass by the window.

"We'll get him back," Twilight said.

"I'm that easy to read?" Princess Cadence said. Her eyes focused on Queen Chrysalis's reflection in the window. "I can't blame you for King Sombra's actions, yet I do blame you for bringing that foul being back into existence."

Queen Chrysalis stepped forward. The deposed changeling ruler towered over the ponies in the room. The image of Princess Cadence reflected off her eyes. A heavy sigh escaped her. "I will not blame you for your ire towards me, however, let me say this, Princess Cadence. You presided over nothing when I last saw you in Canterlot. There were no burdens placed upon your shoulders. Now you are the ruler of your own kingdom. Tell me my dear princess, what would you do for your subjects? What would you do to protect them, to care for them?"

"..." Princess Cadence turned towards the window and focused on the ponies that trotted by. She faced the changeling. "I would do everything in my power to protect them. With all my heart, I care for them and would do anything to keep them safe, however, I would not commit atrocities to save their lives. How could I look them in the eyes, knowing what I did was so horrible?"

"It is all in the eye of the beholder." Queen Chrysalis said. Her stern gaze relaxed. "In the city we just came from, I ate pizza alongside these ponies. The only reason I ate that pizza was due to how it tasted, not to sustain myself; it provided no form of sustenance. Unlike your kind, changelings cannot subsist on food. It is only through devouring the love of creatures that we live. It's been that way since I can remember."

Pinkie Pie trotted up to Queen Chrysalis, "I'll make a love cupcake for you to tide ya over."

Queen Chrysalis shook her head. "What am I doing, talking to my food like this. When all of this is over, things will be back to the way they were. I'll make that ridiculous stallion pay for taking my subjects away from me."

Twilight stepped forward. She furrowed her brow. "Why not start a new hive. I've seen how you treat your subjects. There's no love for them."

"They're brainless dolts. What do you expect?" Queen Chrysalis said as she side-stepped Twilight. The changeling stopped in front of the force field that materialized in front of the door. "Do you want to fight me? Even though I am weakened, I'm more than a match for you, Twilight Sparkle."

"Answer me one question, and you can leave. Do you care for your subjects? Apple Bloom and the others told me about what happened in Las Pegasus." Twilight said.

"Stupid blabbermouths --" Queen Chrysalis bit down on her lip then relaxed "-- Luminescence is a rare exception, and I pity that poor child. Unlike you Princess Cadence, that changeling will never hold a foal of her own." she said while her ears lowered. The changeling's wings quivered at her side. She raised her head, "Listen well, little ponies. No changeling has ever been born into this world. Neither are changelings made by any means. We have simply existed. Without me, my subjects will starve. Without them, I am nothing but a freak who cannot live on her own."

"Twilight?" Princess Cadence said.

"Does that satisfy your question?!" Queen Chrysalis said. She levitated Pinkie Pie out of the way. The deposed changeling crept into hallway with the shield gone, and then headed towards the bathroom.

"She's lying." Princess Cadence said. She turned toward the window once more. "How can a being exist that lives on other living creatures?"

"Queen Chrysalis is horrible for what she did. I can't forgive her for imprisoning you and trying to take my brother from me. Still, I'm not sure about her." Twilight said.

*** *** ***

The clock hands ticked on in the waiting room. Rarity levitated a cup to her lips. She shivered.

"You'll need to be cautious with your drink. It'll make it quite hard to think." Zecora said.

Princess Cadence nodded to Rarity while she snacked on a chocolate bar. "I had to give up on the coffee here. It's rather bitter, not to mention a bit strong for my liking."

Though the sun remained frozen overhead, the clock hands crawled by. One hour became two and so on until eight hours passed by since the ponies and changeling arrived in the crystal kingdom. Twilight slumbered on the bench with a pillow under her head and a blanket over her. Zecora stood on her head and closed her eyes.

Spike paced back and forth. The little dragon nibbled on a gem shard before dropping it back into his snack sac. Shadows crept by the door to the private room.

Pinkie Pie exited the private room and shook her head at the group. In a quiet voice she said, "They're still asleep. Applejack refuses to leave Apple Bloom's side. Same with Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo. I'm surprised you're out here, Rarity."

"I'm trying my best to remain calm. I know it wasn't Applejack's fault, still... this wouldn't have started if she had focused on the issue at hoof." Rarity said.

Princess Cadence tossed the chocolate bar's wrapper into the garbage. She wiped her mouth with a napkin, got a drink, and then tossed the napkin and cup into bin near the coffee maker. "Rarity, I know how you feel. Shining Armor is out there with King Sombra doing Celestia knows what to him. Each time I look at my side, it pains me to see an empty space where he once stood. Sweetie Belle is your dear sister, and I can see it in your eyes. With that being said, you mustn't give into your emotions."

"I know, Princess Cadence. I just hate feeling of powerlessness." Rarity said, hanging her head. She wiped away a tear, soon blowing her nose on the provided tissue. "Thank you, Pinkie Pie."

The door to the private room opened. Rarity crept towards the door, and then bolted inside. She latched onto her little sister, embarrassing her in a deep hug.

"Feels like ah went through the Sister Hooves Social's obstacle course ninety times." Apple Bloom said.

Scootaloo yawned and stretched her wings. "Know what ya mean. I haven't hurt this bad since I did fifty wing-ups."

"You did fifteen." Rainbow Dash poked Scootaloo in the side. "Still, I knew you'd pull through, squirt. Same goes for Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom."

Queen Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "Such sentimentality. If it weren't for the threat of impending doom, I could dine on this for the rest of my life. I'll get you three for talking about Luminescence."

"Come on, Chrysy. I thought it was rather sweet." Pinkie Pie said.

"You're all --" Queen Chrysalis darted for the bathroom. She slammed the door behind her. The changeling shivered. After several moments, she came out of the bathroom. "Something isn't right with this place."

The ponies chuckled at the changeling who stumbled out of the bathroom. Apple Bloom latched onto Applejack's neck, embracing her in a heavy hug. The filly leapt off her big sister's back and moved towards Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

After a nod from Princess Cadence, Twilight awoken, the group left the hospital. They proceeded down the street, chatting with one another. Crystal ponies smiled and waved at the group. Spike darted forward and grinned at the ponies.

"I don't know how safe we will be in the Crystal Kingdom. King Sombra seems to be so focused on Equestria that he's turned a blind eye towards us." Princess Cadence said. The doors to the crystal castle spire opened. In the dining room, she sat at the table with her friends. "We'll need to be at full strength to battle King Sombra, so, please, eat up. Before we start though, I would like to commend the efforts of every pony. Apple Bloom. Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo. The biggest thanks goes to all of you for your efforts in freeing Zecora and protecting me and my little one."

The Cutie Mark Crusaders grinned at the princess. The fillies cheered at one another. Applejack patted Apple Bloom on the head. Rainbow Dash rubbed Scootaloo's mane while Rarity gave a polite nod and gentle smile towards Sweetie Belle.

"Indeed. That cannot be debated. If it weren't for these three, I would be consumed by hatred." Zecora said. She rubbed a slow hoof against her chin. Her metal rings jingled. "That is rather odd. Something seems off. Something, or rather some pony that's flawed."

The ponies raised a curious eyebrow at their friend.

"Chrysalis!" Princess Cadence said. Her eyes widened. "You don't think she'd go after the crystal heart?"

The Cutie Mark Crusaders turned to one another. They bolted out the door with the others behind them and raced through the crystal castle spire. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo panted as they galloped towards the circle underneath the castle.

All of the ponies stopped. A dazed Queen Chrysalis crept towards the crystal heart. The changeling's eyes remained blank, along with her expression. Time appeared to freeze like the sun overhead. The changeling's hooves inched closer towards the magical item.

"Chrysalis, no! You'll destroy the kingdom." Princess Cadence said. She frowned. Her horn glowed in a fierce light. "I won't let you hurt my subjects!"

Queen Chrysalis let lose an ethereal wail as she latched onto the crystal heart. Bright magical light enveloped her. Dark, viscous liquid dripped from her hooves, and then vanished into nothingness. The glow around her grew brighter. Every pony in the vicinity shielded their eyes.

The light subsided and ponies lowered their hooves. They gazed on at a silhouette in front of them.

"Chrysy?" Pinkie Pie said, squinting at the pony that struggled to stand.

Majestic, ethereal wings unfurled from the pony's sides; they glistened in the light of the sun. The tall mare stood up and rubbed her eyes. Her flank hit the floor beneath her while she stared at her shaking hooves. "I'm. Free?"

"You have a lot of explaining to do, Queen Chrysalis. Why did you try to take the crystal heart?" Twilight said. Her eyes darted about, and then relaxed. "It looks like the crystal heart is alright."

"Yes, it's fine." Princess Cadence said. She turned towards the unknown pony, "What were you thinking?! If you destroyed the Crystal Heart, we would have lost our protection.

The now transformed pony held her hooves up to the light, and then placed them on the ground. She moved out of the circle and into the sunlight. Her eyes closed, the mare raised her head and smiled. "The sun feel so good, but I wish it were a happier time."

"Who are you?" Sweetie Belle said as she crept toward the pony.

The alicorn mare faced the ponies. She gave a deep bow to them before raising her head. "I am... well, I was known as Princess Che Desiderano Stella, guider and protector of the star ponies."

"This has to be a trick. There's no such princess." Twilight said.

"You will never hear of such a pony because of what transpired." The princess said. Her white mane flowed in the wind. She retracted her blue ethereal wings to her sides. "Star Swirl the Bearded made sure of it."

Twilight shook her head. "You're lying, Queen Chrysalis. You've just transformed into this, this alicorn lookalike, this facsimile to throw us off."

"Darling, maybe we should hear her out. If it were Queen Chrysalis, she would have attacked us long ago." Rarity said.

"If it will ease your concerns, I will allow myself to be bound in chains and brought under your judgment, Princess Cadence." The princess said.

*** *** ***

Several ears remained perked in the throne room. At the trial, the newly transformed princess perorated her tale to Princess Cadence and the others. Pinkie Pie tilted her head back and forth then scratched her mane. Applejack raised a curious eyebrow at the pony who sat bound in chains on the red carpet, green goo spread over the princess's face.

".... and that is my story from what I can remember." The princess said.

"This isn't possible." Princess Cadence said.

"I am so sorry, my child." The former changeling said. She lowered her head. "It doesn't make sense, yet the zebra's magically infused potion must provide you with some proof."

"It might be a hasty brew, but what it tells is true." Zecora said. She pointed at the princess bound in shackles, "If she were a changeling in disguise, she would be revealed to us, unable to hide."

"Princess Che Desiderano Stella?" Twilight said.

"Please, call me Princess Star." the princess said after a polite nod. The shackles around her floated away. The princess stretched her neck. "From the bottom of my heart, I cannot express to you Princess Cadence the regret over my shameful actions as Queen Chrysalis. The same goes to all of you. I did not realize my own spell would cause so much misery and sorrow. That was never my intent."

Princess Cadence placed two hooves over her face, and then pointed one at the alicorn in front of her. Her stern hoof quivered, "Y-Y-You're lying! I'm an orphan. Princess Celestia raised me. She would have told me about you."

Princess Star shook her head from side-to-side in a slow, fluid motion. "No my dear Mi Amore Cadenza. She wouldn't have known. The wish I made purged me from the memories of every pony in Equestria. This includes Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Star Swirl the Bearded pleaded with me to reconsider, but he knew the spell had already been cast. He aided my selfish request, and I made him immune to my wish magic before the full effects of the spell took hold of me. Every book, every tome, every scroll in Equestria with my name in it was to be purged from history. Though, from what I know about that stallion, he was quite the trickster. He may hidden the books in some secret library instead of destroying them like I asked."

Twilight placed her hooves together. She raised her right hoof and pointed it at the princess in front of her. After receiving a "yes" from Princess Star, the pony let loose a fury of questions. Each answer caused her eyes widened a bit more. At the last question, she placed two hooves over her mouth.

"Twilight?" Rarity said.

"Only Princess Celestia knew of Star Swirl's most private ideas, thoughts, and theories about magical research." Twilight said.

"And the only way I could know about it is if I were there?" Princess Star said. Her cutie mark flashed for a brief second. She placed a gentle hoof on her chest, "My cutie mark represent a powerful talent. I can fulfill the wishes of ponies. Though it is my choice in granting the wishes, the power is rather dangerous if misused."

"You wished yourself to forget the pain inflicted upon you by King Sombra, and in turn wished to be forgotten yourself." Princess Cadence said. She turned away from Princess Star. "Why?"

Princess Star sighed. The other ponies in the room shrugged at each other, Pinkie Pie wiping away a tear. Twilight crept toward Princess Cadence, placing a gentle wing over her back.

"I loved King Sombra dearly, and the stallion reciprocated those feelings. I do not know what started him down his dark path, but he pined for Princess Celestia. From what I can tell, he may have wanted Nightmare Star at his side to dominate the ponies of the Crystal Empire, and then Equestria." Princess Star said. She gazed at the ponies around her before facing Princess Cadence. "My jealousy grew to the point it consumed me, and I wished to forget the pain. It was only until I realized my foalish mistake that it was too late to undo what had been done. I am so, so sorry, my child."

"Don't call me that." Princess Cadence said.

"I used Star Swirl the Bearded's time spell -- combined with my own wish magic -- to send you to a place that you would be safe. I knew Princess Celestia would find you one way or another." Princess Star said.

Sweetie Belle crept forward. She smiled at Princess Star who smiled in return. "So, if you can grant wishes, why can't we just wish things to go back to the way they were?"

Princess Star shook her head. "Though my power is great, it is also dangerous. If you tamper with one event, that small change can lead to a cascade of unintended consequences. My poor star ponies are proof of that."

"The changelings?" Rarity said.

"Yes. I am connected to each of my little ponies I care for so dearly, akin to how Princess Cadence can feel the love of the crystal ponies around her." Princess Star said.

"So, only small wishes." Apple Bloom said.

"I didn't say that either. Wishing is a powerful magic, but it has to be precise." Princess Star winked at the filly. She stood up and illuminated her horn. "Pinkie Pie. What happens if you use salt instead of sugar in a cupcake recipe?"

Pinkie Pie shivered. "Eww. That's a crime against baking."

"Sorry. I will remember that in the future." The princess said, ending in a sly chuckle. "Anyways, what you end up with is a disaster. Like a wish, you must use the right ingredient, or rather, the right words to make the wish come about. Not to mention it takes a powerful heart behind the wish to make it come true."

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo stood silent. They turned to their friend.

Sweetie Belle scratched her chin. Her eyes lit up. She motioned towards her friends. Hushed whispers came from the group. Curious eyes followed Sweetie Belle as the filly approached Princess Star. In a firm tone she said, "I wish that you would grant my wish, the true wish I want, to bring Fluttershy here."

"Now, now." Princess Star said in a delicate tone. "I can't just grant a wish about granting a wish. Still," the princess smiled, "I do know what you want. Wish granted, my little filly. That's your one and only wish, by the way."

"What!" Sweetie Belle said.

"Gotcha," Princess Star said, ending with a sly wink. Her eyes glowed in a soft blue light. Her wings extended while she rose into the air. A powerful sphere of light grew from a small point. The brilliant light subsided. "There we go."

Discord hummed a slight tune while he poured a cup of tea. Fluttershy sat in a floating seat with Angel sitting in her lap. The chaotic god took a sip of his tea, raising the farthest talon on his eagle claw into the air.

"Eww..." Scootaloo said, brushing away the digit.

Fluttershy's eyes widened. "Twilight? Applejack? Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash?"

Pinkie Pie leapt towards her friend and embraced her in a bear hug before letting her go.

"Princess Che Desiderano Stella." Discord said in a grumbling tone. "Here I thought you were gone forever."

"Gone, but not forgotten by you it seems." Princess Star said.

Discord stirred his tea. He groaned and faced the princess in front of him. After a clearing his throat, he glanced towards Twilight, "Before you raise your hoof and ask me, here is a quick rundown."

Images flew by in the ponies' minds, except Fluttershy's. The chaotic god yawned. A plate of biscuits floated towards him. He smiled at the yellow pegasus, and then snapped his eagle talon. All of the ponies shook their heads.

"Might wanna warn us about that, Discord." Applejack said. She rubbed her head, "Any pony catch that?"

Twilight shrugged at the group. Rarity stood up, wobbled, and collapsed to her hooves. Rainbow Dash flew into a wall before she fell to the ground, scratching her head with her right hoof.

"Ooo, it's like a spy movie. You went into hiding while keeping tabs on every pony. You're the one who caused Queen Chrysalis to go all wonky and touch the Crystal Heart." Pinkie Pie said.

Discord placed a firm paw on his face and dragged it down. "If you want to boil down an intricate plot of deception, subterfuge, dissension, and a delicious touch of chaotic magic, yes. It is 'like a spy movie,' Pinkie Pie. Also, yes. I decided a 'small' bit of intervention was in order. King Sombra has left me alone, but I know that stallion has powerful magical defense up in Canterlot. He's based them off Tirek's magical absorbing capabilities."

Princess Cadence shivered. She walked down the steps, and then bolted for the bathroom.

"What's wrong with my daughter?" Princess Star said.

"She umm... is..." Twilight said, rubbing a hoof against her neck.

"She's having a baby!" Pinkie Pie said. She shrugged at the others. "What? Not like I promised not to tell Princess Star."

Princess Star's eyes widened. She remained frozen in place. Pinkie Pie's waving hoof reflected off her eyes.

"I think she's broken." Rainbow Dash said.

"I'm going to be a grandmother?" Princess Star said. She opened her mouth, and then closed it.

Twilight nodded with a smile. "That makes you. My. mother-in-law..."

Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash snickered to each other.

"Not funny!" Twilight said.

Discord cleared his throat. He tapped a gavel on the table. "We'll adjourn for a short recess. I can hear those three fillies' stomachs rumbling from over here."

The Cutie Mark Crusaders gave a sheepish grin to the group. Princess Cadence came out of the bathroom. Twilight stood by the princess, looked into her eyes, shook her head, and then walked towards the dining room with her friends behind her. Princess Star stood silent in the throne room. She gazed at the crystal tapestries around her.

"I can never forgive you...."

Those five words resonated inside Princess Star's mind. Her tears glinted in the light of the sun before they soaked into the red carpet beneath her. The alicorn's lower lip quivered before she hung her head.

"Forgiveness is a tricky thing, Princess Star." Discord said. He stood over the princess. "You know all-too-well, like Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, how I was back then in the old days, how I tormented ponies."

"And now?" Princess Star said.

"It took two mistakes for me to realize what I had been missing. It's rather 'disgusting' to think about at times, but having a friend does make the world of difference. I believe your daughter will forgive you with time." Discord said. He snapped his talon, "Here."

"Discord!" Princess Star said, wiping the pie off her face. Her eyes focused on the box, "This is --"

"We'll call it a little welcome back present, Princess 'Wishing' Star. Something to remind you of what you have." Discord said. He walked off, "You ponies and your sentimentality. It's sickeningly sweet, I believe you once said."

"It sickened me as Queen Chrysalis. As my true self, it's a beautiful aroma. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world." Princess Star said, clutching the picture in her hooves.

Dark Storm's End; Redemption

"A storm is coming," Princess Star gazed into the distant horizon. Her concerned gaze gravitated toward the sky above her, and then back towards the horizon. Dark red clouds reflected off her eyes while she stood on the castle's balcony that faced towards Canterlot. "To think my wish to be forgotten would cause such misery to so many, including my little star ponies -- this is truly my fault."

"But you'll fix it." Twilight said.

Princess Star cracked a slight smile towards the pony at her side. Her unnerved gaze relaxed at the sight of the three fillies that stood in front of her.

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo let out a nervous gulp before they stepped forward. Their withers twitched. They smiled at their big sisters who stood behind them.

"I know you three can do it. I'll be right here." Aegis said, transforming into her bat pony form. "I'll stay behind with Princess Star and Zecora. We'll protect Princess Cadence."

Twilight illuminated her horn. A brilliant light enveloped the ponies. They materialized on a grassy field outside the Crystal Kingdom.
In front of the group, a red sea crept forward. Eyes flashed red in succession, one after another. Mares, stallions, fillies and colts galloped forward, clad in dark armor.

"Fluttershy, you know what will happen if I interfere in this event." Discord said, rubbing his tail. He gave his pegasus friend a hug before placing her back on the ground. "Still," Discord materialized several thick vines that surrounded the perimeter of the empire behind him, "that doesn't mean I can't have a little bit of a claw in this historical event."

Discord vanished. In his place stood Granny Smith and Big Macintosh.

"For Apple Bloom" a note pinned to Big Macintosh's harness read.

Apple Bloom and Applejack latched onto their family. Little time was given for their reunion. Green eyes dotted the dark spaces in-between the thick vines. A dark shadow rolled forth behind the dark red cloud that crept towards the group.

One-by-one the Cutie Mark Crusaders materialized their armor. Twilight stood near her friends and illuminated her horn. Crystal guards stood behind the groups. Granny Smith took off Big Macintosh's harness, the stallion stretching his neck.

A red beam of intensely focused, magical energy tore through the vine barrier. Apple Bloom materialized her shield around the group. Scootaloo bolted into the air. Sweetie Belle focused her magic. Twilight floated into the air, her eyes glowing in brilliant white light.

King Sombra's fiery eyes took in the sight of the open field as Nightmare Star floated to the ground beside him. His maniacal laughed echoed into the distance. The unicorn stallion's hoof rose into the air. Tense moments passed while it seemed to freeze. He pointed it towards the ponies before him.

Armor clad equines and changelings charged forth, their eyes flashing red. Big Macintosh snorted. He dug his hoof into the ground, picked up a large rock, and chucked it towards King Sombra and Nightmare Star. The rock disintegrated into chunks that slammed against several ponies and changelings.

More of the Facular Empire's troops poured forth. A small platoon floated into the air on top of Apple Bloom's shield. Scootaloo launched herself towards the aerial brigade and slammed them into the shield. Sweetie Belle turned her gaze towards the troops imprisoned inside the ethereal shield. Red spheres of light floated out of them, soon disappearing.

Placed on the ground, the ponies removed their armor. They gazed at the oncoming swarm in shock, soon fleeing towards the safety of the Crystal Empire.

"We can't keep this up." Twilight said. She floated towards the ground, "We're facing all of Equestria."

"That's when we dig in deep, right Twilight." Rainbow Dash said, chucking a pony into another shield created by Apple Bloom. "If we can stick to the plan and keep this up, we'll have them done in no time."

"The girls can't do this forever, Rainbow." Applejack said. She bucked a pony into the shield before it sealed up. "Still, keep it up you three! We got your backs."

King Sombra snarled. He pointed his right hoof towards the fillies, and Nightmare Star vanished from his side.

A fiery trail rocketed toward the fillies, and then stopped. Nightmare Star pushed against the starry, ethereal shield in front of her. Her hooves pounded against it.

"Princess Star, ah thought you were protectin' Princess Cadence." Apple Bloom said.

The princess shook her head, pressing against the shield. Sweat dripped forth from her brow. Princess Star's horn aglow in a furious light, she launched Nightmare Star into the air. She bolted after the corrupt princess. "Princess Celestia, remember your subjects!"

Nightmare Star remained silent. She raised a hoof, vanished, and then reappeared near Princess Star, slamming her hoof into the alicorn's quickly materialized shield. "No pony shall escape the light of day!"

Twilight rocketed into the sky with her friends. A brilliant glow surrounded them.

King Sombra appeared in front of Nightmare Star. Thick, dark, viscous liquid escaped his red horn. The shadows raced towards Twilight's group, blocked by Apple Bloom's shield. He turned his vicious gaze towards the filly.

"I will not allow you to harm those fillies!" Princess Star yelled, her eyes glowing. She rose into the air and fired a powerful beam of coalesced magical energy. The beam of glittering light collided with King Sombra's own red beam. "It was my own fault for freeing you. Even worse, I allowed myself to be consumed by jealous. Today, I will right my wrong."

King Sombra screamed, Nightmare Star evading the blast. The stallion fell to the ground below and landed with a heavy thud.

Nightmare Star floated above the stallion. She smirked at him. Her hoof touched King Sombra. The mare's eyes followed the pony who rocketed towards the vines, soon encased by them. Nightmare Star's hooves and wings tensed up. "With Helios as my will, as my soul, I seal the away, Nightmare Star!"

Embers coalesced into a brilliant fireball that surrounded Nightmare Star. The fireball turned into a towering inferno. From the inferno, pillars of flame zapped the armor clad ponies and turned their armor to ash.

"It's not over yet! Stay on guard." Princess Celestia said as she emerged from the fireball.

A dark mass materialized behind her. Wings shot forth from it. Princess Luna crept forward. "I am ready when you are, sister."

King Sombra fell to the ground. The Cutie Mark Crusaders, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Twilight and her friends, and Princess Star marched towards the stallion that struggled to his hooves. In a snarling voice he said, "Clever, pretending to assume the form of Nightmare Star. All your actions even had me fooled. I think it's time to reap the benefits of a bountiful harvest sown into the soil of Equestria."

Red spheres bubbled from the ground. They hovered above the ground, and then zipped into the air. The large crimson sphere plummeted to the ground and landed on top of King Sombra. It vanished.

Cracks formed in the ground. Ethereal wails followed. Streams of wisped white smoke emerged. A whinny echoed throughout the area.

"What are those things?" Granny Smith said, pointing her hoof at the ghostly equines.

"Windigos," Princess Celestia said, adjusting her neck piece. She illuminated her horn and unfurled her wings. "King Sombra has revived them, just as I feared. Now they're more powerful than ever and do not require a host to feed upon."

A dark ethereal coat materialized around King Sombra. He floated towards the ground with the Windigos at his side. "Such beautiful creatures, are they not? It was a shame to believe the tales they had been destroyed so long ago. Their power is beautiful, almost intoxicating."

One unicorn pushed against an earth pony. A pegasus mare stuck her tongue out at a unicorn and earth pony below her. Frost covered the ground beneath their hooves.

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna darted towards the ponies. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie floated towards different groups.

Princess Star and the Cutie Mark Crusaders turned their gaze toward King Sombra.

"That's enough out of you." A voice said.

"Discord!" King Sombra said. He growled. "How dare you interfere."

Discord chuckled. The Windigos retreated back into the ground. "I'm just 'leveling' the playing field," a box of popcorn appeared in front of him with angel sitting on top, "and now to watch the show unfold."

"Filthy misshapen creature." King Sombra said as Discord disappeared. Red mist escaped his open mouth with each breath. The gem embedded into his horn glowed in a fierce light. "I loathe you all!"

The ground shook. A giant shadow stood before the ponies, enveloping them one-by-one. Furious green eyes appeared on the shadow. Guttural growls and snarls came from the dark mass that rolled toward the Crystal Empire.

A beam of magic zipped through the shadow. Princess Celestia stood her ground, along with Princess Luna.

"Princess Cadence, you should stay in the castle." Princess Star said.

"I must play my part in protecting my subjects." Princess Cadence said. The crystal heart in her magical grasp glowed in a soft light. She embraced the stallion that appeared in front of her, the two turning a stern gaze toward the shadow.

"Who's the new princess?" Shining Armor said.

"Umm, long story, but it's my mother." Princess Cadence said.

Beams of magic from unicorns and alicorns pounded the shadow. Pegasi gathered clouds and sent forth bolts of lightning. Earth ponies pushed several large boulders against the shadow, forming a circle around it.

"You'll never succeed." A voice said.

"Wrong!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders said. A brilliant light enveloped each filly. They floated into the air in the middle of the other ponies. A gem emerged from the center of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Their armors vanished, and three gems encircle the shadow.

Green eyes locked onto them. Thin beams of glistening light connected each crystal shard. Princess Cadence and Shining Armor focused on the Crystal heart, sending its magic towards the gems. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna followed suit.

King Sombra materialize inside a magical cage created by the gems. The deafening sound from his hooves pounding against the walls of the crystal cage echoed in the ponies' ears.

"Go back from whence you came, King Sombra. Never plague these ponies with your heinous actions again!" Princess Star said, leading a final charge.

The gem in the unicorn stallion's horn shattered as he screamed. His ethereal prison collapsed on him, and a dark red gem fell to the ground. Princess Star levitated the crystal in front of her before materializing a box. After the gem was placed inside, the box disappeared.

Cheers and roars of applause erupted from the freed unicorn, pegasi, and earth ponies. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo fell backwards, being caught by their big sisters. Princess Luna smiled at the three fillies, along with her sister.

"Did. We. Win?" Scootaloo panted.

"Yea squirt. We won." Rainbow Dash said with a smile.

"You three have performed admirably." Princess Celestia said. She walked toward the Cutie Mark Crusaders, giving them a profound bow. "If it weren't for your efforts, our victory could not have been achieved."

Applejack placed her hat on top of Apple Bloom's head. Granny Smith patted the filly on the back while Big Macintosh stood near her side. "Thanks ya'll."

"Your efforts were superb, Sweetie Belle." Rarity said as she levitated her little sister onto her back.

Twilight smiled at her friends. She raised an eyebrow, "Wait. You turned yourself back to normal, Princess Celestia?"

"Yes, sister. I would like the particulars behind that as well." Princess Luna said.

"All of us have questions. Isn't that correct?" Princess Celestia said as she turned toward Princess Star. "You seem familiar to me."

Princess Star nodded. She raised her hoof at the blinding light that came from the defeated changelings. Tears welled up in her eyes. "My little star ponies..."

"Princess?" One pony said, stepping forward. The mare rubbed her forehead. She looked behind her, and then towards Princess Star. "Is the nightmare over? Are we free?"

"Yes." Princess Star said.

*** *** ***

Ponies crowded the Canterlot Gardens, banquet room, and throne room. Fresh tapestries hung in the Canterlot Castle throne room. Brilliant moonlight came through the cleaned, repaired, stained glass windows. A new window was fitted into a space; the stained glass window depicted three fillies with beams of light coming from their chests, targeting a vicious shadow with green eyes.

Apple Bloom chuckled at Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. The three chased one another around the Canterlot Garden. They stopped, gave a sheepish grin towards Twilight, and stood on top of the platform near her.

"I'd like to welcome one and all to the second annual, Fall Fling Festival." Twilight said. She nodded to the fillies that stood near her. "Also, I dedicate this event to the one year anniversary since the triumphant victory of the Cutie Mark Crusaders over King Sombra. If it weren't for their efforts, we would not be here today to celebrate this event. Here's to a bright and hopeful future."

Cheers and adulation erupted from the crowd in front of the group. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo darted towards their big sisters. Twilight descended the steps and looked up to her big brother, and Princess Cadence.

Princess Celestia walked towards the group, waving a polite hoof at them. She smiled as Princess Luna and Princess Star stood by her side.

"Hi... mom." Princess Cadence said.

"Still awkward, honey?" Shining Armor said.

Princess Cadence smiled at Shining Armor. She raised her hoof and pressed it against Princess Star's raised hoof.

"If you want it to be like old times, I could turn into Queen Chrysalis and try to steal Shining Armor from you." Princess Star said, sticking her tongue out at Princess Cadence.

"Mom, your embarrassing me." Princess Cadence said, blushing.

Princess Star rubbed a gentle hoof against her daughter's mane. As Princess Cadence walked toward the Cutie Mark Crusaders, soon introducing the fillies to her new son and daughter, the princess wiped away a slight tear. Her gentle smile reflected off of Princess Celestia's eyes.

Princess Celestia placed a gentle wing over the pony at her side. "I may have lost those cherished memories about you, but that doesn't mean we can't forge new ones."

"Yo, watch this!" Rainbow Dash said.

"Don't you dare, Rainbow Dash. That dress took forever to get right." Rarity said, her words going unheeded.

The ponies chuckled at their friend's exasperation. Above, three succinct booms happened, followed by three circular rainbows.

Scootaloo gazed on in awe. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom cheered at the pegasus who came down. Twilight cheered her friend on with Fluttershy giving a quiet, polite "yea" to her. Pinkie Pie raised her hoof, and then gulped down a cupcake still in her mouth after a nudge from Applejack.

Princess Star smiled as the night carried on, soon holding her grandchildren in a gentle magical grasp. She laid on the ground near the little foals who played with one another. "Apple Bloom. Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo. I know it's been said before, numerous times for that matter, but I thank you again for what you have done. If it weren't for your actions, my star ponies would never have been freed, and I would have remained cursed."

"No problem." Scootaloo said, Rainbow Dash coming behind her.

"We're glad to help out." Sweetie Belle said, Rarity placing a gentle hoof over her shoulder.

Apple Bloom nodded to Princess Star while Granny Smith, Applejack, and Big Macintosh stood behind her. She tilted her head and raised an eyebrow at Princess Star. "Ya seem pretty quiet tonight."

Several "oos" and "ahhs" came from the crowd of ponies. Stars traipsed across the sky, their brilliant tails illuminating the gardens below.

"Made my wish!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders said to one another.

"What ya wish for?" Apple Bloom said as she faced Princess Star.

"A selfish wish." Princess Star said, ending with a slight chuckle.

"What is it, my dear star?" Princess Celestia said as Princess Luna, Princess Cadence, Shining Armor and the others came behind her.

"To be happy." Princess Star said.

Rainbow Dash shook her head, "A little sappy there. Besides, there's no fun if things aren't 'exciting.'"

"I couldn't agree more," Princess Star said, mimicking Queen Chrysalis's voice. The ponies snickered at the athletic pegasus who bolted into the nearby tree. In a quiet voice the princess said to herself, "With all my heart, I wish that these happy times will never end."