Equestrian Civil War - An Alternate Universe

by twotonedearly

Rating: teen
Tags: Discord, Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Alternate Universe, Princess Luna, Adventure
Length: 22739

AU Story: Twilight Sparkle has been assassinated but what if she survived?

A AU take based on Rated Ponystar's fanfic series The Assassination of Twilight Sparkle and it's sequel Aftermath of a Fallen Star.

Twilight Sparkle has been assassinated in a conspiracy started by power hungry nobles, Princess Celestia attempts to revive her but fails, but what if her spell worked? What if Twilight Sparkle awoke just before the Civil War begins?

all OCs featured from the original story (c) their respective owners.

Published 2015-11-22 18:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2024-07-24 11:45:12 UTC

Chapter 1 - Twilight Awakens

It was midnight as the moonlight shined over Equestria, though dark times were abound after the murder of Twilight Sparkle, the princess of friendship. Her death at the hooves of nobles whom feared her ideas and refusal to accept change led to a conspiracy to murder the new princess. Her body laid at rest in the memorial garden per order of her mentor Princess Celestia. As midnight hit however Twilight's body which had remained frozen at rest began to move. “mm...” Twilight groaned as her eyes suddenly opened. “Wh... where am I?” Twilight began to get up before her head hit the lid of the coffin. “Wh... What's going on here??” Twilight freaked as she pounded on the lid with her hooves. “Hello?!” she cried out before remembering her magic. Her horn lit up as she used her magic as the lid was suddenly blasted off. Twilight stumbled out of the coffin. Her legs were wobbly as she coughed as she felt her body adjusting to being alive again.

“What happened to me? Last thing I remember was....... the guards! Gallant heart!” It all hit Twilight like a swarm of parasprites. The guards that stormed her room and attacked her, the burning sensation of the Orichalcum blades piercing her skin, Gallant's face being the last before he slit her throat. The look of regret he showed her, the last thing she saw before everything went black. She felt like she was in limbo.

“Can it be? Twilight Sparkle back from the dead??” Came a familiar voice. Twilight turned around as Discord hovered behind her.

“Discord, if this is your doing...” Twilight glared at the Draconequus. Discord shook his head as he looked at Twilight seeing her alive and well.

“If it were my doing you'd still be dead as a door nail inside that casket of yours. But it wasn't, besides I partake in constructive chaos, not destructive chaos.” Discord replied. “Everypony in Equestria will be happy to see you, well not exactly everypony. Those so called heroes against the tyranny of the princesses will not be happy to see you.” Discord noticed Twilight wobbling. “I see the rigor mortis is wearing off. You should rest after your ordeal.” he suggested to Twilight.

“Discord what's been going on since I was... I mean... You know.” Twilight couldn't find the right words to explain her own situation let alone wonder what Discord was talking about.

“Not here, we don't need them to hear us or know your alive and well.” Discord snapped his claw as he and Twilight vanished from sight. Some time later Gladius Strife happened to be on patrol in the area, after a long talk with Princess Celestia over the uprising and the rumors of Civil War, he knew this was all bad and he knew his brother Gallant Heart and his allies were the cause of the rot that could end up killing Equestria itself. He decided to visit Twilight Sparkle's grave to pray for forgiveness from Faust herself for what his family had done.

“I can only hope and pray Faust guides us out of these....” Gladius froze in his tracks as his eyes went wide seeing the shattered coffin lid and no sign of Twilight's body anywhere. “Oh sweet Faust!” he cried as he galloped off to summon the guards. Soon the area was swarming with patrols of both the Solar and Lunar Guards. Princess Luna stood close by the grave site wondering who could be terrible enough to violate this sacred place, close by a devastated Princess Celestia stood unsure how to respond to this though the guards, Gladius included knew she was infuriated at this sudden turn of events.

“Sister? Tia?” Luna approached her sister showing concern. “We'll find whoever did this, and they will pay.” she told her sibling.

“They will Luna.” Celestia replied.

“Celestia? Your highness?” Gladius asked with a hint of fear in his voice. Celestia's eyes were white as she was enraged, she had an idea whom was behind this.

“FIND THOSE ROTTEN WORMS BEHIND THE UPRISING AND BRING THEM TO ME! I WANT ALL OF THEIR HEADS FOR THIS BLAITANT DESACRATION OF MY LATE STUDENT'S GRAVE!!!” Celestia shouted in the royal voice, this was all the guards needed to hear as they rushed off. “First they took my student's life, then my school, now my student's dead body...” Celestia was trembling as Luna went to comfort her.

“Tia we'll find those snakes and make them regret this foul action of theirs.” Luna told her sister.

“I hope for Faust's sake they do find Twilight's body and those monsters who took her.” Celestia fumed, it would be a while till she calmed down. She knew the nobles whom fled her wrath might have commissioned this personal assault on Twilight's grave. All she wanted now was to smash those traitors even if it meant hunting them down like dogs to punish them.

Meanwhile at Ponyville, Discord and Twilight appeared in the library. Twilight looked around feeling relieved to be back at home as she made her way to a chair and sat down in it still feeling uneasy. “Discord, I have to tell Princess Celestia I'm back before something worse happens.” Twilight told Discord as she felt her senses all rushing at once, she felt a tightness in her stomach and aches and pains in her muscles, all signs of her body fully reactivating itself after being dormant for a long time.

“Yes, but not now, your barely in any shape as it is to speak to Celestia let alone face whatever it is those nobles have planned for Equestria.” Discord told Twilight as she nodded her head.

“I guess you're right. I feel so sick right now, must have been from my hibernation I guess.” Twilight rubbed her head before she felt something land on her head, she looked up and smiled to see her pet owl Owlicius on her head. “Hey Owlicius, I'm glad to see you.” she said to the nocturnal bird, Twilight felt something drip on her face as she noticed tears running down the owl's face. “I know, I missed you too.” Twilight told her pet.

“Yeah, everypony else did too.” Discord stood at the window. “Fluttershy couldn't stop herself from crying so much when you died, same with Rarity and Pinkie Pie, Applejack tried to force herself to work so hard till she finally broke down and mourned you, and Rainbow Dash, she almost joined you in the afterlife.” Discord said.

“She almost committed suicide??” Twilight asked as she had a look of shock. Rainbow Dash almost killing herself? She knew her friendship with the rainbow maned Pegasus was deep but she didn't think Rainbow Dash would take her "death" this hard.

“Well not intentionally, she drunk herself nearly to death. Cost her that golden opportunity she wanted with the Wonderbolts.” Discord answered.

“All because of them.... those rotten scumbag nobles, Blueblood especially.” Twilight growled thinking of Blueblood, that arrogant prick who was jealous she was an Alicorn and he wasn't. Twilight hated Blueblood and his father Amadeus as well for what he said, turning Twilight's words into venomous lies. Forcing her into tears due to his silver tongue. “Still can't believe Gallant Heart was in on their plan to kill me.” Twilight sunk down in her chair and sighed.

“Friend of yours?” Discord asked

“A bit but he was best friends with my BBBFF Shining Armor.” Twilight answered Discord's question. “He and his little brother Gladius Strife were best friends with Shining, yeah they were friends with me too. Gallant even was my brother's best stallion at his wedding too.” Twilight felt a tear run down her face thinking of Gallant's betrayal of her and her family. It hurt her so much to think somepony she trusted could betray her. “Worse, he looked like he was apologizing before he slit my throat and killed me.” Twilight wiped the tear away with her hoof.

“Really now? Remorse? Or was he worried his actions would end up destroying him and his family?” Discord pondered.

“I don't know, all of this doesn't make any sense. Discord gather the others and bring them here. We need to prepare for the worse.” Twilight told Discord as she got up out of the chair and started upstairs, Discord nodded his head and vanished from sight. “I got a bad feeling about all of this. And how was it I survived if I was dead?” Twilight pondered as she entered the bedroom, she stopped as she noticed how messy the place was. “Spike.” Twilight's thoughts were on the baby dragon as she looked at his empty basket. “Guess he's with Rarity or the Cakes, hopefully he'll come along too.” Twilight settled into her bed and fell asleep.

Morning soon came as Twilight awoke feeling the warmth of the sun's rays. She yawned and headed off to get cleaned up before waiting for the others to arrive, she didn't want anybody to see her alive yet. After what Discord said she didn't want to think somepony would hate her, well other than the likes of Queen Chrysalis and King Sombra. Though Sombra was banished for good and Chrysalis was dead so she had no worries about them. “I should get breakfast.” Twilight headed off though she caught herself, there was no kitchen in the library and she didn't want everypony to see her alive and risk her haters coming to Ponyville and harming innocent lives. “How could it have gotten so bad?” Twilight wondered to herself, maybe a change of reality was in order, she probably would surprise Sunset Shimmer though did she know what happened in the past few years? Twilight had no clue as she sat and began to read. She stopped when she heard sounds outside and took a look out the window just in time to see three colts running off. Twilight recognized them as students of Ms.Cheerilee's. “I hope they don't blow my cover.” Twilight muttered to herself.

Meanwhile at the school yard the three colts whom had seen Twilight in the window looked afraid. “I didn't know her ghost was haunting the library!” said one of the colts, the one wearing the propeller hat. This was Button Mash, he along with Featherweight and Pipsqueak were dared by Silver Spoon to go into the library alone, Featherweight went with his camera to take pictures as evidence of them being there despite the childish rumors of it being haunted. However to them it wasn't a rumor.

“You don't think her ghost is here to punish us like Celestia did those ponies that killed her do you?” Pipsqueak asked nervously.

“Hey, what are y'all up ta?” Came a female voice as Applebloom approached, she was one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders alongside her best friends Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.

“We got dared to go into the abandoned library and we saw her! We saw Princess Twilight!” Featherweight answered

“Wha?! Ah heard those butchers murdered her. At least that's how Granny Smith says it.” Applebloom felt a chill down her spine, her voice alerted Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle to see what was up.

“Hey what's this about Twilight?” Scootaloo asked.

“We saw her ghost, it was looking right at us from the window!” Button Mash answered.

“Her ghost??” Sweetie Belle gulped hearing this.

“Yeah, she looked mad.” Button Mash confirmed what the CMCs were fearing. The school bell started to ring as the fillies and colts headed inside. Diamond Tiara had overheard the conversation and wondered if it was true if the library was haunted.

Meanwhile Discord had been making his rounds as he appeared to the other element bearers, the first was Fluttershy whom Discord convinced to go with him to the library for a moment of remembrance for Twilight, he also was able to convince Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack. His work done he appeared at the library and waited, sure enough the element bearers arrived on schedule. “Ah, you made it in time.” Discord said with a grin.

“Ah never seen Discord this jolly in a while, not since them rotten monsters murdered Twilight.” Applejack spoke up as she can still remember that day when she and the others learned of Twilight's death.

“Yeah, what gives Discord? You didn't call us here for nothing right?” Rainbow Dash asked as she hovered in the air.

“Yeah, it doesn't even look like a party. Maybe I can go get some cakes from Sugar Cube Corner to brighten the mood.” Pinkie Pie bounced as she wanted to make this happier instead of being sad.

“I really wish something could erase that horrible tragedy and the horrors it's brought.” Rarity let out a sigh, she had heard about her boutique chain in Canterlot going through hard times due to the nobles' influence. She wanted to prove a point to them that she can go on despite their whining. “I just wish Spike was still here, ever since he ran away I've grown worried about him.” Rarity let out another sigh, she indeed was worried about Spike and his where a bouts.

“Yeah, after Twi's funeral he just flipped out. Ah'm worried about him too.” Applejack spoke up as well.

“I kinda wish he would have come and stayed with me and Discord.” Fluttershy lowered her head.

“Ah think we better go inside and have this memorial for Twi, ah know she'd want us ta remember her for all she did for us and for Equestria, not for the false image them bucking cowards painted her as.” Applejack spat obviously referring to the nobles and of course Prince Blueblood. The others all agreed as Discord let them inside the library.

“Oh my! Has the library really gone this long without a care taker?” Rarity gasped seeing a lot of dust and cobwebs everywhere, a few scorch marks were on the wall, signs of Spike letting his rage out.

“Indeed.” Discord moved away from the group. Upstairs Twilight heard voices and gasped. Somepony was inside the library, and if they saw her it could get out and she couldn't let that happen. Before she could move Discord appeared to Twilight.

“Discord, who's downstairs?” Twilight asked Discord quietly

“Why your friends, I'm sure you'd want to see them again.” Discord answered Twilight. The Alicorn sighed in relief.

“I'm sure they'll be happy to see me.” Twilight responded as she and Discord headed downstairs. She saw her friends and smiled.

“Ah! Discord! Behind you! It's a ghost!” Rainbow Dash cried out.

“What in tarnation??” Applejack also said in surprise and shock.

“Oh this?” Discord chuckled. “I'm afraid your a bit wrong Rainbow Dash.” the Draconequus chuckled some more.

“I'm not a ghost guys.” Twilight approached her friends. "It's really me, in the flesh." the alicorn tried to explain.

“T..Twilight??” Rainbow Dash hovered over to Twilight and touched her with her hoof. “Oh my Faust...” her lip trembled as tears welled up in her eyes. “Twi! It is you! You're alive!!” the pegasus cried as she hugged her friend. The others soon joined in the hugging and crying tears of joy.

“Guys, I missed you too...” Twilight said to her friends as her voice was choked up. They backed up to give her space.

“Twi, we all thought you were dead... but how??” Applejack asked.

“Yes, we all saw you inside that coffin. It was so hard on us, even Spike.” Rarity added on.

“I can't explain it myself. All I remember was seeing Gallant Heart's face before everything went black. Next thing I know I wake up inside that glass coffin. Discord helped me back here after I escaped my own tomb.” Twilight began.

“I bet that smug bucker was smiling a smile that could put the Mane-iac to shame.” Rainbow Dash growled.

“It was more of a look of sorrow. Gallant was a friend of my family's, mostly my brother's best friend and his best stallion at his wedding. It hurt me in my final hours that he'd kill me.” Twilight lowered her head.

“Sorrow?? Why would that low down side winder be sorry fer killing ya? He was stone faced through the trial.” Applejack was dumb founded.

“Yeah, and believe me I wanted to buck Blueblood's face off for calling you Princess Celestia's mess cleaner and even went as far as to say he was more worthy of being an alicorn than you were Twi. Shining Armor wanted to kill him had Cadence not held him back.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight.

“And to think I liked him. Shows the old saying is true about judging a book by it's cover.” Rarity added on.

“I do need to go to my parents, and my brother and let them know I'm back. But I can't let them know I'm alive.” Twilight told her friends.

“Ya mean them snobs trying ta spark civil war?” Applejack asked.

“Civil War?? I know I was gone but I had no idea they wanted civil war.” Twilight couldn't believe what she heard.

“Yeah, hey Twi. Before we all thought you were murdered I... I wanna apologize for some of the things I said. That wasn't me talking but rather the cider talking. Stupid addiction got me kicked out of the Wonderbolts Academy.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight.

“It's okay Rainbow. I know that wasn't you talking at all.” Twilight told Rainbow Dash before she felt Pinkie Pie hug her tightly. “Pinkie?” Twilight noticed Pinkie's mane was flat as was her tail.

“Twi! I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!” Pinkie Pie bawled her eyes out.

“Pinkie, what's going on?” Twilight asked as she looked at the pink mare's tear stained face.

“It was my family that gave Blueblood the Orichalcum that they used to murder you! I know Marble didn't mean it, that rat fink got her drunk and she blabbed it to him!” Pinkie cried

“What?!” Rainbow Dash shouted, Applejack was stunned silent hearing this. Rarity and Fluttershy were both frozen in shock hearing this. Even Discord was shocked when this info came out.

“Pinkie I don't believe it. Did your sisters and parents know?” Twilight asked.

“No, they didn't know till after they stole the Orichalcum.” Pinkie Pie sniffled.

“Ah can't believe it...” Applejack was still stunned.

“Why didn't your parents...... ugh why didn't your sisters stand up to those killers?!” Rainbow Dash said out of frustration.

“Rainbow! They had no idea they would try to kill me. As of right now if they knew I was alive they'd try to kill me again.” Twilight spoke as the voice of reason. “There's so much to do. I need a way into Canterlot to tell the princesses and my parents I'm alive and well, then I'll cut the head off the snake and stop this civil war before it can start.” Twilight told her friends. “Wait, where's Spike?” Twilight asked her friends.

“He ran away, he was so heartbroken after your death he refused to talk to any of us. He locked the library and we can hear him screaming and swearing.. it hurt all of us to see him like that. Recently he ran away and told no pony where he's gone.” Rarity explained, Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, I couldn't even find him no matter where I flew at. Not to mention with all this tension going on.” Rainbow Dash let out a sigh. “We'll find him Twi. He needs to know your back too.” she said to Twilight whom nodded.

“I'm trusting you guys to find Spike, Discord I need your help to warp me to Canterlot.” Twilight said to everybody in the group. Discord whom had seen the emotion in the room approached Twilight.

“Consider it done, I'm sure the tears shed here won't compare to the tears Celestia will shed to see you alive and well.” Discord snapped his claw as he and Twilight vanished, the others rushed off hoping to find Spike though he could be anywhere in Equestria.

Chapter 2 - Reunions and the coming of War

“We're here!” Discord exclaimed as he and Twilight Sparkle appeared in Celestia's garden within the castle walls. The two had left Ponyville via teleportation and had arrived in Canterlot.

“Better hide myself.” Twilight used her magic to make a hood and cloak form around her body hiding herself. “Don't want any spies for Blueblood's allies knowing I'm alive.” she said as she and Discord headed inside toward the throne room. “Still can't believe everypony bought what Amadeus was selling, after all me and my friends did to save Equestria so many times, bringing Princess Luna back from being corrupted as Nightmare Moon, stopping you back when you were evil Discord.” Twilight continued as she looked over at Discord seeing him wince. “No offense of course.” she said.

“Oh, none taken. Besides I always wanted somebody who can rival my chaotic nature and you were the best. Believe me it hurt me more to hear of your “demise” than it did your friends.” Discord responded.

“Anyhow, we even helped the Crystal Empire banish King Sombra and we even helped Princess Cadence unmask Queen Chrysalis and save my brother Shining Armor. Even after we stopped Tirek and Starlight Glimmer they still saw me as a threat..” Twilight let out a frustrated sigh.

“Well you can't expect everypony to respect you my dear. Mostly the Bluebloods and the snobs they were in cahoots with.” Discord told Twilight.

“Yeah, right now we need to get to the throne room and hope the Princesses are there.” Twilight continued on as she and Discord arrived at the throne room entrance, they could overhear a conversation going on.

“Your highness, we've searched several possible hideouts and no sign of those cowards. We'll double our efforts to recover Princess Twilight's body.” the solar guard saluted and took his leave.

“I hope and pray to Faust they recover my student's body.” Princess Celestia let out a frustrated sigh.

“They will sister, we mustn't lose hope.” Princess Luna focused on her sister as Gladius Strife entered the throne room passing by Discord and the disguised Twilight without even noticing them both.

“Princess Celestia how are you holding up?” Gladius asked as he showed concern toward Princess Celestia.

“Not good unfortunately. Twilight's body is out there and in the hooves of those blasted traitors.. if they harm or defile her body in anyway...” Celestia trembled with rage. “Faust help their treacherous souls.” she coldly warned.

“Ooh, is that rage I detect Sun butt?” Came Discord's voice as the Draconequus appeared beside Celestia's throne, the sun princess shot a glare at Discord.

“Discord, I'm not in the mood for your tricks right now.” Celestia glared at Discord.

“I couldn't help but overhear your prized student's grave was desecrated, or is that the rumor going on these days?” Discord asked, he smirked seeing Celestia tremble with rage. “Easy now Princess, we don't need you dropping dead from a heart attack or a stroke.” Discord warned the angered Princess.

“DISCORD YOU SPEAK OF TWILIGHT'S GRAVE BEING DESECRATED AGAIN AND SO HELP ME I'LL SEAL YOU AWAY FOR GOOD!!” Celestia shouted with the royal voice.

“Tia, please calm yourself.” Princess Luna went over to her sister trying to calm her down.

“Celestia please, did you even bother to examine the coffin lid?” Discord asked Princess Celestia. “Cause if you didn't then you would have missed it.” he explained to the princess.

“Missed what??” Celestia asked still glaring at Discord.

“I think I'll let my guest here explain what happened to Twilight Sparkle's grave.” Discord motioned for Twilight to approach, the alicorn was still in her hood as Gladius Strife approached her.

“And just whom might you be?” Gladius asked the hooded figure.

“Gladius it's been a long time, I remember when you and Gallant Heart used to hang out with my brother Shining armor.” Twilight responded, Gladius's eyes went wide hearing a voice he had thought was silenced by his brother and his terrorist allies.

“That voice.... Tia is it possible??” Princess Luna was frozen in shock when she heard the hooded mare's voice. Celestia trembled as her eyes watered as she approached the hooded figure.

“Twilight??” Princess Celestia asked, her voice was choked up as she fought back tears.

“It's me Princess Celestia.” Twilight removed her hood revealing herself. “I'm back.” she told her mentor, Princess Celestia felt her legs buckle before she hugged her student and wailed loudly as tears streamed down her face. Gladius was still frozen in shock, Princess Luna wiped tears from her own eyes.

“It's a miracle from Queen Faust herself.” Princess Luna said. Discord had a wide grin on his face.

“Oh my beloved Twilight, but how?? how is this possible?? I saw you dead, I tried to heal you but I saw the blood gushing from your wounds. How did you survive??” Princess Celestia released Twilight as she wiped her eyes.

“I can't explain it fully but somehow I was in a state of hibernation. To everypony else I was dead.” Twilight Sparkle explained.

“Tia, you used a healing spell?” Luna asked Celestia whom nodded.

“I did, the strongest I could muster.” Celestia responded.

“Of course, now I think I understand why it took so long for me to fully heal and come out of my hibernation. It had to be the Orichalcum those traitors used on me.” Twilight explained.

“Orichalcum?!” Both princesses said at the same time.

“Yes, I've done some alchemy experiments on Orichalcum, it has properties to null magic but it seemed your healing spell must have remained inside my body. I suspect the magic properties of the orichalcum tried to null the heal spell Princess Celestia cast on me, though I believe the power Princess Celestia poured into the spell eventually overpowered the orichalcum's effects but it took along time. I still can't believe Blueblood got his filthy hooves on Orichalcum to have me killed.” Twilight explained.

“It makes perfect sense to me. But where did he get the Orichalcum from?” Princess Celestia asked, somehow the answer would be just as shocking.

“They stole it from the Pie Family's rock farm. Pinkie and her family can confirm it.” Twilight answered.

“I had a feeling that was why Blueblood was interested in the Pie Family's rock stand at the rock festival.” Princess Celestia recalled the festival and the rock samples the Pie family had shown off. “I had no clue they had orichalcum as one of their samples.” she said as she turned to Princess Luna.

“And they knew how to gain the weapon they needed to assault Twilight, the Pie family aren't responsible for what Blueblood did, besides Blueblood and his ilk paid for their sins when they were burned at the stake.” Princess Luna told her sister.

“Princess Twilight?” Gladius approached Twilight as he bowed to her. “I'm sorry I couldn't stop my brother.” he told Twilight. “I'm glad he failed.” he said.

“Gladius, your brother didn't want to do it. I can tell from the sad look on his face.” Twilight told Gladius.

“Gallant Heart showing sorrow? He hardly showed it at the trial.” Princess Celestia spoke up. Princess Luna let out a sigh.

“Twilight, Tia, I....I have a confession to make.” Princess Luna lowered her head.

“Luna?” Princess Celestia turned to her sister.

“I knew what was about to happen, I should have acted when I had the chance.” Princess Luna said. Twilight, Gladius, Celestia, even Discord were shocked to hear this. “But if I did it would have endangered Gallant Heart's mission.” Luna explained.

“What mission?? What are you talking about??” Gladius asked Luna.

“Gallant was working for me by going undercover to infiltrate Blueblood's group. Tia, I knew something had to be done about those blasted nobles and I knew you wouldn't approve of my methods either.” Princess Luna felt like banishing herself to the moon.

“Luna, sister.” Celestia went over to Luna seeing the tears in her eyes. “I know what you wanted to do and I cannot blame you. I too grew sick of those nobles and their thirst for power but I never imagined they would try to harm Twilight.” Celestia went to the window as she could see the sun as it was in the sky.

“Princess Luna no pony is mad at you, they must have found out about Gallant Heart working for you. It could explain why he was so full of regret.” Twilight approached the night princess.

“Very wise words Twilight. But it does sound like they forced his hooves.” Discord added in as he looked over at Celestia.

“Only Gallant Heart knew that and he's gone, I heard he was executed along with Blueblood.” Twilight sighed a bit.

“Twilight what will you do now?” Gladius asked Twilight.

“Princess Celestia, can you summon my brother Shining Armor and Princess Cadence?” Twilight asked Princess Celestia whom nodded. She soon sent a messenger to the Crystal Empire to summon Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. The two had been informed of Twilight's grave being broken into, Shining Armor threatened war with everypony involved with Blueblood's conspiracy though many had fled Equestria and many more were either arrested or killed. The messenger soon arrived with a message from Princess Celestia.

“Shining what is it?” Princess Cadence asked her husband. She approached her husband as he read the note.

“Seems your aunt Celestia wants us to go to Canterlot, it's urgent.” Shining Armor told his wife, the two soon headed off to Canterlot. Once in the station they were met by Gladius Strife whom nodded to the royal family as he escorted them toward the castle. “Gladius, what's this about? Did they find the bastards that defiled Twiley's grave?” Shining Armor asked Gladius.

“It's more than that.” Gladius responded as the trio entered the castle. Gladius led them into the throne room where Princess Luna and Princess Celestia were waiting at.

“Aunt Luna, Aunt Celestia, is there a problem?” Princess Cadence addressed her aunts.

“We have a shocking revelation about Twilight.” Princess Celestia answered.

“You found her body??” Shining Armor asked. “I hope so, it'll settle mom down after hearing about Twi's grave being robbed.” he said.

“It's more than that BBBFF.” Came Twilight's voice as she stepped out from behind Princess Celestia's throne.

“T-T-Twiley!?” Shining Armor stood in shock, Princess Cadence stared before she suddenly fainted, luckily for her Shining caught her with his magic and set her down carefully. “But how??” he asked as tears ran down his face.

“Princess Celestia, her cure spell healed my body yet it took a long time before I was healed enough to awaken. A side effect of being stabbed and having my throat slit with Orichalcum.” Twilight told her brother before Shining hugged her.

“Twiley, thank Faust your alive.” Shining Armor told his sister. Cadence began to awaken as she looked to her husband.

“Shining? Am I hallucinating?” Cadence asked her husband

“Nope Cadence, your not.” Twilight answered her sister in law as Cadence stood up looking at Twilight.

“But we saw you dead. How can I be sure your real?” Cadence asked Twilight.

“This might convince you.” Twilight responded “Sunshine, sunshine, lady bugs awake.” Twilight began, it was her greeting she always gave her sister in law back when she was her foal sitter. Cadence gasped, tears ran down her face hearing the greeting.

“C-clap your h-hooves, and do a little shake..... Twilight it is you!” Cadence hugged her sister in law as she cried.

“We need to tell mom and dad, and Twinklestar.” Shining wiped the tears from his eyes as he watched his wife hug his sister.

“Yeah we... wait, who's Twinklestar?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, that's right. Twinklestar is our sister.” Shining armor told Twilight, this shocked the younger Alicorn to hear this.

“We have a sister??” Twilight asked out of amazement.

“Yeah, she has my fur color but your mane colors. Mom's been very protective of her not even allowing Princess Celestia near her.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“I could understand why, she didn't want her being targeted like I was. I'd like to meet her.” Twilight told Shining Armor whom nods as Twilight turned to Princess Celestia. “I'll be back soon Princess. I need to see my parents and sister.” she told Princess Celestia whom nods. Soon Twilight and Shining Armor headed toward their childhood home, Twilight again wearing her hood to keep her presence a mystery. “Shining, I still can't think of why every pony would listen to a monster like Amadeus Blueblood and reject what I've said. After all my friends and I did to help Equestria time and time again against the likes of Nightmare Moon, Discord, Queen Chrysalis, King Sombra, Tirek, even Starlight Glimmer. Even after we purified Princess Luna, reformed Discord, Sunset Shimmer, and Starlight Glimmer they still don't trust us. Worse was the feeling of betrayal from Gallant Heart.” Twilight lowered her head.

“Twiley, not all of Equestria are hypocrites like Amadeus and the nobles. But I swear I'll see Amadeus hanged for what he had his goons do to you.” Shining Armor told Twilight. “Gallant didn't want to do it but they held his brother's life over his head.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“What?!” Twilight snapped to attention as she looked at her brother. “Why didn't you tell Princess Celestia or Princess Luna??” she asked.

“He was undercover, if I had told them then his cover would have been blown.” Shining Armor responded. “Besides he told me when I talked to him before he was executed.” Shining told Twilight as the two came to a stop, ironically outside Donut joe's place.

“Obviously his cover was blown if they had Gladius and forced Gallant to attack me.” Twilight said to her brother. “Right now I want to focus on meeting my sister and seeing mom and dad. Then we need to work to stop the Civil War before it can start.” the alicorn said with determination.

“i couldn't agree more Twiley. I understand he wanted to protect his little brother like I would do for both you and Twinklestar.” Shining Armor told Twilight whom nodded.

“I understand too, I wish he could have conveyed that message to me before he slit my throat. What about Flash Sentry? How did he take my “passing”? Twilight asked, she remembered the guard who had a crush on her.

“Twi, he took it hard. So hard he.. he took his own life trying to follow you.” Shining Armor told Twilight, the princess couldn't believe it.

“I knew he loved me.... I didn't think he'd...” Twilight lowered her head, she remembered meeting Flash after her adventure in the human world and meeting Flash's human counterpart, she had developed a crush on Flash's human counterpart then focused it more on his pony counterpart. “I never got to tell him how I felt about him...” Twilight felt tears run down her face as Shining Armor hugged her.

“I know, this is more blood on the nobles' hooves and I'll be more than happy to see them suffer for everything they've done to you and our family.” Shining Armor told Twilight whom looked up at her brother.

“Shining Armor, I... I didn't want this much violence to happen to everypony.. Was I wrong to force such changes on everypony??” Twilight began to have doubts.

“No Twiley, it wasn't your fault those idiots didn't want to accept change. All I've heard from those two-faced traitors was nothing short of hatred and rage. Made me wish Amadeus would have done something for me to go after him.” Shining Armor tried to comfort Twilight though he felt helpless to stop Amadeus Blueblood and his conspirators.

“I know, I never imagined his son Prince Blueblood would beat him to it, by trying to have me assassinated.” Twilight told her brother.

“No, I got reason to suspect Amadeus. Gallant himself told me a lot more than I've told you.” Shining Armor responded before he looked around to make sure no pony was listening to them. He then noticed they were at Donut Joe's and suddenly had an idea. “Inside, we won't be noticed.” he told Twilight as they entered the shop. Once inside they made their way to a private booth. Donut Joe noticed the two and went to see if they wanted something.

“Ah Prince Shining Armor, and a guest. I surely hope your not going behind Princess Cadence's back.” Donut Joe said as he looked at the disguised Twilight.

“Relax Joe, and can you keep a secret?” Shining Armor asked.

“Sure.” Joe answered.

“My sister's body wasn't robbed like it's been reported. She's sitting across from me.” Shining Armor said in a hush tone. Joe's eyes widened as he looked at Twilight whom nodded.

“It's all true. Just don't go telling all of Equestria, I don't want to be assassinated again.” Twilight told Joe.

“Oh sweet Faust! Princess Twilight! If Equestria needed you, now is that time.” Joe said in a hushed voice as he quickly went to prepare Twilight's favorite donuts.

“So BBBFF, what was it you wanted to tell me?” Twilight asked Shining Armor.

“Blueblood only had you assassinated cause he was pushed into doing it. Gallant told me a lot of things. He told me who the mastermind of this whole conspiracy was.” Shining Armor began as he let out a sigh.

“Who was it?” Twilight asked. She had to know if her hunch was right all along.

“Amadeus, he was the one who commissioned your death. Gallant told me that Amadeus and his crooked guards were in his home.” Shining told Twilight, he could see his sister's eyes widen hearing that name.

“I knew it! I knew Amadeus hated me, but I never suspected he'd hate me enough to kill me. That means Prince Blueblood was a patsy.” Twilight growled as her horn lit up.

“So was Gallant, they told him to kill you or Gladius would die instead. He had no choice in the matter. Didn't help Blueblood was doubting his actions which I believe Amadeus wanted things to happen quickly, he even knew Gallant was a double agent and told him to hurry Blueblood's plot. The bastard knew Gallant was working for Luna but the question was how did he know?” Shining Armor said, his words left for more questions than answers.

“To think that scumbag Amadeus compared me to Queen Chrysalis, he's proven to me how much he compares to her. No pony can be as cruel as her and yet Amadeus proved that to me.” Twilight said as she looked at her brother. “Does Gladius know the whole truth?” Twilight asked.

“No, I doubt he even knew his own life was in danger.” Shining Armor answered his sister's question.

“He knows part of it, Princess Luna confessed about her own plan to undermine the nobles to Princess Celestia after I returned, she told Gladius that Gallant was working for her.” Twilight told Shining Armor, this both surprised him and shocked him.

“Did Princess Celestia do anything?” Shining Armor asked.

“No, though she had to calm Luna down, she felt so guilty of holding that secret back and when she saw me alive it came out.” Twilight answered her brother. “What worries me is if my return got out and how many of those traitors would try to kill me just to show up Amadeus, to let him see his plot failed.” Twilight sighed.

“That won't happen Twiley, I failed to protect you once, I swear this time I won't fail.” Shining Armor told his sister. “The nobles will have to face the entire army of the Crystal Empire to get to you if that's what it takes.” he vowed.

“I know, right now we need to get home and see our sister. And let mom and dad know I'm back.” Twilight told her brother as he nodded. The two soon left Donut Joe's after eating some donuts and eventually they headed to their childhood home. Shining Armor knocked on the door as he and Twilight waited. The door opened as Twilight Velvet opened the door, she smiled seeing her son as she hugged him.

“Hey mom, we need to talk, is dad here?” Shining Armor asked as he could see Nightlight approach him. “Something important came up.” Shining began.

“Is it Twilight? Did they find her body??” Twilight Velvet asked before she noticed the hooded mare. “Who's this?” She asked.

“You'll see, get Twinkle down here, she might want to see this.” Shining Armor told his mother as she nods and went upstairs, she soon returned with a young mare whom was smaller but as smart as Twilight was at her age, her fur was a baby blue color almost white like her brother's but her mane and tail were colored like Twilight Sparkle's own mane and tail even having the same stripe on it. She also bore an interesting cutie mark, a star like the Sparkle family six pointed lavender star only her's has smaller stars around it.

“hey BBBFF!” Twinklestar said to her big brother, this made Twilight smile beneath her hood.

“Okay everypony's here now son, what's the news on Twilight? Did they get her body back?” Nightlight asked.

“Even better dad.” Shining began as he looked at Twilight Sparkle as she took her hood off.

“I'm back mom, dad.” Twilight Sparkle said to her parents, Nightlight's eyes widened as he felt tears form in his eyes, Twilight Velvet fainted on the spot seeing her daughter alive. Twinklestar looked confused seeing Twilight before looking at her sister's picture with flowers around it as a memorium then back at the mare before her.

“Twilight?? It... it can't be! We saw you in the morgue, we saw you in that casket, how?? how in Faust's name??” Nightlight couldn't even think straight before he hugged Twilight. The tears streamed down his face as he did so, Twilight Velvet awoke as Shining Armor helped her up.

“you okay mom?” Shining Armor asked.

“Y..yes, I swore I just saw.....” Twilight Velvet stopped in her words as she saw Twilight Sparkle hugging her dad. “My baby! My baby filly! Faust brought her back to us!” she wailed as she hugged Twilight as well.

“Is she really my big sister??” Twinklestar asked confused.

“I'm glad to see you too mom, dad, ugh... need air.” Twilight gasped as she was hugged by both her parents before they let her go.

“Oh, sorry Twilight, it's just we thought you were dead. It seems Faust saw a grave injustice was done and brought you home to us.” Nightlight apologized as Twilight Velvet nodded too.

“Princess Celestia helped as well, when she found me she used her strongest healing spell to save my life though it took a lot longer to fully heal me due to the orichalcum that was used on me.” Twilight Sparkle explained to her family what had happened as best as she could explain, about the Bluebloods and their conspiracy to eliminate her.

“Those rotten bastards! I'm glad Blueblood burned at the stake though I hope his rotting soul burns in Tartarus for all eternity.” Nightlight said with a growl.

“Even though his dad was the true mastermind, but any evidence linking him is either dead or destroyed. If only we could have gotten him when we had the chance.” Shining Armor said.

“Amadeus will have his reckoning one day.” Twilight Sparkle told her brother before looking at her younger sister. Something about her was interesting Twilight. “Twinkle, how strong is your magic?” Twilight asked her sister.

“Well...I...I kinda can't do much except some basic things. Why do you ask?” Twinklestar asked her sister.

“You mean you haven't trained in magic?” Twilight Sparkle asked.

“No! I absolutely forbid it!” Twilight Velvet's voice echoed out. “I'm sorry Twilight honey but I was worried about your sister going through what you went through, I even told Celestia not to interact with Twinklestar.” the elder mare told Twilight Sparkle.

“Mom, I know you don't want that tragedy to happen again to either of us but Twinkle, her magic I can feel it. It's very strong.” Twilight told her mom.

“She's right mom, I can feel it too.” Shining Armor agreed.

“Does this mean I can become a princess too like Twilight?” Twinklestar asked her brother and parents.

“I'm not sure, it's possible. I mean Twiley was that powerful and ascended to Alicorn status when she fixed her friends' cutiemarks and figured out one of Starswirl's spells.” Shining Armor told Twinklestar of the time Twilight literally evolved into an Alicorn after helping her friends when their cutiemarks got swapped around after misfiring Starswirl the Bearded's spell. Little did anypony know how much distain the Blueblood family would ring up including the conspiracy to kill Twilight.

“Velvet honey, we got a second chance with our elder daughter, we can't waste it either, besides those devils will regret they day they tried to murder her.” Nightlight told his wife.

“Dad, I know I got my hooves full. Spike is out there somewhere alone and I want to find him and tell him I'm alive.” Twilight Sparkle said to her dad whom nodded.

“I can remember how surprised we were when you adopted him as your son. I'm sure he's fine and he'll be happy to see you.” Twilight Velvet added in.

“Mom, I wanna learn magic like my big sister Twilight knows.” Twinklestar spoke up, Twilight Velvet gasped as she heard her youngest daughter speak up.

“Twinkle, I don't want those monsters trying to harm you like they almost did to Twilight.” Twilight Velvet began before Twilight approached her mom.

“Mom, I can teach her and you won't have to worry. As of now the nobles don't know I survived the assassination attempt and I'm keeping it that way till we can stop their plan for war.” Twilight told her mother.

“I'll see to it they are safe.” Shining Armor spoke up.

“Then let's..” Twilight started to speak before the ground suddenly shook. “What was that?” She asked.

“Felt like a tremor.” Nightlight said. Shining Armor rushed to the window and looked outside, what he saw made his eyes widen. Unicorns hovering in the sky armed to the teeth launching magic blasts into Canterlot sending debris everywhere and sending panicked ponies fleeing.

“Damn! It's already beginning!” Shining Armor shouted, Twilight Velvet gasped as her hooves shot to her mouth.

“We got to get to the caste and fast.” Twilight Sparkle said as she looked at her parents and sister. “Gather everything we'll need. I'll teleport us there.” She said as her parents and sister gathered essential things in their saddlebags as they gathered together as Twilight's horn glowed as they were warped via a teleportation spell to Canterlot Castle, they arrived in the throne room as Princess Celestia was waiting with Princess Cadence, Princess Luna went to assist with those injured and in need.

“Shining!” Cadence rushed to her husband's side as she hugged him.

“Princess, is this what I think it is?” Twilight asked.

“It is my dear student, those blasted traitors revealed their hand.” Princess Celestia said grimly. “Though I never imagined they would resurrect Unicornia to bare arms against us.” She said.

“If it's a war Amadeus want's, it's a war he'll get!” Shining Armor said determined. He knew he and Cadence had to return to the Crystal Empire to ready their army to attack the armies sent by Unicornia.

“Amadeus??” Princess Celestia asked.

“I can explain later Princess, right now we need to stop the invaders. I hope my friends are okay in Ponyville.” Twilight said worried.

Chapter 3 - the search for Spike!

Meanwhile just as Discord and Twilight Sparkle headed off to Canterlot the rest of the mane six headed off to try to find Spike. The first one Rainbow Dash flew through the skies searching around for Spike. “Man, no sign of him anywhere. He couldn't have gone far.” the rainbow pegasus continued to scan the ground below as she flew around. Her flight pattern took her toward the Griffon lands. “No way Spike would be here, never hurts to have a looksee.” Rainbow Dash flew into the Griffon lands as she looked around before a Griffon flew up to her.

“Well look who decided to come on by.” Gilda said as she greeted Rainbow Dash in the air.

“Gilda, it's been a while.” Rainbow Dash hovered in the air with Gilda before the two landed on the ground. “Seen Spike by any chance?” Rainbow Dash asked Gilda.

“Nope, why?” Gilda asked.

“He ran away and nopony's seen him in a long time. Wouldn't blame him after what happened to Twi. Especially those rotten finks who made it their business to run Twi's name into the mud.” Rainbow Dash said with a sneer.

“I heard, never thought anybody would be that cruel enough to murder a princess, let alone that Blueblood guy.” Gilda said to Rainbow Dash.

“Same here, that coward blasted Twi's name at the trial and really ticked off Princess Celestia, as well as me and Applejack though she had more patience than I, I wanted to buck that smug bucker's head off his shoulders for what he said about Twi.” Rainbow Dash was growling noticably.

“Heh, I could imagine. Anyhow I haven't seen Spike around here. And I don't think anybody else has seen him either.” Gilda told Rainbow Dash whom nods.

“Thanks anyway, I'll try someplace else.” Rainbow Dash took off into the sky after exchanging goodbyes with Gilda. “Man, where could Spike be?” Rainbow Dash wondered as she flew off.

Meanwhile at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack was busy getting into contact with her kin folk hoping any of them had seen Spike. She let out a sigh as none of them had seen the missing dragon. Applebloom noticed her sister sighing and approached her.

“Applejack ya alright?” Applebloom asked her sister.

“Yeah, just frustratin not being able to locate Spike, none of our kin have seen 'im.” Applejack told her sister.

“Did ya ask Babs if she's seen him?” Applebloom asked, referencing her cousin Babs Seed.

“Already did, no sign of Spike either. Ah hope the others are havin better luck than I am.” Applejack told her sister.

“But why? Ah mean ah know it hurt Spike to loose Princess Twilight, it hurt us all.” Applebloom lowered her head.

“Listen Applebloom, if ah tell ya somethin' right important, promise me ya won't go blabbing it ta anypony else.” Applejack told her sister.

“Not even ta Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle?” Applebloom asked her sister.

“Well ya can tell em but make em promise not ta blab it either.” Applejack told her sister whom nods.

“Ah promise, heck ah'll even Pinkie Promise it.” Applebloom said as Applejack nodded.

“Okay, it's about Twilight.” Applejack began.

“Oh, you mean her ghost right? Button Mash, Pipsqueak, and Featherweight all saw her lookin at them, they got scared and ran.” Applebloom told Applejack. The older mare shook her head and laughed. “What's so funny?” Applebloom asked.

“That was no ghost Applebloom, that was really Twilight.” Applejack told her sister.

“No way! You can't be serious!” Applebloom was thrown back at what she heard.

“Hey what's goin on in there?” Came the voice of Granny Smith as she and Big Macintosh both entered the room Applejack and Applebloom were in.

“Granny, Big Mac, it's about Twi but tell nopony about this.” Applejack began.

“Alright.” Granny Smith said.

“Alright AJ, what's this about?” Big Mac asked his sister.

“Twi's alive.” Applejack told her family. Granny Smith gasped, Big Macintosh looked frozen.

“Yeah, and we all thought it was a ghost.” Applebloom added on.

“L-Land sakes, ah don't believe it. When we saw her lyin in that casket she looked dead.” Granny Smith was still in shock hearing this.

“ah believe ya AJ, after all you hold the element of honesty for a reason.” Big Mac said.

“That's right, and right now Twi wants to find Spike though ah've exhausted all my options, ah hope Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash had better luck.” Applejack said.

Meanwhile a distance away from Ponyville Rarity and Sweetie Belle were approaching a large cave entrance. Rarity looked a bit disgusted knowing what they will find.

“Rarity you still haven't told me why we are looking for Spike. Besides the obvious, we're all worried about him.” Sweetie Belle said to her sister.

“Yes darling, that and there's more. But don't go spreading it around as gossip. It's about Twilight Sparkle.” Rarity told Sweetie Belle.

“Besides her ghost scaring the horseshoes off Button Mash, Pipsqueak, and Featherweight?” Sweetie Belle asked Rarity, the elder unicorn laughed and shook her head.

“No darling no, that wasn't a ghost. That was Twilight in the flesh.” Rarity told her sister.

“Wha?!” Sweetie Belle's jaw dropped in shock hearing what Rarity said. “No way, I thought she was..” Sweetie Belle couldn't even bring words as Rarity nods her head as they went into the cave. The two were suddenly confronted by three large looking dogs dressed in miner helmets, vests, and spiked collars.

“Hey! No ponies allo.... Oh no not you!!” Spot cringed seeing Rarity, Fido and Rover whimpered too seeing Rarity.

“Relax darlings, I'm not here to whine if that's what your thinking. I was looking for Spike, have any of you by chance seen him?” Rarity asked.

“N-n-no. We haven't.” Spot still looked afraid of Rarity.

“Hm, we'll look elsewhere.” Rarity turned around as she and Sweetie Belle left, as soon as they did the three Diamond Dogs sighed in relief.

“That was a close one.” Spot said as he watched Rarity and Sweetie Belle leave. The two unicorns continued their journey as they searched for Spike, eventually their journey lead them to a small village which Rarity instantly recognized.

“I remember this village, we met Starlight Glimmer here, I wonder if she's here?” Rarity wondered, it had been a while since she had contact with Starlight ever since the assassination attempt on Twilight Sparkle's life. Rarity and Sweetie Belle began to question the other ponies in the once former village of equals but to no avail as none of them knew a thing about Spike. Rarity soon went up to the house Starlight once lived in and knocked on the door.

“Go away! I'm busy!” came a voice as if to respond.

“Starlight? Is that you darling?” Rarity asked.

“I said go..... Rarity??” the door suddenly opened as Rarity and Sweetie Belle stepped inside. Once inside Rarity and Sweetie Belle approached Starlight whom looked terrible, the unicorn's mane was a mess and her eyes looked bloodshot. It was obvious she was sleep deprived from lots of studying. “Rarity what are you doing out here?” Starlight asked a bit surprised to see Rarity here.

“Searching for Spike, he ran away from Ponyville and nopony has seen him since.” Rarity answered Starlight's question.

“He ran away??” Starlight couldn't believe what she heard, she had gotten to know Spike when she became Twilight Sparkle's student after their fierce rivalry. But the assassination ended their friendship, Starlight grew to hate the nobles, the Bluebloods especially. She had secluded herself back in her old home studying Starswirl's time travel spell hoping to use it for a good cause instead of trying to alter the past event that gave Twilight and her friends their cutie marks. “I couldn't imagine him doing something like that, but after Twilight's death and without justice I can't really fault him.” Starlight took a seat.

“I know, and you look terrible. What happened to you?” Rarity asked Starlight showing concern.

“Been studying Starswirl's time travel spell, I know I said I wouldn't use time travel but I wanted to use the spell to stop the assassination.” Starlight let out a sigh.

“Starlight, you don't have to.” Rarity told Starlight, the unicorn looked at Rarity as if she was mad.

“But why?? Equestria's falling apart around us without Twilight! Those rotten nobles killed many innocent mares, colts, and fillies! And your saying I don't have to do something to prevent the assassination?!” Starlight snapped at Rarity.

“Starlight, Twilight's alive. We all saw her in the library. Somehow she survived.” Rarity told Starlight, the unicorn stared at Rarity in disbelief.

“Yeah, three of Ms. Cheerliee's students saw Twilight too, though they thought she was a ghost.” Sweetie Belle added in.

“Twilight alive? But how?” Starlight asked.

“She believes Princess Celestia saved her with a healing spell though it took along time to heal her due to the effects of the orichalcum blades used on her.” Rarity explained as best as she could.

“Orichalcum?? I thought that metal was very rare and forbidden?” Starlight asked.

“Those horrible monsters stole the Pie family's orichalcum deposit after Prince Blueblood seduced Pinkie's youngest sister Marble Pie.” Rarity told Starlight.

“Those lowlife monsters.” Starlight's rage was beginning to show itself.

“And the worse thing about it was that Blueblood got Marble pregnant too.” Rarity told Starlight, this surprised the unicorn to hear this.

“He kept his rotten bloodline up through Pinkie's sister.” Starlight shook her head. “i can't believe it.” she said sighing. “Rarity I want to help but even I wouldn't know where to locate Spike at.” Starlight told Rarity.

“I see, I hope we get some kind of clue then to Spike's whereabouts.” Rarity said with a sigh.

“I'll scout around Equestria and see if I can find any sign of Spike. He needs to know Twilight's alive and well. Speaking of Twilight where is she?” Starlight asked Rarity.

“She went to Canterlot to reunite with her family and the Princesses.” Rarity answered.

“I see. Makes a lot of sense.. Though I hope she returns to Ponyville soon, meantime I'll keep an eye out for Spike.” Starlight told Rarity whom nodded. Soon Rarity and Sweetie Belle started back to Ponyville.

“Rarity, what do you think Twilight will do once she gets back to Ponyville?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I'm not sure.” Rarity responded. “For now we need to return home and meet with the others. I hope they had better luck.” Rarity told her sister as they returned to Ponyville.

Meanwhile Pinkie Pie was at her family's farm as she greeted them. Maud already knew something was up as she and Pinkie met in private.

“Pinkie.” Maud began in her monotone voice. “Something's up isn't it?” She asked.

“Yeah, have you or anypony else here seen Spike?” Pinkie asked Maud.

“Haven't seen him at all. Why do you ask?” Maud asked Pinkie Pie. Pinkie let out a sigh.

“He ran away from Ponyville and nopony has seen him, it's real importaint we find him. Twilight's worried about him.” Pinkie told Maud, the other pony's eyes widened when she heard Twilight's name.

“Pinkie, we need to bring this up to the family.” Maud told Pinkie as they headed to where their parents and sisters were at, a young stallion was waiting as he approached.

“Hey aunt Pinkie!” Shoal Pie said, he was Marble Pie's son after her unexpected pregnancy from Prince Blueblood, though Igneous Rock made sure not to let Shoal know who his father was.

“Hey Shoal, your much bigger than the last time I saw you.” Pinkie said smiling before she took a seat with her family.

“Pinkie, we know you don't visit us often.” Igneous Rock began as he looked at Pinkie. “So what brings you here?” He asked his daughter.

“Dad, I came here hoping to find Spike.” Pinkie Pie answered. This caused a bit of confusion from the family. “Guess that means no huh?” Pinkie let out a sigh.

“Now Pinkie.” Marble Pie said as she looked at her sister. “Why would you think Spike would be here?” she asked.

“Cause he ran away and nobody's seen him.” Pinkie responded to her sibling.

“Oh dear.” Cloudy Quartz said with a gasp. “I wouldn't blame him since nobody could understand how he felt losing his adopted mother.” she said as she let out a sigh as Igneous Rock went over to his wife.

“Yeah, Twilight's worried sick about him.” Pinkie said, the room felt silent as both Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz stared at their daughter in surprise and shock when she said that, the same looks were on Marble's and Limestone's faces, Shoal was confused when he heard this.

“Mom? Aunt Limestone? Aunt Maud? Grandma? Grandpa? What did aunt Pinkie mean by that?” Shoal asked confused.

“Pinkamena Diane Pie are you off your medication again?” Igneous Rock asked.

“No dad, I'm being serious. Twilight's alive and well. She survived the attack.” Pinkie explained as best she could. The family was thrown for a loop when they heard about what happened recently to Twilight Sparkle.

“Igneous, this is a sign of a true miracle from Queen Faust herself. Princess Twilight was always the light that healed Equestria time and time again.” Cloudy Quartz said to her husband. Igneous Rock nodded in agreement.

“Pinkie, I'm sorry for not believeing you before. As for Spike we don't have a clue where he is at. But we thought those butchers murdered her with the stolen orichalcum?” Igneous Rock still felt confused as he asked Pinkie.

“Princess Celestia healed Twilight but I guess the heal spell put her in a coma or something, Twilight thinks it had to do with the Orichalcum.” Pinkie explained though she couldn't understand it herself.

“To me that sounds like a reaction from the Orichalcum and Princess Celestia's magic. If that's true then that explains why Twilight looked dead to everypony who viewed her body in that coffin.” Maud spoke up. The others all nodded in agreement.

“It's possible.” Igneous Rock nodded to his eldest daughter, though he being an Earth Pony had no knowledge of magic.

“Anyhow thanks for the help, I'll be leaving back to Ponyville soon to tell Twilight the bad news.” Pinkie said to her family as they nodded. “Though I can spend time with you guys.” she smiled.

Meanwhile Fluttershy was searching high and low for any sign of Spike, she had conversed with many animals in her travels but none had seen Spike. She began to feel hopeless as she landed and sighed. “So far nothing, oh I wish I had a clue to where Spike was at.” Fluttershy continued on as she continued her search as she hovered in the air. She headed into Everfree Forest as she headed to Zecora's hut.

Inside Fluttershy greeted Zecora as she watched the zebra working at her cauldron. “So Fluttershy, what is it you seek?” Zecora asked Fluttershy.

“I was hoping you had seen Spike, he ran away from Ponyville and nopony has seen him, nor have any animals.” Fluttershy answered. Zecora frowned when she heard this.

“His sadness and anger I can see, but was this his reason to flee?” Zecora asked.

“I dunno, he was angry at everypony. I would be too if I lost my mother.” Fluttershy responded.

“I see, sad to say he didn't come this way.” Zecora told Fluttershy. “But a bad omen is headed this way, a terrible threat in many ways.” the zebra told Fluttershy as the pegasus gasped.

“A bad omen? Is it evil?” Fluttershy asked as Zecora nods as the zebra explained the omen though mostly she was unsure what it meant but right away she knew it was evil. Fluttershy looked afraid as she heard Zecora's words. She had to rush off and tell the others about Zecora's preminition.

Meanwhile back in Ponyville Applejack arrived at the Library as she entered and looked around. “No sign of Twilght anywhere, guess she's not back from Canterlot yet.” she turned to leave before Rainbow Dash arrived. “Rainbow, any luck findin' Spike?” Applejack asked.

“Nope, I searched everywhere and no sign of Spike anywhere, heck even the Griffons don't know where he's at.” Rainbow Dash told Applejack. “Is Twi back yet?” she asked.

“Nope, I was just here myself. None of my kin have seen Spike either, not in Appleloosa or in Manehattan.” Applejack told Rainbow Dash as Rarity and Pinkie Pie arrived next.

“Hey, did you guys have any luck finding Spike?” Pinkie asked.

“Nope, we both had no luck.” Applejack answered Pinkie.

“Yeah, the Griffons didn't see Spike and nopony else has either.” Rainbow Dash added in.

“Yeah, my family didn't see Spike eiether.” Pinkie sighed.

“I questioned as many ponies as I could and no sign of poor Spike anywhere.” Rarity added in. “I did encounter Starlight Glimmer, she's also on the search for Spike.” she said to her friends.

“I guess it was a good thing ya found Starlight, we can use her help right about now.” Applejack said to Rarity just as Fluttershy arrived. “Fluttershy did ya have any luck finding Spike?” Applejack asked.

“no, every animal I met didn't see Spike. I hope he's okay.” Fluttershy let out a sigh. “Oh, I did see Zecora though she didn't see Spike either, she did have a omen about a bad evil.” Fluttershy began.

“What??” Rainbow Dash began before Mayor Mare rushed into the Library.

“Thank heavens I found you here!” Mayor Mare was almost out of breath.

“Mayor what's going on?” Applejack asked.

“There's smoke rising from the sky, several pegasi believe the smoke is coming from Canterlot!” Mayor Mare said. The girls all were shocked to hear this.

“WHAT?!” the girls all said as they rushed outside, sure enough they could see the thick smoke coming from the direction of Canterlot. It was a no brainer what was going on.

Canterlot was under attack!

At the Crystal Empire. Luna's Revelation. Evil revealed!

“Oh man, what the heck is going on here??” Rainbow Dash asked.

“This could be that omen Zecora told Fluttershy about.” Applejack answered as she could see the thick smoke rising from Canterlot's direction.

“Mayor, get everypony ready for evacuation. Whatever is going on in Canterlot might come over here. And we need to be ready.” Rainbow Dash told Mayor Mare, the Mayor nods as she rushed out to warn the citizens of Ponyville about the impending attack.

“Ah hope Twilight is alright.” Applejack continued to look toward the smoke as she and the other element bearers rushed off to help with the evacuation plans.

Meanwhile in Canterlot the attacks began to worsen as the royal guards battled the soldiers of Unicornia. Magic blasts were traded between the two factions as the war waged on. At the castle Princess Celestia watched the on going fight from the window as Twilight and her family figured out what to do. “Mom, Dad, you'll be safer in the Crystal Empire with Cadence and Shining Armor.” Twilight told her parents.

“Twiley's right, the Empire's defenses are fortified. We won't have any problems there.” Shining Armor told his parents.

“It'll be good to see our granddaughter too.” Twilight Velvet said, Twilight blinked hearing this.

“Wait, granddaughter??” Twilight Sparkle looked at her mother.

“Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you Twilight. Cadence and I had a daughter.” Shining Armor told Twilight, the alicorn couldn't believe it, not only did she have a new sister but now a niece too.

“I was gone for a long time. I missed the births of both my sister and my niece.” Twilight felt angry. So much was robbed from her by the nobles and Amadeus Blueblood. “Amadeus Blueblood has a lot to pay for!” she growled.

“Twilight, I don't understand why they hate you so much. I learned about how you saved Equestria from a lot of evils. I thought everypony respected their heroes.” Twinkle spoke up, Twilight shook her head hearing her sister.

“Not all ponies are satisfied, especially those low down nobles.” Twilight told her sibling.

“Twilight honey, we hope you'll come to the Crystal Empire. It'll be more safer for you to be there.” Nightlight told Twilight.

“I know dad, but there's somethings I need to take care of in Ponyville, one I need to make sure everypony there is evacuated safely. Second I need to rally my friends, and third I need to find Spike.” Twilight told her father.

“I see.” Nightlight told Twilight.

“Twilight, I want to go with you to Ponyville and meet your friends.” Twinklestar spoke up.

“Twinkle, it's dangerous though I know you won't take no for an answer. Just be careful and stay close to me. Our family's suffered enough as it is.” Twilight told her sister. Soon after exchanging goodbyes with their parents and elder brother and sister in law, Twilight began to plan her own trip back to Ponyville.

“Heading back to Ponyville I see?” Discord appeared as he looked at Twilight.

“Yeah, I need to check in on my friends. I hope they found Spike.” Twilight told Discord with a worried tone.

“Don't worry Twilight. I'm sure he'll find his way home.” Twinklestar told her big sister.

“Yeah, right now my concern is to warn my friends.” Twilight's horn lit up.

“We'll hold out as long as we can here. I'm not certain how much longer we can hold out.” Princess Celestia told Twilight.

“As much as I dislike destructive chaos, I'll have to help as well. Besides this is as much my home too you know. And besides nobody can cause chaos like me.” Discord spoke up.

“Princess, I'll defend you to the end.” Gladius Strife added in as he stood at the ready with the other guards.

“Then we'll begin as soon as possible.” Princess Celestia told Gladius. Twilight nodded as she and Twinklestar were engulfed by magic as they teleported away. Celestia turned to Luna, Discord, and Gladius. “This may very well be the fight of our lives.” She warned them.

“They used my brother to break his vow of friendship to Prince Shining Armor and to Princess Twilight Sparkle. I will take revenge on them.” Gladius responded to Princess Celestia as the four of them headed out into the heat of battle.

Meanwhile in Ponyville Twilight and Twinklestar arrived in the library just as the elements arrived as well.

“Twi! Glad you made it back in one piece. We got worried when we saw the smoke over in Canterlot.” Rainbow Dash was the first to break the silence.

“Unicornia started the invasion. We haven't much time to lose. Where's Spike?” Twilight asked.

“Ah'm sorry Twilight, we searched everywhere and no pony has seen Spike anywhere. It's like he vanished off the face of Equestria.” Applejack told Twilight. The Alicorn frowned although she was worried sick about Spike and now the war beginning.

“Darling don't worry. We ran into Starlight Glimmer, she's gone to search for Spike.” Rarity told Twilight. The Alicorn perked at the mention of her student's name.

“Starlight, I'm glad to hear she's okay.” Twilight said in a relieved tone to hear about her student.

“I'm sure Starlight will find Spike. Right now we gotta stop Unicornia from taking over Equestria.” Rainbow Dash spoke up.

“We need to make sure everypony here is safe. Then we can concentrate on stopping the invasion. And I know who's at the center of all this too.” Twilight said to her friends.

“Yeah, ah bet it's them nobles who hated yer reforms.” Applejack said too as she remembered everything that happened, that led up to the attempt on Twilight's life.

“You got that right Applejack, it was the nobles and their leader Amadeus Blueblood.” Twilight explained all she knew to her friends.

“Prince Blueblood's own father?? I can't believe it!” Rarity said in shock.

“Same here, that low down snake in the grass sold his own kin out fer power.” Applejack said in disgust.

“Yeah and for what nopony knows.” Rainbow Dash added in as she too felt disgust hearing the news from Twilight.

“My brother also knows why Gallant Heart tried to kill me. He was blackmailed with the threat of his younger brother's life over his head.” Twilight said as her friends reacted.

“Shiny said that?” Twinkle asked her sister as Twilight nodded her head.

“Hey Twi, sorry if i'm changing the subject but who's that pony who came with ya?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight.

“Oh, I'm sorry guys. I forgot. This is my little sister Twinklestar Sparkle.” Twilight introduced her sister. The younger unicorn stepped up to Twilight's friends.

“I didn't know you had a sister Twilight, if I did I would have thrown her a biiiiig party! Well if we weren't still sad thinking you were gone and all.” Pinkie Pie said.

“Oh it's okay. I know of you guys and how your friendship with my big sister helped Equestria time and time again.” Twinklestar told the element bearers.

“Hey Pinkie you better save the party till after we stop Amadeus Blueblood.” Rainbow Dash told Pinkie Pie.

“Right, first thing we need to do is get everypony to safety. The Crystal Empire is our best bet.” Twilight told her friends whom all nodded. Mayor Mare suddenly rushed back inside.

“Everypony is ready to.... Oh my heavens! Princess Twilight?? Is that really you?!” Mayor Mare froze in her hooves seeing Twilight alive and well.

“It's a long story Mayor, right now we need to get everypony over to the Crystal Empire.” Twilight told the Mayor, she nods as she heads outside to get everypony prepared to leave to the Empire.

Soon every family and every citizen in Ponyville gathered to leave via trains to the Crystal Empire. Some felt remorse for leaving, others afraid of the looming threat. Applejack stood with her family as they prepared to leave. “Applejack?” Applebloom looked at her older sister. “Why is everypony leavin Ponyville?” She asked.

“Cause, them nobles started war. Ah don't want you or any of mah kin being harmed.” Applejack told Applebloom whom nods.

“Okay everypony. We need you all to board each train.” Mayor Mare's voice cut through the air as the ponies boarded the trains. Once on board the ponies all waited to move out. Ms.Cheerilee looked out the window of the train seeing the school house a distance away as she sighed.

“If only Twilight Sparkle were here, she'd be able to stop this madness.” Ms.Cheerilee said. She wasn't the only one who felt the same way as many other ponies shared the same settiments.

In one car the element bearers and their families were seated in. Twilight happened to sneak onboard with her hood on as Twinklestar came alongside her. She got noticable looks from many of the ponies on board. “Hey, Ah wonder who that can be?” Big Macintosh asked Applejack.

“Don't worry Big Mac, you'll know soon enough.” Applejack replied. The trains soon departed from Ponyville, the town was soon completely abandoned as the last train left. Back in the mane 6's car Twilight stood up to face everypony in the car.

“Everypony, I think I owe you an explaination.” Twilight began.

“Yeah, it's already breakin mah heart ta leave the farm as is.” Granny Smith spoke up. “ah hope the nobles rot in Tartarus once this war is over.” she said.

“Hey Rainbow Dash, that hooded pony sounds familiar..” Scootaloo said to Rainbow Dash.

“I understand that, but rest assured the nobles and Amadeus Blueblood will be stopped before they can corrupt Equestria under their banner of hate.” Twilight answered Granny Smith.

“Land sakes, your so wise, just like Twilight Sparkle was.” Granny Smith said amazed unaware she was talking to Twilight.

“Well to be frank, i'm that wise because..” Twilight took her hood off as she revealed herself. “I'm still alive.” she said.

“Oh my faust! Twilight is that really you??” Granny smith asked shocked to see her, Big Macintosh was shocked to see Twilight too.

“Whoa! Twilight's alive!” Scootaloo said in shock.

“Oh yeah, we were going to tell you Scootaloo.” Sweetie Belle told Scootaloo.

“So that means.. Button Mash, Featherweight, and Pipsqueak saw you in the library and thought you were a ghost!” Scootaloo couldn't believe what she heard.

“Yeah, sorry I kept myself hidden. I didn't want Amadeus Blueblood's spies knowing I'm alive and well.” Twilight told Scootaloo. She noticed Sweetie Belle and Applebloom not looking surprised.

“Hey sorry Twi but we kinda knew you were alive still. Applejack told me.” Applebloom told Twilight.

“Yeah and Rarity told me too.” Sweetie Belle added on.

“I understand.” Twilight said as she and Twinklestar took their seats.

“Hey Twilight, um who's your friend there.” Applebloom asked Twilight.

“She's my sister Twinklestar.” Twilight answered Applebloom's question.

“Nice ta meet ya. Ah'm Applebloom and these are my friends Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.” Applebloom introduced herself to Twinklestar and her friends too.

“Yeah, we are part of a club called the Cutie Mark Crusaders. We used to do a lot of stuff trying to get our cutie marks till we got them. Now we help other ponies understand the meanings of their cutiemarks.” Scootaloo told Twinklestar about the CMCs.

“Wow, that does sound cool.” Twinklestar said amazed.

“Yeah it is.” Sweetie Belle said next. “Hey, can you use magic like Twilight can?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Not yet, my BSBFF is going to teach me how though.” Twinklestar said. Twilight looked at Twinklestar.

“BSBFF huh?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, since Shiny is our BBBFF you can be my BSBFF, my big sister best friend forever.” Twinklestar told Twilight with a smile.

“Wow, never thought I'd hear that.” Twilight said to her sister. Now Twilight was determined to teach Twinklestar magic.

“Twilight once we get to the Empire what do we do next?' Rainbow Dash asked.

“First we need to tell Shiny and Cadence the situation, next I need to find a way to communicate with Starlight Glimmer and let her know the situation at hoof, and third I hope we can search for Spike.” Twilight told her friends and their families and friends.

“Sounds like a big plan Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said to Twilight.

“I know. For now we can only wait.” Twilight responded to Rainbow Dash. As the ride continued into the late hours Twilight tried to rest though she was worried about Spike and more so what was happening with Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Discord, and Gladius Strife. She hoped they were okay as she finally succumbed to slumber. Hours passed into days before the trains all arrived at the Empire. The ponies all disembarked as Twilight and her friends stepped off the train as they were greeted by the royal family.

“Twiley, Twinkle, you made it. And I see you brought all of Ponyville with you.” Shining Armor greeted his sisters.

“Yeah, hope this won't be of an inconviniance Shiny.” Twilight told her brother whom nods. “Where's mom and dad at?” Twilight asked.

“Back in the castle with Flurry Heart.” Shining Armor answered.

“So that's her name, I hope my niece will know me as family.” Twilight said to her brother as he motioned for his crystal guards to help the citizens of ponyville to their designated area. The mane 6 along with Twinklestar and Shining Armor headed to the palace where Princess Cadence was waiting at. Once there Twilight and Twinklestar greeted their sister in law and parents. Twilight noticed the bundle Cadence was holding and approached.

“That bundle, is that Flurry Heart?” Twilight asked as Cadence nodded.

“Yeah, I know how much it meant for you to be here when she was born, but those blasted monsters...” Cadence began before Twilight stopped her.

“We'll stop Amadeus Blueblood and his ilk in Unicornia. I promise.” Twilight told Cadence as she looked at Princess Flurry Heart. “She's beautiful.” Twilight said to Cadence before she saw the infant's wings stretch out, she looked both surprised and amazed at her wing span. “She's an alicorn??” Twilight looked surprised.

“Yeah, she surprised Princess Celestia and Princess Luna when she was born.” Shining Armor added in. “Though we had no idea one of those lowly bastards from Equestria's First tried to kidnap her from the nursery. Luckily I was able to stop him with help from Gladius and the royal guards whom were there.” Shining said with a growl. Twilight gasped when she heard this as did her friends.

“Why them twisted monsters! Bad enough they attacked Princess Celestia's school now they tried ta kidnap your baby too??” Applejack said infuriated.

“Man that's the lowest anypony could go! I say we take the war to Unicornia!” Rainbow Dash shouted looking angry.

“I know, those monsters targeted Flurry cause of her connection to me.” Twilight growled.

“That would be kidnapper refused to talk before he used his own magic to snap his own throat.” Shining Armor said with a glare in his eyes.

“Those rotten monsters have it our for our family that's what I'm getting.” Nightlight said to his son.

“They didn't even try it when I had Twinklestar. Why go after Flurry Heart? She's just a baby.” Twilight Velvet said looking at her granddaughter as she used her magic to wave a rattle infront of Flurry heart as the foal giggles and coos reaching for it.

“All because of my plans for reform..” Twilight sighed and lowered her head.

“Twi, you had no idea those jerks were going to try to kill you. If anything those creeps should be sent to the sun or moon.” Rainbow Dash said with a huff.

“No, that would be too good for scum like Amadeus Blueblood.” Twilight lifted her head. “I hope to find a way to communicate with Princess Celestia in Canterlot. I hope she's alright.” Twilight said thinking of her mentor who stood by to battle the unicornian army. “mom, I think the reason might be, is because of what Flurry is, what I am, an alicorn.” Twilight told her mother.

“That would make sense Twilight dear.” Twilight Velvet watched as Flurry Heart started to suck on her rattle.

“It's just guess work.” Twilight told her mother. Twinklestar went over to Flurry heart and played with her too. Twilight excused herself as she grabbed a familiar journal and started to write in it. “I'm sure Sunset will be happy to see this.” Twilight said to herself as she wrote in it. “Sunset, it's me Twilight. I know your going to want to know how I survived, it was Princess Celestia who healed me though it took along time due to the Orichalcum those devils stabbed me with. Sunset, if anything happens or if the Unicornians tried to invade Canterlot High with the portal get all our counterparts together and prevent them from taking Canterlot High. Signed your friend Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight finished as she sets the journal down. “I hope she gets the message.” she said.

Meanwhile in an alternate universe a flaming haired girl was reading from a journal and sighs. Sunset Shimmer was about to close the book when she noticed it glow. “What?? Can it be??” Sunset opened the journal as she read the words that appeared, her eyes widened as tears welled up in them. “Twilight.. You're alive!” she exclaimed before she further read her warning. “Unicornia?! It can't be!” she realized Twilight wouldn't lie about this if it wasn't serious. She knew what she had to do as she shut the journal and went to get her friends, the human counterparts of the mane 6.

Meanwile back in Equestria Twilight was looking at the crystal heart as it shined. Twinklestar joined her sister as she looked at the crystal heart. “Hey twinklestar.” Twilight greeted her sister.

“I know it's late but when will we start the magic lesson?” Twinklestar asked

“Tomorrow, right now it's late.” Twilight told her sibling. Twinkle noticed Twilight looking at the crystal heart.

“it's beautiful huh?” Twinklestar asked.

“Yeah, Spike helped reforge it when the Empire was in danger from King Sombra.” Twilight told her sister as she reflected on how the Empire was in danger from King Sombra and how Spike was able to bring the Crystal Heart back in order to defeat Sombra.

“Guess that's why there's a statue of Spike in the garden. He really is a hero.” Twinklestar said.

“Yeah.” Twilight looked out toward the night sky as the stars illumninated the sky. “No moon, I hope Princess Luna is okay and Princess Celestia too.” Twilight said as she sighed.

“Oh no need to worry about moon butt and sun butt Princess.” Came a familiar voice. Twilight and Twinklestar turned around just in time to see Discord appear with Luna and Celesia, Gladius was with them though he had wounds all over his body.

“Princess Luna! Princess Celestia!” Twilight rushed to the two alicorns.

“No concern for me Twilight? I thought we were such good friends.” Discord huffed as he turned away.

“Sorry Discord, It's just I was so worried about what was happening in Canterlot.” Twilight said to Discord whom nods.

“We may have more to worry about.” Princess Celestia stood up weakly.

“I hope Discord's little trick will buy us time to formulate a plan to stop the unicornians before they take all of Equestria.” Princess Luna added in as she helped Celestia to her feet.

“What trick?” Twilight asked as she helped her mentor.

“Simple, remember when I made your friends act the total opposite?” Discord asked Twilight as he grinned.

“I remember.” Twilight said as she remembered how Discrd discorded the element barrers and herself. “Discord did you...?” Twilight asked.

“As a matter of fact I did. Let's see those invaders fight amongst themselves.” the draconequus cackled.

“The barrier around the castle is reinforced, no matter what happens the unicornians won't set hoof inside.” Gladius Stride told Twilight whom nodded.

“That's a relief.” Twilight said as she looked at Princess Celestia.

“For now, I fear the worst for Equestria.” Princess Celestia went out to view the night sky. Princess Luna followed her sister as she used her magic to raise the moon.

“As do I Tia.” Princess Luna told her sister. “Especially after what I've learned.” she said as Celestia looked at Luna. “I'm sorry Tia, there's so much I've held back but in these dark times they must be known.” Princess Luna said to her sister.

“More secrets moon butt?” Discord asked.

“Princess Luna what's going on?” Twilight asked the night princess as she approached her.

“I know why Amadeus Blueblood sacrificed his own son. I saw it in his dream.” Princess Luna told Twilight.

“I had assumed the nobles would have sealed their minds with that Dreamless Sleep Potion to keep you out, when they feared your alter ego Nightmare Moon.” Princess Celesta said to her sister.

“I read about that potion in my textbooks, they made it as a fail safe to keep Nightmare Moon from attacking them in their sleep.” Twilight spoke up next. Princess Luna nodded.

“Even though now I'm not Nightmare Moon they still fear me enough to use that potion. But as I said before I saw the reason for Amadeus's plans. His own daughter.” Princess Luna said to her sister and Twilight.

“He has a daughter??” Twilight asked in surprise not even knowing of this. “I had no idea Prince Blueblood had a sister.” Twilight said shaking her head in disbelief.

“Indeed. She's the focus of his plans. That monster sacrificed his own son and wife just to make sure his precious Majesty gains power.” Princess Luna growled.

“What?? I knew he was scum but this takes the cake.” Twilight spoke up.

“Indeed, he even taunted me with the knowledge I could have stopped the assassination or even told Tia and Cadence.” Princess Luna shut her eyes. “I could have warned you and your friends about the assassination but I failed to even do that.” Luna lowered her head.

“Princess Luna, even if you did get the word out what would have stopped Amadeus from denying your claims and claim your trying to attack his credibility.” Gladius said to Princess Luna.

“True. He would speak with his forked tongue as usual. I didn't buy his crocodile tears he shed for his wife.” Princess Luna told Gladius, Celestia, Twilight, Discord, and Twinklestar.

“Princess Luna, what about this Majesty?” Twinklestar asked.

“She was a filly when I saw her last. By now she's probably grown up.” Princess Luna answered Twinklestar's question.

“Princess Luna what else did you learn from Amadeus's dream?” Twilight asked now wanting to know.

“Majesty is a alicorn.” Princess Luna told Twilight, she gasped as she was in shock.

“I can only wager Amadeus and the nobles covered up Majesty's birth to keep us from knowing that an alicorn foal was born.” Princess Celestia said as her horn lit up. “Thought Luna got the information out. Had we known where they were headed at the time we could have captured Amadeus and punish him for all the sins he's committed.” Princess Celestia said.

“Princess Celestia, this could explain why Equestria's First tried to kidnap Flurry Heart. She's an alicorn as well and those maniacs might have been sent by Amadeus when he learned about Flurry Heart's birth.” Twilight spoke up.

“it makes perfect sense to me.” Princess Celestia nodded to her student.

“I wish you all could have seen Amadeus's face when I mentioned Majesty.” Princess Luna smirked.

“Indeed, but what else is he planning?” Twilight asked.

“He intended to arrange a marriage between Majesty and Unicornia's King Dauphin. By now Majesty is Queen of Unicornia.” Princess Luna informed Twilight Sparkle.

“the pieces of the puzzle are falling in place. Amadeus is using the armies of Unicornia and Equestria's First to force his vision on Equestria. And he's using his own daughter to do it.” Twilight looked determined now to stop the mastermind of her would be assassination.

“We wiped out Equestria's First a long time ago after they bombed Princess Celestia's school. Save for Flurry Heart's would be kidnapper.” Gladius infomred Twilight whom nodded.

“Okay, guess we focus on the Unicornia invaders and eventually getting to Amadeus and Majesty.” Twilight looked to her sister and the princesses.

“Indeed.” Princess Celestia nods her head. Twilight noticed Princess Luna smirking about something.

“Princess Luna?” Twilight asked the night princess.

“Oh sorry Twilight. Just thinking of the torment I left Amadeus. I know I can't harm anybody in their dreams anymore so I left Amadeus a parting gift.” Princess Luna's grin grew wider.

“Princess what did you give him??” Twilight asked Princess Luna.

“The Tantabus. It's giving Amadeus Blueblood eternal night terrors. My way of warning him he'll fall with his precious Majesty.” Luna responded grinning.

“It does serve him right.” Twilight said to Princess Luna though Twilight wanted Amadeus to suffer like she did.

Meanwhile a long distance away a royal caravan arrives in Canterlot. Inside an alicorn in the shadows waited as her soldier reported the situation.

“Your highness. We were able to pacify the guards that turned traitor on us. We suspect it was work of Discord the spirit of chaos.” the guard told the alicorn, she growled.

“And Princess Luna?” Majesty Blueblood asked as she glared at the guard.

“Gone with her sister and Discord. The barrier they placed around the castle seems to be impregnable by all our magics.” the guard told Queen Majesty. She growled before blasting the guard away.

“Weakling fool.” Queen Majesty growled. “I want that barrier destroyed!” she ordered as her guards went to try to pierce the barrier. Majesty looked over at Amadeus Blueblood, the elder blueblood looked like he was dragged through Tartarus and back, his eyes were bloodshot and had many bags from endless nightterrors inflicted by the Tantabus. “Father, i'll make Princess Luna pay for what she did to you. As well as every other alicorn in Equestria till I'm the only one.” Majesty told her father.

“Yes, indeed.” Amadeus said though he looked out of it. Majesty sighed as she returned her focus to Canterlot Castle. “I will rule Equestria and bring it back to it's proper age. My age!” Majesty said with her own determination.

Chapter 5 - A clue to Spike's whereabouts

The morning sun shined on Equestria though all was not well as Unicornia's invasion force had struck Equestria. Already the Unicornian army had taken over Ponyville and have fashioned it into a base of operations. Queen Majesty awaited word from the army in Canterlot whom remained trying to pierce the barrier set around the castle by the combined magic of the two princesses and Discord. Amadeus looking frail stood beside his daughter's throne. “Any minute now and they will have that barrier destroyed.” Amadeus told his daughter.

“If they value their lives they will shatter the barrier.” Majesty told her father. “I deserve all power, it's my birthright and I've taken the first step by becoming queen of Unicornia, when I rule over Equestria I'll make everypony bow to me as the Goddess I deserve to be.” Majesty coldly said. “First to ensure my rule, I must connect with my guests.” Majesty's gaze fixed toward her other guest in her caravan, a familiar demonic centaur who looked at the alicorn seeing the evil radiating from her.

“So, your invasion has begun but I can sense you want more.” Tirek looked at Majesty Blueblood and Amadeus. “Not surprising from a weakling alicorn as yourself.” he smirked at Majesty

“You will see me greater than that weakling fool Queen Faust. I need your help Tirek, you have a spell I must master.” Majesty responded to Tirek, he laughs as he heard Majesty's request.

“You dare to master my forbidden magic? What makes you believe I'll submit to a lowly alicorn such as yourself? Although revenge on Twilight Sparkle and her friends will be mine.” Tirek said as he could see a glare from Amadeus Blueblood.

“You dare speak the name of that harlot who tried to ruin Equestria in our presence?!” Amadeus snapped at Tirek before Majesty turned her attention on her father.

“Father that will be enough. Besides Tirek, my father had his assassins deal with Twilight Sparkle, she's rotting in Tartarus where she belongs.” Majesty told Tirek, the centaur smirked.

“Is that a fact?” Tirek asked before a pair of uncornian guards arrived.

“Your highness, the barrier is weakening but it'll take more time before it is fully destroyed.” the unicornian guard told Majesty, she glared at the guard.

“It's not good enough, tell the guards to work double time! I want MY castle cleared of that barrier understood?!” Majesty snapped at the guard. The guard quaked in his horseshoes.

“Yes your highness. B-but our guards made an interesting discovery in the memorial garden. One of the graves was apparently robbed.” the guard told Majesty, the evil alicorn raised an eyebrow.

“Who's grave was it?” Majesty asked. It wouldn't be like Princess Celestia to take a corpse with her unless it was somepony special to her.

“We checked the grave maker, it's the grave of Princess Twilight Sparkle.” the guard gulped as Majesty's horn lit up again, he grew fearful as Amadeus glared at him too.

“Apparently Celestia took Twilight Sparkle's body with her.” Tirek smirked again.

“Majesty dear, there is nothing Celestia can do with the corpse of that harlot. Rest assured once you've taken Equestria we'll deal with Twilight Sparkle's corpse and her friends if they refuse your rule.” Amadeus told his daughter whom nods.

“Tirek. My patience is wearing thin, teach me what I wish to know now.” Majesty told Tirek.

“You dare to threaten me??” Tirek glared before a red beam shot into the centaur's chest causing Tirek to stagger. “Wh-what is this?? Wha-at are you doing to..” Tirek reeled in pain. His chest seemed to be on fire as his breathing became hard.

“I can crush you with ease. But I need you alive to teach me your spell.” Majesty told Tirek.

“ugh.. fine!” Tirek gasped as Majesty released her grip on him. He staggered forward clutching his chest.

“Perfect.” Majesty grinned with pure evil. She prepared herself to learn from Tirek.

Meanwhile at the Crystal Empire, Twilight had begun to train her sister Twinklestar in magic. Princess Celestia observed the two ponies in magic teachings though she can see some worry in Twilight's eyes. “Oh Twilight, if there was some way I can help reunite you with Spike.” Princess Celestia muttered to herself. She noticed a crystal guard approach.

“Princess Celestia, there are two unicorn mares who wishes to enter the empire. They both claim to know Twilight Sparkle.” the guard informed Princess Celestia.

“What was that?” Twilight turned her head to the guard.

“Oh! Princess Twilight! There are two unicorn mares whom are outside the barrier of the Empire, they wish to pass through.” the guard told Twilight Sparkle, she didn't waste time as she followed the guard toward the barrier. Once there Twilight could see snow falling outside the barrier as well as two familiar figures.

“Is that..?” Twilight began as she used her magic to open the barrier enough for her to step outside of it as she approached the two mares.

“Twilight! Rarity wasn't kidding. You did survive!” came the familiar voice of Starlight Glimmer as she hugged her teacher just relieved to see her alive and well.

“So you cheated death, that's something you must teach The Great and Powerful Trixie sometime, but in all seriousness, The Great and Powerful Trixie is happy to see you alive and not in that coffin.” came the voice of Trixie Lulamoon.

“Trixie??” Twilight looked at her old rival as she looked happy to see her. “How did you guys know I was here?” Twilight asked Starlight and Trixie.

“Well. It started when I was searching for Spike. Rarity told me what had happened with you surviving. I'll ask about that later, meantime I searched every place I could think of where Spike could be at but to no avail, I went back to Ponyville hoping to tell you when I found the town deserted.” Starlight began her explaination.

“That was when Starlight and I encountered each other, even I the great and powerful Trixie knew something was off about Ponyville being abandoned. We knew we had to leave if something disasterous was on the way since we both learned about the Canterlot invasion.” Trixie continued the explanation where Starlight left off.

“Good thing my hunch was right and we came here. Besides it's the only logical place to evacuate to.” Starlight finished as Twilight nods her head.

“I was there in Canterlot when Unicornia attacked.” Twilight told her student.

“Unicornia??” Trixie said as she gasped in shock.

“Wait... Unicornia?? They had the gall to break the treaty Princess Platinum signed ages ago to unify all of Equestria??” Starlight said shocked to hear this information.

“Apparently they got no respect for somepony like Princess Platinum. Let's get back inside the barrier.” Twilight said to Trixie and Starlight. The two unicorns nodded as they followed Twilight through the barrier and into the Empire. They soon arrived inside the crystal empire castle as Twilight led them into the main area where the element barrers, the princesses, Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, and Twinklestar were at.

“Hey Starlight, glad you made it here.” Rainbow Dash went to greet Starlight.

“I'm just glad we figured out where you guys were at. I need to tell Twilight something important, I found a clue where Spike could possibly be at.” Starlight told Rainbow Dash.

“Where?! Where is he?!” Twilight asked, her expression was one of worry.

“I tracked a lead I got from a pony who saw a dragon matching Spike's description accompanied by a baby phoenix. They were headed to Baltimare.” Starlight told Twilight.

“Baltimare?? Why would Spike be headed there??” Twilight asked.

“Maybe some of us should go and investigate this lead Twi.” Rainbow Dash suggested.

“Ah reckon that's our only option ta find Spike. Ah say we do it.” Applejack agreed with Rainbow Dash's suggestion.

“Right. Starlight I need you to go with Rainbow Dash and Applejack to Baltimare and see if Spike is still there.” Twilight told Starlight whom nodded to her mentor.

“I can provide a fast way to get there. If you may princess.” Discord's voice echoed as he appeared beside Twilight.

“Fine Discord but just be careful. With Majesty's army about you could run into resistance.” Twilight warned Discord. The Draconequus laughed as he snapped his claw as he, Starlight, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack all vanished to Baltimare.

Once in Baltimare the group began to look around before discovering unicornian guards. “This isn't good.” Starlight said in a hushed tone.

“Man, Unicornia took Baltimare too??” Rainbow dash said in a hushed tone as well.

“We need ta get back to the Empire before they see us.” Applejack told her friends whom nodded, Discord nods as well as he snaps his claw transporting the group back to the Empire.

“What happened?” Twilight approached the group as they returned.

“Unicornia, they've taken Baltimare.” starlight Glimmer answered Twilight's question.

“My only chance to find Spike and those blasted traitors ruined it!” Twilight looked enraged.

“Twi, we'll get that info about Spike. We just gotta flush those racist ponies out of Baltimare first.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight whom nodded.

“Unicornia wouldn't expect a counter attack. I hope Shiny has the soldiers ready for war.” Twilight rushed off to find her brother. Luckily for her she didn't have to go far as Shining Armor along with Gladius Strife were preparing for any kind of attack from the invasion force.

“Twiley, I thought you were still training Twinke in magic, what happened?” Shining Armor turned his attention to Twilight.

“Get your best soldiers ready. Time to strike back against Unicornia!” Twilight told her brother.

The Battle for Baltimare! Twilight gets an answer.

“Twiley, I know how bad you want to find Spike.” Shining Armor addressed his sister Twilight Sparkle as they looked over the army of the Crystal Empire.

“I know Shiny, and I know somepony in Baltimare knows where Spike is. I have to find out where he is and if he's there.” Twilight told her brother.

“Twi, we saw the place crawling with Unicornian guards. It won't be easy especially if they have the citizens locked away.” Rainbow Dash floated over to Twilight as she explained the situation.

“She's right Twilight.” Starlight Glimmer added in. “What we need is a plan of attack. We go in with a full frontal assault we'll be sitting ducks.” she told Twilight as the alicorn nodded.

“I'll have one once we get ready to march.” Twilight answered her student.

“Well yer not goin' alone Twi. We're all comin too since we got some payback ta get on them dirty traitors.” Applejack stepped up with Rarity and Pinkie Pie beside her.

“Okay. First we all need to be ready for war.” Twilight Sparkle told her friends. She soon began final preparations with Gladius Strife and Shining Armor.

“Twiley, it's best you stay in the shadows. We can't let any Unicornians see you alive or else they might try to kill you again.” Shining Armor told Twilight whom nodded.

“I know. But I want to be there once we free the citizens of Baltimare and we learn where Spike is.” Twilight told her brother. Shining Armor nods.

“Perhaps I can be of some assistance.” Discord appeared before Twilight sparkle.

“How can you be of help?” Twilight faced Discord as the Draconequus chuckled.

“Simple, the Unicornian army can't fight what they can't see.” Discord was grinning as he spoke.

“Discord what do you have in mind?” Shining Armor asked.

“Oh a simple spell of mine to blind the Unicornian army to your presence. It's dirty I know but hey, they played dirty too Twilight.” Discord told Twilight.

“Do it Discord, once the army arrives in Baltimare. I want you to cast that spell on the Unicornian army.” Twilight told Discord. This surprised the Draconequus. “You are right, they did play dirty when they tried to kill me using Sir Gallant Heart as a pawn. And I've been told what they did to Princess Celestia's school, the school I proudly attended. And it's because of them Spike is all alone somewhere out there in Equestria!” Twilight's rage was showing as her hatred for the Bluebloods was surfacing. How Amadeus got away with attempted murder and slander of her good name, how he used other ponies to get what he wanted.

“Twilight!” Came Princess Celestia's voice as she heard Twilight's outburst. “We all want Amadeus to face his judgment for all he, Prince Blueblood, and Unicornia has done to Equestria.” she said as her wing wrapped around Twilight like a mother protecting her child.

“I know, it's just...” Twilight sighed. “They robbed me of so much, seeing my sister Twinklestar being born as well as my niece Flurry Heart. They even took Flash Sentry's life.” there were tears in Twilight's eyes.

“Twiley.” Shining Armor looked at Twilight and sighed. “Gladius, lets go to Baltimare. Suddenly I feel like crushing some racist unicornians.” he growled as Gladius nodded his head. Discord followed after them.

Days later in Baltimare, the once proud city was under Marshall law due to Unicornia's invasion. In one of the main inns was Sir Morning Blade, he was formally of the royal guards before he betrayed them in favor of serving the Unicornian cause. He was also responsible for freeing Tirek. Morning Blade was busy drinking when a soldier approached him. “What is it?” Morning Blade asked as he used his magic to set his mug down.

“Sir, we've been following reports over the whereabouts of the citizens of Ponyville but so far we've run into a dead end. As for the citizens we have here they will conform to Queen Majesty's rule or be executed as traitors.” the soldier told Morning Blade whom nodded.

“And what of the situation in Manehattan?” Morning Blade asked.

“Our forces are preparing to invade Manehattan, reinforcements will arrive soon to take over the rest of Equestria though there is concerns for the far off regions such as Saddle Arabia and The Crystal Empire.” The soldier told Morning Blade.

“Bah! No desert will stop us nor will any cold.” Morning Blade responded to his soldier.

“There is concern over the barrier around the Empire. If it's as strong as the one that is preventing our forces from taking Canterlot Castle.” the soldier said again.

“Must be the work of that fool Shining Armor. He's known for his powerful wards.” Morning Blade took a drink from his mug. “He won't be much of a problem once we get past his barrier.” he said unaware Shining Armor was about to arrive in Baltimare undetected.

Outside in the outskirts of Baltimare the Equestrian army stood at the ready, armed to the teeth and armored to match. Shining Armor stood at the front ready to lead the attack. “Alright everypony. We stand on the brink of war with those gutless traitors. They conspired to murder my sister Princess Twilight Sparkle and even more so to overthrow Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. They murdered many innocent mares, fillies, stallions, and colts to spread a message of fear in Equestria through terrorist acts. And most importantly they chose to screw with my family. My sister was the first they messed with, and they dared to lay hooves on my baby girl Princess Flurry Heart. Now is the time to strike back!” Shining Armor's voice echoed almost like the royal canterlot voice. The army cheered as they prepared to march into Baltimare but before they could, Discord whom was beside Shining Armor snapped his finger. A wave of magic surrounded the soldiers but seemingly did nothing.

“Lets see if those Unicornians can hit what they cannot see.” Discord grinned as he nods to Shining Armor.

“Then lets start retaking our home!” Shining Armor lead the army into Baltimare. Thanks to Discord's spell the Equestrian army went undetected as they began to ambush and assault the Unicornian patrols. Shining Armor and Gladius Strife made their way through the downtown area as they caught sight of one of the Unicornian guards rush into an inn.

“Sir Morning Blade! We're under attack!” the guard shouted as Morning Blade spat out his drink. He coughed a few times before he glared at the guard.

“Who's attacking us??” Sir Morning Blade stood up.

“The attackers are using some kind of invisibility spell to attack us. We don't know who they are.” The guard replied as Morning Blade grabbed his sword.

“And none of you thought to break that spell?” Morning Blade asked the guard.

“Several of our soldiers tried but failed to dispel it.” the guard answered as Morning Blade growled.

“You better hope no word of this reaches Queen Majesty.” Morning Blade headed out of the inn, as he did he suddenly felt the cold steel against his throat as he froze in his tracks.

“Hello Morning Blade, didn't think somebody like you would turn in his Equestrian armor for the rags of a bunch of racist traitors.” Shining Armor's voice came out as he held Morning Blade.

“Shining Armor?! But how did you..??” Morning Blade struggled as he felt Shining Armor's sword at his throat but couldn't even see it.

“My little secret.” Shining Armor responded as he forced Morning Blade back into the inn, behind Shining Armor was Gladius Strife whom kept two guards at bay though the guards were more in confusion at the invisible attackers. Inside the inn Shining Armor forced Morning Blade into a chair, he kept his sword on the turncoat's throat.

“Queen Majesty will have your head for this!” Morning Blade shouted before Shining Armor growled at Morning Blade.

“Not in this or any life time pal. Besides after what happened to my sister Twilight, Majesty and Amadeus will burn in Tartarus!” Shining Armor growled at Morning Blade.

“Still morning that whore sister of yours huh? She deserved to die for snubbing the Prince of his royal bir-agh!” Morning Blade felt the cold blade close to digging into his flesh. “No! Don't!” Morning Blade suddenly felt fear.

“Blueblood had no right to the title of Prince! After all he was his daddy's little bitch all the way to the end when he pissed himself when he was burned!” Shining Armor snarled. “And as for Amadeus and his new bitch Majesty, I'll enjoy seeing them get what's coming for what they did to my sister Twilight and for forcing my brother in arms Sir Gallant Heart to break his vow of friendship to me and Twiley by attacking her!” Shining Armor snarled louder.

“You fool! Can't you see that she's the cause of the cancer that doomed Equestria?! Queen Majesty is trying to heal Equestria's wounds your whore sister Twilight tried to inflict in her quest to usurp the crown!” Morning Blade shouted as he felt the blade deeply close to cutting his skin.

“Majesty is the only cancer hurting Equestria! Your just a blind fool under her control!” Shining Armor shouted back.

“Thanks for the idea.” Morning Blade's horn lit up as a bright flash suddenly emitted form it. Shining Armor and Gladius Strife were both blindsided by the flash. As their vision cleared they noticed that Morning Blade was gone.

“Damn coward!” Shining Armor shouted as one of the Equestrian guards rushed in.

“Your highness, we've routed the remaining Unicornian forces. They've been locked away as planned.” the guard reported to Shining Armor.

“Good, though that traitor Morning Blade escaped. Used some kind of spell to blindside me and Gladius.” Shining Armor sheathed his sword.

“I take it things went as planned?” Discord suddenly appeared sitting on a stool as Shining Armor nods.

“Discord, you can dispel the invisibility spell now. The unicornian soldiers are prisoners now.” Shining Armor told Discord whom nodded as he snapped his claw causing the Equestrian Army to appear.

“Oh I also took the liberty to disarm your prisoners. They can't fight without their magic.” Discord grinned. Moments later Shining Armor located the citizens whom were locked away. Once released the citizens showed their gratitude to their heroes. Shining Armor headed to a royal caravan that had arrived in Baltimare.

“Is it done Shiney?” Twilight sparkle's voice came from the caravan.

“Yeah. But Morning Blade escaped. Gladius discovered notes and I suspect he's fled to Manehattan to join a squad of Unicornian soldiers arriving there. We can go from here to Manehattan using one of the cargo ships as a decoy.” Shining Armor outlined his plan to Twilight whom nodded. She soon emerged with a hooded robe on and was accompanied by Starlight Glimmer. The two began to question the citizens till they got to the docks, the Equestrian army were loading supplies for the trip to Manehattan in the captured Unicornian ship.

“I hope Shiny knows what he's doing.” Twilight watched her brother and his forces prepare for the next strike.

“Don't worry, I'm sure your brother knows what he's doing.” Starlight said to Twilight as she continued her questioning. She sighed when her questions weren't answered. That was till she met a scruffy looking Minotaur looking over the at the ship he once served on alongside the Captain just before the Unicornians wrecked as part of their invasion.

“Blasted unicorns. If I see another one I'll..” the Minotaur growled before he heard the sounds of hoofsteps behind him, he turned to see Starlight and Twilight. “What do you two want?” the minotaur asked.

“I'm searching for somepony special to me.” Twilight Sparkle began.

“Who might you be looking for?” the minotaur asked.

“A baby dragon. He answers to the name Spike. Have you seen him?” Twilight asked. The minotaur seemed puzzled before he nods.

“I saw him, had a baby phoenix with him. He paid good bits and jewels to secure a boat to set sail from.” The minotaur mused. Twilight's eyes went wide when she heard the minotaur's answer.

“YOU MUST TELL ME, WHERE IS SPIKE AT?! WHERE DID MY SON GO?!” Twilight cried out almost in the royal voice.

“Twilight, please calm down.” Starlight tried to calm her mentor and friend.

“Easy now. Yeah he and his pet phoenix were on my boat. I say it's suicide for him to head to the Erebus Islands. Oh well his loss then.” The minotaur told Twilight. The alicorn nods as she turned to Starlight.

“Starlight, get the others. We're headed to the Erebus Islands.” Twilight Sparkle told Starlight whom nodded. “Spike I'm coming. Just be safe.” Twilight said looking out toward the ocean.

The reunion in Judecca. Unicornia's attack on the isles!

Twilight Sparkle waited at the inn as Starlight Glimmer arrived with the element bearers. They all took seats as Twilight began her speech. “I know where Spike is at. We need to travel to the Erebus Islands.” Twilight told her friends. They all looked surprised and shocked to hear this information.

“Erebus?? Why would Spike go there?? That place is full of ruffians and the rest of their filth.” Rarity said with a shudder.

“I wouldn't blame Spike to be honest since we didn't do a thing to bust Amadeus.” Rainbow Dash added in.

“We were all grief stricken Dash. We all thought we lost our friend and tried to go on even though we all lost a part of us.” Applejack said to Rainbow Dash.

“She's right, we let those meanies hurt Twilight and rob my family too. If we could all take it back we could have done something.” Pinkie Pie sounded frustrated just knowing what a dangerous place Spike was currently at.

“Twilight, what's your plan now?” Starlight Glimmer looked to her mentor as Twilight decided on a course of action.

“I'm going to the Erebus Islands. Any of you are welcome to come with me.” Twilight answered Starlight's question as she looked to the others. Imminently Rainbow Dash stood up.

“Well Twi, count me in!” Rainbow Dash said.

“well ah guess ah'm comin too Twi.” Applejack also said.

“Same here! I can't wait to throw Spike a welcome home party!” Pinkie Pie added in as well.

“Oh.. it does sound like a mean place but we need to find Spike, I'll go too.” Fluttershy added in as well.

“Indeed, I'll go there too.” Rarity added in as well.

“Twilight, I'll go as well. After all we need to be careful at Erebus.” Starlight added in.

“Then lets prepare for our journey.” Twilight told her friends as they all left the inn. Soon hours later Twilight and Shining Armor met on the docks. Twilight planned to take a ship to the Erebus islands while Shining Armor was about to set an ambush on the Unicornians in Manehattan using the captured Unicornia battleship as his own.

“Twiley, be extra careful. No telling what kind of thugs are hiding out at the Erebus Islands.” Shining Armor told Twilight.

“Don't worry Shiny, I'll be fine. And I'm glad mom let Princess Celestia teach Twinkle in my absence.” Twilight reassured her brother as he nods. “Besides you need to be careful too.” She told her brother.

“Don't worry about me Twiley, Gladius and I have it all planned out. Those traitors won't even see us coming till it's too late.” Shining Armor told his sister as they hugged. “You better get ready to bring Spike home.” Shining told Twilight whom nods.

“I will, I promise.” Twilight told Shining Armor. “And I hope for your victory in Manehatten too BBBFF.” Twilight told her brother as Shining Armor nods as he went to the captured ship and boarded it, Twilight went to board her own ship as the two ships began to set sail. Soon the ship was sailing toward the Erebus Islands. Down below Twilight was in her cabin as a pony entered the room.

“It'll take us a few days till we arrive at our destination.” the pony told Twilight whom nodded.

“Thanks, I better rest till then.” Twilight told the pony as he nods and left Twilight alone. Twilight relaxed on the bed in the cabin as she slowly drifted to sleep. As she slept she dreamed she was in Canterlot Castle. She looked around the castle before the sound of hoofsteps caught her attention. She turned to see Princess Luna approach her.

“Twilight, I heard from Tia your intentions of leaving to find Spike. Be careful in these times. Equestria cannot lose it's element of magic again.” Princess Luna told Twilight as she nodded.

“I know, and I know where Spike is at. I hope to return soon with Spike. Then we can focus on bringing down Amadeus and his whole house.” Twilight told Princess Luna. The night princess nodded her head.

“Indeed, but again be wary.” Princess Luna nods to Twilight as she warned Twilight.

“I will be.” Twilight said to the night princess as the dream faded as Twilight woke up. She looked out the window of the cabin as she saw the stars at night. She laid back down and waited.

Morning soon came as the ship continued on it's way. The element barrers were on deck along with Twilight and Starlight. The sun was shining bright as the ship was closing in on their destination. “We'll be arriving soon.” the captain told Twilight whom nodded as she got her hood on.

“We're almost there Spike.” Twilight muttered to herself as the islands came into view. The ponies watched as the islands were closer. Soon the boat arrived in the port town Judecca as it docked, the elements and Starlight disembarked from the boat as they looked around seeing the various species interacting in harmony. Twilight smiled from under her hood. “It's like what I wanted Equestria to be like, before Amadeus spread his venom out.” she sighed as she and the others went into the marketplace asking about Spike. They didn't get much answers till Twilight approached a stand where a dragon was at. “Excuse me but I'm searching for somepony.” Twilight said to the old looking dragon.

“And whom might ye be lookin fer?” the dragon Marc asked Twilight.

“His name is Spike, he's a baby dragon and he ran away.” Twilight answered. Marc only smirked as he looked at Twilight even though she was hooded.

“well, so your lookin fer Spike eh? Well I be knowin where Spike is. But who calls fer him?” Marc asked Twilight's question with one of his own.

“Well...” Twilight began before Rainbow Dash walked up.

“Find anything on Spike yet?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight as Marc arched an eyebrow.

“The Element of Loyalty Rainbow Dash? Never expected one of ye here in Judecca. Best be wary here.” Marc said to Rainbow Dash.

“What's that supposed to mean??” Rainbow Dash asked the older dragon.

“Fer one thing, the news of the war reached us all here. Could be spies here if ye don't be careful.” Marc answered Rainbow Dash's question.

“What about Spike?” Twilight asked Marc. The dragon nods to Twilight.

“Not here.” Marc answered as he looked toward the direction of the Rotten Barrel. “In there, we won't be noticed.” Marc told Twilight whom nodded. The ponies headed into the bar and inn. Marc followed after them as they all took seats in the establishment. “We should be safe from peering eyes fer your enemies.” Marc told Twilight whom nodded.

“You seem to know so much, especially about Unicornia and Equestria's problems.” Twilight said to Marc.

“Words came to these islands for along time. Especially the assassination of one of Equestria's heroines and newest princess. Aye Spike told me about the assassination and how powerless he felt to do a thing. I be warnin him about revenge and how it can consume ye.” Marc said to Twilight.

“Yeah, those scumbag nobles were behind the assassination of Twilight. Though the mastermind escaped punishment while his own son Prince Blueblood was punished.” Rainbow Dash said to Marc.

While the conversation was going on, inside the kitchen was Spike. Though he was much older than he was when Twilight was murdered. A moment Spike would never forget or forgive. It was the reason he left Equestria after he felt there was no justice besides Prince Blueblood and Sir Gallant Heart's execution along with the rest of the conspirators but Spike knew deep down Amadeus was the one behind it yet no pony would hear him. But since he arrived in Judecca he proved himself as a member of the Red Lightnings Guild even raising to the rank of one of the Big Four when he rescued a boat full of slaves from slavers. He looked at Peewee as the Phoenix chirped. “Guess after today we can plan our return to Equestria, with the war brewing this is my chance to get Amadeus for what he did to mom.” Spike said to the phoenix as he was preparing dinner. As he was preparing the food he heard voices outside in the dining area. “More customers?” Spike wondered as he peeked out the window to the dining area. He gulped and ducked back. “What are they doing here??” he said to Peewee in a hushed tone. He never expected to see Rainbow Dash, Starlight Glimmer, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie sitting with Marc! Though he noticed there was another pony hidden in a hood. He knew he'd have to face them someday.

Back outside the ponies and Marc continued to converse. “So let me get this straight. Spike is part of a guild?” Twilight asked Marc. The dragon nodded his head to confirm Twilight's question with an answer.

“Twilight if we find this guild we might find Spike.” Starlight suggested though she was unaware that Spike was in the kitchen. Spike was listening in on the conversation when he heard a voice he thought was silenced by the traitors.

“Mom??” Spike wondered. “No.. it can't be her...” Spike shut his eyes as visions of Twilight laying in her glass coffin came to mind. The funeral, still fresh in his mind. He could see the sad faces of Twilight Velvet wailing and crying for her baby filly as Nightlight held her, Shining Armor in his formal uniform holding his sobbing wife Princess Cadence. He can see the sadness in the faces of his friends and the other ponies, even the younger fillies and colts that knew Twilight were sad too. Spike growled to himself and shook his head. “I still can't forget those images Peewee.” Spike felt the Phoenix nuzzle him. He pets Peewee's head. “but what if it is?” Spike wondered as he got the food ready to serve. “I have to know if old memories are messing with my head.” Spike got the food ready as he placed it to be served though he wanted to greet his old friends though he wondered if Celestia still had a price on his head. He decided to find out. Meanwhile the group ate and were amazed at the taste and quality of the food.

“Ah must say the cook here cooks great food.” Applejack said as she enjoyed her meal.

“Well the new chef was a real blessing when he came here. Didn't think he'd go on to be so much more.” Rupert, the old griffin whom owned the Rotten Barrel said to his guests.

“Really?” Twilight asked Rupert.

“Yeah, said he was from Ponyville though he came to these parts, guess he wanted to leave his past behind.” Rupert answered Twilight's question. Twilight blinked as she looked at Rupert.

“Is he here?” Twilight asked Rupert. The griffin smirks as Twilight's question.

“He should be finishing up his shift as we speak.” Rupert answered Twilight, Spike continued to listen in. His mind was racing with thoughts, was Twilight really alive?? And if so, how?? Spike remembered seeing Twilight in the morgue, the deep wounds in her body, the fatal one across her throat, he remembered those images well. There shouldn't be no way to survive yet Twilight did so. He sighed and looked to Peewee as he prepared to face his friends he fled from and possibly the specter of his own deceased mother. Spike stepped outside and saw the ponies as they all stood up seeing Spike.

“Spikey Wikey?? is that you??” Rarity said surprised to see Spike looking older than the last time she saw him.

“Yeah, it's me Rarity.” Spike replied as he was suddenly hugged by the ponies. He had a smile on his face seeing his old friends again. “But how did you guys find me?? I wanted to surprise you guys by coming home.” Spike asked the other ponies.

“We learned about your trip back in Baltimare.” Starlight answered Spike's question. “Unicornia started the invasion of Equestria. Shining Armor was able to recapture Baltimare.” Starlight explained to Spike.

“So it's happened. Amadeus showed his true hand.” Spike growled.

“Aye, so yer chance at revenge has finally come Spike.” Marc approached Spike whom nods.

“But one thing.” Spike looked at the hooded mare. “You sound like my adopted mother Twilight Sparkle, but she died.. How is it you sound like her?” Spike asked the hooded mare unaware whom she was.

“Spike, I'm shocked you didn't recognize me. Must be the hood I'm under. Can't let Amadeus know how much of a failure Prince Blueblood really was.” Twilight answered Spike as she took her hood off.

“Wha..? M-m-mom?!” Spike's eyes widened as he saw Twilight's smiling face before him.

“It's me Spike.” Twilight assured Spike. The dragon looked shocked and stunned, his mother he saw dead in the morgue and in her coffin at the funeral now stood before him alive and well. Tears welled in his eyes before he hugged Twilight as he let out his tears and cried, he hadn't cried like this since he was younger, when he thought his mother was taken from him forever. Twilight hugged Spike back as she felt tears in her own eyes. “I got worried about you Spike when I learned you ran away. I'm glad your safe.” she told Spike as she hugged him.

“But how? How did you come back from the grave??” Spike asked as he wiped tears from his eyes.

“It was Princess Celestia's healing magic that saved my life, though when I was in hibernation it made everypony think I was dead.” Twilight told Spike everything she knew. Spike nodded as he understood what Twilight was telling him.

“I'm just glad your alive and well, right now we need to help Equestria. I heard about the war and I want to help in anyway I can.” Spike told Twilight whom nodded. “Marc taught me so much, and now I want to use those teachings to help our home.” Spike said to Twilight.

“Right now my brother is leading the charge against Unicornia. I hope he's okay.” Twilight said thinking of Shining Armor and his battle plan against Unicornia. She hoped he was doing well.

“He is?? I wish I could be there with him. Me and the guild.” Spike said to Twilight. The Alicorn looked at Spike and nods her head.

“I heard you were part of a guild here. From what that old dragon merchant said your in the Big Four.” Twilight said to Spike.

“Yeah, after I rescued a ship full of slaves.” Spike said as he explained what had happened that night when he rescued Aquilina and the others who were kidnapped by slavers to be sold into slavery, the heroic act got Spike into the Red lightnings Guild and even more so he rose in rank to the Big Four. Spike had worked hard and trained hard to hone his own skills in preparation to battle Amadeus and the Unicornia forces. “I had planned to return home, to help bring Amadeus to justice for what he did to you Twilight.” Spike said to his adopted mother.

“Amadeus will have his day of reckoning soon, him and Majesty.” Twilight Sparkle told Spike, she now was determined to stop the Bluebloods and their attempt to usurp power. That night the seven ponies decided to stay the night at the Rusty Barrel. The ponies also met and befriended Aquilina as well.

Late that night Twilight was asleep when she found her dream visited by Princess Luna. “Princess Luna?” Twilight addressed the night princess.

“How has the journey gone?” Princess Luna asked Twilight.

“We found Spike. He's ready to come back home now.” Twilight answered the night princess. Princess Luna nods her head as she looked at Twilight.

“That is a relief. But still Twilight be careful. We cannot lose Equestria's light again.” Princess Luna told Twilight. The younger Alicorn nods her head.

“I know. This time I'm ready for anything.” Twilight told Princess Luna.

“I best be leaving now, we shall see thee when you return to the empire.” Princess Luna said to Twilight as the dream started to fade. As it did Twilight awoke as the morning sun's light was bright. She yawned and rubbed the sleepiness from her eyes as she went to the window to look outside to see the morning sunrise over the ocean. That's when Twilight heard a commotion and looked over to see an army of soldiers bearing the Unicornia crest.

“Unicornia?!” Twilight gasped as she heard the door open as Spike rushed in with the other ponies. “We got a problem!” Twilight told everybody in the room.

“We heard ya shout Twilight, what in tarnation's goin on?” Applejack asked.

“Unicornian forces are in Judecca!” Twilight looked back toward the window. The ponies and Spike rushed over and gasped seeing the invaders.

“Twilight, what should we do?” Rainbow Dash asked, though she hoped the option to fight would come up.

“We got no choice but to fight them.” Twilight said before she heard another commotion, she looked to see the Unicornians under attack by a group of figures of many species including griffons, dragons, minotaurs, and ponies. Spike recognized the figures and grinned.

“Good thing the Guild was on high alert.” Spike wanted to go down and join in the fray. He rushed downstairs with the ponies following as the fighting grew more tense as they exited the Inn. Once on ground level they can see the Red Lightnings Guild in battle with the Unicornian invaders. The fighting raged as the Guild members battled the Unicornian invaders, the griffon members took to the skies as they fired their projectile weapons down at the unicornians, the minotaur members attacked with clubs and axes among other weapons against the invaders, the dragon members were attacking with fire breath, some with ice breath against the invaders.

“That the best ye got??” Marc snarled as he was in battle with the unit's commander. The commander, a unicorn stallion swung his sword with magic at Marc as the dragon dodged the attack as he struck the commander with his claws which were engulfed in flames. The unicorn screamed as the fire burned his hide. A soldier tried to come up behind Marc but was cut off by Spike who slashed the guard from behind with his own claws. The soldier cried in pain as he tried to turn to attack Spike only for Spike to blast the soldier with a fireball setting the soldier on fire. Meanwhile the ponies joined in the fight with each pony using their talents to fight the unicornian invaders. Rainbow Dash flew through the skies as she slammed her hooves into the soldiers whom tried to follow her. Fluttershy backed away from two soldiers only for Fluttershy to stare into the guards' eyes causing them to flee in terror.

Meanwhile Pinkie Pie was using her antics to confuse the soldiers before allowing Applejack to slam her hooves into each soldier. She turned and caught one of the soldiers with a rope she grabbed from the ground, using it like her lasso. “Ya ain't goin anywhere!” Applejack shouted.

Rarity was busy using her magic to slam gemstones into the attacking soldiers from every angle. “Take this you ruffians!” she shouted as she focused her magic as she caused a hailstorm of diamonds to slam into the soldiers. Meanwhile Starlight Glimmer used her magic and teleportation spells to catch the soldiers off their guard. Two of the guards however started to converge on the hooded form of Twilight Sparkle. Twilight only shook her head seeing them.

“So it's come down to this. Well I knew Amadeus was up to something.” Twilight muttered before her horn lit up under her hood before she unleashed a powerful magic blast on the soldiers sending them flying into the ocean. Soon all the captured soldiers and the commander were gathered up, though there were many casualties for the Unicornians as they were sent off to be locked up.

“That should teach them a lesson about attackin Judecca under our watch.” Marc wiped some blood off his claw as Spike nods his head.

“My question is how they got here so fast. There wasn't any sign of any war ships in the area when we arrived yesterday.” Twilight said as she watched as the prisoners were led away.

“Twi, we should get back home to the Empire. We can figure this whole thing out when we get there.” Rainbow Dash told Twilight whom nodded.

“Yeah, let's get ready for our journey home.” Twilight told her friends as they returned to the Rusty Barrell. Soon hours later the group were boarding their ship back to Equestria. Spike would join them after saying his goodbyes to his fellow guild members and hoped one day once peace has been achieved he could return to further help the guild. Spike soon boarded the ship with a few bags and with Peewee sitting on his shoulder.

“Well, let's get ready to go home. I just hope Princess Celestia isn't mad at me for running away like I did.” Spike said as he approached Twilight.

“Don't worry, she'll be just as happy as I was to see you.” Twilight assured her adopted son. Soon the ship sets sail back to Equestria. Though that night Twilight wondered how her brother Shining Armor did in his battle against Sir Morning Blade and the unicornians in Manehattan. She hoped he was alright. However something else bothered Twilight, how the unicornians got into Judecca so quickly. Twilight knew this was a mystery that needed to be solved and hopefully this will be solved.

Chapter 8 Manehattan battle. A mysterious stranger appears

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Chapter 9 Prophecy Revealed.

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Showdown in Rockville, Twilight vs Amadeus!

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Chapter 11 - Amadeus's journal, sins of the past

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