The Equestrian Civil War.by GrandoreChaptersThe Division.Betrayal.Future TrueContactSafe HavenA Day Off?The Sound of War.No Choice.InjuriesPlacement ManagementRoyal CeremonyNot so funny, now is it?First AssignmentsA New Member.A Battle for the Books.A Surprising PromotionThe Division.Chapter 1: The Division. It was a normal day in Equestria, ponies going on and on with their everyday lives, when the royal chariot landed in Ponyville Square. Ponies from all over Ponyville showed up almost instantly and bowed to hear the news. Celestia stood tall and regal over her subjects when a flash of green appeared and two unicorns in cloaks with the symbol of the Equestion University of Magical Defenese on them. “Celestia, Its been a while.” The one with a green and purple mane said. “This is my Apprentice, ArchMane.” He gestured to the one on the left, who was the height of the Alicorn, and bowed. He stood and eyes level. “It’s a pleasure.” Minutes later a flash a purple shot out next to Celestia, Revealing Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack. “Princess! What’s wrong?” Twilight said. “I will soon answer my student, we have three more guest arriving.” She said looking up to Cloudsdale, When three ponies, two being Fluttershy and Rainbowdash who took their places with Twilight, and the third being a Red and Blue maned pregasis who landed next to the Green and purple maned unicorn. “Hey, I’m Thunder Flash, you?” he said. “I’m Grandore, and this is my apprentice ArchMane.” Grandore motioned to the tall pony next to him. “Hello, I can’t talk, only listen to the Princess and her speech.” He said. “Thank you for showing upon us, my subjects.” She smiled to the crowd. “I fear I do not arrive to Ponyville out of pleasure, but of urgent warning. For today my dear sister, Luna, has betrayed us, and wishes to take over our lives, and our world, out of greed.” She said, and then looked away, tears gently going down her face. “She is collecting an army, called the New Lunar Republic. And she intends to kill all who stand in her way. She wishes to make a government in which were ANYPONY can lead us. No, not just I and my sister who have kept you safe, or not just me. Anypony, including the most inexperienced. I wish to ask your help, all of you, in stopping her. I wish to ask you to join me, and fight her. I will train all of you, and we will stop her. And we will be named, The Solar Empire.” She said standing tall. “Who will come with me?” she asked, eyes beckoning. Thunder Flash, after Celestia was done, let out a series of laughs and then looked at her, whipping his eyes, “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard!” He said continuing his laughing crisis. “When have I lied or joked with my subjects?!” Celestia let out warning. “Who will join me!” she said. “I will, Princess” Twilight said. Standing directly next to her teacher. “Well I certainly cannot stand here and do nothing. I will.” Rarity said, walking over to Celestia. “Well, My former colleague asking for help, I will Celestia.” Grandore said, turning his head to ArchMane. “Will you, Archie?” ArchMane stared at the Princess, and the turned to look at Grandore directly, “What did I say about calling me that, old stallion!” ArchMane said giving Grandore a little push, “Yes. I will gladly support Princess Celestia.” The two unicorns walked over to Celestia with many other ponies, none of them including ThunderFlash. “What about you Applejack? Pinkie Pie? Fluttershy? Dash?” Twilight said looking to each of them. “Well, I can’t Twi! I got my work to do on the farm, and I can’t let a war interfere.” She said, staring apologetically . Twilight nodded in understanding “Same here, Twilight. I gotta help the Cakes!” Pinkie said and looked to both Celestia and Twilight. “Cloudsdale has me and 24/7 weather patrol. Sorry.” Rainbowdash said. “And I can’t fight anypony, Twilight, you know that….I’ll stay in Ponyville and look after the animals and other ponies.” “Well, I see your minds are made up, off we go then!” Celestia said, letting Twilight, Grandore, Archmane, and Rarity sit in her chariot while the other ponies were ushered into the newly arriving chariots. “Roughly two hundred and ten ArchMane! Ponies support you all the way Celestia.” Grandore said. “Support of others is what I fear. Grandore.” She said as they flew to Canterlot. Betrayal.Chapter 2: Betrayal. It was dusk when they arrived in Canterlot’s courtyard, and they were immediately ushered into the throne room, where every pony stood in attention when Celestia stood up in front of the crowd. “I would like to officially welcome you all to the Solar Empire,” She said scanning and seeing the anxious faces, “And for those of you who wish to begin their training now….I am sorry it will begin tomorrow at sunrise. Now the Royal Guards will take you to your living quarters. Enjoy your night.” She finished. And everypony left except for Twilight, Rarity, Grandore, and Archmane. “Thank you for staying” Celestia said after the room was empty, “Follow me,” She said stepping down from the throne and led them through a series of corridors until they reached a room that was at the top of one of the many towers in Canterlot. The room consisted of a long table, six chairs, and windows on each wall. Celestia took her place at the end of the table infront of one of the windows, while the four ponies took the seats on the sides of the table, Twilight next to Rarity, and Archmane next to Grandore. “This is where the five of us will meet from now on. Tonight, however I will assign you all your roles in the army.” Celestia said. “I will lead us, but under the circumstances, I need to make the public appearances. So, Twilight, I assign you as Grand Admiral of the army. You will Command in my place. Under your command are three captains, one of which,” She said looking to Rarity, “Rarity you are captain of the ground forces, and you will also be the Recruiting officer, is that alright with you?” Rarity nodded. “Who’s the others?” Twilight said. “Oh, some of them you know quite well, the other you met once or twice, their joining us tonight, actually.” She said, then the door opened, revealing a White pony in gold and purple armor, and a pink alicorn, and a yellow pegasus who walked in with him. As the ponies approached the table. The one in the armor was taking his helmet off and laying it on the table, Revealing a light blue and cobalt colored mane. “Shining Armor! Cadence!” Twilight said running to them and hugging them, “Oh its been so long!” “Yes it has, Twi,” Shining armor said and Cadence smiled at her, Then they noticed Grandore and Archmane. “Are you two who I think you are?” Cadence said, “Grandore and Archmane?” She said and they nodded, “It’s a pleasure” She said. “Its our pleasure.” The two unicorns said and bowed and stood back. “Spitfire here will be commanding the airforce, while Shining Armor commands the Unicorns, Twilight.” Celestia said motioning to the yellow Pegasus, who smiled. “Cadence, I will need you for public appearances with me, and to lead medical.” Cadence nodded. “What about us?” Grandore said, Archmane staring intently at the Princess. “You two are too valuable, I need you to stay here with me.” Celestia said. And everypony in the room looked at her, shocked. “Do you know how powerful they are!” Twilight exclaimed, almost yelling. “Grandore’s one of the strongest unicorns in all of Equestria! Archmane is…a bit weaker, but he’s his apprentice!” “Twilight, I’m nowhere as strong as you, considering you’re her protégé and the element of magic, afterall.” Grandore said. “And they are too valuable. They must stay.” Celestia said. “No we won’t.” Everypony looked at the voice of Archmane, who was glaring at Celestia. “You have already decided that, afterall.” He added, smiling. “You are smart, Archmane, or can you just see the future?” She said, laughing at her own comment, “Yes, I do. I’m assigning you two to lead the Special Operations Squad, Lightbringer.” “Well now, Special operations? When will we get our recruits?” Grandore said. “You will receive them tomorrow when they are assigned. Two ponies will be given, an Earthpony, and a Pegasus, top of their class.” Celestia said. And little did the ponies notice, it was already near midnight, and a pegasus guard burst into the tower room. “Princess Celestia! I have important news from our spies!” the guard said. “What is it?” They all said in unison. “Luna gained around two-hundred ponies. 3 we’re promoted on the spot. One was put as Flight Marshal, Her name is Rainbow Dash.” All the ponies looked in shock, Rarity and Twilight were most affected. “The other was promoted to Special Forces, her squad name is P.A.R.T.Y, her name is Pinkie Pie.” Twilight and Rarity had tears going down their face by then. “And the last one was assigned to her group, his name is Thunder Flash.” Future TrueChapter 4: Future True. Archmane woke with a start. He had a horrible dream of death and torture, and he didn’t like it. He jumped out of the bed and ran over to the balcony, the sun just rising, it was morning. Sighing, he saw the city alive with ponies moving amongst each other in a rush. He closed the window and locked it, once he get himself together, he grabbed the key of Grandore’s desk and opened the door, finding a pony in barding, and steel plates protecting her chest, neck, and back. Plates went down her legs and were met with metal boots, her helmet sitting next to her on the ground. On her back were two weapons crossed in an x shape, the weapons however, had a strange shape. “Hello?” She said looking at him, he didn’t notice but her coat was light grey, and her mane a darker gray, her eyes purple, “Are you Grandore?” “No, I’m his apprentice, Archmane, who are you?” He asked. “I would rather not answer that at the moment, are you going to him?” She said. “Yes, come with me if you’d like.” Archmane said, pushing past her. She carried her helmet with him and when they entered the sunlight, he could now see the patterns of the plate armor, and tell what the weapons looked like. Her armor was white, with pink trim around the edges, on her left side was a large shoulder plate that went from the middle of her back, down to the middle of her front foreleg, designed to protect but had cuts for mobility. On the shoulder was a pink musical symbol, from what Archmane could tell, was a Treble Cleff. “Are those violin bows on your back?” He asked. “No their cello bows. Notice their a bit larger. And, however, the bow itself is copper and the string is a ton of tiny sharpened steel wires stringed together.” She pointed out. “Two swords with many small blades is the idea?” Archmane said, the pony only smiled. They continued onto the training area were they found Grandore, sitting aside grinning at those who trained eagerly. “Oh Archmane, Perfect timing!” Grandore stood on his hind legs and spreading his forelegs, looking like he was going to hug Archmane, who just put his hoof on Grandore’s chest and pushed him onto the ground in a sitting position. “Well then, anyways! Jazz! Come here with those unicorns!” Grandore motioned to a grey unicorn with a short dark grey mane, and four unicorns behind him. “Archmane, please show these four unicorns how to teleport, how to shield themselves with their magic, and how to us an offensive spell of some sort.” Archmane sighed annoyingly and marched off with the four, Jazz following. “Ah! You must be the Earthpony Celestia promised to put into my squad.” Grandore said, noticing the pony. “What is your name?” “It’s Octavia sir. Top of the Earthpony Offensive class.” She said, standing salute. “Well I see your weapons are cello bows, and I’ve seen them at work. Copper handles, and steel wires.” He said smiling at his knowledge of the student. “And I’m also guessing you’re here and you’re in such a grim mood because you have lost a friend, and sister in one day?” He said. “I’ve lost Pinkamena and Vinyl to Luna. I won’t let it go unpunished.” She said with purpose. “Silverspeed reporting for duty!” A grey Pegasus with a grey and white mane landed next to Grandore, Silver bow strapped to her back with a quiver, matching her cutie mark. “And let me guess? Top of Archery?” Grandore said, then stomping his hoof on the ground a diamond bow shot out and he levitated it in front of him, and notched an arrow, “Show me what you got.” He said. Silverspeed then took the bow, notched three arrows, and fire into the air creating a perfect column. Then, right before she could fire the bouncing shot, Grandore’s diamond arrow bounced off one after another, breaking each in half. “You have potential. I’m glad to have you.” Grandore had the two follow him to Archmane who was training the unicorns. “You done?” Grandore said, and Archmane nodded. “Good, Meet Squad Lightbringer, Archmane.” ContactChapter 6: Contact. Squad Lightbringer soon found themselves walking Ponyville’s border, planting the crystal rods into the dirt every so often. Once they had set all the wards they turned and walked back around the border, checking for anything in the forest. “And why are we doing this?” Silverspeed asked as they checked the forest. “Just a hunch, that’s all.” Grandore said. Soon later he paused, eyes widening, “DUCK!” he yelled as he and the rest of the squad dropped to the ground. Soon after a cloud of white shot out of the forest and a projectile sped by. “Why was that?” Archmane asked, as he stood cautiously. A squeaky familiar voice sounded from the forest. “Oh that? That was a confetti ball from my Party Cannon!” A pinky mare soon walked out, pushing a pink cannon. “Pinkamena?” Octavia asked as she took off her helmet and placed it on the ground. “Is that you?” “Octavia?” Pinkie asked as she looked at her sister. “What are you doing with them? They are with Celestia, and I mean, I don’t have anything against Celestia, just the way she leads us, She isn’t that fun anymore, and I thought ‘Hey maybe this is a good idea’ and Luna has a point, so why are you with them!?” Pinkie was staring at her sister. “I’m with them because it’s what our family thinks is right. Or at least, most of our family. Sorry Pinkie.” Octavia looked at her sister with apology in her eyes. “Oh… I see.” Pinkie was clearly sad, her hair deflating. Then, as suddenly as it deflated, it puffed back out and she smiled, “I know! If we can’t settle out difference by this we can have a party and forget about it, right?” She noticed Octavia was putting her helmet on, “Okay, no party? Well then, let’s dance!” Pinkie said with a laugh as she fire the cannon one last time at Grandore, the multicolor projectile having a direct hit on Grandore and launched him back. Pinkie then lunged at her sister. Soon the two squads were fighting, Thunder Flash dashing at Archmane, only to bounce of a protective bubble. Vinyl was throwing what looked like records she used for her gig’s at Silverspeed, who shot each record, and Flim was approaching Grandore, who lay motionless on the ground. “Grandore is it?” Flim asked as he helped the white unicorn up. “It’s an honor to meet you, truly.” “Thanks, wait, your Flim right? Like from the Flim-Flam brothers?” He asked, the stallion nodded. “What happened to your brother?” “He joined your side. I supposed we should be fighting, So let us start fairly, right now.” Flim said planting his hooves in the ground and his horn began to glow as he thought up a spell. A bolt of energy soon shot the air at Grandore, who created a small shield to block it. Grandore responded with an offensive attack, his horn glowed green and he brought his head downwards, then brought it up abruptly, crystals shot out in a line towards the yellow tinted unicorn. The unicorn jumped to the right and avoided the crystals, only to have one shoot out and hit his chest, launching him into the air. Flim recovered while in the air and shot back a series of bolts. The bolts shot fast, landing around Grandore, one landing on his hind leg, just below his cutie mark, and it burned. “I have to finish the fast,” Grandore said to himself and with that he used what spells he could think up. Grandore focused hard, and soon used the air to send Flim flying into a tree, than used the tree to hold Flim still. “You stay.” Grandore said as he looked around to see his student in a protective bubble while Thunder Flash kept bouncing off of it. Grandore soon started to lose consciousness and before he past out, he let out one last air blast at Thunder Flash. ….. “You can’t hold out forever!” Thunder Flash yelled as he kept pounding Archmane’s shield. “But I can outlast you!” Archmane yelled back. No I can’t Archmane thought and right before his shield broke Thunder Flash went speeding off course, into a boulder. Archmane noticed that the blast came from his master, who was laying on the ground unconscious. He’ll be alright Archmane thought and galloped to were Thunder Flash had flew. “Okay, so you didn’t go into a boulder you went through a boulder.” Archmane said aloud as he approached the red Pegasus laying on the ground. Looking down at the pegasus he could tell that he was knocked out, until the pegasus dashed into his chest and launched him into the air. Archmane could only let out a grunt as he spiraled into the sky, and stopped himself with ice magic. Lowering himself to the ground he looked at the Pegasus above him. “I will outlast you Thunder Flash.” He said and his horn began to glow. A split second later a pillar of ice shot out of the ground and hit Thunder Flash, but didn’t launch him out of the sky, instead it froze him in place. “HURRY!” Archmane yelled to the other two ponies. “That pillar will signal the Unicorn mages to start the barrier!” With that he grabbed his master and dragged him behind the wards to where the rest of the squad waited. “Oh…Well that was a fun dance Tavi!” Pinkie said when the barrier went up and blocked her path. “I’ll see you again, I promise.” Safe HavenChapter 7: Safe Haven It was early the next day when Grandore awoke. Not only did he wake, however, he woke with a start, for he had just woke from a horrific nightmare. The nightmare, ironically, was of him burning to death in a fire. “Where in all of Equestria am I!” he yelled. “Don’t worry, Captain, we’re in the hospital.” Octavia said. Grandore then noticed that his entire squad was there. They were out of their armor and were wearing what they naturally wore, Archmane was wearing his watch and a pair of glasses, Octavia wore her bowtie, and Silverspeed had her bow strapped to her back. “Well, not a hospital, the closest thing to a hospital near when you got hurt!” Silverspeed said, walking over to Grandore’s bed. “What do you mean, ‘closest thing to a hospital’!” Grandore yelled out of fear. Am I in an animal clinic? Or worse, A farm with a retired nurse or, or- “You’re checked into what is called the ‘Peace Corp.’” Archmane said from his position at the window. He glanced over at his master, who laid in the bed with bandages covering most of the burn left from Flim’s firebolt. “And who is it ran by?” Grandore asked as he looked between each of his squad members. He was soon answered by a very familiar voice. “Um, that would be me, Grandore, sir.” The yellow pony walked in with her pink mane covering her right eye. “I overheard you from the hall, and, um, I thought I’d stop by and say hi, um, if you don’t mind.” She said. “My name is-“ “Fluttershy, The pony who refuses to fight!” Grandore said, “Excuses me if I’m a tad small bit tipsy, Fluttershy, but your morphine is kicking in!” Grandore laid his head back on the pillow as his leg went numb. “Fluttershy, right? One of Twi and Rarity’s friends?” He asked her. “Oh yes, that would be me.” She said in her quiet, shy tone. “And what is this….Peace Corp?” Grandore asked as politely as he could. “It’s what I created to help anypony in this war that needs medical attention,” She said walking to his bedside, “and you’re the first patient!” She exclaimed her point and gave Grandore a smile as she turned to the rest of his squad. “He’ll be alright, the burn will go away in atleast a day,” She said cheerfully as she turned to leave the room. “Oh, say your good-byes, no visitors in the next hour,” She finished and closed the door. “So… was the mission successful?” Grandore asked curiously. “Or….Did we fail?” “Oh it was successful, I mean, we ARE in Ponyville after all.” Silverspeed said with enthusiasm. With a point of her hoof Grandore looked out the window to see a purple barrier going up infront of the morning sky. “We’ll be here until told otherwise, according to Celestia’s letter!” Silverspeed finished. “Well, I guess it’s time to get settled in.” Grandore said leaning back in his bed. “Squad Lightbringer, You are dismissed from this room, go enjoy a day off in Ponyville.” A Day Off?Chapter 9: A Day Off? Grandore was released from the hospital a day after Squad Lightbringer had their skirmish with P.A.R.T.Y squad. He began to contemplate on where his squad would be found, starting with Archmane. “I wonder where that pony would be…” He began, “Let’s start with the University.” Grandore made his way through the town to the college he spent most of his life working at. “The University of Magical Defense, never thought I’d be back here again.” Grandore walked into the lobby of the large building to see all the students moving in hurry for their early classes. “Hey! Mr. Grandore!” Grandore looked to were the voice came from. He soon found a pink and blue unicorn moving over to him. “Mr. Grandore, I was wondering when you’d be back for the next magic sparring class! You know how much your students love that class!” She said with great happiness. “I’m not here to stay, Moon Glow.” Grandore stated to see the unicorn frown, “I’m only here to get Archmane, we’re late, have you seen him?” “Um. I think I saw him go to the library, check there!” She replied and began to move off to her class. “Great,” Grandore said as he moved through the hallways, passing students, then he opened the largest door in the stone hallway “the largest library in Ponyville.” He said as he stepped into the large library with aisle after aisle of bookcases filled with books on magic spells. “Archmane!” Grandore exclaimed as he finally found the brown unicorn infront of one of the bookcases. “Yes?” Archmane said, turning to his teacher, “What’s wrong?” “We need to go find Silverspeed and Octavia. We need to get moving back to Canterlot for debrief.” Grandore said as he started to drag Archmane through the aisles with haste. “Fine, fine, I’ll go get Silverspeed, you go get Octavia, she should be at the Café.” Archmane said and walked off in the opposite direction of Grandore, who hurried into Ponyville. Grandore finally found himself infront of Ponyville’s Café and found Octavia by herself. “Are you alright Octavia?” Grandore asked as he approached the pony, clearly hurried. “Yes, I’m just pony-watching. Why are you in such a rush?” She asked. “I’d think along the lines of ‘Why are we in such a rush’ come with me.” Grandore said and started to walk off with Octavia rushing to follow. The group soon met up infront of the town hall. “And from here we teleport, Archmane I need your help.” The two unicorns began to focus on their teleportation spell, with a flash of grey and green the squad found themselves infront of Celestia in the meeting room. “Welcome back, Squad Lightbringer. I see that your mission went well.” Celestia said, somewhat pleased. “Yes the mission went well, I was injured, but recovered soon after.” Grandore said. “I was informed. Well then, good on the mission, you are dismissed.” Celestia said and the squad made their way out of the door. “So I guess we still have a day off, except now we’re in Canterlot.” Grandore said as they left the castle and into Canterlot’s open streets. The Sound of War.Chapter 10: The Sound of War. Squad Lightbringer was the first ponies to be woken the next day. The ponies found themselves woken by none other than Celestia at the door. “Awake, my faithful squad,” She began, “it is time.” “Time for what?” The squad asked in unison. Celestia, walked into the center of the room and looked slowly to each pony. “I fear that Shining Armor and Spitfire sent word this morning. Pegasus scouts have spotted NLR troops near the northern mountains. There is to be a skirmish in Wintergrass Valley at noon, and I want you there to support our side.” Celestia finished with clarity. “Yes! When do we set out?” Silverspeed said anxiously. “I’m guessing it’s soon.” Archmane said almost instantly. “Now?” Grandore responded, Celestia only nodded. “Great! Let’s get moving.” Grandore said, throwing on his cloak, the rest of the squad followed. Archmane thowing on his cloak, Silverspeed sliding into her archer uniform, and Octavia equipping her armor. “You will be settling in right at the camp’s landing sight. You should be met by Spitfire and Shining Armor.” Celestia announced and turned to leave the room, “Oh, your Chariot will be waiting outside. You leave in ten minutes.” With that, Celestia left the squad to pack their things. “Spitfire, like the leader of the Wonderbolts, right?” Silverspeed asked as she packed her bag and trotted over to the door. “Yes, that Spitfire.” Grandore and Archmane said at the same time and trotted over to the door with their bags. “Ready, Octavia?” Grandore asked as he looked back. Octavia nodded and with that they left Canterlot. …. P.A.R.T.Y squad had been travelling for days, shortly after Shade Star’s appearance. “Why are we following this guy?” Thunder Flash asked Vinyl, who looked at Pinkie. “Because, the letter said we’d be following him for his time in our squad!” Pinkie announced as she bounced forward. “Besides, why not? I mean, it’s all cool and all, and he’s an alicorn, so I mean, I couldn’t do much against him ‘cause he’s stronger than me!” Pinkie smiled in agreement at her comment. Shade Star only rolled his eyes and dismissed the comment. Shortly later he stopped at the end of a cliff. “Why are we stopping?” Flim asked, Shade Star pointed over the edge of the cliff, and the squad noticed it, the entire NLR army setting up a camp. “That’s why. We’re here for the first battle of this war.” He announced and trotted off into the camp, the rest of the squad moving to get ready. …. Squad Lightbringer found themselves landing in the camp shortly after they left. As soon as they stepped off the chariot they found themselves looking at a uniformed unicorn and pegasus. “It’s nice to see you again, Grandore” Shining Armor said, shaking hooves with Grandore, then nodding at Archmane, “You too, Archmane.” “So, how long until the battle starts?” Grandore asked. “We’re waiting for our scouts to return, we haven’t seen any sight of them from here.” Spitfire responded. They looked to the sky when they heard the sound of flapping wings. The pegasus scouting squad landed and one of the ponies spoke something to Spitfire, then trotted off with his squad. “Turns out, a small squad of five ponies just arrived from the south. The army has started moving, we will move to ready for the battle.” Spitfire said, then turned to Shining Armor, “I’ll have my archers move to flank the left.” She finished and trotted off. “I need to have a letter sent to Twi, she needs to know that the battle is starting. You four get ready, I want you on the front lines.” Shining Armor said, he turned and disappeared into a nearby tent. “Okay!” Grandore turned around, with a smile, to observe his squad. “I want us to stick close, I don’t want us splitting up,” Grandore pointed at Octavia, “You’ll be in front, you have the most armor, Archmane will surround us with a protective shield of ice so that archers will not be able to pick us off, Silverspeed, I want you to….honestly I don’t know, just follow my lead I guess.” Grandore stomped onto the ground, four small diamond daggers shot out of the ground and levitated around him. “Those are new, they look experimental.” Archmane said. He glanced over and saw the army moving, the squad fell into their position. “They are, I hope I don’t screw up.” Grandore said and trotted forward. The battle started an hour later when the squad heard the sound of arrows flying through the air, and the sound of battle cries. …. The two armies met in the center of Wintergrass Valley. They battle started off gruesome, Squad Lightbringer leading the charge, their ice shield taking ten arrows a minute. The NLR pushed, ponies roaring with moral. The squad’s shield shattered when a streak of lightning rammed into Archmane from above, separating him from the group. Octavia found herself fighting two Earth ponies with a sword in one’s mouth, and a pair of daggers strapped to the other’s hooves. Grandore found himself fighting a unicorn hidden under a cloak. Silverspeed flew into the air to start picking ponies off with her arrows. Archmane was lifted into the air by the pegasus that had crashed into him, Thunder Flash. “Let go of me!” Archmane yelled, landing a head-butt on the pegasus. Archmane began to fall when the pony let go of him, only to be caught again by Silverspeed. “You need to be more careful,” Silverspeed said, letting Archmane off onto the ground. Archmane only grumbled and brought his attention back to Thunder Flash. Octavia was becoming overwhelmed by the two ponies, when an arrow landed into the sword wielding pony’s head. She stared at the pony with horror as he fell to the ground. She quickly recovered and blocked the other pony’s attack and continued to fight him. The continued to go on for hours as the ponies pushed back and forth in hopes of winning. No Choice.Chapter 11: No Choice. The battle went on for what seemed like days. Over time the two forces receded back into their camps in hope to rest. P.A.R.T.Y squad found their tent set up and waiting for them in the heart of the camp. The dark blue and purple tent stood out of the rest of tents with the squad’s insignia on it, Pinkie’s cutie mark, with the balloons colored white and black. “This place seems pretty cool.” Vinyl said when she entered the oversized tent. “I never slept in a tent before, this is sooooo cool!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed from her bed in the back of the tent. She proceeded to jump on her bed. “Let’s hurry up in settle in before that Shade Star pony shows up,” Thunder Flash began, “he gives me the creeps, and I should know creeps, I spent a night in the Everfree.” Thunder Flash stopped for a moment to recollect himself, “Or was that just yesterday? I really do not like that place.” He finished, jump onto his bed. Flim, already settled into his bed, smirked at Thunder Flash’s comment then lied back in the bed. The squad was soon sound asleep in their tent. ..... Shade Star walked into the commanding tent and, after making sure it was clear, he started up a telekinetic link. A hologram of Princess Luna appeared infront of him. “I see you’re moving along well with your magic.” She said. Shade only nodded. “Well, I see from these reports, the battle was undecided, shame, I was hoping we could have had a first victory.” “Did I not do as expected?” Shade asked, looking at the princess. Luna only nodded than preceded. “No, you did well not showing up in battle, we need you for the next battle, that will make us a definite win.” Luna let out a small laugh, “Go, rest my child, you have an important day tomorrow.” “Yes, mother.” Shade turned and left the tent, making his way back to his tent for a night sleep, for tomorrow he had no choice but to fight. InjuriesChapter 11: Injuries. “Move out of the way, we have a severly injured!” the NLR medic pony yelled pushing Shade Star through the paths of the camp on a stretcher. “Move your flanks everypony, I need help here!” Multiple medics soon found their way to the incapacitated alicorn, soon moving him into the nearest empty tent. The medics set to work on the injured alicorn, who grunted in pain as they started to work a plan together. “Sorry sir, we don’t have anything to calm the pain, you’ll have to tough it out.” “What’s your name, stallion.” Shade Star ordered. “It’s Healing Hand, sir.” The stallion said as the medics came to the conclusion. “Sorry, sir, we can’t reattach the wing, you won’t be able to fly again.” He finish and went to stitching the wound. “Don’t be sorry, I was so headstrong to take them on at once.” Shade Star said and sat up after the medic finished. “Leave me, Healing Hand. You and the rest of you are dismissed.” With that, the medics left and Shade Star spent the rest of the night being debriefed by Princess Luna. ….. Archmane stumbled through the camp, holding up Grandore with his right foreleg. “Hold on, Grandore, we’re almost there.” Archmane quickly looked for Silverspeed, who wasn’t too far behind. “Silverspeed, Help me out!” With that she flew over and picked up Grandore’s other foreleg. “Captain, stay with us!” She said as they quickly rushed to the medics tent, were they quickly began patching up Grandore. After the medics had left, Archmane entered the tent to visit Grandore, followed by the rest of his squad. “Are you alright, Captain?” Silverspeed asked as they entered. “Hmm? Yea, nothing too serious, just a few broken ribs and some stitches. I’ll be out of here soon if I can get some good medical help. Sadly, this means we have to go back to Canterlot.” Grandore said with a sigh. “What’s so bad about that.” Archmane laughed as he propped himself on the bed, “Afraid to talk to Celestia face to face?” “Yes.” Grandore said then leaned back and staired at the ceiling of the tent. “I need some rest, You all are dismissed.” With that, Grandore went to sleep and the rest of the squad left to fulfill their duties in the camp. Placement ManagementChapter 12: Placement Management. Squad Lightbringer left early in the morning to ensure safety back to Canterlot from any NLR archers. When they arrived they found their captain surrounded by medical staff, waiting to treat his wounds. After hours of vigorous treatment the Archmane and the rest of the squad finally was able to see Grandore. “Glad to see you okay.” Archmane said with a gruff tone as he entered the room. “Celestia sent you a letter and asked for you to read it aloud to the entire squad…in private.” He finished with tossing the letter to his mentor. “Why would she send a letter, and not tell me myself?” Grandore picked up the letter and read aloud. “To my faithful squad, Lightbringer. I am happy to announce the winning of Wintergrass Valley and to also inform you of our efforts in moving south to Appleloosa, in hopes to cut off the NLR’s food supplies. I am also happy to inform that your squad member, Archmane will be rewards the ‘Will of Iron’ metal for showing great courage in the battlefield, and to defeat an Alicorn. In addition to his medal I would be honored if he join Me, Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, and Spitfire as the new Unicorn Commander of the Solar Empire. I would also like to Congratulate you, Grandore. For I am promoting you to the rank of Unicorn Captain, in hopes that you can help us teach the Unicorns. And Finally, I am awarding you all with the “Valiant Shield” medal for leading us to this victory. The ceremony will be tomorrow at noon. Stand Strong, Squad Lightbring, Princess Celestia." The Squad stood silently as the news took effect on all of them. Almost as if on cue, they all turned and congratulated Archmane. They all announced that they would miss him and that it wouldn’t be the same in the squad, then they turned to Grandore. “Does this mean you’re leaving us too, Captain?” Silverspeed asked sadly. “I do not now, Silverspeed, I don’t know. She wants me to train the unicorns and lead this squad. I will try my best to balance both.” He answered. “However, it is wonderful to see that we all receive and medal also. We can’t have Archmane taking all the glory.” They laughed at the joke their captain had made and wondered how the ceremony will go. “You are dismissed, Squad Lightbringer. And you Archmane, this will be your last dismissing you’ll receive from me for a long, long time.” With that, the squad left the room at the original Squad Lightbringer. Royal CeremonyChapter 13: Royal Ceremony. The day was early, ponies from all over the Solar Empire gathered for the ceremony they heard about. Princess Celestia stood upon the stage, the four pony squad standing behind her. Once everypony had gathered Celestia began the ceremony. “Thank you for showing up everypony, this ceremony if very important for today we label our Unicorn Commander.” Turning to Archmane, Celestia levitated a folded up cape and a medal shaped like to fist crossing eachother. “Archmane, I award you with the ‘Will of Iron’ medal for showing courage on the battle field. I also award you with this,” pulling out the cape to show everypony, the cape was gold with white trim, a picture of two crossed glowing unicorn horns on the side. “I am honored to call you our new Unicorn Commander.” With that, Archmane knelt and went on to give the rest of the squad the ‘Valiant Shield’ medal, then she stopped at Grandore. “Grandore, I am honored to give you a promotion too. For today Grandore, you are now ‘Unicorn Captain’ and the new teacher of our Unicorn recruits. And still the leader of Squad Lightbringer.” “Thank you, Celestia, and I have something for Archmane.” Grandore walked to the front of the stage and turned to Archmane. “My Apprentice, I have a medal for you too.” Grandore pulled out a medal that looked like a solar eclipse, “This is the medal that only people who have fulfilled their role in Squad Lightbringer earn, this is the Lightbringer insignia.” Grandore pinned the medal on Archmane and smiled, with that the remaining ponies who were watching the ceremony had dispersed and, after saying their goodbyes, Lightbringer had left too, leaving only Celestia and Archmane. “I’m going to miss them.” Archmane said as he watched his squad walk away. “I would hope not, they will be at a good majority of your Operations.” Celestia looked at Archmane and smiled. “Now go on, there’s a Chariot waiting for you, go get ready and go. Shining Armor and Spitfire are going to need you there soon.” “Okay, your majesty.” With that Archmane walked off from where Celestia stood. Not so funny, now is it?Chapter 3: Not so funny, Now is it? It was shortly after the sun went down and the moon rose into the sky, stars littering the blackness of the night’s sky. That’s when Thunder Flash noticed the lights eradiating from Ponyville Square. Curious he flew down to see what was happening. Landing amongst the crowds of ponies he watched as Princess Luna stepped up in front of the crowd. “Hello everypony,” she began, “I would like to thank you all for showing up, and I would like to inform you of something,” she looked around the crowd, “but my sister already told you all that she and I are at war. I’m not going to tell you this big story, or try to exaggerate the truth. I will tell you, however, that it is time for a new leader in Equestria, and is not going to include Celestia.” She finished with such sureness in her voice. “Upon my say of the NLR I will ask you all one thing. Will you join me?” She finished her speech and everypony in the crowd was quiet. This continued on for moments until a familiar voice from earlier broke the silence. “I will.” The figure floated over to the princess and turned around, revealing herself as Rainbow Dash. “I guess I should, I mean why not?” The happy voice said as the Pink pony walked up showing herself as Pinkie Pie. That’s when Thunder Flash noticed, this was all real. And Luna was right, there needs to be a new leader of Equestria, and it’s going to be him. “I will.” The pegasus said and flew over to Luna landing next to her, followed by a hundred others. “Good,” The princess began, “and time is of the essence so I will begin with your roles.” ….. “I can’t believe that pegasus!” Grandore began, marching down corridors. On his way to his old tower in Canterlot, followed by Archmane. “First he laughs in Celestia’s face, then turns on her! Who does he think he is!” Grandore exclaimed, grabbing the nearest thing, which was a chair to the table of one of the outdoor cafés, and threw it at the café’s wall, breaking the chair in multiple places. Sighing, he took some bits and slid it through the door’s mail slot, and continued walking. “Oh, that’s the funniest thing I ever heard, ha-ha,” Grandore said, making a horrible impression of the pegasus as they found the tower’s door and began going up the steps. “I mean seriously, Archmane, who does he think he is!? “He’s a colt in the time of war.” Archmane said, closing his eyes as they made their way up the stairs, “and this war is a horrible time for a colt. This will be when brothers fight brothers, husbands against wives, father against son, mother against daughter.” The grim sounding in Archmane’s voice was like a blizzard, cold and harsh. “I want this war to end as soon as possible, too.” He finished as they reached the top of the tower and Grandore opened the door, revealing large room with one large window, multiple bookshelves, a desk with quill, parchment, and ink, and a bunk bed. “Well this is new,” Grandore said looking at the bunk bed. “I guess Celestia had this put in when we arrived, take whatever bunk you want, I might not be getting much sleep anyways.” Grandore walked over to the desk, using his telekinesis to move the chair out, he sat down and levitated the quill, began writing. “The first thing you do when we get back to you home town, write? Are you serious?” Archmane said, walking up to the desk, then sliding to the side, he looked through the window. “The window opens onto a balcony.” Grandore mentioned with ease as he wrote. Levitating a book over to him every ten or twenty minutes. Archmane walked out onto the balcony and stared out over Canterlot, he continued to stare over the city when a knock came to the door. “Come in!” Grandore said like he had said it for a thousand years, and Twilight walked in. “Grandore?” Twilight asked and Grandore put down the quill and stood, turning to the lavender pony. “Twilight, is something wrong?” Grandore said, noticing the sadness in her face, Archmane refusing to turn grunted and looked at her. “You hate this war already, Twilight.” He said, revealing no emotion. “That, and you never told Spike you were leaving.” “Yes, I hate this war, Yes, I forgot to tell Spike I was leaving. I just wish this war was over and I didn’t have to fight against my friends.” She said, “knowing Spike, he’ll find his way here, or Celestia will teleport him.” “Well, I could do it for you, if you want?” Grandore said, his horn already glowing, anticipating her response. With a flash of green Spike stood in the room with them. “Twilight! What’s going on? Why weren’t you home?” Spike was ready to ask Twilight a million questions. “Spike, Celestia and Luna are at war. And we joined Celestia. This is Grandore and Archmane.” She motioned to the Unicorns and then Spike looked at her. “We? But that doesn’t make sense! I saw Applejack and Pinkie Pie earlier and Rainbow was clearing the skies while Fluttershy was helping a cat that was stuck in a tree!” Spike said. “Rarity and I joined. We just found out that Pinkie and Rainbowdash joined Princess Luna.” She said, the pain clearly showing. Spike just sighed and stood there. “Where are you staying Twilight?” Grandore said looking at her, “are you staying at your old place? That large library of yours?” “Yes, actually I am, I think we should be going.” She said, motioning for spike to follow her. “Goodnight Grandore, and good luck with your squad, we all could us a little light in these dark, dark days.” Grandore closed the door behind her and then looked to Archmane, who had turned around and was leaning against the frame of the window, looking at Grandore. “Did I ever tell you how you have the ability to shapeshift, or see possible the future?” Grandore said, sitting on the bottom bunk of the beds. Archmane only shook his head. “You can do those things because your family is a long line of Alicorns. Not related to Celestia, but were very important of the old Royal Courts. I used to work with them, we were good friends, now that I think of it.” He said, Archmane looked on curiously, as he always did when his parents were brought up. “You can’t see this because its blocked, not physically, but magically, in your mind. You parent’s didn’t want you to find out until I thought it was time, so I told you.” He finished, waiting for a response. “Why don’t I look like one then?” Archmane said. “Because, unlike Celestia’s family, the alicorns in your family weren’t original, somewhere in your family tree are two ponies, one was once the wisest of unicorns, Starseeker. The other was the ultimate pegasi, Wind Weaver. These two ponies were phenomenal ponies, but their children, all three, were Alicorns. One went on to travel the worlds beyond this one, she was named Galaxy Walker. She disappeared, and has not reappeared. The other, went on to travel into this one, to find out its secrets. He was named Ground Shaker. He died in a massive cave in somewhere far from here. The final one though, went on to live with a family. His children had children, but they weren’t alicorns. He was named Time Watcher. For he looked into the future, and found out that the alicorn gene skips a generation. He also came to the conclusion that those who didn’t receive the alicorn appearance, gained some form of strength from alicorn nature, all including the height. Some had speed, others strength, and in your case, the powerful magic.” Grandore let the story sink in and then looked at Archmane, “Get some sleep, we need to be up early to observe the trainings.” Grandore walked to the desk and went to writing while Archmane laid on the bed and went to sleep. First AssignmentsChapter 5: First Assignments. It was late when Thunder Flash was called into meeting. He walked in to find his squad waiting for him. Pinkie Pie was waiting eagerly, two other ponies with her, both were Unicorns. Luna stepped out from the shadows and greeted all of the ponies with a smile as they bowed. “Please stand, I wish to have you all greeted and ready to move by dawn.” Luna said and motioned for them to stand. “P.A.R.T.Y squad, you consist of,” She began by pointing to Pinkie and continued on, “Pinkie Pie, Vinyl Scratch, Flim, and Thunder Flash.” Thunder Flash looked at the white pony with the mixture of blue mane, and the yellow stallion with a red and white mane. They went on to greet each other and turned to Luna when she cleared her throat. “Your first assignment,” she motion to the map on the wall behind them, putting her hoof on the circle with the label ‘Ponyville’, “Is to set a perimeter around Ponyville. Everything that goes in or comes out must be recorded.” With that the squad was dismissed, and they soon later were leaving the camp in the Everfree, wearing armors of different types. Pinkie was wearing a light cloth-like armor, metal protecting her chest, and back. Thunder Flash was wearing light metal, same of what Luna’s Pegasus guard wore, the metal was red and the trim was blue. Vinyl scratch and Flim, however, refused to wear armor. They continued on through the Everfree and made a camp at the boarder of Ponyville. ….. “Get set, We’re moving!” Grandore said as he slammed the door open. “Celestia gave us our first mission.” He said as he threw on his new cloak, a white silk cloak with gold trim and the emblem of The Solar Empire on it. “What, already?” Archmane said, sitting up looking at his mentor. He soon found himself throwing his Solar Empire cloak on too. “We just got together, and we’re being sent out?” “It’s about time! I was getting bored up in this tower!” Silverspeed said, putting on her light Pegasus armor. “What’s the assignment?” Octavia said, walking up to Grandore, already wearing her armor, her weapons and a bag were strapped to her back. “Celestia is sending us to Ponyville, we are to set up a series of wards around the perimeter so the mages can build a protective bubble around Ponyville, like they’ve done here.” He said, pointing out the window. When the ponies looked out the window they noticed that the sky was yellow, and soon noticed that it was a shield, not the sky itself. “We are to move immediately.” Grandore said as he walked out the door, the ponies following him. They found themselves flying out of Canterlot on a chariot. A New Member.Chapter 8: A New Member. It was near dusk when the courier arrived at the camp were Thunder Flash’s squad was staying. The courier landed and gave Pinkie a letter and left in a hurry. “Oh boy! Another pony is coming to our squad! I need to hurry and set up a party for him!” Pinkie hurried to set up for the stranger pony, using her party cannon to set up various supplies for the party. “I like parties as much as the next pony,” Vinyl Scratch began, “but really? One for just the simplest of things?” She looked to the nearest pony to back her up, ironically Thunder Flash was flying close by. “Thunder! Back me up on this?” She motioned to Pinkie. “I don’t mind, I mean a party is a party right?” Thunder Flash looked at Pinkie, then was confused when she pulled a tray of cupcakes from her mane. “How did you..?” he began, “Where did you get the cupcakes?” “I always carry supplies for an emergency party with me!” Pinkie exclaimed with joy as she continued. “Sorry Vinyl, no help here” Thunder Flash shrugged and continued to fly around the forest. “Okay…No help, atleast tell us why this pony is sooo important.” Vinyl demanded from her perch in the tree. “Well, duh, He’s the second in command of the NLR and he’s an Alicorn!” Pinkie exclaimed. “His name is Shade Star!” “What!? An Alicorn!” Vinyl became a bit more tense and worried. Flim was automatically interested in the conversation, and Thunder Flash stopped flying to listen in. “Yea! That’s why I’m in such a hurry!” Pinkie then sped up. ….. It was around midnight when he arrived. The Alicorn stepped from the darkness into the moonlight to reveal his features. He looked like a typical Alicorn, wings and a horn. His coat was dark grey, and his mane and tail was black and white. He scanned over the squad infront of him with his black eyes. He then was struck with a wave of confusion when he noticed that there was a scene for a party infront of him. “Don’t worry, she had it all with her apparently.” Vinyl said from the tree branch. Shade continued to look at Pinkie in confusion. “What’s the matter Shade Star, Gummy got your tongue?” Thunder Flash said from the air next to Vinyl Scratch. Thunder Flash continued to hoof bump Vinyl Scratch then laughed. “Come here.” Shade Star commanded Thunder Flash, his voice sounding like that of a gust of wind. Thunder Flash glided over to Shade Star. “Closer.” Thunder Flash lowered himself a bit closer. “Closer….” Shade Star reared onto his hind legs as Thunder Flash got close enough. “No don’t you EVER talk to us like that!” Shade Star said as he hit Thunder Flash in the back of the head with his hoof. Thunder Flash grunted in pain as he fell to the forest floor. “Now. It’s time for the real reason I’m here.” Shade Star finished. A Battle for the Books.Chapter 12: A Battle for the Books. The second battle woke at dawn in Wintergrass Valley. The two armies lined each side of the valley, then with no warning, charged at each other. The only difference in this morning was that, without a doubt, Shade Star was leading the NLR into battle, wings spread and horn pointed in front of him. Most of the Solar Empire stopped in fear, except for Squad Lightbringer, who continued to charge out of shock. “Archmane, We have you with us, no worries.” Grandore whispered when the rest of the army froze. The two squads clashed, and almost instantly, Grandore and Archmane released a spell creating a magical barrier around them. “It’s a one way barrier,” Grandore had stated years ago when he first taught it to Archmane, “anypony can leave, except for the casters, but once left they can’t re-enter.” Archmane preceded to launch offensive attacks at Thunder Flash, not to let him get close. Pinkie went to fighting Octavia with Flim at her side, Silverspeed shot bolts as fast as she could at Vinyl. Grandore jumped at Shade, launching crystals out of the ground all around Shade, only to be dodged. Shade jumped into the air and twirled, launching a flurry of feathers outwards hitting Grandore along the side and chest. Then, smiling, he released what looked like a wolf of darkness out of his horn which knocked Grandore to the ground, then slid him across the dirt to Archmane’s hooves. “No…” Archmane looked at his teacher, anger covering his face, “No!” Archmane roared, sending frost out through the bubble, launching everypony out except for him, Grandore, and Shade Star. “You…You killed him!” Archmane’s eyes went from black to the light blue color of ice, ice forming armor around his body and wings of ice sprouting from his back, “Now…Now I will kill you!” With that Archmane dashed across the ground at an insane speed, hitting Shade in the chest and knocking him back. Archmane brought his head back and rolled it, ice being formed in the air. He pointed his horn at Shade Star and released the spell, launching a long, dragon shaped ice mass at Shade, who threw constant dark wolves at it. When the dragon hit Shade it knocked him to the ground, when he went to get up he found Archmane holding him down. Archmane then grabbed Shade’s right wing with his mouth and pulled as hard as he could, multiple pops and rips sounded as Shade’s wing slowly peeled off his body as he screamed out in pain. “Arch…mane?” Grandore stood, his white coat covered in crimson. Archmane turned normal and teleported to Grandore. After grabbing him he teleported the two of them to the camp along with the rest of the squad, where they spent the rest of the day. A Surprising PromotionChapter 14: A Surprising Promotion. Thunderflash woke in his tent to see not only Shade Star staring at him, but the Princess of the Night herself staring at him. “Princess!” Thunderflash yelped as he fell out of bed and scrambled around until he regained his composure. “Um, huh. What are you doing here Princess?” Thunderflash questioned as Luna stared at the young pegasi, laughing in her mind. “I am here to inform you that you are being put under a new command. And will no long be a part of P.A.R.T.Y squad.” Luna began, “You will be working with two other pegasi.” “…Okay, who?” Thunderflash asked quickly, wondering why he was being moved from his squad. “You are being put into a 3 pegasi scouting squad, involving you, and our two best flyers. Flight Marshal Rainbow Dash, and Lieutenant Cloud Dasher. You and Cloud Dasher will be working under Rainbow Dash’s command as long you two remain in this squad.” Luna stated. “Okay, is that all Princess? I need to sleep if I’m going to be scouting all night and day.” Thunderflash asked. “Not yet, you must report to your new tent, follow these directions” Luna said, handing Thunderflash a map and then stating, “You start tonight, good luck” Luna said, then leaving with Shade Star following close behind. Thunderflash left, and soon found his new tent. A tent black and purple, with a rainbow colored lightning bolt above the door, after meeting Rainbow Dash, he noticed it was her cutie mark. Then Thunderflash met Cloud Dasher, a white coated pony with an orange and red mane and tail. “Nice to meet both of you and all, but I need some shut eye if I’m flying tonight.” Thunderflash stated, finding the nearest empty bed and flopping down into it, now later than a minute he was asleep.
The Division.Chapter 1: The Division. It was a normal day in Equestria, ponies going on and on with their everyday lives, when the royal chariot landed in Ponyville Square. Ponies from all over Ponyville showed up almost instantly and bowed to hear the news. Celestia stood tall and regal over her subjects when a flash of green appeared and two unicorns in cloaks with the symbol of the Equestion University of Magical Defenese on them. “Celestia, Its been a while.” The one with a green and purple mane said. “This is my Apprentice, ArchMane.” He gestured to the one on the left, who was the height of the Alicorn, and bowed. He stood and eyes level. “It’s a pleasure.” Minutes later a flash a purple shot out next to Celestia, Revealing Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack. “Princess! What’s wrong?” Twilight said. “I will soon answer my student, we have three more guest arriving.” She said looking up to Cloudsdale, When three ponies, two being Fluttershy and Rainbowdash who took their places with Twilight, and the third being a Red and Blue maned pregasis who landed next to the Green and purple maned unicorn. “Hey, I’m Thunder Flash, you?” he said. “I’m Grandore, and this is my apprentice ArchMane.” Grandore motioned to the tall pony next to him. “Hello, I can’t talk, only listen to the Princess and her speech.” He said. “Thank you for showing upon us, my subjects.” She smiled to the crowd. “I fear I do not arrive to Ponyville out of pleasure, but of urgent warning. For today my dear sister, Luna, has betrayed us, and wishes to take over our lives, and our world, out of greed.” She said, and then looked away, tears gently going down her face. “She is collecting an army, called the New Lunar Republic. And she intends to kill all who stand in her way. She wishes to make a government in which were ANYPONY can lead us. No, not just I and my sister who have kept you safe, or not just me. Anypony, including the most inexperienced. I wish to ask your help, all of you, in stopping her. I wish to ask you to join me, and fight her. I will train all of you, and we will stop her. And we will be named, The Solar Empire.” She said standing tall. “Who will come with me?” she asked, eyes beckoning. Thunder Flash, after Celestia was done, let out a series of laughs and then looked at her, whipping his eyes, “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard!” He said continuing his laughing crisis. “When have I lied or joked with my subjects?!” Celestia let out warning. “Who will join me!” she said. “I will, Princess” Twilight said. Standing directly next to her teacher. “Well I certainly cannot stand here and do nothing. I will.” Rarity said, walking over to Celestia. “Well, My former colleague asking for help, I will Celestia.” Grandore said, turning his head to ArchMane. “Will you, Archie?” ArchMane stared at the Princess, and the turned to look at Grandore directly, “What did I say about calling me that, old stallion!” ArchMane said giving Grandore a little push, “Yes. I will gladly support Princess Celestia.” The two unicorns walked over to Celestia with many other ponies, none of them including ThunderFlash. “What about you Applejack? Pinkie Pie? Fluttershy? Dash?” Twilight said looking to each of them. “Well, I can’t Twi! I got my work to do on the farm, and I can’t let a war interfere.” She said, staring apologetically . Twilight nodded in understanding “Same here, Twilight. I gotta help the Cakes!” Pinkie said and looked to both Celestia and Twilight. “Cloudsdale has me and 24/7 weather patrol. Sorry.” Rainbowdash said. “And I can’t fight anypony, Twilight, you know that….I’ll stay in Ponyville and look after the animals and other ponies.” “Well, I see your minds are made up, off we go then!” Celestia said, letting Twilight, Grandore, Archmane, and Rarity sit in her chariot while the other ponies were ushered into the newly arriving chariots. “Roughly two hundred and ten ArchMane! Ponies support you all the way Celestia.” Grandore said. “Support of others is what I fear. Grandore.” She said as they flew to Canterlot.
Betrayal.Chapter 2: Betrayal. It was dusk when they arrived in Canterlot’s courtyard, and they were immediately ushered into the throne room, where every pony stood in attention when Celestia stood up in front of the crowd. “I would like to officially welcome you all to the Solar Empire,” She said scanning and seeing the anxious faces, “And for those of you who wish to begin their training now….I am sorry it will begin tomorrow at sunrise. Now the Royal Guards will take you to your living quarters. Enjoy your night.” She finished. And everypony left except for Twilight, Rarity, Grandore, and Archmane. “Thank you for staying” Celestia said after the room was empty, “Follow me,” She said stepping down from the throne and led them through a series of corridors until they reached a room that was at the top of one of the many towers in Canterlot. The room consisted of a long table, six chairs, and windows on each wall. Celestia took her place at the end of the table infront of one of the windows, while the four ponies took the seats on the sides of the table, Twilight next to Rarity, and Archmane next to Grandore. “This is where the five of us will meet from now on. Tonight, however I will assign you all your roles in the army.” Celestia said. “I will lead us, but under the circumstances, I need to make the public appearances. So, Twilight, I assign you as Grand Admiral of the army. You will Command in my place. Under your command are three captains, one of which,” She said looking to Rarity, “Rarity you are captain of the ground forces, and you will also be the Recruiting officer, is that alright with you?” Rarity nodded. “Who’s the others?” Twilight said. “Oh, some of them you know quite well, the other you met once or twice, their joining us tonight, actually.” She said, then the door opened, revealing a White pony in gold and purple armor, and a pink alicorn, and a yellow pegasus who walked in with him. As the ponies approached the table. The one in the armor was taking his helmet off and laying it on the table, Revealing a light blue and cobalt colored mane. “Shining Armor! Cadence!” Twilight said running to them and hugging them, “Oh its been so long!” “Yes it has, Twi,” Shining armor said and Cadence smiled at her, Then they noticed Grandore and Archmane. “Are you two who I think you are?” Cadence said, “Grandore and Archmane?” She said and they nodded, “It’s a pleasure” She said. “Its our pleasure.” The two unicorns said and bowed and stood back. “Spitfire here will be commanding the airforce, while Shining Armor commands the Unicorns, Twilight.” Celestia said motioning to the yellow Pegasus, who smiled. “Cadence, I will need you for public appearances with me, and to lead medical.” Cadence nodded. “What about us?” Grandore said, Archmane staring intently at the Princess. “You two are too valuable, I need you to stay here with me.” Celestia said. And everypony in the room looked at her, shocked. “Do you know how powerful they are!” Twilight exclaimed, almost yelling. “Grandore’s one of the strongest unicorns in all of Equestria! Archmane is…a bit weaker, but he’s his apprentice!” “Twilight, I’m nowhere as strong as you, considering you’re her protégé and the element of magic, afterall.” Grandore said. “And they are too valuable. They must stay.” Celestia said. “No we won’t.” Everypony looked at the voice of Archmane, who was glaring at Celestia. “You have already decided that, afterall.” He added, smiling. “You are smart, Archmane, or can you just see the future?” She said, laughing at her own comment, “Yes, I do. I’m assigning you two to lead the Special Operations Squad, Lightbringer.” “Well now, Special operations? When will we get our recruits?” Grandore said. “You will receive them tomorrow when they are assigned. Two ponies will be given, an Earthpony, and a Pegasus, top of their class.” Celestia said. And little did the ponies notice, it was already near midnight, and a pegasus guard burst into the tower room. “Princess Celestia! I have important news from our spies!” the guard said. “What is it?” They all said in unison. “Luna gained around two-hundred ponies. 3 we’re promoted on the spot. One was put as Flight Marshal, Her name is Rainbow Dash.” All the ponies looked in shock, Rarity and Twilight were most affected. “The other was promoted to Special Forces, her squad name is P.A.R.T.Y, her name is Pinkie Pie.” Twilight and Rarity had tears going down their face by then. “And the last one was assigned to her group, his name is Thunder Flash.”
Future TrueChapter 4: Future True. Archmane woke with a start. He had a horrible dream of death and torture, and he didn’t like it. He jumped out of the bed and ran over to the balcony, the sun just rising, it was morning. Sighing, he saw the city alive with ponies moving amongst each other in a rush. He closed the window and locked it, once he get himself together, he grabbed the key of Grandore’s desk and opened the door, finding a pony in barding, and steel plates protecting her chest, neck, and back. Plates went down her legs and were met with metal boots, her helmet sitting next to her on the ground. On her back were two weapons crossed in an x shape, the weapons however, had a strange shape. “Hello?” She said looking at him, he didn’t notice but her coat was light grey, and her mane a darker gray, her eyes purple, “Are you Grandore?” “No, I’m his apprentice, Archmane, who are you?” He asked. “I would rather not answer that at the moment, are you going to him?” She said. “Yes, come with me if you’d like.” Archmane said, pushing past her. She carried her helmet with him and when they entered the sunlight, he could now see the patterns of the plate armor, and tell what the weapons looked like. Her armor was white, with pink trim around the edges, on her left side was a large shoulder plate that went from the middle of her back, down to the middle of her front foreleg, designed to protect but had cuts for mobility. On the shoulder was a pink musical symbol, from what Archmane could tell, was a Treble Cleff. “Are those violin bows on your back?” He asked. “No their cello bows. Notice their a bit larger. And, however, the bow itself is copper and the string is a ton of tiny sharpened steel wires stringed together.” She pointed out. “Two swords with many small blades is the idea?” Archmane said, the pony only smiled. They continued onto the training area were they found Grandore, sitting aside grinning at those who trained eagerly. “Oh Archmane, Perfect timing!” Grandore stood on his hind legs and spreading his forelegs, looking like he was going to hug Archmane, who just put his hoof on Grandore’s chest and pushed him onto the ground in a sitting position. “Well then, anyways! Jazz! Come here with those unicorns!” Grandore motioned to a grey unicorn with a short dark grey mane, and four unicorns behind him. “Archmane, please show these four unicorns how to teleport, how to shield themselves with their magic, and how to us an offensive spell of some sort.” Archmane sighed annoyingly and marched off with the four, Jazz following. “Ah! You must be the Earthpony Celestia promised to put into my squad.” Grandore said, noticing the pony. “What is your name?” “It’s Octavia sir. Top of the Earthpony Offensive class.” She said, standing salute. “Well I see your weapons are cello bows, and I’ve seen them at work. Copper handles, and steel wires.” He said smiling at his knowledge of the student. “And I’m also guessing you’re here and you’re in such a grim mood because you have lost a friend, and sister in one day?” He said. “I’ve lost Pinkamena and Vinyl to Luna. I won’t let it go unpunished.” She said with purpose. “Silverspeed reporting for duty!” A grey Pegasus with a grey and white mane landed next to Grandore, Silver bow strapped to her back with a quiver, matching her cutie mark. “And let me guess? Top of Archery?” Grandore said, then stomping his hoof on the ground a diamond bow shot out and he levitated it in front of him, and notched an arrow, “Show me what you got.” He said. Silverspeed then took the bow, notched three arrows, and fire into the air creating a perfect column. Then, right before she could fire the bouncing shot, Grandore’s diamond arrow bounced off one after another, breaking each in half. “You have potential. I’m glad to have you.” Grandore had the two follow him to Archmane who was training the unicorns. “You done?” Grandore said, and Archmane nodded. “Good, Meet Squad Lightbringer, Archmane.”
ContactChapter 6: Contact. Squad Lightbringer soon found themselves walking Ponyville’s border, planting the crystal rods into the dirt every so often. Once they had set all the wards they turned and walked back around the border, checking for anything in the forest. “And why are we doing this?” Silverspeed asked as they checked the forest. “Just a hunch, that’s all.” Grandore said. Soon later he paused, eyes widening, “DUCK!” he yelled as he and the rest of the squad dropped to the ground. Soon after a cloud of white shot out of the forest and a projectile sped by. “Why was that?” Archmane asked, as he stood cautiously. A squeaky familiar voice sounded from the forest. “Oh that? That was a confetti ball from my Party Cannon!” A pinky mare soon walked out, pushing a pink cannon. “Pinkamena?” Octavia asked as she took off her helmet and placed it on the ground. “Is that you?” “Octavia?” Pinkie asked as she looked at her sister. “What are you doing with them? They are with Celestia, and I mean, I don’t have anything against Celestia, just the way she leads us, She isn’t that fun anymore, and I thought ‘Hey maybe this is a good idea’ and Luna has a point, so why are you with them!?” Pinkie was staring at her sister. “I’m with them because it’s what our family thinks is right. Or at least, most of our family. Sorry Pinkie.” Octavia looked at her sister with apology in her eyes. “Oh… I see.” Pinkie was clearly sad, her hair deflating. Then, as suddenly as it deflated, it puffed back out and she smiled, “I know! If we can’t settle out difference by this we can have a party and forget about it, right?” She noticed Octavia was putting her helmet on, “Okay, no party? Well then, let’s dance!” Pinkie said with a laugh as she fire the cannon one last time at Grandore, the multicolor projectile having a direct hit on Grandore and launched him back. Pinkie then lunged at her sister. Soon the two squads were fighting, Thunder Flash dashing at Archmane, only to bounce of a protective bubble. Vinyl was throwing what looked like records she used for her gig’s at Silverspeed, who shot each record, and Flim was approaching Grandore, who lay motionless on the ground. “Grandore is it?” Flim asked as he helped the white unicorn up. “It’s an honor to meet you, truly.” “Thanks, wait, your Flim right? Like from the Flim-Flam brothers?” He asked, the stallion nodded. “What happened to your brother?” “He joined your side. I supposed we should be fighting, So let us start fairly, right now.” Flim said planting his hooves in the ground and his horn began to glow as he thought up a spell. A bolt of energy soon shot the air at Grandore, who created a small shield to block it. Grandore responded with an offensive attack, his horn glowed green and he brought his head downwards, then brought it up abruptly, crystals shot out in a line towards the yellow tinted unicorn. The unicorn jumped to the right and avoided the crystals, only to have one shoot out and hit his chest, launching him into the air. Flim recovered while in the air and shot back a series of bolts. The bolts shot fast, landing around Grandore, one landing on his hind leg, just below his cutie mark, and it burned. “I have to finish the fast,” Grandore said to himself and with that he used what spells he could think up. Grandore focused hard, and soon used the air to send Flim flying into a tree, than used the tree to hold Flim still. “You stay.” Grandore said as he looked around to see his student in a protective bubble while Thunder Flash kept bouncing off of it. Grandore soon started to lose consciousness and before he past out, he let out one last air blast at Thunder Flash. ….. “You can’t hold out forever!” Thunder Flash yelled as he kept pounding Archmane’s shield. “But I can outlast you!” Archmane yelled back. No I can’t Archmane thought and right before his shield broke Thunder Flash went speeding off course, into a boulder. Archmane noticed that the blast came from his master, who was laying on the ground unconscious. He’ll be alright Archmane thought and galloped to were Thunder Flash had flew. “Okay, so you didn’t go into a boulder you went through a boulder.” Archmane said aloud as he approached the red Pegasus laying on the ground. Looking down at the pegasus he could tell that he was knocked out, until the pegasus dashed into his chest and launched him into the air. Archmane could only let out a grunt as he spiraled into the sky, and stopped himself with ice magic. Lowering himself to the ground he looked at the Pegasus above him. “I will outlast you Thunder Flash.” He said and his horn began to glow. A split second later a pillar of ice shot out of the ground and hit Thunder Flash, but didn’t launch him out of the sky, instead it froze him in place. “HURRY!” Archmane yelled to the other two ponies. “That pillar will signal the Unicorn mages to start the barrier!” With that he grabbed his master and dragged him behind the wards to where the rest of the squad waited. “Oh…Well that was a fun dance Tavi!” Pinkie said when the barrier went up and blocked her path. “I’ll see you again, I promise.”
Safe HavenChapter 7: Safe Haven It was early the next day when Grandore awoke. Not only did he wake, however, he woke with a start, for he had just woke from a horrific nightmare. The nightmare, ironically, was of him burning to death in a fire. “Where in all of Equestria am I!” he yelled. “Don’t worry, Captain, we’re in the hospital.” Octavia said. Grandore then noticed that his entire squad was there. They were out of their armor and were wearing what they naturally wore, Archmane was wearing his watch and a pair of glasses, Octavia wore her bowtie, and Silverspeed had her bow strapped to her back. “Well, not a hospital, the closest thing to a hospital near when you got hurt!” Silverspeed said, walking over to Grandore’s bed. “What do you mean, ‘closest thing to a hospital’!” Grandore yelled out of fear. Am I in an animal clinic? Or worse, A farm with a retired nurse or, or- “You’re checked into what is called the ‘Peace Corp.’” Archmane said from his position at the window. He glanced over at his master, who laid in the bed with bandages covering most of the burn left from Flim’s firebolt. “And who is it ran by?” Grandore asked as he looked between each of his squad members. He was soon answered by a very familiar voice. “Um, that would be me, Grandore, sir.” The yellow pony walked in with her pink mane covering her right eye. “I overheard you from the hall, and, um, I thought I’d stop by and say hi, um, if you don’t mind.” She said. “My name is-“ “Fluttershy, The pony who refuses to fight!” Grandore said, “Excuses me if I’m a tad small bit tipsy, Fluttershy, but your morphine is kicking in!” Grandore laid his head back on the pillow as his leg went numb. “Fluttershy, right? One of Twi and Rarity’s friends?” He asked her. “Oh yes, that would be me.” She said in her quiet, shy tone. “And what is this….Peace Corp?” Grandore asked as politely as he could. “It’s what I created to help anypony in this war that needs medical attention,” She said walking to his bedside, “and you’re the first patient!” She exclaimed her point and gave Grandore a smile as she turned to the rest of his squad. “He’ll be alright, the burn will go away in atleast a day,” She said cheerfully as she turned to leave the room. “Oh, say your good-byes, no visitors in the next hour,” She finished and closed the door. “So… was the mission successful?” Grandore asked curiously. “Or….Did we fail?” “Oh it was successful, I mean, we ARE in Ponyville after all.” Silverspeed said with enthusiasm. With a point of her hoof Grandore looked out the window to see a purple barrier going up infront of the morning sky. “We’ll be here until told otherwise, according to Celestia’s letter!” Silverspeed finished. “Well, I guess it’s time to get settled in.” Grandore said leaning back in his bed. “Squad Lightbringer, You are dismissed from this room, go enjoy a day off in Ponyville.”
A Day Off?Chapter 9: A Day Off? Grandore was released from the hospital a day after Squad Lightbringer had their skirmish with P.A.R.T.Y squad. He began to contemplate on where his squad would be found, starting with Archmane. “I wonder where that pony would be…” He began, “Let’s start with the University.” Grandore made his way through the town to the college he spent most of his life working at. “The University of Magical Defense, never thought I’d be back here again.” Grandore walked into the lobby of the large building to see all the students moving in hurry for their early classes. “Hey! Mr. Grandore!” Grandore looked to were the voice came from. He soon found a pink and blue unicorn moving over to him. “Mr. Grandore, I was wondering when you’d be back for the next magic sparring class! You know how much your students love that class!” She said with great happiness. “I’m not here to stay, Moon Glow.” Grandore stated to see the unicorn frown, “I’m only here to get Archmane, we’re late, have you seen him?” “Um. I think I saw him go to the library, check there!” She replied and began to move off to her class. “Great,” Grandore said as he moved through the hallways, passing students, then he opened the largest door in the stone hallway “the largest library in Ponyville.” He said as he stepped into the large library with aisle after aisle of bookcases filled with books on magic spells. “Archmane!” Grandore exclaimed as he finally found the brown unicorn infront of one of the bookcases. “Yes?” Archmane said, turning to his teacher, “What’s wrong?” “We need to go find Silverspeed and Octavia. We need to get moving back to Canterlot for debrief.” Grandore said as he started to drag Archmane through the aisles with haste. “Fine, fine, I’ll go get Silverspeed, you go get Octavia, she should be at the Café.” Archmane said and walked off in the opposite direction of Grandore, who hurried into Ponyville. Grandore finally found himself infront of Ponyville’s Café and found Octavia by herself. “Are you alright Octavia?” Grandore asked as he approached the pony, clearly hurried. “Yes, I’m just pony-watching. Why are you in such a rush?” She asked. “I’d think along the lines of ‘Why are we in such a rush’ come with me.” Grandore said and started to walk off with Octavia rushing to follow. The group soon met up infront of the town hall. “And from here we teleport, Archmane I need your help.” The two unicorns began to focus on their teleportation spell, with a flash of grey and green the squad found themselves infront of Celestia in the meeting room. “Welcome back, Squad Lightbringer. I see that your mission went well.” Celestia said, somewhat pleased. “Yes the mission went well, I was injured, but recovered soon after.” Grandore said. “I was informed. Well then, good on the mission, you are dismissed.” Celestia said and the squad made their way out of the door. “So I guess we still have a day off, except now we’re in Canterlot.” Grandore said as they left the castle and into Canterlot’s open streets.
The Sound of War.Chapter 10: The Sound of War. Squad Lightbringer was the first ponies to be woken the next day. The ponies found themselves woken by none other than Celestia at the door. “Awake, my faithful squad,” She began, “it is time.” “Time for what?” The squad asked in unison. Celestia, walked into the center of the room and looked slowly to each pony. “I fear that Shining Armor and Spitfire sent word this morning. Pegasus scouts have spotted NLR troops near the northern mountains. There is to be a skirmish in Wintergrass Valley at noon, and I want you there to support our side.” Celestia finished with clarity. “Yes! When do we set out?” Silverspeed said anxiously. “I’m guessing it’s soon.” Archmane said almost instantly. “Now?” Grandore responded, Celestia only nodded. “Great! Let’s get moving.” Grandore said, throwing on his cloak, the rest of the squad followed. Archmane thowing on his cloak, Silverspeed sliding into her archer uniform, and Octavia equipping her armor. “You will be settling in right at the camp’s landing sight. You should be met by Spitfire and Shining Armor.” Celestia announced and turned to leave the room, “Oh, your Chariot will be waiting outside. You leave in ten minutes.” With that, Celestia left the squad to pack their things. “Spitfire, like the leader of the Wonderbolts, right?” Silverspeed asked as she packed her bag and trotted over to the door. “Yes, that Spitfire.” Grandore and Archmane said at the same time and trotted over to the door with their bags. “Ready, Octavia?” Grandore asked as he looked back. Octavia nodded and with that they left Canterlot. …. P.A.R.T.Y squad had been travelling for days, shortly after Shade Star’s appearance. “Why are we following this guy?” Thunder Flash asked Vinyl, who looked at Pinkie. “Because, the letter said we’d be following him for his time in our squad!” Pinkie announced as she bounced forward. “Besides, why not? I mean, it’s all cool and all, and he’s an alicorn, so I mean, I couldn’t do much against him ‘cause he’s stronger than me!” Pinkie smiled in agreement at her comment. Shade Star only rolled his eyes and dismissed the comment. Shortly later he stopped at the end of a cliff. “Why are we stopping?” Flim asked, Shade Star pointed over the edge of the cliff, and the squad noticed it, the entire NLR army setting up a camp. “That’s why. We’re here for the first battle of this war.” He announced and trotted off into the camp, the rest of the squad moving to get ready. …. Squad Lightbringer found themselves landing in the camp shortly after they left. As soon as they stepped off the chariot they found themselves looking at a uniformed unicorn and pegasus. “It’s nice to see you again, Grandore” Shining Armor said, shaking hooves with Grandore, then nodding at Archmane, “You too, Archmane.” “So, how long until the battle starts?” Grandore asked. “We’re waiting for our scouts to return, we haven’t seen any sight of them from here.” Spitfire responded. They looked to the sky when they heard the sound of flapping wings. The pegasus scouting squad landed and one of the ponies spoke something to Spitfire, then trotted off with his squad. “Turns out, a small squad of five ponies just arrived from the south. The army has started moving, we will move to ready for the battle.” Spitfire said, then turned to Shining Armor, “I’ll have my archers move to flank the left.” She finished and trotted off. “I need to have a letter sent to Twi, she needs to know that the battle is starting. You four get ready, I want you on the front lines.” Shining Armor said, he turned and disappeared into a nearby tent. “Okay!” Grandore turned around, with a smile, to observe his squad. “I want us to stick close, I don’t want us splitting up,” Grandore pointed at Octavia, “You’ll be in front, you have the most armor, Archmane will surround us with a protective shield of ice so that archers will not be able to pick us off, Silverspeed, I want you to….honestly I don’t know, just follow my lead I guess.” Grandore stomped onto the ground, four small diamond daggers shot out of the ground and levitated around him. “Those are new, they look experimental.” Archmane said. He glanced over and saw the army moving, the squad fell into their position. “They are, I hope I don’t screw up.” Grandore said and trotted forward. The battle started an hour later when the squad heard the sound of arrows flying through the air, and the sound of battle cries. …. The two armies met in the center of Wintergrass Valley. They battle started off gruesome, Squad Lightbringer leading the charge, their ice shield taking ten arrows a minute. The NLR pushed, ponies roaring with moral. The squad’s shield shattered when a streak of lightning rammed into Archmane from above, separating him from the group. Octavia found herself fighting two Earth ponies with a sword in one’s mouth, and a pair of daggers strapped to the other’s hooves. Grandore found himself fighting a unicorn hidden under a cloak. Silverspeed flew into the air to start picking ponies off with her arrows. Archmane was lifted into the air by the pegasus that had crashed into him, Thunder Flash. “Let go of me!” Archmane yelled, landing a head-butt on the pegasus. Archmane began to fall when the pony let go of him, only to be caught again by Silverspeed. “You need to be more careful,” Silverspeed said, letting Archmane off onto the ground. Archmane only grumbled and brought his attention back to Thunder Flash. Octavia was becoming overwhelmed by the two ponies, when an arrow landed into the sword wielding pony’s head. She stared at the pony with horror as he fell to the ground. She quickly recovered and blocked the other pony’s attack and continued to fight him. The continued to go on for hours as the ponies pushed back and forth in hopes of winning.
No Choice.Chapter 11: No Choice. The battle went on for what seemed like days. Over time the two forces receded back into their camps in hope to rest. P.A.R.T.Y squad found their tent set up and waiting for them in the heart of the camp. The dark blue and purple tent stood out of the rest of tents with the squad’s insignia on it, Pinkie’s cutie mark, with the balloons colored white and black. “This place seems pretty cool.” Vinyl said when she entered the oversized tent. “I never slept in a tent before, this is sooooo cool!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed from her bed in the back of the tent. She proceeded to jump on her bed. “Let’s hurry up in settle in before that Shade Star pony shows up,” Thunder Flash began, “he gives me the creeps, and I should know creeps, I spent a night in the Everfree.” Thunder Flash stopped for a moment to recollect himself, “Or was that just yesterday? I really do not like that place.” He finished, jump onto his bed. Flim, already settled into his bed, smirked at Thunder Flash’s comment then lied back in the bed. The squad was soon sound asleep in their tent. ..... Shade Star walked into the commanding tent and, after making sure it was clear, he started up a telekinetic link. A hologram of Princess Luna appeared infront of him. “I see you’re moving along well with your magic.” She said. Shade only nodded. “Well, I see from these reports, the battle was undecided, shame, I was hoping we could have had a first victory.” “Did I not do as expected?” Shade asked, looking at the princess. Luna only nodded than preceded. “No, you did well not showing up in battle, we need you for the next battle, that will make us a definite win.” Luna let out a small laugh, “Go, rest my child, you have an important day tomorrow.” “Yes, mother.” Shade turned and left the tent, making his way back to his tent for a night sleep, for tomorrow he had no choice but to fight.
InjuriesChapter 11: Injuries. “Move out of the way, we have a severly injured!” the NLR medic pony yelled pushing Shade Star through the paths of the camp on a stretcher. “Move your flanks everypony, I need help here!” Multiple medics soon found their way to the incapacitated alicorn, soon moving him into the nearest empty tent. The medics set to work on the injured alicorn, who grunted in pain as they started to work a plan together. “Sorry sir, we don’t have anything to calm the pain, you’ll have to tough it out.” “What’s your name, stallion.” Shade Star ordered. “It’s Healing Hand, sir.” The stallion said as the medics came to the conclusion. “Sorry, sir, we can’t reattach the wing, you won’t be able to fly again.” He finish and went to stitching the wound. “Don’t be sorry, I was so headstrong to take them on at once.” Shade Star said and sat up after the medic finished. “Leave me, Healing Hand. You and the rest of you are dismissed.” With that, the medics left and Shade Star spent the rest of the night being debriefed by Princess Luna. ….. Archmane stumbled through the camp, holding up Grandore with his right foreleg. “Hold on, Grandore, we’re almost there.” Archmane quickly looked for Silverspeed, who wasn’t too far behind. “Silverspeed, Help me out!” With that she flew over and picked up Grandore’s other foreleg. “Captain, stay with us!” She said as they quickly rushed to the medics tent, were they quickly began patching up Grandore. After the medics had left, Archmane entered the tent to visit Grandore, followed by the rest of his squad. “Are you alright, Captain?” Silverspeed asked as they entered. “Hmm? Yea, nothing too serious, just a few broken ribs and some stitches. I’ll be out of here soon if I can get some good medical help. Sadly, this means we have to go back to Canterlot.” Grandore said with a sigh. “What’s so bad about that.” Archmane laughed as he propped himself on the bed, “Afraid to talk to Celestia face to face?” “Yes.” Grandore said then leaned back and staired at the ceiling of the tent. “I need some rest, You all are dismissed.” With that, Grandore went to sleep and the rest of the squad left to fulfill their duties in the camp.
Placement ManagementChapter 12: Placement Management. Squad Lightbringer left early in the morning to ensure safety back to Canterlot from any NLR archers. When they arrived they found their captain surrounded by medical staff, waiting to treat his wounds. After hours of vigorous treatment the Archmane and the rest of the squad finally was able to see Grandore. “Glad to see you okay.” Archmane said with a gruff tone as he entered the room. “Celestia sent you a letter and asked for you to read it aloud to the entire squad…in private.” He finished with tossing the letter to his mentor. “Why would she send a letter, and not tell me myself?” Grandore picked up the letter and read aloud. “To my faithful squad, Lightbringer. I am happy to announce the winning of Wintergrass Valley and to also inform you of our efforts in moving south to Appleloosa, in hopes to cut off the NLR’s food supplies. I am also happy to inform that your squad member, Archmane will be rewards the ‘Will of Iron’ metal for showing great courage in the battlefield, and to defeat an Alicorn. In addition to his medal I would be honored if he join Me, Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, and Spitfire as the new Unicorn Commander of the Solar Empire. I would also like to Congratulate you, Grandore. For I am promoting you to the rank of Unicorn Captain, in hopes that you can help us teach the Unicorns. And Finally, I am awarding you all with the “Valiant Shield” medal for leading us to this victory. The ceremony will be tomorrow at noon. Stand Strong, Squad Lightbring, Princess Celestia." The Squad stood silently as the news took effect on all of them. Almost as if on cue, they all turned and congratulated Archmane. They all announced that they would miss him and that it wouldn’t be the same in the squad, then they turned to Grandore. “Does this mean you’re leaving us too, Captain?” Silverspeed asked sadly. “I do not now, Silverspeed, I don’t know. She wants me to train the unicorns and lead this squad. I will try my best to balance both.” He answered. “However, it is wonderful to see that we all receive and medal also. We can’t have Archmane taking all the glory.” They laughed at the joke their captain had made and wondered how the ceremony will go. “You are dismissed, Squad Lightbringer. And you Archmane, this will be your last dismissing you’ll receive from me for a long, long time.” With that, the squad left the room at the original Squad Lightbringer.
Royal CeremonyChapter 13: Royal Ceremony. The day was early, ponies from all over the Solar Empire gathered for the ceremony they heard about. Princess Celestia stood upon the stage, the four pony squad standing behind her. Once everypony had gathered Celestia began the ceremony. “Thank you for showing up everypony, this ceremony if very important for today we label our Unicorn Commander.” Turning to Archmane, Celestia levitated a folded up cape and a medal shaped like to fist crossing eachother. “Archmane, I award you with the ‘Will of Iron’ medal for showing courage on the battle field. I also award you with this,” pulling out the cape to show everypony, the cape was gold with white trim, a picture of two crossed glowing unicorn horns on the side. “I am honored to call you our new Unicorn Commander.” With that, Archmane knelt and went on to give the rest of the squad the ‘Valiant Shield’ medal, then she stopped at Grandore. “Grandore, I am honored to give you a promotion too. For today Grandore, you are now ‘Unicorn Captain’ and the new teacher of our Unicorn recruits. And still the leader of Squad Lightbringer.” “Thank you, Celestia, and I have something for Archmane.” Grandore walked to the front of the stage and turned to Archmane. “My Apprentice, I have a medal for you too.” Grandore pulled out a medal that looked like a solar eclipse, “This is the medal that only people who have fulfilled their role in Squad Lightbringer earn, this is the Lightbringer insignia.” Grandore pinned the medal on Archmane and smiled, with that the remaining ponies who were watching the ceremony had dispersed and, after saying their goodbyes, Lightbringer had left too, leaving only Celestia and Archmane. “I’m going to miss them.” Archmane said as he watched his squad walk away. “I would hope not, they will be at a good majority of your Operations.” Celestia looked at Archmane and smiled. “Now go on, there’s a Chariot waiting for you, go get ready and go. Shining Armor and Spitfire are going to need you there soon.” “Okay, your majesty.” With that Archmane walked off from where Celestia stood.
Not so funny, now is it?Chapter 3: Not so funny, Now is it? It was shortly after the sun went down and the moon rose into the sky, stars littering the blackness of the night’s sky. That’s when Thunder Flash noticed the lights eradiating from Ponyville Square. Curious he flew down to see what was happening. Landing amongst the crowds of ponies he watched as Princess Luna stepped up in front of the crowd. “Hello everypony,” she began, “I would like to thank you all for showing up, and I would like to inform you of something,” she looked around the crowd, “but my sister already told you all that she and I are at war. I’m not going to tell you this big story, or try to exaggerate the truth. I will tell you, however, that it is time for a new leader in Equestria, and is not going to include Celestia.” She finished with such sureness in her voice. “Upon my say of the NLR I will ask you all one thing. Will you join me?” She finished her speech and everypony in the crowd was quiet. This continued on for moments until a familiar voice from earlier broke the silence. “I will.” The figure floated over to the princess and turned around, revealing herself as Rainbow Dash. “I guess I should, I mean why not?” The happy voice said as the Pink pony walked up showing herself as Pinkie Pie. That’s when Thunder Flash noticed, this was all real. And Luna was right, there needs to be a new leader of Equestria, and it’s going to be him. “I will.” The pegasus said and flew over to Luna landing next to her, followed by a hundred others. “Good,” The princess began, “and time is of the essence so I will begin with your roles.” ….. “I can’t believe that pegasus!” Grandore began, marching down corridors. On his way to his old tower in Canterlot, followed by Archmane. “First he laughs in Celestia’s face, then turns on her! Who does he think he is!” Grandore exclaimed, grabbing the nearest thing, which was a chair to the table of one of the outdoor cafés, and threw it at the café’s wall, breaking the chair in multiple places. Sighing, he took some bits and slid it through the door’s mail slot, and continued walking. “Oh, that’s the funniest thing I ever heard, ha-ha,” Grandore said, making a horrible impression of the pegasus as they found the tower’s door and began going up the steps. “I mean seriously, Archmane, who does he think he is!? “He’s a colt in the time of war.” Archmane said, closing his eyes as they made their way up the stairs, “and this war is a horrible time for a colt. This will be when brothers fight brothers, husbands against wives, father against son, mother against daughter.” The grim sounding in Archmane’s voice was like a blizzard, cold and harsh. “I want this war to end as soon as possible, too.” He finished as they reached the top of the tower and Grandore opened the door, revealing large room with one large window, multiple bookshelves, a desk with quill, parchment, and ink, and a bunk bed. “Well this is new,” Grandore said looking at the bunk bed. “I guess Celestia had this put in when we arrived, take whatever bunk you want, I might not be getting much sleep anyways.” Grandore walked over to the desk, using his telekinesis to move the chair out, he sat down and levitated the quill, began writing. “The first thing you do when we get back to you home town, write? Are you serious?” Archmane said, walking up to the desk, then sliding to the side, he looked through the window. “The window opens onto a balcony.” Grandore mentioned with ease as he wrote. Levitating a book over to him every ten or twenty minutes. Archmane walked out onto the balcony and stared out over Canterlot, he continued to stare over the city when a knock came to the door. “Come in!” Grandore said like he had said it for a thousand years, and Twilight walked in. “Grandore?” Twilight asked and Grandore put down the quill and stood, turning to the lavender pony. “Twilight, is something wrong?” Grandore said, noticing the sadness in her face, Archmane refusing to turn grunted and looked at her. “You hate this war already, Twilight.” He said, revealing no emotion. “That, and you never told Spike you were leaving.” “Yes, I hate this war, Yes, I forgot to tell Spike I was leaving. I just wish this war was over and I didn’t have to fight against my friends.” She said, “knowing Spike, he’ll find his way here, or Celestia will teleport him.” “Well, I could do it for you, if you want?” Grandore said, his horn already glowing, anticipating her response. With a flash of green Spike stood in the room with them. “Twilight! What’s going on? Why weren’t you home?” Spike was ready to ask Twilight a million questions. “Spike, Celestia and Luna are at war. And we joined Celestia. This is Grandore and Archmane.” She motioned to the Unicorns and then Spike looked at her. “We? But that doesn’t make sense! I saw Applejack and Pinkie Pie earlier and Rainbow was clearing the skies while Fluttershy was helping a cat that was stuck in a tree!” Spike said. “Rarity and I joined. We just found out that Pinkie and Rainbowdash joined Princess Luna.” She said, the pain clearly showing. Spike just sighed and stood there. “Where are you staying Twilight?” Grandore said looking at her, “are you staying at your old place? That large library of yours?” “Yes, actually I am, I think we should be going.” She said, motioning for spike to follow her. “Goodnight Grandore, and good luck with your squad, we all could us a little light in these dark, dark days.” Grandore closed the door behind her and then looked to Archmane, who had turned around and was leaning against the frame of the window, looking at Grandore. “Did I ever tell you how you have the ability to shapeshift, or see possible the future?” Grandore said, sitting on the bottom bunk of the beds. Archmane only shook his head. “You can do those things because your family is a long line of Alicorns. Not related to Celestia, but were very important of the old Royal Courts. I used to work with them, we were good friends, now that I think of it.” He said, Archmane looked on curiously, as he always did when his parents were brought up. “You can’t see this because its blocked, not physically, but magically, in your mind. You parent’s didn’t want you to find out until I thought it was time, so I told you.” He finished, waiting for a response. “Why don’t I look like one then?” Archmane said. “Because, unlike Celestia’s family, the alicorns in your family weren’t original, somewhere in your family tree are two ponies, one was once the wisest of unicorns, Starseeker. The other was the ultimate pegasi, Wind Weaver. These two ponies were phenomenal ponies, but their children, all three, were Alicorns. One went on to travel the worlds beyond this one, she was named Galaxy Walker. She disappeared, and has not reappeared. The other, went on to travel into this one, to find out its secrets. He was named Ground Shaker. He died in a massive cave in somewhere far from here. The final one though, went on to live with a family. His children had children, but they weren’t alicorns. He was named Time Watcher. For he looked into the future, and found out that the alicorn gene skips a generation. He also came to the conclusion that those who didn’t receive the alicorn appearance, gained some form of strength from alicorn nature, all including the height. Some had speed, others strength, and in your case, the powerful magic.” Grandore let the story sink in and then looked at Archmane, “Get some sleep, we need to be up early to observe the trainings.” Grandore walked to the desk and went to writing while Archmane laid on the bed and went to sleep.
First AssignmentsChapter 5: First Assignments. It was late when Thunder Flash was called into meeting. He walked in to find his squad waiting for him. Pinkie Pie was waiting eagerly, two other ponies with her, both were Unicorns. Luna stepped out from the shadows and greeted all of the ponies with a smile as they bowed. “Please stand, I wish to have you all greeted and ready to move by dawn.” Luna said and motioned for them to stand. “P.A.R.T.Y squad, you consist of,” She began by pointing to Pinkie and continued on, “Pinkie Pie, Vinyl Scratch, Flim, and Thunder Flash.” Thunder Flash looked at the white pony with the mixture of blue mane, and the yellow stallion with a red and white mane. They went on to greet each other and turned to Luna when she cleared her throat. “Your first assignment,” she motion to the map on the wall behind them, putting her hoof on the circle with the label ‘Ponyville’, “Is to set a perimeter around Ponyville. Everything that goes in or comes out must be recorded.” With that the squad was dismissed, and they soon later were leaving the camp in the Everfree, wearing armors of different types. Pinkie was wearing a light cloth-like armor, metal protecting her chest, and back. Thunder Flash was wearing light metal, same of what Luna’s Pegasus guard wore, the metal was red and the trim was blue. Vinyl scratch and Flim, however, refused to wear armor. They continued on through the Everfree and made a camp at the boarder of Ponyville. ….. “Get set, We’re moving!” Grandore said as he slammed the door open. “Celestia gave us our first mission.” He said as he threw on his new cloak, a white silk cloak with gold trim and the emblem of The Solar Empire on it. “What, already?” Archmane said, sitting up looking at his mentor. He soon found himself throwing his Solar Empire cloak on too. “We just got together, and we’re being sent out?” “It’s about time! I was getting bored up in this tower!” Silverspeed said, putting on her light Pegasus armor. “What’s the assignment?” Octavia said, walking up to Grandore, already wearing her armor, her weapons and a bag were strapped to her back. “Celestia is sending us to Ponyville, we are to set up a series of wards around the perimeter so the mages can build a protective bubble around Ponyville, like they’ve done here.” He said, pointing out the window. When the ponies looked out the window they noticed that the sky was yellow, and soon noticed that it was a shield, not the sky itself. “We are to move immediately.” Grandore said as he walked out the door, the ponies following him. They found themselves flying out of Canterlot on a chariot.
A New Member.Chapter 8: A New Member. It was near dusk when the courier arrived at the camp were Thunder Flash’s squad was staying. The courier landed and gave Pinkie a letter and left in a hurry. “Oh boy! Another pony is coming to our squad! I need to hurry and set up a party for him!” Pinkie hurried to set up for the stranger pony, using her party cannon to set up various supplies for the party. “I like parties as much as the next pony,” Vinyl Scratch began, “but really? One for just the simplest of things?” She looked to the nearest pony to back her up, ironically Thunder Flash was flying close by. “Thunder! Back me up on this?” She motioned to Pinkie. “I don’t mind, I mean a party is a party right?” Thunder Flash looked at Pinkie, then was confused when she pulled a tray of cupcakes from her mane. “How did you..?” he began, “Where did you get the cupcakes?” “I always carry supplies for an emergency party with me!” Pinkie exclaimed with joy as she continued. “Sorry Vinyl, no help here” Thunder Flash shrugged and continued to fly around the forest. “Okay…No help, atleast tell us why this pony is sooo important.” Vinyl demanded from her perch in the tree. “Well, duh, He’s the second in command of the NLR and he’s an Alicorn!” Pinkie exclaimed. “His name is Shade Star!” “What!? An Alicorn!” Vinyl became a bit more tense and worried. Flim was automatically interested in the conversation, and Thunder Flash stopped flying to listen in. “Yea! That’s why I’m in such a hurry!” Pinkie then sped up. ….. It was around midnight when he arrived. The Alicorn stepped from the darkness into the moonlight to reveal his features. He looked like a typical Alicorn, wings and a horn. His coat was dark grey, and his mane and tail was black and white. He scanned over the squad infront of him with his black eyes. He then was struck with a wave of confusion when he noticed that there was a scene for a party infront of him. “Don’t worry, she had it all with her apparently.” Vinyl said from the tree branch. Shade continued to look at Pinkie in confusion. “What’s the matter Shade Star, Gummy got your tongue?” Thunder Flash said from the air next to Vinyl Scratch. Thunder Flash continued to hoof bump Vinyl Scratch then laughed. “Come here.” Shade Star commanded Thunder Flash, his voice sounding like that of a gust of wind. Thunder Flash glided over to Shade Star. “Closer.” Thunder Flash lowered himself a bit closer. “Closer….” Shade Star reared onto his hind legs as Thunder Flash got close enough. “No don’t you EVER talk to us like that!” Shade Star said as he hit Thunder Flash in the back of the head with his hoof. Thunder Flash grunted in pain as he fell to the forest floor. “Now. It’s time for the real reason I’m here.” Shade Star finished.
A Battle for the Books.Chapter 12: A Battle for the Books. The second battle woke at dawn in Wintergrass Valley. The two armies lined each side of the valley, then with no warning, charged at each other. The only difference in this morning was that, without a doubt, Shade Star was leading the NLR into battle, wings spread and horn pointed in front of him. Most of the Solar Empire stopped in fear, except for Squad Lightbringer, who continued to charge out of shock. “Archmane, We have you with us, no worries.” Grandore whispered when the rest of the army froze. The two squads clashed, and almost instantly, Grandore and Archmane released a spell creating a magical barrier around them. “It’s a one way barrier,” Grandore had stated years ago when he first taught it to Archmane, “anypony can leave, except for the casters, but once left they can’t re-enter.” Archmane preceded to launch offensive attacks at Thunder Flash, not to let him get close. Pinkie went to fighting Octavia with Flim at her side, Silverspeed shot bolts as fast as she could at Vinyl. Grandore jumped at Shade, launching crystals out of the ground all around Shade, only to be dodged. Shade jumped into the air and twirled, launching a flurry of feathers outwards hitting Grandore along the side and chest. Then, smiling, he released what looked like a wolf of darkness out of his horn which knocked Grandore to the ground, then slid him across the dirt to Archmane’s hooves. “No…” Archmane looked at his teacher, anger covering his face, “No!” Archmane roared, sending frost out through the bubble, launching everypony out except for him, Grandore, and Shade Star. “You…You killed him!” Archmane’s eyes went from black to the light blue color of ice, ice forming armor around his body and wings of ice sprouting from his back, “Now…Now I will kill you!” With that Archmane dashed across the ground at an insane speed, hitting Shade in the chest and knocking him back. Archmane brought his head back and rolled it, ice being formed in the air. He pointed his horn at Shade Star and released the spell, launching a long, dragon shaped ice mass at Shade, who threw constant dark wolves at it. When the dragon hit Shade it knocked him to the ground, when he went to get up he found Archmane holding him down. Archmane then grabbed Shade’s right wing with his mouth and pulled as hard as he could, multiple pops and rips sounded as Shade’s wing slowly peeled off his body as he screamed out in pain. “Arch…mane?” Grandore stood, his white coat covered in crimson. Archmane turned normal and teleported to Grandore. After grabbing him he teleported the two of them to the camp along with the rest of the squad, where they spent the rest of the day.
A Surprising PromotionChapter 14: A Surprising Promotion. Thunderflash woke in his tent to see not only Shade Star staring at him, but the Princess of the Night herself staring at him. “Princess!” Thunderflash yelped as he fell out of bed and scrambled around until he regained his composure. “Um, huh. What are you doing here Princess?” Thunderflash questioned as Luna stared at the young pegasi, laughing in her mind. “I am here to inform you that you are being put under a new command. And will no long be a part of P.A.R.T.Y squad.” Luna began, “You will be working with two other pegasi.” “…Okay, who?” Thunderflash asked quickly, wondering why he was being moved from his squad. “You are being put into a 3 pegasi scouting squad, involving you, and our two best flyers. Flight Marshal Rainbow Dash, and Lieutenant Cloud Dasher. You and Cloud Dasher will be working under Rainbow Dash’s command as long you two remain in this squad.” Luna stated. “Okay, is that all Princess? I need to sleep if I’m going to be scouting all night and day.” Thunderflash asked. “Not yet, you must report to your new tent, follow these directions” Luna said, handing Thunderflash a map and then stating, “You start tonight, good luck” Luna said, then leaving with Shade Star following close behind. Thunderflash left, and soon found his new tent. A tent black and purple, with a rainbow colored lightning bolt above the door, after meeting Rainbow Dash, he noticed it was her cutie mark. Then Thunderflash met Cloud Dasher, a white coated pony with an orange and red mane and tail. “Nice to meet both of you and all, but I need some shut eye if I’m flying tonight.” Thunderflash stated, finding the nearest empty bed and flopping down into it, now later than a minute he was asleep.
