A Future in Peril

by Dusk Cloud

Rating: teen
Tags: Adventure, Tragedy
Length: 10029

Discord is gone forever. So Equestria is safe...right?

Love and peace has spread throughout Equestria. The ponies of Ponyville are joyously preparing for a wedding, until an old foe returns to take what he desires. Will they be able to stand up against the evil that has besieged their home, or will they watch everything they love be destroyed?

Sequal to Ghosts of the Past (formally Return of Discord). Rate and Comment!

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-02-03 08:09:21 UTC

Living the Dream

The sun bathed the sky in a soft,golden light, as it gracefully rose over the horizon.  Its gentle rays shined through the window of a small house made of clouds.  Wonderbolts posters were hung haphazardly on the cyan walls.  Weights and Daring Doo books were scattered across the floor.  Two ponies were lying in a soft bed that sat against the far wall of the room. The sun's rays calmly crept over Rainbow Dash's face.  She opened her eyes lazily.  She jumped down to the soft floor, careful not to wake up Crimson Dusk.  She stretched her muscles, as she yawned quietly.  That was the best night ever, she thought to herself as she walked out of the room.

She clumsily bumped into a small table in the hall, knocking over a cheap looking vase.  "Dang," she said in a careless tone.  She had grown larger over the years, but still hadn't gotten used to it.  In fact, Dash and her friends grew a lot.  They were all the same size as Celestia, and it was unheard of for normal ponies to grow as large as alicorns.  Twilight researched what could have caused the mysterious growth spurt, and found that their connection to the elements of harmony was the cause.  She told them that the elements affected not only their spirits, but their bodies as well.

Dash remembered the reaction Dusk had when he saw how big she was.  It made it a lot easier to handle him, she thought, while laughing silently to herself.

She made her way to the kitchen.  It was smaller than Dash would have liked, but it did what it was supposed to do.  She turned on the coffee maker that waited for her on the counter.  It hummed to life, as it began to brew her favorite coffee.  She stared out the window, and admired the gorgeous view of the morning sky.  She heard Dusk coming down the stairs.  He yawned superfluously as he leisurely joined her in the kitchen.  She turned to her lover and kissed him good morning.  "Hey," she said sleepily, "Sleep well?"

Dusk yawned before he replied.  "I don't think I got the chance to.  You kept me up all night."  She playfully punched him in the side after he mentioned last night.  He chortled at the impact.  "Still the only way you can show affection?" he said jokingly.  "You did enough of that last night too."

She just stuck her tongue out at him.  He laughed at her childish reaction.  Dash resumed staring out the window, as Dusk sat on the chair in front her.  "It's hard to believe we've been together for four years," she said while deep in thought.  "It feels like it's just a dream."

Dusk nodded in agreement.  "If it is, I don't want to wake up," he said affectionately.  Dash shook her head and smiled at the comment.  She continued to stare oblviously out the window.  "Something on your mind?" Dusk asked.

She averted her gaze from the window to her crimson lover.  "It's just...I've been thinking about Pinkie Pie," Dash replied solemnly.  "I thought she would be back to normal by now."

Dusk laughed at her statement.  "Did you just call Pinkie Pie...normal?" he asked.  "That's not a word I'd use to describe her.  Abnormal is more like it"

Rainbow Dash chuckled quietly.  "I mean her working at the hospital," she replied.  "Lately, she's been working long hours, and hasn't been at parties or celebrating like she used to.  It's not like her."

Dusk got up and walked over to the cyan pegusus.  He leaned in close, and wrapped his foreleg gently around her neck.  "I think it's about what happened to Twilight," he stated.  "Remember how helpless she felt while holding Twilight? How she couldn't do anything to stop her from almost dying?  She must be working hard at being a nurse, so that never happens again.  I don't think she has forgiven herself yet, but she'll come around."  He gave her a reassuring peck on the cheek before gently whispering in her ear, "Plus, what better way to make ponies smile than saving their lives?  I can't think of anypony better suited for the job."

Dash smiled softly at Crimson Dusk.  "You always know what to say to make me feel better," she said admiringly.

"Yeah, I do," he said overconfidently.  He tried to take her mind off of Pinkie Pie by changing the subject.  "I still can't believe AJ and Rarity are going out.  How long has it been? Two months?"

"Barely," Rainbow Dash replied.  "I always thought they would end up together."

Dusk slowly stroked her beautiful mane.  "How so?" he asked trying to comfort her.

"Haven't you noticed how they looked at each other?" she asked.  "Those two had feelings for one another ever since they met.  I think they were just to afraid too admit it."

Dusk let out an amused grunt.  "I believe you.  I think the whole almost burning alive thing helped out too."

The coffee maker made an obnoxious ringing sound behind them.  Dash freed herself from Dusk's embrace, and poured herself a cup of coffee.  She drank the bitter liquid slowly; savoring the taste in her mouth.  She sat back down, and placed the coffee cup on the table.  Her eyes intently watched the dark liquid ripple inside the mug.  They sat in silence for a few minutes.  They could hear the morning birds singing a melodious tune somewhere outside.  Dusk waited patiently for Dash to talk to him.  "Fluttershy and Twilight seem to be doing alright," she finally said.

"Yeah," Dusk replied.  "They've just been doing what they love.  Twilight's been working on the library, and Fluttershy has been taking excellent care of the animals."  Dash was still absent mindedly watching her coffee dance in the white cup, oblivious to what he was saying.  Dusk could see that something was still on his lover's mind.  "Okay," he said calmly.  "What is really going on her?.  You're not acting like yourself."

Dash snapped out of her daze, and looked at Dusk.  Her eyes were glistening with withheld tears.  She stared at him for a few brief moments, before breaking down.  "It's us," she said with a shakey voice.  Dusk looked quizzically at Dash, but let her continue.  "I've never been in love with anypony like I am with you.  Everytime I wake up with you beside me, I get the feeling that I'm always safe.  When we fly together, I feel like I can take on the world."

Dusk gently wiped the tears from her eyes.  "What are you getting at?" he asked soothingly.

"I'm saying I love you, but I don't know where to go from here," she said sadly.

"Where is this coming from?" Dusk asked concerned.

Dash looked bashfully at the ground.  "When ever you're around, I have a hard time controlling my emotions.  It got worse the night after we beat Discord."

"You mean when I threw you on the bed, and we went at it like rabbits?" Dusk chimed in.  "You wanted me to."

"I did, and it was the best night of my life.  You were my first," Dash looked straight into Dusk's dark red eyes.  "I wanted you to be my only."

"And I will.  You were my first too, and I never want to change that," Dusk said trying to sooth his beloved.

Dash smiled.  "Then all those dates we went on.  Surfing the waves during that hurricane...those nights we cuddled by the fire...even the Wonderbolt Derby."

"You mean the one they let you race them in?" Dusk said.  "The one you beat all of them without breaking a sweat?"

Dash nodded.  "That was one of the best momenst of my life.  Did you know they offered me a spot on the team after that?"  Dusk shook his head.  "Well, I declined it.  Being a Wonderbolt has always been my biggest dream, but when they told me what I would have to do...I wasn't sure."

Now Dusk was the one confused.  "Why? It's your dream.  You should take it."

"Because it would mean I wouldn't get to see you.  I would be all over the world training and doing stunts, and I wouldn't have any time for you," she said starting to cry again.

"I would have went to all of them.  I'm a prince...I can basically do anyting," Dusk replied.

"It's just...your immortal, and I'm not.  I want to spend every second with you, because I don't know how much time I have to do it," Dash sobbed.

"Oh, now I see what's really wrong," Dusk said.

'I love you with all my heart," Dash said truthfully.  "Enough to give up my dream of being a Wonderbolt.   Enought to make you my new dream.  I don't know what to do from here.  I'm so confused.  I'm sorry.  I must look weak to you right now."

Dusk gave her a warm smile.  "You aren't weak.  I've got the bruises to prove it," he said trying to lighten the mood.  Dash silently cried from the other side of the table, not paying attention to his jest.  "You know what?  I've got something for you," Dusk said getting up from the table.  He trotted over to a small cabinet in the corner of the kitchen.  He opened it, and pulled out a black box with golden decorations running across it.

He carefully placed it in front of Dash.  She looked at the box confusedly,and then looked at Dusk with the same expression.  "What is it?" she said curiously.

"Open it and find out," was his response.  Dash opened the box.  Her face betrayed the bewilderment she felt inside.  She picked up a clear bladed saber with a golden hilt.  It felt lighter than air.  "If you think it looks awesome now, put it in the light," Dusk suggested.  Dash took it to the window, and placed it in the warm light of the sun.  A spectrum of colors danced around the white blade, creating a brilliant display of beauty.

Dash felt the sadness and confusion fade away in her mind.  "This is for me?" she asked still awestruck at the gift.

"I thought that since you've been doing great at the sword lessons I've been giving you," Dusk said proudly, "that you should have your own blade that matched your beauty.  It's called Cloud Cutter.  I had the greatest blacksmiths in Equestria forge it from the finest diamonds we could find.  I also had the Circle of Magi enchant it.  It will never become dull, and they even added the rainbow effect. "

Dash could feel the tears forming in her eyes again, but these were tears of joy.  "Thanks," she said with a sniffle.

Dusk looked up at the ceiling, as he thought quietly to himself.  "You don't like rings, right?" he asked.

"No?" Dash said having no idea where this was going.

"I've got an idea," he said.  "Can I see your sword?"  Dash handed him Cloud Cutter.  He carefully took it in his hooves, and knelt in front of the rainbow-maned pegusus.  "Rainbow Dash," he stated proudly as he presented her the sword, "  I love you more than the world itself.  Will you marry me?"

Dash was taken aback by his request.  Her mouth hung open in shock.  She could feel her heart pumping fiercely in her chest.  Her mind was completely baffled.  Her heart forced her to say what her mind couldn't.  "YES!" she said taking the sword.  She dropped it on the fluffy ground, and embraced Dusk.  Her warm lips met his in a fiery display of passion.  Dash broke off the embrace.  She placed Cloud Cutter in its jeweled scabbard and flung it on her back.  Unable to keep the bounce out of her step, she hurried to the door.  "I'm going to Sugarcube Corner to tell my friends," she said with joy in her voice.  "I think I'm going to ask them to help out.  They were amazing at Cadence's wedding a few years ago."

Dusk laughed jovially at her.  "You do what you want," he yelled back.  "I'm going to tell Celestia and Luna.  They'll be overjoyed at the news.

Dash leapt out of the door as fast as lightning.  She soared high in the sky, feeling nothing but happiness in her heart.  She set course for Sugarcube Corner.  "I'm getting married!" she screamed to the heavens as Ponyville came into view, "I'm living the dream!"

Sharing the News

Twilight and her friends sat around a large table in the center of the bakery.  The freshly baked cupcakes in the middle of the table filled the room with a sweet aroma.  "It was nice of Mrs. Cake to close early today, so we could have a private get together.  It makes it hard to have a good time when everypony is staring at you," Twilight said kindly.

"I know how you feel," Rarity added.  "It is like they never seen alicorn sized ponies before."  The others laughed happily at Rarity's jest.

"Could you thank her the next time you see her for me, Pinkie?" asked Twilight.

"Sure Twilight.  I'd be glad to tell her," she said sweetly.

"Have you been getting enough sleep dear?" Rarity asked noticing the black circles around the bubbly pony's eyes.

"Not really," Pinkie replied bashfully.

"Pinkie," Twilight began.  "You don't have to work so long at the hospital.  I don't blame you for what happened."

Pinkie lowered her head.  She spoke in a voice that was both sad and tired.  "I can't let that happen again.  I won't let anypony suffer."  Pinkie raised her head up high and looked at Twilight as she said, "I'm going to work hard at this, so I can help all the suffering ponies."  The others smiled at her determination.

"You always did love to make all us ponies smile sugar cube," said Applejack.  "Just please get some rest.  You could even throw us a party.  We sure do miss a good ol' fashion Pinkie Pie party."  Fluttershy and Twilight nodded in agreement.

Pinkie smiled at the ponies.  "Alright, I'll find a reason to throw a party for you gals," she said happily.  "Then, I'll take a long nap."

Twilight chuckled.  "I...think you should reverse the order."

"Right," Pinkie said rubbing the back of her mane.

"Sounds wonderful Pinkie," Fluttershy said.  "Applejack, How is your poor, little pig?"

"She's never been better.  Thanks for comin over and helpin out," Applejack said appreciatively.  "I never would have thought that she hated the food she was eatin."

Rarity moved closer to Applejack, and wrapped her in a loving embrace.  Applejakck turned her head, only to receive a gentle kiss from the white unicorn.  "What brought this on?" Applejack asked.

"The sound of your voice makes me go crazy," replied Rarity.  Applejack smiled and gave her another peck on the cheek.

"Come on guys.  Can't you go five minutes without climbing all over each other?" Twiliight said jokingly.  Rairty and Applejack laughed at their purple friend.

"I can't help it," Rarity said.  "I just love her."

"You've been going out for two months.  Are you sure it's that serious," Fluttershy embarrassedly asked.

"It's been two great ones," Applejack said.  She gave Rarity a knowing smile.  Rarity returned it with a wink.

"How's the library doing?" Rarity asked Twilight.

Twilight smiled.  "I've ordered some new books on the history of Equestira.  They are said to be written by Starswirl the Bearded himself!"  She may have been fooling everypony else, but Rarity could sense the sadness in Twilight's heart.

"Are you feeling alright?" asked the ever concerned Rarity.

"I'm fine.  Why do you ask?" Twilight replied.

Rarity looked sympathetically to Applejack, then back to Twilight.  "Well.  Since Spike had that...accident, you haven't been yourself.  It's surprising that you even came to this little get together."

Twilight's expression darkened.  "He was a brave, little dragon.  The way he shoved me out of that Gulon's* way."  Tears trickled from her eyes.  "Yet with all my magical ability, I couldn't save him.  That creature tore him apart before I had a chance to react."

"I'm sorry for bringing it up, but we all have been worried about you," said Rarity.

"Spike wouldn't want you to be like this," Fluttershy added.  "He's in a better place now."

Twilight gave her a brief smile.  "I know he wouldn't, but it's still hard."  She reached for one of the cupcakes that Mrs. Cake had left for them, and took a small bite.

"What were you looking for?" Rarity asked.

Twilight thought for a moment.  "We were searching for a special object for Princess Celestia.  I can't really say anymore."

The door swung open violently, and (to the relief of Twilight) ended the subject.  The five surprised ponies turned to face a winded Rainbow Dash.  "What in tarnation are yah doin?" Applejack asked.

Rainbow Dash trotted over to the table.  She wore the biggest smile on her face.  "You guys won't believe it," she said excitedly.  "Crimson Dusk asked me to marry him!" Her friends gasped, then squealled with joy.

"That's amazing!" Twilight exclaimed.  "I'm so happy for you both!"

"Thanks," replied Dash, "but that isn't all."

"There's more?" Rarity said bewildered.

Dash nodded her head.  "He said that you guys could help with the wedding like you did for Cadence's.  With you all running the show, I know it will be twenty percent cooler"

The five ponies squealed even louder.  "I'll get right to work on your dress," Rarity said with designs swimming sporadically through her mind.  "I'm thinking velvet...wait, silk.  Silk and emeralds...."  Her voice trailed off, as did her mind.

"I think I found the excuse to throw a PARTY!" Pinkie shouted.  The others busily chatted about their ideas, when the door swung open again.

"You should really cut the noise down, or else some random pony might spread the news," Dusk said walking in.  He was accompanied by Celestia and Luna.

"Princess Celestia!" Twilight exclaimed as they all bowed at the royal alicorns.

"I told you that you don't have to bow at me my prized pupil," Celestia said affectionately.

"Sorry," Twilight said apologetically.  "Old habits."

Luna trotted over regally to Dash.  "My brother speaks highly of you.  Is thou really the one that pulled off the fabled sonic rainboom?"

Rainbow Dash raised her head proudly.  "Yeah, that's me," she said rubbing her hoof against her chest.  "I'm probably one of the greatest ponies around."

"Greatest braggart is more like it," Rarity snickered.  Rainbow gave her a threatening look.

Dusk trotted over to his bride-to-be, and stood next to her.  "She's the greatest mare anypony could ask for," he said.

"If that's the case, why did she choose you?"  Celestia joked.

Dusk grinned at his sister's attempt to tease him.  "I don't think we have the time to list off all the reasons."  Celestia and Luna giggled at his reply.

"Are you going to marry us?" Rainbow Dash asked Celestia.

"Of course," she replied.  "It would be my pleasure to marry my brother to a beautiful pegusus."  Dash blushed at the comment.  "Plus, Luna has a surprise for you both."

"I've decided to create a new constellation in the night sky," Luna said.  "I think thy visages would be perfect.  T'will be my greatest masterpiece yet."

'My face will be in...in the sky?" Dash stuttered.  "That's so awesome!  Thank you Luna!"

"T'is my pleasure," she said with a hint of pride in her voice.  "I'll see to it they are the brightest stars in the sky on your wedding night."

"So, Celestia..." Twilight began before being cut off by somepony shouting outside.

"Help!  For the love of Celestia, help me!" somepony cried in terror.  The nine ponies hurriedly ran out the door.  There was a crowd gathered around the town square.  Everypony looked as if somepony had been murdered.

"Everypony please step back," Celestia ordered.  "Can anypony tell me what happened?

A blue and white pony pointed at the fallen earth pony on the street.  "He just came into town screaming and yelling about some sort of attack."  Cuts and burns covered his yellow coat..  His unkempt, hazel mane was covered by a strip of leather that could have been a hat at one time.  His feral, green eyes darted around wildly.

"Braeburn?" Applejack said running to her cousin.  She kneeled down, and cradled his head lovingly in her hooves.  "Braeburn!  What happened?"

He looked at her as if she was a stranger.  She could see the fear in his eyes.  "Applejack?" he said with a shakey voice.  "Applelossa is...gone" He blurted out before fainting from exhaustion.

"Braeburn!  Wake Up!," shouted Applejack.  "Pinkie Pie!  Get over here!"  Pinkie Pie ran over to the injured pony.  She quickly began working on him, trying to keep him breathing.

"Princess Celestia, what do you think happened to him?" Twilight asked.  "It looks like he survived something terrible."

Celestia didn't answer.  She was too focused on the mark that was burned on Braeburn's side.  It was a black rose with a snake fiendishly curving around the stem.  "Get my carriage!  Take him to my private doctor in the castle," she ordered.  "I want him kept alive."

"What's the matter?" Twilight asked quizzically.  She had never seen Celestia act this way.

Celestia gave her a serious look.  "I don't think he's a survivor," she said sternly.  "I think he's a warning."

* a hodgepodge of various creatures, usually described as being the size and shape of a dog, with some cat like features such as the head, ears, and claws. It also supposedly has a thick coat of shaggy brown fur and a tail resembling that of a fox.  It is a gluttonous creature that eats anything.

Staring Into the Eyes of the Devil

Braeburn was lying on a four post bed in the center of a white room. Celestia's personnal doctor, with the help of Pinkie Pie, cleaned and bandaged his wounds.  Sweat raced down his burning forehead.  His body quivered as if winter laid its frozen hand on his bare flesh.  Applejack paced restlessly around the room.  "Is he goin tah be okay," she asked as the doc packed his things.

"I can't tell for sure," he replied.  "He has an acute infection and, from what his body is showing, had a rough journey.  It could be weeks before he wakes up.  Applejack didn't say anything else as the doctor left the room.

"He needs his rest," Celestia said to the others.  "I only want Dusk, Twilight, Luna, and myself to be here watching him.  Everypony else should wait outside, until he wakes up."

The other ponies acknowledged her request, except for Applejack.  "Princess, can I stay?  He's family, and I would appreciate it if I could be here when he wakes up," Applejack asked respectfully.

Celestia thought for a moment, then answered, "I will allow it.  You can stay too."  Applejack looked nervously to the floor. She gave Applejack a reassuring smile.  "He'll be fine.  We'll be keeping a vigil over him until he recovers.  My doctor will be on call in case anything happens."

Applejack looked up and returned the smile.  "Thank yah Celestia."  She walked over to Braeburn's bedside, and took a seat on the maple chair that rested beside her ailing cousin.  Twilight decided to lay beside the warm fireplace, and read an old book she borrowed from the library.  Celestia relocated herself to the decorative rug that adorned the left side of the room.  Dusk and Luna retired to the large sofa beside the window.

Dusk repeatedly tapped his hoof against the sofa.  "I don't like this," he said quietly so that no pony but Luna would hear him.

Luna glanced at him peculiarly.  "What's on thy mind?"

"It's that mark on his side," he replied quietly.  "I've seen it before, but I can't remember where."

Luna placed a comforting hoof in his shoulder.  "I'm sure it's just thy imagination.  Just relax."

Dusk got up from where he sat.  "I think we should wake him," he said louder than he was supposed to.  "Whatever he saw could be a danger to everypony.  It could be weeks before he wakes up, and I don't think we have that long."

Applejack overheard Dusk, and rose from her seat.  "Don't yah dare lay a hoof on mah cousin,"

Dusk made his way towards Braeburn.  "Don't you understand?" he stated.  "What ever attacked him might attack Appleloosa might attack other settlements.  It could attack the cities.  It could even attack Canterlot.  We need to wake him up now!"

Celestia tried to break the tension.  "Please be patient," she pleaded.  "If you wake him up prematurely, he could go into shock.  It could permanently scar him."

"That's a chance I'm willing to take," he said as he lunged towards the bed.

Applejack blocked the alicorn's way.  "I don't care if yer my best friend's husband-tah-be," she said threateningly.  "You stay away from mah cousin, or I'll beat yah down in a heartbeat."  Dusk and Applejack stared each other down, both unwilling to give any ground.

Luna slowly walked to her brother's side.  "Please Crimson," she beseeched.  "Thou art just making things worse."

Crimson looked at his younger sister, then back at the orange pony.  Her eyes were still giving him a murderous look.  He sighed.  "I'm sorry," he said backing down.  "I'm just feeling a bit helpless right now.  I fear for our futures."  He allowed Luna to escort him back to the couch.  They both sat back down, and just stared out at the courtyard below.  Applejack went back to her cousin's side.  She noticed the rag on his head was getting dry, so she started to replace it with a damp one.  A deep silence overtook the room.

The seconds ticked by like hours.  Each movement Braeburn made caught the undivided attention of everypony in the room, but always ended with disappointment.  "Celestia," Twilight said breaking the silence.  "May I have a word with you?"  Celestia walked silently over to her student's side.  Twilight closed the leather bound book she had been reading, and looked up at her mentor.  "I have an idea, but I wanted your permission before I carried it out."

"What is it young one?" Celestia asked.

Twilight rose off the ground.  "I've been studying a new spell that would allow me to play the memories of anypony I cast it on for all to see.  Since the situation is dire, I was wondering if I could use it on Braeburn.  I just learned it, so I don't know what it will do to him."

Celestia pondered her students request for a minute.  I shouldn't allow her to do that, she thought.  It could do damage to his mind if done improperly.  She looked sullenly at the clock.  It had been nearly four hours since they placed Braeburn in the bed.  But that brand.  If it is the symbol of who I think it is, then I fear it is the only way.

Celestia nodded at Twilight.  "Be careful.  It could ruin his mind, but I trust in your abililities."

Twilight slowly got up, and walked over to the bed.  Applejack saw her coming, and rose to confront her.  "What'cha goin tah do to my cousin?  If it's goin tah hurt him...."

"I'm going to cast a spell on him, so we can view his memories,"  she said truthfully.  Applejack just stared at her.  "I promise I won't hurt him," she added.

Applejack's gaze veered towards Dusk.  He was still staring out the window, completely unaware of what was going on.  Applejack returned her attention to Twilight.  "i trust yah sugar cube," she said.  "I just don't want to be in the room when yah do it.  I don't know if I'll be able to handle watchin what happened to Appleloosa."

"No pony will blame you for not wanting too," Twilight said comfortingly.  "You don't have to be here."

"But what if Dusk...." she started.

"My brother won't do anything," Celestia interrupted.  "I won't let him.  You have my word."

Applejack paused for a moment.  "Alright," she finally said.  "Ah'm goin tah join the others outside.  Call me if something happens."  Celestia nodded.  Applejack slowly made her way out the door to the room where the others waited.

"She has a strong heart," Celestia said.  Twilight nodded in agreement.  Celestia turned her head to her younger siblings.  "Dusk.  Luna.  Please come over here."  The two did as they were told.

"What is it sister," Luna asked.

"We're going to watch what happened to Braeburn.  Please be quiet while Twilight concentrates," Celestia said gently.  Luna and Dusk gave her an odd look, but remained where they stood.  Celestia gestured at Twilight to go ahead.

Twilight nodded, and placed her horn gently on Braeburn's head.  Her horn emitted a soft, purple glow.  A bubble formed above Braeburn's head, projecting his memories with great clarity.  Twilight concentrated, as she sifted through his memories like flour.  The memories of his past passed quickly within the confines of the projection, until she stopped at the one they were looking for.  It showed the bustling settlement of Appleloosa.  The settlers and buffalo were happily going through the day's toils.  Braeburn's attention fell on a particullary beautiful mare in a frilly, blue dress.  Howdy there Miss Flower Braeburn said inside his memory.

Howdy Braeburn.  It's good to...what's that?" she said pointing off into the distance.  The projection turned to show a strange black blot coming towards the settlement.  It grew more massive with each passing second.  The settlers within Braeburn's view looked uncertainly at the unknown object rampaging towards their little settlement.

Get the mares and youngins inside! Sheriff Silverstar ordered somewhere in the distance.  Stallions, get ready!  I don't like this one bit.  Braeburn watched some of the women and children being hastily herded into the salt lick saloon.  The stallions grabbed whatever they could get their hooves on to defend themselves.  Braeburn quickly grabbed a nearby pitchfork, and fell in with the other males behind a row of haybales.  Chief Thunderhooves could be heard somewhere out of Braeburn's view giving orders.  Braeburn watched the buffalo line up in a defensive formation at the edge of town, waiting for the signal to charge.

The small, black wave divided into smaller figures as it closed in on the town.  Their fangs glinted in the sun, as they charged ferally at the town.  A larger one was leading the charge from the air.  It gave a roar that sent chills down down the spines of the ponies watching the memory, as it descended upon the town.

CHARGE! Thunderhooves commanded to his tribe.  The buffalo tribe kicked up a massive cloud of dust, as they charged headlong into the fray.  They met the unknown enemy with brute force, trampling some of the littler one's heads into the dirt.  The buffalo used their massive size to try and push back the attacking force, and it appeared to be working.  Then, the little ones extended their insect-like wings, and took flight, and attacked the buffalo from above.  The buzzing from their wings was deafining.

With no way to defend from the savage air assault, the buffalo were being torn to shreds.  Blood was seen spurting from their wounds, as the black demons bit and stabbed into the buffalo's tough flesh.  They tore viciously at the buffalo's throats and eyes.  The buffalo continued to fight with all their hearts, but to no avail.

THEY NEED OUR HELP!  EVERYPONY...ATTACK!  DON'T LET EM INTO THE TOWN! Silverstar ordered as he charged in with a dirty shovel.  The small band of stallions raced to aid their buffalo friends.  They met the creatures with a ferocity that would have scared an Ursa Major.  Braeburn jumped on top of one of the buffalo, and used his pitchfork to stab three of the buzzing pests.  The demons regrouped behind their larger leader, and converged against the brave stallions.  Braeburn turned to see Silverstar dispatching a few of the buzzing demons

Hold fast! Silverstar screamed.  He smashed in the skull of one of the wounded demons.  One of them tried to attack Silverstar from his right, but he knocked it down in one deft movement.  He brought the shovel down hard onto its head.  Brains seeped out of the hole his blow left.  What's the matter?  Can't stand against a true westerner?" he yelled brazenly.

The shout caught the attention of the larger demon.  It bellowed as it rushed at Sheriff Silverstar.  It raised its massive hoof into the air, and swatted at Silverstar.  It made contact, and sent him flying to the ground.  Silverstar! Braeburn shouted.  The black demon heard Braeburn's cries, and smacked him in the side of the face.  Braeburn rolled a few feet in front of Silverstar.

The bigger, black demon stood tall over the earth ponies.  The wind seemed to be unnaturally swirling behind the behemoth.  Braeburn watched, as it picked up Silverstar in its twisted hoof.  It pulled the hilt of a sword from the belt that hung around its massive shoulder, but it didn't have a blade.  What's the matter?  Mommy don't like it when yah play with sharp objects? Silverstar said mockingly.  The wind roared, as it curved around the hilt.  The wind twisted and turned, until it formed a massive blade where the steel would have been.  The creature raised the wind sword high in the sky, and brought it down on Silverstar's neck, causing blood to spray on Braeburn's face.  His body fell to the ground.  It twitched and convulsed for a few moments, before it froze in stillness forever.

The sheriff's head was still in the clutches of the black figure, forever frozen in fear and horror.  It sniffed at the head and took a huge bite out of it, chewing the remains loudly.  Braeburn winced as he heard the cracking of bone between the demon's sharp.  The towering figure threw what remained of Silverstar's head over its shoulder, and proceeded towards Braeburn.  Braeburn grabbed his pitchfork, and stabbed at the menacing figure.  It grabbed the pitchfork and, with one deft movement, split it in two.  It picked Braeburn up just as it did for Silverstar.  It stared curiously at the struggling earth pony.  It lifted its sword, and began to bring it down towards his neck.  Enough Vortex! a disembodied voice commanded.  The howling blade stopped inches away from his neck.

Braeburn was thrown to the ground.  His vision blurred, as the demon placed its hoof on the side of Braeburn's head to prevent him from running away.  Two figures came into view.  One looked the same as the large demon, but seemed to be female and more slender.  The other was a black alicorn.  His purple and black mane flew carelessly in the wind.  I have plans for this one. he stated.  He stared intently at Braeburn with unnerving, purple eyes.

I know you'll be watching this Celestia, he said to Braeburn.

Who are you...? Braeburn said before being punched by the demon.  His vision went blurry for a moment.

Thank you my son, he said to the towering figure.  As I was saying, know this my dear Tia.  What you are about to witness will be the fate of your entire kingdom.  I'm going to enjoy every last second of it.  He nodded towards the distance.  Atomic Vortex picked Braeburn up off the ground.  As he did, Braeburn caught a glimpse of the corpses that litterd the town.  It seemed Braeburn was the only survivor of the carnage.  His vision swirled, as Atomic Vortex turned his head towards the saloon.  The smaller demons were lighting torches and placing  kindling at the base of the building.  The cries of terror from the mares and fillies filled the air.

Stop! There are mares and fillies in there! Braeburn begged.

The black alicorn cackled.  His cold eyes met Braeburn's.  I know.  He nodded once more towards the little creatures.  They used the torches to light the kindling.  The fire grew in a matter of seconds.  It hungrily climbed the walls of the saloon.  Pillars of smoke reached towards the sky.  The screams inside grew frantic.  One of the mares jumped out of the window.  Her entire body was engulfed in the flames.  She hysterically ran around in circles, before dropping to the ground whimpering in pain.  Braeburn was forced to watch, until the saloon became an ash pile.  The alicorn came into view once again.  Would you kindly deliver my message to Ponyville? he said sinisterly to Braeburn.

Wh...what message, he replied.

The alicorn's horn began to glow a horrendous black.  The one I'm going to painfully burn onto your side, he said.  He lowered his head towards Braeburn.

NO! PLEASE! STOP! Braeburn pleaded.  His head shook, as he desperatly tried to free himself.  His struggling grunts were replaced with screams of pain.  Everypony in the room watched in horror as the memory faded to black.

An Unwelcome Visitor

The room took on an ominous air.  The bubble had long faded from its brief existance, but the ponies continued to gawk at the blank space where the terrible vision had been.  They could feel terror's cold grip squeezing the warmth from their soul.  "I can't believe it," Dusk said shaking his head in disbelief.  "He killed them all.  The mares...the fillies...everypony."  Luna jumped into Dusk's arms.  Tears fell from her sparkling eyes, as she dug herself deeper into his protective embrace.

Celestia continued to stare where the projection had been.  Her body was ridged like steel, but her mind raced with the speed of the wind. I knew he was evil, but this.... He must be stopped, else all of Equestria will suffer  I can't let this fiend destroy what my father spent his life building and protecting.

Twilight, still shaken by the vision of such a horrible atrocity, lightly tapped the stunned princess on the shoulder.  Her voice trembled, as she spoke,  "Wh-why do you think he's doing this?"  Her soft, purple eyes stared at her mentor, desprately waiting for a reply.

Celestia snapped out of her stupor and stared meaningfully at her young student.  "I fear he is out for revenge against my family, and he is starting with my kingdom," she said with a heavy heart.  This is my fault.

"I've never seen anything so...so appalling," stated Twilight with a quivering voice.  "What do we do now?"

Crimson held Luna tighter to his body as he spoke authoritively.  "We have to rally our soldiers.  We can't let him do anymore harm to the innocent citizens of Equestria."  He stamped his hoof on the ground, causing an echo to resound off the white walls of the room.  "I won't allow it!"

Luna released herself from her brother. Her fear replaced by a burning desire for vengence.  "I agree with Dusk.  Tis time we stood up to this fiend.  I'm committing my knights to hunt this detested parasite, his head shall hang from the highest tower by nightfall," she said passionately.

Celestia shook her head.  Her soothing voice was replaced with one that a mother would use to chide her children for misbehaving.  "That is enough you two!  I will not allow my authority to be cast aside like yesterday's hay.  There is no need for more sensless bloodshed.  We have the elements of harmony, so let's use them to bring down this threat."

The three ponies were caught off guard by Celestia's sudden change in posture.  Luna and Twilight bowed humbly down to her saying, "Sorry Princess.  We meant no disrespect."  Dusk reluctantly mimiced the two ponie's apologetic offering, but remained silent.

Celestia turned sharply to the door.  "Follow me to the vault," she ordered.  They walked briskly out the door, startling the other ponies on the other side.

Applejack's eyes expressed the worry that overtook her entire body.  "What's goin on?" Applejack asked concerned.  "Is Braeburn okay?"

Twilight gave her orange friend a despondent look.  "I don't think he will ever be okay, but you all must come with us.  There isn't much time," Twilight replied, gesturing for the others to join them.  The ponies followed Celestia silently down a long corridor decorated with paintings of gentle autumn scenes.  They turned down another long corridor, and continued to wind down the hallways of Canterlot Castle.  They stopped in an extravagant room with stained glass windows.  The sun shone brightly through the colorful glass, spreading different colors across the giant room's marble walls and floor.  A long, red carpet with golded embroidalry ran the length of the room, ending at an ornate door.

They promptly trotted to the magical door.  Celestia stuck her horn into the slot that was specially made for her.  The door flashed a pearescent blue, as the magical door opened.  It slowly opened to reveal a large ebony box with golden leaves ethched into the smooth surface.  Celestia used her magic to pick up the decorative box that held the elements of harmony.

She presented the elements to the six ponies.  The elements shined brightly within the confines of the box, as if saying hello to their physical representations.  Celestia opened her mouth to speak, but an evil laugh that echoed throughout the chamber cut her off.  "What is that?" Luna asked, preparing for the worst.  Dusk felt his muscles tense at the familar laugh.  He protectively stepped in front of his little sister, as black smoke gracefully descended to the marble floor.  It slowly formed into a sneering, black alicorn.

All nine ponies froze in disbelief.  "Draconus," said Celestia.

His voice sounded like silver chimes rustling in the breeze.  "Good to see you," he said politely.  "How have you been?"

Celestia quickly regained her composure.  "How dare you enter my home!"

"Your home?" he said tilting his head.  "Oh right.  I forgot that your father passed away."  Draconus arrogantly paced around the nine ponies, each step sending shivers down their spines.  "How I did enjoy his company.  It would be an understatement to say he was my best friend.  It was kind of him to play my most favorite game before he passed.  I think it was called...regicide. The screams for his brave, young boy to save him made it even more pleasurable, as my dagger found its way to his gentle heart."  He turned to face the crimson alicorn. "I always wondered where you went.  He might  still be alive, if you hadn't run away like a coward."

Dusk's blood boiled over causing him to lash out in rage.  "I'LL KILL YOU!" Dusk cried, charging at the evil monster that smirked crassly at him.  Draconus just laughed.  His horn gave off a black aura as he cast a spell at the oncoming prince.  Dusk stopped dead in his tracks.  His entire body ignored the commands from his brain to move.  His eyes darted back and forth, confused at what just transpired.

Rainbow Dash tried to rush to her fiance's side, but found that she couldn't move either.  It seemed that everypony, including Celestia, was paralyzed  by his malicious spell.  "How rude," Draconus said disappointedly.  "Is this how you treat all your guests?"  He walked menacingly towards Celestia.

"Did you get my message?  Of course you did.  Why else would you be retrieveing the elements of harmony?" he mocked in a charming fashion.  He sat down in front of Celestia, gently caressing her flowing mane.  "Did you enjoy the little display my army made?"  She just looked at him with hatred in her eyes.  "Oh, how silly of me," he said as his horn flashed briefly.

Celestia could feel the muscles in her mouth begin to loosen, as the magic that bound them was released.  She spit into Draconus' face.  "You're a monster," she said with hate seething from every word.  "You're not fit to live, no matter what Starswirl said about you.  I will see to it that you are put to death for your crimes."

Draconus carefully wiped the spit from his face.  "Still the arrogant brat I used to babysit from time to time," he said.  His hoof reached for a dagger that hung from his belt.  The blade made a menacing sound as he pulled it from the leather sheath.  He pressed it against the white alicorn's pulsing neck.  Celestia could feel her blood turn to ice.  "Tell me Celestia," he said malevolently, "how does it feel to be completely helpless as your kingdom is slowly being destroyed?"

He dug the blade deeper into Celestia's flesh.  She felt a bead blood trickle down her neck.  "I could end it right now," he continued.  "I could just cut your throat out, and be done with it all."

The eight helpless ponies' eyes darted back and forth.  Their thoughts were haphazardly racing through their terrified minds as they all tried to think of a way to save their beloved princess.  A tear fell from Twilight's eye.  I can't use my magic.  We're at the mercy of this psycopath.  There's nothing I can do, she thought hoplessly.

Draconus, feeling the message was clear, slowly withdrawing the blade from her throat.  "What fun would that be though?" he asked, sheathing the blade.  "If you were dead, I couldn't make you watch everything your father loved be destroyed.  It wouldn't feel like I earned this glorious kingdom if I won it through such underhanded tactics."  His face was still twisted into an impudent grin, as he rose from the ground.  "I know," he said.  "I'll give you exactly one month, then I attack Ponyville.  It was always your favorite little town.  I want that place to be the final act of our little performance.  The grand battle between my forces and whatever you can muster up.  I'll even order my changlings to not use there morphing ability.  After all, how would that be fair."

He used his magic to pick up the box that still contained the elements of harmony.  "Speaking of fairness," he said cynically.  "These trinkets will only give you an unfair advantage."  His form began to evaporate into the air.  "It was good seeing you all again.  I should visit more often," he chortled before completely vainishing from the room.

The ponies could feel the magic holding them begin to fade, their muscles once again under their control. Applejack ran over to comfort Rarity, who had fainted in her over dramatic fashion.  The others just stood stifly where they were.  "Princess Celestia," Twilight asked sincerely. "Are you okay?"  Celestia didnt' respond.  Draconus' words were still echoing in her mind.

Luna caressed her older sister.  "What does thou want us to do?" she asked while stroking Celestia's glorious coat in an attempt to comfort her awestruck sister.

"I'll tell you what we need to do," Dusk interrupted seemingly unaffected by the prior events.  "We need to prepare for war.  You heard his warning.  We need to muster a defense at Ponyville."

"It's Celestia's decision, not yours," Luna said sternly.

Everypony looked earnestly at their leader.  She felt pressure slowly descend upon her mind, and quickly snapped out of her daze,  "we need to summon a council to discuss what we will do."  She turned to Twilight.  "Summon the leaders of Cloudsdale and Ponyville at once."

"What about the other cities?" Twilight asked.  "Don't they need to be here?"

"It would take too long for them to organize an envoy.  I'll send some of my heliacal knights to evacuate the citizens.  That is all I can do for them," Celestia said.  Her entire posture turned from a caring mother to that of a serious leader in an instant.

Twilight nodded.  "Come on girls," she said to her friends.  "We have a job to do."  Twilight and her friends, with the exception of Rainbow Dash, hastily departed the room, eagar to carry out Celestia's orders.

"Do you want me to escort thou to thy room sister?"  Luna asked after they had gone.  Celestia, feeling the weight grow heavy upon her regal shoulders, allowed her sister to take her to her private chambers.  Luna let Celestia lean on her side as she walked her out of the vault room.

Rainbow Dash and Crimson Dusk were left alone in the majestic room.  Dusk was looking out one of the windows at the gardens below.  Dash could tell something was troubling him, even if he didn't show it earlier.  "What's on your mind?" she asked lovingly.

He turned to face her.  His solemn eyes met her determined gaze.  "Rainbow Dash," he said with a serious tone.  "I fear that dark times are closing in."  He stood up and sluggishly walked to the door.  Before he left, he stated with a bleeding heart,  "these are the times that try ponies' souls."  The words oscillated within the chamber as he and Dash trotted out the door towards an unknown future.

The Lines Drawn

Author's Note: This is an unfinished product that will never be finished.  I posted this as a courtesy to my readers, so all errors don't matter.  Enjoy what could have been.

Rainbow Dash tapped her hoof impaiently on the table.  I thought this would be exciting, she thought to herself.  Talk about a snoozefest.  Rainbow Dash, being Crimson Dusk's betrothed, was invited to join in on the war council.  She accepted thinking there would be a lot of action involved.  Her focus drifted slowly around the extravagant room.  A mural of the sun rising over a peaceful meadow.stretched across the massive celing.  The white walls were covered with beautiful etchings of flowers and animals.  Two golden chandilears swayed gracefully overtop the table, lighting the windowless room.

Her gaze shifted from the decor to the ponies that joined her in the room.  Princess Celestia and Princess Luna idely chatted across from her.  Twilight sat quietly beside her brother, Shining Armor, and a massive pegusus pony she had never met before.  Rainbow Dash had never seen him before, but he seemed to be important enough to be joining them.  Mayor Mare, being the first representative to arrive, had the pleasure of sitting beside Princess Celestia.   Her wandering eyes finally came to a rest on the crimson stallion that sat beside her.

Dusk stared intently at the square fabric that rested on the table; his eyes tracing the lines that represented the borders of Equestria and the kingdoms that surrounded it.  "How much longer til we start?" she quietly whispered to Dusk. "I'm sooooo bored."

His concentration broke for a brief moment as he answered,  "we have to wait for the other leaders before we start.  The mayors of Cloudsdale and Canterlot haven't arrived yet."  His attention returned to the map of Equestria, before the last word left his lips.

Rainbow Dash's ears perked at the mention of Canterlot's mayor.  "Canterlot has a mayor?' she asked, surprised at the idea.  "I thought Celestia was in charge."

Celestia overheard the question and answered with an tired voice,  "Being the ruler of Equestria means I am away on important business for most of the day.  "I need some one to handle the day to day problems in Canterlot, while I'm away."

Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to speak, but was cut off by the groans of the heavy wooden door being opened behind her.  A brown stallion wearing a blue robe and hood entered the room.  "Now presenting...Mayor Storm Runner of Cloudsdale and Mayor Powdered Wig of Canterlot," he stated in a raspy voice.

An old, red pegusus with a long beard shuffled into the makeshift war room.  His sandy yellow mane had lost its youthful luster long ago.   His bright blue eyes were the only part of him that defied his age.  A monocole covered his right eye, and also seemed to be his cutie mark.  He was accompanied by a white unicorn wearing a frilly dress and a powdered wig.  Her dull, grey eyes peered at the ponies sitting at the table, as if judging their worthiness to be in the same room as her.

They took the two empty seats beside Mayor Mare.  "Good afternoon," greeted Storm Runner in a sagely tone.  "It's good to see you again, Miss Mare."  She humbly bowed her head to the old stallion.

Mayor Wig was still scolding the cyan peguasus.  "I understand why Miss Sparkle is here," she stated snobbishly, "but why is that horrid pegusus attending a civil discussion?"  Her nostirls flared as she sniffed the air.  "It smells as if she hasn't bathed in weeks."

Rainbow Dash's face hardened.  She prepped herself to pounce on the persnickity unicorn, but Crimson Dusk quickly blocked the offended pegusus' way with his hoof.  Getting the message, she reluctantly sat back down.  "This is my wife-to-be," he said to the snobby pony.  "You will treat her with respect.  Do you understand."

She looked quizzically at the crimson alicorn.  "You are marrying that...that peasant," she said, shocked by the revelation.  "How could a stallion with your bloodline ever fall for a revolting commonor?"

Rainbow Dash gave her a menacing look.  All she wanted to do right now was give her a good old dashin thrashin, but she pushed her anger aside and let Dusk handle it.  "Well for starters, she doesn't wear a rolled up mop on the top of her head," he stated.  Mayor Runner giggled at his observation.  Mayor Wig turned and gave him a not-to-pleased look.

Celestia stomped her hoof on the ground.  "Enough!" she stated.  Everypony in the room fell silent, but that didn't stop the snotty mayor from giving out more unfriendly looks.  "We have grave matters to discuss here," she said.  She turned her attention to the mayors, "have you read the briefings I sent you?"

Mayor Storm Runner was the first to speak.  "What you have sent us is troubling indeed," he said stroking his beard.  "Changlings raiding minor settlements is one thing, but attacking metropolitan areas is just nerve racking."

Celestia nodded her head in agreement.  "I have called this meeting to discuss the actions we should take against threat that looms over Ponyville," she said.  "I propose we evacutate the citizens of Ponyville to Canterlot."

Mayor Wig cleared her throat before she spoke, "I have reviewed the populaiton numbers of Ponyville.  It has come to my attention that we do not have the space nor the supplies to harbor that many refugees.  We may have enough to house one-fifth of the population, but not the entrie...."

"We can't just leave them there to die," Dusk interrupted, hitting his hoof off the table.  Mayor Wig shot him a dirty look, but allowed him to continue.  "Those ponies trust us to protect them.  I believe we should muster a fighting force at Ponyville."

Celestia thought for a moment, then said, "We can't do that.  Canterlot must be protected," her hoof reached out and lightly tapped the map in the center of the table.  "We could bring the fillies and the seniors to Canterlot and send the rest off into the Everfree Forest."

Luna gasped at Celestia's suggestion.  "Sister!" she exclaimed, a shocked expression crossed her face.  "How could you suggest such a thing!"  Celestia turned and scolded her.  Luna shrank back at her sister's disciplinary glare.

Dusk, however, was not so easily perturbed.  "I will not allow this.  That is their home.  They shouldn't have to go live in the forest like some common animal," he argued.  His voice echoed in the chamber.

Mayor Mare'ss grey tail nervously waved her tail side to side.  "With all due respect Princess," she chimed in, "most of those ponies won't willingly leave their town.  They worked hard to make it so nice; they love it too much to give it up."

Mayor Wig rose her head high in the air and said, "I agree with the Princess.  She has never let us down before."

Mayor Storm Runner rolled his eyes.  "You're just saying that to impress the Princess," he stated matter of factly.  She shot him a menacing stare.  He chuckled at her attempt to intimidate him.  "I have had many a mare give me those same looks.  I advised them to find a mirror so they could see how foolish they appeared."

Mayor Wig's head reeled back.  Her eyes were open wide, and her mouth was agape.  "How dare you," she said, clearly offended.  "I havent' heard you give your opinon on what to do."  She sat back and crossed her hooves in front of her dainty chest.

"I don't have an opinion to give," he stated, giving her a sly smile.  "I haven't decided yet, so I chose not to open my mouth.  You could learn something about manners from me."  She rolled her eyes at his remark, but remained silent.

Rainbow Dash covered her mouth so no pony would hear her giggling.  She turned to Dusk and whispered, "I take that back.  This is fun to watch."  He chuckled lightly at her comment.  Celestia facehoofed herself.

"Do you find this funny?" asked Mayor Wig.  Her Powdered Wig slipped down her face, covering her eye.  Her befuddled look only made Dash laugh harder.  Mayor Wig straigtened her hairpiece with one deft movement.  "I have never met such an impudent child like you.  I think one year olds are more mature than you," she beratted, while waving her hoof sternfully in the air.  "This is exactly why we should let Ponyville fend for itself."

Rainbow Dash ceased her mocking laughter.  A mere touch could have burnt a hole through solid steel; her anger was burning so hot.  "Hey!" she exclaimed, rising from her seat and losing all restraint on her emotions.  "Who are you to judge what town lives or dies?  Canterlot may be awesome looking, but the people here are nothing but brats.  The flaunt around thinking they are so better than everypony else.  Ponyville is the heart of Equestria.  Everypony there works hard to live each day.  They are kind and understanding to anypony that needs help.  They are the ones that deserve saving, not some dressed up egg heads."  Everypony fell silent, as she finished her tyrade.  All except Mayor Runner, whom clapped at her patriotic passion.

Celestia rose from her seat.  "That is enough Rainbow Dash," she stated.  She placed her elegant hoof abrubtly on the table.  "You are not helping the situation.  I am the Princess, so I will decide what our course of action is."  Her angry stare never left the cyan pegusus' position.  Rainbow Dash, feeling the pressure from Celestia's infuriated scold, shrank back down into her seat.

Dusk, on the other hand, abrubtly rose from his and stated, "She is right.  It is our duty to save these ponies.  They are the ones that work hard for their living.  They are the ones that show a compassion that you can't find in Canterlot.  I'm going to help defend Ponyville, with or without your blessing."

Celestia's eyes widened from the shock, but her infuriated expression remained stalwart.  "You were always the rash one.  You never thought anything through, and you continue to adhere to your traditional way of thinking to this very day.  I am the ruler of Equestira, not you!" she argued.

Dusk's expression darkened.  "You always thought you were the all-knowing princess, who could do no wrong.  You and I both know that is far from the truth, and you still continue to think your decisions are the only way to go.  I say we let the leaders decide what to do.  Let them deciede what is important for a change, not some ruler who only recieved her crown because she could raise the sun!"

Celestia's meanacing tone did not leave her voice, "Fine, brother.  We shall see where these ponies loyalties lie."  She turned to face Mayor Powdered Wig.  "What say you Mayor of Canterlot.  Will your Unicorn Police Force stand with Canterlot, or defend Ponyville."

"I side with Princess Celestia," she said smartly.  "Ponyville will recieve no help from the fine unicorns of Canterlot."  She shot a smirk at Rainbow Dash.  She narrowed her eyes and mouthed an indignified phrase to the unicorn.

"Mayor Mare," Celestia said, resuming the discussion, "where do you stand?"  Celestia's voice resounded in the circular chamber, giving her words more feeling than what was needed.

Mayor Mare shifted in her seat.  Sweat trickled down her forehead from the pressure she was feeling.  To her, it seemed the whole world was waiting for her desicion.  Her thoughts raced back to the kind people she had the pleasure of representing.  Their warm smiles brightening an dark day.  Their joyous laughter being carried off all over the world, as if the wind wanted to share their song of happiness.  She closed her eyes for a brief moment and took a deep breath.  When she opened her eyes, all doubt had been replaced with the strong feeling of confidence.  "I side with Ponyville.  I will do whatever it takes to protect everypony there, even give up my seat in office."

Celestia arched her eyebrows in quiet disbeilef, but held her regal stature.  She turned to the Mayor of Cloudsdale.  His bright eyes stared knowingly at the Princess, showing no hint of fear.  "Where do you stand, Mayor Storm Runner?"

His stroked his beard for a few seconds, contemplating what he should do.  The old pony's bright eyes sparkled as if they were made of diamonds.  "In times of old, Cloudsdale used to be a floating warcloud," he said, still stroking his beard.  "It would fire bolts of lightning down at any that would stand against our kingdom.  I fear the time for that warcloud's return has come."  The sparkle in his eyes intensified as he spoke, "Cloudsdale has always sided with whoever it felt would lead it on a path paved with honor and rightousness.  That cyan pegusus spoke true about the hearts of those ponies.  They are the blood that gives life to this kingdom, and I won't let them suffer so that the rich and privilaged can remain safe in their ivory walls.  Cloudsdale offers its support to Ponyville.  May fate have mercy on our souls."

"You are a foolish old stallion," Mayor Powdered Wig stated.  "How could you side against Celestia?"

Storm Runner stopped stroking his beard, and shot an irritated look at Miss Wig.  "My family has always supported those they believed earned it.  From the passion and commitment Miss Mare and Miss Dash has shown, I can conclude with no doubt that they have earned it."

Celestia's heart raced in her regal chest.  "Luna," she blurted out, "where do your loyalties stand?"

Luna's gaze shifted between her brother and sister.  She could feel a cold feeling creep up her spine.  I don't know what to do! she thought.  Oh father, I wish you were here.

The thought of her father brought up memories of a happier time.  She remembered the warmth his laugher radiated, even on the coldest nights.  She remembered the strength his eyes had shown, even when times were dark.  Some words her father had told her made their way towards the forfront of her mind.  My sweet Lulu, he had said.  Remember that kingdoms aren't about how many battles they won, or the mountains of gold in their treasury.  Great kingdoms can only be made by great ponies that support them.  Without their hard work and undying love, a kingdom can not stand.[/i

The recollection of the memory released a single glimmering tear from her gently eye.  "I pledge my Lunar Knights to the defense of Ponyville," she stated, rising her head up high.  Her attention turned to the massive pegusus pony.  "Commander Bright Star, rally the knights and make haste for Ponyville at once."  He bowed his head and left the room.

Dusk, still out of his seat, stated, "It is done.  You stand with one pampered pony on your side, while others rally to defend Ponyville.  I hope you're proud of youself."  With that, he led the other ponies out of the room.

Luna made for the door.  "Sister, may I have a word," Celestia stated.  Luna froze where she stood.  She turned to meet her fuming sister.

"What is it?" she asked.

Celestia trotted over to where Luna stood.  "How could you side against me?  How could you side against your kingdom?  Have you forgotten how hard our father worked to build this city?"

All weakness had left Luna at the mention of their father.  She stood defiantly towards her sister.  "I have not forgotten our father's work in building this entire kingdom," she said.  "He worked tiressly to ensure the lives of each pony would be filled with joy.  He would be ashamed at what you proposed today."

Celestia held her ground, refusing to believe what she was hearing.