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                 1k - The Start of an Era                  
                     -by Dark Vessel-                      
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             0: An Introduction (Mostly story)             
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0: An Introduction (Mostly story)
The two deposed princesses scaled the grassy hill, panting as Luna finally sighed, dipping her head before turning to her sister "That... Was too close. The dancing moles were one thing, but those animated scissors were downright dangerous!" she exclaimed with wide eyes, before sighing and dipping her head as Celestia grimaced, replying "At least we made it out unharmed, but I fear the worst is yet to come. If the mare was right, the start of Discord's protection of the forest should be right over this-- Hill..."
The two finally crested a hill, looking upon a large, gaping void, countless, relatively small islands visible floating as far as the eye could see within it, connected by bridges, with only one island - the one ahead of them - connected to the mainland. Surprisingly enough, signs of life were visible, various lights shining from the islands, and what looked like wooden buildings. A large wall was visible separating the first island from the mainland, a few heads high with what looked like writhing stallions bound to them, chained spread-eagle and fully exposed.
Celestia blinked, a blush working it's way onto her face "...Ponies are already here? Incredible, but... Are those...?" she questioned with a squint, Luna similarly blushing and giving a sigh "...There's only one way to find out. Hopefully they're willing, even in Discord's influence. Worst-case, we could save them, but... With so many islands, we may need help finding the tree, and this settlement does look populated..." she stated, Celestia responding with a frown and nod as the two started to walk forwards. Unbeknown to them, in the grass behind them, two yellow and red eyes slowly opened, staring upon the two.
Discord slowly blinked, watching the two before a crack in the ground below the eyes worked it's way into a smile
Hmmm... The ex-rulers come here? Whatever for? Ahh, well. There's surely some way for me to spread chaos to them here... Perhaps... A bit of disharmony~? A bit of a nudge, and enough exposure to the little population here could... Permanently change their opinions on stallions~ Hehehe... See you later, princesses.
Almost unnoticeably, a tiny bit of colour drained from the two mares' coats, their minds being altered towards the Master of Chaos's whims