The Unicorn of the Crystal Empire

Chapters

The Tale
The Visit
The Crystal Fair
The Sanctuary
The Search
The Court of Miracles
The Battle
The Confrontation

The Tale

The sun rises over the kingdom of the Crystal Empire as the bells inside the cathedral that stands close to the castle began to ring. The children walked up to the a squire who was putting up a show in front of the castle as the bells rung.

The Squire

Morning in the kingdom, the city awakes
To the bells of the Crystal Empire
The sun shines the town, the baker pony bakes
To the bells of the Crystal Empire
Which are big and as loud as the thunder
And the little bells soft as a hum
And some say the soul of the kingdom is
The toll of the bells
The bells of the Crystal Empire

“Ah, listen they are beautiful, no?” the squire asked the fillies. “So many colors of sound and so many changing moods. Because, now, they’re not ringing all by themselves.”

“They’re not?” a filly asked.

“No, silly. Up there, high, high in the dark bell tower, lives the mysterious bell ringer. Who is this pony? What is he? And how did he come to be there? But fret not, little ones. I will tell you. This is a tale, a tale of a young stallion.”

A thousand years ago was the night where our tale has begun

A baby pony in a mare’s arms cried as a group of ponies sneak around the crystal kingdom. One of the ponies turned to the mare and whispered, “Shut him up will you, Radiant.”

“We’ll be spotted!!” the other whispered. Radiant quietly hushed the baby as the group proceeded on through the streets of the kingdom.

Four frightened ponies slid silently
Through the town of the Crystal Empire

Guards then came out of nowhere and surrounded the group in a circle pointing their spears at them.

But a trap had been laid for the ponies
As they gaze up in fear and alarm
While they encounter the most
Feared pony of them all
The bells of the Crystal Empire

A lone stallion suddenly stepped out of the shadows and walked towards the group with a grin on his face.

King Sombra, the tyrannical ruler
With a heart as black as night

Sombra gestured one of the guards to grab the ponies except Radiant who held her child tight and put them in chains and escorted them away from her.

He rules with an iron hoof
Everywhere
Except within

“Send these gypsy vermin to the castle dungeon where they belong,” Sombra ordered.

A guard noticed Radiant Hope holding something and demanded, “You there! What are you hiding?”

“Stolen goods, no doubt. Take them from my old friend.”

She ran!!

As Radiant ran for her life as she held her child tight, King Sombra pursued her through the streets of the city. She used her magic to teleport away from him and then came across a cathedral past the castle after she lost him and rushed to the door as she cried, “Somepony help!! Give us sanctuary!” Sombra finally catches up to her on the steps of the cathedral. He rips the still covered bundle from her arms with his magic, and slaps her in the face. The baby then begins to cry.

“A baby?” Sombra asked himself as he uncovered the head of a baby red unicorn colt with his magic. His eyes widened in shock and gasped. “My son!” Radiant slowly looked up to see Sombra holding the baby. Sombra then looks at her with his eyes glowing with anger and readied a magic strike until he suddenly got blasted by magic. Sombra drops the baby, but Radiant manages to catch him on time with her magic. She sighed with relief and looked up to see Celestia and her sister; Luna, standing in front of her.

"Enough!!" Celestia cried.

Celestia

See there the innocent lives you tried to take
On the steps of the Crystal Empire

“I am guiltless. She ran with our child and I pursued.”

Luna

Now you will throw more countless lives to waste
On the steps of the Crystal Empire

“My conscience is clear since I took the throne.”

Celestia

You can lie to yourself and your minions
This time you have gone to far
But you never can run from
Nor hide from the light

Celestia and Luna

The very light of the Crystal Empire

Celestia and Luna’s horns glowed as they fired a beam of magic at Sombra and turned him into shadow then banished him to the ice of the arctic north, but Sombra was able to leave something behind before he was banished.

The Squire

And for one time in his life of power and control
Sombra was banished to the Frozen North
But not til he placed a curse

Princess Celestia turned to Radiant who looked at her child with worry. "He may have been defeated," Celestia said. "But now we must flee." Radiant had the look of thought and looked up to the princesses.

"You both go," Radiant said. "I have a child to take care of here."

"But where will you live?" Luna asked. "This kingdom is going to vanish."

"Anywhere...." Radiant looked up at the cathedral and smiled.

Radiant Hope

Somewhere where he won’t find us when he returns

“The bell tower of this cathedral perhaps. And who knows when the time may come.”

Even though my son may yet prove one day to be
A new hope for us

“And so Radiant Hope stayed in the Crystal Empire for many years,” the Squire narrated. “Until the day came when the kingdom returned as she still raises her only son; Charming Thunder.”

The Squire

Now here is a riddle to guess if you can
Sing the bells of the Crystal Empire
Who is the monster and who is the stallion

Sing the bells, bells, bells, bells
Bells, bells, bells, bells
Bells of the Crystal Empire!!!

The Visit

Charming Thunder stood outside of the bell tower next to two diamond dog statues. He noticed a bird nest inside one of the statues mouth and said to the little bird, "Good morning." The bird woke up and squeaked its approval to him. "Will today be the day? Are you ready to fly?" The bird then squeaked its disapproval. "You sure? Good day to try." He then picked up the bird out of the mouth of the statue and held it in his hooves. "Why, if I were a pegasus and picked a day to fly, this would be it!" Charming Thunder then looked down to see preparations going on in front of the castle. "The Crystal Fair!" The bird who sat in Charming Thunder's hooves gulped and squeaked. "It will be fun. The jugglers, and music, and games, and dancing..." The bird begun to flap its wings as Charming Thunder slowly removed his hooves until the bird is hovering in place. He chuckles and shows his hooves to the bird, who finally realizes that it is flying. It then squeaks an approval, then a question, as a flock of birds fly by. "Go on! Nopony wants to be cooped up here forever." The bird flies off to join the flock. As soon as it's gone, one of the Diamond Dog statues came to life and spat out the nest.

"Oh, man!" the Diamond Dog shouted. "I thought he'd never leave! I'll be spitting feathers for a week!" The other Diamond Dog next to Charming Thunder came to life and looked at them.

"Well that's what you get for sleeping with your mouth open, Ollie," the other Diamond Dog said. Ollie made a sarcastic chuckle.

"Oh, why don't you scare a mare, Scout. Hey, Charmy. What's going on out there A fight? A flogging?"

"A fair."

"You mean the Crystal Fair?" Charming Thunder nodded as he continued to watch the preparations go on for the fair. "All right, all right! Pour the cider and cut the cheese!"

"It is a treat to watch the colorful pageantry of the simple pony folk."

"Boy, nothing like balcony seats for watching the ol' F.O.F."

"Yeah," Charming Thunder said, dejected. "Watching." He then started to walk away from the balcony and headed inside.

"Hey what gives?"

"Aren't you going to watch the festival with us?"

"I don't get it."

"Perhaps he is sick today."

Another Diamond Dog catches up to the rest as she said, "Impossible. If twenty years of listening to you two hasn't made him sick by now, nothing will."

"But watching the Crystal Fair has always been the highlight of the year for Charming Thunder, Layla."

"What good is watching the party if you never get to go hear it?" Birds have begun to roost on Layla. She waves to shoo them away from her. "Get away from me, go on, you bunch of buzzards! He's not made of crystal, like us." Charming Thunder sat at a window with the better view of the fair. Layla went to him to see what's up. "Charmy, what's wrong? Do you want to tell Layla all about it?"

"I...I'm just tired of just watching the fair, that's all," Charming Thunder said.

"Well, did you ever think about going there instead?"

"Sure, but I'd never fit in down there."

"Oh, Charmy." Layla paused as the birds returned to perch on her again. "Do you mind? I would like to have a moment with the boy, if it's all right with you!" Her yelling scared the birds away as Scout and Ollie came up to them.

"Hey, quit beating around the bell tower," Ollie said. "Whadda we gotta do? Paint you a fresco?"

"As your friends and guardians, we insist you attend the fair," Scout added.

"Me?"

"No, the princess. Of course you!"

"It would be a very good opportunity for you to have an educational experience."

"Cider, mares, and song."

"You can get an opportunity to meet the current princess and her prince."

"Bobbing for apples."

"And the indigenous folk music."

"Playing dunk the jester."

"Charmy, take it from an old spectator," Layla explained. "Life's not a spectator sport. If watching is all you're gonna do, then you're gonna watch your life go by without you."

"Yeah. You're a pony. With the flesh, the mane, and tail. We're just part of the architecture, right Scout?"

"Yet, if you chip us, will we not flake?" Scout said. "If you moisten us, do we not grow moist?"

"Charmy, just clean yourself up and---" Layla said.

"Thanks for the encouragement, but you are all forgetting one thing," Charming Thunder reassured.

"What?" Layla, Scout, and Ollie said.

"My mother; Radiant."

"Oh, yeah."

"Well have you ever asked her?" Scout asked.

"No. I was hoping to get a chance today. But I don't know how she would react."

"You could sneak out," Ollie suggested.

"Oh no. I'm not that kind of pony. I might get caught."

"Better to beg forgiveness than to ask permission," Scout said.

"Or for once wear a disguise," Ollie said. "What your mom doesn't know, you won't get in trouble."

"Ignorance is bliss." Ollie gives Scout a noogie on the head.

"Nopony wants to stay cooped up here forever," Layla added. Charming Thunder thinks for a moment, then a smile creeps across his face.

"You're right," Charming Thunder said with confidence. "I'll go." The Diamond Dogs cheer as Charming Thunder made his way to the stairs. "If she says yes, I'll get cleaned up. I'll stroll down those stairs. I'll march through the doors and--" He was stopped in front of Radiant who stood in the doorway with a smile.

The Diamond Dogs turned back to crystal as Radiant greeted, "Good morning, Charming."

"Good morning, mother."

"Who were you talking to?"

"My friends." Radiant taps one of the Diamond Dog statues on the head.

"And what are your 'friends' made of, Charming?"

"Crystal."

"And can they talk."

"No."

"You are so smart. Why are you so happy by the way?"

"I've been wondering about something since the Crystal Fair is today."

"I was too when I thought about you."

"Really and what's that?"

"I was hoping that you would like to come with me to the fair." A smile appeared on Charming Thunder's face as he got excited.

"I was going to ask you the same thing. And maybe if you mind, I can meet the princess of this kingdom."

"I can try. I happen to know the other three princesses as well if you get a chance." Charming Thunder walked with Radiant outside and stood at the balcony. "Sorry for getting you excited."

"It's okay. I just can't believe that I can get to go. It's my first time leaving the cathedral."

"Then you will get to experience what it's like out there. I remembered that time when I was young. Now you run along and clean up." Charming Thunder nodded and rushed back inside as Radiant took her leave. "And remember that this is your sanctuary."

"My sanctuary." Charming Thunder arrived back upstairs as he got himself cleaned up.

Charming Thunder

Safe behind these windows and these parapets of crystal
Gazing at the ponies down below me

Charming Thunder looked out of the window seeing Radiant leaving the cathedral.

All my life I watched them as I hid up here alone
Hungry for the histories they show me
All my life I memorize their faces
Knowing them as they will never know me
All my life I dreamed about passing a day
Not just above them
But part of them
And out there
Living in the sun
Given one day out there
All I ask is one
To hold forever
Out there
Where they all live unaware
What I’d give
What I'd dare
Just to live one day out there

Charming Thunder teleported to the balcony to get a good view of the town.

Out there among the millers and the weavers and their wives
Through the roofs and windows I can see them
Everyday they shout and scold and go about their lives
Heedless of the gift it is to be them
If I was in their skin
I’d treasure every moment

Out there
Strolling through the town
Taste Celestia’s morning out there
Like ordinary stallions
Who freely walk about there
Just one day and then
I swear I'll be content
With my share
Won’t resist
Won’t despair
Won’t be missed
I don’t care
I’ll now spend
One day
Out there

The Crystal Fair

A light blue pegasus stallion with a light brown mane and tail with a silver shield as his cutie mark and wearing a guard uniform and a necklace with a cross in it around his neck strolled through the town. He then stopped to consult his map and then looked around. "Huh, ya leave town for a couple of decades and they change everything," he said to himself. Two guards passed by him as he crumbles up the map and tosses it aside. "Excuse me, gentlemen. Would you point me the direction to--" He was ignored as the two crystal guards strolled past him. "I guess not." He continued to walk until he came across a unicorn mare with a beautiful flowing raven mane, a turquoise color for her body wearing olive green and lavender dress dancing for bits. A donkey was with her as the unicorn danced. The pegasus was entranced by her dancing and drops a few bits into the hat on the ground. Everything then came to a halt as two strange looking guards came up to the mare as she collected the hat with her magic.

"All right, gypsy, where'd ya get the money?" the first guard asked.

"For your information, I earned it," the mare replied.

"Gypsies don't earn money."

"You steal it," the second guard said.

"You'd know a lot about stealing!" The mare and the donkey fights the guards off and eventually escapes. When the guards began to chase, the stallion pretended to walk by then trip them with his hind hoof.

"Oh dear I'm sorry," the stallion said. The guards soon got up and lost the mare and looked at the pegasus.

"I'll teach you a lesson, peasant!" the first guard said as he drew his sword. The stallion drew his sword and pointed it at the guard.

"You were saying, lieutenant?"

"Oh, Silver Shield! At your service, sir!" The guards then saluted as the pegasus sheathed his sword.

"I know you have a lot on your mind right now, but do you two know any cathedrals around here?" The guards then nodded and cleared a path for Silver. As he walks, he sees some coins on the ground. He picks them up and drops them in the hat of an old stallion sitting on the street. The old stallion lowered his hood to reveal the same mare Silver saw and the donkey who looked at him curiously as he walked by. "Who was that guy?" the donkey asked.

"A new guard," the unicorn said.

"Why was he looking at you funny?"

"I don't know.

"Well he should know better than to mess with us!"

"Calm down, Punji."

Inside the cathedral, Silver entered the dungeon section and sees a gray unicorn stallion with a black mane and tail wearing a red scarf with a red crystal as his cutie mark. Whipping sounds can be heard as he entered. "Guard!" the stallion shouted.

"Sir?" the guard said.

"Ease up. Wait between lashes. Otherwise the older sting will dull him to the new."

"Yes, sir." The guard then leaves as the stallion turns to Silver.

"Ah, so this is the gallant Silver Shield, home from Canterlot royal duties."

"Reporting for duty as ordered, Sombra."

"Your service record precedes you, Silver. I expect nothing but the best from a royal guard of your calibre."

"And you shall have it, sir. I guarantee it."

"Yes. You know, my last captain of the guard was, um, a bit of a disappointment to me." A whip crack and a scream interrupts the two. Silver appeared to be startled at the sound. "Well, no matter. I'm sure you'll whip my men into shape."

"Uh, thank you, sir, uh, very, uh, trem--uh, a tremendous honor, sir." The two stallions now go to the balcony of the cathedral as the stallion talked.

"You come to the Crystal Empire in her darkest hour. It will take a firm hand to save the weak-minded from being so easily misled."

"Misled?"

"Look, Silver. Gypsies. The gypsies live outside the normal order. Their heathen ways inflame the peoples' lowest instincts, and they must be stopped." Silver was surprised at what he was hearing.

"I was summoned from Canterlot to capture fortune tellers and hoof readers?"

"But the real danger, Silver, is what you see before you. For a thousand years I have been taking care of the gypsies one by one. And yet, for all of my success, they have thrived. I believe they have a safe haven, within the walls of this very kingdom. A nest, if you will. They call it the Court of Miracles."

"What are we going to do about it then?" The stallion used his magic to grab a stone on the ground and then toss it then blast it to pieces. "You make your point quite vividly, sir."

"You know, I like you, Silver. Shall we?" The stallion begins to leave, when the crowd below begins to cheer loudly. "Oh, have you you ever attended a peasant festival, Silver?"

"Not recently."

"Then this should be quite an education for you. Come along."

Down below the doors of the cathedral, Charming Thunder exits and makes his way into the crowd. He looked up to the cathedral to see his Diamond Dog friends giving him a thumbs up and he proceeded through the crowd as a group came of ponies came walking.

Crystal Ponies

Come one, come all
Leave your homes and close your shops
Renew the spirit of love and unity
Come one, come all
Close the churches and the schools
It’s the day for a tradition
Come and join the Crystal....

Pinkie Pie comes through the crowd and fires her party cannon.

Pinkie Pie

Fair!!!

Once a year they throw a party here in the kingdom
Once a year they make this kingdom sparkle
Everypony is having fun at this special occasion
Once again it’s the Crystal Fair day

Charming Thunder continued his way through the crowd to explore when Pinkie noticed him.

It’s the day the love in us gets released
It’s the day everypony is united
Everything is fun at the Crystal Fair

Charming Thunder then ended up dancing with Pinkie a little bit as he checked out the games the fair had set up.

Crystal Ponies

Crystal Fair

Pinkie Pie

Everything is upsy daisy

Crystal Ponies

Crystal Fair

Pinkie Pie

Everypony is acting crazy
Jesters juggling and crystal flugelhorns being played
That’s the way of the Crystal Fair

Charming Thunder got twirled and shoved away through a curtain and comes crashing into the dressing tent of a unicorn mare along with Punji. "Hey!" the mare said. "Are you alright?"

"Didn't mean to barge in here unannounced," Charming Thunder said as he got dizzy. "I'm sorry."

"You're not hurt, are you? Here, here, let's see." Punji seemed jumpy at the red unicorn as the mare helped Charming Thunder up. "There. See, no harm done. Just try to be a little more careful."

"I will." Charming Thunder stepped outside of the tent to return to the celebration.

Crystal Ponies

Crystal Fair

Pinkie & Crystal Ponies

Beat the drums and blow the trumpets

Crystal Ponies

Crystal Fair

Charming Thunder wanders through the crowd as he saw a jester being dunked by a little filly when the ball was thrown.

Pinkie Pie & Crystal Ponies

Join the ponies from around the world
For the most magical celebration

Silver and some guards escort Sombra through the crowd as they made their way to the Sombra’s spot to sit. The princesses along with Radiant also arrive to the fair on top of the balcony of the castle. Radiant looked at the crowd for Charming Thunder, but was nowhere to be seen.

Pinkie Pie

Let light within us all
Power the Crystal Heart

Pinkie Pie & Crystal Ponies

Only at the Crystal Fair

Punjin comes up to the stage and gets everybody’s attention with a shout.

Punjin

Come one, come all!
Hurry, hurry here's your chance
See the mystery and romance
Come one, come all!
See the finest mare in the empire

Charming Thunder was pushed up to the front of the stage by Punjin as he also leapt over him.

Make an entrance to entrance
Danse la Flowing Scarf
Dance!

After Punjin’s last word, he disappears in a puff of smoke and Flowing Scarf appears in her bright orange dress in his place performing a sultry dance. Sombra who is not amused by this dance looked at Silver and said, “Look at that disgusting display.”

“Yes, sir,” Silver said, enthusiastically. Flowing Scarf pulls out a rainbow handkerchief and wraps it around Sombra’s neck playfully, using it to pull him closer. She moves in to kiss him, but jumps away at the last moment. Sombra used his magic to yank the handkerchief from his head.

“Woo-hoo!” Punjin cheered as he watched backstage. “That’s my owner! Dance girl!” Flowing Scarf continues her dance and ends it when she did a split and winked at Charming Thunder. He blushed as he looked away with a smile. The audience applauded as she got up and took a bow.

It was then that Rarity took the stage as she announced, “And now, mares and gentlecolts, the piece de resistance!”

Rarity

Here it is, the moment you've been waiting for
Here it is, you know exactly what's in store
Now's the time we cheer until our sides get sore
Now's the time we crown the Crystal Prince

“You all remember last year's prince,” Rarity said as she pointed to the crowned crystal pony in the audience.

So show us that you are all full of crystal pride
Show us you are better skilled than a diamond dog

“Hey!!” Ollie said as he watched from above the cathedral.

For the stallion who shows the most spirit will get chosen as the next prince
Why?

Crystal Ponies

Crystal Fair

Charming Thunder was helped up by Flowing Scarf as he volunteered to be voted for the most pride in the kingdom. More ponies came up and stood in a line. Radiant saw Charming Thunder go up on stage and came closer to the castle balcony to get a closer look with a smile.

Rarity

Handsome folks, forget your shyness

Crystal Ponies

Crystal Fair

Rarity

You could soon be called ‘Your highness’

Crystal Ponies

Put your prideful features on display

Rarity and Crystal Ponies

Be the prince of this year’s Crystal Fair

Rarity works her way down the line examining the stallions. She then looked at Charming Thunder and smiled and pointed at him. “You,” she said. “You are full of pride.”

“He’s no Crystal pony,” a stallion from the crowd said.

“It’s the bell ringer of the cathedral; Charming Thunder,” a mare from the crowd added. Charming Thunder looked around a little nervous as the other stallions participating left the stage. Even Sombra was surprised for some reason.

“Mares and gentlecolts, let’s not panic,” Rarity reassured. “We asked for the most prideful pony in the kingdom and here he is.” Rarity then levitates a crown and crowns him the Crystal Prince. “Charming Thunder, the unicorn of the Crystal Empire.” Upon hearing Rarity, the crowd once again grows festive and cheered. Pinkie appeared out of nowhere and fired her party cannon in celebration.

Pinkie Pie

Everypony

Crystal Ponies

Once a year we throw a party here in town

Pinkie Pie

Hail to the prince

Crystal Ponies

Once a year they make this kingdom sparkle

Pinkie Pie

Oh, what a prince

Crystal Ponies

Once a year the most prideful will wear a crown

Pinkie Pie

Mares, give a kiss

Charming Thunder gets kissed on both of his cheeks from two crystal mares as he proceeded through the crowd of ponies.

Crystal Ponies

Once a year at the Crystal Fair

Pinkie Pie

We’ve never had a prince like this

Pinkie Pie and Crystal Ponies

And it's the day we do the things that we agree
On the other three hundred and sixty-four
Once a year we love to drop in
Where we never stop having fun
And a chance to see the Crystal Heart
And pick a prince who'll put the top
In the Crystal Fair
Crystal Fair
Cheerful and fun, upsy daisy, Crystal Fair

The Diamond Dogs up top at the cathedral whooped and cheered for Charming Thunder. Even his mother cheered from the balcony as the princesses took their leave for a brief moment except for Cadence who stood next to Radiant with a smile. "So that's your kid?" she asked.

"Yup," Radiant said. "And it's his first time out here."

"You should introduce me to him sometimes. I'm sure he wouldn't mind that." Cadence then took her leave as Radiant stayed and continued to cheer for her son. The crowd chanted his name as flowers were thrown. Charming Thunder looked at the crowd with a smile and waved at everyone around him as he stood on stage. Sombra looked at two of his guards in a distance and nodded at him as they held tomatoes in their hooves. One of the guards threw a tomato at Charming Thunder, hitting him square in the face. The crowd then went quiet. More guards then threw tomatoes at him and soon all kinds for produce. He tried to leave but a lasso grabbed him and tied him to the stage. Radiant rushed off the balcony and prepared to leave the castle hoping to save him. Flowing Scarf and Punji popped out of the tent to see the public humiliation going on.

"Unbelievable!" Punji said. "One minute they love him and next thing we know they're treating him like a circus freak! I'll teach those ponies a lesson!"

Silver had enough as he turned to Sombra and said, "Request permission to stop this cruelty."

"In a moment, Silver," Sombra said. "I am starting to like this moment." As soon as he said this, the crowd gasps and goes silent. Silver and Sombra look up to the stage and see Flowing Scarf and Punji ascending the steps. Radiant came outside on time to see that he is being helped by someone.

Flowing Scarf kneels next to Charming Thunder and said, "Don't be afraid. I'm sorry. This wasn't supposed to happen." She then used her magic to levitate a handkerchief to wipe the tomatoes and other food produce off of his cheek. Sombra stood up from his seat in anger.

"You!" Sombra shouted. "Gypsy girl! Get down at once!"

"Yes, sir. Just as soon as I free this poor pony."

"I forbid it!" Flowing Scarf ignored Sombra and used her magic to free Charming Thunder from the ropes. "How dare you defy me!"

"You mistreat this poor boy the same way you mistreat my people. You speak of justice, yet you are cruel to those most in need of your help."

"Silence!"

"JUSTICE!!!"

"Yeah!!" Punji shouted. "What she said." Flowing Scarf and Punji help Charming Thunder up as Radiant watched.

"Mark my words, gypsy," Sombra said. "You will pay for this insolence."

"Then maybe we could've crowned a king of fools. Because the real fool I see is you!" Sombra had enough and turned to Silver.

"Silver Shield, arrest her." Silver motions the guards to move in and arrest. The guards surround the stage as they approach through the crowd.

"Now, let's see." Flowing Scarf began to count ten guards approaching. "So there's ten of you and two of us. What's a poor girl to do?" She begins to cry, then disappears in an explosion of smoke.

"Witchcraft!"

"Oh, boys!" Punji shouted. "Over here!" Eventually, Punji and Flowing Scarf leads the guards on a wild chase. While they were at it, they jump on top of the crowd, which carries them away to safety. Two guards attempt the same move, and the crowd quickly moves away. She grabs a helmet from one of the guards, and throws it like a frisbee. It hits three guards and knocks them out, before almost chopping Silver's head off.

"What a mare!" Silver said. Two guards chased Flowing Scarf and Punji as they jumped over Sombra's stand and someone tossed a pole for the guards to hold. They then sliced through Sombra's stand as Sombra ducked for cover. Flowing Scarf and Punji ascend to the top of a stand.

"So long suckers!" Punji shouted before him and Flowing Scarf promptly disappear in an instance.

Sombra got out of the cloth then turned to Silver who approached him and ordered, "Find her. I want her alive."

"Yes, sir," Silver said as he turned to the guards who started to search for the gypsy. "Seal off the area, men. Find the gypsy girl and do not harm her." Radiant approached Charming Thunder on stage who looked upset.

"I'm sorry, mother," Charming Thunder whispered. "I never should've left the cathedral." Charming Thunder hangs his head low as Radiant helped him get home to the cathedral. They go inside as Radiant used her magic to slowly close the door behind them.

The Sanctuary

Silver and the guards searched for Flowing Scarf in the streets of the kingdom. Flowing Scarf is disguised again with Punji as an old pony. She sneaks into the the cathedral as Silver sees her and recognizes her. floing Scarf removed the disguise and looked around the cathedral. She was amazed with the interior as Silver entered alone. As he comes up behind her, she turns and grabs his sword and forces him to the floor with the blade pointed at his chin. "You!" Flowing Scarf said.

"Easy, easy--I just shaved this morning," Silver said.

"Oh, really?" Punji asked, sarcastically. "You missed a spot."

"All right, all right. Just calm down. Just give me a chance to apologize."

"For what?" Flowing Scarf asked as she lets her guard down for a split second. Silver then grabbed the sword and pointed it at her.

"That for example."

"You sneaky son of a---" Punji said.

"Ah, ah, ah! Watch it--you're in a church."

"Are you always this charming, or am I just lucky?" Flowing Scarf asked as she grabbed the staff with candles on top of it with her magic and swings it at Silver, who blocks the strike with his sword.

"Candlelight...privacy...music. Can't think of a better place for hand-to-hand combat!" Flowing Scarf continues to strike as Silver blocks with his sword. "You fight as well as a stallion."

"Funny. I was going to say the same thing about you."

"That's hitting a little below the belt, don't you think?"

"No. This is." Flowing Scarf goes for a jab attack, but Silver blocked it on time. He then quickly got hit in the face by the other end of the staff. He shook it off.

"Touche!" Punjin hits Silver in the chest. "Didn't know you had a kid."

"Well, Punji doesn't take kindly to soldiers."

"You got that right," Punji said.

"Eh, I noticed. Permit me. I'm Silver Knight. And you are?"

"Is this what you call an interrogation?" Silver sheaths his sword.

"It's called an introduction."

"You're not going to arrest us?"

"Not as long as you're in here. I can't."

"You're not at all like the other soldiers." Flowing Scarf puts the staff back into place as Punji stood down.

"Thank you."

"So, if you're not going to arrest me, what do you want?"

"I'd settle for your name."

"Flowing Scarf."

"It's beautiful." Punji looked at Flowing Scarf then back at Silver. "Much better than Silver, anyway." Flowing Scarf and Silver gaze into each other's eyes when Sombra and some guards entered the cathedral.

"Good work, Silver," Sombra said. "Now arrest her."

Punji hid behind Flowing Scarf in fear as Silver looked back at Flowing Scarf and whispered, "Claim sanctuary. Say it."

"You tricked me," Flowing Scarf said.

"I'm waiting, Silver," Sombra said.

"I'm sorry, sir. She claims sanctuary. There's nothing I can do."

"Then drag her outside at---"

"You will not touch her," Radiant said as she stood next to Flowing Scarf. "Don't worry. Sombra has learned years ago to respect the sanctity of the cathedral." Sombra and the other guards turned to leave, but he hid behind a pillar and doubles back. Radiant walks Silver out as Punji followed to make sure nothing happens. Sombra then came from behind and grabs her with his magic.

"You think you've outwitted me, but I am a patient stallion, and gypsies don't do well inside stone walls," Sombra said. He then breathes deeply, smelling Flowing Scarf's mane.

"What are you doing?" Flowing Scarf demanded as she struggled to break free.

"I was just imagining a chain around that beautiful neck." Flowing Scarf broke free from Sombra's magic and took a step back.

"I know what you were imagining."

"Such a clever witch. So typical of your kind, to twist the truth to cloud the mind with unholy thoughts. Well, no matter." Sombra begins to leave. "You've chosen a magnificent prison, but it is a prison nonetheless. Set one foot outside, and you're mine!" Sombra closed the door with his magic as Flowing Scarf rushed to another door only to find his guards outside.

"New orders," the guard said. "Post a guard at every door." Flowing Scarf slammed the door and sat down as Punji came back to her.

"One thing, Punji--if that stallion thinks he can keep us here, he's wrong."

"Don't act rashly, Miss Scarf," a mare said as she lit the candles with her magic. "You created quite a stir at the fair. It would be unwise to arouse the stallion's anger further."

"You saw what he allowed to happen out there, letting the crowd torture that poor boy. I thought if just one person could stand up to him, then..." Flowing Scarf sighed and turned to the mare. "What do they have against people who are different, anyway?"

"You can't right all the wrongs in this kingdom by yourself."

"No one out there's going to help, that's for sure."

"Perhaps there is somepony here who can." The mare leaves Flowing Scarf and Punji as they walked around the cathedral.

Flowing Scarf

I don't know if you hear me
or if you're even there.
Will you even listen
to this gypsy’s prayer?
They say that I am nothing
and I might be true
Still I wonder,
are you too feeling blue

Charming Thunder sat at the bell tower upset when he heard a familiar voice coming from below the cathedral. He teleports to investigate.

Chorus

Help us Celestia,
We are in pain
Our cries have al-
ways gone in vain

Help all my people
We turn to you
Help us Celestia
It's all up to you

Charming Thunder arrived at the second floor of the cathedral and looks down to see Flowing Scarf and Punji wandering through the cathedral.

Background Ponies

I want some wealth, I want some fame
I want everypony here to know my name.
I want true love, and to be blessed
I know you'll easily help me and all the rest

Flowing Scarf

I want nothing
I will be fine
But I know lots
Low on the line

Charming Thunder walked down the stairs to get a closer look as he hid behind a pillar.

Help all my people
They need salvation
Never forget
Our sad pony nation

Help us Celestia
Our pony nation

Charming Thunder smiled when a pony spotted him. “You!” the pony said. “Unicorn! What are you doing down here!?!” Charming Thunder jumps and knocks over a candle staff which made Flowing Scarf and Punji look up at him and see him running away to the staircase. “Haven't you caused enough trouble already?” Flowing Scarf and Punji then gave chase.

“Wait!” Flowing Scarf said. “I want to talk to you.” Charming Thunder came out of the top of the staircase, followed by Flowing Scarf and Punji. The Diamond Dogs watched from above.

“Look!” Layla said. “He's got a friend with him.”

“Yeah, maybe today wasn't a total loss after all,” Ollie said.

“A vision of loveliness,” Scout added.

“The one in the dress ain't bad either.” The Diamond Dogs then came to greet Charming Thunder as he entered the room. “Charmy!”

“Congratulations!”

“Got the girls chasing you already!”

“Well actually I---” Charming Thunder said before he was interrupted.

“You mustn't run too fast, or she'll get away!” Scout said.

“Yes, ah, ah, ah, I know. That's what---”

“Give her some slack, then reel her in, then give her some slack, then reel her in, then give her some slack---” Layla bonks Ollie on the head to make him stop talking.

“Knock it off, Ollie,” Layla said. “She’s a mare, not a mackerel.” The Diamond Dogs turn back to crystal as Flowing Scarf entered with Punji.

“Here you are,” Flowing Scarf said.

“We were afraid that we lost ya,” Punji said.

“Yes,” Charming Thunder said. “Um, well, I uh, I have chores to do. It was, uh, nice...seeing...you...again.” He then started to run for it again.

“No, wait!!” Flowing Scarf said.

“Here we go again,” Punji said as he followed Flowing Scarf.

“I'm really sorry about this afternoon. I had no idea who you were. I would never in my life had...pulled...you...up on the...stage.” Flowing Scarf examined the room as Charming Thunder hides from her as she admired the crystal model of the Crystal Empire

“Woah,” Punji said, amazed.

“What is this place?”

“This is where I live,” Charming Thunder said.

“Did you make all these things yourself?”

“Most of them.”

“This is beautiful. If I could do this, you wouldn't find me dancing in the streets for coins.”

“But you’re a wonderful dancer.”

“Well, it keeps bread on the table, anyway.”

“What’s this?” Punji asked as he reached for a cloth covering something.

“Oh, no, please oh, I'm not finished I still have to color them.

Flowing Scarf looked surprised and said, “The blacksmith, and the baker.” Punji looked curiously at the model that looked a lot like the spa and examined it. “You're a surprising person, Charming. Not to mention a lucky pony. All this room to yourself.”

“Well, it's not just me. There's the gargoyles, and of course the bells. Would you like to see them?”

“Yes, of course. Wouldn't we, Punji?” Punji looked up after she looked at the model of the castle.

“Would I ever,” Punji said.

“Follow me,” Charming Thunder said. “I'll introduce you.” Flowing Scarf and Punji followed Charming Thunder up into the bell tower.

“Never knew there were so many,” Flowing Scarf said, amazed.

“That's Little Sophia, and Jean Marie, Ann Marie, and Louise Marie. Triplets, you know.” Flowing Scarf walked up to a bell as big as a dragon.

“And who’s this?”

“Big Marie.” Flowing Scarf shouted a hello under the bell and the bell echoes. “She likes you. Would you like to see more?”

“We’d love to.”

“Good. I’ve saved the best for last.” The three then proceeded outside to a beautiful view of the Crystal Empire and the castle.

“What a view,” Punji said.

“I bet the princess herself doesn’t have a view like this. I could stay up here forever.”

“You could you know,” Charming Thunder said.

“No, I couldn’t.”

“Oh, yes, you have sanctuary.”

“But not freedom,” Punji added.

“Gypsies don’t do well inside crystal walls,” Flowing Scarf said.

“But I heard that they’re….evil,” Charming Thunder said.

“Who told you that?”

“I heard from this pony named Sombra many times during my stay here. But you’re kind, good, and---”

“A gypsy. And maybe Sombra is wrong about me.” The three then looked at over the edge of the cathedral to the ground level.

“You helped me. Now, I will help you two.”

“But there's no way out. There's soldiers at every door.”

“Who said anything about using a door when we have magic?”

“Are you saying we climb down?”

“Sure. You hold on to him and follow my lead.” Flowing Scarf thought for a moment and nodded.

“Okay. Grab on, Punji.” Punji did what Flowing Scarf said and held on tight. They then started to use their magic to teleport on top of each gargoyle.

“The trick is not to look down.” Punji looked down then held on tight to Flowing Scarf as he gasped.

“Have you done this before with your magic?” Punji asked.

“No.” The three continued to teleport until they reached to the top of the slanted roof.

“You are quite talented,” Flowing Scarf said.

“Thank you---” Charming Thunder was cut off when the tile they're on breaks free and they begin to slide down the roof as if they were on a sled. They're able to jump off their sled just before it goes sailing off into the air. It lands a few blocks away. The guards on the ground hear the crash and go off to investigate. As a guard passes by, the three hid as a part of the statue. When the coast was clear, they sighed with relief. “I hope I didn't scare you.”

“Not for an instant.”

“I’m not doing this again,” Punji said with a groan.

“I’ll never forget you, Flowing Scarf.”

“Come with me.”

“What?”

“To the Court of Miracles. Leave this place.”

“Oh, no. I'm never going back out there again. You saw what happened to me today. No. This is where I belong.”

“Alright, then I'll come to see you.”

“What? Here? But, the soldiers, and Sombra, and---”

“I’ll come after sunset.”

“At sunset, I ring the evening mass, and after that, I clean some of the bells, and then I ring the vespers, and---” Charming Thunder was interrupted when he was pecked on the cheek by Flowing Scarf. “Whatever’s good for you.”

Flowing Scarf levitates a talisman off her neck and gives it to Charming Thunder as she said, “If you ever need sanctuary, this will show you the way.”

“But how?”

“Just remember: When you wear this woven band, you hold the city in your hand.”

“Uh, guys,” Punji said as he pointed to an incoming light from approaching guards.

“Hurry!” Charming Thunder said. “You must go!” Flowing Scarf teleports down to the ground and runs off into the dark as Charming Thunder watched with a smile. He then teleports back up to his room and then came face to face with Silver Knight.

“Hi there,” Silver greeted. “I'm looking for the gypsy girl. Have you seen her?” Charming Thunder gets very angry at the sight of a guard and takes a swing. “Easy!”

“No soldiers! Sanctuary! Get out!”

“Wait! All I wanted was to---”

“Go!!!”

“I mean her no harm.”

“GO!!!!” Charming Thunder levitates a torch and begins swinging it at Silver. Silver backs off as Charming Thunder continued to swing. He finally draws his sword and swings, pinning the torch against the wall. Charming Thunder grabs Silver by the chest.

“You tell her from me, I didn't mean to trap her here, but it was the only way to save her life. Will you tell her that?” No response from Charming Thunder. “Will you?”

“If you go. Now!”

“I'll go. Now, will you put me down, please?” Charming Thunder releases Silver and lets him leave. He then turns back to Charming Thunder. “Oh. And one more thing. Tell Flowing Scarf that she is very lucky.”

“Why?”

“To have a friend like you.” Silver takes his leave as Charming Thunder puts the torch back where it belongs. He then returns to his room as the Diamond Dogs followed from behind.

“You ejected that tin-plated baboon with great panache!” Scout said.

“The nerve of him,” Ollie said. “Snooping around here trying to steal your mare.”

“My mare?” Charming Thunder asked.

“Flowing Scarf,” Layla said. “Dark mane, works with a donkey. Remember?”

“Boy, I do,” Ollie said. “Way to go, loverboy!”

“Loverboy!?!” Charming Thunder said as he had a blush on his face. “Oh, no, no.”

“Oh, don't be so modest,” Layla said.

“Look. I appreciate what you're all trying to do, but let's not fool ourselves. Most prideful pony in the Crystal Empire. Remember?” He then gazes out of the window with a smile. “I don’t think I’m her type.”

Charming Thunder

So many times out there
I’ve seen a happy pair
Of lovers walking in the night
They have a sort of glow around them
It almost looked like Celestia’s light

I knew I’d never know
That warm and loving glow
Though I might wish with all my might
No stars ever shine upon my face
As it was bright as Celestia’s light

Layla handed a piece of crystal to Charming Thunder as he used his magic to make a model of Flowing Scarf.

But suddenly somepony has smiled at me
And kissed my cheek without a trace of fright

I dare to dream that she might even care for me
And as I ring the bells tonight
My cold dark home seems so bright
I swear it must be Celestia’s light

Charming Thunder used his magic to pull a rope to ring the bells after he finished making the model of Flowing Scarf.

In the bedchamber, Sombra looked out of the window straight towards the castle of the Crystal Empire as he thought of Flowing Scarf.

Sombra

O Princess Celestia,
you know I'm a misguided king
and I try to get myself on track

O Princess Celestia,
you know I try to show them all
that the perfect Crystal king is back

But tell me Celestia,
why I see her standing there
why her emerald eyes burn up my soul.
She's right there, everywhere
I'm caught up in her precious mane
it's making me starting to lose control

The pain- Oh!
Inferno!
It brings me so much pain!
She's such a fire
it's driving me insane!

The walls of the room suddenly become silhouettes of the former villains of Equestria as Sombra fell to the ground.

It's all my fault!

Villains

(It's not your fault!)

Sombra

I can't go on!

Villains

(You can go on)

Sombra

It was that Flowing Scarf
the mare who sparked the flame!

It's all my fault!

Villains

(It's not your fault)

Sombra

This was unplanned!

Villains

(It was unplanned!)

Sombra

She makes Lord Tirek so much
stronger than a mare

So help me Celestia!
Don't let this gypsy take me down
Don't let her make me suffer anymore
Destroy Flowing Scarf!
And let her go to Tartarus
Or else let her be mine for evermore!

A knock was heard at the door and a guard entered the room. “Uh, Sombra?” the guard said.

“What is it?” Sombra asked.

“The gypsy’s gone. She escaped.”

“What? Well go find her!” The guard exits the room. “I'll have her even if I have to destroy the Crystal Empire again!”

Inferno!
The pain-Oh!
Flowing Scarf you're to blame!
Choose me or the Inferno!
Love me or you will pay!!!!!

Celestia save her

Villains

(Please save her)

Sombra

Celestia save me

Villains

(Celestia save him)

Sombra

That mare will love me or
she will die!!!

Author's Note

"Celestia Help Us" and "Inferno" written by grl6p.

The Search

The next morning, Sombra exited his room exhausted as Silver stood waiting for him. "Morning, sir," he said as Sombra stretched his legs. "You feeling alright?"

"I had a little trouble with sleeping," Sombra said.

"I see. Your orders, sir?"

"Find the gypsy girl."

Soldiers ransacked a pony's home and eventually found a group of gypsies hidden in a trap door. The soldiers then lined them up outside in front of Sombra who levitated a bag full of coins. "Forty bits for the gypsy Flowing Scarf," Sombra said. There were no takers and he turned to the guards. "Lock them up!" They continued their search as guards brought over more gypsies from other houses and from hiding. "Fifty bits for the gypsy Flowing Scarf." Once again there were no takers. "Take them away!"

Sombra's search continued as he and the guards interrogate a pony who lived in a windmill home. Flowing Scarf, who was disguised as an old pony with Punji, arrived to the scene behind the crowd as Sombra entered the house. "We found this gypsy talisman on your property," Sombra said. "Have you been harbouring gypsies?"

"Our home is always open to the weary traveler," the miller pony said. "Have mercy, sir."

"I am placing you and your family under house arrest until I get to the bottom of this. If what you say is true, you are innocent and you have nothing to fear."

"But we are innocent, I assure you! We know nothing of these gypsies!" Sombra closed the door and uses his magic to make a lock on the door and turns to Silver.

"Burn it."

"What!?" Silver said. Sombra levitated a torch from a soldier's hoof and gives it to Silver.

"Until it smolders. These people are traitors and must be made examples of."

"With all due respect, sir, I was not trained to murder the innocent."

"But you were trained to follow orders." Silver takes the torch and douses it in a bucket of water.

"You insolent coward." Sombra levitates another torch and touches the flame to the windmill. The entire structure is quickly engulfed in flame. Silver crashes through the window and brings the family outside to safety. As the building continues to burn, guards tackle Silver to the ground. "The sentence for insubordination is death. Such a pity that you threw away a promising career."

"Consider it my highest honor, Sombra." Sombra levitates a spear and readies a strike when a rock suddenly hits Sombra in the face and forced him to drop the spear. This gave Silver a chance to take out the guards and make a run for it. As he made a run for it, Sombra quickly got up and shot him with dark magic hitting him straight in the shoulder which caused him to collapse to the ground unconscious. Flowing Scarf and Punji rushed to Silver as she removed her disguise. She tried to get him up, but the help was cut short when Sombra and a couple of guards approached her. Sombra's left eye appeared to be green and have a purple mist emanating from them.

"So you finally shown yourself, Flowing Scarf."

"Couldn't stand you killing an innocent pony," Flowing Scarf said. Punji growled as he readied himself for a fight. "But you finally have shown your true purpose." Sombra grinned as he used his magic to change into his silver armor on his legs and neck, a crown with horn-like points on his head, and a red cape that covers his flank.

"Right you are, gypsy girl." Punji hid behind Flowing Scarf in fear of Sombra's appearance. "And I offer you a chance to live if you turn yourself in." Sombra walked up to Flowing Scarf and caressed her mane. "You might make a good queen when I rule the Crystal Empire again." Flowing Scarf suddenly shoved Sombra's hoof away and slapped him straight in the face.

"I will never be with a monster like you."

"He's trying to seduce you?!" Punji said. "I thought this was a kids movie!" Sombra growled as he gestured the guards to move towards Flowing Scarf. She however was quick enough to teleports with Silver and Punji away from Sombra and his guards. Sombra stomped his hoof in anger and looked at one of the guards as he reverted back to his normal form.

"Find the girl!" Sombra ordered. "If you have to burn the city to the ground, so be it!" As Sombra and the guards left the burning windmill, Flowing Scarf helped carry Silver to safety back to town and thought of a place for him to hide.

One of Sombra's guards approached Sombra and reported, "Sir! We've looked everywhere, and still no sign of the gypsy girl."

"I had the entire cathedral surrounded, guards at every door," Sombra said. "There was no way she could have escaped." He then thought of a solution of how she got out. "Unless..." He looks up to the cathedral's bell tower.

At the top of the tower, the Diamond Dogs looked out of the window to see the kingdom in flames. "Oh, it doesn't look good," Layla said with worry.

"And the princess is not doing anything about it," Scout added. "It's hopeless. Absolutely hopeless."

Ollie was in the back playing cards with a bird as he said, "You're telling me! I'm losing to a bird!"

"Oh, that poor gypsy girl. I'm beginning to fear the worst."

"I know, but, now, don't you say anything to upset Charming," Layla said. "He's worried enough already."

"Yeah, you're right," Ollie said. "We'd better lighten up." Scout hushed the two as he heard footsteps approaching.

"Here he comes," Scout said.

"Now just stay calm," Layla said.

"Not a word."

"Easy does it," Ollie said.

"Stone faced." Charming Thunder stood next to Scout as he looked out of the window.

"Any sign of her?" Charming Thunder asked as Scout tried to stay calm until he snapped.

"Oh, it's a lost cause! She could be anywhere! In the stocks, in the dungeon, on the rack!" Scout begins to cry.

"Nice work, Scout," Layla said.

"No, he's right. What are we going to do?"

"What are you guys talking about?" Ollie said as he shuffled a deck of cards. "If I know Flowing Scarf, she's three steps ahead of Sombra, and well out of harms way."

"Do you really think so?"

"Hey, when things cool off, she'll be back. You'll see."

"What makes you so sure?"

"Because she likes you," Layla said. "We always said you were the cute one."

"I thought I was the cute one," Ollie said.

"No, you're the fat, stupid one with the big mouth!"

"What are you saying exactly?"

"Take it from us, Charmy. You've got nothing to worry about."

"Yeah, you're irresistible." Scout chuckled.

"Royal guards are certainly aren't her type," Scout said.

"And those guys are a dime a dozen. But you? You're one of a kind. Look..."

Ollie

The Crystal Empire, the city of love
Is glowing this evening
True, that’s because it’s in flames
But still, there’s hope
Somewhere out there in the night
Her heart is also bright
And I know the stallion she just might be burning for

A stallion like you
She’s never known, kid
A stallion like you
A mare does not meet every day
You’ve got the looks
That’s all your own, kid
Could there be two?

Scout and Layla

Like you?

Ollie, Scout, and Layla

No way!

Ollie

Those other stallions
That she could tangle with
All look the same
From every boring point of view
You're a surprise
From every angle
Mon Dieu above
She's gotta love
A stallion like you

Scout

A stallion like you
Gets all the credit
Because it's true
You've got a certain something more

Layla

You see that face
You don't forget it

Sout and Layla

Want something new?

Ollie

That's you

Ollie, Layla, and Scout

For sure!

Layla

We all have gaped
At some of the statues

Scout

But then we crave a meal
More nourishing to chew

Ollie

And since you’re not the only
Unicorn in this kingdom

Ollie, Layla, and Scout

No question of
She's gotta love
A stallion like you!

Layla

Call me a hopeless romantic
But Charmy, I feel it

Scout

She wants you so
Any moment she'll walk through that door

Ollie, Layla, and Scout

For
A stallion so swell
(A stallion like you)
With all you bring her
(I tell you, Charmy)
A fool could tell
(There never was)
It's why she fell
For you-know-who
You ring the bell
You're the bell ringer
When she wants ooh-la-la
Then she wants you la-la
She will discover, stallion
You're one heck of a stallion
Who wouldn't love
A stallion like you?

Ollie

You got a lot
The rest have not
She's gotta love
A stallion like you!

A door suddenly opened from downstairs as the Diamond Dogs turned to crystal and Flowing Scarf entered. "Charming Thunder?" she said.

"Flowing Scarf?" Charming Thunder asked as he walked to the bottom of the stairs happy to see Flowing Scarf and hugged her. "Flowing Scarf! You're all right! I knew you'd come back."

"You've done so much for me already, my friend, but I must ask your help one more time."

"Yes, anything." Punji then came in with the body of Silver.

"This is Silver. He's wounded, and a fugitive like me. He can't go on much longer. I knew he'd be safe here. Please, can you hide him?" Charming Thunder gestured to follow him to his bedroom and Punji places Silver gently on the ground. Silver moans and finally came to.

"Flowing Scarf...." Silver said before he was hushed by Flowing Scarf.

"You'll hide here until you're strong enough to move." Flowing Scarf then levitated a flask of water.

"Great. I could use a drink." Flowing Scarf then pours the water on the wound on Silver as he cries in pain.

"Feels like fresh wine from Canterlot. Not a good year though." Flowing Scarf used a rag to clean the womb.

"That family owes you their lives. You're either the single bravest royal guard I've ever seen, or the craziest."

"Its ex-royal guard now, remember? Why is it, whenever we meet, I end up bleeding?"

"You're lucky. Sombra almost shot your heart."

"I'm not so sure it didn't." Flowing Scarf and Silver move closer and closer, then kiss. Charming Thunder however turned away feeling sad.

Charming Thunder

I knew I’d never know
That warm and loving glow
Though I might wish with all my might
No stars ever shine upon my face
As it was bright as Celestia’s light

Charming Thunder sat down on the floor as tears fell.

"We've got company," Punji shouted. Charming Thunder got up and looked out of the window to see Radiant approaching.

"My mother is coming," Charming Thunder said. "You must leave. Quick, follow me! Go down the south tower steps."

"Be careful, my friend," Flowing Scarf said. "Promise you won't let anything happen to him."

"I promise."

"Thank you." Flowing Scarf and Punji took their leave as Charming Thunder rushed back upstairs and dragged Silver on the floor and placed him underneath the table. He hurriedly tries to set his models straight as Radiant entered the room. He feigns in surprise.

"Oh, mother, I didn't think that you would be coming."

"I'm never to busy to share a meal with you, son," Radiant said. "I brought a little treat for you." Charming Thunder quickly levitated some plates as he was flustered as some of the plates broke. Radiant then placed a bunch of grapes on Charming Thunder's plate with confusion in her eye. "Is something troubling you, Charming?"

"No. Why?"

"I think that we are in danger. Sombra has taken things to far. His obsession with this Flowing Scarf is making him burn this kingdom." One of the grapes falls to the floor, near Silver. Charming Thunder levitates the grape with caution and places it aside on his plate. "Are you hiding something from me?"

"Oh no, mother. There's nothing---"

"Then why are you not eating?" Charming Thunder quickly gobbles a few grapes.

"It's very good. Thank you." Silver moans as Charming Thunder did the same as he enjoyed the food. Silver sighs louder before Charming Thunder was quick enough to kick him and knocks him out, then pretends to cough. "Seeds." Radiant looked at the models and then back at her son.

"What's going on?"

"Nothing, mom. Why?" Radiant then noticed a model of Flowing Scarf and levitates it to examine it.

"Isn't this one new? It looks good and looks very much like Flowing Scarf." Charming Thunder gulped as his mother's suspicions were correct. "You helped her escape, did you?" Charming Thunder sighed in defeat and looked down.

"Yes, but she was kind to me, mother."

"It's not your fault, my son. I know you are trying to protect her, but the kingdom is now burning because of you. Sombra has his suspicions about us when I saw him in the cathedral that day. I am trying to protect you."

"Protect me? Protect me from what?"

"Your father; Sombra." Radiant covered her mouth as she never wanted to say it. Charming Thunder was shocked at what he was hearing and took a step back.

"But you said---"

"I know what I said." Radiant took a moment to recompose herself. "What's going on here really?" Charming Thunder didn't respond and turned away. "Come on. You can tell me." He then turned back around to look at his mother.

"Keep this between us." Radiant then nodded as Charming Thunder moved the cloth from the table to reveal Silver who is regaining consciousness. "You may recognize him as he was with....my father. But he was wounded and I promised Flowing Scarf to hide him here from him." Silver got out from under the table and looked at Charming Thunder.

"We need to find the Court of Miracles," Silver said. "If Sombra gets there first, it will be a massacre. He knows where they are." Charming Thunder then realized something and took out the talisman from the cabinet.

"Flowing Scarf did say that this would help us find her, Silver."

"Good, good, good. Great. What is it."

"I'm not sure." Radiant then took a look at it.

"Maybe it's some sort of code," Radiant said as Charming Thunder then remembered a saying from Flowing Scarf and realized it.

"It's the kingdom."

"What are you talking about?"

"It's a map. Look see, here's the cathedral, the castle, and this little...."

"I've never seen a map that looks like this and..." Silver said

"Look, I lived up here for a thousand years. And I think I know what it looks like from above and this is it!!!" Charming Thunder took a deep breath as Silver did the same.

"Silver, if my son says that it's a map, it's a map," Radiant said as she turned to Charming Thunder. "If we're going to find Flowing Scarf, we need to work together. OK?"

"Yes, mom."

"Good. Then let's get going to the Court of Miracles and warn Flowing Scarf." Charming Thunder and Silver nodded and walked down the stairs leaving the cathedral.

The Court of Miracles

Arriving at a graveyard, Charming Thunder and the others came across a grave with a symbol similar to what was seen on the talisman. Radiant got close to examine it. "This looks like the symbol on the map," Silver said.

"But what does it mean?" Charming Thunder asked.

"I'm not sure," Radiant said. "I can make out an inscription, but it's going to take a few minutes to translate it."

"There won't be much time left." Charming Thunder used his magic to push the lid off the grave, revealing a staircase going down.

"Yes, well, or we could just go down those stairs." The three explored downstairs and ended up in partially flooded chamber, lined with skeletons.

"Is this the Court of Miracles?"

"Offhand, I'd say it's the Court of Ankle Deep Sewage," Silver said. "Must be the old catacombs." As they proceed, they fail to notice three of the skeletons rise behind them. "Cheerful place. Kinda makes you wish you got out more often, eh Charming?"

"Not me. I just want to warn Flowing Scarf and get back to the bell tower. I don't want to get in any more trouble."

"Speaking of trouble, we should have run in to some by now," Radiant said in thought.

"What do you mean, mother?"

"She means something like a guard, a booby trap..." Silver said. The torch then gets blown out leaving them in the darkness. "...or an ambush." Suddenly, the chamber is fully lit, and they're surrounded by skeletons. They force them to their knees in front of Punjin.

"Well, well, well," Punjin said. "What have we here?"

"Trespassers!" one of the skeletons said.

"Spies!" the other skeleton said.

"We're not spies," Silver said.

"Can't you listen---" Charming Thunder, Radiant, and Silver were gagged.

"Don't interrupt me," Punjin shouted. "You're very clever to have found the gypsy haven. Unfortunately, you won't live to tell the tale."

Punjin and Gypsy Ponies

Maybe you've heard of a terrible place
Where the scoundrels of the empire
Gather in a lair
Maybe you've heard of that mythical place
Called the Court of Miracles

Punjin

Hello, you’re there

Gypsy Ponies

Where the crippled can walk
And the blind can see

Punjin

But the dead don't talk
So you won't be around
To reveal what you've found

Charming Thunder, Silver, and Radiant gulped as they were carried to a complete underground town.

Punjin and Gypsy Ponies

We have a method for spies and intruders
Rather like Changelings protecting their hive

Punjin

Here in the Court of Miracles

Punjin and Gypsy Ponies

Where it's a miracle if you get out alive!

Charming Thunder, Silver, and Radiant were then been taken up to a platform, where nooses are placed around their necks. “Gather around, everypony!” Punjin shouted. “There's good "noose" tonight! It’s a triple header, a couple of Sombra’s spies.” The crowd boos. “And not just any spies. His royal guard and his two loyal henchman.”

Punjin

Justice is swift in the Court of Miracles
I am the lawyers and judge all in one
We’d like to get the trial over with quickly
Because it's the sentence that's really the fun

“Any last words?” Punjin asked. The three only responded in muffle through their gags. “That’s what they all say.”

Now that we've seen all the evidence

Pinkie popped up from the crowd and tried to intervene.

Pinkie Pie

Wait! I object!

Punjin

Overruled!

Pinkie Pie

I object!

Punjin

Quiet!!!

Pinkie Pie

Darn it

Punjin

We find you totally innocent
Which is the worst crime of all

Punjin and Gypsy Ponies

So you're going to hang!

"Stop!!!" a voice from the crowd shouted as Punjin was about to pull the lever. Flowing Scarf along with Cadence, Twilight and her friends, and Shining Armor came through the crowd and up to the stand.

"These guys aren't spies," Cadence said. "They're our friends." Charming Thunder, Silver, and Radiant sighed with relief as their gags were removed and they were untied.

"Why didn't they say so?" Punjin asked.

"We did say so!!!" Charming Thunder and Silver replied.

"This is the royal guard that saved the miller's family and Charming Thunder helped me escape the cathedral," Flowing Scarf said.

"And what of her?" Punjin asked nervously as he pointed to Radiant.

"My mother," Charming Thunder replied. Silver stepped up to the front of the stage.

"We came to warn you!" Silver shouted. "Sombra's coming!" The crowd gasped. "He says he knows where you're hiding, and he's attacking at dawn with a thousand men."

"Then let's waste no time," Flowing Scarf said. "We must leave immediately." Gypsies begin running everywhere, beginning to pack up. Charming Thunder hugged his mother as Cadence and Twilight approached.

"So, you must be the son of Radiant here," Cadence said. Charming Thunder bowed to her presence. "No need for formality, Charming." Charming Thunder got back up and looked at Cadence then at Twilight.

"You were a brave pony during the Crystal Faire," Twilight said. "I'm Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship. I trust that you've met some of my friends from Ponyvile." She then pointed to her friends one by one. "This is Rainbow, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie, Rarity, and my student Starlight Glimmer." Starlight shyly looked away with a smile as Charming Thunder smiled.

"I remember you," Rarity said. "You were the pony who was crowned prince of the Crystal Empire during the Crystal Faire." Ponies continued to pack as Charming Thunder noticed Silver and Flowing Scarf talking.

"It is an honor to meet you all, but can you excuse me for a brief moment," Charming Thunder said as he walked past the group and towards Flowing Scarf.

"You took a terrible risk coming here," Flowing Scarf said to Silver. "It may not exactly show, but we're grateful." As Flowing Scarf moved closer to Silver, he noticed Charming Thunder with a depressed look.

"Don't thank me," Silver said. "Thank Charming. Without his help, I would never have found my way here."

"Nor would I," a voice said from a distance. Sombra stood at the top of the stairs as his soldiers surround the ponies and take the gypsies into custody. "After a thousand years of searching, the Court of Miracles is mine at last." He then looked at Charming Thunder, who wasn't in custody by his guards. "Dear Charming Thunder, I always knew you would someday be of use to me." Charming Thunder's eyes widened at the thought.

"What are you talking about?" Flowing Scarf asked.

"Why he led me right to you, my dear."

"You're a liar."

"And look what else I've caught in my net; Silver Shield back from the dead. Another miracle, no doubt. I shall remedy that." Sombra then looked at Radiant who had a look of worry. "And if it isn't my childhood friend; Radiant Hope. I was wondering if I would find you here. Perhaps you haven't told our son about me."

"He knows," Radiant said as she looked down. Sombra then walked away and looked at everyone in the room.

"There will be a little bonfire in the square tomorrow, and you're all invited to attend." Sombra turned to his guards. "Lock them all up. Including the princesses."

"No, please, father!!!" Charming Thunder shouted as he held on to Sombra's red cape for mercy. He then releases him and wept.

"Take him back to the bell tower. And make sure he stays there." The guards grab Charming Thunder and drag him.

The Battle

Dawn approaches as a crowd of ponies gathered to watch the burning of Flowing Scarf, who is on the pyre. Sombra stands next to her. Gypsies, Cadence, Twilight and her friends watch from their cages as Sombra reads from his scroll. "The prisoner Flowing Scarf has been found guilty of the crime of witchcraft," he said to the crowd. "The sentence: death." The crowd was blocked off by the soldiers as they tried to get through. They booed to Sombra as the pyre was being set up. Sombra levitates the torch and walks up to Flowing Scarf. "The time has come, gypsy. You stand upon the brink of the abyss. Yet even now, it is not too late. I can save you from the flames of this world, and the next. Choose me, or the fire." Flowing Scarf's response was a spit to the face. He then turns to the crowd. "The gypsy Flowing Scarf has refused to recant. This evil witch has put the soul of every citizen of the Crystal Empire in mortal danger...."

At the bell tower, the Diamond Dogs try to free the chained up Charming Thunder. "Come on, Charmy," Ollie said. "Snap out of it."

"Your friends are down there!" Scout said.

"It's all my fault," Charming Thunder said.

"You gotta break these chains," Layla said.

"I can't. I tried. What difference would it make?"

"But you can't let your father win and take over the kingdom again," Scout said.

"He already has won."

"So you're giving up?" Ollie asked. "That's it?"

"These chains aren't what's holding you back, Charming," Layla said as Charming Thunder got angry.

"Leave me alone!!!" Charming Thunder shouted. The Diamond Dogs finally give up and move away from Charming Thunder.

"Okay, Charmy, we'll leave you alone," Ollie said before he turned to crystal.

"After all we're only made of crystal," Scout added before he also turned to crystal.

"We just thought maybe you were made of something stronger," Layla said as she was the last one to turn to crystal. Charming Thunder only stood in place with his head looking at the ground in shame as he heard Sombra's voice from below.

"For justice, for the empire, and for her own salvation!" Sombra shouted as Charming Thunder walked to the edge to see Flowing Scarf about to be burned at the stake. "It is my shameful duty to send this poor girl back where she belongs!" Sombra lowers the torch to the pyre as Flowing Scarf struggled and the fire starts.

"NO!!!!!!" Charming Thunder shouted as he begins to pull the chains as hard as he could. He shook the very building as he pulled harder and harder until he was finally free from his chain prison. He races off and teleports to a roof of a house and looks to see the fire rising. He was quick enough to use his self-levitation spell to fly over the crowd and lands on the platform and quickly breaks the ropes binding Flowing Scarf on the pyre. A trio of guards come at him, but Charming Thunder grabs a torch and swings it at them, scaring them off. He then looks at Sombra, who looked angry as he readied a teleportation spell.

"Charming Thunder!!!" Sombra shouted. Charming Thunder teleported away with the unconscious Flowing Scarf from Sombra before he could tackle him. Twilight and the others cheered as Charming Thunder reached the top of the cathedral and stands in front of the stained glass window.

Charming Thunder then levitates Flowing Scarf's body above his head as he shouted, "Sanctuary!!!" The crowd cheered as Sombra was not pleased.

"That's my boy!!!" Radiant shouted.

"Captain!" Sombra shouted.

"Sir?" the captain asked.

"Seize the cathedral." Charming Thunder brought the still unconscious Flowing Scarf into a bedroom and lies her down on the bed.

"Don't worry," Charming Thunder said. "You'll be safe here." He then teleported in front of a beam of wood and used his magic to throw it at the advancing soldiers on the ground. They scatter like ants as Sombra got even more angry.

"Come back, you cowards." Sombra grabs the captain's sword and points at the beam. "You men, pick up that beam! Break down the door!" As the guards leave Silver's cage and one guard stays, Silver grabs the guard around the neck.

"Alone at last," Silver said. He bonks the guard on the head, and as the guard falls to the ground and he grabs the keys. The guards have begun battering the door as Silver frees himself and climbs to the top of the cage holding a spear. "Citizens of the Crystal Empire! Sombra has persecuted our people, ransacked our city! Now he has declared war on the cathedral herself! Will we allow it?" As the crowd begins to break loose the gypsies, the guards continue their assault. Soon, the crowd swarms around the door. Punji however stood on top of the cage and commentated the fight.

"Welcome to the Crystal Gypsy showdown!" Punji narrated. "It's an intense scene out there. Sombra's guards are getting their butts kicked by the gypsies. More updates at five." Above at the cathedral Charming Thunder and the Diamond Dogs watched.

"I think the cavalry's here," Ollie said. "Hey isn't that Feeble?"

"Doofus?" Layla said.

"Silver!!!" Charming Thunder said. The crowds continue to fight as Charming Thunder continues to drop things on the advancing troops. Scout drops a brick, landing square on a guard's head.

"Sorry!" Scout said. Ollie throws a rock in his mouth, then chomps it up, flies around like a bomber, ending up on the ledge. He begins spitting out pebbles like a machine gun at the soldiers. Sombra was supervising the guards as they continued to ram the door.

"Harder!" Sombra shouted. Twilight and Cadence blasted the soldiers with their magic while the others continued their fight. Meanwhile, Ollie and Scout were building a catapult. They finally were finished and ready to fire.

"Ready....aim....fire!" Scout said as him and Ollie push the catapult off the ledge, sending it crashing to the ground. Soldiers scatter as it hits. "Are you sure that's how it works?" The catapult, upside down, springs, sending the cart bottom on top of some soldiers.

"Works for me," Ollie said. Layla sends the birds to attack the guards below while the other soldiers continued to ram the door.

"Put your backs into it!!!" Sombra shouted as the soldiers rammed the door harder. Scout is using Ollie as a bellows in order to warm up the fire on the lead pot. Charming Thunder used his magic to attach a rope to it and then dumps it sending fire pouring out of the tower and onto the scattering guards below. The guards battering the door run, but Sombra manages to get in the cathedral. As he approached the stairs, Radiant magically appeared in front of him and stops him.

"Sombra, have you gone mad?" Radiant said. "I will not tolerate this assault on this cathedral."

"Silence, Radiant," Sombra said before slapping her in the face and walked past her. "Our son and I have unfinished business to attend to." He closes the door behind him and locks it. "And this time, the princesses will not interfere." He then proceeded up the cathedral to find Charming Thunder.

The Confrontation

Charming Thunder bursts into the bedroom with excitement. "We've done it, Flowing Scarf!" Charming Thunder said. "We've beaten them back! Come and see!" Flowing Scarf was still laying on the bed unconscious. "Flowing Scarf? Wake up! You're safe now." Still no response. "Flowing Scarf?" Charming Thunder then checked for a pulse and was shocked. "Oh no!" He then levitates a spoonful of water and tries to make her drink it, but had no luck. He dropped the spoon and was even more shocked. "Oh no!!!" The Diamond Dogs close the door to give him privacy as Charming Thunder began to cry. As he cried, Sombra entered the room quietly and placed his hoof on Charming Thunder's shoulder. "You killed her."

"It was my duty as king, horrible as it was," Sombra said. "I hope you can forgive me. There, there, my son. I know it hurts, but now, the time has come to end your suffering." Sombra raises his hoof with a dagger being held. "Forever." Charming Thunder saw the shadow of Sombra holding the dagger and quickly turned to grab Sombra's arm with the dagger and struggled. He then pushed Sombra hard to the wall and now he has the dagger in his hoof with anger in his eyes. "Now, now, listen to me, Charming."

"No, you listen! All my life my mother told me that you were a dark, cruel pony. And now I see that my mother was telling the truth all along." Charming Thunder throws the dagger away.

"Charming?" Flowing Scarf asked as she slowly got up. Charming Thunder turned to see her and helps her up from the bed.

"Flowing Scarf!"

"She lives!!!" Sombra shouted as he drew his sword.

"No!!!" Flowing Scarf and Charming Thunder ran out of the room and onto the balcony. When Sombra got outside, he saw nothing but gargoyles. After looking left and right, he looks out over the edge and finds Charming Thunder hanging there with Flowing Scarf.

"Leaving so soon, son?" Sombra swings his sword, but Charming Thunder teleports to another spot with Flowing Scarf to dodge the strike. Below, the guards stop to see the action on top of the cathedral. Sombra swings again as Charming Thunder and Flowing Scarf teleport again. They then finally get cornered after a few strikes. "I should have known you'd risk your life to save that gypsy witch. Just as your own mother tried to take you away from me trying to save you before the princesses came." Charming Thunder's eyes widened.

"What!?!"

"Now I'm going to do what I should have done a thousand years ago!" Sombra swings his cape, covering Charming Thunder's head and tries to throw him off the balcony. Charming Thunder then pulled the cape to take Sombra off as well hanging on to him. Flowing Scarf grabbed Charming Thunder's hoof as they hanged on. Sombra throws his cape around another gargoyle, and pulls himself over. He stands up and is about to swing at Flowing Scarf. "And he shall smite the wicked and plunge them into the fiery pit!" The gargoyle, however, begins to crack and Sombra is thrown off balance and hanging onto the gargoyle's head. Suddenly, the gargoyle comes to life and roars. Sombra screams as the gargoyle broke off sending Sombra falling to his death. Flowing Scarf is losing her grip on Charming Thunder.

"Charming! Charming!!!" Charming Thunder loses his grip and begins to fall. "NO!!!" He falls right along the building when Silver catches him several floors below and flew him into the building. When Charming Thunder sees who caught him, he hugs Silver. Flowing Scarf comes running in and sighed with relief. She then hugs Charming Thunder. After they hugged, Charming Thunder grabbed Flowing Scarf's hoof and Silver's hoof and puts them together. They kiss as Charming Thunder smiled broadly.

On the ground level, Flowing Scarf and Silver emerged from the cathedral into the light. As the crowd cheers, Flowing Scarf opens the doorway and comes back leading Charming Thunder out. The crowd goes silent as Charming Thunder looked at the crowd nervously. Soon, Starlight cautiously comes forward from the crowd and stood in front of him. Charming Thunder took a step back as he feared what's going to happen. She then pulled him in for a hug. He blushes and then smiles as they embraced the hug. She then gestured him to come to the crowd. Radiant rushed to him and gave him a hug as he walked through the crowd.

"Three cheers for Charming Thunder!!!" the squire shouted. The crowd cheered as the princesses walked up to him and talked.

The Squire

So here is a riddle to guess if you can
Sing the bells of the Crystal Empire
What makes a monster and what makes a stallion

Charming Thunder then got lifted up by one of the ponies as they cheered for the pony who saved the day. Punjin ran to Flowing Scarf and hugged her. He then hoof bumped Silver then turned to see Charming Thunder.

Whatever their pitch, you
Can feel them bewitch you
The rich and the ritual materials
Of the bells of the Crystal Empire!

Above the Diamond Dogs celebrated as they watched the crowd follow Charming Thunder. Birds have once again covered Layla. "Don't you ever migrate!?!" Layla shouted as she shook the birds off of her and continued to watch the crowd below.

THE END