-Canterlot: The Royal Palace-

Dawn broke over the land below, spilling the fresh, golden light across the country that was known simply as Equestria. For over a thousand years this land had stood brightly under the sky and the heavens, shining like a radiant beacon to the neighboring lands beyond its borders. Be it because the peace they have held persistently or the magic that flows freely within the land, Equestria was the source of inspiration and beauty to those who have seen it. This was the land of the ponies, the friendliest creatures known to this world. And it is through their happiness and joy that their leader rose. For she was the reason for their peace, the shining light, and guidance that help each and everypony in her land. Travelers from miles around have come to see the ruler of this beautiful land. To see the alicorn princess that has countless legends and feats under her name was a goal of many. But despite the weight of her name, Princess Celestia never thought of herself worthy of praise. She maybe a ruler but she too had made mistakes. Mistakes that she undoubtedly regrets. And even more so when it affects the countless lives that it has been put under her care. Such is the life of a ruler.

This morning she was overlooking her kingdom as she raised the sun above the horizon with her arcanic magic. But something was troubling her. She felt like something was amiss, that there was darkness coming to her subjects. That this day will not be like the countless days beforehand. That something sinister will happen today and it will change everything. How right she was.

“A storm is coming.” Princess Celestia whispered darkly. “I can feel it.”

She watched the sun rise above the horizon, bathing her inherent land in a golden light. She watched the morning bring a newfound energy into the life below. The birds were tweeting, the animals were waking up, and a gentle breeze moves across the forests and over the grasslands. But most importantly the residents of Ponyville were starting their morning routine. Celestia smiled, although briefly. The beauty of normalcy was worth the pain and effort that it took to keep her kingdom in peace. For the thousand years of peace, the land had experienced thus far was not without cost. The years before Celestia and her sister Luna ruled Equestria, this land had experience famine, darkness, chaos, and even wars. All of that Celestia wished to leave in the past and never happen again as long as she ruled. Still, she can’t help but feel that something was going to happen, something terrible. Celestia glanced at the morning sky. At least, she thought, I was able to enjoy a peaceful dawn one last time.

Celestia began to enter the castle when she caught sight of a landmark in Ponyville: The Golden Oak Library. Even from this distance, she could see the library. The sight of this tree building eroded some of the despair Celestia was feeling. Living in the library was none other than her promising and faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. When Celestia first meet Twilight Sparkle, both physically and spiritually, she knew there was something special about her. So she gave her a chance to enroll in her school here in Canterlot. From the moment she began her study here, she was obsessive with learning. She took to magic like a duck to water. But it scared Celestia. In the many years Twilight was studying, she was slowly being isolated. Celestia had seen this behavior before. In a move to help Twilight discover her true potential, Celestia had manipulated the circumstance for Twilight to make friends in Ponyville and to keep her studies from consuming her. But there was another reason. A not entirely selfish less reason.

Celestia remembered that day. It was a day that she had waited for a thousand years. It was the day that she both dreaded and anticipated. For it was the day her sister, Luna, returned. It wasn’t always just Celestia who ruled this grateful land. When they established Equestria, it was both Celestia and Luna who rule over the kingdom. They were the ones who brought the day and night to this land. They brought peace and harmony after years upon years of suffering. Celestia thought that their rule would last forever after they created Equestria. After all the terrible things that ponykind had to endure, they were in desperate need of order, peace, and happiness. Celestia was happy to provide these things. But their rule wouldn’t remain peaceful. After years of being in Celestia’s shadow, Luna was growing bitter and jealous. There were signs of course. But Celestia ignores them. She regretfully thought that Luna was strong enough to resist the unhappiness that grew inside her, appreciate the role of the night that she brought forth every day. But her anger was unquenched and it transforms Luna into a dark, powerful creature who declared herself to be Nightmare Moon. The battle was extensive and difficult. With all her regret and pain, Celestia had to use the most powerful artifacts she had, the Elements of Harmony, to banish Luna to the moon, sealing her inside for a thousand years.

Celestia looked into the Memorial Hall. The hallway was used to depict Equestrian history and kept the most powerful treasure of them all: The Elements of Harmony. Celestia closed her eyes. She remembers when she once had to wield them, the moments she had to use their powers. Honesty. Laughter. Kindness. Generosity. Loyalty. But most importantly: Magic. It was a power that protected Equestria for over a thousand years. It was their most powerful weapon and their last resort when things become dire. Yet Celestia hopes to never use them again. She had a feeling that something might be off with the Elements, like a dark seed planted in her mind. She remembers how she and Luna got them to defeat-

“Celestia?” a voice rang from the hallway entrance. Celestia turns to see Luna appearing in the entranceway. Her star filled mane flowing with magic embedded in her since birth. Celestia let out a small sigh relief. She felt that Luna could bring her some small comfort and maybe they could discuss the dark feeling that was consuming her.

“What are you doing over here?” Luna asked.

“Nothing,” Celestia told her as she walks to the entrance hall.

“What is the matter, dear sister?” Luna said as they began to walk down the stairs. “You look tired and dreadful.”

Luna was not usually up this early. Or late from her point of view. She was usually asleep before dawn for her night duties keeps her up late. In truth, the two sisters don’t spend a lot of time together because of their conflicting roles. If Luna was up, however, that means something is going on. Celestia turns to her sister and answers her question honestly.

“I feared something is going to happen before the day is out.” Celestia confined in her sister. “There is a plot going on. A plan that is going to endanger all of Equestria.”

“Yes,” Luna said thoughtfully. “I feel something too. Have you been sensing a new change in the air?”

“It doesn’t make sense though,” Celestia stated, her brow furrowed. “We extinguish all sources of refined dark magic and any generating sources a long time ago. Any attempt to bring more into our land would give us some sort of warning. Yet what source would be lingering in the background? It must be something we have yet to encounter.”

The two of them stood in silence for awhile. It was a scary thought for them to acknowledge that there is something out there that is beyond their knowledge, they have lived for nearly two thousand years and they have encountered all sorts of threats of the time they rule this land. Yet they know that there are more threats out there than just the ones they have encountered.

“I think,” Celestia turned to Luna. “It is time for us to visit The Vault.”

“Are you sure?” Luna asked. “We cannot be sure the answers are in there. It could take years to find what we are looking for, our spells won’t be strong enough to hold it for long.”

“Yes, but what choice do we have?” Celestia stomped her foot impatiently. “We cannot ignore this now. We have to figure this out before it gets ahead of us and puts Equestria in danger.”

“But we don’t even know what it is, sis,” Luna exclaimed. “I mean, do you have any idea what could be out there that is unnerving you so much?”

“I don’t know, sis.” Celestia looked up to the sky as gray clouds began to move in. “I feel like something terrible is going to happen, a presence I’ve not felt since…”

“Your Majesties!” a voice rang out from the entrance.

Celestia and Luna turned to see a royal guard clad in her complete armor with a large blue cloak covering her head was running up the hallway She was one of the special, elite guards. She looked out of breath and worry. She quickly bowed to the two princesses.

“What is it, Captain Silver Light?” Celestia asked the royal guard.

“We have some troubling news from Cloudsdale.” Captain Silver Night reported. “Dark clouds are forming rapidly out of nowhere. The pegasi are trying to control them but they seem to be resisting magic. They are gathering over the cities as we speak.”

Celestia felt a cold feeling forming inside her. The darkness from these clouds could only mean one thing. But he was dead! Twilight made sure of that. Celestia tried to think of all the threats they were could be facing. The thousands of years that have plagued Equestria beforehand. But none of them could cause this much of coordinated attacks. The only explanation was dark magic and she could only remember one being that could do this.

“King Sombra….” Celestia growled.

“But he is dead.” Luna reminded her. “Twilight and her companions sought to the matter.”

“Even so,” Celestia said. “This is dark magic we are dealing with. Nopony has the power of that magnitude unless they have been banished or imprisoned in Tartarus. Anypony who can do this is a threat to all living things in this realm. Equestria is in danger if we don’t act-”

But Princess Celestia was interrupted by a bright, white flash. The light filled the whole room for a brief second before vanishing. It was followed by a loud roar of thunder. Princess Celestia turned to the window. Rain was starting to come down. But this was no ordinary rain. It was coming in hard and fast. Puddles of water quickly formed on the ground, soaking it in water. Celestia noticed something outside. She let out a loud gasp.

“Luna!” she told her sister. “To the Statue Garden.”

They started to head to the outside garden. However, at the last second, Celestia turned to the royal guard.

“Captain Silver Light.” She said, approaching her

“Yes, Your Majesty?” Silver Light asked, standing up straight.

“I need you to relay a message to Counselor Winter Night about this event. He needs to contact all the unicorns in Canterlot. We have to get rid of these storm clouds first and foremost. “

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Captain Silver Light said.

“Also,” Princess Celestia said as her horn glowed. Suddenly a small box appeared in front of Silver Light. It was locked but Silver Edge knows what was inside them. It could only be one thing to be used at a time like this. “These are the Elements of Harmony.” Princess Celestia said sternly. “Guards these with your life. Send a crew of your best pegasi and your best guards and gives these to Twilight Sparkle. Tell her that I will send a message to her soon. If I’m not back, alert the rest of the guards and the elders. They will have to inform Twilight of what has happened.”

“Your wish is my command, Majesty.” Silver Light replied.

“Thank you, Captain Silver Light.” Celestia said and she left the room like a soft breeze.

-Ponyville: Sweet Apple Acres-

The morning was still hot and bright down by Ponyville. It was only a few minutes past dawn but the farm of Sweet Apple Acres was bustling with activity. It was, of course, one of the greater landmarks of Ponyville and nearly visible from nearly every part of town. The owners were the oldest and most respected families in the area. Indeed they are the reason that the town even exists. So it goes without question that the ponies in Ponyville assumed that there is only one pony that will be up this early and that will be Applejack.

Applejack had started the day as early as possible. She could feel that a storm might come despite the pegasi saying they weren’t planning on. Still, she needs to get some of her ripe apples down as soon as possible. She and Big Mac were already pulling out the barrels by the time the sun has risen properly.

“Sweet Celestia” Applejack said as she put the barrels on the wagon. “Today is going to be a scorcher.”

“Eeyup” Big Macintosh, her older brother, replied.

“Boy mighty,” Applejack said as she went in front of the wagon. “I’m glad we are getting this done in the morning. There is no telling how hot it will be today.”

Big Mac merely nodded. Her brother wasn’t much with words.

“Okay, Big Mac.” Applejack looked at the orchards in front of her. “You take the ripe apples in the east field. I’ll handle the ones in the west. Sounds like a plan?”

“Eeyup” Big Mac said again.

“All right then,” Applejack said. “Let’s get to Applebucking!”

Even though Applebucking Season was still a month away, Applejack wanted to tackle the early bloomers before they had prepared for their family reunion which was coming up soon. Applejack was not one the delay things. Each year the early apples would keep catching her and Big Mac off. Not this year, Applejack thought. She wanted to be ahead this year. If she can take care of the early apples then she can have time to prepare for the harvest season.

Applebucking was a craft that very few ponies understand and even less master it. The ponies who spend their whole lives harvesting have to be strong to get fruit, especially apples, down from a tree. The whole method was believed to be developed by the Apple Family of course. It was taught and mimicked by other harvesting ponies but was never as good as the Apple’s. Most ponies have to kick a tree three or four times to get the fruit to come down. The key, Applejack thought, was to aim at the very center and kick hard with the strength of both your forelegs and back legs to get all the fruit to fall. That way you weren’t spending a lot of time on one tree. Most folks down in Ponyville would believe that Applejack was the best bucker in the world but Applejack would have to politely disagree. She believes wholeheartedly that Big Mac was way better than her.

It was mid-morning when Applejack came upon her fifty-sixth tree. Sweat was pouring down her face but she was enjoying it. Nothing like a good workout to get the day started. She leaped up and give the tree a good kick. It felt heavier as it shook. Then something let out a yelp. Falling down with the fruit was something big, blue, and definitely not an apple. Applejack turn around to see what had fallen out of her tree.

“What in tarnation?” Applejack said as she looked from under the tree.

Sprawled on the ground was a light blue pegasus who just woken up with a start. Her rainbow mane was wild and messy. She stood up, shaking her face from the cobwebs of sleep. Applejack’s face turns from mildly confused to extremely annoyed in a matter of seconds.

“Rainbow Dash!” Applejack said huffily. “I told you not to be sleeping in my trees anymore. Did you really have to sleep in one of my apple trees, especially the ones I’m harvesting?”

Rainbow Dash suddenly realized where she was. “Oh,” she said, rubbing the back of her head. “Sorry about that.” She said,
clearly embarrassed but slightly amused.

“Couldn’t you sleep in your own bed?” Applejack said, rolling her eyes as she proceeded to the next tree.

“Yeah, it has been a long night.” Rainbow Dash said, yawning as she stretched her forelegs and wings.

“I bet.” Applejack said as she bucks the next tree.

“Yeah, well I was next to Spitfire and Soarin for the nearly whole night.” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “We were talking about the stunts I pulled back at Junior Speedsters flight camp and then we talk about the Wonderbolts recent missions and how they rescued a lost filly from a sleeping dragon, eating and drinking-”

“So I take it-” Applejack paused to buck another tree. “The ceremony went well.”

“Oh yeah,” Rainbow Dash said as she flew up into the sky. “It isn’t totally official yet but you might be looking at a Wonderbolts reserve here. That means if one of the Wonderbolts gets sick and can’t make a performance, then I might get to fly with them! That is totally awesome! Me, flying with the Wonderbolts. It is like a dream come true.”

Applejack merely nodded as she continued to applebuck the trees. She knows that she surprises even the early birds of Ponyville by being active so early in the morning. But Applejack is shocked of how much energy Rainbow Dash has once she gets up. She was like a rambling, flying storm. At least Applejack needs a good meal before she could start her day. Thank Celestia that Rainbow Dash hardly gets up before noon or that their other friend, Pinkie Pie, isn’t a pegasus. Applejack shutters at the thought of Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash’s antics in the sky. Applejack was finishing her last apple tree before lunch when she saw her sister Apple Bloom coming up.

“Hey, whatcha doing out here, little sis?” Applejack said as she gathers her baskets.

Apple Bloom came up with a small letter in her mouth. Their dog, Winona, came bounding along barking. Apple Bloom was a small filly, still in school and Cutie Mark-less. She can be annoying sometimes but Applejack won’t trade her for the world. Every time Applejack finds herself in a terrible situation, like the quests she goes on with Twilight, she thinks of Apple Bloom and how much her sister looks up to her. Then nothing can stop Applejack from escaping the danger. She will cross a field of irritated snakes to get to her sister and home.

“Here you go, Applejack.” Apple Bloom mumbled before she put down the letter. “It is a letter for you.”

“Now who in the whole world would be giving me a letter?” Applejack wondered as she lifts the baskets of apples into the cart. “Apple Bloom put the letter on my apple cart. I will look at it before lunch, ‘kay?”

“All righty then.” Apple Bloom said, grabbing the letter

“That reminds me,” Rainbow Dash said from above them, causing Applejack to jump. She totally forgot that Rainbow Dash was still here. “I have to head home and check on Tank. He hasn’t been feeling like himself lately. I hope his new goggles actually come in today. That mail pony keeps missing my house. Later, AJ!”

Rainbow Dash flew off into the sky and headed towards her home.

“Don’t forget what I said about my trees!” Applejack yelled at Rainbow Dash. “And take care of these clouds! I don’t want another rainstorm because you forgot to do your job.”

Applejack looked up to the sky. A few, stray clouds were hovering in the sky. But they were not that threatening yet. If Rainbow Dash does her job today, then Ponyville will have a nice warm afternoon. Applejack grabbed her end of the cart. She could see some more clouds in the northeast. Some dark ones were hovering over Canterlot. Applejack thought nothing of it. A few clouds in Canterlot won’t affect Ponyville. Applejack picks up her cart full of apples and headed to the barn, her letter in tow.

-Canterlot: The Statue Garden-

“And you are sure that is what happened?” Celestia asked quietly.

“Yes, Your Majesty.” The guard replied, sinking his head lower.

Celestia looked at the spot where a perfect circle formed.

“It just…vanished?” Celestia asked, her voice trembling.

“Yes, Your Majesty.” The guard repeated. “I was watching the statue and a bolt of lightning hit it. And then it disappeared. I blink and the statue was gone.”

“Very, well,” Celestia said. “You may go and help the rest of the guards conduct a search of the castle.”

The guard left. Celestia scanned the entire garden. The statues were all still, the rain pounding hard against their stone skin.
Celestia was lost for words, a feeling that was something she hadn’t felt in a long time. It scared her. She was scared. She walked down the pathway that circled her garden. If all these things were happening at once, then she may be facing her greatest challenge yet. Something is trying to attack Equestria and they are gaining the upper hoof.

Celestia looked up to see Luna flying in from the north. She landed gracefully next to her.

“Any progress?” Celestia asked even though she knew the answer.

“Unfortunately no, my dear sister,” Luna said. “The guards have checked all exits around Canterlot and even the cliff areas. We have no sight of him.”

“Strange” Celestia looked back at the spot of where the statue once was.

“But why Discord?” Luna asked worryingly.

“I don’t know, Luna,” Celestia replied. “Something is not right.”

“Do you think Discord is on the loose then?” Luna said, her eyes widening in fear.

“No, I don’t believe so,” Celestia stated as she looked up the swirling clouds above. “I think our suspect wanted Discord out of the way. He is too powerful to have around. If they are working with dark magic and we released Discord, then this adversary will have no countermeasures against Discord. I believe this is attacking the large cities of Equestria first and disabling our mobility.”

“Do you still believe King Sombra is Involved?”

“Not exactly, Luna.” Celestia said. She felt chilly as the rain splattered against her skin. “At least he’s not initially the cause of this attack. This maybe his kind of magic but the scale and planning of it far precedes him. I cannot see who could be responsible for such an act. All the usual suspects have been dealt with or put in Tartarus. But there has to be something I’m missing.”

Celestia began to pace. Her mind began to fish for the clues to reveal who would be able to control the weather and be gathering the power of darkness. She could tell that Luna was watching her, expecting answers. Celestia wanted to have them, she truly did. Yet being nearly two thousand years did little to retain the most crucial bit of clues. It didn’t help that they had faced all kinds of threats since they became the leaders of Equestria. Celestia felt herself stressing. What good was she if she can’t react properly to an attack like this? No, she must stand strong and figure this out quick. The longer they don’t react, the quicker that the enemy will be able to win. They need to do something unexpected. It is clear that the culprit was planning everything for years and they were predicting what the princesses would do next.
Celestia and Luna would attack the storm head on.

“You believe that we are next?” Luna piped up.

Celestia turned to her sister. “Isn’t obvious?” she said. “First this magic storm, then taking out Discord, and the only logical thing is to target us next. We are Equestria’s ultimate form of defense.”
“Perhaps we should consult the representatives from the other lands” Luna suggested. “Perhaps they have a suspect that might hold a grudge against Equestria. We could figure out if this is happening to just us or that they maybe are trying to control all the weather in the world.”

“But an attack on the scale would take forever to build.” Celestia stated. “No, this is somepony on the inside. I’m sure of it. This is just happening too quickly. First King Sombra’s dark magic, the weather going out of control, and now Discord. No, this predates Sombra, Queen Chrysalis, Discord, and even Nightmare Moon. I’m sure of it. However, that only leaves one or two suspects that have been long gone. They can’t be just a coincidence. This just doesn’t make any sense.”
Just then a guard came running up to the two princesses.

“Your Majesties!” he said, gasping for breath. “I just received word from Cloudsdale. The pegasi are encountering some sort barrier. They say that it is a few miles from the city and it is totally impervious.”

“What’s this?” Luna asked, her face showing some skepticism. “Explain thyself!”

“They say an invisible shield has engulfed all of Equestria.” The guard told them. “Nothing can get past it. They are trying everything but the storm is making it too difficult. The pegasi are trying to control the clouds but it is becoming impossible. The storms are blowing the pegasi away from the higher altitudes.”

Celestia and Luna looked at each other. This recent revelation was nothing short of sinister. If what this guard was saying is true, then all of Equestria is trapped. This is unprecedented. Nothing alone could trap the entire land of Equestria and the amount of magic to do so would take centuries to build. Celestia didn’t want to admit to being afraid that what they were facing was beyond the usual scale. The amount of power one could use to put a dome over this land is enough to challenge Celestia and Luna as ruler of the land, a god of this land. Celestia couldn’t allow that to happen. She knew what a cruel god could do.

Celestia stepped a few feet into the grass. A determined look came upon her graceful face. Her eyes focus up to the sky, the sheet of rain pounding against her body. Then with a mighty leap, Celestia bounded a few yards up into the sky, her horn glowing. She let out a yell as she fired a golden light from her horn. The powerful beam of magic cut through the rain and the dark clouds. It went on for a few good miles before it hit an unexpected barrier. Celestia could see cracks of green energy spreading across the invisible wall before dissipating completely. Celestia let out a surprised gasp. That was one of her stronger spells and it wasn’t making a dent. Celestia looked all around her, hearing a dull echo of her attack reverberate in the sky.

“Luna,” Celestia shouted. “Follow me!”

Celestia burst out of the garden and flew straight into the storm. Her golden magic cut across the dark, billowing clouds, shielding from all the dangers. Luna quickly followed her. The two regal sisters were gaining speed as they were reaching the area underneath where the top of dome supposedly was. Soon they were above the highest layer of clouds, their magical defenses stopping even the strongest gales. Celestia let out another burst of magic. It hit the top of the dome causing sparks of energy to fly out of the invisible wall.

Celestia let out a frustrated growl. “How is this possible?”

“Celestia,” Luna said quietly, her voice tingling with concern.

“What?”

“Look” Luna pointed as figures emerge from the clouds.

Celestia turned to see that lights of various shades of green were forming into large shapes. Sparks were coming out of the clouds, energy pouring into this strange matter. Then they began to become tall figures made of dark material. The creatures let out a terrible noise, a roar of pure menace. They were galloping with great speed, their bodies developing as they exit from the clouds. Their narrow eyes were glaring menacingly. They were like a pack of Timberwolves that had found prey. Celestia felt dreaded realization hit her at that moment. Whoever is doing this wanted to isolate her and Luna from the rest of Equestria. They knew that Celestia would investigate herself of what is happening in the top. Now she and Luna have been played like fools. This was a trap. Celestia and Luna huddled close to each other, their backs nearly touching. Surrounding them was about forty wendigos.

“Sister,” Luna began.

“I know,” Celestia said, her eyes darting to the two nearest groups.

She prepared her magic, her horn blazing.

“On my mark.” Celestia told Luna.

Luna nodded.

“Three”

Luna flared her horn up as well.

“Two”

A distant boom was echoing from below. Thunder, perhaps.

“One”

The wind began to howl fiercely. The wendigos let out their haunting howl.

“NOW!”

Then, all at once, the wendigos attacked.

-Ponyville: Carousel Boutique-

Rarity started to put down the current dress she was modifying when the shop bell let out a soft ding. Rarity let out a sigh as she adjusts her red glasses. She had hoped to be finished with this particular dress by today but it just didn’t seem to be right. It was her own criticizing attitude that was nagging her but it was well right to listen to her inner thoughts. Her gut feeling is what made the best dresses. Speaking of the gut, Rarity felt her stomach growled. She put down her tools and went down to the shop room. Once she has helped this customer, she must have a bite to eat. Rarity couldn’t believe it was lunchtime already. Time flies when you are working hard.

“Welcome to Carousel Boutique,” Rarity said, greeting the customers below. “Where every garment is chic, unique, and magnifique.”

“Hiya, Rarity.” A familiar voice rang out. Rarity looked down to see a bright pink pony jumping up and down.

“Oh, Pinkie Pie my darling, how are you?” Rarity asked as she came downstairs.

Apparently soaking wet. Pinkie Pie’s entire body was covered in water as she bounces up and down.

“Oh, the usual” Pinkie Pie said. “The usual, the usual, the usually EXCITING!”

“My, you looked dreadful.” Rarity said as she looked to the stormy outside. “Did you get caught in the rain?”

“Mhmm” Pinkie Pie nodded. “I was doing my deliveries for the Cakes when it started to sprinkle just a teensy weensy bit. Then it started to come in small drops. Before I blinked, the entire sky pours on top of my head.” Pinkie Pie let out a bout of laughter.

“Not to worry, my dear.” Rarity said as she went to the back. “I should have dry towels somewhere.”

Rarity went back to her storage room where she kept her extra supplies and other items. She was hoping to go out this evening in her new dress but this rainstorm seems to put a stop to that. Oh well, Rarity thought as she uses her magic to telekinesis the towels out of the closet. It is not like tomorrow won’t be sunny. She heard the belt ding again as she came out of her storage room. She was about to say her motto again when she spot who it was.

“Fluttershy!” Rarity gasped.

The yellow pegasus was positively soaked to the bones. She stood in the threshold, shivery and dripping. Her entire body looked like she swam across a lake. Fluttershy let out a soft sneeze. Rarity immediately went over to dry her up. She moves the towels with her magic to dry both her friends up. They looked like they were on the verge of getting a cold.

“Um, sorry to intrude like this.” Fluttershy mumbled. Rarity had trouble hearing Fluttershy half the time because she was so quiet.

“Not at all, dear.” Rarity said politely. “You shouldn’t be out there in dreadful weather like this.”

Fluttershy mumbled something along the lines of ‘I know.’

“Now, then.” Rarity said as she finished drying her friends. “Let’s have a nice, warm lunch. I’ll make some hot soup for us all.”

“Um, you really don’t have to.” Fluttershy said quietly.

“Tut, tut” Rarity said. “I insist. We can have some of the bread rolls that Pinkie Pie was gracious enough to give to me.”

“Ooh,” Pinkie Pie squeaked. “Did ya like them?”

“Indeed, I did.” Rarity said as she headed into the kitchen. “They were absolutely marvelous.”

Rarity wasn’t much of a chef. She didn’t cook meals that often. She mostly ate prepared or raw foods. But with Sweetie Bell living here now and her massive yet picky appetite, Rarity had to improvise some nights. She was far from the greatest cook but she did all right compare to some (Sweetie Bell). Within fifteen minutes, Rarity had three bowls of hot tomato and carrot soup with some lettuce. Pinkie Pie bounced up and down as the three of them sat down at the table. Fluttershy muttered her thanks as Pinkie Pie began to attack her food. Rarity chew on some of her food before she spoke to Fluttershy.

“So, Fluttershy,” Rarity looked to the yellow pegasus. “How have things been for you? It seems like it has been ages since we last spoke.”

“Oh, things have been alright,” Fluttershy said quietly. “Angel’s been under the weather lately. I went out to get him some of his favorite foods when this rain started. I hope he is doing all right.”

“Yes, this weather is getting to everyone.” Rarity spoke, looking down at her food. “Come to think about it, Opal hasn’t been feeling well either. I was hoping her new bed would help soothe her but nothing seems to be uplifting her spirits. I ordered the bed from the best pet shop in Canterlot in hopes that it would be satisfying.”

“Ooh, that reminds me.” Pinkie Pie exclaimed out of nowhere. She pulled out a package from behind her back. “This was sitting on your porch when I enter the store, Rarity. It was starting to get wet and I didn’t want it to. So I brought it in.”

“Thank you, Pinkie.” Rarity took the package. “This must be the new fabric I ordered.”

Rarity put the package to the side and finished her meal. She, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy continued to talk about their days as the deluge began to worsen. Now the sound of thunder was coming in the mix. Rarity could tell that Fluttershy was getting increasingly worried. Her eyes kept darting back and forth between the windows. Rarity was starting to worry too.
This storm felt a bit too strong and terrifying. The pegasi were overdoing it today.

Eventually, the three friends finished their meals. They all looked at the soaking outdoors. Large puddles were forming in the street. All the residents were running around to the nearest shelter. Rarity can’t blame them. She wouldn’t want to be out there either. She would allow Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie to stay but Fluttershy seems to be upset. Rarity guessed that she is thinking about her pet rabbit, Angel. Rarity did her best to soothe her friend’s concerns.

“Now, Fluttershy,” said Rarity. “You can’t get too worried about Angel. He will be all right. This storm is just not suiting anyone today.”

“Yes, but I’m afraid of coming home emptyhoof today.” Fluttershy told Rarity. “Angel needs to eat today but all the shops seem to be closing from the weather. I don’t know what to do.”

“Not to worry, my dear.” Rarity assured her friend. “I will get your pet rabbit his much needed food. I’ll stop by later today when this weather is better.”

“Oh, thank you” Fluttershy smiled.

“Not a problem.” Rarity said, her horn glowing. “Now, you're my dear need to stay dry. Here, take my umbrella.” Rarity gave Fluttershy one of her umbrellas from next to the door. “This will keep you dry for the most part.”

“Oh, Rarity. You are too kind.” Fluttershy thanked her.

“Now, you best head home.” Rarity told her. “That umbrella wouldn’t do much against lightning.”

“Okay then.”

Fluttershy quickly ran out towards her home, the umbrella shielding her from the worst of the storm. Rarity looked up to see some of the rain being blown across the sky. Thunder rumbled above her. A chill came over Rarity. Something didn’t feel right. Rarity shook her head. She can’t be concerned with the weather now. She turned to give Pinkie Pie her umbrella.

“Here you go, Pinkie Pie.” Rarity said, giving Pinkie Pie a blue umbrella.

“Ooh, sparkly.” Pinkie Pie let out as she looks at the umbrella.

“Speaking of which, how is Twilight doing? Haven’t seen her in days.”

“Oh, she is studying for some magic test.” Pinkie Pie said offhandedly. “Said it was really, really important. It just looked boo-ring! Glad I’m not studying for a magical test. Oh, well. Guess it is time to head home. I believe I got a package in the mail too.”

Pinkie Pie headed out the door. She was halfway out when she stopped in her tracks. She shuttered, her whole body shaking. Rarity tilted her head, looking at Pinkie Pie inquiringly. She has heard of Pinkie Pie having special senses. She calls it Pinkie Sense. Usually, Rarity chalks it up to being nothing. But now she felt something was wrong.

“Something a matter, dear?” Rarity inquired.

“I don’t know,” Pinkie Pie said, her head shaking. “It just felt like something is going to happen in a few hours. Like a big, huge, monstrous, immense doozy.” Pinkie Pie paused. “Aww, it is probably nothing.”

Pinkie Pie smiled and then proceed to bounce out into the puddles, splashing everywhere. Rarity shrugged it off as she closes her door. She turns to the package.

“Now, let’s see what I got today.” Rarity said softly as she opens the package up.

-A few miles above Equestria-

Celestia and Luna were hovering together, back to back. They were both panting from their recent efforts. It has been a long time since either of them had to exert themselves for this long. The wendigos themselves were wise enough not to approach the two royal sisters. After being blast apart by Celestia and Luna, the wendigos were now sending shards of ice and the wind at them. Celestia was quick enough to block each attempt. However, she noticed some of the wendigo’s strange behavior. They were not attacking at once anymore but some were circling around a certain area of clouds. They were being guarded by the rest of the pack, their eyes locking on to Celestia. Celestia didn’t like this new tactic. She moved forward.

Then out of nowhere three pitch black creatures leaped in front of her. Their red eyes were burning with hatred as they rose up and open their mouths. Suddenly sparks of lightning came out of them. Celestia let out a surprised gasp. Wendigos couldn’t produce lightning! But Celestia didn’t have time to question this as the lightning bolts were aiming for her! She dodged them by doing an aileron roll. The bolts missed her but headed for another target.

“LUNA!” Celestia yelled.

The bolts of lightning barely past her, only grazing against her left wing. Still, Luna let out a cry mingling with pain and shock. Celestia felt her heart tighten. She rose up to the sky faster than an eye could blink. Before the wendigos could react, Celestia let out an array of lights that started to vaporize every one of them. Celestia hovered over the cloudscape, looking for signs of any activity. But everything was starting to calm down. The entire area became still for a moment. Then Celestia felt a presence. It felt like a dark shadow came over her. She turned around.

Green cracks were appearing in the sky above. These were not normal crack but rips that were tearing through matter, space, and matter. The tears of space-time were spreading across the barrier wall. Flames and sparks were pouring out of the crack and into their world. An endless supply of dark energy was coming into their world. Celestia felt her throat closed in fear. She swore something was coming. She turned to her sister.

“Did you just-” Celestia started to ask but a rumbling laughter interrupts her.

That laughter was not normal. In fact, it came from everywhere. From the clouds, from the invisible barrier. From the very air around them. Celestia knew at that moment who it was.

“Destroy the Princesses.” The voice stated. “Destroy Equestria.”

“No,” whispered Celestia. “It is impossible. You’re dead.”

Celestia, however, felt a chill come over, a chill that one would associate itself with dark magic. Celestia turns around. Behind her and Luna was a giant, billowing head made of dark clouds and a pair of red eyes. It lunges forward. Its mouth open as sparks flew out of it. Celestia was paralyzed with fear. She didn’t react quick enough. Luna however did. Luna dived at her elder sister and tackled her off her balance. It caused Celestia to tumble down as the bolts of lightning hit Luna.
Celestia could feel herself screaming but didn’t hear her voice over the rushing wind. Luna shook in pain before she went still completely. She froze in midair before a flash of light engulfed her. Then like that she vanished. Nothing there. Just a poof of air. Celestia felt completely numb. Her body fell down as she stared at the spot where her sister was at.
Then Celestia felt uncontrollable rage building inside her. She let out a scream of fury and pain. Her magnificent white wings spread out as skyrocket up and blast full speed at the adversity. Her horn sparked with energy. She didn’t bother with spells. She just went full force at him. This caught him off guard. She pierced the black clouds causing both of them to tumble down into the storm. Rain, wind, and lightning lashed against their bodies as they began to descend into the heart of the storm. Celestia lifted her head up, slicing her foe’s shoulder. The pain caused his face to form into a solid shape. Celestia lowered her horn right in the center.

“Hello,” Celestia said, her voice shaking with anger. “King Sombra.”

The former king of the Crystal Empire was not a pretty sight. His once handsome normal body had become decay and rotten in some places. Red crystals were growing in some places like his joints and limbs. Dark energy came out of him like a star radiating heat.

The evil unicorn let out a bark of crackling laughter.

“Good to see you, Princess Celestia.” Sombra said, unfazed.

“You’ll pay for this.” Celestia growled. “What have you done? Where is Luna?”

“I doubt you will be able to stop me.” Sombra told her politely. “If you had the nerve, you would have done it all those years ago. I, on the other hoof, am a different story. You really didn’t think I would have taken you on alone, did you? No, we now know the key to victory. And we will not be stopped this time.”

“We?” Celestia asked. “Who’s this ‘we’?”

KIng Sombra began to grin, his rotten teeth excreting a terrible smell.

Celestia suddenly realized who he meant.

“No,” Celestia said, clearly shaken. “Not her too.”

“There is more of us this time, my sweet, darling Celestia.” Sombra said triumphantly. “Surely you realize that the power to bring me back, bring an army of abominations, and entrapped Equestria is more than you can be prepared for.”

“If you think I will go down without a fight this time,” Celestia stated, her horn glowing. “Then you are very much mistaken.”

“I’m afraid that is you who is mistaken, Celestia. If it was just my plan alone, then I will kill you in a heartbeat. However, it isn’t so. But not to worry my friends here will be able to take good care of you.”

Celestia looked around to see hundreds and hundreds of eyes locking on to her. They were closing in fast. Sombra let out another bout of laughter before disappearing into the clouds. Celestia looked to see that Sombra has laid a trap for her once again. He was planning for every step Celestia was taking. That means he has predicted her movements, her plans for this sort of action. So once he got rid of Luna and her, who would be next? Celestia let out a loud gasp. She just realized how careless she has become. Equestria is hanging in the balance and now it may fall all because of her stupid mistakes.

“The Elements” Celestia realized. “Twilight!”

Just then the wendigos, the monsters, and the abominations all charged at Celestia, overcoming her with sheer numbers.

-Outside of Canterlot Palace-

Silver Light put the final lock on the chest that held the Elements. She let out a whistle and the convoy began to take off. Silver began to hover above the carriage where two sets of guards were inside, guarding the Elements. The group flew up above the spirals of the buildings that led to the palace. Down below, countless citizens were seeking shelter from the storm. The rain was intense. Barely any of them could see beyond the wall of rain. Silver felt the water clinging to her skin. She adjusted the goggles on her face. The wind was also picking up speed. It was pushing against her team with a surprising amount of force.

The convoy was now in the open air. They had exit the airspace of Canterlot and were now traveling at a downwards angle, heading southwest. The team had done this over a hundred times in practice. They were the most qualify air guards to led this mission. Yet Silver cannot help but feel like they were heading into danger. They were vulnerable on all sides. She decides to check on the other guards nearby.

“How are we doing on the upside?” Silver shouted from above her.

“Doing good!” one of her guards said.

“Downside?”

“Everything is green.” the voice below said.

“Frontside, are we clear?”

“Affirmative, Captain.”

Squall, we good on the backside?”

Silence.

“Squall?”

Nothing.

“Squall! Report!”

Suddenly a loud cry echoed from behind her. Silver turned around to see what it was but then another cry came from above. And then another one from the front. All the guards were on full alert, their weapons were drawn. Silver took out her dagger. The rain was, however, making impossible to distinguish friend from foe. But then she heard it. A small, faint buzzing noise. Out of the fog, she saw hundreds of figures flying nearby. Their insectoid bodies were illuminated by the flash of lightning. Silver felt herself gulped but she stood her ground. Then all at once, the changelings attack.

-Ponyville: Sweet Apple Acres -

Applejack looked out at the downpour that was pounding her farm into muddiness. The storm came upon them so quickly and suddenly that Applejack barely had enough time to get her apples inside. Now she really has nothing to do but wait it out. This storm really put a damper (quite literally) on her plans. How was she going to get her work done now? Those pegasi really don’t know how to communicate with them about the weather. Applejack shook her head. Well, she probably just sorts these apples before heading to lunch. Applejack went to her sorting bench when she notices that letter Apple Bloom brought.

Applejack shrugged her shoulders. Couldn’t help to see what it was. She put the package down and began to open it up. She uses her mouth and tongue to pull open the letter, revealing a bunch of tissue paper inside. Applejack was not amused. Was this some kind of joke? Did Rainbow Dash plan this? She was about to throw it away when something hard hit her table. The package did contain something. It was a small purple crystal. Applejack tilted her head. It looked like a crystal from the Crystal Empire. But who would send her something like this?

While Applejack was looking down the crystal, a mysterious figure appeared in the doorway. The figure stood there silently for a moment before it began to enter the barn. It slowly closed the door, without making a sound. A large black cloak was covering the figure’s features. But something was glowing from within. A voice began to repeat various words, words of
dark magic. But it was done so quietly that Applejack didn’t notice. Yet the spell had begun.

Suddenly the crystal flashed. Applejack looked down to see energy pulsing from it. It began to radiate a strange magic. She could hear a strong, low droning noise coming from it. Then the crystal began to rise above the table. It was becoming redder and redder. Applejack was completely dumbfounded

“What the hay?” Applejack let out.

Then sparks flew from the crystal. Before Applejack could react, the figure came from behind her and put Applejack in a quick hold. It held her mouth as she tried to scream and struggle out of her attacker’s grip. But it was all in vain as a stream of red, evil magic shot from the crystal, hitting her on the forehead. Applejack felt her whole body go rigid. The crystal began to change, the shape morphing into something different. Something like a small crystal crown. Applejack couldn’t concentrate. The whole room was tilting. The attacker kept her still. Her whole body was completely paralyzed. Then the evil crystal crown floated closer to her. Applejack tries to speak, try to move. But it was fruitless. The crystal crown attached itself to her head and then everything faded away.

-Ponyville: Golden Oaks Library-

Twilight Sparkle was in her comfort zone. She was enjoying her favorite passage in one of her favorite study books (Stars, Planets, and the Magic in Between). It was hard to enjoy peace like this. Sure there were the times she enjoys going out with her friends to do things like help Fluttershy build her wingspeed or the time Rainbow Dash was having trouble finding a new pet. They were all having good times when it was peaceful and safe. Twilight turned to the next page. Heck, she has to admit the times when it was dangerous were even fun. Stopping Discord, saving the Crystal Empire, defeating the Changelings. But those times were over. She was done with those crazy adventures. Now she can enjoy the peace and quiet of her home. She’s glad she lives in the Golden Oak Library. It gave a warm, homey feeling to it. Especially on rainy days like this.

Twilight turned the page. This book was fascinating. It talked about how the stars were connected and that every one of them was pulsing with energy. It was talking how in the past of how ponies use them navigate, both to explore the land and their own destiny. It seems silly now but Twilight could see the appeal. When one is lost in darkness, they tend to use the only sources of light as guides. Twilight would love to help ponies in this way. By being a light, a guide to help them in their trouble times. Like her teacher, Princess Celestia.

After finishing brushing up on her knowledge of stars, Twilight stretched her body. She needs to go out soon. She hasn’t really left the library in days. She is getting a bit too cooped up in here. Too bad it had to storm today. Twilight put her book away. A small frown appeared on her face. She was missing a book. If there was one thing that Twilight prides herself on, it was her organization skills. It was something she deemed necessary to survive in Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. Be it papers, books, or supplies, Twilight would keep everything in their own little places and double check on them to see if they were still there. She would never allow a book on her shelf to go missing.

So, Twilight started to search for the missing book. The library was clean and clutter free. It didn’t take long before Twilight concluded it was no longer down here. It left the basement and the upstairs. Twilight decided to check her basement. The basement was old, dusty place that had the equipment of the previous owner. The place made Twilight feel uneasy. She didn’t believe ghost or curses but there was definitely something off with this place. Twilight found the book lying on top of a desk near one of the machines. Twilight was about to pick it up but something is off. She caught something staring at her.
Twilight blinked. Whatever it was, it was gone. But she could have sworn there was something at the far side of the room. Twilight looked at the book she left down here. It was a research piece of the formations of the constellations and their origins. How they hold a certain part in the beliefs of the old civilizations. Twilight then remember why she brought it down here. She was just researching the possibility of the power of foresight. She heard rumors of certain pony tribes had seers who would look to stars for answers of what threats would possibly come from beyond this realm. Twilight then open to the page she last was on. It was explaining about a mysterious force that was once on Equestria. How the constellations were parallel to such a force. It said there are those who can unlock the stars would unlock unusual power.

Twilight was about to turn the page when a knock came upon the door. Twilight looked up. She didn’t expect anyone today. Oh, well. It was probably one of her friends. Twilight closed the book and set it in her bag. She needed a break anyway. Twilight got up as another knock came, this time more imperative. Twilight realizes that she hasn’t heard from her baby dragon Spike for nearly an hour. Twilight didn’t want to worry. He is probably asleep. But still Twilight called out as she heads out of the basement.

“Spike? Spike?” Twilight called upstairs. “We got a visitor. Where are you?”

Twilight didn’t get a response, so she turns to the stairwell to head back upstairs.

There was a hooded figure standing on the top of the stairs.

“Hello,” Twilight began to say, expecting to see somepony she knows.

The figure didn’t say anything.

“Uh, hello?” Twilight waved her front hoof in front of the figure. “Can I help you?”

Then she saw sparks of magic coming out of the hood.

Twilight immediately felt a cold darkness engulf her.

“What is this?” Twilight let out.

A red gem materialized in front of her from this intruder. The red gem began to spark and shimmer with energy. Waves of magic were emitting from this gem. Dark magic. Twilight tried to look for an escape. But she felt herself frozen in fear. The red gem hummed. It started to rise into the air. Twilight was fixated with the gem’s movement. It was watching a dark sun rising above the horizon. Twilight felt herself shuttered. Then the gem let out a bolt of energy before it flew right at Twilight. Twilight began to let out a scream. She wanted to cry for help, she wants to stop this evil sorcery. It was too late, however. The gem attached to her skin and everything around her fade away.

She felt cold.

So cold.

No.

She has to get up. She has to stop this.

Twilight felt herself being jolted awake. Her body was now in endless, dark void. Nothing could indicate what was, what was down, where the sky was. She just felt herself floating in the endless shadow. Yet she felt movement. Wind was brushing up against her body. Twilight felt herself moving through this darkness. It made her feel infinity small. For how long she was sailing across the darkness, she couldn’t tell. It seems like forever when he found a set of colors in front of her.

There were five of them, each one of them was very, very familiar. Twilight forces herself to move faster. It couldn’t be, it shouldn’t be. Twilight hope it wasn’t but deep down she knew who was in the darkness with her. She finally came to a stop in front of the five columns of light that was present to her. Inside them were her friends.

Her friends were either unconscious or dead. Twilight refused to believe the latter. But it looked so eerie for them to be perfectly still like this. There were held in a column of light that matched with their fur color. Bolts of magic were flashing across the light. Twilight tried to approach them but something was stopping her. For some reason, she couldn’t reach them. Then she heard a voice coming from somewhere nearby. It was a voice that Twilight never thought she would hear
again.

“Lost….Lost....Lost.” the voice said.

“Where are you?” Twilight asked the darkness. “Show yourself!”

But the darkness remains unyielding. Her voice was strangely hollow against it. Twilight looked up and down. There was no platform, no landmarks, and no indication of where she was at. Twilight let a growl of frustration. She shot a spell up to the sky. Twilight looked up before it dissipates. She wondered what it was. Twilight launched herself upwards. Her body was flying against the darkness. As she moves upward, a cold laughter reverberated from all around her. Twilight stopped. She didn’t like this. She felt a cold chill beginning to fill her entire body. Then the voice began again, clearer and louder.

“King of Nightmares, Finder of Fears, the Ruler of the Night.” The voice was ranting. “I am your worst outcome. I have seen your fears, little pony. I have your soul In this darkness, you will lose! In this darkness, you have failed. In this darkness, I will WIN!”

The last words came out like a blast. It sends Twilight flying across the darkness. She let out a cry of despair before she felt herself tumbling in the air. Suddenly she came to a complete stop. Twilight felt her body tighten. Her back legs refusing to move. Twilight opened her eyes to see a wave of green and purple flames erupting in front of her. Twilight felt herself gasp.

“You!” she let out.

The image of King Sombra did not waiver or disappeared. It remains solid and undeniably real as he approached Twilight. King Sombra began to circle around her, his green eyes piercing into her. Twilight tried to move but it was becoming impossible. The strength of King Sombra’s dark magic was overwhelming. Twilight tried to ignore the smug, triumphed look that was plaster on the wicked unicorn’s face.

“You…you…you’re dead.” Twilight panted, her body weaken from the effort.

“Perhaps I was,” King Sombra said thoughtfully. “But, my dear Twilight, when you delved into the knowledge of dark magic as I have, you will learn that there are powers beyond understanding, far beyond your world. When you deal with the forces of darkness, you’ll learn that wherever you are, the dark powers are always awaiting you. It is these powers that are helping me and it is in this void you will meet your fate.”

“You won’t get away with this.” Twilight said as she felt her body glowing. “This isn’t over!”

“Bold until the end.” King Sombra laughed softly. “You can try to stop me but I find it more likely that I have won this victory. Enjoy your time, Twilight. For this is your final fate.”

King Sombra began to walk away. Twilight tries to speak but then a bright column of purple light engulfed her. She felt her body tighten some more. Then voices were coming from all around her. The voices of her friends. They were begging for help. Their cries were torturous to Twilight. She wanted to comfort them. She had to tell them they are okay. But she couldn’t speak. Her body was beginning to shake. Pure fear was overwhelming her. The feeling that something was happening, something she could stop. Images of things that were scaring her. Fears that ran deep in her soul. Before she knew it, Twilight was starting to plead for help, her voice joining the chorus of her friends.

Somepony has to help. Anypony.

-Golden Oak Library-

Thunder rumbled overhead before it came with a loud boom that shook the entire room and jolted Spike awake. Spike rubbed his eyes. The cobwebs of sleep were still clinging to him. Spike stretched his body, his long lizard-like tongue curling up in his mouth. Comparatively to any dragon, Spike was tiny and to put it slightly less scary. Spike couldn’t even count how many times he has been referred to as cute and cuddly. And this was coming from a species that has an absolute fear of dragons. Once upon a time, this might have bothered Spike. But now he was comfortable with living with Twilight Sparkle, the purple unicorn who he had known since he hatched out of his egg. The only pony he would consider family, his only family member really.

“That was a nice nap.” Spike said, patting his purple body. “Guess eating all them gems really did cures what ails me as Twilight would say.”

Spike started to head downstairs. He looked out the window where rain was lashing out fiercely against the window. Bolts of lightning were streaking across the sky with tremendous speed. Spike felt disappointment. He wanted to go out today but this weather seems to say otherwise. Now he probably has to spend his time inside reading some plays from a pony writer long ago with Twilight. Granted that is Spike’s new favorite activity. He never told Twilight this but sometimes he imagines himself on stage reenacting these famous plays. He even performed as the narrator to Hearth’s Warming Eve pageant in Canterlot last year. Spike sighed as he saw a branch fly by the window.

“Hmm, the pegasi are really overdoing it today.” Spike pondered. “I guess this storm was overdue anyway.”

Spike headed downstairs when a knocking came upon the door. Spike doubled his speed.

“Twilight? Twilight?” Spike called out. “There’s someone at the door. Where are you?”

But Spike didn’t get a response. So he turned and open the door.

“Hello?” Spike asked the visitor.

The visitor slumped over, her body nearly crushing Spike. Spike moved out of the way as a pegasus mare staggered into the library. Spike could see that he had a set of silver armor and white Mohawk brand helmet. Spike recognized easily as the symbol of a Royal Guard Captain. The pegasus’s helmet fell off, revealing a mane of silver with white streaks in them. Spike looked at the guard and saw that she was injured. Her armor was scorched and her helmet was battered. The guard collapsed, her body shaking.

“Are you okay, madam?” Spike asked as he rushed to her side.

“Attack…Twilight…The Princesses…” she gasped as he tries to get up.

“What’s going on?” Spike asked, utterly confused. “Who are you?”

“I’m Captain Silver Light, head of the Secret Elite .” The pegasus replied. “I was sent by Princess Celestia to get…Twilight Sparkle….Equestria is under attack!”

Spike took a step back. Equestria is under an attack? But everything seems normal. Sure it was storming a bit that doesn’t mean anything. Yet Spike felt like something was off. It was like a big shadow has covered the land. But who would attack Equestria? There really is no enemies that could have this kind of power, Spike thought. Still, if there is one pony who could fix this and that is Twilight. She can solve anything and Spike has complete faith in her.

“I’ll have to get Twilight.” Spike told Silver. “Just wait here and I’ll be back.”

Spike turned to face the library, thinking she’ll be in the main room. But she wasn’t. Spike saw that the basement door was open. Twilight must be in there. Spike went down the basement door. He and Silver didn’t have to go far. There was a figure that caught his eye at the bottom of the stairs and he noticed a purple leg lying across the bottom step. Spike felt his heart leaped to his throat. He ran over to see that it was Twilight who laid on the ground, her eyes unfocused and her body twitching. A red crown was attached to her head, glowing with malice energy.

“NO!” Spike let out. “Twilight! Twilight! Please get up! Twilight!”

“She won’t wake.” Spike turned to see Silver limping her way towards him.

“What happened to her?” Spike wailed, tears in his eyes. “Is she going to be all right?”

“That’s a Fear Gem,” Silver Edge told the baby dragon. “Powerful, dark magic. Made to immobilize a pony by showing their worst fears that are strongly linked to their soul. That is only one dark unicorn I know that could pull something like has been gone for a long while.”

“You mean-”

“King Sombra.” Silver Light confirmed. “Princess Celestia suspects him when this first began. She entrusted me to deliver the Elements of Harmony to Twilight Sparkle. My convoy was attacked, however. By Changelings. They were able to attack my crew before I escaped. I don’t know how long until King Sombra and the changelings find out I’m here with this.”
Silver Edge pulled a golden box from her bag. In the box, Spike knew they were the Elements of Harmony. Although he only saw them a couple of times, Spike knew what they could do. They were powerful magic, Equestria’s greatest power and defense. It could only be wielded by Twilight and her friends, the ones who were able to redeem Princess Luna, the ones who fought Discord, the mad god of chaos. This was their only hope. It suddenly occurs to Spike why Twilight was under attack. She and her friends were the only ones who could use the Elements of Harmony. They were taken out so King Sombra will have no obstacle in his way. But King Sombra has forgotten one critical error: Spike.

Spike remember the only time he had ever faced King Sombra. It was at the most critical moment of their adventures to the Crystal Empire. He was taking the Crystal Heart away from King Sombra’s trap. Twilight told Spike to deliver the Crystal Heart to Princess Cadence. That he had to be the one to save the Crystal Empire. Spike remember the pressure of doing that task, the fear that was engulfing him as he evaded King Sombra’s dark magic to get the Crystal Heart. And then at the worst moment, the Crystal Heart fell down and Spike dove after it. Together, he and the Crystal Heart fell down to the ground as King Sombra rose up to strike. Spike could see the evil burring in his eyes, the greedy, hungry look that was covering his face. Had Princess Cadence and Shining Armor not intervene, then Spike would shudder to think of what would have happened next. It was in this moment of revelation that Spike felt some resolution. A determined look came upon his face, the same look that Twilight gave him when she told him to deliver the Crystal Heart.

“I have to be the one to remove the Fear Gem off of Twilight.” Spike announced.

“You can’t.” Silver Light told him. “The dark magic is bound to her. The magic will do everything to stop you. Only a powerful unicorn could break the spell. We can only wait until the magic wears off, otherwise, we could be trapped in our own fears.”

“Somepony has to do it.” Spike said. “Somepony has to save Twilight.”

Spike reached for the Fear Gem. As he touched it, he immediately felt power magic shake him. He felt pain blaze across his body and then suddenly he felt himself being shot across the room. Spike hit the bookshelves with enormous force. Books were falling everywhere as Spike shook his head to clear it. Spike let out a groan as he steadies his body. He will not fail. Spike tried again as bolts of magic hit him. Spike slowly but surely to gain footing and began to walk to Twilight. Silver Light was saying something but whether it was to discourage Spike or warn him about the evil magic, Spike couldn’t tell for all he was focusing on was getting that crown off of Twilight.

Spike moved his claws and latch on to the gem. He gripped tightly, not willing to let go of the gem. He could hear a rasping breathing noise coming from somewhere above him. Spike tighten his hold. It was the battle of the wills. Spike think of something that will prevent him from letting go, all the memories that he had. Twilight teaching him how to read, the first time they came to Ponyville, Twilight defeating the Ursa Minor. Suddenly the crown shifted. Spike looked down to see the gem was moving. Spike thought of more memories. He thought of Twilight hugging him after he got Princess Celestia during Twilight’s freak out. The happiness, the joy, the hope…The gem was suddenly moving off of Twilight. Spike was nearly surprised by all this that he almost let go.

“You are doing it!” Silver Light exclaimed. “That’s it!”

Spike began to use all of his strength to lift the gem up and off Twilight. The power of the gem that turned on to Spike. Bolts of electricity were shooting at him from every direction. Spike felt his heart raced. He could almost see the flaming eyes of Sombra. He let out a hiss, his mouth opening wide. The feeling of abandonment was starting to develop in Spike. He let out an angry cry and let out a burst of green flames. The fire consumed the gem causing the magic to disappear. Spike felt relieved before his vision darken. Then Spike felt himself go weak and then he blacked out.

A moment of silence filled the room. Silver Light decide to act quickly. She grabbed Twilight and head to the upper floors. She glanced out the windows.It seems that King Sombra is having creatures patrol the land. Silver Light doesn’t know how he is doing it but it seems King Sombra is searching for them. They need to get out of here quickly. Then she heard soft muttering coming from behind her. Twilight was starting to wake up. The lavender unicorn started to move her legs, then she opens her eyes. She blinked a few times before she woke up completely. Her eyes widen in fear. She stood up, her horn glowing.

“Easy, easy.” Silver Light trotted up to her.

Twilight turned to her. “Who are you?” she demanded. “What’s going on?”

“Sorry, I didn’t introduce myself. “ Silver Edge bowed despite the pain in her neck. “My name is Silver Light, guard captain of the Mythic Elite Branch. We guarded Equestria’s deepest secrets. I was sent to Ponyville to give you this.”
Silver Light pulled out the golden box. She set it down in front of Twilight who open it with her magic. Inside the Elements of Harmony were glowing with intense power. Twilight Sparkle shielded her eyes from the shine. She looked up to Silver Light.
“Most of Equestria is under attack.” Silver Edge informed her. “Shortly after dawn theses mysterious storm clouds appeared out of nowhere and have been pelting the land with rain, wind, and lightning. Before Princess Celestia and Princess Luna left, I was instructed to give you the Elements. I had my best team of pegasi flew me over here but we were attacked by a group of changelings. It seems we are under attack by more than just dark magic. There are all sorts of monsters attacking Equestria: demons, spirits, windigos...”

“What?” Twilight exclaimed. “But the wendigos were rendered powerless over a thousand years. There is not enough hatred and anger in Equestria to fuel their powers. How can they be here and become this strong? Changelings were banished to across the world.”

“I don’t know but somepony out there is controlling them.” Silver Light looked out the window. “They are coordinated and they seem to be attacking the bigger cities first. We need to get going. I don’t how long it will be until they find you out you are awake.”

“King Sombra” Twilight let out.

“Yes, I figured he would have a hoof in this.” Silver Edge said. “You do realize that he probably attack you and your friends with separate attacks. He knew you would be by yourself. Had your dragon not destroy the Fear Gem then he would have you out of the way Now let’s-”

“Wait, Spike removed the Fear Gem.” Twilight inquired. “I thought you did. Only a powerful unicorn could tamper with dark magic.”
“Yeah, well he figured out a way.” Silver said pointing to where Spike was lying.

Twilight turned and let out a scream. “SPIKE!” she let out.

Twilight rushed to Spike’s side. The dragon seems to be unconscious. His eyes kept shifting and kept moving his head.

Twilight felt his heart break into two at the mere sight of it all. He didn’t want Spike to have suffered. He was just a baby dragon.

“We have to help him.” Twilight told Silver Light. “There must be a way to heal him. Do you know any healing potions?”

“Yes,” Silver Edge replied. “But I don’t if they will work on a dragon. Besides, we have more important things to do than to take care of a dragon…”

Silver Edge stopped for Twilight was giving her a fiery glare.

“DON’T,” she growled. “YOU SAY THAT!”

Silver Light bowed her head in shame.

“He’s my baby dragon and he shouldn’t have to suffer like this.” Twilight told Silver Edge flatly. “He has been with me ever since I started going to magic school. And I will not allow him to be harm any further!”

“Sorry,” she said, trying to amend her mistake. “I didn’t mean to downgrade him. I'm not just used to having a dragon living peacefully amongst ponykind. I have served The Canterlot Royal Guard for a long time. I have seen all sorts of conflicts. Griffins, manticores, changelings, and even dragons. Yet seeing Equestria attack like this, it...terrifies me to the core. I don’t think there is a way we can win. The Royal Sisters are gone and we don’t have a clue of what is going on.”

“But we have the Elements” Twilight reminded her. “We have a chance.”

Silver Light let a long sigh. “Fool,” she began. “My best soldiers were barely able to escape from the changelings. King Sombra has the Royal Sisters. We don’t know where these storm clouds are being produced. The type of energy to feed this kind of magic is unprecedented and we have no plan, no backup, and no weapons to stop them. I’m sorry but what chance do we have?”

Twilight closed her eyes, considering her options. All around them were powerful creatures that were able to shoot lightning, fierce winds as well as now. Her friends were in separate areas in Ponyville and made it difficult for even the royal guards to reach her place. It seems King Sombra is playing a clever game. He somehow knew that Twilight would be separate from her friends. If that is the case, then why just her? He could easily pick a day where all six of them were doing their own….thing. Twilight suddenly realize what she saw in her nightmares. It wasn’t an illusion, it was real! An anger began to burn inside her heart. Twilight realized what she must do.

“I need the Elements.” Twilight said as she lifts the Elements of Harmony into her bag and into her back.

“What are you doing?” Silver Light asked.

“What needs to be done,” Twilight told him. “I have to save my friends. King Sombra made a mistake, a huge one. He thought that he had taken care of me. That I would be easy to stop. No, stopping me is the hard part. He already achieved the easy part of ruling Equestria. Now it is time for me to ensure that his reign wouldn’t last long. Take care of Spike. Do whatever you can, use whatever healing potion you have to help him because I’m going to save Equestria.”

Silver Light staggered. “How?”

“By getting my friends back together” Twilight explained. “By gathering together and uniting against King Sombra. He can throw whatever he has at us because we will do our best to ensure he wouldn’t win. He made a mistake by attacking us. Now it is time to show him the error of his ways. My friends and I are a burning light that will pierce the darkest shadows. We have done it before and we will do it again!”

“But how do you plan-” Silver Light started to ask but then Twilight raised her horn and vanished in a puff of light and smoke, leaving her question unanswered.

Silver Edge looked out into the window, the storm raging outside.

“I hope you know what you are doing, Twilight.” Silver Light said to the small space where Twilight was at. “Because the fate of Equestria hangs in the balance and we can’t afford to lose. Heh, I guessed I was right about you. When you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything. I just hope that can forgive me for what is about to happen.”

Silver felt herself become emotional.

“Yes,” she said quietly but firmly. “I do you believe you are ready.”

Then Silver Light picked up Spike and tried her best to heal him as the battle continues on outside.

“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”
-EDITH WHARTON

Author's Note

This story takes place in Season Three timeline, roughly between Wonderbolts Academy and Apple Family Reunion This is the approximate point in the time where my timeline will diverge from the canon timeline. Several reasons for this but I tell you one for now.

Reason #1: Want Twilight to be a unicorn for this story.