Bitter Autumn

"We're almost ready. Pinkie Pie and Applejack are the last to go."

"Who do we go for first," Rainbow asked.

"I was thinking we could make things small and sleek now. If we split up in pairs and cover more ground, both teams can reunite with a friend each, and we can all meet up in the center of town. It'll also make it more difficult to track all of us."

"Sounds good. I'll take Flutters with me. You, Rarity, and Spike go for AJ. Knowing Pinkie, she'll probably already have figured out something's up. Whichever group gets back first will wait."

"Right. Get going you two. There's no time to waste."

As expected, Pinkie Pie's Pinkie sense already had her awake and alert. Understanding the extreme circumstances of the situation, she allowed herself to revert to her original form. A hyperactive mare simply wouldn't do in a situation like this. Upon Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash's arrival, the specifics were explained, and she joined up with them without the slightest hint of resistance.

Applejack was a very different scenario. Assuming it was some kind of prank, she resisted even leaving her home. It wasn't until Twilight forcefully levitated her that she finally relented and let them show her the proof. She was annoyed wither herself for being so stubborn once the reality of it all set in.

Rainbow Dash's group was the first to arrive. It didn't take long before Twilight showed up with her half as well.

"We're all here," the purple Alicorn stated, practically sighing in relief.

"Darn it, Twilight, what's going on in this town," Applejack demanded.

"I'm stumped. These things are immune to magic, and because they're made of pure bone, it's going to be hard to find a weak point where these beasts are at least vulnerable to something."

"Great," Rainbow said sarcastically.

"Maybe we should go to Canterlot now," Fluttershy suggested.

"Right," Twilight concurred, "We can stock up on supplies while we're there."

"We'll need to fly to the castle, won't we," Rarity asked.

"Yes. I'll carry everyone except Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy once we get there."

"Let's move out," Pinkamena directed with a new level of authority.

"Roger," Twilight complied.

The seven friends left the center of Ponyville, their next destination: the stronghold of the equestrian monarchy, Canterlot castle.