Author's Note

Credit for the basis of this chapter goes to the following people:
Flint-Lock, H.G Wells and Phillip Jose Farmer, whose work partially inspired "The Last Birthday."

17 Phoenix

“So, it's finally ending? I'll actually live to see the death of Equus after having spent four billion years alive.”

“It's really a sight. Solaris is at his end. I still remember how I felt when I raised him for the first time. It was thrilling to have earned my cutie mark,” Celestia said

“You've been wearing that necklace since you returned from the other side. You still miss them,” Knight Shield commented

“Of course I do. They were another family to me. I remember those moments very well. Especially, when I have a photographic memory,” Brian said looking down at the necklace

○ FLASHBACK: HUMANQUESTRIA 46 YEARS AFTER GRADUATION ○

“Our friends wish to see us again. It's been quite some time since we headed through the portal,” Twilight said

“Approximately, 46 years since our last visit on Halloween on October 31, 2036. It's now October 12, 2082. This will probably be our final get together.”

Brian, Twilight and Sunset headed through the portal to the other side. Their appearance altered slightly, that although they were in their late 80s and early 90s, it didn't show. In fact, each still looked the same when they left so long ago.

“Here you go. Your usual mode of transportation,” Discord said tossing Brian a set of car keys

After climbing inside the car, Brian drove to the home where their friends were staying. Although time aged them, each was still recognizable. The only difference was the appearance of wrinkles and grey hair everyone had.

“Welcome back, all of you. It's been so long,” Rarity said

“A long 46 years. Perhaps a picture to commemorate what may be our final gathering?”

“Of course,” Applejack said

Brian handed his phone to an orderly to have them take the pictures before handing it back.

“We do have something for you and Sunset; Brian. We want you to have our necklaces from Camp Everfree,” Sci-Twi said as each removed their necklaces

“Thank you all so very much.”

Discord popped up and made a second copy of the stones and engraved a simplified version of their cutie marks on the stones. Both Brian and Sunset removed their necklaces to add the new stones. He left the ring in the center and placed his and Sunset’s stones on either side, followed by the others. Sunset followed her husband's idea about placement. Once that was done, Discord put a hand on them to make sure they passed unharmed through the portal.

“How have you been in Equestria,” Rainbow Dash asked

“It's been eventful. After Sunset returned home, the two of us got married.”

“I thought you were married to Octavia? What happened,” Applejack asked

“It's not unheard of for someone to have multiple mates. Brian has two daughters with Octavia; Harmony and Melody. The two of us have a son together named Eclipse,” Sunset added

“Congratulations to both of you. We've seen our families once a week. They should be here in the next few days,” Pinkie said “I'd throw a party, but I'm afraid of something bad happening.”

“This is a celebration of its own. Old friends getting together is enough to celebrate.”

“We do have one request for you. The six of us wish to be buried together in a mausoleum,” Rainbow Dash said “We might not be able to see you tomorrow. We all know we're going to die soon.”

“Will do. I'll personally pay for the construction of it for the six of you.”

“Thank you. This will be the last time we get to say we love you three,” Rarity said

“I'm sorry we weren't able to visit you girls much. That's probably my biggest regret.”

“Do you mind receiving a piece of advice from a friend,” Sci-Twi asked

“Of course. What is it?”

“Before heading to the grave, don't have any regrets. It is true this is the first time we've all been together in many years, but it makes no difference. Our paths caused us to divert from one another, but in the end, everyone's path ends up in the same place,” Sci-Twi said

“Thank you. I suppose you're right. The Grim Reaper waits to escort us home. Regardless of everything, I love you all.”

After a few hours of reminiscing, Brian and the girls headed back home with the promise of visiting the next day. When they arrived, a series of ambulances were removing six bodies from the house.

“Who are they?”

“Twilight Sparkle and her friends. They passed peacefully in their sleep during the night,” the paramedic said “Did you happen to know the deceased?”

“We did. We came from out of town to visit them yesterday. In fact, we promised to visit today as well.”

“I'm sorry for your loss with the six girls,” the paramedic said

“Thank you. As I don't know their families, the coroner may have to notify them.”

After contacting their families, Brian agreed to pay for the construction of the mausoleum for his friends. The three planned to extend their stay until it was finished. A week later, the girls were interred together as it was sealed.

“Resquiate in Pace. Sadly, no one will ever remember what you girls did,” Brian said making a cross over his chest

“I'm glad I was able to meet you. I hope you were able to accomplish what you set out to do,” Twilight said

“Thank you girls for everything. I never told you just how much you meant to me. I honestly don't know where'd I be without you,” Sunset said bowing her head

● CURRENT TIME ●

“I wish mom and aunt Twilight could see this,” Eclipse said sadly

“And Cadence,” Flurry Heart added

“I'm sorry for my actions, all that time ago.”

“I am surprised that Octavia and the others were able to live for a thousand years after their ascension,” Luna said

○ FLASHBACK: 3,500 YEARS AFTER GRADUATION ○

“After seeing our friends die so long ago, I don't want to be an alicorn anymore,” Sunset said wiping her eyes

“I've looked through everything I can find, but there's nothing about removing immortality,” Twilight said sadly

The two were sitting in front of the mausoleum for the other Elements of Harmony. All six cutie marks were carved into the marble building. Inside the building, were the caskets of Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash on one side, while Applejack and Fluttershy were buried on the opposite wall. Rarity’s casket was placed high against the back wall, leaving the spot underneath for Twilight. In the center would be Sunset’s casket.

It may have been 2,500 years since they died, but both girls could remember like it was yesterday. Each thankfully died peacefully in their sleep, but it hurt knowing they weren't completely immortal. Octavia was buried in a separate mausoleum with Vinyl. While Octavia died peacefully in her sleep, Vinyl unfortunately died during a concert over her mixing board thousands of years ago, although the cause was unknown as she didn't take any drugs or alcohol.

“Do you mind if we joined you,” Cadence asked sitting down with Flurry Heart

“Of course not. We're just thinking,” Twilight said

“I can help out. Luna and Celestia already know what I'm planning. Come to the throne room and we'll talk,” Brian said

The girls headed inside to see only alicorns waiting for them. Luna and Celestia were sitting in their thrones as usual, flanked by Eclipse and Knight Shield. A small table with a goblet and knife sat next to Brian.

“Which of you are participating?”

“Both Twilight and I want to end it,” Sunset said

“Flurry and I as well,” Cadence added

“Unfortunately, Flurry can't participate in this.”

“Why can't I participate,” Flurry asked

“This is a dark ritual that takes away a specific part from someone. The other three ascended to alicorns and could be changed, you were born an alicorn, and are therefore exempt.”

Brian grabbed the knife and cut each of the girls and deposited a few drops of blood in to goblet as the wounds closed on their own.

“Are you ready? There's no going back afterwards,” he asked as the girls nodded

“I give to you, oh dark lord, the blood required for the sacrifice. These three females: Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer and Mi Amore Cadenza wish to be removed from the burden of immortality. Grant that to them along with a final year of peaceful rest before the end.”

The blood that was sitting in the goblet disappeared, while the girls were surrounded by a dark red mist. Moments later, the mist disappeared and the three returned to their original unicorn forms.

“Here's the thing, the three of you will have one year of life. Simply put, no illness will affect you during this time. While the date doesn't matter, its October 13th. On this date next year, you will die peacefully in your sleep.”

“Where did you find this ritual at? I've scoured through every book in the castle and didn't find anything,” Twilight demanded

“There's one book you've NEVER checked, because it's not for your eyes.”

“Impossible! Which book,” she asked skeptically

“Firstly, you never tried that room downstairs, although it was agreed never to enter it again. And secondly, this is the book,” Brian said holding Lucifer’s book

“Why can't I see it,” she asked failing to grab it

“Sorry, this is funny. I've never mentioned it, but I was born with a photographic memory. I can recall events exactly. We've had this conversation thousands of years ago, after my first trip to Hell. The two of you are still connected to the Elements of Harmony and can't touch dark magic objects,” he said with a chuckle

“Damn. The one time I can't read a book, and it's the one that would help me,” she said dejectedly

“It's funny, this was the same ritual I used on the moon to relieve me of my vampiric nature,” Luna said

“You were a vampire? I never read anything about it,” Twilight said

“It was personal and kept out of history. As to how it happened, I honestly don't know,” Luna replied

After they departed, Brian began carving the tombstone for Cadence as well as the caskets for all three. If asked, they were told to say a curse was placed on them, making them vulnerable.

As he said, one year later, the citizens of Ponyville and Canterlot gathered to witness the funeral of Twilight and Sunset. Luna and Celestia carried Twilight’s casket into the mausoleum and placed it in the back wall, while Brian and Eclipse brought Sunset’s inside and sealed both up. Both buildings were designed without doors so visitors could see their actual resting place.

“Now you can be with our friends. Finally, the Elements of Harmony have been reunited together. Resquiate in Pace,” Brian said making a cross over his chest

“Goodbye to both of my students. I will see you again someday,” Celestia said bowing her head

“Bye mom. Thanks for everything,” Eclipse said

“Goodbye to both of you,” Knight Shield said making a cross against his chest

“Rest well, girls. Be at peace,” Luna said

“Goodbye Fluttershy; girls. Thank you for being my friend,” Discord said sadly removing a hat from his head

After the girls were finally interred inside, a spell was placed around the monument to prevent damage to it. A garden with seven lifelike statues was constructed in front as a reminder to everyone. Across from their mausoleum was one dedicated to the Pillars of Equestria with similar lifelike statues in front. The entire area was named the ‘Heroes and Heroines of Equestria’ in tribute of their sacrifices. The five alicorns then proceeded to the Crystal Empire to assist in Cadence’s funeral.

“I hate you, Brian! This is your fault,” Flurry Heart said through tears hitting him

“Flurry, they made their decision. I'm sorry you had to witness this. At least your mom is now with Shining Armor,” Celestia said reassuringly

“May you enjoy the trip to Paradise. Hopefully one day, all of us can be reunited in the afterlife.”

● CURRENT TIME ●

“I still can't forgive you for taking my mom away from me,” Flurry Heart said

“Perhaps a final piece of advice. The human Twilight Sparkle told me before she died. Don't go to the grave with regrets. Everyone makes their own choices in their lives. Cadence wished to be free from her immortality and I granted it.”

“You're right. It's just hard to get used to. I'm sorry,” Flurry said

“It's all right. I still remember when my parents died. It hurts, but I force myself to live through it. What's worse is everyone of our friends died on the same date; October 13th. That happens to be my birthday and a reminder of those I lost.”

“Although a change in subject, there is one thing I won't forget. I never got a look at the bastard who scarred me,” Eclipse said

Eclipse brought a hoof to his face and felt the scar. Some time during battle, a blade was slashed over his face, starting in the middle of his forehead before passing through his left eye and ending at the corner of his muzzle in a giant crescent shape. While alicorns are immortal and can't be injured, the assailant used an enchanted blade in the attack.

“I remember that moment. The Five Tribes’ War was caused by a misunderstanding,” Celestia replied

“How could any of us forget the Great War. It was started by that dumbass Neighsay and his idiotic belief that ponies were above everyone else.”

“I don't know if we should really insult the dead,” Luna said

“Exceptions can be made. Especially, for him,” Knight Shield argued

○ FLASHBACK: 10,000 YEARS AFTER GRADUATION ○

“This has been a misunderstanding! Thorax, Cinder, Prince Rutherford Grandpa Gruff; the opinions of Neighsay do not reflect everyone else's. We do not wish conflict with any of you. It would destroy the bonds that the Elements of Harmony forged between our nations,” Celestia pleaded

“Nonsense! How do we know you didn't plant those ideas in him? The Elements of Harmony are legends, there isn't proof of them ever existing,” Grandpa Gruff argued

“Believe what you want, but that is the truth! Neighsay thought of himself as better than everyone else. None of us want conflict. The bloodshed is for nothing. At least allow us to try and forge an agreement with everyone. Punishment for Neighsay can be determined by everyone that was harmed.”

“My dragons thrive on bloodshed. We were allies until you turned your backs on us. When our dragons were fighting against one another, you did nothing to help,” Cinder replied

“That's not true at all! We tried to assist and you turned us away to, and I quote, ‘settle our differences internally’,” Brian countered

“And we did. But it would have been nice to have Equestria’s support,” Cinder said

“And we would have helped, had you let us,” Celestia said

Both alicorns returned to the castle where Celestia decided to take her frustrations out. Brian summoned multiple kick bags for Celestia to use.

“Dammit! None of them could see reason! War is the last thing we need,” Celestia said angrily kicking a bag across the room into a wall

“Sister, Coal has finished with our new armor and weapons. Ignis said he would be joining us,” Luna said ducking as a second bag impacted the wall

“Good thing all three guards were merged into one. I figured it was best to focus on combat training in order to protect us against outside threats. We know blood will be spilt unnecessarily, but this is ridiculous.”

“Brian, good to see you,” Ignis said entering the room

“And you; Ig, my old friend. Are you going to be okay fighting against your own kind,” Brian said hugging him

“There's no demons here. Coal told me all about my birth, being a resident of Hell and how I am the reborn version of your Nightmare form. I'll be the last line of defense, especially being the only one who can use Hellfire,” Ignis replied

“Dad, the guard is assembled. How are we going to do this,” Eclipse asked entering the throne room

“The battalion will be separated into thee companies under the command of Luna, Celestia and myself. You're going to take a small squad of earth ponies and try to sabotage their defenses. Dig under them and set off explosives. We'll use that as a signal to start our attack.”

“Got it. You can count on me,” Eclipse said

“Del, you are going to stay here and back up Ignis. Are the teargas canisters ready?”

“Of course. They'll be used to disable anyone who's dumb enough to attack the castle,” Knight Shield answered

The next day at dawn, the sun was left to rise on its own without the guidance of Celestia as she was preoccupied. Standing on the front lines of the guards were Luna, Celestia and Brian. Both princesses were wearing golden armor and carried claymores strapped on their side. Brian wore his original armor and had his demonic blades on his forelegs and dragon scale sword on his side.

“So, it comes down to war. I'm sorry we couldn't have settled our differences peacefully,” Celestia said sadly

“Perhaps if you survive, we may talk,” Cinder taunted

“Enough talking,” Grandpa Gruff said

Eclipse had two groups of six earth ponies tunneling under the enemy with dynamite to destroy their defenses. Using the explosions as a signal, the alicorns charged into the confusion.

“The explosions were a diversion! Prepare for assault,” Cinder ordered

“Griffins, take to the sky,” Grandpa Gruff ordered

Many dragons and griffins took to the air to have the advantage in the battle. Pegasi guards took flight to meet them while the remaining guards defended against the reminder. Brian drew his twin blades and charged into the fray attacking the nearest griffins in his path. One ended up having its front claws removed, while its partner found itself without a head. He returned the blades and drew the sword instead to defend against the dragon that landed in front of him.

“So long, puny pony,” the dragon taunted

Brian ran his lightning through the blade before standing on his back hooves and charging. The blade sliced through the tail and cauterizing the wound as Brian picked up the fallen limb. He swung the tail into its owner's face, causing it to immediately collapse. Some time in the confusion, a hooded figure attacked Eclipse before disappearing in the midst of battle.

“Ahh, fuck,” Eclipse yelled

Brian raced over to his son and used his magic to stop the flow of blood and clean up the wound.

“What's it look like,” Eclipse asked

“The wound is clean but will scar. Someone used an enchanted blade to carve a crescent into your face. Retreat to the castle and that's an order.”

“Dammit. I hope you find the perpetrator and give them the same treatment,” his son replied

“I'll try. Be safe son.”

When the dust settled that evening; both literally and figuratively, many were injured, but surprisingly very few deaths occurred. Luckily, all those who were injured would be able to live, with some having difficulties, such as the tailless dragon, or the griffin without front claws.

“Tomorrow, we'll gather at your castle discuss a treaty between our tribes,” an exhausted Cinder said

“Agreed. We were lucky only one died, even if it was one of my griffins,” Grandpa Gruff said

Albeit reluctantly, Cinder and Grandpa Gruff were joined by Thorax and Prince Rutherford in their trip to Canterlot for the treaty. Celestia and Brian led them outside to the garden, followed by Knight Shield and a bandaged Eclipse.

“You mentioned the Elements of Harmony being legends. I thought we should have this meeting surrounded by them.”

“We have another guest joining us. Bring him out,” Celestia said

Luna arrived with a bound Neighsay in tow. A knife was also floating alongside Luna that was stained with blood.

“I have nothing to apologize about. All I did was let these lesser creatures know what I think of them,” Neighsay said

“You're lucky I don't take that blade and carve you up, for what you did to me,” Eclipse said removing the bandages

“I did give you a nice reminder of how mortal you actually are. I found a nice book that allows even the mighty alicorn rulers to be injured. You should be thankful that it was only a facial scar,” Neighsay replied sarcastically

“For you actions, there's only one punishment fitting,” Celestia said

“You are hereby banished from Equestria and allied countries. Step foot into any of them and you will be executed,” Brian said applying a charm to Neighsay

“You can't do this,” Neighsay said

“Considering you are the cause of the battle, it's a much better option then just executing you now.”

He was teleported out of the area with no destination in mind. Brian didn't care where Neighsay ended up. Usually doing so could result in death or worse for the person being teleported.

“First, where were you two? Thorax, Rutherford, we expected you to assist in battle,” Cinder said angrily

“While we were angry at what was said, both Prince Rutherford and I understood the comments from one person don't necessarily reflect the opinions of everyone else,” Thorax explained

“Thorax and I did not want to see innocent blood spilled,” Rutherford added

“Thank you. Perhaps we can work on negotiating a treaty,” Celestia suggested

“Of course. This was a misunderstanding. The actual culprit was punished,” Thorax said

While it may have taken a few hours, an agreement was reforged between everyone. The boundaries remained the same between tribes and they agreed to assist if needed. Both Ignis and Coal were called back to Hell and left when the others were busy.

● CURRENT TIME ●

“What happened when you teleported Neighsay,” Celestia asked

“I honestly don't know. I booted him out, not caring to where. If he died due to my mistake, so be it.”

“That bastard deserved to be punished. Other than scarring me, who knows how many others may have been affected,” Eclipse said

“One thing I only partially remember is sleeping in a coffin,” Flurry Heart said

“The Crystal Takeover. I honestly don't remember much, despite the photographic memory, but I remember that clearly.”

○ FLASHBACK: UNKNOWN TIME AFTER GRADUATION ○

“This wasn't supposed to happen. A rogue group actually taking the Crystal Empire hostage, and killing Flurry Heart? Del, you and I have to get her out.”

“Why us? Couldn't it be someone else,” Knight Shield asked

“Who? The fairy fucking godmother? Casper? The plan is simple. All we do is sneak in, stick her in a coffin and wheel her out.”

“Yeah? And when do things ever go according to plan,” Deltorix asked sarcastically

“No idea. Now let's go.”

Brian changed his appearance to that of a red unicorn with a blue mane and tale. Knight Shield was altered into a grey unicorn with black a black mane and tale. Neither had cutie marks to be unrecognizable.

“Dude, really? You couldn't think of anything else,” Del asked

“First thing that came to mind.”

After their chat, the two grabbed a chariot and threw a coffin in the back before driving to the Crystal Empire.

“Morning. We're here to collect the body. Mind directing us,” Brian asked as they wheeled a casket with them

“It's this way. How'd you know about it,” a pony in a black robe asked

“When you work with the dead as long as we have, we can sense a new body. It's technical to a point we don't understand,” Knight Shield added, making up bullshit on the fly

“Down that hall, first room on the right,” the robed pony said

Once the two entered the room, Brian checked for a pulse and knew Flurry Heart was just sleeping. Once they lifted the body into the casket, Brian knocked on the lid twice to let Flurry know they were friends. After wheeling the casket out of the palace, the two alicorns lifted the casket into the carriage and drove back to Canterlot.

“Wakey, wakey.”

“Sleep well,” Deltorix added

“I was stabbed in the chest and left to die. Not to mention, waking up in a coffin, how should I feel,” Flurry Heart asked

“You're alive. It could be worse.”

“You're right, it could be,” Flurry Heart admitted

● CURRENT TIME ●

“That was the worst moment for me,” Flurry said

“Not too many people can say they slept in a coffin. Besides, you were lucky you were just stabbed in the chest.”

“Would anyone care for a drink? I should have a barrel of wine at the castle,” Celestia asked changing the subject of reminiscing

“How long have you had that for, sister,” Luna asked

“Since we were 18 years old. I bought it and put a spell to protect the container. It's been aging since that time,” Celestia replied

“Multi-billion year old wine? I'm game,” Deltorix said

“Same. I made a promise to myself about not drinking, but considering I'm about to die; it's no problem to break.”

With everyone in agreement, they headed back to the castle and to the throne room. Celestia excused herself to retrieve the barrel, while Luna grabbed some salad.

“Well, since this may very well be our last meal, anyone want something in particular?”

“Considering you and I are human, how's about a couple steaks,” Knight Shield asked

“Found it. Having meat? I'll have what you're having as well,” Celestia said

“Why not? The six of us are all that's left on Equus. No one's going to care about meat eating,” Luna added

Brian removed a small setup for a campfire and cooked the six steaks to be well done, before everyone sat down to enjoy the steak and salad with a glass of wine. Never having had any alcohol, Brian and Knight Shield were satisfied with one glass each, while the four others enjoyed more.

“I'm completely plastered! If anyone wants something, I'll give it to you,” a drunk Celestia said

“What she said,” Luna added

“Thinking what I'm thinking,” Knight Shield whispered

“Well, we both hoped to suffer ‘death by snu snu’. This is last chance to go out with a bang,” Brian whispered back

Brian walked over and whispered something in Celestia’s ear, while Del went to Luna. Each of the three males proceeded to have sex with the princesses in turn. After a while, the six headed back outside and returned to the Heroes’ Garden to spend time amongst their fallen comrades.

“SO TIRED. PLEASE LET ME REST,” Solaris said

“Hang in there, my friend. It'll be over soon.”

“Please hold on a little longer. That's all we ask,” Celestia added

“Before I forget, let's get a couple final pictures.”

Brian and Deltorix stood next to one another, Luna and Celestia next to them, with Flurry Heart and Eclipse on the ends. The first picture taken had the expanding red sun in the background, illuminating them. The second had the both mausoleums behind them, so they could be surrounded by their friends.

“I don't pray often; but Del, feel free to join in,” Brian said dropping to his knees as his brother joined him

“I pray to thee, deities above and below. God and Lucifer, thank you for granting me a second life. I may have made mistakes in my life, but they allowed me to move forward and become the man I am today. While I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for I have already beaten every obstacle in my way. I go to the grave today with no regrets as I have accomplished everything I set out to do. Amen.”

“Amen,” Deltorix added

“Amen,” Discord said stepping out of a portal in a priest’s clothing with his hands clasped “The two of you have been given a stay of execution. You will be returning to your home. I'll give you time to say your final goodbyes.”

“I love you all. I'm sorry to leave you like this.”

“You were never from here, so it's only fair for the two of you to return to your home. I ask you one thing, don't forget about us,” Celestia said hugging them

“I will never forget any of you. Luna, I promise to rename my videogame character after you. Thank you all for everything these past billion years.”

“You're welcome. Thank you for everything,” Luna said

Brian walked over to Octavia and Vinyl’s grave while Knight Shield headed to Rose’s.

“Goodbye, both of you. I'll never forget the time we spent together. Thank you Octavia, for standing by me when I changed into Ignis, way back when. I'm proud to say that our girls were one of the best moments in my life, I'll never change. We'll meet again on the other side,” Brian said kissing the grave

“Twilight; girls, thank you for being there. I can never repay your kindness all of you showed me over the years. I promise to remember you. I love you,” Brian said kissing the ground in front.

‘We'll meet again,’ it may have been his imagination, but Brian was sure he heard it

“Goodbye, my dear Rose. I'm sorry you had to leave so early. Sorry we never tried for a child of our own. If I could go back, I would gladly change that,” Knight Shield said

As the six rejoined together, Brian removed a few bottles of alcohol for a final toast.

“One last drink before we leave. Here's to Equus. Thank you for everything.”

“To Equus,” everyone said raising their bottles

“Gents; ready to go,” Discord asked

“I'm ready. Goodbye, everyone,” Deltorix answered

“Goodbye and goodnight. Goodbye Solaris,” Brian said with a bow “I love you all.”