The Balance

Chapters

The Mysterious Figure
The Fall of Wrath
The Birth of Discord
The Legacy of Spike
The Mobilization of the Elements
The Meeting of the Sins
The First Encounter
The Teachers and the Students

The Mysterious Figure

On top of a hill, under a large tree, sat six colorful ponies and a small green and purple dragon. A blanket covered the ground below them as they munched on snacks from a number of baskets, sharing with one another. A lilac Unicorn with a dark mane split by a dark pink stripe going down the middle was reading a book, while a yellow Pegasus with a long pink mane appeared to be chatting with two birds and a squirrel, which made their home in the tree. Across from them, a rainbow maned, sky blue Pegasus was hoof wrestling with an orange Earth pony with a blonde mane tied in a ponytail and wearing a Stetson. An energetic pink Earth pony with an equally chaotic pink mane cheered for both of them, unable to decide which of her friends she wanted to win. Finally, outside of the shade, on a vanity couch, sat a white Unicorn with a curly purple mane and tail enjoying the warm sunlight on her fur. The dragon walked up to her carrying two red drinks each with a few ice cubes floating on top of it. He offered one to the white Unicorn who accepted it gratefully, causing the dragon to blush lightly as he sat on the grass next to her and sipped on his own drink.

It was the definition of peaceful, and it struck a sad chord in the heart of the observer. He would be breaking that peace, something he had not had in a very long time. A tinge of jealousy and regret lay on the stranger’s shoulders, but nothing would break the resolve driving him.

The yellow Pegasus was the first to notice the cloaked figure advancing towards their picnic, her animal friends retreating to their tree. “Um… did one of you… invite someone else?”

“Fluttershy what are you talking about?” The blue Pegasus looked where her friend was staring, noticing the strange individual.

“Careful, Dashie, my nose itches. They’re dangerous, whoever they are.” The energetic pink pony lowered herself into a feral position, ready to pounce.

“So then, should we get ready to attack him? Pinkie and her Pinkie sense are never wrong, after all,” the lilac Unicorn asked, firsthand experience with the strange phenomenon of her friend’s ability concerning her.

“Twilight, ah’ reckon they ain’t attacked anyone yet, but we best be ready to defend ourselves if they do.” A tilt of her hat produced a rope pre-formed into a lasso.

“No need to act like savages, Applejack. Maybe, they just want to ask us something, or compliment us, we do look quite good today.” The white Unicorn puffed her mane up. “And if not, we’ll destroy them.”

The dragon had stayed silent the entire time. He could feel the cloaked figure’s eyes on him, causing a cold shiver to run down the green spikes along his back and tail.

A strong voice, laced with a sliver of ice, broke in, “I’m here for the dragon. Spike, I believe. I would prefer to avoid a fight, as it would not end well for you. So, young one, come with me quietly,” the voice softened, “please.”

Spike had no intention of letting this guy, a new realization brought on from the voice, hurt his friends, especially Rarity. Normally, he wouldn’t believe anyone could take all of the girls, but there was something about him, something strange. With that, he had decided to go with the cloaked figure. Scared out of his mind, he stepped forward.

“No. I’m not sure who you are, and I hardly care. We are the Elements of Harmony, saviors of Equestria, and you are not taking my assistant.” Twilight's horn glowed menacingly, aimed at the stranger.

“I won’t let you touch a scale on my Spikey-Wikey’s head.” Rarity rushed to her friend’s side, ready to defend the young dragon

A growl came in response, from the now feral Pinkie Pie.

“No weirdo, is taking our friend anywhere!” Dash spread her wings, her war face on.

“Ya best get, before we make ya get.” The lasso twirled in the air above Applejack, as she prepared for the worse.

“YEA!... If you don’t mind that is.” Fluttershy hid behind her mane after the sudden outburst.

The stranger remained un-phased, instead looking straight at the target of his demand. “Come with me peacefully. It’s for the best.”

“I’m going with him,” Spike replied. Something about the way the cloaked figure spoke seemed genuine. It was both calming and concerning, he truly believed he could take the girls, and Spike believed him.

“No way!” Rainbow Dash sprang from the ground and hurled towards the object of her aggression as fast as she could in the few yards that separated them. Black fur shot from the cloak as one hoof made contact with the front of her leg and the other grabbed the back of her shoulder. The dark figure spun with her in a circle before crashing her into the ground. No crater was formed where she contacted the floor. In fact, she didn’t even appear hurt. But before a sigh of relief could even be expressed by her friends, a hoof tapped the back of her head, knocking her unconscious.

“Horseapples! She never waits. We should have attacked him together.”

“It’s fine Applejack, she doesn’t look hurt. Anyways, now we know we’re dealing with a pony. I’ll lift him up, and you lasso him. Even if he’s a Unicorn, I can counter his spells.”

Twilight’s horn glowed, as Applejack threw her lasso. A purple aura surrounded the figure, but as soon as it appeared, it faded to nothingness. A raised hoof was caught by the lasso, but a quick yank pulled the captor to the captive. The cowpony was caught gently, the stranger appearing to have absorbed the momentum into him.

“That’s it. You’re in fer a world of-” a quick tap to the head silenced the farmer, who was placed gently next to the sleeping Pegasus.

“How can magic not work on him?” a mildly panicked Twilight asked.

“Darling, if you can’t lift him-“

“I can’t do anything! I can’t even put him to sleep.”

“As I was saying, if you can’t use magic on him, then use it on something else.”

A branch flew towards the figure, surrounded by a light blue aura. The branch was smashed by a quick hoof, but the point was made.

All of the forks, knifes, and even the spoons, raised into the air surrounded by the purple aura. Twilight allowed herself a victorious smirk, before launching the array of utensils.

The dark figure ran to the side at a rate even Rainbow Dash, had she not been unconscious at the moment, could of appreciated. The onslaught followed after him, copying his every move. That was, until his move, was to run directly towards Twilight, the storm of improvised missiles following behind him. Twilight quickly dropped her magic, afraid of hitting herself, or more importantly, her friends. The stranger summersaulted over her, lightly contacting her head and knocking her out in the process.

As he landed his face found itself in front of a pink pony and a strangely shaped device. “Eat Party Cannon!” A loud shot rang through his ears, as his face was assaulted by confetti, streamers and a bright light. The odd device had disoriented him momentarily, allowing the party pony to attack him. He seemed to sense the attack though, and managed another quick knock out; with his hoof landing squarely, gently on the hyperactive pony’s head.

He had not wanted this outcome. Truthfully though, he had suspected it.

“ENOUGH!” The shout had managed to hurt his head, still ringing from the cannon blast.

“I said I would go with you. I know they attacked first, but can’t we just go?” Spike pleaded

“I would like that,” came the figures response.

“Spike, darling, I can’t let you go with him. He’s dangerous, we don’t know what he wants with you, and Twilight would never forgive me,” Rarity pleaded.

Spike looked at her, guilt spreading across his face. “I’m sorry, Rarity. I’ll come back safe and sound. So don’t provoke him any further. We have a deal right?”

“SPIKE!” Rarity stomped her hoof in defiance of his choice.

“Rarity, if you have any respect for me, you’ll let me do this.”

Tears began to form in the disgruntled Unicorn’s eyes. She didn’t want him to go, but the dragon had made it known that his decision was final. “Of c-course, S-Spike.”

The young dragon turned away, unwilling to see her cry. He’d never make her cry again, he swore, but this was something he had to do to protect her, Twilight, and his friends.

“You made the right decision. Come young one, we have much to talk about, and even more to do.” The cloaked pony allowed the dragon to climb onto his back. He made his way back towards the woods he had come from.

“HOW DARE YOU!” Fluttershy had finally had enough, four of her friends lay unconscious and Rarity was in tears. “HOW DARE YOU!”

The stranger looked back into the most outraged stare he had ever seen.

“YOU COME AND RUIN OUR PICNIC, AND THEN YOU TRY TO KIDNAP OUR FRIEND. YOU HURT FOUR OF MY FRIENDS IN THE PROCESS, AND YOU MADE THE OTHER CRY! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE, AND WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY FOR YOURSELF?”

He stared into her eyes, and spoke calmly, “I am Wrath, and my sin is my name. I have come to collect this dragon, to protect this world that I don’t belong in. Your Stare won’t work on me. I am sorry it came to this, but your friends will wake up in twenty-four hours. The two of you should take them home. They’ll be fine; I didn’t hurt them. When they wake up, tell them to prepare. The Sins are gathering, and a great evil threatens this world. I applaud your bravery, but this is how it has to be.” And with that, he turned around and walked into the forest.

An hour had passed in silence for the odd pair walking through the woods, and Spike was getting bored. One could only look at the canopy and listen to the birds and woodland creatures so much. Small beams of sunlight slid through the cracks in the trees, falling over the shadowed ground. Pretty to look at, sure, but it got old fast.

“Um… Wrath was it? Can I ask you some questions?” It occurred to Spike that he could combat his boredom and learn about his new traveling partner at the same time. Twilight had told him knowledge is power and he was going to need a lot of power with this stallion.

The stallion seemed to perk up a bit, as if he’d been waiting for this. “Yes it is. You may, only seems fair; I did kidnap you after all. But understand, I won’t necessarily answer all of them. Somethings have to be learned the hard way, and even I don’t have all the answers.”

Spike could see the wisdom in his words. “Okay then, why did you kidnap me?”

“Weren’t you listening? To save the world.”

“Could you be a bit broader?” Spike crossed his arms in annoyance.

“Sarcasm, amusing. It’s complicated; let’s just say you are the last piece in a very dangerous game of chess. Again, broad, I know, but when we get where were going you’ll have your answer.”

“And where are we going?”

Wrath motioned with his cloak covered head towards the mountains in the distance, without slowing down. “Canterlot. We’re going to meet an old friend of mine.”

Spike raised his eyebrow, and then realized riding on Wrath’s back meant that he was unable to see the gesture. “Your friend have a name?”

“Yes, and you’ll learn it soon enough.”

Spike couldn’t help but notice how ominous that sounded. “Why do I find myself with more questions every time you answer?

“Such is the nature of the pursuit of knowledge, my young friend.”

“Fine,” Spike announced annoyed. Honestly who’d the guy think he was, Twilight? “Then, how about you tell me how you beat up my friends?”

“You can’t see it at the moment, but my Cutie Mark represents Martial Arts. Every time I tapped one of your friends, I put a little kai into the attack. This caused my strike to rattle their brain and render them unconscious.”

“I’ve never seen Martial Arts used like that, and what about Twilight’s magic?”

“I suspect I can answer both of those with a small story. Do you know the tale behind Hearts Warming Eve?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, the one you know is somewhat censored. You see, while no fighting ever actually broke out, there was preparation for war. The Unicorns trained themselves in battle magic; this would prove to be the foundation for the practice today. Pegasi started drilling for combat, formations, speed, trick flying that kind of thing. The Wonderbolts would be the modern spin on Pegasi war efforts. And finally, Earth Ponies began developing techniques to fight the agile Pegasi, and the powerful magic of Unicorns. Martial Arts were developed as a form of hoof to hoof fighting. A strong foundation along with quick, precise, and efficient movements was believed to be the key to defeating the Pegasi. The magic was another story entirely though. Dragons are largely immune to magic as they mature, though not entirely. So, early Earth Ponies studied dragons to try and discover a technique that would offer them the same protection. They were successful. They discovered that the dragons’ strong sense of self and inner ferocity allowed them to negate the magic. With this knowledge, the Earth Ponies developed a technique to make their auras and bodies resistant to all but the most powerful of magic. Both Martial Arts and Aura Training take a small lifetime to master, and even that is merely the tip of the iceberg. Because of this, and with the now peaceful times we live in, Martial Arts have largely become something of a hobby or a mere competitive sport, and Aura Mastery has fallen out of practice, unknown entirely to the public. I am one of a very small number who is trained in Aura Mastery, and a master of true Martial Arts.” Wrath leaped over a small stream as he finished his tale.

Spike barely managed to get his arms around Wrath’s neck before the jump. Safely on the other side, Spike continued their conversation, “So anyone who mastered them would be as strong as you? Wait, is that how you beat Fluttershy’s stare?” Spike rubbed his chin. The thought of gaining that kind of strength was intriguing, to say the least.

“No on both accounts. I am unique, in a sense, and mastering Martial Arts is more like reaching a certain level, you can always improve and advance. Do you remember what I told Fluttershy?”

“Yeah, your name, why you were taking me, about the girls, and something about sins gathering and destruction.”

“The Seven Sins are comparable to the Elements of Harmony, and at the same time very different. The Elements work together to create peace, each of them represents the best in a being, but they are not without flaw. The Sins represent the worst in a being, but their wielders use their sins for the best of intentions. They have a tendency to work alone”

“I don’t understand. How can they be the worst, but have the best of intentions?”

“I am the Sin of Wrath; dad got lucky with the name.” The mention of his father seemed to cause the stallion pain as his trot slowed momentarily. “Wrath is defined as anger, violence, and revenge. It’s a monster that can consume you and make you do horrible things. However, it can be forged, channeled, into a blade. Wrath can help you defend what’s important to you, it can bring justice to those who would abuse it, and it can avenge those who have been wronged by those who would use it selfishly.”

“So it has positive attributes, even though it’s normally dark. So does that mean a Sin is more powerful than the Elements of Harmony?” Spike shuddered at the idea of six others like Wrath.

“Correct on the first part, but the second part is more complicated. No one of us is stronger than the six elements together.”

“But I saw you take them all down.”

“Yes, but I didn’t fight all six at once, just in rapid procession. Rainbow Dash attacked by herself, cutting their power significantly due to her loss. Applejack teamed up with Twilight. But because they didn’t know about my Aura Mastery, I was able to take Applejack down. Twilight canceled her spell to protect herself and everyone else when she fought alone. Pinkie Pie managed to combo off of Twilight. I didn’t even sense her presence, and that party cannon of hers is not pleasant to have next to your face. When she attacked me directly however, I was able to feel her movements. Fluttershy and Rarity waited too long to join in and help. You defeated Rarity for me, but don’t feel bad about it, it was for her own good. And that left Fluttershy. Her stare is a manifestation of her element; it draws on the kindness in others and forces it to the surface. It didn’t work on me because I was being kind. I refrained from hurting anyone and was taking you out of absolute necessity. Still, she managed to pull some information out of me, so I wasn’t completely unaffected.” Wrath speed up his pace, as he finished explaining.

“Fluttershy’s stare is part of her element?”

“Indeed. All of the Elements and Sins have unique abilities. Your six friends are young still, and they haven’t discovered them, or tapped into them fully yet. When they do, they’ll be extremely powerful, even by themselves.”

“So what’s your ability then?”

“Not telling, not yet. We’re here.”

Spike looked up, the sky had darkened considerably their conversation had seemed like an hour, but had really taken most of the day. He was shocked to find Canterlot before him, shrouded in a vale of darkness. The mountain-side city was as beautiful as ever, ornate structures lined the streets giving an air of majesty to everything.

“Hold on tight.”

Spike wrapped his arms around Wrath’s neck, linking his claws together. Wrath sprang forward, jumping onto one of houses. He started running along the roof tops, jumping to every new building along his path.

“Pinkie does this. She called it Parkour.” Spike was trying to stop his heart from exploding.

“It’s one of the Martial Arts that evolved from the original. The art of running and climbing, very useful when you need to get somewhere quietly or escape from something,” Wrath said quietly, as he leapt to his next target.

A large, long wall was coming up fast. “Is that the castle?”

“Keep quiet now; don’t want to alert the guards.”

Wrath ran forward jumping from the roof to the wall of the castle, twice any of his previous jumps, and landed without making a sound. He quickly jumped down as a guard rounded the corner, barely missing him.

“Not bad. Think I need to work on my timing though. Spike?”

The young dragon was squeezing the muscular neck of the insane pony for all his worth. His heart slowed down as the adrenaline crept out of his system. “Are you insane?” he hissed.

“Little bit.” Wrath started moving again.

“That explains it.” Spike looked around. Statues of famous ponies, artistically crafted shrubbery, beautiful, fragrant flowers, and a large hedge maze surrounded him. A sudden realization hit him; they were in the Canterlot Castle Gardens. “You’re meeting your friend here?”

“Yeah, he’s just around this corner.”

They rounded the corner, and Spike’s eyes widened in realization. “Discord.”

The statue of the god of chaos and destruction stood quietly, posed in a frightened stance, the final cry of a forsaken trickster.

The head of the statue looked like a ponies but longer. It had a deer antler on the right side, and a goat horn on the left. One, long, sharp fang peeked from its mouth. The pupils were different-sizes. A forked reptilian tongue stood frozen in the open mouth. A goatee graced the creature’s chin. A buzz-cut mane ran down his neck. His right arm was that of a lion, and his left the claw of an eagle. His legs were just as strange, the right leg of a lizard, and the left leg of a goat. Upon his back were a bat's right wing, and a Pegasus' left wing. A dragon's tail with a white tuft at the end finished the mismatched Draconequus.

“Spike, off my back,” Wrath requested, never taking his eyes of the statue.

“Are you crazy? Forget insane, Discord is dangerous. Even the Elements barely defeated him.”

Wrath chuckled; the calculating, cold, insane Wrath, actually chuckled. “You think they defeated him? That’s rich.” The humor fled his voice, “Off my back,” he demanded, leaving no room for argument this time.

Spike reluctantly jumped off Wrath. Discord was just a statue now anyways. Wrath could not do anything to change that… could he? The Elements sealed Discord maybe a Sin could bring him back. No, the Elements were more powerful than a Sin, Wrath had explained that himself. So then, what was he planning with the statue?

Wrath bit the edge of his hood and in one swift, fluid movement shed the cloak from his body.

Spike stared in disbelief at the pony before him. A black Earth Pony with a long white mane and crimson red eyes. His body was covered in gray scars. One large scar went from the top of his forehead through his right eye and stopped before his mouth. A circular scar had indented itself into the back right side of his neck. The shape and size looked familiar to the young drake, a Griffon’s beak perhaps. That would explain it, a Griffon landing on his back and attempting to peck through his neck. Spike shivered at the thought, the pain must have been immense, searing. Wrath turned to face Spike, his eyes taking in his young companion’s composure at the sight of his body. On his left side three knotted gashes ran from his shoulder to his waist. Spike recognized the mark immediately, dragon claws, and from the size, a full grown one. His hooves and legs were covered in smaller scars of all shapes and sizes, but none of particular notice. Only the amount seemed daunting. But Wrath himself, appeared to be only a few years older than any of the girls. He was definitely younger than the Cakes by more than a few years. An educated guess placed Wrath at about twenty-five.

Wrath turned back towards Discord. “Now you see why I wear the cloak.”

Spike stared at the last of Wrath’s prominent features, his Cutie Mark. A black hoof smashing down inside a blood red circle graced the Earth Ponies flank. “You look…”

“Dangerous,” Wrath finished for Spike.

“Well yeah,” Spike admitted, nervously rubbing his head, “but it’s kind of cool.”

Wrath smirked. “You haven’t seen anything, yet.”

White, scarlet stained wings materialized on Wrath’s back in a mere moment. The next moment however, caused shaking and rumbling throughout Canterlot. Discord’s statue exploded, releasing the god of chaos with a loud yawn and stretch of his arms. “Morning, Wrath,” Discord stole a quick glance to the dragon now cowering slightly behind Wrath, “and Spike. Oh wait, that’s Rainbow Dash isn’t it.” Discord smiled mischievously at his own joke.

Wrath stepped forward. “Not that I didn’t miss your sense of humor, old friend, but I believe teleporting us out of here is in our best interest. We wouldn’t want Celestia and Luna down here. I’m sure they already noticed your grand awakening.”

“Quite right.” Discord stroked his goatee. “Anywhere specific?”

“The old castle of the Alicorn sisters seems like a fitting place.”

With a snap of Discord’s claw they found themselves in the ruins of a throne room. Discord snapped his fingers again. The walls turned a brilliant white, a regal red carpet ran from the twin thrones to the door, and chandeliers hung from the ceiling casting light across the now restored throne room. “Much better.” Discord flew over to one of the thrones, pulled a pillow from thin air, and sat down upon it. Another snap of his fingers brought forth a glass of chocolate milk. He took a sip. “Where are my manners? Would either of you like a glass?”

“No!” Spike half screamed, half whimpered.

“I’m good as well.”

“What just happened!?” Spike demanded.

“I drank chocolate milk; you and Wrath didn’t want any,” Discord mused. Suddenly, Discord seemed very serious. “Did you tell him yet?”

“No. I felt he should hear the whole story from us first. He has to know the truth after all, if he is to trust us.”

Spike spoke up, “How did you release Discord, and what’s with the wings?”

Wrath was happy to see Spike returning to his inquisitive side. “I released Discord with my wings.” Wrath’s wings suddenly disappeared as fast as they appeared. “They were transmuted onto me with Discord’s chaos magic long ago. He added the ability to remove or create them at will. When I presented the magic before his statue, it awoke the magic within, allowing Discord to escape.”

Spike’s eyes lit up. “I get it! His magic in your wings resonated with the magic inside the statue.”

Discord clapped, clearly impressed by Spike’s understanding. “It’s nice to see Celestia and Twilight taught you well.” Discord smiled saddened momentarily. “Always knew she’d be good with kids.”

“But that still leaves the question, why did Wrath break you out now?”

“Simple, he needs me.” He laid his head on his hand, and with an amused grin announced, “I am Discord, the Sin of Gluttony.”

“YOU’RE A SIN!” Spike shouted, much to Discord’s amusement and Wrath’s chagrin.

Wrath walked up to the other throne and sat down facing Spike. “Yes, he is. Discord’s unique ability is his chaos magic.”

“So then, what do you two need me for?” Spike voice betrayed him as it shook a little.

Wrath and Discord shared a downtrodden expression. It was not a pleasant one, but instead a sad look. Spike saw something in their eyes, regret and yearning.

Wrath started as Discord snapped his fingers creating a bean bag cushion for Spike to relax in, “To answer your question we need to go back about thirteen hundred years ago. Back then I was twenty-one, void of all these scars, and was working as Celestia’s and Luna’s personal guard. Discord was about forty-eight, and the twin princesses were fifty. None of them looked a day over twenty-five, and Discord was still a Kirin, a Unicorn dragon hybrid. He went by his birth name, Seeker. This is the story of the first two Sins, The Fall of Wrath, and The Birth of Discord.”

The Fall of Wrath

A young Wrath walked down the hall leading to the chambers of his princesses. He laughed as he thought of his position, Personal Guard to the Princesses. It was more like personal friend. He had joined the Guard young and was immediately recognized for his combat prowess. His father had been a scout during the settlement movement; his talent being cartography. During his time in the skies and forest finding food, water, and paths for the settlers, he had been trained in the original Martial Arts. Years later, when he had settled down with a young earth mare, he taught those same skills to his two sons. Wrath had quickly taken to Martial Arts earning his Cutie Mark by defeating his father at the age of six. By the age of seventeen he had been initiated into the Guard, and at twenty, placed as Celestia’s and Luna’s personal guard. In the six months since his promotion he had grown very close to the rulers. He knew things about them no one else would even dare insinuate, Celestia’s love of cake for instance, or Luna’s obsession with socks, and both had recently come to find pranking others of great amusement. They often discussed their lives with Wrath and he would share his with them. He was the only guard allowed to go without regulation armor, as they had found it too serious. The last three months had shown a difference in them both. Something only he himself seemed to have noticed.

Two months ago Wrath had discovered why. They were in love. He was usually off at night, but the princesses had requested his presence and dismissed the night guard. He was instructed to meet them at the entrance to the forest. Conveniently, Wrath lived very close to the forest with his family. He met them at the path, curious as to why they seemed interested in a late night trek. The large white Alicorn with a flowing multi-colored ethereal mane and a Sun on her flank, Celestia, and a dark blue Alicorn with a mane that resembled the night sky blowing in the wind, a crescent moon adorned her flank, Luna. However, they never entered. Instead, a long, Alicorn-sized creature with brown fur and a dark brown mane exited the woods. It had two draconic wings, a long tail, and clawed hands and feet. It seemed almost a mix of a dragon and a pony. Wrath’s instincts and training took over as he positioned himself between the strange thing and his princesses. Celestia and Luna ran right past him and hugged the stranger. Wrath relaxed, it was obvious to him he had been summoned tonight to meet this… individual.

He extended his hoof, “My name is Wrath.”

The figure gave him a cautious look. He carefully grabbed the hoof with his claw. “Seeker.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Seeker. If you don’t mind me asking, what are you? I’ve never seen another creature like you.”

Luna chimed in, “He’s a Kirin!”

Celestia shared her enthusiasm, “A hybrid between Unicorns and Dragons.”

“Wow, that’s pretty interesting. So Seeker, Princesses, what brings us out here tonight?”

“We’re going to pull some pranks!” Seeker announced excitedly, forgetting his caution momentarily.

A look of worry spread across Wrath’s face. “I’m not sure that’s the best idea.”

“Oh, don’t be a killjoy, Wrath.” Celestia put on her best puppy dog face.

Wrath was about to further his objection, until Luna joined her sister in staring into his soul. “Please, Wrath?”

“Fine!” Wrath threw his hooves in the air. Victory would not be his this night.

“Don’t worry, it’ll be fun, harmless fun,” Seeker assured him, suddenly excited at having a new friend.

That was Wrath’s first experience with Seeker’s chaos magic. It had been a night of filling pillows with pudding, painting the local apple orchards, and filling rain clouds with chocolate milk. Since then, the four of them had gone out every few nights to pull small pranks.

Wrath was something of the voice of reason in the group, too serious. Of course they had all found it more exciting that way. The pranks were not hurting anyone, so there was no harm in them. The Princesses seemed to have fun, and with all the pressure on them to run Equestria with the ascension of their parents, Wrath believed unwinding a bit was good for them. Also, while Wrath had never really experienced love himself, he wasn’t blind to the way Seeker look at the Princesses, and the way they looked at him. Seeker was gentle, caring, and loved having fun. His power was also closer to the Princesses then anything he’d ever seen. It was with certainty, that Wrath could claim Seeker was good for them.

Wrath’s dream world dissipated as a small brown Unicorn colt with a star embroidered cape and bells around the edges ran into him. “Allonsy, you need to be careful.” Wrath helped him off the floor. “So, how’s the magic training going?”

“I learned a new spell! Watch.” His horn glowed a light gray and within seconds he was sporting a full grown beard.

“Not bad. You look just like Starswirl now. Have you shown Celestia yet?”

“Nope. I can only make it last a few minutes. I want to perfect it, before I show her.”

Wrath nodded his approval. “Run along then; don’t want to keep your parents waiting.”

Allonsy did just that, his bells ringing as he ran down the majestic tapestry covered walls.

Wrath smiled. Recently, Celestia had taken an interest in teaching the upcoming Unicorns magic. This was a good sign. It meant that she had begun taking an active role in shaping the future of Equestria.

Wrath reached his destination, an ornate large door, and heard fighting from behind it.

“Celestia you can’t do this!” Luna shouted.

“I have to. A self-proclaimed Prince has requested an audience with us. There’s no reason we both need to go, though.” Celestia explained quietly.

“Then let me go instead. I have a bad feeling about this.”

“As do I, and that’s why I’m going. I’m your older sister, and I won’t put you in danger.”

“By a whole two minutes.”

An irritated growl followed. “Enough, Luna. I need you to stay here and take care of the kingdom. Please?”

A defeated sigh was next. “Very well sister. But I still don’t like it.”

“Wrath, could you come in now?”

Wrath pushed the door open, entering the majestically adorned room with a blush on his face. Bookcases covered the walls, a large red carpet lay along the floor, two desks sat on the edges facing each other, and a giant bed, with a day and night designed blanket covering it, shared by the Alicorn Princesses, lay in the middle.

Wraths cheeks flushed red as he rubbed the back of his head with his hoof. “Busted, huh?”

Celestia gave him a small glare, before bursting into laughter. “Oh, most definitely.” Calming herself down, she continued, “I need you watch over Luna while I deal with this pompous Prince.”

Wrath snapped to attention and saluted. “As you command, Princess!”

Luna still wasn’t happy about the arrangement, but decided against arguing further with her sister. They spent the day together before Celestia left that night.

Wrath had been instructed to inform Seeker of Celestia’s leave. He took it well, albeit with some disappointment. He was less than pleased at the idea of Celestia meeting some prince, but he understood that she was merely dealing with him.

The next day Wrath had watched over Luna during the royal duties. He took his leave for a moment to gather them food from the kitchen. He proceeded to once again walk the hallway to meet Luna in her bedroom, balancing two dishes on his back. However, when he got close, he could hear frantic movement and Luna’s voice, “This is not good. This can’t be happening. Calm down Luna. You can fix this. It’s all going to be okay.”

Wrath burst through the door, worried about Luna’s safety. He found the Princess of the Night packing her things quickly and muttering to herself. She had not even noticed his rather loud entrance. Thankfully, none of the food had spilled from his back, his balance training saving the meals. “Luna what’s wrong?” Wrath asked calmly, knowing panic wouldn’t help, a lesson from his training.

Luna’s response was to point to a letter laying on the bed and a simple, frustrated, “I don’t know.”

Placing the food down on Luna’s desk, he reached for the note.

Dear Sister,

I am so deeply in love with my Cutie-Wootie Smoochakins. I shall marry him at once!

Love you,

Celestia

The note fell to the floor. This couldn’t be right. Celestia loved Seeker, he was certain of it. Even if she wasn’t, she clearly disdained the false prince and nothing was going to change that into love in a day. Luna was right, something was very, very wrong.

Luna looked at Wrath with a mix of regret and fear. “I knew I should have gone. It just didn’t feel right. But, I’m going now, and whatever they’ve done to my sister, I will fix it.”

“I’m going too.” Wrath had started heading towards the door to prepare. A blue aura slammed it in his face.

Luna quickly took a commanding stance. “No, you’re not. I need you to stay here. I don’t trust the royal advisors. They were too quick to send Celestia to meet this prince. In my absence, you are to protect our home.” Luna’s voice softened, “I know it may seem unfair, the same thing Celestia told me ironically now passes my own lips, but you and Seeker are the only real friends we sisters have. Seeker is… afraid. I don’t know why, he never told us. It’s why he doesn’t come out of the woods usually though. Even meeting you for the first time was something he dreaded deeply. I can’t ask him to do this while you come with me.”

“I understand.” Wrath bowed before the Princess of the Night. “I will protect our home and its citizens in you absence.”

Luna let out a sigh of relief. “You’re a good friend, Wrath. Thank you for being so understanding. I have to go now, before anyone realizes I’m gone. If anyone asks, tell them attending to the raising of the Sun and the Moon as exhausted me, and I am to be left alone at all cost. Goodbye Wrath, may the stars watch over you.”

“Goodbye Luna, may your journey be fruitful and safe."

The Princess of the Moon opened her window and slipped away quietly into the twilight.

Wrath locked the doors behind him and proceeded to the advisors room. Six of the twelve advisors sat at their semi-circular raised stands. Wrath entered the middle of their court, thus allowing his words to reach the entire room. In a strong, but somewhat monotone voice he announced, “Princess Luna is exhausted from fulfilling the cycle by herself. She has decreed that no one is to bother her while she rest for the night and day. All higher issues are to be brought to me in her heed.”

“Wrath, you are their guard, not their confidant,” announced a dark gray Unicorn wearing rimmed glass.

“It is Luna’s direct command. Would you ignore the wishes of your ruler, Faded” Wrath shot back.

A royal blue Pegasus spoke this time, “Luna’s order is understood. Go home Wrath. If something comes up we will notify you immediately.”

“Very well, Blue Sky”

Wrath headed for the door. That had gone better than expected… It had gone too well, in fact. Luna had not trusted council, and neither should he. As he reached the door he shut it behind him, leaving it cracked. He listened quietly with his ear to the crack.

“Was that wise, Blue Sky?”

“It’s fine. I had hoped to have Wrath join us, but it seems the creature has influenced him as well. Our scouts have reported Luna leaving the castle to discover the source of her sister’s infatuation. With both of them gone, we can finally rid ourselves of that abomination. Our Princesses will be kept safe, uninfluenced by the monstrosity. Wrath will never be the wiser. And if he does anything, we’ll eliminate him too. Pampered will be made king, and our race will remain pure. Get the militia ready, it’s about time we end this, Seeker,” the last word was spat out with disgust.

Wrath backed away quietly, before sprinting out of the castle as fast as he could. He burst through the Castle doors running as fast as he could towards the forest. He had to get Seeker to safety. The council had conspired against the Princesses to bring this Pampered to power. Those bastards! He’d see to it that each of them was punished for their treason personally, but right now he had to protect Seeker. He reached the forest, sweat pouring from his body as he pushed himself further than he ever had. The trees had never looked so ominous and dark before.

“SEEKER! It’s an emergency; get your flank out here now!” Wrath screamed out, knowing he was running short on time. He had to get Seeker and hide him until the Princesses came back.

The Kirin appeared before him, materializing from the shadows. “Wrath, what’s wrong? Are the Princesses all right?”

Seeker was panicking; he didn’t have time for this. “They’re fine, but we need to get out of here now. Come on!”

Wrath took off with Seeker in tow. They quickly rushed through the forest dodging trees as they ran. Wrath could see an opening in the tree line and beyond that his families cottage.

“What’s happening?” Seeker shouted.

“They found out about you. I don’t know how, but they did. A group of extremist led by the council is hunting you down. They knew I was your friend. I have to warn my family to get to safety before they realize I found out what was happening and helped you escape. My dad knows this area better than anyone. We can hideout until the Princesses get back and fix this mess. Hide in the shed; you’re on lookout duty.”

Wrath entered his yard charging for his door, while Seeker entered the shed. As he reached the wooden door a shiver ran down his spine and his senses screamed at him of danger. All of the lights were out; it was way too early for his family to be asleep. He steeled himself and entered his home, a black veil enveloping everything. Suddenly, the door slammed and hooves grabbed onto him from the darkness. He had managed to strike some of his assailants, but was quickly overwhelmed by the sheer number. His chances diminished further as the exhaustion from his chase through the forest and his lack of breath fought against him. He quickly found himself enveloped in a beige aura and held against a wall.

A magenta aura flashed momentarily and lit the candles placed throughout the small living room. The table and couch had been thrown on their sides. A Unicorn in guard armor lay dead on the floor, two Earth Ponies, one in armor, one not, had fallen to the same fate, and two un-armored and unrecognized Pegasi joined the body count. In the middle of floor lay his father, a black Pegasi with a green mane, light purple eyes, and a map and quill on his flank, covered in blood, and slightly beaten being held down by two Earth Pony guards. His mother lay next to him seeming to have escaped harm but gaged, an off white Earth Pony bearing a red mane, teal eyes, and a brick stove Cutie Mark. A Pegasus and Unicorn held her down. Finally, his older brother a pure white Pegasus with a brown mane, azure eyes, and a ray of sunlight adorning his hide, lay badly beaten, bleeding, and unconscious, blood staining his white coat as it leaked out of him. He was detained by a Pegasus in a guard uniform and an Earth Pony. The Earth Pony kicked his brother as his eyes fell upon him, a pained groan escaping his lips.

Pinning Wrath to the wall was none other than Advisor Faded. Next to him stood another council member, Timber, a green Unicorn with a blue mane. Behind both of them stood two more of the traitorous guards, a Unicorn and Pegasus.

Faded smirked. “Hello Wrath. I’m so glad our scout saw you running out of the castle towards the forest. You’ve gotten too close to our majesties for my taste. Blue Sky always liked you, but me; well, I’ve been waiting for this day for so long.” He interrupted his tirade to levitate a knife from the kitchen over. “Still, you have a lot of talent, and it would such a waste. Tell me where that, thing is, and I’ll let you and your family go.”

The magic weakened around Wrath’s head. “Buck you!” Wrath spit at Faded nailing him in the face. The magic instantly snapped back on his head.

The Unicorn wiped the spit from his face. “So, it’s going to be like that is it Wrath. Very well. I’m going to enjoy this.”

The knife floated next to Wrath’s face above his right eye. Faded let his face warp into a malicious smile of pure elation. The cold steel touched his brow. He tried to close his eye, but the magic forced it open against his will. A searing pain ripped through his body as the blade was slowly dragged forcefully over his face. He tried to scream as it entered his eye, but magic sealed the vibrations in his throat. Half of his world’s light faded into darkness as the improvised torture device finished its depraved path with a flourish down his cheek.

Faded just smiled, admiring his hoof work. Blood dripped down the insubordinate face of the innocent whelp. The color faded from the now useless crimson eye. “Would you like to reconsider my offer?”

Wrath had barely maintained his consciousness. The unbelievably intense pain had drained most of his energy. It had been the longest night of his life, and he could already tell it was far from over. The magic once again weakened around his muzzle. “When the Princesses get back, you’ll pay for this,” he managed to cough out, blood mixed with sweat dripping into his mouth. The warm, strangely metallic, and salty fluid dripped onto his tongue.

Faded sighed. “If you won’t save yourself,” he smiled showing off those disgustingly white teeth, “maybe, you’ll talk to save them.”

The knife flew away from Wrath’s face and sunk right into the center of his father’s skull. The Pegasus never knew what hit him, the life seeping from his body instantly. His eye’s still focused on his son, determination and concern shining through them. His mother thrashed against her captors, screaming into the gag.

Faded shook his head in mock disappointment. “You should have talked. He’d still be alive if you had. He was quite a formidable stallion. Your brother and him managed to kill five of my men during the ambush. Had you come to warn them instead of trying to save that freak maybe you all could have gotten away.” Faded looked at the Earth Pony straining against the floor. Her eyes filled with tears, but at the same time trying to kill him with a mere look. “Timber, kill her.”

The green Unicorn laughed, a sickening disturbed laugh. “With pleasure, Faded.” A magenta aura surrounded his mother’s head. She screamed in defiance, the cloth forced into her mouth preventing her voice from ever being heard. A gut wrenching, vomit inducing snap rang out through the cottage. His mother’s head now lay at an unnatural angle on the floor. Anger and hate reflecting in her dead eyes.

Wrath felt his body numb as the death of his parents weighed on his shoulders. Was this to be the cost of doing what was right? These bastards! It was all his fault. NO! They never would have let him and his family go; they had known too much. They would pay for what they had done though.

“Not bad Timber. So Wrath, ready to talk now? Or will your brother pay for your sacrilege too? Were your parents not enough for you?” Faded smiled, he was genuinely enjoying his little game. “Tell us foal? Where are you hiding him?”

For the third time the restraints on his mouth weakened. “I’ll kill every last one of you,” he growled.

“You never learn do you?” Faded shook his head disappointedly.” Beat his brother. Make him see what his foolish beliefs get him.”

The four who had held his father and mother joined the two near his brother. Hooves fell as he was kicked, punched, stomped on, and even bucked. Blood poured from his body forming a dark red puddle on the floor beneath him.

Wrath’s hearing stopped. The world moved slowly and without noise as he watched his brother get beaten to death. Years of anger repressed by his training broke from their restraints. Rage and fury mixed together inside him, relentless against the storm of his emotions. And suddenly, it all just stopped. Only one thought remained, 'I’LL KILL EVERY LAST ONE OF THEM!'

Faded’s mouth had been moving, but his face quickly changed from smug to a look of horror. A scarlet blood red aura unlike any formed by Unicorn magic poured out of Wrath. It quickly consumed the beige aura restraining him. He fell to the floor on all four, muscles bulging, and one good eye filled with rage. His malice rang from his mouth as an unearthly roar shattered the night.

Faded’s face drained of color. “Get him! Stop him! Now!”

Four of the assailants acted instantly, attempting to pile onto Wrath to restrain him again. As their bodies touched the dark red aura the flesh began to burn and sear, muscle ripped and tore, and their bones cracked and snapped. They lay dead around him, and his face formed the things of nightmares as he unleashed himself on the other six ponies. Two had been grabbed by the throat and were screaming in agony as their necks corroded and air failed to reach their lungs. The next had been lucky, a quick buck to the chest and ripped the whole cavity from his body, killing him instantly. The last nameless bastard’s brains covered the wall as a black hoof punched through his head. The two advisors stood against the wall shaking. Wrath’s hoof pierced Timber’s chest. His hoof rested on his mother’s murderer’s heart. Timber screamed in agony, tears of pain rolling down his face, as his blood leaked from his mouth. The heart finally reduced to nothingness, and Timber’s body fell through Wrath’s arm, cutting through its shoulder. Wrath faced Faded, the memories of his family’s murders playing through his head. The knife used to kill his father had been flung at him by Faded’s magic, but in the red cloak covering him it ceased to exist. Wrath’s hoof pinned Faded’s arm to the wall, the aura working its horrific power over the Unicorn’s limb as blood sprayed from the now gaping hole. His other front hoof pushed against the gray fur on the other arm. Faded’s screams filled the night as his flesh and bone was destroyed. The Unicorn fell to the floor, part of his arms ripped off. Wrath gently placed his blood covered hoof against the horn of Celestia and Luna’s advisor. His horn began to crack and melt away from the contact of Wrath’s hatred, anger and rage. It shattered in a beige explosion of magic.

Suddenly the door to the cottage was broken down as Seeker smashed through it. He almost puked from the sight. Dead bodies and blood covered the floor, but worst of all, one of his only friends stood shrouded by a horrible red aura that seemed to ooze malice and covered in blood. In front of him was a horribly disfigured pony yelling for mercy.

“WRATH STOP THIS!”

Wrath dropped the mess that had once been the proud Advisor Faded and turned towards his friend. He lunged forward ready to strike him down, his anger and rage blinding him to his target. Seeker didn’t even flinch. Images of the two of them and the Princesses talking together, pulling pranks, and laughing forced the way to the surface over his hate. His hoof stopped millimeters from Seeker’s head and his body returned to normal.

Seeker grabbed onto his friend, helping him get his balance. “Wrath what was that?”

“I don’t know,” he whispered.

Seeker placed his hand on his friends chin and forced him to stare into his eyes. His dead eye and the horrible scar down his face stared back. “Don’t move.” He placed his other claw over the eye and brought his magic to the surface. Visibly tired from the excretion he moved his hand away.

Wrath saw light as the Seeker’s touch faded. His once dead eye deemed to never see again, defied logic. The scar remained, but it was a small price to pay. No, a much larger price had been paid. The bodies of his family lay before him. His parents were dead, and his brother was barely breathing. “Can you help them Seeker?”

Seeker’s eyes met the floor. “I’m sorry. Bringing back the dead is impossible.”

“I understand. What about my brother? He’s not dead yet.”

Seeker placed is hands on the white Pegasus covering it in blood. His voice took on sympathy, “He’s lost too much blood, and he’s too far gone. I’m sorry, but I’m not powerful enough to save him.”

Wrath placed his hoof on his brother’s cheek. He was asleep and hopefully free of his pain. Soon he’d be free of all pain.

Wrath walked over to the shell known as Faded. He looked down into the terrified eyes, the eyes of a coward. A black hoof smashed through the skull.

Seeker watched in horror, but he understood.

Wrath looked at him. “I need to know something.”

Seeker gulped. “What?”

“You told me once that you had transmuted a bird’s wings and a butterfly’s. Was that true?”

“Yes. It caused them immense pain. It only worked on living creatures, and so I swore to never do it again.” Seeker shuddered at the memory.

Wrath faced his brother and away from Seeker. “I need you to transmute my brother’s wings on to me. He only has moment’s left,” he said regretfully.

“NO! Are you crazy? I’m not even sure you’d survive after whatever the hell that was! It’s not right!” Seeker screamed in outrage, “How could he even consider this?”

“If I have his wings I can carry him with me. The burden of their deaths will never leave me, but I can bring justice to those who would flee to the skies to escape me.”

Seeker sighed. His voice was understanding but clear, “You don’t want that kind of curse, Wrath. This wasn’t your fault. I know it’s hard, but let them go.”

Wrath turned around and glared at Seeker. “They died because I chose to save you first. I won’t let their deaths be in vain! You’re alive because of their sacrifice. You owe them and me this. NOW DO IT!” His hoof meet the floor splintering the wood.

Seeker stepped back as guilt filled his heart. Defeated he let the word slip out of his mouth, “Fine.”

Wrath stood next to his brother. He was fading fast and time was short. Seeker placed his hands on Wrath’s back and his brother’s wings. The wings broke down creating a white essence the wrapped around seekers arm. As the breakdown process finished Wrath’s brother passed. His pain had ended, but Wrath’s was just about to begin. The white and red essence shot around Seeker’s arm and up his body and then straight down his arm and into Wrath’s back. The black stallion screamed as the sensation of his shoulder breaking apart and transforming to accommodate wings. The wings slowly formed. The horrible sensation of having them ripped to pieces again and again coursed through him as the new additions took form. In a grand flourish two wings stained red with blood now graced Wrath. The transfer complete, his vision clouded, and he fell into unconsciousness.

The Birth of Discord

Seeker caught his friend before he hit the floor. As horrible as everything had been it was only going to get worse. Wrath was unconscious, the Princesses were… well honestly, he didn’t know. Wrath had failed to share that information with him, but looking at the blood and gore around him, he couldn’t blame him. Worst of all, these madmen were still pursuing them, and with all the screaming from before it wouldn’t be long before the cottage was investigated. He needed to get Wrath to safety, and away from this nightmare. The exhaustion from the massive amount of magic that had been spent was starting to hit him hard, and the fact he had used two extra spells wasn’t helping either. One would allow Wrath to put his new wings off and on at will. Even with a limited knowledge of pony society, it didn’t take a genius to figure out that blood stained wings that didn’t match the rest of somepony’s coat would bring about a lot of uncomfortable stares and accusations. The other had been placed in the now healed eye. Whatever had happened to Wrath was dangerous and uncontrolled, so he had connected Wrath's vision with his own. It only worked one way, but if Wrath lost control again he’d be able to find out through it. He could still perform one jump though, but after that he’d be lucky to remain awake. The question was, where would he teleport to?

His cave in the forest had probably been ransacked and put under guard by now. The town he has observed from the tree line was also a no since everyone would panic, if they weren’t sided with these animals. That left the castle. Celestia and Luna had snuck him in on the occasion for some… recreational activities. They would never expect to find them there either. Still, that far of a teleport with two beings would render him unconscious with his already dwindling magic. If they didn’t find them after so long, they’d start searching everywhere. The two of them being found incapacitated and unable to defend themselves would be disastrous.

Voices could be heard outside, time was up. Seeker looked at his only friend in the world, the Princesses already transcending mere friendship. He made a decision, a drastic one. His finger’s snapped and his friend was gone, sleeping in the oversized bed of the Sun and Moon. A single teleport had pushed his magic to its limit, but at least he remained conscious. He grabbed a chair and threw it at a window shattering it as he followed after and jumped out himself.

He sprinted through the trees, his energy depleted, but unwilling to give up and be caught by the hoof beats trailing after him. Like this, they would all be chasing after him. All he had to do was lose them in the deeper part of the forest, and they’d spend their time searching for him and never be the wiser to Wrath being hidden in the castle. His body screamed at his stupidity and deep down he knew his mind agreed. He’d never escape like this, and instead of saving himself, he had chosen to save someone he’d known a whole three months. This wasn’t the time to be thinking like that; he had to keep moving, the trees flying past him.

He ran forward, right to the edge of a ravine. He looked to both sides spotting a bridge in the distance. He darted for it, panting heavily.

Suddenly, an orange Unicorn appeared before him. He screamed, “For the Prince,” shooting a bolt of green energy directly at him.

His instincts kicked in as his body lowered, the bolt sailing over his left shoulder taking some of his fur with it. As if on their own, his muscles tightened and sprang, and he found himself sailing through the air in one massive leap onto the unprepared Unicorn. His right hand curled around the horn, the claws scratching it, as his left pinned the struggling assailant to the ground. Magic flowed into him from his right arm. His head whipped back as he felt his reserves of magic refill and his exhaustion slip from his body. He looked down, and there under him lay the shriveled shell of his captive, the pony’s face had contorted into pure terror and pain. Seeker almost puked. He had never killed before, and it had been an accident, a horrible accident. This was unheard of, draining another being’s magic and life. It was so wrong, but it had felt so good. He started moving, again the rope bridge swaying as he ran. He had to get the almost addictive feeling out of his head; he needed to get to safety.

If only he could fly. Before, he had been too exhausted to attempt traversing the ravine, but now that he had the ill-gotten energy, he couldn’t afford giving away his position by breaking the tree line.

Hooves soon echoed their beat as they met the bridge’s wood. To Seeker’s horror they were already charging across the other side as he reached the end. For a moment, he considered cutting the rope bridge and letting them fall to their deaths. For the umpteenth time that night he fought back the urge to empty his stomach.

He retreated into the forest, the shouts of his pursuers hot on his tail. He ducked under a low branch as he turned, attempting to lose them. His breath came in short pants, his lungs screamed for air, and his feet hit the ground in heavy thuds. He broke into a small clearing, only to find himself trapped by a large rock formation.

Within moments, a small army of ponies, in guard armor and out, came bursting out of the trees, cornering him against the wall. Panic settled into his mind as he looked for an escape route. Seeker spread his wings and blew a wall of fire between him and his assailants, giving him precious time to flee. He launched himself into the air to make his escape.

A quick sharp pain shot through him, accompanied by two large holes in his wings. Two daggers buried themselves into the ground as Seeker crashed on top of his wings with a sickening snap and a loud scream.

Blue Sky landed in front of him and pulled the daggers from the ground. “Not so fast, abomination.”

“What did I do to deserve this?” he managed to hiss out, the pain seething through his body.

The Pegasus smirked. “You were born, for one, and then you had the audacity to try and get close to our princesses.”

Seeker growled at the bastard. “What did you do to them?”

“Celestia shared a love poison with their prince,” Blue Sky motioned towards the unarmored ponies. “The two of them will be wed and their prince will be made a king, maybe Luna will join them.”

Seeker felt hatred for the first time in his life, “I won’t let you do that to them!” He stood up, his wings bending in an awkward position. His claws dug into the earth as he bared his fangs and growled.

The stallion laughed at him. “You think you can stop this.” He flashed a sadistic smile. “Want to hear a story? It’s one my father told me. Forty-Five years ago my father discovered that some whore of a Unicorn secretly bore a dragon’s child. He and a group of trusted allies decided to rid the world of the disgusting mistake and its parents. They found the cave with the dragon sleeping inside, and the Unicorns of the group collapsed the cave on top of him with their magic. The way my dad tells it, the beast’s howls were second only to its crushed skull in beauty. Sadly, the mother had taken the child scavenging. The group quickly spread out searching for the bitch and her child. Dad was a lucky man; he found them first and ran her through with his sword. In her last moments she teleported the child to safety. They never found it, but it seems that the universe has given me the chance to finish his work.”

Everything stopped as Seeker relived the murder of his mother, the blade piercing her beautiful pink coat. From that moment on he had been forced to live every moment of his life in fear of ponies trying to kill him. He spent most of his time starving until he learned to scavenge for food in the unforgiving forest. Now, here in front of him, stood a stallion that was proud of what his father did to him and his family. The bastard had even caused the deaths of his best friend’s family now. The Pegasus had tried to follow in his dad's footsteps, but Seeker wasn’t like his parents. He wasn’t going to be ambushed and killed. No, he was going to take control.

Seeker lashed out with blinding speed, grabbing onto the horns of the closest two Unicorns. Once again the addictive taste of magic and energy poured into him, but this time, there was no repulsive feeling, no regret. The Unicorns fell, drained of their essence, dead on the ground, but he no longer cared as the power flowed into him.

He snapped his fingers, his chaos magic bringing the forest to life. The vines wrapped around the army, ensnaring them. The Unicorns tried to combat them with magic, but the strange foliage resisted. Earth Ponies tried cutting at it, but for every vine cut, two more took its place. Some of the Pegasi attempted to fly away to safety, but were quickly plucked out of the air by the unnaturally alive forest.

Blue Sky charged Seeker, daggers ready to end this chaos, but Seeker had spent his life growing up in the forest fending off the strange and powerful creatures that lived in it. He was prepared, and as soon as the Pegasus was in range he dodged the thrust with ease and threw his assailant into the rock face. The impact created a loud thud, and the stallion collapsed onto the floor, his chest rising and falling slowly.

Seeker stared at the trapped ponies. He was feeling a tad peckish, and a whole buffet lay before him. Might as well enjoy a meal while he wait for his pray to wake. He grabbed onto the vines allowing energy and magic to channel into him, but he couldn’t get enough as corpse after corpse fell from the vines onto the floor. His remorse was gone, replaced by an unending hunger.

The Pegasus awoke to a new nightmare. All of his men and two of the other advisors lay dead around him.

“Welcome back.” Seeker stood behind him. He grabbed him and pinned him against the rock wall.

Blue Sky watched in horror as the clawed hand rested against his head. “O-others will come; they’ll stop you!”

“Maybe, but first, you owe me a wing.” The captive screamed in agonizing pain as the bones and feathers in his wings tore apart and wrapped around Seeker’s arm. The sensation continued again as the Kirin’s wing followed suit.

“With all this power, I can even transfer all of the pain to you. Hurts, doesn’t it?” He sunk his claw into the Pegasus’ shoulder, drawing blood.

The strange essences flew past each other, never touching, into their intended recipients. A blue Pegasus wing formed onto Seeker's back where his left wing had once been. At the same time, a broken and ripped draconic wing materialized onto Blue Sky’s back.

Seeker spread his new wing, getting a feel for it. He felt powerful, and he wanted more. A bat flew past in the night, and with a snap of his fingers, a cage materialized out of nowhere and trapped it inside. He grabbed the winged creature from its cage and placed his other hand on the still conscious stallion. Once again the magic activated as the bat and him swapped wings, the horrible pain channeling into the injured advisor. The wings grew in to match the recipient’s body.

The bat seemed wrong with the ruined dragon wing, and so, in his kindness, Seeker swapped the Pegasus’s last good wing with the bat's new ruined one. He smiled as his new creation flew into the night and the deformed Pegasus doubled over in pain and misery. He found himself in bliss at messing with nature and the power; he flew off into the night with his conduit to revel in the feeling further.

He sapped the life force of every pony that was searching for him, as he fused various body parts onto him, forcing the pain onto his captive. Every time he added a new limb or appendage, Seeker felt stronger, and he loved every second of it.

Power. Now, that was what he really wanted, and he couldn’t get enough. With his newly mismatched body parts, he flew to castle. On his way he summoned a chocolate milk storm made of cotton candy clouds, pausing to indulge himself in the sweet liquid. He ripped houses in the village from the ground and forced them to float in the air, some upside down even. Pigs were granted magical wings and chickens given laser vision. He reached the castle, his castle, and landed on the steps.

He looked around at his own slice of chaos in this boring world. An idea hit him, a light bulb appearing above his head and exploding into hot sauce flavored sweets. With a mouthful of the candy, he decided that he needed to christen his newly acquired land, and he had the perfect way to do it. The broken Pegasus looked up at him full of hatred, and he smiled mischievously back.

“Let’s see if you can fly with those wings.”

A snap of Seeker’s newly acquired eagle claw and Blue sky found himself hundreds of feet in the air and falling fast. He screamed in terror and tried to flap his shredded, broken wings as hard as he could. Amusingly, it was for not as he hit the ground with a sickening mix of splat and crack. The sun began rising in the horizon as he admired his new piece of artwork. He decided to call it, Splat Goes the Pegasus. The broken body and blood smeared everywhere looked absolutely delightful. The former Kirin entered his castle and sat upon his throne. He had chaos and destruction to plan, and a certain mare-stealing Prince to play with.

Wrath woke up wrapped in warm silk sheets. The nightmares had ended for now, but reality was no better. He could worry about the loss of his- it just had to wait til later. He dragged his body to the window as he heard a terrified scream pierce the silence. He was just in time to watch Blue Sky fall the last hundred feet to his twisted and horrible death. He felt no remorse for the bastard, but what he did feel was the blood drain from his face. The advisor's executioner stood far below the window sill, a horrible creature that seemed to be stitched out of the parts of many different creatures. The face though, it gave away the identity of the murderer, Seeker. Even with different eyes, a giant fang, and two mismatched horns, it was still his friend’s head.

A flash of midnight blue light forced his attention to a sealed letter falling onto the bed. He grabbed it quickly, hoping it held the answers he was lacking.

Dear Wrath,

I have managed to free my sister from a love poison, the culprit responsible for her strange affection. Oddly enough, the “Prince” had no knowledge of the poison. We confirmed his story with a mind scanning spell. This is all very strange. Before we could investigate further, we felt a horrible wave of magic filled with malice and hunger from the direction of the castle. It appears that something has been unleashed, and whatever it is, is extremely powerful. We need you to head down to the vault under the castle and retrieve the Elements of Harmony. Once you have them head to the southern entrance to the forest. We’ll meet you there. Whatever you do, you and the guards are not to engage the source of this foul magic.

Luna

Wrath opened the door and galloped down the hallway. Coming from the opposite direction was a small group of guards. Wrath prepared himself to fight, but the guards stopped before him and saluted.

The leader of the group, a white Unicorn, spoke up, “Wrath, sir! Advisor Blue Sky was just murdered outside the castle, and the strange creature that killed him has entered. We were sent out to secure the Princess and receive further order, sir.”

The guards were treating him as a superior and going to check on Luna, this was a good sign. It meant that not all of the guards had been corrupted by the advisors, but they were in danger of Seeker if he thought they were.

He issued his orders, “The Princess has left to gather Celestia so that they may put an end to this chaos. I am ordering you take all of the guards down to the town and protect and help the citizens. They are you first priority, and you are not under any circumstances to attack the intruder. Am I understood?”

“Sir, yes sir!” they shouted in unison.

The leader spoke up once more, “Will you be joining with us Wrath, sir?”

“No. I have my own mission to complete. Now, GO!”

They ran off to inform the guards of their orders and see to them.

Wrath continued quickly to the vault. He reached a dead end and pushed three bricks into the wall. Instantly, it slid open, revealing a secret staircase that lead under the castle. The torches along the wall lit up magically, lighting the way.

Celestia and Luna had brought him here once, feeling that his position might require him to be able to access it one day. They had explained that the most powerful magical artifacts ever created were kept inside should the world need them. The vault also housed a small number of books that held horrible dark secrets, foretold the future, or any mixture of the two.

He reached a wooden box, similar in appearance to a jewelry box. Opening it revealed six different colored orbs right where they should be, The Elements of Harmony. With the box in his mouth he headed for the door.

A strange sensation overtook him as he went to leave. Looking around, he noticed a book on a pedestal that appeared to be calling to him. He walked up to it, put the Elements next to it, and read the title.

The Balance

By: King Curator.

King Curator, Luna and Celestia’s father

He opened the book gently and skimmed the index. The tome was split into three sections: The first, The Elements of Harmony, the second, The Seven Sins, and finally, The Epilogue. The first two sections each had an opening and seven sub categories. The one that caught his eye though was The Second Sin: Wrath. He flipped to the start of the chapter and read quickly. The first few pages described the sin itself and its negative and positive impacts. The next few pages made the stallion step away from the book in shock.

It detailed him perfectly, noting that King Curator had seen the bearer in a vision one night. He shook his head; whatever secrets this book held within would have to wait until after this mess was over. He grabbed the box and ran to meet Celestia and Luna, uncertainty clouding his mind.

Within moments of reaching the forest entrance Celestia and Luna arrived. The Elements were quickly handed off.

Celestia stared into the distance, cotton candy clouds drenching everything in chocolate milk. “Seeker… is responsible for this isn’t he?”

Wrath looked at the sorrow in her eyes. “He is the source of the magic you’ve felt, but he isn’t responsible.” Wrath looked down ashamed. “I am. I was given one task, protect the kingdom in your absence, and I failed. I couldn’t protect the citizens, I couldn’t protect Seeker, and I couldn’t protect … my family. But I Promise you, I will do whatever it takes to end this.” Wrath’s resolve rang true as he looked to the castle.

Luna pointed to the scar on his face and asked gently, “What happened, Wrath?”

He started toward the castle telling his tale, “This whole thing has been one giant ploy by the Council of Advisors and a select group of guards working directly under them. Along with supporters of the Prince, they poisoned Celestia and forced you to step in to fix it. They did all of this so they could murder Seeker. I discovered the conspiracy and tried to save him. I was tortured and my family was murdered in front of me for my defiance, but I told them nothing. I broke loose and killed my captives, but I blacked out after Seeker performed some magic to fix me up. I awoke in your chambers and found Seeker outside, changed almost beyond recognition and way more powerful from what I’ve witnessed. He murdered Blue Sky right there and entered the castle.”

Celestia flew beside him and listened intently until he finished. “I sympathize with your loss Wrath. You’re not at fault for all of this. We were all played by the council, and now it seems they’re paying the price. Seeker has to be stopped. The Elements of Harmony should be able to return him to his senses.”

“It’s not that simple Celestia. Seeker has started spreading his chaos to the town and the guards who remained loyal have all seen him. I instructed them to help the citizens and stay away from Seeker.” The chocolate milk drenched his coat, washing away the sweat.

Luna wore a troubled face as she flew along Wrath’s opposite side. “That was a good call. I see the problem though. If we return Seeker to his normal state of mind, he will be persecuted by the guards and citizens for what he’s done.”

“You’re right, sister. When we use the Elements, we’ll have to trap him in stone.” Celestia looked ready to cry. Her voice quivered, “I-it’s for the best. The spell will eventually break down and he’ll be released. Hopefully by then, no one will remember what he did in his darkest hour.”

Luna stared in shock at her sister’s suggestion. “You can’t be serious! Who knows how long that’ll take?”

“Luna, I agree with her. He’s done horrible things. And if he wasn’t there to stop me when my family was killed, I may have joined him. I owe it to him to make sure that he’s stopped, but I also have to be sure that he can be happy. After all of this, he deserves that,” he finished as he came to the castle steps, Blue Sky’s body still lying there in the chaotic rain.

“FINE! I don’t like it, but… I understand.”

They steeled their resolve and entered the castle. Inside, the once elegant halls were reduced to insanity and madness. Stained glass apparitions moved upon the windows as if alive, while the walls oozed hot sauce.

Upon a throne of cotton candy sat Seeker. “Wrath it’s good to see you up! Not using the new toys, huh? Oh well. So Celestia, it seems Luna managed to free you from that love poison. How do you like what I did with the palace?”

Luna pleaded with her love, “Seeker, stop this madness at once! We can go back to how things were.”

He growled, annoyed. “Seeker was always such a boring name, I think I need a new one. You can call me Discord, Spirit of Chaos and Destruction. Has a nice ring to it. And no, I won’t be stopping. I do however have a counter offer. Join me Celestia and Luna as my queens, and we can rule this land, no this world, forever! Oh, and Wrath can be our champion.”

“Discord it is then, but we shall never be your queens while you force your madness on this world.” Celestia looked strong, but it was little more than a façade as she damned the Kirin she loved. “I’m sorry Discord. We will always love you.”

Three brightly glowing orbs each flew from behind the Princesses as their royal armaments shined with the same intensity. They were lifted gently into the air as a rainbow colored beam struck the Spirit of Chaos and Destruction. His body began turning to stone from the feet up. The worst part was that in their attack they had returned his mind to its proper place, where he was forced to watch in horror as he turned to stone. A single tear rolled down Discord’s face as the last piece of his body was encased in stone.

With the deed done Celestia and Luna allowed their emotions to escape them as they held each other tightly, crying. Their love was gone, banished to protect him and everyone else. Wrath merely walked away as ice covered his heart. Unlike the Princesses, he’d never see his friend freed.

With Discord gone, the world returned to normal, and within twelve hours, all of the conspirators had been gathered. The guards had been required to have their minds scanned for involvement and to everypony’s relief most of the guard had been innocent of the treason. In the end a small handful of guards and supporters of the Prince stood trial with the last three living council members.

Celestia and Luna resigned to deliver their sentence as Wrath stood next to them. Luna allowed Celestia to deliver the news as she was still emotionally drained from the petrification. “For acts of treason, conspiracy, and homicide we sentence you to life in the dungeon.”

“WHAT!?” Wrath screamed in rage. “They orchestrated the death of our friend, your love, and are responsible for all the death and misery that’s befallen the kingdom and its people, and they get to live!?” Wrath screamed in outrage.

Celestia stared at Wrath in anger and shock. “There has been enough death as it is. They will spend the rest of their lives rotting in a cell.”

“Fine. They can spend the rest of their lives in a cell,” Wrath conceded.

Wrath’s hoof arched over the necks of the three advisors as a red ethereal blade flowed from it. All three of the advisors necks spilled blood onto the floor as they gasped desperately for air. Luna looked away horrified as Celestia attempted not to puke.

Wrath looked over his shoulder at the scene as he walked out. “Looks like their lives are over. By the way, I quit.”

A saddle bag carrying a single book was all Wrath took with him as he left the castle and the only home he had ever known.

The Legacy of Spike

Discord chimed in from his throne, “And that’s how I got my Cutie Mark.”

Wrath finished the tale, ignoring the interruption, “Celestia and Luna created the Love and Tolerance policy of Equestria after that. I went on to gather the rest of the Sins and bring vengeance to the world. About one hundred and fifty years after that horrible night, Celestia created Hearts and Hooves day. It was a way for her and Luna to remember Discord’s love, let others celebrate their love, and provide a warning to never try to force love onto someone. She changed the story though so that no one would know it was her that had been affected by the love potion, or what had really transpired.”

Spike could only stare in amazement from his bean bag chair after hearing the tale. He slowly clapped and spoke up, “Cool story. Too bad it has some horrible plot holes.”

Discord laid his head in his claw and frowned, “There’s the Celestia in you. So tell us then, little one, what plot holes?”

“First off, you speak perfect modern Equestrian even though you were encased in stone for a thousand plus years. Then, you supposedly turned back to good after being turned to stone, but you broke out and caused all kinds of trouble not even a year ago. Let’s not forget that Wrath apparently could have broken you out whenever. Wrath is apparently only a few years younger than you and the Princesses. On top of that, you’re still insane! ” Spike threw his arms in that air as he shouted the last part.

“I was conscious the entire time. I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t see, I couldn’t hear! My only reprieve from that stone hell was the spell I applied to Wrath’s eye. When he learned Aura Mastery, he became aware of what I had done and could shut me out at will. He normally wouldn’t though. After a hundred years of that, even a worm would learn to read lips. A thousand years though, and anyone would go a little,” A clock appeared next to Discord head and a small bird flew out chirping cuckoo-cuckoo. “The Sins are immortal, and so are the Elements.”

Spike instantly realized that Twilight, Rarity, and his other pony friends that he had been so afraid of losing one day would always be around if the draconequus was telling the truth. He almost jumped for joy, but Discord was not finished.

“As for why Wrath never broke me out, that damned book said that I had to break out on my own. Somehow my escape would play a role in the darkest days. The book explained little details about us, our appearances, attitudes, an approximation about when we were born, and a brief description of our powers. Wrath used it as a guide to hunt down every Sin and stop their fall before something similar to mine happened again. If I had been that… monster again, I would have killed the bearers of the Elements of Harmony” He took a breath as his tirade came to an end.

Wrath broke in, “We all have a role to play, Spike. The book explained that only a Sin or Element could stop the fall of a Sin or the betrayal of an Element.”

Spike looked at Wrath as if he had just grown a second head, “What do you mean the betrayal of an Element?”

Discord appeared in front of him with a chalk board. “You remember when I broke out right? How I, ‘Discorded,’ your friends? I forced their betrayals to come early. By doing so I could assure that their betrayals were short lived, before they spiraled out of control like…” A picture of a puppy with a basket on its head remained unfinished on the chalkboard.

“I’ll take it from here, Discord. Spike, do you remember when I first mentioned the book?”

Spike nodded quietly.

“Seven sections for the Sins and seven sections for the Elements. There exist a seventh Element known as Unity and it is wielded by two different ponies, Celestia and Luna. Every Element wielder carries a physical manifestation of their Element; the royal regalia worn by the Princesses are theirs. Nightmare Moon was caused by Celestia and Luna betraying their Element. I wasn’t there, but from what I gathered in the aftermath; Luna had fallen into depression as Celestia gained popularity from her subjects. Without the worries of the kingdom to fog her mind, she started blaming Celestia for banishing Discord. It was in those dark thoughts that Luna decided to wrench control from her sister, and Nightmare Moon was born. Celestia sharing her Element could do nothing for her sister, and in her fear of having another Discord created, she banished her sister to the moon before I could arrive. She didn’t want Luna having to live with the thought of killing somepony, and in her haste she caused her own betrayal.”

Spike’s rage was building as he listened. Wrath had left, and in his wake, tragedy had befallen. “And where were you instead of stopping all of this?”

A strong voice came from above, “Stopping me.” A large shadowed figure fell from a window near the ceiling. At the very last second its knees bent and it made not a sound as it landed. It stood up on two legs and walked out of the shadows, revealing a male Minotaur with very toned but not overly large muscles. He was covered in brown hair and two large horns adorned his head. His left pec had a large, wide X shaped scar on it that had healed hairless and pink. “So this is Discord and the dragon huh?”

“You’re early. You weren’t supposed to arrive for another three days, Power House,” Wrath seemed unsurprised about the intrusion however.

“You know me; rather get here early than rush to make it on time, takes more effort.”

“Mother fucker! You totally stole my entrance, you ass!” A gold Pegasus dive bombed through the window, his wings opening at the last second to propel him up and make his landing as silent as the other new additions. He struck a heroic pose, showing off a silver cross-hair shaped mark on his flank. Everyone else in the room, beside Spike, rolled their eyes.

A bucket of water fell on the Pegasus’ head as Discord rolled on the flooring laughing. He wiped a tear from his eye as the newly humiliated intruder stared daggers at him, “So this is Pride. Maybe we should call him bucket head.”

“I’ll kill you!” Pride's wings burst forward and three very deadly looking feathers flew towards Discord. Before they could hit their target, a flash of red evaporated them instantly.

“ENOUGH!” The aura subsided into the pissed off Earth Pony's body. “You two will behave until we’re done here.”

Having his question of who the Pegasus was answered, Spike now looked at the Minotaur, who was staring back. “So if he’s Pride, the Sin of Pride, who are you, Power House?”

“I am the Sin of Sloth young dragon. You look a lot like your egg.”

The room went silent. Spike stood with his mouth agape.

“I hadn’t gotten to that yet,” Wrath said aggravated.

Power House simply gave him a glance before looking back at the whelp. “I know. We’ve been here the whole time. Something we’re short on mind you. He doesn’t need to know about how you stopped my fall, nor how we stopped Pride’s. He needs the information pertaining to him so we may continue.”

“Discord, go lay some traps in the forest in case they come looking for you. Take Pride and Power House with you. Spike and I need to talk in private.”

The three Sins looked at each other before walking out of the throne room.

“How does he know what my egg looks like?”

“Because, back then we were travelling together. Take your seat, you’ll need it.” Wrath motioned to the bean bag chair.

Spike sat down, “What do you mean back then?”

“Back when I met your mother, and she left this beauty mark on my side.”

Wrath stared down at a battlefield from a steep cliff. He had gone looking for food and water as Power House slept. Instead, he found twenty Griffins attacking a lone, dark purple dragoness with red spikes. The dragon should have made quick work of her attackers, but easily avoided attacks were landing effortlessly. A Griffon that had been too slow fell to her sharp claws, as another was caught by her tail. Its neck snapped loudly before being dropped to the floor lifeless. The deaths had not been in vain though. The dragoness’ thick scales had been ripped from part of her body and the flock had swarmed her, clawing and pecking at the now vulnerable flesh that lay beneath.

Wrath had seen enough. Something was very wrong, and he was not about to sit quietly and watch. The air whistled past him as he free fell from the cliff; his wings sprang into existence propelling him towards the onslaught. The Griffons screamed in anger as he barreled into them, tossing them from the large gap bleeding down the once pristine scales. A burst of brilliant red flames reduced three of them to ashes. The smell of cooked Griffon saturated the air.

Within moments one of the birds had descended upon his back throwing him to the ground. “Why are you attacking her?”

“Why not? Dragon scales and eggs are worth a king’s ransom to the right buyer.” A beak stabbed deep into the back of his neck. He gritted his teeth, refusing to give his attacker the satisfaction of hearing him yell out in pain.

A red aura consumed the misfortunate soul as it screamed in agony; its skin evaporated from its bones. Not even a drop of blood escaped from the bastard as he disintegrated. The same could not be said for Wrath’s neck as he felt the disturbingly warm liquid flow from the newly created hole in his body. He rushed back into battle.

Two more Griffons hung from the powerful fangs of the apex predator, blood dripped from the corpses down her face. Seven more bodies littered the floor mangled, charred, or broken. The magnificent creature roared and sent two more Griffons to their death, her tail smashing them into the ground. Wrath came fast from above, his hoof collided with the top of a head, and the head crashed violently into the ground. He wiped his hoof on the grass as the last two assailants attempted to escape. Before he could pursue them, they were incinerated by the dragoness’ fire breath. Wrath instinctively sped forward to check the wound where the scales had been removed. A claw shot at him, and he barely survived by moving at the last second. A gash now adorned his side, a symbol of his impatience. He fell to the ground shouting his pain to the world.

Large red reptilian eyes stared at him as a gentle, weak voice reached his ears, “I’m so sorry. I was still in-”

Wrath righted himself, “I’m fine. It was my fault; I should have given you a second to calm down.” A glance over his shoulder showed him three deep cuts and blood pouring onto his coat. It wasn’t pleasant, but he’d survive as long as he stopped the bleeding. “Just a flesh wound. I’ll need to see your side to check the damage.”

She looked at him, her eyes sad. “My name is Nightshade, little one, and you may do as you please. I fear it won’t matter though.” She laid her body down gently on the grass, brushing any corpses in her way to the side.

One glance at the injury made it abundantly clear what she meant. It was larger than he was, and blood was pouring out like a waterfall cascading down her scales and pooling under her.

“I already know. I can feel my life draining from me.” Nightshade had accepted her fate, and he could only ponder the kind of strength-of-will that took.

Wrath stomped the ground in anger, causing him to wince from his injuries. “If only I’d have been faster.”

“You did everything you could young one. Do not blame yourself; the ones at fault are dead and justice has been dealt. I must ask one last favor of you…”

“Wrath.”

She smiled as she heard the name of her savior. “Wrath, please take care of my egg. You saved it with your actions here today. The father is dead,” a weak cough, “and it seems I’ll be joining him. Without a dragon or extremely powerful magic, my child will never hatch.” She rolled over with the last of her strength revealing a single light purple egg with violet spots. “One last thing, come here.”

Wrath did as he was instructed and gingerly walked over to the dying dragon, trying not to upset his injuries further. When he reached her face she brought a claw up and blew an intense hot flame on it, causing it to glow slightly.

“This is going to hurt. I suggest you find something to bite down on.”

A medium sized branch had fallen close by; he bit into it, fully aware of the dragoness’ intentions. The claw pushed against his side as her thumb was placed on his neck. His teeth dug into the branch as the worst pain he had never known coursed through his body. The claw fell away a few seconds later, the wound cauterized. He could smell his own flesh burning, but knew that the bleeding had been stopped.

“Tell my child about me one day… and that I loved them.” Nightshades eyes closed and a single tear escaped.

He forced his body to crawl to the egg. Once he had it, he wrapped himself around it. Unable to continue any further, Wrath blacked out.

Spike sat crying as he finally discovered where he came from.

Wrath put a hoof on his shoulder to help calm him down. “She was an amazing dragon, Spike. Her love for you was the strongest I have ever seen in my very long life. You remind me a lot of her, even if I only knew her for those few seconds.”

Spike hugged the stallion who had taken him from his friends. “Thank you.”

He gently stroked the young drakes back. “It was, as it has always been, my pleasure. Power House woke up and followed the smell of blood in the air. He carried the two of us back to the camp. I found out later that night; your egg was described in the book. I took you to Canterlot and left you outside the newly built castle with the book. After making sure Celestia had both, I left to pursue the rest of the Sins. This was seven hundred and fifty years ago. Your egg was very special. I’m sure you know how you were hatched correct?”

“Twilight hatched me during her entrance exam.” He released his grip.

“You were the only dragon in Canterlot for one reason. The test for admittance was to merely affect the incredibly resistant shell of a dragon egg with magic, simple levitation would have proven proficiency and talent in magic. The participants were told to hatch your egg for a different reason, whoever managed to complete a task that even Celestia herself was unable to do would be the Element of Magic. Celestia knew who Twilight was from the moment you were hatched, Curator had deemed it so himself.”

The floor suddenly seemed very interesting to the dejected whelp. “So I was just a pawn? A way of finding Twilight?”

A simple confident smile graced Wrath’s face. “Not quite. You have a whole section to yourself in the book, Spike, the Sin of Greed.”

Spike took the news about as well as one could expect. “NO! I refuse! I swore I’d never be greedy again.”

He looked up into the stallions eyes. “You will, it is in your nature. You told me when we were talking that it was about the positive attribute. Instead of seeing your greed as a need for items and other material things, see it as being greedy for your friends. They’re yours; it’s your town, your ponies, your princesses, yours, yours, yours! Control your greed and make it work for you.”

“You're insane!”

Power House returned with Pride and Discord as the drake shouted to the heavens. “Pride and I would have agreed with you not to long ago. Your fall was traumatic, it always is, but you have to accept that it’s part of who you are.”

Discord spoke this time, “Greed Growth is natural for an adolescent dragon, but not the size and power you displayed. It’s also unheard of for a dragon to be able to stop as long as they have possessions. You wanted the white Unicorn more than any of those baubles, and it was that greed for her that freed you from the rest. Rarity stopped your fall.”

Wrath broke in, “In time, you will learn to control your greed and your Greed Growth; it is the ability granted by your Sin.”

Spike could not accept the new information. Controlled Greed Growth was crazy. He had never wanted to see that monster again, but maybe it didn’t have to be a monster. If he was careful, he could use his power for good. Something meaningful could come out of it, and just maybe, Rarity would be proud of the hero he could become. “I, I’ll do whatever it takes.”

Wrath smiled warmly before taking on a foreboding tone, “We need to bring out your full potential first. To do that, Discord is going to have to age you one hundred and fifty years. It will be incredibly painful, and once we start, we cannot stop.”

Spike clenched his fist together, closed his eyes, and gritted his teeth. “I’m ready.”

The Lord of Chaos floated over and placed his talon on Spike’s head. “I may enjoy chaos, but I take no pleasure in causing pain.”

A large white dome appeared around the dragon, pushing Discord back. Inside, Spike screamed as his bones were shattered and reconstructed over and over. His scales crawled as his skin broke and muscles boiled underneath. He clawed at his back as two disfigured bumps sprouted from his shoulder blades. They slowly grew further from his back as his body grew longer and larger. His claws hardened and elongated. Within him it was just as bad, his heart grew and speed up to unreasonable speeds as gallons of new blood were created to compensate for his increase in stature. Lungs were stretched as his stomach and other internal organs expanded. Unearthly sounds filled the enclosed space as Spike’s agony continued.

Outside the dome the four Sins stood in silence as no sound escaped the barrier. Discord was the first to speak, “This will take a few hours, even I can’t cheat time in mere seconds. I suggest we get some sleep; it’s been a long night and tomorrow his training starts.”

The light of day entered the castle as the sun reached its peak in the sky. Discord was asleep on a cotton candy cloud, while Pride slept on his own cloud bed. Power House had fallen asleep against a wall, and Wrath had woken an hour ago from sleeping on the floor. The dome exploded outwards with the sound of glass shattering and a blinding light. Discord fell from his cloud, Pride swore at the light as he stood on his, Power House managed to get over next to Wrath, who was covering his eyes.

In the epicenter of the explosion lay an unconscious, Alicorn-sized, teenage drake. He was toned perfectly and now sported two leathery, amethyst wings with emerald film.

The sound of fingers snapping brought forth a hill of gems and two buckets of water. A few moments later Spike woke up screaming. Noticing that the pain was gone, he stopped. Without asking or waiting for any sort of information, he dove into the hill of gems devouring them.

“You'd think he hadn’t eaten in hundred and fifty years acting like that,” Pride quipped.

A bucket of water diminished to nothing as soon as the hoard was gone. Having been fairly satisfied, he looked before drinking the second bucket. His claws felt around to make sure it was really him, before retracting into his fingers scaring him slightly. “Is this really me?” Even his voice was changed, it was now deeper and coarser. He dared to think, attractive. Nightmares of the transformation were sure to haunt him, but the results spoke for themselves. He had gone from a baby dragon to a young adult, skipping the stage where his wings hadn’t fully developed entirely. Wait until everyone got a load of him!

Wrath cleared his throat, “If you're done staring at yourself, we need to start your training. Flight and marksmanship training with Pride, Draconic ability training with Discord, and finally, combat training with Power House and me. I’ll be teaching you quadruped fighting, while Power House teaches you bipedal. Discord may have given you the perfect body, but you’re not used to it. You missed over a hundred years of practice so prepare to get a thousand year of training in a week. Pride you're first.”

The gold Pegasus strutted over cockily, “I always am. First off, newbie, stretch those oversized wings of yours.”

Spike did as he was instructed, or he tried at least. The new muscles felt foreign and stiff. It took all of his concentration to get them fully open.

Pride seemed bemused at the effort of his new apprentice. “That was pathetic. I’ve seen some horrible displays of wing power, but that takes the fucking cake. You are to open and close those eye sores you call wings two hundred times.”

Spike groaned, “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

“NOW, weakling!”

Spike obeyed, closing his wings with just as much difficulty. The first fifty continued to be challenging, taking over an hour to complete. Each time made the task slightly easier, and wanting to shove Pride’s insults down his throat wasn’t hurting his drive either. He completed the rest in the next hour, his new wing muscles screaming in defiance.

Pride looked down at him like he was a spit out piece of gum. “Maybe if we had a month instead of a week I could actually get you flying. Go talk to Discord, I don’t feel like looking at your ugly mug anymore.”

Spike trudged outside to find the Draconequus sitting in a lawn chair with sunglasses and a sun tanning sheet. “Howdy, Spike.” In the blink of an eye Discord was next to Spike sporting a ten gallon hat and a pair of chaps. “So you want to learn how to be a real dragon, huh?” He spit hitting a rock on the ground that made a ding sound. “Then let’s start with the basics. Show me how hot you are?”

Spike looked more than a little uncomfortably at his teacher, “Uh-”

“Fire breath, don’t flatter yourself,” Discord deadpanned.

A deep breath of air filled his lungs, more than had ever been possible before. He forced his breath out, tapping into his inner fire. The lawn chair disintegrated as a giant emerald fire wave of fire flew past it.

Discord seemed delighted at the random destruction, which was odd being his lawn chair and all. “Not bad kid. Distance, heat, spread, you got a lot of skill, but you lack control.” A target materialized where the lawn chair had been. “This time I want you to push your lips together like you're whistling. Use a short breath and hit only the center of the target.”

Spike did as he was instructed. An emerald fireball erupted from his maw this time, destroying the entire target. “Oops.”

“Right idea.” Discord rubbed his goatee thoughtfully. “Marksmanship is Pride’s problem anyways. I’ll be showing you how to control your flame for different effects. Let’s try something more interesting though. Unicorns aren’t the only creatures with a teleport ability. I know you use your breath to send letters and objects on the occasion, but have you ever tried to tap into your power and send yourself somewhere?”

Spike looked at Discord as if he’d grown a second head, and being Discord, it wasn’t all that improbable. “I can do that?”

“Indeed, but it’s rather uncommon and takes a lot of concentration at first. Close your eyes and focus on your inner flame. Now imagine it expanding around you. Allow it to carry you to your destination. I suggest where the target was, anything further would be too difficult at the moment.”

Spike visualized his flame covering his body; he gave himself away to the fire as he planned his arrival. Opening his eyes he saw that he had not moved an inch. “What the hay?”

Discord just smiled. “I said it was uncommon, which really means difficult.”

After an hour of practice Spike was ready to give up. “This is impossible!”

“Try it one more time; let the flame wash over you.”

Once again his eyes closed. He saw the emerald fire in his body, felt the heat. He coursed it into enveloping his body; he felt a passion in the fire he visualized as he became one with it. He saw where he wanted to go and imagined the flame, him, traveling through the air, eating it as it went, before landing and releasing a dragon from itself. His eyes opened. In front of him stood Discord with his finger pointed to the side. Spike followed the talon and jumped when he saw the castle a good twenty feet away.

“Not too shabby. Now report to Wrath and Power House, and I suggest you prepare for a beating. I’m going to stir up a little chaos.” With a snap of his fingers Discord was gone.

He ran to his next lesson. Sure, Discord made it sound bad, but it was the one that had excited him the most. Wrath and Power House were stronger than anyone he had ever met, even the dragons. As he reached his destination he saw both sparring against one another. His eyes could barely keep up as Wrath sent hoof after hoof at the Minotaur, who dodged them all without any real movement. A fist flew towards Wrath, who mimicked his opponent’s previous movement. The fist went past the side of his face before colliding with a tree and reducing it to firewood. Wrath swept Power House's hooves sending him backwards. A quick flick of the wrist though, and instead of falling on his back he launched himself up, landing with his eyes locked on Wrath’s.

Never taking his eye off of his opponent, Power House spoke, “Enjoying the show, young dragon. I hope so, as you’ll be part of it soon enough.”

The two combatants faced each other and bowed. They walked over to their young charge. It was apparent from the sweat through their coats and the amount of destruction around the castle that they had been at it for hours, but neither was breathing heavily.

Power House stood in front of Spike with his feet firmly planted. “I’ll be your first sparring partner. Unlike Wrath here, we have hands. This offers us a number of unique possibilities. Earth Ponies weren’t the only ones who had to learn to fight without wings or magic. Minotaur’s created a style of bipedal combat known as Jujitsu, as well as, the gentlebull’s sport of Boxing. I’ll be teaching you combat Boxing and Jujitsu. Now come at me.”

Spike charged at the Minotaur and swung wide with his claw, before it even got close Power House grabbed his wrist, slid under his body, took ahold of his stomach, and threw him over his shoulder onto his back. The landing made a loud thud and reminded him of his sore wings.

The bull offered Spike his hand and helped him off the ground. “Jujitsu is about using your opponent’s strength against them and manipulating both theirs and your center of gravity.”

Wrath chimed in from the sides. “Also, keep your arm in; wild flailing like that is easy to counter. Wait for your advisories guard to slip before attacking. Oh, and for Celestia’s sake, get those claws out!”

Spike looked at his hands and realized he still had his claws retracted from hours ago.

Power House took a different stance this time, hopping back and forth on the tip of his hooves. “Get on two legs and pay attention.”

The drake stood on his back legs and rushed his opponent, screaming. His claw barely missed. Power House's fists didn’t; his feet planted firmly into the ground as the first one smashed into his chest, the next nailed him in the face, and finally an uppercut struck his jaw sending him through the air.

“Much better, but you have to watch for counters when you’re attacking.”

Once again a shout came from the sidelines, “Power House's Sin bestows him with perfect efficiency. It’s something every fighter wants. His quick minimalistic dodges use the least amount of movement and energy. His punches use every muscle in his body at the same time. If he wanted to, he could punch through your head with his pinkie. You have to learn to be efficient as well.”

An angry response came from the Minotaur, “You mind if I teach him something! And you forgot to mention that I need almost no sleep or food because of my body’s perfect processing.” He returned his attention to Spike who had managed to pick himself off the floor. “Boxing is about being light on your feet and making your punches fast and heavy. Now get off your ass and hit me!”

After an hour of getting the shit kicked out of him by the machine that was Power House, Wrath decided to take over. Spike could barely breathe; he was so exhausted as the Earth Pony walked up. “For today, we'll work on perception. Instead of me beating you to a bloody pulp, I’ll demonstrate the technique.” Power House threw him a small black piece of fabric. “Spike, tie this over my eyes.” Once he was unable to see, he took his stance. “Now attack me, and don’t hold back.”

Spike, determined to get in at least one blow, threw claw after claw at his opponent. Every attack was avoided at the last second, to the point he had even touched the blindfold a few times. He roared in anger, sending a wave of flame at his combat partner who easily dodged with a back flip. “Good use of your fire breath. I can feel those sharp claws barely missing me.” A hoof struck Spike as he launched forward, snapping his jaw at Wraths throat. “You’re angry, good. Channel your rage into your attacks, but don’t let it consume you. Allow it to fuel you and shatter your limits, but remain in control of that passion and fire.”

Exhausted, brutalized, and happy to be alive, Spike finished his first day of training. An hour of fighting Wrath had been less painful, but far more energy consuming than Power House. It was no wonder those two had been such monsters when he saw them fight. The girls had gotten off very easy. And he had to do this all again tomorrow, yay. He collapsed on his side and fell asleep alone in the castle.

The moon shone on four shadows as they sat outside the castle conversing.

“He’s no me, but he wasn’t bad. I haven’t seen someone work their wings that well so early into flight practice in a century.”

“You should have seen the work over I gave him. I don’t know a Minotaur in existence who could have taken that beating, and then sparred with Wrath.”

“He’s a fast learner, teleportation magic for dragons usually takes years to achieve. As for my mission in Ponyville, Celestia has already appeared with the Elements of Harmony, and the four you hospitalized have woken up. She wasn’t happy when she heard about you taking Spike. Didn’t take long for her to connect the dots and realize you released me. It appears that she intends to prepare them for our coming. I don’t think she believes the book. Also, Luna has joined the fray. She’s rather pissed off with her sister, and I believe she will be the key to winning the Elements over.”

“Good. Fix up Spike’s injuries and restore his energy. It’s going to be a long and brutal week for him, but we need him ready. All fifteen of us are going to have to be at our best if we want to stop this, let alone survive it. Get some sleep. I’m going to visit their graves; it’s been a long time since I’ve been home.”

The Mobilization of the Elements

Beep, beep, beep.

The steady rhythm of the heart monitor had been the only distraction to Rarity and Fluttershy for hours. After the attack from the cloaked pony who called himself Wrath, they had managed to get help from Big Macintosh on account of the hill their picnic had been on being so close to the farm. The three of them had managed to get the rest of their friends to the hospital where they had quickly been checked out and placed in a large room together. According to the doctors, the assailant had been honest about them being fine; it was simply a matter of them waking up. Big Mac had been satisfied with the answer and, although it pained him, he left to complete his and Applejack’s chores. It was decided before he left that Applebloom would be told that the girls were having an impromptu sleepover.

Once he had gone, Rarity and Fluttershy had shared a good cry, but now peace had settled. Both were too lost in their own thoughts to really converse with the other beside the occasional remark or question. They knew that without Spike, Twilight, or Rainbow Dash there would be no contacting Celestia or Luna.

Rarity sat at the window, an ironically sunny day outside, beautiful really; however, inside her heart and inside her head a storm brewed. She had failed her friends, failed Spike. Useless, that is all she had been. When Twilight woke up and she had to tell her how she couldn’t protect Spike, that she had not even put up a fight, it would be just horrible. This really was the worst possible thing.

Yet, it was so much worse for Spike. Her little Spikey-Wikey was with some strange stallion, whose intentions where even more mysterious. He was probably cold and scared, and all she wanted to do was hug him and never let go. Her heart felt like it was breaking in two without him. She had not been this scared since he had jumped off the Crystal Castle to try and stop King Sombra from getting the Crystal Heart. They would get him back and everything would work out in the end like it always did, so why was she so worried? Was it so hard to go without her dragon? Wait, her dragon? She certainly did not think of Spike as some object to be possessed. Blah, who was she kidding; she knew perfectly well what she meant. After all, he had been her Spikey-Wikey, her brave knight, had defended her from Diamond Dogs, defeated his own greed for her, and been there for her whenever she needed him. Losing him finally brought it all to the surface, she… loved him. She loved his smile, his personality, his faults, his kindness, his generosity, the way he treated her, the way he was always there for her, the way he loved her, and most of all, she loved him for simply being him. And now, the dragon she loved was out there somewhere because he had sacrificed himself to save them, while she sat safely in some hospital room far away longing to tell him how she felt. What would the others think? What would her parents or Sweetie Belle think of her for loving a dragon? How would Twilight react? Spike was practically her little brother. Her thoughts continued on like this, but every time she came to the same answer, it didn’t matter as long as Spike and she were happy.

Fluttershy was lost in a sea of self-doubt. So many of her friends had been injured, and she could not even manage to use her stare to stop their attacker. It was more than that, though; Wrath had seemed so genuine when he answered her. Was he really a bad pony if he was just doing what was necessary to save the world? Of course, his method had been less than preferable, but he had tried to do it peacefully before being attacked. He had shaken her like no one else before ever had. If what he said was true, and she had no doubt it was, then something very, very bad was going to happen. His eyes had seemed so worn, yet they held a purpose within them, something unarguable and only known to their owner. Locking eyes with him had been so intense and… terrifying. A shiver ran down her spine and a small whimper escaped her lips. She never wanted to see him again, but deep down, she knew that it was unavoidable. Worse yet, part of her actually seemed thrilled at the opportunity. Tears fell slowly, it was not fair. How had a simple picnic with her best friends turned into one of them being kidnapped, four of them being hospitalized, and Rarity and her reduced to crying quietly keeping their thoughts hidden from one another? Fluttershy curled up into a ball on one of the extra beds the nurses had been kind enough to wheel in. She unknowingly slipped into a restless sleep, and before long Rarity followed suit on her own bed.

Hours passed in a dreamless sleep before an earthquake shook Rarity awake. Quickly looking around, she found her four friends still lying where she had left them, but Fluttershy had disappeared. A small whine came from under the bed, and with a simple flourish of levitation and sheets, a yellow ball of fur with pink hair was revealed. “Fluttershy, darling, it’s okay. Come out from under there.”

“Is it o-o-over?” The frightened Pegasus shivered as she uncovered one eye and looked past her mane.

Rarity looked around carefully before answering, “I think so.”

“Um… if it’s not too much to ask… could I sleep next to… you?”

The sheet lifted from Rarity’s body as she moved over and patted the spot next to her. “Come on.”

“YAY!” Fluttershy sprang into the bed and curled into a ball against Rarity like a cat.

Moving the sheet back over the two, Rarity yawned. “I’ll never understand how you can stare down a dragon and still be so timid.”

“I just can’t stand to see my friends in trouble… but I’ll always be me.” She snuggled further into the blanket and fell asleep.

“You’re a good friend, Fluttershy, and you’re braver then you know.” Rarity stretched carefully, as not to disturb Fluttershy, and joined her friend in slumber.

Far away from the hospital in a large majestic castle upon a mountain, Celestia and Luna issued orders to their guards making sure that their citizens were safe and nothing had come crashing down during the unexplained quake.

Celestia received the final report that only minor property damage had been done; however, with no respite, she shifted her attention. “Earthquakes do not just happen in Canterlot, and according to reports, all of Equestria. They don’t even have a epicenter; it’s not natural.”

Luna stared out into the freshly fallen night she had created in the wake of the tremor. “Maybe something has changed.” She faced her sister. “The kind of power it would take to do something like this, so few exist with it. But even stranger, to what purpose could such a large but inevitably pointless display have? I’m not sure this was intended.”

“Luna, why don’t you take a break and adjourn to your room to think further upon this? Perhaps a few moments of peace will bring the insight we need to solve this mystery.”

It seemed odd that Celestia appeared to be trying to get rid of her, but Luna wrote if off as her imagination. It would serve no purpose, after all. “Very well, Sister. Try not to overwork yourself; even you need a break from time to time.” She flew off towards their combined bedchambers in hopes of obtaining the answers she needed.

As soon as she was gone, Celestia flew out the window and down to the garden. Of the few beings capable of the feat, one of the most dangerous was trapped in stone, a mere few yards from her home. At least, he was supposed to be, but Celestia’s blood ran cold as she found nothing but rubble where the imprisoned god should be. Discord was free.

Fear, remorse, and longing gripped Celestia. The seal had held for over a thousand years last time, how could it have fallen so soon. She summoned as much of her power as she was willing to spare and cast a spell that made her feel absolutely sick and disgusted with herself. She knew without having to see it, Luna was put into a deep sleep; after all, she had performed the magic to do it. It was a necessary precaution to prevent her from attempting to impede Discord’s sealing. Celestia had been hopeful that the spell had worked the first time, but when Seeker, no, Discord had freed himself and taken his chosen name she knew it had failed. As if to prove her point further, Discord had inflicted deep mental scars on Twilight and the rest of the Element bearers with his chaos magic. This time there would be no hesitation, no mistakes.

A challenge remained, though. Luna had been in a much weaker form last time, and containing her within a dream world had been easy. She never even learned of Discord’s return, but now that she was back to her full power the spell would quickly where off. Time was of the essence, Celestia had lost her sister once thanks to Discord, and she was not about to let it happen again. Luna would try to stop her, but they would both end up hurt again, and she could not allow that. Better to protect her sister from the pain and bear the weight of her decision alone.

In a flash of light a scroll, quill, and ink well materialized in front of her. With a quick flourish of the quill a short letter was prepared.

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

My most faithful student, it pains me to write this letter as I worry about opening old wounds. However, Discord has somehow managed to escape again, and you and the other Elements of Harmony are needed in Canterlot immediately.

Princess Celestia.

She rolled the scroll up and sent it to Spike, or at least, she tried to, but the letter fell back in front of her instead. She tried again and again with the same result. Like a ton of bricks it hit her, Discord had somehow blocked her connection to Spike. Twilight would be completely unprepared if Discord attacked. A long buried memory of red washing over stones in a chocolate milk rain entered her mind. It took everything in her not to teleport then and there to Twilight, but doing so would create panic and possibly hysteria among the guards. She had a responsibility as the Co-Princess of Equestria to inform the guards and court of her intended absence and Luna’s indisposed condition. Normally, it wouldn’t be that big of a deal if she ignored the diplomacy, but after a natural disaster she had no other choice if she wished to maintain order.

Each precious second counted as she went about the chore of getting everything taken care of for her departure. Even working as fast as she could to finish, the sun still easily beat her across the horizon. At least now hysteria wouldn’t fill the streets as she took her leave with a jewel encrusted case. Her eyes glowed as the aura around her horn began to shine; time and space unraveled around her as she bent it to her will and then, she was gone.

Back in the hospital, Rarity and Fluttershy were awoken by a bright flash of light. It took a moment for their senses to return to their fully awake states. When they did, Rarity and Fluttershy sprang to action attempting to bow to the Princess of the Sun, causing them to fall into a heap of kicking pony limbs and a sheet.

Celestia held back a laugh as she watched the two mares right themselves, but her amusement was short lived as she saw the state of the rooms other occupants. “I’m too late. Discord will pay will pay for this!”

Rarity and Fluttershy looked at Celestia as if she had grown a second head. “Um, Princess, what does this have to do with Discord?”

“Wait, Discord didn’t do this? What happened then?”

Rarity fielded the quarry before Fluttershy had a chance, “We were confronted by a strange stallion. He demanded that we hand over Spike, and when we refused, things took a turn for the violent. Dash attacked him, and one by one our friends fell until Spike decided to go with him. Twilight’s magic couldn’t even affect him; it was so strange. They’ll be okay, though. Apparently, he didn’t hurt them, just knocked them unconscious.”

Fluttershy spoke up, “He said his name was Wrath.”

“No.” Celestia stepped back. “This is much worse than I imagined.”

“Um… does this have to do with the Sins he mentioned gathering and the great evil that threatens the world?”

Celestia face would have been whiter if it was possible. “How could I not see it? The spell on Discord’s prison would never naturally break this soon. If Wrath freed him-”

“Pardon the interruption, but are you saying this Wrath, who took Spike, freed Discord and now Spike is alone with both off them?” Rarity’s eye seemed to develop a twitch as she finished processing the information.

“Yes, but don’t worry-“

In a fit of rage Rarity let loose on Celestia, “Don’t worry, DON’T WORRY! Spike is not only alone with Discord, but also, some mad stallion who freed him, and you want me not to worry?! Have you lost your mind?! I’m going after him right now!”

Celestia brought her hoof down hard, stopping Rarity in her tracks as she made her way to the door. “Rarity! They won’t hurt him; they need him to gather the Sins. If we rush into this unprepared Spike won’t be the only one in danger. I brought the Elements of Harmony, but we need the others if we’re going to stand any chance.”

“But he’s out there, in greater danger than I even imagined.” Tears began to form in her eyes. “We can’t just leave him.”

An elegant white wing draped over the distressed mare comforting her. “We won’t; however, charging in blindly will only make things worse. Now tell me, how long have the other girls been out?”

She used her hoof to dry the tears before they escaped. “Almost a whole day now, Wrath said they’d wake up in about twenty-four hours. They should be up within the hour if I’m not mistaken, right Fluttershy?”

Fluttershy had been using the bed as a makeshift barrier between her and the arguing. Her head had barely peaked over the top as she watched the exchange between her friend and her ruler. “I believe so.”

“Very well, have you two had anything to eat yet? You look famished.”

“Well…,” Fluttershy’s stomach rumbled and her face turned bright red, “no.”

A table popped into existence with muffins, banana bread, and other delicious looking foods. “Straight from the Castle kitchen, enjoy.”

Fluttershy tentatively took a muffin, Rarity made herself a small salad, Celestia took a piece of cake, and the rest was left for their friends when they awoke. They ate in peace, each lost in their own thoughts. For Rarity, the thought of Discord messing with Spike’s mind refused to leave her minds. Fluttershy was focused on her animals and who would take care of them while she went on another long adventure leaving her little ones behind. Finally, Celestia prepared to break the news to her student and the rest of the Elements about the true identity of their attacker and more importantly, of Spike, but more still, she couldn’t stop seeing the similarities between her and Rarity. The young mare’s eyes had revealed everything, she was in love. Celestia and Luna, like her, had fallen for someone outside their species who held a horrible fate, but unlike them, Rarity had managed to save her love in his darkest hour. The villagers had forgiven the poor drakes loss of control; a sign that in the one-thousand three-hundred and seventy-two years since that horrible night, Celestia had truly incorporated her belief of love and tolerance in the Equestrian society. She was not about to lose Spike like she had lost Seeker and Wrath all those years ago, Rarity and him deserved their happiness. However, Wrath was not the kind to simply do things without a reason. He may have been dangerous, but he always knew what he was doing. She had read the book, but she couldn’t believe that the only answer to her father’s warning was to allow not only Wrath and Discord but four others just as dangerous and bloodthirsty, as well as, an unknowing Spike do as they please. There had to be a better solution! She would stop the immediate threat they presented first and then worry about the greater one coming.

Time passed at what seemed an impossibly slow rate until with no warning Rainbow Dash sat straight up. “I ain’t done… with… you? Where the buck am I?”

Her answer came in the form of a yellow Pegasus tackling her oldest friend back into the bed with a hug. On the brink of crying, “Dash you’re okay. I was so worried.”

Poor Rainbow Dash appeared to be having the life hugged out of her. “Let up, Shy. I’m fine so knock off the waterworks, jeez. You know I don’t do crying.”

Fluttershy sprang back to the foot of the bed. “Sorry, Dash. I was just so worried about you.”

“Where is that bastard, he owes me another round!”

A southern accent came from the next bed over, “Shut it, Dash, I’m trying to sleep here. But now that ya gone and woke me, might as well stay up and plan some revenge.”

“Applejack, darling, how are you feeling?”

Grabbing her hat and using it to cover her face, she responded, “Mighty ashamed I went down so easy,” she tipped her hat back revealing a look of pure determination, “and ready to give that feller the bucking of a lifetime.”

Another voice entered the conversation. “Call me crazy, girls, but that didn’t work out so well the first time.” Twilight took a quick glance around the room. “Where’s Spike?”

Rarity looked at the ground unable to make eye contact. “I’m sorry, Twilight. Spike agreed to go with that stallion, and I couldn’t do anything to stop him.”

Sorrow spread across Twilight’s face as she stood up and walked towards Rarity. Rarity prepared herself for the worst; she would deserve it and so much more for failing Spike. What she received however was a comforting hoof on her shoulder. “We’ll get him back, Rarity. Don’t beat yourself up over it; obviously, there was nothing any of us could have done, not alone at least.”

Rarity’s eyes watered as she laid her head on Twilight’s shoulder. The tears fell freely. “I couldn’t protect him.”

“But he protected all of us, and we’ll have him back in no time, trust me.” She gently rubbed the back of her friends head to calm her as she fought back her own tears.

“CAKE!” A pink blur shot across the room devouring an entire cake minus one piece in the blink of an eye.

“Well, Pinkie’s up,” Dash deadpanned.

The cake covered mare heard her name and sat up. “Hey, Dashie! You should have some cake, it’s good. Woops, never mind, I ate it all. Hey look, Celestia is here too!”

The three previously unconscious ponies, beside Pinkie who started eating cupcakes, stared wide eyed at their ruler. They all quickly bowed and attempted to offer apologies. “No need, my little ponies, I’m just glad you are all okay. I wish I could say that was the only reason I’m here.” Celestia sighed. “Discord has escaped,” a collective gasp filled the room, except from Rarity and Fluttershy who had already been informed, “and I have reason to believe that Wrath is the mastermind behind his early release.”

A look of confusion spread across the four faces, and Dash decided to ask the question they were all thinking, “Uh, who?”

Rarity explained, “They were already… indisposed of, when he told us his name, Princess.”

“That stallion? Wait… Spike is with this… Wrath, and Wrath freed Discord, so… Spike is with Discord!” Panic overtook Twilight towards the end.

Nuzzling her most faithful student, Celestia worked to comfort her. “He’s fine, Twilight. Discord and Wrath need him, and they have no interest in hurting him.”

“How can you be sure?

“I-”

A flash of dark blue light filed the room as Luna materialized. “Sister, I am not amused. Are you trying to hog Seeker’s affection without me?”

Pinkie dashed in front of Luna and started bombarding her with questions, hopeful to meet a new pony, or donkey, or anything really, “Who’s Seeker? Is he a super pony who can shoot laser beams out of his eye that make everything they hit fun? That’d be awesome! I’d be like, pew, pew!”

“He’s-” Celestia’s hoof found its way into Luna’s mouth before she said too much.

“Seeker was Discord’s original name.”

Twilight’s face froze in confusion. “Why would you be trying to ‘hog his affection? And what do you mean Discord’s real name?”

“Sister, how does Twilight know about Seeker? I thought we agreed to never bring up what happened again?”

Based on the information provided, Applejack realized a very important question needed to be asked, “Didn’t ya know he got free none too long ago?”

“What?” Luna charged her sister and stopped when they were face to face with her mane surrounding Celestia menacingly. “Celestia, explain yourself!”

“He was still calling himself Discord; he stole the Elements! I had to reseal him, and I couldn’t afford losing you over him again!” Tears formed in Celestia’s eyes as she explained her intentions.

The display didn’t even faze Luna as her face showed her increasing anger. “You had no right! Had the shield I put up been cast a second later your spell could have lasted for days. Is this how you co-rule a kingdom, by hiding things from me?”

“I’m sorry, Luna, but I just got you back, and I won’t lose you again.”

Luna backed away and softened her expression, but was still clearly pissed off. “Sister, you are an idiot sometimes. What did Discord do to deserve that fate again?”

“He stole the Elements and corrupted these girls with his magic.”

“He had to protect himself from you and your obvious warpath.” For the first time since her arrival, Luna’s voice softened. “Tell me, did he…”

“No, but I had to stop him before he did. I could not allow him to-”

Her rage came back in full force as she stared down her sister. “It may have been horrible, but it was justified.” Once again it dropped to just above a whisper as tears formed in her eyes. “He never hurt anyone who hadn’t attacked him.”

Celestia used her hoof to raise Luna’s chin and stare into her eyes. “Luna, you have to understand. He’s dangerous, and worst still, Wrath has freed him this time.”

“Wrath did? He must be gathering all of the Sins.” She quickly looked around the room. “Where is the dragon?”

“He already came for him, and how did you know about that?”

“We share a room; did you think I wouldn’t peruse the shelves and see the book by our father?”

“ENOUGH!” Everyone in the room focused on Twilight after her outburst. “Who is this Wrath that both of you know him, what book, and what does this have to do with Spike? I want answers, and I want them now!”

Celestia was taken aback by the tone of her most faithful student, and yet she understood her concern, she have done the same had Luna been the one kidnapped. “Wrath was our personal guard thirteen hundred, almost fourteen hundred years ago. There was an attempt to control the throne by the council back then. Wrath and Seeker, Discord as he is now known, got caught in the middle. Wrath lost his entire family for his act of heroism, and Seeker lost his mind while trying to protect his life. Seeker took the name Discord and attempted to capture the throne. With Wrath’s help, we locked him away in stone. However, when the last remaining usurpers behind the attempt were brought before Luna and myself, we gave them life in prison. Wrath was enraged that those behind the death of not only his family but many others that night, as well as, the imprisonment of his best friend had been treated with mercy. He slew them before us and quit. He left our home, and in the years to come, we only heard stories about a stallion that we believed to be him leaving a river of blood against those he deemed deserving of punishment and even death. He only killed murderers, and other truly horrible beings, but that does not justify his actions!”

Twilight looked as if she’d seen a ghost and Rarity had gone white enough to be that ghost. “And you think we shouldn’t be worried about Spike!”

Luna materialized a book that Twilight had never seen before. “I believe this will answer your questions. It should explain everything and make you see why my sister is being too hasty in her decision.”

Twilight could have cried tears of joy as she saw something so glorious and so important, a book by the king of old himself. There was no time for excitement though as she read the cover and started on her research. She mumbled to herself as she read over the glossary. The rest of the girls surrounded her attempting to catch glimpses of the pages from behind the bookworm’s head. “It’s about us, and these Sins, that keep getting mentioned.”

“Being that it’s a rather large read, I suggest starting with the Sins of Wrath, Gluttony, and Greed, in that order.” Luna used her magic to flip to the first of her suggested chapters.

Speed reading was one of Twilight’s proudest talents and one of the most used. She flew through the chapter in seconds taking in every piece of information. “So the stallion that attacked us is this Wrath. According to the book, he has the power to destroy things with a red aura that flows from his body. It’s listed as his special ability.”

Celestia allowed herself a moment to explain, still angered by her sister’s decision to show them the book, “He used it to kill the ponies we mentioned before; we also believe it’s how he slew the ones who killed his family. It is extremely dangerous and horrible, and we are not sure on the range.”

Everyone else seemed content, but Fluttershy felt something important had been left out. “What was he like… if you don’t mind me asking?”

Luna reminisced about her old companion sadly, “He was our best friend. He was stubborn and way to serious, but we trusted him more than anyone beside each other and Seeker. We would drag him along on our nightly escapades playing harmless pranks, and he’d come complaining but enjoying himself the whole time. He was a lot like Twilight’s brother, but less upbeat. After that night, the playful, happy side seemed to drain out of him.”

Fluttershy stared at the ground pitifully. “It must have been horrible.”

“Sadly, dear Fluttershy, it was. He was forced to witness the entire ordeal.”

Twilight had already started on the chapter pertaining to Gluttony. “So that’s how Discord does it! Sorry, but the book explains that Discord’s magic is because of this Sin of his. It was the only kind of magic I ever had a problem trying to recreate. Did he really look like this?”

Her eyes lit up as Luna responded, “No, he was so much better. Celestia and I were head over heels for our special Kirin.”

Silence filled the room as Luna unknowingly committed a small faux pas. Rarity was the first who managed to attempt to from words. “You… Celestia… with Discord… what?”

“Indeed, we were quite the trio, even if Wrath was the only one to know. And the things he could do with his-”

“LUNA!”

“I was going to say magic,” Luna smiled devilishly, “although, his draconic heritage was extremely pleasing, too.”

“LUNA!” The shade of red Celestia’s face took outmatched the rest of the room, except Luna, who was acting innocently.

Twilight attempted to remember if there were any memory erasing spells but had no luck. “Ignoring that rather scarring piece of insight I never wanted to know, that leaves Greed.”

A light bulb went off in Rarity’s head. “It couldn’t be.”

Twilight swallowed loudly. “It-it is. According to this, Spike’s egg was used to discover I was the Element of Magic, and Spike himself is… the Sin of Greed.”

The sun Goddess’s heart tore at her. “I did what I could to raise Spike right. He was like a son to me, but I always feared when this day would come. We need to find him before Wrath and Discord have a chance to sway him.”

“Sister!” It appalled Luna that Celestia would act so hastily and excessively. “The Sins are needed to stop the coming darkness. Would you really damn them more than fate already has?”

Celestia was quick to counter her sister though, “Think about Wrath and Discord, Spike may be innocent enough, but four more like those two could be the end of everything. As far as I’m concerned, they are just as dangerous as this unknown darkness.”

However, Luna would not back down so easily. “You’re wrong. Father’s whole point was that the world cannot have the scales tip too far one way. We need harmony and chaos, happiness and sorrow, good and evil, without one the other cannot exist.”

“At what price!”

“The price of not heeding his words would be much steeper. We cannot allow our past to destroy our future. I already made that mistake once, and I won’t allow it to happen again.” Luna’s unwavering tone made it clear; she would not let her sister to do as she wished, no matter what.

Celestia threw her hooves in the air in frustration. “Fine! In the morning we set out to find the Sins and decide what is to be done with them.”

Rainbow Dash, being the leader of the weather control team and knowledgeable about controlling the world around her, realized something extremely strange. “If you two have been here the whole time, who raised the moon and lowered the sun?”

Celestia and Luna stared out the window at the sky, specifically the replacement that had been brought in without their intent. “Does the moon look like a pumpkin to anyone else?”

A very mismatched looking butterfly with two yellow and red eyes of varying size, which had been in the room listening intently for hours now, stifled a laugh.

Luna laughed gently at the strange sight. “Seems Discord is looking out for us in his own silly way.”

“It is kind of funny,” Celestia conceded.

The Meeting of the Sins

The castle itself seemed to shake as the gold Pegasus screamed at the drake who barely hung in the air. “Is that all you got!? Maybe I should just have Discord take your wings since you obviously can’t use them! You’re not a damn bee, slow your wings and propel yourself forward with that ugly thing you call a tail!”

Normally, Spike would have been thrilled to even get off the ground, but the last hour of being degraded was wearing thin. His wings hurt; the muscles ached worse than yesterday. All he wanted was-

“Get your ass back on the ground! I can’t stand watching this anymore!” Pride glided down slowly, allowing Spike to watch and mimic the action. The drake was rather impressive, completing the action with a perfection rarely seen in new fliers. His landing was a little rough, getting a mouthful of dirt for not slowing down as he fell face first into the ground. Pride offered his hoof to the drake to help him up. “Your wings’ gargantuan size allows you to displace large amounts of air with slow beats, remember that. It’s not like being a Pegasus; your tail propels you and the angle of your wings controls your ascent, decent, and turning. Hard to believe, but I’ve seen a lot worse than you.”

“Well that’s… good, I think.”

“I think it’s time we move on to marksmanship training. Discord jumped at the opportunity to make us a range which, in retrospect, was a bit strange. Come on, it’s just on the other side of the castle where you trained with him.” As Pride rounded the corner it all made sense. “That bastard.”

The range was filled with targets that bared a striking resemblance to Pride in a number of very awkward and embarrassing positions, while it had Discord in a number of regal ones and wearing a top hat that said good guy across the band.

“Well… it’ll have to do and later, I’ll kill him. Now watch.” Pride aimed, taking his time to focus on his target. He took in a deep breath and, in one motion, released it quickly while flaring one of his wings, sending three feathers out. They soared though the air, almost too fast to see, and hit the mark; one between Discord’s eyes and the other two right up his cardboard nose. He smirked before suddenly shooting out a flurry of feathers, each hitting every single Discord target in equally unique and insulting ways. “The key is to know just how much force is required to make the shot and then visualizing it in your head. See the finished shot,” he tapped the drake’s head, “in here. Finally, in one heartbeat, you strike.” His hoof pointed to the first target he attacked. “I want you to replicate my shot with your fire-”

“Got it.” Spike blew a fireball, taking off Discord’s entire head and burning it to a crisp.

For his effort, he received a quick, sharp pain to the back of his head. “Next time, let me finish. This isn’t an exercise in speed but in precision, patience, and control. Do it again on the next target but this time aim, take a deep breath, see the shot up here, press your lips together for a small burst of fire, and make the shot.” He moved behind Spike, placing his hoof on the dragon’s shoulder. “Take your time.”

Doing as he was instructed, Spike planned out his shot. He felt the air enter his lungs as his inner flame heated up in preparation to mix with the oxygen and ignite outwards, and then, he released it.

Pride looked at the damage. “Better; this time you only took out half his head and, as much as I enjoy watching Discord’s face burn, that’s not bad for your first real attempts at weaponizing your fire breath. Still, we need to work on your control. We’ll have to bring Discord in; he’s a lot more knowledgeable at producing different levels of flame with dragon breath than I am. For now, we’ll work on your range.”

“I have a question.”

With an eyebrow raised, Pride decided he would at least hear out the drake’s query. “What do you want to know?”

“How come you’re being so much nicer with this than with the flight training?”

“Flying requires a lot of physical force; it’s messy and hard to learn. I need to be firm, demanding, but here, this is about being calm.” He looked off into the distance, at something beyond Spike’s comprehension. “In battle you won’t have time to organize your thoughts, calculate, or take your time to make the perfect shot. You have to be able to create your own peace inside of you so that you can do it all in the heat of the moment. I choose the best method for the lesson.”

Spike rubbed his chin thoughtfully, and nodded his head gently. “Fair enough… sometimes you have to be the bad guy; I can respect that. So how do you do that thing with your feathers? I’ve never seen another Pegasus do that.”

“It’s part of my power as a Sin, and, before you ask, I won’t tell you anymore until you can light my feathers on fire without so much as singeing one of these targets. Think of it as motivation to do better. Now, if we’re done with story time, we need to get back to work.”

Reinvigorated by curiosity and a new goal, Spike prepared to give his accuracy another try.

Above him, on one of the castle’s balconies, Wrath and Discord stared down at the training. Discord was the first to break the silence, “He has a lot of talent.”

Wrath sighed. “It comes with being a Sin, but we don’t have enough time. I had hoped to at least get a week’s worth of training in, but, with Luna and Celestia now in play, working together to find us, I’m afraid our time will be limited even more. The boy may be a fast learner, but time is too short. Sooner or later, we will be found.”

A shadow appeared behind them. “Then why don’t we cheat time?”

Without turning around, Wrath replied to the voice, “And how do you suggest we do that, Power House?”

“If Discord can speed time up around Spike, surely he can speed it up to a lesser extent around the castle to give us more time.” Power House stepped onto the balcony, joining them.

“Is it possible?”

Discord stroked his goatee while sipping on a glass of chocolate milk. “Yes, but I don’t have the power to use such a spell over such a large area for an extended period of time.”

“Plus, you won’t be able to work with him under the strain from the spell.” Wrath smiled, watching Spike accidently incinerate an entire Discord dummy. “The good news is that the other two might be able to provide the solution we need.”

“So for now, we stick to the original plan and tomorrow, when they arrive, we can look into this further.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Discord looked down at the range. “I think I’ll head down and give them some help. If my focus is going to be on making time obey my will the next few days, I better make sure he has everything he needs. That, and, if he destroys anymore of those handsome devils, I’ll have to have him tried for crimes against beauty.” In a flash of light the god of chaos was gone, reappearing below in an explosion of whipped cream and apple jelly, angering a now covered Pride greatly.

On the other side of the forest lay Ponyville, where all seven Elements of Harmony convened inside the local library, freshly released from the hospital. All eyes fell on Celestia for guidance, except Luna who appeared to be humming quietly. “I have ordered teams consisting of Wonderbolts and Royal Guards across Equestria to look for any strange phenomenon, as well as Wrath, Discord, and Spike. As soon as they find something they’ll report to me and we can begin our search.”

Dash was fidgeting around; patience was never her strong suit. “So you expect us to sit around and do nothing while we wait?”

Looking over the other six, Celestia spoke calmly but with the direness the situation required, “No. I don’t know how long this is going to take, or… if any of us are coming back. I want you to use this time to get everything in order. Say goodbye to your families, tell them you love them, find someone to take over your responsibilities while you’re gone, things like that. In my case, I’ve put Cadence and Shining Armor in charge of Equestria and the Crystal Empire in our absence. This will be the hardest thing I’ve ever asked you to do, and for that, I am sorry. I’ll get in contact when we’re ready; for now, go.”

The six ponies bowed to their leaders and headed for the door. Once outside each went their own way, including Twilight who teleported off in a flash of light. However, before long a certain white unicorn returned and knocked on the door. “Celestia, Luna, it’s me, Rarity, may I come in?”

A white aura enveloped the door and it opened slowly for the mare. “Of course, come in Rarity.”

Luna laid on a couch next to Celestia with a romance novel held in her magic grip. “Back so fast, Rarity?”

Placing her own book on cake designs down, Celestia looked up at the young mare. “I believe Rarity wishes to discuss matters of the heart with us, sister.”

“I would have never guessed.” Luna rolled her eyes at her sister and tried not to laugh as she watched the blush on both white mares. “So, Rarity, what was it you wished to discuss specifically?”

Rarity was blushing lightly, moving her hoof about in the air. “I might, sort of, have feelings for a close friend of mine, but we’re so… different.”

Smiling evilly, Luna looked at Rarity playfully. “I see, you feel quite strongly for the young drake, Spike.”

That was it, Rarity’s entire face lit up a deep red. “How-”

“I’ve been alive a long time, dear Rarity. Plus, it’s my duty to watch over the dreams of our subjects. While you might not be too direct about it even in your sleep, it’s no coincidence he keeps showing up in your nightly adventures. Think about it, purple and green are your knight’s colors when he comes charging in on two legs, even with a face mask, not a hard connection to make.” The Goddess of the Night let her book close so she could show Rarity the cover, a dashing knight and a beautiful maiden with a striking resemblance to her.

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but it’s kind of creepy you spy on ponies in their sleep…”

Luna smirked mischievously. “I only look in on those in turmoil in order to provide guidance, even when it’s simply a heart that can’t have what it wants.” She threw Rarity a wink.

“But that’s it isn’t it? I can’t have him, can I? Look at us, we’re different species, we’re different ages, and we’re into different things. So why can’t I stop thinking about him now that he’s gone?” Her hooves went up in the air as Rarity looked as if she was about to break down, tears on the edge of her eyes.

Celestia draped her wing over the distraught unicorn. “You are not the first pony to fall for a dragon, Rarity. In a sense, even Luna and I have fallen for the charm and dangers that come with a dragon love. When a dragon loves you, it considers you its greatest treasure. No creature will protect or care for someone it loves as much as a dragon. Sometimes they’re possessive, but, usually, it’s only because they’re worried. When they make a mistake they go to great ends to fix it, for they are proud. They look for beauty on the outside and the inside; only something they consider worthy is worth their time, for they are vain. They may threaten anything that endangers them or what they love, but they aren’t evil, for they are passionate. Dragons aren’t monstrous beasts, but majestic noble creatures.”

“And they’re amazing under the covers.”

“LUNA!”

Feeling quite proud of getting her elder sister to lose her composure with her now red face, she took an extra bit of enjoyment. “What? It’s true.” She turned and faced Rarity, the picture of seriousness. “Look, Rarity, you can have him. So what that you’re different species? If it was good enough for Seeker’s parents, if it was good enough for the two Princesses of Equestria, than it’s certainly good enough for you. The drake is what, four or five years younger than you? Who cares? That’s hardly a age difference at all. Look at me and Tia, we’re over a thousand years old, but if I hooked up with Twilight Sparkle or any of your other friends do you think anyone would say anything? Of course not, you are mentally capable and mature enough to be in a relationship and, from what I’ve seen, the drake is as well. In fact, I’ve heard he’s led Twilight on the right path a few times when she’s… how did you put it Tia, lost it?”

Celestia coughed slightly. “That’s not important.”

“As for being into different things, that’s good; it’ll keep things interesting. You have a lot in common too, a love of gems and beauty for instance. You both aim to see who someone is, not simply what they look like. A good relationship is about having things that you can relate to as well as broadening each other’s horizons. It’s a mixture,” Luna smiled, “a balance, if you would.”

“But what about when he acts childish?”

Shrugging, Luna floated over to the conflicted mare. “It’s not a bad thing to be a kid at heart; I think you’ll understand better when you meet Wrath again. Our poor friend has lost his happiness and any sense of the innocence that most of us are graced with has been ripped from him. I doubt he’s the only one like that among the Sins.”

Celestia removed her wing and stood next to her sister. “What matters most is that you try. Regret is a horrible thing to live with… trust me.”

With that they returned to their books, leaving Rarity to her own thoughts.

Then, with a streak matching the color of the sky following behind, a Pegasus in a blue and yellow suit flew into the library. He stopped and saluted. “Soarin’, second in command of the Wonderbolts, here with urgent news for the Princesses.”

Celestia tried not to roll her eyes; she had always hated the formalities of her job. “At ease, Soarin’. What information have you brought for us?”

The Wonderbolt relaxed ever so slightly as he prepared himself to debrief the Princess. “There appears to be some sort of unexplainable phenomenon occurring when we tried to fly into the Everfree Forest. We would fly over and find ourselves suddenly back where we started. Of equal importance, the unicorns from the Guard that were powerful enough in my squad attempted to teleport a few feet into the forest; they were completely unable to get even a few inches in. As a last ditch effort, we attempted to enter by hoof. Our results were only slightly better. We had no problem moving into the forest, but the whole place was booby trapped. Nopony was hurt thankfully, but a few of our less… quick members, were splattered by cream pies. I decided to pull my squad back and report to you, as were your orders if we encountered any of our targets or something strange.”

“I see. Thank you for the information, Soarin’. You’re dismissed, and send a message to the other teams to cancel their searches. I believe we have found what we are looking for.”

“As you command.” The Pegasus saluted and was gone.

Rarity, who had sat quietly through the proceeding, turned her attention to the Princesses, but when no orders came she found herself a tad lost. “Aren’t you going to call the other girls back so we can begin our journey?”

Without looking up from the book she had started reading again, the Sun Goddess considered the mare’s words. “Nope. It’s getting late; they will be much more effective after a good night’s rest. Plus, it would be unfair to offer them this time to get their houses in order and then take it away.”

“But this is urgent!”

This time, Luna was the one to respond, “Charging headfirst would be dangerous, and it would only make matters worse if we had to stop to camp. When you faced me as Nightmare Moon, I had very limited time to set up my traps; Discord and Wrath have had almost four days. Trust me, when it comes to those two, a few hours alone would have sufficed. We need to go in prepared.”

“I suppose that makes sense…” Rarity took a deep breath and tried to relax, “I’m just worried.”

Celestia sympathized with the unicorn, under her calm demeanor a feeling of anticipation and concern stormed. “I understand, but you need to be ready as well. We don’t know what we’re walking into. Go, get ready, enjoy some time with your family because, first thing in the morning, we leave.”

“Of course, your majesty.” As worried as Rarity was, the thought of spending what was left of her night with her family that she normally estranged was very appealing. Her parents might have embarrassed her, and Celestia knows Sweetie Belle can be a handful, but she loved them very much. They had always believed in her, supporter her, and they were very proud of her. She could only think of one other she would want to spend the night with given the opportunity. “I think I’ll do just that.” Rarity headed for the door.

The Sun Goddess smiled warmly at her young subject and friend. “Celestia is fine, Rarity.”

Her sister’s ears perked up. “And Luna.”

“Of course, Celestia and Luna. Goodnight.” Rarity left, closing the door behind her.

Once Rarity was gone, Twilight stepped down from upstairs. “So, Rarity actually likes Spike back, guess I owe him a few bits.”

Celestia cocked her eyebrow at the unexpected visitor, even if it was technically her home. “Indeed, my student, but perhaps we should have a talk about eavesdropping?”

“It seemed like it would be rude to interrupt, and Rarity might not have been as forthcoming had she known I was here.”

Frowning, Celestia realized that Twilight may have become a bit too rational. “That does not make it acceptable.”

“My apologies, Prin- Celestia.”

“As long as you understand.”

“I’ve been doing some reading. “Twilight levitated the book over; already open to a specific page. “Is it true?”

Celestia did not need to look; she knew exactly what page it was. It was inevitable. “Yes.”

It was as if Twilight had been backhoofed with that single comment. Tears began to form in her eyes as she tried to fight them back. “Why- Why didn’t you tell us?!”

There was regret in Celestia’s voice as she spoke, “It seems you’ve had a lot of time to think about it. Many ponies would think such a thing a blessing, but you’ve realized it’s a curse.”

“How am I supposed to act knowing this! Knowing that everyone but us will…” Her defenses fell as tears streamed down her face.

Celestia hugged her young student; the poor mare fell apart in her hooves. “The same way Spike, Luna, and myself do, by appreciating what time we have with those we love.”

“It- It’s not fair.”

“I know.” Running her hooves down Twilight’s back, Celestia attempted to calm her down.

Luna had sat quietly observing, until now. “It is not so bad. Think of all the books you can read, all the things you will learn, what you’ll be able to see that so few others have even dreamed about, and you won’t be alone. Not like Celestia, myself, or even Wrath were. Make the best of an unwanted situation, there are worse fates.”

“But I’ll lose so many…”

Loosening her grip, Celestia looked Twilight in the eyes. “You will be graced with getting to meet many more, to teach them about the world.”

“What about the rest of the girls?”

She bit her lip. “I would appreciate it if you kept this between us for now. I believe there will be a better time to inform them, when their perspectives on the matter will be different. It is a hard fate to face, but not one that must be faced alone.”

“You’re asking me to keep this from them…” Twilight turned away from Celestia, unable to face her, “and like every time you’ve asked anything else of me I can’t seem to stop myself from saying yes. Why is that? Why am I letting my friends wait to find out instead of telling them!?”

Using her hoof, Celestia made Twilight look at her. “Because, you trust that I know best… and, I’m afraid, that’s not always true. But know that I always have your best interest at heart.”

Twilight dried her tears and smiled ever so slightly. “I know.”

That night, six ponies fell asleep after having a number of heartfelt talks with their families. Some had stayed, sleeping in the bedrooms of their youth, while others spent time with new families. Each was graced with having someone who loved them nearby. Only a few miles from them, a dragon collapsed utterly exhausted into a deep slumber as four others used the night to prepare for the future.

Morning came, as it always had, and with it, the dragon stretched his wings and slowly awoke, still lost in between reality and dreams. With blurry eyes, he stared at a familiar blob of colors, the most beautiful colors in the world to him. They made his heart flutter in ways he never truly understood. “Rarity? Rarity, is that you?”

“Hello, darling.”

That sing-song voice that carried with it a touch of regality was unmistakable as it cascaded over his ears. “How are you here? Are the rest of the girls with you?”

“No, it’s just me, Spikey-Wikey. Aren’t you happy to see me?”

Happy was an understatement. “Of- of course, I just didn’t expect-” A white, well-manicured hoof covered his mouth.

“I have to say, I like the improvements. You’re so muscular and handsome now.”

Spike had to be dreaming still; Rarity was flirting with him! “Um… just a little time altering magic.”

“If it’s done this much for the rest of your body, I bet you’ve grown in other places to, huh?”

Spike’s entire face lit up. He may have been younger than the rest of the girls a few days ago, but Spike was fully aware of what Rarity meant. She was getting closer and closer to him, her lips inches from his own. He could feel her breath; this had to be real!

“Maybe, you’d like to show me just how much? It is just you and me here, after all.”

Spike pushed her away, growled, and sprang to his feet, putting some distance between them. “You, you’re not Rarity!”

“Perceptive, aren’t we?

He was furious now. How dare something attempt to impersonate Rarity and say those things? His claws unsheathed, ready to tear the impostor to pieces. “Stop looking like her, sounding like her, now!”

“Fair enough, but what gave me away? I thought I was quite the exact copy.”

Spike would have laughed if he had not wanted to throw up. “Rarity would never do something so unladylike!”

The flesh started to burn away in a pink flame, revealing black skin underneath. “This is why I do random existences, too much effort doing someone real. I would hate to be like the rest of my kind.”

A third voice, one very familiar to Spike but completely unexpected, joined the conversation. “Trixie thought your portrayal of the white unicorn was quite inspired.”

The remaining parts of what had once been Rarity disappeared, and, in her place, stood a black insect-like pony-shaped creature with a red plate on top of its back, two insectoid like wings, a horn, and almost completely light scarlet eyes. The voice that came from the changeling was feminine in nature. “If a disguise doesn’t trick the target, it’s a failure; although, I appreciate the compliment, Trixie.”

A light blue unicorn with a silver mane and tail stepped out of the shadows. She wore a purple wizard’s hat and cape with stars on them and had a wand and crescent moon Cutie Mark. “Well, after last night, Trixie can think of a few more.” She looked at the changeling with half-lidded eyes. “You truly exemplify lust at its finest. Don’t you agree, Wrath?”

Wrath dropped in from above, barely making a sound. “Very cute, Trixie. Lust is very good at what it does.”

A minotaur appeared behind Spike, chuckling. “More like, who it does.”

Dive bombing his way inside, Pride stood next to Lust. “Must we really call Lust an it? I know she swaps between mare and stallion, or whatever the equivalents of whatever species she’s pretending to be, but she does tend to choose female and it’s the voice she always uses.”

“Trixie thinks that Pride just doesn’t like the thought that he’s slept with someone who’s been a stallion before.”

His wings flared threateningly as he stared the unicorn down. “That’s it, when I’m done with Discord, you’re next.”

Floating up through the floor, Discord took his place, finishing the circle around Spike. “Are we making sex jokes? Cause if we are, I have a few about Celestia’s flank I’ve been saving for centuries.”

With a look of pure bemusement, Wrath shook his head at the group. “The seven most dangerous existences in the worlds gathered for the first time, the first meeting of the Sins, and we’re cracking inappropriate jokes. I shouldn’t even be surprised.”

Discord was having a lot of fun at this point, Trixie’s harassment of Pride helping greatly. “Loosen up, Wrath. I was only gone for a thousand years; when did you have time to become such a wet blanket? Coincidently, something Luna was very good at making.”

“Enough!” Wrath was fuming at this point. “We don’t have time for this! You five may have forgotten, but we need to train Spike. We’re far more limited on time than we had originally planned.”

Spike was feeling rather relieved. As much fun as getting yelled at by Pride was, it was a hell of a lot less awkward than this.

“Now, I believe some introductions are in order. Trixie, why don’t you start since you’ve already met him? Albeit, against my instructions.”

“The Great and Powerful Trixie, greatest showmare in all of the world and the Sin of Envy, at your acquaintance.” Magical fireworks went off behind her, spelling Trixie in the air. “My powers as a Sin allow me to copy any spell, ability, or talent instantly using my vast amount of magical power, knowledge, and creativity.” In a display of her ability, she released a torrent of flames into the air from her mouth. “Of course, it drains my reserves much faster than the natural form and is often just the slightest bit weaker, unless it’s a creation of unicorn magic in which I am naturally adept. And as for you Wrath, you are not the boss of Trixie. I was curious about the Element of Magic so I went and took a look.”

“And almost destroyed a town showing off. To make matters worse, you couldn’t even stop the Ursa Minor without giving yourself away.”

Trixie cleared her throat. “Yes, well, it allowed me to see the Element of Magic at work. It is not Trixie’s fault she was being so stubborn about challenging me.”

“Hey!” Spike felt the sudden need to stand up for his lifetime friend. “Twilight saved the day, even if Snips and Snails are technically the ones who put everyone in danger.” To Spike, it seemed as if Trixie’s eyes lit up at the memory of Twilight putting the Ursa Minor to sleep.

“Yes, she’s quite splendid with magic. I do wonder what else she can do.” Trixie was biting her lip now.

“Hmm, yes. I can taste the lust from here.” Trixie’s face took on a red hue as her loss of situational awareness hit her. “Anyways, my name is Lust, young dragon. Before you ask, no, it’s not my real name, but changeling rarely translates well into the common tongue. As such, much like Pride, I choose to take my Sin as my calling. Because of my Sin, I can feed off lust or love, unlike most changelings. I prefer lust; it is much easier to simply transform into a hot mare or stallion than attempt to replace or lie to someone long enough to garner their affection. Plus, I never really liked the practice, I understand why my kind does it, but such cruel deception is not for me. My Sin provides one other unique ability, I can transform into anything. Usually, a changeling is limited to only being able to transform into something of similar size and shape; I have no such limitation.” Once again pink flames encased Lust’s body, but this time an almost full grown dragoness appeared with black scales and pink spines. “It’s quite useful.” She demonstrated how complete the transformation was with a quick breath of pink fire.

“Is it always pink?”

In response to the drake’s question, the spikes changed to blue and her next stream of flame mimicked the color change.

Wrath could not help but smile. This was more like it in his opinion. “Now that introductions are complete, Spike, go train with Pride. Trixie and Lust, I need you with Discord and me. We have something we’d like to test.”

With almost everyone having their own things to do, Pride looked at the last remaining free-hand. Luckily for him, it was exactly who he needed. “Power House, mind helping me with Spike’s flight training?”

“Not sure how much I can do without wings, but sure.” The minotaur moved from his spot leaning against the wall and followed the Pegasus and Spike outside.

That left the four others to discuss their plan. “Trixie, can you mimic a time distortion spell? We want to speed time up around the castle to give Spike more time to train.”

“It’s possible, but that sounds rather draining. Wouldn’t it be smarter to only distort time around where Spike is training?”

Simultaneously, Wrath and Discord face-hoofed and face-clawed.

“I thought so.” The smugness in Trixie’s voice escaped no one.

“Yes, of course.” Discord was not one to overlook details; being out-smarted by the other showoff was not helping either. “But are you sure you can do the spell? Chaos magic isn’t like normal magic.”

She shot him a look of annoyance. “I can do anything you or anyone else can do. Hell, the Great Trixie can even use Wrath’s Fury.”

Wrath looked less than amused at the thought of someone recreating his extremely dangerous and hard to control power. “The Great Trixie would be smart not to do that for long if she doesn’t want to end up killing herself.”

Amidst the conversation, Lust returned to her changeling form. “So what does this have to do with me?”

“I was hoping you could funnel some of your excess power into her. We both know you keep more than enough in reserve.” Wrath had personally seen Lust lead three stallions and a mare away at the same time one night.

“Best to be prepared.” Lust took a moment to consider it. “Very well, but I’ll only relinquish so much of my power to her, and only in small increments as needed. If this is going to get as bad as you claimed, I’ll need all the power I can get.”

“Then we have plan. And Trixie, you will have to maintain the spell alone when Discord is needed to train him.”

“Understood.”

Discord giggled like a schoolgirl. “And if Lust needs more power, she can just turn into Twilight and take it from Trixie.”

Before Trixie could attempt to send the God of Chaos to the moon, a boulder smashed through the window and landed between them. Power House’s unmistakable voice followed, “Sorry, my bad.”

Wrath looked at the window, already self-repairing itself thanks to Discord’s magic. “Right, let’s get to it then.”

And just like that, the six eldest Sins began working to train the young Sin of Greed, while on the other side of the forest the Elements of Harmony prepared to march on the castle.

The First Encounter

Celestia raised the sun with a heavy heart. She found herself surrounded by the six young mares in the humble cottage of Fluttershy that her sister and she would be leading into the Everfree Forest, right into the base of six of the world’s most dangerous threats. Luna was so sure that they were the heroes the world needed, but she had never seen the reports over the years she had been gone of the destruction and blood that had been left in their wake. In truth, she knew specifically of four of them. The other two had somehow stayed hidden, but she never doubted they were just as bad. Wrath, Discord, the Minotaur representing Sloth, and the Pegasus who represented Pride had proven themselves to be far less than trustworthy or merciful. The graveyards they had filled.

She lead them to the edge of the forest to one of the few paths that wound into the strange wood; Discord’s magic had never truly disappeared from it. Celestia wasn’t even surprised to find a glowing, flamboyant sign with a giant, glowing arrow pointing to the path. Under the arrow, a message was written:

Hello Tia, Lulu, and other assorted Elements of Harmony. To make your hike more fun I have enchanted this path to lead you directly to us and filled it with amusing, non-lethal traps. Any attempt to enter the woods through other means will instantly transport you out as will attempting to go off the path. See you on the other side!

-Love Discord!

To say Celestia was unpleased, as was the rest of her party, was an understatement.

Almost fourteen hours passed since their entrance into the woods. What should have been a few hours of walking depending on their destination had turned into one of the strangest and longest walks she ever had, and they still weren’t done. With no idea how far from their goal they were, Luna had made the wise decision to set up camp as it got close to when she had to raise the moon, least they send Equestria and possibly the world into a panic.

Discord’s traps had been set in such a way that they would have to waste obscene amounts of time on each one. Bubble gum spider webs had been the first, they were easily noticeable and presented no real risk to the mares themselves; however, a number of creatures big and small had been caught within the sticky confines. Fluttershy had made it clear they were not leaving until every one of them was safe and the webs properly disposed of. Despite the urgency of their situation, they all saw the potential of the danger to the wildlife of the forest and agreed. It had taken hours to cut each animal out safely. Those in a panic were exceptionally bad, but Fluttershy’s ability to calm them was vastly helpful.

Things continued on like that: sand-traps made of tapioca pudding, a pair of talking signs claiming that one lied and one told the truth, a sphinx made of brown sugar, and, worst of all, a pitfall with the world’s bounciest trampoline at the bottom. That trampoline itself was a simple jump down and over to the other side, but Pinkie Pie had other, more fun plans. It was as if the mare had never seen something so amazing and no matter what anyone tried she would somehow escape and return to bouncing on the trampoline screaming, “Weeeeeeeeeee!” as she bounced above the trees. In the end it took the combined magical power of both Princesses and Twilight to magically hold the sugar-charged, party pony in the air as they walked away. The same pony had left to use the little fillies room moments ago while they were all around the campfire.

Pinkie burst out of the woods, a giant grin on her face. “That trampoline is the best!”

A dumbstruck Twilight looked at her in a way that was hard to describe, a mixture of anger and curiosity. “You went back!?!”

“Well it’s not like we’re doing anything else silly, duh.”

Twilight started pacing, entering lecture mode. “Pinkie, this is serious! We don’t know where Spike is, how he’s doing, or anything else! And you’re-”

“I know, I know.”

Her hoof steps stopped. “What?”

“Well, this afternoon when I was jumping I saw boulders flying through the air, a torrent of flames, and about four specs flying through the air in what looked like a very impressive show of aerial feats. It looked like some kind of training; it was really fun and crazy to watch!”

The unicorn’s mind started processing the information, an important question still left unanswered. “Where? Where did you see them?”

“At the old Castle of the Alicorn Sisters. When I was bouncing above the trees just now I saw a big emerald bonfire looking thingy there. I bet they’re telling campfire stories and toasting marshmallows. We should tell stories and toast marshmallowy goodness! Can we, Twilight, can we?”

“Maybe tomorrow night when we’ve caught up with Spike.”

“Oh, they’ll totally taste better with Spike and our new friends; good thinking, Twi!”

There was a short pause. “How come you didn’t tell me any of this before?”

“You didn’t ask before.” Pinkie’s voice took a suddenly serious tone, an abnormality for the springy party mare, “He’s going to be okay, Twilight.”

She tried to fight back the tears. “How can you be sure?”

“I’m Pinkie Pie, silly; I know when my friends are in danger. Even Luna seemed sure that he was fine.” She pressed against Twilight, sharing her warmth to fend off the night’s cold from her friend.

“But Celestia’s… I’m not even sure. I can’t tell if she’s afraid or worried, or something completely different still. Celestia’s never been wrong before. If there’s one certainty, one truth my life is built on, it’s that Celestia always knows what’s best.”

“She’s anxious, Twilight. It’s been a long time since she’s seen her friend or her love, which is especially complicated. You might find this hard to believe, Twilight, but Celestia has made mistakes; she may be a sun goddess and a ruler but she’s still a pony at the core. No one is perfect not me, not you, and not her; we all make mistakes.”

Twilight hated to admit it, but she knew Pinkie was right, no matter how much she wanted to argue against her. “When did you get so smart?”

“I’m not smart; I’m Pinkie, uh duh.” Pinkie got up and bounded away. “I got to go cheer up Rarity. You’re the smart one, Twilight!”

“That mare is so random.” Still, she had provided Twilight with a lot of information and quite a bit of reassurance. It would be easier to sleep tonight, but right now she needed to do some calculations. If she assumed that they kept up the same pace as they had today, then they would reach the castle just before sundown tomorrow. That would have been good news on its own, but coupled with the emerald flames that could only belong to her number one assistant, she could be positive of his location at the castle. Of course, that did leave the matter of the, ‘training,’ Pinkie had described. Were they training Spike? He could not fly, so it seemed unlikely, but at the same time, everything she had learned since his capture insinuated that he was the one they were trying to prepare. It did not make any sense, no matter how she looked at it.

There was one thing Twilight knew though, as she looked over at the pink mare trying to comfort their fashionista friend. She could see it in those blue eyes, an icy rage that could rival a dragon’s own. Celestia have mercy on the souls of any who got in the way of the usually sophisticated mare and her own number one assistant, because Rarity would not. She could share what she learned and her hypothesis on distance, time, and Spike’s training tomorrow, right now there was a bed in Rarity’s ridiculous mansion-shaped tent calling her name.

As the sun rose over the horizon, a certain purple dragon could be seen doing pushups with a minotaur on his back.

“935. Switch to your right hand only.”

“I… hate… you.”

Spike’s entire body felt as if had been beaten, chewed on by timber wolves, and finally stampeded over by buffalos, but the results were unarguable. While his body had put on relatively small extra muscle, he had gained a much higher control of the new muscles that came with the transformation. He felt powerful, and the draconic blood flowing through his veins loved it. It was clear to him now why so many dragons felt superior to other races, but thanks to his pony upbringing he understood that such power was a gift that should be used for the betterment of all. It was after all, one of Celestia’s favorite sayings.

As he worked through the rest of his warm up, he focused on the information Wrath had provided him with last night. The battle-scarred stallion told him that his friends would be arriving by sundown most likely. He could not wait to show off his new body… especially to a certain white unicorn; although, he was afraid that the sudden change might scare them or that they might not recognize him at all. Such thoughts were hard to focus on as his body burned and screamed. Soon they would all be with him, and, above all else, it made him smile.

In the shadows watching his young disciple stood Wrath, blending to a point only his crimson eyes gave him away. “Hello, Pride, Lust. Something you wanted to share with me I assume?”

The golden pegasus and the changeling moved beside him. Pride looked at the dragon, judging every movement. “Why haven’t we started the most important part of his training?”

“If we must fight something we haven’t the slightest bit of useful information on would it not be better to make sure all of us are fully equipped?”

The earth pony never wavered from his target. “If Spike were to lose control as he is or as he was before we started even, how would we stop him? The answer’s simple: We wouldn’t; at least, not without seriously injuring him or even killing him. The young drake already has his trigger and he has discovered his control, but without both here starting his training with the kind of power he posses would be reckless.”

Lust turned and looked at the stallion. “Then why hinder the Elements’ movement? Would it not have been best to get them here immediately? Or to at least spirit away Generosity?”

“No.” Pride understood, it was a connection that Wrath and he had shared from their pasts before all of this. “He needs to know how to use his body, not just move it. The better his control, his understanding of himself, the more he’ll be able to draw out.”

“And while he learns, what of the rest of us? Trixie, Discord, and I are tapping into our reserve power to maintain this heightened training. Unlike them, I can’t just replenish my power with sleep and nutrients. So, unless you’re planning on having an orgy… which will be pretty weird considering at most we have two girls among us and all of you are straight.”

Even Wrath had to smirk at the somewhat crude comment. “I have a feeling you won’t have to worry about recharging for long. It’s not like you have to be the recipient to draw on the latent energy, after all.”

“Be careful Wrath, I of all creatures know that love and lust are not to be meddled with,” Lust started walking away in search of Trixie, “especially by one who has closed himself off and turned his heart cold and black such as you.”

Pride had to hold back a snicker at the underhanded slap. “You know, it really irks everyone when you act like you know things they don’t and you aren’t going to share? “

His eyebrow raised in mock surprise. “This, coming from you, really?”

“I’m in a unique position to judge; after all, who else would know better than a prideful bastard about secrets.”

The scene in front of him had changed to sparing, the two combatants trading blows back and forth, but none ever seeming to hit the minotaur. “I didn’t really think it needed to be shared. Celestia, Luna, and Discord haven’t seen each other in a long time. I guess when you had to guard the bedchambers back then it seems more obvious. Let alone if Trixie manages to get her hooves on Twilight Sparkle. Lust might be fed for a year from either one.”

Pride chuckled a little. “Ah, yes, well, that does make sense.” The air around them suddenly became very heavy and serious. “Even with this kind of insane training, he’ll never be up to the standard Powerhouse, you, or I have reached. There’s not enough time, let alone the fact he’s never seen combat… never killed.”

“We can only give him the tools, Pride. Maybe it’s for the best his life has been so soft. I can’t help but feel maybe there’s hope for the rest of you to know that kind of happiness if he can.”

“Have you seen my mansion? I assure you, I’m plenty happy. And what about you, don’t you deserve to be happy?”

Walking towards the drake, ready to spar, he looked over his shoulder. “Money doesn’t buy happiness. I’ll always be a necessary evil, but the rest of you don’t have to be. You’ve already moved off this blood covered path of mine, it’s time you all started considering trying to be happy again.”

Pride just shook his head as his fellow Sin walked away. “Old fool.”

The sun worked its way across the horizon just as the ponies below dredged their way through the forest and the dragon sharpened his skills among his elders’ ever watchful eyes as a purple hue overtook the sky.

The dare devil flight pony that was Rainbow Dash was getting very sick of not being able to fly as she battled her way through vines that seemed to have overgrown the path since their last visit. “Are we there yet? We’ve been at this for almost two days! I just want to fly again! To feel the wind through my feathers and the sun on my back, is that so much to ask for?”

Standing safely behind her and the range of the thrown foliage, Applejack rolled her eyes. “Relax, Sugarcube, ain’t gonna lose your wings if you don’t fly for a couple days.”

“How would you know?”

“Ain’t never bothered Shy. Right, Shy?”

Before Fluttershy could chime in meekly, Twilight spoke up. “Girls, calm down. If my calculations are right and the sun is where it’s supposed to be, then the castle should be,” her horn lit up in a magenta aura as did all of the vines blocking the path in front of them like a wall, before moving aside like some sort of living gate revealing their destination, “right here.”

At the same time, a giant speaker appeared above Discord’s head and meowed in the cutest and quietest alarms ever. “Oh, guests. Everybody, we’re on!”

As the Elements of Harmony walked up to the castle door an eerie silence seemed to overtake everything. They had expected anything and everything from an ambush to a giant pie catapult, but instead the place simply looked abandoned. Celestia and Luna’s horns lit up opening the castle door. Each stepped in carefully, ready to spring, except for Pinkie Pie who was bouncing along happily.

Suddenly, the light sprang on, confetti flew from cannons, and a giant banner in the middle of the completely restored grand hall read, “Welcome Home, Sunbutt and Lulu!” causing all of them to jump in surprise and, in Pinkie’s case, happiness at what appeared to be a party. Appearing out of a giant pink puff of smoke was Discord in a party hat with a blowout that sounded less like a whistle and more like a round of applause. “Draconequus Prince of Chaos, at your service, so to speak.”

“Discord!” Celestia’s eyes were like lasers aimed at his very soul. “What have-”

Before getting the chance to finish, Luna jumped at the prankster, pinning him to the ground. “Is it really you? Are you back, Seeker?” Tears slowly slid down her cheeks.

“Hi, Lulu. It’s complicated, but I’m okay now, promise.” His lungs hurt as the air was hugged out of him by the elated mare. “One thing though, it’s Discord now.” And just like that, the hug was over and Luna had jumped back.

“No. No! You’re Seeker, not Discord. You have to be.”

Something that looked like true emotional pain seemed to take the creature of chaos’ features as he looked away from the two Alicorns who had loved him, saved him, and condemned him. “I’m not Seeker anymore, and I’ll never be him again. Even if I wanted to, I could never get my original parts back, they have long since passed and even if they hadn’t… This is who I am now. I did those horrible things so long ago, and I’ll bear the name I took as a constant reminder.” His head turned and power emanated from his body. “I AM DiScoRd! God of Chaos! Sin of Gluttony! Now, would anyone like some chocolate milk? No. Well, you’ll have to excuse me if I have a glass, yelling like that is hard on the throat.”

From out of the shades behind him walked a familiar cloaked figure. “You and your dramatics.”

“Says the pony who-”

Twilight and Rarity stepped in front of their friends focused intently on the stallion. “Where is he!?!” They gave each other a quick glance before their horns lit up, ready to strike.

“I don’t think we’ve been formally introduced, well not all of us at least.” He took his cloak in his mouth and pulled it off in one flourish, leaving the mares to gawk at the scarred kidnapper and his demonic eyes. “Name’s Wrath. As I’m sure you’re aware, I’m the one who’s set this little get-together up. As for the young drake, he’ll be down momentarily I’m sure. He said something about her being appalled if she saw him all sweaty and dirty from training.”

Fluttershy’s nurturing instinct seemed to take over as she saw the wounds carried by the stallion. Only her common sense and fear held her back from inspecting them closer to see if anything could be done. “Do they hurt?” She covered her mouth with her hoof as she realized the words had somehow come from her.

He smiled softly at the mare, or as softly as one so battle-worn could. “Sometimes. It’s for the best though, reminds me of my failures, and pain is a small price to pay for that.”

This time Celestia spoke up, “It’s been a long time, Wrath. I’ve heard about what you’ve done.”

“What you wouldn’t.”

“You do not get to play judge, jury, and executioner! None of us do!”

“And yet, I have for over a thousand years. You do not get to lecture me! Safe in that castle, protected by guards, as monsters calling themselves ponies, dragons, minotaurs, griffons, and everything in-between roamed the land hurting, even slaughtering innocents.”

An accusatory hoof pointed directly at him. “And what makes you different? Tell me, Wrath!”

“Nothing. I accept that mantle happily to save their next victims, to avenge all those I couldn’t. You’ve done a lot of good Celestia, but not even a goddess can destroy the evil in a heart, not without taking away free will.”

Luna placed her hoof in front of Celestia’s mouth. “I think we can all agree this is not the time or place for this. It is nice to see you after so long, Wrath. I have missed my friend greatly.”

“It’s nice to see you as well Luna… and Celestia.”

Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, Celestia regained control of her emotions, a trick often used when dealing with aggravating nobles. “It is nice to see you, even under these circumstances. The four of us again in one room, hard to believe as it may be. But we aren’t alone, are we? And I don’t mean the girls. Where are the rest of the Sins?”

“You could look behind you,” a voice called out. Every head snapped in the direction it came from, finding a minotaur lazily leaning up against the wall next to the door they had entered. “I’m a little disappointed the pink one was the only one of you who noticed me coming in. True, I barely breathe or move in anyway, but still.” He moved across the room, passing right by the Elements of Harmony and took his place among his own as if it were nothing special. “Name’s Power House, Sin of Sloth and lover of sunny days and shade.”

Applejack spoke honestly and from the heart, “Ain’t ya a little muscular to be Sloth?”

“I get that a lot. Minotaurs grow up being trained for physical labor. Of course, when your Sin gives you the power of perfect efficiency, each good meal, each push up, goes a long way.”

“Enough about him, it’s time you met a real Sin.” Free falling from above, Pride hit the ground like a feather striking his signature heroic pose.

Pinkie broke into a small fit of laughter at the display, physically crippling the pegasus's stance.

Celestia on the other hand appeared quite downtrodden. “I had hoped that I was wrong about it being you, that you had perished, Tru-”

Dash sprang forward like a bullet. “That’s True Shoot! The first leader of the Wonderbolts, but… you… you disappeared during the Gryphon-Pony skirmishes hundreds of years ago. There’s statues in Cloudsdale in your honor. Everyone at flight school learns about the original Wonderbolts and their heroism.”

“I’m sorry, Rainbow Dash, but you must be mistaken, I know this stallion.” Rarity was positive of her identification. “His name is Golden Touch. He happens to be the richest pony in the kingdom; we met at one of Fancy Pants’ parties. It was quite the honor, since he’s rather well known for being an incredibly reclusive pony.”

“Ah, Miss. Rarity, it is nice to see you again.” He smirked, as his ears perked up at the sound of claws on marble. “You see, you are both right and wrong. I have long since abandoned the name True Shoot.” His voice came out sour and full of spite. “That name should not be worshipped; it should be cursed. That heroism on my part was nothing but a lie,”

Dash was genuinely confused. “What do you mean?”

“Wrath, do you mind?” A nod from the black stallion told him to continue his story. “I’m sure you know the legend. How I led my team of the greatest flight masters in Equestria into battle against unbelievable odds. How our sacrifice and bravery stirred the gryphons into agreeing to a truce and allegiance that has held for generations. The whole thing is a lie.”

Twilight, Dash, Fluttershy, and Celestia seemed shocked, but the other four were more confused, unaware of the tale.

“The real story involves a foolish prideful idiot of a leader whose subordinates had put their lives in his hooves. We were losing the skirmishes by sheer number and left with little other choice than to attack and run. During one of those assaults, we gained intel on a massive strike against Equestria. Hundreds would be flocking through our border to invade Equestria… we were twelve. And of those twelve, one had been seriously injured during that very mission, leaving us only eleven able bodied Wonderbolts.

I ordered Sleek Wind to gallop as fast as he could, his right wing broken and useless at his side, to the Castle to get reinforcements. My team was made up of the most elite and well trained military fliers Equestria had to offer. And it would have taken any one of them, an hour or two by air, on hoof it would take four to five days. We had six hours until the attack, but I wasn’t about to let some weak gryphon fliers pass my line. We could have had our own air force there in time to repel the attack, but I just wouldn’t admit we were outgunned.” Everything from his voice to his body displayed how he felt about the story. There was sorrow, resentment, and regret as his shoulders sagged and his boisterous nature all but disappeared, but, above all, there was an unwavering importance in every word. It was a story he would always remember, always be haunted by.

His eyes closed as the memories replayed in his head. “I led those ten true heroes to their deaths because of my pride. I watched as they fell, one after another around me… and I snapped. Feathers flew from my wings, striking my enemies dozens at a time. Each one I hit suddenly became overcome by pride and turned on his fellow gryphon, tearing them to shreds over imaginary insults or a need to be strongest or any number of other things. They began massacring each other. Those who retreated and were lucky enough to escape ran back and told the story of the demonic pony whose feathers could make the closest of friends slit each other’s throat. The king and queen feared their subjects turning on them and struck up a truce within less than a day. As for me, I was going to run every one of them down, but that’s when Wrath and Power House appeared. They basically beat me back to sense, reminding me of my allies and why I fought, the honor that I had seeked, and how I betrayed it.” To some it felt as if something had been omitted from the tale, but no one said anything.

“After that, we traveled around a bit. I… gained an appreciation for what Wrath did and does. I took on the name of Pride, and eventually Power House left our little group and I followed shortly after. At that point I moved to Canterlot and started amassing a fortune.” He smiled a little, obviously quite happy with his financial prowess. “When you have all the time in the world, it becomes very easy to learn to predict and control commerce to make quite a bit of coin. Of course, I created a fake identity for myself, never appeared before the Princess, and as time moved on I would ‘die’ and my ‘son’ would take over. Essentially, I created an entire family lineage of wealth and power that was only ever one pony. Time allowed me to garner my resources, to learn business, and to live my never-ending life in luxury. As far as anyone here need be concerned, I am simply Pride.” Turning his head towards the darkness behind him he shouted out, “Hear that dragon, I’ve kept my word!”

A deep earthy voice and the smell of brimstone traveled through the air as a large shadow began moving, emerald slitted eyes visible, “I never doubted you for a second, Pride. Hey, Twi, I hope you haven’t let the library burn down without me for a few days.”

Twilight’s lip quivered as she looked up into those eyes. “Spike?”

Next to her, Rarity stood holding her breath.

A claw came out of the darkness, a rich shade of purple. The rest of the transformed dragon soon followed, along with a number of gasps. “In the flesh. So, what do you think of the new look?”

The shock was short lived for Rarity. Like a force of nature, pure anger powered her horn as Wrath found himself pinned to a column. His body inched further and further into the cracking stone. “WHAT DID YOU DO TO HIM!?!”

He looked into her now glowing eyes, seething with power and hatred. “Ah, magic powered by pure emotion, hard to resist. I was expecting this from the Element of Magic or one of the Princesses, color me impressed.”

“ANSWER ME!”

Spike charged at her. “Rarity, stop!” As soon as he reached her, he wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. “I’m okay, so just stop.” His claw ran down her back calmingly. “I’m right here.”

The magical aura around Wrath disappeared, allowing him to land on his hooves. Cracking his neck, he addressed the white mare, “We didn’t do anything the young drake didn’t agree to. He accepted his new form to better protect all of you. It wasn’t a pleasant experience for him, I assure you. You’re lucky to have someone who cares so much.”

A sudden dampness on his chest scales alerted Spike to the emotional roller coaster the mare he loved was currently riding. “Rarity-”

The sorrow in the beautiful voice was clear as her voice wavered, “Why do you always do this? You put yourself in danger, fighting diamond dogs to protect me, jumping of the Crystal Castle after the heart, allowing yourself to be kidnaped, and then you shrug it off like nothing happened. You just keeping putting yourself in danger to try and save everyone else. Why?”

He could not help but chuckle a little, earning him a sharp poke in the chest from her horn. “I guess hanging around the six of you just wore off on me. You’re my friends after all; what else could I possibly do.”

Nestling further into his chest, she basked in the heat of the dragon’s eternal flame. “Stupid dragon.”

“Well, I won’t deny that.”

“I just need a minute here… I smeared my makeup all over Spike’s chest.”

The remaining Elements shared a smile as Discord and Pride rolled their eyes. Twilight could not help but feel her own heart warm a little at her two friends starting to come together. “Of course, Rarity.”

Suddenly next to them, Pinkie appeared to be randomly teleporting around Spike. “I like your new look Spike, you’re all muscular and cool looking, not that your original shape wasn’t cool, but this is like rockin! Get it? Cause he’s a dragon. I crack myself up.” Pinkie started giggling uncontrollably.

Rainbow Dash was busy eyeing up Spike most obvious change. “I have to agree with Pinkie, you look awesome! I bet those wings of yours have quite a bit of kick to them. Later, me and you are racing dragon boy, and you too, ‘Pride’, can’t let a chance to race one of the greatest fliers Equestria has ever known escape. You should consider yourself lucky I’m giving you the honor.”

The golden stallion shook his head. “Maybe she should have been the Sin of Pride. Well, I’m happy to put a fledgling in her place.”

Suddenly in front of her friends, Pinkie gave them all a cold stare. “How are you all forgetting the most important thing about having Spike back?” Her limb seemed to stretch out unrealistically far as she pulled Spike and Rarity into the rest of the Elements. “Group hug!”

There were a series of, “You’re squeezing too tight,” and “I think you’re breaking my ribs,” from the mass of bodies.

A strange voice came from above, “Awe, how cute. Shame though, all that love and so little lust.” From one of the balconies above flew down a changeling with a red back plate. “I mean, just look at him. Here, let me help.” Pink flames suddenly encased her body, and from out of them came a perfect replica of Spike. “Muscles, beautiful wings, fierce teeth and claws to drive the mares crazy with a little bit of danger thrown in, how is it that this is the kind of, ‘jumping on him,’ you’re all doing?”

Fluttershy’s, Twilight’s, and, hidden in Spike’s chest, Rarity’s cheeks lit up a brilliant crimson, all for entirely different reasons. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and the two princesses were not as easily flustered though. Spike seemed downright bemused. “Enough, Lust.”

“What can I say,” the fire returned, leaving the changeling behind, “I enjoy a little teasing, in and out of the bedroom.”

In a flash of cyan light, a familiar silver maned mare appeared next to the other Sins. “The Great and Powerful Trixie, agrees. Lust is ruining a very touching moment between friends and comrades.”

Twilight’s mouth was stuck agape, she had yet to reach Envy’s chapter in the book. “Trixie? You’re Envy? I mean it makes sense I guess, but…”

Perking up almost immediately at the mention of her name from the favorite pony, Trixie smiled brightly and waved. “Hello, Twilight Sparkle. Trixie has been looking forward to seeing you again, let alone training you.”

“Training?” Twilight gulped as she imagined the horrors Trixie would put her though.

“Ah, there’s the lust, delicious.”

Clearing his throat to get everyone’s attention, Wrath spoke calmly, “As Trixie has been so kind as to share, yes, training. I think it’s time we discussed why we’re here.”

The Teachers and the Students

The concept of beauty sleep was very important to many mares, especially Rarity, and this had been one of the most enjoyable she had ever known. Dreams of a rugged, handsome dragon dancing with her, helping her in her shop, and laying around a fire together filled her night’s ventures into the dream realm with a strange warmth that enveloped her body that she had never found underneath her satin sheets and had made the night simply divine. However, just as her prince charming went to steal a kiss, it was all stolen from her. “Wake up. Come on. We’ve got work to do. Get up!”

In her life, Rarity had come to hate a few things, and with good reason. Discord had turned her against her own friends, she looked awful with green hair, and anything, be it dragon or pony, who dared to touch a scale on Spike’s head was in for a world of hurt. At the moment, her rage was focused on one gray stallion who she temporarily considered sealing his mouth shut with her magic. Of course, her attention was stolen before she had gotten the chance by the edge of purple wing next to her.

She looked beside her, discovering that she was indeed wrapped up in the wing of the same dragon who had cemented himself within her dream. A blush ran up her face as she realized that she was and had been cuddling against his side, the strange warmth explained. The memory of last night came back to her. The rest of the Sins except for Trixie and Spike had disappeared, Spike had started a fire and Twilight and Trixie had used their magic to close the windows and insulate the hall to keep the heat in and the cold out, Luna had gone after Discord shortly afterwards, Celestia had warned her against such actions, but Luna would have no part of it as she walked off smiling after her lost love, Trixie had somehow enamored Twilight with stories of strange and curious magic she had seen throughout her years, the rest of the girls and Trixie had fallen asleep in something of a pile, Celestia and Spike remained awake, sentries to the night, and, finally, Rarity too tired to care or mustering unknown courage had gotten up on tired legs and made her way to Spike’s side, Celestia pretended to not notice as Spike extended his wing over her, she leaned against his side and said, “Don’t you ever leave me like that again.”

And now, here she was awake, with all of her friends rising about to see her wrapped in Spike’s wing. Oh well. She snuggled further into him, basking in the warmth before she had to get up.

Wrath’s focus fell on the dragon as he watched five of the six mares wake up groggily, Celestia and Applejack long since used to morning wake up calls. “Why didn’t you have them up and ready? You know we don’t have much time and every second counts.”

Looking over his friends and the love of his life basking in his side, Spike smiled. “They’re not soldiers. They’ve had a rough few days, and I won’t apologize for letting them have any sleep they can get now.”

He almost chuckled, the young drake may have accumulated more of a spine then he thought. “If we’re lucky they’ll never have to be soldiers, but our time is limited. There is still much for them and you to learn. Give them time to wake, but I expect you to meet us outside shortly,” with that, the earth pony walked away.

A southern accent broke the short lived silence, “Are you sure we can trust him?”

Though the question was directed at Spike, Trixie was the one who answered, “Wrath doesn’t care if you trust him. Odds are he’d tell you not to trust him. It doesn’t matter though, he trusts in you, in us. Wrath has saved innumerable lives, but he’s taken plenty too and his scars are deeper than what you see. He’s lived so much of his life fueling his rage, avenging some of the worst things you could ever imagine, and chasing this quest. When this is over, he’ll have no more Sins to find, no world that needs him to save it. He’ll just have all that anger and regret over what he couldn’t do, I suspect. He hides it well, but each life he’s allowed to be lost and each one he’s taken weighs on his soul.” She glanced over at Spike, “Even your mother’s and yet he did everything he could for her. Pride has a book, next to his pool, with a drink waiting for him, Power House runs a farm the size of Sweet Apple Acres by himself, Lust is happy to go around sleeping with anything that catches her fancy, Discord I suspect is hoping to earn back your affection, Princess, in the coming conflict,” Trixie looked quickly over at Twilight, “Trixie has her own hopes for life after all of this, and you, Spike, have a life in Ponyville full of people who love you, but Wrath… Wrath just has the next fight.”

The tears were ready to escape Fluttershy’s eyes any moment. “That’s so sad.”

“As long as he has something to fight for, he has purpose, but Trixie has suspected for some time that he’d prefer a world where he didn’t have one. This is just another step in that direction, to that world he wants.” Trixie stood up, following his path. “Trixie has a spell to prepare. Don’t keep us waiting too long, lots to do today.”

Twilight lit up her horn, using her magic to fix the wild hair going in every direction into her simple, manageable, and practical style that worked so well for her. “This whole thing is becoming a little… bizarre. Ancient evil, others as powerful as Discord, and the nine of us, Luna included in the middle of it.”

“I don’t know,” Applejack had been up and ready for some time and watched the morning routines of her friends, “seems pretty normal, for us.”

“Well… yes, I suppose so. Still, not sure how I feel about these Sins. Wrath and Discord are not just dangerous, they’re killers. The rest might be too. How do we trust or work with someone like that?”

Yellow wings were working on Fluttershy’s pink hair, straightening her messy mane and tail into a cascade of pink. “You said the Sins weren’t bad, they just did bad things. If we need them to save Equestria and the world, what other choice do we have? Plus, Wrath doesn’t seem so mean, just hurt. I think we should trust them,” realizing all eyes were on her, she blushed and hid behind her mane, “if that’s okay with you girls, and Spike.”

“Personally,” Rainbow Dash shook her head, creating her messy signature look, “I wouldn’t pass up the chance to work with one of the original Wonderbolts for anything. I’m staying, who knows what kind of things I can learn… What if I show him a few things? What if he’s so impressed he comes out of hiding and demands the Wonderbolts make me a member right then and there?”

Pinkie’s hair was naturally puffy, just how she loved it, no matter what, as if some kind of magic that was fueled by sugar and smiles kept it that way. “Dashie, that’s crazy. The Wonderbolts are touring on the other side of Equestria, even going down into Saddle Arabia for a three weeks, you’d have to at least wait until they got back before he could do that.” The looks of confusion were lost entirely on her. “Anywho, I think we should totally give them a chance I mean, we could make six new friends, and in Discords case we could take an enemy and make them into a friend, a frinemy! Won’t that be cool, and he can make it rain chocolate milk and we can have cotton candy clouds without the more evil chaos! LETS GET THIS PARTY STARTED!”

Twilight tried to fight the urge to facehoof, but as was often the case when it came to Pinkie Pie, she just could not do it. The familiar feel of her hoof on her muzzle was almost calming. “Well, we know Pinkie’s vote. What about you Rarity?”

“How am I supposed to get ready without all the proper brushes? I can’t comb my mane and tail a hundred times.” Rarity’s magic had long since changed her hair from the chaos of last night’s cuddling against Spike’s side. “What if I get split ends!?!”

“Rarity, Sins, quest to save Equestria, ringing any bells?” There was no denying the need to facehoof for Twilight.

“You’re on the fence, Applejack thinks it’s the same old same old, Fluttershy feels bad for Wrath, Dash wants to show off, and Pinkie is hoping for candy flavored weather. Darling, never assume I can’t worry about my coiffure and listen to my friends and everyone else. Details are my specialty. Spike, what do you think?”

The drake was stretching his body, loosening up for whatever the day had planned. “I think your mane and tail look perfect.”

Rarity’s smile could not be hidden if she tried. “Why thank you, Spikey-Wikey, but I meant about working with the Sins.”

“They’ve taught me a lot, showed me a lot,” he looked over his new body, “and given me a chance to do more than I’ve ever been able to. Discord, Power House, Wrath, Lust, Trixie, and Pride they’re doing what they feel is right, I just know it.”

“Well, thank you, Spike. That’s all I need to hear. If Spike believes in them, then so do I.” With one final glance at her mane and tail, Rarity started for the door, Spike right behind her.

Shrugging, Applejack tossed her Stetson onto her head and addressed the rest of them, “No two ways about it, for right now we need their help. We’ll just have to keep an eye on them… While Rarity keeps her eye on Spike.”

“I heard that!” came from down the hall.

“Good! Make sure his growth don’t have any funny side-effects!”

“Oh, right! Will do!”

Soon as Applejack heard the door shut she smirked, “That was not at all what I meant. She’s worse than Apple Bloom with a sundae right now. Can almost see the drool.”

Twilight noticed Pinkie and Rainbow Dash stifling laughs and rolled her eyes. “Applejack’s right. We have to work with them for now, but we’ll keep our eyes on them and make sure they’re not up to something, agreed?”

A series of yeah’s and mhm’s filled the air as the mares nodded their head in agreement, all except Celestia who sat in back watching her protégé work. Applejack led the way with Twilight and Celestia trailing behind.

The Princess of the Sun lowered her head to Twilight’s, making sure only her student could hear. “Listening to your friends’ opinions and thoughts was very wise Twilight. You’re becoming quite the capable leader, my little pony.”

A small blush made itself known on Twilight’s face. “Thanks Princess… but I still don’t know if I’m making the right move. What if I’m just putting everyone in more danger?”

“Leaders must face that fear constantly, but we must trust in our decisions and in our friends, as they must trust in us.”

Twilight smiled up at her teacher. “Thank you, Princess.”

“You’re welcome, Twilight.”

All of the Sins and Luna had long since gathered outside: Power House was napping while leaning against a tree, Pride was checking over his wings to make sure every feather was perfect, Lust was flipping through faces of the Elements, Sins, and even random ponies, dragons, or minotaurs seemingly unable to decide who to be today before giving up and ending on herself, Discord and Luna were swinging in a hammock talking and trying to catch up on lost time, Trixie had just put the finishing touches on a very impressive and intricate magical rune, Wrath was sitting watching the door for the rest to emerge, and Spike had taken up a spot near Wrath where he seemed to be showing off his new form to Rarity and allowing her to inspect and ask questions ranging from how having wings felt to how sensitive his new scales were. It was with much delight, though some keeping it in better than others, that the rest of the Elements of Harmony stepped through the door to join them.

“You’ll have to excuse me,” Wrath started, “but as we are low on time and already late to start I’m cutting right to the chase. I’ll be pairing each of you up with at least one of us to start training you on how to truly use and activate your powers as the Elements of Harmony. Twilight, you’ll be with Trixie.” Trixie’s happiness could almost be felt, as could Twilight’s dread. “Power House will be training Applejack.” The two farmers seemed quite content, as if they’re shared profession already formed some form of mutual respect. “Pinkie Pie, you’re with Pride and Rainbow Dash you’ll be learning from Lust.”

If Wrath had blinked he would have missed it as the blue Pegasus launched herself at him, stopping right before his face. “What?!? How can you not be pairing me up with Pride? He’s the first Wonderbolt, how could I not learn more from him?”

The earth pony did not even flinch from the impressive speed of the daredevil or her clear agitation. “Do you need to learn how to fly?”

“Of course not. I’m the greatest flier in all of Equestria, maybe even the world!”

“Then why should I care that he was a Wonderbolt? You’re here, no, we’re all here to teach all of you to use your powers. Lust can do that best for you, as Pride can do that best with Pinkie. Now please remove yourself from my face so I can finish.”

Rainbow Dash growled as she returned to her friends. “Jerk.”

“Trust me,” Pride’s eyes were trying to follow the bouncing ball of pink fluff that seemed to disappear and reappear all around him singing ‘partners’ and ‘new friend’ to the best of his ability, “I’m not exactly thrilled with this particular development either.”

Lust on the other hand was waving a hoof at Rainbow Dash as she began to form into an exact copy of the flier. “Admit it, you’d do me.”

Rainbow Dash was not amused.

Clearing his throat to get everyone’s attention back on himself before Rainbow Dash attempted to tear Lust apart, he finished his list, “I’ll be training Fluttershy in proximity to Celestia and Luna who, needing no more practice with their special abilities, will be joining Discord in training both Spike and Rarity together. I’m not sure if he’s mentioned it, but Spike has yet to even begin mastering his power as the Sin of Greed, as we felt it would be better to have the one who calmed him during his fall here before we started. Fluttershy and I will be nearby in case further help is necessary.”

The need to faint overcame Fluttershy as she looked timidly at the scared pony before her. It was not that she saw him as a particularly bad or evil pony, but being alone with him, she was sure, would make any of her friends or Celestia uncomfortable. Still, though her legs shook, she held her ground as the black pony looked at her.

Discord and Luna shared a big smile although Celestia was clearly annoyed with the somewhat predictable turn of events. She was at least happy to see Rarity and Spike sharing a smile as they were partnered with one another. Discord allowed little time for any of them to dwell on their thoughts though as he teleported the seven of them deep into the Everfree.

Power House began walking into the woods himself, and Applejack needed no instruction to follow behind him. After all, being behind him just made it easier to watch what he was doing.

Lust took off into the castle, a still moping Rainbow Dash walking behind her.

Pride was happy that his choice of training ground was the castle’s exterior as he felt that any form of a walk would prompt tons of nonsensical conversation and comments from the pink terror buzzing around him.

Twilight and Trixie were the last to leave. The two mares walked to the magical rune. As she saw the patterns and symbols etched on the rock, Twilight could not help but to walk around and inspect every detail, adding every minute bits and pieces to memory whilst searching her mind for any similarities to her previous studies. The only part that she really recognized was that the rune’s purpose was to distort time and space in large quantities. Some form of long range teleportation, perhaps. When she had done all she could, she stepped into the circle beside Trixie. “So, where are we going?”

Light blue aura poured from Trixie’s horn into the rune causing the arcane symbols and letters to light up the same way. Immediately, their bodies seemed to begin fading from reality as the electrical discharge from the spell’s power filled the air outside the rune, making both their manes and tails stand up. “Not where, my dear Twilight, when,” and they were gone in a flash of light.