Gordon sat with Twilight in the library later in the afternoon. She showed him some books that she’s read before, other books she has both read and reread, and other books she was reading. “This book looks really interesting, Twilight. I didn’t know you guys had a thing for technology.” he said, skimming through a particular book.

“I know right?! Princess Celestia even taught me this subject back at the school of Gifted Unicorns!” Twilight said.

“I thought technology didn’t exist here in Equestria. Don’t you ponies teach about magic in your schools?” asked Gordon.

“Well, yes, but we also share other topics such as math, science, and history besides magic. Miss Cheerilee can attest to that.” Twilight replied. She put one of her books back on the shelf.

“Hmm, interesting. So...” Gordon sat back down on a chair Twilight provided for him. “I was just wondering earlier if you don’t mind. (Clears throat) Have you ever...felt that Batman was like a...close friend to you. I noticed how you miss him so much. After he left Equestria, as you claimed, how did that make you feel?” Gordon asked.

Twilight lowered her head in sadness before setting her books aside and sitting back down. “(Sigh) It felt as if my life was being...torn apart. I mean...now that I’m the new princess of Equestria with no clear idea as to my unique purpose, it is now even harder for me to bear.” Twilight explained. “Batman was like the true protector of Equestria to all of us...to me. I can’t imagine our home enduring its fiercest enemies without him.”

Gordon slowly nodded to process what she shared. “I feel your pain, Twilight. I nearly felt the same way when Batman left Gotham for eight years after Harvey Dent’s demise. It just didn’t feel the same anymore...not for me at least. Although Gotham flourished in his absence due to the Dent Act, it only prepared itself to fall because of my lie.”

“Gotham needed a hero. It even needed one more than ever when a new evil rose up against us and threatened the very foundation which we stood.” Gordon continued. “When we all thought we were doomed, Batman returned at the right time to save us.”

Twilight smiled at the thought of what they went through. “I’m so happy to hear that, Gordon. By the way, who was it that stood against you guys? Another villain in Gotham?” Twilight asked.

“His name was Bane, a body-built terrorist. I don’t know much about him, but I know that he was a whole new level when we faced him. Arguably, he was the only villain who really came close to destroying Gotham.” Gordon recalled.

“Bane?” Twilight repeated. “Wait...that word means ‘something that causes annoyance, distress, or death’! It’s no wonder he is called that! What was he like?”

“He was like other rogues we faced before; however, he had that deep hatred, that fervent zeal in executing his plans to fruition. To be honest, I’ve never met a criminal with that amount of zeal before.” said Gordon.

“Wow...I can’t even imagine of what he would do to Equestria if he were here. But Batman was able to defeat him and his plans, right?” Twilight asked.

“Of course. No matter what comes in our path, the Dark Knight is always prepared for those challenging situations. Therefore, I can tell you right now that what you’re going through is the same no-Batman period like how my city had endured for eight years. Do not beat yourself down just because he isn’t here at this time. From what I’ve learned, Batman can be anyone...even an alicorn princess who is well able to discover her uniqueness as a princess and to help those in need. Have faith, Twilight.” Gordon encouraged, lifting her chin up.

Twilight teared up at the passionate encouragement he gave. She gratefully hugged him and nuzzled his chest. “Thank you...so much, Gordon. I needed to hear that today. I’ll never forget it.” she thanked.

“Anytime, my friend.” Gordon smiled. After they broke the hug, he got up from his seat and turned to the door. “Well, I must be on my way back home. I can’t be late for my police duties.”

“No rest for the weary, I guess?” Twilight giggled.

“Exactly. I’ll see you and your friends again, Twilight.” Gordon waved.

“Thanks for stopping by!” Twilight waved back. Gordon nodded and left the library. Then she lowered her head and thought on what he had shared moments ago. “(Sigh) Please come back, Bruce...Batman.” Twilight whispered.

IN FLORENCE, ITALY

“This airport really is busy today, huh? Heh, I wonder if it is starting to be like Gotham.” Bruce joked.

“Most airports never really rest...just as how you don’t, Bruce.” Selina remarked, smirking.

“Hey, that is just a part of my personality. My father barely rested when he had to work his butt off to build that train station years ago for Gotham. Isn’t it admirable to get things done during the day?” Bruce said.

“Well, as long as one doesn’t deprive himself of rest and energy. Hmmm, now does that not remind us of someone we know?” Selina replied. Bruce chuckled at that.

“I see what you did there. At least the Dark Knight won’t bother himself to save or help anyone now that his work is eternally done. He is born again to start a new life with his beautiful wife...together.” Bruce said before they kissed. The announcement was given that signaled their turn in lining up for their airplane.

“Come on, let’s go.” Bruce said, breaking from the kiss. They grabbed their luggages and tickets as they headed to the gate which led to their plane.

AT THE EVERFREE FOREST

The Tree of Harmony began to weaken as it was beginning to lose other Elements. The remaining Elements began to lose their color since the Element of Kindness commenced their breakdown. After several moments, a dark presence revealed itself before the weakening tree.

“Ahhhh, yes. Just as expected...with one Element gone, the others will fall with it...the domino effect is always effective.” The Lurking Phantom smiled wickedly.

Author's Note

The real fun begins next chapter. Bane and Tirek will have plenty of things to work on. 😈