The Impossible Choice

by FireMaster

Chapters

Chapter 1: Day By Day
Chapter 2: Consequences
Chapter 3: Some Sense Please?
Chapter 5: No More Puns
Chapter 6: Surprises
Chapter 7: New in Town
Chapter 8: In the Shadows
Chapter 9: The Skies the Limit
Chapter 10: That's a lot of damage
Chapter 11: Unlocking Potential?
Chapter 12: Questions
Chapter 13: Seeping Darkness
Chapter 15: The First Choice
Chapter 16: Escalation
Chapter 17: Awakening
Chapter 18: Truth of War
Chapter 19: Secrets Unveiled
Chapter 20: The Morning Will Come
Chapter 22: Realizing a Talent
Chapter 23: Harmony's Warning
Chapter 24: Counterplays
Chapter 25: All-or-Nothing
Chapter 26: Persistence
Chapter 27: Night of Broken Glass
Chapter 28: Jailbreak
Chapter 29: Perspectives
Chapter 30: Time Will Tell
Chapter 31: Swarm
Chapter 32: It Only Takes a Spark...
Chapter 33: ...To Start a Whole Blaze
Chapter 34: Harmony
Chapter 35: A Special Occasion
Epilogue
Chapter 4: Knowledge, Knowledge, and more Knowledge
Chapter 14: The Plans Have Left the Building
Chapter 21: Victories Cut Short

Chapter 1: Day By Day

Part I ~ Welcome to Equestria?

~ April 8th, 2020 ~

Beep...

Beep!

ahmph…

The 7am. alarm had come and gone, reaching its third snooze. Chase Waters was determined to win the battle against the alarm, but in the end was forced into wakefulness by the triumphant clock blaring its wake up call. Sighing in defeat Chase sat up preparing to start his day, which had become quite the boring routine as of late. With the recent events landing the world in a state of emergency, Chase was one of many students his age forced into online schooling. It wasn't exactly how he planned his senior year of college going, but being that he wasn't a social butterfly, Chase got by on his own.

For the last month, Chase had been stuck in a vicious cycle. Since he was quarantined in the state of Oregon due to the infectious virus labeled Covid-19, days went by with little to no indication what day it even was. Everything started blending together, making Chase feel like time itself had gotten bored of all the repetitiveness, and decided not to follow the traditional schedule.

Chase was in his final year of engineering at Oregon State University, and was only a few months from graduation when change blindsided his perfect schedule. So being the adaptable type, he began a new routine. Wake up, force his 5'9" frame out of bed (eventually), take a shower, run a comb through his mid-length brown hair, check emails, eat breakfast, brush his teeth, attend online meetings, grab lunch, go to more meetings, and take some personal time. His desire to control everything, and maintain high levels of organization was of the utmost importance. Days were meant to be scheduled to the minutes, yet he was stuck at home with way too much free time on his hands.

Chase didn't want to "go with the flow" as his parents put it, but he was forced into isolation that was even worse than his previously lacking social life. He grew up with a few friends here and there, hardly any strong bonds however. Being a mathematician and science nerd, he didn't even talk like others. His decisions, words, and actions all felt calculated like an equation. For the life of him he couldn't figure out why as hard as he tried he just didn't seem to fit in. Try as he might, the only friends he made were through his interest in the creative game of Minecraft. When he didn't play, Chase would watch the game on YouTube letting his imagination run wild. People marveled at what he was able to construct with his perfect angles, and grand arches.

The worst part of growing up however was watching his peers party and laugh, when he felt so distant from the foreign joy that appeared on others faces.

Regardless of his past, today was April 8th, probably just another day that would pass by forgotten for being dry and lonely. Chase lived alone in his apartment. He hadn't been living with anybody else since things went poorly with his freshman year roommate. Being an honors student, Chase was planning on using the day to conquer another few pages of his thesis. It was being written on the physics behind quantum theory in space, and how a zero G environment was impossible due to micro levels of gravity interacting between planetary objects. Even if incalculable by human standards, just because you can't feel the effects of gravity doesn't mean it doesn't exist on a minuscule level. After all, to get into space you have to use an object that has mass, which in itself creates a small gravitational hole in space time, allowing other objects to be affected by its presence. The trouble behind this research project was how theoretical and hard to test it was.

So after a bowl of cereal, and some morning coffee to kick start his senses, Chase was ready to begin writing. His computer doubled as his classroom and gaming station, so he would full screen his document to eliminate distractions. Chase's strong work ethic meant that his focus was unhindered for over 2 hours. He couldn't even remember the sound of his AC kicking on. The only thing that could pull him off his work was the prospect of lunch. 12:00 on the dot was lunch time, and today consisted of a BLT and homemade french fries. If you have bacon, he won't be far behind.
Cooking was a great pass time for Chase, especially since he could eat the fruits of his labor. Lunch right at noon and dinner at 6:00pm was the goal. Somehow, he was able to eat at exactly the same time every day, his stomach always seeming to remind him when it was ready. Might as well be a portable clock in his gut.

Following a satisfying meal, he went for a run. Yes, he may be one of those 'guys' who liked school and running, but he certainly knew how to stay healthy, so you can't argue with his methods. A 6 mile run around the apartment vicinity, and he was feeling good. Very few people were out and about, but a few individuals could be seen sitting on their porch. He gave everyone a wide berth, keeping his distance like quarantine regulations specified, but he wasn't too worried. He made sure to thank God for his health, and pray for continued protection. He was always looking for ways to strengthen his relationship with God, and continue to put his faith in God as his savior.

After settling down from a good workout, Chase went back to typing on his computer. His diligence would hopefully pay off by having his work completed ahead of schedule. However, he just couldn't seem to focus. Over by his night stand to his left, something kept flashing out of the corner of his eye. Chase tried to ignore it, but after a full minute of the continued distraction, Chase's eyes wandered from his screen. What he saw was something he never would have imagined. his alarm clock seemed to be emitting purple sparks. 'Wait can sparks even be purple' he thought?

"what's going on?!" he asked aloud to no one in particular.

Doing the only sensible thing that came to mind, Chase unplugged his clock only to find sparks were still flying. He picked up his clock and threw it... yeah probably not his smartest idea, but when it broke against the far wall, he figured the sparking would cease. With a smile he turned back around to get back to work only to find that a purple light was now glowing over his night stand brighter than the sparks were previously. In a last ditch effort to stop this insanity, Chase moved The whole thing out of the way, carefully avoiding touching the strange light.

He grabbed a blanket off of his bed and threw it over the top in an attempt to smother it, only for his blanket to completely disappear.

"What the actual heck is going on here! This is impossible!"

Just as he started to move towards his phone to try and call somebody (who he was going to call... he hadn't got that far yet) he felt the light pulsing and drawing him closer against his will. It was starting to function almost like a vacuum, yet the other objects in his room seem completely undisturbed! As a last-ditch effort, he closed his eyes, and imagined waking up from what must be a dream.

"This is just a nightmare."

"I'm about to wake up any second..."

Suddenly a bright flash shone throughout his entire room, and the whole world went dark. In the seconds that passed, Chase wondered why he felt cognizant of darkness if he was dreaming. Did he pass out; did he hit his head on something? All he could think in that moment was... ‘the chances of permanent insanity have just increased by a significant rate’

In a matter of seconds, the surroundings went from loud winds and bright flashes of light to dead silence, and all the while Chase felt like he was falling into nothingness.

"Am I dead?"

Author's Note

This is my second attempt at starting my first book ever after I lost my first save. Looking for feedback, and feel free to point out mistakes. I'm sure there are plenty. Also chapter lengths may not be consistent, but expect longer chapters in the future! Hope you enjoy!

Chapter 2: Consequences

~ April 8th 1020 ME (Modern Era) ~

"No, don't do it Starswirl! Come back! We only need a little more mana to cast..."

"WAKE UP TWILIGHT! we're going to be late!"

"Huh... Oh Spike you just ruined a magical dream." Twilight Sparkle said as she rolled over slightly annoyed with the baby dragon yelling from the hallway.

"Don't you remember what today is? The schedule has us leaving for the train station in 10 minutes!"

Suddenly Twilight burst from under her covers fully awake. "Late! I'm never late. Spike get the travel bags, I'll get the checklist." She said as she began levitating around books strewn about the library floor.

'I guess I didn't realize how late I was up studying last night' she thought. 'Although that spell was really something. I'll have to talk to Celestia about it after the foreign affairs meeting that I've been invited to.'

Celestia had felt as the latest alicorn princess, Twilight should get a taste of the political world, and what magic of negotiations looked like. Of course Twilight was well versed in all her studies including politics, but this was an opportunity for Twilight to get away for a while. It would seem like a vacation, even if it included official business, would be a good chance for Twilight to relax a little; after all she hadn't let up from magical research for 2 months straight. She had come so far studying friendship; there wasn't a friendship problem she or her friends couldn't handle. The cutie map did tend to push them in the right direction, but as fate would have it, it hadn't been very active as of late. That of course meant that there weren't as many large-scale friendship problems, but it did seem to make Twilight nervous that something big was coming.

All of this played through her head as she tied off her saddle bags and headed for the door, Spike in toe holding out a world famous Apple family apple to tide her over until they reached Canterlot. On the way Spike reviewed the checklist for the day making sure to double check with Twilight that nothing was missing.

"Meet up with the family for lunch.

Attend an ambassadorial meeting in the royal meeting hall number 3

Spend time with Celestia…" Spike listed off while Twilight carried him towards the train station.

"Oo Spike please add, mention studies on test spell #4 titled: Friend in Need."

"Sure thing Twilight, and last but not least get a doughnut for Spike at doughnut Joe's."

"Huh... I didn't put that on there? Oh... Well I'll think on that one Spike."

"Aww but you know how good those doughnuts are in my stomach. They'll help me grow big and strong."

"I said maybe, and you're tipping the scales against yourself."

"Oh fine."

"On a happy note, We made it to the train station just in time." Twilight announced in a chipper voice.

As they cantered over to the conductor, he looked up from his watch, and addressed them.

"Well hello Princess Twilight. Ten minutes early as always I see. Glad you could join us on the Friendship Express."

"Ah you know how it is. I always plan in a little cushion to stay on schedule. Also you know I've told you that you can call me Twilight. No need for the Princess business."

"As you wish Twilight." he said with a wink.

Twilight and Spike sat down at a nearby bench for a few minutes, reviewing their bags while they waited.

"You did bring the bag labeled 'Canterlot travel' right Spike?" Twilight queried.

"Of course! After all, I am your number one assistant!"

"Thanks Spike. You certainly are."

They sat in silence for another few minutes, enjoying the sunshine and birds singing their songs, while the citizens of Ponyville went about their morning business. Townsfolk were busy heading to jobs, and shopping at the market, while foals ran off to school to learn from Mrs. Cheerilee.

"ALL ABOARD!" The conductor called from the left signaling that boarding had begun, and the train would leave in five minutes.

Twilight and Spike moved towards the train car, while Twilight levitated two tickets to Canterlot out of her saddle bag and presented them to the conductor.

"Welcome in! We will be arriving in Canterlot about an hour after departure."

Twilight and Spike settled into the train car getting comfortable. Shortly after getting seated, the train lurched forward headed for the capital city. Just another day in Equestria it would seem, and there wouldn't be another place they'd rather be. There was no doubt: this was home.

After an hour flew by faster than the scenery outside the train window, Twilight and Spike were finally disembarking the train into the bustling streets of Canterlot. Rainbows of ponies went about their business as well as a few cows, griffins, and minotaur's here and there. Nothing Twilight hadn't seen before. Seeing the town of her past, Twilight was reminded of how far she had come since leaving Canterlot the first time. Obviously she had been back since, but the friends she made in Ponyville made the rich Canterlot atmosphere a little less exciting to say the least.

As they began trekking through the city toward the Sparkle residence, Spike began drooling looking at all the gem encrusted outfits of high society.

"I sure hope your parents have a few gems stocked. Maybe some Topaz... mmmm. Those ones taste like candy."

"You silly little dragon." Twilight said with a chuckle. "You know my parents, and they go overboard with everything."

"Ugh don't remind me. I have nightmares about suffocating from your moms hugs."

"heh. yeah..."

On that note they continued on in silence for a while. It was harder to enjoy the sounds of nature with the activity and busyness of the city but trotting along at a leisurely pace was pleasant. Most days Twilight's schedule was packed full of responsibilities, but the smaller list was a much-needed break. Not that Twilight would admit that out loud, but her smile said it all.

As they neared the door, Twilight and Spike began debating who was going to knock.

"You can do the honors Spike!"

"Oh no I insist! I'm sure your parents are just dying to see you!"

Unbeknownst to them as they discussed (not argued... definitely not arguing) who was going to have the honors of knocking, Twilight Velvet stepped through the door and was beside them in a matter of seconds.

"Oh my babies! Little Spikey Wikey is getting so big! My Twiley finally decided to visit as well! How wonderful". she said while squeezing them up in a group hug that could only be described as intense.

"Hey mom." They both echoed back.

After a hug lasting well past the stages of awkwardness, Night Light cleared his throat from the door.

"Honey, why don't you have them come in? I don't think lunch will be as pleasant from out in the middle of the street." he remarked while quietly laughing at his own joke, and his wife's antics.

"You're very right dear. Come on in you two! We've missed you so much!"

With that the family entered the house, and began catching up on what new things they had been busying themselves with over the last year.

"Thanks for lunch mom. It was great to catch up with you and dad. I hate to leave so soon but I have to attend a meeting with the Princess. Spike can stay here though. I'm sure you all would enjoy each other's company."

"Hey wait a minute... are you going by yourself?" Spike asked, hoping she would change her mind.

"I'm not sure what you would do during the meeting. It won't be all that exciting anyway."

"You can help me make some of your favorite cookies." Mrs. Sparkle commented.

"Actually Twilight, take all the time you need, I get it. Just don't have too much fun without me."

"Alright Spike I'll be back before dinner, and we can take the morning train home tomorrow. Sounds good?"

"Sure thing!"

"And don't eat too many cookies!" Twilight said over her shoulder as she headed out the door.

Smiling as she went on her way, Twilight was ready for whatever would be thrown at her in the upcoming meeting.

Twilight was definitely not ready for how bored out of her mind she felt sitting beside Celestia in the meeting hall. It seemed all the delegates wanted to do was complain, and it was a wonder how Celestia kept her composure while presenting compromises to rather small issues. The main topics of discussion were trade, border control, and maintaining peaceful relations, but occasionally there was mention of potential threats imposed by some of the less friendly species residing on Equus. Of course Equestria wasn't required to aid in foreign conflict, but Celestia was more than happy to offer some of the increasingly growing guard to appease the dignitaries.

Twilight really looked up to her mentor, and it seemed other nations had high regards for the Princess as well with just how much they addressed her. It was agreed upon that the next assembly would take place in the Yak kingdom, and finally after what felt like an eternity, the meeting seemed to be drawing to a close. 'Thank God there aren't more species, or this would never end' Twilight thought, while struggling not to slouch. She would have to compliment Celestia on how regal she held herself. Her public image was unmatched; no doubt from over a thousand years of practice.

After every member present gave a final address, mentioning anything else that hadn't been said to this point, the meeting was adjourned. Twilight was very relieved to have that behind her. As Twilight followed Celestia out of the hall with a pair of guards flanking either side, Celestia leaned over and whispered into Twilight's ear.

"You know I was beginning to think that meeting would last forever, I was getting rather tired."

"Princess Celestia? You were tired? you looked so dignified the whole time!"

"Just because I take ruling very seriously doesn't mean I enjoy every aspect of it. You have no idea how fed-up I was getting with all the complaining! Especially from the griffins, I don't think I could have taken another comment about how pegasi were invading their airspace last week."

"I suppose that makes sense. You're just so good at what you do!"

"Thank you for the compliment, but for now I need a break from thinking about royal responsibilities. You of all ponies should know that too much formality is draining on me. I'm just Celestia for the rest of the day since day court is canceled for the ambassadors meeting okay?"

"Alright Celestia!" Twilight replied just happy to get some time with her mentor. "So I've been meaning to tell you about my latest research project..."

"How about we discuss this over some tea hmm? Were almost to my chambers anyway." As they entered Celestia's room the guards took up a post by the door, and a maid who had just been on cleaning duty began making her exit. "Excuse me Chai, would you mind bringing Twilight and I some tea?"

"Of course your majesty! I will return momentarily with tea just how you like it!"

"Thank You. Now Twilight let me hear about this project of yours."

"Well as you know, Starswirl invented hundreds of the spells that we use today. Recently I've been inspired to construct my own spells which has led me to studying the manipulation of magical weaves. The thing is the fourth spell I've been working on uses a large supply of mana reserves. It's formulated through a double helix weave. I've tested small scale applications of it, but despite my magical affinity, I can't seem to power the entire spell for a full test. I've named it 'friend in need' because its capable of reaching through Equus and finding ponies that haven't felt the magic of friendship."

"Twilight..?"

"Unfortunately my small scale tests have only been able to reach the ponies in Ponyville, which isn't a large radius of application. Additionally I haven't had much success figuring out what to do once I pinpoint somepony with the spell."

"Your tea your majesty"

"Thank you. You are dismissed Chai"

"Now Twilight..."

Not to mention the fact that I'm still working on trying to create long range teleportation pads, a spell for stimulated healing, and... Hey!”

“I couldn't get your attention, so rather than raising my voice, I figured you would respond more to magic.”

"Well did you have to use a near blinding illumination spell." Twilight deadpanned.

"Well I suppose not..."

"Anyways sorry about that Celestia. It seems I've gotten ahead of myself. I've just been so invested in my work lately."

"I can see that, and I'm glad you're making leaps in bounds with magical study, but I only stopped you to further discuss that first spell. I know I tasked you with researching more about the magic of friendship, but is this a good idea?"

"Well I've taken all the necessary precautions in my research to ensure that the spell has no mishaps. I assure you it would do exactly as designed. I understand if you think its a bad-"

"-Well then let's try it"

"-idea... wait what?! Really?" Twilight said ecstatic with her mentor's interest in her work.

"Well you said it was safe. I'm very curious just how far you've come with magic, and the prospect of trying a new spell sounds adventurous! Although perhaps not in my room... No offense of course Twilight, but let's take our magic to the training grounds lest your spell doesn't work properly."

"Ok Princess... I mean Celestia. Lead the way!"

"So how exactly do you plan on making this test any different from my previous attempts Celestia?" Twilight asked once they reached the guards training field.

"Simple, I'll just use a spell to lend you some additional mana to finish off the spell."

"Ok. Do you think you could make a shield just in case?"

"I thought you said this was safe..."

"It is! It is... It just can't hurt to take some precautions. So are you still ready to do this?"

"I'm not backing down now." Celestia said with a wink. 'Did I just get peer pressured by a Princess?' Twilight thought as she began feeding mana into her horn to start the spell. The spell started out as a faint purple glow tracing 2 lines in what appeared as a map of the surrounding region. Twilight began pouring more magic into the spell now with the first stages complete. She could feel Celestia reach out to her, lending some strength. It truly was an odd sensation, but nonetheless she began tying the lines around each other in a braid. As it began to expand, nearby guards as well as Celestia, were beginning to worry. Twilight staying focused had her eyes closed to concentrate on the complicated matrix. The magic had begun ripping a hole in literal space that seemed to create a void. Once Twilight had finished lining the spell's unique weaves she glanced up at her work, only to see it didn't look quite like normal. Everything looked right except the hole in the center that was expanding. 'That's not supposed to happen.'

"That shield might not be a bad idea now" Twilight uttered rather nervously.

"What's going on Princess?" a unicorn from the royal guard asked rather worriedly.

"GUARDS ASSUME A PERIMETER. UNICORNS GET ME A SHIELD!" Celestia boomed, sending ponies quickly into action left and right. The energy that could be felt pulsing from this void felt unnatural. Not like anything Celestia, or anypony for that matter had ever felt in equestrian before.

Suddenly without so much as a moment's notice, the void collapsed in on itself creating a bright purple flash, and a dust cloud that completely filled the shielded bubble held by the guards. The spell was gone with no remnants from its existence, but the dust had yet to settle.

The shield continued to glow, and it seemed Twilight's spell had failed. Nothing like a little mishap spell to get your heart pumping. On a positive note Celestia at least got her guards to practice responding to a potential threat.

"Orders your majesty?" Came a question from General Silver Storm.

"Take down the shield, and stay at the ready." As the shield fell, the dust blew away in the spring breeze, and a collective gasp passed through the entire crowd of onlookers. To the surprise of everypony present, in the middle of where their shield spell had been lay a golden unicorn with streaks of navy blue, red, and black swirling through his mane. Several glances towards his flank provided the biggest surprise. A stallion with a distinct lack of a cutie mark. Oddly enough he was laying on a rather large orange blanket dirtied by the dust cloud. For a second no one spoke just wondering who this mystery stallion was. The silence was only broken by a groan coming from the unicorn.

"Umhnh… My head... everything hurts so much." He spoke rather quietly where hardly anypony could hear.

Celestia approached him from the front.

"Are you alright my little pony?" She asked

"What..." he groaned, as he slowly began to open his eyes and adjust to his surroundings.

"I asked if you are alright. Are you hurt?"

"Everything feels weird." he said finally looking for who was addressing him only to find a tall white horse with wings and a horn? If that wasn't enough to make his brain go haywire, seeing her mane floating with pinks, blues, and greens did. He let out a very unmanly scream, causing all nearby ponies to wince, but Celestia kept her position.

"Where in the world am I? What are you? and why in the name of all things holy is everything so colorful?!" He half yelled in a speed that would even impress Pinkie Pie.

"Simple," Twilight said, walking up and causing Chase's brain to nearly explode at seeing what he thought was a purple pony talking.

"You’re at Canterlot castle in Equestria, we are alicorns, and um... ponies have colorful manes like yours I guess?"

Already running on overdrive, Chase hardly had time to process the first two answers, and only after the third did he look down at himself to see two golden stumps laying on the ground where his arms should be. It was at that moment it all became too much. The world started spinning, and he passed out. The level of Chaos occurring would have been enough even to make Discord proud. When his head hit the ground led by his horn, everybody winced again. The collective thoughts from the guard were 'that's gonna be one heck of a headache!' Before anypony could rush to his aid, Twilight's cutie mark started blinking. 'Was this just a coincidence?'

"Um I think we should get him to a nurse" Twilight voiced, certain that was one of the weirdest encounters she had ever had. She couldn't help but continue questioning one thought as guards ponies began hoisting up the mystery stallion to get him help.

'Was this her fault?'

Author's Note

I've been writing this story rather fast, so just know that in the future these chapters will likely experience minor changes to fix mistakes, and include stronger details. Chapter 2 special, a day after chapter 1, so hope you enjoy!

Chapter 3: Some Sense Please?

Author's Note

Starting from this chapter on I'm going to be writing focusing mainly on the perspective of one character per chapter. This should simplify things, and add more emotion/ characterization to the story. Thanks, and enjoy chapter 3!

Chapter 3: Some Sense Please?

~ April 10th 1020 ME ~

Something felt off. Chase couldn't place it, but he just didn't feel like himself. What he could be certain of was the feeling like his head was going to explode. The throbbing from the front of his skull felt like he'd done more than just slept wrong. 'I don't know what happened last night, but I need to go see a doctor... and those dreams were beyond weird.' As Chase began regaining his senses the first thing he was aware of was his sense of feeling. Which in itself was giving his brain problems. 'Where's the wool blanket I always sleep with, and why are the sheets so silky?' Then came sounds. Foreign bird calls found their way into his room, but that wasn't the worst part. 'Did my ears just... Swivel?' Hold on, what time is it? His first attempts at sight came with a glance to where his bed stand should be only to find something foreign; red flags were blaring left and right. 'wait a second that's not mine, this bed is definitely not mine, and this room is most certainly not mine.'

The events of his 'dream' began rushing back to him, playing out rather quickly. 'wait... I remember falling, and then I crashed into something hard and dusty, and then...'

"Oh no..." It had all felt so real, and hurt immensely which is impossible unless... Chase stole a glance downward only to be met with a shiny golden coat and his arms... no that can't be right... hooves? No they were his hooves!

'This isn't real... It would take some form of genetic reformation, combined with structural repositioning of my bones and organs. There are so many impossibilities to it all.' Instead of even considering the possibility, Chase went right back to his former theory.

"Nope I'm dead."

"Oh I can assure you you’re not dead," came a soft feminine voice from over by the door. "You did hit your head pretty hard though."

When Chase looked over to the person addressing him, all he could do was stare mouth agape at the pony walking through the door pushing a food cart. Besides her unique coloration of a white coat and a pink mane, she had a red cross on her backside? Flank? It looked like a medical symbol, and reminded Chase of the Red Cross logo. Why she decided to put a tattoo on her backside, who knows? He definitely wasn’t brave enough to ask.

"How do you feel? You've been out for almost 2 days. Princess Twilight even took time out of her schedule to stay in Canterlot and check on you. You should feel lucky that you're in such good hooves."

"uhhhh, excuse me? Two days! Who are you? What does that even mean? Who's Princess Twilight?!"

"Woah so many questions! Calm down a little sir everything will be alright."

"CALM DOWN?! the chances of me being... whatever I am right now are about one in never, and also I don't even know where here is! I think I have about 100% right to ask questions!"

"Ummm let me see if I can go get someone who can answer your questions. Excuse me."

Maybe he shouldn't have yelled at this creature he had never met, but at this point he felt that he would have to show some strength if he was going to get some answers and maintain his sanity. While he waited for something to happen, he began rotating his legs. Weird. He had more range of motion than any horse he’d ever seen.

"I heard you were yelling at the kind mare that helped treat you while you were unconscious." the white alicorn he had encountered before pronounced, sounding rather displeased. Chase glanced up hoping her features didn’t match her tone, but she was rather stone-faced. “You gave her quite the scare. She doesn't often get yelled at by the patients she helps. Now can you please tell me what has distressed you calmly, so we don't have any trouble?"

At this point Chase hadn't even tried to leave the bed he was in yet, but even from across the room, the presence of this being made him nervous. He decided rather quickly never to make her mad, because her nature seemed a little... intimidating. She radiated power, and how he could feel that, he would never know. It would just have to be chalked up with all the other irregularities in the last few minutes.

"Can you... tell me what's going on?" Chase half whispered, feeling less anger and more worry with every passing minute. At that the alicorn’s expression seemed to soften just the slightest bit.

“I was unsure when you asked such strange questions in our first brief meeting, but now I’m certain you aren’t from around here. Let me explain. My name is Princess Celestia, and you are in the medical wing of my castle. Unfortunately we believe that a magical failure is responsible for bringing you here, and the spell responsible will likely never see the light of day again. Can you give me the honor of knowing who I’m talking to?”

“Mr. Waters, just call me Mr. Waters for now. I really want to believe you um Princess er I mean your majesty, but did you say magic? Sorry but that’s scientifically impossible, and I don’t think slight of hand tricks could have brought me into your presence.”

“Pardon me Mr. Waters, but I’ve never heard of a unicorn who thinks magic is simply misdirection. Have you never tried to use your horn?”

“I have a horn?! What next, am I going to grow wings!"

‘Oh dear this is worse than I thought.’ “Do you even know what Equestria is?“ Celestia asked with apparent concern in her voice.

“Is that supposed to be a type of horse cuisine? No, I don't know what Equestria is! All I know is that I was working on my senior project, peacefully I might add, when I was interrupted by some irregular purple light. Since then everything I’ve experienced is madness!”

“Mr. Waters, we will do everything in our power to get you home, but first I must know; where are you from?”

“Um... Oregon in the United States?”

“It’s just as I feared.” Celestia said under her breath.

“I have some disturbing news for you. You’ve traveled a little farther than I anticipated. You are on the planet Equus, and it may take us a little longer than I thought to get you back home.” ‘Hopefully we can.’ She was not willing to say the last part aloud because the last thing this poor pony needed to hear is that it might be out of their ability.

“Princess I don’t think you quite understand where I’m coming from... I’m not just far from home in a foreign land.... I’m literally living in an unfamiliar body right now!”

“How is that possible? Twilight’s spell was even more complex than I thought!”

“You're asking me? Just today I’ve been told that magic is somehow real, and you're asking me how a spell was strong enough to change my species!”

“Slowdown Mr. Waters, from what I’m picking up, your world shares hardly any similarities with ours. Let me get this straight. A world without magic?" Even after a thousand years there’s still so much I don’t know.

“Your majesty, I don’t even know what to believe as truth right now, but it’s taking every bit of my willpower to keep my composure. I still have thousands of questions as I’m sure you do as well, but can I have some time... alone. I have a lot to process.”

“If that is your wish then so be it. I have afternoon meetings to attend to, and quite a busy schedule, but Mrs. Red Cross will be in to check on you. She’s the nurse from earlier, so please refrain from yelling at her. If you must send for me then I will do my best to come and help however I can. I believe Twilight would like to visit with you as well. She will no doubt be full of questions, so just tell her if she’s overwhelming you. She really does have the best intentions. It was a pleasure meeting you Mr. Waters.”

“Yeah you too.” Just after Celestia had left out the door, Chase called after her "Wait who's Twilight?" but she was already gone.

After she left, Chase sat in silence going over his conversation with Celestia over and over again. He didn’t want to accept the idea of magic being responsible for his situation, but the longer he thought about it, the more it became evident no other explanation made sense. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't find a scientific approach that would land him where he was at. So with little explanation Chase was forced to do something he hated. He had to believe everything Celestia told him. The illogical explanation seemed like the only one that could work. The fact that he was a unicorn, and no humans were around was a pretty good indication he wasn't on Earth anymore. All Chase wanted was answers, and now that he had a few, he didn’t want to accept it.

“Why am I of all people the only one affected? Why am I a unicorn? Why am I here?”

In the moments that followed Chase did something he hadn’t done for a long time. He cried.

With no idea how much time had passed, a few things were becoming apparent. Chase’s stomach clock was long overdue, and his headache was beginning to lessen to more of a dull roar. How he was going to fix the first problem was still unsure, until a close inspection of the room revealed that the nurse had left that food cart earlier.

Reluctantly Chase began scooting towards the edge of the bed by dragging his body with his hooves. This can’t be so bad right? ‘All I have to do is crawl over to the cart, and then what? One hurdle at a time. First I have to get off this bed.’ When he made it to the edge, and glanced over the side it became clear that yet another thing in this world wanted to see Chase fail. ‘This looks pretty high.’ He thought.

Deciding to put his doubts behind him and just go for it, Chase began trying to crawl off the bed and put his front hooves on the ground. However, when he got that far he was stuck halfway between the floor and the ground.

“Now what genius?”

While he was trying to decide what to do, the sheets began sliding with him until his back hoofs came off the bed, and the floor became a lot closer. His position had caused him to flip over backward, and land on his back while staring up at the ceiling.

“Ow”

He could have laid on the floor for a while, but that would be letting circumstances win. He could adapt; he could win! After a few minutes of struggle, Chase rolled himself over onto his stomach preparing to attempt to walk like a quadruped. 'Wow that sounded weird.' His name, learning to walk, and quadruped in the same sentence? A shiver went down his spine making some of his fur stand on end. 'Don't think just do, right? I can do this!'

"For the success, and for food!"

The guards outside his door were told not to bother him, but man were they getting a kick out of the strange remarks coming from inside. 'If only the job were always like this' they thought. On the inside, Chase was in a match between extending his legs and plopping back on the floor. If he was going to win, he would have to solve this tactfully. Alright attempt number 6. 'If I get up on my hind legs at the same time, maybe I can push off with my forelegs.' After a lot more effort than expected to stand, Chase was up and wobbling on his hooves. Unsteady or not, he was proud.

"Haha. Beat that floor!"

'What are the odds I fall over when trying to take a step? 60%? That good huh. Alright let's do this. Lets see... front left with back left? or was it front left with back right?' Ah screw it.' Chase began trying to take a step forward only to fall flat on his face, horn meeting floor. Remind me never to hit my horn again, he thought as his headache began to return.

"Ok. Point taken floor."

The next part of a half hour was filled with him trying to walk and failing miserably.

"Urmsm… Try number 27. I can do this." Back up on his hooves, he steadied himself, and put one hoof in front of the other. To his astonishment... no floor! he had taken his first steps in Equestria. After 5 more awkward steps nearly causing him to topple a few times, he made it to the food cart. Ok step 1 complete. Now how to eat.

Just as he was debating whether to lose his sense of humanity and stick his face in what appeared to be a salad and flowers he might have found in his lawn, Chase heard the door opening. Glancing to his right revealed the nurse.

"Red Cross was it?" he asked

"Yes. Glad to see you up and about. I heard about your odd predicament, Mr. Waters, but I want you to know we’re all here to help. How's that headache of yours?"

Everyone here is so nice, and her genuine concern was heartwarming. No point hiding anything.

"Well, my head feels like it's getting hit by a hammer instead of a truck, and I've been trying to walk for the last 30 minutes, but under the circumstances I suppose things could be worse. I apologize for my rude behavior last time, even if it was a little out of my hands."

"Out of your hands? Here, take this medication for the headache, and make sure to eat something. I'm surprised you haven't touched the food I brought. Do you need some help with that."

"Um... Could you tell me what I'm supposed to do with these flowers? Also, I hate to ask, but... how do you eat?"

Nurse Red Cross began trying to help the stallion. She offered other food choices and tried to answer some of his peculiar fundamental questions. In the end he just asked for a few fruits. Whatever was going on inside this Stallion, nurse Red Heart was certain that either Mr. Waters had hit his head a few to many times, or he needed a lot more than medical attention to help him recover.

Chapter 5: No More Puns

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 6: Surprises

~ April 11th 1020 ME ~

'9:06am'

After a rather pleasant first night in Equestria, (excluding the ones he couldn't remember) Chase felt rejuvenated, and slightly excited for a future that held few guarantees. After so long of living a rather predictable life, the possibilities of what could occur while in Equestria were exciting while also a little daunting. From what he could remember from his time in the royal library last night, this world had some scary beasts roaming the less populated areas.

Twilight had arrived with Spike around noon to pick him up, and they went about viewing the sites of Canterlot while killing some time before their train departed. Chase really wasn't sure what to expect, because the city looked rather small compared to the castle covering the hill side, but he was pleasantly surprised. The number of ponies roaming about, and the beautiful architecture kind of reminded him of a trip he took to Washington D.C. in 5th grade. Statues, and arches were not uncommon, and the place looked much larger while being immersed in it. He marveled at a section of the city positioned west of the castle dotted with large mansions.

'Yup, this place has millionaires too... or should I say milliomares'. He chuckled at his own horrible joke, gaining himself an odd look from Spike who wondered why he started spontaneously laughing. Chase assured him that he wouldn't find it funny, despite Spike's protests that he would.

Soon they approached the train station ready to sit for a while, and relax.

"Hey Mr. Waters, I've been meaning to ask you... Why do you want to be addressed so formally anyway?"

"Well ever since I found out that I was a pony, something about my name didn't feel right. I can't really explain it, but I've always liked my last name anyway, so that's why I decided to go by it. I don't know... it just feels more appropriate right now for some reason. Sorry if that didn't really answer your question."

"No, it's alright. It just feels odd-"

"-my name is Chase. Chase Waters."

"Well that was sudden. What changed your mind?"

"Nothing. I still want to go by Waters. I just felt you deserved to know my real name since you're taking me in. Maybe I lost part of myself when I came over here, or maybe I found out I was missing something to begin with. Either way, until I can place what that is, I'm going by Mr. Waters, since I don't feel like the same human who left Earth 3 days ago."

"Huh, you're really different from most of my friends, you know?"

"Is that a good different?"

"I think so, but I'll let you know when I find out."

"Twilight... Thanks for considering me one of your friends. I'm not used to that."

"It's an honor Mr. Waters! But don't think you can hide your world from me forever, I don't think I could handle so much potential new information so close to me without getting any answers!"

"You are such a researcher! I'm surprised you don't have a book as a cutie mark."

Spike was getting a little tired of feeling ignored by the other two at this point, so he took the moment to speak up. "While I'm glad you two are getting along, can you please include me in your conversation? I'm dying here?" And with that the three began to share some laughs, and enjoy each other's company. Soon the train was boarded, and the scheduled leave time had arrived. As the train began to chug its way down the tracks, a unicorn, alicorn and dragon were joined in a train car on their way to Ponyville anticipating new adventures.

'3:26'

After what felt like 30 minutes of travel, the train lurched forward, and the feeling of the brakes being applied could be felt. "Well that's odd" Twilight commented as she made her way to a nearby window. "The train usually doesn't experience many delays." Just before the train had come to a stop, it lurched again.

"Um Twilight this doesn't feel like just a delay... I think there's something out there." Spike said nervously.

"You boys stay here. I'm going to go investigate."

"Um excuse me but I don't really like that plan. isn't it dangerous for you to go alone?" Not that Chase didn't have faith in Twilight, but this was probably just some little train malfunction, and the engineers would get right on it.

"Don't worry about me. I've helped save the world a hoofful of times, I should be fine.” Twilight assured him, and herself at the same time.

"Well she has a point." Spike said

"Alright but be careful, and you'll have to promise to give me some context on that later." Twilight departed, and the boys were left to wait in the train car. After only a few moments following her departure, a boom rocked the train.

"Sorry Spike, but I'm not leaving Twilight out there by herself." And with that Chase took off out the door.

"Wait! But Twilight specifically told us... oh and he's gone."

Once outside Chase took up his surroundings. After a scan of the area, he saw something that he never thought possible. In front of the train stood a bear about as tall as a school bus is long. What scared him however was Twilight seemingly stuck, squirming in its paw. He wouldn't have seen her, but she was thrashing about, and the movement caught his eye. When she disappeared in a flash, Chase assumed the worst. In a poor state of mind, he charged the beast. Him... a former human who could hardly maneuver in his new body charged what he would later discover was an Ursa Minor. The monster, having hurt Twilight, was making him angry. His rage was building, and he was losing his ability to think straight. This pent-up anger, which he assumed was all the frustrations from being brought to Equestria, was boiling over.

His intense focus on the Ursa caused him to not notice that Twilight had teleported off to its left, or that his horn began to glow a vibrant gold. He continued running only thinking one thought; I'm going to take down this beast. Whatever had taken over him, it blocked him from thinking about how stupid this idea was. As he got closer, The Ursa focused its eyes on him and began bringing its fist down in his direction. Twilight could only stare dumbfounded at his horn aglow and his thoughtless charge. It felt like the world was moving in slow motion. She began charging her magic to do a large scale levitation spell like she had when lyra brought an Ursa to town, but she realized that she wouldn't be able to produce so much mana so quickly. Chase's eyes began to become a solid white.

She was sure Mr. Waters was about to get crushed and she would lose her newest friend. She had only known him personally for a day! Why wouldn't he stop, and why had he not listened to her! ...And why was there so much mana in the air?

Chase's vision narrowed more as the ursa's swing was mere feet away from him, and his head was throbbing, specifically his horn. It almost reminded him of the sensation he felt when he had hit his horn, only this was more at the tip of the new appendage. Seconds before he was smashed, Chase let out a deep battle cry of a scream, and unleashed a literal tidal wave of water knocking the Ursa off its feet, away from the tracks. The giant collided with the ground causing sound to reverberate from the violent crash. Clouds began circling overhead, and a bolt of lightning struck straight into the bear's head. The ursa letting out a blaring roar. Chase stood his ground as the ursa began struggling to run away with its furry backside lit on fire. The Ursa was full of confusion as to why it had been by the train.

Twilight's jaw was on the grass when she saw the cutie mark on Chase's flank. A storm cloud releasing water, ice, and lightning was depicted with the varying elements falling towards a flame at the bottom. The color scheme reminded her of his mane colors. While Twilight was amazed, relieved and furious at Mr. Waters all at the same time, she along with quite a few other passengers couldn't move from their shocked states. The first one to break the standstill however was Chase, who began falling towards the earth below. Chase for the second time in his life passed out.

Time: 'Unkown'

'What happened? One second I was running and then nothing.' Chase was standing in a dark void somehow coherent, even though he didn't feel like he was grounded to the world. He was also back in his human body. 'This is a weird dream, that's for sure.'

"Mr. Waters I make a note to protect ponies dreams, but I don't think I have ever met someone asleep as much as you."

'That voice...' "Luna? Why is Luna in my dream? What is this, like take three of feeling dead?"

"We don't get much of your humor, but we have been watching over the night for a long time. I must say your human form is nothing like what we expected, but then again I wasn't really told anything about it. How are you feeling? You seem to be out of the waking world a little excessively."

"Well being that the last thing I remember was running towards a giant bear with constellations on its body, I'm still a little flustered. I also can't figure out why my own dream doesn't know what I'm thinking. Why are you asking me questions as if your not part of my subconscious?"

"As we said, it is our responsibility to watch over dreams, and your extended time asleep has been quite concerning."

"Ok well if you're actually here, can you stop switching between I and we. It's rather confusing."

"Right, I have been trying to accustom myself to today's speech, but I wont worry you with that. You must know however that you have been out for almost three days."

"Three days?! When I wake up I may never sleep again with all the extra I have stocked up."

"Yes, well I believe Twilight is quite concerned about you, and it has taken me this long to get through. It is my understanding that you are in a magically induced coma."

"Could you have presented that news any harder?" Chase said sarcastically.

"Don't tell me who taught you some of your manners. Just know that there is some strong magic within you that is quite dangerous. Stick with Twilight and her friends and you will be fine, but be warned of straying into corruption. There are people out there that would try to use you for your magic."

"Twilight is okay? Thank God! Look... No disrespect your majesty, but I think you got the wrong guy. I just got here, remember? The only thing my horn has been doing is throbbing."

"Be aware when I use my magic to wake you, things won't be the same. Some of the strongest unicorns can't take down an Ursa Minor, and whether you remember it or not, I believe you have acquired a cutie mark related to a magical surge. Your surge was so large however that instead of being raw magic, it took on the form of natural elements. You drew on powers of this world that almost nopony can tap into. We could actually feel a slight part of the released mana all the way in Canterlot. Alicorns are more sensitive to such things. You are dangerous Mr. Waters! You must be careful with what you are capable of. Magic can sometimes be fueled by emotions. If you are unable to control yourself, you will be spending a lot more time with me and my sister, and you will be kept contained." What Luna didn't tell Chase was that more extreme measures could also be necessary, but her sister, in her kind heart told her not to mention this to the ponified human. He had been through enough already.

"You mean I took down that Ursa Minor! I don't even remember! I can't believe it! I think I owe Twilight some money... I told her this place couldn't surprise me any more than it already had, but between you being in my dreams, and me doing magic?! WHAT NEXT?" He half yelled with a mix of fear and excitement.

"Your future is certainly one of importance Mr. Waters. Learn, make friends, and don't let Celestia or myself down. For now you must wake.... awake" Luna said as she touched her horn to him, and everything disappeared; if that's even possible while already in a dark void.

His last thought before regaining consciousness was why did I have to spend 5 days of my first week in Equestria asleep?

What a revelation. No better "Welcome to Equestria" than 5 days unconscious!

Author's Note

Chapter 6 is ready for you! I think I was a little surprised when I wrote this myself, because I made a spur of the moment desicion to make him earn his cutie mark early on (Sorry Crusaders), and I also didnt realize that it had really been a whole week of mostly sleeping! Anyways, Enjoy!

Chapter 7: New in Town

~ April 14th, 1020 ME ~

'10:22am'

After 3 days of Chase being unconscious, Twilight was getting very worried. His magic reserves had been stretched, and practically emptied. Since then they had recovered, but Chase still remained unconscious. She had long since sent a letter to the princesses about the dangerous surge she had witnessed, but even after all this time, it was still processing with Twilight just how much magic potential Chase could have.

‘Never in my life have I seen a unicorn harness the powers of nature, let alone have a special talent focused on the elements. He's only been here for a week, and he can do things I can't!'

She wanted to be done feeling like she had a responsibility to him, but he helped save the train from an attack by an Ursa Minor! She also wouldn’t admit to her friends that the reason she showed so much concern with his recovery was because she liked his personality. He was very different, but so was she before she got her head out of books 24/7. Not to mention his dramatic, but genuinely kind nature was a little cute.

She had told her friends about her mission to help him experience the magic of friendship, and as a result had spent time at the hospital watching him recover. Ok take that back... she wasn’t ‘watching’ him like some kind of stalker, she was just preparing to help him when he woke up. Yeah that must be right.

His current state while in a coma was rather disturbing, since he seemed physically healthy, but the Ponyville hospital had let him stay in their recovery wing to make sure he was stable. After hours of waiting by his side and going back and forth between her castle and the hospital, Twilight was getting exhausted herself. ‘Yeah she was trying to be a good friend, but why was she going so far for somepony she had only known for a short time?’

All these questions ran through her head while she sat on a couch by the window of Mr. Waters hospital room.

“Luna?” Mr. Waters mumbled.

‘He spoke! Thank God he’s alright!’

Finally after a few minutes Chase began to stir. It was around 10 A.M. on the third day of his coma.

“Where am I?” Chase spoke rather raspy.

“You’re in the Ponyville Hospital. I was so worried about you. You remained in a coma even after your magic was restored.”

“So Luna was right... Thanks for your concern Twilight. Do you think I could get some water?”

“Sure. Hang tight.”

“I wasn’t planning on going anywhere.”

Twilight returned with a glass, and got an unenthused look from Chase.

“How am I supposed to hold this? I still don’t get how you manage to hold things with hooves.”

“Here let me help you.” Twilight used her magic to bring the water up to Mr. Waters as he sat up.

After a long drink Mr. Waters put up his hoof and said, “Remind me to practice so we never have to do that again. That felt so awkward.” His voice now had a fuller sound now that his throat had been lubricated.

Silence ensued for a few moments...

"So how exactly do hospitals work around here? As nice as it is to hang around and talk, I'm assuming I am healthy enough to get out of the room staining my eyes with white?"

"Huh, I wonder why the walls are white. My books would say vibrant colors bring about joyful emotions-"

"-Twilight, back to me leaving."

"Oh right. Well after a doctor signs off that you're still in one piece you should be good to go."

"Am I supposed to find that amusing?"

"Nope but I would make Applejack proud with my honesty."

"Uh huh."

After the routine checkup that was a little too up close and personal for his taste, Twilight and Chase were making their way towards the exit of the hospital.

"Chase, why do you still look so uncomfortable?"

"Um... well I noticed before but during my close proximity with those doctors I became rather self conscious of my nakedness. They were looking at me so close, and running tests, and all I could think about was the fact that I needed some coverage."

"Soooo I take it that's not normal?"

"I'm used to wearing clothes everyday."

"Oh. Well you've been taking that rather well all things considered."

"I've just been telling myself not to think about it.... but back there.... I thought about it."

"I take it you didn't have a tail before?"

"Definitely not! I've now had one a week longer than I ever thought I would."

"Well moving on to happier thoughts... Welcome to Ponyville!" Twilight pushed open the glass door of the local hospital and let Mr. Waters take in his first impression of the little town she fell in love with. As he walked out the door a wall of pink appeared in his face. It seemed to come out of thin air, making Chase stumble back onto his rump.

"HI! ARE YOU THE PONY TWILIGHT TOLD US ABOUT? THAT MUST MEAN YOUR NEW HERE, BECAUSE I KNOW EVERYPONY IN PONYVILLE, AND I DON'T KNOW YOU, WHICH MEANS WE NEED A WELCOME PARTY, AND YOU HAVE A NICE MANE."

"I'm sorry... who are you?"

"Oh that's easy. I'm Pinkie Pie, and I work at Sugarcube Corner! I make a point to know everypony, including birthdays, and names! You're Chase and you were born November 5th."

"Wait... but I didn't tell you that, and not even Twilight knew my birthday. How-"

"Don't ask," Twilight interrupted. "We've learned not to question the pinkie sense. Just watch out for twitchy tail."

"If you say so. Just don't expect me to believe she is psychic or something"

"That's silly! Psychic? More like joy, and laughter, and surprises! I love surprises!" Pinkie replied. "Well I got to get back to work, but my left eye twitch told me someone new was in town so I had to check up on that. It was great meeting you! Bye bye!"

In response Chase just waved back. "That was the weirdest conversation I have ever had."

All Twilight could think was 'he'll get used to it', as she giggled. They began to tour the city viewing the quaint houses, and small businesses. It was decided that for the time being if Mr. Waters was to be a resident, it should be official, so they made their way towards the town hall to fill out some paperwork. It was also agreed upon that he didn't want to reveal his origins if possible. He kept saying something about the media in his world going wild with any story an eighth as interesting as this.

Upon entry into the office Twilight was greeted by the secretary, and was able to schedule a meeting with Mayor Mare who was having a rather slow day. For some reason Mr. Waters thought the Mayor's name was rather funny, but she chalked it up to another thing from his world.

After getting called into the Mayor's office Twilight had a seat followed by Chase who took the other chair a little more hesitantly, no doubt because of his unfamiliarity with controlling his new appendages.

"Good to see you Princess Twilight! And I see you brought a new face! My name is Mayor Mare, and you are?

"Mr. Waters, A pleasure to meet you."

"That's an interesting name. So did you come here to find a place, or a job? People often come through when they decide to settle here. You are staying right?

"Yes, but Twilight has been generous enough to provide her hospitality to me."

"I see. So Princess, is everything holding up ok at your new residence?"

"Yes everything is perfect, but I suppose you're wondering why we're here. You see, Mr. Waters' records are rather lacking, so we want to file paperwork to make him an official citizen!"

"Ah, that won't be too difficult. Might I ask why his records are not well kept?"

"I’ll answer that ma'am," Chase began. "I had an incident with some sparks that started a fire. I lost almost everything I had."

"Oh dear. Well, let's see what we can do to help with that. Lets start with your full name. Mr. Waters doesn't quite suffice."

"Right... my name is Blazing Waters"

"I can't believe you lied to the mayor not once, but twice!" Twilight began

"Technically I didn't completely lie the first time. Some magical sparks did take away all my stuff."

"Yeah but BLAZING WATERS?! What's that all about?"

"Well you guys have weird names, and in my head it sounded cool. Chase still feels wrong. I imagined you calling me Blazing and it made me smile so I went with it. Blazing that was fire. You're my hero Blazing!"

Twilight looked very unimpressed. "Are you done now?"

"Yeah sorry. I guess it was a bit rash. I still like it though."

"Alright come on, I'd like to introduce you to the rest of my friends."

Following their time with the mayor, Twilight was introducing 'Blazing' to ponies left and right. They went by Sweet Apple Acres, Rarities boutique, where Blazing played up his personality as a fine gentle colt, and they still had time to go to Sugarcube Corner for lunch. Unsurprisingly Pinkie somehow knew to call him Blazing. 'Wow she really gets around.' Chase was picking at a salad while Twilight was enjoying a hayburger and fries.

I'm going to get him to try a hay fry. "Hey Blazing, if you eat one of these I'll start your magic training tomorrow."

"Really?!" And with that Twilight got him. Waiting for his reaction, she was surprised how long it took him to say anything; just quietly chewing away.

Finally she spoke, “I already planned on starting lessons tomorrow anyway, so how is it?”

“You mean to tell me that was a ploy so that I would try something inedible? And I thought you were a friendship expert.”

“Oh come on. You can’t tell me it’s not good... right?”

“I’ll admit if I wasn’t mentally telling myself it is wrong to like something that was once not on my palette of food choices, then yes I find it to be rather satisfying.”

“See that wasn’t so hard. You're getting better at being honest with yourself already.” She said as she winked. “Come on, let's take the rest to go. I want to introduce you to my friend Rainbow Dash. Don’t let her think she’s too cool for you though. She’s rather loyal in her own confident way.”

With that they got up from their table and thanked Pinkie as they left, who was in as bubbly a mood as ever.

“Blazing, I’m glad I met you.”

“Despite my circumstances... back at you Twilight. It’s nice socializing more than twice a week.”

As they began walking outside in the streets of Ponyville, Twilight was left with her thoughts.

I got it! The cutie map mission is for me to share the elements of harmony with Blazing so that he knows what friendship is. He doesn’t have a friendship problem because he’s never experienced what friendship really looks like!

Not that this was a major revelation, but Twilight was on her way to showing Blazing his importance; showing him that somepony else cares.

Whether he was Mr. Waters, Chase, or Blazing, she was going to make him feel at home or at least close to home no matter what!

Author's Note

Sorry it took me a while to get this chapter out. I’ve been quite busy with online schooling, and I also didn’t want to work on it during mother’s day weekend. As always feel free to point out any writing errors because I’m no expert at it. Hope you enjoy!

Chapter 8: In the Shadows

Author's Note

Short chapter, but loads of fun to write! Hold onto your hats.

Chapter 8: In the Shadows

Location: Unknown
Time: Unknown

"WHAT HAPPENED TO LEVELING THAT TRAIN?! TWILIGHT SPARKLE WAS SUPPOSED TO BE THE FIRST CAPTURED CHESS PIECE. THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN THE CATALYST TO STRIKE FEAR INTO THE CONFUSED PONIES! INSTEAD WE HAVE YET ANOTHER PONY FLINGING MAGIC INTO OUR PLANS!"

"Sir, I don't think you understand the complications of this failure. That pony that you are referring to isn't even from around here. My inside sources say he just showed up in Equestria a little over a week ago."

"SHUT IT! YOU MAY HOLD VALUABLE INFORMATION, BUT YOUR MINIONS ARE USELESS IF WE DON'T TIME OUR EVERY MOVE PERFECTLY."

"AS IT IS THEY NOW KNOW THAT THE URSA WAS UNLIKELY AN ACCIDENT. They spend almost all their days in a cave, and we almost ruined our ENTIRE OPERATION by putting a BEAR in the sunlight."

"My Lord, what is our new time frame for doomsday?"

"We've only been pushed back 3 days. The next phase will unfold next week. You know what to do!

"AND YOU MISS, BETTER HAVE YOUR DRONES READY FOR YOUR PLAY!"

"You can count on it. They won't know what hit them, until my laugh echoes through the air. I will be their-

“-You are dismissed!”

“How rude! If it wasn’t for me, we wouldn’t even likely be collaborating. You fools would have charged in blind and lost like you do best.”

“Sure! And since you have lost twice please go make sure you prepare as much as possible.” The dark figure exited the open section of the cavern, leaving the other two behind.

“Now that she’s finally gone... we must talk. She was speaking as if I didn’t know about this mysterious golden pony. I have been watching Canterlot and Ponyville with a close eye, and his magic is something I’m unfamiliar with. I’ve been around for centuries, and this thing thinks he can show up now and ruin my plans! I would like to deal with him before the grand finale. I'm entrusting you to bring him to me! I want his power! Be discreet however... he is staying with our favorite six ponies. Do not let the elements of harmony make you a failure again! We can’t have any outside disturbances! If you fail your chances to share Equestria’s rule are over. Do not disappoint! You have until sundown on the 22nd!”

“My Lord... the future King does not DISAPPOINT! You would be wise to remember that! You will have his demise, and the elements will be scattered according to plan. It will fall on you to fulfill your mission in Canterlot. If you don’t have a party at that castle with the Princesses, you can bet your bits that I won’t hesitate to finish the job without you!”

“Leave me! AND REMEMBER I DON’T LOSE!”

With a huff, the room was left with one individual sitting atop a throne.

What a bunch of fools. They all think they can be the head, but a good chess player must have rooks, and bishops too. We will win, but we may have sacrifices along the way. He sat in his chair enjoying the power he felt. It was a dark, wet environment, and frankly not his preferable seat to rule from, but he would soon have more than just a throne. The ponies will be confused by my moves that play out simultaneously. They won’t see any of the coming calamity, and in their distress I will emerge. They will be weak and helpless against my power! I won’t just be a lord... I will be the King! And when I take the power from every being in Equestria, even my ‘teammates’ will be forced to lower their heads to me.

A stereotypical evil laugh resonated throughout the complex cave systems.

“Muhaaaa... this will be FUN!”

Chapter 9: The Skies the Limit

~ April 14th, 1020 ME ~

'1:46pm'

"Hey Twilight, you said that you were going to introduce me to Rainbow Dash, but so far I haven't seen any sign of where we're going. Can you please give me some indication why we’re walking through an empty field?"

"Don't you see her house up ahead?"

Chase was glancing in the direction they were headed, but was really feeling like Twilight was crazy. There is nothing in front of us... does she think she's being funny? Not that I laugh much, but this isn't even the slightest bit comical. As he continued questioning Twilight, he looked upward towards the mostly clear blue skies. That's when he saw it. A rainbow was formed on the side of a cloud. The cloud was strangely in the shape of a building closely resembling Roman architecture. "Ok... Sugarcube Corner looking like it was made of candy was one thing Twilight, but you can't seriously tell me someone lives in that?"

"Why not? That's Rainbow Dash's house. She worked rather hard to put that together."

"Put that together? Put that TOGETHER! What do you mean she put that together!"

"Well she is our lead weather pony, so I would love it if you could stop yelling at me."

"What does predicting the weather have to do with building a freaking house out of clouds?! How do you not even fall through that?"

"Because I'm a Pegasus. duh." Rainbow dash stated as she hovered in front of Blazing and Twilight. "I was trying to catch a few z's after a long day clearing the weather, so if you could please keep it down that would be great."

"Sorry Rainbow Dash, I wanted to introduce you to Blazing Waters. He's... a little new to some of the traditionally obvious facts, because he lived in a rather isolated community."

As Twilight was saying this, Chase was thinking: 'well she's not exactly wrong, but I'm surprised she of all people isn't telling the full story. I guess she will leave that up to me.'

"Ya Ya, well I can’t give you as many clear days if you keep yacking. I have to save up energy to keep my speed in top condition."

While a week ago talking ponies would have blown Blazing's mind, (heh I guess it kind of did) Rainbow dash hovering above the ground while hardly flapping her wings was a sight! Blazing's mind was racing trying to catch up with all the physics breaking stunts that would have made Isaac Newton cry.

"So you mean to tell me that you can actually control the weather around here? How does that work with the water cycle?"

"Twilight, translation please?" Dash questioned dubiously.

"Well I think what Blazing means is how do we keep the environment stable, and the ground properly watered, but um... my books all reference pegasi managing the process.” This was no doubt another thing Twilight would ask Blazing about later.

"Huh... well anyways, how does it feel to meet the fastest flier in all of Equestria? Pretty cool huh?" Dash exclaimed.

Under his breath Blazing commented about how full of herself Rainbow was, but decided best to not destroy her ego lest he wanted to risk getting hurt. "Well a talent such as yourself is an honor to meet, but you'll have to prove it at some point. I don't do all talk, I run off evidence."

"Eww, I can see why you and Twilight get along... Now there's two eggheads! Let me guess you find a lot of that evidence with your head behind a book?"

"Dash!" Twilight countered.

"What? You know I'm just messing with him. What friend doesn't enjoy a little prank?"

There it is again. She just called me a friend and we just met. How can these ponies all live such idyllic lives, and act as if everything is about friendship. Friendship doesn't solve my problems... work and effort does.

"Well just be nice! He is going to be my house guest, so I want my friends on good terms with him."

"Oo did Twilight find a special somepony? She's actually having a stallion stay at the castle!"

Blazing and Twilight's faces grew beat red as Blazing was trying to get a horrid image out of his head of falling for a pony, and Twilight was denying the embarrassment brought on by Dash.

"Absolutely not Dash! I'm helping him master his magic. He's my student with loads of magical potential. A lot like I was under Celestia actually, and I wont have you accusing me of having feelings for him even if he is kinda cute..." At this Twilight abruptly stopped talking, putting a hoof over her mouth, realizing her words were fighting against her, and Blazing piped in ready to end the awkward turn in conversation.

"Moving on so this hole doesn't get any deeper, how would you feel about giving us a tour of your house Dash, um if that's even possible Twilight? Is there some kind of spell to get us up there?"

"Dude, you don't even have wings, and expecting Twilight to just get you up there is not cool. I think she's only been once herself."

"Oh, well I just figured since magic was the explanation for quite a bit of the amazing things happening around here, there was something for flight, or cloud walking."

Twilight, having begun recovering from her declaration said, "you're right, but it's not as simple as wanting it to happen, and having it occur. Varying spells become more complex, requiring more energy to complete. Sorry to disappoint you, but we don't have a tour of the cloud house on the agenda for today."

"Well as much as I'd like to keep talking, I'm sure we both have places to be... You're a different pony Blazing, but it was a pleasure to meet you. I think you should race me sometime, but obviously you wouldn't stand a chance."

"Obviously..." Blazing repeated attempting to make air quotes which turned out to be ineffective with hooves. "...but you're on." He finished with a smirk.

"Good to see you Dash, Sorry to interrupt your beauty sleep."

"It's all good, Twilight. I like this guy, even if I can't compete with you for him." Dash whispered.

Twilight blushed again, while this time Blazing was oblivious to what was going on.

"See you around Rainbow Dash." Blazing hollered as Dash flew off and they began heading in the direction of Twilight's castle.

"You can call me Dash, Blazing. It's what my friends call me." Rainbow yelled back.

After they got a little ways away Twilight said, "You’re lucky she didn't bring up the Wonderbolts. You would have been in big trouble when she found out you didn't know what they were. She would have talked your ear off!"

"You can't leave me with just that... now you have to tell me or my curiosity will get the better of me."

"Eh, don't tell Dash I said this about her idols, but they're just some good stunt fliers that help keep the skies safe around Equestria."

"Ya if they are really her idols it would probably go something like this: Good fliers? TWILIGHT! They are the best! and I would be scared to see Dash upset about something to do with flight or speed."

The pair continued on the road having enjoyed a successful introduction with a pony full of confidence, and they tried to put the more embarrassing parts of the conversation out of their mind.

Did I really call him cute? I mean he's a well-built stallion but... She shivered at the thought. Besides, he wasn't even meant to be a pony.

Did she really think I was cute?' The thought made him quiver slightly, but also made him wonder how he felt. 'Hopefully Spike can keep me sane with all my wild thoughts. Is that weird? I guess he is a young Dragon. Ughhh!

And with that they continued in silence, subject to the imaginations of their own minds.

Chapter 10: That's a lot of damage

~ April 14th, 1020 ME ~

'2:10pm'

"Spike, we’re home!"

"Twilight? Thank goodness you're back! The size of this place is overwhelming when you're gone." Spike walked into the entry hall. "Hey I see Mr. Waters is back on his hooves? Good to have you back! Twilight was really worried you wouldn't wake up, but I convinced her you were tough from our little time together."

"Hey thanks Spike! Can't say I've had an experience quite like that before." A brief pause follows. "Say, you guys haven't thought of innovating the mechanics from your trains into other things with wheels have you? I always enjoy my exercise, but I have to admit walking everywhere is going to get old pretty fast, when I know what I'm missing out on."

"Hmm, you know I can't say that any pony I know has ever tried that. Usually we just settle for pulling carts. You certainly are full of ideas." Twilight intoned.

"Seems to me like it would be pretty dangerous." Spike added as the group walked through the foyer and into the maze of hallways branching off into the unknown.

"Spike if you don't mind I'd like to prepare some material for a lesson this afternoon with Blazing, as well as get a rest from the exhaustion of the last few days. Do you think you could give our new friend a tour for me?"

"Sure Twilight. I've been meaning to have a dragon to pony talk with him anyway."

"I'm not sure what that means, but Twilight... I've been meaning to tell you something before you go... I must be honest, I'm touched that you were worried about me in my unconscious state. Wouldn't have been fun waking up with little clue where I was at... Those doctors would have had some trouble on their hands at least...

I guess I just want to...

thank you...

That's all..." Besides Blazing's sentence being a little broken up Twilight replied with a simple "you're welcome" and uncomfortably excused herself due to reading too much into what she thought he was going to say.

"Whelp, I am a total embarrassment to Equestria now."

"Not just yet, but your well on your way." Spike joked. "It's all good. I'm only around 10 years younger than you, and still more socially mature."

"Wow... Thanks for the vote of confidence. So a tour then hmm? What exactly does that entail? This place is massive, and it could take me a couple days to see it all."

"Ahh don't exaggerate too much. Just imagine having to help with half the cleaning around here."

"Tell me again why you don't have peop... Err Ponies work for you."

"Formalities. Twilight hates them. I think she would prefer to live without the title, but unlike the other three princesses who have adapted to hide some of their personal feelings, she is not as good about covering how she feels about the bowing and formal address. If we had a staff, she would probably request vacation every other day to get away from it all."

Blazing whistled. "Wow."

"Alright enough of that! Next stop my favorite place in the castle! The Kitchen!"

"Do you cook too?"

"Yup. I learned fast that tulip sandwiches don't cut it when Twilight gets on one of her study binges." As they continued down a hall and took a left, Spike cleared his throat.

"What?"

"I wanted to get a little ways away before I told you this. I'm sure we will get along fine, but since you're from another world I need to lay out some rules. If you do anything to hurt Twilight or her friends, especially Rarity, I will find you. Also Twilight's brother is the captain of the royal guard, and married to Princess Cadance, and Twilight was the student of Celestia, so basically... no funny business. Got it?"

"Um, was that really necessary? I'm pretty good at statistics, and I'm sure anywhere on this planet my background makes me a couple million to one. Also I kind of saved her life, so lighten up Spike."

"Well I'm glad that's out of the way. Welcome to the house, Blazing. Also for your own benefit, be warned that is far from the last welcome you will receive."

"Huh? What do you mean welcomes?"

"Sorry my lips are sealed."

"Ah man, I hate secrets. This better not be a surprise." Why is this taking so loooong? "Spike I don't mean to be a bad guest, but why does it feel like your lost in your own house."

"We're almost there. Just a little farther."

"With all the turns we made I would think we've made a few circles."

"Ah here we are!"

"What's that smell?"

"Probably left something out in the kitchen." Spike opened the door to the room which was surprisingly dark for the time of day it was. "After you"

"But it's dark, aren't you going to turn the light on?"

"I'll be right behind you!"

Blazing Waters made some uneasy steps into the rather unlit room. His nerves were rising by the second. When Spike came through and closed the door behind him, he felt his hairs stand on end; an odd sensation when you have a body covered in fur.

"Ah, here's the light." he heard Spike say.

"You could have left the do-"

"-Surprise!" As the lights came on, Blazing's ears were ringing slightly, and none other than Pinkie Pie was bounding up to him with a smile that barely fit on her muzzle. This was all fine and nice, except he had accidentally left a hole in the ceiling with a little raw mana from his horn that was starting to fade its golden color.

"Well I guess that means you were surprised!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"w-ha- ple- expl- is- th-iss?" 'What is this' came out like a bunch of barely comprehensible stutters. A red banner read welcome to Ponyville, along with 'Equestria' attached underneath it. Although Twilight looked visibly annoyed by the hole and a few ponies looked a bit startled, scared, or nervous, Pinkie knew how to lighten the mood and yelled "Let's Partee! Oh and of course I know how to lighten the mood!" (Pinkie please don't start that with me).

"I've never been invited to a party before. What am I supposed to do?"

"Well that's easy! Have fun!"

As you could expect from any Pinkie party, there were games, punch, decorations through the roof, and waaay too many sweets! Just looking at all the sugar could probably result in some serious weight gain for a human. But Blazing was not exactly fitting that category right now.

During the party Blazing made a point to ask Twilight if he would maintain his weight if returned to his human self, but she indicated that transformation magic was very complex and breaking the laws of the conservation of mass hadn’t been accomplished yet. It had to go somewhere. 'Frustrating to think this concept actually followed logic, despite his first transformation being without much explanation.' "Guess I can't eat 'whatever' I want then," but he thanked her anyway and began to enjoy getting to know new ponies.

It felt like Pinkie had invited half of Ponyville, making things rather awkward at first, but they started warming up to him after a while. Lyra was especially curious about his background, continually probing him for details on how he hadn't previously been in Equestria, until he finally lucked out and Bon Bon distracted her for him. Thank God for that!

All in all, it was a good time. He really enjoyed what it felt like to just sit back with a drink and talk with really down to earth individuals... even if they were a new crowd. He especially enjoyed getting to talk with Applejack more, who happened to be another one of Twilights friends. Her accent was great! She wore a Stetson and had a southern twang about her that seemed so out of place on a pony, but her forwardness was so easy to get along with. She had nothing to hide. No surprise she ran an apple farm; her name really gave that one away before they even met.

As things began winding down, and ponies began leaving well into the evening, the one thing itching at the back of most ponies minds was Blazing's background. They shared all kinds of things with him, but besides talking about his interests, he hardly said anything about where he came from. By now the main six and Spike were made aware, but as for everyone else, they were all un-informed. It would fall to Blazing whether he wanted to share.

Twilight would push him to open up of course, because no doubt his emotions about his past being bottled up would be dangerous, but she also couldn't help wanting to learn more about Humans. From the little hints here and there, they were a fairly advanced technological society and spoke Equish! How language overlapped across dimensions was a scientific marvel!

Instead of starting magic lessons that night, Blazing seemed relatively exhausted as was she, so Twilight promised that the next morning would mark the beginning of magic training. Hopefully this would prevent further holes from being blown through her house. She forgave Blazing, but also told him that he would be responsible for working off the repairs by studying hard.

They did continue the tour that never really happened previously, and showed him the guest room he'd be staying in. As the night rolled on and Blazing began preparing for bed his mind wandered to his apartment, which made him think about his daily routine, leading to thoughts of loss. He didn't really have anybody before, but now despite everyone considering him a friend, Twilight was one of the only ponies Blazing felt he could trust. 'No more computer. No more school. No more... BACON!' That travesty may seem silly, but those thoughts of what were no more continued, and not being able to eat meat was up there on the list.

He felt so emotional, which felt unnatural. I don't need to think about it. It could always be worse right? The one positive note he thought about before crashing for the night was the comfort of a warm bed. At least I have been blessed with ponies that were welcoming, and generous. Those were attributes that would stick with him.

'Ya, these ponies do care. 'Why?' is still a mystery.'

Chapter 11: Unlocking Potential?

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 12: Questions

~ April 15th, 1020 ME ~

‘9:15pm‘

Day one of magic lessons had turned into a huge success... but as Twilight lay awake in her chambers she was discontented about the previous week’s developments. Clearly she should feel more guilt for possessing full responsibility for stealing everything Blazing had known, and yet he seemed to be content with his circumstances. He hadn’t been disrespectful or spiteful. He wasn’t even showing much frustration over the whole situation. If anything he was teaching her more about herself than she was teaching him.

How could he have so much patience despite the fact that fate was out to spite him? He left almost everything behind and abandoned his own name. Was this just his way of coping; ignoring his past? Perhaps this was a method of making lemons into lemonade, but these lemons were hardly ripe.

Whatever the case, it was clear that she hadn’t really been the best model of friendship. Sure, she invited Blazing to study under her and stay at her residence, but was it for his benefit or hers? She was probably as excited, if not more excited to unlock his potential then he himself was. Selfish... I’ve been so selfish, and I’ve barely met Blazing. How have I got to know him as a pony? Have I been serving the needs of others, or fulfilling personal interest? These questions haunted Twilight as she lay in bed.

She had been reading a book on the laws of ambient magic and its production, but the distractions of her mind’s wanderings required her to put it aside. More questions were bombarding her brain, plaguing her nightly reading time. I’m a princess. What kind of role model do I want to be? What would Celestia do?, she asked herself.

It was during this brief moment of pondering that she reminisced on the spell that started it all. It feels like so long ago... but my spell was the one that backfired. Instead of cleaning up the pieces, and figuring out what went wrong like a good scientist, I’ve been ignoring my error as well. She was beginning to realize that she had promised to look for ways to return Blazing home, but had yet to make any progress on that claim. He’s not here to stay on his own accord. It’s my fault... and I’m going to fix this! That’s what I intend to do, and I won’t put it off any longer just because I think his magic potential is amazing! Let’s see... I need a book on teleportation. I need Starswirl’s book on dimensional theories based on spatial manipulation. Hmm... Here we are... I also need transformation and transfiguration magical research, which I have at least 8 books on... this will be a looooong night.

~ April 16th, 1020 ME ~

‘9:23am‘

It had been a restful, dreamless night for Blazing who had fallen asleep rather quickly as a result of the day’s magical training. He was surprised to have not been woken like he had on the previous day, but blessings come in many shapes and sizes, and the extra sleep was much appreciated. It did seem strange, however. Twilight had a time frame for almost everything yesterday... this seemed unlike her. Blazing was only in his second morning waking up at the castle, and yet not seeing Twilight this morning with her checklist in hoof was disappointing. She was so insistent on starting magic lessons early yesterday, yet forgoing that today was odd to say the least, Not that Blazing was complaining after getting extra sleep of course.

“I suppose this mystery can wait until after I’ve downed some coffee.” Blazing made his way towards the kitchens, which he was actually able to find on his own now. This did wonders to boost his confidence, but the kitchen was mysteriously empty. Isn’t Spike up yet? Choosing to be a man of action rather than patiently waiting for one of his hosts, Blazing started trying to get around the kitchen but quickly realized that his body control was still lacking. He couldn’t for the life of him figure out how ponies held things with their hooves. It was almost magnetic in nature, although obviously it was physics-defying magic. Rather than make a mess by trying to brew coffee with his hooves, he opted to try out his telekinesis early in the morning.

This resulted in a pool of water on the ground that Blazing really didn’t want to have to explain, but also a cup of coffee that smelled like it originated in a brewery from heaven. Eh... maybe just a homemade coffee that smelled of grinds, but it was still wonderful to wake up the senses.

My email is probably jam packed right now. Blazing winced as he recalled the things passing him by. Now more than ever feelings of being stuck reigned supreme. The concept of being trapped wasn’t doing favors for his mind. The last week he had been trying to push away any thoughts of home and stay optimistic, but even Earth was looking pretty bleak. I was stuck at home for the past few months before, and now I’m stuck here...So I guess that means it’s time for some magic. Why wallow in self pity after making it this far?

With that, Blazing began looking for Twilight. It was late in the morning, and he was ready for something exciting. “Hello?,” he called. “Twilight, are you there? Hello?”

Blazing wandered around the castle halls for about 8 minutes with no results, before coming upon a closed door opposite the library that had light shining under the crack. He knocked, but didn’t receive any indication that he was heard. “Twilight are you in there? It’s almost 10:00am, and I know you had things scheduled for today.”

After waiting outside for a minute, Blazing was debating walking in when the door finally opened with Spike popping his purple groovy face out. “Didn’t sleep well?”

Spike replied with a very nasally sound that matched his tired eyes, “Twilight had another one of her study nights, and I wasn’t smart enough to move my bed to a different room.”

“Study night?”

“Yeah when she gets like that there’s no stopping her from research. She gets so engrossed that it’s hard to even talk with her... take a look for yourself.” Spike opened the door a little farther, which brought Twilight into view. She had at least 14 books piled on a desk in front of her stacked with notes, and other various scrolls that she was scribbling away on. She had bloodshot eyes, but a determined look.

“Twilight... Sorry to interrupt. Are you alright? I think you may need some rest, or else you may not be able to work on whatever you're doing as efficiently.”

She kept writing away, unfazed by Blazing's comments. “Hey Spike, you mind if I come in and take a look?”

“Sure. I’m just going to go get some pancakes going. I might need to bust out one of my special gems to make it through this day.” He grumbled the last part as he walked out, leaving Twilight alone with Blazing.

Taking Spike’s advice, and trusting conversation wouldn’t get very far, he trotted over behind her to get a view of her work station. Whatever she was diagraming hardly resembled a written language, taking on a more archaic form. It looked like a mix of various runes connected by lines. The only reason Blazing was able to speculate on what it was is because he went through a fantasy faze while growing up. He tapped her shoulder, but she didn’t flinch. He then proceeded to wave a hoof in her face, which had the desired effect.

“Wah! Blazing, why did you do that?”

“Because you were so focused, I could have mistaken you for a zombie! You really need some sleep!”

“Excuse me?! I’m doing this for you, so I don’t need you pestering me about sleep. My friends did something like this once as well, but I’m fine.”

“Sounds like you’re trying to reassure yourself.”

Twilight let out a sigh. “I thought I could make some progress on a spell to help you get home, but I’ve spent the last 12 hours, and made no progress besides figuring out Starswirl the Bearded, my hero, couldn’t find a stable way to travel between continents, let alone dimensions. The only thing close to what we’re trying to accomplish is a mirror realm that we recently discovered a portal to, but for all I know, I have to get you to an alternate reality. I’m going to keep searching, but I don’t like it when the problems I’m trying to solve don’t seem to have an answer.”

“Do you need help?”

“Heh, I’m the element of magic, and I could hardly scratch the surface. What did you have in mind?”

“Well you shouldn’t try to solve everything alone. Find people to support you, and lean on them.”

“How do you do it?”

“Do what?”

“Stay positive, and teach me things about friendship, when you yourself said you hardly have any friends where you're from.”

“Well I like to face my problems a lot like you: head on. I would actually avoid friendships, because other people would let me down. They didn’t usually have the answers I was looking for. They thought my perspective was strange, and not many people were all too supportive. Honestly, I still think friendship hasn't really worked for me, but I’ve learned a lot about respect and integrity, so I try to live by those morals. When I feel out of control of life and my situation, God often carries me through. He helps me keep a healthy outlook on life, and promises me a future. I know it won’t be easy... my mind is fighting a battle right now, but I’m also encouraged, because I know that I am never alone. In a way I guess that’s what having a good friend is like.”

“Wow. I love you,” Twilight stuttered. “I mean, that’s not what I was going to say... I meant that I love your positive outlook. You know, I’m sorry... you were right. I really do need some sleep, because I’m not in my right mind. Thank you. Thanks for opening up a little.”

“Don’t mention it. Now sleep before I ignite one of your books.”

“You wouldn’t dare!”

“Just kidding.” Blazing said with a chuckle, which almost earned him a slap. “Just don’t be surprised if I can make it rain before you wake up.”

“Please don’t try a new spell unsupervised. I would rather you not blow up part of my castle.”

“Request considered. I suppose I will continue with levitation control until this afternoon.”

“Good. Now let this mare have her beauty sleep.”

“Do I need to remove your notes so that you're not tempted?” Blazing asked with a side smirk.

“I’m not sure if I should be offended by that. You’re just purposefully going back and forth with me now, aren’t you.”

“Maybe.”

“Ugh. Stallions.”

“Sweet dreams. Say hi to Luna for me.”

With that, Twilight rolled over and Blazing went to check on Spike to see the progress of the pancakes.

This is going to be a good day!

Author's Note

Chapter 12 is here! huge thanks to my new anonymous editor. I tried to make my word choice a little more sophisticated in this one. Enjoy!

Chapter 13: Seeping Darkness

~ April 16th, 1020 ME ~

‘7:47pm‘

Blazing desperately wanted to investigate further into his magical potential, but was forced to wait until Twilight awoke to instigate, and dispel any awry spells. Until now, his day had been spent playing Uno with Spike and reading his daily dose of equestrian history. The origins of Equestria were relatable to some Earthen history, but following the unification of the pony tribes, things couldn’t be more different. It turns out that Twilight and her closest friends were literally the latest embodiments of harmony, and each represented their own unique element.

Fluttershy personified (ponyified?) kindness, Applejack represented honesty, Rarity embodied generosity, Rainbow Dash: loyalty, Pinkie Pie: laughter, and Twilight was the element of magic itself.

The things they had accomplished were awe inspiring, from reforming a being of chaos to preventing eternal night. I certainly can’t do that with a traditional 9-5. Finally, after what felt like an eternity (and many hay fries) later, Twilight was awake, and magic training was to be resumed. Fortunately, it was still light enough to work outside, otherwise the night would have ended rather uneventfully.

The lesson of choice for the evening was shield spells; an art that Blazing quickly picked up. However, his magical control and sustaining of the barrier was very poor. He achieved a basic sphere, but trying to increase the radius would result in the strength sputtering and fizzling out.

“That’s great, Blazing! Can you try and change the consistency? Thicker shields are more versatile when defending physical blows, but a thinner flexible shield can handle projectiles better.”

“I’ll try, but my magic feels kinda funny right now. You remember your faucet analogy with mana, right? Well I may not know a lot about magic yet, but I feel like my flow has a plug holding me back. It’s almost like a dam is blocking half of the river.”

“Are you certain? Most unicorns can’t detect magical interference, but what you're describing sounds most concerning. Are you sure you aren’t improperly directing the flow?”

“I don’t know, Princess, but it’s getting worse.”

“That’s the idea.” Twilight’s eyes went green and her speech drawled. The change in her demeanor was clearly not natural.

“Twilight? Twilight, what’s going on? Spike?! Who’s there? Show yourself!”

“If you insist.” A darkened hue passed by Blazing’s hooves, and expanded by the castle wall, where the sunset was casting shadows. Blazing bolted in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres, when black crystals erupted from the ground and created a prison engulfing him. “Well great, that’s just great. Who do you think you are? My life’s already in pieces without your help making it worse!”

“The question is, who do you think you are?” The shadowed figure started lurking toward Blazing, its glowing green eyes becoming the prominent attribute. Purple wisps were trailing from the sides of the shadow. As the thing drew closer, the sun fell behind the hill.

“Twilight, go inside and let Spike know there’s no trouble out here, your little friend is just going for a walk.” The darkened creature spoke in a voice that seemed more fitting for a refined noble, but held an ominous tone to it.

“It will be done.”

“You don’t know who you're messing with,” Blazing spat out.

“Neither do you, but don’t worry, I have plans for you.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure King Sombra!”

“Ah so you have heard of me! To what do I owe this pleasure? Perhaps you could be a gentlestallion and tell me your name.”

“Twilight defeated you once, and I know your weakness.”

“Let me tell you a secret boy... I don’t have a weakness!”

“My fire magic will cut through your shadows!”

“Or cast more? I was expecting more from you when I heard you took down an Ursa Minor. Perhaps this is cause for disappointment.” The shadow that was King Sombra was now nearly atop the cage, bringing his face close. Blazing attempted to smack him where he assumed the Stallion’s face would be only for his hand to pass straight through.”

“Well, this has been fun, but we better get going before Ponyville shows up. Thanks for hanging out on the edge of town for me! You made things quite easy. Don’t worry, you will give us answers regarding your origins in due time.”

“So you think that’s it... that my magic is suppressed, and you can slip away in the darkness of the night?”

“With ease.” At that Sombra shoved a gag into Blazing’s mouth. The cage began levitating, and Sombra slipped towards White Tail Woods with his prize. Blazing couldn’t stop thinking about the “us” comment. No doubt he didn’t mean to let that slip, but why isn’t he controlling me? When Blazing was reading up on his history earlier, he was fortunate to have passed along the events connected to the crystal empire, and in that found the story of ‘King’ Sombra. Apparently this Stallion had relationship problems... go figure. He also had Power issues, was heartless, destructive, merciless and wicked. He chose to enslave the crystal ponies, and let hatred fuel his dark magic. His ability to prevent the magic of others, and control their behavior was powerful, but it was his ability to manipulate crystal, and shadows that gave him an edge.

All this would usually be cause for panic, but Blazing’s mind was elsewhere. A building pressure was slowly growing behind the dam, where the magic had been blocked off, and it was becoming apparent that Blazing's body was trying to resist the dark Magic’s grasp. He began to beat at the walls of the cage, and buck wildly.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you. We wouldn’t want you to hurt yourself. I think it’s prime time to take a rest.”

The shadow began to summon black tendril like magic, directing them towards the thrashing unicorn.

“This won’t hurt a bit.”

Blazing was pretty certain based on the book's description that the only counter to this magic fueled by hatred was love and joy. Yet he was still determined to overcome the spell with pure mana and a strong will to purge the darkness. Before the dark magic breached the cage wall, Blazing let out a war cry as golden light shot from his horn ripping the exhaustion spell down the middle. Unlike the Ursa encounter, Blazing was fully aware of his surroundings, and began expanding a shield spell around himself. Strangely, it took on a different color than it had while practicing with Twilight. Rather than glowing gold, it was closer to that of a pure white. The barrier fought with the crystal walls around him, and slowly pushed them apart. During this surprise, Sombra transformed into his physical form to increase his power. He now stood with silver armor, a spiked crown, and his gray coat, which was no longer shrouded.

Blazing, now free, started engulfing the forest floor in fire, which spread quickly, and probably was more destructive than helpful. Despite that, it still surprised Sombra, who hesitated, but only for a moment. He quickly came to his senses and prepared a calculated counterattack.

Sombra began to cast a manipulating mind control spell on Blazing to subdue him despite his hopes to complete the extraction with fewer aftereffects, but nevertheless, the spell had the desired results. Blazing’s magical outburst was dwindling. Sombra sensed rage towards himself from the stallion. This helped fuel his dark magic in overpowering the twerp.

“That’s more like it. Thank you for entertaining my need for a challenge. Violent surprises always spice up my line of work. Your contribution towards our cause will be much appreciated.”

“Ya ain’t taking em anywhere ya scoundrel!”

Applejack emerged from behind a flaming tree and lassoed King Sombra, bringing him towards a diving Rainbow Dash flying at near jet speeds, while Pinkie Pie appeared out of nowhere, smacking the surprised stallion in the face with a pie. This only enraged Sombra, who responded with a shockwave sending back anypony in the vicinity and began ordering Blazing to light his newest friends ablaze.

It was at that time that Fluttershy, one of the most timid mares in Ponyville, decided to stomp on a rain cloud and unleash a downpour. Rarity, also present, slipped in behind Blazing and levitated him away from the action, much to his frustration. He lost concentration on his spell and failed to fulfill his master’s orders.

Sombra tried to gain control of each of the elements individually but was being hit from so many angles that it was hard to focus on one specific target.

“I see Twilight wasn’t able to join you for the fun this time. You won’t be able to overcome my power with just five of you... Not even all six of the elements would be enough. You won’t be as lucky as last time we met.” With this, King Sombra created a crystalline shield just as Dash was coming in for another swoop, which also served to cut through Applejack’s rope. Dash had to thrust her wings hard to avoid crashing right into the barrier, and Sombra began transforming back into shadow form to show these pests what they deserved for getting in the way a second time.

“Let’s play.”

The green glow in Sombra’s eyes began to turn into dozens of snakes slithering towards the grounded earth ponies, and Flutershy’s stare was proving ineffective at suppressing the magically crafted creatures. Pinkie Pie fired her party cannon at the nearest snake, but it didn’t take long for her to be overwhelmed as it wrapped around her, seeping into her fur and bringing her under the King's control. “Ah reckon Celestia should be here soon with some of her guard, but I ain’t so sure we can keep Sombra at bay for much longer. He’s got more fight, and smarts in em then a whip,” Applejack said to Rainbow as she smashed one of the magical constructs under hoof.

“I’m not sure your honesty is going to help much here either” Rainbow responded, as she dodged a blast from Pinkie Pie’s party cannon.

During all this, Fluttershy was trying to figure out what to do from her aerial position, because she never was a mare to lower herself to using brute force. As she hovered overhead, Sombra unleashed a volley of spiked black crystal at her, that was near impossible to dodge. Although she avoided many, her attempt was futile, as one struck her in the right wing, causing her to plummet and crash, nearly impacting into Applejack.

“Rarity, can you create a beacon of light with your horn so that Sombra’s shadow form has less room to maneuver?!”

“I simply don’t know, Dash. I don’t practice that kind of magic... but I’ll try!” Before Rarity could attempt a light spell, Blazing began glowing a brilliant white, permeating the forest with enough light to bring day into the darkest night.

“What in tarnation?” Applejack was the only one to speak, while everyone else just stared. Sombra’s serpentine constructs melted away, and he had to return to his physical form, for the light was burning through his shadow form. It was unlike anything known to Equestria. Despite all the adrenaline in the air, the scene stopped everyone in their tracks. The royal chariots, and Pegasus guards had also arrived during this bout of confusion, but they were blinded by the light.

The rays focused like a beacon directed right at Sombra, creating a light show in the middle of the dense forest. When the light hit its target, it began wrestling with darkness coming right out of Sombra’s head. His screams filled the air, and the curses he shouted would have ruined any virgin ears. His skin looked as if it was burning away in places from the sheer power behind the blast.

Pinkie decided to take this moment to come back to her senses. “What did I miss?! You have to invite me to the light show!”

Suddenly, Sombra vanished from view, exerting the last of his stamina on a long-range teleport. For most unicorns, that in itself is a taxing endeavor, but given the circumstances, the task could have been five times harder.

The light slowly began to fade, and the forest was left uncomfortably quiet. The only lights were coming from a few stray fires, the royal guard, the moon, and Celestia. The Princess was second to none at taking command of any situation, but even she was silenced upon Sombra’s disappearance.

“If that demon shows himself again, he will be in a world of regret.” Blazing fell on his haunches. “I know what you’re thinking: friendship is the key to harmony... but that guy is a few hundred miles past sane. I think I need trauma therapy.”

‘30 minutes prior‘

When Celestia received an urgent message from her former student at such an odd hour, she was taken by surprise, however her composure remained tact. When it became apparent that Twilight was compromised, and Spike had sent the warning, she was holding in her rage amongst her servants, but wanted to scream at the top of her lungs.

Dispatching a portion of a solar guard unit was an immediate priority. Celestia turned to her nearest bodyguard and said in her royal Canterlot voice, “Stone Wall, inform commander Storm that an apparent threat is in Ponyville. I want his best two platoons to accompany me to investigate, help Twilight, and confront any hostile creatures.”

“At once, Your Majesty”

I have a feeling if Twilight’s eyes are truly green, and she is oblivious to everything, then somepony I hoped wouldn’t show their face again is wreaking havoc. Sombra... if you hurt Twilight, I will deposit you in a Tartarus cell next to Lord Tirek.

Spike knew as soon as Twilight came in that something was amiss. Her demeanor was off, her eyes seemed discolored, and her voice was missing some of its fluctuations. When she told Spike not to worry about Blazing and his magic practice, Spike felt like his ears were blowing smoke (and maybe they were). He wanted to keep an eye on her, but also needed to send a warning to Celestia, to notify her of Twilight’s strange behavior.

“If Blazing did something I’m gonna... ah forget it. I need to send a message to Applejack as well. She would know what to do. Going outside alone could be my own death wish for all I know.”

“Twilight, I think you should take a nap.”

“I don’t need a nap.”

“Well... I’m sorry in advance.” Spike took this moment to grab a loose crystal from the castle wall and banged it over Twilight Sparkle’s head. “I wouldn’t be the best number one assistant if I couldn’t save you from yourself, right? Ok now parchment, and ink... parchment and ink. Here we are.” He labeled the top “urgent” in big letters and began scribbling out a message.

Dear Princess Celestia,

Twilight is possessed. She came in from magic lessons alone, spoke in a monotone, and had a green hue around her eyes. Please send some help. Who knows what’s outside our castle right now, and what kind of magic potential they have. Blazing is either in grave danger or has a lot of explaining to do.

Spike

Just as soon as he sent the message to the Princess via his magical fire, he grabbed another sheet, and wrote a note to Applejack.

Applejack,

Twilight is under someponies spell, and I need you to buck them into tomorrow for me.

Spike

Spike shrugged. “Ah what can I say... I got the message across right?”

White Tail Woods
‘Present’

“Blazing, where is Twilight? Why did Sombra attack? What did ya do?!”

“Hold your horses there Applejack... Actually, just give me a minute... I guess that phrase probably sounds kinda rude.” Blazing took a deep breath and let out a sigh. “I believe Twilight should be safe with Spike, assuming she didn’t do anything to him before I knocked out Sombra’s control. As for who attacked, all I know is that he is collaborating with others, and I was his intended target. As for what I did... let’s just say I lit a candle in a dark room, and light tends to permeate darkness rather quickly.” Blazing scratched the back of his head with his hoof.

“Thank you all for coming to help. I think you slowed him down just enough and, Your Majesty, thank you for your quick response even though the situation has been resolved.”

“You’re quite welcome my little pony. The future is still unclear, but for now I will be posting my top-ranking solar guard members on watch duty around the outskirts of Ponyville. It is deeply disturbing that Sombra has worked up the courage to strike again after losing so badly last time, and even more worrisome that he’s not working alone. I can only imagine what is being conspired. Nevertheless, our senses should be on high alert, and I would appreciate a strong communication network much like today. Speaking of which, I think we have all had enough fun here. Storm, if you would please coordinate your troops into different watch parties, and escort Blazing back to the Twilight's castle for questions you can have the rest of the night off. I will go with the Elements to check on Twilight’s as well as Spike’s safety myself. The sooner we can ensure everyponies okay and get a better understanding of what we’re dealing with the better.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty... it will be done.”

Everyone was sitting around the table in the meeting room where the cutie map stays trying to debrief with warm tea. Blazing and Celestia in particular were having the hardest times relaxing, though Celestia wasn’t showing that outwardly.

“Before I start from the beginning and explain to you my point of view on the last hour, can somebody please explain why this map has Twilight’s cutie mark on it, and is pinpointing our location?”

“If anyone owes you that explanation it’s me...” Twilight began, now thankfully not under the control of Sombra, and showing few side effects from it. “I should have told you sooner, but when I brought you here, I was intending to use a spell designed to help find someone who had never experienced what true friendship looks like. I needed more power for its radius to reach beyond the limits of my mana pool, but it unexpectedly generated a rift that reached well beyond my limits.

What I failed to mention was that, when you arrived, the cutie map indicated that my next mission was to be in Canterlot, right when and where you happened to enter Equestria. This map usually helps the elements of Harmony solve conflicts and leads us to people in need of our services. Whether that be in the form of advice, love, or a helping hoof. The missions are often exclusively large-scale events that could greatly impact peace and harmony in the future.”

“So, am I to assume our friendship was entirely planned by this map? That you bringing me in, and giving me so many things unconditionally was only to fulfill some kind of mission? It was all fake?!“ exclaimed Blazing.

“No! Of course not! You are a special pony, and I’m glad to have met you, but I feel terrible for keeping this from you. A true friend wouldn’t hide things that could affect the other pony in a positive or negative way. I’m sorry Blazing.”

“Ugh... I want to be angry, but we will deal with this later! For now we need to figure out what these conspirators are planning, and why I’m involved.”

“Well put” Celestia began. “Twilight I’m glad you have had a chance to learn this lesson, even if it took poor circumstances to bring this forward. Your wisdom precedes you Blazing. With that out of the way, can you recount the events surrounding your attempted kidnapping? Please try to recall all details you can remember, and Stone Wall, I would like you to take notes and report anything of use to Silver Storm.

Blazing began to recount things exactly as he had seen, with the elements occasionally speaking up to confirm specific details. It wasn’t until he began to explain how he broke free from Sombra’s control that everypony was intently listening, trying to comprehend the brilliant flashes of light they had witnessed.

“When Sombra’s magic reached out to me, and began to manipulate my senses, I could feel his presence in my head. It was like being in a state of lucid dreaming, but also having an out of body experience. As he directed me to cause harm, I felt like I was gaining a true understanding of dark magic in those moments. It was diluting my mana streams, and looked like shadows we’re dancing through me, which was quite a disturbing thing to be aware of. I’m not completely sure how I overpowered him, but the closest thing I got is I diverted his magic into the darkness of the night sky by pulling on his connection to my head and reverse engineering a telekinesis spell to manifest light in my mana pathways to basically smoke out his influence on me. From there I just shifted my control of mana to the very top of my horn, amplified my output to create what I envisioned as a magnifying glass under the sun, and funneled it towards Sombra.”

Everyone in the room was speechless. The strange explanation seemed even too difficult for Twilight to manage.

“So how did you guys find me in the middle of White Tail Woods?”

“Well I reckon it would be a might bit underwhelming compared to that. We just heard ya yelling’ and followed the smoke once ya started to burn the forest down.”

“I would tell you to not burn the little critters of the forest's homes, but, um, we did find you, and got the fire put out, so I guess it worked ok,” Fluttershy half whispered.

“Twilight, I think I’m going to take a personal day tomorrow if you don’t mind.”

“No, I don’t mind, but I want to know more about how you became so in tune with your mana pathways! You’ve only had them a little over a week, and you already are... well I don’t even know the full extent of it!”

"When we resume, you can probably teach me some more complex magical lessons, so I’m looking forward to it. Although if we could avoid any life-threatening events along the way, for the sake of my mental health, that would be great."

“Anybody got any ideas on what dreadful individuals Sombra was referring to when he said ‘us’?” Rarity asked.

At this Princess Celestia frowned. “I fear that he could only work with someone else if he felt they were also a formidable opponent; someone who could give him the upper edge. This leads me to believe we should prepare for some of the worst criminals known to planet Equus, if we want to be ahead of the unknown variables that they present.

I pray that, for our sake, Sombra isn’t just the beginning.”

Author's Note

I haven’t had this chapter edited yet, but I felt that since I have taken so long, I wanted to get it out now rather than later. Hope you enjoy, and I promise to fix grammatical issues in the near future.
Update: Chapter has bene edited of most grammatical errors. Enjoy!

Chapter 15: The First Choice

~ April 17th, 1020 ME ~

‘Late Evening‘

Upon arriving back to Equestria, I was in no mood to go anywhere and the floor was comfortable enough to curl up on and die within myself. I was so close to being... well... me again. Yet the one that stole a part of my life the first time had the audacity to do it again, while teasing me with the possibility of returning to Earth; a return to normalcy. I mind my own business and get punished for something I didn't do... to be fair that does sound like Jesus paying the price for the forgiveness of others, but I just need a degree so I can get a job and settle down. An adventure is one thing, but trying to adapt to an entirely new everything makes doing nothing very appealing.

Everypony was standing around waiting for something to happen, or for Blazing to share whatever important news he held. The last pony anyone expected to speak up was Fluttershy, yet she was the first to address Blazing. "I will make sure Discord knows better than leaving you in such a state the next time we share tea... you look awful."

"I just lost my world for a second time..."

"What was that sugarcube?" Applejack asked

"Discord stole everything... twice."

The elements of harmony looked very confused by this revelation, but Pinkie Pie being the way she is gasped by the sudden accusation.

"He told us there was some important news we needed to relay to the other princesses, but he never said it had anything to do with him. He turned himself in and wanted you to tell us?" Twilight questioned.

"That's hardly the full truth. No... he took me to a place on Earth, shared vague information that could very well be a lie, and turned me back into my human self. To make matters worse he brought me back here to rub it back in my face how little control I have. Discord took credit for making your spell act in the way it did, Twilight. Seemingly he altered it to affect me because I'm somehow important for the future of Equus. Something major is being written by the strings of fate, and I have the potential to alter the course of history. "

"Hold on that doesn't make much sense... Chaos magic is hardly ever permanent, but so little is known about how it infuses with the different magical consistencies. Magic essentially has different frequencies, but the effects of chaos magic especially on transformation are only temporary. As far as him returning you to human, its hardly likely that he altered your current DNA which of course I still haven't researched compared to a pony born as a unicorn, but he is also implying that he somehow knows the future... Time travel has hardly been perfected in the forward direction and barely works backwards without creating loops and paradoxes, and not even Starswirl the bearded cou-"

"Twilight you're making my brain hurt just processing the fact that these theoretical concepts exist. Can we slow down for a minute? I still haven't recovered from Discord yet, and I'm not sure I ever will."

"Well regardless if you have the strength we should still head to Canterlot to inform the princesses of whatever else Discord said, and stay for a few days for your safety. The capitol seems like a better place for you to be right now after what happened last night."

"Don't remind me. I can't think about all the events of the last few days at once, because each new day is crazy enough in itself. Do I get any say in this?"

"What do you propose as an alternative?"

"As much as I just want to sit here wallowing in my sorrow... I got nothing. Whether Discord was lying or not, you guys deserve to know what to prepare for. I'll go... but that means I will either need a place to sit alone and let out my frustrations, or I will need lots of ice cream."

"That can be arranged."

'Princess Celestia'

I decided to adjourn day court early when I received a letter from Twilight that Discord abducted Blazing. For when Chaos was on the move, even a reformed version of said being, it becomes necessary to expect the unexpected. Which is exactly why it came as no surprise that the Elements were on the way to the capitol.

"Sunflower can you please send for my sister to be awoken early today for a meeting with the Element bearers. If there's any resistance, inform her I will cover her early morning duties tomorrow."

"Yes your majesty."

It's about time I prepare the Crystal Empire for high alert. If we need any backup from Princess Cadance or Shining Armour in the north it would be better if it wasn't a surprise. I'm sure Twilight hasn't seen her brother in far too long, and we could use a military leader such as Prince Shining in a time like this. Of course they have a family now so perhaps it's better we don't put on the full stress all at once...

"Your majesty."

"What is it Commander Storm?"

"Our troops stationed in the cities of Baltimare, Manehattan, and Vanhoover have detected a higher presence of Changelings within the city. The spells we use to monitor since the last invasion have been used to keep tabs on their presence in public areas. However, it seems strange for any spike to happen unless far more Changelings have joined the independent Hives to live amongst the populous. Your majesty, Captain Silver Shield thinks some of these may be some of Queen Chrysalis' drones, as they are unidentified and they continue to blend in with no way to distinguish them from another pony."

"And what do you think?"

"I would have to agree with him princess. The Changeling resistance against Chrysalis' leadership is far too small to amount to this."

"And what of Canterlot? No reports from the local patrols?"

“Nothing of concern your majesty. Things are surprisingly quiet, although the citizens are a little unsettled by the higher levels of guards. They know something is going on."

"That is rather disturbing news... Commander inform the captain to interrogate Changelings in those areas for any information they can get, and incarcerate any found to be a part of the Queens hive for trespassing in Equestrian cities until further notice. Sombra's on the move, and if the reports you have are true, Chrysalis is not far behind."

"At once your majesty."

My commander never lies to me... but either he left something out of that report, or Canterlot is not as it seems. As Celestia was running through her thoughts in the near empty throne room aside from a few stationed guards, she was startled by a sudden voice right behind her.

"Alright Tia, what is it that had to pull me from my slumber this time? We presume it is connected to the events of last night?" Luna walked up beside Celestia looking surprisingly more alert than normal. Usually when she was awoken in the middle of the day she would remain grouchy for a few hours, but she must have sensed the potential urgency of the situation.

"Sister the Elements of Harmony are on the way with Blazing Waters. It would seem Discord has been hiding things from us for a reason that escapes me. From Twilight's letter it sounds like Blazing has yet again had his life significantly altered. Whatever Discords motivation may be, I'm also concerned with the potential threat of Queen Chrysalis' hive. Commander Storm informed me that we have detected more Changelings on the move, but I think they are closer to home than the reported cities. We may need to screen our staff again so we don't have anything similar to Cadance's wedding."

"Nay sister, after what we did to Chrysalis last time I doubt she will be back anytime soon. Perhaps you are a little paranoid from all the years with the crown hmm?"

"I am not, sister! But I am willing to take any precautions necessary to protect my little ponies, and at the moment I don't even know if they are safe from themselves; safe from those closest to them."

"For being a peaceful land since my return from the moon perhaps you should consider taking a diplomatic approach to all this as opposed to using the guard to assert control."

"That is much easier to say if we knew who we were dealing with, and you know as well as I do that sometimes progress comes at a cost. Difficult choices are the hardest to make, but they can have the biggest impact."

"Perhaps, but they are not without repercussions as you are no doubt aware of Celestia."

Alone... I don't even want to think about that lonely leadership period... How did I survive without her... "Alright Luna I will default to you until after the meeting tonight, in which we will get the insight of more ponies to decide what direction our future course of actions is to take." Informed decisions seem like the easiest to make, but in reality they can very well make things even more difficult, because there is always a consequence.

"Princess Twilight, you are expected. You may enter. Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna will be waiting for you in the throne room." As the group began to enter the castle the guard lowered his spear in front of their path startling all but Applejack. "Your company however must wait outside."

"Now hold on just one moment you private who looks like every other guard around here! The Princesses are expecting all of us, and if you don't think we will go to another entrance just so we can find a guard that's been properly informed, you've got another thing coming. Either we all go or none of us do!" Rainbow Dash loudly exclaimed.

"Rainbow Dash! I know you're loyal to friends, but that was quite rude to this poor stallion who has been standing in front of this door all day! Excuse me sir, if you could please give us entry, or ask a higher up about our presence being necessary that would be darling." said Rarity.

"My apologies ladies, I simply am told to take extra precautions due to Changeling threats. If you would just let me scan you momentarily you can be on your way." The guard lit up his horn and began casting what appeared to be a detection spell, but Twilight being the element of magic could feel something fishy, as she knew how to use the scanning spell personally and this wasn't it. Should she say something now, or inform the princesses later? Maybe she should let one of the guards know in the inner corridors... or maybe...

"Hey since you so kindly double checked that we're not changelings, you wouldn't mind if I checked your magical signature would you?"

"Not at all Princess Twilight, but that really shouldn't be necessary."

"It will just take a second. Just honoring the security measures and all right?"

"Certainly, your majesty, but I'm actually about to go off duty for the day so habanero will be taking over soon. Perhaps if I could take a rain check?"

"Don't worry this will only take a second!" Twilight scanned the guard and tried to hide a face of being uncomfortable. "In fact, since your post is about to be taken, would you be willing to escort us to the Princesses? We can never be too careful right?"

"Actually it's my time to leave!"

His horn powered up and he summoned smoke at the ground. Rainbow Dash took quick action to disperse the smoke with her wings, but when the smoke cleared he was gone.

"There's no way that changeling was strong enough to teleport himself. I should have just played that cool and went to get someone else to handle the situation, before I made it obvious I knew of the trickery." Just as Twilight finished saying that a group of guards ran out of the front entrance and began to question the group . It turns out Habanero was the next one on shift, but not for a few more hours, and the one that had supposedly been stationed at the gate was West Front.

"So much for heightened security" Blazing whispered under his breath.

'Princess Celestia'

Composure. Keep your composure. It's just a bad day. It could always be worse. There's just one Changeling infiltrating your staff, and we are aware of the situation right? Sometimes keeping a serene composed smile was tough. Especially when it felt as if the world was out to get you, which in some cases it was. Twilight had just finished giving an overview of their encounter at the palace gates, and word was traveling fast through the staff and guard to conduct testing to ensure there were no more impostors among them. It seemed as though things were going from bad to worse, but Blazing had yet to share his perspective on the day's events, and Celestia was really starting to think the chocolate ice cream he was feasting on looked good.

"Disregard my words from earlier about diplomacy sister... no one will get away with impersonating and kidnapping our staff with so little regard for the ponies they might hurt. The way we see it the Queen has officially declared war on the nation."

"Just as you encouraged me not to be rash Luna, I will tell you that we must be careful and patient with our actions. Rushing into things could leave us more vulnerable and exposed. The ones targeting us are too coordinated and direct. Its not a coincidence that we keep running into trouble. Our attention is being split."

"Celestia, you sound like a military general the way you are talking. What are you proposing?" Twilight queried.

"We aren't left with many options... it could come down to forcing the enemy's hand to see more of their cards. As much as I don't like it, and I fear the turmoil it could cause, we need to inform allied countries of a possible war so that we can out supply any foe and assert our control over the situation."

"Princess Celestia I may know something revolving around this... I don't like it any more than you will, but you deserve to know. The information I have is part of the reason I was forced to be here after all in more ways than one."

"You will be commended for your service to the crown."

"Yeah actually sending me home would be better, but here goes nothing. This morning someone you are quite familiar with, the Lord of Chaos, Discord, stole me from my coffee taking me to a place on Earth... a place I would no doubt recognize I might add. I thought his antics would be the worst part of the situation, but it turns out that he altered Twilight's spell that brought me here with Chaos magic. I was very confused during this encounter because he turned me back into a human for the conversation, but as you can imagine I was very pissed to receive this news. I had been told that there was intent behind my arrival to a different universe..."

Blazing telekinetically took another massive scoop of his ice cream before continuing.

"I didn't really know what to think, but I couldn't do much because I was essentially immobilized on top of a statue. The news that followed was what has the biggest impact on your world, but I'm hesitant to share because of what it could mean for me... Discord acted as though he had seen possible futures. He told me that Equestria had almost no chance of ending up in a good state without my arrival, but I somehow... assuming he wasn't making up a bunch of bs... have increased the likelihood of Equestria remaining somewhat normal by 10x. From a 5% chance to a 50% chance. He didn't mention exactly what you ponies would have to deal with, so I didn't believe him... but now considering what happened yesterday, and all the talk about Changelings, I can at least accept that things aren't looking so great for you guys right now. Since Discord brought me here however, I'm hoping he can return me home for good, because I see no reason why I could make any difference in a war between individuals with so much power as you Princess'."

Celestia responded, "and what do you fear sharing this information could mean for you Blazing?"

"That you wouldn't make Discord send me home. That you would use me as a device for your agenda."

"I see no reason why we have led you to believe us to be of that character. If it is your wish to return back to your world, the place you call America then so be it. I will not be the one to stop you."

“Nor I" Luna stated, using the proper pronoun.

The elements looked at each other and there was no debate. "We would be sorry to see you go, but friends do what's best for each other, so we will honor you doing what you feel is the right course of action. We will also feel happy for you knowing that you are home." Twilight spoke on behalf of her friends, although visibly showing a hint of sadness in doing so.

"I expected this to be a lot harder for me to bear, with more resistance. You guys are something special, you know that? I can see why you've come to embody aspects of friendship."

"So that's it then? Nothing else to share from Discord?" Pinkie asked.

"Well there was one more thing... he talked about destiny forming ties to ponies cutie marks. He said that by earning one myself I have a link with this world. Something about representing a choice and a destiny. He also said that may have to do with why I was targeted. My assumption is that he already knows about Sombra. He said they are afraid of my ability to control my own destiny. I know this sounds strange but it kind of felt like all of the storms and natural disasters represented by the elements in my cutie mark make me a surprise... something that can appear at a moment's notice."

"Blazing most people spend their whole life trying to figure out the entirety of their cutie mark and their identity, but you have just thrown out this possibility in a week! That's incredible!" Twilight announced excitedly.

"I find it cool as well, but I don't intend to keep it around once I return. It may be a bit out of place. Speaking of which If you are giving me the choice in this matter, I can be returned to a human when I return right?"

"I'm sure we can make sure Discord follows through with that transformation, however I don't know if his chaos magic would be permanent in reversing your species, but we will find a solution. We still don't completely know the depths of the complex transfiguration magic that altered you to become a unicorn." Celestia replied.

"Oh... That would be a bit of a problem."

"I think you look nice in this form, I'm sure other humans wouldn't mind as well." Fluttershy said encouragingly.

"Oh no. Nope! No way! I most definitely will not become a part of a research project on alien biology! I would never fit into society like this."

"It would be quite difficult but I find myself to be quite proficient in transformative spells, I could likely assist in the process if I knew what you looked like." Luna commented

"Likely? Something about that doesn't sound very encouraging."

"Discord, stop eavesdropping, and join this conversation. You need to explain yourself anyway."

"Aw Celly, how did you know of my presence?"

"Don't call me that Discord. I could sense your ambient energy. You leave a large trail of it floating around. You also make a point to be in the know. When I have an important meeting I can assume you are there uninvited."

"Hah I wouldn't dare go to some of your meetings! They're sooooo BORING! I can't see how you can put up with some of those diplomats and stuffy nobles."

"What do you THINK you're doing here after what you DID to me! You never even apologized. I try to love my enemies and forgive those who persecute me... but you have crossed a line Discord. You tortured me with false hope."

"Perhaps it was a little too strong of a joke for you to handle, but everything I said was important, and you have done a fantastic job relaying it all despite not offering me any ice cream, but that is forgivable as I have some cotton candy in here somewhere..."

"You call that a JOKE-"

"PLEASE... stop bickering when there may be lives at stake. We will make this right. Discord first order of business... Can you send Blazing home, and make him a human?" Celestia questioned urgently

"Sort of..."

"No hinting around the subject can you or can you not reverse the physical changes you have brought to Blazing that have brought him trauma."

"It is not easy to do, but with the help of Alicorn level magic I can. I can complete the cross dimensional teleportation with ease, but I cannot return him to being human permanently without pony magic. However, I don't think you realize what's at stake, and reversing this will also require a tremendous amount of power."

"It doesn't matter. Blazing should get to decide. Since the day he arrived he has hardly had a choice. Although many things are at stake, and my ponies are my main priority, his life is not mine to use for my will. It is his free will, and I will allow him to use it."

After this comment everybody was expecting Blazing to make the choice he had practically already made. He was ready to go home. All he had to do was say the word. Everypony began staring at Blazing expectantly.

Was Celestia actually standing up for him? The one to raise the sun of Equus was giving him the choice to return home and possibly seal Equestria's fate if Discord was to be believed. It was so strange… He had no doubts that home is where he would much rather be. Comfortably laying on his bed right now catching up on his YouTube subscriptions and classes, preparing to graduate, as well as filling his time with books, growing his faith, and abusing technology. All in all it was some pretty low key ways to spend his time in a fast paced Earthen society. Wow Earthen sounds so strange when you reference it from a different planet. He was strongly in favor of getting this over with and going straight home to let all these crazy ponies deal with their own problems. 'Yet these crazy ponies cared for him...' 'no don't get compassionate now...' 'remain sensible, you don't belong here.' 'This isn't home!' 'But home will still be waiting.' 'Yes but I may not be able to get another opportunity if I stay.'

Blazing's mind was internally fighting with himself over what to do. The obvious choice was home... but if more than one individual suffered because of that would he feel guilty? Would he be able to forget? If things are worse for me but I'm able to bless others is it worth it? At what cost is it too great? Would I be trying to prove something? To meet some kind of standard? At this point his thoughts were becoming too much to bear and he just wanted to let out a yell of frustration but instead he took a deep breath counting to five while the anticipation in the room continued to build.

Finally Blazing spoke, "Would I still be granted passage home if I was here for a few weeks until things settle down a little bit?"

This question came out of left field, and nobody had been expecting it. Celestia handled the response. "Our doors are always open and as long as we're still around, we will mend the damage we caused you at any time."

"Good... and don't think this has anything to do with pleasing you Discord because it doesn't, but I'm going to hang around and stand up for my new... friends. I may not be willing to do whatever it takes, but I care about more than myself, so I will serve the crown until further notice... for the people of Equestria... no for the ponies of Equestria!

Also this feels like it should be in a movie, and I know you don't have those, but this will make an entertaining story when I go back. Got to be honest it's never about the reward, but if things do turn out well I wouldn't mind a few gems to take home as well."

Perhaps not the most noble request I've ever made, but screw it... I'm staying here for some stupid reason, so I might as well get the best of it!

"Also be careful what you say around me, because with the way my thoughts are processing right now that could very well change my mind!"

"Very well... we can accommodate this request. Now we must address the possibility of more changelings roaming the castle. Luna, what do you propose we do to monitor our subjects more closely?" Celestia turned the conversation in order to not damage a touchy subject.

The meeting continued like this, discussing issues and possible plans to resolve problems. Many letters were sent every which way from notifying allies, to sending commands to soldiers, and requesting the presence of Cadance and Shining Armor. Ultimately everypony was experiencing some of the same thoughts at the end of the night. The gist of it was: Please don't let us regret any of our decisions; for everypony knew the effects of their actions would be felt far and wide... for better or for worse.

Chapter 16: Escalation

~ April 18th, 1020 ME ~

‘Sunrise‘

"Thank you for joining me on such short notice this morning Blazing. I do apologize for waking you from your slumber ahead of the sun, but I feel as though this private conversation is necessary."

"It is what it is, Princess."

"That as it may be, I requested your presence mainly to warn you and prepare you. While I'm indebted to you for putting others' needs in front of your own, I must confess how dangerous this could become and the risks we are all taking together.

Late last night I had a vision concerning another unknown. Some of the worst beings known to this universe are kept in the most highly advanced prison known as Tartarus. While it's almost impossible for anything to break out, it also only has one way in. Its location on the far side of the Gryphon empire makes communications run short. I foresaw a messenger flying across the sea away from the entrance only to be shot out of the sky with an orange beam that pierced his wing. He was headed away from the gates of Tartarus, but instead of having our Equestrian patrol posted at them, they were smoking with holes straight through their core. There's no telling when this happened, but now that I have been made aware I can only assume Tirek is free from his shackles. He is capable of sapping the magic of other creatures, and given enough time unopposed he will become an unstoppable force. Not to mention he is one of the most ruthless creatures known to planet Equus; a Centaur. He will take the magic from a pony dead or alive. Whichever is easiest."

"Princess I know you didn't wake me up early just to scare me and give me nightmares. Why are you telling me this?"

"Tirek is known for being calculated and weighing up his enemy's strength so that he always has the upper hand. I know you hardly know any magic yet, but I sense great potential and so little time. I pray that he will not be ready for the things we have up our sleeves."

"What could I possibly do?"

"Train... Prepare to fight. It hasn't been the equestrian way for centuries, but to do nothing would be a far greater loss. Use today to understand your strengths as well as that of the elements, and lead them well."

"WHAT?! Why would you ask me to lead?! Twilight is a princess for crying out loud, and the ELEMENT OF MAGIC! What could I possibly offer that she couldn't? She's educated, powerful, and familiar with this world."

"She may be many things and my most accomplished pupil, but she still is too reliant on books without trusting her own senses. She has never let me down before, but you have courage, and a different set of strategic knowledge from your home world. You are more capable than you give yourself credit for. You also seem to have harmony on your side; you've begun learning a new kind of magic in the last few days, befriended the elements, stood up to an Ursa, and lived in a world capable of thriving without magic. Equestria needs you, will you accept the responsibility?"

This extensive dialogue was followed by a long drawn out pause. Anticipation filled the cool spring air as the sun began to peak its way over the horizon.

"I don't think I'm qualified or ready, but you have a number of years on me so I will defer to your judgment. However, while I did say that I would stay behind to help, I didn't plan on doing so just so I could confront death, and you are not making me think well of my choice. Regardless, I will do my best... I just hope you know what you're doing."

So do I... At this Princess Celestia began raising the sun creating a colorful sunrise in the presence of our off-world guest and reassured him by telling a story.

"Many centuries ago, just after the great war that left me to rule alone while Nightmare Moon was in her 1000-year banishment, a mare was born with levels of magic not unlike Twilight, but magic schools were lacking in knowledge of her strange gift. She was called Winter Storm by her parents because when she was only a few months old, she caused a mini blizzard inside of their house with a magical surge from her tiny horn. Her parents panicked thinking it was the return of Wendigos and came to me very startled by the events. Over time other parts of the environment started bending around their daughter causing great fear and unrest around friends and family. I took her in as my youngest ever student at the age of 3. She went on to discover the near dead research of unicorns controlling the natural elements similar to how a Pegasus might. Despite the fact that she died a hero for stopping the dragons from attacking Equestria, her legacy and magic has been nearly forgotten. There have only been 2 others with this power over the years, but none that have been able to control every element, nor teach their abilities to other unicorns. Even Winter lacked the ability to manipulate every element having no control over the element of fire. You have this power, and it's up to you to decide how far you will take it and determine what you can harness."

"Celestia if I may be so Bold... and forgive me of my ignorance, but if you've lived for so long, how have you not mastered this magic or introduced it as a required bit of learning for prestigious unicorns?"

"That Blazing has everything to do with the Cutie mark. While I can summon the fires of the sun, and beams of light capable of stealing others' vision, it is not within my realm of expertise to command the wind and waves nor the rain or snow. It is also theorized that this type of magic is highly runic in nature and thus the most difficult to master. Runes have been a mystery ever since they were discovered on the walls of ancient pony civilization.

Now, the day awaits, and I need to begin preparing the people of Equestria. While little has appeared in any newspapers about the change in guard activity there is no doubt some unrest I need to handle among my little ponies. Especially the Nobles" she muttered under her breath. "Blazing this may seem short notice but take this medallion and wear it where others can see it. When they see my crest, they will know they can trust you. It will provide you high security clearance and minor command over lower ranking guards. As I said you are to work alongside the elements, those of your cutie mark and of harmony."

"Thank you Celestia, I won't let you down."

Blazing left the balcony leaving Celestia to her thoughts. She contemplated if she had done the right thing. The biggest concern was how much trust she was putting in Discord, as he instigated much of the things that she was to say during the discussion. Strangely, the only part that Discord didn't instruct her to do was give him the pendant. While she hadn't bestowed a Celestial seal in centuries, she somehow sensed that Blazing was pure in heart. From the little time they spent together he seemed thoughtful, and good willed, but perhaps a little rash. He wasn't the best candidate in the department of villain reformation (convincing evil to pursue a greater good), but he seemed determined to make difficult decisions for the sake of what needed to be done. Before they talked, she felt the most uncertain she had ever been in regard to the responsibility she was giving out, but now a little reassurance washed over her. The unknowns are daunting, but I don't have to face them alone.

Following breakfast Twilight accompanied Blazing into the training grounds to help him experiment with his abilities. The elements of harmony had been quite surprised to recognize Celestia's royal seal around his neck and they gawked while considering its implications. They would recognize it anywhere from the lessons in school, but to see it in person was entirely different.

In the meantime, Celestia went off to hold day court for the last time before she would close it until the threat passed. She had thought best to optimize her availability to instigate and save court until convening wouldn't come in the way of national security.

The rest of the elements spent the morning practicing their skills while worrying about the things they were missing back home. Pinkie didn't mind however, since she found the kitchen... or perhaps the kitchen found her.

Out on the field recruits were running laps, while Twilight and Blazing were in a more remote corner by a set of test dummies. Before they began practicing Blazing took the opportunity to ask a burning question that he hoped wouldn't be offensive.

"Twilight if your specialty is magic, why is it that you haven't tried elemental magic?"

"Because until I met you, it was believed to be fictitious to cast such spells. Every time I've studied the topic, researchers have always concluded that ancient ponies believed in higher powers that could accomplish this, but never that the ponies themselves controlled nature this way."

"Huh... now you got me curious about mythology but we should save that for another day. Although it still seems strange... Celestia seems like the type to encourage more ponies to pursue this type of magic. You don't think she's hiding something from me, do you?"

"It's hard to say, but I have no doubts she has the best interest of yourself and others in mind. Ever since becoming a princess I've realized that it's impossible to please everypony. I've accepted that Celestia won't confide everything in me like I once thought."

"Well time is short so I'll ask her about it later. For now I'm going to warm up this area by trying to recreate some fire."

"Hold on I want to document this, Spike can you get a parchment and quill? Spike?"

"You left him to take care of the Castle, remember?"

"Oh yes, how could I forget? I suppose I will just summon some from my emergency backup supply then. Alright Blazing don't mind me, I'll just be taking readings to make sure nothing gets out of hand and to see if I can break down the spell matrix that has seemingly programmed itself inside of you."

At that Blazing closed his eyes and concentrated on his mana reserves as Twilight had taught him. He tried to feel the leylines and direct the flow into his horn to prep the energy that he would need to convert into his spell. He had only practiced one other time just learning very basic techniques, yet it felt so natural. From his physics lesson he knew that energy could be released as heat, but then again magic doesn't exactly fit into most of the physics theory he studied. Regardless, once he felt he had channeled his mana and could feel sufficient amounts at the front of his skull, he opened his eyes and arced his horn in the delta shape he had formulated earlier. However, this time before he closed off the shape he turned towards a dummy.

They had a stare off as they looked at each other, but just as it looked like Blazing was going to be the first to blink, he closed off the Greek symbol and the material was incinerated. Rather than traveling as a wave of fire like dragons' breath the fire seemed to erupt from the ground in the same triangular shape.

"That was AMAZING! You just converted energy into fire, yet most of the activation took place outside your body. You accessed Equestrias external ley lines which 98% of magic users can't even sense."

"So you think you could do it?"

"I'm not sure. I've never seen ponies etch mana into patterns in the air like you just did. I also don't know if it has to be on air or if it can be achieved on other surfaces. Do you think it only applies to certain mediums?"

"I don't think I'm the right person to ask."

"But you're the only pony to ask!"

"Well you could always try it. I've heard from a little birdie that you like to conduct experiments."

'Somewhere else in Equestria...'

'This is why I despise working with anything in Equestria that thinks it's strength will better my cause. Stupidity of others will be my downfall.'

"I'm not so sure about that Tirek" came a strange female voice echoing off the walls of the chamber. "Yes, I can read your thoughts and your hatred towards others. You feel as though you have to control everything because others have let you down since you were a child. You also are confused and angry at me for interrupting. Who am I you might ask? Well let's just say we have a lot in common, but I've seen things you haven't even dreamt of." The female voice that permeated the room seemed to be everywhere and nowhere at the same time. It was in the walls, echoing from floor to ceiling.

"Oh, and I suppose you have something to offer me too that will fulfill my desires? I can take care of business, thank you very much! Leaving Tartarus was a breeze. I just had to wait for the opportune moment."

"FOOL!!! You think you escaped on your own pathetic strength even though you were outmatched by one Alicorn? NO! I let you out! You fall under my plans now! I will be in charge of this operation from here on out because obviously you need the master of manipulation and tact to save your sorry flank from failure. I led you to these other warlords because your ambition and pride leaves you to believe you don't need others and failure results. The one thing you can learn from your enemies is that when they work together their strength is combined.

"And what makes you think I would lend you my strength. Suggesting full on collaboration is pathetic and I haven't even had the pleasure of your name."

"Oh you will follow me, it may just take a little persuasion. After all, it's not everyday you get to converse with Nightmare, Queen of the monsters, and the most feared entity in this land. Untamed, uncontrolled, unbound I seek to regain a body. You take what you desire but leave Luna for me. I'm not going to leave any of her mind behind this time. She will host fear itself once my essence overtakes her."

"Perhaps I was wrong, Nightmare... I think we will get along." For the first time since his childhood Tirek let a smirk grace the corner of his lips.

"I assume you know the plan... will we continue on schedule?"

"In a way, however, tomorrow the Everfree awakens, and the night will no longer allow rest. Then we have a date with some ponies in Canterlot that we certainly wouldn't want to be late for... you still are prepared for the main event right? Oh and I also took the initiative of directing Chrysalis with her forces. As for Sombra... he remains a wildcard. No indication of his condition or his location has arisen, but he wouldn't miss this prime opportunity for the Crystal Empire. Regardless I'd like to pick up right where you left off. So... Let the games commence."

"Ugh! I wish I knew alchemical symbols better. This just isn't working." Blazing complained in frustration.

"Can you explain these symbols to me? Maybe I can help." Twilight questioned trying to find some way to be supportive.

"Well I can try. Basically alchemy is like chemistry except they didn't exactly have a periodic table to reference, so they made symbols that represented different things they observed. I have a theory that runes are composed of variants of these depictions, but without knowing what they look like I could never test that."

"But how did you know the symbol for fire?

"Besides the fact we use delta for math, I also know a little Greek mythology. As much as I would like to think otherwise its probably just a sheer coincidence that it worked, but it also was really easy to recall when I first experimented with it. It's like the idea just seemed natural somehow."

"That's the work of your cutie mark. You could always try reversing what you did to get the opposite effect?"

"That just seems silly. How could that ever work?"

"I just don't want us to rule out any possibilities."

"Alright just for you Twilight." Blazing began to prepare to work his mana again. This seems stupid. Magic can't be this logical. This has to be at least one in a million. One in a million? I should go put a little Equestrian money down in Vegas if this works. "Here goes nothing."

Blazing lighted his golden aura and started drawing the same triangle, only this time it was upside down in the shape of a gradient. Just as he was finishing the connection, he infused a little extra burst of mana into the spell. "Alright stand back"

"Don't worry I have a shield ready."

Following the completion of the drawing seconds ticked by and nothing was happening. Not that they knew what to expect anyway but it seemed like that idea had been a complete bust.

"Hey Twilight, was that your stomach? Maybe we should get lunch?"

"Um Blazing... that wasn't me. It had to have been you. That gurgle was so loud."

"No way it was me it must ha-"

Just then a dousing of water roughly equivalent to 50 gallons appeared in the sky right above where a certain purple Alicorn had been standing. The force was enough to knock her off her hooves due to how concentrated it had been. Water dripped from the tips of her fur, and she was completely soaked to the bone.

"Twilight! Are you ok?" Blazing asked as he galloped over to her. A group of guards heard the commotion and approached to check on the situation. Blazing was still not the most dexterous with his hoofs, so the two guards helped Twilight back to her hooves.

"Yeah it didn't hurt so much as scare the living daylights out of me. Sweet Celestia! What even was that! For that matter, why was the water warm! I need to write all of this down!" With that Twilight still soaking wet grabbed her paper and rushed back to the castle to get more ink for her quill, as the bottle she had been using had been spilled.

"Yup that's Twilight alright. Thanks for your service guards but I think she will be just fine. Maybe even better than fine if she gets to write about whatever just happened here. Oh and don't worry about cleaning up the mess I left, I’ll take care of it. You guys can get back to whatever else you've been tasked with."

"As you wish."

This response had been a little surprising, but Blazing chalked it up to the expensive jewelry around his neck. What a day it has been and it's only 9:00 in the morning! He let out a wistful sigh. Never change Twilight, never change.

Chapter 17: Awakening

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 18: Truth of War

Author's Note

This chapter really didn’t want to get done! I had to rewrite several sections that got deleted, but I’m happy with it. It could use more editing, but I really wanted to get it out today so here it is for everypony! Hope you enjoy!

If you find any major issues, let me know in the comments. Writing takes ages! Thanks!

Chapter 18: Truth of War

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘12:11A.M.‘

Celestia wasn’t often bothered during her sleep thanks in part to her sister's return, nor was she the type to be quick to annoyance (at least not outwardly). Regardless, as she was enjoying a dream filled with sunshiny skies and a lovely picnic beside her prodigious student, Twilight Sparkle, she was hit on the head with a friendship report. At least that’s what came to mind as she slowly regained consciousness realizing that the scroll hadn’t just been in her dream.

Of all the times to be woken up this certainly felt like a rude awakening. Why was she so suddenly alert again? As she began coming to her senses realizing the night was still very young she noticed a message laying on the ground presumably sent by Spike. Celestia may have been an Alicorn but the weariness from the day prior was making it hard to fully process everything. That's odd… Twilight is here… what could possibly be a reasonable explanation for receiving this?

Strangely it didn’t immediately occur to the ruler that in fact this message was due to an emergency, and she wouldn’t have been awoken otherwise. As she began levitating the paper slowly from the floor she caught sight of its crinkled and slightly ripped condition which was about when she began to think more clearly. She pulled it the rest of the way to her muzzle with haste and unraveled it. Normally every message she received from her student or from Spike was very formal. This however was far from it.

EMERGENCY!

PONYVILLE IS UNDER ATTACK!

Wiz Frame of the Solar guard is requesting immediate backup mobilization guard in Ponyville. his words: the Everfree is alive! Creatures are beginning to tear buildings apart, can confirm timberwolves in town. We have little time… IT'S BAD DOWN HERE! HeLp!

SpIKe

Celestia didn’t even bother to worry about all the issues within the hastily written letter, and instead in her royal Canterlot voice at just past midnight, she said something the entire castle could likely hear. “Ready my Chariot! Nightshade ready the Lunar forces to go to Ponyville. Equestria is officially at war!”

Immediately activity could be heard in the Castle halls outside as ponies began to move. A noticeable pressure was also building within the air. Luna popped into existence, teleporting in mere seconds after what Celestia declared.

“Sister what are we up against?”

“Honestly, no idea. My scout reported monsters from the Everfree in huge numbers but I haven’t seen anything like that in over a millennium.”

“I’m coming with you!”

“Who will keep things under control here?”

“Twilight is ready, and Cadance will be here to help. You know as well as I that if we’re dealing with things from the Everfree I am the most qualified to deal with it, especially since you have my guard suiting up.”

“Very well but we must continue this on the way. My chariot awaits.” Celestia put on her armor and teleported to her airstrip balcony with Luna following closely behind. It was evident that news had spread to a large portion of the castle because Pegasi were strapped up for departure and Nightshade had just led half the Lunar guard through the archway behind them.

“Your majesty, many of the lunar forces are on scheduled patrol cycles. They can’t all be reached at this time.”

“Never mind that, every second we delay could be costly.”

About this time, Twilight, looking extremely tired, rushed in through the back followed closely by her friends as well as Shining and Cadance. Shining approached the Princess’ briskly, dressed in his old captain's uniform and expecting instruction. “Shining I leave you the entire solar guard until further notice. Twilight I need you and Cadance to keep the peace tomorrow and hold the fort here. My sister and I will hopefully resolve this attack tonight but until we know the full scope of things prepare for the worst. Peace be with you my little ponies! Trust each other and we will get through this. Luna”

Much doubt could be seen within the element of magic, but Celestia was proud to see her student, and now equal, put on a confident face following the news. The elements of harmony had every right to be worried about not being able to do anything to protect their home, but she was glad none of them had any objections. She turned and looked at her sister.

Luna understood this was an indication for her to take the lead commanding. She stood looking at her guard behind her. In her booming voice she kept things short for the sake of urgency. “My faithful, stay alert and watch the flank of thy brethren. Move out!”

Chariots and Pegasi began taking to the sky in the direction of Ponyville; into the unknown.

* Above Ponyville Outskirts *

“Tia you don’t think…”

“No, that corrupted entity was destroyed by the elements several years ago.”

“Prepare for the worst, remember? We can’t rule out any possibilities.”

“You’re right Lulu, but I can’t handle the idea of living in a world where that demon could still haunt you.”

Celestia and Luna had mostly sat in silence as their chariots drew ever closer to the town below. As the town neared they took to the skies and led from the front. Luna used a spell to enhance her vision, turning the scene before her from a rush of movement and dancing of light to a hoard of monsters. “Ponies, we have sights on cockatrice down there! Don’t make eye contact or your night will end sooner than you intended. Archers I want focused fire on cockatrice and anything making headway on these houses. Earth ponies upon landing form ranks in front of the unicorn and engage the enemy. Don’t ignore each other; communicate! Nightshade I need you to take a few soldiers and evacuate civilians in danger.

I will need to focus my energy on taking down the Ursa’s leaving the forest. We got a major down there. Sister there’s at least 3 hydras we have to deal with. Think you're ready to deal with a late night fire?”

“I will be by your side in no time Luna, but until then I can demonstrate what happens when you threaten Equestria.”

“Glad to hear it. 20 seconds out. 15 seconds. 10 seconds. Archers to the ready! Fire!” Unicorns and Earth ponies began raining down death upon their targets but for other unfazed creatures this only drew attention to the reinforcements. Several cockatrice began glancing upwards. A handful of pagasi fell out of the sky and shattered as a statue. One Pegasi who had been flying with several ponies riding in a chariot behind him suffered this fate and it was hard to tell what became of them. Ponies were seeing the truth of war; some may lose their home while others will lose themselves in trying to save it.

“Troops take the fighting to the ground. I want ranks to be formed in the field by Twilight's castle. Push inwards towards the square!”

After the initial shock that had left many fliers missing in action, the forces landed with the earth ponies beginning a frontal assault. Nightshade began swinging outside the city limits with a small squadron of bat ponies finding a side alley to begin penetrating the mass of creatures within. This would hopefully prove to be a closed off and optimal position to keep them from being blindsided as they neared the first few houses that were under siege.

In the meantime Celestia began fulfilling her portion of her sister's command. Flying was going to prove difficult so she teleported behind the nearest hydra that had begun lighting fire to everything in its path. They were only a few blocks from where the old library once was. And here I thought you fowl beasts were all but extinct. After tonight you may wish you had been. Typically Celestias thoughts weren’t this brutish, but she was a little riled up for several reasons. Benevolence wasn’t going to end the conflict, and no pony knew war like she had. Not only was she a little heated mentally, but physically she was heating up and glowing a vibrant white; it was becoming brighter with each passing moment. Thank Luna for keeping me from the rest of the forces.

The many heads of the reptilian caught sight of the Princess and the middle one began spewing fire capable of engulfing anything in Celestia’s vicinity. As it neared her she blurred forward at an unbelievable speed and not only dodged The flamethrower but continued forward putting herself in position to launch a counter offensive. From underneath the first hydra came an equally hot spell. The heat ray destroyed a thick layer of scales and left the Hydra burned but regardless it refused to go down in a singular blow.

The hydra possessed by its wrath began a charge through Ponnyville’s streets. It crushed market stands, planters and cracked countless windows as it barreled down upon Celestia. Before it reached Celestia it did something that seemed unlike any sane creature to the Princess. It inflicted pain upon itself by biting off the central head. It grew back a set of two more mid run giving it double the fire power, but Celestia had seen enough. This was not a creature or even a beast that they had documented in books. This was a machine with the sole intent to kill and destroy.

Celestia didn’t even let the Hydra get within firing range before she used a very taxing spell. She became even brighter as she cast, creating a molten hot shield just below where she had previously hit with her last strike. After that there wasn’t much left to see of the awful thing. It roared in agony and collapsed as the shield, which had been shaped as a spear, impaled the location with the damaged scales and expanded outward, searing the Hydra from the inside out.

Celestia was sweating greatly and took no joy in the sufferings she had caused. Taking a second to catch her breath was all she spared as she moved on to take care of the next two that could be seen still approaching the town from the Everfree. She also did her best to extinguish a few fires along the way. She would have liked to be more involved with helping individuals and families evacuate like Nightshade was doing, but she knew in her heart that more would die if the Hydras were still alive to attack all her little ponies out in the open. It would take half the Lunar guard they had brought to take one down. It was hard for her to stay determined in what she had to do but she pressed on for her ponies and for Equestria.

* Everfree’s Edge *

Luna was having a terrible time. Why she had decided to take on the Ursa’s was beyond her. Her efforts were proving only enough to keep the monolithic bears at bay. She couldn’t seem to gain an inch or make a dent in their oversized magical bodies. Hopefully Celestia is faring better than I am. While there was only one major, it was accompanied by its children amassing 4 minors; far too much for any one alicorn.

Thus far Luna had survived with illusion magic focused on distractions. The bears had been working against each other as they struggled to connect with their target. Flashes were Luna’s wild card, blinding the nocturnal enemy long enough for Luna to avoid at least half a dozen “close calls”. As she flew around behind the head of the major preparing to strike with a concentrated mana projectile, she was unready for what happened next. She had been glanced with the back of one of the minors hands that launched her nearly half a mile, and for any regular pony would have broken every bone in their body upon crashing. Fortunately for Luna she was able to teleport before impacting anything and instead came away dazed, bruised, and with less magical reserves.

That was the good news. The bad news? She was right in the middle of the Apple family orchard. She couldn’t afford to lose valuable time keeping her foe away from the town, but they had seemingly lost interest in the town anyway. It was clear: she was their new target. They left craters in their wake shaking the earth to its core with each footstep covering hundreds of feet, they crossed the distance between them quickly, not because of speed but simply because of size. When they were within striking range they began trying to flatten her into a pancake. Countless trees were uprooted and hurled through the sky. It was hailing trees. Sorry Applejack Luna thought with a grimace. I’ll be sure to repay you for this.

It took great concentration, but Luna was catching trees in her levitation and spinning them around the faces of the Ursa’s like orbits. The strain and focus required was immense, but all the Ursa’s could do in response was swat at the pesky branches. They were annoyed all right, but Luna was unsure if the next part of her strategy would work. The trees were accelerating and circling at speeds just shy of winds during a tornado. It’s now or never. Before Luna lost control of the levitation and gravitational work she was doing she began thrusting a few trees at the eyes of the Ursa’s. It was enough to knock all the minors off their feet and make the major grab for its face, but now they were roaring in rage and Luna was exhausted. She cursed herself for wasting so much magic, for the bear's only sign of pain was how slowly they rose back to their full heights.

Aside from trying something suicidal she was unlikely to make further headway on her own with so many opponents to worry about. The only thing I can think of to end this is discord deciding he needs to make himself a few life-sized teddy bears. Needless to say the night was still young, and the apple orchard, outer fields, and even the Everfree were all a wreck.

* Downtown *

Nightshade is not available please call back later. The squadron which had split off from the main army included 5 thestrals and the Captain. They had been doing everything they could to support Ponyville while navigating through difficult encounters. Things hadn’t started well. About 10 minutes into their mission they had already taken out 12 timberwolves and 2 manticore at the expense of several gashes of varying depth and one of the bat ponies was out of commission so to speak. He had resorted to riding on one of his brethren with a bow after nearly having his hoof torn off.

They had just helped a handful of ponies exit the town out of the alley way they entered when the injury occurred. One of the timberwolves had been by itself instead of with a pack. This gave it the perfect opportunity to stealthily jump out of a presumably empty building they had passed. Its life was ended shortly after but not before the damage was done.

Now the group continued to press on going from residence to residence with the intent of rescuing ponies and getting backup from any that had the ability to fight. It was scary how many places already had broken windows or doors. The blood was even worse. Most of the ponies so far had injuries of varying degree. They hadn’t seen any casualties yet but it became obvious they would, which unsettled the small group. Nightshade's thoughts weren’t much better either. There’s far too many empty buildings… unless some ponies had a chance to group up… telling ponies and detailing events afterwards will make for an awful report.

At this time they were coming up on Sugarcube’s corner, home of the Cake’s. As they secured the block leading up to it finding only the flower trio present on that road they heard a scuffle of noises coming from up ahead. It was a mix of voices, grunting and shouts. As they rounded the corner they saw a sight that seemed very unsurprising solely because in Ponyville everyday is a surprise. There, taking a stand in-front of the restaurant was a good fifth of Ponyville. They were wielding anything they could get their hooves on while approximately 30 Everfree monsters were overwhelming them.

Nothing about it looked good. On one side stood a cockatrice, basilisk, and 28 timberwolves, while the other had three petrified ponies: Aloe, Derpy Hooves, and Vinyl Scratch. Big Mac was holding the group together swinging a torch back and forth to keep the timberwolves from advancing while struggling to avoid the eyes of the cockatrice. Lyra was there holding boulders in her magic. The Cakes wielded frying pans and Bon Bon was using a lamp as a club. Lotus could be seen holding onto her sister crying. Of the other ponies present, kitchenware and furniture were common weapons of choice. They were throwing or swinging everything they could to keep the timberwolves back. A few children and elderly ponies were near the back along with a few injured adults.

Nightshade quickly began formulating a plan with her squad. It was all in whispers to keep the element of surprise before they closed the distance on their enemies. She first called for the pony with the bow to target the head of the cockatrice upon her signal. He would be laid down in a prone position so that they wouldn’t have to carry him for the hoof to hoof combat. Then Nightshade intended to form a shield around the group and have the others form a small 4 pony wall in front of her. They would go in with their spears and hope to make it out intact, otherwise it would take too long for the injured to be attended to. This all relied on the first bow shot hitting true however, and they needed to make their move soon because the ponies in front of Sugarcube Corner couldn’t hold out much longer.

“On my count of three.”

“One…”

“Two…”

* Twilight’s Castle *

“They’re getting in Spike and I can’t do anything against this many Timberwolves. I haven’t even seen so many in one place before, let alone seen this many…

“At what point did I go wrong here?”

“Don’t think like that man. Twilight and I have gotten out of worse situations. We have to think of something… in fact I may have an idea.”

“Well let’s hear it! That door will only last another minute… two tops!”

“Well Twilight has a laboratory, and an off limits section under it. I’m told that’s where she puts all her failed projects, but I think she’s just hiding that they successfully did things she didn’t want them to do. Like... every time I bring it up she seems nervous like there’s some dangerous stuff down there.”

“This doesn’t sound like a good time to violate a Princess's space, but then again no time is…”

Forgive me Princess…

“Spike, I can’t hold this door any longer. Lead the way and prepare to start running. We will be hunted shortly after we leave.”

At this time Wiz Frame put a few last ditch things in front of the entry and let go of his hold on the door. He began galloping after the dragon into the depths of the castle. Spike was whispering directions to himself as they ran, which was unsettling to Wiz, but he continued to follow. He lifted his ears and could hear wood contacting against the floors but he pressed on.

“A left, right, down these stairs, right, left… There!”

A concrete door loomed up ahead presumably made to its thickness to contain the magic practiced inside. Spike had already entered. “We’ll come on!” Wiz wasn’t sure if going in would be better than staying outside this intimidating door, but at the sight of timberwolves rounding the bend behind him he made up his mind. He ran inside the door and slammed it behind him to the sound of wood splintering on it just after it closed. Ouch.

“Alright Spike you led me into this spooky basement, now what? I’m not about to wait out the conflict here.”

“There should be a door on this floor… somewhere…”

Wiz groaned, “not another door… this concrete around us just reminds me that my best friend is still made out of this stuff.”

“Help me look for some kind of button or handle. I’ve never been into it, but it’s got to be here.”

“Well if I was going to make a secret room I didn’t want anypony to find I would put an illusion over the entrance.”

“So you're saying there’s nothing to find?”

“No, I'm saying it would take a pony good with magic like Princess Twilight, to unveil it. Give me a sec…” Wiz began reaching out with his magic to feel for any active spells. He wasn’t good enough to sense magic in use, but he could trace the signature it left behind. “Got it! The Princess used a basic weave to disguise this drain as part of the floor, but in-fact I believe it isn't there at all!”

Spike walked over to the grate in the corner. It looked like an ordinary drain. Regardless he stuck his claw against the metal expecting it to pass through only for it to make contact with the surface. “Sorry but I think you were wrong. This is definitely a grate.”

“Hold on… I learned about this in school before I transferred to the guard… high level casters can manufacture a spell capable of tricking your mind into sensing the illusions presence with smell or feel. I’ll prove to you it’s not there.”

Wiz began walking towards the grate and imagined a stairwell underneath letting his next hoof come down lower then the first. Spike saw the illusion waver for a second. The hoof passed through solid metal and a small set of stairs was revealed momentarily before the spell adjusted to make it look like the metal went through Wiz Frames leg.

“Huh… we'll, we should hurry. Ponies need help out there. Thanks for saving me Wiz. I know you didn’t come here just for me but… had you not come to the castle I would have been in trouble. Now… What do you say we find something to get your friend back.”

“You're right… ponies could be dying at this very moment. Spike if you're right about this, and we find something capable of turning this battle in our favor I’ll be sure you are recognized by ponies as the hero you already are. Let's do this… together!”

Wiz and Spike trudged down the stairwell into the darkness. What secrets would they find hidden away from the eyes of the world?

Chapter 19: Secrets Unveiled

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘Pre-Dawn‘

* Spikes POV *

Tonight was sure to be full of surprises. It was so early! Yet that was irrelevant because adrenaline was keeping us alert. It was weird to think that we had overcome the illusion by seeing the reality through the façade, but there was no doubt about it as we continued deeper into the castle led by Wiz' glowing horn. We had left the laboratory behind moments ago, finding nothing of use in the space designed for containing spells, magical equipment and flasks. It did have quite a bit of materials in storage, but nothing that could serve as a tool to protect Ponyville. Wiz' magic and spear alone wouldn't be enough to fight our way out of the castle either. On top of that I was grasping at straws knowing that this would probably be another dead end, but at least I can prove it exists. Twilight didn't keep many secrets, but I couldn't help but feel guilty for encroaching upon this one, especially considering that she is a very intentional mare.

The stairs went on to eternity, but eventually the crystal castle allowed us to reach another door. After a quick scan Wiz determined that no traps or spells were present on the entrance so we cautiously proceeded into the dimly lit space. Besides Wiz' horn the only light came from a few shelfs on the wall full of various substances. I've sat through too many Twilight lecture because I immediately recognized this glowing effect as similar to bioluminescence, and I'd never even seen the stuff! Most of the room remained in darkness which I quickly solved by lighting a set of torches by the entrance. This had some unforeseen consequences...

The room was well lit now; very well lit, but that wasn't because of the torches. The fire I breathed reacted strangely when it came in contact with the torch. Instead of setting just the torch ablaze it puffed with a mini explosive behavior and the fire started reacting... It was practically dancing. It traced itself along a channel filled with a strange powder, lighting every corner of the chamber. One wall held various metals in odd shapes and sheets, while another held many canisters including the ones I first noticed upon entering. The far wall had a workbench with jewelry sitting on top, as well as gems; mainly diamonds and rubies. I recognized these as being the best at storing magic, but why Twilight had some of the other items was a mystery. The metals didn't look right. The jewelry was poorly shaped. Some of the jars looked empty while others were filled with the powder I couldn't place the smell of.

"What is all this? Twilight doesn't normally research blacksmithing or metallurgy does she? I mean the other room had machines to measure thaums, and this room is full of scraps."

"Um, I think it's safe to say we don't know what anything does in here. I mean whatever is keeping this fire burning is clearly not something mass produced because it's not oil based. Twilight’s very thorough with details, labels, and instructions so I think we should look for descriptions before we touch anything. " We spent minutes flipping through books on the tables, but they didn't help much. One was detailing material science and the resistance of certain substances to heat and impact. Another book was completely different discussing the process of enchanting spells or magical properties onto objects, this proved to be intriguing but did little to tell us if any of the various items would be useful.

My patience was wearing thin so I began to fiddle with some of the jewelry. This was when we had our first breakthrough and gave ourselves a sliver of hope to help Ponyville.

One of the bands on the table was about the thickness of my arm. It appeared to be made of gold and iron, and had a connection fused together with an Emerald. I sort of wanted to take a bite out of it, but instead I opted for sliding it on my arm. It only took a few seconds to process that this had the effect of making my limb fully disappear. I let out a light gasp but Wiz Frame was so engrossed that he didn't even notice. I wandered over behind him while he continued to have all his focus on trying to scan through the various containers on the wall. I then tapped him on the shoulder.

"What is it,Spike? Spike? Where'd you go? This is not funny!"

"I'm right here, relax."

"WHAT THE?!" I took off the band and Wiz jumped suddenly. I have to admit the look of shock on his face was priceless, but enjoying that frozen image could come later.

"I think all of these are magical artifacts or at least partially built ones."

"How? Spells shouldn't be able to be stored and reactivated the same way mana can be. These gems are probably mana batteries, but that doesn't explain how Princess Twilight imbued instructions into the material for it to use the mana autonomously."

"Less questions. We can worry about that later. Let's test the rest of these projects and see what else can be of use."

"Sorry it's just... my interest in magic study was probably one of the only reasons I made it into the guard."

I handed Wiz the invisibility trinket, and we went through a few more items on the workbench. The sole necklace just sparked and fizzled erratically (good thing I put that on). Another bracelet formed a perfect shield around the wearer. A horn ring made my scales temporarily change to a blue color (safe to say some of these were failed projects), and a gem shaped like an elongated cylinder fired horn blast equivalents. Sorry Twi we may have blasted one of your tables to shreds when we were examining that one.

Before we left the room there was one more thing I felt could be useful given our limited knowledge. The powder was somehow still burning which didn't make sense at all, but based on how warm the room was getting, I was beginning to think this would prove to be advantageous against Timberwolves. As you can imagine they don't like fire. These are the times I love being a dragon. We extinguished the flames and began formulating a plan. Wiz would have the invisibility, and the powder. I would wield the blaster, the shield spell, and my fire. It was decided that Wiz would sprinkle some of the burning compound onto any wolves we passed that couldn't see him, and I would light them up while protected by my full body shield.

Let me just say while I have technically saved the world before, this will be my first official fight. My sister sure wouldn't be happy about the mess, but I'm sure she will be a little more reasonable if we make it out of this in one piece. I shuddered as we reached the top of the stairs and approached the concrete door of the main lab.

"Well it's time. Are you ready for the plan Spike?"

"No."

"Good. Nopony is ever ready for battle because it's not in our nature, but we will prevail! For Equestria!"

"Wait, isn't this supposed to be a surprise attack? Now the wolves on the other side have heard us."

"I'm invisible, remember?"

"Oh that's reassuring."

"Oh shut up I was just trying to make things more dramatic! You know, build a scene, intimidate the enemy, that sort of thing."

"Actually in that case I'll get into character myself. I've been practicing with my Ogres and Oubliettes group. Here's how it really should be done. TODAY WE FIGHT, AND IF WE DIE WE DIE WITH HONOR. FOR EQUESTRIA! RAWWW" I think I surprised myself more than Wiz when I let out a dragon roar, but we only hesitated for a second. On that note while I stood back, Wiz swung the door open. The battle was on!

* Downtown *

ssssssp...

-puuu

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CRASH!

The entirety of every being in the area looked towards the sound of the fallen cockatrice. The first phase went off even better than expected because of the sound from the creatures’ collapse. The slight pause in the warfare was followed by the squadron of night guards beginning their charge, led by Nightshade and four spiky shafts. As the enemy began switching their focus back to the ponies, some of them spotted the movement of the approaching band and broke off from the main group to start a charge of their own. The Ponyville citizens were reinvigorated with the will to press the advantage and the petrified ponies had been released from stone once the cockatrice was no more. The cockatrice curse doesn't persist through the death of the cockatrice, but if the stone prison is broken the pony inside will pass on.

It was a huge praise that the bow hit its mark, but the enemy didn't stay surprised for long. The second stages of the plan were already going south. With half the army of wolves barreling down on the five of them, continuing the charge seemed futile.

"Take to the sky! Press your aerial advantage against the Timberwolves. Just try and keep distance between yourself and any manticores. Don't engage the Basilisk alone either!"

There was one problem in Nightshade's plan. She was a unicorn. Her combat would be grounded, so she planned on retreating to a position near the injured thestral pony in her squad. "Sorry Captain but we aren't going anywhere! We will fight by your side until the end."

"That was an order!" Keeping up her shield, Nightshade began firing mana blasts at anything and everything headed her direction. They all ended up holding their ground as the first of the wolves were on them. Wood was splintering upon impact from the magic blasts but the charge was not halted and even the work of the three thestrals was only temporarily crushing the wolves that were just as quickly reforming. Claws, and timberwolve maws were slamming the edge of the shield causing it to waiver. Nightshade held strong as she fought to maintain focus of the multiple spells she was working with. "This isn't working! We need to get over to Sugarcube Corner before I lose this shield."

"Basilisk incoming, 2 o'clock!" Nightshade had just long enough to look over to where her team indicated before its tail came down out of the corner of her eye making contact with her shield and shattering it upon impact. Unicorns can be stunned for several minutes and be left with a nasty headache after having a shield broken like that, but Nightshade was trying hard to regain focus. Everything felt slow motion and fuzzy. even her purple hoof in front of her was unclear. She felt herself get lifted off the ground and by the sound of things Full House (the largest of the thestrals) was attempting to get her to a safer spot.

She couldn't really hear the battle sounds, but while her awareness wasn't fully back yet she heard a voice; a menacingly dark and merciless voice. "You ponies are proving to be even more pathetic than I expected. Where's those rainbow powers when you need them hmm? You and your sad party are nothing against the things I can do. If you remember this talk, pass on a message to your Princesses for me: Your strength has been tested and I am disappointed with how poorly you've done against a portion of our own. MUHAHAHHAA! Ah but you can forget the laugh. Do be careful though. I wouldn’t want you to die tonight."

* Canterlot Castle *

Twilight hadn’t been able to sleep after the Princesses left for Ponyville, and she had no doubt the rest of her friends and family were probably in a similar boat. She stayed on the balcony of the chariot dock for a long time after the Sisters flew away. She simply stared at the horizon in the direction of Ponyville waiting for some indication things would be ok. The longer she waited the more uncertain she became that things would be.

She hadn’t received a letter from Spike, hadn’t been notified of any updates by the remaining guard, and was a nervous wreck. In the past when there was a problem she had her friends and they would face the challenge together. Now they were all on standby and were asked to stay behind. I feel hopeless to do anything! Celestia could have trusted us with this but she and her sister went in our place; to our home that we have come to protect with our lives and friendship. As Twilight Sparkle stewed over her thoughts she didn’t hear the sound of somepony approaching from behind her.

“Couldn’t sleep either huh.”

“Ah you scared me Blazing!”

“Yeah I guess we’re all a little on edge tonight…

Look I’m sorry to interrupt you but I saw you all alone and felt called to talk to you; to tell you that things will end up ok. God can make all things no matter how bad work together for his good in the end… even when we don’t see it… We just have to trust that there will be a resolution to all this… that we get to see it real soon.

Ah you know what? I sound like I’m trying to convince myself I guess, I’m sorry.”

Twilight had kept quiet during all of this pondering his words, but she didn’t feel discouraged by the doubt that showed in his voice. “Do you really believe that this God exists?”

“I do, he even made these beautiful stars that Luna has learned to show off. Heh I still feel weird talking and rationalizing how much you guys can do with magic though. It will never seem natural but magic is kind of like faith actually. I don’t understand it, but I have to believe that it does what it’s designed to do and will always function even when we can’t see it.”

“Thanks Blazing the way you think… I mean I feel a bit better. I guess I just feel guilty that I'm not doing anything to help.”

“Well worrying certainly won’t help them either. I think we’re in good hands considering the sisters literally move the planets. Here, maybe this will help.”

Blazing leaned in and hugged Twilight, who now had a large blush that Blazing couldn’t see. While they were still hugging Blazing kept talking to hopefully (in his mind) keep things more natural.

“Somebody once told me that this is one of the best ways to comfort someone who’s worri-.”

“Wait, hold on!” Twilight pulled away from the hug abruptly.

“So-rry if I made you uncomfortable you can forget this happened if-“

“No no no not that. You didn’t make me that uncomfortable. It was a really nice gesture actually, but somepony just entered my lab! They tripped my hidden security spell. No one ever enters my lab but me! What if it was Spike?”

“Twilight?”

“What if they’re in real trouble! I have to help! What if-“

“Twilight! If you're going to go then I am too. Then you can say it was my idea if the Princesses get mad at you for leaving here. First we need to be rational. Ask yourself why somebody or somepony I mean would go into your lab, and then ask what is the best thing we can do about it. Also don’t leave your other friends in the dark about this right? They would want to know.”

“You're right! I was about ready to teleport straight there but we better collect a few things first. Come on!”

Chapter 20: The Morning Will Come

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘Pre-Dawn‘

* Sweet Apple Acres *

Celestia was feeling extremely tired and sweaty by the time she finished off the last Hydra. She had begun to experience a new appreciation for sleep considering how much she was missing out on, but the work wasn't finished yet, and it had taken way too much time and energy to defeat the attacking creatures. Her immediate thought following her fight went straight to her sister as she remembered Luna had taken the harder opponent to begin with. What she didn't know is where to start looking for them. Celestia took to the skies and began surveying the fields that stretched between Ponyville and the Everfree, at the same time as making her way back toward the town. Her focus had been so set on the hydras that she... wait hold that thought. She had barely taken flight when she saw the giants towering over everything else, with their steps that literally made the ground shake. Yeah hard to miss the behemoths in the Apple family orchards that glow like constellations. Ursa's are anything but subtle.

Putting some energy into her flight she made her way in her sister's direction, praying that she was holding up. I'm coming, Luna. Hold on just a bit longer. Within her mind was an internal clock forged from a thousand years raising the sun and the time to rise that celestial body was less than a few hours from now. Putting great strength into every wing beat, Celestia was nearing the battlefield that was the Apple Family Farm. Hundreds of trees had been uprooted and her sister was doing her best to dodge giant fists swinging at her. She looked rather winded and the only thing to show for it was some scratches around the head and neck area of the Ursa's. Realistically there were only a few options: Attempt to split the focus of the enemy, fight side by side, or alternatively use spells meant to subdue rather than fight. This method would be closer to what Twilight did. When she encountered one, she had different resources at her disposal. Regardless Luna needed help and Celestia was going to do her part.

Her body began heating up as she began to harness her strongest abilities tied to her affinity with the sun. Coming in for a landing the heat emanating from her body was sapping all the moisture from the soil under the feet of the Ursas. The dry and cracking ground was immediately cause for the giant bears to stumble from the loose footing shifting under their feet. Before Celestia began going on the offensive she thought about what she was up against. A nocturnal creature meant to see in the dark would be at a severe disadvantage among bright or flashing lights. While it is not normally known for leaving its home, it would probably return to the caves at dawn. Above her, Luna could be seen flying around the head level of the creatures continuing to buy time and search for openings. Now Celestia would make her move. Springing up from the ground she was flying next to Luna in seconds.

"Sister! Let me handle their attention. I can impair their vision. Do you have the energy to put them into a sleep or stasis?"

"We are not certain! Beasts of this scale will require much, though we can find strength!" Luna replied while dodging another bone crushing swipe.

They began working in sync with Celestia lighting up the night sky above Ponyville. She radiated heat and her body flashed brightly, while Luna went to work. She touched her horn to the back of the Ursa major while casting a sleep spell and used the physical touch to also push thoughts into its head about feelings of tiredness. Though it took over an entire minute, the major soon tripped on the dry soil and collapsed in a heap, smashing over a few hundred apple trees in the process. When the Ursa minors saw their parent sleeping and felt the earthquake its body made upon hitting the ground, they began shaking their heads as if clearing away a mental fog. They surrounded the major, each grabbing onto a limb and began hauling their mother back towards the Everfree forest.

For anypony watching it would have made a strange sight but for the sisters it was a great relief. As Luna watched the retreating forms, she began to feel a little woozy, so she came in for a landing. Within the next few moments despite her best efforts, she found her eyes closing on their own accord and it was a struggle to keep them open. The last image in her mind was the sight of her sister landing in front of her before the world faded to black.

* Canterlot Castle *

Blazing was just finishing up talking to a guard about summoning Princess Twilight's brother and sister-in-law as well as the other element bearers when he heard the purple mare gasp. "Make sure they know it's urgent as well!" Blazing called after the guard and watched him gallop away to spread the word. He turned back to face Twilight and spotted her looking at a floating image of another room reflecting off of seemingly thin air. Blazing moved towards her looking on in amazement. "Is that scrying? What do you see?"

"It's not what I see... it's what I don't see! Somepony has stolen some dangerous projects out of a room that I was certain nopony knew of! I'm not sure if I've even shown my friends this room... I can't wait any longer. What if somepony broke in? What if they hurt Spike? But I could never leave here and disobey Celestia. She would banish me and... Ohh-"

"Twilight believe me when I say that Celestia would never do that, and I would never let that happen. Go! I don't like it but... I'll talk to your friends. You go and save your brother!" Under his breath Blazing had whispered one final thing; "cause I wasn't able to save mine." Twilight's ear had twitched, and she tried not to show too much reaction to what she had overheard instead putting on a look of determination.

"Thank you Blazing! I owe you the world already. I will do my best to make it up to you somehow."

"Godspeed Twilight. I look forward to hearing good news when you get back." Twilight lit her horn and began to concentrate on landing her teleport just inside of her lab. After a short prep, she finished her weave and with a pop Blazing was left alone in the corridor with a lot of explaining to do. I do hope they go easy on me when I tell them that Twilight left... Man that mare has serious panic attacks!

"Alright Blazing we’re here, where is Twilight?" Shining Armor asked.

"Well, you may not like to hear this, but she had to go to Ponyville bec-

"You let my sister go to Ponyville alone?! Twilight would never disobey something Celestia asked, and she of all ponies knows the importance of trusting in those around her. I knew you were trouble! How could you knowingly let a part of my family go straight into danger." Shining was fuming at this point and clearly some frustration could be seen on some of the others faces, especially Rainbow Dash'.

"If you just let me finish, I can explain."

"No"

"Shining we should hear him out. Twilight isn't unreasonable with her decision making." Cadance tried.

"I said what I said, Cadance. No, I think you should get out of this house for being a bad influence on my sister."

"Excuse me? Your sister is the only reason I'm in this mess dude and if it weren't for her, I wouldn't even be on this crazy planet of chaos! NO you listen to me! Twilight thinks someone has broken into her home and she left to protect Spike. Hard to brag about her number one assistant if she were to lose him. I would be with her too had she not been in such a hurry. I can see that had we both left, our absence would have made things even worse here. So don't accuse me or her of anything! I think she is being both brave and noble.”

Blazing's outburst had stunned everypony. Shining Armor didn't know whether to be angry, afraid, or in respect of Blazing for what he said, but one thing was for certain.

"Applejack, is what he just said all true?"

"Well, I ain't pickin' up on no lies yet."

"Then I owe you an apology Blazing. Seems like you have good intentions at heart, and I appreciate your backbone when it comes to standing up for things you believe in."

"So what do we do now? We can't just keep standing here?" Rainbow Dash began.

"That's just it... I know you all want to go after her, but if I were being attacked, I wouldn't want all my eggs in one basket. We need-“ Blazing hardly got any farther before being cut off by Pinkie Pie laughing at his idiom.

"I love all my eggs in one basket! See! Makes them easier to find when I'm baking!"

Blazings eyes bulged a bit at seeing Pinky pull a large container of eggs out of her mane, but he quickly composed himself, choosing to ignore the comment and magic entirely. "Yes, well as I was saying I really think Celestia is right about us staying in Canterlot. However, I understand you all are closer to her then I am so it's not up to me. Prince Armor, you were once captain of the royal guard. What's the play here?"

Cadance smiled at seeing Blazing defaulting to her husband's judgment so shortly after unleashing his frustration on him. Shining wasted no time in speaking up in response. "You can call me Shining. My sister is a planner and it's hard to imagine her acting so rashly, but Blazing is right. I know that Twilight can take care of herself in difficult situations and the guard there will also protect her. We should continue to stay alert here working in shifts until it's clear the crisis is over."

And that's exactly what they did. Rainbow and Rarity stayed awake for the first watch in case they needed to call the others and the rest headed off towards their respective guest rooms. On the way Blazing and Shining Armor exchanged a few words. "Love, do you mind continuing without me for a bit? I think it's time Blazing and I have a Stallion-to-Stallion conversation."

"Ok Shiney just don't do anything I wouldn't do." Cadance reluctantly went on ahead.

"You know, Shining, you're surprisingly easy to read. I've been able to feel your concern about my character just by seeing the way you look at me and I hope to change that. Everything has been so hectic since you got here, we never got to have a proper introduction. My name is Chase Waters and I am a human in the skin of a pony. I've decided that until I can return to 'normal' I want to go by Blazing Waters. It seems more like the names you have, and I've been told my backstory may make some ponies uncomfortable, so this was my split-second compromise."

"That does answer a few of my questions... My name is Shining Armor and I will admit I have been a little unfair to you. It's not every day a stallion finds out the Princesses trust a stranger with a royal seal, let alone a brother finds out another guy is living with his sister. You can see why there may have been some room for concern with how you have so many ponies putting their trust in you."

"Well, you have a mighty fine mare for a sister. She has already shown me so much about this world and its mysteries through books and lessons and... anyways as far as the Princess giving me this." Blazing put a hoof on the pendant. "You, being a Prince probably have the right to know why I'm even here. I'm entertaining the idea that somehow, according to Discord anyways, I am important for saving this nation, Equestria. Why I believe a statement that sounds like a poorly designed movie plot, on top of the fact it was told by the spirit of chaos... I have no idea. I guess some part of me wants to see where this goes and also feels a desire to help."

"It's because you've built connections here isn't it? You don't feel right abandoning them?"

"That good at seeing through people, huh? Figures since you have a military background... Look I don't know why this world is making me so open, but I'm about to tell you something I haven't shared with anyone so please don't spread this around. I was pretty isolated back home. There was this disease keeping people apart, or even walled off behind masks, and I was so busy with my studies I never knew how fun it could be to party or make friends; I always thought that was for people that weren't serious about their life and education. I went to one Pinkie party, and I knew nobody... but suddenly I felt welcomed by every pony in attendance. I don't even like surprises but the people in that room still brought a smile to my face and made me feel welcome. I still don't know many ponies, but those I do know have welcomed me with open arms and I can only begin to aspire for that kind of kindness and generosity."

"Thanks for your honesty, Blazing, it's encouraging to see that this season of your life has been good to you in some ways besides it all being bad. However, I have heard the things you say about my sister and it's obvious that you think highly of her. Quit flattering the idea that you two can be something more."

"What the heck are you talking about? She's a pony!"

"Yeah, and right now so are you. All I'm saying is if you have any care for my sister, you won't go beyond regular friendship because I don't want you to butter her up just to somehow break her when you leave."

"Ok I get it! I was hoping being more open would help earn your trust, but I can see that you have other things on your mind. First Spike and then you making remarks about Twilight is a lot to take in. I don't know why everypony thinks I have feelings for Twilight Sparkle... She's just my first Equestrian friend, that's all."

* Twilight's Castle *

It was clear upon arrival that things weren't as they originally seemed to Twilight. The basement smelled of rotten, burnt wood and had residual magic still present in the air. Twilight was able to detect Chaos magic from the Everfree and her own magical energy signature indicating that some of her enchanted items had been activated. Spike was nowhere to be seen, but what she did notice upon reaching her main laboratory at the top of the hidden stairwell was Timberwolves trying and failing to reconstruct themselves. Her combustible aluminum gel-powder deemed too dangerous for further testing appeared to be still fizzling with light flames. The fire was keeping the wolves down. Well at least it's good for something Twilight thought, although she felt a little bad that any creature would have to experience the hot flames her chemical compound produced.

The line of sticks and ashes extended beyond the room, so Twilight began to follow the destruction up the stairwell, surprised to see so many Timberwolves had been in her home. She surveyed more of the hall and still found nothing except remains. "Spike? Are you here? Spike?" Nothing came in response. The castle was silent. Where are you? Twilight was about to head back to her lab to reset her spells and look for clues when something shook her to her core. A horrible scream pierced through the castle lasting for all of a second, before there was again, no sound.

‘10 Minutes Prior‘

Spike couldn't see Wiz Frame moving on ahead, but what he could see was hungry Timberwolves. They always looked wild when he had seen them before, but now they had an even more hostile and vicious tone to them. An invisible Wiz, holding the flammable material in his telekinesis, began dumping it on the wolves. The Timberwolves attention was fixed on Spike. He began running towards them at the same time as they charged back. At the last moment just before they collided, Spike yelled "Shield up" and unleashed a wall of flames from his mouth which wasted no time in engulfing the wooden constructs. Wiz could feel the heat through his shield even though he had continued running past the first group of Timberwolves by the door.

It had been a great surprise how quickly they made work of the first 7 wolves, yet the fear and adrenaline made them push into the hall without stopping. Wiz removed the invisibility band and they continued to press on running side by side in the direction of the exit, blasting Timberwolves as they went; Wiz with his own magic, and Spike with the artificial mana blast. They were at a severe advantage with their ranged weapons. As they neared the front entry it was almost devoid of any more threats, so they continued running towards their exit. Something was off, however. Spike hadn't heard much sound following the last wolf they took down besides their own steps. They were about 30 feet from the door, when he heard it; a branch rubbing against the crystal floor. At that moment Spike called for Wiz to stop running. Simultaneously, 12 more wooden wolves pounced from the nearest rooms both in front and behind their current position.

"We're surrounded." Spike still had all his magical devices but running through the castle had taken a lot of energy out of him. Wiz Frame wasn't much better. The Timberwolves were slowly closing the circle in and snapping their jaws as they did so.

"I'm out of powder and we can't shoot them all at once, we're going to have to teleport." Wiz said with urgency. The wolves were less than five feet away now. "Grab onto me!" Wiz felt Spike's hand reach out and touch his rear leg just as the Timberwolf directly in front of him pounced. He fired up his horn and focused on the town hall building where he had rung the bell earlier and simultaneously felt the force of a jaw clamp down on the top of his foreleg near the shoulder. The majority of the spell had been completed, and they were out of the castle in a flash with Wiz screaming in pain from the singular wolf that had come along for the ride. Spike was petrified when Wiz started screaming and watched as the Timberwolf continued gnawing at his leg. Then he looked at Wiz, gritting his teeth and finally found the will to move. He shot the wolf with a mana blast making it crumble into wooden fragments. Collapsing onto the floor Spike was pretty sure he had seen enough. I wanted so badly to help ponies and now we've just got ourselves into a worse situation.

But there was no time to shut down and give up. "Wiz can you move? What should I do? Do you need me to find help?"

"I don't have much magical reserve. I'll survive, but thiss stabbing pain is more than my training prepared me for." Wiz practically hissed. "Buck, I need to be out there helping ponies." In the distance crashing sounds and battle cries could be heard although it was hard to tell how close the sounds were coming from. Looking over Wiz Frame, Spike felt as though he had aged a couple years seeing the rips in Wiz' fur.

There's sooo much blood! Spike moved over to the front desk of the office and quickly rummaged through the drawers trying to find anything of use. He settled for a roll of tape and returned to Wiz’s body. "I'm sorry I don't know first aid, but I do know we gotta stop that bleeding. This is going to hurt." Spike taped over the wound as best he could, but Wiz was clearly in searing pain, nearly smacking Spike in the face from his reaction. "Wiz you need help. I'm going to go find somepony and I will be right back. Stay strong!"

With that, Spike looked out of the front of the building preparing to step out. The streetlights of Ponyville were casting shadows over an army of Everfree monsters, but a line of ponies could be seen out front of Sugarcube Corner at the other end of the Main Street. They were doing their best to defend themselves and more ponies inside. Where was there to go for help? Going into the ranks of the enemy would be suicide. For Wiz he would have to make a decision. He moved back over to where Wiz lay and grabbed the invisibility device from his saddle bags. Slipping it over his arm he felt more ready to take on what lay outside. So, with a mana blaster on half capacity, a personal shield device, and the invisibility, Spike snuck out of a first story window on the side of the building, careful not to bring too much attention to where Wiz lay injured.

First order of business... nothing is looking in my direction, good. Spike began moving into discreet places he could pick off the enemy and put an end to this madness. Being able to fly would have helped tremendously, however, Spike was finding quite a bit of success just hitting things from a distance. He shot a manticore in the back doing enough to stun it yet none of its brethren seemed to care. They had to have more awareness than they were showing but they seemed so one track minded that the only thing they focused on was the ponies in front of them that they were trying to kill. Soon the numbers began to show a noticeable decline in the opposing forces. The army that had been led into Ponyville at the start of the fight had finally worked their way through the city, smaller than when they arrived, but still determined.

The citizens of Ponyville were pushing the invaders back from the confectionery, the royal guard was moving in from the side and Spike was putting in some serious work on the other front by himself. It didn't make any sense that the enemy was ignoring him, but they must have operated on an out of sight out of mind instinct. The largest threat remaining was the giant basilisk which had ripped through several houses up to this point and was smashing its body into everything. It would have ripped through the locals as well had a few of them not been using earth pony strength along with unicorn levitation to keep it back every time it got too close. Nopony had a good plan for what to do to stop it, only for how to keep it in check. Spike tried to fire some blasts at it, but it was no good. Even arrows that came from the royal guard weren't penetrating the scales. They only served to annoy the reptilian creature which now had its gaze locked on Spike. Spike felt immobilized by the eyes of the snake and was caught completely off guard. How can it see me? He couldn't move his body but when he looked at his arm, he realized that he was no longer invisible. Spike had forgotten that the item he wore had its limits. The stored mana in the arm band had finally run out at the worst time. The Basilisk was moving toward the little dragon now at a fast rate due to its size.

It was almost on top of him. This is it Spike thought. I tried but it wasn't enough... I'm sorry Wiz... He closed his eyes and waited for the inevitable pain from the Basilisk's maw.

...

Suddenly the ground shook with a great quake and a loud bang sounded that carried for miles; hundreds if not thousands of miles actually. The volume was equivalent to a volcanic eruption. The Basilisk, having been distracted by the sound, looked in the direction the noise had come from and suddenly looked very confused. Why was it not in its home?

"Get away from my brother!" A purple alicorn descended with flared wings and glowing eyes. She overlooked the Basilisk towering over Spike. The same Basilisk that had just been rampaging now looked afraid. It no longer wanted Spike as a lunch and instead made a quick and tactical retreat back toward the Everfree forest. The remaining Timberwolves and other various creatures also began falling back although the Timberwolves still had the same bloodlust in their eyes.

"I don't think they're all leaving because of me." Twilight thought out loud.

"Twilight! I need your help! The Stallion who gave the warning of the attack and saved my life is hurt! He's inside the Town Hall!" Twilight, having seen the carnage in the town knew he wasn't the only one who was hurt, but she came to help her brother and now that she felt better about his safety, she would help however and whoever else she could.

"Ok Spike hop on! Let's go get him to the hospital." Hopefully there's a hospital to get him to. Spike got on Twilight's back and they flew back to the Town Hall picking up Wiz Frame, who was thankfully still alive but in a bad state. His foreleg was almost completely torn all the way through. Big Mac, along with some of the ponies that had been at Sugar Cubes Corner and the guards assisted with finding injured ponies. The hospital was quickly over capacity. Shortly thereafter Celestia had entered Ponyville carrying Luna and addressed the ponies present. Every lost pony would be honored and not forgotten. A little ways outside of town a crumbled statue lay in the grass. Among the lost, a brave earth pony by the name of Granite had been crushed. There would be much mourning in the days to come.

After a long night the sunrise was a pleasant sight to Ponyville. Celestia's sun unveiled just how bad things were, but it also was the hope for things to get better. Ponyville is a resilient town full of strong ponies. When they come together, magic begins.

Location: Unknown

"Chrysalis, I do believe it's time for your love drain operation to commence."

"With Pleasure." The Queen of the Changelings said with a fang filled grin.

"Do your worst." The voice echoed back.

Chapter 22: Realizing a Talent

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘1:14pm‘

Blazing hadn't slept much the night before, nor could he seem to sleep much now. His mind raced with questions and thoughts about what had transpired over the past few days. He kept joking about needing therapy, but his mental state really was in a poor place. Many things were uncertain, but one thing was for sure: he needed to release some stress and trying to sleep was getting him nowhere. It was time to do something he hadn't done since becoming a pony, run. Leaving his room, he found his way into the palace garden. Starting at a slow pace and slowly building up, Blazing forgot for the first time that he was wearing the wrong skin. He had felt alien sensations for the past week, but his mind was now functioning on auto pilot, without worry winning every waking second. After thirty minutes feeling began to return, his body starting to ache from a good workout.

As he began to slow down, he noticed another pony in the garden for the first time. Despite Blazing not knowing many ponies, her pink mane was easily recognizable. Fluttershy was sitting by a group of animals seemingly talking with them.

"Excuse me? Fluttershy?"

"Oh, you startled me." Some of the animals had left, but Blazing continued to approach.

"I couldn't help but notice you were talking to yourself over here. How are you holding up?"

"I was talking with the garden animals. My friends were cheering me up. I'm scared thinking about the future."

"What scares you the most?"

"I know my friends need me. The squirrels were helping me put away my doubts."

"I don't understand. You're scared that your friends need you."

"No... I'm scared that fear will keep me from acting when my friends are in danger. I'm scared of losing somepony..."

"Fluttershy, I wish I could take away those fears. I wish I could tell you it will all be okay. I promise I'll do what I can to help while I'm here, but I'm not even sure what I'm supposed to do. There's still so much I don't know." By this time almost all the animals had scurried away, but one squirrel remained hiding behind Fluttershy's leg.

"Well, when I don't know what to do, I talk to others. My friends give me lots of advice. When Applejack doesn't know something, she works harder. When Twilight is feeling lost, she references books. When Pinkie Pie is struggling, she-

"-Wait sorry to interrupt Fluttershy, but you're a genius! I know what I need now! Is there an archive with documents you can't find in the castle library?"

"Yes."

"Thank you Fluttershy! I've felt so pressured trying to figure out what I'm supposed to do if I'm going to be Equestria's best chance, and now, thanks to you, I know where I need to go! Thanks for putting up with me Fluttershy! Your kindness is saving ponies! No, your kindness is saving Equestria!"

"Yay... Glad I could help."

Twilight may have been Blazing's instructor on all things magic, but with her still resting from the physical and mental exhaustion of the night before, Blazing was on his own if he wanted to practice learning and honing his new abilities. He was determined not to find himself unprepared for any more situations that could arise, and that would mean learning how to use magic that no other pony (currently alive) could. Blazing found the nearest castle guard and asked for directions to the royal archives which they gladly shared upon seeing his royal seal. If Twilight was only able to watch as he experimented with elemental magic anyway, he would try to find documentation of a pony who had been born with the power. Maybe then he would find clues about what other magical abilities he may possess. The question is why had Celestia mentioned her without divulging very many details about her? What was her name again? Winter Storm?

At the door the guards checked his security clearances. He was allowed access to the archives and immediately began searching for the section on magical studies. He saw books dedicated to a single spell, books about pony magic by tribe, and books about specific branches of magic such as combat or conjuration. Blazing was trying to contain his impulses to spend the rest of his time in Equestria studying these books, but they didn't contain the knowledge he was seeking. The greater part of an hour was spent sifting through books that most of the Equestrian population had likely never seen, but Blazing couldn't find anything referencing elemental magic. If a book did exist, it seemed like it didn't want to be found.

"Can I help you find something? I couldn't help but notice you seem to be lost." The archivist, having come up behind Blazing without him really noticing, had really shook Blazing up. Blazing had thought he was alone for a while and hadn't expected company.

"Do you happen to have anything on elemental magic?"

"Hmm... That is a tough one. No, I can't say that we do."

"You can't say but it does exist, doesn't it? What about Winter Storm? Do you have any information on her?"

"Yes, but I believe all we have is public record information."

"So, the books I'm looking for are connected then? Would this help me see them?" Blazing pulled his seal back out of his bag showing it to the archivist.

"I'm impressed you knew they existed. I've only heard that name used by Princess Celestia. They are among books not meant to be seen by anyone short of the princesses and you apparently. Follow me." The archivist began making his way to the back corner of the archives where he inserted a hoof into a small gap between two shelves. The bookshelf ended up revealing the classic secret door. It led to a spiral staircase going down. When they reached the bottom, braziers automatically lit, illuminating the small reading room.

"I must warn you that the information kept here is private for a reason. Everything down here is either dangerous or not meant to be public knowledge, so you must not divulge anything you learn while in here." The archivist began making his way to a shelf on the left side of the room where he pulled out a rather old looking leather bound book. "Here's the books you requested. It is both a research documentation and journal of Winter Storm, however it was never completed. From what I'm told it has an abrupt end, but even I am not allowed to know what is contained within most of these books. Happy reading sir."

"Thank you."

The book titled "Storms of A Different Nature, magical research of the elements", written by Winter Storm was well preserved for how many centuries it had been around. Blazing opened the first page and began reading.

Journal Entry I (7/3/331 ME):

Today marks the first day of controlled testing for what activates my special talent. Emotions have been known to set off the storm inside, and past experience demonstrates that the amount of mana consumed is greater than should be possible based on personal reserves. The theory is all elemental magic must tap into external ley-lines. Today the first test will be to feel the flow of ley-lines around the environment.

The page continued on, and Blazing was soaking up all the ideas held within the experiments. Winter had been trying to connect with nature to use the full extent of her abilities, because harnessing the elements seemed to take more power than she possessed.

Journal Entry XXIV (2/27/332 ME):

Progress has been exponential since finding a connection with Equestria's ambient magic. Now, the use of pure willpower can formulate snowstorms, rainfall, high speed winds, and just yesterday lightning. Another major discovery from the past week is that using the runes we've discovered thus far makes magic usage more efficient. Below the currently known elemental patterns are documented:

Water (∇)
Air (🜁)
Earth (🜃)
Lightning (+)
Ice (*)

Journal Entry XXXI (5/15/332 ME):

This date marks the discovery of something new that should have never happened. A new type of "elemental' power was discovered that we have dubbed STAR (Supernova with Terribly Adverse Repercussions). We were lucky to stop the spell halfway or else worse things could have happened, but the events of today were still a catastrophe. Our lab was destroyed, and half the ponies within a hundred-foot radius went blind. We were lucky to escape with our lives, as no pony was lost to the spell. The experimenting will have to cease for the sake of public safety. Even for the half second the spell was active before it was dispelled, I felt as though I was being pulled apart. My grip on the world was fading. I will not be including the symbol in my documentation. No pony short of Princess Celestia should wield the power of the sun.

Blazing could have stopped reading since he had found everything related to his magic within the first 31 entries but there were only 2 more entries, so he decided to continue.

Journal Entry XXXII (5/26/332 ME):

I have recovered from my magical exhaustion induced by STAR only to hear that the Dragons have waged war on Equestria. They have already burned some of the outer rural villages to the ground. Situations are getting dire, and I can't help but think my research may be able to save ponies' lives. I don't know what to do, but I'm not going to watch ponies suffer. Princess Celestia has mobilized almost the entirety of the guard, but what will they do against hundreds of dragons? I tried to get my former mentor to put me on the front lines, but she wouldn't allow me into battle. I've decided I'm going anyways to at least slow down the dragon army. I want to say farewell to my research assistants, but they would just tell the princess, so I am acting alone in this. Whatever happens.... whoever reads this... If I die... I'm sorry I didn't say goodbye... Thank you for supporting me over the years after I lost my parents.

Journal Entry XXXIII (5/29/332 ME):

I've been attempting to slow the Dragons attack's down by creating blizzards, and I have downed a few with well-placed lightning bolts, but so far this has only enraged them further. They know I've been striking them from a distance and now I'm sure they are looking for vengeance. They are traveling towards Canterlot and will be there by evening if no-pony can stop them. The thing is I can... I'm just scared to use it again so soon... I'm going to use STAR... I think If I can get close enough and keep the spell activated long enough... I don't know. I'm scared to try for fear of hurting any ponies on the defensive front, but my time is running out. Princess Celestia wants me back in Canterlot and I've witnessed some awful things. I think I need to do it before the dragons get close enough to civilization again where either I destroy things with my spell, or they destroy things with their fire. If you found this book in my camp, please get it to Celestia. Tell her I'm sorry I couldn't be a more dependable student. Tell her... She was like my second family.

Signing off for potentially the last time,

~ Winter Storm (☉)

As Blazing read the name of Winter Storm written in her final moments, his eyes were pulled to the strange symbol after her name. It was the alchemical symbol for the sun. He couldn't unsee it. This was the runic design for another one of Winter's spells. This was the symbol for STAR.

Suddenly Blazing was now fully aware why this book was in this restricted section of the archive. Winter Storm had documented the symbol which she vowed on 5/15/332 not to share. Blazing had seen a symbol capable of creating what he could only assume held as much potential as an atomic bomb.

Chapter 23: Harmony's Warning

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘4:30pm‘

Blazing hadn't even made it to the hallway when he heard the sound of hooves beating on the castle floors. When he exited the archives, solar and lunar guards alike were all hurriedly making their way towards one of the largest rooms in the castle: the throne room. Clearly something else happened while he was swept up in reading about Winter Storm. His mind was racing through the possibilities. "Excuse me mam? What's going on?"

"That's what we're going to find out. Emergency code: infiltrated."

That could only mean one thing, changelings. Blazing began following the guard with whom he was just talking, finding many of the castle staff were going the same way as well. Based on his first and only encounter with changelings, he knew they were one of Equestria's most crafty enemies. It wouldn't make sense for them to attack with any kind of frontal assault like they did previously. This has to be a ploy of some kind. Our focus is being drawn in so many directions. Being unpredictable would mean they will inevitably catch us off guard when they strike where we least expect. When Blazing reached the great hall, he could see hundreds of ponies gathered. The scene reminded him of the ship hangar from Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope, when Solo ran in on thousands of clone troopers. Shining Armor was standing up front and center, flanked by his wife Cadance on one side and Twilight on the other. Once it seemed like everypony that would be present had filed in, Shining Armor spoke.

"Alright everypony listen up! Every suspicion you have is probably true. Towns all across Equestria have been reporting changelings and missing ponies for the last 15 minutes."

"We have a code infiltrated." Nearly everypony in the room reacted to the news by either gasping, flinching, or mumbling amongst themselves.

Captain Armor continued, "You all have been trained for this moment. Large scale screenings will begin immediately. Work hours will be increasing for all military. Unicorns get your detection spells ready. Border patrol and city patrol teams will be doubling numbers, and anyone posted in the castle will be moving to these positions to compensate. I want my best investigators searching for any missing ponies. I need my drill sergeants prepared to train five hundred new troops by the end of the week. Is everything clear?" A chorus of yes sirs rang out except from one of the earth pony stallions in charge of training new recruits.

"Captain Armor sir, where are we going to get five hundred new ponies?!"

"I'm glad you asked. Tonight, the Princesses will be giving a public address in Canterlot which will be sent out to the entire population. A small-scale draft has been decided upon. Now, more than ever we want ponies everywhere to be keeping a close eye on their neighbors to ensure the safety of the people. We are in a level 1 shelter warning; meaning be prepared in case fighting breaks out against the changelings to move civilians to close quarter shelters for their safety. Now if there are no further questions, I'm going to hand it over to Princess Twilight who has put together special task forces. She is hereby in command of tactics for outsmarting the opposition." As Shining finished speaking, he stepped back, and Twilight stepped forwards.

"Thanks, but before we continue any further, I'd like everypony present to give us a few seconds." The Princesses on stage, as well as Celestia and Luna, who had somehow managed to not draw much attention at the back corners of the room lit their horns and performed a large-scale detection spell which washed over the ponies present. They all nodded, giving Twilight the go ahead.

"Thanks for your patience. Since there are no changeling drones present in the crowd, we can continue. Chrysalis is no doubt involved in coordinating the attack on Equestrian citizens. We also have strong evidence to suggest her timing coincides with the attack on Ponyville last night, as well as Sombra showing himself earlier this week. We have multiple plans in the works for counteracting the enemy, but what we currently lack is intel. We are severely in the dark about what we're up against and what their plans are. Those in charge of the opposition have avoided showing themselves. We would like to keep our cards close to our chest also. That's why we have planned our own infiltration force made up of changelings that have long since denounced their allegiance to Chrysalis' hive. They will attempt to tap into the hive both physically and mentally to garner information. There is also other news which is slightly more encouraging.

Earlier today, Princess Celestia secretly reached out to the Gryphon Empire and to the neighboring nations of Prance and Saddle Arabia for their military support. They have all agreed on a deal for various goods and land in exchange for their services. They will be stationed in areas that are farther from the capital where our forces will be lacking. Manehattan, Fillydelphia, and Las Pegasus to name a few places. I also need 6 well trained ponies to accompany me in confirming the caves below Canterlot are still sealed." From the look on Shining and Cadance's face and their slight weight shifts, this entire military meeting must have been a spur of the moment thing because they clearly hadn't talked about all these details yet. Even Twilight had hints of nerves showing through her brave face.

Twilight continued presenting her last-minute strategizing while simultaneously throwing in bits of encouragement to the troops but Blazing lost focus when something tapped him on the back. He was currently standing near the entrance of the room, and when he turned his head, nothing was behind him. He tried to go back to listening, but the same feeling came again when he tried to return his attention to the front. Certain somepony was messing with him, he moved a few steps towards the door to give the hallway a quick glance. It was completely empty of ponies. Shrugging, he began moving back to his original spot, but before he did, he heard a voice that sounded as though it was whispering directly into his head. For a moment, all other sounds around him became inaudible. "Be warned, tonight, when the moon is at its peak, creatures will return from the Everfree." The voice was unlike any he had heard before. The source was still unknown, but something about it made him feel compelled to share the message. When Sombra was trying to control him, Blazing was watching himself do things he didn't want to do. This was nothing like that. The voice in his head made him feel like he wanted to do something, not that he had to. Twilight still hadn't stopped talking, but now Blazing was aware of her speech again.

"-and furthermore, plans could change at any moment's notice as we try to adapt, so communication will be very important. I will be showing unicorn commanding officers how to use a messaging spell so that if anything happens capable of changing the course of this war, everypony knows what to prepare for."

As soon as Twilight said messaging spell, Blazing felt Déjà vu. He'd never heard of the spell, but he was 90% sure that's what he had just experienced. The question was, who used it, and why did it feel like he needed to act on it?

"I think that's everything I had planned on talking about. Any questions?"

Blazing wasn't sure why, but he started moving through ponies towards the front almost on autopilot. His actions didn't go unnoticed. A handful of guards glanced in his direction as he passed. Many of them had their eyes fixed on something in particular. He didn't notice the stares. His attention was on Twilight. He really wanted to tell her what the voice in his head just said. It felt like he was doing something important!

Nopony had offered any questions but before the assembly was dismissed Twilight had noticed Blazing moving through the crowd. He was half-way to the front of the great hall by this point. Twilight, very confused by his actions, figured he must have had something on his mind.

"Did you have a question, Blazing Waters?" All eyes in the room turned towards whomever Twilight was looking at. The ponies nearest to Blazing in particular were all focused on one strange thing about the stallion.

"No, but I bring an important message from Harmony! The attack that came out of the everfree last night will be happening again tonight, when the moon is at its highest." He couldn't remember knowing anypony by the name of Harmony, but strangely that part just slipped out of his mouth.

"How do you..." Twilight stopped talking when she noticed something flashing on Blazing. Nothing was on his face, mane, or horn. It was actually his backside that was starting to draw more attention. Blazings cutie mark was flashing the way her own had when they first met. The Tree of Harmony which now doubled as her residence had, according to Blazing, warned him about an impending danger. The wildest part about the claim was that with his cutie mark flashing, it was nearly impossible not to believe him. Harmony had assigned him a friendship mission? No this had to be more than that. Her look of confusion had the effect of making Blazing rethink his actions.

"I'm sorry Princess Twilight, I don't know what came over me to bring up such nonsense and-"

"Blazing, look at your cutie mark." Blazing had thought his heart was beating so intensely that he could feel it pulsing through his body, but when he turned his head at the request of Twilight to view his glorified butt tattoo, it looked different than he expected. His cutie mark was flashing in time with the pulsing feeling he felt flowing through him. Blazing didn't know how to respond. The moment felt rather overwhelming due to the amount of attention he was getting, but Luna chose to speak at this time, bringing a majority of the attention off Blazing to where she stood.

"He's right. The Nightmare was responsible for the events of last night. It appeared before me today with every intention of destroying my morale. It also taunted one of my lead officers mid-battle. The Nightmare is a powerful spirit but also very predictable, especially for me. It will almost always try to weaken its opponents physical or mental strength enough to overpower them when they are unable to fight back. A repeated attack would be precisely its plan to weaken us."

"So, we shield against the attack. Ponyville is much smaller than Canterlot. I could form a stronger barrier around it then when I shielded Canterlot from the changeling invasion. We could save significant pony strength if only a few unicorns had to accompany me to fortify the shield. That way everypony stationed here could remain to deal with the changeling threat." The captain of the royal guard wasted no time in offering a defense plan. Cadance was now looking between Twilight and Shining, visibly concerned, worrying about their dangerous spur of the moment planning. Beyond just her, it was obvious other ponies in the room also disagreed with that plan of action.

Stone Wall, an earth pony serving as one of the commanding officers vocalized the shared concern many had. "Captain, what happens if you can't hold them back and they don't stop attacking the shield? The number of rare creatures that came from the everfree last night and their organization almost overpowered a quarter of our forces. That fact, along with the size of some of them is concerning to say the least. We can't afford to lose you.”

"I appreciate your concern, but what choice do we have? We don't have the resources to use offense as a form of defense if things continue to go how they did last time."

"Actually... that's not entirely true. I don't know if we could have it ready by tonight, but some of my projects are going to be given to the Canterlot Department of Magical Research, and a few of the compounds I accidentally made... are kind of... reactive? Heh. Depending on if their use is approved, I could probably arm the troops we sent to Ponyville from Cloudsdale, with something that would make for a crazy surprise to the Nightmare armies. Either that or we could give some poison joke a try?"

Shining quietly spoke to Twilight saying, "Will talk" and then he looked back out towards the assembly.

"We have wasted too much of your time already. Trust each other and we will get through this. Unless personally assigned by us to a specific mission, your officers will lead you well. You are dismissed!"

"6 ponies for a scouting mission, and sending yourself as one of them? What are you expecting to find down there?" Twilight and her brother were in the middle of an intense discussion, (definitely not an argument) and Shining was questioning Twilight's plans. They continued to go back and forth, with Twilight being next to get a word in.

"Since when have changelings ever just waltzed around disguised as ponies without taking their place, hmm? They had to get into Canterlot somehow, but all the major entrances have detection spells built into them. My reasoning makes total sense! And what about you? Putting the fate of Ponyville on your back? I can't believe you'd take that risk!"

"Somepony has to. We can't keep this up forever."

"Which is why we need to save our strength for the critical moments."

"You know as well as I do that we can't stand back and do nothing when ponies' lives are at stake. That's why you volunteered to go on your own mission."

"I guess you're right." Twilight responded dejectedly. “I just wish this wasn't so hard Shiny. I've never had to do anything like this before. Bossing ponies around when they are only with us because they desire to serve Equestria. It's just... Why do we get to decide their fate?"

"I know Twilight, it's a lot of responsibility. This won't be the last time you have to deal with this as a Princess either. Regardless, I'm here for you." Shining wrapped her sister in a big hug to support her. The two of them were currently alone in a small waiting room just to the side of the throne room. As they continued to lean into each other, three knocks lightly sounded on the entrance. They ended the embrace and Shining walked over and opened the door. Blazing was waiting outside along with the rest of the mane six.

"Sorry for interrupting, but I had several more things I needed to tell Twilight about as soon as possible and I'll try to make them fast." Blazing then looked at the ponies gathered next to him. "Also Rainbow, Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Applejack told me that they had important requests for Twilight as well, however, none of them would share the details until we were here."

Twilight was happy to see her friends' faces and was genuinely curious as to what they all had on their minds. The elements of harmony and Blazing looked back and forth between each other to see who was going to speak first, since none of them knew what the others had come to talk about. Then, as if on cue, they all spoke simultaneously.

"I want to volunteer myself to go with you." Magic really works strangely, doesn't it? Blazing couldn't believe his ears when all five other ponies he entered with said the exact same thing he had. The words were the slightest bit different, but the premise was still the same; they all volunteered to go on Twilight's mission. Not only was that an insane coincidence to Blazing, but there were also exactly six of them.

"Of course! You're in! There are no ponies I trust more!"

"I almost forgot... one more thing Twilight" Blazing started. "Today I found the elemental runic symbols for air, earth, lightning, and ice." Blazing left out any mentioning of the STAR symbol, figuring that was for the better.

"You did what?!"

"I haven't had a chance to try them yet but..."

"That's AMAZING Blazing! I want all the details. How did you learn them? What do they look like? I want to test them right away!" Twilight continued talking as excited as ever about magic, all the while her friends just smiled at her antics. Blazing didn't even have a chance to answer her questions. They were coming so fast.

"That's our favorite egghead", Rainbow Dash teased, and for a short while the war was forgotten. Friends were just being friends, and Blazing was enjoying every minute of Twilights excitement. They all laughed and shared in the moment. Kindness, laughter, loyalty, honesty, generosity, and magic were all together, and their love for one another ran deep. Blazing and Shining didn't feel left out in any way either.

They were filled with great hope, confident that they would have each other's backs all the way.

Chapter 24: Counterplays

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘4:50pm‘

Ponies were hard at work scouring for changelings, getting testimonies to search for missing individuals, and informing the populace of the shelter warning as well as the Princess' public address scheduled for 6:00pm. With all the guards having their hooves full, the castle was emptier than it had been in hundreds of years.

Earlier today, when Twilight returned to Canterlot, she brought Spike back with her. He had been impacted greatly by the battle, and was glad to be back with Twilight, but he missed Wiz Frame as well. They had both saved each other's lives and formed a bond of trust that wouldn't be easily broken. Who knew a single night could have so much impact on one's life?

As for Twilight's friends, Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie volunteered to prepare supplies for the mission they planned to embark on this evening. Rarity would probably prepare the kitchen sink, Pinkie would bring the unexpected items, and Applejack would provide the balance with her practicality. Rainbow Dash had caught word the Wonderbolts would be flying around the city limits to cover for the reassigned border patrols, so not to be outdone, she offered to help them until the Mane six and Blazing planned to leave. That left Fluttershy, Twilight, and Spike to watch Blazing test his latest discovery. The short window of time would also help Twilight get her research and notes shipped to the Canterlot division of magical development.

Her brother was still going to go through with shielding Ponyville, despite her and Cadance's objections, so she would make sure he, and the ponies from Cloudsdale were as prepared as possible. He was insistent that he would protect the citizens of Equestria and return to his wife and daughter. Shields were a big part of his special talent, and this was his destiny. Before Shining departed for Ponyville he agreed on using both the mana blasters as well as some carefully sealed poison joke, but little else was able to be prepared on short notice. He also would give a speech during the princesses' address, encouraging ponies to join the force regardless of the draft. The troops would already have their own weapons and armor, so more than anything else, the reinstated Captain would need to be prepared to coordinate the defenses and lead with authority.

If things weren't already chaotic enough, transportation services were hectically having to make trips all over the place. The royal chariots were working overtime with all the ponies and items that were moving between the capital and Ponyville, and the trains in between weren't much better having been shut down to the general public in order to bring ponies from Ponyville to Canterlot for their safety. If the small town was going to be a continued battlefield, it wouldn't be safe for the families to remain where they would be in harm's way.

For Blazing, the most entertaining thing from the day so far was watching Twilight furiously take notes while he explained and tested some of what he learned in the archives, again purposely leaving out any details about STAR.

"From my understanding, the runes are meant to make elemental spell casting more efficient, but in theory any one of these spells could be created with will power alone."

"Hold on... but all spells require a weave of some sort to fulfill its designed purpose. What do you mean you can use pure willpower?"

"Well since my cutie mark is a depiction of fire, ice, lightning and water raining down from the clouds, I get the impression that I should be able to harness them all simply because magic wills it that way. My mind must be capable of automatically completing the spell without having to put as much effort into learning it. I don't really have proper evidence yet, except from the short time I've been here it has taken less time to learn control over the elements."

"That sounds scary," said Fluttershy.

"But also cool!” Spike added.

"Alright Twilight... I'm going to now attempt to use the power of the winds, but first I'm going to feel for Equestria's ley-lines. I remember having sensed them back in the forest when I had to focus my energy to overcome Sombra."

"I can sense magic , but in all my years, I have never dreamt of feeling ley-lines. What's it like?" Twilight asked.

Blazing had his eyes closed and his horn alighted gold as he stood motionless in the training grounds. This was where he first arrived in this odd world. He barely remembered the events after teleporting through the void between worlds, but the area still reminded him of the memory. Time continued to pass, but Blazing was experiencing a calmness washing over him that cleared his mind. The ley-lines flowed with pure mana permeating the air and skies. They were like streams bending around and passing through every material thing. He even felt a few passing through himself, which he attempted to redirect towards his horn bending them to his will. The feeling was almost overwhelming. A strength was felt that wasn't there before. The feeling was that of being energized before a race or refreshed by a cold drink on a hot day. In the moment he was reminded of God's goodness regardless of life's circumstances. Blazing took a moment to thank God for his provisions, and the opportunity to serve the ponies in need of his help. He also prayed for protection in the trials ahead.

When he opened his eyes, he was met with an expectant Twilight.

"Well? It must have felt like something, right?"

"I'm sorry Twilight. If you had said something I must have missed it. It was like experiencing a sixth sense. A very serene sixth sense." Blazing paused briefly before continuing his description. "The world had a different perspective to it. I was reminded that I should take a moment to pray, and I didn't realize how much I needed it. For the first time since arriving, I would almost be ready to talk about my home now." Twilight was very caught off guard by what Blazing said. She had been wanting to ask him questions about it since he got here, but it would still have to wait. Unfortunately, she had to be reminded that there were more pressing matters than learning about an alien race.

"As much as I've been wanting to hear all about that... I'll try to refrain from asking about Earth so that we can keep this magic practice going, but if there's anything in particular you wanted to share, I would be very interested to hear about it. On a side note, I know a few self-defense spells I'd like to teach you after you've had a chance to experiment with the remaining runes you came across. Which reminds me that you'll have to tell me how you discovered them once things start to settle back down."

"A mare as smart as you may figure it out before I get a chance. You may also have to ask Princess Celestia about it. I'm not sure how much I can say, but I'm sure she would share if you asked. Anyways... I think I have a better feel for ambient magic now. I'm going to start with trying to control the winds." Blazing began spell casting and wanted a clear goal for what he was trying to make the rune do. He envisioned an air-bender using the winds to move through the skies.

"Um... Twilight? Should we be standing this close?" Fluttershy inquired.

"Don't worry Fluttershy, I've prepared different shield spells just as a precaution. I'm prepared for all possibilities." Twilight's confidence in her own magical abilities was clear from her latest statement.

Twilight was not prepared for when Blazing launched off the ground eight feet into the air and frankly neither was Blazing. Caught off guard by the sudden change in atmosphere that propelled him upwards, he lost his concentration on the spell he was casting and began falling back down. His own abilities surprised him so much that his body wasn't responding to the fall. Twilight in her fast thinking wrapped Blazing in her telekinesis, catching him before he impacted the ground. His face had already met dirt in this field one too many times.

"Are you alright?" Fluttershy asked.

"I'm fine I think... That's going to take a lot of practice..."

The practice session continued, with Blazing deciding to leave the air for a later time. He had great success creating lightning and ice blasts, but the latest thing he was practicing was proving to be quite difficult, maybe even impossible. He had little idea what the power over earth should do, and he also didn't have a clear vision of what he wanted it to do. Having made the rune several times over with no results he was beginning to think this spell may have been outside his abilities. He continued to try to no avail. Previously he had felt magic actively responding to his thoughts, the earth however, obviously didn't want to listen to Blazing.

"Hmmm... and things had been coming so naturally... I don't think I can manipulate the Earth. I just didn't feel any connection to anything when I tried to use the spell."

"The possibilities with everything else you did is a huge breakthrough though! No reason to be disappointed. What you accomplished in such a short time is amazing!"

"Thanks Twilight. We should go eat before the big speech. I know you had wanted to show me some things, but my stomach is telling me it's getting close to that time."

"You're right. Let's get the girls together for a nice meal before tonight. Maybe I can finally convince you to try some flowers, hmm Blazing?"

"No chance Princess."

"You did file to be an official citizen... so technically I can make a royal command for you to do it."

"You wouldn't."

"Oh, but I could."

"Well... its been fun, Fluttershy, Spike, but I will be having Discord send me home now." Blazing nodded towards them both completely ignoring Twilight as he began walking back towards the castle.

"You're no fun." Twilight commented. Then she started getting nervous because Blazing didn't turn back or say anything. "Blazing? I won't force you to do anything I-"

"-Gotcha" Blazing said, turning his head over his shoulder with a smirk on his face. "I guess that means I win this round and there will be no flowers tonight." Blazing laughed a little at how fun it was to experience Twilight trying to be sarcastic when she was so serious about most things. Twilight took the opportunity to 'chase' after Blazing Waters, feeling a little silly at how easily she had thought she had pushed him over the edge with something she said. Fluttershy and Spike all the while just looked at each other, trying and failing not to read too much into the interaction.

Maybe I should try that with Rarity, thought Spike. Not wanting to be left behind, Spike and Fluttershy followed their friends towards the dining hall.

‘6:00pm‘

Celestia stepped to the front of the castle balcony overlooking the main square. It was filled with thousands of ponies. In her royal Canterlot voice, her voice was amplified enough for everypony to hear.

"Citizens of Equestria, My Little Ponies, the state of our national defense is being tested. I know there is much fear, especially now with the disappearances happening all over, but everypony matters. We will fight to rescue every last missing pony!" A cheer went through the crowd. As it settled down Celestia continued. "We will do everything in our power to prevent being surprised again. Now more than ever I know you have concerns. I'd like to reassure you that if we come together for the common goal of protecting those we love, we can make it through this. Already we have resources and troops coming in from other nations to defend what we stand for, to defend harmony! Responsibilities have been delegated in order that we may continue to serve you and reopen court to hear your requests. We are hopeful that with our best ponies working hard, we will recover stronger than ever."

Shining Armor then moved forward to begin his segment of the address, which unfortunately would be something ponies wouldn't want to hear. "Currently the guard is doing what it can, but we simply cannot protect every city without more of you fighting alongside us. Which is why we've had to make a difficult choice. Something that hasn't been done in almost a millennium will be reinstated. 500 ponies between the age of 20 and 30 will be receiving draft papers in the mail to serve in guard. The fate of Equestria may very well need your special talents. Our enemies will not get the chance to usurp the throne and bring about ruin. Even if you aren't drafted, your service could still make the difference in this war. The princesses have agreed that you shouldn't be kept in the dark even if that means our enemies will know that we are aware of them. Chrysalis, Sombra, and the Nightmare are all confirmed to be back, and we have suspicions to believe their actions are not isolated events, but rather collaboration. We will fight for you. I will fight for you. the question is... who else will take a stand for what we know and love?"

Shining stepped back from the front and embraced his wife. The reaction from the crowd towards the message was mixed. No doubt some ponies would be upset with the developments, but others were proud to be citizens of Equestria with such driven leaders; Leaders that ruled from the front lines and not just from a throne. Leaders that would be willing to make difficult decisions. There was stomping and more cheering from the crowds below. The Princesses had never failed them before, so they felt confident putting their trust in the ponies standing on the balcony, which included all of the Princesses, The Mane Six, Shining Armor, and towards the back just out of sight from the crowds, Blazing Waters.

‘7:00pm‘

The time had come for The Mane Six, Blazing, and Spike (at Twilight's request) to make a trip down to the sealed tunnel entrances under Canterlot. Somehow Spike had ended up carrying all of the things Rarity thought of bringing. Fluttershy would have offered to help him, but her wing still hadn't fully recovered from Sombra damaging it. Pinkie Pie had her usual bounce to her step despite where they were headed. Rainbow Dash was talking with Applejack, which left Blazing talking with Twilight. "Twilight, I was just thinking... how did you get your cutie mark?"

"That's a pretty personal story, but I can tell you it was one of the happiest days of my life, possibly also one of the most embarrassing too. It was the day Celestia asked me to be her personal protege at the school for gifted unicorns. I was trying to hatch a dragon egg using my magic, but I just couldn't do it. Suddenly a rainbow wave filled the sky and I felt raw unbridled magic coursing through me. I did a lot more than hatch the egg, but in the end Celestia recognized my potential and Spike was born from the egg! Any reason in particular for asking?"

"It's become evident the longer I'm here that ponies cutie marks being linked to their destiny is a pretty big deal. I wanted to know what the experience was like for you. Every time I think about my cutie mark all I can think is that Discord already knows a lot more about me then he lets on. I even have gotten the impression that Princess Celestia might know things about me that I don't know yet. It's a scary thought but... I was wondering if they... or even if you could see the future?"

"Maybe, but I wouldn't be so sure. When I tried to warn my past self about something from the future, all I learned is that time loops can't be altered that way. Everything still came to pass as it was meant to. Discord's chaos magic can sometimes break the rules so to speak, but he usually prefers not to mess with things that promote order, time included."

"Yeah, but then I think about all the things he has messed with, and it seems like he is almost chaotically working to maintain order. It’s paradoxical. The Spirit of Chaos evidently is pulling more strings than anyone else involved in this war. Aren't you the slightest bit concerned about his motives?"

"I hadn't thought of it that much until now. We have been trying to trust him more since he became reformed and Fluttershy has tea with him every week, so I can't see what he might want or even if that's a bad thing. Besides causing some trouble for you in the process, it seems like he just genuinely wants to help."

"I'm not convinced, but I'll let that go for now. Do you have any plans for what we might find when we get to the main entrance of these tunnels?"

"Well, if we find they are all still magically sealed then we can head back to the castle and get the rest of the night off to get some needed catch up on sleep. If things are as I'm expecting, we won't find it sealed. If that's the case, we spend the night looking for evidence of changelings and any leads on where they may have taken the missing ponies from Canterlot." upon reaching the cave entrance nearest to the castle it was closed off. The mine that was once in the caves had long since been abandoned. It looked exactly how Twilight had last seen it. Stones had been put in front of it and enchanted with spells that wouldn't allow them to be moved. Her friends were relieved that nothing was out of the order, but Twilight wasn't convinced. She felt magic was still present, but the spell weave wasn't what she was expecting. "Blazing do me a favor and try to levitate one of those stones."

"I can't seem to get a hold of it."

"That's because it's not there and neither is the spell that prevents tampering. This wall is an illusion."

"This is the spell you used in your lab." Spike was amazed that he could now see evidence of the illusion and he knew why Twilight had seen through it; she was familiar with it.

"Similar yes, not quite the same. This one has more flaws." Twilight responded as she used her magic to dispel the illusion. What revealed itself was an expansive cavern going deep under Canterlot. Blazing couldn't help but wonder how this didn't cause the city to collapse from it all caving in. He took a moment to feel for the ley-lines flowing through the cave as they all walked in together. As they carefully made their way several steps into the cavern, something felt off. Some of the magic was bending as if it was interacting with other magical creatures besides their group. "Wait!" Blazing quietly but intensely whispered. "We're not alone."

"Pinchy knee! Pinchy Knee!" Pinkie Pie couldn't help herself from sharing her Pinkie sense with the group.

"What does that mean?" Blazing being the only one in the group who didn't know meant the other ponies and Spike were already starting to back their way out of the cave.

"It means something scary is about to happen." Pinkie's answer sounded completely ridiculous to Blazing, but he had already been told by Twilight not to question it. Instead, he followed their lead backing his way out of the cave as well. He ended up backing straight into Applejack who had stopped along with the rest of the group. When they looked towards the entrance, a wall of dark figures were lined up in front of it. Then looking back into the cave where they had originally been heading, they saw even more of them. "We're surrounded" Rainbow Dash spoke what their entire group had been thinking. How could they have known we were going to be here at this time? Blazing's thoughts were interrupted by a sound that scared him, just as Pinkie had foretold.

All the dark figures spoke at once, perfectly on cue. "We've been expecting you." The same voice was coming from every single figure. There had to have been near a hundred. That wasn't the only thing that made it scary. Every single one of them shared a voice Blazing had heard before. The sound of Sombra echoed off the walls as the cave entrance was blocked with a wall of black crystals springing up behind the dark figures. That could only mean one thing: Sombra had not only recovered enough to use magic, but he was also somewhere among the changelings surrounding them.

Chapter 25: All-or-Nothing

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘7:19pm‘

"You're a hard pony to get a meeting with Blazing Waters."

"You've got a lot of nerve showing yourself, Sombra! Why are you here?"

"It's simple really. Every single one of you has stolen something from me: my pride. I've been awaiting my chance for retribution for too long already." It was hard to figure out exactly where Sombra was located due to the light levels and the fact that all the mouths appeared to be moving simultaneously, but what was noticeable was patches of scars and burn marks dotting the gray fur of every changeling close enough to see. Evidently Sombra hadn't fully recovered after all. The front line of changelings were slowly advancing in on the group of friends. The ponies formed a circle to protect each other's blind spots. "Twilight, your detection spell would be real useful right about now." Blazing was scanning over the faces looking for some indication of one being different, but nothing stood out to him. Meeting eyes with one of the Sombra's that had been standing on a higher ledge did something to Blazings perception. The eyes of that Sombra were glowing green.

He was now in a car driving a familiar highway in the cascade mountain range. His older brother John was in the passenger seat, both of them very much human. It was almost midnight. This was the night... They were on their way back from a beach trip. The occasional oncoming car passed by, but for the most part, the only noteworthy things were the light rain and snoring from John. Chase could feel the sensations of the car, but he couldn't change the course that he took. The events had already been set in stone. Coming around a mostly blind corner, Chase was met with headlights coming straight for him. A semi-truck was in his lane, the driver either drunk or asleep. Chases instincts kicked in. He yanked left as fast as he could; going right would have meant colliding with a wall of trees, but his actions were mostly in vain. He was too late to completely avoid the crash.

The truck met the right half of his car. His sleeping brother was helpless against the car crushing in on him from the force of the semi. They were no match for the far heavier truck, getting sent backwards into the embankment on the opposite side of the road. Chase was stuck in what was left of the car with his right arm in great pain and the rest of his body bruised from the seatbelt and airbag, but the built-in safety features had done their job and saved his life. John wasn't so lucky. His body had been crushed, and he now sat limp and motionless. Chase struggled to get out of the car and reach his phone to call for help. All attempts were futile however, because the crush zone of the car had pinched him between the bottom of the steering wheel and the seat. To this day, the feeling of being stuck in the car while John may still have had a chance was his worst fear. He hadn't immediately died on impact, which was a miracle in and of itself, but he didn't make it before the first responders arrived on the scene. Chase felt heavy with dread ever since. What if they hadn't made the trip? Could he have done something different? Was it avoidable? Why did John have to die... it should have been me instead.

Those questions hadn't changed the feelings that were there. Blazing was now stuck experiencing the feeling of being trapped in the car on loop. Sombra had shown him his biggest fear. All the while the changelings were getting close now. Twilight had formed a shield designed for magical attacks that was roughly ten feet in diameter. It provided much-needed light that permeated through the cave. "What are we going to do?" Rarity cried.

"We've dealt with changelings before. We can do this girls." Twilight reassured. "Spike stay behind me... Blazing are you able to keep them at bay for a moment? Blazing? Blazing!" This was not the time for this! He appeared to be in a daze and hadn't moved at the sound of her voice. Looks like something is affecting Blazing. "Pinkie now would be a good time for a surprise party."

"Okie... Dokie... Lokie... Good thing I planned for a lot of guests just in case."

"Rarity, do you have the decorations?"

"As a matter of fact, I do, darling!"

"Applejack, what about the streamers?"

"Yup, I got em."

Twilight had planned for unexpected circumstances, but this was still a bit more than she had anticipated. Nonetheless, her friends had come through and were prepared to respond to her choice words. If there was one thing she knew, it was that her friends were at their best when they got to use their special talents.

The horde of Sombra's began bucking the shield and blasting it with magic. The ones that did use magic were clearly not Sombra because their magic had a green tint to it, whereas Sombra's was often black from dark magic. Twilight's shield was showing little signs of damage since her magical capabilities as an alicorn were so great, but she still was feeling the slow drain of all the attackers impacting her shield at once.

"It's time to do this the hard way." Rainbow shouted. At that que Twilight let down her shield and the Mane six sprang into action. Twilight immediately lit her horn, filling the surroundings with more lighting than before. Pinkie Pie pulled out her party cannon from her mane and fired at the Sombras approaching from the cave entrance. The force of tablecloths, confetti, and cake batter briefly stopped their advance. On the other side, Rainbow Dash truly was doing it the hard way, zipping around a bucking changeling faster than they could respond. Once the surprise wore off, changelings began to react. Sticking to the Sombra persona rather than shape shifting, they activated their horns and performed telekinesis. They grabbed boulders and started hurling them at Twilight and her friends. Others were still trying to move in for hoof-to-hoof combat.

The boulders were handled by Twilight, meeting the levitation with some of her own. She was grabbing them as they got close and flinging them off into the side walls of the abandoned mine. She was also trying to fire back a few stun spells when given an opening. Out of anypony, Rarity and Applejack were probably having the most success. Rarity was levitating various fabrics and threads in her telekinesis, using them as a way to tie up Sombra's that had been pushed close together by Pinkie's party cannon and Dashes martial arts. Applejack was similarly using her lassos to round changelings up as well. She had brought several extra ropes that would probably not have made the best party streamers, but they were serving her well.

Meanwhile, while all this was happening, Blazing was still standing motionless. None of the mane six had come in contact with the real Sombra yet, and Spike was for the most part keeping changelings disguised as 'Sombras' away from Blazing via fire. His flames were running out however, from the physical exhaustion he still felt.

Fluttershy was by no means enjoying all the fighting, but she wasn't helpless either. In fact, she was almost as active as Rainbow Dash! "Stay away from my friends." She was flying about and catching changelings from behind much like she did when she wrestled a bear that needed a massage. Having had experience with fighting changelings during Cadance's wedding, the mane six were doing a good job subduing their adversaries. Even though there had been nearly a hundred of Chrysalis' drones, a majority of them had been dealt with without causing too much harm. Applejack's ropes and Rarities sewing tools were flying and levitating all over the place. Loads of the changelings had been tied up in groups of six or seven. This was made possible by their close proximity to each other. As a result, some of them had become less concerned about playing the role of Sombra imitators. They decided to shift their colors into ones that would help them blend into the walls as a form of camouflage. They were being beaten and evidently Sombra wasn't helping on the front lines, so they began slinking away to escape the fate of their trapped brethren. The mane six watched as every last Sombra retreated deeper into the mines. This was a victory worth celebrating! "Yeah, you better run! That was awesome!" Rainbow Dash cheered.

"Twilight!"

All the elements of harmony had been busy feeling relieved that the battle was over, and they were no worse for wear. It had all happened so fast! Too fast... Spike's cry had been a startling one. The girls, having been watching the changelings retreat, turned around to see a floating Spike and Blazing in the magical grasp of the darkest magic user alive. Sombra had a devilish smirk on his face, He had distracted Twilight and her friends just long enough to make a move from his high vantage point. "I win this round." He vanished in a flash of magic along with the dragon and pony in his grasp. Blazing had his eyes closed, but a tear could be seen streaming down his face.

How could I have been so stupid! Twilight thought. They had been so busy rounding up changelings that she had completely forgotten why all the shapeshifters had looked like Sombra in the first place. They had all known the real Sombra was there and yet she had not once thought to try and focus her attention on finding him with detection spells like Blazing had said. Now there was no way to track them down! Despite all the captured changelings, this made the mood switch instantly from victory to defeat. Being outsmarted by Sombra?! She couldn't believe it. Her number one assistant and her student and newest friend were gone in the blink of an eye. What now? Should they go deeper in the mine after the changelings? Should they abandon this mission and use their efforts to look for lost ponies including Blazing and Spike? I wish Celestia were here... Surely, she would know what to do...

Location: Unknown
Time: Unknown

"I have the Stallion."

"Good... now there will be no surprises when we march on Canterlot. With the Nightmare now involved, they will surely be overwhelmed!"

"And the Crystal Empire? I will be King over all the crystal ponies!"

"Yes, yes. You can have your small reward of the Crystal Empire, but while you enjoy that, I will be Lord over all Equestria! Why stop with just Equestria though? Once that is mine, I will rule all of Equus!"

"Excuse me! Don't you mean we will have Equestria? Or have you forgotten who's drones you and Sombra have been abusing? My children have been sacrificing themselves, slaving away just so you can have the magic of ponies and they can take a little love. If we are working together to claim what is rightfully ours, then I demand my share of the nation!"

A fourth voice coming from the walls joined the other three present in the cavern. "Sorry mortals, but when I have my own body, I will be taking Equus! I will leave you to rule it as you'd like, but I will be the most powerful being on the planet, even greater than Discord! My children will be allowed to roam free and not just in the everfree. Destruction will come on Equestria, and Luna will wish she could come running back to me."

"You can all keep dreaming about what reward you will receive when I defeat Celestia, but I'm going to go take care of more important business. I don't want to keep our prisoners waiting for their demise." He made his way out of the room leaving Chrysalis, Sombra, and the Nightmare to bicker.

Blazing had been constantly dreaming of being stuck in the crashed car, but this time the first responders never showed up. He just wanted to do something! Too much physical and emotional pain had been built-up from the accident already. Unlike when Sombra had tried to mind control Blazing, showing him his worst fear had taken away his awareness of his surroundings. The mind control spell didn't completely block out the brain from having thoughts, while the worst fear ability created a dream or trance-like state until somepony could snap the individual out of it. When Twilight had experienced it for herself in the Crystal empire, hearing her name had been enough to snap her back into reality. Spike, who had begun feeling hopeless having no one to talk to in the stressful environment, had been trying for a while to get Blazing back. He said a multitude of things to Blazing with no luck. It wasn't until Spike said, "Chase" that Blazing twitched. He had moved more than just breathing.

Chase Waters was blaming himself over and over for the wreck he was still stuck in. How could he go on like this?

"Blazing... Blazing, can you hear me?"

Someone was trying to talk to him. Had help arrived to get him out of the car? Except as he started looking around, the car had suddenly vanished. He had been trying to find the source of his savior only to have his surroundings replaced with a cold, dark, damp environment. Worse still, cell bars surrounded him. Blazing, are you back?"

"I'm not sure... This doesn't look much better than what I just left... What happened? Is Twilight alright?”

"I don't know how to answer that... As far as I know, Twilight wasn't captured, but Sombra really played us. The last look I had of Twilight was her look of horror while we were teleported straight here. I don't even know where here is... We need to escape before Sombra gets back!" On que with Spikes comment, hoof falls were clicking against the stone, getting louder by the second. Trying to act fast, Blazing attempted to use his magic to freeze the lock so they could break it off, except nothing was happening. Blazing couldn't figure out why it wasn't working, but the ring on the base of his horn might have something to do with it. His hooves were tied together so there was no reaching the suppression ring before their captor arrived.

"Well... If it isn't just the pony I was looking for, and a dragon no less. You've had my attention ever since your run in with that Ursa, and now we can finally meet! But first... I will be taking something that is rightfully mine... your magic!" The horned centaur with white hair, a black chest, and a lower half resembling a gray horse began absorbing every last drop of magic found in the captives. Spike and Blazing tried to resist, but there was no stopping Tirek. "It was surprising to see Sombra bring you in successfully, but this! This is an unexpected surprise!"

"I'm... Human?" Chase was back to standing on two legs, with no more horn, tail, or fur, to remind him of his ponification. Without magic, Chase wasn't just a pony that had lost their cutie mark. His body had originally been transformed by magic, completely changing the structure of his anatomy, but the only thing that made the form permanent was the complex spell still existing within himself. With all magic being absorbed by Tirek, Chase had reverted to his true self. A form without the ability to store magic internally.

"No wonder our infiltrators reported that Discord couldn't take his eyes off you. Chaotic indeed! I feel even more empowered now! Not even the so-called magic of friendship could help you Human. This world rejects us! Everything I have achieved has been due to hard sacrifices. I've taken what I deserve from this poisonous world after it cursed me with this body calling it a joke.

"The only joke here is you, Tirek. Thinking you stand a chance against the elements of harmony after last time is foolish talk. Twilight and her friends-"

"Quit talking boy! I could pulverize your fragile body with all the magic I have stored up from the captured ponies. I will refrain for now just to show you why it was foolish of you to side with the ponies! Power is freedom, not friendship! You will be some of the first to see Equestria when it's in ruins!" A few changelings began approaching the fuming centaur from a tunnel leading away from the cell. "Put them with the others! I want them out of my sight." The changelings moved in and grabbed Spike and Chase in their magic, pushing them in the direction they had just come from, but not before fixing Chase's restraints and stealing a little love, sapping some of the energy from the captives. Tirek, the former-human-turned-centaur, was growing stronger already from all the magic he had stolen. It was only a matter of time before he was ready... and then the real battle would begin.

Chapter 26: Persistence

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘7:30pm‘

Within the walls of Canterlot castle, Celestia was all alone, sitting on a cushy armchair in the heart of her private study. The normally comfortable chair wasn't very relaxing to the solar princess, who was busy contemplating Equestria's current state of affairs. With her eyes closed she took several deep breaths. The thoughts that plagued her needed answers. Her ponies had always known her to have the answers. There were many questions on her mind, but the certainties were as follows: Chrysalis, Sombra, and The Nightmare were back, likely working together. Based on her vision, Tirek would no doubt also be involved to some degree, even if he wasn't directly collaborating with the others. A large portion of the guard was either preparing defensive fronts or searching for missing ponies. Twilight, Blazing, and Shining Armor were entrusted with positions to command troops, and they were now putting themselves on the front lines. Ponyville would be attacked again, and the citizens of the small community had almost all been relocated to hotels in Canterlot, save a few who had decided to stay behind to help the Cloudsdale unit defend their homes. All and all, it was at least reassuring to know preparation efforts were in place.

The certainties were nice, but the Princess was not content with circumstances for several reasons. They lacked momentum in the war, pony spirits weren't high, and Discord had been way too influential in her decision making. Whatever game Discord was playing lacked proper reasoning for why they should do as he says. She felt deep down that he was right on some level (hence why she listened to his requests thus far), but The Spirit of Chaos just didn't make much sense. Ideas like, Twilight should organize troops, Blazing should be given royal backing, as well as transforming the former human into a pony and claiming he would be Equestria's best chance going forward were pretty outlandish. "Discord if you can hear me, I need answers." The silence that greeted her was discouraging. She waited for nearly a minute. Perhaps answers would have to wait for another time.

"I'll tell you Celestia, but I can only tell you, my way." Discord materialized in front of Celestia.

"No playing around Discord. You said that to me the day you stole the elements of harmony. This is the fate of Equestria we're dealing with, so the matter is serious."

"Serious indeed. So serious in fact that I cannot intercede with more than just information until the time is right. Moving too soon would be costly, much like when Tirek tricked me. If you need reassurance, then know that the possible futures I've seen are not all favorable without certain events playing out. I am simply using my efforts to push you in the right direction."

"You claim to know the future, yet to know such a thing in its entirety is impossible even for you. How could I trust whether or not the things you have told me are true?"

"Short of asking the element of honesty, you can't. You're right of course that I can't see everything. For now, I will chalk it up to mastery over time and friends in high places if you catch my drift." Celestia was preparing to ask another question when Discord spoke again. "I'm afraid questioning further would not be of benefit for you, as I cannot divulge the specifics. Trusting me moving forward will be a decision you'll have to make for yourself. Ta Ta for now." Discord didn't give Celestia a chance to respond. He vanished into thin air. In his place sat a small trinket. It was a golden ring with a 6-sided diamond star as the centerpiece. It was an unusual item to be left in Discord's place, considering he usually made some kind of chaotic explosion when leaving, but the purpose behind it would have to wait for a later time because there was no immediate indication as to what it was for. Knowing Discord, it could have no purpose, and that would perfectly fit his chaotic nature. For now, she put it aside just in case a time presented itself where the ring would be of use.

Discord had only been gone for a few moments before a knock came at her door.

"Your Majesty, Princess Twilight Sparkle has returned and requested your presence immediately. She is currently waiting in the throne room." Came the voice of Sunflower, Celestia's personal assistant.

"Thank you, Sunflower. I appreciate you bringing this to my attention so quickly."

‘7:32‘

* Abandoned Canterlot Mines *

"Twilight mah thought is we ought to get some help bringin' these changelings back to the other princesses. They might just be our best lead for findin' out where the captured ponies are. They might help us find Spike and Blazing too."

"That's a great idea, Applejack. We have no time to waste. Rainbow, can you find the closest guards and inform them that we have found a number of changelings here. You can meet us at the castle."

"On it!"

The Changeling had been struggling at their restraints, and Pinkie had been keeping a real close eye on any that tried to shapeshift out of them, but Twilight knew they couldn't wait around for guards to arrive. "Girls, I think I'm going to perform a mass teleport. The sooner we can get the other Princesses involved the better. everypony get together... Ready?" In a flash the remainder of the group, along with the changelings were teleported to the throne room of the castle. Twilight felt the onset of a migraine in the base of her horn, but she wasted no time in catching her breath. The room they now found themselves in was empty of anypony besides a janitor, preparing the area for night court. The popping sound of the teleport caused him to drop his mop, and he was visibly shaking a little from the surprise of seeing them all appear. "Sorry for surprising you like that sir, but can you please get a message to Princess Celestia. We need her help as soon as possible."

Without responding, the frightened staff member left the room in a hurry. He almost tripped over his own hooves as he went through the door. "Ah do hope that means yes." Applejack voiced. While they waited, Twilight was relieved about two things. One, none of these changelings seemed to be able to teleport like the one disguised as a guard had, and two they hadn't been making as much effort to escape now that they were no longer in the cave. Twilight wasn't sure she could handle all the changelings at once now that she had used so much of her magic stores. Thankfully they weren't kept waiting long. Celestia came briskly through the main entry, flanked by two guards. Both of the ponies tasked with protecting Celestia took up defensive positions when they saw the captured members of Chrysalis' hive.

"Private Strong, please escort the changelings to the dungeons, and inform the lunar guard you will be needing a few of them to assist you with transport and interrogation procedures." One of the two guards assigned to Celestia broke off and began fulfilling his orders. With that out of the way, Celestia focused her attention on Twilight and her friends. They looked upset, and were also without Rainbow, Spike, or Blazing. "Where are the others?"

"Rainbow will be here shortly. She went straight to the guard with what we encountered." Twilight was hesitant to continue talking, so Celestia probed further.

"And the others?"

Since this was clearly an uncomfortable topic for the entire group, Applejack came to the rescue by being the one to share. "Sombra caught us by surprise. They were gone in the blink of an eye."

"Not to mention every changeling was disguised to look like Sombra too." Pinkie added.

"There were close to a hundred changelings down there and we only dealt with half of them at the most. Based on the way that they were fighting, it's hard to think this wasn't their goal all along." Twilight found the courage to say.

Celestia was trying to make sense of the situation described, but that was proving difficult. Discord had just finished saying to trust him, and now his off-world VIP was in the hands of the enemy. Blazing didn't deserve any of this, she thought.

"We will find them. For now, Applejack and Rarity, I'm sure you want to see your sisters. They arrived at the castle along with Scootaloo shortly after you left. No doubt they will still be a little shaken up. As for the rest of you, worrying about Spike and Blazing won't bring them back tonight. If I hear any news from the troops searching or from our interrogations, I will keep you informed, but for now get some needed rest. It's best we are prepared for whatever tomorrow will bring." The element bearers began their leave, but before Twilight made it out the door she turned around.

"Princess, I'm not sure how well I'll sleep knowing that my brother is out there fighting."

"He won't be alone. Cadance has refused to let him go without lending some of her love magic to strengthen his shield, and the ponies from Cloudsdale have a lot to fight for considering they're one of the closest neighboring cities to Ponyville. Luna is also sending a contingent of Lunar guards to help. They refused to sit on the sidelines now that they are the most knowledgeable for what to expect. I can have Luna check in on your dreams, if that would ease your stress any."

"No... Thanks, but that won't be necessary. I'm really just worried with the thought of something happening to Shining after what happened to Blazing and Spike. I think I will be ok."

"Okay, but if anything else comes up, I will be here for you Twilight. Just promise me you will talk to somepony if your feelings of anxiety continue. Take one thing at a time and we will all get through this."

"Thanks, Celestia. I'll do my best."

"That's all I could ever ask."

‘11:59 p.m.‘

The cool spring night was devoid of any sound. It was only a matter of time before The Nightmare unleashed her wrath on Ponyville again. The streets of Ponyville were empty. The lights were all off. The area looked undefended from the naked eye. A thick black cloud-cover hovered above the small town, not a drop of precipitation had fallen. The clock tower struck 12, but as soon as it stopped ringing the silence continued. A short breeze picked up, rustling the trees from the forest. At 12:01 a.m., the ground began to quake. Chimeras were the first to break the tree line, mixed with more timberwolves, manticores, and cockatrice. The Basilisk and Hydras hadn't returned, but the Chimeras were a new edition. The cause of the ground shaking was also quickly apparent as the same family of ursa's had returned for more destruction, despite having left on their own accord the day before.

At the first sign of hostiles from the forest, a shield was erected that enveloped the entirety of Ponyville. The creatures continued their savage charge, feral looks in their eyes, unfazed by the glowing wall of defense. When they were approximately fifty feet from the barrier surrounding the small community, a crackling sound could be heard coming from above. One of the cockatrices had looked up just in time to get a lightning bolt to the face, its stare doing nothing to penetrate through the thick clouds. With the first cockatrice crashing to the ground from the electrifying blow, the battle had begun. Lightning and blasts of mana were raining down from the skies onto the unsuspecting attackers, throwing those nearby off their footing and taking out the ones unlucky enough to get hit by the force.

A group of Pegasus had begun dropping the contents of their crates, spilling concentrated poison joke on the fields, and over the heads of the ursa's. The plant oils had been modified for more immediate results. The one ursa major was almost tall enough that its head poked through the clouds, so it didn't take long for the plant to make contact. The effects of the poison joke were near instantaneous. The Ursa's began to shrink in size and muscle mass, making them significantly less threatening. The poison joke spread over the field of smaller monsters wasn't quite as effective. Some of the timberwolves became permanently lit on fire, but they weren't burning. A few of the chimeras that came in contact with the stuff sprouted wings. One of the manticores had its fur turned into quills like a porcupine. For the most part, the only things unaffected were the creatures that didn't come into contact with any of the poison joke, or the cockatrice's, which were seemingly immune to its effects.

Things were looking great for the Clousdale unit. Captain Armors initial strategy was going swimmingly, and they had been untouched by the grounded monsters below. Knowing their opponent's next move had been a huge benefit! The clouds were densely packed for the lightning, and they had a very defensible position despite being outside the shield. The visibility was perfect for a Pegasus but not for everything else. In the ensuing chaos below, a large number of monsters that hadn't been hit by any of the attacks from above had reached the shield. They pounded against it, but it remained strong, Shining Armor unfazed by the blows. With the largest threat being the Ursa's now having been dealt with, the troops weren't about to relax or let their guard down. They had used a large portion of their air-strike materials, but they still had crossbows and spears. As they were reloading to send their next volley of shots, cries rang out from one corner of the cloud. The source of the screams was a pair of ponies that had collapsed on the clouds having taken magic blasts to the chest. The leader of the squadron immediately yelled "ambush!" but he had yet to see where the shots had come from. As the Cloudsdale guard scanned the black skies above, silhouettes were finally spotted overhead flying in front of the moon.

"Enemy inbound, three o'clock!" As soon as one of the Pegasus from the group called out the enemies' position, green blasts came down like fire from above from the specified direction. Changelings, with black chitin exteriors had entered the battle. As soon as it looked like pony efforts were making headway below, they now found themselves outnumbered and out of position from attacks above. In a chariot near the opposite corner of the cloud a unicorn guard from the lunar forces had begun performing a messaging spell. Her thoughts were sent to Shining Armor as the spell was completed. The message was this: Our first push was a complete success, but the second push has been halted. We may have to fall back to your position. The Queen's forces have arrived.

Chapter 27: Night of Broken Glass

Location: Unknown
Time: Unknown

After being led through a maze of tunnels, Chase and Spike were shoved through a thick barred door. The large cavern they now found themselves in only had one escape which had just closed behind them. A human and a dragon in a sea of ponies. A majority of the ponies looked depressed and weary. Some were looking thin as well, likely from going several days unfed. The atmosphere was the polar opposite of a Pinkie party. It was all so wrong. Most everypony was lying around on the stone floor keeping to themselves, lacking a cutie mark, awaiting the hour they no longer had the strength to go on. Chase felt like he hadn't slept in two days, but since he had lived over 20 years of his life without magic, he was doing better than most.

When the changelings had thrown in the latest prisoners, ponies glanced over towards the door. Some looked mildly surprised at the sight of Chase, but others didn't react at all despite his alien appearance. Several hundred ponies were all victim to the same fate. First Sombra, then Tirek, now this! Equestria really is doomed "I'm sorry Spike... I shouldn't have let this happen. I shouldn't have fallen for Sombra's tricks. I shouldn't have hesitated to stop Tirek from draining our magic. I shouldn't have-" Chase was abruptly cut off by Spike.

"Stop Chase! Just stop! This isn't your fault! Even Twilight doesn't have the answers all the time, so stop trying to think you have to fix everything on your own."

"You don't understand! Discord brought me here to do just that! I can't even fix my own issues let alone Equestria's if I'm stuck in here!"

"Maybe your right and I don't understand because I'm just a baby dragon, but the way I see it is that Discord didn't make you a hero by bringing you here, you made yourself one by sacrificing yourself on the first train ride to Ponyville! Are we going to sit here or are we going to find a way to make it right?"

We are defined by the choices we make in the moment. "Spike... What do you think it would take to get everypony in this room to help us escape?"

"That depends... is this a human idea or a pony idea?"

"Both."

"Then I think we just might be able to make this work."

~ April 20th, 1020 ME ~

'12:14 AM'

* Ponyville Market Square *

...The Queen's forces have arrived."

For Celestia's sake! I've had enough changelings for a lifetime! Shining Armor was visibly upset by the latest developments. Ever since the wedding incident, he had never been able to forgive changelings for what happened, even the ones unassociated with the attack that were currently helping Equestria. Nightshade was a few meters in front of the reinstated military leader, with a large detachment of lunar guards awaiting to defend the front lines.

Shining sent a return message spell back to the unicorn guard. "Watchful Eye, Call a full retreat to the city park. I'm going to expand the shield perimeter around you. Lunar troops are on the way. You've got 30 seconds."

"ATTENTION EVERYPONY! WE HAVE A CODE BUG! NO SIGN OF THE QUEEN. NIGHTSHADE, ADVANCE YOUR TROOPS TO THE CITY PARK. LOCAL SUPPORT STAY ON ME." the lunar guard detachment hurried out of the central square near the town hall, crossing the bridge into the park on the south end of Ponyville. Shining began pouring more magic into his shield pushing everfree monsters back as it expanded. Despite being one of the best shield casters alive, his chances of keeping it up all night were unlikely. For now, it would hopefully be enough to slow the enemy down while they picked them off. The changelings were the biggest wild card. In order to let the Cloudsdale unit through, he had to make the membrane permeable to his troops. Shining was able to do this specifically to the section nearest to the cloud bank the retreat would be from. Regardless, some of the armored bugs would definitely slip through.

Shining had roughly 5 seconds left in his count when he received a new message from Watchful Eye. "We're Through! Solidify!" Shining instantly made the barrier impassable, resulting in more stress on the shield. It now felt like it was being impacted by twice as many enemies. The force felt like a hundred pounds of weight was dropped on his back and through his horn. His face began to sweat. The changelings knew that the shield would lack the ability to defend against different types of impacts simultaneously, so they were no doubt hitting it magically, while the everfree monsters were smacking it physically. The Prince of the Crystal Empire was now straining much more than he had expected. He needed a new plan, and maybe a new perspective on the battle.

Shining was disappointed in himself, but he wasn't going to sit around until all of his reserves were drained, he needed to stay in the fight. He began to message his Lunar commander. "Nightshade, I can't afford to keep this shield up any longer. Are you in position to back up the retreat?"

"We're ready Captain!" The shield collapsed, but Shining Armor did not. Wasting no time, he began to adapt a new strategy. The locals were armed with spears and light armor supplied from Canterlot, and Shining was planning on letting them do what they came to do. "Agent Sweetie Drops of the Ponyville reserves, take half east and I'll take the other half west. We're going to sandwich them. If we lose the edge, fall back to the town hall. The element of surprise won't last forever. Wait for my signal to attack."

"Alright ponies you heard the captain. Everypony left of you come with me." Sweetie Drops, known by her friends as Bon Bon, led her half as instructed, swinging wide to the east in order to create a pincer movement. Shining Armor did the same thing on the other flank to complete the maneuver. Before he gave the signal, what he saw on the battlefield was already not good. The Cloudsdale unit was definitely missing some of its numbers, and while the enemy was hurting as well, the changelings were numerous. Lunar guards were standing side by side with weapons forward, but their formation line was looking a little shaky as their members slowly got knocked down. Magical volleys were flying through the air, some missing wide while others found their mark.

Between the cloud of black changelings, and the beasts of the forest, a perfect opening didn't exist. That's why when Shining saw a gap form behind a half-dozen chimeras he didn't hesitate. "ADVANCE NOW!" He said, while simultaneously sending a message to Bon Bon. Leading the charge forward at a full gallop, the adrenaline washed out the feelings of any fatigue. The captain was laser focused. pulling out a sword holstered at his side he slashed through the closest chimera. The unexpected blow had cut true, impacting the goat portion of the body, making it a quick end for the first foe.

Followed by 20 other ponies, Shining continued to press in on the sides of the army. Keeping up the pressure he swung at another chimera which batted his sword down with its snake tail. Reflexively he turned on his hooves and unleashed a buck straight towards the head. This chimera, in response, pounced upwards making Shining's attack miss low. Shining rolled to avoid being clawed, attempting to bring his sword back up as he did so. Neither side made contact with each other, but an incoming changeling slammed into captain Armor while he tried to get back to his hooves. A throbbing sensation greeted him, and he likely had a cracked rib. The chimera wasn't done with him yet, but that had to be put out of his mind because wrestling the changeling would come first.

Using his new opponent's momentum, he continued the roll and found himself on top, pinning the changeling under hoof. The smile on the changeling's face said it all. Flipping the drone over his back brought a stabbing pain through his injured side, but the action was taken just in time. The changeling impacted the charging chimera's claws and went limp. The force of the throw was enough to also throw the chimera off balance, giving Shining enough time to pick up his sword, which had fallen when the changeling flew into him. In a fighting stance he slashed again, this time however, he turned the attack into a parry. Coming out of the block opened up a new attack which he quickly took advantage of, finishing off another of the chimeras. Looking around surveying the battlefield, what he saw was not ideal.

Ponies everywhere were being swarmed by changelings. Most of his army was in various states of injury, unconsciousness or simply dead. Nightshade was trying to fend off five changelings at once, and he was counting himself lucky he had just fought the one so far. The only good news was that very few everfree monsters were left in the fight. His team had wiped out a good chunk, and the initial ambush from the clouds had done the biggest portion of the work.

Before Shining had a chance to find a new target or give any additional orders, a hissing sound was heard from behind him. Turning around to the sight of three members of Chrysalis' hive, he threw up a small shield, buying some time to think. Beyond them was the town, the battle having pushed its way inside from the lunar forces being forced back. Changelings were running around destroying everything in their wake. Glass storefronts were shattered. Abandoned carts, and belongings were smashed. Holes were opening up in the streets, diamond dogs clawing their way out. Hopelessness was quickly overwhelming the confidence that was once filling the captain.

How could they always stay one step ahead of us? Shining wondered. One thing remained true, even in the struggle; for the sake of his family, his wife, his daughter, Bon Bon, Nightshade, Watchful Eye, and the rest of his army, he would continue to fight with all he had.

‘12:38‘

* Canterlot Castle *

Luna could feel it when her troops began losing their hold on Ponyville. Her connection with the sleeping world allowed her to sense the ones slipping into unconsciousness. This alone was cause for concern considering how ruthless the enemy had been the night prior, but this also wasn't the biggest issue. Far greater of an issue was that the shield surrounding Ponyville had been dispelled moments prior. Night court was therefore adjourned early, which was fine considering how few petitioners actually came.

"Princess Luna! You have to send another guard detachment to backup Ponyville! I felt my husband drop his shield, and even now I feel his desperation!"

"I'm sorry Cadance. It's too late I'm afraid. We have felt our defenses failing despite our best guards being at the front. The solar guard here would never make it in time."

"Fine! If you won't send anypony else then I will go. I'm not leaving my love to die."

"And neither will I leave any more of them to that fate. However, my sister and I have agreed that Equestria and the Crystal Empire need you here rather than falling into the hands of the enemy, therefore I will go. I will protect my little ponies, and your husband with the full of my power if I must. Send for support to come as soon as possible with medical teams." Cadance looked very displeased by Luna's unwillingness to let her get directly involved since it was her family in jeopardy, but she trusted the princess' judgment. If those in authority don't respect authority how will anypony else recognize them as a good leader?

Cadance had a gut feeling she would see her knight in shining armor again, but if she hadn't, she may not have listened. Her magic based upon love wouldn't fail her now... Hopefully...

‘12:41‘

Ponyville was a mess when Luna teleported to a spot a few hundred feet above it. Broken glass and dirt mounds littered the ground, and bodies lay motionless in the field that was once a peaceful park. It was deathly quiet. While there were many dead monsters, changelings, and ponies alike, there were no signs of Shining Armor or Nightshade. No doubt many other ponies were absent as well. A stirring from one of the ponies lying in the park caught Luna's eye. She flew over to them immediately and was met with both a horrible sight, but a great praise. The pony groaned. This mare was alive, but a large gash ran across her torso. Her eyes were half open, and her beige coat looked a little whiter.

"Th-hey-y-y t-t-took a-alive. Thought-t I was d-dead."

"Shh... don't worry about them now, we will save them. Just keep your eyes open... Help is on the way." Luna lit up her horn and used a spell to stop the bleeding while offering the earth pony a little of her own strength. "Can you tell me anything more about what happened?"

"The changeling’s surprise attacked. When we started running out of standing soldiers that's when the diamond dogs showed up. Between them and the changelings they just started hauling off ponies like it was nothing. Had the whole field cleared of the living in under three minutes. I would have been taken too if I hadn't convinced them I was dead." The pony was wincing between some of her words.

"Thank you, agent Sweetie Drops."

Chase was just about done mentally running through his escape plan and contingencies. He had thought of all the possible ways in which it could go wrong, that is, until steps could be heard approaching the cell. Spike was asleep next to him, but he woke up and lifted his head when the metal door opened with a squeak. Neither Chase nor Spike were expecting what they saw next. Ponies in even worse shape than the ones currently in the cell were dropped into the room. Some of them looked beat up so badly they probably couldn't walk on their own. Among them was a pony with a battered face, and deformed side, and a leg angled the wrong direction. It was Twilight's brother. Just like every other new prisoner, he was stripped of his magic.

Chase felt as though the time constraints were tighter than before. Who knows how much time they would have left before the trauma to the soldier's bodies did them in.

The lack of magic was a form of torture given to every single pony that had encountered Tirek. With the shape that the new arrivals were in, things were looking like they would be a whole lot harder. The more ponies trying to escape, especially ones that could barely move on their own, the more likely something would go horribly wrong. Chase had no way to help the injured ponies. The only way he could save them was to perfect his plan and communicate it clearly. Without wasting a beat, Chase went right back to preparing, ignoring his body's need for sleep, and food, as well as the nagging feeling to give up after seeing how hurt the Equestrians were.

It was time to escape.

It was time to engineer a way out.

Chapter 28: Jailbreak

~ April 20th, 1020 ME ~

‘2:22am‘

When Cadance arrived in Ponyville with emergency medical response teams, Luna had only found a few ponies still alive and in need of attention. Big McIntosh, Bon Bon, and Lucky Clover were among them. Good ponies had died tonight. Ponyville locals like Thunderlane and Dr. Hooves were gone. Sunshower and Clear Skies from Cloudsdale were gone. More than half of Luna's guard was gone, while another portion was unaccounted for.

The scene that surrounded the first responders was difficult to handle. Luna had already moved her citizens that had perished in combat to a place where they could be given to their families for a proper burial and helped treat some of the more life-threatening injuries of the remaining survivors. Cadance didn't hesitate to approach Luna with her concerns, a stone-faced expression currently hiding all her emotions. "Luna, I stopped feeling my connection with Shining on our way here... Where is my husband!"

"We can't access the dreams of a single missing pony either. I've already tried contacting them. I'm still as much in the dark as you are, other than he was taken by changelings and diamond dogs through underground tunnels. That's all I know."

"Well then let's go after them! Why are we still here? We have to get them back!"

"We have a changeling following them as we speak. We-"

"You're trusting the same creatures that stole my love to save his life?!"

"Second Chance if you would explain please." A forest green earth pony mare that Cadance hadn't noticed stepped up beside Luna.

"Certainly Your Majesty! Celestia sent one of my siblings to every major town in the country. My brother Dust was in Ponyville. He managed to slip into the changeling ranks as they retreated and is keeping us all updated on his findings. Currently he is deep below the everfree forest. Tirek drained the magic of every captured pony, and your husband is among them. The next several hours will be used to find an easy escape route and gather information, all while hopefully remaining discreet enough to avoid being found out."

"I'm Sorry Cadance... I know this is especially hard on you but rushing in would not end well. The best thing you could do for Shining now is call in the Crystal guard. I know they don't often leave the empire but given the circumstances it might be wise. If Equestria falls, you know as well as I that the crystal empire would be forced into hiding again.

Location: Unknown
Time: Unknown

While a majority of the prisoners were spending their time trying to find comfortable enough positions to remain asleep for more than a few minutes, Chase was preparing to start one of the largest games of telephone ever. What could possibly go wrong in communicating his plan? Using a game designed to leave a message scrambled by the time the last person or pony heard it was great! Specifically, because part of the game would keep suspicion down from the guards that there was an escape plan in the works, and the other part would create a little intended chaos among the captured ponies. If everypony remained calm, it would actually work against what he needed to do.

Before the fun could begin, Chase needed to collect a few things and get the conversations rolling. Standing up from where he had been seated by Spike, Chase made his way over to a group of young mares that had been in captivity since before he had arrived. The three he was walking towards started to whisper amongst each other as they saw him approach. Perfect! "Excuse me ladies, how would you like to help everypony get out of here?" The three friends looked at Chase a little funny. The most confident of the group, a pony with a vermilion coat decided to be the first to respond.

"Sorry for my rudeness but... what are you?" She spoke with what reminded Chase of a New York accent. It was a little weird to hear on a pony, but he quickly recovered.

"I'm a human, and a friend to the princesses. I have a way for us all to escape. All I would need from you is one of your hairpins, and for you to start passing on some messages while I get a few other things. Can you do that?"

"We could do that. Anything to get out! We've been here for 3 days already with nothing but water. The Changeling's come to feed every morning... at least I think they come in the morning, it's hard to say. They will probably be around in a few hours.

"Well, we will just have to leave before then, won't we? The first thing I want you guys to start spreading around is simply this: We're getting out tonight. Don't leave anypony behind. Help those that can't help themselves. I know ponies have a herd mentality so it shouldn't be a problem, but I really need everypony to stick together if we're all going to make it through this."

The three girls all looked between each other again, silently communicating. This time it was a sapphire blue unicorn that responded. "We are pretty desperate to get out of here, and this is the first conversation we've heard about an actual plan, so I guess what I'm saying is... We're in. What do you need the pin for?"

"To pick the lock? Haven't you ever heard of picking a lock with a hairpin? It happens in Harry Potter for crying out loud!" All Chase got were blank confused looks. "Which of course you haven't heard of. Silly me..."

"Picking a lock without magic?" The blue one asked.

"Yeah, I had a lot of free time growing up to learn strange skills like lockpicking and Rubik's cubes. Hands are pretty good for tasks that take fine movement like that."

"Here you are." Chase received the needed item.

"You ladies wouldn't happen to know anypony here who is good with directions and navigation do you?"

"We barely know anypony, besides a few recognizable faces from Manehattan. We’ll keep our eyes open for you though."

"Alright, thanks again! I'll be back." Chase moved on to obtaining the second item on his priority list. Walking back over to Spike he crouched down and shook the young dragon awake.

"Five more minutes."

"Sorry Spike, this can't wait. I've started planning our escape. I have an important role for you. How sharp are those claws of yours?"

"Strong enough to cut through some pretty solid stuff if that's what you're asking. I've used them on numerous occasions to dig gems up for... Rarity." Spike said the name of the fashionista with a little longing in his voice.

"Great! I need you to get me a couple of the sharpest crystals you can dig out of these cave walls and a long blunt one, preferably without drawing too much attention to yourself. Do it as far from the entrance as you can."

"Is there anything else?"

"Nope, that will do it. Just ignore whatever sounds you hear from ponies, and when you've got them, leave them over there by that wall." Chase pointed to a craggy wall adjacent to the door of the cavern. Spike, now having been given a task, walked briskly towards the far wall. He was a dragon on a mission, leaving Chase by himself again with the unconscious form of Shining Armor close by.

His plan was divided into three parts: extraction, navigation and security. Currently he felt good about everything excluding navigation. If they were lost underground, they would be easily recaptured, and the efforts would be all for not. The only solution he could come up with was to rely on a pony that had been good at navigation before losing their cutie mark. It wasn't a great bet, but somepony had to have been conscious when they were dragged in and therefore recall some idea of where they went along the way. Chase went from pony to pony finding almost all of them either wouldn't talk with him, couldn't recall much, or had been knocked out.

For the most part, most of the ponies were acting rather helpless without their cutie marks. It was hard to imagine there was a time in their childhood before they discovered them due to how attached they were to it. Having talked to at least a hundred ponies with no success there was no reason to believe the red pegasus he approached next would have any useful information or skills.

"Hey, my name is Chase. I have a means for us to break out of here. You wouldn't happen to remember how you were brought down here, or a way back to the surface would you?"

"If I did, would you tell me your plan?" Chase perked up at this answer in the form of a question. It wasn't exactly what he was looking for, but he had already felt like this was better progress than with most of the others he had talked to.

"Absolutely, but I need you to give me more confirmation before I share. Changelings are going to be taking more love in less than an hour if some of the others are to be believed. Ponies are losing willpower by the second. We can't afford to waste time if you can't help."

"I was brought in after being 'beaten' in the battle in Ponyville several hours ago. I walked here willfully after giving myself up to the changeling army. My name is Dust Bowl."

"You have an incredible poker face, I'll give you that much... but you're lying. Every pony I have talked to from the latest battle was brought in unconscious. There hasn't been a single exception to that."

"Impressive observation... Fine if you want the truth, you must swear on Celestia that you won't share my identity."

"I'll do you one better... I'll make you a pinkie promise! I was told all about it by Pinkamena Pie at my welcome to Ponyville party and if you don't know the consequences of breaking one, she says that "losing a friend's trust is the fastest way to lose a friend-""

"FOREVER!" Chase jumped a little at the surprising sound of the party pony. He couldn't see Pinkie Pie anywhere, but her voice still echoed through the room he was in.

"HEY, KEEP IT DOWN IN THERE!" The changelings posted out front of the cell were not really paying attention to what was going on inside, but they still reacted to the noise. Chase was happy to hear the guard was paying attention.

"Well yes... forever. Now I promise to not share your identity. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye. Alright now do you want to get out of here or not?"

"I've been trying to figure out the best steps moving forward since I got here. I want out, but I'm the only one that's actually supposed to be here. I didn't lie about how I got in. I'm a changeling. I walked in here on my own free will when I followed the group carrying the latest prisoners in. I knew if I followed the drones after that, they would head straight to Chrysalis. She would recognize me as an impostor instantly and would've had me executed. I was supposed to be collecting information on the enemies' plans, but instead I played the coward and saved myself by sneaking to a dark corner of this room and transforming into a blank flank pony. I have the ear of the princesses right now, but I can't bring myself to tell them that I'm trapped like the rest of you."

"Hold up... You're a changeling... You work for the Princesses... You still have your magic... And you know how to get out?"

"Yeah, that's about right." Dust looked rather depressed sharing this news, evidently embarrassed to be failing his mission, but to Chase this was incredible news.

"Now it's my turn. I'm a human that can crack the lock to this cell in less than a minute, my hands are well suited for both fine work and fighting, and I'm good friends with Princess Twilight as well as other major figures in Equestria. I also have been told by Discord that I may very well be the key to ending this crisis. So, what do you say... Want to help get these ponies home?"

"What?"

"I said-"

"No, I know what you said. I just wasn't privy to that information. Never heard of a hue-man before. I know the way back to Ponyville, but we wouldn't make it halfway with this group before they catch up to us."

"That's hardly surprising, but considering you can transform, that will be even easier to deal with now."

"Here's what I want you to do..." Chase began explaining the entire escape plan to the changeling spy and picked up the crystal chunks from Spike. Then returning to the three friends from before, he prepared his next piece of gossip for the game of telephone to spread.

"In a few minutes I want you to start telling everypony this: You can help us escape by making some noise. Stomp your hooves, yell at the walls, yell at the guards, whatever you think will make a scene."

Chase and Dust waited up against the wall on either side of the door opposite the guards, but out of sight from the entryway. There were two posted by the door and one on the wall farthest from it. Spike now waited beside Chase, and they had brought Shining to lay nearby again. His heart was still beating, but he still had not awoken from the battle. From a distance, Chase saw the mares he had talked to stand up and spread out. After each one had talked with their first individual, one of the three they spoke with started throwing rocks at a wall and yelling random insults. The others seemed less receptive, choosing not to react wildly, but one of them stomped around a little. This was perfectly ok with Chase. He didn't plan on everypony getting involved and if they did it would look too organized anyway.

The three friends continued on, but some ponies followed the yelling ponies lead and let out their frustrations without being told to. Rioting was spurring more chaos, and the door guards began to react. "Quiet Down!" A few ponies backed off, but the energy didn't falter as a few more joined in. "Calm down or we will get the queen to make you all wish you had!" It was certainly a good threat, but Chase knew they would fall into his trap any minute. Guards always felt superior and overconfident when dealing with prisoners they viewed as helpless. From what he had learned, a pony without a cutie mark would always be viewed as helpless.

"Alright that's it! Time to make you shut up." The two changelings closest to the door opened it, stepped inside, and closed it behind them. Both of their horns were glowing green, and the third changeling now stood in front of the door on the outside, watching the proceedings. Chase had been hoping all three would come in, but they had still prepared for this.

Springing up from his hiding place, Chase brought the blunt crystal Spike had provided down like a club on the changeling's head. At the same time Dust's hooves collided with the back of the other changeling. They were both out cold. Next, the red unicorn swung around to face the guard that had just begun moving away from the door and fired a stun spell at him. Chase had requested that he take the form of a unicorn, arguing the tactical advantage of unicorn magic was too much to pass up. Dust had agreed with little resistance.

The ponies that had been creating an uproar quickly quieted down upon seeing the action by the door. Some looked slightly afraid from seeing the violence, but a new sense of resolve entered the prisoners now that they had seen the first stages of the plan succeed. Having little idea what would happen next the ponies with the strength to do so started moving over towards the doorway, much to Chase's annoyance. He was trying to focus his attention entirely on adjusting the pin in the lock and wasn't in a good place to lead the ponies that had assembled around him. They were all crowding too close trying to see what was going on. Fortunately, Dust stepped in to help at the right time.

"ALRIGHT EVERYPONY LISTEN UP! THE DOOR WILL BE OPEN IN THIRTY SECONDS AND IT WON'T BE MORE THAN THREE MINUTES BEFORE CHRYSALIS ARRIVES. SHE WILL HAVE FELT THE DISTURBANCE FROM HER GUARDS. IF YOU'RE ABLE, GRAB AN INJURED PONY AND FOLLOW ME. THERE WILL BE NO TIME FOR SLOWING DOWN OR QUESTIONS! THAT MEANS WHATEVER I OR HE SAYS GOES." (Dust pointed at Chase). "IF I SAY STOP YOU STOP!" Dust mentally went through his memory of the directions one last time and stood at the front of the gathered ponies. 25% of the prisoners were now on the backs of other ponies, with a lot of the lifting being done by earth ponies. Although they didn't have their magic, they still tended to have the most naturally built-up muscles out of the tribes.

Just then the lock clicked, and the door was pushed open. "GOT IT! GO DUST! I'LL TAKE UP THE BACK! YOU KNOW THE PLAN!" Chase stepped to the side as ponies began galloping through. He grabbed the limp Shining Armor grunting a little at the weight, but not changing his mind about personally taking the responsibility of protecting Twilights brother. It took over a minute for everypony to get through the door which was only wide enough for two ponies to go through at a time, but soon Chase was running out himself with Spike still staying beside him and the captain slung over his shoulder.

The tunnel shook with all the sets of hooves making their way through it. The escapees were all dead quiet now besides the sounds of their running and breathing. Up ahead Chase heard Dust give the command for everypony to stop. When he reached the first fork in the tunnel where they had congregated, there was a diamond dog blocking the way. Except he wasn't actually blocking the way, he was directing everypony into the left tunnel like a traffic marshal. Chase moved to the left tunnel and watched as Dust used the claws he had acquired to loosen the rocks above this intersection. Just like they had planned Chase gave the command for everypony to keep moving and Dust returned to being a unicorn. Dust blasted a shot of magic at the cracks in the ceiling and ran away as soon as the mana left his horn. Rocks began to fall, one after another in the spot where the damage had been done. Without looking back, Dust slowly worked his way back up to the front of the group, the entire intersection caving in behind him.

One of the details he had purposefully kept secret from even Chase was that they had several miles left of underground travel. Chances were good that the one cave-in wouldn't hold pursuers off for long. Chase had made sure Dust communicated with the princesses that they were coming, but unless they could somehow meet in the middle, some ponies wouldn't make it. Dust made it back up to the front and they continued their pace for a good while, everypony just following the one in front of them to avoid falling behind.

Being in the back and having been known for being a cross country runner, Chase could feel when the pace of the ponies in front of him began to slow down. While he was trying to keep up the pace, the weight of Shining Armor was starting to take its toll on both his shoulder and his legs. One blessing that doubled as a curse was that the clothes he was wearing before teleporting to Equestria returned when Tirek stole his magic, except he hadn't been wearing shoes, so his feet were getting battered on the rough stones. He also felt like he could hear more steps coming from behind him then in front. Although he hadn't seen anyone behind him, he kept feeling at any moment now they would be chased down and overrun. The changelings were the wolves, and they were the prey.

Chase was pretty sure they were a few miles into running now. Along the way Spike had started to fall behind on his tiny legs, so he was currently riding the pony just in front of Chase. Chase glanced behind him on a straight stretch and saw light glowing around the previous bend. Picking up his pace was doable, but to risk leaving another behind in the process didn't feel right. Forcing a confrontation also seemed like a bad idea. The weapons he had Spike make him could be swung like daggers, but not against a swarm of changelings and whatever else was closing in. Shining began to stir a little on Chase's shoulder eliciting a groan. Not the best timing but at least it meant he wasn't in a comatose state.

Every fifty meters or so Chase glanced back. The light was getting brighter. A choice would have to be made... maybe he could stay behind and buy time for the others, but he wouldn't escape with his life, and he couldn't risk the life of Shining Armor either. Looking back again to get a sense for how much time they had left, he was met with a surprise. The light he had seen previously completely winked out. Chase stumbled a little bit at the drop in lighting, but he continued ahead. Dust was now the only source of light, and the sounds that were trailing him were no longer present. The cause was a mystery. Chase could only wonder if he would ever figure out what happened.

Twenty minutes passed with Chase glancing back every so often out of fear. He kept waiting to see the cave light up behind him, but it didn't. Barely a word had been spoken by anypony since they left the cell, but Dust once again broke the silence. "We just left the everfree. Congratulations everypony! Welcome to Ponyville!" Dust had a lot more energy than the rest of the lot, but the gathered ponies still found enough for a little cheer in celebration. They finally stopped running when they saw a dead end up ahead. Dust transformed into a diamond dog for a second time and began digging through the wall finding it to be very thinly filled in. His claw breached the surface and exposed the outside world. The first signs of morning light shone into the cave.

Dust carved out enough earth for the ponies to get through and worked his way out of the cave taking a big breath of the fresh air filled with morning dew. The greeting committee that awaited him wasn't very welcoming, however. He was staring at two angry alicorns that thought he was a diamond dog. He quickly did away with his disguise returning to his default state, before the next pony behind him even made it above ground. "Dust Bowl at your service your majesty. Every prisoner has escaped without a single loss." At the same time as Dust was trying to keep his cool and identify himself, ponies started streaming out of the tunnel. Cadance had her eyes fixed on the changeling, but Luna noticed the exhausted ponies stepping out from the hole the changeling had just made.

"Cadance stand down." Luna couldn't believe it. Dust had said that he was helping the captives escape, but she had doubted his ability to get them out without being caught. "Should we be expecting a fight?"

"No Princess. We were followed, but they dropped off mysteriously. There's been no sign of them for a while."

"Thank you, Dust. I await a full report on your espionage and prison break. You will be recognized and rewarded for your services. I hope ponies begin to see that it is possible for us to live together, when changelings aren't following a corrupt dictator."

Cadance looked at every pony that surfaced, continuing to await the sign of her husband. Ponies kept streaming through, but not a single one to this point was a white stallion with a blue mane. First responders had wasted no time in hurrying over to check on every pony that had been rescued. It was no surprise as to why. Every single one of them had lost their cutie mark, and had their colors begin to fade. A good number were also being carried, with clear signs of battle injuries. Cadance was feeling more anxious then ever waiting for her love. She felt incomplete without him. She did notice Spike coming through on the back of an earth pony, but where was Shining Armor?!

Suddenly she saw a creature with the strangest proportions make its way out of the hole. On its shoulder was the stallion she had been waiting for. She flew right at the tall figure ready to save her husband from its clutches. It turned its head and locked eye with her, opening its mouth to speak. "He's all yours." She knew that voice. She had heard it recently too...

"Blazing?" She said, confused. She slowed up and glided down right in front of him, the biped setting her husband down gently before her. "He needs medical attention immediately. The changelings brought him in with what appears to be a broken rib and leg. He may not be out of the woods yet if there's any internal bleeding going on. He hasn't spoken but I think he's awake. m' sorry."

"Sorry? You carried my husband back to me! Thank you Blazing! I owe you more than I can ever repay!" She expected him to respond, but he instead collapsed to a sitting position. Chase hadn't realized how exhausted he was until he had set Shining Armor down. He had known his body ached, but he wasn't prepared to practically fall over. Cadance already looked incredibly concerned about her husband's injuries, but now she looked even more so. "Are you alright?"

"m' fine, just haven't slept in 24 hours. Don't worry bout me, just take care of Shiny." Chase felt himself laying back right in the middle of the street with his eyes closing against his will. Any other day and place this would have been weird, but 'when in Ponyville' as they say. Chase's eyes completely closed, and he was out like a light.

Chapter 29: Perspectives

~ April 20th, 1020 ME ~

‘8:05am‘

The sun crested the horizon, marking the start of a new day. Twilight Sparkle yawned as she left her room, eyes drooping but still awake. The night had been restless, worry for her brothers and friend plaguing the princess's mind. She had tried to follow Celestia's advice, but sleep had only found her for brief moments of time. With the morning now upon her, she was unwilling to wait any longer. She would seek out the reports on the battle straight from the records official.

Upon arriving at the office located between the guard and employee wing of the castle, Twilight went straight to the front desk where a secretary sat levitating papers into various stacks. Outside the window, the sound of a drill sergeant instructing new recruits could be heard. "How can I help you?" The secretary asked without looking up.

"I need to know what happened last night!" While Twilight wasn't exactly yelling, her eyes were bloodshot and slightly bigger than normal, and her stress was clearly mixed into her speech.

"I'm sorry Princess. While you have the clearance to request that information, Princess Luna has personally requested that no pony read that particular report until the royal sisters have had a chance to address it publicly. The latest news I have received is that the situation has been fully resolved and the response team is on its way back."

"I just need to know if everyponies okay..." Twilight was on the verge of tears as she visibly slumped. If only I hadn't let this happen. I could have figured out what was going to happen and prevented it! Now ponies could be dead, and I couldn't do anything about it...

The staff member glanced around uncomfortably before finding her resolve. “You know there's talk that a certain white stallion was saved by a mysterious creature."

Twilight looked back up towards the pony at the desk finding a small sense of relief washing over her. Shiny might be alright! While many fears remained, Twilight thought it best not to overstay her welcome. It was time to go look for answers at the source. The response team was supposed to be back soon after all. Before she made for the exit, she thanked the secretary who had gone back to organizing papers as if nothing had been said.

The day was still young as Twilight made her way to the nearest balcony facing Ponyville. She wanted to know the moment they were approaching. Seconds felt like hours staring off into the distance. The streets below were becoming more and more active as ponies headed off to work and went about their business. Nothing could distract Twilight from where her gaze was fixed. After what felt like an eternity her eyes saw the familiar banner signifying the lunar guard followed by The Princess of the Night, and a large number of chariots loaded to maximum capacity. She began flying out to meet them before they got anywhere close enough to land. While there was a large number of chariots, it didn't take long before she spotted the eye-catching pink of her sister in law's coat. There he was! Shining lay unconscious, being tended to by a hovering Cadance. Spike was also there. Thank Celestia they were all right! A torrent of relief washed over Twilight. He looked awful, and his coat was looking a little gray, but her brother and number one assistant were alive! Tears of joy filtered out of her eyes as she flew in and gave a big hug to an exhausted Spike.

That's when she saw it. She had been still looking around for one more pony when she spotted the large and lanky form of... actually she had no idea what it was. Never in all her years of study had she come across a creature such as this one. It could have been a distant relative of the diamond dog, but it had hardly any hair and strange attire that Rarity would have definitely found interesting. It was sitting up against the side of the chariot fast asleep with bags under its eyes. She would normally have been concerned with an unknown creature being this close to so many important friends and family, but she recalled the report she heard about a suspicious creature saving her brother and thought better of it.

"I'm so glad you're all ok!" Twilight was fighting back tears of joy as she hugged Spike. "With both Sombra and now Tirek on the loose... We have to do something to get everypony's magic back! Cadance where's Blazing? Was he not with Spike?"

Cadance's response was pointing a hoof in the direction of the furless creature. Twilight couldn't help being a little confused but thinking back to just ten days ago she was reminded of what Blazing had called his species: Human. He had evidently lost his magic to Tirek and in the process reverted back to his original self from before he got teleported to Equestria. "We have Blazing to thank for the rescue of everypony. He is one special stallion." Cadance said, sounding both tired and relieved.

Twilight opened and closed her mouth like a fish out of water trying to put to words her feelings about seeing a human for the first time. She struggled to find the words to say. Blazing opened his eyes for a moment coming in and out of the waking world but not staying awake for long. The man that she had been developing a friendship with looked different, yet Twilight knew that it was Blazing from his beautiful aqua blue eyes. The waterworks she had been holding back could be held no more. The dam burst and Twilight let loose a river of tears very grateful that those closest to her had made it through the storm.

~ April 20th, 1020 ME ~

‘11:22am‘

Blazing woke up fatigued, feeling like he had run a marathon, but mentally in a better state than when he had collapsed earlier. He couldn't even recall falling asleep. The last thing he remembered was feeling the freedom that came with stepping out into the morning light after they had escaped. The fact that he had been the recipient of so much misfortune in Equestria and in his life prior was overwhelming. The stress and adrenaline of running for his freedom had worn off which meant he had time to think. All things considered he was happy to be alive, the probability hadn't been in his favor. Unfortunately, that only reminded him of his brother who hadn't made it this far. He would press on. Push ahead for his brother and for his new friends.

Speaking of new friends, Blazing wasn't alone. He had woken up in the same medical wing from when he arrived in Equestria, only this time he was surrounded by many other injured ponies and he was also back to only having to worry about two feet despite just barely figuring out how to manage four. Twilight had fallen asleep beside the bed between him and Spike. Thank goodness they hadn't taken his clothes off because that would have been awkward.

Sitting up he spotted a note at the end of the bed. It was addressed to him and sealed with the royal crest. It read as follows:

Sir Blazing Waters,

Following your heroics in the rescue of numerous citizens of Equestria, it has been decided that you are to be awarded the Golden Heart award to recognize your bravery and selfless service to the crown. I find it unlikely that many ponies or humans for that matter would have been able to do what you orchestrated. My sister and I have also decided after seeing your human self for the first time that you shall be given possession of an important magical item given to us by Discord. Attached to this letter is a ring that wouldn't fit on anypony but instead seems sized for a human. While the nature of it is still unclear, we trust that when the time is right you will know its use. Thank you for supporting me, my student, and this country in our greatest time of need.

~ Princess Celestia

The ring in question, which had fallen onto the comforter, was a golden ring with a 6-sided diamond star as the centerpiece. The star pattern on the top looked somehow familiar. Its diameter was oddly close to the size of his finger but that wasn't the weirdest part. On the inside edge of the band was a small engraving that would normally be overlooked without a close inspection. On the face opposite from the 6-sided star was a tiny circle with a dot engraved in the center of it. ☉

Blazings heart nearly skipped a beat at the familiar symbol. He wasn't sure if Celestia had seen it, but he knew now that he could never unsee it. This ring was not something he wanted to mess with, and he certainly wasn't going to put it on! What was Discord trying to do kill him?! Rather than continue to sit and think about what the ring was capable of he shoved it in his pocket rather forcefully, not going so far as to throw it away, but secretly hoping it would fall out of his pocket and he would never see it again.

Trying to take his mind off of the curse in his pocket, Blazing turned his attention to Twilight. If only problems could always be solved by putting heads together. Twilight certainly had plenty of smarts and he loved her motivation to learn. He wouldn't consider himself a slouch when it came to academics either, but that didn't translate to how to win a war. War was a beast that until recently had only existed in history books for both of them. How could they outsmart an enemy that always seemed to know what they were doing, had shapeshifters, dark magic, an army of monsters, and the ability to steal magic (one of the few advantages of the ponies)?

"You're awake! Are you hurt in any way?" Twilight had evidently woken up while he was spacing out and it was good to hear her voice.

"I'm fine. Just a few bruises and a little soreness. How's your brother?"

"They say he should be alright... It's a good thing he got treatment when he did... His body is healing slower without magic and his breathing was hindered by a broken rib. I owe you even more now than before. Thank you for saving my brother."

"You would have done it too if the roles were reversed. Listen, you don't owe me anything, but I need some advice and I don't know who else to ask...

"I will try my best, but Princess Celestia would probably be the better pony to ask."

"No, not for this question... alright here goes... What do you do when the right decision also happens to be the hardest one to make?

A pause. "From my experience, if the thing that makes it hard to choose is my own wishes then I often need to move past that. When I first went to Ponyville I had no intention of making friends, only making sure the summer sun celebration was organized perfectly. I even went so far as to ask why everyone in the town was crazy! The truth is that in some ways I had been the crazy one. I had spent all of my time before that holed up in my own books hardly realizing that my study of magic was limited by my isolation. I don't know if that answers your question, but I do know that when I have to make a hard decision, I have to consider how it affects my friends and also that I should never try to deal with those things alone. If you ever need somepony to help you bear the weight of something I can lend my ear. "

"That is a helpful perspective Twilight and thanks. There's a verse I know that says "greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends." I just hope that it never comes to that..."

" NO! I mean no, I wouldn't let that happen. I'm from this world and I would give up myself if it meant you wouldn't have to because I'm a Princess of Equestria. Besides you have a home to return to back on Earth... Discord really shouldn't have told you those statistics. Equestria is lucky to have a visitor like you and I really do wish I could help more with bearing the weight." What Twilight didn't realize was that Blazings fear extended well beyond the statistics that suggested he gave Equestria a better shot at peace. Having her worrying about him and saying that she should be the one to make sacrifices was a nice consideration from the Princess and he was glad he confided some of his thoughts, if only a fraction of them.

The rest of the day to follow was rather uneventful. That came as a pleasant surprise considering everything prior. Blazing got to eat meat again in the palace kitchens, something he was particularly excited about, and he spent some more time hanging out with Spike who had become a good dragon to relate to. Everypony was on edge, expecting an attack at any moment, but it never came. The Princesses made a public address to inform the nation of the small victory, while trying to lift the spirits of those who had lost loved ones. Later in the day, the Elements of Harmony along with Blazing attended another strategy meeting, which consisted of updates on the new recruits, damage control of the defensive formation, and scheduled watches to sound the alarm through the following several days and nights. Celestia and Luna continued to lead with confidence, but evidence of their tiredness was becoming apparent despite their regal persona's.

Having been attacked the previous two nights, they also discussed the possibility of another night fight only this time making a stand in Canterlot. While preparations were made for this possibility, those proved to be extra when the night of the 20th remained eerily silent. Midnight came and went with no battle, nor monster attack.

The next day was much the same. Intel on the enemy and their plans was hard to come by. Some of the missing ponies were slowly being confirmed as changeling, but the time of the next large-scale attack was anyponies guess. Screening in the cities had continued to confirm that no more changeling infiltrators were spying on the Princess' every move. That night, the moon was out in full. 0:00 hours came and went again, the 21st becoming the 22nd with no sign of Chrysalis, Tirek, Sombra, or the Nightmare forces. The night almost seemed like it would be written off as another quiet one when it happened. One of the night guards patrolling the southwest wall was trying his best not to fall asleep. It was 3:17am which meant his shift was on the downslope as he continued to walk along the wall. The light of the moon was helping keep him awake but there wasn't much to see in the fields beyond the Canterlot mountainside, especially at this time of night. Since the light from the moon was on this particular guard's mind, he was the first to notice when a wall of black came in front of the moon obscuring its light. Wondering if he was hallucinating, the guard wiped his eyes with the back of his leg. He was a little confused to say the least. A slight indicator of wing movement is what brought him to his senses. In the loudest voice he could muster he began to shout.

"Sound the Ala-"

Smack!

The guard hit the ground hard after being blasted by a magic pulse shot out of the sky, briefly lighting up the faces of hundreds of bugs descending on the city.

Hmmm! Hmmm!

The sound of horns was being blown at every junction in the city walls.

The battle had begun.

Chapter 30: Time Will Tell

Part III ~ The Impossible Choice

~ April 22nd, 1020 ME ~

‘3:17am‘

As soon as the horns sounded the entire castle was moving better than a well-oiled machine. It was loud enough to wake ponies miles away. Guards in the city below cleared the streets, ponies stationed on the wall pulled out ranged weaponry, and loaded chariots were prepared to take off. The solar and lunar guard were divided into their individual platoons led by a complex chain all reporting back to commander Storm who reported to the princesses directly. Despite how early in the morning it was, not one pony on duty was sitting down.

The one guy who couldn't figure out where to fit into everything since returning back from being held captive was Blazing. Unlike the ones who couldn't fight due to injury, Blazing hadn't been setback in that way. Reverting back to human meant that he was without magic, and while that had never made him helpless before, he wasn't sure he could do much more than watch from the castle windows now, Spike standing behind him. The one weapon that he had was some of Twilight's enchantment research that had been brought to Canterlot from Ponyville. Spike had actually recommended trying to arm ponies with some of it after he had used the mana blaster and invisibility to fight the Timberwolves.

The Elements of Harmony were on standby to find an opening to blast Tirek with the elements if and when he showed himself. Keeping him from getting more powerful was essential, a lesson they had learned well last time they dealt with him. Not to be outdone, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia were also strapping on their royal armor as they would be leading their ponies from the front lines.

The first wave of the enemy was approaching from the southwest, the changeling swarm raining down on the city.

The closer they got to the ground the more projectiles began to be exchanged, magic and arrows pelting either side.

"Don't give them an easy target!" The Earth ponies on the walls had shields angled upward and Pegasi and Unicorns served as archers trying to remain behind cover. Meanwhile, Nightshade was leading the 1st-3rd platoon of the lunar guard into position as a second line to meet the changelings that were beginning to land. The west-most market square in Canterlot was staged for an epic battle and Nightshade, having survived the first battle of Ponyville, was going to lead her troops to victory. Hopefully...

In the center of the swarm, a large group of changelings split off from the rest of the hive. Chrysalis was leading them. Their target? It was the field of chariots preparing to take off from the castle, very near to where the royal sisters were.

The dark cloudless night suddenly seemed to get darker and colder. Shadows and black tendrils wrapped themselves around the perimeter of the city walls. Black crystals jutted out from the ground wherever the darkness touched.

The darkness permeated in a way that sapped hope and replaced it with immeasurable doubts and fears. Not to be outdone by Chrysalis, Sombra made his grand entrance by blasting a hole in the east wall completely collapsing a small section of it.

With all of this taking place rather simultaneously the Elements of Harmony could see from the castle's high vantage point that the city would be quickly overwhelmed by the sheer power of their enemies without putting their plans into motion.

Rainbow Dash desperately wanted to take off and smash Sombra into the next year, but they were to wait and she wouldn’t let her friends down. Twilight gave directions to Dust Bowl (Celestia's changeling spy) to relay to Storm. “Sombra has breached the eastern gate. Send the special forces of the solar guard and begin operation Suppressant.”

“At once your Majesty!” Dust disappeared in a green flash. It had been surprising for Twilight to learn that Celestia had recruited changelings from other hives, but the fact that some of them had developed the skill of teleportation was even more surprising. Receiving more love had been a catalyst for more magic development in some of the changeling drones. Now it was just Tirek and The Nightmare missing for the entire chess board to be set. The enemies of Equestria had taken the first moves making them the white pieces. The black pieces, while developing slower, were being careful not to overdevelop and fall to the invaders. They didn't have to wait long.

"There!" Applejack shouted, pointing a hoof towards where the train tracks entered the city.

Tirek was approaching Canterlot, about half the size as the last time Twilight battled him. Above his head a fireball glowed red hot, and in his magical grasp stones floated around ready to be hurled at anything. "Gather close." Twilight teleported her friends to the Canterlot train station on the edge of town, which was about a half mile from where Tirek was currently galloping. The six mares formed a line staring straight at the charging centaur. While the air was mostly serious, Pinkie Pie put on a goofy grin when she spotted what had appeared under Tirek's hooves. Just as he was beginning to unleash his first bombardment of projectiles, Tirek stepped on a section of railroad that wasn't made out of wood. The track had a disguised segment that in reality was a pitfall. 20 feet down, At the bottom of the trap was a pile of poison joke. Twilight invoked a spell she had only used one other time. Thanks to the research of Starswirl the Bearded, the friends were sent back in time approximately two hours, to when they had set up the trap.

"Mah goodness is that a little disorienting." Applejack said.

"Alright girls let's get moving," said Twilight.

"Digging a hole is not exactly my forte darling, but I suppose if that is what we did in the past..." Rarity voice faded off at the end.

"Well, we knew we were going to have to catch Tirek somehow and Fluttershy already packed some poison joke. Race you to the spot Applejack!" Rainbow dash yelled over her shoulder as she took off towards where the pitfall had been.

"Oh yer on!"

One dug hole later and a lot of detail work by Rarity to make it look just right, and the trap was set. Now all they had to do was return to their timeline and blast Tirek, who was going to fall for their pitfall, literally.

After returning to the present, they quickly circled around the hole preparing to use the elements. "Tirek, who had been turned pink and had the voice of a 6th grade girl, wasn't impressed. "You think you can beat me that easily? With a little bit of a joke?!"

"Quickly girls" Twilight insisted. They began to float in the air, the elements appearing around their necks and a glow coming off their fur.

"I have lived for over a thousand years! You're not going to win like that! The power of harmony can't even hit a moving target!" Despite his squeaky voice, Tirek still managed to laugh in a condescending way as he hurled himself out of the hole in one swift jump and began to run the remaining distance to hide behind the Canterlot wall all before the elements had completed powering up. Evidently the poison joke hadn't taken away any of the strength or speed he had obtained from stealing ponies' magic. After allowing the elements to return to normal, Tirek stepped around the corner launching an orange and red blast of magic back at the girls, having charged up another fireball. Twilight deflected it with a shield as her friends advanced back towards where Tirek had gone.

Rainbow Dash took to the air, leaving a rainbow contrail behind her as she started to arc around Tirek, attempting to get behind him. Plan B was always to use numbers to their advantage, and getting into Tirek's blind spots would be a good start. The other girls also spread out in a way that served to annoy the self-proclaimed Lord, but didn't seem to make him struggle. Tirek reared up and stomped his hooves on the ground hard enough to make a miniature earthquake and throw the advancing mares off balance. Rainbow Dash wasn't slowed as she flew in to get a hit on the back side of his head, but he was one step ahead. As soon as Rainbow got close, a wave of magic surged in an ark around Tirek. The blast expanded outward with a force that slammed all five mares to the ground.

Wait five mares? Twilight appeared beside Tirek, having deflected his attack and teleported shortly after. She followed up with a charged attack from her horn that hit its mark on Tirek's side. He somehow managed to stay on his hooves, but he still slid several meters and had a burn where the attack had hit. Despite the blow he had a ridiculous grin on his pearly white teeth as if he was thoroughly enjoying every second of the exchange. It looked pretty silly coming from the pink centaur that sounded like a filly, but there was no time for any of them to let their guard down. The battle had only just begun.

Luna was not having a good time. While this was to be expected when one goes to battle, she had barely begun leading troops from the castle towards Chrysalis when she heard a wispy female voice in her head that she knew all too well. A shiver went down her spine and her fur stood on end. "Hello my dear Princess of the moon. Are you ready to reconsider my offer about bringing eternal night again?" The Nightmare could be hiding anywhere in the darkness, but Luna knew she was close. While the spirit was less powerful without a host, the Nightmare could not be underestimated.

"Sister, the Nightmare is here. I'm afraid this is where we must split ways. We have a battle with the Nightmare left unfinished." Celestia didn't look too pleased about this development, especially since Luna was planning to try and deal with the Nightmare on her own again, but she relented.

"May your victory be swift Lu Lu, I can't lose you again!"

"We will be right back before you even notice our absence. After all, we are better together and I'm continually happy to be reminded of this truth. The Moon needs her Sun." Luna switched between old and new speech and with the conclusion of her heartfelt statement she veered off to the right. She could feel the Nightmares' presence having been accustomed to its magic over the last thousand years. Landing in a park a little west of the magical school for gifted unicorns, Luna called out into the open air. "Stop hiding as if I can't feel your presence. There will be no eternal night and justice will be served for your violent deeds! My sister makes a far better companion than the lies you spoke into my ear."

"Vengeful as ever I see, Luna. Are you sure you don't want to get back at your sister for all the attention her day gets and the neglect of your night?"

"Our mind is made up!"

"Very well then. I will continue with my plan. It's too bad really, you really did have some potential, but I'll settle for manipulating Tirek to do my bidding, and making you my permanent host!"

Luna didn't have much time to process what the Nightmare had said as a black and blue mist surged toward her, and she barely had enough time to put up a shield. Only a problem became quickly apparent. The mist passed directly through the shield. Luna's body began to glow as if she was taking a limiter off her magic. Her eyes shone like stars and her mane became a colorful purple and blue ethereal color. The light from her body exposed the form of a mare that appeared to be made out of clouds in the midst of the mist. She wasn't exactly "physical", but she wasn't entirely metaphysical either. Some things would interact with the Nightmare physically and others magically.

Luna raised her wings and quickly brought them together, unleashing a torrent of winds buying herself time by creating distance between herself and the misty form of the Nightmare. While she was pretty out of practice with high grade spells, she knew this battle would call for a few. Luna began to cast a magical plane manipulation spell that made mana move slower in a select region, slowing her opponent down even more since the Nightmare moved through magical fields. Not to be outdone, the mist around the Nightmare seemed to begin to spark with energy. An arc of lightning began to form around the circumference of the mist, and it shot towards Luna, making her lose concentration on her spell as she sidestepped to dodge. The Nightmare quickly followed up by summoning a thick fog from the dew on the grass in the park. Luna knew all too well that this was just like the fog that had been created over the rope bridge when she had gone off to the castle of the two sisters.

Quickly, Luna created another gust to blow away the fog, but she had lost sight of her foe. Taking a moment to sense the magic field around herself again she felt the Nightmare to her left... but wait... she felt like something was on the right too. Somehow Timberwolves were in the middle of Canterlot and Luna was no longer fighting one on one. The Queen of the monsters had summoned her loyal dogs. Luna was keeping her cool, as composure would make her victory more assured, but it was hard when the Nightmare threw the occasional vocal jab at her.

"As they say... All is fair in love and war!" The Nightmare laughed clearly enjoying tormenting Luna, all the while summoning more Timberwolves from behind trees in the park.

Luna was now more than ready to show the Nightmare what was fair. It was time to release the pent-up frustrations of the last thousand years. It was time for Luna to teach the Nightmare that fairness would put an end to her lies and tricks for good.

Chapter 31: Swarm

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 32: It Only Takes a Spark...

~ April 22nd, 1020 ME ~

‘3:37am‘

Luna had been in a standstill with the Nightmare for too long. Her attention continued to be split by Timberwolves that she flung aside with her magic and her main foe that kept throwing lies at her.

“You’ll never be as strong as Celestia.” The Nightmare cooed.

“You're not even any different from when you and I were together.”

“Your friends can’t keep fighting forever, they’ve already given up on you coming to help.”

“You know-“

“No more,” Luna bellowed in the royal Canterlot voice. “Despite what you may think, I have changed! I do have friends that have shown me what it means to be honest and loyal!” Luna threw another snapping timber solve that was charging at her into a nearby tree. “I know that I don’t have to always be as strong as Celestia because we can lean on each other and support each other. And you know what? I know that your power comes from the weakness of others, but you won’t demoralize me. I shall fight with everything I can until my last breath.”

“What a speech.” The Nightmare sarcastically spoke with its cold voice. While the space filled with the Nightmare's mist was visibly smaller, the Nightmare still was quite formidable. “The moon now tries in vain to assure itself of its value. Since you won’t simply give up, I have no choice.” As soon as the sentence was concluded, Luna felt as though some of her mental energy was slowly being drained. The Nightmare was using an ability to affect her psyche indirectly. If Luna had felt pressure to end things quickly before, now that had gone up three-fold.

If not for the Timberwolves it’s possible she could have attempted to take the fight to the dreamscape, especially considering that the Nightmare was a magical construct without much form, but that would have to wait. Luna needed a plan before she would inevitably lose the ability to focus and become lunch for the wooden wolves. Luna took to the air to make space between her and the Timberwolves. A blue glow emanated from Luna's horn as she created a shield around the space the Nightmare stood. The shield was colored to match her magic but the properties of the space inside the shield were nothing like the average protection spell. Luna had created a pressure vessel within the confines of her spell and was pressing in the shield's boundaries.

The Nightmare's misty figure didn't take well to the spell. This time rather than the mist passing through the shield, the space the Nightmare existed in continued to be compressed around her. Soon the space was hardly big enough to fit the outline of the mare in the mist. The Timberwolves tried in vain to jump up and grab hold of Luna's hooves to break her concentration. The Nightmare pushed back against the confines of the chamber, but it was too late. The demon Nightmare in the center of the super compressed air disappeared. Luna released the spell and the particles rapidly dispersed leaving no trace that a magic spirit had existed in the park at all. Luna let out a huge sigh of relief that she didn't know she had been holding in. After clearing out the rest of the Timberwolves and adequately spreading their remains to keep them from regenerating, Luna was ready to move on. Time to rejoin Tia, Luna thought.

She had just started to fly away from the park when the tension she had released immediately returned.

"Checkmate." The Nightmare, whose presence had been masked moments ago now sounded like she was speaking from all directions. Luna had let her guard down, failing to recognize that the Nightmare had not only escaped the barrier, but also spread her magic thin enough to avoid detection. She felt herself becoming instantly tired and couldn't even force her eyes open long enough to land. Luna crashed out of the air, tearing up a stretch of dirt as she passed out.

Celestia was doing her best to keep track of how her ponies were doing while also fighting Chrysalis, but the disguises made it impossible to tell. A full retreat could have been necessary, and she wouldn't have known it. The Queen of the Changelings was giving her a hard time yet again, and unfortunately, she was fighting alone just like at Cadance's wedding. The one advantage that she had this time was knowing what she was up against rather than finding that out after having been deceived. The white alicorn sent a magic blast at the fake white alicorn who responded with a blast of her own. The waves collided in midair and pushed against each other continuously. Neither one could gain ground on the other. After many seconds of the mana equally colliding, it exploded between the two creating a bright flash. Celestia was temporarily blinded by the light but caught a glimpse of white in her peripherals. She moved back at the last second watching the fake Celestia fly in front of her, Chrysalis missing the blow by a fraction of a second.

If two Celestias weren't enough, Celestia created a projection of illusionary Celestias surrounding the impostor. As one they all began to fire up their horns preparing to blast Chrysalis with alicorn level magic. Chrysalis returned to her true form, her body covered in chitin armor and holes. She also flared up her magic and pulled it all into her horn. The Celestias surrounding her fired as one, the blast of white magic getting closer, and closer, and closer to Chrysalis. There was no escape. The changeling Queen released her own magic blast just before she was hit, perfectly countering the real Celestia's magic, having located her by focusing on the swirling emotions of the ponies. The illusions didn't carry Celestia's emotions with them.

The magic beam started with Celestia's white magic nearly contacting Chrysalis, and very little of the green from Chrysalis' horn visible. This time though, the magic was not evenly matched. Just like when Celestia had been bested at the wedding, Chrysalis' magic slowly overwhelmed Celestia's and struck her, knocking her to the ground. The princess of Equestria was slow to rise, her face filled with both worry and determination. After returning to her hooves, she took stock of her surroundings. Chrysalis was diving towards her, wings tucked, and hooves outstretched. She couldn't let this be the end. She had to be the last one standing. There was no choice. Equestria didn't have a future without it.

Nightshade and the 3 Lunar guard platoons were outnumbered. So far, while casualties were low, the changelings' advance had continued to push them closer and closer to the castle wall. She was currently locked in combat with two changelings wielding spears and she could hardly keep up. She constantly felt herself backing up to dodge blows. She couldn't do this forever. If they got backed into a corner it would be game over. They needed to regroup and thin down their attack to start pushing back. With numbers not on their side they were to spread to make headway in any one area.

"Retreat to the castle gate!" Nightshade hollered.

A new formation was established at the castle gate. Worst case they could retreat into the building. As they fought on, trying to turn around a losing battle, there was a shift. Something was disrupting the middle of the advancing changelings. They were falling over paralyzed by stun spells. A light flashed several times behind Nightshade but a quick glance back and nothing was visible behind her. Just what was going on?

A tall figure suddenly became visible covered in clothes. It had removed a band from its arm, holding a stun gun in one hand and it wore the princesses seal around its neck. A young dragon walked out of the castle shortly after. "I need you to help us clear a path to the train station!" Blazing was shaking from the adrenaline, but he managed to make his request. Before Nightshade had a chance to respond, another oddly shaped being materialized out of thin air. The draconequus made his grand entrance with fireworks launching into the air.

"Why yes I can clear a path." Discord replied. "After all, it has been long enough since I last helped you by stopping the changelings during your prison break. They really didn't like running into an invisible wall and I thought everypony did!" Nightshade was very confused about what was going on, but she knew the urgency of the situation. Every moment her attention wasn't on the battle more ponies could fall, including herself.

"Save the chat! We will help if we can manage to make any ground." Nightshade couldn't decide if she was happy to see the Lord of Chaos or not until she both heard and saw his next move.

"Oh, I can make some ground." Discord snapped his finger and the ground under the changelings' hooves started taking on the properties of quicksand. Those that didn't start sinking right away lost their footing, giving the Equestrian forces an opportunity to take the upper hand with their spears.

"Sorry, I can't stay and chat. I must be off before my sister gets too upset with me. She thinks I'm favoring you too much, but I secretly think she likes you more. Siblings, am I right?" Discord vanished just as quickly as he'd come. After he left, the ground solidified again leaving a majority of the changelings half stuck in the pavement on the streets. Blazing was given no directions yet again and Discord had only partially helped create a way to get to the train station. Why can't things ever be as easy as, I can help, just let me teleport you there? Blazing thought. Despite his internal complaints the 1st-3rd platoon was now moving farther and farther away from the gates and he was able to follow behind them. This small success felt huge. It meant they had a chance. The army under Nightshade felt a little strength return to them. The source of this strength was hope.

"To the train station!" Nightshade cheered.

Chapter 33: ...To Start a Whole Blaze

Author's Note

I’m excited to bring you this chapter! Things have been progressing a lot recently and I’m extra motivated and excited to write. The finish line is getting closer but the journey of writing this story has been amazing. Thanks for reading and hope you can continue to the end with me.

Chapter 33: ...To Start a Whole Blaze

~ April 22nd, 1020 ME ~

‘3:56am‘

“At what point did we go wrong here?” Dash was breathing heavily as were the other Element Bearers. Trying to get close to Tirek was proving a challenge. They had been at it for over half an hour and it was having more of an effect on their stamina than Tirek’s.

“Give us some of that extra magic you’re hogging!” Rainbow Dash called as she flew in for another attack. Tirek waited until the last second and bent out of the way. Rainbow went flying past her target and crashed into a small fruit stand, sending the produce rolling. The drawback of being the fastest flier in all of Equestria is that it doesn't guarantee you’re the fastest at slowing down.

“It’s time I take what’s rightfully mine.” Tirek declared as he moved over to the rattled pegasus. “Give up and I’ll spare your friend.” Tirek was now standing over Dash who hadn’t gotten up yet. Tirek pinned her down with a hoof and pressed hard earning a wince from the mare being crushed.

“Don’t worry about me…” Dash began. “Just hit him harder.” She hissed as Tirek pressed more. Meanwhile Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy all looked at each other knowing they couldn’t risk putting Rainbow in further harm. They wouldn’t give up on the element of loyalty after all.

“Come, bring me your magic one at a time and I shall release her.” Tirek threatened.

Twilight hesitated. If they gave up their magic, that would be it. No more elements of harmony. She couldn’t see an easy way out of this. They couldn’t abandon Dash, but if they all lost their magic would they be abandoning the rest of the fighting ponies, or even the rest of Equestria?

“Time is running out. Decide!” Tirek bellowed, pressing hard enough now that Dash let out a yell as one of her ribs cracked.

“There will be no decision!” Lord Tirek’s face suddenly yanked to the side and he was knocked off his feet, having been unprepared for the surprise blow. A fist had connected with his head.

Tirek was quick to get up. “Ah I know that voice. My fellow human is still siding with the losing side. Without magic you are nothing!” Tirek sent out another one of his hoof stomp shockwaves and this time the invisible Blazing was the one flying backwards tumbling end over end on the concrete. The pain in his body was now making him instantly regret socking the centaur, but at least Dash had been able to use the moment to role to the side and get out of the way. Somewhere in Blazing’s roll he had lost the invisibility armband.

To make matters worse, Nightshade had to switch course halfway to the train station to defend another part of town being overrun with changelings. At least Spike had come the whole way.

With Rainbow out of harm's way the other element bearers were able to attack again, restarting the battle where it left off. Tirek moved to crush Blazing but was intercepted by a party cannon exploding in his direction. It was almost comedic seeing the pink centaur now covered in party favors, a Pinkie Pie element of laughter specialty.

“Enough!” Tirek shouted. The centaur began lifting almost everything in the vicinity with telekinesis including the ponies, human, and dragon present. In his rage he didn’t think much about what he would do with everything in his grasp. Twilight teleported to remove the hold on herself and grabbed Tirek in her own telekinesis.

“Put my friends down!” Twilight demanded.

“As you wish princess!” Tirek slammed Blazing and Spike into the ground and threw the element bearers at Twilight. She quickly let go of Tirek to catch her friends hurtling towards her.

Blazing’s legs and shoulders ached as he pushed himself back up to his feet. “Twilight I think I know how we can win. You have to hit me with the elements.” Blazing’s right hand was in his pocket as he turned the ring over in his fingers again.

“Are you crazy?! We can’t risk doing something like that. You’re non magical. What are you going to do? What if it harms you since you’re not a part of harmony anymore?!”

Blazing took the ring out of his pocket and finally put it on his finger. He hadn’t realized before how much the gemstone looked like Twilight’s cutie mark. “Just trust me Twilight. I have to do this! Spike, can you buy us time?”

The baby dragon nodded as he stood between Blazing and Tirek exhaling fire at the centaur. Spike kept the blaze going as Tirek sent a blast of magic to counter the flames.

“I can’t lose you again!”

“You have to trust me! This is the 50% chance.”

Twilight still didn’t look like she approved of this plan but she did want to trust Blazing. “Let’s do this girls!” Twilight grouped up with her friends around Rainbow Dash who was still hurt from before and they prepared the elements.

Blazing recalled Colossians 3:14, …And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. With the stage set and the bearers of harmony rising into the sky about to shoot him with their magic, Blazing thought about the fact that this could be his last moments. His life flashed before his eyes and he thought about what he would want to say to his dying breath. He had made good friends in Equestria, and found a pony that really cared about him. In fact she had been his motivation to stay and fight. Now he was sure of it. “I love you Twilight.”

With the ring on his finger, Blazing closed his eyes and envisioned the rune for star. (☉) The same star that took Winter Storm’s life. Well now or never Blazing thought, mustering all his courage to not run away from this. Nothing could prepare him for the inevitable shockwave of rainbow that hit his body, turning the whole world bright. He lifted his right hand over his head, drawing a circle with his finger and finishing the motion by leaving his hand in the middle. His whole body burned and the light expanded outwards in a spherical wave, covering all of Canterlot and beyond. Then, with no indication of how long that moment lasted Blazing lost all sense of awareness, his whole world going dark.

Chapter 34: Harmony

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 35: A Special Occasion

~ April 25th, 1020 ME ~

‘7:00pm‘

“Good evening, Sir Blazing Waters.”

“Good evening, your majesties.” Celestia stood beside Luna at the top of the stairs. The entrance to the palace was decorated for the occasion and a red carpet filled the entry. The Princesses stood in their royal regalia while Blazing was dressed in a custom designed suit from Rarity. It was amazing how fast she could work. She had insisted that he shouldn’t buy an outfit anywhere else because she would make him something fabulous as a gift.

The event that night was in celebration of the victory three days prior and Blazing was a guest of honor. The country had been in mixed states of celebration and mourning, but today called for something special to recognize the victory. The day had practically been declared a National holiday. Ponies were relieved of work and the guard that had fought were all guests to the main event.

Blazing worked his way past the royal sisters who continued welcoming guests. Much like the grand galloping gala, the party was taking place in the palace ballroom. Unlike the gala, the room was decorated by Pinkie Pie with streamers, balloons, and lights, making it a much more colorful and lively atmosphere. Tables were strategically placed around the room, the stage was filled with live orchestral music, and the middle of the room was an open dance floor.

At the doorway to the ballroom, Blazing looked around trying to spot somepony familiar. It didn’t take long. Pinkie had wasted no time and was already dancing, Rarity was socializing with some well dressed stallions, Rainbow Dash was walking with Spike over towards the food, and Twilight sat with Applejack and Fluttershy at a corner table talking amongst themselves. Blazing had a feeling he was going to enjoy himself tonight. If it went really well he may even cherish the memories for the rest of his life. The evening was only just getting underway!

The food was exquisite, the music was pleasant, and the chatter from the party goers was in full swing. Blazing had joined Twilight and company at the table only after first taking some pointers from Rainbow and Spike by getting some food. They had everything at the food table: Expensive bread, fine cheese, flowers that could have just as easily been decoration instead of food.

Blazing was pretty excited when he had entered the room, but now sitting with his friends he was feeling a little nervous for what he was going to do next. After all, he hadn’t really talked much about what happened before he had disappeared. Finding the courage now thankfully wasn’t as bad as risking his life. Blazing slowly stood and approached Twilight as one song came to an end and another began. He looked a little awkward, like he was trying not to trip over himself having four legs again. She looked beautiful, wearing a blue dress that complemented her purple eyes. “Twilight Sparkle, may I have this dance.”

At first she was slow to answer. Is there a book on how to express these emotions that are fluttering inside me right now? Twilight thought. Then she acknowledged that this was a case where some things are better done without referencing a book. “You may.” She stood and walked with him out onto the dance floor.

“Sorry if I’m not doing this right. I didn’t think I’d get to experience my first dance as a pony.” Blazing said apologetically.

“I haven’t really done this before either.” Twilight responded sheepishly.

“Well then we’re in this together.” He smiled as he looked into Twilight's eyes, the two of them swaying back and forth to the music.

“What’s it like not having magic?” Twilight was thinking about Blazing as a human although she wanted to facehoove remembering he also couldn’t use magic as he was now. Thankfully she was relieved that Blazing hadn’t taken it the wrong way.

“No magic makes the world follow rules that make humanity strive to push the limits of what’s possible. Sometimes people talk about magic though, imagining a world where a bit of creativity can make anything possible. Too bad for them I’m the one who met the element of magic.” Twilight blushed at Blazing’s comment. The two of them finished the dance as the song concluded. This is it, Blazing thought. “Walk with me?” Twilight nodded and followed Blazing. She was really enjoying herself to the point where she was trying to relax so that she could actually talk without getting ahead of herself.

They went out onto a balcony overlooking Canterlot. Celestia was about to set the sun to be replaced with Luna’s moon. As the sun made its exit from the horizon, fireworks began to shoot across the sky, the flowering explosions lighting it up once again. Twilight was mesmerized by the wonderful display and she couldn’t think of anypony else she’d rather be watching it with. Blazing took a deep breath and looked over at the beautiful mare beside him.

“Twilight I realized these last two weeks that you’re special to me. You make me smile, you make me laugh, you are always trying your best. You are a wonderful pony.” He had her full attention now, Twilight staring at Blazing in expectation. “Will you be my special somepony?” Blazing wondered if he had said it right as he awaited in anticipation for her response.

“Yes! Blazing I’ve been wanting to tell you ever since that moment when you asked me to trust you and you made that sacrifice… I love you!” Blazing Waters and Twilight Sparkle embraced each other and held there for a while. Fireworks continued over the city skyline. It was an incredible moment, but it was Twilight that ended it a little prematurely as she remembered something important.

“But what about your home?” Twilight asked a little concerned, remembering that despite her emotional high, Blazing was essentially giving up on his past by becoming her special somepony. “We still owe you a return trip, and I can’t ask you to leave behind everything else important to you for me.” She felt awful thinking about him leaving now that they were dating, but she also felt bad thinking about him not returning to the world she had stolen him from.

“It’s ok Twilight…” Blazing began, while looking straight into her eyes in a reassuring manner. “I am home.”

Epilogue

~ 6 Months Later ~

“Can I open my eyes yet?”

“Not yet, keep them closed. We’re almost there.”

“How about now?”

“A little bit farther.”

Twilight was playing a guessing game as to where they were going. The biggest clue was that the location for this date was a surprise. Where would Blazing take me on a surprise date? Her friends in Ponyville had been acting a little strange the last few days too, especially Pinkie. You could say she had been a little extra bouncy.

“Can you at least tell me where we’re going?”

“As Big Mac is always sayin’… Nope.” Blazing gave his best impression of the Apple family's southern draw. “That would ruin the surprise.”

“Oh fine. Will I at least like it?”

“I think you will.” Twilight and Blazing crested a hill that was overlooking Ponyville. Canterlot Castle was visible in the distance framed up as the perfect backdrop. It was dark outside but the lights from the town below and the castle windows made for a cool visual effect. “Ok you can remove the blindfold now.” Twilight removed the blindfold and opened her eyes to see a romantic scene before her. The viewpoint was decorated with candles faintly glowing. Flower petals were scattered across the ground. She stood under an archway decorated with silk curtains and soft white lights strung around it. Blazing was there beside her, having turned himself to face her.

"Twilight, the last six months with you have been an adventure.

I know how much you love books and I wanted to see if you would share your story with me, an adventure to last a lifetime..." Blazing Waters knelt down and pulled out a small box.

"Twilight Sparkle, will you marry me?"

Her heart fluttered in her chest, and there was no hesitation in her response.

"Yes!

Yes, Yes, Yes! Let's make the best story ever!"

Twilight and Blazing shared a kiss.

The ring that Blazing put around Twilight's horn had a diamond in the center shaped like a 6-sided star. He'd have to thank Discord later. The Spirit of Chaos hadn't been seen since the battle at Canterlot, but the ring with Twilight's cutie mark as the centerpiece was perfect. Twilight's friends all jumped out of hiding and cheered, Pinkie looking about ready to explode from the surprise. Twilight was happy to be surrounded by her loving friends and excited about her future with Blazing. He was right, their story was only just beginning.

~ The End ~

Author's Note

It has been a fun journey! Hope you all have enjoyed coming along for the ride! If you made it this far, I thank you for taking the time to read my story and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did writing it! I'm not that good at writing, but I am glad I get to share my first story with you. Now I'll have to go back through everything and find all the plot holes and mistakes haha. Until next time!

Chapter 4: Knowledge, Knowledge, and more Knowledge

~ April 10th 1020 ME ~

The last few days had been very eventful. Shortly after the incident with the stranger, a letter arrived from Twilight's friends in Ponyville. Twilight was not surprised to hear that the cutie map showed her cutie mark tasked to a mission in Canterlot. The part that she was struggling to come to terms with was that it was at the palace, and Twilight was sure that it had to do with the newest arrival. The last two days, Twilight had been spending a little extra time catching up with family, which her parents were overjoyed with. Today was the day she finally received word from Celestia that the stallion was awake, so she made plans to go and visit that afternoon. She even promised Spike that he could come this time.

The harder pill to swallow was that he claimed he wasn’t from their planet, let alone native to their species. Twilight wrestled with the impossibilities of transformation magic slipping into her spell, but worse than that she blamed herself for everything. She had torn some being from everything they knew with the potential that they could be stuck in Equestria.

Although the prospect of learning completely foreign information was super exciting, she didn’t want to let her hunger for knowledge come in the way of helping him. Twilight didn’t feel like apologizing would be enough, but she had to start somewhere. She also wasn’t just sticking around because of the cutie map, and would keep the information regarding the mission under wraps. She was going to do everything in her power to make it up to this stallion she had hardly met, and hopefully he would appreciate the gesture. If not she was in for a whole lot of trouble!

Twilight and Spike arrived at the castle around 3 to officially confront the cause of Twilight's guilt. Thanks to Twilight’s new position as the latest princess, she was allowed entry through most of the doors and rooms in the castle, making it easy to come and go. Walking through the main entryway she passed two earth pony guards posted to the door. Waving at them as she passed, they remained stone faced, eyes fixed forward.

Since Twilight was quite familiar with the castle layout, she made her way toward the medical wing with Spike in toe, where the Stallion would likely still be. When she got there, she lightly knocked on the door three times.

“Who is it?” Came a nice crisp baritone voice from the inside.

“My name is Twilight Sparkle, and I wanted to check in on you. We didn’t really get to talk the first time I met you. I also brought my assistant Spike with me.”

“Alright come in. Celestia told me you would likely stop by, and I don’t have much better to do right now.”

Twilight and Spike opened the door, and strode into the room. The pony was sitting in the corner of the room twisting his hoofs in various directions, no doubt testing their flexibility.

“What’s your name sir? Celestia didn’t mention it in her letter.”

“Just call me Mr. Waters. I don’t have a lot of friends, so I typically use my name more for business purposes.”

“Oh, well my name is Twilight Sparkle, and this is my assistant Spike.” Mr. Waters glanced up acknowledging their presence for the first time only to flinch back at spotting Spike.

“What? Is something on my face?” Spike questioned.

“What are you?”

You think people would know a dragon when they see one, he thought. “I’m a dragon of course! Still in my early years though.”

“D-d-dragons are real?! This just keeps getting weirder. Next you're going to tell me that it rains chocolate milk.”

Twilight scratched the back of her head. “It has done that before, but the draconequus responsible has been reformed.”

“Wow... I’ll add that to my list of things to process. It's long enough now to cover a few square miles.”

“So it’s really true then? You’re not from Equestria?”

“(Sigh) No, I'm from a planet called Earth, and my species is referred to as humans. I already asked Nurse Red Heart, and apparently you guys are fresh out of those around here. We’re also the only species that is um... sentient. The closest thing we have to Spike on our planet is probably a lizard.”

“Did he just compare me to a lizard?” Spike asked, trying not to sound offended.

“If it’s all the same to you guys, I’d rather not talk about my planet. I already shed enough tears over what I left, and I don’t want to think about it.”

“Of course. I know I could never understand what you're going through, but I’m very sorry for what happened. I think you deserve to know.... it’s my fault you're here.” Twilight finished dejectedly.

“I know. I recognized the purple sparks when you opened the door. I’m not sure if I can forgive you, but I promised myself not to get mad at you either. I figured one thing shouldn’t define my entire perception of someone, so I’m giving you a chance. Not to mention my voice is still tired from excessive yelling on this planet.”

“Wow... that is very well put. Thank you for your understanding Mr. Waters! Anyways since you didn’t want to talk about yourself, how about a tour of the castle?”

“I would be glad to get out of this room. These walls are starting to close in on me. I hate feeling stuck!”

As they began wandering through the maze of halls, Twilight began to point out the beautiful artwork, tapestries, and window designs. Spike even commented about how awesome the royal kitchens were when they passed.

All things considered, Twilight felt like things were going fairly well, despite Mr. Waters remaining relatively quiet. He almost fell on his face a few times, which Twilight felt terrible about, but he managed to stay upright in the end. The next room they came up to was the library.

“The next room is one of my favorites, and a place I’ve lost many hours indulging in studies.” As Twilight opened the door, Mr. Waters stepped in first, but he stopped halfway through the doorway with his jaw agape.
(Error: Chase.exe has quit working)

Twilight couldn’t figure out what was wrong with him, but the awkward silence was broken by the sound of his voice.

“This place is huge! This is amazing! What kind of things do ponies study in Equestria? I should refer to you as ponies right? What is the probability I could read some of these books? You said you spent a lot of time here... do you like reading?” Spike facepalmed at his antics; ‘oh great another Twilight he said under his breath. Twilight however was soaking it all in, and building off of Mr. Waters enthusiasm, a huge smile gracing her face.

“Actually I’ve read most of the books in here, and could tell you all about them. I’m not sure what your world is like, but we have doctors, farmers, lawyers, politicians, performers, science and magic studies, mathematicians, teachers, weather ponies, and all kinds of other occupations! I’m sure you could request to check a few books out. Personally my favorite are magic theory, and accounts of Starswirl the bearded, but we have adventure books too! My friend Rainbow Dash loves to read the Daring Do books, and Rarity appreciates some of the Equestrian romance novels. What do you like?”

“Well I was actually studying to be an engineer, so I study a lot about physics and math. Honestly though I love the idea of learning new things. I was actually going to be valedictorian before...” as Chase trailed off he began to look like he was trying to hold back some tears, but quickly recovered. “...Anyways, I still can’t believe magic is real! Who can do magic? What kind of spells are there?” As Chase and Twilight began to get into it, Spike began to wander over to one of the benches to sit down. When conversations like this started, there was no telling how long it would take. Mr. Waters was cool, he supposed, but also rather mysterious. ‘It was too bad he didn’t talk to me more’ Spike thought as he started Dozing off on the chair.

Twilight was in the middle of talking about the horn functioning as a unicorn's focal point for magic, when she got a wild idea. 'What if I could teach this pony magic? They say teachers learn along with their students.' She didn't even realize she had stopped talking until Mr. Waters broke her thoughts.

"You know I don't really know what I'm supposed to do here, but I doubt Celestia will let me stay here forever. It sounded like you were planning on creating a return spell, correct?"

"Yes of course. In the meantime maybe we should go discuss with the Princess where you will be staying."

"I suppose you're right. I don't want to impose on anybody so I should probably try and find a way to start making myself useful."

"You don't have to do anything to receive a gift, and it's anypony by the way."

"Huh?"

"The pronoun is anypony. I don't know what 'body' you're referring to, but we say anypony."

"Uh huh. Well don't expect me to remember that."

"Sorry I have a tendency to expect perfection out of things. I think by now the princess should be wrapping up day court. Let's head to dinner, and we can talk about your future there."

"I really don't like the way you said that. That sounds like I need to be worried."

"Oh no, not here. We are all friends. We are stronger because we work together. Friendship is the strongest form of magic!"

"If you say so." Chase said with a chuckle, not believing her despite the many other oddities he had learned.

"Come on Spike, let's go get something to eat."

"Spike?"

Twilight listened for a second and heard the faint sound of snoring coming from across the room. As she approached him with Mr. Waters he stirred and got off the chair.

"What time is it?" Spike asked groggily

"Almost 6." Twilight answered.

"You guys talked for 2 hours? What else is new."

"Come on Spike, we're headed to get some food."

"Well there's music to my ears. Right behind you!"

And with that the trio headed off towards the dining hall with some excitement in their step. Twilight had really enjoyed her conversation with Mr. Waters, and was looking forward to what the future would hold. Most of all though she was curious why he had said he didn't have many friends. He seemed like a nice individual, and Twilight was determined to get to the bottom of it.

Chapter 14: The Plans Have Left the Building

Author's Note

I recently started college... life has gotten slightly busier to say the least. I never was super into writing, but the creative side of storytelling has captured me. I haven't given up on this story and I want to see it through to the end. Everyone has to have their first book sometime. Thanks for your continued support and patience. Enjoy!

Chapter 14: The Plans Have Left the Building

~ April 17th, 1020 ME ~

‘9:07am‘

"Time for that chat now Twilight. You owe me this after yesterday's fiasco." Things had slowly settled down as the night went on, so Blazing did earn himself a little sleep, but the remnants of the events from the day before were still quite an unsettling reminder that he was a target. The Ursa minor had been a rude awakening to what lies in Equestria, but Sombra was that ten fold. No being should have that much power, not even the princesses as far as Blazing was concerned. This was one of many thoughts running rampant through his mind while sipping some morning coffee. Now it was time for some answers.

"Blazing I don't think anything I say will make this sound any better but I truly have been genuine with you in our interactions. I am still going to do everything in my power to help you get home. I know I'm responsible for you being stuck, and maybe it was wrong of me to keep this a secret, but you had taken on a lot as it was. How was I supposed to tell you that maintaining balance in our world has something to do with you. "

"You could have at least warned me that I was an Equestria VIP that could expect craziness to ensue around every corner. Being in control of everything is never a good thing Twilight because that's when things start to get out of control. If we can't trust each other with this kind of information I could have died yesterday! I'm pretty sure the only reason I didn't was because he had some disgusting plan of using me for whatever he desired!"

"Don't talk like that, Blazing. I know we just met, but I don't want to hear talk of losing you... we're friends, and friends stick together."

"Maybe but I've never heard of friends that lie about things that could potentially hurt the other."

"Hey you two! I may be a young Dragon, but I have enough sense to say this is pointless! You have way bigger problems than bickering."

That was enough to silence the room. No evidence had come in from army patrol investigations on the whereabouts of Sombra or what was coming down the pike. Celestia had personally requested higher security as a form of deterrence, but that was unlikely to stop any major threats.

"What is normalcy around here? For a nation with hardly any wars you guys don't seem to live the peaceful lives I would have imagined."

"Well you're right about one thing, Blazing. When things go down in Equestria it usually happens around me or one of my-”

"-Sorry to interrupt, but I'm just going to take Chase here for a second to have a little chat with him back on Earth. He's been quite the little pony for stirring up chaos!"

A hand reached out from behind Blazing's chair at the table, tipping it backwards into a portal that appeared out of thin air and dispersed just as quickly as it formed. Spike and Twilight stared at the empty spot in the dining hall for a moment before Twilight let out a single word in a yell.

"Discord!!!"

"Ah, finally I get to meet the man of the hour! The human himself!"

There were a lot of things for Blazing to process. For one his chair was hundreds of feet in the air and he was sitting on top of the statue of liberty. For another when he looked down, his old body was right where he left it. So many brain functions were firing that asking why whatever just talked to him called him Chase was low on his priority list.

"I'm human... I'm human!"

Behind him a disfigured being floated above him. It was a mix between many different animals that didn't go together, and if that wasn't strange enough it was also wearing shades and munching on popcorn.

"Yes... now I don't have the next millennium… actually I do, but you don't so let's cut to the chase. Huh good one... oh I know right."

Discord pulled out a world record pair of scissors, and then promptly put them away, opting instead to pull a scroll out of thin air. Instead of reading off of it, he flipped it upside down, breathed on it and sent it away in a puff of smoke.

"Look I don't know if I should hug you for bringing me home, or punch you for putting me in a life threatening position, but could you please get us down from here?” Chase asked.

"Unfortunately Mr. Waters, we aren't here to stay... You can call this a vacation of sorts so we can have some privacy for a few minutes."

"No! Uh-uh! You are not taking me back, no way! You don't just flash my past before my eyes and steal it again. That's beyond-"

"-Chaotic. I know I get that a lot. It kind of fits in my job description. Now where were we... ah yes Chase I have greatly enjoyed watching you since I helped nudge you in the right direction a few times. Destiny seems to be rather fond of you, and I wanted you to know that I think you add some real powerful flavor to Equestria. So different from the average pony!"

"Now you wait here just one moment-"

"-Ah buh buh buh" Discord zipped up Chase's lips zipper style, and threw the key over his back shoulder. "None of that Blazing. I do like that name by the way. It suits your pony form nicely. Back to business. We are invisible to the outside world; merely appearing as an eagle. I am not all knowing but I, being the lord of Chaos, do know that you are essential to balance. Chaos would become boring if I was forced to live in a world constantly in such a state... I have learned that, and as such you were brought to Equestria by the Princesses with a little magical interference by... you guessed it me! (Fireworks go off behind Discord).

Cutie marks give ponies a destiny; a life in which they do what they love, but are guided towards certain events. Your past isn't of Equestria, so you don't have a traditional path, but your earning of a cutie mark links you to that world. Your future isn't set in stone, but you now represent the existence of both a choice and a destiny. I will confirm to you that those seeking power want to use your rare abilities, but they also are afraid of you. You're an unknown in which they don't know your limitations. Chaos has been talking too long however and must get back to something less orderly than this conversation. It is not my place to share what is coming but know this; it is coming, and you must be prepared to face the foe because without you in the picture the future of Equestria is rather bleak. The odds went from about 95% chance of living in a wasteland to 50% upon your arrival. Also I think you and Twilight make a cute couple... May the force be with you."

With that Chase's mouth was released, and Discord vanished into thin air. Hopefully there wouldn't be any more encounters with him again, but at this point Chase was just happy that Discord left him on Earth... even if he was on top of the statue of liberty. Chase began making plans to climb down from his position on the torch when he heard a sound that reminded him of the transporter from Star Trek.

"Ah man..."

Chase started to slide down the side of the torch's flame when he suddenly saw himself start to dematerialize.

"Damn."

And just as quickly as he arrived, Chase disappeared from Earth and reappeared just above the ground in Twilight's private dining room. He fell on his haunches surrounded by the main six yet again, and put his hooves over his head.

Just end this torture already.

'Twilight Sparkle'

When Discord left with Blazing I couldn't help but let out some frustration. For a man reformed from his destructive past, he never fails to be the most unpredictable being in Equestria, and there's no telling where they went. Things really seem to be getting out of hand, and Ponyville's always a hot spot for magical activity so that means something. I felt it important to let the element bearers know what was going on in case things went south, but Pinkie let me know that she had a twitchy ear which meant somepony was saying something important. My fears were short lived when a message popped up with upside down writing. "Yup this is from Discord alright."

All of my friends looked at me expectantly, and Fluttershy asked, "Well... what does it say?"

"Hello friends it's time for who wants to be a milliomare. I'm your host Chaos! Don't worry about your human friend and I, we are totally not safe having a boring chat! However if you must worry, he will be back in Twilight's castle in about pi minutes which will not repeat mind you. Since I can't be specific enough, know that I am sharing information that could change the course of history... trust me I have experience with doing that. This is National level information, but it would be too simple of me to just share it with the highest leadership, so I'm using this as an opportunity to meet our off world guest; very disappointed you haven't introduced me by the way. Signed Dis cord is on fire."

Suddenly the message turned to ash as if it had been burnt by a campfire and blew away in the wind.

"Ah think it's bout' time we paid Blazing a visit." Applejack concluded.

"Or time for me to give Discord a scolding." Fluttershy squeaked.

"That's the funny thing about time... do we ever have enough?" Twilight continued.

"That's why we have each other silly." Pinkie finished.

Pinkie's right! we look out for each other... We have done incredible things together. The time lasts a lifetime when we support each other with our strengths and its all the more valuable. I think a letter to Celestia is in order. Hopefully my mentor isn't mad at me for interrupting her busy schedule so much... wow she must be having a horrible time managing things right now...

"Ladies, I know we all have lots of work to do, but I think it may be time we take a trip to Canterlot. Pinkie's sense has really been a doozy in a good way today, and if Discords message is anything to go by Blazing needs to be there as well. Its time for answers; time for a plan. You with me?"

"You know we are Twilight. Lead the way and I will be right behind you." (Rarity)

"Yeperoni." (Pinkie Pie)

"I'm in!" (Rainbow Dash)

"Yuuup." (Applejack)

"I suppose as long as somebody takes care of the animals." (Fluttershy)

"Then here we go."

Chapter 21: Victories Cut Short

Part II ~ No Turning Back

~ April 19th, 1020 ME ~

‘2:01pm‘

Dream portals flowed through an endless void of the dreamscape. Most of the population was awake at this time, but a number of exhausted ponies from the night before were asleep, their minds dreaming away. Very few of the dreams were pleasant. Nightmares plagued the survivors of the battle. Was this the built-up stress showing itself? Luna in particular was asleep yet feeling exhausted. Her strength was hardly enough to even perform her duties of protecting the dreams of her subjects. When was the last time she had felt this tired? Luna approached the nearest dream. It was clearly a nightmare, and the poor foal needed her help!

She rushed to enter the dream but upon contacting the surface of the portal, she found herself passing right through it. Looking behind her the same dream loomed there, slowly drifting along completely undisturbed by her presence. She tried to interfere again only to find her efforts had come up empty. Why was this dream ignoring her! This was getting frustrating quickly. Luna tried to enter several other pony's dreams but continued to fail. How could she, the Princess of the Night, be unable to complete her duty? Since mastering dream walking Luna had never failed! While she was taking a moment to collect herself things began to change. The dream bubbles began converging on her location. What's going on! Luna looked around for an escape but they were moving in from all sides. The dream scape doesn't typically have a good concept for directions but Luna was the sun and the dreams revolved around her. She was unprepared for what came next. A familiar voice spoke, sending chills down Luna's spine. Her whole body began to quiver.

"Youuu arrre powerlesssss Luna. Your inadequacy-ee made you easily defeated by crrreatures of the night'. When the end draws near I'm coming for youuu. I will take what I deserve, leaving none of you behind this time. We could have been so much, but I don't need your mind any more. Sooo... what would ponies think if they knew Luna couldn't even win in her own domain?" The cold voice began to laugh menacingly. "I'll let you think on that while you enjoy this nightmare! Sweet dreams Princesss!"

Luna began falling, flapping her wings with no effect. She called upon her magic to try and manipulate her surroundings to no avail. The fall never seemed to end. Wind ripped at her fur, while she was left to wonder if and when she'd hit the bottom. Seconds turned into minutes, and minutes felt like hours. The terror she felt in her powerlessness was unimaginable. She hadn't had a nightmare, let alone dreamed since she was a foal, yet here she was with no control.

"Don't worry Luna... You won't be hitting rock bottom tonight."

At the snap of a finger a cloud formed that caught Luna, stopping her endless fall. It had a strange pink tinge to it.

"Discord?" Luna exclaimed with great surprise. she sat up on the cloud and spotted the chaos spirit gliding over to her.

"Don't sound so surprised. I came to deliver a message only to find you being tormented by a spirit of evil far darker than anything I ever thought up. You looked like you could use a spirit of chaos." He said with a smirk.

"We didn't think you were the type to sleep or dream. I've never spotted one of your dreams before."

"Oh no, I'm not sleeping or dreaming, you are, and I'm just here on official business." Discord was now wearing a suit and tie which he took a moment to straighten as he landed beside Luna on the pink cloud. "Besides, I promise you wouldn't want to see one of my dreams."

"Very well Discord, we thank thee for delivering us from our fall. Now what art thou business?"

"Slipping into old speech again, are we Luna? Makes you feel more comfortable. Well I suppose... Let's get down to business, to defeat the... impending disaster. I still can't interfere too greatly in the conflict yet, but Blazing is behind on learning to use his magic. Additionally you're still facing more danger than you realize. What else..." Discord whipped out a scroll and reading glasses while skimming down the apparent list. "There's also the problem with organization to worry about. Twilight needs to be on the troop command team with her brother. The general population is too spread out to protect. The enemy wants to split your attention. AHHH there's just too much to cover and so little time. I'll just have to trust Blazing and the Elements of Harmony to figure some of this out.

Luna, I despise being serious... but the reason I came to you is that you are the only one that can defeat your nightmare. The Nightmare is not you, and Nightmare Moon is no longer. I know you still struggle to forgive yourself, but you're going to have the choice at some point to face your fear or let the nightmare win. This is a battle that you alone will have to face, and the fate of Equestria is weighted on this decision. Others will have to make difficult choices as well, but I'm specifically here to warn you not to let anger or fear cloud your judgment. This is one of the last times we will speak for a while so take care and enjoy the cotton candy."

Take care, had to be one of the nicest things Luna had ever heard Discord say, but then her mind went straight to the cotton candy, and all she could think was, the spirit of chaos strikes again.

Luna jolted upright in her bed, which was now filled with strawberry flavored cotton candy.

"Discord!"

‘4:24pm‘

"Twilight, would you mind explaining to me why you not only left Canterlot, but had been making weapons in your basement?" Celestia was glaring at Twilight with a rather disapproving face.

"Princess Celestia, please don't banish me! I'm sorry I've failed you as a student. It won't happen again. I'll give up anything if you just let me stay with my friends and family!"

"Oh, Twilight, you know I don't have any intention of doing that, and you of all ponies don't fall short as a student. I just need to know why you put yourself in danger when I gave you so much responsibility in our absence?" Celestia now was wearing a motherly smile while showing some sympathy for Twilight.

"I just couldn't bear losing Spike, and when I found out somepony broke into my secret lab I thought my brother was in trouble!"

"That still doesn't explain the weapons Twilight. Why were you making magical weapons?"

Twilight's ears, which were already folded back, seemed to shrink back even more. "Princess I... I..." She took a deep breath trying to collect herself. "It was a theory. My latest project was based around material science and thaumic radiation. Compounds resistant to magical energy must have a weakness. Solids crushed into a powder form have more surface area so I theorized they should be able to absorb more magic. At first the plan was to use these chemical powders to make magically resistant materials absorb more magical energy. Then I realized that they could be used to store and supply more mana over a longer period of time. So, I began experimenting with enchantments on items that were powered by magic stored within the object. The storage method was to implement the powder inside. Then I learned how to imbed long term spells into the items, and I got so excited I felt like I needed to make an enchantment for every spell I knew. Then I started trying to make the spells penetrate the more magic resistant metals, and then they became more volatile in nature, and then... ohhhh I'm sorry Celestia.” Twilight finished her monologue looking dejectedly at the ground.

"Oh Twilight... I know you well and none of this is surprising from a mare as smart as you, but perhaps you should publish some of this research and work with others on it. The most important lesson here is that you need to trust those around you. Working on this research alone is dangerous and could easily go too far without someone to keep things in check. Now that we have that cleared up, I have a new assignment for you if you're willing to take it?"

"Anything for you Princess!" Twilight replied with clear relief and excitement.

"I'm glad to hear it, but you need to think hard about this, Twilight. This will be unlike anything I've asked of you before. Please think about this completely before agreeing."

"Okay." Said a Twilight now visibly nervous again.

"Equestria needs you to join your brother in organizing the guard. We've all had to do things we're not used to recently, but this in particular seems like a lot to ask."

"Celestia, when you say Equestria needs me, I'm not sure. It would be a good challenge and I want to help but... I mean my friends and I have saved Equestria before, but isn't there somepony more qualified than me? What if I mess things up? What if ponies get hurt because of me? What if-"

"Twilight, I ask you because you're one of the most qualified ponies I know. I consider you far more than a student, I trust you as an equal. Just know that part of making difficult decisions isn't that you won't make mistakes, it's that you'll be willing to learn from past decisions to make better ones. I know you have the best interests of My Little Ponies at heart."

"Well Celestia, if you believe in me then so should I! I accept the responsibility!"

"Your Majesty! Forgive me for interrupting but I bear urgent news!" An earth pony stallion wearing the day guard uniform stood by the door breathing heavily,

"Speak freely, private Cobble."

"I was on duty among the Canterlot patrols when reports started coming in left and right for missing ponies. I had over ten cases brought to my attention, but almost every guard seemed to be getting bombarded by citizens when I rushed here to bring-" Just then, Shining Armor rushed in also looking a bit winded from a full gallop.

"Princess Celestia! I just received an urgent telegram from Baltimare! It has been reported that hundreds of ponies began acting strange and then started going missing about ten minutes ago! I think the changelings are back!"

"We must not waste any time. Chrysalis has us in a corner, and she's using innocent ponies to her advantage. Captain, Twilight has now agreed to assist you with organizing the guard. Respond how best you deem fit to help My Little Ponies."

"Yes, your majesty. Alright Twily let's do this."

"Lead the way BBBFF. I'll be right behind you."

Twilight Sparkle and Shining Armor left Celestia's presence in a haste to formulate their counter play towards Chrysalis drones.

Chrysalis had put them in check. They needed to find a way to protect their kingdom while flipping the board in their favor. So far it seemed like all the pieces were stacked against their underprepared nation.

As for Celestia, she had much work to do as well. However, trying to stay strong and remain collected for those around her was becoming a huge burden, considering how the events from the last few days had built on themself. She wanted to confide in Luna, but from their talk moments before her sister was also carrying a heavy load with the knowledge that the Nightmare was alive and stronger than ever. They may have survived a battle together, but the war had just begun.