Descendants of the Isle

Chapters

Prologue: How It All Began
Rotten at the Core
Plotting
Arrival At A Royal School
The First Attempt
First Day
A Sunny Plan
A New Plan
Baking Villain-Style
The Blitzball Game
Fantastical
What Friends Do
The Date
If It Were That Simple
Not So Happy Reunion
Family Day
The Aftermath
The Unexpected Twist
The Plan Is Stopped Before It Begins
The Parent Trap
Tender Moments and Information Gathering
The End Is Just The Beginning...

Prologue: How It All Began

Once upon a time, a long, long time ago, well... okay, maybe more like twenty years ago, all the kingdoms of Equestria came together in unity, harmony, and peace to have a huge celebration. Yeah. Big cake. Queen Rising Dawn of Alicornia, and the one true leader of Equestria, decided to step down. Huge shock, right? Well, it was in favor of two ponies, Shell Scallop and her new husband, King Sea Kelp. The King had been cursed to roam the world as a sea monster until Shell, the fair maiden villager or whatever they call same-old-heroines like her, changed him back with... wait for it... the power of love. Shocker. Not. Even worse than the story of how Chrysalis was defeated by Amore. Love. Always love. Shouldn't be surprised by now.

Anyway... the other leaders decided the couple would be the perfect example that good will always triumph over evil. So, together, they founded the United Kingdoms of Equus. And after uniting all the lands, the leaders had the “great” idea to round up all the villains, miscreants, and minor-league antagonists-basically all the really cool creatures-and boot them off to the Hidden Isle. Queen Rising Dawn even set up a magical barrier to keep them there. This is my hood. No powerful magic. No magical artifacts. No wi-fi. No way out.

Or so we thought. Hang on, you’re about to meet us, but first, this happened:

A pony with a pale yellow-green coat, sea green mane, green eyes, and a cutie mark of three sea turtles stared out a window. He was standing on a raised platform within an elegantly decorated bedroom. It was clearly his room, patterned with yellow and aqua green. Images of turtles were on the wallpaper.

The colt on the platform in a corner of the room was being fitted for a suit. As the tailor fastened the pieces together with pins and basting stitches, the colt wasn't paying much attention. He was instead gazing out the window, staring at something in the distance. As the colt tilted his head slightly, he was suddenly corrected, his head turned forwards abruptly by the tailor, who was clearly upset about the measurements possibly being wrong.

The colt sighed and instead stared across the room, at the door. This colt was Good Prince Sandbar, heir to the throne of the United Kingdoms of Equus. And this would be happening very soon. As he shuffled his hooves, two ponies entered the room.

“How is it possible you’re going to be crowned king next month, you’re just a baby!” Sandbar's father cried. He was a green coated pony with sea blue eyes and a blue mane hanging in dreadlocks.

“Sandbar’s turning sixteen, Sea Kelp, dear.” Sandbar's mother replied to her husband. She was a yellow coated mare with a pink mane and green eyes. “It’s time.”

“Hey pops.” Sandbar, greeted, which his father, Sea Kelp, talked over.

“Only sixteen, Shell? Why, that’s far too young to be a King! I didn’t make a good decision until I was... forty-two!” Sea Kelp declared.

“You decided to marry me at twenty-eight.” Sandbar's mother, Shell Scallop, said dryly.

“Well, it was either you or a conch shell.” Sea Kelp winked, making Sandbar laugh. “Kidding, darling.”

“Mom, dad.” Sandbar began, stepping forward, which drew a commanding hiss from the tailor, and he stopped. “I’ve chosen my first official proclamation.”

“Well, let’s hear it then.” Sea Kelp said

“Yes, go on sweetie.” Shell Scallop agreed, and Sandbar took a breath.

“I’ve decided… that the children on the Hidden Isle should be given a chance to live here in Equus.” He saw the shocked looks of his parents but continued, intent on getting them on his side. “Every time I look out to the island, I feel like they’ve been abandoned.”

“Sandbar, the children of our sworn enemies, living among us?!” Sea Kelp asked, but Sandbar had an answer ready.

“We start out with a few at first, the ones that need our help the most. I’ve already selected them.”

“Oh, you have, have you?” Sea Kelp asked, still sounding angry, and Shell Scallop placed a hoof on his shoulder.

“I gave you a second chance." she soothed, then looked over to Sandbar "Who are they, sweetie?”

“First, the living relatives of the Grýpas Talons, which would be one of their children. Their grandfather Gruff-"

"The Griffon who attacked Yakyakistan?!"

Sandbar nodded timidly. "He will decide which of their children can come."

Sea Kelp looked as if he was going to protest again, but Shell Scallop placed a hoof on his shoulder and shook her head.

"Fine... who else?"

Sandbar gulped nervously. He knew that if his parents had gotten mad at Gruff, then he'd be dead once he was done.

"Well... Chrysalis... Nyxmare Moon... and... the Storm King.”

“The Storm King!?” Sea Kelp bellowed, and Sandbar flinched away. The servants in the room backed out, scared.

"Dad-"

“At least the other three merely failed to take over the lands they attacked, he actually succeeded in conquering Mount Aris!”

“Only temporarily, until we stopped him! Just hear me out, please!”

“I won’t hear of it. He’s guilty of unspeakable crimes, they all are.”

“And his daughter, all their children, are innocent. Don’t you think they deserve a chance at a normal life?” Sandbar asked, and Sea Kelp turned to the window. “Dad?”

The room was silent. Sandbar stared at his dad, as Sea Kelp stared out the window. His eyes were focused on the Hidden Isle in the distance. At last, Sea Kelp turned back and looked at his son.

“...I suppose... the children are innocent.” Sea Kelp begrudgingly agreed, and Sandbar relaxed.

“Well done sweetie." Shell Scallop said encouragingly. "Shall we?” She gestured to the door.

Sandbar took one last look outside at the Hidden Isle, in the middle of the bay with a yellow dome sparkling above it. Sandbar smiled softly, before removing the still unfinished suit from himself and following his parents to the door to make the announcement of his new decree.

Author's Note

Ta-da! The first chapter of my new story! I hope you liked it, and I'm sure you can tell what I'm basing this off of. More chapters are soon to come!

~Melody Song

Rotten at the Core

Now, welcome to our little slice of Equus. Let’s see what we’re up to.

A pony in a hooded cloak, a teenage filly, it seemed, was facing a wall, a spray can lifted in a crackling blue aura. It was making an electric blue symbol of what looked like two bolts of lightning, with the words Long Live The King under them. The pony then began to sing.

“They say I’m trouble
They say I’m bad.”

The pony turned, her mouth visible from under the hood, forming a wicked grin.

“They say I’m evil,”

She flipped down her hood, revealing a bright magenta mane and a dark purple coat. She had a scar over one eye and a jagged stump of a horn rested on her forehead.

“And that makes me glad.”

The filly smirked, stalking off and dropping the spray paint into a hidden pocket in the cloak she wore.

“A dirty no-good,
Down to the bone.”

A deeper voice sang. An adolescent changeling with black chitin, lavender, pupil-less eyes, a jagged purple carapace, purple wings, and a red frill on his neck came climbing down a building using ledges.

“Your worst nightmare,
Can’t take me home!”

The changeling colt proclaimed, before proceeding to follow the unicorn filly.

A young teenage alicorn came trotting down a table, where other ponies were clearly trying to eat. She had a dark blue coat, long, flowing, midnight colored mane, and sapphire blue eyes. Her cutie mark was of a dark blotch with a white moon inside it.

“So I got some mischief in my blood
Can you blame me?”

The alicorn ducked under a metal bar, wings ruffling and flashing a suggestive look at a nearby colt.

“I never got no love.”

She stated, looking at him and winking before trotting away.

A griffon with blue fur and feathers with yellow tinges walked through an alley. He was beside a brown furred griffon with white head feathers and purple tints to some of them.

“They think I’m callous,
A low-life hood.”

As he sang, the griffon boy flicked his tail out and grasped an apple in it. The girl griffon beside him nodded approvingly before taking her own.

“I’ll show ‘em I’m not useless,”

He bit into the apple, then flung it behind him. The girl griffon smirked before going off on her own.

“Just mis-understood!”

The two fillies met up, and began to walk along, sauntering as they continued singing.

“Magic, magic, hear my call
We’re the baddest of them all!”

The two fillies then looked to the left. The griffon boy was running after them, walking over ponies trying to sleep. They shouted protests at him and the girls nodded approval at the younger creature. They looked to the right to see the changeling colt sliding down a roof and onto the ground, before taking off towards them, joining up.

“You’re trapped in our wicked world
Wicked world~”

The group leapt over a metal gate as one, the griffon bounding over it by climbing and the unicorn taking a running leap.

“We’re rotten at the core, core,
Rotten at the core
We’re rotten at the core
Why ask for more?”

The group raced past some creatures doing laundry, upsetting the order of the place and causing a ruckus.

“Ain’t nothing like the kids next,
Like the kids next door
We’re rotten at the…
We’re rotten at the…
We’re rotten at the core.”

They raced into a large public gathering area, where many ponies seemed to be either living or trying to have a normal life. The unicorn pulled out the spray paint again.

“They call me a schemer
Say I’m a freak
How could they say that?
I’m just... unique!”

The unicorn laughed to herself as she drew a “T” on a nearby cloth with the blue paint, promptly pushing the cloth away with her foreleg to reveal somepony bathing.

“What, me, a traitor?
Say I ain’t got your back?”

The changeling was singing as he walked past an area where a griffon was selling things. They looked like artifacts. He picked up a talisman with an orange gem in the center.

“Are we not friends?”

He twirled the thing in his magic, then promptly raced off with it.

“What’s up with that?”

He laughed as he heard the griffon shouting for him to come back.

The young alicorn was wandering through a place with bolts of fabric and large sheets of it hanging down from the ceiling.

“I’m a misfit
Yes, I’ll admit

I break hearts in the pursuit,
Of what I want, isn’t it cute?”

The alicorn filly flicked her tail suggestively at a young stallion, so he didn’t see her tucking a bolt of dark purple fabric under her wing.

The griffon had found his friend again, they walked through a marketplace, spilling old apples and dry vegetables everywhere.

“The past is in the past
As they say, forgive, forget.”

He snatched up an apple and tossed it to his friend, who smirked and took off, beckoning him to follow.

“The sad truth is,
You ain’t seen nothing yet!”

He jumped onto a hay cart and scrambled over, flying after his fellow griffon.

The unicorn and alicorn had reunited, standing on a balcony and watching the chaos unfold as the griffon tugged on a rope, making a metal beam move. The changeling jumped onto it and laughed loudly, holding the thing he’d stolen close against his chest.

“Magic, magic, hear my call
We’re the baddest of them all.
You’re trapped in our wicked world
Wicked world~”

“Come on!” the changeling called to the griffon as he hopped off the beam, and they flew outside, where they met up with the fillies.

The griffon that had been with the boy was the first to join them as they started jumping and dancing in sync with each other. They were joined by a gray colored female griffon, an orange dragoness, and two more changelings. The first changeling was a colt, the second a filly.

They all danced in perfect unison, stalking forwards and spinning in place. The four ringleaders began to sing.

“I’m rotten at the core, core
Rotten at the core
I’m rotten at the core,
Why ask for more?
Ain’t nothing like the kids next,
Like the kids next door

I’m rotten at the…
Rotten at the…
I’m rotten at the core!” they finished

As the group of kids began to cheer, the unicorn glanced over and saw a pony trotting by with a baby licking an old lollipop. She smirked and her broken horn charged up with a crackling aura. She carefully snatched the lollipop and held it up, grinning. As a few of the kids cheered, two large yeti-like creatures appeared, and the kids scattered. All except for the changelings, the brown griffon, and the four ringleaders.

Behind the yeti creatures came a larger yeti wearing a ram horn crown and walking up to them. The Storm King, otherwise known as Cosmos.

The unicorn turned and smirked. “Hey dad.”

“Stealing candy Tempest? I’m so disappointed.” Cosmos spoke

The unicorn, Tempest, held it up. “It was from a foal.”

“That’s my nasty mare.” he reached and snatched it from her aura, spat on it, covered it with his fist, then handed it to one of his goons. “Give it back to the wretched thing.”

“Dad…”

“It’s the actions, Tempest, that is the difference between being mean and truly evil.” Cosmos said, turning. “When I was your age I was conquering entire kingdoms.”

He ignored Tempest lip syncing with him and rolling her eyes. The other kids, except the smaller changelings, laughed. He snapped his fingers to get her attention.

“You. Listen to me. I’m just trying to teach you what really counts...how to be me.”

“I know that. I’ll serve you, father.” Tempest bowed, then smirked. “But I’ll be better.”

Cosmos then suddenly seemed to remember something. “Oh! There’s news! I almost forgot!” he gestured to the four leaders. “You four have been chosen to attend a different school...in Equus.”

“What?!” they all asked, eyes wide.

Author's Note

Second chapter out! Hope you liked it!

~Melody Song

Plotting

“What?!” all the kids asked as one

“No. I’m not going to some boarding school filled with prissy princesses.” Tempest said, shaking her head.

“And perfect princes!” the alicorn put in, and Tempest glared at her.

“Lu!”

“...Ew… princes…” she said softly. The changeling spoke up.

“Yeah, and I don’t do uniforms. Unless it’s my leather jacket. Ya feel me bro?” he turned to the other changeling colt, who nodded in confirmation.

The griffon stepped forwards “Um… Gilda told me they allow cats in Equus, and Gruff says they’re ferocious beasts…”

“Yeah!” the brown griffon, Gilda, said, walking up. “Grandpa Guff says any cats smaller than the lions from which we’re bred are unnatural. Gallus shouldn’t go, it’s dangerous.”

The changeling snuck up behind them and meowed, making Gallus spin around and swat at him. Tempest rolled her eyes at their antics, then turned back to her father.

“Point is dad, we’re not going.”

“You’re thinking small, hurricane. It’s about world domination. Goons!” he snapped his fingers and the yeti goons started to walk away. He followed them, calling out in a sing-song voice. “Tempest~”

Tempest sighed and led her friends after him. Cosmos continued talking as they walked.

“You will go. You will find the crown of the current leader; Rising Dawn’s original crown; and bring it back. Easy peasy.”

“What’s in it for us?” Tempest asked

“Matching thrones... armor complete with weapons…”

“I think she meant us.” Gallus said as they entered the large house that the group’s parents lived in.

“It’s all about me and my darling daughter.” Cosmos said nonchalantly, placing a hand on Tempest’s shoulder. “Don’t you enjoy watching innocent creatures suffer, Tempest?”

“Of course, who doesn’t?” Tempest replied as the her father sat down on a makeshift throne he’d created.

“Then get me the crown and we can see all that and so much more as I claim the throne. With that crown and my Staff we can bend both good and evil to my will.” Cosmos grabbed the mentioned staff and grinned as he held it.

“Our will."

They all turned to see Queen Chrysalis lounging on a couch. She was seated beside Nyxmare Moon.

“Yes, yes, our will.” Cosmos then snapped his fingers to get Tempest’s attention again. “And if you refuse, you’ll be grounded for the rest of your life, and you’re not getting your horn restored."

Tempest's eyes widened and she reached up to rub the base of her broken horn. The other kids all stopped whispering to each other and looked over to the two.

"He's poked the Ursa now..." Gallus murmured, then covered his beak as he remembered the creature responsible for the shattered horn in the first place. "Er, not like that-" he was cut off by a jab in the ribs by Gilda.

"But, dad-"

"Don't give me that. If you haven’t learned to listen then you deserve that reminder.”

“What? Dad-” Tempest tried to object, but her father clasped a hand over her muzzle. They began glaring at each other, until finally, Tempest pulled away. “Fine, whatever.”

“Yes! I win!” Cosmos proceeded to do a small dance.

“Luna, my little nightmare in training!” Nyxmare called, and the young alicorn trotted to her mother. “You just find yourself a prince with a big castle, a mother-in-law wing…”

“And a kingdom to spell in eternal night!” they said together, Luna beaming.

“Oh, don’t laugh, wrinkles!” Nyxmare warned “They’re not going to fear someone who looks a hundred years old.”

“Well they’re not taking Gallus! I’d miss him too much!” Gruff stalked over, and Gallus and Gilda did a double take.

“You would?” Gallus asked

“Yes! Who would help Gilda touch up my feathers, fluff my fur and file my claws?” he asked, shoving a file at Gallus and a brush at Gilda.

“You know, maybe a new school wouldn’t be the worst thing…” Gallus sighed

“Can I come with you?” Gilda asked pleadingly, at which Gruff scoffed.

“Gallus, they have cats in Equus.”

“Oh no, I’m not going!” Gallus ducked behind Gilda.

“Well Pharynx isn’t going either.” Queen Chrysalis dragged the changeling colt over with her green aura. “I need him to stock my hoard. What did you score?” she asked

Pharynx grinned and revealed the artifact he'd stolen. Chrysalis gasped.

“The Talisman of Mirage!” she grasped it and aimed at a table.

“Mom, I already checked, it’s a fake…” Pharynx told her

“Gah!” she tossed it furiously at the wall.

“But mom’s right. I need to stay and look after Thorax and Ocellus.” Pharynx glanced at the other changelings, who walked up to him.

Pharynx ran a hoof over Ocellus’ head. Thorax leaned against Pharynx as the older changeling fed his brother some love.

“Well Luna’s not going anywhere until we can get rid of this unibrow.” Nyxmare said, and Luna gasped, horn lighting up as she snatched a nearby mirror.

“What is wrong with all of you?!” Cosmos slammed his staff on the ground and they all looked to him. “Creatures used to cower at the mention of our names! For twenty years we’ve been on this island, for twenty years we were robbed of revenge. Revenge on Rising Dawn and her precious sun!”

“Bah!” Nyxmare stomped a hoof in aggravation. Cosmos turned to Chrysalis.

“Revenge on Amore and her love.”

“Grr...pesky little Princess, I’d like to stick her in-”

“Mom!” Pharynx exclaimed as Thorax covered their little sister’s ears. Cosmos finally turned to Gruff.

“Revenge on the yaks and their riches, and every tiny kitten that evaded your talons.”

“Oh, but they didn’t get mama’s tail!” Gruff held up a cat tail, laughing madly. “They didn’t get mama’s tail!”

“And I, The Storm King, mightiest of them all, will finally get revenge on those pesky ponies and friendship and saving hippogriffs and blah-blah-blah." he said, then grew serious. "Villains!”

“Yes?” Nyxmare asked

“What?” Chrysalis groaned

“Our day has come. NM, give her the crystal.” Cosmos ordered, and Nyxmare nodded, horn lighting up.

Nyxmare opened a box with her magic and brought it over, lifting up an oval shaped object, with smooth surfaces. It was a brilliant transparent crystal.

“The moon crystal. It’s not what it used to be but neither are we. It will help you find things.”

“Like a prince!” Luna cried as she lifted it up

“Like money!” Gruff called

“Like love...delicious, delicious love.” Chrysalis butted in

“Like the crown, hello!” Cosmos interrupted. “Now...I need that book...where-ah, the safe!”

He stood and walked to the purple fridge and struggled with the lock. Tempest eyed the other kids, rolling her eyes. They nodded back in agreement. Their parents called a fridge a safe. Either they were old, or just idiots. Possibly both.

“Ack! Queen, help me!” Cosmos eventually cried in exasperation

Chrysalis sighed, lit up her horn, and opened it. “Voila.”

“Yes, the spell...come hurricane!” Cosmos called to his daughter as he grabbed a small book and opened it.

Tempest trotted over, now curious. She had never seen that book before, and she'd read all the ones she and the others had managed to find and store in the house. Cosmos flipped through this new book.

“There she is." he murmured, turning to Tempest. "This was your mother’s spellbook. It won’t work here, but once you’re past the barrier it will. Remember? When we were out spreading evil...ruining lives…” he turned to the other villains.

“Like it was yesterday.” Nyxmare said

“And now you four will be making your own memories by doing exactly as I tell you.” Cosmos said, at which the kids groaned. “Now let’s go, the carriage is coming to take you to Equus.”

“Oh…” Pharynx looked at his siblings as Luna rushed to get her things packed and Tempest reluctantly headed out the door.

“Don’t worry, we’ll be okay.” Thorax told him, giving him a smile through his fangs. “I’ll take care of ‘Cellus.”

“We’ll watch out for each other.” Ocellus added

“Gallus! Come!” Gruff ordered

“What’s the greatest time of day?” Nyxmare asked Luna

“Night.” Luna replied

“Yes! Now go!” Nyxmare led her outside

“Pharynx! The mantra!” Chrysalis said, blocking his path. Pharynx had put on a black leather jacket he usually wore.

“It’s just me, myself, and I.” Pharynx replied

“Good boy.” she nudged him forwards.

Cosmos stood with Tempest, who had placed the spellbook in her bag. She was still wearing her cloak, which she pulled over her head to block the view of her horn.

“The future of the free world rests on your shoulders. Don’t blow it Tempest.” he told her.

Tempest nodded gravely, showing him that she understood. She walked to the carriage, tossing her bag into the chest at the back where things like luggage were stored. She then climbed in, ignoring the guard offering a hoof but accepting a hoof up from Pharynx.

“It smells like common ponies out here.” Nyxmare grunted.

“Gallus!”

Gruff burst from the house as Gallus flew out, a bag in his talons. They could see Gilda blocking Gruff from getting to him. He tossed it into the storage chest and flew into the carriage, drawing a shriek of alarm from Luna and grunts of annoyance from Tempest and Pharynx.

“The Timberwolves have landed.” the guard spoke into an earpiece, and then climbed into the driver’s seat.

“Bring home love!” Chrysalis called

“Bring home a kitten!” Gruff yelled

“Bring home a prince!” Nyxmare shouted, and the carriage began to move, headed for the edge of the island.

Arrival At A Royal School

Once the kids' parents had disappeared from view, they looked at each other, then at their surroundings. They saw an amazing spread of colorful treats. Pharynx and Gallus instantly dove for them, scooping them up, Gallus in his claws and Pharynx in his magic. While the boys gorged themselves, Tempest gazed out the window and Luna grabbed a thing that looked like rocks on a stick. The alicorn then pulled out her makeup kit.

“Temp, you look a bit washed out, let me help.” Luna tugged off Tempest’s hood and began brushing blush onto her cheek.

“Ew. Lu, stop, I’m plotting.” Tempest swatted her away and pulled the hood back up with her crackling aura.

Luna rolled her eyes and continued gnawing on the blue colored rocks. “Well it’s not very attractive. Mm... tastes... sweet...”

“I don’t need to be attractive.” Tempest muttered, and Pharynx looked over.

“Who needs makeup when you’re already so beautiful?” Pharynx asked, and Tempest glanced at him. “W-what? Mom said bring home love... I need to be able to flirt to do that… just practicing…” he said, sinking into the seat with a blush on his cheeks, biting into a candy.

“Mm, Phar!” Gallus had bitten a treat in half. “It’s salty like nuts but sweet like... I dunno.”

“Let me try.” Pharynx took the food from him and stuffed it in his mouth. “Mm… tastes like love. Thorax and Ocellus would like this.”

“Look!” Luna suddenly shouted, and they all turned to follow her gaze. They were heading right for the broken bridge that led off the island.

“It’s a trap!” Tempest yelled. As Luna and Gallus gripped each other, she reached and clung to Pharynx, and he hugged back.

There was the sound of something that was clearly magic, and they opened their eyes slowly. A golden bridge was expanding across the water. They gasped in amazement and looked out the windows for a better look.

“It... it must be magic.” Luna breathed.

Tempest decided to test something. What Luna had said about magic had reminded her about what her father had said. They would be able to do powerful magic once past the barrier. Tempest charged up her horn, leaning out the window. She sent sparks into the air and they exploded.

“Woah…” they all breathed.

"My turn!" Luna’s horn lit up in dark blue aura. She summoned images of stars and they swirled around the carriage.

“Neat, could you always do that?” Gallus asked. Luna shrugged.

Tempest found a button on a small piece of plastic and leaned out to the driver’s seat, making sure her hood was up. “Hey, did this thing open the magic barrier?” she asked, holding it up to him.

“Nope, that opens my garage.” the pony said, taking it from her. He held up a golden piece of metal with a button. “This opens the magic barrier.” he then promptly pulled the blinds down on the front window so she couldn’t see him.

“Heh.” Tempest chuckled.

Sandbar stood nervously beside a large yak wearing a green shawl. A white coated alicorn with a golden yellow-red, flowing mane and purple-pink eyes was standing beside them. The carriage pulled up and the band began playing. The driver hopped off and opened the door with his magic. A griffon with blue feathers and yellow accents fell out of the carriage, followed by a changeling with red fins and lavender, pupil-less eyes. They were fighting over a red cloth.

“Ah! Ow, stop! You got everything else, why do you want whatever this is?!” the griffon asked

“Because you want it!” the changeling hissed, pulling on the cloth. A pony in a hooded cloak stepped out next, followed by a blue alicorn filly.

“Guys. Guys. GUYS.” the hooded pony snapped, now clearly a female. The boys stopped and glanced up at them. “We have an audience.” she said, and the changeling scrambled up.

“Just... cleaning up.” he said, kicking the griffon in the side. “Get up.” he muttered to him.

The alicorn beside Sandbar stepped forward with a gentle smile on her face. “Leave it like you found it. And by that I mean just leave it.”

The changeling pulled a bunch of stuff out of the leather jacket he was wearing and tossed them into the carriage. “Hello... name’s Pharynx.” he said to the yak, smirking.

“Ah, hello. I am Rising Dawn, headmistress of Equus Prep.” the alicorn said in response, getting his attention.

“Rising Dawn? Former leader of Equestria? As in, Praise the Day?” the hooded pony asked

“Yes, that Rising Dawn.” she smiled

“You know, I always wondered what it felt like for Equestrian citizens when you showed up and saved them from Nyxmare. Wearing that golden crown and commanding expression…”

“Oh.” she smiled at her

“And that golden crown…” the pony continued

“That was a long time ago, and as I like to say, don’t focus on the past, or you’ll miss the future.” Rising Dawn replied

Sandbar stepped forward. “It’s so nice to meet you all. I’m Sandbar.”

The yak jumped in. “Prince Sandbar, heir to the throne and soon to be King.”

“You had me at prince.” the alicorn filly bounded forwards. “My mom’s a royal, Nyxmare Moon, which makes me a princess…” she said, fluffing her wings.

“Nyxmare Moon has no royal status here, and neither do you.” the yak said sharply.

“This is Yona.” Sandbar introduced

“Princess Yona, his girlfriend. Right Sandy?” she asked, and he nodded, blushing slightly.

“Sandbar and Yona are going to show you around, and I’ll see you tomorrow.” Rising Dawn said, gesturing with her wing to the school. “The doors of wisdom are never shut. But the library hours are from eight to eleven.” Rising Dawn told them, before leading the students off.

Sandbar stepped forwards. “It is so, so, so good to meet me... you, I mean, meet you all.” he said, extending a hoof to each of them in sequence. “This is a momentous occasion, one I hope will go down in history as the day our two creatures began to heal.”

“Or the day you showed four creatures where your bathrooms are.” the griffon said.

“A little over the top?” Sandbar asked, blushing

“Just a bit.”

“So much for a first impression.” Sandbar chuckled

“Name’s Gallus, put ‘er there.” he clapped Sandbar on the back. “The bug’s Pharynx, pony’s Tempest Shadow, alicorn’s Luna.”

“You’re Gruff’s spawn, right?” Yona asked Gallus. “You know what, I totally don’t blame you at all for your…” she trailed off

“Grandfather.” Gallus supplied

“Right... for him trying to rob my father of all our kingdom’s gold and kill all the cats. My father’s Prince Rutherford, you know, of the-”

“Yaks, yeah. Heard the name. And I don’t blame you at all for kicking my deadbeat grandfather to the Hidden Isle just for trying to scrounge up some cash.” Gallus replied

“Water under bridge.”

“Oh, totally.”

“Well…” Sandbar stepped between them. “How about a tour? Yeah... Equus prep, originally built a millennia ago, and converted into a high school by my father when he returned to the throne.”

Sandbar passed by a statue of his mother and father and stomped his hoof on the ground twice. The statue turned into a sea monster holding a mare in its embrace, and Luna screamed.

“Luna, it’s okay!” Sandbar soothed “My father wanted the statue to morph from pony to monster to remind us that true love can see through all disguises.”

“Is he slimy?” Pharynx asked

“Yeah, my mom won’t let him on the couch.” Sandbar joked, laughing as he stomped his hoof again and made it turn back. As they walked away, Pharynx stomped his hoof twice, but nothing happened. He huffed and followed the others.

“So...you guys have a lot of magic here? Like crowns and stuff?” Tempest asked as they walked into the school.

“Yeah, it exists, but it’s basically retired, most of us here are regular mortals.”

“Who happen to be kings and queens.” Gallus put in, and Sandbar laughed.

“Pretty much.” Sandbar replied

“Our royal blood goes back hundreds of years.” Yona added

“Oh! Snow, Snow, come down!” Sandbar called out suddenly.

A pale blue Pegasus teenage filly trotted down a staircase. She had a white mane with ice blue streaks, and wore large glasses with ice blue eyes showing under them. Her cutie mark was a flower with an ice blue stem and a white blossom shaped like a snowflake.

“This is Snowdrop, she’ll help you with your class schedules and show you to your dorms. I’ll be seeing you later, alright?” Sandbar gazed directly at Gallus. “If you need anything, feel free to-”

“Ask Snow.” Yona butted in, and the two headed off.

“Hey.” the filly said. “I’m Snowdrop, um... I’m not related to anyone royal, heh. I just attend the school on a scholarship…” she trailed off as something caught her eyes. “Snow way…” she was looking at Luna, who stepped forwards, smiling.

“Luna, Nyxmare Moon’s daughter.” she said politely.

“...O-Okay! So... about your classes…” Snowdrop shuffled the papers she held in her wing. “I put in the requirements already. History of Equus, safety rules on the Internet, and... remedial goodness.”

“A new class, I assume?” Pharynx asked, and Snowdrop nodded sheepishly.

“What’s with those glasses anyway?” Tempest asked

“I... I was born blind, when I received a scholarship here they enchanted these glasses for me so I could see.” Snowdrop pushed the glasses up momentarily, revealing faded blue eyes.

“Oh…” Luna hesitated

“Well… come on guys, let’s go find our dorms.” Tempest said, walking up the stairs.

“Oh, your dorms are that way!” Snowdrop called, pointing with her wing, and Luna smiled in thanks. Snowdrop stared after them in a daze, eyes following Luna.

Author's Note

Snowdrop does not belong to me. Hope you enjoyed this new chapter, more will come soon.

~Melody Song

The First Attempt

Tempest and Luna entered their room, looking around. It was decorated with pink lace hangings and curtains, along with pink canopy beds.

“Wow, this place is so amaz-”

“Gross.” Tempest cut Luna off, walking to one of the beds and tossing her bags onto it, flipping down her hood.

“I know, right, amazingly gross.” Luna said

“Ech, I’m gonna need sunscreen. Lu!” Tempest pointed a hoof at the windows. Luna’s horn glowed and the curtains snapped closed. “Thanks. Much better.”

Later, once it was night, the two girls stole into the boy’s room.

It was a colt’s heaven, with video game consoles, a 3D printer, and beds with blue sheets. Gallus was playing a virtual game, his avatar mimicking everything he did. He hovered with his wings to get a better score. Pharynx was standing by his bed, removing things from his leather jacket and bags.

“Phar, what are you doing?” Tempest asked

“It’s called stealing, Temp.”

“And the point of it?”

“It’s like buying whatever I want, except it’s free.” Pharynx replied, using his magic to clamp a gold bracelet on Tempest’s hoof as she lifted a computer in her magic, examining it.

“Okay, so you could do that, or you could leave it here and pick it up when we’ve taken over the world.” Tempest said, removing the bracelet and setting it and the computer down.

“You sound like your dad.” Luna remarked, watching Gallus play his game.

“Thank you.” Tempest said proudly.

“You can get stuff your way, I’ll get it mine.” Pharynx replied to Tempest's earlier comment, slipping the bracelet back onto Tempest’s hoof when she wasn’t looking.

“Die suckers! Ha ha! Pharynx, come check this out!” Gallus cried, and Pharynx flew over to grab the virtual reality set and try the game.

“Guys, do I have to remind you what we’re here for?” Tempest asked, taking off the bracelet yet again and tossing it angrily onto the bed.

“Rising Dawn, blah blah blah, magic crown, blah blah blah.” Gallus replied, making Pharynx and Luna laugh.

“This is our one chance to prove ourselves to our parents!” Tempest corrected, voice rising. They all turned to face her, expressions somber. “To prove we are evil, vicious, ruthless, and cruel. Yeah?”

“Yeah.” the others agreed

“Thanks Temp. I needed that reminder.” Pharynx sighed

“Lu, the crystal.” Tempest said instead of replying, though her cheeks were slightly pink.

“Right…” Luna pulled it out from under her wing. She levitated it in front of her as they crowded around the table to see. “Crystal, where is the golden crown of Rising Dawn?”

They saw a zoomed in image of a gold crown with a purple gem in the center.

“Crystal, not so close.” the crystal then showed all of Equus. “Closer...closer…closer…”

“Can I go back to the game? I’m on level three.” Gallus said, turning to leave.

“There!” Tempest cried, stopping him. She leaned over and pointed a hoof at it. “It’s at... the Museum of Equus History. Do we know where it is?”

Gallus ran to Pharynx’s bed, snatched up the computer he'd stolen, opened it, and after typing rapidly, turned it to face them. “Two point three miles from here.”

They all ran for the door, Pharynx stopping to grab his jacket. “Come on Gallus!” he called

“Coming!” Gallus flew after them.

“Okay, check the crystal.” Tempest said when they arrived.

“Why? Is my makeup smudged?” Luna asked, lifting it up and checking her reflection.

“Yeah.” Tempest said, peeking in a window. “And hey, while you’re at it, why don’t you see if you can find the crown.” she said sarcastically

“Oh...right.” Luna blushed in embarrassment and spoke to the crystal. “Crystal, where in the museum is the crown?” the crystal showed her something and she nodded. “Got it, this way.” they trotted off.

The four made it to a side entrance with large glass doors. A guard was seated inside, with a computer monitoring system set in front of him.

“What’s with the security cameras? Why not have actual guards?” Tempest murmured. “Seems lazy to me.”

“You only say that because your dad raised you to be a general.” Gallus said

“I prefer commander.” Tempest told him, meanwhile Pharynx had pulled out a phone from his jacket and was typing on it.

“According to this website, the security videos were an idea by Dragon Lord Torch.”

“Dragon? Like Smolder?” Gallus asked

“Yeah.”

“I thought she and her family were the only dragons. Why aren’t the others on the Hidden Isle?”

“Something to do with her parents attempting to overthrow Torch, I think. Anyway, he suggested they install security in places like this museum in order to cut back on the number of guards needed to be employed. Apparently some aren’t great at their jobs.” Pharynx explained

“Okay, so...Pharynx, transform into Rising Dawn and say you need to inspect the crown or something.” Tempest said

“Er... Temp... I can’t.” Pharynx said

“Why not?” Luna asked

“Since the Hidden Isle’s barrier blocks powerful magic, mom never was able to teach Thorax, Ocellus, and me how to shapeshift. I don’t know how to.” Pharynx admitted

“It-It’s okay. We’ll just have to... find another way in.” Tempest said, looking around.

“Hey, Luna, is that your mother’s armor?” Gallus asked, glancing in the window to see the display the guard was next to.

“Yes... it’s so beautiful…” Luna said “But I wonder how it would look with a skirt, some decorative shapes on the shoes... ooh, and some kind of cover for the horn!”

“...Eh, looks kind of dorky to me.” Gallus said, and Luna glared at him.

“You know... I bet it’s still got some magic in it from when Nyxmare wore it.” Tempest said, then pulled the spellbook from her cloak.

“Temp... are you sure about this? Your horn…” Luna said

“I know. But since the Isle only was able to let us perform basic spells anyway, for all we know it being broken won’t affect anything.” Tempest said, lifting the book and flipping through it. “Aha!”

Tempest mumbled to herself for a minute, rewriting the spell in her head. Once satisfied with her adjustments, she crept forwards and charged up her horn.

“Magic armor, don’t hesitate. My victim’s hoof now punctuate.” she whispered

The guard suddenly looked up and stood, walking to the armor. He reached and touched his hoof to the tip of one of the pointed shoes.

“Pfft.” Gallus snorted

“Impressive.” Pharynx said

“I got chills.” Gallus added

Tempest growled low in her throat. “Stupid horn.” she looked back down at the book and then up at the armor. “Prick his hoof, prick it deep. Send this pony off to sleep.”

The pony pressed his hoof against the shoe’s pointed top again, then moaned and fell. He knocked the armor off its podium and both he and the armor clattered to the floor.

“Yes!” Tempest exclaimed

“Not so dorky now, huh?” Luna asked Gallus

“Good job Temp. Now, let’s go grab us a crow-” Pharynx grabbed the handles in his magic and tried to open the door. “It’s locked.”

“Great.” Gallus sighed

“Don’t worry, I got this. Stand back.” Pharynx backed up.

“Temp, can I try a spell?” Luna asked as Pharynx took off and flew backwards.

“Knock yourself out.” Tempest tossed the book to the alicorn as she watched Pharynx charge at the door headfirst from the air.

“Ooh, this one looks interesting.” Luna said, reading off the page as her horn lit up. “Break in easy, break in quick, open doors without a kick.”

The doors swung open due to her spell. Right as Pharynx charged in. There was a loud crash as he collided with the podium and fell to the ground. Gallus and Tempest began laughing, as Luna looked up from the spellbook.

“What?” she asked, then looked in. “Oh. Whoops.”

“Coming?” Tempest asked, trotting through the open doors.

“You good?” Gallus asked, extending a claw to Pharynx.

“I’m fine.” Pharynx said, standing up and shaking himself.

“Sorry, just trying to help.”

“Gallus, quiet!” Luna whispered, and the boys hastened to follow her and Tempest. “We’re so close... Hall of Villains, this has got to be it!”

They raced up the stairs and found themselves staring at... their parents.

“Mommy?” Luna asked, looking up at the tall figure of Nyxmare Moon, standing in a replica of her armor, growling at an imaginary enemy.

“Killer…” Pharynx breathed as he gazed at a sculpture of Queen Chrysalis snarling and lunging forward, fangs bared, an army of smaller changelings behind her.

“I will never forget grandparent’s day again…” Gallus gasped as he looked at the vicious grin on Gruff’s face, he was running, wings open as if about to jump into flight, clutching a cat by its tail in one talon, his other holding gold necklaces and a crown on his head.

“Well, the crown’s not here. Let’s check downstairs.” Pharynx said

Tempest stood, frozen, as her friends left the room. She was transfixed by the lifelike statue of her father. He was standing, glaring at her, a replica of the Staff of Sacanas held in his grip. She took a step forward, opened her mouth, and began to sing.

“Look at you, then look at me
I don’t know who to be
Father,
Is it wrong? Is it right?
Tell me to be a thief in the night
Father,
Tell me what to do...”

Tempest sang softly, then Luna poked her head back in.

“Temp, come on.” she said, before walking away again.

Tempest sighed and turned to leave, when a maniacal laughter filled the room. She whipped back around to see the sculpture had become real. Cosmos stepped down the platform he was standing on, laughing.

“Oh, don’t be so serious, hurricane.” he said, then began singing to her.

“I was once like you, my dear, slightly insecure
Argued with my father too, thought it was mature
But I put my brain aside, started to use my brawn
If you want to hear his words, just listen to the song~”

He slammed the staff down, startling her.

“Don’t you wanna be evil like me?
Don’t you wanna be mean?
Don’t you wanna make mischief a daily routine?
Some spend their lives attending to the poor
But when you’re evil, doing less is doing more!
You should be cruel, crazy, and mad!
Like me, you should be very good at being a blast!”

Cosmos moved closer to Tempest, who took a step back.

“I have spent my life doing the worst I can!
Crept my way to victory, built my master plan!
Now the time has come for you, my girl, to take your place
For you to stand by my side as an absolute disgrace!

Don’t you wanna be a twister, like me, don’t you wanna be cruel?
Don’t you wanna be nasty, blizzardous, and cool?
Well when you grab that crown it’s when your reign begins
Who wants a cruel commander without a barrel of sin?
Don’t you wanna be heartless and hardened as a storm?
Don’t you wanna be deliciously evil to the bone?”

He stalked around Tempest, whose eyes narrowed as she grinned. She liked what he was laying down.

“This isn’t for us to question, it was preordained
You and I will rule together, my powers soon regained!
Master of downpours, stormy and strong!
Daughter, won’t you hear me, help me, join me
Won’t you sing along?!”

Tempest smirked and sang along.

“We’re gonna be hurricanes and never think twice!”

Cosmos held out his staff and she took it in her magic, pulling it closer to her.

“And we’re gonna be a whirlwind!” Tempest sang alone as her father tugged the staff back

“Yes, a whirlwind, that’s nice.
In just an hour your future’s safe and sure!
This father-daughter act is going on tour!
If you wanna be evil, awful, and free
Then thank Nyxmare’s stars you were born the filly you are,
The daughter of a monsoonus King! Like me!!”

He finished, then slammed down his staff once more. Tempest stared, blinking, as her father became a statue once more.

“Temp!” Luna ran back into the room. “What are you doing?”

“Uh…” before Tempest could explain, Luna interrupted.

“Nevermind, we found the crown.” Luna said

“Why didn’t you say so?” Tempest ran after her, and they met up with the boys.

“Here it is.” Luna said as they arrived.

The crown was suspended in midair, with a transparent field around it. Pharynx flew forwards, transfixed.

“Pharynx, no!” Tempest yelled

Pharynx grazed the field and a siren started. He fell backwards into Tempest.

“A forcefield and a siren?” Gallus asked

“That’s a bit excessive…” Pharynx groaned, as Tempest used her magic to set him upright.

“We’ve got to go!” Tempest whispered

“Hurry!” Luna cried

They reached the entrance with the armor, where the guard was still sleeping. Gallus skidded to a halt and dodged behind the computers.

“Gallus, come on!” Tempest urged

“One sec.” he whispered, then with a few quick taps, stopped the alarm and grabbed the ringing phone. “Hello? Oh, one second... one second... ah, it was a false alarm. Yeah, just a malfunction in the... uh... the 714 chip in the breadboard circuit. Yeah. Okay, say hi to the missus for me.”

Gallus put the phone down, typed in something else, then ran to them.

“Okay, I blacked out the footage for the past hour. We won’t be seen.”

“...Wow…” Luna said

“You’re welcome.” Gallus said as they ran. “But great job Pharynx, now we have to go to school tomorrow!”

Author's Note

And so, their first heist attempt was...unsuccessful. Now they must prepare for a school day. Wonder how that's gonna go...

~Melody Song

First Day

“Welcome kids!” Rising Dawn said as they entered the open area classroom. Sandbar and Yona were beside her. “Oh, Tempest, would you be so kind as to remove your hood? I need to know you’re paying attention.”

“O-oh... no, I’ll be listening…” Tempest said

“Please Miss Shadow.” Rising Dawn said

“Unless you’re keeping secrets…” Yona said slyly

Tempest sighed. “I don’t want to.”

“Tempest, please.” Sandbar said

Tempest muttered something under her breath and then, a crackling, electric blue aura surrounded her hood.

“She’s a unicorn?” Yona whispered.

The hood was pulled down to reveal a scar on her eye, a mohawk styled magenta mane, and a broken, jagged horn.

“Y-your…” Yona stammered

“Yeah, her horn’s broken, so what?!” Pharynx snarled, baring his fangs.

“It... may be a struggle to teach her…” Yona said, smirking slightly

“Of course it won’t be.” Rising Dawn objected. “Let’s get to work. Sandbar, Yona, it’s about time for class, off you go.”

The two headed out, Yona giving a smug look to the four while Sandbar looked sympathetic.

Remedial Goodness class started, and Rising Dawn began asking them questions.

“You find a crying baby. Do you A: curse it. B: lock it in a tower. C: give it a bottle, or D: carve out it’s heart?” Rising Dawn asked, and Luna raised her hoof. “Luna?”

“...What was the second option?” Luna asked

“Okay... anyone else?” she looked at Tempest, who was sketching a crown. “Tempest?” she got the filly’s attention.

“C: give it a bottle.” Tempest replied, looking up.

“Correct again!” Rising Dawn said eagerly. “Good job Tempest.”

“Wow, you’re on fire Temp.” Gallus said, looking over at her.

“It’s easy.” Tempest rolled her eyes. “Just pick the one that doesn’t sound like any fun.”

“Oh.” Gallus said

“That makes so much sense.” Luna said

Suddenly a white coated, teenage alicorn filly came trotting into the room. She had a short pink mane and pink-purple eyes. The filly was holding papers in a golden aura. She rustled her wings nervously as she walked past them.

“Oh, hello sweetie!” Rising Dawn greeted

“Y-you need to sign off on early dismissal for the coronation.” the filly said, and as Rising Dawn lifted the papers she wrapped a wing over the filly.

“Now, everyone, this is my daughter Celestia.”

“Mom, no!” Celestia ducked her head bashfully and made her way out. “I-I’m going to go… as you were.” she said, and as she passed them, Tempest noted that she was a blank flank.

“She doesn’t have a cutie mark?” Tempest asked as the filly left.

“Oh, I’m afraid not. She’s been trying for years, one day I know she’s going to get one.” Rising Dawn said

“Like someone else we know.” Pharynx murmured under his breath as he gazed down at his paper, where he’d drawn a sketch of Tempest without her cloak on.

“Ahem. Let’s continue.” Rising Dawn levitated her pointer to gesture to the next question on the board “You find the Alicorn Amulet. Do you, A: put it around the neck of your enemy. B: use it to cast eternal night-”

“Hey, ‘s you.” Gallus whispered, leaning over to Luna. She smiled, giggling and nodding.

“Or C: turn it over to the proper authorities?” Rising Dawn finished.

Gallus raised his claw, but Pharynx jabbed him in the side and stood taller, lifting his hole-covered hoof. Rising Dawn watched the two climb over each other before choosing one.

“Pharynx.”

“C. You turn it over to the proper authorities.” Pharynx replied, and Rising Dawn nodded.

“I was gonna say that.” Gallus muttered

“But I said it first, c’mere!” Pharynx tackled Gallus onto the table and they began tussling. Luna and Tempest just watched calmly.

“Ow!”

“Who said it first, huh? Who said it?”

“Ow! Stop, ah! I’m not your brother, I can’t take it, ah!” Gallus cried

“Boys. Boys!” Rising Dawn got their attention. “I’m going to encourage you to take this energy to the Blitzball field.”

“Oh... no, no that’s okay. Whatever that is, we’ll pass.” Gallus said from where Pharynx was pinning him.

The coach, a pegasus named Jet Stream, flipped through a clipboard held in his wing. Pharynx stood between a unicorn and Sandbar, both were wearing uniforms. Pharynx groaned as he picked at the blue jersey with red stripes that he wore, then slid on the blue helmet, which had a red visor and a gap for his horn.

“Alright, Pharynx, Sandbar, you’re offense. Blueblood, defense. Tambourine, you’re shooter.”

“Yes coach!” the unicorn; apparently named Tambourine; headed off, followed by the others.

“Right, Pharynx, was it? All you gotta do is get the ball to the other side, got it?” Jet Stream said, and Pharynx nodded, smirking slightly. He then raised his voice as they headed out. “And you, griff-boy! Get out of the kill zone and put your helmet on!”

“Kill zone?” Gallus echoed, pulling his helmet onto his head.

Coach Jet Stream blew his whistle and they started.

“Get the ball to the other side, huh? Just like stealing. I’ve got this.” Pharynx grinned, lavender eyes narrowing in concentration.

Pharynx grabbed the ball in his magic and ran, tossed it, then shouldered into another player, knocking him away. This game was fun! The cheerleaders nearby, which included Yona, were stomping their hooves and cheering him on. He ran and shouldered another player away, then spun on his back hooves and thrust his hind legs against a third player, which might have been Sandbar, sending him flying.

Pharynx grinned, let out a war cry like his mother had taught him, and charged. He knocked another to the ground, then a large object shot past him. Tambourine was firing weighted sacks across the field. Pharynx smirked and easily dodged them all, flipping into the air, hovering just above the ground. He twirled and spun, then grabbed the blitzball, which had been thrown nearby. Pharynx then charged at Gallus, who was hesitating near the goal. He grinned harder, rushing at the frightened griffon.

“Ph-Phar, it’s me, it’s Gallus!” Gallus yelled, but Pharynx ignored him. “Wait! Stop Phar, stop!”

Pharynx ran at him, the ball held up in his magic. Gallus yelped.

“No no no no no!” Gallus screamed.

Gallus dropped down into a small ball and extended his wing to cover his side as protection. Pharynx ran up his wing and hurled the ball, sending it flying through the goalposts. He then ran at the goalposts, sending the goalie flying to the side. Pharynx pulled off his helmet and slammed it to the ground, whooping in victory as the cheerleaders-except Yona this time-cheered for him. He spun around in excitement, this was even more fun than par-kour back on the Isle. A whistle punctuated his eagerness, bringing his dance to a halt.

“You!” Coach Jet Stream yelled “Get over here!”

Pharynx lifted up his helmet in his magic and it trailed behind him as he walked to the stallion.

“What do you call that?” Coach Jet Stream asked, and Pharynx hesitated. “Because I call it raw talent!” He clapped Pharynx on the shoulder with his wing. “You’re on the team. Come see me later, I’ll show you something you haven’t seen before-it’s called a rulebook.”

Pharynx grinned. That was amazing, and he was on the team! This was definitely something to live in Equus for. Gallus and Sandbar walked up with the rest of the team, and Coach Jet Stream looked at Gallus.

“You ever thought about band?” Coach Jet Stream asked him.

Gallus looked away, ashamed at his poor performance. Pharynx began laughing, looking at his friend with a teasing glint in his pupil-less eyes. Sandbar saw the disappointment in the young griffon’s expression and placed a hoof on his shoulder.

“I’ll work with him, coach.” Sandbar said, and Gallus glanced at the colt, who smiled back.

“Alright.” Coach Jet Stream said, smiling now. “Let’s run that again!” he announced to the team as a whole.

“Don’t worry, we’ll get you ready to win the game.” Sandbar said, and Gallus blushed slightly.

“You really think I can be that good?”

“Of course Gallus.” Sandbar replied “You’re amazing. I-I mean, you can be amazing. A-at the game.” he blushed as well, reaching to brush his mane out of his eyes.

As the griffon and colt walked back out onto the field, oblivious to the others, Pharynx noticed the look a unicorn he’d tackled was giving him. Clearly Pharynx had taken the spot of best player from the colt. Pharynx smirked and shouldered up against him. The unicorn glared at him, but once the changeling colt had left, he winced and rubbed his shoulder.

Author's Note

Forgot to say this earlier so I think I'll say it now: Those of you who have seen Descendants, you most likely know which character that I put Yona in place of and what happens to her. I would like to say that I have no problem with Yonabar. I respect all ships, even if I don't agree with them. Yes, I am aware of what happens with Audrey (the character Yona replaced) and I do have every intention of making the story as close to the original as possible.

So yes, most of what happens to Audrey will happen to Yona. But I honestly have no grudge against Yonabar in favor of the ship that will end up sailing here. I put Yona in place of Audrey because, yes, I was aware that Yonabar is a popular ship, especially after She's All Yak. However, I did this due to the parallels between Yonabar and Ben and Audrey from Descendants. I have no problem with Yonabar, this is merely for plot convenience in the story.

Sorry if that was a lot to read, had to make that clear in preparation of what's to come with this story. But I hope you enjoyed this chapter, next one will be out soon.

~Melody Song

A Sunny Plan

Sandbar was walking down the hall with Yona and Prince Blueblood. They stopped at their lockers and Blueblood glared over at where Tempest, Gallus, and Luna were standing. Tempest had her hood up again and was talking with them in a low voice.

“Those kids are trouble.” Blueblood murmured

“Oh, I’m gonna be late for Chemistry. Bye guys.” Luna said before she headed off.

“Bye.” Gallus said, waving his wing at the filly.

“Bye Lu.” Tempest said, before turning back to her locker.

“Come on Blue, give them a chance.” Sandbar said

“No offense Sandy-bear, but you’re too trusting.” Yona said. “Look, I know your mom fell in love with an ugly sea monster who turned out to be a king. But with my dad, the nasty griffon was just the nasty griffon. That boy's grandfather.” she pointed a hoof at Gallus.

“Well I think you’re wrong about them. I’ll see you later.” Sandbar turned and trotted to Gallus and Tempest, waving at them. “Hey guys!”

“Hey.” Gallus said, while Tempest gave a nod in his direction.

“So... how was your first day?”

“Super.” Tempest grunted, shutting her locker with a hoof. Sandbar noticed that Tempest had painted a lightning bolt design with the words Long Live The King under it.

“You know Tempest, you should think about taking those skills to art class.” Sandbar said “How does that sound?”

“Like you’re taking all the fun out of it.” Tempest replied, as Celestia walked by. She whimpered as she passed Tempest and Gallus. “Uh...I gotta go.” she turned and followed the alicorn.

“...Okay…” Sandbar and Gallus stood awkwardly for a minute, before Sandbar waved and headed off.

Tempest followed Celestia into the bathroom, where she cornered her. Celestia whipped around and stared at her, clearly afraid.

“Hey... it’s Celestia, right?” Tempest asked, and continued when she nodded. “That’s a nice name... very sunshiny.”

“Oh... thanks…” Celestia made to leave.

“Wait!” Tempest called, and she froze, looking back at Tempest. “Sorry. I was just hoping to... make a friend. But you probably have all the friends you need, huh?”

“Hardly.” Celestia said, wings ruffling.

“Really? Even with your mom being... well, the former Queen of Equestria? And Headmare? I mean, not to mention your... uh... personality…” Tempest winced “Note to self, get more information on the pony before you try influencing them. I don’t know how Phar does it.” she thought.

“Oh, I don’t know... I’d rather be pretty…” Celestia said. “You’ve got a great mane, I saw it earlier… I wish my mane looked like that... or like mom’s...”

“You know what, I think I have something for that…” Tempest’s horn glowed under the hood and she pulled out the spellbook. “Here it is. Let’s see… saw it earlier...”

Tempest flipped through the book, found the spell, then pulled back her hood slightly, igniting her horn.

“Cast this spell, victim unaware. Replacing the old, with magical hair.” Tempest muttered

Celestia’s head jerked backwards and when she straightened up, she looked into the bathroom mirror and gasped. Her mane and tail were now long and flowing, striped in blue, turquoise, light purple, and pink.

“Wow, you don’t even notice your... other features anymore.” Tempest said

“Woah…” Celestia turned “Any chance you could…” she opened a wing to show her blank flank.

“Oh... sorry. With... my horn…” Tempest reached to rub her forehead, near the jagged horn. “I can’t do really big spells. Not like your mom with that magical crown. I mean, one glint of the light off that thing and you could probably have whatever mark you want.”

“She doesn’t wear the crown anymore. She believes the real magic is in books. And not spellbooks...” Celestia glanced pointedly at the one still held aloft in Tempest’s magic. “Books with history and stuff.”

“You know... she used the magic of the crown to help Princess Platinum maintain control of the unicorn tribe once her father died. And Platinum was just a royal in need of help, not her daughter. Doesn’t she love you?”

“Well, yeah... but it’s... tough love. ‘Shine in your own way, inside and out. You don’t need others to tell you you’re beautiful.’ That sort of thing.” Celestia replied, frowning.

“That’s it!” Tempest said, and Celestia gave her a confused look. “That’s what you need to do. Just look like your heart is about to break, and go… ‘oh mother, I just don’t understand why you can’t make me beautiful too.’ See?”

“You really think it’ll work?”

“Well, that’s what Platinum did, practically, and your mom magicked the daylights out of her.” Tempest laughed softly. “And hey, if your mom does decide to break out the old crown... invite me. I’d love to see it.”

“If I can get her to do it, you’re there.” Celestia told her, then reached and hugged her before rushing out of the bathroom.

“Bye!” Tempest called after her. Once Celestia was gone, Tempest let the smile drop. “Ugh. As Phar would say, all that sweetness gave me a cavity.” she then promptly left the bathroom.

Luna sat beside Snowdrop in Chemistry class, watching a handsome white unicorn colt gaze into the distance with a lost look on his face. He had a blonde mane, a cutie mark of a compass, and blue eyes. Snowdrop looked between them and rolled her eyes.

“Any chance he’s in line for a throne? Any throne?” Luna asked, twirling a bit of her midnight blue mane with her hooftip.

“Prince Blueblood.” Snowdrop supplied “He’s the grandson of Princess Platinum, heir to her throne, yes. Blue inherited the charm but... not a lot of there there. You know?”

“Seems like there’s something there to me…” Luna sighed, and the teacher cleared his throat.

“Luna. Perhaps this is a review for you. So tell me, what’s the average atomic weight of silver?”

“Atomic weight?” Luna asked, sitting up. “Well, um... not very much, it’s an atom, right?” she smiled nervously.

The teacher beckoned her to the board. Luna stood nervously, then reached into her bag and subtly pulled out her moon crystal. She tucked it under her wing as she walked over. She lifted the chalk in her magic and opened her wings, so that she could view the crystal.

“Let’s see... how would you find the average atomic weight of silver?” Luna asked, and the crystal provided. “That would be... 106.905 times .5200… plus 108.905 times .4800, which, Mr Matter, would give us… 107.9 amu.” Luna circled the answer.

“Amu?” Snowdrop whispered, looking down at her notes.

“Ah... I forgot, always a mistake to underestimate…” Mr Matter trailed off.

“A villain?” Luna supplied, tossing the chalk back to him while folding her wings. “Don’t make it again.” she then walked back to her chair.

As Luna passed by Blueblood’s seat, he slipped a scrap of paper to her. Luna accepted it and as she sat down, read it.

Meet me under the bleachers at the Blitzball field after school? It read. Luna looked up, smiling, and gave the watching Blueblood a deft nod. He smiled back and they gazed into each other’s eyes, while Snowdrop sighed and shook her head, going back to her notes.

Author's Note

Sorry I'm posting this so late in the day. But I hope you like it!

~Melody Song

A New Plan

Tempest lay on her bed, drawing the crown again, while Luna was at a sewing machine, designing something. Celestia was pacing around in the space between the two villain kids. Her mane flowed behind her elegantly, but she was too wrapped up in her pacing to admire it.

“Mother says ‘if a boy can’t see the beauty within you then he’s not worth it’. What world does she live in?” Celestia moaned, falling onto Luna’s bed.

“Equus?” Tempest suggested uninterestedly.

Tempest had now moved from drawing the crown to looking at a light sketch Luna had made of Pharynx, with markings of things like his height, shoulder width, and what colors would match up best against his carapace.

“Temp, do you like?” Luna held up the midnight purple dress she was sewing.

“Um, yeah. It really brings out your mane.” Tempest said, glancing up briefly.

“I’ll never get a boyfriend.” Celestia moaned.

“Boyfriends are overrated.” Tempest said, tracing a hoof along the drawing.

“And how would you know Temp? You’ve never had one.” Luna said

“Neither have you, Lu.” Tempest replied, quickly shoving the sketch of Pharynx under the spellbook so Luna wouldn’t call her a hypocrite. “I don’t need one anyway. They’re just a waste of time.”

“...Oh no. I forgot to do Blueblood’s homework!” Luna leapt up and levitated the saddlebags to her, opening them and pulling out the homework.

“Case in point.” Tempest said, laughing slightly.

The door suddenly opened, and in stepped a blue dragoness. She had blue scales and wings, red eyes, and a tail with a dark blue tuft on the end. The dragoness was holding a bag.

“Hey, name’s Ember.” the dragoness, Ember, said. “Daughter of Torch, the Dragon Lord.” when there was no response, she continued. “I love what you did with Celestia’s mane and, well, I know you hate us, but I was wondering... any chance you could work something out for me?”

“Why should I?” Tempest asked

“I’ll give you fifty gems.” Ember said, holding up the bag.

“Good answer.” Luna said, trotting over and lifting the bag from her grip. “I need more materials anyway. Let’s see... we could try some eyeliner, maybe brush up the tail tuft and some highlights on your wing scales…”

“Um, no thanks.” Ember pushed her away slightly. “I want to look cool, like Tempest.”

“Really? The split ends in her mane too?” Luna asked, and Tempest glared at her. Luna shook the bag, and Tempest sighed.

“Fine…” Tempest lifted the spellbook, doing some rewrites on the spot. “Cast this spell, speed up time. Replace the old with cool spines.”

Magic surrounded Ember’s body and suddenly, dark blue spines grew from her head, slicked back and pointy. White, curved ram horns came around her face, and diamond shapes appeared on her legs, tail, and forehead. Ember moved to the mirror and stared in shock. Luna came up behind her.

“I know, it looks like you have stone scales. You know what, I can fix this. Let’s get you some eyeliner, and-”

“No, no, no, no.” Ember stopped her. “I love it!”

“You do?” Luna asked

"You realize I just sped up what would have occurred naturally from your Molt, right?"

“I don't care, it's amazing! Just…” Ember reached back and tore a piece from her tail tuft, creating a notch in it. “Now I’m cool.”

“Like ice.” Tempest smirked, as Celestia walked up, then opened her wing, turned, and ripped two outer feathers out with her teeth. She gasped, spitting them onto the floor.

“What did I just do? Mom’s gonna kill me!”

The others laughed softly, then Ember looked at Luna and Tempest. “How do you know what stone scales and the Molt are, anyway?”

“We know a dragon back on the Isle, Smolder. She’s there because her father tried to overthrow the Dragon Lord. Her brother’s a bit obnoxious but she and another friend of ours used to do my mane.” Luna said, running a hoof through her flowing midnight blue mane, lost in thought.

“Oh.” Ember looked ashamed, like she hadn’t considered the prospect of dragons on the Isle.

Pharynx sat beside Coach Jet Stream on the bleachers, looking through the rulebook he had held in his magic.

“I could really use a tough guy like you. The team’s a bunch of princes, if you know what I mean.” Jet Stream remarked

“Oh, sure. It’s all ‘oh pardon me ol’ chap’ and ‘oh, terribly sorry, did I bump into you’?” Pharynx mocked.

The coach smiled and shook his head, laughing slightly.

“Back on the Isle, it’s ‘prepare to die, sucker’!” Pharynx stood up, grinning wickedly. “As my mother says, the only way to win, is to make sure everyone else loses!” he announced, throwing a punch.

“Pharynx, Pharynx, easy!” Coach Jet pulled him back down with a wing. “Here, let me explain. A team... it’s, well, it’s like a family.”

“You do not want to be at my house at dinnertime.” Pharynx said, shaking his head. It was a struggle just to get love for himself, not to mention his siblings, with their mother eating every bit she could find.

“Alright... um... you know how a body has different parts? The elbows, the legs, the ears. But they all need each other. That’s what a team is. Different parts working together to win. Make sense?” he asked, and Pharynx thought for a minute.

“...Can I be the fangs?” he asked, baring his own. Coach Jet smiled, passed him a jersey, and clapped him on the shoulder.

Pharynx strutted into the girl’s dorm room. Gallus was seated on the ground, Monarch curled up by his side. The griffon was occasionally reaching to stroke him. Tempest was lying on her bed flipping madly through the spellbook while Luna worked on her dress.

“Eh?” Pharynx asked, turning in a circle to show off his new jersey.

“Hey, nice.” Gallus said, and Pharynx smiled

“So, cats ain’t that bad, huh?” Pharynx asked

“He’s cute.” Gallus shrugged, stroking the cat behind the ears.

“What about you Temp? Your plan with Celestia work?” Pharynx asked, walking to her.

“Do you think I’d be going through every spell in this book if it did?” Tempest snapped, and Pharynx sat down beside her.

“Sounds like someone’s in a bad mood.” Pharynx remarked

“My dad’s counting on me! I can’t let him down!” Tempest cried. Pharynx settled down by her.

“Don’t worry, we can do this.” he looked around at them all. “If we stick together.”

“And we’re not going back until we do.” Tempest looked up, and they all met her gaze. “Cause we’re rotten-”

“At the core.” they all said, then Luna spoke.

“Oh, I found out that Rising Dawn inducts Sandbar with her crown for the coronation ceremony and we all get to go. I have nothing to wear, typical.” Luna said, looking up to find them all staring at her. “What?”

Tempest was about to open her mouth and berate Luna for not mentioning it earlier, but there was a sudden knock at the door.

“Hold that ridiculously delayed thought.” Tempest said, sliding off the bed and trotting to the door. She opened it to see Sandbar. “Oh, hey.”

“Hey Tempest. I was actually looking for Gallus. Since he wasn’t in his room I thought he might be here…” Sandbar glanced in, and Gallus waved a wing at him. “Hey Gallus, you got back okay?”

“Yeah.” Gallus said, smiling at him.

“So... do you have any questions or anything?” Sandbar asked

“Oh, actually we did have one.” Tempest said

“Oh?”

“Yeah, is it true we all get to go to your coronation?”

“Of course, the whole school is invited.” Sandbar smiled

“Wow, beyond exciting.” Tempest glanced around at the others, who all smiled as well. “Is there, uh, any chance we could stand up in the front row with Rising Dawn, you know, to soak up all that... goodness?”

Sandbar sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. “I wish you could, really. But up front it’s just gonna be me, my folks, and my girlfriend.”

“Your girlfriend?” Tempest asked, and he nodded bashfully.

“Yeah. Sorry to disappoint you…”

“Oh, it’s no problem, well, bye!” Tempest then shut the door in his face.

“What was that for?” Gallus asked

“Why, miss his face?” Pharynx asked, making Gallus blush and shake his head frantically.

“Focus.” Tempest said, smirking as she lifted up her spellbook, flipped a few pages, then held it up to show them. “I think it’s time Sandy got a new girlfriend.”

“Wait, you want to spell him?” Pharynx sat up “But…”

“It won’t be that bad…” Tempest looked down at the book. “According to the book, the spell causes the victim to be attracted to the first creature they see, based on their sexual preferences. So that’s either me or Luna.”

“I vote Luna!” Pharynx said, and they looked at him. Pharynx blushed. “I mean, because she’s the one who... uh... is more eager to date a prince…”

“Sure…” Gallus snickered, and Pharynx whacked him upside the head.

“Will you two focus?” Tempest asked “Come on, it’s getting late. Let’s go see if that door-unlocking spell Lu found works on the door to the kitchen.”

Baking Villain-Style

The four kids snuck down to the kitchen, which was apparently open until midnight anyway. According to a chef that was leaving the kitchen, it was for students to use for class assignments. Or just if they were hungry. He told them to make sure to leave before midnight, because the doors were charmed with a timer to magically lock when the clock struck twelve AM. Tempest and Luna got to work, Luna taking the lead as being the one who knew how to cook.

“Okay, almost done. It says the last thing we need... is a single tear, and I never cry.” Tempest said.

Gallus and Pharynx had been shunted to the side, having almost added the wrong ingredients twice. Gallus now saw a chance to redeem himself and grabbed an onion.

“So let’s chop this up, problem solved.” he said, tossing it up and down in one claw while he cradled Monarch in his other.

“No.” Tempest said sharply, looking back at the spellbook. “It says we need a tear of genuine sadness. And this love potion is the best one I could find, it apparently gives the best results, so we have to follow it exactly.”

“I thought a tear was a tear. Thorax and Ocellus shed them all the time.” Pharynx said

“While that’s true about your siblings, Pharynx, a tear is not just a tear. For example, while they both have antibodies and enzymes, an emotional tear has more protein-based hormones than a reflex tear.” Luna said

“Listen to you. Looks like all that studying paid off.” Tempest smiled at Luna, who blushed.

“Yeah, I knew that.” Pharynx said in response to Luna's explanation, blushing in embarrassment.

“You did not.” Gallus said, smirking

“Yeah, I did. But you didn’t-”

“Shh.” Tempest hissed, as they heard footsteps.

Luna used her magic to toss a towel over the spellbook, while Tempest began stirring the batter inconspicuously. Ember walked in, and smiled.

“There you are Tempest. I was looking for you!”

“You were?” Tempest asked, and Ember nodded.

“Yeah, all the girls want you to do their hair! Only on your first week here and you're already becoming popula-” Ember then noticed the batter. “Ooh, midnight snack? I came down for some gems, but whatever you’re making looks pretty good…”

“Oh, they’re just cookies-” Tempest gasped as Ember reached and swiped a finger into the batter, pulling it out and sticking it in her mouth to taste. “No no no!”

“Wait!” Gallus reached out to her.

“What? My claws are clean, I washed them before coming down here.” Ember said as she tasted the batter. “And it's not like I'm going to double dip or anything.”

“Do you... feel anything?” Luna asked hesitantly

“Yeah, like, maybe it might be missing something?” Tempest covered

Pharynx took off and flew to her, landing and giving her a nod. “Hey there.” he said, winking.

Ember glowered at him, then looked back at the girls. “Could use some chips.” she told them.

“Chips?” Pharynx asked

“And those are?” Tempest asked, going back to stirring the batter. Ember went to the cupboard.

“Well, dragons use gem chips but I’m talking about... aha!” Ember pulled out a bag and walked back to them. “Chocolate chips. Only the most important food group.”

“What’s chocolate?” Gallus asked, and Ember seemed surprised.

“Didn’t your moms ever-”

“My parents abandoned my sister and I on our grandpa’s doorstep.” Gallus said

“Didn’t they die?” Luna asked

“Gruff says it’s the same thing.”

“I don’t have a mom.” Tempest added

“Okay... parents then. Didn’t they ever make you chocolate chip cookies?” Ember asked.

They all looked at each other. What was she talking about? Ember didn't notice their confused silence and continued talking as she poured the chocolate chips into the bowl of batter.

“Like, when you’re feeling sad, and they’re fresh from the oven, with a big glass of milk. Then while you eat them your mo-er, parent makes you laugh and puts everything into perspective, and…" Ember looked up, seeing their expressions. "Why are you all looking at me like that?”

Tempest sighed and looked down. “It’s just...different on the Isle.” she murmured.

“Well... I know that, but... I just thought... even villains love their kids…”

Ember trailed off as she saw their downcast looks. She stared at them, taking in their expressions. Gallus cradled Monarch, looking down at the kitten and blinking rapidly as he pet him. Pharynx leaned against the countertop, gazing at the floor. Tempest stirred the batter quickly, glaring down at it as if it had offended her. Luna simply stood with her forehooves on the counter, staring blankly at it. Ember blinked and sniffled a bit.

“How awful…” Ember breathed, then looked away. “M-my mom used to make me cookies all the time, before she… she...”

Tempest saw a tear slipping down Ember’s cheek, and quickly leaned forwards and wiped it away with her hoof. She pretended to brush it aside but really flicked it into the bowl.

“Yeah, well, we’re so sorry to hear that, but we need to get these in the oven. Thanks for coming to check on us…” Tempest began pushing Ember to the door.

"Are you sure? I can stay and help-"

“No, really, have a good night!"

"Oh, okay then, I guess see you at the Blitzball game tomor-"

"Yeah, see you tomorrow, bye, evil dreams!” Tempest called, before beginning to shut the door behind Ember as the dragoness headed off.

“Goodnight.” Ember called, they could see her wiping her eyes before the door closed.

“Okay, boys, get the cookie sheets, Luna, turn on the oven.” Tempest ordered

“Yes ma’am.” Pharynx said, saluting her.

Tempest rolled her eyes and swatted at him. He dodged out of the way and joined Gallus in collecting the cookie sheets. Luna headed for the oven while Tempest returned to the batter, grinning as she realized they had all the ingredients. There was no way this plan would fail. It was perfect.

Author's Note

So it seems the Isle kids have some family problems. Well, that will be addressed in a later chapter. For now, I hope you enjoyed this one, next one comes next week!

~Melody Song

The Blitzball Game

The next day, after classes, the four villain creatures headed to the Blitzball field. Pharynx and Gallus would be playing with the team for their first game, against Amore’s school for non-royals, Everfree Academy. As they walked, they took a balcony hallway that passed over the gardens, where some fillies were gathered.

“Hey, it’s Tempest!” a filly called

“Hey Tempest, I love my mane!” one filly, whose mane Tempest had changed, cried out. Tempest smiled half-heartedly at them.

“Are you feeling kind of weird about this? It’s not so bad here, you know.” Pharynx said, and Tempest turned to face him.

“Are you insane?! Listen Phar, you’re evil, you’re mean, you’re awful, bad news! Don’t you like that?! Snap out of it!” Tempest then slapped his cheek. He flinched, rubbing the sore spot.

“Th-Thanks Temp... I needed that. Don’t know what came over me.” Pharynx said with a soft sigh.

“Yeah, don’t mention it.” Tempest blushed. Pharynx looked away.

“I... uh... gotta go... need to fuel up…” he nodded to the girls, and Tempest nodded.

“Go ahead. Luna, Gallus, and I’ll handle the spell.”

Pharynx smiled and then headed to the girls. As he left, Sandbar and Yona walked out to the balcony hallway. Yona looked over at the girls.

“Do you think they actually paid for those?” Yona asked.

The yak patted her own braids self-consciously as she looked at the gaggle of fillies. The cluster of girls were now gathered around where Pharynx was, and he looked over at them, flashing his fangs in a non-threatening way.

“Oh hello, name’s Pharynx.” Pharynx said, leaning over the balcony with a grin. “Ya’ll going to the Blitzball game today?”

“Yeah.” the fillies chorused, giggling and blushing.

“Keep a lookout for number eight, he’ll be scoring the winning goal.” Pharynx winked, and the girls giggled again.

“Okay.” they all said, before Pharynx trotted back to his friends.

“Tempest did it to Celestia’s mane too, and Rising Dawn’s not happy about it.” Yona added to her previous statement, and Sandbar looked at her.

“What’s the harm in it?”

“It’s Isle magic.” Yona hissed “Sure, it starts with the manes, then they’ll be asking for physical features to change-it already happened with Ember. Then what? Then everyone will look good and… where will I be?”

“Yona…” Sandbar tried to say, but she stopped him.

“Look, I will see you at the game, after my dress-fitting for the coronation, okay?”

“Alright.” Sandbar said

“Bye Sandy-bear.” Yona kissed him on the cheek and then headed off.

“Bye.” Sandbar called after her, as the four villain creatures walked up.

“Hey Sandy-bear.” Gallus called to get the colt's attention, and Pharynx jabbed him in the ribs.

“Oh, hey guys.” Sandbar said, turning and blushing at the nickname.

“We just made some cookies, we were wondering if you wanted some.” Tempest said

“I don’t like this…” Pharynx thought, feeling something thump inside his chest. Luna and Tempest were standing in the front, and for some reason he really didn’t like seeing Tempest so close to Sandbar.

“Oh, well, we’ve got the game in a few, and I don’t eat before a big game. But thanks so much, maybe next time.”

Tempest and Luna looked to each other, unsure of what to do. Gallus suddenly grabbed the bag and walked forwards, Monarch balanced on his back.

“No, it’s okay, we understand. ‘Be careful of treats offered by kids of villains’.” Gallus said

“No, that’s not true.” Sandbar said quickly. The girls and Pharynx looked at each other, grinning.

“No, I’m sure every foal in Equus knows that.” Gallus sighed

“No, that’s not it, I really do trust you…”

“Oh, don’t worry, we get it. You’re cautious, it’s smart. Back on the Isle that would keep you alive. Oh well, more for us then.” Gallus opened the bag and pulled out the cookie, making as if he was about to take a bite.

“No, no.” Sandbar snatched it from Gallus and bit the cookie in half. “See, totally trust you.”

“Great job Gallus.” Tempest whispered as she and Luna stepped forwards. “So, how are they?”

“Oh, they’re great!” Sandbar said, chewing “They’re... chewy, and, and you know they... the chocolate... the chocolate chips are… sorry... uh, they’re... they’re warm, and soft…”

Sandbar was moving past the girls, who were confused. Gallus gave a soft yelp as Sandbar moved closer to him.

“...They’re sweet... Gallus, have you always had those little flecks of gold in your eyes?” he asked

“U-uh... m-my eyes?” Gallus asked softly

“Okay, plan B.” Tempest whispered

“We had a plan B?” Luna whispered back, and Pharynx shrugged in response.

“Improvise.” Tempest explained. Pharynx nodded, stepping forward and wrapping a hoof around Sandbar’s shoulders.

How you feeling Sandbar?” Pharynx asked

“I feel... like... like singing your name…” Sandbar said to Gallus, and took a breath.

“Nope!” Pharynx covered his mouth. “I cannot take any dumb pony songs.”

“Come on, let’s head to the game.” Gallus said

“Right... the game.” Sandbar said dazedly, and they headed off.

“This is a hoof-biter folks.” the announcer said “There’s 47 seconds left on the clock, Equus Prep’s Fighting Creatures, two. Everfree Academy’s Timberwolves, two. What a game between these fierce rivals.”

“Get ‘em Blueblood.” Pharynx said as Blueblood raced onto the field.

“Thanks Pharynx!”

“The teams are getting into their huddles and taking up positions along the kill zone. The shooters have been laying down an extraordinary hail of fire.” the announcer continued

Coach Jet walked along the bench, then pointed with a wing to Pharynx. “You’re up.”

“And now a substitution…”

Pharynx stood, then noticed the look on Gallus' face. He reached and pulled him up. “Coach, can we put Gallus in?”

“Oh, no, not so sure about that…” Coach Jet said

“Coach, he’s been practicing.”

“Pharynx…”

“And you said a team’s made of different parts.” Pharynx continued

“Ph-Pharynx I’m not that good…” Gallus said

“Well Gallus here, he’s kind of like my brain.” Pharynx said

Coach Jet sighed, then raised his voice, gesturing to a player on their team. “Come here!” as the pony began running to them, he turned and smiled at Gallus. “You heard him, get out there!”

“Don’t worry Gallus, I’ve got your back.” Pharynx said as they headed out.

“Wh-what about my front?” Gallus asked

“Looks like Equus is bringing the changeling Pharynx in from the Hidden Isle, as well as the griffon, Gallus, who looks like he can barely wear that helmet.” the announcer said

“Hey, you’re gonna do great.” Sandbar smiled at Gallus, who gave him a shy smile back.

“Break!” they all called, and the game continued.

“They’ve broken from their huddles, this is gonna be a big moment here.”

Pharynx took off running, catching the Blitzball as it was passed to him. He then hurled it at Sandbar, who caught it and kept running. Gallus crouched down and tripped up one of the players on the opposing team. He whooped and raised a claw, then continued running. The ball was tossed back to Pharynx.

“And there’s the tipoff, here we go. Long pass to Pharynx, who dashes off to Prince Sandbar. A nice block by Gallus there, and the ball goes back to Pharynx.” the announcer called

Pharynx ran through the kill zone, dodging the weighted sacks by leaping and spinning in the air. He kept the ball in his magic as he did.

“Here comes Pharynx with a fantastic dodging maneuver at mid-field.”

“I’m open!” Sandbar yelled, and Pharynx tossed the ball his way.

“Pharynx makes a smooth pass to Prince Sandbar through the kill zone.”

“Pharynx!” Sandbar yelled

“A big block by Prince Blueblood! Prince Sandbar moves over wide, gives the ball back to Pharynx, he’s in the clear!”

Pharynx tossed the ball, but the Timberwolves’ Pegasus goalie leapt into the air and kicked it out of the way. It was then sent hurtling back to the players.

“Oh, and it’s saved by Falcon, the Timberwolves’ goalie!”

“Come on! Alright, let’s do this!” Sandbar yelled, tugging Gallus along with him, blushing.

“Come on guys, hustle, hustle!” Coach Jet called

“23 seconds left, you could cut the tension with a sword!”

Pharynx ran, caught the ball, and jumped into the air, flying low over the field. He swerved suddenly, causing two members of the opposing team that had been heading for him to knock into each other.

“And a great move by Pharynx! Big block from Prince Blueblood again, Pharynx passes to Prince Sandbar, then Gallus with a block-oh, he’s down!”

Pharynx raced through the kill zone and with one hoof yanked Gallus onto his paws again.

“Pharynx through the kill zone, picks up Gallus, he’s being hammered by those shooters. Still going, Pharynx dodges at mid-field, he’s in the clear as the ball goes back to him!”

“Whoo! Go Pharynx!” Tempest and Luna were screaming for their friends, along with the rest of the school. Monarch was between them, being watched by the two at Gallus’ request.

“Hey Pharynx!” Gallus yelled as he ran ahead, and Pharynx looked at him. Gallus dropped onto his side and opened his wing. “Go up! Go up!”

“Sandbar!” Pharynx yelled, getting the colt’s attention.

Pharynx raced up Gallus’ wing, missing the grunt of pain from the griffon. He tossed the ball to Sandbar, who grabbed it out of the air and tossed it through the goal.

“Pharynx passes to Prince Sandbar, he scores! Prince Sandbar has won it! And what an unselfish move by Pharynx! What a team, incredible!”

Gallus sat up, wincing and moving his wing. Tambourine ran up and pulled the griffon to his paws.

“Come on Gallus, let’s get you to the bleachers.” he helped the griffon limp off the field.

“And it’s the new guys, Pharynx and Gallus, that set up the Prince for the win!”

“I... I did that?” Gallus gasped as he sat down.

“Yes, yes you did!” Coach Jet clapped him on the shoulder. “Good job Gallus, how’s that wing?”

“Hurts, but I’m okay. Pharynx is heavier than he thinks.” Gallus said, smiling halfheartedly.

“Why don’t you get up to the bleachers with your other friends while we end the game.” Coach Jet said, and Gallus nodded.

As he walked up the bleachers, Gallus heard them all cheering for him. He sat down by Tempest and Luna, who were smiling. Gallus smiled back as he lifted Monarch into his claws.

“You did great Gallus.” Luna said, and Tempest nodded.

“Great job kid.”

“Excuse me! Excuse me!” Sandbar rushed to the mike. “Can you give me a ‘G’!”

“G!” the cheerleaders yelled, leading them.

“Gimme an A!”

“A!”

“Gimme an L-L!”

“L-L!”

“Give me a U-S!”

“U-S!”

“What’s that spell?!” Sandbar asked, and they shouted it.

“Gallus!”

Author's Note

If you've seen Descendants I'm sure you can tell what Sandbar is going to do next...do I regret the corniness I have written in the next chapter? No, not at all.

Fantastical

“Oh my Faust…” Luna breathed, as she and Tempest looked at Gallus. He blushed.

“I thought you said that the cookie worked based on sexual preferences!” Gallus whispered

“It does! Either the chocolate chip-whatevers that Ember put in messed it up or Sandbar’s secretly a you-know-what!” Tempest hissed back

“Come on, I can’t hear you!” Sandbar yelled

“Gallus!” everycreature shouted again

“Tempest, I think Gallus has been replaced by a tomato.” Luna giggled

“Shut up Lu!” Gallus spat, then looked at Sandbar. He was beaming.

“I love you Gallus. Did I mention that?” Sandbar asked

Yona tossed her pom poms to the ground, stomped on them, then stormed off. Sandbar ignored her. He signaled for the band to play, and they did. Sandbar then began to dance.

“What was in that cookie?!” Gallus asked Tempest, as the people around him screamed wildly for Sandbar to continue.

“Did I mention,
I’ve fallen for you?
And did I mention
There’s nothing I won’t do?
And did I say that I might
Dream of you every night?
Let me shout it out loud
If that’s alright!
If that’s alright!”

Sandbar began dancing from side to side, Pharynx and Tambourine on either side of him.

“I met this griff that rocked my world
Like it ain’t never been rocked,
Now I’m livin’ just for him and I ain’t gonna stop!
Never thought that it could happen to a colt like me
But look what you’ve done,
You’ve got me down on my knees!”

Sandbar kneeled and Pharynx and Tambourine pulled him up.

“Because my love for you is fantastical!

My love for you is fantastical!
I never knew-”

“Who knew?!” the other Blitzball team members echoed as Sandbar continued.

“It could be like this!
My love for you is fantastical
My love is F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L!”

“F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L!” Sandbar and Gallus’ teammates echoed

“It’s-”

“Fantastical!”

“Just-”

“Fantastical!”

“I swear, I’d give my kinghood for just one kiss!” Sandbar proclaimed

Sandbar then began walking to the bleachers.

“Did I mention
I’ve fallen for you?
And did I mention
There’s nothing I won’t do?
And did I say that I might
Dream of you every night?
Let me shout it out loud!
If that’s alright!
If that’s alright!”

Sandbar began climbing the bleachers, Pharynx flying over him, a grin on his face. He was enjoying watching Gallus duck behind Luna, blushing.

“I gotta know which way to go,
Just gimme a sign!
I need you to show me
You’re only ever gonna be mine!
Don’t wanna go a millennia
Without you
And if your heart isn’t in it,
I don’t know what I would do”

Pharynx swooped down, hooked his forelegs under Sandbar’s-the holes in his legs giving him a better grip on the colt-and depositing him onto the crowd, which carried him.

“Because my love for you is fantastical!
I never knew-”

“Who knew?” the crowd echoed

“It could be like this!
My love for you is fantastical!
My love is F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L!”

“F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L!” the crowd cheered

“It’s-”

“Fantastical!”

“Just-”

“Fantastical!”

“And I would give my kinghood for just one kiss!”

Sandbar was deposited in front of Gallus, who looked at him shyly.

“C’mon now!

Because my love for you is fantastical!
I never knew-”

“Who knew?”

“It could be like this!
My love for you is fantastical!
My love is F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L!”

“F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C-A-L!”

“It’s-”

“Fantastical!”

“Just-”

“Fantastical!”

“And I would give my kinghood for just one kiss!
C’mon now!” Sandbar finished

Gallus’ eyes were wide and he was looking straight at Sandbar, while Monarch mewed in his claws. Sandbar smiled at him, holding the mike to his muzzle.

“I love you Gallus! Did I mention that?” he asked breathlessly.

Yona suddenly barged in, Blueblood being dragged behind her. “Blueblood’s my boyfriend now, I’m going to the coronation with him, so I won’t be needing a pity date.” she told Sandbar, before kissing Blueblood.

Sandbar blinked, then turned back to Gallus. “Gallus, will you go to the coronation with me?!” he asked

Gallus looked at Luna and Tempest, both were nodding. Gallus smiled, grabbed the mike, and shouted into it.

“Yes!”

“He said yes!” Sandbar yelled, and the crowd cheered. Pharynx landed between them.

“Come on you two, the whole team’s waiting! Tambourine said something about a food called pizza, I want to try that.” Pharynx said

“Oh, you two are going to love it.” Sandbar said, keeping his eyes on Gallus as they walked down the bleachers.

Tempest and Luna stood still, waiting for the bleachers to clear out. Once it was clear the crowd wasn’t going to disperse, the two fillies began trotting down anyway. The announcer had begun talking again.

“What a victory, a glorious day for the Equus creatures, finally winning back the trophy after so long.” he said

Luna seemed lost in her thoughts, and Tempest sighed. She knew she had to do something to make her friend feel better. She hesitated, then spoke.

“You know... I kind of... feel bad for Yona.”

“You do?” Luna asked, coming out of her stupor. Tempest nodded, smiling slightly.

“I think if she were talented like you, and knew how to sew and give beauty tips, that she wouldn’t need a Prince like Blueblood to make her feel better about herself.” Tempest said

Luna blushed in embarrassment. “I guess I am kind of talented.”

“Oh, I know you’re gifted.” Tempest replied.

“Thanks Temp…” Luna said, then froze.

“What?”

“Look.”

Tempest glanced over at the Blitzball team, following Luna’s gaze. They had lifted Pharynx onto their shoulders, as they had similarly done to Sandbar earlier. Pharynx was wearing a new jersey, solid blue with the letters MVP printed in a bright red across the front, with a red number 8 on the back.

“There he is! Pharynx, the Most Valuable Player. How do you like that?” the announcer asked

Tempest whooped, despite herself, and Luna giggled.

“Somepony’s in love with the ‘ling.”

“I-I’m just happy for him.” Tempest said, blushing

“Mhm…” Luna hummed

“Shut up.” Tempest spat, then took a breath and looked at the team, smiling. “Come on, let’s see if Sandbar will let us join the team’s party, I want to try some of that ‘pizza’ stuff Pharynx mentioned.”

What Friends Do

Luna dug through her purse. They were having a test in chemistry, she needed that crystal... she knew she’d had it in the hallway…

“Looking for this?”

Luna looked up to see Mr Matter standing in front of her table, holding the moon crystal in his hoof. He turned and gave a friendly grin to Prince Blueblood, who was smirking back.

“Thank you, Blueblood. It’s gratifying to see somecreatures still respect the honor code.” he glared at Luna. “It will be my recommendation that you are expelled.”

“M-Mr Matter, I-”

“But that isn’t fair!” Luna turned to see Snowdrop. “Obviously she wasn’t cheating, because she didn’t have... whatever that is.”

“It’s called a moon crys-”

“You’re not helping.” Snowdrop whispered, then raised her voice. “Mr Matter, I think you should return it to her, or I will go to the Headmare about your sexist behavior.”

“Sexist behavior, Miss Snowdrop?”

“This isn’t the first time you’ve acted unfairly towards mares. We all know that when you called Luna up to the board you were going to say it was a mistake to underestimate fillies, not villains. And last month, you gave Blueblood a mere detention for clearly cheating on a test, when now you’re attempting to expel Luna for allegedly cheating.”

“Well, Miss Snowdrop, Blueblood has proof that this… gem can give her the answers.”

“Oh really? Did he show you how it works?”

“Of course I couldn’t, it only works for her.” Blueblood jabbed a hoof at Luna.

“Then on that faulty logic you have no conclusive proof that Luna was cheating. Maybe she just needed another pencil, did you think of that?” Snowdrop said, adjusting the glasses that enabled her to look Mr Matter in the eye.

“Actually, I was-”

“Luna, please.” Snowdrop shushed her.

“Well… alright. If you can pass the test I’ll return your property and let the matter drop.” Mr Matter begrudgingly said, and Luna stared down at the test.

Snowdrop nudged her in the side and passed her a pencil. Luna gave her a slight smile and got to work.

Luna wandered into the courtyard, and saw Snowdrop lying under a tree, reading. She raced over, then levitated her test to stop in front of the pegasus filly's eyes. Snowdrop glanced up, smiling.

“B+? Good job!” Snowdrop said

“For the first time, it feels like I’m more than just a pretty face.” Luna sighed, sinking down beside Snowdrop.

“Shocker.” Snowdrop smiled “I knew that already.”

“You were really great in there.”

“So were you.”

“...Why did you help me, anyway?” Luna asked

“It’s what friends do. I know you said no to me about asking you out… but we did agree to be friends. And that means helping you.” Snowdrop then gave her a playful glare. “But you had better not cheat again, or I may not save you next time.”

“You know what?” Luna looked down at the test, then up at Snowdrop. “I bet I can get an A on the next test, without the crystal.”

“...Maybe we could get together, maybe for a nighttime study session?” Snowdrop suggested

“Oh, yes, I love the night!” Luna said, blushing. “Kind of a... whole thing with my mom... but still, I enjoy its peace. Meeting at night would be lovely.”

“I enjoy it’s peace too!” Snowdrop added “Of course... before I got these glasses, it didn’t matter to me, day or night. But I loved it being night because I knew it was when everyone else had trouble seeing, like me. And sometimes, I could hear the stars twinkle.”

“That’s beautiful Snowdrop. How about this weekend, after school?” Luna suggested

“Of course, I’d love to-”

“There you are!” Gallus raced up, a snickering Tempest behind him.

“Is something wrong?” Luna asked

“Not really, it’s just…” Tempest nudged Gallus.

“Sandbar just asked me out on... a date.” Gallus said

“We can handle this, don’t worry.” Luna said, standing up. She glanced back at Snowdrop. “I’ll see you later, okay? We can work out more about the study session then.”

“Alright.” Snowdrop smiled “Come find me later whenever you’re done.”

Luna smiled, then leaned down and kissed Snowdrop lightly on the cheek. Luna left with Gallus and a still laughing Tempest. Snowdrop blushed and buried her head in her book.

“Let’s see... you look a bit pale… nothing a little blush can’t fix.” Luna said as they walked off.

“Makeup on a boy?” Tempest asked incredulously.

“Don’t judge, sometimes all you need is a little touch-up. Come on Gallus, let’s head to Temp and I's room and I’ll show you.”

“Okay, easy on that blush, you don’t want to scare him away.” Tempest said, watching Luna apply a bit of blush to Gallus’ cheeks.

“Not that I could... stupid cookie.” Gallus muttered

“Please you two, my mom taught me how to apply blush before I could fly. Always use upward strokes.” Luna said “And... done!”

Tempest leaned against the dresser as she watched Gallus stand up. He was dressed in a pale blue dress shirt with a golden jacket over top.

“Wow…” Gallus breathed “I look…”

“Go on, say it.” Luna said

“Not terrible.” Gallus said, eliciting a snort of amusement from Tempest and a huff from Luna.

They heard a knock at the door and Gallus went to answer it. Sandbar was standing there, smiling softly. He wore a white button up shirt with a sea green jacket over it.

“Thought you might be here…” he trailed off as he took in Gallus’ appearance.

“Do you... like it?” Gallus asked shyly.

“...For the first time I understand the difference between perfect and handsome.” Sandbar said, making Gallus blush. He then held out his hoof. “Ready to go?”

“Yeah. Where are we going?” Gallus asked as they left.

“You’ll see!”

As the door closed behind the two boys, Tempest turned to Luna.

“Thanks for agreeing to help him. My mom was never great at beauty tips, then dad took over raising me when she died… and I never had a sister.” Tempest remarked, and Luna glanced up.

“Well, you’ve got me.”

“You serious?”

“We need all the family we can get to pull this off, and Gallus and Pharynx both left behind their real siblings back on the Isle, so yes.” Luna said as she packed away her makeup. “Besides, my mother’s not exactly a barrel of laughs when she doesn’t get her way, just ask Rising Dawn.”

“You’re afraid of her?” Tempest asked

“Sometimes…” Luna admitted “What about you? Aren’t you scared of your dad?”

Tempest sighed and glanced down at her flank, covered by her cloak. “I just want him to be proud of me. He gets so angry when I disappoint him. And he... he’s my dad, so of course he loves me...in his own way…”

“Moving on…” Luna said “How about a new outfit for you?”

“Get real.”

“Oh come on! At least let me touch up that ratty thing!”

“No, I like my cloak!”

“Pharynx may like what I have in mind~”

“Ew! For the last time, I don’t like him!”

“Don’t lie.” Luna giggled “Alright, I’ll drop it, for now.”

“Thank you.” Tempest sighed, then smirked. “I wonder how Gallus is doing on that date.”

The Date

Gallus and Sandbar were walking across a bridge to get to where Sandbar was taking him.

“Tell me something you’ve never told anyone.” Sandbar suggested

“Um...Luna told me once…” Gallus turned “That her full name is Luna Nyxmare. According to her, Luna means moon in pony latin. So her mom named her Moon Nyxmare.”

“That’s funny, she named her pretty much after herself. Moon Nyxmare. Nyxmare Moon.” Sandbar said, then smiled “But I meant something about yourself.”

“There’s not much to tell… I have an older sister.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah, Gilda. She’s the best.” Gallus said “Our parents died when we were kids, leaving Gruff to take care of us.”

“Your parents... they were Gruff’s daughter and her husband...the Grypas, right?”

“Accent over the y. And yes, the Grýpas Talons.”

“I’m sorry they died…”

“It’s okay. I was too young to remember them anyway.” Gallus replied

“So... do you have a full name?”

“...Gallus Gruff. Gilda’s is Gilda Gruff.” Gallus replied

“...My full name is Sandbar Kelp. Like my dad, Sea Kelp.”

“How princely.” Gallus said as they stepped off the bridge.

The two continued walking, reaching some stepping stones.

“Not really. My parents wanted me to have a normal life... aside from being a Prince.” Sandbar said, trotting to keep pace with Gallus.

“Well, it’s better than your grandfather giving you his name because he’s so full of himself, same with Luna’s name.”

“I guess... oh, watch your step here.” Sandbar took his claw and helped him step across some of the stones. “The rocks can be slippery. Okay, cover your eyes.”

“Why?”

“C’mon, just do it.” Sandbar urged.

Gallus sighed and used his wing to cover his eyes. He felt Sandbar leading him, and gripped the colt’s hoof with his claw.

“Alright... step up.” Sandbar directed, and Gallus did. “Okay, ready? And... open.”

Gallus moved his wing and gasped. They were in a beautiful stone pavilion with broken pillars supporting the roof. It looked sturdy nonetheless. A picnic blanket and basket were set there, invitingly. Surrounding them was a large lake, with rocky cliffs on one side, in the deeper area, perfect for jumping into the water. Sandbar smiled.

“Well?”

“It’s... it’s really pretty.” Gallus said, smiling widely. He was actually enjoying himself.

“Mm…” Gallus moaned as he bit into a chocolate cupcake. Sandbar had placed his jacket off to the side, in nothing but his button up shirt now.

“Is this your first time?” Sandbar asked, chuckling a bit.

Gallus set the cupcake down and began gesturing with his claws. “Well, we don’t really... date on the Isle, it’s more like, gang activity.” he then licked the chocolate off his claws.

Sandbar laughed softly and moved closer. “I meant, is this your first time eating a cupcake?”

“...Is it bad?” Gallus asked, and Sandbar giggled

“A bit. Here…” Sandbar reached and rubbed at the chocolate that was smeared around Gallus’ beak. “Okay, it’s gone.”

“Thanks.” Gallus giggled, picking up the cupcake again. “So... you like guys, huh? I thought... since you were with Yona…”

“Oh, I’m, uh, Bi actually.” Sandbar rubbed the back of his neck.

“What?”

“Bi. As in, Bisexual. It means I’m attracted to both genders.” Sandbar explained

“Oh…”

“Did you... not know that could exist?”

“The only sexualities we knew on the Isle were straight, colt-cuddler, and fillyfooler. My um... my sister has a thing going on with one of our friends back there, another female griff. She keeps it on the down low but our gang knows.”

“I get it. Snowdrop and my parents were the only ones who knew I was Bi, well, before yesterday…” Sandbar said

“Eh, makes sense. Snow blushed pretty hard when Lu kissed her on the cheek before she dragged me off to get ready for this.” Gallus blushed slightly. “Figured she may be a fillyfooler.”

“The term is lesbian. And it’s not ‘colt-cuddler’. That and fillyfooler are insults. It’s gay.” Sandbar informed him. “You know...I don’t think we’ve talked much about ourselves. Just our friends.”

“There’s not much to say, really.” Gallus took another bite of his cupcake. “I’m sixteen, only ever lived in one place, and have a cool older sister.”

“Well, I have a cool younger sister... Coral. She’s a baby, only a year old. Part of the reason my mom and dad want me to take over the kingdom now is so they can spend more time with her, they had her kind of late in their lives.”

“And you’re gonna be the king because of that?”

“Well, that and it’s customary I do, since sixteen is the coming of age and I have a cutie mark.”

“What does your mark mean anyway?”

“That I’m great with sea creatures, basically. I got it when my parents took me to the beach where they met. I helped some sea turtle hatchlings.” Sandbar explained, then realized something. “Speaking of animals, where’s Monarch?”

“Pharynx said he’d watch him.” Gallus replied, licking off the frosting on his cupcake. “So, do I have to start calling you King Sandbar now or…?”

Sandbar sighed and looked away. “A crown doesn’t make you a king.”

“It kind of does.” Gallus said “I know I’m from the Isle, and the closest thing we have to a king there is Tempest’s dad, but I picked up enough here to know it actually does.”

“That’s... not what I meant.”

“Then what did you mean?” Gallus asked, and Sandbar looked over at him.

“Well... your grandfather was a herald of evil, and I’ve got the poster parents of goodness. But that doesn’t mean we’re automatically like them.” Sandbar stood up and trotted to the lake. “We get to choose our own destiny, who we’re gonna be. And right now…” Sandbar looked over at Gallus with a smile. “I can look into your eyes, and I can just tell you’re not evil. I can see it.”

Gallus blushed and busied himself rubbing chocolate off his face. “If only he knew…”

“Hey, you okay?” Sandbar asked, and Gallus nodded.

“I’m fine, just thinking.”

“Alright.” Sandbar then turned back to the lake. “Wanna go for a swim?”

“You mean... right now?”

“Of course right now.”

“Oh... um... I’m good here.”

“Aw, come on, please?” Sandbar asked, taking his claw. Gallus pulled away and reached for a crystal bowl of golden yellow fruit.

“I think I’m gonna stay here and try a... what did you call these?”

“They’re mango slices.”

“Right, I’ll try a mango. I’ve literally never had mango before.” Gallus laughed, then bit into it. His eyes widened at the flavor. “Mm…”

“Okay then. Don’t eat all of them.” Sandbar said, laughing softly, and Gallus nodded.

Gallus watched Sandbar walk around and up to the rocks, unbuttoning his shirt and laying it aside. Gallus smiled as Sandbar whooped and jumped, landing in the water with a splash. He resurfaced, smiling at Gallus. As Sandbar dove under again, Gallus stood up, then began wandering, lost in his thoughts.

If It Were That Simple

Author's Note

Forgot to publish this yesterday. Oh well, it's up now

~Melody Song

If It Were That Simple

Gallus stood still and watched Sandbar swimming for a minute, then turned and went to the other side of the pavilion. He sighed and began singing softly.

“A thousand thoughts, in my head
Should my heart keep listening?
Up ‘till now, I’ve played along
Nothing lost, but something lacking
I can’t decide, what’s wrong, what’s right.
Which path should I take?”

Gallus put a claw to his head in frustration.

“If I simply knew what my heart is telling me
Don’t know what I’m feeling
Don’t tell me this is just a dream
Oh, oh, yeah
If I could simply read the signs before me
I could figure out who I’m meant to be
Oh, oh, if simply
If simply
If simply
If simply”

Gallus stepped away, walking around the pavilion.

“Every step, every word
Every hour, I’m falling more in
To something so new, I have to be brave
To become something I’ve never been
I can’t decide, what’s wrong, what’s right
Which path should I take?

If I simply knew what my heart is telling me
Don’t know what I’m feeling
Don’t tell me this is just a dream
Oh, oh, yeah
If I could simply read the signs before me
I could figure out who I’m meant to be
Oh, oh, if simply
Yeah”

Gallus turned back to the lake, seeing the light glint off of Sandbar’s coat momentarily.

“Am I crazy?
To think maybe
We could happen?
Yeah, and
Would you still stay with me
When the magic’s all run out?”

Gallus choked back a sob.

“If I simply knew what my heart is telling me
Don’t know what I’m feeling
Don’t tell me this is just a dream
Oh, oh...
If I could simply read the signs before me
I could figure out who I’m meant to be
Oh oh…

If simply, oh
If simply, oh
If simply, oh
If simply... oh

If simply
If simply…”

As Gallus finished, he noticed Sandbar hadn’t resurfaced in a while.

“Sandbar? Sandbar?!”

Gallus took off his jacket and ran into the water, ignoring how the cold gripped at his fur and feathers. He waded deeper in, still calling Sandbar’s name. He suddenly slipped on a rock and his head went under. Gallus broke the surface, gasping as he no longer felt the bottom of the lake under his paws. He yelled and swallowed water, sinking back down. He suddenly felt hooves wrap around him and pull him to the surface.

Sandbar lifted Gallus onto the stone pavilion. Gallus gasped and shivered, feeling Sandbar wrap his hooves around him to warm him up.

“Y-You scared me!” Gallus cried, claws groping at Sandbar’s shoulders.

“You don’t know how to swim?” Sandbar asked, holding Gallus close against him.

“No! Of course not, why would I?” Gallus gasped out.

“You live on an island.”

“With a magical barrier around it!”

“Right... I’m sorry Gallus.” Sandbar said. Then, he leaned in, and kissed Gallus’ cheek gently, making him blush against his will. “You... you still tried to save me, even though you can’t swim?”

“Yeah, and now I’m soaking wet.” Gallus said, flicking water off his tail.

“I uh... I was going to give this to you.” Sandbar showed Gallus a beautiful dark blue colored spiral shell.

Gallus took it, glared at Sandbar, and tossed it back in the water. When Sandbar reached down to retrieve it again, he saw Gallus standing up, still trembling.

“Gallus…” As Gallus stalked off, snatching up his gold jacket, he felt something being laid across his shoulders. Sandbar had placed his own jacket over him.

“What do you want Sandbar? I hate water, and you just made me dive in after you-”

“Before, at the game, I told you I loved you.” Sandbar cut him off, and Gallus cocked his head in confusion. “I never asked if you loved me. Do you?”

Gallus hesitated, glad that the water dripping off him prevented Sandbar from realizing he was close to tears. “I... I don’t know what love feels like, Sand…”

Sandbar smiled at him softly. He reached and brushed the griffon’s feathers away from his eyes, the water having made them droop over his face. “Then maybe I can teach you.”

Then, Sandbar pressed his muzzle to Gallus’ beak in a kiss. They broke apart and Gallus blushed. Sandbar smiled and gave him a quick nuzzle, before going to pack up the remains of the picnic. Gallus smiled at the colt in a daze, bringing the jacket tighter around himself.

“So, how was the big date?” Pharynx asked as Gallus walked into the room. “Woah, you’re soaking wet. I thought you hated water.”

“I do.” Gallus said, walking into the bathroom and coming out with a towel. He began to dry off, tossing the gold jacket onto his bed. “How do you know about the date? I just asked you to watch Monarch, I didn’t say why.”

“The girls told me. So how’d it go? You think you’ve got Sandbar fooled?”

“Definitely.” Gallus giggled softly as he discarded the towel on the floor, lying down on his bed.

“I know that look, it’s the same stupid one Luna got on her face when she mentioned that meeting with Blueblood. What’s up Gallus?”

“I... Pharynx, I think I might actually love him.” Gallus sighed, looking at the ceiling. Pharynx smirked.

“I knew that.”

“You what?!” Gallus sat up, startled

“Changeling, remember? I’ve tasted the love coming off you whenever you’re around him.”

“Oh…” Gallus blushed, then laid back down. “But... I’m not sure if I can Pharynx. It’s all a part of Tempest’s plan... we need to get that crown.”

“Yeah…” Pharynx trailed off. “...You know, I’m... kind of glad that Sandbar was spelled to love you, instead.”

“Why’s that?”

“I…” Pharynx sat up. “Gallus, I... I think I’m in love with Tempest.”

“Yeah, I knew that.” Gallus grinned

“Does everyone?” Pharynx groaned, blushing.

“Hm... well... Thorax, Ocellus, Gilda, Gabby, me, Luna, Smolder…”

“I get it.” Pharynx turned red.

“Honestly I think the only one who doesn’t know-other than our parents-is Tempest, and that’s just because she’s so focused on making her dad proud. Or she’s in denial.” Gallus shrugged.

“Y-you think she likes me back?”

“Of course she does, you’ve seen her blushing when she looks at you.”

“...What do I do?”

“Tell her how you feel, obviously.” Gallus sighed and closed his eyes.

“I’ll... think about it. So... what about you?”

“I don’t know Pharynx…” Gallus sighed “It’s just until we get the crown... then we’ll probably have to un-spell Sandbar and... who knows?”

“Yeah…” Pharynx sighed “Oh well. Ready for class tomorrow?”

“No.”

“Yeah, me either.”

Not So Happy Reunion

The next day, the four were waiting for Rising Dawn to come in and start Remedial Goodness. Tempest was drawing in her notebook again, this time making a sketch of Pharynx. Luna was busy arranging her papers, so she was safe to do so without being seen. Pharynx and Gallus were whispering to each other at their table, Gallus petting Monarch. Rising Dawn came in with Sandbar and Snowdrop beside her, helping to push a large tv screen.

“Students.” Rising Dawn got their attention. “Tomorrow, Saturday, is Family day here at Equus Prep. Because your parents can’t be here due to… distance, we arranged for a special treat.”

Sandbar and Snowdrop fiddled with the tv while Rising Dawn beckoned them forwards. The screen lit up, and they saw their parents. The four looked at each other in surprise.

“I can’t see or hear anything!” Cosmos said, fiddling with the computer on his end.

“Kids, come.” Rising Dawn gestured for them to come up. They stood hesitantly and walked up to the screen, standing before it.

“How do you... is it…”

“Hit that one.” Chrysalis supplied, gesturing to one of the keys.

“Can you just let me do this? Ugh, I hate electronic equip-ah!” the screen apparently started working on their end.

“Luna! It’s mother! Oh, look at you, perfect picture. You know what they say, the rotten apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” Nyxmare said, leaning forwards

“Don’t you mean the old, rotten tree?” Cosmos asked, making Nyxmare growl at him.

“Oh, who’s that glorified unicorn?” Gruff asked, peering at Rising Dawn with his good eye.

“This is Rising Dawn.” Tempest told them

“She still doing tricks for the precious niece of hers?” the Storm King asked

Tempest saw Rising Dawn bristling. “Platinum is not my niece, it’s a common misconception!”

“Still, you really couldn’t have extended a hoof to her? What, needed to protect her by making it look like she wasn’t related to you?”

“I-she needed to rule the kingdom on her-she-” Rising Dawn sputtered, and Tempest took over.

“Thank you, ma’am, we’ll take it from here.” Tempest said, and Rising Dawn nodded, stepping aside and waiting offscreen. Sandbar and Snowdrop stood on the other side, also listening.

“Tempest! I’ve m-m-” Cosmos tried to say, and Chrysalis jabbed him. “Missed you, yes.”

“You children are never far from our thoughts.” Chrysalis added

“Yes, how long must we wait to see you?” Cosmos asked

“There’s a coronation coming up, probably sometime after that.” Tempest replied smoothly.

“Are you sure we can’t see you sooner? I don’t know what I’d do if I can’t get my hands on that magic crow-” he was cut off as Nyxmare jabbed him. “You, you little hurricane I love so much.”

“I completely understand father. We’ll see you sometime after the coronation, it’s next Friday, at eleven am.”

“Gallus! Is that a cat?!” Gruff suddenly broke in, leaning over. “Oh, he looks just the right size for a pair of mittens!”

“He’s the perfect size for a pet! I love this cat, and he loves me, got it?!” Gallus cried, holding Monarch close against him. Then, they heard voices.

“Hey, what are you doing?” a semi-raspy voice asked

“Gilda!” Gallus cried, and the brown griffon appeared.

“Oh, hey guys.” she turned back to their parents. “Why didn’t you tell us the call was today?”

“What call?” another voice asked

“Thorax?” Pharynx asked, and his brother appeared.

“Pharynx!”

“Pharynx!” Ocellus galloped up beside Thorax.

Sandbar, Snowdrop, and Rising Dawn leaned in slightly to see the new arrivals. Ocellus and Thorax were grinning and leaning in close beside Gilda to see their brother.

“Hey you two, you doing okay?” Pharynx asked

“We’re... coping. We miss you.” Thorax said, Ocellus nodding along.

“Thorax took over your duties for mother’s hoard but... he’s not very good…”

“Wait, mother, you’re making Thorax do my job?” Pharynx asked

“Someone needed to.” Chrysalis hissed

“The whole reason I do it is so they don’t have to!” Pharynx snarled

“I-It’s okay Pharynx, really... I’m getting better at it...”

“You shouldn’t have to learn to do it in the first place!” Pharynx growled, as Thorax pulled Ocellus into him.

“That’s what I said.” Gilda butted in

“Gil, look!” Gallus distracted her from interrupting the family by holding up Monarch.

“He’s pretty cute Gallus.” Gilda said

“Yeah, turns out cats aren’t that bad.” Gallus’ words were drowned out by Pharynx.

“Mother, I can’t let you corrupt Thorax and Ocellus!”

“You have no control over this Pharynx! You are nothing more than a lowly drone just like them and that is all you will ever be!”

“Doesn’t matter, I’ll fight you until you let Thorax and Ocellus just be themselves!”

“Alright, that’s it!” Cosmos pounded his fist on the table. “Shut up! All of you!”

“Yes, out!” Nyxmare commanded, pointing a hoof off to the side.

“We don’t listen to you, you old bat.” Gilda said, and Nyxmare gasped

“You insolent little child! Get out of here!” Gruff tossed something-it looked like a glass bottle-at Gilda, who ducked and ran.

“You two as well!” Chrysalis added

“B-but mother, we want to talk to Pharynx-” Ocellus tried to say, ears drooping.

“NOW!” she screamed.

Thorax yelped while Ocellus began crying. Chrysalis then proceeded to chase them off, blasting at them with zaps from her horn. Thorax dragged Ocellus away and they could see him trembling as he defended his little sister.

“Stop it mother!” Pharynx shouted, but Chrysalis ignored him.

They saw Gilda bounding in, standing in front of the two, wings flared. She roared at Chrysalis, forcing her to back away. Then Cosmos walked forwards, shouting at all the kids. Now both changelings were crying, and Gilda was protecting them both. Gallus reached out and turned off the screen. Rising Dawn, Sandbar, and Snowdrop stared at the four, sympathy evident on their faces. Rising Dawn found her voice first.

“I had no idea, I’m sorry…” Rising Dawn said, but Tempest shook her head.

“It’s alright. Just an average day on the Isle.” Tempest said, before turning and leading the four away.

“Temp, what do you think our parents are gonna do to us? You know, if we can’t pull this off?” Luna asked in a small voice.

“I think…” Tempest took a breath. “They will be disappointed, but proud of us for doing our best.”

“Really?” Gallus asked with a raised brow, trying to calm Monarch, who had been hissing and spitting since Gruff threw the bottle at Gilda.

“No. No, they’re going to kill us and then punish the others.”

“Yeah…” Pharynx agreed sullenly. Tempest glanced at him.

“We’ll get them, don’t worry. And for now, you saw how Gilda reacted. They’re safe.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” Pharynx smiled at her halfheartedly. “I just hope they stay safe until we can get the crown.”

“Yeah. Now let’s go to you guys’ room, to start the plan.”

Author's Note

Technically not forgetting if it's still the 12th, right? Ugh, I have to stop forgetting I have stories to update...anyway, hope you enjoyed!

~Melody Song

Family Day

They stood in the boy’s dorm. They had a paper in front of them, with a design of the castle on it. Tempest was pointing to different parts.

“Alright, so Gallus will be up on the dais with Sandbar, we’ll be coming in from here. Gallus will be at the very front, and the rest of us will be on the balcony. Pharynx, you know what to do?”

“Find the carriage we arrived in and get it working, so we can break the barrier and get back on the Isle with the crown.”

“Perfect. Lu?”

“I... I cast a sleep spell on the driver so Pharynx can hijack it.”

“Yep.” Tempest replied “And Gallus, you’ll be-Gallus, what are you doing?”

Gallus had his back to them. He was looking down at something. Tempest’s horn glowed and she snatched what it was from his claws. Her spellbook, and it was open to a specific page.

“Gallus, you want to break Sandbar’s love spell?” Tempest asked, and Gallus sighed

“I just... it's, you know, for after. Once the villains invade Equus, and steal, and commit crimes, and imprison the leaders, and destroy everything good and beautiful… I just think Sand still being in love with me would be a little extra mean.”

“...Alright.” Tempest sighed, consenting. “For after only.”

“I promise.” Gallus took the book. “Can I go make it now? So it’ll be ready?”

“...Sure.” Tempest consented, and Gallus scooped up Monarch, heading out.

“Why did you agree?” Luna asked as Gallus left the room.

“I don’t know... I guess just because... he’s right.” Tempest sighed, rolling up the plan. “We are going to take everything good and beautiful from this place.”

“But it’s what you wanted, right?” Pharynx asked

“I thought I did…” Tempest reached up and rubbed her horn. “It doesn’t matter. Once we get that crown it’s over.”

“Yeah. You two had better head to bed, get some sleep.” Pharynx said

“Yeah...see you tomorrow for Family day.” Tempest said, and the two fillies left.

Gallus prepared the ingredients all by himself. He did a good job on his own, and was proud of himself for a minute. Then he remembered why he was doing this, and his heart sank. Gallus was stirring the chocolate batter, and then began to sing softly.

“A thousand thoughts in my head
Should I let my heart listen?
I know, it’s time
For me to say goodbye
So why is it so hard to let go?”

A single tear rolled down his cheek into the batter. He gulped back a sob and kept stirring, stopping momentarily to pet Monarch gently.

Meanwhile, Pharynx lay on his side in his bed, reaching to graze the MVP jersey with his hoof, frowning sadly.

In the girls’ dorm room, Luna lay on her back, levitating her B+ chemistry test above her, looking forlornly at the grade she was so proud of.

Tempest lay in her bed on her stomach looking at the drawings of the crown, which she'd propped up on her pillow. Then, she used her magic to slip another drawing from its hiding place. She brushed the crown drawings away and laid on her side, gazing at her drawing of Pharynx, taking in every last detail, from his hole-covered hooves to his short red tail and jagged back carapace. Tempest felt a tear drip down and saw it land on the paper.

“Are we really making the right decision?” she thought, then hugged the drawing, falling asleep.

The next day, the four kids watched as Sandbar and the other royals sang a song to welcome their families. Then, they joined the party. Pharynx and Luna headed to the chocolate fountain, dipping some of the fruit into it with their magic and eating them. Gallus stayed by Tempest, talking as they took turns petting Monarch.

Sandbar stood between his parents, his mother cradled his baby sister in her foreleg as they posed for a picture.

“Ready?” the photographer asked

“Oh, mom, dad, by the way, I have a new... well, a new boyfriend.”

“Oh, sweetie, that’s wonderful.” Shell Scallop said, smiling at him. “You know, I always thought Yona was a bit self-absorbed. I’m all for strengthening ties with other kingdoms but…” she trailed off with a slight shrug.

“So, do we know your boyfriend?” Sea Kelp asked

“On the count of three. One...two…” the photographer warned them

“Sort of… Gallus!” Sandbar called, and Gallus looked up. He passed Monarch to Tempest and walked over. Sea Kelp and Shell Scallop’s jaws dropped

“Three!” the photographer said, and the camera clicked, Sandbar the only one left smiling, save for his baby sister.

“Gallus, I want to introduce you to my parents.” Sandbar said, trotting down the dais to greet him.

“Sand…” Gallus tried to say, but Sandbar pulled him along.

“Mom, dad, this is Gallus, from the Hidden Isle.” Sandbar smiled at Gallus. “My boyfriend.”

“Hi…” Gallus said shyly

“Hello…” Shell Scallop said softly.

“I was thinking maybe he could join us for lunch.” Sandbar said

“Sandbar, I don’t want to intrude-” Gallus said, looking at him

“Oh, it’s no trouble... any friend of Sandbar’s…” Sea Kelp said

“It’s okay… I actually came with my friends…”

“Well, we can invite them too, the more the merrier, after all.” Shell Scallop said brightly, glancing at Sea Kelp with a look that told him not to ruin things for Sandbar.

“Okay... I guess I’ll go grab them.” Gallus said, turning to leave.

“Sandbar, how about some croquet before lunch?” Sea Kelp suggested

“Okay dad.” Sandbar smiled “Game on.”

“Game on.” Sea Kelp agreed, and they looked to Gallus.

“Um... okay then.” Gallus said, before he and Sandbar walked off.

“Have you played croquet before?” Sandbar asked him.

“No... what’s croquet?”

“I’ll show you.” Sandbar smiled, as they approached his friends.

They all gathered out on the lawn, where the necessary equipment for a game of croquet had been placed. Sandbar showed Gallus how to stand while Luna and Tempest sat nearby, playing with Monarch. Pharynx stood by Tempest, talking with her on occasion.

“There, see? You’re a natural.” Sandbar smiled at Gallus, who smiled back. “Wait here, I’ve just got to speak with my dad. I’ll be right back.” he nuzzled Gallus before heading off.

Gallus saw a large male yak wandering by, and the yak looked over.

“Hello there.”

“Hi.” Gallus said, nervous.

“Have we met?”

“No, I-I don’t think so sir. I’m sort of a... transfer student.”

“Oh.” the yak said simply, as Yona walked up.

“Dad!”

“Oh, Yona, there you are! I’ve been looking for you.” he said, giving her a hug, and Yona glared over at Gallus, who gulped.

“Dad, I don’t think you want to be talking to this boy. Not unless you want to have your treasures stolen again.”

“What?” he looked at Gallus again, who gave him a nervous smile. “You... how are you here? And how did you get so young?”

Gallus blinked, stepping back as the yak bore down on him. Sandbar rushed up, putting a hoof on Gallus’ shoulder.

“Prince Rutherford, it’s okay. Gruff is still on the Hidden Isle. This is his grandson, Gallus. Don’t you remember my proclamation to give the new generation a chance?”

“A chance to what, Sandbar?” the yak, Prince Rutherford, asked. “Destroy us? You remember, don’t you?” he raised his voice, attracting the attention of the other leaders. “The love stealing. The storms. The night lasting forever.”

Prince Rutherford bore down on Gallus, who whimpered slightly. He glanced behind him to see his friends coming up to them. Gallus took Monarch from Luna, who offered him out.

“And the stealing…” Prince Rutherford growled “My crown was stolen because of your grandfather. You mustn’t trust him!”

“I... your majesty, I’m so, so-” Gallus stepped forwards, but Blueblood blocked his path.

“Get away from him!” he said

“Blueblood!” Sandbar exclaimed

“What? They were raised by their parents, Sandbar. What do you think villains teach their kids? Kindness? Friendship? Fair play? No!” Blueblood approached Gallus and prodded him in the chest with his hoof. “You stole an innocent girl’s boyfriend.”

“Hey, calm down!” Sandbar said, pulling Gallus close to him with a hoof. Blueblood ignored him.

“You enjoy hurting creatures.” Blueblood jabbed a hoof at Pharynx, then looked at Tempest. “You cast spells on other students. And you...” Blueblood turned to Luna, grinning wickedly. “You’re nothing but a gold digger, and a cheater.”

“Wh-what? I didn’t ever-ugh!” Luna reached into her purse and held up the moon crystal in her magic. “Moon crystal in my grasp, who’s the biggest jerk in Equus?” she turned it to face Blueblood as it showed a reflection of him.

“Hey!”

“Just back off Blueblood, okay?” Pharynx asked, stepping in front of Tempest, who had been silent and grown sullen when Blueblood had spoken to her.

Blueblood growled and lunged forward at Pharynx. Luna then ignited her horn and her magic wove around Blueblood. He fell to the ground in a faint. Yona gasped, as Ember and Snowdrop ran up to him.

“Blueblood? Blue? Luna did something to Blue!” Yona exclaimed, and suddenly everyone was looking at the four villain creatures.

“Blueblood, wake up.” Ember said, hitting his muzzle to wake him.

“Come on Gallus.” Luna said, grabbing his claw in her magic and pulling him away as Blueblood stirred.

“Guys!” Sandbar called

Tempest shook herself and grabbed Pharynx’s hoof. “Come on Phar.”

“Blueblood, wake up.” Ember urged, and he woke with a start

“Come on Blueblood…” Snowdrop helped Ember get him on his hooves. Sandbar ran to his parents.

“I feared something like this would happen.” Sea Kelp said

“This isn’t their fault!” Sandbar protested

“No son, it’s yours.” Sea Kelp said, turning and walking away, Shell Scallop behind him, still holding Coral.

“What happened?” Yona asked Blueblood

“It’s like I fell asleep…”

“Of course, daughter of Nyxmare, the Bringer of Nightmares.” Yona muttered

Author's Note

Hey look, I remembered to publish it on the right day! Yay! Hope you enjoyed

~Melody Song

The Aftermath

The four creatures hid out in their rooms for the following week. They only left the privacy of their dorms for classes. The villain creatures took to dining alone in the courtyard, at a table in the far reaches of the garden. In every class, save for their private class, Remedial Goodness, their classmates shunned them. Even Tempest had to admit she had never felt more outcasted and alone.

That Thursday, they sat at a picnic table near the one where the royal students were seated. Tempest picked at her food, staring blankly down at the tray. Pharynx rubbed her back gently in comfort, and Tempest looked up at him. Pharynx chuckled and offered her a gentle smile. She blushed and forced a smile back. Gallus and Luna looked at each other and sighed. They wanted to be happy that the two oblivious creatures were growing closer, but they were too upset to be genuine about it.

Sandbar trotted up, giving them a half smile. “Hey guys, how is everyone? Doing okay?”

They looked up at him, expressions downcast. Sandbar sighed and moved closer to Gallus. He nuzzled the griffon and looked around at them all.

“Okay… look, just forget it, okay? It was nothing, let it go. I know you're not evil, and you've got me."

"Guess so..." Gallus mumbled

"Look, Sandbar..." Luna sighed "It's really sweet of you to say, but..."

"One creature believing in us won't do much about the hundreds that don't." Tempest finished

"And we can't even do things like the clubs anymore because everyone runs from us." Pharynx added sullenly. He'd been missing Blitzball, as silly as it seemed, he enjoyed being on the team, and the running and jumping. Being cheered on helped too.

"Look, I promise, after the coronation tomorrow, everything will be okay.” Sandbar leaned down and kissed Gallus’ cheek, making him smile softly. “Alright. I have to go, but I’ll see you guys later.”

As Sandbar left, Snowdrop trotted up, a tray of food on her back. She looked at them sheepishly and scuffed her hoof in the ground. Her wings twitched nervously on her back.

“Luna, about Family Day, I-” she began, but was cut off.

“Snowdrop!” Blueblood stood at the table where he was.

“It’s my fault Snow, I’m sorry.” Luna whispered, tears pricking in her eyes.

“No, it’s mine, Luna. I should’ve stuck up for you like Sandbar wante-”

“Snowdrop!” Blueblood called again

“Snow…” Luna whispered, eyes beginning to water.

“Are you coming or what Snow?” Blueblood asked

“I’m sorry…” Snowdrop whispered "I... I have to..."

“Just go…” Luna murmured, ducking her head as tears fell onto the table. “J-Just go…”

“Okay... I'm sorry, really…” Snowdrop said, before leaving.

Yona and Celestia suddenly walked up, laughing and glaring at the kids. Yona flipped her braids and Celestia shook her head, her flowing mane waving.

“I mean, how long does he think it’s really gonna last? Gallus is just that typical bad boy infatuation.” Yona remarked loudly.

“Yeah. Heh, like Sandbar would ever make a villain his King.” Celestia agreed

"Why would anyone even want two kings?" Yona agreed

Gallus was clearly about to cry, gritting his teeth and clenching his claws into fists. Tempest snarled and her horn ignited. She closed her eyes and focused her magic.

“I cast this spell, victim unaware, undo Celestia’s hair.” Tempest murmured

There was a scream, and then loud laughter. The other royal students were laughing and pointing hooves at Celestia, whose mane had shrunk back to it’s short, soft pink state. Celestia had screamed, and was feeling her pink mane.

“Hahaha! Ew!” Blueblood cried.

"Worst mane ever!" Yona laughed.

Celestia covered her face with her wings and ran, crying. Snowdrop and Ember looked at each other, then stood and started after Celestia.

"Who even did that?" Yona chortled

“Oh, you like it? There’s a lot more where that came from.” Tempest said, standing up.

“Excuse me? Who do you think you are?” Yona asked snobbishly.

“Do I look like I’m kidding? I gave them those manes, I can easily take them away.” Tempest sneered.

Tempest’s broken horn sparked dangerously, frightening the royal students. The crowd screamed and ran away from the villain creature's table. Tempest watched with a cold gaze as the courtyard cleared out before their eyes and smirked.

The scar on Tempest's eye looked even more prominent in the half light under the shade of the trees. Her face was bathed in shadows, making her eyes shine. Tempest glared out at the empty courtyard, horn still crackling and sparking as she grinned, turning to face her friends.

“You know what?"

"W-What?" Luna looked up and wiped her eyes.

Tempest grinned, waiting for them all to look over at her. Pharynx shifted in his seat and kept his eyes on hers. Luna and Gallus wiped at their red eyes and waited for her to speak.

"I’m really looking forward to tomorrow. Why should we pretend to be nice if everyone seems to believe we're not capable of being good? I say it's time we embrace our roles in this story of our lives. Time to show everyone just how evil we can be." Tempest said, grinning.

"I'm with you Tempest, if they think we're evil, then so be it." Pharynx agreed, baring his fangs and flicking out his forked tongue to hiss menacingly.

"Agreed. Time for me to dig deeper into my roots." Gallus added, raising a fist. "I'll make mom and dad proud."

"Mother always said the most beautiful roses bear the biggest thorns." Luna smiled, flicking her flowing mane and igniting her horn. "It's time for this little rose to reveal her thorns. They'll be putting everyone to sleep."

Tempest smiled and grabbed her bag. "Come on then guys, let’s get ready to grab that crown and blow this popsicle stand.”

The four villain creatures stood and stalked off, smiling slightly as they thought of tomorrow. When they would finally be free of the creatures that had stripped them of everything they thought they loved about Equus. And when they would finally make their parents proud by showing them all just how rotten they were.

The Unexpected Twist

Author's Note

Okay, well, maybe not "unexpected" twist because I'm sure whoever is reading this that has seen Descendants will know what's coming, but I'm keeping it vague for those who possibly haven't seen Descendants. Enjoy!

~Melody Song

The Unexpected Twist

“There you are!” Luna cried as Tempest trotted in. “Here’s your gown for the coronation, now I’ve got to give these to Pharynx and Gallus!”

Luna levitated a beautiful purple dress to Tempest, then grabbed two suits, one violet and black and the other gold and royal blue, and raced out. Tempest sighed as she carried the dress to the mirror, shutting the door to the room behind her. She began to put on the dress.

The dress was long, with electric blue highlights to the deep purple. It had a magenta sash around it, with some armored plates on the sleeves. The shoes were a dark purple, nearly black. Tempest turned to look at herself, and decided she didn’t look half bad. The only problem she had with it was that it didn’t have a hood to conceal her horn with. This was most likely intentionally done by Luna.

The door opened and Tempest turned to see who it was. Luna trotted in with Gallus and Pharynx behind her. They were wearing the suits Luna had run out with, Gallus was holding Monarch, who was dressed up in a little white button-up shirt with a black bow tie.

“Woah... Temp…” Pharynx said upon seeing her.

Luna walked by Tempest as she scooped up the remaining outfit. “Get ‘em filly, live a little.” she whispered as she passed.

Tempest blushed at the comment, but Luna entered the bathroom to change before she could reply. Pharynx walked closer, looking very handsome in his violet purple suit with black trims. He smiled at Tempest, fangs showing.

“Nervous?”

“A bit…” Tempest admitted, and Pharynx reached to hug her.

“Don’t worry. Your plan’s amazing, it’s gonna work.”

“Thanks Phar…” Tempest blushed harder, and Pharynx glanced at Gallus, who nodded at him.

“Um... Tempest…” Pharynx let go of her and looked down at the ground with his solid lavender eyes. Tempest noticed he was blushing. “Listen, I have something to tell you.”

“What is it?” Tempest asked

“Well... I’ve been trying to figure out for a while why I get so nervous around you. I’m kind of embarrassed to admit that I didn’t see it sooner... I mean, I’m a changeling, after all.”

“What are you saying Phar?” Tempest asked him

“I’m saying…” Pharynx took a breath. “I love you.” he admitted

Tempest’s eyes went wide, as Luna exited the bathroom. She was dressed in a midnight blue gown with black accents. The skirt was a dark blue, but had another part that came over it, a transparent blue fabric, with white sparkles within that were designed to look like constellations. Luna looked around at them all.

“Did I miss something?”

Tempest gulped and her mouth opened. “Say that again.” she told Pharynx.

“Tempest Shadow, I’m in love with you.” Pharynx said, and Tempest hesitated, then smiled.

“That’s what I wanted to hear.”

She stepped closer to him, and slipped a hoof around his neck. Tempest raised his head and kissed him, ignoring how his fangs made it awkward. Pharynx broke the kiss, a goofy smile on his face.

“Oh wow. That was a lot of love.” he then burped, covering his mouth. Tempest laughed and nuzzled his cheek.

“Aww, how romantic.” Luna sighed, smiling.

“Heh…” Pharynx and Tempest both blushed. Pharynx then reached a hoof up and brushed it along the scar on Tempest’s eye. “You’re beautiful Temp.”

“...You’re pretty handsome too, bug.” Tempest said, pecking him on the cheek.

There was a knock at the door, and Luna opened it with her magic. Sandbar was standing there, wearing a pale sea green button up shirt, with an emerald green blazer that had golden buttons and a pin on the lapel. He smiled as he walked in.

“Now, how did I know you were going to be in here?” he teased, seeing Gallus. “You look amazing, Gallus. You ready?”

“I think so.” Gallus smiled at him, and Sandbar grinned back.

Gallus walked after Sandbar as he left the room, Monarch on his back. The griffon glanced back at them and opened his wing slightly, revealing a box where the cure for the love spell no doubt was.

“Good luck.” Tempest mouthed, and he nodded his thanks.

“So, what now?” Luna asked

“I found a spell and managed to teleport our bags to just outside the school. Once we have the crown, we can pick them up before opening the barrier. All that’s left to do... is go to the coronation.” Tempest said

“Shouldn’t be too bad, now that I have a gorgeous date.” Pharynx said, extending a hoof.

Tempest blushed and accepted his hoof. “As do I.” she teased, then looked at Luna. “You’re okay with not having an actual…?”

“I’m fine…” Luna sighed “I just...I wish Dropsy and I could’ve…”

“Dropsy? Oh, you mean Snowdrop.” Pharynx said, and Luna blushed

“I know what mother said about fillyfoolers, but she and I had a connection. It would have been nice to go, just as friends…” Luna then looked up, smiling. “Don’t worry about it, I’m happy you two finally figured it out. Now let’s get going, we don’t want to be late.”

“And at last, here we are, broadcasting live from the coronation where Prince Sandbar will soon be crowned King! I’m Princess Skystar, bringing you up to the second coverage of this spectacular event!” the yellow hippogriff with a blue mane announced.

On the Hidden Isle, the parents of the villain kids in Equus watched using a tv that Thorax, Pharynx, Ocellus, Tempest, and Gallus had made together. Their other kids were watching as well, hiding behind the couch to watch.

“Ugh, I will forever resent the day the ponies rose up and saved those dumb hippogriffs.” Cosmos muttered, tossing popcorn at the tv.

On the tv, they saw Rising Dawn walking up, levitating at her side a glass container where her golden crown rested on a velvet pillow. Celestia lingered at her side, trying to hide from the cameras to avoid revealing her mane.

“Ooh, Rising Dawn looks simply radiant!” Princess Skystar said “But...what is going on with Celestia’s mane? Oh, and there’s the crown!”

“I want that crown…” Cosmos said, reaching for the screen as if he could pull it from the tv.

“Do you? I had no idea.” Chrysalis said sarcastically, and he huffed.

“Oh, here comes Sandbar now!”

Back on Equus, Sandbar sat beside Gallus in their carriage. Gallus was clearly nervous, fidgeting and gripping the box with the anti-love spell tightly. Monarch was mewing as he sat between them, granted this place of honor at Sandbar’s insistence. Sandbar placed a hoof on Gallus’ claw soothingly, and he looked up.

“Don’t worry, all you need to do is stand there and look handsome. No problem there.” he said, and Gallus blushed, smiling softly.

“Thank you.” Gallus whispered

“Gallus... would you wear my pin?” Sandbar gestured to the pin on his suit. It had a green gem in the center.

“Oh, I don’t know, I’d probably lose it.” Gallus pushed his offering hoof away gently. “I... I have something for you.”

“Really? For me?”

“Yeah.” Gallus passed Sandbar the box, which he opened to reveal a small chocolate cupcake.

“Like the one you had on our first date.”

“Heh, yeah…” Gallus blushed. “It’s for after the coronation, you know, keep up your energy.”

“Aw, always thinking, aren’t you?” Sandbar asked, then lifted up the cupcake. “But I can’t wait.”

“No!” Gallus cried, reaching, but Sandbar had already put the whole thing in his mouth.

“Mm... Gallus, this is really great!” Sandbar said as he chewed.

“Um, do you feel okay?”

“Of course, why?”

“I mean... would you say you’re still... in love with me?” Gallus asked

“Mm... not sure. Let’s give the anti-love potion a minute to work.” Sandbar said, and Gallus nodded, looking ahead, then registered what Sandbar had said.

“Wait, what?”

Sandbar looked over, smiling and laughing slightly. Gallus stared at him.

“You knew?”

“That you guys spelled me, yeah, I knew.”

“I... Sandbar, I can-”

“Don’t worry.” Sandbar said, smiling slightly “I get it, you had a crush on me, I was still with Yona, you didn’t trust it would happen on its own and asked the others for help, right?”

“R-right, yeah.” Gallus said, glancing away momentarily, then looking back. “How long have you known?”

“Since our first date. The spell washed away in the Enchanted Lake I took you to.”

“E-Enchanted Lake?”

“Yeah.”

“S-so what, you’ve just been... faking it since then?” Gallus asked, feeling a lump rise in his throat as he feared the things Celestia and Yona had said were coming true.

Instead of responding, Sandbar unclipped the pin, and carefully fastened it to Gallus’ suit. As Gallus looked down at it, then up at Sandbar, the colt lifted the griffon’s claw in his hoof and kissed it gently.

“I haven’t been faking anything.” he assured Gallus, as the carriage pulled up. “Ready?”

“Y-yeah. Ready.” Gallus said, picking up Monarch and situating him in his claw, before stepping out of the carriage, Sandbar behind him.

Through the tv on the Hidden Isle, the group of parents and siblings all recognized who it was exiting the carriage beside Sandbar.

“Well if it isn’t-” Nyxmare began

“My grandson! Looking like some kind of fa-”

“Very Princely.” Skystar spoke on screen, cutting off Gruff. “Let’s see who this handsome fellow is wearing…” she lifted up a card in her claw. “Luna.”

“Lu-that’s my dau...Luna!” Nyxmare stammered

“A pony named Luna designed his suit. Well, folks, it seems we have another rising fashion star.”

“That’s my daughter!” Nyxmare cried

“Oh joy, she sewed an outfit for a disgusting little gay grub.” Chrysalis sneered.

Thorax and Ocellus then had to restrain Gilda, whose eyes were nearly overflowing with tears of rage as she clearly made to strangle the Queen. Ocellus was fighting back tears at her mother's comments, and Thorax had to stop himself from letting go of Gilda to comfort his sister.

“I don’t understand it! What’s going on, that should be Tempest!” Cosmos exclaimed, then sighed “Oh well, who cares, so long as she can still nab the crown.”

“Bitter, party of one.” Nyxmare remarked

“Gallus! Oh, when I get my claws on him!”

“Quit your whining, this has got to be part of their plan!” Cosmos snapped

“Make that bitter, party of two.” Chrysalis told Nyxmare, who nodded

“It’s happening, creatures!” Cosmos rose to his feet. “Villains! Our revenge begins today!”

Gilda, Thorax, and Ocellus looked at each other, all nervous. As their parents stood to gather what was necessary for taking over, they snuck to the tv. The three sat down and watched the screen, focusing on Gallus and looking for the others.

Far away from the Hidden Isle, in Equus, Sandbar and Gallus approached Sandbar’s parents.

“About Family day, I just…” Gallus tried to say, but Sea Kelp held up a hoof to stop him.

“I told Sandbar this wasn’t going to be easy.”

“You also have always taught me that a king has to believe in himself. Even when it isn’t easy.”

“I did? Well, how very wise of me.” Sea Kelp said, chuckling slightly. Shell Scallop took over.

“Sandbar, we are very proud of you. Keep listening to your heart.” she told him

“Thanks mom.” Sandbar looked to his father, who put a hoof on his shoulder.

“You’re going to make a great king.” he said, eyes shining with pride.

“Oh…” Gallus looked at the guard that approached “Do I…”

“Go with him and my parents, okay? I’ve got to get in position, wish me luck.” Sandbar gave Gallus a quick nuzzle before they went in separate directions.

“Come on, don’t blow it kid…” Gilda whispered “We’re counting on you-ack!”

“Move!” Cosmos barged in, knocking the three kids aside before giving them a chance to comply to his order.

Rising Dawn was standing at the dais, Sandbar in front of her, Gallus and Sandbar’s parents standing off to the side. Gallus cradled Monarch in one claw, watching silently.

“Do you solemnly swear to govern the creatures of Equus with justice and mercy for as long as you shall reign?” Rising Dawn asked Sandbar

“Oh just grab it already!” Cosmos muttered “This is why Tempest is the leader!”

Sandbar bowed. “I do solemnly swear.”

“Then it is my honor and joy to bless you, our new king!”

As Rising Dawn lowered the crown, about to place it on Sandbar’s head, it was surrounded by a yellow aura and yanked away. There were gasps of shock from the crowd.

“Yes!” Cosmos raised his arms in celebration as the crown fired off a beam of light.

Gilda, Thorax, and Ocellus held each other as the whole Isle shook.

“The barrier is broken, we’re free!” Nyxmare exclaimed

“Staff, now!”

Cosmos grabbed his staff and the jewel ignited. He laughed madly as storm clouds swirled around him, and he was gone. The Storm King was free once more. Nyxmare, Chrysalis, and Gruff flew after him just as quickly.

“We’ve gotta do something!” Ocellus said

“Come on!”

Gilda took off, followed by Thorax and Ocellus. They flew as fast as their wings would take them, following a different path so as not to be seen by their parents. They had to make it to Equus, to warn their siblings. The four most hated villains in Equus history were back. And if they managed to reach the mainland, they'd go for whatever they wanted, and wouldn't be taking no for an answer.

The Plan Is Stopped Before It Begins

Author's Note

I forgot again! I need to get better at this. Anyway, enjoy!

~Melody Song

The Plan Is Stopped Before It Begins

Back on Equus, everyone in the castle stared at the one who had stolen the crown. Rising Dawn gaped at the one holding the precious artifact.

“Child, what are you doing?!”

“If you won’t make me beautiful I’ll do it myself!” Celestia yelled, her aura jerking as the crown tried to regain control.

Gallus dropped Monarch, who screeched and ran to Sandbar. He took off and grabbed onto the crown with his front claws, pulling it away from Celestia. Both he and the golden crown tumbled to the floor. The crowd relaxed as the danger seemingly passed. Tempest, Pharynx, and Luna all began running down from the balcony.

Sandbar let out a relieved sigh and trotted to Gallus, who was sitting up.

“Gallus, give me the crown, okay?” he said, but Gallus held it close.

“Stand back.” he said, voice trembling

“Gallus-”

“Sandbar, I said STAND BACK!” Gallus yelled, as Tempest, Pharynx, and Luna ran up.

“I told you so!” Yona cried, and Tempest ignited her horn, snarling, which caused Yona to yelp and jump back.

“Let’s go!” Tempest said, beckoning with her hoof.

“Revenge time.” Pharynx added

Snowdrop and Ember ran to join Sandbar. They too, didn’t believe for a second that the kids were truly evil.

“You really want to do this?” Sandbar asked

“We have no choice Sandbar!” Gallus said “Our parents-”

“Your parents made their choice a long time ago. Now you make yours.” Sandbar said

Tempest looked at Gallus, saw the pin on his suit, the one Sandbar had been wearing, and something clicked in her mind. She took a breath, and spoke out.

“I think… guys, I think I want to be good.” Tempest spoke, and they all looked to her.

“You are good.” Sandbar said

“How do you know that?” Gallus asked, and Sandbar trotted forward, reaching to brush Gallus’ feathers away from his eyes.

“Because I’m listening to my heart.”

“I... I want to listen to my heart too.” Tempest said, trotting forwards in front of her friends and turning to face them. “I’ve been ignoring it this whole time… that something just didn’t feel right. But right now I know that we are not our parents.”

“What are you saying?” Gallus asked

“I mean…"

Tempest took a breath to compose herself. There was a lot she wanted to say. The room was silent once more as they watched the kids.

"Pharynx, stealing things doesn’t make you happy. Blitzball and pizza with your team makes you happy!” Tempest said, eyes watering. “Gallus, petting Monarch and being with Sandbar makes you happy, who would’ve thought?”

Tempest laughed softly, then turned to Luna, who was hesitating.

“And Luna, you do not have to play dumb to get a guy! You are so, so smart.” Tempest wiped her eyes with a hoof. “And me…"

Tempest sniffed and turned, shaking her head.

"I don’t want to take over the world at my dad’s side, I never have." she admitted, and her friends' eyes widened.

"But, Tempest, you said you'd always follow him..." Luna said "You said you were loyal to him first and everyone else second."

"And how are you supposed to fix your horn without him?" Gallus added

At this, everyone's eyes flicked to the stunted remains of the unicorn's horn. Tempest too, glanced up at it, then sighed and shook her head.

"Conquering the world doesn’t make me happy. Even without my horn... going to school and… and being with all of you makes me happy.”

Tempest then trotted to Pharynx.

“And Pharynx makes me really, really happy.” she laughed softly, as he blushed and ducked his head in embarrassment. Tempest then turned and held out her hoof. “I choose good, guys.”

“I choose good too.” Pharynx said immediately, putting his hoof on her own. They smiled at each other, blushing.

“Me too, I choose good.” Gallus said, extending his wing to lay it on top of their hooves.

“So... um, just to be clear…” Luna said, hesitating. “We don’t have to worry about how mad our parents are gonna be? Because they’re going to be really mad.”

“Your parents will never be able to reach you here.” Sandbar told her. "The barrier will make sure of that." Luna smiled

“Okay then.” she extended her own wing. “I choose good.”

Then, they looked to Ember, Snowdrop, and Sandbar. The three Equus kids smiled too, and trotted over, placing their own wing, hoof, and claw on the pile.

“So, now what-” Gallus was cut off by the sound of glass breaking.

The seven looked up, ignoring the screams of the still shaken guests of the coronation. They spotted the center of the commotion, a brown griffon with white and purple accents, and two changelings, flying in through the broken window.

“Gilda?!” Gallus asked

“Thorax! Ocellus!” Pharynx yelled, as the three hit the ground.

“Pharynx!” Ocellus flew to her older brother, wrapping him in a hug.

“Gallus, the barrier’s broken!” Gilda ran to him. “We came to warn you, we hoped we weren’t too late, our parents are on their way and-”

Suddenly, they heard the loud rumble of thunder, and the kids all backed away, turning to look at the dais. Pharynx stepped in front of Thorax and Ocellus, who hid behind their brother. Gallus picked up Monarch, who was mewing in fright on the ground. Gilda stood in front of him, wings spread, teeth bared. Tempest and Luna stood in front of Snowdrop and Ember, guarding the innocent pair with their horns ignited. Sandbar backed up, joining Gallus.

Sea Kelp and Shell Scallop jumped back in fright as the Storm King appeared. He was followed by Nyxmare Moon, then Chrysalis entered, followed by Gruff. Rising Dawn gasped and stepped away from them. Celestia looked terrified. She had done this. She ran to the group, charging up her own horn and standing beside Luna.

“We’re back!” the Storm King announced with a wide grin, slamming his staff on the ground. Everyone within the castle stood in shock.

The Parent Trap

"What? No celebratory cheer for daddy?" Cosmos, aka, The Storm King, asked, looking down at Tempest.

“Go away, father.” Tempest spoke loudly and calmly.

“She’s funny." Cosmos chuckled, looking around the room as if waiting for them to agree. "You’re so funny darling.” he then reached out a hand to Gallus, gesturing to him. “Here, crown me. Haha, get it?!”

Gruff stepped up when Gallus hesitated. “Give him the crown you ungrateful colt-cuddler!” he yelled, which made many of the royals in the crowd gasp and cover their mouths.

“...Rising Dawn, go long!” Gallus reared and threw it.

Rising Dawn caught the crown as it flew to her, and made to place it on her head. “By the power of the sun, I now-”

“Oh, give it a rest.” Nyxmare’s horn glowed and the crown was snatched from Rising Dawn’s aura. “Literally!”

Rising Dawn collapsed as Nyxmare shot a sleep spell at her.

“Now, where to start... how about by getting rid of some of this…” Chrysalis’ horn ignited and she snatched the jeweled pin from Gallus’ suit, sending it flying to Nyxmare, who attached it to the crown.

“Perfect fit!” Cosmos laughed cruelly, noticing the heartbroken look on Gallus face. “Aww, did that hurt? Pfft, so be it. Falling in love is weak.”

As he said this, Tempest charged up her broken horn with as much power as she could muster. The two alicorns beside her followed her lead, and they threw up a forcefield that surrounded the watching crowd, including Sandbar’s parents and the unconscious Rising Dawn.

“Well, they’re safe, and now we’re in here!” Ember muttered

“It’s the best we could manage. If you three had stayed out of it in the first place you’d be safe!” Luna whispered, speaking to Celestia, Ember, and Snowdrop.

“Never. We know you, we wanted to make sure you were okay.” Snowdrop replied

“And I need to apologize... I let the want for beauty go to my head and-” Celestia began to say

“Apologies later guys, we’ve got bigger things to worry about!” Tempest spat, clearly struggling to hold up her part of the forcefield.

“Temp... your horn…” Luna breathed

“I... I can’t keep it up much... longer... help!” she gasped, as Pharynx ran to her.

“Will you stop? This isn’t what you want, any of you!” Chrysalis snarled

“How do you know what we want?!” Gallus yelled, making all four of the villains pause. “Have any of you ever asked what we wanted?”

“Exactly!” Tempest agreed, dropping her half of the forcefield, Luna and Celestia holding it up on their own. “We are not you!”

“Of course you’re not me, Tempest.” her father walked by, scuffing a hand over her mane, and Tempest huffed, turning to glare at him. “I’ve had years of practice, you’ll get there.”

“No, she won’t!” Gallus shouted. “She never will and I really wish none of you had gotten there yourselves. Love isn’t weak or ridiculous, it’s amazing!”

“Enough of this foolishness, it is time for my part of the plan!” Nyxmare announced.

Nyxmare tossed the crown to Cosmos, who caught it. She took off, hovering in midair. The moon suddenly rose, blocking out the sun. The room grew very, very dark, the now emerging stars being the only light besides the glow from Luna and Celestia’s horns.

“No!” Celestia screamed. She galloped forwards.

“Celestia, no!” Luna yelled, knowing what her mother was capable of.

Celestia stood before Nyxmare Moon, and her horn began to glow brighter. “I am not afraid of you! I won’t let you take away the day!”

The sky began to brighten, and Celestia was raised into the air. Her eyes closed as her mane lengthened, flowing and striped with pink, purple, blue, and teal. Her flank flashed as a golden sun appeared on it, followed by the actual sun appearing in the sky. Celestia fell to the ground, weak but looking very happy.

“I did it…”

“Oh, you did it alright.” Nyxmare blasted Celestia, and she went flying, landing back beside the others, knocked out.

Snowdrop and Ember knelt down to her, as Luna filled her own horn with even more magic. The young alicorn then held up the forcefield alone.

“And now I demand, crown to my head!” Tempest shouted, horn sparking as the spell made the crown jerk from her father’s hand and landed on her head. “It worked!”

“I hardly think so. This is just tedious and highly immature. Give me the crown! All of you get over here!” Cosmos demanded loudly.

“Hold on Tempest.” Gallus raced up, Monarch padding at his side. “Maybe the stories are right. Maybe good really is more powerful than evil.”

“Oh please, you’re killing me!” Cosmos said, doubling over as he laughed.

“Yes!” Gruff stalked forwards and hissed like a cat. Monarch leapt at him, clawing his face. “Ah, ow! Get it off of me!”

As Gruff struggled, Chrysalis used her magic to drag Pharynx forward. “Hm... your father should be jealous.” she said as she admired Pharynx’s muscles. Pharynx hissed and wriggled out of her magic, taking off and landing beside Tempest.

“You will all regret this!” Nyxmare shouted, charging up her horn.

“Luna, give us a path out!” Tempest cried, as Ember placed Celestia on Snowdrop’s back.

They ran as Luna warped the forcefield to protect the bystanders as they ran for the exit. Suddenly, Nyxmare blasted at Snowdrop, and she stumbled. The Pegasus filly’s glasses flew off her face and were stepped on by Chrysalis as she ran after them. Snowdrop fell to the ground, blinking sightlessly.

“Someone help!” Snowdrop cried, and Luna turned. She pulled out the moon crystal and leapt over Snowdrop, standing in front of her.

“Moon crystal, shine a light bright as the sun!” she pleaded, and it did, blinding Nyxmare.

“Everyone get in a circle!” Tempest said “Around Snowdrop, quick!”

They did so, Gallus standing between Sandbar and Gilda. Pharynx stood between Thorax and Tempest, Ocellus huddled beside Thorax. Luna stepped forward to stand between Tempest and Sandbar. Ember stood beside Ocellus, fists clenched

“Leave my friends alone!” Tempest shouted as Nyxmare, Chrysalis, the Storm King, and Gruff approached.

“This is between you and me.” Luna added, glaring at Nyxmare.

Tempest took a breath, and her voice began to reverberate around the room. Her horn charged up as she began to create a spell on the spot. There was no time to test and see if it would work. It was a chance she had to take, or else the villains would definitely win.

“The strength of evil is good as none when it stands before pure hearts as one!”

“The strength of evil is good as none when it stands before pure hearts as one!” Pharynx added, lighting up his own horn, Luna and his siblings following his lead.

Though the others didn't have horns, they still wished to help. Gallus took his sister’s claw in one claw and Sandbar’s hoof in the other. Luna held Sandbar and Tempest’s hooves, Pharynx grabbed Tempest’s and Thorax’s, and Thorax took Ocellus’. Ember grabbed Ocellus’ hoof as well. They all chanted Tempest's spell, out of sync but unwavering in courage. Snowdrop stood on shaking legs, followed Luna’s voice, and latched onto her, wrapping her hooves around the alicorn’s neck. Then, finally finding a rhythm, the creatures all shouted together.

“The strength of evil is good as none when it stands before pure hearts as one!” they all yelled

The kids were suddenly lifted into the air, holding each other tight and glowing with light. A bright, rainbow colored light wove up to the crown still on Tempest's head. It suddenly shone brightly, engulfing all the villains. Everyone closed their eyes from the intensity of the light, until it died.

The kids landed, hitting the floor again. They stumbled and looked up. Rising Dawn and Celestia woke up, and the forcefield dropped. Cosmos; The Storm King; was now made of stone. Gruff and Chrysalis were sitting in chains, and Nyxmare Moon was…

“Nebula Star?” Rising Dawn trotted to the mare lying on the ground. “Sister?"

Author's Note

Anyone surprised by that cliffhanger? Come on, Rising Dawn and Nyxmare are supposed to represent what happened to Celestia and Luna in the show. Of course Nyxmare was secretly Rising Dawn's sister.

Tender Moments and Information Gathering

Sandbar stood at one end of the Blitzball field, watching as Gallus took his place a yard or so away. Sandbar held a stopwatch in one hoof and a clipboard was on a table next to him.

“Okay Gallus, we’re gonna do some sprints, you ready?” he called

“Sure…” Gallus called back uncertainly, then suddenly took off running. “Ah! No! Wait!”

“Sweet!” Sandbar called, "You're a natur-huh?"

Gallus ran right past him, a small orange tabby kitten with black streaks to its fur was running after him, meowing and seeming under the impression they were playing a game.

“Huh? Gallus? Gallus!” Sandbar chased after the griffon and kitten.

“Ahh! No! G-get away!” Gallus screamed back at the tiny animal.

Gallus ran into the woods, tearing through the undergrowth and screaming madly. He saw a tree with plenty of clawholds and scrambled up, clinging onto the trunk with his claws and gazing in horror at the little animal. The kitten mewed and pawed at the base of the tree, gazing up at the griffon with curious eyes.

“Gallus?” Sandbar trotted over. "There you are!" he said when he found him, eyes laughing slightly as he saw where the griffon was.

“Sandbar! Sandbar, help!” Gallus shrieked.

“Help? With what?” Sandbar asked

“That thing is a killer!” Gallus pointed a claw at the kitten. “H-He’s gonna chase me down and claw out my heart! It’s a vicious, rabid monster!”

“Woah, woah, woah. Who told you that?” Sandbar asked

“My grandfather, who else?!”

“Gruff?” Sandbar seemed to come to a realization.

“Yeah, he’s a cat expert, a feline whisperer.” Gallus said. Sandbar laughed softly and lifted up the kitten. “Why are you holding him, Sandbar?! He’s gonna attack you!”

“Gallus... you’ve never actually met a cat, have you?”

“No, of course not.” Gallus said

Sandbar smiled softly. “Monarch, meet Gallus. Gallus, this is Monarch. He’s the campus kitten, a stray that the students began feeding and eventually brought in. No one’s taken him to a permanent home, so we've been keeping him here.”

“H-He doesn’t look like a vicious, rabid monster…” Gallus lowered himself down the tree, and Sandbar readjusted his grip on the kitten to help him down.

“Here, why don’t you hold him?” Sandbar suggested, setting Monarch down in Gallus’ foreleg, and the kitten nuzzled up to him. Gallus giggled at the sensation of the small creature cuddling against him.

“Oh... he’s a cute little guy, isn’t he?" Gallus murmured, and Monarch mewed. He chuckled "Yes you are, yes you are.” Gallus crooned, petting him.

“...You must have it pretty rough on the island, huh?” Sandbar asked softly.

“Let’s just say we don’t get a lot of back scratches.” Gallus chuckled, and Sandbar smiled, reaching and ruffling his head feathers.

“Good boy.” Sandbar said then blushed. “I-I mean you’re a good runner, you’re really fast…”

“Oh... thanks.” Gallus blushed as well, then began scratching Monarch behind the ears.

“No problem.” Sandbar stroked a hoof along Monarch’s back, then straightened up. “I’m gonna give you two some space, okay? You two get acquainted, and come find me when you’re done. You know the way back, right?”

“Yeah. Thanks Sandbar.” Gallus said, and they smiled at each other, blushing, before Sandbar headed away, leaving Gallus alone with the little kitten.

Luna stood under the bleachers, blushing as she watched Blueblood gaze into her eyes.

“Is everyone back at the Isle as pretty as you?” he asked

“Well, I like to think I overshadow them all…” Luna said, twirling her mane. “So... how many rooms are in your castle?”

“Oh, too many to count.” Blueblood replied dismissively. “You know, you really nailed that chemistry problem today, you’re gonna have all the nerds after you.”

“I’m not that smart…” Luna blushed

“Of course you are.”

“No, really, I’m not. But I’m really good at sewing, cooking, and cleaning. See this?” Luna pulled out the crystal and showed it to him. “It’s an enchanted moon crystal, if I ask it where something is, it tells me.”

“You’re serious?” Blueblood asked, and Luna nodded. He took the crystal in his magic and held it up to his mouth. “Where’s my phone?” he asked, then shook it when it didn’t react, making Luna giggle.

“It won’t work for you silly, only for someone of the Moon family.”

“Oh... it’s not a problem. My grandmother will probably just buy me a new one.” Blueblood shrugged, passing it back.

“Your grandmother... Platinum…”

“Yeah.”

“Princess…” Luna then snapped out of her daze remembering the story. “Rising Dawn. Hey, I heard her crown is in some museum. Do they always leave it there?”

“I’d really like to talk, but I’m swamped…” Blueblood threw his head back dramatically, then seemed to think of something, brightening. “Unless...”

“What?” Luna asked eagerly.

“Well, if you could knock out my homework along with yours…” Blueblood levitated a tan colored saddlebag to her, and she held out her foreleg to take it. “I could maybe find some time for us to get together, hang out…”

“Okay…” Luna said, lost in his eyes, and he grinned.

“Thanks babe.” he then trotted off.

Luna sighed blissfully and lifted the bag onto her own back, easily supporting the weight of both his bag and her own with her natural earth pony strength. Suddenly, Snowdrop flew up to her from the top of the bleachers.

“I couldn’t help but overhear…” Snowdrop began

“Are you stalking me?” Luna asked

“I... well, they did ask me to help out you and your friends... but technically... yes.” Snowdrop blushed. “The point is, I also have a fascination with Rising Dawn’s crown and the rumored magical power it contains. Another reason I’m looking forward to the coronation. Maybe we could sit next to each other and discuss its attributes?”

“...They use it in the coronation?”

“Well, of course they do. It’s the ceremonial crown they use to represent how the new ruler will agree to protect Equus and it’s citizens-”

“You’re saying they use it in the ceremony and then it goes back into storage?”

“Yes. I’m also... uh... asking you out…” Snowdrop blushed

Luna sighed and looked away. “I’m sorry... mother says fillyfoolers go to Tartarus.”

“Oh…” Snowdrop sighed “So... could we just be friends then?”

The question shook Luna from her thoughts. “Huh? I... um... sure, I have to go.” Luna ran off.

Author's Note

Note: Luna (and myself by extension) means no insult when she refers to lesbians as "fillyfoolers". It was simply the term that she was raised to believe was the correct way to describe them. We'll see more of this later, so I just wanted to point it out before any nasty comments are left. I am Bisexual myself so I really don't mean any insult.

~Melody Song

The End Is Just The Beginning...

“Sister?!” the kids all exclaimed at Rising Dawn's question.

The mare opened her eyes and sat up, gasping. She was an alicorn with a deep purple coat, sapphire blue eyes, and a mane that swirled with purple and blue like a galaxy, or the other astronomical cloud she was named after. Her cutie mark was stars that formed a constellation of a crescent moon.

“Rising Dawn?” she hugged her, and Rising Dawn hugged back. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry!” she sobbed

"M-Mom?" Luna stepped forwards, and the strange alicorn looked to her.

"Luna... my sweet little moon..."

"I... I don't understand..."

The alicorn, Nebula Star, stepped forward, wings fluttering. She looked down at Luna, who looked up at her.

"I grew jealous of Rising Dawn being worshipped for her good deeds, while no one seemed to know I existed. I came to the awful conclusion that I must either be the second best at being good... or the best at being evil."

"B-But I thought-"

"I am your mother Luna. I always have been. I was simply in another form... one that made me see you as a curse, instead of the blessing I knew in my heart you were."

Luna covered her mouth with a hoof, eyes overflowing with tears, then she threw her hooves around Nebula. "M-Mommy..."

After the two embraced, Rising Dawn led Nebula away. She and Luna's reunion was drawing news reporters.

Luna and Celestia looked at each other as their mothers walked away. “Does this... does it make us... cousins?” Luna asked

“I guess so.” Celestia smiled hesitantly. “Sister-cousins?”

“I’ve always wanted an alicorn sister...no offense Tempest.”

“None taken.” Tempest replied, lifting the crown off her head and passing it to Gallus.

Rising Dawn had Nebula Star escorted away by guards, who would take her to Rising Dawn’s castle and welcome her to Equus. Other guards were dealing with the statue of the Storm King, and the chained Gruff and Chrysalis. Gallus walked up to Rising Dawn and held out the crown.

“I think this belongs to you.” he said shyly. Rising Dawn smiled kindly and unstuck the pin from the crown.

“And I believe this,” she fastened it to his suit, “Belongs to you.”

Tempest and the others walked up, Luna and Celestia supporting Snowdrop.

“You have all earned yourselves an A in goodness class, and it seems we have some new students.” Rising Dawn smiled at Thorax, Ocellus, and Gilda.

“You mean we get to stay?!” Ocellus asked, and Rising Dawn nodded

Thorax and Ocellus tackled Pharynx, hugging him. Gilda nudged her brother gently and smiled at him. Rising Dawn then looked to Celestia and beckoned for her to follow her. Celestia hung her head and followed her mother to a corner of the room.

“You were amazing Gallus.” Sandbar said, trotting up to the griffon, his parents behind him.

“You weren’t so bad yourself.” Gallus said, ducking his head and nuzzling up under Sandbar’s chin. Sandbar smiled and hugged him.

“Tempest…” Pharynx trotted up to her, Thorax and Ocellus by his side. “You... you were…”

Tempest pulled him in and kissed him, making Thorax and Ocellus grin. They broke apart and blushed. Then, Tempest looked over at Rising Dawn, who seemed to be sternly talking to her daughter.

“Um, will you excuse me for a minute?” Tempest released Pharynx and trotted to Rising Dawn and Celestia.

“I love you Celestia, and I know you helped to take down the villains, but you are in a major time-out for what you did.” Rising Dawn said sternly, as Tempest approached.

“Um, Rising Dawn?” Tempest asked, and the named alicorn turned. Tempest draped a hoof over Celestia’s shoulders. “Don’t be too hard on Celestia, I’m the one who put all those crazy ideas in her head about being beautiful. And in the end, she earned that mane and cutie mark herself.”

Tempest then looked at Celestia. She offered the alicorn a small smile, and Celestia smiled back.

“You are beautiful, inside and out. Your mom got that right.”

“...I guess I did get pretty lucky in the parent department.” Celestia giggled softly.

“Yeah, you sure did.” Tempest replied, then looked at Rising Dawn. “I don’t know what will happen next, Rising Dawn, but I promise, my friends and I will be there to help protect Equus.”

“Thank you Tempest.” Rising Dawn smiled at her kindly.

Suddenly, Tempest saw a glowing light out of the corner of her eye and turned. Her friends followed her gaze as she used her wavering magic to lift up her dress. A cutie mark had appeared on her flank.

“You were a blank flank too?” Celestia asked

“Why do you think she always wears that cloak?” Luna responded “Oh Tempest, it’s beautiful.”

The mark was two lightning bolts coming down and casting shadows. The shadows formed a cross that resembled spears. Tempest smiled and dropped her dress back around her flank, looking up at Rising Dawn.

“I guess that proves it.”

“Indeed it does.” Rising Dawn laughed slightly

“Well, are we gonna get this party started or what?” Gallus asked Sandbar, as Monarch wandered up to him. Gallus picked up the kitten in his claw.

“Alright then!” Sandbar smiled, and they all laughed.

Out in the courtyard, the real party began. Gallus and Gilda took turns holding Monarch so the griffon boy could dance with Sandbar. Pharynx and Tempest laughed and danced together as well. Celestia and Luna stood together, talking, until Snowdrop, her glasses repaired by Rising Dawn, walked up and asked Luna to dance.

Thorax and Ocellus then joined Celestia, making small talk until Ember walked up.

“Hey.” Ember said. She had ditched the golden armor she'd sported during the coronation, and was wearing a golden dress with a long half-skirt. Thorax looked at her and blushed.

“Hi…”

“You want to dance?” Ember asked him, and Thorax looked over at his sister. Ocellus was nodding encouragingly.

“Okay.” he said, turning back to Ember and taking her claw, letting her pull him onto the dance floor.

“Looks like we have two new ships to set sailing.” Celestia said, taking a sip of her drink.

“What?” Ocellus asked, and Celestia smiled

“I’ll explain later.”

As the group had fun, dancing and laughing, Gallus encountered Yona. He bowed to her, she curtsied back, and they nodded before going their separate ways. Gallus was then pulled along by Sandbar to the center of the dance floor, where they began to waltz, not caring that they were rather bad at it.

“Well, what did you think of the coronation?” Sandbar asked

“It was a lot of action.” Gallus leaned against Sandbar, closing his eyes slightly. “You know what I’m ready to do after all that?”

“Heh, no, what?”

“Sleep.” he yawned, and he felt Sandbar kiss his forehead.

“You know, since I'm King now, you are too, in a sense. If you want to sleep, we can end the party now.”

“Oh, no, everyone’s having fun. I’ll be fine.” Gallus said, smiling

“You sure?”

“Positive. Besides, I want to show Gilda mangoes. You put some out, right?”

“Of course.” Sandbar smiled back. “Shall we, my King?”

“Yes we shall, my King.” Gallus said. He quickly leaned over and nipped Sandbar behind the ear affectionately, making him blush as they headed for Gilda, who was holding a squirming Monarch.

Tempest and Pharynx were dancing together too, and when the song changed to a more energetic number, their friends all joined them. Luna and Snowdrop bounced around together, while Ocellus and Celestia swayed to the beat, smiling. Thorax and Ember faced each other, moving in sync and beaming. Gilda danced beside her brother, who was holding Sandbar’s hoof.

Oh! I was having so much fun I almost forgot… Tempest glanced over her shoulder and grinned knowingly, winking. You didn’t think this was the end of the story, did you?

Author's Note

The end! But not for long! Be on the lookout for a sequel coming soon! Hope you enjoyed! Happy holidays!

~Melody Song