Descendants Of The Isle 3: Rise of the Royal Villainby Melody SongChaptersThe Next FourEn-Gay-gedThe Goat of DoomThe Queen RisesThe First AttackBirthdays and BanditsFamily ProblemsTrucesNew PlansWatch Your FlanksComing TogetherReunionsAll Together AgainA Plan And A TruthA Story To TellStormbreaker's StrikeDecisions and New DifferencesRevivalsBridging the DivideThe Next FourAuthor's Note And so, the final story of this trilogy begins! ~Melody Song The Next Four Equus, it’s beautiful, isn’t it? I’m Tempest, daughter of the Storm King, and this is my home. It wasn’t always. I was born on the Hidden Isle, where all the villains of the United Kingdoms of Equus had been banished, locked up forever. That is, until Prince Sandbar decided their kids, us, should have a chance. So four Villain Creatures, me and my friends, the VCs, came to Equus. Long story short, Sandbar’s the king now, my friend Gallus is his boyfriend, and we are about to head back to the Hidden Isle to pick the next of what will hopefully be a long line of new VCs who get to come to Equus and find their happily ever afters too. “Hey, check it out!” a filly holding a newspaper in wavering magic from her horn ran up to two other fillies. “Sweet Rising Dawn! It’s-” one of her friends began “VC Day!” all three squealed “I hope I get picked!” another filly exclaimed, little wings buzzing. Elsewhere on the Hidden Isle, four familiar creatures strode through the streets. Two leapt between the buildings in a parkour like fashion. Another strutted below them while the fourth flew above them. As they walked, catching others’ attention, they began to sing. “From each and every corner time to take the test! All the kids around, you’re some of the best! Hit the streets, it’s your time, turn up, it’s your chance Time to get on your hooves no time for a second glance!” The group spread out, and the broken horned unicorn in a black cloak, Tempest, walked beside the changeling Pharynx, who was in a black leather jacket. Luna, the blue alicorn, flew past them, wearing a long blue dress, and the griffon Gallus headed to a building marked with the word Orphanage on it, tweaking his gold and blue jacket in pride. Tempest and Pharynx began singing together, smirking. “Anyone wants to be like us?” Gallus flew through the orphanage, singing as he pulled blankets off of some of the foals to wake them. “All the kids from Equus know what's up!” Luna strutted into the hair salon, gesturing for a dragon and griffon, Smolder and Gabby, to come over. They did, hugging her. She smiled and hugged back, singing. “Your life will change today, I promise it's the day!” The group continued on, Smolder and Gabby following Luna. They continued to sing. “Follow after us, you know we paved the way!” Tempest and Luna joined up again, smiling at the creatures crowding the streets. Pharynx and Gallus joined them. “Everyone come chase your dreams, It’s the time to show your stuff! Everyone’s gonna get a chance They said if you were born here you’re vile- Well, it’s good to be vile! We’re proof of that, Used to be hidden now we’re on every map! Used to steal but now we’re taking it back! And remember it's- Vile!” They ran down the streets, gathering a crowd of children. “You’ve got this, raise your hooves high Know your pride! It’s good to be vile!” Tempest stopped in an alleyway, lifting a bit out from inside her cloak and tossing it down the alley. A lion’s paw reached out and caught it, followed by the creature the paw belonged to. A draconequus boy named Discord, who gave the filly a fanged grin. She beckoned for him to follow her, chuckling. Tempest and Luna joined up together with their groups, dancing and singing. “I wanna see you coming after us! Wanna see you strutting what you got! Show us your pride, show us your shout! We’re from the Hidden Isle that's what it's all about! We’re here to celebrate this day! We know you're up for it, let's get it going! You don't need a reminder! There’s more to come, it’s gonna be the best! Take a bow, that's all we ask! You're from the Isle, don’t hide your past!” From the different parts of the Isle, all four sang as one. “It’s good to be vile! We’re proof of that, Used to be hidden now we’re on every map Used to steal but now we’re taking it back And remember it's- Vile! You’ve got this, raise your hooves high! Know your pride! It’s good to be Vile!” Gallus and Pharynx flew down a street, weaving through the air together, rapping. “This is our natural style, you know it's always been this way! ‘Cause you can take a creature far from home but you can't take home away! If you want to get across well here's a chance! Scream it loud all around, don't ignore it at first glance! Time's running out so hurry up, make haste! The Isle isn't our only space!” A red dragon named Garble, who was Smolder’s brother, came dashing out and bumped claws with Gallus, banging his shoulder against Pharynx’s, who smirked at him. “So when I say ‘Villain’ you say ‘Creatures’! Villain! Creatures! Villain! Creatures!” They chanted, the entire group and the crowd they’d gathered meeting up in the space just in front of the barrier. Pharynx, Tempest, Gallus, and Luna gathered on a balcony overhead, continuing to lead the chant. “When I say ‘all the’ you say ‘way’! All the-! Way! All the-! Way! When I say ‘Villain’ you say ‘Creatures’! Villain! Creatures! Villain! Creatures! All the Way! It’s good to be vile! We’re proof of that, Used to be hidden now we’re on every map Used to steal but now we’re taking it back And remember it's- Vile! You’ve got this, raise your hooves high! Know your pride! It’s good to be Vile!” The group finished, laughing and smiling at the crowd before them. Tempest stepped to the front of the group. “Who wants to go? You?” she asked, hearing a resounding cheer. “Oh, I can’t believe this day has finally come!” Luna cried, smiling around at the crowd. “I really wish we could take all of you, we all do! And someday very soon, hopefully we can!” “And in the meantime, we’re going to be here so often, you’re going to be sick of us.” Gallus added, laughing “So sick of us.” Luna added, then lifted a scroll out of her dress pocket. “Now, drumroll please?” The creatures below stomped their hooves in anticipation, and Luna unrolled the scroll, as the other three withdrew identical ones out from pockets in their own outfits. Luna smiled and spoke. “First, I would like to begin with… the daughter of the Griff-Gang, my sweet sweet friend, my Gabby!” Gabby squealed and took off, flying to the balcony to give her sister-figure a big hug. Gallus unfurled his own scroll. He flew down to one of the staircases leading up to the balcony before reading it. “Next up, the daughter of Garnet and Fume, Smolder!” Gallus called, and Smolder raced up to him. “And of course,” Pharynx paused to fly down the second staircase leading to the balcony, standing at the bottom, then unrolled his scroll, smirking at the crowd. “No way in Tartarus we’re splitting up siblings, so get over here Garble!” Garble’s eyes widened, and he walked over, grinning. Tempest, at last, unrolled her own scroll. “And finally, we all agreed that this creature could use a little bit of Rising Dawn’s Remedial Goodness Class, so give it up for Diataro’s son, Discord!” Discord grinned as well, rushing up to join Tempest, Luna, and Gabby on the balcony. Pharynx, Gallus, Smolder, and Garble joined them. “Alright, we will be back for you guys next week.” Gallus said. “Yeah, gives you time to pack your stuff-yes, Discord, your own stuff, not stolen stuff.” Pharynx added, and he groaned. “Because where are you going?” Luna prompted, and they all beamed. “Equus!” En-Gay-gedTempest sighed, shifting uneasily in her position on one of the turrets of Equus Prep, raising a pair of binoculars to her eyes. She began to scan the horizon, not noticing Pharynx walk up behind her. “Not a single feather in sight…” she murmured, then yelped and blushed as Pharynx slipped his hooves around her neck. “Temp, if Spitfire was going to do something she’d have done it by now.” he told her. “Phar, you and I both know that isn’t true. We know exactly how villains think.” Tempest grunted and turned back to the horizon, gazing out over the land and sea beyond. “Frankly, I don’t trust Spitfire as far as I can throw her.” “That is pretty far.” Pharynx admitted, chuckling, and Tempest gave him a slight smile in response, then went back to stoicness. “She’s going to wait until our defenses are down and strike. I wish I had time to use my Storm Bond and do a once-over from the sky, I can see farther.” Tempest said, referring to the storm powers she’d discovered during the Cotillion. Luna and Gallus had taken to calling the form ‘Storm Breaker’ “You can’t be everywhere at once Temp.” Pharynx gave her a nuzzle. “But you know I’ve got your back, always. Now come on, Sandbar’s waiting and Luna’s getting Gallus as we speak.” “Hold it.” Tempest stopped him with a hoof on his shoulder. “You’re convincing Sandbar to send out more guards.” “I’m his Head of Defense, I don’t think I need to do much convincing, I can just make him do it.” Pharynx chuckled, taking her hoof. “Don’t worry, I’ll set up more patrols, and you can help me supervise them. Now breathe.” Tempest took a breath, then smiled softly, taking Pharynx’s hoof. “Okay, I’m ready.” Pharynx smiled at her, then led her down the turret, where they passed by Luna and Gallus, who was cradling Monarch in one claw. The cat mewed happily, tail flicking-the spell accidentally placed on him long having worn off. Luna smiled and winked at them, and they winked back. All the royals of Equus and the students of Equus Prep were gathered out on the front lawn. Rising Dawn stood before them on a podium, Celestia at her side, adjusting a microphone for her. Tempest and Pharynx made their way into the crowd, Luna joining them after leading Gallus up to the podium. “Hey guys.” Gilda said, coming up to them, now holding Monarch for Gallus. Ember, Snowdrop, Thorax, and Ocellus were behind her. “Hey Gilds.” Tempest greeted. “Can you believe what Sand’s going to-” Ocellus began, only for Luna to quickly cover her mouth with a wing, shushing her. “O-Oh, right, sorry.” “It’s okay, but hush, I think it’s starting.” Luna said, and they all looked to the podium. Sandbar was standing with his parents, nervously adjusting his button-up shirt. Tempest smirked slightly, sharing knowing grins with the others. Then, as Celestia moved away from the podium, Sandbar strode over, joining Gallus and Rising Dawn. “Testing, testing, one-two, one-two, can everycreature hear me? Okay! Sandbar?” “Thank you, Rising Dawn.” Sandbar smiled at her graciously, then stepped up to the microphone. “Hello Equus! I would like to thank you all for coming to welcome our new arrivals from the Isle. they’ll be here soon.” “It’s not like we had much of a choice though, is it?” Tempest heard a voice rumble behind her, and she turned her head slightly. Tempest was surprised to see Prince Rutherford standing beside Yona, who looked very different. The young yak was now wearing a pale pink dress, some light makeup, her hair had ribbons and light blue and pink streaks in it, and her horns had a couple gold rings on them. Tempest decided to ignore the two for now and turned back to Sandbar. “It worked out pretty well for the first four-” Sandbar was saying. “Yeah, especially for you!” Blueblood called from somewhere within the crowd, causing some soft laughter. Sandbar himself chuckled and reached to take Gallus’ claw, making him blush. “Really funny.” Yona spat, glaring at Sandbar and Gallus. “Gallus…” Sandbar turned to the griffon, who was blushing. “This is the exact spot where we first met, not too long ago. And yet I feel like I’ve spent my entire life with you. But… did I mention, I’ve fallen for you?” Gallus giggled softly and looked at Sandbar. He began singing softly, facing the griffon, taking his claw. “I met this griff, he rocked my world Like it ain’t never been rocked Now I’m living just for him and I’m not gonna stop Never thought that it could happen to a colt like me But look what you’ve done, you’ve got me…” Sandbar knelt down, and Gallus’ eyes went wide as he reached into his front shirt pocket. “Down on one knee…” “S-Sandy…” Gallus covered his beak with a claw, eyes wide in shock as Sandbar pulled out a small velvet box, smiling at him. “Gally, it’s you and me. You and me forever.” Sandbar opened the box, revealing a silver ring with a sky blue gem set in the middle. “Will you marry me? Will you be my King?” “No!” Yona screeched, which was drowned out by a chorus of “awws” as Gallus threw himself onto Sandbar, nearly knocking the pony off his hooves. “Yes!!” he shouted out, making the others cheer. “Makes our stargazing seem tame, doesn’t it?” Snowdrop commented to Luna, who turned to her. “I love yo-the stars.” Luna blurted out, changing tactics midsentence, and Snowdrop smiled. “Me too.” “Yeah…” Luna looked away, sighing, but still smiled as she and her friends rushed over to Gallus and Sandbar as the pony slid the ring onto the blue and yellow griffon’s claw. “A lifetime of plans, gone.” Prince Rutherford turned to Yona, glaring at her. “Our family status, gone. You were supposed to be his Queen, Yona, and you let him slip through your hooves. Yaks never fail, and you have.” “Don’t you think I feel bad enough already, dad?” Yona muttered, as a filly passed by. “Sandbar and Gallus are amazing! I can’t wait for Gallus to be his King!” “You’d really rather have a villain on the throne than me? What’s wrong with you creatures? What’s wrong with everycreature?!” Yona exclaimed “I’m engaged guys!” Sandbar exclaimed, and Pharynx laughed, patting him on the back. “Wait, did you guys know?!” Gallus asked, and Ember, Thorax, Ocellus, and Snowdrop snickered mischievously. “Everything.” Luna filled him in, fluffing her wings. “You are gonna rock that crown baby bro!” Gilda said, as Luna gently pushed her aside, teleporting a clipboard to herself. “Okay, I’ve already got like a hundred sketches of your outfit-do you mind it having a little white and gold? Oh, and… Shell Scallop’s already planned the engagement party for next week!” Gallus’ eyes went wide and he laughed. “Then I guess it’s really good that I said yes!” Shell Scallop and Sea Kelp walked over, and Gallus hugged them. Shell Scallop hugged back and Sea Kelp patted him on the back. “I’m getting another son.” Shell Scallop beamed, as Sandbar’s little sister stared at the ring on Gallus’ claw. “Congratulations, son.” Sea Kelp told Sandbar, who chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck. “Thanks dad.” “I love you guys.” Gallus told Shell Scallop, who hugged him tight. “Oh, we love you too!” “So happy for both of you.” Rising Dawn told Sandbar, who smiled. “Thank you again, Rising Dawn, for letting me do this. I think he liked it.” Sandbar told her. “Oh he definitely did. I hear Celestia’s going to be helping her cousin prepare your outfits, too.” Rising Dawn smiled. “I can’t wait to see what they come up with.” A little ways away, Gallus collected Monarch from Gilda, holding him gently in the claw his ring was now on. Tempest and Pharynx approached him, grinning. “Heheh, all bow to his Royal Majesty!” Tempest laughed, bowing mockingly to Gallus. Pharynx followed her lead. “Ah, yes, all bow to His Royal Blueness!” Pharynx teased, and Gallus took on a haughty expression, shifting his hold on the kitten. “Silence, you annoying peasants!” “As you wish, my liege!” “Your Royal Crankiness.” Gallus glared at them good-naturedly before walking off towards Ocellus and Luna, who were showing Gilda something that was no doubt outfit designs. Tempest chuckled and followed them. Pharynx watched her go, then took a breath before walking over to Sandbar. “Hey, Sand, can I borrow you for a sec?” “Oh, sure Phar.” Sandbar said, letting the changeling lead him a little ways away from the others. “What’s up?” “W-Well… uh… this is.” Pharynx took a breath and reached into his leather jacket with his magic, pulling out a golden ring with a violet purple amethyst resting in the center. Sandbar’s eyes widened. “No… way…” Pharynx nodded, quickly slipping the ring back into his jacket. “I’ve been waiting for the right time…” “You need help?” Sandbar asked, and Pharynx shook his head. “No, no, I-I think I can handle it, I just… could you maybe…” “What? Be your best colt?” “What? No!” Pharynx rolled his eyes. “I already asked Thorax.” “Oh, okay. So why are you telling me?” “I was wondering if you could… find a way to get the others out of the room when I give you a signal. So I can ask Temp in private. I know she’d like that better.” “Oh, sure. What’s the signal?” Sandbar asked “You’ll know it when you see it.” Pharynx said unconcernedly, looking at Tempest. “I just hope she says yes.” “Of course she will, she loves you.” Sandbar told him reassuringly, and Pharynx smiled. “Thanks Sand.” “No problem.” As the two talked, Yona strode up to Gallus, glaring at him. “Congratulations. You won him fair and square. Oh wait, no you didn’t. You spelled him to attempt to enslave all of Equus. Touching story to share with the grandkids. If you have any.” Gallus glared right back at her as his sister and Tempest stepped forward, also glaring at the yak. Before either side could say anything else, Sandbar walked up, taking Gallus’ claw. “Alright, let’s do this. You ready?” Gallus nodded, looking at Yona smugly. “Speaking of kids, we have some waiting on us now, so if you’ll excuse us…” With that, Tempest, Pharynx, Luna, Gallus, and Sandbar headed towards the carriage that would take them across the ocean to the Hidden Isle. The Goat of Doom“Alright, is everyone ready?” Tempest asked, watching the four chosen kids being seen off by their parents. They were standing in the street, waiting for the kids so they could drive back to the barrier and lower it to cross the magic bridge. “You two have everything?” Garnet, Smolder and Garble’s mother, asked as Gabby placed her things in the storage compartment of the carriage. “Yes mom.” Garble said, before going to step into the carriage. “Smolder?” “Yeah, I’ve got everything.” Smolder said. “Are you sure?” Garnet raised a brow, pulling a purple glue gun out from behind her back. “My glue gun!” Smolder took it gratefully, hugging her mother before entering the carriage. Discord tossed his bag into the storage compartment, then walked into the carriage. Tempest and Pharynx got into the front of the carriage, waving at the crowd that had come to see the four kids off. “Alright, let’s do this.” Sandbar said, helping Gallus into the carriage. They then started off towards the barrier, not noticing a hooded figure following their carriage. Luna was eagerly chatting with Gabby and Smolder. “So, as soon as we get to Equus, you have to try ice cream!” “And go swimming?” Smolder asked “I can take you to the Enchanted Lake near the school.” Luna said instantly, and Gabby squealed. “I can’t believe we get to stay with you in your very own castle!” “Oh, it’s just a little starter castle for mom and I. Can’t live at Auntie Rising Dawn’s castle forever. I’m mainly using it for my fashion business so I can jump start it.” Luna shrugged. “Oh, and of course you two can put your own designs into the new line I’m designing!” “Seriously?! Yes!” Smolder pumped a fist, and Gabby squealed again. “Here, try it.” Gallus tossed a chocolate over to Garble. “Trust me on this.” Garble shrugged and bit into it, then his eyes widened and he grabbed for more. Gallus chuckled, then turned his attention back to Sandbar, who was watching Discord shuffle a deck of Tarot cards. He smiled and slid them all up one arm, flipped them over with a whisk of his eagle talon, before gathering them all again and plucking the first card off the top of the deck. “Ah, you are going to be a wise and brave king.” Discord said, holding it up to Sandbar to reveal a crown with prongs strangely resembling his own antler and goat horn. “Heh, he already is.” Gallus said, and Sandbar blushed, nuzzling up to him. “The cards don’t lie.” Discord chuckled, placing the cards back in his bag, then holding out his lion's paw. Sandbar chuckled and set a couple bits in his paw, then continued snuggling up to Gallus. Discord grinned and stuffed the bits in his bag. The crowd back at Equus watched through a screen that had been set up to play a spell Rising Dawn was casting. Prince Rutherford nudged Yona gently as the car passed through the barrier and onto the bridge the magic began to create. “The only reason they should be opening that barrier is to put Spitfire back in, not let more villains out.” he uttered. Then, a yellow bolt of energy fired at the carriage as a hoof covered in shaggy blue fur reached through the barrier. The watching crowd screamed in terror as the hooded figure forced a familiar looking bell through the barrier. The hood fell, revealing a ram with twisted horns. The carriage stopped and the four VCs, along with Sandbar, jumped out. “It’s Grogar!” Luna exclaimed “He must be trying to escape-no, stay there!” Pharynx commanded as the four new kids tried to join them. The group obeyed, even Garble and Discord. Pharynx shut the door to keep them inside and safe. “I am a god! I don’t belong here, I created this world!” Grogar bellowed, as his bell began to glow and vibrate. Gallus, Sandbar, and Pharynx rushed forwards, but three bolts of magic from the bell knocked them down. “No!” Tempest shot a blast of lightning into the clouds. “Everyone stay back!” With that, a bolt of lightning shot down from the clouds, sending Tempest into her Storm-Breaker form. Tempest leapt at Grogar, her electricity made wings spreading and horn sparking as she gathered lightning into the broken stub, preparing to blast the father of monsters. But Grogar aimed his bell at her, and suddenly she was enveloped in it’s yellow glow. Tempest howled in pain and struggled, electric blue light being forced out of her chest and heading for the bell. Grogar laughed in triumph. Pharynx and Gallus flew to Tempest, who transformed back into her normal form, collapsing into Pharynx’s hooves. Sandbar rushed up and pulled Gallus back as Grogar laughed. “It’s the kids!” Shell Scallop exclaimed as they saw Gallus and Pharynx rushing to help Tempest. “Nocreature panic!” Rising Dawn called, waving her wings for silence. Yona burst forward, pointing at the image as Tempest collapsed. “There are your precious heroes! They can’t even protect us!” “Okay, everycreature panic!” Celestia exclaimed, and her mother did her best to calm everyone, but they were already all running. “Alright, alright, run! In an orderly fashion!” Rising Dawn commanded “Come on Temp, please…” Pharynx said, clutching her. She struggled up slightly, igniting her horn. “Everyone get back!” Tempest shouted, and they all scrambled away from her. Tempest gritted her teeth and channeled a strong surge of energy into her horn. A large bolt of energy shot out of her horn and blasted Grogar’s hoof, causing him and the bell to tumble back through the barrier, allowing it to close. Tempest then staggered, getting onto all fours again. “Temp!” Luna raced over, Pharynx behind her. “Are you okay?” “N-No…” Tempest sucked in a breath, wincing. “H-He was trying t-to drain my magic, with the Bell… I-I could feel my powers slipping away…” “You’re safe Temp. He’s back where he belongs.” Pharynx reassured her, kissing her cheek. “Yeah, for now.” Tempest said, looking at the barrier. “We should go.” Luna advised. “Yeah, okay.” Tempest sighed, and they got back into the carriage, checking on the others before continuing along the magical bridge, back to Equus. The Queen RisesYona sat in her room at the school, pouring over an old diary, particularly entries where she wrote about her relationship with Sandbar. “You were supposed to be his Queen, Yona, and you let him slip through your hooves. Yaks never fail, and you have.” Her father’s words echoed in her mind painfully. Yona closed the diary and stood up, crying. She began to sing softly. “I’m so tired of all this pretending What happened to having a happy ending? I’ve followed all the rules I’ve drawn inside the lines I didn’t ask for anything that wasn’t already mine I waited, patient, for what I thought would be my time But when it came, he called his name.” Yona stomped a hoof on the ground, gritting her teeth. “And now I can’t stop this overwhelming pain I can feel it deep within my veins It’s burning itself into my brain My thoughts have been running in circles like a train A perfect painted portrait with a shattered frame And I know exactly who’s to blame!” Yona grabbed one of the fire pokers from the fireplace in her room and stared at it, before pacing around her room. “I never once thought I could be malicious I just wanted to be his queen But there’s not an in-between! If I can’t have that, I will rule the dark and bad! The devil’s sitting on my shoulder where angles used to sing And he’s saying I’m the Queen!” Yona paused, then left the room. Soon enough, she was walking into The Museum of Equus History. Yona entered the room, the guard asleep, and with a few quick taps on the keyboard of the security computer, the cameras were off. With that, Yona walked into an exhibit she had visited many times before. The Crown of the Queen of Auradon. Shell Scallop stored it there when it wasn’t being worn, and it had been moved there permanently after she and her husband officially passed the kingdom to Sandbar. “Being nice was a trivial pastime I’ve been hurt for the final time I’m never going to let someone else take advantage of me The anger’s burned itself into my skin, don’t you see? My blood runs hotter than a fiery phoenix Nocreature will ever come close to me They’ll bow down to this evil Queen Their nightmares are my wildest dreams Wait until they fall to their knees at my wicked schemes.” With that, Yona struck the glass containing the Queen’s crown with the fire poker, shattering it. She smirked and tossed away the fire poker, then reached in, taking the crown in her hooves and lifting it up, laying it gently on her head. “I never once thought of myself as malicious I just wanted to be his Queen But there’s not an in-between! If I can’t have that, I will rule the dark and the bad! The devil’s sitting on my shoulder where the angles used to sing! And he’s saying I’m the Queen of the Malicious!” As Yona strutted around, wearing the crown, she heard something calling her name. Her song trailed off briefly as she turned to find the source. The next exhibit over. The Storm King’s staff. “The Queen of the Malicious…” Yona headed for the staff, staring at it. “Something magical is pulling me like a magnet My body is moving, I’m unsure why I’m headed To this, my senses have left me and I’m defenseless,” Yona knocked the helmet of Nyxmare Moon off a pedestal by the staff, placing the Queen’s crown on top of it. She then turned to the staff. “Darkness surrounds me, it promises vengeance! And the price I’m willing to pay, it’s expensive You know there’s nothing to lose when you’re lonely and friendless!” Yona grabbed the crown again, putting it on. “Now my only interest is showing that griffon That I am malicious and my reign shall be eternal!” With that, Yona grabbed onto the Storm King’s staff. In a flash of blue magic, she was transformed. The ribbons and dyed parts of her hair were darker, now deep blue and purple. The gold rings on her horns had turned stormcloud silver gray, and her dress had turned to dark pink with gray specks and a dark black cape of crow feathers. She grinned and yanked the staff from it’s holder. “I will get what I deserve! I will rule the world! Time for them to set back and learn That at last it’s my turn! If they want a villain on their throne I’ll be one like they’ve never known! I’ll let them see what it truly means! Now that I am this, I will rule over the dark and the bad! The devil’s sitting on my shoulder where angels used to sing He’s calling me the Queen of the Malicious! The Queen of the Malicious! Time to get what I deserve!” With that, Yona blasted the lights with the staff, causing them to short circuit. She was left in the dark, a wicked smile on her face. “We all know why we’re here.” Sea Kelp announced to the creatures before him. Rising Dawn, Shell Scallop, his son Sandbar, and Gallus. “The citizens are in a panic about Grogar. He almost got out.” “And who knows what he would have done if he had escaped.” Rising Dawn added. “We can’t risk having another villain on the loose.” Sea Kelp finished. Sandbar stepped forwards. “Dad…” he began, but Gallus held him back, looking at the adults. “We know how bad this is. Tempest the most, she believes it’s her fault that he nearly escaped, because she feels it’s her duty to protect Equus. It is what her cutie mark stands for. She feels she owes Equus her life.” “But she does protect Equus.” Sandbar said “I know Sandy. But Tempest won’t rest until she’s certain.” Gallus explained. Sea Kelp cleared his throat, drawing their attention to him. “Boys, every time we open the barrier, we’re exposed to more danger. The Storm King. Spitfire. Grogar.” As the boys opened their mouths to object, an alert went off on Sandbar’s phone. He opened it, read the message, then looked up. “The Storm King’s Scepter and the Queen’s crown have been stolen.” he reported, and Gallus’ eyes widened slightly. “Spitfire.” Sea Kelp immediately said “We don’t know that.” Gallus told him, Sandbar nodding agreement. “Look, I know villains, Spitfire would never do something that obvious, she’s a thinker.” “Regardless of who took them, when the citizens hear of this they’ll be terrified to even leave their homes. What will we tell them?” Shell Scallop put in. “Boys… what do we do? We need to keep evil out of Equus.” Sandbar seemed nervous, so Gallus stepped forwards. He took a breath, then spoke. “I think… the only way we can truly guarantee everycreature’s safety… is that to ensure there’s no more going in and out. We have to close the barrier. Forever.” “Wait, what? No, Gally-” Sandbar began, and Gallus took his hoof, looking him in the eye. “Sandy, believe me, taking away your dream… our dream, is the last thing I want to do. It was beautiful, and one of the many reasons I love you. But as the Kings, what is our duty?” “...To protect Equus… but Gallus… all those kids… are you really prepared to tell them? And tell your friends?” “...It wasn’t my idea…” Gallus sighed. “Tempest has always been a tactical thinker. She predicted the conversation would turn to the barrier at one point, and… she made me promise I’d bring this up.” “You didn’t have to listen.” “Sandy, she made me use the StarBlight Swear.” Gallus told him, and he sighed, nodding. “The what?” Rising Dawn questioned, and Gallus shuddered slightly. “A-All I can tell you is… it was created because of the reason Tempest lost her horn.” Gallus looked almost guilty as he said it, and the others knew not to press any further. “Anyway… Tempest is prepared for it. But I’m not. And I don’t want to do it, I know what it would mean. I just think we have no other choice…” Sandbar sighed, then nodded. “Alright Gally. I trust you, and I trust Tempest’s judgement.” “So it’s agreed.” Sea Kelp said, and the group nodded solemnly. The First Attack“So who else knows? About the crown and the staff, I mean.” Luna asked, as Tempest paced in front of her. They were in Luna’s home. “No one besides Sandbar, his parents, Gallus, and Rising Dawn. And now you and me.” Tempest explained. “Understandable, of course, creatures are scared enough as is, Pharynx was just telling me about the new security measures they’re taking.” “Do you think it’ll delay bringing over more VCs?” “I…” Tempest stopped. “...Gallus said they’re… talking about closing the barrier for good.” “But he said no, right? I mean, what could they be thinking? The four of us are living the dream and we finally get to share that. Nothing could be more important than that.” “Y-Yeah, I know.” Tempest bit her lip, sitting down. “I mean, there’s security. And peace of mind for everyone in Equus.” “T, is that seriously what they’re thinking? That no one will ever go in or out of the Isle ever again?” Luna stood and began pacing. “That Phar, Gallus, Gilda, Thorax, Ocellus-all of them never get to go back and see their parents? And what about the new kids? We promised they could go back and visit whenever they wanted!” “I know that, Lu.” “Temp… I am so glad Gallus is going to make you his advisor…” Luna hugged her friend, startling her. “You’ll get to hear about these conversations and help him stand up for the VCs.” “Y-Yeah…” “Thanks for telling me this. You know you can always confide in me.” Luna said, and Tempest hugged her back at last. “Yeah, I know.” “Hey, there you two are.” Pharynx said as Thorax and Ocellus rushed into the kitchen of Luna’s house. They’d all been bunking there for the summer. “Where have you been?” “Stayed up late reading.” Ocellus said, as Thorax stuffed some towels into a bag. “Getting some beach towels.” Thorax explained, grinning at his brother in excitement. “You think Emmie will like the cake we made for her?” “She better like it, I swear, I’m still picking frosting out of my carapace.” Pharynx muttered, as he and Ocellus piled sandwiches and chips into a picnic basket. “Never cooking with you two again.” “Still, I bet she’ll-” Thorax walked over to the box they’d put the specially made gemstone cake in and froze. There was a chunk missing from the bottom corner. “Hey! Who got into Ember’s cake?!” “Oh come on!” Pharynx exclaimed, as he and Ocellus walked over to inspect the damage. Outside, Smolder and Discord were sitting together, each eating a slice of cake. Smolder moaned softly, scraping the leftover crumbs off her plate. “So good!” “Ah, yes, and the lack of dirt is especially good!” Discord added, grabbing a gem from the cake and eating it in one bite. “And the lack of flies.” Smolder added, and Discord blinked, then took another bite and nodded. “Here, want some of mine?” Discord suggested, showing her how he still had half a slice. Smolder nodded eagerly and cut some with her fork. As the two sugar thieves chowed down on the gem cake, Tempest stepped outside, levitating a gift she’d gotten for Ember in her magic. As she walked down the path leading away from Luna’s home, a bolt of lightning struck the ground, causing a cloud of dust to rise. When it cleared, Yona was strutting towards her. “Oh good, I was hoping you were here.” Yona chuckled “What are you doing with the crown and the staff?” Tempest snarled. “Oh, I wanted them, so I took them.” Yona said, grinning. “You of all creatures should understand that.” “Wait, don’t!” Tempest shouted, drawing attention from the others inside. “You don’t know how to use that, it’s dangerous!” “Don’t you like spells, Tempest?” Yona asked, grinning. Gallus and Luna raced out, Pharynx behind them with Monarch padding along at the rear. “Yona, put that down, it’s not a toy.” Tempest growled. “I know, I want to be dangerous!” Yona pointed it at her, then realized Gallus was there and trotted to him. “My life was perfect, until you stole it, Gallus. Equus turned its back on me. It’s time for some payback.” “Yona, what-no!” Tempest shoved Gallus out of the way, getting blasted with the staff. They shrieked, and the smoke cleared to reveal Tempest had changed into an old mare, her cloak old and worn, just as Thorax and Ocellus ran out. “You think Equus will love you now, you old hag?” Yona laughed. “You’ll pay the price for what you did, I’m coming for all of you! So long suckers!” With that, Yona had vanished in another lightning bolt and cloud of fog. Pharynx went to Tempest, only to yelp in surprise. “Uh, isn’t there a spell to reverse that?” Gallus asked. “You’re lucky it didn’t happen to you.” Tempest said, looking at herself. “No spell can reverse the magic of my father’s staff.” “Oh boy…” Discord had walked over. Tempest shook her head. “Forget about me. Yona’s out for revenge, which means all of Equus is in danger.” “And Sea Kelp thought it was Spitfire.” Gallus muttered to himself. “Isn’t there anything more powerful than the staff?” Pharynx asked “One thing… the thing that created it…” Tempest hesitated. “...Grogar’s bell.” “Well that’s just great.” Pharynx muttered. “He’s not just going to hoof it over.” “And it’s not like we know where his lair is anyway.” Thorax added. “I do.” Discord said, biting a gem in half. “I run errands for him. I have a key at my dad’s.” “That’s our in.” Tempest said, pointing at Discord. “You’re coming with us.” “Aw, and I just got here.” Discord groaned. “Hey, guys?” Smolder, Garble, and Gabby walked out, then cried out when they saw Tempest. “Gabby, Smolder, Garble, stay here and look out for each other, we’ll be fine, go inside.” Luna told them. “I’m staying too.” Ocellus flew over and locked her hooves around Smolder’s neck, kissing her cheek. “I’m not leaving Smoldie again.” “Alright then, that leaves just one sibling to look out for, makes my job easier.” Pharynx thumped Thorax on the back, and he yelped. “If you guys see Gilda, get her inside with you.” Gallus said, scooping up Monarch and passing him to Gabby as he, Thorax, and Pharynx flew around back to get their things. Tempest looked over at Luna. “Lu, how bad is it?” Luna looked at Tempest, scrutinizing her for a moment. “Nothing a little makeup and a nice outfit can fix. Come on.” “Fine, but no makeup.” “Aw, come on!” “Are you sure this will work?” Thorax asked nervously as they stood on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the Hidden Isle in the distance. “Positive. It’s how I got across the last time.” Tempest stepped forward, igniting her horn and forcing it to work. “We stand here, proud and fair. We can go anywhere.” Magic sparked around their hooves, and Tempest stepped out onto thin air, the magic holding her up. The others, seeing her success, charged after her. As they ran, Thorax’s phone sounded an alert, and he levitated it over in his magic. “Oh no, Ember’s party! We’re gonna be late!” “Thorax, don’t you see this is clearly more important?!” Pharynx called back, and Thorax sighed, tucking his phone away and following the others. Birthdays and BanditsAuthor's Note Forgot to publish this yesterday, sorry! Birthdays and Bandits Ember stood by the Enchanted Lake, surrounded by party decorations and guests from the school, Celestia at her side. But she was glancing around nervously. Blueblood trotted up, messing around with a water gun. “Huh, looks like Thorax forgot it was your birthday.” he remarked “He probably just took the wrong trail, he’s a little forgetful.” Ember said. “O-Or, you know, he’s never been to a birthday party before!” “Or maybe he forgot.” Blueblood said, and Celestia whacked him upside the head with her clipboard. “Hey! You never know!” Ember rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, then smirked. “Oh, Blueblood, look, there’s creatures over there taking selfies.” “Oh, yes! Hey, wait for me!” Blueblood shoved his water gun at Ember and dashed off. Ember and Celestia giggled and high hoofed/clawed. As Blueblood scrambled to join the creatures taking selfies, a familiar yak strode up to the party, clutching the Storm King’s staff. Ember and Celestia looked over and their eyes widened. “Anybody save me some guacamole?” Yona asked, receiving silence. “No? Huh. Looks like somecreature also forgot to invite me.” Celestia and Ember looked at each other in confusion. Yona then chuckled, adjusting the crown on her head and picking up a cupcake. “Well, don’t expect Tempest, she’s… not feeling herself.” Yona stomped the cupcake into the ground. “Does that make you sad? Does it just ruin everything? You mindless little drones!” Ember’s eyes widened, and Celestia stepped closer to her as she fanned out her wings. “How could you forget what she and her little crew did to us?! How could you forget you were supposed to have me as the Queen?!” “Hey! Timeout!” Blueblood raced over, grinning at Yona nervously. “First off, love the new look, I love the feathers. Second, before you do whatever you’re going to do… would you like a… loyal boyfriend by your side? Partner in crime? Sidekick? Or maybe just a lackey to do your bidding?” Yona contemplated him for a bit. “...Yes, you can be useful. Fine, stand behind me.” Blueblood instantly obeyed, and Yona turned to Ember and Celestia, who were still standing by the water. “Equus just loves to forget so much… they’ll love this.” Yona chuckled and glared at the two girls. She then began to sing softly, the staff sparking. “Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you…” As Yona sang, fog enveloped the crowd, and everyone except Blueblood suddenly fainted, yawning and going to sleep. Ember and Celestia gasped in shock, backing up. “Happy birthday to Ember~ Happy birthday, to… you…” Yona finished as the fog crept nearer to the two girls. “What do we do?” Ember hissed “Uh…” Celestia then looked at the water. “The Enchanted Lake! Come on!” Without a warning, Celestia grabbed Ember’s claw and dragged her into the water. The two waded in, then took deep breaths and dove underneath the surface. Yona just chuckled. “Sweet dreams.” Yona laughed wickedly, and she and Blueblood were gone. Celestia and Ember held their breaths as long as they could, then resurfaced, taking big gulps of the air. The spell was fading from the air around them. “What… just… happened?!” Ember exclaimed “I don’t know but I’m willing to bet the others have something to do with it.” Celestia replied Sandbar was bustling around in his room in the castle when his phone rang. He picked it up and answered the call, grabbing his gift for Ember. “Oh, hey Ember, I’m on my way to the party-” “No, Sandbar, stay where you are.” Ember’s voice came out. “I’m with Celestia, Yona’s got the staff and the crown. Celestia’s going to call her mom and tell her to get her crown.” Sandbar blinked in surprise, not registering the call end. “Is Gally with you? Ember? Ember?” Meanwhile, the VCs finally arrived in the Hidden Isle. They stopped near the building Discord’s father owned, skidding to a halt. Tempest canceled the spell, and the group set their bags down against a fence. Tempest looked at herself, finding she was back to normal. “Finally, I’m back.” “Well, obviously. Evil magic doesn’t work here, remember?” Discord flicked a claw at her horn. The group followed Discord as he led them to a metal door. He knocked against it in a pattern, another pattern answering back, which he answered with a third, and the door opened. Tempest rolled her eyes slightly and led the group after Discord. The draconequus known as Diataro ran an arcade and fortune telling saloon, and was currently surveying the activity going on around him. Discord ran up from behind and he spun around. “Discord!” “Dad!” The two hugged, then did a complicated handshake before Diataro and Discord walked off, presumably to get the key. “So, what kind of hustle you been pulling?” Diataro asked his son. “Heh, no hustle dad. I got friends on the other side.” Discord chuckled, and Diataro laughed. “Ah, I hear ya.” Diataro tweaked his son’s wings playfully as Discord snagged a key. “We’re on a mission.” Discord explained, putting the key around his neck. “I’m a major player, so I’m afraid I can’t stay long.” “Yeah, you just make sure you get your cut.” Diataro rubbed his son’s head, the two smiling at each other. Meanwhile, Thorax was fiddling with an old TV Diataro had in the arcade. He inserted one of the arcade tokens that had been left on top of the TV, then spun the dial. The TV turned on after a moment of static and Thorax sat down to observe what was playing. “Alerts of what appears to be a sleeping spell keep coming in as it spreads throughout Equus.” “U-Uh, guys?” Thorax called. “You might want to come see this…” The others rushed over, standing beside Thorax as they watched the screen. “There are rumors that Prince Rutherford’s daughter Yona is behind the spell. We are trying to find out who’s responsible for these vicious lies, and figure out which villain has perpetrated the evil deed.” Discord and Diataro wandered over as the reporter got an update. “It’s what? It’s moving this way-? It’s moving this way!” “Come on, we need to go get the bell, now.” Tempest ordered, and they nodded, getting up. As they went outside, Gallus threw up his wings in frustration. “Rookie mistake!” Spitfire’s pirates were rooting through their bags. Rainbow chuckled, slinging Pharynx’s bag over her shoulder. “Long time no see, eh?” “Give me my stuff, Rainbow!” Pharynx demanded “Catch me if you can, Pharynx!” Rainbow laughed, and the group took off, flying down the street. “Over the roofs, cut ‘em off, go!” Pharynx ordered, and Gallus grabbed Thorax, leading him off as Luna spread her wings and followed from the other direction. Pharynx charged after the pirates from the back. “Hey, not you.” Tempest said as Discord made to follow them. “We’re getting that bell, come on.” “Well, good timing I suppose, it’s around his naptime.” Discord shrugged, leading Tempest off. Meanwhile, the others chased the pirates, who had taken to the air, laughing and cackling. “Just let it go, Pharynx.” Thorax panted as they struggled to catch up to the pirates. “T-They’re way faster than us, you know, a-and without magic we’re at a disadvantage.” Pharynx snarled, nodding. “Fine. We’ll catch ‘em later anyway.” he muttered, patting his jacket to ensure he still had the ring. Family ProblemsAuthor's Note I forgot this story existed for a bit, sorry! ~Melody Song Family Problems Discord led Tempest over to a chain-link gate in an arch-shaped pathway, with an image of an outline of Grogar’s head attached to it. Tempest noticed a sign on the gate, Beware of the Bear. “Hey, how big is that bear?” Tempest asked, suppressing a shudder. Discord glanced at the sign, then smirked. “You’ll see.” Discord opened the gate with the key and led her inside, whispering. “Stay quiet, it echoes in here like you wouldn’t believe.” Tempest nodded, allowing Discord to lead her through the tunnel. She heard a bear growling and jumped slightly, but Discord urged her on, showing her a minecart with a pedaling mechanism attached to the front. Tempest got in the back while Discord operated the pedals. The growling got louder the further in they went, and the tunnel flickered red. Finally, they stopped. Discord then showed Tempest to a wooden staircase, leading to a room. In this room, Grogar slept on a couch, sunglasses over his eyes and a red fire flickering in one corner. The two crept down the stairs, and Discord pointed out the Bell, which was sitting on a table by the couch where Grogar was sleeping. The growling sounded again, and Tempest flinched, only for Discord to nudge her and point out a record being played, the source of the growling. Tempest breathed an internal sigh of relief, then began making her way around to the bell from behind. Discord, apparently fed up with the growling, walked over to the record and stopped it. Grogar didn’t even move, but spoke. “What are you doing here?” Discord flinched, then turned to face Grogar, who sat up, and pulled something out of his bag. “Noticed you were low on canned hay.” As Discord tossed Grogar the can, Tempest reached a hoof for the bell… only for Grogar’s hoof to come down on her own. Grogar took the bell, then turned to face her, staring at her silently. “Hi… Uncle Grogar.” Tempest said, and Discord, who had pulled some chocolate milk out of his bag, did a spit take. Grogar took off his sunglasses, giving her a look. “Quite a show you put on the other day.” “Could say the same to you.” Tempest said “I was just coming to see you.” Grogar chuckled. “Oh really? I wonder why.” Tempest said dryly. “Is it because I was your way into Equus?” “Oh Tempest, don’t be bitter.” Grogar chuckled, looking at a dusty mirror hanging on the wall. Tempest stared at him unflinchingly, Discord creeping back up to the staircase. “You abandoned me and my father.” “No, no, don’t get your memories twisted, I abandoned your father, you know he’s not the easiest creature to get along with. The craziness, the storm-loving, the everything.” “You think?” Tempest rolled her eyes. “You know you were supposed to help raise me. But you left me with him.” “See? We have something in common. We both hate your father.” Grogar chuckled. “No. I don’t hate my father. He may have been an evil lunatic but at least he stuck around after mom died. He raised me when his own brother went back on his promise.” “Oh boo hoo. Wake up and smell the stench, Tempest. You think you had it rough? I used to be a god! An entire world to my name! Now I have nothing! And you have no idea what that feels like.” Grogar said, storming off. “Really?!” Tempest screamed, storming after him. “For seventeen years, I had nothing! And now, I have a home. But unless I get that Bell, it’s game over.” “And why would I give it to you, you stuck up little brat?” Grogar snarled. With that, he began to sing. “Listen here little filly, You’re talking to a god I don’t want to hear about any drama Kindness isn’t in my brand.” “Oh, I guess that’s why you left.” Tempest shot back. “Try having your father for a brother.” “You’re a terrible uncle.” “Oh, did I make you sad?” Grogar mocked “Not as sad as you without your magic But I didn’t come to fight, So can’t you for once do something right?” “I created monsters. Were you expecting chocolates?” “Look, I only came because I need something.” “I’ve given you everything by offering nothing!” they sang at each other. “I’ve done everything because I had to!” Grogar sang loudly “No, you just did what you figured best for you.” Tempest retorted “Well maybe it’s time you learn a thing or two When push has come to shove You gotta do what you have to!” “Well, you were never here for me! I guess you don’t know how to write! You never sent a card to say ‘I love you’!” “You’ve got to be kidding! Come on, tell me it’s a joke! Just let this go, you know You’re stronger with family issues!” “Oh, thank you.” Tempest rolled her eyes. Grogar glared at her. “Show me some respect, you’re wild It’s not easy to neglect a child! But attention only makes you softer!” “So I should be proud? Don’t turn this talk around!” “You really are your father’s daughter.” Grogar scoffed “Look, I only came because I need something!” “I’ve given you everything by offering nothing!” they sang as one. “I’ve done everything because it was what I had to I’ve made it on my own, clearly no thanks to you.” Tempest glared at him dryly. “Well maybe it’s time you learn a thing or two When push has come to shove You gotta do what you have to! How about I go with you, we can have some bonding time!” Grogar suggested, grinning. “How about you stay right where you are, if you think you’re coming you’re out of your mind!” Tempest turned away from him, and he put a hoof around her. “We’ll make memories and you can show me around!” “I think I’m good, keep your memories you stinking cow.” Tempest said, and Grogar rolled his eyes. “Get over it.” “I am over it.” Tempest shot back. “I’m over you being over it!” they shouted at each other. “I’ve done everything because I had to No, you just did what you figured best for you! Well maybe it’s time you learn a thing or two When push has come to shove you gotta When push has come to shove you gotta When push has come to shove You gotta do what you have to!” they finished as one “You want to make up for being a lousy uncle?” Tempest asked him, as Discord peeked back out from the staircase. “Give me the Bell.” “The Bell only works for me.” Grogar replied. “No, it’ll work for me. We’re blood.” Tempest reminded him sternly. “You’re only half me, and that’s from your satyr father.” Groger held up the Bell. “It won’t do everything for you that it does for me.” “I’ll take my chances.” Tempest said curtly. Grogar paused, then set the Bell in her hoof. She smirked and walked up the stairs. “If it gets scorched, it’s game over.” Grogar told Tempest as she left, getting Discord. Tempest merely gave a noncommittal nod in response. He smirked slightly. “That’s my niece.” TrucesAs Tempest and Discord headed out of the cavern, Discord spoke. “I guess that’s the reason he mentions you a lot.” he said, looking at his claws. Tempest stopped, and Discord paused as well. “...Luna is the only one who knows that he’s my uncle.” Tempest told him. “And as far as I’m concerned, he doesn’t even exist.” Discord nodded in understanding, and they headed out. Sandbar was on his phone, struggling to relay orders without Pharynx to help explain how the guard ran. “No, I need the royal guard giving out gas masks. Well, not everyone’s asleep!” He hung up and turned to the servant waiting patiently by the door to his room. “Find out if anyone’s seen Yona, and if she has a list of demands.” Sandbar ordered, and the servant left. He sighed, pulling off his jacket and sitting down at his desk. “Just one.” Yona’s voice said from behind him, and he jumped, turning to face her. “I demand my life back. I’ll wake everyone up right now. Under one, itty-bitty condition, Sandy-bear.” Yona trailed a hoof up his shoulder, and Sandbar knocked it away unflinchingly. “Make me your queen and we’ll rule together.” Yona demanded in a soft voice. “Yona, did someone put a spell on you?” Sandbar asked. “Tell me who and I can-” “You can what? Marry them?” Yona asked sharply, then cackled, walking to the window. “Most people get dumped because they’re not good enough. I wasn’t bad enough. How do you like me now, Sandy-bear?” “I liked the old Yona better.” Sandbar said stiffly. “She wouldn’t want to hurt Equus. Just give me the staff and I’ll forgive you.” Yona held it away from him. “You’ll forgive me? I don’t think so. Sleeping is too good for you!” She blasted Sandbar with the staff and he fell over. Yona walked to the window. “Sleeping is too good for Equus!” she shouted, the staff flashing with light. Elsewhere, Rising Dawn and her sister Nebular Star were rushing up the steps to the Museum of Equus History, when a bolt of lightning struck down and enveloped them. In a flash, the two were stone. Back on the Hidden Isle, Tempest and Discord had regrouped with the others, and they were heading for the barrier. “Alright, get in, get out, got it?” Tempest asked, and they all nodded. “Pharynx, you still got the-” “Remote that turns on the bridge, yep.” Pharynx pulled it out of his jacket and activated it, making the barrier give them a doorway. The group walked through the barrier. As they did, Tempest tapped the Bell with a hoof, and in a flash she was back to normal. Except now, her outfit was a sleek black and purple bodysuit, and her mane, rather than being in the same style Gabby and Smolder had done for her when she had returned to the Isle, had become a deep, dark purple, with blue fades weaving their way in and out of it. “Woah…” Pharynx stared at her, then kissed her cheek. “You look beautiful.” Then, as they stepped forward onto the remnants of the stone part of the bridge, three blurs shot through after them. They cried out and turned around, seeing Fleetfoot, Rainbow, and Soarin standing behind them as the barrier closed again. “Hey guys, we’re just coming for a little visit.” Rainbow said, as the three tried to get past them. “Oh no you don’t.” Gallus pushed Rainbow back as Pharynx and Tempest stepped in front of the other two. The six began struggling, and Soarin shoved Tempest, who dropped the bell. “Wait, no!” Tempest cried, as Rainbow kicked it, sending it flying. “No! If we lose it-” Something orange and red swooped down out of the sky and caught it. A bright orange and red phoenix, carrying the bell in its talons. “Somecreature drop something?” Spitfire’s voice came out of the phoenix’s beak, chuckling. “Spitfire!” the three pegasi exclaimed “It can’t get burned!” Tempest shouted, horn sparking. “Give it back to me before it melts!” “Heheh… you know my power.” Spitfire said, smirking at her. Flames surrounded the phoenix, and the bell. “No!” Tempest shouted. But as the flames disappeared, Spitfire stood before them on the broken bridge, the bell dangling from her hoof. “Hey team.” she said, and Fleetfoot rushed to her. “Thpitty!” Fleetfoot threw her hooves around Spitfire, kissing her cheek. “Heh, welcome back.” Soarin said. “We thought you flew off and forgot all about us.” Rainbow said. “Planning her revenge, no doubt.” Tempest muttered, and Spitfire scoffed. “It’s not all about you, Tempest.” she told her, looking to her team. “I was looking for a hole in the barrier, to let everycreature out. And you know what I found?” “What?” Soarin prompted, and Spitfire glared at the VCs and Discord. “It’s way better on their side of the barrier than we thought! There are these weird moving rocks called turtles. And clouds so thick you could sleep on them! And they’ve been keeping it all for themselves.” “Whatever.” Tempest held out her hoof for the Bell. “Spitfire, I need that to break a spell.” “Cast by Yona, Prince Rutherford’s daughter.” Gallus added “Oh, so the good guy’s the bad guy.” Spitfire said, laughing. “Well, I might not give it back. See what happens.” “Spitfire, it’s not the time for games! Creature’s lives are in danger!” “Oh no… E-Ember, h-her party…” Thorax realized, looking over at Equus in the distance. Pharynx put a hoof on his brother’s back. Spitfire chuckled, then held up the bell. “Guarantee me that every single Villain Creature who wants to can get off the Isle.” “I-I can’t do that.” Tempest admitted. “Oh?” Spitfire ignited her wing in flames, holding it close to the Bell. “How about now?!” “Deal!” Tempest shouted, holding out her hoof. “Deal.” Spitfire raised a brow, wing fluttering close to the Bell. Luna, who had been standing with Discord, jumped forwards. “Spitfire! Her word is good.” Spitfire glanced at the Bell, then chuckled softly. “I’ll still keep this.” She lifted up her necklace, holding it against the Bell. The Bell shrunk slightly, and Spitfire unclasped her necklace, slipping the Bell onto it. “For the time being. If you think I trust you to save the world on your own, think again.” Spitfire grinned and turned to her team. “This is a job for Sky Pirates!” Tempest glared at her, and Thorax moved over. “W-We can always go back to hating each other when this is over.” he told her quietly. “...Fine.” Tempest agreed stiffly. “Now, where’s our stuff?” Pharynx asked the pirates, who grinned. “Oh, we left them on the other side of the barrier.” Rainbow told him. Pharynx snarled, raising a hoof, but Thorax pulled him back. “Hey, you still have the ring, that’s what matters.” Thorax whispered to him, and he nodded slightly. “Here’s a thought.” Luna stepped forwards, wings fluffing. “We could try to be friends. Put our history behind us and celebrate our differences.” Everyone stared at her for a minute, and while Thorax seemed hopeful, looking from his brother to the pirates, the others shot her deadpan looks. “Let’s go.” Spitfire said, beginning to walk off. “Nope!” Tempest stepped over. “I’m in charge. Let’s go.” New PlansAfter crossing the ocean once more by using Tempest’s spell-though Spitfire and her team flew over instead, they made their way to Equus Prep. Where they found creatures scattered everywhere, students, sleeping. “They’re all asleep…” Luna whispered, phone held up to her ear. Gallus and Thorax also had their phones out. “I-I can’t get Sandy.” Gallus said. “Or Gabby, or Snowdrop.” Luna reported “Or Ember…” Thorax looked at his phone nervously. “The signal’s out.” “Is that Equus prep?” Discord asked, pointing at the giant castle. “Yep. You’re gonna love it once everyone wakes up.” Pharynx told him “Everything is so green!” Rainbow exclaimed. “There are leaves on the trees.” “And what are thethe colored thingieth on the busheth?” Fleetfoot asked. Thorax blinked at her. “Flowers?” “They’re pretty.” Fleetfoot picked one and tucked it behind her ear, smiling. “Cool! Tiny cantaloupe!” Soarin grabbed a bowl of grapes sitting by a sleeping student and began eating, giving some to Rainbow. “There’s no fresh fruit on the Isle, remember?” Spitfire said as Pharynx opened his mouth to say something. Pharynx sighed, glancing over at Soarin and Rainbow. “They’re called grapes, by the way.” “Grapes… I love grapes.” Soarin decided, as Rainbow began pickpocketing the sleeping students. “I believe I deserve some… compensation for my speed… my cunning, and my role in this endeavour.” Rainbow said, and Pharynx stormed over, grabbing the money and wallet and stuffing them back into the student’s shirt pocket. “You do. Me not bucking you into a wall.” Pharynx snarled at her, and she chuckled. “Think I’m scared of you, Pharynx?” “Guys.” Spitfire and Tempest spoke as one, getting their attention. “Monarch!” Gallus cried, and they saw him lean down, scooping up the kitten, who began purring contentedly, happy to be back with his owner. “Guys!” Luna called, and they walked over, seeing her standing by a stone unicorn mare in a band uniform, looking terrified. “She’s stone…” “Yona was definitely here. Everycreature stay on your hooves.” Tempest said “Since we’re here, let’s check out the school.” Spitfire said “No.” Gallus stopped her. “Yona wants revenge, she’ll have gone for Sandy… h-he’s in the castle…” “Then that’s where we’ll go.” Tempest told him. “Says who?” Spitfire asked “Says me.” “Says you. And that’s supposed to mean something to me?” “Girls.” Luna spoke, and they glanced at her. “...To the castle.” Tempest said, and they nodded, rushing off. Meanwhile, in an old cottage in the forest, Yona was staring into the gem in the Staff of Sacanas, watching Tempest and the others leave the school grounds. “How did Tempest break my spell?!” Yona asked, and Blueblood trembled nearby. “I-I don’t know.” Yona grabbed a bowl of fruit on the table and dumped out the fruit, holding up the bowl. “And what is Spitfire doing here?!” “N-No no no!” Blueblood shrieked and ducked as Yona tossed the glass bowl at the wall. “Where did they go, Blue?! Where did they go?!” “I-I don’t know! I-I can go check for you, if you want-” “Stay!” Yona commanded, and he crouched on the floor. Yona walked over and began stroking his mane like he was a dog. “It’s about to get a little ugly.” “Sandy!” Gallus called frantically as they entered the castle hallway leading to Sandbar’s room. “Gallus, Sandbar could be asleep anywhere.” Tempest reminded him. “Or turned to stone.” Discord put in, and Luna covered his mouth with a hoof, nodding to an already nervous Gallus. “Sandyyy!” Gallus continued calling. Monarch meowed loudly and leapt down from Gallus’ claw, meowing and padding down a corridor. “Wait, I think Monarch’s got his scent!” “Really?” Soarin asked “Yeah. He gives great cuddles, too.” Gallus chuckled as they followed the cat. “Cool. I never had a pet growing up.” Rainbow remarked. “Except for the stuffed bird mom and dad made but that’s not exactly-” “Hold up.” Spitfire said, stopping them and touching a hoof to a completely torn painting. “What’s this?” “Um… any chance this was already like that?” Thorax asked Gallus, who shook his head. Monarch meowed again and Gallus ran after him. “Sandy!” The group found themselves in a large room filled with sets of armor. “What is this place?” Thorax asked. “Armor room, some of the guards store their weapons and uniforms in here.” Pharynx supplied, as Rainbow examined a sword. “I can feel you looking~” she told Pharynx as he approached her. “Good.” he muttered. Soarin was leaning down and petting Monarch, who was standing obediently by Discord, who had waited by the doorway. “So he can track and cuddle… do you think his kittens would be just as fluffy?” Soarin asked “Hey, he’s taken. You want a pet, adopt one from a rescue shelter.” Gallus told Soarin, who nodded. Discord got Monarch to come over to him and picked him up. The rest of the group continued moving around the room, searching. “I bet you lost some sleep thinking about me on the loose, huh?” Spitfire asked Tempest, who looked away. “Good soldiers don’t sleep.” Tempest put a hoof to her chin in thought. “I wonder if cooked Phoenix tastes like chicken.” “Okay, why don’t we not do this?” Luna suggested. “We’re celebrating our differences.” Spitfire retorted. Elsewhere, back in her cottage, Yona stared into the Staff’s gem, cackling evilly. All at once, the armor surrounding the group began to move. Thorax shrieked and hid behind Pharynx. Tempest and Spitfire didn’t notice, too busy arguing with each other. “I believe we’re being challenged.” Rainbow told Spitfire, who held up a wing for silence. “Let’s split up and look for Yona.” Spitfire said. “That makes no sense, unless you give me the Bell she’s going to spell you.” The armor continued moving, and Rainbow slapped Spitfire with her wing. The mare turned to her, clearly angered by the slap. Rainbow ignored the look she was being given and pointed at the suit of armor. “Guys! We kind of have a situation here!” “You like Princes so badly?” Yona’s voice came from a suit of armor directly in front of them. “How about a knight in shining armor? Or knights.” Watch Your FlanksWith one last cackle, Yona’s voice faded out, and all the knights began approaching them, their swords drawn. The group backed up to the center of the room, all of them beginning to sing. “Watch your flank, watch your flank Watch your flank, watch your flank We will counter their attack Let’s hit ‘em til the armor breaks!” “This could get a little sticky!” Spitfire sang out, directing Soarin with a wing, who ran over and grabbed some spare swords, tossing one each to Rainbow and Fleetfoot, then passing one to Spitfire, who continued singing. “Winning this battle will be tricky! But I know the way, now fall back and let me lead! You hold the line and my team’ll bring them to their hooves!” Tempest beckoned for Pharynx to grab some swords for them, and he did, passing them to the others, though Thorax fumbled with his. Tempest raised her sword in her crackling aura, singing out loudly. “Swords up high in the air if you’re for me! These things have us outnumbered one to twenty! But victory will be ours if you listen to my strategy! Spitfire’s team takes the left and the rest of you follow me!” “No way!” Spitfire objected, and the girls glared at each other, muzzle-to-muzzle. “This is my crew!” Tempest shouted at her. “This is my team!” Spitfire shot back. “Well this is my turf!” “For the love of Rising Dawn!” Luna exclaimed, stepping between the two. Luna looked between them, singing. “Look guys, we’ve clearly got bigger fish to fry! So put your differences away We’ve got to work together to win today!” Luna raised her sword, still singing. “Until these knights fall, everyone-” “I swear we’ll stay together ‘til the battle is won.” Spitfire and Tempest sang, glaring at each other still, expressing a mere truce and no more. The group all sang as one, beginning to fight the suits of armor, their swords clashing together. “Watch your flank, watch your flank Watch your flank, watch your flank! We will counter their attack Let’s hit ‘em ‘til the armor breaks!” “Until the knights fall, we’re aligned!” Luna sang. “Don’t think that means we’re on the same team!” Spitfire and Tempest told each other, sneering. “Watch your flank, watch your flank Watch your flank, watch your flank! Hitting hard and hitting fast But we can’t get them to react!” Pharynx and Thorax clashed their swords as one against a suit of armor, but it didn’t move. Tempest rushed by with Spitfire, the two hitting one suit of armor as one. Tempest began singing as she struggled against a suit of armor with a larger sword. “This situation’s getting kind of heavy! Hold to your weapons tightly, keep them steady! If we stick together we might make it out alive I’ll cause a distraction, Spitfire, attack it from the side!” Spitfire did as Tempest said for once, stabbing it in the side and tossing it away, then began battling two at once, singing. “All my team will stand at the ready! Let’s cut them up like confetti! I’ll hit from the front, Tempest, counter from behind! And don’t forget the fate of Equus is on the line!” Tempest followed Spitfire's directions and got one of the knights from behind. The entire group began singing again as the suits of armor got closer, keeping them in the center of the room. “It’s all out war, our group is outnumbered! The sound of swords clashing is like thunder!” Tempest held her head high, aiming her sword at a suit of armor as she thrust it. “But we’re not going under, we won’t ever run and cower!” The others answered as one, charging again. “We battle for victory but we’re fighting for each other!” “Until the knights fall, everyone-” Luna began “I swear we’ll stay together ‘til the battle is won!” Spitfire and Tempest chorused “Flank to flank, flank to flank Flank to flank, flank to flank We will counter their attack Let’s hit ‘em ‘til the armor breaks.” “Until the knights fall, we’re aligned!” Luna called. “Don’t think that means we’re on the same team!” Spitfire and Tempest told each other. “Flank to flank, flank to flank Flank to flank, flank to flank Hitting hard and hitting fast But we can’t get them to react!” Tempest and Spitfire each blasted the suits of armor at the same time, Tempest with a bolt of electricity and Spitfire with a burst of flames. The attacks hit and combined to form a shuddering ripple in the suits of armor that made them stop. Tempest grinned, then stepped forwards and ignited her horn. “Suits of armor are strong and true, let’s make this metal copy some moves!” All at once, the suits of armor froze, and Tempest jumped up into the air. The armor copied her. She continued, dancing, as the armor copied her. Spitfire jumped up and took her place, also dancing, then Gallus leapt up. The girls jumped over and all began dancing in different styles, so the armor didn’t know who to follow. “No!” Yona shouted, watching from far away in her cottage. The boys joined in, Discord leaping forwards and adding some moves of his own, snapping his fingers and causing about ten copies of himself to appear, helping to confuse the armor with their own dance moves. “Until the knights fall, you can trust-” Luna started “I’ll help you win this battle because-” Spitfire and Tempest added, smiling at each other slightly. They then all sang, dancing around. “I got your flank, got your flank Got your flank, got your flank! All for one and one for all’s a fact! Then the knights fall, pitch black!” The suits of armor collapsed, unable to take any more. Discord laughed, and with a snap of his fingers, his duplicates disappeared and the knights were wrapped up in a plaid ribbon. “You’re really getting the hang of the whole ‘having magic’ thing.” Thorax said softly. “Sometimes I still forget I can shapeshift.” Discord chuckled as the others all began cheering. From the cottage, Yona screamed in rage. Coming Together“Whoo! We did that!” Spitfire cheered, looking at the pile of suits of armor. Tempest laughed, and the two girls faced each other, hooves raised for a high hoof. “That’s what I’m talking-” They stopped, then retracted their hooves. Meanwhile, Gallus, Thorax, and Pharynx were congratulating Soarin, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot, the groups seeming to finally be getting along. However, they split up again and went back to their leaders, Gallus picking up Monarch from where he’d been left in the doorway. Luna’s hopeful look stayed on. “Guys, come on! This was so great! We were a team! We worked together! Come on!” she tried to take Tempest’s hoof, but Tempest shook her head. Luna then reached for Spitfire, who also turned her away. Luna sighed, then smiled. “You know what we should try? An icebreaker.” Both groups stared at her, including Discord, who was watching silently from the doorway. Pharynx facehoofed and groaned under his breath as Luna turned to Spitfire and her team. “You say something you really like about the other creature. I’ll start.” Luna surveyed the group for a moment, then looked at Rainbow. “Rainbow Dash, you have a great mane. Now you go.” Spitfire stared at her, then looked to Tempest. “Is she always this optimistic?” “Uh, Spitfire, it wasn’t really your turn. But thank you.” Luna said, taking it as a compliment. “Okay, Lu, a word?” Tempest pulled Luna over to her. “First of all, I love you.” “Love you too bestie.” “I love this energy, but we are very short on time.” Tempest reminded her. “Yona obviously knows we’re here so we need to get out of here.” “Alright, where does this perky cheerleader bunk?” Spitfire asked, interrupting the conversation. “Even if she’s not there, we might find a clue.” “She’s still in the school dorms.” Luna told her. “She has summer school.” Rainbow burst out laughing. “Summer school? Summer. School. No wonder she wants revenge!” “Alright, this will work best if we split up. Pharynx, Thorax, Gallus, Rainbow, Soarin, go find Sandbar. The rest of us will search Yona’s dorm. Meet back up at Luna’s in two hours.” Tempest directed. “So it sounds like we’re going with my plan. Just saying.” Spitfire remarked. “It’s kind of the obvious plan.” “Spit said it first.” Soarin jumped in. “Right, so it’s my plan.” Spitfire smirked. “Whatever.” Tempest said in exasperation, leaving the room. “Come on!” Tempest and Luna entered Yona’s dorm, having searched around the school. Discord was sitting at Yona’s vanity while Spitfire lay on her bed with Fleetfoot. Fleetfoot was being spooned by Spitfire, the two fillies looking at a diary that lay in front of them. “She’s nowhere on campus. Any luck here?” Tempest asked “We found her diary.” Spitfire said, chuckling. “Dang did Gallus ruin her life.” “Okay, but did you find anything in there we don’t already know?” “She hangth out at Thecret Cottage. You know, where her father grew up before he moved hith clan up to the mountainth and became the king.” Fleetfoot reported, snuggling up to Spitfire. Tempest nodded. “Yes, that makes sense… I wonder if she ever took Sandbar there. If we can find him he might be able to tell us where it is.” “You know, I don’t see how anyone with this bed could ever be unhappy.” Spitfire said, stretching out on it. “Ha!” Discord turned to face them, wearing a tiara and a long string of pearls. “Does this make me look more feminine?” Luna turned to him, giving him a look. “The bling stays here.” “But she’s bad!” Discord protested “And we’re not.” Luna retorted. Discord sighed and with a snap of his fingers it was back where he’d found it. Meanwhile, the others wandered through the forest outside the castle. “Sandy!!” Gallus called. “Sandy!!” “Man, these things grow everywhere!” Soarin said, pulling some berries off a bush. Pharynx walked over, mentally checking to see if they were edible. Soarin ate one and Pharynx said nothing, knowing they were safe. “Hey, we should play that icebreaker!” Thorax, Rainbow, Gallus, and Pharynx glanced at him. Soarin looked around, then focused on Pharynx. “Pharynx, I like the way you can do parkour. It’s cool.” Pharynx blinked, then shrugged and walked over. “Um… I like how you can get a kick out of a berry bush.” he said, taking some for himself. “I guess you’ve probably seen everything by now, huh?” Soarin asked softly. “Moving rocks, giant clouds… grabbing lunch off a bush…” “Not really. I just use the vending machines after sports practice.” Pharynx shrugged. “Guess I should try other things too sometimes.” “Ha! Sports? That’s a foal’s game!” Rainbow laughed “Oh shut up, you don’t even know what sports are.” Pharynx shot back, and Soarin tapped his shoulder. “Hey, you know what would be fun? Going river rafting in a jungle.” “Or discovering a lost civilization of changelings…” Pharynx said. “I know there’s bound to be more out there somewhere.” “Or find a Thunderbird!” Soarin exclaimed. “I-I think they might not be that common, but sure.” Pharynx agreed “You guys are killing me!” Rainbow exclaimed, walking over. She took a berry, ate it, then grinned. “Nice. Oh, hey, Gallus, your cat went that way.” “What? Monarch!” Gallus shot off in the direction Rainbow had indicated, the others following as they heard Monarch’s frantic mewing. Tempest and Luna led Spitfire and Discord up the path to Luna’s house. “You know, I hope the others find Sandbar, for Gallus’ sake.” Tempest said, as they approached the small castle. “Woah, nice digs.” Spitfire said, and Luna shrugged. “I got a good deal.” The group headed inside, and Tempest’s eyes widened. “Oh no…” Gilda and Gabby were curled up on the floor, sleeping with their wings around each other. Garble was passed out on the couch, Smolder on the other side of the couch, sleeping on her back with Ocellus asleep on top of her. “We completely forgot about them…” Luna whispered. Discord walked over and snapped some blankets into existence, letting them fall over the five creatures. “It’s alright.” he told them, eyes soft. “We’re going to get you back awake soon. We’re going to fix this, and then, they’re going to let all the kids come over from the Isle.” Tempest bit her lip nervously at this, but no one noticed. “Wait… if they’re asleep then-Snow!” Luna rushed over to her studio, where they found Snowdrop. She was lying on her side, slumped over onto the work table with her glasses askew. “Who’s that?” Spitfire asked. “Snowdrop!” Luna raced over, nudging her gently with her muzzle. “Snow? Wake up! Wake up!” “She’s spelled.” Spitfire reminded her, looking at Tempest. “Is she not a fast learner?” “She’s emotionally involved.” Tempest explained, making her friend blush. “Well, in that case, she should be able to wake her up.” Spitfire said, and Luna looked at her. “True love’s kiss? Works every time?” Reunions“W-We haven’t actually used the L word yet…” Luna whispered, and Spitfire rolled her eyes. Luna leaned in, then pulled back. “Can we be alone?” Spitfire rolled her eyes again, but she and Tempest left. Luna sighed and stood up, pacing around. She began to sing nervously, looking at Snowdrop. “Don’t freak out, it’ll be okay True love can save the day I’m pretty sure we feel the same But I don’t really know When we met, it was so sweet She was so, so into me It really seems we’re meant to be but I don’t know. Does she love me? Does she love me not? Do I truly love her? And will it be strong enough?” As Luna sang this, Spitfire and Tempest crept back over to the doorway, watching her. Luna looked at Snowdrop nervously. “One kiss-” “One kiss.” Spitfire and Tempest echoed, prompting her. “It’s all come down to this One kiss-” “One kiss!” “Oh oh oh oh, One kiss-” “One kiss!” “This moment could be my ‘it’ I really really want to know! So here I go…” Luna lifted Snowdrop in her magic and held her up, then paused and pulled back. Spitfire groaned and rolled her eyes. Luna laid Snowdrop on the worktable, continuing to pace around. “I’ve got to keep cool, keep calm I’m pretty sure she’s loved me all along Though maybe I’ve got it wrong But I don’t really know She’s so sweet, always got my back But maybe I’m just too corrupt Could we be a true match? Now I really don’t know Does she love me? Does she love me not? Do I truly love her? And is it strong enough? One kiss-” “One kiss!” Spitfire and Tempest continued encouraging “It’s all come down to this One kiss-” “One kiss!” “Oh, oh, oh, oh One kiss-” “One kiss!” “This moment could be my ‘it’ I really really want to know! So here I go… Here I go…” Luna leaned down to Snowdrop again, then paused and rushed out of the workspace through the door that led outside. She flapped her wings. “I can feel my heart beating telling me that it’s gonna work! But if I’m just dreaming then it’s only gonna hurt! Either I will or won’t What if I do but she don’t? Is she truly my princess? There’s only one true way to know!” Luna strutted back inside, standing over Snowdrop. Tempest and Spitfire had given up practically banging their heads on the doorframe now and decided to make themselves scarce. “One kiss, one kiss! It’s all come down to this! One kiss, one kiss! Oh, oh, oh, oh! One kiss, one kiss!” “This moment is my ‘it’! I really, really wanna know! So here I go… Here I go Here I go Here I go…” Luna finally leaned down, lifting Snowdrop’s head up with her hoof, and kissing her gently. She then leaned back, watching Snowdrop desperately. When nothing happened, Luna turned away, not noticing Snowdrop’s head raised slightly. She sensed something was off and turned back around to see Snowdrop’s head thunk back onto the table and a snicker escape the filly. “Dropsy!” Luna exclaimed, hugging the filly tightly, and Snowdrop giggled, feeling around for her glasses, which Luna levitated over and put on her face. “Oh Dropsy…” Snowdrop smiled and leaned in close, and the two kissed once more. Meanwhile, the others still were looking for Sandbar, following Monarch as the kitten mewed, padding along and sniffing the air. “Sandy!” Gallus called “Ugh, something smells…” Rainbow said, covering her muzzle with a hoof. There was a growling noise, and the group froze, Gallus scooping Monarch into his claw. A huge were-pony like monster stalked out from between the trees. It rushed at them, growling and snarling ferally. Thorax shrieked and hid behind Pharynx, who lunged forwards and shoved it into a tree, when it came at them again Rainbow knocked it over. But in an instant, it was back on its feet. Pharynx grabbed Rainbow and pulled her out of the way as the monster charged again. The group formed a defensive circle, watching as the beast climbed a small hill and roared. Gallus then recognized the shaggy green fur and his eyes widened. “S-Sandy?” he asked, and the group looked from Gallus to the monster. “He seriously needs a trip to the groomer.” Rainbow said, but Gallus stepped over, setting Monarch down. “I don’t think so… this is Sandy, Yona must’ve done this.” “I thought I recognized that… really torn up jacket.” Pharynx said, looking at the shreds of fabric. The monster roared at them, then whimpered and looked at its hoof. Gallus’ eyes widened. “Oh, he’s hurt. That’s why he’s upset.” Soarin said “Uh… Gallus, if, you know, you thought this might be a good time to go, uh… do something about your fiance…?” Pharynx said, shielding Thorax. “O-Okay… yeah…” Gallus looked down at the ring on his claw, then nodded and stepped over to the hill, climbing up. “Sandy…? It’s me, it’s Gallus.” Sandbar growled at him, but he held out his claw, the one with the ring on it. “It’s Gally, Sandy. It’s me.” Gallus said. “You helped me when I was scared… you always have… let me help you.” Sandbar growled, then slowly held out his hoof. Gallus took it in his claw, seeing a large splinter in his hoof. He winced slightly. “Oh Sandy… it’s okay, I can get it. Claws can come in handy sometimes.” Gallus gently grasped the splinter between his claws. “It’s okay. In one… two…” He yanked it out, and Sandbar roared in pain, as Gallus tossed the blood covered splinter away. “There you go, you did it.” Gallus said, as Sandbar turned to him, he looked less ferocious, but still angry. “Um… Sandy…?” Before anything else could happen, two jets of water shot at Sandbar from behind the group, and magic surrounded the transformed colt. They turned around to see Ember and Celestia, both holding water guns and firing at Sandbar. “Em!” Thorax exclaimed, and she blushed slightly, looking over at him with a smile. The girls stopped, and Thorax rushed over to Ember, jumping over and hugging her tightly. Ember giggled and hugged back. “Oh sweet Rising Dawn I’m so glad you’re okay!” the two said as one, before continuing to hug. “...He’s with a dragon? Isn’t he the one that’s afraid of spiders?” Rainbow asked, and Pharynx chuckled. “Yeah, surprising, right?” Pharynx looked over at Celestia, who was twirling her water gun. “Nice going girls.” “Thanks.” she grinned. “I’m just glad it worked.” “What do you mea-” “Sandy!” Gallus exclaimed. All Together AgainThe group turned to look at Sandbar. He was back to normal, except his mane was a bit longer, and he had a slight beard. “Wow, that was weird…” Sandbar panted, as Gallus felt his beard, giggling. “I could get used to this…” he said, pecking Sandbar on the cheek. “I think he needs another spray.” Ember said, one arm around Thorax. She held up the water gun and sprayed it at him, but nothing happened. “Huh. Guess it can only do so much.” “What is it?” Soarin asked “Water from the Enchanted Lake. It kept us from falling asleep so we took some, just to see if it would work.” Celestia explained. “Well, thanks for saving us.” Thorax said, nuzzling Ember affectionately, and she blushed heavily. “Hold it.” Sandbar leaned against Gallus, looking at Soarin and Rainbow. “Whose side are they on?” “They escaped the Isle and joined us, Fleetfoot too.” Pharynx explained. “Tempest has Grogar’s Bell, which she says is the only way to stop Yona. Details to follow, let’s go.” “Hey, wait, does that mean you went back to the Isle?” “I told you details to follow, we’re meeting up with Tempest, Luna, Discord, Fleetfoot and Spitfire-” “Spitfire?!” “Details to follow!” Pharynx, Thorax, and Ember shouted at him at the same time. “...Okay. Okay.” Sandbar sighed, and Gallus led him down along the path, nuzzling him and kissing his cheek. The others followed, Celestia hurrying along after the king at the mention of meeting up with her cousin. “Hey, uh, Pharynx?” Rainbow walked over to the changeling as he walked beside his brother and Ember. “Thanks for, you know, saving me back there.” “Yeah, uh, no problem.” Pharynx responded, and they followed the others down the path. Back at Luna’s castle, Tempest paced around as Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Discord helped themselves to the cake that was still sitting in the kitchen. Spitfire and Fleetfoot had picked out all the gems from the cake. Tempest paused and moved over to Spitfire. “That was a really good idea.” she said, continuing when Spitfire didn’t respond. “To check Yona’s room. Now we know we’re on the right track.” “...Is there an insult in there that I missed?” Spitfire asked. “No, I just wanted to thank you.” Tempest told her. Spitfire smiled slightly. “No!” Yona yelled in frustration, staring at them using the staff. “Think you’re on the right track? You’re not going anywhere!” Yona looked up at Blueblood, who was looking nervous. “Let’s mess them up a little.” “...I say we go back to my place and maybe binge watch some TV.” Blueblood suggested, and she glared at him. “Or order some stuff online? Yeah?” Yona waved a hoof and forced him down to his knees. “What about pizza?” Blueblood said, and she forced him down onto his flank. “N-No, you don’t like pizza… Yakyakistan food!” Yona then thrust the staff forwards, sending him flying into a broom closet and locking the door, ignoring his pleading screams. Yona laughed and twirled, walking away from the closet as Blueblood pounded on it frantically. “I don’t know whose birthday it is but I want this cake.” Spitfire said, licking the frosting off a gem. “Even if I can’t eat half of it.” Tempest chuckled, eating her own slice, picking out another gem with her magic. “I… might’ve messed some things up by… you know, calling you weak and not letting you join my gang…” Spitfire looked down, then chuckled. “Yeah. We really could’ve torn up the Isle together.” The two chuckled and continued eating, until a wood plank clashing against the window startled them. They stood up, rushing to the window as more and more planks appeared, blocking them in. The two girls gripped each other as the light was slowly blocked. “Fleety!” Spitfire shouted. “Luna! Discord!” “We’re trapped!” Discord shrieked, rushing over as Luna and Fleetfoot raced in, Snowdrop behind them. Fleetfoot clung onto Spitfire, while Luna and Snowdrop hugged each other. Tempest ignited her horn and began chanting frantically. “You’ve caused the ones I love enough fear, we’ve had all we can take so disappear!” Tempest shouted. “No… it’s not working, Yona’s magic must be getting stronger!” Spitfire then looked down, noticing that her necklace was glowing and pulsing with a light bright as a fire. She stepped closer, then took Tempest’s hoof. She nodded to her, then they both began chanting. “You’ve caused the ones we love enough fear, we’ve had all we can take so disappear!” they shouted. There was a moment of silence, and then the boards fell. The two, unable to hear Yona’s scream of surprise and anger from her cottage, turned to each other. Luna stepped over. “You did it… together…” Luna said, smiling. “See? This is what I’ve been talking about.” “Yeah, well… I guess my necklace likes you.” Spitfire told Tempest, who chuckled. Spitfire unclipped her necklace, pulling the Bell off of it. The Bell returned to it’s normal size and she held it out. “Why don’t you hold onto that?” Tempest’s eyes widened as she took it. The two hoofbumped, chuckling and smiling. Discord went to the window, and then turned back to Tempest, grinning. “Your bugfriend’s back.” Tempest’s eyes widened and she rushed outside. The others followed her eagerly. The two groups joined up, Tempest rushing over to hug Pharynx while Spitfire and Fleetfoot greeted Rainbow and Soarin. Gallus and Sandbar went over to Luna and Snowdrop while Discord waved at Thorax, Ember, and Celestia. “You guys okay?” Pharynx asked “We’re fine.” Tempest nuzzled him. “You guys good?” Soarin asked his two friends. Spitfire and Fleetfoot nodded, group-hugging him and Rainbow. “I told you you could be part of the solution.” Sandbar told Spitfire, chuckling as he rested in Gallus’ embrace. Spitfire rolled her eyes and chuckled slightly. “Heh… alright.” Tempest kissed Pharynx’s cheek, then pulled away from him, addressing the group as a whole. “We think Yona could be at Secret Cottage. Did she ever take you there, Sandbar?” “Every father’s day. Even before we started dating, we’d been friends for a while.” Sandbar explained. “Alright, so that’s where we’ll-” “What do you mean mom’s not here?!” Celestia exclaimed, drawing their attention. She and Luna were standing nearby, facing each other. “I thought she and my mom were at Ember’s party!” “No! They hadn’t arrived by the time the sleeping spell hit, I tried calling her but I didn’t get any service!” Luna hugged her cousin tightly, and the two girls held each other. Snowdrop, Ember, and Thorax went over, comforting them gently. Thorax looked at Ember, beckoning for her to follow him a bit away. A Plan And A Truth“Did you need something Thor?” Ember asked softly, and Thorax blushed. “I… yeah, I…” Thorax pulled out a small blue box with a red ribbon on it. “I meant to give this to you at your party, but…” Ember took it gently from him, smiling. She opened it, and her eyes widened, lifting the gift out of the box. It was a necklace with the word Embrax hanging from a gold chain. The ‘x’ had a small pair of gems, a teal opal and a ruby, on it. “I-I made it with the 3D printer in the dorms, before school ended.” Thorax explained nervously. “I-It’s our names put together, you know?” “Heh, yeah, I get it.” Ember said, looking at it. “Ember and Thorax make Embrax.” “Heheh, yeah!” Thorax said eagerly. “I could’ve done Thember, but… I went with Embrax… d-do you like that better? I can remake it-” “Thorax.” Ember took his hoof, smiling at him. “I love it, it’s perfect.” Ember smiled and set it in his hoof, turning around. Thorax giggled and reached up, placing it around her neck and fastening the clasp. Pharynx chuckled, watching his brother hug Ember, the necklace glinting around her neck. He then looked at Tempest, and took a breath. He reached into his jacket, opening his mouth to say something, but then Sandbar trotted over. “Snowdrop!” he called, and she looked over. “Go with Ember, Celestia, and Luna, we need to find Rising Dawn and Nebula Star.” “Uh, they might need some muscle.” Spitfire pointed out. Ember looked over. “Hey! Are you saying I can’t be tough?” Ember asked. “Well, I’d feel better knowing you had a little extra backup…” Thorax said, followed by the others nodding agreement. Pharynx nodded, dropping the small box back into his jacket and giving an inaudible sigh. “Well, I could go.” Soarin said. “Me too.” Discord put in, eyeing Celestia, who blushed slightly. “No, you stay here.” Tempest said, as the group of five headed off. “Be safe.” Thorax told Ember, who nodded, blushing. “Alright, the rest of us will head to Secret Cottage. Let’s get ready.” Tempest said, and they nodded. Later on, that night, the group crept through the forest, Sandbar in the lead. Gallus stuck close by his side, the group following behind. Sandbar took Gallus’ claw and led him over to an ornate metal gate, opening it carefully and creeping in. Tempest rushed over, the Bell held carefully in her magic. She stood beside the couple as the others followed them. Sandbar then led them to the door and pushed it open loudly. They were met with silence. The cottage was empty. Pharynx rushed up the stairs as the others spread out, looking around. Spitfire conjured a flame with her wing, lighting a torch on the wall and grabbing it, using it to light the room. Pharynx came back down the stairs, shaking his head. “Not upstairs.” Then, they heard a frantic pounding. Sandbar, who was closest to the source-a door-unbolted and opened it. Blueblood was crouched beside the door, looking shell-shocked. “Blueblood?” Pharynx, Sandbar, Tempest, Thorax, and Gallus asked. He looked up at them. “I want my mommy…” Blueblood whispered. Sandbar reached down and pulled him up. “What happened to you, Blueblood?” Sandbar asked, and Blueblood seemed to register who it was. “Sandbar! Sandbar!” Blueblood grabbed him, shaking him slightly. “S-She’s gone? The door’s open… I’m free. Freedom!!” Blueblood rushed out of the cottage, continuing to shout happily. Rainbow began laughing as they left the cottage. “Well, clearly Yona was here…” Tempest sighed as they left Meanwhile, Celestia, Luna, Ember, Snowdrop, and Soarin ran over to the steps of the Museum of Equus History. There, they found both Rising Dawn and Nebula Star frozen in place, looks of worry on their stone faces. “No!” Luna cried, rushing to her mother. “Mommy! Mommy!” “Mother!” Celestia ran to Rising Dawn, touching her cheek. “M-Mom…? I-I don’t know if you can hear me… but… today’s been crazy…” The others watched silently, sitting down on the steps as Luna followed her cousin’s lead. “Everybody’s under an evil spell… but on the plus side… Dropsy and I are together now.” Luna said, smiling slightly. Snowdrop blushed as Ember and Soarin elbowed her. “We’ll figure out how to undo this, mom.” Celestia promised, hugging the statue. “We’ll figure out how to make this right.” The others smiled softly at the two girls, who then joined them. Luna snuggled up against Snowdrop and Celestia leaned dejectedly against Ember, who rubbed her back in comfort. The group headed back through the forest, and Spitfire sighed, stabbing the torch into the ground, the flame still flickering. “Alright, let’s get this Yona girl taken care of already.” she said, and Tempest chuckled. “What do you say Temp, about time to wrap things up?” Tempest chuckled and nodded, hoof-bumping her. Sandbar looked at them for a moment, then smiled. “You know, someday, you guys are gonna have to tell me how you all got teamed up.” “Oh, it’s because Tempest promised that you’d let all the kids off the Isle once this is over!” Thorax said cheerfully, and Tempest froze. Sandbar also stopped short, causing the rest of the group to stop as well. Gallus’ beak skewed nervously as he saw his mate’s expression. “Wait, you what?” Sandbar asked, and Tempest took a breath. “I-” “Wait!” Gallus stepped forwards. “I have something to tell you guys…” “Oh, sure, what?” Thorax asked Gallus took a breath, then closed his eyes. “...The kids aren’t coming off the Isle… we’re closing the barrier for good… and it was my idea.” “What?” they all stared at him. “I know, I-I’m sorry, Tempest didn’t know, that’s why she-” “No!” Tempest pushed Gallus out of the way gently. “No, he’s lying.” “So who’s right then?” Spitfire asked, glaring at her. Tempest screwed her eyes shut. “...He’s not lying about the barrier, but… it wasn’t his fault. I lied. I’m the one who forced Gallus to suggest closing the barrier, he didn’t want to…” Tempest glanced up at Thorax, Pharynx, and Sandbar. “But I made him StarBlight Swear it.” A Story To TellPharynx and Thorax’s eyes widened, gazes flicking up to her horn. Tempest’s voice shook as she continued. “I made him tell them what I thought. It was my idea to close the barrier. The program to bring more kids over is cancelled. Equus’ safety was more important…” Tempest stood still, waiting for the objections. And sure enough, they came. “Hold it.” Spitfire held up a wing, then trotted over to Tempest. “So we’re saving your precious kingdoms, and your flanks… for a lie?” “Spitfire-” “No.” Spitfire glared at her. “I knew it was a mistake to trust you. Always looking out for yourself.” “And you, King Sandbar.” Rainbow stormed up to him. “You’re probably just going to throw us all back in there, aren’t you?! Good job, forgetting that the kids on that Isle are your citizens too.” Sandbar tried to protest but all that came out was a muffled whimper. Gallus went over to him, hugging him tightly and burying his head in his shoulder. The two boys held each other, nothing but shame and sorrow wafting off them. “You know what?” Discord walked over to Tempest. “I actually thought you were brave. But you’re nothing but a coward! Too scared to even tell me I was never going to be able to see my father again!” “Discord, I-” Discord snatched the Bell from her aura and looked around, spotting the torch Spitfire had discarded. He walked over to it. “Discord, n-!” Tempest began, but Discord had thrown the Bell at the torch, then walked away. The Bell crashed into the fire with a hiss and Tempest shrieked. “Discord, no! No!” Tempest ran over and grabbed it in her magic, holding it up and shaking it. It no longer glowed with power, dull and faded. Tempest charged up her horn while the others silently watched her frantic attempts to fix the Bell. “Regain your former might and come back to life!” she shouted, but nothing happened. “Regain your former might and come back to life!!” Tempest bit her lip and looked over at Spitfire. Spitfire looked from the Bell down to her necklace. She touched a hoof to her necklace, then shook her head coldly. “Shame.” she said, putting a wing over Fleetfoot and beckoning for Rainbow to follow them. “Let’s find Soarin and leave them here to burn.” “No, wait!” Tempest called. “Spitfire!” Tempest then turned back to her friends. Gallus was cradling Monarch, the tiny kitten seeming very confused. Sandbar hugged him gently, looking at Tempest with anger and pain in his eyes. Thorax walked over to Pharynx, almost glaring at Tempest through tears. Pharynx stared at her, shock visible in every part of his expression. “G-Guys, I… I’m so sorry-” “If Luna were here she would be so disappointed in you.” Thorax snarled. “I’m sorry! I had to do something, I… I was afraid! There, I said it!” Tempest cried out, gritting her teeth. “I didn’t want to lose my friends! I had to protect Equus, it’s the one thing I can do!” “Closing the barrier was your idea.” Pharynx said, as though still trying to process it. “I did it for us!” Tempest insisted. “I did it for our life!” “For our life?!” Thorax shouted. “What about everyone we left behind?! What about Smolder and Gabby? If they hadn’t come over now would you have left them behind too!? If… If Ocellus and Gilda and I hadn’t come when we did, would you have left us?!” Tempest’s eyes widened. “No! I-!” “Then why leave them behind?! Because they’re not your friends?!” Thorax screamed, storming over to her. “You promised them! You were supposed to be their only hope! I thought you would stand up for them, for us!” Tempest looked down at the ground, struggling to hold in tears. Pharynx went over and put a hoof on his brother’s shoulders, glaring at the ground beneath his hooves. “And to think I was almost going to… forget it.” Pharynx spat, dragging his brother back to the others. “You lied to them Tempest. You lied to us.” “I thought we were supposed to be your family.” Thorax whispered, pressing against his brother. Tempest looked up at them, tears pooling in her eyes. “Thorax…” “Save it.” Thorax spat, hugging his brother tightly. Gallus and Sandbar held each other, Gallus reaching a claw down to Monarch. “G-Guys, come on, I had no choice!” Tempest screamed, but before any of them could even register what she said, there was a blinding flash, and Tempest shielded her eyes with a hoof. When she moved her hoof, her eyes widened. They were stone. All of them, frozen in place, expressions varying from angry to sad. “No…” Tempest sank down onto her haunches, sobbing. “No…” She was all alone, without any idea what to do. Tempest sobbed, tears streaming down her cheeks. She began to sing, voice breaking. “H-Here I am, all alone I won’t say I don’t deserve it The ones I love have turned into stone And I know it’s all on me.” Tempest stood, still crying, and walked to the stone creatures, reaching and touching Pharynx’s cheek, tears falling. “I knew I had a cause to stand for But I didn’t even serve it I saw myself in a light that wasn’t the truth.” Tempest pressed her forehead against Pharynx’s, her horn sparking as she kissed his forehead, crying. She continued singing, voice growing stronger as she moved to run a hoof against Thorax’s head, then walk to Gallus and Sandbar, placing a hoof gently on the stone Monarch’s head. “Why did I tell those lies? It just proved I was unworthy There’s no solid ground for me to stand on now A pile of lies was never going to be a good foundation You just can’t build a palace if the stone’s made of sand!” Tempest strode to the now burned-out torch, gripping the Bell tightly. “This is not my father's dark desires! And no, it’s not my uncle's bell of ire! When my story comes into the light I’ll make sure the story that they write will go-” Tempest began striding through the forest, the Bell held up in her aura. “Once upon a time, I stood up for what I believed Once upon a time the monster was me! Once upon a misspent fillyhood I will face myself and speak my truth! That’s how I’ll write my story! Right now Once upon a time I still tried harder! Once upon a time I tried again and again! Once upon taking the braver choice I took a risk and used my voice! That’s how I’ll write my story Right now.” Tempest moved steadily through the trees, sure of her strides. She raced out, seeing Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Rainbow walking across the grounds of the castle. “Spitfire!” Tempest shouted, chasing the three. “Spitfire, stop! Please, stop!” Tempest skidded to a halt in front of them, forcing them to stop. “I need your help, please! We have a chance if we do this together!” Spitfire blinked at her. “Your friends kick you to the curb? I don’t blame them.” “Spitfire, when you captured Sandbar, he saw something in you, and I saw it too today! You care! You care about everycreature, and Equus is worth saving!” Tempest exclaimed, eyes full of desperation. “Help us… please…” “You can talk pretty all you want.” Fleetfoot told Tempest. “But she’th already made up her mind.” “You brought this on yourself, Tempest.” Spitfire said, walking off with her crewmates. “You figure out how to fix it.” With that, they were gone. Tempest, panting, turned, continuing to sing. A memory flooded into her head, of her battle against her father at Sandbar’s coronation, of her friends helping her, Luna, Pharynx, and Gallus stand up against their parents. “Life is not like a storybook Though it can unfold in chapters If you turn the page and start to make peace There still won’t be a guarantee of a happy end Step into the greatness you can be before the book closes! So when the story is all said and done they will say,” Tempest climbed the steps up to an outdoor balcony, now remembering when she had had doubts about herself. When her friends had done everything they could to bring her back home, and save Sandbar. When she first discovered Storm Breaker, while she was fighting Spitfire. “Once upon a time, I went higher! Once upon a time, I tried to make it right! Once upon a time that’s bound tight I changed my heart to try and change their minds! It will be how I write my story! This is how I write my story! I’ll finally see my true story’s end! Right now!” Tempest finished, standing strong despite the dried tears on her face, reflecting back to the most recent memories, of what she could scarcely believe was just earlier that day. Celebrating Gallus’ engagement, when Grogar attempted to escape, getting the Bell from him, then when the others turned to stone. And now, an unknown future. “Help me Tempest!!!” Stormbreaker's Strike“Help me Tempest!!” Discord’s voice rang out, and Tempest’s eyes widened, turning to see lightning crackling from the highest tower. “Yeah, come save your little friend, Tempest!” Yona’s voice shouted, cackling. Tempest growled and called on the storms, summoning Storm Breaker. She rose into the air, spreading the wings of electricity and flying up to the tower as fast as she could. Yona stood on the turret, Discord cowering behind her. Tempest shot a blast of electricity at Yona, but she countered it with the Staff, laughing. Yona fired her own blast, but Tempest swerved and dodged it. Yona continued blasting at Tempest. “Tempest, help!” Discord shouted, as Yona dragged him over and held him tight in one hoof. “Careful, wouldn’t want to shock your little VC buddy.” Yona laughed. Below them, Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot flew back over, drawn by the noise. They looked up, seeing Tempest hovering in her Storm Breaker form as Yona laughed from the turret. Tempest pulled out the Bell, blasting it with her horn in a desperate attempt to recharge it. “She doethn’t thtand a chance without the Bell.” Fleetfoot said “Tempest, help me!” Discord cried, struggling. Unfortunately, his last shout was enough of a distraction for Yona to blast Tempest, hitting her square in the chest. She cried out, wings flapping desperately to regain control. Yona didn’t seem to care, laughing. Then, Discord managed to break free and tried to run for it. “Hold still you little brat!” Yona shouted, chasing him around the small area of the turret. “Come on!” Spitfire spread her wings and shot up to the struggling filly. Fleetfoot and Rainbow followed her, and together the three managed to catch Tempest, stopping her fall. “Sp-Spitfire?” Tempest asked, as Spitfire grabbed her by the shoulders, flapping her wings to steady her as Rainbow and Fleetfoot supported her sides. “We’re stronger together.” Spitfire said, her necklace glowing brightly. “We’re stronger together, Tempest. I’m right here.” Tempest breathed a sigh of relief, then lifted up the bell. Together, the girls shouted out. “Regain your former might and come back to life! Regain your former might and come back to life!” they cried, Tempest doing so with fresh tears in her eyes. After a tense pause, the Bell began to glow and crackle. It pulsed, shining with light, glowing even brighter than before. “Yes!” Rainbow cheered, and Spitfire and Tempest smiled at each other. “Alright, I can catch myself now, you guys have to get out of the way, I don’t know for sure what will happen!” Tempest called. “Alright, we’re going to drop you on three… one… two…” Spitfire loosened her grip. “Three!” On three, the three pegasi let go and flew off, getting out of the way. Tempest spread her electric wings wide and soared back up to the turret, seeing Yona intimidating Discord, aiming the Staff at him. “You want some of this? Do you?!” “N-No!” Discord shrieked, snapping his fingers desperately, but in his panicked state all he managed to do was make a cotton candy cloud appear. He yelped and shielded himself as best as possible. Tempest growled, lifting up the Bell in her magic as she hovered threateningly over Yona. Yona turned and laughed wickedly, raising the Staff as Tempest raised the Bell. Then, just as Yona fired a blast from the Staff, Tempest rang the bell. A blast of stormy looking, yellow energy shot out and met Yona’s blast. The two were then in a battle of wills, each trying to force their beam of magic to the other. Discord cheered, and Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot shouted encouragement from below. Tempest unleashed a yell of rage, ringing the Bell again. “That’s for trying to hurt my friends!” she shouted. The second force of magic from the Bell pushed away Yona’s blast. It hit the Staff, and Yona collapsed, laying still on the turret. Spitfire whooped and Fleetfoot kissed her, as Rainbow cheered. Discord stood up, watching as Tempest flew down to him, landing on the turret. She stayed in her Storm Breaker form in case Yona got up, but relaxed her posture. “Tempest!” Discord ran to her and hugged her. “Discord, are you okay?” Tempest asked, and he nodded. Then, they saw Yona. She was back in the very same outfit she’d been in earlier that day, when Sandbar had proposed to Gallus. But she wasn’t moving, just lying there on her side, her eyes shut. The crown and the staff lay beside her. Tempest, eyes wide, moved over to her. “Yona…” Tempest felt her neck, eyes going even wider. “Oh no…” “You’re only half me, and that’s from your satyr father. It won’t do everything for you that it does for me.” “No no no…” Tempest murmured, as Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Rainbow flew up to the turret. “Something wrong?” Spitfire asked, then gasped, seeing Tempest staring in shock at Yona’s body. “Oh no.” “There’s a way…” Tempest murmured. “There’s got to be. Spitfire, go get help, the others should be unspelled by now but just in case, go for Celestia and the others, they’re probably still free.” “On it.” Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot shot off without another word. Tempest crouched over Yona as Discord moved closer. Her eyes watered as she stared at the young yak. Back in Luna’s little castle, the others were beginning to wake. Gabby and Gilda sat up, feathers ruffled, blinking in confusion. Smolder shifted slightly, yawning, and Ocellus opened her eyes, blushing when she found her muzzle inches from Smolder’s. Smolder giggled and pulled her in for a kiss. Garble, who was sitting up, rolled his eyes, but smiled all the same. “Anyone else hungry?” Gabby asked. “I bet that cake’s still good.” Smolder said, sitting up and holding Ocellus in her arms. “You guys could just pick out the gems and we’ll eat ‘em.” “Yay! Cake!” Gabby squealed, and the group ran to the kitchen. Celestia and Luna had begun to stand up, sighing, when there was a sudden bright flash. In an instant, Nebula Star and Rising Dawn were back. “Mom!” “Mommy!” The two alicorn fillies rushed to their mothers and hugged them tightly. Their mothers hugged back. “Celestia, what happened?” “It’s okay mom. The spell must’ve broken… that means Tempest and the others fixed everything.” Celestia said “Hey!” Spitfire shot up to them, and Rising Dawn and Nebula Star immediately ignited their horns. “No! They’re on our side!” Luna called, looking at Spitfire. “What’s wrong?” “Tempest needs help! Yona’s hurt!” The others, still frozen in place where Tempest left them, were back in a flash of light as well. They looked around in confusion, realizing Tempest was gone. “Temp!” Pharynx shouted, wings buzzing as he took off running. “Come on!” Sandbar called, and Gallus scooped up Monarch, the two of them and Thorax following Pharynx at a run. Tempest still crouched over Yona, head low in grief. She heard hoofsteps and flapping wings, knowing the others must have returned. “We’re going to fix this Yona, I promise.” she said, tears falling. “I’m not losing you. You deserve a second chance.” “Tempest!” Pharynx burst up onto the turret, then saw her lying beside Yona, crying. “Temp…” “Phar… she…” Tempest choked back a sob. “I didn’t mean to…” Pharynx rushed over and caught her in a hug, letting her bury her head in his shoulder. He held her gently as the others caught up. They were soon followed by Spitfire flying up to them, leading the others, Rising Dawn and Nebula Star included. Gasps came from all around her, but Tempest tuned it all out, pressing against her boyfriend. “It’s alright Tempest.” he murmured, holding her. “We’re going to fix this, it’ll be alright, I promise.” Decisions and New DifferencesTempest paced around in Yona’s dorm room. She was still in her Storm Breaker form, too upset to properly change back. The others were also in the room, watching Tempest and Yona nervously. Snowdrop and Luna sat with Celestia and Pharynx, closest to Tempest. The others were scattered in various positions around the room. Spitfire and Fleetfoot had curled up by the window, while Sandbar was snuggling into Gallus by the fireplace, his beard gone. Ember and Thorax were holding each other’s hoof/claw, watching from where they were standing by the door. Discord was sitting at the vanity, though he no longer made any movement to mess with Yona’s things. Yona herself was lying in her bed, still unconscious. Tempest paused momentarily to stare at her. Pharynx glanced up at her, concerned. “She’s slipping away, isn’t she?” Celestia asked softly, and Luna nodded solemnly. Tempest closed her eyes, gritting her teeth. “Guys… there’s only one creature who might be able to fix this, and it’s Grogar.” “Grogar?” Sandbar asked. “There’s no way he’d do it.” “No. He might do it for me.” Tempest told him, and Luna’s head shot up. “Temp-” “No, it’s alright.” Tempest took a breath. “I’m done lying.” Tempest turned to the others, opening her eyes. “Grogar is my uncle. My father’s brother.” Sandbar blinked in shock, then nodded. “Alright. We’ll have to send some guards to get him.” “My crew and I can hitch a ride. The Isle is my home, someone needs to be there to protect it.” Spitfire looked at her team. “And I know if some of them want to stay here, they’ve got packing to do.” “Hey, we’re your crew. We’re not going anywhere.” Rainbow said. “A captain always needs her first mate.” Soarin added, saluting her with a wing. “I’m going too. I really wish I could be in both places. But I need my dad.” Discord said. “Of course. The Isle will be in good hooves.” Tempest murmured, then looked away from the others. Pharynx walked over to her, placing a hoof on her shoulder. “Tempest, it’s okay.” he gently nuzzled her, lifting her chin and looking her in the eye. “We don’t care who your uncle is, and because he is your uncle, Yona might be saved.” “I just…” Tempest closed her eyes. “I’ve been trying to forget that we’re related this whole time.” “I know.” Pharynx gently stroked her mane, kissing the base of her broken horn. “But I promise, it doesn’t matter to any of us.” “You don’t speak for everyone Phar…” Pharynx sighed, then looked at Sandbar, giving him a nod. Sandbar’s eyes widened, then he gestured for the others to follow him to the other side of the room. Tempest watched the exchange in confusion, until Pharynx guided her eyes back to him, reaching into his jacket. “Been trying to do this all day…” Pharynx murmured. “You want proof that no one cares? I’ll give you proof.” Pharynx then pulled out the velvet box. Tempest gasped and stared at him in shock. Pharynx blushed slightly, opening the box. He held it out, showing her what was inside; a golden ring with a violet purple amethyst in the center. “I’ll always love you Tempest.” Pharynx told her, eyes watering. “I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Tempest Shadow, will you-” “Just give me the ring you big sap!” Tempest pulled him close and kissed him. Pharynx wrapped his hooves around her neck and kissed back, using his magic to slide the ring onto her horn. They pulled apart, and Pharynx chuckled. “So that’s a yes then?” Tempest blushed and gently punched him in the shoulder. He chuckled, hugging her. “I think you can transform back now…” “Right…” Tempest smiled at him, as the others came over. Luna hugged her friend tightly, squealing slightly. “Two engagement parties to plan! Two weddings to plan!” Luna cried eagerly. “I think she’s in heaven.” Snowdrop giggled Tempest chuckled, then closed her eyes, horn sparking. Her own magic washed over her and the electricity crackling around her body vanished. However, when the magic reached her wings, there was a blinding flash, and everyone stepped back. Tempest covered her eyes, then moved her hoof as the flash disappeared, hearing gasps from the others. “What is it?” she asked, and Spitfire pointed at her back. Tempest turned, and her mouth dropped open in shock. She had wings. They were the exact same mulberry shade as her coat, except for the very outer feathers, which were electric blue, like her magic. “Y-You’re an alicorn!” Luna and Celestia exclaimed. “Horn’s still broken though.” Spitfire said. “Makes sense, you probably wouldn’t be able to do that lightning thing without it.” Tempest blinked, spreading the wings. They were real, smoothly joined with her body. Luna and Celestia looked at each other. “We have to tell mom and auntie!” they said as one, and the two cousins promptly rushed out, frantic. “I… wait, does this mean I’m royalty now?” Tempest asked “You probably don’t have to be if you don’t want to.” Gallus said, and Sandbar nodded in confirmation. “Good.” Tempest kissed Pharynx’s cheek. “I think I’d be better off serving the army beside Pharynx anyway.” Pharynx chuckled and blushed. Tempest then moved over to Spitfire. “I think Luna was right all along.” she told her, folding her new wings to her side-that was going to take some getting used to. “We really could’ve been friends.” Tempest turned to the others. “And I’m really sorry that I lied to all of you, I’ll tell Luna too when she gets back. You deserved so much better than that.” “...You were just trying to do the right thing.” Thorax said, giving her a soft smile. “It’s okay.” “Agreed.” Spitfire reached and laid a hoof on her shoulder. “We’re good.” “I get it.” Pharynx lifted Tempest’s chin and kissed her cheek. “You just wanted to protect your home like you swore you would. I should’ve realized that instead of getting mad at you.” Tempest smiled at him softly, then looked over at the others. “S-So, we’re good?” “We’re good.” they all agreed as one, and Tempest laughed. “Now…” Sandbar looked over at Yona. “Let’s go get the only creature who can fix this.” Tempest nodded, taking a breath. “I’ll talk to him when he gets here.” “Are you sure?” Pharynx asked, and Tempest nodded. “I’m ready. This has been long overdue.” RevivalsTempest was unsure how much time had passed when the carriage drove up to the school. She watched from the window, Pharynx at her side. Gallus and Sandbar stood beside Yona’s bed, where she still lay. Rising Dawn and Shell Scallop stood there as well, one on either side of Prince Rutherford. Sea Kelp paced the room. Tempest was oblivious to all of this, flinching slightly as she saw a blue hoof exit the carriage after the guards. “It’s okay.” Pharynx murmured. “I’ll be right here.” “I-I know.” Tempest said, giving him a confirming nod. Soon, there was a knock at the door of the dorm. Sea Kelp answered the door, then stepped back. Tempest and Pharynx turned to face the door as Grogar entered, his hooves bound in shackles. “Thank you for coming.” Tempest told him, walking over. “Didn’t have much choice.” he told her, voice cold as ice. Sandbar walked closer. “Can you help her?” he asked, glancing at Yona. “Since when do heroes care about villains?” Grogar scoffed, and the room fell silent. “That’s right. Because she’s one of your own.” Tempest opened her mouth, but Grogar spoke louder. “When one of you tries to destroy the world, it’s just an error in judgement. But when it’s one of us, it’s ‘lock ‘em up and throw away the key’. Right, sea monster?” he asked, looking at Sea Kelp. Sea Kelp looked away, and Grogar rolled his eyes. He then raised his forelegs, giving them a look when they jumped. “I’ll need use of my hooves.” Tempest glanced at Sandbar, who nodded. She stood before Grogar, using her magic to unlock the shackles, the engagement ring sparkling in the light from her aura and her new wings opening slightly as she did. Grogar raised a brow at them, but before he could say anything, Tempest stepped back, standing by Pharynx. She levitated over the Bell, and it locked onto the collar around his neck. Grogar grinned as a rush of power visibly surged through him, his eyes gleaming. “Haven’t lost my touch.” He walked past Sea Kelp, locking eyes with him. The two glared at each other, Grogar growling slightly. “Uncle.” Tempest spoke, and he glanced at her, then rolled his eyes, carefully walking to Yona’s bed, the shackles on his back legs rattling. Grogar stood at the end of the bed, then raised a hoof and touched it to the Bell, before waving it in an intricate pattern over Yona’s body. The room turned red briefly, and everyone backed up. Then, Yona sat up in bed, eyes opening. Everyone there gasped, and Tempest pressed against Pharynx. “Yona!” Prince Rutherford hugged her gently, as Grogar stepped back, letting the magic fade. Rising Dawn, Shell Scallop, and Sea Kelp stared from him to Yona in shock. Yona looked around, then spotted Sandbar, Gallus, Tempest, and Pharynx. “...Tell me it was a nightmare.” she whispered desperately. Tempest shook her head. “I wish I could. But it’s over now.” Yona stood slightly, then reached and hugged Gallus. “I’m so sorry… I wanted to hurt you… all of you…” Gallus hugged her back. “It’s not all your fault. I’ve owed you an apology for a long time.” “So have I.” Sandbar put a hoof on Yona’s shoulder. Prince Rutherford stepped closer. “And I have owed you one too.” he told them, bowing to Gallus, who bowed back. The guards surrounded Grogar again, and he shrugged. “Oh, right.” The guards began to lead him away, and Tempest followed them. Pharynx went after her at a distance. “Uncle Grogar.” Tempest called, and he turned. She took a breath. “...Now I’m going to have to miss you all over again.” Grogar raised a brow. “Really?” “From what I remember, you were the fun uncle.” she said, smirking slightly. Grogar chuckled. “Well, thanks for a glimpse of the sun.” he told her. Tempest moved closer, then hugged him. Grogar, surprised, hugged back. She then pulled away, and he pointed to the ring on her horn. “He better look out for you.” he said, glancing at Pharynx, who blushed and ducked back into the room. Grogar smirked, then his eyes then went to her wings. “Though it seems you can look out for yourself.” Tempest nodded, and Grogar smiled slightly. He bowed his head to her, and with a spark from her shattered horn, the Bell lifted off his collar, setting itself in Tempest’s hooves. Grogar chuckled, then let the guards lead him away. Tempest held the Bell close against her chest, taking a deep breath as she fought back tears. Pharynx stepped out and hugged her gently, kissing her cheek. “Hey, it’s okay.” Pharynx told her, smiling softly. “We did it.” She smiled back, nodding. “Yeah. We did.” Pharynx nuzzled her, then kissed her horn. “Come on. Let’s give Sandbar and Gallus some time to properly apologize to Yona. We need to head over to Luna’s or she’ll have our heads for not being there on time. Our outfits for Gal and Sand’s engagement party won’t size themselves, as she’d say.” Tempest nodded, smiling at him and wiping her eyes, still clutching the Bell. “Yeah. Come on.” The party was at the area where the bridge usually formed to cross to the Hidden Isle. Tempest stood with Pharynx, Luna, and Snowdrop below a balcony above the crowd. It was identical to the one they’d stood on on the Hidden Isle to announce who would be coming over, what felt like so long ago. Thorax and Ember stood nearby, talking eagerly. Yona stood with her father and Blueblood, smiling happily. Gabby, Gilda, Garble, Smolder, and Ocellus were in a huddle near the two, clearly making plans for things to do in Equus. Tempest smiled sadly at the group. Discord should be among them, but he had gone back to the Isle with Spitfire and her team. “Oh, there they are.” Luna said, pointing as Gallus and Sandbar walked out of a tunnel and up to the balcony, greeted by cheers. “Everyone, Gallus and I would like to thank you for celebrating our engagement with us today.” Sandbar said, then looked to Gallus. “I couldn’t be prouder, or happier, to call you my King.” Gallus giggled, smiling at Sandbar, who then beckoned for Pharynx, Tempest, and Luna to come up and join them. They did, accepting glasses of punch from the servants as they walked over. They stood by Rising Dawn and Nebula Star. “And so, raise your glasses.” Sandbar said, smiling. “To our future King of Equus, and his friends, our table of advisors!” “To our King of Equus!” they chorused, drinking from their glasses. Pharynx nudged Tempest, and she chuckled, turning to Gallus. “Speech, your specialness!” Tempest teased “Ah yes, speech, oh fancy one!” Pharynx echoed, causing laughter all over. “W-Well, I…” Gallus trailed off, then looked at Sandbar. “Sandy… I can’t.” Bridging the DivideSandbar took his claw gently, and Tempest put a hoof on his shoulder. “I can’t be King of Equus.” Gallus said, closing his eyes. “I won’t turn my back on the Isle.” Murmurs of confusion came from the crowd, and Tempest gently tapped Gallus’ shoulder, beckoning for him to move out of the way. He did, and she stepped to the front. “I think I can explain.” she told the crowd. “A week ago, a decision was made to close off the barrier forever.” Gasps echoed through the crowd. Tempest nodded. “I will admit that it was my idea.” she added, causing more gasps. “But it was wrong. I was wrong. Closing the barrier for good will solve nothing.” Even more confused murmurs began to spread through the crowd. Tempest still continued on. “You cannot live in fear, it won’t actually protect you from anything. There’s no way of knowing where the bad will come from, or where the heroes are going to come from. Without Spitfire and her sky pirates, I can guarantee Equus would be gone. And without Grogar…” Tempest paused, then spoke. “My uncle…” The loudest gasps yet came from the crowd. But they let Tempest finish. “Without him, Yona would be gone.” she said, and as murmurs started, they all looked at Tempest for more. “We are all capable of good and evil, no matter which side of the barrier we come from.” “That’s why I can’t be King of just Equus.” Gallus said, stepping over. “I have to be King of the Isle too. Sandbar as well. It’s time to take the barrier down, forever.” “We can’t do that.” Sea Kelp butted in, stepping closer, but Shell Scallop tugged him back. “It’s up to us dad.” Sandbar said, looking over at him, then back to Gallus, then to the crowd. “I chose to be a leader who moves forward. It’s time for forgiveness. It’s time for new beginnings. It’s time to make a change. The barrier will come down!” Gallus hugged him tightly, and Sandbar kissed his cheek. The crowd all began cheering, the Isle kids cheering the loudest. Sandbar and Gallus turned to Tempest. “Bring it down, Tempest.” Sandbar said gently. Tempest smiled softly, then stepped forwards, beckoning for the rest of the original group, the one who took down the Storm King and the other villains, to join them. Celestia, Snowdrop, Ember, Gilda, Ocellus, and Thorax walked up to them. Rising Dawn walked over, lifting her crown off her head and bowing to Tempest. Tempest blushed, then lifted the crown in her aura. She set it down on her head, her wings opening as she did. Tempest stood in the middle of all her friends… and ignited her horn. “To make this world become a better place, we must be able to meet face to face!” she shouted. The crown gleamed in the light, amplifying the spell, which soared over the ocean, and in a flash, the golden barrier was gone and the constant storm clouds vanished. A white bridge began to form between the island and the mainland, with a silver and gold colored suspension. The crowd cheered and applauded as the group of creatures on the balcony smiled. Tempest giggled and leaned into Pharynx, who nuzzled her. The crowd began walking across the bridge, as on the Isle, all the kids and adults began heading for the new bridge in awe. Spitfire and her crew were towards the back, looking around in awe. “Heh… my plan.” Spitfire said, smirking. She then flew up to the balcony on her side of the barrier, her crew and Discord beside her. On Equus’ side, Tempest passed the crown back to Rising Dawn, then hugged her. She then walked to the edge of the balcony and began to sing. “It’s time to bring things together Time for a brand new day.” On the Isle, Spitfire chuckled and also began to sing. “Let’s put things in motion, break down what’s kept us apart.” Tempest sang louder. “No more division, it’s down One big team with a vision-” “Unite!” they sang as one, then Spitfire continued. “So we stand now living and marching In the light, one to two, one to two, like-” “I see you!” Tempest called “You see me!” Spitfire echoed “Imperfection!” “Yet perfect to me!” “When we’re face to face we can see our similarities Like-” they sang as one “Day or night!” Spitfire called “Wrong and right!” Tempest sang “We come together and have a good time!” The two different groups smiled at each other from the balconies, singing as Yona and Blueblood joined Tempest’s friends. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this!” Spitfire then took off, flying off the balcony and landing with a strut on the bridge. Tempest spread her own wings and soared down, landing on her end and walking confidently. “Believing in giving second chances!” Spitfire sang “And we’re starting off today!” Discord joined in “Gonna keep marching on in a better land!” Rainbow cheered “Our world’s gonna be a better, way better space!” Fleetfoot and Spitfire sang together The VCs began to cross the bridge, Spitfire in the lead, as Tempest did the same on their side. “Come on into unconditional love!” Luna called “Unity will be a new start for everyone!” Gallus sang “Harmony is a mission that’s marching-” Pharynx began “Into the light, one to two, one to two, like,” they all sang “I see you!” Tempest’s group shouted “You see me!” Spitfire’s crew and Discord echoed “Imperfection!” “Yet perfect to me!” “When we’re face to face we can see our similarities Like-” they sang as one “Day or night!” Celestia and Luna sang “Wrong and right!” Rainbow and Soarin sang “We come together and have a good time!” they all sang The groups met in the center of the bridge and began dancing together, smiling. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this! We’ve reunited through this!” Tempest and her group, all the kids who were originally from the Isle, turned and faced the Equus kids, standing by Spitfire. They all began to move in sync, the Equus kids joining in with synchronous moves of their own. “Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down! Down!” Gallus smiled and ran to Sandbar, hugging him as Luna ran to Snowdrop. Pharynx and Tempest strutted across, Thorax and Ocellus following with Smolder and Garble. Spitfire and the others seemed hesitant, but then Sandbar bowed to them, followed by Gallus, and then everyone did. Spitfire laughed and stepped across, leading the others. She ran and hugged Tempest, who hugged back. They all began dancing in a wave-like pattern, the couples spinning around and the single creatures joining up in pairs. They jumped up and down, span, slid, and twirled, then began singing again. “It’s time to tear this down Tear this down! We’re gonna rock the ground Oh, we’re gonna rock the ground! Everycreature from all around All around! Can be what they want with this Let’s go! We’re stronger now with this! Yeah! We’ve become united with this! It’s time to tear this down Tear this down! We’re gonna rock the ground Oh, we’re gonna rock the ground! Everycreature from all around All around! Can be what they want with this Let’s go! We’re stronger now with this! Stronger with each other! We’ve become united with this! Hey! Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down!” With that, they stopped, panting with effort and amazement. More people were making their way over, and Tempest hugged Pharynx, laughing. Smolder and Garble were running to their parents, Discord was being spun around by his father, and Gabby was dancing around eagerly. “Hey Thorax?” Ember asked, and he paused, looking at her. “I’m a little nervous about meeting your mom…” “Oh don’t worry, I’ll chase her off.” Pharynx chuckled darkly. “Been meaning to have a few words with her.” “Hey Pharynx!” Soarin ran over. “Rainbow, Fleet, and I want to try and convince Spitfire to go exploring for the next year, you in?” “Sure, I might join you a couple times.” Pharynx smirked. “Like I said, there’s gotta be more changelings out there somewhere, right?” The two hoof-bumped and then Soarin ran off again. Tempest grinned at Pharynx knowingly, and he shrugged, kissing her cheek. “You wouldn’t mind, right?” “Not at all. As long as one of those trips can be our honeymoon, I’m not going to some boring hotel for a week. I need action.” Tempest said, wrapping a wing around him, and he chuckled. “For you, my stormcloud, I’ll do it.” he said, and Tempest blushed, kissing him. A little ways away, Spitfire was dancing with Luna, laughing. “Heh, you know what? Temp came through after all.” Spitfire said, and Luna smiled, looking at her friend. “She always does.” Gallus and Sandbar smiled, dancing in the center of it all. “You worried about your grandfather?” Sandbar asked “Honestly? I’m more worried about him meeting Monarch.” Gallus picked up the kitten and placed him on his back. “Don’t worry, I’ll protect him.” Sandbar said, and Gallus giggled. “Me too.” “So, how’s this for an engagement party?” Sandbar asked, grinning. Gallus laughed and kissed his cheek. “Perfect!” Gallus hugged him tightly. “Let’s just hope our wedding is even better.” “I’ll be marrying you.” Sandbar cupped his cheek with a hoof, smiling at the griffon. “Of course it will be.” Gallus blushed and leaned in, kissing the pony lovingly. The two did not go unnoticed by most of their friends, the group gathering around and ‘aww’ing at them. Except for two. Tempest and Pharynx were walking back to the bridge. Grogar had just crossed it. “So, will I be invited to the wedding?” Grogar asked, and Tempest and Pharynx blushed. “Y-Yes sir.” Pharynx told him, while Tempest hugged him. “If you’ll agree to give me away.” Tempest told him, smirking. “You were always better at the whole dad thing than my father anyway.” “It would be my honor.” Grogar told her, then eyed Pharynx. “I’m sure you two will be very happy together.” Tempest smiled and nuzzled up to Pharynx, who draped a hoof around her neck. Grogar gave him a look and made an ‘I’m watching you’ gesture with his hoof. Pharynx gulped, and Tempest shoved Grogar lightly, shaking her head at him while smiling. “Welcome to Equus, Uncle Grogar.” Tempest chuckled, she and Pharynx leading him the rest of the way across the bridge. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this! We’ve reunited through this!” Tempest, Pharynx, Gallus, Luna, and Sandbar ran down an aisle the crowd created for them, followed by Celestia, Ember, Snowdrop, Thorax, Ocellus, and Gilda, then went Spitfire and her crew. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this! We’ve reunited through this!” Sandbar’s parents followed them with Grogar, Nebula Star, and Rising Dawn, then Smolder, Garble, their parents, Discord and Diataro, and Gabby. The rest of the crowd followed in groups, laughing and dancing. “Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down!” “Do you guys ever miss it?” Luna asked. She, Tempest, Pharynx, and Gallus were standing at the bridge again, alone. “Yeah…” Pharynx murmured. “You think they miss us?” Tempest asked, smirking. “Yeah.” Gallus said, chuckling. “Cause we’re rotten,” Tempest began, holding out her hoof, and the others placed their hooves and claw over hers. “At the core.” they finished. “Hey, last one over the bridge-” Gallus began “Is a rotten carrot!” they all shouted, then raced across the bridge, laughing happily. Finally, there was a way across. And a way back home.
The Next FourAuthor's Note And so, the final story of this trilogy begins! ~Melody Song The Next Four Equus, it’s beautiful, isn’t it? I’m Tempest, daughter of the Storm King, and this is my home. It wasn’t always. I was born on the Hidden Isle, where all the villains of the United Kingdoms of Equus had been banished, locked up forever. That is, until Prince Sandbar decided their kids, us, should have a chance. So four Villain Creatures, me and my friends, the VCs, came to Equus. Long story short, Sandbar’s the king now, my friend Gallus is his boyfriend, and we are about to head back to the Hidden Isle to pick the next of what will hopefully be a long line of new VCs who get to come to Equus and find their happily ever afters too. “Hey, check it out!” a filly holding a newspaper in wavering magic from her horn ran up to two other fillies. “Sweet Rising Dawn! It’s-” one of her friends began “VC Day!” all three squealed “I hope I get picked!” another filly exclaimed, little wings buzzing. Elsewhere on the Hidden Isle, four familiar creatures strode through the streets. Two leapt between the buildings in a parkour like fashion. Another strutted below them while the fourth flew above them. As they walked, catching others’ attention, they began to sing. “From each and every corner time to take the test! All the kids around, you’re some of the best! Hit the streets, it’s your time, turn up, it’s your chance Time to get on your hooves no time for a second glance!” The group spread out, and the broken horned unicorn in a black cloak, Tempest, walked beside the changeling Pharynx, who was in a black leather jacket. Luna, the blue alicorn, flew past them, wearing a long blue dress, and the griffon Gallus headed to a building marked with the word Orphanage on it, tweaking his gold and blue jacket in pride. Tempest and Pharynx began singing together, smirking. “Anyone wants to be like us?” Gallus flew through the orphanage, singing as he pulled blankets off of some of the foals to wake them. “All the kids from Equus know what's up!” Luna strutted into the hair salon, gesturing for a dragon and griffon, Smolder and Gabby, to come over. They did, hugging her. She smiled and hugged back, singing. “Your life will change today, I promise it's the day!” The group continued on, Smolder and Gabby following Luna. They continued to sing. “Follow after us, you know we paved the way!” Tempest and Luna joined up again, smiling at the creatures crowding the streets. Pharynx and Gallus joined them. “Everyone come chase your dreams, It’s the time to show your stuff! Everyone’s gonna get a chance They said if you were born here you’re vile- Well, it’s good to be vile! We’re proof of that, Used to be hidden now we’re on every map! Used to steal but now we’re taking it back! And remember it's- Vile!” They ran down the streets, gathering a crowd of children. “You’ve got this, raise your hooves high Know your pride! It’s good to be vile!” Tempest stopped in an alleyway, lifting a bit out from inside her cloak and tossing it down the alley. A lion’s paw reached out and caught it, followed by the creature the paw belonged to. A draconequus boy named Discord, who gave the filly a fanged grin. She beckoned for him to follow her, chuckling. Tempest and Luna joined up together with their groups, dancing and singing. “I wanna see you coming after us! Wanna see you strutting what you got! Show us your pride, show us your shout! We’re from the Hidden Isle that's what it's all about! We’re here to celebrate this day! We know you're up for it, let's get it going! You don't need a reminder! There’s more to come, it’s gonna be the best! Take a bow, that's all we ask! You're from the Isle, don’t hide your past!” From the different parts of the Isle, all four sang as one. “It’s good to be vile! We’re proof of that, Used to be hidden now we’re on every map Used to steal but now we’re taking it back And remember it's- Vile! You’ve got this, raise your hooves high! Know your pride! It’s good to be Vile!” Gallus and Pharynx flew down a street, weaving through the air together, rapping. “This is our natural style, you know it's always been this way! ‘Cause you can take a creature far from home but you can't take home away! If you want to get across well here's a chance! Scream it loud all around, don't ignore it at first glance! Time's running out so hurry up, make haste! The Isle isn't our only space!” A red dragon named Garble, who was Smolder’s brother, came dashing out and bumped claws with Gallus, banging his shoulder against Pharynx’s, who smirked at him. “So when I say ‘Villain’ you say ‘Creatures’! Villain! Creatures! Villain! Creatures!” They chanted, the entire group and the crowd they’d gathered meeting up in the space just in front of the barrier. Pharynx, Tempest, Gallus, and Luna gathered on a balcony overhead, continuing to lead the chant. “When I say ‘all the’ you say ‘way’! All the-! Way! All the-! Way! When I say ‘Villain’ you say ‘Creatures’! Villain! Creatures! Villain! Creatures! All the Way! It’s good to be vile! We’re proof of that, Used to be hidden now we’re on every map Used to steal but now we’re taking it back And remember it's- Vile! You’ve got this, raise your hooves high! Know your pride! It’s good to be Vile!” The group finished, laughing and smiling at the crowd before them. Tempest stepped to the front of the group. “Who wants to go? You?” she asked, hearing a resounding cheer. “Oh, I can’t believe this day has finally come!” Luna cried, smiling around at the crowd. “I really wish we could take all of you, we all do! And someday very soon, hopefully we can!” “And in the meantime, we’re going to be here so often, you’re going to be sick of us.” Gallus added, laughing “So sick of us.” Luna added, then lifted a scroll out of her dress pocket. “Now, drumroll please?” The creatures below stomped their hooves in anticipation, and Luna unrolled the scroll, as the other three withdrew identical ones out from pockets in their own outfits. Luna smiled and spoke. “First, I would like to begin with… the daughter of the Griff-Gang, my sweet sweet friend, my Gabby!” Gabby squealed and took off, flying to the balcony to give her sister-figure a big hug. Gallus unfurled his own scroll. He flew down to one of the staircases leading up to the balcony before reading it. “Next up, the daughter of Garnet and Fume, Smolder!” Gallus called, and Smolder raced up to him. “And of course,” Pharynx paused to fly down the second staircase leading to the balcony, standing at the bottom, then unrolled his scroll, smirking at the crowd. “No way in Tartarus we’re splitting up siblings, so get over here Garble!” Garble’s eyes widened, and he walked over, grinning. Tempest, at last, unrolled her own scroll. “And finally, we all agreed that this creature could use a little bit of Rising Dawn’s Remedial Goodness Class, so give it up for Diataro’s son, Discord!” Discord grinned as well, rushing up to join Tempest, Luna, and Gabby on the balcony. Pharynx, Gallus, Smolder, and Garble joined them. “Alright, we will be back for you guys next week.” Gallus said. “Yeah, gives you time to pack your stuff-yes, Discord, your own stuff, not stolen stuff.” Pharynx added, and he groaned. “Because where are you going?” Luna prompted, and they all beamed. “Equus!”
En-Gay-gedTempest sighed, shifting uneasily in her position on one of the turrets of Equus Prep, raising a pair of binoculars to her eyes. She began to scan the horizon, not noticing Pharynx walk up behind her. “Not a single feather in sight…” she murmured, then yelped and blushed as Pharynx slipped his hooves around her neck. “Temp, if Spitfire was going to do something she’d have done it by now.” he told her. “Phar, you and I both know that isn’t true. We know exactly how villains think.” Tempest grunted and turned back to the horizon, gazing out over the land and sea beyond. “Frankly, I don’t trust Spitfire as far as I can throw her.” “That is pretty far.” Pharynx admitted, chuckling, and Tempest gave him a slight smile in response, then went back to stoicness. “She’s going to wait until our defenses are down and strike. I wish I had time to use my Storm Bond and do a once-over from the sky, I can see farther.” Tempest said, referring to the storm powers she’d discovered during the Cotillion. Luna and Gallus had taken to calling the form ‘Storm Breaker’ “You can’t be everywhere at once Temp.” Pharynx gave her a nuzzle. “But you know I’ve got your back, always. Now come on, Sandbar’s waiting and Luna’s getting Gallus as we speak.” “Hold it.” Tempest stopped him with a hoof on his shoulder. “You’re convincing Sandbar to send out more guards.” “I’m his Head of Defense, I don’t think I need to do much convincing, I can just make him do it.” Pharynx chuckled, taking her hoof. “Don’t worry, I’ll set up more patrols, and you can help me supervise them. Now breathe.” Tempest took a breath, then smiled softly, taking Pharynx’s hoof. “Okay, I’m ready.” Pharynx smiled at her, then led her down the turret, where they passed by Luna and Gallus, who was cradling Monarch in one claw. The cat mewed happily, tail flicking-the spell accidentally placed on him long having worn off. Luna smiled and winked at them, and they winked back. All the royals of Equus and the students of Equus Prep were gathered out on the front lawn. Rising Dawn stood before them on a podium, Celestia at her side, adjusting a microphone for her. Tempest and Pharynx made their way into the crowd, Luna joining them after leading Gallus up to the podium. “Hey guys.” Gilda said, coming up to them, now holding Monarch for Gallus. Ember, Snowdrop, Thorax, and Ocellus were behind her. “Hey Gilds.” Tempest greeted. “Can you believe what Sand’s going to-” Ocellus began, only for Luna to quickly cover her mouth with a wing, shushing her. “O-Oh, right, sorry.” “It’s okay, but hush, I think it’s starting.” Luna said, and they all looked to the podium. Sandbar was standing with his parents, nervously adjusting his button-up shirt. Tempest smirked slightly, sharing knowing grins with the others. Then, as Celestia moved away from the podium, Sandbar strode over, joining Gallus and Rising Dawn. “Testing, testing, one-two, one-two, can everycreature hear me? Okay! Sandbar?” “Thank you, Rising Dawn.” Sandbar smiled at her graciously, then stepped up to the microphone. “Hello Equus! I would like to thank you all for coming to welcome our new arrivals from the Isle. they’ll be here soon.” “It’s not like we had much of a choice though, is it?” Tempest heard a voice rumble behind her, and she turned her head slightly. Tempest was surprised to see Prince Rutherford standing beside Yona, who looked very different. The young yak was now wearing a pale pink dress, some light makeup, her hair had ribbons and light blue and pink streaks in it, and her horns had a couple gold rings on them. Tempest decided to ignore the two for now and turned back to Sandbar. “It worked out pretty well for the first four-” Sandbar was saying. “Yeah, especially for you!” Blueblood called from somewhere within the crowd, causing some soft laughter. Sandbar himself chuckled and reached to take Gallus’ claw, making him blush. “Really funny.” Yona spat, glaring at Sandbar and Gallus. “Gallus…” Sandbar turned to the griffon, who was blushing. “This is the exact spot where we first met, not too long ago. And yet I feel like I’ve spent my entire life with you. But… did I mention, I’ve fallen for you?” Gallus giggled softly and looked at Sandbar. He began singing softly, facing the griffon, taking his claw. “I met this griff, he rocked my world Like it ain’t never been rocked Now I’m living just for him and I’m not gonna stop Never thought that it could happen to a colt like me But look what you’ve done, you’ve got me…” Sandbar knelt down, and Gallus’ eyes went wide as he reached into his front shirt pocket. “Down on one knee…” “S-Sandy…” Gallus covered his beak with a claw, eyes wide in shock as Sandbar pulled out a small velvet box, smiling at him. “Gally, it’s you and me. You and me forever.” Sandbar opened the box, revealing a silver ring with a sky blue gem set in the middle. “Will you marry me? Will you be my King?” “No!” Yona screeched, which was drowned out by a chorus of “awws” as Gallus threw himself onto Sandbar, nearly knocking the pony off his hooves. “Yes!!” he shouted out, making the others cheer. “Makes our stargazing seem tame, doesn’t it?” Snowdrop commented to Luna, who turned to her. “I love yo-the stars.” Luna blurted out, changing tactics midsentence, and Snowdrop smiled. “Me too.” “Yeah…” Luna looked away, sighing, but still smiled as she and her friends rushed over to Gallus and Sandbar as the pony slid the ring onto the blue and yellow griffon’s claw. “A lifetime of plans, gone.” Prince Rutherford turned to Yona, glaring at her. “Our family status, gone. You were supposed to be his Queen, Yona, and you let him slip through your hooves. Yaks never fail, and you have.” “Don’t you think I feel bad enough already, dad?” Yona muttered, as a filly passed by. “Sandbar and Gallus are amazing! I can’t wait for Gallus to be his King!” “You’d really rather have a villain on the throne than me? What’s wrong with you creatures? What’s wrong with everycreature?!” Yona exclaimed “I’m engaged guys!” Sandbar exclaimed, and Pharynx laughed, patting him on the back. “Wait, did you guys know?!” Gallus asked, and Ember, Thorax, Ocellus, and Snowdrop snickered mischievously. “Everything.” Luna filled him in, fluffing her wings. “You are gonna rock that crown baby bro!” Gilda said, as Luna gently pushed her aside, teleporting a clipboard to herself. “Okay, I’ve already got like a hundred sketches of your outfit-do you mind it having a little white and gold? Oh, and… Shell Scallop’s already planned the engagement party for next week!” Gallus’ eyes went wide and he laughed. “Then I guess it’s really good that I said yes!” Shell Scallop and Sea Kelp walked over, and Gallus hugged them. Shell Scallop hugged back and Sea Kelp patted him on the back. “I’m getting another son.” Shell Scallop beamed, as Sandbar’s little sister stared at the ring on Gallus’ claw. “Congratulations, son.” Sea Kelp told Sandbar, who chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck. “Thanks dad.” “I love you guys.” Gallus told Shell Scallop, who hugged him tight. “Oh, we love you too!” “So happy for both of you.” Rising Dawn told Sandbar, who smiled. “Thank you again, Rising Dawn, for letting me do this. I think he liked it.” Sandbar told her. “Oh he definitely did. I hear Celestia’s going to be helping her cousin prepare your outfits, too.” Rising Dawn smiled. “I can’t wait to see what they come up with.” A little ways away, Gallus collected Monarch from Gilda, holding him gently in the claw his ring was now on. Tempest and Pharynx approached him, grinning. “Heheh, all bow to his Royal Majesty!” Tempest laughed, bowing mockingly to Gallus. Pharynx followed her lead. “Ah, yes, all bow to His Royal Blueness!” Pharynx teased, and Gallus took on a haughty expression, shifting his hold on the kitten. “Silence, you annoying peasants!” “As you wish, my liege!” “Your Royal Crankiness.” Gallus glared at them good-naturedly before walking off towards Ocellus and Luna, who were showing Gilda something that was no doubt outfit designs. Tempest chuckled and followed them. Pharynx watched her go, then took a breath before walking over to Sandbar. “Hey, Sand, can I borrow you for a sec?” “Oh, sure Phar.” Sandbar said, letting the changeling lead him a little ways away from the others. “What’s up?” “W-Well… uh… this is.” Pharynx took a breath and reached into his leather jacket with his magic, pulling out a golden ring with a violet purple amethyst resting in the center. Sandbar’s eyes widened. “No… way…” Pharynx nodded, quickly slipping the ring back into his jacket. “I’ve been waiting for the right time…” “You need help?” Sandbar asked, and Pharynx shook his head. “No, no, I-I think I can handle it, I just… could you maybe…” “What? Be your best colt?” “What? No!” Pharynx rolled his eyes. “I already asked Thorax.” “Oh, okay. So why are you telling me?” “I was wondering if you could… find a way to get the others out of the room when I give you a signal. So I can ask Temp in private. I know she’d like that better.” “Oh, sure. What’s the signal?” Sandbar asked “You’ll know it when you see it.” Pharynx said unconcernedly, looking at Tempest. “I just hope she says yes.” “Of course she will, she loves you.” Sandbar told him reassuringly, and Pharynx smiled. “Thanks Sand.” “No problem.” As the two talked, Yona strode up to Gallus, glaring at him. “Congratulations. You won him fair and square. Oh wait, no you didn’t. You spelled him to attempt to enslave all of Equus. Touching story to share with the grandkids. If you have any.” Gallus glared right back at her as his sister and Tempest stepped forward, also glaring at the yak. Before either side could say anything else, Sandbar walked up, taking Gallus’ claw. “Alright, let’s do this. You ready?” Gallus nodded, looking at Yona smugly. “Speaking of kids, we have some waiting on us now, so if you’ll excuse us…” With that, Tempest, Pharynx, Luna, Gallus, and Sandbar headed towards the carriage that would take them across the ocean to the Hidden Isle.
The Goat of Doom“Alright, is everyone ready?” Tempest asked, watching the four chosen kids being seen off by their parents. They were standing in the street, waiting for the kids so they could drive back to the barrier and lower it to cross the magic bridge. “You two have everything?” Garnet, Smolder and Garble’s mother, asked as Gabby placed her things in the storage compartment of the carriage. “Yes mom.” Garble said, before going to step into the carriage. “Smolder?” “Yeah, I’ve got everything.” Smolder said. “Are you sure?” Garnet raised a brow, pulling a purple glue gun out from behind her back. “My glue gun!” Smolder took it gratefully, hugging her mother before entering the carriage. Discord tossed his bag into the storage compartment, then walked into the carriage. Tempest and Pharynx got into the front of the carriage, waving at the crowd that had come to see the four kids off. “Alright, let’s do this.” Sandbar said, helping Gallus into the carriage. They then started off towards the barrier, not noticing a hooded figure following their carriage. Luna was eagerly chatting with Gabby and Smolder. “So, as soon as we get to Equus, you have to try ice cream!” “And go swimming?” Smolder asked “I can take you to the Enchanted Lake near the school.” Luna said instantly, and Gabby squealed. “I can’t believe we get to stay with you in your very own castle!” “Oh, it’s just a little starter castle for mom and I. Can’t live at Auntie Rising Dawn’s castle forever. I’m mainly using it for my fashion business so I can jump start it.” Luna shrugged. “Oh, and of course you two can put your own designs into the new line I’m designing!” “Seriously?! Yes!” Smolder pumped a fist, and Gabby squealed again. “Here, try it.” Gallus tossed a chocolate over to Garble. “Trust me on this.” Garble shrugged and bit into it, then his eyes widened and he grabbed for more. Gallus chuckled, then turned his attention back to Sandbar, who was watching Discord shuffle a deck of Tarot cards. He smiled and slid them all up one arm, flipped them over with a whisk of his eagle talon, before gathering them all again and plucking the first card off the top of the deck. “Ah, you are going to be a wise and brave king.” Discord said, holding it up to Sandbar to reveal a crown with prongs strangely resembling his own antler and goat horn. “Heh, he already is.” Gallus said, and Sandbar blushed, nuzzling up to him. “The cards don’t lie.” Discord chuckled, placing the cards back in his bag, then holding out his lion's paw. Sandbar chuckled and set a couple bits in his paw, then continued snuggling up to Gallus. Discord grinned and stuffed the bits in his bag. The crowd back at Equus watched through a screen that had been set up to play a spell Rising Dawn was casting. Prince Rutherford nudged Yona gently as the car passed through the barrier and onto the bridge the magic began to create. “The only reason they should be opening that barrier is to put Spitfire back in, not let more villains out.” he uttered. Then, a yellow bolt of energy fired at the carriage as a hoof covered in shaggy blue fur reached through the barrier. The watching crowd screamed in terror as the hooded figure forced a familiar looking bell through the barrier. The hood fell, revealing a ram with twisted horns. The carriage stopped and the four VCs, along with Sandbar, jumped out. “It’s Grogar!” Luna exclaimed “He must be trying to escape-no, stay there!” Pharynx commanded as the four new kids tried to join them. The group obeyed, even Garble and Discord. Pharynx shut the door to keep them inside and safe. “I am a god! I don’t belong here, I created this world!” Grogar bellowed, as his bell began to glow and vibrate. Gallus, Sandbar, and Pharynx rushed forwards, but three bolts of magic from the bell knocked them down. “No!” Tempest shot a blast of lightning into the clouds. “Everyone stay back!” With that, a bolt of lightning shot down from the clouds, sending Tempest into her Storm-Breaker form. Tempest leapt at Grogar, her electricity made wings spreading and horn sparking as she gathered lightning into the broken stub, preparing to blast the father of monsters. But Grogar aimed his bell at her, and suddenly she was enveloped in it’s yellow glow. Tempest howled in pain and struggled, electric blue light being forced out of her chest and heading for the bell. Grogar laughed in triumph. Pharynx and Gallus flew to Tempest, who transformed back into her normal form, collapsing into Pharynx’s hooves. Sandbar rushed up and pulled Gallus back as Grogar laughed. “It’s the kids!” Shell Scallop exclaimed as they saw Gallus and Pharynx rushing to help Tempest. “Nocreature panic!” Rising Dawn called, waving her wings for silence. Yona burst forward, pointing at the image as Tempest collapsed. “There are your precious heroes! They can’t even protect us!” “Okay, everycreature panic!” Celestia exclaimed, and her mother did her best to calm everyone, but they were already all running. “Alright, alright, run! In an orderly fashion!” Rising Dawn commanded “Come on Temp, please…” Pharynx said, clutching her. She struggled up slightly, igniting her horn. “Everyone get back!” Tempest shouted, and they all scrambled away from her. Tempest gritted her teeth and channeled a strong surge of energy into her horn. A large bolt of energy shot out of her horn and blasted Grogar’s hoof, causing him and the bell to tumble back through the barrier, allowing it to close. Tempest then staggered, getting onto all fours again. “Temp!” Luna raced over, Pharynx behind her. “Are you okay?” “N-No…” Tempest sucked in a breath, wincing. “H-He was trying t-to drain my magic, with the Bell… I-I could feel my powers slipping away…” “You’re safe Temp. He’s back where he belongs.” Pharynx reassured her, kissing her cheek. “Yeah, for now.” Tempest said, looking at the barrier. “We should go.” Luna advised. “Yeah, okay.” Tempest sighed, and they got back into the carriage, checking on the others before continuing along the magical bridge, back to Equus.
The Queen RisesYona sat in her room at the school, pouring over an old diary, particularly entries where she wrote about her relationship with Sandbar. “You were supposed to be his Queen, Yona, and you let him slip through your hooves. Yaks never fail, and you have.” Her father’s words echoed in her mind painfully. Yona closed the diary and stood up, crying. She began to sing softly. “I’m so tired of all this pretending What happened to having a happy ending? I’ve followed all the rules I’ve drawn inside the lines I didn’t ask for anything that wasn’t already mine I waited, patient, for what I thought would be my time But when it came, he called his name.” Yona stomped a hoof on the ground, gritting her teeth. “And now I can’t stop this overwhelming pain I can feel it deep within my veins It’s burning itself into my brain My thoughts have been running in circles like a train A perfect painted portrait with a shattered frame And I know exactly who’s to blame!” Yona grabbed one of the fire pokers from the fireplace in her room and stared at it, before pacing around her room. “I never once thought I could be malicious I just wanted to be his queen But there’s not an in-between! If I can’t have that, I will rule the dark and bad! The devil’s sitting on my shoulder where angles used to sing And he’s saying I’m the Queen!” Yona paused, then left the room. Soon enough, she was walking into The Museum of Equus History. Yona entered the room, the guard asleep, and with a few quick taps on the keyboard of the security computer, the cameras were off. With that, Yona walked into an exhibit she had visited many times before. The Crown of the Queen of Auradon. Shell Scallop stored it there when it wasn’t being worn, and it had been moved there permanently after she and her husband officially passed the kingdom to Sandbar. “Being nice was a trivial pastime I’ve been hurt for the final time I’m never going to let someone else take advantage of me The anger’s burned itself into my skin, don’t you see? My blood runs hotter than a fiery phoenix Nocreature will ever come close to me They’ll bow down to this evil Queen Their nightmares are my wildest dreams Wait until they fall to their knees at my wicked schemes.” With that, Yona struck the glass containing the Queen’s crown with the fire poker, shattering it. She smirked and tossed away the fire poker, then reached in, taking the crown in her hooves and lifting it up, laying it gently on her head. “I never once thought of myself as malicious I just wanted to be his Queen But there’s not an in-between! If I can’t have that, I will rule the dark and the bad! The devil’s sitting on my shoulder where the angles used to sing! And he’s saying I’m the Queen of the Malicious!” As Yona strutted around, wearing the crown, she heard something calling her name. Her song trailed off briefly as she turned to find the source. The next exhibit over. The Storm King’s staff. “The Queen of the Malicious…” Yona headed for the staff, staring at it. “Something magical is pulling me like a magnet My body is moving, I’m unsure why I’m headed To this, my senses have left me and I’m defenseless,” Yona knocked the helmet of Nyxmare Moon off a pedestal by the staff, placing the Queen’s crown on top of it. She then turned to the staff. “Darkness surrounds me, it promises vengeance! And the price I’m willing to pay, it’s expensive You know there’s nothing to lose when you’re lonely and friendless!” Yona grabbed the crown again, putting it on. “Now my only interest is showing that griffon That I am malicious and my reign shall be eternal!” With that, Yona grabbed onto the Storm King’s staff. In a flash of blue magic, she was transformed. The ribbons and dyed parts of her hair were darker, now deep blue and purple. The gold rings on her horns had turned stormcloud silver gray, and her dress had turned to dark pink with gray specks and a dark black cape of crow feathers. She grinned and yanked the staff from it’s holder. “I will get what I deserve! I will rule the world! Time for them to set back and learn That at last it’s my turn! If they want a villain on their throne I’ll be one like they’ve never known! I’ll let them see what it truly means! Now that I am this, I will rule over the dark and the bad! The devil’s sitting on my shoulder where angels used to sing He’s calling me the Queen of the Malicious! The Queen of the Malicious! Time to get what I deserve!” With that, Yona blasted the lights with the staff, causing them to short circuit. She was left in the dark, a wicked smile on her face. “We all know why we’re here.” Sea Kelp announced to the creatures before him. Rising Dawn, Shell Scallop, his son Sandbar, and Gallus. “The citizens are in a panic about Grogar. He almost got out.” “And who knows what he would have done if he had escaped.” Rising Dawn added. “We can’t risk having another villain on the loose.” Sea Kelp finished. Sandbar stepped forwards. “Dad…” he began, but Gallus held him back, looking at the adults. “We know how bad this is. Tempest the most, she believes it’s her fault that he nearly escaped, because she feels it’s her duty to protect Equus. It is what her cutie mark stands for. She feels she owes Equus her life.” “But she does protect Equus.” Sandbar said “I know Sandy. But Tempest won’t rest until she’s certain.” Gallus explained. Sea Kelp cleared his throat, drawing their attention to him. “Boys, every time we open the barrier, we’re exposed to more danger. The Storm King. Spitfire. Grogar.” As the boys opened their mouths to object, an alert went off on Sandbar’s phone. He opened it, read the message, then looked up. “The Storm King’s Scepter and the Queen’s crown have been stolen.” he reported, and Gallus’ eyes widened slightly. “Spitfire.” Sea Kelp immediately said “We don’t know that.” Gallus told him, Sandbar nodding agreement. “Look, I know villains, Spitfire would never do something that obvious, she’s a thinker.” “Regardless of who took them, when the citizens hear of this they’ll be terrified to even leave their homes. What will we tell them?” Shell Scallop put in. “Boys… what do we do? We need to keep evil out of Equus.” Sandbar seemed nervous, so Gallus stepped forwards. He took a breath, then spoke. “I think… the only way we can truly guarantee everycreature’s safety… is that to ensure there’s no more going in and out. We have to close the barrier. Forever.” “Wait, what? No, Gally-” Sandbar began, and Gallus took his hoof, looking him in the eye. “Sandy, believe me, taking away your dream… our dream, is the last thing I want to do. It was beautiful, and one of the many reasons I love you. But as the Kings, what is our duty?” “...To protect Equus… but Gallus… all those kids… are you really prepared to tell them? And tell your friends?” “...It wasn’t my idea…” Gallus sighed. “Tempest has always been a tactical thinker. She predicted the conversation would turn to the barrier at one point, and… she made me promise I’d bring this up.” “You didn’t have to listen.” “Sandy, she made me use the StarBlight Swear.” Gallus told him, and he sighed, nodding. “The what?” Rising Dawn questioned, and Gallus shuddered slightly. “A-All I can tell you is… it was created because of the reason Tempest lost her horn.” Gallus looked almost guilty as he said it, and the others knew not to press any further. “Anyway… Tempest is prepared for it. But I’m not. And I don’t want to do it, I know what it would mean. I just think we have no other choice…” Sandbar sighed, then nodded. “Alright Gally. I trust you, and I trust Tempest’s judgement.” “So it’s agreed.” Sea Kelp said, and the group nodded solemnly.
The First Attack“So who else knows? About the crown and the staff, I mean.” Luna asked, as Tempest paced in front of her. They were in Luna’s home. “No one besides Sandbar, his parents, Gallus, and Rising Dawn. And now you and me.” Tempest explained. “Understandable, of course, creatures are scared enough as is, Pharynx was just telling me about the new security measures they’re taking.” “Do you think it’ll delay bringing over more VCs?” “I…” Tempest stopped. “...Gallus said they’re… talking about closing the barrier for good.” “But he said no, right? I mean, what could they be thinking? The four of us are living the dream and we finally get to share that. Nothing could be more important than that.” “Y-Yeah, I know.” Tempest bit her lip, sitting down. “I mean, there’s security. And peace of mind for everyone in Equus.” “T, is that seriously what they’re thinking? That no one will ever go in or out of the Isle ever again?” Luna stood and began pacing. “That Phar, Gallus, Gilda, Thorax, Ocellus-all of them never get to go back and see their parents? And what about the new kids? We promised they could go back and visit whenever they wanted!” “I know that, Lu.” “Temp… I am so glad Gallus is going to make you his advisor…” Luna hugged her friend, startling her. “You’ll get to hear about these conversations and help him stand up for the VCs.” “Y-Yeah…” “Thanks for telling me this. You know you can always confide in me.” Luna said, and Tempest hugged her back at last. “Yeah, I know.” “Hey, there you two are.” Pharynx said as Thorax and Ocellus rushed into the kitchen of Luna’s house. They’d all been bunking there for the summer. “Where have you been?” “Stayed up late reading.” Ocellus said, as Thorax stuffed some towels into a bag. “Getting some beach towels.” Thorax explained, grinning at his brother in excitement. “You think Emmie will like the cake we made for her?” “She better like it, I swear, I’m still picking frosting out of my carapace.” Pharynx muttered, as he and Ocellus piled sandwiches and chips into a picnic basket. “Never cooking with you two again.” “Still, I bet she’ll-” Thorax walked over to the box they’d put the specially made gemstone cake in and froze. There was a chunk missing from the bottom corner. “Hey! Who got into Ember’s cake?!” “Oh come on!” Pharynx exclaimed, as he and Ocellus walked over to inspect the damage. Outside, Smolder and Discord were sitting together, each eating a slice of cake. Smolder moaned softly, scraping the leftover crumbs off her plate. “So good!” “Ah, yes, and the lack of dirt is especially good!” Discord added, grabbing a gem from the cake and eating it in one bite. “And the lack of flies.” Smolder added, and Discord blinked, then took another bite and nodded. “Here, want some of mine?” Discord suggested, showing her how he still had half a slice. Smolder nodded eagerly and cut some with her fork. As the two sugar thieves chowed down on the gem cake, Tempest stepped outside, levitating a gift she’d gotten for Ember in her magic. As she walked down the path leading away from Luna’s home, a bolt of lightning struck the ground, causing a cloud of dust to rise. When it cleared, Yona was strutting towards her. “Oh good, I was hoping you were here.” Yona chuckled “What are you doing with the crown and the staff?” Tempest snarled. “Oh, I wanted them, so I took them.” Yona said, grinning. “You of all creatures should understand that.” “Wait, don’t!” Tempest shouted, drawing attention from the others inside. “You don’t know how to use that, it’s dangerous!” “Don’t you like spells, Tempest?” Yona asked, grinning. Gallus and Luna raced out, Pharynx behind them with Monarch padding along at the rear. “Yona, put that down, it’s not a toy.” Tempest growled. “I know, I want to be dangerous!” Yona pointed it at her, then realized Gallus was there and trotted to him. “My life was perfect, until you stole it, Gallus. Equus turned its back on me. It’s time for some payback.” “Yona, what-no!” Tempest shoved Gallus out of the way, getting blasted with the staff. They shrieked, and the smoke cleared to reveal Tempest had changed into an old mare, her cloak old and worn, just as Thorax and Ocellus ran out. “You think Equus will love you now, you old hag?” Yona laughed. “You’ll pay the price for what you did, I’m coming for all of you! So long suckers!” With that, Yona had vanished in another lightning bolt and cloud of fog. Pharynx went to Tempest, only to yelp in surprise. “Uh, isn’t there a spell to reverse that?” Gallus asked. “You’re lucky it didn’t happen to you.” Tempest said, looking at herself. “No spell can reverse the magic of my father’s staff.” “Oh boy…” Discord had walked over. Tempest shook her head. “Forget about me. Yona’s out for revenge, which means all of Equus is in danger.” “And Sea Kelp thought it was Spitfire.” Gallus muttered to himself. “Isn’t there anything more powerful than the staff?” Pharynx asked “One thing… the thing that created it…” Tempest hesitated. “...Grogar’s bell.” “Well that’s just great.” Pharynx muttered. “He’s not just going to hoof it over.” “And it’s not like we know where his lair is anyway.” Thorax added. “I do.” Discord said, biting a gem in half. “I run errands for him. I have a key at my dad’s.” “That’s our in.” Tempest said, pointing at Discord. “You’re coming with us.” “Aw, and I just got here.” Discord groaned. “Hey, guys?” Smolder, Garble, and Gabby walked out, then cried out when they saw Tempest. “Gabby, Smolder, Garble, stay here and look out for each other, we’ll be fine, go inside.” Luna told them. “I’m staying too.” Ocellus flew over and locked her hooves around Smolder’s neck, kissing her cheek. “I’m not leaving Smoldie again.” “Alright then, that leaves just one sibling to look out for, makes my job easier.” Pharynx thumped Thorax on the back, and he yelped. “If you guys see Gilda, get her inside with you.” Gallus said, scooping up Monarch and passing him to Gabby as he, Thorax, and Pharynx flew around back to get their things. Tempest looked over at Luna. “Lu, how bad is it?” Luna looked at Tempest, scrutinizing her for a moment. “Nothing a little makeup and a nice outfit can fix. Come on.” “Fine, but no makeup.” “Aw, come on!” “Are you sure this will work?” Thorax asked nervously as they stood on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the Hidden Isle in the distance. “Positive. It’s how I got across the last time.” Tempest stepped forward, igniting her horn and forcing it to work. “We stand here, proud and fair. We can go anywhere.” Magic sparked around their hooves, and Tempest stepped out onto thin air, the magic holding her up. The others, seeing her success, charged after her. As they ran, Thorax’s phone sounded an alert, and he levitated it over in his magic. “Oh no, Ember’s party! We’re gonna be late!” “Thorax, don’t you see this is clearly more important?!” Pharynx called back, and Thorax sighed, tucking his phone away and following the others.
Birthdays and BanditsAuthor's Note Forgot to publish this yesterday, sorry! Birthdays and Bandits Ember stood by the Enchanted Lake, surrounded by party decorations and guests from the school, Celestia at her side. But she was glancing around nervously. Blueblood trotted up, messing around with a water gun. “Huh, looks like Thorax forgot it was your birthday.” he remarked “He probably just took the wrong trail, he’s a little forgetful.” Ember said. “O-Or, you know, he’s never been to a birthday party before!” “Or maybe he forgot.” Blueblood said, and Celestia whacked him upside the head with her clipboard. “Hey! You never know!” Ember rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, then smirked. “Oh, Blueblood, look, there’s creatures over there taking selfies.” “Oh, yes! Hey, wait for me!” Blueblood shoved his water gun at Ember and dashed off. Ember and Celestia giggled and high hoofed/clawed. As Blueblood scrambled to join the creatures taking selfies, a familiar yak strode up to the party, clutching the Storm King’s staff. Ember and Celestia looked over and their eyes widened. “Anybody save me some guacamole?” Yona asked, receiving silence. “No? Huh. Looks like somecreature also forgot to invite me.” Celestia and Ember looked at each other in confusion. Yona then chuckled, adjusting the crown on her head and picking up a cupcake. “Well, don’t expect Tempest, she’s… not feeling herself.” Yona stomped the cupcake into the ground. “Does that make you sad? Does it just ruin everything? You mindless little drones!” Ember’s eyes widened, and Celestia stepped closer to her as she fanned out her wings. “How could you forget what she and her little crew did to us?! How could you forget you were supposed to have me as the Queen?!” “Hey! Timeout!” Blueblood raced over, grinning at Yona nervously. “First off, love the new look, I love the feathers. Second, before you do whatever you’re going to do… would you like a… loyal boyfriend by your side? Partner in crime? Sidekick? Or maybe just a lackey to do your bidding?” Yona contemplated him for a bit. “...Yes, you can be useful. Fine, stand behind me.” Blueblood instantly obeyed, and Yona turned to Ember and Celestia, who were still standing by the water. “Equus just loves to forget so much… they’ll love this.” Yona chuckled and glared at the two girls. She then began to sing softly, the staff sparking. “Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you…” As Yona sang, fog enveloped the crowd, and everyone except Blueblood suddenly fainted, yawning and going to sleep. Ember and Celestia gasped in shock, backing up. “Happy birthday to Ember~ Happy birthday, to… you…” Yona finished as the fog crept nearer to the two girls. “What do we do?” Ember hissed “Uh…” Celestia then looked at the water. “The Enchanted Lake! Come on!” Without a warning, Celestia grabbed Ember’s claw and dragged her into the water. The two waded in, then took deep breaths and dove underneath the surface. Yona just chuckled. “Sweet dreams.” Yona laughed wickedly, and she and Blueblood were gone. Celestia and Ember held their breaths as long as they could, then resurfaced, taking big gulps of the air. The spell was fading from the air around them. “What… just… happened?!” Ember exclaimed “I don’t know but I’m willing to bet the others have something to do with it.” Celestia replied Sandbar was bustling around in his room in the castle when his phone rang. He picked it up and answered the call, grabbing his gift for Ember. “Oh, hey Ember, I’m on my way to the party-” “No, Sandbar, stay where you are.” Ember’s voice came out. “I’m with Celestia, Yona’s got the staff and the crown. Celestia’s going to call her mom and tell her to get her crown.” Sandbar blinked in surprise, not registering the call end. “Is Gally with you? Ember? Ember?” Meanwhile, the VCs finally arrived in the Hidden Isle. They stopped near the building Discord’s father owned, skidding to a halt. Tempest canceled the spell, and the group set their bags down against a fence. Tempest looked at herself, finding she was back to normal. “Finally, I’m back.” “Well, obviously. Evil magic doesn’t work here, remember?” Discord flicked a claw at her horn. The group followed Discord as he led them to a metal door. He knocked against it in a pattern, another pattern answering back, which he answered with a third, and the door opened. Tempest rolled her eyes slightly and led the group after Discord. The draconequus known as Diataro ran an arcade and fortune telling saloon, and was currently surveying the activity going on around him. Discord ran up from behind and he spun around. “Discord!” “Dad!” The two hugged, then did a complicated handshake before Diataro and Discord walked off, presumably to get the key. “So, what kind of hustle you been pulling?” Diataro asked his son. “Heh, no hustle dad. I got friends on the other side.” Discord chuckled, and Diataro laughed. “Ah, I hear ya.” Diataro tweaked his son’s wings playfully as Discord snagged a key. “We’re on a mission.” Discord explained, putting the key around his neck. “I’m a major player, so I’m afraid I can’t stay long.” “Yeah, you just make sure you get your cut.” Diataro rubbed his son’s head, the two smiling at each other. Meanwhile, Thorax was fiddling with an old TV Diataro had in the arcade. He inserted one of the arcade tokens that had been left on top of the TV, then spun the dial. The TV turned on after a moment of static and Thorax sat down to observe what was playing. “Alerts of what appears to be a sleeping spell keep coming in as it spreads throughout Equus.” “U-Uh, guys?” Thorax called. “You might want to come see this…” The others rushed over, standing beside Thorax as they watched the screen. “There are rumors that Prince Rutherford’s daughter Yona is behind the spell. We are trying to find out who’s responsible for these vicious lies, and figure out which villain has perpetrated the evil deed.” Discord and Diataro wandered over as the reporter got an update. “It’s what? It’s moving this way-? It’s moving this way!” “Come on, we need to go get the bell, now.” Tempest ordered, and they nodded, getting up. As they went outside, Gallus threw up his wings in frustration. “Rookie mistake!” Spitfire’s pirates were rooting through their bags. Rainbow chuckled, slinging Pharynx’s bag over her shoulder. “Long time no see, eh?” “Give me my stuff, Rainbow!” Pharynx demanded “Catch me if you can, Pharynx!” Rainbow laughed, and the group took off, flying down the street. “Over the roofs, cut ‘em off, go!” Pharynx ordered, and Gallus grabbed Thorax, leading him off as Luna spread her wings and followed from the other direction. Pharynx charged after the pirates from the back. “Hey, not you.” Tempest said as Discord made to follow them. “We’re getting that bell, come on.” “Well, good timing I suppose, it’s around his naptime.” Discord shrugged, leading Tempest off. Meanwhile, the others chased the pirates, who had taken to the air, laughing and cackling. “Just let it go, Pharynx.” Thorax panted as they struggled to catch up to the pirates. “T-They’re way faster than us, you know, a-and without magic we’re at a disadvantage.” Pharynx snarled, nodding. “Fine. We’ll catch ‘em later anyway.” he muttered, patting his jacket to ensure he still had the ring.
Family ProblemsAuthor's Note I forgot this story existed for a bit, sorry! ~Melody Song Family Problems Discord led Tempest over to a chain-link gate in an arch-shaped pathway, with an image of an outline of Grogar’s head attached to it. Tempest noticed a sign on the gate, Beware of the Bear. “Hey, how big is that bear?” Tempest asked, suppressing a shudder. Discord glanced at the sign, then smirked. “You’ll see.” Discord opened the gate with the key and led her inside, whispering. “Stay quiet, it echoes in here like you wouldn’t believe.” Tempest nodded, allowing Discord to lead her through the tunnel. She heard a bear growling and jumped slightly, but Discord urged her on, showing her a minecart with a pedaling mechanism attached to the front. Tempest got in the back while Discord operated the pedals. The growling got louder the further in they went, and the tunnel flickered red. Finally, they stopped. Discord then showed Tempest to a wooden staircase, leading to a room. In this room, Grogar slept on a couch, sunglasses over his eyes and a red fire flickering in one corner. The two crept down the stairs, and Discord pointed out the Bell, which was sitting on a table by the couch where Grogar was sleeping. The growling sounded again, and Tempest flinched, only for Discord to nudge her and point out a record being played, the source of the growling. Tempest breathed an internal sigh of relief, then began making her way around to the bell from behind. Discord, apparently fed up with the growling, walked over to the record and stopped it. Grogar didn’t even move, but spoke. “What are you doing here?” Discord flinched, then turned to face Grogar, who sat up, and pulled something out of his bag. “Noticed you were low on canned hay.” As Discord tossed Grogar the can, Tempest reached a hoof for the bell… only for Grogar’s hoof to come down on her own. Grogar took the bell, then turned to face her, staring at her silently. “Hi… Uncle Grogar.” Tempest said, and Discord, who had pulled some chocolate milk out of his bag, did a spit take. Grogar took off his sunglasses, giving her a look. “Quite a show you put on the other day.” “Could say the same to you.” Tempest said “I was just coming to see you.” Grogar chuckled. “Oh really? I wonder why.” Tempest said dryly. “Is it because I was your way into Equus?” “Oh Tempest, don’t be bitter.” Grogar chuckled, looking at a dusty mirror hanging on the wall. Tempest stared at him unflinchingly, Discord creeping back up to the staircase. “You abandoned me and my father.” “No, no, don’t get your memories twisted, I abandoned your father, you know he’s not the easiest creature to get along with. The craziness, the storm-loving, the everything.” “You think?” Tempest rolled her eyes. “You know you were supposed to help raise me. But you left me with him.” “See? We have something in common. We both hate your father.” Grogar chuckled. “No. I don’t hate my father. He may have been an evil lunatic but at least he stuck around after mom died. He raised me when his own brother went back on his promise.” “Oh boo hoo. Wake up and smell the stench, Tempest. You think you had it rough? I used to be a god! An entire world to my name! Now I have nothing! And you have no idea what that feels like.” Grogar said, storming off. “Really?!” Tempest screamed, storming after him. “For seventeen years, I had nothing! And now, I have a home. But unless I get that Bell, it’s game over.” “And why would I give it to you, you stuck up little brat?” Grogar snarled. With that, he began to sing. “Listen here little filly, You’re talking to a god I don’t want to hear about any drama Kindness isn’t in my brand.” “Oh, I guess that’s why you left.” Tempest shot back. “Try having your father for a brother.” “You’re a terrible uncle.” “Oh, did I make you sad?” Grogar mocked “Not as sad as you without your magic But I didn’t come to fight, So can’t you for once do something right?” “I created monsters. Were you expecting chocolates?” “Look, I only came because I need something.” “I’ve given you everything by offering nothing!” they sang at each other. “I’ve done everything because I had to!” Grogar sang loudly “No, you just did what you figured best for you.” Tempest retorted “Well maybe it’s time you learn a thing or two When push has come to shove You gotta do what you have to!” “Well, you were never here for me! I guess you don’t know how to write! You never sent a card to say ‘I love you’!” “You’ve got to be kidding! Come on, tell me it’s a joke! Just let this go, you know You’re stronger with family issues!” “Oh, thank you.” Tempest rolled her eyes. Grogar glared at her. “Show me some respect, you’re wild It’s not easy to neglect a child! But attention only makes you softer!” “So I should be proud? Don’t turn this talk around!” “You really are your father’s daughter.” Grogar scoffed “Look, I only came because I need something!” “I’ve given you everything by offering nothing!” they sang as one. “I’ve done everything because it was what I had to I’ve made it on my own, clearly no thanks to you.” Tempest glared at him dryly. “Well maybe it’s time you learn a thing or two When push has come to shove You gotta do what you have to! How about I go with you, we can have some bonding time!” Grogar suggested, grinning. “How about you stay right where you are, if you think you’re coming you’re out of your mind!” Tempest turned away from him, and he put a hoof around her. “We’ll make memories and you can show me around!” “I think I’m good, keep your memories you stinking cow.” Tempest said, and Grogar rolled his eyes. “Get over it.” “I am over it.” Tempest shot back. “I’m over you being over it!” they shouted at each other. “I’ve done everything because I had to No, you just did what you figured best for you! Well maybe it’s time you learn a thing or two When push has come to shove you gotta When push has come to shove you gotta When push has come to shove You gotta do what you have to!” they finished as one “You want to make up for being a lousy uncle?” Tempest asked him, as Discord peeked back out from the staircase. “Give me the Bell.” “The Bell only works for me.” Grogar replied. “No, it’ll work for me. We’re blood.” Tempest reminded him sternly. “You’re only half me, and that’s from your satyr father.” Groger held up the Bell. “It won’t do everything for you that it does for me.” “I’ll take my chances.” Tempest said curtly. Grogar paused, then set the Bell in her hoof. She smirked and walked up the stairs. “If it gets scorched, it’s game over.” Grogar told Tempest as she left, getting Discord. Tempest merely gave a noncommittal nod in response. He smirked slightly. “That’s my niece.”
TrucesAs Tempest and Discord headed out of the cavern, Discord spoke. “I guess that’s the reason he mentions you a lot.” he said, looking at his claws. Tempest stopped, and Discord paused as well. “...Luna is the only one who knows that he’s my uncle.” Tempest told him. “And as far as I’m concerned, he doesn’t even exist.” Discord nodded in understanding, and they headed out. Sandbar was on his phone, struggling to relay orders without Pharynx to help explain how the guard ran. “No, I need the royal guard giving out gas masks. Well, not everyone’s asleep!” He hung up and turned to the servant waiting patiently by the door to his room. “Find out if anyone’s seen Yona, and if she has a list of demands.” Sandbar ordered, and the servant left. He sighed, pulling off his jacket and sitting down at his desk. “Just one.” Yona’s voice said from behind him, and he jumped, turning to face her. “I demand my life back. I’ll wake everyone up right now. Under one, itty-bitty condition, Sandy-bear.” Yona trailed a hoof up his shoulder, and Sandbar knocked it away unflinchingly. “Make me your queen and we’ll rule together.” Yona demanded in a soft voice. “Yona, did someone put a spell on you?” Sandbar asked. “Tell me who and I can-” “You can what? Marry them?” Yona asked sharply, then cackled, walking to the window. “Most people get dumped because they’re not good enough. I wasn’t bad enough. How do you like me now, Sandy-bear?” “I liked the old Yona better.” Sandbar said stiffly. “She wouldn’t want to hurt Equus. Just give me the staff and I’ll forgive you.” Yona held it away from him. “You’ll forgive me? I don’t think so. Sleeping is too good for you!” She blasted Sandbar with the staff and he fell over. Yona walked to the window. “Sleeping is too good for Equus!” she shouted, the staff flashing with light. Elsewhere, Rising Dawn and her sister Nebular Star were rushing up the steps to the Museum of Equus History, when a bolt of lightning struck down and enveloped them. In a flash, the two were stone. Back on the Hidden Isle, Tempest and Discord had regrouped with the others, and they were heading for the barrier. “Alright, get in, get out, got it?” Tempest asked, and they all nodded. “Pharynx, you still got the-” “Remote that turns on the bridge, yep.” Pharynx pulled it out of his jacket and activated it, making the barrier give them a doorway. The group walked through the barrier. As they did, Tempest tapped the Bell with a hoof, and in a flash she was back to normal. Except now, her outfit was a sleek black and purple bodysuit, and her mane, rather than being in the same style Gabby and Smolder had done for her when she had returned to the Isle, had become a deep, dark purple, with blue fades weaving their way in and out of it. “Woah…” Pharynx stared at her, then kissed her cheek. “You look beautiful.” Then, as they stepped forward onto the remnants of the stone part of the bridge, three blurs shot through after them. They cried out and turned around, seeing Fleetfoot, Rainbow, and Soarin standing behind them as the barrier closed again. “Hey guys, we’re just coming for a little visit.” Rainbow said, as the three tried to get past them. “Oh no you don’t.” Gallus pushed Rainbow back as Pharynx and Tempest stepped in front of the other two. The six began struggling, and Soarin shoved Tempest, who dropped the bell. “Wait, no!” Tempest cried, as Rainbow kicked it, sending it flying. “No! If we lose it-” Something orange and red swooped down out of the sky and caught it. A bright orange and red phoenix, carrying the bell in its talons. “Somecreature drop something?” Spitfire’s voice came out of the phoenix’s beak, chuckling. “Spitfire!” the three pegasi exclaimed “It can’t get burned!” Tempest shouted, horn sparking. “Give it back to me before it melts!” “Heheh… you know my power.” Spitfire said, smirking at her. Flames surrounded the phoenix, and the bell. “No!” Tempest shouted. But as the flames disappeared, Spitfire stood before them on the broken bridge, the bell dangling from her hoof. “Hey team.” she said, and Fleetfoot rushed to her. “Thpitty!” Fleetfoot threw her hooves around Spitfire, kissing her cheek. “Heh, welcome back.” Soarin said. “We thought you flew off and forgot all about us.” Rainbow said. “Planning her revenge, no doubt.” Tempest muttered, and Spitfire scoffed. “It’s not all about you, Tempest.” she told her, looking to her team. “I was looking for a hole in the barrier, to let everycreature out. And you know what I found?” “What?” Soarin prompted, and Spitfire glared at the VCs and Discord. “It’s way better on their side of the barrier than we thought! There are these weird moving rocks called turtles. And clouds so thick you could sleep on them! And they’ve been keeping it all for themselves.” “Whatever.” Tempest held out her hoof for the Bell. “Spitfire, I need that to break a spell.” “Cast by Yona, Prince Rutherford’s daughter.” Gallus added “Oh, so the good guy’s the bad guy.” Spitfire said, laughing. “Well, I might not give it back. See what happens.” “Spitfire, it’s not the time for games! Creature’s lives are in danger!” “Oh no… E-Ember, h-her party…” Thorax realized, looking over at Equus in the distance. Pharynx put a hoof on his brother’s back. Spitfire chuckled, then held up the bell. “Guarantee me that every single Villain Creature who wants to can get off the Isle.” “I-I can’t do that.” Tempest admitted. “Oh?” Spitfire ignited her wing in flames, holding it close to the Bell. “How about now?!” “Deal!” Tempest shouted, holding out her hoof. “Deal.” Spitfire raised a brow, wing fluttering close to the Bell. Luna, who had been standing with Discord, jumped forwards. “Spitfire! Her word is good.” Spitfire glanced at the Bell, then chuckled softly. “I’ll still keep this.” She lifted up her necklace, holding it against the Bell. The Bell shrunk slightly, and Spitfire unclasped her necklace, slipping the Bell onto it. “For the time being. If you think I trust you to save the world on your own, think again.” Spitfire grinned and turned to her team. “This is a job for Sky Pirates!” Tempest glared at her, and Thorax moved over. “W-We can always go back to hating each other when this is over.” he told her quietly. “...Fine.” Tempest agreed stiffly. “Now, where’s our stuff?” Pharynx asked the pirates, who grinned. “Oh, we left them on the other side of the barrier.” Rainbow told him. Pharynx snarled, raising a hoof, but Thorax pulled him back. “Hey, you still have the ring, that’s what matters.” Thorax whispered to him, and he nodded slightly. “Here’s a thought.” Luna stepped forwards, wings fluffing. “We could try to be friends. Put our history behind us and celebrate our differences.” Everyone stared at her for a minute, and while Thorax seemed hopeful, looking from his brother to the pirates, the others shot her deadpan looks. “Let’s go.” Spitfire said, beginning to walk off. “Nope!” Tempest stepped over. “I’m in charge. Let’s go.”
New PlansAfter crossing the ocean once more by using Tempest’s spell-though Spitfire and her team flew over instead, they made their way to Equus Prep. Where they found creatures scattered everywhere, students, sleeping. “They’re all asleep…” Luna whispered, phone held up to her ear. Gallus and Thorax also had their phones out. “I-I can’t get Sandy.” Gallus said. “Or Gabby, or Snowdrop.” Luna reported “Or Ember…” Thorax looked at his phone nervously. “The signal’s out.” “Is that Equus prep?” Discord asked, pointing at the giant castle. “Yep. You’re gonna love it once everyone wakes up.” Pharynx told him “Everything is so green!” Rainbow exclaimed. “There are leaves on the trees.” “And what are thethe colored thingieth on the busheth?” Fleetfoot asked. Thorax blinked at her. “Flowers?” “They’re pretty.” Fleetfoot picked one and tucked it behind her ear, smiling. “Cool! Tiny cantaloupe!” Soarin grabbed a bowl of grapes sitting by a sleeping student and began eating, giving some to Rainbow. “There’s no fresh fruit on the Isle, remember?” Spitfire said as Pharynx opened his mouth to say something. Pharynx sighed, glancing over at Soarin and Rainbow. “They’re called grapes, by the way.” “Grapes… I love grapes.” Soarin decided, as Rainbow began pickpocketing the sleeping students. “I believe I deserve some… compensation for my speed… my cunning, and my role in this endeavour.” Rainbow said, and Pharynx stormed over, grabbing the money and wallet and stuffing them back into the student’s shirt pocket. “You do. Me not bucking you into a wall.” Pharynx snarled at her, and she chuckled. “Think I’m scared of you, Pharynx?” “Guys.” Spitfire and Tempest spoke as one, getting their attention. “Monarch!” Gallus cried, and they saw him lean down, scooping up the kitten, who began purring contentedly, happy to be back with his owner. “Guys!” Luna called, and they walked over, seeing her standing by a stone unicorn mare in a band uniform, looking terrified. “She’s stone…” “Yona was definitely here. Everycreature stay on your hooves.” Tempest said “Since we’re here, let’s check out the school.” Spitfire said “No.” Gallus stopped her. “Yona wants revenge, she’ll have gone for Sandy… h-he’s in the castle…” “Then that’s where we’ll go.” Tempest told him. “Says who?” Spitfire asked “Says me.” “Says you. And that’s supposed to mean something to me?” “Girls.” Luna spoke, and they glanced at her. “...To the castle.” Tempest said, and they nodded, rushing off. Meanwhile, in an old cottage in the forest, Yona was staring into the gem in the Staff of Sacanas, watching Tempest and the others leave the school grounds. “How did Tempest break my spell?!” Yona asked, and Blueblood trembled nearby. “I-I don’t know.” Yona grabbed a bowl of fruit on the table and dumped out the fruit, holding up the bowl. “And what is Spitfire doing here?!” “N-No no no!” Blueblood shrieked and ducked as Yona tossed the glass bowl at the wall. “Where did they go, Blue?! Where did they go?!” “I-I don’t know! I-I can go check for you, if you want-” “Stay!” Yona commanded, and he crouched on the floor. Yona walked over and began stroking his mane like he was a dog. “It’s about to get a little ugly.” “Sandy!” Gallus called frantically as they entered the castle hallway leading to Sandbar’s room. “Gallus, Sandbar could be asleep anywhere.” Tempest reminded him. “Or turned to stone.” Discord put in, and Luna covered his mouth with a hoof, nodding to an already nervous Gallus. “Sandyyy!” Gallus continued calling. Monarch meowed loudly and leapt down from Gallus’ claw, meowing and padding down a corridor. “Wait, I think Monarch’s got his scent!” “Really?” Soarin asked “Yeah. He gives great cuddles, too.” Gallus chuckled as they followed the cat. “Cool. I never had a pet growing up.” Rainbow remarked. “Except for the stuffed bird mom and dad made but that’s not exactly-” “Hold up.” Spitfire said, stopping them and touching a hoof to a completely torn painting. “What’s this?” “Um… any chance this was already like that?” Thorax asked Gallus, who shook his head. Monarch meowed again and Gallus ran after him. “Sandy!” The group found themselves in a large room filled with sets of armor. “What is this place?” Thorax asked. “Armor room, some of the guards store their weapons and uniforms in here.” Pharynx supplied, as Rainbow examined a sword. “I can feel you looking~” she told Pharynx as he approached her. “Good.” he muttered. Soarin was leaning down and petting Monarch, who was standing obediently by Discord, who had waited by the doorway. “So he can track and cuddle… do you think his kittens would be just as fluffy?” Soarin asked “Hey, he’s taken. You want a pet, adopt one from a rescue shelter.” Gallus told Soarin, who nodded. Discord got Monarch to come over to him and picked him up. The rest of the group continued moving around the room, searching. “I bet you lost some sleep thinking about me on the loose, huh?” Spitfire asked Tempest, who looked away. “Good soldiers don’t sleep.” Tempest put a hoof to her chin in thought. “I wonder if cooked Phoenix tastes like chicken.” “Okay, why don’t we not do this?” Luna suggested. “We’re celebrating our differences.” Spitfire retorted. Elsewhere, back in her cottage, Yona stared into the Staff’s gem, cackling evilly. All at once, the armor surrounding the group began to move. Thorax shrieked and hid behind Pharynx. Tempest and Spitfire didn’t notice, too busy arguing with each other. “I believe we’re being challenged.” Rainbow told Spitfire, who held up a wing for silence. “Let’s split up and look for Yona.” Spitfire said. “That makes no sense, unless you give me the Bell she’s going to spell you.” The armor continued moving, and Rainbow slapped Spitfire with her wing. The mare turned to her, clearly angered by the slap. Rainbow ignored the look she was being given and pointed at the suit of armor. “Guys! We kind of have a situation here!” “You like Princes so badly?” Yona’s voice came from a suit of armor directly in front of them. “How about a knight in shining armor? Or knights.”
Watch Your FlanksWith one last cackle, Yona’s voice faded out, and all the knights began approaching them, their swords drawn. The group backed up to the center of the room, all of them beginning to sing. “Watch your flank, watch your flank Watch your flank, watch your flank We will counter their attack Let’s hit ‘em til the armor breaks!” “This could get a little sticky!” Spitfire sang out, directing Soarin with a wing, who ran over and grabbed some spare swords, tossing one each to Rainbow and Fleetfoot, then passing one to Spitfire, who continued singing. “Winning this battle will be tricky! But I know the way, now fall back and let me lead! You hold the line and my team’ll bring them to their hooves!” Tempest beckoned for Pharynx to grab some swords for them, and he did, passing them to the others, though Thorax fumbled with his. Tempest raised her sword in her crackling aura, singing out loudly. “Swords up high in the air if you’re for me! These things have us outnumbered one to twenty! But victory will be ours if you listen to my strategy! Spitfire’s team takes the left and the rest of you follow me!” “No way!” Spitfire objected, and the girls glared at each other, muzzle-to-muzzle. “This is my crew!” Tempest shouted at her. “This is my team!” Spitfire shot back. “Well this is my turf!” “For the love of Rising Dawn!” Luna exclaimed, stepping between the two. Luna looked between them, singing. “Look guys, we’ve clearly got bigger fish to fry! So put your differences away We’ve got to work together to win today!” Luna raised her sword, still singing. “Until these knights fall, everyone-” “I swear we’ll stay together ‘til the battle is won.” Spitfire and Tempest sang, glaring at each other still, expressing a mere truce and no more. The group all sang as one, beginning to fight the suits of armor, their swords clashing together. “Watch your flank, watch your flank Watch your flank, watch your flank! We will counter their attack Let’s hit ‘em ‘til the armor breaks!” “Until the knights fall, we’re aligned!” Luna sang. “Don’t think that means we’re on the same team!” Spitfire and Tempest told each other, sneering. “Watch your flank, watch your flank Watch your flank, watch your flank! Hitting hard and hitting fast But we can’t get them to react!” Pharynx and Thorax clashed their swords as one against a suit of armor, but it didn’t move. Tempest rushed by with Spitfire, the two hitting one suit of armor as one. Tempest began singing as she struggled against a suit of armor with a larger sword. “This situation’s getting kind of heavy! Hold to your weapons tightly, keep them steady! If we stick together we might make it out alive I’ll cause a distraction, Spitfire, attack it from the side!” Spitfire did as Tempest said for once, stabbing it in the side and tossing it away, then began battling two at once, singing. “All my team will stand at the ready! Let’s cut them up like confetti! I’ll hit from the front, Tempest, counter from behind! And don’t forget the fate of Equus is on the line!” Tempest followed Spitfire's directions and got one of the knights from behind. The entire group began singing again as the suits of armor got closer, keeping them in the center of the room. “It’s all out war, our group is outnumbered! The sound of swords clashing is like thunder!” Tempest held her head high, aiming her sword at a suit of armor as she thrust it. “But we’re not going under, we won’t ever run and cower!” The others answered as one, charging again. “We battle for victory but we’re fighting for each other!” “Until the knights fall, everyone-” Luna began “I swear we’ll stay together ‘til the battle is won!” Spitfire and Tempest chorused “Flank to flank, flank to flank Flank to flank, flank to flank We will counter their attack Let’s hit ‘em ‘til the armor breaks.” “Until the knights fall, we’re aligned!” Luna called. “Don’t think that means we’re on the same team!” Spitfire and Tempest told each other. “Flank to flank, flank to flank Flank to flank, flank to flank Hitting hard and hitting fast But we can’t get them to react!” Tempest and Spitfire each blasted the suits of armor at the same time, Tempest with a bolt of electricity and Spitfire with a burst of flames. The attacks hit and combined to form a shuddering ripple in the suits of armor that made them stop. Tempest grinned, then stepped forwards and ignited her horn. “Suits of armor are strong and true, let’s make this metal copy some moves!” All at once, the suits of armor froze, and Tempest jumped up into the air. The armor copied her. She continued, dancing, as the armor copied her. Spitfire jumped up and took her place, also dancing, then Gallus leapt up. The girls jumped over and all began dancing in different styles, so the armor didn’t know who to follow. “No!” Yona shouted, watching from far away in her cottage. The boys joined in, Discord leaping forwards and adding some moves of his own, snapping his fingers and causing about ten copies of himself to appear, helping to confuse the armor with their own dance moves. “Until the knights fall, you can trust-” Luna started “I’ll help you win this battle because-” Spitfire and Tempest added, smiling at each other slightly. They then all sang, dancing around. “I got your flank, got your flank Got your flank, got your flank! All for one and one for all’s a fact! Then the knights fall, pitch black!” The suits of armor collapsed, unable to take any more. Discord laughed, and with a snap of his fingers, his duplicates disappeared and the knights were wrapped up in a plaid ribbon. “You’re really getting the hang of the whole ‘having magic’ thing.” Thorax said softly. “Sometimes I still forget I can shapeshift.” Discord chuckled as the others all began cheering. From the cottage, Yona screamed in rage.
Coming Together“Whoo! We did that!” Spitfire cheered, looking at the pile of suits of armor. Tempest laughed, and the two girls faced each other, hooves raised for a high hoof. “That’s what I’m talking-” They stopped, then retracted their hooves. Meanwhile, Gallus, Thorax, and Pharynx were congratulating Soarin, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot, the groups seeming to finally be getting along. However, they split up again and went back to their leaders, Gallus picking up Monarch from where he’d been left in the doorway. Luna’s hopeful look stayed on. “Guys, come on! This was so great! We were a team! We worked together! Come on!” she tried to take Tempest’s hoof, but Tempest shook her head. Luna then reached for Spitfire, who also turned her away. Luna sighed, then smiled. “You know what we should try? An icebreaker.” Both groups stared at her, including Discord, who was watching silently from the doorway. Pharynx facehoofed and groaned under his breath as Luna turned to Spitfire and her team. “You say something you really like about the other creature. I’ll start.” Luna surveyed the group for a moment, then looked at Rainbow. “Rainbow Dash, you have a great mane. Now you go.” Spitfire stared at her, then looked to Tempest. “Is she always this optimistic?” “Uh, Spitfire, it wasn’t really your turn. But thank you.” Luna said, taking it as a compliment. “Okay, Lu, a word?” Tempest pulled Luna over to her. “First of all, I love you.” “Love you too bestie.” “I love this energy, but we are very short on time.” Tempest reminded her. “Yona obviously knows we’re here so we need to get out of here.” “Alright, where does this perky cheerleader bunk?” Spitfire asked, interrupting the conversation. “Even if she’s not there, we might find a clue.” “She’s still in the school dorms.” Luna told her. “She has summer school.” Rainbow burst out laughing. “Summer school? Summer. School. No wonder she wants revenge!” “Alright, this will work best if we split up. Pharynx, Thorax, Gallus, Rainbow, Soarin, go find Sandbar. The rest of us will search Yona’s dorm. Meet back up at Luna’s in two hours.” Tempest directed. “So it sounds like we’re going with my plan. Just saying.” Spitfire remarked. “It’s kind of the obvious plan.” “Spit said it first.” Soarin jumped in. “Right, so it’s my plan.” Spitfire smirked. “Whatever.” Tempest said in exasperation, leaving the room. “Come on!” Tempest and Luna entered Yona’s dorm, having searched around the school. Discord was sitting at Yona’s vanity while Spitfire lay on her bed with Fleetfoot. Fleetfoot was being spooned by Spitfire, the two fillies looking at a diary that lay in front of them. “She’s nowhere on campus. Any luck here?” Tempest asked “We found her diary.” Spitfire said, chuckling. “Dang did Gallus ruin her life.” “Okay, but did you find anything in there we don’t already know?” “She hangth out at Thecret Cottage. You know, where her father grew up before he moved hith clan up to the mountainth and became the king.” Fleetfoot reported, snuggling up to Spitfire. Tempest nodded. “Yes, that makes sense… I wonder if she ever took Sandbar there. If we can find him he might be able to tell us where it is.” “You know, I don’t see how anyone with this bed could ever be unhappy.” Spitfire said, stretching out on it. “Ha!” Discord turned to face them, wearing a tiara and a long string of pearls. “Does this make me look more feminine?” Luna turned to him, giving him a look. “The bling stays here.” “But she’s bad!” Discord protested “And we’re not.” Luna retorted. Discord sighed and with a snap of his fingers it was back where he’d found it. Meanwhile, the others wandered through the forest outside the castle. “Sandy!!” Gallus called. “Sandy!!” “Man, these things grow everywhere!” Soarin said, pulling some berries off a bush. Pharynx walked over, mentally checking to see if they were edible. Soarin ate one and Pharynx said nothing, knowing they were safe. “Hey, we should play that icebreaker!” Thorax, Rainbow, Gallus, and Pharynx glanced at him. Soarin looked around, then focused on Pharynx. “Pharynx, I like the way you can do parkour. It’s cool.” Pharynx blinked, then shrugged and walked over. “Um… I like how you can get a kick out of a berry bush.” he said, taking some for himself. “I guess you’ve probably seen everything by now, huh?” Soarin asked softly. “Moving rocks, giant clouds… grabbing lunch off a bush…” “Not really. I just use the vending machines after sports practice.” Pharynx shrugged. “Guess I should try other things too sometimes.” “Ha! Sports? That’s a foal’s game!” Rainbow laughed “Oh shut up, you don’t even know what sports are.” Pharynx shot back, and Soarin tapped his shoulder. “Hey, you know what would be fun? Going river rafting in a jungle.” “Or discovering a lost civilization of changelings…” Pharynx said. “I know there’s bound to be more out there somewhere.” “Or find a Thunderbird!” Soarin exclaimed. “I-I think they might not be that common, but sure.” Pharynx agreed “You guys are killing me!” Rainbow exclaimed, walking over. She took a berry, ate it, then grinned. “Nice. Oh, hey, Gallus, your cat went that way.” “What? Monarch!” Gallus shot off in the direction Rainbow had indicated, the others following as they heard Monarch’s frantic mewing. Tempest and Luna led Spitfire and Discord up the path to Luna’s house. “You know, I hope the others find Sandbar, for Gallus’ sake.” Tempest said, as they approached the small castle. “Woah, nice digs.” Spitfire said, and Luna shrugged. “I got a good deal.” The group headed inside, and Tempest’s eyes widened. “Oh no…” Gilda and Gabby were curled up on the floor, sleeping with their wings around each other. Garble was passed out on the couch, Smolder on the other side of the couch, sleeping on her back with Ocellus asleep on top of her. “We completely forgot about them…” Luna whispered. Discord walked over and snapped some blankets into existence, letting them fall over the five creatures. “It’s alright.” he told them, eyes soft. “We’re going to get you back awake soon. We’re going to fix this, and then, they’re going to let all the kids come over from the Isle.” Tempest bit her lip nervously at this, but no one noticed. “Wait… if they’re asleep then-Snow!” Luna rushed over to her studio, where they found Snowdrop. She was lying on her side, slumped over onto the work table with her glasses askew. “Who’s that?” Spitfire asked. “Snowdrop!” Luna raced over, nudging her gently with her muzzle. “Snow? Wake up! Wake up!” “She’s spelled.” Spitfire reminded her, looking at Tempest. “Is she not a fast learner?” “She’s emotionally involved.” Tempest explained, making her friend blush. “Well, in that case, she should be able to wake her up.” Spitfire said, and Luna looked at her. “True love’s kiss? Works every time?”
Reunions“W-We haven’t actually used the L word yet…” Luna whispered, and Spitfire rolled her eyes. Luna leaned in, then pulled back. “Can we be alone?” Spitfire rolled her eyes again, but she and Tempest left. Luna sighed and stood up, pacing around. She began to sing nervously, looking at Snowdrop. “Don’t freak out, it’ll be okay True love can save the day I’m pretty sure we feel the same But I don’t really know When we met, it was so sweet She was so, so into me It really seems we’re meant to be but I don’t know. Does she love me? Does she love me not? Do I truly love her? And will it be strong enough?” As Luna sang this, Spitfire and Tempest crept back over to the doorway, watching her. Luna looked at Snowdrop nervously. “One kiss-” “One kiss.” Spitfire and Tempest echoed, prompting her. “It’s all come down to this One kiss-” “One kiss!” “Oh oh oh oh, One kiss-” “One kiss!” “This moment could be my ‘it’ I really really want to know! So here I go…” Luna lifted Snowdrop in her magic and held her up, then paused and pulled back. Spitfire groaned and rolled her eyes. Luna laid Snowdrop on the worktable, continuing to pace around. “I’ve got to keep cool, keep calm I’m pretty sure she’s loved me all along Though maybe I’ve got it wrong But I don’t really know She’s so sweet, always got my back But maybe I’m just too corrupt Could we be a true match? Now I really don’t know Does she love me? Does she love me not? Do I truly love her? And is it strong enough? One kiss-” “One kiss!” Spitfire and Tempest continued encouraging “It’s all come down to this One kiss-” “One kiss!” “Oh, oh, oh, oh One kiss-” “One kiss!” “This moment could be my ‘it’ I really really want to know! So here I go… Here I go…” Luna leaned down to Snowdrop again, then paused and rushed out of the workspace through the door that led outside. She flapped her wings. “I can feel my heart beating telling me that it’s gonna work! But if I’m just dreaming then it’s only gonna hurt! Either I will or won’t What if I do but she don’t? Is she truly my princess? There’s only one true way to know!” Luna strutted back inside, standing over Snowdrop. Tempest and Spitfire had given up practically banging their heads on the doorframe now and decided to make themselves scarce. “One kiss, one kiss! It’s all come down to this! One kiss, one kiss! Oh, oh, oh, oh! One kiss, one kiss!” “This moment is my ‘it’! I really, really wanna know! So here I go… Here I go Here I go Here I go…” Luna finally leaned down, lifting Snowdrop’s head up with her hoof, and kissing her gently. She then leaned back, watching Snowdrop desperately. When nothing happened, Luna turned away, not noticing Snowdrop’s head raised slightly. She sensed something was off and turned back around to see Snowdrop’s head thunk back onto the table and a snicker escape the filly. “Dropsy!” Luna exclaimed, hugging the filly tightly, and Snowdrop giggled, feeling around for her glasses, which Luna levitated over and put on her face. “Oh Dropsy…” Snowdrop smiled and leaned in close, and the two kissed once more. Meanwhile, the others still were looking for Sandbar, following Monarch as the kitten mewed, padding along and sniffing the air. “Sandy!” Gallus called “Ugh, something smells…” Rainbow said, covering her muzzle with a hoof. There was a growling noise, and the group froze, Gallus scooping Monarch into his claw. A huge were-pony like monster stalked out from between the trees. It rushed at them, growling and snarling ferally. Thorax shrieked and hid behind Pharynx, who lunged forwards and shoved it into a tree, when it came at them again Rainbow knocked it over. But in an instant, it was back on its feet. Pharynx grabbed Rainbow and pulled her out of the way as the monster charged again. The group formed a defensive circle, watching as the beast climbed a small hill and roared. Gallus then recognized the shaggy green fur and his eyes widened. “S-Sandy?” he asked, and the group looked from Gallus to the monster. “He seriously needs a trip to the groomer.” Rainbow said, but Gallus stepped over, setting Monarch down. “I don’t think so… this is Sandy, Yona must’ve done this.” “I thought I recognized that… really torn up jacket.” Pharynx said, looking at the shreds of fabric. The monster roared at them, then whimpered and looked at its hoof. Gallus’ eyes widened. “Oh, he’s hurt. That’s why he’s upset.” Soarin said “Uh… Gallus, if, you know, you thought this might be a good time to go, uh… do something about your fiance…?” Pharynx said, shielding Thorax. “O-Okay… yeah…” Gallus looked down at the ring on his claw, then nodded and stepped over to the hill, climbing up. “Sandy…? It’s me, it’s Gallus.” Sandbar growled at him, but he held out his claw, the one with the ring on it. “It’s Gally, Sandy. It’s me.” Gallus said. “You helped me when I was scared… you always have… let me help you.” Sandbar growled, then slowly held out his hoof. Gallus took it in his claw, seeing a large splinter in his hoof. He winced slightly. “Oh Sandy… it’s okay, I can get it. Claws can come in handy sometimes.” Gallus gently grasped the splinter between his claws. “It’s okay. In one… two…” He yanked it out, and Sandbar roared in pain, as Gallus tossed the blood covered splinter away. “There you go, you did it.” Gallus said, as Sandbar turned to him, he looked less ferocious, but still angry. “Um… Sandy…?” Before anything else could happen, two jets of water shot at Sandbar from behind the group, and magic surrounded the transformed colt. They turned around to see Ember and Celestia, both holding water guns and firing at Sandbar. “Em!” Thorax exclaimed, and she blushed slightly, looking over at him with a smile. The girls stopped, and Thorax rushed over to Ember, jumping over and hugging her tightly. Ember giggled and hugged back. “Oh sweet Rising Dawn I’m so glad you’re okay!” the two said as one, before continuing to hug. “...He’s with a dragon? Isn’t he the one that’s afraid of spiders?” Rainbow asked, and Pharynx chuckled. “Yeah, surprising, right?” Pharynx looked over at Celestia, who was twirling her water gun. “Nice going girls.” “Thanks.” she grinned. “I’m just glad it worked.” “What do you mea-” “Sandy!” Gallus exclaimed.
All Together AgainThe group turned to look at Sandbar. He was back to normal, except his mane was a bit longer, and he had a slight beard. “Wow, that was weird…” Sandbar panted, as Gallus felt his beard, giggling. “I could get used to this…” he said, pecking Sandbar on the cheek. “I think he needs another spray.” Ember said, one arm around Thorax. She held up the water gun and sprayed it at him, but nothing happened. “Huh. Guess it can only do so much.” “What is it?” Soarin asked “Water from the Enchanted Lake. It kept us from falling asleep so we took some, just to see if it would work.” Celestia explained. “Well, thanks for saving us.” Thorax said, nuzzling Ember affectionately, and she blushed heavily. “Hold it.” Sandbar leaned against Gallus, looking at Soarin and Rainbow. “Whose side are they on?” “They escaped the Isle and joined us, Fleetfoot too.” Pharynx explained. “Tempest has Grogar’s Bell, which she says is the only way to stop Yona. Details to follow, let’s go.” “Hey, wait, does that mean you went back to the Isle?” “I told you details to follow, we’re meeting up with Tempest, Luna, Discord, Fleetfoot and Spitfire-” “Spitfire?!” “Details to follow!” Pharynx, Thorax, and Ember shouted at him at the same time. “...Okay. Okay.” Sandbar sighed, and Gallus led him down along the path, nuzzling him and kissing his cheek. The others followed, Celestia hurrying along after the king at the mention of meeting up with her cousin. “Hey, uh, Pharynx?” Rainbow walked over to the changeling as he walked beside his brother and Ember. “Thanks for, you know, saving me back there.” “Yeah, uh, no problem.” Pharynx responded, and they followed the others down the path. Back at Luna’s castle, Tempest paced around as Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Discord helped themselves to the cake that was still sitting in the kitchen. Spitfire and Fleetfoot had picked out all the gems from the cake. Tempest paused and moved over to Spitfire. “That was a really good idea.” she said, continuing when Spitfire didn’t respond. “To check Yona’s room. Now we know we’re on the right track.” “...Is there an insult in there that I missed?” Spitfire asked. “No, I just wanted to thank you.” Tempest told her. Spitfire smiled slightly. “No!” Yona yelled in frustration, staring at them using the staff. “Think you’re on the right track? You’re not going anywhere!” Yona looked up at Blueblood, who was looking nervous. “Let’s mess them up a little.” “...I say we go back to my place and maybe binge watch some TV.” Blueblood suggested, and she glared at him. “Or order some stuff online? Yeah?” Yona waved a hoof and forced him down to his knees. “What about pizza?” Blueblood said, and she forced him down onto his flank. “N-No, you don’t like pizza… Yakyakistan food!” Yona then thrust the staff forwards, sending him flying into a broom closet and locking the door, ignoring his pleading screams. Yona laughed and twirled, walking away from the closet as Blueblood pounded on it frantically. “I don’t know whose birthday it is but I want this cake.” Spitfire said, licking the frosting off a gem. “Even if I can’t eat half of it.” Tempest chuckled, eating her own slice, picking out another gem with her magic. “I… might’ve messed some things up by… you know, calling you weak and not letting you join my gang…” Spitfire looked down, then chuckled. “Yeah. We really could’ve torn up the Isle together.” The two chuckled and continued eating, until a wood plank clashing against the window startled them. They stood up, rushing to the window as more and more planks appeared, blocking them in. The two girls gripped each other as the light was slowly blocked. “Fleety!” Spitfire shouted. “Luna! Discord!” “We’re trapped!” Discord shrieked, rushing over as Luna and Fleetfoot raced in, Snowdrop behind them. Fleetfoot clung onto Spitfire, while Luna and Snowdrop hugged each other. Tempest ignited her horn and began chanting frantically. “You’ve caused the ones I love enough fear, we’ve had all we can take so disappear!” Tempest shouted. “No… it’s not working, Yona’s magic must be getting stronger!” Spitfire then looked down, noticing that her necklace was glowing and pulsing with a light bright as a fire. She stepped closer, then took Tempest’s hoof. She nodded to her, then they both began chanting. “You’ve caused the ones we love enough fear, we’ve had all we can take so disappear!” they shouted. There was a moment of silence, and then the boards fell. The two, unable to hear Yona’s scream of surprise and anger from her cottage, turned to each other. Luna stepped over. “You did it… together…” Luna said, smiling. “See? This is what I’ve been talking about.” “Yeah, well… I guess my necklace likes you.” Spitfire told Tempest, who chuckled. Spitfire unclipped her necklace, pulling the Bell off of it. The Bell returned to it’s normal size and she held it out. “Why don’t you hold onto that?” Tempest’s eyes widened as she took it. The two hoofbumped, chuckling and smiling. Discord went to the window, and then turned back to Tempest, grinning. “Your bugfriend’s back.” Tempest’s eyes widened and she rushed outside. The others followed her eagerly. The two groups joined up, Tempest rushing over to hug Pharynx while Spitfire and Fleetfoot greeted Rainbow and Soarin. Gallus and Sandbar went over to Luna and Snowdrop while Discord waved at Thorax, Ember, and Celestia. “You guys okay?” Pharynx asked “We’re fine.” Tempest nuzzled him. “You guys good?” Soarin asked his two friends. Spitfire and Fleetfoot nodded, group-hugging him and Rainbow. “I told you you could be part of the solution.” Sandbar told Spitfire, chuckling as he rested in Gallus’ embrace. Spitfire rolled her eyes and chuckled slightly. “Heh… alright.” Tempest kissed Pharynx’s cheek, then pulled away from him, addressing the group as a whole. “We think Yona could be at Secret Cottage. Did she ever take you there, Sandbar?” “Every father’s day. Even before we started dating, we’d been friends for a while.” Sandbar explained. “Alright, so that’s where we’ll-” “What do you mean mom’s not here?!” Celestia exclaimed, drawing their attention. She and Luna were standing nearby, facing each other. “I thought she and my mom were at Ember’s party!” “No! They hadn’t arrived by the time the sleeping spell hit, I tried calling her but I didn’t get any service!” Luna hugged her cousin tightly, and the two girls held each other. Snowdrop, Ember, and Thorax went over, comforting them gently. Thorax looked at Ember, beckoning for her to follow him a bit away.
A Plan And A Truth“Did you need something Thor?” Ember asked softly, and Thorax blushed. “I… yeah, I…” Thorax pulled out a small blue box with a red ribbon on it. “I meant to give this to you at your party, but…” Ember took it gently from him, smiling. She opened it, and her eyes widened, lifting the gift out of the box. It was a necklace with the word Embrax hanging from a gold chain. The ‘x’ had a small pair of gems, a teal opal and a ruby, on it. “I-I made it with the 3D printer in the dorms, before school ended.” Thorax explained nervously. “I-It’s our names put together, you know?” “Heh, yeah, I get it.” Ember said, looking at it. “Ember and Thorax make Embrax.” “Heheh, yeah!” Thorax said eagerly. “I could’ve done Thember, but… I went with Embrax… d-do you like that better? I can remake it-” “Thorax.” Ember took his hoof, smiling at him. “I love it, it’s perfect.” Ember smiled and set it in his hoof, turning around. Thorax giggled and reached up, placing it around her neck and fastening the clasp. Pharynx chuckled, watching his brother hug Ember, the necklace glinting around her neck. He then looked at Tempest, and took a breath. He reached into his jacket, opening his mouth to say something, but then Sandbar trotted over. “Snowdrop!” he called, and she looked over. “Go with Ember, Celestia, and Luna, we need to find Rising Dawn and Nebula Star.” “Uh, they might need some muscle.” Spitfire pointed out. Ember looked over. “Hey! Are you saying I can’t be tough?” Ember asked. “Well, I’d feel better knowing you had a little extra backup…” Thorax said, followed by the others nodding agreement. Pharynx nodded, dropping the small box back into his jacket and giving an inaudible sigh. “Well, I could go.” Soarin said. “Me too.” Discord put in, eyeing Celestia, who blushed slightly. “No, you stay here.” Tempest said, as the group of five headed off. “Be safe.” Thorax told Ember, who nodded, blushing. “Alright, the rest of us will head to Secret Cottage. Let’s get ready.” Tempest said, and they nodded. Later on, that night, the group crept through the forest, Sandbar in the lead. Gallus stuck close by his side, the group following behind. Sandbar took Gallus’ claw and led him over to an ornate metal gate, opening it carefully and creeping in. Tempest rushed over, the Bell held carefully in her magic. She stood beside the couple as the others followed them. Sandbar then led them to the door and pushed it open loudly. They were met with silence. The cottage was empty. Pharynx rushed up the stairs as the others spread out, looking around. Spitfire conjured a flame with her wing, lighting a torch on the wall and grabbing it, using it to light the room. Pharynx came back down the stairs, shaking his head. “Not upstairs.” Then, they heard a frantic pounding. Sandbar, who was closest to the source-a door-unbolted and opened it. Blueblood was crouched beside the door, looking shell-shocked. “Blueblood?” Pharynx, Sandbar, Tempest, Thorax, and Gallus asked. He looked up at them. “I want my mommy…” Blueblood whispered. Sandbar reached down and pulled him up. “What happened to you, Blueblood?” Sandbar asked, and Blueblood seemed to register who it was. “Sandbar! Sandbar!” Blueblood grabbed him, shaking him slightly. “S-She’s gone? The door’s open… I’m free. Freedom!!” Blueblood rushed out of the cottage, continuing to shout happily. Rainbow began laughing as they left the cottage. “Well, clearly Yona was here…” Tempest sighed as they left Meanwhile, Celestia, Luna, Ember, Snowdrop, and Soarin ran over to the steps of the Museum of Equus History. There, they found both Rising Dawn and Nebula Star frozen in place, looks of worry on their stone faces. “No!” Luna cried, rushing to her mother. “Mommy! Mommy!” “Mother!” Celestia ran to Rising Dawn, touching her cheek. “M-Mom…? I-I don’t know if you can hear me… but… today’s been crazy…” The others watched silently, sitting down on the steps as Luna followed her cousin’s lead. “Everybody’s under an evil spell… but on the plus side… Dropsy and I are together now.” Luna said, smiling slightly. Snowdrop blushed as Ember and Soarin elbowed her. “We’ll figure out how to undo this, mom.” Celestia promised, hugging the statue. “We’ll figure out how to make this right.” The others smiled softly at the two girls, who then joined them. Luna snuggled up against Snowdrop and Celestia leaned dejectedly against Ember, who rubbed her back in comfort. The group headed back through the forest, and Spitfire sighed, stabbing the torch into the ground, the flame still flickering. “Alright, let’s get this Yona girl taken care of already.” she said, and Tempest chuckled. “What do you say Temp, about time to wrap things up?” Tempest chuckled and nodded, hoof-bumping her. Sandbar looked at them for a moment, then smiled. “You know, someday, you guys are gonna have to tell me how you all got teamed up.” “Oh, it’s because Tempest promised that you’d let all the kids off the Isle once this is over!” Thorax said cheerfully, and Tempest froze. Sandbar also stopped short, causing the rest of the group to stop as well. Gallus’ beak skewed nervously as he saw his mate’s expression. “Wait, you what?” Sandbar asked, and Tempest took a breath. “I-” “Wait!” Gallus stepped forwards. “I have something to tell you guys…” “Oh, sure, what?” Thorax asked Gallus took a breath, then closed his eyes. “...The kids aren’t coming off the Isle… we’re closing the barrier for good… and it was my idea.” “What?” they all stared at him. “I know, I-I’m sorry, Tempest didn’t know, that’s why she-” “No!” Tempest pushed Gallus out of the way gently. “No, he’s lying.” “So who’s right then?” Spitfire asked, glaring at her. Tempest screwed her eyes shut. “...He’s not lying about the barrier, but… it wasn’t his fault. I lied. I’m the one who forced Gallus to suggest closing the barrier, he didn’t want to…” Tempest glanced up at Thorax, Pharynx, and Sandbar. “But I made him StarBlight Swear it.”
A Story To TellPharynx and Thorax’s eyes widened, gazes flicking up to her horn. Tempest’s voice shook as she continued. “I made him tell them what I thought. It was my idea to close the barrier. The program to bring more kids over is cancelled. Equus’ safety was more important…” Tempest stood still, waiting for the objections. And sure enough, they came. “Hold it.” Spitfire held up a wing, then trotted over to Tempest. “So we’re saving your precious kingdoms, and your flanks… for a lie?” “Spitfire-” “No.” Spitfire glared at her. “I knew it was a mistake to trust you. Always looking out for yourself.” “And you, King Sandbar.” Rainbow stormed up to him. “You’re probably just going to throw us all back in there, aren’t you?! Good job, forgetting that the kids on that Isle are your citizens too.” Sandbar tried to protest but all that came out was a muffled whimper. Gallus went over to him, hugging him tightly and burying his head in his shoulder. The two boys held each other, nothing but shame and sorrow wafting off them. “You know what?” Discord walked over to Tempest. “I actually thought you were brave. But you’re nothing but a coward! Too scared to even tell me I was never going to be able to see my father again!” “Discord, I-” Discord snatched the Bell from her aura and looked around, spotting the torch Spitfire had discarded. He walked over to it. “Discord, n-!” Tempest began, but Discord had thrown the Bell at the torch, then walked away. The Bell crashed into the fire with a hiss and Tempest shrieked. “Discord, no! No!” Tempest ran over and grabbed it in her magic, holding it up and shaking it. It no longer glowed with power, dull and faded. Tempest charged up her horn while the others silently watched her frantic attempts to fix the Bell. “Regain your former might and come back to life!” she shouted, but nothing happened. “Regain your former might and come back to life!!” Tempest bit her lip and looked over at Spitfire. Spitfire looked from the Bell down to her necklace. She touched a hoof to her necklace, then shook her head coldly. “Shame.” she said, putting a wing over Fleetfoot and beckoning for Rainbow to follow them. “Let’s find Soarin and leave them here to burn.” “No, wait!” Tempest called. “Spitfire!” Tempest then turned back to her friends. Gallus was cradling Monarch, the tiny kitten seeming very confused. Sandbar hugged him gently, looking at Tempest with anger and pain in his eyes. Thorax walked over to Pharynx, almost glaring at Tempest through tears. Pharynx stared at her, shock visible in every part of his expression. “G-Guys, I… I’m so sorry-” “If Luna were here she would be so disappointed in you.” Thorax snarled. “I’m sorry! I had to do something, I… I was afraid! There, I said it!” Tempest cried out, gritting her teeth. “I didn’t want to lose my friends! I had to protect Equus, it’s the one thing I can do!” “Closing the barrier was your idea.” Pharynx said, as though still trying to process it. “I did it for us!” Tempest insisted. “I did it for our life!” “For our life?!” Thorax shouted. “What about everyone we left behind?! What about Smolder and Gabby? If they hadn’t come over now would you have left them behind too!? If… If Ocellus and Gilda and I hadn’t come when we did, would you have left us?!” Tempest’s eyes widened. “No! I-!” “Then why leave them behind?! Because they’re not your friends?!” Thorax screamed, storming over to her. “You promised them! You were supposed to be their only hope! I thought you would stand up for them, for us!” Tempest looked down at the ground, struggling to hold in tears. Pharynx went over and put a hoof on his brother’s shoulders, glaring at the ground beneath his hooves. “And to think I was almost going to… forget it.” Pharynx spat, dragging his brother back to the others. “You lied to them Tempest. You lied to us.” “I thought we were supposed to be your family.” Thorax whispered, pressing against his brother. Tempest looked up at them, tears pooling in her eyes. “Thorax…” “Save it.” Thorax spat, hugging his brother tightly. Gallus and Sandbar held each other, Gallus reaching a claw down to Monarch. “G-Guys, come on, I had no choice!” Tempest screamed, but before any of them could even register what she said, there was a blinding flash, and Tempest shielded her eyes with a hoof. When she moved her hoof, her eyes widened. They were stone. All of them, frozen in place, expressions varying from angry to sad. “No…” Tempest sank down onto her haunches, sobbing. “No…” She was all alone, without any idea what to do. Tempest sobbed, tears streaming down her cheeks. She began to sing, voice breaking. “H-Here I am, all alone I won’t say I don’t deserve it The ones I love have turned into stone And I know it’s all on me.” Tempest stood, still crying, and walked to the stone creatures, reaching and touching Pharynx’s cheek, tears falling. “I knew I had a cause to stand for But I didn’t even serve it I saw myself in a light that wasn’t the truth.” Tempest pressed her forehead against Pharynx’s, her horn sparking as she kissed his forehead, crying. She continued singing, voice growing stronger as she moved to run a hoof against Thorax’s head, then walk to Gallus and Sandbar, placing a hoof gently on the stone Monarch’s head. “Why did I tell those lies? It just proved I was unworthy There’s no solid ground for me to stand on now A pile of lies was never going to be a good foundation You just can’t build a palace if the stone’s made of sand!” Tempest strode to the now burned-out torch, gripping the Bell tightly. “This is not my father's dark desires! And no, it’s not my uncle's bell of ire! When my story comes into the light I’ll make sure the story that they write will go-” Tempest began striding through the forest, the Bell held up in her aura. “Once upon a time, I stood up for what I believed Once upon a time the monster was me! Once upon a misspent fillyhood I will face myself and speak my truth! That’s how I’ll write my story! Right now Once upon a time I still tried harder! Once upon a time I tried again and again! Once upon taking the braver choice I took a risk and used my voice! That’s how I’ll write my story Right now.” Tempest moved steadily through the trees, sure of her strides. She raced out, seeing Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Rainbow walking across the grounds of the castle. “Spitfire!” Tempest shouted, chasing the three. “Spitfire, stop! Please, stop!” Tempest skidded to a halt in front of them, forcing them to stop. “I need your help, please! We have a chance if we do this together!” Spitfire blinked at her. “Your friends kick you to the curb? I don’t blame them.” “Spitfire, when you captured Sandbar, he saw something in you, and I saw it too today! You care! You care about everycreature, and Equus is worth saving!” Tempest exclaimed, eyes full of desperation. “Help us… please…” “You can talk pretty all you want.” Fleetfoot told Tempest. “But she’th already made up her mind.” “You brought this on yourself, Tempest.” Spitfire said, walking off with her crewmates. “You figure out how to fix it.” With that, they were gone. Tempest, panting, turned, continuing to sing. A memory flooded into her head, of her battle against her father at Sandbar’s coronation, of her friends helping her, Luna, Pharynx, and Gallus stand up against their parents. “Life is not like a storybook Though it can unfold in chapters If you turn the page and start to make peace There still won’t be a guarantee of a happy end Step into the greatness you can be before the book closes! So when the story is all said and done they will say,” Tempest climbed the steps up to an outdoor balcony, now remembering when she had had doubts about herself. When her friends had done everything they could to bring her back home, and save Sandbar. When she first discovered Storm Breaker, while she was fighting Spitfire. “Once upon a time, I went higher! Once upon a time, I tried to make it right! Once upon a time that’s bound tight I changed my heart to try and change their minds! It will be how I write my story! This is how I write my story! I’ll finally see my true story’s end! Right now!” Tempest finished, standing strong despite the dried tears on her face, reflecting back to the most recent memories, of what she could scarcely believe was just earlier that day. Celebrating Gallus’ engagement, when Grogar attempted to escape, getting the Bell from him, then when the others turned to stone. And now, an unknown future. “Help me Tempest!!!”
Stormbreaker's Strike“Help me Tempest!!” Discord’s voice rang out, and Tempest’s eyes widened, turning to see lightning crackling from the highest tower. “Yeah, come save your little friend, Tempest!” Yona’s voice shouted, cackling. Tempest growled and called on the storms, summoning Storm Breaker. She rose into the air, spreading the wings of electricity and flying up to the tower as fast as she could. Yona stood on the turret, Discord cowering behind her. Tempest shot a blast of electricity at Yona, but she countered it with the Staff, laughing. Yona fired her own blast, but Tempest swerved and dodged it. Yona continued blasting at Tempest. “Tempest, help!” Discord shouted, as Yona dragged him over and held him tight in one hoof. “Careful, wouldn’t want to shock your little VC buddy.” Yona laughed. Below them, Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot flew back over, drawn by the noise. They looked up, seeing Tempest hovering in her Storm Breaker form as Yona laughed from the turret. Tempest pulled out the Bell, blasting it with her horn in a desperate attempt to recharge it. “She doethn’t thtand a chance without the Bell.” Fleetfoot said “Tempest, help me!” Discord cried, struggling. Unfortunately, his last shout was enough of a distraction for Yona to blast Tempest, hitting her square in the chest. She cried out, wings flapping desperately to regain control. Yona didn’t seem to care, laughing. Then, Discord managed to break free and tried to run for it. “Hold still you little brat!” Yona shouted, chasing him around the small area of the turret. “Come on!” Spitfire spread her wings and shot up to the struggling filly. Fleetfoot and Rainbow followed her, and together the three managed to catch Tempest, stopping her fall. “Sp-Spitfire?” Tempest asked, as Spitfire grabbed her by the shoulders, flapping her wings to steady her as Rainbow and Fleetfoot supported her sides. “We’re stronger together.” Spitfire said, her necklace glowing brightly. “We’re stronger together, Tempest. I’m right here.” Tempest breathed a sigh of relief, then lifted up the bell. Together, the girls shouted out. “Regain your former might and come back to life! Regain your former might and come back to life!” they cried, Tempest doing so with fresh tears in her eyes. After a tense pause, the Bell began to glow and crackle. It pulsed, shining with light, glowing even brighter than before. “Yes!” Rainbow cheered, and Spitfire and Tempest smiled at each other. “Alright, I can catch myself now, you guys have to get out of the way, I don’t know for sure what will happen!” Tempest called. “Alright, we’re going to drop you on three… one… two…” Spitfire loosened her grip. “Three!” On three, the three pegasi let go and flew off, getting out of the way. Tempest spread her electric wings wide and soared back up to the turret, seeing Yona intimidating Discord, aiming the Staff at him. “You want some of this? Do you?!” “N-No!” Discord shrieked, snapping his fingers desperately, but in his panicked state all he managed to do was make a cotton candy cloud appear. He yelped and shielded himself as best as possible. Tempest growled, lifting up the Bell in her magic as she hovered threateningly over Yona. Yona turned and laughed wickedly, raising the Staff as Tempest raised the Bell. Then, just as Yona fired a blast from the Staff, Tempest rang the bell. A blast of stormy looking, yellow energy shot out and met Yona’s blast. The two were then in a battle of wills, each trying to force their beam of magic to the other. Discord cheered, and Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot shouted encouragement from below. Tempest unleashed a yell of rage, ringing the Bell again. “That’s for trying to hurt my friends!” she shouted. The second force of magic from the Bell pushed away Yona’s blast. It hit the Staff, and Yona collapsed, laying still on the turret. Spitfire whooped and Fleetfoot kissed her, as Rainbow cheered. Discord stood up, watching as Tempest flew down to him, landing on the turret. She stayed in her Storm Breaker form in case Yona got up, but relaxed her posture. “Tempest!” Discord ran to her and hugged her. “Discord, are you okay?” Tempest asked, and he nodded. Then, they saw Yona. She was back in the very same outfit she’d been in earlier that day, when Sandbar had proposed to Gallus. But she wasn’t moving, just lying there on her side, her eyes shut. The crown and the staff lay beside her. Tempest, eyes wide, moved over to her. “Yona…” Tempest felt her neck, eyes going even wider. “Oh no…” “You’re only half me, and that’s from your satyr father. It won’t do everything for you that it does for me.” “No no no…” Tempest murmured, as Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Rainbow flew up to the turret. “Something wrong?” Spitfire asked, then gasped, seeing Tempest staring in shock at Yona’s body. “Oh no.” “There’s a way…” Tempest murmured. “There’s got to be. Spitfire, go get help, the others should be unspelled by now but just in case, go for Celestia and the others, they’re probably still free.” “On it.” Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot shot off without another word. Tempest crouched over Yona as Discord moved closer. Her eyes watered as she stared at the young yak. Back in Luna’s little castle, the others were beginning to wake. Gabby and Gilda sat up, feathers ruffled, blinking in confusion. Smolder shifted slightly, yawning, and Ocellus opened her eyes, blushing when she found her muzzle inches from Smolder’s. Smolder giggled and pulled her in for a kiss. Garble, who was sitting up, rolled his eyes, but smiled all the same. “Anyone else hungry?” Gabby asked. “I bet that cake’s still good.” Smolder said, sitting up and holding Ocellus in her arms. “You guys could just pick out the gems and we’ll eat ‘em.” “Yay! Cake!” Gabby squealed, and the group ran to the kitchen. Celestia and Luna had begun to stand up, sighing, when there was a sudden bright flash. In an instant, Nebula Star and Rising Dawn were back. “Mom!” “Mommy!” The two alicorn fillies rushed to their mothers and hugged them tightly. Their mothers hugged back. “Celestia, what happened?” “It’s okay mom. The spell must’ve broken… that means Tempest and the others fixed everything.” Celestia said “Hey!” Spitfire shot up to them, and Rising Dawn and Nebula Star immediately ignited their horns. “No! They’re on our side!” Luna called, looking at Spitfire. “What’s wrong?” “Tempest needs help! Yona’s hurt!” The others, still frozen in place where Tempest left them, were back in a flash of light as well. They looked around in confusion, realizing Tempest was gone. “Temp!” Pharynx shouted, wings buzzing as he took off running. “Come on!” Sandbar called, and Gallus scooped up Monarch, the two of them and Thorax following Pharynx at a run. Tempest still crouched over Yona, head low in grief. She heard hoofsteps and flapping wings, knowing the others must have returned. “We’re going to fix this Yona, I promise.” she said, tears falling. “I’m not losing you. You deserve a second chance.” “Tempest!” Pharynx burst up onto the turret, then saw her lying beside Yona, crying. “Temp…” “Phar… she…” Tempest choked back a sob. “I didn’t mean to…” Pharynx rushed over and caught her in a hug, letting her bury her head in his shoulder. He held her gently as the others caught up. They were soon followed by Spitfire flying up to them, leading the others, Rising Dawn and Nebula Star included. Gasps came from all around her, but Tempest tuned it all out, pressing against her boyfriend. “It’s alright Tempest.” he murmured, holding her. “We’re going to fix this, it’ll be alright, I promise.”
Decisions and New DifferencesTempest paced around in Yona’s dorm room. She was still in her Storm Breaker form, too upset to properly change back. The others were also in the room, watching Tempest and Yona nervously. Snowdrop and Luna sat with Celestia and Pharynx, closest to Tempest. The others were scattered in various positions around the room. Spitfire and Fleetfoot had curled up by the window, while Sandbar was snuggling into Gallus by the fireplace, his beard gone. Ember and Thorax were holding each other’s hoof/claw, watching from where they were standing by the door. Discord was sitting at the vanity, though he no longer made any movement to mess with Yona’s things. Yona herself was lying in her bed, still unconscious. Tempest paused momentarily to stare at her. Pharynx glanced up at her, concerned. “She’s slipping away, isn’t she?” Celestia asked softly, and Luna nodded solemnly. Tempest closed her eyes, gritting her teeth. “Guys… there’s only one creature who might be able to fix this, and it’s Grogar.” “Grogar?” Sandbar asked. “There’s no way he’d do it.” “No. He might do it for me.” Tempest told him, and Luna’s head shot up. “Temp-” “No, it’s alright.” Tempest took a breath. “I’m done lying.” Tempest turned to the others, opening her eyes. “Grogar is my uncle. My father’s brother.” Sandbar blinked in shock, then nodded. “Alright. We’ll have to send some guards to get him.” “My crew and I can hitch a ride. The Isle is my home, someone needs to be there to protect it.” Spitfire looked at her team. “And I know if some of them want to stay here, they’ve got packing to do.” “Hey, we’re your crew. We’re not going anywhere.” Rainbow said. “A captain always needs her first mate.” Soarin added, saluting her with a wing. “I’m going too. I really wish I could be in both places. But I need my dad.” Discord said. “Of course. The Isle will be in good hooves.” Tempest murmured, then looked away from the others. Pharynx walked over to her, placing a hoof on her shoulder. “Tempest, it’s okay.” he gently nuzzled her, lifting her chin and looking her in the eye. “We don’t care who your uncle is, and because he is your uncle, Yona might be saved.” “I just…” Tempest closed her eyes. “I’ve been trying to forget that we’re related this whole time.” “I know.” Pharynx gently stroked her mane, kissing the base of her broken horn. “But I promise, it doesn’t matter to any of us.” “You don’t speak for everyone Phar…” Pharynx sighed, then looked at Sandbar, giving him a nod. Sandbar’s eyes widened, then he gestured for the others to follow him to the other side of the room. Tempest watched the exchange in confusion, until Pharynx guided her eyes back to him, reaching into his jacket. “Been trying to do this all day…” Pharynx murmured. “You want proof that no one cares? I’ll give you proof.” Pharynx then pulled out the velvet box. Tempest gasped and stared at him in shock. Pharynx blushed slightly, opening the box. He held it out, showing her what was inside; a golden ring with a violet purple amethyst in the center. “I’ll always love you Tempest.” Pharynx told her, eyes watering. “I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Tempest Shadow, will you-” “Just give me the ring you big sap!” Tempest pulled him close and kissed him. Pharynx wrapped his hooves around her neck and kissed back, using his magic to slide the ring onto her horn. They pulled apart, and Pharynx chuckled. “So that’s a yes then?” Tempest blushed and gently punched him in the shoulder. He chuckled, hugging her. “I think you can transform back now…” “Right…” Tempest smiled at him, as the others came over. Luna hugged her friend tightly, squealing slightly. “Two engagement parties to plan! Two weddings to plan!” Luna cried eagerly. “I think she’s in heaven.” Snowdrop giggled Tempest chuckled, then closed her eyes, horn sparking. Her own magic washed over her and the electricity crackling around her body vanished. However, when the magic reached her wings, there was a blinding flash, and everyone stepped back. Tempest covered her eyes, then moved her hoof as the flash disappeared, hearing gasps from the others. “What is it?” she asked, and Spitfire pointed at her back. Tempest turned, and her mouth dropped open in shock. She had wings. They were the exact same mulberry shade as her coat, except for the very outer feathers, which were electric blue, like her magic. “Y-You’re an alicorn!” Luna and Celestia exclaimed. “Horn’s still broken though.” Spitfire said. “Makes sense, you probably wouldn’t be able to do that lightning thing without it.” Tempest blinked, spreading the wings. They were real, smoothly joined with her body. Luna and Celestia looked at each other. “We have to tell mom and auntie!” they said as one, and the two cousins promptly rushed out, frantic. “I… wait, does this mean I’m royalty now?” Tempest asked “You probably don’t have to be if you don’t want to.” Gallus said, and Sandbar nodded in confirmation. “Good.” Tempest kissed Pharynx’s cheek. “I think I’d be better off serving the army beside Pharynx anyway.” Pharynx chuckled and blushed. Tempest then moved over to Spitfire. “I think Luna was right all along.” she told her, folding her new wings to her side-that was going to take some getting used to. “We really could’ve been friends.” Tempest turned to the others. “And I’m really sorry that I lied to all of you, I’ll tell Luna too when she gets back. You deserved so much better than that.” “...You were just trying to do the right thing.” Thorax said, giving her a soft smile. “It’s okay.” “Agreed.” Spitfire reached and laid a hoof on her shoulder. “We’re good.” “I get it.” Pharynx lifted Tempest’s chin and kissed her cheek. “You just wanted to protect your home like you swore you would. I should’ve realized that instead of getting mad at you.” Tempest smiled at him softly, then looked over at the others. “S-So, we’re good?” “We’re good.” they all agreed as one, and Tempest laughed. “Now…” Sandbar looked over at Yona. “Let’s go get the only creature who can fix this.” Tempest nodded, taking a breath. “I’ll talk to him when he gets here.” “Are you sure?” Pharynx asked, and Tempest nodded. “I’m ready. This has been long overdue.”
RevivalsTempest was unsure how much time had passed when the carriage drove up to the school. She watched from the window, Pharynx at her side. Gallus and Sandbar stood beside Yona’s bed, where she still lay. Rising Dawn and Shell Scallop stood there as well, one on either side of Prince Rutherford. Sea Kelp paced the room. Tempest was oblivious to all of this, flinching slightly as she saw a blue hoof exit the carriage after the guards. “It’s okay.” Pharynx murmured. “I’ll be right here.” “I-I know.” Tempest said, giving him a confirming nod. Soon, there was a knock at the door of the dorm. Sea Kelp answered the door, then stepped back. Tempest and Pharynx turned to face the door as Grogar entered, his hooves bound in shackles. “Thank you for coming.” Tempest told him, walking over. “Didn’t have much choice.” he told her, voice cold as ice. Sandbar walked closer. “Can you help her?” he asked, glancing at Yona. “Since when do heroes care about villains?” Grogar scoffed, and the room fell silent. “That’s right. Because she’s one of your own.” Tempest opened her mouth, but Grogar spoke louder. “When one of you tries to destroy the world, it’s just an error in judgement. But when it’s one of us, it’s ‘lock ‘em up and throw away the key’. Right, sea monster?” he asked, looking at Sea Kelp. Sea Kelp looked away, and Grogar rolled his eyes. He then raised his forelegs, giving them a look when they jumped. “I’ll need use of my hooves.” Tempest glanced at Sandbar, who nodded. She stood before Grogar, using her magic to unlock the shackles, the engagement ring sparkling in the light from her aura and her new wings opening slightly as she did. Grogar raised a brow at them, but before he could say anything, Tempest stepped back, standing by Pharynx. She levitated over the Bell, and it locked onto the collar around his neck. Grogar grinned as a rush of power visibly surged through him, his eyes gleaming. “Haven’t lost my touch.” He walked past Sea Kelp, locking eyes with him. The two glared at each other, Grogar growling slightly. “Uncle.” Tempest spoke, and he glanced at her, then rolled his eyes, carefully walking to Yona’s bed, the shackles on his back legs rattling. Grogar stood at the end of the bed, then raised a hoof and touched it to the Bell, before waving it in an intricate pattern over Yona’s body. The room turned red briefly, and everyone backed up. Then, Yona sat up in bed, eyes opening. Everyone there gasped, and Tempest pressed against Pharynx. “Yona!” Prince Rutherford hugged her gently, as Grogar stepped back, letting the magic fade. Rising Dawn, Shell Scallop, and Sea Kelp stared from him to Yona in shock. Yona looked around, then spotted Sandbar, Gallus, Tempest, and Pharynx. “...Tell me it was a nightmare.” she whispered desperately. Tempest shook her head. “I wish I could. But it’s over now.” Yona stood slightly, then reached and hugged Gallus. “I’m so sorry… I wanted to hurt you… all of you…” Gallus hugged her back. “It’s not all your fault. I’ve owed you an apology for a long time.” “So have I.” Sandbar put a hoof on Yona’s shoulder. Prince Rutherford stepped closer. “And I have owed you one too.” he told them, bowing to Gallus, who bowed back. The guards surrounded Grogar again, and he shrugged. “Oh, right.” The guards began to lead him away, and Tempest followed them. Pharynx went after her at a distance. “Uncle Grogar.” Tempest called, and he turned. She took a breath. “...Now I’m going to have to miss you all over again.” Grogar raised a brow. “Really?” “From what I remember, you were the fun uncle.” she said, smirking slightly. Grogar chuckled. “Well, thanks for a glimpse of the sun.” he told her. Tempest moved closer, then hugged him. Grogar, surprised, hugged back. She then pulled away, and he pointed to the ring on her horn. “He better look out for you.” he said, glancing at Pharynx, who blushed and ducked back into the room. Grogar smirked, then his eyes then went to her wings. “Though it seems you can look out for yourself.” Tempest nodded, and Grogar smiled slightly. He bowed his head to her, and with a spark from her shattered horn, the Bell lifted off his collar, setting itself in Tempest’s hooves. Grogar chuckled, then let the guards lead him away. Tempest held the Bell close against her chest, taking a deep breath as she fought back tears. Pharynx stepped out and hugged her gently, kissing her cheek. “Hey, it’s okay.” Pharynx told her, smiling softly. “We did it.” She smiled back, nodding. “Yeah. We did.” Pharynx nuzzled her, then kissed her horn. “Come on. Let’s give Sandbar and Gallus some time to properly apologize to Yona. We need to head over to Luna’s or she’ll have our heads for not being there on time. Our outfits for Gal and Sand’s engagement party won’t size themselves, as she’d say.” Tempest nodded, smiling at him and wiping her eyes, still clutching the Bell. “Yeah. Come on.” The party was at the area where the bridge usually formed to cross to the Hidden Isle. Tempest stood with Pharynx, Luna, and Snowdrop below a balcony above the crowd. It was identical to the one they’d stood on on the Hidden Isle to announce who would be coming over, what felt like so long ago. Thorax and Ember stood nearby, talking eagerly. Yona stood with her father and Blueblood, smiling happily. Gabby, Gilda, Garble, Smolder, and Ocellus were in a huddle near the two, clearly making plans for things to do in Equus. Tempest smiled sadly at the group. Discord should be among them, but he had gone back to the Isle with Spitfire and her team. “Oh, there they are.” Luna said, pointing as Gallus and Sandbar walked out of a tunnel and up to the balcony, greeted by cheers. “Everyone, Gallus and I would like to thank you for celebrating our engagement with us today.” Sandbar said, then looked to Gallus. “I couldn’t be prouder, or happier, to call you my King.” Gallus giggled, smiling at Sandbar, who then beckoned for Pharynx, Tempest, and Luna to come up and join them. They did, accepting glasses of punch from the servants as they walked over. They stood by Rising Dawn and Nebula Star. “And so, raise your glasses.” Sandbar said, smiling. “To our future King of Equus, and his friends, our table of advisors!” “To our King of Equus!” they chorused, drinking from their glasses. Pharynx nudged Tempest, and she chuckled, turning to Gallus. “Speech, your specialness!” Tempest teased “Ah yes, speech, oh fancy one!” Pharynx echoed, causing laughter all over. “W-Well, I…” Gallus trailed off, then looked at Sandbar. “Sandy… I can’t.”
Bridging the DivideSandbar took his claw gently, and Tempest put a hoof on his shoulder. “I can’t be King of Equus.” Gallus said, closing his eyes. “I won’t turn my back on the Isle.” Murmurs of confusion came from the crowd, and Tempest gently tapped Gallus’ shoulder, beckoning for him to move out of the way. He did, and she stepped to the front. “I think I can explain.” she told the crowd. “A week ago, a decision was made to close off the barrier forever.” Gasps echoed through the crowd. Tempest nodded. “I will admit that it was my idea.” she added, causing more gasps. “But it was wrong. I was wrong. Closing the barrier for good will solve nothing.” Even more confused murmurs began to spread through the crowd. Tempest still continued on. “You cannot live in fear, it won’t actually protect you from anything. There’s no way of knowing where the bad will come from, or where the heroes are going to come from. Without Spitfire and her sky pirates, I can guarantee Equus would be gone. And without Grogar…” Tempest paused, then spoke. “My uncle…” The loudest gasps yet came from the crowd. But they let Tempest finish. “Without him, Yona would be gone.” she said, and as murmurs started, they all looked at Tempest for more. “We are all capable of good and evil, no matter which side of the barrier we come from.” “That’s why I can’t be King of just Equus.” Gallus said, stepping over. “I have to be King of the Isle too. Sandbar as well. It’s time to take the barrier down, forever.” “We can’t do that.” Sea Kelp butted in, stepping closer, but Shell Scallop tugged him back. “It’s up to us dad.” Sandbar said, looking over at him, then back to Gallus, then to the crowd. “I chose to be a leader who moves forward. It’s time for forgiveness. It’s time for new beginnings. It’s time to make a change. The barrier will come down!” Gallus hugged him tightly, and Sandbar kissed his cheek. The crowd all began cheering, the Isle kids cheering the loudest. Sandbar and Gallus turned to Tempest. “Bring it down, Tempest.” Sandbar said gently. Tempest smiled softly, then stepped forwards, beckoning for the rest of the original group, the one who took down the Storm King and the other villains, to join them. Celestia, Snowdrop, Ember, Gilda, Ocellus, and Thorax walked up to them. Rising Dawn walked over, lifting her crown off her head and bowing to Tempest. Tempest blushed, then lifted the crown in her aura. She set it down on her head, her wings opening as she did. Tempest stood in the middle of all her friends… and ignited her horn. “To make this world become a better place, we must be able to meet face to face!” she shouted. The crown gleamed in the light, amplifying the spell, which soared over the ocean, and in a flash, the golden barrier was gone and the constant storm clouds vanished. A white bridge began to form between the island and the mainland, with a silver and gold colored suspension. The crowd cheered and applauded as the group of creatures on the balcony smiled. Tempest giggled and leaned into Pharynx, who nuzzled her. The crowd began walking across the bridge, as on the Isle, all the kids and adults began heading for the new bridge in awe. Spitfire and her crew were towards the back, looking around in awe. “Heh… my plan.” Spitfire said, smirking. She then flew up to the balcony on her side of the barrier, her crew and Discord beside her. On Equus’ side, Tempest passed the crown back to Rising Dawn, then hugged her. She then walked to the edge of the balcony and began to sing. “It’s time to bring things together Time for a brand new day.” On the Isle, Spitfire chuckled and also began to sing. “Let’s put things in motion, break down what’s kept us apart.” Tempest sang louder. “No more division, it’s down One big team with a vision-” “Unite!” they sang as one, then Spitfire continued. “So we stand now living and marching In the light, one to two, one to two, like-” “I see you!” Tempest called “You see me!” Spitfire echoed “Imperfection!” “Yet perfect to me!” “When we’re face to face we can see our similarities Like-” they sang as one “Day or night!” Spitfire called “Wrong and right!” Tempest sang “We come together and have a good time!” The two different groups smiled at each other from the balconies, singing as Yona and Blueblood joined Tempest’s friends. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this!” Spitfire then took off, flying off the balcony and landing with a strut on the bridge. Tempest spread her own wings and soared down, landing on her end and walking confidently. “Believing in giving second chances!” Spitfire sang “And we’re starting off today!” Discord joined in “Gonna keep marching on in a better land!” Rainbow cheered “Our world’s gonna be a better, way better space!” Fleetfoot and Spitfire sang together The VCs began to cross the bridge, Spitfire in the lead, as Tempest did the same on their side. “Come on into unconditional love!” Luna called “Unity will be a new start for everyone!” Gallus sang “Harmony is a mission that’s marching-” Pharynx began “Into the light, one to two, one to two, like,” they all sang “I see you!” Tempest’s group shouted “You see me!” Spitfire’s crew and Discord echoed “Imperfection!” “Yet perfect to me!” “When we’re face to face we can see our similarities Like-” they sang as one “Day or night!” Celestia and Luna sang “Wrong and right!” Rainbow and Soarin sang “We come together and have a good time!” they all sang The groups met in the center of the bridge and began dancing together, smiling. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this! We’ve reunited through this!” Tempest and her group, all the kids who were originally from the Isle, turned and faced the Equus kids, standing by Spitfire. They all began to move in sync, the Equus kids joining in with synchronous moves of their own. “Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down! Down!” Gallus smiled and ran to Sandbar, hugging him as Luna ran to Snowdrop. Pharynx and Tempest strutted across, Thorax and Ocellus following with Smolder and Garble. Spitfire and the others seemed hesitant, but then Sandbar bowed to them, followed by Gallus, and then everyone did. Spitfire laughed and stepped across, leading the others. She ran and hugged Tempest, who hugged back. They all began dancing in a wave-like pattern, the couples spinning around and the single creatures joining up in pairs. They jumped up and down, span, slid, and twirled, then began singing again. “It’s time to tear this down Tear this down! We’re gonna rock the ground Oh, we’re gonna rock the ground! Everycreature from all around All around! Can be what they want with this Let’s go! We’re stronger now with this! Yeah! We’ve become united with this! It’s time to tear this down Tear this down! We’re gonna rock the ground Oh, we’re gonna rock the ground! Everycreature from all around All around! Can be what they want with this Let’s go! We’re stronger now with this! Stronger with each other! We’ve become united with this! Hey! Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down!” With that, they stopped, panting with effort and amazement. More people were making their way over, and Tempest hugged Pharynx, laughing. Smolder and Garble were running to their parents, Discord was being spun around by his father, and Gabby was dancing around eagerly. “Hey Thorax?” Ember asked, and he paused, looking at her. “I’m a little nervous about meeting your mom…” “Oh don’t worry, I’ll chase her off.” Pharynx chuckled darkly. “Been meaning to have a few words with her.” “Hey Pharynx!” Soarin ran over. “Rainbow, Fleet, and I want to try and convince Spitfire to go exploring for the next year, you in?” “Sure, I might join you a couple times.” Pharynx smirked. “Like I said, there’s gotta be more changelings out there somewhere, right?” The two hoof-bumped and then Soarin ran off again. Tempest grinned at Pharynx knowingly, and he shrugged, kissing her cheek. “You wouldn’t mind, right?” “Not at all. As long as one of those trips can be our honeymoon, I’m not going to some boring hotel for a week. I need action.” Tempest said, wrapping a wing around him, and he chuckled. “For you, my stormcloud, I’ll do it.” he said, and Tempest blushed, kissing him. A little ways away, Spitfire was dancing with Luna, laughing. “Heh, you know what? Temp came through after all.” Spitfire said, and Luna smiled, looking at her friend. “She always does.” Gallus and Sandbar smiled, dancing in the center of it all. “You worried about your grandfather?” Sandbar asked “Honestly? I’m more worried about him meeting Monarch.” Gallus picked up the kitten and placed him on his back. “Don’t worry, I’ll protect him.” Sandbar said, and Gallus giggled. “Me too.” “So, how’s this for an engagement party?” Sandbar asked, grinning. Gallus laughed and kissed his cheek. “Perfect!” Gallus hugged him tightly. “Let’s just hope our wedding is even better.” “I’ll be marrying you.” Sandbar cupped his cheek with a hoof, smiling at the griffon. “Of course it will be.” Gallus blushed and leaned in, kissing the pony lovingly. The two did not go unnoticed by most of their friends, the group gathering around and ‘aww’ing at them. Except for two. Tempest and Pharynx were walking back to the bridge. Grogar had just crossed it. “So, will I be invited to the wedding?” Grogar asked, and Tempest and Pharynx blushed. “Y-Yes sir.” Pharynx told him, while Tempest hugged him. “If you’ll agree to give me away.” Tempest told him, smirking. “You were always better at the whole dad thing than my father anyway.” “It would be my honor.” Grogar told her, then eyed Pharynx. “I’m sure you two will be very happy together.” Tempest smiled and nuzzled up to Pharynx, who draped a hoof around her neck. Grogar gave him a look and made an ‘I’m watching you’ gesture with his hoof. Pharynx gulped, and Tempest shoved Grogar lightly, shaking her head at him while smiling. “Welcome to Equus, Uncle Grogar.” Tempest chuckled, she and Pharynx leading him the rest of the way across the bridge. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this! We’ve reunited through this!” Tempest, Pharynx, Gallus, Luna, and Sandbar ran down an aisle the crowd created for them, followed by Celestia, Ember, Snowdrop, Thorax, Ocellus, and Gilda, then went Spitfire and her crew. “It’s time to tear this down We’re gonna rock the ground Everycreature from all around Can be what they want with this We’re stronger now with this! We’ve reunited through this!” Sandbar’s parents followed them with Grogar, Nebula Star, and Rising Dawn, then Smolder, Garble, their parents, Discord and Diataro, and Gabby. The rest of the crowd followed in groups, laughing and dancing. “Tearing it, tearing it, t-t-tearing it down!” “Do you guys ever miss it?” Luna asked. She, Tempest, Pharynx, and Gallus were standing at the bridge again, alone. “Yeah…” Pharynx murmured. “You think they miss us?” Tempest asked, smirking. “Yeah.” Gallus said, chuckling. “Cause we’re rotten,” Tempest began, holding out her hoof, and the others placed their hooves and claw over hers. “At the core.” they finished. “Hey, last one over the bridge-” Gallus began “Is a rotten carrot!” they all shouted, then raced across the bridge, laughing happily. Finally, there was a way across. And a way back home.
