Dreams of Forever

Chapters

Chapter 12: Of Bats and Ponies
Chapter 13: Responsibility
Chapter 14: My Sun and Moon
Chapter 15: Scavengers
Chapter 16: Ideals
Chapter 17: Fallen
Chapter 18: Pieces
Chapter 19: What We Must
Chapter 20: Service and Duty
Chapter 21: Unbroken
Chapter 22: Existence
Chapter 23: Hopes
Chapter 24: Growing Pains
Chapter 25: Secrets
Chapter 26: Gala-ctic
Chapter 27: Gifts
Chapter 28: Times Gone By
Chapter 29: Queen of Equus
Chapter 30: Plans for the Future
Chapter 31: Answers and Alicorns
Chapter 32: Now and Forever
Bonus: Tartarus
Chapter 33: One for the Road
Prologue: Distant Memories
Chapter 1: Welcome Home
Chapter 2: Skin-Deep
Chapter 3: Give and Take
Chapter 4: Regency Council
Chapter 6: Unbreaking
Chapter 7: Knowledge is Power
Chapter 10: Droplets
Chapter 11: Legacy
Chapter 5: Forever Free
Chapter 8: Devotion
Chapter 9: Celestial Guidance

Chapter 12: Of Bats and Ponies

When we were looking for information in the library, we found out what it is. It's called the Alicorn Amulet and it's a powerful artifact that can't be removed from her neck except by her.

I can't believe I didn't recognize the Alicorn Amulet!

The more she uses it, the more it will corrupt her!

But how am I supposed to beat that amulet? My magic's not good enough!

Twilight Sparkle, much work have you done. You learned all of my lessons; all but one. If Trixie's tricks have you in a fix, you must nix your magic and use the six.

"I don't know what you did, but Sweetie has been in an exceptionally good mood lately." Rarity pawed at Twilight's leg. "She even apologized for not listening to me earlier about getting her cutie mark."

"Yeah, and the little squirt said the same to me." Rainbow Dash swiveled towards them from the seat behind the two as they rode for Rainbow Falls on the Friendship Express. For Somnia, she anticipated the next two days more than any others since arriving back. They were headed to Rainbow Falls for the Equestria Games aerial tryouts, but that wasn't what she cared about. Sports were never of interest to watch for her, but ponies were. And for this trip, there were only two she anticipated watching.

"An' Apple Bloom's been spendin' a lot of time in her room with the others. Anythin' I should know?" Applejack nudged the princess with a satisfied and knowing grin.

"We just gave them a little advice..." Twilight cryptically said. "They understand what to do now to get their cutie marks."

"And I bet they'll love them even more than when they were trying to get them." Somnia bumped hooves with her mother, the three sisters giving quizzical looks.

"Whatever it was, I'm glad you could get through to her." Rarity glowed back. "It's been so hard seeing her have nightmares about her cutie mark."

"We told them the truth." Shield spoke up from where he was seated next to Fluttershy and Bulk Biceps. "No beating around it, we gave them our experiences unfiltered."

"And they all learned what it means to have a cutie mark." Dusty walked over to the group. "It's just a picture on the flank, it has nothing to do with who they are or what they can do."

"I think society places too much focus on it sometimes." Shield added thoughtfully rubbing his chin. "Puts too much pressure on them to fulfill a role rather than to be themselves."

"I'm sure Apple Bloom will get over it then." Applejack leaned back, stretching. "How much longer to Rainbow Falls?"

"Another hour or two." Rainbow checked the environment that passed by through the windows. "Crystal City was to our left about an hour ago so it shouldn't be too much longer."

"I thought the train was supposed to stop at its station?" Rarity questioned.

"New railways to prevent congestion." Twilight answered. "Princess Celestia has been sinking a lot of the budget into improving the infrastructure around Equestria." Secretly, she was suspicious the princess had something planned. Trains had been around for over two hundred years. Why the changes now?

"I- uhm- even read that a new line is to run directly between Whinnyapolis and the Crystal City." Fluttershy added, repositioning herself from under Bulk Biceps.

"Makes ya think, huh?" Applejack turned to Twilight. "I know that look, Twi."

"Have any of you thought about what Celestia really meant by 'administrative changes'?" She asked to the group at large, receiving general meh's. "I feel like she is changing so much about Equestria without consulting us. We're supposed to be members of the regency council too."

"The regency council that hasn't been implemented?" Rainbow looked between her friends conspiratorially. "How do we know that wasn't an empty promise? It's been nearly a month since she told us about it and she's done nothing."

Somnia, a moment in private?

Shoot.

Rainbow is right, this is suspicious. Perhaps we should talk to her next time we are in Canterlot?

Do you think she has something else in mind? If so, what?

I don't know, that's the problem. We need to work out who we can trust. If Celestia is planning to turn her back on us, we need to be prepared.

She was pushed from her thoughts by a boop on the nose. Scrunching up her face, her eyes readjusted to the pink booper with annoyance.

"I'll talk to her when I'm in Canterlot." Somnia spoke up to the group. "I'm also wondering what's going on."

The group continued discussions about the games and the changes around Equestria while they made their way to Rainbow Falls. Somnia spent the time staring out the window thinking. Who could she trust? All three of her guards were indebted to the regal sisters in some way, but all three were also directly susceptible to her influence. Her mom can be trusted, same with Grar. Obviously. Can the crusaders? Can the other elements?

She left her thoughts be when the snacks cart came by, choosing instead to indulge herself. The next two hours flew by as she indulged in the chocolate and candies, her thoughts drifting to sleep. A nudge from her mother got her to wake up from her dreams before they pulled into the station.

Her hopes for the next two days were reliant on Dawny following through with his original task, she would have to deal with Luna personally when she goes to Canterlot. While the elements went ahead of her, she pulled back with her guards so she could brief them on their assignments.

"Shield, Dawny, Dusty. The next two days are going to be a bit different from usual. Shield, I would like you to reinforce the security around Rainbow Falls, then I would like you to take the night shift."

"Wouldn't it just be better to--"

"No arguments!" She interrupted him. "Dusty, please keep an eye on my mom."

"Aye aye, princess." She sarcastically saluted.

"Dawny, you're with me for the day."

"I don't like the sound of that." He glanced nervously to the disapproving look of Dusty.

"No sex!" A few of the stragglers around the station looked over at the unusual proclamation. "This is serious, Dawny." Somnia grabbed his face. "I trust you to do your part."

"What's going--" Dusty was interrupted as Somnia trotted off. "Captain?"

"I gotta go to the security office." He excused himself. Dawn trotted after Somnia, leaving Dusty to stew about the impromptu change in schedule.

"Step one, find them." Somnia exited the station and headed towards the more concealed parts of the falls. It was unlikely that the Hollow Shades team would be near the others, given the reputation batponies seemed to have in the rest of Equestria. Going down the stairs to the lower levels of the falls, she spotted her target talking to a supervisor. "Done."

"Step two?" Dawn asked curiously as the filly trotted forward. With a shake of his head, he followed along reluctantly.

"Hey! Bloodsucker!" She yelled out to the two stallions talking. Duskwing turned around, a scowl on his face that faded as he saw who said it.

"If it ain't the Princess of Guard-duty!" He stepped forward, receiving an unexpected hug from the filly, his heart pumping a little lighter in the moment.

"What are you doing here? I thought Hollow Shades didn't have a team in the aerial competitions?" She asked, poking at his wing.

"Heh, yeah, well, a fan wrote me to say how much they were looking forward to seeing us compete." He scratched the back of his neck, finally taking notice of Broken Dawn.

"Duskwing, this is Lieutenant Broken Dawn of the Queen's Guard." She motioned with a hoof while moving out of the way.

"The Queen's Guard?" He raised a brow. "Never heard of it."

"Neither did I when I was transferred." Dawn shook hooves with Duskwing.

"Where's Nightwind?" Somnia asked, curious.

"Found a foalsitter for him while I'm away." He stretched out his wings. "Gotta admit, not really used to all the light."

"It'll grow on you." Dawn provided a reassuring smile. "I look forward to seeing Hollow Shades compete. Not many batponies willing to put themselves forward."

"Well then, I got a surprise for you." Duskwing led them back onto the upper level with the other teams, taking them closer to the mountain on the far side of the main field. Two other thestrals were gathered at a picnic blanket chatting away as they approached.

"Hollow Shades holding strong!" He called out, the other two looking over curiously.

"Who's these shits?" A mare spit out a seed onto the ground.

"Well, he's a bloodsucker like us, and she's a filthy sympathizer." He joked, sitting down on the blanket, Somnia and her guard sitting opposite him.

"You sure you know what you're gettin' involved with, kid?" She prodded Somnia's chest. The filly continued to sit firmly, head held high and smile on her face.

"I wouldn't do it if it wasn't the right thing."

"Wait." The other mare turned up from her sandwich. "Wait wait wait." She approached the filly, sniffing the air. "SHE'S AN ALICORN?!"

"Great observation, genius." The other mare snickered.

"Sadist Moon, Windbane, this is Princess Somnia. She's the filly I told you about." Duskwing smiled to both of them.

"Damn." Windbane returned to her sitting position. "I thought you were just propaganda. Did you really say you wanted to help us?"

"She's already making moves." Dawn added, motioning to Somnia. "Visiting the Canterlot wards, for starters."

"I'm serious. I'm not going to let ponies suffer when I can do something about it." She stated with pride.

"I'll believe it when I see it." Sadist Moon went back to her sandwich.

Somnia rubbed her stomach. "I'm a bit peckish from the ride over. Can I have some?"

"But didn't you- OW!" Somnia stomped on Dawn's hoof to shut him up.

"We got some veggie sandwiches packed, if you want some?" Duskwing offered with a gentle smile.

"Yeah, sure, give away our food." Sadist mumbled.

"Do you have any meat slices?" She asked excited. "Mom doesn't let me have any meat."

"Because she's a bitch." Sadist put her sandwich back down to look between the gathered ponies. "Seriously? What the hay's her problem with us?"

"You probably shouldn't eat meat." Windbane answered apologetically. "It's not healthy for herbivores to eat it."

"You're right." Somnia smirked. "I'm not a herbivore, now am I?"

"Your funeral." Sadist opened the basket to take out a wrapped package. "Try to leave some for the rest of us."

"Hold on!" Duskwing stood, stopping Sadist from hoofing over the meat. "I don't want her getting sick, or worse."

"I'm part thestral." Somnia pawed at his leg. "I can eat meat."

"The buck?" Sadist glared at her. "Is that supposed to be a joke?"

"Language! She's just a filly." Windbane chastised her companion.

"My dad was part thestral, so I'm part thestral. I've had meat before. I remember this one juicy steak from when I was back in Excalicorn..." Her mouth practically drooled at the thought of it, shaking her head to remove the thoughts and return to reality. "Come on~! Don't you trust me?"

"I trust you to make a mess of things." Dawn snickered, turning to the others. "I've seen her eat meat. It's fine."

Duskwing removed his hoof, allowing Sadist to hoof over the packet, Somnia digging into the slices with vicious abandon. "It's been too long..." She longingly moaned.

"I'm going to stand guard over there, if that's alright." Dawn messed up the filly's mane before getting up from the blanket. "It's been nice meeting you all. Name's Lieutenant Broken Dawn in case you need me for anything."

"Hey!" Windbane glared at him. "You're that disgraced captain, aren't you? Something about molesting a--" Her gaze fell to Somnia. "Buck..."

"Molesting a what?" Duskwing nudged her. "Doesn't sound like something they would just demote him over."

"You okay, kid?" She asked softly to the filly.

"Yeah. My back was a little sore, but otherwise he was pretty good." Somnia giggled getting looks of disgust from Sadist and Windbane, Duskwing biting his lip.

"You're one strange filly." He commented while Broken Dawn walked to his post. "Whatever. Probably some royal thing."

"You're kinda right." Somnia winked. "Can I see you practice?"

"Let's finish eating, then we can show you."

"Some ponies do what?" Twilight asked curiously.

Rainbow sighed. "Have a better chance of qualifying and going to the Equestria Games than others."

"You just gotta give them your attention. With you as their coach, I'm sure they'll improve in no time!" Twilight tried cheering her up with limited success.

"Yeah, sure." She flew up to talk to the team members. Twilight felt kinda bad for Rainbow, but she chose to go with the weakest team. Without her, Ponyville might not even qualify for the aerial relay. Wanting to get away for a bit, Twilight pressed a hoof to her ear, activating the magical node.

"Dawn, where are you?"

"Far side of the falls, near to where it makes impact with the pool." A voice sounded in her ear. Trotting over, she saw her daughter watching the three thestrals above practicing, Dawn standing a ways away scanning for threats idly. Twilight reached the blanket as the team began their descent.

"Well, it's quite an honor, princess." Duskwing smirked, landing in front of Twilight who withheld her scowl. "Come to watch your loyal subjects?"

"I came to see my daughter." Twilight deadpanned, turning to Somnia and adopting a softer tone. "Somnia, are you sure you don't want to watch the Ponyville team?"

"Yup! I'm practicing my cheering for Hollow Shades." She grinned back. "Hollow Shades holding strong!" The filly cheered.

"Getting better, still got a ways to go." Duskwing teased.

"Right. Just don't do anything funny, got it?" Twilight took one last glare at Duskwing before walking back towards the main grounds. Her mind couldn't shake the mixed feelings. Why did Duskwing aggravate her so much? Was Somnia really right about her hating batponies? Why did seeing him fill her with hope? Hope for what?

"Hollow Shades holding strong! Wooo!" Somnia cheered out as she watched the team do their loops and glides. Duskwing was in the last third of the relay, meaning he would be competing with the best of the best from around Equestria, and he was by far the strongest flyer on the Hollow Shades team. They would probably qualify, since as long as you have two decent flyers you can make it in time according to Sadist. Despite her initial skepticism, Sadist Moon warmed up quite a bit when talking about the history of the Equestria Games, something she excitedly kept her eyes on every two years.

The team descended for dinner, settling down on the blanket. Windbane was preparing their meal while Sadist, Duskwing, and Somnia relaxed.

"Y'know, it's actually nice to have somepony cheering for us." Sadist admitted. "Even if it's just a filly."

"A lot more ponies want to see you compete than you know." Somnia grabbed her hoof, offering a gentle smile into the thestral's eyes. "They need somepony to look up to. To give them hope that things are going to be okay."

"Why do you care about us, anyway?" Duskwing spoke up, folding his forelegs while Sadist pushed Somnia a bit back from her own embarrassment. "I don't see why you would care."

"Well, my dad was part thestral. He wouldn't have stood for somepony being mistreated. I guess I really admire him." She lightly smiled as she looked into Duskwing's eyes. She let it hang a few moments before continuing. "I don't like suffering. I have nightmares when I sleep. I see ponies hurting all the time. If I can reduce that suffering even a little bit, it's worth it."

"I still can't see how Princess Twilight would have a foal with one of us."

"Probably not her choice." Sadist muttered.

Duskwing sat up straight as part of him took offense. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"You know what I meant, Dusk. Haven't you been paying attention?" She raised a hoof. "She hates us! If that filly's dad was a batpony, then it only makes sense that would be the reason why!"

Before Duskwing could respond, Windbane returned with the meatballs she cooked. Waving over Dawn, they took a few meatballs each.

"Plenty to go around." Windbane smiled to the group happily eating away. "Gotta keep that protein high."

Dawn moaned in delight as he savored the meatball. "Ya know, I haven't had this much meat since that time in Canterlot."

"What's it made of?" Somnia asked, taking another bite of hers.

"Chicken and pork, mostly." Windbane admitted. "Since beef is illegal in Equestria, gotta get what we--"

"SOMNIA! WHAT ARE YOU EATING?!" A shriek from behind the group turned their attention to a terrified purple alicorn. She rushed over, grabbing the filly in her magical grasp, and teleported away.

They reappeared in the medical center, Twilight calling out to the nurses: "We need a stomach pump in here ASAP!"

"Woah." Somnia adjusted to the sudden disorientation from the teleportation. "Where... Why are we here?"

"Somnia, you can't eat meat." She picked up the filly and put her on a medical bed. "How much did you have? Please tell me they haven't been feeding you it all day."

"Yeah? Why can't I have meat?"

"WHERE'S THAT STOMACH PUMP?!" Twilight yelled out, the nurses quickly rushing into the room with a tube and small device in their grip. "She's ingested a large quantity of meat!"

"But mom--" She was cut-off as the nurses tried forcing the tube into her throat.

"Somnia, stay here." Her gaze fell to the door, frown trembling as her anger rose. "I need to take care of those monsters."

Somnia pushed against the nurses as they tried to force the tube down her throat, her mother having trotted from the room. The nurse fought Somnia every small increment. "Let. Us--"

Somnia pulled the tube from her throat, coughing up saliva. "I'm part batpony! I can eat meat!" She galloped from the room, leaving two stunned nurses in her wake.

Once she got outside, she spotted the gathered crowd. Moving her way forward, her mind silently cheered at the successful execution of the plan. Somnia pushed her way towards the front, catching the conversation loudly taking place at its center.

"She said she could eat meat!" Duskwing yelled back. "The lieutenant confirmed it!"

"He's a foal-fiddling son of a whorse! He'll say anything to buck my daughter!"

"Princess, please calm--"

"If you're not going to do something about these monsters, these... predators, then I will!"

"Oh? And what are you planning to do, princess? Call us meat-eaters? Bloodsuckers?"

"I'll have you arrested for attempted murder of royalty! Sergeant! Restrain him!"

Somnia broke through the front of the crowd. She could see the terrified look on Dusty's face, conflicted on what to do. Marching right up to her mother, Somnia gritted her teeth. It was all an act, but it needed to be convincing.

"What are you waiting for, sergeant?" Twilight yelled at her, before following her gaze to the incoming filly. "S-Somnia?"

"I can eat meat!" She shouted back.

"No! You can't!" Twilight softened her voice a bit, reaching out a comforting hoof. "Please go back to the medical station and--" Somnia swatted Twilight's hoof from the air.

"I'm part batpony! Dad was a thestral!" She declared, stunning the crowd into gasping, reducing their noise to hushed whispers.

The supervisor between them turned to the filly. "You're really able to eat meat?" The filly nodded keeping her eyes on her mother. "Then I don't see any weight to your request for disqualification, Princess Twilight."

"B-But..."

"Alright, everypony, nothing more to see here." He called out and the crowd began dispersing, a few ponies sticking around to see what was going to happen. By the time the group had dispersed to just Duskwing, Twilight, Somnia, and the two guards, Applejack and Rarity had come trotting over.

Dawn took up a position next to Somnia, standing at attention. Rarity was first to ask the question. "Darling? Are you alright?"

"I-I..." She couldn't believe it. No, this had to be a joke. An elaborate prank orchestrated--

Who am I kidding?

"It seems you and your daughter still have a lot to talk about." Duskwing said, a distinct sadness in his voice. "I'm sorry if we hurt you in the past, but we're not all like that. I hope you can look past whatever we did to hurt you." He walked away from the group, leaving them to discuss among themselves.

"You're wrong, mom." Somnia got into her mother's face. "Batponies aren't as bad as you think they are. They're just like us. Can't you see that?" She turned and walked in the direction of the Hollow Shades team.

"Twi?" Applejack waved hoof in front of the princess' face.

"I-I need a minute..." Twilight trudged away, head hanging low.

She couldn't shake the thoughts racing through her head from the day's events. Somnia hadn't spoken a single word to her since the argument, even the guards weren't really talking to her. Now she just lay in her bed, a light glow coming from her horn to read the book she had brought. It was a book Celestia had sent with her usual deliveries, but it was an unusual choice: A romance novel.

For whatever reason, her eyes couldn't help but water up at the story that unfolded within its pages. Reaching a particular passage about the two would-be lovers meeting on a balcony of the castle at midnight, Twilight got up from her bed. She left her room quietly, Shield paying her no mind. Going down the hallway, she rubbed her head, thinking about all the conflicting feelings running through her, leaving the lodgings out into the training fields to take in the fresh night time air.

Leaning on the railing separating her from the cliff's edge, she put her head in her hooves. Why did she hate them so much? Why couldn't she have seen it? The only answers were superficial, nothing she could reasonably justify. She didn't hate griffons, and they ate meat. Why only thestrals?

"Nice night, isn't it?" A flapping sound followed by a landing behind her alerted her to the one pony she didn't want to see right now.

"Leave me alone." Twilight mumbled back.

"Sorry, princess, but you gotta speak louder." Duskwing leaned against the railing next to her, smirking to her before slowly frowning at her scowl. "That bad, huh?"

She turned her head towards him. "I said--"

He put a hoof over her mouth. "I heard you the first time. I'm not leaving."

Twilight swatted it away. "What the hay do you want then?"

"I came out here to take in the beautiful night air." He turned away from her, leaning over the railing. "Luna's nights are truly something to admire."

Twilight leaned back onto the railing, looking out over the valley down below. The two stood in silence. The nightly winds were cold, but ever since Twilight became an alicorn it had gotten much more bearable.

"You really care about her." He whispered. "I know the feeling. My brother died shortly after the birth of his son. The mother, well, she didn't survive the birth on account of being sickly. I've raised that colt like my own, but even then he still finds ways to surprise me."

Twilight kept her mouth shut, so he continued. "Wanna know why I care so much about batponies? Because I was beaten by the Solar Guard when they came to Hollow Shades, thrown in prison on falsified charges, left to starve until Princess Celestia finally got around to convicting me.

Community service." He shook his head. "I served those hours alright. I made sure I put in a full days work for eight whole moons cleaning up Hollow Shades. I don't want anypony else to go through that. No kind of pony deserves to be treated like criminals based on the type of pony they are."

Twilight sniffled, her eyes refusing the order to stop dripping. "I-I'm sorry that happened to you." Her heart pounded and her eyes closed tightly. Why did she care so much? It was the sob story of a stranger, one she couldn't even trust to be truthful, and yet it felt like it was true. It felt like this pony, this stallion, wouldn't lie to her.

He shrugged, keeping his eyes on the moon. "Me and a lot more like me. We've been looked at like monsters since before our princess was sent to the moon. You get used to being called names, you never get used to the disgust or fear. I'll be honest, when I first saw you in Canterlot, I didn't know what to think. Celestia I was actually angry with, but you... I don't know. It felt weird. It felt like you just didn't understand."

"Why didn't I know?" Twilight whimpered out. "Why didn't I see it?"

Duskwing left her to sift through it herself. He didn't know what she was exactly talking about, so best to let her speak next.

The princess turned up to face him, tears running down her face. "W-Who are you?"

"Duskwing?" He answered with an uncertain smile, not sure where this was going.

"N-No, I mean..." She sighed. "Who are you to Somnia? Why did she go to see you? Why does she care?"

"I don't know. Maybe she's a fan?" He smiled to Twilight, locking eyes with her. Both of them held for what felt like minutes, their eyes both carefully examining one another.

"Y-Yeah... A fan..." Twilight shivered.

"Cold?" He raised a brow.

"I, um..." What did she feel? Sad, yes, cold, definitely, but something else. Something...

A wing was draped over her back, and she finally understood now. This was planned...

It was planned from the moment that little devil spotted him in Canterlot.

Leaning her head onto Duskwing's shoulder, she let herself be comforted by him. No more fear, no more anger, no more wallowing in guilt. She closed her eyes and nuzzled into his neck, smiling slightly at the show of affection as he brought her in tighter.

Right now, she just wanted somepony to hold her.

Her somepony.

"Somnia?" Twilight nudged her daughter. "Somnia~!"

She was asleep.

"No thanks to you." The fussy filly mumbled. "Mom?"

"Hey." She bit her lip. "Thanks."

The filly smiled, understanding perfectly what for. "You're welcome."

The two got ready for the day ahead of them. There was still a lot of practice time before the tryouts began, and Twilight wanted to make the most of it. Rather than going to see the Ponyville team, Twilight instead went with Somnia to where the Hollow Shades team was practicing. They were already mid-flight by the time she arrived so she simply sat down on the blanket and watched them. Or rather, him.

"Why didn't you tell me before?" Twilight finally spoke up, keeping her eyes on the ponies in flight.

"You hated meat-eaters. Didn't feel like I could without you just denying it. I needed to make you care, like when you didn't believe I was your daughter." The filly admitted, leaning into her mother's side. "He doesn't know."

"And your cousin?"

"Nightwind."

"Nightwind. Right."

The two continued to watch until they finished with the practice session to come in for a landing.

"What the hay is she doing here?" Sadistic hissed. "Haven't you already cursed us enough?"

"I'm here to apologize." Twilight stood up and walked over to them, her eyes briefly locking with Duskwing. "I really am sorry. I saw you as monsters, ponies that would try to harm my daughter. I was wrong. I am truly sorry for what I did, for ignoring the concerns that you brought forward to the princesses, for not seeing that you are ponies like any other."

"Apology rejected." Sadistic marched past the princess over to the blanket.

"It's going to take more than that. You were going to have us disqualified or thrown in jail." Windbane continued past her with an angry glare. Leaving only the two.

Putting a hoof to her ear, Twilight requested Dusty to wake up the captain before turning to Duskwing. "There's something I need to tell you in private."

"Is it a good thing? Or a bad thing?" He smirked, lowering his voice. "Or do you wanna get out of here and--"

"What?! No! Not that!" Twilight turned in a fuss slapping him in the face with her wing. "I see where she gets it from now."

"Who gets what from?" He followed after her chuckling as they went to a more private area a short trot away from the blanket. Twilight kept her mouth shut until the tired captain came trotting over.

"Princess Twilight, you woke me up?"

"I need a unicorn." She stepped up to him, whispering. "Did Somnia show you any interesting spells lately?"

He grinned. "I'll go get her."

As the captain trotted off, Twilight turned to Duskwing. "Do you know the story behind Somnia?"

"Something about getting caught in limbo, wherever that is?" He scratched the back of his head. "I don't really have much time to read the big papers. It's mostly propaganda or cherry-picked articles, anyway."

The filly and captain trotted back over to Twilight's relief. "First, me and him." She ordered.

The captain complied, scanning both of the ponies. He briefly took a look at the small note Somnia had written for him before nodding to Twilight. He then scanned Somnia and Duskwing, repeating the process with an affirmative nod.

"What's this all about?" Duskwing asked confused.

"I needed to know for certain." Twilight bit her lip, hoping this would go over well. "Somnia? Do you want to do the honor?"

The filly brought a hoof to her chin in thought. "I didn't actually think today would get this far."

"Think get what?" He fumbled over her words trying to understand what they were on about.

"Prince Mystic Nightflight?" Twilight raised a brow, stepping forward. "My younger brother, my former lover..." She got into his face, whispering one last thing. "Father of Somnia."

"What?" He backed his head away. "I don't have any foals. Only mares I've been with were batponies like me, and none of them ever got pregnant. No wild parties, no one-night-stands."

"We are reincarnations, Duskwing. We were her parents millennia ago. We were royalty long before Equestria was made, and had three foals together. Somnia is the youngest of them." She sighed. "I don't know what Celestia will do, but I know Somnia won't stop until we try getting back together. If you don't believe me, then we can go to the medical ward they have here to get a professional test done to prove it beyond a shadow of a doubt."

"So what do you say..." Somnia gave her biggest shit-eating grin. "Dad?"

"Can I..." He sighed. "Can you give me a few minutes to think about all of this? I'm still not sure what you're saying is true."

"Take your time." Twilight walked past him, flicking his nose with her tail. "Husband."

The two alicorns and their guard walked back towards where the Hollow Shades team were relaxing. A certain multi-colored mane caught Twilight's attention and she broke off to deal with that situation. The captain then left to go back to bed while Somnia continued over to the blanket.

"Looks like you told him he got her pregnant." Sadistic snickered, eyeing the bewildered stallion.

"He kinda did." Somnia laughed. "Three times!"

"Huh?" The two batponies looked to each other.

"So, the medic pony isn't sure what's wrong with you." Twilight raised a suspicious brow to her rainbow maned friend.

"Everything! Absolutely everything!" Rainbow leaned over dramatically, leg to her forehead.

Somnia trotted out of the room to give them a moment. It was so obviously fake, but nopony was willing to say it. Either that, or lying was a lost art. She shook her head as she entered into the small room with the anxiously waiting thestral. Taking a seat next to him, she spent the time kicking her legs back and forth impatiently for a few minutes until Twilight entered and sat on the other side of her. They awkwardly waited for the doctor to return with the results.

"What's going on with Rainbow Dash?" Somnia finally spoke up.

"She's faking an injury to avoid choosing between Cloudsdale and Ponyville." Twilight sighed. "I'm so over all of this..."

"Sounds... serious?" Duskwing commented, a nervous smile on his face. "Can't be all that bad? I mean, doesn't she live in Ponyville?"

"She does. And she needs to make a choice." Twilight stated simply. The doctor reentered the room with a clipboard, locking the door behind him.

"So?" Duskwing asked nervously.

"I wouldn't believe it if it wasn't for the rigor involved." The doctor cleared his throat. "Duskwing, Princess Twilight. You are the biological parents of Princess Somnia."

"And the test was done in triplicate like requested?" Twilight asked.

"Quadruplicate. There's no denying the results about parentage." The doctor flipped the page. "Although I still wasn't able to fully parse the results. The results suggest she is an unknown kind of pony, and also the result of heavy amounts of recessive breeding."

"Thank you, doctor." Twilight nodded to him. "Please send the results to the Golden Oaks Library in Ponyville and the Royal Palace in Canterlot, addressed to myself and Princess Celestia respectively."

"Of course, your highness." The doctor bowed before leaving them to discuss.

"Believe me now?" Twilight glared at Duskwing.

"I can't believe it..." He hung his head back, closing his eyes.

"I can!" Somnia snuggled into his side.

"Neither did I when I first found out she was my daughter." Twilight admitted, smiling at the cute display of affection from her daughter. "We do what we have to, especially for family."

"What am I going to tell Nightwind?" He moaned. "That our family is actually royalty? That he's actually cousins with Princess Luna herself? He has a plush of her by the moon's grace!"

"The truth." Twilight leaned close to his face, making sure her point stuck. "You'll tell him the truth."

He took a minute to come to terms with everything. Finally, eventually, he turned back to her. "Now what?"

Twilight scrunched her nose. She hadn't actually thought that far ahead. Somnia wouldn't stop until they were a couple, yet she still wasn't sure if they should try... dating. She never had a special somepony before, and it was a bit sudden. Even so, she did feel that lingering attraction to him, similar to when she had first seen Somnia and felt relief. And from what Duskwing had said, he felt the same way.

"You're pretty cute when you do that." He chuckled. "Don't know, eh?"

"Tell you what." Twilight finally got an idea. "I'm going to be attending the Rainbow Falls Exchange as the princess-on-duty. It will give us an opportunity to get to know each other. Bring along Nightwind so he and Somnia can..." She choked on what she thought Somnia would probably do.

"Hey! He doesn't know me. I want to know the new Nightwind." Somnia replied. "We might not even get along. Not that I wouldn't mind..."

"What's she talking about?" Duskwing glanced between them concerned.

"She's probably going to try seducing Nightwind." Twilight forced out. "They kinda had a thing back in the day."

"Aren't they--"

"Cousins, yes." Twilight glared into his eyes. "Remember: We're half-siblings with a foal of our own. We're in deep no matter what happens."

"R-Right." He nervously chuckled, patting his... daughter, on the head.

"Don't you still have some practice to do?" The filly looked back up to him.

He got up from the chair along with the other two and headed back to the Hollow Shades team. Twilight simply sat and watched, a smile crossing her face. She gave a contented sigh, different feelings bubbling up from the depths. It was like learning she had a daughter all over again.

"Hollow Shades holding strong!" Somnia cheered from the ground. "Wooo!"

"Go Hollow Shades!" Twilight called out. "You can do it!"

The princess was happy about how things turned out the past two days. Rainbow Dash learned a lesson about loyalty, she reunited with her long lost husband, and she also learned a valuable lesson about judging a kind of pony by superstition or the actions of a few. Wait, didn't I learn that back when Zecora came to town? Somnia was still a gargantuan pain in the flank, but that was unavoidable. There was going to be quite a lot of writing in the journal when they got back.

"You seem content." Rarity bumped Twilight with her hips. "Somepony catch your eye?"

"I'm just enjoying the view." Twilight smiled wider as she saw Duskwing take the horseshoe and began his third of the relay.

"Right. And you happen to spend half the day with them... because of the view?"

"Mostly for Somnia." Twilight smiled back, exchanging a knowing look with Rarity.

"You can do it! Go, Duskwing! Woo!" Somnia cheered out as he began the final ascent for the finish line.

The thestral dived through the cloud and a moment later the announcer called out:

"Hollow Shades qualifies!"

"YEAH! I knew you could do it!" Somnia cheered, turning in circles and hopping up and down while Duskwing and the rest of the team flew over.

"Damn, princess." Duskwing ran his eyes up-and-down Twilight's form. "That uniform looks hot on you."

Rarity gasped. "How uncouth!"

"Steady now." Twilight playfully squinted back. "Save it for the wedding."

"I still don't get what's going on." Sadist murmured as the rest of the Hollow Shades team took places behind them.

"Yeah, same here." Applejack added.

"Wedding?" Rarity gave a confused look to Twilight and Duskwing as they continued to glare at each other, both playfully smiling.

"I'll be sure to make up for all those missed millennia." He smirked.

"Go easy on me. I'm still a celestine."

"Tell that to our daughter."

"Would you two just buck already?" Somnia yelled out, stunning them from their staring contest.

"Somnia!" Rarity chastised. "Language!"

"What?" She looked back playfully before turning back to the Cloudsdale team flying through the course. They were the fastest out of all the teams, and everypony knew it. Next up was Ponyville, which Twilight and Somnia made sure to cheer for. They needed it.

"Go Ponyville! You can do it!" Duskwing called out suddenly to the surprise of a few of the other ponies.

"Yeah! Go Ponyville!" Windbane cheered from behind.

"Ugh." Sadist Moon swallowed her pride. "Go Ponyville!"

"YAY FLUTTERSHY!" Pinkie cheered out. "WOOO HOOO!"

They kept cheering all the way up to Rainbow Dash when the Cloudsdale cheerleaders began cheering for them. As Rainbow Dash shot threw the finish line, they waited in anticipation for the result.

"Ponyville qualifies!"

The team flew over to the assembled group, eyeing the Hollow Shades team with suspicion and a little surprise.

"Hey, thanks for the cheers." Rainbow landed in front of them. "I wasn't expecting so much support."

"It's all in the spirit of the event." Duskwing dismissively waved a hoof. "Besides, it wouldn't be appropriate for your cheerleaders to cheer for us without us giving you the same courtesy."

"Uh, right." Rainbow shook his hoof, still not sure what the make of the thestrals. Duskwing briefly turned to his 'wife', their eyes catching for just a moment before returning to the next team seeking qualification.

A few minutes passed before Twilight made her way to the back of the group, followed by Duskwing. "Did you think about what I said anymore? Do you still want to try making... this, a thing?" She asked uncertainly.

"Well, do I have a choice?" He chuckled back. "She's technically my daughter, I'm technically royalty, and we're technically married until 'death do us part'. Doesn't sound like I have a choice."

"You always have a choice." Somnia spoke from behind him, getting both of their attention. "I'm sorry if you think that I wasn't giving you one. You two don't remember each other, and I would understand if your disagreements are too much to overcome."

"Somnia." Twilight walked up to her, giving her a hug. "I'm happy you've found your dad, and I'm happy that I've found my former husband." She paused, giving Somnia to ask the follow-up.

"But?"

Twilight sighed, turning to Duskwing. "I can't shake the feelings. Can you?"

He shook his head. "In Canterlot, did you feel the same familiarity that I did?"

"I did, but I didn't want to believe it." She walked over to him, swallowing. "I've been thinking about it today. We may not know each other beyond these past two days, but I want to make this work. The last time I felt this way with somepony..." She didn't want to remember that discussion, it was still a sore spot for her. "I don't want to let it go."

"Y'know, I've had a lot of marefriends before." He slyly smiled to her as she narrowed her eyes. "But just being with you for a few hours has given me second thoughts about where my life was headed." He scratched the back of his head. "It never felt right with the others. But with you..."

"It feels right." Twilight smiled, bringing him into a hug. "I feel the same way."

Somnia silently cooed at the sight, heading back over to the other elements which were watching curiously.

"Seems they got friendly real quick." Applejack commented.

"They've always been closer than they knew." Somnia smiled back.

"Equestria Games, here we come!" The snapshot was taken of the Ponyville team, minus one filly. Twilight stepped away from the platform to watch the other teams have their photos taken. Somnia stood between the three Hollow Shades ponies as they got their photo taken, all four happy with their success.

Duskwing and Somnia trotted back over to her as the team dismounted the platform, the filly giving her a hug. "Thanks, mom."

"What for?" She glanced up to Duskwing as he approached.

"For giving him a chance. Again."

"Again?" Duskwing raised a brow.

"I should probably tell you both how you got together the first time." Somnia giggled. "Story for another time." She gave a hug to Duskwing before trotting off to leave them to say their goodbyes.

"So, the exchange?" He asked.

"Yup." Twilight stepped forward, putting her muzzle close to his. "I'll admit, you're going to be the first pony I ever gave a chance to woo me. Don't screw it up." She pecked him on the cheek.

"I'll do my best, your highness." He chuckled as Twilight trotted off, watching her tail the entire way.

The Ponyville team boarded the train and settled in for the ride home. Everypony was exhausted in their own ways, except for the never-ending energy well that was Pinkie Pie. Rarity playfully batted at Twilight's leg.

"I saw that, darling."

"Just saying goodbye for now." Twilight happily sighed.

Yes, everything was going to be just fine...

Author's Note

Buck it, I'm rewriting the CMC's arc. Prepare for the three to become more important than previously anticipated.

I originally planned to kill off Scootaloo near the end of the story, but now I'm thinking of something different.

Chapter 13: Responsibility

You wanted to see me, captain?

Take a seat. There's some concerns I have about this new 'Queen's Guard'. I would like you to apply to join them and report back to me on their activities.

Are you sure that's a good idea?

For the safety of Princess Celestia, I would do anything. This isn't an option, corporal. Either you do this and earn your pardon, or...

Buck...

Somnia tapped at the floor in front of her, stalling, dreading more like it. She knew since she had woken up an hour ago. Now, she needed to make a choice of her own.

"Well?" Luna raised a brow questioningly. "What will it be?"

"Why do I have to choose? Can't I let him?" She asked in return.

"Because you're the queen, and it's your choice what happens with the royal family."

"Somnia, it's alright." Celestia placed a comforting hoof on her shoulder. "I'm sure he'll support whatever you decide."

The filly wracked her mind over the choices in front of her. On one hoof, it would be good to have him closer. On the other, did he really want to?

"For crying out loud, just decide something!" Dusty yelled out. "We're on a tight schedule!"

"He'll move to Ponyville." Somnia nodded firmly. She didn't actually know if Duskwing wanted to move, but it was necessary if he and her mom were to be getting back together. "After the Equestria Games though. I want to see him compete for Hollow Shades." Besides, it would give her mother time to get to know her former husband and future fiance.

"Great, let's go." Dusty opened the door to the room. "Shield is already waiting for us with the recruits."

Somnia trudged along, still disappointed with the decision. There were no good options, just least bad.

"Be back for the debriefing later." Celestia called out to her from the doorway. "I want you there so you can explain what happened."

"Yeah, yeah." Somnia dismissively waved to her. The two of them made their way to the training grounds behind the barracks where Shield was waiting for them patiently. Two soldiers stood at attention, one solar guard and one royal guard.

"Princess Somnia, I've reviewed the troops and found these two adequate for your assessment." Shield stood aside as Somnia walked up to the solar guard, eyeing her over.

"Why do you want to be a part of the Queen's Guard?" Somnia asked sternly.

"It's my duty to--"

"Meh." She walked over to the other mare. "And you?"

"I want to make a difference, your majesty."

The filly circled the guardsmare, lifting the plate on her flank to get a look at her cutie mark. No six stars, but should that really matter? The prevalence of the six stars was a common trend with her guards, one she couldn't ignore for some reason. Having those specific ponies in her guard felt natural. Stopping in front of the mare, she stared into her eyes.

"What would you do in the case of an assassination attempt while on duty? How would you go about dealing with them?"

"I would guard you with my life and give no quarter." She stated proudly.

"I already got somepony for that." Somnia walked back over to Shield, turning to the two recruits. "I'm sorry to say that both of you are rejected."

"Somnia?" Shield turned his head down to her. "Are you sure? They are some of the best I've been recommended."

The filly pointed to the solar guard. "She's a spy sent by Captain Stampede. Guaranteed a pardon for her misconduct." The solar guard swore under her breath while Somnia pointed at the other mare. "She's a changeling spy."

Shield narrowed his eyes at the royal guard mare who looked at the filly confused. Igniting his horn, he couldn't even scan her before she bolted towards Somnia, ultimately being halted by a spear through the leg. The mare collapsed in agony, clutching her broken and bleeding leg, screaming: "Bucking whorse!"

"Got one!" Dusty walked over to the changeling and pulled the spear out from the ground while Shield broke the disguise and slapped a magic suppression ring on their horn. "Well I'll be damned. Hey, Somnia, how did you know?"

"I had a dream about both of them the past couple of days." The filly walked up to the solar guard. "Tell the captain that if he wants to deceive me, he needs to try harder. At least Dusty tries to act convincing."

"Huh?" The guardsmare in question turned to her surprised. "W-What do you mean?"

The captain chuckled while he dragged the changeling off to the medical station, leaving the filly to break the bad news.

"Come on~" Somnia got close to Dusty's face, smiling as smugly as possible. "I can dream of the past, present, and future. I saw that you would be recruited by Luna. I know about the pension."

Dusty swallowed while the solar guard shook her head and walked away from them, Somnia continuing once they were gone. "I told you when we first met that I need somepony that I know the motivations of. You're being bribed, Dawny is being threatened, and Shield is openly spying on me for Celestia. If I don't know your motivations, I can't trust you with my life. I can trust all of you because we all know each other's motivations. We know why each of us are doing what we are."

"I-I don't understand. That doesn't make a whole lot of sense. If you know I'm compromised to the regal sisters, why keep me?"

"Because you aren't." Somnia circled her. "You never were. Your sense of duty is too strong for that. I know that eventually you'll side with me."

Dusty didn't know what to think of that. It was the dumbest assumption she had ever heard. Literally none of them had any stake in keeping her alive besides their sense of duty, which was built on situations that could easily be leveraged by the regal sisters. And who the hay was she to assume her sense of duty?

"You're thinking that I'm overstepping myself." Somnia halted in front of her. "That I'm taking a risk that probably won't pay off."

"And how would you know that? Can you read minds too?" The guardsmare eyed the filly.

"No. But Grar certainly knows more than he is telling me." She answered proudly.

Can't keep a secret from you, can I?

"You can try."

"Whatever." Dusty shook her head. "What are you going to do about my spying?"

"Nothing." The filly leaned against her chest-plate. "I'm going to do nothing. You're going to keep being among my elite guards, you're probably going to keep feeding information to Luna, and eventually, you'll stop on your own will. Do you want to know why?"

"Why?" She took the bait. "Why would I?"

Somnia cleared her throat. "Give her time, I guarantee that you will see more of who she really is." Somnia grinned, knowing she had her. "Because she believes she can control me, that I won't be a threat to her or you. And you know what? She's right."

"Buck you!" The guardsmare scowled at her. "That was supposed to be--"

"Private? Nothing is private to me. Nothing!" Somnia got into Dusty's face, forcing the mare to take a step back. "I have to remain vigilant against threats even if I have guards of my own. You were a potential threat, one that I accidentally picked up on. Ever heard of the phrase 'keep your friends close and your enemies closer'? You want a count's pension? An honorable discharge from the guard after doing your duty? Well too bad! It's over, Dusty! You will either serve me and only me until I release you from service, or you will leave early on your own accord!"

"That's it!" Dusty stormed off. "I quit! Find somepony else to be your puppet!"

"Nothing's going to change!" Somnia yelled back. "Celestia and Luna will both order you to return to me!"

The filly smiled to herself as the mare entered back into the barracks. Thanks for the advice, Grar, but do you think it will really work?

According to your dreams, it should. She'll be desperate, and then you'll be there to catch her. To inspire her like the others. She needs to have her delusions of an easy life broken, better now than when she 'retires' only to realize her life's fulfillment was entirely dependent on serving other ponies.

We'll see. It is a pretty big risk.

A calculated risk.

"Transfer request denied." Celestia flipped the page of the report without taking her eyes from its lines of text.

"Your majesty, I've been made! She knows about all of us!" Dusty stared in disbelief.

"So I discovered." Celestia looked up unamused from the throne where she sat. "Do you think I'm so dense that I haven't been watching her? Haven't been watching you? I need somepony trustworthy near to her in case of unforeseen complications. You'll do your duty, and when your term is done, you'll be able to retire with your pension."

"She'll make my life Tartarus if I stay! I'll talk to Princess Luna then! She's the one I made the deal with!"

Celestia sighed, returning her eyes to the report. "She'll tell you the same thing, but if you want to hear it from her directly, then go ahead. I won't stop you."

Dusty saluted one last time before trotting from the throne room. She'd have to speak with Princess Luna that evening, but what was she to do in the meantime? Her duty was to protect a single pony, a pony she doesn't really want to go back to. Disciplinary measures probably weren't Somnia's style, so abandoning her post for the day likely wouldn't bring any retribution. She could see about contacting Captain Shining Armor, maybe he could do something...

"Therefore, you will be treated for your wounds before being conditionally released under guard supervision. You will serve four moons of community service within Canterlot once physically able to." Somnia finished reading the scroll, flicking her eyes up to the changeling tied down to the medical bed. "Any questions?"

"Buck you!" He spat at her, landing it on her face. She wiped it off with a tissue provided by the captain before nodding affirmatively.

"Better than being sentenced to death or imprisonment. At least this way you can return to the hives in a timely manner." She gently smiled at them. "Actions have consequences. This is yours. Make the most of it."

The filly and her guard left the infirmary to leave the doctors to take the changeling in for surgery, heading for the throne room where Celestia was waiting for them. Entering into the throne room, there were stacks of paper piled next to the princess, Raven sitting to the side sorting the ones passed to her into a different set of piles.

"You're making quite a mess of things." Celestia spoke up as Somnia climbed the stairs to the throne. "I can't guarantee that Sergeant Fleeting Dust will be loyal to protecting you after what you pulled."

"Nah, she'll be fine." Somnia sat down next to Celestia. "What's all of this?"

"The backlog of paperwork Prince Blueblood doesn't do. I don't give him much, but what little he does get piles up. All of these aren't time sensitive, usually only 'Letters from the Princess' for notable achievements." She signed another paper before floating it over to Raven. "Can you begin with that pile? I need you to sort it by type."

"Yup!" Somnia climbed up onto the leg-rest of the throne, grabbing the top of the pile to take back down with her. The majority of the letters were for marriages lasting until a milestone. Occasionally there would be a letter of achievement, often directed at younger ponies who just got their cutie mark, a few apology letters or letters of condolences also included.

The filly made sure to read some of them through to understand the format. Much of the letters were standardized to the point that the process could be automated with magi-tech but every so often it would be personalized, giving enough variation to seem genuine.

They spent the following three hours sorting through the letters, getting through all of the piles. A couple of servants entered with carts to carry the papers from the throne room while Celestia and Somnia made their way to the outside Gala Garden. Somnia could see that there were nobles and reporters alike talking among themselves as Celestia made last adjustments for the speaker.

Celestia bumped the microphone to get the crowd's attention. "Good afternoon, everypony."

The crowd slowly turned away from their conversations to face the princesses. "I'm glad you could all make it. I hope you are alright with the informal nature of the event, we didn't feel it would be necessary to call a formal press conference to answer any questions about what happened. I would like to begin by clarifying the rumors about Princess Twilight's views on thestrals."

"Well I for one am glad she stood up to those brutes." A noble mare commented. "They don't have a place in a civilized society such as Equestria."

"Hey!" Somnia grabbed the microphone from Celestia. "Thestrals are ponies too!"

"They are abominations! A corruption of the noble pegasus!" A pegasus noble rebutted. "It's a travesty what that monster Nightmare Moon did to them."

"That is a falsehood that has already been disproven." Celestia took the mic back, glaring at Somnia. "The thestrals are citizens of Equestria like any others, all the princesses firmly support their efforts to improve their communities like we do for any other communities in our great nation.

"But getting back to the topic at hoof: Princess Twilight. Her stance on the thestrals may have previously been negative, but after taking the time to learn about them, she has softened her view."

"Is she some batpony lover?" A stallion scoffed. "We saw the news about that pony she associated with in Rainbow Falls, going as far as to kiss them!"

The crowd murmured while Celestia thought of a response. "If it took a bit of affection for Princess Twilight to change her mind, then that is her choice. We shouldn't judge her for somepony she is interested in so long as they are of legal age and mental capability."

"It's a shame on the princesshood!" Another mare shouted out. "Letting that predator get close to her let alone actually being interested in them!"

Words of agreement were exchanged among the nobility. Somnia could see a batpony at the back of the crowd wincing. Taking the microphone, she spoke her mind.

"You're all being closed-minded! Batponies are ponies like the rest of us and deserve to be treated with respect. My dad wouldn't stand for this, and neither will I. If you aren't willing to serve the interests of ponies, no matter what kind they are, then you don't deserve to be considered nobles at all!"

Celestia quickly took the microphone back as the nobles began shouting at them. "The young princess is very passionate about the cause of thestral rights, please do excuse her unfortunate choice of words."

"Isn't she getting rutted by her guard?" A mare sneered. "She isn't worthy of being a princess, let alone royalty!"

The crowd once again agreed, even some of the reporters going along with it. "Please everypony, calm down. The princesses have discussed this extensively and--"

"Auntie!" Blueblood stepped forward. "She's a smear on our good name! Why do you let her continue embarrassing us and Equestria?"

"Prince Blueblood, you may not have been privy to those discussions, but I have explained this to you before. Alicorns are royalty, no matter how much of an embarrassment they may be."

"Hey!" Somnia poked Celestia's leg. "I'm not that bad."

She briefly covered the mic to whisper to the filly: "Somnia, please, let me handle this."

"What about the other thing, princess? That Princess Twilight..." A different noble stallion called out, shuddering at the thought. "Actually had a foal with one of those bloodsucking monsters."

"I resemble that remark!" Somnia pouted, but Celestia ignored her.

"It is true, Princess Twilight did conceive Princess Somnia with a thestral." She let it sink in for the crowd, them not being too happy with the answer. "The thestral in question has been identified and will be introduced to Equestria if and only if they are willing to pursue a continued relationship with Princess Twilight."

"Given Princess Twilight's disposition towards them, it wouldn't surprise me if that filly was the result of a non-consensual altercation!" A noble mare pointed to Somnia. "Another reason why she shouldn't be a princess! No bastards can be allowed for the purity of the lineage!"

"SILENCE!" Celestia used her royal Canterlot voice. "I will not entertain the suggestion my student was forced upon! Princess Somnia's parents conceived her consensually, and they both see her as a legitimate daughter! If I hear another pony suggest such a thing, I will have you thrown into the dungeons for slander against the monarchy!" The regal sister had accidentally crushed the microphone in her magic grip, and the crowd had gone dead silent.

"But Auntie--"

"No Blueblood, you are ten times as disgraceful as Somnia is! Don't even think you have the high-ground with your eighteen bastard foals running around Equestria!"

The crowd turned in shock to the even more shocked prince. "T-That was--"

"Supposed to be a secret? Well you can take some responsibility for once in your life, nephew!" She took a moment to breath, returning back to her regal posture and tone. "Does anypony else have a question or concern that we may address?"

Celestia watched on unamused as her sister rolled on the floor laughing her tail off. She had time to review what happened at the debrief and already she'd received a dozen telegrams from mares claiming their foal was Blueblood's. The Noble's Council was less than pleased, but it gave her the opportunity to present the amendment for the Treaty of Unicornia before them.

"I-I wish I could have seen that." Luna finally managed to calm herself, getting up from the floor and wiping the tears from her eyes. "That must have felt awesome to put him in his place!"

"It did." Somnia giggled.

"Yes, well." Celestia coughed. "What's done is done. All we can do is move forward. The Noble's Council has agreed to entertain the amendment."

"Hehe..." Luna finally settled enough to ask the question she had. "Did you really need to threaten them with imprisonment, my sister? Seems a little much."

"It was in the heat of the moment!" Celestia defended.

"You were radiating quite a lot. I was sweating from it all." Somnia prodded her, Luna's half-smile immediately falling to a frown.

"Y-You were serious, weren't you?"

"It's no laughing matter! The veil above when it gets back to Twilight!" Celestia threw her hooves over her eyes.

"At least nopony got hurt or arrested." Somnia cheerfully added.

"Blueblood is going to when his royal status is revoked and he has to take care of his eighteen foals." Luna snickered.

"Yes, yes, laugh at his expense." Celestia dismissively waved. "But there are still other matters that we must discuss before I turn in for the night."

"Of course, sister."

"Has Sergeant Fleeting Dust spoken to you yet?"

"Negative. I haven't had the opportunity to speak with anypony except for you two."

Celestia sighed. "Somnia here decided to tell her about our little arrangement. She will be requesting a transfer to another division of the royal guard from you."

Luna froze in place, staring at the filly. "You knew?!"

"Yeah, I knew before you even spoke to her." She indifferently shrugged.

The Princess of the Night considered her next move. Any spy they tried planting clearly wouldn't work, but if Somnia already knew they were a spy...

"I'll speak to her. Maybe I can convince her to stay with the Queen's Guard, if you still want her."

"I don't really care." Somnia picked up a small figurine from Luna's bedside table. "Is this what Star Swirl looks like?"

"Yes. I had that custom-made in his memory." She walked over to the filly who examined the figurine.

"Lulu, there is also the matter of your upcoming royal visit to Hollow Shades." Celestia spoke again from behind them. "With the increased profile on the royal family, I believe it would be best to take additional guards with you."

"Is it really necessary? I'm adored by my bats, they would stand for me if I were threatened." Luna declared proudly, turning to face her sister.

"Hey! I got an idea!" Somnia popped up between them. "Why don't you take me and my mom with you? We got guards with us!"

"Not a bad idea..." Luna mulled it over. "However it would be quite the risk, considering the reputation Twilight has among them."

"With the two of us, I'm sure everything will be fine." Somnia playfully pawed at her.

"I don't have any objections." Celestia added.

"Then I will write the letter to Twilight that we will be by tomorrow afternoon to pick her up." Luna went back to her desk. "I'll be down in the throne room in a couple of minutes, let me just get this out of the way."

Somnia said her goodbyes to Celestia before trotting off with her trusty Dawny in the direction of--

"Where are we going?" Dawn asked confused at the unusual course they were taking. Somnia opened the door to a meeting room that was empty, closing the door behind Dawn.

She swallowed, looking him over. "We need to talk."

"Please tell me you're not--"

"What? No, the test is after the royal visit." She shook her head. "It's about us. You and me."

"Okay?"

"I'm sorry about bucking you. I'm sorry for everything that happened." She hung her head. "I really am."

"Haven't you already apologized?" He raised a hoof questioningly. "What's changed?"

"Mom and dad..." She bit her lip. "And my cousin."

"Oh, you're breaking up with me?" He chuckled. "I didn't even realize we were together."

"Wait, you're not mad?" She turned up hopeful.

"I still don't know why you think we were." He rubbed her mane. "Yeah, we had a good time that night, and yeah, it had consequences for me and maybe you too. But we both chose to do it. I'll be honest, you had me at the Summer Sun Celebration when you kissed me. It was a lustful urge, that's all it was for me. What was it for you?"

"I, um..." She rubbed a front leg with a hoof, blushing from embarrassment. "I kinda fell for you."

"Only natural. After-all," he kissed her on the forehead, "I was better than Spike."

She giggled, giving him a heartfelt hug. "Thanks for understanding."

"Thanks for keeping me around." He rubbed her head. "Was there anything else, or...?"

"Actually, I wouldn't mind another go." She coyly smiled up to him. "If you're alright with that."

"All you had to do was ask." He chuckled, undoing a particular strap on his armor as she positioned herself on the table.

Shaking her plot at him: "Not inside this time. I don't want you to get in even more trouble. Not that I would mind having a foal..."

The two headed back over to the throne room, their minds clear and bodies satisfied. There will be one very confused and disgusted cleaner to discover the small mess they made, but it was totally worth it.

Entering into the throne room, Dusty turned her head towards the door, tears running down her face. Her sadness turned to despair as she spotted the two of them trotting towards her. Atop the throne, Luna was looking at some papers Celestia had left for her to review, not really caring all that much about crushing the guardmare's hopes.

"Hey, Dusty!" Somnia hugged her, Dawn going around the other side to put a wing over her.

"What do you want? Haven't you done enough?" She asked weakly.

"Do you wanna go out for a late-night snack?" The filly asked, her tail wagging back and forth. "I could do with some fried chicken."

"Sounds good to me." Dawn answered. "What do you think?"

"Y-Yeah, sure." Dusty turned with the other two with her head held low, her mind too caught up in desire to escape from her own personal nightmare scenario. The three left Luna to perform her nightly duties but not before calling out to them:

"I thought you were staying for night court!"

The three trotted from the castle to the fast food place down the street from the castle, choosing to sit in. Dusty was devastated. The day had been too much, and now here she was with the one pony she resented more than any other. Eating hayfries...

"You look like you watched a friend step on an arcane trap." Dawn commented before plunging his teeth into his chicken leg.

"I'm..." She shook her head. "I don't understand. Why me? Why do you care so much about keeping me around?"

"'Cause you're our friend." Dawn chewed the bite before continuing. "Friends don't let friends suffer alone. I get it, you wanted nothing more than to do your duty and get out. Maybe go fishing or tend to a garden, but life had other plans. You've heard what Shield said about his non-existent personal life, how much he appreciates having us around. You know what situation I'm in now that news has gone national about my... exploits. We're all lost souls. The best we can do is stick together."

"We don't always get to choose." Somnia nodded thoughtfully to her own chicken leg. "Sometimes things are forced on us we don't like, but we have to live with them. You do have a choice here. It's not a very good one, but it at least exists."

"I hate you." The mare muttered, a few more tears falling from her face. "I hate having you constantly trying to mess with me, dragging me to Celestia knows where, acting on whims without regard for anypony else. What makes you so special anyway? Why you?" She looked up. "Why do you do what you do? What reason do you have to do all these things? Why can't you just be normal?"

"I could tell you..." Somnia regarded her chicken leg, knowingly smiling back up to Dusty. "But I think a demonstration would be more effective. Tomorrow we are going to Hollow Shades for my first royal visit. I have a speech planned that I would like you to listen to. Not as a guard, as a pony. If you believe that I'm not worth following after that speech, I'll sign your discharge form without question."

"What about me? Why can't I have a discharge form?" Dawn playfully glared at the filly.

"I like having a hunk around." She batted at his chest-plate. "Improves the view."

You got me though.

"But I can't see you!"

"And you're probably a hideous abomination anyway." Dawn jeered.

The three continued to sit bantering back and forth, or at least Somnia, Grar, and Dawn did while Dusty silently ate her salad and hayfries. It had all fallen apart. Her pension would come after she's discharged, not a moment sooner, and only if the princesses were satisfied. It would be better at this point to quit the Queen's Guard, either after the speech or by going AWOL. She was trapped in a cage she willingly entered, and the only way out was to chew off her leg or hoping for mercy. Now the key dangled in front of her, but she would still be losing her tail no matter what happened.

"Remember, everypony has a choice." Somnia put her hoof on the mare's, smiling reassuringly at Dusty's defeated expression. "And we'll respect whatever you choose."

Didn't help the feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach, but it did make her feel grateful that somepony cared, even if it was for selfish reasons.

Chapter 14: My Sun and Moon

Give her a chance, at least this one time. She really does care about you.

Leave me alone...

Do you know why I'm still around?

I don't care why, I just want you gone.

She doesn't give up. It's why she still wants you around, because despite your own doubts, she sees potential in you. She sees it in all of us. Except maybe Dawn.

...

Think about it, won't you? I bet the speech will change your mind.

Pacing back and forth in front of the library, the chatter behind her from the dragon and filly blurred against the background noise of Ponyville. She barely had time to prepare her luggage and alert her friends in the morning before Somnia had returned from Canterlot. Unfortunately, she would miss Rainbow Dash's birthaversery, but she should be back in town for the Ponyville Days celebration.

Trotting past Dusty for the eightieth time, Twilight could still see the tension the guardsmare was putting off. She had hardly spoken to anypony since they arrived back from Canterlot, and her responses were very short and to the point.

"Dusty?" Twilight stopped in front of her. "Is everything alright?"

"Yes, ma'am." She answered stoically, not taking her eyes from the distance.

Sighing, Twilight trotted over to Shield who was just reading their book while they waited. "Captain, did something happen in Canterlot? Dusty isn't very..."

"Responsive? Happy? Yeah, something happened, but I'm not going to tell you what." He returned to his book.

"Even if I order you?" She smiled to him.

"Even if you order me." He smiled back, reversing her own.

She resumed her pacing while waiting for the chariot to arrive. A few minutes later, two chariots appeared in the distance, one landing in front of the library while the other circled above. The Queen's Guard secured her travel case on the side compartment of the extra-large chariot while she boarded with Somnia. A sleepy Princess Luna only gave a lazy wave to them as they secured themselves in for the ride.

With one last goodbye to Spike, the thestrals pulling them set off into the skies to meet up with the other chariot. The ride over was fairly quiet, and what little remarks between Shield and Dawn had to be yelled over the wind. About an hour later, Princess Luna woke up properly as they were approaching their destination, taking the downtime to fully wake up.

The two chariots landed near to the center of the town next to a well that had several large crates stacked next to it. Twilight couldn't believe what she was seeing. Stone buildings centuries old were barely holding together, holes in the occasional one sometimes covered by wood but more often than not left to provide a permanent draft for whoever lived there. The larger structures had their roofs collapsed, crushing the top floors. There was barely any color, barely any cheer.

Stepping down from the chariot, her eyes focused on an outline of a pony burned into the side of a building. A grim reminder that something terrible had happened to this town, and that whoever the shadow belonged to was long gone. Princess Luna stepped down on the other side and made her way over to one of the larger buildings still standing. Following into the building, Twilight expected some sort of town hall, not what she ended up seeing.

A single wooden desk with splinters sticking out of it was at the center of the room, a single brass bell atop it. Stairs ran upstairs to the side of the desk and two other doorways led elsewhere into the first floor. Luna rang the bell a few times, signalling the motions of whoever was in the back room. A tired thestral mare trudged out to the counter, her eyes lighting up as she gazed upon Princess Luna.

"Your gracefulness!" She bowed. "What can this humble servant do for you?"

"We require..." She looked back at the guards briefly. "Three rooms, if you have enough."

"O-Of course." She reached back to take a crudely put-together leather binder out from a broken section of the wall, briefly flicking through it. "We have three rooms available. Two of which have three beds each, the last is on the third floor, but it has a hole in the roof..."

"Guards." Luna turned over to her thestrals. "Please go see the hunt organizer for temporary lodgings." They walked away while Luna returned to smiling at their host. "The other two rooms will be sufficient."

"R-Right this way." She led them up the stairs, motioning to the two rooms that were on either side of the hallway. Entering into the room, Twilight's heart sank even further. The 'royal suite' had three rusted bed frames with spring mattresses on top, two pillows total. The water damage was obvious from the stains that ran down the walls, mold lining the edges of the room and window. Two mice looked on curiously just within sight, having been caught in the middle of a transaction of some sort.

Using a hoof to tear down the cobweb that was hanging from the center of the room, Twilight took another look around in disbelief. "This is..." Disgusting? Horrible? How can anypony live in a place like this?

"Hollow Shades." Luna sighed, opening her own travel case to remove two sleeping bags. She began unrolling one of them onto one of the beds while Twilight went to the foggy window, wiping it with no success. The ragged curtains had so many holes that they were rendered useless.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Twilight turned to face Princess Luna who was in the middle of getting into her sleeping bag, taking a pillow for herself. "Why didn't you tell Celestia it was this bad?!"

"I did!" Luna snapped back, immediately cringing in regret. She gave a deep sigh, settling into her bed for a nap. "I did..."

Twilight got out her own sleeping bag that she had packed according to Luna's instructions while Somnia unrolled the extra from Luna. She didn't get any sleep over the next couple of hours, her mind too wracked with the implications of how it got this bad. Does Celestia really not care about them? Isn't she supposed to be a benevolent monarch? Aren't these her little ponies too?

When Luna's horn started glowing, Twilight knew sunset had come along. Getting up from her bed, she spotted mice feces having been swept into the corner, adding the the discomfort she was feeling. The three of them exited the 'hotel', a few thestrals were finally out walking around the streets going about their early evening business. The chariot had been moved elsewhere, likely wherever the Lunar Guard's were staying, the large crate the second had brought being left near to the well with the others.

While Luna went to the well in order to give the residents a show of raising the moon, Twilight and Somnia sat on one of the few stone benches that was still intact against the hotel.

"Somnia--"

"I know." The filly laid her head against her mother, frowning at the state of the town square. "I know..."

Luna lifted herself into the air, receiving stares of awe from her subjects as the moon raised above the horizon to take the place of the sun in the sky, plummeting the valley into darkness. Casting a night vision spell, Twilight could see a few more thestrals exiting their homes now that it was dark out.

"Do you need a night vision spell?" Twilight asked the filly.

"If you wouldn't mind. I can see pretty well, but it's still dark."

Luna walked back over to them while Twilight cast the spell. "We should be seeing the hunt organizer."

Leading them towards the edge of town, Twilight spotted an anxious Duskwing pacing back and forth atop something in front of a small crowd that was slowly trickling in.

"Duskwing?" Twilight trotted up to the crowd, getting few nasty looks from the thestrals.

"Princess Twilight!" He hopped down from the log he was using as a platform and pushed his way through the crowd. Once through, he spotted Princess Luna. "Your Serene Beauty." He gave a humble bow.

"Enough of that." Luna chuckled, stepping up the crowd that quickly bowed to her. "My loyal subjects! Tonight we shall have a great feast brought courtesy of myself! For tonight is a celebration for all of you!" The ponies screeched in delight, all of which excitedly trotting off, but not before personally bowing to the princess. Among them, Twilight could see fairly young fillies and colts mixed it with the elderly or disabled.

This isn't Equestria. This can't be Equestria.

Duskwing and a colt she recognized as Nightwind approached her. "I wasn't expecting you to visit so soon."

"It was kind-of last minute." Twilight admitted. She had only gotten the letter when she returned to Ponyville late at night with Cadance. Didn't even see it until the morning just before Somnia arrived back from Canterlot.

"Princess Twilight, I would like you to meet Nightwind. Nightwind, this is your Aunt Twilight." Duskwing motioned between them.

"Aunt?" The colt looked up to him confused.

"You haven't told him, have you?" Twilight slyly smiled at Duskwing, getting a nervous shake of the head.

"Remember me?" Somnia trotted up to the colt, getting uncomfortably close to Nightwind's face. "I'm that guard-filly from Canterlot!"

"Nightwind, this is your cousin Somnia. Why don't you two run off and help get everything ready for the festival?" The two foals walked off with Somnia chatting about something to the very confused colt while Twilight approached her former husband.

"Duskwing, why were there fillies and colts in the hunting party?" She asked concerned.

"We gotta accept help from anypony willing to offer it." He shrugged. "Gotta do what we gotta do so we don't go hungry."

Following him back towards town, Twilight didn't want to see it anymore. Despite the decently high spirits of the batponies in the presence of Princess Luna, the town was miserable and it showed. While they certainly perked up at the sight of Luna, she could see their mood fall back down the moment they weren't paying attention to her. She hardly spotted anypony smiling just for the sake of it.

"You like books?" He asked over his shoulder, to which Twilight nodded. Leading her along a branching path from the town square, he pushed aside a wooden plank that served as the door for the town library. "Ta da!"

Entering, it was quite possibly the worst library she had ever seen. She could count nearly a hundred and fifty books total, some of which were only reams of paper without proper covers. Worst of all, she didn't even need to check the insides to know that a lot probably had their pages damaged or missing, small bits of hastily stuck in paper poking from most of the books.

"I know it ain't much, but it suffices for teaching basic concepts." Duskwing blew dust from one of the tables, pulling out a chair for Twilight. The two sat at the table in silence for a minute while they both tried to think of something to say.

"Duskwing... I-I'm so sorry." Twilight apologized, eyes tearing up. "I didn't know it was this bad. I promise, I really didn't."

"Sorry for what? A thousand years of neglect?" He leaned back in the chair, accidentally breaking the back and falling backwards. He got back up, wiping himself off. "Damn..."

"A thousand years..." Twilight turned up at the tattered banners around the library. They all signified either Princess Luna, the Moon, or even Nightmare Moon. The poster on the far side was propaganda from the would-be Lunar Empire, encouraging recruitment for the military to 'Save Our Serene Night'.

"Nothing new under the sun." He chuckled. "Literally, in our case."

She didn't want to believe it, her face scrunching up as she held back the disgust in her stomach. This isn't like Celestia. It simply isn't!

"I know Princess Celestia was your mentor or something." He sat back down on the newly made stool. "But she's not as perfect as the papers say."

"And you've been living in this your whole life." She absently stared into his eyes.

This can't stand. It can't!

"I'm still not understanding." Nightwind stopped in his tracks. "If Princess Twilight is my aunt, and my uncle is your dad, are they married?"

"No, you aren't getting it." Somnia sighed, getting next to him to put a hoof around his withers. "They're half-siblings. I'm their daughter."

"But wouldn't you have only three hooves? Or one wing bigger than the other?" He joked, getting a smile out of her.

"If I was a normal pony, maybe. But the royal family is different." She bit her lip. "Imagine if you arranged the family tree of the royal family for thousands of years, only letting those within the tree to marry each-other. Enough foals and you would find two candidates for the next generation. Then they would have foals who would go through the same process down the line until the defects were removed, and eventually there would be enough clean pairs for cousins. That's our family tree."

"Wait, cousins got married?"

"Come on~" She half-lidded her eyes. "Wouldn't it be nice to know the pony you're set to marry before you even start to think about marriage and stuff?"

"I don't know..." He hummed.

"That's why I wanted to talk to you. My mom and dad will be getting back together, meaning we'll be spending a lot of time together." She grinned, rubbing his chest. "Ever feel funny around fillies? Your little friend poking out of your sheath at inconvenient times?"

"H-Hey!" He backed up a bit from her. "I barely know you!"

"Now. You barely know me now." She stepped forward. "Trust me. You and I can help each other with our urges..."

"B-But uncle said--"

"If you're getting hard, and you're getting those feelings on your own, you're fine." She kissed him on the cheek. "Wanna give it a try?"

"N-Not tonight. L-Let me get to know you a bit first. Uncle probably wouldn't like me not knowing my special somepony." He stuttered out nervously, heart beating wildly.

"Fine. When you're ready, I'll be waiting." She turned, lifting her tail to the side to give him a quick view before trotting off back to the town square.

Just like the first time. She giggled.

Careful, or you'll be married sooner than you know.

What's so bad about being married? More foals, less stuff I will personally have to do.

Your mother probably wouldn't be happy with raising her grandfoals.

I'll raise them then! She spotted Luna taste-testing the local cuisine while her mom and dad were helping with setting up the stage for the speeches. Deciding a quick snack wouldn't hurt, she trotted towards Luna.

"It's wonderful!" Luna praised the baker who graciously bowed for the complement. "Very succulent."

"I made sure it was cooked to perfection, your gracefulness."

"Linu!" Somnia called out freezing Luna in place. "How is the tasting coming along?"

She grabbed the filly in her magic and brought her into her forelegs. "Don't ever call me that again." Her expression told the filly it was a sore topic.

"O-Okay?" Somnia fearfully answered, nodding in panic.

Luna sighed before returning to a smile. "The tasting is going fine. Want to help me?"

The filly nodded eagerly.

"No, the stage won't be supported enough in the center if we do that." Twilight rubbed between her eyes.

"We don't exactly have the luxury of carved wood, y'know?"

"What if we gather enough twigs and leaves to provide a cushion under it?"

Duskwing looked it over. "Might work, but we'd need to gather those and it would take forever." Twilight pointed to her horn, getting a blush from him. "Oh, right."

The two did some more measurements for the dimensions of the stage before going back to the woods to gather the large ball of forest material.

"Y'know, we could really benefit from somepony like you around here." He chuckled as they walked through the forest path, gathering small piles here and there. Compared to the large ball in Twilight's magical grasp, his contribution was pocket change.

"I'm sure a unicorn will move in after we start the social reforms." She grabbed another bundle of fallen leaves. "It'll take some time."

"Hey, where I'm going it's probably not going to be a problem." He picked up a few twigs to put into his saddlebags. "Did the princess tell you what she told me?"

"No. What did she want?" Twilight asked curiously. Luna had briefly pulled him aside before going off to do the taste testing. She just assumed it was the instruction to assemble the stage.

He sighed. "I'm moving to Ponyville. Their orders."

"What?!" She dropped the collected pile onto the ground, turning to him. "But why? Why would she order you to--"

"It's fine." He cut her off. "She thought it would be an excellent opportunity to stay close to Somnia, and so that other ponies could see batponies living in their community. It seems to be the latter, more than the former."

"But do you want to move? I can veto it if you really want to stay here." She approached, eyes locked onto his own.

"You've seen the town. It's a mess, and my place isn't much better. I'm going to be getting a house without a constant draft, Nightwind is going to get a formal education, and Somnia is going to get her dad. Oh, and you'll get to stare at my flank more." He smirked, turning from the blushing princess.

"Stahp." She playfully pawed at him, smiling to herself while she picked up the leaves and twigs again with her magic.

"Thestrals of Hollow Shades!" Luna announced to the gathered crowd. Nearly every pony in the town was gathered at the town square, numbering over three thousand ponies and all in various states of excitement. In the front row were Duskwing, Nightwind, and Dusty all watching curiously, and to the side of the stage was one of the ponies Twilight had seen at the try-outs in Rainbow Falls. Something Moon, if she remembered the second half correctly.

"It is good to be back to see all of your happy faces. I've missed you these past few years since my return to Equestria, and it is an honor to return to your peaceful town." The crowd cheered for their lunar princess, screeching in place of shouting a lot of the time. Luna continued once the crowd settled down.

"I'm sure you are all wondering about the extra princesses along with me for our festival. A few days ago, the papers discussed an altercation which occurred between Princess Twilight and one of your own residents, the local hunt organizer Duskwing. My fellow princess said many things that you would disapprove of. She wishes to speak on how her perspective has changed since then."

Luna stepped back, letting Twilight have the stage. She could see all the way to the back buildings, a few batponies were even perched on top of the buildings so they could listen. Stepping forward, she cleared her throat to project it similar to Luna.

"When I first encountered Duskwing in Canterlot, I believed all the same things about batponies that you have all heard. Bloodsuckers, foal-nappers, pony-eaters..." A few murmurs came from the crowd. "But in the aftermath of my own daughter's confession that she was part thestral, I've taken the time to reconsider everything I thought I knew. I spent most of my last day in Rainbow Falls to get to know the Hollow Shades aerial relay team, and I couldn't deny that they were respectable ponies I could see myself being friends with in a different timeline."

Duskwing winked at her, getting a small blush. "I admit, it also helped that it turned out my former husband was a thestral. And in the short time we spent assisting with the festival tonight, I've gotten to know what it is like to live in Hollow Shades and the other batpony settlements around Equestria. I'm disgusted by how you've been treated."

Her face scrunched up at the memory of that burned shadow, at the foals helping with the hunting team instead of playing or learning. "I feel sick to my stomach knowing that you have been living like this for a thousand years, with nopony to give you a chance. I'll be honest with you, I'm still not completely over the stereotypes I've been taught about your kind. But I'm trying my best to change for the better. You deserve a chance at a good life like any other pony in Equestria. You deserve respect, and I hope to support any social reforms to reintegrate you into Equestrian society as ponies like any other."

"Bullshit!" A shout came from the side. Twilight saw Sadist Moon approach the stage, getting stopped by Dawn before she could get closer. "You're liars and snakes! What have any of you done for us? What have you done, Princess Luna?!"

A shocked gasp came from the crowd, but the whispers from them afterwards slowly turned from shock, to confusion, to anger. Sadist Moon continued. "You sit around in Canterlot with the stuck-up unicorn nobles, sucking your own hooves, while we have to live through a thousand years of your bitch of a sister's tyranny! Why haven't you done anything about the Solar Guard raids on our communities? Why haven't you stopped us getting slaughtered by wild animals? Or foalnapped by slavers? What the buck have you actually done for us since returning?!"

"Everypony! Listen! I've tried to convince--"

"We don't want to hear any more excuses!" Sadist Moon yelled back. "We want something done! And if you're not going to, then we will do it without you!"

"Everypony--"

"Yeah! You haven't helped us at all!" A shout came from the crowd, sending them into a frenzy of angry shouting towards the princesses.

"How do we know that foal isn't lying?" "Princess Twilight is a liar!" "Down with the diarchy!" "Death to Solarists! Death to the princessdom!" "A New Lunar Republic for the thestrals! By the thestrals!"

"SILENCE!" Luna yelled out at the top of her lungs, stilling the crowd briefly before they started back up with the yelling even louder than before, only enraged at her attempt to shout them down. Twilight could see the fear in the eyes of Duskwing, Nightwind, and Dusty below, her own heart beat loud enough to hear over the crowd. She didn't even feel the filly climbing up onto her back before the first pieces of dirt started to lift from the ground.

"Everypony! QUIET!" Somnia's voice echoed through the crowd silencing them instantly. Twilight could feel it. She could see it. The very air sparked with energy. Her breathing seemingly halted under the immense magical field, but she felt no fear. No, she felt unrestrained, indomitable pride and determination.

"The princesses of Equestria have let you down, that is indisputable! The only one to genuinely care about your suffering for the longest time was Princess Luna, and she has tried what she could within the system to help you! But we all know the system is broken! Nothing will change as long as we don't act to force it to change!

"You are all stronger than you believe. We are all masters of our destiny, no matter who says otherwise or what our cutie marks may suggest. You have been lied to and manipulated to remain complacent in the face of those who see you as nothing more than vermin or slaves! I will give to you the truth they would deny you: It is you who are in-charge of your path in life! Every last one of you!

"Long ago, the Queen of the Harmonic Empire made a promise to every pony. That no pony would go hungry, that every pony would be treated with respect and dignity, that we would all be equals before Excalion! It is by that promise that I speak to you now. I will not stop until you are free from tyranny! Until you truly understand your worth to all of Ponykind!

As Queen of the Harmonic Empire and the Grand Councilor of Harmony, I will renew the Queen's Promise before you today. I swear by the Ascended, I will not stop until every pony is treated equally! I will not stop until all kinds of ponies are united under a single truth! We are the masters of Equus! The Children of Harmony! And nothing will stop us from claiming ascension!

For life everlasting against forever! For life unburdened by necessity! For life free from tyranny! Ours is the will of the Ascended!

For Life and Reality,

WE WILL NEVER SURRENDER!

The specks of dirt lifted into the air around the stage dropped to the soil as the field dissipated, filly falling slowly back onto Twilight's back. The newly formed winds blew over the shocked, silent crowd, waving the grass at the front of the stage which had seemingly grown over the course of the speech. Twilight could see a flash off in the distance but didn't quite register it as the crowd broke into a cheer, stomping their hooves, shaking the very ground.

Several ponies began actively kneeling for the queen, followed by even more. Even Duskwing and Dusty bowed before her declaration, Sadist Moon following shortly after with tears running down her face. Twilight let go of a shaky breath as the filly jumped down from her. Her own face had tears, as though the deepest part of Somnia's soul was exposed to her, and it was incomprehensibly beautiful. When the entire crowd had bowed, they shouted in unison:

"LONG LIVE QUEEN SOMNIA TEMPORUS!"

"Thanks for the help, Grar." Somnia whispered to her faithful companion.

Please don't try to die while I'm resting. That was too much, even for me.

"I promise." She giggled, hugging her mother who kept staring off into the distance stunned.

That was just like in the hospital... Twilight blinked, readjusting her eyes to her daughter. "S-Somnia? What did you do?"

"What I needed to." She nuzzled Twilight's neck.

The crowd began to get back up and talk among themselves. The festival had truly started in earnest among the ponies as they laughed, cried, and danced. Twilight turned her head to the other side to see Luna, tears running down her face, but the expression wasn't shock or joy, it was fear. Unfiltered terror.

"Twilight!" Duskwing climbed up onto the stage, kissing her on the lips briefly. "You both were great! Especially you, kid!" He messed up Somnia's mane.

"Really? Do you think they liked it?" She giggled to the crowd of ponies starting to form near the front of the stage to talk to the young queen. The filly went off to talk to her fans while Duskwing helped Twilight down from the stage.

"Must have been quite the sensation, being at ground zero." He wrapped a wing around her. "Even in the front row it felt like I was going to faint. Damn, I don't even have the words to describe that!" Duskwing stopped once they had gotten to the stone bench, putting Twilight down on it. "You alright?"

"Y-Yeah." Twilight smiled widely. "I'm better than I've been in a while." She leaned forward and kissed him, both embracing one another.

Twilight eventually pulled away, looking into her husbands eyes, knowing that this just felt right. She was determined to give him a chance, not for Somnia's sake, but for her own. This was her choice, and only hers. Last time she felt this way, she had faced down Discord with her friends by her side. But there was no fear, no nervousness that it could end horribly, only the sweet bliss of unconditional love and certainty. This relationship, this stallion, she wanted nothing more than to hold onto forever. He was hers. And she was his.

Meanwhile, Shield and Dawn approached the still crying Dusty at the front of the stage. "Still want to leave?" Shield jabbed her in the side.

"Damn..." She whispered, wiping the tears way with her foreleg. "You weren't joking. She really is more powerful than Celestia."

"Never lied to you." He hoofed over a six starred badge, one he and Dawn also wore. "Ready to follow her now?"

She grabbed the badge, examining its design. It was Somnia's cutie mark imprinted and enchanted into a metallic plate. It was an artifact of incredible power, that was for certain based on how it made her feel even more determined, but it represented even more. It was a duty higher than any others. A badge of office. A purpose to fulfill. Destiny.

"To the deepest pits of Tartarus and back." She hugged her friends, looking over to the filly being swarmed by her adoring fans. "We should probably save her, shouldn't we?"

"Eh, wouldn't hurt for her to get used to it." Dawn laughed, leading them over to the banquet table.

"Lulu?" Celestia approached her downtrodden sister. "Is everything alright?"

"T-They..." She broke into sobs, sitting down on the dirt near the edge of the town. Celestia moved forward, wrapping a wing around her.

"It'll be okay. It's okay, Lulu."

"It's not! Look at them! They are hers now! They were my ponies! Mine! Now I have nopony..." She cried out, lightly sobbing.

"There are still plenty of ponies which respect you."

"But none would fight for me! None that would die for me!" She screamed back, tears trailing her face. "I'm nopony! You have a thousand years of trust, but what do I have?!"

"The respect of fillies and colts that you've stopped the nightmares of." Celestia wiped a hoof along her sister's face. "How many ponies have had restful nights since your return when they wouldn't have? You've stopped foals from being bullied, from being afraid. You've made a real impact in the world. It might not be flashy, but it's equally important."

Luna continued to sob into her sister's fur while she considered what had been said. "Do what you need to..." She whimpered out. "Just make sure she's ours by the end of it."

Twilight opened her eyes to the sunlight being defused through the foggy window. Her head ached, but her heart still felt like it did immediately after the speech. Getting up from her makeshift bed, she turned over to see her daughter sleeping surprisingly soundly. Luna was also suspiciously absent... Actually, where did Luna go? She didn't remember seeing Luna since the speech.

"Somnia?" Twilight rubbed her eyes, the filly slowly moaning from her bed.

"Noooo... I was sleeping..."

"Sorry, sweetie." Twilight got out of bed and stretched. The mattresses were very uncomfortable, and her back would probably be aching for a week. It would have been better to sleep on the floor if it wasn't for the filth. Princess Luna's sleeping bag was also absent, a note being left in its place on the bed.

To Twilight and Somnia,

I'm afraid I had to leave early for Canterlot as there was a situation in development. My guards will return you all to Ponyville.

- Luna

"Short and to the point." Twilight mused. Probably related to Somnia's speech, if it caused a comparable magical burst... Wait!

"Somnia! Get up!" Twilight floated her from her sleeping bag, rolling it back up along with her own. Carrying the barely conscious filly out into the hallways, she could see that some cleaning had been done since yesterday. She knocked on the door for the guards but nopony answered. Going downstairs, she saw them talking out front, each equipped in their signature light-blue armor but with an additional badge attached to the front.

The chariot was waiting for them with both of the Lunar Guards talking idly, seemingly not bothered by the late awakening of the princess.

"Princess, ready to go?" Shield asked, taking her luggage and loading it.

"Not yet. I'll be right back." She hoofed off Somnia then ran for a particular house. Knocking on the door, she could hear somepony fall out of bed from the massive hole on the second floor.

"Twilight?" Duskwing looked down on her squinting. "What time is it?"

"Time for me to go. I wanted to say goodbye before I left for Ponyville." She smiled up to him.

"You said goodbye last night, didn't you?" He raised a brow. "That's what the kiss was for, right?"

"I, uh..." She didn't remember kissing him. Actually, she remembered kissing him several times but not that particular instance. "Don't remember that."

"Well, how much do you remember?" He laid his head on his hoof as he smiled down at her.

"Um... I remember the tour?" She tried thinking of everything else but it merged into an incomprehensible yet happiness-filled blur. "We didn't..."

"No." He laughed. "We may have been a bit touchy-feely, but we didn't go any further than the kisses and touching. Not that I would have objected to going further."

She blushed at the memory of all the groping that came back like a tide. "A-Anyway, I had a lot of fun last night! Thanks for giving me a tour of the town!"

"Thanks for the dance!" He chuckled, waving her off. Twilight got onto the chariot and they set off for Ponyville. Her thoughts drifted back to last night, the speech specifically.

The Grand Council, the Ascended, For Life and Reality? She shook her head. Whatever Somnia had spoken about clearly had the desired effect. She had only ever seen ponies that happy at one of Pinkie's parties, but even then not all of them. But just how powerful was that release of energy?

Tapping her hoof on the paper, Twilight bit her lip in thought. Yup, too much...

"Princess?" Mayor Mare sat across from her, squirming anxiously. "Do you know what happened?"

"Yeah." Twilight separated the different pages of the newspaper, rearranging them into origami. "I was right beneath it."

"And?" She asked expectantly.

"Somnia!" Twilight yelled out for her daughter. Fighting up the stairs, the filly and her dragon knight came into view, both with minor bruises. "Want some origami?"

"Sure!" She called off the fight, setting down her sword before trotting over. Taking it into her hoof, she examined it for a moment before unfolding it and reading. "How much is a hundred-thousand swirls?"

"More than all of Equestria's ponies and artifacts combined."

"Wow." She looked back at the paper in wonder. "I did that?"

"YOU WHAT?!" The mayor jumped from her chair, getting more than a few laughs from the others present.

Author's Note

22/04/04: A slight change to accommodate later story progression. I didn't realize I forgot to go back to change this chapter before publishing.

Chapter 15: Scavengers

What do you want?

Is that really the way to treat a friend?

I'm not in the mood for your cryptic predictions, just tell me what you- Wait, why aren't you--

That is of little consequence. I must tell you that foreign powers have noticed the magical burst. Several armies are already being assembled to march on Equestria and its territories. They are scared.

Wouldn't you be?

I would if I didn't understand what it was, which is why we must reveal her to Equestria as the Grand Councillor. She's only going to garner more attention as she grows and it will become impossible to hide her.

It already is impossible!

"Pleeeeeaaassseee?" The filly gave her cutest blinks.

"We already have a pet!" Twilight answered again for the third time in the past two days.

"But Owllicious is your pet! I want one of my own!" She smiled. "If it makes feeding easier, I'll pick a bird."

"I don't feed Owllicious! He finds his own food in the woods!" Twilight sighed, knowing that Somnia wouldn't give it up. "We'll go to the fundraiser and see what's there, okay?"

"Thank you!" The filly hugged her.

"No promises though!"

"I know!" She trotted out of the door towards Celestia-knows-where while Twilight went back over to her writing desk to answer another letter. The ponies in Hollow Shades had gotten a hold of her address and were telling her about the changes they were making around the town. It was like a revolution swept the town, an entire restructuring of their society. Elections for a mayor were planned, ponies formed into teams on their own to carry out specific tasks, all with only the idea they were in charge of their destiny. It brought a smile to her face to hear their determination and drive. They also were reaching out to other thestral settlements, spreading word that it's up to them to rebuild their communities, that things weren't hopeless.

Dipping her black quill in its ink well, her gaze went to the window where the crow was hovering. Opening the window with her magic, she let it fly onto her desk, staring into her eyes with its own.

Twilight Sparkle. She nearly fell off her chair as she stared at the talking bird.

"Y-You can talk?!" Twilight gawked at the crow.

Of course I can. It answered indifferently, hopping over to the black feathered quill, examining it. Do you like my gift?

"Y-Yeah, its saved me a lot on quills." Twilight got back into her chair, scooting it closer. "Who are you?"

A friend. I've been watching you since your mother carried you within her. I suspected that events would align themselves for the reemergence of the Grand Councillor related to you. Once you had been sent into the psionic plane, I knew it was going to happen.

"You mean when I became an alicorn?" She asked curiously, her eyes widening. "You've really been watching me for my entire life?"

Where I could. You ponies are indoors more frequently than you used to be. Industrialization, and all of that.

"But who are you really? Why are you watching us?" She narrowed her eyes, trying to assess who this stalker really was. Were they after her and Somnia? An old foe? Or perhaps an old friend?

I shouldn't reveal my purpose at the moment. Trust me, Twilight Sparkle, a great change is coming. You and the Grand Councillor will need to be vigilant. Forces are at play that would seek ruin upon existence, if unintentionally.

"Right." She squinted, tired of being left in the dark so often. "So what are you doing here?"

To warn you of a great threat to your daughter's safety. She must not be left alone under any circumstances, for I fear there are agents at play nearby that would seek her harm.

"That's..."

Vague. Future-sight isn't precise when dealing with a Grand Councillor, I can only predict so much before it falls apart. All I know is to keep an eye on the skies, watch for suspicious souls.

"You can see the future? Don't only the best wizards of all time have those spells?"

If you are so curious, please speak with my companion. Grogar would probably be willing to spill our sensitive information, like always. Farewell for now, I must be returning elsewhere for urgent business. The crow took flight out the window, much to Twilight's annoyance.

So they do know Grogar... Just how old are they, and does Somnia know them? She shook her head and closed the window before getting back to responding to the letter.

Something for another time, but right now she needed to finish her letter and inform the guards.

Lifting another barrel from the cart and setting it down where it needed to be, Lovisa wiped the sweat from her brow and examined their work. Nopony would suspect anything until the dust settled, giving them plenty of time to get away safely.

"Heavytalon! Quit standing around! Close it up and let's get out of here!" Her fellow griffon annoyedly yelled at her.

"On it!" She closed up the wagon and went ahead of her fellow mercenary to check for any ponies in their path from the orchard. The trees had some sort of bats in them, unfortunate casualties when the distraction went off tomorrow. The two made their way back through the orchard towards the forest to the north-west where they had set up camp. Besides the occasional pegasus overhead, they had a relatively calm walk back to the forest camp.

While her colleague chopped up the cart they had been using for firewood, Lovisa went back over to the commander, a particularly angry unicorn with a broken horn and scar across their face, to receive her next order.

"Have the barrels been placed exactly where I requested?" She looked up to the griffoness.

"Ready and awaiting ignition." Lovisa replied, standing firmly under the intense gaze of the unicorn.

"It better be. Go help with sharpening the talons." She nudged her head in the direction of the small whetstones they had been provided by their employer. Without question, Lovisa made her way over to her fellow griffons to get the metal talons ready.

She still wasn't entirely certain who their target was, only that they would likely be defended by an elite earth pony guard with professional reinforcements close by. The distraction would draw all attention away from the target while the snatch-team acquired them.

Her fellow mercenaries were of a different sort from her. While she stuck to the more honorable lines of mercenary work, usually guarding some noble, many of her companions were brutal killers who fought in wars. Having fifteen of the best independent operatives in all of Griffonia and Equinia for a single pony seemed like overkill, but then again, it was to make sure they could quickly overwhelm any guard presence around their target.

She could barely make out the conversation the commander was having with one of the other mercenaries to the side: "I know it isn't protocol, but our employer wants them to understand that their words have no effect on us. It's to break her will by failing over and over again to convince us."

"Heavy, pass the spares." She passed the spare mechanisms to the tester who flexed the claws to make sure they could rip out a pony's throat if necessary. With a sigh, she got to sharpening the claws on the whetstone, sparks falling against her leather armor. Her thoughts drifted to who would hire so many deadly mercenaries for a simple snatch-and-break job.

It's not like they were going to be foalnapping a princess.

"Dawny~" Dusty nudged the sleeping stallion from his slumber, getting a grumble of disappointment. "It's time to get up."

"Ugh." He sat up, wiping his face. "What time is it?"

"Almost sunset. Shield wants us all on duty for the pet center fundraiser." She pulled the blanket off of him. "Have a good dream?"

"Not really." He got up from the bed, glancing down to the stiffy he was sporting. "Give me a minute to get ready."

While Dawn got ready, Dusty went over to the garrison desk to look through the papers. No advisories had been sent out by the royal guard about potential threats, which was odd since Princess Twilight herself knew there was an imminent attack. The local garrison also had been cut back down to the one local stallion to make room for the Queen's Guard, and even they weren't very active lately. Not that they were reliable before, anyway.

"Alright, let's go." Dawn trotted out the door in his guard armor followed shortly behind by Dusty. The two met up at the library with Princess Twilight, Shield, and Somnia then they all made their way to the fundraiser grounds set up in the park, the sun setting just as they got to the edge. There were a lot of ponies to watch, and it being at night didn't help anypony except Dawn.

"What kind of pet were you thinking of?" Twilight asked her daughter from ahead of them.

"I don't really know. Maybe something small?"

"Well, there will be plenty of small critters. I'm going to tell you right now though: No cats or dogs. I don't want them ruining any of the books in the library."

"Aww... Alright." The filly pouted, wracking her mind for what sort of pet she was looking for.

They gathered at the front of the crowd, guards dispersing to key points around the park as to not spook anypony. The 'Pony Tones' on stage began their song, receiving cheers of delight from the crowd. From where Dusty was watching, a small crow picked at the ground for food just in front of her hooves.

"Hungry?" She whispered rhetorically.

Easier energy source than self-maintenance. Dusty nearly dropped her spear at the unexpected response, the crow seemingly being unbothered by her surprise.

"W-Wha..." She didn't quite have the words to speak as it flew off towards the crowd, the Pony Tones coming to the end of their performance. Putting a hoof to her ear, she communicated with her fellow guards. "Did anypony else just see a crow?"

"Yeah, it's like it wanted to preen my wings." Dawn snickered from her ear. "Maybe it thought I was a pegasus, or something?"

"It's not some dumb bird, that's the one who gave us the warning. Probably a friend of the queen." Shield responded.

"Yeah, I know. It spoke to me." Dusty walked towards the now dispersing crowd. While Princess Twilight spoke to her friends at the side of the stage, her daughter was staring at the now empty pen in disappointment, all three of her guards gathering around her.

"Looks like you'll have to try another- OW!" Dawn reactively extended his wings to shoo away whatever had picked at them. The crow flew over them to land on the fence in front of Somnia, it's single large cyclops eye staring directly at her.

"Woah..." She walked forward, offering a hoof to the bird that seemed to ignore her attempt to pet its feathers. "Hey there, little fella."

Lass, they're a female. Grar corrected.

"How do you know?" The crow hopped onto Somnia's hoof, bringing it closer to her face. "I can't tell the difference."

Slightly leaner frame, quite tricky if you don't know what the males look like.

"Right." Somnia giggled as the crow hopped up into her mane. "I think she likes me."

"I guess that's one mystery solved." Shield muttered to his fellow guards.

"Huh?" Somnia turned around to face them, crow perched atop her horn.

"It's nothing. Let's go get your mother." Dawn led the way over to the stage where Twilight was waving off her friends. Her eyes focused on the bird atop her daughter, watching it with suspicion.

"Mom! I think she likes me!" Somnia called out to her. "Can I keep her?"

"Somnia..." Twilight got close, glaring directly at the crow. "Are you sure? It's a bit--"

"Unique!" The filly cut her off with an excited shout. "It's so cool! Can I please keep them?"

"Do you even know who that is?" She asked, putting forth a hoof that was picked at by the crow to remove bits of dirt.

"It's a bird! And my newest friend!" The filly exclaimed. "Pretty please?"

Twilight bit her tongue. Clearly this creature was willing to do anything to get on Somnia's good side, meaning that it probably wouldn't be very difficult to take care of. The small corvid picked at its wings from atop Somnia's horn, preening itself on the spot, completely indifferent to the gaze focused on it.

"Yeah, why not?" Twilight shrugged. "But if it makes a mess in the library, it's going back into the wild where it belongs."

"Thank you!" Somnia leapt at her mother for a hug, crow leaping into the air and settling atop the princess' horn.

"I really hope I don't regret this..." She looked up at it staring down on her.

Another day, another couple of random trips around town. Dusty brushed her teeth in front of the mirror, crusties still at the corners of her eyes. It had been a long night. Not because she had any difficulty sleeping, simply because it had been so long since she had a relaxing sleep. The note she received before bed confirmed what she had suspected: Somepony was watching them closely, and they were an old friend of the queen.

Putting her armor on, she adjusted the badge attached to it slightly, making sure to look her best like always. The life of a guard was one of constantly being alert, both for safety and for appearances. Doing one last check of her equipment, she set out towards the library.

Today Somnia wanted to go to Fluttershy's in order to learn more about how to take care of her new pet. Dawn bumped hooves with her as she took his place in front of the library, waiting patiently for her charge to deal with what they needed to do, which probably meant waking up. About an hour later, the three fillies she only knew as the 'crusaders' came by to talk to Twilight about tutoring them or something.

The queen left not long after, clearly disappointed. The two walked through the town in the direction of their destination in relative silence until:

"What are you frowning about?" Dusty asked the question on her mind.

"The crusaders are going to be busy today." Somnia turned up to her. "I was hoping to hang out with them, but mom is going to be helping them develop their practical skills. I was thinking that maybe we could take Little Fae to the park?"

"Little Fae?" Dusty raised a brow. "You named the bird after your deceased friend?"

"Felt like it would be right. Not like I can talk to them to ask for their name." The filly giggled.

"Uhm, about that..." Dusty nervously laughed. "They kinda can talk."

"But not to me!" Somnia pouted. "I'm not Fluttershy! I can't understand what they're cawing!"

"I didn't..." She sighed. It was going to sound crazy to the filly without some form of proof. They continued to walk towards the edge of town, nearing the path to Fluttershy's cottage.

"Did you have any pets growing up?" Somnia asked, smiling to her trusty guard.

"No, not really." Dusty admitted. "Never really had the money for pets, and it was pretty hard to take care of anything big when you lived in a three-room apartment in the middle of a busy city."

"Where are you from?"

"Originally, Baltimare, but we moved to the other side of the river from central Manehattan after I got my cutie mark. Parents worked the factories there." She smiled back. "They expected me to follow their hoofsteps, but I wanted to make a difference, so I joined the guard."

"Do you regret it?" The filly stopped to face her.

"I used to. Hay, I used to want nothing more than to finish my duty to you then get out. But you reminded me of why I joined the guard." The filly closed her eyes suddenly, her face contorting. "Is something wrong?"

"T-They're coming..." Somnia opened her eyes and looked to the horizons. "We need to--"

A deafening roar cut her off as she held her hooves to her ears. "GET DOWN!" Dusty readied herself, turning to face a massive cloud of smoke coming from Sweet Apple Acres. The shockwave nearly knocked her off her hooves, but she managed to steady herself by the time she saw the approaching griffons.

"To the cottage! Move!" She picked up the filly onto her back and made a run for the cottage. They were too far from town to make it before they arrived, but hopefully the others would arrive in time. She couldn't signal the others until she was boarded up in the cottage, getting Somnia into safety was her top priority.

Three griffons dropped down in front of her, each wielding steel talons and snarling at her. She took one last look around her, realizing there was no way out. Eight armored and armed griffons growled and snapped at her in combat stances.

They were surrounded.

"Somnia, I need you to--" She couldn't finish her thought before the griffons charged her, swinging their talons furiously. She took up position over Somnia, using her spear to keep them at bay. Wacking one in the face with the back end, she managed to reset their positions temporarily.

The next attempt wasn't so lucky. A griffon from behind her had flown into the air and dug its talons into her sides, lifting her with it into the air. She grabbed the combat knife from the hidden spot on her armor and began stabbing the griffon with as much anger as she could muster, eventually getting it to let go.

She only realized her mistake far too late...

"Twilight!" Applejack rushed over. "Thank Celestia yer here!"

"What happened?" Twilight took a look over the burning orchard, pegasi coming in from all directions with rain clouds to suppress the flames. Fluttershy was leading the efforts to safely evacuate the animals from the area along with Rarity, her voice unusually deep and masculine. Earth ponies were doing their best to dowse the flames with what water they could ferry from the well and farm pond, preventing the flames from spreading further into the orchard.

"I don't know! I came as soon as ah could! Nopony was here to see what happened and granny was asleep!" Applejack's face scrunched up slightly as she watched her hard work burn to cinders. The vampire fruit bats were in that section, none of them would have survived unless they were at the edges.

Rainbow Dash descended from the sky, landing next to them. She was completely covered in soot, coughing a few times before speaking to them. "We've got it contained, but the center of the fire will need to run out of fuel. I'm sorry, AJ. We're doing what we can."

"Dagnabbit! What in tarnation could have caused this?" Applejack asked, frustrated at the loss of so many of her trees.

"Twilight, come in!" Shield said over the earpiece. Putting a hoof to her ear, Twilight responded.

"This is Twilight. Is Somnia safe?"

"...You'll want to come back to the library." Her heart dropped, blood running from her face. This was it... This was the attack! Flying as fast as she could towards the library, her mind couldn't focus on anything other than hoping that Somnia wasn't- No, she's fine. She has to be!

A knock at the door startled Morning Drops from his daily routine. The second such instance that morning. "I'll get it!" His 'marefriend' called out, trotting to the door.

"C-Captain?!" Blossomforth stepped aside to allow Captain Shattershield entry. "W-What can I do for you?"

"Where's your coltfriend?" He demanded

"Here!" Morning Drops put down his wrench, wiping the sweat off with a towel before going over to see the captain. "What can I do for you, sir?"

"I'm calling you in." He walked into the small study that was converted into a workshop. "Thank you for your assistance, Ms.Blossomforth, but your services will no longer be required."

"It was my pleasure. Anything for the princesses." She bowed before grabbing her saddlebags and departing, leaving the two stallions to talk.

The captain took one look over the yellow and green stallion, frowning. "Take off that ridiculous disguise. The queen has been foalnapped!"

Changing back to his natural form, the changeling lead the captain up to his room. While he got on his armor, the captain filled him in on everything he knew then the two left for the library where three other ponies and the damn crow were waiting. Other than the other two Queen's Guard, there was a doctor that tended to the earth pony one, he kinda forgot her name.

"Is she stable?" The captain turned to the doctor.

"For now. Heavy blood loss, but the wounds are manageable. I would like to take her back to the hospital for observation and assessment on the severity of the concussion."

That won't be necessary, she'll be fine. The crow responded, perched atop Broken Dawn's head.

The captain contacted Twilight while the others discussed strategy, but nothing would be final until Princess Twilight weighed in.

A minute later, the door burst open and the princess stopped in her tracks at first sight of the changeling. "What are they doing here?!"

"Corporeal Scutellum, Queen's Guard infiltrator." The changeling bowed. "Good to finally meet you, your highness."

"Scutellum was recruited when the Queen's Guard was in its infancy. They've been handling threats that we otherwise wouldn't have been able to." Shield filled in her in, providing a bit of comfort before the bombshell. "Somnia has been foalnapped."

Twilight took a seat, putting her head in her hooves. "How?! When?!"

"The explosion was a distraction. Meant to draw everypony's attention towards it. When Dusty didn't answer her comms, I went looking for her. She was thrown into a bush next to Fluttershy's cottage, no filly in sight." The captain finished, nodding to the bird. "Our organizer went to get the doctor while I gathered the others."

Twilight Sparkle, I am Excalion, loyal servant of the Grand Councillor and colleague of Grogar. It cawed out.

"I can't believe this is happening..." Twilight whimpered into her hooves. She turned up to look at them all, eyes in shock. "Do you know where they might be taking her?"

"I've told you everything we know." The captain sat down across from her. "Maybe Dusty will be able to tell us more when she wakes up, but otherwise we're in the dark. Whoever did this were professionals, leaving quickly and quietly."

"Could be griffon mercenaries." Scutellum suggested, choosing to stand. "There's been rumors circulating within the Lunar Guard about the best-of-the-best being hired for some super-secret job by an unknown client the past two weeks."

"If whoever it is can cherry-pick from the merc gangs, they must have made quite a lucrative deal." Dawn added. "Only somepony rich, powerful, or both could afford to do that."

"That's all you have?" Twilight looked between them, receiving reluctant nods. "THAT'S IT?!"

"We didn't even know about the threat until yesterday morning!" Shield defended. "How were we to do any preparing on such short notice?"

Twilight took a shaky breath, letting a few tears drop. "Just find her, please. I don't care what you do, or who you need to hurt, I just want her back." The princess got up from her seat, walking up the stairs to go to her desk. Celestia needed to know.

"Scutellum, Dawn, scout the local forests. We need to determine what direction they are headed. I'll go to Isirilas to see if they can give me any additional details about the attack. Doctor, stay here and make sure Dusty is alright." The captain ordered. "Alright, move out!"

"Please!" The filly pleaded to the merc that was holding her against him. "I've done nothing wrong!"

"Shut it!" They yelled at her. "Or I'll tape it shut!"

"Would you two quiet down?" The commander turned on them. "We need to get to the clearing before nightfall, and we can't risk being discovered!"

The group continued to walk through the forest in the direction of the Unicorn Range. From what Somnia could see, there were about fourteen creatures, twelve griffons and two ponies, one of which was the unicorn with a broken horn that was calling the shots. That didn't include the dead body one of the mercenaries was carrying, of course. Other than the commander and the other mare, the only other female was a griffoness that didn't look amused with the trek through the forest, the fifth creature she had to readjust her eyes for, and the one she realized would probably be willing to help her.

They walked for hours, none even daring to open their wings in case they felt compelled to fly. Eventually, they reached a small concealed section of the woods and began to set up their tents. Somnia tried struggling free when they untied her, but nothing came of it when they held her against a tree to put on the shackles. Two griffons stood guard while the others set up their camp for the night.

Through the leaves above, Somnia could see the sky shift from day to night, plunging the camp into darkness. A few candles were lit so that they could see around the camp, but not enough to draw suspicion for anypony flying overhead. The largest light source was the fire at the center.

"Bring the corpse over!" The commander ordered and two griffons dragged the corpse of their fallen comrade over to the fire, tossing it in unceremoniously. Somnia watched as the feathers caught fire, engulfing the entire body and emitting the horrible stench of burning flesh. The griffons and other ponies had nose plugs, she didn't.

Gagging, she tried covering her nose in vain as the griffons continued about their tasks. Grar? Can you hear me?

Only the silence of her own mind responded. He was out cold for the next couple of days, she needed to think of a plan on her own.

"Status?" Shield came over the earpiece.

"Blood trail ends at a stream. They've been careful not to leave tracks, but it seems they're headed to the Unicorn Range." Scutellum answered, picking up the loose feather next to the stream. "It's not looking good."

"Nothing from above either." Dawn answered. "Either we're headed in the wrong direction, or they are moving a lot faster than we can keep up."

"It's the right direction. Those mountains have plenty of caves and wooded alcoves to hide out in." The changeling started walking past the stream in the general direction he believed they had went.

"We'll never find her if she gets to the mountains." Shield growled. "Where the buck is our reinforcements?"

"Apparently, delayed." Dawn flew down next to Scutellum. "Unless we get the Lunar Guard's trackers or a thousand guards to comb the forest, the guard won't be much help."

Shield sighed over the comms. "We can't do this without support. I'll go speak to Princess Twilight about that letter I asked her to send."

Somnia finished her small rock sculpture. It wasn't much, not that you could make anything fancy with three rocks, but it was at least something to do. Two of the rocks were leaned against one another with the third balanced at their peak.

"I'm bored..." She laid down in a huff, knocking over her little sculpture. "Can I please have something to eat?"

"I said shut up!" One of her griffon guards yelled at her before turning back to his fellow guard. "You sure?"

"I'm sure." She stated simply. "Look for a whorse when this is over."

"We don't know how long that's going to be. We could be damn near holding that filly for years!"

"I'm thirsty. Can I have a drink?" Somnia tried again.

"I said shut up!" He went over to give her a punch in the stomach. "Keep your trap shut!"

"Oww..." She whimpered out, the other guard turning to glare at her companion.

"She's allowed water. I'll go get some while you keep an eye on her."

With the griffoness gone, Somnia turned on the charm by slyly smiling up at her sole defender. "You know, if you don't know how long you're going to be on assignment, is it really worth it?"

"Like you would know anything about how much its worth." The guard returned to his post.

"I'm a princess, going to be queen one day. I could make it worth your while... A full pardon for your crimes, and a generous pension for your heroism in my rescue? You could retire fat and happy anywhere in Equestria, living life without the danger. Is a one-time payment really worthwhile?" She smiled to the guard's back receiving only silence in turn as he considered it.

"It's only a matter of time before I'm found." The filly tried again as the griffoness returned. "My guards probably won't take prisoners, unless I order them to. I can give you both pardons." The griffoness handed a cup of water to the filly to drink.

"Has she seriously been trying to bribe you?" The griffoness looked to the other guard while the filly drank her water.

"Yeah. Whatever she can give ain't worth shit compared to the pay." He answered while the griffoness took the cup back.

Somnia sighed, laying her head back on her hooves. Plan A wasn't possible since Grar was out, plan B clearly wasn't going to work, plan C then...

Giving a yawn, she stretched out as much as she could with the restraints. "Can I talk to your leader, at least?"

"No." The male griffon responded simply.

Plan C could wait until the morning, right now, she was too tired to do anything.

If there was one good thing to be said about being foalnapped, Somnia didn't need to walk from place to place. The mercenaries set out just before sunrise and had been walking for several hours at least before taking a small break. Through the breaks in the trees, she could see the mountains looming overhead.

Due to the temporary arrangement, Somnia finally got a good opportunity to see the the entire mercenary team up close. Scarred griffons stretched out or relaxed while the leader checked a map, likely planning their next route. She really couldn't move within the ropes around her, which were particularly uncomfortable around her wings.

"Do you even know where we're headed?" One of the griffons approached the leader.

"Shut up and go back with the others!" She snarled back, casting a spare glance to Somnia. "And get a magic suppression ring on her!"

"Didn't the boss say she couldn't use any magic?" Another of the griffons chuckled while chewing on some jerky. "What kind of pathetic princess is she? Can't even use magic..."

"You know," Somnia called out, getting the attention of the leader, "I can pay you all even more than whoever employed you."

The leader tucked away the map and walked over to the filly, leaning down to position her snout within smelling distance of Somnia's. "You're a nopony. The other alicorns would have to be even more pathetic than you if you're able to access the treasury." She picked up the filly, holding onto the ropes, their snouts touching to drive the point home. "Nopony believes you. Face it, you're going to our client no matter what you say. You're going to be hoofed over, and we're going to get paid."

"I don't believe that's true." Somnia stated. "We're all creatures of Equus, there's good in all of your hearts." She regarded the other unamused mercenaries, receiving several eye rolls. "You always have a choice in what you do, even if it may not seem like it. I'm offering you all a chance to leave your life of violence behind, to live without worries of going hungry or not having a roof over your heads. You can make friends, ones you can rely on through the thick and thin. Isn't that worth more than this?"

The unicorn dropped her back to the ground, going back over to where she was before. "Alright, listen up! We're moving out! Gather your supplies and let's get moving!"

The griffoness walked over to Somnia and picked her up, tucking her under an arm. For the next couple of hours, Somnia considered her options. These mercenaries were clearly prepared for whatever she threw at them. Well paid and informed with information that isn't public. Whoever was behind all of this was somepony within the Equestrian government, but who?

"You comfortable?" The griffoness whispered down to her.

"As comfortable as I can be tied up." Somnia answered, her mind transitioning back to Plan B. "You're not like these other griffons."

The griffoness kept her mouth shut so Somnia continued. "I meant what I said before. You'll be safe here in Equestria. You can retire from all of this dangerous work."

With no response, Somnia resolved herself to working out plan D. They stopped after a few more hours to take another short rest while the leader rechecked their movements on the map, giving Somnia her opportunity. She struggled against the ropes, hoping to release her wings from their prison. While she couldn't get them out, she did manage to make enough room to do what she had planned.

"That's it!" Somnia yelled out, activating her magical aura by mustering enough anger. "If you aren't willing to--"

One of the griffons leapt over and smacked her face, punching her gut several times. "Don't you even think about it! We know about your little 'gift'! We're not going to fall for it, bitch!" He went back over to his bags, another few griffons giving her dirty looks.

Somnia spat blood onto the ground, catching her breath from the assault. Her mind slowly drifted from planning to despair. Grar... Help me. I can't do this alone.

Swiveling her ears, she could barely catch the conversation one of the griffons were having with the leader.

"What exactly are we supposed to be doing with them anyway?"

"Our job is to secure her somewhere nopony will find her and break her spirit. It's not that complicated."

"Break her spirit, huh?" The griffon turned back to the filly with a devious grin. "Ya know, some of the others wouldn't mind getting a piece of her."

"I'm not going to tell you again." The leader grabbed the scruff of his neck. "I'm not allowing you to do that to her!"

"Then let's contact the boss and ask! It's not up to you!"

The leader turned to the others. "Everygriff, we're moving out!"

"This doesn't bode well." Dawn picked at the charred bones while the others fanned out around the site. Common pathways signified the most commonly traveled paths through the camp and several spots had also been flattened indicating where the tents had been.

"They really aren't taking risks." Shield ignited his horn and started scanning the different disturbed areas. "Definitely griffons, at least ten, but there seems to be at least one pony too".

"You sure it isn't the queen?" Dusty examined a particular spot that was disturbed, small rocks arranged in a peculiar pattern making a simplistic statuette.

"I'm sure." He sighed, putting a hoof to his ear. "Where's our support?"

"The guard is mobilizing but it's going to take time." Twilight responded from Ponyville.

Scutellum activated his earpiece. "The buck do you mean it's going to take time?! They're ready at a moment's notice by design!"

"There's something else that's distracting them. Apparently there's been some movement at Equestria's borders that's preoccupied them." Twilight's voice conveyed defeat.

"Just our luck." Dawn muttered under his breath. "How convenient that they can't spare a single squad to help us out..."

"Shut your mouth!" Shield marched up to him, turning them towards him and jabbing his chest-plate. "They're busy with something else important. Looking for a single pony isn't worth mobilizing the entire guard when others are in danger!"

"That's a load of horse apples." Dusty walked over. "You were assigned to the search effort for her like us, you know how much they care! They spared no expense to find her when she initially appeared!"

Would you three settle down? Excalion asked from the tree above. I'm having trouble focusing because of your bickering.

"Aren't you supposed to be some expert agent? What's wrong, too tired?" Dawn sneered.

Shield smacked him in the face. "She's been nothing but supportive to us! Maybe if the Lunar Guard had any discipline you'd understand what patience is like!"

"We're not as disorganized as you think." Dusty raised a questioning hoof. "Did you ever actually try seeing us work?"

"I've seen him and his division! It's a mess!" Shield retorted. "Barely any structure, distracting themselves on duty, prioritizing meaningless patrols over standing guard at key locations! It's disgraceful!"

"The royal guard ain't much better." Scutellum added, finally weighing in.

"And what's a changeling know about us?" Dusty turned on him. "You infiltrated the coronation to hurt or kill her when we were all serving dutifully!"

QUIET! Excalion cawed. What is wrong with all of you?! We're trying to save our queen from the grip of those that would hurt or kill her! It's what we all agreed to sign on for!

We've all made mistakes, but that doesn't justify turning on one another the moment the queen isn't around! We're sworn to her service, and we'll be damned to erasure if we let her die on our watch!

Each of the guards mumbled as they dispersed back around the clearing, each mulling over their position in the Queen's Guard.

No, all of you get back here. She flew between them, plucking at their manes until they returned to the tree. Once they all reluctantly gathered together, Excalion flew to behind them and unleashed a burst of light. Each turned, their eyes going wide at the sight, looking up at the colossal figure which now towered over them.

I was assigned to ensure the emergence of the Grand Councillor of Harmony and to assist them to realize their potential! Each of you were hoof-picked by her. She pointed to each of them with her claws. I wasn't. I was given my orders by the Prophet, not her. But each of you are personally sworn to her service. Your very essence was intrinsically tied to her, from the moment of your conception.

Look to your cutie marks, you all knew it was true since you laid eyes upon her. It doesn't matter if you have different ways of serving her, you are all equals in her eyes. She chose you for who you are, and will release you from service when she deems fit. Your duty is to her, and her alone. The creature extended each of their arms, letting light shine from their core.

That is what it means to be a pentus. Each of your lives are for her to choose the direction of, so that you may carry out her will without question. Get over yourselves! You are all equally important to our efforts! If you want to abandon your duties, then leave! She pointed in the direction they came. The Grand Councillor can't afford to keep weak-minded creatures around her. You'll have a chance to live a normal life before your last moments, free from duty to the highest cause!

The choice is yours to make, as it always was!

From where Somnia laid, she could barely see the activity in the camp as they set up their tents. The leader had went off into the woods with two griffons and some sort of potion while the others worked, making the filly wonder exactly what they were doing. Her answer came soon enough as they came back, the leader looking absolutely furious.

"I quit! You're in charge!" She jabbed the other mare with her hoof, passing the key-ring to the confused unicorn. "I'm not going to be part of this!"

The other two griffons walked over, the smirks on their faces told Somnia that whatever they were about to do, she wasn't going to enjoy.

"So? What did they say?" The griffon guarding Somnia asked them.

The original instigator leaned in close to them, whispering something the filly couldn't hear. The third griffon donned the grin, and all three moved towards her.

From the camp, Lovisa carefully pitched her tent when the first noises came from the prisoner. She sighed, closing her eyes as the filly cried out and swearing under her breath.

"Wait, what are you- Ow, that hurts! Stop it! Please stop! NO! STOP! P-PLEASE!"

It was going to be a restless night for both of them.

Author's Note

The original alias for Lovisa was 'Heavytalon', but I decided to go with a more canon name for... later. But Heavytalon was still a nice alias to use for her mercenary work.

I'm still disappointed by the ending. It feels like I should add more to that last scene, but I just couldn't think of what. Anyway, it's finally out.

Chapter 16: Ideals

I know how we can save the tree. We have to give it the Elements of Harmony.

Woah, woah, woah, heh. How are we supposed to protect Equestria?

How are we meant to rein Discord in if we can't use the Elements to turn him back to stone?

Twilight... The Elements of Harmony... They're what keep us connected no matter what.

You're right about one thing, Applejack.

"Thanks." Somnia took the cup and gulped down the water, letting out a sigh of relief while the griffoness returned to her position without a word. Returning to her stretches, Somnia looked around at the clearing they were in. The trees didn't fully cover the forest floor below, meaning anypony flying overhead would see the group, but this far north there would be very few ponies around.

They seemed to have settled into a single spot next to a cave system for easy escape in case of assault. She had been trying every day to get Grar to respond to her with not even a peep from her companion. It was hopeless. Until he woke up, she would just have to suffer through whatever they threw at her, and it had already been a bit too much.

With all the time in the world, she settled her head onto her forelegs and closed her eyes. The isolation gave her a lot of time to think, more than she wanted. Reliving the events of the past few days, she looked for something she could use to her advantage. Maybe she misjudged one of her captures, maybe there was still a way to convince them...

...

There was nothing. None of the griffons that guarded her were willing to accept the bribe she offered, even after several bribery attempts against each. It didn't help that they practically saw it as an invitation to use her some more. She didn't know where they were, or even if there were ponies anywhere close-by. It really was hopeless.

The griffoness which stood guard over the filly sighed, leaning against her spear as the next change of the guard came over. Somnia gave a deep sigh as well knowing exactly what was about to happen, watching them take up positions while the previous shift returned to the camp. It wasn't long before one spoke.

"You wanna go first?" One of the guards asked their companion.

"Not feelin' it right now, go ahead."

The griffon shrugged and moved towards Somnia, her eyes lazily lowering to his dick. Another round for the records. The griffon flipped her over and positioned himself on top of her, forcing himself inside of her snatch. She kept her eyes closed as he thrust in and out of her, trying to ignore or forget what was occurring.

The pain was getting more bearable, which at least gave her an escape to continue thinking about what to do. On occasion they would reposition her into a different, yet equally uncomfortable position, but that wasn't what she wanted to think about. Was there something she was missing? A piece of information that could help? Ever single one of the mercenaries was adamant in their devotion to getting the job done. The pay was apparently really that good.

She whimpered as the griffon dug their claws into her fur as they climaxed, scratching her hind-quarters and drawing blood. They finished by throwing her to the ground like dirt into a grave, leaving her to lay in the mess. "Fucking whorse." He spat on her, moving back to his spot next to the other guard.

Her tears came soon enough as she thought about home, whimpering herself into a ball. I miss you, mom...

Sitting at her desk, the quill in her magical grip dripped ink onto the paper. She didn't feel up to it. It had been over a week since the Queen's Guard had left, and no word from them after asking about the reinforcements. No crow, no captain, not even the foal-fiddler. Were they even looking? Why so long with no report?

Putting her quill back into its well, she crumpled up the page and threw it lazily into the waste bin, missing by several hooves to land in the small pile next to it. Twilight laid her head down on her desk, hoping, praying that Somnia was alright. Every day she hoped for word, for any sign that her daughter would be returning to her. Celestia promised a full investigation by the Royal Guard, but none had come by since she had asked. Did Somnia matter that little to them? Did she matter that little to Celestia?

Twilight idly flitted her hoof through the scrolls at the side of her desk, looking for one in particular. Taking out the large rolled up paper, she unrolled it on her desk to view its contents. The blade of cruel design...

Somnia wanted it to protect herself. But now it was too late. Twilight thought she was safe, that she was going to be okay. Her tears fell to the paper, slowly dotting it. She sobbed for her daughter, her reluctance to listen, not trusting her with her own safety. But now it was too late. Somnia was gone, and she may never see her again. Her daughter was gone.

Several minutes passed as she sobbed against the paper, cursing herself for her mistakes. For all she knew, Somnia could be in a shallow grave or being trafficked back to Griffonia to become the personal plaything of some despicable monster. The worst thing about it was that there was nothing she could do. She didn't know how to track a pony through the woods, or interrogate other ponies. All she could do was follow Celestia's orders to keep the foalnapping on the down-low. Sitting up, she was about to roll the paper back up when she saw there was writing beneath the design, only revealed when wet.

Taking the vase from her desk, she slowly poured it over the design to reveal... something. It was a series of sigils, but more than that, she recognized a small note above them that read 'Ignite your heart, and let me be free!'

Using her magic on the paper, it disintegrated before her eyes, reforming itself into Somnia's shape, albeit tinted purple due to the magic at work. Twilight got up from her chair and backed away, staring in disbelief. Her eyes teared up at the sight of her daughter, even if it was only a hologram.

"Is it... Okay, thanks." The phantom filly shifted slightly on her hooves. "Hey, mom. If you get this message, it probably means I've been foalnapped or killed, or something. Grar wanted me to leave you with a message in case something bad happened.

"I know the past few weeks have been tough on you, I know I'm not a very good daughter." She looked to the ground, which was serving as the floor just in front of the desk, breaking Twilight's heart even more while she caught the feeling in her throat. "There is still a lot you don't know about me, and about what I'm meant to do. I-I want to say goodbye, one last time. I meant what I said before when we talked, I'll always love you. And even if the universe revolts against forever...

"We will always be together." The hologram faded into ashes, settling atop Twilight's desk. The alicorn fell to her haunches, bawling into her hooves as her tears returned in full force, every single regret flooding back all at once. She pounded her hooves on the ground, cursing and swearing at herself. She briefly got up to swipe everything off her desk onto the ground, wailing as she fell back onto her side.

Opening the door to the room, Spike briefly looked in to see his adoptive mother weeping, entire stacks of paper thrown to the floor and ink spilled everywhere. He slowly entered, making his way over to her, bringing her into a hug as she cried. Without warning, he also teared up as he held onto her tighter, making his own silent prayers for the safety of his sister.

Where did I go wrong?! Twilight screamed internally, her cries only getting louder.

Wiping her eyes, Somnia sat up cringing at the pain in her everything. She was alone, even the two guards stranding nearby were of little consequence. It had been days. Days of beatings, rapes, and starvation. Nopony was going to find her. They were hidden away in the Crystal Mountains somewhere nopony would look. The old leader had abandoned the mercenaries that night, ruining any chance of plan C working, and the new leader found a twisted pleasure in watching the other mercenaries ravage her body.

The only creature that showed her any kind of kindness was the griffoness that watched her on occasion. She even had talked a bit about another contract they had worked on, protecting some griffon noble. From what little the filly could gather, she didn't seem to like how the others treated Somnia, but was still devoted to pushing through the contract because the payment was too good, just like all the others.

She needed a plan... But all four had failed. There was nothing else she could do but wait. Unless...

Grar? GRAR?! She tried mentally shouting, however ridiculous it might have been. There was always plan A, but she would need to get Grar to do it.

S-Somnia?

She breathed out a sigh of relief. Thank the Ascended you're awake!

Wait, where are... No.

Yes! I need your help! I've been foalnapped and I need to get a message to my guards!

I'm so sorry, Som. I should have--

The sooner we get this done, the better! I need you repeal a layer of my protections. It will serve as a beacon so I can be rescued!

I'm still quite weak from when I repealed those two layers for you. I fear that I would fall back into a slumber should I do that again, even if its only a single layer. Are you sure you can handle yourself while I'm gone?

We don't have a choice! Nopony knows where we are!

Your captors won't take kindly to it.

I'll suffer through whatever they throw at me as long as I can go home!

Grar took a few moments to consider it. I'm so sorry for all the suffering this will cause...

Twilight boarded the chariot 'borrowed' by the Queen's Guard. They were headed to the Crystal Mountains to look for the large magical energy spike, her heart feeling a hundred times lighter as she received a glimmer of hope. Somnia was alive. Apparently the guards had been busy searching for her, although she didn't know with what exactly they had been doing.

"They won't wait on us!" Shield ushered her into the chariot that was pulled by Scutellum and Broken Dawn. She strapped herself in, and braced. There would be no speed limits on this ride. Setting off into the skies, they made quick work to pick up speed towards their destination with a magical boost from Excalion who flew alongside the chariot.

"We'll need you to use the soul-finding spell on page 89." He hoofed over a book marked with the cutie mark of Star Swirl.

Twilight looked over the book, examining the signature horn-writing of the legendary wizard. "Where did you get this?"

"Broke into the Canterlot Archives." Dusty answered proudly. "That was actually quite fun. Those guards are probably still wondering who we were."

"I'm certain they'll get over it." Shield chuckled.

"So what's the plan when we find her?" Twilight asked, flipping through the book and examining the spell in question. It was meant to pick out the signatures of ponies based on the memories and emotions of the caster, resulting in the spell being effective over a much large area than the previous iterations and being five times more precise. The stronger the emotions, the more accurate and larger the area scanned. Perfect for finding a single pony over such a massive area. And perfect for a mother looking for a foalnapped filly.

"We save her, no matter the cost." Dusty said firmly. "Don't hold back, because they certainly won't."

"Wouldn't bringing the other elements--"

"It'd take too long, and they're more than likely to get themselves hurt." Shield shook his head. "We're only bringing you because we believe you can handle yourself. Give no quarter, Twilight. Today, Somnia returns home."

"You're relieved." Lovisa dismissed the guards standing watch over the filly with her partner. The day shift had done quite the number on the foal for that little stunt at their previous camp, to the point that Lovisa was only convinced the bloodied and battered filly was alive from the rise and fall of her chest. Her soft whimpering providing an unsettling background noise as she settled into her post.

"She had it comin' to her." Her fellow merc chewed a toothpick indifferently. "Did she think she could have done that and not be punished?"

"You didn't have to- UGH! What the fuck is wrong you you griffs?" She turned on him. "She's just a filly!"

"What? You actually care about them?" He chuckled. "Damn, where did you come from?"

"Clearly somewhere more civilized than you!" She turned back to staring into the distance.

"Whatever, bitch."

"P-Please... N-No m-more..."

The griffon mercs turned to the whimpering filly who had huddled up into a ball. "Looks like she wants more!" He laid down his spear on the neighboring tree to approach her for round whatever. The blood and semen on the ground clearly marked how far they had gone to punish her if the horn and wings didn't already make Lovisa's stomach turn.

She was barely holding back from stabbing the bastard through the spine, teeth grinding against each other. Lovisa turned back briefly as he propped the filly against the tree, tapping his shaft on her face to get it to enlarge. The filly no longer had any tears remaining, only sobs. She was helpless... Broken. They had accomplished their job, but it didn't feel like a job well done. It felt... hollow. As though Lovisa lost something by allowing this, for merely being involved. And she hated this feeling as much as when--

A loud explosion shook her from the anger, gaze falling back towards the camp. "What the fuck was that?!" Sounds of combat ensued, but neither of the guards went to investigate in case the filly somehow managed to escape or it was meant to draw them away.

"Better get this over with." The griffon merc turned the foal around and pushed aside her tail. With one last bite against her lip that drew blood, Lovisa threw her spear directly through him, impaling him to the tree with a surprised gurgle.

Quickly moving over to the chains, Lovisa began looking for ways to break them. Only that bitch of a mare had the key, and she was at the camp. Grabbing her former companion's spear, she wedged it between the links and began tugging it, one paw holding down the chain closest to the filly to make sure she wasn't tugged too badly.

After a minute of tugging, the link broke. She repeated the process for the other link next to it, breaking it and unhooking the filly's shackles from the tree. Quickly looking over the poor foal, she saw that their bruised eyes opened slightly to look at her. Lovisa couldn't hold her tears anymore, letting a few loose. "T-There we go. You're going to be okay, i-it's--"

A shockwave knocked her from the filly, directly into a tree. The last thing she saw was a rock outcropping before the world went dark.

Twilight dropped like a bomb upon the encampment, magic she had charged up unleashed in a single devastating explosion that blew over the tents and cooking stands. Scutellum, who had made an impromptu disguise for himself, slit the throat on a surprised griffon before the rest understood what was happening. Teleporting into the middle of the camp, Shield put up a barrier around two of the griffons, shrinking it down until their bones were crushed in a sickening crunch.

A griffon that had been knocked down by the explosion lunged at Twilight but was once more knocked down when a spear went through them, the guardsmare who had thrown it leaping on top and smashing their neck with her hooves to make sure they were down permanently.

It was only then that Twilight realized what was happening, and the dread began to set in. Dawn came looping back around, plummeting through the trees directly into the singular pony there, metal fangs digging into her neck. With one tug of his head, her entire throat was pulled open as she gurgled the blood quickly spilling out.

Two of the griffons tackled Shield, getting into a bloody hoof-to-claw combat with the stallion, while another two sparred with Dawn and Scutellum. The remaining four charged Twilight and Dusty, claws at the ready. Swallowing her own feelings on the matter and focusing her anger, Twilight unleashed a lethal magical bolt directly into the shoulder of a griffon, blowing it apart with a splatter of blood, severing the arm and immediately sending the griffon into shock.

Two went for Dusty, grabbing the spear as she tried keeping them at bay and tossing her into the neighboring tree, leaving Twilight with one.

They pounced at her, managing to make contact while Twilight thrust her head directly into their body, right where the heart would be, suffering gashes on her own back from their talons. The impact of rib-on-horn sent her vision into stars, but she pulled out of them to see that the rest were cleaned up by the other guards.

Dawn had a gash down his wing from a reckless jump to assist Dusty, rendering flight infeasible. Shield and Scutellum had each taken a guard and dispatched them with equally brutal methods, fire and stabbing through the spine respectively. The four had scratches all over them and the mixed blood of the now deceased mercenaries dripped from their bodies.

Looking to Dusty, Twilight nearly threw up as the mare with a gashed and bloody face executed the wounded griffon from Twilight, the other two from her in various states of dying. But there wasn't time to think about that right now. There was a filly to save. Her daughter was coming home.

Galloping towards the sound of a faint voice, Twilight unleashed a shockwave pushing the griffon off of her daughter, receiving a massive magical backlash from her horn that knocked her to the ground. Her eyesight slowly readjusted as the other guards began gathering where they were, her ears wringing and eyesight blurry as her mind throbbed against the walls of her skull. Shield signaled Excalion who flew down and opened a portal for them with her magic. Walking through the portal after the wounded guards, Shield carrying Somnia in his magic, the Princess of Equestria found herself in front of Ponyville General Hospital.

Twilight finally took in the air and let herself fall unconscious from the overwhelming pain.

She'll be alright, I assure you doctor.

"I-If you say so. I'm n-not going to go against the orders of t-the queen."

Twilight slowly opened her eyes to see a truly massive, thin limbed, bleach-white biped towering over the doctor, crouching in the relatively low ceiling. It turned to Twilight with its blank face, reaching out to place a... hand, it had hands! And more than two! It had six!

Twilight Sparkle, it is good to see you awake.

"W-What--" Twilight's eyes were widely focused on the thing that attempted to comfort her, both her breathing and heart in full panic.

This is my natural form. I've avoided using it since the early years, however, it does have its uses. I am known as a girivi, a Child of Soul. You took quite the hit to your horn, if it bent any further, I fear it would have broken the skull. Excalion answered.

"M-My..." Twilight looked up, calming down a bit as she remembered what had brought her to the hospital. She could see a black splint on her horn, one she recognized from her studies into unicorn medicine. "H-How bad is it?"

You'll recover, you all will. No magic for a week or two, however.

"Somnia! I didn't get to see how she was!" Twilight tried sitting up, but the headache knocked her back down and added stars to her vision.

Badly hurt, but fully recoverable. Excalion left it at that as she engulfed herself in a bright light before appearing as a crow once more, settling onto Twilight's bed. Shield is gathering your friends.

"Can I see her? Is she awake?"

She is awake. She was awake until the doctor's took her in for surgery, unfortunately.

Her face paled at the implication. "W-What did they do to her?"

When you are strong enough to move, we will take you to her room. But not a moment sooner.

A couple of minutes later, her friends burst through the door with a slightly scar-faced Dusty and limping Shield following behind.

"Twilight!" "It's so good to see you are alright, darling!" "We were so worried about you!" "What in tarnation did you go trottin' off for?" "What's wrong with your horn?"

"Girls, please." Twilight silenced them with a hoof. "I'll explain everything."

Dawn laid on the double-bed he had pushed together, his hoof held by the filly he was sworn to serve. She told him everything, sealing him and everypony else to a vow of silence on what happened. The doctors and nurses wouldn't dare go against her orders, on the penalty of death or worse, an oddly terrifying declaration from the filly. Even so, the treatment would still raise suspicion with Twilight.

Somnia didn't say anymore, content to hold onto his hoof while she slept. He had gotten a good look at her before the doctors examined her in-depth. Carved horn to the core in several places, clipped wings with primaries forcefully pulled out, torn vagina and anus, cracked and broken ribs, several shattered or missing teeth, beaten black-and-blue with two black eyes to show for it. Nearly a dozen fractures and just as many cracks when it was all said and done. A pregnancy test was also ordered, confirming that she wasn't pregnant from him, which was an odd thing to feel relieved about considering what happened.

The only pony that wasn't hurt badly was Scutellum who currently stood guard outside the door, scanning everypony who dared to come down the hallway to make sure the ponies are who they say they are. He had heard what he presumed was a nurse come down the hallway about an hour prior, but the shouting from Scutellum was more than enough to drive her off to get proper identification. The hospital was effectively on lock-down since the Royal Guard arrived from Canterlot. Only injured ponies, staff, or authorized ponies were being allowed inside.

He himself wouldn't be flying for a few weeks, which would severely limit his effectiveness at guarding her. Then again, Shield had a broken leg and Dusty received an even more severe concussion than last time.

A few hours passed as he drifted in and out of sleep, the occasional doctor or nurse coming to check on the bandages. After the moon had risen above the horizon, Scutellum opened the door for a familiar face. Being pushed along by Dusty was Twilight, still unable to walk from the horn injury. Her face contorted in horror as she saw the state of her daughter, tears falling before she could even reach the bed.

She cried against Somnia's other hoof while he and Dusty went to get something to eat from the cafeteria. Twilight sat there holding onto her daughter's hoof, gently whimpering to herself for what was likely an hour, but it could have been longer or shorter. Nothing mattered in those moments for her, she only wanted to hear her daughter's voice again. To know she was going to be okay.

"H-Hey, m-mom..." The filly whispered out, voice still shaky, but finally awake.

"SOMNIA!" Twilight's head shot up, with the immediate regret of the pain flooding her senses. "Owww..."

"Hehe, yeah, that probably would hurt." The filly tried giggling, but it turned out to be more of wet cough.

"Your horn..." Twilight didn't dare try to touch it. Chips were carved out of it, some brushing against the core. She could only hope that Somnia had passed out from shock...

"Yeah." She squeezed her mother's hoof. "Hurts as bad as my back." And one other place, but she wasn't going to mention that.

"D-Did they..."

"I'm fine. Trust me, I'll be okay." The filly consoled her, using her other hoof to rub Twilight's.

"But did they--"

"Shhhh..." Somnia closed her eyes, letting the pain soak in. "We're alright. Both of us. Nopony was permanently hurt, and that's what matters most."

"Somnia... we..." Twilight bit back the tears. "I-I killed somepony. I-I just w-wanted you back."

"Would they have killed you?" The filly opened her eyes back up. "Would you be here if you didn't?"

"No..." Twilight sobbed onto her daughter's hoof. "I-I'd be dead like they are..."

"Then you're going to be alright." She sighed. "The tenets of Harmony are preserved."

"I don't understand how you can be so calm after what you went through." She looked back up in disbelief. How could she be so calm? Was she passed out when they did all this? Is that why? But Excalion had implied--

"I'm just happy you're here." She weakly smiled to her mother. "I'm happy you came for me."

"I-I love you." Twilight laid her head back on Somnia's hoof, knowing that she couldn't stop the tears of the next statement even if she wanted to. "E-Even if the universe revolts a-against forever..."

"We will always be together." Somnia reached out with her forehooves, her mother getting up slightly to bring her into a gentle hug. "I love you too, mom."

Each of the ponies gathered around the bed, Somnia looking between them. "What happened while I was gone?" She weakly demanded.

"We found and eliminated spies within Ponyville from the changelings and Celestia. We hoofed them off to Isirilas to dispose of in the swamps." Shield rubbed his chin. "After the trail went cold for a full day, we came back to town and quietly scoured it. The residents will attest to how thorough we were. We shouldn't have missed any spies."

"We also managed to find their initial camp to the north-west. They abandoned the heavier equipment, mostly whetstones to sharpen their metal claws." Scutellum added.

"Are there any prisoners to interrogate?" Somnia asked.

Dawn sighed. "Other than the griffon Twilight knocked out, no. We kinda went a bit overboard with them."

Somnia laid back, although not too hard due to the pain from her wings. "Whoever ordered the hit did their research. They knew I couldn't use magic and that I had a magical aura. The mercenaries were prepared for me."

"But only those within the royal guard would know about your inability to use magic." Dusty mused.

Each were drawing their own conclusions about who was responsible, each reaching similar conclusions no matter how much they didn't want to believe it. Scutellum was the first to give it voice: "Could it be the princesses?"

None had particular counter to the argument, but Somnia wasn't convinced. "I don't want to make any moves based on a maybe. If it was them, then we'll have a much bigger problem to deal with."

The entire time I've known them, it doesn't seem like them to take such drastic measures. Excalion cawed from the side table. Tia has done disharmonious things in Equestria's interests before, but it always was to preserve harmony in the future.

"Maybe you don't know them as well as you think." Dawn countered.

Shield aggressively pointed a hoof at his companion. "Don't doubt their devotion to Equestria! It wasn't them!"

"Aren't you a bit biased?" Scutellum raised a brow. "You've served in the guard for how long? Decades?"

"Eighteen and a half years, and if anypony knew what Celestia is like, it would be me!"

"This is getting us nowhere." Somnia sighed. "We're missing information. My dreams haven't been too helpful on that front."

"What about the prisoner?" Dusty raised a hoof. "They might have a better idea."

"They were a nopony." The filly groaned. "Recruited by the old mercenary leader and not the employer, if she was telling the truth."

"We can--" Scutellum was cut off as Somnia glared at him.

"No torture. She was the only one that seemed to actually feel bad for me, she doesn't deserve to be hurt."

"Kid, are you sure?" Dawn grabbed her hoof, squeezing it while gently looking into her wet eyes. "She allowed it to happen, she's as guilty as they are."

"Don't question my orders, Broken Dawn." She sternly said, driving the point home and taking all four of her guards aback. "I'll talk to her when I'm better. I want you to keep her in the basement of the library, locked in a cage I can open on my own."

"Sounds like a repeat of what you did with me." Scutellum commented, somewhat approvingly. "Have plans for her beyond merely getting information?"

"Get out." Somnia pointed to the door annoyed. "All of you."

Her guards filed from the room, all slightly confused at the shift in attitude. Laying her head back onto the pillow, she closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths.

That could have gone better. Excalion hopped onto her bed. I can sense you aren't alright with what happened.

"Did you need your magic to deduce that?" She mumbled sarcastically.

We've known each other for years, Som. What's really bothering you?

"I'm useless." She whispered out, reopening her eyes to stare down at the bird. "I can't do anything on my own."

You know that to be false, my filly. You gave the citizens of Hollow Shades hope for a brighter future, one where their lives will be better. Does that mean nothing to you?

"Grar did it!" She yelled back angrily, tears running down her cheeks. "He repealed two layers of those magical protection things so that I would overwhelm their emotions! All I've done on my own was torment two fillies! I'm nothing without my magic!"

The crow tilted its head. Were you not the one who convinced Shattershield to make the Queen's Guard? Did you forget about getting Hollow Shades to compete in the Equestria Games? How about those potions you've been making? Those schematics you've been scribbling in your spare time? Reuniting your parents? Are you really nothing without your magic?

This time you failed, but it doesn't discredit what you can do without it.

"Nopony else seems to think so." She grumbled, pulling the sheet over her head.

And why do you care about what they believe? You haven't before, so why now?

"I don't want to be like grandma!" She threw off the sheet and swiped at the crow, her hoof passing through it harmlessly. "I don't want to be--"

Disharmonious? Excalion answered, hopping a bit closer. You may be the Grand Councilor of Harmony, but that is merely a title. I understand your reluctance to engage in distasteful acts, but sometimes it is necessary. Remember what Grogar had told you? 'Ours is not the path of Ascension, for we are forsaken'? Your life isn't ordinary, Somnia. It never will be. The tenets of the Cyclical Truth aren't meant for somepony like you or I.

I made that conclusion when I was brought forward by the Prophet. There was little doubt in my mind about what I would be sacrificing in order to serve their will. I could have refused, almost did, but I knew it was the right thing to do in my heart. They didn't need magic to convince me, they didn't even use any. They gave me a choice like you have given your Queen's Guard.

Somnia laid back on her pillow while Excalion continued, mulling it over. I followed them because of what they represented: A brighter future. One that you now represent for many others. You are intelligent, and possess more magical potential than any other creature, yet are still flawed. What you are is a solution to the problem of forever, an example of what life could be. The other Grand Councillors failed in their duties because they didn't understand their intrinsic flaws, all except for a few even understood they had failed.

The Prophet recognized their flaws early, which is why they still live. The Fallen Councilor couldn't kill them because they still felt something. Same as why you currently live, because you feel. All the pain, the doubts, the fear, love, joy, sadness, it makes you who you are. The real magic is in the lessons of harmony and disharmony, not one or the other.

And I know you will never surrender as long as you still have hope.

"There isn't any hope for me." Somnia whimpered back. "Ponies keep expecting things from me, but I don't care. I just want to live a normal life, I don't want to be their hope. I-I just want to be me, but I can't do that since Grar did that bucking experiment. I want it to stop. I don't want to keep having my friends die, I don't want to keep seeing my family hurt because of me. I-I don't want to keep hurting l-like this. I-I--" She choked on her tears. "I-I w-want to be free."

A knife was summoned to in front of Somnia, laying against the sheets within grabbing distance. Then make your choice, but know we all look to you. To us, you are our beacon of hope. You can discover yours, or you can end it now. You have a choice, more than anypony else, my little filly. The bird flew over to the door and phased though it to leave her alone.

Picking up the knife, Somnia examined it. It was incredibly sharp, easy enough to slit her throat in a single motion. In seconds, she would bleed out. It would be quick, relatively painless, and nopony was around to stop her. Closing her eyes, she brought the knife to her throat. She could feel it against her fur, its cold metal sending shivers along her body.

It would be over as sooner than even the weakest dick mercenaries raping her. She bit her lip then took a deep breath, cutting her neck slightly from the slight change in pressure and drawing some blood. One motion, that's all it would take.

One motion, and all the pain would go away. Nopony could tell her what to do. Nopony could give their opinion about what was wrong with her. Nopony could take her body for themselves. Her life would be in her hooves, wholly and utterly. Now, and forever.

...

So why didn't the motion come?

Flying through the doorway into Twilight's room after speaking to the Queen's Guard, Excalion perched herself atop Rarity's horn and listened to their discussion. It wouldn't take long for Somnia to make her choice, and she knew that Somnia would make the right one. She closed her eye and swayed atop the horn, listening to her own memories of the past.

There was nothing more she could do except wait. Her old life, her old family, the look on her daughter's face when she graduated from the academy, the sorrow when she had to leave that life behind. The pain when her daughter was told that she would never see her mom again, how they held onto one another for literal days just to maximize the time before she had to leave to fulfill her destiny, possibly never to be heard from again. Excalion wanted nothing more than to see her daughter one final time before the end of everything, to hear how her life has gone since she left.

"Sweetie ended up stitching in Sapphire Shores' lucky animal into the headdress as forgiveness. It was awful what she had done, but I couldn't stay mad at her after she apologized the way she did." Rarity concluded her story.

"It's good to hear that everything worked out well." Twilight gently smiled to her as the doctor opened the door slightly. "Is something wrong, doctor?"

"You have a visitor." He smiled back, pushing open the door fully to reveal Somnia in a wheelchair. She gave a small wave to her mother while the other elements took in the severity of her injuries, a blanket covering her lower half.

"Somnia!" She motioned the doctor to roll the filly closer. "What are you doing out of bed?"

"I wanted to come see you." The filly turned her head to Excalion, offering a heartfelt smile. "And to thank her."

"Me?" Rarity asked confused. "Whatever could I have done?"

Not you. The crow flew over to the bed. And you are certainly welcome, Som.

"It's good to see you are in a better mood than you were earlier." Twilight rubbed Somnia's cheek, tilting her head slightly, noticing the slight line along her throat. "Is that new?"

"It's nothing." The filly grabbed her mother's hoof with both of hers. "I'm just glad to be back."

"Want us to have the crusaders over when you get out of the hospital?" Applejack asked, readjusting her stetson.

"Actually, I would like to recover a bit more before seeing anypony. The bruises aren't a very nice sight." She giggled, having returned to her old self.

Or at least that's what Twilight hoped.

Chapter 17: Fallen

Tia, what happened?

It's nothing serious. No need to--

NO! We are the rulers of Equestria! Together! If you know something happened that--

Lulu, please--

Don't Lulu me! What happened?!

...Nothing good...

Somnia sighed. It had been four days since her stay at the hospital, but nothing could get her used to this. Sitting up in bed, she checked for any blood this time, but with only the wettened spot it seemed the healing magic had worked its... well, magic.

"Somnia?" Twilight sat up in her own bed across from her, eyes baggy. "Another nightmare?"

"Yeah..." She admitted. "Sheets will need to be washed again."

Twilight bit her lip. The filly wouldn't say it, and nopony else who did know would, but the bed wetting practically proved what happened. The first time she thought it might have been excess blood from internal injuries, but the second and third time...

The cast on her daughter's horn was obtrusive, but it was better than for it to get caught on her mane while it repaired. Her wings also still needed to regrow the lost feathers, and many of her bruises still were visible, but her teeth and cuts were all healed up with the best healing magic on offer, several doctors having traveled from Canterlot to Ponyville General Hospital to work their magic. It somewhat perturbed her when she watched them cheerfully enter Somnia's hospital room during those three days to only leave looking like they saw a ghost after finishing their work. Maybe it was Excalion staying by Somnia's side the entire time, she wouldn't doubt that the strange crow would spook them. Either that, or they were threatened into silence, as they refused to even talk to Twilight after the procedures.

With a fourth guard, the shifts were also now overlapping, meaning there would be two guards available to protect her at a moment's notice during one of the four-hour windows of single guard protection. They adjusted their protocols to inform the other guards immediately if something were to happen, and Somnia herself had been given a communication node so she could give warning if her attending guard was preoccupied. There would never be a repeat of the foalnapping, and they all vowed to never let Somnia go outside without supervision in one form or another.

"Do you want to go for a walk?" Twilight asked gently. "I'll come with you, if you want."

"Yeah, okay." The filly got out of bed, stretching out her legs. Two had fractures in the bones that were healed with magic, but they still needed stressing to heal properly. Getting out of her own bed, Twilight threw Somnia's sheets in the now permanent linen basket and replaced them with fresh ones she kept in what formerly was the 'restricted section' of the library. Spike also had been moved to the lower level since Somnia was having trouble sleeping and would often get up during the night to go onto the balcony.

The two left the library, Scutellum and Dawn joining them as they walked through the very early morning Ponyville. Nopony was out at this time, except for maybe the rare party-goer stumbling their way home. The filly was silent as they walked, her head turned mostly towards the ground in thought. Between the frequent daytime crying and longing looks over the edge of the tree balcony, Twilight's heart kept breaking for her daughter. Somnia absolutely refused to cry into her mother's shoulder, even refusing hugs when she was in one of her breakdowns or panic attacks. There was nothing Twilight could do except help where she can, but even then it didn't feel like enough.

"So... read any good books?" Twilight forcefully smiled down to her daughter.

"Yeah. Read about the history of Griffonia. Seems they have some religious reverence in a 'Boreas', or whatever." The filly tiredly answered. "They used to have a grand duchy that stretched the entire continent, but it seems that is forgotten too."

"Do you miss Excalicorn?" Twilight asked, feeling what the answer was going to be.

"Yeah..." Somnia admitted. "It isn't so bad once you see how far things could fall."

"Can you give me some examples?"

"See these lights?" She pointed to a building-mounted lamp. "What's in them?"

"Light-bulbs?" Twilight wasn't sure where this was headed.

"We used insulated energy currents on an isolated loop to produce photons directly rather than through excess photonic radiation done by heating metal." Twilight blinked in confusion as she pointed to a cart that had been left out. "You are still using manual pony-power to carry goods around, we had publicly available magi-tech carts capable of carrying nearly ten times that cart with no need to manually pull it." She pointed towards the train tracks, or the direction the station would be, anyway. "You barely have steam engines powered by mostly magic, we had rockets that went to the moon and back without any need for magic."

Twilight could only continue blinking as she processed what her daughter just said. That was... "That's amazing." She grinned excitedly. "Did you know anypony that had gone to the moon?"

"You!" She poked Twilight's chest angrily, forcing her mother to step back in shock. "You went to the moon to oversee the lunar colony! For nearly a year I waited for you to get back!"

She winced at the hurt look on Somnia's face, both of them starting to form tears in the corners of their eyes. "I-I'm sorry."

Twilight, you need to understand that there is more to technology than what you currently see. Your society has the basics of electronics and industrialization, but makes so little use of it that it is being functionally wasted. It is hardly present outside of the major population centers meaning a national collapse could send you back to pre-industrial times. Grar spoke up.

"But we don't need all of that. We're peaceful how we are."

"And you will lose it if nothing happens! Equestria is run by two sisters who would do anything secure their power and an aristocratic class that wants to keep the population in line! How do you expect to maintain the status-quo when a truly strong enemy comes over the ocean? Make use of your limited resources and artifacts?" She grabbed Twilight's face. "We had tools on par with the Elements of Harmony for crowd control. Our curriculum had mandatory magic training for all unicorns, changelings, and kirin, including defensive magic. Everypony knew how to defend themselves because the world is a dangerous place!"

"Equestria isn't--"

"I was foalnapped and tortured, and you are seriously going to tell me that Equestria isn't like that? Two ponies were with that merc gang. Two! The only reason there wasn't more was because your society is built around harmony compared to the griffon's. We had both. Harmony, and supremacy. We do what we have need to in order to survive, thrive, and be free!"

"For life everlasting against forever..." Twilight idly repeated the phrase from the speech in Hollow Shades, drawing the connection. "Where did that come from?"

It is a segment of the Grand Council's Oath. Three principals to guide an intelligent society towards Ascension. The full oath covers the duties and responsibilities of the Grand Council. Excalion and I had built the Harmonic Empire from the example set by the Cyclical Union, a multi-dimensional inter-universal alliance of the ascendant species. Or at least it was before the War of the Fallen.

"You can't live in ignorance forever." Somnia continued. "Threats will rise to crush you if you do not act first. Nopony is safe until there is nothing else to threaten society from collapsing."

"That's not our way." Twilight shook her head, pushing the filly a bit away from her. "Our society--"

Is dying. Look around you. What do you see? A society that is slowly sliding backwards because it refuses to move forward. You use resources wastefully because you believe that your magic will last forever, but it won't. Ponies are fearful of advancing too quickly, but they are failing to realize that is the only way to prevent societal decay. By refusing to move forward, you ensure that threats will rise to destroy you that are outside of your ability to compensate. For every successful unique space-faring species, there are a million that never make it past the industrial revolution, and another ten-thousand that die out just as they are reaching the space-faring cycle.

The princess furrowed her brow, thinking about what they were saying and not quite grasping the scale of her ignorance. She looked around the empty streets, the market just down the way. "What did ponies do when they had so much technology?"

"They lived! Some chose to work, not because it was needed, but because they wanted to! The Imperial Military was considered the highest calling for any pony, and the ponies who joined were celebrated as heroes! The minotaur rebellions showed exactly that! We lost just over one hundred soldiers during the war, while they lost over a hundred-thousand! And all of ours were because of militant activity after we crushed them to the point they needed to surrender to survive!"

"Ponies faced down minotaurs? Alone?" Twilight couldn't believe it. The scale of that conflict must have been gargantuan, if only because of the minotaur loses.

"Powered armor with highly trained soldiers taught to kill." She let it sink in. "We were the undisputed masters of Equus, and every creature knew it! You see this?" She pointed to Twilight's splint. "You'd have been healed that very day with little use of magic! That's what an advanced society is like! How home was!"

"Then how did you fall?" She had to ask. "If you had so much power, how could you fall?"

"The universe is a dangerous place, and we experienced it first-hoof! What wiped us out won't stop until Life and Reality are destroyed!" The filly took a deep breath, calming herself down. "Societies more advanced than Excalicorn are wiped out on-mass by such creatures. Nowadays, there's nothing that can be done to stop them when they arrive, only to contain them after the fact."

Unless the Grand Council is re-established. Even a single Grand Councilor with full capability can stop them from breaching reality entirely. That is why Somnia's survival is so important, and why I am willing to do anything to ensure it happens. Including sacrificing my own life.

"To the deepest pits of Tartarus and back." Dawn spoke up from behind them.

"For Life and Reality." Scutellum added.

Somnia finished by staring into her mother's eyes, a fire burning within Twilight had never seen in her before. "We will never surrender, because we can't! We fight, or we die!"

Scribbling on the design paper, Somnia bit the tip on her pencil. Another mistake that needs to be erased.

It doesn't need to be perfect. It isn't rocket science.

"Rocket science is easy, armor design is hard." She erased the small error in the plate alignment. "Do you know how we're going to get the helmets to work?"

I would like to avoid using magic, if possible. That leaves a physical helmet that has to be removed. Either hardened magnetic or vacuum seal.

"Hmm..." She put down her pencil, taking a look across the lab. The entire area beneath Golden Oaks Library had been repurposed for her use. After Shield had helped to bring back the remaining alchemy and enchanting supplies, Somnia had requested certain specialty materials, paid for by the royal treasury. The library was too small to make the nuclear reactor that Grar had suggested, so a magi-kinetic reactor would have to suffice.

Getting up from her chair, she went over to the cage containing their prisoner. They wouldn't know anything that the Queen's Guard or Somnia didn't already know about the foalnapping, but the filly had other plans for her.

"Ready to let me go?" The griffoness sat up on her cot that was generously provided by the local garrison.

"Not until you are ready." Somnia picked up the color palettes she grabbed from the market, holding them up. "Light blue and gold, or pinkish and silver?"

She laid back down disappointed, grumbling: "Doesn't matter to me. I'm not going to be wearing them."

"You know, you were actually pretty nice compared to the others." Somnia put the palettes back down on the small table next to the cage. "Why did you get into mercenary work?"

"Needed the bits." She shrugged. "Nothing much more to it than that."

"There's a lot of ways to get bits that don't involve foalnapping ponies." The filly walked to the bars, tracing them with her hoof.

"Bits are bits." She got up fully, walking over to the filly. "What do you want from me? What do you expect? You haven't asked me anything of relevance to the foalnapping or to my previous work since I was put in here."

"I want to know who you really are." Somnia turned away, looking over her shoulder. "Why you would associate with creatures that would beat and rape fillies."

"I never chose to be assigned with them! I took the job because it was enough to live on until I died of old age!" She growled back, straightening herself up defensively at the insinuation. "If I had a choice, I'd have turned it down if I had known what they were going to do to you!"

The filly hummed before walking back to her design table to continue with the armor design. Got the measurements, Grar?

Within a respectable margin.

The next two hours she worked tirelessly on getting the design correct. The helmets and wing guards would come later, but the armor from paws and claws to the neck was more-or-less complete. Rolling it up, she brought it over to the cage and pushed it through the bars. "Do you like it?"

Lovisa picked it up without getting out of bed, unrolling it and staring at the design. Somnia explained. "You see, I've been thinking about a few things. Four guards is good, but five is better. Properly equipped, they could handle most tasks I would ask of them. You didn't have to kill that other mercenary, but you did it because you thought it was the right thing to do. The rest of my guards are with me because they believe I will do the right things, and they want to be a part of that."

"Are you... inviting me to be a royal guard?!" She sat up wide eyed, still examining the design.

"It's a reliable way to make bits, and only carries some of the dangers of mercenary work. Legal protections, full pension upon retirement, serving a greater cause, etc etc." She waved her hoof dismissively. "You get the point. I'll let you think about it for a few days. If you don't want to, I'll turn you over to the royal guard in Canterlot to be indicted for foalnapping and conspiracy charges to bring harm to royalty, rape, foal abuse, and a few other things that you are guilty of based on your mercenary profile. Probably will serve the rest of your life in prison, maybe leaving when you are an old bird who's losing their feathers."

"That's not really much of a choice." Lovisa glared at the filly from behind the design. "I'm damned if I don't accept this."

"So were all the others." Somnia smiled to her, walking back to her design table to begin work on the helmets. Five unique designs were needed since each creature had differences on their head. Manes would also need to be accounted for and horns needed additional protections.

Before getting down to business, she yelled out one last thing: "You always have a choice, even if it isn't always equal. I'm giving you a chance to start over. Don't waste it."

"Somnia, what's this for?" Twilight examined the invoice request.

"It's materials I need to make the new guard armor! They need the very best if they're going to protect me." She stated proudly.

"It's over a hundred-thousand bits." Twilight deadpanned.

"Some them are very rare metals, or I have to have them imported from overseas. It's not my fault Equestria isn't industrialized." The filly smirked.

"And who are you planning to make this armor?"

"Me!" She confidently proclaimed. "Grar has been showing me how to use the equipment downstairs and I'm certain I can get it done within a few months if I can get the materials in the next two weeks."

"Uh huh. And it's just armor?"

"A few other bits of equipment too." She admitted, turning away shyly. "Concealed weapons mostly. It's not for me since you told me not to carry around weapons."

"I'll... consider it." She put the invoice down on the table, wondering if Somnia might have some insight into the problem she was dealing with. "How do you study for things?"

Twilight, she's a genius. You show her a book and she'll be able to memorize it word-for-word if she really wants to. I've been teaching her the past few days how to build a magi-kinetic reactor and the fundamentals of armor design, and she's almost ready to jump right into it without my input. Practical, theoretical, doesn't matter. Motivation matters most to her.

"What about for tests? Doesn't she need to memorize facts and statistics?"

"The population of Excalicorn around the time of the fall was 26,475,000 within a low margin of error, with the population divided between the 7,427,000 pegasi, 6,903,000 earthlites, 5,173,000 unicorns, 2,844,000 thestrals, 2,393,000 changelings, 1,385,000 zebras, 129,000 alicorns, 126,000 hippocampi, 93,000 kirin, and about 2,000 of other species." She stated with absolute certainty.

"Grar, no helping!" Twilight chastised.

That was all her. And she's correct about the census data from the city.

"Wait... The city? As in Excalicorn was a single city?!" Twilight eyes widened in disbelief.

"That's what industrialization allows." Somnia cuddled against her. "The inner city only had alicorns though, and the seaponies lived along the coastal section in their underwater habitats. Do you want to know more? I know a looooot about it."

"I-I'm good." Twilight patted her on the head. "Exactly how large was the city in area?"

"Hmm..." She tried thinking of a metric that would be appropriate. The maps of Equestria were horrendous when it came to scale of the distances. "From here to Canterlot and back at least?"

Twilight fell to her flanks, her mind finally folding. "Equestria's population is only 24 million and even more than that fit into such a small area?!"

"The continent of Excalicorn had a population of 628 million-ish?" The filly tried thinking back but couldn't remember the thousands. "The Harmonic Empire had over 2 billion intelligent creatures, half of which were ponies and most of the rest were griffons. Changelings consisted of a three-hundred million on their own, making them the most populous other than the griffons."

"Wow..." Twilight considered the ramifications of having that many ponies living in such close proximity, the only relevant example being Manehattan at just over three million. Equestria was pretty sparsely populated compared to Griffonia, which shouldn't be the case when you compare a comparatively smaller country to an entire continent. But Excalicorn...

And all those ponies were dead.

"When you don't want to build horizontally, you build up and down. Excalion's Tower was higher than Mount Canterhorn and larger than the city of Canterlot. Only a few ponies lived within, though." She added, just to drive the point home. "I told you. We were soooo much further along than Equestria."

"I need to write this down." Twilight trotted over to the drawers of spare supplies, taking out a few pieces of paper and pens. "Do you think the city is still standing?"

Physically, somewhat. Socially, it is long dead. All you'll find are bones and ruins if you wish to travel into the unknown to seek it out. Whatever it was, it is now a grim reminder of the sacrifice Excalion and I made for all life.

"Do you think any of the books survived?" She grinned over hopeful.

Entire hard-copy libraries most likely survived, but even they pale in comparison to the treasures within Excalion's Tower.

"Yeah, Excalion kinda told us what was left." Somnia admitted. "Nopony even lives on the continent anymore."

"If there is untold amounts of knowledge within, wouldn't it be worth it to seek it out?" Twilight trotted over to Somnia, who wasn't so sure about it, raising her head with a hoof. "Equestria would be launched into a golden age!"

Twilight, there are still void entities roaming the continent. Any hopes of crossing it would come at great peril, let alone getting there through the dangerous winterbound territory that is the Chillrend Mountains.

"You mean the Windi--" Somnia covered her mouth, the glare she was giving told her not to dare say the name of the creatures. "Right." She put Somnia's hooves back on the ground. "Yeah, I can see how it would be difficult to get there. I mean, I've never been outside of Equestria." She snorted, still a little disappointed about not being able to read those ancient yet advanced books.

"You can help me downstairs if you really want to learn about some of the stuff we had." Somnia suggested, slyly grinning back up at her mother. "I need supplies though."

Twilight smiled back to her, heart fluttering. "I'd like that a lot."

Trotting back up to the main floor, Somnia eyed the visitors with suspicion. Her mother was out of the house helping Rainbow Dash with some sort of test so she decided to stay behind in order to continue disassembling the machinery downstairs. Dusty had received advanced warning from Shield about who he was returning from Canterlot with, Scutellum, Dusty, and Shield all staying close to the library in case they tried something.

"It is so good to see you doing well in the wake of your traumatic experience." Celestia gently smiled down to the filly. "How are you feeling?"

"Fine." Somnia turned to Luna who was trying and barely succeeding at holding back her emotions.

"I know you must be quite busy with your projects and recovery, but there are some things that we need to deal with." Celestia's smile dropped a bit.

"And why can't you handle it alone?" Somnia returned, standing firmly.

"Your speech in Hollow Shades hasn't gone unnoticed. It is now indisputable that you were the cause of the outbursts. The increased thestral activity has also caused some concern near bordering towns, sending panic through the papers that you are planning some sort of rebellion using the plight of the thestrals as a cover." She popped up a few newspapers in front of the filly. "These were the original papers before we had them recalled."

'QUEEN SOMNIA?: THESTRALS on the move'

'POLITICAL INSTABILITY: The SHADOW WAR among the PRINCESSES'

'MAGIC BURSTS linked to PRINCESS SOMNIA'

"As you can see, the news picked up on it quickly. The train to Hollow Shades has been swarming with reporters seeking comment from the residents, which they are all too happy to give." She placed the papers down on the table, looking at the filly sadly. "I don't want the ponies of Equestria to think something bad is going to happen, nor do I want them to choose sides. I would like to call a press conference to address these concerns, but you need to be there."

Somnia tapped at the floor, thinking about it. "Yeah, you're right." She admitted. "When do you want to do it?"

"Before the Equestria Games. I was thinking while the Foal and Filly Fair was going on here in Ponyville, so that you do not miss out on the Rainbow Falls Traders Exchange or the Equestria Games. Everypony needs to know that we are united in purpose: For their peace and protection."

"Fine. I want to be home before the end though."

"Deal." Celestia gently smiled. "Please try not to cause anymore crises in the meantime. Ponies can only handle so much breaking news."

"They're stronger than you give them credit for." Somnia rolled her eyes. "Was there anything else you wanted?"

Celestia paused, briefly turning to her sister. "No, that was all." She nodded. "See you in a few days."

The filly stood firmly as she watched the sisters leave, Luna casting one last saddened glance back to Somnia before exiting completely. She didn't know if her cousin just felt bad about what happened, or if she was regretting being responsible for it. It was difficult to tell. Either way, they both were on Somnia's suspect list along with the entire Noble's Council and Blueblood.

Returning to downstairs, she sat at her worktable, putting her goggles and mask back on. The electronics were crude, barely fit for number-crunching. From the design of the machine, it was meant to measure brainwaves and magical fluctuations for a target wearing the makeshift helmet. While on its own it served its purpose, it was also very simplistic.

The metals from the electronic scraps would be useful in the production of more precise boards for the computation device she had planned. She needed something capable of automation in order to produce even more precise processors, but that would need to be programmed. Her objective for the next month was to produce a forge capable of melting the metals she would be using for the armor plates. To actually use it she'd have to take it outside, but simply having it was a massive step forward.

"Who was that?" Lovisa asked from her cage.

"Two ponies that think they know what is best for Equestria." Somnia took off her protective wear and trotted over. "Hungry?"

"A little." The filly trotted to the side table and unwrapped an energy bar, passing it through the bars for Lovisa to grab. "Thanks."

"You're welcome." Somnia went back to her worktable, took one look at it, and then trotted over to her design table.

"I thought I was going to be tortured and interrogated for information when I woke up in the hospital." Lovisa bit the bar, taking half of it in the single bite.

"If I can get the information without somepony getting hurt, then I'll do that." Somnia sighed. "I don't want to see anypony hurt, but sometimes that is necessary or justifiable. You know none of the other mercenaries lived, right?"

Lovisa shook her head. "Find that reddish bitch too?"

"Well, no." She tilted her head to the side. "I'm not going to seek revenge on them. They left before the worst of it, even if they didn't stand against the others."

"Heh, better than she would have done for you." Lovisa threw the rest of the bar into her mouth, chewing it.

"I'm not her. I'm me." The filly stated. "I'm not going to compromise who I am by doing disharmonious things without excellent reason."

"I hope you find whoever ordered that job. I'm sure they'll appreciate your mercy." Lovisa chuckled, sitting down on her cot.

Somnia gritted her teeth. "They'll receive their punishment, eventually. But until then, it helps nopony to dwell on it."

"You're stronger than I gave you credit for." The griffoness leaned against the bars to her cage, stretched out on her bed. "I would probably still be huddled up on my bed if what happened to you happened to me."

"I can't afford to let myself go. I need to keep going, no matter what happens or how much it hurts." Somnia wiped her eyes, her hoof shaking as she began her breathing exercises.

"I can respect that."

"Somnia! You've got visitors!"

"Be up in a minute!" Somnia yelled back, finishing the curves on the horn armor design. She made good progress on the helmets, even going back to the main armor designs and redoing the back. It would be more work, but it would serve her better if the guards had a tactical HUD through their helmets and temperature-regulated armor. Requires a highly complicated and compact version of the magi-kinetic reactor, but was doable without industrial-scale equipment if she made the proper adjustments to other parts.

She grabbed her invoice sheet and trotted up the stairs to where the crusaders were waiting patiently, practicing a bit with their projects for 'Twilight Time'. Turning to face Somnia, their faces were etched with concern at the sight of her still wounded form.

"Good to see you again!" Somnia smiled to them, passing the paper to her mother. "This is also needed. Made some changes to the designs."

"This is... more manageable? What's this for?" She looked over the sheet.

"Electronics mostly. I want to give my guards the best fighting chance!" She squee'd, trotting over to the crusaders. "How are all of you doing? I heard you've had a busy week."

"Yeah, seems you did too." Scootaloo poked at the cast atop Somnia's head, getting a wince out of her. "Something wrong with your horn?"

"It was a bit damaged." Somnia pushed away Scootaloo's hoof. "Needs time to heal."

"Looks like you got into a fight ya couldn't win." Apple Bloom commented.

"Are you feeling alright? I-I mean, are you feeling better?" Sweetie asked concerned.

"Better, yes." Somnia nodded. "They weren't exactly gentle, if you couldn't tell. A few cracked bones, bruises, chips from my horn, primaries pulled..."

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle shuddered while Apple Bloom asked. "Ya sure yer alright?"

"Yup!" She put a hoof around Apple Bloom's withers, poking her chest with the other. "Need somepony to talk to?"

"Wha...?"Apple Bloom looked into her bruised eyes as Somnia shifted them to Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

"Get up to anything interesting lately?" She smiled happily, switching the topic.

"Oh, yeah!" Scootaloo resumed her happy attitude. "We saw Sapphire Shores and Apple Bloom defeated a chimera!"

"Huh? No ah didn't." Apple Bloom denied. "Applejack did! I just got the pies past it."

"Yeah, but you managed to get through the entire fire swamp by yourself!"

"Trust me, it's not all that impressive." Apple Bloom smiled to Somnia who let go of her to join their little banter circle. "Prob'ly not even half of what you did to get those black-eyes."

"Don't count yourself out. You're braver than a lot of other ponies I've met." Somnia looked between the crusaders, expression going serious. "All of you are. You just need some experience to show your full potential."

"So how did you get those black-eyes?" Scootaloo asked curiously.

Somnia swallowed. "I signaled my guards to my location. The mercenaries didn't like that very much. It wasn't a heroic act, I was just saving myself."

"Oh..." Sweetie muttered, a bit saddened. "I'm sorry you had to go through that."

"Nothing permanent. I'll be able to fly and use my magic, whenever I can actually use them." She giggled. "It is nice to see you all again though. I missed being around friendly faces."

"We're glad to see you're doing fine after what happened." Sweetie smiled back. "We were on our way back home and decided to stop in to see how you were. Sorry we didn't come by sooner."

"It's no problem, really. I've had a lot to occupy me the past few days. Oh, right!" Somnia trotted over to a shelf where she placed a bag earlier, grabbing it in her mouth and placing it gently onto the floor between them. "These are for you! Pour the packet into the flask, stir, and drink! It's better than coffee at waking you up! Helps when pulling all-nighters!"

"Hey! I thought you said you couldn't make it without it going bad?" Twilight squinted at her daughter from across the room.

"I found a way to package it without losing its qualities over time! Sure, leave it a year and the base will go bad, but as long as the packet is dry then it can be reused as long as you make more base." Somnia slyly grinned. "It's also not as strong. Had to cut back on certain ingredients since they caused it to catalyze." She turned back to the crusaders. "It'll last for three days after you make it, so feel free to take it for a particularly stressful time at school."

"Wow, thanks, Somnia!" Apple Bloom looked into the bag. "Can you teach me how to make this?"

"Sure! But it requires some ingredients from the Everfree Forest to make, and I only had enough for three packets."

"I'll ask Applejack if I can go in there. Don't worry, ah'm sure I'll be able to come with you."

"Do you know how to build mechanical stuff?" Scootaloo asked hopeful.

"Need something fixed?" She raised a brow, smiling at the orange pegasus. "I could make you a pair of retractable gliders for you wings with the right materials, and teach you how to maintain them. Good for gliding, not so much flying."

"I-I can glide?!" Scootaloo hugged her while her wings fluttered. "Please please, pretty please?"

"No worries." Somnia winked to her mother. "Anything I can help you with, Sweetie?"

"Well... Your horn doesn't work, so I don't think you can help me with my magic." She regretfully said.

"I got enchanting stuff downstairs. I could show you thaumaturgy."

"That..." Sweetie squealed in delight. "Yes! Please?"

"Looks like Twilight Time is going to become Somnia Time." Twilight giggled. "I'll schedule it the next time she's available. The next week is going to be very busy with the Rainbow Falls Traders Exchange, Foal and Filly Fair, and the Equestria Games."

"Thanks again, Somnia!" Scootaloo waved back to her as Apple Bloom grabbed the bag Somnia gave them. Once they were gone, Twilight motioned for Somnia to follow her into the basement.

They sat down in front of the cage with their prisoner, offering her some iced tea via a straw, although she politely declined while she rested her eyes. "You were going to tell me what you were doing?"

"Oh!" Somnia trotted over to her design table and grabbed a roll to bring back over. "This is what I have for the computer. It should be sufficient for rudimentary code construction which we can use to make the next generation for even more advanced protocols."

Twilight examined the schematics. Computing was generally outside of her field of expertise, she was used to circuit boards, but this was a completely different beast. "It doesn't use magic?"

"Nope! Completely physical!" Somnia scooted closer and drew her mother's eyes to a particular section. "This is the connector I've been designing for the helmets. The actual design is over there somewhere," she waved towards her design table and the two dozen large sheets of paper rolled up next to it, "but the basic principle is that it accepts photonic currents then converts it into electricity. In the event of power failure, the last bit of energy is buffered to initiate any backup procedures the system may have."

"We don't have much electricity here." Twilight turned to her wearily. "How do you expect to get the needed energy for all of the things you're making?"

"The magi-kinetic reactor will be fine for the smelter and a few of the other things. I'll need something bigger if I want to make anything more advanced."

"How advanced?" Twilight was curious as to just how far Somnia was willing to go.

"I want to setup a production line for the smaller components." Somnia retrieved another roll. "It's just a rough sketch, but I think that automated production of electronics will give us even greater processing power. Next step would be automating the magical inputs to skip some of the technology requirements for atomic scale manufacturing."

"You were taught all of this from Grar?!" She stared at her daughter in shock.

"Pretty much." Somnia giggled. "He knows a lot more advanced stuff than I do. Eventually, I would like to get an infrastructure budget passed to unify the Equestrian electricity sector, powered by a few strategically located fusion reactors. Nopony will go without artificial light or refrigeration."

"That's..." Crazy? Incredible? "Ambitious? Don't you think it would be a good idea to start small?"

"Why? Equestria has all the technology except for the fusion reactors. This is just making sure everypony is connected. An infrastructure unification for the nation." Her eyes shimmered in wonder. "We can usher in a technological singularity for all of Equestria."

Twilight looked back over the designs, eyes still wide. "And this is safe? There isn't any negative side effects?"

"It's designed to be safe from the get-go. This isn't trial and error, these are deliberate steps taken to make sure it all works as intended." She pointed to a particular part on the schematic. "This is for line flexibility. We'll be able to reuse the arms on the machine to perform different tasks by swapping the 'hooves', and their omni-directional design provides maximized flexibility. We can even program them to switch 'hooves' mid-task if the line is too short to specialize them."

"He wasn't kidding." Twilight stared at her daughter's eyes, both with the same crazy wonder her friends commented about herself whenever she gets engrossed in a good book.

Why would I? I give her knowledge, she converts it into something usable. The only thing she could do with more is the experience to know what materials to use and how to get them. I assure you, she'll be able to think of things the Cyclical Union has that even I don't understand. Like the necessary designs to produce a point-to-point communications array that doesn't rely on magic.

"Oooo!" Somnia retrieved yet another scroll, unrolling in front of her mother. "This is a long-range communications device that doesn't make use of magic. Perfect for connecting the settlements around Equestria without actually sending somepony to deliver the message! We used them all the time in Excalicorn."

"It's... a telephone?"

"That's just it: It's wireless! Can be used anywhere there is a connection, which is provided by tall towers that can be setup around the country. And when we get into space..." She leaned in to whisper. "Anywhere on the surface of Equus."

Twilight shook her head, taking a few deep breaths. All of this was so much. If she didn't know any better, she'd think it was... "What about magic?"

"We could use magic to enhance the functions." Somnia considered it a moment. "We'd have to setup two different systems for some of these, and it would significantly complicate the electricity throughput, but I think I can put it together."

"Well, I'm lost. I don't even know where to start on any of this." Twilight admitted with a nervous chuckle, feeling a bit embarrassed her daughter was schooling her.

"I'll teach you as we build it!" Somnia hugged her. "It'll be nice to spend time with you on something we both like doing."

"I look forward to it." Twilight returned the embrace, smiling to herself. If Somnia's knowledge were to be published for all of Equestria, it would send the country into a golden age of progress and advancement, even without the texts from Excalicorn. There would still be those who would misuse such technology, a concern that bothered her more than seeing Equestria rapidly change from its influence.

Her mind returned to the 'minotaur rebellion' Somnia had mentioned. Just how far ahead was Excalicorn compared to the minotaurs? Did the minotaurs even stand a chance? Could they even start to understand the technology from their level of development?

Or was it too alien, even for them?

Chapter 18: Pieces

Throwing the sticks into the pit, Lovisa knelt down and began attempting to start a fire by rubbing two of the sticks together. "Come on, you piece of shit..."

After a minute of no progress, the griffoness went back over to the forest and gathered more tinder material. She grabbed two rocks in the hopes those would work better than the sticks.

Using the rocks to produce sparks, a fire caught which she very carefully nurtured until it became self-sustaining. Sitting next to the fire, she curled up and looked between the leaves to the stars.

She readjusted herself to stare into the fledgling fire, closing her eyes for a few minutes as she listened to the forest around her. The griffoness sniffled, getting up and breaking up the fire.

With renewed determination, she took off into flight back towards civilization. No sense roughing it in the woods if you can get a warm bed with your name on it.

Somnia shook her head at the Pinkie Pie shenanigans unfolding before her. Today was going to be a great day. Mom and dad get some time to spend alone, she gets to trade for rare materials, and Shield gets his chance to... 'convince' Lovisa to join the Queen's Guard. Everypony wins, especially her.

"It's just a formality. I'm sure none of the other ponies will even notice I'm here." Twilight confidently stated just before they exited the tunnel to the fairgrounds and a huge cheer came from the assembled crowd, unfurling a banner with Twilight's likeness on it.

"Could be wrong, but I think they might've noticed." Applejack quipped to Twilight, getting a nervous laugh in return. The group pushed there way through the crowd, Dusty leading the way. A few ponies backed away when Scutellum glared at them, easily dispersing the crowd as the guard presence began spooking ponies.

Putting a hoof to her ear, Somnia whispered her orders. "Dusty, with me. Dawn, I want you to patrol the fairgrounds and make sure the other elements are safe. Scuttle, disguise yourself and keep an eye on mom and dad." She smiled to the passing ponies as the group continued. Scutellum officially got his nickname while they were riding on the train, and it gave her a chance to think of one for Lovisa when she inevitably joined.

The group finally got free of any gawkers, giving them a chance to actually take a look at the stalls they passed by. Fluttershy stopped to examine a trader's stall with assorted knickknacks and whistles while Rarity tried on some hats. "Oh my goodness!"

"You said it. The Rainbow Falls Traders Exchange is simply divine. You can get anything you want here!"

"If'n you got the goods to trade for it." Applejack added.

Somnia trotted ahead a bit to look for a certain somepony that was supposed to be here. "Somnia, where are you going?" Twilight's voice came over the earpiece.

"Finding your husband." Somnia answered, resuming her trot as she smiled at the thestral that was leaning against the stall Twilight was to be trading books at. She waved to her father, trotting up to greet him. "Hi, dad!"

He looked around confused. "Me?" He playfully pointed to himself getting a groan and eye-roll from his nephew.

Somnia playfully hit his leg, getting a fake 'oww' out of the stallion while she dealt with her partner. "Hey, Nightwind! What are you looking for while you're here?"

"Food." He joked getting a giggle out of the filly, Twilight running up to the booth with her friends following behind.

"But all I'm supposed to do is settle disagreements over whether a trade is fair or not. And since the rule is that a trade is fair as long as both ponies get what they want, there's never been a disagreement. So there's really no reason for anypony to treat me as anything special." Twilight set down the two boxes she had brought onto the table table then took a breath, finally turning to Duskwing. "Hi, Duskwing. It's good to see you were able to come!"

"Wouldn't miss a date with a princess." He winked at her, a groan coming from Twilight. "Looks like you got a fan." He pointed behind her, the princess turning to the waiting filly.

"Hi! Can I help you?" The young filly pulled out a photo at which Twilight could only sigh before pulling out a pen from her mane to sign. Her signature was a mess, having not had much practice writing with her mouth since magic kindergarten. She was certainly getting better, but she desperately anticipated getting back her magic.

"Why don't you two run off and start looking for what you want?" Duskwing suggested to the foals.

"The bits?" Nightwind raised a brow, reminding his uncle of the deal.

"Right." He grabbed a small pouch from his saddlebag to pass it over. "Don't spend it all in one place!"

Somnia threw the bag into her own saddlebags, wedging it between two of the devices she produced for the fair. "Don't worry, I'll make sure I spend most of it!" The filly giggled, trotting away with her colt.

"Sorry about that, Duskwing. How are you doing?" Twilight turned back to him to offer a tired smile.

"Quite good now that you're here. Y'know, I was waiting a solid five minutes for you." He joked, patting the boxes Twilight had brought. "What are these?"

"Old books from the library. Princess Celestia has been sending me more books to read than ever and the library's overflowing, so I figured while I'm here, I might as well trade away some books I don't need anymore."

"Huh, neat." He opened up the box and began looking through the books.

"Interested in trading?" Twilight joked, grabbing the books from the box to start arranging them on the table. The doctor had recommended that she postpone using her horn as long as possible to make sure it healed properly, so she kept a magic suppression ring on it to prevent magical flow. It was embarrassing, but she wasn't going to compromise her health by slipping up while in recovery.

"Not really. All I got is this heirloom." He took a small bag from his saddlebag, dumping it's contents onto the table: A modest necklace with a crescent moon on the end. "It's from the Lunar Civil War a thousand years ago. Been passed down from generation to generation. I hoped to give it to a daughter of mine, but..."

"But?" Twilight got closer to examine it further. It was unusually heavy for its size, and it also seemed to be in prime condition even after a thousand years.

"Never had a marefriend for longer than a few months." He chuckled. "Didn't think I'd ever have a daughter."

"There's Somnia. She would appreciate it." Twilight smiled up to him. "It looks like an antique."

"Yeah, but I don't know if she's the sort for necklaces." He leaned against the table. "Maybe somepony else would like the relic."

"Well, you can use my booth to display it." Twilight hung it from the corner of a book. "If somepony wants it, they can have a book too."

"Sounds like a good deal when you put it like that." He shook his head smiling.

Somnia scanned over the jewelry, examining each one. Common gemstones, nothing magical. "Blegh."

"Blegh?" Nightwind looked at the jewelry. "Looks like its good quality to me."

"But not what I'm looking for!" Somnia trotted off to the next stall, a vendor with assorted doodads. "I'm looking for rare metals and useful gemstones, not jewelry!"

"Do you even know what a useful gemstone looks like?"

I do, and those aren't it.

"Who's that?" Nightwind looked around confused.

"My friend Grar." Somnia stated indifferently, scanning her eyes over the various objects carefully. "He's helping me."

"Where is he?" Nightwind examined a small gnome-pony at the stall. "Are they your pet?"

"No." Somnia pawed his leg. "He's in me. Can't go anywhere without him, literally."

"Uhh... right?" The colt wasn't sure to make of this strange filly. First meeting, she wanted to... do adult stuff. Second meeting, she has a ghost friend. What next? A magical talking pet crow?

"Hmmm..." Somnia examined a particular pony statuette with gems in its eyes. She reached back and took out a small contraption made of assorted gears. "Would you like to trade for that statue?"

"Let me see." The mare took the small gear object. "What is it?"

"Turn the knob at the top until you can't anymore, then let go and watch." Somnia smiled as they did just that. The entire collection of gears began forming up into a pony-shape, dancing a bit, before reversing back into their original pile of unrecognizable gears. "Whadda say?"

"Deal!" They shook hooves, Somnia grabbing the small statuette and trotting towards the next booth.

"So what's so special about that statue?" Nightwind had to ask. "Looked like all the others."

The filly stopped, turning to face him, stepping forward keeping eye contact. "The eyes. Certain high-mana crystals are used by craftsponies that can't tell the difference. Often smaller producers, locals to areas with potential surface-level veins. These gemstones are often small, but incredibly useful in miniaturized magical devices."

"R-Right?" He breathed out as the filly backed off from the less-than-a-hoof distance she made between them. Examining the next stall, she shook her head and moved on to the next without comment.

"What's it going to be used for?" He asked as she looked over a few assorted clothing items.

"One of the eyes is of sufficient quality for a flashlight I'm going to be making." Somnia picked up a hat, trying it on. "The other I'll melt down and use for transmission in that flashlight."

"What's special about that hat?" He asked.

She pouted. "Doesn't it look cute on me?"

"Y-Yes?" He didn't know if that was the right answer as she put it back and trotted to the next stall.

"So what happened to your horn?" Duskwing asked the question burning through the roof of his mouth. "The kid didn't look too good either with those black eyes."

Twilight sighed. She didn't know how much she should tell him. He was technically Somnia's father, but he was also so much of a stranger at the same time. "She was foalnapped..."

"Foalnapped?! When?!" He stood straighter. "Do you know who did it? Have they been arrested?"

"Not exactly..." Twilight rearranged one of the books on the table to delay it just a bit further.

"Not exactly?!" He stepped up to her. "Princess, if I'm going to be a good father to her, I need to know if she's in danger!"

"I know." Twilight sighed. "It's just it ended so... violently."

He stepped back to give her space to explain, which she did. "The Queen's Guard was searching for her while I kept quiet about the foalnapping in Ponyville. Nopony except my friends and the princesses knew she was missing until a few days ago. We didn't want to cause a stir and potentially lose her. Then that magical burst occurred from the Crystal Mountains. She signaled where she was but... they did that to her."

"How bad is it?" He asked concerned.

"Bad." Twilight closed her eyes against the tears. A hoof grabbed hers and brought her close, a wing wrapping around her while they sat next to the booth. "Horn was carved up, her primary feathers had been ripped out, many cracked ribs and other bones, and..." She choked back on her tears. "Th-They..."

"Shhhh..." He pet her mane. "Is she alright with what happened? She seems to be in good spirits."

"I-I don't know. She's been wetting the bed almost every night and spending most of her time locked in the basement with her projects..."

"So she hasn't told you that she needs somepony's help?" Twilight gazed up into his eyes, nodding. "Sounds like she went through Tartarus just to get back. If she was willing to go through all of that, she's one tough filly." He kissed Twilight's forehead. "You've raised one tough daughter."

"S-She was like that before..." Twilight countered weakly.

"Remember what you told me? WE were her parents before. WE raised her to be like that." He rubbed Twilight's opposite wing, making sure to hit just enough spots to provide comfort without arousing her. "I know you feel horrible for what happened, how she suffered when you were supposed to be watching her, but it isn't your fault for what happened."

The princess sighed, leaning her head into his shoulder and closing her eyes. She knew he was right, but it didn't make her feel any less guilty about not listening to Somnia when she wanted to protect herself. The only thing that did make her feel better was the stallion currently comforting her, getting her to lightly smile as she sunk into his warm embrace. This is nice... Is this what Cadance and Shining Armor feel when together?

"You gonna keep sitting there, or are you going to say something?" Lovisa annoyedly glared at the guard outside her cage. "Come on! You've been here for three hours just staring at me!"

Shield slowly blinked. Letting it sink in for her one last time. Taking a deep breath through his nose, he ignited his horn and 'unlocked' the cage, surprising the 'prisoner'. Stepping up to it, he opened it wide and backed away. The griffoness slowly approached the open door, making sure it wasn't some sort of trick before bolting from it and up the stairs. Shield calmly trotted after her, spotting her tail just outside the open door to outside.

Closing the front door of the library and moving up next to her, he took in the fresh air of the outdoors, closing his eyes.

"W-Where am I?" She asked quietly, looking around at the nearby buildings.

"Ponyville. Canterlot is about a six hour train ride from here." He opened his eyes and pointed in the direction of the mountain city. "Damn near in the center of Equestria."

Lovisa turned to the sign in front of the giant tree, then back to the captain. "I was kept in a library?"

"You were tricked into staying in the library." He corrected. "The lock only needed to be tugged free."

"What the fuck is wrong you ponies?!" She got into his face, now pissed off, which amused Shield to no end. "I was kept prisoner in a basement for nearly a week, only seeing those two alicorn bitches, and I could have left at any point?!"

"At least the bed was comfy." He chuckled, turning to glare into her eyes with a deadly seriousness. "Look around you. Does this look as bad as Featherbil?"

She took another look around, a single pony watching curiously from the side. It was calm, peaceful. She could hear foals in the distance playing without a care in the world, and some laughter spring up just down the street. The captain continued: "Pony society hasn't failed them like griffon society has. Your religious reverence of a mistaken deity dragged you into a state of perpetual war over legitimacy. Here, there is only one truth, that harmony is supreme, and everypony is capable of being harmonious. We've done better than any other nation on Equus, hundreds of years of mostly peaceful existence.

"Besides the rare foalnapping, Ponyville has been peaceful since I was transferred. There are more than a thousand other towns in Equestria with the same story as here. All of this was built because we had purpose. This is what we are offering you, if you choose to accept it. Bits may be able to buy you happiness, but they will never buy you fulfillment."

Lovisa shook her head and flew off without comment, getting a good look over Ponyville as she flew in the direction of the mountains. She had enough of this pony nonsense. What she needed was a map to get back to Griffonia then... what?

Where was she going to go? She was an independent operator who had just lost all her equipment. She had nothing. And there was nothing to go back to...

"Hmmmmmm..." Somnia scratched the bottom of the 'rusty' pan, eyeing it over. "And you're saying its the best pan for making pies quickly?"

"Quite right, little filly." The mare leaned on the counter. "Up to five seconds faster than any other!"

Taking out another one of her mechanical works, she looked over the pan a second time. Thermal dispersion properties from magically reinforced steel, discoloration mistaken as rust when in reality it was just the underlying tinting of siveria crystals.

"This is pretty neat, but what is it?" The vendor examined the small contraption.

"Pull it over your hoof." Somnia instructed, still thoroughly examining the crystal-metal alloy. It would be useful for the temperature regulation apparatus, cutting down the total cost by at least four thousand bits.

"Wooo, mama! This is sweet!" The mare flexed her hoof, causing the grip to close on the makeshift hand.

"Good for grabbing things where your hooves can't fit. You can adjust the finger length and spacing using the little knobs at the side." Somnia pointed at the knobs. "Got a deal?"

"Do ya!" The mare was absolutely fascinated by the device, so much so she didn't even look back to Somnia as she grabbed the pie tin and put it in her saddlebag. She was down to her last creation after four trades for assorted objects.

"It's a rusty, dented pie tin?" Nightwind looked at the item sticking from her saddlebags. "What's so interesting about that? Looking to cook pies quicker?" He rubbed against her. "Didn't take you for the baking type."

"It's not rust." She smiled back, catching his eye. "It's the resultant color of siveria crystals alloyed with steel. Its magical properties spread out the heat autonomously across the entire pan. This results in lower inconsistencies when baking, thus reducing the time needed."

"And how much would that have cost you normally?"

"Well, the thingie cost me thirty bits worth of materials, the pan is at least four thousand, so three-thousand-nine-hundred-and-seventy net-gain?"

He blinked in surprise. "Woah. That's a lot of bits."

"The last siveria mine in Equestria dried up a century ago after miscalculating the total yield of the vein. Mages and alchemist's need for thermally enhanced metal has shot the price up significantly, resulting in it only being afforded by the most prestigious of institutions."

"Don't you feel bad that they don't know what they actually have?" He stopped in front of her, grinding them to a halt. "Doesn't it bother you that they are sitting on a fortune and don't know it?"

Somnia giggled. "You're just like you were back when I knew you. Do you feel bad for the griffons that live on top of an untapped vein of pure copper? How about the ponies that live on prime fertile land for growing crops but chose to build a city of asphalt and concrete on it?"

"Huh?"

"Featherbil, griffon city within the Kingdom of Featherburg. Built on top of 'green rock' that was later discovered to be pure copper. Mining operations tried to happen, but the residents wouldn't abandon their homes. Resulted in a complete collapse of the local economy after all mining operations pulled out, leaving the working griffons behind. Poverty above sixty percent and rampant crime resulted.

"As for the fertile ground, Manehattan. Built over a drained swamp that just happen to be some of the most fertile soil in all of Equestria. I don't feel bad for them, I pity them for not understanding the worth of what they have." She turned back to the pie tin. "But the mare knew its worth. Five seconds faster and a superior bake is pretty good."

"Uhh..." He was completely dumbstruck. "How do you know all of this?"

"Reading, mostly. Mom gets a lot of books on a variety of topics, and I've ordered a few of my own." She winked. "Learning has its benefits, and it doesn't hurt to have a ghostly friend with even more knowledge."

"Still, I doesn't feel right for getting these things that are so valuable for next to nothing..."

Somnia sighed. "You're probably right, but they had their chance to understand what they had. Unicorns in Canterlot used to carry around green glowing rocks since they thought it looked prestigious. Turns out it was radioactive, but they only found out after several ponies died of 'mysterious causes'. It was renamed to 'rotrock' due to the effect of turning the flesh it laid against into a gangrenous mess."

"Okay, I can see how that didn't turn out well, but it still doesn't excuse--"

"Another example? How about the case of mistaken identity? A silvery metal was discovered in the Unicorn Range and excavation began. It was harder than silver, and far less numerous. To anypony with two brain cells, it wasn't silver, but they marketed it as 'regal silver', selling it off to the nobility and businessponies of Equestria for a higher price. That was trisium, the only known deposit ever discovered in Equestria. Each marble-sized chunk was worth over ten-thousand bits but the nobles got it for only a few hundred at most."

Nightwind shut his mouth, thinking about what she said. As he turned his attention back to Somnia, he could see her staring off distantly over his shoulder. Turning, he saw she was staring at a griffon sitting against a tree reading a book. Not knowing what was so interesting about that, he turned back to her to see her still staring absently in the creature. He waved hoof in front of her face, getting her to take a deep breath in before exhaling a few seconds later. "Thanks." She mumbled, blushing as she trotted off in pursuit of her next trade, the worried colt following behind.

The next stall she visited had a variety of jars with different types of dirt and sand in them. She took one good look over them before reaching for her final object, a clouded vial.

"Oh? Lookin' to trade?" The stallion behind the counter gave his best tradespony's smile. "What for?"

"The sand in that jar!" She proudly proclaimed nodding to the red one, having returned to her normal self. Although, Nightwind still did wonder what she was thinking about. "And the jar too, since I don't have anything to hold it."

He tapped the lid, his grin only getting wider. "What you got better be special, cause this here is worth more than that horn and wings."

"Saved the best for last." She placed the vial onto the table. "Within that vial is an elixir for a memory eraser. Drink it, and you'll be sent into your own mind to select areas of memory to erase permanently. It can also be used to read and erase the memories of somepony else next time you are both asleep if you add a single drop of your own blood before getting them to drink it."

The stallion squinted at her, eyeing her up. "Sounds extremely illegal to me."

"So is trading soulsand." She smirked back. "What do you say? Loyalty among thieves?"

The stallion bit his lip as he weighed the pros and cons. "And it works with anypony?"

"As long as they drink enough of it. There isn't a lot, so make sure they drink whatever you put it in."

He slid the jar over to her, which she grabbed without hesitation. She turned back to her colt friend after stuffing it into her saddlebag. "Let's go get something to eat, I'm starving!"

"Was that actually a memory eraser? Isn't that highly illegal?" Nightwind whispered to her.

"This much soulsand is worth a fortune, and it's highly lucrative this far away from Zebrica. It's a present for my mom." She admitted as they began trotting towards the concession booths. "I'm going to make her a healing elixir to heal her horn. I'll still have plenty for my projects, but it's a nice bonus."

"What's it even made of?" He tapped the top of the jar. "Looks... red?"

"It's made of a very rare substance normally created during chaotic purges. The only two places in the discovered world you can collect it are in Tartarus' lower levels, and the Biwandiso Mine in Zebrica, both of which are exceedingly dangerous places." She stopped to face him. "Do you know what this makes? Weapons capable of wiping out towns, and medicine capable of reversing death."

"And they just gave you it?" He asked concerned.

"Not everypony knows how to use it. It's also used as a wicked hallucinogen." She giggled. "Come on, let's get something to eat before the fair ends."

"No bites?" Duskwing asked as he returned with two hayburgers.

"It's like nopony has any respect for reading! These books helped make me who I am!" Twilight grabbed her hayburger and took a bite of it, chewing as Duskwing settled down next to her.

"Oh?" He pointed to a book. "What did this one do for you?"

Twilight put down her hayburger and picked it up, turning it over. "I was reading this book the night before I cast Starswirl's spell that made me an alicorn." She pointed to another. "This one I got the day I met my friends." She grabbed yet another book. "This is the one I was reading in bed before going outside to look over the edge of Rainbow Falls..."

"This one..." Duskwing pointed to an old fiction novel. "Or the same novel, at least, I had bought for my brother the day he died. It was supposed to be a birthday present in a couple of days." He pointed to a book that was off to the side. "The night before I left Hollow Shades to meet with the princess, I was reading that book. It's about two lovers lost to the sands of time."

Twilight grabbed the book in question and playfully glared at him. "This is a physics textbook."

"You know the idea of virtual particles?" He stepped closer. "One gets trapped in a magic field while the other shoots off away from it. They are the opposites of each other, only whole together."

"Don't they annihilate?" She playfully pawed at him. "Did you actually read the whole thing?"

He chuckled. "No, but there was somewhere I was headed with that."

The two shared a laugh, enjoying the dorky joke. "You don't need to impress me, you know?"

"I want to show you I care. I've been leading the Hollow Shades militia and hunting team ten years, and not once have I ever actually read about hunting. You saw the state of our library. Do you think there's anything in there about hunting?" He raised a brow playfully, returning to slightly more somber mood. "I helped my community because it was fulfilling. It gives me a rush of excitement to know that I'm serving ponies I care about."

"I've read a lot of books in my life..." Twilight picked back up the novel she was reading before talking to him that night. It was a romance, one of the less saucy ones from the library with at most detailed descriptions of aggressive cuddling and kissing. Two lovers united after the mare is sent to quell the prince's rebellion. They spent time together for nearly a year, learning of each other's experiences and struggles, growing together for the better, and understanding what it truly meant to love another. It ended at a fair where the two married each other, solidifying their devotion to one another and vowing to never let their love fade...

"Hey, it's okay." Duskwing wiped Twilight's cheek with a hoof, hugging her. "I'm here."

She sniffled, laughing a bit with the tears before facing him. "Duskwing, do you believe in fate?"

"I've learned to accept what comes. For good or ill." He smiled back, moving his face a bit closer.

Twilight closed her eyes, letting the moment happen. His breath was so close to her lips...

"TWILIGHT!" She was pushed to the ground from the side. "I need you to say a trade wasn't fair! Fast!"

Somnia looked back through her five acquired items as the trial proceeded. One magically enhanced pan, a small statuette with useful gemstones, an odd lamp with a few pieces of mana-rich glass, a broach with another magical gemstone, and a jar of demon sand. A pretty good haul considering she was using hoofcrafted mechanisms to trade for most of them. Shame about trading the memory eraser away, but sacrifices were needed for the greater good.

"I can't believe she traded her friend's freedom for a book." Nightwind whispered to her.

"You still have slavery in Equestria?" She looked back up, getting a nasty look from the mare beside her.

"It's 'indentured servitude' or 'forced employment'." He clarified with air-quotes. "Slavery in all but name."

"Shh!" The mare shushed them, getting their attention back to the proceedings.

"I've heard what you both have to say, and I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash, but my hooves are tied. You said it was a fair trade." Twilight stated simply from the princess' seat.

"Yeah, I said it, but I was wrong! I did want that book, a lot. I said I wanted it more than anything in all of Equestria. But there's no thing that's worth as much to me as a friend. I might have forgotten that for a little bit, but it's true. Which means there's no way this trade can be fair!" Rainbow declared.

"Oh, come on, that's... the sweetest thing I've ever heard." The opposing mare smiled over to Rainbow. "Okay, the trade's off!"

They each returned their items and Rainbow Dash tackled Fluttershy into a hug followed by the orthos while the crowd cheered for the happy resolution.

"And with that, I declare this trial, and this year's Rainbow Falls Traders Exchange, over!" Twilight banged the gavel two times as a definitive end to what was a successful day.

The assembled ponies began to disperse back into the main area, finishing a few 'unofficial' trades of things that they might not otherwise had been able to. The foals reunited with their guardians at the stage while everypony else finished up their trading and packing.

"Looks like you got quite a lot of stuff." Twilight commented as they returned to her booth.

Somnia hummed absently. "Just what a could. Clockwork stuff seems to be pretty popular around here."

"It good to hear you got what you wanted." Twilight cast a quick glance at Duskwing, communicating a short message.

"Y'know, there's still some time before we leave..." Duskwing added as they arrived at the booth and the foals began packing the boxes with books, Somnia prodding her cousin to go along with it.

"I guess we could, but the moment was ruined..." Twilight complained, rubbing his chest while giving a playful pout. She couldn't even describe what her heart was doing, it felt so natural, like some distant memory surfacing with her emotions running wild. She couldn't help but smile, although she did her best to maintain her pout by biting her lip.

"I'm sure nopony will mind now. Moments come and go, but memories remain."

"And what kind of memory do you want this to be?" She raised her head so their snouts were barely a hoof apart.

He grabbed her, dipping her toward the ground, snout-to-snout. "One to remember." Before deeply kissing her in full view of all the ponies walking by, receiving several shocked gasps from nearby ponies.

"Nice." Somnia quietly whispered to her cousin.

"Eck."

They kept holding for several seconds before two lovers broke off, Twilight with a goofy grin on her face as Duskwing righted her back into a sitting position.

"*Ahem*"

Twilight slowly turned to see four of her friends and Spike standing there widely smiling at her. "Care to introduce us, darling?"

Sitting back in her seat, Twilight sighed out a breath of satisfaction. Today had been a great day. Duskwing was in a different compartment of the train, but she knew that she would have some explaining to do for her friends. Part her wanted him to stay so badly, to spend a few more hours with him, but she knew that they had to go back to their separate towns. They did agree to meet up sometime during the Equestria Games, a meeting she was more than looking forward to.

"Duskwing, eh?" Rainbow prodded her shoulder. "Didn't know you were the bad-colt type."

"He's not a bad-colt! He's... a little rough around the edges, but soft just beneath the surface." She lightly defended, unable to stop the blush coming to her cheeks.

"Doesn't he have a criminal record?" Applejack chuckled. "And you accused him of tryin' to hurt Somnia in Rainbow Falls?"

"Leave her be. We should be happy that she found somepony who accepts her for who she is, flaws and all." Rarity nodded with conviction. "Not like you've made any moves on your little crush, Applejack."

"H-Hey! I'm workin' up to it!" She folded her forelegs.

"Tell us when you do. It'll be a AJ-Got-Together-With-Her-Crush party!" Pinkie squee'd before grabbing Twilight's face and bringing her eye-to-eye. "Twilight, we need to have him in Ponyville for the Twilight-Has-A-Coltfriend party!"

"He's moving to Ponyville after the Equestria Games." Twilight pushed her back, quickly adding as her friends devilishly smiled at her. "A place of his own! N-Not with me!"

"We'll see." Somnia snickered, receiving a glare from her mother as her blush only grew.

"I have something for you, AJ." Rarity reached into her saddlebag and pulled out a rusted pie tin. "I know it's not the pie tin you were after, but I hope you like it. It's the rustiest piece of junk I could get."

"Well, I took my half of our stash and got you this!" She took out a small pin with a purple diamond on it.

"Ooh!" Rarity cooed, taking it into her hooves to examine.

"And I know you're gonna love it, 'cause you already have a bunch of ones that look exactly the same sittin' in the drawer doin' nothin'. So that should settle it once and for all which of us is the better friend." She nodded affirmatively.

"Oh, come on! You both gave up what you wanted to get something for each other! That's the coolest thing a friend can do. Trust me, I know." Rainbow not-so-humbly affirmed.

"Somnia, did you get what you wanted?" Twilight turned down to her saddlebags.

"Mm-hm!" She took out the small statuette. "The eyes are magical crystals that I can use for a flashlight."

"OOoo, sparkly!" Pinkie touched the eyes that shimmered in the light.

Somnia then took out the odd lamp that got a groan from Rainbow and a giggle from Fluttershy. "This lamp has pieces of mana-rich glass in it. I'm going to break it apart when we get home to sort through the pieces and pick out the proper ones."

Next was the pie tin--

"Hey! That's the pie tin I wanted!" Applejack called out. "How'd you get that?"

"I traded one of my clockwork thingies for it. Cool looking and functional." Somnia coyly smiled, reaching in for the broach--

"And that's what I wanted!" Rarity pouted. "It's no fair!"

"Did you even try talking to them?" The filly asked with a raised brow, getting only nervous chuckles. "Yeah, thought so."

Finally, she took out the jar and showed it to the group who looked at it somewhat confused. Except for Twilight. She was mad.

"YOU TRADED FOR DRUGS?!"

Author's Note

I feel dirty after writing that cockblock. Eck!

Chapter 19: What We Must

Sitting at the table awkwardly, the colt tried putting on his best smile for the two fillies that sat across from him.

"Sooo... How's life on a farm?"

"Tiring." One of the fillies answered. "Lotta work. Gotta get up to do mah chores bright 'n early."

The other filly sighed. "Sorry, this isn't going to work out. Maybe I should just go back to--"

"W-Wait! I-I, um, I--"

"It's alright." The first filly put her hoof onto his. "We get it. Ya ain't used to hangin' with fillies."

Two... more... drops...

Somnia watched carefully as another drop fell into the solution below. She needed to get this done before she was picked up by the chariot for the press conference, and nothing was going to interrupt her work.

The last drop finally fell, at which point Somnia shut off the valve and moved the elixir from the stand to the burner. Blue flames were needed to heat it until it turned a sickly green. She watched it in anticipation, making sure to not take her eyes from it under any circumstances.

"Somnia?" Twilight called from the top of the stairs, trotting down when she didn't get a response.

"One minute." The filly saw the solution start to boil, but still no green.

"What's this for?" Twilight curiously examined the large insulated crate next to her.

"This." The elixir turned green and she threw open the lid on the crate, quickly grabbing the potion with tongs to place it into the foggy depths of the box before closing it and locking all the latches on the top. For good measure, she strained picking up a sandbag to place on top of the deep freeze. She panted a bit before going over to turn off the various alchemy equipment. "It's almost done."

"What's almost done?" Twilight asked curiously, examining the crate. There was nothing to really indicate what it was for, although she assumed it to be a dry-ice freezer from the fog she briefly saw and the ambient temperature around it.

"Your gift." She sat down on a spare chair, grabbing a cup of water from the table that had been sitting there since the start of the project. "In two hours, I want you to take that out and let it thaw. When it's drinkable, chug it down whole!"

"Is it another potion?" She looked over the various supplies still laying out while Somnia drank her water.

"It's an omni-healing elixir." The filly stated, keeping her eyes on her mother to gauge her reaction.

Twilight's eyes went wide. "B-But that--"

"Is only for the best-of-the-best?" Somnia smirked. "You'll be surprised how far I've come. Drink that elixir and your horn will be fixed in an instant and your body will feel like it's brand new."

"Somnia, I..." She returned her gaze to the table and spotted the jar of soulsand, half empty. "That's what you got it for?"

"One of the reasons." She admitted, hopping down from her chair. "The other is over here."

Opening a small drawer with vials inside filled with various substances, Somnia continued. "Each of these produces a specific effect. I've labeled them in Equinish script, so only I know what they do." She grabbed a vial filled with a bubbling mixture of green gases, holding it up so her mother could examine it. "They are experiments of mine. Each one of these on their own is harmless, but mixed together they can instantly produce an alchemical effect corresponding to the other."

"Why did you make them?" Twilight asked as the filly put the vial back and closed the drawer, walking her over to the fridge.

"Instant potions. Two specific ones can be mixed to produce a corrosive substance capable of going through steel, or two might get rid of a headache. Really depends." She replied, opening the fridge to take out a small vial of blue liquid. "Bottom's up!"

In one fluid motion, she drank the solution, eyes rolling back into her head as she rode the high. From where Twilight stood, she watched Somnia freeze in place as the bruises around her eyes vanished. Her whole body shook and writhed, her breathing labored and fluids dripped onto the floor from behind her. Blinking back into the real world after a minute of bliss, Somnia put the tube down on the counter and closed the fridge door before grabbing a towel, wiping up the small mess she made on the floor.

"A word of warning: Omni-healing elixirs will probably give you an orgasm." She giggled. "Wasn't expecting that."

"T-That wasn't even the first?!" Twilight asked amazed.

"Eh, this was my test. Turned out to be correct." Somnia shrugged, picking up the towel and carrying it up the stairs with her, Twilight following behind. She threw the towel into the laundry room before turning back to her mother. "Did you want something from me?"

"I-I was just coming down to tell you the chariot is here." She watched as her daughter simply trotted to the door. "Somnia!"

"Anything else?" She stopped, looking back impatiently.

"You didn't have to make the elixir, you know? I'm almost ready to use my magic again." Twilight smiled to Somnia who returned it halfheartedly.

"You'll need your magic. We all will." She ominously stated before waving goodbye as she went out to the chariot, leaving her mother filled with dread that her daughter saw something big about to happen.

"How's the sun?" Somnia smiled across the table. "Better question: How's the moon?"

"I swear, if you so much as make a single--"

"Relax, Celestia. It's going to be fine." Somnia picked up her cup of tea, examining it like it was fine wine. "Tell the ponies there's nothing to worry about, explain what happened in Hollow Shades and why the batponies are so riled up, dismiss rumors about disunity within Equestria. So easy you don't even need to have me here if it wasn't for the fact I was directly involved."

"Somnia, I'm not going to ask this again. Do NOT make any snide comments or jokes. This is serious!" Celestia took a deep breath to calm her nerves. "They need us to be a unified front. Having you speak on what happened is the best way to calm them down."

"Right." The filly loudly sipped from her tea, eyes focused on Celestia. "No funny business."

They continued to sit in silence for a few minutes, both glaring at one another with suspicion before Celestia finally asked what was on her mind. "Did Rarity do your makeup? I can't see a single suggestion of what you went through except for your horn and wings."

"I used a lesser omni-heal." Somnia admitted openly, one of Celestia's eyebrows answering curiously. "Didn't want to apply makeup, but they'll probably ask what happened to my wings and horn. Do you have illusion spells that could disguise them to look how they are supposed to?"

Celestia nodded, igniting her horn and casting two illusion spells to make it look like the filly was healthy as always. A few minutes later Raven came to get them for the press conference, leading them to the staging area. The two waited backstage for the last few minutes to elapse, giving Celestia one last chance to talk to her alone.

"I'm sorry about what happened."

"Why?" Somnia faced her suspiciously. "Why are you sorry?"

"I can't imagine how painful it must have been." Celestia frowned down to her. "Do you need anypony to talk to about what happened?"

Somnia turned back out to the stage. "We both already know what happened. Can't keep a secret from you."

"I wouldn't doubt your ability to hide things. I didn't know Shattershield and Fleeting Dust would abandon their reports to me. You've given me pause more than once, if only by your capabilities to influence others to follow."

"Can I ask you something?" She turned back to Celestia. Somnia already suspected that she would dodge the question, but it wouldn't hurt to ask. "Why did you have spies in Ponyville?"

"I'm worried about you. About what you will do if I don't keep an eye on you." Celestia admitted. "And it helps me keep tabs on the Elements of Harmony. Or at least the three did, before your guards murdered them." From across the stage, Raven gave them the signal that they were ready to begin.

Somnia took a deep breath. "Out of the fire..."

"Into the sunshine."

Both alicorns strode out to the chatter of the reporters, nobles, and whoever else decided to show up for the address. Compared to her first time speaking in front of them, Somnia was more than ready to face down any questions. While Celestia adjusted her papers, Somnia reviewed her intentions for the press conference.

Assuage fears about disunity, confirm my devotion to Equestria, and most importantly, advocate for the thestrals.

"Good morning, my little ponies." Celestia began after passing down the extra microphone to Somnia. "I would like to start this press conference by answering questions leftover from our last conference with Princess Somnia.

"Firstly, it is true that we weren't being completely honest about the magical burst detected from Ponyville. The situation at the time was extremely volatile, and keeping Princess Somnia's responsibility for the events hidden was for her protection until we managed to create her own personal guard."

The crowd was relatively quiet compared to how Somnia expected it to be. It seemed most ponies were content to listen to what the princess had to say, which was extremely unsettling for a bunch of socialites and ambitious reporters.

"Secondly, the questions directed about Princess Somnia's past are willing to be answered by either myself or Princess Somnia. Without further delay, I would like to address the nation on the rumors and baseless speculation that has been circulated.

"The Princesses of Equestria are not waging a 'shadow war' against one another. I shouldn't have to tell you that, however it seems that some ponies are unable to accept that we aren't competitors. While each of the princesses possess their unique talents and territories, we are all equals according to the Equestrian law and should be considered as equals by all ponies.

"Furthermore, the idea that Princess Somnia is planning a coup of some sort originates from certain disgruntled nobles when they learned of her existence around the time of the Summer Sun Celebration, and it is a deliberate attempt to drive a wedge between us. Clearly, this hasn't worked."

Somnia cleared her throat. "I don't want to have to address this again, so I'm going to tell you in no uncertain terms: I'm not planning or carrying out a coup, rebellion, insurgency, uprising, or anything of the sort towards the princessdom, my fellow princesses, or Equestria at large. I'm literally a filly that hasn't been in Equestria for two months, and it's actually pretty funny that you think I'd be capable of arranging something like that." Somnia giggled before returning to a demeanor a bit lighter than before. "The ponies of Hollow Shades really liked my speech. It isn't any deeper than that."

Celestia continued. "Princess Somnia has been very outspoken for the rights of thestrals. In the short time she's been in Equestria, she has opened my eyes to just how important it is that their communities are repaired and given equal treatment." Some murmurs spread throughout the crowd. "I can understand the concerns other ponies have about our thestral population, however, let me assuage your concerns. They are ponies like any pegasus, unicorn, or earth pony. They may eat meat, but they consume legal sources just as our limited griffon population does."

"And," Somnia spoke up, "the stereotypes spoken about them aren't true. They are not 'more aggressive' than other ponies, they are not 'bloodsuckers' or vampires, and they are not 'criminally inclined'. Each of these claims have been proven wrong, time and time again."

"Princess Somnia knew thestrals back in her original kingdom as well as modern Equestria. Her own father is a thestral, and neither have nor will act disharmoniously towards other ponies or to Equestria." Celestia gave a gentle smile to the crowd. "Now that we have addressed the main concerns, we will be moving to the Q&A section." The regal sister shut off both of the microphones and leaned down to Somnia. "Thank you for helping with this."

"It needed to be done." Somnia smiled up to Celestia, although the smile itself was all for show. "Don't want any 'political instability', now do we?"

"Quiet right." Celestia stood up tall and activated the microphones again. A few reporters were already standing, hooves in the air to be selected. The princess chose one at random.

"I'm with the Crystal Archives, and we were wondering about the mention of 'Queen Somnia' by the residents of Hollow Shades at the end of the speech she gave. Was it merely a slip of the tongue, or does Princess Somnia's proclamation about being 'Queen of the Harmonic Empire' mean something?"

"Good question." Celestia answered as filly in question opened her mouth to answer. "It was merely a slip of the tongue. The Harmonic Empire is a now-defunct political entity that existed during Princess Somnia's time. She was next in line to inherit the title of queen, however such a title no longer holds any weight."

The reporter sat back down, content with the answer. Somnia chose the next pony, a pegasus mare.

"Hi, the Manehattan Times is wondering about who the 'Excalion' mentioned is. Are they related to the old empire in some way?"

"Excalion was commonly known as the 'first alicorn'." Somnia answered. "They weren't actually an alicorn, or even the first, but that is a much longer story. What you should know is that they became a mystical figure within the old empire due to them appearing as different animals to ponies throughout the ages. They were the single most influential individual within the Harmonic Empire besides the queen. Unfortunately, the mystery they shrouded themself in resulted in them being treated like a religious figure."

"And this religion had the 'Ascended' at the head of it?"

"Correct, although it is a bit inappropriate to actually revere them as a deity considering their relative inactivity on affairs." Somnia turned up to Celestia for approval, which she granted with a nod. "Excalion brought their faith with them to the continent, spreading it among ponies. They didn't like being seen as a religious figure or prophet, as they were merely doing what they believed was right by spreading the truth."

"Were they actually real, or are they just a story?" The reporter questioned. "It sounds like they may just be fictional. No offense."

"None taken. They are real." Somnia giggled. "I'd have them speak to you if they were here, but they're back in Ponyville."

"They're alive? Did they go into limbo with you?"

"No, they've been around since the Fall of Excalicorn, helping ponies from the shadows. I used to talk to her a lot back then, and was only recently reunited with them. They're a trusted advisor and good friend."

The reporter furrowed her brow quizzically. "I went to school minoring in ancient legends pre-dating the Founding of Equestria, and I've never heard of a creature that has helped ponies throughout the ages. At least not one without an ulterior motive."

"I can explain that." Celestia spoke up again. "My mother, Queen Faustinia, issued a decree to eliminate any such information. You haven't heard of them because it has been under an information quarantine since before I was born. I can however confirm Princess Somnia's statement: Excalion is a trusted advisor to the crown since long before my coronation and even up to the modern day. All records were obfuscated, rewritten, or simply destroyed of any stories involving her."

The crowd mumbled discontentedly among themselves at the explanation, so Celestia elaborated: "The information quarantine was an archaic solution to a very old problem surrounding legitimacy. In Princess Somnia's time, there were thousands of alicorns. The old stories tended to mention that the royal family had been wiped out entirely, and that no alicorn had been spotted in millennia except by the most curious of scholars or the insane. My mother, along with Excalion, slowly destroyed all records of the old Harmonic Empire in order to secure legitimacy at the head of a new Equestrian monarchy, using the belief that all alicorns were royalty. My mother actually was a member of the royal family, being the youngest of the former queen's foals."

"Are you saying we've been lied about our history for millennia?" The reporter narrowed her eyes.

"Partially. Much of the history recorded is accurate up until the Founding of Equestria. Unfortunately, everything before then isn't certain. Even my sister and I have been unable to fully put together a timeline of events beyond a single legend involving Gusty the Great's defeat of Emperor Grogar."

"Gusty's real name was Princess Stellar Shimmer. She was my sister." Somnia added.

The reporter glared between the two suspiciously. "All of this seems a little convenient, don't you think? A filly showing up from a seemingly long forgotten empire, who happens to not only know some of the most influential figures in all of pony history, but is related to them?"

"That is what happens when information is lost." Celestia simply answered. "Do you have anymore questions, or can we move on to another topic?"

"No, this is fine for now, your majesties." She sat back down, Celestia picking out the next, the one thestral that actually bothers to show up at the press conferences.

"Batty Magazine would like to know about the 'Queen's Promise'. What is it exactly?"

"I mentioned most of it during the speech, but I'll give you the full version." Somnia cleared her throat. "I, Queen Somnia Temporus of the Harmonic Empire and the whole of Equus, descendant of their holiness Excalion of the Veil, do hereby proclaim before the Crucible of Harmony and the Ascended that no pony shall suffer under my watchful gaze. That I, being sovereign to the Children of Harmony, will ensure their peace, prosperity, and freedom against all threats internal and external. From now until death, my duty shall remain bound by this promise."

"You mention a few more of the religious aspects and this 'Excalion' again. Would you mind explaining them further?"

"I would," she winced up to Celestia, "but it would take a while to fully get into it. Long story short, it was made long after Excalion retreated from public life. All creatures in the Harmonic Empire had their own ways of worship, even if it made no sense beyond the seven sets of tenants. The Cyclical Truth was never meant to become a religion, but that's what it became for the majority of the population."

The reporter thanked her and sat down. Checking the other reporters with their hooves up, she spotted a claw among them. A single griffon, likely from the Griffish Isles if her studies into modern Equestria were correct. Swallowing the feelings that bubbled up within her, Somnia picked them next.

"Your majesties, I'm with the Griffish Grimoire from Trottingham, and I'd like to follow up about the faith of Princess Somnia. Within the most popular griffon denomination, Boreas descended from the heavens to bestow griffons the gift of strength and determination. There were also seven old sets of tenants that were initially declared, although they have been added to over time. According to the legend, He made a grand city larger than any other, with a tower of solid metal that reached into the sky at its center. The city in the old texts roughly translated as--"

"Exciplision." Somnia smiled to him. "It's the Equinish script word for Excalicorn. I've read your holy text, or at least the translation I was able to order."

The griffon steadied himself on the chair in front of him. "A-Are you saying our holy texts...?"

"They were founded on the old faith from the Harmonic Empire." Somnia nodded. "Boreas seems to be a slightly distorted version of Excalion, given far more power and influence than she actually possessed. I'm sorry if its hard to accept, but your faith is built on a something older than griffons or ponies. The continent of Griffonia was a major territory within the empire, with a population of over 700 million griffons by the time of its fall. One of my uncles was the royal sovereign of the territory, although he delegated to a ducal council for administrative reasons."

"By Boreas..." He collapsed into his chair, head in his claws, marking the end of the questioning. Celestia sighed, choosing another pony.

"Princess Somnia, you look different than how you were after getting out of the hospital." The familiar unicorn mare had all eyes on her. "You were pretty beaten up, and your horn had a cast on it."

"Sit back down!" Celestia ordered, casting a quick glance town to the filly that lightly shook, her breathing already unsteady. "The health of Princess Somnia is not a topic of discussion we are willing to entertain. She's perfectly healthy."

"W-What she said." Somnia nodded a bit too hastily, returning a worried glance to Celestia.

"But I--"

"Guards!" Celestia motioned with a hoof and a guard went over to escort the reporter from the room as she yelled out about a cover-up. Choosing another pony, Celestia steeled herself for another question directed to her.

"Princesses, I'm with the Canterlot Chronicle, and we were wondering about the reports of thestral activity in northern Equestria..."

"Did you have to tell them about Boreas?" Celestia sat down in front of the mirror of the backstage area, grabbing a cup of water left for her by an attendant. "It's going to take years to secure diplomatic treaties with the griffons at this point."

"Sorry, but they deserved to know the truth." Somnia collapsed onto a pillow, letting go the anxiety she had been holding onto for the last half of the conference. "It's not healthy to believe something that's wrong, especially if its used to justify controlling creatures."

"I'm considering the diplomatic impact." She got up and walked over to Somnia to lay down next to her. "They'll take this as a deliberate twisting of their faith into something that isn't true. We may know it's the truth, but they have no reason to see it as such."

"I'll get around to proving it to them." Somnia shrugged. "Not like they're going to do anything about it until I actually show them they're wrong."

Celestia sighed. "Alright, we'll discuss this at a later date. I'll send a royal ambassador to the Griffish Isles to do damage control. They'll want to hear the full truth, rather than the half-truth the paper will likely report."

Helping Somnia up from the ground, Celestia led her back in the direction of the throne room. Unfortunately for both of them, the nobles will want their turn to ask questions.

A cushion had been left next to the throne for Somnia to lay on while the nobles approached with their inane remarks. Celestia asked Raven about the initial responses to the press conference while Somnia took the time to close her eyes in the hopes of getting a bit of rest and to get rid of the remaining anxiety from the press conference.

"I see." Celestia finished, nudging Somnia over with her magic, right onto the floor. "Did you hear any of that Somnia?"

"Yeah, yeah." She got up and laid back down on the cushion. "They don't believe me. They think we're still lying about everything that was."

"I can't really blame them for being skeptical. The claims would seem unbelievable on the face of it." Celestia tapped her chin. "Perhaps some form of proof would be helpful, however I don't know exactly what would prove it beyond a doubt."

"Excalion and Grar would be able to." Somnia lazily suggested.

"Grar would only bring more questions, especially once we reveal their full name. As for Excalion, she likely will want to continue her work in secrecy."

"I don't know then." The filly sighed. "It's not like we can take them to Excalicorn, or even go there ourselves without being away for a month."

"What about Galdon? That is closer to Equestria and only involves traveling across the Wind--" Somnia shot up and hit Celestia's stomach. "Ow! What was that for?!"

"Do not speak their name! It gives them magic to keep existing." Her eyes were completely focused on Celestia's, conveying her seriousness.

"...That would have been helpful to know before we made it a Hearth's Warming tradition to tell the story of the founding." Celestia groaned. "Everypony in Equestria knows their name!"

"Then we'll need to change the tradition. Replace them with something like 'dangerous creatures' or 'malevolent entities'. But not a name, or description of what they do."

"I'll speak with the Noble's Council and Captain Shining Armor about banning the name from all records. Ponies will probably wonder about the change, however."

"They'll forget in time. Give it a dozen generations, they'll be forgotten." Somnia laid back down on her cushion. "We also probably shouldn't travel through their territory, it can be quite dangerous."

The regal sister nodded. "I can agree with that, however, let's discuss this another time. For now, shall we begin?"

Somnia impatiently tapped her hoof while the reporter made their way to the front. Nearly four bucking hours of constant talking was grating her nerves, there being only been a single pony who had a complaint not related to the conference or her, which allowed her to change gears into something a bit more thoughtful if only briefly. Celestia had to leave an hour prior to help with some situation developing in Ponyville, which left the filly as the sole waking monarch in Canterlot. Again.

"Your highness." They bowed before the throne. After the press conference they started a day court session to answer any further concerns from the nobility, but every so often a reporter would come trickling in, such as now. "I'm still not certain what you meant by 'I swear by the Ascended' in your Hollow Shades speech. Are you paying a religious reverence to somepony?"

"Religious, maybe. Reverence, absolutely. Without the Ascended, nothing would be. It is only proper to swear by their name what I desired to be held in the highest regard. Is that all?" She answered curtly.

"No, I'm still wondering how you came to worship such a deity. We don't have much in the way of religion here in Equestria, with the sole exception of the regal sister's divinity, of course." She gently smiled. "I've been unable to cross-reference the faith with any classical or ancient pony religious creeds."

"It's older than Equus itself and has more living followers than ponies that have ever lived." Somnia squinted as her headache flared up. "You haven't heard of it because it was forgotten after the Fall of Excalicorn, as was explained in the press conference."

"Is there any truth to the--"

"You question the existence of the Ascended, yet you stand before the direct proof of their existence. The Grand Council answers directly to them, or we're supposed to." She sighed. "Look, it's a long story, one I only know enough about to answer on a pop quiz. I'm tired. Is there anything I can clear up for you that won't take me an hour to explain?"

The reporter bit their lip, shooting their next question: "What is a Grand Councilor and who are the Grand Council?"

"Leave." Somnia dismissively waved at them to which they complied.

You wanted to do this. Only yourself to blame.

Celestia needs to be able to trust me. I need to do this.

"Next!" She called out to the other side of the room, turning over to an equally tired Raven. "Can you get me something to eat and drink? I don't think there will be any notes taken while you're gone."

"Of course, your majesty." Raven trotted off out the door, passing a familiar white stallion with blonde hair.

"Where's Princess--"

"Shut it, Blueblood!" Somnia sat up. "What the hay do you want?"

"I would like--"

"Too bad! I'm here, and you will either bring your concern to me or I'll have you removed from the throne room."

The prince swallowed his pride. "Why do you surround yourself with such disgusting vagrants? It's unbecoming for royalty to associate with would-be criminal elements!"

"You're going to have to be more specific." Somnia leaned onto the leg-rest disinterestedly.

"Your personal guards! The captain abandoned their duty to Princess Celestia! The lieutenant is a self-admitted foalconite, and you have a changeling in the guard! What possible reasons could you have for keep these disreputable elements around?"

Somnia was pleasantly surprised it wasn't another complaint about thestrals, although she didn't know if Blueblood actually had anything against them. "I keep them around because they are loyal and skilled. What the captain did was their choice, and Princess Celestia granted the request herself. As for the others, what they may be is of little consequence to said loyalty and skill. Is there anything else I may answer?"

The prince scrunched up his nose. "No, I'll take my leave for Princess Celestia to answer my remaining questions."

"Don't let the door hit you on the way out!" Somnia called out one last remark as the 'prince' trotted from the room. Taking a deep breath: "How many more?"

"At least twelve, your majesty!" The royal guard at the other end called out.

"Send the next one in!"

A unicorn mare trotted up, no doubt another reporter based on their outfit.

"Your highness." She bowed. "I'm Crystal Heat from the Vanhoover Chronicle. I'm here to ask about certain rumors that have been floating out of this year's Rainbow Falls Traders Exchange."

Somnia rubbed between her eyes. "Speak your piece."

"We've had eyewitnesses say that Princess Twilight has a coltfriend. Is there any truth to the rumors?"

Somnia's gaze drifted to the upper perches in the throne room. Cheeky bitch...

"Princess?" The reporter tried to get her attention. "Does the monarchy of Equestria have any comment on these rumors?"

"Yeah, my mom has a coltfriend." Somnia smiled down to her. "It's my dad, Duskwing. They're due to be married in the next few years. We haven't discussed it publicly because my dad and cousin wish to remain out of the national spotlight. Please include in your report that nopony should try reaching out to my family unless it is a question or comment directed toward myself."

"Is that an order?"

"It's going to become one if ponies won't listen." Somnia cocked a brow. "Any other questions?"

The reporter bowed and left with a simple: "No. Thank you, your highness." It was grating, but she had to do this, even if Celestia was available to take over. She had to prove she could handle it respectfully. Celestia needs to trust her.

"Next!"

"I'm proud of you, Queen Somnia." Celestia flew down from her perch. "You didn't have to handle the entire day court on your own."

"I needed the experience." Somnia yawned. "Can I go home now?"

"The chariot has been waiting on the landing platform since I returned." Celestia smiled down to her, landing next to the throne. "Let's get you back to your mother."

The two walked towards the landing platform, escorted by Scuttle who had been patiently standing guard disguised as Dusty. The three boarded onto the the chariot, which promptly took off for Ponyville. It was nearly sunset, a long day's final streaks of sunshine warming Somnia's face. All she wanted was to go to bed, preferably without nightmares.

The chariot landed in front of the Golden Oaks Library and Celestia dismounted to perform her royal duties. She lowered the sun with the usual ease while Twilight exited the library to greet them.

Celestia turned to Twilight, offering a motherly smile for her student. "How are you feeling?"

"A bit better." Twilight spoke to her with tired eyes as Somnia walked past. "Is there a reason Luna couldn't help out with this?"

"She really needed sleep after last night's royal duties, and Somnia needed to practice holding court on her own. The timing simply worked out well." Celestia got back onto her chariot, smiling to Twilight one last time. "See you at the Equestria Games, my faithful student."

Twilight returned into the library, locking the doors and windows before going upstairs to collapse down next to Somnia in her bed.

"How was the press conference?"

"Tiring. Boring. Annoying." Somnia groaned into the sheets.

"Did Celestia tell you why she was gone?" Twilight turned the filly over.

"No, what happened?"

Twilight gave a sigh. "It all started when Rarity was helping with the Foal and Filly Fair..."

"Long day?" Dawn stretched out on his bed, waking up a bit more before heading out for his duty. "I see we got somepony new."

"Dawn, this is Love. She's decided to join our little gang of misfits." Shield motioned to the griffoness who stood at attention. "You know that you don't need to act all military, right?"

"I was expecting there to be formal rules of conduct." She turned to the captain slightly confused. "Aren't you in charge?"

"Officially, yes. Unofficially, only Somnia is." He sat down on his bed and began disarming. "We're not superiors or inferiors in the Queen's Guard. We're comrades sworn to Her service. According to the Equestrian government, I'm 'in charge', but that's not what we do here."

A crow flew through the partially open window, Shield closing it once it landed atop its perch. It examined the griffoness critically before finally speaking.

Lovisa of Featherbil, known as the assigned name Love, I would like to introduce myself. I'm Excalion, former Pentus of Soul for the Harmonic Penti, one of the queen's principle advisors and Royal Regent of Equestria. The next few weeks will test you on your devotion for our cause. You will feel like leaving your post at times. All of us have had doubts about what we are doing, it is only natural to feel such a way when confronted with the horrible truth.

There will be many questions you will not get satisfactory answers for, but I will try my best to assist you in adjusting to your new position in life. By agreeing to be a part of this organization, you are swearing an eternal service to the queen, from now until she so chooses to release your soul. You'll likely outlive everypony you know, losing family and friends to the sands of time. If you do not wish to pursue this path, leave now.

Lovisa shifted on her paws and claws. She hadn't expected this, but what the captain had said about fulfillment kept her in place. If there was even a chance she could feel like her life meant something more, that she could feel respected, that she could be with companions that she didn't have to watch carefully, then she would do it. The bits were still a nice bonus.

Since you still stand here, I can only assume you agree to swear service to the Grand Councillor of Harmony Somnia Temporus.

Welcome to the Harmonic Penti

Chapter 20: Service and Duty

~Oh, we're the Wonderbolts and we're super fast~

~And we're from Cloudsdale which-is-a-part-of-Equestria, hehe~

~That we like best and we're proud and we're fast and we like it because it really has nice trees~

"It's all in there, gang! Leave it to Spike, champion gear carrier for all of your gear carrying needs." The small purple and green dragon proudly declared. Exiting the train last with Dawny, Somnia yawned out absently, still in the middle of waking up. Her other guards had already exited to the secure the area for what little chance there was that there was a danger waiting at the train station. A bit silly considering that everypony else left along with them.

"And the Ponyville flag? You sure? And what about the flagpole?" Apple Bloom asked concerned.

"In with the portable ramp!" Spike leaned against the piled luggage, pushing it a bit until he fell over. "Woah!"

"Give it a rest, Apple Bloom." Scootaloo lightly chastised.

Spike got back up and brushed himself off. "Aw, she's just nervous, that's all. Perfectly understandable. Whenever I'm afraid I'll forget something or start to panic, I have a simple trick. I count to ten, and by the time I'm done, I've calmed myself enough to get the job done right every time. Easy-peasy, cider-squeezy!" Spike reassured the crusaders.

From the side, Twilight spotted two royal guards carrying a portable throne rushing towards Spike, considering what they could possibly be in a rush to do. Her questioning was answered soon enough as they picked up the dragon and circled back with Spike yelling out: "Hey! Put me down!"

"What's going on?!" Scootaloo asked concerned, Twilight muttering under her breath before galloping after the dragon while everypony else proceeded towards their hotel. A game attendant pulled the luggage behind Somnia as she slowly woke up near the back of the group. The CMC fell back to include their sleepy friend in their conversation.

"Are ya excited to see yer first Equestria Games?" Apple Bloom asked royal filly.

"Yup!" Somnia answered affirmatively. "Did any of you get to go to one before?"

"I saw the Canterlot games when I was really young!" Sweetie replied happily, her expression falling for the second half of the statement: "Can't remember much of it though."

"Mom and dad are always away when it takes place." Scootaloo groaned. "I wish they would take me to one so that we could spend time together as a family."

"At least ya got parents to take ya." Apple Bloom nudged her friend. "With ma and pa not around to help out on the farm, we hadn't had the bits to afford going to see the games!"

"Hey now!" Rainbow Dash interrupted, flying in front of the four and hovering backwards so she could speak directly to them. "You're all here now, aren't you? You're going to be representing all of Ponyville with your awesome flag carrying! That's something to be proud of!"

"Yeah!" Scootaloo jumped into the air fluttering her wings, hovering for a moment. "It's going to be so cool to burst into the arena! I can't wait!"

"Me neither!" Sweetie squeaked as they approached their hotel. The elements checked in the group while the game attendants split the luggage, the crusaders 'supervising' to make sure nothing was lost. With nothing better to do while waiting, Somnia trotted over to her guards.

"Are you all liking your gifts?" The filly happily asked her trusty protectors.

"I can't wait to use this thing." Dusty examined the hoof-mounted canon. "It'll be like a bolt of lightning directly to the face."

"You all got the cool stuff!" Dawn complained, stretching out his wings to show off the metal blades along the front edge. "What do I have? Wings blades. I could have gotten these from some of my underworld contacts!"

"And your wing patches, don't forget those." Shield chuckled. "You're just jealous. This horn amplifier is pretty great though."

Scuttle shook his head. "Somnia, is a knife really a good investment? I literally could have grabbed one from the library kitchen."

"I like mine." Love ran her talon along the crossbow. "It's a lovely gift. Thank you, your majesty."

The five ponies fake gasped at the slip-up, all chuckling or giggling afterwards.

"I probably won't need you to guard me until the games are over. Feel free to explore the city while waiting." Somnia pawed the air playfully. "The guard presence is going to be on par with the castle in Canterlot."

"Never stopped us from doing our duty before." Shield responded. "Don't worry, we'll stay out of your way. Actually..." He turned to the other four. "Let's do some practice at the guard compound. It wouldn't hurt to coordinate our tactics to prevent a repeat of the rescue mission."

The five guards all headed off in the direction of the barracks while Somnia trotted back up to the elements who at this point were sorting out who was getting what room.

"Somnia! Hurry up or we'll be late!" Twilight called into the washroom, tapping her hoof impatiently on the crystal floor. The opening ceremony was in the last half of the day with events over the next two, concluding with ice archery and the closing ceremony on the third. The arena was truly marvelous to behold, made out of the same bluish crystal that made up most of the Crystal City.

Uncomfortably shifting on her hooves, she looked around to see if anypony else was coming. The upper section pretty much only included the royal stands and a few private booths further down, so the absence of ponies other than the guards was expected. Entering into the washroom, she could hear the hyperventilation of her daughter from one of the stalls.

"Som?" She gently said, causing Somnia to flinch in the stall to impact one of the walls.

"I'll be out in a minute!" She yelled back, her voice cracking as she fought the tears. Exiting the room, Twilight patiently waited for her to finish her most recent panic attack. It hurt to see her like this, but Twilight knew that Somnia would never accept help if she didn't expressly ask for it. It was on her list of things to talk to Duskwing about if she managed to corner him for a few minutes. Maybe he could get through to her where Twilight couldn't.

Another two minutes passed before Twilight heard a toilet flush from inside and the sound of water running. The filly came trotting out slightly embarrassed, but trying to put on a happy demeanor that didn't really conceal just how nervous she was. "Ready!"

"Your crown?" Twilight raised a brow.

Somnia sighed and went back into the the washroom to retrieve the tiara given to her by the princesses before the two made their way out of the inner area into the royalty stands. Twilight's throne was between Celestia and Somnia, giving a polite bow to the regal sister as she motioned for Twilight to take a seat. On the other side of Celestia was her sister, eyes focused intensely on the field below them. Cadance gave a wave from the far side to Twilight who happily returned it as she took her seat.

The filly looked around the arena for the last minute before the procession began. There must have been over twenty thousand of ponies in the arena, more than double the entire population of Ponyville.

The teams began leaving the gates to rounds of cheering from the crowds. Some were louder than others, such as the Crystal City or Cloudsdale, but there was still good spirit behind it. Somnia and Twilight both cheered out for Hollow Shades and Ponyville, Celestia smiling over to them amused. Somnia couldn't hear what the crusaders had yelled out from this far away, but she did see Scootaloo burst from the paper tarp carrying the Ponyville flag followed by the rest of the town's team.

Humming to herself: Should I tell mom about Spike? The decision was all hers. No matter what happened, Spike wouldn't be able to light the beacon and Twilight would do it for him with her newly healed horn, resulting in his pride being crushed. Nah.

"What's wrong?" Cadance looked worriedly to the beacon as it continued not being lit, teams all gathered at the center of the stadium.

"Equestria, we have a problem." Twilight bit her lip.

"Somepony go down and help him!" Cadance ordered one of the guards, who promptly rushed off.

After a minute of no progress and a great sigh, Twilight tried concealing her horn as she ignited the beacon. "Phew!" She exclaimed while wiping her brow.

"You'll have to tell him." Somnia turned to her. "He'll misinterpret it as a magic power he has."

"Did you- Of course you did." Twilight playfully rolled her eyes. "Do you know what was wrong with him?"

"Nervous, probably." The filly shrugged. "I don't know. I just saw what he did, I don't know what he was thinking."

The anthem of Equestria was played, ponies standing proudly and repeating after 'Countess' Coloratura as she sang the words with all her heart, and when the teams dispersed from the field, the crowd followed. It was a fairly short ceremony, meant to get everypony excited to watch their favorite towns and cities compete, a show of glory and nothing more. There were a few events in the evening but most ponies chose to spend the time between now and then exploring the Crystal City, making use of all the tourist attractions, to the delight of the local shop owners no doubt.

As she trotted back inside the stadium, Somnia had only one thing on her mind, and so it shall be made reality. Rather than heading out with her mother, she stopped by the concessions booths. "One extra large pretzel, please!" She leaned on the counter, eyes glimmering for the delectable taste of the salty pretzels. It wasn't something they had back in Excalicorn, and Pinkie had highly recommended it. Plus it would be something pleasant to indulge in after her earlier episode.

"Seven bits." The mare waited while Somnia took the bits from her mane, hoofing over the entire bag. She had exactly seven bits, as foretold.

Her dreams weren't always bad or consequential, and she learned to make the most of them whenever she could.

"Stop, stop!" Shield called out to the other guards. "Dawn! Too far with your wings. Do you want to give them a paper cut or separate them in two?"

"I'm trying to not hurt her!" He defended. "We don't need to give it our all in training."

"You can get a bit closer." Shield rubbed between his eyes. Love got back up from where she had been knocked down, retrieving her spear as she walked over to the other two.

"I don't see what the big deal is. When we're in the thick of it, we won't hold back." Love shrugged, twirling her spear. "Besides, what if one of us is hurt and there's some sort of attack in the next couple of days? Do we really want to be down a pony? Or griffon?"

"She's right, ya know." Dawn nodded.

"Only a fool would attack one of the most heavily guarded events, with all the princesses present, in the middle of the second largest city in Equestria!" Shield countered. "Do you honestly expect them to perform a suicide mission just to have the slim chance of eliminating a princess?"

Across the field between rows of barrels stacked tall, another of Queen's Guards was searching for their partner. "Scuttle, where the hay are you?" Dusty checked the last barrel in the small field of hiding places. "Honestly, if I didn't know better I'd say you just up and left."

"I've been above you the entire time." His voice called out. Dusty turned her head above her but didn't see anything out of the ordinary.

"Invisibility spell?"

"Nope." He dropped the barrier around him. "Easy to spot that if you know what to look for. This is far more difficult to detect." He landed next to her, showing a smaller scale example of the spell. "It copies the light's trajectory from the other five sides and re-emits it from the direction you want it to fool. Plain as day that something is wrong from the other angles, but undetectable in the direction you're projecting."

"How did you see me then? Wouldn't the light from your target get caught by the field?" She poked the illusion, disrupting it.

"Combine it with a life detection spell or remote observance and you got a shield to trail unsuspecting targets. As long as it isn't raining or foggy out." Scuttle grabbed his water bottle and took a large drink. "Learned it during my training to be a long-term infiltrator. Takes a lot out of you to maintain it for long periods of time though."

"We can't just sit around and do nothing!" Shield yelled out, getting the attention of the last two guards. "I say we patrol the colosseum. Keep an eye on the guards and stragglers."

"Why?" Dawn offered a hoof while the other two walked over. "Somnia is safe with half the Crystal Guard protecting her, and she doesn't really care what we do in our free time. I want to go swimming at the hot springs, and I don't know about the rest of you, but it's going to be nice having time off."

"I second that." Dusty spoke up. "I want to go to the library to see what sorts of books they have in stock."

"I'm going to terrorize the city." Scuttle chuckled. "Maybe find security flaws in the colosseum defenses."

Shield growled. "Fine! But keep your equipment on you at all times just in case. If something happens, I want you to be able to respond within five minutes!"

"Deal!" The other three called out, dispersing.

"What about you, captain?" Love asked, bringing her twirling to a halt and folding back up the compact spear to reattach to her armor. "Anything you want to do in the Crystal City?"

"I'm going to patrol around the colosseum like I said I would." He groaned, turning away slightly as he reconsidered it for a few seconds. "I'm not used to having time off like this. I've served in the guard dutifully for nearly twenty years. It's my duty to serve, not relax on my flank getting fat."

"Why not come with me to the castle?" She suggested. "I've been hoping to see the inside since... well, I came to the city."

"What do I have to lose? Close enough to the colosseum in case something happens." He shrugged, following after her.

Getting up from bed, Twilight walked over to the door and opened it. "Oh, hi, Scuttle."

"Security is shitty around here." He smiled at her. "Didn't even need me to disguise myself in order to sneak past the guards."

"If you have suggestions, I'm sure my brother would love to hear them." Twilight stepped aside to let him in, both going over to sit at the small card table where Somnia was playing a game of solitaire.

"Nah, he's a right bastard that one." Scuttle chuckled, shaking his head. "Nearly had me arrested the moment I stepped into the guard compound."

"He's just paranoid about changelings, and rightfully so. Were you there for the Siege of Canterlot?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Yeah. I was an advanced infiltration drone. My job was to take up long-term residence within the city to feed reports for the tactical infiltration teams. It was one of my reports that helped Chrysalis take the place of that pink princess during a little get-together of nobles. After the magical burst broke my cover, three years of hard work building a profile turned into a game of survival as I made my way from the city."

"Must have been quite hard, given the changeling scare."

"It was. Couldn't disguise due to a magical overload, and could barely walk after my leg was broken from the impact against the wall. Hid in the sewers for days and left one night."

"Do you know how many other changeling spies are around Equestria? Or do they keep that information under lock-and-key?" Twilight floated over the kettle she requested earlier, pouring him a cup of lukewarm tea.

"Nah. Until my return to Canterlot around your coronation, no changeling spies had tried infiltrating the city from my understanding. We probably got some in other parts of Equestria, but I wouldn't really know them."

"So I've probably met somepony that was a changeling and didn't even know it?"

"Unlikely. We have very few long-term infiltrators due to the skill it requires. Not only do you need to form a complete history from scratch, but you also need to be suited for civilian life. I've checked around Ponyville and found one other 'ling, but they aren't associated with the hive."

"Wait, we have another changeling in Ponyville?!" Twilight sat up, eager to hear more.

"Don't try finding them. They want to be left alone to live their life." Scuttle sternly stated, drinking his cup of tea. "Few changelings betray the hive and live. If I wasn't a part of the Queen's Guard, I'd probably be hunted down and dragged back only to be executed. If they left, then they need to stay hidden."

"How did you meet them?"

"At the bar." He shrugged. "Offered me a drink and a dance, I accepted. We retired to their place for a bit of fun, then they asked me what I was doing in Ponyville with a knife to my throat. Turns out they assisted with the Siege of Canterlot and left after its failure. Lives out in the sticks alone. Goes by Kevin now."

"Oh... Right, him." Twilight turned away blushing. She remembered Kevin's accidental disguise slip up in the market. They lived outside of town, only entering while disguised and mostly for groceries. Not somepony seen often, much like Zecora in terms of reclusiveness, but she knew a few ponies that were on friendly terms with him. Still didn't make her feel comfortable around him though.

"What about you? Ever really spoken to one of us before?"

"Other than when Chrysalis was disguised as Cadance, no, not really. You're the only changeling I've ever spoken to without fear that you had other motives." She admitted.

"We're not all bad." He put down his cup of tea. "Honestly, we're not. The queendom is what keeps us in line and feared by others. If that filly is right, then she'll free us from the tyranny of Chrysalis once her uncle is found."

"Somnia, you never told me one of my brothers was a changeling." Twilight turned to her daughter lazily flicking through her cards.

"Oops?" She shrugged dismissively, keeping her eyes on the cards. "I mean, you technically had two between Uncle Tacis and dad. Does it matter?"

"No, but I still would have liked to know." Twilight shook her head, turning back to Scuttle. "That's why you are with the Queen's Guard? Because you believe that my brother will free you?"

"That, and because of what she represents." He ruffled up Somnia's mane. "She doesn't see us as monsters. To her, we're ponies like any other. That we deserve a chance at happiness and respect." Scuttle gulped down the remainder of the tea. "I gotta get going. It's going to be a long day tomorrow testing the security, and I still gotta sneak back to my room without being seen."

"It was nice chatting." Twilight shook his hoof, smiling gently. "It's good to know that I was wrong about changelings like I was about thestrals."

"Changelings can change, ya know?" He chuckled before going over and opening the door, looking into the hallway. With one last wave goodbye, he set off, closing the door behind him.

"Did you get to talk to dad?" Somnia turned up to her mother.

"Huh? No, I haven't had the chance to talk to him. I'm sure that I'll get to talk to him sometime before the games are over." She playfully squinted at the filly. "Not that somepony was helpful for telling all of Equestria."

Somnia giggled. "They would have found out eventually, better to get it out of the way now rather than wait until it blew up."

"Did you really have to say we were going to be married in a few years?" She softened her expression to wariness.

The filly put down the card she was deliberating on and leaned back in her chair smiling to her mom. "Having doubts?"

"I just want to make sure we'll get along, that's all." Twilight scooted her chair a bit closer, wrapping a wing around Somnia. "It's my first relationship, and I want to make sure this is who I want to be with for the rest of my life. It's probably hard to understand, but having patience for choosing a romantic partner is what a lot of ponies expect. We're not used to arranged marriages or being able to have foals without consideration for who the father is."

"Dawny would have made a great dad!" Somnia happily protested.

"Maybe he would, but I was just worried that you may have bitten off more than you can chew." Twilight kissed her on the head. "No getting pregnant before me, alright?"

"Don't worry, I don't plan to anymore." The filly snuggled into her.

Biting her tongue, Twilight thought this might be a possibility. Her daughter hadn't made any sex jokes or suggestive comments, hay, she even stopped flirting with Dawn. Her free-time activities also seems to have changed a lot since before the foalnapping, becoming far more... ambitious, and practical minded.

"When dad moves to Ponyville, I want to tell you the story of how you two originally met. It's really sweet." Somnia looked up to her mother. "I promise, you'll like it."

"I'm sure I will."

Day 2, event 6... or maybe 7? I still haven't found signs of interest among the observation subjects. Fellow researchers have been closely watching, seemingly enjoying the spectacle of the physical activities. I would much rather join them on the field than watch from on-high. That way I can feel as though I was doing something productive. If I pass unconscious from the strain of this task, I'm certain I'd never hear the end of it.

Quit being a drama queen, they are the best Equestria has to offer! At least, that's the principle.

Doesn't make it any less boring. Somnia huffed out. There was only one event she actually cared about, and that was the aerial relay. Everything between the start and then was an inconvenient royal chore to watch through. Maybe I'll join the games when I'm older...

Get through your coronation, then we'll see.

"Bored?" Twilight leaned over to her.

"Yeah..." Somnia admitted. "I just want to see dad compete."

"Not everything will be fun to sit through. You're going to have to go through even more boring things when you're older."

"I know..." The filly sighed. "When's the aerial relay?"

"Just after lunch. We're taking a brief break to eat after this event."

"Alright. Thank you." Somnia responded. One more event...

About thirty minutes later, and a hundred brain cells wasted- What did I say about being a drama queen? -the event was over. It was some sort of aerial dash. Speed over maneuverability. It actually surprised her to learn that the Griffish Isles actually had griffons on their team, making them the only non-ponies competing. It still perturbed her to see male griffons, but it was going to be something that she would have to get used to sooner rather than later.

Twilight and Somnia left the royal stands for the concession booths to grab something quick before the start of the next event while the other princesses stayed in their seats to talk to the Duke and Duchess of Maretania. While on their way through the inner atrium, a mare bumped directly into Twilight, stopping to glare at her.

"Sorry, I wasn't--" Twilight's eyes widened at the yellow and green mare's serious expression. Grabbing Somnia, the three of them made their way back towards a secluded area near the inner pillars for some privacy. "What's going on?" She whispered.

"It's bad. Really bad." Scuttle, who had disguised themself as a regular civilian, lowered their voice so nopony else could hear. "There's an entire area of the lower stadium that is being patrolled by mercenaries and soldiers. Mostly ponies, but some changelings and griffons too. I don't know what they have planned, but it's not good."

Twilight closed her eyes, mind spinning with possibilities. This can't be happening. Not now!

"What's your orders?" He asked seriously.

"Get the others. Take them down quietly. If a panic starts, I'll take responsibility for it." Twilight firmly whispered, giving him one last solid look before turning to Somnia. "Have you seen anything in your dreams that could help?"

The filly shook her head negatively, Twilight resolving to leave her decision stand. "This will have to suffice." Twilight nodded, sending off the mare into a casual trot to gather the others. She considered telling the other princesses, but it wouldn't matter until after the events when it was discovered. Was the Crystal Guard involved? How did they fail to secure the arena? None of this was adding up.

Hopefully the Queen's Guard would be able to eliminate them before anything happened.

"Can we get something to eat now? There isn't much time before they start!" Somnia grabbed her hoof, pulling her mother along.

"Rainbow Dash, right?" Duskwing stretched his wings as his competitor on the last third did the same.

"Yeah." She cracked her wings bones. "Long time no see. Get to see Twilight yet?"

"Nah. Too busy doing last minute practice." He chuckled. "Are your wings alright? That didn't sound good."

"Oh yeah, they're good. I always do that before flying my fastest." She began stretching out her glutes. "How long have you two been dating? Twi wasn't very specific on the details back in Rainbow Falls."

"That was supposedly our first date." He moved on to his forelegs. "Not our first kiss, but it wasn't bad."

"I can only wonder." She chuckled. "Good luck on the relay!"

"You too! Hopefully you'll win at least bronze."

"So you just left?" Shield sipped from his root beer mug across from Love, each spending time to get to know each other better at a small cafe near to the arena.

"Yup. Not like I was getting fed at home, so I decided to strike out on my own." She tapped the side of her glass with a talon. "Had to do a lot of uncomfortable things just to get by. Petty thievery, prostitution, extra muscle. That last one actually got me into mercenary work."

"Must of been hard, being forced into such things so young." He turned his mug a bit. "Regret anything from those days?"

She took a minute to think, furrowing her brow at the memory. "I regret this one time I was serving as extra muscle for some loan-shark. Beat a pregnant griff to a pulp because she owed a lot of money. I don't know if she had the fledgling, but I tried to avoid hitting that part of her."

"Yikes. That's something I'd only hear about on the news from some far corner of Equestria." He took another sip. "The only thing I regret from my rebellious years was not making more friends. I had my best buddy, and that was about it."

"Never thought about relationship stuff?" She turned her eyes up to him. "Never felt like you missed out?"

"Not really. I've never been one for civilian life." He sighed. "I do regret becoming a captain, though. It's not easy to be friends with your subordinates. I was friends with Pansy and Broken Dawn, but those friendships were kept professional. At least until Dawn screwed himself over by screwing the queen and came under my command." Shield chuckled, shaking his head in amusement at the memory.

"I gave up on relationships a long time ago." Love stared at the juice in her glass. "I got pregnant during that prostitution period, even managed to track down the customer responsible. I was willing to put aside my rebelliousness, then and there, but they weren't. Six stab wounds to the belly later, the thought of having a family was a distant memory."

Shield shook his head, breathing out the small spike of anger that shot through him. "Sounds like Griffonia is a lot worse than how its usually portrayed."

"It's bad, but Featherbin was particularly bad. I won't ever regret leaving that pit of Tartarus. After that, I got into serving as hired muscle. There were a lot of things I didn't like doing, but I tried my best to show a little kindness here and--"

"All guards, report in!" Scuttle's voice came over the earpieces. "We have a situation! Report to the stadium ASAP! And try not to make yourself seen for Somnia's sake!"

"Sounds like duty calls." Shield and Love gulped down the rest of their drinks.

"On your marks! Get set!" Shining Armor raised the flag in the air, his voice amplified into the arena. "GO!"

The contestants set off into flight, most of them speeding their way through the obstacles. From the royal stands, Twilight and Somnia watched in eager anticipation, each cheering for a different town.

Somnia watched intensely as the relay got hoofed off to Sadist Moon, Ponyville lagging significantly behind the rest of the competitors. Not that it would matter with Rainbow Dash in the last third.

"WOO! GO HOLLOW SHADES!" Somnia called out. They couldn't hear her, but it still felt good to cheer for them considering how few ponies likely did. She hadn't seen any other thestrals since arriving in the Crystal City except for the four from Hollow Shades who were competing. Maybe it was just too much of an inconvenience to come on such short notice, or maybe it was just too expensive. Either one would explain it.

Just before the horseshoe was hoofed over to Duskwing, Somnia's eyes instinctively shut. "No. No no nonoNONO!" She shouted as she watched the events play out before her, her eyes tearing up. This is the dream where mom dies...

"Somnia? Are you seeing somethin--"

A bright flash followed by the deafening roar of an explosion drowned her out. Twilight barely had time to cover her head from the stray bits of debris before the crowd erupted into complete mania. Quickly jumping over her mother's lap, Somnia barely dodged a barrage of laser fire from the crowd, showering Twilight in the bits of crystal as the throne next to her was blown to pieces.

Somnia propelled herself from Celestia's leg-rest directly into Luna, forcing her down as a stray laser managed to blow apart the top of the throne where her head formerly was. Barely having enough to time to understand what has happening, Twilight tried to raise a shield, her eyes widening in realization: The magic-nullification field was in effect.

"MOVE!" Celestia grabbed Twilight and rushed her to the exit so they could get into the cover of inside. Just before she passed the threshold, Twilight saw the relay teams scatter, some pegasi flying to intercept-- Sweet Celestia... Her heart sank at the sight of armed mercenaries flying over the stadium walls, changelings dive-bombing the crowd. It was Cadance and Shining Armor's wedding all over again.

Twilight didn't even see where Somnia was before another problem reared its ugly head. The guard in front of her got impaled by a thrown spear, another of their guards deflecting a second with their armored leggings. Down the hall, she caught a glimpse of a few traitor guards and their mercenary allies before Celestia whisked her in the opposite direction, nearly dislocating her fellow princess' shoulder.

Ponies poured in from the outside as they went down one level, encountering the mercenaries engaged with crystal guards waiting for them. It was complete mayhem. Celestia rushed Twilight forward past the terrified ponies of the upper stands until they reached where a few Crystal Guards stood at the ready. From the direction they had come, several more guards came rushing over with Cadance, Luna, and Somnia in their protection, albeit the guards showed signs of combat.

The wall to the outside next to them blew open, knocking Twilight and Celestia over from the shockwave. The armed ponies and griffons from outside charged the defenseless princesses.

From the arena outside, a rainbow blur crashed at full speed into one of the mercenaries, sending them skidding across the floor as the mare stood atop their crumpled form. A slightly battered and bloodied Rainbow Dash stood atop the body, a fire in her eyes Twilight had only ever seen on a few occasions. Two other blurs made contact with the now at-the-ready mercs, although far too late to mount a defense.

Standing between her and her attackers were Rainbow Dash, Duskwing, and Spitfire.

"MOM!" Somnia rushed to her as the altercation began between the mercs and the defenders. More mercs came from both sides, the limited guards they had taking up defensive positions. They were surrounded on three sides, cornered against the wall.

Steel wing-blades against barely armed ponies didn't fare well. Guards were cut down before her eyes, barely able to mount a defense without the unicorns providing shields. Rainbow Dash impacted her adversary, going straight for the the throat.

Twilight shrunk back as Rainbow took a nasty gash along her flank, but managing to impact the merc's throat with her hoof, pushing them to the ground and... grabbing the mercs head to break their neck.

Spitfire and Duskwing had picked up weapons from fallen guards to keep their attackers at bay with limited success. Several changelings flew through the opening, firing lasers at anything that moved.

A scream rang out as something jumped in front of her and the barrage, knocking Twilight over and tumbling into the hard crystal wall behind with an audible impact. Raising her eyes, she could see the broken form of her daughter in a slowly expanding pool of blood. Her heart pounded loud enough to drown out the sounds of combat around her, her ears ringing as everything blurred together.

A griffon jumped straight for her as she shakily got up, its wing close enough to decapitate her with its wing blades. Another pony jumped between them, using their own body as a shield and splattering blood over Twilight. They received a gash straight up their body from flank to collar but managed to plunge a spear directly into the griffon, sending their body straight over Twilight to skid to a halt on the crystal floor. She couldn't even focus on what was happening anywhere else as she saw Duskwing fall over.

"NO!" She cried out, cradling his rapidly bleeding form. His intestines were exposed to the open air, his rib cage having prevented it from outright killing him.

"Y-You're welcome, p-princess..." He tried chuckling as he collapsed, coughing up blood and his eyes fluttering shut.

"GET UP! STAY AWAKE, DAMNIT!" Her cries were answered as a bright light came from the hole the changelings had made, temporarily distracting mercenary and guard alike. Several of the mercenaries were immediately shot down by magic blasts or crossbow bolts before they could even turn to the new combatants.

In a blitz of fury, four figures moved from the light directly into the mercs. Her eyes saw the head of an attacking pony down the hall blow to pieces with a loud bang as a hoof made contact from the side, the guardian angel unhooking their compact spear to disembowel another in flourishing spin. Shields were erected around her and the other princesses as a unicorn sealed them away from the fight, a strange device on their horn.

She realized who they were in that moment. The entire world seemed to move in slow motion as she saw the changeling and griffon relieve the defending guards, stabbing their way into the enemy lines without mercy or concern for themselves, the earth pony mare among them using her spear as a vaulting pole to impact another, crushing their skull against a pillar in sickening crunch. The thestral used their wing to cut the arm off an attacking griffon before spinning to decapitate them.

Redirecting their magic, Shield forcefully broke the disabling spell from Cadance's horn. "Get to the queen! NOW!"

The Princess of Love didn't hesitate as she moved to the limp form of the filly while Shield broke the other princess' disabling enchantments while simultaneously holding the shield, horn amplifier sparking from the exertion. Luna and Celestia moved to Duskwing, both igniting their horns to try their best to stop the bleeding.

All Twilight could do was sit next to them, her mind shutting down at the level of violence thrust upon her and her family. The shield was dropped a few short seconds later, Shield firing off a barrage of laser fire of his own at an encroaching group of changelings from the outside, blowing the wing off of one and decapitating another.

Her vision shifted to Scuttle, Love, Dawn, and Dusty all engaged with the internal threats, blood and limbs strewn across the floor as the mercs were pushed back with not even a chance to flee, and those that did were shot in the back by Love and Scuttle without mercy. Finally reaching her breaking point, she turned away from the macabre display and threw up, her vision going dark in the process.

Before she opened her eyes, she could hear the distant panicked yelling out in the hallways and the sound of heart rate monitor. Slowly fluttering her eyes open, Twilight saw that she was in a chair leaned against a deflated pink pony. Across from her was a hospital bed containing--

"Somnia!" Twilight got up, shaking a bit on her hooves as she made her way to the bed. The filly had minor bruising on their face, but her back half was completely covered in bandages and she had a wrap around her head.

"Twilight! Yer awake!" Applejack called from behind, moving up next to her. "Didn't know how long ya would be out, so we brought ya here."

"I-Is she alright?" Twilight's eyes followed the bandages down to the hooves. Both back hooves were still there, and relatively untouched, providing some relief.

"Doc says she took a nasty hit to her back legs an' head. Prob'ly won't be walkin' properly for several weeks even with magic. They said they don't know how bad the hit to her head was." Applejack rubbed Twilight's back while Pinkie moved up next to her.

Twilight let out a shaky sigh. Her own daughter threw herself in the way to save her. And--

"Duskwing! How's he doing?!" Twilight grabbed her farmer friend. "Please tell me--"

"Still in surgery." Applejack answered with heavy regret. "Too soon to tell."

Her eyes misted over. "P-Please--"

"Shhh... They'll both be alright." Applejack hugged her, the party pony joining in as she sobbed into the orange fur of her friend. "No sense waitin' around here. Som will be out for another hour at least with what the doc gave her."

"Rainbow Dash will be happy to see you're awake." Pinkie nudged her along, despite her hesitation.

"I-I want to stay here in case she wakes up." Twilight said firmly, her teary eyes and quivering mouth giving all the certainty for her friends.

"We know." Applejack gave her one last tired smile before the two earth ponies left the room. Twilight grabbed Somnia's hoof and held on, her mind replaying the nightmare that unfolded again and again. She just stood there, helpless without her magic. She closed her eyes and kept seeing how she stood by while others fought to keep her safe, silently cursing herself for her uselessness.

A light knock on the door a few minutes later startled her. "Come in?"

Stepping in the room were Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and the CMC, all looking like they went through Tartarus. Rainbow had a large bandage along her back leg and a few smaller spots, limping towards her. Rarity's mane was uncharacteristically messy, and the CMC all looked anxious, their moods not being improved by the sight of their friend in the hospital bed.

"Thanks for coming to see me, good to know you care." Rainbow teased, sitting next to Twilight. "You doing alright?"

"No... None of this should have happened..." She laid her head on the sheets, tears wetting them as she looked up at Somnia's face, hoping she would wake up so she could know her daughter was alright.

"Nothing you could have done, darling. Nopony knew what was going to happen." Rarity comforted on her other side while the CMC moved to the opposite side of the bed.

"Is she going to be alright?" Sweetie asked concerned.

"Of course she is! She took worse hits than that!" Scootaloo replied confidently.

"She'll have trouble walking for the next few weeks." Twilight mumbled back.

"Ah take it Somnia Time is cancelled?" Apple Bloom asked, disappointment leaking from her voice.

"She won't be able to get up and down the stairs or move around to help you." Twilight answered sadly. "We can still continue Twilight Time, though. I'll be staying home to keep an eye on her."

"Sorry that this happened, Twi." Rainbow put a comforting hoof on her shoulder. "I know it's probably going to be a rough couple of weeks."

"Did anypony else get hurt?" Twilight looked up, hoping that the damage wasn't--

"A few hundred." Rarity regretfully said, rubbing one of her forelegs. "Even more hurt during the panic. The city is under marshal law and ponies have been instructed to only come to the hospital if it's an emergency. We were able to enter because of who we are, but nopony else is getting visitors."

"Fleetfoot..." Rainbow gave a heavy sigh. "She lost a wing and crashed into the stands. Docs said her spine was permanently damaged, nothing they can do but manage the pain. Can't walk on her two back hooves, and can't fly." She silently cursed the entire event under her breath, turning away from Twilight. "And Soarin was pretty hurt, but he'll be flying again in a week or two. I'm just glad Fluttershy got out before she was hurt." Swallowing her feelings, she turned back with a forced smile. "Gotta look on the bright-side, y'know?"

The group sat in silence for a few more minutes, the occasional conversation striking up between the CMCs until everypony except Twilight left for the cafeteria. She stayed. She needed to be there when Somnia woke up.

Damage report?

Bad. Neurological functions were compromised when you cracked your skull on the wall. Not enough to kill you, gratefully, but enough to induce a coma.

Is there a way to bypass natural functions to make use of my soul like you or Excalion did?

Not without you being able to do it on your own. There's very little I can do to help, unfortunately.

Well what can you do?

I could try healing your brain, but that would take days of concentration. If Excalion knew, she could perform the task within a day. I'm afraid the brain damage is going to compromise certain functions until then.

Such as?

Vision, smell, touch, etc. Your senses will be greatly distorted until the brain can be fully healed.

Seriously? Isn't there some other way?

Theoretically, yes, but we don't have access to your magical potential. If we did, we wouldn't be in this situation.

Is there a way to speed it up? Make it so I can get my power faster?

Grar went silent for a minute, thinking about it. There was a contingency in such a case, but are you sure you want to skip these formative years? They are a treasure trove of experience, and you would have more responsibilities given to you.

I'll take that sacrifice if it means being able to stop ponies from getting hurt. You saw the explosion, at least a hundred ponies must have died! Nopony deserves to lose a loved one like that.

I'll speak to Excalion when we get back about fixing your brain, and have her reach out to Isirilas to see if they have any idea where the catalysts are.

Thanks. Can you fix enough of my brain so I can at least wake up?

Slowly opening her eyes, she was greeted by a whole lot of blurs and the smell she couldn't quite recognize.

"Somnia?" A slightly distorted voice of her mother spoke up. "Are you awake?"

"Yeah." The filly closed her eyes, content to stew in the darkness. "Can you get me home as soon as possible?"

"Of course, sweetie." Somnia felt some pressure on her cheek, likely a hoof. "Are you feeling alright?"

"Besides the numb pain from my lower half, I can't see."

"Y-You--"

"Need to see Excalion. She'll fix the brain damage. Don't worry, my memory is safe."

"Oh..." A bit of pressure was applied to her right forehoof. "I was so worried it was going to be permanent."

"Nothing is permanent if you have the knowledge, determination, and capability to get it done." Somnia giggled, getting a cough or two at the end. "The world looks like a blur, I'm smelling something I can't recognize, and everything has a warped sound to it. The sooner I get back, the better."

"Alright, I'll talk to the doctor about getting you transferred to Ponyville General Hospital for the ride back."

"Do I still got my legs? I'm having some trouble feeling anything except pain and pressure."

"Yes, they're both there. You took a laser to the flank and it must have passed through one leg into the other." She briefly paused. "Do you mind if I go for an hour or two?"

"I'm not going anywhere, and it's not like we can play charades." The filly joked with a smile. "Go. I'll be fine."

"Thank you. I'll be back before you know it."

Somnia listened to a sound that was most likely the door closing. Sighing, her thoughts lazily drifted by. While she was stuck in bed, she might as well be productive.

Before reaching the cafeteria, Twilight was intercepted by a crystal guard, telling her that an escort was waiting outside to take her to the castle where the princesses were holding an emergency summit. While she wanted to see her friends, royal duties came first.

The streets on the way to the castle were practically empty, only guards and workers rushing around, every pony a guard coming across being scanned in case they were a changeling. The escort took her into the castle towards the large meeting hall, at the center of which were the other princesses and Shining Armor. She took her seat next to Cadance and waited for somepony to start the discussion.

"Thank you for coming, Twilight." Celestia finally spoke after a minute of silence. "It wasn't our intention to separate you from Somnia, but there are things that must be discussed." She paused, Twilight slowly nodding in understanding.

"The Duke of Maretania is dead, and the Duchess of Saddle Arabia has suffered injuries as well." Celestia regretfully continued. "Relations between Equestria and these external territories will be severely strained, perhaps to the breaking point considering the topic of the royal summit in a few days time. Negotiations for additional military assistance against threats within Zebrica have been cancelled until a replacement for the duke has been selected, which is going to prolong the diplomatic unrest towards Equestria. I know this is a lot to ask of you considering what happened to Somnia in the past few weeks--"

"What do you mean weeks?" Shining Armor interrupted. "Did something happen before I wasn't told about?"

"I didn't want to tell you while you prepared the city for the Equestria Games." Cadance admitted, wrapping a hoof around one of his legs while she leaned over. "She had been foalnapped and injured quite badly."

"In any event," Celestia regained control of the discussion, "Equestria will be severely impacted with the breakdown of relations. The Equestria Games were supposed to be a unifying experience for Equestria and its territories. With this terrorist attack, I'm afraid that national unity is going to be at an all-time low since the recovery period of the Lunar Civil War."

"What do you suggest we do then?" Twilight asked. "The country is already on edge after everything that's happened the past two months."

Celestia teleported sheets of papers in front of each of the princesses present. "We force the reforms. If all four of us and the other Elements of Harmony sign this royal decree, the regency council will come into full effect, the Noble's Council will be dissolved, and the wayward branch of the monarchy will be delegitimized. Somnia will officially become known as 'Queen of Equestria', and our hold over the country will be secured. The different municipalities of Equestria will willingly accept these changes, as they do not have loyalty to the nobility. I've spoken to Lord Fancy Pants, Mayor Oaks, Mayor Mare, and Councilor Dongle about this, and they all have agreed to declare in support."

"This is your solution? A power-grab when the country is looking for stability?" Cadance spoke up, her anger faintly noticeable.

"Understand that it is better to get it out of the way now rather than deal with the nobility's obstruction when the common pony isn't willing to accept a radical change." She gently smiled to each of the ponies across from her. "If I don't do this, then Somnia will when she's old enough. I doubt that her method would be much better."

"She's not like that!" Twilight protested. "She's not going to be some despot who rules by decree!"

"You're right, she'll be even worse." Celestia frowned. "She would wage a civil war if that's what it took for her to emerge on top. Excalion has told my sister and I about the Grand Council, how they used their authority and power to make others fall in line without recourse. She's no different from them, even if she doesn't realize it. A would-be tyrant not dissimilar to Queen Chrysalis but with the magical prowess to back it up."

"Shouldn't she be here for this?" Cadance straightened up. "If she's going to be the queen, then wouldn't it make sense to have her in on these meetings?"

"She'll find out about it after we put it in place. Nopony will take her signature seriously anyway." Celestia waved her hoof dismissively. "The princesses and the Elements of Harmony on the other hoof do have the recognition within the public eye to convince ponies it is in their best interests. Wouldn't some civil unrest now be better than a war down the line? This is a show of unity for all of Equestria, that we are devoted to keeping them safe and free."

"Will the territories have a say in this?" Cadance followed up slightly concerned. "The other three will probably reject it and declare independence if we do this without discussing it with them."

"They will either fall in line now or later." Celestia answered. "Right now we're giving them the choice, and they may have a few good years before Somnia marches on them."

"Again, what makes you so sure she's going to be some sort of warlord?" Twilight called out frustrated. "She wants to see ponies live long and happy lives, not send them off to war!"

"Twilight..." Celestia leaned in, her eyes piercing directly through her fellow princess. "Somnia is the army. Nopony will fight against a pony that could wipe out entire mountain ranges as if they were a mere inconvenience or summon hundreds of copies of herself to perform an invasion across an entire country all at once. She won't need a professional army behind her to force nations to surrender, especially once she makes an example out of one."

"This is still a bit unbelievable." Cadance chimed in. "You keep saying that she will have unimaginable magical potential but you haven't shown us any proof. Powerful, that's undeniable, but that powerful?"

"You didn't see her." Luna finally spoke up, staring at the table in front of her. "She's a product of desperation made by forces beyond our comprehension. I watched as ponies bowed to her power, willingly pledging themselves to her cause without a shred of doubt. I've seen the resurgence in Hollow Shades with my own eyes. They will fight for her to the death, and that was when she can't even control that power. She possesses the power of domination without side-effects or mental resistance. You can't counter a spell that isn't cast, break an enchantment that doesn't exist. I dread what she will be capable of when she does start getting control of her power. Nopony would stand against her, not because it would be a lost fight, but because they simply wouldn't."

"I'm still having a hard time believing any of this." Shining Armor spoke. "Princess Luna, are you absolutely certain? Has anypony measured it directly?"

"They can't." Celestia interjected. "Twilight tried that at Ponyville General Hospital and Somnia's strength just beneath the surface exceeded all other alicorns and the Elements of Harmony combined."

"Then how are we going to deal with her if she becomes a tyrant?"

"She won't." Twilight protested. "She's not like that."

"Ponies can--"

"Yes, ponies can change." Twilight cut her brother off. "But she already has a mindset that works for her, and wants ponies to be both safe and free. And Grar is making sure she stays on that path."

"I didn't mean to suggest she will become a tyrant. I merely want to know if we have some way to stop her or somepony like her just in case." Shining clarified.

"The closest thing would be the Elements of Harmony or the Tree of Harmony, and their power isn't even on the same scale." Celestia shook her head. "This is why I've been trying to get her to adjust her behavior to be compatible with everypony's best interests before she becomes unmanageable."

"Does she even want to rule?" Cadance asked uncertainly. "Why do we need to force her to rule if she doesn't want to?"

The regal sisters cast looks to each other, communicating the same thing before Luna replied. "Would you let ponies suffer if you had a chance to stop it? Would you be content to sit back when you had all the power in the universe in your hooves? Twilight, you know what she is like, what motivates her. You know as well as we do that she will do what it takes to bring an end to wars, to bring every creature under her protection. Either we get her aligned with us, or we dispose of her permanently. If we do nothing, then she will return stronger than we could ever deal with."

"She is not merely content to accept things as they are." Celestia continued. "It is who she is that we made these plans, that our mother and father did. Excalion called it an inevitability when she grows up, that nothing would stop her from carrying out her destiny." She straightened up in her chair, casting her eyes over the three other attendees. "We need to get her aligned with Equestria's interests, or she needs to die. There is no compromise."

Shield stood in the royal stands of the colosseum, gazing out over the recovery efforts taking place. A massive gaping hole with smoke billowing out was to the left of the beacon platform providing half the story of what occurred, the bloodied stands and halls the other half. Many of the bodies were still being accounted for. Cross-referencing the attendee lists with those that reported their safe exit gave a rough figure that still wasn't good enough.

Entire families had been killed by the explosion. It was a dark day, in spite of the sunny weather and clear night skies. Nopony would leave without remembering what happened at the 1003 P.B. Equestria Games.

"Shield?" Dusty came up from behind, standing next to him and surveying the arena. "Not the best place for fresh air, don't you think?"

"I came to get the preliminary estimates." He sighed. "One-thousand-two-hundred ponies so far."

"Yikes." She stayed silent for another couple of minutes, thinking it over. Crews moved around the large hole, lanterns hung all around it to illuminate the area to work through the night. "Do you regret not being here for the queen?"

"Yeah." He turned to her. "But nothing can be done now. She ordered us to keep our distance, and we carried it out until everything went to Tartarus. I can't imagine what would have happened if Scuttle didn't discover the unusual presence ahead of time."

"He did good work. We all did." She smiled to him. "Everypony will know of the brave guards that lost their lives today, but those who lived won't get the glory."

"There's no glory in this." He turned back to the arena at large. Near the hole, crews used construction cranes to lift rubble from the stands that had collapsed. The chief recovery officer told him that there were still some ponies calling out for help in the rubble. It would take months of constant effort to get the arena back to how it was at the start of the games, but the horrible memory would remain.

Probably will erect a memorial in the entrance atrium in remembrance of those lost. Unfortunately for the athletes, the Equestria Games were cancelled, meaning the events remaining will be left up in the air. Everypony needed a win, a show of unity. Instead, they got... this.

But that still left a few questions: Who could have orchestrated the attack? And who was the target?

Twilight wheeled Somnia into the room where her father was being kept. She had already come to say her piece before, not wanting to burst into a fit of crying with her daughter present. While Somnia shouldn't be sitting, she wanted to 'see' her dad before heading back to Ponyville.

After parking the wheelchair next to the bed, Twilight went next to her daughter as she looked him over. One of his sides was completely covered in partially bloody bandages, neck to tail. A feeding tube went into his mouth and several other machines were keeping him alive, an unfortunate consequence of the massive blood loss. The doctor's had said that they managed to trap his brain in a stasis field before it suffered damage, but that was only a temporary solution until his body healed sufficiently. If his body healed sufficiently.

"That bad, huh?" She coyly smiled to Twilight with the same tone as when Twilight and Duskwing had spoken in Rainbow Falls.

"Somnia, is he going to be alright?" She asked, hoping that her daughter would have some insight.

"Yeah, he'll live." She grabbed her dad's hoof. "It's going to be a while before he's awake though." Biting her tongue, she remembered the crystal interior, not too dissimilar to the Crystal Spire. Something was going to happen, but the dreams she had weren't very specific as to when they took place, only that they were in the future based on the scar.

"Is it a good memory?" Twilight leaned down to her, grabbing her foreleg. "I know that smile."

"Yeah, it is." She wistfully said, her heart fluttering a bit at the sight of her dad with a wing around her mom, their heads leaned against one another.

Author's Note

If anyone knows what the CMC were holding is called, please let me know.

Also, what is that internal part of the stadium? I know the vomitoria lead out into the stands, so what does it bridge from?

Chapter 21: Unbroken

Sitting up, Somnia sighed at the surrounding sight. The forest. It’s always the damn forest.

“Should I stay here or...?” she asked to nopony in particular. She often didn’t have repeating dreams, but this is one she was all too familiar with: her anchor vision. A few specters weaved between the white-barked trees ahead of her, eying her with curiosity and soothing affection. Wiping her hooves on the silver grass that was softer than the highest quality cloud beds, she stood up and walked toward the golden forest’s edge.

She braced herself for yet another rejection, a few of the closest wisps stopping to watch. Somnia took a deep breath at the edge of the forest and stepped forward...

Waiting in front of the library for Twilight was an unexpected guest. It had been two days since the attack, everypony having returned to Ponyville the following night. Celestia had spoken to Somnia before they left, taking Dawn with her back to where Twilight assumed was Canterlot, but now it became clear where Dawn went.

“Um, i-is it alright?” The colt asked, uncertain at Twilight’s hesitation.

“Huh? Oh, yeah, come on in.” Twilight stepped out of the way of Nightwind, letting him enter the library with Dawn following behind.

“Sorry about not telling you earlier. I thought Somnia would have mentioned it.” The stallion apologized.

“It’s no problem. I know Duskwing will be in the Crystal City while he recovers, and this will be a great opportunity to get to learn about my nephew.”

“Where am I sleeping?” Nightwind turned back, still nervous about the sudden change in arrangements.

“I would have you sleep in Somnia’s bed, but since she’s still recovering, I think that you sleeping in mine will be alright, if you’re comfortable with that.” Twilight leaned down to eye level, squinting. “I don’t hog the sheets or snore.”

“Y-Yeah, that’s fine.” He turned and began looking around the library. Twilight had locked the door to the basement after returning from the Crystal City so Somnia didn’t get any bright ideas. Somnia’s bed was also put onto the lower level of the bedroom while she moved Spike’s back up top, much to his relief.

“I need to turn in for the day. I’ll see you later tonight.” Dawn lazily saluted before leaving. Nightwind wasn’t what Twilight was expecting. She expected somepony with a strength of will rivaling Somnia, somepony she could see Somnia being intimate with, but he was by far her inferior in terms of confidence.

“Is the bedroom upstairs?” He finally asked after having inspected the main floor.

“I use the top floor as the bedroom.” Twilight led him up the stairs and into the room, eyed by her daughter off to the side. “Our bed is on the upper level.”

“I didn’t take you for that type.” Somnia commented from her bed.

“I would give him to you, but you need to recover.” Twilight rolled her eyes. “I could have gotten another bed prepared if somepony had told me ahead of time.”

“Where’s the fun in that?”

“Um, is that a dragon?” Nightwind pointed to the purple and green baby dragon reading a comic book next to Somnia’s bed.

“Spike!” Twilight waved him over. “This is Nightwind, Somnia’s cousin. Nightwind, this is my number-one assistant and my adopted son, Spike.”

“Nice to meet you!” Spike held out a claw, which Nightwind shook after a moment of hesitation. “If you need anything, you can come to either me or Twilight. Don’t worry, I don’t bite.”

“Don’t dragons eat ponies, though?” Nightwind shirked back a bit at the flinch from the two creatures nearest to him.

“What? No, I don’t eat ponies. I’ve grown up with ponies my entire life!” Spike reassured him. “Maybe other dragons eat ponies, but I don’t.”

“You have nothing to worry about. Spike is a part of the family. You’ll get used to him.” Twilight patted Nightwind’s head. “Is there anything I can do for you while I’m here? I have to run some errands in town, so if you want anything picked up, then tell me now.”

“No, I’m good.” He looked around the room. “Where’s the fiction books?”

Twilight showed him around the different sections of the library before grabbing her saddlebags and leaving. The colt took a book from the fiction shelf, returning upstairs to read on the shared bed. A few minutes later, Spike left to go see somepony named ‘Rarity’, leaving him alone with Somnia.

The book was an adventure novel involving a pegasus renowned as ‘the bravest pony in Equestria’, swinging and fighting their way through the southern jungles to stop the ambitions of a greedy doctor and tyrannical beast. Both continued to read their separate books for a while longer, until movement downstairs caught the colt’s attention. Before he could even get to the stairs to the lower level, the door to the room opened, and he froze in place.

Stepping into the room was a timber wolf, its eyes bright, glowing a sickly green and its mouth shut with something glowing green within. It approached the wounded filly, speaking a language Nightwind didn’t understand. While Somnia spoke back in the same language, Nightwind watched on in terror and fascination.

Excalion paid me a visit saying that you wished to speed up the process? Isirilas asked from their timber wolf messenger.

“Yeah. What do you know about the catalysts?” Somnia sat up a bit more in bed.

Not much. They were the gemstones in the Excalicorn Amulet, removed by Princess Stellar Shimmer after the fall. She traveled the world to give some hope for the fractured creatures. If you want to know how they were made, I would suggest speaking to Grogar.

“So what do they do? I’ve seen the amulet before, but they seemed decorative other than the big one.”

These are no mere decorations, little one. Each provided energy for the wearer of the amulet to use, making them nearly unbeatable. The old queen kept peace through strength, much as you will. But that is merely the history. I’m uncertain what they will do for you without the amulet.

They are catalysts designed to give Somnia a jump-start to her powers. Grar answered. Merely bringing them close to her will cause them to be absorbed into her soul. Do you know of where the others are?

I do not. The princess was unwilling to share the locations for the others. She gave me this one, but the others are a mystery to me. I suspect the centaurs and griffons each received one; however, I do not know where they may be.

“One is better than none.” Somnia shrugged. “Is that’s what’s glowing in your mouth?”

The timber wolf opened its mouth to reveal the small, brilliant glowing green gemstone. Somnia couldn’t tear her eyes away from the stone, her mind receiving whispers she couldn’t even understand.

I’m glad to see the story was true. The timber wolf stepped forward, bring its jaws close enough for her to reach in and grab the stone. The moment her hoof made contact, she closed her eyes. All around her, the air sparked with magical energy, lifting the stone before her.

Within seconds, the stone disintegrated and flowed into her very being, sending shivers running through her body and soul as the power within her unlocked. In that instant, she returned to forever, catching glimpses of existence at its very core.

Then it was all over. She opened her eyes to see the timber wolf back away, its eye glow diminished to only a slight glow.

This is unexpected. I can’t read your thoughts anymore. Grar commented.

“A bolstering of the soul, from what Princess Stellar explained.” The timber wolf growled out, its voice needing physical transmission. “It served its purpose for me. Now I can only hope that you will make the most of it.”

“That’s why you lived so long...” Somnia whispered back. Her eyes adjusted to the surrounding environment. Beneath the physical sight was something else, blurred but not in the way of normal vision. She closed her eyes and beheld the world clearer than before.

Tendrils attached to the timber wolf from a distant source, wisps of energy flowing through the air in a majestic dance. It was- Is that Nightwind? She focused her new vision on the colt above and to her right. Without having to swivel her head, she could sense everything around her, or the magical impact at least. Nightwind’s soul laid before her, the emotions playing out as clearly as words upon a page.

This is going to take getting used to. She thought, directing it so that – she hoped – Grar could hear.

You’re telling me. I only assumed it would unlock your power, not change your very essence to something I can’t even recognize.

Isn’t this soul encryption? I remember you telling me something about that.

This is more advanced. You can detect and break soul encryption. This is indestructible and invisible.

“I’m sorry, but I must return this messenger to the forest. I cannot sustain its form much longer without the stone’s energy.” The timber wolf made one last bow before retreating through the doorway.

“W-What–“

“Happened?” Somnia’s smile grew, opening her eyes to look at the colt. “You don’t need to be scared. Isirilas is a good friend. He wouldn’t hurt you.”

Nightwind made his way down the stairs toward her at a cautious pace. “The stone just broke into pieces and flowed into you!”

Closing her eyes again, she examined the world around her. She could make out the faint traces of ponies in the neighboring buildings. Each one had a distinct imprint, but all sharing certain small characteristics. She could tell what type of pony they were only by the arrangement of their soul. It was a completely new sense.

“You’re still scared.” Somnia said with some amusement in her voice.

“What? N-No, I’m not!” Nightwind denied in a futile attempt.

“You are. And now you’re even more anxious. It’s so easy to read you now! Surprise, fear, embarrassment.” She reopened her eyes, lids half closed. “Come on~ I can see all of your emotions.”

“W-What do you mean you can see them?” He moved back a short distance.

“I see them. It’s like another form of sight or smell. It’s kinda difficult to describe.” She rubbed the back of her head before going back to the smirk. “Yes, I can tell when you’re feeling attraction. And from the looks of it, it’s toward the one filly that feels the same way.”

“HUH?!” He looked around nervous. “I, uh, g-gotta go–“

“Where? You arrived in Ponyville two hours ago.” She gave a short giggle, patting the bed next to her. “Please?”

The colt walked toward her and sat down at the edge of the bed, keeping his eyes from her to stare at the floor. Somnia was the first to speak. “Back in Excalicorn, we used to be very close. Since your parents weren’t around, my mom and dad took care of you. You were one of the few other ponies around my age they allowed me to talk to besides Fae. We liked the simplicity of our relationship. I would take charge. You would follow.”

He nodded, still not understanding. “Did we ever–“

“Kiss?” She grabbed his cheek and turned his head toward her. “Many times. We even fooled around more than once, sometimes getting in trouble because of it. You were older back then, but not by much.” He scooted closer to her since she couldn’t move from her position. “Why do you like me?”

“I, um...” Nightwind hadn’t actually thought about that. It just seemed to be a crush.

The filly next to him let out another giggle. “You didn’t know when I asked you back then, either. It’s okay, I understand. You’ll come to understand why, and I accept it...” She leaned close to his muzzle, closing her eyes and whispering: “With all my heart.”

With a single motion, she kissed him, his eyes going wide at the suddenness of the simple act, before he relaxed into it. The door then opened and in came trotting Twilight with a bag in her magic grasp. “I got you some more... Oh.”

Nightwind pushed away from Somnia. “S-She–“

Twilight silenced him with a raised hoof. “It’s okay, I know.” She walked over and sat down next to him, the colt looking away, embarrassed. “Somnia explained enough to me. Try not to get her pregnant before you’re married, alright?”

“P-Pregnant?!” He fell from the bed, getting a laugh out of the filly. “We haven’t done anything like that!”

“Yet.” Twilight winked at him. “Knowing colts, and who Somnia is, you’ll be spending a lot of time alone together.”

“Mooom.” Somnia whined. “Quit arousing him!”

“Isn’t that what you want?” Twilight rubbed her head, both having a short laugh. “How are you even able to tell?”

Somnia closed her eyes and focused on her mother. Playful, curious, happy, and underneath it all, anxious. “What are you anxious about?”

“What? I’m not anxious.” Twilight denied as she floated over the bag. Somnia watched the tendrils extend from her horn to the bag, surrounding it in her grasp. “What makes you think I’m anxious?”

“Is it dad?” She asked, getting a small spike of emotion from her mother. “Knew it.”

“He’ll be alright, I’m sure of it.” She patted Somnia’s hoof. “But how did you know?”

“I can see it. Your curiosity mixed with suspicion, now some surprise. Isirilas stopped by to give me something to speed up getting my powers. I can now see every soul within about twenty poni and what they are feeling. I don’t even need my eyes to see your emotions have become internal. Means you’re thinking, right?”

“Yeah.” Twilight admitted, providing a light smile back at her. “This is going to make it a lot harder to hide secrets from you.”

“I’ll try acting surprised.”

“D-Did you know she was coming back?!” Nightwind asked from the floor.

“Yup.” Somnia opened her eyes and looked down at him. “You’re pretty handsome when you’re embarrassed.”

He blushed and got up to go back to the bed upstairs. “Quit teasing him.” Twilight shook her head. “Colts can’t help themselves when fillies compliment them.”

“Neither can fillies.” Somnia added. “This is going to be fun to explore. I even got three test subjects!”

“Don’t go overboard now. Ponies don’t like it when others can see more about them than they want revealed.”

“Princess Twilight, your presence is requested in Canterlot.” The guard hoofed her a scroll with the royal seal of Celestia. She thought it was odd that they didn’t send it through Spike. Unfolding the letter, she skimmed over it, disappointed with how bare bones it was.

“Do you- Oh, who am I kidding?” Twilight let out a pent-up sigh, following the guard to the waiting chariot but not before calling back inside: “Nightwind, Somnia! I’m heading to Canterlot! Be back later today! Love you!”

Upstairs on her bed, Nightwind raised his head. “Did you hear that?”

“Kinda.” Somnia shrugged. “Something about Canterlot.” She closed her eyes involuntarily. There weren’t any dangers, especially not what she was seeing. “Nightwind, Somnia. I’m heading to Canterlot. Be back later today. Love you.” She repeated the words from the vision, reopening her eyes. “Huh.”

“Did you make that up?” He raised a brow.

“No, I just saw it... I just saw it!” She closed her eyes again and focused on the past few seconds. There wasn’t much she could gleam besides Nightwind putting down his comic book and asking her two questions, but there were some interesting quirks associated.

She looked even further back. As far as she could go was up to a minute prior. What about other places? She tried imagining one of the neighboring houses, using the pony inside as the focus. The indoors formed as if it were real; the pony sitting at their kitchen table filling in a crossword puzzle. She kept probing further, finding that only localized events within her soul-sight she could see.

“Is that something new?” Nightwind asked from above.

Didn’t almost thirty seconds pass? Why is his response only being processed now? She returned to the room they were in, examining the time from then until now. It had only been a second or two yet to her it felt like thirty. Her thoughts pushed past the present, and she predicted his next response with a smile on her face.

“Are–“

“Yes, I’m alright.” She opened her eyes and turned up to him. “I can see up to a minute in the past and even into the future!”

“Uh, are–“

“You sure that you can see the future? Yes, I’m absolutely certain.” She squealed. “This is awesome!”

“Oh, then what–“

“You were going to drop your comic onto the ground.” She answered, smirking. “Can’t hide from me anymore.”

“Oh.” He laid back down on the bed. “Can you see my future emotions?”

She closed her eyes again and focused, time going back and forth along in her mind’s eye. Only the physical world was available to her outside the present. Still, it was quite useful to have. Returning to the present, she tried speeding up her thoughts. Breathes became far longer, sounds became more of a stream of noises, compression waves that impacted her ears, picking up far easier.

The world itself seemed to slow down. Even the magical wisps were moving slower. Her sight moved to gaze upon Grar, or rather his soul. It was unlike anything she had seen before, almost like a tumor if it were suddenly removed from a body unchanged with tendrils that wrapped against something. Despite her own soul’s potency, she simply couldn’t see it. It appeared as though Grar was attached to something invisible.

“Sssssoooooommmmmnnnnnniiiiiiaaaaaa?” The drawn out sound of the word was understandable even in such a state. Moving her hoof, she could feel the lethargy of her body against the sudden command. Each muscle receiving their orders, the entire process delayed a fraction of a second after she thought of the motion. She opened her eyes at the speed of a blink, the simple act lasting far longer than it normally did. The world was slowed, even with regular vision.

Rather than live in slow motion, she sped her mind back up to a regular flow, or at least what she hoped was regular. “Have you ever felt individual muscles receiving orders?” She smiled up at him. “It’s so cool!”

“What?”

“I can speed up my mind! I wonder if there’s anything else this allows me to do...” She tried thinking of things to try at the speed of slow. Shaking her head, she turned back to her colt friend. “Nope, nothing yet.”

“That was only a second!”

“It was fifteen for me.” She tapped her head. “Gotta think outside of regular time.”

“Uhhhh... Okay?” He let out a sigh, shaking his head before returning to the comic book.

Unbeknownst to him, Somnia was reading the comic book with her remote sight and slowed time.

This is going to be so much fun!

Returning upstairs to the bedroom, Twilight took a deep breath. Passing through the doorway she spotted the CMC were chatting with Somnia at her bed, a bored Nightwind lounging on a cushion nearby.

“Welcome back!” Somnia waved to her. “Was it a good meeting or a bad meeting?”

“We’ll see.” Twilight walked over to them. “Seems you got visitors. Hello, crusaders.”

“Heya, Twilight!” Apple Bloom greeted. “We were just stoppin’ by to see how she’s doin’. Is he stayin’ with ya?” She motioned toward Nightwind.

“Until his uncle is healthy enough to move to Ponyville, he’ll be staying here.” She nodded. “He’s Somnia’s cousin from one of my other brothers.”

“I didn’t know you had other brothers.” Sweetie gave her a curious look. “Any more family we don’t know about?”

“The regal sisters are my nieces and granddaughters.” Twilight giggled. “It’s pretty weird, I know.”

“That’s awesome!” Scootaloo jumped up onto her hooves. “It’s like you’re an actual royal family, with inbreeding and everything!”

“Nightwind, eyes.” Somnia smirked at him, immediately averting his gaze from the orange area he had been looking at.

“Have you been staring at other fillies, nephew?” Twilight walked over, pushing his head up with her hoof. “That isn’t very gentlecoltly of you.”

Sweetie gave a groan. “He’s insatiable!”

“He’s horny.” Scootaloo corrected with a laugh, sitting back down. “You would notice the colts in our class looking at you if you actually paid attention.”

“Hey! I’m not that popular with them!” Sweetie fussed, blushing.

“Yeah, ya are.” Apple Bloom chuckled. “Why do you think they all sit at the back? Don’t want ya seein’ ‘em.”

“Colts were like that at Celestia’s School For Gifted Unicorns.” Twilight nodded, reminiscing about those days. “I never had time for a coltfriend with my studies. And I wouldn’t have one now if it wasn’t for the fact I technically had a foal with him.”

“Speaking of which,” Scootaloo continued while Twilight walked over to her desk to gather a few things, “Rumble and I have been getting pretty serious. After that gigantic explosion, he wants to keep hanging out with me!”

“I’m sure he’s just scared.” Apple Bloom dismissed. “We were all scared by it.”

“Well, yeah, but he was really hugging me yesterday. Like he didn’t want me leaving!” She argued for little success with her friends. “Hey! At least I have colts interested in me!”

“Didn’t you just say they were looking at me behind my back?” Sweetie countered.

“But you’re not interested in colts! Wouldn’t surprise me if you were like Rainbow... shine. Yeah, totally meant to say Rainbowshine.”

“We know Rainbow Dash is into mares.” Twilight called over. “She doesn’t want to admit it, but we all know. And so does the rest of the town, except Caramel.”

“Okay, yeah, Rainbow Dash. So... Any fillies catch your eye?” She wiggled her eyebrows. Somnia knew the answer to the question since they had walked in. It wafted from Sweetie like a perfume of affection.

“W-What?! No! I-I’m not into mares.” Sweetie crossed her forelegs.

“Right... And you lookin’ all antsy with Dinky?” Apple Bloom licked her lips. “Just friends?”

She straightened herself. “Just friends!”

“Sweetie...” Somnia grabbed her attention with the one word, the white unicorn swallowing. “I’m not into other fillies. Best look for somepony else.”

“I-I never- UGH!” She put her head in her hooves, failing to suppress her out-of-control blush.

“She can see emotions, remember?” Scootaloo elbowed her frustrated friend. “Probably knew since you came in here.”

Somnia nodded. “It’s okay if you like other fillies, just need to find somepony who will reciprocate.”

“Recipro-what?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Who feels the same way.”

“Hey, Apple Bloom, you looking for a special somepony?” Scootaloo turned to the last crusader.

“Nah. Nopony’s interested in me.”

“I know somepony interested in you.” Somnia stuck out the tips of her tongue, flicking her eyes toward Nightwind.

“Yeah, but he’s so–“

“Coltish?” Twilight walked back over. “Grown stallions aren’t much better. We’re all fillies and colts at the end of the day, so it’s best to find somepony you can spend your life with who will treat you right.” She turned to Somnia. “I’m headed to the Castle of the Two Sisters to do more research. Spike will be around to make you two dinner and help you. Is there anything you want me to get you on my way back?”

“Ice cream?”

“What flavor?”

“I, um... I don’t know.”

By the Ascended, not this again!

With a nuzzle into her fluffy cushion, Somnia breathed out a sigh of relief. No nightmares, no bed wetting, no worries. Her dreams and thoughts were a lot more manageable in the literal sense. She could predict specific things, although it only worked a quarter of the time. Whatever was in that stone had worked its magic.

Now just what was she doing before going to sleep for the night? CMC came over, Scootaloo challenged Apple Bloom to see who could get a kiss from a colt first, Nightwind abandoned ship after Apple Bloom began nuzzling up to him, he returned within an hour and he...

She opened her eyes. Yup. That is Nightwind. Quickly checking herself, she was relieved to find that nothing inappropriate had occurred last night. Just snuggles. Nice, warm, snuggles...

“You two are so cute together.” Twilight whispered from behind her, getting the filly to focus her soul-sight on her.

“How long have you been watching us?” Somnia asked.

“Only a few minutes.” She walked around to the other side where Somnia could see her with her own eyes. “Did you have fun yesterday?”

“Yeah. My new powers are pretty cool. I’ve already got some ideas for today. Are you doing anything?”

“I’m returning to research the chest.” Twilight sat on the side of the bed, petting Nightwind’s mane. “I think I’m getting somewhere with the keys.”

“That’s good, isn’t it?” Somnia raised a brow. The emotions of concern and fear set off alarm bells in her mind. Something was going to happen, and it would be soon.

“Yes, it’s very good.” Twilight nodded, biting her lip. “Have you seen anything about a centaur lately?” Somnia shook her head. With one last smile to her daughter: “Oh, okay. Well, thanks for letting me know.” She kissed Somnia’s forehead before heading off.

Turning away from Nightwind, Somnia spotted her breakfast on the nightstand along with Nightwind’s. “Snooze, you lose.” She grabbed her plate and began eating. A few minutes later, a groan came from next to her.

“Twilight, this bed is so hard.”

“Ground is too.” Somnia countered. “Get up.”

His eyes shot open and he fell from the bed along with the blanket. “WHAAA!”

Somnia nearly choked on her eggs as she suppressed the laugh in her throat. The colt jumped to his hooves and looked around as if he was looking for some excuse.

“We didn’t do anything.” Somnia answered the unspoken question. “Does it smell like we did?”

“N-No.” He let out a breath of relief. “How did we get into the same bed?”

Somnia shrugged. “I probably wanted to snuggle against somepony and you ‘volunteered’.” She did hoof quotes around the key word. “I’ve woken up in worse situations.”

“L-Like what?”

The filly bit her lip, suppressing that morning from rearing its ugly head again. In thirty seconds slowed time, she readjusted her thoughts to avoid freezing up. “Forget I said that. Here’s your breakfast.” She passed over the plate.

The two sat on her bed in silence while they ate until Nightwind asked his question: “What happened before Rainbow Falls?”

“Nothing.” Somnia finished her breakfast, taking an extra real second to suppress another memory from surfacing. It was going to be so much nicer to avoid reliving those moments. The curse of a near-perfect memory neutralized by tying it up in some other sections of her mind. Another feature of that gemstone she discovered was a thing. “Don’t you have a lunch date with Apple Bloom?”

“Huh?” He turned up from his breakfast. “Hey! You’re avoiding the question! And no, I don’t.”

“I’m pretty sure she wants to see you again.” Somnia leaned back in her bed. Apple Bloom may not have realized it, but the moment Somnia mentioned Nightwind was interested, her hormones spiked in response. Not the defensive ones, the affectionate ones. She wanted him.

“She only wants to win that bet! But I’m not that easy!” He declared.

“You couldn’t keep your eyes off their flanks yesterday. All of them. And you seemed to really like that kiss I gave.” Somnia smirked, knowing she had him.

“I, w-we’ve known each other for a while!” He defended his fragile honor. “I’m not just going to kiss somepony or... that with them without knowing them first.”

“Has your uncle had any marefriends over that you saw that?” Somnia leaned forward curious.

“No! I don’t spy on what my uncle does!” He crossed his forelegs. “I respect other pony’s privacy, unlike you!”

Somnia faked a hurt gasp. “How can you say that? I never wanted to see ponies bucking each other senseless or hearing conversations I shouldn’t have. It’s all on accident!”

“Doesn’t matter! You still do it!” He glared at her.

“If I wasn’t crippled, I’d chase you down until we got nice and alone, then give you a piece of my mind.” Somnia returned the glare, although she could tell that his spirit was breaking. This was going to be easy as pie. Just like old times.

“O-Oh yeah? And what would that be?”

“I’d corner you at a dead-end, making sure you had no way of escaping. Then I’d slowly approach, letting the tension build up. Closer, and closer, until I was a hoof away from you. I’d tilt my head, close my eyes...” Somnia closed her eyes, tilting her head. “And whisper what I really want from you.”

“A-And t-that is?” He asked with only her mouth a hoof away from his. Somnia could tell he was fighting the urge to kiss her or run. Both were equal possibilities.

“Please don’t go.” She asked with a distinct sadness in her voice, the colt’s stomach tightening. “It’s been so long since I’ve spent this much time with you. You’re the only pony I’ve been with that makes me feel like this. Please, stay with me for another hour, then I’ll let you go see Apple Bloom.”

His breathing became ragged as he considered her request. “S-Sure. One m-more hour.”

Nothing beats a mid-day nap, even with the nightmares back. Somnia fluttered her eyes open, feeling refreshed after spending time with her favorite cousin. They sat and chatted, getting used to how things were, even talking about Duskwing and how they each felt. It was nice. Pleasant, if you will. Lovely, if you must.

Getting up in bed, she wanted to try getting back on her hooves. Scooting over to the edge, she dropped her legs slowly to the floor below, taking care not to set them down too hard. Her muscles stung from the stretch, some shooting searing pain up her back.

“Your fault for being so weak.” She muttered while she applied small amounts of pressure on them. The worst part was her upper legs. Sitting properly was a literal pain in the flank, getting more than one wince from her as she slowed her breathing down to manage the pain. Time ground to a halt, or as close as she could get to a halt, anyway.

Sending individual signals was far more difficult to those damaged parts than she imagined. Slowly, she tested each muscle and group of muscles along her legs, looking for the worst offenders. The doctors had done an excellent job with their healing magic, but there was still some damage that needed to be accounted for. Her back-right leg suffered the worst damage, and so it was the one that was weaker.

She shifted her efforts onto her other leg, applying specific amounts of pressure and stretching it as best she could. If she can get to a limp, she can do her work in the lab downstairs. Still not fine enough to make another omni-heal, but enough to mitigate the pain through potions.

Once she felt comfortable enough, she took a few minutes to rest her left leg. This was it. After returning to the side of the bed, she placed the leg onto the ground, using it as a crutch while she dropped her front hooves. It stung, but it was manageable for short distances.

Taking care not to put her right leg down, Somnia took a cautious step forward, leaning on the bed for support. She repeated a few times until she felt satisfied with the effort, which came right after her legs shook bad. The filly crawled back up onto the bed and opened the drawer, taking out the vitamins her mother had gotten her.

She read a few books the rest of the day, occasionally being visited by Spike who brought her food, water, and assisted her with the bedpan tucked under her bed. It wasn’t until the evening that she got entertainment in the form of a very confused colt.

“Did the date go well?” Somnia put down her book and rested her head on her hooves.

“They’re nuts!” He exclaimed. “The orange one–“

“Scootaloo.”

“Right, Scootaloo, she was flirting with me the entire time! Apple Bloom then started chatting with Rumble and the entire thing spiraled out-of-control!” Nightwind walked over and sat down on the edge of Somnia’s bed. “You’ll never believe what happened next!”

“I’m sure I will.” Somnia giggled.

“Apple Bloom began flirting with Rumble! Right in front of Scootaloo! They got into a cat-fight about who was dating who, and Scootaloo being a hypocrite. She even said that she did it on purpose to increase her chances!”

“And?” Somnia was absolutely hooked, so much so she actually pushed Nightwind down onto the bed and snuggled against him.

“Well, Rumble didn’t know about the challenge, and so he confronted her about it. Turns out she just needed to ask, but that now he wasn’t going to accept because she didn’t tell him the truth!”

“What about you and Apple Bloom?”

“Oh...” He cringed. “She really came on strong after Rumble and Scootaloo left. I had to say no! We were in the middle of the town with ponies walking by!”

“A kiss isn’t that bad.” Somnia nuzzled his neck.

“It’s the principal of it!” He huffed.

“Sounds like you had a rough day.” She lowered her hoof to his sheath, biting her lip. “I think I know what we can do to make you feel better.”

“H-Hey!” He grabbed her hoof. “A-Aren’t we going a little fast?”

“I wasn’t going to let you inside, silly.” She kissed his cheek. “Just giving you something to think about. We can even get Apple Bloom if she’s down for it.”

“I-I’ll think about it.” He nervously gulped, his shaft slowly peaking out at the mere thought of her and him–

“Looks like your other head is also thinking about it.” Somnia began kissing down his neck. The simple act of getting him off raised her anxiety somewhat, but she promised herself to fight through it for both their sake. The mercs didn’t exactly make use of her mouth on account of the teeth, minus one day when the unicorn mare got in on it. Letting the memories surface and fade, she resolved herself to recovering this one service, at least for now.

He bit his lip. “No messes. I don’t want Aunt Twilight to know.”

“Sure.” Somnia began rubbing his shaft with her hooves. “Swallow it is.”

“What?!”

A yawn from the other side of the room got Somnia to pay attention to her surroundings, and by the Ascended was it bright. Opening her eyes, she saw that the room itself was fairly dark, but her mother radiated a gargantuan amount of magical energy.

She’s nearly at full raw magical saturation. Whatever could she have done to reach that?

Spike yawned, looking up from his basket as Twilight got to the top of the stairs. “You weren’t gone very long. Does this mean everything’s okay?”

“Yep!” Twilight turned to him with an anxious grin. “Everything’s fine.” A bolt of magical energy scattered along her body, peaking Somnia’s interest.

“In that case, I’m going back to bed. Sun’s not up... and neither am I.” He collapsed back down into his bed. Checking her new internal clock, Somnia deduced the sun should have risen two hours ago.

“That’s strange. The sun should be up by now...” Twilight muttered to herself before gasping. “The sun should be up by now!” She moved over to the window, unknowingly being watched closely by her daughter.

“You can do this.” She took a deep breath before igniting her horn, magical energy scattering along her body as she floated into the air. From Somnia’s soul sight, she witnessed a massive surge of energy come from the planet below to be channeled into Twilight before being sent off faster than light toward her targets. The sun and moon. Somnia smiled triumphantly. So the other princesses transferred their powers to her. This was... likely, but uncertain after the events at the Equestria Games.

Somnia considered why they would do that. She knew they would transfer their powers, but still didn’t understand why. Perhaps it had to do with the centaur mom mentioned yesterday? She shook off the thought off as light from the sun appeared briefly before going back to darkness, then the light again.

Stepping back down the stairs carefully, Twilight sighed a breath of relief before putting a hoof to her ear. “Dawn, Scuttle, I need you to wake up the others. Stay inside the library and out of sight until I deal with the threat.”

“What?!” Somnia sat up. “What threat?”

Twilight jumped at her daughter’s voice. “Somnia! You’re...” She wiped the side of her mouth with a hoof, getting Somnia to lick the same side of her own. Guess I missed some.

“I don’t want to know what happened.” Twilight sighed. “Stay here until this all blows over. I promise I’ll be back before you know it.”

“Aww...” The filly pouted. “What about him?” She motioned a hoof to the colt that contentedly slept next to her.

“He should stay here, too. It’s too dangerous to go outside right now.” Twilight walked over, picking up a tissue with her hoof to wipe Somnia’s face. “Keep him busy, but not too busy.” She winked.

“You need to get laid.”

“When I’m ready.” Twilight kissed her on the forehead, hoping that wasn’t one of the trajectory locations. “I love you. See you later!”

“Bye! Love you too!” Somnia waved off her mother from the room. Once she had left, Somnia dropped back into her sheets, sighing. You had to blow him...

“Ehhh...” A moan came from the colt in front of her. “S-Somnia?”

“Morning, Nightwind.” she said, keeping her voice low. “Sleep well?”

“D-Did we...” He stopped after Somnia nodded. “So it wasn’t a dream?”

“I hope not.” Somnia had a quiet chuckle with him. “I got some bad news. We’re supposed to stay inside until mom comes back.”

“But I’m supposed to meet up with the crusaders at the farm! Apple Bloom wanted to hang out today!”

Somnia blinked. “Well, I can’t stop you.” Her grin grew along with his. “I can strongly discourage you, but I can’t physically stop you from leaving.”

“You’re such a bad filly.” He teased.

“And you’re such a horny colt.” He kissed him on the lips. “Now get going before she thinks we’re sleeping together.”

“But–“

“Go!”

Nightwind jumped from the bed and quickly rubbed himself down with a sponge from the bathroom before trotting off in pursuit of his ‘marefriend’. Laying back, Somnia settled into the warmth he left behind from the night.

She honestly didn’t mind him pursuing Apple Bloom, or any of the crusaders, really. If things are like back in Excalicorn, many mares would get together with a single stallion. The crusaders were nice, kind, and best of all, harmonious. Somnia would have no difficulties having them as ‘sisters’ should Nightwind decide to pursue them in addition to her. To think, a herd that she was at the head of.

First kiss, first blowjob, and probably first rutting in due time. Part of her really didn’t enjoy thinking about it after what happened. Actually, it nearly brought a panic attack if she didn’t grind time to a halt to redirect the emotions into secluded sections of her mind. Despite her anxiety, she still desired release, and speaking of release, Somnia quickly sat up and opened the drawer to take out her medication. ‘Beat The Heat’, same brand that her mother had given her so long ago.

She used the rest of her water from the previous night to swallow a pill before laying back in bed. Another nap would suffice, then more practice on the leg.

It must have been at least two hours, yes, two hours and seven minutes. After sitting up in bed, Somnia did her stretches before positioning herself for the practice. Back-left, front-two, bed on side. Bed. On...

“SHIELD!” Somnia called out, the stallion coming charging up the stairs. “Get Owlicious and me out of here! This entire tree is going to explode!”

He didn’t hesitate to grab them both in his magic; the filly grabbing one last book before they headed out. Shield signaled the others to follow outside, where they spotted some smoke in the distance. “We need to get clear of the library!” Somnia stated firmly as she saw her mother teleport to the telescope on top. “MOVE!”

The seven went behind a building right before an explosion rocked the ground around them and burning books came raining down. Teleporting next to them, Twilight quickly hugged her daughter. “Somnia! I was so worried you had been in another room!”

“No time! Beat whoever blew up our home!” Somnia stared her in the eyes, her own anger slightly elevated. “Make them pay for threatening us ponies!”

“Where’s Nightwind?” Twilight looked around at the assembled group.

“He’s safe at Sweet Apple Acres.” The filly reassured her. “Now go!”

With a nod, Twilight teleported off and began a battle that could be felt even from the town.

“Let’s get to Nightwind to make sure he’s alright.” Somnia commanded her guards, who carried her without question, moving toward the farm. The explosions continued to rock the town for several minutes until they halted. Occasional clouds drifted from the fight grounds, tinted red with the magically disturbed soil. She could only hope her mother had won.

The group approached the farm gate, passing straight through toward the farmhouse. Dusty knocked loudly on the door and waited. She tried a second time a minute later to no response. “On the orders of the Queen’s Guard, open up!”

The occupant undid a ton of locks on the other side before Applejack’s older brother opened the door and let them inside. Nightwind and all three CMCs were sitting in the living area, all looking relieved at the visitors while Shield set Somnia down on the love seat next to Big Mac. Each of the guards took up positions around the house, with Shield standing near the living room window to peek through the blinds.

“What’s that there?” Apple Bloom asked, looking at the book Somnia was carrying in curiosity.

“This? It’s something special to me and my mom.” She hoofed it over. “It’s a romance novel.”

“Really?” Scootaloo turned her head up from the floor. “You came across town to read here?”

“It’s the last book from the library.” Somnia shrugged. “Kinda got blown up.”

Everypony present was stunned, minus Somnia and her guards. They asked a few questions about what happened, much of which she wasn’t entirely sure of. The group was interrupted from their Q&A when a magical burst signaled an end to the conflict. Carrying Somnia on his back, Shield led the group out back toward town.

They took a brief stop by the burning remains of the Golden Oaks Library, each paying their respects to the historical structure older than most of them.

“Wow, you weren’t kidding.” Scootaloo kept her eyes focused on the flames. “It really is gone.”

“That there library was one of the first buildin’s in Ponyville.” Granny Smith said. “After folks started movin’ to here from all over, they hollowed out that tree and made it into what it was. Gonna miss visitin’ it for things to read.”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac agreed with a solemn nod of his head.

“Hey, what’s that?” Sweetie pointed to a rainbow that spread across the sky toward some point at the edge of town. The group walked toward the other end. A massive crystal tree had risen from the ground, a star on its upper half which resembled Twilight’s cutie mark.

They went down the hill toward the new structure, a road which used to lead to the lake now headed directly to the front door of the castle. In front of the grand entrance doors were the regal sisters and Elements of Harmony, chatting about something. Many other townsfolk also came out of hiding to check what the new enormous structure was.

They all gathered near the front door after the regal sisters closed it behind them. Until suddenly, the doors burst open.

~ Each one of us has something special ~

~ That makes us different, that makes us rare ~

Shield trotted around the new castle with Somnia on his back, seeing the true splendor of it while the song played out for everypony else. A strange creature that kinda resembled the lamp she traded for was speaking to Celestia. Correction, handing flowers to Celestia. It kinda reminded her of the creature Captain Entropis had emblazoned on his chest-plate back in Excalicorn now that she got a good look at it in its entirety. Somnia closed her eyes and–

Buck...

Bucking bastard!

“Bring me to him!” She pointed for Shield to trot up to the creature who she knew as Captain Entropis, now known as Discord, fully intent on giving him a piece of her–

For crying out loud! Somnia pouted as the creature glanced over their shoulder and snapped their fingers, disappearing in a flash of light. Celestia walked over to her with the flowers in her magical grasp, taking in the pleasant aroma.

“Lovely castle, isn’t it?”

“Where did he go?”

“Discord? He probably went back home to spread chaos to his heart’s content.” Celestia frowned at the scowl on the filly’s face. “You know him?”

“Unfortunately.” Somnia shook her head and made another order to move toward the ‘throne room’ she had spotted earlier. Her mother finished getting her picture taken when she finally found them.

“Somnia!” Twilight galloped over to her, bringing her into a hug. “I’m so sorry about what happened to the Golden Oaks Library.”

“Guess we’re homeless now.” She tried a small joke to get herself back into a good mood. It didn’t really work.

“No, this is where we’re going to be living.” Twilight motioned to the crystal castle around them. “There’s going to be plenty of room for the Queen’s Guard, you, me, and Spike.”

“Dad and Nightwind?” She fluttered her eyes up at her mom, providing her with a sweet smile.

Her mother blinked a few times, taking it in. “I... guess it’s large enough for them. I’ll need to check the rest of the castle and take stock of the number of rooms we have.”

“If we have enough, can they move in with us?” The filly asked again, this time a little less certain.

Twilight sighed. “I’ll think about it.”

“Oh, okay.” Somnia grabbed the book she had tucked underneath her. “I saved one from the library before we left. Thought you might want to keep it.”

“What is...” She looked it over, opening it to check the inside before smiling at her. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome. Come on, Shield! Let’s find a bedroom so I can lie down!” The captain trotted off without another word, leaving Twilight to muse on the book. She opened it and sighed at the author’s notes. It was the only book from the author, and he dedicated it in his parent’s memory. At the end, he left a note to say that he loves them with all his heart and wanted their story to be known far and wide. She sniffled as she closed it and read the title again, remembering that night she spoke to Duskwing.

‘A Path Less Trotted: Unions of Heart and Soul’

Author's Note

The power-creep begins

The second-ish draft of the story had a Somnia x Sweetie ship. Abandoned it for this go around, but I thought the idea was still neat to include a reference to.

Also: Eying vs Eyeing? Which do you prefer? Apparently they can both be correct.

Chapter 22: Existence

"A little to the left." Somnia bit her lip as she watched Shield adjust the mirror just right. "Straighten it."

"I didn't realize I became a guard to be the personal butler to a filly." Dusty chuckled from the room opposite Shield while she organized the bathroom. The entire room was made of crystal, only two false windows at the top edges of the room opposite the door providing 'natural light'. The bed-frame itself was made of crystal, albeit far too spacious for the filly that now occupied it, and several other pieces of furniture such as the dresser and grooming table were also made of the same blueish-purple crystal that the walls were made of. It was so much crystal it made Love gag.

"Better than ponies dying." Love commented from next to Somnia, leaning against the nightstand, yet another crystal piece of furniture. "At least now we got good beds and proper meals."

"I didn't know you liked cooking, Shield. Why did you never tell us before?" Dusty called out to their unicorn companion.

"Never came up. How's this?" He turned to Somnia who gave her nod of approval. "Your turn, Love."

"Ugh." She picked up the backpack Spike had generously provided, bringing it over to the 'grooming station' to begin sorting through the various things while Shield moved the dresser to it's new location with ease.

"Why doesn't Scuttle or Dawn have to do this stuff?" Dusty asked the laying filly. "Doesn't seem fair to have us day guards do it and for them to do nothing."

"Oh, they have their tasks." Somnia smiled to the bathroom doorway. "It's not easy to salvage anything good from the old library without drawing attention."

"Ah." Dusty nodded from within. "I see we got the easy tasks."

"Easy for you ponies maybe. What even is this?" Love held up a small container.

"Makeup. Sort it by color please." Somnia giggled. "Have you really never seen makeup before?"

"I'm a griffon! My face is covered in feathers! Why would I put something thick over them?" She exclaimed, returning back to the task at claw.

"Alright, I'm done here." Shield declared, examining his reorganization work. Four additional tables, thankfully non-crystal ones, had been set up around the room, each with a specific purpose for Somnia's work until the basement lab was finished. The Tree of Harmony actually took her into account, adding a massive complex beneath the castle large enough for four medium-sized laboratories and enough space for the fission reactor she wanted to build, whatever that was.

"I'm going to the throne room. Mom is getting a shipment of books and I want to have a look through it before she does." Somnia carefully got down from her bed, fitting her back-right leg into the mechanism she built to ease movement until it fully healed. Doing up the straps, she took a few tentative steps before settling into the rhythm.

"You sure you'll be alright?" Shield asked with some concern as she hobbled towards the door.

"I wouldn't mind if you came with me?" She smiled sweetly, immediately breaking the defenses of Shield who followed along after her. They walked around the unnaturally long hallway towards the throne room. Gratefully the throne room wasn't too far away, giving her ample time to continue taking note of the different rooms. The castle was significantly larger on the inside than it was on the outside. In some ways it reminded her of Excalion's Tower, but that was much, MUCH larger.

She spotted a lost mover pony down the hall checking the map they had been given of the castle, and to her luck, they had the new books. "Hello!" She stopped to wave to them before continuing her slow pace towards the cart they were pulling.

"Ah, Princess Somnia! Thank Celestia you're here. I'm a bit lost and- Is your leg alright?" He tilted his head to look at her back leg as she approached.

"I wanna look through the books!" She declared. "Shield?"

The unicorn lifted her into the air so that she could get a better view of the pile. First book at the top...

It's enchanted.

"Thanks for the helpful input, Grar. I can see it's enchanted." She grabbed it from the top of pile and quickly skimmed through. It was a journal of some kind, always starting with either 'Dear Princess Celestia' or 'My Faithful Student'. Most of the pages were blank after a certain entry which she read through in its entirety. Sunset Shimmer... Isn't that the pony I heard about from that mirror place?

"Hold onto this." She threw the book over to Shield who caught it with his magic while she continued to search through the pile. The cart contained mostly textbooks and encyclopedias to replace those lost in the Golden Oaks Library, only a few of which were actually useful for her work. She picked out the book on advanced alchemy and threw it over to Shield, not even looking back as she continued to have a look through the pile.

"Somnia?" Shield alerted her to a buzzing noise. "It seems the enchanted book is reacting."

He set her down and passed her the book to examine. "It's..." She grinned. "To the throne room!" She sluggishly hobbled down the hall, mover pony following behind with an equally confused Shield.

She peeked around the corner and saw each of the elements performing various tasks: Rarity cleaning her throne, Fluttershy and Applejack pushing a crate of supplies, Pinkie blowing up balloons, Rainbow Dash chilling on a window sill, and her mother reading letters likely from the Equestrian government. Wherever Spike and Nightwind were, they certainly weren't here.

"Hey, mom!" Somnia trudged into the room, book balanced on her back. "You got a message from Sunset Shimmer!"

"What?!" She rushed over, taking book into her magic and reading it.

"How is that even possible?" Rarity asked curiously.

"I have no idea, but it sounds like they need my help." She closed the book. "Let's go to the library. I need to investigate this."

"Where do you want these books?" The mover pony asked with an award-winning smile.

"The library. I'll show you where it is." She cantered past him, the rest following behind. Somnia thought back to the layout to the castle as she understood it. Third door on the left, easy to miss since there's no signs anywhere. I'll need to setup some organization system, maybe some wooden signs above the doors.

Leaning on Shield for support, she barely reached the library to catch the tail-end conversation. Both Spike and Nightwind had apparently been hanging out here, the colt trotting out as Somnia entered, but not before giving her a quick peck on the cheek which she gladly returned on his lips.

"If the Sirens had their way, they would have divided and conquered all of Equestria. But a certain Star Swirl the Bearded wasn't having it. Rumor has it he found a way to banish them to another world - one where he believed their magic power would be lost. That world must have been the one where my Canterlot High friends live." Twilight finished the story.

"But Star Swirl must have sent them there ages ago. How come they're just surfacin' now?" Applejack asked.

"I don't know. But if my hunch is right and it is the Sirens who have come to Canterlot High, this spell they've cast is just the beginning. My friends need me. I have to get back to them." Twilight firmly stated.

The Sirens, absolutely fantastic. Tell them daddy says he's very disappointed. Grar chimed in, getting a giggle out of Somnia and Pinkie.

"I hate to burst your bubble, Twilight, but the connection between their world and Equestria will still be totally cut off for a super long time." Rainbow countered.

Nonsense. Use the book as a direct connection. It already appears to have a tunneling enchantment to the same microverse, you just need to redirect it into the deactivated surface of the mirror to reignite it.

"And I already know how to get it done!" Twilight took the blanket off of the mirror portal Celestia had transferred from the Crystal City and floated over various spare parts that were laying around. Within a few minutes, she had a makeshift contraption to reactivate the portal.

"Now to see if it actually works." Twilight put the book atop the machine causing a lot of activity as it copied characteristics of the book's magic to shoot into the mirror with a few 'ooo's and 'ahh's from the other elements.

"Don't suppose we could join you this time around?" Applejack smiled to her hopefully.

"Better not." Twilight crushed her friend's hopes. "It could make things pretty confusing if Canterlot High all of a sudden had two of all of you." To which the elements agreed, although some *cough* Rainbow Dash *cough* weren't super enthusiastic.

"But I still get to go, right? There isn't another one of me at Canterlot High. And you never know if you might need your trusty assistant." Spike grinned to her, getting a simple 'Mm-hmm'. "Yes!"

"We won't be gone long." She looked back to her friends.

"What about me? Is there another one of me?" Somnia asked, eyes full of hope.

No. "No." Grar and Twilight answered at the same time.

"Can I come? Even if it's just for a little bit?" She pleaded with her eyes.

Twilight sighed, smiling to her daughter. "Alright, for a little bit."

"Yeah!" Somnia hobbled over to her. "Umm, do you think my leg is going to be a problem?"

"Hmm..." Twilight thought about it. "I can probably get something to help you move around over there if you're having problems. You won't look like you do now, so I don't actually know what will happen."

"I guess we'll find out." Somnia moved up to the portal while the elements said they goodbyes.

"Oh, you be careful, Twilight." "Take care!" "Y'all be safe now." "And don't forget to dress well."

With a last squee from Pinkie, Twilight turned to her travel companions. "Ready you two?"

Spike cracked his knuckles and prepped himself while Somnia stretched her legs, both finishing with "Ready!"

"Then let's go." Twilight entered first followed by Spike. Moving up to the mirror, Somnia reached out and felt it. A silent feeling of dread settled over her, shivers running down her spine.

That's not a good sign.

No, it isn't. Somnia took a few deep breaths before stepping forward through the mirror.

Tartarus. That's what it felt like, or at least what she believed Tartarus felt like. At the edges of her very soul she could feel the universe tugging to get her to change, but she refused. It was excruciating, and completely nauseating. By the time she could start focusing on one thing, the environment shifted again.

Then came the worst part, stepping out. Or rather being launched out into some things, tumbling until she made impact with one of their legs. Her heart pounded in her chest as she kept her eyes closed, the soul signatures enough to send her into an anxiety attack.

"Somnia?"

No, this was all wrong. This world, it reeked of pain. Everywhere she looked, there were monsters watching from afar. W-Where am I?

"Woah, I wasn't expectin' an actual pony!"

We need to leave, I didn't realize it was here.

Entity known as Somnia, return at once. Your presence is upsetting the delicate balance of our project. A voice boomed in her mind.

I'm Balderiaol, former Pentus of Ambition for the Grand Councilor of Harmony. By my authority, given by the Prophet, I decree her presence as legitimate. Grar broadcast outward so that whoever was contacting the now crying filly would back off.

No known individual within our records by the name of Balderiaol assigned to the Harmony-2 Project, nor is there a Grand Councilor of Harmony. Return to where you came from or we will--

ENOUGH! Somnia cried out. My authority is that of the Ascended! Should you make any moves to disrupt my work, I will have your entire project terminated!

"Are they doing telepathy? That's awesome!"

This is your--

Meciclara jinsd hivalimaka, postil miktac.

Meciclara jinsd hivalimaka, postil miktac! She called out involuntarily, the background drone slowly dissipating.

"I must say, that is quite the feeling."

"Somnia?" Twilight knelt down to her on... two knees? "What's going on? Who were you talking to?"

The automaton assigned to this project, most likely. They didn't recognize me, which likely means that this was made rather quickly and with only my external colleagues in the records. Grar answered.

"Hey, can you do that crazy magical burst again?" A bipedal Rainbow Dash also knelt down. "That felt so cool!"

"Are you really okay?" Twilight asked again.

"Y-Yeah. I'm fine now." Somnia wiped her face, still not daring to open her eyes. Those souls...

Lost, but now found.

"J-Just give me a minute." She shakily stood up onto her hooves. The brace was still attached to her back leg, which gratefully meant she could move around just fine. The souls stretched far taller than her, likely meaning that she would have to look up constantly. Spike's soul was the only one on her level, actually, it seemed to have been compressed into a smaller shape.

She walked back towards the portal that she could see swirling, getting close enough so that it would be the only thing in view. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw a marble surface directly ahead. Looking upward, she noticed a statue of the 'classical' variety, what ponies used to look similar to in pre-historic times.

With a last breath to steel her nerves, she turned around and her eyes immediately regretted it.

"You're what they look like in Equestria?" The creature she could only assume was Applejack by the hat said.

"Yup." The red and yellow haired creature approached, reaching out a hand. "Hi. I'm Sunset Shimmer. I think I saw you briefly in the Crystal Empire."

The filly slowly reached out a hoof, making contact, albeit with significant reservation. Her breathing was ragged, trying to push through the fear that kept threatening to make her bolt back through the portal.

"Don't worry. I was scared the first time too." She smiled to Somnia in the hopes of getting her to calm down. Why am I so scared of them? I've seen creatures like this before. I've seen Excalion before!

A great tragedy, one that must be corrected.

"Did someone hurt you?" The unusual creature serving as the doppelganger for Pinkie Pie asked confused.

"What do you mean? Has she been here before?" Fluttershy asked worried. "Did another hu--"

STOP! Somnia closed her eyes as she shouted out. She couldn't bare the word for whatever reason. Her future-sight was completely shot, barely able to go a second into the future or past without turning into an incomprehensible mess of cosmic horrors.

You are safe, little one. No need to fear what happened so long ago. You are safe here, my daughter.

"Somnia, if you want to go back, I'll understand." Twilight knelt down, rubbing her daughter's cheek with a hand before giggling. "I never realized how soft our fur is."

"Probably softer than Earth horses." Sunset added tongue-in-cheek.

"I-I want to stay. See what this world is like." Somnia said with an affirmative nod in spite of her own feelings on the matter. "I need to. It's just as important for me as it is for..." Humans, they are called humans. "hoo-mans."

"It's pronounced humans, darling." Rarity corrected.

"It's not going to be easy getting her around." Sunset remarked, examining the filly. "The horn and wings, plus the fact she's a tiny horse doesn't help."

"Can you act like a dog?" Pinkie suggested, crouching to scratch her ear with her leg.

"That's disgusting." Rainbow cringed at her friend. "But I kinda have to agree with her. Act like a dog, and don't speak to anybody else but us. Not many talking animals around here."

Somnia nodded, getting picked up by Twilight. She was small enough to be cradled by the two arms, snuggling into the soft cushions on her chest.

"Watch the horn." Twilight winced. "Those are delicate."

"Sorry." Somnia whispered back as the group moved off to a cafe. During their walk, Somnia made note of several things. These 'humans' were technologically superior to modern ponies, but still behind Excalicorn in complexity. Second, they didn't use magic. At all. It reminded her of the 'apocalypse' communities in the Harmonic Empire, ponies who would forgo the use of magic in any form to live life as best they could.

The third, and most obvious, was that she was terrified of them.

Sunset took off her jacket to conceal Somnia while they slipped by the front counter of the cafe, Pinkie breaking off to place their orders. Once they were seated, Sunset took back her jacket to let Somnia breath.

"Oh, I do hate you had to return at a time of crisis. There's so much catching up to do!" Rarity started off the conversation as Pinkie brought over their smoothies.

"For starters, a certain blue-haired guitar player was just askin' about you." Applejack and the other girls smirked to Twilight, dropping their smiles at her frown.

Taking a quick drink from her cup, Twilight sighed. "I'm afraid that ship has sailed. I'm due to be married in a few years."

"WHAT?!" The other humans yelled out in surprise. Sunset was the first to ask: "When? How?!"

Twilight looked down to Somnia. "I'm her mom, and she wants her dad back around."

"Twilight, darling, you can't be serious? Aren't you only our age? How can you have a daughter?" Rarity asked with concern.

"It's a long story..." Twilight scratched the back of her head. "But I've proven it, many times. She's without a doubt my daughter, and my 'fiance' is her father."

"Ya don't sound particularly excited about it." Applejack pointed out.

"He's in the hospital right now..." She scrunched up her face. "Terrorist attack at the Equestria Games. He jumped in front of a blade to save me, and this little monster threw herself directly into a laser as well. That's why her leg is like that."

"You would have died!" The filly countered. "Hurting my leg is worth less than your life!"

"Thanks." Twilight ruffled up her mane, halfheartedly smiling at the proclamation.

"Has there been any other news from your world that you wouldn't mind sharing with us?" Rarity asked curiously. "Sounds like a lot has happened since you last visited."

"She's got an official title now." Spike spoke up, playing a mock fanfare with his dog treat. "The Princess of Friendship!"

"Wow, that's really impressive. Guess you really were Princess Celestia's prized pupil." Sunset added.

"She's even got her own castle!" Spike exclaimed.

"A castle?!" Rarity bumped into her, getting close to her face and far to close for the filly. "You have your own castle?! Eh..." She grabbed a napkin and wiped Twilight's shirt of the spilled smoothie, clearing her throat. "Ooh, uh, lovely."

"What's new here? I mean, besides your school becoming the target of dangerous magical creatures from Equestria?" Twilight took a long sip of her drink.

"Yeah, so, that isn't exactly the only strange thing that's happened since you left." Rainbow showed Twilight her electrical square device with a video playing of Rainbow Dash growing wings and a hair extension.

Somnia, it appears psio- I mean magic, has leaked into this world. They have an entire society built upon technology without magic or even interference. I shouldn't have to tell you why this is a bad thing.

Malevolent entities, right?

Correct. The pink one is already a host, like her pony counterpart, but far more malicious. We'll need to do something about them before it escalates out of control.

What do you mean?

I mean, if we don't prepare these humans to combat them, they will tear themselves apart. Ask about radioactive weaponry, they are of sufficient technological advancement for development of such weapons.

"There's a big party tonight for all the bands who signed up to be in the showcase!" Pinkie explained. "That would include the Dazzlings."

"Looks like we've got a party to crash." Twilight smiled to the group getting a squee from Pinkie before turning down to Somnia. "I'm afraid I'll have to send you back to Equestria. It's not practical to hide you from every-one."

"That's alright. Can I ask a question for your friends though?"

"Go ahead." Rainbow Dash answered, sipping the last remains of her smoothie.

"Do you have weaponry based on radioactive isotopes?"

"You mean nukes?" Sunset replied, confused with the question. "Yeah, lots of nations have them. Why do you ask?"

The timeline will need to be moved up.

"Just curious." The filly nervously chuckled. Buck, this is bad.

When we head back through, I'll measure the rate of the bleed. Hopefully nothing will worsen it.

Another painful return trip later, Somnia fell from the portal onto the purple carpet of the library. "You're back early." Fluttershy reached out to help the filly up, but Somnia refused to move. The entire world was spinning around her, any motion might--

"It's SOOOO good to see you again. How's the other me? Just as happy to see you?" Pinkie picked up the filly and put her into a hug.

"Oh no." Rarity barely had time to say before Somnia threw up all over Pinkie's back and onto the floor.

"Oh dear." Fluttershy covered her nose while Rainbow snickered from across the room with her Daring Do book.

"I'll get you two cleaned up." Rarity levitated both of the dirty ponies, preventing anymore puke from dropping to the floor. "Fluttershy, dear, if you wouldn't mind cleaning the carpet before it drys?"

"No problem, Rarity." She followed them out into the hallway and began the search for the clean supply bin that was brought in. Rarity floated the two ponies down to Somnia's room, receiving a salute from Dusty who unlocked the door and allowed them entry. It took her the better part of an hour to scrub them down completely, then she did herself since she didn't have any 'protective' gear.

Pinkie hopped happily from the bathroom while Rarity tucked in the exhausted filly. "Sleep well, Somnia. Twilight will be back before you know it."

As she drifted to sleep, Grar called out to her: Somnia?

Opening her eyes, Somnia could see a pleasant blue sky with the occasional cloud high above. She was on something incredibly soft, but also firm. Sitting upright, she took in the surroundings. Silver-colored grass punctuated the field she laid in, surrounded by the forest she had seen before far too often for her liking. The golden leaves on the white-barked trees told her what this was about.

Getting onto her hooves, she realized that she didn't actually have hooves this time, or a body for that matter. Floating over to the trees, she took a good look at the markings along the bark dancing along. It was soothing, exactly like the first time she had seen the forest in-pony, although she was far too young to remember much other than Excalion carrying her out and her mother being absolutely livid. Moving into the woods, she slowly floated between the trees, the minor differences being a whole layer of depth on their own.

She was alone, yet surrounded by family. The wisps kept their distance, silently cooing at her or offering greetings in a special way only they could. Brushing against a tree, she closed off her vision to take in the experience. Knowledge without limit within reach yet unable to be grasped. Millions of years passed in the span of a blink while she took in the feelings of eternity. The pain, the sorrow, the joy, everything that makes life worth living. That separates it from the non-living.

I bestow this small gift. May you still find it equally soothing when the time comes.

Her head ached as she reopened her eyes to the darkened interior of her room. Somnia rolled over to see on her nightstand where a crudely made box of wood lay. She knew what was inside, nothing could have been more precious than this gift. Reaching out for it, she picked up the box and brought it to her chest, embracing it.

She didn't know how long had passed since she had grabbed the box, but she knew it was worth it. Opening the latch, she revealed the object that started and ended wars. To an ordinary pony, it was a regular seed. To her, it was life itself. The Crucible of Harmony at the center of Excalion's Tower was surrounded by such trees, hidden away from the universe within walls of magically reinforced alloys. She only knew that the queen, her mother, Excalion, Grogar, and herself had seen the inside since its containment was built by Grogar and Excalion over a million years ago, and even then she saw it only that one time.

To Somnia, it was a recurring dream always ending before she entered the forest. Until now. Now she had in her hoof the knowledge of forever, the strength of eternity, and the resilience of life. There was only one question on her mind as she put the seed back in the box.

"Hey, Grar, where should I plant this?"

Plant what? You're holding an empty box.

She reopened it to see the seed. "It's not empty. There's a seed."

If there is, then I cannot see it. Would you mind explaining how this seed came to be?

"What do you mean?"

That box has been sitting on your dresser since you moved in, and even before then it was sitting in the Golden Oaks Library next to where you slept. How did you not notice it? I was going to ask you what it was, but never did get around to it. Must have somehow survived the explosion.

Somnia dived back into her memories. No, there was no box anywhere at the Golden Oaks Library, meaning that somepony has had their memories altered. "Nevermind, do you have a suggestion where to plant it or not?"

If this hypothetical seed exists, then I would recommend somewhere you can easily access it for care. Do you know how tall it will grow?

"A bit taller than Excalion in her girivi form? Maybe more? I don't know, it's a tree."

Grar went silent for a solid couple of minutes. How about out front? That's easy to access.

"Sounds good to me." Somnia got up out of bed, noticing her leg support wasn't where she usually left it. Taking a quick look around, she spotted it in the bathroom. With a great sigh, she called out: "Dusty!"

Dawn entered the room, noticing her stretched out on her bed. "I know I'm not Dusty, but I--"

"Can you get my leg support?" She pointed to the bathroom. Retrieving the device, Dawn assisted her in putting it on. "Thanks. Do you have a shovel or trowel, or something?"

"Planning on getting into gardening?" He chuckled. "How deep of a hole do you need?"

"I don't know. It's a seed." She shrugged.

"Usually they have specific depths they have to be planted." He looked her up and down. "You look like Tartarus."

"Wasn't a smooth trip back." She lightly chuckled. "I guess I'll just keep it in its box for now." Opening the drawer to her nightstand, she placed the crude box into it. That's future Somnia's problem.

Moving over to the library, Somnia began the process of sorting through the book delivery. She wished she could have stayed with her mom in the other world, but the entire experience was harrowing on its own without the issues of traveling to and from there. It still didn't make much sense why she was so scared of them.

She began by sorting the books by general topic. Sciences, fiction, history and poneology, assorted non-fiction. Next came dividing it by internal divisions. There weren't as many books as there was in a typical Twilight resorting session at the Golden Oaks, but sorting by hoof was tedious at best.

Checking the clock... Oh, the clock hasn't been put up yet. Leaving the library, she made her way to the front doors of the castle. She unlocked the door and opened it slightly, looking up at the serene night sky before regarding the stern faced changeling that turned to her. "Psst. Scuttle?"

"Yeah?" He came over from the side of the door. "Need something?"

"What time is it?"

"Dark." He chuckled. "I don't know. Sunset was a while ago. Probably after midnight."

"Ugh. I'm going to have to include watches in your new armor." She closed the door and locked it again. That gave her an idea on what she can do until morning. Walking back to the library, she grabbed several large rolls of paper from one of the 'study' supply bins provided to them by Celestia. If her schematics were gone, she'll need to redo them, and it's better to get it done now while she doesn't have a lab than when she could be actually making them. She returned to her room with all the items before getting to work.

Five different sets of armor... The more she drew, the more flaws she saw in her original designs. More maneuverability, more utility, less room for disabling different sections. The more she worked, the more it became apparent that a better power supply would be needed. Grabbing a separate roll, she began sketching out the design for a new power source to include in the armor, using her hoof-grip Dawny and Scuttle were able to salvage from the ruins of the Golden Oaks Library greatly sped up the process.

A knock at the door startled her from her work. She adjusted her sight to see her cousin outside. "Come in!"

"I wanted to see how you are feeling." He opened the door and trotted over, pulling up another chair to sit next to her. "What are you drawing?"

"Schematics for a micro-fusion battery. The old magi-kinetic generators didn't produce enough power for the armor." She tapped the pencil on the paper. "I just thought of a material replacement for some of the rarer materials."

Nightwind continued to watch as she drew down even more of the design, barely taking any rest between pencil strokes. "I don't know what any of this is."

"This?" She pointed to her rough calculations. "It's just some math. I need to know the minimum and maximum needed outputs and how long it will take to burn out before it needs replacement. A few hours at maximum activity, if my math is right. A few weeks at minimum, assuming I don't use several."

"I didn't really learn much math besides addition and subtraction." He put his head on the table while he watched her sketch. After a few minutes, she dropped the pencil and examined the design. "Does it look good?"

"No, I need to find a better solution." She grabbed a sixth roll of paper and began making even more designs. "Too much effort to manually produce these cells. I need to automate the process."

"Is that what you're drawing?"

"What I'm drawing is an improvement of my old smelter. This one should be able of alloying most of the hardest materials known to ponies. The metals will need to readjusted, cost will likely remain static..." She scribbled some notes at the side. "Reduction in cost by a few thousand bits, even more if my lab is still in decent shape."

"Why don't you just use magic?" He asked curiously.

"Too fickle. Magic can be easily countered or taken away without even more advanced technology, which I don't have access to right now. Eventually I'll be able to make use of enchantments, but until then this is the best option." She grabbed a seventh roll to put on the table. "Can you go get Love," she sighed at the predicted response, "the griffon, for me?"

"Uh, yeah, sure." Nightwind trotted off while Somnia began the preliminary sketch of her newest idea. Wings were a major weak point in the design. Too fragile, not strong enough to compensate for increased weight of the armor. Griffon wings were the strongest, with changeling wings being the weakest. Each one will need to have their wings upgraded, Scuttle being last after they've returned to their regular form.

Grar, can you give me designs for medical equipment? Also, do you know a lot about pony and griffon biology?

Enough to do whatever crazy scheme you likely have planned.

"You wanted to see me?" Love walked into the room with Nightwind following behind.

"Can you hover in place for me?" Somnia closed her eyes while Love hovered in place, walking around her to get a closer look at the magical pathways. A crystal buffer could work for Scuttle. Still won't be as strong as the other two though. "Alright, thank you."

Landing back on the ground, both Love and Nightwind stuck around while Somnia began designing the interface. "What's that?" Love questioned.

"I want to replace your wings." Somnia stated simply, getting a jerk back from the griffon.

"You want to what?!"

"You heard me. I want to replace your wings with something better. Your wings are a major weak point in my designs. With a new set of magi-mechanical wings, you'll be able to fly faster and further than before without the same weaknesses. It's an outright improvement."

"And you know how to do that?" She asked uncertain. "I mean, you really think it will work?"

"It will." Somnia turned to her. "Stretch out your wings fully."

Moving around to the griffon's back, Somnia rubbed spots to measure the reactions of the magic and muscles. Griffons can fly without magic, but with magic they are truly a force to be reckoned with. The natural strength of griffons comes from the muscles, meaning that muscular integration for Love would be the best course of action. Far more complicated than a complete replacement like what Dawny or Scuttle would receive.

How long of a recovery do you think?

With healing magic, a week or two tops. Without, several months.

"You having fun back there?" Love sarcastically asked.

"How do you feel about having mechanical wings?" Somnia prodded at the muscles again, rotating the wings.

"If it works, and it's better, I won't complain." She cringed. "What are you doing?"

"Testing range of motion." Somnia did one last motion with each wings before returning to her desk. "Alright, that's all I need for now."

Love shrugged indifferently and left the two foals on their own. Nightwind sat back down next to Somnia while she worked. "You're really smart."

"No choice. Probably got some of it from mom. The rest came from Grar." She giggled. "Dad isn't too smart when it came to stuff like this. He liked using any muscle except his brain."

"Do you want to hang out with the crusaders today?" He asked with his head on the desk.

Somnia set down her pencil, taking a deep breath. "Okay. This can wait. No rush until I have the materials for the lab."

The two walked from the castle towards Carousel Boutique. The outskirts of Ponyville were generally less traveled than the inner parts, a simple reality of population density. The two foals passed by only a few ponies on their way to the boutique, them happily waving to the two. Seeing as it was a prime opportunity, Somnia would go out of her way to nuzzle up to her coltfriend or give him quick kisses, always when others were watching. He really is handsome when he's embarrassed. She had to giggle at his blushing. She knew he would try thinking of ways to get back at her, and she anticipated whatever he thought of with enthusiasm.

Entering into the main area, Rarity came out to greet them. "Hello, Somnia, glad to see you are feeling better. Hello, Nightwind. Are you two looking for Sweetie?"

"Yup!" She declared. "Is she out?"

"No, she's up in her room." Rarity sighed. "She has homework that needs to get done before school tomorrow."

"Oh." Somnia quickly thought up an idea. "What about a study group with the other crusaders? I can do brainstorming for my designs and Nightwind can learn from them! Everypony gets what they want."

"Hmm... If you can get Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, I'm willing to let you all hang out in Sweetie's room, on the condition that you are studying."

"Deal!" Somnia walked back out the door and made her way across town. She found Scootaloo practicing tricks on her scooter, the pegasus providing a quick ride all way out to where Apple Bloom was doing chores. A simple convincing for Applejack later and the three headed back to the boutique with their homework in-hoof.

Nightwind spent the time watching Sweetie work through the sheets she was given, both wracking their brains over the problems but neither getting correct answers.

"Hey, Sweetie Belle!" Scootaloo called out as she entered followed by Apple Bloom. "Somnia said we could all hang out while we do our homework."

"Is Rarity okay with it?" She looked up at them. "I thought Nightwind had just come to learn what we are learning."

"Yup, as long as the homework gets done." Somnia sat next to Nightwind. "I grabbed a few pieces of paper from downstairs for me."

The five of them sat around doing the mind-numbing work, occasionally chatting about gossip or particularly tough problems. At some point, Somnia began directly teaching Nightwind, starting with basic mathematics and working her way up. The crusaders were surprised at the relative lack of education the colt had, being at least two grades behind them despite being the same age.

"Have either of you won the challenge?" Sweetie asked her friends after a few minutes of concentrated effort leading her nowhere on a problem.

"Nope." Apple Bloom shook her head, pointing at Nightwind. "That one doesn't want to kiss me!"

"At least you have somepony." Scootaloo groaned. "Rumble doesn't even want to talk to me after what happened! Now I need to find another colt."

"What about Featherweight? He seems to like you." Sweetie suggested.

"He's too friendly! And he likes everypony!"

"What about the other classes?" Apple Bloom asked. "Plenty of colts in those."

"Yeah, but I only see them in town, not regularly!" Scootaloo threw her head down onto her homework. "I'm doomed!"

"Do ya forfeit?" Apple Bloom smirked.

"Never!" Scootaloo shot back up defiantly. "I'll find a colt if it's the last thing I do!"

"Why not Nightwind?" Somnia suggested, receiving looks of surprise from the crusaders. "It's not uncommon for several mares to chase after a single stallion, and you already know him."

"Hey! I don't wanna share him with somepony else!" Apple Bloom glared at her, getting an amused smirk from the filly.

Somnia turned to Nightwind, leaning in close, getting a nervous chuckle from him. She started the kiss which became more passionate once he understood what she was doing, her eyes turning towards Apple Bloom as she pulled away. "Still think he's just yours?"

Sweetie and Scootaloo both held back their laughs as Apple Bloom's jaw dropped. "B-But, I... Y-You're already... and yer okay with it?"

"Yeah, why wouldn't I be? I'm the one who set you up, remember?"

"Why didn't any of you tell me?!" She looked around to the rest of the group. "How long has he been snoggin' her?!"

"Since he came into town." Scootaloo shrugged. "Didn't you see them giving each other looks in the library?"

"Looks ain't the same!"

"Are you really saying you didn't know?" Sweetie asked slightly concerned for her friend. "It was pretty obvious with how they talked to each other, even for me."

"I-I guess I wasn't payin' attention." Apple Bloom pouted towards the floor.

"It's not so bad." Somnia nuzzled into Nightwind's neck, getting a blush from the colt. "You've known each other a few days, only a little shorter than he's known me. None of us are invested right now. If you really want a colt to yourself, there's plenty out there."

"Yeah!" Scootaloo added. "Like you said, there's other colts around town."

Apple Bloom sighed. "Fine..."

"Fine as in...?" Somnia sought clarification.

She turned back up. "I'll share 'em. But no doin' any funny business without tellin' me!"

"Should we tell her?" Somnia giggled to her coltfriend.

The yellow and red filly glared at them. "Seriously? You couldn't wait a month before gettin' all intimate?"

"A few days for him, years for me." Somnia purred into Nightwind's ear, getting him to blush even more. "I knew the old him since we were foals. We played, we laughed, and when we got old enough, we loved."

"I take back what I said earlier. You're crazy too." Nightwind playfully smiled at the filly on his shoulder.

"Crazy, and relentless." She held her expression for another few seconds before dropping her smile and backing off from him. "But I do want you to understand you have a choice. If you feel like choosing somepony else, just tell me. It'll hurt, but I'll live. I don't want you to feel pressured to choose me because of what things were like before or because I'm so forward with my advances."

"So he's on the market?" Scootaloo grinned to them.

Apple Bloom turned on her friend. "Hey! What did I just say?"

"That you were fine with sharing him." Scootaloo repeated. "Since Rumble's probably not going to want me back, what do you say about a date, Nightwind?"

"Make it a double date!" Apple Bloom quickly added.

"Okay, a double date. Sugar Cube Corner, tomorrow after school?"

The colt thought for a second, looking to Somnia for approval and receiving a nod. "Tomorrow after school. I just have one question: When does school end?"

Combing his mane the best he could, Nightwind took one last good look in the mirror. He was presentable, as far as batponies go. He never expected to have a marefriend, let alone three all competing for his affections. Well, two competed, the other simply took it. Biting his lip, he still didn't know why she was so loving with him, nor did he know why he felt compelled to reciprocate. The two crusaders were just doing it to win a bet, not because they actually had feelings for him, at least that he knew.

Leaving out into the hallway, he didn't expect for Somnia to see him off considering the work she was doing. Either that, or still sleeping from staying up half the night. Going into the library, he quickly found a map of Ponyville that had been left out. Sugar Cube Corner wasn't too far from Town Hall meaning he could always use that as a reference point. He left the castle in pursuit of the two fillies, taking care to head in the general direction of the town hall.

Since arriving in town, he hadn't seen another batpony. A few of the townsfolk gave him curious glances but most didn't really care, assuming he was just going about his business. Trotting along, his mind wandered to the differences between Ponyville and Hollow Shades. He didn't get to see much of Hollow Shades during the daytime, so the extra color really stood out compared to home. And the plants seemed, for lack of better word, softer. It was like he traveled across an ocean to a foreign land with only vague similarities.

Reaching town hall, he took a quick look around the square. There were some other ponies his age around, but compared to the adults they were few in number. Adjusting himself in front of town hall, he determined the direction towards Sugar Cube Corner. The large clock off in the distance on the hill seemed to suggest it was close to when school should be ending for the crusaders.

Not wasting another moment, he trotted off towards his objective, getting used to the street layouts without just flying to his destination. He got a little lost on his way to Sugar Cube Corner, but since the crusaders hadn't arrived by the time he arrived, it gave him time to place an order. Somnia had given him a pouch of about fifteen bits to use, courtesy of the Royal Treasury. He trotted up to the counter of Sugar Cube Corner and rang the bell, a pink blur flying from the back room and smiling to him.

"Welcome to Sugar Cube Corner, Nightwind! What can I get for ya?" She happily asked. He thought her name was Pink-something, but didn't really remember all that well from their introduction at the Traders Exchange.

"I, um, what do you have?" He wasn't entirely sure what they made at bakeries since back home the closest thing to a baker made plenty of meat-related confections.

"Let's see... We have cupcakes, muffins, cakes, bread, candies..." She kept listing off more things for another minute, some of which he knew. "...and pies!"

Would a pie be nice? Something they could all share. But what did they like? "Do you have any recommendations? I'm kinda hanging out with--"

"Apple Bloom and Scootaloo?" She smiled back. "I got just the thing, but promise not to give any to Somnia." She trotted into the back room, returning with a box. "Blue-raspberry-apple pie! Blueberries for you, raspberries for Scootaloo, and apples for Apple Bloom!"

"Blueberries for me?" He opened it to take a look at the steaming pie. "How did you know I liked them?"

"That form Twilight made you fill out." Pinkie giggled. "I try to get everypony new to town to fill out one so that I know what they like right away! Wouldn't want somepony to go without their favorites come their birthday."

"Uhhh, thanks? How much will it be?" He slipped off the pouch.

"Fifteen bits for the pie. Oh, and I was told to give you these by Somnia." She brought up a tray with three cups onto the counter.

He blinked a few times, hoofing over the entire pouch. Pinkie grabbed the tray and box, trotting outside with him following behind. Just as Pinkie finished setting the small table, the three crusaders came galloping over.

"We're so sorry! Ms.Cheerilee had us stay after class." Scootaloo sat down in a huff. "You already ordered?"

"I..." He considered telling a lie, but what Somnia had said before bed returned to the forefront of his mind. Honesty would be the best policy with the crusaders. "Yes. Pinkie Pie thought this would be something nice we can share. Blue-raspberry-apple pie."

"Sweetie Belle, do you want to come inside for a minute? I've got something for you too!" Pinkie led the white unicorn filly back indoors while Apple Bloom and Nightwind took their seats at the table.

"It's awfully thoughtful of ya to get us this." Apple Bloom commented before all three clinked their cups and took sips. "Woah, that's--"

In an instant, all three were teleported into an autumn-time forest, leaves gently falling from the trees. They all took a few seconds to look around in panic.

"W-Where are we?" Scootaloo angrily asked Nightwind. "Did you set this up?!"

"What?! No! I-I don't..." Closer inspection of the environment told him it was familiar, but he didn't know why. A path just through the trees caught his attention. "Let's go along that path. M-Maybe we'll find somepony who can tell us where we are?"

"Worth a shot." Apple Bloom deadpanned, glaring at him as she walked past. "But no funny business!"

The three made their way to the path, choosing to head in the direction of a distant mountain. The hilly terrain didn't tell them much, mostly looking out over more trees.

"Hey, do you think that's natural?" Scootaloo pointed to the mountain in the distance. There was what looked like a city between them and the mountain, but both were so far away that measuring distance wouldn't have been possible.

"Of course it is! It's a mountain!" Apple Bloom exclaimed frustrated. "Where the hay are we? I don't recognize these trees. They ain't like the ones around Ponyville."

"They're not." Nightwind answered, distantly staring off a particular sight not far from them. The crusaders turned their gaze to where his lay and froze. The three slowly, and quietly, made their way over.

"Are you sure they'll like this?"

"I'm certain. They just need a small push in the right direction."

"What are you two doing here?" Scootaloo asked to Sweetie Belle and Somnia who sat on a blanket. "Do you know where we are?"

Somnia giggled. "An old memory I reconstructed." She motioned to the trees. "Isn't it beautiful?"

"That hardly answers the questions." Apple Bloom raised a suspicious brow.

"Over there." Somnia pointed off to a nearby clearing through the trees. "There's a picnic basket with all sorts of foods in it. You don't need to worry about what they are made of, you're not actually going to be eating them, merely experiencing the flavor together."

"We're going to be here when you're done so Grar can send us back." Sweetie added, smiling to the filly next to her. "But don't rush."

The three very confused foals trotted to the clearing, seeing it had been setup for a romantic outing. They sat around, taking in the clearing. It looked lovely in the fall colors, a gentle but warm breeze washing over them.

"This is... somethin'." Apple Bloom said, her anger quickly vanishing.

Nightwind groaned, covering his face with his hooves. "Why can't she just let me do this on my own?"

"She probably just wants it to be the best date possible." Scootaloo theorized. "This is a lot better than just going to Sugar Cube Corner."

Moving to the large basket, Apple Bloom opened it and took stock of the items. "Fruit, pie, this thermos, and a bottle of somethin'." She pulled out all the contents, laying them onto the blanket, strategically placing the apples closest to her.

"'An Ode to Friends'?" Scootaloo read off the name on the bottle. "Non-alcoholic refined grape juice."

Scootaloo poured each of them a cup of the juice while they tried the foods and attempted to open the thermos. "Your turn." Apple Bloom passed it over to Nightwind who put some effort into it, eventually it coming loose. He could smell the sauce within as the seal hissed open. Taking a look inside, he saw meatballs poking from the saucy mixture.

"What is it?" Scootaloo asked, taking the thermos from him.

"Meatballs." He stated, wincing at the fillies flinching back.

"W-What? But we can't eat meat!" Apple Bloom protested.

"Hey, remember what Somnia said. We're not actually eating it, only tasting it." Scootaloo reminded her, using a fork to push two meatballs onto the paper plate in front of her. She carefully ate the steaming ball on the plate, taking in the different flavors.

"And?" Apple Bloom asked with morbid curiosity.

"Tastes pretty good actually." Scootaloo finished chewing. "I haven't had anything like it, but the sauce reminds me of what Pinkie puts on those grilled fruits she usually serves at barbecues."

"Ya mean barbecue sauce?" Apple Bloom leaned down and took the other meatball from Scootaloo's plate, popping it into her mouth. "Yeah, it kinda does, not the same though."

"My uncle used to rarely take me out for dinner at the tavern in town. This was one of the few items they served." Nightwind poured a sizable portion onto his plate. "I've missed having them."

The three continued to eat for a bit, Apple Bloom taking a small break after finishing her cup of grape juice. "So what do ya do all day? I know ya don't go to school here in Ponyville, so what keeps ya busy?"

"A lot of reading." He sighed. "I haven't really told you the truth. I'm not in school because I haven't been in school for a few years."

"I wish I didn't have to go to school." Scootaloo groaned. "It sucks!"

"It's not because I didn't want to." He stared down at his mostly empty plate. "There wasn't enough ponies helping with the hunts, so we only learned the most basic things. I learned to read, and spell, but that's about it."

"Wait, you can't write?" Scootaloo asked concerned to which he shook his head.

"We had one teacher in Hollow Shades, and they only would teach us the bare minimum since they were a part of the hunting team. Schooling isn't a very high priority when you're barely getting enough to eat as it is."

The two fillies turned to one another, both thinking of different things. Apple Bloom finally spoke: "Ah'm sorry. Didn't know it was like that where ya lived."

"Do you want to learn how to write?" Scootaloo asked with a smile. "We can teach you. We're practically masters at writing after Ms.Cheerilee started getting us to write essays."

"Masters is puttin' it on a bit thick." Apple Bloom lightly chastised, turning to Nightwind with her own half-smile. "But we can prob'ly help, if ya want."

He smiled back to both of them. "I'd appreciate it a lot."

Sweetie Belle stared up at the clouds passing overhead, thinking about everything Somnia had said. For somepony younger than her, she had gone through quite a lot. Romantically, that is. It somewhat deflated Sweetie's ambitions to hear from Somnia the hard truth about love around their age.

"You get what I'm saying?" Somnia spoke up from next to her, also looking to the clouds above.

"Yeah." Sweetie admitted. She wasn't happy about it, but it made sense. "Do you think I'll ever find somepony?"

"Certainly. Give it time, focus on you and your friends. Somepony will come along when you're a bit older."

"Why are you looking for somepony then?"

"It's complicated." Somnia swallowed. "I've always been more mature than others my age. Part of it is being exposed to it so early, part of it is being an alicorn, and another part is because my family encouraged me."

"Twilight encouraged you?"

"Before she was called Twilight, yeah. My entire family did. Alicorns have problems conceiving, it's only natural to start as early as possible. We may not have the constraints of time, but we still don't want to postpone it."

"Sounds rough." Sweetie considered her next question. "What does being an alicorn have to do with it?"

"We mature faster, mentally and sexually. While our physical growth is restrained by our biology and magic, we try to make the most of our early years. I know unicorns who control their magic earlier are also prone to mature faster. Neither of us are as fast as changelings, but they breed like rabbits." She giggled.

"Why Nightwind then? He seems a bit immature compared to most colts."

"He's the only one I had for a long time." Somnia let out a deep sigh. "Other than the two times Fae and I were fooling around, he was always there for me, and I was always there for him. His mom and dad were killed when he was still young, and my mom and dad weren't around as much as I would have liked. We found comfort with each other."

"So this memory is important to you?"

"Huh? No, this is when Fae and I were fooling around one of those times. My mom and dad were at the other blanket while Fae and I were here. Laying, and staring at the clouds."

Sweetie sat up and turned to Somnia, a hurt expression on on the princess' face. "You miss her, don't you?"

"She was my second friend, and one of the only ones I could rely on to have my back other than the old Nightwind." She closed her eyes, suppressing the tears. "It feels like so long ago since I was playing with her in this forest. I miss her. I-I really do."

Sweetie laid back down a little closer to Somnia so that she could wrap her hooves around her. The two sat cuddled for a few minutes until Somnia decided to speak again, having regained her composure. "Then there's Nightwind. While Fae and I sometimes fought, I never fought with him. We understood each other and what we needed, even if we didn't know why. That's why I went with him, rather than Fae."

"You liked her romantically too?"

Somnia simply nodded. "What I said before, I didn't really mean it. I'm going to have little time for family when I'm older, and I want somepony I know I can trust through the hard patches. Somepony I can trust to raise our foals while I'm ruling."

"There's spells for mares to have foals with other mares. You don't need to choose."

"It's not so simple." Somnia turned to Sweetie. "Those spells work for normal ponies, not alicorns. There's more at play for us due to what we are destined to become. Grar told me about what Excalion did, how she needed to implement certain safeguards to make our kind feasible. One of those was that alicorns can only be conceived naturally, and not with magic. And only with other harmonious ponies. I guess we could have tried sex-swapping stuff, but I don't know if that would have worked."

"Oh." Sweetie readjusted her head on Somnia's chest. The two continued to lay there for a few more minutes before some giggling caught their attention. Sitting up, they both turned to the three others watching them.

"Aww, you two looked comfy." Apple Bloom cooed.

"Ready to go back?" Somnia asked slightly embarrassed.

"Yeah, we're ready." Scootaloo walked forward and sat down on the blanket in front of them followed by Nightwind. "So how do we get back?"

Five potions appeared in front of them. "Drink, unless you want to wait another couple of hours to wake up."

Apple Bloom trotted over and all five of them drank the potions. Reopening his eyes, Nightwind rubbed his head and took a look around the room he was in. From the abundance of sweets and pink, it looked like--

"Hey! You're finally awake!" Pinkie Pie came trotting in, helping each of the four foals get up. "Did you have fun?"

"Yeah, much better than just sittin' around." Apple Bloom smirked to Nightwind. "So what's next?"

"Next?" He glanced between both of his prospective fillies curiously. "What do you mean next?"

"Well, Somnia helped with this one." Sweetie poked his side. "It's only right that you plan the next."

"Oh, uhm..." He wracked his brain for ideas. He remembered a 'bowling alley' listed on the map, whatever that was. "Bowling...?"

"Sounds good!" Pinkie trotted by with several boxes balanced atop her. "Here, each of these are for you. Somnia wanted to give you all something to remember the occasion by."

Taking a quick peek inside his box, Nightwind saw a quarter of the pie he 'ordered'. Surprisingly, all three crusaders bid him farewell hugs as they went their own ways.

Making his way to the castle, he only had one thing on his mind, and he would get it no matter what. Shield then Dusty motioned him in the direction of the one filly he wanted to talk to. He didn't let his mind wander too much as he entered into the library where Somnia was sketching on some paper.

"Did they like it?" She asked, not taking her focus from her task.

"Why did you have to intervene? Why couldn't you let me handle it alone?!" He demanded, getting her attention.

She gently smiled to him. "It was a double date, remember? Come on, did you seriously think I wouldn't get them alone with you? Seems to have worked out, now that you have a second date lined up."

"How would you know?" He asked suspiciously. Truth be told, he couldn't stay mad at her. The date was pretty good, especially after the conversation went onto other, lighter topics.

"Sweetie told me." She simply said. "Or rather, told Scuttle, who relayed it to me."

With a sigh, he relented. "Alright, yeah, it was a good date." His mind thought back to her holding onto Sweetie. "Are you and Sweetie Belle going on a second date?"

"No, not that we have planned. We do plan on getting ice cream and walking around town while yours is happening though." Somnia got up, taking off the device on her hoof and walking over to him to place a hoof on his shoulder. "I knew how anxious you were about making a good first-impression on them. A picnic in an autumn forest is a lot better than just sitting around Sugar Cube Corner. I also thought it would be a good idea to be nearby in case something happened, but from the sounds of it, everything went perfect."

He brought her into a hug, mumbling a single word. "Thanks."

"Anything for my Nightly." She nuzzled into his neck. "I need to get back to work. You can watch, if you want."

"I'd like that." They trotted back over to the table where Somnia was sketching. She picked up the pencil with her griping device and continued her work.

Never get me to do something like that again. It's exhausting to hold, even for only an hour.

I appreciate it, Grar. More than you know.

Underlining the total, Somnia breathed a sigh of relief. Expensive, but well worth the price. Taking the paper with her, she stopped by Twilight's personal study, still in its infancy, and left it on the desk for review when her mother returned. Her walking had gotten good enough to loosen the mechanical frame so that she could canter, a much needed improvement from the slow movement of a week prior.

Trotting back to the library, she entered one of the neighboring rooms and looked around, carefully noting every detail. Every object must be in its proper place. Going from object to object, she made adjustments to their angles and positions. When she adjusted them all just right, a seal in one of the walls revealed itself. Somnia parted the door and entered the stairway. It would be large enough to move a crate down but not large enough for any of the assembled machinery she planned on making.

Light was provided by crystals embedded into the stairway walls, the entire tunnel made of the same blue crystal that the rest of the castle was made out of. Reaching the bottom, she trotted down the barren hall towards the large double doors at the end. A few one-way windows displayed the caverns that ran underneath Ponyville, barely illuminated by small glowing stones.

Pushing open the door carefully, she took a look around the massive room with five decently-sized chambers connected off of it. Only some saddlebags she had left were in the room as she trotted from chamber to chamber, inspecting the size of each area. Moving into the chamber opposite the door, Somnia sat down on the crystal chair the Tree of Harmony had made for her, facing the large mirror opposite her.

Hello, Somnia. The reflection said in her voice, far less enthusiastic than she normally sounds.

"It's really cool. Thanks again for making this for me and adding the extra chamber." She smiled back to them.

If it means your work will be done without concern for security, then it is my pleasure. I understand the need to keep this knowledge from other ponies.

"I'll make sure to pay it back."

I'm certain you will, in one way or another. Isirilas has been speaking to me frequently since he gave you the catalyst. The forest is losing its magic. They will need assistance keeping their forest protected if ponies or other creatures attempt to mistreat them again.

"Oh. I'll help them if ponies try destroying their beautiful forest." Somnia nodded to her reflection. "Do you know where the other catalysts are?"

Two. One you are not ready for, the other will be given when it is due. The remaining three I'm afraid I don't know the locations of.

There were seven. Grar interrupted.

I only know of six. The Beneath only heard of six.

"How did the 'Beneath' hear about them?"

Your sister, Princess Stellar Shimmer, told Star Swirl the Bearded of them. My creator shared their memories with the Beneath so that future generations may learn from them.

Odd. Somnia thought. Grar, is there a reason she wouldn't mention the seventh?

Grar didn't respond to her, choosing to ask the Tree of Harmony a question: Do you know of the purpose of each one?

The six fundamental essences of reality were supposedly represented by them, if that means something to you, Grogar.

Somnia. Grar spoke directly to her. The core of the Excalicorn Amulet wasn't mentioned. I'm unsure of what this means.

You seem to be engaged in discussion. Is there something I should know about this seventh catalyst? The Tree of Harmony asked.

No, it's useless without the other six. Please let us know if you come across it, however.

Of course. You two may wish to return to the mirror portal. Twilight Sparkle has just returned.

"Thank you!" Somnia hopped down from the chair and began to trot back towards the library. Reaching the puzzle room, she moved different objects around and closed the door. Unless somepony knew the exact locations, it would be next to impossible for them to open it effortlessly. Leaving the puzzle room, she headed for the room next-door where her mother was bound to still be. Just leaving the library, Somnia called out to them. "Hi, mom! Hi, Spike! Did everything go well?"

"Somnia!" Twilight walked up to her, giving a hug. "Everything went great! The Sirens lost their magic and Sunset is feeling much better."

"What was wrong anyway?" She released her hug, curious as to what the big deal was.

"The Sirens were using their magic to absorb negative energy from the hue-mans, planning to use it to conquer their world." Twilight yawned. "I should be getting to bed, I can tell you more in the morning. It's been a long couple of days."

"Wait! You'll never believe who's back!" Somnia smiled at her deviously.

"Well, I'm going to bed." Spike left in pursuit of his room while Somnia led her mother further down the hallway. Twilight already suspected who it was, but it didn't help her nerves at seeing them again.

Opening the door to a particular room with a lunar necklace hanging from the door handle, Somnia stepped out of the way of her mother, closing the door behind her to leave them be.

"Good to see you again, princess."

"It's wonderful to see you again, Duskwing. And please, call me Twilight."

Chapter 23: Hopes

"Alright, 'Twilight', how was your trip?" Duskwing approached, the limp on his damaged side being very noticeable. Along that side was a massive scar that stretched down his body from collar to flank, a grotesque reminder of what had happened.

"It went well. I wasn't expecting to see you back so soon." She walked forward to meet him, bringing him into a hug.

"The best doctors in Equestria were assigned to me. I assume that was either your doing or Celestia's." He chuckled. "I see the filly isn't having much trouble walking anymore."

The two separated to sit on the bed next to each other. "A lot has happened in the short time since the Equestria Games. I've been so busy with one thing or another. Sorry I wasn't here when you got out of the hospital."

"No worries. If you ever need a shoulder to cry on, you got both of mine." He winked at her, getting a small blush. "Have you spoken to Nightwind yet?"

"I've only seen you and Somnia since arriving back a few minutes ago. Did something happen while I was gone?"

"Yeah, you could say that. He got two marefriends!" Duskwing laughed.

"What?! But who? And why?!" She asked baffled.

"Don't know why, gotta ask them. Apparently the orange one also wanted in on it at first but backed out after the second date because her old coltfriend came crawling back." He shook his head in amusement, remembering his own time as a colt.

"Scootaloo had a coltfriend?!" Twilight fell back onto the bed followed by Duskwing. "I thought Rumble was only friends with her. How much did I miss?"

"Well, Somnia and Apple Bloom are keeping the little guy busy with dates and lessons. You'll have to ask about what's going on with Scootaloo, I haven't really been told much about her. Somnia also apparently has some not-so-secret lab she's been setting up in the basement, no idea how to get to it though. I got back to town two days ago and had to talk your friend into waiting until you arrived back."

"Arrived back for what?"

The door burst open, the elements jumping in. "Your welcome-back-to-Ponyville-and-Twilight-has-a-coltfriend party!" They all shouted out.

"Girls!" Twilight jumped up and off the bed, going over to meet them for a group hug. "I've missed you, even though it's only been a few days."

"It's been over a week for us, darling. It's so good to have you back." Rarity nuzzled her. "How did everything go in the other world?"

"It went great! We beat the Sirens and Sunset feels like she's accepted by the other students."

"I got the entire throne room setup for the party!" Pinkie squee'd.

"Not so fast, sugarcube. Twi looks mighty tired, maybe we should do it tomorrow mornin'?" Applejack suggested.

Pinkie sighed. "Yeah, okay." Perking up: "I'll go put the food in the refrigerator!"

"I'll come with." Rainbow accompanied Pinkie along with Applejack.

"We'll leave you two be. You probably have a lot to catch up on." Fluttershy gave one last wave back as she and Rarity left, the latter winking to her friend. Turning back to Duskwing, Twilight saw he was playfully pouting on the bed, rubbing the spot next to him. With a giggle, Twilight went back over and laid down next to him.

"So... Somnia, Apple Bloom, and Nightwind?" She asked.

"Yup. Never thought Nightwind would be the herd sort. I know a few batponies who made a herd for themself, but that's because of the severe lack of available quality stallions in Hollow Shades." He stretched his forelegs, putting one around Twilight.

"Smooth." She playfully jabbed him, smiling to herself.

"I never got involved with that though. Too much politics, not enough money, etc. It's not like I haven't been offered by a tenth of the town, I just never had the time with Nightwind and the hunting team."

"You got time now." Twilight turned to him with a sly smile on her face. "Planning on leaving me to raise our daughter so you can form a herd of your own?"

"Nah." He leaned closer to her. "You're a hoofful as it is." He got a light punch to the gut. "Oof, I deserved that."

"Yes, you did." Twilight got up off the bed. "I'm headed to my room. It's been a very tiring couple of days."

He gave another devilish grin. "Is that an invitation, your majesty?"

"In your dreams." She scoffed, walking to the door, pausing just before it. "Actually..."

Turning back, she got into bed and pulled the sheets over herself, settling onto one side. "I think I'll spend the night sleeping here. Hooves to yourself, stallion."

"Wouldn't even dream of it." He chuckled, getting up and walking to the door. "Oh, by the way, it's just after sunrise."

"Everything is in your saddlebags. I know it'll be difficult to pay attention, and that you won't be able to take notes for a bit, but you really need this." Duskwing leaned down to eye level. "You nervous?"

Nightwind nodded, biting his lip. Duskwing brought him into a hug. "It's going to be alright. First day is always tough. Remember your first day in Hollow Shades? Whenever you're stressed, take deep breaths. It'll be alright."

"Thanks, uncle." He mumbled back. A few other students trotted by on their way to the red schoolhouse, paying little mind to the two batponies.

"Anytime, kiddo." He stood back up and waited until Nightwind entered the playground to find the crusaders, giving off a contented sigh before heading back towards town in order to look for a job. If he was going to be living with somepony, he was going to pull his own weight.

Sitting down at the picnic table, Nightwind checked his saddlebags once more to make sure everything was there. It had been years since he went to school, he wanted to make his best first impression on the other foals. It was a new start, one that would hopefully last.

"Eww, where did you crawl out from?" A voice came from behind, causing his back to straighten.

"The Everfree Forest is that way." The gray colored filly walked into his peripheral vision, a pink one on the other side.

He tried his best to ignore them, double-double checking his supplies, but the pink one wouldn't let it go. "What? Are you a new student in our class or something? Didn't think your kind was smart enough to learn anything besides stealing or fighting."

"Leave me alone." He mumbled, checking the binder his family put together for him. He had briefly read through it, although much of it was to supplement what he didn't understand.

"Hey, I'm talking to you!" She got into his face, looking into his bag. "What's that? You have notes already? Not smart enough to make your own, huh?"

"Please..." He closed his eyes. "L-Leave me alone." The filly grabbed his saddle bags, tugging them out of his reach. "Hey! Give those back!"

"You won't need these." She went over to her friend where they began tossing some of the items out. Unbeknownst to the three of them, a filly was watching intensely from across the playground, waiting for a moment exactly like this. The pink filly opened his lunch tin, examining the contents. "Ew, is this meat?!"

"I knew he was a bloodsucker!" The gray one gagged.

"Huh..." The pink one frowned, seeing something within the binder he had been given. "D-Do you--"

"Hey! What are you two doing?" A yellow and green unicorn filly approached the two. "Leave him alone!"

The two bullies glanced to one another confused. The gray one asking: "Are you new here too?"

"I'm not going to tell you again. Buzz off!" She snarled.

"And what are you gonna do about it?" The pink one got up, stepping up to the new filly and donning a smug grin. "I've never seen you around before. What? You actually care about these monsters?"

The filly flicked their eyes to Nightwind. "Sorry about this, kid."

"Kid...?" The two fillies backed away as the filly lit her horn and picked up both of them in her green grasp, the pink one yelling out: "Hey! Let us down!"

"No chance." She marched off towards the entrance of the schoolhouse, leaving Nightwind to pick his stuff back off the ground. He took a look at the page the pink filly seemed hesitant about. Twilight and Somnia had written him a small note about the day's schedule, each also providing words of encouragement. He couldn't help but tear up.

"Nightwind, right?" An older voice came from the behind. He turned to face who he could only assume was Ms.Cheerilee.

"Y-Yeah?" He stuttered back.

"Can you please come inside for a moment?" She motioned for him to follow. He quickly put the last few things into his bags before following after her. Inside the schoolhouse were the two fillies seated across from the yellow filly, her forelegs folded as she glared at them intensely. The two seemed to be a bit worried, but held deceptive smiles in spite of the gaze.

Nightwind took a seat next to the filly who had helped him. Do I know her? He didn't remember seeing her around town, or anywhere for that matter.

"Now then." Cheerilee sat on the chair facing all four. "Would you mind telling me what this is about?"

"They were bullying Nightwind. They called him a bloodsucker and a monster, and were rummaging through his stuff without his permission." The yellow filly declared simply.

"No we didn't! She's lying!" The pink one pointed at her accuser. "We were helping him sort his bags!"

Cheerilee narrowed her eyes on the yellow filly. "I've never seen you around before. Are you also new to town?"

"Kinda." She tilted her head. "But this isn't about me. It's about them and their attitude."

"So you two were just helping him?" Cheerilee turned to the two fillies that gave nods, turning back to the colt: "Nightwind, were they really helping you?"

"N-No..." He admitted.

"That's a lie!" The gray filly declared.

"It's not a lie." The yellow filly narrowed her gaze further. "I was listening to the whole thing."

The teacher shook her head. "I don't know who to believe. Both of you are claiming such different things, and there's no clear proof one way or the other."

"Can I speak to you alone, Cheerilee?" The yellow filly asked.

"Whatever you have to--"

"Alone." She reiterated, expression one of absolute seriousness. With a look to the other foals, Cheerilee motioned them towards the door. Once they had left, the filly stood up and transformed into their true form, Cheerilee fumbling from her chair and stepping back in shock.

"Still think I'm lying?"

"You're going to regret that! You hear me, meat-eater?" The pink one kept close to his face as she trailed him back onto the playground. "I'm not some blank flank nopony like you are!"

"Well well well, if it ain't the blight herself." A voice said from behind, getting the two fillies to face them.

"What do you want, blank flanks? This has nothing to do with you!"

"It doesn't, does it?" Scootaloo walked around them over to Nightwind, turning him back towards the surrounded bullies. "Y'know, he's not quiet as much of a nopony as you think."

Sweetie Belle proceeded to the other side of Scootaloo. "You wouldn't really know about that, which is why you're probably going to be in for a rude awakening when Scuttle gets back out here."

"Scuttle? What kind of name is that?" Silver Spoon scoffed.

It was Apple Bloom's turn. Moving around next to Nightwind, she placed a hoof around his withers. Her smug grin was wider than it had been in a long time. She let it hang for just a moment, savoring it as the two adults walked up behind the bullies. "My coltfriend's bodyguard."

"You dun bucked up, kids." A rough voice came from behind. The two slowly turned to see an armored changeling standing next to a furious Cheerilee.

"Both of your parents will know what you have been up to. I can't believe I didn't see it before, but this is the last straw! This is going to end today!" She turned to the rest of the playground. "Alright, everypony! Time for class!"

The fillies and colts made their way to the doors, the nervous Diamond Tiara and terrified Silver Spoon quickly falling in with the crowd while the crusaders and Nightwind remained outdoors for another minute.

"H-How long?" Nightwind turned to Scuttle.

"For you, just today, but I've been monitoring the playground for a little while now." He shrugged. "I'll leave you be once they have learnt their lesson. It wasn't the first time they tried messing with the queen or her friends."

"She mocked me because I couldn't fly and they've been calling us blank flanks for years." Scootaloo walked up to him. "We've had enough of them and their bullying. We couldn't get Ms.Cheerilee to listen, so we talked to Somnia about it. She offered to have Scuttle watch over the playground to listen and report what happened."

"They'll learn their lesson, and they'll be better off for it." Scuttle nodded. "You all should get inside to class. Don't want to miss anything."

"You're sitting on the other side of me." Sweetie told Nightwind, trotting past towards the door. "Come on!"

Nightwind lagged a bit, giving one last smile to Scuttle. "Thanks."

"Nopony deserves to be treated like they're a monster because of the type of pony they are." He gently smiled back. The colt trotted off into the schoolhouse, leaving Scuttle to return back to town for the scavenging Somnia wanted to do on the library. Never in his life did he think that he'd be helping ponies--

No, he was a pony too. The queen was adamant about that. In the time since saving Somnia, he had become less reliant on love-supplements, going days without even feeling the need. Was this what she meant? Having friends, and those who treated you like family, was it really all the changelings needed not to go hungry?

Tapping her hoof on the ground, Somnia 'supervised' the structural evaluations on the charred husk of the old library from just outside the ruins. Flying above were Dawny and Scuttle while Shield and Love 'carefully' examined the remains. It had been a few days since her mom got back, and she wanted to get this out of the way before some other situation occurred.

"And?" She called out to anypony.

"Basement's been partially collapsed." Shield yelled out.

"Even I can see the sagging on the floor. Seems structurally sound enough though." Dawn also answered from above.

"Is it possible to access?" She trotted into the ruins, going to the old door that led to the basement.

"Not that way." Love chopped the floor with an axe they borrowed from Applejack. "We gotta make our own entrance."

"How long do you think that will take?"

"Days if we get an hour or two with the axe each day." Shield rubbed the back of his head while Scuttle swooped down to another part of the charred remains. "Less if we get a second axe."

"I can ask Mr.Oak if he has one." Somnia suggested.

"Or we could just use magic." Dawn landed next to Somnia.

"No, the materials in the lab may become reactive. We need to do this manually." She refuted. "We don't know how many of the compounds broke, and if it was all of them then it's an alchemical time-bomb!"

"That's a pleasant thought." Love took another swing at the wood, starting to make a small hole where she chipped away at.

"You know more about them than us. How dangerous could it be?" Shield asked concerned.

"If the soulsand mixed with the nightshade essence and rabid ginger roots, then it's an anti-biological weapon capable of wiping out the town in a haze of red mist!" She considered the possibility after a second. "But that would have eaten through the wood, so I don't think that happened."

Dawn began kicking away at the door to the basement, breaking through to the other side with his bucks. Taking a quick look in, he frowned at the mountain of debris blocking the path downstairs. Walking back to Somnia was Scuttle with a few charred books in his saddlebags.

"These are still in decent condition. Only the edges have damage. Don't know how the first sweep missed them." He passed one of the books to Somnia who looked it over.

"These can go back to mom. She'll want to see how they are and maybe reorder them." She passed the book back. "The cover is from dragon-sneeze trees. Fire resistant."

"Probably should have fireproofed the entire library." Shield mumbled, warily turning to the ashy remains around him. "Shame the entire upper floor was destroyed, that's where the good stuff was."

Somnia sighed, trotting away. "Let me know how it goes!" She yelled back to Dawn and Love while setting off with Shield towards the town blacksmith. Her to-do list only had a few entries, but each one was necessary to continue her work. Arriving back at Smoky's Smithy, he finished hammering away at a metal bar before turning to her.

"If it isn't my favorite customer! What can I do for ya this time?" He sat down at the small table used to negotiate with customers, Somnia taking out a small stack of papers from her saddlebags.

"I need these produced." The papers had various sketches of small components she would be using along with the necessary materials. "Invoice the Royal Treasury as usual."

He took a look through the papers, examining each one. "This is very intricate. Are all these details needed?"

"Every last one." Somnia stressed.

"I'll start work on the larger ones, but the smaller ones will take some time like usual. As you know, it's not as easy to forge items this small. What are you even building this time? A clock?" He chuckled as he continued flipping through the pages.

"Something more complicated." She took out one last sheet of paper. "These are the details for the invoice. Keep it in your files and make sure to include the numbers at the top along with a complete itemized list of the items produced when you submit it."

"Gotcha." He flipped another page, flicking his eyes between Somnia and the paper. "I'm not even going to ask what this is for."

"Good." Somnia got down from her seat and trotted out towards her next destination: Sweet Apple Acres. She needed a certain type of fertilizer, and the best place to get it was the farm. She casually trotted past the sign, straight up to the door and knocked.

A few seconds later, Applejack opened the top half. "Howdy, Somnia! Lookin' for Apple Bloom?"

The filly asked as sweetly as she could, an innocent smile on her face and with fluttering eyes: "Can I buy some dung?"

Applejack scrunched up her nose. "I'll show you to the pig pens."

She closed the upper half and opened the entire door, leading the filly towards the pig pens. The pigs were happily laying around in the pen, oblivious to what their excrement would be used for.

"Here they are." Applejack motioned. "You can see the occasional droppin' left behind by 'em... where are ya goin'?" She asked as Somnia entered the pen and headed not towards the old piles, but a fresh one. Taking out two jars and a potion from her other saddlebag, she carefully scooped up the fresh dung into the first.

Marching up to one of the pigs, she poured the potion onto her hoof and rubbed the pig's back. It looked back to her before going wide eyed, at which point Somnia positioned the other jar to catch the fresh droppings it excreted to the horror and disgust of Applejack. The filly didn't even mind the occasional bit that got onto her hooves or the urine running down her back-legs. Closing the lids on the jars, she put them back into the dedicated saddlebag and walked back out of the pen.

"So how much will it be?"

"What in tarnation was that about?!"

"There wasn't enough." Somnia shrugged. "I came prepared in such a case. How much do you want for two jars?"

"Uhh..." Applejack turned to Shield who was indifferent to the entire display or the filthy filly. "Forty bits?"

"Done. Stop by the castle after I clean up and I'll give them to you." She coughed, giggling lightly. "Geez, I smell." She trotted off, giving one last wave to Applejack: "Thank you!"

"No problem?" Applejack turned back to the contented pig, completely baffled at what she just witnessed.

"Shoot me." Somnia closed her eyes as the water sprayed over her and the saddlebags. Shield walked around her, making sure to clean enough of her so that she wouldn't trail it into the castle before moving on to clean off the jars. They were just outside the castle, a hose running down from one of the nearby houses was generously granted for her use, if only so the resident didn't have to smell her anymore.

"All clean." Shield declared after finishing off with her hooves.

"Got the towels." Dusty walked over with two towels on her back. "What did you do to get..." She spotted the jars. "Oh."

"Do you want more hoof-canon shots, or not?" The filly raised a brow.

"I'm not complaining." She tossed the towels onto Somnia, at which point Shield used his magic to begin rubbing her down.

"I still liked my idea better." Shield chuckled. "To see the look on Twilight's face as you slide across the floor on a towel looking like you just came from a Manehattan sewer would have been priceless."

"I already had to walk through town like that, I'm not going to risk upsetting her." Somnia rebuked. Once dry enough, Somnia went directly to her room where she hopped into the shower. Two layers of shampoo and two extra clean jars later, she trotted her way to the puzzle room with her saddlebags and entered.

Pushing open the double doors to her lab, she smiled at the sight of her newest shipment next to the tables. Without delay, she began unpacking the alchemy equipment onto the benches. While she would move it to its proper area once reactor construction began, for right now it was fine where it was. Truth be told, the explosive used in the hoof-canon was only partially why she got the manure. The other reason was far more potent.

Hopping onto the table, she began to carefully assemble the alchemy setup, making sure that everything was in its right place. It had been so long since she had her own setup, no longer needing to go to Zecora's hut to brew the few potions she had made. This new station would suffice until she introduced electricity, at which point it would become even more complicated.

She carefully got down from the table and checked each of the parts of the setup, making sure everything was working as intended. Grabbing the alchemical cleaner she bought from a local store, Somnia quickly ran it through the system to purge unwanted contaminants, using every system to ensure proper function. Besides needing to tighten a single spot, it was ready for the project.

She grabbed five other ingredients she had acquired by various means, carefully prepping them for creation of what would be her most complicated project yet. All six ingredients were measured to perfection, failure couldn't be afforded when working with volatile substances. She worked tirelessly for several hours, keeping her eyes on the prize. Through the system the different fluids were flowing, combining, reacting, and ultimately separating until only one pure solution remained at the end.

Carefully dripping the yellow liquid into a small vial, she breathed a sigh of relief. Enough to cause the intended effect, but not so strong as to cause a psychotic break.

"What is that for?" Twilight asked from next to the setup, having stayed out of the way until this point. Somnia knew she was there the past three minutes, but she was too focused on the process at work.

"In case another Tirek shows up." Somnia began to perform purges on the leftover materials, putting them away into the run-off flasks for later reuse. "If another creature like him shows up, drink this and kill them."

"Kill them?" Twilight examined the vial. "What even is it?"

Somnia sat down on one of the chairs she had dragged down, the energy draining from her system from the potion she drank at the start. "It's a magical elixir meant to produce a single surge of energy. When I saw you raising the sun, I considered the applications of cutie mark magic." She motioned to the ingredients. "Heart's Desire, Poison Joke, Scorchflowers, ground up mana crystals, and dung, carefully prepared in a certain order with specific regents. After you drink it, you will feel a massive magical surge stronger than when you had the other princesses' magic. Fire the laser, and wipe out everything in front of you."

Twilight picked it up in her magic, carefully examining it. "I didn't think it was possible to do something like this."

"It isn't for a normal pony." Somnia took off her glove, revealing a bloodied bandage. "My blood was mixed in to access the energies within the world via Tartarus, similar effect as when Celestia raises the sun, but much stronger. This can wipe out an entire mountain in a single burst, if my calculations are correct."

"You..." Twilight put the vial back in its holster, cantering over to Somnia to examine her hoof. "How much blood?"

Somnia raggedly sighed, the last bits of alchemical energy leaving her bloodstream. "Too much." Before collapsing into Twilight's forelegs. "I'm fine, j-just a little light headed."

"We really should get you to--"

"No, I'm fine. It's already clotted. I've made sure of that before I started the experiment."

Taking another look at the alchemy setup, Twilight finally noticed the blood runes carved into the table, some still glowing slightly. This wasn't just alchemy, this was dangerous magic banned from use within Equestria and most other areas she knew of. But how would she even know how to do that?

"Somnia, where did you learn how to do blood magic?"

"A book from the Castle of the Two Sisters." She breathed out, taking her time with her words. "I found it in the old basement lab. Celestia and Luna aren't as innocent in what they do as everypony believes. Magic forbidden since before Fae became queen, practiced right under the noses of ponies by those who stand to gain the most by having it banned."

While she was surprised to hear this, it didn't surprise her that the regal sisters would do such things in private. Carrying Somnia upstairs, she asked the next question. "Where's the book located?"

"Your private study. I'm keeping my books there until I get some bookshelves downstairs."

Quickly taking Somnia back to her room and ordering Dusty to personally watch her, Twilight headed to her study. It was a repurposed room on the other side of the library from the lab entrance. About the same size as the puzzle room, a little smaller than the bedrooms. It contained a crystal desk with a comfy chair behind it and a single bookshelf so far, if you didn't include the Equestrian flag that hung from one of the walls. Reading the names of the different books, she picked out a nameless one made of charred leather, carrying it to her desk.

She spent the next two hours combing over the book, taking note of as many details as she could. The ritual Somnia had to have performed required a full pony's worth of blood, something she wouldn't have been able to provide in a single day. Going back down to the lab with the book in her grasp, she compared the runes carved into the table with those in the book. Most lined up, but it was far too complex according to what the book had recorded down as the steps to 'harness the Fires of Tartarus'.

Then she began tracing the symbols, looking for exactly what each interacted with. The book provided more complicated rituals, some of which were comparable in complexity. While she read on the chair next to the equipment, the occasional scribbles from Celestia, Luna, or a third writer would appear. It wasn't from Somnia, as her writing was a lot neater, and it was written in Old Ponish, but wasn't like Star Swirl's messy horn-writing. The insights each provided into blood magic were fascinating, far surpassing what she had written an essay about years prior, and she made sure that essay was fully researched without actually reading the banned texts.

The third writer took note of different rituals that a pony can perform involving...

She got off of the chair and examined the engravings at the side. They were no longer glowing, but had been activated within the past day. Apparently meditation with certain runes could provide protection against Tartarus' evil entities, shielding the caster from being detected while they performed a ritual under a certain threshold, although these runes weren't like the ones listed. Going back over to the runes on the table, she grabbed a mostly empty flask that contained a few remaining droplets of blood, strategically dripping them onto certain runes and igniting her horn to examine the magical flow.

It all began to click as to what Somnia had done. She meditated to perform a certain task, likely to rapidly increase the blood production of her body and protect herself, then used the table runes to simultaneously activate two rituals, one that involved the 'Fires of Tartarus' and the other involving a 'blood bond', in this case bonding to a certain signature. Quick examination of the runes and extrapolation based on the other runes depicted in the book led her to the conclusion only she, Somnia's biological mother, and the filly herself would be able to drink the potion for its effects to activate.

"Damn... That's ingenious." Twilight voiced out loud, floating over some spare paper and a pen Somnia had left laying around, quickly taking note of all the different runes she had carved as well as the connection to the alchemy setup.

This is going to make for an excellent scientific paper! Twilight almost squealed in excitement. I'm going to have to ask her about this further when she gets up.

Let them come.

Are you sure?

Do it!

Somnia focused as Grar opened a temporary rift to the small chamber of her mind, allowing the entities on the outside to come in. Just as intended.

Once they got over their hesitation, the monstrous beasts flooded through the opening without end, all charging Somnia down.

This is my domain! Let this be the first of many lessons until I come for you in your home! Your days are numbered, foul demons! She quoted an old adventure novel and activated her horn, a function exclusive to her within the 'dreamscape', firing off a blast that vaporized two of the beasts instantly and giving pause to the others.

She galloped forward, firing off laser after laser banishing them back to Tartarus. They got close, some even managing to scratch her, but she was too much alone. This was her home territory, and she was invincible. They would gash her with their claws, the 'wound' being healed as quickly as it appeared. They swarmed her, quite literally piling against her in waves that broke under her magical might.

Each shot was deliberate and calculated. Dozens were wiped from the pocket of her mind with each blast, making room for even more to fill the void left behind. She sped up her motions by internally slowing her perception of time, rapidly carving her way into the horde that charged her down with blast after blast of focused magic.

The minor spawn were routed after two minutes of intense fighting, giving her the opportunity to chase them down to the very hole they had come from. Once the last limped from her mind, Grar closed the hole and began reinforcing it while Somnia rested.

"They... hit hard..." She panted out.

They are much weaker than the ones in the universe at large or in physical space. Here they are weakened by the Golden World. A suggestion for next time: Don't get hit. Getting hit directly impacts your mental defenses, draining you of energy to keep fighting. There are also other spells I can show you in order to delay their approach.

"Maybe another time." She fell to the non-existent ground, half-giggling half-panting. "That was awesome!"

It isn't as awesome when innocent lives are at stake. Here there is only you and me to worry about... Hold on. He opened the hole again, letting in a familiar entity.

"Good heavens, Somnia, are you hurt?" Luna landed next to her, checking the filly over with her magic.

"Did you see them running?" Somnia giggled to the mare standing over her.

"Did you..." She finished scanning the filly. "You aren't hurt?"

"Nah, they put up quite a fight before running though." Somnia sighed in relief. "Wanna practice with me next time?"

"Somnia, they are incredibly dangerous! You could have been killed, or worse, corrupted!"

"It's fine, they learned their lesson for now. Besides, that stone gave me near total control of my mind." Somnia ignited her horn and sealed the hole behind Luna.

"W-What are you doing?" She backed away from the now devilishly grinning filly who stood back up.

"Showing you something." She swirled energies around her, slowly at first but rapidly quickening. In front of her a Tartarus beast was constructed. "They weren't expecting me to capture a few for study, which makes them a valuable source of information and target practice."

"Somnia! Don't you dare--" Luna quickly flew into the air as the beast leapt at her. "What are you thinking?! That thing could kill us!"

"It won't." Somnia walked up to the beast growling at Luna, petting its head with a summoned hoof to the beast's confusion and annoyance. "I'm in complete control. It will never strike a damaging blow against you."

Luna lit her horn and circled the creature from above, firing laser after laser into it until it collapsed into magical sparks. "What? It was supposed to be destroyed completely!"

"I'm in control here." Somnia let out the breath she was holding. "It's attacks are measured by me, it's core is under my protection. Those last two lasers I took directly while I returned it to an isolated part of my mind."

"This is insane! Let me out!" Luna demanded, landing near to her.

"Very well." Somnia lit her horn and reopened the hole. "You are free to go, for now. But I'm warning you: Call off your undercover guards. If they aren't gone by tomorrow at noon, I'm sending the Queen's Guard to eliminate them."

"You would just have them killed?!" Luna angrily stepped towards her. "Twilight said--"

"I was wrong." Somnia declared sternly, her expression one of defiance and absolute seriousness. "I was wrong about my grandma. Sometimes a show of force is necessary to prevent more ponies from being hurt. If the three or however many guards you have aren't gone when the clock strikes twelve, we'll bury them in the Everfree Forest in a nice clearing that Isirilas picked out close to the path for their family to visit. Their blood will be on your hooves."

"Murder is a first-class felony punishable by long term imprisonment!" Luna shouted back.

"I'm not taking anymore of either of your orders. I'll do what I want to do, with or without your approval. If it's in the interests of Equestria, I'll help. If it's for my own good, I'll accept it. But I will not accept being controlled like a puppet!" Somnia tone shifted to light smile. "Please reconsider training with me. It gets awfully boring at night."

Luna bit back her response and flew from the small dreamscape back to where she came from, leaving Somnia to close the hole behind her.

You're playing a dangerous game.

"She'll see the light, eventually." Somnia sighed. "If only that could be said about Celestia."

Do you know what we will do about her when the time comes?

"Not yet. I don't want to kill her, or imprison her, or anything like that. I hope that she will step down and retire from politics when I'm ready to become queen properly. She's still family, and has done a lot for me since I arrived in Equestria."

The hardest choices require the strongest wills. Yours is unmatched, and the choice is only yours to make. There are likely several years before something needs to be done, so let us revisit this later on.

"Yeah, okay."

A knock at Somnia's door distracted her from the task at hoof. Taking off the grip-glove, she trotted over to the door and opened it to the friendly faces of her family.

"Hey, Somnia! Are you coming to the party?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Yup!" She trotted out on the other side of Twilight, opposite Spike. Trailing behind slightly were the colts, both having their own unoriginal thoughts. "Eyes up, Nightwind."

"Same goes for you, Duskwing." Twilight added, biting her tongue to suppress a blush.

Somnia giggled as Duskwing continued to stare at his marefriend's swishing tail that got ever so slightly more swishy. Her mom and dad seemed to be getting along, which was good considering what happened two weeks ago. Her own thoughts drifted to Nightwind behind her, getting her to fall back so she could walk with him. While he was embarrassed about being caught, he accepted her nuzzles into his neck.

Duskwing briefly quickened his pace to get in line next to Twilight, and from where she was, Somnia could make out the conversation.

"Is he your adopted son or something?"

"And number one assistant!" Spike proudly declared.

"Both of those." Twilight giggled. "I hatched him when I was trying out for Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns. He's been with me ever since."

"Hatching a dragon egg can't be easy."

"It wasn't. Only with a magical surge from the sonic rainboom my other friend Rainbow Dash made was I able to get him to hatch."

"I heard that something weird happened back then. Unexplained natural phenomenon, according to the big brains from Cloudsdale."

"And when did you hear about this?"

"Yesterday, when Rainbow Dash told me."

"Right." She playfully bumped him with her hips. Opening the door to the throne room, confetti showered them from seemingly nowhere and the elements cheering out for their friend. While the others spoke to Twilight and Duskwing, Somnia picked up some of the confetti to examine.

Shame about what I'll have to do to her eventually.

Let's not think of this right now. This is supposed to be an occasion to celebrate!

Duskwing and Twilight were seated next to each other, a chair having been pulled up next to Twilight's throne for her coltfriend. Each of the elements were taking their places on their thrones after getting various snacks from around the room as Somnia closed her eyes. Three... Two... One...

The area in the center of the thrones began sprouting crystal, spreading out to create a table, a holographic display shimmering to life with a geographical map of Equestria, small models being in certain places to indicate where various notable locations were. From her perspective, Somnia could see unique energy signatures coming from different parts of Equestria. Different sections had unique patterns, some stronger than others, but none would help find the catalysts.

"This is incredible! It's got all of Equestria!" Spike exclaimed, hopping up onto the table.

"Hi, mom and dad!" Pinkie leaned to down to view the little rock farm that was promptly stepped on by Spike, drawing tears.

Somnia saw tendrils extend from the map to each of the elements, grabbing a small trace of them before floating them back over to the table. She decided to open her eyes to watch it unfold in real time. The visual representations of their cutie marks rotated around a particular point in the eastern Crystal Mountains.

"But if this is Ponyville, why are our cutie marks over there?" Fluttershy asked.

"I don't know. But it seems like the map wants us to find out. The tree, the chest, this castle, and now the map. How can we not follow it?" Twilight rhetorically asked.

"Y'know what? There's a ton of room for dangerous adventure along that route. Count me in!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"Aw, shoot, I reckon you're right." Applejack agreed.

"Well, I was hoping to finish this party then organize my baking sheets, but okay!" Pinkie excitedly added.

With a sigh from Rarity: "Very well."

"Um, maybe I'll just stay here with Spike and Somnia." Fluttershy suggested.

"Awesome! Me and Big Mac have a huge weekend ahead of us talkin' hoofball, and... and trading hoofball cards, and arguing about hoofball stats..." Spike smirked to her.

"O-On second thought, m-maybe I'd better go with them. In case they need me."

"Looks like it's time for a road trip!" Twilight declared, turning to Duskwing. "Do you mind looking after Somnia while I'm gone?"

"Not a problem." He put a hoof around her withers. "You can count on me."

"Thanks, handsome." She sarcastically rubbed her nose on his, getting some coo's from the other elements. "That settles it, let's go get packed!"

The elements all dispersed while Duskwing, Spike, and Somnia stuck around in the throne room.

"Hoofball, eh?" Duskwing smiled to Spike. "I could get into that."

"W-Well..." He nervously chuckled.

"I want in." Somnia happily declared. "I don't know anything about hoofball, but it will be a great chance to spend time together!"

"I-It's not a-actually hoofball." Spike rubbed the back of his neck. "It's actually O-Ogres & Oubliettes..."

"Is that a game of some sort?" Duskwing raised a brow.

"I'll go get the rules." Spike ran from the room, leaving the curious loiterers to sit on their respective chairs. Duskwing had claimed Twilight's throne, while Somnia sat in Rarity's. The filly closed her eyes, examining the world in slow motion.

"You tired?" Duskwing asked curiously.

"Shhhhh..." She tilted her head, listening. "Do you hear that?"

"Hear what?"

"Hmm, I guess not yet." She opened her eyes, smiling to her dad. "This will be something fun to do while they're gone. I don't know what Ogres & Oubliettes is, but sounds like it could be fun."

"Roll for perception." Spike turned back to Somnia who rolled the dice. Unbeknownst to everypony else, Somnia could predict the outcomes of every dice roll and deliberately choose whether it would succeed or fail. It made for some interesting situations, especially when she would get a Natural 1 on purpose just to see how the others would react, or Natural 20 on meaningless things.

Rolling, she positioned it so she would barely fail the roll. "You see nothing helpful in the abandoned shed."

"Well, what is in the shed?" She asked.

"A broom and a broken rake."

"I grab the broken wooden end of the rake." She declared.

"It's not even useful!" Spike threw his claws into the air exasperated. "Why are you collecting all this junk?!"

"You'll see." She winked, not actually having an plan for the collection. A stretchy frayed rope, two dozen small rocks, two medium sized rocks, various nails and screws, bits of bark from several trees, a roll of twine, pieces of wood she picked up off the ground, and now a broken rake.

"Typical Grubber..." Big Mac shook his head.

"Hey, isn't this supposed to be role playing?" Duskwing questioned. "Can I steal the broom?"

"It's abandoned!" Spike huffed. "Nopony owns it! What are you even going to do with a broom?!"

"What about if I take off the end of it and turn it into a staff?"

"Roll for ingenuity." Spike rubbed his eyes as Duskwing rolled a Nat-1.

"That's bad, isn't it?" He nervously smiled.

"Wedging the broom under a rock, you jump onto it and break it into splinters." Spike sighed. "Are we ever going to get into battle with the group of enemies just over the hill?"

"Where's the fun in that?" Somnia shrugged. "Screwing around is half the fun."

"I go to the top of the hill and scout the group of skeletons." Big Mac said, receiving a sigh from Spike.

"Roll a D-100." The red stallion nervously rolled the dice, resulting in a 47.

"What's gonna happen?"

"Due to your armor's reflective properties, they catch a glimpse of you from atop the hill and move in on your position." Spike declared, straightening up triumphantly. "Sir McBiggun is atop the hill closest to the charging enemies, both Grubber the Insane and Featherflight are at the bottom of the hill on the opposite side. Roll for initiative."

Each of them rolled a D-100, Somnia receiving a 96 while Big Mac had a 73 and Duskwing a 28. Spike did a few hidden rolls for the enemies.

"Alright, there's four enemies in total. Two skeleton warriors, a skeleton archer, and a lesser necromage. Grubber, you rolled highest so you begin."

"I make a slingshot crossbow with the junk I've been collecting." Somnia giggled at the confused yet annoyed expression on Spike's face.

"WHAT?! How?! It's junk!"

"Want a demonstration?" She raised a brow. "Or can I roll?"

"If it succeeds, I want a demonstration or it's an automatic failure." He sighed.

Rolling, Somnia rolled a Nat-20, smirking to Spike. "How about that?"

"Prove it!" He glared at her.

Getting down from her throne, she galloped out of the throne room while the others continued. Spike did a few hidden rolls. "The skeleton archer fires an arrow at Sir McBiggun."

"I deflect it with my sword!"

"Roll for dexterity." He watched as Big Mac rolled. "16, minus the penalties from armor, 8, and the rolls of the archer means... you take five damage." Spike shrugged.

He slumped back in his chair while Spike moved the cardboard cut-outs of the warriors closer and the mage 'cast' an illusion spell to reduce ranged attack accuracy against them. "Alright, Featherflight, what are you going to do?"

"Can I charge them?" Duskwing asked curiously.

"You don't have a line of sight, and you aren't in range." Spike deadpanned.

"Can I fly over to Sir McBiggun?"

Spike quickly checked his reference sheet. "You can get most of the way up the hill, all the way if you exhaust yourself and sit out the following round."

"I go most of the way, but not right to Sir McBiggun."

"Fine." Spike looked around. "Where's Somnia? It's her turn!"

"I'm here!" She called back, breathing heavily with saddlebags on her back, different pieces of wood sticking out. "I got the stuff!" Dumping out the items onto the table: "Look adequate for the demonstration?"

"Yup. I'll skip your turn while you make it. Sir McBiggun, your turn."

Spike kept his eyes on Somnia while she worked. Using a medium sized rock, she hammered the nails and screws into the wood to combine the pieces while using the twine to double secure it. Once finished with the general frame, she put one rock onto the ground and threw the other directly into it, breaking it half. She used the edge to make small carvings to fit the rope on with a bark sling, tying it all together with more twine. She grabbed one of the small rocks she had brought and put it into the sling made of bark, pulling it back with all her strength.

"Believe me?" She fired it at the wall, breaking the rock against the crystal.

All three of them hadn't even moved since she started, all watching in fascination. "Woah." Big Mac uttered.

"S-So what do you do?" Spike turned back to him.

"I retreat from the hill."

"Okay, you run back down the hill towards Featherflight. The four skeletons continue to approach. The two warriors are now on top of the hill. Featherflight?"

"I fall back towards Grubber."

Spike sighed. "You can't run forever, but fine, you return to where you started from. Grubber, what's your move?"

"I fire a rock at one of the Sir McBigguns' leg to disable movement." The other three stared at her quizzically.

"Hold on, you can't pick specific body parts." Spike countered.

"Come on, where's the fun in that?" She playfully pawed at him. "They aren't real. It's alright if sticks and stones break their bones. Or at least hold them in place for a turn or two."

With a sigh: "Roll for dexterity."

Somnia giggled as she tossed the die, 17, barely passing. All three stared at the die in disbelief.

"Sir McBiggun, do you dodge?"

"Eeyup!" He rolled the die, resulting in a 3 and a disgruntled mumble as he crossed his forelegs.

Spike turned back to Somnia. "Roll for critical?"

"You fire the rock and it hits Sir McBiggun's leg, crippling him from moving for two turns." Spike said in utter confusion. "Sir McBiggun, what are you going to do?"

"I stand my ground." He stated in disappointment, glaring at Somnia. "Can't move, now can I?"

"The two skeleton warriors approach you and attack. Roll for endurance."

"With your extra endurance from your armor, you take no damage from their combined attack." Spike scratched his head. "The skeleton archer and mage move to the top of the hill. The archer fires an arrow at Featherflight and Grubber." He rolled in secret. "It missed."

"I pull the rope back on the crossbow." Duskwing smirked at Spike.

"O-kay... You pull the rope back. Grubber...?"

"I aim for the necromatic sigil on the mage with my crossbow and fire."

"Roll for dexterity..."

20!

"Roll for damage?"

20!

"Roll for crit?!"

20!

All three blinked a few times each as they saw the result. Quickly checking the strength stat of Featherflight, the necromage's highest armor stat, and the properties of the 'necromatic sigil' according to the eighth edition rules, he gave a deep sigh. "You fire the rock at the sigil, breaking it into pieces, unleashing the energy from the necromage, defeating all three other skeletons and knocking down Sir McBiggun. You win..." He hit his head on the table as Somnia squealed in delight while hugging Duskwing.

"Am I alright?" Big Mac asked worriedly.

"You had barely enough life. You're down to one life point." Spike turned up from his reference sheets, squinting annoyedly at Somnia. "That was supposed to be the big battle, you know!"

"What about the loot?" Duskwing struggled out under the crushing grip. "Anything interesting?"

"An enchanted spear, two enchantment stones, and a pouch with assorted gemstones." Spike checked his notes. That was everything he had planned for the starter session. Tavern, bounty board, basic combat tutorial, small travel segment, big battle to finish off. And they managed not only to avoid the basic combat tutorial due to a taming check from Featherflight, but the traveling section went far longer than he intended, taking them towards a destroyed cottage to 'investigate'.

"We'll take it all!" Big Mac declared. "Time to head back to town!"

"That's all I had..." Spike mumbled, returning his glare at Somnia. "Were you cheating?"

She gasped. "How could you accuse me of such a thing? It's not like I can see the future or anything." The filly picked back up the makeshift crossbow, loading another stone. "Catch."

She fired it over Spike's head, getting him to duck. "Somnia! What was that for?!"

Caught it. Excalion cawed from behind him, flying over to place it on the table. I really should be the one in charge of story telling. I won't run out of ideas or allow Somnia to cheat. Also so you can play as well, Spike.

"Fine. What happens next?" He looked to the bird that strutted along the table, levitating a few pencils around it as it began drawing on the spare cardboard cutouts.

The trip back isn't nearly as calm as the trio expected. Featherflight carried Sir McBiggun upon their back, straining from the added pressure. Ahead of them, a robed figure was reading a map--

"I approach and sneeze on their map!" Somnia laughed.

"What?" The three guys asked at the same time.

Before you could get too close, the robed figure turns to you, revealing themself to be none other than the renowned magician, Garbunkle!

"Halt, adventurers! It is I! Garbunkle of Spiketopia!" Spike mimicked what he believed Garbunkle to sound like. "Are you locals to these parts?"

"Hips fillibreak, Garbunkle! It is good to meet another fellow scholar of the arts!" Somnia gave off a crackly and old voice for her character. "Do you have flowers on that map of yours? Or are you just slipping in the mud?"

"Ignore her, honorable one." Big Mac humbly stated. "She's lost more than a few marbles."

"I groan and drop Sir McBiggun to the ground. He can walk on his own." Duskwing playfully rolled his eyes.

"Pray tell, from where do you hail, knight?" Garbunkle asked.

"My king abandoned their duty to the people." The indomitable knight got up onto their hooves. "I left to seek help in defeating the Squizard!"

"It wouldn't happen to have been the king of Spiketopia, would it?" The enchanter approached. "I left in seek of help against the forces of the Squizard in the service of Lady Shmarity."

"Might as well call her Charity." Somnia snickered, getting a blush from Spike.

"I-It's a normal name in Spiketopia!" He defended.

Focus, adventurers. The leaves surrounding you rustle with an unnatural breeze, chills running down your backs. Limping down the pathway from the hill, a half charred skeleton approaches with a fire from where their sigil formerly was...

"Good to see you again, Princess Twilight." Dawn opened the door to the castle to allow her entry, the princess only giving the briefest of smiles as she trudged past. Going straight for her room, she didn't even bother to get ready for bed before collapsing down on it. Giving a content sigh, Twilight pulled the sheets over herself, getting a bit of pull back.

Lighting up her horn, she stared into the amused smile of a thestral. "Have a nice trip?"

"GAH!" She shot up. "What are you doing in my bed?!"

"This is my room, remember?" He chuckled, sitting up to face her. "What happened?"

Twilight settled back onto the bed, although she stayed above the sheets. "A pony named Starlight Glimmer had enslaved her entire village. We helped the townsfolk see through her lies."

"Is she getting comfy in a dungeon cell in Canterlot?"

"No, she escaped." Twilight sighed. "I tried getting through to her, but she didn't want to listen."

"Hey, it's alright. You can't win every battle." Duskwing rubbed her back. "Are the other ponies alright?"

"Yeah. She tried to hurt them, but I managed to put up a shield in time." She laid down, snuggling closer to him and closing her eyes.

"It's good to hear almost everything worked out." He laid back down, wrapping the other half of the blanket over her. "You'll probably have a lot more opportunities to help in the future. Maybe you'll even find her again and be able to convince her."

"Yeah, maybe." Twilight gave one last half smile before drifting to sleep, shuffling a bit closer into his warmth.

"Goodnight, princess. Sleep well."

She mumbled back: "Goodnight, Dusking. Love you."

He let it be, snuggling closer to her. Love you too, Twi.

Author's Note

Fun fact: Duskwing's personality is a mixture of the original plan and that of his brother, Gravewing. Since I decided Gravewing was going to be deceased, I merged their personalities.

Chapter 24: Growing Pains

"Mmm, these are delicious, Pinkie Pie!" Applejack hummed in delight, biting down on another pancake.

"Thanks! Twilight spent all night helping me pick the flavor! I kept thinking we'd found the right one, but she insisted I make even more to try." She began stacking her plate with more pancakes. "And more. And more and more and more and more! It was like she never wanted to--"

"Leave?" Fluttershy filled in.

"Exactly!" She took a huge bite of her pile. "Eventually we ran out of time so we just went with every-berry-any-chip-surprise!" She leaned over to Rarity while Duskwing continued. It had been several days since the elements went on their map adventure, and in the time since, Duskwing had noticed some unusual behavioral patterns of his marefriend. While he initially chalked it up it just being how she was, the fact that her friends noted that it was different did give him some more context.

"She's been tiring herself out with literally anything. She was up pretty late last night too, don't know what she was doing but it certainly wasn't sleeping. Hay, she even asked me out to dinner tonight on a date! I don't know what's up, but she's not very keen on sharing her reasons."

The snoring from Twilight turned all heads to her. "Up all night, huh? Is that why she's so, uh... out of it?" Rainbow devilishly smiled over to Duskwing.

"Not in the fun way." He clarified. "Hasn't gone a night since she returned without going off with one of the Queen's Guard in the late evening and returning back past midnight."

"It's not like she's bucking Dawny either." Somnia added. "He's just as worried about her nightly walks when she goes from place to place, checking and rechecking how things are."

"Somepony is avoidin' somethin'. Soon as she wakes up, we're gonna find out what." Applejack declared as Pinkie coughed out a measuring spoon onto her remaining pancakes.

"I win!"

"Huh?! I'm pancake! I mean, awake..." Twilight gave an embarrassed smile to her friends from underneath the pancake stuck to her horn, Somnia holding back her snickering.

"Uh, Twilight? Is there somethin' you wanna tell us?" Applejack asked gently.

"You know how much we appreciate all you do for us, and we simply adore having you around... but we worry you might be *ahem* avoiding something else?" Rarity gave an understanding smile.

"Oh, has it been that obvious?" She looked down at the table. "I've been... the thing is... I know it's silly, but I... I've been avoiding... this place."

Rarity gasped. "Why in Equestria would you want to avoid such a gorgeous castle?"

"Yeah, this place has everything!" Pinkie got up and looked to the ceiling above. "Big tall ceilings that make you feel tiny!" Then to the floor. "Shiny new floors that are cold to the touch! Brr!" Then to the hallway. "And it even has loooong empty hallways!"

"The castle is amazing. But it just..." She sighed. "It doesn't feel like home."

Home. Somnia scrunched up her nose. It made sense on the face of it. If she was also being honest, she only felt at home around her friends and family, not any particular place. Excalion's Tower was impressive, monstrous in scale and beauty, but did she ever feel at home there? Did anypony who lived there actually see it as home, or merely the place where their family was?

"I could keep her busy all day." Duskwing suggested, snapping Somnia from her remembering session. "It will be good to have a second date after leaving off on such a sour note at the Equestria Games."

"Oh, no! Did I miss the pancakes?!" Spike walked into the dining room carrying a Rarity plush, heading over to the table to crawl up on-top to grab a few pancakes to eat. "I sleep like a baby under that cold, cavernous ceiling."

"Spike, I'm so glad you're here!" Rarity walked over to him.

"Really?"

"Yes! You can help us with making this castle feel like a home while Twilight's on her date. It is where you are living too, after-all." She nuzzled him.

"Hehe, yeah, sure!"

"I'll deal with the library and study!" Somnia declared, jumping down from her seat and trotting off. Duskwing got up and moved over to Twilight to whisper in her ear:

"Might want to have a shower before we head out. Kinda got a bit of syrup on your everywhere."

"Sooo... what did you have planned?" Twilight asked uncertainly as they walked through town, seemingly aimlessly.

"Your friend, Rarity, I think, suggested the spa. Didn't sound too bad to start with. Get us nice and relaxed..." He draped a wing over her back. "Get us in the mood for something more romantic."

"You're such a stallion." She snorted with a giggle.

"I was thinking we go to the spa, then we do something fun. How do you feel about swimming?"

"Sounds good to me." Twilight laid her head on his shoulder.

Far behind both of them, Dusty let out a deep sigh. It would be a long day protecting the two lovers, with nothing to do but watch for threats and sulk about never having a special somepony. Maybe one of the other Queen's Guard would have something to say, although she doubted it.

Between the parasitic playcolt changeling, the workaholic introverted unicorn, the foal-fiddling thestral, and traumatized asexual griffon, there really wasn't much hope any of them would have any good recommendations. It actually sounded ridiculous, but perhaps asking Somnia was the best option, despite her being a literal rape victim.

Or Rarity. Definitely Rarity. The filly would probably try hooking her up with somepony equally as insane as she is, the guardsmare shuddering at that possibility. Putting a hoof to her ear: "Love, can you watch the love birds? I have some personal business I would like deal with."

"I'm busy! This floor isn't going to break itself!" The griffoness' voice came over the earpiece.

"You know I can hear you, right?" Twilight added.

"Request granted. Love, replace Dusty on duty. After doing whatever you're doing, please return to me for a brief meeting." Somnia spoke up.

Dusty took a deep breath as she trailed the two. Eventually Love landed next to her and they switched out. Making her way back to the castle, Dusty thought about how she would approach the conversation. Shield pointed her in the right direction, and so she made haste to the dining hall where she spotted Rarity, alone, putting up some curtains.

"Dusty? Weren't you guarding Twilight?" The white unicorn asked, not taking their focus from the task at hoof.

"I managed to switch out with Love." Dusty nervously shuffled. "I, um, was looking to get some advice from you. Romantic advice."

"Oh?" Rarity finished putting up the curtain, turning to face her. "I didn't know you were interested in anypony."

"W-Well, I don't have anypony specific in mind, I was just thinking about it." She quickly added, stepping a bit closer. "It's not easy to watch Twilight and Duskwing together without your mind wandering."

"Ah, I see." Rarity smiled. "You're envious of them."

"W-What?! No! I'm not--"

"It's alright, darling." Rarity sat down at the dining table, motioning for Dusty to do the same. "It's natural to feel envy for such things. I myself have felt envious of other pony's relationships on occasion."

Dusty sat next to Rarity while she continued. "The first step would be to examine why you want to enter into a relationship with somepony. Is it only the envy? Are you jealous of somepony else? Do you feel incomplete without somepony special? There are a lot of questions you need to answer for yourself before even start thinking about finding somepony."

"I-I haven't really thought about that..." Dusty admitted, thinking exactly what her reasons were. She was about the same age as the Elements of Harmony, and none of them except for Rarity seemed to have had a special somepony. As for others her age, she knew that some would pursue relationships within the royal guard, very few going past their service.

"Let's back up. What do your feelings revolve around?" Rarity floated over her stack of curtains to examine for defects while Dusty thought.

"It's just that I've seen so many other ponies in relationships, and they're around my age. I feel like--"

"You're missing out." Rarity nodded. "I've felt the same at times. I doubt there's a single pony out there that hasn't felt like they've wasted time when they could have made more of it. Trust me, you aren't missing anything as long as you have your friends and family. Somepony will come along who you will fall head-over-hooves for, and it may be the most unexpected of ponies. Have patience. Somepony will come along who will see who you really are beneath that armor, and they will accept it with all their heart."

Dusty lightly smiled to her. "Thanks."

"You're welcome. Was there anything else I can help you with?"

"No, that was it. I'll think about what you said." Dusty waved back to Rarity as she trotted from the room, mind clearer than when she entered.

Next stop, Somnia and whatever talk she has planned.

"That was a great suggestion. I'm going to have to thank Rarity when we get back. I feel totally relaxed." Twilight calmly walked out of the spa with her coltfriend, both satisfied with their service.

"You still feeling up for swimming?" Duskwing laid his wing across her back.

"I'm actually a bit peckish. Do you think we could grab something to eat?"

"It's your date as well, y'know?" He booped her nose, getting a scrunchy face. "D'aww."

She giggled. "How about the Cafe Hay? Have you been there yet?"

"I haven't been to anywhere in town except Sugar Cube Corner."

"Oh, right." Twilight bit her lip as she led him in the direction of the cafe.

After a minute of walking, he spoke up again: "How's it being a single mother, anyway?"

"Probably about the same as being a single father." She nudged him. "Nightwind seems very well behaved."

"He doesn't want to get in trouble." Duskwing sighed. "I regret not getting him a proper education these past few years. It's been hard to raise him like a son, especially since I had to deal with the death of my brother and community service at the time."

"It sounds like you were making the best of a bad situation." Twilight replied. "You couldn't have done anything better."

"That's the thing, I could have. I could have moved away from that poor excuse of a town, start a new life somewhere else in Equestria."

"Maybe, but you would be leaving all your friends behind. I've been receiving letters about Hollow Shades, ponies telling me what it was like before and what they are hoping to do in the future. Whenever they mentioned you, it was always in the highest regard." Twilight laid her head on his shoulder. "Don't downplay the impact you had. They care about you, because you cared about them when there was no hope in their future."

"Hey, we're supposed to be having fun, not talking about all this heavy stuff." He leaned his head onto hers.

"I've been thinking about everything that's been happening lately. Both of our lives have taken quite drastic turns, and maybe talking about it will help us cope with the changes."

"Yeah, I'd be alright with that." Duskwing untangled himself from Twilight as they approached the cafe. "So do we just sit and they serve us? Or do we need to check in?"

"How's it--" Somnia stopped in her tracks as she gazed upon the utter chaos that was the throne room, whispering to herself: "Plan B, I guess."

"Somnia! H-How do you like it?" Rarity nervously smiled to the filly. One glance at Spike's shaking head told her everything.

"You have no idea what to do, do you?"

"No..." Fluttershy sighed.

"Why don't you cut back on the everything? Maybe take out a few stuff each?" She suggested, trotting over to Twilight's throne to sit down on. "I'll watch."

Everypony except Rarity started taking things out of the throne room while she and Spike watched from the thrones. It looked horrible, it smelled horrible, and worst of all, her mom wasn't going to like it.

"I tried telling them, but they didn't want to listen while they were singing." Spike muttered to his sister.

"I still can't believe they thought this was a good idea. I knew they were going somewhere else for this, but I didn't actually know how bad it was going to turn out in round one."

"Come on, Rarity. Everypony has taken somethin' out except you." Applejack commented from next to the white unicorn.

"Ooh, I know! I simply can't decide."

Rainbow flew up to a picture of the six posing atop clouds. "How about this?"

"No! Not that! Anything but that!" She shrieked.

She flew over to the hanging flower baskets. "How about these?"

Rarity pouted. "Oh, but those brighten up the whole room! They're my favorite accent!"

"Then let's lose the curtains! The room wouldn't need brightening if they weren't making it so dark!"

Somnia put a hoof to her ear and whispered. "Hey, mom, after swimming, I've setup reservations for you two at Chateau Dainty. It has things both of you like."

"Thanks, but why?" Her voice came over the earpiece.

"It had good ratings, and both Pinkie and Rarity recommended it. Have a good time, I'll see you later. Love you!"

"Oh, alright, thanks! Love you too!"

"Seems a little out of the way." Spike mumbled over to her.

"It's supposed to be. They won't cross paths with us while we work on plan B."

The other elements began taking other pony's things out of the room, de-cluttering the throne room at an accelerated pace as it became a vicious cycle of 'you take one of mine, I'll take one of yours', and a few minutes later the room looked exactly like it did at the start.

"There! Now nothing is cluttering the castle!" Rarity declared annoyed.

Rainbow sighed. "You're right. There is literally nothing cluttering this castle."

"What do we do now?" Fluttershy asked hopeful somepony would have a good idea.

"Now you think about what you are trying to do." Somnia spoke up. "What are you trying to do here?"

"Make this a home for- Oh..." Applejack cringed, the rest catching on to what she was talking about.

"Maybe we're all a little guilty of making ourselves feel at home instead of Twilight." Fluttershy admitted.

"Come on, y'all. We just need to think about Twilight. What was it she'd loved about livin' in the Golden Oaks Library?" AJ turned to the group.

Fluttershy pouted. "Oh, everything! The books, the smell of books, the joy she felt from organizing books..."

"Don't remind me." Spike deadpanned, getting a giggle from Somnia.

"Give them a minute, they'll come up with something non-book related." Somnia whispered to him.

"Remember the time it got blown up to smithereens?! Wait, no, that was the worst." Pinkie gave a deep sigh.

"We had a lot of good memories there, though. That's what made the Golden Oaks Library home." Applejack thought a bit more on that point, Somnia nodding in approval with the line of thought.

Each of the elements agreed with the sentiment right before Applejack gasped: "That's it!"

"Finally!" Somnia hopped down from her seat. "Let's go already!"

"I didn't even say what I meant!"

"We can't waste anymore time, you can tell everypony on the way there!" She trotted from the room followed by the rest of the group. They traveled into town towards the old husk of the Golden Oaks Library, Applejack giving the other elements the rundown of the plan. Waiting for them with several shovels and axes on the inside was Dusty, exactly as Somnia planned.

Applejack sighed at the sight of the burnt out husk. "Maybe my plan won't work after all."

"Of course it will, darling." Rarity comforted her. "I can see it! You and Fluttershy stay here. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, you come with me. We're going shopping! We'll meet back at the castle."

The three trotted off before Dusty came out of the ruins with the shovels and axes. "Got them like you asked, Som. Mind telling me what we're doing now?"

Somnia smiled to Applejack who started what she had been anticipating since she woke up this morning:

~It's not the things that ya gather 'round~

~It's not how much you own~

"I have to admit, this food is fantastic!" Twilight moaned with another bite of her grilled veggies. "I can see why Pinkie and Rarity recommended it."

"For something not pony-flavored, it's pretty good." Duskwing chuckled, getting a playful glare from his date.

"Oh, and what does pony taste like?"

"Depends. Not sure about stallions, but mares--"

"Shush you." Twilight held back her laugh, putting a hoof over his mouth. "There's foals around!"

"They can't hear us. Besides, it's not like we're celebrities."

"Maybe not you." Twilight took another bite of her meal. "I didn't realize how much swimming would get me hungry."

"Told ya it would be fun." He sat back in his seat and took a quick look around. Other ponies paid them no mind, either too busy with their own special somepony or family.

"Do you ever feel a bit self-conscious about the looks ponies give you?" Twilight asked, her smile faltering as she picked at the remains of her meal.

"Sometimes, but you can't let it get to you." He shrugged. "Nothing you can do about what you are. Just gotta live with it, and if other ponies don't like it, buck 'em."

"No, I mean--" She sighed, turning her gaze from her meal to his eyes. "I mean you and me, together."

"Have they been giving us looks?" He raised a brow, leaning forward a bit.

"Maybe if you'd pay attention, you'd have seen it today." Twilight cast a brief glance to another table, the occupant averting their gaze. "A lot of ponies don't like the idea of dating outside of the three tribes."

"Again, I say buck 'em. We're both ponies. It's our choice who we date, nopony else's."

Twilight winced. "Is that true for us? You're royalty too, simply by birth. You were ordered to move to Ponyville, you probably wouldn't have had the choice of dating me or not if Celestia decreed it to happen."

"Having doubts about us?" He gently stared into her eyes, placing both of his hooves over hers. "Remember what the kid said, you have a choice too. I'm fine with pursuing us if it means a better life for others, that's why I'm not arguing against being forced to do things against my will like moving to Ponyville or dating you." Duskwing stretched his legs, adopting a slightly less serious expression. "Not that I would complain about dating the fourth most desired single mare in Equestria."

"But are you- Wait, fourth?" Twilight furrowed her brow in confusion.

"Cosmare's stallion survey. You were behind Captain Spitfire, Princess Luna, and Countess Coloratura." He chuckled. "And one ahead of Princess Celestia."

"Why have I never heard about this?" She sat up, her mind pondering the implications. "Is that why I've been receiving those creepy love letters since becoming a princess?!"

"I mean, I voted Princess Luna--" He got a playful slap to the face with Twilight's napkin. "Hey! Don't blame me, we hadn't started dating!"

"I didn't know you read trashy magazines like that. What other secrets do you have?" She narrowed her eyes at him with lighthearted suspicion.

"I'm blacklisted from joining the royal guard. Criminal record, and all that business."

"Did you even try?"

"No, but I looked up the rules for somepony else who was interested in joining. Sent a letter to the guard asking about what you needed to qualify. I was one of the few batponies that was able to afford ordering newspapers, magazines, and books consistently from out of Hollow Shades." He sipped from his wine glass. "I'd collect them for the month and skim through them before leaving them in the bar for others to have a look. Only Batty Mag and Cosmare were consistently provided for the town, though."

"I've got to introduce you to my brother." She quickly caught herself as he smiled. "My FULL brother, Shining Armor. He'll probably try giving you some talk about not hurting me or he'll 'bring down the hammer'."

"I thought you never had a coltfriend before." He smirked.

"I didn't! I was doing a group project with a colt from school, and Shining scared him off!" She pouted.

Duskwing laughed. "I don't think it will be a problem. I'm actually older than him."

"If he is anything like me before I met you..." She shook her head. "AND you have a criminal record!"

"It'll be fine. He'll come around if he isn't already used to us bats from serving in the guard."

"Any family I should know about on your side?"

"My brother is dead, but you already knew that." He rubbed his chin. "Maybe my cousin? I don't know, there isn't really anypony I can think of off the top of my head. My mom would probably like to meet you if she could remember me for two minutes."

"Oh... Does she have--"

"Yeah. Mind is rotting away in some care home in the Griffish Isles."

Twilight blinked. "The Griffish Isles? I thought she was a thestral like you."

"Nah, she's..." He sighed, looking away. "She's from Zebrica. Immigrated to the Griffish Isles at a young age. Met my dad during the 966 Equestria Games. He wasn't competing, was just there for work. Bumped into each other at the concession stands and hit it off. After dad died, she tried her best to care for us, but then the memory problems got worse."

"Zebrica... She's a zebra I take it?" Duskwing cringed, hesitantly nodding. His marefriend noted how much he hated to admit it but let it go for now. "My mom and dad are both unicorns, and I never met my grandparents but I assume they were unicorns as well based on the genealogical research I did a while back." She gasped. "I completely forgot! I need to introduce you to my parents!"

"A bit premature, isn't it?" He chuckled, lightly smiling back to her as he got back into a better mood.

"Didn't you hear what Somnia had said? We're due to be married in a few years if we don't break this off, and everypony else knows about us!" Twilight had leaned forward to drive it home. "I don't know why my brother and sister didn't write to ask me about that, but my parents have been asking to meet you since the news broke!"

"Well, shit..." He muttered, smiling as he shook his head and turned back up to her. "Probably not a good idea to tell them we already had their granddaughter, right?"

"This is serious!" Twilight sat back down. "We need to get you to Canterlot sometime to meet them!"

"Isn't the Grand Galloping Gala coming up? Will they be there?" He suggested.

"I... I guess I could give them tickets to attend." It was a good idea. Attend the gala as a couple, meet the parents, probably have more than a few drinks... No, bringing the parents wouldn't be a good idea in that situation.

"Somnia was right." She snapped back to reality, casting her eyes over to Duskwing smirking at her. "You do need to get laid."

She slapped him on the face with her napkin again, slumping back in her chair with an embarrassed blush.

"PUSH!" Applejack called out one last time as they tipped the root cluster into the cart.

"I... I need a break..." Dusty leaned against the cart, giggling as Somnia just decided to collapse to the ground.

"We need to get this back to the castle. Thanks for the help everypony." Fluttershy thanked the critters she brought over and the additional two ponies. Dusty and Somnia waved off Fluttershy and Applejack, the filly speaking up once they were out of sight.

"We're not done yet." She groaned, pressing a hoof to her ear. "Shield, Scuttle, go wake up Dawn and come over to the Golden Oaks Library with him. And bring two carts."

A few minutes later, the three guards arrived with the requested carts. "What's this all about? It's almost time for my shift." Dawn questioned.

"We can get to the basement now." Dusty did a few last stretches. "We need to get the stuff out of there before somepony stumbles on it or it rains."

The next hour they combed across the ruined basement, Somnia pointing out exactly what they needed to grab. The furnace was partially crushed, meaning that only small pieces could be retrieved. The alchemy setup was surprisingly intact, along with the pre-made potions and ingredients. Unfortunately, all the enchanting equipment and electronics were crushed by the debris.

While the others were carrying the stuff over to the carts, Somnia passed up the experimental potions which thankfully hadn't broken. There was one last thing she needed to collect before leaving the ruins behind forever. Moving over to the locked drawer underneath the experiments drawer, she felt around the side to press a particular part to unlock it. Within, she took the box with her name on it and accepted Shield's levitation back to the surface.

"What's that for? Another experiment?" Scuttle asked curiously as Somnia lazily tossed the box into the cart.

"No, but it is helpful to my experiments." She started walking back with the others. Before bed, she had a few last things she wanted to do, but right now she needed to get the stuff unloaded into the lab.

"Damn..." Duskwing winced as the two stood before the remains of what was the Golden Oaks Library, a massive hole having been dug at the side to access the basement.

"I really miss this place. I had so many wonderful memories here with my friends and Spike." Twilight looked over the charred remains, leaning her head onto Duskwing's shoulder as he wrapped a wing around her.

"Some things come, and some things go, but those memories carry on. All you can do is accept that it happened and move forward. My mom told me a short poem when she started losing her mind, something to remember her by. *Ahem*

The past stays still
Yet we continue to mill

Carrying through the memory
Our serene and beautiful history

Standing firm against pains
It is the breaker of our chains

Even if the universe revolts against forever--"

"We will always be together." Twilight finished, turning up to him with wide eyes. "T-That last part it's--"

"An old phrase passed down in certain Zebrican cultures." He raised a brow. "How did you know it?"

"Somnia mentioned it when she--" A faint memory tickled the back of her mind. Barely noticeable, but from the look on Duskwing's face, he was experiencing it too. Then the feelings became all consuming as it came back to her, both of them holding onto one another, staring into each other's eyes, exactly like this moment. The pounding against the massive metal doors, the alicorn guards surrounding them with steely expressions, the fear she had for her foal's safety, for the survival of all existence. How much she truly loved him as they faced down death. Together.

"M-Mystic, there's so much I still want to tell you." She repeated the vague whispers, her eyes forming tears.

His face turned up in a gentle smile, exactly like the memory. Her heart fluttered lighter than at any other point as she stared at her husband, knowing that no matter what he said or what happened, she loved him as deeply as he loved her. She really was his, and he truly was hers. "You can tell me later. Because even if the universe revolts against forever..."

Somnia whispered the last half to the memory crystal, smiling to herself.

It isn't exactly a happy memory.

It's the oldest one they will be able to remember clearly. They deserve to relive that part at least, not the whole dying part.

"Are you done with your crystals, darling?" Rarity peeked over her shoulder to see the crystal she was cradling, the unicorn's face contorting at the scene of Twilight and Duskwing fearfully huddled together surrounded by stoic alicorn guards. "What is that? Twilight's mane is sparkling similar to Celestia, and Duskwing never saw the library."

"It's not from the library. It's from the Fall of Excalicorn. Their last moments together before the end." She turned up to Rarity, tears at the corners of her eyes. "They spent millennia together. They both loved each other more than anything in the world except maybe their foals. Even at the end, they held out hope, that love would be enough to preserve their memory of each other. T-They were right." She sniffled while wiping the tears from her eyes, giggling to herself.

"That's..." Rarity covered her mouth, releasing only to hug Somnia. "That's a wonderful memory. Twilight and Duskwing will love to see it."

They finished hanging the different memory crystals atop the root cluster, each of them satisfied with the work they had done. Somnia had to admit, it looked just as beautiful as in the dream. The group made their way to front hall chatting with one another about a job well-done. Just before they got there, the doors opened and two ponies stepped inside, embraced with each other.

"Welcome home!" The other elements called out, running up to the two.

Rather than say anything, Twilight brought her friends into a hug. "Love you all! You're the best friends I could have asked for!"

A few confused looks were passed between the elements. "Ya haven't even seen what we did yet." Applejack replied.

"I was wrong. Home isn't a collection of things. It's the memories we make, the friends and family we surround ourselves with. You can be at home anywhere, as long as you are with those you love." She teared up, bringing them back into the hug.

"I think you'll love what we did then." Rarity grabbed her hoof and led her in the direction of the throne room. Duskwing fell to the back of the group with Somnia.

"Hey..." He whispered down to her. "Thanks for setting me back up with your mom."

"I didn't need to. My intervention just made it sooner." She nuzzled into him. "Even if you two didn't meet at Rainbow Falls during the try-outs, you would still have been drawn to each other eventually. Especially after you became an alicorn."

"Uhh, what?"

The two entered into the throne room where the elements were each showing Twilight the different memories they stored.

"It's exactly what the castle needed. And I am ready to make new memories here." Twilight declared, her smile settling on Duskwing.

The pink party pony had seemingly summoned a cake out of nowhere onto her back. "Then let's start right now with a new memory cake! Seven layer what's-that-flavor mystery surprise! These might be chocolate chips, or they might be super-spicy black beans!"

"Let's go to the dining room and get some plates to celebrate!" Twilight left with the other elements, but Somnia tugged her father to stay for a minute.

"I want to show you something." She got up onto his back. "Fly up to the memory crystals."

He did as she instructed, her pointing to one in particular while she continued. "You and mom don't remember naming me, but I dreamed about it years ago. This is what happened."

Duskwing examined the crystal, hearing the faint voices of him and Twilight speaking a language he didn't understand. His alicorn self was laying next to Twilight in a massive regal bed, her mane sparkling as much as her eyes as she watched the sleeping foal between them. He kissed her before kissing their baby, saying something in return. Twilight's eyes briefly flicked to the memory crystal's point of view, smiling.

"Hivils desca Sombra Temperii." She turned back to him, bringing him into another deep kiss.

"Then there's this one." She grabbed the next. "It's from your first date."

He saw a... fair? No, it couldn't be. Leaning closer, he took a more detailed look. It wasn't Rainbow Falls, it was far more populous and lacked the 'falls' part. He saw Twilight coyly rubbing her hoof on his chest, playfully pouting. He dipped her down, whispering something, then kissing her exactly like he did during their newest 'first' date. She even had the same goofy smile. The next, and last crystal from Somnia he had to re-watch, his eyes watering up a bit at the scene.

"That's why we remembered it. It was the last memory we made." He mumbled.

"It's the last one in those days." Somnia corrected, hugging around his neck. "Now new ones are going to be made. Your old life is over. It's time to start anew."

He landed at the door and let her down before they walked over to the chaotic dining room where the others had already started on cake.

Duskwing sat next to Twilight, giving her a deep kiss as Somnia sat next to him. It was going to be a good night.

Twilight flew down from the crystals, landing next to Duskwing and bringing him into a hug. "Guess history repeats itself, doesn't it?" He chuckled.

"Y-Yeah." She wiped her eyes, biting her lip as she stared into his eyes. "I guess it does."

"So..." Somnia spoke up from Rarity's throne. "I wanted to tell you how you first met."

The two sat in the adjacent thrones, eagerly waiting for her to continue.

"Dad had just led the thestrals to revolt against the Harmonic Empire, being crowned as their 'king'. Rather than send in the military or go herself, my grandma sent you," she nodded to Twilight, "to talk to your brother and reason with them. He wanted for thestrals, changelings, and kirin to stop being treated as second-class citizens outside of the city of Excalicorn. For context, both of you were due to marry other alicorns outside of the royal family since the Grogar and the queen didn't believe your genetics were pure enough for what they had planned.

"While in the mountains, you two had a confrontation where mom essentially validated the views of other ponies about batponies."

"I can see where this is headed." Duskwing smiled to Twilight who returned it with a giggle of her own.

"Mom ranted and raved to the queen, but found no sympathy. Instead, the queen ordered mom to live among the 'breakaway' thestrals for a year, to see what life was like for them. She was hesitant at first, but carried out the orders anyway." Somnia bit her lip. "You two found time to talk in the makeshift palace on a balcony when mom was crying about her assignment."

"I wasn't very mature, was I?" Twilight smiled at her daughter.

"No, you were pretty foalish before you met dad." Somnia admitted. "The two of you hit it off, getting to know each other over the next few months. Before the year was up, dad invited the queen for a summit to reintegrate with the empire on one condition: Your hoof in marriage.

"Your first date was at a grand fair the queen put together for different kinds of ponies to actually meet thestrals, changelings, and kirin. She kinda had to drag a lot from their homes against their will, but it worked out. Two marriages happened and six foals were conceived in that day." Somnia giggled. "My sister, Stellar Shimmer, was born about twelve months later."

Both of them blushed, turning to each other. "Guess we got along a bit too quickly back in those days." Duskwing nervously chuckled.

"I thought alicorns had trouble conceiving." Twilight turned to her daughter for an explanation.

"Not always." Somnia rubbed the back of her neck. "It was a bit of an unusual situation. You had been dating for a year, and you couldn't exactly keep your hooves off each other after that night on the balcony. I mean, you really did love each other more than anypony else. The fair acted like a catalyst, pushing both of you over the edge to conceive the following night."

"B-But we haven't--"

Somnia stopped Twilight with her smug grin. "How many times have you kissed or felt each other up since meeting? I remember what you two got up to in Hollow Shades at that party. Weren't exactly subtle about it. Sure, you two hadn't bucked until that night, but you still were quite physical in other ways."

"What about you and your brother?" Twilight followed up. "Do you know how we... made you?"

"My brother, yeah. Not me though." In fact, nothing before experiencing the world around her after the experiment seemed to be related to her. Not surprising given her old life was erased, but she never really did try thinking back to what the inciting incident for her was, if there was one.

I have a good idea of how Somnia was conceived, but that isn't a good story. Actually, it's a horrible story, with a lot of crying and blood.

"You mean--" The blood rushed from Somnia's face as she realized what he was referring to, putting her hooves over her mouth. Twelve months prior to Grar's experiment... "Oh buck."

"That... probably should be told another time." Twilight agreed. Just from the sound of it and her daughter's reaction, it sounded on par with Grar's attempt to make Somnia a Grand Councilor. "So, your brother?"

"Huh?" Somnia shook her head. "Right. He was conceived a few hundred years before me. Dad had gotten back from the Scorcher Paradise on a 'diplomatic' mission." She air quoted. "He had been kept locked away for a few years while they tortured and--"

"Skip to the conceiving part." Duskwing facehoofed.

"Oh, mom missed you a lot. She wanted to have a second foal in case you died while off on missions. Nightflame Sparkle came a few years later after bucking nearly every day." She shrugged. "Not a very complicated story behind that one."

"If your own father getting tortured doesn't concern you, what could have been done to conceive you that is so bad?" Duskwing had to ask.

Don't. Please don't. I don't want to relive that mess again.

"C-Captain Entropis." Somnia closed her eyes, scowling at the memory. "He turned against the empire. He unleashed his spawn on Excalicorn after assassinating my uncle." She shook her head. "You were away on business, dad. He..." She didn't want to relive the dream, but it never went away. She had to accept that it happened, that it would never go away.

"H-How many ponies died?" Twilight asked concerned.

"Fifteen million..." Somnia said somberly. "Eight million killed just to drive them out of the city. Another seven million purged due to insanity, and that doesn't include the six million foals terminated in the womb. Another million would die the next few months while the remaining creatures were hunted down across the continent."

They both stared in stunned silence as Somnia continued, tears falling down her face. "Mom was raped by at least four breeders and Captain Entropis, but that's not how I was conceived. The entire military might of the empire descended on the city with dad and grandma, but Entropis escaped, eventually returning to serve again by the queen's orders. A few weeks later after mom recovered, she declared to never let something like that ever happen again. That no malevolent entities would try being reformed, that none would be allowed to live should they be found. That the type of suffering experienced by Excalicorn needed to end permanently. I probably was conceived not long after."

Miracle Spark made the declaration to the Ascended themself before the Crucible of Harmony, which I recorded in my notes. Later examination by Excalion, under the nose of my lesser half, revealed that it was likely that declaration why Somnia was conceived, and why she is ascendant where all other alicorns born or made weren't. It is probably also why my experiment worked. The Ascended payed attention to mortal affairs for once, that Somnia and my parts were as unwitting pieces in a greater plan.

I can't know for certain, as anything related to the old Somnia was erased from reality, but it is a pretty good assumption based on the timing, being about eleven months prior to my experiment.

"When I'm old enough, I'm going to corner that monster, and I'm going to erase them from reality for all the suffering they represent!" Somnia growled, shaking with unkempt rage.

"Shit..." Duskwing muttered. "Wasn't expecting that."

Twilight swallowed, her throat having dried up. Fifteen million plus twenty-six million... Over a third of the city's population wiped out, not counting the foals. And what they did to her... Did the rest of the city experience that? Her face contorted in horror at the realization. Six million foals...

The filly let out a ragged sigh, opening her eyes. "Anyway, that's how you two met and your foals were conceived. Nothing can change the past, but we can learn from it." She locked her eyes on her mom. "Watch your friends carefully. I can't guarantee they won't betray you at some point."

With that ominous warning, Somnia got down from the throne and walked out of the room to leave the two adults alone.

"Well, that was kinda a downer." Duskwing laid on Twilight's bed, smoothing out the sheets. It was nice to finally be in the 'master bedroom' for a change. Also nice to finally graduate from the 'rare' sleeping together to the 'permanently' sleeping together phase, and increases the chances of that sleeping together to take on its other meaning.

"I can't believe ponies could suffer on such a scale." Twilight shook her head, pacing back and forth.

"Come here." He motioned her over, Twilight reluctantly going over to sit on the bed only to be pushed into a laying position next to him. "What did she say? Nothing can change the past?"

"Right." She breathed out as she looked to him. "We can only go forward and learn from it."

They laid in silence for another few minutes before Duskwing spoke: "Did you really mean what you said about being a celestine?" He slyly smiled to her, getting a blush and punch to the gut. "Ow..."

"Don't you think it's a little soon for that?" She scooted a bit closer. "We've only had our second date so far."

"You didn't seem to complain about the kisses in Hollow Shades or at Rainbow Falls." A little closer.

"Kisses are a bit different to... that." She playfully scoffed.

"Different to what?" Closer.

With their mouths less than a hoof away, Twilight's breathing became more ragged as she stared into his eyes. "I-I've never done something like that before."

"Never played with yourself?" He rubbed a hoof on her flank, gradually rubbing closer to her belly.

She closed her eyes as he moved his hoof to between her hind-legs, grazing her teats before moving even further south. "Ohhhh Celestia... D-Don't stop."

"I can do more than that." He kissed her, rolling himself on top as he rubbed her marehood with his hoof. Twilight moved her hoof to his sheath, enticing his shaft from its hiding place. They kept the kisses going as they both built up the desire of the other.

She moaned into his mouth as she opened her legs wider, hoof running up and down his dick. Briefly, she pulled out of the kiss. "B-Be gentle, please."

"I wouldn't have it any other way." He brought her back into a kiss, her hoof guiding his member to her wet embrace. Slowly, he positioned himself over her, shaft right against her marehood, rubbing at the threshold.

Slowly, he straightened it out, parting the lips of her pussy. She closed her eyes and bit her lip as he slowly entered, moaning a bit at the sudden fullness within her.

She grabbed onto his neck with her hooves, opening her eyes to stare into his. "O-Okay. T-That's not as bad as I was expecting." She smiled, giggling a bit.

He moved his waist back and forth, thrusting deeper into her with each pass. She panted as she kept her eyes locked on his. "Y-You can go a bit faster. I-I think I'm getting used to it."

And so he did. Picking up the pace, she wrapped her hind-legs around his waist, keeping him from pulling out completely as she moaned and panted under his loving.

He moved his head to her neck, kissing along it to excite her further, and did she ever. Using her hind-legs, she thrust him deep into her, half-moaning half-giggling as he continued to push in and out at a slightly faster pace.

"I-I never thought..." She laughed. "I never thought it would be this good!"

"When's the last time you let the pressure go?" He whispered in her ear, moving back down her neck.

"I- Ah..." She squirmed a bit more under him. "W-When Somnia... gave me... an omni-heal..."

"Princess..." He moved up to her lips, giving a long kiss. "You keep squirming and--"

"You'll what?" She smirked, wrapping her hind-legs even tighter around him to prevent escape, all the while wiggling her hips. "Can't stand going more than a few minutes?"

"It's probably a bad idea." He kissed her again. "At l-least use a--"

She moved her hips back and forth to push him even further. "S-Somnia said that she needed to start early because alicorns have trouble conceiving." Her forehooves brought his body against hers, their faces nearly touching. "If we're going to be a thing, w-we need to start early too."

"T-Twilight?" He nervously chuckled. "D-Don't you think its a little soon for that?"

"Soon for..." She kept moving her hips, the feeling in her building. "G-Go faster. I-I'm almost there."

"I-If I go any faster, we may pass a point of no return." He slyly smiled to her, licking his lips.

"Just... a... little..." He picked up the pace with her persistence on the matter. Soon enough, he could feel his lower half getting stiffer as he continued to kiss all along her neck.

She squeaked out, opening her mouth to pant as she went over the edge, her inner walls clamping down on his member and her back arching. "Woah..." He closed his eyes as his mind started going blank.

His head flared inside of her, semen rushing directly into her womb as he half-chuckled half-grunted with the release. Her body tightened up beneath him shaking a bit to get every last droplet from his dick.

He slowly collected his breath for a minute until she started loosening her grip on him, pulling out of her slowly. Rolling them both over so that they faced each other, he gave one last kiss for her goofy expression.

"Y-You're really cute when you're all tired out."

"T-Thanks..." She giggled, settling against his chest, completely at ease in the loving embrace of her husband.

One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Eight. Nine. Ten. Eleven.

Twelve.

Somnia sipped from her cup as the chimes finished ringing on the clock in her lab. Putting her cup down, she picked up the Councilor's Orb and examined it.

"Grar, please close off your senses for a few hours, there's something I need to do."

Of course.

With her companion protected, Somnia activated the orb and looked into the temporal field. Her mind wandered to something specific, examining the moment in time from so long ago. With a smile, she deactivated it, placing it back into its box. There would be more experimenting tomorrow. Right now, she was content to sit back and sip from her cup.

After a few minutes, she leaned back positioning her hooves near her marehood, rubbing gently. After a false start, she tried relaxing again, this time taking a large swig from her cup.

Her mind focused on a particular scene, one she always went back to if things were desperate. She tried again, moving her hooves and...

No, not yet. She moved her hooves back to the cup, drinking most of the remaining liquid. She waited a few more minutes, trying to get her body nice and relaxed. Once more, her hooves approached their destination slowly. Her mind kept try to drag her to somewhere she didn't want to be, but she forced down those thoughts with more happy instances. All those memories with the old Nightwind, their times spent together, her night with Broken Dawn and their time in the meeting room, her being brutally--

Screaming at the top of her lungs, she grabbed the cup, tossing it and the remaining alcohol within across the room as she kicked over the chair she was using. Falling to her haunches, sobbing and pounding against the floor.

Her tears falling echoed around the room as she sat and stewed in her own misery.

Buck you, you bucking assholes! Buck you! Buck you! Buck you! Burn in Tartarus you disharmonious shit-stains! She collapsed to the floor, finally having had enough for the night.

Buck you...

Chapter 25: Secrets

Slowly reopening her eyes after a long and pleasant sleep, Twilight spotted a familiar purple mane in front of her. She sighed in contentment, resolving to snuggle a bit closer to her lover.

"Morning, princess." Duskwing shifted his head up, his nose pressed against hers. "I think we went a bit overboard last night."

"I-It's probably fine." Twilight nervously smiled. "Remember what I said? Alicorns have trouble conceiving."

"I'm not so sure about that." He kissed her, Twilight pulling him in. Saliva exchanged, tongues danced with one another until she finally pulled back to breath. "Tell me when you start putting on a few extra pounds, I'll get the spear for your brother."

Sighing, Twilight brought him back in for a brief kiss. "If I start gaining a few extra pounds, I'm the one going to be holding the spear."

"Sounds like a deal." He chuckled lightly, his smile slowly fading as he stared back into her eyes. "Didn't our previous first time--"

"Shit..."

Gently placing the unknown machine on the floor, Shield immediately turned to the next task. The Queen's Guard were receiving three days off, minus the few times each day they needed to bring down fresh food and water. In the center of the room was the comfiest chair they could find in Ponyville with a table next to it for food and drinks, a particular filly sitting within said comfy chair with her new favorite toy.

The entire lab was coming together slowly. The alchemy station was pretty complicated, well beyond what Shield had learned in school, and the mechanical chamber was starting to get everything in order. It was an impressive setup even before considering what else was planning to be made.

Next to the comfy chair, Dusty was organizing the foodstuffs and materials for the filly that was currently rotating the sphere she recovered from the old lab. All manner of foods were left for her to snack on, ranging from nutritious jarred fruits to scrumptious cupcakes, to plain-old energy bars.

"Okay, everything is organized as you wanted." Dusty smiled at Somnia to receive approval, keeping her eyes pointed away from the sphere. Once the filly examined the items to her satisfaction, she gave a simple nod letting Dusty leave to start her vacation. Quickly floating the last crate over to the tables and machines, Shield breathed a sigh of relief.

"Thanks for the help!" Somnia lazily waved back to him. "Make sure to bring more food and water for me. I don't want to die down here."

"No worries." He winked back to her before trotting out into the hallway, passing Twilight traveling in the opposite direction.

"Hey, Somnia. Were you seriously going to start without saying goodbye?" Twilight teased.

"I was going to get around to it. Eventually." She muttered, turning up from her task. "You're here now, aren't you?"

Twilight shook her head, keeping a decent distance from the chair. "I would come over to give you a hug but..." Somnia jumped down, leaving the orb behind as she quickly trotted over to hug her mother. For just a moment, she lingered, her soul-sight focused on something... different. Shaking the idea, she kissed her mom on the cheek before returning to the task at hoof. "What do you hope to learn by studying it?"

"Anything useful." Somnia sighed. "Probably going to be a lot of scary stuff or things that are completely useless."

"Are you sure you're going to be safe?"

"I'm a Grand Councilor, these things were made for us." She held the sphere up, Twilight turning away from looking at it. "And who knows, I might even be able to transmute these common materials into something useful." She declared tapping the pile of wood next to her.

"Don't overdo yourself. The gala is the day after your return." She waved back one last time before trotting out of the room with a: "Love you!"

"Love you too." Somnia sighed. Her mother's emotions were all over the place, but she couldn't worry about that right now. She waited until she heard the mechanism upstairs close the chamber off from the rest of the world before making a simple request: Grar, you get a vacation too.

Alrighty, see you in three days! And good luck! Her friend went silent.

With nopony to see what was about to happen, she concentrated on the orb cradled in her hooves. She bit her lip and turned it a bit, checking the markings along its surface. It seemed to be in good condition, well, it was in perfect condition but she didn't have anything to compare it to. Donning the saddlebags next to her in preparation for what she was about to do, she swallowed her anxiety about finally making use of the artifact for something practical. If Grar was right, all she needed to do was think of a command and it would happen, a terrifying prospect given that one latent thought could destroy all of Equestria.

Taking a few deep breaths, it activated.

Stepping out of the metal closet, she turned her head to glance down in both directions of the hallway she found herself in. It reminded her of the service hallways in Excalion's Tower but far more advanced. The lighting seemed to come from seemingly nowhere, and the doors de-materialized when opened and reappeared when closed. Walking down the hallway, she read the different signs signifying the closet's purposes. It was a little different from Equinish script, but some drift wasn't surprising considering ponies didn't have access to the same record systems the Cyclical Union did.

She trotted down the hallway searching for the stairs or some sign to give her a sense of direction. Heading through the door into another maintenance hall, Somnia had only the slightest clue of where she ended up. Without Grar, she was lost. He did provide a map of the facility, but that was too much of a jumbled mess to make any sense of without being a super genius like him.

Four hallways later, she managed to get out of the service hallways and into an observation hallway with massive windows on either side which provided vision into the former containment cells. By the look of the chambers, whatever had let the monsters out didn't do so gently. Massive bulkheads were torn open to let them out, only a few small markings or objects in the cell indicating what it was that was unleashed upon the world. She continued for three whole minutes straight down the hallway, eventually getting out into a branching system that could take her further into the other parts of the level or up to higher ones. Unfortunately, the elevator next to the stairs was out of order due to being on backup power for tens of thousands of years, forcing her to take the way which required effort.

Choosing the stairs, she continued for some time until reaching the upper level where she wanted to be.

"If Grar was right, these should be the biology labs and the next level should branch to the physics labs." She continued to aimlessly trot around the hallways for another hour until she found the next set of stairs. Going to the next level, she had two options: Manufacturing or experimentation. Heading toward manufacturing, Somnia got a nice view of the contained labs on the side where Grar had made all sorts of contraptions. Any single one would be beyond the understanding of Excalicorn, but she was looking for something she could understand. Even so, Somnia made a note to return at a later point to ferry some of them back to her own lab to examine.

Entering the massive manufacturing plant, she looked over the unfinished items scattered near the entrance area for things she could use. The entire facility hadn't aged a day. The only sense that one could gleam from it was that it had been shut down, time seeming to be irrelevant for the metals used. A series of massive conveyors, forges, printers, and bins stretched out far into the distance in all directions, connected on one end to the matter fabricator and the other to the sorting apparatus. Catwalks were suspended above the conveyors where they could cross, allowing a pony to move to the different production lines.

Going to a scraps bin, she took out a few of the broken mechanisms, peeling bits of metal off of them before looking around for something usable. Somnia continued down the massive chamber towards where the manufacturing would come to an end. Grabbing one of the pistols from the finished end, she trotted off in search of a zero-point-energy cell.

While it would be impractical to melt down and reforge the metals produced by the matter fabricator, the cells would still be incredibly useful. No nuclear reactor, no risk of nuclear meltdowns. Instead, essentially free energy that will last for millions of years. Or a few hundred, since Grar didn't have the necessary supplies to produce a higher grade of zero-point cells. Also far less powerful.

Even so, one small cell produced more electricity than Equestria produced a day, assuming you build up its energy for a few minutes. Making her way to the experimentation lab, she entered the code Grar had given her into the manual input panel to open it to a room filled with massive machines of unknown purpose.

Cells were practically strewn about everywhere, on workbenches, tables, and the floor in some of the messier areas. Picking one up, she fitted it into the pistol getting a whine as it charged up, and aimed at a sign on the wall warning about 'deep sea horrors'. One pull of the trigger disintegrated the sign before Somnia could blink, creating a blackened scorch mark on the wall where it was and the liquefied sign flowing down onto the floor below.

"No kickback, huh?" She checked the power settings and rolled her eyes. "Couldn't set them on low, could you?" Checking the gauge on the side, the power level was about half from passive drain over the millennia. She spent the next hour collecting a large pile of cells and weapons from around the level as well as anything else that may have been useful.

Going up another level, she trotted around the hallways to split off labs and assorted storage rooms. She managed to find the armory, but it was still under lockdown for whatever reason. I should ask Grar about that. Somnia mused as she went into one of the rooms with two dozen terminals. It was a bit silly that Grar had more than three terminals considering only he, Excalion, and Queen Gavelmede even knew how to access the facility, but Somnia guessed that it was to just fill the space.

She sat at one of the terminals and tapped the keyboard, the display flickering to life. She frowned at the interface and began aimlessly pressing keys she hoped would make her proceed to the records on file. The display changed a bit in certain somewhat helpful ways, but there still wasn't any text. It looked like a puzzle, but was highly complicated and with nothing to tell what the right configuration was. "What even is this?" Somnia muttered to herself, getting up and going to the neighboring terminal to start it up.

Groaning at the sight: "Of course!" She laughed, leaving the arcade and going back out into the halls to find a room with actual information terminals. She spent a few more minutes trotting down the hall checking rooms until she found what looked to be a planning room, sitting down at the terminal within that room and starting it up to a password screen.

"Uhh..." She typed in several things she thought it could be, all of which related to Grar or the Cyclical Union but none were accepted. Grogar, Excalion, Balderiaol, the names of her aunts, uncles, and parents, Gavelmede, Misty Sunbeam. Anything that came to mind that would make sense, although she doubted his password was anything that simple since he could remember a stream of numbers, symbols, and letters over fifty characters long easily enough. She went around the planning room to check out the various visualizer tablets finding that they also had been locked. "What could be his password?"

Going back to the terminal, she typed in 'Sombra' just for the fun of it, surprisingly getting it to unlock. She blinked a few times, thinking about why and how that would be his password. Checking the files in the main directory, one was marked as 'For you.' Opening it, her eyes read it through in its entirety. Smiling at the sweet note he had left, Grar, or Grogar back then, explained how he and Excalion named the first alicorn 'Sombra', meaning 'Dreamer', and spoke to her mom about them when she was pregnant. He had changed the password to their name so that if they ever came to the facility then they could read the files.

Rubbing her eyes, the filly looked into the other files he had in the directories. There were a lot of technical files which she opened to examine. The schematics and data far surpassed her understanding, involving materials and technical specifications that outstripped even the Harmonic Empire's technological know-how. Without anything specific she could understand, Somnia got up and left back into the hallway.

She ventured back down to the bio-labs, using scraps of metal to find her way back to the stairs once she collected what she wanted. The medical station contained a lot of useful stuff which she decided to come back for on her second trip, after getting some refrigerators for her lab. She returned with even more things to add to the pile, taking one last look at her haul before nodding in approval.

Taking another look at the orb she had put away in her saddlebags, she activated it and made a portal back to her lab, tossing the stuff she collected through before going back through herself. Without delay, she activated it a second to time send her to somewhere she did recognize.

Might as well see what's left.

Twilight moved the pieces back into place, the wall seal opening for her. It had been a whole day since Somnia had isolated herself downstairs and Twilight wanted to make sure she was alright. As she approached the double doors at the end of the hallway, she could hear the sounds of... welding? Slowly opening the door, she spotted four stands with crudely drafted frames in the shape of different members of the Queen's Guard.

"Somnia?" Twilight whispered, pushing the door open a bit more. To her right in the 'manufactory' was the filly with a welding mask, welding some plates together. The entire room had... stuff just laying around haphazardly. Stepping over some of the towels the filly somehow acquired, Twilight got close enough to see what she was working on. "Is that the new smelter?"

"Yes." Somnia curtly answered, intensely focused on the task. "Need it to melt that." She said while motioning with her head to a pile of metal plates next to her.

"Where did you get this stuff from?" Twilight moved off to the side toward a table with a small device that seemed to fit over a hoof.

"Grar's labs. His big one, and his Excalicorn one." She finished with the weld and sat up to face her mother. "I'll need to revise the metal invoices I gave you."

"Alright." She picked up the device and fitted it over her hoof. "What is this for?"

The filly sighed, walking over after taking off her mask. Twilight stepped back at the massive red gash down her face. "What happened? Are you alright?"

"Huh? Oh, you mean the line?" She rubbed her face, the streak flaking away. "I was having some trouble with the paint."

"That explains the towels." Twilight mumbled while Somnia grabbed a small flattened cylinder and opened the side of the device on her hoof. Once she closed it, a few lights lit up on it.

"This is a medical scanner. Scan me." Somnia stood still while Twilight pointed it at her.

"How do I scan you?"

"Press the display on the left or right. Whichever one has the pony." Twilight did as Somnia instructed and a few beams of light scattered over the filly before a massive amount of information began being provided on the display.

Twilight smiled in awe at the electronic device. "Wow. Did you make this?"

"No, I grabbed that from the bio-labs. Grar or Excalion did." She took it off Twilight's hoof, putting it on before scanning her mother and checking the results, of which nothing was notable except for her mother's alicorn sub-types. She shrugged and trotted back over to the plates she was welding. "It was in the med-bay. I grabbed a few omni-heals while I was there too."

"How many?" Twilight approached her as she arranged different plates.

"Two fridges?" She pointed across the room towards the alchemy station. "Lots of ponies throw away good fridges just because one small piece broke inside. A little soldering here, a replaced circuit there, maybe even a good kick, and they're back in working order."

"Two... fridges?!" Twilight finally took in the full depth of the stuff Somnia had collected. It wasn't just that. Large magical crystals, entire boxes of enchanted gemstones, smaller machines she couldn't even begin to understand. Box and crate after box and crate of things that she had brought back with her from all the places she had gone to. "You just took all of this?"

"Nopony else knew about it or wanted it." She shrugged dismissively. "I also found some of the plants Grar grew in seed form. Should help out with some of the rarer alchemy ingredients. Did you know Heart's Desire was created to be refined into a midas agent?"

"I-I... No, I didn't." She sat next to Somnia. "Are you going to still be here for the next two days?"

"Mom, I need to make the first tier of Queen's Guard armor. Without it, they're practically wearing encyclopedias on them. This is lighter, stronger, magically resistant, and best of all, disguisable with the right enchantments." She sighed. "Then comes the second tier for large-scale battles. I want to give them the best equipment possible if they are going to be protecting my family."

"Then what are these for?" Twilight walked over to some half-made metal wings.

"Oh, I'm going to be replacing their wings with something better. I was testing the design with that poorer quality metal before I went ahead with making the real thing."

Her mother nervously chuckled. "This is all way beyond me."

"You can read about it." Somnia pointed to the other side of the room where there were piles upon piles of metal bricks next to a makeshift computer and mirror. "I grabbed some hard-copy drives while in Excalicorn."

"Y-You..." Twilight happily trotted over to the computer. Plugging one of the drives into the computer, her hopes were crushed by the realization it was all in Equinish script.

"I would translate it for you, but it would take years." Somnia called out. "Each one of those data-bricks is a few thousand articles and books of information."

"Entire libraries I can't read!" Twilight cried out, slamming her head onto the keyboard. "Why do you do this to me?!"

"Hey, you wanted them." The filly flipped down her mask and began welding again, cutting off any further discussion.

Flashing into the arctic plains, Somnia pushed her way through the blizzard around her toward her next destination. Her entire body was wrapped tightly up in several layers of winter gear to the point of barely being able to move, but it would be worth it once she got to the outpost.

From the lights in the distance, the small concrete and metal outpost was still inhabited, the only question was by whom. She trudged through the snow until collapsing against the door and frantically hitting it with her hoof. She could hear talking on the other side a minute before they opened the door at her persistent knocking, quickly diving in out of the frigid cold to the surprise of the inhabitant who slammed the door shut. "Aw, fuck!"

"It's just a filly." A griffoness came over and helped the shivering Somnia up. "What are you doing out this far?"

"What's a pony doing this far away from Feathergriff?" The other griffon picked her up and took the goggles off of her to see her eyes.

"Basement." Somnia mumbled from underneath the layers.

"What about the basement?" He narrowed his eyes. "And what are you doing here?"

"Let's get her nice and comfy. She must have come a long way." The griffoness took the filly from her companion and began to unwrap her. The only thing Somnia kept on her was a small hoof-mounted mechanism. All three retired to the small living area while Somnia warmed up with some hot water they had boiled. It was fairly bare, although dragging furniture this far north must have been a laborious task on its own. There were only two couches, a wooden chair in the corner, and a small crude metal table between them. Once all three were seated, one of them spoke:

"What are you doing here, pony? This is griffon territory!" The meaner one demanded.

"I'm here for what my aunt left in the basement." Somnia simply stated.

"Likely story."

"Stop that." The kind one chastised, hitting their partner on the shoulder. "Maybe we should hear her out."

"It's a communications device capable of making use of the relays around Equus. With it, I can communicate with others that have the nodes. It's worth more than a throne of pure trisium nowadays."

Both griffons turned to each other, thinking about it until the meaner one spoke up with a deceptively gracious inflection. "Well, I'm glad you've come to collect it. We haven't been able to get that vault open."

"Well, I'm glad to come to collect it." Somnia cast her gaze from her cup to them. "I should probably tell you, I'm armed with an energy weapon and a particle shield. Double-cross me, and I'll have you turned into a bloody puddle."

"Don't worry, we're not planning anything of the sort." The kind one nodded to the filly with a gentle smile. Somnia knew that they were lying from their emotions, they were bandits after all. The three made their way to the icy basement where the massive vault door poked out of the roughly carved ice. Various drills and tool-heads lay around the room, discarded or broken. Moving up to the control panel, Somnia placed her hoof on it before the vault began opening, surprising her griffon hosts.

She stepped in and examined the small machine. It was in perfect condition with the power cell still operating after all the millennia since it was stored in the vault. It possessed the same zero-point-energy cells that Grar and Excalion made, enabling the replacement of the power source to be as easy as popping it open and replacing it with one of the hundreds of cells she managed to collect.

"W-What is that?" The nice one pointed at the device.

"It's a charging station for the comms." She glanced back to the two griffons patiently standing there. "Are you going to make your move, or are we going to keep playing this out?"

"W-What are you--"

"I know who you are. You're scavengers. From the looks of the stuff around the basement, you've been trying to crack the vault for a while without even a dent."

"And just who the fuck are you?" The mean one growled back as they dropped the act.

"I'm the Queen of Equus and the Grand Councilor of Harmony. Get out of my way while I leave, and you'll both live to see another day. I don't want to kill you if I don't have to. You've accepted me into your home, given me something to drink, and let me access this vault without fuss. You haven't done anything in my presence that would give me a reason to hurt you, so let's keep it that way."

"It's ours, pony! It's our home, so it's ours to take!" The mean one stepped forward.

"M-Maybe we shouldn't..." The 'nice' one shirked back at the filly's unwavering vision.

"She's just a fledgling, bluffing about being armed to see if we were pushovers." He took another step forward.

"One more, and that's it. Last chance." Somnia warned, narrowing her eyes.

The griffon barely got off the ground by the time Somnia raised her hoof and fired an energy blast straight into the griffon, blowing them into smoking pieces. Blood splattered around the room, including over both of the other living creatures.

"WHAT THE FUCK?!" The other screamed, scooting back on their haunches into a corner while Somnia grabbed the machine on her back and walked back upstairs with it, leaving the hyperventilating griffoness to freak out about the blood and her dead partner.

Somnia activated the portal at the door and threw her winter clothes through before carrying the machine through with her to the other side. Closing it behind her, she set down the machine on the ground and finally took time to breathe.

"Somnia!" Dusty trotted over. "Are you alright? Why are you covered in blood?!"

"I-I had to..." She kept her eyes closed and shook her head. "They would have hurt me. I had to kill them."

"Kill who? Where did you go?!"

The filly took another minute to breathe before standing back up on shaky hooves, tossing the sphere to the linen basket she set up to hold it, surrounded by signs saying 'DANGER: STAY AWAY' and 'WARNING: DANGEROUS ARTIFACT'. "I needed to get this." She picked up the machine and brought it over to an empty table.

"What even is it?" Dusty examined one of the small thin objects on the side of the device.

"It's a secure communications relay. Each of these patches can be given to a pony to provide a magical link between them. It was a top-secret project my aunt had developed for the royal family but was ultimately sealed away because of the risk it posed. With this, you can determine where all the other patches are in real-time as long as they are in the range of a relay."

"That's amazing! So no more earpieces?" She grabbed one of the patches to examine. It shifted color in her hoof to match the color of her fur.

"Nope, and they'll be able to be used anywhere in Equestria since the relay is still active." She walked over to the table Dusty was arranging, checking what had been brought to eat. "Please call the other guards and my mom to come down here while I wash up."

The filly left while Dusty alerted all of them to a high-priority meeting in the lab. The first to trickle in were Dawn and Shield, both already inside the castle. A few minutes later, Twilight trotted in.

"Did something happen? Where's Somnia?" She stopped in front of the relay, looking down at it and pointing: "Is that blood?!"

"She'll be with us in a little bit. Kinda got a bit all over her." Dusty answered while they waited on the others. Scuttle and Love came down with a cleaned Somnia after about fifteen minutes.

"Alright, each of you take a patch and apply it to somewhere you won't mind ripping it off, and not on the legs." Somnia grabbed hers and put it on her neck, partially covered by her mane. The patch matched her fur creating a seamless illusion. "You can swim with them, shampoo over them, and take punches. They are pretty durable to anything except if you stab them, so I would recommend the neck."

Each of them grabbed a patch and put it on, most of them choosing the neck except for Dawn who chose under his wing. Once ready, Somnia started giving her thoughts to the patch.

Think about what you want to direct to the patch, then it will be transmitted to it. It doesn't accept things you don't explicitly think to it, so no embarrassing moments when you don't want it activating. She communicated to each of them. The charging station can be used to charge it once the patch starts running low on power. It should last a few days at least if you are very active, and it will start to itch under the patch to warn you. She opened a panel on the side of the relay and began tapping away at the screen that folded out.

Testing, testing, Dusty, come in. Shield thought.

Sergeant Dusty reporting.

Dawn here. Seems to be working fine.

This is a bit like the spells we developed in the hives.

Love and more, confirming it works.

Wow, this is amazing! The applications for this technology could be huge!

Somnia sighed, backing away from the charger. Which is why we can't let this get out. Near instantaneous communication across Equestria is massive, and Celestia or Luna might want access to this technology. She revealed the small display for everypony. I've set up the map to be centered on Equestria. If one of us is foalnapped or goes missing, or whatever, this will tell you exactly where they are or where they last were. Use your hooves to zoom in or out.

Why don't you want Celestia or Luna to know? Twilight asked curiously.

I can't trust them fully. Somnia simply replied. Alright, that was everything. Mom, can you take the charger upstairs to leave in the immediate entrance-way to my lab? The filly took all the other patches from the machine to make sure nopony else could grab one.

Yeah, I can do that. Twilight levitated the machine with her while the guards followed along to return to their vacation, which for Dawn meant sleeping some more.

Once they were gone, Somnia sighed and sat down on the comfy chair to snack away on the things Dusty had brought her.

"Tomorrow's going to be a long day..."

Finishing the last touches on the leg sleeves, Somnia sat back and beheld her work. Watches, energy pistols, and light particle shields. The sleeves were quite difficult to notice unless you are up close or looking for them, and could be integrated within the royal guard hoofguards for added concealment. A small modification needed to be done for Scuttle and Love, but it wasn't too difficult to compensate.

Getting down from her chair, she made her way back through the hallway and up the stairs, quickly closing up the room before proceeding straight to her bed. Three days of adventure and creation took a lot of focus to stay on task, but the groundwork was set up to make sure there isn't a repeat of the Equestria Games or her foalnapping.

The night passed fairly quickly, a bit too quickly. And too quietly, not counting the nightmares. Raising her head the next morning, she realized why. You awake, Grar?

With no response, she got up from bed and made her way back to the puzzle room. Heading back down into the lab, she sat on the chair and began prodding with her mind at Grar's soul to signal him to wake up.

It's good to be back.

It's good to have you back. She slumped down on her thinking chair, rubbing her eyes. Thanks for telling me about all that stuff. It's going to be incredibly useful.

Consider it an apology for not being there last time you needed me. Besides, nopony else was going to use it.

You helped me with something even bigger, something I'm very grateful for, and a lot of other ponies are too. Actions have consequences, and my action to have you repeal those two layers had the consequence of you not being able to help me when I was foalnapped.

I'll take what I can get. There isn't much I can do to serve you, especially now that your powers are escalating. Eventually, you won't even need me.

Maybe not, but that doesn't mean I don't like having you around. You're my best friend, or like a second father, I don't know which.

Why not both?

Both. Both sound good. She laid back and closed her eyes, content to simply wait for sleep to come. I love you, Grar. Even if I don't always show it.

I live to serve.

You're just saying that because I'm a part of your big plans for the universe.

Pretty much. If there was ever a way to chuckle in his current form, that was it. Somnia snuggled into the leg-rest, tiredly smiling to herself. In some ways, Grar was a second father to her. He taught her to speak, walk, produce lethal armaments... Her mind wandered back to an idea she had been floating around since she came to terms with what happened to him.

Could she make him a new body? When she's powerful enough, can she give him a second chance at life? A chance where he is free to do what he wishes, where his ambitions are fulfilled, where his life is his to choose the path of?

That would be nice... She hummed, dozing into the realm of sleep.

Somnia? Are you awake?

The voice tickled her ears, despite its direct implantation into that segment of her mind. Speak or forever hold your peace.

Where are you? I thought you would be awake for breakfast. Twilight's voice came again.

Basement. Somnia sighed. It wouldn't be long before her mother came looking for her. She kept replaying what happened in the cabin over and over while she waited. She gave them all the relevant information about the situation. They made their choice, and she made hers. Maybe if she had her magic they could have been knocked out, or held in place. But she needed the relay sooner than then. The foalnapping needed to never happen again.

Twilight came trotting in smiling at her. "Have you been down here all night?"

"I went to bed upstairs, but came back down because the chair was comfier." She rubbed the leg-rest.

"Well, you must be hungry after all the work you've been doing." Twilight came over and lifted Somnia to take her place on the chair, setting the filly down in her lap. "Is something wrong?"

"Remember when you told me about the griffon you killed?" She leaned back into her mother's chest, nuzzling against it. "I've killed creatures too. A pony, and a griffon. I saved the old Nightwind and Fae from an assassin, and I killed a griffon to get that communication device."

"Oh, Somnia..." Twilight rubbed her head while she continued.

"It's not the death that bothers me. It's the permanence of it. Ponies die all the time from things natural and unnatural, but when it's made permanent, it feels different. Most things ponies do are permanent to them, but to me, nearly everything is temporary given enough time or effort. To see a life end, knowing you can't ever see them make amends for those they've wronged, or improve their life further. I-I've been thinking a bit. Is it so bad I want to make everything last forever? To know that all things are eternal, that every soul has an opportunity to repent for their disharmonious actions?"

"That's a... unique perspective. I don't know what things will be like for you, but for normal ponies like me, that permanence is what makes us who we are. If you could change anything about who you are, where you came from, then who would you be? Would you simply be the sum of those experiences? Or are you something greater?" Twilight gently smiled at her daughter.

"Have you been reading 'The Cyclical Truth'?" The filly asked a bit suspicious. "That's almost exactly like one of the sections."

"Why are you asking me if you already know what I'm going to answer?" Twilight raised a coy brow.

"I don't know if it's true, that's the problem." She sighed against the purple fur. "Are we only the sum of our experiences? Am I something bigger than just that? Is anypony bigger than just that?"

"Have you spoken to Grar about this?" Twilight petted her mane with long gentle strokes. "Doesn't he usually have some useful insight?"

"He'll tell me what was from 'The Cyclical Truth'. He wrote the book, after all." She groaned. "And even then, he just got it from beyond the veil!"

"Maybe he'll surprise you."

Nope, she's pretty much right.

"Some help you were." Twilight mumbled, going back to the topic at hoof. "Does it feel like you need permanence in your life?"

"Maybe I do..."

"Are you worried ponies will judge you because you can reverse consequences they see as permanent?"

"Yeah..."

"You can choose to let certain things be permanent. Maybe there's nothing you can do right now to change things, but eventually, you will be able to. That's something you'll have to come to terms with, that you can act but choose not to." Twilight cradled the filly in her forelegs, getting a giggle out of her. "A lot of tyrants try to do what they believe is best for those they lead. Maybe their intentions are pure to the very end, but their methods turn cruel to fulfill that goal. Maybe you need to learn to let go. Let certain things be permanent, even if they aren't."

A form of consequence you can choose to abide by. A measure to accept life how it turned out, and not by what you can do about it. What point is there to a feeling if it can be reversed so that you never felt it? What is the point of loss if it is temporary?

Choices are the most important things in life. Ultimately what makes it different from the non-living. You have a choice, exactly as you always tell everypony else. Do you want to know life as it is for mortals? Do you want to know what it is to be temporary? If so, I know you will find a way to hold onto that part of yourself.

Somnia thought about what they said while Twilight picked her up in her magic to bring her back upstairs. Maybe that's what she needs. Something stable to stand on, a foundation on which everything is built. Maybe the Cyclical Truth was more truthful than she previously believed...

Maybe... She smiled to herself as sleep drifted back into her mind.

Chapter 26: Gala-ctic

"Now you three step out." Celestia stepped aside to let her faithful student and family walk into position at the front of the stairs leading down into the entrance hall. While the announcement was planned to be held on the stage in the main hall, workers were still setting up for the gala. "Then it's time for your speech."

"Ahem, citizens of Equestria..." Twilight smiled up to Celestia. "Sounds simple enough."

"Once your speech is finished, you proceed down the stairs to the left for interviews with anypony who wants to ask questions. Please try to answer a few of the more pressing ones before dispersing to have your fun."

"I'll try to answer honestly, but no guarantees." Duskwing chuckled, getting cut-off by a yawn. "Where's the snack table being set up?"

"Twilight, would you mind showing him to the main hall for this year's gala?"

"No problem." She trotted off with her fiance giving Celestia and Somnia an opportunity to talk alone.

"What is on your hoof?" Celestia leaned down to the filly, examining the small metal device.

"I'm not going anywhere without some form of protection, even if I have my Queen's Guard around." She defiantly proclaimed.

"You're going to be safe here, there's been no threats since the Equestria Games, and there are going to be nearly half the castle guard in addition to your own." Celestia shook her head, straightening back up. "At least it blends in well enough with your gala dress."

"I'm not taking chances." She reiterated, casting her vision around the spacious entrance hall of the castle. The floor had a checkerboard pattern interrupted by the red carpet that stretched from the entrance to fork to either side and up the stairs they currently stood on, a golden star present at the crossing. "Who's coming tonight?"

"Nobles, prominent ponies who ordered ahead of time, a few former students of mine, the Wonderbolts. Pretty much everypony who's available and of note near to Canterlot." The regal sister sighed. "I've been wondering. What happened between you and Discord?"

"He hurt ponies close to me. I'm going to tell you this now so it doesn't come as a surprise," she turned up to Celestia, a serious frown on her face, "I'm going to kill him when I'm older."

"Discord has assisted us dealing with threats in the past, I'm certain that won't be necessary. My mother believed that even a soul as irredeemable as him could be redeemed with enough effort." Celestia glared back.

"You don't understand what is necessary. I took an oath to serve Life and Reality, and he is a threat to both. There's no room for monsters like him. Maybe Fae subscribed to our grandma's perspective, but I don't."

"Just try not to make a scene tonight." Celestia stood tall, casting her own view of the entrance hall. "I don't want to have to explain why Equestria's youngest princess holds a grudge with a reformed villain. Try to act cordially, if only for Equestria's sake."

"I make no promises."

"Oh, your first Grand Galloping Gala! The excitement, the anticipation!" Rarity gave a contented sigh as she finished up with Sweetie Belle's mane. "I wouldn't miss this for all the jewels in Equestria!"

"We're going to the Gala! We're going to the Gala! We're going to the Gala!" Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle hopped up and down while they chanted next to Rarity, the fashionista finishing her work on Scootaloo after she managed to mess up her mane, getting frustrated by their movement that only worsened it.

"Come on, Apple Bloom. I wanna see it!" Nightwind moaned against the wall next to the changing area. He had already been dressed in his suit, mane combed and gelled into something formal, ready for the train ride to Canterlot. Carousel Boutique was a bit too fancy for his liking, and his own suit matched his gripes about events like the Grand Galloping Gala: Too formal. Still, he was going to support his marefriend, and she IS excited for it.

"Alright, y'all, keep it down." Applejack turned her attention from the card game against Rainbow Dash across the room from the viewing stage. "It ain't like it's a life-changin' experience of nothiiiiing..." Her words trailed off as Apple Bloom pushed open the curtains, revealing herself in her gala dress of varying shades of orange, sporting an orange flower in her mane and on her front.

"Whadda think?" The yellow and red earth pony asked her date as she stood in front of the changing room curtains.

"You look nice." Nightwind trotted over to her, circling around her as he checked her out. "Really nice!"

"Thanks, ya ol' charmer." She playfully booped him on the pass back before heading over to her friends atop the viewing stage.

"This is gonna be the best night ever!" The three crusaders declared, shortly before noticing one of the mirrors changing to a large yellow eye. Each hopped down screaming, huddling at their respective sister.

The mirror shrunk to reveal a mismatched creature of different parts. They slithered through the air over to Applejack and Apple Bloom, but not before Nightwind jumped in front. "D-Don't get any c-closer!"

"Move aside, Prince Moonbell." He easily pushed the colt to the side, moving up to Applejack. "I don't suppose that, uh, these adorable little cutie pies have their own tickets to the Gross Gruesome Gala, do they?" He smiled to Applejack while Apple Bloom blew her tongue out at him.

"Ahem!" Rarity got his attention. "To answer your rather rude question, they're going as our dates, our plus-ones."

"We're plus-ones!" Sweetie gathered up with the rest of the crusaders who kept the chanting going. "We're plus ones! We're plus ones!"

"Yes, yes, yes, I believe I got that." The creature annoyedly responded, snapping their fingers and disappearing with a flash.

"Yeah!" Rainbow Dash declared absently slamming down her cards.

From against the wall next to the changing room, Nightwind blinked a few times, his heart racing as fast as his mind. "W-Who was t-that?"

"It's just Discord, prob'ly lookin' to get an invite." Applejack began collecting the cards that had been scattered with Rainbow Dash's outburst.

"He's not dangerous, nothing you need to worry about." Rainbow ruffled up Nightwind's mane a bit. Her face scrunched a bit at the nearly hyperventilating colt. "You alright?"

Nightwind closed his eyes and tried taking long, deep breaths. That creature... Why does his chest feel like its going to implode? Why is his mind falling back into fight-or-flight mode? Why does thinking about it bring up such fear, such terrible sadness and hatred? Deep within the pit of his stomach, knots threatened to make him throw up on himself then and there.

His anxiety settled a bit as a pony embraced him. "It's okay, Nightwind. It's alright, he ain't here anymore." Apple Bloom ran her hoof through his styled mane, doing her best to calm him down. Biting her lip, she kept him close as he slowly readjusted.

He opened back up his teary eyes and halfheartedly smiled to her, his heart still beating hard but far more manageable. "T-Thanks."

"Apple Bloom! His mane was already done up!" Rarity trotted over with a comb to restyle it, Nightwind's heart pounding a bit harder with the incoming mare.

"Before we open the gates to the grounds, I would like to introduce you to the ponies in charge of security." Celestia led them down a hallway, opening into a room filled with a bunch of activity. Over a dozen ponies were either sitting around or talking, two of which in the signature captains armor. "Captain Pansy, Captain Angel Scythe!"

The two captains stepped forward, the latter casting an amused grin to the Queen's Guard following along as Celestia continued. "Captain Pansy will be handling security matters around the gala grounds for tonight. Most of the royal guards you see tonight will be under her command."

"Nice to meet you, captain." Duskwing stepped forward, shaking her hoof. "I'm Duskwing."

"So we've heard." Angel Scythe snickered. "Didn't know you were a daddy."

"This is Captain Angel Scythe. She is leading the Lunar Guard to protect the remainder of the castle while the gala takes place. You probably won't be seeing much of them." Celestia finished, flicking her eyes between the smug captain and the unamused lieutenant that stood just behind the royal party. "I trust there won't be any issues with the former captain?"

"No objections from me." Angel Scythe shrugged. "He did it to himself."

"Thanks for the reassurance." Dawn rolled his eyes playfully.

"Then we are all set to start the gala. Captains, you have your orders." She nodded to them, getting salutes in return before turning and leading the group back to the entrance hall. Duskwing and Somnia broke off to the main hall for refreshments while Celestia and Twilight greeted the incoming guests.

"Got any plans for the night?" Duskwing asked while they walked.

"A little. I would like to make some alone time for Nightwind and Apple Bloom. Maybe even some for myself." She giggled, getting playful eye roll from her father. "But other than that, I want to talk to Discord."

"Is that another friend of yours?"

"Not exactly..." She rubbed the back of her neck. Until she could destroy him completely, a direct confrontation wouldn't be feasible. Maybe Celestia was right. Maybe it would be best to get on his good side until she could make her move. Something strategic, like with Pinkie Pie.

Atop the concessions table was Excalion with a cute pink bow-tie around her neck, pecking at the different foods they had on offer. The entire gala hall had been overhauled to include a stage for the announcement after the guests arrived and a dance floor for afterwards. Streamers were strung up around the room, running from column to column circling the room or over the main floor. It was going to be far more lively than the previous years if Twilight was to be believed.

Both of them stacked plates full of snacks to take over to their table before returning for drinks. Somnia filled an extra plate on the third trip for Excalion as two familiar noble ponies wandered in from the entrance hall. She took her seat and carefully watched them move to the concessions table to get a few drinks before making their way over to her.

"Princess Somnia, we weren't expecting you to be attending the gala this evening." The stallion frowned at her.

"Why wouldn't I be here?" Somnia popped another veggie chip into her mouth. "I had a lot of fun getting drunk at the last party I went to."

"My goodness." The mare covered her mouth, turning to her companion concerned.

"Hey, no getting drunk this time. I don't want to have to soak you down in cold water later, and your mom certainly won't appreciate it." Duskwing grinned to his daughter.

"It's not my fault for being horny. I wasn't on anti-heat stuff back then!" She countered, satisfied with the two nobles slinking away from the table at her proclamation. "Nice, they're gone."

"Y'know, you should probably be schmoozing up to ponies like that." Duskwing sat back. "They're kinda a big deal around Canterlot."

"They may be noble in title, but that means nothing to me." She rolled her eyes. "I'm going to treat them like anypony else, and if they can't deal with it, then that's on them."

"Your mother would disagree with that sentiment."

"She's not here, now is she?" Somnia slyly tilted her head. "These aristocrats are a temporary annoyance. Once I'm queen, they'll lose what unfair privileges they have been granted. Why should I treat them any different than other ponies when their power is dependent on the idea that they deserve power?"

"Hmm..." Duskwing moved his chair a bit closer to hers to wrap a wing around her. "Well, I don't know about that, but I'm sure that you'll have to deal with ponies you dislike. There will be a lot of ponies that you will talk to that are rude, arrogant, or just unreasonable. It's a good idea to get on their good side to get things done, even if you really don't want to."

Somnia hummed into her dad's fur, thinking about it for a few seconds real-time. "And when I'm queen?"

"When you're queen, things will be different. If ponies respect you, they'll be more willing to put up with your more eccentric qualities." He booped her on the nose. "But you're not queen yet. When you are, I'll be sure to stay on your good side."

"Yet..." She repeated, sighing into his fur. She wasn't super thrilled about ruling Equestria. There was so much to do to make the nation into something more similar to Excalicorn. Thousands of years of false propaganda, institutions of questionable loyalty, a dysfunctional military, and her own family concerns.

It was going to take much longer than she felt comfortable with before change could come to her new home. She needed to plan ahead.

Somnia, where are you? The speech is about to begin! Twilight's voice came over the neural link.

On my way. The filly trotted down the hallway back toward the gala hall. She had been tracking down both of the captains on duty, only managing to find Captain Angel Scythe. The discussion about loyalties and the state of the royal guard was the seed toward bringing her on-side.

Things weren't as clear cut as the princesses would like to present. The Lunar Guard itself was already showing strain between the Lunar Loyalists and the Reformists, with the northern thestal members taking a near universal Reformist perspective. The main bulk of the Royal Guard was already wary of the changes being done by the princesses, meaning a few appropriate pushes could send it tumbling into a majority position. That left the E.U.P. high command to determine the position of.

While the captain didn't admit it outright, her emotions told a completely different story. She was worried. Not just about the state of the guard, but of the safety of Equestria at large. It made sense from Somnia's knowledge of the current happenings. The newspapers were still running with the 'thestrals bad' narrative, although they dropped the claims about tensions between the princesses after the press conference from a while back, and Equestria's neighbors were still on edge after the magical bursts.

Trotting back into the gala hall, she kept to the edge as she made her way over to the back of the stage. One last thought crossed her mind. While the tensions within the guard weren't enough to break it, they could be exacerbated over time until the difference in loyalties are severe enough to only have one solution. She would have to play the next couple of years carefully to prevent creating too much strain between herself and Celestia. A civil war wouldn't turn out well for the citizens of Equestria.

I wish I could tell what you are thinking about. Are you still coming up with a plan for later tonight? Grar spoke up in her mind.

Nah, just thinking about the future.

"Somnia! Where were you? We've been waiting the past few minutes on you!" Twilight glared at her annoyed as she trotted up the steps into the backstage area.

"Sorry, I was talking to somepony." She lightly smiled to her mother, positioning herself between her parents.

Celestia sighed and shook her head. "I probably don't want to know." Before walking through the curtains out onto the stage to make her speech to the gala attendees. With a few taps on the microphone, the room quieted down and turned their attention over to the finely dressed princess.

"Good evening, everypony, and welcome to this year's Grand Galloping Gala!" A few cheers came from the crowd for the princess. "I see most of you are regulars to the gala but I recognize a few new faces in the crowd tonight."

"Yeah!" The crusaders hollered out from across the room, Somnia giggling quietly backstage.

"This year is a little different than previous years. I hope you will enjoy the change of pace for the gala from now on as much as I will." A few ponies from the crowd voiced approval, including a few of the nobles. "Without further delay, I would like to introduce for the very first time: Princess Twilight Sparkle and her fiance, Duskwing of Hollow Shades!"

The three stepped out from the curtain to the shocked gasps and cheers from crowd. The mixed reaction shifted a bit when the element bearers began cheering loudly from their respective locations among the crowd.

"Hello, everypony!" Twilight began after the crowd quieted down a bit. "I'm sure some of you have heard the rumors about me having a coltfriend as far back as the Rainbow Falls Traders Exchange, then later hearing about being due to be married from my daughter." She ruffled up Somnia's perpetually messy mane. "While the announcement for the marriage was a bit premature, the truth is that it is only appropriate. Duskwing is Somnia's father and my former husband from the time of Excalicorn. We may not remember much of each other, but what little we do remember is enough for the two of us to firmly believe this is the best option for our daughter's sake, and for the integration of Equestria's thestrals as an official fourth tribe!"

There were some murmurs among the nobles within the crowd, but the commoners at largely seemed to cheer their support. "We don't have a date planned for the wedding, but I'm certain it will come before our daughter's coronation as Queen of Equestria." Then came the shocked gasps. Celestia smiled on in approval from the side, nodding for Twilight to continue.

"A few of the nobles in the crowd I recognize as belonging to the former Noble's Council. You've already been made aware of the reform the princesses unanimously signed following the attack at the Equestria Games. To make a long story short, my daughter, Princess Somnia, is due to be crowned as Queen of Equestria when she's old enough to take on the responsibility of ruling the nation. And I have no doubts that she will be a great leader for every creature that calls Equestria their home!"

Twilight turned to Duskwing, whispering a question to which he nodded. "My fiance would like to say a few words."

"Hey, everypony. You'll probably not be seeing much of me attending formal events outside of accompanying my bride." He winked to Twilight. "I'm not one for all this formal stuff. I would like to ask that me and my nephew be left out of the news as much as possible so that we may live normal lives. Well, as normal as we can get."

Celestia stepped forward to conclude the speech. "The full decree will be made available by tomorrow morning for everypony to view. We hope you will all respect the decisions of the princesses to secure the future prosperity of Equestria and the ponies who call our wonderful land home." She adopted a slightly lighter tone. "Now that the formalities are out of the way, let's get to making this a gala to remember!"

The music started back up with a far more lively tone and lights lit up the dancing floor in front of the stage. The Sparkle family made their way down the side to a few waiting ponies while Celestia went the other way to get onto the dance floor.

The noble couple Somnia had encountered earlier were some of the first to step forward. "Princess Twilight, all of this seems a little sudden. Nopony even knew you had a coltfriend until a few weeks ago!" The stallion protested. "What about the royal waiting period?"

"The old Treaty of Unicornia is gone, so there is no waiting period anymore." Twilight simply answered. "And given the unique circumstances, I would say that it is perfectly reasonable. I had been married to Duskwing for over three thousand years." She nuzzled her fiance. "It's not like we didn't get along back in those days, so I don't see why we wouldn't now."

Somnia bit her lip and closed her eyes. Her soul sight examined the emotions between them in depth. They were... No. She shifted her vision to examine Twilight's abdomen. That small feeling she got from a few days ago was bearing fruit, in a way greater than she could have possibly imagined.

Opening back up her eyes, she couldn't keep the smile off her face as she hugged her mom while she continued talking to the nobles. "And for our daughter's sake, having both of us around is only appropriate."

"Didn't you call him a monster at the Equestria Games tryouts?" The mare pointed out. "What's really changed since then?"

"We learned who we were." Twilight narrowed her eyes. "That's what's changed. If you don't like our choice to be together, I'd kindly ask you keep it to yourself."

The two nobles looked to each other before giving one last glare at Twilight and Duskwing as they made their leave. The next pony was a familiar unicorn stallion Somnia recognized from the press conferences.

"Name's Dandy Dispatch, Princess Twilight. It's a pleasure to meet you outside of formal events." He shook hooves with Twilight and Duskwing. "Off the record, I would like to know a bit more about how your relationship came about. Didn't seem like you got along at the tryouts, but two weeks later you were a couple?" He raised a curious brow.

"You're with the Canterlot Chronicle, right?" Twilight asked, to which he nodded. "Well, for the record..." She waited as he summoned a pencil and pad of paper in front of him, returning the knowing smile. "We had met before the tryouts, but only got a good chance to talk in Rainbow Falls. Duskwing came to Celestia's day court to seek an audience about getting support for thestral communities."

"We also weren't terribly friendly with each other either." Duskwing chuckled. "I essentially called her a tribalist."

"Yeah, well, I pretty much was in regards to batponies until we had a chance to talk in private." Twilight pawed at him, turning back to the reporter. "Anyway, at the tryouts I spotted Somnia eating meat and misunderstood why she enjoyed eating it so much. The news picked up the rest of what happened in the argument that followed, but what they didn't really catch was how I spent the rest of the day making amends with the Hollow Shades team. I admit, I was wrong about batponies. They aren't monsters, they really are just like any other pony."

"Ponies of Night, as they were referred to in old Excalicorn texts." Somnia added. "Compared to pegasi, the Ponies of Day."

"Interesting..." The reporter uttered while finishing his notes, looking to Twilight to continue.

"I found out the night after our argument he was my long lost husband." She faced him, locking eyes with her fiance. "And every moment I spent with him reminded me of why I would have fallen for him so long ago. He cares deeply about batponies, as much as I care about fostering friendships. I guess I let my preconceived notions of who can and can't form friendships get in the way of actually trying."

"It was quite the surprise when she came to me the next morning to tell me I was her husband and a dad." Duskwing laid a foreleg around Twilight's withers as they both turned back to the reporter. "I'm not going to abandon a foal of mine. Even if that means moving away from Hollow Shades and getting hitched to the fourth--" Twilight roughly nudged him in the side, forcing some air from his lungs. "My first and only favorite formerly single mare in Equestria."

"We hadn't planned on getting married so soon, but after Somnia announced it, we really didn't want to contradict her." Twilight giggled. "I am happy with Duskwing though. He's going to be a great dad."

"Already was!" Somnia added happily.

"Aww." The reported cooed. "Thanks for telling me all of this, princess. I'm sure the ponies of Equestria will appreciate knowing that the two of you are loving couple devoted to each other's and your foal's happiness. I'll leave you be to spend this wonderful night together." They bowed and left to let the last few ponies and dragon approach.

"Sooo, when were you gonna tell us?" Rainbow asked with a huge grin stuck to her face.

"We only decided a few days ago." Twilight admitted, her mind wandering back to their discussion. Could Somnia... Twilight briefly glanced to her still smiling daughter. An early pregnancy test would work... No, that medical device Somnia used might be able to detect it even earlier since Excalicorn was that much further ahead. But from Somnia's smile...

"It's fine, Twi. We support the two of ya." Applejack added.

"Absolutely. You two are a lovely couple. Almost like you are already married." Rarity winked.

Throughout all of this, Pinkie was barely holding in her excitement. She was nearly bursting at the seams to throw a wedding for the two right then and there. Meanwhile, Somnia was too excited to even think straight. There was so much to plan for, so much to anticipate. She hadn't foreseen this probability. It was overwhelming.

The group gave one last round of congratulation hugs to Twilight and Duskwing before they all went back off to their respective corners, Twilight turning to Somnia. "If you want, you can go hang out with the crusaders. I'm sure this party is going to be a lot more entertaining than the previous ones."

"Yeah, sure!" She gave her mom and dad one last big hug before trotting off in pursuit of her friends.

Before she could get over to where Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were hanging out, Somnia spotted a latent slime trail along the ground, hastily cleaned up. Bending down to it, she took a long sniff. Industrial waste water, and sawdust? Is that a hint of lavender too? No, it can't be!

Well, I think we know who Discord brought. Grar commented while Somnia turned to either side, spotting the pile of green slime with a bow-tie and top-hat. Let's go over an say hi. I'm sure they'll be happy to see you again.

Somnia trotted over to the 'Smooze', as they were lovingly called. They were slowly making their way toward two elderly ponies, likely hungry for gems and gold. "Smoozie!" Somnia trotted up to them, keeping a short distance so she wouldn't get slimed. "Long time no see!"

It turned back toward her, opening its mouth in a smile as it slowly moved toward her. Hold up, child. Don't want to make a mess on the queen again, now do you? The pile stopped and bobbed a bit in happiness at the sound of their creator.

"Aww, I missed you too." Somnia picked a gem from her necklace and tossed it to them to eat, the stone being absorbed and dissolved within the green slime.

Where have you been living all this time? Have you been-- Grar stopped as a chaotic presence loomed near them.

Somnia didn't even need to turn to know he was right behind her, the hairs on her back standing up by his mere existence. "You go by Discord now, Entropis?"

"That isn't a name I hoped to ever hear again." He slithered around her side, watching her closely. "I've changed, your highness. Maybe it's difficult to believe, but I'm not the same pony I was before."

I'll believe it when you no longer have the taint of chaos!

"You know I can't help what I am, Grogar." He wrapped around Somnia, bringing his face close to hers. "I've anticipated speaking to you. I'm being honest, I'm not the same pony I was before. You may not be able to trust me, so trust your mother then. She will vouch that I'm not the same pony I once was."

"Lies come naturally for malevolent entities like you!" She sneered back. "My mom--"

"Discord!" Twilight trotted over angrily. "I thought I told you to keep your friend under control!" She pointed off to where Rarity was laying on the ground, recently covered in green slime, the Smooze seeking the next unfortunate pony to slime. "And what are you two talking about?"

"I was just telling your daughter that she can trust me." Discord uncoiled and stood before Twilight. "And I have better things to do than to watch that thing all night." He waved his claw dismissively.

"Well, clean up after them! I don't want to have to keep telling you!" She tapped her hoof as he slithered through the air back toward his 'friend'. Sighing, she turned to her nearly shaking daughter. "Somnia? Are you alright?"

"One day, I will be." She mumbled, stomping off out of the gala hall.

Closing the door gently behind her, Somnia leaned up against it and took a moment to collect her breath.

"Oh, um..." Somnia turned her head to Apple Bloom and Nightwind, both staring embarrassed to the third addition to the room. "W-We were just, uh..."

"I don't really care if you were conceiving a foal." Somnia sighed, walking over to them. "I just needed some time alone."

Both looked between each other then back to Somnia. "Ya alright?"

"No, but I never will be." She sat next to Apple Bloom, hoping to change the topic. "You two kissed yet?"

"We were just about to." Nightwind rolled his eyes. "Why do you always have to butt in when we're about to?"

"I didn't mean to! I wasn't expecting to find two ponies kissing in an unused meeting room!" She raised her hooves in defeat. "I chose this room because it was out of the way!"

"So did we." Apple Bloom nervously chuckled. Somnia flickered her eyes between them, seeing both of their embarrassed blushes.

"Sorry for the interruption." She mumbled, getting down and leaving without a goodbye. She didn't even get halfway to the gala hall when Dawn and Dusty galloped up to her.

"Somnia! Thank the heavens you're alright!" Dawn hugged her, getting a light blush in response. "The entire gala hall has been covered in a magic resistant goo!"

"Seriously?" She groaned, continuing her march toward the hall at a slightly quicker pace. "Set your pistols to a medium-power beam and follow my lead."

"You know how to deal with it?" Dusty asked as she adjusted the pistol she had equipped on her hoof.

"It's probably the Smooze, which means our energy weapons can vaporize its slime. Avoid the face and other ponies, we'll clean them up afterwards."

Opening to door to the hall, they spotted that the Smooze had been corralled into a single large pile with the pony Fluttershy brought making weird noises. Somnia bit her lip. "Alright, change of plans. Reduce it to about the size of Luna."

The three stepped forward to the Smooze, each preparing their pistols as Twilight trotted over. "There you are, Somnia! What are you--"

She froze in place as all three pointed hooves toward the blob and a beams of light began boiling away the goo in the large pile, the Smooze writhing under the assault. Their goo turned to hardened flakes that fell from it in sheets, coating the floor next to them in dark green sand.

"Somnia! What are you doing?!" Fluttershy flew over, hoping to put a stop to the attack. "They're not hurting anypony!"

"Can't keep them this large." She simply said as the blob was reduced to half its height. "They need to stay at a certain size to prevent being a problem."

"You're hurting them!" She tried moving closer but Shield stepped in from the side to block her.

"Either this one time annoyance to remove the excess, or they will be starving for the next few months." The filly shrugged as she motioned her other guards to stop. Finishing the last boiling to slightly smaller than their previous size, she released the beam and checked the power level. Not even a percent depleted from where it was last, exactly as good as she expected the cells to be.

Despite being upset during the boil, the blob went immediately right back to being happy as it glided in pursuit of its next meal. "See?" Somnia gently smiled to Fluttershy. "They aren't actually feeling pain. They are a decentralized intelligence with minimal thinking skills. You don't complain when washing your hooves with soap and water or crushing grass under your hoof, so why should I when I help them?"

"That's just- just- cruel!" She shouted back. "They are an intelligent creature! They don't deserve to be hurt!"

"Yeah, totally not chill." Tree Hugger walked over to back up Fluttershy. Somnia pushed Shield out of the way and put a hoof to the green pony's chest.

"What the buck would you even know about the Smooze? I've known them since I was a little filly and this is how we dealt with them when they got into their food reserves. I was there when Og made them, and I cared for them for years! They can't sustain being that big, and nopony wants to deal with them when they are that large! It's better they are miserable for a minute or two at most rather than for months on end!"

"Somnia? You know the Smooze?" Twilight walked around Fluttershy to stand next to her daughter.

"They were my pet! Of course I know them!" She threw her hoof up. "I know how to take care of them because Og and Grar told me how! I'm not going to put up with their whining about how I 'hurt' my own pet because it was necessary."

"Somnia!" Fluttershy angrily turned on the filly. "How could you say something like that? The Smooze is a living creature too!"

"As much as bacteria is!" Somnia snapped, stepping toward Fluttershy, both of their wings extending. "They were designed to be a benign threat to others! That's why ponies float on the goo! That's why I was allowed them when I was still in diapers! They eat five things: Gold, gemstones, pearls, food that's gone bad, and biological waste! Their literal purpose was to be as simple of a pet as possible to take care of! You have a problem with it? Tough shit! I know more about them than either of you combined with your baseless assumptions of what they can and can't feel!"

"Somnia! Watch your language, missy!" Twilight frowned to her, turning back to her hurt friend. "She didn't mean to insult your--"

"I did, because she isn't as benevolent as she believes she is!" Somnia interrupted, the very air around her starting to create a light breeze. "She 'helps' animals by giving them safe places to sleep and eat, but in reality she is only hurting their chances of survival! Wanna know what I think of that wolf, Sandra? She's a pathetic welp! Normal wolves keep their distance from us ponies, normal wolves don't expect us to be friendly, because they are natural predators and we are supposed to be prey! It took centuries of constantly being repulsed with the utmost efficiency before the predators of Equus understood that there was only one truth to ponies: We are the most dangerous lifeforms on the planet, and they should fear us!"

From behind the crying mare, Discord stood with his claw and paw over his mouth. He slowly walked over to Fluttershy to place a comforting paw on her shoulder at which she turned and cried into his embrace. Tree Hugger stepped back. "Woah, not groo--"

"Shut your mouth, you drug-addled weakling!"

"That's it!" Twilight picked up Somnia in her magic, taking the filly who made no fuss out into the hallway while Celestia dealt with damage control. Bringing Somnia off to a distant room, she floated her in quickly before closing it.

When she turned her head she saw Apple Bloom and Nightwind making out on-top of the meeting table, feeling each other up. "Hey! Both of you, get out!" Twilight commanded, shocking them from their embrace. Neither argued as they galloped for the door without comment or a single look.

She set her daughter down, the filly still standing defiantly. "What is wrong with you?! Fluttershy is my friend and Tree Hugger helped calm the Smooze down after they flooded the entire room! You didn't have to go all tyrannical on them!"

"I'm not apologizing." Somnia growled back. "I'm right, and I'll never apologize for being right, no matter how much it hurts to hear the truth!"

"What makes you think you're right anyway? Just because you cared for them for years doesn't make you a good caretaker!"

"Because I studied their biology extensively and know their ins-and-outs! I'm as close to a professional when it comes to caring for the Smooze other than Og and Grar! What they were saying about the Smooze feeling pain is blatantly wrong at a biological level. They don't feel pain, they feel discomfort! It's a mere inconvenience for them, and your friend and her druggie tag-along refused to listen when I told them that! I did what I needed to for the Smooze's benefit, like a responsible owner!"

Twilight mulled it over. If Somnia really did know what to do, then letting the Smooze starve would have been...

"You didn't have to call Tree Hugger names and say Fluttershy was hurting her own animals." Twilight countered.

"You have a problem with that?" She stepped forward, Twilight backing up a step. "Everything I said about Fluttershy was correct. She isn't helping them in the long term, she's only weakening their ability to survive on their own by making them dependent on her. By giving them free handouts, they won't grow up to be strong and independent creatures capable of handling themselves without ponies. It's as much abuse as a parent who keeps their foal inside all the time for their own safety. As for Tree Hugger..."

Somnia sighed, shaking her head. "I may have gone too far with her. I was always told that using recreational drugs for serious conditions isn't right. I guess I just... lashed out."

Twilight pulled a chair out from the meeting table, sitting down along with her daughter. "You didn't need to be so mean about it. Ponies don't listen all that well when you are yelling at them, telling them they're wrong."

"They suggest I'm hurting my pet, even after I tell them I'm not, and I'm the unreasonable one? Where's the sense in that?" Somnia looked back up, the anger fading. "Wouldn't you get mad if somepony said you were abusing Spike because you let him eat gemstones? Or how about abusing me because you have to go off so often to deal with things outside of Ponyville? How about when I saw you at your desk fuming because of that summons you got to discuss 'potential foal abuse' after I was rescued? You were mad, you didn't stay calm when you stomped from the house to go to town hall. You weren't calm when you threatened the mayor with legal action against the complainant."

"Y-You..." She facehoofed. Of course she would know about that! "Can't hide anything from you, can I?"

"No..." The filly sighed. "No, you can't. Being mad is sometimes good. Emotions can be used for good and bad, it's up to us to determine the proper times they are appropriate and in what amounts." She swallowed, remembering the time Grar told her exactly that. "I-I'm willing to apologize to Tree Hugger for calling her a drug addict, but I'm not going to apologize to Fluttershy for what I said or did."

"I wish you would, but I know that I can't convince you that you were in the wrong." Twilight swallowed her own feelings on the matter as well. She didn't want to admit it, but Somnia's logic made sense outside of current Equestrian philosophy. It was consistent with reality, it was consistent with her experiences, and it was more than a valid interpretation.

And that was more worrying than she felt comfortable with.

"I'm sorry for calling you a 'drug-addled weakling'. It was too far, I was out of line, and I hope you can forgive me." Somnia lowered her head to the green and red earth pony. They looked wearily to her friend next to her before giving her response.

"Wasn't groovy what you said, but your energy says you're honest. I can forgive you." She replied. "What about Flutters? You were pretty hurtful to her flow too."

"We'll deal with that later." Twilight petted her daughter's mane. "Let's try getting back to making this a good night."

Fluttershy gave one last hurt glare at Twilight before heading back over to the table with Discord waiting patiently. Sighing, Twilight brought Somnia over to a table she had picked out for herself and Duskwing, the latter already there setting up a clean sheet over it.

"How'd it go?" He asked as all three took their seats.

"Not good... but not bad either." Twilight admitted. "I'll need to invite Fluttershy over to the castle after the gala to make sure she's feeling alright and to explain Somnia's position."

"Why can't I explain it to her?" The filly asked.

"Because Fluttershy probably won't want to talk to you and it would be a good idea for a friend to speak to her." Twilight sighed. "It's going to be a hard conversation, but hopefully she'll understand."

"I'm sure she will. Seems like the accepting sort of pony." Duskwing added.

"Wanna go dance? I've been kinda looking forward to it tonight." Twilight half-smiled to her husband-to-be.

"Wouldn't have it any other way." Duskwing got up and the two made their way back to the dance floor while Somnia sat and watched. Excalion flew down from the ceiling to land in front of her, carefully eyeing her over.

That bad, huh? The crow cawed uncharacteristically, getting groan from the filly. Discord was right, he has changed. I was there when Faustinia performed her ritual on him. He's still a chaotic entity, but there's more heart than malevolence nowadays. He really does care about others.

"Thanks for making me feel sooo much better." Somnia sarcastically mumbled, her head staying on the table.

Never meant to. You are wrong and you have to accept that. Would you like me to call them over so we may discuss? He probably won't be too happy that you refused to apologize to his lover.

"They're a thing?"

No, but I would hazard a guess that is where they are headed. She turned her head to look over at the three. She's a kind soul, one that would be willing to overlook his worse characteristics. He's chaotic, but willing to do what he must to stay on her good side, even making amends with the fact he has to share her affections with another.

"She'll be heartbroken when he's gone."

So will I. Excalion hopped a bit closer to her, resting next to her cheek. They've been a good friend whenever they weren't under their chaotic tendencies. Doubt they would claim they feel the same way toward me, but they would be saddened to hear of my death.

"They have changed. And so have you." Somnia flicked her eyes over to the bird in her peripheral vision.

I know I can't convince you, but the least I could do would be to ask you to make sure they are erased completely. I don't want to suffer knowing I'll never see them again after they're gone. She took off back toward her perch at the top of the room, leaving the filly to stew in her thoughts.

Somnia brushed her teeth and spat out the water, checking them briefly in the mirror. She decided to turn in earlier than her mom and dad, not that it would have mattered since they had been given separate rooms. Her dreams were... interesting, to say the least. She confirmed what would happen later on, giving her an eleven month timeline for the guard armor. She wants her guards to be able to face down an army by the time her sibling comes along.

There was still the issue of the tenth-month irregularities, something that needed to be dealt with closer to the date. She checked a few specific points in the timeline, but much of it was still blurry. Her birthday was a complete mess, giving nothing helpful on the day of and seemingly being the point where everything became even worse, clarity-wise. Same with around the time her sibling was due to be born.

"You're awake already?" Spike groaned from the main room. "It's not even sunrise."

"Couldn't sleep." She wiped her mouth with a towel and trotting out, switching the light in the bathroom off before going to the door and quietly leaving.

"Couldn't sleep?" Scuttle asked, raising a brow as she turned to him.

"There's something I need from the archives." She whispered, trotting past him in the direction of the castle exit. The actual archives themselves were just outside of the castle, meaning she would be off castle grounds, which prompted Scuttle to briefly leave a note for the others at their room.

They trotted out and around to the archive grounds, a few guards nodding to them as they went. Entering into the archives, she made her way toward the one spot she wanted to check.

"You!" She pointed at a guard as she went. "Follow us."

The three came to the entrance for the Star Swirl the Bearded wing, the guard unlocking it for her to enter with Scuttle. "What are we looking for here?"

"You are guarding, I'm looking." She went along the different shelves, checking the various items. An instruction text for Grogar's Bell, a universal key-book, a time travel spell...

Picking at the shelves, she found one written in Equinish script, taking it out to have a look at.

'The End of Eras'. An unusual title, and an even more unusual location, being located under the section for temporal magic. Bringing it to the reading table, she opened it up and began reading.

The book was filled with all sorts of pictures and diagrams, symbols, and sigils, each of which she began to understand what they meant based on the provided context. Apparently Star Swirl had gone to Excalicorn at some point, moreover, they had traveled into Excalion's Tower. They found these symbols in a book left in--

Somnia closed her eyes, dragging up memories as far back as she could go. There it was. 'The End of Eras', the original data-tablet, kept in her room when she was still just a young foal. Her mother said it was just a story text when she was older, that she put it back where it belonged when Somnia got old enough. It wasn't just a story text.

Through her soul-sight, Somnia could see the sigils as clear as day along with what lay beneath. Carefully examining each page, she made her way through the book, making sure not to leave anything out. This is what she dreamt of. It wasn't an ordinary book, it was this. Drawings of the Councilor's Orb with exquisite notes to describe the various functions that might have been possible according to Star Swirl, a condensed family tree going all the way to the first pair Excalion and Grogar chose, Sombra Balisic being recorded as the first alicorn, and at the very back of the book her name written onto--

Opening her eyes, she saw the book disintegrate in front of her, it's essence turning into a representation of Star Swirl the Bearded, exactly like the enchantment she did for her mother but far clearer and with its own magical charge.

"Sombra, please excuse the crude method by which I am contacting you." The figure spoke in Equinish script. "There is much I must divulge regarding the text I found within your room. Contained within the text were stories written by your mother while she carried you within her, each one containing codes I was able to partially decipher. After this message is over, the original tablet will be reassembled for you to read. Search within the book on Grogar's Bell for my notes on the deciphered text.

"I wish I could live to see you return, but there is a threat I must make the ultimate sacrifice for. The safety and prosperity of Equestria depends on it. Take your time reading through the text. I have already seen some of the written stories come to pass within my own lifetime, and have no doubts more would have come to pass since. My father also wanted to give you a gift for your ninth birthday, one I will now provide. Happy birthday, Sombra Temperii."

The figure reformed into a hard-copy data-tablet with a small, red ribbon on top. Examining the tablet, Somnia saw the original text in an unknown language before picking up the ribbon. She closed her eyes and beheld the intricate markings along it. While on the outside it looked like an ordinary ribbon, within was a highly complicated web of thaumaturgic matrices. She pushed back her mane and tied it with the ribbon, taking care to keep her eyes closed.

Once completed, she could see different symbols within her vision that told her of various things. Room temperature, number of significant soul signatures nearby, body function warnings, etc. Opening her eyes, the display faded, but would reappear if she focused on it.

Grabbing the data-tablet, she went over to the book Star Swirl mentioned and used the universal key-book to unlock the chains around it. She quickly flipped through the book, grabbing the notes before putting the book back and locking it up.

With a sigh of relief, she made her way back toward her room.

Author's Note

I'm probably going to get some comments about Somnia's position, so I ended up writing paragraphs of stuff that outlined it in detail. Long story made much shorter: She has an opinion.

Chapter 27: Gifts

Somnia dragged her hooves along the ground toward the dining room. The massive yawn the filly gave disturbed the crow atop her horn, getting them to fly up before re-perching themself.

Please hold still, I’m trying to preen. Excalion cawed back at her, readjusting her position to not scratch too hard. For either of them.

“Maybe you should’ve chosen a better creature than a bird. Like a cat, or a dog.” Her low, course response was responded to by Excalion who started pecking at her mane.

Can a cat or dog fly? No, didn’t think so.

If we grafted wings to it like that one time, sure. Grar interjected.

“Are you two ever going to show me your super-duper secret lab?” Somnia asked, suppressing another yawn.

When you’re older, and capable of traveling across near-zero degree temperatures. Grar answered.

“Zero degrees isn’t that bad.”

Absolute zero, Som. Excalion clarified.

“Oh.” She giggled. “That’s a bit too cold for me.”

As it was for everypony else, exactly why we made that field around the facility. Not a single creature would evolve to handle such temperatures or lack of air that far into the arctic plains. It would be suicide to try adapting up there.

Her journey came to a halt in front of the dining room door, Somnia sighing and preparing herself for what was about to happen. She pushed it open to see her family smiling at the table, waiting for this exact moment.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SOMNIA!” Nightwind finished the unanimous yell with the blow of the party horn.

“Yeah, thanks.” She dragged herself over to the table, slumping down next to Nightwind. “Still tired from last night.”

“If I had known you were going to be up, I would have come down and said happy birthday then.” Twilight giggled. “We’re having something special today, specifically for you.”

“Something special?” She raised an eyebrow. “Better not contain blueberries.”

“I think Spike and Shield got the message last time.” Duskwing chuckled while shaking his head. “You still haven’t told me the story about why you don’t like them.”

“It’s all she ate when lost in the forest.” Twilight rubbed his closest foreleg. “Breakfast, lunch, and dinner for almost four days straight.”

“I’d think I’d choose to go hungry if I had blueberries that often.” Nightwind fake gagged as Shield exited the kitchen and came over to place breakfast in front of each pony. Somnia could only stare at her dish, eyes shimmering. It was from Excalicorn, her favorite meal of all time, but...

“Had to substitute for the pink clams since I think they went extinct, but hope it will still taste good.” Shield patted her head. “Happy birthday.”

“Thank you!” She turned back and hugged him before digging face-first into the dish. Between bites, she spotted her mom had a different version that didn’t include any meat, but her cousin and father both had the same thing she did. Spike came walking out of the kitchen with his own breakfast, a hash-brown and egg dish. She finished before the others, content to sit back with her eyes closed, savoring the tingling aftertaste.

Her soul-sight wandered while she waited, focusing back on her mother, or rather to her sibling. The pregnancy took hold. Without a doubt, her mom was going to have a foal. Somnia could even tell the kind and sex through the soul-sight, alicorn and female.

“So when’s the wedding?” Somnia opened her eyes and grinned at her parents.

“We haven’t talked about it yet.” Duskwing turned to Twilight. “Any ideas?”

“I don’t know. Maybe we can talk about it after giving Somnia her presents?” Twilight suggested.

“Sounds good to me.” He leaned back with a contented sigh, his plate only half empty. “This is a very filling meal. I’ll have to save some for later.”

Nightwind pushed his plate toward the center of the table, having finished only a quarter. “Don’t like it?” Somnia giggled.

“No, it’s really heavy.” He burped, getting some chuckles and giggles from around the table.

“It’s meant to feed alicorns.” She patted her belly. “Very nutritious, but also very filling. How did you get the recipe for it?”

“Princess Celestia sent a letter saying it would be a nice dish to try for your birthday.” Twilight replied. “Although, the changes made to mine may have taken out that level of nutrition.”

“Have you ever tried meat?” Somnia asked.

Twilight shook her head. “No, and I don’t think I would be able to.”

Returning her memories, Somnia searched for something specific. Out of the pony kinds, changelings, thestrals, and seaponies could eat meat. According to the wings and horn, she wasn’t a changeling or thestral, but...

“You can eat meat.” Somnia nodded. “You’ve been able to since becoming an alicorn.”

“How would you know?” Twilight tilted her head.

“You’re part seapony. It’s your earthly trait.” She saw looks of confusion from the others. “Alicorns have three pony types, each from a different trait group. Magic, flight, and earthly. Mom’s magic is unicorn, her flight is pegasus, and her earthly is seapony.”

“So what are you?” Nightwind asked.

“I’m what’s known as a true alicorn. I’m all eight.”

“Eight?” Duskwing followed-up. “I thought there was only four-ish, five if you include changelings.”

Somnia took a deep breath. “The magic group contains unicorns, changelings, and kirin. Flight group contains only pegasi and thestrals. And the earthly group contains earthlites, zebra, and hippocampuses.”

“Kirin?” Twilight turned to her husband, the stallion raising a curious brow. It wasn’t the first time Somnia had mentioned them, but she still didn’t know what they were. Seaponies sometimes were mentioned in obscure mythology texts or the oldest of stories, but kirin were absent altogether.

“Luna and Celestia I would guess are both unicorns and pegasi, and I would assume Celestia is part earthlite and Luna part hippocampus.”

“And what’s so special about each?” Twilight asked, popping in a quill and paper to take notes.

“Unicorns are the most magically powerful. Changelings can change into other forms and sustain themselves off of love. And kirin can catch on fire, becoming almost indestructible.” She paused for them to take it in.

“The kirin’s ability is to catch on fire?” Nightwind playfully bumped her with an elbow.

“It’s not so funny when they’re charging you down, burning everything in their path.” She prodded him back. “Pegasi can go super fast both on ground and in the air. Thestrals are almost completely silent when moving, and both can manipulate weather. Earthlites are super strong, seaponies are kinda like fish and can survive underwater, and zebras are most in-tune with the natural world.” She nodded. “Also, each group has their unique magics. Horns for the magic group, flight and wings for the flight group, and connection to nature for the earthly group. So the most pure of each would be unicorns and zebras, with pegasi and thestrals being equals.”

Twilight finished writing what she said, placing the paper and quill back down on the crystalline table. “I guess we were really far off from Excalicorn in that perspective. Most ponies assume that the three tribes are the only pure kinds of pony, if they even consider thestrals at all.”

“Pure?” Somnia pawed at the air, her smile growing. “I’m the only pure one. True alicorns are ascendant, and alicorns are much further ahead than all the others.”

“Oof, my tribal pride!” Duskwing keeled over onto the floor, sparking laughs from the others.

If it makes you feel better, Excalion landed on the table to pick away at the small bits of food left on Somnia’s plate, we tried creating a third for the flight group, but it didn’t work. I ended up using that gene template for the hippogriffs.

Duskwing pulled himself up from the floor, eyes on the crow along with Twilight and Nightwind. “W-What do you mean create a third kind?”

Shit! Grar swore. This is exactly what I didn’t want to tell them, you dumb bird!

“W-We were created?” Twilight turned to Somnia, who had shrunk back in her seat. “You knew, didn’t you?”

She lowered her eyes to the table, her voice low. “Sorry. It’s just that ponies needed to be a certain way.”

The truth is in the open now. Excalion cawed. May as well tell you the relevant parts of the story. Grogar and I are aliens, if you didn’t already figure that out. We came from distant worlds, passing through the veil to fulfill a singular task: Create the Grand Councilor of Harmony. To do so, we needed to make an ascendant species, the so-called Children of Harmony. After the world’s creation, we setup a facility to engineer the species present. We introduced bacteria, viruses, simple plants, more complicated ones as we made them, and after much time, creatures.

Grar continued. This led to your kind being made using an old gene template from the Fallen’s Golden World: Ponies, as they once were called. We focused our efforts on producing an ascendant variant, what we call ‘true alicorns’. Alicorns themselves are much closer to true alicorns than they are the eight weaker sub-types. None had ever been born before Somnia. She was the first, and will not be the last, if any of us three have anything to say about it.

Excalion cawed, hopping to the center of the table and motioning her wing toward the ceiling. One day, ponykind will join the Cyclical Union, for you are an ascendant species at your very core. Each of the six ascendant species possess a specific form of immortality, unique to the essence they embody. As ponies return from death, we girivi are uncoupled from physical matter, and filifair change their form to suit the new conditions. A marvel of biology and psionics unmatched by mortal creations.

My second hardest project. Grar added.

My proudest accomplishment.

“And I wouldn’t have it any other way!” Somnia finished with a determined smile.

“Hmm, Nightwind? Do you want to go first?” Twilight smiled at her nephew on the large couch with Somnia.

He nodded back to her before turning and hoofing a small box to Somnia; the filly rattling it near her ear to build the suspense. The family had moved up to the living area, sitting in front of the crystal fireplace for the gift unwrapping. After everypony showered, at least.

She opened the box, looking up to smirk at her cousin. “Thought it looked neat?”

“Y-Yeah? Do you like it?” He asked with a nervous smile, trying to judge if he screwed up.

“It’s a high mana gemstone.” She put it on the side table before moving over to him to give him a hug and kiss. “Thanks. I love it!”

Next was Spike’s. While she unwrapped the box, Somnia tried thinking of what it could be, looking inside. “Cool! Where did you get these?” She pulled out a few comics.

“The House of Enchanted Comics in Canterlot!” He proudly grinned back to her while Twilight glared from the side. “What? They’re cool!”

“Well, I love it!” She gave him a tight hug. “We should read them together sometime.”

“Alright, here’s yours from me.” Duskwing pulled out a small jewelry box. “I know it ain’t much, but I always intended to give it to a daughter of mine.”

She opened the box and took out the lunar necklace, eyeing it carefully. Biting on it, she tried bending it with no success, finally rubbing her hoof along the surface. Old bits of knowledge came back, her eyes widening. “How much did this cost you?” She turned up to him in shock.

“It got passed down through the generations on my father’s side.” He rubbed the back of his head, smiling back up at her. “Like it?”

“This is worth over ten-thousand bits! It’s pure trisium!” She squealed in delight, running and pouncing into his forelegs. “I love, love, love it!”

“That’s trisium?!” Twilight floated it over from her daughter, taking another solid look of it. The quality of the lines on the moon now made a lot of sense. “We were going to give it away like it was nothing!”

Duskwing groaned, covering his face with his hooves. “If I had known that, I would have sold it.” He let out a sigh, pushing his daughter from him. “Ten-thousand bits could have gotten that damn hole in the house repaired!”

“Well, I’ll make sure to wear it proudly.” Somnia winked at him, giggling a bit as another idea came to mind. “Or maybe I’ll melt it down.”

“I kinda feel bad about my gift now.” Twilight picked up yet another small box, floating both it and the necklace over to Somnia. “The Tree of Harmony summoned me to it to get this for you. I don’t know how it dropped in front of the tree, but it was adamant it would be sufficient for your gift on its own.”

Taking the box, Somnia’s smile dropped as she opened it to a red glow. “I know it isn’t much, just an interesting magical rock, but you like unique rocks, right?” Twilight asked, nervously smiling as Somnia’s eyes twinkled, staring at the contents.

By the Ascended...

It’s been right under our noses this entire time.

With a touch of her hoof, it lifted into the air before the group. The four of Somnia’s family staring in mixed fascination and horror as it distorted into a gelatinous blob, then into a gas, before a bright light which flowed into the filly. Her eye color changed to red for only a few seconds before returning to its usual light blue, albeit with flecks of red and green disrupting the iris.

“Somnia. What was that?” Twilight whispered, her heart pounding away at what she had witnessed.

Moving her hoof along the fabric, Somnia giggled, breaking into a laugh as she fell from the couch. “That was one of my catalysts! T-They came from the Excalicorn Amulet!” She rolled around, the other four eyeing her, confused at why she found it so funny, until she settled into a giggle. “And to think, I thought my gift was something else!”

“Like what?” Twilight scrunched up her brows.

“In you!” She wiped her eyes, getting onto her hooves to go over to her mother. “Thank you for the gifts! I couldn’t ever repay them!”

“Giftssss?” Spike scratched his head as Twilight’s eyes widened, gasping out loud.

“Y-You mean...” Twilight started hyperventilating as she turned to the equivalently shocked Duskwing. Neither knew what to say. The idea was an ‘if,’ a hypothetical. But now they knew where their relationship would be going. “I-I can’t believe it!”

“N-Neither can I!” He joined the hug with his bride and daughter. “This is wonderful!”

“So how about that wedding?” Somnia smirked up at both, sticking out the tip of her forked tongue.

“Can somepony please explain what’s going on?” Spike flicked his eyes between them, lost about what they were going on about.

The group hug broke off as Twilight grinned at both him and Nightwind.

“I’m pregnant!”

Somnia stood just outside the castle, feeling the very air around her shifting with the light breeze. Focusing on slowing time, she reopened her eyes at her advanced speed. Stepping forward, the push-back of the very soil of the path gave her pause, the mere friction and displacement of the soil enough to make her think twice. It wasn’t like the superhero comics Spike read. She took a few more steps forward, each time making sure she was getting proper hoofing before the next. She took off toward Ponyville, each step propelling her faster and faster until she reached the edge of town, then past the town hall, then stopping in front of the Everfree Forest next to Fluttershy’s cottage.

Checking the real-time, she realized only two seconds had passed since the slowdown. She trotted back toward Ponyville, watching the slow motions of the other ponies around her with fascination. They would hardly see the light from her before she had moved on to another location. Trotting down the path to the schoolhouse, she marveled at the world in slow motion. Birds mid-flight, the leaves bristling in the wind, a fellow filly caught mid-trip, which Somnia corrected so they wouldn’t hurt themself too much.

Besides further extending her time dilation, it also negated the effects. The super-speed was a convenient bonus, too. Opening the door to the schoolhouse, she waltzed in and over to Ms.Cheerilee’s desk, where she grabbed a few pieces of paper and wrote a quick note on them. She trotted over to each of the CMC’s and Nightwind’s desks to place them before walking back from the room, closing the door behind her to confuse the writing Ms.Cheerilee.

The moment she sped time back to normal, a brief rush of air accompanied the atmosphere resettling into its appropriate spots. She straightened up at a yelp and crash inside the schoolhouse, Somnia opening the door and peeking in to see the teacher on the floor looking around, terrified.

“Sorry about that.” Her low voice got Cheerilee to turn in her direction. “Didn’t know it would cause a gust of wind.”

“That was you?!” She got up, going to the doorway. “But how?!”

“Watch.” Somnia trotted off in slow-time to as far down the path from the schoolhouse to still be visible before resuming the flow. Cheerilee blinked before looking up at the filly waving to her. A fraction of a second later, Somnia was in front of her again. “Neat, huh?”

“H-How are you doing that?” She asked, her voice absent of emotion from being too caught up in the fact she witnessed a filly teleport without magic.

“I just think of it, and it happens.” Somnia shrugged. “Anyway, gotta go keep testing! See ya!” She disappeared less than a blink later.

Tapping a rock with her hoof, Somnia hummed as she put her hoof on top of it. Before the catalyst, she wouldn’t have been able to break a rock like this with pressure alone, but...

A cloud of dust appeared the moment Somnia thought of putting pressure down on it, blinking a few times, her eyesight unaffected by the particles. “Huh.” She breathed in all the dust she could and held her breath for several minutes, letting it back out slowly.

Huh, indeed. Grar commented.

“I gotta check something else.” She walked over to a large boulder and punched it, the immediate face shattering to dust, splitting the rest of the boulder in half. “Okay, super-speed, super-strength, and I don’t need to breathe. Can you think of anything else to try doing?” She trotted back at normal speed toward the town.

Light yourself on fire? I don’t know. This is abnormal, even by my standards.

“On it!” She super-sped her way back to the castle, startling Dusty into dropping her spear.

“Where the hay did you come from?!”

“Those mountains.” Somnia pointed into the distance, trotting past her guard into the castle. She made her way upstairs, all the way to the top balcony, and throwing herself off. She impacted the ground right in front of Dusty, hoof-first, her legs buckling and bones shattering from the height.

“SOMNIA?! Are- Are you...” She backed off as the filly got back up onto her hooves.

“Okay, that’s good to know.” Somnia turned her head up to the balcony. “Practice my landings.”

“You jumped from the balcony?!” Her jaw dropped. “A-Are you testing some potion o-or...”

“Nah.” She trotted back inside. Somnia went straight for the basement, grabbing her energy pistol and setting it to high.

Are you sure that’s-- Grar went silent as she blew off her front hoof, blood splattering around her.

“No pain.” She watched as the hoof clotted seconds after, then folds of bone and skin began remaking it from nothing. Within a minute, it was back to normal. “So I’m not indestructible, but probably can take an energy bolt to the head and live.” She pointed the pistol at her head and fired.

The world went dark except for her soul-sight, revealing the enhanced details of the world in motion. The magical signatures were incredibly easy to notice now, as well as who made them. She watched as her neck regrew her head over several minutes, bone by bone, strand by strand. Once her brain reformed, she could start making out vague traces from her new reforming eyes. She moved over to the mirror to watch her mane regrew, taking a knife from next to her and cutting off a length of hair; it regrowing in seconds.

“So how do I...” When she thought of changing her mane style, her hair moved on its own to shorten or lengthen at her command. She grabbed her red ribbon and reformed her mane to be long enough to tie back on her head, smiling at her new mane style. Turning her attention to her body covered in blood, she thought about shedding it off like snow, and so it transformed into a powdery snow that fell from her. “That’s convenient.”

Nightwind and Dusty were right. You’re insane.

“Haven’t you ever tried to kill yourself?”

“What happened down here?!” Twilight trotted in, worried at the blood on the floor as she searched for where Somnia was, finding her unharmed daughter standing at the mirror and pointing warily with a hoof. “Did you change your mane style?”

Trotting over to the remains of her scalp, she picked it up and showed it to her mother with a grin. “Pretty cool, right?”

“I... don’t even want to know.” Twilight backed up, her stomach already turning.

“Watch this!” She used the pistol to blow off her hoof again, Twilight’s heart skipping a beat at the blood showering over the floor and leg, all the while her daughter smiling without a second thought.

“S-Somnia...” Twilight fell to her haunches hyperventilating, as she watched the hoof regrow before her very eyes.

“I guess I won’t need the Queens Guard to protect me now.” The filly giggled. “I’m practically invincible!”

Twilight got up from the ground onto her shaking legs and hugged her. “N-Never. Do something like that. EVER AGAIN!”

“What?” She pushed her back, bringing her old bloodied scalp between them. “It’s not like you can bite off my head anymore.”

“I-I’m going to go--“ Twilight turned and galloped from the chamber, Somnia watching from next to her the entire way as she rushed for the bathroom. Once inside, Somnia closed the door and re-positioned her mother’s mane to prevent puke from getting on it before resuming real-time.

A knock at the door alerted the two of them as her mother puked her breakfast. “Twilight? You alright? Shouldn’t be morning sickness, you haven’t been pregnant for THAT long.” Duskwing’s muffled voice came from the other side.

“I’m...” Twilight turned her head, seeing her daughter. “How did you get in here?”

“I followed you.” She disappeared with a small burst of wind, leaving the door open to a confused Duskwing.

“Seriously?” Spike shifted on his feet.

“Come on, I can take it.” Somnia stood stock still, waiting for Spike to start.

“Your funeral.”

He breathed in as much air as he could and blew fire over her. Somnia could feel her fur waving in it, but it otherwise only burned away a layer before reforming. Her eyes weren’t so lucky, boiling from the temperature. Spike finished and dropped his jaw as her front returned to how it was in only a few seconds. “H-How...?”

“The stone mom gave me. She didn’t like it when I blew off my hoof in front of her, but it was a functional demonstration.” The filly trotted past on her way to the next test.

Making her way to the Everfree Forest, she got the approval of Isirilas before making her way into its depths, going off the path and jumping into the swamp face-first. She didn’t even bother to close her eyes or hold her breath as she swam along, using her soul-sight and physical-sensation to locate her next target.

Timber wolves are gathering around the pond. I believe our friend is as curious about what you are about to do as I am.

There it was: a cragadile. Swimming up to it, she tapped its tail to alert it to her presence. It snapped back, its stony jaws piercing straight through her body. She used her back legs inside to kick the back of their throat ‘gently.’ It released her from its grip, giving her the opportunity to reposition herself to hold its jaws open.

She flipped up on top of it, its jaw coming down on her hoof and ripping it off. She used her other hoof to drag it to the shallow end and right onto land while it kept trying to snap at her, but she kept her grip on it as she walked on her reforming hoof.

Once a fair distance away, she let go, and it turned right back to snap into her leg, ripping it off at the shoulder. Blood sprayed from the wound onto the ground around them for only a few seconds before clotting.

Somnia giggled at the confused cragadile that stared at her stump, it dropping her leg and snorting. “You’ll have to do more than that.”

It went for her other leg, one which she used to close its jaws in slow-time and flipping herself onto it to apply enough artificial weight to prevent movement.

“Must’ve been a nice snack, don’t you think? Do you still believe you can beat me?” She held her regrowing leg right in front of the cragadile, its fear levels spiking into full-blown terror. With a simple hop from its back, it ran for the safety of the swamp while she sat and waited for her leg to regrow.

A timber wolf jumped from the bushes, intent on impaling her in its jaws until she used her good hoof to shatter it into wood splinters. Several more gathered around, bowing as she sensed a deep rumble beneath her that only got more violent. Birds flew away, what few ground critters she could see with her soul-sight fleeing for their lives.

Once they burst from the ground, they straightened themself to their maximum height, as tall as the trees before lowering into a mock bow before Somnia. They resembled a serpent with over a hundred little appendages on all four sides meant for quickly moving or tunneling. Exactly as she remembered him, albeit a little larger. Yellow and green of vines curled around their small legs to punctuate the brown and gray silicate shell, a powerful scent of pine and decaying plants washing over her. Even the five bladed pincers on his face were the same, dripping with rancid green acid capable of melting some of the most resilient alloys.

“I wasss worried about your capabilitiesss, your majesssty.” Their hollow voice brought a larger smile to her face. Isirilas really didn’t change all that much from her time. “It ssseems your power hasss grown sssince we lassst ssspoke.”

“Catalyst number two, acquired.” She stepped forward to the tunneling serpent, laying her hoof on what would be its cheek. “I hear you’ve been having problems?”

“Froggy Bottom Bog. There isss a hydra that tearsss up my treesss.”

“Take me to there, we can negotiate with it.” She got up onto Isirilas’ back, grabbing onto one of the lower tunneling limbs.

Without delay, they burrowed into the ground and toward their destination. Dirt and rocks scratched at her body, but the healing factor made any damage only last a second. Within only a few minutes, Isirilas burst from the ground next to the swamp.

Jumping off, Somnia moved across the land parts, looking around at the waters while Isirilas kept their distance.

“So… What should I expect from the hydra?” Somnia asked as she grabbed small rocks to toss off into the swamp.

It’s big, mean, and almost unkillable. Don’t bother trying to kill them, go for trauma. Puncture through the necks of all but one, fitting a piece of wood or something in the hole to prevent regrowth. Once it’s down to one, make your demands.

“Right.” She watched as its heads rose from the swamp. “And try not to get eaten.”

We can punch our way out if it comes down to that. Or if you want to wait--

“No, thank you. That could take days.” She tilted her head at it, staring down at her with snarls on their heads. “Hydra! I’m here to bargain!”

It dived for her with one of its heads, impacting into her forehooves, cracking the facial bones as she halted it from plowing her into the ground. “I tried asking nicely, so this is your--“

It flipped her high into the air above them, getting her to sigh to herself: “Hard way it is.”

As she fell, it aimed her into its mouth. Rather than try causing damage on the descent, she fell straight into its maw. Its back-teeth tried to chew against her but she kicked and punched them until it spat her out along with the shattered remains of that head’s bloody teeth. Slowing down time, she ran to the forest to grab a thick and long branch, throwing it into the air toward the hydra’s back. Satisfied with the angle, she went and grabbed two more to throw before running to the leg.

Her hoof pierced straight through to the bone of the Hydra’s thigh, Somnia using her hooves as climbing claws to make her way up to its back. Once atop, she sped up time enough for the branches to get close; the hydra teetering in surprise and shock when she brought it all back to a crawl.

Grabbing one branch, she moved to the neck and punched straight through the spine and out the other side, implanting the branch. She repeated the process with the other heads until there was only one. Hopping back to where she started from, she returned to normal time to smile at its three disabled heads droop, the last calling back to them in an enraged roar.

“I’m still here, Hydra! Want to talk now?” She tried again, attracting the last head which attempted to crush her. Its face met her forehooves like last time, the two glaring one another down. “You’ve tried that. It didn’t work, remember? It’s going to be days before your other heads can dislodge those branches, meaning you’re in charge. Look, if I can do that to three of your heads, I can do it to you, too. I’m going to make you a deal: Stay away from the Everfree Forest. Don’t even dream of stepping foot in there or destroying Isirilas’ trees again, or I will be back to finish the job. Permanently. Understood?”

It nodded hastily. “Good. Now go tell Isirilas that.” She pointed off to her friend. The hydra stomped over to the tunneling serpent and growled something before retreating into the swamp, Somnia trotting back to her friend. “They told you?”

“If you had sssaid you were going to sssingle-hoofedly get a hydra to defer to you, I’d have sssaid you’re delusssional.” They moved into a bow. “But thank you for doing that.”

“Least I could do after what you gave me for my birthday. If you ever need my help with anything, just send a wolf and I’ll help. You’re my friend. I’ll come running.” She got back on top of them. “Can you take me back home now?”

“Somnia?” Twilight reentered the downstairs lab, spotting the filly still cleaning up all the blood she got everywhere. “Where did you go off to?”

“Fought a hydra.” She stated simply. “It’s going to leave Isirilas alone now.”

“Spike said you had him breath fire on you.” She sat near to her daughter, but kept her distance from the blood. “Any other new powers I should know about?”

“Strength, speed, better time dilation, rapid healing, close range transmutation, personal biosculpting, and being unkillable.” She tapped her chin. “I say that’s a pretty nice upgrade.”

“I would say so too.” Twilight nodded. “Are you okay with having a younger sibling?”

“Yeah.” Somnia turned over to her mother. “Know the kind or sex yet?”

She shook her head. “We want it to be a surprise.”

“Well, I’m not disappointed about the kind.” Somnia smiled back, waiting until her mother caught on to what she was getting at.

“T-They’re an alicorn?!” Twilight covered her mouth. “T-That’ll be the first alicorn born in--“

“Over a thousand years, not since Luna.” She nodded thoughtfully. “I’ll leave the sex reveal up to you. It’ll be nice to be the older sibling for once.” She went back to scrubbing the floor, stopping only a few seconds later. “What am I doing?”

She got up and began hovering one of her hooves over the bloodied spots, converting the blood into water. With her daughter getting into another one of her productivity spells, Twilight got up and went over to the door to leave her alone. Not like Somnia wouldn’t have told her to stay if she wanted the company.

“We’ll be going to Canterlot after Cranky and Matilda’s wedding for the Grand Equestria Pony Summit.” Twilight called back before leaving. “Don’t forget to come up for fresh air!”

Somnia finished up with the transmutation before grabbing some towels to wipe it up. She stopped mid-wipe, sliding onto the towel. “I could have transmuted it into air.”

I was wondering when you would realize that.

Chapter 28: Times Gone By

“Would you hurry up in there? We’re going to be late!” Duskwing tapped his hoof on the crystal floor, waiting for his nephew on the other side of the door. It was typical of him to take his sweet time in the bathroom, a habit that hadn’t changed between Hollow Shades and Ponyville. He didn’t know what his nephew was doing, but he took his time doing it.

“Almost finished! Don’t rush me!”

“It’s not your wedding!”

“Annnnd done!” He opened the door to his uncle, receiving a raised brow in response. “What?”

“Toilet paper?” He pointed to Nightwind’s hoof. The embarrassed colt grabbed it and threw it back before trotting off with Duskwing toward the castle entrance.

“Where’s Somnia?”

“Out. Somewhere...” He shook his head. “I swear, she gets worse every day...”

“Aww... I was hoping she’d like to get something to eat at Sugar Cube Corner before the wedding.”

“We can still go.” Duskwing opened the doors to the outside, Shield standing guard for them.

“The queen wanted me with you on account of the threat.” Shield turned over, suppressing a yawn with little success. “But damn, am I ever tired from helping with her experiments last night. Will you two be alright on your own?”

“Go get some rest. Twilight and her friends are handling it, so it can’t be that bad.” Duskwing walked past with the colt. “No hide off my flank.”

The two batponies made their way into town where a crowd of three dozen ponies had gathered to watch the Elements of Harmony strategize, Dusty standing nearby in case they needed her help. Both trotted along the edges when he spotted blue and pink mare tugging along a cart toward the town hall. “Mrs.Cake!” He waved to her.

“Oh, Duskwing, I’m so sorry, but I need to bring these to the town hall before–“ A roar interrupted her as a large bug-like bear with black and yellow strips swooped down and flipped her cart, all the pastries being dumped to the ground as the bear flew off.

“NO! All my hard work... I-I need to get back to the shop! Sorry, sweetie, but the wedding comes first!” She ran off in panic, leaving the stallion standing there with his mouth open.

“That could have gone better.” Nightwind let out a giggle at the bewilderment on his uncle’s face.

He narrowed his eyes on the colt. “That also means we won’t be able to go to Sugar Cube Corner either, mister.”

“Aww...”

After a few seconds, Duskwing thought of something else. “Buuut, I think there’s something even better we could do.”

“Another!” Scutellum burped as loud as possible while the unfortunate employee made her way over to his table.

The waitress shook her head, taking his glass with her. “Don’t you think you’ve had enough?”

“Not unless they make bottled love. I don’t think so.”

“I know somepony who can give a little love.” Blossomforth walked out from behind him, offering a huge grin. “Remember me?”

“How could I not?” He gave a chuckle, shaking his head. “Only pony I’ve seen let a changeling feed off of them willingly.” His voice lowered to say under his breath: “Except Somnia.”

The white mare with a green and pink mane sat down across the table from him, keeping her cheerful expression as she tapped on the table with her hooves. “Don’t you want to go to the wedding? It’s going to be a wonderful event filled to the brim with love!”

“So is a restaurant-bar during midday.” He gestured around the cozy bar. “Look at all the single mares and stallions lookin’ for somepony special!”

Blossomforth took a weary look around. Other than the two of them and the waitress, there was only Caramel at the dark-brown wooden bar. “Um, what?”

“That was sarcasm. I was talking about you.” She blushed at his comment. “I know you got feelings for me while you sheltered me, but you know I don’t feel the same way. It was a onetime arrangement, and you got paid well for assisting the Queens Guard. We both knew that it was going to end sooner-or-later, and that we needed to keep things professional.”

“I-I know, but maybe now that you don’t need to hide, we can start over?” She asked while smiling at the changeling, his wings fluttering with the sudden dose of emotion.

He thought about it for a few seconds before shrugging. “Buck it, what do I have to lose?”

Lovisa settled back into her seat, drifting off as the muscular stallion worked his stallionly magic on her paws. With the time off, she was going to spend it pampering herself. They didn’t have many salons in Griffonia, at least outside the major populated areas, which made her first time that much better. Her beak turned up, relaxing into letting go.

“Ahh... it’s so lovely, isn’t it?” A mare near to her asked out loud.

“Yeah, sure is.”

“I wasn’t speaking to you. I was speaking to myself.” The mare said back. Opening her eyes, Lovisa didn’t recognize the blue mare on the bench across from her as a local. Now that she thought about it, she didn’t recognize her from anywhere.

“And who are you?”

The mare gasped. “How could you not have heard of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Only the most renowned magician in all of Equestria!”

“Not into fake magic.” Lovisa closed her eyes, letting out a light chuckle.

“If only you could see the mighty and impressive tricks of the Great and Powerful Trixie, you would be stunned in awe by her spectacular performance!” The mare let out a sigh. “But Trixie isn’t performing in Ponyville anytime soon. Please go to Tall Tale if you wish to see her next show-stopping extrrravaganza.”

“I’ll pass. I get enough excitement in my day-to-day as it is.”

“Hmm, your loss.” Before Lovisa could get back into the swing of relaxing, she heard that damn mare mumbling to herself. “Yes, please do. Oh, the Great and Powerful Trixie does enjoy your gifts. Mmmm!”

Grumbling to herself, Lovisa tried blocking her out. Hopefully, they would–

“An encore? Don’t mind if I do!”

Motherfucker!

“Ta Da!” Duskwing stepped aside, motioning at the bowling alley. “Whaddya say? A round before the wedding?”

“Awesome!” Nightwind trotted up to the doors as they swung open, sending him into a bush next to the steps.

“Dude, what the buck’s your problem?” Duskwing rushed over to his nephew, seeing the colt holding his nose as it bled. “Great, a bloody nose.”

“I’m so terribly sorry, but I must stop her before she causes a catastrophe!” The stallion galloped off while Duskwing checked over Nightwind. Rosebush, just my luck.

“Let’s get you to the hospital and get you patched up. Hopefully, it’s not broken.” Duskwing helped his nephew from the bush, making sure not to get him pricked anymore, although he got a few pricks of his own in the process.

He carried the colt toward the hospital, entering the waiting room with a few other ponies. While he waited, he checked the fresh cuts on his nephew. It wasn’t too bad, requiring only disinfecting and bandaids. With nothing else to do, he took a few trips to the washroom to grab paper towels to hold to Nightwind’s nose and to wipe the blood off themselves. In a few minutes, the nurse trotted in for them.

“What brings you here today?” The white and red mare with a nurse’s hat asked, glancing between the two.

“He got tossed into a rosebush.” Duskwing rubbed his forehead. “And may have a broken nose.”

“Well, let’s get him into a room and get him checked out.” She led them to an examination room and began checking the cuts. She used disinfectant wipes to clean the different wounds, putting bandaids over the ones that hadn’t already clotted. Last, she returned to his nose, taking out the tissue she had stuffed inside and checking for bleeding.

“He seems alright for now. A bit of bruising, but nothing serious. How did this happen?”

“Some stallion opened a door and knocked him into a rosebush.” Duskwing rubbed his nephew’s mane. “We were going to go bowling.”

“Well, he’s fine to do that.” She nodded to them both. “Try to avoid getting his nose impacted anymore, though. Don’t want to come back here, now do you? If his nose bleeds again after an hour, come back and I’ll have another look.”

“Yeah. Thanks for all this, Redheart.” He helped the colt down from the examination table, noticing he was a little hesitant. “Say thank you to the nurse, Nightwind.”

“I, um...” He swallowed. “C-Can I have a moment alone with her?”

“What? Don’t trust me?” Duskwing let out a chuckle while patting the colt’s mane. “No problem. Tell her what you need to.” He walked out to give them a little privacy.

“Was there something else?” She asked.

“Y-Yeah. I, uh, kinda got cut...” He flicked his eyes toward the floor. Nurse Redheart sighed, closing the door and grabbing gloves. She helped him back up onto the table and pulled back his sheath.

“Just a cut?” She deadpanned, glancing up at his face. “Fooling around in the wilderness, have you?”

“Please don’t tell my uncle.” The colt pleaded as the nurse went over to the medical cabinet to take out a small ‘pen’.

“Has your uncle told you about safe sex yet?” She asked as she positioned it over the cause of concern.

“N-No... But I haven’t had sex yet!”

“No filly using their mouth?” She glanced up at his blushing face. “Yeah, thought as much. You should really reach out to your sexual partner...” She stopped as he turned away, even more embarrassed. “How many?”

He covered his face. “T-Three...”

Redheart applied the cryo-pen onto the growth, freezing it over and getting a yelp from the colt.

“Wow. I never thought the changelings had it that bad.” Blossomforth took another drink from her smoothie. “Probably not much family, right?”

“Oh no, plenty of family. Brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, distant cousins, grubs, whatever. With most of the hive being from the queen, we’re kinda like a big, dysfunctional family.” Scutellum leaned back, sipping from his own smoothie.

“Don’t you have to worry about... you know?” She lowered her voice.

“Nah. Changelings are used to things like that.” He lifted one of his wings. “This little hard line along here is a birth defect, but not one that’s all that important. It’s what we are. My brood-mates may as well be distant relatives for all it matters. We’re not like other ponies, we don’t gotta worry about that stuff.”

“So have you ever...?” She blushed at the thought, grinning and waggling her brows back at him.

“Queen doesn’t like competition.” He leaned back to take a long sip, triggering some giggling from her. “I got some offspring running about somewhere in the hive after she used me to produce more infiltrator candidates. Wouldn’t recognize them, and they wouldn’t recognize me. That’s our way of life under Queen Chrysalis. I’m glad to be rid of it though. It’s a lot nicer to actually have others be friendly with you because they’re your real friends, rather than because they want something.”

“Have you ever been with others while on missions?”

“You would know that, but yeah, plenty of times. Back when I was in Canterlot before the wedding, I was serving as the consort for some lesser noble. Concubine, really.” He cracked a smile at the old assignments, reminiscing about those days. “I’ve been on both ends, but never have I had foals with a target.”

“Didn’t you feel bad about tricking them?” She played with the straw in her smoothie. “Any regrets?”

“Sometimes, but I knew I had to return home. I had my orders, my responsibilities, and I carried them out without question. But...” He paused, frowning at a particular memory. “There was this one time I was infiltrating an orphanage in Baltimare, like twenty years ago, when I was still new at infiltration work. I found out they were abusing the foals there. I was on the receiving end of a board a few times, but I had to deal with it for my job.” He took a breath in, exhaling it into his smoothie as he lowered his voice. “Tipped off the local guards about what was going on. Got reprimanded a year and a half later after I returned to the hive.”

“W-What did they do to you?”

“Added a few extra holes.” He lifted one of his forelegs, pointing with the other to a particular spot. “Didn’t have six of these before then, but now I do. It’s a pretty common form of punishment rather than executing us. Though I did nothing super serious, only compromised the mission replacing the orphanage staff.”

“You helped those foals, though. Isn’t that something to be proud of?” She grabbed his hoof and held it with both of hers. “That’s an amazing thing you did, and you didn’t have to do it. It took a lot of courage to stand up for what you believed in, knowing you would get punished in such a cruel way.”

“I didn’t tell you how I left. A family that ran a local business adopted me. I stole their valuables and made a run for the hive. Mission was a failure, but I didn’t return empty hoofed.”

“Oh...” She frowned, casting her eyes back to the holes on his leg. “Do you know how you got each one?”

“Yeah.” He pointed to a series over his body. “These I got shortly after I hatched...”

Sipping from the pot, Dawn let out a sigh. The soup needed a few more minutes before it would be ready. He stirred it a bit more while he waited, thinking about nothing in particular. Too tired to focus on two things at once, and the soup was number one.

Shield chuckled from the doorway, alerting Dawn to his presence. “Midday snack?”

“It’s almost dinner for you day types.” He said under his breath. “I’m hungry.”

“Yeah, I get that.” Shield walked over, picking up a spoon and taking a sip of the soup. “Needs more salt.”

“I like it this way.” Dawn glanced over at him. “Aren’t you supposed to be protecting those other two?”

“Duskwing dismissed me.” He went over to the cupboards. “Use any crackers with it?”

Dawn continued stirring his soup while Shield poked at the different foodstuffs on offer. “No.”

Shield started taking out the dinner supplies for himself. He was thinking something with grilled vegetables, possibly even some toasted bread on the side. Perhaps even a lovely puree to dip it? Oh, so many possibilities!

After another minute, Dawn picked up the salt and added it to the soup, stirring it some more. Shield kept his mouth shut as Dawn tried it again and switched off the stove.

He shifted the soup onto a tray and carried it into the dining hall with him, Dawn briefly returning to pour himself some orange juice, casting a quick smile over to Shield.

“Thanks for the advice.” He said under his breath to his fellow guard, putting away the juice before he took his glass into the other room.

Shield smiled to himself, answering once his friend was out of earshot. “You’re welcome.”

Breathing in the fresh park air, Lovisa relished the sun’s light caressing her face. She had retreated to the most peaceful part of town. No annoying magicians talking to themselves, no bugbears, and definitely no–

A pony sat down on the bench next to her, loudly unwrapping something. Opening her eyes, Lovisa glared at the unicorn mare that ate her wrap. “Seriously?”

“Wat?” She chewed her bite, swallowing it. “It’s a public bench.”

“Whatever.” Lovisa shook her head and turned back up to the clouds above, the soft shapes drifting by. One of them kinda reminded her of a hoof flexing. The clouds weren’t as big as they were back in her old home. It ached a little to think of those days, standing alone and always looking over her shoulder for threats. Here in Equestria, her new home, it wouldn’t hurt to open up.

The mare continued with her wrap for another minute until Lovisa asked her a question. “You a local? I don’t remember seeing you around before.”

She regarded her remaining bite. “No. I’m just traveling through.”

“Seems a lot are ‘traveling through’ for the wedding.” Lovisa let out a light chuckle. “What’s your name?”

“I...” She stayed silent for a moment. “Glimmy. You can call me Glimmy.”

“Nice to meet you, Glimmy. I’m Love.” She turned back down to the pony, reaching out a claw to shake, the mare hesitantly accepting the gesture. Lovisa returned to the clouds as the mare finished her wrap.

“What’s a griffon doing in Ponyville?” She asked, Lovisa sighing out loud.

“My job. I’m a guard for a lunatic and her family.” She provided a crooked smile to the mare. “Have some downtime while the wedding is happening. What about you?”

“I’m passing through on my way to see somepony.” The unicorn turned up to the clouds for a few minutes, the two sitting in a comfortable silence. It was nice. Lovisa closed her eyes again to let the world soothe her back into relaxation. The sounds of the distant townsfolk chatting or the occasional bugbear roar caressing her ears, a light breeze blowing over her body, the warmth of the sun on her face and claws...

“Nice chatting, ‘Love’.” The pink and purple mare finally got up and trotted away.

“You too, ‘Glimmy’.” She said, voice drifting, dozing off with a smile on her face.

The crystalline train jerked to a halt, or as much of a jerk as it could, before Somnia readjusted her motion atop the carriage. She spent the better part of the day napping on top of the train from the Crystal City, but now the waiting ended.

Using the train’s momentum change, she launched herself down the tracks well beyond the station before she circled back around the castle and made her way to the train station to stand at attention for her favorite living aunt and uncle, finally returning to normal speed.

The engine released its built up steam as the doors opened and several crystal guards stepped out with a bright light coming from within. Stepping out next were Cadance and Shining Armor.

“Aunt Cadance! Uncle Shining!” Somnia trotted up to them and gave each a hug, her soul-sight readjusting. She turned up to Cadance with a huge grin on her face. “How was your trip?”

“Uneventful.” Cadance turned to Shining aloofly, although their niece knew they totally bucked. “Nothing really to do while waiting.”

“Well, I hope you’re all cleaned up because we got a wedding to go to!” Somnia grabbed her hoof and dragged her along, trailed by an amused Shining Armor. When they made enough distance, Somnia stopped and faced her aunt, eyes sparkling. “Have you been trying for a foal?”

“Maybe.” Cadance smirked down at her. “Why? Do you know something we don’t?”

“Maybe.” Somnia walked around Cadance, rubbing her side. “Wouldn’t surprise me to learn you gaining a few pounds in the next few weeks.”

“Well, you should probably keep that to yourself for now.” Shining Armor picked her up to put her on his back. “How’s your mom been?”

“You should ask her yourself.” Somnia gasped as she realized something, glancing between the two. “I still need to introduce you to dad!”

“Yes, please do.” Cadance gave a smile to her husband. “It will be nice to meet our other brother.”

The two adult ponies trotted along, Somnia atop Shining Armor, toward the town hall with their small gifts floating behind. The three entered the hall where several other ponies had already arrived, including Celestia and Luna. To one side was where the elements were supposed to be seated, and that’s where Duskwing and Nightwind were with a bloody tissue to the colt’s nose.

“Dad!” Somnia hopped down from Shining Armor and ran for her father, the two others following behind. “This is Aunt Cadance and Uncle Shining Armor!”

“It’s good to finally meet you.” Shining Armor stood up tall to the unamused thestral that turned away from Nightwind after he applied his own hoof to his snout. “I hope you understand that my being Twilight’s big brother gives me–“

“I’m older than you.” Duskwing shook his head. “And I’m technically her even older brother.”

“Shining.” Cadance gave her husband a hushed whisper before turning to Duskwing. “It’s so good to meet you. Duskwing, is it?”

“You would be correct, your royal highness.” He bowed his head for her, turning his smug grin back to Shining Armor, who tried his best to not outright scowl.

“Dad has been really looking forward to meet you two!” Somnia hopped up on her dad’s back in one fluid motion. “Isn’t that right?”

“Right.” He let out a chuckle, grabbing her and bringing her into his forelegs for a noogie. “Can’t let anything slip from this little monster.”

“Somnia, why don’t we go over and talk to Celestia and Luna?” Cadance ushered the filly off, giving the two stallions a moment to ‘talk.’

Shining stepped up to his fellow stallion with a dead serious demeanor. “If you so much as hurt a hair on her–“

“Relax, drill sarge. We’re fine without somepony with more muscles than brains watching over us.”

“I know your criminal record. You assaulted a guard and–“

“Got pardoned for attempting treasonous secession by Celestia herself. Yeah, I read my record too.”

“It’s Princess Celestia to you!”

“She’s literally our niece, and also my granddaughter.” Duskwing raised a brow. “Not used to the family dynamics yet?”

Something wet dropped onto Shining Armor’s head before he could respond to that remark, at which he raised his hoof up and touched whatever it was. He scrunched up his nose as he sniffed it, turning his gaze to the rafters where a crow was practically laughing at him.

“Here, use this.” Duskwing hoofed tissues over from the box Nightwind was using. “We don’t need to be enemies. Let’s make it through the next year without getting our throats torn out, alright?”

“I doubt you could even do that if you tried.” The captain wiped the bird poop off his mane, grateful it blended in with the white spots.

“Oh, I wouldn’t.” Duskwing’s smugness returned in full force. “My daughter would on my behalf.”

“Wonderful display! Bravo!” Discord mock clapped, making sure not to draw attention to himself in the rafters.

I do what I can. Sometimes, somepony needs to have their parade rained upon. Excalion cawed in a laugh.

He smirked down at the regal sisters who were talking to the pink one and her. “I do hope that extends to Celestia and Luna.”

They’re not so bad once you get to know them. Kind-of like you. She landed atop a neighboring support beam.

“Ugh, they’re insufferable! Discord, do this! Discord, don’t do that! Discord, I don’t want the castle laundry room covered in molasses! They have no taste for the finer things in life!”

Like spreading chaos?

“Exactly! Even the queen is more amusing than them.” He glared down at the filly in question.

Try getting on her good side, please. She’s already seeking to put you into an early grave. Tempting her won’t make things much better. Excalion flew over to Discord and nested next to him. Hopefully, she’ll see you have changed.

“I doubt it. Her and her mother will never trust me.” He searched around the room from his vantage point. “Where is my dear Fluttershy? The ceremony is about the start.”

Outside making their way back to the town hall. Excalion watched as several ponies flew through the door and into their seats along with the musical arrangement. They won’t make it.

“Shame.” Discord snapped his fingers, disappearing with a flash and leaving his crow friend behind. Excalion flew down toward Somnia, who now had returned to her seat.

“Have fun?” The filly stuck out her tongue at her friend, Shining Armor casting an annoyed glance over to the two of them. Excalion perched herself atop Somnia’s horn and began preening herself.

Ceremonies of marital union were inconsequential for her. She’s been married before, several times, but it was the marriage itself that mattered, not the wedding.

And what a marriage it can be.

“Here we are!” Shield set down the orders in front of each of his fellow guards, taking his own seat at the table.

“To friends!” Dawn raised his glass, the others clinking theirs against one another before taking a drink in unison. The other tables around them chatted with happy ponies, spending the time after the wedding to celebrate on their own for its own sake. It was quite the night at the restaurant-bar, with friends and lovers laughing and singing in their own little groups. An orange candlelight illuminated the various tables of the room, the bar at maximum capacity with the bartender doing their best to keep up with the orders.

“You seem satisfied with yourself.” Shield gave a knowing smile to Scuttle. “Get lucky?”

“A little.” He dug into the nachos at the center of the table, not even bothering to put any on his personal plate. “Blossom was willing to give a little love to starving ‘ling.”

“You two gonna be a thing?” Love stacked a bunch of nachos onto her own plate while the others sifted through the other hoof-foods on offer.

“Nah. She gets that I’m not into her.” His throat let out a chuckle. “Still didn’t stop her from offering a mutual ‘love’ exchange.”

“Ugh!” Dusty covered her eyes. “Everypony else has luck but me!”

“You would too if you actually tried.” Shield bit into his grilled veggies, swallowing before continuing. “Difficult to get laid if you don’t talk to anypony else.”

“Hay, even I can get laid!” Dawn cracked up as Dusty glared at him, Love wincing.

“Yeah, no. Fucking foals doesn’t count.” He received a jab in his side.

“We could hit the town during heat season. Probably some stallions lookin’ for action. I’ll even go with you as a mare if you want a threesome.” Scuttle said, smiling at Dusty while he sipped from his mug of beer.

“Ugh, no! I don’t want to hop on some random stallion!” She tossed her mane to get remove it from her eyes. “If I get pregnant, I’ll never hear the end of it!”

“Pretty much.” “Yup!” “Yeah, you’re right about that.”

Dawn let out a suppressed laugh. “Y-Yeah, you mares can’t hold yourselves back during heat season. Always looking to take off the condom or ‘forgetting’ to use a protection potion with one excuse or another.”

“Hey! At least we have some restraint, unlike you stallions! You’re the ones who want to always finish inside!” She pointed at him while Love and Scuttle both chuckled. “What’s the single mother rate in Equestria again? Forty percent? Yeah, I don’t think it’s a mare problem!”

“Can’t you both just agree that Equestrian parenting standards are shit and move on?” Love said, failing to suppress her own laughter. “S-Seriously! With three mares to every stallion, I’m surprised it isn’t higher!”

“Single parents get subsidies.” Shield pointed out. “Really, it isn’t as bad as it seems. Although, ponies could be more open to forming herds to help ease the stress on the economy.”

“None of you are parents. Do you really think you know what it’s like?” Scuttle said to the entire group. “I’ve had over forty grubs of my own. None of you got shit on me!”

“And how many did you actually raise?” Dusty squinted at him. “Really? How many?”

“None, that’s what the hive matrons are for.” He grinned back at her, crunching down on a nacho. “Only like six survived past two years, but six is still better than zero.”

“What are you all doing here?” Twilight asked, stepping up to the group, Duskwing’s wing draped over her back.

“Just chatting.” Dawn leaned on his hoof. “Talking about how Dusty really wants to get pregnant.”

“That’s not what- UGH!” Dusty slammed her head down on the table, getting laughs from her friends. “I hate you all.”

“I’m sure she’ll find somepony who will treat her right one day.” Twilight giggled at the mare’s misfortune. “Did any of you attend the wedding?”

She received a round of head shakes from others. “Well, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the next wedding.” Duskwing said, pecking Twilight on the cheek. “You’re all invited to ours.”

“I hope you all have a good time tonight. See you tomorrow!”

With a final wave back to the group, the two lovers went off, leaving the guards to grin at Dusty, her head still on the table. She looked back up at them, squinting at each.

“Fine. Scuttle, I’ll go with you next heat season.”

“That’s the spirit!” Dawn took a swig of his drink to finish it. “I’ll go get us another round!”

With Dawn gone, Dusty began taking more of the foods on the table for herself. Dawn came back a minute later with five more cups. Each took their cups and clinked them in the air.

“To Dusty!” The other four called out, smiling at their friend. “One day, may she get laid!”

Chapter 29: Queen of Equus

This better be important. You were told only to reach out if there was a serious problem!

There is. Somegriff wants to use unconventional torture methods on the filly, ones I am against using.

Ya see, it’s a pretty quick way of breaking her. It ain’t permanent, and it would improve the morale of the whole team. Since the commander said no, I wanted to ask you–

I don’t care what you do! As long as it isn’t permanent and you don’t kill her, break her however you see fit!

B-But–

No buts! This is the task we’ve given you! If you don’t like it, then leave!

“Welcome to the Grand Equestria Pony Summit!” Luna announced to the gathered crowd of representatives. Cheers echoed through the hall as they cheered for the princesses on stage. For one princess, however, time moved at a crawl.

Somnia had recently foregone wasting such opportunities in front of sizeable crowds to examine each attendant. She could memorize their cutie mark, coat color, mane color, and quirks within a mere second of spotting them. Her breathing was steady as she grazed her vision over the crowd, operating with slow precision to give the illusion she wasn’t zoned out. One effect of the most recent catalyst included making sleep obsolete. Her mind and body were hers, and nopony was going to take them away from her ever again. Even so, sleeping and eating still was nice to do, especially since her dreams could still hold useful information.

Within the crowd there were three thestrals, additions her mother made to the usual invites. Hollow Shades, Texcocoa, and Luna Maria all sent representatives, the largest centralized thestral settlements with some form of leadership. Somnia had spent the better part of the previous day, which amounted to about two hours, to memorize the names and cities of every pony in attendance, but it still would take her time to put names to ponies. Or griffon, in one case.

It was still all pointless in the grand scheme of things. Their lives were temporary, they would be forgotten as soon as they passed from common memory of the current living. And yet, they all sought to make a difference. It was their purpose in life, and worth more than all the bits in the world. Her pointless actions meant something to these ponies, that they knew a princess would learn about each of them and their struggles. And within their satisfaction, Somnia found her own.

“You delegates have traveled far and wide to represent your cities as we seek to celebrate and learn from all the unique places that make up our wonderful land of Equestria.” Celestia continued. “At tonight’s welcome reception, Princess Cadance will dedicate this beautiful friendship statue made up of gemstones from each of your home cities.”

She floated the tarp off the statue next to the stage to reveal it in all its splendor. Somnia traced her eyes along it, her mind wandering off to a distant memory.

“Sombra!” Her mother yelled out, scratching her head. “I know you’re in here somewhere! There’s only so many places you can hide!”

“You’ll never find me!” Somnia misdirected her voice to another area, turning around only for a flash to appear right in front of her.

“Nice try, but you’ll have to try harder next time.” Her mother picked her up in her magic and brought her through the grand hallways of the tower. She carried her daughter to a particular room, entering and locking the door with a magical seal before moving to the table with her daughter. “You need to learn about the different territories and creatures of the Harmonic Empire. One day, this will be important.”

“Now I’d like to turn things over to the one who organized the summit, Princess Twilight Sparkle!” Celestia stepped to the side to allow Twilight to step up. Much of the tasks Somnia dealt with while her mother slept, at least what she could do without communicating with other ponies. They had spoken about Somnia assuming some of the administrative work for her mother while she was pregnant to manage the stress and to teach her how to deal with those things on her own.

“Thank you, everypony. With delegates from over fifty cities attending three days of conferences, receptions, and meetings, this is the largest Grand Equestria Pony Summit yet! And let me tell you, putting it all together was quite the task, one I couldn’t have done alone. We’re so excited to have you here and to learn more about life all across this great land of ours!” The crowd cheered while Spike tugged Twilight’s tail. “And now my faithful assistant Spike would like to say a few words.”

“Um, hello, everypony! I’m here to help any way I can. So if there’s anything I can do for any of you–“ Somepony in the crowd cut Spike off.

“We love you, Princess Twilight!” “We love all the princesses!”

The crowd cheered while Somnia picked out a particular sample from the unintelligible mess. “Long may the queen reign!” Her vision checked how each pony present reacted, judging their intent with a careful eye. While a few were hollering with enthusiasm, most gave measured responses. There were ponies that only added their voice to the crowd in a limited capacity, going along with the flow rather than for genuine praise.

“I guess everypony loves a princess. Hmph.” Spike huffed, Somnia going over to him.

“It’s not as glamorous as it seems. See these ponies,” she motioned to the crowd while maintaining her gentle smile and quiet voice with Spike so nopony except those on the stage could hear over the cheers, “they will say anything to get on our good side. You may see adoration. We see manipulation. It’s a simple truth of rulership.”

“Indeed, it is.” Celestia said down to them with a hushed tone. They all went off stage for the subsequent follow-up meetings, a few representatives holding them up. While Somnia went with Luna for the border cities conference, Spike left to head back to the room. In a way, she felt bad for Spike. He gets overshadowed by everypony around him. She considered what Celestia had said in the restricted section of the Canterlot Library. It would give Spike purpose, it would give him prestige, and he would feel important.

Somnia continued to trot along with Luna until they entered a large meeting hall which some delegates had already entered, each shaking hooves with the princesses who took their places at the front of the crowd. First up, Count Greenfields from Saddleways, Macintosh Hills.

The filly half listened to the talk, the other half focusing on whispers behind her. Defensive deployment seemed to be hotly contested. Some ponies to her back-left were discussing naval expansion being a better use of resources, and her back-right agreement with the count. The back-middle was different, considering the actual danger posed by the cyclopes compared to the northern border and Army of Featherburg.

“We need to sure-up Equestria against threats within our borders! As long as the cyclopes present an existential threat to southern Equestria, we will never be safe!” He finished his speech to a modest amount of clops.

Next up was the representative from Trottingham and the Griffish Isles, the singular griffon in attendance. She got up onto the stage and looked over the crowd, her eyes settling on Somnia. “Hello, everypony. You’ve all heard about the armies from the Kingdom of Featherburg gathering across the sea from the Griffish Isles. We are near completely undefended in the north. We barely have enough creatures to fend off a few thousand, let alone the full strength of their military, a-and we’ve been having extreme difficulty in explaining the situation this far south.

I-I want to tell you we’re scared. We don’t want their armies coming to Equestria. We want to stay in Equestria, a-and we would kindly ask you all to support additional E.U.P. placements in northern Equestria so that we aren’t–“

“This isn’t the place for making demands!” One member of the crowd yelled out. “We all got our own problems to deal with!”

A few murmurs came from behind the princesses, one of which Somnia could pick out. “We wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for that filly.” As she bit her lip, she knew deep down they were right. The Kingdom of Featherburg was only there because of the magical bursts from her.

“Why shouldn’t we be making demands? Our concerns aren’t being taken seriously, unlike the central cities and towns of Equestria! They talk economics and social issues while we are fighting against all sorts of aggressors! Count Greenfields was right, the cyclopes need to be dealt with!”

“My grandma lives in Silver Shoals. I don’t want to think what will happen if they attack.”

“We got thestrals all along our flank! What will we do if they rebel? How would we support a fight against the cyclopes?”

“You think you got it bad? Changelings are always crossing the border! We need a bigger navy in the Lunar Sea!”

“Forget the changelings. Those griffons are a real problem! Celestial Sea or bust!”

“Somnia.” Luna leaned down to her. “We need to speak to them directly.”

She nodded, both princesses getting up to go onto the stage with the Griffish Isle speaker while the crowd argued among themselves. Luna thanked her before addressing the crowd. “Please! We mustn’t turn in on ourselves like this! I agree with all of you, the E.U.P. needs to be expanded in order to protect Equestria against an ever worsening world. I’ve personally seen the Army of Featherburg, and I admit we are currently out of position to deal with them should they attack the Griffish Isles.”

“We need action! For Equestria!” a pony from the crowd yelled out.

“I one-hundred percent agree. The E.U.P. needs more soldiers, we need more ships, and we need to focus our efforts away from already secure territories to ones where our defenses are lacking.”

“We wouldn’t be in this mess if it wasn’t for her!” A mare from the crowd yelled out, pointing at Somnia. “She’s the reason we’re in such dire circumstances!”

“Do not blame this on Princess Somnia–“

“Just ‘princess’? Didn’t Princess Twilight say she was going to become queen?” Another pony yelled out, the crowd getting a bit more riled up.

“It’s like Hollow Shades all over again.” Somnia whispered to Luna. “We need to do something, not just say it.”

“But we can't do anything on such short notice without triggering a diplomatic incident.” Luna replied to her, making sure the microphone was out of transmission range.

“There is an option, but I’m going to need a mountain to destroy and several representatives of neighboring kingdoms. And I need my mom.”

“Destroy a mountain? But how?”

“I made something in case another Tirek shows up. Only my mom can use it, and we only have the one, but I think we can spin this in our favor to make other creatures think twice about attacking us.”

“If you know what you’re doing, I’ll find you a mountain.” Luna turned back to the crowd. “Everypony! We would like to announce that the E.U.P. is planning to demonstrate a new form of weapon within the coming months. This new revolutionary form of weaponry will show the other nations of our world that we are not as defenseless as we seem. Should any of you wish to be present, please leave a note with Princess Twilight to refer it to me.”

A few grumbles came from the ponies in the crowd, but they all quieted down with the declaration. Somnia sighed, knowing that this would be the start of a long couple of days.

Sitting next to Celestia, Somnia took a moment to close her eyes and retreat into her thoughts. This was supposed to be her last conference of the day before retreating to her room. Cadance, Celestia, and herself were all present and ready to listen to the talk on the state of Vanhoover’s confidence in the princesses, with Manehattan countering. While most of the meetings she had attended were light, often about local economics or minor social issues, there were many that ended up with worrisome arguments.

“How’s your day been?” Celestia leaned down, whispering to the filly and petting her mane.

“It’s been bad.” Somnia opened up her eyes and stared into Celestia’s. “The mere fact we’re here to listen to a major city’s lack of confidence in our rule is bad.”

Celestia frowned. “I understand their frustration, but at our next Princess Summit, we can figure something out to restore confidence. These meetings and conferences aren’t a complete loss.”

“Ladies and gentlecolts.” The Vanhoover representative spoke up from the stage, turning all eyes toward her. “Thank you all for coming to this discussion between myself and my colleague from Manehattan. I would like to say before we start, I do not represent the official position of the city council or Vanhoover at large. I am merely relaying the concerns of a majority of citizens.”

“And I’m not just here to counter their remarks on our wonderful leaders. I wanna set my friend straight about her feelin’s on the princesses.” The accented stallion across the stage from her added.

“With that out of the way, I shall begin with my opening remarks.” The earth pony mare cleared their throat. With a sigh, Somnia watched on disinterested by the dialogue as the two argued back and forth about what the princesses can do, should do, and did. It was all so dull. They brought up things from hundreds or even a thousand years ago to support their points, both seeming to be historically illiterate to the true state of what happened back in those days, be it by cynical refusal to accept that Celestia and Luna are different nowadays or blind loyalty born from a thousand years of propaganda. Rubbing her eyes, she turned up as the representative from Vanhoover mentioned her name.

“Then why is it that whenever Princess Somnia does something, she’s given a pass like it’s perfectly acceptable? She hasn’t even had a coronation yet! If I didn’t know better, I would say the princesses are biased toward her because she is a close family member. It is nepotism, just like with many of the lords and counts of Canterlot!”

“Excuse me, but that is uncalled for!” Fancy Pants said offended from next to Cadance. “The aristocracy of Canterlot isn’t as corrupt as many ponies believe it to be.”

“I have to agree with my friend here. Princess Somnia has thrown a bit of a wrench in things around Equestria.” The Manehattan representative looked to Celestia. “It ain’t normal for a princess to pop outta nowhere and be immediately given such authority. Hay, even when Princess Cadance came around, she didn’t really do much except attend social events, let alone give a militaristic speech in front of a bunch of angry ponies.”

“May I speak to your concerns?” Celestia asked both of the representatives. The Manehattan one nodded with a grateful grin, but the Vanhoover one didn’t. Based on her emotions from Somnia’s point-of-view, she took offense to it.

“Princess Somnia is being treated different because she wished to be treated different. While it is true for all to see that she is still very young, she is also mature beyond her years. I’ve reviewed a very well researched budget proposal from her about constructing an electrical grid across the entire nation. While it wasn’t to my standards, it was one that gave me second thoughts about her position as a Princess of Equestria.”

She nodded to Cadance. “And Princess Cadance didn’t wish to be involved with much of the large tasks that came with running Equestria. After coronating her as Princess of the Crystal Empire in the wake of its return, she changed her attitude in that regard.”

“That still doesn’t answer my concern about how fast you let her influence the nation. We barely even know about her and she’s already got a personal guard, making promises left-and-right!” The Vanhoover representative pointed out.

“We have mentioned this in the press conferences previously–“ Celestia turned down to Somnia as the filly put her hoof on her leg. “Princess Somnia would like to address that one.”

“You want to know why they gave me authority so quick?” The filly spoke up, back straightened and head held high. “It’s because I’m not an ordinary pony. I’m the Grand Councilor of Harmony, a direct daughter of the Ascended themself–“

“Again with this religious nonsense! We’re not a theocracy like some backwater griffon kingdom! I don’t care if you are a ‘Grand Councilor’ of sugar, spice, and everything nice! I want to know why we should trust that you can help run the nation at such a young age!” The representative glared at her. “Tell us the real reason you are a princess. We all know the stories of the other four alicorns, so what about you? How did you earn your princesshood?”

The filly got up from her chair and hopped straight up onto the stage, shocking the representative at the single leap. Somnia turned back to the crowd. “You don’t believe my faith is true. I understand that. But even you must admit that what I have done in such a short time has been well beyond what can be considered ordinary by other foals my age. I was born an alicorn, my mom was a princess of the Harmonic Empire, and I was granted the title by birthright. The only thing which gave the royal family legitimacy was Excalion and the archimage’s selection–“

“And who are these ponies, anyway? You keep talking about them, but we don’t have any proof they exist!”

Somnia glanced up to the pillar Excalion was on, her wing motioning that she would not get involved. “With the Equestria Games of 689 in Tall Tale, Excalion stopped the griffon attack against Princess Celestia after she informed the guard of their movements. In 827, Excalion beached the yeti from the southern Lunar Sea after she destroyed their ship masts, giving time for the Equestrian Royal Guard to move into position to defend the coastline against their raid. She IS real, and she has helped Equestria longer than anypony has lived, including the regal sisters.”

“That’s just baseless speculation! Those were so long ago that even if she helped, how would we even be able to tell?” The representative countered. Somnia considered what else she could do, but both Grar and Excalion didn’t want to get involved. There was no other choice but to force them to believe her.

Somnia, are you sure you know what you’re doing? Grar asked within her mind.

I’m sure there is no good way out of this that doesn’t involve my magic. They won’t believe me unless I do something drastic like back in Hollow Shades, but I don’t want to.

“Princess Celestia, Princess Cadance, you gotta admit that this is going too far. Why can’t you just tell us the truth?”

“Because the truth is too much for you right now!” Celestia snapped back. “We expect the ponies of Equestria to trust that the princesses know what’s in their best interests, as we have for a thousand years. Somnia is a solution to an old problem, one which has no other solution. Her disappearance marked the end of tens-of-thousands of years of prosperity, and her reemergence has marked the beginning of a new era for all ponies. It may not seem like it right now, but she is the best hope we have against the threats facing our nation.”

“I’m still having a hard time believing that.” The mare narrowed her eyes at the regal sister. “I’ve spoken with many of the nobles here in Canterlot, and they all say the same thing: She’s a public menace that does whatever she feels like. Here in Equestria, we have laws! Why isn’t she bound to the same restrictions that you are?”

“You want the truth?” Somnia turned on the mare. “Do you really want to know the truth?”

“I want you to give us a reason to trust you!”

“Fine!” Somnia turned to the crowd, about to extend her wings, when Twilight opened the door on the other side of the room. “Mom?”

“Somnia, can I have a word with you?” The Princess of Friendship called out for her, the crowd turning to face her. The filly hopped down from the stage and cantered over, much to the smugness of the representative on the stage.

“See! She has nothing! It’s all been another big lie!” The representative added while Somnia trotted from the room with her mother, growling to herself.

The two went down the hallway before talking. “Som...” Twilight leaned down to hug her daughter. “I’m so sorry about all of this. This entire summit has been a mess. I hoped to bring ponies together, not drive them apart.”

“What happened with you?”

“I was in the meeting about thestral reintegration. It...” She shook her head, fighting back tears. “They wouldn’t listen, they didn’t want to listen. There was that one representative from the Griffish Isles. They shouted her down after agreeing with Hollow Shades.” Twilight let out a shaky sigh. “I-I don’t know what to do. Everything’s gone to Tartarus. Equestria was a land of peace and harmony, but now...”

The filly sunk into her mother’s embrace. Nearly every meeting today had the same theme: The age of peace and unanimous cooperation Celestia supposedly brought about was over. The cycle of society was returning to hard times, as Grar taught her so long ago.

“Mom.” Somnia pushed a bit from her so that she could stare into her mother’s eyes. “It may get hard from here on out. But I promise: One day, it will be harmonious again.”

From down the hallway, Luna approached with a freshly brewed cup of coffee in her magic, sipping disinterestedly, while the doors nearest to them opened and Cadance walked out shaking her head. Both princesses stopped at Twilight and Somnia, both possessing frowns of the defeated.

“I can’t believe this is Equestria.” Cadance sighed. “They demand an explanation, but anything we give isn’t good enough.” The Crystal City representative left the meeting room and galloped over to the group.

“I’m so sorry about all of this, princess.” She apologized. “I-I didn’t know the others would be–“

“It’s alright, Shiver, I know.” Cadance placed a comforting hoof on the mare’s shoulder. “Please give me a few minutes with the others. I’ll be over for the scientific discoveries conference shortly.”

Once the mare left, Luna spoke. “All of this because my damn sister didn’t want to listen to me.”

“She ran the nation alone for a thousand years, I’m sure the thestrals–“ Twilight stopped as Luna shook her head.

“I’m talking about Somnia.” The Princess of the Night turned to the filly. “I told her to leave you be, to let you live a normal life for a few more years, but she wanted nothing more than to get you prepared for rulership. And look what it’s brought: division, confusion, and fear. It was too much change for Equestria too soon, and now we all have to face it together.”

“Luna? What exactly is a Grand Councilor?” Cadance asked uncertain. “After all this time, I still don’t understand what they are or why you think they are important.”

“Something far more complicated than I could reasonably explain.” The regal sister nodded with clear disappointment. “I have many regrets about what my sister and I have done, Somnia. I can only hope you can forgive me for not seeing the true severity of our errors sooner.”

“Maybe.” The filly lightly smiled to Luna. “One day, I’ll forgive you. And I know you’ll earn that redemption, because you’ve already made the first step.”

Twilight turned to the equally confused Cadance, receiving a shrug. The four princesses made their way back toward the main hall, stopping in front of the statue. From what Somnia had learned, each stone was a city or town, each enchanted to connect to the statue in only one way. Removing one that wasn’t an end piece would cause the entire thing to collapse. Only together would it be whole.

“This statue was meant to serve as a reminder that we all play our part in making Equestria what it is.” Cadance ruminated. “That no matter how big or how small, their contribution to our great nation is important. I remember when I was growing up, our town exported mana crystals from the mines to be processed one town over. They would supply different parts of Equestria with lights and magical devices. Mom and dad worked in the mines for ten hours every day just to make enough to live.” She cast her vision over to Luna, eyes shimmering. “Has it always been like this? How have I never seen it before?”

“Each of us is out-of-touch with the everyday concerns of ponies. I grew up as royalty, only seeing the truth of how things were for a brief time before being roped back into my duties.” Luna answered, turning to the purple alicorn. “Twilight Sparkle, my sister took you on as a student from a very young age. Your parents themselves were well-off comparatively, separated from the issues plaguing certain parts of Canterlot. Ponyville itself is one of the more profitable towns in Equestria, and has a social support system which works based on community, rather than the institutions of Canterlot.”

“Excalicorn was different.” Somnia spoke, her eyes moving along the different gemstones. “While we had institutions to help ponies out, we also trusted them with a great degree of personal responsibility. Often friends or family would intervene when somepony needed help, but in a city of millions, there were always those who slipped through the cracks. The rest of the continent wasn’t as nice. They divided themselves by what kind of pony they were, and it was only after mom and dad got together did that change. I never really saw just how bad it got except in my dreams.”

All societies have their dividers, their failures. Grar added. The greatest failure of my homeworld came from the lack of care. While we lived in a utopia beyond your wildest imagination, it was all an act. Beneath it all, we were empty. I had a friend which threw themselves into a gravitational singularity if only to feel something, and another who ended it all by being contained within stasis until the end of everything. Technology doesn’t give you fulfillment, a lesson we never learned. Equestria isn’t like that. Equestria has a heart. But this statue is heartless.

Each of the ponies continued to stare at the statue for another few minutes in silence. Cadance leaned her head onto Luna’s shoulder and Twilight put a wing around Somnia in the meantime, each content to bubble in their own thoughts. Eventually, Luna gave a deep sigh.

“This is what my mother meant by family is everything. No matter how bad things may look, no matter how painful life may be, as long as you have family, you will suffer through it together until the bitter end.”

“Ponies look for a cause to believe in.” Twilight continued. “I saw it in Starlight’s Village, and live it in Ponyville. It’s their friends and family, those they can trust to Tartarus and back.” She smiled down at her daughter. “That’s what gives them fulfillment. With purpose, they are at home anywhere. That’s the real magic. To me, it’s friendship, and it can be many things to different ponies.”

“One of the seven tenants of ‘The Cyclical Truth’.” Celestia said from behind them, getting their attention. Only a few representatives were with her: The Griffish Isles, Hollow Shades, Vanhoover, and Ponyville. Each one looked like they were also thinking about what they said.

“That’s why you care so much about Somnia, isn’t it?” Twilight stared into her mentor’s eyes. “You believe she will bring purpose to others.”

“I don’t just believe it.” The regal sister walked up to the other side of Somnia and laid her wings over both sets of alicorns. “I know it. My mother waited thousands of years to see that glimmer of hope return, to see her fillyhood friend, to fill the gap left behind by millennia of apathy. I’ve tried my best these past thousand years, but I can only do so much. She’s the solution to the problem we’ve been having for so long. What Excalicorn had that Equestria couldn’t even dream of having. Something to believe in that is both solid and true.”

Somnia swallowed, looking back up to the statue. Grar, Fae, Excalion, and the ponies of Hollow Shades all depended on her to be their undying beacon. In the sense of her magical prowess, it would become literal after another catalyst or two. She had read some letters to her mom from Hollow Shades. They psychologically saw her as the embodiment of hope, and it wouldn’t be until her powers developed further that she could reasonably give ponies that hope merely by existing. Ultimately, it was what the Grand Councilors of old gave to their respective societies.

It was never about power or money, or anything tangible. It was that path forward that was always available to them. They could choose to ignore it. They could do anything with their life and always know that there was a way for them to reach fulfillment. Hope in the darkest times, peace against the chaotic forces.

But for Celestia, she wasn’t a beacon. She was a tool. And the emotion behind the words told the story more than she ever would.

With a quick trot over to the door, Somnia opened it and hugged the knocker. “Dad!”

“Hey, kiddo.” He kissed her head, looking up to see Twilight sitting at the desk on the other side of the room, scribbling away. “Your mom busy?”

“Not right now!” The filly trotted back in to let him and Nightwind enter the suite. He walked over to the desk to see what she was writing, peeking over her shoulder until she finally paid attention to his presence. Once she put the black feathered quill into its ink well, she turned to look at him, biting her lip.

“Hey.”

“Hey yourself.” He gave a chuckle and pulled her into a quick hug. “Looks like the summit has been taking its toll. Been busy with the delegates?”

“Kinda.” She gave a sigh. “There’s been some unexpected things talked about the past three days, but I’m glad it’s over.”

“Unexpected how?”

“Not in the good sense. I don’t really want to get into it.” Her mouth tried ticking up, but the days still put a dampener on her mood. “Tired from the ride over?”

“It’s not even sunset. Nah, it was pretty good. Read one of those adventure novels you recommended on the way over.” He moved back out of the room, grabbing his and Nightwind’s bags to bring inside and setting them down next to the bed. “So we seeing the parents or what?”

“Um, yeah. I guess there’s still daylight to burn.” Twilight turned over to her faithful assistant, who was reading his comics in bed. “Are you coming, Spike?”

“No thanks. I’ll see them at the wedding.” He dismissively waved, too engrossed in his comic book to even turn to her. It stung Twilight a little to see him so upset, but he had been like that since the start of the summit. She’d have to follow-up after they got back.

The four briefly got ready before setting off into the city of Canterlot. They walked through the streets, a few passersby waving at them, although Twilight sparingly waved back. As they walked, she set her head down on her husband’s shoulder and closed her eyes. Compared to the summit, meeting her parents was going to be a breeze now that she had her special somepony.

The family arrived at the house about half-an-hour later, at which point Twilight disentangled herself from her husband before knocking on the door. She hoped they were home. Well, they should be, since they essentially lived off their investments.

Velvet opened the door after a minute, grinning at her daughter before casting her gaze to Duskwing. “Twilight! I-I wasn’t expecting you! Please, come in!” She stepped aside to allow the four entry. Closing the door behind them, Velvet trotted over to the stairs to yell up to her husband while the four others got comfy in the living room on the big couch. Somnia snuggled into Nightwind, the colt snuggling back to comfort his marefriend.

A minute later, Night Light came trotting down and sat on the love seat, anxiously flicking his eyes between Twilight and Duskwing while his wife made some tea.

“Sooo... how was the summit?” He finally asked.

“It went alright, I suppose.” Twilight didn’t want to tell him the truth. She herself was still coming to terms with what had happened in the last two days. The yelling, the fights, the unamused grumbles of some ponies. It wasn’t one or two of the delegates. Nearly half weren’t terribly enthusiastic to be attending. There were, of course, the pro-monarchist elements, such as the delegate from Manehattan, but there were also a few who were very vocal about their displeasure with the princessdom.

“That’s good to hear.” He nodded as Velvet returned with a steaming kettle and some cups. Once she had poured every pony a cup of tea, she took her place next to her husband and smiled widely at their daughter.

“Care to introduce us?” She asked with visible excited agitation.

Twilight sipped from her cup before answering. “Mom, dad, this is Duskwing. He’s my coltfriend, and fiance.”

“I think we’re past that.” The thestral chuckled. “I was her former husband back when Somnia was around.”

“So you’re her dad?” Night Light asked, receiving a nod from the batpony.

“Why didn’t you tell us earlier?” Velvet turned to Twilight. “It would have been nice to meet him before we had to learn about it from the newspaper.”

“We didn’t initially plan to get married.” Twilight admitted, taking another sip of her tea. Still too hot. “But Somnia let out that we were planning to marry after we had only been on one date, and then all the stuff with Tirek and the Equestria Games happened, and...” She let out a sigh. “I’m sorry I didn’t visit sooner to tell you.”

“It’s alright, Twily. As long as you’re happy, we’re happy.” Night Light reassured.

“How did you two meet?” Her mother asked, continuing to push for information as she typically did.

“Funny story that.” Duskwing put his wing around Twilight. “I actually had come to Canterlot to advocate for getting additional funding for Hollow Shades and other bat communities.”

“That didn’t leave the best impressions.” Twilight gently smiled at him. “Really, it was at the aerial competition tryouts. He was competing for Hollow Shades, I was there to cheer on Ponyville, and Somnia was there to set us up.”

“Yup!” The filly said without a single ounce of restraint.

“I read you had yelled at him. Something about trying to poison Somnia?” Night Light asked.

“I did, but what I didn’t know was that Somnia’s dad was part thestral.” Twilight giggled. “It’s a little silly looking back. I probably should have asked her why she liked to eat meat.”

“You laugh about it now, but back then I was genuinely worried that I had been setup to be arrested again.” Duskwing turned back to the parents. “Not that it would have been any more valid than the first time.”

“You were arrested?” Night Light furrowed his brow, turning to his equally concerned wife.

“Yeah, he’s a hardened criminal with all that community service he had to do after assaulting a royal guard.” Twilight rubbed her husband’s chest.

The parents gave them both a quizzical gaze, but Velvet left it be. “When was your first date? The tryouts weren’t that long ago.”

“Technically, it was supposed to be the Traders Exchange in Rainbow Falls, but it really was the royal visit to Hollow Shades.” Twilight continued. “I got to know what life was like for him and the other batponies. We talked, and after the speeches, we spent some quality time together.”

“She’s a bit of a nerd when it comes to architecture.” Duskwing smirked to his bride who rolled her eyes. “Anyway, after that we met up at the Traders Exchange for our first official date.”

“Then I wanted to talk to him at the Equestria Games, but...” She let out a sigh. “He was hurt trying to protect me. I was so worried about him. I-I didn’t know if he would live.”

“I wouldn’t die on you to raise our foal alone.” He rubbed under her wing. “Wouldn’t be a dutiful husband, now would I?”

“Twilight, and I mean no offense, Duskwing, but isn’t it too soon to get married?” Velvet asked, concerned. “It’s only been about two months since the tryouts. Seems like you may be rushing this a little.”

Twilight smiled back at her parents, laying her head on Duskwing’s shoulder, prepared for the next part. “It isn’t just that. We used to be married a long time ago, that’s true, and what few memories of back then tell us this is both right, but there’s a bit more.” She sighed, content to get this out of the way. “I’m pregnant.”

Night Light spit his tea out as Velvet’s jaw dropped. “B-But- when?! What?!” Night Light sputtered out.

When Velvet only covered her mouth, Twilight continued. “I’ve known for less than a week now. Nopony else knows except for Spike, but I won’t be able to keep it a secret forever. I wanted you to be the first to know, well, if Somnia hadn’t already spoiled the rest of our little family on the secret, including me.”

“Sorry?” The filly slyly shrugged.

“I-I’m going to be a grandma?” Velvet excitedly squealed. “To think, I was expecting Shining Armor to be the first!”

“Well, congratulations!” Night Light rubbed the tea off of himself. “I’m glad that you’ve found somepony you were willing to trust.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Twilight playfully squinted at her now nervous father. “Did you not trust me to get a coltfriend?”

“N-No, it’s just that I, uh, didn’t think you were looking, that’s all!” He defended.

“Well, I have one now, and we’re going to be a proper couple.” Twilight nuzzled into Duskwing’s neck. “I admit, I enjoy having somepony around to help Spike out with the chores.”

“So w-who’s this?” Night Light turned to Nightwind. “Are they also staying with you?”

“This is Nightwind.” Duskwing patted the colt’s head. “He’s my nephew. I’ve taken care of him since he was born.”

“Oh, I thought you may have adopted somepony.” Velvet turned back to her husband briefly. “Do you two know when the wedding will be?”

“Actually...” Duskwing smiled to a curious Twilight. “I was thinking closer to the end of this month. Something small, close family and friends only.”

“Hmm... I like that idea.” Twilight chimed in. “Before the pregnancy shows, and keep it personal.”

“And we’re invited?” Velvet’ sly expression told her daughter what she was really looking for.

“Of course! I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Twilight got up from the couch to hug both of her parents.

Letting out a breath onto the plate metal, Somnia saw the sigils light up briefly before fading. Since arriving back in Ponyville a few days prior, she had thrown herself into her work. The first layer of the armor was coming along much faster now that she could manipulate localized material. It still wasn’t precise enough to accomplish what she needed for the armor, but it was enough to produce the metals she was going to use in the production.

Trotting back over to the automated assembly line, she quickly checked the test item she put through it. Defect on molding. Needs adjustment in code or mold. She mused to Grar.

Does it need to be perfect? Good enough isn’t bad.

Good enough is the bare minimum. It’s not worth starting over from scratch, but I’m not happy with using it. She trotted back over to the smelter and began tearing apart the test object, tossing the metal bits back into the smelter tray. The plastics she left in the ‘waste’ bin for later recycling. The first tier of armor was practically complete, only needing a few last adjustments and assembly before being usable.

Besides the leg sleeves she made with the concealed energy pistols and watches, the armor camouflaged to the same color as the fur or feathers on the creature and to display the cutie mark on the outside. Unless you looked closely at a distance, they would just look like normal ponies, but up close, you could see the surrounding distortion. She meant it as a light layer, one capable of blocking stabs and light magical bolts against the easier-to-hit sections such as the legs or body.

She spent the next hour adjusting the code on the computer to fix the error in molding, realizing that it was the mold itself that was also a problem.

“Somnia!” Twilight called out from the front area. “Where are you at?”

“Control!” she yelled back.

Twilight trotted around the central machine over to where the filly was typing away at the computer. Within the mirror, Twilight could see a shimmer around her reflection that didn’t trail her movements. The copy smiled and waved to Twilight as she walked over to her daughter, slightly perturbing her.

“You’ve been busy.”

“Yeah.” She sighed, finishing a few last taps on the keyboard before hopping down and trotting past her mother toward the alchemy lab. “A lot of work to do.”

“Have you slept anytime recently? I don’t think I’ve seen you sleep once since I gave you that stone.”

“I’ve napped, but I don’t need sleep anymore.” She smiled over her shoulder. “I have something for you.”

“Oh?” Twilight followed along into the alchemy lab, which looked more like a professional lab from a research institute. Opening one of the five fridges, Somnia took out a tray filled with various pills and vials with liquids in them.

“I made this for you. It’ll help with the pregnancy symptoms and is beneficial for my sibling too.” She pointed to one of the marked sections. “Take the liquid in the morning and the pills at dinner. I’ve made enough for this week and can keep making this until the two-month mark.”

“And after then?” Twilight examined the tray’s contents curiously.

“After then, I need to figure out something different.” She bit her lip in thought, thinking about it for about two minutes her time which amounted to about two seconds. “Alright, I think I have a good idea what to do.”

“And you’re sure this is safe?” Twilight turned up to her daughter as she trotted over to the different equipment around the lab. “Has this been scientifically tested?”

“Does water need to be scientifically tested to make sure it’s safe if you’ve literally boiled it to purity?” She turned back to her mother. “I’ve made every precaution and Grar has done the ingredient calculus to ensure it’s safe. It’s about as harmless as eating cleaned and chopped carrots.”

“Alright, I believe you. I just don’t want my foal to be hurt, that’s all.”

“I wouldn’t dare dream of hurting them.” Somnia went back to checking different parts of the lab. “It’s meant to help with early pregnancy symptoms and increase your overall nutrition. You can get the same stuff over the counter at the pharmacy, but this is healthier and much cheaper.”

“So should I take the pills for today or...?” Twilight picked up one of the pill cups in her magic to examine it closer, wincing slightly at the sudden headache.

“No, wait until tomorrow morning to start.” She stopped was she was doing to look back at her mother. “Hmm... That’s going to be a problem, actually.”

“What’s a problem?” Twilight asked as she put the cup back down.

The filly trotted back over, checking different parts of her mother’s face. “That. You have the same condition you did back then.” She poked a specific spot on the side of Twilight’s horn.

“Ow! What are you doing?” She flinched back at the unusual pain from her horn.

“Showing you the problem.” Somnia sighed. “Your magic will need to be disabled for the pregnancy.”

“I’ve never heard of a condition requiring unicorn horns to be disabled during pregnancy.” Twilight reached up and touched the same spot, pain shooting through her horn into her skull. “I-Is it bad?”

“If you use a lot of magic, yes.” She walked over to a high-stool and sat down to face her mother at eye-level. “I stumbled on it when researching the medications. It also means that we can’t do the weapon demonstration that Luna and I wanted to do. It would be too much magic coursing through your horn.”

“W-What’s wrong with it?” Twilight pulled up a short stool to her daughter to have a seat. “Is it dangerous?”

“Again, only if you use magic.” Somnia turned Twilight’s head slightly, checking the horn. “Unicorn-type alicorns are prone to develop this condition during pregnancy, and you are a unicorn, pegasus, and seapony mix like you probably were back then. It is a mold that forms in your horn that strengthens the more magic you use. We can treat it after you give birth, but it also means no using magic for nearly a year until it goes away.”

“No magic for a year...” Twilight took in the information, letting out a breath to handle the notion. “I-Is there anything we can do to lesson its effect? So I can at least levitate things?”

Somnia shook her head. “Even with what we had in Excalicorn, any procedure or medication risks the foal’s life or yours. Sorry, but no magic for the next year. I’ll look up the medication plan from the hard-copy drives I collected so I can reproduce it for after you give birth.”

“I-I don’t know what to say.” Twilight held her head in her hooves. “I-If I didn’t–“

“It would likely die out over time, but that may take years without using magic.” Somnia shrugged. “The doctors would have told you to stop using magic after you noticed the increased pain from casting. I’m just here to make sure we deal with it sooner than then, but one year is the minimum unless you... well, I don’t think you’d want to do anything like that.”

“I wouldn’t even dream of it.” Twilight sighed, turning back up to her. “Thanks for telling me this. Can you write some information for the doctor so that they can prescribe me a medical-grade magic canceling ring?”

“Sure.” She hopped down from her stool and trotted over to the computer to tap away, checking the other data-slates until she found the right one after searching five. A few seconds later, the machine next to the computer printed the information on a sheet of paper. She took the page back over to her planning desk to write her own translation, Twilight watching carefully from over Somnia’s shoulder.

“Is it a direct translation?”

“No, I’m paraphrasing.”

“Can you teach me your language?”

“Already working on a curriculum.”

“You really have been busy.”

“I have twenty-four hours of productivity available. I find things to do at night.” She hoofed both sheets over to Twilight, who quickly skimmed the translated sheet. A brief description of the affliction, no magic until soft spots and discoloration go away, a list of incompatible medications and ‘treatments’, Somnia will watch its progression and medicate after birth. Simple, sweet, and to the point.

“Thank you for telling me about this.” Twilight gave her daughter a hug. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“You’d get horn cramps and go see the doctor.” Her daughter shrugged a hoof, hugging her mother back. “And if you weren’t careful, your horn would blow up, sending a magical backlash directly into your brain, potentially killing you or giving permanent brain damage.”

“Okay, yeah, I can see why it’s a problem.”

“So, why did you come down here in the first place?” Somnia asked as Twilight broke off the hug.

“Oh, I came to tell you the Yakyakistan prince will arrive shortly. Don’t you want to meet them?”

Somnia shrugged indifferently, following her mother back upstairs to where the other elements had been busy setting up the entrance hall. Twilight bit her lip as she watched the door, the other elements finishing their preparations before standing next to her.

“You look nervous. There’s no reason to be nervous. Nothing to worry about. Everything’s going to be fine!” Twilight smiled at Pinkie Pie, the nervousness leaking from the faltering expression.

“Twilight, tell those butterflies in your tummy to beat it! Making new friends is always fun!” Pinkie exclaimed.

Twilight took a few deep breaths to calm down, her friends watching curiously while Somnia sat next to Rarity unamused.

“Mom, the yaks are one of the three native species of the Crystal Expanse. They value strength and tradition above all. There is literally nothing about you right now that screams either.” She deadpanned, adding to Twilight’s nervousness.

“You’re right. I need to keep calm and not panic.” She gave a nervous laugh. “Keep calm. Keep calm... AHH!” She flinched as Spike began playing the trumpet next to the doors shortly before they opened to unfurl a literal red carpet. The prince’s guards stepped forward first, moving aside for the prince himself.

“Ponies! Greetings, ponies!” The prince yelled out. Twilight was about to teleport when Somnia grabbed her leg, shaking her head. Casually walking over to the prince, Twilight donned her best attempt at a diplomat’s expression.

“Prince Rutherford, your majesty. On behalf of all of us, I welcome you to Equestria.” Twilight gave a bow.

“Me honored. Yaks hope for great friendship between ponies and yaks.” Somnia covered her ears for the oncoming assault. “Friends for a thousand moons!”

The princess rubbed her ears for a brief moment, Twilight smiling back at them. “You must be hungry after the long journey.” Spike pushed in from the side a table containing many yakky foods. “We’ve prepared a banquet of traditional yak foods.”

“Oh, no.” Somnia let loose a groan, Rarity looking at her confused.

“If things not perfect, yaks get mad. Yaks always get mad when things not perfect!” He went to the table, taking a bite before spitting it out. “This no taste like yak food! Fake pony food make yaks mad!”

He flipped the table and the three yaks began making a mess of the entrance hall while Twilight backed up to her friends.

“Is it okay to be nervous now?” Pinkie asked as they trashed more of the hall.

“Mom.” Somnia got up and trotted over to her mother. “If they hurt you or somepony in town, come get me. I’ll deal with them.” The filly walked back toward her lab while the yaks continued their rampage.

Dusty held still while Somnia arranged the plates on the armor. She needed to figure out the exact manner in which they would take the armor on and off, something that would be easy for the guards without being a structural weakness. Small locking sigils were probably still the best option.

“You almost finished back there, or are you going to keep appreciating my tail?” Dusty let out a nervous chuckle.

“Almost done.” She finished the measurements. “Back plate or no back plate? With one, you have to drop it whenever you have to pee.”

“I’ll go with a back plate. Don’t want any unwanted gazing.” Dusty shuffled on her hooves as Somnia made some more measurements closer to her marehood.

“The teats are going to be interesting to work around.” Somnia laid back on a wheelie board and rolled underneath Dusty. “Are they particularly sensitive to touch or pressure?”

“A little, but not much more than anypony else.”

Somnia began prodding them, adding to Dusty’s discomfort. “Would you be comfortable with this much pressure?”

“Y-Yeah, probably. Is it really necessary?”

“For the best protection, yes.” The filly rolled back out and faced her guard. “That was all. Thank you for coming. I would recommend teat-guards when you’re in your armor to prevent rubbing the nipple.”

“Alright.” She coughed. “I’ll, um, go get some.”

Somnia didn’t even watch Dusty disarm before returning to her design table. The underside was the least protected, designed for mobility and maneuverability over defense. Her newest design was to include flexible plastic plates to redirect projectiles so that pointy things like branches didn’t poke them underneath with impunity.

“Somnia!” Twilight came rushing in. “I need your help!”

“Did they hurt somepony?” She glanced up, disinterested.

“No, but they might! They said they’re going to declare war on us!”

Somnia chortled at the idea. “T-That’s it?”

“What?” Twilight took a physical step back. THAT wasn’t the response she expected. “W-What do you mean ‘that’s it’?!”

“Mom, they don’t have magic or technology beyond basic metallurgy. They pose next to no threat, even for the royal guard to handle.” She sighed. “But may as well stop them before they hurt themselves.”

She followed her mother back above ground, making their way toward the train station where the yaks were waiting. The sunshine was nice to feel on her face, turning the corners of her mouth up. Maybe I should take mom up on more offers to get away.

“How’s the party planning coming along?”

“I haven’t checked yet, but are you sure you can get them to reconsider staying for a bit longer?” She provided a nervous smile.

“Yeah, that’s pretty easy. Go check on the party. I’ll give them a good talking to.” She continued forward without her mother to the train station.

“Where is train? It should be here!” The prince complained as he continued to check both directions along the track.

“Delayed due to sheep migrations.” Somnia called out, getting the attention of the yaks.

“What you want, pony?”

“Just pony? Not princess?” She trotted straight up to the prince. “I challenge you to a hoof-wrestle. If I win, you stay for another couple of hours. If you win, I’ll let you go without further issue.”

“Ha! Pony thinks they can beat yak in hoof-wrestle! Good joke!” The prince laughed along with the others. “What can pony do yak can’t?”

“I could kill you where you stand.” She smirked, the yak’s mouth forming into a snarl. “What? Are you too afraid to prove that yaks are stronger than ponies?”

“You’re on, pony!” The two moved over to the train station bench and started positioning their hooves for the contest. One guard kept chuckling at the absurdity of it.

“Ready, go!” The prince put his entire might into trying to push down Somnia’s hoof, but she held firm. While defeating the prince would have been incredibly easy with her new powers, she tried to make it look like they were more evenly matched. Straining her face muscles, producing droplets of water on her forehead, giving a bit of ground occasionally. They kept at it for several minutes until the prince got tired, at which point Somnia slowly began pushing his hoof back.

The guards were watching in awe as this pony, a mere foal, was actually beating the prince. Once their hooves were close enough, Somnia made the prince’s hoof impact the bench with a gentle thud. Breathing out heavily, both contestants stared each other down.

“You... strong... pony...” Prince Rutherford breathed out.

“Not so bad... yourself.” Somnia half-laughed, half-huffed. The entire thing was for show, but it had the intended effect.

“We’ll stay... few more hours...” The prince gave a hearty laugh. “Who are you?”

“I’m... Princess Twilight’s daughter. Queen of Equestria, Somnia Temporus.” She got back up onto her hooves. “It was nice to meet you, Prince Rutherford. I hope you will give the party a chance to change your mind about going to war.”

“We’ll see.” He chuckled, getting back onto his own hooves with a smile. Somnia waved back to him as she trotted toward the town hall where the party was set to take place. With the honor-culture of the yaks, and the spirit of good competition, they were likely to hold up their end of the bargain without complaint even if the sheep migrations did not delay them.

Upon reaching the square, she could already see Pinkie Pie getting to work on setting it up as planned, Twilight nervously pacing back-and-forth.

“Hey, mom!” Somnia trotted over. “Looks like the party is going well.”

“Somnia!” She ran over and hugged her daughter. “I came to the station to see what you were doing, and–“

“I won. Don’t worry, they’re delayed anyway if it wasn’t for the bet I made with them. They’re willing to give the party a chance.”

“Thank Celes–“ She brought a hoof to her mouth, both of them giggling at the slip-up. “Thank the Ascended.” She corrected.

From the side of the party, Somnia watched as the prince gave a great hug to Pinkie Pie in celebration of a job-well-done. Today had been productive, despite the interruptions. The first tier of armor was coming along nicely, and it wouldn’t be too long until she finished them.

“When were you going to tell me?” Celestia came from the side to sit down next to her. “Twilight still hasn’t.”

“I was going to let mom tell you. Her foal, her decision.”

The regal sister blinked a few times, staring at the filly in surprise. “Twilight’s pregnant?”

“Oh.” Somnia giggled. “You meant the other thing.”

“Yes, the other thing. You and your new powers.” Celestia playfully squinted at her. “I suspected you had been holding out on me for the past few weeks. Are they slowly coming to you, or all at once?”

“I’m using something to speed it up, and it’s working.” Somnia turned up to her. “No more foalnappings for me.”

“I certainly would hope not.” Celestia turned to the incoming prince. “Did you enjoy my former student’s hospitality, Prince Rutherford?”

“Yes. Ponies now friends with yaks. Queen very strong. Didn’t know Equestria had queen.”

“She’s not queen yet, but will be one day.” Celestia petted Somnia’s mane. “I’m sure you can understand why we would give her such a responsibility.”

“You should come to Yakyakistan. Plenty of challengers!” The prince laughed, shaking hooves with the queen-to-be. “It good meeting you. May we have peace for a thousand moons!“

Author's Note

I'm a little worried about the content of this chapter. I tried cutting back on the preachy-ness of it. Please tell me if it's a little heavy and I'll make some edits.

Chapter 30: Plans for the Future

A few droplets from the stray rain clouds above matted the filly’s fur as she stood over the patch of dirt. It had been weeks since the plot was dug, and the grass regrew over where the soil was disturbed, only a small series of rocks denoting it. Those who traveled into the Everfree Forest wouldn’t recognize it as anything out of the ordinary, hiding the grim nature of the light mound of dirt.

As she bent down to place the flowers she had brought, Somnia let go the breath she was holding with a deep sigh. “I’m sorry this happened to you. We all make choices in life, and we both made ours.”

“A little hollow when you think about it.” Dusty muttered from the clearing entrance next to Shield.

“Hollow only if I didn’t feel bad about it.” She stood back up and stared back down at the grave. “I don’t know who they were, or what life they lived, only that their life was taken on my orders. They were only following their own, and hadn’t hurt anypony as far as I am aware.” Somnia turned back to her two additional companions. “Taking a life should never be done lightly, even if it is a necessity.”

“We have their things ready for inspection back at the castle, if you’re finally up to ending this chapter.” Shield said as his queen walked back toward them.

“Yeah. Let’s get this over with.” She led them back out of the Everfree Forest toward the town, passing the cheerful ponies contrasting the sour mood between the three of them. If Celestia read the letter she sent, the chariot would arrive shortly. The trio entered the castle, making their way to the guard’s ‘break room,’ Shield taking out a box and placing it down in front of Somnia. Quickly sifting through the contents, she sighed at the picture of them and their special somepony together, both smiling without a care in the world. Corporeal Geode Mason of the Lunar Guard Special Operations division, killed in action doing what they believed was in the interests of Equestria.

Somnia put the items back inside the box and sealed it shut, Shield carrying it with them as they went back outside the castle. The gilded chariot had indeed arrived, along with Princess Luna as requested.

“Somnia, care to explain why you wanted me awake so early in the day?” She asked with both annoyance and tiredness in her voice.

“We’re going to Bronclyn.” Somnia said as Shield put the box next to Luna and got on with the filly. “We have something we need to do.”

“I still don’t know why you needed me here. And what’s in the box?”

“Reminders.” Somnia answered at a lower volume before raising her voice again. “Guards, take us to Bronclyn as quick as possible.”

“Belay that order. Why did you wake me up?” Luna glared down at the foal.

“I told you to get your spies out of Ponyville. I mentioned three because I knew you had a fourth in deep cover. You didn’t get rid of them, so I did. Guards, to Bronclyn!”

The lunar princess scrunched up her face and turned from the young queen as the guards lifted them into the air toward their destination. The fields and forests of central Equestria passed beneath them, disrupted by a sporadic farmhouse or cottage among the wilderness. Canterlot passed by, Somnia sparing a quick glance at the support structure before it was already behind them.

A few hours of tense silence later, they touched down in front of the city hall, Shield entering inside to get the information they needed while leaving the two princesses to stew. Somnia looked around at the concrete and brick buildings that made the city, only able to see down the street in either direction until the street turned. It was pretty ugly, but she could see certain ponies enjoying the novelty.

“Why did you have to kill them?” Luna hissed through her teeth. “What compels a pony to kill another?”

“I don’t know. What compels a pony to plan and carry out a foalnapping?” Somnia turned her gaze up to Luna. “What compels a pony to let a foal be raped until they bled from their vagina? What compels--“

“I get it.” Luna put her hoof over Somnia’s mouth, closing her eyes at the mental imagery. “Just... let me handle this, alright?”

A few minutes later, Shield came out and showed the guards the address before they set off once again. Touching down in front of a small apartment block, Luna and Somnia dismounted with the box in the elder princess’ magic. They went to the third floor, down the hall to room 309.

Somnia didn’t hesitate to knock on the door, backing up a step to fall in line next to Luna. Neither turned their eyes from the door, both preparing for what was to come. A minute later a mare answered with a smile, one that quickly faded as she saw the saddened princesses.

“No... No. H-He promised...” She teared up, face scrunching up. “H-He s-said...”

“I’m so sorry.” Luna gave her the box. The mare didn’t even open it before falling onto her haunches, bawling into her hooves. Both princesses continued to stand as the mare wilted in front of them, falling to the ground as she let loose the grief, forming a small puddle for all she lost.

“H-How?” She looked up between the blubbers. “H-How did h-he...?”

“That’s classified. We can have his remains brought to Bronclyn so that he may be buried closer.” Somnia said as simple as possible.

“L-Leave me alone... I-I don’t want to see a-anypony...” She slammed the door shut, her crying only intensifying on the other side as she wailed for the loss of her lover.

Luna led Somnia back outside to the waiting chariot, both mounting into their seats. Once they took flight, she asked: “Where are they buried?”

“The Everfree Forest on the way toward your old castle. Small clearing, can’t miss it.” Somnia answered, taking a deep breath and closing her eyes. “Tell the team to inform Isirilas when they enter that they’re looking for the grave. They’ll show them to it.”

“They didn’t have to die.”

“They didn’t have to spy on me either.” She paused a moment to take a breath in through her nose. “I gave you a chance to save them, but you didn’t listen. And now, a pony is dead, and another is heartbroken.”

“What’s wrong with you?!” Luna snapped at her. “You order a pony killed and buried away in the forest for weeks without anypony knowing! They could have lived! You could have told them to leave town!”

“A message needed to be sent.” She turned her gaze back up to her fellow princess, voice as calm as the sunny skies above. “To you, and to Celestia. Leave me and my family alone. But maybe you will answer my question now: Why did you do it?”

“Why did I do what?! Spy on you?!”

“Why did you have me foalnapped and raped?” Somnia asked with as little venom as she could muster. It was difficult to hold back the emotions, the pulsating heat threatening to boil over from her chest, but she didn’t want to let them get the best of her.

Luna’s face turned a shade of deep red. “How dare you! How dare you suggest I would ever even consider doing something so vile and cruel to a foal!”

“Luna, I know about your instruction. ‘I don’t care what you do. As long as it isn’t permanent and you don’t kill her, break her however you see fit.‘“ She blinked back the forming tears. “I know you regret what they ended up doing because of your order. You don’t need to hide it from me. I already know the truth.”

The lunar princess turned away from Somnia, holding back her own tears. She kept silent for a minute as she mulled it over. There was no point in denying it, Somnia knew. “C-Can I tell you another time? I-I can’t look at you right now after what we just did.”

“Yes, you can have all the time from now until the end of the year. If you haven’t told me after that...” She left it open-ended for Luna to fill in, turning back to the forests that passed beneath them.

The rest of the flight passed in dead silence, much like the ride to Bronclyn. They landed back in Ponyville around dinner time, Somnia and Shield both dismounting and heading straight for the dining hall while Luna returned to Canterlot. The filly simply sat with her head on her hooves, staring to the kitchen doors where Shield prepared dinner, trying to sooth the burning sensation surrounding her heart.

“Heya, kiddo.” Duskwing trotted in with Nightwind. “You’re here for dinner early.”

“Nothing better to do.” She mumbled, keeping her eyes firm on the doorway.

“You alright? You look kinda sad.” Nightwind asked from next to her, putting a foreleg around her shoulders.

“I had to tell somepony their special somepony was dead. Yeah, I’m a little sad about that.”

“Yikes. Princess business?” Duskwing asked as he sat across from her.

“Kinda. But also closure.” She straightened up in her chair, clearing her throat to move hopefully onto another topic. “What have you two been up to today?”

“Uncle Duskwing was showing me how to write. It was super boring.” Nightwind let out a groan.

“But super important as well. You’re getting better, just need more practice.” He smiled over at his nephew for a moment before returning his attention to Somnia. “Hey, we were thinking after dinner that we could go swimming. Your mom’s out of town until tomorrow, so that’ll give us time to hang out a bit more. Sound fun?”

“Yeah, anything to take my mind off of earlier.” She gave a small smile back at her dad. Swimming. How bad could that be?

Ducking his head beneath the water, Duskwing saw Somnia was swimming through the water like a fish, using her wings and tail like flippers, hooves held to her body or together to maximize her aquadynamics. He poked back above and swam in her general direction, hoping to intercept her. The sun was falling toward the horizon already, and he didn’t want to swim when he couldn’t see both of the foals.

A splash of water made impact with his back from behind, the filly startling him with a hug. “I win!”

“Geez, don’t do that!” He yelled back as he disentangled from her. “How’d you learn to swim so well?”

“I’m part seapony, remember?” She said with the utmost pride. “It’s normal for me to swim well.”

“Well, isn’t your mother also part seapony? Why doesn’t she swim as well?” He asked as they waded back toward the shore where Nightwind had collapsed from exhaustion.

“She needs to cast a spell to access that part of her, but I’m a true alicorn! My wings, tail, and fur are perfectly suited for swimming.” She did a lap around him as he went. “It’s not surprising she didn’t know. I wonder if Luna knows she’s part seapony...”

“Well, we probably shouldn’t swim at night. It’s not easy to see underwater without goggles.”

“Aww. Okay.” She smirked on the pass around. “Wanna race to the shore?”

“You’d win by a landslide.” He let out a small laugh. “Alright, you’re on!”

“Three two one go!” She sped off, reaching the shore within seconds. “I win!”

“Yeah, you do.” He made his way over and got out next to her. He could see her tail had naturally parted into two fins, clumping itself together and smoothing out. The water also clumped her mane onto her body, and oddly wasn’t messy, the filly shaking the water off of her and onto him as her fur fluffed up. “Are you sure your special talent isn’t for competitive swimming?”

“Nah, that would be like yours being for hunting really well.” She giggled, heading over to her colt. “Nightly~! It’s time to go~!”

“Ugh.” He sat up. “Mental note, don’t challenge you on anything.”

“You’d never win.” Duskwing helped him up. “She cheats with her magic.”

“Does it look like my horn is working?” She pointed to the spike atop her head. Duskwing raised a brow and moved over to her, tilting her head slightly.

“You have a notch in the back of your horn. It’s like it’s--“

“Growing a second horn?” She giggled. “That’s my nature horn from being part kirin!”

“Huh. I’ve never seen a kirin before. I wonder what they look like.” He rubbed the back of her horn as he regarded the extra bit. Shifting his gaze onto her back, he could see a darker section of coat seemingly only revealed when wet or parted that ran from neck to tail. Actually, it became apparent now that the fur on her back was thin compared to elsewhere. Another kirin thing? He considered, although he didn’t have any examples of what a ‘kirin’ even was.

“Probably won’t see them for a while. They were very isolationist, even in Excalicorn.” She pawed at him. “I’m hungry. Wanna get a sunset snack?”

“Sure, why not?”

The three made their way over to The Hay Burger without delay, Duskwing getting the food while Somnia warmed up Nightwind at the table. Once Duskwing set down the food, the filly made no hesitation in grabbing her three hayburgers and extra large fries to consume them with vicious abandon. By the time he took his first bite, she had already eaten nearly half of her first burger.

“Damn, slow down. You’re going to choke on it if you keep going like that.”

“That’s what I said last weekend.” Nightwind provided a coy smile to his marefriend.

“That was because you were all stwessed out.” She pushed a hoof to his chest, swallowing another bite. “And you seemed to enjoy yourself.”

“What? You two already getting into that stuff?” Duskwing sipped from his cup of orange juice, a blush coming over his nephew’s face.

“She suggested it!” Nightwind pointed back at his lover. “A-And I wasn’t going to turn her down...”

“I’m not mad, y’know.” Duskwing shook his head, the smile on his face growing. “What you two do on your own time is up to you as long as you don’t get her pregnant. By Luna, that brings back memories...” He took a moment to think of one in particular. “I was a little older than you two, had gotten my cutie mark after helping the old hunt leader with organizing the next night’s route. His daughter, I forget her name, came on really strong. Probably in heat, don’t know, but she was really persistent. I ended up giving her a kiss, but she kept at it until I went back to her dad’s place to... help her, let’s say.”

“Oooo, what happened next?” Somnia asked, leaning forward.

“We spent some alone time kissing, touching, and eventually she turned her rear to me and shoved it in my face.” He laughed out loud. “Didn’t have a clue what to do next! Kept poking at it with my hoof until she gave me a quick demonstration. Anyway, we didn’t talk much after that. Her father grounded her and he banned me from assisting with the hunting team or even talking to her. She tried propositioning me when we were older, but I had moved on.”

“Aww, that’s not a good ending.” His daughter laid her head on her hooves.

“If you want a good ending, ask your mom about her first time.” He winked at the filly before turning back to his nephew. “But I want you to know it isn’t about the sex. Sure, the sex is a nice bonus, but it’s the comfort with one another that matters more. If you’re comfortable with somepony, and they’re comfortable with you, then that’s somepony you’ll want to hold on to.”

“Hmm...” the colt mused to himself while they finished eating. He poked the mustard on his plate with a hay fry before asking the question on his mind. “What is heat, anyway?”

“You know when all the stallions go camping around Nightmare Night?” His uncle’s grin expanded. “We’re avoiding the mares because that’s heat season for batponies. The husbands usually stick around if they want foals, but otherwise we bug out. Mares can have smaller heats throughout the year, usually every few months, but they are most fertile and active during heat season. I don’t know, maybe it’s some old leftover from our past.”

“I don’t get heat.” Somnia added. “Well, I don’t have a season, at least. I’m always in heat in one form or another!”

“That... explains a lot, actually.” Duskwing gave a brief chuckle. “Your mother said she was having trouble with her urges since becoming an alicorn.”

“Has she been enjoying them?” She stuck out the tips of her tongue with a suggestive grin.

“Since I got her pregnant, and she stopped taking the anti-heat pills, yeah, I think she has.”

“Eww.” Nightwind finished his fries. “Can we move on to another topic? I don’t want to hear anymore about you and my aunt rutting.”

“Hey, it’s a part of life. Gotta get used to it sometime.” Duskwing shrugged, finishing the last bite of his burger.

After realigning the plate, Somnia finished the strap work for the body, tugging on each to make sure they were snug. One down, four more to go. As she stepped back, she did one last look over her living poniquin. “Take it off and put it back on.”

Dawn undid the locks and remove the armor, all the while being carefully watched by Somnia. Once he slipped out of it, he slung it back over himself and reversed the process. Four minutes, two to take off, two to put on. Exactly how she expected it to be.

“Any problems? Pinching, too tight, too loose, or rubs wrong?” She walked around him and checked the different parts. All straps were done up underneath, plates how they were supposed to be...

“Nope. Much more comfortable than regular guard armor.” He moved one of his forelegs in a full motion. “Honestly, the guard could make use of armor this good if it’s better protection than our standard armor.”

“Probably not fancy enough.” She muttered as she checked around his neck. “You got it on as I showed you, and as long as you take it off and put it on as I showed, you shouldn’t have problems with it.”

“So, is it better protection?” He hit the front plate.

“Better coverage, stronger and lighter materials.” The filly stepped back. “Alright, take it off. I need to finish the enchantments on the locks so only you can undo them.”

He did as he was told, taking off the armor. “I guess I can’t have a boner while putting it on?” He chuckled, undoing the lower half straps.

“Not unless you don’t mind feeling very uncomfortable or pinching it.” She provided him a coy smile, her eyes running over his form as that momentary amusement faded. With a sigh: “I kinda miss having sex.”

“Why don’t you do it with Nightwind? Hay, why not somepony like Caramel? He’s probably horny enough to go with a filly.” Dawn finished taking off the armor and putting it on the stand, turning back to the frowning filly. “Still anxious?”

“Yeah...” she admitted, walking over to him. “I-I just can’t do it.”

“You can, but you feel you shouldn’t.” He leaned down, focusing his eyes on hers. “Do you want me to help? We can go slow, I’ll be gentle. Promise.”

“I-If you wouldn’t mind...” She let out a deep breath, tearing up. Grabbing her hoof, he led her back upstairs and locked the laboratory before taking her back to her room. Shield gave a lazy salute as the two passed, not questioning what Dawn was about to do. The guardstallion made sure the door stayed unlocked as Somnia went over to the bed and... stood there, staring at it.

“How do we begin?” He asked as he walked over to her.

“I-I don’t know.” She whimpered, closing her eyes.

Lifting Somnia up, he positioned her on the bed so that he could look into her eyes, face-to-face with the crying filly. “Is this alright?”

“J-Just...” She used her hooves to cover her face. “Put it in.”

He took his time to rub his member out of its sheath, getting it extended to thrust slow against her. She whimpered with every pass, keeping her hooves over her eyes as he rubbed his dick along her dry marehood.

“It’s alright, I’m not going to hurt you.” He grabbed one of her hooves, taking it from her eyes, her opening it up to stare at him, pupil a mere pinprick. “You’re safe with me. If it’s too much, say the word and I’ll stop.”

Using his hoof, he parted her lips before her hoof shot down and grabbed his own. “S-Stop. G-Give me a minute.” She began breathing in and out as Dusty and Shield had showed her, her lover moving back to give her some room. His member retreated into its sheath as the minutes passed. Every breath he saw her take was another that made him feel that much more uncomfortable. “T-Try with only your hoof.”

His hoof moved around the edge of her marehood, going slowly as she kept her exercises going. He could hear her heart pounding with his face close to her own. He didn’t need Somnia’s ‘soul-sight’ or whatever she called it to see that she was terrified.

“L-Let’s try again.” She moved her hoof down to his sheath and began rubbing it to come out. “I-I think I’m ready.”

“You sure?” He asked, helping her get it out. “If we need to try another time--“

“No. Now.” She looked down at it and shuddered, her hooves shaking as he positioned it against her. “P-Put it in.”

Parting her lips, she let out a squeal before using her foreleg as a gag, biting into it through the skin and drawing blood. He pushed into her at a sluggish pace as she cried and shook her head, but kept the foreleg locked in her mouth.

After about a quarter, he pulled back out and repeated. He repeated a few times until she removed her bloodied foreleg from her mouth and pushed him away; him stumbling over and falling onto his back. As she laid against her bloodied sheets, she cried and whimpered while he got back up, sitting close to her grooming table. And as he watched her shake and weep, his stomach turned by just how much it was hurting her.

After a few minutes of crying, she motioned for him to come back over. “A-Again.”

“I can’t.” He shook his head. “I can’t stand seeing you like this, Som. I’m not a sadist.” He got up and came back over to her, kissing her forehead and rubbing a hoof on her cheek to clear away some of her tears. “Let’s try again tomorrow, alright? That’ll give you some time to rest.”

“Y-Yeah. Okay.” She nodded, biting her lip. “Can you tell Shield to come change my bed sheets?”

“Of course.” He trotted from the room, and a few minutes later, Shield came back with some clean sheets. She sat at her writing desk while he changed them, taking slow, deep breaths.

“Somnia, do you need to talk to somepony about this?” Shield asked as he finished up putting on the new sheets. “I can go to the doctor and talk to them about setting up an appointment with a therapist if you aren’t comfortable asking.”

“N-No, just leave me alone.” She said back under her breath. He left her be, Somnia returning to her bed and collapsing down on it.

With a great sigh, Twilight opened the door to her room and dragged her bag inside. No magic was a pain in the flank and required telling her friends she had a horn condition with the new ring attached to it. She decided to tell them the truth when they’re grooming their pets at Rarity’s boutique in about two days. A nice, calming environment while they were all together. No rush to get it done. Not like she was going to get any less pregnant.

Collapsing down on the bed, Twilight hugged her special somepony close, stirring them from their sleep.

“Hey, you. How was your time in Canterlot?” He yawned, snuggling back into her.

“It was good.” She let out a satisfied sigh of relief. “Made up with my old friends.”

“That’s good.” He chuckled, petting her mane from her face to stare into her eyes. “I’m glad you’re back.”

“I’m glad to be back.” She scooted closer and kissed her husband for a moment. “We probably need to talk about the baby.”

“That can wait until morning.” He licked his lips. “Unless you want to try for another?”

“It doesn’t work that way.” She scrunched up her nose and rubbed it against his. They both gave a short laugh, settling in for the rest of the night. Duskwing laid a wing over her as she snuggled into him, content in the embrace.

Morning came soon enough for both. They got ready and went to breakfast where a miserable Somnia and snoring Nightwind weren’t the chattiest bunch. It hurt Twilight to see her daughter so distraught, but she knew that asking would only result in being yelled at like usual, and Duskwing knew better than to try after she blew up at him the last time. Both foals left early, Somnia not even finishing her meal while Nightwind had to rush to get to school. After breakfast, the two adults retreated to the upstairs living area in order to have some alone time from the world.

“Ahhh.” Duskwing sighed out as he settled into the large comfy chair Somnia ‘donated.’ “I can see why she liked it so much. You gotta show me that lab of hers someday.”

“I’m sure she’d be willing to show you if you would just ask her.” Twilight laid on the love seat, rubbing her belly. “Are we just having the wedding here?”

“I was thinking so. Already got the seamstress, after-party planner, and wedding planner. We just need somepony to administer the oaths and we’re golden.”

“Let me guess, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Pinkie Pie again?” She raised an amused brow.

“Close. Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Amethyst Star. Met her back at Cranky and Matilda’s wedding. Thought it would be for the best to get her to handle the decorations and catering. Something small, maybe enough for up to thirty ponies.”

“Speaking of... who are we inviting?” Twilight rolled over onto her back to stare at the ceiling. “You, me, the three kids, my five friends, Cadance and Shining Armor, my parents, the other princesses... That makes sixteen. Who else?”

“I was thinking Amethyst, Lyra, Bon Bon, the Queen’s Guard, the CMCs, and Windbane from Hollow Shades.”

“Windbane? Why her?”

“She’s an old friend of mine.” He bobbed his head to the side. “And I promised to make her my best-mare if I ever got married.”

“Alright, so that makes twenty-eight. One more spot if we include the minister.” Twilight tapped her belly in thought. “The mayor?”

“Nah.” Duskwing considered their options. There weren’t many other ponies that he knew he would be willing to invite. Excalion, Grar, and the little devil bunny of Fluttershy’s were givens. “Discord?”

Twilight winced. “Really? Do you really want him to come?”

“Isn’t he Fluttershy’s coltfriend or something?”

“No, they’re just friends.” Twilight thought a bit more. If she was going to invite one of her Canterlot friends, she might as well invite them all. But there was only one spot...

“Big Mac?”

“Yeah, alright. Big Mac is fine.”

“Now that’s out of the way...” Duskwing got up and went over to the love seat, pushing Twilight up as he positioned himself so she would lie against his belly. “I guess we need to talk about what we’re going to do about our incoming loaf.”

“I want to find out their sex at birth. Somnia already spoiled me on what type of pony they are, so I want to keep a little surprise for then.”

“Oh? They a bloodsucker?” He picked up her hoof and gave it a lick.

“Gross!” she batted back at him over her shoulder. “Maybe they are. Guess you’ll need to find out at the baby shower.”

“Guess I will.” He gave a chuckle. “What about names? I would like a colt to be named something like... Something Skies, if they’re a thestral or pegasus.”

“That means I get to pick the filly name.” Twilight stuck out her tongue at him. “I was thinking Midnight Miracle. Combines my modern family tradition of naming after times of night with my old name back from Excalicorn.”

“Didn’t we buck around midnight?” He rubbed her belly. “Seems awfully appropriate, given we didn’t expect to conceive.”

“It’s perfect.” Twilight grabbed his hoof and held it to herself. “I just hope it’s a filly, otherwise we’re trying again.”

“And again?”

She turned over and crawled up on him, a suggestive smirk on her face. “Am I just your baby maker?”

“Depends. How many do you want?” He pulled her up to straddle him.

“I don’t really know. I mean, we’ve already had three.” She rubbed his chest, moving her hips back and forth to entice him. “How about another three?”

“Make it five and we got a deal.” He lowered his hoof to her teats to stroke.

“F-Four.” She moaned out.

Kissing along her neck: “Four it is.”

Author's Note

Heyya vs Heya: What do you prefer? I'm preferential to Heya myself.

Chapter 31: Answers and Alicorns

Somnia? Are you alright?

Slowly opening her eyes, the filly groaned at the sight of the crow pecking at her mane. “Buck. Off...”

It’s been twenty-three hours, Som. You need to get up.

“What I need is sleep.” She pulled the bedsheets over her head. “Go away.”

That is a lie, and if sleeping this long was normal, I would gladly let you do so. Excalion used her magic to throw the bed sheets off of the fussy filly. Enough! Get up!

“Leave me alone!” She swiped at the crow, hoof passing through it without harm. “What the buck do you want from me?!”

Answers for a start. She tilted her head. Are you alright? Truly, are you?

“What the buck do you think?! I can’t buck, I can’t feel pain, I can’t even go to sleep on my own anymore without reliving it over and over again! What the buck am I supposed to be feeling?!”

The crow blinked with its eye. You do feel pain, just not in the way you understood before. Excalion hopped closer to her bloodied hooves. You’ve been biting your hooves while you attempt to rest. Both Grar and I also feel pain of the physical sort, but it takes getting used to the change in how it’s handled compared to how it was before. Think about the past few days, how you’ve been using your foreleg as a gag when practicing with Dawn. The pain you’re feeling is there, but you are choosing not to feel it.

I ask again, are you alright?

“Buck you!” She hopped down from her bed and trotted into the bathroom. One quick shower later, she marched from her room toward the dining hall where, hopefully, she would be alone.

“Good–“ Twilight yawned as her daughter came trotting in, Duskwing reading the paper next to her and Nightwind across the table dozing off. “–morning, Som. How did you sleep?”

“I didn’t.” She sat down, slamming her head against the table.

“That’s...” Twilight straightened up. “You didn’t?”

“I can’t.” The filly said under her breath.

“What–”

“I can’t!” Somnia shot up. “I can’t sleep! If I try, I get nightmares! If I try to stop the nightmares, I wake up!”

“Somnia, are you–“ Duskwing tried asking before she growled in frustration, jumping from her chair and cantering from the room. “That isn’t a good sign.”

“No...” Twilight leaned her head on her husband’s shoulder. “She’s had nightmares before, but she always seemed to push through them.”

He petted Twilight’s mane. “Has she spoken to you about what they did to her when she was foalnapped?”

“Wait, she was foalnapped?” Nightwind lifted his head up from across the table.

“No, she hasn’t.” Twilight let out a sigh. “But Dawn and Shield did talk to me about her. They’re worried about her mental health.”

“But why now? It’s been well over a month since the foalnapping.” Duskwing pushed Twilight’s head off of him as she almost dozed off.

“Maybe it’s settling in a bit more. She was doing so well for a while there.” Twilight shook her head. “I wish she would just tell me what she’s feeling. I want to help her, but she just gets angry if I ask.”

“Wait, she was foalnapped?!” Nightwind tried again. “When?! What happened?!”

“Remember how she looked at the Traders Exchange? That wasn’t even nearly as bad as what she looked like in the hospital.” Twilight nodded, letting out another yawn. “I need to get going to the boutique with Owlowiscious. Duskwing, can you please check on her while I’m gone? If she’s in the lab, talk to Shield and he’ll let you down there.”

“No problem.” He gave her a quick peck, giving a quick smile to her. “Try not to fall asleep on the way to your friends.”

Back again? Excalion set down on the headboard of Somnia’s bed. You can’t stay here forever.

“Why not? It’s not like anypony wants me around.” She mumbled as a knock came from the door. “Whoever you are, go away!”

“Somnia! It’s me, Nightwind!” The colt called out from the other side. “I-I didn’t know you were foalnapped. Are you alright?”

“Yes! Now leave me alone!”

Another minute passed before another knock came from the door. “I swear, if it’s–”

“I’m not leaving.” Nightwind said from the other side. “You need to talk about whatever happened.”

“What I need is for you to go away!”

A pause. “No. I’m not leaving you alone. I don’t like seeing you like this.”

Somnia pulled the pillow over her head and grumbled to herself as the door opened and her coltfriend trotted in while Excalion flew out, closing the door behind her. He sat on the edge of her bed and touched her back, sending shivers up and down her spine.

“I’m not leaving.”

She stayed silent in the hopes he would just leave, but he stayed put. Several minutes passed as they both waited in silence, his hoof moving in a slow line, rubbing her back.

“Want to hear about what Apple Bloom and I have been up to?”

“Probably bucking like changelings during mating season.” She grumbled into her pillow.

“We haven’t.” He laid down next to her, taking the pillow from her head so their eyes met, frowns complimenting one another. “We’ve been talking a lot about our fears and doubts. She’s still worried about getting her cutie mark. Thinks it’s too late for her, or that it’s going to be something she doesn’t like. Sweetie and Scootaloo have been trying to help get her away from all that cutie mark stuff, but she won’t let it go.”

The filly stayed silent, stewing on what he said. “I’ve been helping her get through those feelings. It hasn’t worked so far, but she has cried on my shoulder more than a few times. I want you to know that I’m here for you, like I am for her.”

Somnia sniffled, turning to the blood stain between them. She brought a hoof to her mouth and bit down on it, making Nightwind a bit more uncomfortable as fresh blood dripped onto the sheets.

No pain... She closed her eyes, trying to get anything from it besides the feeling of pressure. With a simple touch on her face from Nightwind, she let go of her hoof and opened her eyes to stare down at the self-inflicted wound rapidly healing. But why do I feel like I’m in pain?

“Som, do you want to tell me how it started?” He asked, scooting closer to hug her. “I won’t judge you, I promise.”

She took a few deep, ragged breaths, fighting back the thoughts. Would he understand? Did he remember when they first started dating? Her eyes slammed shut, muzzle scrunching up as she fought back the words. Nopony could know. H-He’d tell her mom and dad. He’d...

He’d be there for her. “I-I was raped.”

He flinched against her, but kept holding on, staying quiet until she continued. “I was foalnapped from the edge of town and brought into the forests. The griffon mercenaries used me as their personal plaything. T-They kept going, and going...” She choked back on her tears. “T-They threw me to the ground like n-nothing but a toy. T-Then... T-Th-Then–“ She hugged Nightwind even tighter, letting out a breathy sob into his chest.

Nightwind held onto her tight for several minutes, Somnia occasionally letting out another sob into his fur. It terrified him to know that his special somepony had gone through that, his trembling hoof rubbing her back to let her know he wasn’t going anywhere. That he would be there for her. “I-I’m scared.” She said after a bit. “I d-don’t want to feel s-something like that ever again.”

He moved his hooves along her back, getting a flinch out of her as he touched her wings, his marefriend whimpering into his shoulder as he rubbed them slow. “They pulled out your primaries, right? Had to regrow them from the root?” She gave a nod into his fur. “They feel like they’re back now.” He turned his attention to her horn. Besides the weird second-horn-thing growing from the back, it had healed back to how it was. Using his tongue, he licked it from base to tip, getting a moan from the filly before the whimpers took over.

“You’re one of the strongest ponies I know, Som. But even you aren’t invincible. You’ve healed in every way except one, and that’s what seems to be hurting you. You need to let go of the pain, to replace that bad with something good, and I think I know how.”

They kept in that same position, Nightwind rubbing her wings and licking her horn for a few minutes until her body tightened up and her breathing became labored. He persisted until she finally turned up to his face, wanting more.

With her body rolling atop his, she brought him in for a deep kiss while she coaxed his shaft from its sheath with a hoof. Her marehood ground against it, her hooves rubbing his dick as she repeatedly kissed him, lips parting against his member and exciting him further. Once she released the kisses and moved up a little, she positioned it for entry. Slowly, she lowered herself onto it, whimpering out loud as she pushed it deeper and deeper.

Now fully inside, she kept her eyes closed and shook her head, but moved her hips up and down, each one taking several seconds to complete. He stayed still, letting her do what she needed to while giving her an encouraging, gentle smile. A minute of laborious motions later, she pulled him out fully and rolled onto the bed beside him. “I-I c-can’t...” she whimpered, breaking down into another fit of tears. “I-I’m s-so sorry...”

“You have nothing to be sorry about. It wasn’t your fault. None of it was. You just need more time, and I’ll be with you the entire way if that’s what you need. Even if it takes years. I may have never gone through something like that, but I want to understand what you’re feeling so I can help you. You have the strength to overcome what happened, Som. I know you do.” He cuddled against her as she wept, petting her mane.

There they laid for what felt like hours, cuddling closer into one another’s embrace. After waiting for a while, her whimpering died down, Nightwind giving one last kiss on the forehead before closing his eyes to have a nap. She would be safe with him.

It won’t go away, even in here. Grar commented as the filly paced around her own personal prison.

“Well, what the buck am I going to do?! Nothing has worked! Nightwind and Dawn tried getting me used to it, but it isn’t working!”

Have you tried reliving the memory? Coming to terms that it happened and that it is over?

“Isn’t that exactly what I’ve been trying to do this entire time?!”

No, you’ve been avoiding it like the Chillrend Blight. Every time something reminds you of what happened, you shove it away into another part of your mind to fester into something different. You haven’t opened it back up to relive it on your own, only experiencing it when you didn’t want to, at least as I’m aware. I know what that does to you, Som. I've done the same thing before. The pain gets worse, and will only continue getting worse.

Somnia continued to pace back and forth a bit more, scratching her head until her scalp bled. It was temporary, as is everything in the dream realm, but it still–

It hurt. It actually hurt. Her eyes went to her now bloody hoof, the hoof reaching back up to touch the spot. The area had been completely healed, but it still hurt...

Wait, hold on, something is attempting to breach the protections on our external dreamscape.

With a quick transfer into the other segment, Somnia opened the way for whoever it was. A blackish-blue blob resembling the night sky entered, spotting her before moving forward to try encircling.

“Oh, please.” She lit her horn and threw it into a mental ‘cage’, closing the entrance she had made. Whatever the thing was, it was now trapped. “Do you communicate, or are you just a malevolent entity?”

It didn’t answer her, only attempting to free itself from the cage by ramming into the ‘bars’. With an ignition of her horn, she scanned it over from top to bottom, scrunching up her eyebrows. Luna? “Huh. So she sent a messenger? Or are you supposed to be some sort of pathetic assassin?”

The blob responded by trying to break the cage, pounding against the surrounding barriers in a futile attempt to escape.

“Not talkative?” She scanned it deeper, confirming it was indeed from Luna. That much was obvious based on the ‘memories’ it had in storage. Somnia laid next to the cage and began sifting through the thoughts, closing her eyes.

Different scenes played out before her eyes.

“Let’s see how much our subjects appreciate the night when you’re trapped on the moon, Tia. The night shall last forever, and you will NEVER stand against it again!”
“Commander, we need thou to mobilize the garrisons in preparation for the fourteenth of Sol Maxia. Strike at noon, and give no quarter.”
“There can be only one princess in Equestria! And that princess... WILL BE ME!”‘
“Oh, my little pony, you have nothing to fear. The sun is often cruel, yet the night should be a time of joy. Come to my embrace. For unlike the sun, the moon gives peace, and the nightmare protects.”
“Oh, my beloved subjects. It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious little sun-loving faces.”
“Do what you need to... just make sure she’s ours by the end of it.”
“I don’t care what you do! As long as it isn’t permanent and you don’t kill her, break her however you see fit!”

Opening back up her eyes, Somnia laid not in front of the blob, but a fictitious version of Nightmare Moon.

“What are you?”

“Tantabus.” Its wispy voice echoed around the dreamscape.

“What is your purpose?”

“Nightmares.”

“Why?”

“Guilt.”

Somnia winced and checked the memories again, this time related to this ‘Tantabus’.

“This is what happens when you try! LOOK AT THEM! Why would we ever forgive you?!”
“P-Please! NO! GO AWAY! I-I don’t want to! N-No! Not again! P-Please n-no...”
“My, she just looks hideous, doesn’t she? Whatever did the designer think when making something so vile? Good riddance, I say.”
“H-Harry, I- EEP! P-Please stop! I-I- H-Harry?! STOP!”
“weoch wseuncth wofewnuof quofow ginsfguo hehehehe”
“P-Please get up... Please... D-Dusking, I-I can’t lose you...”

She jumped to her hooves and backed away. “What that buck?!” She knew Celestia and Luna were behind the foalnapping, that they played a part in the rapes, and that Luna genuinely felt bad about it, but this was just... No, no more. Enough ponies have already suffered.

Discover anything? Grar asked.

“Yeah. Luna needs help.” Somnia released the Tantabus and reopened the way out for it. Once gone, she awoke.

Opening her eyes, she spotted the drooling mouth of Nightwind in front of her, sleeping sound on her cloud bed. She had to smile at the sight. He really was handsome when he was embarrassed or tuckered out. As she sat up in the bed, her eyes briefly glanced along his flank, causing her to focus her vision on the sight.

He got his cutie mark, but it differed from the one he had back in Excalicorn. She crawled down to it, running her hoof along the design. Two brains, one dark and one bright, connected by six colored strands. Her mind ran through the possibilities of what it could mean, coming to only one sensible conclusion.

Checking the time, she realized it was getting close to sunset, shaking her lover awake. He choked on some of his saliva as he flinched back, slowly opening his eyes. “Som?”

“Nightwind.” Her smile grew as stared into his eyes. “You got your cutie mark.”

“Huh?!” He sat up and checked his flank, a smile crossing his face briefly before faltering. “B-But what does it mean? I didn’t even do anything.”

“I think I have an idea.” Somnia kissed him, holding it as long as possible for the colt, all the while rubbing his chest until he had to pull away to breathe. “It’s not the same as it was back in Excalicorn, but it’s so much better. You’ll come to understand what your cutie mark means on your own.” She bit her lip, tearing up. “I’m glad you were here for me when I needed you. I know what I need to do now, how I can feel better about what happened to me. Thank you.”

“Uhh...” He tried saying something, but the filly simply hopped down from her bed and left out of the room before he could ask his question.

“Spike!” Somnia called out as she trotted around the castle. “Spiiike!”

Moving down to the throne room, she continued her search for him. She tried knocking hard on his bedroom door, checking the bathroom with that vertical mirror he likes to check out his muscles in, even checked the attic in case he got stuck up there somehow. Somnia slowed time and sped her way to Carousel Boutique. As she checked the door, only a sigh escaped her lips. Locked.

Next stop was Fluttershy’s. She casually trotted through the town, watching the ponies go about their evening routines, leaving the streets to head for the cottage. Once she knocked on the door, Angel Bunny answered. But he was as helpful as always, even if he didn’t hate her guts. Sweet Apple Acres, Big Mac had no clue where Applejack was. Finally defeated, she made her way back to the ‘Friendship Castle’, or whatever they were calling the giant crystal tree.

The sun traded places on the horizon as she trotted past Dawn; the stallion giving a lazy wave. “Som, just a heads up. Luna is coming by soon. Your mom wanted me to tell you so that you aren’t surprised.”

She stopped at the door. “Where?”

“Tartarus if I know. Just that sometime- Okay, there.” He pointed up at the incoming Princess of the Night landing on the upper balcony. Somnia entered the castle and proceeded to the upper floor, spotting her dejected dad walking along with a pillow and blanket draped over him.

“Where’s mom?”

“Our room.” He motioned his head back in the direction he came, the filly trotting past him. “Not even a goodnight?”

“Goodnight, dad!” she called back, making her way directly to the royal suite. Once she pushed open the doors, she saw the element bearers laying on several beds laid out around the room with Luna in the center.

“Somnia?” Twilight sat up in her bed. “Are you having trouble sleeping?”

“I’m not the only one.” She approached Luna, the regal sister standing firm, frowning down at her. “I know what you’ve done. I know about the Tantabus and your guilt. Are you ready to talk, or do you want to keep putting this off?”

The princess reached out a hoof. “Somnia, there is much you don’t–“ She slapped Luna’s outstretched hoof away from her.

“I know about you torturing yourself for what you’ve done.”

Each of the elements stared at Luna, the princess grinding her teeth. “I did this on my own. I must be the one to defeat the Tantabus.”

“Yeah, but you can’t do it alone. You need help.” Somnia hopped up onto her mother’s bed. “Take me with you. My dream manipulation is a lot stronger than it was before.” She gave a coy smile. “It’ll also give us an opportunity to talk.”

“I will not have you assist in defeating my own demons!” Luna snapped back at her. “Why do you even care? This has nothing to do with you!”

“Clearly, it does, otherwise my mom wouldn’t be here. I saw the nightmares it caused for my mom and her friends. I know the cruelty it inflicted because you designed it to serve as penance. It won’t work.”

“Somnia, what are you talking–“ The filly put her hoof over her mother’s mouth.

“Am I in, or not?”

“Fine. But stay out of my way.” Luna shook her head as each of the elements settled in for bed, Somnia closing her eyes and awaiting Luna’s prodding.

“Are you happy now?” Luna grabbed the filly from her personal dreamscape to drag into the dream pathways.

“No, but it isn’t about being happy. It’s about setting things right.” She said as Luna and her transferred to the first dreamer. The magical energy tunnel reminded Somnia of some amusement park activities back in Excalicorn, with the rapidly shifting colors and strange geography.

Both were squished into one another as they were forced into the dreamer’s mind, pink surrounding them. As they burst from the fabric, Somnia saw they stumbled into Rarity’s dream with a darkened abstract indoor surrounding. Both ponies searched the area for the Tantabus, its demonic dresses taking notice and redirecting toward them.

Somnia trotted forward as Luna took flight. As she charged her horn, Somnia realized that outside of her own mind that it would require actual effort to defeat these nightmares. She fired off a few rounds in quick succession, vaporizing the attack-dresses.

The Tantabus continued to fly around corrupting more dresses as Luna and Rarity tried fighting them off. Closing her eyes, Somnia could see the connection to Luna now as clear as day, both entities connected by subtle strands that became more visible the closer they got. Her hunch was correct: this beast was a part of Luna that she sectioned off, not merely a created abomination. While she was thinking of how best to go about defeating it, the Tantabus made one last burst of corrupting energy before fleeing through an open window.

Luna blew open the ‘brick wall’ the Tantabus had filled the window with when it fled, rushing after it. Looking up at the opening, Somnia considered going after her. We can’t defeat it if we’re going to be rushing from dream to dream. It needs to be isolated with her.

“Somnia! Aren’t you going after her?” Rarity fired another laser at more incoming dresses.

“No, because this isn’t going to work.” Somnia let out a sigh, turning back to help Rarity fend off the assaulting nightmares. “She won’t be able to catch it like this.”

“What did you mean she felt guilty?” Rarity blew up another one, spreading ruined pieces of fabric onto the ground before they slowly faded away. “I don’t understand what she could possibly be guilty for.”

“Everything.” Somnia gritted her teeth while she charged up an energy shockwave. “All the harm and suffering she has caused. She believes it will offer her salvation for those she’s hurt, but it is only prolonging the suffering.”

Unleashing the blast, Somnia obliterated the remaining dresses and collapsed the dreamscape into an open field outside of Ponyville. “You should be safe now. I should go check on the others.”

“Thank you, Somnia.” Rarity waved off the filly as she flew back into the magical tunnels. A quick check on Pinkie Pie revealed she wasn’t having any issues. Not surprising, given her chaotic nature. Next was Fluttershy.

As she burst from the nearby forest, Somnia spotted Fluttershy cowering atop a tree while a giant grotesque parody of Angel Bunny tried scratching and clawing its way up to her. Quickly flying over, Somnia charged her horn and vaporized the nightmare abomination before repeating the process of collapsing the dreamscape into a generic field.

“Are you alright?” She asked as she landed next to the weeping Fluttershy.

“W-Why did you h-have to kill Angel?!” she cried into her hooves.

Somnia narrowed her eyes at Fluttershy, marching up and grabbing her. “That wasn’t Angel. That was merely a nightmare. Don’t think for a second that it would have shown you any mercy.”

“B-But you didn’t h-have to–”

“If it could feel something, it would have been over before it knew it. I did what I had to, for your sake.” Somnia let go of Fluttershy and looked around. With a great sigh, she focused on the pegasus that was slowly recovering. “We need to talk to each other about what happened at the gala.”

“A-Are you g-going to apologize?” Fluttershy crossed her forelegs as she glared at Somnia, giving a few last sniffles.

“No, I’m not.” She kept her gaze focused on Fluttershy’s. “I’m not going to apologize because I did nothing wrong. It may have sounded harsh, but I firmly believe it to be correct. Did my mom tell you why I think that?”

“Yes...” Fluttershy’s ears fell back against her head. “It’s just so–”

Both were thrown back out into the wakeful world as the dreamscape collapsed. All the elements bolting up in their beds gasping.

“What happened? Are you guys okay?” Spike hopped down from his bed and went over to Rarity.

“I knew I shouldn’t have trusted you to come along!” Luna turned on the filly. “Where were you?!”

“Helping Rarity and Fluttershy rather than chasing my own tail!” Somnia shot back. “We won’t be able to defeat it if it can keep bouncing between different dreamers!”

“I will eventually, so long as none of you dreamt about another pony, the Tantabus remains confined to your dreams, meaning I can continue to patrol you six until it finally is caught.” Luna looked at the others in the room.

“Phew, that’s good to hear! Although after you left, I did happen to dream that the whole town was partying with cheesy string and candy confetti for Filthy Rich’s birthday.” Pinkie added, to the shock of the other elements and Luna.

“Bucking. Seriously?” Somnia groaned, falling back onto her pillow.

Twilight facehoofed. “But that means the Tantabus could be turning every dream in Ponyville into a nightmare!”

“It is far worse than that. Infecting all those dreams gives it more and more power. Soon it will be able to escape into the real world and infect Equestria with its nightmare plague!” Luna bit her lip as she tried thinking of a solution.

“Hey, crazy idea, but what if we were all having the same dream?” Rainbow suggested.

“I... can create shared dreams, yes, but for so many ponies at once? I have never done anything like that. The amount of power it would take...”

“Well, it is worth a try, isn’t it?” Fluttershy provided a gentle smile to Luna.

“Of course. I will do anything to end this, including accept your help. I cannot allow the Tantabus to escape into the real world. All of you must now go back to sleep and hope that I can create such a dream.”

Everypony present began settling down into bed, all except two. With one last glare at Luna, Somnia didn’t even want to consider the ramifications of her misguided actions. She rolled her eyes and settled next to her mother, snuggling into her.

Here we go again...

“Yup, this is strange.” Somnia commented at the nighttime sight of Ponyville with flying muffins and dream logic. Buildings warped, lamp posts would be upside down or walk on their own, and everything had a fuzzy feel to it. The purple in the night sky was exaggerated more than the real world, her soul sight finding the tendrils of Luna’s magic within it. Okay, maybe she’s stronger than I gave her credit for.

Her mother gasped from beside her. “Luna did it!”

“Ponies!” Luna called out from the center of the town square, ponies rushing over to bow to her. “That is no time for bowing, my friends! There is something coming, something terrible! No, it is already here!” She pointed to the massive cosmic blob that flew over the town, letting out a growl which rippled the false air, ponies scattering screaming.

Somnia took flight to hover next to her mother’s ear. “Hey, mom, you and the elements distract the Tantabus. I need to talk to Luna.”

“Wouldn’t you like to help?” She suggested, rubbing a hoof along Somnia’s cheek.

“I am, but it can’t be allowed to escape. Please, just keep it busy.”

With a nod, Twilight went off to talk to the other elements while Somnia made her way over to Luna who was struggling to keep the dreamscape together, landing in front of her.

“Luna, we need to talk.”

“Everypony can hear, Somnia. Now is not the best time.”

“No, now’s the only time.” Somnia laid down in front of her, poking at the imaginary soil with a hoof. “The Tantabus cannot be defeated by normal means. It’s a part of you. To destroy it would be like cutting off your own leg. It needs to be defeated by you and only you.”

“I’m already well aware of that.” The Princess of the Night grimaced at the filly.

“No, you’re not.” She turned over to where the elements were assaulting the nightmare blob. “It is fed by your guilt. Without it, you lose that part of yourself. It can’t be defeated without you coming to terms with what you’ve done and moving on. You can’t keep it separate from you like this.”

“I needed to punish myself for what I did as Nightmare Moon, and for all the suffering I caused. I deserve this! I deserve to suffer for my actions!” She closed her eyes to focus on the shared dream, a roar from the Tantabus signaling an increase in its severity.

“You don’t need that to suffer.” Somnia stood back up, her eyes tearing up and her mind set. “You really don’t understand what suffering can do for you. But I do, and I will show you.”

The filly disappeared from the dreamscape, a confused Luna staring at the empty spot where Somnia once stood. In a blinding flash of light, the dreamscape began disintegrating around everypony as they ejected from the shared dream. The last thing heard was the horrendous screech from the Tantabus as its very being was forcefully sent back into Luna.

Everypony would awake from the nightmare.

Except for her and Somnia.

Each of the elements shot up in their beds, their eyes focusing on the scene unfolding at the center of the room. Bits of energy arced from the filly as she held her head to Luna’s, both frozen in place as the surrounding air ionized. Each didn’t breath, merely forced to watch on in horror as Luna was brought to her knees. Urine ran down the legs of both princesses at the epicenter, whimpers coming from each for whatever they were experiencing. Luna’s tears fell from her face, her body shaking along with her cousin’s.

After two minutes of agonizing crackling, the entire field collapsed. Somnia fell to the ground, her body undergoing a seizure while Luna jumped into the air, crashing into the ceiling before falling to the floor. She scooted along her haunches toward the wall, hyperventilating and looking around in terror before quickly getting onto her shaking hooves and blasting the doors to the balcony to pieces, leaping into the night.

A moment later, a bright light engulfed the room, Princess Celestia hovering above and looking around at each of the terrified ponies. “Twilight, what happened?”

Twilight finally let go of the breath she was holding along with the others. She took several deep breaths as she stared at her daughter that finally stopped seizing on the floor.

The princess landed and stepped over the urine puddles, making her way to Twilight’s bedside to check on her student. “You don’t know what happened, do you?”

“Heh... I...” Her face contorted as she let go a few sparks from her horn. “Wow...”

Rainbow rubbed her erected wings. “Woah, right...”

“T-That was even more intense than last time.” Rarity giggled a bit, magical overflow sparking from her own horn.

“That’s because it was the same as what happened at the hospital.” Celestia checked Twilight’s eye movement. “I don’t doubt the rest of you are in shock still.”

“What in tarnation did she do to Princess Luna?” Applejack wondered aloud as the filly slowly got to her hooves. Celestia turned to Somnia, examining her with narrowed eyes.

“I did what she needed. I showed her the results of her actions.” Somnia stated, keeping her gaze on Celestia. “Maybe you could learn a thing or two as well, but right now, you need to go stop her from killing herself.”

“What do you–“ Twilight didn’t finish before Celestia bolted for the balcony and took flight. “Somnia?” Her daughter walked past her. “What happened? What did you do?”

“Accepted her apology.” Somnia said before walking out, leaving the elements to only wonder what happened.

Trudging her way back to the dining hall, Somnia let out a satisfied yawn. A good night’s sleep, finally. No nightmares, no rude guests, nothing but blissful sleep.

As she pushed open the doors, it didn’t surprise her to see Celestia’s scowl and her mother’s nervous concern. Also unsurprisingly, her dad was calmly reading the morning paper while sipping his coffee. She sat down next to Celestia and put her head on her hoof.

After a painful minute of silence, Celestia finally spoke. “Did you sleep well?”

“Better than I have since I was foalnapped.” Somnia grinned up at her.

“Well, I’m glad you are happy with what you’ve done.” Celestia said, voice dripping with sarcasm and eyes narrowing on her. “Do you have any idea what I had to do in order to get Luna contained?”

“No, but you did get her contained, did you not?”

“Somnia, Luna tried killing herself in the Ghastly Gorge.” Twilight gulped back the lump in her throat. “What did you do to her?”

“Even I don’t know what you did. Luna wasn’t very keen on sharing, besides repeating ‘I’m sorry’ again and again.” Celestia added.

“I showed her the consequences of her actions, or one particular action, anyway.” She turned to her mother. “I also ‘defeated’ the Tantabus for her. If Luna wants to hurt herself because of her actions in the past, I’m going to make sure she understands the full weight of those actions. She can live with the guilt on its own, not just the illusion of penance through a perceived third-party.”

“I have her under house-arrest for the foreseeable future.” Celestia sighed, turning back to Twilight. “Which means she won’t be attending any events. I’m also taking over her duty of raising and lowering the moon since she cannot be trusted with her magic. Twilight, are you willing to take over her administrative duties while she recovers?”

“Y-Yeah, I can do that.” She kept her eyes on her daughter, wondering what she could have possibly shared with Luna to cause such an extreme reaction.

“I would like to talk to her when she starts feeling better. It’s only appropriate that I follow-up about what I showed her.” Somnia stared down the eldest princess. “I’m certain that won’t be a problem?”

“If she wants to see you, I’ll allow it.” Celestia glared at the filly before turning back to Twilight. “The papers will be by later tonight. I’m afraid I must return to Canterlot to perform damage control for the magical burst.”

With that, the Princess of the Sun got up and left, leaving three ponies sitting at the table.

“Would somepony care to explain why I had to sleep on the couch last night and rudely awoken by a wingboner?” Duskwing put down his paper. Twilight sighed, turning to him, and began explaining the situation.

Chapter 32: Now and Forever

With one last breath, Twilight reopened her eyes and looked between her anxiously waiting friends. A few bumps from the train going over the tracks brought back the nervousness as much as the mere thought. Without Duskwing there, and with Somnia asleep, she felt a lot less certain about the prospect of telling other ponies about the secret. With one last swallow, she let it out. “I’m pregnant.”

Out of the five, Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity all gasped, each with mixed reactions, while Applejack and Rainbow Dash exchanged bits, clearly Applejack being the winner. “When are you due?” Fluttershy fluttered her wings in excitement. “How long? Do you need to go shopping for a crib and baby supplies? Can I help?” She gave the purple princess puppy-dog eyes that screamed of hope.

“Twilight, darling, I don’t mean to be the odd one out, but are you sure you’re ready for this?” Rarity asked with genuine concern, the others turning to her, confused. “I-It’s not that I don’t support your decision! I’m only worried you may be getting ahead of yourself.”

“I’m certain, Rarity. I know what you’re thinking, that I’m rushing this, or that Duskwing may not turn out to be the right choice, but he’s been a great surrogate dad for Nightwind. And I made a promise,” Twilight turned to the sleeping filly next to her, “I’m not going to abandon a foal of mine, no matter what.”

“I never suggested you do any such thing.” Rarity shook her head. “I’m sorry if you took it that way. You were correct about the second concern, though. I have no doubt that Duskwing will be a wonderful father to your foal–”

“Then what? That him and I will separate?” Twilight straightened up defensive.

The fashionista sighed. “I just don’t want you to be a single mother.”

While Applejack and Rainbow Dash were watching the two argue, Pinkie was uncharacteristically quiet, something that turned the two’s heads at the sight of. “Pinkie, ya look like more nervous than a filly at a timber wolf convention. Somethin’ wrong?” Applejack whispered to the party mare.

“N-No. Everything’s fine.” She gave a nervous chuckle, casting her vision back to Twilight. “Just thinking of all the party planning I’ll need to do for the baby shower and wedding, that’s all.”

While Somnia appeared to be sleeping, she was actually listening to every word and emotion expressed. Her mind ran through the possibilities of the varied reactions. While Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack were all happy for their friend and Rarity was concerned, Pinkie was something else. The chaotic energies within her muddied accurate readings, but what little could be deduced wasn’t a good sign: she was scared. Of what, Somnia didn’t know, but based on the other emotions, it wasn’t jealousy. It was... guilt?

I take it you are seeing what I’m seeing. Grar asked his host. Should we ask, or should we leave it be for now?

Leave it be. Hopefully, I’m misreading the emotions and she’s only jealous. I don’t even want to think of what she would be guilty for.

“He’ll make a great husband! Why can’t you trust me on that?!” Twilight’s argument with Rarity had finally escalated to yelling.

“Because this is your first relationship, and I don’t want to see you hurt.” She responded, her voice a little louder but still relatively calm. “It hasn’t even been four months since you met him. How do you know if he’s the right fit?”

“Because I knew him before! Our relationship is going to be alright! We were married for three thousand years and had three foals together! And this is our foal! I’m not going to separate them from their father!”

“You don’t remember those times, darling.” Rarity gave a deep sigh. “If you believe you’ll be fine, then I trust you. I just don’t want to see–”

“Alright, that’s enough.” Somnia got up and hugged her mother. “Mom, it’s okay.”

“I-I just...” She closed her eyes and sighed, tearing up.

Somnia turned back to Rarity. “Sorry about that. She’s under a lot of stress with the increased royal duties, and the pregnancy is doing what it does. Hormones and all that.”

“I-I’m fine.” Twilight wiped the tears from her eyes. “Sorry for yelling, Rarity. I know you mean well.”

“It’s alright, darling.” Rarity got up and sat next to Twilight, bringing her into a hug. “I know it’s probably tough to go through all of these changes to your body.”

“Exactly how long have ya known?” Applejack finally asked, the others looking to Twilight.

“About seven weeks. I found out on Somnia’s birthday.” Twilight wiped her eyes again. “I was about two weeks pregnant at the time.”

“Guess that explains the mood swings.” Rainbow broke into a laugh, getting a jab from Applejack. “Ow!”

“So you’re expecting in the summer?” Fluttershy leaned closer, a huge smile on her face. “We need to go shopping before winter. Oh, I can’t wait to see your little foal!” She squeaked in joy.

Rarity bit her lip. “It would also explain the extra weight.”

“I’m not that fat yet!” Twilight snapped back, startling her friends.

“Shh, it’s temporary, and it’s only going to keep growing.” Somnia calmed her mother back down. “Don’t worry, it’ll go away after you give birth.”

Twilight took a minute to take a few breaths before turning back to her curious friends. “I can’t use magic because I have an alicorn medical condition.” She tapped the ring at the base of her horn. “That’s the real reason for this.”

“We’ll help in any way we can. You’re our friend. Come get us if ya need help movin’ anythin’ around.” Applejack winked.

“Yeah, come get me anytime!” Rainbow affirmed, the others nodding in confirmation of their devotion.

“Thank you, all of you. I’ll probably need some help with the crib and–”

“GO!” Somnia pushed her mother from the seat. While Twilight cantered from the room, Somnia turned to the others. “Bladder. You know how it is.”

“Actually, none of us do.” Rainbow scratched the back of her head. “We haven’t had foals.”

“I meant information-wise.” The filly deadpanned.

A few minutes later, Twilight reentered and sat back down with a contented sigh. “Thanks for the warning.”

“Don’t want you peeing yourself again, now do we?” Somnia giggled, the other elements suppressing their own laughs at Twilight’s embarrassment.

“Do you know what kind they are? They a bat like their dad?” Rainbow asked, her wings fluttering. “It’d be so cool to teach a batpony to fly!”

“I do know what kind of pony they are, but that’s going to be revealed at the baby shower.” Twilight winked. “Don’t worry, I think you’ll all be surprised at what they are.”

For the rest of the train ride, the elements asked a variety of questions about how she felt, or gave suggestions on what they could help with pre and post birth. Somnia tuned out most of it to return to her resting, Twilight breaking down in tears again with another sudden surge of hormones, thanking her friends for all their support.

Despite returning to a happier demeanor, Somnia could tell Pinkie was worried. The party pony cast a few glances to her throughout the ride, giving her an understanding of the concern she had.

Celestia had told her about what she really is, and what it meant for her future. Or lack thereof.

Unlocking the door, Celestia deeply sighed before pushing through. “Lulu, I have your breakfast.”

Wrapped up under the sheets was her sister, still mopping in her own thoughts. Once she walked over to the other side of the bed, she set down the tray on the nightstand and sat to face her sister directly. “Are you willing to talk now?”

“No. Go away.” She mumbled, turning her eyes onto Celestia.

“Lulu, it’s been nearly a month. Laying in bed won’t make you feel any better.” Celestia rubbed a hoof along her sister’s cheek that was covered by dark purple silken bed sheets. “Please, tell me what happened.”

“No.” She pulled the sheet over her head in defiance.

As she stood back up, Celestia locked the door before tearing the sheet from her sister. “I’ve had enough of this, Luna! Nobles are already asking what happened to you, and I’ve had to hold more than a few uncomfortable meetings on my own. Quit being selfish and get up!”

“Selfish?!” Luna shot up, stepping down from her bed, her mane in a disastrous state. “I’m not the one who suggested she be foalnapped! I’m not the one who put her own personal ambitions ahead of the life of a foal!”

“I’m not the one who nearly got her killed!” Celestia snapped back. “That was you! Accept that it happened and move on! You bucked up! I wanted to break her so she couldn’t be a threat to us, not turn her against us even more! Do you know what the doctor’s report said?! She would have bled out if she hadn’t been brought to the hospital, that’s how severe the internal injuries were!”

“It was your plan–”

“And I would never have accepted such brutal retaliation!” Celestia backed Luna into her bed. “You did! You let them do whatever they wanted, and now she’s an even greater threat! I trusted you understood what needed to be done, but instead you go ahead and make such a horrible decision on your own, like you always do!”

“OH! That’s what this is about?! That I’m not as good at placating aristocrats as the ‘great and benevolent’ Princess Celestia?!”

“Grow the buck up, Luna! You agreed to the plan because you threw a hissy fit about losing your oh-so-precious thestrals! What did you actually do for them?! You bitch and whine about improving thestral rights, but then are blown over by a light breeze! Stop being a spineless coward and try behaving like my co-monarch for once in your life!”

Sniffling back the tears, Luna turned to her meal. “Leave.”

“Fine! But I want you back for the meeting with the E.U.P. General Staff this evening. If you aren’t up by then, then I’ll...” She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, lowering her voice. “Just be there, please? I don’t want to keep doing all of this alone. I want you to be my equal. I want ponies to see that they can rely on you to do as good of job as me. If you need more time alone, I’ll let you have it, but I need you to start performing your duties again.”

Celestia walked back toward the door, rubbing her head with a hoof as she went to unlock it. “Wait...”

“Yes?” She turned back to her sister, donning a lighter, hopeful smile.

“She made me experience what they did to her.” Luna let out a shaken sigh, turning fully to her sister. “I-I felt as they raped and beat her. For nine days, I felt everything they did. E-Every time they raped her, every punch a-and scratch, and everything she felt f-from the first time until they... H-How they carved her horn up and plucked out her feathers...” She extended a wing and rubbed it. “Tia, I-I never felt something that painful in my entire life. Not even being purified by the Elements of Harmony hurt like that.”

“Lulu...” Celestia walked back over, hugging her sister. “It wasn’t you. Yes, she suffered greatly because of what they did, but that didn’t happen to you. You’re alright.”

“It may as well have.” Luna whispered, keeping her vision on the floor. With a great sigh, she hugged back her sister. “I don’t want anypony else to experience that. Somnia was right. I needed to know the full weight of my actions. I needed to experience that pain. Both of us did.”

“There’s more, isn’t there?” Celestia cleared the messy mane from Luna’s eyes, seeing the desperation within.

“I-I can’t sleep soundly. Scenes of what happened keep coming back, over and over and over again. I keep reliving it as clear as the first time, all that pain and–“ She cut herself off, wiping the tears from her eyes. “Somnia left a message at the end of every night. She keeps telling me that only I can defeat the Tantabus and end the nightmares. B-But I don’t know how...” Luna grimaced, closing her eyes while tears ran down her face.

“You are strong, my sister. You made the Tantabus on your own, and you would have defeated it if she hadn’t intervened.” Celestia smile fell. “She is trying to play your emotions to her benefit. I don’t want to say it, but we’ve both been played by her. We need to move on, together, in order to ensure Equestria is protected against her worst impulses.”

Luna considered it a minute, turning away from her sister over to the bedside table with the small figurine of Star Swirl. He had always spoken of the necessity of sacrifice, that certain things were too important to let personal feelings get in the way. Both her mother and father had that flame the last time she saw them, that determination to do what was right despite how much it hurt. Turning back to her sister, Luna could see the same determination in Celestia’s eyes as was in Star Swirl’s. That was in her mother’s. That was in dad’s...

“Leave me to get ready. I’ll- I’ll be down in an hour.”

“What do you want to do after visiting the boutique?” Twilight leaned down to Somnia and Spike. “We got some time while in Canterlot.”

“I wanna go shopping for more comics. Not sure about the two of you, but there’s a new series I’ve been recommended by Gizmo I’ve been dying to read!” Spike exclaimed.

“I wouldn’t mind going to the statue garden.” Somnia shrugged with a hoof indifferently.

“Are you sure you two don’t want to do something together?” Twilight tried again. “I was thinking we try out an escape room.”

“I’d be down for that.” Spike nodded along with Somnia.

“Great!” Twilight straightened up as they approached the boutique, Rarity unlocking the door and leading them inside. The other elements awed the delicately decorated interior of the boutique, expertly crafted dresses designed by Rarity were carefully presented around the central display area. Stairs to the right of the central stage led to an upper level, with even more dresses available to be browsed, a much larger display stage covered by curtains on the left half of the room.

“I take it from your reaction that you like the boutique?” Rarity beamed to her friends proudly.

“It’s lovely.” Fluttershy spoke up.

“Gosh, Rarity. I know hard work when I see it, but how did all this get done while ya were in Ponyville?” Applejack asked, curious.

“I’ve been working hard on the dresses from Ponyville, however, I never could have gotten the boutique ready for the grand opening without the help of my new manager Sassy Saddles!” She announced, a taller light blue mare with a multi-shaded orange mane trotting in from one of the back rooms.

“Bust my buttons, Rarity! The ponies from Ponyville!” she exclaimed to the greetings of the other elements.

“I knew I needed a manager for Canterlot Carousel, so when Sassy showed me her resume and I saw she worked in all the finest boutiques in Canterlot, I hired her right on the spot!”

“I then laid out this plan,” Sassy levitated over a folded thick fabric, “or ‘pattern’ as we say in the fashion biz, for Canterlot Carousel so that Rarity’s boutique will be a guaranteed success and those doors will never, ever, ever close!” Sassy finished with a flourish.

“Wow, Sassy. Your attention to detail is truly impressive.” Twilight complimented.

“I’ve already put a pin in the first piece of the pattern: Beautify the Boutique! But next was the very crucial pattern piece: Marketing to the Mares! Turns out that everypony here loves royalty!”

“So I created a collection that beautifully revolved around the royal element of Canterlot!” Rarity added.

“And it just so happens there’s a hot new princess in Equestria!”

“In every poll Sassy Saddles took, you were the most popular princess!” Rarity said to Twilight. “Coincidentally, one of my gowns is inspired by the window in Canterlot Castle commemorating your coronation!” She and Sassy made their way over to the stage to unveil a beautifully designed dress with jewels lined along it and fake wings protruding from the back, the elements awing at the display.

“Oooo! What place did I come in?” Somnia proceeded to the edge of the stage, glancing expectantly between Sassy and Rarity, the former scratching the back of her neck.

“You weren’t included. Honestly, I forgot you even existed, princess.” Sassy gave her a nervous smile. “And success in the fashion biz revolves around marketing toward the adult patrons, no offense.”

“We can look at the ‘Favorite Princess’ poll next time it comes out, promise.” Twilight cheekily rubbed her daughter’s head.

“While I’ve always prided myself on paying attention to detail, I’ve taken my latest collection to a whole new level with ‘Rarity’s Rules of TLC’!” Rarity proclaimed.

“Judging by this baby, TLC stands for Tasty Liquorice Candy!” Pinkie hopped up onto a clearly unfinished design, falling off as the cape became undone from the back.

“TLC stands for ‘Time, Love, and Couture’.” Rarity clarified, walking over to Pinkie. “And while I do agree that this dress has potential, I’ve not had enough time to give it enough love to become couture.” She floated the poniquin and back cape into the nearby room, closing the door. “But the rest of the gowns in tonight’s line have met Rarity’s Rules and are ready to be presented!”

“That one kinda looked like what we had back in Excalicorn.” Somnia giggled to her mother, getting one back.

“My marketing research also confirmed that customers that viewed somepony famous wearing a gown wish to own that gown for themselves.” Sassy unrolled another few sections of her ‘pattern.’ “I call this piece of the pattern Celebrity Status!”

“So, Twilight, we were wondering if perhaps you might possibly wear this for the grand opening?” Rarity sweetly asked her friend.

“If being a princess and wearing that dress can help your boutique, then I say stick a pin in it. It’s done!” Twilight smiled back.

“Alright, everypony! Let’s set the stage!” Sassy proclaimed, pulling the curtain on the main stage back over the inspired dress.

“Twilight, if you wouldn’t mind going back stage and putting it on...” Rarity grinned to her friend. “Just go upstairs when you’re done and wait for my signal before going to the top of the stairs.”

“No problem, Rarity!” Twilight trotted off over to the stage and headed behind the curtains. Somnia and Spike both headed to the upper level while they opened the boutique to the public, going for the ‘non-pony' section.

“What do you think of the place?” Somnia poked at one of the griffon dresses. They barely had anything in stock for non-ponies, and all of it was for griffons. While limited in variety, Rarity still masterfully designed each outfit with the utmost level of care, and it showed.

“It’s great! It’s nice to see Rarity fulfilling her lifelong dream.” Spike grabbed a suit for male griffons, carefully examining it.

Somnia, can you please get Rarity for me? We have a problem. Twilight signaled over the telepathic link.

“I gotta go help mom.” Somnia gave an apologetic smile to Spike. “She’s having trouble fitting into the dress.”

She trotted back down the stairs to where Rarity was watching the incoming guests with barely contained enthusiasm. “Psst, Rarity?”

“Hmm?” She turned back absently. “Do you need something, Somnia?”

“Mom needs some help.” She smiled, trotting past Rarity. “You might want to come along.”

The two traveled back to the dressing area next to the stage, Fluttershy and Twilight sitting there with the dress only partially on. Rarity realized the problem immediately, the blood rushing from her face.

“I’m so sorry, Rarity, but...” Twilight tried fitting herself through the front section, the fabric tightening to its limit before she got her foreleg through the sleeve.

“I-I didn’t...” She took a deep breath, donning a nervous smile. “N-No problem. We’ll just make some last-minute adjustments.” Rarity trotted up to Twilight and began taking updated measurements. She bit her lip as she began undoing the front section.

“Probably should have accounted for mares with thicker front legs.” Somnia giggled next to Fluttershy.

“This should have fit her based on my old measurements from the gala.” Rarity sighed. “But I didn’t consider the extra girth from retaining water.”

“It’s fine, Rarity. I understand.” Twilight kept still while her friend redid the front sleeves and helped her put it on, slipping it over her.

“Alright, how does it feel?”

“Much better.” Twilight adjusted the band around her barrel, her body swaying slightly as she temporarily felt light-headed. “Good thing this is stretchy for those extra pounds.”

“Rarity! What are you–“ Sassy stopped as she turned the corner. “Is something wrong?”

“Just some last-minute adjustments.” Rarity stood back up and circled around Twilight. “There. Looks like how it’s supposed to.”

“It is time to start the presentation!” Sassy pushed Rarity back out of the curtained area impatiently as Twilight and Somnia made their way to the stairs backstage to bring them to the upper level of the boutique.

Twilight took a few breaths as they climbed the stairs, Somnia acting as support. They stopped further back on the upper level so that the ponies down below wouldn’t see her.

“You alright?” Somnia checked her mother’s temperature. She already knew the answer, but formalities were formalities.

“No...” Twilight suppressed a burp. “Why do I feel so sick all of a sudden?”

“Come on.” Somnia gave an unamused glance to her mother’s belly.

“I’ve already thrown up this morning.” Twilight closed her eyes, taking a few more breaths. “And it shouldn’t be coming this late.”

“Alicorn foals are like that. They are far more intense to gestate.” Somnia picked up Twilight’s leg and checked the pulse, her own heart skipping a beat as she realized the real problem. Her mind flashed back to the notes in the data-slates, all the details surrounding her mother’s condition. Whispering to herself: “Shit!”

“What’s wrong?” She stared into her daughter’s fearful eyes. “Is it bad?”

“Heart rate is too high.” Somnia sighed. “And with the extra water and sudden onset of sickness...” She paused, biting her lip. “We need to get you to the hospital.”

“W-What’s wrong?” Twilight asked again, her mind reeling at what it could mean.

“That horn fungus I mentioned can manifest elsewhere. It’s a more severe version of the illness, but can be dealt with.” Somnia helped her mother up, Twilight’s back legs shaking violently. “Let’s get you back downstairs and out of this dress. I’ll get Applejack and we’ll take you to the hospital, alright? It’s going to be okay. You’re going to be okay.” She tried to calm her mother down as she helped her back to the stairs to the backstage area.

Her mind kept going through the motions of formulas for the medication related to the fungus. While her mother was predisposed to the horn variant, the systemic variant was a real possibility, a one-in-a-hundred chance per instance. The partner of Uncle Tacis had the same problem, and unfortunately, that didn’t turn out well. She didn’t want to think of losing either of them, but if push came to shove, she would choose her mother’s life over her sister’s, not that there was a choice given how early it was.

Once they got to the bottom of the stairs, Twilight took a seat and refused to go further, grimacing at the tightening in her chest. Somnia looked her over, checking everything she reasonably could.

Damn it!

“Damn it indeed.” Somnia mumbled. “Mom, stay right here. Do not move or relax too much.”

“W-What’s... happening?” She asked, her voice wispy, terrified of the sudden loss of her ability to breathe with ease.

“You’re having a heart attack. Stay here!” Somnia galloped back out to the crowd, the other elements watching as Rarity presented the royal dresses. She ran up to the elements, grabbing Applejack and Fluttershy to bring them back with her, Rarity watching on from the stage curiously and slightly concerned.

Once at the back, they saw Twilight carefully monitoring her breathing and clutching her chest. “Twilight!” Applejack and Fluttershy rushed over.

“I need you to make sure she stays awake and doesn’t move from this spot. Hit her in the face if you have to! And rip off that damn dress!” Somnia disappeared with a gust of wind that nearly blew over Fluttershy.

Once she repositioned the last piece, Somnia sped her way to the seal and opened it wide, quickly galloping down the hallway and into her lab. She stopped part of the way to the relevant area in order to prevent damage to her equipment, choosing to gallop into her alchemy lab at regular speed. On throwing open the refrigerator door, she began taking out various ingredients she had stockpiled, piling them onto the table. She proceeded to the solid equipment, grabbing a fresh rock-slate and started carving various runes into it from memory.

Somnia, that is incredibly dangerous! You’ll get ponies killed if you–

“There’s no choice!” She shouted back, her tears falling as she finished inscribing the runes into the slate. Grabbing the ingredients, she performed the tasks needed to create the single potion capable of healing her mother’s systemic infection without harming her sister. All the ingredients were measured and input into the different sections of the system to run through, Somnia readjusting several of the connections as they processed in the initial stages.

She grabbed her knife once more, stabbing her leg and lodging the blade inside as she bled onto the runes. Once activated, she moved back over to the other alchemy equipment to make sure it was processing correctly. With everything in order, she impatiently waited as the ingredients processed. Heart’s Desire, Angel Petals, Soulsand, and various minor ingredients. There was no other choice but to accept that all Tartarus would break loose.

The midas agent pooled above the rune-slate, signalling Somnia to grab the ground-up mana crystal dust to activate the slate beneath. She prayed her instructions as the temperature of the room dropped, before sharply increasing as a portal to Tartarus itself was opened. She waited as the midas agent changed from yellow, to red, to a deep green, energies from the unholy place flowing from the portal into the brewed liquid above with various screams of the damned being heard.

Closing the portal, she began sending the solution back through the system, combining with the processed angel petals and soulsand. Five minutes since leaving for the lab, another five to get back. She hoped the next stage wouldn’t begin until thirty, giving her a few minute window before a choice needed to be made.

The liquid got to the centrifuge where Somnia switched it on and waited for it to finish, holding her head in her hooves. She could vaguely sense the energies of Tartarus beginning to worsen. Moving over to the control center, she donned her saddlebags and a modified energy pistol while she waited for it to finish processing, slowly prepping herself for what she would have to do. Every part of her was afraid to confront what she could only describe as demons in-the-flesh. While not alone, it would still be excruciating to protect as many as possible.

Or so she hoped.

A ding alerted her to the finished potion. Moving back to the lab, she poured it out into one of the enchanted vials she recovered from Grar’s lab and proceeded over to one of the locked fridges where she grabbed several omni-heal potions to take with her. Prepared as she ever would be, she bolted back upstairs, not bothering to close the lab before galloping through the forests and fields between Ponyville and Canterlot at the speed of sound.

A pulse signaled the breaking of the sound barrier, her using the railway tracks to get back up the mountain and to Canterlot, jumping over the wall. She made sure her legs took the full brunt of the impact, temporarily halting her in place. A few bystanders looked over curiously, but she was only there for a few full seconds before bolting again.

Forty seconds.

As she burst open the door to the boutique, she saw several ponies turn toward her. Once she moved past them, she returned to regular speed as she reached Twilight and her friends. Her mother moved on to hyperventilating, on the verge of passing out.

“Drink this!” Somnia took out the vial of a nearly black liquid, passing it to Fluttershy for administering. Carefully forcing Twilight to drink it, the yellow pegasus was relieved when Twilight grabbed it and chugged it down.

Not needing to see anymore, Somnia put her saddlebags down and walked outside where she waited for the time to elapse.

Five. Four... Buck this. Buck this!

She didn’t dare open her eyes as a portal to Tartarus was opened a street over, then another, then a third, fourth... up to the eighth. Exactly as many as necessary. Her hooves moved at the speed of lightning toward the first portal, impacting the Tartarus beast that tried leaving with her hoof, breaking whatever skull it had. She moved from portal to portal in the hopes to keep them back from leaving that street as they tried pouring out.

After a minute of suppressing them, all eight closed, and a single large one opened. A gargantuan beast exited followed by its lesser spawn. Opening her eyes, Somnia gagged from the rotten mound of mismatched body parts and patchy flesh that oozed puss and blood. She could see the residents of the street in her mind’s eye, the sheer level of mental anguish they were undergoing not enviable.

I hope you’re ready. That thing is a proper lesser chaotic entity. Grar commented as the creature grinned down at her with its misshapen bloody teeth.

Shdy sdusdowkj hfuejkdfngt dufudjk. It mocked as its creatures gathered around or scurried into the side streets. Somnia could already see pegasus guards approaching from all directions via the air, but they couldn’t handle something like this. Their purpose was for cleanup.

Bring it, you bastard! Somnia activated her magical aura and charged the beast at the speed of sound. It was only barely able to keep up with her speed of motion as she impacted its legs, moving up its body as it grabbed her back leg with one of its stray arms. She could feel the very flesh corrupting by the touch, but couldn’t pay attention to that at the moment. Using her overcharged energy pistol, she plunged her hoof into a weak point on its back and fired.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Rainbow kept her ears covered as an intense drone crippled everypony in the room, all except for Twilight and Pinkie.

“It, ah. It ain’t that bad.” Applejack winced from the pain, crawling along the floor to hold Rainbow Dash.

“This was supposed to be my grand opening...” Rarity cried, holding her head while she shook on the ground. “Why now?! Why today?!”

Out of the four, Fluttershy was eerily quiet, sitting with her eyes closed and regulating her breathing as best she could against the psychological onslaught. The others in attendance for the grand opening huddled into balls, cried, screamed, held their head, or any combination of the four.

“Why aren’t you hurting like them?” Twilight asked her pink friend.

“Hehe... don’t know?” She gave an unconvincing laugh while picking up Somnia’s saddlebags to check the contents, putting the saddlebags on her own back.

After a minute, the droning ended and the door to the boutique broke open. The occupants turned over and began screaming in terror as a Tartarus beast lunged at one reporter, skewering them in its unholy talons, ripping them in half to spill blood and guts along the floor.

It lunged at Fluttershy just as a brilliant blast of light turned it to ash, Celestia entering from the outside. “Twilight! Somnia!”

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight galloped over to her mentor as they stepped over the corpse of the unfortunate pony. “What’s going on?! Where’s Somnia?!”

“Probably Tartarus.” Celestia shook her head. “I’ve sent Luna to retrieve her from within. What caused all of this?”

“I-I don’t know. I was...” She let out a gasp, realizing what her daughter must have done. “Somnia gave me a potion.”

“What kind of potion?” Celestia narrowed her eyes.

“I-I was having a heart attack because of my condition, and she went to get something to heal me.” Twilight stared at the bloody top half of the deceased pony beyond Celestia, her voice going faint at their fading eyes. “She caused this to save me.”

Celestia stepped past her student toward the other elements. “We need to get you all to the castle. The streets aren’t safe with those monsters loose. The guard is trying to eliminate them, but I’m afraid that is going to take some time.”

“W-What about us, princess?” One mare from the floor asked, standing up on shaky legs along with the nearly two dozen others in attendance. “A-Are we going to be safe?”

“Rarity. Open the backroom for them.” Celestia commanded before turning back to the mare with a mother-like smile. “I want all of you to shelter in place and defend yourselves to the last. They will give you no mercy should they find you, so fight with everything you have. Five guards will arrive within the next hour to protect the premises and you. Do not be alarmed by their appearance. They are completely loyal to the crown.”

The other elements followed Celestia past the dead body outside where they heard laser fire and saw smoke rising from other areas nearby. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity all climbed onto the regal sister who took flight with the others. Ascending above the nearest buildings, they saw the extent of the damage.

The explosion they heard not long after the droning started had reduced several buildings around it to burning rubble and ignited several more into a torrent of flames. Smoke from other parts of the city rose while pegasus guards and Wonderbolts flew from site to site, scouring the city for the other monsters.

Twilight dared to look down as she flew, seeing the occasional bloodied corpse on the streets below or similar monstrous creatures darting between the alleyways as royal guards pursued them. She spotted a guard get ambushed by a creature, blood splattering around them right before other nearby unicorn guards fired lasers into the beast, angering it further.

The group landed in front of the castle gate, which was the only part not covered by a massive shield erected by the castle defenders, opening to solar and lunar guards which galloped or flew into the city behind while they trotted past.

Celestia took them all into the throne room, several nobles anxiously pacing around the chamber. She floated the saddlebags Pinkie had grabbed, checking the contents before she passed them to a guard. “Get these to the medics and hospitals. Only the worst hurt should receive them.”

“Princess! What is going on?!” Fancy Pants demanded.

“Lord Fancy Pants, please, I barely know myself.” Celestia walked past him and sat upon the temporary throne setup at the base of the actual throne. “Twilight?” She motioned for her student to take the seat next to her. Once seated, Celestia asked. “What happened? What condition? Does it have to do with your pregnancy?”

“Princess Twilight’s pregnant?” Fancy Pants raised a brow.

“Somnia told me about a fungus in my horn.” She touched the suppressant ring. “It’s why I can’t use magic and we had to cancel the weapon demonstration. I retained water, and my heart felt like it was...” Twilight shook her head. “A-Anyway, she said it had to do with me being a unicorn-type alicorn, and that I developed a more severe version. She left Fluttershy and Applejack with me while she went to her lab, then she came back with that potion and her saddlebags.”

“Harmony’s Bane.” Celestia nodded. “I know the condition. Luna–“ She bit her tongue, resulting in a deep regretful sigh. “When Luna was pregnant in our youth, she developed the condition. Unfortunately, her foal was a stillborn, but she had to go a few years without magic while the fungus went away.”

“Luna had a foal?! But I thought–“ Twilight cut herself off as Celestia raised a hoof.

“Even the most regal make mistakes. She retook her vow of celibacy following that event, and it took me years to get her comfortable around other foals.” Celestia floated over a few papers to examine. “It’s not public knowledge, for what should be obvious reasons.”

“Clearly there is a lot that we in the inner circle haven’t been told.” Fancy Pants added, looking between the two while the other elements finished being checked out by the two castle nurses in the room. “It really shouldn’t surprise me after what’s happened these past few months.”

“What happened after you drank the potion?” Celestia put the papers down and turned to her pupil.

“I-I don’t know. I blacked out for a moment, and when I woke up, I saw my friends and all those other ponies on the ground screaming. Then an explosion happened outside, and then that monster...” She bit back the tears. “W-Where’s Somnia?”

“I told you, Tartarus.” Celestia smiled down at her. “I now see what she did. She caused that explosion to destroy the physical form of herself and the Tartarus Lord to force them to fight in personal combat with their souls. She must have closed the gate from the other side after bringing it back through. Don’t worry, she’ll be back in a few days at worst.”

“How do you know? She could be–”

“She’ll be fine. She’s a partially developed Grand Councilor with half of the second most powerful creature on Equus attached to her. Probably won't even have difficulty getting back.” Celestia cut Twilight off, turning back to the paperwork she was eyeing over. “Unfortunately, that means our plans will have to be put off. The high command will want to speak with Somnia about her constant endangerment of Equestria.”

“She’s responsible for all of this?” Fancy Pants stood up straighter. “The city is under attack by monstrosities, ponies are dying, and not only is it because of her, but she also isn’t even here to help?!”

“She did it to save me and her sibling!” Twilight shot back.

“Trust me, Lord Fancy Pants, she will be receiving punishment for this.” Celestia rubbed between her eyes. “Even though I understand her reasons, this was reckless, well beyond what other ponies would be willing to dismiss.”

“What will you do to her?” Twilight grabbed her mentor’s foreleg, pleading with her eyes. “She didn’t–”

“Nothing serious. She will simply need to understand the full consequences of her actions.” Celestia bit her cheek. “I was thinking of making her attend the funerals of every pony killed by her recklessness and then performing some charity trips for the crown. Seems fitting - in a poetic way - after what she did to Luna.”

The statement only deepened Twilight’s concern. “What did she do?”

“That is neither here nor there.” Celestia dismissed, tugging her foreleg free. “The guards will show you and your friends to your rooms. I’ll send somepony to bring you back down for the debrief with Captain Stampede and Captain Thorn.”

The great metal doors opened wide, screeching from the magical exertion put upon them. With a sigh, Luna walked into the darkened halls of what little remained of the Tartarian prison complex. Cages stacked to either side with various dangerous magical creatures, keeping her eyes forward on the puppy ahead of her that panted in excitement at her approach.

“Hello again, Cerberus.” She stopped to give each of the three heads some pets, receiving a flurry of wet licks in return and laughing. “It’s nice to see you too!”

She continued down to the first ‘cell’ with the caged centaur that caused so much concern in times past. “Tirek, have any visitors today?”

“What do you think, princess?” He asked with as much venom as possible while glaring at her. “Come to gloat for the fourth time this week?”

Her grin turned up, deciding to throw him a bone. “Actually, I’ve been coming by for Queen Somnia.” She walked around his cage, Tirek following her with his eyes until she disappeared behind him. “The one alicorn you missed and who you nearly killed by accident.”

“Sounds like another lie fabricated by you to try throwing me off when I get out of here.” He gave a devilish grin on her way back around into his sight. “If I almost killed her by accident, she can’t be that much of a threat.”

“Oh?” Luna stopped in front of his cage. “Do you know where she is right now? Likely fighting her way through the chasms below us toward the Steps of Kronos or already on her way back up.”

“Likely story...” He tilted his head to peer past Luna, his brow furrowing. “And who would this be?”

Turning, Luna saw the ash covered filly with a scowl on her face and a bag slung over her back. “Somnia, so glad of you to join us.”

“Gee. Thanks.” She walked over to the two, standing next to Luna to stare at the centaur. “Who are you?”

“An innocent soul the princesses of Equestria–”

“Tirek.” Luna answered. “Remember back when the library blew up?”

“I wish I couldn’t.” The filly stepped forward, the ash falling from her as it turned into sand. “Ya know, you’re lucky nopony was killed when you stole our magic.”

“It’s not luck. I deliberately didn’t drain them to the point of death. I’m not a changeling.” He sneered. “And just what are you supposed to be? I never heard of a fifth alicorn in Equestria, even from that fool Discord.”

“Ever heard of ‘The Cyclical Truth’?” She raised a brow, the centaur raising his own.

“You know of the so-called ‘holy text’ of the gargoylian priesthood? You are very well educated for a filly.”

“It’s good to see at least one society remembers the Harmonic Empire. Well, I’m one of the Grand Councilors it mentioned.” She turned back to Luna. “Can we go home now?”

“Depends. What’s in the bag?” Luna pointed to it, the bag moving a little on its own.

“A lost soul.” Somnia turned and walked back toward the door, her eyes shimmering. “Lost, but now found.”

“It was good speaking again, Tirek. I’ll make sure to come back in another four hundred years.” Luna turned from the scowling centaur and followed the filly. Once at the door, she opened it up, the two stepping out into the fading sunlight before it closed.

Somnia sat down and took a deep breath as she carefully removed the bag, staring at the creature within. Unfolding it completely, she pulled out a sleeping foal and checked them for injuries.

“Would you mind telling me who that is?” Luna pointed at the foal in Somnia’s hooves.

“I don’t know.” She cradled the foal in her forelegs. “I really don’t, but they aren’t corrupted. Can we stop by the Ponyville orphanage on our way back? I don’t want them to be too far from me.”

“Why does it matter where they are? There’s nopony who even knows they exist.” Luna stepped closer, sitting down next to Somnia to brush the orange hair on the green furred foal. She could see Somnia’s face contorting as she examined the foal, her own heart aching at what the filly must be feeling. “Alright, we can stop by the orphanage.”

“Thank you.” Somnia whispered, turning up to Luna. “And I’m sorry for what I did to you. I-I was just so mad, I wasn’t–”

“Shhhh...” Luna put a wing around her. “You have every right to be mad about what I did. I’m just happy to hear that you are moving past it, as I will.”

“Thanks.” She leaned her head onto Luna as the foal stirred from their deep sleep, opening their eyes to the two ponies providing gentle smiles to them, and bursting into wailing tears. Somnia giggled. “I think somepony’s hungry.”

Luna stood back up, reaching out a hoof. “Then let’s not keep their meal waiting.”

Bonus: Tartarus

Author's Note

Rip and Tear, Until it is Done

Bonus: Tartarus

The moment the energy pistol vaporized, the world went dark except for her soul-sight, her very essence being freed from mortal shackles. Grar’s magic tendrils extended to grab onto the vaporized Tartarus Lord, hers following behind to latch on to the shrieking eldritch horror. While it tried to heal, it fought back against their pulling. The portal was right behind them. They only needed to keep going.

An illusory headache came over Somnia’s mind. It wouldn’t win today. No, she would stop it from killing hundreds or thousands of innocent ponies, even if it meant going to Tartarus itself.

The tugging got her on the other side, that headache spreading into a full-grown, soul-wide migraine as she kept pulling. Chaotic energies swarmed around her, ripples spreading over her spirit, yet her grip remained. The Tartarus Lord finally pulled through with them, the gate closing behind. Somnia let go and floated away toward where the other chaotic spawn were, following the vines of chaotic energy to know where the tunnels were relative to her.

Tartarus... Now that she had a moment to think as she retreated past the chaotic spawn in the halls, she was utterly unprepared.

G-Grar? H-How do we get out? She stopped in a series of tunnels with no creatures around her, waiting as her soul started sparking, each bolt bringing another strike of pain to her mind.

There are several exits, only two of the four matter, though. Either we get to the Steps of Kronos or Angel’s Relief. But first, we need to figure out where we are.

The first traces of matter began forming from the sparks she was emitting, her mind going fuzzy as it reconstructed her piece-by-piece. The first part to form was her back-half, where the cutie mark was located, working its way upward as she gritted herself against the pulsating agony consuming her with every muscle. When it reached her brain, it finally gave her the first sense of relative relief with the pain in her fully formed back-half being reduced only to an aching, the rest still grinding at her as the head finished reforming and senses returned.

The darkness surrounded her, or rather, the oily, black rock making up the walls did. There was a glowing vein of minerals in the opposite wall, her teeth gritting together as she stood onto her hooves and wobbled. Her body could feel the radiation it gave off, tingling through her flesh as it bathed her in near lethal amounts and killing cells on-mass. She reached out with her mind, seeing... not a lot. The chaotic energies limited her soul-sight to within a dozen poni, and trying to see the future or past was pointless with the horrors cropping up from the mere attempt.

Somnia? Grar spoke up, reminding her of what she was doing from the haze of her thoughts. We need to get to a larger chamber. If we can find some of the deep fortresses, I may be able to figure out where we are. I’m not too familiar with the layout of the complete underground, so that is our best shot.

Y-Yeah. L-Large chamber. Fortresses. Um, h-how many Tartarus Lords are there? Her hooves carried her away from the direction she came, headed... anywhere. The physical darkness continued to grow as she traveled until she entered a medium-sized room with a lava pool in the center and chaotic spawn surrounding it. They were... Her stomach turned in on itself.

Once upon a time, they may have been able to be called ponies, but with their flesh absent, replaced by rusted metal and spikes that dug inside of their remaining green and purple rotten corpses, it really was hard to tell. They were only ‘alicorns’ in the technical sense, the wings, horns, or both attached to them being from other creatures and decayed to a similar degree as the rest.

Somnia leapt into the chamber to make an impact with the first, crushing its skull into the rock below with a splatter of dark red blood that stung her hide. The others responding by... fleeing. Most seemed to go into the tunnel she had come from, but a few of the dozen scurried off into the opposite one. Shivers ran up her spine as she sensed a Tartarus Lord closing in on her location from the tunnel she left, hooves bolting for the other tunnel.

With her advanced speed, she impacted one cultist to break every bone in their body and slam them into the tunnel wall with a burst of red, cracking the rock to collapse onto both her and the remaining spawn. Rocks struck her from above, crushing her newly reformed body under their weight and snapping bones, yet she punched her way through to the other side, backing up, taking deep breaths.

The collapsed rocks sealed the tunnel, but she knew better than to trust rocks to hold back a Tartarus Lord. To answer your question, probably over a million spread across the underworld, and hundreds of million more spawn.

Shit... A-And how far do you think we’ll need to go? She proceeded down the black tunnel, avoiding more groups of chaotic spawn as she trekked. It seemed like they never ended. How far below the ground was she? How deep was that lord she pissed off?

Som, the Steps of Kronos are seven kiloponi high, and the deepest part is nearly a hundred-twenty below the surface.

“Buck!” she called out into the halls, her voice echoing down them, a nearby screech of–

Her ears popped in a gush of blood at the pitch and volume, soul-sight searching until the thing came into view. It was a rounded quadruped, its body shrinking as it let out another screech into the air that cracked her bones and teeth at the sound. Somnia jumped around the corner, grabbing the smooth, leathery creature and slamming them into the ground into a pool of blood and viscera, her soul distorting as the death screech emitted from its remains.

Somnia moved back to the wall, putting her hoof on it to steady herself before throwing up all her new stomach acid and blood onto the obsidian rocks below. Why? Why here? What monster- Oh, yeah, Entropis. Bucking Entropis.

Somnia. We need to keep moving. The screech alerted its own Tartarus Lord to our location. I know it feels horrible, but this isn’t even the bad part.

T-T-Then what is?

Start walking. She did as ordered, making her way along the cavern walls until she sensed the lord, a beast resembling a gargantuan spider crashing through the tunnel up ahead. Scars ran deep along its bony legs, its torso the conglomeration of three pony bodies fused together, blending into one another with pulsing darkened veins between them. Its eyes settled on her, the fanged grin on all three of its heads growing.

hrew webcowh fjweotdpo bdsfsbiuq?

“BUCK OFF!” She charged it, grabbing one leg and tearing it from their body, them leaping back and spraying her with yellow and purple bile from its mouth. The migraine returned in full-force along with a near crippling amount of pain that consumed her physical body and mind. Somnia took several steps back as she healed, it jumping forward and impaling her with one of its legs, throwing her down the tunnel with a burst of sound to impact another stone wall, cracking it before she fell to the ground limp.

Ow. Grar said to break her from the haze of pain she was going through. Can you get up? Somnia? Are you awake?

“Ugh...” She stood up, stumbling on her hooves as the lord returned, grabbing her to lift into the air. Every sense dulled, even soul-sight shot right before another massive spike of agony consumed her from the core outward. She screamed into the tunnels, feeling the chaotic energies seeping into her flesh to corrupt what it could. Somnia lashed out to break another leg, it dropping her before more acid sprayed against her body, again causing her to screech as it moved forward again, this time vomiting up even more onto her.

Not a single piece of flesh, bone, or spirit wasn’t in total, mind-shattering pain, her soul throbbing and body trembling as she tried fighting against passing out. Talons went around her, crunching into her form to carry her off with them, the raw juices from its grip sending her mind reeling against itself.

Still, she was healing in other parts of her, and once her right foreleg was able, she lurched to throw a punch into its face, getting it to drop her to the ground as its screech sent her into a huddled ball. It was too much. Coming here was a mistake. Please make it stop. Please. P-Please... G-Grar? C-Can you hear me?

The beast moved to grab her again, this time Somnia swinging her hoof to shatter one head, the lord stumbling back as she got to her hooves. B-Buck you. Buck everything y-you stand for, a-and for every pony you’ve ever hurt! Her teeth gritted together as she turned her hate-filled eyes from the purple-coated rock to see the head on the lord reform, along with the legs she broke, with even more extending from its front segment.

Her shaking legs turned and ran as far and fast as she could, passing into a web-filled chamber with cocoons leaking blood dripping from above. One hoof touched a web, getting her to stumble over as it stuck in place, sending her over herself to get one on her back as she flipped over. Her pulling did nothing, not even with her strength. Her mind let out a transmutation of the material, turning it into sticky sand, but she couldn’t get it off her entirely.

Hundreds of spiders from the size of a cockroach to pony-sized ones began emerging from their webs. Her eyes glazed along the black and red carapaces, breathing getting shallow before the first jumped. She tried opening her mouth to say something, but the beast made impact a half-second later; it biting into her and disintegrating a leg off her body and onto the ground.

She grabbed its head and slammed it into the ground with a burst of blue that boiled her very fur and hide to slog off onto the reddened rock below, a dozen more jumping at her.

Her hoof transmuted the first to sand as the next made impact with her to send her tumbling over, her hoof coming down to pierce straight through the next’s body and into the rock below. The next two shot webs at her that coated her side, again transmuted into a glue-like sand that fell to the floor. She turned to leap back at them, grabbing one to lift high into the air before slamming it down on the other, turning and bolting from the chamber.

Her muscles ached, even as her leg... didn’t reform. Spiders were crawling all over her, biting every part of her they could and numbing sensation. A burst of transmutation energy killed them off as she leapt forward and repeated the process. Her hooves took her deep into the tunnels until she arrived at a dark, empty chamber, and taking a moment lay down next to one of the glowing crystals to shiver and shake as her leg restoring sent entire waves of pulsating throbs to her mind.

The pain still made her tremble without an end in sight, every ache still gnawing at her. G-Grar?

S-Som. W-We need... We need to get out of here. His weak voice brought out a massive surge of anxiety to spike through her chest.

W-Wait! You felt a-all that?!

This is Tartarus. I bucking hate this place. That fact you’re surviving at all is a bucking miracle.

Somnia clutched at her core body, still feeling the talons when they dug inside her. It didn’t... Her eyes widened as she realized, transmuting her insides to sand then back to how they were, what flesh that reformed corrupting in an instant. Eggs... It implanted her with BUCKING EGGS!

W-Why didn’t you t-tell me this was Tartarus?

You saw what Entropis did to Excalicorn. You knew how bad it was. Just because he isn’t around to make more Tartarus Lords doesn’t mean that those that exist here get any weaker.

B-Buck me. P-Please tell me I’m not going to g-get raped by tentacles.

I-I’m sorry. I can’t.

After several minutes, or rather, three hours of sitting still to readjust, she stood back up to walk down the tunnels. The energies didn’t get any better, the ambient field getting thicker as she went. Fog started appearing in the tunnels to fill her physical vision. Her trek encountered the occasional drying lava pool, a patrol or three of fleshy chaotic spawn, chambers with more damn spiders, and then what she was looking for.

As she stepped out onto the balcony, she took a deep breath in. No less than seven Tartarus Lords were in her sight down below, fighting a gargantuan battle with thousands of spawn across a lake of pitch-black water and blood-soaked stone. Hundreds of other balconies poked into the chamber along the edges, an entire city capable of being fit inside the lake area alone. And at the far end, a bastion built into the rock with hundreds of flying spawn surrounding it.

Good news: We’re near the Steps of Kronos by a few hundred kiloponi. Bad news? It’s through that bastion, and if it still has what it had before, there should be a breeder lord inside that structure.

“H-How far are we from it, exactly?” She planted her hooves and leapt up to another balcony, grabbing the screecher before they could make a noise and throwing them off to tumble below, sending shivers all along her spine as it let loose its attack.

There’s another chamber on the other side of there. You will need to take the stone ruins to yet another couple of chambers and then cross paths with a Tartarus Lord that is less active than their brethren, assuming they are still alive.

“A-And how do you know this?” Another leap onto an empty balcony even higher up.

The Harmonic Empire mapped most of Tartarus over the dozens of millennia it’s been contained, and I’ve been here. Where do you think we mined soulsand from? Biwandiso Mine IS Tartarus, just a developed part where we maintained a presence.

Somnia kept up her leaps, every so often grabbing a chaotic spawn to throw off, including a breeder that was watching the battle down below while masturbating itself. But she eventually had to make a choice. The last balcony she got to turned a corner, and the bastion was across the chasm. Her grin turned up as she cleared her throat. “HEY! OVER HERE! COME AND GET ME YOU DUMB BIRDS!”

A sizable portion of the flock broke off to head for her, that grin twitching away as she realized... they were pretty damn big. Like twice the size of Celestia big. The first she leapt at broke with the impact, her hooves pushing off of them to grab onto the bleeding-sharp spikes that served as talons of another. She kept climbing the rocky outcroppings of the beast until she got on top. The birds had flown back, seeming to have forgotten about her, carrying her close to her destination.

She grabbed a hold of the back of the creature’s head, turning it in the direction she wanted as it struggled. After some resistance, it eventually turned over, Somnia dropping from it to land on one of the bleeding bricks that made up a balcony to the palace. Her heart pounded away as she entered inside, dreading to–

Tentacles wrapped around her legs, a mass of tendrils with a massive, toothy mouth coming around from behind to stare her down even as she shook. Blood dripped from its fangs, a low growl emitting for her ears to hear.

uoneacuh qhonqerodfh aoherooaw.

Somnia tried pulling her hooves free, finding it was much stronger than the other one and able to overpower even her full strength. She closed her tearing eyes as she felt the tendrils move closer. But it didn’t come, instead the creature only cocooning them around her to carry her off deeper.

Shit. This is bad.

No bucking shit!

She tried again to break free, getting one of her hooves to transmute a tentacle. The beast briefly let go of her, which is when she punched straight through the slimy appendages blocking her vision. It let go fully before it forced her to the floor, four tentacles going for her rear and forcing themselves inside her ass and vagina. Her wings extended at the sensation, hoof moving to grab the tentacles to pull them free from her, and tearing them straight from the monster’s body.

Another set impacted her to send her into the wall, breaking every bone as it pinned her down, three going for her vagina and one for her anus, another two for her mouth, forcing it to stay open as one made its way down her throat and into her stomach. Its mouth moved over her belly, chewing in for more to enter, her tears rolling down her face as her entire body trembled. The writhing inside her only got worse with it ejaculating into every piece of her, filling her mind with all that happened.

Except this time she could fight back. She tried her best to redirect every thought away from what was happening, even emotion, yet the corrupting energies forced the memories to the surface. Every single day played out before her, every time a merc thrust into her body and beat her to the ground. Her trembling form couldn’t stop the tears, all thoughts prioritizing escape.

She could feel its slime filling her, its vile cum leaking from her marehood and anus to the ground below. Her hooves pinned, mouth unable to be closed due to the leathery slime tentacles harder than solid rock, and body being ravaged from four holes. With one last push, she freed a hoof and grabbed its chitinous head, pulling free a plate with a sickening snap, unleashing a blistering scream into the bleeding halls of the bastion.

Its head moved back for only a moment, at which point she grabbed the tentacles on her other forehoof to transmute it free, both now grabbing the ones inside her lower-half. She pulled herself along it as the tendrils pulsed inside her, filling her with more of its semen and juices, yet she kept going. It tried grabbing her with other tendrils, ones she grabbed and tore off as soon as they touched her.

And then she got to the body. With one hoof, she plunged in through the plates and into its flesh, transmuting everything she could to the strongest acid she knew of. Its screech rippled the very air, letting go of her back-legs, at which point she forced them down on the tentacles currently inside her, pulling them free.

She grabbed two tentacles within her mouth and tore them off and down onto the floor, impacting the teeth of its jaw with her hoof to knock more free. It wrapped its tendrils around her, Somnia spinning with them to buck it directly in the center of its single eye, getting it to let go. The moment she hit the ground, she took off running.

She took a deep breath in as she looked upon the fortress stretching from the lava below to the spiky ceiling above. The aches never went away. After three days of getting lost, getting attacked, and feeling the anxiety coursing through her every second of every day, all she wanted to do was go home and go to bed.

When we get out, I’m dumping all these memories away into their own section and forgetting about them.

Same here, Som. Same here...

According to Grar, this was the last fortress in her path. The last two chambers she ‘explored’ had junk lying around, as if ponies over millennia just teleported their garbage into... Wait, that would explain why Equestria doesn’t have landfills. Bucking hypocrites! ‘Don’t do any magic related to Tartarus while we open holes to dump our crap into it.’ There was literal crap too, the sewage still giving a foul taste in her mouth.

Somnia positioned her hooves and made the leap to the next rocky outcropping, jumping from one to another until she got to the lava lake, at which point she jumped down. She landed on a cooled section of rock before catapulting herself to the next, all the way until she embedded her hooves into the stones. Tartarus was harder than regular rock. It healed itself, changed tunnels on a whim, filled with dangers from spawn to lords, but this was it.

Once she got to a window, she climbed inside and took a moment to breathe. So close, yet there was still a seven kiloponi hike ahead of her. Tartarus was an important lesson, that was for certain. She’s not invincible, she’s not all-powerful. Couldn’t stop the first Tartarus Lord from showing up and chasing her, the second from attempting to use her as a host, or from being raped a-again–

No, stop. She shut her eyes, letting out a sob, hooves covering those eyes as they produced more tears. Four days... No sleep, little rest, not a single friendly face or soul anywhere in the entire underground except Grar. How many times did she break down crying since being violated? A dozen in four days? Why is this her life?

Yet, it wasn’t the end. She fought back. The Tartarus Lord that raped her would die one day by her will, and it’s not like it hurt her body with any permanence, unlike the mercenaries.

With one last sniffle, she got up and walked down the halls. While she wanted to run, the act of changing her time perception also alerted other entities to where she was, as she found out when she got swarmed by a thousand spawn sent by a war-lord. Somnia pushed open the door to a chamber, taking a deep breath in. No lord, and... is that a foal? She squinted at the little foal floating in the air, suspended inside some sort of stasis trap. They were young, not even a year old from their size.

Was it an experiment? She checked the rest of the chamber, finding a bunch of old junk from the scrap heaps. No. Were they thrown out?! Her muzzle scrunched up as she searched the garbage, finding a cloth sack with... a light enough stain. She gave it one sniff and cringed. Semen. Somnia returned to the stasis pod and looked it up and down before punching straight through, the field falling as it short-circuited.

She slowed time to jump up and grab the foal into the bag, putting them onto her back with both her wings extended to hold them in place. After securing the bag around her neck and between her wings, her hooves took her through the halls, avoiding her temporal abilities to give away her position anymore and to make sure the foal was fine. Green and orange, earthlite, colt... Why? Why would somepony throw out their own baby? What sick, twisted parent would do such a thing?

She pushed open another set of doors to reveal an ashy wasteland with a gargantuan set of white metarock spiral stairs at the other end. Her hooves pushed her through the ash that covered her from the mouth down, grateful it protected the foal from the worst of it, unlike her, covering everything from her mane to the bag to her wings. The taste of shit at least got out of her mouth to be replaced by the dust, and it no doubt would get the rest of the webbing off her from day three’s spider nest cocooning.

Somnia took a deep breath once she reached the stairs, stepping up onto them and carrying her... What was he to her? Prize? Ward? Little baby angel?

Son? Her eyes watered up as she marched up the steps. Son sounded right. He was unwanted by his parents, left to die in a place as horrible as Tartarus. Nopony was looking out for him. He could have been experimented on or worse, but now...

The tears rolled down her cheeks as she kept her pace going. The thoughts kept looping back in on themselves, preventing her from letting go. She always wanted a foal of her own... Did it matter if blood related them to her? He... H-He could call her mommy and give her hugs, and she would always be there for him, no matter what. Her sweet baby colt. But that would have to wait. Her mom and dad wouldn’t let her take care of a foal no matter how much she asked, at least if it wasn’t forced on them by her getting pregnant.

Somnia went up two kiloponi before reaching a landing, her halfhearted smile ticking up at the sight. A three-headed machine towered above her, faced toward what it guards against. The C.E.R.B.E.R.U.S. unit assigned to this facility. Chaotic Entrapment, Repudiation, and Bypass Emergent Resource Unit Secretary. Standing fifty poni high, with a white exoskeleton and three canine-looking heads of pure engineering superiority, the guardian stood watch to prevent chaotic entities from harming the surface.

She knew she was already free of taint. It was something Grar told her to work on earlier that day, and the foal didn’t seem to be tainted at all from what she could sense.

Only one way to know for certain. Somnia moved forward and under the legs of the hound. It didn’t even move, yet she could sense the aura it emitted rippling over her in rapid waves, sending chills down every part of her. Magic and technology made into one grand force to surpass any other.

I wonder if the units in Excalicorn and the Chillrend Mountains are still functional.

I wouldn’t know, but Excalion might.

Grar stayed quiet most of the way back up. When she finally started making her way past the black stone pillars that supported the ‘cells,’ he asked one last thing of her.

What are you planning to do with the foal?

I... I think I’ll adopt him when I’m old enough.

He kept quiet a moment. I think that’s a wonderful idea. You’ll be a great mom, Somnia.

Thanks, Grar. I appreciate it.

She passed by the empty cells toward where she heard two ponies talking, one getting a cringe out of her. Luna. Wonderful...

As she stepped up, her frown stayed focused behind the princess’ back.

“Likely story...” The centaur in the cage tilted his head to peer past Luna, his brow furrowing. “And who would this be?”

Turning, Luna saw the ash covered filly with a scowl on her face and a bag slung over her back.

“Somnia, so glad of you to join us.”

Chapter 33: One for the Road

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

Prologue: Distant Memories

The forest was quiet, hardly any noises piercing the calmness surrounding the hunter. A slight rustle of the leaves from the wind passing overhead, distant birds chirping in the branches of the trees, the dirt shuffling under her hooves as she crept through the underbrush, and what she was waiting for: a snapping twig. She set off running in the sound's direction, keeping her ears on high alert in case it was another false-alarm. Weaving between the trees, she caught sight of her target’s long red mane as they attempted to flee towards the extraction point.

Gotcha.

She took off into a run parallel with her prey. Each step was deliberate to avoid getting caught in the roots, the very act of motion predicted before the muscles in her legs even moved. The thief wasn’t as fortunate, often getting their mane caught on stray branches or stumbling on the roots as they ran. The target left sight somewhere behind her, giving a chance to execute the next part of the plan.

Slowing down at a clearing ahead of her prey, she hid behind a tree and lied in wait. Leaves crunching under the thief’s steps gave away their position, slowing their pace to make sure they weren’t walking into a trap. Their pursuer sat absolutely silent, holding her tail against her body lest it give away her location. The dirty thief had been on the run for over two hours with brief bouts of activity where she got close, but never close enough.

Now!

Rolling out of her hiding spot directly to in front of her target, she followed it up by tackling the surprised thief into the leaves and dried mud. They struggled against the pony on-top of them but ultimately gave up, already exhausted from the chase.

It’s all mine. She donned a smug grin.

“Ugh, can you please let me win one time?” Fae whined as she hoofed over the quarter-eaten chocolate bar to her bestie.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Somnia said right before sinking her teeth into the chocolaty goodness. Its sweet flavor rolled down her tongue, sweetened evermore by another victory.

“I’m too tired to keep running around like this. Can we please take a break?” The red-maned filly picked twigs from her mane, earning a giggle from Somnia.

Helping Fae from the ground, Somnia hoofed her the remaining half of the chocolate bar. “Sure, it’s getting a bit late. We should probably get back home before sunset. I do NOT want to wash the dishes for a whole moon.”

Fae happily consumed the rest of the chocolate bar as the two made their way back to the clearing where their chaperone waited, Somnia picking out stray leaves and twigs that got caught in Fae’s mane as they walked. The sun gradually fell in the sky. However, it would still be another hour before the sun and moon traded places to end the day and bring about the night.

Somnia loved spending time with Fae, even though they got in trouble most of the time for coming home late. It had been too long since they last hung out, but her friend would find time to talk to her where she could between the formal events and lessons. The two of them had been born around the same time, Somnia being older than Fae by a few days, which was an amusing thought to the young filly, given that Fae was technically her aunt. They were the best of friends from when they were little foals and would be until Fae passed away from the sands of time.

Without warning, a chill ran down Somnia’s spine. She stopped in her tracks and closed her eyes to block out the world around her while she focused. Fae turned to her. “What is it this time? Another unexpected rainfall?” She said with sarcasm, her chipper attitude faltering at the scrunched face of her friend.

Grar? What is it? What am I seeing? Somnia asked to her mind, earning only silence from her faithful companion. In her mind’s eye, she witnessed a dark storm consuming Excalicorn, creatures of shadow descending upon the city. Bright beams of energy lanced from the defenders futilely to stop the coming end. It was the dream all over again, in all its horror. And all its implications.

She opened her eyes and turned to the skies above. Dark clouds had already begun forming in the sky close to the city center. Fae stared at the clouds, fearful of what it could mean. “S-Som? What’s happening?”

T-They can be wrong, right? Somnia tried to reach her other best friend, but received nothing in return. Where are you?! Talk to me! A large gust of wind came from behind them, Fae turning around briefly before bolting ahead. “RUUUUUN!”

Following her without another word, Somnia took a brief look backward and saw it. The monster from her dreams with the shape of the archmage glided rapidly across the ground toward them with a wicked grin on its face. The shadows the beast trailed behind took on the shapes of indescribable monsters, seeking only to destroy all life. Trees and bushes wilted and died as it flew along, spreading death by its mere presence. It seemed distracted, for lack of a better word. Its movements stuttered, and the horror swatted at the air as though it were under attack by an invisible foe.

Somnia knew this was it. She had dreamt of this day, but hoped she could prevent it. There was no more hope, no more harmony. It would die today, along with everything else in the universe. Maybe, just maybe, Fae could stop it with Excalion. Maybe she wasn’t necessary. Grar and Excalion could be wrong...

They couldn’t outrun it forever. It simply was gaining ground too fast. Somnia knew what had to be done. Steeling her nerves, she halted her running and shouted to her friend. “Teleport back to Swirl and get out of here! We can’t outrun it!”

“What?! No! I won’t leave you!” Fae halted, turning to Somnia with tears in her eyes.

“Other ponies need hope! You need to find a way to stop them!” Somnia stared at her best friend, her eyes growing wetter by the moment. “GO!” Biting her tongue against the fear, she gave her friend one last reassurance as she looked deep into her eyes. “E-Even if the universe revolts against forever...”

“W-We’ll always be together. I-I’m sorry, Som. I-I’ll come back for you!” With the ignition of her horn, the flash of light forced Somnia’s eyes closed, and when she opened them, Fae was gone. Tears fell from Somnia’s face and, with renewed anger, she turned and charged the monster. If this was going to be her last act on Equus, she was going to go out fighting.

I’m sorry, little one, but there is no other choice.

Or she would have if the entire world didn’t change into a darkened forest she didn’t recognize, no shadow monster in sight. The time was much later than when she last checked, with the moon in the sky suggesting it was approaching midnight.

Bewildered at the change of scenery, she yelled out loud in panic. “Fae? Grar? Swirl?! Did one of you teleport me?!”

When no response came, she yelled it a little louder. Still no response. Something felt wrong. The trees had unfamiliar leaves on them, and it wasn’t autumn. Where am I?

Looks like the Crystal Expanse, although it appears to have evolved somewhat since our last visit. Her friend Grar finally answered. Critters skittered around in the trees, eyeing over the young filly in curiosity. Somnia’s heart sank as she realized the truth. She fell onto her haunches in disbelief. No...

When am I?

The filly wandered the forests of this strange location, taking notice of the vague similarities to the Crystal Expanse that Grar pointed out. The trees and bushes had minor differences to when she visited her other aunt. All the critters that roamed the forest were close to what she remembered, with slight differences in their coats or body shape. The leaves were also somewhat different in design. It unsettled her to find herself so far removed from what she was used to. The sound of wind lightly passing overhead provided a calming atmosphere, a serene calmness settling over the forest as night progressed, a stark contrast to what she expected to find waiting for her in the nightmare-made-reality’s aftermath.

Her stomach growled in desire for sustenance. Under normal circumstances, trying to eat wild berries was a bad idea, but she didn’t have the luxury of a home-cooked meal. The most common berries were red, which may have meant something to somepony who knew how to survive in the wilderness. She considered eating the grass, but that was going to be a last resort, if only for her dignity’s sake.

Taking a berry off the bush, she was about to put it into her mouth when Grar called out: Stop. Reveal your hide, crush the berry into it, and wait.

Not daring to second guess Grar, she did as he commanded, pushing aside some of the fur on her foreleg before crushing the berry into the exposed area. Several minutes passed as she held the berry, her stomach growling again at not being satiated by anything more than a chocolate bar.

Grab another. Gently bite into it. Do not swallow, let the juice settle on your tongue. She did what he said without hesitation. A slight tingling sensation ran along her tongue as the juices made contact. This doesn’t taste so bad.

Spit it out. Probably poisonous. Let’s look for a different berry. Grar commanded, much to Somnia’s disappointment, however, she knew better than to question Grar after all these years. Next to Fae, he was her next best friend, having been with her since long before she could talk. In fact, he was the one who taught her to speak, disappointing both her mom and dad when the first words they heard were full sentences asking for food.

Over the next hour, she searched for a sufficient location to sleep, preferably not exposed on all sides by the night air. After some time, she stumbled upon a bush with blue berries which, gratefully, were blueberries, and a small alcove made by tree roots where she could rest undisturbed. Taking a few minutes to gather leaves for a makeshift blanket, she settled in for the night, dreading the dreams that would meet her.

Unbeknownst to her, a single crow watched from the safety of the trees, staring curiously with its one large, unnatural eye.

Sister! You’re back!

Lulu! I have wonderful news! Twilight completed Star Swirl’s spell! Isn’t it wonderful? There’s a fourth alicorn in Equestria!

That’s not important right now!

... It isn’t? But–

The pentus came by to tell us about a development the requires our urgent attention! They have returned!

They? As in them-them?

Yes! After so long, it’s finally happened! We must find them before anypony else finds out!

To think, I was excited about there being a fourth of our kind...

Do I have your permission to mobilize the E.U.P. and Royal Guard for the search effort?

I grant you permission to carry out the search. The Solar Guard is at your command. Find her, at any cost.

Sitting up from the makeshift bed, Somnia stretched out a bit. Sleeping on the ground wasn’t exactly comfortable, especially after being used to cloud beds for her entire life. As she woke herself up, she thought back to one particular dream she had. It seemed recent, and they weren’t speaking any language she understood if it wasn’t for the ability to understand meaning within her dreams from the participants themselves. Four alicorns in... What did they call this land? Equestra? No, Equestria, that was it. Wait... Four alicorns?! Her eyes widened in realization. It can’t be...

Som, I know all of this is a lot to take in right now, but we need to focus on your survival. There will be time to grieve later. For now, let’s look for some more food. You mustn’t let your emotions cloud your priorities.

Grar was right, and she knew it. With a foreleg wiping away the forming tears, Somnia got up and proceeded off into the woods in search of food. She wanted nothing more than to vent her frustration, anger, and sadness against the monster that took away her old life, but it wouldn’t do her any good to sit in her emotions or to go hungry. It didn’t take long to find more blueberries to eat, although they weren’t as ripe as they could have been. It was going to be a tough couple of days getting used to roughing it in the woods. At least it would give her time to come to terms with losing almost everypony and everything she once knew.

I really need to find somepony who can help me... She mused while eating another berry, tasting the sourness of it not being quiet ripe. If everything and everypony she knew were gone, that meant nopony would come looking for her. Except those two alicorns, but should she trust them? Were they even talking about her? Either way, she needs to learn to survive on her own. The reminder from Grar helped a little to keep her mind on track, despite how much she wanted to beat against a tree until she passed out.

Blame me if you wish. It is my fault for you being in this mess. But know I will always look out for you and your well-being, even if you hate me for what I did.

I do blame you, just not enough to hate you.

I know. Shall we try to find somepony to give us an idea of when we are?

Yeah, worth a shot. Somnia replied before grabbing the last few berries from the bush.

Chapter 1: Welcome Home

Any news, captain?

Negative, your highness. There have been no sightings within Equestria of a fifth alicorn that have born any truth.

What about the operatives in Griffonia or south of Equestria?

Negatives on both as well.

Sister, how’s everything going?

Lulu, we have nothing. No sightings other than mistaken identities, no whispers of her, not even a way to track where she reappeared!

Perhaps she isn’t wanting to be found?

She’s a filly. How could she know how to disguise herself in the wilderness for so long?

That isn’t natural. Somnia licked her lips as she gazed on the rows upon rows of apple trees. She moved up to the nearest packed tree and tried bucking it to get an apple to drop.

Her body made a tight turn, followed by the fluid motion of her back-legs to impact the tree, producing a single thud as her hooves made contact, but nothing more. The tree wasn’t some hallucination she was having. It was real. After checking around the tree, she confirmed that not a single apple had dropped.

Is this really your greatest priority? I’m certain the farmer will give you one to eat.

Fine. She huffed, trotting off further into the orchard. Her stomach growled in anticipation, calling out for something a bit more substantive than berries. She spent a good hour walking in metaphorical - and sometimes literal - circles. Some trees in the orchard the farmers had organized, while others were more random, and going in a straight line only got her cornered against a small cliff. She passed the same rock a few times, going so far as the keep twigs leaned against it to mark the iteration. Four twigs later, she got out of that section of the orchard.

I’m lost. She pouted to herself just before a motion to her left caught her eye. There was... a pony! Finally, somepony to talk to besides a half-dead phantom! Not that I don’t mind talking to you, Grar. She apologized tongue-in-cheek, trotting over to the small yellow and red filly and seeing they were an earthlite. Not much of a surprise given the earthlite genetic talent with farming.

“Hiya!” Somnia called out, startling the filly into dropping the stack of baskets they had balanced on their back. “I’m lost. Can you tell me where to find the town guard?”

The earthlite gave her a confused look at first, saying something Somnia didn’t recognize. This doesn’t bode well.

Somnia tried making motions with her hooves in the standardized non-verbal hoof language, requesting directions toward a market. Some ponies were taught it in parts of the empire, especially when they had to deal with non-pony creatures unable to speak the Equinish script, but it was a long shot this pony would know it.

Not getting any response she understood, Somnia pointed in the direction the filly had come from, raising a brow, hoping they would at least understand that she was getting at. After getting no coherent answers or motions from the filly besides a scratch on the back of the head, Somnia gave up and trotted in the direction the farmer had come from.

After reaching a fence, she turned to follow it along as far as she could. She would reach the front gate eventually, even if it wasn’t the optimal solution to her predicament. Luckily, a path came into view on the other side of the fence. Somnia climbed over the wooden post barrier and followed the path, her course leading her to what appeared to be the edge of a town. She trotted into the streets with a greater skip in her step, her eyes scanning around for any indications of key structures.

The town hall would hopefully have somepony who speaks her language.

“Thanks again for the extra quills!”

“You’re welcome, princess! Come back anytime!” Davenport waved Twilight goodbye as she left Quills and Sofas. Once clear of the shop, Twilight gave a deep sigh. The most recent round of papers from Princess Celestia had resulted in all her quills breaking and a few instances of spilled ink. She considered having a sturdier quill custom-made, but given her limited budget prior to becoming a princess, she never had the bits to afford a craftspony to make it.

It was still relatively early in the day, only a few hours away from her lunchtime picnic with the girls before leaving for Canterlot. The grass was still a little wet from the rain the previous day, small droplets dotting the blades, shimmering in the morning sun. A few birds flew in the sky or perched atop the roofs of buildings and a weirdly familiar crow stared at her from a clothesline. A few ponies smiled widely and waved to her, trying to get her attention. She still wasn’t used to being a Princess of Equestria, even if it wasn’t official until the coronation tomorrow.

She gave a smile and small wave to the ponies as she passed, hastening her pace back to the library. Gratefully, a familiar face turned to see her, waving her over to talk.

“Good morning, Twilight! My, isn’t it a little early to be shopping?” Rarity smiled, tilting her head to see the saddlebags with quill feathers poking out.

“I could say the same for you. What brings you into town?” Twilight tucked the flap on her saddlebag down to cover the feathers. “Getting more supplies for dressmaking?”

“I ran out of aquamarine thread. I can’t have a mismatched thread on a customer’s dress, now can I?”

“Guess not.” Twilight looked around the market. There were a few ponies up-and-about shopping, a few she even remembered the names of. The local guard, Idle Patrol, certainly seemed to be in a hurry, and Lyra was shopping for groceries. After lunch was when most of the traffic would come by the market, meaning she had time to chat without receiving unwanted attention. “How’s my coronation dress coming along?” She turned back to Rarity, who had finished paying for the thread, or threads rather.

“It’s looking lovely! Regal, yet still all you. That’s all I’m going to tell you until I show you tomorrow. I don’t want to spoil anything!”

“I can’t wait to see it! I know how hard you’ve been working on it.”

“All I’m hoping is that you love it as much as I loved--“

“MAORDA!” A loud shout came from across the market, turning several heads to the pony who had yelled it. Twilight turned to see a filly with an atrocious mane galloping towards her, tears running down her face. Twilight barely had time to even register she was galloping at her before she was tackled onto her haunches as the filly made impact to bring her into a tight hug. Besides the surprise, within Twilight’s chest, she felt an odd sensation of relief. Her own eyes started tearing up by looking at the foal. None of it made sense to her, but right now she might as well figure out why she was being hugged and by whom.

She sobbed into Twilight’s fur, speaking some language she didn’t quite understand. “Hisa jirt hims!” She cried out, hugging as tightly as she could. The feeling in Twilight’s chest sank, although she didn’t know why she was getting choked up seeing the filly cry. Do I know her? A confused Twilight turned over to an amused Rarity holding back a laugh.

“A little help?” Twilight asked her friend.

“You two look adorable. She even has a highlight in her mane like you do. Must be a huge fan.” Rarity walked over to the assaulter, brushing the foal’s messy mane with her hoof. “She certainly looks like she’s come a long way to see you.” The unicorn picked a twig from the mane.

“Most fans don’t run up to their idols to give them hugs randomly.” Twilight muttered, turning to the filly: “Do you speak Ponish?”

She looked at her teary-eyed, a little confused at what Twilight had asked. “Hisi firsint umiska jisut scitus mital? Dens Excalia scitus?”

Twilight looked back to Rarity. “We should get her to city hall. I don’t recognize the language and I don’t recognize her from around here. We’ll need to reach out to the University of Canterlot for a translator.”

“Wonderful idea.” Rarity responded. Once she got back onto her hooves, Twilight inspected the filly. The dark purple messy mane and tail had a light blue and pink highlight ran through it, similar to her own, except the mane was too much of a disaster to create a straight line. A massive clump of mane got tangled right above her forehead, making it impossible to tell if she was a unicorn if Twilight didn’t already notice the wings, and her light blue eyes matched the strip through her mane.

The cutie mark was something else, though. A darkened sphere overlaid by a closed eye, with six differently colored stars surrounding it. It was more detailed than most other cutie marks she had seen, comparable to Cadance’s cutie mark in some ways.

The coat wasn’t anything vibrant, being a light bluish-gray. Faint darkened stripes wrapped around her legs, stopping once they reached her body. Her wings were very smooth, and larger than they should have been for her approximate age. As for the rest of her body, there were minor cuts that were healing, but a few that were fresh. Wherever the filly had come from must have been muddy, as brown muck trailed from her hooves up to the rest of her body. She really needs a bath.

As they walked along towards town hall, the filly kept right against Twilight, smiling to her without a care in the world. Neither adult pony spoke while they walked, listening to the remarks of the foal in her own language, but since they didn’t even understand each other, conversation was rather one-sided.

Rarity pulled out a comb from somewhere, attempting to disentangle the mess of a tail. As she finished the tail, Rarity focused her attention on the filly’s wings, humming to herself.

“Twilight, her wings need preening as well. If we can’t get her back to her parents soon, do you know of somepony that could help with that?” Rarity asked, pulling another leaf from the tail.

“Cheerilee can help. She knows how to preen foals better than I do.” Twilight hoped that it wouldn’t come down to that, given the sensitivity related to preening a foal. The white unicorn moved the comb to the ball of tangled hair in the filly’s mane, first separating the loose strands. The filly wincing a bit as the comb worked through the tangles. Bit-by-bit, it was coming apart.

They all heard several clicks as Rarity ran the comb through deeper. Both Rarity and the filly stopped dead in their tracks, much to Twilight’s confusion. “Why did you stop? Town hall’s right there.” She pointed to the building that loomed across the square they reached.

“One second.” Rarity approached the filly, using her hooves and magic to poke into the messy mane. The filly giggled a bit at the act, saying something to the two mares. After a few seconds, Rarity stopped what she was doing, turning to Twilight in shock.

“What? What is it?” Twilight asked, worried it was a wound, or dead animal. It wouldn’t surprise her, given the condition of the foal. She moved next to Rarity, looking into where Rarity had made a hole in the mane. Her heart pounded loud enough to hear in her ears. She did one last look at the filly’s wings before lowering her voice: “Let’s get her into town hall. Princess Celestia needs to know about this before anypony else.”

With a simple nod from Rarity, the three continued to trot into the town hall. Rarity took the filly back to the washroom to clean her up a bit more while Twilight rushed back out towards the library. Her mind raced about the discovery, and she was there to make it.

There was a fifth alicorn in Equestria.

Nervously pacing back and forth, Twilight thought about everything that was going on. The mayor let Twilight and Rarity use her office to keep the alicorn filly in until Princess Celestia arrived, Rarity staying with the foal so that she wouldn’t be alone. It wasn’t half-an-hour later when the first chariot came into view. Then another immediately following afterwards.

The first chariot touched down to the side of city hall, six guards departing with luggage and taking it to the nearby house that served as the ‘town garrison’. It didn’t calm Twilight’s nervousness to see guards arriving. Is this mere coincidence related to her own impending princesshood, or are they reinforcing the garrison in relation to the filly? The second chariot landed in front of her, containing both regal sisters along with a large crate, yet another bad sign.

Celestia stepped down from the chariot, donning her typical motherly grin. “Princess Twilight, my faithful student! It is good to see you again!” She gave a slight bow to Twilight, who gave her a full bow. Stepping down from the chariot with the crate in her magical grasp, Luna stared at the town hall doors.

“Is she inside?”

Twilight nodded, leading them in and toward the back offices. Before they got to the door, Celestia took a deep breath and turned to Twilight. “Please let us handle this privately, if you wouldn’t mind. I’m afraid the situation is extremely sensitive and we all must handle this with the utmost care.”

“Sensitive? How so? Do you know her?” Twilight asked in curiosity.

“There are things you do not understand, Twilight Sparkle. Old, uncomfortable, and far-off things. It is for the best that Celestia and I speak with her alone before anypony else.” Luna stated, focused on walking ahead.

“Oh...” Twilight turned to Celestia in disappointment. The eldest princess winced, slapping her sister on the back of the head with her wing, receiving an annoyed glare in response.

“I wouldn’t have put it so bluntly.” She said to her sister with annoyance. The trio came to the door, Twilight opening it for them to enter. The filly was kicking her hind-legs back and forth on one of the office chairs, smiling up to Twilight as the door opened.

“Rarity? If you wouldn’t mind waiting outside for a few minutes, we need to address with the little one’s language issue.” Celestia ordered with her usual gentle grace, although Rarity made no fuss as she trotted from the room. Once outside, Luna’s magic slammed the door shut and locked it, leaving the two mares to only guess what they were about to do.

“Did she say anything? Does she know who she is?” Rarity pressured a conflicted Twilight with a giddy grin on her face.

“I-I... don’t know.”

“Apple Bloom said she saw a filly wanderin’ the farm earlier. Didn’t speak a lick of Ponish, but they sound like the one ya found.” Applejack added to the group’s understanding of what this was all about, taking a bite of her cucumber sandwich. It had been several hours since the princesses had entered, long enough for lunchtime to come about. Rather than having a picnic out in the fields, they setup in town hall. Four guards had positioned themselves around the main chamber, all of which being from the first chariot Twilight had seen.

Thanking the guard she was talking to, Rarity trotted back over to the group. “He knew nothing either, only that he is being permanently reassigned to the Ponyville garrison on the princess’ orders.”

“Maybe I could try talking to her?” Fluttershy suggested.

Twilight shook her head. “The princesses locked the door and put up a soundproof barrier. There’s no way we can ask them until they come out.”

“Two alicorns in a week! That deserves a party of some sort. Maybe we can have a super-duper big double-coronation party!” The party pony gasped. “I know! We’ll make today a holiday! That way we celebrate when two alicorns appeared in Ponyville every year!” Pinkie exclaimed with a squee.

“Hey, aren’t all alicorns royalty? Does this mean we will need a second coronation dress?” Rainbow Dash asked, dreading the answer that Rarity would give.

“In a few years when she’s older, probably.” The white unicorn answered, secretly relishing the idea of designing yet another coronation dress. “Assuming the princesses abide by that archaic law, of course.”

“Aren’t we gettin’ a little ahead of ourselves?” Applejack asked. “How do we know she’s actually an alicorn? Apple Bloom said she didn’t have a horn when she saw ‘er.”

“That’s because it was under her mane.” Twilight countered. “Rarity had to go digging to find it.”

“Hmmm... you don’t look like you’ve been digging.” Pinkie knelt down to stare at Rarity’s hooves. “Looks like they got polished and scrubbed to perfection!”

The group heard a door open from down the hall, all standing just in case it was the princesses. Turning the corner were the two regal sisters, the crate still in Luna’s grasp, and the little filly with a deep frown on her face. Her mood picked up a bit when she saw Twilight though, biting her lip and wagging her tail a little.

“I see you brought the other elements.” Celestia's voice carried a slight edge of approval.

“Hehe, we kinda had plans to go on a picnic.” Twilight responded, rubbing a hoof on her other foreleg. “How did it go in there? You were gone quite a long time.”

“There was much that needed to be discussed.” Luna said, cracking a smile. “But we are done. Oh, by the way, the papers within are for you. The box is for Somnia.” She dropped the crate in front of Twilight.

“Huh?” Twilight looked at the still sealed crate curiously before turning back to the princesses. “So her name’s Somnia?”

“Yup!” The filly replied. “I slept a lot as a foal, so y- my parents named me Somnia!”

“Indeed.” Celestia added with a chuckle, bringing her head close to Somnia’s ear to whisper: “Are you sure you are alright?”

Somnia nodded back to Celestia. “Grar or mom can help me if I have problems.”

“Very well.” Celestia stood up tall. “Princess Twilight Sparkle and the Element Bearers of Harmony.” She began, sending a nervous shiver down Twilight’s spine. This was her royal decree voice, something Twilight had the misfortune of experiencing whenever she got into trouble.

“I, Princess Celestia of Equestria,” “And I, Princess Luna of Equestria.” Luna included, taking a regal stance and attitude similar to her older sister with wings extended, “do hereby decree that the subjects of our decree, Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria and the administration of Equestria, recognize her daughter, Princess Somnia Temporus of Equestria and the whole of Equus, as a de jure and de facto dependent and child of Princess Twilight Sparkle, among other declarations.

By our divine will, gifted by Queen Faustinia of Equestria and spoken before five prominent nobles of Equestria, do authorize the full decree in its written form as legal truth and fact. Should there be any dispute, Princess Cadance of the Crystal Empire will be the judge of the validity of the decree according to Equestrian law as set under the Treaty of Unicornia.”

The room stood in stunned silence for a few seconds before Somnia spoke up. “Can I go back to her now?” Receiving a nod from Celestia, they trotted over to Twilight, rubbing into her side. “Do you got any food? I’ve had nothing but blueberries to eat the past couple of days.”

“Uh, we got sandwiches. Want some?” Applejack suggested, leading the filly over to the blanket while the rest processed what happened.

“Huh?” Rainbow vocalized, brain having shut down.

“I’m sorry. Did you say daughter?” Rarity rubbed her ears, making sure she heard correctly.

“I-I, but...” Twilight took a breath to calm herself a bit. “WHAT?!”

“Twilight, we have the utmost confidence in your abilities to take care of Somnia.” Celestia smiled at her former student. “Consider this a test if that makes you feel better, although do not treat it as one. She still needs time to grow before she can handle herself on her own. I trust you will be the best option to raise her in the long term.”

“I’m disputing this! Twilight doesn’t have a daughter!” Rainbow blurted out, raising a hoof.

“And you are free to do so. Remember to contact Princess Cadance. I’m certain it will surprise her to learn she has a niece-in-law.” Luna provided a smirk to the multicolored pegasus. “Not that you would win such a dispute.”

“I don’t know, Rainbow. She does have a similar highlight.” Fluttershy rubbed her foreleg as she herself didn’t want to admit it made sense.

“That means nothing! Plenty of ponies have highlights in their manes!” She countered, not noticing that Pinkie and Rarity had made their way over to the picnic blanket where Applejack and Somnia were chatting.

“Princess Celestia, I mean no disrespect, but have you lost your mind?! I don’t have a daughter!” Twilight snapped back at the regal sisters.

“You do now, as you have had for longer than you can remember.” Celestia said, voice teeming with hidden knowledge, further annoying her student. “We are fixing the legal side of things now that she has returned.”

“Raising a grown foal isn’t so bad.” Luna added while waving a dismissive hoof. “Ask your mother if you need help. I’m sure she has plenty of experience with the two she had to raise.”

“That’s not the point! Why wasn’t I told about this earlier?” Twilight stamped the hard floor beneath her, before taking a moment to calm herself down. “What’s this all about? Who is she? I at least deserve to know that much if I’m going to be raising her.”

Celestia grinned to her sister, who returned the expression. “You should ask her yourself. I’m sure you will find you are more related than you believe.”

“That doesn--“

“I never meant it to. That is for you to discover.” Celestia cut her off, approaching Twilight to whisper so others wouldn’t hear. “If I told you who she is, you wouldn’t believe me. It is a truth you need to find. Talk to her, care for her, make sure she doesn’t get herself killed.” She finished with a serious expression. “I’m entrusting her to you because she trusts you. It is in her interest you are the one that continues to raise her, and it is in the interest of Equestria that somepony trusted raises her. If you want to dispute this, bring it up at the Princess Summit next weekend. But right now, Luna and I must return to Canterlot.” The two regal sisters walked straight past Twilight toward the doors.

“Hey, uh, Twi? You alright?” Rainbow floated down next to her. The princesses both winked at her before leaving the town hall.

“Yeah. Just peachy.” She said through gritted teeth. Turning back towards the picnic blanket, she saw her four other friends having a friendly conversation with the filly. Her head ached from the different thoughts racing, all the conflicting emotions battling each other for dominance. Anger, shock, nervousness, fear, guilt. Wait, guilt?

Guilt for what? Not accepting a filly who would go to live with the princesses in lavish luxury? Why should she feel guilty about that? Who was she to the filly?

Yet the feeling persisted along with others. Why did she feel compelled to smile at the foal’s smile? Why did she want to hug her tighter when she was crying? She’s a foal, yes, but that didn’t explain the emotional investment. Why does seeing her safe and happy make a part of her weep with joy? What’s going on?

She took a breath that turned out more ragged than she intended, Twilight turning to Rainbow Dash. “I don’t know.” She said, unsure of what to make of this. It was too sudden, too much of a shock.

“Uh, why are you crying?” Rainbow landed next to Twilight concerned about her friend’s emotional state.

“What? I’m not–“ She felt her face. Without a doubt, whatever wetness she felt was tears. “I-I don’t know.”

“You wanna go back over?” Rainbow gestured with her head. “Or do you need a few?”

“Just... give me a few minutes. I’ll be right back.” Twilight trotted into the hallways of town hall in search of a washroom. The moment she got inside, she looked at herself in the mirror. Whatever tears she had were slowly drying. She took the towel and wiped her face down before returning to the group, the rest chatting away.

“Ya should teach me some of that language of yours. Apple Bloom won’t know what hit ‘er.” Applejack chuckled with Rainbow Dash.

“It probably sounds like gibberish to somepony who doesn’t know it.” Somnia took another bite of her sandwich. “Probably could get away with saying random things that sound like words.”

“Darling, don’t speak with a full mouth, please.” Rarity chastised.

Somnia swallowed the bite. “Hehe, sorry. I haven’t had something this good in a while.”

“What did ya mean by only havin’ berries?” Applejack asked while Rarity motioned over Twilight. “Sounds like ya were roughin’ it in the wilderness.”

“I was lost in the woods for a few days after returning. It was the only thing that didn’t require effort.” She admitted.

I told you we could have hunted animals. That would have been a better meal.

Shut up, Grar.

“Returning from where?” Fluttershy inquired.

“Dunno. Celestia and Luna thought I might have been trapped in limbo.” She said as though everypony knew, however, only Twilight had a visible reaction that wasn’t confusion.

“You came from limbo?” Somnia nodded to her caretaker. “How long were you in there?”

She thought for a moment. “Celestia and Luna said a few tens of thousands of years. Maybe more than a hundred thousand?”

Twilight’s jaw floored. “W-What? That’s impossible except for a masterful wizard to do! How did you get trapped in limbo?”

“Uh, what’s limbo?” Rainbow asked.

“A place outside of time.” Twilight simplified for her friends. “Star Swirl the Bearded wrote a paper on limbo before his disappearance...” I wonder if that’s where he went? Twilight mused to herself, something to look into later.

Somnia shrugged. “Don’t know. I was being chased by a shadow monster–“

Void entity, remember what I told you.

“Void entity, and then I reappeared in a different forest. I thought Fae, Grar, or my brother had something to do with it, but Grar says he didn’t and Fae wouldn’t have known how.”

Fae also teleported away, so she had no line-of-sight, which would have made casting the spell increasingly difficult. I have my own suspicions, but we’ll look into it another time.

“Who’s Grar and Fae? Are they friends of yours from back then?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yeah, they are some of my closest friends!” Somnia said, puffing up her chest. “Fae was a few days younger than me, and Grar is super old.”

Ow, my pride.

“You really don’t know how you got trapped in limbo?” Twilight asked again, receiving a shake of the head from the filly. “Hmm... What did you and the princesses talk about?”

“They don’t want me to tell you.” She admitted with a half-smile. “Nopony remembers who I am, and it’s better off staying that way for now.”

“And who are you?” Rainbow followed up.

“I’m Somnia!” She scooted over to hug her mother. “And this is my mom!”

“Maybe in name, but aren’t ya gettin’ ahead of yerself?” Applejack raised a questioning brow. “Twi doesn’t have any foals that she’s told us about, an’ it doesn’t seem right to have ya adopted by her right after meetin’ her.”

The other elements agreed while Somnia mulled over her words. “That she knows about.” She countered, grazing her eyes between the gathered ponies, her smile fading. “Nopony who would know me is alive. I’m all alone except for my mom and Grar. She’s the one pony that reminds me of home.”

“Are you alright, darling?” Rarity asked Twilight with concern.

Wiping away the extra tears, she bit her lip and looked into the filly’s eyes. The feelings only got muddied at the hope within those eyes, bouncing between different emotions that all fought for dominance. Why does this filly she never met before today seem so familiar?

“Yeah, she’ll be alright.” Somnia answered for her guardian, giggling along with Fluttershy and Pinkie. “She’s going to need sometime to come to terms with it.”

“I’m gonna need time to come to terms with it.” Applejack muttered to Rainbow while Somnia finished her sandwich.

“Thanks for the food.” Somnia let out a yawn. “I really should get to bed.”

“It’s lunch...?” Fluttershy said, pointing to the clock on the wall.

“L-Let’s finish lunch, then I’ll take you back to the library. We’re heading to Canterlot in a few hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to sleep on the train.” Twilight replied, receiving an affirmative nod from her forced ‘daughter.’

Twilight slammed her head onto the table. If there was ever mind-numbing paperwork, this was it. Nearly all the forms were identical in some manner, with minor changes to the language used and who it was in addressed to. Practically every single mayor, lord, count, or duke in Equestria had a sheet of paper that she needed to sign by hoof or horn. If Princess Celestia didn’t go through the busywork of forming the letters, Twilight was sure she would have just ripped off her wings right then-and-there to return to being a no-name unicorn.

Her hoof sifted past the seeming endless stacks of paper addressed to bureaucrats, finding the papers related to Somnia. A royal decree, birth certificate, a short ‘Guide to Parenting’ written by Celestia, and various scattered documents related to Somnia’s new life. Looking through the royal decree, she read every line twice to make sure she was understanding it correctly. While a decent chunk was legal exemptions related to investigations into why the filly appeared from nowhere, there were sections that peaked Twilight’s interest.

The first was regarding her guardianship. It claimed: ‘All inquires related to the appropriateness or legality of the adoption are to be addressed to Princess Celestia or Princess Luna. Contacting Princess Twilight or anypony other than those listed with such inquires can and will result in a fine not exceeding five-thousand bits and/or incarceration not exceeding four moons.’

The second section of interest was in relation to the media. There apparently was a legal provision that allowed the monarchs of Equestria to suppress information. In this situation, it was the royal decree itself and Somnia’s existence. Nopony could report on these things for as long as the monarchy didn’t provide the information publicly. This isn’t like her. Twilight creased her eyebrows. Princess Celestia lets ponies and businesses operate without restraint as long as it doesn’t harm other ponies. What’s changed? Is Somnia in danger?

The birth certificate confirmed what the decree had said. Twilight wasn’t just Somnia’s guardian, she was Somnia’s actual mother, according to the documentation. The father was recorded as ‘Mystic Nightflight of House Therisin - Current identity unknown’ and Twilight’s was ‘Miracle Spark of House Excalion - Currently known as Twilight Sparkle of House Sparkle’, along with the obligatory ‘Age: Pre-Equestrian, assumed to be around 10 years of biological age at document creation.’

Included underneath Somnia’s documents were sealed folders with each of the element’s names on them. Opening hers, she carefully examined the signed and stamped documents. Apparently, each of her friends were officially being granted noble titles and the minor privileges that came from being greater nobility, most of which were already granted because of their status as Element of Harmony bearers. As she bit her bottom lip, she considered heading out to deliver the documents, ultimately deciding to leave it until after the coronation.

A small wooden box laid at the bottom of the crate, engraved with something written on top. Twilight assumed it was the box Celestia mentioned, although she couldn’t deny her curiosity about what exactly it was. Taking it out, she carefully examined the small box with her magic.

It radiated magical energies from multiple sources. Twilight could make out four unique magic signatures, two of which she identified as the regal sister’s magic. The other two were different, making up the lock for the box, while the sisters’ magic was more of an after-thought to prevent chaotic energies from whisking it away like what Discord did with the Elements of Harmony.

“Is that what she wanted me to see?” A tired Somnia asked from behind Twilight, startling her into dropping the box onto the floor.

“GAH! How’d you get behind me so quietly?!” She asked, getting her heart under control while Somnia picked up the box.

“I got it from my dad.” She smiled, following it with a giggle as a memory came back. “He used to scare you a lot.” She undid the lock, rolling an engraved metal sphere into her hoof. Taking a quick look over it, she shrugged.

“D-Do you know what it is?” Twilight asked in fascination, her eyes unable to be peeled away from it. At the back of her mind, wisps of ideas came and went on their own, further keeping her vision affixed on the single artifact.

“Yup.” was all she said in reply, putting the sphere back inside and heading back to the upper landing where the beds were.

With a shake of her head to clear the unnatural thoughts away, she called back: “That’s it? Just ‘yup’?”

“Yup.” came the muffled response as the filly collapsed back into bed.

Dear Celestia, she’s another Shining Armor. Twilight shook her head and got back to signing the papers. After another hours of signing, she put down her quill and walked to the upper level to rouse Somnia from her sleep.

Cradled in her grasp was the box held tight to her body. Her face was all scrunched up, and a few tears fell from her eyes as she whimpered in her sleep. Nudging her awake, Twilight expected... something, but not what she got.

“Is it time to go?” Somnia opened her eyes, smiling up at her mother.

“Yes...” She wanted to ask about the crying, but they needed to get to the train. “Spike will meet us at the station.”

“Is Spike your coltfriend?” She sat up to stretch while Twilight furrowed her brow.

“Spike’s my assistant.” Twilight's weary voice answered. “He’s a bit young to be my coltfriend, and it wouldn’t feel right since I raised him.”

“So he’s your son?” Somnia perked up. “I have another brother?!”

“No, he’s–“ She sighed. “Nevermind. I have a pair of saddlebags that you can take.”

Twilight and Somnia went back to the main floor where Twilight put the saddlebags on the filly while taking the suitcase herself. They made their way through town, a few ponies giving curious glances their way. The actual walk was uneventful until they got to the station where the other elements were waiting for them with Spike.

“Hey, Twilight!” The baby dragon waved to her, smiling at the accompanying pony. “You’re Somnia, right? Rarity told me you’re going to be staying with us at the library.”

“Yup!” She trotted closer, eyeing him from top to bottom. “I wasn’t expecting you to be a dragon.”

“I’m Spike, I’m Twilight’s number one assistant!” He shook hooves with her proudly.

“Who’s number two?”

“Owlicious. He’s Twi’s pet.”

While the two chatted, Twilight wandered off to talk to her friends. Pinkie was the first to ask: “Why the frown, grumpy?”

“You’ll never believe what I found in that crate.” Twilight sat next to Fluttershy while they waited for the train. “I’m listed as Somnia’s actual mother on the birth certificate!”

“I’m certain the princess had an excellent reason.” Fluttershy tried comforting her confused yet frustrated friend.

“I’m not sure, Flutters.” Rainbow muttered. “This seems too far, if you ask me.”

“Let’s think of this logically, hmm?” Rarity spoke up, all eyes turning to her. “A new alicorn filly shows up after being lost in the woods for a few days. The princesses seem to know her already, and she is supposedly from a very long time ago. Are we certain you aren’t a reincarnation of her mother?”

“Impossible!” Twilight countered. “Star Swirl the Bearded deduced that reincarnation was impossible without using highly advanced forbidden soul magic!”

“That doesn’t exactly refute what Rarity said.” Applejack disagreed, the other elements coming to the same conclusion.

“I would never use magic like that! If I’m anything like I am now, then it would be unthinkable!”

“Are you sure you’d be the same as back in those days?” Rainbow cringed at the thought. “You don’t seem to remember anything about what happened. Have you tried asking Somnia about it?”

“I haven’t had the chance! Between the paperwork Princess Celestia gave me and her napping the entire time, I haven’t...” She stopped herself as she remembered the crying. Did something happen? What about her father? What about her siblings? Wait, no, those are another mess to come to terms with.

“It’s alright, Twilight. I’m sure you’ll make for a great mom. You just need to have faith in yourself.” Fluttershy tried to comfort her again, placing her forehooves atop one of Twilight's.

“I’m sure she will.” Somnia hopped up onto the bench opposite Fluttershy, hugging her mother. “Spike was telling me his life story. Did you really hatch his egg?”

“Somnia, you mentioned you had a brother...” Twilight had a question burning straight through her tongue, but she didn’t want to accept it. “How many siblings did you have?”

“Just my brother and sister. They were a lot older than me, by like, three thousand years.” She tried thinking of the exact age difference. “I don’t know. They never really celebrated their birthdays after the first few hundred years.”

“Celestia and Luna are just over a thousand! How old was I?!” She cringed at the legitimacy of her supposed parenthood, but better to let it slip than to correct it.

“I don’t know. Over ten thousand?” She shrugged. “Never came up in conversation.”

18,217 by the Fall of Excalicorn. Only was married for the last 3,628 years. Grar broadcast for the others to hear, spooking them.

“Who was that?!” Rainbow looked around. “Show yourself!”

“That’s Grar.” Somnia giggled. “He’s my oldest friend, in more way than one.” She winked.

Ugh, that was awful.

Sue me.

“Y-Your friend Grar is still alive? I thought you said everypony who you knew were gone!” Twilight glared at Somnia.

“Well, of course he’s still around! He’s attached to me like glue between pieces of paper.” She hugged herself. “Can’t go anywhere without him.”

Didn’t have much of a choice. Either I stay with her, or I fade into nothingness.

“Grar is a weird name. Are you from some super far away land?” Pinkie asked, moving her face close to Somnia’s.

It’s just Somnia’s nickname for me. You can call me Archmage Grogar the Brilliant of the Harmonic Empire, if you wish.

“You’re Grogar?!” Twilight shirked away from the filly. “B-But–“

Did something happen? You’ll have to fill me in on what my lesser half got up to.

“Well, Og kinda killed everypony in Excalicorn...” Somnia added.

We know that, but they wouldn’t.

“I swear, if you are anything like your ‘other half’, I’ll...” Twilight couldn’t actually think of what she could do. “Do something!”

“Good luck with that. I’m keeping him.” Somnia giggled, snuggling into her mother’s side. “He’s my friend. Yeah, he’s made mistakes, and his other half killed a lot of ponies, but he’s not like that anymore. He’s kind and very helpful. I didn’t know how old you were back then, but he did. Probably knows a lot of other interesting stuff!”

I’ve had millennia to study things and memorize. I lived a very boring life since the early days of Excalicorn.

“What about the time you shot dad with molten metal?”

“Say what now?” Rainbow landed to listen just as the train started slowing down into the station.

“I’ll tell you all about it on our way to Canterlot...” She grinned around to the others. “It’s a blast!”

Author's Note

Normally I would use Pony Town to design any OC, however they don't have filly-sized models. I tried the 3d Pony Creator by PonyLumen, but it wasn't terribly helpful for the color scheme due to shininess on the model. Use the descriptions provided for a complete appearance, this is just for the color scheme:

IMAGE REMOVED PENDING REPLACEMENT

Yes, I realize she looks like a complete meme about bad OCs. I tried my best to prevent a bad color scheme for her in spite of the detail gore. Also updated on 23/04/25, removed the image. Again, use the details in the story. I haven't updated the imagery yet for the characters in the story, so if I do, it will be here.

Chapter 2: Skin-Deep

Somnia stared out the window the train car as they went up the mountain towards Canterlot, her mind drifting back home. The sounds of the city at play, the ponies living their lives without a care in the world, the leaves rustling from the trees behind her.

"Feeling down again, Som?" Her mother walked up beside her, laying a comforting wing across her back.

"I'm just thinking." Somnia answered, eyes focused down on the city below.

"What about this time?" She picked up Somnia onto her back, extending her wings and flying into the air.

"What things will be like when you're gone. When everypony I know is gone..." She snuggled into her mother's back, getting comfortable against it as her mother raised even higher into the air.

"It will be a long time before that happens. The best you can do is appreciate the time you do have with us." She landed on a higher balcony they often went to, an addition to the Excalion's Tower near to the breathing limit. Somnia hopped down and gazed to the horizon. The sun was on its course for sunset, slowly burning out with each passing second. "You will see our star, our very world, crumble to nothingness. I couldn't possibly understand what that will feel like, to know that everything you remember is gone in all but memory."

A blessing, and a curse.

"A gift without comparison. I don't envy you, Som. I just wish I could have spent more time with you."

"What was the moon like?" The filly asked, hoping to switch topics.

"It was beautiful. I saw our world as only a few others have." She leaned against the railing next to her daughter. "If only I would live to see it transformed into a paradise."

"There's still time. You'll live long enough to see it." Somnia leaned on her mother.

"I'm afraid I won't." She hugged her daughter close, letting a few tears drop onto her messy mane. "I don't expect you to understand, not yet, but there are certain things that are inevitable in life. No matter how much I try to outrun fate, it will reach me one way or another. It is my purpose, just as yours is to preserve the beauty of reality for an untold number of others like me."

"But I'm just like you. I'm a pony like you!" She pushed back, eyes tearing up. "I-I don't want to live forever if I'm going to lose everypony!"

She rubbed her daughter's cheek. "You aren't like me. You aren't like anything I can even begin to understand. You are simply you. And I'll always love you, no matter who that is. Even if the universe revolts against forever..."

"Somnia?!" Twilight shook her awake, the sleepy filly opening her eyes to see six concerned ponies and a very confused dragon all staring at her. "Are you okay? What happened?"

"Huh? It was just an old memory." She wiped her face, feeling the wetness. "Sorry if I gave you a bit of a scare."

"Darling, you were shaking and saying something we didn't understand. Are you sure you're alright?" Rarity asked concerned.

"Yeah." She hugged her mother, smiling gently into the familiar fur. "I'm alright now."

"What were you dreaming about? Seemed to be pretty..." Rainbow couldn't quite find the words.

"Sad." Fluttershy filled in.

"I was spending time with my mom." Somnia nuzzled Twilight. "It's the last memory I have of her before..."

"Do you miss her?" Twilight had to ask. She still didn't buy into Celestia's scheme, and maybe Somnia would be willing to open up about her past.

"No, I'm content with spending time with her right now." The filly giggled, getting back in a lighter mood. "How long until we are in Canterlot?"

"Another ten or so minutes." Applejack replied, the rest of the group turning back to their own things. So much for any additional information. Twilight mulled. She is either really buying into Celestia's plan, or she genuinely thinks I'm her mom.

"Would you mind telling me a bit more about the dream?" Twilight said at a low volume to her 'daughter'.

"I was thinking about living forever." Somnia said, her voice solemn, releasing the hug and leaning into Twilight's side. "It's something I've thought about more than once. You came out onto the balcony to fly me up to our talking perch. You were comforting me. Saying that you would always love me, no matter who I am. Do you still believe that?"

"O-Of course." Twilight petted her daughter's mane, getting a few giggles from her. If this was brainwashing, it was extremely well done. And if it was all an act...

"You don't mean that. Not yet, at least." Somnia sat back up, smiling to her mom. "But I'm sure you will come to mean it eventually."

"What makes you think I'm lying?" Twilight playfully narrowed her eyes. "Are you calling your 'mom' a liar?"

"I'm saying you have amnesia." Somnia countered, returning the playful glare. "I'm saying that you meant it a long time ago, and that you will mean it again once you understand the truth."

"And that is?"

"What do you think it is?" The filly turned the question back. "What do you think I'm doing here? Celestia and Luna told me you wouldn't accept the truth unless you found it yourself. If you think I'm lying, then you'll want some form of proof. But no matter what it takes, no matter how much you don't want to believe it: You're my mom, and I love you as much as you loved me." She frowned, looking to Twilight's hooves. "I-I just hope you'll love me again."

There it was again, the guilt. What made her tear up? Emotional manipulation isn't that strong on somepony you only met a day ago. So why did it hurt so much? Why did that simple doubt from the filly hurt like whenever Spike...

Is Somnia telling the truth? Am I really her mother?

At the corner of her blurred vision, Twilight could see her friends watching intensely. All of this was too much. She needed an answer. It couldn't wait, she needs one before the ceremony tomorrow. They both did.

Loudly knocking on the door, Twilight stepped back and waited as the occupants scrambled from whatever couple activity they were engaged in. After getting set up in her room, Twilight and Somnia made there way to this door so that the charade could end. Either way, she realized that her life was about the change. Either her mentor was blatantly manipulating her for some grand plan, or...

"Twily!" Shining opened the door, smiling nervously to her, his eyes falling slightly to the wonder-eyed filly next to her. "Aren't we not supposed to talk until the coronation? And isn't it a bit late?"

"I need to talk to you two." Twilight pushed past him into the room, Cadance hiding under the sheets of her bed. Twilight scrunched up her nose at the smell. "Maybe open the doors to the balcony."

"Smells like sex." Somnia happily trotted past a stunned Shining Armor.

"Who's this?" He asked confused. "Are those wings and horn actually real or--"

"Twilight." Cadance motioned her sister-in-law over, still mostly covered. "It's really not a good time."

"Cadance, we need to talk." Twilight opened the balcony doors to let some fresh air inside. Summoning a spell book in front of her, she quickly skimmed for the relevant section. "I need you to cast this spell on me and Somnia."

"Her name is Somnia?" Shining Armor turned to Twilight. "What's this all about? Who's foal is this?"

"Just do the scan." Twilight dropped the book in front of Cadance and stood still while Somnia did the same. Cadance warily picked it up in her magic which faltered just briefly before correcting.

"This is a lineage spell." She dropped the book, eyes going wide. "A-Are you saying--"

"Please, just get it over with." Twilight whimpered, keeping her eyes shut.

"O-Okay." Cadance quickly read the spell over again before igniting her horn and scanning both of them. Shining Armor went back over to the bed, going to the side Cadance was on to see what was happening. The Princess of Love bit her lip as she finished the spell and began checking the references in the book.

"And?" The impatient filly asked.

Cadance closed the book, taking a deep breath as she laid her back to the headrest. Shining Armor looked between the three. "What's going on?"

"She's Twilight's daughter..." Cadance whispered.

"N-No, that's impossible. I would have known if Twily had a coltfriend or was pregnant!" Shining objected.

Twilight sat down on the opposite side of the bed to cradle her head in her hooves while Somnia hopped up next to her. Rarity was right. She had to be a reincarnation of Somnia's mother, which means that Somnia would recognize her, and actually was raised by her. Celestia's words echoed between the walls of her skull, each pass getting louder and louder.

"So you two are married?" Somnia asked the pink princess still underneath the bed-sheet, receiving a nod. "Thought as much. I guess some things never change." She giggled, getting confused looks from both Shining Armor and Cadance.

"Twily, what's going on?" Shining moved back around to the other side so he could face his crying sister. "How come you never told us you had a daughter?"

"I didn't know." She said, voice weak. "I didn't know..."

"This has to be a mistake." Shining floated the book over to himself and found the appropriate spell.

"I did it right. It's true." Cadance tried getting him to listen but her went ahead and scanned both Somnia and Twilight again.

His determination waned at the examples, eventually causing him to drop the book. "W-When?" Then he got angry. "Who?!"

"A long time ago. Long before Equestria. Long before all of this..." Twilight raggedly sighed. "She's from over a hundred thousand years ago. I'm a reincarnation of her mother." She swallowed, finally starting to come to terms with it.

"As for who, we haven't found my dad yet." Somnia shrugged. "From the looks of it, the entire royal family that died during the Fall of Excalicorn were resurrected."

"What do you mean?" Cadance sat up a little straighter, keeping her lower half strategically covered.

"I mean, you two are around, and mom is around, it seems everypony got resurrected." She hummed while they each processed what she had said. "I wonder if it's a royal family thing, or an alicorn thing."

"Woah, hold on. We're not related." Shining backed up.

Picking up the book in her magic, Twilight returned to the spell and cast it on both Shining Armor and Cadance to their horror. If her understanding of her place in life was falling apart, then the least she could do was make sure there were no loose ends to come back to blind-side her later. With a quick check of the examples, she found a match and put the book down on the nightstand before continuing to brood in her hooves.

"Twilight?" Cadance asked from behind. "Did- Did you find anything?"

"Yeah." She murmured out. "You two need to talk."

"I'm certain they will." Luna said from the balcony as she landed. "Hello, everypony." She stopped at the lingering smell. "I hope I didn't interrupt anything."

"Twily? What do you mean we need to talk?" Shining put a hoof on her shoulder, leaning down so that he could make eye contact with her. She shook her head and got up to leave without another word, Somnia following close behind.

"Tia and I didn't want to tell you, as it was tradition in those days..." Luna began, a little less sure than when she landed. "You must understand, the royal family had certain responsibilities. We needed to--"

Twilight didn't hear the rest as she closed the door behind her and Somnia, moving a bit down the hallway using the wall for support as her mind still grappled with everything. She had been married to potentially a brother of hers, she had three foals with them, one of which is still alive, and her full brother had married their half-sister. It was too much.

Knocking on the next door, she didn't even wait before entering.

"Twilight? Did you- Oh my goodness." Fluttershy quickly flew over. "Are you alright?"

"No..." She sobbed, breaking down completely into Fluttershy's forelegs. "I-I..."

"It's alright. Take your time." The pegasus rubbed Twilight's back as she motioned with her head for Somnia to enter and close the door. "I know this is probably very overwhelming."

Somnia went over and poured a cup of water from the pitcher provided to each room, taking it over to her mother. "Don't want to get a sore throat for tomorrow. It's your big day." She added with regret, feeling bad for ruining what was supposed to be a celebration.

The three simply sat on the carpet for a few minutes while Twilight let out her tears. Eventually, she worked up the will to face Somnia. Her daughter.

"S-Somnia... W-Why didn't you just tell me?"

"I did. But Celestia was right, you wouldn't believe it unless you found out for yourself." She admitted, rubbing one of her forelegs and looking away slightly. "I also didn't want to stress you out too much before your coronation."

"Feeling better?" Fluttershy did one last rub of Twilight's back before releasing her. "I'm sure that the two of you will want to talk about this somewhere more private."

"No." Twilight shook her head. "Fluttershy, can- can you please go get the other elements and Spike? I want to get this out of the way."

Without another word, the pegasus left the two alone, or rather three as Celestia entered in from the balcony. "I see you've found out the truth."

"You were right." Twilight admitted, turning up to her mentor. "I wouldn't have believed it if you had just told me."

"What Luna had said before about old, uncomfortable, far off things," Celestia laid next to Twilight, bringing herself to eye level, "Somnia isn't just your daughter. She's royalty even greater than my sister or I. Her grandmother, your first mother, was queen of a great empire that spanned several continents around Equus. You were disinherited after marrying outside of your assigned partner, but one of your foals was allowed to inherit."

The filly looked up to Celestia, a shimmer in her eyes as the regal sister continued. "There was a plan put in place by the powers that be, a plan that was carried forward by my mother and father. The throne would inherit to a single pony, one who they knew would be able to surpass even the queen's capabilities. That pony is Somnia, the rightful Queen of the Harmonic Empire and Equus. I wanted to hear from her about who she believed was best to finish raising her, and offered my own input. She chose you, despite you not knowing who she was. She trusts you more than anypony else, and if she trusts you, then so do I."

"Like you said in the dream." Somnia hugged her mother. "I'll always love you, like you'll always love me."

Something tingled at the back of Twilight's mind. A phrase, faint but still there. The words were blurred together in a language she didn't understand, but a single feeling radiated from the deep recesses of her mind like sunshine on the first day of spring. She choked up a bit, giving a giggle while hugging her daughter. The feeling behind those words was clearer than anything before, and it told a story she had long forgotten in all but emotion.

The door to the room opened and the elements trotted in as Celestia got up to leave. "I'm sure you'll have plenty to talk about. I hope this gives you some peace of mind going forward about adopting Somnia." She nodded to the elements before taking her leave.

"Ya look like yer feelin' better." Applejack commented as she and the others gathered in a semi-circle in front of Twilight and Somnia.

"I am." Twilight giggled, wiping the tears from her cheeks. "Girls, Spike, I would like to reintroduce you to somepony.

"This is my daughter, my real daughter, Somnia."

Bored. Bored. Bored.

We could try eye-spy again.

You know literally everything! And I don't even know half of the colors you talk about! Somnia huffed as she waited in the entrance hall. Standing at the top of the stairs was Celestia, greeting the attendees as they arrived for the ceremony. Her uncle was supposed to be coming by to pick her up, but so far he hadn't shown himself. She even put up with the ribbons being added to her tail and mane if only because Rarity insisted.

Alright, since you're going to be like that, I'll start. I spy a white and blue stallion.

"Huh? Where?" She perked up, scanning the room.

"Where's what?" A voice came from next to her. She turned her head to see Shining Armor in his formal guard uniform.

"You!" She hopped down and hugged him. "What took you so long?"

"I was getting ready. Let's head in. You'll be sitting with me and my parents." He lead her up towards Celestia.

"It's good to see you feeling better, captain." Celestia did a slight bow which he returned.

"I'm just glad everything worked out, your majesty." He motioned for Somnia to bow, receiving only a look of confusion.

"A queen does not bow to subjects, captain." Celestia winked and the two went on their way towards the auditorium.

Somnia spoke up after they were out of earshot of anypony except the guards. "I still don't understand why you were all spooked about learning you were brother and sister."

"Look, maybe when you're old enough, Twilight will--"

"But incest is common in the royal family!" She exclaimed. Shining Armor quickly covered her mouth and tugged her down one of the nearest hallways out of the path of anypony who may overhear. She grabbed his hoof and took it away from her mouth. "Sure, for other ponies it's bad, but the royal family was specifically bred and engineered to not produce defects! We almost always married within the family, or our support dynasty. Mom and dad were originally intended to marry into that dynasty until they ended up marrying each-other against grandma's orders."

"Who told you that?" He whispered, suspicion in his voice.

"Grar did! He was in charge of organizing the royal family for his project. Everypony in the empire knew the royal family intramarried to keep certain traits that were really random otherwise."

"Try not to mention this to anypony else. Incest is really looked down upon nowadays, and none of us want the royal family to be embroiled in a scandal. This stays between us, alright?" He gave his firmest voice often used new guards.

The filly nervously nodded, at which point he grabbed her hoof and brought her back out into the hallway to proceed to the auditorium. Most of the seats were already filled by the time they arrived, totaling over two hundred ponies all excitedly whispering among themselves. They reached the front isle and he brought her to the right side where she recognized two of the ponies that she managed to spot entering.

"Mom, dad, I would like you to meet Somnia. She's going to be sitting with us for the ceremony." Shining Armor smiled to each of them.

"That's alright, she's welcome to sit with us." Velvet patted next to her, at which the filly gleefully sat down while Shining Armor went to talk with one of the guards on duty. Somnia readjusted her eyes slightly as she quizzically stared at the unicorn guard. Why did he seem... familiar. She wracked her memories for any possible reincarnations, but none came up with his gray and brown color scheme, at least no alicorns did.

"So, Somnia is it?" Velvet broke the filly from her thought. "I didn't know there was a fifth alicorn in Equestria. Did you become one recently?"

"Nope!" She happily stated. "I was born an alicorn."

"Oh?" Velvet glanced to her husband slightly confused. "We didn't know that Princess Celestia was keeping you secret."

"She's not doing a very good job." Somnia giggled.

"What brings you to the ceremony? Did you receive a special invite from the princess?" Night Light asked.

"Kinda. Celestia and mom wanted me to come, so here I am!"

"Hmm... very interesting." Velvet playfully examined the filly. "Are you a local?"

"No. I live with my mom in Ponyville." A thought came to her mind as she said that. They didn't know who she was, evidently. Perhaps taking time to learn about her step-grandparents would be a good idea. "Do you live here?"

"Indeed we do, dearie." Velvet tried patting down the filly's messy hair with no success. "We've both lived in Canterlot for our entire lives. It's a wonderful city, and we couldn't be happier to have raised our foals here."

"Alright you three, it's almost time for the ceremony to start." Shining Armor sat down next to his dad. "I'm sure you'll have plenty of time to get to know each other after the ceremony."

"Are we going to be seeing Equestria's youngest princess that often?" Night Light playfully jabbed Shining Armor in the side.

"Yeah? She's your granddaughter. Probably will see her next time Twilight is in the city for a visit." He flicked his vision between the shocked faces of both his parents. "She didn't tell you, did she?"

"Nope!" Somnia proudly declared while the three older princesses stepped out from the side of the room to position themselves at the front. The crowd quieted down and turned their attention to the stage.

"We are gathered here today in celebration of a momentous occasion..."

Grabbing another drink from the waiter wandering around, Velvet gulped it down in one motion before turning back to the filly sat across from her, her husband not faring much better with the news Shining Armor broke for them. She wouldn't have believed it if he didn't perform a lineage spell right then and there. Her own children were barely related to her or her husband, she was truly foal-less.

Although, it didn't discount those early years and the births. She did raise them, and she was still their mom, if only by parentage.

"I see the captain broke the news for you two." Luna sat down next to Somnia. "I'm sorry you had to find out this way."

"Did- Did you know?" Night Light asked with uncertainty, to which Luna simply nodded.

"My sister knew when she visited you in the hospital after Shining Armor's birth. Don't let this get you down, you still were their parents growing up, and I don't believe this will change how they feel about you."

Somnia got up and trotted off in search of more snacks. Off to the side of the hall, she could see her mom and friends laughing about something. She gave slight smile at the sight, happy to see that she was in a much better mood than last night.

Somnia's sightseeing caused her to bump into another pony, her vision turning up to them and her eyes readjusting again. This time was different. The yellow and green unicorn mare gave her an annoyed look before her vision trailed to the wings and horn, her pupils shifting a bit. At least, Somnia thought that is what she was looking at.

Somnia, take her out into the halls. She's using magic to disguise herself.

"H-Hi?" Somnia mentally cursed herself. "I, um, was wondering if y-you wanted to talk out in the hallway? I-If that's okay..."

"Uh, sure?" She looked around briefly before putting down her half finished drink on the nearest table before leading the filly from the room. The mare led the filly out into the hallway, then around a corner where there was only a single disinterested guard at the other end dozing off. Her hooves grabbed around Somnia, the mare dragging her into a side room before igniting her horn in a sickly green glow attempting to put Somnia to sleep, an attempt which was blocked by Grar's own magic.

Nice try, but that isn't going to work. Grar said to the disguised pony. Drop the act, we know you're a changeling. We want to talk.

"About what?" The mare hissed. "I have nothing to say to you. What's this all about then? Some form of trap? Are you going to try using your 'friendship' magic on me? It's not going to--" Somnia struggled free of the foreleg around her mouth.

"We just want to talk!" She sighed out, catching her breath. "I-Is that so bad?"

"It's never just talking with creatures like you ponies!"

"Wait, what do you mean?" Somnia furrowed her brow. "Changelings are ponies too."

The mare scoffed. "Don't know where you got that ridiculous idea, but I'm not sticking around to find out."

A bit of armor scuffling on the other side of the door froze the mare in place. She swore under her breath and whispered to the filly: "If you so much as make a peep, I'm draining you of every drop of love. Got it?"

Somnia nodded, not actually worried about them doing that. Grar was more than enough to send a signal to everypony in a forty pony-length radius to alert them of her exact position. A light knock on the door was answered only by silence, the pony on the other side shuffling around a bit in their armor.

The door broke open suddenly and the gray unicorn Somnia spotted earlier had their horn glowing at the ready. "Halt! What's going on in here?"

"I wanted to get to know her." Somnia quickly covered. "She seemed interesting."

"Well, you shouldn't go wandering off like that, princess." He cautiously moved forward, eyes squarely focused on the confused and nervous mare behind Somnia. "Especially not with strangers."

"How did you know where I was?" Somnia trotted up to him.

"Life-detection spell." He eyed the mare over. "And I'm tasked with protecting you, so I was keeping my eye on you as you left."

"Huh, makes sense." Somnia turned back to the changeling. "Why are you at the coronation?"

"I ordered tickets for one of the available seats!" The mare defended, adopting a defensive attitude. "Perfectly legitimate!"

"Right." The guard dowsed his horn, turning back to the filly. "We should be heading back to the auditorium. The princesses will likely wonder where you wandered off to."

"Alright." She didn't move a single bit from her spot, much to the confusion of both other ponies.

"I meant right now." He clarified, narrowing his eyes at her.

"Hmm..." She turned back to the mare. "What's life like where you live?"

"What?" She took a step back in confusion. "Why would you want to know that?"

Somnia approached the mare, annoying her guard. Once within hoof reach, she stopped. "I want to know who you are. I haven't seen anypony like you around in Ponyville or Canterlot. Did something happen in the hives?"

"Hives?" The guard reignited their horn and cast the disillusionment spell on the changeling, revealing their true form, surprising Somnia into stepping back a step.

"Y-You're--"

"A changeling." The guard growled, picking them up in his magic and pushing them against the wall. "Thought you could lure a filly away to drain her, did you? You'll have plenty to think about in the dungeons, love-leeching sc--"

"Stop!" Somnia jumped in front of him. "Let them down!"

"I'm not letting a changeling get away after what they pulled at the royal wedding. I'm not going to be made a fool of again!"

"She hasn't done anything wrong!"

"I'm actually a guy." The changeling forced out a nervous chuckle.

"Shut up, vermin!" The guard applied more pressure, pushing aside the filly as he approached to apply the magic suppression ring he drew from under a plate on his armor.

"No!" Somnia jumped back in the way. "Stop hurting him!"

"Princess, you're still young, so you may not understand, but changelings are dangerous. They can't be allowed to go free, and we need to know if they have anymore in the city."

"I wouldn't know." The changeling forced out, his breath slowly draining. "I-I'm a long-term infiltrator!"

"Stop!" Somnia hopped up in an attempt to hit the guard's horn. "Stop it!"

"What the hay are you doing?!" He picked her up in his magic to push her away, giving her the opportunity to lunge her hoof forward to make contact with his horn, breaking his grip on both of them.

The changeling quickly disguised and tried making a run for the door, but the guard socked him in the face with a hoof, sending them to the ground limp.

"There, was that so--"

"What the buck is wrong with you?! They were starving! How can you hurt somepony who deserves love like anypony else?!" The filly positioned herself between the guard and the unconscious changeling.

"What's wrong with me? What's wrong with you?! They are a dangerous predator! You could have been seriously hurt!"

"Sir?" A guard at the door looked in. Upon spotting the changeling, they entered fully. "Is that a changeling?!"

"Throw them in the dungeon." He ordered. "And put a damn magic suppressor on them!"

"Buck you!" Somnia angrily trotted past the two guards, toward... somewhere, she hadn't thought that far ahead.

"And she just stormed off?" Luna raised a brow at the debrief inside her room while removing her regalia. "Did you at least put a guard on her to follow?"

"Negative, your highness. I was busy assisting with taking the changeling to the dungeon after they woke up and struggled." Captain Shattershield answered, standing at attention.

"And nopony has seen her since then?" She sighed, rubbing between her eyes. "Do we even know if she's still in the castle?"

"No guards have reported a filly leaving the castle grounds, by air or ground. She's most likely in one of the hundred-odd empty rooms we have around here."

"Wake up Captain Dawn and get him to find her. He's great at finding foals, unfortunately." She added the last word under her breath before returning to address the captain. "I want her back before Twilight finds out, understood?"

"Of course, your majesty." He did one last bow before making his way down to the barracks on the other side of the castle grounds. Heading straight for his fellow captain's room, he didn't even bother to knock before opening the door. "Get up!"

"What?" The formerly sleeping captain mumbled, turning his head over just to hiss at the light. "Is it my shift already?"

"Princess Luna needs your skills to find somepony on the castle grounds." Shattershield entered fully and picked a uniform from the desk to throw over. "Come on, soldier! You got a job to do!"

He quickly got on the uniform, waking up in the process. "Where was this pony last seen?"

"Western towers."

He put down the last piece of the uniform, Dawn looking at him as if he was an idiot. "Isn't that the visitors quarters? Are they staying at the castle?"

"We've already checked her room and she wasn't there."

"Did you check the other rooms?" He raised a brow as he finished getting on the uniform, following after Shattershield. "Why are you even bothering with this anyway? Shouldn't your guards be looking for a random pony?"

"It's Princess Somnia." Shattershield sighed.

"There's a Princess Somnia?" Dawn questioned as they made their way toward the western towers, passing into the ornate stone halls of the lower castle from the direct barracks entrance.

"Some filly the princesses are fawning over." He shook his head. "She's even worse than Cadance when she moved to Canterlot."

"Sorry, I'm not ancient like you are." Dawn chuckled. "What was this new princess even doing before trotting off?"

"She was talking to a changeling spy..." He slowed his trotting to a halt as he realized. "I think I know where she went."

"Well, that's a relief." Dawn turned back. "I'm going to get another hour or two of sleep, if you don't mind."

Shattershield continued on toward the dungeons. If there was one pony who didn't hear about her, it would be the 'dungeon master', and they may be inclined to let her see the changeling. Yet another thing he needed to speak to Pansy about whenever he had the time.

As he got to the bottom of the stairs, he saw the dungeon master absent from their post. The gate toward the prisoners was open, confirming his suspicions. His hooves took him toward the cell, groaning at the sight. Locked inside the cell was both Princess Somnia and the dungeon master, no changeling in sight.

"I told you not to hurt him." The filly leaned on the bars, a smug grin on her face and bags under her eyes.

Two hours earlier...

Dungeons... Where would they put the dungeons? Tower-based? No, too easy for flyers to stage a breakout. Somnia trotted past the various rooms in the western towers, making sure the guards clearly saw her. She had no doubts they would send somepony to find her and needed to misdirect them. She trotted her way back out of the wing of the castle, making sure nopony saw or heard her as she made her way back down to the lower levels. Gratefully, getting around a castle without being seen was one of her old hobbies.

Along the way, she detoured through two meeting rooms, found the kitchen's other entrance, and even discovered a few locked doors with magical seals on them. After checking nearly forty rooms, she found stairs that took her into the depths. While several doors were to either side, the only light was at the end of the hall, coming from a room with an iron bar door.

She trotted up to the pony sitting at the desk in front of another set of locked iron bars, gently smiling to them. "Hello there. I'm looking to visit somepony."

They kept their eyes on her, scanning her over. "Uh, huh. And you are?"

"I'm Princess Somnia, daughter of Princess Twilight." She declared. The guard raised a skeptical brow and lighting his horn, scanning her over.

"Well, you're not a changeling, and you certainly do have wings and a horn." He shrugged, getting up and unlocking the bars behind him. To one side of the first hallway of cells, Somnia could see a griffon locked in a cell with bandages all over their body, bits of charred feather still poking out. The dungeon keeper led her through another gate before they reached the cell in question.

The cell had only two objects of note, a rickety bed and a basic toilet. The scratching on the walls told a grim tale of previous occupants, and laying on the bed was the changeling staring up at the ceiling, disinterested in the motions outside. "Got a visitor." The dungeon guard banged the bars, moving off to the side to provide the illusion of privacy. The changeling looked up and hissed.

"The buck do you want? Come to gloat?"

"I came to get an answer to my question." Somnia stepped up to the bars. "What's life like back in the hives?"

"Is this the royal guard's method of interrogation? Send some random filly?" He chuckled. "Pretty pathetic, don't you think?"

"If i was here to interrogate you, yeah." She giggled. "But I'm not. I'm here to get to know you."

"And why would you want to do that?" He sat up, suspiciously examining her. "What do you hope to learn about the hives?"

"I want to know why I haven't seen any changelings since returning." She ran her hoof along the bars, revealing a magical barrier between them. "I want to know why you are starved of love."

"Ponies, that's why!" He spat back. "You ponies deny us changelings rightfully deserved love. You see us as parasites and make sure we never have enough love to go to sleep without hunger. We've been forced into our own lands with barely anything to sustain us, and lied to about the benefits of friendship by every worthless pony we come across!" He sneered the one word.

The filly considered it a moment. "Are you hungry for love right now?"

"We're always hungry!" He yelled back. "Haven't you been listening?"

"Guard!" Somnia called back over the dungeon guard. "Let me into the cell."

"Are you sure?" He asked uncertain, casting a glance to the equally confused changeling.

"That's an order." She commanded. After a moment of hesitation, the guard dropped the barrier and unlocked the cell door, locking it behind her as she entered. "Now, leave us alone for a few minutes."

"Your majesty, are you--"

"That's also an order." She turned back sternly, to which the guard bowed before walking a bit down the hallway. Now alone with the changeling, she approached them on their bed.

"What are you doing?" He asked as she reached above his eyes, flinching back slightly as a small pinch shocked his horn. She showed him the magical suppressor, now in her hoof.

"You need love to survive." She said, her voice solemn. "Nopony else is willing to give you love willingly, but I will."

Hesitating, he ignited his horn and opened his mouth, pink and purple wisps flowing from the foal as he drained her of love. Alicorn love was far more potent than anything he had ever consumed before, sending his mind reeling with pleasure. But the most surprising part was that she didn't resist, at least consciously. She really was opening herself up to him. After satisfying his immediate hunger, he stopped, the filly having leaned on the bed for support.

"Better?" She asked with a smile, weaker than before.

"Why?" He asked baffled. "Why would you just let me drain you?"

"Everypony deserves love." She sighed. "And changelings are ponies, just like all others. You're not a bad pony, just one who believes wrong things."

"You know nothing about me other than I'm a changeling." He shot back. "You knew I was a changeling before--"

"And I still didn't like seeing you suffer. I also wanted to learn about why I didn't see any changelings around."

"I told you why. You ponies see us as parasites!"

"A parasite doesn't help the host." She breathed out another sigh, taking a few moments to take deep breathes. "Changelings aren't meant to just take, they are also meant to give love. It's the exchange of love that keeps you from going hungry, it's not the love itself."

"What do you know of changelings?! You admitted to never having even seen us before!"

"Since I returned." She smiled up to him. "Where- When I came from, changelings lived in harmony with other ponies. They weren't parasitic, they were symbiotic. Having a changeling friend was pretty normal for a lot of ponies, since the love they gave was guaranteed to be genuine. They were the closest of friends, confidants and empaths. I may not have ever known any changelings directly except those within the Queen's Guard, but my dad was the kindest soul you would ever have had the pleasure of knowing."

The changeling stayed silent as he took this in. Somnia continued. "He was part changeling. He made sure that everypony made sure they knew they were loved, even if they were complete strangers. I wanted you to know that even though you may have done something bad, there are still ponies that would care if they understood what you have to go through." She gave him a light hug. "That you aren't alone."

He pushed her away and got down from the bed, heading to the bars. "You wanted to know about life was like back in the hives?"

The filly didn't even have to say anything before he continued. "Horrible. Always hungry, always working. The queen doesn't want us wasting time on things like 'friendship'. The only time I get anything substantial is when I'm out on assignment." He turned back to her. "And ponies have been the only ones who have satiated me without resorting to draining every time."

"How long has it been since you last shared love with somepony?" Somnia asked. "How long since you actually gave them genuine affection?"

"I haven't. It's banned in the hive, and doing so while out on assignment is dangerous." He slowly nodded, understanding the problem. "Did we... Did we look like this before?"

The filly shook her head. "You didn't have wings back then, you really didn't really look like bugs at all, and you were far furrier and more colorful. You also had cutie marks."

"How far the mighty have fallen..." He chuckled, shaking his head. "What did we do to deserve this?"

"I don't know, and I don't care." Somnia walked over to him, bringing him in once more for a hug. "I'm not going to let ponies suffer anymore. Changelings included."

He started laughing, hugging her tighter. "You give me love without me even needing to drain you, even after I already forcefully took it. I've been nothing but rude and malicious to you. What's wrong with you, filly?"

"I'm not wrong, modern pony society is." She backed off to look into his bug-like eyes. "And so are the leaders of the hives. My aunts and uncles have been reborn, which probably means that my other uncle is alive. He was Duke of the Changelings back then, and he cared deeply for the struggles of changelings. They were never meant to be isolated from other ponies, even in the hives. If he's back, then there's a good chance you know him."

"Maybe, but there's a lot of 'lings I know." He shook his head.

"I want you to know that I will help the changelings so they don't need to go to bed hungry anymore." She fully released the hug, much to his disappointment. "When I find my uncle, I'm going to talk to him about overthrowing your cruel leaders. I promise."

"I'll believe it when I see it." He lightly smiled back. "But thanks for caring anyway."

Somnia could feel a light wave of love pass over her. It felt nice, much like when her dad would playfully pick at her mane. She couldn't help but smile wider.

"I also have an offer for you, but first we'll need to get you out of here."

With the filly in his magical grasp, Shattershield ordered a few guards as he passed for them to go secure the dungeons and warn those on patrol about a loose changeling. The princesses were going to be furious, and he wanted make sure it wasn't directed at him.

"I don't regret what I did." Somnia smugly smiled to him from where she floated.

"Maybe not yet." He muttered as he turned another corner.

"Do you want to know why?"

"Not really, no."

"Changelings are also ponies. I probably got more information from him than you probably would have gotten by hurting him, just by offering a little kindness."

"Recklessness, more like it." He glared at her. "Do you have any idea how dangerous having a changeling spy running around the castle is?"

"They're leaving Canterlot." She paused a moment. "You won't find them."

"That's even worse! We didn't even get the chance to interrogate them!" He stopped to bring her closer to his face. "What you did was downright treasonous! Letting a prisoner go free without a pardon, conspiracy to assault a royal guard, assisting a fugitive, collaborating with changelings, you would be locked away in the dungeon for years if you weren't Celestia's pet!"

"Just Celestia?" Somnia raised a sly brow. "Not Princess Celestia?"

"You know what I meant, don't try deflecting." He growled back.

"And what exactly has Celestia done to endear such devotion from you?"

"She's served Equestria faithfully ever since her coronation over eleven-hundred years ago, and who I've served for the past nineteen years! Who are you to question my loyalty?"

"You aren't understanding." The filly shook her head. "What has she done for Equestria? Sure, nearly eleven-hundred years is a lot of time, but from the looks of it, things haven't exactly been stable. My mom told me about what's been happening recently. The return of Nightmare Moon, Discord, the Invasion of Canterlot, King Sombra. It doesn't sound like Princess Celestia has really done anything to help stop them. Threats I would guess that are a part of a reoccurring trend in those eleven-hundred years.

What confidence does that inspire in you? That your leader is unable to stop events from spiraling out of the control and is forced to divulge responsibility for stopping them onto others more competent than her, benefiting from their solution? And what of Princess Luna? Has she actually done anything since returning? What about Nightmare Moon? Are they actually defeated, or merely suppressed? Equestria is surrounded by enemies, both within and without. The princess which you have served loyally doesn't have it under control."

"And you think you can do better? You're a filly for Celestia's sake!"

"You mention her name as if she's a religious icon. You revere her like she can do no wrong." Somnia narrowed her eyes. "She has lived for longer than anypony else, and she has made sure that her power is absolute. No need to prove herself worthy of the position when ponies believe she is some divine being with a natural right to rule. Then she separates herself from responsibility with an aristocratic caste to take the fall for any mistakes she makes.

I also may only be a filly, but I've learned a lot from attending the Excalicorn Council with my mom and dad. My grandma may have been a tyrant, but she ensured our society was at peace and free from even worse tyranny. Are Celestia or Luna any different? Religious icons praised by ponies for actions they never did? Ruling through aristocrats with no responsibility to care about the ponies 'beneath' them? Think, captain! What will they do when a truly fearsome threat appears? How far would they be willing to go in order to preserve their power?"

"They're the best we have, and I don't want to hear another word from you about them or I'll bring you back to the dungeon and they can deal with you themselves!" He started marching again with determination.

"They aren't the best you have." Somnia continued. "I am. I was due to become Queen of the Harmonic Empire after my grandma. The former Queen of Equestria, Faustinia, she was my fillyhood friend, and even she realized what I would do later in life. I'm not like Celestia or Luna, I don't need to make the illusion of strength. I actually will possess the strength to deal with these threats before they are a problem. I don't need to secure control over the ponies of Equestria, because they pose no threat to me by default. Do you want to know where Scutellum, that changeling, is going? Ponyville. They are going to Ponyville because I asked them to. They didn't need to. They chose to go. I didn't need to threaten them, or give them false hope. I didn't need to torture them, trick them, or do anything to coerce them to abandon the hives.

I simply told them the truth, I gave them a greater purpose, what I am giving you now. Equestria can be much better off without the aristocrats and religious iconography." Shattershield stopped, the door back to Luna's room was just down the hallway. "Do you really think the royal guard is suited for the task of defending the princesses when they can't even stay awake while on duty? I've seen enough of the guards around here to know they aren't alert, that they aren't ready for real intruders. You said it yourself: You don't want a repeat of the wedding. Have the guards gotten that much better since then? Would they be able to prevent a repeat of the wedding? Would you trust them with your life?"

She finished, taking a deep breath. The entire plan was coming into place, despite her own confusion as to how it came about.

You did well, Grand Councilor.

Why did I do that? Why did I say all of that? She was genuinely confused, but didn't let it show for the captain which continued to stare down the hallway in thought. It wasn't the first time she had done something like this. Technically, it wasn't even the first time since returning from limbo. The wolf in the forest which she managed to solidly buck in the snout, her mother's doubts, the 'grandparent' situation, Scutellum, and now this. Plans and schemes, big and small.

"Then what would you do?" He asked suspicious, his voice a bit lower than before.

"I'll make you an offer, just as I made Scutellum." She smiled gently to him. "I need loyal guards devoted to my cause. I need somepony to convince Celestia let them form, and I want that pony to be you. You're captain of something already, this would be like a side-promotion to a post with fewer incompetent colleagues."

Her grin turned up a bit. "I remember dreaming about your meeting after assaulting those griffon mercenaries while trying to find me. You didn't like how the other captain charged them down and used fire magic against them, but there was nothing you could do about it. They served Celestia, and only Celestia. How many creatures suffered because of your 'comrades'? I saw the bandaged griffon in the dungeons, I know that at least one guard had suffered burns as well. I saw your anger as clearly as the others did. I saw the doubt. This wasn't the first time either, as you said, and I quote: 'I've had it up to my mane with you Stampede! You are following my orders, not Celestia's, and I strictly said no use of fire magic! You could have caused a forest fire like what happened in Marinalco! We were ordered to bring her to Celestia unharmed, not charred!'" She mimicked his voice.

"You couldn't possibly have known that." His gaze was getting less and less certain with every sentence she uttered, the walls of resistance eroding before Somnia's eyes.

"I dream of the past, present, and future. Every night, I see the worst things imaginable done on fellow ponies, and sometimes it ends up being quite benign. That dream I had the day before finding my mom. Nothing stays a secret from me for long, captain. So this is what I offer you: Help me reform the Queen's Guard, become sworn only to my will, with no more conflicting orders or insufferable companions, and break the cycle."

He set her onto the ground, still staring off distantly to the two Lunar Guards standing in front of Luna's door, one of which was picking at their teeth. "Go back to your room. I'll tell her you were just in the gardens. I'll make up an excuse as to how the changeling got free."

Somnia hugged him, whispering: "Thanks." before trotting off in the direction of her room. She opened the door slowly, and saw it was darkened. Her mom and Spike shouldn't be back until a bit later, meaning it gave her some time to think on her own. She plopped down on the bed and began to undo the various ribbons in her mane and tail.

Any ideas of why you want a Queen's Guard?

Not really... But I think you do know why.

You would be right, but you must discover the reason on your own. Even without understanding, you are still as brilliant as the Prophet. Don't underestimate yourself, Som. You are destined for greatness.

Didn't you say I will make my own destiny? She coyly smiled as she undid another ribbon from her tail.

Greatness is inevitable, just as much as pain. One day, when we find Excalion, we should tell you more about the other Grand Councilors. It would be beneficial to learn from their mistakes.

One day, Grar. Somnia leaned back in bed, not bothering with the remaining ribbons. One day...

Completely exhausted, Twilight opened the door to her room slowly. Celestia had mentioned Somnia had wandered off to explore the gardens around the castle while she celebrated, and that she likely would be back in the room.

Spike walked past her and went straight for his bed, not bothering to even take off his wrinkled suit before collapsing onto it. Twilight made her way over to the bathroom to get off the dress, noting the filly having cuddled up to one of the pillows on the princess-size bed.

As she checked herself out in the mirror, Twilight spotted a crow behind her hovering within the shower area. But when she turned, the crow was gone.

Her mind and heart raced as she turned back to the mirror, crow no longer in sight. She knew that crow all too well. Nearly everywhere she went, she would spot it. Ever since she was a little filly. Shining Armor and her parents did remark on it sometimes hanging out nearby, but dismissed it as merely having a favorite spot. Celestia said it was just a bird and that there were plenty of crows around, but Twilight didn't think so. It was unique. And seemed to follow her no matter where she went.

She closed her eyes and a memory came back of her playing in the gardens with Shining Armor. They had just finished playing around with water balloons and he went off to make some more. That's when the crow landed in front of her, it's single large eye still haunting her to this day. It reached out and rubbed her cheek, as if it knew Twilight.

As if it knew her... She opened her eyes and spotted it, not in the showers behind her, but in front of her, perched atop the water tap.

"Who are you?" She asked uncertain, and a blink later, it was gone. Did this crow have anything to do with Somnia's past? But why would it follow her for her entire life? Was it even real? Was she hallucinating it these years?

Shaking her head, she finished taking off the dress and makeup before returning to bed. She snuggled into her daughter, the whimpers from the filly getting less frequent as she unconsciously returned the snuggle.

Outside the window, the crow hovered in place to watch them drift to sleep. It would have adopted a smile if the form allowed it.

Goodnight, Little Miracle.

Author's Note

Cat's Cradle, M-Rated. Would recommend. Ultimately I liked the idea of Shining Armor and Cadance secretly being siblings, I'll expand upon it a bit more later on so it doesn't seem like a random fetish addition (Yes, it's relevant in the story).

I did reconsider the plot point, but in the end decided to go with the original. Maybe I will expand upon the other idea in a short one-off.

Chapter 3: Give and Take

That could have gone better.

I told you she can't be trusted on her own, but nooo, you had to think she was better off acting independently.

Would you put aside your personal ambitions for once? She IS better off without us looking over her at all times. Her spirit can't be contained, and if you try, you will only make her grow to resent us and what we stand for. Would you rather deal with her while on our side? Or against us?

I hope you're right, otherwise we will have doomed Equestria to a bloody future.

Somnia looked out to the forests that passed by, her thoughts having drifted to somewhere else. Her mind kept going back to the talks with Scutellum and Shattershield. There was still much she was grasping to understand, but Grar assured her it would become more clear as she grew. Bits and pieces of her gave conflicting ideas, plans that connected and diverged, yet all outside her full understanding as to what or why these thoughts occurred. Why did she demand the formation of a 'Queen's Guard'? Does she actually need it? Why did it feel right in the moment?

Grar hadn't been very helpful. 'You need to learn for yourself', his not-so-subtle way of saying 'You're on your own, I'm tapping out'. She considered everything he told her about the 'Grand Council' over the years, how they behaved with reckless abandon in their pursuits due to their invincibility, consumed with the curse of forever. How the 'War of the Fallen' could have been avoided if only they learned from their mistakes. If they hadn't isolated themselves from pain.

Will I fall to the same thing? Am I doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past like all others?

That is for you and you alone to decide.

"Why the scowl?" Her mother's voice interrupted her thoughts. Smiling to her, Somnia gave the answer she always did for Fae.

"Just thinking. A lot has happened the past couple of days, it's good to finally have time to relax."

"I'll say. A freaky cutie mark swap, two alicorns, and a coronation. A bit much if you ask me." Rainbow stretched out next to Rarity. "It'll be good for things to get back to normal."

"Well, mostly normal." Applejack gave a smile to Somnia. "You should talk to Apple Bloom when we get back. I'm sure she'll be glad to have a new friendly face around."

"Oh, I never even thought of that!" Rarity chimed in. "Twilight, darling, you and Somnia must come to the next sisterly camping trip! It will be such a good opportunity to hang out some more."

"But we aren't--" Twilight tried rebutting.

"Don't matter." Applejack interrupted. "Neither are Rainbow an' Scootaloo. It'll be a good chance to hang out, an' the girls can get to know each other better."

"Assuming they get along." Rainbow added. "Who knows? Maybe Somnia's a changeling in disguise looking for a quick love snack..." She playfully eyed the filly.

"That's ridiculous!" Twilight rolled her eyes, landing them right on Somnia who stuck her forked tongue out at her. "GAH! Since when did your tongue look like that?!"

"Since I was born." She dismissed, turning to the other three. "So that's two out of three. Who's your sister, Rarity?"

"I'm sure she will introduce herself soon enough." The white unicorn peeked out the window to see the station coming into view. The train came to a gradual halt at the station with a cloud of steam covering the platform. The three older sisters departed first to take the brunt of the assault, the rest following behind with Twilight and her two dependents last.

"I've got to tell you what we did! It's the awesomest thing we've ever done!" The orange pegasus filly, who Somnia assumed was Scootaloo, excitedly rushed up to her 'adoptive sister'.

"Scoots and Sweetie were paintin' on them canvasses we got near the western orchard while I was posin' for them." Apple Bloom struck a pose, her sister glanced to Rarity and they both giggled at the display.

"Then a timber wolf jumped from the bushes!" Sweetie exclaimed, receiving immediate looks of concern from the adults present. "And we ran as fast as we could back to the treehouse!"

"We hid in there for it to go away, but it kept scratchin' at the door an' window. We made a plan in case it got in!"

"Apple Bloom went next to the door while I stacked a bunch of boxes on the other side to stand on and Sweetie hid behind the podium while we laid in ambush." Scootaloo excitedly fluttered her wings.

"That's when it opened the door. Just like a pony!" Apple Bloom shouted out.

"It creeped into the clubhouse, sniffing the air or something, and when it turned its head, Apple Bloom bucked it as hard as she could while I jumped onto its back!"

"Apple Bloom! What in tarn--"

"There's more!" Sweetie continued. "I made ghost noises while they fought it, hoping to scare it off".

"Then it ran out the clubhouse, me riding it all the way across the orchard until I fell off!" Scootaloo fluttered in the air briefly as she finished the story. "Pretty awesome, right?"

The sisters were appalled, looking between themselves. Rarity was first to respond: "Sweetie Belle! You could have been killed! What were you thinking?!"

"Ah agree. Apple Bloom, that was darn reckless of ya! Don't ever fight a timber wolf, especially not without knowin' how!"

"Yeah, that was pretty awesome." Rainbow reluctantly agreed with Scootaloo, receiving critical glares from her other two friends. "But the others are right, you could have gotten seriously hurt, or worse."

"But we won! And we can handle ourselves, which gave us an idea." The crusaders gathered together.

"CUTIE MARK CRUSADER EVERFREE TAMERS!" They hoof bumped in the air between them.

"Oh no you don't." Rarity tugged Sweetie Belle along, hovering her luggage behind her. "You're staying in Ponyville until further notice."

"Aww, but Rarity..." Sweetie whined as she was dragged away.

"Same with you, Apple Bloom. I'mma have to find where that timber wolf got onto the farm from, they don't usually cross the fences. Until I fix the hole, yer stayin' in Ponyville, near other ponies, understood?"

"Yes, Applejack." Apple Bloom turned to the ground disappointed. The group began to move away from the platform so each of them could get home.

"Please don't tell my aunts, Rainbow Dash! Please, pretty please!" Scootaloo begged to her idol.

"Don't go putting yourself in danger then." She retorted.

"The... Everfree?" Somnia turned to her mother hoping for an explanation.

"It's a dangerous forest outside of town." Twilight pointed in the general direction of where the forest was. "It's right near Fluttershy's cottage. I don't want you going out that far until we know why the timber wolf wandered so far from the forest, understood?"

"It's a free-forest?" The filly asked.

"In a way. Ponies don't control the weather there and it grows very quickly. Far too dangerous to walk in alone."

"No, I mean, is it a free-forest? We called the caretakers wild-foresters, they're creatures the lurk beneath the ground using nature magic to control forests." She explained. "Can I talk to it? Maybe it's all a big misunderstanding."

"You can't talk to the forest, especially not one that has killed ponies before." Twilight felt a little silly for the declaration about not letting her daughter talk to a supposedly unthinking object, but stranger things had happened the past couple of days.

"But I knew a wild-forester from the Crystal Expanse! Isirilas was a friend of the family!"

"Isirilas?!" Fluttershy looked back to the filly surprised. "Where did you hear that name?"

"My aunt took me to--" She glazed her eyes along the horizon, taking note mountain formation nearby. "Here! It's Isirilas! They're friendly, if I can just--"

"No, and that's final." Twilight put her hoof down, hoping to stop this before she got any bright ideas. "Even if it is this 'Isirilas', they have killed ponies before, foals even. I'm not going to allow you to put yourself in danger because you might know them."

"Pleeeeaaaaasssee?" Somnia pleaded, giving her most innocent smile. "I promise I won't go into the forest."

Twilight sighed. Evidently, she had a lot of work to do in teaching her to take caution. "I'm sorry, but I'm not going to risk it."

Somnia frowned, and not even a moment later her mind began planning. Sneak out of the library at night? No, the owl will probably alert Twilight. Make a fake excuse and go during the day? Somepony might see her, and she can't go by Fluttershy's cottage either.

Keep this up and you're never going to be let out of the library.

Don't you want to see Isirilas? They've probably had a tough time since the quarantine couldn't be enforced.

Of course I want to speak with them again. I'm just not sure if now is the right time. Perhaps a bit more patience? Wait until your mother is willing to let you go near the forest, then we can act without her knowledge.

Better plan than what I was thinking.

I know. You would have gotten grounded forever if you did that.

"I know that scowl." Twilight shook the filly from her thoughts. "Don't even think about it."

For crying out loud...

The three finally got back to the library, and the first thing Spike did was go to his basket to take a nap. There was something Somnia wanted to ask her mom, but she wasn't sure how she would react. She trotted over to where Twilight was sitting at her desk signing papers, steeling herself for the conversation to come.

"Hey, mom, can I ask you something?"

"I really should be getting these letters filled out." She took one look at the stack before putting down her quill. "But that can wait. What would you like? It better not be about the Everfree Forest."

"No, you were clear about that." Somnia muttered, still a little annoyed, but she pushed it aside for now. "I wanted to ask you to teach me."

Twilight's eyes went wide. "Shoot! I completely forgot to enroll you in school! We'll go see Ms.Cheerilee tomorrow, and we can even stop by town hall to give Mayor Mare the paperwork for you living with me." She floated over a small pile of papers. "There's a few questions I couldn't answer, so I was hoping you could help me fill in the blanks."

"Umm, okay." Somnia went to the side of her desk, waiting for the first question.

"Alright, so exactly how old are you?" Twilight didn't exactly know why Celestia took a guess at the age, but it would be better to get it filled in correctly.

"Almost nine. My birthday is late summer." She replied.

Twilight wrote down on the paper, a little surprised that she was younger than the CMCs by nearly a full year. She seems more mature than that...

"Okay... Who was your previous teacher?"

"Grar mostly. You taught me about royalty stuff, and dad taught me military things, but Grar mostly taught me about the math and science-y stuff."

The tutors the queen hired weren't happy to learn I was teaching beyond her age. Speaking at less than a year old, able to perform calculus by age four, nearly completed the mandatory curriculum for all ages by the time of our displacement. I take great pride in my work, although she isn't an ordinary student. I probably could have pushed her more, but that would have been an unnecessary burden on her. Grar filled in for Twilight.

"I'll just write 'Grar - limited contact'." Twilight scribbled down the answer. "We'll probably need to test what your reading comprehension and general knowledge is."

"Actually, that's what I wanted to talk to you about!" Somnia interrupted. "I, um, can't read Ponish."

Twilight blinked a few times, making sure what the filly said sunk in. Of course she couldn't read Ponish! She couldn't even understand it when they met!

"Oh." She floated a few books over, Twilight giving a quick look at their contents. "That's going to be a problem. I guess I'll have to teach you before we can enroll you in school. All the other fillies and colts your age know how to read and write, I'll need to catch you up."

Somnia nodded, waiting for the next question. "Let's see..." The next sections were subdivided by pony type, and given that Somnia was an alicorn, all three sections would apply. "When was the first time you cast controlled magic?"

"Oh..." The filly winced, looking away nervously.

"Have you not cast controlled magic before?" Twilight thought it a bit strange at her age to have not at least tried using magic for basic tasks, but Sweetie Belle still had problems with her own magic.

"I, um..." She backed away, voice lowering. "I can't use magic."

"Pardon?"

"My horn doesn't work." She mumbled barely loud enough for Twilight to hear.

"I guess I will add a visit to the doctor on top of our plans tomorrow." Twilight didn't want to ask the next couple of questions, but she needed to know. "Have you flown before?"

The filly flapped her overgrown wings as hard as she could, not even getting a bit of lift, giving an answer for her mother. "And have you displayed any earth pony characteristics? Unnatural strength, gardening prowess, baking, or..." She knew the answer by the ashamed look on the filly's face. There was one last question that she could fill in under 'psychology', but Twilight herself dreaded to ask it.

"Is that it?" Somnia asked deflated by the round of questions.

With a deep breath, she decided to wing the last question. "Yup, that's it. Thank you for answering these for me. I do appreciate it."

"Yeah, whatever." The filly walked away, headed out of the room. Twilight felt kinda bad that she couldn't use magic or fly. Perhaps there is something medically wrong with her? Her thoughts immediately went back to what Somnia had said about the royal family and her dad. Could she have lost functionality by inbreeding?

Not wanting to dwell on it anymore, Twilight went back to her paperwork. More than half of the stack still needed to be read and signed. Even so, she looked back to the last question on the form, dreading to know the answer.

'Has the foal undergone a traumatic event that has caused a major negative impact on their psyche requiring special attention?'

You know I am sorry, right?

Yeah, you've apologized a thousand times.

Only six-hundred-thirty-seven, still a few hundred more before I reach a thousand.

Is there anything you don't remember?

If I knew that, I would remember it.

Right... Somnia rolled her eyes. She didn't want to stick around the library, and she was certain that her mom was feeling bad about bringing her inadequacies up. Good thing she could meet an old friend again to hopefully feel better.

"Hey, yer the filly from the farm." A familiar voice called out to her from the right. Turning to the yellow and red filly, she saw her with the other two hanging out at a table setup outdoors, the building they were in front of being some sort of bakery. "I never did get yer name."

"Somnia." She walked over to them. "I already know yours from the train station. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, right?"

"Yup! Did you hear what we did? It was totally awesome!" Scootaloo exclaimed, clearly wanting to tell the story again.

"She probably heard us talking to our sisters." Sweetie remarked. "Probably knows we're grounded too."

"Yeah, sorry about that. But your sisters are kinda right, timber wolves are pretty dangerous if they don't know who you are."

"Is it possible to tame a timber wolf?" Scootaloo raised an eyebrow.

Somnia shrugged. "Is it possible to tame a pony?"

"OOoo, oh! Rarity has books with ponies chained up like dogs." Sweetie added. "They seemed to be training them!"

"Ah don't think that's the same thing, Sweetie." Apple Bloom and Scootaloo giggled.

"Yeah, not the same." Somnia playfully rolled her eyes. "My aunt and uncle sometimes used to do things like that when they spent alone time together. Well, at least they thought they were alone."

"Speakin' of, what were ya doin' on the train with the others? Did ya come from Canterlot?"

"Are you staying in Ponyville for a while?" Scootaloo excitedly got up on her hooves, leaning over the table.

"I guess so. I don't think my mom will be moving away anytime soon." Somnia took a seat at the table, hoping to avoid getting in trouble with Twilight for going against her orders. Plus she really should get to know others her age. "She won't be challenging the decree, so I think I'm going to be staying here."

"Your mom? Did she just move to Ponyville?" Sweetie questioned. "Oh! Were you in Canterlot because you became an alicorn recently?"

With a giggle. "Oh no, I was there for my mom's coronation."

The fillies stared at her. "Princess Twilight's yer mom? But I thought--"

"Neither did she until a few days ago." Somnia preemptively answered. "It's a bit of a long story."

"Oh, okay. Are you going to be going to school at the schoolhouse? Or do you have some royal tutors that the princesses gave you?" Scootaloo asked, curious. "It would be cool to have a new filly in the class, especially one who's a princess!"

"We don't know she's princess." Sweetie countered, looking thoughtfully to Somnia. "Are you one?"

"Of course she is! All alicorns are royals!" Apple Bloom answered. "An' even if she wasn't, Princess Twilight is, which makes her a princess too!"

"We don't know that for certain!"

"The other two are right. I'm technically a princess." Somnia nodded to Sweetie, turning to the group at large: "Don't treat me like one though. I can handle myself like anypony else."

Says the filly who constantly gets herself in trouble and needs somepony to help her.

Shut up, Grar. We wouldn't be in this mess if you hadn't done that insane experiment that split you in half.

I was just poking fun. I know you can handle yourself, and in due time you won't need to rely on others to save your flank every time you manage to get chased by wolves or assassins.

"Somnia?" Scootaloo waved her hoof in front of the filly's face.

"Huh? Can you repeat that?" Somnia snapped back to reality, a little embarrassed about zoning out.

"Are you joining the class? You're our age, right?"

"Oh, um, I don't know. My mom still needs to teach me some things." She conveniently left out what those things were. "And I might have learned past my grade."

"Thought so. Princess Twilight wouldn't let her own foal fall behind on the books." Apple Bloom winked. "How come we haven't heard of ya before? I'm sure Applejack or Rarity would have mentioned if Twilight had a filly."

Somnia drew a circle on the table with her hoof. "She didn't know about me. She kinda, sorta, is a resurrection of my mother from a really long time ago. I returned less than a week ago."

"How old are you then? Are you as old as Princess Celestia?" Sweetie questioned.

"I don't know for certain, but several tens of thousands of years have passed." She gave a shy smile. "I'm only eight, nine in a few months."

"Hey, I got an idea!" Apple Bloom excitedly huddled with her friends, whispering quiet enough so that Somnia couldn't hear, or so they thought.

"She's new to Ponyville, right? And might not be in class, so why don't we help her make some friends?"

"I don't know, she's a princess. What if others only want to be her friend because of that?" Sweetie Belle added.

"Come on, it's worth a shot. Cutie Mark Crusader Friendship Makers?" Scootaloo excitedly whispered. "Haven't tried that yet!"

With nods of agreement, they turned back to the patiently waiting filly. Apple Bloom spoke: "Hey, Somnia, do you know anypony our age in town?"

"Other than you? No, I haven't really had time to talk to other fillies and colts." She admitted.

"Then that's what we'll do!" Apple Bloom declared. "Don't worry a hair on your head, we'll introduce you to the others in town!" She cast a glance to the sky, checking the position of the sun. "Tomorrow at noon, meet us at the schoolhouse. I'm certain the others would love to get to know ya!"

"Okay! I'll be there!" Somnia nodded happily. She was looking forward to meeting more ponies, and hopefully it would go smoothly.

"Somnia! Get up!" She heard the voice of Spike through the pillow. "It's almost noon! Come on!"

Her eyes shot open. I need to get to the schoolhouse. Jumping from bed, she quickly trotted down the stairs to the main circular room where she spotted Twilight sifting through a box of books.

"Hey, mom! Where's the Ponyville schoolhouse? Those three fillies from the train station want to introduce me to some ponies."

"Good morning to you too." She glanced over annoyed with her daughter. "We have plans, remember? We need to stop by town hall and the doctor's office. We can go to the schoolhouse after."

"But I need to be there for noon!" She complained as Twilight packed up the box she was looking through, floating saddlebags onto herself.

"We can meet them after school. Right now, we need to run errands."

"Aww." Somnia reluctantly followed behind her mother as they left the library.

"Spike! Can you attend to anypony while I'm gone? Thank you!" Twilight called back before closing the door. "Alright, town hall first. Your appointment is for one-thirty at the doctor, so we should have plenty of time to get through the paperwork."

"Why do we need to go to the doctor? I'm fine!"

"No, you're not. All other fillies and colts your age should at least be able to channel magic by now." She stopped, lovingly lifting the filly's head with a hoof. "It won't hurt to have you checked out. If it's fixable, then wouldn't you like to know?"

"It's not though!"

"How do you know? Do you know why you can't use magic?"

Yes. Grar answered for her.

Twilight narrowed her eyes. "Either way, I made the appointment and it wouldn't hurt to have you checked." She stated firmly, resuming her march to town hall. It only took a couple of minutes before they arrived, a few ponies casting curious glances at the alicorn duo.

Entering into town hall, they headed back to the mayor's office. Lightly knocking on the mayor's door, the brown and grey maned earth pony answered rather quickly.

"Princess Twilight! What can I do for you today?" Her eyes fell on Somnia. "She's staying in Ponyville? I thought the princesses- Nevermind. How can I help you?"

"There are some papers we need to go over." She floated out a sealed letter from her saddlebags. "This is also for you."

The mayor took the letter as the three settled at her desk. Somnia and Twilight sat across from her as she looked over the letter, a smile slowly forming on her face. Reaching back to a filing cabinet, she opened it and took out another letter, comparing the two. She chuckled, putting them away in the cabinet before turning back to Twilight.

"Princess Celestia really hasn't changed her format in all these years. So, you wanted to talk to me about some papers?"

Twilight floated the bundles of paper from her saddlebags over to the mayor. Taking a quick look through the papers, the mayor's expression changed between surprise and professional stoicism.

"I was hoping you could finalize these forms. The royal decree at the top authorizes certain exemptions to be made in the process." Twilight added.

"I must admit, it is surprising to learn you are a mother after all these years." The mayor began separating the papers into four piles. After finishing, she passed a few papers back to Twilight. "Keep these for your own records, they are just copies." Looking over the largest of the piles, she went through the papers, reading them and signing. One particular paper caught her attention.

"Is something wrong?" Twilight nervously asked.

"I need a doctor's signature for the birth certificate."

"We'll be seeing the doctor after we're done here, I can get them to sign it."

"No, I need the attending doctor to sign it." She hoofed back the sheet. "I can't in good conscious approve the birth certificate without their confirmation. Of course, it isn't necessary if they are no longer practicing medicine, but if you don't want to go through a medical examination to determine her age and your parentage then I would recommend seeking them out."

Twilight bit her lip, quickly looking back through the royal decree, seeking something specific. "Category seven, section eight, sub-section B." She placed the paper in front of the mayor.

"I guess that settles it." She signed the certificate, moving on the to remainder of the pile. Taking the decree back, she combined the three remaining piles in a particular order before turning around and putting the files into a small tray. "We're done here."

"Really? It's that easy?" Twilight asked confused.

"Normally, no. With the royal decree I can bypass nearly every procedure we would normally undergo for adoption. I'll need to file away those papers later, but otherwise you are free to go." She smiled back.

"Oh. Alright. Thank you, mayor!" Twilight shook the mayor's hoof, looking to Somnia to do the same. Once they said their goodbyes, they made their way out of town hall and towards the bakery Somnia saw the previous day. There was the crow again, sitting atop the sign preening itself. Twilight couldn't keep her eyes off of it, that night's confrontation still fresh in her mind.

"I thought we were going to the doctor's office?"

"Now you want to see the doctor?" Twilight smirked to the filly. "That went faster than I expected, and since you have been behaved so far, I thought that we should get some cupcakes."

"I'm not gonna argue with that." Somnia got a bit of a skip in her step as they made their way over. Pushing open the door, they saw a pony was finishing up their order and Pinkie Pie waving over to them.

"Hi, Twilight! I'll be with you in a minute!" She yelled out, Twilight and her daughter taking a seat in one of the booths. Closing her eyes, Somnia could feel motions around her. Pinkie Pie was unpredictable thus far, and she wanted to learn how to anticipate her actions.

"Still tired?" Twilight asked softly. "You were pretty restless last night."

"I'm predicting." She bit her lip in concentration.

"What can I get for ya?" Pinkie said, a disappointed Somnia opening her eyes to see the pink mare standing next to their table with a notebook and pencil in her mane's grip.

"Two cupcakes!" Twilight answered.

"Three cupcakes!" Somnia countered, giving her mother a sly smile.

Twilight shook her head playfully. "Two cupcakes, one with extra frosting."

"I'm hungry! I didn't have breakfast!"

With a sigh: "Three cupcakes." Twilight relented.

"Three cupcakes coming right up! Want anything specific to top them?" Pinkie inquired.

"Just frosting on mine."

"Sprinkles on one, coconut flakes on the other!" Somnia answered.

Both mares blinked. "I'm sorry, we don't have coconut flakes." Pinkie apologized with her best service smile.

"How about dried dates?" She asked hopefully.

"I can check in the back, but if I don't have any, is there anything else you wouldn't mind?"

"Pepperoni bites would be nice!" She gleefully said, just as another pony was entering into Sugar Cube Corner. They choked on the drink they had while the two mares next to the filly looked at her slightly disgusted.

"Somnia! We can't eat meat. It's not good for you." Twilight chastised.

"We don't have that either." Pinkie added with a shrug. "No griffons in town, and Mr and Mrs Cake don't want to have that reputation either."

"Alright, sprinkles if there's no dates." Somnia mumbled.

"Okie-dokie! I'll be right back!" Pinkie trotted off happily. Sitting across from her, a worried Twilight nervously tapped her hoof on the table to get Somnia's attention.

"Hey, um, try not to tell anypony you like meat, okay? Most ponies aren't comfortable with that."

"With eating meat? Aren't thestrals meat-eaters?"

Twilight lowered her voice so only they could hear. "We don't have any thestrals in Ponyville, or in most of Equestria, for that very reason."

"Huh? But what about griffons? They eat meat more than thestrals do!" Somnia countered.

"Griffons are different. They tend to keep to themselves and aren't aggressive towards ponies usually."

"Aggressive? Thestrals aren't aggressive to other ponies!" She stared into her mother's eyes, noticing the shifting emotions. She couldn't tell all of them, but there was at least a bit of fear mixed in.

"Just... Don't mention it to anypony, alright?" Twilight reiterated sternly.

Somnia crossed her forelegs, sinking back into her seat with a huff, brooding and disappointing her mother. A minute later, Pinkie Pie brought their cupcakes over. "Sorry, didn't have any dried dates. You wouldn't believe how popular they are with Cranky and Matilda! Enjoy!"

The two sat in silence as they ate. Twilight took a bite of her cupcake, thinking about everything Somnia has said over the past couple of days. She was an odd filly, that was for sure. Her mind wandered back to the school enrollment form, the one question she still hadn't answered.

"Somnia?" She spoke up, grabbing the filly's attention mid-bite into her second cupcake. "Has anything bad happened to you before? Like, so bad it keeps you up at night?"

"Take your pick." The filly shrugged, going in for a bite. Swallowing, she continued. "How many times have you seen ponies decapitated? Or raped? Or seeing your own family being tortured? Honestly, you have to narrow it down."

"You've... seen all of that? When? How?" Twilight asked, her apatite receding.

Another bite. "Every night, more or less. I saw a vision of you with Spike and another pony about to be killed by shadow monsters. Looked like a wasteland."

"What?! You dream of this every night? But why?"

"Ask Grar." Somnia mumbled, filling her mouth with the rest of the cupcake. "You gonna finish that?"

Twilight pushed her remaining bite over to Somnia. "I've seen you in the morning, Somnia. You cry in your sleep, you toss and turn, are you sure--"

"Yes!" Somnia slammed her hooves onto the table. "I'm fine! I've been having these dreams for nearly nine years and will for the rest of existence! Do you think I want to see creatures suffer?!" Droplets fell onto the half-eaten cupcake. "Do you think I wanted any of this?! To see my friends and family hurt?! I deal with it, like I deal with everything else! I've lost friends of mine to assassins! I've been attacked by somepony I trusted, nearly killed because of them! My entire family was murdered, then I find out they were resurrected with no memories of me! I don't have a choice! Better for me to suffer than for somepony else! And when I grow up, I want to stop the pain before it happens to others!"

Twilight looked over to see Pinkie at the counter along with the customer, both staring at the filly with concern. Getting up from her seat, Twilight motioned for Somnia to follow. The filly hesitated at first, but followed along after another motion. The two walked in silence towards the hospital, both wrapped up in their own thoughts.

Twilight, you must--

"It's your fault, isn't it?" She growled.

The answer went silently as they got to the hospital. Entering into the reception area, Twilight approached the nurse at the front desk. "Is Doctor Horse available? The one-thirty appointment might be longer than I thought."

"Let me check." She picked up a folder disinterested, her eyes widening in surprise at what she read, turning up to see Twilight. "Princess Twilight! I'm so sorry! Of course the doctor's available!" She got up from her chair, going into the back offices. A moment later, the doctor came out smiling.

"Princess Twilight! You're early! Please, come this way." He led them to an examination room. Twilight levitated Somnia onto the examination table, the filly still looking absolutely miserable.

"You had concerns about her horn and wings?" The doctor asked Twilight.

"At first, yes. But I think there are a few other things that are wrong."

"I'm fine!" Somnia yelled back. "I can handle it! I need to handle it myself!"

"Somnia, you're experiencing it every night. I'm not just going to sit by and let you suffer."

"Pardon, but I'm lost." The doctor interjected. "Is she having nightmares?"

"I'm fine!" The filly yelled again. The doctor motioned for Twilight to follow him into the hallway. "I know what your going to say! Might as well just say it!" She yelled out to them as they left.

"What is it doctor?"

"She's defensive, meaning we won't get much from her right now. Can you describe the symptoms?"

"She has troubled sleeps every night, sometimes her pillow is damp in the morning, I've caught her purposely trying to stay awake whenever she is tired."

"Any bed wetting or dark mannerisms?" The doctor asked concerned, Twilight immediately understanding what he was getting at.

"No, nothing like that. I think it has to do with her cutie mark." She wasn't entirely certain, but Somnia had dodged the question on more than one occasion always deflecting with 'Ask Grar'. If he had done something horrible to her that earned her that cutie mark...

"Do you know how she got her cutie mark? What it means, or what talent it grants?"

"A little. She says that she can 'predict' things. I think she has some form of foresight, but I don't really understand more than that."

"I see." The doctor considered it a moment. "Perhaps I should reach out the Canterlot Employment Bureau, see if I can find somepony else with foresight. If they can find--"

"No, we won't find anypony." Twilight cut him off. "Only Princess Celestia is known to have semi-conscious foresight. I'll reach out to her, see if she had issues in her foalhood."

"That would be the best course of action." He nodded. "Now, what did you originally wish for me to check over?"

"Her horn, wings, and hooves. I want to know if there is a medical explanation for her not being able to use magic."

The two reentered the room, filly having collapsed in exhaustion, softly whimpering. The doctor gently nudged her to wake her up. It took a few attempts but she eventually opened her eyes.

"Somnia, right? I'm Doctor Horse. I would just like to take a look at you. Don't worry, I won't ask anymore questions." He helped her sit up, Twilight taking note of her legs shaking.

The doctor began by placing a magical aura detector next to her. "We're just going to be gone for a moment." The two briefly left the room and the doctor remotely activated the device. Returning to Somnia, he took a look at the readings, his brow raising at what he read. Picking up a horn fork, he lightly tapped it on her horn getting a wince from her.

"This is going to be uncomfortable, alright? Tell me if you are feeling hot or if it gets unbearable." He turned her around to examine her wings. He kept his hooves off of the wings at first, eventually slowly parting the feathers and stretching the wings. Somnia straightened her back but made no noise as he carefully examined them. The doctor eventually turned back to Twilight: "Do I have permission to examine blood flow?"

Twilight nodded, not exactly knowing what he was going to do. "Somnia? Is it alright?"

She nodded. The doctor began rubbing just under her wings, them naturally extending outward as he held a hoof to the artery. After a few moments, he let go, letting the filly relax. Somnia took deep breaths to calm herself down while the doctor turned her back towards him. Wrapping a small device around each hoof: "Would you please flex each of your legs one at a time?"

She obeyed, giving a flex on each leg. The doctor gently prodded the flexed area as he moved along. Taking off the devices, he reviewed all the readings before turning to Twilight. "I'm sorry, but there is nothing medically wrong with her. Her feathers are smoother than normal pegasus feathers, but that shouldn't impact her ability to fly, nor do I believe it is anything serious."

"Then what is wrong? Why can't she fly or use her horn?"

"Medically, she is in excellent condition. Muscles remind me of some of the farm ponies in town, similarly the wings are only surpassed by you and one other patient if you two were her age."

"Rainbow Dash." Twilight nodded. "She can't stay quiet about it whenever she gets her wings checked."

"While I'm not allowed to confirm or deny, it would be a good guess." He smiled. "Somnia's hooves, horn, and wings all are magically deficient. Simply put, she can't use any form of magic other than what her cutie mark is gifting her and to grasp objects with her hooves. I would say she possesses as much magic as the background-field if it wasn't for her unusual dreams and ability to manipulate her hooves."

"Told you." Somnia snarkily remarked.

"What did the device say? I remember back at the School for Gifted Unicorns we used them to determine enchantment strength." Twilight ignored the remark, hoping to get a bit more information.

"Background radiation and our passive influence from outside the room. She quite literally shouldn't have any more magic than my stethoscope. I would like to do an additional test using the complete-field TMI, if that would be alright?"

"But what about the schoolhouse? I want to meet other ponies!" Somnia whined.

Twilight went over to her, cupping her cheek with a hoof. "You want to know what's wrong with you, don't you? This is the last thing. It won't take more than a few minutes, I promise we'll be there when school ends." Of course, Somnia hadn't been paying attention to the time. It was barely one-thirty and school ended in an hour-and-a-half.

The doctor led them to a larger room with a massive machine, leaving to retrieve some technicians. Crystals were embedded into the side of the machine with enchanted servos pumping magical liquids through the device, a singular massive crystal pointing directly to where the subject was supposed to lay down. Twilight helped Somnia up onto the bench. "Lay on your stomach. You may feel ticklish during the procedure."

The doctor returned with a technician and nurse, the four adult ponies gathering inside a room to the side with a one-way mirror while Somnia nervously laid on the bench under the device. I hate hospitals...

"Alright, we are warming up the machine now. Don't be alarmed by what you will feel, it is perfectly normal." The doctor called out to her. A whirling sound filled the room, the glow from above her getting brighter. She could see the enchanted crystals shifting color, slowly at first then rapidly until they were a blur of white.

"We're ready to begin. Lay as still as possible."

The whirling got louder, her fur standing on end at the massive magic field being projected around her. Her eyes instinctively closed. Rolling off the side of the table, she barely dodged the large crystal shards as an explosion occurred directly from the center of the crystal.

She wasn't lucky enough to dodge the stray shards that cut her, but she dodged the filly-ending shards that punctured straight through the table. She opened her eyes to see every single crystal burst into small pieces along the machine, the magic capacitors breaking and spraying magical liquid around the room. There was a white glow all around her that intensified with each passing second.

"SOMNIA!" She heard her mother call out as she got up, turning over towards the door to the observation room and seeing her burst through before stopping her tracks completely stunned.

"Mom?! What happened?!"

"Sweet Celestia..." The doctor muttered behind Twilight, falling to his knees, her mother barely resisting the same urge. Arcs of magical energy impacted the walls and liquids around the room, breaking and repairing the walls, giving the liquids an even brighter glow. The air whipped around Somnia as though she were at the center of a storm, her mane annoyingly getting into her face.

A second later the white glow receded along with the other effects, leaving the room in a soft purple glow coming from the leaked magical liquid that the machine was using. Igniting her horn to provide light, a scared Twilight stared at her daughter. As the doctor shakily got to his hooves, Twilight slowly approached where Somnia stood.

"Mom?" The filly asked, feeling more awake due to the adrenaline pumping through her. "What's wrong? Why did the machine blow up?"

"Shhh..." Twilight hugged her, getting bits of blood onto her own fur. "It's okay, you're alright. It's going to be alright. I'm here." Somnia wasn't convinced, given the fear in her mother's voice. The doctor slowly approached from behind, examining the now broken machine.

"That crystal is capable of handling energy surges in excess of four-thousand swirls!" He examined the smoking shards sticking out of the table. "It cost over three-hundred thousand bits for that crystal!"

"Doctor, I think there's more to- wait, four-thousand swirls?!" Twilight finally realized what he had said before shaking her head, there would be time later to worry about that.

"Now how are we supposed to examine advanced magical conditions?" He lamented, much to Twilight's annoyance.

"Doctor! She's hurt. A little first-aid would be expedient!" Twilight commanded, taking her own look over the filly. It wasn't too bad. The worst cut ran the length of her body, but none got deep enough to require stitches.

They retreated to the examination room where the doctor applied bandages along all the cuts. She looked like she had just been in a war-zone with how many bandages she had on her. Twilight didn't wait to stick around to get yelled at, instead choosing to leave a note to invoice any damages to the royal treasury before leaving.

A confused Somnia trotted alongside Twilight on their way towards the schoolhouse, her mother so deep in thought that she didn't even notice the other ponies in town excitedly chatting to one another.

Four-thousand swirls... Her mind remembered the estimates provided about the Elements of Harmony. They were nearly six-thousand swirls, maybe a few hundred more, but still within range. Her ascension was estimated at only one-thousand-two-hundred. They had barely reached town hall when a magnificent flash of light illuminated all around them. It was a light Twilight remembered all too well.

Landing in front of them, Princess Celestia stood tall, concern overwritten by confusion as she flicked her eyes between the two alicorns.

"Twilight, we detected a massive energy spike from Ponyville. Is there something I should know?" She raised a brow.

"The royal treasury will be receiving an invoice for three-hundred thousand bits?" She nervously backed away.

"Is she alright? Looks like she was thrown into a plunder-bush." Celestia leaned down to check on the filly.

"I'm fine. Hurts a little, but the doctor said it will be healed by tomorrow!" Somnia cheerfully stated, returning to her previous self after the near-death experience.

"That is good." Celestia turned to Twilight. "What was that about three-hundred thousand bits?"

"It would certainly explain the energy spike." Celestia mused as they sat waiting for the school day to end. "It should come in greater than the Elements of Harmony. I'm afraid we won't be able to cover up Somnia's existence for much longer."

"Shouldn't she have been noticed at the coronation?" Twilight asked confused.

"I've suppressed the news using my authority granted by the Noble's Council. However, a spike like that will entice researchers to investigate. Twilight, every pony from here to Canterlot felt it in one way or another. It's impossible to hide something that powerful from everypony."

Twilight gulped. "H-How much..."

"Too much. Eleven-thousand at least." Celestia put her head in her hooves. "Good thing it only lasted a second."

"But it was longer than that!" Somnia exclaimed from between them.

"The peak was eleven-thousand, it lasted only briefly." Celestia summoned a letter in front of Twilight. "Cadance wrote this to me before I left to find you."

Twilight nervously read the letter. The Crystal Heart activated spontaneously, and the northern Magic Anomaly Detection station equipment maxed out on their more sensitive devices even at that distance. Teleporting the letter away, Celestia continued.

"I'm going to be receiving non-stop dignitaries the next eight moons asking what happened."

"B-But wouldn't eleven-thousand swirls have wiped Ponyville off the map?"

"Unrestrained, yes. But that makes it even worse." She stared into Twilight's eyes. "Restrained means that it is at least several thousand more, maybe even double if the layer of magical protection wasn't fully repealed."

"And I can't use any of it!" Somnia laid down on the bench in huff, both alicorns chuckling at the display, a nice bit of relief from the seriousness of the situation.

The bell on the top of schoolhouse rang out, and a notable increase in chatter inside the schoolhouse alerted them to the oncoming foals. Bursting like a tide, the first students didn't even see the princesses casually sitting next to their schoolhouse. Then came the shocked gasps.

"I should be going. Take care of her, and please avoid situations like that in the future." Celestia stood up, smiling down the curious students. "Farewell, my little ponies."

Then she was gone in a flash. The CMC rushed out, all three spotting the bandaged up Somnia and rushing over.

"Princess Twilight! Somnia!" They called out excited, Sweetie was first: "You'll never believe what happened! Every unicorn's horns started sparking in the middle of class!"

"It was awesome! Sweetie looked like she was going to squirt all over her chair and desk!" Scootaloo laughed, getting a glares from the side by her friends.

"Scootaloo!" Cheerilee admonished from the doorway, nervously looking to the alicorns. "P-Princess Twilight, what are you doing here?"

"I need to talk to you about enrolling Somnia." Twilight stood up, turning back to the crusaders. "Keep her company? I'll just be a few minutes."

Entering the classroom with Cheerilee, the teacher sat down at her desk, pulling out a small bottle to drink. "What the buck just happened?!"

"Pardon?" Twilight played the fool, walking up to her desk.

"It felt like somepony lifted me into the air! And the fireworks from the students! How am I going to explain to their parents what just happened?!"

"I don't think you'll need to worry about that." Twilight rubbed her neck. "Princess Celestia is already on damage control, I'm sure this will be national news."

"Honestly, what happened?" Her eyes widened. "National news?!"

"It wasn't just here." Twilight nervously chuckled. "It impacted the entire town. And probably Canterlot too..."

"Well that's a relief." She took another swig from the bottle before putting it back in the locked drawer at the bottom of her desk. "Now, you wanted to talk to me about... what's her name?"

"Somnia." Twilight pulled up a loose chair. "I'm looking to enroll her at the school."

"Is she new to town? Her parents really should come see my directly." Cheerilee shrugged. "But whatever, today's been strange enough. Where did she go to school previously?"

"That's the thing, she was privately tutored. I don't have any testing documents I can grade at the moment because I need to teach her how to read and write Ponish."

"She... doesn't know Ponish?" Cheerliee took a moment to absorb it, letting out a sigh. "Who's her parents? She doesn't look THAT young. A filly her age should have been taught Ponish by now."

Twilight straightened up defensively. "I'm her mother, and it isn't because I neglected her, she knows her native language, just not Ponish."

Reaching for the bottom drawer again, Twilight stopped Cheerilee's hoof before she could reach it. "What do I need to enroll her when I finish catching her up?"

"Let go of my hoof and I'll show you." Cheerliee flatly said, getting free to reopen the drawer to pull out a single sheet of paper. "This is the admission form. Include the parental survey with this form filled out then bring it to me. That's it."

"Oh." Twilight looked at the sheet a little disappointed. "I thought there was more to it than that."

"There is, for me. I have to find a seat for her and teach her." Cheerilee smiled.

"I'll just take this and fill--"

The hairs on Twilight's back stood up, Cheerilee similarly straightened herself out feeling the same thing. Jumping from her chair, Twilight rushed for the door.

"Dinky even lifted her entire desk!" Apple Bloom excitedly told Somnia.

"It was awesome!" Scootaloo exclaimed. The group had moved over to the table on the playground to have somewhere to sit a bit more private. "I felt like I could fly!"

"You talk about others reacting, but we all saw your 'wingboner' fluttering. Eck." Sweetie mock gagged.

"Hey! I was just excited! You know, by all the fireworks." She crossed her forelegs embarrassed.

Apple Bloom and Somnia giggled. "So how 'bout you, Somnia? Feel anythin' from where you were?"

The alicorn filly shrugged, a knowing smile on her face. "Maybe I had something to do with it."

"Yeah, right." A voice yelled over from the side. "No pony could have done that."

"Here we go again..." Sweetie muttered under her breath.

"And who is this? Another poor pony to try convincing to join your little club?" A pink and purple filly wearing a tiara approached with her little grey pet following close behind.

"Like anypony would stand you for longer than a day." The grey filly snickered.

"Hey!" Scootaloo turned to them. "We're nicer than you! Why wouldn't somepony want to hang out with us?"

The pink filly gave a devilish smile. "Because you're a blank flank." She looked over to the side, spotting Somnia's cutie mark. "Come on now, why are you hanging out with these losers? You already have your cutie mark."

"Yeah? And?" Apple Bloom shrugged with a hoof, curious to see where Diamond Tiara was going with this.

"It's not right for ponies with cutie marks to hang around with ponies without their cutie marks."

"Why not?" Somnia spoke up, temper slowly rising.

"We have our special talents, and they don't. They're talentless. They'll only drag you down." She gave a deceptively sweet smile. "You don't want to be held back, do you? I'm sure a unicorn like you can do magic a hundred times better than her."

"That's mean!" Sweetie cried out, her own patience wearing thin. "Why won't you just leave us alone?!"

"I'm doing a favor for everypony." She circled the table. "It's the right thing to do."

Just like those would-be nobles, just like the businessponies from the coast... Somnia closed her eyes, hoping to push back the anger. She hated the teasing, the insults. A way for ponies to try putting each other down, and worst of all, it was disharmonious.

"And what is your talent anyway? Being mean?" Scootaloo shot back.

"I'm a natural leader. Unlike you blank flanks!"

"Blank flanks! Blank flanks!"

Blank flanks

Getting down from the table, Apple Bloom spoke up: "Somnia, wait!"

"You think your oh-so-high-and-mighty because you have a cutie mark, huh?" She marched towards the two bothersome fillies, both a bit surprised by the anger but still confident they could handle it. "What do you know about cutie marks anyway? You believe it is merely talent? It isn't. It's destiny. A marker of who you are as an individual and what your path in life is. Everypony, everycreature, on Equus has a destiny from the moment they are born until the moment they pass back into the realm of souls. You don't need a cutie mark to have a destiny."

The bandages along her body slowly slipped off of her, revealing wings that extended to their full length. A light breeze swept over the playground, sending a chill down the spines of everypony present including the few other foals that were off playing. Both now backed up, realizing they weren't dealing with a unicorn.

"These fillies may not have an idea of what their destiny is, but they are a hundred times the pony you are in character. They look for their destiny harder than you have worked in your entire life." Both fillies backed away from the menace approaching them, hair flowing in the wind, temperature dropping and light levels lowering slightly. The CMC stood up on the bench seats, watching with absolute fascination and unnatural pride.

"What have you done with your life? Nothing but torment those you see as inferiors! What does that give you? Satisfaction for hurting others? A sick sense of joy from the pain inflicted? I know who you are, what you are." The two bullies fell to their flanks, hugging against each other as Somnia practically towered above them, her unshakable gaze firmly focused into their souls. "You are pathetic bacteria! Worth nothing more than the grass of a rotting field! And you will always be so as long as you continue down the path of disharm--"

"SOMNIA!"

One blink. Two blinks. Then she snapped back to reality. The winds whipping around her flew off in all directions and it seemed as though the area brightened slightly more. Two shriveled and terrified fillies sitting in a puddle of their own making, holding onto each other crying, were directly in front of her. Slowly turning, she saw the CMC standing on the table, shocked yet not afraid. Her vision slowly settled on her mother next to the teacher, both looking horrified.

Buck...

Chapter 4: Regency Council

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FOALCON CLOP CHAPTER, SEXUAL THEMES ABOUND FROM HERE ON, YOU'VE BEEN WARNED #####

You worry too much, Lulu.

You may have faith in your student, but she has yet to prove herself without the elements.

Trust me, she is more than capable of handling this task.

Are you sure you don't want me to go as well?

Yes, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor are already there. The others will be joining them soon.

The empire's magic is powerful. It cannot fall again, my sister.

She will succeed at her task. And when she does, we'll know that she is that much closer to being ready.

Ahem.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

The filly laid in her bed, not wanting to get up. She felt horrible, even after apologizing to those two fillies, who she learned were Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. How could I let myself get carried away like that? Why didn't you warn me?

You needed to experience it for yourself. Besides, you wouldn't have listened to me even if I did. Emotions can be very powerful, both for good and bad. I don't disapprove of what you did, but others see it differently. A balance must be struck between what is desirable, and what is acceptable.

"Somnia, are you gonna get up? I was really hoping we could practice today." Spike poked her with his wooden sword. The past couple of days they had been practicing sword fighting since Somnia wasn't allowed outside the library. They were getting decent at handling the swords, although that only made the impacts all the more painful.

"Ugh!" Somnia lifted herself from her bed, following Spike to the lower level. Once wielding the wooden sword in her teeth, she closed her eyes and focused on the task at hoof. No more moping, no more regrets, there is only the fight.

"Well, what are you waiting for?" Spike taunted, hoping to get her to make the first move. Opening her eyes, she went in for a swipe only to be stopped by a purple aura.

"Not today, you two. We're going to be seeing the other princesses later, and I don't want to answer questions why you two are all bruised up." Twilight turned from her desk to look at the two stuck in combat stances. Letting them go, they both put their swords down on the small towel Twilight set up for them.

"But there's nothing to dooooooo!" Somnia whined, pushing against Twilight. "Can I plllleeeeeeeaaaasssseee go outside?"

"You're still grounded until after the Princess Summit, missy." Twilight pushed aside some mane that had fallen in front of Somnia's eyes. "If you hadn't scared those two fillies, you wouldn't be in this situation."

"I didn't mean to!"

"Yet you did." Twilight countered. "Actions have consequences, even if you had the best intentions standing up for your friends."

"Can I at least have acce--"

"For the last time, no!" Twilight spun back around, not willing to entertain another plea to have access to the restricted section of the library. For a such a young filly, she certainly was more 'adventurous' than those her age, likely due to being exposed to such things every night as she unfortunately had learned. If only I had a spare bedroom...

"Aww." Somnia walked over to the fiction shelf, picking out a few picture books to work through. While she still didn't know a whole lot about how to read Ponish, the pictures helped move her along.

Moving up to her bed, she plopped down and began working through the first book. Halfway through, she turned over to look at a particular part of the wall. Slowly making her way over, she carefully opened the secret compartment. Her smile turned to a frown as she discovered it was empty.

"He hid his stash elsewhere. Nice try, but after the second time we both caught on." Twilight called up.

"Oh come on! You read them too!"

"No I don't. It's disgusting." Twilight turned in her chair to look up to the annoyed filly. "And you shouldn't either. It's not healthy. I tolerate Spike because he at least doesn't make a mess."

"It's not that bad!"

"You make the whole room reek and I have to wash your sheets every day! I have to sleep up there too, you know!" She shook her head. "And I don't want to give Spike any ideas. You're both too young for that."

"But I did it with my cousin! I'm old enough!"

"Somnia..." Twilight rubbed her eyes. "Too much information..."

"Give me access to the restricted section and I'll go to the bathroom!" She demanded, a wicked grin on her face. "Or I'll give you all the dirty little details from when we--".

"That's it!" Twilight levitated a key over. "Make sure to lock it back up when you are done and put the key in that secret drawer. I don't want to deal with this."

"Thunk you!" Somnia mumbled as she happily carried the key over to the restricted section. Opening it up, she entered the small closet, looking through the various books. There it was, the book she was looking for.

Taking the book with her, she didn't go to the bathroom, but instead Twilight's desk. Dropping to book down on the side of the table, she smirked to her mother.

"Somnia! I thought... you..." She saw the title of the book and blushed. "Was this in the restricted section?"

The filly nodded. "I'm off to have my fun, unless you wan--"

"No! Go!" Twilight pointed away from her desk, the filly happily trotting off back to the restricted section to pick out her material of choice. Turning her attention to the book, Twilight opened it up and flipped through it, making sure it was still in good condition. Sighing, she opened her desk and put it away, she'd deal with sorting it later. How did she know it was--

"How's 'A Diamond in the Rough'?" Somnia called out, sending shivers up Twilight's back.

"I-I wouldn't know." Twilight went back to her letter, hiding a blush.

"I think I'm going to read th- Oh, what's this?" Somnia trotted back, a small booklet in her mouth.

"Somnia, if it's anoth--" She stopped as soon as she saw the cover, or lack thereof. "GIVE ME THAT!"

The filly jumped backwards. "I'm goin' to Rarity!" She tried running to the stairs but was stopped by Twilight's magic.

"How long did you know that was in there?!" Twilight demanded, taking the booklet from Somnia's mouth.

"Since Spike accidentally put in in there yesterday. I must say, it's quite the inspired read." She smirked, having read bits and pieces the previous day when Spike accidentally left the cabinet unlocked.

Twilight narrowed her eyes. "Tell. Nopony."

"Let me outside, and I'll consider not telling Rarity."

"She'll never believe you."

"I'll find it again unless you destroy it. Alternatively, if you want to keep your great work..." She gave her cutest smile.

Twilight bit her tongue. "Go have your fun."

"I just did. Thank you!" Somnia trotted back over to the restricted section, locking it up without taking anything out.

"But I thought--"

"I get enough material from my dreams. Real stuff is better than fake stuff." She shrugged, putting the key away in the secret drawer. "See ya for lunch!"

Once the filly had left, Twilight opened the booklet, making sure the devil hadn't tampered with anything. Everything was just as she left it, but since she had time to herself...

"...I love you, Charity. I wish we could stay like this forever." Somnia giggled as she approached Carousel Boutique. Hopefully Sweetie Belle would be home, or at the very least that Rarity would know where she was. Entering into the boutique, she didn't spot anypony attending the front room, so she decided to have a look at the dresses while she waited for Rarity. If one thing could be said about Rarity's work, it's that she really did put a lot of care into making them the best possible. A tired Rarity exited the backroom, work glasses still on and mane messy.

"Welcome to Caros- Oh, Somnia? I thought you were grounded?"

"I was, but mom and I came to an arrangement." She smiled knowingly.

"Ehhh, right." Rarity said uncertain what to make the devious filly. "If you're looking for Sweetie Belle, she's at school right now."

"Oh..." Somnia thought of what else she could do. She still needed to see Isirilas, but that could wait until after the summit. Although, she did want to speak with Fluttershy about how she knew them. "I guess Apple Bloom and Scootaloo are also busy..."

"I'm sorry. If you would like, you can model for me." Rarity opened the door to her backroom, smiling hopefully.

"Hmm... I have nothing better to do, so sure." Somnia happily trotted into the backroom.

"Just stand on that platform." Rarity motioned to a small elevated area. Hopping onto the platform, Somina had no method of seeing what exactly Rarity was doing at her desk. She brought over some fabrics and sheets of paper with designs on them. "I've been dying to try these designs for fillies but Sweetie has been too busy lately to help me out. Hold still while I work and tell me if you feel uncomfortable."

The two worked for what felt like days to Somnia, her legs ached from standing still so long, but at least Rarity always had something to talk about.

"Hmm..." Rarity examined the pseudo-dress on her model, carefully studying it. "Would you like to move around a bit?"

Somnia got down from the pedestal, taking a brief walk around the room. The dress had a bit of extra room for her wings that rubbed a bit too much for her liking. When she got back onto the pedestal, she gave her answer: "Still rubs the wings too much."

Taking off the extra pouches, Rarity took a closer look around the wings. "Yes, I see why now. Your wings don't have feathers."

"What do you mean they aren't feath- EEP!" She shrieked as Rarity carefully touched her wing. "S-Stop!"

"Darling, your wings aren't entirely made of feathers. There seems to be--"

"P-Please s-stop..." Somnia panted out, Rarity ran her hoof between the 'feathers' with absolute fascination, getting the filly to the point where her legs shook.

"Hmm?" Rarity looked up from the wings she was examining to see the panicked expression from the filly. "Oh. OH!" She backed away. "I'm so sorry, I completely forgot! I didn't know it was that bad. Scootaloo always let me--" Her eyes narrowed. "I'm going to have to have a talk with Rainbow Dash."

"J-Just no more touching!" Somnia took deep breaths while Rarity took off the mock dress.

"Um..." Rarity looked over the dress. "I really am sorry." She put the dress into a basket on the other side of the room filled with other materials that need washing. "I didn't realize you were that sensitive."

Shakily stepping down from the platform, Somnia finally noticed the droplets, giving a disappointed sigh. "I probably should have taken mom up on that offer."

"Pardon?" Rarity raised a brow suspiciously.

"It's nothing, we made a deal about when I have to, well, you know?" She blushed.

"Oh dear..." The fashionista went over to give Somnia a hug. "I didn't realize she was into that sort of thing."

"Huh?"

"You really should deal with your needs on your own. Other ponies think poorly on parents helping their foals with those sorts of feelin--"

"What?! I'm talking about clopping!" Somnia stared at Rarity. "She didn't want me doing it in my bed."

Rarity blushed, looking away from the filly. "I-I thought- Nevermind, let's forget this conversation ever happened."

"Agreed."

WAKE UP!

"Huh?" Somnia opened her eyes, seeing she was being carried mid-air in a purple aura. She looked around, spotting her embarrassed mother carrying her through the train car.

"You're awake?" She asked, opening a door to a private compartment.

"Um, yes? Why are we--"

Twilight set her down on the bed in the room and closed the door behind her. "Exactly how often are these urges of yours?" She sat next to Somnia. "I know I said I didn't want to know, and I still don't, but I don't want you to..."

"To what?" A confused Somnia asked her embarrassed mother.

With a sigh: "You were clopping in your sleep, and Rarity said you made a bit of a mess at the boutique when she was touching your wings."

"Oh, um..." Somnia thought back to her time in Excalicorn, a bit embarrassed at the repeat of the other time she was invited to a royal summit by her mother. "Daily? Twice a day?"

"Ugh!" Twilight put her head in her hooves. "You're as bad as a stallion."

"Sorry?" She shrugged uncertainly. "I usually had somepony to help out."

"Just... do what you need to. I shouldn't have to tell you that it isn't appropriate to do things like that in public." Twilight got up to leave.

"Yeah. I know." Somnia turned down to the floor, waiting until her mother left. Once she had, she pounded her hooves on the pillows angrily. Buck you, buck you, buck you!

Excuse me? You're the one who has these fantasies.

I wouldn't if you hadn't bucked up!

It was an entirely intentional feature of the gene-writing, as I've told you.

Like that makes me feel any better!

Would you have liked one of the other sacrifices to be with you? How about the serial killer from Troti? Or the foal rapist from the border territories? Admit it, I'm the best choice.

Buck you! She slammed her head into the pillow. He was right, out of all the ponies and creatures used in the experiment on her, he was the only one who hadn't committed a severe disharmonious offense, other than sacrificing thousands of ponies in his brutal experiments. It still didn't sooth her nerves though.

Look on the bright side, at least siring heirs to assist with royal duties won't be difficult. Speaking of--

"Ugh, I'm not going to try getting pregnant again!" She got up from the bed, marching her way back to the royal car. She opened the door to embarrassed looks from the other ponies inside, Spike even had a pillow on his lap. The smell still was noticeable through the perfume Rarity used to cover it up.

The filly walked over and sat on the blanket where she had previously sat, staring out the window hoping to forget all of this. Twilight wrapped her wing around Somnia, putting her own head on the filly's so that the two could look out the window together.

"Hey, I got something for you." Twilight whispered in her ear. Passing a small bottle over her shoulder, Somnia took a brief look at it. Many of the words she didn't really know. "It helps. Take one whenever it gets too bad, okay?" She kissed the top of Somnia's head.

"Thanks." Somnia whispered back, turning the bottle in her hoof.

"Look's just like it used to!" Somnia's eyes shimmered as she stared up at the massive spire in front of them.

"It was made back then? But why?" Twilight traced the filly's gaze to the Crystal Heart, spinning slowly at its place on the base with the black crow hopping around it searching for food scraps.

"It wouldn't even be standing if it wasn't for me. Remember that time I saved the Crystal Empire from King Sombra?" Spike not-so-humbly bragged.

"We know. Ya tell us every time we come here." Applejack rolled her eyes. The group walked over to where the Crystal Heart gently spun, crow flying away.

"Hey, Twilight, it's pretty awesome that your attending your first Princess Summit. Ya feelin' the pressure?" Rainbow Dash nudged her friend.

"Oh, I am excited. But, to be honest, I'm a little nervous too." She answered.

"You're 'nervicited'! It's like you wanna jump up and down and yell 'YAY ME!' But you also wanna curl up in a teeny-tiny ball and hide at the same time!" Pinkie acted out her response. "We've all been there!"

"I'm there almost every day." Fluttershy added.

"You've got no reason to fret, Twi. Everything's gonna be just fine." Applejack reassured the princess.

"Twilight, darling, why don't you wear your crown?" Rarity questioned, giving a glance to the filly donning the large jewelry piece.

"Just feel a little self-conscious about wearing it. There's been a lot that has happened the past week and I haven't gotten accustomed to all the change yet." She smiled to Somnia. "Though, it does look good on her." The two giggled.

"You are a princess now, Twilight. Embrace it!" Rarity wrapped a leg around Twilight's withers. "I'm telling you, if I had a crown like that, I would never take it off. Why, I'd sleep in the thing."

"The queen slept with her amulet on every night!" Somnia chimed in. "I don't know how she ever got used to that though."

"Sounds dangerous." Fluttershy included as they began making their way up the steps into the castle. The occasional guard bowed to the group, and the patrolling guards gave quick salutes before continuing on their way. The guards to the throne room opened the doors to the fanfare of horns.

One guard stood out compared to the others, a single pegasus guard with luscious orange fur, accented by gorgeous blue hair that shimmered in the beams of light that came from the large, vertical windows. His muscles were lean, but not--

Twilight was brought from her thoughts as she collided directly into him. He looked briefly at the blushing princess before clearing his throat: "Her highness, Princess Twilight Sparkle!"

Cadance laughed as she trotted over to the embarrassed purple princess. "Twilight! It's always good to see you!" They embraced, the filly approaching the orange guard curiously.

"We have so much to discuss." Celestia cut in, approaching from the throne. "But it can wait until tomorrow. You all look tired from your journey. The guards will show you all to your rooms. Sleep well, everypony!"

"This way, your majesty." The orange guard led the group down the hallways. He assigned the rooms for each of the other elements before reaching Twilight's room a ways around the corner. "And here is your room, your highness. Princess Cadance had three beds setup for your family."

"Thank you, sir." Twilight nodded to him approvingly.

"But I'm not tired!" Somnia complained. "Hey, wanna play a few board games before bed?" She asked the three others present.

"My apologies, but I must be finishing my duties." The guard gave one last bow, leaving the other three.

"Hmm... We have time for one game before bed." Twilight opened the door, going over to the closet to see what they had available. There wasn't really anything in the room to play, but she heard giggling behind her. Turning, she saw a blanket draped over Spike like a robe, Somnia wielding a longer pillow she grabbed from her bed.

"Get back, foul wizard!"

"You cannot beat me, filly!" He gave a gravelly voice. "For I have turned those you love against you!"

At her cue, Twilight levitated another blanket around her, approaching Somnia from the other side. "Somnia~ Please, join us, sweetie!"

"Never! I shall free you from the taint of darkness!" She leapt at Spike, putting the pillow against him as he tried to grab her. Grabbing the sheet in her mouth, she ran around Spike, tying him to the pillow in a prison of his own robe. "Release her!"

"You don't understand, Somnia~" Twilight approached. "I'm with him willingly..."

"But mother, there is so much more to the world!" Somnia tried convincing her, meanwhile Spike slowly unwrapped himself. "The path of disharmony leads to sorrow and pain!"

"Some pain is good~ If it means others don't hurt, then I'll gladly accept the suffering." She dipped her head down to Somnia's level. The filly blinked a few times as she recalled their time at Sugar Cube Corner. Closing her eyes, she side-stepped the swipe Spike made at her with the pillow, hitting Twilight on the face. "Oof!"

"Ha! Didn't like that, now did--" She tripped over the blanket on the ground as she backed up, falling onto her back. "Ow!"

"We have you now, filly! You will never be able to escape my grasp now!" Spike jumped onto her, the two wrestling on the floor for dominance.

Twilight watched on in amusement, at least for a minute. "Spike! That's enough!" She commanded, noticing a slight change in the way they were playing.

"But... Spike... wins..." He struggled out as Somnia held him down.

"I wasn't expecting reinforcements." Somnia giggled, giving Spike the chance to flip her over back onto the floor. He now laid over her, both panting as they looked into each other's eyes.

"I... win?" He panted out uncertain. She was smiling, her eyes longingly staring into his own.

"Spike! Off!" Twilight lifted him off of Somnia with her magic grasp, putting him down on his bed. He saw the look of disapproval in Twilight's eyes, and disappointment in Somnia's. Then his gaze went downward. Quickly, he grabbed a pillow and covered himself.

"Aww... It was about to get really fun!" Somnia complained, getting up to go over to her own bed.

"Take the pills! That's an order, missy!" She turned to Spike. "And no more wrestling for either of you!"

Twilight floated the blankets back over to their respective beds, hoping that this would be the end of it. She placed her crown on her nightstand then settled in for bed, a bit more tired than she was before. Sleep should have come easily, but like the previous couple of days, her wings refused to comply.

"Twi, something wrong?" Spike asked from his bed at the grunts coming from Twilight.

"Can't... tuck...!" Her wings sprung up out of the sheets. "Ugh!"

"Stiff wings?" Somnia turned over, and if Twilight could see her she would have probably seen a smug grin on her daughter's face.

"Just trying to get comfortable!" Twilight managed to get her wings to calm down briefly, right before they shot back up. "Ugh!"

Both Spike and Somnia laughed at Twilight's misfortunes. "Oh yeah? How do you deal with stiff wings then?"

"Oh, you know, this and that." Somnia made a licking noise.

"SOMNIA! Not in bed!"

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SKIP THIS SECTION IF YOU DON'T LIKE FOALCON! IT'S COMPLETELY OPTIONAL! #####

Spike couldn't get to sleep. He was too worked up and embarrassed about what happened. What was Somnia to him? His sister? Niece? Sure, they weren't related but it still felt weird. She wasn't proper like Rarity, or on the edge of messy like Applejack. She was simply messy, and very energetic.

"Hey, Spike." A quiet voice whispered next to his ear.

"Yeah?" He asked uncertain of why she was so close.

"Mom's asleep. I can't sleep, and clearly you can't either."

"Okayyy..." He whispered as he felt her climb onto his bed, getting underneath the sheets. He felt warmth right where--

No, he can't do this. She's like a sister, and far younger than him. Even so, his body responded where his mind refused. She giggled. "Wanna? Just have to be quiet so mom doesn't wake up."

"Somnia, w-we shouldn't. She--"

"She's not awake to stop us. Come on~" Her breath against his neck excited him further. "The little guy just wants a friend to play with, and I haven't had somepony inside in weeks~"

Moving her hips back and forth, she enticed him to come out of his scales completely. His breathing became more inconsistent as she excited his shaft with her dripping pussy. Her breath against his neck felt better than he ever imagined.

Her hoof grabbed his shaft, positioning it towards her open maw. "I don't hear a no~"

"Spike... want..." He growled, grabbing down on her pushing himself into her. A squeak came from her but she kept quiet as he slowly thrust in and out of her. Thrust after thrust he filled and emptied her snatch, both panting onto each other's necks.

His member didn't take long to start approaching climax, being the first time he had sex with somepony, and by the muffled moans from Somnia, she wasn't too far off either. Both of them desired release, even if that meant it was quick.

"Where..." He panted out erratically. She grabbed onto him tightly, whispering:

"Inside~"

His mind went blank as his body tightened up at the single word. The filly gave one last good thrust against him before digging her face into his neck to muffle herself. His shaft pulsed steaming hot semen into the filly's pussy as she rode out her own climax, occasionally giving another thrust against him extracting even more out of his dick. It took a minute before either could make anymore movements.

The two panted in the darkness of the room for a few more minutes, both basking in the afterglow of each other's embrace. The filly rolled off of him as his shaft retracted, laying her head on his chest.

"Thanks." She whispered back still partially out of breath, kissing him on the cheek. "I really needed that."

"Yeah... Not a problem..." He closed his eyes satisfied, sleep drifting into the forefront of his mind.

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END OF FOALCON SECTION #####

Bliss. All those weeks without somepony to cuddle, to fulfill that itch. Somnia didn't care if she had to stoop down to a dragon, she just wanted release. Even so, she couldn't fall asleep, unlike her partner that laid next to her. There was still too much running through her mind.

Bits-and-pieces were understandable, but with the sudden change in hormones came the other things. The sadness, the anger, the happiness, old memories drifting in the ethereal plane that was her mind. It was terrifying and beautiful to see it all float around aimlessly. All the horror, all the joys, all the sorrow. It brought tears to her eyes recollecting everything that she remembered.

A small creak spooked her from those thoughts. Turning over to face Twilight, she could see that it wasn't from her, but from the door. A cloaked figure carefully stepped into the room, taking caution not to make any noise.

"Psst!" The figure stopped dead in their tracks, slowly looking over to see the filly waving to come to her. The mare panicked. Quickly grabbing the crown from the nightstand, she stuffed it into her bag just as the lamp fell to the floor. It shattered and she made a run for the doorway, or she would have if she didn't trip on her own cape.

"SHIT! FUCK!" She cursed out as she face-planted the floor.

"Wha- What was that?" Twilight shot up in her bed, taking a moment to wipe her eyes which gave the mare time to recover from her tumble. Twilight's eyes focused on the crown poking out of the saddlebag. "My crown! She's got my crown!" The two rushed out of the room, not casting another glance back.

"Huh? What?" Spike mumbled out, sitting up. "Twilight?"

"I'm going back to my bed. This never happened." Somnia stated seriously, getting out of his bed.

"Wait, what?! That wasn't a dream?!"

"Shhh..." Somnia put her hoof to his mouth, replacing it with her lips. "None of this happened."

"O-Okay." He whispered back as she trotted back to her own bed.

Settling down into her bed, she made sure to position her tail carefully so the bed didn't show any signs of their secret act, closing her eyes and trying going to sleep with all the thoughts running through her. After some time, she didn't know how long it had been other than it felt like all night, Twilight reentered the room.

"Somnia? Spike? Are you two alright?" She turned on the light and looked between the two tucked into their respective beds. A servant entered with a dustpan and brush to clean up the remains of the fallen lamp.

"You were gone when I woke up." Spike got back up, rubbing his eyes. "What happened?"

"A pony stole my crown. Princess Celestia said she will tell us more in the morning." Twilight collapsed down onto her bed. "Somnia? You awake?"

The filly kept quiet, hoping to trick her mother into thinking she slept through the event. The castle servant left the room and the three settled into their own beds, although none would get much sleep for the remainder of the night.

"Sunset Shimmer. A former student of mine. She began her blah blah blah..." Somnia tuned out the oldest alicorn as she stood waiting for this entire meeting to end. She hadn't had time for a shower yet, and it was really bothering her. Twilight managed to spot the mess in Spike's bed, but assumed he had done it on his own, giving him a stern talking to and, unfortunately, letting him use the shower after her. Looking absently between the alicorns, her eyes locked with Cadance's. The princess flicked her gaze between her and Spike, making Somnia turn to the dragon who promptly turned away.

"...know more about this place than even I do." Princess Celestia finished, walking through the group towards the exit. The group followed along, Princess Cadance falling to the back of the pack where Somnia trailed. She took a single sniff of Somnia's mane, smirking at the filly.

"Have fun last night?" Somnia cringed at her voice.

"Tell. Nopony." She mimicked her mother from the previous day.

"My lips are sealed." She giggled. "It's not polite to interfere with other pony's love lives, now is it?"

Somnia found an interesting repeating pattern on the crystalline floor of the castle. Her own thoughts on the matter fought each other for dominance. On one hoof, the royal family always messed in each other's love lives, often to a ridiculous degree. The memory of when her own mother tried setting up one of her uncles with a mare, literally doing so by seducing him into a threesome. That was after her brother had been born, too. On the other, she felt embarrassed for being found out. Is it a strangers place to judge a pony for their love life? Is it a family's place? What if it is for the greater good of Equestria? Does even a romantic partner's wishes submit for the betterment of all creatures?

The group entered into one of the side rooms, a mirror facing the door on the far side of the room with little else around. The princesses took their places at the side of the mirror to tell Twilight all about her assignment. Falling to the back of the group, Somnia, Spike, and Rarity were absently watching, all three seeming to be having their own thoughts.

"You understand the importance of your task?" Celestia finished.

Twilight nodded. "Of course."

"Good. Then you must go at once."

With a sigh, she approached the mirror, saddlebags on her back. Rainbow Dash sprung up and landed in front of Twilight. Rarity muttered something before going to stand next to her.

"Woah, woah, woah! She's going, we're going with her." She exclaimed, Pinkie Pie letting out a squee. "Right girls?"

"Oooh! I'm so 'nervicited'!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"You do realize that's not a real word, right?" Applejack remarked.

Princess Celestia stepped in. "I'm afraid I can't let you go."

"What?! Why not?!" Rainbow demanded.

"Sending all of you could upset the balance of this alternate world, creating havoc that could make it impossible for Twilight to get the crown back from Sunset Shimmer. This is something Princess Twilight must do alone."

"Time is of the essence." Luna continued. "On the third day, when the moon reaches its peak in the night sky, the gateway will close. And once it does, it will be another thirty moons before you will be able to use it to return."

With one last look to her friends who called out words of encouragement, Twilight stepped into the mirror.

"Spike?" Somnia whispered to him as he held his claws in his mouth. Without warning, he charged the mirror.

"Spike, NO!" The elements called out as he dove into the mirror.

Celestia sighed. "Now that is settled, let's go to the round table so that we may begin this summit."

"Um, Celestia?" Somnia nervously spoke up. "Can I have a shower first? Spike hogged it this morning."

"The rest of us will go to the round table then." Luna rolled her eyes. "We'll have a guard waiting to escort you outside your room. Try to make it quick, you will want to hear what we are discussing."

Stepping from the bathroom, Somnia made her way over to the door. Opening it, she saw a certain pink princess waiting for her.

"Aunt Cadance? What are you doing here?"

The larger alicorn smiled down to her. "Soooo, who was it?"

"Who was--" Somnia considered her next words carefully. "Who do you think it was?"

Cadance put a hoof to her chin. "There are a few guards and servants that would probably obey such an order, a few that would even enjoy it." She walked up next to the filly. "Did you at least use a protection spell?"

The filly blinked at her, the smile disappearing from Cadance's face. "Condom?"

Somnia started walking. "Sweet Celestia, Somnia! Did they even pull out?!"

"It was Spike, alright!" She finally answered.

"Knew it." She smirked, catching up with the filly. "Honestly, how he was feeling towards you in the throne room gave it away."

"Really, how was he?"

"He wasn't exactly subtle staring at your tail. Even Rarity seemed to notice." She remarked, a little disappointed. "Even without my gift of love, I could see he really thought differently about you."

"It was one time!"

"That's all it can take." Cadance put a wing around her. "But Twilight probably already told you that you shouldn't be doing things like that. You're young, your hormones are running wild, plenty of colts and stallions would take advantage of you. You're lucky that he's a dragon and not a pony, otherwise you would have an even bigger problem."

"It's not like it's easy to get pregnant." Somnia mumbled.

"What do you mean? One time can be all it takes, especially for a young and healthy pony."

"Have you tried having a foal with Uncle Shining?" Somnia stopped, glaring Cadance in the eyes. "Honestly, have you? How about my cousins? No children in over a thousand years?"

"They swore an oath of celibacy, they wouldn't have foals anyway." Cadance swallowed, feeling that she knew where Somnia was headed. "What are you saying?"

"Alicorns have trouble conceiving! It's why my mom only had three foals in thousands of years!" She stomped on the floor, her eyes growing wet. "Grar told me I needed to start early, because every foal is precious!"

Cadance looked around the hallway, there was a single guard at the end they were headed towards. Lowering her voice: "Are you saying I might not be able to get pregnant?"

"I'm saying it's hard! Really, really hard!" A few tears fell to the ground. "We had one major settlement of alicorns in the Harmonic Empire, and nearly every alicorn lived there so that the chances were increased to have another alicorn! There was even a festival for that thing, but mom kept me inside every year!"

"B-But what about non-alicorns?" Cadance held out hope that she would at least be able to have a foal with somepony like Shining.

"Not the same. If you want to have a non-alicorn foal with a non-alicorn, magic can help you." She mumbled. "But alicorns need too much magic to create a new one from birth."

Breathing a sigh of relief. "So Shining will be able to have foals with me?"

"Yeah, I guess, if you don't care if they are an alicorn or not." The filly trudged forward. "I don't have a choice. Only alicorns can be royalty."

Cadance followed after her. "Who says only alicorns can be royalty?"

It is the natural order of things. The plan left no room for exceptions. Although, with Somnia being our only option forward, an exception can be made for her sake.

"And you didn't tell me I could get pregnant with any foal until now?!" She angrily yelled out, the guard shuffling nervously as they passed.

"Guard, disregard what you just heard." Cadance regally ordered. "It's to the right." Cadance and Somnia continued there walk around the corner. Two guards stood outside of the meeting room at the far end of the hall.

I thought you understood that you wouldn't face that problem in the future. I also never said that you had to start early, only that the royal family needed to start early. I'm sorry if you mistook my approval for an order.

"So all those times my cousin and I--" Cadance put a hoof over her mouth.

"We can talk about this later." She turned to the guards sternly, them opening the doors for the two alicorns. A large round table in the center of the room was surrounded by the regal sisters and the elements. Four seats were empty. Moving to the seat next to Cadance, Somnia laid her head onto the table disinterested about all of this boring royal stuff.

"I'm glad you could make time in your busy schedule for us." Celestia shook her head. "We have much to discuss, the least of which is your behavior."

"Auntie, she's been through a lot. Leave her be." Cadance tried to defend, hoping not to get Somnia feeling worse.

"Oh, we've heard." Luna sat back, giving her biggest and smuggest grin. "Something about clopping in front of everypony on the train ride over? Threatening two fillies on a playground to the point where Twilight received a legal request to show up before court? Causing an E.U.P. mobilization and costing the crown three-hundred thousand bits?"

"We get it! I'm a public menace!" Somnia angrily turned to the regal sisters. "What else? Ruined my mother's life? Sexually confused Spike?"

"Sexually what-now?" Rainbow raised a brow at the filly.

"I'm certain neither of those are true." Rarity reassured her. "Twilight is just under a lot of stress and Spike has always had a thing for ponies."

"Yeah! He's always chasin' somepony's tail." Rainbow snickered, failing to get a rise out of Rarity.

"In either event," Celestia interrupted, "you will need to be taught the proper way to handle yourself if you are to be Queen of Equestria."

"Woah, hold on now. That's somethin' we need to talk about." Applejack interjected.

"I agree. She's just a filly, and she's still new to Equestria." Fluttershy added.

"And Equestria doesn't need a queen!" Rainbow blurted out.

Celestia gave her best smile, floating over a stack of paper in front of each pony. "The plans are already in place. Given Somnia's unique potential, Luna and I talked about proceeding with the plans our mother put in place if Somnia returned."

"As for your concerns, Rainbow Dash, I assure you it is completely justified." Luna continued. "Having a strong pony capable of taking down threats before open war at the head of the nation will do wonders for Equestria's internal and foreign policy. The dragons wouldn't dare raid a nation who's leader could render them extinct without breaking a sweat."

"Extinct?" Fluttershy warily looked at the stack of papers. "That's horrible! Why would you expect Somnia to do that?"

"We don't. It's the threat that matters." Luna answered. "Having Celestia and I on the throne certainly gets a lot done, but we simply won't be able to compete with her when she's fully developed."

Celestia cleared her throat. "Not even considering the loyalty we will garner from creatures by having an unbeatable leader that treats them with integrity and respect. It is an opportunity for world peace, an end to all wars."

"Sounds too good to be true." Applejack grazed over the papers. "An' how do we know she's all that and a bag of crisps?"

"Remember your hair standing on end?" Luna and Celestia rotated. "The oppressive feeling that something was wrong." "The sparks from your horns, your wings extending involuntarily?"

"That was her." Celestia finished, letting it sink in for everypony. "One layer of magical protection was repealed at Ponyville General Hospital. A single layer that was repaired after a second. You all felt it. We felt it from Canterlot."

"We even lost a good vase too." Luna smiled to her sister.

"We lost the entire lab, Luna. Years of work destroyed because of one small slip-up. If it wasn't for those magical protections, I doubt Ponyville would still be standing."

"Nopony is that magically powerful. Not even the Elements of Harmony did something like that." Rainbow sat back skeptically.

"And yet, here she is." Luna gestured to Somnia. "If what our father spoke of is to be believed, she could harness the power to pierce the veil itself into the universe at large."

"There's more ponies?!" Pinkie excitedly jumped up onto the table. "How many other worlds? How many, how many?!"

"More than there are stars in the sky." Luna answered. "In fact, each star is like our own sun, with it's own planets. What you see is merely an illusion of what the real universe looks like."

"So who controls those suns?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"Nopony. It's natural outside of Equus. Our own sun is engineered to respond to our world. Perhaps Grar can go into more details." Celestia finished.

Not right now, everypony seems to still not be fully understanding the depth of their ignorance about reality. I'm afraid I will break their minds if I told them the complete truth.

"Which is why we want to discuss this proposal with you." Luna opened each copy to a particular page. "We would like to form a regency council until Somnia is old enough to take the throne. Each of you were made nobles of Eques--"

"We're nobles?!" Rarity excitedly squealed. "When?! How?! Why wasn't I told?!"

"Didn't Twilight tell you?" Celestia was a bit confused by the outburst. "I included it in that crate I gave her."

"Legally, you are all greater nobility, which will pass to your descendants should you choose to have any." Luna continued, slightly annoyed at the interruption. "Since each of you are nobility and element bearers, we believe it would be a good idea to include you on the regency council. That way you will have a say on what happens within Equestria. If Somnia finds our services useful after her coronation, she can choose to enact the clause to convert it into a new Council of Equus."

"But the council was booooorrrriiiinnnnngggg." Somnia whined. "Mom took me to it so much. They only talked about stupid stuff like money."

"That's government for ya." Applejack chuckled.

"Somnia, you must understand there is more to ruling than giving orders." Celestia smiled down to the would-be queen. "It requires a strength of character to push on in spite of your own desires. Everypony included on the council will give you reports on developing situations which you will need to decide what to deal with based on the information provided."

"Sounds like a solid plan to me." Fluttershy cheerfully agreed.

"So I'll be one of the most powerful ponies in Equestria?" Rarity stared wide eyed to the princesses, her eyes sparkling with wonder.

"Indeed, Duchess Rarity of House Belle." Luna snickered. "It'll grow on you, I assure you."

"I'm already liking it. A lot." She sat back in her chair, contented. "Does this mean I outrank Blueblood?"

"That's another thing." Celestia flipped a few more pages in everypony's stack. "The old treaty is going to be revised."

"Are any of you familiar with the Treaty of Unicornia?" Luna asked receiving shakes all around the table except from Cadance. "The Treaty of Unicornia outlined the conditions of the monarchy of Equestria and the aristocracy surrounding it. Princess Platinum's lineage would receive the highest titles in-name-only besides the queen herself. It is by this treaty that my sister and I have been restrained. All our royal decrees are derived from that treaty."

"Breaking it will be no easy task. It effectively devolves the powers of the nobility within Equestria. My suggestion is to replace it with a new treaty, one which keeps some of the noble privileges while removing their actual power from the higher levels of our government."

"Why not just get rid of the nobles altogether? They don't seem like they are contributing anything to Equestria." Rainbow countered.

Celestia looked between the attendants. "Nothing I say leaves this room, understood? That is the plan. When Somnia assumes the role of queen, we would like her to eliminate the aristocracy however she sees fit. They are too dangerous to the security and prosperity of Equestria going forward."

"Eliminate them? I take it back, I don't want to be a noble!" Rarity called out.

Celestia sighed while Luna chuckled at the response. "The queen will decide what to do with each noble. You five will probably be fine to continue your lives as normal."

"And what about the Crystal Empire?" Cadance asked concerned. "Will we lose our autonomy?"

"Partially." Luna replied. "You will become a vassal of Queen Somnia and the new Harmonic Empire. The local affairs of your domain will still be for you to handle, however the queen may choose to act according to the interests of the nation within your territory without restraint."

"I don't like the idea of answering to a foreign power." Cadance turned down to Somnia who was still laying her head on the table. "I guess it will give me good reason to try influencing you for the better."

"Now you understand, it is in all our interests that Somnia grows up to be a kind, compassionate, and strong leader." Celestia grinned, flipping the pages back over to the main article.

"Let's start from the top..."

"How much?" Rainbow squinted her eyes.

"My first allowance. Twenty bits minimum." The filly smirked, knowing she would totally win the bet. It had been several days since Twilight and Spike had gone through the portal, and everypony was anxiously waiting in front of it for their return. There was a bit of a scare on the third day, one which Celestia had explained was due to how time ran differently between the two realities.

"You're on!" They turned back to the portal, silently waiting to see who would be right. Less than a minute on their side translated to nearly two minutes in Equestria. Fluttershy was keeping track of the time while they both watched anxiously. Sweat rolled down Rainbow Dash's forehead as her time came and went. All she could do was hope the Somnia overshot, but even then it would be too close for comfort.

Then the portal shimmered, Twilight stepping out on her two hind-legs as she corrected her orientation. Fluttershy hit the stopwatch and rushed over with the rest of the elements to greet their friend, Spike following close behind from the portal.

"Twilight!" "Ah, you're back!" "You've got your crown!" "I knew you could do it!" "Oh, we were so worried."

Celestia approached behind the group as they hugged. "Sunset Shimmer, is she alright?"

"I think she's gonna be fine. I left her in good hands." Twilight proudly said.

Rainbow shrugged. "What are hands?"

Somnia picked up the stopwatch, looking at the time. One second off, but still enough to win. "I win!" She declared, the rainbow mare flying over to take a look at the stopwatch.

"Aww, no fair!"

"You two bet on when I'd be back?!" Twilight glared at them, but with a shake of her head she let it slide since she was too tired to deal with their antics. While the group walked down the hallway towards their rooms, Somnia pulled Spike back a bit to have a word with him.

"Hey, um, you alright?" She whispered, making sure not to get too close.

"Y-Yeah. W-Why wouldn't I be?" He stuttered out nervously.

"You're acting weird, that's why. Are you okay?" She asked again. "Is it really that bad?"

"I-I, uh, oh wow, it's getting hot in h-here?" He ran ahead of her, the filly unamused with the disengagement.

"Dancing?!" The elements exclaimed just before Twilight bumped back into the orange guard she had before.

The guard smiled to her. "We've got to stop bumping into each other like this." He stated before resuming his patrol.

Twilight's eyes lingered on him for several seconds too long before asking: "Who was that?"

"He's a new member of the castle guard. Flash Sentry, I think." Cadance smirked at Twilight knowingly. "Why? Do you know him?"

"Not exactly." Twilight kept walking, slightly smiling to herself.

"Oooh! Somepony's got a crush on the new guy!" Applejack teased as the other elements swarmed around her.

"No. No, I don't!" Twilight denied unconvincingly.

Rarity gasped. "She does! She absolutely does!"

"Don't be ridiculous. I don't even know him. He just--"

"He can help you with your stiff wings!" Somnia blurted out. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie fell over laughing while Applejack and Rarity suppressed their own laughs, a stunned Fluttershy stared at the filly.

"SOMNIA! NOT IN-FRONT OF EVERYPONY!"

You're getting grounded again.

Worth it!

Author's Note

I hadn't expected that opening 2000+ words, it just sorta happened and I thought it was amusing.

In case you were wondering, I take the early maturation of ponies interpretation, meaning that despite being far too young by human standards, by pony standards she is only a bit young. It fits with the timeline too. Season 1 CMC I considered to be around 6~7, with Season 9 CMC being about 14~15, just before their growth spurt.

For specifics: Talking and walking by 1.5, school and sexual capability by 6 (in the case of high-magic unicorns, seaponies, or alicorns, a bit later on sexual capacity for the others), sexual urges by 8~10, growth 14+, fully grown by 17~18. Changelings and kirin have different age thresholds, being shorter and longer respectively.

General maturity by the time they start school is higher than with human children. Let's be honest, humans don't start getting that apex intelligence until their teenage years (or their twenties in most cases).

Chapter 6: Unbreaking

Somnia Temporus, you must get up and warn Twilight Sparkle!

The princesses have been captured, and my power is waning. Isirilas is doing their best to hold back the forest but something powerful is acting against them!

The Elements of Harmony must be returned to me! Hurry!

Shooting up in her bed, every part of her ached, but she didn't have time for that. Quite literally falling off her bed, she crawled her way over to her mother's bed. "MOM! GET UP!"

"Huh? What?" Twilight got up, stretching. "What time is it?" Her eyes found the filly on the floor. "Somnia? What are you doing down there?"

"No time!" She shakily got to her hooves. "The princesses have been foalnapped!"

"What?!" Twilight threw the sheets off of her. "When? How?"

"I don't know! I had a dream about it! And Isirilas is having trouble containing the Everfree Forest! Something told me that the elements need to be returned to it, but I don't know anything else!" She got up onto the bed, turning to her mother hoping she would have a plan.

"What are you two yelling about?" Spike moaned from his own bed. "Better not be another nightmare."

"Spike! We need to get down to the throne room!" Twilight got up from her bed to quickly brush her mane before addressing the castle. "Somnia, was that everything?"

"Yeah, that's all I was told." She grabbed her saddlebags. "Are we heading back to Ponyville?"

"Probably. If the Everfree Forest and the elements are involved, we should get my friends together." She took one last look into the mirror before trotting out. "Spike! Get up!"

"What time is it?" He asked groggily. Taking a quick look at the clock, Twilight could see it was just before sunrise. But why was it so bright outside?

Going to the window, she saw both sun and moon. Picking up Spike and putting him on her back, the three left for the throne room. Halfway to their destination, Captain Shattershield approached them.

"Princess Twilight! We haven't been able to find Princess Celestia anywhere!"

"I know. They've been foalnapped. I'm headed to Ponyville to sort this whole mess out."

"Princess, there are going to be a lot of anxious ponies arriving in the next couple of hours. Equestria needs somepony to reassure them that everything is fine. I'm afraid with the recent threats made over the past week, the guard's word will only go so far."

Twilight considered it for a moment. If she left to rescue the princesses, the nobility would certainly panic, causing who-knows-what to happen. However, she needed to assemble the other elements to mount a rescue mission. Somnia couldn't deal with them, she was still an unknown to most ponies.

But she did want to learn how to rule...

"Captain, I will be entrusting you with the safety of Princess Somnia." The captain nodded understanding what she was asking. Turning to Somnia, Twilight asked the question: "Can you hold court for the day? I'll be back with the princesses later tonight, I promise."

"But I don't know how to do that! I was barely listening to Celestia!" She admitted.

"There isn't much of an option." Twilight smiled to her. "I have to save the princesses. If I don't return--"

"You promised!"

"IF I don't, at least one princess will be around to take control of the nation. Do your best, I'm confident you can do it. I love you!" She kissed the filly on the forehead, rushing off with a waking up Spike on her back.

Somnia stood silently watching her mother go around the corner. Alone again...

"Princess, we should make our way to the throne room." Shattershield motioned with a hoof down the hall.

"Y-Yeah. I got this, right?"

"The nobles have assembled, your majesty." Raven called out as she got back into position next to the throne. "Most of the Noble's Council is waiting outside. I would recommend simply assuaging their concerns. They need to know that we have the situation under control."

"R-Right. Under control." Somnia nervously chuckled, not entirely confident that she could manage a mob of anxious nobles.

"Don't worry, you have us to help you." Shattershield whispered next to her.

"Um, send them in!" Somnia called out. The guards at the large double doors at the other end of the hall opened them up, letting in the group of confused nobles. Her heart sank as she saw them, there must have been at least a hundred.

"Captain? What is going on?" A white unicorn with blue hair and a fancy looking suit approached the throne. "Where are the princesses?"

Somnia cleared her throat. "The princesses are no--"

"And who is this filly?" He pointed a hoof to Somnia.

The captain stepped forward. "Lord Fancy Pants, other members of the Noble's Council, I would like to introduce you to Princess Somnia Temporus, daughter of Princess Twilight Sparkle. She is filling in for the princesses while they are away."

"And where are the princesses? It isn't like them to take a leave of absence without at least leaving a note as to where." Lord Fancy Pants raised a suspicious brow.

"The princesses aren't here. My mom is looking for them." Somnia spoke up, although probably only half the nobles heard what she said.

"They are missing? Captain, how in Celestia's golden sun did they go missing?" Fancy Pants stepped forward, the two guards at the base of the throne crossing their spears to prevent him from getting any closer.

"We are launching an investigation, however I don't believe it will be finished until after the princesses' return." He simply stated.

"Everypony! Celestia, Luna, and my mom will be back later today!" Somnia called out to the hall. "I'm here in case there is any urgent business that needs to be handled!"

A few grumbles came from the nobles, a mixture of annoyance and confusion. Fancy Pants looked between Raven and Shattershield trying to understand what exactly was going on.

"Ms.Inkwell, do you know where Princess Celestia was last seen?"

"I'm afraid not. Nopony saw what happened." She responded. "Princess Luna was last seen on her balcony but there was no trace of where she could have gone."

The doors burst open to the throne room, a white stallion with golden hair trotted forward through the crowd. Once at the front of the crowd, he turned to Fancy Pants: "What is the meaning of this? Where is Auntie Celestia?"

"We were just discussing that." Fancy Pants said. "It appears the princesses have gone missing."

"I wasn't told they were going on a trip!" His frown turned to a smug grin. "I guess that means I am in charge until their return."

"Sorry, Prince Blueblood, but Princess Twilight assigned Princess Somnia as the regent." Shattershield stated, donning his own smug grin.

"There is no 'Princess Somnia', I would have heard about one if there was!" He stepped up to the guards. "Move out of the way. And remove that foal from the throne!"

Shattershield just straightened himself out, staring down at the white unicorn. Savoring the moment. "No."

"No?! You follo--"

"I follow the orders of Equestria's princesses. Since there is a princess on the throne, I follow her orders." The captain relished the refusal, casting a glance to Somnia.

"Captain, when was she made a Princess of Equestria? The last coronation was for Princess Twilight, and I haven't heard of Princess Somnia before." Fancy Pants curiously looked between the filly and captain.

"A week ago." He smoothly answered.

"A week?!" Fancy Pants exclaimed. "You can't be serious? Why wasn't the Noble's Council informed?"

"I do not know the princess' reasons, merely the reality." The captain shrugged. "If you wish to file a complaint, you are free to do so and it will be reviewed upon the return of the regal sisters."

"This is ridiculous! She's not a princess! My auntie would have told me!" Blueblood obstinately rebutted. "Captain, apprehend her or I will be left with no choice but to consider this a treasonous coup!"

"Prince Blueblood, are you sure its--" Fancy Pants tried talking sense into the prince.

"Of course I do! I am the regent when they are away!"

"Prince, I would reconsider." Shattershield raised a brow. "Declaring one of the princesses illegitimate is most unbecoming of somepony of your status."

"Guards! Step aside!" He commanded, the two guards at the base glancing between each other uncertain. Briefly igniting their horns, Shattershield and Blueblood sent out signals to unknown recipients.

"You are the daughter of Princess Twilight?" Fancy Pants tried stalling. "I didn't know she had a daughter, let alone one that was an alicorn."

"Yup! My mom didn't know either until a bit over a week ago." Somnia cheerfully replied, finally feeling a bit better about finding somepony friendly.

"How is that?" He asked.

"Doesn't matter! She will be dealt with as soon as the Solar Guard arrives." Blueblood proudly declared. "And captain, you will be put on trial for treason against the crown!"

"What in Luna's blue moon is going on in here?!" Captain Broken Dawn flew into the room. "Shattershield, why did you call me? Isn't there more important things to do than call me whenever you need your diaper changed?"

The nobles whispered among themselves at the crass language. Shattershield stood tall. "Captain, do you know who this filly is?" He gestured to Somnia.

"Yeah, that's Princess Somnia. Is that what this is about?" He looked around at the nobles. "Seriously?"

"Captain, you know who she is?" Fancy Pants turned up to the captain hovering about the crowd.

"Of course I do! All the local captains were introduced to her two days ago!" He flew down next to the throne. "I can confirm that she is indeed a Princess of Equestria."

The door burst open, several armored guards bearing the solar emblem entering headed by an all too familiar captain. Pushing their way through the crowd, they reached the front where the captain looked between the gathered ponies.

"Stampede, glad you could join us." Shattershield smugly grinned. "Would you kindly explain to the prince the memorandum we received yesterday morning?"

Captain Stampede grumbled to Blueblood: "What are you doing? You said there was a coup happening right now?"

"There is! She can't possibly be a princess!"

"She is, and you should know that already." He growled back.

"I was never informed, meaning that whatever declaration must have been a fabrication!"

"Quit wasting my time." The captain turned to his troops. "Another false alarm! Back to the barracks!" He commanded, leading his troops back out of the room much to Blueblood's shock.

"I failed to mention that the captains received the notice yesterday morning, officially declaring Princess Somnia as a Princess of Equestria." Shattershield added. "Oops."

"I'm going back to bed." Captain Broken Dawn flew up. "Don't call me again unless it is serious."

"No problem, Dawn." Shattershield chuckled as their companion left the room.

Somnia sat up again. "Now that you know who I am, I would like to say again that the princesses will be back later tonight. If anypony asks, tell them there was a small issue with Luna's horn."

Raven groaned and at least one guard laughed out loud, Shattershield himself barely contained a laugh by biting his lip.

"That isn't very helpful." Fancy Pants frowned, clearly unamused by the lack of tact.

"It's an excuse?" The filly shrugged. "Better than 'they were foalnapped'."

"I'll... talk to the press. Tell them there has been a logistics problem with lowering the moon." Fancy Pants trotted away, the rest of the nobles following behind, some still having no clue what was going on. Blueblood remained at the base of the throne, glaring at the filly.

"Blueblood--"

"It's Prince Blueblood to you, captain!"

"Prince Blueblood, there is nothing more to be done. The princesses will be back later if you want to bitch to them." Somnia hopped down from the throne and followed the captain. "Have fun staring at an empty throne."

"You'll regret this!" He called out after the guard as they went through the back exit. Once out of earshot, Somnia burst into laughter.

"That- That was awesome!" She leaned on Shattershield for support. "T-The look on his face!"

"It's good to see ol' Blueballs get a taste of his own medicine." The captain chuckled. "Come on, I got something to show you."

Taking Somnia out to the guard compound, he led her into a room with rows of desks facing a blackboard. Somnia took a seat in the front row, excitedly waiting.

"Princess Twilight spoke to me last night before I turned in. You wanted to learn about the Equestrian military, eh?" The filly nodded. "While you can't go through regular training, I can at least teach you about the Royal Guard. If you want to learn more, a few of the instructors would be willing to teach you more about the different branches of the E.U.P." He started sketching on the board. "Need any papers to take notes?"

"Nope!" She watched intensely as he drew an organizational chart.

"Alright, I guess we should start with the chain of command..."

"It's good to be home." Luna stretched, falling a bit behind her sister and Twilight who continued to walk forward.

"I couldn't agree more." Celestia added with a sigh. "I just wish the Elements of Harmony didn't need to be sacrificed. Losing our primary defense against the forces of darkness will encourage others to challenge us."

"I'm sure it will be fine as long as nopony knows." Twilight mused. "After-all, I didn't even know about the Tree of Harmony until today. I doubt other ponies will find out what happened."

"I hope you're right, for all our sake." Celestia opened the door to the throne room with her magic. Sat atop the throne was Prince Blueblood, dozing off. Approaching the sleepy prince, the regal sisters snickered at the sight, Twilight barely holding back her own response.

"Aunties!" He tiredly called down to them. "It's good to see you back! How was your trip?"

"Lovely." Luna held her tongue. "I must say, you look positively regal, nephew."

"Thank you, Aunt Luna." He slowly got up from the throne. "I kept it occupied in case that pretender showed up again."

"I'm sure she already did." Twilight giggled.

"Yeah." He yawned, "I'm going to bed." The prince marched past them proudly. Celestia shook her head as she watched the rainbow maned prince with a girly pink bow tied to his tail march straight from the room.

"She's going to be the death of the kingdom." Luna laughed. "At this rate, she'll side with Discord against us just to make the world a little sillier!"

"I'm sure she would." Twilight walked over to the throne, where Somnia had been sleeping right behind Blueblood. "Hopefully it is the good kind of silly."

"Looks like she has had a busy day." Celestia commented, leaning down next to the filly. "Somnia?"

She's asleep.

"Was, asleep." She groaned out. "Buck you, Grar."

"Hey! Language!" Twilight picked her up in her magic. "Let's get you to bed. I'm sure you're going to get a good night's sleep."

"Unlike me." Luna sighed, taking her place on the throne. "Goodnight you three. See you in the morning!"

"You should get some rest, Lulu. It's been a long day for..." Twilight turned the corner, walking back towards her room. Spike decided to head directly to bed, but at least the Summer Sun Celebration was delayed by a day so that he wouldn't miss it. Entering into the room and tucking Somnia into bed, she went over to her desk to take one last look over the checklist.

A small knock at the window grabbed her attention. Just outside the window, the crow hovered staring at her with its single, massive eye. Getting up from her chair, she went over to the window and whispered: "Hello?"

It blinked its massive eye, flying closer to where the window would open, clearly wanting to be let in. Opening the window just enough so that it could fly in, the crow landed next to Somnia in bed. Twilight walked over, watching with an unnatural fascination as the crow used its wing to brush the filly's hair. After a minute of observation, it turned to Twilight.

Within a single blink, the crow was gone. Was it ever there? The window was still open slightly, and Somnia's hair had been patted into something less chaotic, so it couldn't have been a hallucination. A single black feather was also left lodged in Somnia's mane. Carefully picking the feather out, she noticed it wasn't just a feather, but a quill with a golden tip.

A small engravings on the quill and the magical glow suggested it was enchanted. Twilight tried bending it, but it wouldn't break. It was magically reinforced to be stronger than Trotanium, essentially unbreakable for anything it would be used for. Then Twilight remembered, when Somnia found her in the market, she was buying more quills because they kept breaking. The questions she had about the crow still didn't have any clear answers, but whoever it was, they clearly cared about both of them.

"Thank you." Twilight whispered to her mysterious watcher, receiving only the cold silence of the nightly winds in response.

This is nice. Twilight thought as she took in the warmth of her bed. The sheets were as soft as clouds, the mattress itself was clouds, but her upper chest felt a bit itchy. Trying to move her foreleg, she realized something, or somepony, was laying on it. Opening her eyes, she spotted the dark purple mess that was her daughter's mane.

Lightly petting it with her other hoof, she finally heard the sobs. Adjusting a bit in bed, she nudged Somnia to see if she was awake. The filly sniffled before looking up at Twilight. "H-Heyy."

"What's wrong?" Twilight asked, freeing her hoof from under the filly to bring her into a hug.

"I-I... I just had a nightmare." She wiped the tears from her eyes. "Y-You were killed by s-somepony."

"It's okay, I'm not going anywhere. I'm here for you." Twilight brought her up closer to her head. "Your dreams aren't always true, right?"

"N-No. I-I can change the future i-if I can catch it." She snuggled under Twilight's neck.

"You've had nightmares like that before, what's so bad about this one?"

She buried her face into Twilight's fur, taking a moment to collect herself. "Y-You spent so little time with me back w-when I grew up. I-I don't want you to go."

"I'm here, and I'll be here for a long time." She nuzzled the filly. "I promise, I'll be with you so long that you'll get sick of me. Sound good?"

The filly giggled. "Y-Yeah. Sounds good."

"Then let's go get breakfast. I'm starving!"

"Finally!" Spike put down the magazine he was reading at the desk. "She's been crying for the past hour!"

"Not like you were any help!" Somnia spat back at him.

"Do you want me to get a boner?" He deadpanned, getting a shake of the head from both the occupants of the bed. "Thought as much. Now let's go!" He hopped from the chair followed by Twilight and Somnia.

Breakfast was fairly uneventful, mostly Princess Celestia talking about the mountain of complaints filed by the nobles in attendance at court the previous day and Princess Luna briefly showed up to stack her plate with food before heading to her room, receiving the disapproving stare of her sister behind her back.

It would still be half a day before her friends arrived in Canterlot for the Summer Sun Celebration party, and there wasn't much left to do in preparation before she returned to bed. Perhaps this lull is a blessing in disguise...

"No, looks boring." Somnia took another look around. "Can't we go somewhere quick? I would like to try a hayburger."

"Are you sure? The cost isn't a conce--"

"I vote hayburgers." Spike raised his claw. "Anything to get out of this rain."

Twilight sighed, feeling like she was a mother being dragged along by two grumpy foals. She wasn't too far off, considering Spike was technically a baby dragon. Moving away from Restaurant Row, they walked for a couple of minutes until they spotted a McDonehay's. Closing her umbrella as they entered, Twilight could see a few other ponies chatting over coffee at the tables, whispering among themselves.

"Hello?" Twilight approached the tired employee behind the counter that was too engrossed in the newspaper to bother looking up at her. "I would like to order four--"

"Five!"

"Five hayburgers and two large fries." She turned back to the two impatient children. "What do you two want to drink?"

"Soda." Spike answered simply while the filly looked at the menu above.

"Ooo! Can I change my order?" Somnia asked excited.

"I don't see why not."

"I want the chicken bites!" The attendant finally cast a glance away from their newspaper to the ordering ponies.

"Sweet Cele--"

"Somnia! I told you that you can't have griffon food!" Twilight glared down at her.

"Why not? It tastes so gooooood." Her smile drifted as she reminisced the last time she had meat. The succulent steak cooked rare, dripping its scrumptious red fluids. It made her mouth water just thinking of it.

Twilight turned back to the attendant who finally was paying attention, a nervous smile on their face. "Five hayburgers, two large fries, one soda, and two juices."

"O-Of course, princess!" She scurried off in the back. Twilight waved a hoof in front of Somnia's face to bring her back to reality.

"You're going to put on weight if you keep eating like you are."

Somnia stood defiantly. "I'm an alicorn! We have fast metabolisms! And I'm a growing pony!"

"I don't know, Twi. Have you seen yourself at The Hay Burger?" Spike stood alongside Somnia, hoofbumping with her.

Twilight playfully eyed each of them. "You win this round." The attendant came back out with a tray in her mouth. While Twilight paid for their meal, Spike and Somnia took the tray over to an empty table. Joining up with them, she took note of the looks the other patrons were giving her. Curiosity, annoyance, disgust.

Floating her own burger over to her mouth, she could still feel the uncomfortable gazes from afar. She didn't know how or when Somnia had meat, she couldn't have stopped it. Yet that didn't matter to the other ponies, only that she failed to prevent her own daughter from turning into a meat-eater.

"Hey, Twi? You okay?" Spike asked taking an entire pack of fries.

"Huh? Oh, I'm alright." She took a bite of her burger, letting its flavors mingle on her tongue while she tried to block out the other patrons from her mind.

Spike glared to one of the other tables, getting the patrons to turn back to their own business. "Right."

The three ate in an awkward silence for another minute. Somnia was about to start on her second burger when Twilight whispered: "What's meat like?"

"Describe the color green." She responded with a coy smile. "You can't. You have to experience it."

"Didn't you get a stomach ache, or sick?"

"Nope!" Somnia took a big bite of her burger. "Spoke can eat meat." She mumbled out, mouth partially full.

"He's a dragon, he can eat gemstones." Twilight rolled her eyes over to Spike. "I've never considered giving you something like that before."

"I'd rather eat what you eat. Unless its gemstones, I'll take those." Spike took a clawfull of hayfries, stuffing them into his mouth.

"Yeah, 'cause you're probably going to be the one to make it. But you are free to order it if we go out anywhere. You're not a pony, you can eat it if you want to." Twilight played a bit with his top spikes. "I won't mind."

"But I--"

"No, Somnia! None for you." Twilight preempted, hoping to deter this habit of hers.

"Not even fish?"

"Not even fish." She smiled sweetly to her daughter.

Finishing their lunch, they headed back towards the castle. The rain scheduled was short, given the planned celebration the next morning, just enough to water the plants around Canterlot until the next large rainfall. The plants looked beautiful having the droplets of water shimmer in the summer sun. Ponies were heading out to begin their day, many of which waved to Twilight as they trotted by.

Being a Princess of Equestria gave her a bit more stress around strangers, but something new caused her concern. She was concerned for her daughter in the same way she was when Spike was younger. Are other ponies a potential threat? Should they stay closer to her? Should she let them have their independence?

Shaking the thoughts from her mind, a royal guard approached them from the opposite direction. They didn't seem particularly happy to see them, more so just eyeing them from their side of the street. This brought another layer of anxiety for the princess. Does she need to worry about the royal guard? Can even ponies hoof-picked by Celestia be trusted? Would a pony attack them or try to foalnap them? So many questions, not many answers.

"I know that look. Don't worry, Twilight." Spike reassured her.

"I know, Spike. I'm still getting used to all the attention. It's new for all these ponies to recognize who I am." She spotted a couple excitedly whispering to each other at the side of the street as they passed by, the occasional glance from them over to her.

"If you want, Rarity would prob- UGPH!" Spike burped out a letter, one which Twilight took into her magical grasp to read. It had an official royal seal, meaning it must have come from Princess Celestia. Reading it over, she sighed. More work for the Summer Sun Celebration.

So much for the day of fun.

"Plllleeeeeeaaaasssseeee?" The filly pleaded, hoping to prevent another boring day in the court. Her mother wanted to put her with Celestia while she did her duties, but she wanted to do anything but more of that.

"Princess, is there anything else she could do?" Twilight turned to Celestia. "Some other royal duty she could learn?"

Celestia put a hoof to her chin in thought. "Not that I know of. However, if she would like to go to the barracks to learn more about the Royal Guard and E.U.P. then I would allow it."

"Yes!" Somnia hopped off triumphantly. "Thanks, mom! Thanks, Celestia! I'll be back around dinner!" She called back as she galloped from the room.

"I don't mean to question your decisions, but are you sure it is fine for her to be spending so much time not learning about royal duties? We're only going to be in Canterlot on occasion, so it really would be best if she spent time with you in order to learn." Twilight questioned her mentor.

"I'm certain." Celestia smiled down to her. "Luna and I have discussed this extensively. Letting her follow her own path on occasion will make her more receptive to our lessons." Getting up from her throne, she walked down to Twilight. "And she is learning royal duties. I've instructed Captain Shattershield to teach her regal procedures. Trust me, we've planned ahead for this."

Twilight nodded. "Thank you, princess. Teaching her has been difficult, I haven't had much success with my other lessons." The princesses exited the throne room, headed for the delegate meeting room that was repurposed for the celebration's organization. "She's worse than Spike when he was young."

"I resemble that remark." Her dragon companion commented from behind.

"Sorry, Spike. But you were so well behaved growing up, at least when you weren't hungry." She turned back to Celestia. "It just feels like I'm making no progress with her."

"On occasion I've adopted ponies. You are planting the seeds to grow, even if you do not see them sprouting, they will grow. You need to have faith in yourself." Celestia opened the door to the organization room, a few ponies were gathered around the table waiting for them.

"Luna and I both have faith in you. Trust in your abilities. In due time, your hard work will pay off."

"You're late, maggot!" The sergeant chastised the filly. "Get marching! I want to see you in formation and marching like a royal guard yesterday! Move it!" The filly rushed off for the rest of the recruits while the sergeant and captain watched from the middle of the compound. "I mean no disrespect, sir, but weren't we ordered to not train her?"

"We're not." He smiled to the sergeant. "She's learning discipline. We're not making her run laps, we're only teaching her how to march."

"That... doesn't make much sense." She raised her brow. "Teaching her is still training her." Turning back to the recruits: "Heartache! Somnia! Straighten yourselves up! Shaft, get your rhythm back in order!"

"In a way. Princess Celestia gave the okay for me to teach her. This helps her focus on the in-class lessons."

"She's not becoming on officer, is she?" The sergeant winced. "'Cause yikes, she would only be accepted with the Lunar Guard at this rate."

The captain chuckled. "No, she's a princess. I'm trying to teach her about delegating responsibilities to her subordinates. This will help. Seeing you taking my orders, carrying them out without question. Her taking your orders, carrying them out. Hopefully it will get through to her."

"Hopefully." The sergeant trotted to intercept the group. "Straighten up, maggots! This isn't a Sunday stroll through the park!"

Shattershield returned to his office, leaving the sergeant to do her work. He had a meeting with a changeling.

"Wake up, Somnia. We need to get to the train station." Twilight nuzzled her. "I know you're tired, but I want to be there when my friends arrive."

"Ugh..." She slowly got up. "What time is it?"

"Almost sunset. Let's go!" She picked up the filly in her magical grasp, carrying her out to their waiting carriage. The filly used the ride over to wake up from her nap, inadvertently falling asleep again. By the time Somnia awoke again, the carriage came to stop in front of the train station.

The three of them waited on the platform for a few minutes before the train arrived. Steam rolled over the platform as the train pulled in, flattening Somnia's coat against her body. The doors opened and the five familiar mares trotted from inside, greeting their friend before returning to the carriage.

Somnia looked out the carriage window at the streets. They were more lively than they had been the past two nights, at least from what she had seen, with ponies chatting away or walking to whatever party they planned to go to. For Somnia, she had a different set of plans. There weren't going to be many fillies or colts around to talk with, so she made alternative arrangements.

Pulling into the castle, she waved her tail at the sight of her entourage for the night. She was first to the door, excitedly waiting for the carriage to come to a halt.

"My, you seem to be excited for your first Summer Sun Celebration party." Rarity commented.

Pinkie Pie leaned close. "Who are you hanging out with tonight? Got a special somepony in mind?"

"She's too young for that, Pinkie." Fluttershy countered, turning to Twilight worried. "Isn't she?"

"I hope she isn't going to be getting into that sort of trouble." Twilight giggled. "She's hanging out with the Lunar Guards on patrol. Not many others her age to hang out with at the party after-all."

"Good thing too. Won't be drinking the punch, more for me." Rainbow leaned back in her seat grinning.

"Woah there, pony-girl. Don't wanna miss the mornin' sunrise, do ya?" Rainbow got a jab from Applejack.

"Like I would miss it!" The carriage came to a halt, briefly tumbling the standing filly over. Quickly getting back up, she unlocked the door and hopped out, the others following behind.

Waiting patiently was Captain Broken Dawn and a few other Lunar Guards chatting idly behind him. Twilight approached the captain, hoping to have a word before their patrol while her friends went to get setup with their rooms.

"Princess Twilight." He bowed to her. "You wished to speak with me before I began my rounds?"

"You are correct." She playfully glared down to the filly saddled up into the captain's side. "A certain filly didn't want to hang out at the party. I was hoping you could keep an eye on her while you patrolled tonight."

"We weren't planning to have guests." He nudged the filly from him a bit. "But it couldn't hurt."

"Thank you, captain. Make sure she's back in her room an hour before sunrise." Twilight sighed, looking to her daughter. "And please try to not get in trouble tonight."

"I promise!"

"Thank you. Both of you." Twilight walked back towards the castle entrance while the captain turned to his troops.

"Alright, guards! Form up!" They all assembled into two lines, Somnia rushing over to join them. "Tonight our duties are to keep an eye out for trespassers as usual, but we are also to be watching for excessively inebriated ponies. Take them back to their rooms if they are falling down or causing a scene. Most of you were on duty the previous celebration in Canterlot, so I have no doubt that everything will go smoothly.

"I've already given you your pairings and routes. Princess Somnia, you will be with me and Corporal Pilot Light in the Castle Gardens. Dismissed!" The corporal and princess formed up with the captain as they made their way over to the gardens. Other than practicing her marching, Somnia anticipated having time to chat with the captain. There was so much she wanted to ask him about the thestrals in modern Equestria.

The corporal broke off into a different area of the garden, leaving the two alone to patrol the northern section. Once they had gotten far enough away, Somnia took her shot: "I haven't seen many batponies so far. I've only seem your kind serving in the guard."

"Yeah, makes sense. We prefer to move around at night." The captain's eyes kept passively scanning the gardens while they walked. "And other ponies tend not to like seeing us. Bad reputation, ya know?"

"Bad reputation? But batponies are one of the eight kinds!"

"I don't know about eight, but certainly not among the three tribes that formed Equestria." He stopped at an intersection, looking down each of the paths carefully listening. "Just have to live with it best we can."

They continued straight. "Why do the other ponies not like to see you though?"

"Me? Nah, ponies respect the guard. They don't like seeing us in general."

"But why?"

"The Lunar Civil War, not being there for the founding of Equestria, rumors of criminality, meat-eating, you name it. They look down on us for one reason for another." His voice carried a tinge of sadness, one that Somnia couldn't help but feel angry at.

"That's not fair! You are ponies like the rest of us!"

The captain chuckled halfheartedly. "Glad you see it that way, princess."

"Don't the other princesses treat you fairly?" Somnia rushed to in-front of him, bringing them to a halt.

"Princess Luna does." He sighed. "The others either don't care, or see us the same way as everypony else. Bloodsuckers, foalnappers, meat-eaters, undesirables essentially."

He walked around the filly who followed behind in thought. Her mom really didn't seem to like ponies eating meat. Is that why? Did she hate thestrals? Was history repeating itself? Did that mean other things would repeat along with it?

"Nothing can be done about it though. We don't interact with other ponies enough to change their minds and the nobles here in Canterlot like to keep it that way."

"Why doesn't Luna do something?"

"She does, but she doesn't succeed." He stopped at the next intersection. "Look, I don't want to disappoint you, but things aren't going to change. Not enough thestrals care enough to do anything about it. There simply isn't the political power to do so."

The filly stood defiantly. "I'll do something about it! All ponies should be treated with respect!"

The captain smiled, shaking his head. "You do you, filly. Maybe one day you can do something if you really do care that much. I'm not going to hold out hope anything will change in my lifetime."

"No!" She stamped on the ground. "It's my duty as a member of the royal family to serve all ponies! I won't let it go! My dad wouldn't let go!"

"And just who's your dad?" He asked curiously. "I only heard about you through rumors before Shatterbrains brought you along in-pony. Your dad? Completely unheard of."

"He was the Duke of the Thestrals back in Excalicorn! He wouldn't let you to be mistreated by the other ponies!"

The captain rolled his eyes. "Whatever, kid. Let's get back to our patrol."

The two moved along in silence for another hour, the winds tonight being warmer than Somnia expected. Corporeal Pilot Light came by once to tell the captain about a possible rowdy noble in the main hall before heading back to patrol. Moving their way over to the hall, Somnia looked for her mom, seeing her gathered at a table with her friends laughing away freely. A particular table had two nobles yelling at each other, likely being the cause of concern.

"Why don't you get something to eat while I deal with this?" The captain motioned towards the banquet tables, receiving a nod from the filly. She wished she could float things with her horn as she looked up at the table. Taking bits from the different foods on offer, she grazed over the tables. The extra heat made her a bit thirsty, so she went for the punch.

It was too high up to pour for herself, looking under the table she grabbed a box of spare cups to stand on while she poured. The attendee next to her looked like she wanted to say something, but kept silent as Somnia poured herself a cup of punch. She pushed the box back under the table and took her drink, meeting up with the captain at the door.

They set out into the gardens once more. The filly finally took a sip of her drink, slightly recoiling at the taste. It felt like it was burning the back of her mouth. Hey, Grar, is this safe to drink?

Of course. They wouldn't try poisoning everypony who went for the punch. I would recommend you take your time with it though.

And so she did. They patrolled for another hour or two, her vision slowly getting less and less clear as they went. She even went back for seconds when there was a loud crash from the gala hall. Something about a table being flipped? She wasn't really paying attention. All she knew was that the punch was really good.

She even took a third cup on their way back into the garden. Extending her wings and lifting her tail in the warm summer night wind, she enjoyed the feel of it run over her. Her body craved attention, but she was still a bit nervous about approaching the captain. Meanwhile, the captain was getting more and more antsy as they patrolled.

Hiccuping, she finally asked the question racing in her mind. "Capt'n, do you have a maaarefriend?"

"Uhh..." He looked down at her. "Are you alright, princess?"

"An-sir my question? Hat's a order!"

"No, I don't." He knelt down to get down to her eye level. "Are you drunk?"

"Naaah." She approached, swaying her hips like she had seen in some of her dreams. "Your pretty good lookin' for a stallion."

His breathing became less regular. "Princess, I-I think we should--"

"Shhhh..." She put a hoof to his lips. "Bet yer better than Spike. Wanna be my sompony fer tonight?"

He pulled back a bit. "P-Princess! I-I'm sworn to--" The captain recoiled at the feeling of lips on his own as the filly lunged forward to kiss him. He could smell the alcohol on her, removing any ambiguity about it. Pulling her back, he picked her up and put the fussy filly on his back. He shook his head to remove the thoughts from his mind. Right now, he had a job to do.

Entering back into the party, he made his way straight for the table with the purple and white mares idly chatting. "Cooommmmeee ooonnnnn..." The filly whined loudly. "I wanna buck a reeeeeeaaaaal stallion!"

Princess Twilight scrambled from her seat over to the captain, teleporting all three of them back to her room. She took the filly from the captain's back and straight into the shower while the captain opened the door, commanding the guard in the hallway to bring water and food up to the room. He walked back over to the bathroom, seeing the mother trying and failing to hold onto the filly in the shower.

"You can join too~" The filly rubbed all along her body, getting a frustrated growl out of her mother.

"Somnia! Stay still!"

"Need help?" Dawn asked from the doorway.

An embarrassed Twilight looked back. "If it wouldn't be too much of a problem?"

"Get her in your lap, I'll soak her." He commanded.

"Why my lap?"

"Because I know exactly what she would do in mine." He chuckled, getting a blush from the princess.

"Hehe... You know it~" Twilight groaned at the filly's flirtation, wrapping her legs around the filly to hold her in place as the captain took the shower-head to soak the filly and princess in cold water.

"Heyy!" Somnia whined. "That's cold! I wanna be hot!" She giggled, bursting into a laugh. "I am hot, ain't I?"

Both adults kept their mouths shut while they tried to get her under control. Once she had shriveled up enough in the cold water, they took her back out into the main area, wrapping her in the blanket to keep her from moving. The guard came back with the water and food, which Twilight fed to Somnia before Dawn left them be.

He shook his head once out of sight of anypony else, thoughts still racing about that kiss. He hoped the guard would rarely ever interact with fillies, a convenient occupation to avoid dealing with those feelings. Hopefully nopony saw the kiss happen, otherwise he would never live it down.

Slowly opening her eyes, she immediately closed them at the first light. Her brain pounded against the walls of her skull, the rest of her body weak and her stomach queasy. She moaned as she tried a second time, pushing through the pain.

"Welcome back." A soothing motherly voice whispered from next to her. "I saved you some breakfast."

"I don't feel like it." She put her head under her pillow, pushing it to her aching head to hopefully relieve some pain.

"You did this to yourself, now you have to face it." Twilight pulled to pillow from Somnia's head. "Eat. You'll start feeling better."

Reluctantly sitting up, Somnia opened her eyes to see the dim glow coming from the mostly closed curtains in the room. But it wasn't the castle room, it was much smaller. Twilight hoofed over the tray she kept, taking off the towel to reveal a salad. Somnia ate straight from the bowl without bothering with the utensils.

"The captain told me what happened last night." Twilight got up, opening the curtains a bit more.

"Did- E-Everything?" The filly nervously asked between bites of her salad.

Twilight sighed, moving back over to her. "You haven't been taking the pills, have you?"

The filly shook her head, going back to finish her meal.

Last night was fun, we should do it again sometime.

Buck you, Grar. You knew that was going to happen didn't you?

Absolutely, and it was glorious!

Chapter 7: Knowledge is Power

Fluttershy? What are you doing here?

She's with me... Thank you.

Have you all spent the whole night running around, scaring each other?

Well, that depends.

On what?

Choices. It always come down the smallest of details. A million small bits of information processed through the mind every second in order to deduce the best possible outcome. It can be life or death, the difference between glory and obscurity. A future or the past.

It all comes down to this.

Would you just pick a flavor already? Flip a bit! Do something! We've been standing here the past five minutes.

"I can't decide." Somnia looked between the different flavors on offer. Chocolate? Nah, not in the mood. Blueberry swirl? Too much like the forest. Cinnamon sprinkle? What even is that?

"Seriously?" The pony at the front desk was getting impatient with standing around while the filly deliberated on the different flavors. "May I suggest the 'berry explosion'?"

"Does it have blueberries in it?" She squinted.

The attendant sighed, going back to cleaning the counters. Too many choices.

Just pick your two favorites!

But that's boring!

Life doesn't need to be a roller-coaster of excitement. I'll pick if you can't!

No blueberries!

Diamond vanilla swirl.

"One diamond vanilla swirl!" She called out triumphantly.

"Size and extra toppings?" The attendant dreaded to ask.

"Large and sprinkles." She sweetly smiled. "Unless you have pepperoni bites."

"No, we don't." The attendant shook their head as they put together the cone. "It'll be five bits."

Somnia scrounged in her saddlebag, finding the bits she won from Rainbow Dash. Taking out five, she slung the saddlebag onto her back and grabbed the cone. "Thank you!"

"Come back soon!" They cringed at the words while the filly trotted from the store.

Next stop: Smoky Stacks Smithy. Hopefully they will be open today.

"Wanna bet?" She smirked, confusing those around her as she trotted past.

There is literally nothing I could give you that I wouldn't give you eventually anyway.

"I know, but where's the fun in that?" She thought of something she was always curious about. "What did you look like before you became Grogar?"

Only a fool would take a bet against somepony that they know already knows the answer.

"I bet they're open!"

I'm not taking the opposite position.

"HA! I knew it!" She cheerfully trotted along the streets. She would have waved to the ponies she passed by, but the cone demanded her attention. It was a pretty good day to be outside. Not too hot, not too windy, just the right balance.

Approaching the smithy, Somnia could hear the banging of metal on metal. There was something she wanted made but it required equipment to create. She had spent the entire morning copying the schematics onto a large roll of paper, and Grar had promised to show her how to assemble and clean it.

Finishing her ice cream, she entered into the open area where the blacksmith was hammering away at a metal bar. There were a variety of forged objects along the walls and on the shelves, some of which Somnia recognized. Door hinges, strips of cloth, nails, tool heads, but not what she was looking for.

"Can I help you?" Smoky asked between strokes of his hammer.

"I need something made." She kept her distance so the sparks wouldn't catch her fur.

"A filly like you? Heh, what could you possibly need from me?"

"I need a way to protect myself!" She confidently declared. "I need a few things forged to assemble what I had in mind."

Smoky picked the bar back up with tongs, putting it in the furnace, before turning to Somnia and raising a brow. "Can you even afford it?"

"Probably." She thought about it a second. She hadn't asked her mother if she could bill the royal treasury, but this would be a useful expenditure. "I'll collect the materials, I just need you to forge it."

Smoky took the bar back from the furnace and onto the anvil to pound away at it. "Confirm the payment, then we'll talk."

"Um, I also need to know what temperature your furnace has." She smiled softly.

"It can melt steel, is that high enough?"

No, needs to be higher.

"Sorry, but it needs to be higher."

He gave her an incredulous look. "It's nearly seventeen-hundred fehrcius, what kind of metal are you trying to melt?"

"It's magic!" She cheerfully answered.

"Then find somepony who specializes in magic forging. I make tools and supplies for the town, none of which needs magical reinforcement."

"Aw, okay. I'll still come back for the mechanism stuff though!" She waved goodbye as she left. It was going to be a long search, and her mother might not be so keen on what she has planned.

Better than running around with a guard looking over your shoulder.

"What even are these metals you listed?" She pulled out the schematics. "I only recognize a few names from the periodic table."

It's similar to steel, except lighter, more resistant to everything, and is outright superior in form. You get this made and you will never need to sharpen it.

Somnia shrugged as she put the schematics away, willing to trust Grar knew what he was saying. Trotting back to the library, she opened to door to see Spike sweeping the floor. He pointed her in the right direction, galloping up the stairs: "Mom!"

Twilight put down her black feather quill, turning to regard her daughter. "Somnia? What were you in such a rush about this morning?" Her eyes followed the filly as she trotted over to take out the roll of paper. "What's this?"

"Designs!" She squee'd. "Grar gave them to me!"

Twilight unrolled the paper, seeing several attempts at drawing the various components. The overall device was mechanical, not reliant on magic in any way. Taking a closer look, she noticed the use of some metals that were actually magic resistant in the mechanism.

But that wasn't what drew her attention, it was the blade. It's design was brutal, to say the least. Finely serrated along the edge with the smooth tip at the top, double-sided as well. The materials listed on the side she somewhat recognized. Magic-resistant metal mixed with other strong elements, plus another she didn't recognize.

"Somnia, what is this?" She flicked her eyes over to her daughter concerned.

"It's a knife! I want to put it on my hoof in case I get attacked so I can defend myself!" She grinned widely, eyes full of hope. "I just need to gather the materials and get it forged by somepony!"

"I don't think it will be necessary." Twilight rolled the paper back up. "We're not really in much danger."

"For now!" She countered conspiratorially. "One day, I could be ambushed by an assassin while you're in Canterlot without me. I want to be able to defend myself!"

"Somnia, we have a guard outside the library at all times, and another five patrolling town." Twilight rebutted. "Besides, this is such a cruel design that nopony except maybe the royal smiths would forge it."

Twilight, when you are attacked with your life on the line, mercy is counterproductive. It is a necessity. Kill or be killed.

"Equestria isn't like that." Twilight stared directly into Somnia's eyes. "I don't want you to be like that."

"But--"

"No. You aren't getting a weapon to have on you. That's just asking for trouble." Twilight shook her head. "It's not that I don't trust you, it's just that--"

"You don't trust me!" She stomped her hoof. "I can use it responsibly! Grar plans to teach me how to use it!"

Twilight got up from her chair to give the filly a hug which she protested against. "Somnia, you're safe. You don't need to worry about protecting yourself, especially not when around friends and family. I don't want you taking that path." She nuzzled the top of the filly's head. "Neither do you. Remember when you told me about your grandmother? Would she have made something like that?"

"Yeah..." The filly admitted, sinking into her mother's embrace.

"I'm certain that you can handle yourself if anything were to happen." She kissed the top of her daughter's head before moving back over to the desk stacked with books. "Did you need anything else?"

"Actually..." Somnia deviously smiled.

"Be there in a second!" The muffled voice behind the door called out. Somnia took the time to look around at the various critters. She couldn't tell them apart from others of their kind other than the occasional marking or differences in coloration. How does Fluttershy keep track of who's who?

A familiar wolf looked on suspiciously. They both recognized each other from their little run-in a bit over a week ago while Somnia was lost in the woods. Cautiously trotting closer to the wolf, she could see they had a slight scar on their lip from the buck she gave them.

"Hey." She laid down a three pony lengths away from the wolf, nervously smiling. "No hard feelings?"

It growled at her, clearly signifying something she didn't quite understand. A small gap on the side of their mouth gave away that at least one or two teeth had been knocked free in the encounter.

"I'm sorry, I thought you were trying to eat me." Somnia patted the grass in front of her. "I really am sorry."

The wolf howled out, startling the other animals nearby. Their vocalization was in an unusual pattern, much like they were sending a warning. And Fluttershy slamming open her door gave away who the recipient was.

"Somnia? What are you doing here?" Fluttershy trotted over to where the filly and wolf laid across from each other. "What's wrong, Sandra?"

The wolf barked to Fluttershy, giving a growl toward Somnia to communicate something.

"Somnia! Y-You hurt her?"

"I thought she was trying to eat me!" The filly threw her legs to the grass in defeat. "I said I was sorry!"

The wolf barked another two times before getting up to leave them be, the yellow pegasus giving off a sigh.

"She doesn't believe you. I'll try to talking to her later, see if she can understand your perspective." Fluttershy helped Somnia up from the grass. They both went into the cottage where Somnia sat down on the couch while Fluttershy put the kettle on. Reentering the living area, Fluttershy gently smiled to the filly.

"Did you come to apologize to Sandra? Or was there something else you wanted?"

"I, um, wanted to ask you how you knew Isirilas." The chirping from the birdhouse ceased at the mention of the name, and the pegasus straightened herself slightly. Sitting next to Somnia, Fluttershy took a deep breath.

"The animals talk about them. The whispers from the trees, predators and prey both fearing their retribution." She bit her lip. "I only met them once, but that was enough."

"What did they do?" Somnia asked, hoping to shed some light on the wild-forester's actions.

"I'll get us some tea first." Fluttershy got up to go to the kitchen, returning with a tray containing two cups and the steaming kettle. Pouring tea into both cups, Somnia could see Fluttershy's forelegs shook slightly. Sitting back down next to the filly, she took one last deep breath.

"It was not long after I moved to Ponyville. I was still introducing myself to the animals around here..."

"A-Are y-you sure?" The shy pegasus asked one of the Mr.Racoon's she had met.

Please, can you help? I can't do it alone! It chattered back.

"I-I guess I could." Fluttershy bit her lip as she looked over to the menacing forest across the field from her cottage. "Is it safe?"

Please! They grabbed onto Fluttershy's hoof, begging with their eyes.

She sighed, resigned to help in spite of her own concerns. Pinkie Pie had told her about the Everfree Forest while on that scary tour of the town, and she knew that it likely contained all sorts of dangerous creatures. But she wasn't going to let a family of raccoons starve to death.

"O-Okay." She hesitantly followed the raccoon in the forest. Every small noise made her jump, every twig crack, every creaking branch, every rustling in the bushes next to the trail. It seemed as though the trees themselves had eyes, and worst of all, they were watching her.

The raccoon looked around at an intersection, hopping from the path into the underbrush. With great reluctance, Fluttershy followed them into the deeper flora. Her hooves were caked in mud, and her entire body shook from fear and the cold wind that passed over her.

Mr.Raccoon stopped at a log that had toppled over, a small den could barely be made out in the base of the tree. The daddy raccoon crawled on-top of the log and chattered to the inside, receiving chattering back.

"I-Is this it?" Fluttershy questioned, receiving a nod from the raccoon right before a loud crash startled both of them.

"EEP!" The pegasus fell to the ground reflexively, covering her head in case whatever it was fell on her. Slowly opening her eyes, she could see Mr.Raccoon's fading eyes. Her heart stopped beating for a second as she gazed upon the bloodied jaws of what she could only assume was a 'timber wolf', Mr.Raccoon's lifeless body crushed in its grip.

She turned only to come muzzle-to-muzzle with another growling timber wolf, a few more were moving about to either side of her, encircling her so that she had no escape.

Pony of Day, why are you trespassing in my free-forest? A deep, hollow voice shook what little will she had left straight from her body, the grass rushing to meet her.

Somnia blinked as she watched Fluttershy wipe tears from her face.

"I-I didn't think I would ever wake up." She sipped her tea.

"W-What happened next?" The filly leaned closer, hoping to not miss out on any of the details.

With a shaky sigh, she continued.

Opening her eyes slowly, Fluttershy could see the glassy eyes of Mr.Raccoon staring her back. She looked down to see that she was laying on a stone, red markings passing beneath her. Sitting up, she saw the green glow of timber wolf eyes surrounding her, each with red markings on their faces.

That is when she finally looked back at her raccoon friend, or what was left of him. His chest had been torn open, organs hanging above her from the vines while his blood was used to make markings on the stone altar and the timber wolves. A massive timber wolf as tall as the trees sat staring down at her, its unreadable expression adding to her panic.

I asked you a question, pony.

"I--" Fluttershy hyperventilated at the level of cruelty surrounding her. Her hooves were numb and eyes focused on the large beast staring her down.

Well?

"I-I..." Droplets fell to the stone alter beneath her, smudging some of the still drying blood. "P-P-Pl-lease..."

Pathetic. Not even the courage to speak. The wolves around her unleashed a deafening howl, causing her to wince in pain from the volume.

"I-I d-didn't k-know..."

None do, at least until the end. The large wolf lowered its head to bring its massive green eyes within spitting distance of Fluttershy's eyes. You live in the cottage next to the forest.

It was less a question, more a statement of fact. Nodding her head frantically, Fluttershy hoped this monster could be reasoned with.

You ponies lack respect for the free-forests you once did, always entering without our approval.

The wolves growled and barked at the frightened pony, not helping to ease the terror she was undergoing.

I could kill you right where you lay. Bestow the same fate as that vile flesh fiend that brought you into my domain. The giant wolf sniffed the pegasus, taking in the fear, sweat, and blood. But another will come to replace you, as they always had.

I'll offer you forgiveness for your trespassing on certain conditions. Should you accept, I will bring you to the forest's edge. Should you refuse...

They let it hang in the air, the wood on the timber wolf's back readjusting into a different arrangement.

Leave this forest. Do not enter without my permission. Should I find you disrespecting my territory, I will have no qualms about killing you and every other fleshy termite that lives at the unnatural dwelling. I ask in return for your knowledge of ponies, creatures, and forests in Equestria.

"I told them what they wanted to know, and then they used a coughing-plant to put me back to sleep." Fluttershy finished off her cup of tea. "I woke up outside the forest, hoping to never enter it again."

"But haven't you gone into it since then?" The filly asked curiously. "Mom said that you had to go into the Everfree Forest to stop Nightmare Moon."

"Well, I did go into it a few times before then, always asking for permission and waiting for them to give me a sign." She admitted. "Usually a gust of warm wind for yes, cold for no."

"What happened to the raccoon family?"

Fluttershy gave a slight smile. "Isirilas helped them. They got out safely to tell me about the timber wolves moving the log, and to say how sorry they were about not telling me about them."

Somnia thought a bit. All of this sounded like Isirilas. In fact, it sounded exactly like nearly all of the wild-foresters given the unusual ritual he was going to use her for. "Did- Did they ever talk to you again?"

"No, not like that first ti- EEP!" Fluttershy was startled by a loud knock at the door. Hopping from the couch, Somnia went over to peak out the window to see who it was. Gleefully opening the door, Twilight and Spike stood smiling.

"Have fun with Fluttershy?" She asked, looking past the filly to the pegasus getting her breathing under control.

"Yup!" Somnia hugged her mother. "She told me about how she knew Isirilas and what they did."

"Oh? Nothing bad I hope?" Her eyes communicated concern for her friend as they got up from the couch to go over to the group.

"Twilight! Are you here for Somnia?"

"Yes, I have some plans for tonight she may be interested in." The purple princess slyly grinned to her daughter. "That is, if you're interested."

"I didn't have any plans." The filly trotted out the door. "Thanks for telling me about that, Fluttershy!"

"It's no problem." She waved them goodbye as they set off towards... the Everfree Forest?

"Whatcha got there?" The nosy filly poked her head over her mother's shoulder, using her back to support her hooves.

"Nothing that gives me any information about the chest." Twilight sighed, putting the book down. "Why don't you pick out something to read while we're here? I think we may be spending the night, so feel free to explore the castle if you get bored."

"Hmm..." The filly plopped her forehooves back onto the stones of the library, trotting over to a shelf. "Eeeny, meeny, minny..." She trotted over to another shelf, feasting her eyes on the different topics available to be browsed. "This is going to be harder than I thought."

Twilight giggled. "Spike!" She called over her assistant. "We should probably head back to the library in order to get blankets and candles."

"What about her?" He jabbed a thumb in Somnia's direction.

"She will be fine for an hour." Twilight raised her voice. "Somnia! We're headed back to the Golden Oaks Library! Want me to bring anything?"

"Lots of snacks!" She shouted back, returning to the search for a book to read.

While the two left, Somnia closed her eyes to focus. What sort of book was she interested in reading? Nearly every topic was available, a thousand-year-old treasure trove of knowledge. Opening her eyes back up, she climbed up one of the ladders scattered around the library shelves, taking a careful look at each row.

A particular book caught her eye. Taking it down with her to the study tables, she read the title out loud.

"On the Orgins of Alicorns: An Examination, by Gusty of Galdon, translated by the Royal Scribe Society of Equestria." Somnia bit her lip, curious as to how this wasn't found sooner. Galdon was an old city of the Harmonic Empire within the Chillrend Mountains. Opening to the first page, she could already identify the horn-writing style of Gusty in the original author's remarks.

A quick skim through the book told her everything. This wasn't made to inform, it was made to obfuscate. Every detail related to alicorns or the Harmonic Empire was deliberately ignored in favor of superstition and hearsay. Even so, a few sections did contain bits of truth.

Ruins of a long-lost civilization being 'found' on a distant continent, a 'cataclysmic war' that 'teared the heavens apart', the 'father of monsters' wiping out the seaponies...

Somnia?

"Y-Yeah?" She shakily replied to her friend.

Do you need--

"No!" She slammed to book shut, not wanting to read anymore. Pushing the book to the corner of the desk, she went back to the ladders to find another book to read. While pushing the ladder to a new location, her mind wandered back to that passage. An entire kind of pony wiped out...

Shaking her head and getting onto the ladder, she resumed her search. A geography book peaked her interests next. Sliding down the ladder, she walked back over to the desk to engross herself in her next selection. Another half-hour passed before Twilight and Spike returned with saddlebags and a backpack respectively.

"Brought plenty of snacks!" Twilight called out, unloading the saddlebags onto one of the unused desks. Walking over, Twilight took a look at the book on the table then the one Somnia was reading. "Somnia?"

"Yeah?"

"Why are you crying?" She asked concerned for the filly.

"I'm not!"

Twilight walked around to where the filly was sitting, wiping Somnia's face with a small cloth to the filly's annoyance. Placing it onto the table in front of her, Somnia got a good look at the damp cloth confirming her mother's claim. Rather than say anything, Somnia pointed to the book across the table.

Taking it into her magical grasp, Twilight read the title out loud then briefly flipped through it. Confused, she turned back to Somnia. "I don't understand."

Somnia sniffled. "Gusty lied about what happened." The filly muttered. "She lied about Excalicorn, about alicorns, about ponies..." The filly put the geography book onto the table. "A-And..."

Moving to give her daughter a hug, Twilight let the filly sob into her fur until she could continue.

"T-The s-seaponies..."

"What's done is done. Nothing we can do now except move forward." Twilight consoled her. "Did you know Gusty the Great back in Excalicorn?"

"Y-Yeah..." She admitted, wiping the tears away with her foreleg. "She was always fun to spend time with when y-you and dad were away."

Taking another look at the book, Twilight considered it a moment. "She must have escaped the destruction of the city if she had written this."

"Celestia said Fae and Nightflame talked about her in the journal. I-I just want to know that she lived a good life." She looked up to her mother, eyes still wet. "T-That it ended painlessly."

Twilight used her magic to bring another chair over. "What was she like?"

"Kind, serious when it mattered, a-always willing to talk to other ponies... Kinda like you." Somnia turned her head towards the floor, slowly getting her emotions in check.

"Was she another royal family member, or--"

"She's my sister." The filly scrunched up her face, looking back up apologetically. "You wouldn't remember that though."

"Oh." Twilight leaned back a bit. "Oh!" It all sank in. She hadn't really considered what Somnia had said before about Twilight technically being Celestia and Luna's grandmother. Her brother and sister ruled the Crystal Empire, her daughter is going to become a queen when she grows up, her other daughter is one the earliest noteworthy ponies in all of Equestria's history, and her granddaughters currently did rule Equestria.

What a family tree!

"I mean, Swirl was fun too but he was always so serious." Somnia slumped back into her chair. Swirl...

"Did... Swirl have an aptitude for magic?" Twilight wanted to make sure it wasn't who she thought it was.

"Not really." Somnia admitted reluctantly. "He served in the Queen's Guard. I don't really remember him using his magic for anything other than shields or lasers." Phew, crisis avert-- "Celestia did tell me about my other nieces and nephews through Swirl. I don't know if Gusty had any foals though."

Wincing, Twilight considered asking Princess Celestia about her other grandfoals, but maybe she should try looking up some of the older family trees first to see if Gusty or 'Swirl' had foals. That would have to wait, right now she was busy trying to learn about the mystery chest.

Somnia picked up the geography book again, flipping to a roughly sketched map of the known world as of a thousand years prior. "This map is incomplete, by a lot. You can see five continents here, there's fifteen on Equus that the Harmonic Empire discovered, sixteen if you include the Graveyard of Empires."

"What?" Twilight stared at the filly as though she had an extra head.

"Yeah! See how the Celestial Reefs are hardly explored?" She pointed to a location to the south-east of Equestria. "It's so much bigger than that!"

"Are you saying that Equus is still mostly unexplored?"

"Well, yeah, I guess so. There was like a hundred unnamed continents but only sixteen were inhabited. It kinda just keeps going." The filly shrugged. "Excalicorn isn't even on the map. Actually, everything north-ish, south-ish, of the Great Divider is missing."

"Uhh..." Twilight saw a small bunny hopping into the room from the doorway as she processed that information. It kinda looked like Angel Bunny, but why would he be so far in the Everfree Forest?

Angel hopped up on the table Spike was using to read, startling him."Aaah!" Upon falling back in his chair, a clicking noise could be heard rattling its way through the floors. Two bookshelves parted to reveal a hidden room, surprising both Twilight and Spike. Entering into the small study, she spotted a single book on a pedestal in the center of the room.

"The Journal of the Two Sisters." She read out the title as Spike, Angel, and Somnia entered in after her, turning back to smile at Spike. "Maybe this is the book Princess Celestia was talking about!"

"Worth a try." Somnia shrugged, grabbing one of the cushions from the room to bring it out into the main library so she could sit on it.

"Don't you want to hear what's in it?" Twilight asked, peering out at the filly.

"Nah. It's just about their time living here."

Twilight squinted at her. "And how would you know that?"

"Dreams." Somnia settled down onto her new reading throne with the geography book. "I know everything that's going to happen tonight if I stay here with you. I think you should read it though."

"Uh huh. And what exactly is supposed to happen tonight?"

"You reading that book." The filly coyly replied back. "Trust me, you'll enjoy it."

Shaking her head, Twilight settled down for the night. Even if it didn't contain anything about the chest, what the princesses lives were like back in those days could be informative.

Not even two minutes later, Somnia called out: "I'm going to explore the castle!"

"Be safe!" She called back out. "I want you back in an hour!"

"Don't worry, you'll come looking for me before then!"

"Huh?" Twilight cast a glance to an equally confused Spike.

Keeping to the edges of the castle perimeter, Somnia looked around for her old friend, hoping they would get the hint.

I could just call out for them. Grar spoke up.

"The point is to not alert anypony else." She whispered. "I don't want to interfere with the events of tonight since it seemed to end well."

Already attempting to make such deliberations, young one?

Somnia turned around to see the timber wolf that had been trailing her. "Isirilas! How long have you been following me?"

Since you entered my forest.

"I want to see you. The real you." She demanded, staring down the timber wolf.

Whatever we need to discuss can be done through proxy. I promise, we can get together sometime around your birthday. I feel you will need my gift before then and I will be occupied with a foreseen event.

"Fine..." Somnia steeled herself for her question, she didn't actually know if Isirilas would take offense to it. "How many ponies have you killed since the Fall of Excalicorn?"

A moment of silence punctuated the thought they put into it. The filly began to shuffle uncomfortably at the silence. It wasn't like Isirilas to not know the answer to who had entered their forest.

Regrettably, too many.

Grar broadcast back to them: Old friend, was there no other option? Certainly Fae, or even her daughters, would have made measures to keep them from your woods.

The timber wolf growled. Do you think me dependent? That bitch and her foalish sister laughed me out of the site of their soon-to-be castle! I spoke to the latent intelligence within the sprouting tree, ultimately agreeing to appropriate terms to keep the peace. Until she sent those settlers to chop down my children. I would have loved to see her suffocate to death in those plunder-vines!

"Hey! She's my cousin!" Somnia scolded the wolf's controller. "You promised to not hurt the royal family!"

Not my fault Discord tried killing them. When you ascend to be queen, I humbly request an execution of the bastard. They have done nothing to alleviate the woes of the survivors.

Wincing at the wolf, Somnia never considered what exactly Discord was. He sounded similar to Captain Entropis, but more random and less cruel.

"What is Discord anyway? He kinda reminds me of--"

Because he is. Or rather was. Isirilas answered. Princess Faustinia sacrificed herself to continue the work Queen Gavelmede had begun on the fiend, albeit at the cost of her own life. I cannot forgive him for what he has done since the Fall of Excalicorn, even if you royals can.

"Oh..." Somnia fell back onto her haunches. "That's how Fae died..."

I really am sorry, Som. Grar comforted her. Good friend, do you happen to know what happened to Gusty and Swirl?

Gusty was mortally wounded attempting to defeat your other half roughly four thousand years ago. I only heard of what happened, as the Chillrend Mountains are too far even for me. I actually don't know what happened to Swirl, their disappearance is still a mystery to me, however it wouldn't surprise me if they finished off your other half in a last stand a thousand years ago, just before the coronation of the two sisters.

"S-So they really are gone..." Somnia closed her eyes, taking a few deep breaths. "First the seaponies, now them. Is- Is there anything else I should know?"

You already know the rest, young one. The timber wolf howled. The age of prosperity with the Harmonic Empire is over. I've waited thousands of years hoping that I could live to die a natural death, this is a bleaker reality than I would have liked to see.

Unfortunately, this is a pattern that has repeated itself more times than I care to admit seeing. Grar regretfully stated while Somnia made her way back to the front of the castle. Civilizations rise, achieve a golden age beyond all previous standards, and then they fall to their own hubris. I've seen entire planets be destroyed by pollution, cities of millions ended due to nuclear holocausts, industrialized suffering disguised as benevolence. It's what Excalion and I tried to prevent with ponies, but evidently we still managed to fail.

"Y-You couldn't have done anything to stop it." Somnia mumbled. "Free will is necessary for a harmonic society."

And that is the cost of harmony. Sometimes, you need to let your children fail so that they may grow stronger. Isirilas added.

I see that now, but not in my youth. I was naive to the true scale of suffering that was possible. It wasn't until my second renewal that I struck out and learned of the universe at large. Grar finished while Somnia hugged the timber wolf. It was nice chatting again, old friend.

Stop by anytime. You two are always welcome in my beautiful forest. Isirilas split off at the gate, leaving Somnia to deal with the other ponies alone, or mostly alone since Grar was always a royal pain in the--

That was one of the more memorable titles the queen bestowed upon me. Honestly, Captain Entropis' face was priceless when she announced it! I wish you could have seen it.

"Can't you show me your memories?" She whispered, looking around the corner of the hallway. All clear.

You must develop before I can. My soul can be quite... overwhelming for somepony without the proper faculties to understand what they are experiencing.

"Aww." She stopped at the next corner, hearing yelling and crying from down the way. "Seems I was a little off."

Within a minute or two is still decent.

"Let's go see how everything is going." She walked down the hallway on the tips of her hooves towards the courtyard. Getting to the corner, she could see absolute mania, just like the dream. Sneaking her way over to the crying and frustrated Fluttershy at the fallen pillar, she carefully dodged the chaotic running of Applejack and nearly blind flying of Rainbow Dash.

"Must... save..." Fluttershy grunted out, pulling even harder to lift the pillar. Somnia tapped her on the shoulder, startling her into falling to the rubble pile. "EEP!"

"Fluttershy, Angel's alright. He's with mom." Somnia laid her back on the rubble pile and smiled to Fluttershy to do the same.

"Somnia? What are you doing here?"

"Alright, everypony, stop!" Twilight froze everypony in her magic from the upper balcony with Spike and Angel. "Somnia, care to explain what's going on?"

"Twilight?" Applejack looked up as Rainbow Dash descended from above.

"Fluttershy? Somnia? What are you doing here?" The rainbow maned pegasus asked.

"Fluttershy's with me!" Rarity called out from under the fallen banner, having it lifted off by Twilight. "Thank you."

"Have you all spent the whole night running around, scaring each other?" The purple princess asked for anypony to answer.

"Well, that depends." Applejack eyed her.

"On what?"

"On whether or not you're the Pony of Shadows." Rainbow hovered close to her, putting an accusatory hoof to her chest.

Spike looked wearily to Twilight. "What's... the Pony of Shadows?"

"Somnia." Twilight motioned for her daughter to come over, Fluttershy also trotting over to give Angel Bunny a hug. "Know anything about the 'Pony of Shadows'?"

"Well..." She smiled right before an organ sound played out from within the castle, causing the other elements to huddle behind Twilight. "Somepony likes playing the organ in the lower levels of the castle."

"W-Who's playing... that?" Spike bit his claws nervously.

The filly started trotting off into the castle towards the organ with an amused but still confused Twilight and terrified company following behind. Trotting down the spiral staircases and through dimly lit halls from deteriorated light crystals, they arrived at a large chamber with multiple rows of benches in front of a massive pipe organ. The pony at the instrument continued to play, unknowingly being watched from the doors.

"The Pony of Shadows!" Rainbow whispered fearfully, getting eye rolls from both the princess and her daughter. Approaching the organ, the music being played increased in pace to build suspense before the reveal. Taking the hood off the mystery pony with her magic, Twilight sighed in relief as she saw the familiar pink mane of Pinkie Pie.

"Hey, you guys! Did you know I can totally play the organ? Because I didn't!" She played a few more notes.

"Pinkie?!" The other elements exclaimed.

"Check it out!" She played a small jingle.

"You're the Pony of Shadows?" Rainbow asked in disbelief, and some disappointment.

"The pony of what?"

The Pony of Shadows is long gone, do not worry. A voice boomed out in an unknown language to anypony except Somnia and Fluttershy, startling even Pinkie Pie. The group turned to see a timber wolf enter into the auditory chamber.

"G-Get back!" Rainbow and Applejack put up defensive postures, to the amusement of Somnia and Twilight, and terror of Fluttershy.

"Isirilas." Twilight walked forward, surprising her friends. "Have you been watching us this entire time?"

The wolf nodded, hoping the gesture would suffice to defuse the tension. Even so, Applejack and Rainbow Dash stayed alert in case it made a move.

"And you're here because..?" The wolf pointed to Somnia with its mossy paw. "What did she do this time?"

It's rude to finish on such a sour note. The filly giggled at the silliness, trotting over to give the wolf a hug.

"Thanks for chatting with me." She stuck a hoof into the wolf's eye, confusing everypony present. Removing the hoof, the eye color had changed to a yellow.

Anytime, young one.

"Who the hay is she talkin' to?" Applejack whispered to the other elements.

"I-Isirilas." Fluttershy answered quietly. "T-The guardian of t-the Everfree Forest."

Somnia got on top of the wolf and they began walking out of the room. Twilight shrugged to the rest of her friends, motioning for them to follow her. The group proceeded back upstairs to the library, giving the opportunity for Twilight to show them the secret room Spike accidentally discovered.

They all got comfortable, or as comfortable as they could be with a timber wolf laying in the corner of the room, while Pinkie explained why she was in the castle.

"I swear, this is going right back where I found it just as soon as I've returned it to its former glory." Rarity commented as she continued to stitch the banner back together.

Your majesty, please tell her she can take it. I would like to start reclaiming this territory.

"Isirilas says you can keep it." Somnia said back to her. "They want to have the castle retaken by the forest."

Rarity nodded, understanding that whoever this 'Isirilas' was, certainly wasn't somepony to be crossed.

"Now don't go running off again!" Fluttershy reprimanded Angel Bunny who happily ate carrots seemingly summoned from the floor. "Oh, I can't believe I was so frightened. Guess I let my imagination get the best of me."

"I think we all did." Applejack added.

"I always let my imagination run away from me! Then it comes back... with cake!" The enigmatic party pony confused the other elements, but they knew better than to question her logic.

"Well, it's good to know that whenever your imagination is getting away from you, a good friend can help you rein it in. And even though I didn't find anything about the mysterious chest, I'm glad I was here to help all of you." Twilight proudly proclaimed.

"You certainly did that, Twilight." Rarity chimed in.

"Yeah! Why weren't you scared?" Rainbow questioned.

"Somnia told me something was going to be happening." Twilight admitted, lightly smiling to the filly. "And reading Celestia's diary made it hard to be afraid, because I knew what it was like when she and Luna lived here. Knowing something about the past made it easier to deal with my problems in the present, even the scary ones."

The elements all nodded and chimed in their own words of agreement. Looking over to the large timber wolf and filly, Twilight had a newfound appreciation for both of them. She wouldn't admit it to her friends, but Luna had written an entry about how much she regretted going against Isirilas. The 'wolf' was just a proxy, the real entity lurked somewhere deep beneath the forest carefully watching and guiding it.

While they still were a brutal murderer, they also had a strict code of ethics that Luna had elaborated on after a few conversations with the creature and Tree of Harmony. If Somnia trusts them to not hurt her, going as far as to poke the eye of one of their servants, then it didn't make much sense to fear them either. As for her daughter, she certainly seems to know the types of friends to keep her company. Creatures she feels won't hurt her. Maybe it's a reflex? A coping mechanism to prevent being hurt anymore? Twilight mused.

As she turned her attention back to the journal, she gasped, looking to the curious faces of her friends. "I've just thought of a great idea! Why don't we keep a journal, just like the royal pony sisters?"

"All of us?" Fluttershy asked.

"Sure! That way we can learn from each other! And maybe some day, other ponies will read it and learn something too!"

"What a splendid idea!" Rarity nodded in agreement.

"I know what my first entry will be! 'Dear diary, I'm glad Granny Smith's legend wasn't true'." Applejack chuckled.

"Me too!" Rainbow added.

"Me three! Because that means you two are still tied for Most Daring Pony!" Pinkie jumped to between the two combatants as they stood to face each other down.

"Heh, Shadow Ponies... How ridiculous is that?" Spike nervously chuckled, frowning at the serious expression on his pseudo-sister. "R-Right?"

"Yeah..." Somnia didn't want to crush him, so she decided a lie in the moment would suffice. Putting on a smile: "Pretty ridiculous."

If only they knew the truth... Grar commented directly to Isirilas.

If only they could handle the truth, old friend.

Before leaving back for Ponyville, Twilight and the group headed down to the Tree of Harmony. Upon seeing the tree, Somnia could feel the power it radiated. Her fur stood on end, her very spirit soothed by its radiance. The Elements of Harmony were attached to the five largest limbs of the tree, a sixth in the middle representing her mother.

"This is the chest I've been talking about." Twilight showed her over to the chest. Carefully examining it, Somnia couldn't help but look back up at the elements on the tree.

Six holes, six elements, six ponies... "Seriously?" She deadpanned back to her mother.

"What? You don't look very impressed." She furrowed her brow slightly confused at the reaction.

"Each one of you will find a key!" Somnia blurted out, taking her mother off guard. After a moment of thought, Twilight facehoofed.

"Why didn't I think of that?"

"It's alright, darling." Rarity put her leg over Twilight's withers. "We can't all be detectives."

"This isn't even detective work!" Somnia countered. "Six elements, six holes, six ponies that represent them! Has nopony else seen this and told you that?"

Spike raised his claw, embarrassing Twilight even more. "Sorry, Spike."

"Yeah, yeah, let her have all the credit." He shook his head.

The queen returns. Twilight's voice echoed through the cave, startling everypony present.

"Uh, was that you Twi?" Rainbow questioned warily.

It's been such a long time, your majesty. I've only heard of you from the Beneath and Isirilas.

"I-Is the tree talking?" Somnia looked up to her mother, seeking clarification.

"I... I didn't know it could do that." Fluttershy added.

I hope your return will bring about an era of unending harmony.

"Hehe... I hope so too." The filly scratched the back of her neck, turning to the tree. "You know, a lot of creatures are expecting me to."

Feeling pressured is natural, for you will need to handle the pressure in case a disharmonious agent acts against harmony.

You must be the Tree of Harmony. Tell me: What do you know of the queen? Grar broadcast.

Grogar, I presume? I hope you are more harmonious than your actions have suggested. If not, I would kindly ask you separate yourself from the queen.

"He can't!" Somnia quickly clarified before the tree tried something that everypony would regret. "Don't worry, I'm in complete control!"

I certainly hope so. It would be a disharmonious act to remove the malignant tumor if they haven't done anything disharmonious since your merger.

Somnia trotted over to Twilight, foregoing whispering since they would hear anyway. "We need to go."

"Uhm, it was nice talking to you?" Applejack wasn't sure exactly if it was an odd thing that there was an actual talking tree. If only her trees could talk...

"But we can ask them about the chest!" Twilight ignored her daughter's pestering. "What is the chest for?"

That is for you and your friends to discover. Even I do not know fully what is within. The primordial magics are difficult to understand, even for one as powerful as myself.

Disappointed with the lack of an answer and with a filly tugging on her leg to go, Twilight relented. They each said a quick goodbye to the Tree of Harmony before heading back to the forest. By the time they exited on the side closest to Ponyville, the sun was rising.

The elements departed for their respective residences. It was quite the night of activity for Twilight, an all-nighter similar to when she was still studying under Celestia, and it drained the energy right out of her. Spike had fallen asleep on the walk back and Somnia wasn't too far off when they reached the library.

The guard outside saluted, seemingly unaware about the crow sitting on his helmet. Twilight was still uncertain about who or what the crow was, but neither Somnia nor Spike had mentioned it.

"Guard, can you hold still a mome- Nevermind." The crow flew off the guard's head just as Twilight was going to get close to it.

"Huh?" Both the guard and Somnia were confused what she was getting at.

"It's nothing." Twilight shook her head. "I'm just tired."

Chapter 10: Droplets

I've missed you, Lulu.

I know I wasn't the greatest sister, but all you needed to do was speak to me.

We could have worked something out...

I can only hope that your return tonight will be one to celebrate, rather than regret.

"Sergeant Fleeting Dust, your highness." The guardsmare stood at attention, eyed over by the purple princess that circled her.

"What's your history with the royal guard?"

"Formerly a member of the Lunar Guard Night Operations Division, I've served in the guard for over a full term and am on my second."

"Other than what you have already been able to gather from public or castle sources, do you know who Somnia is?"

"No, I haven't had the pleasure of being let in on those conversations."

"Not many have." The captain spoke up from across the room. "It isn't exactly something they want ponies to know until its already too late."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Twilight turned to face him.

"She really hasn't told you, has she?" The captain put down his newspaper. "That filly's going to get more powerful than even Princess Celestia."

"I know that, but why don't they want ponies to know?"

"Simple." He picked back up the newspaper. "Strategic surprise. Can't kill her when she's too powerful, but kill her while she's getting there and you'll avoid losing in the future."

Twilight gritted her teeth. Everypony seems to think she's in mortal danger, but there hasn't been a single issue that hasn't been handled with ease by the Royal Guard. It can't be that bad if they are only assigning three ponies to her.

"Shield, a little help." Somnia grunted out as she pushed against Spike, wooden blade to her throat.

"You started it, you end it." He chuckled.

"Ready to say sorry?" The dragon taunted.

"In your dreams, scaly-face."

"Somnia! That's rude." Twilight chastised getting two confused glances from the mock combatants.

"It's an accur- WOAH!" Spike was flipped onto his back, sword knocked away as Somnia reversed their roles. "Hey! That's dirty!"

"No, this is dirty." She let go of her sword and kissed him on the lips, stunning him in place for a few seconds.

"Gah!" He pushed her off, picking up both of the wooden swords and shaking his head as he walked away. Twilight could tell he wasn't angry. From the smile he was failing to suppress, he actually liked it.

Turning back to the mare, she briefly caught her cringing before returning to a stoic expression. Sighing, Twilight dismissed her to go guard the door outside the library before walking over to Somnia learning how to bandage another pony.

"Somnia, I'm going to be away tonight and I'm also leaving tomorrow evening for Manehattan. Do you want me to get you anything while I'm there?"

"I dunno, a postcard?" She mumbled out with the gauze in her teeth, trying and failing to get the bandage on Shield's foreleg while he read with the other.

"Straighter." He passively said, not taking his gaze from the articles.

"Ya know, you can help us with the bat problem?" Twilight waited on the filly's response, receiving nothing. "Captain, can you tell her that if she wants to--"

"I heard you the first time." The filly spit out the gauze roll. "Can you show me again, Shield?"

Twilight walked towards the door, stopping when Somnia yelled out to her. "Wait, you're going to Manehattan?"

"Didn't you hear me the first time?" Twilight turned back at her, grin plastered onto her face.

"Well, yeah, but it just registered." She trotted over, putting on her sweetest and ultimately fake pleading smile. "Can I have a sleepover with the CMC while you're gone?"

"I don't know. Captain, do you think she deserves to see her friends?" She cheekily smiled to the stallion.

"Hmm... Sounds pretty dangerous." He leaned back, smiling to both of them. "I could probably get the team together to discuss security options, but no guarantees."

Leaning down to Somnia's ear, Twilight whispered her answer. "If they want to, it's okay with me. Just don't make a mess of the library."

"Thanks, mom!" She gave Twilight a hug before trotting out of the library.

"It's a sleepover. What could possibly--"

"Don't say it!" The captain threw down his newspaper and pointed at her.

"What do you think?"

"Sounds good to me!" Scootaloo looked to the other two crusaders.

"I'll have to ask Rarity, but she'll probably be okay with it." Sweetie tentatively agreed.

"Granny prob'ly will be okay with it. Question, where are we doin' this sleepover?" The final crusader turned to Somnia.

"Well, anywhere really. The library will be free for us to use since mom and Spike are away. The guards will make sure we aren't without some adult nearby, so I don't think that anypony would object to my choice."

"Then it's settled!" Apple Bloom and the other fillies put their hooves into the center of the table. "CRUSADER SLEEPOVER AT TWILIGHT'S LIBRARY! YAY!" Somnia winced at the volume they put off on their own.

"Oww..." She rubbed her ears, and from where she sat, she could see Dusty doing the same. "Maybe not so loud next time?"

"Eh, how else are we going to make it official?" Scootaloo responded with a smug smile.

"Yeah, I think I heard that." Somnia checked her hooves to make sure her ears weren't bleeding. "Meet you at Sugar Cube Corner after dinner?"

"Deal!" They yelled in unison, letting Somnia go on her way, but not before casting a glance towards Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon who were watching from the furthest part of the playground.

"Where to next, Somnia?" Dusty stood at attention for the approaching filly. Somnia hadn't actually thought this far ahead. She didn't need to go back to the library for anything, but there was something she wanted to do.

"To the Everfree Forest! But first, we need to grab something from the library." She commanded, trotting off down the path from the schoolhouse. They briefly stopped by the library to don some saddlebags on each them before heading off towards Fluttershy's cottage. As they got close to the forest's edge, she could already see some of the renovations done around the edges. She expected signs, not a full log wall covered in thorns. There were two gates into and out of the Everfree closest to town, but the one near Fluttershy's would suffice.

Quickly going underneath the magic crystal, she waited for Isirilas' approval. The crystal glowed green and she stepped forward to let Dusty get scanned. Upon the green signal, Somnia trotted off into the woods with her nervous guard following close behind.

In the brush to the side, Somnia caught a glimpse of a timber wolf trailing their path. Her destination was clearly marked by signs put up by the newly formed Ponyville Everfree Patrol. The paths were also much safer since Isirilas agreed to compromise on the measures. While they still had the ultimate authority on who to accept or deny, as long as the pony was going to either the old castle or Zecora's, and respected the forest, then they were okay with it.

"Are you sure it's safe to be traveling through here?" The sergeant behind her questioned, her eyes focused on the timber wolf trailing them.

Safer than traveling through that blister at the edge of my beautiful forest.

"Did- Did the forest just talk?!"

"Yup! That's Isirilas." Somnia kept happily trotting along. "They're an old friend."

"Right, talking forests and ghosts..." She muttered as they continued to walk towards their destination. After a couple more minutes they arrived at the Castle of the Two Sisters with its newly repaired rope bridge. Once they got across, she had to ask: "Why are we here?"

"The old lab in the basement still needs to be cleaned out." Somnia stated. "That's why we both got saddlebags. I wanted to grab any of the good equipment still left before Isirilas begins reclaiming the lower levels."

They entered into the castle, grabbing one of the spare torches the patrol team stockpiled at the site before descending deep into the castle's depths. The passive light ceased, leaving them only with torch light by the time they got to the second lowest level. Somnia got up on Dusty's back to hold the torch while she focused on trudging her way through the water that went past her barrel.

"How do you know where we're going? We could just be wandering aimlessly for all I know." The guardsmare questioned.

"Trust me, we're on the right path. Take a right." They continued through the hallways, marking the corners with mud to find their way back. They eventually came to a series of large double doors covered in vines.

"Isirilas, did you break the magical seal?"

Centuries ago.

"Can you open the door then?" Somnia giggled. The doors were pulled apart by the vines revealing the half-flooded chamber with all manner of alchemy and enchanting equipment. The bookshelves had their lower shelves ruined by the flooding, but the top halves were still good. "I'll need to tell mom about this."

Examining the equipment, she picked out a few of the relatively intact items. A few flasks, tubes, crystals, and a small machine or two. "Hmm... We'll need to come back again for the bigger stuff. Hopefully I can get Shield to help us with that."

"Why do you want this junk?" She readjusted her armored hoof, touching a piece of glass under the water.

"It's not junk! It's priceless!" She leaned close to Dusty's ear. "Knowledge is potential, supplies are limitations, preparation is everything."

"Did you come up with that?"

No, I did. Grar responded.

"Of course." She rolled her eyes, heading back through the hallways using her mud markings to find her way back. Once they had ascended the stairs she took a moment to clear out the water from her armor while Somnia emptied water from the saddlebags.

"What do you think can be made with this?" She asked, Dusty getting cut off as the ghost responded.

Minor potions mostly. The advanced equipment is needed for anything more complicated than a sneezing potion.

"You made me trudge through water, risking any number of infectious parasites, for a prank?!" Dusty yelled at the filly who looked back at her confused.

"What? No, I made you trudge through water, risking any number of infectious parasites, so that I can stay up longer."

"We have coffee!"

"Not good enough. I need something better than coffee." She started repacking the saddlebags with the equipment. "And they have other uses. If you have a headache, or stomach ache, or if you have allergies..."

"Fine, whatever. Are we done here?"

"Almost." The filly put the saddlebags back onto each of them. "I need to look for a book."

They quickly went over to the library where Somnia picked out four books to carry with her, balancing each of her saddlebags. Without delay, they began their trek through the forest. Partway through, Somnia took a rest from the added weight, but they made it back before Dusty shifted off for the day.

Unpacking at the library, Somnia spotted the table had been set up in the downstairs laboratory for her to work with. One of the books was put onto the table while the other three were brought upstairs and placed next to her bed.

"Thanks again for helping! This will be so cool!" She squealed, turning in circles excitedly.

"Thank me after I get checked for parasites." Dusty shook her head, leaving to stand watch at the door.

Somnia trotted over to her bed and grabbed one of the books. She went to the downstairs reading area to study it in depth, making sure not the miss any of the details.

'Queen Faustinia: Fact and Fiction'

"What are you reading?" Twilight peeked over her daughter's shoulder. "Looks old."

"Huh?" Somnia rubbed her eyes. "Oh, I went to the old castle like I said. There's a few books in the basement you might want to save. Enchanting and alchemy tomes, mostly."

"Isn't the basement--" She gasped. "How many were ruined?"

"A few shelves." Somnia shrugged. She didn't exactly know how many other shelves might have been underneath the water, but if she had to take a guess, probably at least twelve pony lengths. Not that she would tell her mother that, if only for her sake.

"Wait, why were you in the basement?" Twilight narrowed her eyes. "Not planning anything, are you?"

Somnia leaned back, taking a sip from her cup before hoofing it over to her mother. Taking a small sip, Twilight's eyes opened wide. "Woah, that's strong."

"Grar knows more than those books. He taught me how to make this, and he even told me about its limits and side-effects."

One cup every twenty-four hours, do not take in conjunction with fruit or it will counteract the effect, caffeine should be avoided for maximum impact. If you find your urine is brown, discontinue use.

"How did you even discover this?" Twilight examined the liquid within the cup. "It looks and tastes like juice."

Experimentation with fauna and flora during my early millennia on Equus. I kept up to date as plants and animals evolved, even cultivating my own specialized plants to fulfill functions I couldn't find elsewhere. When you have all the time in the world, you find ways to entertain yourself.

"Know anything to stop vampire fruit bats from eating apples?" Twilight grinned hopeful.

A laser to the chest or cutting off their head works. I could give you an appetite suppressant recipe if you don't have the nerve to kill them directly. Immediately getting a frown from the princess as her hopes were crushed.

Somnia went to grab the cup but Twilight pulled it out of her reach. "This is mine now. You can make more for tomorrow. Can it be frozen or left standing?"

Depends. Do you like having brown urine that slowly turns red until your kidney's fail? Or that, plus strokes?

"Point taken." Twilight gulped the last of the drink down, shaking her head at the sudden surge in energy. "Seriously though, here's your chore since you're going to be living here. Make three cups every morning. It will be a massive boost in productivity to get going right out of bed."

"No fruit for breakfast?" The filly frowned.

With a sigh: "Are you willing to put up with the sacrifice of fruit for breakfast?"

"No..."

"Then I guess we'll manage." Twilight tried thinking of something else she could do. "Grar, do you know any good recipes for magical potency?"

Got horn dysfunction, princess? He joked getting a giggle from his host.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Do you or don't you?"

Several. To what degree and what risk?

"As high as possible without carrying serious risk?"

Sleeping is pretty good for that. Everything else carries risks, including horn dysfunction from overuse. Don't do drugs, Twilight.

"It's not a drug! It's a potion!"

"Same thing." Somnia pawed at her. "Come on. Do you really think that you can separate alchemy and chemistry by what's a 'drug' and what's a 'potion'?"

Alchemy is just magical chemistry.

"Alright, fine!" Twilight shook her head. "You win this time. I want to know what other recipes you have though."

"Oh!" Somnia grabbed a baggy from under the table filled with a white, chalky substance. "Try some of this!"

"What is it?" Twilight floated out a small lump, smelling it briefly before putting it into her mouth. It was... fruity? Not too dissimilar to a pear.

"It's artificial flavoring! Not very nutritious, but tasty to add an extra touch without actually using the fruit!" She squee'd.

"That's... kinda cool, actually." Twilight swirled the flavored rock on her tongue. "What's used in it?"

"A flower that matches the fruit and the blood of skunks to bind it together!"

Twilight never spat out something so quickly in her entire life.

"Blood of a skunk?" Fluttershy asked concerned.

"You've got to make me that pick-me-up, darling. It would help with those last minute arrangements." Rarity batted her eyes at the filly.

"Don't tempt her, don't know what she'll do." Dawn chuckled as he followed the group to Sweet Apple Acres.

"Hey! I'm not a floozy!" The filly fussed, getting confused looks from the elements, minus Twilight who narrowed her eyes at the guard.

"I'm only trusting you because she trusts you." Twilight poked his armor. "Any funny business and you're gone, understood?"

"Crystal." He smirked back at her, popping another pear-crystal into his mouth. "Want some?"

Nopony took him up on the offer except Rainbow Dash, much to the disapproval of Fluttershy. After getting Applejack, they spread out in the orchard, each taking a row except for Somnia and Dawn who walked together.

"Mom doesn't like you very much." Somnia spoke up after a minute or two. "I don't know if it's because of what we did or what you are."

"Does she even know?" He finished off the baggy, tucking the wrapper into one of the attached pockets on his armor.

"I doubt we can avoid tell- WHAA!" Somnia fell to the ground as something flew right over her, directly into Dawn. Looking up, she should have been terrified but couldn't help but smile at the sight.

"A- Eh, a little help?" Dawn struggled against the batty Fluttershy licking his face and neck, nibbling on occasion.

"Aww..." Somnia got up and went over to the stallion in distress. "You know, she looks pretty cute as a batpony."

"This is batty beyond batponies!" He managed to get to his hooves, although Flutterbat kept aggressively attempting to get him to return her affections. "Where's the flashlight?" He checked the spot on his armor where it was supposed to be, but it wasn't there.

Somnia took a quick look around before spotting it laying on the ground. "Found--" Flutterbat dove onto it, breaking it with her hoof. "It..."

She returned to assaulting the poor guard who kept her at bay. "Go get the others! I'll keep her busy!"

"No bucking!" Somnia ran off while he kept her at leg's length.

"Damn, you're a lot friskier than I expected." He whispered as she sniffed and licked at him, going after his legs to work her way up towards his head.

Another minute later, a flashlight illuminated the area above him as Rainbow Dash flew in followed by the other elements on hoof.

"Damn. She wants it bad!" Rainbow laughed. "Gotta get her outta the cottage sometime."

"I'm glad you- WOAH!" Dawn was pushed over by the mating-mode Flutterbat as she tried to excite his shaft from its sheath. "H-Help?"

"Alright, I think she's had her fun." Twilight grabbed Flutterbat in her magic to pull her away. "Rarity, do you think you can hold her in your magic while I reverse the spell?"

"She's a bit... rough." Rarity commented as Flutterbat attempted to break free of the magical hold, occasionally getting the princess to strain in order to keep her grip.

"Hmm..." Twilight put a hoof to her chin in thought.

"If only we had Fluttershy to do her Stare on the Flutterbat." Pinkie sulked, giving Twilight an idea.

"This will sound crazy, but it just might work..."

"Are you done?" Dawn asked while keeping Flutterbat from going the next step with his enlarged member.

"I think we are ready." Twilight held up a mirror next to him. "I just need you to get her to look into the mirror without looking into it yourself."

"Easier--" He went in for another kiss to placate the impatient tease. "Said--"

"I can do it. Just float it behind me." Somnia walked over to the impromptu lovers, hissing at Flutterbat as she tried kissing Dawn again. The two began aggressively hissing back and forth at each other until Somnia got close enough to kiss her. Floating the mirror behind Somnia, Rarity nodded to Somnia from the side. Dropping the kiss and ducking out of the way left Flutterbat staring completely dumbstruck into the mirror while Twilight performed her spell.

Wrapped up in a magical cocoon, the former bat-pony was turned back into a regular pony, Twilight gently putting down Fluttershy onto the ground.

"Oh... where am I?" She rubbed her head as the girls gathered around her cheering.

"Thank goodness you're okay!" Applejack exclaimed, helping her friend back up.

"But... what happened to me?"

"You turned into a vampire pony!" Pinkie happily stated.

Fluttershy gasped. "I tried to eat ponies?!"

"Kinda. You were a bit rough on Mr.Dawn over there." She pointed over to the stallion that got up to wipe himself off. A few bites managed to break skin, causing a few droplets of blood to run down his neck and armor.

"Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry!" Fluttershy trotted over to make sure he was alright.

"Next time, warn me when you are going apple crazy." He winced as he stretched a bit, pulling a particularly painful muscle back into something more normal. "You really need to get laid."

"Wha- What?" Fluttershy was completely taken aback, looking to her friends for clarification but they all kinda agreed in their own ways with nods or words of agreement. "I-I..."

"You kinda were goin' heat crazy." Applejack spoke up from the group.

"Fluttershy, we need to talk." Rainbow Dash put her leg around her friend's withers. "There's plenty of stallions out there, we just got a find one that will treat you right."

"What?"

"Or mares, if that's what you prefer."

"What are you talking about?! What did I do?!" She yelled out, completely terrified she tried to--

"You were grinding on me." Dawn finally said, stretching out his back leg. "Full, mare-in-heat grinding. Damn... That was something..."

"Steady colt." Somnia approached him, planting her lips on his. "You're mine."

"Somnia!" Twilight teleported over pushing her away from him. "What do you mean? Y-You... You didn't..." At the filly's suggestive smile, she turned around smacking Dawn in the face with as much strength as she could muster in her hoof, knocking him to the ground. "FOAL-FIDDLING BASTARD!"

Dawn spit out some blood onto the ground, turning Twilight's anger into concern. "You can be one mean mama bear..."

"Why am I not surprised?" Rarity deadpanned, narrowing her eyes at the scene unfolding.

"I'm so sorry, Mr.Dawn." Fluttershy rushed over. "Can- Can you forgive me?"

"Save my rump from your friend, and all's forgiven." He chuckled, readjusting his jaw with a click.

"Twilight?" She turned up to the alicorn staring at the two of them.

"Did... Please tell me you didn't..." Twilight pleaded.

Somnia saddled up to her mother, a massive shit-eating grin on her face. "I guess we'll find out in a week or two if I'm preg--"

"BUCKING--" The enraged mother was held back by Rainbow Dash and Applejack as she went in to literally kick him while he was down.

Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle,

I understand your concerns, however both Somnia and Broken Dawn have been very forward about what happened. His assignment will remain so long as Somnia wishes for him to remain. I have recommended a few gelding clinics below if you believe that this will be a consistent problem between them.

Let me know how the test goes. I pray it is negative, for both your sake.

Yours truly,
Princess Celestia of Equestria

Not even a minute later. Not a minute after the letter was sent that she replied. She knew about it and didn't tell her.

"That's crazy." Dusty shook her head, returning back to disinfecting the bite marks on Dawn, enjoying the story as Somnia recited it to her. "If only I had been there to see that."

"It's not funny!" Twilight turned back to the group. "She could be pr--" She stopped herself from repeating it, instead turning the thought into a growl.

"What's wrong with another royal family member?" Somnia sat back rubbing her belly.

"You're too young! That's what's wrong! And you!" She pointed at Broken Dawn. "I swear I'll--"

"Get in line." He quipped back, bumping hooves with Somnia. "I've already got two princesses gunning after me, three if you include in the sexua--"

"NO!" Twilight turned back. "I don't want to hear it!"

"Don't worry, princess." Dusty walked over to her. "She's probably not... that. Didn't you hear about when she talking about alicorn fertility?"

"It's the principle of it!" Twilight turned to the guardsmare. "Aren't you bothered by it?"

"Yeah, but throwing a fit won't solve anything. He's a pervert and she's a slut, but calling them what they are isn't going to change either of their minds."

"Then what will?" Twilight whimpered out. "I've tried, and tried, but nothing's worked..."

What I told you from the beginning. Let her be who she is. She will struggle, she may even be badly hurt, but that is the best way for her to learn. When you outlive everypony else, all mistakes are temporary. Grar spoke up.

"He's probably right." Shield glanced up from the book he was reading. "I hate to say it, but she's a complete disaster waiting to happen and all we can do is watch until it comes to a stop or we need to step in."

"Yeah, they're probably right." Somnia admitted. "I don't always think things through."

That's an understatement.

"Shut up, Grar. You aren't much help either!"

But you had fun that night!

"You could have told me it was alcohol!"

"Wait." Dawn shook his head. "He didn't tell you it was alcohol?!"

It was too much fun to see her drunk!

"I hate all of you." Dusty groaned, going back outside to stand guard.

"Somnia, how do you come across these ponies?" Twilight asked, looking for something, anything to give some rationale for the madness.

"I don't know. I get stuck with them or I like them." She shrugged, going back to to reading her book indifferent to the chaos she trails along with her. Choosing to get some fresh air, Twilight went outside where Dusty was standing guard idly.

"I can't do this." Twilight leaned against the sign to the library. "I just can't..."

"Permission to speak freely, princess?"

"Yeah, why not?" She dismissively waved to to the guardsmare, returning the hoof to rub her head.

"You're probably going about this the wrong way. I don't mean to sound harsh, but from my limited time with Princess Somnia, I've seen that she responds better when you work with her, rather than against her".

"I've tried that! It didn't work." Twilight turned to her. "She's still a little devil that spreads chaos wherever she goes!"

"That's kind-of the point." The guardsmare leaned her spear against the bushes. "If you can't work with her, and you can't work against her, you work around her. She's going to do more insane things and say things you don't agree with, but if you learn how to deal with the worst of it then you can temper her behavior to within tolerable limits. It's parenting 101 for teenage ponies."

"But its all so much! She goes about doing whatever she pleases, giving no thoughts to how other ponies feel about it!"

"Other ponies, or just you?" She raised a brow. "Does she see your perspective? Have you tried talking to her, one-on-one, alone? Do you know her perspective? Do you know why she does what she does?"

"Because she's a borderline suicidal filly that thinks she knows how to handle herself!" Twilight marched over to the guard. "And no, she doesn't care about what any other pony thinks about her behavior!"

Dusty bit her lip, mulling over what she had said. "Princess, has there been a time where she did listen to you? That you dissuaded her from behaving recklessly?"

Twilight thought back. Each time they had a quiet moment to chat, Somnia or Grar gave away some small hints about her motivations, and Twilight tried explaining to her why she shouldn't or making a compromise. "Yeah, she has listened to me before."

"What's different about now compared to then?"

It slowly dawned on her. "It's me. I didn't listen to her side. I didn't give her a chance to convince me. I was so caught up in my anger I didn't listen her."

Dusty grabbed Twilight's shoulders. "Look at me." The princess reluctantly turned to the mare. "She's a complete mess, yes, everypony was correct about that. You can't fix that. Only she can. The best you can do is soften the fall and dissuade what you can. Nopony expects you to be a perfect parent, because there's no such thing as a perfect parent."

"Princess Celestia wanted me to keep her on a tight schedule, make sure she--"

"Forget Celestia, forget all of it. This isn't an ordinary situation with some foal with barely any critical thinking. She's smarter than she makes herself out to be, even if she doesn't realize it. Keeping Broken Dawn around? A control tactic. Keeping those close who she feels comfortable with, even if you disagree with what they do in their time alone. She chose me out of the three candidates. Why? Because she believes she can control me, that I won't be a threat to her or you. And you know what? She's right."

"But... I don't understand. How can she control you?"

"You see a filly that puts somepony on her guard who has a dislike for the other two guards and herself, she resents being there every second that passes. Why would she choose them over two other ponies that did want to be a part of her personal guard?"

"That doesn't seem very--"

"Because she sees that I'm not a mindless drone. She can convince me, even if it takes a long time, she believes I can be convinced to her side. I'm a dissenting voice, compared to a captain that just wants to please his princess and her own rut buddy. I bet you, I can go in there and ask her to clean upstairs and she will do it with some convincing, but I'll never be able to break her up with either of the other two stooges. Why? Because she can trust me to be me and not to try to change her to be like me.

"I want you to think about this: What are the Elements of Harmony? Does she present each one?"

"Loyalty..." Definitely, she isn't willing to give up on a cause just because it is a hard fight. Even if that lost cause is a foal-fiddler or meat-eating pony. Or both.

"Kindness..." While she hasn't expressed it quite so delicately, she cares for the well-being of other ponies without beating around the bush. When somepony is hurting, she isn't one to sit by idly to watch, and she genuinely regrets hurting ponies.

"Generosity..." Not really much to go on, but she is willing to give her time to help others, even if she doesn't like it. Last night's event in the orchard was just the most recent example.

"Laughter..." Silly, obscene, playful. Absolutely.

"Honesty..." When push comes to shove, she always tells the truth, or finds a way to pass it off on somepony else to explain when its related to her past. She may not always say the truth right away, but her reasons come to light, for the better. Does Applejack lie? Hard to tell.

"Magic..." Are the guards her friends? Grar, Faustinia, and Isirilas certainly are, and she seems to treat the guards as friends. Sure, they were all horrible ponies except for maybe Shattershield, Fleeting Dust, and Faustinia, but they all seemed to genuinely care about each other for their own reasons.

"Do you see now? She's slowly demonstrating exactly what made you a princess. Give her time, I guarantee that you will see more of who she really is."

Twilight took a deep breath, calming her nerves. "How do you know all of this?"

"There's been no threats against her that I've seen, I've got a lot of time to stand around to think." She smiled back. "Now go in there and talk to that filly. She needs it, and you need it."

With renewed determination, Twilight gave the guardsmare a hug, whispering: "Thank you" To her before entering straight into the library, standing proud. Broken Dawn had changed out of their armor and had their saddlebags ready to return to the barracks, and the filly was pestering Shield about something, annoying him as he read a book.

"Lieutenant, I would like a word with you in private." Twilight motioned for him to follow her upstairs. Both Shield and Somnia watched them walk upstairs. Once the door had closed, Twilight faced down the guardstallion.

"More yelling?" He smirked.

"No." Twilight sighed. "I'm probably going to regret this... but I'll leave you be on three conditions."

"Protect her with my life, don't hurt her, don't get her pregnant. Yeah, that's pretty much what Princess Luna had told me."

Twilight blinked. "Y-You are already--"

"Yup." He walked over to her, getting close enough to whisper. "I wouldn't even dream of hurting her. I'm not a monster, I just made a huge mistake, and I'm suffering for it every day. I lost my rank, my command, my dignity, a sizable portion of ponies I considered friends, and the respect of every princess except for her. She's my only lifeline that doesn't involve returning back home to the jungles."

"That--"

"Doesn't sound healthy? No, it isn't. But we all have choices to make. I've made mine. You need to make yours." He walked past her, returning to downstairs leaving the princess behind to stew about what he had said.

A minute later, the door opened behind her before gently closing. "Mom? You wanted to talk?"

Did they plan this? She facehoofed. Of course...

"You saw this happen, didn't you?"

Somnia walked to in front of Twilight, offering a smile. "Yeah. I knew you were going to have a breakdown. I had Shield talk to Dusty about it while I was making more potion-base, and Dawny also needed to get on your good side."

Honesty... "So this was planned? Everything in the orchard...?"

"Nah, that just sorta happened." She giggled. "I admit, I did have fun. Thanks for inviting me to come along."

Laughter... "But you didn't need to come. You could have stayed here and played board games or..." She bit her tongue, not wanting to dwell on what Broken Dawn and she would have gotten up to.

"What's the point of doing that when I could be doing something helpful for my mom?"

Loyalty...? Wait. "Somnia!"

"Sorry. Force of habit." She saddled up next to her mother, nuzzling her neck. "Don't worry about me. Grar always gives me his input when he thinks its too much, and he's always watching over me."

"I know. But I still want to be involved in your life besides giving you things to eat and a place to live." She hugged the filly who wrapped her forelegs around her mother's body.

"And I don't want to push you away." Somnia admitted, looking up to her mother's eyes. "I'll always love you, even when I don't always show it or we argue."

"I love you too, Som. Don't ever think that I don't." The two sat embraced, simply taking in each other's presence.

The fillies waved off the train as it left for Manehattan, receiving waves in turn from the elements.

"So what are we gonna do first?" Apple Bloom asked, turning to the group. "I was thinkin' more crusadin' but..."

"I can watch. It's no problem for me." Somnia smiled to them.

"How did you get your cutie mark? Maybe we could try that." Scootaloo lowered her face to Somnia's flank, examining the cutie mark. "It looks complicated."

It was.

Sweetie squeaked before regaining her composure. "I completely forgot about Grar."

"So how'd it happen?" Apple Bloom went to Somnia's other flank.

"I, uh... It's too difficult to repeat." Somnia answered, hoping to change the topic. "And I don't think it can happen twice."

You would be correct. I'm still surprised it worked at all.

"Oh." Scootaloo backed away, getting a good look at Somnia. "Well, what about you, Grar? Did you have a cutie mark?"

No, nor could I receive one without serious modifications to my very essence. Only Children of Harmony may get cutie marks.

But I do have a recommendation: Forget about trying to get your cutie marks tonight. Have a good time at the sleepover without stressing out about it.

"I'm good with that." Sweetie agreed, receiving nods from the other crusaders. The group made their way back to the library where Lieutenant Dawn waited out front. Shield broke off from the fillies to have a word with his subordinate while they went inside the library.

"Dawn, you're here early."

"Couldn't sleep." He simply stated.

"Still on your mind?"

"Yeah. What do you think? Should I ask her out?"

The captain shook his head, chuckling. "Nah. She's an Element of Harmony, and if I'm right, probably not keen on relationships. I say rub one out then forget about her."

"Probably for the best." Dawn shrugged before winking to the captain. "Don't want any competition from the queen, now do I?"

"She'll kill you." The captain patted him on the shoulder, considering something bugging him. "Hey, did you get a badge recently with a note attached?"

"Yeah?" He rubbed the back of his head. "I mean, I get what they said. But it's really weird."

"Yeah." Shield looked around, only about two other ponies were in sight as well as a few birds. "Tell me if you learn anymore about who it could have been. I'm headed back to the barracks. Dusty and I will be back at sunrise." He walked away while Dawn returned to his guard stance. A minute later, Somnia opened the door and grabbed his hoof, leading him into the library. Up the stairs, he saw the fillies gathered in the center of the room around a lantern, all other lights having been extinguished. Luckily for him, he could see in the dark. Unluckily for him, it was four fillies, and he was completely alone with them.

"Dawny, we want you to tell us the story about how you got your cutie mark." Somnia nuzzled into him lovingly. "If you can spare a moment for the four of us..."

"Yeah. I can." He sat down next to Somnia, turning to the other curious fillies. "I was born and raised in Texcocoa, deep within the jungles of southern Equestria. We didn't have much money, or really anything, so I decided to join the local militia at a young age in order to patrol for threats."

"Wait, you were a guard when you were a colt?" Scootaloo leaned on her hooves, eyes shimmering. "That's so cool!"

"Not the guard. We had to form our militia because the guard didn't protect us." He clarified.

"But ain't the guard everywhere in Equestria?" Apple Bloom raised a curious brow.

He sighed. "Moving on, I was out on patrol with the other militia close to the edge of town, like any other patrol over the past couple of months, when we spotted chariots headed for the village. Returning to see what the fuss was about, we came face-to-face with the Solar Guard commanded by a Lieutenant Flare or something. We made our way over to the makeshift hut serving as the town hall, all the while hearing yelling coming from it.

"They dragged out our mayor in chains, surprising everypony who was around to watch. Our squad leader approached demanding to know why the mayor was being arrested." He scratched the back of his neck. "Something about 'conspiracy to commit treason', if I remember correctly. The mayor denied the allegation of course, demanding to the other members of the town to not stand for the act of tyranny."

"That sounds serious." Sweetie commented, her face etched with concern. "Were they guilty?"

Dawn shrugged. "Who knows? Never got to trial after what happened that day. The solar officer hit him in the face, knocking a few teeth loose onto the ground. 'Shut your mouth, you damn traitor!'" He mimicked the voice. "Our squad leader demanded to know precisely why they were arresting him, demanding some form of proof. The officer laughed in his face, ordering his guards to take the mayor to the waiting prison chariot. The mayor struggled free of their grip and made a run for it."

"Um, Dawny? Are you sure it's appropriate to tell them the rest?" Somnia snuggled into his side, pleading with her eyes. "It sounds like it doesn't end well."

"Aww, but it was just getting interesting!" Scootaloo exclaimed. "What happened next?"

The guard took a deep sigh. "They projected flames at him from their horns, burning him alive."

The crusaders froze. "Woah." Apple Bloom whispered. "That doesn't sound like the guard I know."

"You see the Royal Guard. All-purpose soldiers meant to serve as a defensive force in place of militias. The Solar Guard is closely linked with the E.U.P. military, focused on assault and warfare. Compared to the espionage and covert operations of the Lunar Guard, the Solar Guard is the opposite. Shock troops is the term used for them."

"D-Did the mayor survive?" Sweetie followed-up.

"What do you think?" He stared into her eyes, making sure the point got across before continuing. "Our militia leader didn't stand for it and attacked the officer, the rest of us following behind. I can still remember the smell when I woke up. It was a massacre. I was dragged to Canterlot and indicted as a traitor to Equestria. If it wasn't for the pardon Princess Celestia gave to the living militia members, I would still be in prison to this day."

"What happened to the lieutenant? Did they get punished for what they did?" Scootaloo asked hopeful, a hope that Dawn unfortunately crushed with a shake of his head.

"They falsified the reports. The only reason Celestia didn't sentence the militia was because of eye-witnesses. Twelve ponies were killed that day, the mayor, eight of the militia, two civilians that joined the fight, and a single bystander. The Solar Guard didn't even get a scratch on their armor, only the lieutenant got a bloody nose from the first punch."

"I can't believe they didn't punish that officer!" Apple Bloom huffed in aggravation. "They killed a pony in cold-blood!"

"That's solar justice for you." The guard shrugged. "Why I joined the Lunar Guard, so that I could prevent reckless guards from doing things like that. So that I could do it the right way."

"But how did you get your cutie mark?" Scootaloo asked confused about its lack of mention.

"Oh, right. I probably got it sometime after I was knocked unconscious." He admitted, lifting one of the plates on his armor to show the broken sun with sparks flying from it forming six stars. Somnia didn't really pay much attention to cutie marks normally, but that was something she couldn't ignore for whatever reason. Six stars... Shattershield's cutie mark had six stars embedded into a shield, Dusty had six stars trailed by dust clouds. Her own cutie mark...

I'll tell you its meaning another time. Do not worry, you will enjoy it when the time comes.

"Anyhow, that's how I got my cutie mark. Pointlessly charging trained soldiers and losing a few of my friends." He got back up. "Need anything else?"

"N-No, we're good." Somnia dismissed him. Once he had left, she let out a shaky sigh.

"That wasn't very good..." Sweetie winced. "I thought getting a cutie mark was supposed to be a happy thing."

"It did turn out well for him, didn't it?" Scootaloo countered. "He found his purpose. Joining the guard to make a difference, so that nopony was hurt by monsters like those other guards."

"You wanted to know how I got my cutie mark..." Somnia spoke up, looking away from them. "Do you really want to know?"

"Only if you're okay with it." Apple Bloom put a hoof on her shoulder. "If it's hard to talk about, we'll understand."

Closing her eyes, Somnia began. "I relived the entire experience through the eyes and feelings of Grar and the other creatures present, or maybe I somehow knew what was happening, I don't know. There's a lot I don't understand, but I saw enough to know what happened." She cleared her throat, opening her eyes and turning to the crusaders. "A couple of days after I was born, Grar took me down to his secret laboratory. It was a large chamber encircled by machines and thousands of chairs with all sorts of ponies and creatures locked into them. At the center were two platforms, one of which had a table.

"I was secured onto the table, metal being placed around my hooves so that I couldn't escape and a ring around my horn to prevent magical surges. Grar made one last check around the room, making sure the prisoners were secured and the machines working correctly."

"Wait, you used prisoners?! Like, ponies against their will?!" Sweetie stared in shock.

Better those who had their chance at a harmonious life than those who were innocent. They were meant to act as a buffer between myself and Somnia. Fodder for the magic I was about to use.

"What happened to them though?" Apple Bloom leaned forward along with the other two crusaders.

Somnia forced her eyes closed, tears forming at the edges. "Grar took his place on the other platform with the Councilor's Orb. It's in my nightstand upstairs. Then..." She choked back the tears, resulting a few droplets streaking down her cheeks. "T-Then..."

That's enough. You don't need to continue, I think they get the point.

"T-They deserve to know..." She sat up straighter, daring not to open her eyes. "It took less than a second. I don't actually know how long it lasted. The entire room was filled with a magical vortex, ripping apart the souls of every creature present. Me, Grar, the prisoners..." She shook her head as a few more tears dropped. "I can still feel the ache when I think about it. I shouldn't be able to, but I can. Grar had his skin and muscles melt down to the bone while the others were disintegrated in an instant."

"A-And you?" Sweetie asked, scooting over to put a leg around her shoulders to comfort her.

"I was crying and thrashing against the metal that melted against my legs." She held out a foreleg, pushing aside some of the fur near to the hoof. A weird wrinkled pattern on the skin revealed itself. "It felt... I-I don't know how it felt. It was so quick that I can't really understand what I experienced."

There is a word to describe it, however.

"Forever." Somnia stated simply. "Who I was before was erased from reality. My own mother didn't even know she had another daughter so recently. The only thing to tell them why I existed was a hoofful of unusual memories, the genetics test they performed, Grar lying half-dead next to me, the queen knowing there was an experiment being done, the missing pieces on certain records..."

The old Somnia, whoever they were, died that day. And I was the one to kill her.

The crusaders were in complete silence. Scootaloo was the first to ask the question: "What happened after?"

"The queen, my grandma, came looking for the Councilor's Orb. She struggled her way through the vortex and retrieved Grar, me, and the orb before activating the fail-safes in the upper laboratory to seal off that section to be forgotten. The only reason she lived was because of the Excalicorn Amulet, and Grar because his soul was so potent." She let out a shaky breath. "Both Grar and the queen were different when they recovered for the follow-up meeting of the royal family. They were both meaner, cruel even to friends and family."

The queen suffered lashings to her soul, and I had been quite literally split into two entities. One remained in my old body, the worst aspects of my former life, the other bonded directly to Somnia's soul. Princess Miracle Spark, who you know as Twilight Sparkle, was given Somnia when we discovered the genetics suggested she was the mother. After a few more days, Miracle Spark named her Somnia Temporus.

"O-Over twelve thousand creatures died that very second, a-and all f-for me." Somnia finished finally breaking down into sobs, hugging her face into Sweetie Belle's shoulder. While the unicorn filly patted her on the back, she looked to the other crusaders. Each one was in their own state of shock.

"I-I'm sorry..." Apple Bloom apologized, hanging her head. "I didn't realize it was so painful."

Somnia turned up, wiping away some of the remaining tears. "Nothing can be done about it now. What's done is done, and I have to live with it forever."

"Have you tried erasing your memories?" Scootaloo asked, getting curious looks from the other fillies. "I mean, I've heard some ponies having their memories erased of traumatic stuff."

You misunderstand, my little filly. She can't get them erased because she doesn't have them. Mentally, she is barely functional, a brain which sole duty is to act as a control panel for the body. I did the same thing with mine, albeit to a lesser degree. Her soul is what is keeping her alive and experiencing, and to remove something from a soul... that is far more painful than merely erasing a memory. Essentially impossible for somepony like Somnia as well.

"But that's enough of that." Somnia cleared her throat, looking into Sweetie's eyes with a half-smile. "I, um, kinda got a bit of snot on you."

"Huh?" Sweetie whispered, their mouths less than a hoof away from each other. "Oh, um, t-that's alright." She backed up a bit. "Where do you keep the tissue boxes?"

"There's one on my mom's desk." Somnia pointed over to the other side of the room. Sweetie took the lantern, leaving them in the dim darkness. "I'm sorry if you were expecting a happy ending, but not every story has one."

"That's alright, you got it out of your system." Scootaloo halfheartedly smiled. "Feeling better?"

"No, but I hope I never feel better about what happened." Somnia giggled. "I don't want to ever get used to the pain." She got up from the floor, stretching a bit as Sweetie came back over.

"Let's do something fun!"

Chapter 11: Legacy

I-I'm scared.

Shh, it's okay. We've done what we could. Now we need to trust everything will be fine.

I-I... I love you.

I love you too, my Miracle.

We can't hold them for much longer, your excellencies!

M-Mystic, there's so much I still want to tell you...

You can tell me later. Because even if the universe revolts against forever...

"Ugh!" Twilight threw her head down into the pile of scrolls and books. There's nothing! How can so many important ponies not have records of their families?!

"I got nothing." Spike threw aside another book, taking a moment to stretch. "Are you sure they had foals?"

"Celestia confirmed what Somnia had said. I had other grandfoals that did have foals of their own throughout the years!" Twilight got back up. "Somnia, do you have any ideas?"

"Nooo." She admitted, rereading a line on the scroll she was examining. "But wouldn't you technically be the ancestor to every other pony? Kinda hard to keep it in a single lineage."

"Which is why I'm so frustrated!" Twilight exclaimed, picking up another scroll in her magic grasp. "We've already encountered a few common ancestors but nothing that either of us would recognize!"

"What about in Canterlot? Isn't that the oldest city in Equestria? Probably would have records going back past the founding." Somnia raised a hoof questioningly.

"Whatcha doin'?" A voice yelled out from next to Twilight as she took another book from the shelf.

"Aaagh!" Twilight jumped back to face the pink party pony.

"'Aaagh!' yourself! But that doesn't answer my question, silly." Pinkie Pie giggled, pulling herself from the shelf.

"Just some genealogical research." Twilight stated, going back to looking through the pile she had already assembled.

"Ohhh..." She leaned in closer, whispering: "I don't know what that is."

"Genealogy is the study of family history. Y'know, where ponies come from and who they're related to." Spike clarified.

"Ooh, fascinating." She went over to a precariously stacked pile of scrolls next to Somnia.

"Maybe you should pick one from the..." Pinkie took a scroll close to the bottom, tower somehow still standing much to Twilight's confusion. "... top?"

"Uh-huh... Interesting..." Pinkie unrolled the massive scroll as she moved out of the room. Twilight and Somnia shrugged to each other right before the tower collapsed in a resounding: "WHAT?!"

"This is the most amazing thing ever!" Pinkie zoomed back into the library and hugged Twilight tightly. "Why didn't you tell me how amazing this is?! Genealogy is better than cotton candy on top of a fountain of chocolate!" She squee'd. "You'll never believe who it says I'm related to!"

"Oh, and who... would..." Twilight couldn't finish her question as Pinkie zoomed from the room. Somnia rolled the scroll back up, eventually getting to the end where Pinkie had stopped.

"What's it say?"

"It... might say 'Pie', but I can't tell." She examined the connections. "Oh, she may be distantly related to Applejack."

"I got to agree, Twi, we'll have better luck in Canterlot." Spike closed his book. "There's nothin' here."

Twilight tapped her hoof impatiently as she waited for the chariot to arrive. Princess Celestia was willing to open the restricted section of the Canterlot Library for her to browse and had sent a chariot to pick them up. Spike was sitting on a box of scrolls next to her that she had prepared to do cross-referencing and her daughter was flirting with the lieutenant off to the side. At least she thought it was flirting.

"Princess." Shield walked up next to her. "Dusty has agreed to stay behind to guard the library, so it'll be Dawn and I escorting you. We'll stay upstairs in the main section to keep an eye out for any suspicious ponies."

"Thank you, captain." Twilight squinted. Off in the distance she could barely make out the chariot making its way towards them. A couple of minutes later it touched down at the front of the library. They loaded the box and themselves onto the chariot, setting off for Canterlot. A half-hour later they arrived over the city, and within minutes they touched down in front of the library. Inside, Princess Celestia lead them over to the secret door, unlocking it with her magic to allow them entry.

Escorting them to the lower levels, Celestia pointed to different sections filling them in on the most likely locations for each of the texts before retreating to the back of the library to read something on her own. Twilight selected a few choice entries as she went, her two dependents doing the same in other sections.

The first thing she noticed was that some of the texts were written in a language she didn't understand. "Somnia, do you know how to read this?" She floated the book over to the filly, who gave a nod.

"Equinish script, or Excalia scitus."

Cyclic Verse, introduced by Excalion and I during pre-historic periods.

"What he said." She grabbed a book with her mouth and descended the ladder. Twilight and Spike followed close behind with their own selections. The three gathered in the center of the room, the Cyclic Verse texts were hoofed over to Somnia, the Old Ponish Twilight claimed for herself, and anything leftover was given to Spike.

After a couple of minutes, as Somnia was examining a scroll, she let out a giggle. "Find something?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, my brother's alias." She went over next to Twilight and pointed to a particular line.

"Nopony above them, four daughters, one son. You can see that two of the daughters are marked as belonging to a different dynasty and their mother is the same." She scrolled a bit downward to the remaining three. "This roughly translates to 'Gust Sparkle', and 'Star Swirl'. There's also 'Sombra' too, but that doesn't translate as well."

"Sombra?" She looked back up at their father's name. While she didn't understand it exactly, it probably roughly translated to what Celestia and Luna knew him as. The names of the regal sisters were also slightly different. 'Cadera' and 'Linu' in the later scribbles next to the Equinish script writing, written in Old Ponish. "They aren't..."

"No, it was a deliberate tactic by the 'king' to 'legitimize' himself." Celestia called out from across the room. "We are only tangentially related through the generations."

"And it's a filly, too." Somnia added. "My real name is Sombra Temperii. Somnia Temporus is what Celestia and Luna translated it as, but it isn't exact." She blinked a few times, a grin forming on her face. "He named his daughter after me."

"What was your brother's full name again?" Twilight asked, her next question already lined up.

"It translates as something like 'Nightflame Sparkle', but that first part might not be accurate." Somnia brought a hoof to her chin in thought.

"Nightflame... Sparkle." Twilight grabbed a few texts she brought from the library, sifting for one in particular. Pulling it out, she went up the lineage to the last member known. "Does either of his foals have a descendant by the name of 'Sparkle Flare'?"

The filly looked further down the scroll before walking back over to her pile to pick out another one. "Yup! Descended from Gust Sparkle!"

"And the old unicorn royalty is from Sombra?" She followed up.

"Yes." Celestia called out from across the room. "Princess Sombra was our half-sister. Her descendant, Princess Platinum, was an extremely distant relative. But no more distant than any other pony since Gust's lineage branched to encompass the remaining population."

"I'm..." Twilight took in what she just heard.

"The Mother of All Ponies. Or most ponies." Celestia corrected, walking over. "I think that sounds like a good title, don't you?"

"What?" Twilight turned to her curiously, still processing it.

"I shall make it so. Mother-Regent Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria, Mother of All Ponies, Princess of Ponyville, Element Bearer of Magic, Vanquisher of Nightmare Moon and the Spirit-of-Chaos Discord, Champion of Harmony, Matriarch of House Sparkle." She smirked. "It's getting long, but not nearly as long as mine."

"And Star Swirl?"

"The one and only." She placed a hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "Congratulations. You're directly related to every pony alive or dead since Gust's descendants encompassed them."

"How long is your title?" Somnia spoke up curious.

"Regent Princess Celestia of Equestria, Princess of the Sun, Princess of Canterlot, Regal Daughter of Queen Faustinia, Co-Chancellor of Pegasopolis, Archon of Earth, Her Graceful Radiance, etc etc." She waved a hoof dismissively. "It goes on for another couple of minutes. In writing, only the Regent Princess Celestia of Equestria, Princess of the Sun, Princess of Canterlot, and Regal Daughter of Queen Faustinia are included by a royal decree I signed into law after Luna's banishment."

"What about me?" The filly hopped up on the table.

"Queen-To-Be Princess Somnia Temporus of Equestria and the whole of Equus, Grand Councilor of Harmony, Survivor of the Great Fall of Excalicorn, Princess of the Harmonic Empire, Matriarch of House Excalion. It's pretty short right now, given you hadn't had much time to acquire titles."

"Still shorter than Twilight's." Spike pointed out.

"True." Celestia smiled over to him. "Sir Spike of House Sparkle, Champion of the Crystal Empire."

"Woah! I have a title too!" He got up from his seat. "Wait, sir?"

"It's a bit soon, but I believe that you would make an excellent Knight of Unicornia." Celestia giggled. "When you are older, and after you've been properly trained."

"Awesome!" He ran over to give the regal sister a hug. "I won't let you down."

"I doubt you will, you're going to be one of the two only members." She winked to him. "It would spice up the meetings with Prince Blueblood, though."

"Wait, hold on." Somnia shook her head. "How did you know--"

"You are a Grand Councillor?" Celestia answered, grinning to the filly. "A little birdy told me."

Of. Bucking. Course.

"A... little birdy?" Twilight narrowed her eyes. "A particular one-eyed crow?"

"Who knows?" Celestia shrugged, dismissing the question. "Are we finished here?"

Twilight took one last look through the scrolls before deciding that her research was sufficient. She wrote down several of the details onto her extra scrolls before following Celestia up the stairs. Rather than returning them to Ponyville, the chariot, along with Princess Celestia, were brought over to the castle. They went to a meeting room where Twilight saw Lord Fancy Pants reading a scroll across from Raven.

"Have you finished?" Celestia asked, moving up behind Fancy Pants.

"Almost, your majesty." He took another minute before floating the decree over to Celestia who promptly signed it.

"It's official. Princess Twilight Sparkle, congratulations on your new title!"

"Huh?" Celestia led the confused princess back out to the waiting chariot.

A little birdy told me... Twilight got up from where she sat, leaving her black feather quill on the table to go over to the door. "Captain? Can you come inside for a moment?" Her vision caught the crow from atop a roof, staring directly at them.

Shield entered and closed the door behind him. It was just the two of them in the library with Spike and Somnia out getting groceries. He waited for her to speak her piece.

"Have you seen a small crow flying around here before?"

"Yes, everyday in-fact." He raised a brow. "It likes flying to different perches. I assume it's somepony's pet with how frequent it's around here."

"What about outside of Ponyville?" Twilight stepped forward. "Or has it done anything suspicious?"

"Other than landing on my shoulder?" His brow wrinkled. "It's not a regular bird, is it?"

Twilight took a look to each of the windows, not seeing the corvid. Getting closer, she cast a bubble of silence and whispered for good measure. "Keep an eye on it. Celestia and Grar know who it is, but neither were willing to say anything. Somnia and Spike haven't really seen it either. Mention this to the other guards but don't let Somnia know until we figure out who is spying on us."

"Your wish is my command." He did a slight bow, using his own magic to break the bubble before heading back outside. She went back to work on the article she was writing for the Canterhorn Scientific Journal. Everypony should really know about their common lineage and the royal family. Rather than include the details about her siblings, she focused on her own lineage.

The first entry was Queen Gavelmede, a name that Somnia had given her to use to refer to her former mother, followed by herself, Princess Miracle Spark aka Princess Twilight Sparkle, the first child, and Queen Faustinia being put last along with the regal sisters. Between them she put a few notes stating that Queen Gavelmede did have other foals, but that they won't be discussed until more details are uncovered, although it was mostly to spare the backlash Cadance and Shining Armor would receive. First under herself was Gusty the Great, Princess Stellar Shimmer, it was unknown if she had any foals.

Then came Prince Nightflame Sparkle, the Royal-Consort of Queen Faustinia, who had the longest section detailing the different branches. It's a shame Star Swirl never had foals, but he was known as quite the recluse. She mused. The royal sisters were his juniors, being born thousands of years after the previous youngest, that being Star Swirl himself. The lineages of Gust Sparkle and Sombra were complicated, to say the least, with at least four different branches each. The three older foals had unknown mothers even after Twilight had asked Somnia, but she said the scroll didn't include the names of the mothers.

Finally, Somnia herself. No foals, at least not yet if she keeps bucking anypony she pleases, and the youngest of her own children. Twilight bit the tip of the feather, immediately regretting it when she discovered that the feather itself was also harder than steel. It felt like something was missing... Next to her name, in the box where her former husband was, she wrote down Prince Mystic Nightflight. Her quill flicked slightly as though she wanted to add something, but nothing immediately came to mind. Is there anything else missing?

Why did it feel like something really big was missing from it?

Dismissing the concern, she re-read the article, correcting a few mistakes before re-re-reading to make sure. All mothers and fathers accurate enough, given that she didn't know the names of most of them. Before Somnia had left, she made sure to confirm each of the pairings. Who was Twilight's original father? Somnia certainly didn't know, and she was around back in those days.

'Equestrian Royalty: An In-Depth Dive Into the Common Lineage of Equestia's Inhabitants and the Royal Family, by Princess Twilight Sparkle'

Putting it into an envelope, she got up and left for the post office. She expected there to be some concerns about the aunt-nephew descent of the regal sisters, but hopefully everything would be dismissable under the excuse that there were limited options. Either way, it was a good first step in the process of gaining acceptance for royal intramarrying, in spite of how much she found it disgusting.

After dropping it off at the post office, she pulled Dusty aside.

"Where's Somnia?" She whispered to her. Pressing a hoof to her ear, Dusty asked Shield where they were at.

"Sweet Apple Acres, behind the farmhouse on a hill. Says you can't miss them."

The two walked over to Sweet Apple Acres, and from the looks of it, nopony was home. Walking down the path behind the farmhouse, she spotted the filly and her bodyguard atop a hill. Getting closer, she could see Somnia looking at a clipboard, pencil in her mouth. The other two crusaders came running back up the hill as Twilight approached.

"So... who won?" Scootaloo panted out, catching her breath.

"Neither of you." Somnia mumbled out, spiting the pencil onto the clipboard. "It's a tie."

"What?! But that was so much..." Sweetie fell to the ground exhausted.

"Doesn't look like you got your cutie marks either." Shield pointed to their flanks.

"Eh..." Scootaloo laid down on the grass next to Sweetie. "Maybe we need Apple Bloom here?"

"You think your going to get synchronized cutie marks?" Somnia raised a brow at them. "Twins sometimes do, sometimes even disconnected ponies, but three connected cutie marks are pretty rare."

"My friends and I got ours at the same time." Twilight ruffled up Somnia's mane, letting her know that she was there and getting a brief hug.

"I got mine pretty late." Dusty sat down next to the fillies, both attentively listening. "A few of my friends were playing ponyhunt with me. I was the last one remaining when the hunter called out a truce. Apparently I had hid for over four hours." She giggled. "They wanted to make a deal: If I could catch them, then I would win. I know, I would have won anyways, but where's the fun in hiding when you can go from prey to predator?"

"What happened next?" Sweetie laid her head on her forelegs.

"I stalked them through the forest, keeping my eyes on them the entire time. They still had no clue if I had even heard them so they kept looking. Just as they sat down for a rest, I made my move. I jumped from the tree and wrapped my hooves around them. They seized up from an asthma attack before I could declare my victory. I managed to know the area like the back of my hoof so I was able to carry them back out of the forest to get help. Apparently at some point during all of that, I got my cutie mark." She cringed at the memory. "I also apparently had broken my leg from the fall. Didn't really know until I collapsed in-front of my dad."

"Your story is at least interesting." Shield quipped.

"Oh? I'm certain you got your cutie mark doing something interesting." Dusty pawed at her superior.

"Nah, just standing up to the school bully." He shrugged. "Beaten to within a hoof of my life, but I kept standing up to them. They asked me why I kept standing, tired from beating me down. I just told them I hated bullies. Bam! Cutie mark on my flank and a lifelong friend."

"Why was he hurting you?" Scootaloo got up and stretched.

"The colt thought I was an easy target. Sorta true. I was pretty scrawny as a colt. Wasn't until I hit late-puberty did I get so much muscle I could crack a coconut with my biceps." He chuckled, flexing a foreleg to show off the muscles. "He would go on to become a school teacher after doing his term in the guard. Nicest stallion you'd ever have the pleasure of teaching you."

"All in times of crisis..." Somnia muttered to herself, thinking back on what she observed before.

"What was that?" Twilight whispered back to her.

"Nothing, just thinking out loud." Somnia smiled, mind still conflicted about what to think about it. Two ponies with six stars in the guard and happen to be assigned to her? Sure, coincidences happen. Three? That's a pattern.

"Aww..." Sweetie cooed. "That was sweet. Did they ever bring it back up in conversation?"

"Yeah. Even earned their cutie mark when they were coaching me to build up my muscles. Always saw him as a gym teacher. Nope, math and physics." He gave a hearty laugh. "We both have each other to thank for our cutie marks. Still uses the story nowadays for troublesome students, says strength and purpose can come from a variety of sources. Which is why I want to stress to both of you not to worry about getting your cutie marks. They'll come from even in the most mundane of situations."

"But none of your stories are ordinary!" Sweetie pointed out. "Princess Twilight, you and all the other elements got yours at the same time when Rainbow Dash did her sonic rainboom, you guards got yours doing some great justice, and..." She cut herself off as her eyes found Somnia.

"And mine didn't come by choice." Somnia finished. "None of ours did."

Fate has a way of giving us all meaning. Even me, despite not ever being eligible for a cutie mark physically, I've fulfilled my own destiny. If I had a cutie mark, it would have led to that one experiment, for better or worse. Don't let anypony convince you that you can't achieve great things if you don't have a cutie mark, or what your cutie mark is.

You'll make your mark, and it will be all the more satisfying knowing it is true to who you are.

"Wonderfully said." Twilight lightly smiled at Somnia.

The two crusaders turned to each other, both mulling over what each of the ponies had said. "Thanks." Scootaloo replied, smiling genuinely to all of them.

"It's what we've all been trying to tell you the past couple of years." Twilight lifted Sweetie's head to face her.

"We're going to have to talk to Apple Bloom when she gets back, I guess." Sweetie giggled.

"Yeah. I kinda feel a bit bad we didn't realize it sooner." Scootaloo scratched the back of her neck embarrassed.

"You still had fun though." Somnia countered. "You're all still great friends. Don't let cutie marks come between you and spending time together, because one day you might not have as much time."

The two crusaders nodded to each other before bringing in Somnia, Twilight, Dusty, and Shield for a group hug.

Author's Note

Shorter chapter this time, I thought that was a high note to send off the chapter on. Honestly, I didn't plan for it to go the way it did. It produces some interesting possibilities for the timeline I had laid out somewhat but it'll be interesting to see where it goes from here.

Chapter 5: Forever Free

Therefore, it would be in the interests of Equestria if the would-be queen is protected by her own personal guard unit.

An interesting proposal, however I see some flaws in the implementation you outlined. Having this 'Queen's Guard' loyal only to her would be a mistake. I'm certain you can understand my caution surrounding her independence, especially given the potential threat she presents.

Your highness, if I may be direct: Either we allow its formation on our terms, or she will form it on her own. There is already one potential recruit that is willing to join, and they are an asset that we cannot recruit under normal circumstances. It would be best to have somepony on the inside who you can trust rather than to let her divorce herself from your influence.

Who would you suggest to join the Queen's Guard? Or is it merely a suggestion?

I already have somepony in mind. Myself.

"Somnia~"

"No."

"Come on~"

"I don't wanna."

"It's not that bad." Twilight floated the plate a little closer. "See?"

Looking up from the plate: "It's charcoal." She deadpanned.

"Just try it~"

"You first." The filly smirked at her mother. Twilight reluctantly used the fork to take a bite of her home-cooked meal, tears falling from her eyes before she spat it back onto the plate. "That good, huh?" Somnia sarcastically raised a brow.

"Okay, I'm getting pizza." Twilight got up from the table. "Don't go anywhere while I'm out, or you're grounded for another week and you have to eat that."

"That's abuse! I'm writing to Celestia about this!" She playfully teased while Twilight grabbed her saddlebags and left the library. Somnia picked up her book from the table to read a bit more of it. Since her grounding, Twilight had been constantly pushing schoolwork on her, not that she minded. At least it was something to do since Spike stopped practicing with her.

Her mom was starting to notice the change in dynamic between them, already suspicious of what exactly happened in the Crystal Empire. Somnia didn't have the nerve to tell her, she was already grounded for embarrassing her in front of everypony, and Spike kept himself busy, usually by helping Rarity.

A few minutes later, there was a knock at the door. Getting up, she proceeded to the door. "Library's closed."

Silence. Not a single peep as to who it was, but they certainly shifted a bit. The door handle jiggled as they tried opening the door, discovering it was locked. Somnia backed away. The hairs on her back stood up, although she didn't feel in danger. It felt... familiar. She then heard the bolt on the door unlock from the outside.

Opening the door slowly, menacing hunks of wood in the shape of a wolf's face peered into the room spotting the stunned filly. Entering fully into the library, the timber wolf closed the door behind it. Compared to a fully grown pony, it was huge, but to Somnia it was monstrous.

The queen returns. It bowed before her, it's eyes glowing a sickly green.

"I-Isirilas?" She breathily asked.

Your majesty, it is good to see you survived the scouring.

"Why are you here? How did you unlock the door?" She asked curiously.

Ponies have their uses. I've made deals to learn how to work with their contraptions in exchange for living, should I require that knowledge. I am proven correct in my wisdom.

Somnia walked up to them, giving them a few pets. "It's been so long. How have you been? How did you survive? What have you been up to?" She bombarded him with questions.

It has been hard. If Princess Stellar hadn't given me that gemstone, I would be dead right now. I'm afraid there aren't many of my kind left since the fall.

"What gemstone?" Somnia inquired, climbing onto the timber wolf's back.

I will show you when it is the right time, but not a moment sooner. I only wished to make sure it truly was you.

Who else would it be? Grar spoke up.

The changelings have tried to trick me, their failure being absolute. If the witch lived, I hope she suffers every moment she draws breath.

"Somepony tried hurting you?"

Constantly. The paths carved through my woods, the intruders looking for the shaman I allowed residence, they have no respect for the free-forests.

"I can talk to my mom about it. Maybe she can setup a wall, or something?"

Ponies can fly.

"Point taken." Somnia laid down on the back of the massive wolf, which moved over to the table.

You burnt wood? What is this for?

"It's not wood, it's supposed to be food. Mom isn't very good at cooking though." She giggled.

I will never understand your need to feed on specific things. Wood is plenty good for sustenance.

"Somnia?" A whisper from behind her carried an edge of terror. The filly sat up to see her mother standing at the door, pizza in her magical grasp, staring wide eyed at the timber wolf.

"Hey, mom!" She hopped down from the timber wolf. "What did you get?"

"Come on. Let's get the gu--"

Somnia trotted back up to the timber wolf fearlessly. "Mom, this is Isirilas! They invited themself inside!"

The wolf grabbed the plate in its jaws, turning to Twilight.

You didn't recognize me, yet the queen does. Have I passed from your memories, Princess Miracle Spark?

"Uh... What?" Twilight asked confused.

"Mom doesn't understand the Equinish script." Somnia filled in. "She's okay, I'll let her know to stay away from the forest."

Thank you, your majesty. I should be going before I cause more of a stir in town. The colossal wooden wolf moved back through the door, its pieces disconnecting to maximize the amount it could get through at a time. Twilight turned back to a smiling Somnia.

"So what did you get?"

"You... know them?"

"Yup!" The filly trotted up to her.

"How did they get inside?" Her expression shifted to suspicion. "Did you let them in?"

"Nope! They picked the lock!" She hopped up to try grabbing the pizzas. "Can we eat now?"

Twilight floated the pizzas over to the table, both of them sitting down to eat. Scratching her head, she was still trying to wrap her head around everything.

"Oh." Somnia swallowed her bite. "Isirilas would like ponies to stop going into the forest. They don't treat them kindly."

"I-I guess I could talk to the mayor about putting a few signs up." Twilight took a bite of her own pizza. "They picked the lock?"

"Yup!" The filly chomped down on another slice.

"They could have done that this entire time..." She came to a realization that if 'Isirilas' wanted to, they could've killed everypony in town while they slept. A frightening thought, but one that also perplexed her.

"Prob'ly." The filly said with a full mouth. Swallowing, she took her fourth slice. "They are nice to ponies that respect them though."

Shaking her head, Twilight focused on eating. They only had another two hours before the train left town for Canterlot. Grabbing her second slice, she saw Somnia take her fifth. "Hungry?"

"Mmm-hmm!" She noised.

Barely getting through her second slice, the filly grabbed her sixth, receiving Twilight's disapproving gaze. "Hey! I want that! You've already had five!"

The filly reluctantly hoofed over the slice. "I'm going to pack!" She grabbed the book next to her. "Done!"

Twilight shook her head as she finished the last slice. "Why don't you go over to see how Rarity is doing? She'll probably need some help."

With the brief look of uncertainty from Somnia, Twilight asked what was on her mind. "What happened between you and Spike?"

"He can tell you." She mumbled, getting up from the floor. "He's just being a colt."

"A colt? Not a brother?" Twilight raised a brow. "Somnia, what happened?"

"What does it matter? He'll get over it. Eventually." She trotted for the door. The handle was covered in Twilight's purple glow getting a wince out of Somnia, turning back to her mother.

"What happened?" She asked again, keeping her voice calm. "I promise I won't be mad."

"But you'll be disappointed, which is just as bad!" She countered.

"Somnia."

"We bucked while you were asleep!" She covered her mouth and closed her eyes, waiting for the backlash. A few hoof steps towards her. Then... a wing hug?

"I thought something happened. Did he..." She left it open ended, hoping for her daughter to fill it in.

"Did he what? Like it? Yeah, that's why he's so nervous around me!" Somnia cuddled into her mom. "I wasn't thinking and just went for it."

"You still have a lot to learn about colts." Twilight soothingly rubbed a hoof through the filly's mane. "You give it to them once, and suddenly they feel like they love you."

"What about you? Has a colt done something like that to you?" She looked up, hoping to get some advice.

"Not from what I remember." She admitted. "I've never actually done... that, before. At least since I was reborn."

"Then how do you know?"

Twilight sighed. "You were right. I've read those romance novels. I didn't want you thinking I can't handle stallions, especially since you are such a little devil." She booped Somnia on the nose getting a few giggles.

"I'll probably still try to set you up with somepony." She admitted with a smile. "I'm better with colts and stallions than you are."

"Watch it, or your going to get yourself in huge trouble one day. Let's go check on Spike. Maybe we can ease the tension a little by picking on him."

"I like that idea!"

"Pincushion!" Rarity called out, her dragon assistant appearing right at her side. "Thank you, Spikey-Wickey. You are such a gem to have around." She showered him in praise, hoping to improve his mood. He didn't want to say it, but the looks he gave Somnia back in the Crystal Empire and how much he was around to help since then told the story. Something happened between them.

The bell rung out from the front door as she sewed together the two fabrics. "Would you mind getting that, darling?"

"On it!" He rushed to the workroom door, immediately pausing upon seeing the main lobby. Rarity looked over and saw an angry Twilight next to an ashamed filly.

"Spike!" Twilight called out, making sure that the anger was clear. "We need to talk."

"T-Twilight, w-what are you--"

The two alicorns approached, pushing back Spike into the workroom. Twilight closed the door, taking a deep breath. "You don't mind, do you Rarity?"

"O-Of course not." She started moving towards the door, but was stopped by Twilight raising her hoof.

"I want you here for this." She turned her head, winking with the eye opposite Spike. Glancing down at Somnia, Rarity saw the hint of smile.

"Spike. You have a lot of explaining to do." Twilight turned her attention back to the dragon.

"I-I..." He tried thinking of an excuse before Twilight spoke up again.

"You didn't use any protection and got her pregnant!" Twilight stated with barely contained 'rage'. "She's just a filly for Celestia's sake!"

"S-She wanted me to finish inside! It's her fault!" He pointed at Somnia. Twilight blinked a few times, looking over to Somnia curiously.

"I kinda did." She nervously admitted, getting a groan from her mother.

"UGH! Would you two stop being perverts and admit that it was a mistake?"

"What. The. Buck?" Rarity mouthed, looking between the three of them. Spike stepped forward, hanging his head in shame.

"I-I'm sorry I got you pregnant. I'll- I'll take care of our foal, I promise. Dragon's honor."

Both Twilight and Somnia burst into laughter at the declaration, to the shock and confusion of both Spike and Rarity. The filly fell over having trouble breathing from how much she laughed. When both calmed their laughter down to a giggle, Twilight wiped the tears from her eyes. "You can't get a pony pregnant, Spike!"

"Huh?!" He jumped back surprised. "B-But--"

"It was an act! To get to stop being so skittish about it!" Twilight chuckled. "And to embarrass both of you in front of somepony else." She smiled to Rarity. "Thanks for staying around."

"Did they really...?" Rarity looked between the two, receiving a nod from Twilight.

"Somnia admitted she approached Spike about it." She turned to her number one assistant. "And he was too much of a colt to admit he fell for her after one casual tumble."

Somnia walked up to Spike, offering a hoof. "Siblings?"

He hesitated before shaking it. "Siblings."

"Gross." Rarity whined. "You two have sex, then just shake hooves like you're brother and sister?!"

All three of them shrugged. "Better than keeping tension going." Twilight responded. "Besides, they're not real siblings and they're not both ponies. I don't want to keep having to deal with this whenever they accidentally end up helping each other."

"Eck. Get out!" Rarity stomped her hoof. "Out!"

"See you on the train, Rarity!" All three laughed as they left her shop.

"You three seem to be a good mood." Fluttershy commented from beside Rainbow Dash. The train was on the final approach to Canterlot, meaning that it would only be another couple of minutes before they arrived at the station.

"We had a little fun. At our expense." Spike leaned back, putting an arm around Somnia.

"Yeah, and Rarity too. What did you two do that got her dresses in bunch?" Applejack chuckled.

"No, I'm not going to go through that again." Rarity put her hoof down. "That was gross, and both of you should feel ashamed!"

"We do! That's the best part!" Somnia cheerfully laughed. "We're back to how we were!"

"Whaaaat iiiiiissssss it?" Pinkie slide up beside Rarity. "Did they flood your toilet? Ooo! Did they put silly slime all over the ceiling?"

"Nah, nothing like that." Twilight giggled. "Just a little bonding exercise between family."

"How can you say that?" Rarity actually looked offended by the remark. "They- THAT, and then you all just act like nothing happened!"

"You're making a bigger deal about it than we are, Rarity." Spike pointed out.

"Hey, you were the one who couldn't keep your eyes off my tail!" Somnia jabbed him in the gut.

"You're the one who--"

"Alright you two, haven't you gone through enough embarrassment today?" Twilight interrupted them before they ended up spilling the beans to everypony in the train car.

"Aw, but it was just getting interesting!" Rainbow complained.

"Some things are better left unsaid. They learned their lesson, and won't forget it." Twilight winked to Rarity. "And neither will Rarity."

The fashionista gave a frustrated growl, going back to staring out the window while the others tried to futilely guess what they did. The train pulled into the station without a single guess even close. Guards were waiting for them at the terminal and escorted them to the carriage that took them to the castle. Upon exiting, Twilight noticed the increased guard presence on the walls. Then in the hallways. And the throne room.

"Princess Twilight!" Celestia stepped down from the throne, walking towards the group to give her faithful student a hug. "It is good to see you again." She turned to the two creatures next to her, the other elements having split off in the hallways to go setup in their rooms. "It's good to see they are finally getting along."

"Yeah, they still need to learn a few things, but I think this is a good start. Nopony got hurt and it all worked out in the end." Twilight looked up to her mentor, biting her lip. "What's with all the guards?"

"I'm afraid there has been a threat made against you and Somnia. Both of you are to remain on the castle grounds until the Summer Sun Celebration. We've got our best agents working on finding the ponies responsible."

"Should we call off the special display?" Twilight asked concerned. "I wouldn't want to ruin the ceremony for you and Luna, knowing how much it means to both of you."

"No, it should be settled by tomorrow afternoon." Celestia smiled to Somnia. "And we wouldn't want Equestria's youngest princess to miss out on such a momentous occasion."

"Do you really raise the sun?" She asked excitedly.

"Indeed I do. I've raised the sun for over a thousand years, and the moon as well for most of that time. I want to see the celebration transformed into a positive experience for all of Equestria, including my sister."

"It's wonderful that you are sharing the Summer Sun Celebration with Princess Luna." Twilight, Somnia, and Spike followed Princess Celestia back out into the hallway, headed for their rooms.

"She is just excited as I am. The ponies of Equestria need to see her as my equal, that night and day are two halves of the same whole." Celestia stopped as a guard approached.

"You majesties, may I borrow Princess Somnia for a few minutes?" He bowed before the three alicorns.

"Um, why?" Twilight asked curiously.

"I would like to introduce her to some other guards, your highness. We won't be long, just a quick trip to the barracks to introduce her to the other officers."

"I see nothing wrong with that. It's up to you, Twilight." Celestia gave a nod.

She examined the guard a moment longer. "What's your name? You look familiar."

"Captain Shattershield, your highness. I was on duty at your coronation."

"Very well, captain. Please return Somnia to my room when you are finished with your introductions." Twilight nodded to the guard as they led the filly away. Twilight wasn't exactly enthusiastic about leaving her alone but--

"This way." Celestia led Twilight down the hallways, not turning towards the royal suites like she expected, but instead outside to a waiting chariot. "There is something I would like to show you."

"You two have fun, I'm going to go rest for the busy day tomorrow. I missed the last big Summer Sun Celebration party, and I'm not missing another." Spike declared, returning inside as the chariot set off with both alicorns.

The captain knocked on the door four times and waited. "Enter!" A muffled voice called out. The two entered, the captain closing it behind Somnia. Gathered in the room were six other ponies, two mares and four stallions, of which two were in lunar guard armor and one in solar guard armor. For a third time, Somnia had to readjust her eyes on the Lunar Guard stallion, his own eyes widening slightly as he looked her over.

"Captains, this is the filly the princesses have been fawning over." Shattershield stood at attention, positioned right between Somnia and the door. The filly nervously looked to the captains that eyed her suspiciously.

"Seriously?" Another royal guard captain looked up to Shattershield incredulously. "I wasn't expecting a literal filly!"

"Show her some respect. She's a princess too." The lunar guard mare eyed both of the captains. "One day, we may be taking orders from her."

The Solar Guard captain scoffed. "Yeah, right. Maybe you castle guards, but I'm sworn to Her Radiance, Princess Celestia."

"You searched for her just like we did." The lunar guard retorted. "I even remember you whining all about having to search the forests of Equestria only to be miffed when she arrived in Ponyville."

The solar guard stepped forward towards the filly. He towered over her as she shrunk down to the floor. "If the princesses expect us to take orders from a foal barely done sucking their own hooves, forget it! Tell her we don't take orders from wanna-be royals. When she has her coronation, we can talk, but until then we're getting back to our duties." The guard pushed Shattershield aside, followed by two of the royal guard captains.

"Bastards." The lunar guard captain swore once they left.

"Princess Somnia, right? We've heard rumors about you from the other guards, but didn't know if you were just a joke or actually real." The other royal guard mare smiled at the filly. "Shatterbrains here wouldn't shut-up about how you managed to find a changeling spy on your own. Pretty impressive, for a filly."

"Yeah, and something about giving the princesses a headache." The other lunar guard snickered.

"She's why they've been in such a bad mood? Seriously? What could she have done?" The lunar guard mare smirked at her companion.

"Beats me." He shrugged. "Only that they have been pissy ever since Princess Twilight got her wings. Our Princess of the Night hasn't exactly been subtle, if you actually would pay attention while on duty."

"Princess Celestia has been the same. She's been spending all her free time with Raven couped up in her private study." The royal guard added. "Have you seen or heard anything, Shattershield?"

"Not that I'm allowed to say." He responded, still standing at attention. "You both are correct that Princesses Celestia and Luna have been busy. There are big changes coming down the pipeline. I don't know what, but this filly's the reason for them."

"Guess I am right." The lunar mare sat back in her seat. "We WILL be taking orders from her sooner than her coronation."

"Better get it of the way." The other lunar guard stood at attention followed by the other two. "Captain Broken Dawn of the Lunar Guard Celestial Protection Division, your majesty."

"Captain Angel Scythe of the Lunar Guard Night Operations Division, your highness." The lunar guard mare bowed.

"Captain Pansy of the Royal Guard Palace Detail, reporting in!" The royal guard mare saluted.

"Captain Shattershield, captain of the Princess Protection Detail." The captain behind her added. "You probably already guessed that though."

Somnia cleared her throat, giving her best attempt at a regal stance. "Thank you, captains. I don't know what is going to happen, but I'm glad I can count on you to do your duties in spite of your own feelings on me."

"Of course, it's our job." Captain Broken Dawn smiled a bit too widely, clearing his throat a bit before adding: "Now I got to get the guards up. Probably won't see much of me during the day, I'm mostly on night patrol."

"And we need to get going too." Captains Pansy and Angel Scythe bowed briefly before leaving.

"Let's get you back to your room. Princess Twilight is probably worried sick about you." Shattershield led her back through into the hallways towards the royal suites.

"Why didn't you tell me about this before?!" Twilight turned in circles looking at the shelves upon shelves of ancient texts.

"Didn't believe it would be helpful. However, if you would like me to give you a method of entering anytime you wish, I can speak to Luna." Celestia sat back on her chair watching her student in amusement. The Canterlot Library Restricted Section contained the most ancient of texts in Equestria, some predating the foundation. It was here that she and her sister first found their mother's journal and the secrets within. Much of the texts were written in Old Ponish, although a few were written in languages even she didn't know.

"This is a dream come true!" The student cantered from shelf to shelf, looking over the texts excitedly. "Ancient scrolls and books lost to history! Thank you so much for this!" Twilight galloped over and gave Celestia a tight hug while squealing like a filly.

"I'll let Luna know." Celestia squeezed out. "We should probably be returning to the castle. Captain Shattershield should be finishing his introductions."

"Oh, right! Yeah, let's go!" Twilight took one last good look at the shelves, a grin plastered on her face, before heading back up the old stone spiral staircase.

The two of them took the chariot back to the castle, on the way Princess Celestia ordered the chariot to land briefly so that she could lower the sun and admire the birds, then they were on their way again. Once at the castle, the two princesses walked back to the royal suites, guards saluting as they passed by.

"I hope you sleep well, Twilight. I will be by in the morning to bring you down for breakfast." Celestia gave her one last hug before heading off in the direction of her own room. Calmly opening the door, Twilight's nose was hit with the smell of smoke, although none seemed to be on the ceiling.

Balancing atop a makeshift ladder of books was Somnia, reaching for the highest shelf with a pillow case in her hoof and a nervous Spike trying to hold her steady.

"What in Equestria happened in here?" Twilight asked, closing the door behind her. Both slowly turned to look at Twilight.

"It's not my fault!" They said at the same time.

"As you can see, your highness, it is a justified adjustment to the tax code."

Princess Celestia considered it a moment, recalling precisely what it was that they made their fortune on. "Lord Hufflebluff, didn't your father take over a steelworks?"

The noble shifted a bit uncomfortably. "Uhh, yes, your highness. It was a minor acquisition."

"And there is no ulterior motive to reducing taxes on category two industries?" She raised an eyebrow suspiciously.

"Of course not, your highness. My intentions are completely in the interests of Equestria!"

"While you certainly made a convincing case for the tax reduction, I simply cannot in good conscious go through with the proposal."

"But your maje--"

"Moreover, there is no urgent need for expansion within the category two industries without a subsequent expansion of category one operations. I'm afraid that unless a need arises to increase industrialization, it isn't in the interests of ponies or Equestria."

"Please reconsider."

"I have, all the other times you, your father, and your sisters have approached me about this. Is there anything else you wished to discuss with me?"

The noble held his tongue. "No, that was all, your majesty." He bowed before promptly turning to leave the room. Once the guards had closed the doors behind him, Celestia sat back in her throne and sighed.

"Is it always this boring?" Somnia asked from the cushion next to her throne.

"Boring, frustrating, sometimes infuriating. But you will have to deal with all kinds of requests when you are queen." Celestia tiredly smiled down the the filly. "I haven't had a good court session in over ten years."

"Why do this then if they are just going to be greedy about everything?"

"Because they may have a good suggestion. Everypony has their own ideas about how things should be run, it is up to us to determine what is justified or to implement. You will get used to making these sorts of decisions." Celestia sat back up, turning over to Raven. "What's next on the agenda?"

She flipped the page on her clipboard. "A report from the University of Canterlot regarding the recent magical surge."

"Send them in." Celestia called out to the guards on the other side of the throne room. She leaned over to Somnia to whisper down to her. "Let me handle this. I know you know what happened, but it is best if everypony else didn't know quite yet."

"Okay." She whispered back as a mare with a stack of papers in her magic grip approached the throne.

"Your majesty." She bowed. "I'm Professor Itch from the University of Canterlot, I wished to speak with you regarding the recent magical outburst."

"Welcome, professor. Please, enlighten me on what you have discovered." Celestia smiled down to her.

"Of course, your highness." She took a few papers from the top of the pile, clearing her throat. "After cross-referencing the magical outburst centered in the town of Ponyville, we have come to the conclusion that it either is an unknown form of magic similar to Discord's chaos magic that managed to simultaneously influence every detector in and out of Equestria, or a creature with unimaginable magical strength. Our colleagues at the Mi Amore University in the Crystal Empire believe the activation of the Crystal Heart indicates an reflexive defense by the artifact to protect the empire against an external threat."

"I see." Celestia frowned down to Somnia briefly. "Please continue."

"A fellow professor of mine traveled to Mount Aris and was present when the burst occurred. They received similarly worrying readings at that distance, meaning that the original estimates were indeed accurate within a few hundred swirls. Therefore, the university research council wishes to construct a device in order to track down such a magic source so that it may be contained before it causes problems."

Celestia gave a few seconds before responding. "I'm sorry, but that won't be necessary. The E.U.P. has already contained the anomaly and it is under close study. I'm afraid that any more details are classified at this time. Let me assure you, it doesn't present a threat to ponies or Equestria."

"But your highness, is the E.U.P. equipped to deal with such a magically potent creature? It surpasses even the Elements of Harmony if the estimates are to be believed at face value."

"If." Celestia replied. "If they can be believed. While I cannot provide anymore details, I will reiterate that the threat is contained. There is nothing to worry about."

The researcher scrunched up her face. "There's more." She extracted a few more papers from her pile. "With the ascension of Princess Twilight, there have been rumors of a fifth alicorn. A few students traveled to Ponyville to investigate the reports and discovered that the rumors were true!" She floated a picture over to the princess. Taking a brief look at it, Celestia giggled, hoofing it down to Somnia.

It was when she and the crusaders first talked in front of Sugar Cube Corner. The researcher continued. "I asked them to interview the source of the image, and it turns out to have come from a local paper made by the fillies and colts. They claimed that a royal guard had come to them to implement an information blacklist."

"The Foal Free Press." Somnia filled in. The researcher tilted her head at Celestia curiously.

"Is somepony else next to you?"

Somnia stood up, surprising of the researcher. "Y-You!"

"As you can see, I am well aware of the presence of a fifth alicorn." Celestia smiled down to her. "And it was by the Sensitive Information Containment Act that I authorized the concealment of information related to Princess Somnia. As for your other concerns regarding the magical burst, I would kindly ask that you cease your investigation into its origin. The E.U.P. and Royal Guard have the situation well handled."

"O-Of course, your majesty." She bowed. "I'm so sorry for wasting your time."

"It's alright. It's a nice break from the usual visitors." The professor trotted back to the doors with their stack of papers. Once they left, Celestia turned to Somnia. "It won't be long before Luna and I introduce you to Equestria. I'm hoping to hold a press conference to answer any questions related to you. Hopefully your mother can help out with the organizing following the Summer Sun Celebration."

"Why not just tell them? It's not like its much of a secret in Ponyville anymore." The filly asked.

Celestia sighed. "It is better for the government to be on-top of these sorts of things. A new princess appearing before either myself or my sister could comment on them would cause a stir discussing the possible existence of other alicorns. This way we can prevent our authority weakening."

"But they'll know eventually!" Somnia rolled over onto her back. "And you can handle it! You can raise the sun and spent a thousand years in these boring meetings!"

"Somnia, certain amounts of subtlety are needed for things the government does. While I can deal with the backlash, and Equestria will get used to it, I don't want to cause unnecessary problems from arising. If we were to immediately come out to reveal you, the royal guards and nobility would have there own questions that they might pursue the answer to on their own. I've already had to answer questions about the rumors. Now that your mother's coronation is over, we can proceed with putting you in front of ponies."

Somnia considered it for a minute while Celestia checked with Raven about the next pony. It made sense, no need to cause a problem that you would need to fix if you could avoid the problem altogether. Even so, directly approaching problems often did have its uses to avoid prolonging issues. Her mind trailed back to the prank she and her mom pulled on Spike. While they could have slowly gotten over the issue, a single confrontation did end up dealing with it faster.

Another noble trotted up to the throne, requesting something Somnia was only half-listening to. There were a myriad of stories related to Queen Gavelmede and how she handled problems. Her direct approach was often more brutal than Celestia, resulting in a high number of collateral damage and executions, but solved the problem immediately and discouraged others from doing the same.

Celestia rules by respect, while the old queen ruled by fear. Is it better to be respected or feared? Luna had mentioned this exact situation at the Princess Summit. Building up both would be the hard, but could be a worthwhile endeavor for an aspiring leader. But can you respect somepony and fear them without some form of disconnect? Can they respect you in turn for fearing them?

"It is my privilege under the Treaty of Earth!" The noble finished their thoughts.

"I cannot allow you to simply not- Somnia? Where are you going?" Celestia called after the filly as she walked down the steps. "We're not finished yet!"

"Bored." She stated, walking right up to the noble. "You will pay your employees what they deserve."

"And who is this?" The noble glared at Celestia. "Who's she to give me orders?"

"I'm Princess Somnia Temporus, and I'm not going to say it again. You will pay your employees for their work, or I will have the guards force you to work the castle gardens until you learn that hard work done in service to another deserves reward."

"Somnia! Come back up here!" Celestia called down to the filly who didn't budge. "I'm so sorry, Lord Trotter, she's still learning to behave regally."

"Why have I not heard of a fifth princess?" He narrowed his eyes. "The Noble's Council should have been made aware immediately!"

"Somnia, please come back up. You've made your threat, now please leave them be." The filly gave one last glare at the noble before walking right past him towards the door. "Somnia..." Celestia facehoofed.

Going out into the hallways, she made her way in the general direction of the barracks. There was somepony she wanted to see. Marching right up to the barracks entrance, the guards looked to each other confused.

"Let me in! I want to see Captain Shattershield!" She demanded.

"I'm sorry, but we do not allow civilians to enter into the royal guard compound without proper authorization from a princess."

"I am a princess, now let me in!"

The guard glared at her. "Listen, filly, I don't know who you are and I haven't heard about there being a fifth princess. Go back to your parents before you get in trouble."

Somnia stood as tall as she could. "My mom is Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria, I am her daughter Princess Somnia Temporus of Equestria, and I--"

"Should we throw her in a cell for a few minutes?" The other guard chuckled.

"Hmm... Maybe if she doesn't go away."

"Hey! I'm--"

"Guards! What is going on here?" A voice from the side brought both guards back into their stoic stances.

"Captain! This filly is requesting entrance into the barracks to see you, sir!" Captain Shattershield approached from the side in their captain's armor, looking both guards up and down.

"Do you even know who she is?" He asked seriously.

"No, sir!" The guard responded.

"Then what were you just saying to her?"

"Sir, we were deliberating on performing a minor disciplinary procedure for her behavior, sir!"

"What? You her daddy or something?" The captain got right into the face of the other stallion. "Knocked up somepony at a party and left them to raise your bastard?"

"Sir, no, sir!"

"Honestly, private, it wouldn't surprise me if you had a hundred bastards running around Equestria callin' you their daddy." He got out of the way of the guard and Somnia. "Apologize to the filly!"

"Sorry for threatening to throw you in a cell, ma'am!"

"I don't believe you are being honest, private!" The captain gave a devilish smile. "Apologize again, like you mean it! She's not some random civvie or your superior officer, she's a Tartarus-damned Princess of Equestria!"

Both guards froze in place, realizing the mistake they made. The captain didn't even bother waiting for their response. "Open the doors, privates!"

Without hesitation, Somnia followed the captain in the barracks, proceeding to the officer quarters. Once they had gotten inside the captain's office/sleeping quarters, he took off his helmet and sat down. "Damn rookies think they know everything! Now what would you like to discuss?"

"I wanted to ask you about getting on the good side of those other captains, but now I want to know more about the royal guard and how it works." She took a seat opposite him. "Clearly they don't like me."

"No, and I wouldn't expect the older members to treat you with anything other than the most basic respect." He opened a drawer, taking out a bottle. "Want some?"

"What is it?"

"Non-alcoholic cider from Appleloosa." He took out two glasses, pouring into one before waiting for her answer.

"Uh, sure." He poured her a glass and slide it over.

"Ya wanna know about the guard, eh?" He took a gulp of the cider, half-emptying his cup and giving a relieved sigh. "What do you wanna know?"

She leaned forward, picking up her glass in her hoof to take a sip. "Everything."

Twilight opened the door to her room, her faithful assistant following close behind with the massive checklist.

"Check, check, check, check, and... check! Huh, whaddaya know? We're way ahead of schedule! I credit your extremely competent- Princess Celestia!"

"Huh? But she only provided the list. It was us who--" Twilight turned to follow Spike's gaze seeing Princess Celestia sitting at a table sipping tea, alone. "Princess!" Twilight bowed.

"No need for that now, Princess Twilight." Celestia stood up from her seat, a tired smile on here face.

"Sorry".

With a giggle: "No need to apologize."

"Sorry!" Twilight nervously smiled to her mentor, taking a quick look around the room. All the beds were neatly made, no lumps to indicate a hiding filly. "How was your time with Somnia?"

The princess frowned. "She walked out on me. I sent a guard to track her down, but it seems she made other plans."

"Other plans? But wasn't she supposed to spend the rest of the day with you?"

"She seems to have other interests." Celestia chuckled. "That's also why she won't be sleeping with you tonight."

"Huh? Where is she then? I should have been--"

"I know. You can go down the barracks to speak with her, if you would like."

"The... barracks?" Twilight was thoroughly confused. "She's sleeping in the guard barracks?"

"She wanted to experience what things were like in the royal guard. I tried convincing her to come back to the throne room, but she was adamant."

"Well she can't stay there forever. We leave in two days, and I intend to take her back to Ponyville." Twilight rolled her eyes, heading over to her bed.

"I know you do, and so does she. I would actually like to talk to you about that." Celestia took a seat on the side of Twilight's bed. "It might be a good idea to let her pursue her interests while simultaneously showing her how to be a leader. If she likes serving with the guard, we can dress her up in some armor to 'station' her in the throne room while I hold court. Completely unofficial, of course."

"She's pretty good with a sword." Spike added, tucking away the list into the dresser. "Only time I've ever seen her that focused on something that wasn't a book."

Twilight brought a hoof to her chin in thought. It was worth trying, since clearly more traditional methods weren't working as much. All the books she gave Somnia to read she wasn't interested in, but books on the sciences and adventure novels she gleefully accepted to practice reading with.

"Yeah, okay. As long as she doesn't get hurt."

Celestia giggled. "You should probably go down to the barracks then to stop her."

Realizing what Celestia meant, Twilight quickly rushed from her room, stopping briefly to yell back to Spike: "Go over the checklist one more time while I'm gone!"

Making her way down to the guard barracks, Twilight was let in by two very nervous looking privates. She proceeded towards the general troop quarters, hoping to run into an officer. A lieutenant proceeded down the hallway, saluting to Twilight.

"Princess Twilight! To what do we owe the pleasure?"

"Where's Somnia?" She hastily asked, much to the officer's confusion.

"I'm sorry, but I don't recognize the name. Are they a guard?"

"Aspiring to b- Where's the training grounds?" Twilight asked seriously, realizing that the filly probably would be with the other recruits to train.

"Across the compound, your highness." The lieutenant stood to the side, letting Twilight rush past. Making her way back outside, Twilight saw the trainees standing in formation, the drill sergeant looking over them before they turned in for the night. In the second row she spotted the filly standing at attention. Considering the lack of conflict in Equestria, there were only two rows of recruits, numbering twelve in total.

Calmly trotting over, she could see how tired to recruits were. The small black crow was watching from the barracks roof as the drill sergeant yelled out to them: "Your display today was pathetic, maggots. I expect you to be up nice and early tomorrow morning for more training. I don't care if you are used to nice cloud beds or sleeping in to noon, I expect you to be up and at attention before sunrise. Dismissed!" She saluted to the recruits who dispersed after she turned to head back to the officer quarters.

"Princess Twilight! What brings you down to the maggot-pen?"

"I'm looking for somepony. Or rather, some filly." She eyed the sergeant. "How was she?"

"Weak, but determined. Gotta treat her like an earth pony, but even then she isn't as strong." She rubbed the back of her neck. "Captain's orders, but I've been trying to go easy on her given her age. Did you give the order?"

"No, she did." Twilight shook her head. "I swear, she gets worse every day."

The sergeant took off her hat, chuckling. "Time in the guard will straighten her out, when she's old enough."

"She can't join the guard." Twilight admitted. "She's supposed to be learning how to rule Equestria."

"So she is a princess?" She laughed, motioning for Twilight to follow her to the barracks. "Thought so. Alicorn, and all that. I didn't know there was a fifth alicorn, at least not for certain."

"Did she end up hurting herself?" Twilight asked concerned.

"Other than some bruises from when she fell off the wall, nah. Probably will be feeling everything in the morning like the other recruits."

"That's fine. She has gotten bruises before." The sergeant slammed open the door of the training barracks. The recruits being startled at the sudden loud noise.

"ATTEN-TION!" She called out, all the ponies standing at attention, a few exiting the showers still soaking wet. Among them was Somnia, dripping all over the floor. "We have a visitor, recruits!"

Twilight entered into the barracks, looking the recruits up and down and suppressing a smile as she made her way closer to her daughter. Stopping in front of the filly, Twilight examined her critically.

"What are you doing here? The guard doesn't let in foals." She tried her best to sound intimidating.

"I'm Somnia Temporus, ma'am!" She shouted back. "I want to learn discipline, ma'am!"

"You haven't done a very good job so far." Twilight walked around the filly. "I bet your mother is fed up with having to put up with your antics."

"I wouldn't know, ma'am!"

"Oh?" Twilight got down to eye level. "And what makes you think that you will learn discipline by training with the royal guard?"

"My brother was the most disciplined pony I knew, ma'am! And Captain Entropis shouldn't have been a guard, ma'am. He was too unpredictable, and eventually left his troops to die." She held back a sniffle. "I don't want to be like him. I want to be a good leader. I want to know what it's like to be disciplined."

"You think you will learn leadership here?" Twilight could see the tears forming in Somnia's eyes, her own expression softening.

"I don't want to be like my grandma..." She sniffled, a tear running down her cheek.

Twilight got down onto the floor to give her a hug. "It's alright. You won't be like her." She didn't know much of how the previous queen was, but from what little Somnia had shared it didn't sound good. "I'll make sure of that."

"P-Please let me learn from them. I-I want to know what its like for these ponies." She whispered to her mother.

"I'm sorry, but you are too young right now. Maybe in a few years I can enroll you in the scouts, but you aren't old enough for this training to be healthy. I can get you somepony to train you at your own pace, how does that sound?" She wiped the tears from Somnia who gave a weak smile.

"I-I would like that. Thank you!" She hugged her mother. Looking over her shoulder, the sergeant was silently cooing at the display, and a few of the recruits were also smiling.

"Let's head back to the room. I'm sure the bed there is comfier than these beds."

Chapter 8: Devotion

Do you know what this conference is about? My contact at the castle has been very hush-hush about everything.

Probably going to address the magical burst. That couldn't have been natural!

Or the sightings of a fifth alicorn.

Yeah, right. And it just happens to coincide with Princess Twilight's ascension by a few days? Get real.

I'm serious! I've seen the pictures from Ponyville. There's this filly that--

A filly? A literal foal? Now you're just making stuff up!

I'm not messing around! There's a fifth alicorn!

Wanna bet?

"Who's next on the agenda?" Princess Celestia asked down to Raven who stood by patiently.

Flipping over the page: "Count Greenfields from Machintosh Hills. They wish to discuss funding for a defensive project".

"Very well. Send them in." The princess yelled out to the guards next to the doorway.

"How are you doing down there?" Twilight smiled down to her trusty bodyguard standing at attention at the base of the throne.

"Can't complain, your highness." She replied, shuffling onto another hoof to alleviate some of the discomfort.

The count trotted forward, eyeing the unusual pony in guard armor but choosing to ignore her. "Your majesties." He bowed.

"You wished to discuss additional funding, Count Greenfields?" Celestia gently smiled down to the noble, signalling for him to make his case.

"Of course." He stood straight, projecting his professionalism and status. "We've come under attack by diamond dogs and dragons seeking our mountain's riches. I wish to use the funding to construct defenses." He hoofed Raven a few papers which Celestia floated over to herself.

Frowning at what she read, she showed it to Twilight before commenting: "This is quite the expenditure."

"I would like to have a wall built around the town and watchtowers to be positioned at high elevations for an early warning. This will require an expansion of the local barracks to facilitate more royal guards."

"Is that all it's for?" Twilight asked suspiciously. "It shouldn't cost this much to set up."

"We are isolated from most of Equestria. The transportation costs alone are nearly half of the total."

Celestia sat back. "And how would you go about affording the additional guard presence?"

"Our mountain is rich in metals and gemstones. Both the diamond dogs and dragons want these resources. Estimated production from the Diamondhoof Corporation suggest it will pay for nearly twice the cost of the additional guards, but only if it's operations continue with minimal disruptions."

"May I speak, your majesties?" The guardsmare spoke up.

"Do you have a suggestion, 'Private' Somnia?" The regal sister giggled. The entire display was ridiculous to anypony entering, but it was effective at keeping the filly on task.

"The diamond dogs are excellent miners and don't normally attack unless there is profit to be made. In exchange for some of the excess profits, they could assist with building the defenses against the dragons."

Celestia leaned down and whispered to her former student. "It's exactly what I was thinking."

"Your majesties, the diamond dogs cannot be trusted within our town!" The noble retorted. "What few come into town always manage to get drunk, causing nearly every public disturbance we have on record!"

"Private, do you have an idea on how to handle that issue?" Twilight asked.

"I'm afraid not, your majesty."

Celestia deliberated it for a moment with Twilight before addressing the noble. "Count Greenfields, I would like you to reach out to the diamond dogs and the Diamondhoof Corporation with an offer. In exchange for a cut of the profits from the mines, they are to assist with building the defenses of the town. Diamondhoof will provide supervisors to make sure the diamond dogs are keeping their end of the bargain. Relocating the town tavern closer to the mines will alleviate your other concern about public disturbances and the additional guards will help deal with any drunken dogs that wander into town."

The noble brought a hoof to their chin as they considered it, warily replying: "Of course, your highness. Thank you." Bowing before leaving the throne room.

"Private, please come up to the throne." Celestia commanded, getting the filly to march up the steps to them.

"Yes, your highness?" She stood at attention, awaiting further instructions to the amusement of both princesses.

"At ease." Celestia smiled down to her. "I would just like to say that you made a good suggestion. Did the diamond dogs cause many issues in Excalicorn?"

"On occasion. They were kept in line by being provided autonomy in exchange for metals they extracted. Prince Nightshade arranged the agreement, and it kept the peace even after their death."

Both princesses glanced to each other, Twilight asking the question. "Prince Nightshade?"

"My uncle." She shuffled a bit, a few jingles coming from her armor. "He was killed not long before I was born."

"That would explain why my mother never wrote about them." Celestia nodded. "That was all, private."

With a nod, Somnia marched back down into position at the base of the throne. Celestia regarded her assistant: "How many more are there for the day?"

Quickly checking the list, Raven replied: "That was the last of the nobles."

Celestia nodded. "Guards, can you check for anypony else?" While she waited for confirmation from the guards, she leaned down to whisper to Twilight. "You don't need to be here for this."

"I want to. I'm still new to being a Princess of Equestria. It couldn't hurt to learn from you directly." She cast a quick glance at the filly. "And I wanted to see how she would do with her new post."

"Your majesties!" The guard called out from the doors. "A few additional ponies have arrived to seek an audience."

"Very well. Let the first one in." She called out, retaking her regal posture. To her surprise, two thestrals entered through the large double doors. It wasn't often she got thestrals during the day court. Normally Luna would address them, being predisposed to the night. Twilight had to do a double take to make sure she was seeing them correctly. Different parts of her fought against one another for dominance. On one hoof, she wanted nothing more than for them to leave, but another part wanted them to stay. Badly.

Unbeknownst to either of the princesses atop the throne, Somnia was having trouble breathing as she stared wide eyed at the two approaching ponies, both of which also curiously looking at her seemingly with equally conflicted emotions. They're alive...

"Your majesties." The adult thestral with a dark purple mane briefly bowed, his eyes settling a bit longer on Twilight before he continued. "My name is Duskwing, and this is my nephew Nightwind. We've come from Hollow Shades to petition the monarchy to alleviate the woes of the thestrals."

The elder princess nodded, motioning for them to continue.

"The state of poverty in our communities is unacceptable for an Equestria that cares about its citizens. We are unable to receive funding to repair the sorry-state of our buildings. My own home has a room exposed to the open air because we didn't have enough wood to repair the wall from nearly a thousand years ago. I am also in charge of organizing the hunting teams, as we can't afford enough food for everypony in the town. We are spat at when we walk the streets of the large cities during the day and feared at night by other ponies.

"I would like for the monarchs of Equestria to take us seriously. We've been mistreated long enough and won't stand for it anymore!"

Celestia leaned forward, her expression serious yet saddened. "I'm sorry for the conditions you have to live in. All proposals for budget changes have to go through the Noble's Council before they are approved. If they agree to increas--"

"That's not enough!" He stepped forward aggressively. "Our Princess of the Night tried that and it failed, like it always does! I demand action! Not more meaningless promises!"

"Unfortunately, it isn't that easy." Celestia winced. She was used to ponies cutting her off, but usually they weren't so forward. "I've listened to their arguments against my sister's reforms, and I have to agree with them. They could be construed as favoritism towards the thestrals."

"So you're just going to let us suffer?" He stomped a hoof. "Like you have the past thousand years?"

While the adults were arguing, Somnia motioned over the colt accompanying Duskwing. "Hi, I'm Somnia."

"Um, should you be talking with me." He glanced back up at the princesses. "You're in the guard, aren't you?"

"No, this is just for show." She giggled. "Your name is Nightwind?"

"Yeah. My uncle couldn't afford a foalsitter, so he brought me along."

"You know, your uncle is a pretty great stallion." She grinned to the older pony that kept arguing with Celestia. "He cares a lot about the batponies."

"And he won't shut up about it either." The colt groaned.

"Somnia!" Twilight yelled down to the filly, startling her from her conversation. "You're supposed to be on duty."

"I am on duty!" She faced her mother proudly. "I'm doing my royal duty."

"I really am sorry, Mr.Duskwing. My sister's heart aches for your kind--"

"But yours doesn't!" He spat back. "You sit upon your throne feeling so high-and-mighty about serving the ponies of Equestria while completely ignoring us!"

"You're out of line!" Twilight replied. "All of the princesses care about the plight of the batponies--"

"You've done nothing about us! The only princess that seems to care is the Mistress of Dreams!"

"I care!" Somnia spoke up. "Batponies are ponies like any others!"

"Somnia! Get up here!" Her mother demanded.

"No!" The filly objected. "They deserve to receive support if other ponies get the same thing!"

"Who's this?" Duskwing motioned to the filly. "Is she just an exceptionally short mare? Or are you resorting to foal soldiers?"

"I'm Princess Somni--"

"Last chance, missy!" Twilight warned.

"I'm Princess Somnia Temporus, and I won't let you be mistreated by other ponies anymore!" She declared.

Duskwing shrugged. "Never heard of you."

"That's it!" Twilight lifted Somnia in her magic, floating her up to the thrones.

"Hey!" The filly fussed, struggling against her mother's magical grasp. "I was doing my royal duty!"

The thestral stallion took another step forward, Captain Shattershield stepping from the side to block his approach. "This is exactly what I was talking about! Mothers hide their foals from us, looking at us like we're predators seeking a quick snack! Clearly, Princess Twilight believes the same things that everypony else does!"

"I never--" Twilight was cut-off as the thestral physically spit onto the floor. She winced at the disgusted expression on the thestral's face, her chest tightening up.

"You are all talk and no action! I'm glad to see your daughter has gone against the prejudice you've tried brainwashing her with!"

"Duskwing of Hollow Shades!" Celestia extended her wings, using her royal voice. "That is too far."

"To Tartarus with both of you!" He grabbed a confused Nightwind and dragged him towards the doors. "Every batpony will know about how the monarchs really feel about us!"

Once he had left the room, Twilight let the struggling filly down. "Somnia, what was that all about?"

"He's right! You don't care!" She answered. "You hate batponies!"

"I don't hate--"

"Anypony who eats meat you hate!"

"Somnia, is that what this is all--"

"Well I won't stand for it!" Twilight had enough of this.

"Somnia!" She shouted back to the filly. "Listen. I don't hate batponies, nor do I hate meat-eaters."

"Only if they are ponies." The filly sneered back. Rolling her eyes, she marched from the throne towards the doors.

"Hey! Where are you going?" Twilight demanded, igniting her horn. Celestia raised a hoof, silently telling her fellow princess to let her go. Once gone, Celestia slumped back in her throne.

"It is for the best. She needs time to vent." The regal sister turned her head up to the ceiling, closing her eyes. "I hope this will go better than the last time."

"What happened last time?" Twilight asked curiously.

"It was before Luna's return. A thestral had come here seeking assistance with timber wolves threatening their town. Hollow Shades as well, I do believe. I sent the Lunar Guard to investigate, but it turned out to be a mistake. Not only did we not find the timber wolves, but the timber wolves ended up killing several ponies before they arrived. They were ran out of the town by the townsfolk. The rumor mill churned out the idea that the Lunar Guards were delayed because of my interference. I gave pardons to several ponies involved, but the incident still was a black mark on my reputation with them."

"But you wouldn't do that to them." Twilight protested. "Do they really have that little trust in you?"

"They don't trust anypony that isn't from their communities or is Luna." She shook her head, turning to Twilight tiredly. "We should probably finish the remaining visitors."

"Where's Captain Broken Dawn?" The filly stood in front of the barracks guard. "I need to speak with them."

"They are currently sleeping, your majesty." The familiar private stood at attention.

"I don't care! Where's their room?"

"To the right until you reach the officer's quarters. The door with the broken sun on it." The other guard answered nervously.

With a sigh, the filly trotted into the barracks, getting a few curious looks from the other guards as she passed. She knocked hard on the door with the small symbol of a broken sun and waited.

A few seconds later she heard somepony yell out from within. "Somepony better be dying, or you're getting court marshaled!"

"Let me in!" The filly demanded. "I want to talk!"

A few silent seconds later, the captain opened the door. "Princess Somnia?"

She lowered her voice. "In private."

Shrugging, the captain let her enter into his quarters/office. He turned on the light, stinging his eyes even more before closing the door gently. "Ya know, the other guards are going to start talking if you keep talking to me in secret." He chuckled.

The filly sat on his bed. "You told me that there weren't enough batponies that cared about changing how things were."

"Yeah?" He wasn't sure where this was headed. After-all, he was correct.

"We had somepony at the court today that did care! They won't stop until the wrongs are righted!"

The captain pulled up a chair next to his bed to face the filly. "And? I never said nopony cared."

"He won't stop, and neither will I! If I have to go to convince every batpony, then I'm going to! Nopony deserves to suffer!"

The captain rubbed his eyes, taking a moment to wake up. "Are you wearing guard armor?"

"Not important!" Grabbing his face: "Focus!"

"Look, kid, I don't know anything about who would care so much as to go to day court about it except..." He paused. "It didn't happen to be Duskwing, did it?"

"So you do know them." She sat back on the bed.

"Yeah, nearly every batpony who's somepony does. They kinda had the reputation of threatening the Lunar Guard some years back, going so far as to rally Hollow Shades into nearly rebelling, I forget why. A local celebrity among bat communities, of sorts. Word spread from the Lunar Guard and Hollow Shades that they were arrested by the Solar Guard, and it just spread like a wildfire among the other communities. I heard about it when I was still living at home in the jungles."

"They... They were arrested?" Somnia didn't like that sound of that.

"Only for a few days until Princess Celestia granted them a pardon for 'inciting rebellion'. A few moons of community service in Hollow Shades for 'assaulting a royal guard', and the rest is history."

The filly slowly smiled. "Sounds like him."

"You heard of them before? I thought the news was ordered not to report on the situation." He scratched an itch on the back of his foreleg as she considered something.

"No, I didn't hear about him. The last time I saw him was a long time ago..."

The captain squinted, right before going wide eyed. "Oh! I... I didn't know Princess Twilight..."

"She doesn't know." The filly shrugged, giving an apologetic smile. "Long story. He doesn't know either. That's what I wanted to talk to you about!"

"I don't see how I'm involved in any of this."

"I need some help." She leaned forward conspiratorially. "I need you to convince Luna to bring me to Hollow Shades with my mom."

"Why me? Why not just ask her yourself?"

"I'm nopony right now. Later today we are holding the press conference to reveal me to Equestria, and it would be an awesome first royal visit to go to Hollow Shades, but I want to make sure everything is in place before then."

The captain scratched the back of his head. "Does Princess Twilight even care? I mean, she's been nothing but pleasant to us guards, but I don't think she really views batponies that highly."

"She will. In time, I will make her." Somnia gave a devious smirk. "It's all part of the plan, but I need your help."

"Trying to get a princess reunited with her former lover? That's... a bit much."

"I was willing to buck you at the Summer Sun Celebration, and this is a bit much?" She deadpanned.

He shifted his tongue along his mouth in thought. She did have a point. And having Princess Twilight in addition to Princess Luna would be a massive step forward to making the change the filly promised. It's just crazy enough to work.

"What do you need me to do?" He asked tentatively, hoping that none of it could backfire.

She laid down on his bed, giving an uncomfortable view of her marehood. He tried averting his gaze, but part of him fought to take a look. "I need you to write a letter to Duskwing. He needs to sign up for an aerial event at the Equestria Games. The tryouts are this weekend at Rainbow Falls, so he'll need to be quick. Tell him that a lot of ponies are excited to see Hollow Shades compete, or something."

"And this helps... how?"

"It will give me an opportunity to introduce mom and dad. I'll think of something, but I need both of them present."

"Okay, that's not so bad." He admitted.

"Next, I need you to talk to Luna. Tell her that the Lunar Guard believes that her performing a royal visit to Hollow Shades would help deal with rumors the princesses don't care about them." She looked up at him over her belly. "But it needs to be after the tryouts. I hopefully will have convinced my mom to give them a chance. That is when you approach Luna about the possibility of bringing me and my mom along."

"And if everything goes according to plan, both of you will accompany her?" He raised a brow. "I still don't see why you couldn't just ask her."

"My mom can't know I'm involved, and I can't let Spike know either." She laid back fully. "He isn't willing to accept sexual favors in exchange for silence."

"I... Don't even want to know." He shook his head, getting rid of the thoughts as much as he could. She didn't make it much easier by presenting herself to him. He fought back the stiffy he was starting to get, with some success.

"My mom can't know about any of this. One slip and she'll know I'm up to something. It needs to seem natural. Sound good?" She asked hopefully.

"Yeah, a small act of misdirection." He chuckled, shaking his head. "I might just see things change within my lifetime."

There was a knock at the door before it was suddenly opened. The lieutenant stopped in her tracks at the sight before her, filly laid out on the captain's bed.

"Yes? I trust this is important?" He asked impatiently.

"Uhh..." She shook her head. "Princess Twilight requested Princess Somnia's presence in her quarters. What is--"

"Nothing!" He clarified, standing up. "She just wanted to talk."

The lieutenant bit her lip. "Like in the gardens?"

"NO!" He shook his head. "Somnia, get out!"

The filly gave him a hug, going so far as to kiss his cheek, before heading off with the lieutenant. He closed the door, clicking the lock in place before slumping against it with a sigh.

"She's going to get me lynched, I swear."

"Did- Did the Captain make you feel uncomfortable?" The lieutenant asked as they walked through the hall.

"Huh? No, why would he?" Somnia raised a curious brow.

"It's alright, you can tell me." She stopped to put a comforting hoof on the filly's shoulder. "If he did anything that made you feel... bad or gross, let me know. I can help."

"Nope!" The filly happily trotted off ahead. The lieutenant knocked on the door to the royal suite Princess Twilight was staying in. A few seconds later she heard the princess yell out to come in. Somnia opened the door to see both Celestia and her mother drinking some tea at the table and trotted over.

"Thank you, lieutenant." Celestia nodded. The guardsmare hesitated for a moment before bowing and taking her leave.

"Got it out of your system?" Twilight got up from the table to hug her daughter.

"Nope! But I'm feeling better now."

"That's good. Wouldn't want you in a grumpy mood at the press conference."

"Speaking of which." Celestia put her cup down and walked over to them. "We should be heading backstage."

With no objections, the three walked down to the backstage area of the royal auditorium. Upon entering into the room, they were swarmed with stylists and makeup artists to get them prepared. Twilight watched the stylist's futile attempt to get Somnia's mane under control, getting a giggle out of the frustration.

"First, Princess Celestia will address the media. Do you remember the script?" A stallion read off from a clipboard, not even bothering to look up as Celestia nodded. "Wonderful. Princess Twilight, have you prepared your speech?"

"Yes." She turned over to Somnia. "Did you prepare yours?"

"I thought I would wing it." She winked while raising her opposite wing, the stallion glaring at Twilight.

"Princess, are you sure its a good idea for the filly to speak before the crowd? Has she even done public speaking before?"

"I'm confident she will only make an embarrassment of herself." The princess giggled, getting a round of giggles from Somnia and Celestia.

"This is serious, princess! This will be her first exposure to Equestria, it's important she makes a good impression!" He turned to Celestia. "Your highness, please talk some sense into her."

"I will do no such thing." The regal sister got up from her chair. "Princess Somnia will learn from her mistakes, one way or another. Better sooner rather than later."

"Of course, your majesty." The stallion deflated. A mare trotted in briefly to yell out that there was 'two minutes to showtime'. The three princesses donned their regalia. While Princess Celestia wore her usual regal wear and Twilight only had her crown, Somnia was given a small tiara donned with six uniquely colored gems and a single clear diamond in the center. Kinda looks like the Excalicorn Amulet. Somnia mused. It even has the color order right.

"I trust that both of you will make the best impression possible." Celestia smiled down to the two younger alicorns. "Remember to smile, and please don't make any inappropriate remarks." She finished by narrowing her eyes at Somnia before they walked to the edge of the stage, waiting for their cue.

The mare next to Celestia checked her watch. "You can start anytime you wish, princess."

Stepping out confidently, her regal posture and diplomatic smile were met by the curious whispers from the crowd of reporters before her. She got behind the podium, taking a quick look down at Twilight's notes before facing the crowd.

"My little ponies, there have been many rumors circulating the two moons since Princess Twilight's ascension as a Princess of Equestria. While many of the rumors have been refuted already by myself or my sister, there were two that were partially correct.

"The day before Princess Twilight's coronation, a filly had wandered into the town of Ponyville, approaching my former pupil and her friend. At the time, she didn't know how to speak Ponish and was mistaken as a pegasus for anypony who gazed upon her. It was soon discovered that she was another alicorn."

The room erupted into questions, ultimately silenced when Celestia raised a hoof. "Furthermore, there have been additional rumors surrounding Princess Twilight's relation with the filly. I would like to clarify exactly what their relationship is." She took a breath, strategically building suspense for the ponies present.

"Rumors about the filly being an illegitimate or abandoned foal of Princess Twilight are completely false. I've known Twilight Sparkle for most of her life, ever since she earned her cutie mark all those years ago, and she isn't the type of pony to abandon a foal of hers. That being said, there is some truth to the rumors. We confirmed by hereditary magic that the filly is, indeed, the legitimate daughter of Princess Twilight."

A few shocked gasps came from the crowd, a few questions yelled over the whispering. "You may be wondering how nopony knew Princess Twilight had a foal until her ascension as a princess. The story behind Equestria's newest and youngest princess is too complicated for this press conference, and it wouldn't feel appropriate unless the young princess or her mother addressed the concerns directly.

"So without further ado, may I introduce for the very first time, Princess Somnia Temporus of Equestria!" She motioned towards the side of the stage. Twilight gently nudged Somnia, who took a shaky step forward before taking a deep breath and marching out like she had been told by Captain Shattershield. Her eyes widened at the sight of nearly twelve rows of reporters idly whispering to each other, each casting their eyes to her.

Somnia took up a position next to the podium opposite Celestia while Twilight went to the microphone between them to begin her speech.

"Ponies of Equestria and those living beyond our borders," Twilight glanced down at her notes, "I haven't been a Princess of Equestria for very long. The past two moons have felt like a roller-coaster with many surprises and expectations forced upon me. One of the expectations I never expected was to be a mother." She smiled down to Somnia. "Truthfully, I didn't even know I had a daughter until that fateful day she wandered into Ponyville."

A few questions were yelled out from the crowd, but Twilight continued. "It may seem like it is impossible for a mother not to know she has foals, and believe me, I was surprised too. My daughter remembers me from a time long forgotten by ponies, she saw me not as a stranger, or as a royal, but as her mom. I vowed that I wouldn't let her go, that in spite of my own memories being lost, I would raise her as any foal I could remember.

"There is a lot behind the story of who she is and where she came from, but I agree with Princess Celestia that it is too much for right now." Looking back to Somnia, Twilight asked a question with her eyes to which the filly nodded. "Somnia would like to give a few words."

Floating the microphone from its perch down to the filly, Twilight mouthed 'good luck'. Swallowing, Somnia built up the strength to speak before them. She had prepared the speech on the way back to the room from Broken Dawn, but now she was having doubts about it.

I believe in you. We all do.

"Hello, everypony." She internally cringed, that wasn't how it was supposed to start. "Um, I would like to thank my mom for helping me adjust to living in Equestria. It hasn't been an easy couple of weeks for either of us." She giggled, gaining a bit more confidence. "I don't know how she puts up with me."

The crowd chuckled a bit. "Even though I come from a different time and a different place, I hope to be a proper leader for all creatures in Equestria. It doesn't matter if you are an earth pony, pegasus, unicorn, or thestral, I will treat you with the respect and patience you deserve."

The crowd whispered a bit at the mention of thestrals, and Twilight gave a wary look to the filly who pushed aside the concerns. "I can only hope that the ponies of Equestria will give me a chance to prove myself. It is my promise to each and every pony that I will serve Equestria as best I can. Thank you." Twilight hoofed over the microphone to Celestia who continued.

"Within the next couple of months, there will be a series of administrative changes occurring in response to Princess Somnia's arrival. We will be addressing those when they are available for the public to view. We will now move onto the Q&A section." She nodded to the guards at the front of the stage who moved aside in case anypony wanted to step forward.

The first reporter to be picked by Celestia was a pegasus stallion. "Princesses, there has been a lot of talk lately that the emergence of Princess Somnia and the magical burst are related. The Clousdale Inquirer would like to know if there is any truth to the rumors."

Celestia answered. "No. Other than Princess Twilight's ascension, the other one is unrelated. The E.U.P. has already ensured the burst was not a threat to Equestria."

"But princess, how is that even possible? It was measured in excess of," he checked his pad of paper, "eleven-thousand swirls, which is significantly more powerful than the measured output of the Elements of Harmony. How is it possible that the E.U.P. was able to contain something that powerful?"

"I've already commented on this previously. The measurements are mistaking a previously unknown form of magic as being more powerful than it actually is."

The reporter sat back down and Twilight pointed to an earth pony in the crowd. "Princess Twilight, we must know, who's the father? Does he know his daughter's a princess?"

The purple princess looked down to the smirking filly next to her, deciding that letting Somnia answer probably would be a bad idea. "I'll be honest, I don't actually know who her father is. It has to do with the memory problems I mentioned before. I can assure you, her father would be proud to know she is a Princess of Equestria."

A few murmurs traveled through the crowd as the earth pony sat back down. Looking out over the crowd, Somnia picked the only thestral reporter among them.

"Princesses, I mean no disrespect, but does Princess Somnia's proclamation to serve all ponies really extend to batponies?"

"Of course it does!" The filly grabbed the microphone from her mother. "You are ponies like any others!"

"I have a hard time believing you are being honest, princess. We've heard promises for reforms but so far nothing has passed."

Grabbing the microphone back from the filly, Twilight narrowed her eyes at the reporter. "She's serious. We had a discussion early today, in fact. There is a lot to consider, but we can guarantee that there will be reforms coming to assist the downtrodden thestral communities."

"Thank you, princesses." The reporter sat back down. Celestia pointed to a unicorn for the next question.

"Going back to the topic of the magical burst--"

"We've already addressed that question." Celestia glared at the mare to stand down, but they persisted.

"The Ponyville Press experienced first-hoof the effects of the magical burst. According to calculations done by the University of Canterlot, the expected effects were accurate for a powerful burst in excess of ten-thousand swirls. Add onto it the increased timber wolf activity and the broken hospital equipment, I believe that you aren't telling us the whole truth, princess".

"Increased timber wolf activity?" Celestia raised a brow. "This is the first I've heard of it." She turned to Twilight who had frozen in place.

"Oh!" Somnia grabbed the microphone. "I would like to ask everypony to stay out of the Everfree Forest! It's dangerous to go in there without permission."

"Permission? You can't be serious?" The reporter scoffed. "It's not even private property. We're allowed to go into the forest if we wish."

"No, she's right." Twilight grabbed the microphone. "If anypony is found trespassing in the Everfree without explicit permission from the resident guardian, there will be consequences besides the dangers within. When I return to Ponyville, I'm going to be having a chat with the mayor about the topic."

"Princess Twilight, since when does the Everfree Forest have a guardian?"

"Longer than the Castle of the Two Sisters has stood." Twilight glanced briefly to Celestia, communicating that she had learned about what they did with Isirilas. "I'm serious. Nopony is allowed to enter into the Everfree Forest, and if you do so without permission then you will not be looked for if you disappear."

The crowd went silent at the implication. Princess Celestia took the microphone back, glaring annoyedly at Twilight before turning to the crowd. "While I don't necessarily agree with Princess Twilight's decision, it is her jurisdiction and doesn't go against the laws of Equestria. I kindly ask everypony to stay away from the forest for its more inherent dangers. As for the timber wolves, I would like you to include an advisory in your paper for citizens to report timber wolf sightings to the local garrison as soon as possible."

"Getting back to my original concern--"

"There's nothing more to discuss." Celestia cut her off. "These events are unrelated. Please let your colleagues have their turns."

The reporter reluctantly sat back down, giving Twilight the opportunity to choose a unicorn stallion.

"Princess Twilight, I'm with the Canterlot Chronicle, and we're wondering about what you meant by 'time long forgotten by ponies'. Are you suggesting you are much older than you have stated in the past?"

Falling onto her bed, Twilight took only a brief look up to see Somnia do the same, except right next to her.

"Ugh..." The filly moaned into the blankets, getting a light chuckle from her mother.

"Didn't expect it to be that bad?" She asked with a smile.

"Never... again..."

"Sorry to ruin your hopes, but that is going to be something you will have to do alone." Twilight petted Somnia's messy mane, rolling over onto her side to get a better look at her. The tiara had fallen off the moment she collapsed, so Twilight floated it over to her bedside table along with her own crown.

Turning down to the filly's cutie mark, her mind returned to one of the oldest questions she had for her daughter.

"Grar, how did she get her cutie mark?" Twilight asked, finally deciding to get it out of the way.

I gave it to her.

"I already know that." She rolled her eyes. "I was wondering how."

Are you sure its the best time to discuss this?

"Why not?"

You may not like the answer.

"I don't like the answer." The filly mumbled barely audible for Twilight.

"Is it something bad?" Twilight followed-up. "Is that why?"

In a sense, yes.

"Come on, just tell me." She grabbed the tired filly and brought her into a hug against her. "I'm here for her, and if understanding her cutie mark will let understand her better, then I will risk it."

I warned you...

Not long after she was born, I brought her to the examination ceremony with the other royal family members. There, I tested her for a variety of characteristics. Characteristics related to purity of soul and essence. If needed, I would have made the determination of her breeding partner. I assumed that her cousin was sufficient for breeding, however what I discovered was even better.

She's was a true alicorn. Perfect for the experiment I had been planning since the dawn of Ponykind.

"Experiment? You used her as a test subject?" She didn't really like the sound of that, especially since Somnia clearly didn't enjoy the results.

If it failed, then she certainly would have been another test subject. I would have had you and your husband to produce several more foals in order to recreate the genetic pattern in case of failure, but I treated her as the main subject, as I didn't know if I would survive the procedure. I meticulously put together the additional sacrifices while I was still in Excalicorn before leaving to gather the main bulk from the Tartarian Prison Complex.

"Sacrifices?" Twilight winced.

A few thousand of the worst criminals and prisoners in the Harmonic Empire along with a couple of dissidents the queen wanted gone.

"You killed thousands of ponies in cold blood for her?" She couldn't believe was she was hearing. That was monstrous, on par with the stories about King Sombra. "What could've possibly justified murder at that scale?"

Desperation. I could not waste the opportunity. My partner believed restraint was warranted until another true alicorn was born, but ultimately I made the call. I'm glad I did, since I succeeded.

"Buck you." The filly mumbled.

My greatest achievement, my greatest mistake, and my greatest regret all at once. If only my homeworld could hear about what I did, I would have been immortalized as a legend.

"That's why she has her cutie mark? How old was she even?"

The queen was in labor when I finished the experiment. She was in for quite the shock when she came to retrieve what was left of me from my laboratory.

"How old?" Twilight gritted her teeth.

Grar briefly paused. A few days. The minimum amount of time to transfer the prisoners from the Tartarian Prison Complex to the lab.

"Buck you!" The filly cried out, digging her face into Twilight's fur, sobbing. "Buck you, buck you, buck you..."

Then comes my regrets. Seeing how much it hurt her over the years. The nightmares, the inability to use most magic, the meticulous and often rigorous lessons to prepare her for when she is ready to take the mantle as a Grand Councilor.

"What's so important about being a 'Grand Councilor' that you would murder thousands and torture an innocent filly?!" Twilight snarled. She wanted to punch him in the face, or turn him to stone, either would have worked. There can't possibly be a good reason for any of this. No, definitely both.

There is a lot you do not know about the universe and the place of ponies in it. Beyond the veil, there are billions of worlds similar to Equestria, harboring life of its own. Do you know why? Because the Grand Councilors protect life from the malevolent entities seeking the end of existence.

Or they did, until they were all killed in 'The Fall'. Only a single one barely survived, mortally wounded and kept in a permanent state of holding back the worst entities with what little of them was left. They gave one last order: Create the Grand Councilor of Harmony by any means necessary. The fate of all existence, of our own lives meaning, depended on it.

I don't expect you to understand the bigger picture, at least not until Somnia breaks the veil to reveal the horrible truth, but understand that I wouldn't have done it if it hadn't been absolutely necessary.

"I still don't get it. Wouldn't something like the Elements of Harmony would have worked? Why does it need to be somepony and not an artifact?"

The Elements of Harmony were made from the Tree of Harmony, which is itself only an access point for the energy contained within the world. Imagine the entity that could create such a world. To possess all the magic on Equus and more as though it was an insignificant fraction of their total strength. Souls are far stronger than even the most advanced saturation technology, thus why it had to be somepony, and not a thing.

Somnia is the closest thing to deity you can get without being the Ascended itself. Not just ponies, but every living thing is reliant on her survival, whether it knows it or not. She understands this, which is why she keeps going in spite of her suicidal urges. I've had to talk her down a few times already, something I don't take lightly.

"Somnia?" Twilight used a hoof to lift the filly's head. "Do you really want to die? Is- Is that why you do what you do?"

The filly dug her face back into Twilight's fur, breaking out in a new round of tears. "I-I j-just want i-it to s-stop."

My greatest regret... that somepony had to bear the curse of immortality. You do not truly understand how long forever is until you face it down in all its horror. With strange eons even death may die, but the Grand Council will remain. Consequences are, ultimately, inconsequential when you will see the same events play out an infinite number of times. What you do or why you do it stops mattering. Then comes the curse of forever, a fate worse than death.

"I-I don't w-want that to h-happen." She sobbed quietly. "I d-don't want to b-be like grandma."

"I don't see how there can be a fate worse than death or living forever. What is the curse of forever? Does it translate at all, or is it something beyond my ability to understand?" Twilight followed up.

Oh no, it is quite easy to understand. All cultures and species have a word for it, whether they accept it or not. It translates to one word in your language, an idea that is immortal on its own, a fate inevitable to those who do not fight it at every turn...

Apathy

Author's Note

Introducing the color schemes for Duskwing and Nightwind:

Chapter 9: Celestial Guidance

Captain, do you have a minute?

What is it, lieutenant? I need to finish this paperwork before assembling the guards.

What's really happening between you two?

Pardon?

You know what I mean, captain.

Are you suggesting I'm involved with- No, I'm not! I've told you this before! That kiss in the garden was because she was drunk!

So she kissed you on the cheek again because...?

"Do I have to?"

"I'm sorry, I'm going to be out of town for a few days at most and I can't trust Spike to take care of you while I'm away." Twilight brushed her daughter's cheek. "Don't worry, I'll be back before you know it."

"But day court is booooorrrriiinnngggg." Somnia whined as Twilight put the saddle bags on her back.

"I know, but it's important you learn from the royal sisters." The train's whistle went off and the conductor called out the immediate departure of the train. "The captain will meet you at the train station to take you to the castle. Love you!" She nuzzled her daughter before passing her off to the escorting guard.

She waved them off while Somnia stared out the window at her, sadly waving back as the train departed from Ponyville.

The train ride was quiet for the filly as she stared out the window. She really didn't want to go. It had only been two days since their little talk, and she was getting used to the attention her mother was giving her, even going so far as to let her sleep in her bed. The nightmares were less intense than they had been when sleeping alone, which resulted in the first good night of sleep in a long time, one without any nightmares.

Catching a quick nap on the ride over, she relived the murder of a pony by one of the serial killers that were sacrificed with all the associated sick pleasure they experienced from gradually grating the hooves off the pony. Then the nose. Then the lips. Then the eyes...

The guard ended up waking her up before she could relive the disposal of the body in the pig pen, mentioning that they were approaching Canterlot. Upon pulling into the station, it was already past sunset. Captain Broken Dawn was waiting with a few other night guards on the platform.

With her spirits lifted, she happily trotted from the train to meet the familiar face.

"Captain Dawn! I wasn't expecting you to meet me."

"Shattershield needed to rest after the events of court today." He took another bite of his bagel. "Ready to go?"

"Mm-hm." She trotted alongside him to the waiting chariot. Two thestral guards flew the chariot over the city, giving Somnia a good view of the nighttime activity. While most of the streets were empty, there was a section of the city that seemed to be thriving at night.

They landed on the castle chariot platform rather than the castle doors itself, a few night guard unicorns waiting patiently along with Princess Luna. The guards scanned each of the ponies before nodding to the princess.

"It is good to see you again, Princess Somnia. Did you get much rest on the ride over?" The lunar princess smiled down to her.

"A little." She followed Luna into the castle, roughly in the direction of the throne room. "Am I helping you with night court?"

"In a way, yes." She glanced down to her. "I need to patrol the dreams of ponies to stop nightmares from disturbing their sleep. I would like you to alert me if somepony arrives seeking an audience, that way I can do both my duties at once."

"Oh..." The two entered into the throne room, Luna sitting on the throne while Somnia sat on the cushions in front of her.

"Captain, are there any visitors at the moment?" She called out to the captain standing guard by the door. He took a quick look outside the doors before nodding to the princess. "Send them in."

The pony was an older earth pony stallion with graying hair. Somnia half-listened to their complaint about noise from the entertainment district. It was a fairly small complaint, all things considered. Luna gave her recommendation for noise-suppressing drapes before the pony was on their way.

"That's all, your majesty." Captain Broken Dawn rubbed his nose. "Looks to be another quiet night."

"Thank you, captain." She turned to Somnia. "Alert me if another pony comes. Gently touch my horn and I'll get the message." Her eyes closed and her horn ignited before she drifted from the wakeful world into the dream realm. Somnia waited a few minutes before getting up to go over to the captain.

Standing at the other side of the door, she put on her best guard stance, mimicking what Shattershield had taught her. Broken Dawn was less formal than his fellow captain, preferring to sit and shuffle a deck of cards lazily. Her eyes drifted to his form, studying it.

He was muscular, there was no denying that. She could see herself--

No, that wouldn't be appropriate. He was uncomfortable with her advances, otherwise he would have accepted her offer. Still...

"Eyes steady, soldier." He smirked to her as her eyes glazed his lower half. Quickly turning away embarrassed, she tried thinking of an excuse, but none came to mind right away. "You're too young for that sort of thing. Luna knows where you got those ideas from." He chuckled.

"I-I was just checking out your armor." She stuttered out an excuse. "I never saw it so clearly before."

"Right... And you happen to look everywhere that isn't covered by armor?"

Wincing, she let it rest. He caught her and both of them knew it. They did their own things in silence for what felt like an hour before a knock on the door startled the filly. The captain looked up: "Better go tell her."

Somnia trotted back over to Luna and tapped her horn. It took a minute before Luna opened her eyes, clearly unhappy with how things had went from her deep frown. "So soon? I was expecting another hour before we had more visitors."

"It's only been twenty minutes, your highness. Shall I send them in?" Broken Dawn replied from the other side of the throne room.

"Twenty minutes?! That felt like forever." The filly collapsed onto her cushion.

"Send them in." Luna giggled. A thestral trotted in, eyes scanning the throne area.

"Your majesties!" He bowed.

"Quiet Flight, it's a pleasure as always." Luna sat back in the throne, smiling down to her visitor. "How may I help you this time?"

"I was actually going to ask about her." He nodded to the filly. "I read in the newspapers that she mentioned batponies at the press conference. Is it true that she wants to help us?"

Somnia sat up to tiredly smile down to them. "As much as I can. Nopony deserves to be mistreated like that."

"It is nice to hear you are sincere about helping us. It hasn't been an easy time living among other ponies." He smiled grateful for the support. "But why? Why do you care so much about us? Most see us as a lost cause."

"Nonsense." Luna spoke up. "You are ponies like any others. You deserve the same treatment."

"Yeah, what she said." Somnia nodded to the Princess of the Night. "But there is a bit more... I don't like to see creatures suffer. I see enough of that when I'm asleep."

"I'm sorry I can't help you, Somnia." Luna put a hoof on her shoulder. "But whatever Grar did to you is blocking me from even seeing you in the realm of dreams."

"I understand she still has a ways to go before she has her coronation." Quiet Flight interjected. "Does that mean that the reforms will come when she is older?"

Both of the alicorns thought about it for a moment, for radically different reasons. "No, I want justice as soon as possible." Somnia answered before Luna. "I'm not going to stop until something is done."

"It certainly will be interesting to have another princess supporting them." Luna commented. "Perhaps we should talk to some of the nobles on the council, see if they are willing to change their mind." She turned back to Quiet Flight. "I assure you, justice will come, and both of us will fight for it."

"Thank you, your excellence." He bowed again. "It's good to hear the rumors were true."

"Rumors?" She raised a brow.

"From Hollow Shades, your majesty. An anonymous thestral said that the new princess was friendly to us despite her mother's prejudice."

"That's Duskwing for you." Somnia giggled. "Won't let it go."

Luna brought a hoof to her chin in thought. "Duskwing... I've heard that name before. I believe they were the first thestral to introduce themselves to me. Quite bold, considering the most others had said was 'Thank the heavens' and 'Praise Luna' up until that point."

"I wouldn't know anything about that." The batpony grinned. "But it would be a good guess they were the one behind it. Anyway, I must be going. Work won't wait for me." He waved back as he trotted out of the room, the captain closing the door behind them.

"Did you mean what you said?" Luna asked, smile falling from her face. "Or are you simply placating them?"

"I meant it. Dad won't stop, and neither will I!" She proudly declared.

"Have you found out who your father is?"

"Yeah..." The filly admitted, smile creeping onto her face. "He's just like I remember. Won't stop until all batponies are treated with respect."

"Well I hope that you will introduce me to him." She smiled back, having a feeling she already knew who she was talking about.

"How many?" Broken Dawn asked to his side.

"I lost count around a four-hundred." The filly squinted. "Is it just me or are they merging together?"

"Just you. They're always the same." He focused his eyes on the same spot on the ceiling. "On second thought, maybe they do change."

From across the throne room, a deep sigh echoed out. Princess Luna got up from the throne, bags under her eyes. "Captain, would you please take Somnia back to her room so that she may rest? I need to raise-" she sighed, "lower, the moon."

"Of course, your highness." He saluted, leading the filly out into the hallway. She was having trouble focusing on anything except the swishing of the captain's tail. It had been a long night, far too long. Nothing to do except count ceiling tiles and admire the physique of her companion.

While she was tired, she also was dying for some kind of release before bed. A quick one in the shower would suffice, if her luck wasn't good.

The captain opened the door to the filly's room, raising a brow when she didn't enter. "Is something wrong?"

"I, um..." She needed something, ANYTHING. "Mom usually helps me go to sleep."

"You want me to read you a bedtime story?" He chuckled. "It's been too long since I had a princess ask me to do that."

"Not exactly... I, kinda, sorta, want you to snuggle with me until I fall asleep." She lowered her head.

"Snuggle... with you?" He took a look at both guards at the side of the door, both staring off at the opposing wall with their stoic expressions. Sighing: "Is that an order?"

"Um, yes." She smiled, standing up straighter. "I order you to snuggle with me until I fall asleep."

"Can't refuse an order, no matter how ridiculous." He mumbled as the filly trotted happily into the room. Following after her, he saw her standing there waiting for him patiently. "What now?"

"I'm going to have a shower. When I get out, I need you to help preen my wings." She held back her smile by biting her lip.

"I don't know how to preen wings!" He exclaimed. "Does it look like I have feathers?"

"I know you do." She stepped forward, getting uncomfortably close to him. "Luna told me you helped her when she returned from the moon."

"Yes, your majesty." He said through gritted teeth. She was really going all out to get him riled up. He sat down on the bed and waited for her while she showered, his mind slowly going through the motions of steeling itself against any unprofessional feelings.

"Dawny~" The filly called out from the bathroom, getting a cringe from the pet name. "Can you help me with my tail?"

Getting up, he entered into the bathroom, filly standing under the shower stream holding back a giggle. "I just need it shampoo'd and rinsed. It doesn't want to stay still."

"Let me..." He couldn't believe he was going to say this. "Get out of my armor."

After disarming, he entered into the shower behind her. She wasn't kidding, her tail certainly was waving back and forth as he rubbed in the shampoo. If he could see her face, he bet she was loving every moment.

"How long has it been since you were last with a mare?" The filly suddenly asked, adding to his frustration.

"Nearly twelve years." He grabbed the shower head to rinse her tail completely, and so he could keep his mouth shut.

"Ya know, I haven't ever been close with a grown stallion before." Her tail flicked unexpectedly to the side, giving him a clear view of what he was secretly craving. "I've always wondered how it feels..."

Finishing with the rinsing, the captain promptly exited the shower and dried himself off. Rather than donning his armor, he went out to sit in the bedroom proper. He needed to settle his nerves and the little guy before he could get that armor back on. What the hay is wrong with me? She's a princess! And a foal! I can't do this, I can't!

The filly plopped down next to him, towels over her mane and tail. "Ready!" She declared, extending her wings.

Moving slowly, he adjusted her... what even were they? They were too smooth to be feathers, but too thin to be flaps and parted like a feather. Ignoring the unusual biology, he did his best with each wing. No feather-things needed to be removed, only readjusted.

"Mmm~" The filly moaned out as he finished. "Wanna get the light?"

"Sure..." He trudged over to the switch, turning off the room's illumination before going over and laying atop the sheets.

"Come on~ You should get under the sheets. I can't snuggle into you like this." She complained.

Getting under the sheets, he couldn't help but feel this would all end badly. She was really, REALLY persistent. Snuggling into his side, she wrapped her hooves around his neck, making sure he couldn't escape.

"It's nice to have somepony to hold..." She trailed off, bringing her head closer to his neck. "Twelve years, huh?"

"I'm going to regret this in the evening." He mumbled out before taking her head for a kiss.

KNOCK KNOCK

Broken Dawn's eyes shot open at the sudden loud banging from the door. Moaning from on top of him was the filly he was tasked with protecting, staring lazily into his eyes. "Wanna get that?"

"Uhhhh..." He rolled her off of him, his heart pounding as he finally took note of how far they had actually gone. Grabbing the towel from the floor, he quickly wiped himself down before heading over to the door. His heart stopped when he opened it a crack only for it to fully open, the Princess of the Sun striding right past him into the room.

"Somnia! You were supposed to be awake an hour ago!" She stopped in her tracks at the victoriously smiling filly rubbing her eyes. Looking back to the ashamed guard captain, she took in the rest of the room. The towel on the floor, the captain not in his armor, the messy bedspread, the smell. "You didn't."

"I gotta shower." The filly giggled, hopping down from bed to go back to the bathroom. The princess closed the door with her magic before turning to the captain.

"Care to explain?"

"There's no excuse for what I have done. It was a dereliction of duty and unbecoming of an officer of the Royal Guard." He simply stated, hanging his head. "I deserve whatever punishment you deem fit."

The princess took a deep breath, thinking it through. Putting on her motherly smile, she leaned down to whisper in his ear. "I promise, nothing will happen to you, on three conditions. One, you are going to be reassigned as one of her personal guards. I don't want her to go trotting off alone, understood?"

"U-Understood. A-And the second?" He dared to ask.

"Second, you are to be transferred to a new division of the royal guard as a lieutenant for the foreseeable future. I can't let your transgressions go without punishment. I'm sure you can understand why."

He let Celestia fill in the third condition on her own. "Third, if you get her pregnant, I will throw you into Tartarus for a thousand years."

He nodded, understanding that this was a better fate than he could have gotten. She was mature enough, he hoped, and had her cutie mark so he wouldn't serve any jail time for what he did, but getting dishonorably discharged from the royal guard and publicly shamed for being a foal-fiddler was by far a worse fate.

The former captain entered into the bathroom to grab his armor, carefully eyed by the princess. The filly greeted him but he kept his mouth shut as he re-donned his armor. She finished showering by the time he did up the straps, exiting just before her to take up a post next to Celestia.

"Lieutenant, please go down to see Captain Shattershield. He will give you your new armor and so you can clear out your office." The regal sister commanded, getting no objection from him as he trotted from the room.

"Lieutenant?" Somnia asked concerned. "He's--"

"Been reassigned." Celestia filled in. "It's not as bad as it sounds. Being a part of the new division has a certain amount of prestige associated with it."

Leading the way out of the room, Somnia felt kinda bad about her advances. She didn't want him to get in trouble. Her moping was interrupted when Celestia opened the door to the meeting room. Three other ponies were gathered, the blue haired noble with a monocle speaking up first:

"Princess, was something wrong with the little filly?" He asked concerned.

"No, she simply slept in." She answered. "But that is beside the point. We are here now, so let's begin."

"I'm Raven Inkwell, your majesty. I handle the administrative tasks that are too tedious for the princesses and take notes in meetings for them to review." The mare with dark brown hair and a white coat bowed. "My official title is the Secretary of State."

"I'm Lord Fancy Pants, current minster of the nobility. Anything related to the aristocracy is my specialty." The aforementioned noble nodded.

"Coin Counter. Finance minister." The last, and grumpiest, pony stated simply. "I balance the books and handle the finances of Equestria. Need something funded? Talk to me or talk to one of these other ponies."

"There are other ministers I should introduce you to, but these are the three that you will be interacting with the most. You are already familiar with Captain Shining Armor, he is in charge of the Royal Guard." Celestia added.

"Huh? I thought--"

"He was a captain?" Celestia smiled. "His official title is Captain-General Shining Armor of the Royal Guard. All other captains report directly to him or the princesses if he isn't available, as is the case since he moved to the Crystal Empire. I will need to also introduce you to the E.U.P. general staff, but that can wait until Twilight is available to meet them as well."

"Shall we get started?" Fancy Pants asked, smiling to both of the princesses.

"Please pass the salt and pepper, Princess Somnia."

"Of course, Lord Fancy Pants."

"Princess, would you please pass the bowl of lettuce down this way?"

"Here you are, Princess Celestia."

"You're doing much better than when we started." The noble sipped his tea.

"I'm trying my best, good sir." Somnia kept the smile on her face all through the tedious exercise, with a few slip-ups earlier on.

The door to the room opened, Lieutenant Broken Dawn entering donned in a light blue-tinted armor lined with gold, taking up a position next to the door with a stoic expression. Entering behind was Captain Shattershield, their armor matching the lieutenant's except for the addition of purple lines that traced the edges.

"Captain, you're late." Celestia teased.

"I don't follow your orders anymore, now do I?" He smiled back playfully.

"Princess Somnia, you already know Captain Shattershield." Celestia got up from her chair to stand next to the captain. "What I haven't told you is that he is in-charge of your personal guard, what we dubbed the Queen's Guard."

The filly squealed in delight. Her dreams confirmed that the Queen's Guard would be forming, but she hadn't actually expected the captain to be accepted into it. Only one last measure she needed to perform before the 'trio' was complete. From behind her, she heard Fancy Pants speak.

"The Queen's Guard? I don't quite understand, princess."

"Princess Somnia is due to become Queen of Equestria at her coronation in a few years. She will need her own personal protection detail if she is to be living in Ponyville. The captain has already selected a few ponies from the guard to assist in the task of protecting her against threats internal and external."

"And will they be serving under the captain-general?" He asked curiously.

"No, they will answer only to the queen, and until then, two principal regents." Celestia clarified, Captain Pansy entering into the room after shooing away another guard. "Captain Pansy, congratulations on your promotion."

"Thank you, your majesty. It is a great honor to be serving you personally." She bowed before the princesses. "Princess Somnia, Lord Fancy Pants, I am now in charge of the Royal Security Detail, formerly the Princess Security Detail. I am tasked with protecting the royal family and any additional assets that may fall under my purview. Officially, I answer to Captain Shining Armor, but he now answers directly to you." Nodding to Somnia. "Or he will once you're officially queen." She corrected.

"Princess Twilight will be receiving quite the letter." Celestia mused. "Make sure she doesn't faint when she finds out."

"I'll do my best to prevent impact, your highness." Shattershield chuckled, returning to a stoic expression next to the door opposite Broken Dawn.

"Is this the big news?" Fancy Pants questioned as Celestia sat back down at the table. "The 'administrative changes' you mentioned?"

"Indeed. Somnia?" The filly slowly turned to look back at the princess, biting her lip to hold back any more squeaks. "It is almost time for night court. You don't need to be here while I fill in Lord Fancy Pants about the changes. Why don't you go wake up Luna?"

"Yeah, sure!" She happily smiled. Getting down from her chair, she was flanked on either side by her personal guards. The other guards stood out of the way as they made their way towards the royal suites. It was so surreal, having her own guards that she can command. No more interference by other ponies, they were hers. Now and forever.

They stopped in front of the doors to Luna's chambers, the lunar guards casting a glance to one another.

"Business, Princess Somnia?" The mare stoically asked.

"I'm here to wake up Luna."

"I afraid we can't allow that. She is not to be disturbed until sunset."

"Overruled." The captain stepped forward. "Open the door."

With a nervous look to their other guard, the mare undid the lock letting Somnia enter. She told her bodyguards to stay outside the room, silently closing the door behind her before carefully approaching the bed and pulling herself on top of it.

Tapping her horn gently, the sleeping princess moaned out while pulling a pillow over her head: "Five more minutes..."

Somnia knew how to deal with sleepy fillies. Moving over to in front of Luna's face, she leaned down and licked the princess' horn from the base to the tip, sending shivers along Luna's spine.

"Tia, it's not funny." Luna growled out.

"I'm not Tia, I'm... Nia?"

"Somnia?" Luna pulled the pillow from her head to stare at the filly in bafflement. "What the buck..."

Somnia simply shrugged. "Fae and I always did that to each other when we wanted to get each other up."

"That explains why mom did that when we were foals." Luna sat up in her bed, shaking her head. "Bizarre that something done only with intimate lovers is used to wake up family."

"I mean, we kinda did try--"

"I don't want to hear it." Luna put a hoof over the filly's mouth. "Just... sit here while I get ready. How long until sunset?"

Looking over at the clock: "About thirty minutes, give or take."

"I'll take." She got out of bed, drudging her way into the bathroom while Somnia took a moment to look around the room. Above Luna's bed were stars resembling constellations, or at least that's what Somnia thought since they looked nothing like the constellations from back in Excalicorn. The room was dimly lit by these stars along with a bit of glowing material against certain hard edges on the furniture.

A few minutes later, Princess Luna departed the bathroom and began donning her regalia. "Did Celestia give you any surprises lately?"

"She gave me a personal guard, that was pretty surprising." She kicked her hind-hooves back-and-forth. Of course, its formation wasn't the real surprise, only the captain's acceptance. Hay, she even knew that Broken Dawn would join them even if she didn't know the circumstances.

"Ah, so she did." Luna turned to the mirror to adjust her mane. "We believed it to be for the best considering how danger prone you are. Still, one pony isn't enough to make an entire elite guard."

"I got two! Captain Shattershield and Lieutenant Broken Dawn!"

The princess froze at the second name. "Lieutenant... Broken Dawn. They joined when you asked them?"

"I don't think he really had a choice." Somnia winced. "We, um, were kinda..."

"Kinda what?" Luna turned around. "Somnia, kinda what?"

"Kinda caught..." She whimpered out nervously.

"Did you seriously buck him?!" Luna yelled back. "After everything I told him, he still goes ahead and ruts you!"

"Wait, you knew?"

"The entire barracks knew that you had kissed him! Then I find out that you were presenting yourself to him, alone, in emotional distress no less!" Luna took a breath before continuing. "Where is he?"

"Outside!" Somnia hopped down from the bed and trotted over to the door, pulling it open to reveal her two bodyguards on the other side. "Dawny, Luna wants to yell at you a bit!"

"Dawny?" Shattershield turned to his partner.

"Long story..." He nervously chuckled.

"You foal-fiddling piece of shit!" Luna left the room grabbing him by the collar of his armor with her hooves. "I told you: No bucking the filly!"

"H-Hey, she approached me about it!" He defended himself against the angry princess.

"If you hadn't already been demoted and lost your entire command, I would have you court marshaled for insubordination!" She growled back. "If I find out she's pregnant, I swear I'll--"

"Luna!" Somnia objected, forcing her way between them. "I'm not pregnant! Probably..."

"PROBABLY?!"

"That bad, huh?" Shattershield chuckled, shaking his head. "I wish I could have seen the look on the lieutenant's face."

"Yeah, thanks for making me feel sooo much better." Broken Dawn facehoofed. "There goes my entire career! Did you see the way the other guards were looking at me? It's like I stabbed a princess or something!"

"Well, you kinda did stab a princess." Shattershield laughed.

"Colts, are you done?" An impatient Somnia tapped her hoof on the ground. They were standing in the dimly lit field of the training grounds of the barracks, three royal guards lined up for inspection. Each one volunteered for the position in the Queen's Guard and weren't disqualified by either Princess Celestia or Captain Shattershield. Two royal guard, one lunar guard, and Somnia already knew from the moment she laid her eyes on one that they were meant to be in the Queen's Guard. Four down... How many more to go?

"Ahem, yes, your highness. For now at least." Shattershield smirked to her. "Are they to your approval?"

Somnia gave another look back at them. "And I can trust them to carry out my orders?"

"As long as you don't order them to buck you, I'm sure they will."

"Buck you, captain." Broken Dawn added quickly.

"I don't see anything wrong with them..." She warily looked back at the guards.

"But?"

"But I want to know the ponies under my command. I want to know I can trust them." She picked at one of the royal guard's armor. "I've had assassins try coming after my family from within the guard. I don't want to see anypony hurt."

"I assure you, they are completely trustworthy and will excel in protecting you from threats."

"I know..." She leaned against the guardsmare, who nervously sweated at the uncomfortable situation. "What's your name?"

"Corporal Hunter, your majesty!" She answered professionally.

"See the problem? She's too military!" The filly walked back over to her two guards. "How do I know that she doesn't have other motives?"

"What makes you so sure we don't have other motives?" Broken Dawn spoke up, glancing suspiciously to his companion.

"Because I know your motives!" She pointed a hoof at the lieutenant. "You didn't have a choice. Either this, or jail."

"I wouldn't have gone to jail, ya know?" He raised a brow. "You're probably legal."

"Legality not withstanding!" She pointed her hoof at the captain. "You're here because Celestia doesn't trust me."

"Pretty much." The captain shrugged, not even bothering to deny it. "Keep an eye on you, make sure you don't get killed, try to cock-block you when you're getting frisky."

"Captain, permission to speak." The lunar guard asked, an earth pony mare with tan fur and bluish hair.

"Granted."

"Is this all an act or is she really--"

"That bad?" Broken Dawn rolled his eyes. "Tell that to my lieutenant badge. Ask Captain Scythe if you don't believe me. Say the former Captain Broken Dawn sent you, I'm sure she'll get a kick out of it."

The mare swallowed. "Captain, permission to withdraw my application."

"Denied!" Somnia giggled. "Welcome to the Queen's Guard!"

"...buck."

"Language, sergeant!" The captain looked down to Somnia. "And the others?"

The filly turned to speak to the remaining two ponies. "While I have nothing against either of your skills or devotion, I need ponies that I can get along with. I'm sorry, but both of you are rejected."

The two ponies saluted, receiving salutes in return before they marched off to the barracks leaving a very confused and concerned sergeant as the sole applicant.

"What's your name?" Somnia trotted up to her new guard. "I'm Somnia."

"Uhh... Yes?" She looked over to the captain who laughed out loud, receiving a facehoof from the other.

"Hmm... Sergeant Yes?"

"Um, no, ma'am! I mean, Sergeant Fleeting Dust, ma'am! Your highness!" She winced at the fumble. "Sorry, your highness!"

"You're going to have to start calling me Somnia. I can't stand these 'highness's and 'majesty's. Same goes for you two. To me, you're Shield, Dawny, and Dusty, and to you I'm Somnia, or Som if you want. Only refer to me by my status at formal events or in front of other ponies that aren't family."

"Captain, are you sure she's qualified to order us around?" The sergeant asked warily.

"Of course she is." He walked over to the filly, putting a leg around her withers. "If she wasn't going to be a colossal pain in the flank to protect, then we wouldn't even be here."

"Grar, want to introduce yourself?" The filly asked, looking to nowhere in particular.

Gladly.

"WHO THE BUCK WAS THAT?!" Dawn jumped back from the filly, getting laughs from his startled companions.

"Captain, what in Celestia's holy sun are we doing here?" The sergeant whispered back to her superior.

"Not our place to ask, and it doesn't seem so bad." He looked up the boarded up windows, occasionally behind metal bars.

"Are we there yet?" The impatient filly asked from atop Broken Dawn's back.

"We'd go faster if you would just walk." He said through gritted teeth.

"You had plenty of stamina earlier~"

"Eck." The sergeant fell back into position. It was one of the poorer sections of Canterlot, tucked against the mountain. Here the sun rarely reached the streets except during mid-day. On one side, the mountain, on the other, Canterlot Castle. Only one type of pony would live in a place like this...

"Dawn?" A voice called out from an open window. "You on patrol with the squad?"

"Not exactly, Rose." He admitted. "Do you have a moment to chat?"

"I always have time." She closed the shutters, returning at the door to invite them inside. "Um, all of you?"

"Captain, sergeant, keep watch here. Dawny, with me." The filly hopped down from her mount, shocking the thestral mare. She moved out of the way to allow them entry, receiving an apologetic look from her fellow thestral.

"Dawny?" The mare teased her old friend. "What? You adopt her or something?"

With sigh, he sat down in the fairly small living room, filly strategically sitting on his lap to make him even more uncomfortable than he already was.

"What would you like to talk about, princess? I-I assume princess, cause, you know, wings and horn." She grabbed her cold coffee to take a sip, immediately regretting it.

"I want to know what it's like to live here in Canterlot." She squirmed a bit on her cushion, getting them to lift her up and place her next to him.

"O-Oh, well, I don't think I'm the best to ask about that..." She nervously chuckled.

"Why not?"

"Well, it's just that I don't get out into the city very often. Too many..."

"Unfriendly faces?" Dawn filled in, getting a nod from the mare.

"Do you know why?" The filly followed-up.

"I-It's just, um, my is it hot in here." She bit her lip, trying to think of any answer that wasn't the real reason.

"Do you have any meat slices in your fridge?" The filly asked hopefully.

"I-It's not illegal! I bought them perfectly legally!" Rose defended.

"Can I have some?" She got up onto her hooves. "Pllleeeeeeaaaasssse?"

"What? B-But won't you get sick?" She turned to the guard for reassurance.

"Part batpony." He shrugged. "If she was telling the truth."

"I always tell the truth!" She positively stated, before bobbing her head to the side. "Most of the time..."

"Um, just around the corner." The mare pointed, filly jumping over the sofa to get to the fridge. "Dawn, i-is that the new princess?"

"Unfortunately, yes." He laid back on the couch, smiling. "Quite something, ain't she?"

"I didn't realize she was..."

"A filly?"

"Yeah. I thought the news was exaggerating. H-How are you handling it?" The question went unanswered as Somnia trotted back in, a few meat slices in her mouth. She plopped down next to Dawn, offering him one which he accepted.

"Now." She took a bite out of her meat and meat sandwich. "What can you tell me about what it's like to live in Canterlot, for a batpony?"

"There you are! The guard has been looking for you everywhere." Luna flew down to the filly and company that approached the castle. "Is- Is that meat?"

"Want some?" She offered a chicken leg. "If you can eat it, that is..."

"I-I can." She admitted. "I shouldn't..."

"Live dangerously." Broken Dawn shrugged, throwing the remaining bone on his leg into a plastic bag they had found on the ground.

"You went out for food? But we have food here." She wearily moved her gaze to the other two guards, having either a drink or packet of fries.

"But you don't have fast food." Somnia tapped a hoof to her head. "I didn't want a meal, I wanted a snack."

"We went down the street to that subsidized place that you and Princess Celestia sometimes go to." The captain added, grabbing another fry from the packet with his mouth.

"That explains why we didn't find you..." Luna winced, shaking her head to get back to the topic she was looking for the filly for. "Twilight is returning on the nightly train. She'll be in Canterlot in an hour or two."

"Great!" Somnia trotted past her. "I'm going to have a nap then!"

"Princess, can I please request a transfer?" The sergeant whispered to Luna once the other guards were out of earshot.

"What? I thought you wanted to join the Queen's Guard."

"I did, but she's a bit..."

"Foalish?" Luna shook her head. "Right now, yes. Probably won't change much as she grows up, but it's manageable if you know what to look out for."

"I was going to say irresponsible, but that is also true."

"You're in the Queen's Guard until your contract expires." Luna stated matter-of-factly. "Nothing I can do unless you get your commanding officer and one other superior to sign your release form."

"Okay, I think I can convince Shattershield. Would you be--"

Luna stopped in place, mischievously smiling down to her. "The chain of command is you, then Captain Shattershield, then Princess Somnia. I'm sorry but you've made your choice, whether you like it or not." She glanced back to where the group had turned the corner. "The fact that Somnia picked you means something. She isn't light about who she lets close. I'll offer you a deal. Finish your contract, fill me in on any happenings around her, and I'll provide a count's pension to you so that you may retire early."

"That's..." She couldn't believe it. Simple spying work lasting three years for a noble pension? "Sold!"

"Do you think she took the bait?" Dawn stole one of Shield's hayfries.

"Oh yes, I think she did." Somnia turned around seeing the mare calmly trot back up to them, a bit more bounce in her step.

The guards sat inside Somnia's room while she showered, hashing out their rotation. Each would take a third of the day, Dawn taking the night shift while the other two argued the day shifts. Once it was all settled, Shield and Dusty left to pack their things and to gather Dawn's box while he guarded the door.

The next hour was fairly uneventful, besides Dawn having to wake Somnia up from her nightmare and getting a face full of hoof. They arrived at the train station with a couple of minutes to spare before the train arrived. Entering into the civilian car, Somnia spotted the tired, and mostly sleeping, Elements of Harmony.

"Somnia?" Twilight squinted, seeing the three armored ponies take up positions around the filly. "Who are they?"

"My guards!" She trotted over, giving her mother a hug. "Oh, and this is for you." She pulled an envelope out of her saddlebags before settling down next to her mother. Each of the guards took a different post in the train car while Twilight read the letter from Celestia and Luna.

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

I'm sure you have plenty of questions about the new company with your daughter. We are beginning to put forward our administrative reforms and believe that a more permanent force would help ward off any threats. They are the Queen's Guard, loyal servants answering to only you and her. Each individual is highly skilled at what they do and loyal to a fault.

Another matter we need to discuss is your roll in the regency council. As the only living close relative of the queen that can be trusted, you are bestowed the title of mother-regent, one of the principal regent positions. We will handle the day-to-day tasks of Equestria's government while you make sure she grows into a proper leader. Your brother will be reaching out to you about the change of command, given that you are the only superior he answers to now (besides Cadance).

We trust you will make the correct decisions, Mother-Regent Twilight Sparkle of Equestria.

Sincerely,
Princess Celestia and Princess Luna

"Check, check." She barely heard the captain whisper while holding a hoof to his ear.

"Copy." The guardsmare replied, also holding a hoof to her ear.

"Check." The stallion who Twilight recognized as Captain Broken Dawn repeated in a similar style.

"Any issues?"

"Negative." "All clear."

First Daring Do being real, now being made the most powerful pony in Equestria with her own personal guards...

What next?

Pinkie Pie rolled over in her sleep, whispering: "No, Twi. Don't say that."