Rarity stared out the window of the train, the black-clad mare scanning her surroundings with careful consideration. The landscape had morphed, with Ponyville fading behind them while the forest reached out, welcoming them into its bosom. Even from a few miles out, Rarity could tell that the forest was less wild than before, giving a wide berth to the road as well as the train tracks.

These two long spears of civilization plunged deep into the formerly impassable terrain, allowing ponies access to the forest’s heart. Which was not visible from their current position, the train forced to wind its way into the wild wood. Even here there was still much to see, like the small pockets of homes that were built near the road.

Gathered in bundles for safety, these holdouts had seemingly evolved from the dumping depots made during the track’s construction. Now serving as tiny logging camps, or housing for refugees, they were miserable by Equestrian standards. Rarity, however, knew how bad things could truly become, and noticed that these ponies were happy despite their circumstances.

Sure they were forced into bunkhouses or other large group homes for the most part, but they still smiled earnestly and often. Even after losing their capital, and facing off against a foe capable of leveling a mountain, they maintained their spirit. The sight made Rarity nauseous, for reasons she couldn't quite explain, the mare scowling at the joyful ponies outside her window.

“Are you okay?” Pinkie Pie gently inquired.

Rarity schooled her expression and flashed the pink mare a fake smile. “Absolutely darling. Just, remembering something unpleasant is all.”

“Speaking of which,” Twilight eagerly perked up, leaning across the cabin. “Can you tell us anything about what it was like?”

“Horrible,” Rarity declared. “It was an experience I would not wish upon almost anyone. Which is why the tale shall be told once, and only once.”

Twilight pouted, putting away her notepad. “Is there anything you can tell us about?”

“Now Twi, we shouldn't pressure the poor girl. She’s been through a lot,” Applejack warned.

“You musta kicked a whole lotta butt,” Rainbow Dash added, poking Rarity’s armored chest. “You got some sweet-looking armor.”

“Are you sure that's armor? It kinda looks like the clothing I was told I’m not allowed to buy,” Pinkie Pie ruminated.

Rarity sighed. “I suppose I could talk about my wargear a little. It's not like any of it can be reproduced in Equestria.”

“War gear? That sounds scary,” Fluttershy murmured.

“Oh pisha, how dangerous can this tube thingy be anyway?” Rainbow Dash remarked while peering down the barrel of Rarity’s pulse rifle.

“You have no idea what you’re dealing with,” Rarity hissed, snatching the gun from Rainbow Dash’s grip and placing it against the wall. “If you had managed to disarm the safety and pulled the trigger you would be dead right now.”

“Pfft, I could take it,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, leaning back on the table. “I once got punched halfway across Equestria you know.”

“You were also already flying very fast, and Tirek barely touched you,” Fluttershy added. “But um I suppose that still did happen.”

“What does it do anyway?” Twilight asked, pointing hesitantly at the weapon in question.

“A pulse rifle such as mine utilizes pulsed induction fields to propel lethal microbursts of plasma over incredible range,” Rarity began. “These bursts of plasma burn hotter than the surface of a yellow dwarf star and can easily punch through flesh like a hot knife through butter.”

Rarity gently lifted the rifle, cradling it while gently running a hoof down its length. “Though you may find it crude, this rifle is one of the least barbaric weapons utilized by the many races of the universe. The tau may be many things, but at least their weapons have a certain aesthetic flare to them which cannot be said of the majority of aliens.”

“Wait, aliens?” Twilight asked, her eyes sparkling.

“There are many, and I will tell you of them later,” Rarity retorted, deactivating the pulse rifle with a touch. “Right now I am informing you why handling any of my weapons without my knowledge will likely be a death sentence for yourself or possible dozens of others.”

“Really? But these things just look like really big metal pineapples,” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, juggling three Krak grenades in her hooves.

“Give me those!” Rarity shrieked, snatching the grenades out of the air.

“Hey? I was juggling those!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

“You will not steal one of my weapons again, do you hear me?” Rarity hissed. “If one of these things went off we would all die, half the train would have been vaporized, and the ensuing crash would likely kill every last passenger.”

Pinkie Pie sniffed. “I-I didn't know.”

“Yeah, she didn't know. None of us did, so don't be too harsh on her,” Rainbow Dash interjected.

Rarity sighed and ran a hoof down her face. “I don't think you quite understand the lethality of these weapons. The pulse rifle can rip through the heaviest plate mail Equestria has ever produced like its tissue paper. A single one of these metal pineapples as you called them could bring down a castle. And my shotgun could turn a dragon into a blood-red mist in a single shot. Do you understand now as to why you should not pilfer my wargear?”

The five mares and one dragon all recoiled in horror, pushing themselves away from the glowering unicorn standing over them. Some seemed on the verge of tears, others were concerned, together it was enough to shock Rarity out of her ire. Sitting back down, the former fashionista ran a hoof through her mane and took a long, steadying breath.

“I am sorry about that darlings,” Rarity began. “I simply do not want anyone to get hurt.”

“Then why do you even still have them?” Twilight asked gently.

“I…” Rarity hesitated. “I cannot part with them. They have saved my life so many times that I would sooner give up my magic than part with them.”

“But it ain't like you need ‘em here,” Applejack offered, gesturing around their private cabin. “Ain't no one here gonna attack ya or nothin'.”

“That is good, as I had hoped to never be forced to use them,” Rarity replied, mag-locking each of the grenades to her side once more.

Twilight cleared her throat. “So, why don't you tell us more about them then?”

“As I mentioned, these are explosives,” Rarity explained, tapping the oblong metal spheres. “They are referred to as Krak grenades by their makers and they are intended to tear through enemy armor or a bunker. They are exceptionally good at this task, and can even be used against large Tyranid bioforms in a pinch.”

“Tyrawhatsis?” Rainbow Dash muttered, scratching her head.

“Don't worry about it,” Rarity exclaimed.

“Interesting, and what does that big metal box do?” Twilight inquired, gesturing to the bulky gun still strapped to Rarity’s side.

Rarity hefted the weapon onto her lap. “This is a vox legi-pattern arbites combat shotgun, or as I call it, the mace.”

“Sounds dangerous,” Fluttershy murmured.

“Oh incredibly so,” Rarity agreed. “This is a truly formidable weapon that will give even the most brutish foe pause. Made for the cruel police force of the humans, it is versatile, if a bit boxy and unsubtle.”

“Does it shoot plasma like the last one?” Twilight inquired.

“Sure don't look like it,” Applejack remarked.

“Indeed it doesn't, my dear,” Rarity stated, tapping the side of the long pump-action shotgun that was nearly half as large as a normal pony. “It is valued as much for its stopping power as the intimidation factor it brings along.”

“So what exactly does it do?” Twilight prompted.

Rarity blinked. “Oh um sorry about that darling. I am rather fond of this rather brutish thing.”

“So we can see,” Applejack murmured.

Rarity cleared her throat. “Anyway. It can fire a variety of shells, such as the rare nonlethal variety, dragon’s breath, flechette, and many more. Primarily however it fires a spread of pellets at incredible velocities, making short work of whatever ruffian that is attempting to ruin my mane.”

“Sounds violent,” Fluttershy murmured.

“And not fun at all,” Pinkie Pie added.

“Oh not in the slightest,” Rarity stated, mag-locking the weapon to her side once more. “It is a cudgel with which to beat your foes over the head with and has little practical application out of its ability to kill.”

The cabin was quiet for several seconds, with its inhabitants all observing the weapons with newfound respect.

“Have you ever had to use them?” Spike asked hesitantly, speaking up for the first time in several minutes.

“Many times,” Rarity quickly admitted. “I do not relish this fact, but it was necessary I’m afraid.”

“W-wait,” Fluttershy interrupted, waving her forehooves. “Does that mean that you’ve killed ponies?”

Rarity hesitated for a moment, the horrified looks of her friends giving her a brief pause.

“I have never killed a pony,” Rarity answered.

“What about aliens? Or… dragons?” Spike whispered.

Rarity sighed, and leaned in Spike’s direction, ignoring the slight twinge of fear that shot through the male. “I have never injured a dragon, nor have I killed unnecessarily. You must understand that out there things are far more dangerous than you can even imagine.”

“I dunno. I got a pretty good imagination,” Applejack muttered.

“There are giant bugs the size of castles who consume entire planets. Brutish creatures whose greatest and only desire is to fight, kill and die. Entire worlds routinely get exterminated by city-sized spacecraft that can chart the great void of space,” Rarity shook her head. “There is more but I think you understand what I am saying.”

“There's a lotta nasty stuff out there,” Pinkie Pie summarized.

Rarity snorted, her hooves crossed over her chest. “That is an understatement.”

“Wow, that is a lot,” Twilight murmured, the mare hastily scratching a series of notes. “What about your armor though? Why do you keep wearing it?”

“I do not have a choice in the matter,” Rarity muttered, running a hoof over the durable breastplate strapped to her chest. “One too many close encounters with chaos and the immaterium have left me bonded to it. Thankfully It is not detrimental to my health, and is at least moderately stylish.”

“I’m so sorry,” Fluttershy whispered.

Rarity waved a hoof in the air. “Don't be darling. Like my weapons, this set of armor has saved my skin more times than I can count.”

“Still. I can hardly imagine you not being able to change your clothes,” Spike pointed out.

“But I can still wear things over it,” Rarity corrected. “Yes that shall be a challenge, but not one so great that it is impossible to surpass.”

“What is it made of? Is it why your tail is so long and fleshy?” Twilight asked, opening her mouth to fire off another inquiry.

Rarity’s raised hoof stopped that from happening, however. “I will tell more on that subject soon enough. Now it is my turn to ask a few questions, starting with; where exactly is Discord being held?”

“In the dungeons under the castle,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “I wouldn't worry about it though. He isn't about to break out.”

“Discord voluntarily gave himself up,” Fluttershy added. “He is quite a sweetheart under all that bluster.”

“It was quite sweet of him to try to kill me,” Rarity deadpanned, rolling her eyes in disgust. “What a strange sense of kindness he has.”

“He didn't try to kill you. Just… send you away,” Twilight explained.

“Spare me the semantics,” Rarity retorted. “The monster put me through tortures my previous self could have never dreamed of even in her most perverse of nightmares.”

“He is,” Fluttershy urged. “He just wanted a friend, that's why he sided with Tirek.”

“Oh boo hoo,” Rarity mocked. “The big bad evil god of chaos undivided just wanted someone to hold him. Now I’m supposed to forgive him for putting me through literal and metaphorical hell. What do you want me to do? Just forget about all the pain and horrors he put me through?”

Fluttershy winced, retreating behind her mane. “Well no, but think about it? He was very important in beating Tirek.”

“I don't need Applejack’s weird ability to detect a lie to know a fib when I hear one,” Rarity stated.

“It's true,” Applejack offered. “Tirek turned on Discord and stole most of his magic. The mixed-up noodle can barely conjure a cake nowadays.”

“Interesting,” Rarity murmured.

Twilight opened her mouth to respond, eager to assuage Rarity’s apparent violent urges but again she was cut off. This time it was not by someone, but rather something, with that thing being the whistle of the train. The loud, shrill sound pierced the cabin like a knife, causing the conversation to end abruptly.

“It seems like we are here,” Rarity exclaimed simply, strapping her pulse rifle to her side. “I am intrigued to see what this Everfree city looks like.”

Twilight sighed and rose alongside the rest of her friends. “Let's just focus on the positives. You’re back, we’re all okay and now the healing can begin.”

Rarity said nothing, merely walking out of the cabin while the rest of her friends gathered their things and followed after her. Trotting ahead, Rarity made her way out onto the station, where she was immediately struck by the odd beauty before her. Gone was the chaotic, and occasionally downright evil forest, replaced by a welcoming, and verdant wood that felt oddly homey.

All around her towered trees that reached the height of skyscrapers, shrouding even the tallest building in shadow. And there were many of the mostly grey cubes, with a veritable sea of new structures having popped up along the forest floor. Homes, businesses, there was everything a burgeoning city needed all under the bright green leaves of the titanic trees.

Like most pony buildings, there was a harmony to it all, with each construction lending itself well to its neighbors. Creating a moving, shifting mass of wooden properties that never took away too much from the verdant woodland. Bushes, trees, grasses, and even the various other creatures that called this place home could be found amongst the pony’s houses.

As everywhere else in Equestria, harmony reigned, allowing all to live in relative peace.

Even the old and imposing castle appeared resplendent, though it was in the midst of being rebuilt. Its darker exterior had been scrubbed away, revealing a pearly white underside that had silver accents. Though still partially collapsed and sporting several holes, the fortification was a shining beacon, visible even from a mile away.

“Not bad for only two years huh?” Applejack exclaimed proudly. “Everyone’s been doin’ their best to lend a hoof.”

“It's quite something,” Rarity admitted. “I never realized just how much I missed pony aesthetics. They truly are pleasing to the eye.”

“Are you saying your not a pony anymore?” Rainbow Dash pressed.

Rarity rolled her eyes. “I am referring to the aesthetic flourishes.”

“Well, I’m pretty sure you know where you're going, but follow me,” Twilight offered.

Rarity nodded, following along as Twilight lead the way toward the castle in the distance. Along the way, the rest of her friends chatted or pointed out various points of interest that they knew of. Though it was intriguing to see how things changed, Rarity largely tuned out the conversation she was only half a part of.

As her gaze was fixed on the various ponies and other creatures that now called the forest home. Where she assumed the majority of creatures would be unicorns, due to the city being mostly Canterlot refugees, but that wasn't quite true. Yes, there were many horned ponies, but there were also numerous races dotting the streets, including the odd minotaur or griffon.

All of whom eyed Rarity with a mix of curiosity, fear and naked intrigue.

It was enough to make the returned mare’s tail to coil around her body protectively. The swirling mists which clung to her eyes grew darker and Rarity couldn't help but glare at a pony staring at her from the shadows. The elderly pegasus gawker quickly backpedaled inside, slamming the door shut firmly and locking it with an audible clunk.

“Hey, ignore them,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, bumping her hip against Rarity. “You know how ponies are, they can be a bit jumpy.”

“Plus you are kind of scary,” Fluttershy whispered.

Rarity grit her teeth. “It's fine. I suppose I have a passing resemblance to a certain crystal-obsessed loony from our past.”

“Speaking of which,” Twilight began, clearing her throat. “Why exactly do your eyes do that, anyway?”

“That shall be revealed in time,” Rarity replied. “I will need to explain a lot of other things before getting to that part and if I jump right into the middle then it will leave you with more questions then answers.”

“Can't have that. Twilight's already got a tome of the things written up,” Spike muttered.

Twilight blushed, and lightly slapped the dragon’s shoulder. “I do not. At most, it's a novella or pamphlet.”

“Suffice it to say, it's not because I took a particular love of crystals,” Rarity joked.

“Well, that's a relief. I thought for sure you used a bunch of dark magic or something loco like that,” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

Rarity held her tongue, remaining silent as they trotted down the street.

“You didn't use dark magic, did you?” Fluttershy asked gently.

Rarity sighed, and turned back on the group, stopping them in their tracks. “Would you please stop prying? My actions will make sense in context and your insistence on ripping away said context is only making things worse for everyone.”

“We're sorry,” Twilight whispered, head held low. “We are all just curious, some more than others, admittedly.”

“Good. Let's just get to the castle so we can start this sordid tale already,” Rarity muttered angrily.

The rest of the walk was done in relative silence, with the only sound being from the normal hustle and bustle of city life. Distant music could be heard, along with conversations drifting on the wind, though it was all somewhat muted. The large, numerous trees contained the general noise, making the walk feel oddly personable in Rarity’s mind.

Regardless, it wasn't overly long, with the main road being open enough to allow the seven easy access and little in the way of traffic. This was due in part to the ponies who fearfully stepped away from the towering, otherworldly unicorn in their midst. Though some were scared, there were also quite a few whose curiosity got the better of them.

A blushing young stallion hastily scampered out of the way of the group, muttering apologies. Then, not long after, a pair of mares pulling a cart stopped and gawked openly at Rarity only snapping out of it when the couple they were pulling began to complain. This was a theme that continued the rest of the way, though Rarity didn't take note of these events, the pony pretending as though they never occurred at all.

Within minutes, the group had crossed a large stone bridge and were approaching the castle. Guards posted near the overpass nodded to Twilight, only to stop and stare briefly at Rarity before looking away. This repeated a few times as they made their way to the gates, where a pair of ponies stood outside with spears raised.

“Greetings heroes, I see you have a guest with you,” the taller male offered, peering intently at Rarity. “One whose presence is as unnerving as it is alluring.”

“My, aren't you forward,” Rarity exclaimed mirthlessly.

“I calls ‘em like I sees ‘em,” replied the guard.

“This is Rarity,” Twilight explained, stepping forward. “I’m sure you remember seeing or at least hearing about her.”

“She’s that missing element,” whispered the shorter guard to his companion. “The one Discord snapped away.”

“Well butter my butt and call me a biscuit, is that true?” asked the first stallion.

“It is,” Rarity exclaimed. “After many trials and tribulations, I have found my way home again.”

“Well, that sure is good to hear. I presume you want to see the princess?” he offered.

“We sure do. Rare’s has got quite the tale to tell,” Applejack answered.

“Alright then just hold on a sec. Gotta scan ya for weapons and if ya turn out to be changelings,” stated the golden armored stallion.

A golden aura washed over the small group, fading quickly, only to flash again, centering on Rarity. The altered unicorn, along with her guns glowed faintly, lighting up like some bizarre hearths warming tree.

“Well ain't that funny,” muttered the guard. “Spells says you ain't a pony, or at least partially ain't a pony. Plus it can't make heads or tails of them tube thingies you got on you.”

“Maybe you should hoof over your weapons,” Twilight offered.

“I will, but not to you,” Rarity exclaimed.

The mare ignited her horn in a blazing corona of dark blue energy, bringing a shimmering portal to appear in front of her. Disconnecting her weapons she placed them on the other side of the hole and closed it with a whizz, pop of magic.

“There. Now then. May we enter?” Rarity inquired sweetly.

“Well, I uh…” the tall guard stallion cleared his throat. “I suppose so. Go on through.”

“Thank you, darling,” Rarity offered, caressing the male’s chin with her long, fleshy tail.

“Anything for you miss,” he muttered dreamily while pushing open the doors.

Rarity stepped inside, the rest of her friends swiftly trotting along behind her to catch up. Applejack was the first of which to do so, and the earth pony shot her tall friend a glare.

“That didn't seem right what you did back there,” Applejack stated.

“Would you have preferred to escalate that situation?” Rarity retorted, raising an eyebrow at Applejack.

“Now wait just a second, that isn't what I meant at all,” Applejack complained.

“It is over Applejack. Let it go, we have larger concerns,” Rarity stated firmly.

Applejack grumbled but reluctantly said nothing. A moment later and the rest of their friends quickly caught up with the pair.

“Uh, the throne room should be just over there, but we may have to wait a minute,” Twilight explained, gesturing down the hall toward a set of double doors. “Morning court may be nearly over, but it will likely be a while given how hectic everything still is.”

“At least the line doesn't look too bad,” Pinkie Pie offered.

Rarity looked over to find that like in Canterlot, those creatures seeking the princesses’ guidance waited near a desk. Only this one was staffed by a surprisingly gruff-looking griffon with a cracked beak and a permanent frown plastered to their face. In his claws was tightly gripped a clipboard filled with names, while next to him stood a pair of guards.

Unlike the majority of guards, these ponies wore silver armor and bore a half-moon on their breastplates. They, unlike their counterparts, were a mix of races, namely pegasus, and earth pony whose features were not obscured. Allowing Rarity to see that they were both different genders, as well as different colorations from one another.

Twilight trotted over to the desk and had a brief, whispered conversation with the surly griffon. Which ended with the male nodding, scratching something on a piece of paper, and shoeing the lavender alicorn away.

“It won't be long,” Twilight offered.

“So…” Rainbow Dash began, teetering back and forth on the tips of her hooves. “I know we aren't supposed to ask questions but when did you get so well… hot?”

“Was I not always?” Rarity replied with a smirk.

“Well yeah, but not like this,” Spike offered, the dragon blushing slightly.

“It was a gift, in a way,” Rarity replied somewhat whimsically. “Though it comes with certain downsides, it is on the whole an appreciated if unasked for gesture.”

Twilight groaned. “I hope you appreciate just how much restraint it's taking not to ask you a million and two questions.”

“Yes you are doing quite well darling,” Rarity complimented, patting the alicorn on the head with her tail. “Keep it up for a little longer, please.”

“Oh fine,” Twilight muttered, pouting profusely.

“Hey is that Princess Celestia?” Pinkie Pie asked, pointing back the way they came.

Rarity turned to find that the usually regal mare she had grown up learning about was now her height. Not only that but the regal white alicorn now no longer had the long, flowing mane and tail that Rarity was used to seeing. Instead, they were… normal, for lack of a better word, and appeared to be simple hair rather than a flowing rainbow attached to Celestia’s scalp.

“Sun and stars, is it really you?” Celestia whispered in a low tone, the mare looking up at Rarity. “You certainly have undergone quite the makeover.”

“Indeed I have. Not all of it voluntary,” Rarity answered.

Celestia glanced over at Twilight. “I’m assuming you have verified her identity?”

“Yes, several times by now,” Twilight answered. “Though changed, she is indeed the Rarity we lost that day.”

Celestia trotted up to Rarity and pulled the other mare into a tight hug. “It is wonderful to see you again dear. You must have quite the story to tell.”

“You don't know the half of it,” Rarity murmured, patting Celestia on the back.

“Well we simply must set aside court for another time,” Celestia began, glancing at the griffon secretary. “Please inform the under-committee that their services are needed.”

The griffon raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure you want to give those glorified fops a modicum of control?”

Celestia laughed and waved a dismissive hoof in the air. “I have nothing more important than cutting ribbons and arguing with impotent former nobles today. Let them handle such mindless bickering.”

“Understood princess,” remarked the griffon with a small, but noticeable smirk.

“Now then,” Celestia began, turning back to the group. “Perhaps we should head somewhere more comfortable?”

“The tea room was finished, right?” Twilight inquired.

Celestia smiled. “Excellent idea Twilight. We shall be in the tea room if anyone needs us.”

“Send my sister, and parents there when they arrive,” Rarity added.

“Shouldn't be long,” Rainbow Dash offered. “When I flew by their place they were just closing up shop before they headed over here.”

“Shop?” Rarity inquired.

“They kept your store open,” Fluttershy answered. “Sweetie Belle took up sewing, and your mother operated the counter. Though they mostly reproduced your designs, Sweetie has gotten quite good.”

Rarity hummed softly. “How sweet of them. I must think of some way to thank them once I have told my tale.”

“Right then, shall we?” Celestia offered, extending a hoof towards a side passage.

“After you,” Rarity replied.

Celestia smiled and took the lead, trotting away along with the rest of the group, minus Rarity. Who had noticed the door to the throne room had opened, revealing a resplendent Luna walking towards her. Like Celestia, the alicorn was changed, with her right forehoof now replaced with a metal alternative in addition to a few new scars.

None were overly deep, but together they gave the dark princess an intimidating air about her. Rarity, however, was unbothered by the other mare’s appearance, and even found that Luna appeared rather attractive. For once, Rarity herself was the one to blush and approach the object of her fascination, a soft smile on her face.

“Hello again, princess Luna,” Rarity offered, extending a hoof.

Luna took the pony’s hoof and kissed it gently, a grin crossing her face as well. “A pleasure to see you again dear Rarity. I admit I had given up on ever getting the chance to have that private soiree we spoke of all those years ago.”

“Well unless some evil chaos god plucks me away, I don't intend on leaving anytime soon,” Rarity replied.

“I doubt that will happen. Discord is quite content to spend his days in the dungeon,” Luna exclaimed.

“I was about to join your sister and my friends to recount the tale of my adventures. If you would like to join…” Rarity half offered, half stated.

“I will have to send someone for the extra strong coffee, but I believe I could attend for at least a little while,” Luna answered.

Pinkie Pie peeked her head out from around the corner. “Oh, there you are. We thought you got lost for a second there.”

“No need to worry darling, I am in capable hooves now,” Rarity stated, her tail caressing Luna’s forelegs in emphasis.

“So it would seem,” Pinkie Pie replied, giggling as she disappeared around the corner.

“It seems as though your trip has changed you,” Luna pointed out.

The pair followed after the pink pony, taking a slow, unhurried pace.

“Not for the worse, I hope?” Rarity inquired somewhat nervously.

Luna smirked. “I wouldn't say so. At least now I can look you in the eye. Even if those gorgeous pools have been besmirched somewhat.’

“Ah yes,” Rarity murmured, brushing a hoof through the flowing pink energy cascading from the edge of her eyes. “There is not much I can do about that I am afraid. Make-up remover has its limits you know.”

“Too true,” Luna murmured, a hoof touching a deep scar on her neck..

The pair walked in silence for several seconds, catching occasional glimpses of the other group ahead of them. They passed by maids, servants, or other staff, who mostly kept to themselves and stayed far out of the way. A few stopped to stare, but thankfully they were in the clear minority and had the decency to not get underhoof.

“So,” Rarity began. “Am I right in saying that Celestia has lost her magic?”

Luna sighed. “I’m afraid so. She is still an alicorn, so she will live a very long time, but she will not be capable of casting a spell for the rest of her life.”

“Who raises the sun then?” Rarity inquired, glancing at the dark alicorn out of the corner of her eye.

“I do, but hopefully Twilight will take over that particular duty,” Luna frowned. “I have certainly gained a greater appreciation for Celestia’s burden during my exile. Moving a celestial body that isn't my moon is incredibly taxing.”

“You certainly don't seem to have any trouble doing so now,” Rarity pointed out, her tail caressing down Luna’s spine and causing the alicorn to quiver slightly.

“What are you?-oh…” Luna blushed. “I appreciate the compliment dame Rarity. There are many who find us intimidating or pitiable in our current state.”

“Then they are shallow fools,” Rarity stated confidently. “You’re true beauty remains unblemished my dear.”

“I… thank you,” Luna muttered somewhat half-heartedly.

“Ahh there you guys are,” Twilight offered, the mare standing in the doorway of a room with a smile on her face. “We ordered some snacks and coffee with extra espresso.”

“Wonderful,” Luna exclaimed with a sigh.

Rarity entered the room to find that it was a comfortable and surprisingly large space filled with puffy furniture. Though not nearly as opulent as Canterlot castle, it was homey, and relaxing, with a small fireplace sitting in the corner. No staff were present, only Rarity’s friends, the princesses, and a couple of pads of paper arrayed in front of Twilight.

“Your majesty,” whispered a pony. “I’m sorry to announce that the train containing Rarity’s family is delayed for the time being. Apparently, there was some manner of issue with the engine that could not be immediately remedied. Hard Nose thought it best to notify you of this immediately.”

The servant then ducked away, closing the doors behind him with a soft, thump.

“Most unfortunate,” Celestia exclaimed.

“Indeed,” Rarity muttered. “I suppose we should start with a short tale to begin. Hopefully, by then the others will be here.”

“If you want to. I know I’m eager to hear more about your travels, but no rush,” Twilight hurriedly stated.

“No, that's quite alright,” Rarity replied, seating herself on a mound of pillows. “Now then, before we begin I had a question for the princesses.”

“Go ahead,” Luna offered.

“We will try to answer to the best of our abilities,” Celestia added.

“Well, there's no two ways about this…” Rarity frowned. “How exactly is Equestria so peaceful? This galaxy, this universe, it is unimaginably dangerous.”

Luna and Celestia exchanged a curious glance.

“I’m afraid we aren't quite sure what you mean,” Luna remarked.

“You forget sister. Mother warned us of the greater outside,” Celestia exclaimed. “It is why she and the other immortals of the time erected a barrier around our little solar system. One that I was told would keep us safe from those who may harm our peaceful little ponies.”

“So that is what she meant by that,” Luna muttered, tapping her chin. “She was so cryptic about the entire thing that I guess I just ignored it like her other vague warnings.”

“Yes, mother had a habit of being purposefully obtuse,” Celestia admitted.

“Wait, barrier, the rest of the galaxy, what are y'all talkin' about?” Applejack demanded.

“You will know soon enough,” Rarity sat up, clearing her throat. “Our story starts immediately after my forceful departure from this world and picks up on a faraway planet. One much like our own, but also one that is so very, very different.”

Author's Note

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