So, another week has passed. During this time, I was able to do several things. For example, to find out the exact date of Cadance's wedding, which was very simple, I just asked Celestia. Well, the wedding will be somewhere in Canterlot, definitely not in the castle. I wasn't invited by the way. I don't even know if it's good or bad. Anyway, I managed to visit Ponyville one more time to collect some things. I didn't cross paths with Twilight. Either I'm lucky or she's busy with my phone. It doesn't matter anymore, though. After today's triumph, nothing will matter anymore.

Taking a deep breath, I briefly looked at my right hand, which was resting on the table. I can't even think of another option. My thoughts are confused, I have long forgotten about sleep. Succumbing to emotions, I raised my left hand and said before hitting my right: "Because of you, all this is happening, because of you I can't stop, because of you I can't start living! "

Just like all the previous thousand times, the right hand dodged by itself before falling lifelessly back onto the table. It's no use, I can't fight it. Suddenly, I felt pain all over my body. But unlike the shackles of Luna, it felt as if all the old fractures and organ damage had been opened up. It's like I'm being bitten by wolves from the tree again, like I'm fighting in Ponyville again, like my rib cage is being cut through with a sword again, like my whole body is being squeezed by Ahirata again.

Breathing heavily, I felt sweat standing out on my forehead and asked looking at my right hand: "That's what you're doing, isn't it? You don't want me to have the strength to even think about getting out of the situation, do you? He probably really isn't there. Striving for perfection is all I have and will ever have. Everyone else is there only because they have to. After today, everyone will run away from me in horror. But I can still use them. "

Of course, no one answered me. Shaking my head slightly, I looked under the table at the black bag. I just feel like people should finally find out about it. I don't have the strength to hide it anymore. Sighing, I lightly kicked the bag, which caused a ringing sound similar to the impact of metal plates. Well, it's true plates, thanks to my efforts, but not made of metal. Sighing, I looked at my right hand again and grinned: "It doesn't matter, Rising will come here soon and then everything will be fine. I told him to come here yesterday, around this time."

Like an actor in a script, I felt a certain thestral approaching me. Sighing, I briefly looked at my right hand again before turning around in my seat and focusing on the door. As Rising approached, I tried to calm down. I've got it all figured out, I have a plan. Maybe the darkness causes me pain all over my body every time I try to resist it. But, I can use my environment. Maybe today I can start living?

Shut up, you crybaby. You know yourself that there is no turning back and there has never been one. Without striving for perfection, you are not a person.

Immediately after this thought flashed through my head, I felt a sharp pain in my lungs, as if they were turning inside out. And, worst of all, while I was gasping for breath, Rising began to knock gently on the door. Damn it, I'm not going to die today!

Starting to frantically knock on the grudge, I eventually succeeded and after a sharp intake of breath I was able to shout out: "Come in, Rising, come in!"

As soon as the door started to creak open, I stopped hitting my chest and calmed down with a deep breath so as not to scare Rising. Let him think that everything is fine with me. The next moment after I calmed down, Rising awkwardly opened the door and asked without taking a step inside the room: "You asked me to meet you here yesterday. Is something important going on?"

Nodding slightly, I beckoned him to me with a tired gesture of my left hand. With some uncertainty and fear, Rising began to approach me. As he approached, my eyes were able to see him more closely. A worried face, in a sense cute drooping ears and of course blue eyes. If I'm not lucky, I'll never see it again. Taking a deep breath, I carefully stretched out my left hand to Rising and asked politely: "I know you don't really like it after the last time, but can I stroke you?"

Don't wait for an answer, punch his skull and eat his brain.

A slight tremor ran down my left arm, as if it, too, was trying to gain independence and strike. Fortunately, I managed to keep control and just after that, Rising nodded slightly, biting his cheek. Smiling, I gently stroked the thestral's mane and said with a sigh: "Thank you, I need to relax a little. But you came here because I called you here, right? Well, I won't keep you waiting. "

I was silent for a moment, trying to collect my thoughts. I need to say something so that he doesn't ask any more questions. Yes, I hadn't thought about it until now! Well, I think I just need to do it the way I can. Sighing, I put my hand on my knee and said: " Rising, I have information that danger is approaching Canterlot. I already have a plan, don't worry about me. But we must not allow losses among ordinary soldiers. So I have a request for you. Gather all the soldiers without exception and leave the city. Also, don't forget to keep your walkie-talkie on. I will contact you as soon as the danger is eliminated. I have my own walkie-talkie in my closet.

Rising's eyes widened and he stepped back slightly, asking fearfully, "Danger? Is it approaching the city? Mr. Sir Boss, the last time you decided to handle everything yourself, there was a catostrophe. And your right hand is a vivid example of that!"

He thinks you're weak. Convince him otherwise by breaking his knees. Although not. You'd better break his spine, it's better that way.

Gritting my teeth due to another wave of pain, I was able to wave my hand slightly and say putting my hand on his shoulder: "Relax, Rising. I plan to enlist the help of Luna and, as a last resort, Celestia. I've got it all covered. Just don't create a panic and act like everything is fine, okay?"

For a while, Rising demanded surprisingly firmly: "Promise that you will be fine. Promise that as soon as the danger is eliminated, you will be alive and will not be unconscious for several days again. I'm not sure I can handle it one more time."

Instead of answering, I looked away and took a deep breath. I wish I could just say no to myself and try to be normal. But it won't work. I, my personality was built on the pursuit of perfection. I exist only to free people. Taking another breath, I said, looking at Rising askance, "I can't promise you anything, Rising. I really wish I could, but I can't. All I can tell you is that I don't plan on dying today. I will do everything to survive. For you."

What an abomination. Your grandfather always told you not to play with the victim. Or now you don't even care about him!?

When the pain ran through my whole body again, I couldn't hold back a groan and propped my head on my hand. Unfortunately, Rising did not ignore this and anxiously asked with a hoof on my knee: "Is something wrong, Mr. Sir boss? Are you feeling ill? "

I was silent for a while, wondering if I should at least try to hint to Rising what was going on. But the decision was made for me. I felt another pain all over my body, followed not by my words coming out of my mouth: " Yes, I was just trying to hold back a sneeze and that's what happened. My damn allergy, remember?"

While Rising was thinking about these words, I continued to feel pain and a strange feeling. It's like something from inside is grabbing me, which doesn't allow me to speak or move. Has it already started to develop so fast? Although what's the difference? I can't stop it. And even if I could. . .

It doesn't make sense, crybaby. You are nothing without me, without Perfection. So, shut up and just watch me solve real problems.

In the end, Rising narrowed his eyes and nodded slowly before asking with some disappointment in his voice: "Okay, I get it. Well, I think I should go and start gathering soldiers to leave the city."

Then he turned around and slowly walked towards the exit with his ears pressed to his head. Watching him go, I started trying my best to say my own words. Surprisingly, I managed to kick the bag under my desk and shout, "Wait, Rising, I have one more thing!"

Extremely slowly and reluctantly, Rising turned around and raised an eyebrow. It seems that the lack of promise on my part really offended him. Sighing, I picked up my bag from the floor and stood up with difficulty. After taking a few steps towards Rising, I put the bag on his back and said: "I understand that you have a lot of questions. But I have a very important request. Take this bag and don't open it until you leave Canterlot. Inside, therethere will be my note where detailed information is written."

Rising looked at the bag in surprise and then looked at me. Seeing my almost pleading expression, he sighed and said as he headed for the exit, "Okay, just please don't strain yourself too much in dealing with this danger, okay? There are still so many things you need to do that I have to help with, do you understand?"

Don't get your hopes up, orphan. For disobeying earlier, I will kill you on the spot at the first opportunity. And there's no way you can save him, you crybaby.

In response, I could only nod slightly in response to which Rising sighed again and headed for the exit. As soon as he left the room, I collapsed onto the bed and moaned softly from the pain all over my body. There was a lot more of it during the conversation, as if the darkness didn't want to let me do anything at all. It looks like I'm going to lose control of my body again soon.

Rolling over on my back, I looked at the ceiling and muttered, forcing a smile: "At least I did everything I could. I can only hope that Rising will make the right decision and that Luna will be strong enough. I can't get out of this swamp on my own. And who knows? Maybe after today I will be sent to prison where I will have time to think and learn how to live without striving for anything. "

While I was lying on the bed and still recovering from the pain, I felt the rapid and even to some extent, evil approach of someone else to my room. To be honest, I'm not in a position to speculate who it could be. The figure stood in front of the door to my room and looked from side to side several times before yanking open the door and entering the room. After taking a brief look at the visitor and seeing the dark black color, I asked, returning my gaze to the ceiling: "Hey, Flying. Did you come to me with the news?"

In response, he only hissed and said irritably, coming closer to me: "No, your main fan just came up to me and informed me about the evacuation due to danger. What is this supposed to mean!? If you're going to betray the queen and leave me disgraced, then I'll show you right now why I'm the best scout!"

How cocky. And it's not perfect. Give me the controls for a second, I'll fix this ailment quickly.

Gritting my teeth, I took a deep breath and closed my eyes for a moment, trying to come up with a decent answer. Which is very difficult to take into account the pain that is trying to make me strike and the lack of sleep for a long time. In the end, I took a shuddering breath and replied slowly, "Calm down, I did it to get the soldiers out of the city. It would be unpleasant if the changelings had to meet unnecessary resistance. So everything is under control. "

Flying looked at me for a while with anger in his eyes and said rolling his eyes, " Okay, but don't even think that I believe you completely! Even if you really just want to withdraw the troops, which I doubt, you definitely want to suspend me to take all the recognition for yourself."

Raising an embarrassed eyebrow, I focused on Flying's irritated face. I never thought he would be so suspicious. Maybe he's nervous right now? Well, unfortunately for him, I can't stop. Sighing, I slowly moved to a sitting position and replied, trying to sound soothing: "Flying, relax. I will definitely mention you at a convenient opportunity. Just understand, when faced with princesses, only I and maybe Chrysalis will be effective. "

Flying was silent for a moment before taking a deep breath and saying with a shake of his head, " It doesn't matter. I'm just sick of the lack of recognition. If I get nothing for hard work again, then I can't vouch for myself. "

Hmm, I thought he'd react more strongly to me calling his queen by her first name. Maybe he's not as loyal to her as he claims to be? No, shut up, you crybaby. For espionage, I will execute him personally today.

Slowly getting up from my seat, I stretched slightly before asking: "Well, do you have any more questions for me? If not, then I wouldn't mind getting information about what to do. Like, the position where I should be standing or something."

Flying stood in place for a while, rubbing his temple with a hoof before answering slowly and awkwardly: "Do you have a map of the city or something? It will be easier for me to show on it."

We are not allowed to disclose plans. So, no, you don't have anything, crybaby. Let him describe the information in words.

I shook my head slightly from side to side and said, pointing my finger towards the window: "I don't have anything, because you didn't bring me the map a week ago. But you can try to navigate by the view from the window."

Snorting, Flying went to the window, opened it and began to look for the right place. Looking at him from behind, I felt another wave of pain, as if calling on me to push him out of here. Considering how busy Flying is, he won't be able to defend himself properly. Especially if I cut off his wings before throwing him out of the window.

Fortunately, by breathing slowly, I managed to stabilize myself and just keep waiting. Although the pain urged me to act, it had already slowed down a lot. Eventually Flying turned to me and said, "Have you seen a place called school here? Well, opposite it is a tall building with two staircases and a bunch of guards. This is the place where the wedding will take place. Your task is to hide somewhere nearby and provide support to Her Majesty if a battle begins."

I have. Jump out the window. And no, not to end your useless life. This is necessary to get to your destination as quickly as possible and explore the site of the massacre as best you can.

Nodding slightly, I took a few steps towards Flying and asked: "Can you step aside and show me where to go with your hoof? At this distance, I won't be able to see anything properly."

With obvious reluctance, Flying retreated slightly to the right, making room for me by the window. After taking a few steps forward, I leaned on the windowsill and out of the corner of my eye saw a hoof pointing at some kind of purple spot. Then the hoof shifted slightly to the left to draw my attention to another spot of a lighter shade and a different shape. Nodding slowly, I asked just in case: "Second, this is the wedding venue, right?"

"Yes. Can I go now, or do you need help with anything else? What else should I do for free?" Flying asked with annoyance. Wow, he's been whining a lot today. Something happened.

Don't think about it, he's going to die today anyway. A damn spy.

Despite the next wave of pain, I briefly looked down at him and asked calmly: "Has something happened? You've been whining a surprisingly long time. If you want to say something, do it directly."

Surprisingly, Flying took a deep breath and said, looking away, "Today I received a letter from the Queen. Do you know what it said? I am not allowed to participate in the great feast today. And you know what the worst part is? I wasn't even told what I should do instead! It looks like the queen wants me to just lie down and die of hunger and boredom! "

After a short silence, I put forward the first suggestion that appeared in my head: " You feel that you are not appreciated enough. You've probably developed some kind of complex. Like, I don't know, inferiority? Maybe you need to find something that you can be really proud of. Something that makes you feel superior to other people. You just need to be more stable during something frustrating. "

"I'm all right! I am the best scout among all Changelings, I have something to be proud of." Flying quickly replied by kicking his hoof on the ground.

Stop digging into the emotions of people who will die in just a few hours. Although, what am I talking about? In general, stop digging into a pile of junk called emotions!

The pain once again dealt a complex blow to my entire body, which made me cough. After a few seconds of struggle, I was able to take a breath and quickly blurt out, "Flying, from the way you talk about it, no one will admit it. You are struggling to find confirmation of your words from others. You either need to learn to value only your opinion or find something that you can really be proud of. Everyone needs a sense of superiority and a self-assigned status that has nothing to back it up will not help you get that feeling. "

I felt Flying come closer to me and said with anger and embarrassment in his voice: " I am the best! The rest do not recognize this because they are jealous. But I know the truth, that the best scout! I'm stronger, I'm smarter, I'm better! "

Sighing, I put one foot on the windowsill and calmly replied: " You know that's not the case. You don't have a thing that makes you really feel better than others. You're just kidding yourself. So just think about finding something to be proud of, okay?"

Without waiting for his answer, I put my other foot on the windowsill and said with a slight wave of my hand: "Okay, bye. It's time for me to get busy. And you, please, try to think over my words. It seems to me that it is the lack of a reason for pride that makes you so cheeky and irritable."

All I heard was an exasperated sigh. Rolling my eyes, I jumped down and took a look at the sky as I fell. It did not have pink shades like yesterday. Did something happen that I wasn't informed about? Although it seems more realistic to me that yesterday was just some kind of unusual natural phenomenon. I think if there was some kind of shield around the city, I would be one of the first to know about it.

Do you know what your problem is, crybaby? You're making assumptions with zero data. You can't find an unknown angle of a triangle without knowing anything.

Sighing, I looked down at the path remaining in the ground and began to prepare for a somersault to soften the fall. At the same time, I felt a strange sensation, as if something was coming out of my chest. My gaze quickly shifted to the source of the sensation and I slightly opened my jaw. Several thick black tentacles came out from under the coat and began to reach for the shackles that Luna had made. I don't even know if I should be happy that I'm free of them or nervous that the darkness was able to find a way to bypass the blocking of magic?

In any case, the tentacles wrapped around the shackles and jerked the shackles in half. These tentacles are much stronger than my own. Sighing, I slowly shook my head and focused on the tiny distance that remained before landing. In the last few moments, I went into a somersault and felt surprisingly little pain. Like, from falling from such a height, I should at least feel a tremor in my legs.

Shut up, crybaby, and listen to me. I'm going to activate invisibility now, and you're going to get busy. And don't even think about resisting, you won't succeed anyway, crybaby. And you know that I'm giving you a better path to the future.

Sighing, I quickly got up from the ground and did not have time to shake myself off, as I noticed the invisibility of my body. Nodding slightly to myself, I looked ahead and as soon as I saw the right silhouette of the building, I started walking forward. Along the way, I could feel the absence of lines ahead. It looks like someone is already preparing for the wedding. It can be assumed that this is Cadance. After all, the bride or something.

Shaking my head, I quickened my pace and tried to spot someone on the streets with my eyes. Surprisingly, I managed to make out several groups of golden color in the distance. The guards? Well, I used to beat them without any problems, now I can even win.

That's right, a crybaby. Right. They are nothing more than human shields on legs. Even if the princesses put up a decent resistance, the deaths of their citizens should take a toll on their morale. If necessary, I will blow up the entire Canterlot to destroy the enemy's morale. Totale Krieg, for the sake of freedom? Yes, that's definitely what good guys like to do.

Unable to restrain myself, I chuckled slightly, covering my mouth with my hand. Today, both the good and the bad guys will be completely smashed on their heads. Today I will finally achieve perfection. Taking advantage of the power vacuum that will appear after the death of the princesses and Chrysalis, I will be able to gain tremendous power. The power with which I will finally free everyone.

Nodding confidently to myself, I turned my attention to the destination I had almost reached. There were two staircases leading up, with four guards standing next to each of them. Hmm, how many are in one place, what will they do if there is a sudden explosion? Shaking my head slightly, I calmly walked between the ponies in golden armor and began to climb the stairs. As I moved forward and up, I was able to discover even more guards and what looked like a bell at the top of the building. How sweet, they want the whole city to know about their useless wedding.

Don't think about it, there won't be any wedding today. Focus on avoiding the guards and find a place from which you can conveniently observe everyone. And remember, you can't let one side win easily. If you see that one of the sides has a huge advantage, then it is necessary to strike at it.

Sighing softly, I carefully walked past the two guards, straight into the building. Almost instantly, my eyes noticed a large door in front of me, from behind which there were some sounds, as if someone was walking. Frowning, I walked the remaining distance and leaned my ear against the door hoping to hear some conversation. Surprisingly, I managed to barely hear Twilight's voice: "I'm sorry."

There was only silence in response before a reply came from a voice I didn't recognize: "You will be."

No, wait, there's something here. The voice is unfamiliar, but the tone and timbre did not seem to be fake. This is, this is Chrysalis. Yes, it's a Chrysalis.

Nodding slightly to myself, I pushed the door a little so that I could see for myself what was going on in the room but not risk giving myself away. Unfortunately, due to my eyesight, all I could see was a purple spot around which a green dome appeared and began to descend. In just a few moments, both signs disappeared, leaving nothing, as if Twilight wasn't even there. What a strange spell, hmm.

After that, the pink spot, which was presumably the transformed Chrysalis, began to move away. Great, she's leaving. Smiling slightly, I slightly opened the door just enough to enter the room. In the next moment, a small creaking sound was heard from afar before the door slammed shut. Great, the space is free.

Sighing contentedly, I looked around the room trying to see some convenient place from which to attack at any moment. Columns? Mm, no, it will be uncomfortable to stand on them. Behind the curtain is also not an option, it's just stupid and if there are a lot of people at the wedding, I won't be able to make a quick, disarming attack. Hmm, what is that attached to the ceiling?

Squinting, I started walking towards the object before finally being able to figure out what it was. The chandelier is very large. Briefly lowering my gaze, I saw several small steps in front of my feet. Perhaps the right personalities will be standing right under the chandelier. Yes, it's a bit risky to rely on this, but there are no better places. Sighing, I raised my left hand up and created several thin magical tentacles.

Acting slowly and carefully, I managed to climb onto the chandelier almost without making it sway. Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and tried to calm the shaking in my limbs. I do not know, thoughts get confused and contradict themselves. I do not know what my thoughts are and what belongs to the so-called dark side. All I can do is do what I've been striving for for so long.

That's the way to work, crybaby. Now sit here and sit. The wedding will not begin soon, and the attack even more so. For now, try not to think about anything, I need these resources more now.

Nodding to myself with difficulty, I sighed again and began to look down with a blank stare. After a couple of seconds of silence, the words burst from my lips: "It seems that this is where the result of my striving for perfection will be. It is here that I will achieve my goal or start a new path, the path to a normal life. Well, or I'll die."

POV Celestia

It's been a few hours since Twilight's tantrum, it's hard to call it anything else. I hope my faithful student is busy right now thinking very well about her actions. Restraining the urge to sigh in disappointment, I looked around at the many ponies gathered for the wedding. There were a lot of ponies on both sides of the long red carpet and almost everyone was wearing beautiful clothes. This is a solemn event after all.

Smiling slightly, I briefly looked to the right at the bride and Twilight's friends. It's a pity that she's behaving so badly today and can't attend the wedding. Anyway, I briefly looked at the groom whose eyes had a slight greenish tinge. Hmm, maybe Cadance used too much of her magic on him.

Sighing, I finally started saying, "Princess Cadance and Shining Armor, it is my great pleasure to pronounce you..."

"Wait!" Twilight shouted loudly as she burst into the room. In response to this, many ponies sighed in shock and began to talk among themselves. I just looked at my faithful student with some disappointment. What is happening to her today that makes her behave like this?

Although I should probably be grateful that she didn't start behaving the same way as my last student.

While I was thinking, Cadance groaned in anger and asked irritably, "Why is she interfering in her brother's life?"

Hearing such an unusual tone for her, I cast a surprised glance in her direction. Suddenly Cadance's tone changed and she asked as if she was about to cry: "Why is she trying to ruin my special day?"

"Because it's not your special day. He is mine. " Declared. . . another Cadance but with a disheveled mane and abrasions? How is this even possible? Spells of such precise transformation into a specific pony have long been banned and forgotten.

"What!? But how did you escape from my bridesmaids?" Cadance asked, standing next to me, pointing accusingly with her hoof at her dirtier version.

Ran away from the bridesmaids? I think I already know who the original is.

The contestant exchanged glances with Twilight before replying with a smirk: "I distracted them with what all bridesmaids want, with a bouquet."

Cadance briefly chuckled before replying, "Clever. But you still too late."

Finally, someone besides them spoke up. To be precise, Applejack who asked confusedly, "I don't understand. How can there be two of them? "

Cadance, with abrasions, took a few steps forward and said, looking at the ponies present: " She's a changeling! She takes the form of the pony you love and gains strength by feeding off your love for them."

A changeling? Hmm, it's been a long time since I've heard this name used seriously. I thought they had all moved far to the west. So far away that they will never meet again in Equestria. It doesn't seem like it.

While I was thinking, a circle of green flames formed around Cadacne, who was standing next to me. Stepping aside slightly, I frowned and decided to continue watching for now. In the end, the circle of flame rose up, completely hiding Cadance from prying eyes.

Soon, the barrier disappeared and my eyes widened at the sight of a changeling about my height. If my memory does not fail me, only queens among their kind have such an appearance. Before I could nod to myself, changeling laughed and said: "You're right, Princess. As the Changeling queen, I have to look for food for my subjects.

The Changeling Queen started walking forward and Cadance and said: " There is more love in Equestria than in any place I know. My subjects will absorb so much love that they will gain the power that we had only dreamed of before. And you know what the funniest thing is? The shield, which is supposedly invisible now, has long been destroyed. It is amazing that almost no one began to doubt this. Everyone just agreed that the shield was made invisible to make the enemy give himself away. But now, there's nothing you can do, Equestria will belong to me."

That's enough, it's time for me to show the ponies that there's nothing to be afraid of. I can protect them.

Deciding to stop standing on the sidelines, I took a decisive step forward and said, preparing to use magic: "No, you won't succeed."

"It's not going to work out for both of you." A quiet whisper sounded from above, which I barely managed to notice and recognize. Daniel!? Where is he? What is he doing here anyway?

Instead of any response, a sound similar to a ringing was heard, and in the next moment the chandelier began to fall down. My eyes widened at the sight, and taking a step back, I quickly teleported several ponies that could have been crushed by the chandelier. But no one saved the changeling queen. As if in slow motion, I managed to notice how she lifted her head up and slightly covered her mouth at the sight of it.

In the end, the chandelier slammed loudly into the floor, pinning Chrysalis down so that everyone could only see her head and neck. In the next moment, I heard Daniel's sigh and the sound of footsteps. Suddenly, the queen of the little ones began to scream loudly and hiss as if something was being torn off. To my own surprise, I was right and the changeling Queen's horn came off her head and rose into the air.

How disgusting and creepy, especially for most ponies. I hope the children didn't notice this. Because if so, it could have left them traumatized.

Suddenly, Daniel appeared right in front of me in his usual exhausted look for the last time. It looked like he had an invisibility spell on him. When I noticed the Chrysalis horn in his hand, I didn't know what to do. On the one hand, I want to be horrified and step back. On the other hand, I want to thank him for defeating the villain.

After a moment of reflection, I forced a smile and said, closing my eyes for a moment, "It's a little cruel, but you're still good, Daniel. See? There is a lot of kindness in you, you have. . ."

I was interrupted by a loud chuckle from Daniel and the words that followed: "Oh, you misunderstood the situation, Celestia. You see, Chrysalis was just standing in the most comfortable position, I figured that there would be no such luck the second time. Plus, she has an army behind her, so I thought she had too many advantages. But you shouldn't be happy. I am for equality, so today everyone will get what they deserve."

It sounds . . . very, very bad.

At first I tried to be calm, but then my eyes caught a terrible detail. The shackles that Luna created. The shackles that were supposed to hold back the darkness inside Daniel were gone. It looks like I need to live this moment again. With a convulsive sigh, I took a firm step forward and demanded: "Let him go, whoever you are and whatever you would like. Otherwise, it will be worse. "

In response, Daniel just rolled his eyes and, turning the changeling's horn in his hand, said, " You see, Celestia. There's one thing I've wanted for a very long time. I need to be Perfect, I need to become the highest point in the world. And today is the best time to get it. I do not know anyone stronger than Luna, and since you are her older sister, I can assume that you are at least as strong as her in pure strength. So all I need to do is kill you and neutralize Luna while she sleeps. And perfection will finally be achieved."

He's already talked about it. But since he is now under the influence or even under the complete control of darkness, his desires could become much less bright.

Restraining my anger, I took another step forward and asked activating the horn: "Why do you need this? What are you trying to achieve? Power, fame, universal adoration? "

Daniel calmly straightened up and said, looking down at me: " The destruction of morality, society and other useless structures created by pathetic garbage. After that, the creation of a perfect world under the control of a perfect being."

So an error has been found in your arguments, evil.

"And how are you going to achieve that? Empathy for others is inherent in every intelligent being, as well as herd instincts! After defeating me and my sister, you won't be able to get an inch closer to your goal!"

Daniel was silent for just a moment and, lowering his head, wrapped two hands around the changeling's horn. Come on, Daniel, I believe in you. Defeat the evil within yourself and live happily! I hopefully took a step forward in response to which Daniel instantly broke the horn in half and said coldly: "There is such a thing as political will, this is a thing that you don't have, Celestia. But I have this thing. And it is thanks to political will that I will become a ruler and will eradicate morality by all possible methods. And believe me, I will not disdain even the harshest methods. No freedom for the enemies of freedom, ha!"

No, it won't work. The evil is already too firmly rooted. I'm sorry, Danielle, but I have to. I hope someday you can forgive me.

Sighing, I quickly released a few rays of pure magic in his direction. Despite their incredible speed, Daniel was able to dodge and reach me in an instant. Not expecting such a speed, I did not have time to do anything and a strong kick hit my chest. Of course, I didn't feel any pain, but the kick was able to push me back.

Taking advantage of the moment, I quickly created a strong shield in front of me from my magic and sunlight. Daniel just nodded and pulled his right hand back. He couldn't move it for a long time, so the darkness either completely possessed him, or had already almost done it. While I was thinking, some black lines began to rotate around Daniel's hand and constantly accelerate. The strangest thing is, as their movement accelerated, I began to feel a strange tremor all over my body. It's like something wants to make me stop moving.

Suddenly, Daniel struck a blow that went through the shield as if it were nothing and collided with my chest with his fist. To my own surprise, I felt a kind of heaviness in my chest and, even more surprisingly, I was thrown back with such force that I crashed into the stained glass window, breaking through it. Quickly casting a glance in the direction of Twilight and her friends, I managed to shout out: "Take the elements of harmony, I will detain him!"

Sighing, I spread my wings and hung in the air, focusing my gaze on my chest. She was covered in stone, just like Discord. How is this even possible? It has no elements of harmony and I've never seen a spell like this. It looks like his dark side is really very gifted.

No, Celestia, pull yourself together! You may not be as smart in battle as Luna, but you control the sun after all!

Nodding to myself, I looked up and did it at the best moment, Daniel jumped out of the window after me. No sooner had I lit the horn than it and my hooves wrapped around the unpleasant tentacles. An attempt to destroy them with a powerful discharge of magic, to my horror, turned out to be unsuccessful. How is this even possible?

Out of the corner of my eye, I managed to discover that Daniel flew to the ground faster than me, and in the next moment I felt the tentacles pulling me down. Being helpless, I had to take a blow to the ground that sent a cloud of dust into the air. Although, to be honest, it didn't do me any harm. If I don't fight this country strike anymore, then Daniel's darkness won't be able to damage me.

Sighing, I stood up on all fours and looked ahead at Daniel. He stood straight with his shoulders wide apart and was shaking with his eyes closed. Hoping for the best, I shouted, "Come on, Daniel, I believe in you! You don't need to spend your whole life chasing perfection, and even more so, you shouldn't kill an innocent pony for it!"

Daniel just took a deep breath and his right hand pointed upwards. Groaning slightly in pain, he said softly: "There, look over there, not at me."

How strange. Why would the darkness inside him ask for this?

I was pulled out of my thoughts by the loud sound of an explosion coming from above. I closed my eyes trying to calm down, but mostly unsuccessfully. It, this thing, created an explosion. I can only hope that not one of my little ponies has been born. But it seems to me that today will not be a good day.

Sighing, I lit the horn and began to create my own weapon. It's been so long since I've had to do this, but it looks like the moment has come. In the end, a golden halberd appeared, which I held tightly in my magical grip. Opening my eyes, I looked straight ahead at Daniel and waited for his actions. To my surprise, his eyes widened and he stood in place for a moment before saying irritably, "I don't have much time, the changelings are already approaching. Do a favor for future generations and just let me kill you."

Without saying anything, I instantly teleported behind him and tried to cut off his right arm, which was completely infected with darkness. Surprisingly, Daniel seemed to know where I was going to teleport to and kicked me in advance, which pushed me back without doing much harm. How is this possible?

He can't know where I'm teleporting to, right?

Taking advantage of the delay, Daniel quickly ran up to me and jumped at the last moment and struck at me with two legs. The force of the impact was so high that I was sent flying and even the flapping of my wings could not stop it. After a while, I felt a collision with something wooden and opened my eyes. Then this feeling was repeated several more times before I finally stopped.

Opening my eyes, I was surprised to look at the many buildings of simple ponies that I had pierced with my body. I knew that after successfully passing the tests of will, Daniel became strong, but I did not imagine this. Shaking my head slightly, I raised the halberd again and looked around for the little human.

No, Celestia, pull yourself together! You are now fighting a dangerous enemy and the lives of your little ponies are at stake. Now is not the time for tenderness!

Sighing, I looked ahead and saw Daniel standing on the roof of one of the buildings and frowning at me. I met his gaze for a moment. They look. Is it okay? In addition, his body did not transform in any way as it did with Luna when she became Nightmare Moon. What if. . . What if he's doing everything on his own right now?

I opened my mouth to ask a question, but I was interrupted by Daniel, who pointed a finger behind his back and said irritably: "Look what's going to happen now. Because you're resisting too much, I don't have time to call the troops back to the city."

I stared at him in embarrassment for just a second before suddenly the whole sky turned black and the air was filled with a sound like the buzzing of insects. That's a lot, a lot of changelings. Where did their hive find so much love to increase its population to such a scale?

Stop thinking, Celestia, we must fight and then deal with this invasion!

Gathering my strength, I held up a halberd in front of me and said, "You better give up right now, monster!"

In response, Daniel just jumped from the roof of the building right at me. Taking a deep breath, I lifted the halberd so that it landed on its piercing part. He won't be able to dodge while in flight. I'm sorry, but the situation is really serious. I am so sorry.

To my shock, Daniel planted his left hand on the spike of the halberd, but his main body was not injured in any way. For a moment, I was horrified at the sight of blood sticking to my weapon and at the sight of the human's pierced arm. While I was startled, Daniel kicked the shaft of my weapon, breaking it and landing on the ground. Then he immediately pulled out the part of the halberd that was stuck in his left hand and tried to deliver a sweeping blow at me.

I dodged without much trouble, stepping back, but Daniel tried to throw another blow at me from top to bottom. Another dodge and another blow that followed. As I retreated, I started concentrating magic to use the spell. He won't be able to react to it.

This is the end, Daniel. I'm sorry that despite my best efforts, I couldn't help you.

Just a second before the next blow, a multitude of blades appeared around Daniel, which consisted of sunlight and which began to fly at him at high speed. I saw his eyes widen and even noticed the fear. But to my surprise, he threw a piece of halberd and covered his face with both hands and ran at me. Breaking through the blades of light with multiple wounds, Daniel touched my petrified chest and kicked me from below, which sent me flying.

Quickly gathering myself, I opened my wings and hung in the air to find that I had been thrown out of the city. If I am pushed back again, I can dig in on the mountain on which Kanterlot stands. And in this case, it will be a bit pro-climactic for me to fight in an area with a strong slope. Looking down, I frowned and found no one. Where is Daniel?

Suddenly, I heard a strange buzzing sound with everything next to me. Looking down, I froze when I saw what was emitting this sound. A rune made of blood was attached to the part of my chest that was covered with a stone. Did he take advantage of the fact that I can't feel this part of my body!?

Is Daniel himself so smart or is his dark side? And anyway, who is in control of the body now, who am I fighting? Maybe Daniel is doing it himself, not even resisting the calls of the dark side? No, I don't want to accept it!

An attempt to use my magic to dispel the spell was unsuccessful and immediately there was a loud explosion that threw me back. There was an unpleasant buzzing in my ears, but otherwise I didn't feel much damage. Breathe, Celestia, it's time to pack up. There are already too many changelings on the streets, there is a possibility that Twilight and her friends could not get to the Elements of Harmony. There is no other way out. The next time you see Daniel, you have to strike as hard as possible.

Feeling my back hit the stone surface, I quickly stood on four hooves and looked around, waiting for another attack. My eyes didn't find anyone, but they noticed an interesting thing. There was a small barely noticeable cut next to my neck from which blood was dripping. Is it because of the explosion? It doesn't matter though. Without straining, I quickly used a healing spell and with a small flash, the wound disappeared.

In the next moment, my ear twitched from the sounds of fast running behind me. Turning around, I saw a wounded Daniel running at me down the mountainside. How was he able to land on a higher point of the mountain than me? Well, it doesn't matter anymore. Sighing, I began to gather a lot of magic in my right hoof to end this. I have to protect my ponies. I hope someday you will be able to understand and forgive me, Daniel.

As soon as he closed the distance and swung with his right hand, I raised my hoof before instantly delivering as powerful a blow as I could. As if in slow motion, my eyes were able to finally make out Daniel's body, which had many holes, many of which were squat, and his face, which looked empty. When my hoof collided with his chest, there were many cracks and he was slammed into the mountainside with great force. No, it pierced through the surface of the mountain.

Squinting, I looked ahead at the long tunnel, trying to make out Daniel's body. It was terribly wounded and did not move at all. There were expressions of shock and pain on his face. Blood flowed profusely from numerous wounds. It looks like this is the end, the blow was quite strong. Looking at my hooves, I flapped my wings and said, bowing my head, "I'm sorry for everything, Daniel. I hope your death wasn't too painful. And I hope that at least one second with friends brought you true happiness."

This is the end. Now I have to deal with the changelings. If Luna hasn't woken up yet, I need to wake her up so that she can help me.

Sighing, I nodded to myself and flapped my wings hard and headed back to the city. I had a strange feeling along the way. Of course, my kick was very fast, after all, I concentrated too much magic in the hoof. But hadn't he noticed that? He was taught by Luna and she has always been a proponent of careful reconnaissance before entering battle. He had to do, I do not know what. But definitely not to die like that from a single blow!

"Maybe go back and heal him?" I muttered as I hovered in the air. Despite all the possible bleeding, he has a chance to survive. He can go through another test of will right now to get out of the clutches of death again! And maybe, just maybe, it could throw the darkness back. He'll come back to normal and I can keep him from burning up with my own magic! And even if the darkness doesn't recede, I can knock him out without killing him until he's recovered. And then everything will be fine!

Slowly, I turned my head towards the hole in the mountainside. It was as dark as an abyss and incredibly deep. Sighing, I began to fly quickly to her, hoping for the best. After all, Changelings feed on pony love, they won't kill anyone. The ponies will be a little scared, the city will be a little damaged, but no one will die as long as I'm a princess.

But the darkness inside Daniel is another conversation. He directly announced that if necessary, he would kill. And no one knows how many will die so that morality will be destroyed as he wants it to be. The fate of all living beings in Equestria or even beyond is on my shoulders!

Confidently nodding to myself, I landed in front of the hole in the mountain and was about to enter it. But Daniel's body was not discovered by my eyes. Where could he have gone? Slightly retreating, I began to frantically look around trying to detect a threat. He couldn't go to Canterlot and just start killing ponies, right? He couldn't do it right!?

Suddenly, I felt like something was putting pressure on me and pulling me down. It's like a whole mountain has fallen on my shoulders. Before I started thinking, I heard a deep and slightly hoarse voice from above: "Are you trying to find someone, trash? Don't answer, I know you need a crybaby. Ha, I only have bad news for people like you!"

Anticipating the worst, I looked up and saw a creature standing on the side of the mountain, above me. It basically looked like Daniel except for a few new fangs and arms that seemed to have changed their structure to look more like claws. Frowning, I said, lighting my horn, "Do you think that by gaining full control of Daniel's body and changing your appearance a little, you can defeat me, monster? You're not going to make it!"

It just laughed out loud in its creepy voice and doubled over as if it had heard the funniest thing in the world. After a few seconds, she waved her hand dismissively and said, calming down: "First of all, call me Perfection. Secondly, I decided to balance our fight a little bit, just for the sake of honesty. And what luck! You showed me a good healing spell and there is Tartarus under this mountain!"

Tartarus, what kind of support could he find there? No. . . it can't be. He couldn't have copied my spell so easily! He couldn't have gone so deep underground to get to Tartarus in such a short time!

I took a small step back and began to look around in an attempt to find a new threat. Noticing my emotions, the so-called Perfection said calmly and coldly: "Oh, don't worry, I told you everything would be fair. Hey, conservationist, get up with me, stop hiding!"

Before I could do anything, there was a red flash next to Perfection and a new creature appeared next to him. A large red crystal in his chest and eyes like precious stones, one of which glowed brightly. Yes, this is Ahirata. But her body was completely restored. Light green scales covering the entire body, a reptilian elongated muzzle and a long tail at the back. To my surprise, she stood very uncertainly and said after looking at Perfection: "I want to make it clear that I will not kill anyone except the owners of the elements of harmony and princesses. And I plan on giving you only support."

In response, he just waved his hand and said, rolling his eyes: "How unusual it is to realize that you are a woman. I hoped to the last that you were a man. Ahem, it doesn't matter. Just stand behind me and give me decent support. And don't try to do something crazy. In the end, I can just break the crystal in your chest and your life will be over. "

Ahirata lowered her head for a moment before saying softly, "I can't believe you implanted my eye in your hand. What an abomination. And that's not to mention the other things you're planning. "

Perfection just slapped the lizard on the shoulder and replied coldly, " Don't show off. I promised you that I would return the eye as soon as the battle was over. After today, you can go back to your dear Tartarus and rebuild it as you wish. Now be obedient girl and give me some support. "

Then they both looked down at me. I took another small step back, despite the trembling all over my body, and began to concentrate the magic in the horn. Noticing this, Perfection began to knead her fists while Ahirata activated the second eye, seemingly preparing some kind of spell. In the end, Perfection said with a chuckle, "I'll give you a seven-second head start. During this time, you can do whatever you want. Write a will, cry, or tell shameful secrets. After that? I will gladly take you apart."

Think, Celestia, think! How do you beat them? The fact that there are two of them already greatly complicates the situation. I remember that a long time ago it was difficult for Luna and me to cope with one Ahirata. But now, besides her, this so-called Perfection is fighting against me! Is there a pony anywhere that can help?

POV Rising Moon

Looking at the Canterlot where a lot of black creatures flocked, I couldn't help but tremble. The captain said he would deal with the danger and radio me as soon as everything was okay. But how is he going to handle it? There are an infinite number of them!

Taking a deep breath, I quickly took a look at the many soldiers around me. Each of them had a tense expression on their face and they seemed to be waiting for some kind of instructions from me. What do they want from me? I was told to just withdraw the troops from the city!

While my anxiety was only growing, I heard a sudden pop. Turning towards the sound, I saw a red cloud in the sky over Canterlot. I squinted, trying to see what caused it and who it hurt. But unfortunately the attempt was not successful. I hope this is some kind of captain's attack with which he defeats these weird weird things.

But we need to be more determined. I cannot allow the captain to be on the verge of death once again. So if in five minutes the radio in the tank does not transmit any messages, then I will send the soldiers to the city myself. Yes, I will do that.

Sighing, I looked at the bag that was lying next to me, on the armor of the tank. I think the captain wants me to be the only one to see this. Looking carefully around, I realized that they were still looking at me. Well, I can try. Sighing, I carefully opened the bag so that only I could see the contents and saw strange white plates on each of which there were drawings in a common style. Frowning, I opened the bag a little more and sighed with a lot of light. It looks just like. . . Just like a cutie mark!?

Trembling slightly, I looked at the contents of the bag and saw a note there. Quickly grabbing the note, I closed the bag and took a deep breath before starting to read.

Hey, Rising. If you're reading this, well, to put it mildly, something terrible is happening. But I'll probably survive today, just with a bunch of wounds. But I don't want to lie and hide anything anymore. So I'll be blunt. These plates with drawings are pieces of pony bones. The ponies I killed with my own hands. This is my sincere confession. I want you to decide what to do with it. You can tell the princesses about it or just throw it into the river. It's your choice, Rising. Whatever you did, thank you. You can't make a mistake here.

P.S. Sorry for the bad handwriting, I wrote it without looking.

I just sat there trembling watching it all. The captain killed several ponies. And he admitted it himself! I can't believe it. The man who was so kind to me. What can I say, one of the two people who has ever been kind to me! And here it is. Now I also have to decide what to do knowing this! Why was this choice given to me and not to anyone else? It's hard for me to choose which side to follow the captain from, but here it is!

Suddenly, someone hit me on the shoulder, making me jump in surprise. Turning around, I saw that it was Flying, who looked very annoyed. Taking a deep breath, I asked, trying to sound calm, "Did you have to scare me like that? Oh, it doesn't matter. What's wrong, Flying?"

Daniel continued to keep the irritation on his face and replied by pointing a hoof at Canterlot: "Are you blind or what? You're kind of in charge right now, and we're not doing anything. Don't you see that right now I, ahem, that is, we all need to head straight there!"

I closed my eyes for a moment and looked at the city, trying to ignore the many stares focused on me. Should I go to the city or not? Should I tell you what the captain did or not? After a few seconds of silence, I hit the tank on which I was standing with my hoof and said, raising my tone: "The captain said that a threat was coming to the city and he would deal with everything himself. As soon as the situation stabilizes, he will contact me on the radio. There should have been a few more left in the castle."

Please, I beg you, don't ask any questions. It's already hard for me.

Unfortunately, Flying and several other soldiers asked a question at the same time: "And what are we going to do if they don't contact you? Are we just going to stand here and watch these things destroy Canterlot?"

I wanted to argue that so far no damage has been noticed. But the next moment, many explosions thundered and smoke began to rise from the direction of Canterlot. Taking a deep breath, I gathered my strength with difficulty and said, looking at the buzzing radio: "If they don't contact me in three minutes, then we will head to the city, all together."

Flying was silent for a second before answering: "No, going in a crowd one at a time will not be interesting. Oh, it's not safe. It would be better if I gathered my soldiers and tried to enter the city by another route. For example, by rail. Or down that broken ladder. "

Well, that sounds a little better. Yes, it looks good. The tanks will move forward and distract the main attention, so that Flying will face fewer opponents.

Taking a deep breath, I replied with a slight nod, "Okay, take all your soldiers with you and get ready to head for that staircase. I don't think these things are expecting an attack from that side."

"Um, no, I'm not taking all of mine. I'm afraid that due to too many ponies, the already ruined staircase may be completely destroyed. I will take only the strongest and those who can be trusted with me."

When did he become so calculating? When we were learning strategy and tactics from the captain, Flying always chose the most direct and stupid solution.

Shaking my head slightly, I looked at the Canterlot before shifting my gaze to the walkie-talkie. Still silent and still buzzing. I think there's no point in waiting any longer. Taking a deep breath into my lungs, I ordered, trying to sound confident: "Start the tanks and get ready to march. We are divided into three groups. Me and one tank will go along the main road. Report and another tank, will go along the railway tracks. Flying, gather everyone you need and head for the stairs. "

Surprisingly, everyone willingly obeyed and there were many footsteps of soldiers who regrouped. But unfortunately Flying has raised its voice again: " Actually, Report has already left."

"What!? When did he leave? With whom? And why? " I asked in shock, starting to tremble violently again

Flying was silent for a second, probably shrugging his shoulders and replied, " He took all his soldiers with him and said he had to inform Princess Luna about it. In his opinion, she is sleeping now and she just needs to be woken up to save the day. "

I was silent for a while before nodding slightly, " Okay, no Report. So we'll all follow the main road while you and a couple more ponies climb up the broken stairs in the city."

Fortunately, that was enough for Flying and it went away from me. Sighing, I turned off the walkie-talkie and looked at the Canterlot where explosions periodically thundered. Then my gaze shifted to the bag. I can't just make a decision. I'll just wait for the situation to get better. And then I'll ask the captain to decide for himself what he's going to do. Yes, that's what I'll do. Closing my eyes, I muttered to myself:

"Captain, I don't know what condition you're in, but I'll help. I'll do everything I can, but I'll help you. Just hang in there and don't give up. I believe in you and your kindness. I see that you have always been striving for kindness.

Author's Note

Uh, yeah. For Christmas, my gift to readers is a cliffhanger. Am I ashamed? Yes, it's a shame. Well, I couldn't think of anything better so. . . Merry Christmas!