[Two Years Ago, 2014, Equestrian Day Not Recorded.]

Twilight returned to Ponyville with Spike on her back after departing from her friends in the Everfree Forest and the near-miss with a hungry cragadile. Once in view of the town interior, she found Discord toying with a severed piece of one of the green vines.

Behind him was another section of the vines holding two ponies captive above the ground.

Berry Punch and Comet Tail both screamed for help while Discord poked at the severed vine that had entrapped them and peered at it in a manner of intrigue and frustration.

“Discord!” Twilight shouted with scorn, assuming the worst.

Having been caught, Discord flinched, almost appearing frightened to have been caught off guard. However, once he noticed it was Twilight, he discarded the piece of vine he’d been examining and then snapped his lion’s paw to summon a giant pair of garden shears that snipped through the pony-ensnaring vine with ease.

The two ponies, now released by the vines, dropped to the ground and immediately sprinted off to safety.

Discord leaned forward, raised his eagle talons to his lips, and shouted to the retreating ponies.

“You’re welcome!”

After the two ponies ran out of sight, Discord turned his attention back to Twilight, a smug look of disinterest on his face.

“You’re back rather soon and alone, no less. Were you and your friends able to solve that little tree problem of yours?”

Twilight appeared to abandon her anger at discord, instead returning to her self-disappointment.

“We ran into some trouble. And my friends decided it would be best if I returned to Ponyville while they continued the search. Equestria will need me if Princess Celestia and Princess Luna don’t return.”

Discord rose with his eyes raised to the sky and his talons held over his chest, holding a pose and an expression as if taken aback or shocked.

“I’m just surprised that you—”

“What were you doing with that vine?” Twilight suddenly asked, looking over her shoulder at Discord.

Discord froze in his semi-dramatic stage pose, not expecting to have been interrupted.

“The what now?”

“The vine,” Twilight asserted. “When I came back and found you, you were looking over a piece of the vine instead of helping those ponies behind you, and you didn’t look too happy about what you were looking at… What do you know about these vines that you’re not telling us?”

In a flowing, fluid motion, Discord dropped the dramatic act and strolled closer to Twilight with a pleasant smile across his lips.

“Well, I suppose since you took notice, there’s no point in playing coy.”

Without so much as hinting at flexing his power, Discord appeared in view with a dark pair of pants and a white shirt with long green sleeves. Once in costume, he walked onto a stage that appeared out of nowhere and continued to the center, where a comically four times normal-oversized gray couch stood.

Twilight was about to ask what Discord was doing when a mass of applause, whistles, and cheers surrounded her. She looked around and realized she was seated in an auditorium by herself. She was a one-mare audience, so the sounds were just another one of Discord’s fabrications.

Meanwhile, in front of her, Discord somersaulted over the couch's armrest and landed on the cushions, bouncing up and standing boldly.

“I want to explain this to you with some style.”

Discord looked out at the audience, which still was only Twilight, and waited for her to laugh. Instead, she only sat, staring at him, equally confused as she was unentertained.

“Right,” Discord awkwardly stated before coughing into his paw. “Well, I wanted to keep this explanation simple, so there's only this one prop. What’s really important is what’s inside.”

He walked over to the right side of the cushion and reached down, pulling out yet another gag item. This one was equally as oversized, not as funny, though probably edible.

“No, this is only a potato chip.”

He reached in again, this time pulling out what looked to be a long feather that was dripping ink.

“Oops. Nope. That’s a quill.”

Again, he reached in, this time dropping to his knees to dig in further and pulling out a book.

“Princess Twilight’s Private Journal. Now, how did that get in there?”

“Hey!” Twilight shouted angrily, watching her book of private thoughts get tossed off stage.

Paying Twilight no mind, Discord crawled forward and pulled out the golden Twi-scepter, then held it up for inspection, almost looking genuinely confused.

“Now, if your journal shouldn’t have been there, this certainly shouldn’t have been in there.”

“DISCORD!” Twilight shouted again, this time even louder.

Giving in and realizing that the Gallagher spoof wasn’t landing the way he wanted, Discord reached in one final time and pulled out the severed piece of vine he’d been examining earlier.

“Here we are! Just your everyday run-of-the-mill magic growing, anti-magic, partially altered, deer kin potion produced vine.”

“Partially altered?” Twilight asked, suddenly feeling her body bounce up into the air.

“Why, yes,” Discord answered, falling out of view from Twilight. “And do you think the font for my name is okay? The retro color isn’t too much? Is the font too hard to read? I think ponies might misread the lowercase D as a double c.”

Twilight looked down to see that she was rising up above the couch. Where the cushions once were, a trampoline had been installed. So, instead of falling back down, she began to flap her wings to flutter in place. Also, the lowercase d did look like a double c had been written in, but that wasn’t important to her.

“Discord! If you didn’t do this! Do you know who did!?”

To answer that question, Discord sprang into view from above Twilight, somehow having bounced down from above instead of from below.

“Oh-ho-ho~ no, but they certainly did a spectacular job at mashing together this masterpiece of chaotic, mish-mashed magic. Sure, it cancels out the magic of whatever it embeds itself into or manages to wrap itself around, but it seems like more of a hindrance if used against you when targeting a specific tree.”

“DISCORD!”

Snapping his taloned claws, Discord had both of them flash out from the air and reappear in a nearby cafe. They were both dressed up in formal attire while Spike stood on a stool in a butler’s uniform, pouring Twilight a cup of tea.

“Twilight,” Discord calmly spoke in a posh manner. “I’d never make something so dangerous that it could be used against me in a way that it could overpower me… That, and if I made an overgrown vine, I think I’d be more partial to black than your garden variety of green. But, you’re right. These vines are much too dangerous for the likes of us.”

Finally snapping out of a trance, Spike stopped in time from overpouring Twilight’s cup of tea while Twilight herself gave Discord a dirty look and grew a sharp tone.

“The likes of us?”

Discord whipped out a fancy napkin and tucked it into his collar as he laughed a cocky, elitist laugh.

“Oh, come now, Twilight. Us! Those who are out here! Enjoying the finer things in life! Not like that stupid tree you’re so protective of. What does it even do for anypony? It wasn’t strong enough to keep itself safe from these vines, and it was so weak that even your friends sent you away to stay out of harm’s way. I say good riddance to that boring old thing. And once your friends get back after figuring out they’re too late, we can all start living far more interesting lives.”

Instantly, Twilight recoiled at the suggestion.

“The Tree of Harmony isn’t weak! And my friends won’t fail!”

The look Discord gave Twilight somehow gave the impression that despite the grin he gave her, he never meant a word of his condescension, and he expected her reaction.

“Oh, well, how silly of me to assume they needed you. All you did was choose to keep your precious princess self out of harm's way while your friends thrust themselves right into danger. It’s not like you’ve done everything together before. I'm sure you'll all be the best of pals again when they return from their terrifying yet deeply bonding experience that they're having without you.”

That seemed to have put Twilight’s mind back on the right track, and she was determined to right the wrong she had started.

“I never should have agreed to come back here.”

In no time at all, and with even less effort, the fancy dress and butler clothes were removed, and Twilight was galloping off back into the Everfree Forest with Spike on her back yet again. Although, the start of their drip did not come without some hesitation from Spike.

“Come on, Twilight. He's just trying to get under your skin.”

True or not, Twilight didn’t care.

“Well, it’s working!”

The story continued on from that point, as Chris would have originally expected. Twilight ended up getting lost in the Everfree Forest at the same time ther remaining Main Six located Harmony’s dwelling. Spike climbed a tree in time to see the others approaching Harmony’s entrance as Twilight was attacked by vines that spat out plumes of spores or some other toxin that began to choke her out. Although, again, these vines were green, not the black vines with blue thorns Discord had created, as Chris remembered from the show.

Regardless, more of the story played out the same, only with the others finding Harmony’s tree not covered in those green vines but merely surrounded by them. Also, of course, once more, this world’s Harmony was a larger and more vile, twisted, thorny tree. Only two massive coils of said vines managed to get close to the tree but never passed the exposed roots near the trunk of the tree itself. Chris already knew what, or more specifically, who were in those coils of vines, but that would all play out in the story eventually.

As to be expected, Spike still showed up on time to pass on the message that Twilight was in danger, the girls showed up in time to rescue her and then return to the cave.

However, after returning to the cave, this was where the story began to change once more. It changed in ways that Chris could not have expected.

Twilight pushed ahead of her friends and flew closer to Harmony’s tree to try and inspect the overgrowth as well as what lay beyond it. Of course, the vines sprung forth and latched around Twilight's forehoof, causing her to sever the attachment with a quick blast from her horn before the vines could bind any of her magic.

After Twilight fluttered back and saw through the gaps where the dimly lit tree held its empty slots for holding the elemental pieces the bearers wore, words from Celestia came back to revisit Twilight from her memories.

“Even without these elements, the Tree of Harmony will possess a powerful magic. As long as that magic remains, it will continue to control and contain all that grows here.”

An epiphany hit Twilight, so she turned to face her friends with a new plan.

“I know how we can save the tree. We have to give it the Elements of Harmony.”

Rainbow spoke up from the back of the group and flew up over the others to land in front of Twilight to speak her concerns face to face.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, heh. How are we supposed to protect Equestria?”

Rarity, just as concerned, particularly with more immediate and local threats, stepped forward and raised a hoof, attempting to speak reason to Twilight as well.

“How are we meant to rein Discord in if we can't use the Elements to turn him back to stone?”

Without a moment of hesitation, Applejack marched forward, closer than the previous two had, standing within striking distance of Twilight, but brought her hoof to the apple jeweled element around her neck instead. Then, without anger but a near frightened and somber tone, she pleaded her case not to give up their last weapon of defense.

“Twilight... The Elements of Harmony... They're what keep us connected no matter what.”

Looking back in the retelling of this story, there was no doubt that it was Harmony’s influence, likely one or many whispers guiding Twilight’s thoughts to her conclusions. No matter the cause or even Harmony’s reasoning, Twilight spoke with certainty of what had to be done but said her piece with calm compassion.

“You're right about one thing, Applejack. The Elements of Harmony did bring us together. But it isn't the Elements that will keep us connected. It's our friendship. And it's more important and more powerful than any magic. My new role in Equestria may mean I have to take on new responsibilities, and our friendships may be tested, but it will never, ever be broken. There's no time to lose. Everypony ready?”

It was all taken on blind faith, but blind faith in Twilight, who rose high above them, ready to claim their elements.

So, with the decision being made without further debate, the remaining five cheered out to Twilight, “Ready!”

One by one, Twilight gathered each of the elements from around the necks of her friends in her aura. They were pulled closer, each circling around her slowly until finally, she removed the last element from her crown and let it join with the others.

With all six together, their slow dance became a violent swirling blur, to which the vines reacted by lurching out.

Instead of the vines subduing Twilight, the swirling jewels expanded their reach to intercept the vines and shredded them to pulp upon contact. Twilight gasped in shock at the violent response that had so quickly saved her, but to her surprise, the elements moved on their own once more.

The circle of their destructive path expanded again, and lights of all their colors shined out brilliantly with an uncomfortable warmth as they raced towards the mass of vines and the Tree of Harmony.

Where the lights shined brightest and were cast upon any portion of the vines, they rapidly dried to a husk, crackling and crumbling before they were dashed to pieces or blown away by the whirling winds of the elements. The blinding lights, heated air, and rushing winds cleared all but ash and dust of what had been the vines before each gem slammed into their previously secured slots that had been bored into the tree, returning the lost luster to Harmony and rapidly eradicating any remaining vines beyond the cave.

With the vines vanquished, two large piles of ash and dust fell away to reveal Luna and Celestia, both scratched from head to hoof and appearing exhausted.

Twilight, excited to see her mentor once again, rushed up and embraced her.

Celestia, while tired, was just as pleased to see Twilight hugging her with one foreleg and wasting no time praising her former student.

“We know how difficult it must have been for you to give up the Elements. It took great courage for you to relinquish them.”

Before Twilight could acknowledge the words of praise or explain herself, the tree began to glow bright again and hummed with magic. Drawing everypony’s attention, they stepped forward to see a trail of the spectral magic feed down from the six Elements down the trunk of the crystal tree into Celestia’s cutie mark also embedded in the tree, then further down into Luna’s, then further still past the trunk until sprouting a flower that grew just beyond Twilight’s height.

Curious, if not drawn to it by some unknown force, Twilight tapped her hoof upon the flower, releasing a brilliant light from which the petals blossomed open.

Inside, a treasure box presented itself, and all the others gathered around to examine the new discovery.

“What’s inside it?” Twilight asked. “How’m I supposed to open it?”

Luna, standing the closest, could only state the obvious.

“Six locks. Six keys.”

Both Luna and Twilight turned to Celestia, who regrettably shook her head.

“I do not know where they are.” She turned and started to walk away with a smile and positive outlook. “But I do know it is a mystery you will not be solving alone.”

It seemed that all that had needed to be dealt with had been taken care of, so they all started to make their way out.

[Thursday, 19 May 2016, The Equestrian 30th Day of Love at Canterlot Castle.]

The table was now quiet. Celestia hadn’t moved or interjected, much like Benny seated between her and Twilight. At the same time, Starlight waited uneasily next to Chris, who sat contemplating
over Twilight’s history of events.

All of the new details only seemed to add more mud to the already murky waters.

“That’s it?” Chris finally asked. “The discussion you had with Discord was different than it should have been, but he never had you drink that white potion again when you got back to town? To give you a vision to show you that he planted the chaos seeds that grew up under Harmony’s tree back when he first went up against Celestia and Luna before he lost?”

Sadly, all Twilight could do was shake her head.

“No. He was surprised that we gave up the Elements of Harmony and either hinted at or joked about returning to his villainous ways. We were all worried that could have been a problem, but Fluttershy reminded him that doing so would end their friendship, so he seemed to give up on the idea of it and even offered to help us clean up from the aftermath.”

With that bit of history cleared up and the discrepancies explained… Chris still had nothing.

“I… I dunno. With Discord, Harmony, and Rose all gone now, I don’t think we’ll ever be able to figure this shit out. I mean… Why would Harmony allow those vines to run wild if she couldn’t control them? Why put all of you in so much more danger with something that could have ended up doing so much more damage to any of you?”

Those were good questions, and Benny had one of his own.

“Or could it have been that she only controlled them if they weren’t physically touching her? That would make sense if Discord and Harmony really were so similar."

Chris thought for a moment, then looked to relax more in his seat.

"Yeah, that would make sense. But why not follow the script for such a crucial point in the story she was supposed to be following… Not unless she was stronger than we thought, and Discord's vines couldn't reach her, so she went an alternate set of… No… if she was stronger, she could have lowered her defenses and allowed the story to progress like it was supposed to. But if she was too weak to fend off Discord's vines, then…"

The room went quiet again as the endless possibilities of unknowns ran through everyone's perspective scrutiny. Then, Chris had a thought worth sharing.

"Actually, maybe Harmony was too weak at the time to go up against Discord's vines after all. If she was holding back the darkness like Rose and Ring said she was, and Discord could have weakened her tree even further, maybe she knew she couldn't fight off both at the same time… And if she could control the deer vines, so long as they weren't touching her, just like they didn't when you saved her back then, maybe she changed how The Words said these events were supposed to play out just enough to make it feel the same as best she could? She already missed the events of Equestria Girls, where you would have gone through the mirror to the other human world, and everything else seemed to play out as expected."

Benny gave Chris's explanation some serious consideration and couldn't find the fault in its logic.

"If you think the two stories sound close enough to work out with the same end, Harmony would have a lot of time between that part of the series and the next to make any further adjustments with her suggestions to compensate. That kinda shit happens in the military all the time."

All three ponies focused their attention on Benny, instantly putting him in the position of needing to explain himself.

"Commanding officers get their mission requirements handed to them with expectations of a certain outcome. They get with their department heads to make a plan of action, and those plans get passed down to senior leaders to carry out with their subordinates to complete the mission."

Having their full attention and thinking that maybe only Celestia could follow along on a technical scale, he carefully thought of how to phrase the rest more clearly.

"Nothing ever goes to plan. Equipment breaks, communication between personnel sucks, people forget things… That's just the way it goes. But, redundancies are usually kept in place to overcome these factors, if not overcompensate in different areas to still achieve the mission goal when other parts of the mission fail. Like… maybe it’s not a missile that takes out an enemy ship but a torpedo instead. Or instead of intercepting a pirate ship using a patrol craft or a rib, we drop in from a helo."

Of course, some of those military terms were completely foreign to the likes of the ponies there at the table. Mostly Celestia.

“I’m sorry; a rib? And what’s a helo?”

Explaining those terms might have been simple to someone back home, but for this conversation with the present company, Benny decided to keep it brief.

“Oof. Um… Military transport vehicles. The technical side isn’t important. I’m just trying to convey the idea of what Harmony was probably trying to do.”

Twilight nodded, seemingly understanding the message Benny had done his best to convey.

"So, even though the plan doesn't work the way as intended to achieve the desired outcome with specific requirements met, you can change and adapt enough to still have the required outcome."

Chris sighed with a mix of relief and frustration. Everyone could see that something wasn't sitting well with him in all of this.

"We can accept that for now, but something is still bugging me about Discord not knowing where Harmony was even after the fact. It's like she was protecting herself, which would make sense. Discord did end up killing her… but if she was able to make those changes and still have everything else play out as required… what else might she have changed? Also… If Harmony had the Elements, how did you get them back? You had them when you came to Benny’s house."

Celestia’s expression remained placid as she stared at the group.

“It wasn’t much of a detour for me to stop and grab the Elements on my way to your embassy. I pulled them out, put them in a box, and returned to my guards before they reached Ponyville. I didn’t imagine we would need them long enough for the vines to grow again. Is it possible Harmony had plans for them to be used, or could there be another threat we are still not aware of?”

There was no way of knowing for sure, and no one at the table made any effort to offer a single theory. So, Chris decided it was time to move on.

"Maybe, and we can always come back to that. Otherwise, I still can't figure out what The Darkness actually is or why it was trying to destroy everything. It… I don't know where to go with this portion yet. The crystals make me think King Sombra and the metal works for The Pony of Shadows. The ooze portion of it… Nothing in this world that I’ve been able to see fits. I’m guessing that if The Words were based on the show, and this might be a stretch, the oily ooze has something to do with a villain that’s been reimagined from the first version of the show as we know it.”

Again, Chris had everyone’s undivided attention.

“The show based on your world is less than six years old, but the My Little Pony franchise, with characters that reappear and are reimagined, has been around for maybe thirty years. And I hardly remember seeing it when I was a kid. My older sister would watch it, so I had to watch it. I think it was the movie, but it was called The Smooze, and it was some kind of slime monster made from a potion.”

The room was silent for at least thirty seconds.

“And?” Celestia finally asked.

Sadly, Chris gave no strong presence in his reply.

“That’s all I got. I know the reports say muscle tissue was found in the oily mix that was excavated and dumped or burned, but I can’t explain this one yet. I’m guessing that probably like The Pony of Shadows hadn’t been seen as he was, the Smooze or whatever this Darkness was is probably a villain from a future portion of the show, or maybe we’re dealing with another dimensional jumping variant. Well, one that wasn’t supposed to exist in this timeline or a version of the show Harmony thought The Words foretold. We already know the Storm King is a villain we have to look out for, so who knows how many others are out there. Maybe even Harmony had plans to bring back Grogar.”

Hearing that name, Celestia’s eyes grew wide and her posture erect.

“Grogar?!”

Everyone turned to Celestia, who suddenly looked slightly embarrassed but quickly composed herself.

“My apologies, everyone. That name has been spoken only in legends far older than Equestria itself. He was a powerful ram of great evil, but stories say he and his city of slaves, Tabelon, vanished. Banished or retreated to a realm of darkness. Though perhaps it was either Harmony or Discord that removed him, we may never know. However, there are records of a city named Tabelon having existed and artifacts depicting Grogar’s appearance, so that may be another threat we will have to consider.”

Chris hung his head, some mental fatigue showing through.

“I can’t give you too much guidance on characters like those being reintroduced to your world. Lord Tirek was actually a lot more evil in the original series but had different powers. He was more of a wizard, from what I remember reading, and his name used to be spelled with a C, not a K. There could also be an Abyssinian… queen or a witch-queen. She was also from the first series, but she was easily turned good, from what I remember. There was also some other kind of cloud or smoke demon thing that stole shadows. But you also have others that are unique to this world, like the changelings, as well as the Storm King, Nightmare Moon…”

He turned his eyes toward Starlight, giving her an almost sad look, then back to the rest of the table.

“We also don’t know how much of Harmony’s influence over any future hostiles may still be affecting them. They could be innocent ponies or other creatures pushed in the wrong direction.”

Celestia hung her head and slowly huffed a sigh of discontent.

“This revelation of Harmony’s influence also poses a serious conflict with those currently held in Tartarus. Wild beasts, as well as Tirek himself. If Harmony influenced their intentions, then they may not have been fully at fault for their actions. Yet, I cannot rule out the possibility that their transgressions could be far worse had her whispers been removed. If that is the case, Tartarus may not be enough, and more permanent solutions may be required.”

Such a statement could only be taken in so many different ways, and Chris could only imagine Celestia meant it to mean one thing.

“Princess… From the outside looking in, I may be the most informed about this world. I’m also the most educated about law from ours, even if I never specialized in criminal prosecution… Implementing law for the justification of lethal force by state powers is dangerous and has more downfalls than advantages.”

Just as quickly, Benny thought to chime and mediate a little more tactfully.

“That’s not to say there aren’t justifications. Of course, what we’re offering is only advice, and at least militarily, there is plenty I was trained on that covers all branches of service about what provides the best justification and explanation of lethal force. It’s not perfect, but it paints a pretty specific set of circumstances to justify that level of force.”

Opposite of Celestia, Twilight seemed to meet both parties somewhere in the middle.

“I don’t think we’re ready to make any laws on who can or can’t kill any creature. The purpose of self-defense and defense of others, like Justin has stated before, sounds like more than enough for us to make any case-by-case decisions. Otherwise, just like against Harmony and those who chose to fight alongside her, a royal decree to grant exceptions can clear up any other legality.”

“But then you’ll look like tyrants,” Chris quickly countered.

Careful not to let this conversation turn into a heated debate, Benny raised one hand over the center of the table and placed his other on Chris’s arm.

“Again, these are only opinions, but also, I should make it clear that this is a topic we all need to have a lot more information on, legally, culturally, and with a bit more insight if not cool minds.”

He quickly turned his gaze to Chris, who looked like he realized he had said too much. At least that let Benny know to ease up and pull his hands back before speaking more calmly.

“To be honest, Chris and I have very different opinions on the death penalty. And I don’t mean killing in the time of war or self-defense. I mean using death as a form of punishment for seriously heinous crimes like treason, murder, rape… world-ending plots… But, again… I suggest we move on to other topics and return to this later on. And personally, I think Chris and I should talk before even either of us say too much on the matter.”

It might have all been an accident, but Celestia didn’t want any of these topics to turn hostile. Certainly not with any of the humans, knowing full well the political weight they carried, even if they themselves didn’t know what lay in wait for them yet.

“There is no need for concern, either of you. And Twilight, I believe you are right as to what Cerberus had previously tried to educate us on. There is a time and place where logic dictates the immediate or inevitable call for the defense of life and, thus, a requirement for more drastic measures call for us to act. However, I would like to set up another meeting such as this one, where we could discuss such matters before even approaching the process of putting such concepts to paper to consider for law. Perhaps Chris is right that more discretion may be needed to prevent…”

Celestia was doing her best to be as delicate and formal with her words, which seemed to be too slow for Starlight’s tastes. So, with the absence of Celestia being able to explain herself, Starlight took over.

“I think Cerb made it pretty clear that no guard here has any proper training with their weapons to not accidentally kill somepony. That’s what almost got Kelly killed. I don’t think the whole world is ready for any creature to start setting laws on when it’s okay to kill when we don’t know who is even as durable as we once were or not. We’d be putting more ponies and other creatures in danger.”

Days prior, that would have been crossing the line against Celestia, but again, she had to keep the present company in mind. So, once more, she kept her civilities at the forefront and addressed the table as a whole instead of Starlight directly.

“I’m more than aware of the lost durability of the many creatures involved in the battle against Harmony. We also have no way of knowing how far she allowed the spell to remove her enchantment to travel and who may be vulnerable. Knowing this, it is not my plan to allow any of my guards or subjects to travel blindly into danger where their lives would be placed in even greater peril than previously considered. Just the same, any law passed would have to come with a broader understanding of the limitations and capabilities we are bound to.”

Having said much of her speech civilly, as well as politically candid, she then turned her attention solely to Starlight. There simply wasn’t enough properly conveyed with such niceties.

“I’ve lived for over a thousand years with countless lives butchered and slaughtered under my nose and at least one before my eyes from what little I can recall. Widows, orphans, entire families lost, possibly entire villages of lives reduced to bones for a heartless lunatic to play with. So even if Harmony is gone, Chrysalis is roaming free with an army of love-starved changelings who I’m sure would have no qualms feasting upon the well earned affection your growing family with Chris has garnished. A power-hungry warlord who defeated two dominating armies may return in search of slaves and may yet still have his sights on Equestria, where you and every creature you care for lives. And if Grogar or some other unknown danger is to rear its ugly, uncaring, murderous head upon my kingdom, I’d rather let them and the world know they did not live to tell the tale of how they failed. Instead, I’d rather you and every creature raise their horns and hold their weapons high… screaming… never… again.”

Once more, Benny spoke up to help calm the temperature in the room, which was starting to rise along with Celestia’s anger.

“I apologize to everyone for how this topic was brought up. It wasn’t outlined on our agenda. We should probably put it aside until we have more time to gather our thoughts. We need to do a lot more research on our point of views before trying to debate anything off the top of our head or with raw emotion.”

Starlight lowered her head and looked away from the table, a bit of embarrassment taking over as she shied away as her eyes began to tear up.

“You’re right. My apologies, princess. After losing Trixie and everything that happened to Chris and the kids—”

“It’s fine,” Celestia quickly countered, taking a deep breath and lowering her temperature a few degrees. “It’s… Trixie was more than one of my little ponies. She wasn’t only one of my subjects, either. She was also once a student of mine… One I failed to nurture. One I couldn’t save… Nor could I properly avenge her… Not a single pony… Not Gruffo. Not Discord… Never again.”

Without further prompt, Celestia stood up from the table. She didn’t look angry, though she was clearly upset, most likely at herself, but spoke plainly to her small audience.

“My apologies. It was a pleasure to visit with all of you, and this meeting was very productive and informative. However… professionalism and royal protocols aside, we are all still over-taxed, not being afforded the time to destress as we need.”

She turned her gaze to Starlight and spoke softly in a near motherly tone.

“Starlight, my dear. I cannot imagine the stress of trying to adapt to the life you once knew to the struggles of then studying under Twilight, finding love—” She blushed and had to avert her eyes. “—Lots of love, as it were. Then, having it all cast into danger on top of losing a friend… Please. Even if there is much I request of Chris, there is little to be gained if neither of you have the proper time to decompress. I will ask for no work of either to be addressed until… I understand you are familiar with our royal calendar system, Monday. Or for you, Starlight, our twenty-second day of Love.”

Without giving either Chris or Starlight a chance to respond, Celestia turned her attention to Benny.

“And you, Ambassador Yale. I know much has been asked of you on top of taking in young Water Bug. That is on top of how much you have been overworking yourself to fill in for the absence of Cerberus.”

“I’m not—” Benny started to say.

“You are,” Celestia quickly interjected, cutting off Benny with a graceful smile. “And it is greatly appreciated. Not only by me, but Prince Aspen and Queen Novo have taken notice. However, your body needs rest, and that new daughter of yours needs time with her loving father, just as I’m sure Vinyl and Octavia need more support with their now-public relationship… Please… Find a little more balance. I’m sure Chris could help provide some help in that department.”

Lastly, Celestia turned her eyes to Twilight but just as quickly dropped her gaze to the table.

“Benny, Chris, Starlight. Even if we are all friends, and you are new to this, so I take no offense, but in these formal events, when royalty stands, you are to stand as well. Regardless, you are dismissed, and I wish you a pleasant day. Flash Sentry will escort you back to the station… Twilight… We will talk privately.”

The pleasantries continued well enough as Benny, Chris, and Starlight took their leave. It took a few long awkward moments for the throne room to clear the final exchanges, mostly due to Benny still moving slowly. However, when it was only the two royals, it was clear that both mares knew the conversation was not going to be pleasant, particularly starting from Celestia’s opening remark.

“I’d have thought the worst blunders of policy and decision-making would have been made by Harmony’s influence in this castle, but even with her help and after her removal—”

And instantly, the illusion of the prior student-teacher dynamic Twilight held so honorably was gone.

“Oh, fuck no. I am not taking the heat for Rarity picking a fight with Cadance.”

So, now it was time for Celestia to bring it to Twilight's level.

“Don’t you start bringing in the human’s vocabulary into this when I cannot retort with it as a means of deflection, Twilight. You’ve made it very clear that as you were around the likes of Peter and the others so often, your mind was far more free and clear of Harmony’s influence than the likes of mine or any others. The humans were in your care, and you left the charge of their well-being to the likes of Fluttershy and Rarity, who have failed spectacularly.”

That was only partially true, and Twilight was not about to throw her friends under the proverbial bus.

“That’s a totally unfair assessment,” Twilight snapped with a stern glare. “You saw how devastated Fluttershy was at the memorial service—”

Celestia turned abruptly and rolled her eyes, blurting out her complaint flippantly with a mocking tone.

“Oh, when is Fluttershy not devastated, Twilight? And at a time she would have needed some comfort and support, she kept Rarity at her side and left Cerberus with two foreign leaders and one of your disobedient guards.” She turned again and sat at the table, looking away in disgust. “It’s not like she had the remains of her long-lost parents paraded in front of her face like a pair of marionettes… Not that I’ve had the time to grant them a memorial service. Nor will Luna even speak to me of it.”

Twilight stood next to the table, champing at the bit to argue back, but also backed into a corner from the position Celestia had been pushed into. Her reply would have to tone down the hostility.

“None of us have been spared from the fallout in the aftermath of Harmony’s actions. I haven’t even told my parents of what we saw that night. Not even the bodies of… I suppose I’ll never know which grandmother Harmony was flaunting in front of me. It could have come from either side of my family… but you are right… I failed to act in time to ensure Justin was given the care he needed.”

Slowly, Twilight made her way to the table and retook her seat. She sat with a slouch and showed no pride or enthusiasm, no different from Celestia across from her.

“We were all overwhelmed. Trying to understand Harmony, the echoes, the darkness, which villain or war was to come our way, all of our wounded, protecting the young delegates. Then, trying to get any information from Rose before she left… I mean… Celestia, be reasonable with me here. Since I was your pupil, you taught me magic until you pushed me out to learn friendship. Once I became a princess, I’ve unfurled banners and led the events locally you were too busy to attend. Everything else has been preaching friendship or fighting the battles you couldn’t… I’ve been doing far more than you’ve prepared me for, all of this included. You can’t hold me completely at fault for not meeting the expectations you never explained or using the skills I haven’t been trained me to use.”

Celestia finally turned her full attention back to Twilight with a look of pleading.

“Then you should have asked for my help.”

“We both know why I wouldn’t,” Twilight quickly snapped.

There wasn’t a good retort to that, and Celestia hung her head with a sigh.

“I’m doing my best, Twilight. And had I known things were as bad as they were, I would have invited Cerberus to stay her in Canterlot as well—”

“No,” Twilight again interjected, bringing her forehooves to her temples. “I know Rarity royally screwed up by sending that letter behind my back, but she actually had good reasons behind her intentions. It’s something I still need to follow up with the rest of the Stranded Seven about.”

This seemed like an interesting topic to approach on even ground, so Celestia encouraged her younger princess.

“I’m listening.”

Twilight lowered her hooves and crossed them over the table as she turned to look away. Not out of anger or disgust towards Celestia but genuine frustration over the situation.

“I’m not sure how much you know about all the help Fluttershy and Rarity were giving Justin. He suffers from terrible nightmares about when he was still fighting in his war back in his world. They’re so violent and overwhelming that he would act out as if he was still fighting in those battles after he woke up. For some reason, not even Princess Luna could help him, but both Fluttershy and Rarity could… until they stopped staying with him when he slept.”

Mournfully, Twilight dropped her gaze to the floor. A sad memory of her failures to act coming back to haunt her.

“We didn’t really know about it until the night of the Welcome Welcome To Ponyville Party that Pinkie Pie set up for them. Benny tried to warn us, but we didn’t know how bad it could be until the night Justin had to sleep alone in the hospital.”

[Five days earlier, Saturday, 14 May 2016, 13th Day of Love in Ponyville Hospital.]

Twilight was running down the hallway as fast as she could. Guards were sprinting in all directions, covering exits, checking windows, taking positions, making call-outs, and demanding answers, but it was her question that held the most importance as she raced towards Cerb’s room.

“What’s happening?!”

One of the few unicorn Lunar Guards shifted nervously side to side, searching for danger down both ends of the hallway.

“A possible security breach. One of the guards heard Ambassador Cerberus call out an attack, but we don’t know from where!”

From further down the hall, there was a muffled cry for help. The words were indiscernible, but the call was all too clear as the sound of glass breaking broke out from behind one particular door.

Before anyone could even begin to rationalize what was happening, Midnight had swooped down from above the tiled ceiling and into the hall to open his comrade's door.

“Justin! Hold on!”

It was too late, Twilight couldn’t stop the bat pony from rushing into danger.

“Midnight! No! Becky warned us not to—”

Becky’s warning had either been ignored outright or overruled by Midnight’s sense of duty, maybe even his dedication to a fellow warrior and loyalty to one he likely considered a friend. No matter the reason, Cerb’s reaction and violent, threatening words said that he didn’t recognize friend from foe in the lightless room.

“GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM HER!”

In a panic, Twilight switched from her gallop to teleport to the doorway.

Crack!

In the faint light of the night and shadows of the hospital room, Twilight caught sight of Midnight slamming with his backplate of armor into the wall. Stuck in a daze, he remained unmoving, lost as to what had happened or why Cerb had attacked him, leaving him unable to pry himself free from the plaster.

Instinctually, Twilight raised her wing to flip the light switch.

“Justin! Stop!”

The light appeared to blind Cerb, but instead of merely shielding his eyes, he clenched them shut and hunkered down to grip the side rail of the bed next to him. Then, in one mighty heave, snapping the nuts and bolts free, Cerb tore the metal support structure free from the bed and went straight for the windup.

“You mother fuckers!”

In a quick flash and a pop, Twilight teleported Midnight from out of the wall and into her forelegs. She jumped back out into the hallway, far enough to slide into the wall. She slammed with a thud in time to see the railing Cerb had swung dig into the wall, where it stuck.

Had it been an actual weapon like his familiar axe, the cut would have gone much further if not cleaved straight through.

By then, more guards had stormed up to the room, some in armor, others were patients still in bandages themselves, but all of them ready to engage. Twilight, however, was needed to call them off, less another pony became a potential casualty.

“Everypony! Stand back!”

Unfortunately, or fortunately, one patient among the many there, who was not a pony nor required to listen to such orders, pushed her way forward.

“Justin! I’m coming!”

Ember had left her room, hobbling and forcing her limbs to push the guards out of her way as she made her way to Cerb’s side and all but collapsed around Cerb’s arm to hold herself up.

“Justin! Where are they?! Who attacked you?! I’ll kill them! I’ll kill all of them!”

Twilight attempted to sit up farther and move Midnight further towards the protective line of guards but froze as Becky ran past the guards, who all parted ways for them as she called out her own orders.

“Everyone get the fuck out of here! Move!”

Without fear or hesitation, Becky put her hands around Cerb’s wrist and started to pull him back as she tried to speak to him.

“Justin! Justin… Hey. Hey… Justin. You’re bleeding everywhere. What are you doing?”

Slowly, Cerb began to succumb to his injuries as the nightmare faded and the adrenaline wore off.

“Fluttershy and Rarity won’t wake up,” Cerb angrily answered. “They got King Abyssinia and Gruff.”

“Justin?” Thunder’s voice wheezed from Twilight’s peripherals, trotting her way out from the room next to Cerb’s.

Of course, this only set Twilight off.

“Thunder! What are you doing out of bed!”

Soldiering on, Thunder didn’t even look back as she entered Cerb’s room.

“Answering the call.”

From the hallway, Twilight watched Cerb’s anger slip into despair as the tight grip he held on his improvised weapon slipped free, and his legs gave out.

“Becky, Embers hurt. I couldn’t save her. Thunder Glides bleeding. It was an accident. I didn’t see her in time… I gotta save Discord. Fluttershy won’t stop crying… I gotta save’em.”

From there, Cerb continued to break down as Becky attempted to take control of the deteriorating situation.

“God damnit, Cerb, don’t move. You’re tearing yourself open. Ember, Thunder, you can’t be in here; there’s blood everywhere. Damn it! Someone get Doctor Horse and Nurse Redheart!”

[Back in Celestia’s Throne Room.]

Twilight sulked lower in her seat, still not able to look Celestia in the eyes, sounding just as beaten up and torn down as she did that night.

“I don’t know if it was the right call Becky made to have Justin removed from the hospital, but they did try to warn us that he could be dangerous if disturbed while having one of his nightmares… And it was after she made that decision and Justin apologized to Midnight that Princess Ember and Prince Rutherford left the hospital to stay with him in protest. Then Thunder Glide must have walked out and joined them instead of returning to her bed like I ordered… but I knew she wasn’t going to listen, and I wasn’t going to order her back.”

Celestia, now questioning Twilight’s leadership skills, had to ask, “And why not? Such insubordination requires correction. Do you not plan on disciplining her?”

To answer this, Twilight did look Celestia in the eyes, though her expression was hurt and full of pity.

“Ordering Thunder to remain in the hospital was in her best interests and consideration for her health… But after the rest of the guards cleared out as Becky ordered, I sat in the hallway to watch over them. Ember and Thunder Glide refused to leave Justin’s side. And when he finally realized where he was and that his nightmare was just a nightmare… I watched him cry over Thunder and Ember. Holding onto both of them, saying how grateful he was that they were still alive… that he saved them.”

While it might have been a bit childish, Twilight turned away from Celestia and crossed her forehooves over her chest in a huff.

“It would have been irresponsible of me to send Thunder Glide away from the hospital when she was in such rough shape. But if it’s all the same to you, she made the right call to give Justin the care he needed when I couldn’t get Fluttershy or Rarity to help him. The fact that not even Cutter, let alone any other of my Guard, not even once tried to tell her to return or ask if they should bring her back means they knew she did the right thing as well… I’m letting it go for the good of my guard’s morale as well as Justin’s.”

Twilight would continue to stand on this position no matter the scrutiny. However, there were other matters to address surrounding the topic of Cerb and his health.

“Otherwise, regarding Rarity’s letter, as I pointed out, Justin’s health is a concern. Just as worrisome is the potential danger he poses if he lashes out during one of his nightmares. And while I believe Cadance is being honest with me when she wrote that Justin is being taken care of and she can keep his nightmares at bay, it may not be enough. Her own internal security may not be enough to provide the kind of protection that we can provide here. He might be better off returning back to Fluttershy and Rarity’s guardianship… I’m concerned I’ll be put in a position to enforce it.”

Those were good points and worthy of looking into, but Celestia had another glaring problem that needed to be pointed out, along with some other insight.

“Well, first, I must say that your approach to handling the situation with Thunder Glide is commendable. Just be wary of the fine line you are walking by allowing a guard to make a decision that goes against your orders for the right reasons. I believe Kelly nearly paid the ultimate price because four of my guards felt they were doing the right thing.”

That might have been true and likely an insightful exchange, but Celestia also couldn’t keep her eyes focused on Twilight for long as she opened up about her own faults.

“Of course, all of your guards, unlike me, have been close to every human. Even my previously misguided guards have a more favorable relationship with them than I do. But… I suppose that is another problem for me to fix, which is partially why I decided to request Sir Benny and Chris to take more time away from their duties despite our need for their assistance. Nevertheless, that brings us to your predicament with potentially enforcing the return of Cerberus to the questionable guardianship of Rarity and Fluttershy.”

Twilight’s glare further soured as she sat cross in her chair, knowing this blunder couldn’t be overlooked. At some point, it would become a contentious issue, legal or otherwise, and Celestia wasted no etiquette on proverbially laying it out on the table.

“You are right to say there is much I have not trained you on, and rarely have you been in need of one of my guards to be appointed as a guardian over you while in travel. So you would have been clueless about what is needed when—”

“I know!” Twilight loudly snarled in frustration, though her anger quickly melted into regret. “Guardianship authority appointed to a citizen has to be filed with the local municipality… which I never did… I thought a royal decree was all that was needed, just like it was when you did it for me and other dignitaries visiting.”

Celestia sighed, knowing all the difficulties that could arise from these complications, as well as another.

“Not only are all of our humans technically running around without proper guardianship, along with Cerberous in potential danger in the Crystal Empire, Kelly is also in the Abyssinia Empire… We still find ourselves in uncharted territory.”

Knowing it was true but still curious, Twilight asked, “How so?”

Trying to look disinterested, though honestly still holding some morbid curiosity herself, Celestia returned to a neutral pose and did her best to speak with a placid tone.

“I sent a letter to my sister concerning Rarity’s letter as well as the response from Cadance, which seemed far more aggressive than I would have anticipated. Regardless, Luna is planning on intervening, acting on her own accord, as it appears she also holds strong concerns for Cerberus as well. However, her concerns for Kelly are certainly much stronger, to which she has come to realize that there has never been an instance of the crown taking guardianship of another… save one.”

Twilight tried to think what Celestia was referring to, but it only took a moment for that to become, for lack of a better analogy, crystal… clear.

“Cadance!”

Celestia rolled her eyes, remembering the recent arguments and headaches the two created for each other, but it was true.

“Yes, but I signed, sealed, and approved my guardianship papers for Cadance… Given how we did not know the whereabouts of her parents, and she was so distraught over the fear of making them feel rejected or abandoned, I took sole custody as her aunt. Again, likely another influence from Harmony, but that won’t be a consideration for the courts. What would be is that president set by my action… That being a figure not being of the Royal Guard or a civilian gaining guardianship rights.”

Twilight was trying to follow along, and for the most part, she was, but couldn’t see where this was leading her.

“That still doesn’t help us. Neither Fluttershy nor Rarity are royalty. They’re not even guards or soldiers. Far from it.”

Celestia slowly pushed her forehooves out further onto the table, then drew them back onto the surface, carefully considering her next few words.

“Far from it indeed… In fact, one might say they are much more than any guard. They serve a far greater purpose than any of the Solar, Lunar, and now your Twilight Guard.”

Again, there was a point to be made, and Twilight was almost afraid to ask. Even still, Celestia needed to mend as many bridges as possible. At the very least, she needed to keep Twilight’s hostilities from growing and return to her previous path before this madness began.

“Regarding Luna and Kelly, my sister has made it clear that she will see to Kelly’s protection and will likely have no issues securing her guardianship. As for the others, unlike myself and any other princess, besides yourself. Unlike any guard or all the other ponies of Equestria, they have risen to a higher status along with you as Elements, who have time and time again saved our world.”

Finally, Twilight could see the angle Celestia was working from, though Celestia had one more card to play.

“Lest we not forget, Twilight, they all have a seat at your table and not solely by appointment as your council… They are… something more… But we would be creating new precedents, new law.”

This was indeed a powerful new card to play if it came down to it. However, Twilight could also see the downsides.

“But we would be using it to enforce our will over a friend who has been likely our most powerful ally against all our unknown threats. Even worse, Justin could reject the guardianship relationship or even his honorary status. We could end up splitting a wedge between all of our human friends or even Cadance and the whole Crystal Empire. Possibly any kingdom that would choose to side with Justin over us. I can’t just make that call without—”

“I’m not telling you what to do,” Celestia quickly butted in. “However, I did put you in a position clearly you were not—”

Stopping in time from saying something that could have been taking as an insult, Celestia stopped herself and took a breath. After a moment, and seeing how Twilight had also remained calm, she continued.

“My apologies… No pony was ready for the responsibilities you have taken on. And I have failed you as a mentor, your princess, and a friend… with or without Harmony’s influence. At least now, with a clear mind, I can tell you that to move forward with such an aggressive measure would be ill-advised, as you clearly understand. But it can still be used as a motivation piece. Something to negotiate with. A warning to provide. Not given as a threat, but offered as a means to barter down to more favorable terms.”

If that comment wasn’t clear enough, Celestia was going to be blunt.

“Be honest and tell Cadance that it was my idea. Make me the enemy. You could use that to ensure we do not lose ties with Cerberus. Neither of them have to like me for you to be the good friend they make the favorable deals with.”

For a moment, Twilight started to question herself. She had held such a grudge against Celestia, and perhaps rightfully so, but now? Sure, the conversation started off a bit abrasive, though looking back, much of it was warranted. Perhaps even Celestia’s attitude was only a reflection of the negativity she had been generating her, so she couldn’t even be upset about that either.

“I… Thank you, Princess. But why would you offer yourself up as the scapegoat?”

Celestia’s sad expression shifted to frustrated disappointment as she tilted her head.

“Even if Cerberus respects my position, he has yet to show that he sees me as anything but an incompetent leader. I did not visit him as he healed, nor has he reached out to me. The battle we fought in together and understanding Harmony’s meddling thereafter may have removed some contention, but there is no point in not pretending there’s more of an advantage for you using my poor image to keep things civil until Cerberus comes around and we make amends. Shit… For all the arguing over Cerberus and the other humans with Cadance, until recently, we’ve never been more distant than we are kingdoms apart.”

Again, Celestia’s mournful tone returned as she did her best to open up to her once most faithful student.

“Right now, I can’t fix this. A majority of the most powerful kingdoms have shifted their focus onto our human counterparts and, by extension, you to work through them. I still have to manage the rest of Equestria, the reconstruction, safe removal and destruction of The Darkness that invaded our world, as well as entertain the remaining kingdoms who were not involved in fighting Harmony… with an exhausting illusion of my ignorance and abundant concern.”

Frustrated, Celestia gave a deep sigh and glanced over at the letter she had received during the meeting earlier.

“Fleetfoot’s injuries are beyond recoverable. Spitfire authorized her medical transport to the Crystal Empire along with Cerberus for treatment at their facilities, but she has already been filed for medical retirement… However, she’s fighting their claim, but, of course, she can’t even talk about the injuries, and I’m not there to cover for her… Not even Becky was able to make any further recommendations for treatment, and I have no solutions to offer, yet… here I remain.”

Celestia looked at Twilight again, her sad eyes meeting her former student’s but then slowly drifting down to the table.

“All while walking on eggshells with my sister, my niece, and every creature I once thought I could call a friend… Even my most faithful student, despite me taking in the human she obviously worries for the most and trusts me with the least.”

That was a low blow Twilight wasn’t expecting, but it’s rare that anyone expects their secrets to come back to bite them in the ass. It was also not something Celestia was going to let Twilight have a retort on either.

“I’m sure you’ve received word that he’s adjusting fine to his new living arrangements. With Spike recovering, I’m more than aware of the mail that comes and goes through these halls, though I have respected your privacy to the contents, of course. I suggest you go see him to verify I have not allowed any harm to come to him. Not that our vigilant Sergeant Major Cutter would ever allow it… Though I’d wish she’d take more time to recover as well. Not that she’ll listen to me.”

This all seemed to end on such a sour note for Twilight. She didn’t know how to end the conversation, having entered this private exchange as the aggressor.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were dealing with so much. And I had no idea Fleetfoot’s injuries were that bad. But as for Cutter, I’ll… talk to her. I know she’s been pushing herself too hard. We all have.”

This was a good position to try and negotiate some goodwill and foster better ties, so Celestia softened her tone again.

“If you ever feel as though you could use some advice, I’ll do my best to be more receptive and offer better support than I have in the past. And while I am busy, I am used to the heavy workload. I can take on additional tasking if it becomes too much for you. Because right now, keeping all of our kingdoms allied together has become your responsibility by attachment of our human allies. And it should probably start with ensuring Cerberus is, in fact, well tended to, whether your previously appointed guardians approve or not. I’m sure you can handle that, but I’m more than willing to—”

“No,” Twilight softly answered. “I think you’re right, and I wanted to speak to Peter about this first. I plan to speak with all of the humans before making a decision, but visiting Justin to verify for myself is an even better idea. But… I need to apologize. I’ve been overprotective of Peter and the others. And… when we have more time, we really need to reconnect and sort things out. There are so many… um… private… things I wished I could have shared with you. And if there is anything you’d want to share with me that you’ve been—”

“In time,” Celestia calmly answered. “I do not mean to be rude or distant, but if Harmony made our minds as human as any others, then I have my secrets I intend to keep just as they do. I… need time to better understand who or what I am without her whispers telling me what to think or how to feel… All she’s taken from me. Everything still forced upon me.”

That was fair, and perhaps Twilight was pushing for a bit too much after all their bad blood. At the same time, it was a far better way to end things.

“That’s understandable,” Twilight replied as she stood up from the table, matching eyes with Celestia standing along with her. “I might not be the pony to talk to about these kinds of things anyway. But if you get the chance, talk to Peter… He’s a lot better at helping ponies improve themselves and figure things out when they’re unsure of how to move forward.”

Hearing that, Celestia smiled and bowed to her former student.

“I can see that. Best of luck to you, Twilight.”

As Twilight started to walk away, Celestia had one final comment to give, though it came with concern.

“Be sure to knock and have those tending to Peter make certain he is fully awake and aware of your arrival… He may be adjusting well, but he is still having his nightmares.”

Instantly, Twilight’s entire demeanor sank, and she couldn’t look back, too heartbroken by the memory of such details.

“Yes… Of course… I haven’t forgotten.”

Twilight’s departure was all but a walk of shame, which actually did leave Celestia feeling sorry for the poor mare. They both were going through a lot, and both were going through much of it alone in their own ways.

Only Celestia wasn’t fully alone as she sat upon her throne and gazed into a small mirror. She levitated up to see the fiery alter-ego mirroring her sentiment.

“Twilight still clings to her princess title too tightly,” Daybreaker declared with a pout. “You must have really hurt her feelings, reminding her of those terrible nightmares. You know she blames herself.”

Embarrassed and feeling guilty at the accusation, Celestia turned her head away and brought her right forehoof to her head.

“Oh, that was not what I meant to do at all. I was only looking out for Peter’s well-being. She would have felt even worse had walked in and woken him up and… Come on. You know how terrible that would have ended.”

Daybreaker rolled her eyes and lazily floated around the rim of a vintage handheld, or fetlock-held, given the pony-designed mirror.

“Don’t lie to yourself, Tia. Your emotions should not get the best of you. Our goal was to put Twilight back on track of overtaking your responsibilities to secure your throne so you can take your freedom with Peter as your own. Not only did you send Twilight back on another mission to discover another lesson about Friendship, she sent you to Peter’s shoulder to cry on. Not even I could have planned for that.”

From beyond the reflective side of the mirror, Daybreaker’s expression saddened as she pondered what Peter’s council would entail.

“Do be careful with Peter, Tia. He saw through Cutter’s deceptive nature far better than you ever have and tamed her anger in ways you never could. Not to mention her daughter, and you saw the way she fought for Peter… Her flames are different from mine. We are playing with fire if Peter does not part ways with her on his own accord, and Cutter will not allow that to happen so easily. You know she means to make that stallion her son-in-law.”

Celestia stared at the burning reflection in the mirror, the other mare likely knowing full well what she was thinking.

"We read the report and spoke to Lyra herself. They are merely practice. Mares Peter fancied while he believed himself to be temporarily stranded. When he comes to terms that his stay here is permanent, he will need a mare with more permanent standing. And besides."

Drawing a quick breath, Celestia playfully blew onto the surface of the mirror. Her cool breath blew out the flames and restored her own reflection so she could take upon her image once more, even puffing up her bangs a little with her hoof.

"Oven Fresh is a modest baker and of modest means. She can't afford the tastes Peter seems to appreciate… Certainly not what he deserves."

Despite the throne having been secured, regardless if Twilight and the others had already left or not, one of the large doors swung open. This caught Celestia's attention and instantly stirred her annoyance as she recognized the voice, or precisely, who was forcing his way in. Even his aura that opened the door was visually irritating.

"The NERVE! The door should be opened for me, not BY ME! I’m returning from a very important diplomatic mission, I’ll have you know. Auntie Celestia must hear from me, immediately.”

Some audible noise started to creep out from one of the guards' failed attempts to protest outside the door but was quickly snuffed out by Blueblood strutting his way in and shutting the door behind him.

“Auntie!” He loudly called out as he changed from a strut to a canter up to the throne. “I have the most pleasing news to report from the minotaur's capital.”

This wasn't a welcomed report nor a congenial appearance Celestia had anticipated. Even if Blueblood was family, through some questionable extended relation she was growing ever more doubtful of, her warm smile failed to show itself as she greeted him.

“Prince Blueblood. How kind of you to bring me your report directly… and ahead of schedule, no less.”

Blueblood stopped to take his bow before Celestia’s throne and rose with his right forehoof to brush his golden mane back. His pearl white coat was well brushed and shined as much as it was cared for and pampered as he was entitled. His unicorn horn was equally polished and shined to match his tailored partial black tux-vest and exorbitantly expensive blue bow tie.

Lowering his forehoof down over his chest, he posed in a cordial curtsy and fluttered his light blue eyes to boast.

“Oh, Celestia, my dear. I simply couldn’t get back to civilization fast enough. Dealing with the insufferable minatours, I thought that was going to be the worst, but then that horrible black oil came and made such a mess of the negotiations you sent me on. PUH!”

The arrogant unicorn rolled his eyes and stomped his hoof in protest. It was as if he recalled some personal insult and was slighted all over again.

“It was a fool’s errand to expect a minotaur to partake in any future events with the words POWER or BEAUTY attached when we are to outclass them. Sad to say that even the yaks can overpower their economy these days, though, when it comes to desserts, those bovines to make a beauty of a vanilla—”

“PRINCE!” Celestia shouted but quickly caught herself in time to cover her lips and finally force a smile. “If you would please, could you make quick of your results. Much has happened in your absence and my time with you, regrettably, will be short.”

Somewhat taken aback, Blueblood quickly composed himself and stood upright and proper, ready to give his report.

“Apologies, Princess, but the minotaur High Chieftain, after the attack, wanted me to send his apologies for again not attending this year's Flower Garden Party and passing on participating in Twilight's display of Power and Beauty. However, he did show interest in meeting these new humans you raised such a fuss about."

"Out of the question," Celestia spat out, hiding no sympathy toward the request. "You will be brought up to speed on what you need to know about the humans when I have the time to inform you. As for the minotaurs, since they continue on as they have in the past, they will no doubt bring more trouble than they have to us before. We have done our best to provide open hooves to welcome them into our community of kingdoms, but they remain stuck in their old ways."

Thinking back to dealing with the stubborn race of bipedal bovines, Celestia couldn't help but feel as though she was overlooking something. Something nagging at the back of her mind telling her of why she kept their kind at such a distance.

"For now, continue on as you have. You have done well with them to keep our kingdom's relations civil, and confrontations limited only to those who dwell outside of their borders. As for their request to meet with the humans, if they are to ask again, we are currently unable to make such arrangements on their behalf. And to do so would require the likes of Benny or Chris first getting briefed on their temperament and other sensitivities you have come to navigate."

Blueblood postured proudly again, looking smug, if not letting the words flow in one ear and out the other.

"As you wish. I'm sure these furless oddities can be taught no differently than any other monkey."

Without even realizing it, Celestia began to radiate dangerous amounts of heat.

“Monkey?”

Somehow, Blueblood failed to take notice of the rise in temperature and continued to elaborate, appearing to laugh at his humor.

“Oh, auntie. The guards you sent off with me. Real salts of the Earth they are. They told me the brigade you took down to Ponyville, and those poor, frail, hairless creatures. Needing to be saved by Twilight, her backwater friends with the Elements of Harmony after mistakenly antagonizing a fight with your Captain. But with no claws or agility like an Abyssinian or the brute strength of a minotaur, what should they expect when challenging the might of the Equestrian’s finest? That’s not to mention their appearance. Flat-faced, tiny eyes? One stallion said the large one reminded him of a pale-colored shaven ape. Ha! I could only imagine.”

Sitting angrily on her throne, the plush-cushing Celestia sat atop began to smoke as her mane and tail flowed more erratically around her. Steadily, her breathing heaved with her failure to hold back her anger, and sparks ignited around her, sending arcs of flames to run through the ethereal colors of her mane and tail.

“Wipe that smirk off your face this instant!” Celestia demanded, causing Blueblood to flinch hard and recoil in fright below her. “You know NOTHING of our human guests, yet you mock their appearance and trivialize their tragedy to amuse me?”

Rightfully frightened, Blueblood spoke urgently to apologize.

“No, Auntie! I thought—”

“NO!” Celestia countered with scorn in her voice. “You weren’t trying to entertain me? Were you amusing yourself with another’s suffering? Here? When my time is precious, and you force your way before my throne? Imposing upon me to conduct unrequested business at your leisure?”

Again, Blueblood pleaded his response without thought, still cowering on his haunches.

“Auntie, no! I—”

“Stand up straight!” Celestia barked, interrupting whatever apology or excuse Blueblood was about to give. “Speak clearly. We are no longer exchanging in familiarities or friendly conversation. You will address me by royal title as I shall do the same. Do you understand, Duke?”

Blueblood slowly rose to all fours but rose his head even slower. It took every ounce of strength to speak past the embarrassment he felt and the hurt that came from having his official title cast down upon him. It was even more insulting when it came from Celestia herself, but an order was an order, and he understood the protocols far better than most.

“Yes, Princess,” he answered with a wounded, yet straightforward enough tone. “I, Duke of Equestria’s Northern Precinct, understand and apologize. My behavior was brash, unprofessional, and unbecoming of official procedures.”

Celestia didn’t care how collected, sad-looking, or well-spoken he delivered his response. Too much had been said that she wouldn’t let go of so easily.

“Your lips have grown as loose as your ego has overgrown your title. I’ve known foals barely old enough to earn their cutie marks who learned better than to raise their social standing and favor by talking down others and laughing over their misfortune.”

She was still livid, but Blueblood had always been like this, and she had always allowed it. Only now, she had a better understanding of possibly why and started to think both needed to either cool off or have more clear minds about themselves. So, she levitated up a section of parchment, a quill still wet with ink, and started to write.

“You were certainly right about one thing, Duke. This behavior of yours is most unbecoming.”

Not putting too much thought into her writing, Celestia finished scribing her letter, tore off the parchment, rolled it, then levitated it to Blueblood.

“Take this and show it to the guards outside these doors. Follow them to Captain Flash Sentry so those two guards can be replaced. The two guards being replaced will be escorting you home where they will guard your doors instead of mine, since they couldn’t do their job here for me by letting you in, they will stand guard there for you at your home. And best of luck to you fending for yourself until further notice because you are hereby under house arrest. No guests. No staff. No delivery service. Just you and complete solitude. And if my guards fail at their job a second time of only letting in or out who I allow… Well, all three of you will answer to me.”

By this point, Blueblood took notice of the heat and all of Celestia’s anger. He had no worldly idea what exactly he had done to upset her to this degree, but he had a feeling in his gut not to attempt anything but comply.

“Yes, Princess. I thank you for your—”

“GO!”

[Back in the caves of Mount Everhoof.]

Fighting through the discomfort of her injuries and the bitter cold of their surroundings, Spitfire helped guide Rainbow down another set of stones. This area was lowly lit and nearly as dangerously for her as it was for her blindfolded friend, had she been walking down alone.

“Easy does it,” she cautioned with one hoof on Rainbow’s chest, helping her down. “Just a few inches.”

Despite Spitfire's help and Rainbow’s another-day ruggedness, her hooves slipped, and she fell forward face-first into Spitfire’s muzzle. The force of contact was annoyingly minimal but frustrating on both mares navigating these winding paths.

“Ow!” Rainbow yelped, falling down to her side and raising both forehoves to hold over her right eye that took the brunt of the blow. “God damnit! Isn’t there an easier way out of the stupid mountain?”

From where Rainbow landed, a few loose chunks of ice broke free and tumbled down. Before either mare could react, Thorax was on top of them, his left foreleg on the back of Rainbow’s neck to hold her down and his right foreleg on Spitfire’s left cheek, shoving her face down next to Rainbow’s.

“Shh!” He loudly hushed them, angry in his delivery.

For the moment, neither mare could do anything. Rainbow was, of course, blind and had to follow their lead. Spitfire, also taking Thorax’s lead, had to assume he had good reason not only for his hasty action, but she was also momentarily frightened by the strength this frail-looking stallion forced down on her.

Sure, he was an Earth pony, which came with some greater inherent strength compared to the superior speed and agility of a pegasus, but even for his body composition, this stallion's output didn’t match his body composition.

Regardless, pinned down on the icy floor of the cave, she listened to the debris knocked loose that continued to tumble down, echoing through the vast chambers and frozen walls unseen below them. Then, after one or two met their resting place, likely many hundreds of feet below them in the greater reaches of darkness none of them could peer into, two or three found their way into something liquid that echoed up with splashes.

Still, Spitfire waited, wondering what danger would warrant such a reaction. Finally, another splash or a slosh. Something moving in the unfrozen waters below, along with a heavy snort and a noise too low to be a whiny; a grotesque noise sounding more beastly and guttural like a squeal, sickly and drowning.

Suddenly more concerned with what lay down below, Rainbow quietly asked, “What the fuck was that? Is there a hot spring down there or something?”

Spitfire, just as concerned, kept her ears honed on what sounded like more squeals and splashes joining the first she heard below.

“It’s so cold and barren out here. How can anything live down here? What’s down there.”

Cautiously, Thorax moved back, raising his right forehoof to hold against his face again, sneering down at the two mares.

“There are no hot springs on this side of the mountain. Down there is only more of that black ooze, and I don’t know what they are. I just call them cold ponies because that’s what they are. I’ve evaded them before, but that’s because I was careful and quiet… Be.. more… careful—”

Seeing the concern and likely growing number of questions his two new companions were likely to ask, he quickly pulled his hoof away from his cheek and forced a smile that failed to hide the pain he was fighting.

“—my friends. This path is not easy to take, but it is the safest one I can take you through. But we must move faster now.”

From down below and much farther away, a faint hue of green flashed, followed by a dull crack sounding like stone or ice snapping. More or the same flashes came with another series of cracks, but this time with howls and squeals growing louder from the other side of their group, and they might have been closer.

“Spitfire, help our friend up and start moving her. I need to scout ahead and look for a new way out of here. Even if it might be harder, we can’t keep going down anymore.”

[Further below in the depths of Mount Everhoof.]

Pharynx stood battle-ready at the newly caved-in wall he created, huffing and puffing in rage, his horn still glowing brightly, ready to blast away at any threat were to force its way through.

“WHAT IN TARTARUS WERE THOSE THINGS!”

Behind him, Haltere stumbled around in a half circle, his vision clouded through a haze of hazy aqua-colored blue, and his voice muffled behind the ice covering his head.

Elytra, finally able to recover, dropped the still unconscious Gaster and limped over to her comrade, her right foreleg covered in a heavy coating of ice as well.

“Stop moving around, you idiot!”

With a strong swing of her icy hoof, she bashed ice on ice, cracking off only a portion of her own imprisonment in the process.

“Pharynx! Do something!”

A small blast of green light hit Haltere’s ice-covered head, knocking him to the ground. Enough ice broke free to reveal his blue eyes behind a glossy black battle helmet, allowing him to finally gasp desperately for air… and then promptly scream.

“ARE YOU TRYING TO GET US ALL KILLED!”

Unphased by the complaints, Pharynx marched past Haltere and Elytra to look over Gaster.

“You’re wearing armor, dummy. Would you rather suffocate?”

Finally reaching the last member of his team, Pharynx looked down to see Gaster looking no different than before. Unmoving, unresponsive, barely breathing, but now more of a burden to all of them with the new dangers popping up around them.

“Haltere… You said the path was clear. Are you blind or stupid? You put all of us in danger.”

Struggling, Haltere gave a hefty push on his helmet, splitting off more of the ice to free up the rest of his vision and easing muscle to speak more clearly.

"It was clear! I wasn't going to let your backstabbing brother get the drop on us. Those things came out of that black stuff. That's the only explanation. There was nowhere else to hide."

Pharynx gave a heavy sigh and lowered his muzzle to under Gaster's forelegs.

"Fine. Maybe they did. We don't know what they are or even what that gunk is. Both are clearly dangerous and now we have even more reason to return to the hive. If more of them can appear and jump out to start attacking changelings like us, the whole hive is at risk."

As dire as the situation was for these changelings, that news still gave them hope.

None more optimistic than Elytra.

“Our Queen will have to take us back! We’d be heroes to the hive!”

Pharynx finished maneuvering Gaster onto his back, then looked out to the faintly lit cave spaces that lay ahead of them.

“We’ll need more than that. Our Queen demands that Thorax is turned to face judgment and returned to where he belongs. But without evidence of those creatures rising out of the ooze, his face will be reason enough to remove what remains around our home. So we’re bringing Thorax back, one way or another.”

Still shaken but remotivated, Haltere took position to the right of Pharynx.

“This black stuff doesn’t move on its own like it did when it first showed up and attacked us. That means that it will all flow down… We need to try to avoid climbing down to get out and think about climbing up, even if it might take longer.”

After a few more kicks to break off that last bit of ice around her hoof, Elytra moved to the left of Pharynx, seeing a wide open path and plenty of risks to take.

“Those things move through the air like fish in water. Pretty fast, too.”

Fearing the worst but hoping for a miracle, Elytra raised the right carapace shell over her back and extended her wing. Brittle frozen fragments on the edge of what remained of half of her wing broke away and fell to the ground she’d be limited to traversing.

Stuck in the center, Pharynx didn’t need to look to see Elytra’s current state. He knew the hit she took. There was no mistaking the disadvantage they were in.

Even still, he wasn’t giving up.

“We are the Hive. We are not weak. We are all we got. Ponies are weak. Ponies run and hide when the going gets tough, but we’re not fools either. Even if I made Haltere fly you up there, Elytra, those things would still take both of us out before we even made it out of the shadows.”

Taking that assessment as an insult, Haltere turned to Pharynx and hissed.

“Hss! Who said I would even—”

“Hss!” Pharynx readily turned with a glare and hissed back, making Haltere back down. “You’d do it if I made you do it. Now move up and take point again. But this time, don’t screw it up.”

Not ready to leave the only other able-bodied changeling un-insulted, Pharynx turned to Elytra with an equally miserable glare.

“And just because I don't think you’re weak doesn’t mean I don’t think you’re not sloppy. You lost a wing and injured your leg because you were carrying Gaster, so now I have to carry her for you. That means you’re bringing up the rear from now on.”

Unsurprisingly, Elytra came to feel just as insulted by the criticism and fired back with what she viewed as a valid point.

“What? Haltere got hit, too! I don’t see you calling him sloppy!”

This time, Pharynx got right in Elytra’s face, muzzle to muzzle, pushing her down into submission further and further with every jab of his hoof into her head as he spoke.

“That’s because he was smart enough to block the attack with his helmet, dummy. You didn’t even think to use Gaster’s shell. It’s strong enough to take a hit.”

That last bit of their argument must have been too loud because just as they were getting heated up, heavy thumps, smacks, and cracks of ice started growing from the other side of their emergency cave-in.

On a more important note, they had more critical matters to attend to and less reason to stay and die, and Pharynx really didn’t want to die. So, after spitting a glob of his secretion to Gaster’s forehooves that would normally be reserved for securing a cocoon, so they would adhere to his chest, he gave his orders.

“Haltere, stick to the walls. Find us a path up and out of here. Elytra, you’re my eyes and ears for what I can’t see behind me, but don’t you dare fall behind or slip off the wall because I can’t carry both you and Gaster.”

“What?”

“I SAID MOVE!”

[Meanwhile, back in Cadence's Royal Chambers.]

Having spent most of the morning crying out the fear of the unknown and all the anguish of her losses, Fleetfoot remained rather motionless next to Cerb. Still laying as comfortably as possible, her aches and pains held passively at bay through a combination of whiskey, medication, and Cerb’s comforting touch, she contemplated her future remaining at his side.

“I can still coordinate training. Manage recruits from the ground… maybe take up archery.”

Cerb kept his sore arm over Fleetfoot. Sure, it hurt, but she needed the comfort more than he needed his own. Not that he would have been doing himself any favors by letting her suffer any further.

“We both need to learn to walk on our own again, and senior leadership is more about knowledge and experience than motivation and potential… and archery sounds cool. I’m sure we can brainstorm a lot more when Dash and Spits get back.”

Cadance, sitting patiently near the foot of the bed, looked somberly toward the pair.

“Yes. Justin is right. I sought you out before because of the value you would bring to our goals, providing Justin the expertise he would need. That does not change now, despite your prognosis. Also, I’m sure we can bargain further leverage with Auntie Luna. She requested to visit and speak to me regarding the travel ban… While neither Fluttershy nor Rarity are royalty, they are considered representatives of Equestria, who, by my own interpretation, threatened me… The proper response would be to send a pony over to discuss the offense and work out a solution.”

On the other side of Cerb, Thunder sat nervously.

"I hope nothing comes up about me. I'm technically not supposed to be here… I've never gone AWOL before… I might be out of a job and not even know it."

Author's Note

Sorry if the start of this chapter confused anyone, but I wanted to fill in some gaps that... no one seemed to catch in the first arc. Sure, Discord used his black Chaos Vines to destroy the Tree of Harmony, but those vines should have sprouted up and been defeated years ago... Right?

Well, here's why that all was able to go down. Also, this helps give a bit more insight as to why the Deer Kin's vines were able to work on Harmony as well. Or, at least for this world's Equestira/Harmony.

Either way, everyone is still trying to figure things out, and real adulting is hard. Politicking is way harder.

Just ask Twilight and Celestia who... well... Those two still got issues. Even if they think they're working things out, I don't think they know the kind of conflict they might be heading for.

Then again, Ovens and Twilight worked out okay. So, maybe there's hope for these two.

Also, filling in some more gaps, now you really know how that pony-sized dent got put in the hospital room Cerb was staying in and why Becky told him to leave. Also, maybe seeing Cerb like that... Maybe that has something to do with all the animosity Ember had towards Fluttershy and Rarity.

Let's see... Oh! Daybreaker is still around... sorta. Not sure if Celestia should be fucking with her like that, but at least Daybreaker isn't a total nutjob.

Tying another loose end, remember Blueblood was mentioned being sent away so he wouldn't cause problems? Well, I didn't. Now he's back and everyone's problem.

...mostly Tia's.

Oh, yeah... Shit's going down in Mount Everhoof still. Didn't have any chance to get artwork put together for Dash, Spits, Thorax, or anypony else stuck under all that ice. Maybe next chapter, though.

Lastly, Fleetfoot sounds like she's doing a little better. Although Thunder Glide is nervous, it is adorable.

Anyway, this will sadly be my last submission for the year of 2023. My health is has improved in some areas while getting much worse in others. Besides that, I'm finally getting the chance to go home and see my family for the first time in (I think) 5 years, and it won't be for a funeral.

When I get back, I'll be hitting the grind and hopefully putting out some more great content for you all to enjoy.

So, in 2024, or whenever you find this, look forward to see what happens next in Chapter 11:

Bad Medicine.

Also, acknowledgments to my story support:

The Fan Without a Face:

Editor for Chapters 01 - 03, 5, 7

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