Luna Nos Custodit

by Tsuguri

Rating: teen
Tags: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Other, Princess Luna, Prince Blueblood, Princess Celestia, Main 6
Length: 61638

She knows what is coming, only She is willing to pay the price. Above all else, Luna Watches Over Us

Luna knows what is coming, and only She is willing to pay the price. For above all else, Luna Watches Over Us.

I have this posted in several other places, thought I would try my luck here.

This is my first submission for FIMFiction, and my first work of fiction outside of an assignment, ever. So all comments are welcome, even a bad review can hand over good advise as long as it explains why.

Published 2012-10-17 11:50:01 UTC
Last updated 2014-06-26 21:56:32 UTC

Twilights Fade

Slowly, ever so slowly her eyes opened once more. Praying, pleading that the scene had changed since she passed out. Sadly it seemed her prayers continued to fall on deaf ears. She still hung chained to the wall, instruments of pain and agony still littered the room, and she slowly started to feel her own pain again once more.

'How long was I out this time,' she wondered to herself, 'an hour, a day, a week? Please princess, just make it stop.'

Looking down at herself now she was reminded of her last session here. The burning brands, the cutting whips,... her own voice screaming for mercy and the torment of knowing none was forthcoming. Blood matted her sides and stained the wall around her. How much could a pony lose before she had no more to shed? However much it was she had a feeling that she was already past it. She had so much on her flanks that her cutie mark was hardly even visible, the stars had long since lost their shine and were mostly concealed.

Again she tried to remember what it was like before, and again she could only remember her last conversation with the one responsible for her current pain.

****

"What did you just say?" Twilight Sparkle asked with astonishment written all over. She was surprised when she had received the summons and even more shocked when it specified meeting her at the old castle deep in the Everfree Forest. She was skeptical when it instructed her to come alone but she was confident she could make the journey and even more intrigued by the requirements. But now that she was here and had heard the request, she was still dumbfounded about what was going on.

"I do not believe I have misspoken or was unclear with my request Twilight Sparkle, I stated that I am in need of your assistance." One of the most powerful ponies in all of Equestria was asking for her help? She would have been honored and overjoyed at hearing these words if were not for the rest of the her statements.

"Right I got that part, but I don't believe I heard what you need my help for right."

"The part about wanting you to help me overthrow my sister's rule? Again I do not believe I misspoke or was unclear. It is exactly as I stated. She has grown soft and weak since my imprisonment and as such she is vastly unprepared for what is coming. I had hoped for more time to prepare but things are progressing faster than I had anticipated, if something is not done soon I fear for us all."

Princess Luna, the co-ruler of the Kingdom and Mistress of the Night wanted her help in overthrowing Princess Celestia her own sister, the other co-ruler, and Twilight Sparkle's own teacher? Ridiculous! She had to get out of here and find some way to warn Celestia before it was too late; fate it seemed had other plans through.

"I can see be the expression on your face that you believe me to be mad. Fear not, for I am quite sane and after this night I promise you shall agree with my logic as well." Confidence radiated from Luna and Twilight Sparkle slowly started to back away as the princess's horn started to slowly glow with the beginnings of an extremely powerful spell. "Guards restrain her!" Luna commanded as she concentrated on summing her powers. The commanded guards dropped from their positions overseeing their monarchs conversation and proceeded to flank Twilight Sparkle and hold her in place. Even though she had once considered the personal guards of the night princess somewhat brooding, she had to admit now that their dull armor and leathery wing shapes were very intimidating.

'O.K. Twilight think and think fast. Can't outflank them, I'm already surrounded. Can't out run them, flying is so much faster than galloping. Can't fight Luna head on, not without my friends at my side. So the only thing left to do is..." And at that moment Twilight Sparkle, one of the most magically gifted ponies of the land, simply disappeared.

"Curses, I had forgotten how skilled she is at teleportation." Luna swore instantly dispelling her horn and motioned to her guards, "You two, alert the rest of the Guard. She must not be allowed to reach my sister before I am finished with her or we are all doomed!" The two dark Pegasi were already in the air before she had finished her command, swiftly flying in opposite directions to inform their few remaining brethren. 'I meanwhile, shall have to track her in my own fashion,' Luna intoned to herself as she slowly melted into the darkness, mists quickly enveloping her form and streaming away into the night. The hunt was now on.

***

'Blasted Everfree forest,' Twilight lamented as she reappeared still well within the forest and nowhere near her library home. 'At least I got away. I'll have to save my magic for when I get closer to town. It would run out too quickly if I am limited to just small hops.' She still didn't understand how the forest limited her range, and she hated not understanding, but for now all that mattered was that it did and she would have to run the rest of the way. 'Scratch that idea' she mused as she witnessed some of the Night Guards flying overhead in an obvious search pattern. 'Looks like it's slowly sneaking and quick dashes from here on out. No matter what happens I have to warn Princess Celestia. It didn't sound like Luna's plans were ready to implemented yet so I can't afford to be caught.'

"Twilight Sparkle, you will show yourself and submit to my authority." 'Great, she's using her royal voice again.' Twilight mused as Luna bellowed, solidifying not five paces in front of her. 'I didn't know she could still do that, I thought it was lost once she stopped being Nightmare Moon. At least I'll be able to hear her coming.'
Luna looked over the bushes and brambles in front of her. She was sure she had tracked the errant pony's trail to the correct exit location, but it seemed she had already moved on. Assuming the form of her dark mists once more, Luna raced off into the night searching desperately for a clue about Twilights location.

'This is going to be a long night' Twilight groaned as she slowly started to pick her way through the trees in front of her.

***

She had no idea how right she was. She crawled whenever there was cover and made mad dashes when there was not. She was always mindful of the night sky and the dangers it represented, the Pegasi she could she and the bellowing mists she could only hear. She was covered in minor cuts and a few bruises from hard landings against the ground by the time she reached the mountain range near the forests edge and could finally see the distant lights of Ponyville. She allowed herself a quick moment of rest before she tried her teleportation spell again, and that rest proved her undoing. Before she could comprehend what was happening, numerous shapes appeared around her and enveloped her in a swarm of bodies. During her confusion, one the forms had quickly thrown a sack over her head and secured it while another hit the back of her skull, sending the pony into unconsciousness.

"Away, away before the others come." She could hear as the noises slowly fade away from her. Strangely she had heard a bellowing scream followed by even louder thunder before she finished passing out, and when she had awakened she had found herself here. A place she did not even believe had existed until that night. A place without light, without friends, and without hope.

'How long before she comes again, she always seems to know when I wake up.' Twilight dreaded her appearance, she knew she heralded more questions followed by more pain but she would not let her win. 'I will never betray my Princess,' she swore to herself yet again, 'Never."

As if her determination was a signal, she heard hoofs approaching the door. Knowing what they represented, she steeled herself for more and held the memory of Celestia's light in her heart, knowing it was the last light she would ever see.

***

"Has the creature done anything more since our last visit?" Luna questioned the door guards before proceeding into the chamber. "No Ma'am," was the reply, "It just sits and waits as always. I fear you will never get anything out of these visits."

"I know that," she snapped. The chances of anything positive happening had been near zero since that night. "But I have to try. Twilight Sparkle is but one of the many keys we will need in order to win this war and this is the last chance we will have for a good while."

The guard wisely decided to keep his mouth shut at that point. The Princess was in a foul mood, fouler then her usual visits to her private dungeon warranted. He knew of her temper and decided quiet obedience would earn himself the least amount of trouble.

"Very well," Luna sighed to herself, barely audible to the guard, "Let us get this business over with." As she slowly opened the door and heard it groan, announcing her entry into a world a pain once more.

***

Twilight Sparkle lifted her head at the sound of the creaking. It was as if the designers knew just the right amount it took to instill dread into their victims. 'Rarity might be able to give them some personal fashion tips about how to accentuate the effect, but as for the decor? They got that nailed perfectly.' Even the small amount of warmth she felt thinking about her friend was extinguished as the figure came through the door once more.

"Well, Miss Sparkle," the figure intoned, "Are we feeling more cooperative this evening?" Attempting to meet her eye's once more, Twilight raised her head even higher, but was once again thwarted by the deep hood the figure wore. 'Why does she even bother,' Twilight questioned herself, 'She knows I know it's her and yet Princess Luna continues to hide behind that cape and hood.'

Indeed, the figure wore a concealing cloak which covered her to the floor and a hood so deep only her elongated horn emerged from it. "Ah, I see we are still defiant till the end my dear Miss Sparkle. However, I must inform you that this will be our last session together. For you see, we no longer have time to dally with you. Tonight you shall break, this I guarantee." The voice was cold, colder than even her previous visits and the confidence in it made Twilight shiver in her mind.

"Ah, it was fun will it lasted, Miss Sparkle. But now let us begin where we left off last time. What was it again? Oh, I know! The lighting!" Coming closer and closer with each utterance, her horn glowing brighter and brighter, little arches of electricity flying from the tip, until finally touching her with the last words.

Pain. The pain once more took hold of Twilights body. She tried to keep it inside. Tried to be strong for her friends, for her Princess. But in the end, faced with a pain with no purpose, with no end,...

All one can do is scream.

***

The door slowly opened once more in front of the guard. Of all the duties of the Night Guard, this was one of the worst. Even if the beings on the other side deserved it, it was still hard to hear their cries and remain unmoved. Some enjoyed the duty he knew, got a small thrill off of it, but not him. He just tried his best to drown them out and be ready for any duty his princess required of him.

Even so, he was still taken aback slightly at her appearance. Gone was the determined and firm visage which had entered the chamber beyond. Now it only carried remorse, a trace of sadness in its eyes and, an astonishing amount of blood.

"Twilight Sparkle is now beyond our help." She intoned, the guard wincing at the implication of this statement. "Remove and dispose of this creature, and make sure you are not seen. We cannot risk alarming the citizenry just yet."

The guard once again decided silence was his best course, nodded his assent and glanced into the chamber beyond. The amount of blood on his princess's face was nothing compared to the amount that decorated the room. It was as if someone had filled a party balloon to the brim and lobbed it into the center, aimed squarely at the form laying on its side barely recognizable as a pony of any breed. Battle hardened though he was, the sight still made the guard's bile rise into his mouth, but his Princess was not done with her commands just yet.

"After your task is completed, send word to the Apple Family. We shall quickly require a meeting between their new Family Head and myself. We have wasted too much time here as it is and must act swiftly if disaster is to be avoided." Given his duties and knowing their significance, the guard knew a reply was required and fell back on the oldest form known.

"Luna Nos Custodit." He intoned.

"Yes, that I do," was her reply as she slowly walked away.

***

She could still hear them. The darkness hadn't claimed her yet. She knew they were talking about her but could not make out the words. All she could do was pray to Celestia that it would finally end.

'Is that what you wish my dear little pony, do you truly wish for my assistance?' She heard the voice not through her ears but through her mind. Something she had never experienced before, but the familiar words brought a warmth back to her soul. So what if it didn't have her teachers normal kindness, what emotions can telepathy relay anyway. All she knew was that her Princess, her Teacher, her Mentor was finally here and offering her help.

'Yes," she managed to whisper back, 'Please, help me.'

'Then my assistance you shall have!' the voice shrieked as it plunged a dagger of ice into her mind. No more breath to scream, no more energy to even move. All she could do was moan as she felt herself slip once more and pray that she never had to wake up again.

Apples Fall

The day slowly cooled into the evening. A refreshing breeze was blowing through the orchard, kicking up miniature dust devils and carrying loose leaves along in its wake. The coming harvest was promising to be a bumper crop, capable of earning the family vast profits this year and allow them to soon expand their capacity even more. All the signs seemed to be pointing to a prosperous times for the Apple Family, but these same signs brought little cheer to the golden colored pony approaching a young freshly planted apple sapling.

Tired from a long days work and still soaked with the sweat of her efforts, Applejack stopped to remove her trademark hat and wipe the sweat from her face before she finished her advance. Her heart was still heavy and torn from the previous month's happenings. "Hey there Granny," Applejack commented to the sampling. "Hope you like this here spot. We got you a nice view of the entire orchard here. You'll still even be able to oversee the Sisterhooves Social every year. I just hope I can do you proud." Slowly lowering her eyes and her voice, Applejack slowly started to weep. The tears she could hold back while she was occupied began to pour forth whenever she allowed herself to reflect on the past now.

It all started with Twilight Sparkle's disappearance. No pony had seen hide nor hair since Fluttershy had seen her enter the Everfree Forest. When asked where she was going her only response was that she needed to 'investigate something.' Knowing how Twilight could get when she was investigating, Fluttershy could only wish her good luck and remind her to beware the cockatrice. She didn't want to find her turned to stone again; once in a life time was more than enough for her, thank you. Twilight had assured her that she would be fine and to worry more about her animal friends this close to night fall. Fluttershy had taken Twilight's advice and was now in the processes of tormenting herself over it.

When Twilight failed to return by sun up the next day, her friends began to show concern and then outright worry when she still did not return by that night. The following day, they had roused most of Ponyville to search the entire forest if need be to find their friend. Rainbow Dash had lead the aerial search, pulling half the Pegasi of Cloudsdale into her efforts. Fluttershy had turned her entire animal reserve into a wide-range communication hub, animals constantly running to and from the forest with news and tidbits of information. The other earth-bound ponies joined in the ground search, Rarity even got very dirty in the process and Pinky Pie started cracking fewer and fewer jokes as the time wore on. Applejack had also joined in the search, of course, and had even badgered Big Macintosh into helping. They had both left young Apple Bloom in charge of the farm and searched tirelessly for nearly a week before the second event which had cut their search short.

Scootalo had swooped down on them and breathlessly delivered the news that Granny Smiths hip had given out again. In the course of her fall she had hit her head and was not expected to last long. Shocked and stunned, the brother and sister could only glance at each other and, with a quick word of apology to their team, started a mad dash back home. Deep as they were in the Everfree, it had taken them the better part of the day, but they had never once stopped to rest. Upon their return they had found the young filly sitting out on the front porch, silently crying and only glancing up when she heard them clamor to a stop.

"I tried Sis. I really tried but it was so fast, and then she wasn't moving and wouldn't get up. I sent Scootalo into town once she came by, but it was so long and, and, and I didn't know what else to do!" The young filly started to bawl and fling herself onto the porch, trying to hide her helplessness and despair from her older siblings. Applejack could only spare her a quick pat on the shoulder and an assurance that she had done the best she could. A glance over her shoulder informed Big Mac that he should stay here and comfort her, he had a special way with words after all. A quick nod from him and she was into the house, desperate for some good news.

It was news she wasn't destined to have. She found her granny lying on the living room couch, covered with one of her favorite blankets, and barely breathing. Nurse Redheart from town and several other Apple relatives were gathered around, all sitting or standing quietly just watching her.

"What's wrong with you all," she had exclaimed. "She's not dead yet. Surely the Princess's Protection Spell will kick in any minute now. She'll be up and dancing around again before you know it!"

"Applejack," the nurse had said softly. "you know the spell only protects us from external injuries. It can do nothing to protect us from ourselves, or old age."

Applejack just lightly brushed her off and carried on over to her granny's side. "I'm here now Granny, you hear me? I ain't going anywhere." At the sound of her granddaughter's, voice Granny Smith smiled and barely cracked open her eyes. "Twi... ...kle," her voice barely more than a whisper and so soft Applejack had to strain to hear it.

"We ain't found her yet," was her reply. "But don't you worry none. We'll find her."

"I... know. ...time left. You lead..." The voice had gotten just a bit firmer at the end there, knowing it was almost time and needing to make itself clear.

"What'ya mean no time left? We'll see Twilight again before you know it. The rest of my friends can do it just fine."

"No." The voice was laboring again needing to make itself understood. "You... lead... family now. You must lead..." And with that, Granny Smith fell back on her pillows. Her eyes closed once more, and chest stopped moving.

"Granny?" Applejack questioned softly. "Come on Granny, this ain't no time to be fooling. Granny? GRANNY!" Sobs starting to rack her frame as she finally collapsed and let the exhaustion overtake her. Just burrowing her head in her granny's blankets and letting out all of her grief and despair.

***

The silent form of her bother sliding up beside her brought Applejack back to the present. The sun had already dipped below the horizon, and the wind was starting to really bite now. "Hey there big fella, just talking to Granny some more," was her only explanation. Big Macintosh knew when words were required and when they were not, and he knew this was one of those not times. So he simply came closer and sat next to his sister, providing all the support he could just by being there.

Glancing at Grannies tree she thought back on the old family tradition. About how different it was then the rest of Equestria. They had held the traditional wake in the house with all of their relatives attending. Some attending out of genuine grief, others out of simple tradition, and some even looking over the new power balance amongst themselves. She could see it in their eyes, sizing up the new family head and wagering how much more they could squeeze out of her. At least they would wait until Granny was solidly planted into the family plot. Each Apple family member upon death was buried in the family orchard in their own special area. Each had their own tree planted above them, a living tombstone that would be nourished by the life they had lived and a reminder of what they were.

"This one will be a fine old tree. I'm sure of it," she muttered after a bit. "Granny was so stubborn at times. I'm sure this here tree will be one of the biggest producers we have ever seen." His only reply to this was a trademark, "Eeyup."

"Thanks again Big Mac. You always know just what to say." Gratitude was making itself known to her face again, and was also slowly being joined by a firmness which had been noticeably absent of late. "Alright then. I guess it's time I start acting like the head honcho Granny wanted me to be. How is the rest of the family doin', and what was that Night Guard messenger doin' here earlier?"

Big Mac smiled to himself. This was the sister he remembered. This was the sister who would be leading the family and keep some of the more troublesome family members in check. Silently he withdrew two sheets from his carrying bags. One rough sheet covered in notes and lined in his big strong hoof. The other was a fancy piece covered in flowing script and big fancy words. It was the former Applejack scrutinized first, Big Mac's own thoughts and musings of the current state of the family and where their true allegiances lay. "Like you thought, huh? Some of those trouble makers from Manehattan are making a power play. Sayin' I'm too inexperienced in "family matters" to properly lead them? Like they know anythin' about runnin' this farm. Why, most of them have never sweated a day in their lives!" Big Mac sat quietly throughout Applejacks little rant, just nodding his head at the appropriate places and agreeing with her.

"Now what's this fancy piece of parchment want with me?" she mused as she began to read the second note. Her eyes slowly scanning the page, starting out with a bored expression which just jumped to disbelief and then to outrage. "Who the hell does she think is?!" was her initial response. "First she starts out all flowery and fancy, about how she feels for my lose, then she has the gumption to request a meeting about the future of Equestria. Like I really care about that right now. And what in tarnation does she mean about havin' new information about Twilight? That crazy mare was the only one who didn't send help for the search. Even her sister spared half of her Royal Guard, and she has the nerve to say she now has information!" The fire in his sisters eyes was starting to worry him. Whenever she got this worked up, there was hardly anything any pony could do to break her out of it.

"And wanting'to meet in the Old Castle in the Everfree Forest? What is wrong with her." At this point Applejack whirled to her brother and faced him head on. "The meetin' those upstarts are planning is in two more days right?" she demanded and he just nodded. "Right. Find somepony to take word back to Princess Luna. If she wants to meet we'll meet. But we ain't meetin' in the Everfree. Oh no, we will be meeting right here. If 'm going to be the head of this family then it's high time I start enjoyin' some of the perks. She'll be meetin' me on my home turf. Let's see what she says to that."

Big Mac just nodded once more and then ran off towards the house. With Applejacks ranting finished he had a job to do. Applejack watched him go for a bit before turning back to the young sampling. "Don't cha worry Granny. We might not have found Twilight yet and the rest of town might have given up but not this little pony. No ma'am. If Luna says she knows somethin' then I'll hear it and help to bring her back. Just you wait.

***

Midnight had already come and gone by the time Luna's advance guard approached the farm. Even though it had taken another full day for the letters to flow back and forth between the two leaders, Applejack was still as fired up as before over her meeting with the Princess. "If I find out that she knew something and didn't tell us all, I swear, Princess or no Princess, I'll give such an applebuckin' it'll make the moon itself shatter," she swore to herself.

It took several more minutes for the Night Guard to be satisfied with the area. They searched around the various trees and bushes for unwelcomed eavesdroppers, politely ignoring her the entire time but giving Big Macintosh several dirty looks. Both siblings ignored them all right back and stood waiting for the Princess herself to arrive.

When the lead guardspony did signal an all clear, Luna did appear promptly and instantly gave her an annoyed look. Both sibling, after prior agreement, neither bowed or acknowledged her royal presence.

"Ms. Apple," Luna began after a quiet moment had passed. "I believe we had agreed you would come alone to this meeting.

"Well shucks, I do remember you requestin' that but I don't remember actually agreen' to it." Applejack shot back. "If you all think I'm stupid enough to go anywhere alone right now then I seriously doubt we'll be havin' an intelligent conversation." Luna bristled at the remarks, even more so at the restrained contempt in the Earth Ponies voice, but she had to remind herself that she did speak the truth. "Now let's all cut to the chase and get this here over with. We've got a busy day tomorrow and will be needin' our beauty sleep before long."

"Very well, I shall go directly to the heart of the matter. I require your assistance and the assistance of your family."

"To be doing what exactly?"

"To help me fight a war."

That threw Applejack for a loop. Sure there had been an occasional tussle and scrap she had taken part in. The short aborted battle with the Buffalo Tribes in Appleloosa came to mind. But no pony had actually fought in a war since forever. In fact the last one recorded was when... "Y'all are meaning to overthrow your sister ain't ya." she accused. Luna at least had the dignity to look surprised by Applejacks quick deduction and nodded her assent.

"If it comes down to that, yes I will. However I am still hoping to avoid unnecessary bloodshed."

"Ain't no way and ain't no how am I ever betrayin' the Princess. Me and my whole family are good decent ponies, an even the more questionable ones would never dream of hurtin' her."

"I figured you would claim as much. Twilight Sparkle spoke similar words before her disappearance." Applejack's world was rocked for a second time that night. Twilight Sparkle had heard this speech?

"When? How? Fluttershy was the last pony to see her an she said nothin' about helpin' you with a rebellion."

"That is not quite the truth. Ms. Fluttershy was not the last pony to see Twilight Sparkle. I was, and I offered her the same choice I am offering you before she disappeared."

Applejacks blood was not just boiling anymore, it was raging! She was responsible! No wonder the Night Guard failed to help in the search. They already knew what had happened and refused to tell them!

Bellowing her rage, she did what she had sworn she was going to do. She charged the Princess of the Night. However she was tackled to her side before she got in bucking range by a pair of Night Guards. They stood looming over her, their forms as menacing as ever before they themselves were knocked aside.

"Thanks, Macintosh." Applejack said as she picked herself back up. "What say you to showing the here hooligans that it ain't wise to mess with a member of the Apple Family, let alone two of 'em."

"Ee'yep." was his only reply before they threw themselves at the surrounding guardsponies, determined to take them all down.

Or at least as many as they were able. The end result still found the pair pinned down to the earth. Applejack required just three guard ponies to keep her pinned, but Big Mac still had six struggling to keep him down. Luna had brought more guards than even she felt was necessary. After her failure to restrain Twilight Sparkle she was determined not to make the same mistake again.

"Quite impressive," Luna muttered. "Just the two of you were able to do this much damage against some of my elite guards."

"Well shucks," Applejack threw back. "If these here were some of your best, then it's no wonder you want us to join you. If we had had some time to prepare there ain't no way you would have been able to stop us."

"I sense the boast in your claims, but there is a grain of truth to them as well. I am even more convinced than before in the necessity of your families recruitment to my cause."

"And just how do you plan to go about do'in that? We'd both die before we joined you"

"Oh I think I have a solution that does not require that extreme of a measure." Even as she was speaking, Luna began to gather her powers. Her horn started to glow brighter and brighter until it made the eyes water.

The two Apple siblings spared a quick glance at each other before the spell fired. Whatever it was they would face it together.

***

"Oh, my head. How many times do I have to tell you Big Macintosh to not break out the strong cider so dang soon." Applejack complained as she clamored to her feet. Shaking her head and glancing at her surroundings instantly reminded her of the events of the previous night. Night Guards still loitered around the area, but gave her a wide berth. Princess Luna was still present, sitting several yards away watching the sun rise with her back to Applejack and her brother.

"Oh my gosh! Big Mac!" She whirled around looking for her elder brother. She found him curled up on his side beside her. A dazed expression on his face and his eyes cloudy as if a fog had settled there.

"What did you do to him?" She exclaimed anger and concern vying for control on her face.

"The same thing I did to you." Luna replied, not even bother to turn and face her accuser. "You just happened to recover faster than him due to your strong heart and role as a holder of an element of harmony."

"So it's true huh?" Applejack muttered as she strode over to sit next to the Princess. "An honest to goodness war really is comin'."

"Yes," was Luna's simple reply. "And there is nothing my sister can do to stop it."

"Now look it here," Applejack exclaimed. "I ain't swearin' fealty to ya and I ain't goin' to do anything directly against the Princess, but I guess I ain't got much more real choice in the matter do I?"

"My dear Applejack," Luna softly replied. "You will always have a choice. It is simply if you assist me or if you would rather wish to die."

She cringed at hearing it put so bluntly, but respected the conviction the tone conveyed. A single glance over her shoulder at the sounds of her brother coming around confirmed his rise to conciseness, and a single nod from him was all the encouragement she needed.

"Well, I reckon there's just one thing left to do." She simply replied before swiftly turning on her front legs and letting Luna have a fully loaded double shot of her hind legs straight to the face. As she looked down at the astounded Princess whose eyes were still whirling around inside of her own head she motioned for the onrushing Night Guards to stand down. "That was for knowing all about Twilight and not telling us. I promised myself I would do just this if I found out just that, and I always keep my word." She reached down and slowly helped the Princess up and faced her squarely. "Now that that's out of the way, I guess all I have left to say is Luna Nos Custodit." The words simply sprang out of her mouth. Never hearing the phrase before she looked a little confused before she realized from where the new knowledge came.

Luna allowed herself a small smile. Truth be told, she would have had a hard time restraining the large one that threatened her composure, but her face hurt too much even with a small one. Even that did not diminish the relief she felt. After all the trials and hardships, things were starting to turn in her favor.

"Well, we had better get movin'." Applejack said breaking into her reverie. "If I don't hurry and get myself into town, I might not be the Head of this family for long. Seeing as how we might need you to pull off your magic trick again on stage, think you could give us both a lift?"

"I think we can arrange something." Luna softly said meanwhile pondering, 'By Discord this filly can really kick!'

She motioned to her guards to prepare her transport and sat back to heal herself. The day had just began and there was still plenty of more work to do before it was finished.

Splintered Family

The wind rushing by her face was nothing really new. After all of her adventures and games with her fellow Crusaders she was used to speed; and truth be told she felt that Scootalo had pulled them faster before in their cart, but Apple Bloom had to admit that the added excitement of being so far above the clouds was just amazing! She had trouble tearing herself away from the view at the front of the carriage. She just couldn't get enough of the wind in her face while looking down so far to the ground. She had been surprised when her sister had swooped down at the house to pick her up, Seeing her big sis and brother riding along with none other than THE Princess Luna was shocking, but no more so when they told her to climb aboard and join them on their way into town. Normally she would have been apprehensive about joining royalty or flying so high, but if her sis and bro were fine with it then she could handle it as well.

Her worries had been left back on the ground as they took off. Normally she would have been quite curious about the hushed conversation her family was having with the princes, but right now she just didn't care. How many other times would she get to experience this! She was so caught up in her sensation that she was startled when her sis started calling out, "DASH! RAINBOW DASH!"

Looking over to where she was shouting Apple Bloom could now make out the shape of the fastest flier in all of Ponyville, no scratch that, in all of Equestria zipping about and gathering a group of darkened clouds from all over the sky. Upon hearing her name she stopped momentarily and zoomed on over, pulling alongside and easily pacing the royal carriage.

"Hey guys, what's up? Hanging out with royalty now?" She called out smoothly, not even breathing hard after her bursts of speed.

"The Princess here was kind enough to offer us a lift into town." Her sis called back. "We're runnin' a tad late to the latest family tussle at town hall. What's with all the cloud wranglin'?"

"Weeellll... with all the time we Pegasi spent looking for Twilight we're a little behind on our weather jobs. So we have to have a small storm now to compensate." Rainbow Dash called back sheepishly. "Don't get me wrong," she hurriedly added, "we haven't given up yet! We're still looking for her when we can and everyone knows to keep an eye out for Twilight and Pinkie whenever we fly over the forest! We just couldn't put this off any longer."

"I know Dash it's just... What a second, what happened to Pinkie!?"

"Oh don't worry. She's not lost, she just refuses to leave to forest. She's practically living in there until she finds Twilight. We still see her now and again and always drop some supplies off when we do."

Apple Bloom sighed in relief with her sis. After losing one friend to the forest the thought of losing a second was terrifying. But if Rainbow Dash said Pinkie Pie was all right then she knew it was fine.

"That's a relief," Applejack called back after a second, "moving along though, when is this here storm of yours supposed to kick off?"

"Once we get all the clouds together, another half hour or so."

"Listen, would y'all mind waitin' until we get into town? Wouldn't do to show up to a big shindig looking all washed out."

"I suppose so. I'll talk to the others and slow down the our collection speed. Good Luck!" Dash called out before shooting away to find the rest of the weather group.

"Ok. Now that that's settled, Apple Bloom I've got a job for you to do when we land."

****

The skies were definitely darker by the time the family landed in front of the hall. Although the clouds looked ready to burst it appeared Rainbow Dash had come through since not a single drop had fallen just yet.

"Alright now, you two remember your parts?" Applejack asked her siblings. Big Macintosh just nodded while Apple Bloom chimed in, "Scout up any of the fillies and colts that are here and herd'm out of the main hall." "Good let's go get this done and keep this family together."

Watching the trio stride towards off Luna could only smile to herself. The conviction in Applejacks voice was reassuring to all, but now she had her own plans to prepare. While the carriage soared off into the darkened clouds it would have taken very keen eyes to realize the princess was no longer aboard and even keener still to notice the dark mist that drifted into a vent on the halls back side.

****

The hall was filled with voices. Some raised in heated debate, others calling out for attention, and very few others calling for silence and order. All in all, a scene of political chaos. Applejack watched from outside for just a moment more, confirming who was seated with whom and who was trying to control the situation. With one last glance at her fellow sibs she finally flung open the doors and calmly walked on through. She might have even gone unnoticed if it weren't for the large lighting flash and even larger thunder boom which accompanied her entrance and instantly silenced the entire hall. 'Thanks for the help there Dash.' She thought to herself while openly she proclaimed, "Howdy all! Looks like you couldn't want for me to get this thing started."

"Applejack." A cultured voice called from the stage. "We were unaware of the need to delay this very important meeting any further. Considering the fact this is to establish the next family head."

"Uncle Orange." Applejack called back sweetly. "Forgive my confusion but I thought that this was already decided."

Orange had the decency to at least not openly laugh at this statement but the amusement was there in his eyes, along with a touch of resentment that she could just make out. "Ah, yes. I can see how that would be confusing. While Granny Smith may or may not have named you her direct successor, we would still need to have the rest of the family acknowledge it."

"What are you implyin'?" She was barely holding her anger back. "Are you claimin' that I fibbed about Granny's last words?"

"There were very few other ponies around when she spoke those words and they claim it was almost impossible to make them out. Even so, she most certainly was not in her right mind and there is the possibility she was hallucinating who she was talking to."

Taking several deep breathes, she reminded herself that anger was not the way to win this. She would have to calmly win over the rest of the family in order to remove these accusations, and it was imperative that she did win them over. Otherwise they were all possibly dead.

"Not withstandin' the fact that I was there and I heard her words and that I intend to keep this responsibility she gave me, why shouldn't I be the Head? I'll be running Sweet Apple Acres regardless and that's where the head has always lived."

"That is true since Granny Smith was the only Family Head we have really had and she refused to live anywhere else. And in regards to that, I heard from some traveling brothers that they had won the Orchard in a Cider making contest. Care to explain those claims miss?"

"First off, it was Granny who actually made the wager. Second, we never actually bet the Orchard. And thirdly, we won since the town rejected to cider those Flim Flam bothers made and declared us the winners." 'Calmly, calmly.' She thought to herself.

"Be that as it may, how can we expect one as young and brash as yourself to handle this responsibility?"

"While I may be a youngster next to some of you, I've had a lot of experience. I've ran a booth at the Grand Galloping Gala, helped to face down two of the biggest threats this land has faced in a thousand years, and have had personal meetin's with the Princess, BOTH of them in fact." While she was reciting off her accomplishments she was also scanning the room, watching the families reactions and watching her siblings. Big Mac was holding steady right beside her and she could only just see Apple Bloom moving among the other youngsters, slowly herding them out of the main hall. 'Everythin' goin' along fine so far.' A crease of annoyance crossed her face as she noticed a dark mist up high near the roof. Jerking her head towards the back stage she glimpsed it drift in that direction and then turned to her brother. "Now since Big Mac here is better at these speakin' gigs then myself, I'll let him take over for a spell while I go get me a drink."

Big Mac didn't even bat an eye as he stepped on up and began fielding questions from the wider spaced family members. After Applejack stepped off stage she charged right up to and stared down the princess who had just solidified. "What in tarnation was that all about?! I thought we agreed that I needed to do this thing myself?" She threw at her.

"Calm yourself." Luna threw back. "I have done nothing to your family, yet. I was merely interested in seeing how this plays out. And I must commend you, you are handling this better than I had believed you would."

"Well thanks for the confidence." Applejack rolled her eyes and then continued on. "Apple Bloom has the yougnens all most out of the hall now. You're sure that it's necessary though?"

"Very." Was Luna's sharp reply. "My spell needs to be very finely tuned, and it is too powerful for any young minds to be exposed to. They would run the risk of being completely overwhelmed."

Thinking back on her own experience with the spell, Applejack shuddered. She would have done anything to keep Apple Bloom away from that spell before, that feeling now doubled with this additional comprehension. "OK. She'll have them out in a moment. Just make sure you're ready when it's time, but NOT before! You understand me?"

"I understand you quite well Ms. Apple. If it makes you feel any better then I shall remain here and prepare. You will not see me until the appointed time."

"Good." Seeing that her brother was wrapping things up she added. "Almost time then, just need to win the rest on over now."

"And how do you expect to do that if I may ask?"

"By doing what I do best. Bein' stubborn." She threw over her shoulder as she headed back on stage. Once there Big Mac stepped aside with a simple nod to her. "Thanks for the speech Big Bro. Now do any of you all have any other objections?" She was hardly surprised when Uncle Orange stepped back up, that he was accompanied by Cousin Crabapple was a shock though. The younger pony was dressed as casually as ever, just his working hat and a simple bandana around his neck. She remembered giving him that bandana for his last birthday and was surprised at what she was seeing in his eyes now. Sure he had expressed some resentment at the main household but she had never seen the hate that was in them now and she never thought he would actively challenge her.

"Now see here Applejack," So it would be Uncle that was the spokespony, "Macintosh has made some excellent and moving points in your favor, but I am still not convinced you have the required strength to successfully run this family."

"I understand your concerns Uncle Orange," now it was time for the confrontation and for confession, "I know I let you and Auntie Orange down all those years ago. You taught me the rules of society well and I just up and ran out on you both. But understand this, runnin' back to the farm was what I needed to do. I've tried to make it up to you both since then but know it was never about you. I had just realized where I needed to be and it was here in Ponyville and not in Manehattan. I'm truly sorry about that." She could see her uncle softening under her words but he still firmed up after she was done.

"That is neither here nor there. What I what to know is that you are willing to see this venture through."

Seeing her opportunity Applejack walked onto center stage and marked out a line. "All right then. Here is my determination. I'm callin' on the clause for a buckin' competition."

Uncle Orange finally had the presence of mind to look unnerved. "Now just wait a moment.."

"Now you all know that I'm the strongest apple bucker there is and that I could take any of you all out in one go so here is my proposal. One shot. I'll not move from this here spot and every pony gets one free shot to knock me out. If I can withstand you all then I'm the head honcho and if I fall then that pony gets it all."

Looking at the fire in her eyes Orange could only shudder. Young Crabapple however could only see the opportunity. "You're on!" He eagerly called out.

Orange looked over at him and whispered "What are you doing?"

"Seizing the opportunity." He whispered back before calling out, "So who gets to knock her hat off first?"

There was some murmurings and shuffling of hooves, then a few stallions started to make their way to the front and like a wave they gathered more as they came. As they gathered round and started to hash out their bucking order, Big Macintosh approached his sister with a concerned look in his eyes, one Applejack was starting to share. "Well, that's more then I thought. But don't worry I can take it." At the stern look in his eyes she bowed her head. "Didn't say it was goin' to be easy, but think back to last night. I have to take it. You just make sure they play fair and only take their one shot."

While the order seemed to be finally settling down Applejack prepared for her first challenger. Meanwhile, Crabapple muttered softly to himself at the end of the line. "Oh she's tough. I know that. She won't fall before we get up there. Oh no she won't. But by then she'll be weak and dazed. She won't be expecting the surprise we have in store for her will she." "No, that she will not. And soon this family will belong to us."

****

The beating took more than an hour to finish. Even if she had issued the challenge and even if the others only got one shot a piece, it was still just a ritualized beating to Big Macintosh. His sister started out defiant enough, cracking jokes along the lines of "Hardly felt thatin'" or "Come on, Apple Bloom can buck harder," but after just 15 minutes she quieted down. By then she already had the makings of a black eye and had a split lip. After a half hour she hardly said anything, she just took the blow and staggered back a step or two but never went down. She just took a minute to gather her wits again and stepped back up to the line, after spitting out any fresh blood from her mouth she would simply call out "Next."

Finally though the end was in sight. Only young Crabapple was left and while he was a decent applebucker in his own right, he was nothing compared to the others who had already gone. After this his sister could rest and move things along.

"You sure you don't want to surrender now cousin?" He asked her. Applejack didn't bother with a reply, and even if the fire in her eyes had diminished behind her swollen lids it still burned bright enough. "Can't say I didn't warn you." He said before nimbly spinning around and launched Applejack off her feet. Big Mac could only watched astonished as his sister flew through the air. While others may have knocked her back or staggered her, no pony had actually launched her! Only after she landed in a crumpled heap did he find the power to move again, rushing over to her side while Crabapple swaggered over the astonished crowd.

"Well, I guess that settles things," He was saying, "Now that she's down I guess I'm the Head Pony and I have a few things to say."

"Hold on there young one," Uncle Orange called out, one of the few who choose not to participate. "The rules say you have to knock her out."

Crabapple just looked at his uncle for a few seconds before comprehension make him whirl around again. Big Mac was still by his sisters side, but being very careful to not actually touch her, she had to do this on her own. But slowly, ever so slowly, she was making her way back to her feet. It took her a good deal longer than any of the other times, but she still made it. Her head was obviously still swimming and she was close to blacking out, but she still staggered her way back to the line and blankly looked around. "Next."

"NO! IMPOSIBLE!" Rage shook Crabapple as he charged her once more. Before he could get in range though he was slammed aside by a very large force. Glancing up he found himself locking eyes with a very angry looking Big Macintosh. "Nnnope." Uncle Orange walked along side and pulled him to his feet. "You only get one shot like all the rest. You also lost like all the rest." Looking back and forth between the two older stallions Crabapple still could not contain his rage and furiously stomped over to join the rest of the defeated.

Uncle Orange slowly approached Applejack who gently turned to face him. "Next." Was all she said. "No." He replied. "No more next. No more debate. You had proven your skill and now you have proven your resolve. So no more."

"No more? No more," She slumped down and would have passed out if not for Uncle Orange holding her up. "Now now. We can't have that can we. Not when we still have some business to attended to."

"Business, right." Now that the blows had stopped she was slowly regaining her wits, she could feel her mind clearing, and could feel the protection magic of Equestria slowly start to heal the worst of the damage.

She started to stagger to the front, guided by her Uncle and then her brother who had rushed back on over. By the time they got there her mind was mostly working again and she could stand on her own. Uncle Orange addressed the crowd, "I submit that Applejack has proven herself capable and able to lead this family. As such I nominate and acknowledge her as the new Head of the Apple Family. Do I hear any objections?" Scanning the assembled crowd he could see none. Even young Crabapple, still furious about being denied, stayed quiet. "No? Then I present to you all the Leader of this family. Applejack." So saying he turn to face her and knelt down to one hoof. All the rest followed his example, even Big Macintosh, and soon Applejack was the only one standing in the entire hall.

Applejack would have been blushing by this point if her face wasn't already black and blue. "Oh get on up everypony. You all know I don't care for formality like that."

"Nevertheless it needed to be done." Her uncle said while everypony regained their feet. "Now as also needs to be done, we need to hear from you what your directions are."

Looking over the crowd Applejack felt a small rush of excitement. She had done it! She had held onto the title that Granny had given her and secured their future. A voice from back stage shook her out of her revelry however. "This has taken far too long. We need to make haste or my presence will soon be missed." Right, now she just had to survive that future.

"I know you all are hoping' for some grand speech but I hate to disappoint. I'm not the speech makin' type so I'm just goin' to say what we all need to do. Expand. We are going to expand into some metal workings. Those of us with finance, start buying metal ore and shippin' it the farms. Those with farms, build smithies and be prepared to process that ore and fashionin' steel. That steel will be turned into blades and armor and these will be stored and used to equip the army."

With all of the confused and astonished faces one of them managed to speak up, "Excuse me ma'am, but what army?"

"Why the army we will be fieldin' and providin' to fight the comin' war." A gasp of pure surprise arose from the crowd. "Now I know you all don't know a thing I'm talking about yet, but I got someone here who can explain it all. And who can prove this will profit us in more ways than one." And on cue Princess Luna burst on stage, her horn glowing brightly and spell casting before anypony could comprehend it.

As the crowd stared at the light, one by one they dropped to the ground. Their eyes were still open but no longer seeing, a grey film covering and clouding their vision. As the light faded only three figures remained standing. Princess Luna, Big Macintosh, and Applejack who exclaimed, "Why'd you go and do that for? We were going to explain to them first right?"

"That was the original plan, yes." Luna stated as she started to wander through the crowd. "But we both knew it would come to this in the end and like I said we need to make hast. I merely shortened the time this will take."

"That may be, but I still don't like it. Anyways, why aren't Big Mac and me also taken another nap?" She glanced at her brother who was also checking on the unconscious family. "We saw the same light as them."

Luna was stopping on occasion, her horn glowing as see knelt down and examined some pony or other "That is simple. You have already been exposed. I do believe once was more than enough and did not see the need to subject you to it a second time."

"Well thanks for small favors I guess. So what's it you're doin' to my family?"

"Checking for spies. I thought I felt a trace of her presence during your ordeal and now I need to make sure." Her horn glowed brighter as she approached young Crabapple and as she glanced down to regard him she realized two things. One was that his eyes were not clouded over, and two that he was in the process of drawing some form of dagger from his bandana.

She realized this just in time to dodge backwards, only receive a graze along her cheek. With a roar he surged to his feet and charged the Princess, ready to inflict even more damage but suddenly found himself slammed aside for the second time that night. "Nnnope." Was all Big Macintosh said as he watched the young one pick himself up again.

"Twice now, twice you would deny us our vengeance!" Applejack startled at the change which had overcome him. His voice now whipsawed between high and low, he crouched low to the ground like a Timber wolf ready to pounce, and his face... by Celestia she had never seen a face so contorted by anger and rage. It was as if there was something else inside of him trying to claw its way out. "Eeyup." Was Big Mac's only reply. While he was as shocked as his sister at the changes overcoming his cousin, he was to focused to let down his guard just yet. In fact the only one whose composure had not changed was the Princess who now regarded him with a look of sympathy and contempt.

"I thought it was you. I see you at least found a decent pawn this time."

"Oh yes. This one was filled with much hate and resentment. Such delicious emotions, he practically welcomed us in. All for a chance at power and glory long denied. He has indeed made a fine vessel." Even as he talked, Crabapple was circling around, his blade poised, eyeing his opponents and looking for an opening.

"Same old tales and promises I see. That has never changed."

"Oh but it will. Yes it will. Soon you shall be removed and your threat will be gone forever! Cleansed by fire and by our purpose!" At this last exchange he charged at the weakest link he could find. Directly at Applejack who was still recovering from her ordeal. Just before he could strike however, he was slammed aside for the third time that night. Not by Big Mac this time but by a magic field being projected by Luna. The field pinned him to a wall and proceeded to expand and cover his whole form.

"Even if that were true you will not be here to see it happen. Every other time you had already slipped away, your damage done and your pawns discarded." Luna's eye misted briefly at the suppressed memories. "Not this time. This time I will end it!"

The field started to glow and crackle. The energy rapidly building and discharging into the air. "You can't be serious! You would destroy this vessel just to silence us!"

Hearing these words both Applejack and Big Mac looked toward each other and started running for the Princess. "If it means completing my goals you know I would. I am not my sister."

By now the field was reaching critical levels. It now formed a small concave shell around Crabapple and still held him against the wall. The side was hazily transparent with small bolts of electricity flying from the edges and wherever they struck they left a bright welt and smell of ozone.

"NOO! STOP! Cousin, cousin applejack, please she means to kill me. It's gone now, she can stop! Save me, Please!"

"Stop it!" Applejack pleaded finally reaching Luna's side. "See his voice is back! It's left him! You can let him go now!"

"Don't be foolish!" Luna retorted. "You know I cannot do that. Once taken he would never be free again. He would serve until his purpose was done or he was a dried up husk. That is the way she works, you also know this to be true."

Applejack looked back through her memories and saw what the Princess meant. Looking once more at her cousin she decided to face him head on. "She's right. I hate it but she's right. So all's I can say is that I'm sorry Crabapple. Sorry I didn't realize this sooner and be able to do somethin'. I'll do what I can so that others don't suffer as you have."

"Liar! Bitch! You never cared! We shall return! Just you wait and see! We shall strike you down! All of you!"

Without ever taking her eyes off her cousin Applejack quietly said, "Do it." Luna fully charged the field which then glowed with an even brighter hue.

"AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The scream seemed to carry on forever until it was silenced by a sickening pop. Then it abruptly was quiet and the hazy view through the field was obscured by a crimson liquid which seemed to completely flood the shell. Once Luna dispelled her field the liquid sloshed down the walls and spread across the floor with Crabapple laying in the middle of it. Applejack, mindless of the blood, rushed forward and crouched next to the still form."I'm sorry cousin. I really am."

"He was a weak and pitiful excuse for a colt." Luna said breaking into her sorrow. Applejack just glared daggers at the Princess. "However he was a member of this land and a member of your family. I shall summon my guards so they can dispose of this body and clean up the mess. We have little time left before your family awakens and this should not be the first sight they see."

Glancing at her sleeping family Applejack was forced to agree. "Alright, but you ain't disposin' of this body. We have our own ways and we'll be stickin' to them. Just hold onto him until we can find a nice apple patch to plant him in."

"If you insist. He is your kin and your rights will not be challenged. I shall leave his ultimate location up to you."

Turning back to her fallen cousin Applejack could only softly weep and started repeating to herself, "Luna nos custodit, I'm so sorry Crabapple but luna nos custodit.." She stayed there the entire time until the Night Guard arrived to take him away.

****

"Couldn't this have waited until morning?" The stallion yawned, "Some of us need our beauty sleep you know."

"No, it could not." Came the sweet sounding voice from the shadows. "Our fly in the orchard was discovered and silenced before accomplishing its mission."

"Oh dear me," the stallion mocked, "whatever shall we do. They are just a ragged band of peasants and farmers, what threat could they possibly be?"

"This ragged band of peasants is one of the most connected families in this realm. You would do well to remember how far their reach can extend."

"Yes, yes, I'll keep it in mind. But so what? So they get to stay hidden in the dark for a bit longer. Once our latest piece is ready we shall have no more need of these petty games. Speaking of which how is the piece coming along?"

"Slowly. It provided much more resistance than usual and as such will require even more preparation to use."

"Pity. Once it is complete my dear Aunt will have all the reason she needs to eliminate the problem for us."

"Pray you are right young lord." And with that silence returned to the room. Walking over to his window they stallion let his gaze wonder over the city of Canterlot and watched the sun illuminate it.

"Yes Auntie dear, do bring light back to the world. We can't be wallowing in darkness forever can we?"

Rainbows End

OK, I think it is time I started putting in some author notes.

First off, a big Thank You to all of the people who have rated my story so far, even those who gave me a thumbs down. However, going forward I would really appreciate it if you would also tell me WHY you are giving me the rating you are. Love it or Hate it, it is all fine buy most importantly tell me why. I will never be able to grow and change as a writer if nobody ever talks to me about what I am doing.

Thanks for Reading!

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Turning her gaze back towards her viewing orbs, the Princess of the Night regarded them with a cold stare as she stayed seated in her chambers. "Are these reports accurate Lieutenant?"

One of the dark-coated faces replied, "Yes your Highness. The smithies are now fully concealed and operational. We have had a few scouts poking around but we remain undetected. Once our supplies are stocked we can begin full production."

Noting the nervousness in his voice the Princess pressed harder, "And how long until we can start producing arms we can actually use?"

The guard subtly bowed his head at the reprimand, "That remains to be seen Highness. We have the means and ability but we still lack the required skills. There are only so many blacksmiths we can use. And while the Apples are an industrious bunch, they have never had these skills before. It will all depend on how quickly they can learn."

Luna nodded in understanding and acceptance of the facts. Truth be told they were extremely fortunate to have the skills they already had. The skill of weapons forging was almost a lost art and highly controlled. To find several smiths who knew the art and were not under the command of her sister was a most fortuitous occasion. Turning her attention towards the other sphere she addressed the proud face, "And you my Marshal, how are the troops fairing?"

"Highness, I will admit there is some restlessness in the ranks but we all understand why we must wait. And even the most vocal realize that the time we wait now is nothing compared to the time leading up to it. We will wait and hold the line, and when the time comes, we will be ready."

"Your words are both welcomed and appreciated Marshal. Continue to tell the troops that the time is coming when I will be rightfully reinstated and their return is near."

"Luna Nos Custodit." Both voices chimed in unison before they faded, leaving the orbs looking as clear glass once more. Hanging her head and closing her eyes, Luna contemplated all of the various delays she had suffered. In truth she knew she was actually further along then she should have been, but it was still not fast enough. Not if she was too... A small noise at her door made her raise her head and magically pull the doors open to find her sister standing regally on the other side.

A small note of worry crossed her mind but she did not let it in her voice, " Eavesdropping is not becoming of you sister."

"Nonsense, I had just arrived and was preparing to announce myself when you noticed me." Princess Celestia remarked as she strode into her sisters chambers and sat on a cushion next to her. Luna regarded her sister cautiously as she started to levitate her orbs back towards their place on the wall. "My, two viewing orbs at once, what would be the occasion I wonder?"

Luna's voice grew slightly chilled at the teasing tone of her sister, "Since I have yet to be fully reinstated as a Princess I have had to make do using unofficial message traffic. I don't have the proper authority to be handing out proclamations and decrees yet."

"Now now, no need for that little sister. You know if I could have you would have been fully reinstated the very night after your return. But this is beyond just my control. The council must also agree unanimously and not with just a majority. The holdouts are shrinking and as time passes they will have no choice but to accept it. Either that or commit political suicide."

"I know this. But they will also hold out as long as they can." Her wing feathers ruffled at the thought. "I am sure our dear nephew will help to hold them together until the very end."

"Let us not start that again." Celestia pleaded. "I know you have misgivings about Blueblood, but he is our nephew and as such his voice carries a good deal of weight."

"You know I have never truly believed him to be of our blood. He is not even an Alicorn for Discords sake."

"Luna! Watch your language!" Celestia was shocked into shouting, her own feathers now standing on end. Luna had the sense to at least bow her head at the rebuke. After both princess had composed themselves Celestia continued, "Now please trust me that I did confirm his pedigree before I admitted him into the castle and that after the many long centuries his side of the family has merely lost their wings."

"Yes sister. I do trust you." Luna replied while thinking, 'However I do question just how much you did before trusting him.'

"Thank you. Now as I said, they will come around in time. Most of them are just still cautious about your temper. Your little tantrum last Nightmare Night is their main source of concern. If you can just keep from passing any more proclamations without cause and without the authority to do so they will come around in time."

'Yes, time. The one thing you are growing preciously short on dear sister.' Luna thought, while outwardly she replied , "As you say sister. However in regards to my other request.."

She never got to finish as Celestia entered full ruler mode and cut her off, "No! That is one issue I will not address. Their crime was not against the land but against me personally. As such it is my sole discretion regarding their fate."

"But surely It has been long enough. The Night Guard only acted out of loyalty. When will they be allowed to be reinstated?"

"When their sentence is complete. Their loyalty may have been towards you, but you were not here. And as such it was treason towards me. Be content with the number I allow you to retain now."

'Be content with a small platoon, when I used to command battalions.' Luna fumed in her mind, but once again all she could do was bow her head.

"Thank you." Celestia said as she calmed herself down into her sisterly self. "Now I know even with so few numbers you have also been quite industrious lately. I was hoping we could share dinner tonight and discuss some of your recent investments."

"I see our nephew's spies are also keeping him well-informed." Luna hissed. "However I must decline. I have more meetings I must attend to tonight after I raise the moon. Perhaps tomorrow? Then I can give you a full accounting of my dealings."

"I am looking forward to it." Celestia replied as she started to rise and leave the chamber. "Now if you will excuse me your Highness, I have other matters I must attend to."

"Of course your Majesty." Luna replied, finding some small comfort in one of their old games while she magically closed the doors behind her sister. After they were soundly shut she resumed her pondering. 'I am disallowed my full resources and time is starting to run short. No matter how well concealed we remain we cannot stay hidden forever and sister is still too strong to confront fairly. I will need to enlist even more aid and with someone whose loyalty to her will not be a problem.'

**************

"You've got to admit that this was an awesome day." They fastest flyer in all of Equestria said to herself. There was no other pony around to hear her comments as she lounged on her cloud rousing from a slight nap and seeing the sun slowly start to set. "Plenty of downtime to work on my moves and get my wingpower up even higher. Next Best Young Fliers competition everypony else should just stay home. I'll have it in the bag. Why Twilight won't even have to..." She trailed off here, remembering her friend. Still no sign of her after all this time, not even a single strand of hair or hoof mark.

Rolling over onto her stomach, Rainbow Dash surveyed Ponyville. "We don't even talk about her anymore, do we?" She continued, "Not that we've had much chance to talk lately. Pinkie's still combing the forest and Applejack doesn't have much time for us any more either." Thinking back on her friend, she started to ponder. Ever since she became the Head of the Family Applejack was always working. During the day she was either in the orchard or in her office, answering letters or receiving family members with 'important' business. At night she was either someplace else or asleep, recovering from the long day and preparing for the next. She seemed like she was handling things OK though. On the few occasions they were able to get her away and share some time together eating or just catching up, she seemed like she was still the same old Applejack just with new responsibilities. However, Dash couldn't shake the memory of the one time she caught her unawares.

Rainbow Dash had stopped by the main house uninvited to deliver an invitation. However the sight of Applejack when she had opened the door had stolen all of the her excitement away. She looked awful. Her mane and tail were ragged as if they hadn't even been brushed all day; she was covered in dirt, leaves, and what looked like soot; her eyes were red and irritated as if she had been crying; and her breath had just the hint of hard cider to it. "Hey just thought I'd... Oh my gosh! Applejack are you OK?"

"Yeah, I'm fine Dash. Just a long day. Did you need somethin'?"

Rainbow Dash hardly believed her but she was able to stammer out, "Well, just letting you know that Pinkie is out of the forest and is throwing a party this weekend, something about filling her party quota and wanted to see if you would come."

"Alright, I'll see if I can make it." She had started to close the door before Dash put her hoof in the way and prevented her from doing so. "Was there somethin' else?"

"You look horrible. Are you sure you're OK? Anything I can help you out with?"

"No Dash. It's just been a really long day. And don't you worry, things are startin' to settle down and my job's about to start gettin' easier. I just got to get through a few more things and I'll be just dandy." Applejack offered up a weak smile to go with her words. This did nothing to soothe Dash's worries though, knowing her friends habit of stubbornness. Seeing Big Macintosh enter the room behind Applejack, Dash gave him a questioning look with a glance at his sister. He looked almost as bad, but he seemed less strung out and more alert. Returning her gaze he nodded as if to say 'Don't worry, she can handle it' before heading up towards his room.

"Alright, but if you need any help just let the rest of us know and we'll be here. Deal?" Dash said as she removed her hoof from the doorway.

"Deal." Was the reply before Applejack softly closed the door. Dash stayed a moment longer and could hear Applejack slowly moving away and towards her own rest.

The party itself had some interesting happenings as well. It was a Pinkie Pie Party sure enough, fun games, happy music, and Pinkie Pie running around making sure everypony was having a good time. Sure it was a little subdued compared to some of her previous parities, but with Twilight not there and Pinkie still gearing up to go back into the forest that was to be expected. "Oh sure I'm going back in," Pinkie would say when asked about her plans, "I would have lost my license as a Party Planning Pony unParallel if I didn't throw this one soon though. Also, I need to plan my packing better. Who would have thought that cakes don't sit so well in saddle bags? I was needing a Pegasus resupply every other day! Cookies now, especially sugar cookies, will be much better. Why I should be able to pack a week's worth of them no problem."

The other interesting thing was that Applejack had actually made it to the party. She had even cleaned up and looked like her old self, but it was like she wasn't all there. She no longer seemed to have as much energy as before; and as the party went on Dash noticed her take a discreet sip out of a small flask from her saddlebag. Seeing Dash watching her, Applejack just gave a small shrug before putting the flask away and returning to the party. Dash watched her for the rest of the night, but flask never appeared again. Still, Dash just couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong with her friend. Once the party was winding down and after she had finished coordinating future supply drops into the forest with Pinkie, Dash approached Applejack and asked about the flask. "Ah shucks, you don't need to worry about that none. Just some old family medicine to help me unwind." While Applejack had glanced away during her answer, it was only for a second though, she reassured Dash that everything was being handled and to not worry.

However Dash did still worry. Even though they had all promised to try and help each other more after the party, they still only rarely ran into her in town and she was always busy. 'Ever since she became the Head, we've been losing her.' Dash thought to herself. 'Ever since I saw her leaving that day with Princess Luna she hasn't been...' " Well speak of the Princess." Dash could just make out the form of her recent thoughts flying over the Everfree Forest. It was obvious she was trying to be discreet as she was flying just over tree top level, was using her own wings and not her carriage, and she only had two guards with her. Most of these sneaky advantages where negated since Rainbow Dash was looking down at her and could easily see their elongated shadows on the tree tops in the fading light. 'Now where are you trying to go all sneaky like?'

Waiting until they were well past her cloud, Rainbow Dash lived up to part of her name and dashed from cloud to cloud being careful to stay hidden and only moving after the guards had already glanced in her direction. This carried on for some time until the guards suddenly slowed and then dove under the tree tops. The princess hovered over their landing zone and seemed to just stare at the horizon for a moment. Wondering what she was looking at, Rainbow Dash risked a quick peek only to facehoof when she realized it. 'Of course, duh. It's night time now and she's raising the moon.' And indeed she was. Dash could just make out the large magical aura around the princess' horn as the moon slowly rose in the sky. Even after the moon was fully over the horizon and her magic dissipated, the Princess hovered a moment longer just watching the moon begin its slow march across the sky. Eventually she too sunk below the trees and was lost to Dash's sight. 'OK now, what was so important that you had to leave the palace early and bring out the moon here? And what does Zecora have to do with it?'

***********

"Greetings and salutations I give to you. Rest, stay awhile and maybe have some stew." The zebra said as she admitted the princess into her tree home. The guards, Zecora noticed, did not make any moves to enter and instead started a slow patrol around her home's clearing.

"My thanks for agreeing to receive me on such short notice." Luna replied as she entered and surveyed Zecora's home. "I am afraid I will have to refrain from the stew. I have much more work to do after we are finished. It does smell lovely, so please don't let me keep you from your diner."

As she returned to her pot Zecora resumed her sing-song speak, "Much thought and meditation have I given to what you wrote. Tell me why it should be different with you here, at my throat."

Luna watched as the zebra added a few more morsels to the stew and left it to simmer. "Understand me when I say I did not come here to threaten or coerce you into helping my cause. Merely, I am here to clarify in whole words what I could only hint at on parchment."

"Since you are a Princess I gave fair consideration to what you had written. Now please explain and implore but remember, one is already twice shy after only once being bitten."

"In short, I wish to talk about what happened to your homeland." Luna intoned gravely.

An interesting contrast of restrained sadness and anger crossed Zecora's face as she faced the princess head on. "What's done is done and not up for review, now I would explain myself if I were you. But be warned and be cautioned, no tricks and no lies, do not even think of trying to cast a spell over mine eyes."

With a serious but humble expression on her face Luna replied, "I would never dream of it."

***********

'Feathers.' Rainbow Dash thought to herself, 'I had an easier time sneaking up to those Appleloosan Buffalo with Pinkie than sneaking past these guys.' She had to land further away than she had liked and was still only making limited progress past the roaming Night Guards. Even though there were only two of them, they knew their business. They seemed to be able to move around randomly; and there was rarely a time when her approach to the tree wasn't being watched. She probably could have just walked right up and asked them what was going on, but her curiosity and mischievous side had gotten the better of her, and she was determined to pull this off.

Finally her chance came. She quickly zipped across the ground and hid under Zecora's window. Carefully making sure she would be hidden from their view when they returned, she gently raised her head and concentrated on the conversation inside.

************

Zecora's head was slumped down in deep thought and was hardly moving. Not wanting to be a pushy guest, Luna let her think. After a few more minutes she rose up and began to mix the stew some more for her host. 'What kind of guest would I be if I let my host burn her own supper?' she jokingly thought to herself. As she levitated the pot from the flames Zecora's head came up and faced her squarely once more. "If what you say is true, then I fear I have no choice but to side with you. However my confusion compels me to ask, what would you have me do, what would be my task?"

"Things are moving much more swiftly then I had anticipated and I am moving more slowly than I had hoped. My fear right now is that when the time comes to confront my sister we will still be under-prepared. The arms are behind schedule, the number of followers I can call on is limited, and while my own powers are mostly restored they are still only equal to Celestia's so my victory is not guaranteed. I need someone who can help me face her in open battle if need be." At the puzzled look from the zebra, Luna decided to carry on. "I know I can count on any of my followers to help subdue the army or guards if they have to, but they are all still sworn to my sister. They were pledged by their families when they were born and they pledged it themselves once they reached maturity. For the past thousand years she has been all they have known. I need someone who has never sworn themselves to her service and can be counted on to fight and even kill her if need be." A small flash of pain crossed the princess' face as she admitted this, which she hid by stirring the stew some more. A small sound outside a window caused her to glance out, but all she saw was a guard making his rounds.

"If it must be, it must be, though I pray the day never comes to pass." Zecora chimed in, holding the princess's attention once more. "Now all this talk has distracted me from my meal, would please be so kind as to help and pass me a glass?"

"My pleasure." Luna returned as she started to levitate dishes from all over the kitchen. "And I must say it truly does smell delicious. Maybe I can stay for just a moment longer and try some before I leave for my next meeting."

************

Rainbow Dash couldn't move, heck she had a hard time even breathing after almost being found out by her gasp. She was just hoping to get some idea about what the Princess was up to sneaking around and now she overhears her plotting to kill her own sister over dinner! She had to act fast, because no way was she going to let that happen. Luna was right about one thing, the loyalty the ponies had for Celestia was immense. Rainbow Dash remembered the time she confirmed her own vows of loyalty as one of the proudest days of her life! And with being the holder of Loyalty she just had to do something, but what! She had to alert Princess Celestia that's for sure but how? Even at her top speed she was worried about the time it would take to reach Canterlot and who knows what could happen to her on the way. There had to be someplace closer to help than... APPLEJACK! The orchard is just outside of the forest and she now had access to one of the best communication networks in all of Equestria. If something happened to her on the way to Canterlot Applejack would make sure the message arrived anyways.

She glanced around at the guards as she formulated her flight plan. 'OK, speed is now as important as stealth. Stay low to the ground and don't go above the trees, just zip around them. Go too slow and they'll see me, go to fast and they'll be able to track my wind trail. Ready, and, GO.' She zipped out of her hiding place during the one brief instant the guards looked away. She was flying so low she could feel the grass and leaves kicking up against her stomach as she flew as fast as she dared. Never in her life had see tried something like this before; flying so fast and so low, and in the dark no less! However the terror she felt in her gut robbed the experience of any thrill. For if she crashed here then not only was she in trouble but her princess was doomed.

*************

Applejack sat quietly at the kitchen table methodically polishing the metal in her hooves. After a few more swipes of the cloth, she gazed at her refection in the blade before laying it down on the table with the rest of the sample shipment. 'We're gettin' better,' she thought as she glanced over the other blades and armor pieces on the table, 'slowly but surely we're gettin' better. That first batch was a joke. The only usable pieces came from the master smiths themselves, my family's pieces were so substandard that they could only have been smelted down and recast. Now these on the other hoof, you can still tell which ones the masters make but now ya have to look for it.'

Without even looking at it her hoof lightly grabbed her glass and she took a small sip, feeling the warm rush of the cider spread. Big Mac just happened to choose that time to walk in though. Giving the weapons an approving glance before turning a disapproving one on his sister. "Oh lay off of it would ya. Ya know I got it handled."

"Eeyup." Was his only reply while he still looked at the bottle with disapproval. "Oh all right here. Happy now?" She said as she re-corked the bottle and moved it over onto the counter. "Eeyup."

"Good. Now the Princess should be here soon to look over this latest batch. So go make yourself useful and make sure Apple Bloom and her friends stay in their club house. I don't want them bein' exposed to all this." "Eeyup." Was his only reply as he headed out the back door. 'Yah, check the Orchard and keep our sister safe. That will definitely do.' She thought. Thank Celestia she had been able to convince them to hold their sleep over in the tree fort. She had forgotten it would be happening the same night as the latest shipments inspection. After what had happened to Cousin Crabapple she was determined to keep her little sister as far away from the Princess as she could, even if she herself was neck deep in this manure patch.

The thought of that night made her glance over at the bottle on the counter. 'No. I'm right but so is Big Mac, I got this handled.' She thought as she settled for just draining the rest of her glass and resolutely placed it into the sink to wash later. As she was readying herself to polish another sample piece a loud pounding came from her front door. "What in tarnation is this all about." She startled. Quickly she grabbed a table cloth and spread it over the pieces. As she made her way to the front door she called out over the pounding, "Apple Bloom! That you! I done told you I got important business tonight!"

However, when she opened her door it was not her sister she found but was instead knocked over as Rainbow Dash burst into the room and closed the door behind herself. "Applejack! We have a huge problem!"

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Oh boy, my first cliffhanger! Anyways, my muse was being particularly brutal when I was writing this chapter and Good Lord the chapters just keep getting bigger! Why couldn't I write this well when I was doing those papers in college!

Anyways, once I was done writing I realized that I should break this up into two parts. The second chapter is all ready to go, but I want to give you all a chance to comment on this one first. Don't worry though. I'll put it up next weekend. Till then, Later folks!

Rainbows End Pt. 2

Pre A/N: Word of warning, this chapter get's pretty heavy at the end.

Also, I don't really like the whole no spaces sentence to show speed talking idea, makes you have to work out whats going on, but I found myself in a position where it was almost necessary to convey the feeling. So to help make it easy to read I switched between normal and italics font between words. Example: Ihopethishelpsyouall!

*********

"Are ya sure it was Rainbow Dash ya saw?" Apple Bloom asked as they all looked towards the orchards main house.

"Positive." Scootalo replied. "I'm the head of her fan club remember? I know what she looks like when she's streaking by and let me tell you she looked scared."

"How could you tell?" Sweetie Belle chimed in.

"Well, I've never seen any pony flying so low or so fast through the forest before. And think about doing all that night! Something must have spooked her."

Just thinking about it caused Sweetie Belle to shudder then reply, "So why are we thinking about going out there? I don't want to meet anything that could spook Rainbow Dash."

Scootalo just glanced at her before becoming excited, "What if this is our big chance. What do you say to being Cutie Mark Crusader Monster Hunters?"

Apple Bloom joined in with, "Maybe. Can't say I like the idea much but we could give it a go right?"

"I guess so." Sweetie Belle put in.

"Great! So let's get moving." Scootalo called as she left the club house, the other two crusaders not far behind. Keeping an eye out for any monsters in the sky they started their way back towards the house, unknowingly on a course that paralleled Big Mac's on his way to check on them.

**********

"Whoa there partner. Try sayin' that again, and this time go slow enough that I can understands ya."

Rainbow Dash was frantic. She coming down from a huge adrenaline high after making it this far and was busy closing all the blinds and shutters in the room, after glancing through them to make sure she wasn't followed. "HowmanytimesdoIhavetosayit! Lunahasgonenuts! She'splottingtokillPrincessCelestiaandhasgottenZecoratohelpherdothedeed! Idon'tknowhowmanyothersshe'sgottentohelpher, soyouneedtosendamessagethroughtothepalacewarningherincaseIgetcapturedbeforeIcanwarnhermyself!" All of that came out in one continuous breath and only now did Dash stop and start to breathe again.

Applejack slowly started to walk back towards the kitchen, being careful to keep her face away from Rainbow Dash. "Now why would Princess Luna want to go and do all that? It makes no sense?"

"Like I said, she's gone NUTS! I don't know why! Maybe she's gone back to being Nightmare Moon but is being smarter about it this time. All I know is I need your help in case I fail to reach the Princess." Dash railed, not understanding how Applejack could be so calm about this.

Upon reaching the kitchen Applejack eyed the bottle of hard cider on the counter, but simply sat on her chair and faced Rainbow Dash. "OK, now just take some deep breathes and tell what it is that you heard and maybe we can figure a way out of this here mess."

That was the last straw for Rainbow Dash. She landed right across the table and slammed her hooves down causing a clatter from underneath the cloth. "There's nothing to figure out. I need to warn the Princess and you need to send a message in case I get stopped. There's," slam, "no" slam, "time" slam, "left!" One last slam and then Dash heard a clang hit the floor. Looking down she found herself staring at a full length sword. Faintly she asked "Applejack? What's this doing here?"

Once Rainbow Dash had looked down, Applejack had started moving. She slowly had come around to Dash's side and reaching under the cloth grabbed hold of the first thing she felt and started to raise it high. "It's the future Dash. The future."

Looking up Rainbow Dash had just a moment to realize what was going on before Applejack struck. CLANG! And Rainbow Dash slumped to the floor. Looking at the dented breast plate in her hoof Applejack just remarked, "A family piece huh? No way a masters piece would be so weak. We're gettin' better but still have a long way to go." Tossing the plate back onto the table she glanced down at her friend before walking out of the kitchen. "Celestia help me but that bottle is lookin' better all the time."

**********

Her head was ringing and she had a headache that could split Cloudsdale apart, and it didn't even have ground to split! Groaning she tried to clutch her head but found she could not move her legs. Any of her legs! Her wings also felt trapped and unmovable. Starting to panic Rainbow Dash opened her eyes and found herself bound with ropes and settled on the couch in Applejack's living room. From the kitchen she could hear voices and they froze her cold.

"As you say. The pieces from your family are still substandard but only just so. Soon we shall be able to start producing useable weapons in mass." It was the traitor princess alright, but the other voice chilled her even more.

"Yeah. We learn fast, I just hope we have learned fast enough. Now as toward our other problem of the night." It was the traitor friend. Applejack was in on this rebellion! There was no other explanation and the thought filled her with rage.

"Ah, I see she is awake."

Dash looked up to glare at the Night Princess and made no attempt to hide her fury. "What do you want, you traitor?"

"First off I wish to congratulate you. There are very few ponies capable of sneaking past my guards. Truly a commendable accomplishment. Secondly I wish to have you join me in my endeavors to help save this land."

"Save it? Don't you mean destroy it! I heard you at Zecora's! You plan on killing the TRUE Princess here and taking over her throne!" Shifting her gaze Dash glared at the other pony in the room, her one-time friend. "And you Applejack? You're helping her do it? I trusted you! I came here because I needed your help to STOP HER!"

"I know that Dash. I know but I couldn't let you do that. Not when we've come so far and given up so much." Adding Rainbow Dash's words to her own memories brought tears to Applejacks eyes, but they were tears she refused to shed. Looking over at Princess Luna she could only comment, "It'll be useless to talk to her about it. Just fire up the spell and get it over with."

"Agreed." Was Luna's reply as she started to gather her magic. Rainbow Dash just glared at Applejack for a second longer and then shut her eyes. Normally she would face something like this head on, but if they didn't mean to kill her, and it sure didn't sound like it, then they wanted to alter her. And after learning a little bit about magic hanging out with Twilight Sparkle she knew if they were going to alter her mind she would need to see the magic. "She is going to make this a difficult endeavor I see. Applejack, you must hold her eyes open for me."

"Yeah yeah, I got it." Applejack replied as she went over to Rainbow Dash. "Now look here Dash. This is goin' to happen so just let it. Don't fight me on this."

"I'll fight you as long as I stay myself traitor." Was the only reply as Dash forced her head deep into the couches cushions.

"OK, have it your way." Applejack said as she pulled Rainbow Dash off of the couch and onto the floor. Even though it was a foregone conclusion Dash refused to give in. Even with all of her limbs and wings bound, even though the only thing she could do was to twist her head out of her former friends grasp and try to headbutt her away, still she fought. Eventually Applejack settled for pinning Dash's head to the floor and slowly pried one eye open. "Ya'll ready over there."

"Quite ready." Was Luna's reply. "I have even had enough time to prepare a larger then average dose to overcome her resistance."

"Then do it before see slips out again!" Applejack called out as the bright light began to envelop the room. Then she heard the one thing she most feared...

"Cutie Mark Crusaders to the rescue!"

"APPLE BLOOM! NO!"

**************

'OK, I thought my head hurt before. Now I really know what that means.' She thought as she rose towards conciseness once more. As she moved to clutch at her head once more, she was reminded of her predicament and slumped in defeat. If she was still alive then that must have meant the traitors succeeded and she was now one of them. What a second! If she still thought of them as traitors did that mean they had failed. That she was still herself! Gingerly, she opened her eyes and found a scene even she wouldn't have wished on any pony.

"Apple Bloom. Come on Apple Bloom, speak to me. Snap out of it, Please!" Applejack was kneeling next to the limp form of her sister, tears falling freely down her muzzle. Big Mac was next to her as well, with tears and a look of utter failure on his face. Even from here Rainbow Dash could see that the little fillies eyes were open but no longer seeing, a grey film covered and clouded her vision. She could see the filly was still breathing but otherwise nonresponsive. And to one side lay the other members of the group, Scootalo and Sweetie Belle both in the same situation. Luna stood over the whole assembly, her horn glowing faintly as see seemingly inspected the trio.

"What did you do to them?" Dash asked softly, shaken by the sight.

"The same thing we did to you." Was Luna's reply, Applejack didn't even react and continued to plead at and nudge her sister. "The difference is their minds were not developed enough the process the magic. It has since overwhelmed and consumed them." After a pleading look for Applejack Luna continued. "It is possible they might yet recover and return to us."

"Yeah I'm sorry they got caught in this, but just so you know you failed. I'm still myself and still loyal to Celestia. I'm not some mindless slave to your goals yet."

"My dear Rainbow Dash you are mistaken." Luna spoke while still examining the crusaders. "I never intended to turn you into a mindless thrall. Such creatures are of limited use and value. You on the other hand are needed for grander purposes. As for my failure, I suggest you look inward into your own mind."

Doubtful about what she would find Dash did what see was told and closed her eyes to do so. A second later she started to squirm and struggle against her bonds. A fine coating of sweat appeared and her eyes flew back open. "No! Stop it!" She cried out before she slumped on the floor once more and gasped for air. Her antics had even caused Applejack to notice and now she just stared at her. "Is that true?" She gasped. "Was that real?"

Applejack just nodded before returning to her sister. "I can assure you it was very real Rainbow Dash. And now you can understand why Applejack and her family has sacrificed so much to help me. And I believe you shall now do the same." Luna now stood over Rainbow Dash, her examination of the trio seemingly finished. "Now I shall ask you once more. Will you help me to save our land?"

Rainbow Dash just glared at her for a moment longer before she slumped in defeat. "Ah Feathers. What else can I do now huh?" Glaring at the Princess once more she asked, "So I guess the magic words to get these ropes untied is Luna Nos Cusodit?"

"Quite right." Luna replied with a sad smile as her magic quickly undid the knots and pooled the rope off to the side. "Now if you will assist me in carrying these fillies off to bed I would appreciate it. The living room is no place for us to keep them."

"Right. I hear that." Dash said as she stretched her wings and glided on over towards the trio. "Rarity's place might even be better than here. In town, closer to the doctors, and more friends to help. Feathers! Rarity is going to kill us when she finds out about this."

Luna looked almost amused at the notion. "I am sure from my understanding of her that she may well try. However I see no reason for her to know the full details of this night just yet." She said this as she gently started to levitate Sweetie Belle off of the floor.

"Yeah, I guess you're right." Rainbow Dash said as she bent down to gently grab hold of Scootalo. Towards Applejack she just commented, "Don't you worry Applejack. All these fillies here are fighters. They won't give up that easily. Right squirt?" She directed at the filly in her care.

Applejack just said nothing and just continued to lay next to her sister. She didn't even move as Big Mac gently scooped their sister up and started to carry her away. She could hear Dash commenting as they moved off, "I think I'll crash here tonight. After getting my head hammered in and then my brains scrambled I don't think I'm in any condition to be flying home." With a quick glance over her shoulder she added, "Besides I think Applejack is going to need the company tonight." She heard them talking but didn't understand the words. All she could think about, all she could see was the image of her sister laying there on the floor covered in an ever expanding pool of her own blood.

Wait. That wasn't right. It was Crab Apple she was seeing, but why did he look so much like her sister. She lay there, peering through her tears trying to make sense of it all. That's right. Crab Apple was dead but her sister was still alive, just dead to the world. Celestia damn it! The one pony who she had sworn to protect during all of this, the one pony who had really mattered now lay upstairs in her own bed but would never again wake up from it again! It was just too much!

Slowly she gathered herself up and made her way into the kitchen. She spared a quick look at the various blades sitting on the table but made a bee line right for her cider bottle. Not even bothering with a glass, she roughly uncorked to bottle with her teeth and proceeded to guzzle the contents of the bottle. She only stopped after the bottle had run dry and looked at it angrily, and with a roar threw the bottle into a wall. "WHY! LUNA NOS CUSTODIT! DAMN IT! LUNA NOS CUSTODIT!" She spun around and stomped over towards the table. Her eyes locked on a marvelously crafted dagger. Obviously one the masters works, a family piece would have been better but she wanted to make sure the blade held. Before she could grasp it however, she found herself slammed to the side and pinned on the ground.

"Oh no you don't." Rainbow Dash said as she sat on Applejack. "We are definitely keeping you away from any sharp objects tonight."

Applejack tried to get up but found herself fully pinned to the floor. "Let me go Dash! I have to... I have to..."

"You have to what?! What is it you have to do?!"

"Apple Bloom she's gone. I have to..." Applejack just broke down and cried at this point. All the energy seemingly leaving her body and just leaving her sobbing into Rainbow Dash's mane.

"There there, don't you worry I'm not going anywhere tonight. So let's say we get you up and into bed. I think we could both use a good night's sleep." Applejack just nodded and allowed herself to be picked up and guided out of the kitchen. 'Celestia help me but this is one long night.'

'Feathers. I'm such a hypocrite.'

********

Post A/N: I warned you all that it was going to get heavy. And in all honesty I really did not see this ending coming. I also have no idea what Applejack was going to do with the dagger, I just wrote with the flow and went where my muse toke me. And now I must say that it was a brutal path.

Now that we have half of the main six down any ideas on who is next?

Also, what did you all think? PLEASE COMMENT! I really want to hear what you all think. Love it? Hate it? But most of all WHY? The more reviews or comments I get, the more I want to write. My muse is such a fickle and vain creature.

Swirling Shadows

Canterlot was bustling and lively under the afternoon sun. Ponies were either running to and fro in a great hurry or were calmly walking by with their noses in the air, scoffing at the unrefined nature of their fellows. One of the few places that seemed immune to the activities was the palace, where the Royal Guards strode with great purpose or stood in imposing silence. Most of the talking was being done by the Sergeants and Officers drilling their recruits and formations for their official duties. Inside the scene was contrasted by the hushed conversations and shadowed whispers of the Councilors and Dignitaries, each planting ideas and maneuvering their allies in order to gain a momentary advantage over their companions in the eyes of their princess.

One of the few ponies who wasn't interested in the posturing of any of these groups was a Wonderbolts Captain who just leaving the chambers of the Royal Nephew and mentally planning out her mission for the next day. From the chambers itself, Blueblood watched her leave and resumed lounging in his cushions. As he levitated a drink from his personal reserves to his lips he was interrupted by a sweet voice from nowhere, "Are you sure this deception is necessary young lord?"

Blueblood covered his irritation at this interruption with a slow pull from his glass, "And just how long have you been listening?"

"Long enough. Why these false claims about dragons? What purpose does it serve?"

"The point is that I should not be the one to discover my aunt's treachery. Any claims that flow though my lips will be instantly challenged and suspect in many ponies eyes. There has been enough... altercations between us that it could be construed as just more mudslinging. If the discovery and charges are leveled by another then all of the focus will be on her. Speaking of which, none of this would be necessary if you would just deploy your piece and get it over with."

"As I have continued to report the preparations move slowly. It will be ready in time, just not soon."

"Hence my deception to our dear Spitfire. We need to curtail my aunt's maneuverings soon or we will face more opposition then we have anticipated. The possible threat of a dragon nesting near Ponyville is enough of a threat to warrant an investigation by somepony more than just a normal scout, and the Wonderbolt's loyalty is beyond question."

"It is as you say. Now as for other pressing matters..."

*****

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the palace...

"No, please. Not again. I don't want to go back. Not again, please! TIA!!!" Luna bolted upright in her bed. Gasping for air and covered in sweat, she focused on her darkened chambers and slowly steadied herself. 'Air, there is air here. Not the moon. It is not the moon.' She continued her small mantra to herself until her breathing came under control and she felt her calm returning. After a final 'not the moon' she felt the desire to attempt rest once more before another voice interrupted her thoughts, "Oh, is the little child of the moon having trouble sleeping?"

Jerking her head back up, Luna scanned her chambers for any presence other than herself. "Where are you hiding? You know I will find you."

"Who says I am hiding child. I am in the same place I have always been." With hesitant eyes, Luna slowly looked towards her mirror, "Right here!", and beheld the face of her own personal demon.

"Why have you returned to trouble me Nightmare Moon. You should still be banished into the furthest reaches of my heart."

"I am a part of you my dear child. You can evade me no more than your own shadow."

Standing to fully confront the image, Luna steeled her resolve and reminded herself of the day she had been rid of her darkest part. "Yes, this I know. But a shadow cannot survive in the light and should just fade away."

"Have you forgotten all that we are? The brighter the light, the deeper the shadow. As long as the Elements exists, as long as your Sister exists, so shall we exist my dear child."

"Stop calling me a child!" Luna fumed, "I am no longer the weak creature who drew on your power."

This elicited a small chuckle from the apparition, "Oh but you are! You have been calling on me more then you realize and that is why I have now returned! Soon I shall manifest fully and reclaim my place in the world!"

"NO YOU SHALL NOT!" Luna screamed as she shattered the mirror with a blow from her hoof. As the shards showered down, she witnessed a horrifying display. Some of the shards still showed the face of Nightmare Moon, others her own face contorted in fear and rage, and some... a strange melding of the two that still looked somewhat whole.

"HA HA HA, try all you like to deny me but I will consume this world in darkness once again! All shall bow and submit to me or they shall fall!" As the laughter died away, Luna looked at the glass shards littering her floor. Once the laugh was completely silent, she cast a simple spell and started to repair the mirror. Only after the spell was complete did she risk a glance at the mirror and but was only confronted by her only own reflection.

'It would not do to let my followers discover this,' she thought as she levitated her chest piece over and slid it on, armoring her body as she armored her heart. 'A leader must always be in charge of herself. In battle, she must never show any emotion which will dishearten the troops. And my greatest battles are yet to come.'
As she composed herself once more, a subtle knock sounded at her door. Feeling calmed and centered once more she called "Enter," and a member of her Night Guard passed through the portal.
"Highness, Blueblood has made a move."

*******

Later that night...

"Oh darling, you look just ravishing. Why, you'll be turning all the heads at your ball."

"Are you sure about the emeralds though? I have always been partial to rubies myself." Rarity lead her customer over towards one of her viewing mirrors in Carousel Boutique, levitating both rubies and emeralds as she spoke.

"Trust me my dear. Rubies, while fabulous, do nothing for your color. Now emeralds, on the other hoof, set off your eyes and will daze the crowd on your entrance."

"Well, I suppose you're right."

"Of course I'm right darling. When it comes to fashion, sometimes you need a second opinion. Now you said you needed this by a week from Saturday? Good, good. I shall have the dress ready by then and will deliverer it personally. Good night now." Rarity carried on as she guided the young pony out of the shop with a friendly grin on her face.

”Good night Rarity. I'm looking forward to it."

Once the door had closed behind her last customer of the night, Rarity's smile faded and her shoulders slumped. As she magically turned her sign from open to closed and dimmed the lights, she surveyed the clutter left by the busy day's work. 'Tomorrow,' she thought to herself, 'tomorrow will be soon enough to deal with the mess. Right now there is somewhere else I need to be.'

As she climbed the stairs leading to her apartment over the Boutique, she thought about the event which crushed her enthusiasm for her work.

She had been outside the Boutique tidying up when she saw the cart rolling up with Big Mac pulling and Applejack riding in the back with Rainbow Dash along side. The expression on all of their faces was something that made her slowly start to panic. "Big Mac? Applejack? Rainbow Dash? What's wrong?"

It was Applejack, head bowed, who quietly answered her. "Rarity... I'm sorry. I'm so sorry," was all she said as she looked at the cart's floor.

Coming around the back of the cart, Rarity couldn't stop her stomach from going into free fall. "What do mean you're sorry? What happened? SWEETIE BELLE!!!" she screamed when she finally saw her sister laying on the cart's floor, her eyes open but flat and unseeing. "WHAT HAPPENED TO HER!" She screamed as she looked over her sister. "It was just a simple sleepover! What happened to her!?"

Applejack's only reply was another "I'm sorry."

Rarity grabbed and shook Applejack in frustration, "SORRY!? Sorry doesn't cut it! What happened!?"

It was Rainbow Dash who pulled her off while Applejack just continued saying she was sorry. "Rarity!" Rainbow Dash screamed, "Cut it out! Can't you see she can't answer you! She's still in shock herself!" Looking down once again, Rarity now realized that her sister wasn't alone. Laid out with Sweetie Belle were her two dearest friends, Scootalo and... Apple Bloom, both with the same expression on their faces. The sight was enough to break through Rarity's panic and let her regain a part of her composure.

"Well, yes. Alright. Let's, let's get them inside for now. We're drawing a crowd out here," she commented as she scanned the faces turning in their direction from the market place. "Big Mac, Rainbow Dash, please be dears and help me," She said as she levitated her sister.

Even after they had gotten the fillies settled in a bed Rarity again demanded an explanation, but never quite got one. All they could tell her was that they were still alive, that they thought it would be better for them to rest here in town, that they should eventually wake up, and... that they had no way to help them. Rarity's desperation threatened to return and she felt compelled once more to shake the truth out of her friends, but one look at how torn up Applejack was made her change her mind. Applejack had hardly moved at all; she just continued to sit alongside the bed and gaze at her sister. In fact, it had taken Big Mac, Rainbow Dash, and nightfall to peel her away and slowly start to move her in the direction of the orchard.

Coming alongside the door to the three filly's bedroom brought Rarity back into the present. She pushed it open, listening, hoping to hear a change in the room beyond, but knew it was in vain.

"Hello there, any change?"

"Hey Rarity," Spike answered from his place alongside the bed. "No, no change. I thought Apple Bloom might have started to come around earlier but nothing happened."

"Oh Spike, don't worry," she answered as she ignored her own advice, "they'll come to eventually."

"Yeah, they're tough fighters," Spike answered. He had been such a dear coming over to help every day. Even though she would like nothing better than to watch over her sister herself all day, she could not just close shop; she needed the money now more than ever if she was to support her sister and find a treatment. Spike had volunteered once he had heard the situation and diligently sat with them every day. It was a nice change for him since he had been just sitting at home all day. At least here he could be doing something.

"Are you sure you don't wish to stay the night? I know it must be so lonely in the Library right now."

"Yeah, I'm sure. It's not so bad, Owloysius still comes by on occasion. And who knows,... Twilight might still show up herself," He answered with a small hiccup as he choked back a tear.

Rarity came along side and drew him into a hug. "There, there. It's ok. Let it out."

"I miss her so much," he said as the sobs started in earnest. "First Twilight and now them. What's going on? What did they do to deserve all of this?"

Rarity held him close until the tears started to dry up. Some nights were worse than others; this was one of the better ones. But in a weird way this helped to deal with her own torment: by having to be strong for Spike, she was forced to be strong for herself. "Better?" She asked.

"Better," was his reply. "Thanks again Rarity. See you tomorrow," he said as he made his way towards the door and dimmed the lights on his way.

"Tomorrow," she called after him as he left and she assumed his place at the bed side. Looking at her sister laying between her two friends, she could almost believe they were just napping in the soft moonlight from the window. But the fact that they still had their eyes open and were staring gave lie to the illusion. As she felt the wariness of the day steal over her she laid her head down beside them on the bed. "Just for a moment," she whispered to herself. "Just give me a moment," she repeated as she drifted off into slumber.

**********

"What? Where?" Rarity called out as she jerked awake. "Oh dear, did I do it again?" she asked herself as she fully woke up. "I really need to stop doing this. Sleeping on my face really doesn't help my complexion."

As she got up to go to her own bed to sleep, the light from the window began to dim. She looked out to see some clouds moving across the sky. "Well, at least I'm not the only one up so late. I wonder why they felt the need to move those this late?"

Even as she contemplated the mystery of the late working Pegasi, she started to realize that, even with the moon now fully obscured, there was a faint glow lighting the room. Looking over towards the source she gasped as she saw a faint glow of magic coming from her sister. "What in Equestria?" she exclaimed as she closely examined the magical stream.

No doubt about it now. The glow was flowing from Sweetie Belle's horn and branching off towards her friends on either side. The glow was faint, so faint that only the now pure dark of the room allowed her to see it, but it was there. "Oh Sweetie Belle what happened to you?" Rarity lamented. "But... If your magic is somehow connected to this, then perhaps my magic can get you out."

Not knowing what spell she would need, Rarity summoned a subtle glow of her own. Nothing specific, just a small mass that would allow her to meld her magic with her sister's. As she approached her sister's form and lowered her head she felt a pang of hesitation. Melding formless spells with an unknown flow could have disastrous results, but, as this was for her sister, the feeling was quickly banished and the melding began.

At first nothing happened, and Rarity felt a pang of disappointment. But then she felt something- not much at first, just a small tug. Then it got stronger - something reached for her, and then it grabbed her! A gasp escaped her as she felt a rush of overwhelming power enter her! And then...

**********

"Oh my stars, what was that?" Rarity asked herself as she looked over towards the bed. "Wait, how did I get over here?" Looking down, Rarity realized she had been flung across the room and was now laying in a pile of broken shelving and fabrics, and that she ached all over. "Ow, now that was most certainly uncalled for Sweetie Belle. What did you do though?" Thinking back on the melding she experienced, Rarity closed her eyes and concentrated. 'There was that tug, then the surging of power, and then...'

For the second time that night Rarity let a gasp escape her lips. The images, they were so intense! Flames rising into a blackened sky, an army that strode over everything in its path, and rising above it all... an imposing figure of the blackest night. Panting, she opened her eyes once again and realized she had broken out in a cold sweat. "Who was that?!" she pondered and she started to cross the room once more. "Oh Sweetie Belle, is she the one keeping you from me? Then I will just have to take you back!" She said these words as she lowered her horn to her sister's magic once more. This time, however she summoned a greater concentration of her own powers. "I will drive them from you little sister, and nothing they can do will stop me!"

Dedication of the Fallen

Ponyville was still wrapped the deep slumber of the night. It was that time when no sensible pony was up and about. But if one did happen to be awake, and if one was in the neighborhood of the Carousel Boutique, then they might see an occasional faint glow emanating from the upper story windows and hear the muffled THUMP and loud crash of breaking furniture that followed each glow.

"Ooohh, this is becoming most tiresome Sweetie Belle," Rarity moaned from her new position across the room. She had landed against a wardrobe, collapsing a sizable hole though its doors. "Why are you still sealed away from me? How can she still have a hold on you?"

Rarity, trying to see if she had gleaned any new information from her sister, turned her concentration inward. Ever since she had noticed that magical stream radiating from her catatonic sister into her equally catatonic friends laying alongside her, Rarity had been trying to interrupt the magic and hopefully free the young ones from their current state. Unfortunately, she had only accomplished bruising herself and breaking her furniture as she was repeatedly expelled from the stream. Each time she was expelled though, she brought a bit more of the vision back with her. It was a nightmare of the greatest proportions, showing flames rising high into a blackened sky and an army which consumed all before it. If she had a choice, Rarity would have banished the images from her mind as soon as she saw them. But she knew that they had something to do with her sister's current state, and she would do anything to get her sister back again.

The cold sweats returned, and the scenes came upon her once more: the flames, the hoard, and that figure rising above it all. Somehow Rarity knew that it was this figure that had ensnared her sister, and as she focused, a face slowly began to take shape. Finally it appeared to notice her presence, and turned to face her.

Rarity's eyes flew open and she gasped for breath as she returned her mind to the here and now. "HER! SHE did this to you Sweetie Belle! If this is true, then she will PAY!" A mad light began to envelop her sight as she realized the implications of the vision. "I will make her release you from her grasp and then I shall DESTROY HER!" The mad light dimmed slightly as she detached herself from her current perch in the wardrobe and slowly begin to plan her vengeance. "What to do? She's much more powerful and has far more resources than I do. So much so that approaching her, never mind even fighting her, would be difficult. If I even want to attempt such a thing, I will need to remove those advantages."

As she glanced outside, Rarity tried to formulate a plan which could work. She slowly discarded idea after idea as either to chancy, or too impractical too be carried out . Though that light never fully left her eyes, Rarity slowly began to succumb to her fatigue. 'I do suppose I should get some sleep now, planning just isn't a thing to do when one is tired. Oh my, I will likely have to visit Zecora for some of her special tea before... ZECORA! That's it!' A smile of twisted jubilation spread across Rarity's face as she remembered her acquaintance in the forest. 'That will do just lovely. Now all I have to do is find those leaves and then lure Her here.' Rarity looked towards her sister with a glare which would have had sleeping fillies trembling if they had been able to see it. "And then, I assure you, she will PAY."

***********

Later that day, Rainbow Dash was engaged in one of her favorite activities, lounging on a cloud and watching the activities of those below her. However, it just wasn't as relaxing as it normally was. For one, she wasn't lounging in the sun since as the cloud had been pulled into their cave late last night; and two, the activities below her were for prepping an army to go to war.

Looking down, she could see the forges on one side of the humongous cavern. They weren't all that large by themselves, but there were dozens of them built up along the wall and extending out onto the cave floor. Each one focused on a single piece of equipment at a time, though they had finally entered into full production mode with several mares and stallions continuously operating each one. Some of the smiths were busy making armor, from heavy plate to light chainmail. Others were focused on forging blades, from small sleek points to huge monstrous things she had never dreamed existed. Still others were busy crafting things she had never heard of. She had to only glance at her own wings to examine such a device - one which she found both cool and creepy.

Covering her wing's edge was a strip of metal. It was designed to fold along with her wings natural movements and was currently resting against her side. They were attached to her wings with a series of pins and clasps which were secured between her individual feathers and the entire contraption was secured to a harness which encircled her sides and looped around her front. There was a small point which extended just beyond her wing tip for a bit of extra range, and the entire thing was razor sharp. Rainbow Dash could feel it giving her some resistance when she flew, but she could also feel the extra protection the rigidity provided. All in all a weird idea, but it kind of made sense for a Pegasi like her. It's not like they would do much good for an Unicorn or Earth Pony!

Thinking of Earth Ponies... Rainbow Dash let her gaze wander over to the other side of the cavern and focused on the ponies over there. These ponies were not concerned with making anything, they were focused on learning how to use their new equipment. She saw several unicorns running drills to get used to their new chainmail armor. Others were busy dashing back and forth among mock bunkers; occasionally they would pop up and launch a blast of destructive magic or toss a small swarm of daggers at targets along the edge of the field. She saw some armor-wearing Pegasi zooming across the ceiling. They seemed to be in a contest which consisted of trying to stay behind the others and remain there for several seconds. The Night Guards called it Dog Fighting practice; what it had to do with dogs was a complete mystery to Rainbow Dash though. Other Pegasi had the blades over their own wings like Rainbow Dash and were busy practicing driving toward their own set of targets either on the ground or held in the air by other Pegasi. Some of the stronger, slower fliers were busy diving towards a different set of targets, pulling up at the last second, and dropping heavy sacks right in their midst. There were also Earth Ponies who had their own area and were busy getting a feel for their own armor and weapons. Their gear tended to be more heavy, like large blades, specialized boots, and heavy plate armor. It made them slower than the Pegasi or Unicorns, but boy could they do some serious damage!

As her eyes finally picked out her friends, she couldn't help but be impressed by their power. She could just make out Big Macintosh as he slowly moseyed on up to the bales of straw wrapped around wooden posts that they used as practice dummies. With one smooth motion he drew a sword a scabbard which ran down his entire side and with almost contemptible ease he swung his head around and cut his dummy cleanly in half! No other Earth Pony came close to matching his raw power - Rainbow Dash had overheard most of the Night Guards expressing their relief that the princess had successfully recruited him to their side! As she watched him move over to his next target and prepare his front hooves for their workout, she couldn't help but think of how a part of his strength seemed to come from the pain he still felt over his youngest sister. Since she had lived with them for the past week, she had ample time to see how he felt it was somehow his fault that Apple Bloom was currently catatonic at Rarity's place; that if he had only checked on them sooner, then the young fillies wouldn't have been exposed to the spell which put them in their current state. She had tried to get him
to dismiss this idea, but he couldn't seem to completely release the guilt he felt.

His other sister, on the other hoof, took the pain she felt and channeled it into a ferocious energy which no other pony could match. Rainbow Dash could make her out now as she continued to spar with her current set of unfortunate partners. There were several Night Guards and other assorted ponies who circled around her, wary about making the first move but seemingly determined to try and best the small pony in their midst. Applejack just glared at them as they approached, waited for her opening, and then sprang! Rainbow Dash still couldn't believe she was wearing armor, but Applejack made it look easy. She didn't have the bulk to wield a sword like Big Mac, but she didn't need to; all her power was in her back legs. Anypony who got in range of those was toast. Her first target learned this the hard way as she charged into his face and, without stopping, spun on her front legs and gave him a double buck shot right in the chest. If the poor soul hadn't been wearing his own armor Dash thought the blow would have actually punched through his chest, but as it was, the armor just dented with the impact and the opponent was thrown back several feet where he lay gasping for breath. The rest of her opponents didn't fare any better; one by one they too found themselves on their backs or sides gasping for air. The only exception was a Night Guard Unicorn who had tried to engage her with magic from long range. Applejack just dodged the magical blasts, reached into a pouch on her side, and used her legs to launch a pair of metal balls at the poor creature's head which knocked him cleanly into unconscious.

As the medics came up to examine the fallen for any serious injuries, Applejack slowly strode over to her gear to get a drink. As she started to chug the water from her canteen, Rainbow Dash let out a sigh of relief at the progress Applejack had made. After they had left the catatonic Crusaders with Rarity a week ago, the first thing Dash and Big Mac had done was to lock up all of the hard cider. Then they made sure that one of them was with Applejack at all times. Even as Applejack ranted and raved, they would not let her anywhere near the Cider storeroom, instead they worked hard to keep her mind occupied by other things. Still, Dash vastly preferred Applejack's ravings to the times when she just seemed to breakdown and cry; then all she could do was to hold her close and wait for the fit to pass. Now all of Applejack's energy seemed to be directed at the opponents she faced in sparring rings, with just enough left over to manage the farm.

A low growl of anger seemed to originate from Dash's throat as she thought of all the pain Applejack had been through. Dash knew it wasn't Applejack's fault about what happened to her sister, but just like Big Mac she refused to let the guilt go completely since she was the one who had told Luna to fire off the spell so quickly. Applejack thought that if they waited a bit longer then they could have discovered the crusaders before the spell had affected them. Rainbow Dash was almost sick of trying to tell the siblings that it wasn't their fault and that they shouldn't blame themselves.

As she was thinking about who really was to blame the cloud she was on shifted slightly. Rainbow Dash looked over her shoulder to see that a Night Guard Lieutenant had joined her on the cloud. "What do you want?" she threw over her shoulder at him.

"I was just curious why you are just loafing around here instead of training with us," was his reply.

"Look, we pulled this cloud in last night to supply fresh water for the cave, I'm just putting it to some good use. Besides, I can already fly rings around any other pony here, including you, so why should I be practicing?"

"To get used to timing you attacks and bring down your targets of course. I don't believe you have mastered those skills yet."

"What's it to you? I can hit my targets, and I don't plan on using these on any other pony anytime soon. So what's the rush?"

"The rush is that we never know when we will be called upon to use our skills. Being able to precisely hit our targets where ever we choose is a skill many that is very difficult to master but one which should be possible for you to accomplish."

"Look why the hell should I be worried if I can't hit another pony square across the throat like you. Look, why the hell should I be worried if I can't slice a pony's throat midflight like you claim you can do!? I don't want to have that skill! You know I'm not completely sold on the Princess' idea just yet. The first sign that she's doing this for her own gain and not for Equestria like she says, then I am going straight to Celestia and blowing this whole thing wide open."

"To answer your first question: think about it. If I can slice any vital point on my opponent, then I can hit them in any other place as well, including non-vital disabling points - like a tendon. As to your second point, the Princess has already commanded that that was completely your prerogative. If you wish to leave at any point then we have orders to not interfere and to let you go."

Rainbow Dash silently fumed at the Guard Pony as his points sunk home. She hadn't actually considered that first point, guess he had her there. As for the second point about their orders, that was the biggest thing stopping her from exposing this conspiracy. The trust and conviction that Princess Luna had placed in her seemed to indicate some sincerity in her cause.

"Now come on and assemble the rest of your armor," the Lieutenant said, breaking her thoughts, "we have a patrol to conduct."

"Huh? What's up?" Rainbow Dash questioned.

"We have reports that the Wonderbolts may be scouting the area soon. If they arrive before the Princess, then we will need our best fliers in the air to intercept, and discourage their interest."

"Ah feathers."

***********

Flying low over the mountains, Spitfire studied the terrain while mentally reviewing her mission orders. Even if she hadn't heard anything about dragons nesting in the area, Prince Blueblood's order to investigate was still an order. Glancing over her shoulder, she found the rest of her flight in a tight diamond formation awaiting instructions.

"Alright, you all have your sectors. Investigate any suspicious activity, and if you do find any signs of a dragon nesting, do not, I repeat, do not, engage it one on one. Send up a smoke flare and wait for reinforcements. Clear?" she called back.

"Clear ma'am," replied Rapidfire from her left.

A simple "Roger" came from Fleetfoot on her right.

Soarin' called up a cocky "Got it boss" from the rear.

"Good," she called back. " We meet back here in two hours if we don't find any signs of dragons. Wonderbolts, break!"

At her command, the flight split off into its individual members. 'Hopefully this will be a simple recon sweep with no excitement,' the Wonderbolt Captain thought to herself as her flight flew off to their assigned stations, 'a nice, simple, boring exercise.'

***********

High above, a flight of Night Guards, along with Rainbow Dash, observed the Wonderbolts' maneuvers. The Lieutenant almost looked over his shoulder as he addressed the flight. "Remember, stay high and in the sun. Do not give them a chance to see you. If possible, avoid engagement. If they decide to fly on by, let them. Any questions? No? Good. Rainbow, think you can handle Spitfire?"

Rainbow Dash was a little hesitant in answering, but she returned an "Uh, yeah. I can handle her."

"Good. You each have your targets." he called out as the flight below them split apart. "Alright, get to it ponies." And with that, they mirrored the break-up below as they quietly shadowed their targets.

************

'Feathers feathers feathers! How did I get stuck with Spitfire!?' Rainbow Dash cursed inside her mind. Not only was she shadowing a Wonderbolt, she was shadowing her personal hero and was expected to 'discourage' her interest in the area if she got to close to the cave. How was she supposed to do that?! She certainly couldn't attack her! But what else could she do? All she had were her wing blades. She now seriously regretted not training her accuracy earlier.

Rainbow Dash looked ahead to where Spitfire was headed and cursed. Not only was she shadowing her hero, but they were headed right for the Foundry's cave!

Before she realized what she was doing, she found was already maneuvering into an attack position. She threw herself out of alignment and riled against her own actions. 'No! Come on, this is Spitfire! No way can this be happening!'

Only it was. Spitfire continued to head straight for the cave, completely unaware of the potential danger which followed her overhead. 'Get a grip Dash, get a grip! She could still just fly right on by. Doesn't mean she's going to stop there. She could just fly right on by and never be the wiser. That's it just keep on flying. Almost there. Feathers! What did she see! It must have been something, or why else would she be turning back around!?' Spitfire was indeed making a long slow turn around the peak and seemed to be examining it more closely.

'OK Dash, THINK! I know! I can just swoop on down and say "Hi, how's it going? Fancy meeting you here." No, how would I explain the armor and the wing blades? Maybe I can distract her somehow? Drop something on another mountain. No, too far away, she wouldn't see or hear anything.' As continued to wrack her brains for a plan, she found she had maneuvered into an attack position once again, and was poised to dive at a second's notice.

Just when she feared her only choice would be to slice up a wing, she heard a voice from above, "Stand down Rainbow Dash. There is no need for you to concern yourself with this." Jerking her head up, she found Princess Luna hovering just overhead.

"When did you get here?"

"Just now. Come, let us go inside while your favorite Captain is on the other side of the peak. I still have time to prepare, and leave her unaware of our plans."

With one last glance to confirm Spitfire wouldn't see them rush into the cave entrance, Rainbow Dash followed the Princess into a dive and into the safety of the rocks. As they entered the cave, Rainbow Dash was surprised when she heard the princess muttering to somepony, "No, that is not how we do things anymore. Now be quiet."

**********

'Alright, this is definitely the mountain the prince mentioned.' Spitfire thought to herself. 'Now let's just see if I can find that cave. Ah, there it is.' she remarked as the hole in the mountainside came into view.

'The prince's report mentioned this as the most likely spot for a dragon nest. Time to see if he's right.'

Spitfire gently swooped down and landed in the shadow of a boulder near the cave's mouth. Hearing no noises associated with a dragon nest, she carefully entered the mountain and made her way deeper inside.

'Whoa, this place is massive!' She thought. 'I can see why a dragon would like this place. Plenty of room to move around, and they would probably like this heat too. But no sign of dragons fortunately. No sign of anything, actually. I just hope the rest of the flight is having similar luck.'

***********

Rainbow Dash could hardly believe it. Spitfire was less than ten feet away, but she couldn't see any of them! She glanced over toward the Princess, who was channeling a large amount of magic through her horn. Dash had to give Luna props for the illusion spell she was weaving. Not only was Spitfire unable to see the resistance, she was also unable to hear their hooves on the rock, and unable to detect the smell of iron and coal which permeated the cave. 'OK, I guess Luna was serious about trying to keep the bloodshed down, at least.'

As she watched Spitfire turn around and fly out of the cave, she slumped down, able to breathe again for the first time in what seemed like hours.

"I understand your relief in the gallant Captain's departure, Rainbow Dash. Now might I suggest you also relax your wings? Your blades are still at full extention." Luna commented as she allowed her magic to dissipate.

"Huh? Oh, right. Sure." Dash mumbled as she allowed her wings to relax and rest once again. "So what was this all about? She pretty much came directly here!"

"My nephew made a play against me, but we successfully foiled it," Luna answered. "He had me delayed in Canterlot for a considerable period, hoping to expose us, either by discovery, or by the Wonderbolts going missing. Although I must say that I am impressed with you. Would you have actually assaulted yonder Captain in order keep our secret hidden? Does this mean you have chosen to fully support me now?"

"I don't know what it means just yet," Rainbow Dash replied, "but I do know that I intend to keep this group honest and make sure it sticks to the goals you showed us." As she was talking, she saw Applejack and Big Mac in the crowd that had gathered to observe the potential intrusion. At her mention of keeping the group honest, Applejack just cocked her head to the side before she wandered back towards the training area, taking her brother with her.

"That is all I can ask for," Luna commented. "If that is the price for your support then I have no fear of ever losing it." Rainbow Dash hated the confident tone the princess said that in.

Then Luna cocked her head to the side and said, "Hello, what have we here?'

Following the princess' gaze, Rainbow Dash noticed a small green mist snake into the cave and make its way directly towards the princess. Once it reached Princess Luna, it coalesced into a scroll which opened before her. "Dragon mail? Now from whom could this be from?" As she read it, a small smile began to replace the curious expression on her face.

"So who is it from? Or am I going to have to guess?" Rainbow Dash prodded.

"Why, it is from your friend Rarity. It seems there is some important business we need to discuss, and she is inviting me to tea at my earliest opportunity."

"Oh, I don't like the sound of that. Do you think she found out about you blanking out her sister's brain?"

"Nonsense. There is no way for her to have found any connection between myself and her sister. Besides, you know very well that I did not blank out her brain. She will recover. Eventually."

"If you say so. But if I were you, I'd wait to drink until after Rarity does."

"This one is speaking the truth. I would heed her advice dear child."

Internally the princess answered, 'I thought I told you to keep silent.' While externally she said, "Duly noted, Rainbow Dash."

A Misplaced Rarity

A Misplaced Rarity

It was just after midday as Luna strode through the Royal Palace. Given the close call they had averted the day prior, she could not allow herself the luxury of sleeping today. There were appearances that had to be made, confidences that had to be maintained, and all manner of other royal obligations that needed doing. Having already accomplished all these tasks, Luna hoped to have a quick rest before her afternoon appointment. Overall, things had gone better than she had hoped, especially since she had been lucky enough to avoid...

"Aunt Luna, a moment of your time if you please?" A stallion, leaning on the corridor's mirrored walls, hailed her.

'Discord! Why does he have to be standing right there! Well, I guess we have been lucky enough to put him off this long.'

'Indeed child, he is becoming most bothersome. I still say you should let us teach him respect.'

'I thought I told you to not disturb me in public.'

She returned her attention outwards as she approached her caller, "Yes Blueblood, what can I do for you this day?" she greeted him with a small, false smile.

Returning with his own false smile, appearances must be maintained after all, her nephew looked up as she drew near. "I was just curious as to your reaction to some of the reports I have been hearing lately. Several master craftponies have disappeared, there is a sudden shortage of steel and iron in the markets, and several of your Night Guards have been seen in some rather remote locations. Have you any idea if these rather curious events are related?" There was just hint of accusation in his voice - almost unrecognizable, but it was there.

Keeping a short reign on her emotions, and making sure she did not look into the mirror behind him, she replied, "I am afraid I have no idea what these various happenings could mean. I have never really understood what drives some ponies to do what they do. As for my Night Guards, they are not always on duty and are at leave to roam wherever they wish during their free time. I am not some dictator who strictly controls her subject's movements."

A small smear of contempt seemed to edge its way into Blueblood's smile. "Oh really? Some on the council seem to believe otherwise."

A quick flash of rage crossed the Princess's face as she shoved her nose directly in front of his. "Now listen here you little insect, we know the only reason the council still distrusts us is due to the efforts of you and your intrusion. We suggest you back off lest you find yourself in harm's violent way." Pulling her head back and giving herself a little shake, Luna abruptly turned around and strode away. "Now I have preparations to make for this evening. Good day nephew."

As he watched his aunt walk away, Blueblood couldn't help the small shudder of joy that passed through him. 'By auntie that really worked! If I can just get her to do that somewhere public, she is as good as mine. And her eyes! Was I just imagining that? Oh this will be fun.' With thoughts of his assured victory, Prince Blueblood confidently strode in the direction of his chambers; he had some very interesting news to break.

*********

Luna nearly slammed the doors to her chamber as she stormed on through. Disregarding all else, she made her way towards a form draped in cloth. She magically jerked the covering away to reveal her full-length mirror. "What in the name of Equestria was that about? Are you trying to get us imprisoned again?"

"Hardly," Nightmare Moon answered her from within the confines of the reflection. "No one would believe him if he tried to make a claim against us right now. Not without some additional proof."

"We were lucky that no one else was in the passage at the time. But remember, Blueblood already has much circumstantial evidence against me. All he would need is one impartial witness to give credence to his claims and all would be lost."

A smile graced the reflection at Luna's words. "Fear not child. For, even if you do not yet admit it, know that you and I are the same, and to betray you would be to betray myself. So, until I am free once more, our secret shall remain."

This time it was Luna's face which was graced with a smile. "Good. But remember, you are never getting out again, so I am going to be holding you to your promise for all of eternity. Now please leave so I can prepare for my meeting this afternoon."

"You still plan on going?" The reflection asked with a note of chagrin, "Why, even your loyal pegasi warned you about the danger she can represent, so why risk it?"

"Because I need her," Luna replied with just a hint of anger in her voice, "You know I do. And I also wish to check up on the little ones; there should have been some progress by now. So just leave me."

"As you command child. However I will still be watching you." Nightmare Moon said as she faded with a chuckle.

"I thought I told you to stop calling me a child!" Luna lunged at the mirror before the reflection had fully cleared. Fuming at herself, she was just about to turn away when she was startled by what she was seeing. "Nightmare Moon? Are you truly gone?" She started to tremble when her question was only answered by silence. Once again, she faced nothing but her own reflection. 'My eyes! But how is this possible!? I have her under control, so why is this happening?' Although slight, Luna could see the subtle change of her eyes: the pupils had started to elongate into a predator-like slit, and the change appeared to be growing!

Luna closed her eyes, took deep breaths, and thought of her sister to try to calm herself. 'I will not put her through that again! I will not make her choose between her heart and the kingdom a second time. Is that not the point of this whole endeavor, to protect her and save this kingdom?' Feeling a small measure of peace settle over her, Luna opened her eyes and faced herself once more. Her pupils had, thankfully, assumed their natural shape again and appeared to be stable.

Turning away from the mirror, Luna made her way towards her personal balcony and threw open the doors. 'No nap for me now, I guess,' she thought to herself as she took to the skies and glided on the thermals. 'I need to calm myself before my meeting. Remember, this is for Equestria.'

'So why can I not trust my sister?'

**********

Rarity hummed to herself as she straightened up her shop. She had finished all of her orders earlier in the day, and had taken the rare liberty of closing the shop early. Anyone looking in would have assumed the fashionista was being her usually tidy self, preparing to welcome a very important guest. "One must always be presentable," the unicorn said to the open air, "And when royalty is concerned, especially so. Even if it is her!" A very hard edge crept into Rarity's voice on that final word and her face twisted in anger, but she quickly smoothed her features and took a deep breath. "She will have a chance to explain herself and then her price will be extracted, but not before."

Rarity, having finished detailing her displays, was waiting for her tea kettle to come to a boil when she heard a knock on her front door. Glancing through a window at her visitor, Rarity took a deep, calming breath as she magically undid the lock on her door. 'Remember, nothing is amiss yet. Wait until the proper time,' she repeated to herself. Once the door was open she loudly exclaimed, "Princess Luna! Thank you so much for accepting my invitation. Please, do come in."

As the Princess of the Night entered her boutique, Rarity glanced outside and noticed an unusual absence. "Highness? Have your guards already left? I was going to prepare some additional treats for them if they were still around."

Luna pretended to be studying the shop's merchandise to hide the trace of guilt that flashed across her face. "Well, yes. You see, I did not bring them with me this evening. I know they mean well, but their constant presence can become a trifle smothering at times, particularly when it is something as simple as a get together for tea." While internally she added, 'Especially when I need to calm myself beforehoof, and bury my demons down further.'

'Not down far enough apparently my foolish child.'

'SILENCE!'

Unaware of the internal argument in the room, Rarity smiled to herself as one foreseen obstacle had failed to materialize. "Why thank you for that vote of confidence, your Highness. Oh, I do believe I hear the kettle calling. Would you care to join me in the kitchen?" Rarity asked as the kettle started to whistle.

"Yes, I will be along shortly." Luna replied as she continued to browse through the shop.

Rarity had just finished setting the table when the Princess made her way over to it. "I must say I am impressed, Rarity. Very few places in Canterlot can equal the quality I see in here."

Rarity bowed her head low as she accepted the praise, "Well I do pride myself on being on the cutting edge of fashion. Why, I have had patronage from Photo Finish, Hoity Toity, and Sapphire Shores, just to name a few. I like to think eventually all of Equestria might someday have a design or two of mine somewhere in their wardrobe. Now, would you care for anything to go with your tea? Cream or sugar perhaps?" This last bit was asked as Rarity started to pour the tea into their respective cups.

"No thank you," Luna replied as she studied the lightly colored tea. "I do not believe I am familiar with this type of tea."

Detecting a bit of apprehension in the Princess's voice, Rarity answered, "Why it is a purely local delicacy, courtesy of our resident botanist Zecora. You do know Zecora, don't you?"

"Yes, I do know her," Luna replied, thinking of her last visit into the Everfree Forest.

"Well, since she actually lives in the forest, she knows a great deal about the various plants that grow in it. I occasionally visit her for some tea leaves and other such items when I feel the need to pamper an out-of-town guest." Rarity carried on while studying the Princess, who had yet to actually sample the tea. "You can trust me when I say that this tea really is quite soothing," Rarity said as she levitated her own cup and took a dainty little sip from her cup.

Remembering the advice from her followers, Luna now felt it was safe to try the tea herself and took her own dainty sip. "Um, yes this is a very interesting blend. I may have to ask Zecora myself for some of this the next time I see her."

"Of course, your Highness. I am sure she would be delighted to assist you. Now as I was saying, I have already made a sizable impression in Canterlot and hope to make an even larger impact on fashion all across Equestria. I am sure I would have succeeded already with some of the dresses I made for the last Grand Galloping Gala; they would have been the talk of the city if I do say so myself. But then there just had to be that riot and... all those animals running rampant. I dare say that they could talk of nothing else for the rest of the week!" Rarity lamented, thinking back on the wasted opportunity.

"Yes, I did hear it was quite the commotion. I was sorry I missed it, but I was still acquainting myself with the modern customs."

"Well, I am sure you will be just extravagant at the next Gala. OH, idea! Since you are here, I could design a dress for you to wear! It would be something elegant and refined, but still simple and bold... just like the night. What do you say?"

Taking another drink from her cup, Luna thought it over. "I say that it would be a travesty to not, at least, consider it."

'I told you to be careful child! Something is not right here. Some....thing....is....defiantly....not....right....'

'Nightmare? Are you still there?' Luna quietly cocked her head to the side while she listened for a mental reply. Upon hearing nothing, the first honest smile in months graced her lips. "In fact, Rarity, I think it sounds like an excellent idea."

"Oh how marvelous! I have some ideas already! Tell me what you think of this..." And with that, she was off. Rarity maintained a constant stream of chatter, continuously coming up with different ideas and design themes to run by the Princess, with the occasional sidetrack into the latest news or gossip from around Equestria.

'By Discord, this pony sure can talk,' Luna thought to herself some hours and several cups of tea later. 'All this time and she has yet to repeat any subject even once. I know of a few socialites who would be humbled by her.' Rarity was comparing which gemstones might go best with her eyes and starry mane when Luna felt a subtle pull in her magic. While not complete telepathy, she and her sister still had the ability to convey general feelings towards each other when the need arose. Feeling her sister reaching for her now, Luna signaled her alertness towards Celestia.

'Yes sister? What is it?'

In return she received a feeling of confusion and expectation.

Luna replied with her own confusion, which was answered again with a feeling of expectation joined with a feeling of tiredness.

Glancing at a clock Rarity had on the wall, Luna realized the time, and sent out feelings of surprise and lamentation, which Celestia answered with understanding and amusement, coupled with expectation.

"Princess Luna? Is something wrong?" Rarity asked, realizing the faraway look on Luna's face.

"No, nothing is wrong. My sister was just reminding me that I am tardy in carrying out my duties. Is there a place where I might be able to see the eastern sky?"

"Oh! Please forgive me, I have taken up too much of your time. Here, I have just the place," Rarity said as she left the table and started to climb the stairs to her second floor. "Now, I don't normally let just any pony up here, but seeing as how you are royalty, I think I can make an exception. Ah, here we are." Rarity said as she open the door to her personal room.

Glancing around the room, Luna quickly noticed the three small fillies lying in a large bed. Rarity kept a close watch over Luna's face as she crossed the room. "My little sister and her friends. They suddenly collapsed some time ago, and have yet to awaken. You haven't heard about anything like this, have you?"

"No, I am afraid I have not. I will look them over after I finishing raising the moon if you wish," Luna said while trying to keep her face impassive.

"I would appreciate that." Rarity replied, inwardly seething. "Now, I believe this window here would be perfect."

Looking out of the indicated window, Luna had to agree. She had a clear view of the eastern sky, along with a view of the Everfree Forest in the distance. "Yes, this will do just fine," she vocalized while sending feelings of preparedness towards her sister and gathering her magic.

Upon receiving a reply of equal feelings from her sister, Luna reached her magic towards the heavens and began to pull the moon from under the horizon. Some nights it felt like the moon was eager to take its place in the sky, while others it felt tired and cranky, as though asking for just a few more minutes before it had to appear. Luna realized that tonight was going to be one of the latter as she poured forth more and more of her magic to try to draw the moon out. Soon, she realized something peculiar about this night: she was getting tired. No, not just tired, but exhausted! Once she had finished pulling the moon out from under the horizon, she had just enough energy to illuminate the stars before she nearly collapsed from the strain she was under.

As Luna gathered what little strength she had left, she heard a voice behind her, "I am surprised you are still on your hooves, but we can't have that now, can we? Nighty night." Then she felt a sharp blow to the back of her head. As she faded into unconsciousness, she remembered the last words she had heard from Nightmare Moon: 'Something...is...not....right....'

As Rarity looked down at the unconscious form, she magically tossed aside the dowel she had used to strike the princess. While walking to her night stand, she levitated a small vial from one of its drawers, uncorked it while it traveled to her, and drank its contents. Cringing at the bitter taste, Rarity glanced once more at the now-sleeping Princess before she turned towards Sweetie Belle and brushed her sister's mane aside, "Soon, little sister, soon."

***********

"Ugh, Sister? I thought we agreed, no more wild toasts at those parties..." Luna groaned as she struggled towards consciousness. She would have liked to have held her head in her hooves, but when she tried, she found that none of her legs were responding. That helped to jerk her the rest of the way to wakefulness as she studied her surroundings. She found herself suspended upside down several feet in the air, restrained by several reams of cloth wound tightly around her. This cloth cocoon was wound so tightly around the princess that it made breathing difficult, and movement almost impossible. As she started to gather her magic to try to at least loosen the cloth, she realized that she could not form a solid grip on her bindings. Worse, her attempt started a new round of headaches, bringing on a fresh groan.

"Finally awake, I see." A voice drifted out of the darkened room. Trying to find the source of the voice, Luna raised her head and scanned the room in earnest. She could see nothing at first, but then a faint light started to shine. She could now make out the candle sitting on a bedside table, and it illuminated... Rarity. The Unicorn was angled in such a way that, while her attention was fully on the fillies in the bed, she was still able to watch Luna out of the corner of her eye.

Luna, trying to get past the foul taste in her mouth, was just able to croak out, "What,...what did you...do....to me?"

"A simple toxin from the Everfree Forest. I did not lie when I said I got this from Zecora; she did show us the plant, after all. Though it was rather difficult for me to find all by my lonesome. This one actually weakens a pony's specific trait: Earth Ponies become physically weakened, Unicorns are unable to sustain their magic, and Pegasi are unable to maintain their balance for flight. Being an Alicorn, with traits from all three, I imagine the effects have hit you rather hard?"

"The....tea? But I....don't....understand, you drank....the same tea....as I did....correct?"

"Oh yes, that is certainly true. However, as with every kind of toxin there is an antitoxin. I took some of that myself before you arrived, several times when I had to excuse myself from your presence, and just after your collapse. Believe me when I say that I have no lasting effects from it. You, however, still seem to be having a rough time of it."

To this statement, Luna could do nothing but acknowledge the truth. Her magic was conspicuously still absent, her legs had no strength in them, and so much as trying to lift her head filled her with a terrible sense of vertigo. "Why?"

"Why?" Rarity repeated as she rose and started to make her way on over towards Luna. "That's not even funny coming from you! You know why!" Grabbing Luna's face in her hoof, Rarity lifted it up towards her. "I want my sister back you bitch! I know you have something to do with her condition, and you are going to help me fix her!"

"What are....you talking....abou.." SLAP! The rest of the question was silenced as Rarity backhoofed her across the face!

"Do not play dumb with me princess. I know what I saw, and nothing you say is going to make me forget that."

"What did you....see then?" Luna gasped while still trying to clear her vision from the vertigo and the blow.

"It is quite simple, actually," Rarity commented as she made her way back towards the bed side. Extending out her magic slightly, she snuffed the candle and plunged the room into total darkness. Or near-total darkness, Luna corrected herself; as her eyes adjusted, she could see a very faint magical glow emanating from the Unicorn of the trio and then splitting to the other two. "I found this out myself the night before last. I had fallen asleep next to the bed, and, when I awoke, I noticed this magic stream in the darkness. I thought it might have something to do with Sweetie Belle's condition, so I tried to break it and wake my sister up."

"Sounds....dangerous."

"You have no idea. The results were, shall we say, rather volatile. I was forcefully thrown across the room and knocked out for a few moments. However, when I awoke, I realized that I had taken a small piece of a vision with me. It was very fragmented and incomprehensible, but I was able to see a figure in it. Somepony utterly terrifying. Somehow, I knew that she had something to do with their condition, so I went back in again. Yes, yes, you don't have to say it, I know that it was a foolish thing to do. But she is my sister, what else could I do? I went back into the stream several times in fact - each time as volatile as the first... I ruined quite a lot of my furniture that night. But, eventually, I was able to make out the identity of that pony. It was you! Or rather, the you we had hoped to never see again Princess Luna, or should I say Nightmare Moon!" This last bit was thrown out with such anger and contempt that Luna could only bow her head in guilt. "You are not denying this are you?"

"Yes....Nightmare Moon....still....exists,....but only....deep within me. She will never....roam Equestria.... again," Luna declared, struggling with her words.

"Then what in the name of Celestia is she doing inside of my sister's mind!?" Rarity raved as she relit the candle with her magic. "How did she get in there!?"

"If you....give me....a chance....I will....tell you."

"I am compelled, no doubt by my generosity, to allow you to do so. Do not waste it."

"It started....with my last....trip to see....Zecora," Luna began. Over the course of the next hour, she told Rarity everything. The story was pained, as Luna was still reeling from the effects of the toxin. But, as time wore on her ability to speak gradually improved. Throughout the tale Rarity's expression seemed to run the entire range of emotions: from disbelief to doubtful to anger, but mostly anger.

"You mean to tell me you knew what happened to Twilight but did not even tell us? Why?!" Rarity screamed in her face when Luna had gotten to that point.

"Because it wouldn't have helped you, and it could only have hurt us," Luna replied evenly.

"Us?" Rarity exclaimed as she, in a fit of fury, magically grabbed a large pair of scissors and smacked them against Luna's horn. "And just who is 'us' exactly?"

Luna cried out at the pain. She was grateful that most of the vertigo had passed by now, or else she might have passed out and been at the mercy of the Unicorn's rage. From there she proceeded to tell Rarity about how her forces had been amassed and that two of her best friends were preparing to fight this cause.

"Applejack and Rainbow Dash?" In her shock, Rarity had dropped the scissors and made her way back to her bed. She seemed to be taking this news nearly as bad as she had the news about Twilight Sparkle's fate. "But why would they decide to help you, after what you did to these poor fillies here?!"

"Because they know it is the only way to save Equestria... and protect my sister."

"Oh really? Can you prove what you're saying isn't just some yarn spun by a desperate, manipulative pony?"

"Because," Luna replied as she slumped in her restraints, "Nightmare Moon has been awake for the last fifteen minutes, and has been ranting at me to silence you for just as long." As Luna said this, the large pair of scissors sprung from the floor towards Rarity's face; it embedded itself in the wall a scant six inches from Rarity's head. It had happened so fast that she hadn't even had time to react.

Without even glancing at the wall, or the still-vibrating scissors, Rarity sighed, "I guess I will just have to take your word on that one. But now, how do you intend to help my sister? Surely you know that that is the only way I would even consider taking what you say as truth."

"At the time, I had not considered the possibility of my spell being fragmented by your sister's power. She must have tried to throw up a barrier at the last instant before she was overwhelmed. With this knowledge, I should be able to guide the spell to completion and let them awaken from its grasp."

Rarity pondered her options; it was obvious that Luna's abilities had started to return, but it was also clear that she remained severely weakened. They should both still be on approximately equal footing, but Luna had to be stiff from being unable to move for so long. She should have the edge in a fight if Luna attacked her, and, if that display with the scissors was any indication, Luna wouldn't go for a mortal blow. But most importantly, this might be the best chance she had to save her sister.

While Rarity went about magically untying the knot keeping Luna suspended, she kept her gaze locked on Luna's, "Very well, you have one chance to get this done. Once again, I suggest you do not waste it. Also: I wish to be included in your spell. I want to see the complete vision for myself. Besides, I want to make sure you leave nothing... unwanted... in my sister." As the last knot was untied, Luna dropped face-first on the floor, laying there for a few moments as she worked her way through the latest bout of headaches.

Eventually, a magical tug from Rarity pulled Luna upright and dragged her over towards to bed with the fillies. " Come along now - I am not so foolish as to let you gather any more magic than is absolutely necessary, lest you try to strike me with something else. Let us get this done."

"Of course," Luna commented as she was pulled over to the bed.

'Such insolence! You should have let me skewer her while we had the chance! I can still chastise her if you will just let me!' Nightmare Moon screamed from within her own mind.

'No. I told you that you will never be free again as long as I have a say in it. Now be quiet and let me work,' Luna shot back.

'Humph, you are obviously serious about your new found pacifism,' Nightmare Moon relented.

Now sitting alongside the bed, Luna began to gather her magic to probe the minds of the three young fillies once again. Looking across the bed at Rarity, she gave a simple nod and let her magic reach out and incorporate Rarity into the spell. 'Now comes the delicate part,' Luna thought.

'Indeed,' she heard Rarity answer from within the magic, 'this is where things got rather volatile.'

'Quite,' Luna thought, surprised at the strength of her connection with Rarity. Turning her full attention unto the unconscious Fillies before her, she let the spell envelope all three of the fillies this time.

'Remarkable,' Luna thought as she delved deeper into the minds of the three, 'your sister actually managed to successfully shield each of them from different segments of the spell, rendering it incomplete. It is unfortunate the end result left them like this, but it is truly remarkable what she was able to accomplish.'

'Yes, the desire to protect your friends can lend you astonishing power,' Rarity thought, gazing intently at her sister, 'You will be able to help them though, won't you?'

'Yes,' Luna replied, 'there is enough of the spell left over that I shall be able to reconstruct it without even having to recast it. It will take but a moment.' By the time Luna had finished her explanation, she had already realigned the fragments and was preparing to work the trio through the spell once again.

'Ah,' Rarity moaned as she viewed the images rolling past, 'do they really need to see all of this?'

'Yes,' Luna replied, 'this is the memory that convinced your friends that I was speaking the truth. Just remember: once the spell begins, it cannot be stopped.'

'Very well,' Rarity shot back. 'Are you finished yet?'

'Yes,' Luna thought puzzlingly, 'in fact it should have been finished before now. I wonder what the problem is... NO!'

'Oh but YES my child! I shall be free once more!'

'No I shall not allow it!' Luna screamed from within her magic as she felt another consciousness flowing into the magical stream.

'I am afraid you no longer have a say in the matter, my child!' And with that, once more, a small explosion shook the confines of Rarity's bedroom.

********

"Oh, again Sweetie Belle?" Rarity moaned from her new perch across the room. "How many times does this make it?"

"The last time," she heard in response. But it was strange, the voice sounded distorted and in triplicate. Realizing the origin of the strange voices, Rarity fixed her gaze across the room, but could only stare in shock at what she saw. There was her Sweetie Belle facing her from across the room, standing in front of a now open window. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom had joined Sweetie Belle, standing on either side of her, but the trio was leering at Rarity with twisted smiles, as though they were enjoying the look of horror on her face. And the eyes! Oh, by Celestia the eyes! She could see all three sets clearly! All of their pupils had elongated into dragon eyes and had turned a turquoise color. They were HER eyes! "Farewell, dear sister," they all chimed together as they leapt from the window.

Rarity was just about to give chase when she heard a weak, voice call out, "No. We have to stop her. We cannot allow her to..." Turning to confront this new voice, Rarity was shocked to discover Princess Luna at her side. But it was not the same Princess that was here just a second ago. This Luna had a normal mane and tail, and she was no larger than a regular pony! In fact, she looked much like she did just after being cleansed of Nightmare Moon! With a pleading look in her eyes, the now-debilitated Luna repeated, "Go. Stop her."

Dragging herself over towards her window, Rarity looked out and hung her head in defeat. "It is too late. They are already at the edge of the forest. SWEETIE BELLE! PLEASE! COME BACK!" Rarity screamed out in a last ditch effort to save her sister.

While back in the room, Luna just slumped to the floor in the pool of her previous fabric prison and started to sob, "Oh Big Sister! Oh Celestia, what have I done?!"

Return of the Outcast

"I am telling you this is a golden opportunity. She is weakened and vulnerable; if we act now, then she will be ours!"

"And I am telling you, young lord, that it is still too soon. The piece is not yet stabilized and would be useless to us in combat."

Prince Blueblood tried to keep the vexation off of his face while he contemplated the sweet-sounding voice's words. After an appropriate period of silence, he addressed his empty chambers once more, "That does not matter; using it in combat has always been a last resort. And with the way my Aunt has been acting these past few days, it has become increasingly unlikely we will need it."

"But still..."

"But nothing," Blueblood interrupted, "we never truly needed its skills anyways. All I strictly need is the pretext its presence afforded me. If we deploy it now, our victory will be assured."

Just when Blueblood started to think he might have overreached himself on his ally's pride, he heard a soft sigh from the empty air. "Ah, it is as you say. So be it -- the preparations will begin immediately. Be warned, it will still require a day, at least, before it is dispatched."

Blueblood was positively beaming, "EXCELLENT! I shall have my part ready as well. Soon we shall both have our desires."

**************

'Faster,' Rainbow Dash thought as she streaked over the tree tops. 'Must...fly...faster.'

Glancing over her shoulder, she eyed the remaining members of the Night Guard flight following her. While some seemed to be having trouble matching her speed, the others were able to hold their positions several yards back.

'Come on!' She begged her wings as she faced forwards once more and flapped even harder. 'I can't let them beat me!'

Finally, she could see the edge of the Everfree Forest come in to view and realized that maybe, just maybe, she would make it in time after all.

"FLUTTERSHY!"

**************

Humming a tuneless melody, Fluttershy was enjoying herself in one of her favorite activities, rising with the sun and caring for her various animal friends.

"Hello girls," she quietly spoke upon entering her chickens coop, "and how are we doing today?" In response, the chickens crowded around her and began clucking loudly. "Yes, yes, I know you're hungry. Just give mama time to clean out the coop and I'll fill up the feeder with lots of fresh corn. How does that sound?" As she gave action to her words, her thoughts slowly began to wander, and she soon found herself thinking about her friends.

'It seems like forever since I've even seen them. First Twilight disappears and Pinkie is determined to find her in the forest. Then Applejack inherits the family business which Rainbow Dash seems to be helping with ever since the Crusaders collapsed. Now even Rarity has become hard to find as she is hardly ever in her shop anymore. I do hope we can get together again soon. I really do miss them.'

As she finished cleaning out the chicken house, she paused to listen to a noise on the breeze. "Howls? But it isn't time for any Zap Apple harvest, at least I don't think it is."

But Fluttershy was given no time to think; a maddened pack of Timberwolves bounded out from the Everfree forest. Worse still, they were now running... straight towards her! A whole pack of them just materialized from the Everfree's edge and she was so paralyzed with fear that she can only watch as them rush towards her with a menacing look in their eyes.

Just when they reached the edge of her property and are nearly on top of her, she heard a shout ring out, "FLUTTERSHY!"

WHAM!

Suddenly Rainbow Dash is there, wearing some form of gray armor, slammed into the pack leader and tumbled him to the ground. As the cyan pegasus springs back to her hooves, other pegasi wearing the same style of armor slam into the remaining wolves and coming to stand between Fluttershy and them.

"Hold them! Hold them back!" Dash calls out to the others, "don't let them near any of the animals!" Glancing over her shoulder she shouts back, "Fluttershy! Don't just stand there! Get yourself off the ground!"

Fluttershy is just able to let out a small "eep" as she launches herself into the air and hovers over the scene. Once she saw her friend airborne, Rainbow Dash faced forward again and gave the pack leader the biggest glare she could muster and flexed her wings menacingly, "Alright big boy, if you still want to tussle, let's go. You'd better be ready though, we ain't no pushovers."

A few of the pack members seemed to hesitate at the appearance of the unexpected reinforcements. They glanced nervously at the gray armor and sharp blades attached to each pegasus wing, but a sudden growl from the pack leader seemed to stiffen their resolve and they all crouched low, ready to spring.

"OK," Dash replies noting the new posture, "let's do this!" She shouts out as both sides lunge towards each other.

***************

"Where did I go wrong?" Luna lamented to herself, "When did it turn so wrong?"

As the afternoon sun slowly made its way across the sky, Luna laid curled up on her bed, replaying the past few months over and over again in her mind. She could trace every step, see every decision clearly, even recall her exact thoughts with each pivotal move, and she still could not pin point the moment when she had lost control. Obviously, the loss of Twilight Sparkle was undesired, but she had compensated and was well underway to gathering the remaining element wielders to her side. Even if the thought of Rarity still made her head hurt, it seemed but a price to pay.

But now all that work was ruined - destroyed by her own momentary weakness. Nightmare Moon was loose once more, using the bodies of three young fillies that Luna herself had incapacitated. Crushed, Luna had locked herself in her chambers within the castle, telling her concerned staff only that she wished to not be disturbed by anypony, and that Celestia needed to resume control of the moon once more.

"Some Princess I've turned out to be. Too fearful to admit my mistakes to my sister, and too weak to correct them myself."

Gradually, Luna became aware of a glow which permeated her room. It pulsed and flickered in an-eye catching display, drawing her eyes to the viewing orbs mounted on the wall. "Again? Why can they not understand I wish to be left to myself?" she sighed as she rolled away from the light. "No matter; it will pass just as it always does."

This time, however, she was proven wrong. The viewing orb had continued to blink for the last several minutes, and the light was starting to give her a headache. With a soft sigh, Luna levitated the orb from its resting place and placed it on the bed in front of her. "What is it?" she moaned, "What do you want?"

"Well finally! I was beginnin' to think this here ball was busted," The face said before it had finished forming.

"Applejack?" Luna asked surprised, "How did you get a hold of the Lieutenant's orb?"

"Well that's easy, he done gave it to me. Said something about maybe me being able to buck some sense back into you." Applejack offered up with a small grin.

"Did he now? I think I shall have to reprimand him for this."

"Well, I don't think he's too worried about that, since you'd have to get off of your flank to do it. Now how 'bout you try explainin' to me what in tarnation you think you're doin' just moping around like this?"

Luna turned her head away from the orb. "Is it not obvious? I am contemplating my errors and my boundless failure. I do not know of any other way to have betrayed my trusts so thoroughly."

"Oh Cider Spit," Applejack instantly shot back, "I know of a perfectly good way to be doin' that, just stay right there feelin' sorry for yerself!"

"What could you expect of me Applejack? I lost. How do you expect me to prevail now that Nightmare Moon is loose again?"

"Is that what's got your tail all bunched up? Listen here, this war is going to go down no matter what happens to you, so I suggest you get your kester in gear and get on down here and help!"

"It is of no use Applejack. I could not resist her a thousand years ago, so what makes you think I could resist her now?"

"Because this time you got yourself some friends!" Applejack shouted through the orb, "I swear, if you were in front of me right now I'd buck you so hard that that sorta thinking would be knocked clean out of your head!"

"But, I..."

"But nothin'. Luna Nos Custodit, remember? You watch over us, or have you forgotten?"

"No, I..."Luna tried to say.

"Well then get yourself on over to Fluttershy's cottage and pronto! Some of your soldiers are down and could use the help."

Upon hearing of the state of her warriors, Luna found herself shocked into motion towards her balconies door. Her shame grew as she thought of how she had disgraced her soldiers, but a new sense of pride began to grow as well. "What happened to them?" She asked as she unlatched the doorway and sampled the afternoon winds.

Applejack cracked a dry smile when she saw that the princess was finally moving. "It seems somepony is marshaling forces inside the Everfree Forest and made a move against Fluttershy. Now I don't suppose you have any ideas on who this could be do you?"

*************

As Luna descended, the evening sun illuminated some very interesting scenery. One side of Fluttershy's yard was torn and gouged from a confrontation that had taken place. She could also make out the remains of some chicken wire and a wooden building, which had some odd sticks pocking out, but other than that the damage was remarkably well contained. Her warriors had been able to keep their foes at bay and saved the rest of the property from harm. These thoughts called back to her a small amount of her lost pride, and brought a faint smile to her face.

As she landed in front of the door and knocked, Luna could not help but remember the last time she had visited here. She hoped it would be a better reception this time. When she saw not a pale golden coat, but a rainbow colored mane instead as the door was opened, it seemed her hope was answered.

"Ha, it's about time you got yourself out here," Rainbow Dash said as she let the princess into the cottage, "I was beginning to think you had chickened out on us."

"I am sorry to have worried you," Luna apologized as she passed by. "Now, I have heard that some of my warriors were injured, and I would like to see them?" Looking around the interior of the cottage she could see her forces now. The other members of Rainbow's flight were scattered around the room, bandaged and resting with their injuries, while Fluttershy was busy going back and forth between them and tending to them. Upon seeing their princess enter though, they all came upright at their best speed.

"Majesty," the Night Guard Lieutenant said while giving a strained bow, "you honor us with your presence."

"No," Luna returned with a nod, "it is your actions which have brought honor to us all. Please, rest yourselves, and tell me what happened." Even as the other members of the flight resumed their places on the floor, Luna could see that the
Lieutenant planned to stay standing.

"We have been conducting patrols through the Everfree Forest trying to find Nightmare Moon's location ever since we heard of her escape. Over the last several days we began to notice the tracks of various forest creatures outside of their normal territories. We believe that Nightmare Moon has been gathering a large number of them under her control and will attempt to use them as her main attack force. On our most recent patrol, we came across the trail of a Timberwolf pack traveling at hurried pace, and upon following the trail we determined that they were headed here, to Ms. Fluttershy's cottage. At this point we did not bother with any further caution and made our way here at top speed. We intercepted the pack just before they were able to harm Ms. Fluttershy. The results are what you see here. In exchange for our injuries we routed them and drove them back into the Everfree Forest. The remains of the pack leader and several others are contained within the collapsed chicken coop outside and the remaining members fled. End of report Majesty."

"A well-detailed report as always, Lieutenant. Now let yourself get some rest, or I shall have to order you to," Luna said as she noticed the strain her Guardpony was exhibiting in order to remain upright.

With a final, "Majesty," as he returned to the floor, Fluttershy came around and hesitantly approached the Princess.

"Oh yes, they were all so brave and gallant. Why, I don't think any of them would have been seriously hurt if they hadn't been protecting the other animals. I am, um, really sorry about that." Fluttershy said as her voice slowly faded in an apology.

"Do not worry Fluttershy, it is what they expect of themselves and each other."

"What the hay," Rainbow Dash grumbled from her place by the door, "you make it sound like we could have died for all you care."

"On the contrary Rainbow Dash. I would have been most displeased if any of my subjects had perished. Here, they did their jobs as they were trained and are to be praised for their success. Tell me though, when do we expect to be able to provide reinforcements to this area?"

Turning her head up at the question and hearing the sound of many hooves running up towards the cottage, Rainbow Dash simply replied, "Oh, right about now I guess," as she opened the door to admit some more of their friends.

"Oh Fluttershy, darling, you are not hurt, are you?" Rarity exclaimed as she burst in and began looking her friend over.

"Oh no, I'm fine Rarity. It was the Night Guards who got hurt trying to protect me."

"See there? I told ya all she was fine. It would take a lot more than some puffed up puppies in order to break through Dash's group," Applejack threw out as she entered the room. "Well howdy there," she nodded to Luna, "I wasn't sure if ya was gonna beat us here."

"And greetings to you as well Applejack. I decided that haste was required to attend to my Guards and congratulate them on a job well done."

Fluttershy looked back and forth between the grayish armor that adorned her friends. " Um, Applejack? It's great to see you, all of you again, but... um...why are you and Rarity wearing that armor? I know that Rainbow Dash said that she was hanging out with the Night Guards, so she would have some... but what about you?"

"Well darling, I will admit that it does absolutely nothing in the way of fashion," Rarity replied as she glanced over her armor, "but sometimes function simply leaves no room for style, if you know what I mean. Even if we would rather never have to associate ourselves with the group it represents."

"Now see here Rarity," Applejack cut in, "I thought we had agreed to forgive the Princess for this. It was more my fault then anyponies."

"Why yes Applejack dear, we did agree to forgive her," Rarity replied with a slightly upturned snout, "I never said I would forget though. However, I will admit that the current problem is not completely her fault."

"Well thank Celestia for small favors I guess." Applejack shot back as she felt her ire starting to rise.

"Um, girls?" Fluttershy asked as she hesitantly trotted between her two friends. "I don't mean be rude... but what is going on with the forest and the Princess? I know I heard the nice Lieutenant over there say something about Nightmare Moon, but Luna is right here, so how could she be free?"

"Ya mean Rainbow Dash didn't tell ya yet?" Applejack asked as she looked over towards the other Pegasus by the door.

"The opportunity hasn't really came up for me to tell her yet. How do you think she would have handled hearing that the Queen of Darkness herself sent out a personal hit squad?"

"Then allow me to be the one to tell her," Luna said as she approached Fluttershy. "It is my story, and I have the most effective means of communicating it after all." And with that declaration, Luna's horn began to emit a faint glow.

"Whoa there!" Rainbow Dash yelled as she jumped in between the princess and her friend. "Are you sure that's really necessary? This is Fluttershy for crying out loud!"

"Do not fear Rainbow Dash," Luna softly replied as she locked her gaze with Dash's, "I have no intention of overwhelming her, but there are some things she will need to see."

Rainbow Dash held the princess's gaze until she heard Fluttershy behind her softly ask, "Um, what would I be seeing exactly?"

"Truth," Luna said as she released her magic and let her glow fill the room. Once the glare had faded, Rainbow Dash could see Fluttershy's eye's start to cloud over and moved to catch her as she slumped to the floor.

"I still don't like this," Dash commented as she made Fluttershy comfortable.

"Never the less, it is still necessary."

Rarity shot Luna a cold glare before approaching her comatose friend. "Effective, yes; necessary is highly doubtful though. If she does not come out of the spell whole, then we shall have to have another... discussion on the matter."

"One afternoon with you was more than enough," Luna replied as she gently rubbed the base of her horn to dispel the headache she felt approaching, "Truth be told, I am rather surprised to see you wearing my forces' armor. I had thought you would have told all to my sister by now."

"Do not tempt me," Rarity replied with an icy tone. "As a matter of fact, that was my intention. However, my friends here intervened and convinced me to give you a chance. If what you showed me is really the truth, then I shall not endanger this kingdom. Besides, with all of the traffic your forces do in the forest, they are the ones most likely to find the clues we need to get my sister back. Zecora has already concocted a mixture which should free her from Nightmare Moon, once we find her that is."

"Speaking of that. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, anything to report concerning the fillies location?"

"Nope," Rainbow Dash chimed in, "nothing solid anyways. Nightmare Moon is being careful and not leaving any meaningful tracks for us to find. And since we can't just go flooding the forest with troops without exposing ourselves, we really need a better communication network. We were hoping Fluttershy's animals might be able to help us out there. Plus, we were hoping they could also help with locating Pinkie Pie."

"Why? Has something happened to her?" Luna asked with a small note of worry.

"She missed her last resupply drop a few days ago. This is the first time its happened since she went into the forest and I'm worried that Nightmare Moon might have found her."

"Well," Rarity exclaimed as she joined in, "I don't know if she has been caught or not yet, but I do happen to know of a way to find out."

"You do?" Luna and Rainbow Dash exclaimed together.

"Why yes. It is a little trick I know she can do. So would everypony please spread out around the room?" Rarity called as she moved to a corner of the cottage.

With everypony else casting curious glances at each other, they all did as Rarity asked and took up positions around the room; except for the injured Night Guards who had made to rise with the others, but were ordered back down by their princess. Once they had all assumed their positions, Luna's curiosity peaked again, and she asked, "So what is it we do now?"

"Why now, somepony needs to make a promise," Rarity answered with a smirk, "a Pinkie Promise, actually."

Luna couldn't help but feel confused at this request, "And what, exactly, is a Pinkie Promise?"

"I am so glad you asked Princess," Rarity said while with a broad smile. "The simple fact of the matter is that a Pinky Promise is one that, once made, will need to be kept forever."

"Forever?" Luna asked, confused with this reasoning.

"Forever..." a disembodied voice called out from a cupboard.

"THERE!" Rarity shouted and pointed at the source of the voice, "Open it quickly!"

Rainbow Dash, being the closest to the cupboard , streaked on over and flung the door open to reveal... "PINKIE PIE!"

"Hi girls!" Pinkie said as she lay stuffed on the shelving, "What's up?"

"What's up?!" Rainbow Dash cried as she pulled Pinkie Pie out and gave her a fierce hug, "We were worried that you were missing or hurt! What were you doing in there?”

"Well, I was looking around the forest like normal when, a few days ago, the animals started acting strange all of a sudden," Pinkie explained after Dash had set her down again, "It was super odd. All of a sudden there were Timberwolves and Hydras and Manticore's running around all over the place. I couldn't hardly move without bumping into anything, so I had to wait for things to calm down. That's when I missed out that last get together Rainbow Dash. By the way, you wouldn't happen to have any of the Sugar Cookies on you would you? I'm almost completely out."

"Sorry, I don't have anything on me at the moment. But never mind that! What happened next?"

"Oh well, I guess I'll just have to raid one of my emergency cookie stashes later. Anyways, with all of the those animals and monsters running around I got to thinking, 'Maybe somepony is throwing a party!' I mean, why else would they be running out like crazy anyways. So, I followed a group for awhile and guess what? I didn't find any parties, but I did find Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo."

"YOU DID!?" everypony screamed in unison.

"Ah, yeah. I was just about to go on over and say hi when my Pinkie Sense told me somepony was talking about a Pinkie Promise, so I came back here."

Luna had listened to all of this with a look of mild bewilderment on her face, but after Pinkie actually stopped there she asked, "Be that as it may Pinkie Pie, how did you manage to hide yourself in the cupboard?"

"What cupboard?" Pinkie asked with a look of honest curiosity on her face.

"Why, the very one Rainbow Dash just pulled you out of!" Luna fired back as she pointed toward the still - open door.

After Pinkie made no motions to answer the question, Applejack just sighed and said, "Forget it Princess. This is just one of those things you got to accept as Pinkie being Pinkie."

Luna kept her look of bewilderment up for a moment longer, then she decided to move onto more important matters. "Very well. Now you said you came across the young fillies correct? Could you lead us back to their encampment?"

"Oh sure, it wouldn't take any time at all to get there. I think we might want to wait for Fluttershy to finish getting up first though." she said as she pointed over towards the Pegasus who was just starting to stir and was emitting a faint sobbing noise.

"Oh Twilight," tears were starting to fall freely down Fluttershy's face and into a small puddle on the ground when Pinkie Pie bounced over.

"There there Flutter's, it will be all right. I know it will."

Trying to hold back her tears long enough to see clearly, Fluttershy leaped up and hugged her missing friend, "How, how can you be so sure?"

"Well," Pinkie Pie started reluctantly, "I kind of stole a look at the script."

The confusion was apparent on everyponies' face as Luna stepped forward and asked, "So are you saying you know the future?"

"Not all of it," Pinkie Pie answered, still holding Fluttershy, "I couldn't see much, and he wouldn't show me anymore. The big meanie."

********

The moon was rising high into the night sky as the Timberwolve howled in pain while being levitated above the forest floor. "And who gave you permission to fail!" the two voices called from either side. Looking down, he could make out the Unicorn and Earth Pony forms of his mistress. The Unicorn was tending the boiling cauldron in the center of the clearing, horn softly glowing to keep him suspended, while the Earth Pony was circling him with eye's filled with contempt. "I gave you a simple task concerning the weakest pony in existence and you bungled it. Do you have anything to say for yourself?" He tried to whimper out a response, detailing the demise of his pack mates. "A likely story, but that is still no excuse for your complete failure."

At this point, the Unicorn faced him full on and gave a look of disgust. "Just be glad I have decided to grant you some mercy." With this, her horn glowed even brighter and shot out a slender beam of solid light with passed through his head. The glow around the Unicorns horn then disappeared and the Tmberwolve collapsed into a loose pile of sticks. As the Earth Pony began to drag the pile towards the cauldron and throw it into the fire below, the Unicorn turned and addressed the cowering mass of various monsters. "Let this be a lesson to you all about the price of failure. The next one will not be as, fortunate."

********

In the tree line of the clearing, a small assortment of ponies observed the execution with varying degrees of horror. Applejack and Rarity shared looks of revulsion, Rainbow Dash wore a look of disgust, Fluttershy had her head almost buried in the ground with her eyes tightly closed and looking like she was going to throw up, Pinkie Pie had a weird confused look, and Luna overlooked them all with a gaze of distaste.

"Oh Sweetie Belle, how could she make you do something so cruel?"

"And did ya see Apple Bloom there? She didn't even bat an eye lash. She used to get queasy when ever any of the animals got sick. Now she's feeding those remains into that fire."

"Now ladies," Luna whispered, "remember that they are not in control of themselves." Looking over the assembled group, she could not help but feel a sense of hope. If she and the remaining Element wielders could not dispel Nightmare Moon, no pony could. "Hopefully, that will not be the case for much longer. Rarity, you still have the mixture from Zecora, do you not?"

"Right here," Rarity said as she levitated a small yellow vial. "She said that it would expel any possessing spirits if we can coat their bodies in the powder."

"Correct. But remember, since Nightmare Moon is split between them we shall have to cover them all at the same time. Otherwise the linkage between them will not break and she will remain in control."

"Hey, guys," Rainbow Dash chimed in, "I get all that... but I only see two of them. Where's Scootaloo?"

"Why I am right here Rainbow Dash." This time a third voice joined with the duo from the clearing, which drew the ponies eyes upwards to find a small Pegasus perched in the trees overhead. Once Scootaloo was certain she had their attention, she jumped towards the clearing and used her wings to help boost her distance further away from the startled ponies. "And thank you for the advice about your mixture, child. It would be inconvenient to lose these forms just yet."

Realizing that the element of surprise was lost, Luna lead her band of ponies into the clearing. "Nightmare Moon, we are here to have you answer for your crimes. You are to release your hold on those young fillies and return them to their families," she decreed while keeping a close eye of the surprised monster hoard.

"I think not child. While it is inconvenient for them to be so young, this linkage between them does have its uses. Part of me will find it limiting again when I can finally merge these three bodies back into my proper form."

"You will not!" Rarity shouted out in horror, "You will do nothing to harm my sister!"

"And what makes you think you have a say in this matter?"

"I say the fact that ya have our sisters gives us plenty o' say!" Applejack shouted back.

"Possibly," the trio of fillies scoffed as they started to distance themselves from each other, "however, I think I have a way to remedy that. So far, all of my attempts to generate a melding potion have failed. But, if I were to use the essence of the three pony tribes I believe I will have more success. You, fortunately, will not survive the attempt." This last bit was made with a pointed glance at the bubbling cauldron. Apple Bloom then turned and faced the monsters who had been waiting on her command. "Take them down."

As the monsters gathered themselves to rush the ponies, Luna took a quick moment to formulate a plan. "Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, you three will need to incapacitate the fillies and dispel Nightmare Moon. Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, we are on monster interference."

"Oh, what's that mean?" Pinkie Pie asked excitedly, while Fluttershy just let out a small "Eep."

"It means ya get to play keep away, sugar," Applejack answered while keeping her eyes locked on her sister, "keep them things away from us."

"Okie dokie lokie!"

"Um, Princess Luna? Are you sure about this?" Fluttershy asked nervously, "I mean, how can I fight them?"

"My dear Fluttershy," Luna replied as she started to gather her magic for an attack, "I trust you will find a way to tame these beasts."

"Um, I really don't know about that..."

"Time to can it ponies," Rainbow Dash called out, "here they come!"

And with that the battle was joined. Luna hurled herself into a new pack of Timberwolves and began throwing telekinetic blasts left and right, throwing her foes in all directions. Once she was finished with her current bunch, she took to the air to find a new target. She either blasted them with magical energies from above, or swooped down into their midst to engage them at close range.

Leaping in between several Hydra heads, Pinkie Pie cheerily called out "Tag! You're it!" and began dogging the jaws which always seemed to be just a fraction of a second to slow to snatch her. "No you sillies, that's not how you play!" she called out a moment later while she looked at the various heads sticking out of a tangled mass of necks. "You were supposed to TAG me." Out of the corner of her vision, she noticed a single Cerberus pup making its way towards her friends. "Hey! You can't go that way!" she shouted as she pulled out her party cannon and shot out a blast towards the pup. All of a sudden it found itself with a wad of sticky dough in its face which caused it to stumble to the ground, getting even more entangled in the mess. "Oops, I must have mixed up the streamers and the baking dough again." she said with a slight giggle.

At the same time, Fluttershy found herself facing off with several Manticores. The one in front was giving her a suspicious look while all she could do was to crouch down and beg, "Um, if you don't mind, could you please leave us alone? We would really appreciate it. Eep!" she squeaked out as, all of a sudden, the lead Manitcore just leaned on in and unexpectedly licked her and gave her a welcoming purr. "Oh! I recognize you now. How have you been?" One of the other Manticores came on up and abruptly shoved the first one aside. Seeing this new behavior, Fluttershy just felt something inside her suddenly snap and she started to glare at the new monster. "You! There was no need to do that!" Faced with one of the most formidable force of nature, the Manticore found its will power suddenly faltering under the full force of "The Stare." Once she saw this Manticore was sufficiently subdued, Fluttershy turned her gaze at the remaining ones. "And you! Why are you all helping Nightmare Moon and being bad bullies. Shouldn't you be ashamed of yourselves? Why I should tell all of your mothers what you have been up to."

Meanwhile, the struggle against the three possessed fillies was not going nearly as well. All three ponies had no desire to seriously hurt their opponents while the fillies harbored no such restraint. Even though no pony could beat Rainbow Dash in a straight race, Nightmare Moon was using Scootaloo's natural agility to dart in and out of her reach, landing a string of light blows which were beginning to add up. "Dang it squirt. Why won't you just stand still!"

"Rainbow Dash! Dodge!" she suddenly heard Rarity call out. And as she instantly leapt aside, a bolt of lightning struck the ground where she had been standing. "Thanks!"

"Don't mention it!" Rarity called back as she continued to face down her sister. Sweetie Belle had not even glanced towards Rainbow Dash as she had launched her attack. "That was extremely bad form Sweetie Belle. I thought I was your opponent."

"Oh you are dear sister." Sweetie Belle said as she suddenly launched a slender beam of solid light straight at her sister. Rarity barely had enough time to throw up a weak barrier which diverted the beam just past her side.

"I must say that is a most curious spell. Maybe you could tell me how it works later?"

"I think that will be a problem, dear sister, since you shall not be around to learn it."

Applejack, in the meantime, was having a much harder time with her own sister. Even though she wasn't as fast as Scootaloo, or as deadly as Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom still had all of the strength she built up from working on the farm. And while Applejack's strength was greater, she was also less inclined to use her full force. "Gotcha!" Applejack called out as she pounced on her sister once again. "Now just hold still!"

"I think not, dear sis." Apple Bloom hissed out as she started to struggle. Eventually she managed to make enough room to land several powerful hits, with one just glancing the front of Applejack's throat. Coughing and wheezing, Applejack had no choice but to release Apple Bloom as she rolled away and tried to catch her breath.

*Cough Cough* "I...don't remember...you fighting...this dirty...before...Apple Bloom."

"I think you still have me confused with somepony else, dear sis." Apple Bloom shot back before she launched herself at Applejack once more.

Eventually, a shout from Rarity rang out, "Girls! Regroup over here please." Which prompted Rainbow Dash and Applejack to disengage from their fights and stand back to back to back with her.

"What's up?" Applejack asked once they were sure of their defenses.

"Well, we are obviously not making any progress with our current strategy, so I thought we might need to switch it up." Rarity replied.

"And just what do you have in mind?" Rainbow Dash countered, "I hope you aren't thinking about having us change targets; because, truthfully, I don't think you guy's could handle Scootaloo as she is now."

"Oh, I agree with you. And I do not want to think about either of you trying to handle Sweetie Bells current magical abilities." Sweetie Belle chose this moment to launch another solid light beam at them which Rarity barely managed to angle away again. "Case in point I think. No, what I am proposing is a change in tactics. Since we are having trouble holding them or disabling them, I think we should just try directing them. If we can just get them together, then I can cover them with the powder.

"A filly round up huh?" Applejack huffed back. "Can't see how it could hurt. Like ya said, we ain't makin' much progress this way. Let's do it."

"On it." Rainbow Dash called back out as she launched herself towards Scootaloo once more.

With the new battle plan in mind, things started to go a little smoother for the fatigued trio. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were now focusing on dodging their opponents blows and attacked with only the intent to drive the fillies closer to one another. It took several minutes, and numerous times with just two of the fillies together, but eventually they were able to force Scootaloo and Apple Bloom back to back to back with Sweetie Belle. Seeing the opportunity present itself, Applejack hurled herself in the midst of the fillies and called out, "Now!"

Rarity, realizing that Applejack was an attempting to focus the attention of the fillies on herself, quickly removed Zecora's mixture from her bags, tossed it in the air over the assembled group, and blasted the vial in the air. As the power floated down to cover the fillies, Rarity let out a sigh of relief. They had done it! They had vanquished Nightmare Moon and had saved their sisters!

Applejack as well was wearing a small smile of satisfaction and turned to watch her own sister return to herself. However, she was only greeted by another cruel smile from the filly as Apple Bloom suddenly turned around and bucked Applejack in the chest plate, hard! Scootaloo also took this opportunity to launch herself towards Rainbow Dash and land several unguarded blows directly into her face.

Seeing each of her friends going down, Rarity could only gasp in horror. Why did it not work? Glancing up towards where she had exploded the vial, she eventually noticed the fine dust was floating down only to be diverted to the sides by a faint barrier simmering in the air. 'She knew! She knew what we were trying to do and was ready for us. And I wasted our one chance to save them.' Rarity was so shocked by her failure, that she failed to notice the small flare up of power from Sweetie Belle, and let a full force lightning bolt slam into her armor. Fortunately the magical defense's of the armor absorbed a lot of the damage, but Rarity was still thrown several feet in the air and landed in heap, only semiconscious.

Surveying the scene from her position in the air, Luna saw the three friends go down and the three possessed fillies approaching them to finish their work. Seeing that Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy seemed to have the monster situation under control, Luna dived down and slammed into the ground behind the fillies. Turning to face this new threat, a smirk made its way onto the faces of the three as they began to circle around her.

"Still so foolish, you think to challenge me alone child? What can you hope to accomplish that these three could not?"

"I plan of your defeat obviously," Luna tried to keep the worry out of her voice as she attempted to keep all three fillies in her field of vision, "I will not be hampered by the feelings of restraint like they were."

"An empty threat child. You could not defy me back then and you cannot defy me now. You are weak without my conviction behind you and will remain just a small scared, little filly. Always either hiding behind or being overshadowed by her big sister. You will never be able to threaten me because, without me, you are NOTHING!"

Remembering the past and all of the consequences of it, Luna could not help but cringe. Nightmare Moon had a point. She had been almost nothing until she had begun to manifest her other side. Of course she controlled the Moon and the Night, but it was not just her anger at nopony enjoying her Night which brought forth her demon; it was her frustration that no matter what she did, she was always overshadowed by Celestia. It was only natural that the Day would always outshine the Night. Her manifestation of Nightmare Moon had given her the confidence to at least try though. However, it was not worth the cost she had wound up paying, or worth the suffering she had put her sister through. This time, she would handle the consequences herself.

"You may be correct that I am diminished without you, however you are still a threat to the peace and stability of this realm. As the Princess of the Night and co-ruler Equestria, I do here by proclaim you a threat of the highest order and will do all in my power to defeat you."

"Brave words child, but still an empty threat. You cannot defeat me without defeating yourself. Remember, I AM you, even if you never wished to admit it."

Luna hung her head at this declaration, for in her heart she could finally see the truth she had long been denying. "You are correct in that respect. I can see that now. After you left, I was distraught. Not just with my failure, but I was without my convictions. It took the gallant actions of my Night Guard to remind me that no matter the course, once it is set, one should see it to the end. So I will not fight you unto destruction."

"Oh? And just what is it you shall do then?"

"I shall embrace you," Luna softly intoned as she slammed a hoof into the ground, sending out a ring of dark energy which spread and quickly enveloped all four combatants. Even though they tried to dodge or run from the energy, the fillies found themselves bound to the ground and unable to move.

"YOU WOULD DESTROY US! WE WILL NOT SURVIVE THIS!" the fillies wailed as their forms seemed to waiver. One moment they would appear to be solid, the next a form of shadow and smoke would be visible as it was seemingly pulled toward the princess at the middle of the circle.

"No, we shall not survive as we are now. Instead, we shall be whole again once more." Luna softly spoke as she braced herself for the coming impact.

The fillies let out once final scream as their shadowy form were finally ripped from their bodies and began to swarm around the waiting princess. As the three fillies dropped to the ground like discarded puppets, the shadows twisted and squirmed as they slowly began to merge together to form one enlarged mass which looked down on the patient princess below with a look of hatred and contempt. With a final howl, the mass slammed itself into the princess and unleashed a powerful shockwave which shook the entire clearing. Seeing their mistress' forms laying on the ground, the remaining monsters scattered. Soon the only creatures remaining were of the pony variety.

"Ug, what happened? Did we win?" Applejack asked as she picked herself up off the ground.

"Well, I don't know." Pinkie Pie answered as she looked around the clearing in confusion. "Since we are the only ones left though, I think we did. Although I do hate it when sore losers just run away like that. We could have always played another round, and I would have volunteered to be it this time. Party poopers."

Trying to get her breathing under control as she slowly made her way towards her sisters crumpled form, Applejack tried to keep her groan inside herself. She could see that Rarity had dragged herself over towards her own sister, and Rainbow Dash was checking on Scootaloo. Fluttershy meanwhile was examining the prone form of Princess Luna who had yet to rise from her explosion. Once she reach Apple Bloom, Applejack slowly sank down and gave her sister a small nudge with her hoof. "Hey there little sis. Don't ya think you'v been sleepin' long enough." 'Wait a moment, did I just see her eyes flutter?'

"Oh, just five more minutes Sis." Apple Bloom let out in a very weak voice.

Applejack was so astonished that she just froze for a few seconds, then she found herself leaning in and giving her sister the biggest hug she could remember giving. "She's waking up! Apple Bloom is waking up!" she hollered out as tears streamed down her face.

"Sweetie Belle is too!" Rarity cried out from her position as she hugged her own sister.

"Even the squirt over here is starting to come around!" Rainbow Dash yelled as she kept a close eye on her biggest fan.

"Um, Girls? I don't know what's wrong with the Princess. She is the one not waking up now." Fluttershy softly called out from her position by Luna.

As the assembled group looked over towards the prone form, Luna's eyes suddenly shot open and were completely white with raw power! She slowly rose into the air and hovered over the forest clearing as magical vortex swirled around her and whipped the wind into a frenzy. Stray twigs and fallen leaf were blown every which way with a force more powerful than the strongest Pegasus storm on record.

"What in Tartarus is she doin'?!" Applejack yelled out over the storm.

"I don't know!" Rarity yelled back, "It looks like her magic is out of balance and is trying to stabilize itself!"

After several moments of enduring the winds, the storm slowly subsided and Luna was gently deposited on the forest floor. She took several deep breaths as her eyes slowly regained focus and observed the scene in front of her.

"Um, Princess, are you OK?" Fluttershy asked, since she was the closest.

"Yes, we...I think so." Luna said as she seemed to be slowly examining herself, "I must say though, that was most definitely, weird."

"Just what in tarnation happened to ya then?" Applejack called out.

"I finally realized something. I have been running from the truth that Nightmare Moon and I are distorted reflections of each other. I was so scared and determined to keep her buried forever that I never truly confronted her, my most spectacular mistake."

"And I take it this has now been rectified?" Rarity chimed in.

"Yes. I called her spirit back into myself and have finally sorted things out. She will never menace us again, for she is now truly a part of me."

"And just what do you mean by that?" Rainbow Dash shot in.

"I mean that Nightmare Moon's hatred had been seeping into my mind and plans even before she fully manifested again. I was disregarding options which would have been more beneficial to us all, and focused only on myself instead."

"So does this mean what I think you mean?" Rainbow Dash asked with a hopeful note in her voice.

"Yes. I shall do as you have suggested to me countless times before. Tomorrow, I shall request an audience with my sister and explain everything. No more hiding and no more secrets. Tomorrow, we shall leave the night and enter the day. Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, can you please make certain that the others are safely guided home?"

"Of course your highness."

"Okkie Dokie Lokie."

"Thank you. Now if you will all excuse me, I have a pressing desire to feel the wind in my feathers. So for tonight, farewell." And with that, Luna launched herself into the sky. 'Was I always this light?' she thought to herself as, in no time at all, she had reached the limit of comfortable cruising altitude. Leveling off, Luna just basked in the rightness of this feeling. Looking up at the moon hanging in the sky, she could not help but feel that everything would soon be put to rights. 'Soon my faithful warriors. Soon I shall be bringing you home.'

**********

Unbeknownst to the princess, another figure was looking at the moon and lamenting on the unfairness of life. Spike the dragon was slowly shuffling his way home to the library after another wasted day of waiting and another wasted night of binging on doughnuts. As he nearly stumbled on an unseen rock, he let out a violent curse. "Celestia damn it! What is going on? First Twilight, then the Crusaders, and now Rarity. Every pony I know is disappearing on me. Isn't there anything I can do to help anymore?"

A sudden flash of light and the noise of a crash in an alley off to his side caught his attention and had him hurrying over to investigate. Once he arrived, he peered into the shadows and saw a pony lying a pile of garbage, trying to rise but having no success.

"Hey! Are you all right?" he called out in concern as he rushed over to the unknown pony's side and tried to see what was wrong. What he found was a pony so covered in grim, cuts, bruises, and blood that he was amazed even Celestia's protection spell was keeping the poor soul alive. He gently helped them to their hooves and carefully slipped a front leg over his shoulder to help guide and support them towards help. "Don't worry. I got you. If you don't mind me asking, what happened to you?"

"...Spike... is...that...you?" The voice was incredibly weak and had next to no energy in it, but there was something in it that whipped his head over and he found himself looking into a pair of violet eyes.

"Twilight?" he could only ask in a faint whisper that was more prayer then question. He saw the eyes slowly start to tear up, and then he just lost it and gripped her as if he would never let her go again. "TWILIGHT!"

A Princess Betrayed

Dawn was just lighting the sky as Princess Luna circled around Canterlot one last time. The wind under her wings felt... fresh in a way that she had not felt in over a century. She was almost reluctant to abandon this tranquility, but there was important business that had to be attended to.

'I shall confess to Tia before I ask for the Moon's return. She will understand the significance of that.' Finalizing her thoughts and her resolve, Luna began her descent towards her private chambers. 'Interesting, the palace seems to be exceptionally lively this morning.'

Indeed. As she touched down on her balcony she could still hear the movements and voices from the courtyard. Whatever had the staff agitated this morning must be something important. As she entered her chambers, she sent a magical summons for one of her Night Guard to attend to her. She started to cross over to her mirror and was just beginning to prepare her grooming kit when one of her Sergeants rushed through her door and bowed low.

"While I commend you on a prompt response, what reason do you have for bursting into my chambers without even attempting a courtesy?"

"My apologies Majesty, but we have been waiting for your return since the news broke."

"Oh," Luna cut in, feeling her curiosity peak, "and what is it that has the entire castle buzzing this morning?" she asked as she turned to back towards her mirror.

"Majesty, Twilight Sparkle has been recovered by Princess Celestia."

That caused Luna's head to whip back around and stare at her Guardspony in alarm. "How is that possible? She should be... We saw her get... HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?!" she nearly shrieked as she felt her bottom land on the floor in shock.

"Majesty, I know not how she was returned. Only that Celestia departed the palace sometime after midnight, apparently in great distress after receiving a scroll from Miss Twilight's dragon assistant. Upon her return she called the courts entire medical staff to her personal chambers, including Princess Mi Amore, and has not emerged since. According to reports from the attending staff, Miss Sparkle was recovered in Ponyville, coated in injuries most dire, and even now is barely clinging to life with the assistance of your sister's protection magic. She is apparently in and out of consciousness and she has yet to report on anything of her abduction." Glancing up towards his princess's face, the Guardpony could see the shock starting to fade and a calculating look overcome her features. His own face and tone started to take on a steely undercurrent. "In the time since then, all of your forces have been put on high alert and now stand awaiting your instructions. We are now fully prepared to initiate True Night. Our targets have had their shadows attached and are ready to move. We only require your command."

"NO!" Luna cried out in alarm but then she quickly got her voice under control. "No, we will not be using True Night, inform them to detach and prepare to execute Everfree on my signal. We maybe still able to salvage this, but that will not be an option if we act rashly. Under no circumstances should we shed any blood unnecessarily. Am I understood?" she let a hard edge creep into her voice as the Guardpony let a look of disbelief cross his face.

"Completely." It was the only response he could voice under the harshness of his princess.

"Good. Now go and inform the rest. I shall be confirming the situation and will send out the signal personally if need be. Now be off."

With another bow and an abbreviated "Majesty," the Sergeant turned and ran to carry out his orders. His haste was so great that he had not even paused to close the chamber's door. After she magically closed the door herself, Luna turned towards her mirror once more and took a deep breath to stabilize herself. Closing her eyes, she felt the last vestiges of her earlier peace slowly slipping away. So close, she had been so close to confessing everything and avoiding a worst case scenario. Now if what she feared had happened, then the chances of this ending without bloodshed were swiftly approaching zero. Exhaling, she felt her resolve return to her like a set of heavy armor once more.

As she turned and started to exit her chambers, she paused only to grab a small satchel and settle it on her flank. 'If this truly has come to pass then I must be ready. I think a quick stop in the royal vault is in order, and then we shall confront our mistakes.'

**********

Princess Celestia sat near the edge of her bed and gazed upon its sole occupant. Her ever flowing rainbow mane was barely moving as she silently concentrated her powers and prayers upon the one she had failed. All of the powers at her command, all of the authority at her call, and she still was unable to prevent the tragedy that befell her most faithful student.

Twilight Sparkle lay in an uneasy sleep; her breaths were irregular and shallow and her face, even now, was creased with pain and sweat. Around Twilight was gathered the most knowledgeable doctors in the entire realm being lead by her niece Princess Cadance. They were all gently examining and probing her in an attempt to discover the extent of her trauma. The only others in the room were several guards Celestia had order to stand by, including Twilight's brother Shining Armor, who looked on with an almost-painful feeling of rage on his face; Prince Blueblood was waiting on any words the young mare might utter; and lastly, Twilights loyal assistant and best friend, Spike the Dragon, held a hoof gently in his claws. He has yet to leave her side even once since she had arrived, relinquishing his hold on her only when the doctors needed him to stand aside, but had returned to her the instant he was able.

Celestia's heart went out to the young dragon. Even more then her, perhaps even more than Shining Armor, he felt the greatest sense of betrayal. To him, Twilight was his best friend, teacher, sister, and mother all rolled into one and someone had taken her and very nearly killed her. If they ever discovered the one responsible for Twilight's condition, Celestia was not sure who would win the race between the brother and the assistant to extract retribution. No matter who it was though she would have to stop them, she could not allow them to seriously injure any of her other subjects, not before she had a chance to extract her own share of blood and tears.

As she noticed Cadance step back and approach her, she returned her senses to the present and faced her directly. "What is your diagnosis my Niece? Will she be able to recover?"

"Physically, yes Aunt Celestia. Mentally though, I am not so sure," the Alicorn said as she glanced back towards her struggling sister-in-law. "I do not know what kind of depraved soul would do such a thing, but whoever it was will not be able to be sufficiently punished under Equestrian Law in my opinion." Even though Celestia agreed with this assessment, the venom present in the voice was so far out of Cadance's nature that it prompted a questioning look from the princess. "Aunty, in addition to the damage you can see, we have found evidence of multiple bone fractures, her hide has been sliced and burned, both by flames and by electricity, so much we are surprised that it is still attached to her, her muscles are bruised and torn enough to suggest she went through a tenderizer, and many of her organs she signs of previous ruptures. But even more disturbing than all of this is the disproportionate amount of healing which has occurred over it all. As far as we can determine, not only was this done over the course of many months, it was done in such a way to guarantee that she felt every bit of the pain."

Celestia's face fell even farther with this bit of news, and she found herself in complete agreement with her niece. Not only would Equestrian Law not allow this villain to be sufficiently punished, she doubted that she would even be able to allow herself the ability to do so; at least she could not imagine being able to live with herself after the fact. "Have you been able to learn anything about who did this though? Has she been able to say anything?"

"No, not yet. She hasn't said anything coherent and we were reluctant to deeply probe her mind after all of the trauma it has absorbed. Now though, we believe it would be safe enough to awaken her. Your protection spell has healed the worst of the injuries."

"Please do so." Celestia's words were barely more than a whisper. "We need to know who was responsible for this as soon as we can."

With a small nod of her head, Cadance returned to her place among the other healers. After a quick consultation they all pooled their magic once more, this time with the goal of nudging Twilight towards consciousness. It still required several minutes of tense waiting, but eventually the mare started to become more agitated; she started thrashing around and her breathing became more erratic until her eye's finally shot open. Her eyes were wild and frantic as she quickly scanned the room and recoiled away from the gathered doctors.

"It's ok Twilight, you're home, you're safe, Twilight it's ok." Spike quietly reassured her. It was not until her eyes locked onto him that her panic started to fade. Her breathing started to calm down and her eyes became less frantic and started to mist over with tears.

Her voice came out thin and weak, "Oh Spike, it's really you, it's really you."

"Yeah Twilight, it's me. And don't worry, I'm not going to leave you again. Never again." he claimed as he gently embraced her, his eyes brimming with unshed tears.

Celestia looked on as relief threatened to cause her own eyes to become watery as well, but she held them back as she gently approached her student and caught her attention. "Twilight Sparkle, my most precious student, I am sorry to intrude on this but I must ask, do you remember who did this to you? Do you know is responsible for this?"

"Oh Princess," Twilight cried out, her eyes dripping with the tears now running down her face, "it was so horrible. They locked me up in some kind of dungeon, it was so cold and there was never any sunlight. I never thought I'd see you again. It was awful." she was nearly bawling now.

"Twilight, I know it was most horrific for you, but I promise that I will see those responsible punished. Just tell me who and I shall smite them with every means at my disposal."

"It was... it was..." suddenly, Twilight's eyes grew wild once more and she started to scoot away on the bed. Her hoof flew out and her voice rose to a frantic pitch. "It was her! She is the one who did it! Please, stop her! Don't let her near me!"

Startled, Celestia whirled around and stared at the figure who had just entered the chamber, at her own sister. Princess Luna stared back at her accuser wearing a look of shock and confusion on her face. "How? How is it that you came to be here? I know what happened to you and I swore you were beyond help, so how is it that you come before us again?!"

Celestia could only stare in astonishment at the words coming forth from her own sisters lips as she advanced further into the room. Others, fortunately, were stunned much less. "Guards! Surround Princess Luna! Do not let her near Miss Sparkle and do not let her escape!" Blueblood called out. Even though they were stunned nearly as much as Celestia, the authority in Bluebloods voice shocked them into action and they quickly circled around and blocked any routes the advancing princess could take. Shining Armor himself blocked the way forward towards his sister and shot a look of pure hatred at the advancing princess.

Looking around and finding herself blocked on all side, Luna scanned the assembled faces. Just before she faced her directly again, Celestia heard the last thing she would have expected from her sister in this situation, laughter. "Oh ha ha ha ha ha. So that is how you want to play it do you? Tell me, dear sister, do you truly intend to charge me with responsibility for this?"

Celestia shook herself out of her daze and addressed her sister back. "Luna, I do not what why this is so, but as Ruler of Equestria, I must ask that you do not resist and to submit yourself to my authority for questioning in this matter."

Spike, meanwhile, had nearly rushed on over and would have joined the Guardponies around Luna if not for Cadance herself holding him back and out of the way. "Is that true? Are you really the one who hurt Twilight?!" he bellowed, the rage coming through load and clear in his voice.

"I am afraid that no matter what, the answer I give you will not be satisfy you, any of you. So I am sorry sister, but as the other Ruler of Equestria I must decline your authority over myself and refuse to answer your questions here." Luna replied back with an almost... resigned look upon her face.

"Very well," Celestia answered back, "if you will not submit yourself willingly, then I shall have no choice but to force your cooperation." With this declaration, she started to gather her magical energy and approached her defiant sibling.

"You are welcome to try dear sister, but I think you shall find me to be a most unaccommodating suspect." Suddenly, Luna sent out a large pulse of magical energy which Celestia could find almost no reason for. This was followed very shortly though by a sharp telekinetic shove which staggered the Guards and a sharp bolt of lightning which both deafened the guards and blinded everyone in the room.

As her eyes quickly recovered, Celestia could hear her sister calling out. "If you actually desire the truth, then seek me out and I shall answer all of your questions there. He will be able to tell you were to find me." Celestia caught a last glimpse of a dark mist slipping under her balcony doors and out towards the open air.

Judging by the way Luna had said he, Celestia could only think of one pony off hoof she could have meant and turned towards her nephew. "What did she mean that you can tell us where to find her?

Blinking that last residual traces from the lightning from his eyes, Blueblood lowered his head. "Over the past several weeks I have had reports of strange activity in a couple of areas regarding Princess Luna and her Night Guards. I have yet to bring them to your attention due to a lack of collaborating evidence. Based on those reports though, I believe she is heading for the mountains overlooking Ponyville and will be meeting with the rest of her available forces."

"While her forces should be limited, they will most assuredly not come quietly. Shining Armor, I want you to detain any Night Guards who are still here and question them on the status of their comrades. Blueblood, rouse the rest of my personal guard and prepare them to move out, we shall be retrieving my sister one way or another. I shall be in the royal vault in the meantime, there is something I must prepare. Now go!"

The two stallions gave a quick nod before they dashed out to their respective tasks. Shining Armor's thoughts were consumed by the need to find anyone who might have been responsible for helping to hurt his little sister and to make them pay. Blueblood's thoughts were much simpler in scope and he allowed himself another small smile at the memory the damage his last one in that chamber had provoked. 'Perfect!'

************

Slithering through the skies in her form of mist, Luna felt herself seething in a near rage. How? How did they do it? One of the most loyal ponies she had ever met and they were able to turn her! Oh she understood now how they had gotten some of their information. Blueblood, the little snot, had let a small smile slip back in Celestia's chamber, a smile which had spoken volumes and had provoked her outburst in the chambers.

'I always knew he was a power hungry, narcissistic little twit, but I never expected this! What did they promise him to have him turn so easily and not even leave a hint of their presence on him?'

Letting her magical senses range wide and far, she located her fleeing Night Guards and performed a quick headcount. A feeling of relief flooded through her as she found all of them uninjured and free of pursuit. 'Now if I can only convince Celestia about what really happened.' If she had a face in this form it would now be gazing towards the heavens with a look of desperation. 'Please, no matter what happens, please do not make me kill her!'

*************

Prince Blueblood and Shining Armor found their Princess unmoving in the royal vault. She was just sitting and staring into an empty case which had previously held her greatest hopes. Without even looking in their direction she called out a simple command, "Report."

"Highness," Shining Armor started off, "I regret to inform you that there are no Night Guards remaining in all of Canterlot. It seems that unexplained magical pulse Luna fired was a signal. I have reports from all over the city of the Guards suddenly abandoning their posts and fleeing into the surrounding areas. Even the few Earth Ponies stationed deep in the castle were teleported outside with Unicorn assistance. I am ashamed to say it, but they must have been planning this for quite some time, the level of coordination involved would have required at least several months of preparation."

"Do not blame yourself to harshly my good captain," Blueblood cut in, "as the head of the Royal Intelligence I have collected some rumors that something was amiss with Princess Luna, but I would have never dreamed that she would have been capable of something like this again. Let us remember that above all else, she is the Grand Master of lies, deceit, and treachery. We could search the entire realm for all of time and still not find her equal."

"Watch your tongue Nephew," Celestia spoke with a hard edge to her voice, "do not forget that this is my sister you are speaking of."

Blueblood bowed his head low in apology, "I do not speak to condemn, but to admire. Such cunning is rare and I would be speaking in praise of such skills if they had not been directed at yourself."

"Yes, Luna was always the more clever one," Celestia spoke still just staring into the empty box, "even as a filly she was more at home hiding in the dark and pulling pranks from the shadows. However, it is time to show what happens when that cleverness is called out into the light of day." Finally she turned and faced her subjects directly. "And what is the status of my personal guard?"

"I am sorry to report that it will require several more hours before they are ready to depart," Blueblood did not bother raising his head as he apologized to his aunt, "this situation has caught them completely by surprise. Several officers were on extended leave and have yet to report back, and the rest are rapidly finishing overdue maintenance on their equipment. I believe it would be prudent to wait until your forces are at full strength before departing."

As her eyes drifted back towards the empty case, Celestia let an annoyed note enter her voice, "This is unacceptable. I agree that it would be foolish to leave before they are ready, but they should have been ready at a moment's notice." Now she fixed her captain with a piecing gaze. "After this is over, my Captain, we will have a serious discussion about what has lead to this situation .

This time, Shining Armor's head joined Blueblood's near the floor. "As you command my Princess. I only ask that you allow me to accompany you and to let me assist you in the retribution for my sister."

"I am sorry Captain, but that will not be possible."

At these words, Armor's head flew back up and gaped in disbelief at his ruler, "But, your Highness..."

"But nothing Captain." Celestia cut him off before he could continue, but her voice softened as she continued. "Nephew, you are a member of my family and I feel for your anger, but you are needed here. Your strengths have always lay in defense, never in attack. And I fear that my sister may have more than one plot at work. She visited this tower before she was exposed this morning and removed our most powerful weapon. In order to ensure I have enough forces to compel a surrender, I shall be drawing on both the palace and city guard ranks as well. Canterlot will be especially vulnerable today, and it shall fall to you and Cadance to make certain that our home is protected. To ensure that Twilight is kept safe."

As Shining Armor's head dipped again in apology, Blueblood raised his own. "Aunt Celestia, I feel I must remind you that you will be dealing with somepony who excels at treachery. Any surrender you secure without force will almost certainly have some hidden benefit to her. I implore you to finalize your victory by making sure the Night Guards will not be a threat again, ever."

"Mind your tongue Blueblood," Celestia snapped back, "you are advocating for the shedding of the blood of my ponies. Of my own blood."

This time Blueblood kept his head high and his gaze locked with hers. "I only advocate for what I believe to be the best for Equestria."

Celestia finally broke the gaze by closing her eyes and letting out a deep sigh, "Very well. I shall keep your warning, and your recommendation in mind."

At this concession, Blueblood lowered his head once more. Not out of humility or gratitude, but to keep the smile which threatened to appear on his face well hidden. "Thank you Aunty, that is all that I ask."

A Princess Falls

"Apple Bloom! Ya get yourself away from there, ya hear?"

"Ah, I ain't in the way or anythin'," the young filly called out as she backed away from the forge and closed her eyes. "Besides, Scootaloo's watching out for me."

As she watched her sister back up, avoiding everything in her way with her eyes still closed, Applejack glanced up the cavern wall to an outcropping where Scootaloo was relaxing and watching the scene below. "I know ya'll still have that link and everything, but can ya please stop doin' that! It ain't natural."

"Applejack, dear, after what they have been through, I hardly think that being a little...gifted...is all that much of a issue." Rarity commented as she strode up to her friend with Sweetie Belle trailing behind her. "I am just relieved we got them back unharmed from that vile creature."

"Oh, I'm with ya on that Rarity, but these abilities just ain't natural. And bein' from Nightmare Moon... their 'bout the last thing I want Apple Bloom usin'."

"I think it's neat," Sweetie Belle said with her head cocked in puzzlement. "We can do lots more than we used to and it makes plannin' our next crusade a lot easier! Why, I reckon that we'll get our cutie marks darn tootin' an' be able ta show 'em off to ya'll before... Hey! Stop doing that Apple Bloom!" she shouted towards her giggling friend.

"Sorry, but that was me this time," Scootaloo called out chuckling as she landed with a thump on the cave floor. "You gotta admit though, hearing you talk like that is hilarious!"

"Oh it is, is it?"

"Yeah, that particular shade of crimson you turn when you deduced the hoax we duped you into... Hey! No fair making me saying things I don't understand." Scootaloo yelled as her face lit up a deep red.

"See what I mean?" Applejack muttered at Rarity. "Bein' inside each other's heads like they are just ain't right."

"Yes, yes, it certainly does make it easier for them to get into more mischief," Rarity mumbled back. "Which is why I agreed to bring them here for Luna to try and sever that link. You do think she will be back today?"

"I don't see why not," Applejack said as she looked around at the still-bustling foundry area. "Besides, even after she clues in Celestia to all the goings-on, she'll have to come back and round everything up. It's not like we was plannin' to just let this all rust, no matter how things go in Canterlot."

Rarity let out a small sigh as she thought about their work ahead. "True. I just hope we really can pull this off. And having both of them together should really help even the odds."

"Yeah, I'm thinkin' that we got a real solid chance to..."

"To arms my warriors! To arms!" a voice boomed out over the entire cavern as Luna materialized at the entrance. "Grab sword and shield and prepare for war! To arms my warriors! To arms!"

Applejack and Rarity just looked on in shock, with the majority of the caves inhabitants joining them, as Luna trumped out her order. The only movement in the stunned cavern came from Luna's original Night Guard's, who wasted no time in rushing towards the weapons racks, and began to don their contents. Seeing the Guard's professionalism seemed to animate the rest, and soon every pony was making their way over to help. Every pony - except for Applejack and Rarity, who made their way over towards the princess. The fillies tagged along as well, but after seeing the look on the Princess's face decided to stay quiet.

As they reached her side, Rainbow Dash raced over, her face a combination of shock and rage, "What the Tartarus do you think you're doing?! You said you were going to explain things to Celestia!"

"That was my intention this morning Rainbow Dash," Luna commented as she watched her warriors assembling. "However, somepony reached her before I did and has since accused me of treason. They have poisoned my sister's mind against me, and plan on using her to crush us all."

"And just who in tarnation could do that? Who has that much sway with her besides ya?"

Luna let a cold glare enter her eyes as she replied, "My accuser was none other than Twilight Sparkle herself."

"Twilight? Ya mean..."

"Gracious, it really was..."

"I knew it! I knew that she would..."

"Silence." That one word had such frozen venom in it that the three friends instantly obeyed. "While I shall admit that Twilight Sparkle's survival is heartening and can be, beneficial to us in the long term, her appearance now is most disturbing and can only mean one thing: they are moving, and she would kill us all herself if we but give her the opportunity."

"Why would she do that!?" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she gave a small hop and hovered at the princess's eye level. "And you told us she was dead! Why weren't you doing something to help her?!"

Luna held Dash's gaze icily and slowly forced her back to the ground. "While I know you can be rash at times, do not give me a reason to think you are also stupid. I told you Twilight Sparkle was dead because I truly believed she was. I never in a thousand years believed she would break, and had given up hope of ever seeing her again. Also, if I had wasted even a single day since then, we would have no other option but to kill her ourselves." Looking at the shocked faces around her, Luna continued to glare for a few seconds longer and then let her face soften as she placed a hoof against the bag around her shoulder. "As it stands, however, we are now able to do otherwise."

"Ya mean we might actually be able to get her back?" Applejack asked with a light in her eyes.

"Yes. Our chances are slim, but if we are successful, then we shall have her back amongst us."

"Well then, what are we waiting for? Let's do this!" Hearing Dash's words caused both Applejack and Rarity to exchange a small smile and they all started to stand a little taller.

"What do ya need us to do then?"

"Firstly, Rainbow Dash, your princess requires you to locate both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie and bring them here posthaste."

"On it!" And with a quick, hasty salute of her wingtip, Rainbow Dash leapt off and true to her name, dashed away leaving a small rainbow streak behind her.

"Next, Rarity, I shall need you to gather the unicorns with an affinity for earthen magics and have them prepare a land sculpting spell for the cliff outside. If we are forced to fight here, I want enough room to maneuver."

"On my way," Rarity said, already running towards the gatherings of ponies and calling out for their assistance.

"Lastly, Applejack, are you familiar with the location of Zecora's hut?"

"Can't rightly say that I am," Applejack said as she scratched to back of her neck. "I've only been there once or twice; so I'm sure I could find it again, but it would take me some time."

"And time is the thing we are most short of. Very well, see if there is any other pony who is..."

"Oh, oh, oh! I know where it is!" Apple Bloom chimed in as she bounced up to her sister. "I've been there lots of times!"

Luna put her hoof up to her chin at this, "Hmmm, do you think you could describe the way for your sister? We need somepony whom can return here with her faster than a filly such as yourself can run."

At this, Apple Bloom just smiled, reached out a foreleg and looped it around Sweetie Belle. "I can do ya better than that. I can guide Sweetie Belle there myself!"

Luna could only cock her head to the side. "And how does having two fillies go instead of one help us?"

"It is quite simple, your majesty," Sweetie Belle said with a smile of her face, "thanks to our encounter with Nightmare Moon, we all got some nice boosts. The weirdest one was that we still have a mind-talking-link thing going on; so if Apple Bloom knows where Zecora lives, I also know where she lives. Also..." Here Sweetie Belle's horn glowed brightly and she disappeared from beside Apple Bloom and reappeared in front of Luna. "My magic got a major upgrade. She loved to teleport around the forest if she was in a hurry, so I was able to learn the spell too. And she gave me enough magical power that I could reach Canterlot and come back. While I won't be able to bring Zecora back with me, I can at least get there almost as fast as Rainbow Dash."

"And I have already given her another assignment. Humph, very well. Go and tell Zecora to make her way here at her best speed."

"Got it," and with a small flare and a brief flash, Sweetie Belle disappeared.

With her brow still creased in thought, Luna turned her gaze towards the two remaining fillies. "She said that you all retained something besides your link? So what is it that you two retained?"

"Well, it's not much, but I'm stronger an' tougher then I used to be," Apple Bloom said with a smile, "she always used me for the heavy liftin'. Scootaloo got a really nice perk though."

"Yeah," Scootaloo chimed in, "she kept on trying to make me able to fly. And even though that didn't work so well, I can at least use my wings for some really cool long jumps now." To demonstrate, her wings started to buzz and then she leapt towards the caves wall. Like she said, while it wasn't true flight, she did manage to jump at least a dozen feet up the wall from which she rebounded and jumped up even higher. After several small leaps to prove her point, Scootaloo kicked off the wall with a back flip and used her wings to slow her descent enough to solidly land on all four hooves.

"A very fine demonstration," Luna said with slight smile, "while it will not be much, I do believe we can make use of both of your talents."

"Now just ya hold it right there!" Applejack said as she interposed herself between Luna and the fillies. "I ain't goin' to let them be exposed to any more danger, ya hear!?"

"You need not worry, they will be performing support roles and information gathering only; they shall see no combat."

Applejack kept her gaze locked with the princess's as she replied, "Long as we got an understandin'..."

"That we do," Luna returned. "Now, please go assist the others with the battle preparations. I feel your kin will benefit greatly by having you there to lead them."

"OK. Just you make sure they're safe and sound when the brawlin' starts," Applejack called out as she turned around and headed for the assembling force.

"So, what are we going to do?" Scootaloo asked with a big grin.

"Has young Sweetie Belle reached Zecora yet?"

Apple Bloom closed her eyes as she replied, "Not yet. But she should be there in a few minutes."

"Very good. After she has contacted Zecora, I have another task for her," Luna commented as she started to head towards her personal area of the cavern. "In the mean time, both of you come with me. I shall instruct you in the use of my viewing orbs while I make my other...arrangements."

********

Celestia had already started to slow the sun's descent towards the horizon as she approached Ponyville. As she gazed down upon the town from her personal chariot, she wondered what the ponies below thought of the procession behind her. Over a dozen personnel wagons pulled by teams of four Pegasi each, with an additional two score flying security around the double wide column. It was a procession that hadn't been seen in countless generations - the personal force of a princess on its way to do battle.

'When was the last time I had to field a force larger than this?' Celestia thought to herself. 'Surely not since the campaign against those rogue dragons, at least. Although, I cannot help but feel slightly saddened by the turn out; only a single Company worth of Day Guard, Palace Security, and Canterlot Patrol available for this deployment? Against Luna's single Platoon, it should be enough, but I can see the peace has made us negligent in our duties. Why, we would be in dire straits if the local dragons banded together again for a direct challenge. I cannot fault their dedication though, not after that departure.'

As her chariot moved past the city below and out over the Everfree Forest, Celestia let her thoughts wander back over to the send off. 'I wish Blueblood had just left that phrase buried in obscurity, t may bolster their morale, but it belongs in the past. Along with... And what do we have here?' she thought as she felt a subtle ripple in the forest below. Calling out to one of her escorts, "Sergeant. There is a faint magical disturbance below us. Take a team and confirm its identity."

"Celestia fero Gloria," the guardspony called out as he dove towards the tree tops followed by his team.

'And there it is again; at this rate it will soon make its way into my forces once more. I have no desire to be thought of as a deity again; and any glory that I bring this day is already tainted by my failure to my subjects.' She let the guilt assail her once more as the Pegasi team approached the forest canopy. Then suddenly, she felt a number of faint ripples over the forest. No, not all over. It actually was a straight line which was, heading away? 'Oh very clever Luna, very clever indeed.'

"Majesty," the sergeant called out once he had returned to her side, "I am afraid we spooked them off. We found signs of somepony, but no solid trace of them."

"Fear not Sergeant, you merely flushed my sister out of her concealment."

"I do not understand, Your Majesty."

"It is quite simple," Celestia said as she gestured towards the mountains in the distance. "Unless I am mistaken, that was my sister's magic beneath us teleporting in short hops to run from us. She obviously came out to spy on our composition. And judging by the direction of her leaps, Blueblood was correct about the location of her stronghold." A grave expression settled on her face as she continued. "If she was still out here then it will take some time for her to organize her defenses. If we hurry, we may yet arrive before they are fully ready. Tell the column to advance at double time."

"At once, your Majesty," he voiced as he dropped speed to pass on the orders.

'Even if she is pressed for time, Luna shall have enough of it to prepare something. Whatever it is, I am sure it shall be directed at me personally,' she thought as her own chariot pullers increased their speed in compliance with her command. She felt her expression start to heat in anger as she envisioned what awaited her. 'I shall have to remember Blueblood's warning, Luna will tell me any lie to try and deceive her way out of this reckoning. And for my most faithful student, a reckoning she shall have.'

********

"Are you sure about she saw?" Luna asked the two fillies who had their eyes closed. "There were not any additional chariots or wagons behind them?"

"Nope, I just counted only those two rows of barges and Celestia's ride," Apple Bloom said as she opened her eyes and let them readjust.

"Yeah, and I counted at least thirty-five different Pegasus's before she was chased off," Scootaloo added as she rubbed her temples. "Ugh, that really gave me a headache."

"You have a headache?" Sweetie Belle reappeared gasping in a flash of light. "Try teleporting all over the forest and back. Whoa, I really need to lay down now," she finished as she slumped to the floor.

"Well done. All of you, and especially you Sweetie Belle. I could not have asked for any better intelligence."

Sweetie Belle gave a slight blush as she waved a hoof in the air over her head, "Don't mention it. But, could somepony please bring me some water? That really wore me out."

"At once, my noble little pony," Luna said as she gestured towards one of her guardponies. While he sprang into action, Luna let her thoughts flow inwards. 'Only a single company against me, my sister? Either you are seriously underestimating me, or you were even worse off than I thought.'

She let her gaze drift of the remainder of the forces, to her forges, and weapon racks as well. When her gaze did finally settle across the cave entrance, she noticed three arriving ponies: Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie who was riding on her back, and Fluttershy, meekly flapping behind them. A small smile broke the stern complexion of her face as she also spied a cloaked figure making its way to the front of her ranks. She now reached into her shoulder bags and brought out her sister's greatest weapon.

'Either way Tia, I now have more than enough to force you to listen to me.'

********

The convoy surrounded the lonely mountain peak. The wagons had peeled off into two circles with the multitude of Pegasi interspaced between them and the mountain. Only Celestia's carriage remained stationary as she considered the cavern entrance with her senior officers.

"There is not enough room to land our entire force, so we will have to land in waves. Commander, I want the first wave to consist of Day Guard Earth ponies in front with Unicorns in the rear for close fire support. Depending on the size of the interior, the Pegasi will either enter next or remain on station out here in order to keep up a barrier. If at all possible, I do not want us to strike first. We will give the Night Guard a chance to surrender, and any pony whom asks for quarter will be given it. Am I understood?"

"Completely, Your Majesty," came the reply from all sides.

"Very good. Also, under no circumstances should any pony attempt to confront Luna on their own. If she is spotted, send for me at once and I shall face her." Here she paused and gestured at the sun as it sat on the horizon. "In order to our limit confusion, I shall not be setting the sun until this is completed. So I suggest we get started so that we disrupt nature as little as possible. Let us be..."

A sharp crack shot through the air which directed all eyes toward the cavern entrance. With a series of grumbles and rumbling from the mountainside, Celestia and her officers looked on in puzzlement as the ledge around the cave mouth slowly started to expand. In less than a minute, the ground had more than tripled in size, reaching near the dimensions of the royal parade grounds.

After the ground had stopped moving, and all of the tremors had subsided, Celestia looked on with narrowed eyes. "It seems my sister wishes to settle things out here in the open. Commander, have a squad confirm the solidity of the new cliff side and strengthen it with some protective warding. Once this is accomplished, we shall land the entire force, but keep the order of march the same as before. Move out."

"Celestia fero Gloria," was echoed as the officers scattered off towards their respective commands. They left fast enough to not even notice the wince cover Celestia's face at hearing the shout once again.

Slowly, a single wagon and Pegasi flight approached the now extended cliff edge. The Pegasi landed first while staying light on their hoofs. As they slowly fanned out and let more of their weight settle, a Unicorn team teleported down from the hovering wagon and, horns glowing, examined the ground beneath them. As more and more of the ground was searched, Earth ponies in heavy armor jumped from the wagon and studied their footing. Eventually, all three groups signaled their acceptance of the grounds and gathered in its center. A sign from the unicorn Day Guard commander followed and all of the wagons made their way down.

Celestia continued to watch from above as her forces assembled. Even the entire force together only took up half of the cliffs width. Celestia wondered if Luna truly did hope to defeat them with her platoons mobility? Preposterous as it sounded, she could not think of any other reason for Luna engineer such a sizable field.

Once the ranks and files were formed and her commander signaled their readiness, Celestia leapt from her chariot and glided to her rightful place in front. With one final glance to ensure her army's readiness, she called out, "Luna! I know you are waiting for us! I implore you, you shall have your chance to refute the charges against you, but you must first come with us! Please, stand down your Night Guard and surrender yourself! I have no desire for bloodshed!"

The only sound which followed this declaration was her own echo off the surrounding walls. Celestia counted out five minutes in her head before she nodded towards her commander and he shouted out, "Day Guard! Advance!"

"Celestia fero Gloria!" The Day Guards taken only a single step forward when another shout came from the cave mouth with, "Luna nos Custodit!" Following this shout Celestia could make out her sister's Night Guard making their way out of the cave in a steady stream. Celestia could only wonder what her sister was thinking as the single platoon formed itself into a solid line. But then she realized that the flow of ponies had not stopped! It seemed to continue on forever as more made their way out and formed ranks behind that first line.

'How is this possible?! Could she have resummoned the others?'

Her commander had halted his advance after the shout. He now approached Celestia while keeping his eyes on the opposing force, which now covered the entire width of the field. "Majesty? I do not know how she did it, but if those truly are Night Guard, then I am afraid I cannot guarantee we will be victorious."

Celestia only shook her head at this comment, not in denial but in wonder. "I do not know either commander, but it is not as bad as that and also infinitely worse." Seeing the confused look on his face she continued, "Take a closer look at the ranks behind the front. While they may wear the gray armor of the Night, they do not possess the Glamour Charm of the Guards. Somehow, she has turned my own ponies against me." Here, a single tear made its way down her face.

After the grey armored force had stopped moving, Celestia shouted out again, "I would speak with my sister! Bring her forth so that we may avoid this battle!"

"I'm afraid we ain't goin' to be able to do that, Princess!"

Celestia felt her jaw nearly drop in shock as she identified the voice which responded to her. As the echoes died away, the center column of the Night Guard parted and allowed five ponies to make their way towards the front. Once she saw them advance onto the field and beyond their assembled ranks, Celestia walked forward to meet them with her commander following close behind. She received another shock after they had gotten close enough to discern details, for she found herself facing two Earth ponies, two Pegisi, and a Unicorn. And while they all sported the gray armor of her sister, they each had a single splash of color as well; they all wore a necklace fashioned after the Cutie Marks which adorned their flanks. They each bowed low as they arrived in the center of the field, and when they arose, she found herself facing the wielders of the Elements of Harmony.

"Applejack. I hope you have a good reason for being here. On the opposite side of the field from my Day Guards." Since it was she that answered her call, and since she was standing slightly in front of the others, Celestia decided to limit her conversation to the apparent spokespony.

"Princess, I never thought I'd see the day I'd be standin' on a field opposite ya. But please understand, this is not just about ya, this is about the future of Equestria."

Celestia let her gaze wonder over the ponies she had counted to save her kingdom numerous times, and who had also personally saved her life. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity all had a sad yet determined look in their eyes. Pinkie Pie was continuously gawking at the assembled armies and let off the occasional giggle. Even Fluttershy seemed to be holding some measure of resolve, although Celestia could still make out a slight rattle coming from her armor. "Equestria? How does this help Equestria? How does plunging the kingdom into civil war serve Equestria?"

"I'm afraid it's complicated, but this is also our way of finally bein' able to help Twilight."

"Now you are intentionally confusing me. Twilight Sparkle is now recovering in Canterlot from life threatening injuries. Injuries she has named Luna responsible for! How in the name of Discord is any of this supposed to be of help to her?!"

"Like I said, it's complicated. However, Princess Luna is waitin' for ya inside and would like the chance to explain it all if ya can just stop tryin' to arrest her."

Celestia looked back and forth between her outnumbered Canterlot forces and Luna's bolstered Guards. "Alone? My sister is willing to meet me alone?"

"Yeah. No armies, and no tricks, and maybe the two of ya can work this out."

"Majesty! You cannot be considering this?!" her commander said as his gaze went between her and Applejack. "You cannot risk yourself on the deceitful words of your enemies!"

"Enemies? Are you truly my enemy Applejack? Would you actually attack me or intentionally lead me into danger?"

Applejack slowly lifted her hoof and placed it on her apple shaped necklace, "Princess, I swear on my Element of Honesty that I have no desire to fight ya, or the forces under your command. However, I also swear that in order to save this kingdom, and to protect Twilight, I will do whatever is necessary."

Celestia kept her eyes locked with Applejack's as she heard this oath. After it was finished, she glanced at the other ponies and saw that each of them also held a hoof on their own elements. Taking a deep breath, Celestia let it out in a faint sigh, "Very well Applejack. I believe you."

"Majesty!"

"Quiet commander. Return to my forces and explain this to them. I will confer with my sister alone in order avoid the spilling of any of my ponies blood."

The commander let a rumble of displeasure enter his voice as he replied, "As you command. However, all you have to do is call for us and we shall fight our way to you. No matter how many stand between us, we shall reach you."

"I pray it will not come to that. Now return and tell the others of my decision." As he turned around and made for the waiting Day Guard, Celestia faced forwards once more. "Now, take me to my sister."

"At once, Princess," Applejack answered as she and the others turned around and led her back towards the Night Guards lines. As they approached, the lines parted once more and ponies on either side bowed their heads and muttered words of respect. Only the true Night Guards kept their backs straight and their attention on the opposing Day Guard as a shout erupted from the far side of the field.

"Celestia fero Gloria! Gloria! Gloria!" The chant continued as Celestia made her way through the ranks and entered the dark cavern mouth.

'I am afraid that any glory we win this day will be dark indeed.'

********

"Alright, she's comin' in now. Are ya sure ya don't want any more help?" Apple Bloom asked as she approached the princess.

"No young Apple Bloom. Against my sister, I am afraid you would be more of a hindrance than a help," Luna replied through a faint smile, "now go and join Sweetie Belle in the store rooms. And under no circumstance should either of you reveal yourselves until you are called for. That also goes double for young Scootaloo. If the Day Guard notice her hiding in the rocks outside, they may attack before they realize who she is. Am I clear?"

"Yeah, I got ya. We'll make sure to stay safe. And, good luck to ya." And with that, Apple Bloom ran off towards the deeper parts of the cavern, leaving Luna sitting by herself with her back towards the entrance of the foundry area. Where her sister found her a short time later.

"Luna? Is that really you?" Celestia asked as she rounded the last turn in the tunnel.

"Yes dear sister. I am here. Would you care to come sit with me?" Luna answered without even a glance over her shoulder.

As she made her way towards Luna, Celestia let her gaze wander over the scene in front of her. The fires of the forges still burned hot; dozens of weapons racks now stood empty, their various items now adorning the ponies outside. She saw signs of a major military center outfitted for even the longest of battles everywhere she looked; except for the one place she could not bear to glance to - her own sister.

"You have been quite busy indeed. Tell me, was all of this aimed at me? For revenge?"

"Revenge?" Luna let out a small sigh at this accusation. "No, revenge was never a part of it my sister. While a part of this was intended to be pointed at you, it would only have been barred if you had failed to see reason."

"Reason? What reason would you have to arm our ponies for war? Why would you, why did you turn them against me? If the reason was not to wound my very soul, then please tell me why you would do this?!" Celestia was barely able to restrain the tears in her eyes as she finally faced her younger sibling.

Luna was also holding her tears back as she turned towards her sister. "I am very sorry for I was being exceptionally foolish. And for that I do ask for your forgiveness. However, I do have severe matters which forced my hoof and pressed me into this very situation. If you would just hear me out, I would gladly tell you the tale."

Celestia looked her sister over once more, and could not find a single sign of preparing an attack. It appeared she really did wish to just talk. As she took a deep breath to ready herself, she reached up a hoof and wiped away her unshed tears. "Very well Luna. I shall hear this story you speak of."

Luna reached up and wiped her own tears off her face and began, "Thank you Tia. My story begins after my fall into madness and banishment to the moon. You see..."

********

"It's been awfully quiet in there," Rainbow Dash said as she attempted to keep her eyes on the Day Guard in front of her and her ears on the cave behind her. "Judging by the look the Princess had, I was almost certain she was going to sock Luna once she found her."

"Now that is no way to expect anypony to behave Rainbow Dash," Rarity responded as she attempted to split her attention as well. "You may not understand, seeing as you have no siblings of your own, but while we sometimes might wish to literally strangle our younger sisters, we will usually give them a chance to explain first."

"Yeah, yeah. I get that. But you saw the look on Celestia's face when she recognized all of us. She looked like we had just ripped her heart out and was going to blame it on Luna."

Rarity let her sights rest on Applejack for a bit as she was forced to stand in the forefront of the Night Guard formations as both a beacon and symbol for her family behind her. "Yes I saw it Dash, but do not forget. She still feels the love she has for her sister and that is what will give them the chance to end this peacefully. We engineered the timing of this too carefully to just throw it away on the assumption sisterly aggression." Here Rarity's eyes flickered momentarily towards the side.

Rainbow Dash risked her own quick glance into the rocks on the mountain side. It was hard, especially since her cloak blended into the surrounding rocks perfectly, but she could just make out the form of Scootaloo as she overlooked the battleground. "Yeah, I'll admit the squirt did really well with getting our timing down. But I still thought Celestia looked too betrayed to really listen."

"You may think that, but please pray that she does. I have no wish for this to start before it really has to."

********

"...which brings us to where we are now Tia. And to the end of my tale." Luna turned and faced her sister once more. Celestia's face had been lowered since shortly after Luna had begun speaking, and even now her face remained hidden behind her ever flowing mane. Although, Luna could now see a small river of tears as they dripped down her face.

"Oh Luna. How could I have been so mistaken?"

"Then you... then you truly believe me?" Luna turned her back to hide her own tears as she reached up to wipe them away once more. It was this motion which caused her to miss seeing Celestia raise her head with her horn glowing brightly, and it was this which left her completely unprepared for the magical blast which struck her back and slammed her into the wall.

"How could I have missed the signs this time? Even though I was so careful, even though I tried so hard. How could I have let this go on for so long that I endangered not just you, but all of my other subjects as well? To let you brainwash them with these lies, and to even let you attempt to use it on me? I am sorry for how much I have failed you my little sister." Even though the tears were falling freely now, they could not extinguish fire of anger and torment which raged in Celestia's eyes as she watched her sister regain her feet. "I only pray they, and you, can forgive me for my failure."

"Your failure?" Luna said as she spit out some blood from her mouth. "Your failure here is that you are failing to see the truth! He is manipulating you and wishes to be rid of me!"

"Enough!" Celestia shouted as she stomped her hoof and began to charge her magic once more. "We both know that they are still sealed and can never return, so I will not hear any more of this deceit! Every word from your lips has been lies for who knows how long! I am sorry it took the near slaughter of the realm, of my ponies, of Twilight Sparkle to make me finally realize it. But I will do whatever it takes to stop you here and now!"

Luna saw the seriousness in her sisters stance as she started to gather her own arcane energies. "Oh really, my sister? Ever since my fall, you have failed to defeat me in fair combat. You have been forced to rely on others to do the fighting for you, or on cheap tricks like just now! Do you really think you will be able to defeat me here, on your own, and without your precious Elements?"

"Whatever it takes," was Celestia's answer as let her magic fly.

"Then so be it," Luna replied with her own power.

The mystical energies collided in the middle of the cavern and began to fight for dominance. Bight golden light mixed with dark midnight blue as they swirled, wrapped, and attempted to smother the other. Eventually, the entire mass of power turned a burning orange color, forming one giant sphere. The forces generated by this mass had the winds ripping across the cavern complex. Mini vortexes sprang to life, spreading glowing embers and dying ashes from the forges throughout the air. It also picked up the weapon racks and slammed them into the walls, the forges, and each other, slowly grinding them down into flying spears of wood. Despite this, both princess attention remained fixed onto the other, since even the smallest distraction would lead to their balance being lost and then being overwhelmed.

So it came as no surprise that Celestia did not immediately react when she felt something collide with her back. She was forced to respond however, when she felt the sharp pain of a blade run itself from wings to tail along her spine. She bucked as hard as she could and saw a shrouded form leap from her back and scurry away. She tried to keep her concentration focused while this was going on, but the balance had already been lost. Luna's magic quickly consumed the sphere between them and with a load explosion, it bust and focused all of the constrained energies on her sister.

Celestia wasted no time as she quickly cut off her push for dominance and threw up a golden shield of protection. The unstoppable force of their combined magic's met the immovable object of her shield which quickly started to show its strain. Cracks started to form across the shields length, while the edges rapidly became chipped and jagged. She did not know how long the torrent would last, but she knew unless she poured everything into the shield that she would be instantly consumed by the elemental forces. Celestia's vision started to blur and her head started to throb as she continued to hold her ground, until she suddenly slipped and fell to the ground, and the energies abruptly shifted and soared into the ceiling. She started to immediately try and regain her footing, but Celestia found her legs had no strength, her vision was spinning, and her head throbbed whenever she tried to summon her magic.

"It is most disconcerting, is it not my sister?" Luna said as she started to advance on Celestia.

"How? Who was...that? What did you...do to me?" Celestia gasped as she continued to fight her own body.

At Luna's gesture, the cloaked form reappeared before the sisters and threw back its hood to reveal a face stripped in black and white.

"I myself have also suffered from the effects of this toxin my sister, so believe me when I tell you I know what you are going through. You have lost the ability to continue this fight. So please, surrender."

"You...you...cheated."

"But of course. I figured it was my turn and made my plans accordingly. Besides, this was far too important to leave to chance. Now, please yield, my sister."

As Zecora returned the small dagger to her harness, Celestia could just make out a subtle sheen of poison on the blade, and the faint coloring of blood along the edge. "No matter how much one struggles, no matter how much one tries, they can never defeat an enemy which attacks them from the insides." With her face softening into a plea she continued, "your body no longer listens, your head can feel only the strain. Please submit yourself, before you succumb to the pain."

With a slowness which showed the great deliberation that each action took to perform, Celestia gradually regained her feet but kept her head low to the ground and muttered, "Never. What...ever...it...takes."

"Very well then, my sister." Luna said as she closed her eyes, and summoned a magical blast which struck Celestia squarely in the face. Her sister instantly collapsed, but her head was lowered gently to the ground by the magic which still enveloped it. As Zecora rushed forward and began to position the fallen princess into a more comfortable position, Luna approached much more sedately and gently lowered her horn to her Celestia's forehead. "Worry not my sister. I shall make this quick." With that, Luna's horn began to softly glow; and when she rose once more, a faint trickle of energy flowed from Celestia's horn to Luna's which caused her to gasp.

"Are you well? Are you in any pain? Magic absorbed too abruptly will cause you a tremendous strain."

"No Zecora, I will be fine. It is just, a lot to take in all at once. I wonder if she felt the same after she had took the moon from me for the first time. Are you sure she shall be alright?"

The zebra nodded as she reached out and brushed a strand of Celestia's hair behind her ear. The ever flowing mane was nearly still and had shrunk down to just over a normal sized amount. Even though it still moved in her sleep, one could begin to see individual hairs forming around the edges. "You have been here before and were even more diminished for a time. Do not fret or worry, let us keep our eyes open until we cross our finish line."

"You are correct. First things first. Go retrieve the fillies and tell them what has transpired. Once they have been able to relay the message, you will need to secure my sister for travel. It will be a most crude use of her stature, but the effects cannot be overlooked. However, please try to make her as comfortable as possible."

Zecora merely nodded as she started to trot off towards the rear of the cavern. After Luna watched her turn a corner, she reached down and nuzzled her sister. "I am sorry it has come to this Tia, but you left me no choice. I shall do everything in my power to make this as quick and as bloodless as possible. You have my word as a Princess of Equestria."

With that declaration firmly planted, Luna turn around and head for the caverns entrance. She had an army she had to route.

********

"I can't say I like the look of this," Applejack muttered, "they've been gettin' antsy ever since that wind stopped howlin'."'

"Yeah," Rainbow Dash muttered back, "I'm surprised they haven't tried anything yet. That commander over there was just itching for a fight."

"Be that as it may dear," Rarity mumbled, "Celestia would not have promoted him that high if he was an idiot. He must know that to fight us here would be suicide."

"Oh I'll agree with ya there Rarity, but it's been plenty proven that ya don't have to be stupid in order to do somethin' dumb."

Rainbow Dash looked over her shoulder as she heard a commotion starting near the cavern's mouth. After a quick hoop into the sky, she landed again almost instantly. "Well , I guess it's time to see just how bright he is. Luna's on her way up front."

Each of the friends bowed their head and reached up a hoof to touch their necklace's. "I'm glad I didn't have to watch that. There's no way it could have ended pretty."

"Granted Applejack dear. But here comes the real test. How Luna handles the Day Guards will set the tone for how the rest of this adventure will be played out."

The rumblings in the ranks of the Night Guard were generally subdued as Luna passed through. The majority of the ponies simply bowed their heads and muttered small words of prayer for the well being of the princess they knew had fallen. The Day Guard, on the other hoof, started with cries of surprise and anguish once they realized that Luna was approaching them alone, with her sister nowhere to be seen. The only pony who seemed to keep his composure was the commander as he started to advance towards the field's center once more to parley with his enemies. Behind him, the massed guard spouted the most vile obstinacies they knew. They hurled them upon Luna and her forces as if the words could do harm in the their stead. The only thing which seemed to keep the entire force from descending into an angry mob was the discipline of the Day Guard Officers and the fear which undercut all of even their most vile curses.

As he approached the Night Princess, the commander neither cringed nor bowed. He simply looked Luna directly in the
eyes and asked, "Is she still alive?"

"Of course commander. She is a mite bruised and slightly crisped, but no great harm has befallen my sister. No matter what you were all lead to believe, I am no longer the monster I once was."

The commander nodded and seemed to mutter something like a prayer under his breath, and then he continued, "So now, I am compelled to ask, what do you intend to do?"

"I shall transport my sister back to Canterlot. There she shall witness the removal of our enemies and us ensuring our victory for all of Equestria. Now you, commander, have a choice to make. Will you yield your force to mine, or will you force me to annihilate you?"

"I have another choice in mind, your majesty. I shall lead my troops here against you and we will rescue Our Princess. The majority of your forces are nothing more than a paper dragon. And once I take care of you, we shall crush your little rebellion." His horn started to emit a soft glow as he started to show his resolve. "Out of thanks for not killing her, I will face you honorably, but I cannot allow you to return to your forces."

Luna's face quickly went from one of shock to one of mirth as she laughed out loud after hearing the unicorns words, "Do you even hear yourself commander? Do you even comprehend to whom you are dealing with?!" she cried out as she flapped her wings and slowly rose into the dusk light sky. As the opposing forces watched, Luna's horn began to shine and she called out in the Royal Voice, "I am Luna! I am the Princess of the Night! I am she who now rules all of the heavens and am she who can summon her legion to her side once more!"

With a sharp gesture towards the horizon, Luna forced the Sun down and plunged the land into a temporary darkness, until the Moon rapidly rose and took its delayed place. As the words that Luna shouted echoed off the hill side and the commander registered the noise, he turned and focused his attention on the rising moon, "No! That is impossible!"

"Not impossible commander. Merely very difficult." Luna replied in a normal voice as she settled to the ground once more.

As he watched, the commander started to make out a shadow which moved out from the moon. It was not even solid, but seemed to be a whirling mass of various shapes and forms which swirled and twisted about each other. They screamed and howled with cries of such ferocity that the very wind seemed to answer them and began to blow in gusts and bursts. Eventually, he could distinguish the occasional wing tip or horn concealed in the blackness, and the screams began to form more coherent cries of Equestria and Luna as they drew closer. The entire mass continued until it slammed into the field, kicking up so much dust and debris that the commander was forced to shield his face until the wind had calmed down.

As he lowered his foreleg again, he was faced with something out of a nightmare. Now between him and his troops, in fact, on every piece of previously unoccupied land and even covering the sky, now formed a sight straight out of Tarturas. It had the same overall shape of a pony, but the features were all washed out as if they were covered in a deep shadow. Their bodies wavered back and forth on the breeze as if they were spirits from beyond. And the eyes, they burned with such an intensity that they left a streak of fire in their wake. The ranks of the Day Guard closest to the apparitions flinched away in horror and scrambled to press themselves deeper in their own ranks, but their fellows had pressed even tighter together and held them forth as shields against the night.

As the commander looked on in horror, he twisted about as if trying to watch every side at once until Luna's voice broke through and grabbed his attention once more. "As you can see, commander, this battle would accomplish nothing beyond a massacre. And while I do not wish for that, it is also apparent your forces are too terrified to reasonably surrender. So I have another proposition for you."

"And that would be?" He was almost proud with himself that his voice was steady and that his teeth did not chatter.

"Take your forces, and run. Scatter to the winds with your tails between your legs and tell my enemies that the True Night has returned. That tomorrow on the dawn, we shall rain down on them and they shall rue their choice to stand against me. Go now and tell them that I am coming and that I bring retribution with me."

As he shrunk back from the fury he saw in her eyes, the commander noticed a gap form in the shapes around him, one that lead back to his troops. As he considered the threats hurled against him, he turned and ran as fast as his hoofs could bear him. As he approached his ranks once more, he started to shout out, "Fall back! To the wagons and to Canterlot! Fall back!"

The terrified forces did not have to be told twice, they had started to move the instant they had heard his voice. A mad dash of Earth Ponies and Unicorns struggled towards their waiting wagons, while the Pegasi immediately took flight and interposed themselves between the flying terrors and their ground bound comrades. As the various wagons neared their carrying capacity, their Pegasi teams took flight and began a mad dash away from the mountain, occasionally with a last pony or two still being levitated onboard. As the last of the wagons left the ground, the remaining Pegasi dropped in behind them and began to carry and push the wagons together in an attempt put even more distance between themselves and the horrors they had faced. Soon the only sign that they had even been there was Celestia's personal carriage which was left abandoned.

As she watched them recede into the distance, Luna heard a cheer erupt behind her and also noticed Applejack approaching. "Well, I've got to say that this was mighty impressive. I think most of us got several seasons of our lives scared right out of us, even with the heads up of what was coming."

One of the closure apparitions approached Luna as well and bowed low. "Well, we aim to please. And I believe those idiots would sprint half way across Equestria before they even thought of slowing down," it said in a rasping voice. "Funny though, I remember the Day Guard being a lot tougher."

"It is good to see you my Marshall. It is good to see all of you once more. Applejack, are the rest of your friends able to come forward?"

"I'm afraid not princess. Rarity and Rainbow are tryin' to bring Fluttershy outta her faint, and Pinkie is having too much fun trying to play tag with a ghost. I'm afraid I'm it for the moment."

"Well don't forget about me or anything," Scootaloo said as she ended a long jump next to Applejack. "It's not like I did anything to help pull this off."

Applejack just reached down and ruffled the little fillies mane, "Well arn't ya just the picture of humility. But ya're right, without ya or all of ya'll link, I doubt we could have hit the timing as well as we did. Good job there young'n."

"Ah, don't mention it," Scootaloo said with a blush, "Hey, do you think Rainbow Dash will say the same thing?!"

"I'm pretty sure she will. Why don't ya go and ask her yerself."

And with a quick giggle and glance to find her idol, Scootaloo bounded off for another round of praise.

"While it is true the young fillies fulfilled their roles admirably," Luna said as she watched Scootaloo squeal under a head rubbing from Rainbow Dash, "I must also congratulate you and your family Applejack. That fleeing commander called you all a paper dragon, but I have no doubt about the outcome if they had decided to ignore reason."

"It is funny that he called you that, even though it is us who are less substantial then mist on the winds," the ghostly voice said with a chuckle. "While it is good to see Equestria again, I am sorry that we will be unable to help you in real combat your Majesty."

"Do not worry yourself my Marshall. You shall keep the terror alive enough tonight and afford us a victory on the morrow. No go. Do that which you have learned to do best."

"By your command my Princess," the form bowed low before jumping and raising into the air, "Night Guard! We have our orders! Advance!"

"LUNA NOS CUSTODIT!" was the reply as the shadows jumped as one and trailed away into the sky. They could be seen making their way after the fleeing Day Guards, but at a very sedate pace.

"Well, we should begin our preparations to follow," Luna called out in a carrying voice, "I wish us to a parked outside of Canterlot's walls before sunrise, and I will not be delaying it just so we can be lazy. Let us move it my ponies!"

As she received shouts of acknowledgement, Luna let her eyes rest on the sight of her sisters carriage near the cliffs edge. 'Oh, that will do just perfectly. A nice crowning touch to the look,' she thought to herself as she made her way back towards the cavern's mouth. 'I am sorry for the disdain I am about to heap on you my sister, but I believe you will come to see things my way and forgive me. In time.'

Author's Note

Hey peoples. Sorry this update was so long in coming, but unfortunately you are all now caught up on my writings. All of my updates in the past were from chapters that I had finished long ago, now you will have to wait like everyone else where I publish. I will try to keep that to around once a month, but I make no promises about that.

Anyhow, thank you to everyone who has been waiting to continue this ride with me. I know that most of you don't really talk all that much; but to those that do, an extra big thank you. You guys are the ones who make this seem to have any meaning and are the life blood to amateur authors like myself. I only can write when I have the time and the drive to do so, and those little bits of encouragement help generate the drive, which can help me find the time to do this.

So once again, Thank You!

A Traitor at the Gates

As he stood looking out across Canterlot from a window of the royal suites, Shining Armor felt a mixture of pride and shame which left him humbled in a way he had not felt since he was a new recruit. The pride came from how his guards were handling the news of the advance company's complete rout. They had stepped up and had almost the entire city sealed up tight before he could even start casting his shield spell. The citizenry were huddling in their homes, terrified of the monstrosities which were even now assaulting the glowing dome; their shrieks and screams piercing the dark and threatening nightmares to all who attempted sleep, but his ponies had every battlement covered and stood ready to repel anything which made it through. The shame came from the fact that this was even necessary in the first place, and that he was currently unable to do anything for his Princess who had fallen into the enemies hooves.

He turned back towards the royal sized bed at the moan from his sister, and he felt his resolve crack once again. How could he call himself a Captain of the Guard and a big brother when he had been powerless to protect his little sister? All he could really do was lean down and nuzzle her while whispering soothing words. Glancing up to his wife, he let his eyes ask the questions he was too afraid to speak.

Giving a small shake of her head, she glanced over at Spike who had yet to leave Twilight alone after Princes Luna had been exposed. Even if he had been forced to leave even for a moment, he would always make sure that either Shining Armor or Princes Cadance, or preferably both, would remain behind. Shining understood the signals she sent him, even if they were ones he did not want to know.

'No, no change yet. I'm sorry Shiny, but there is only so much we can do right now, and Spike is probably the one who can do the most at the moment.'

'I know Cady, but I just feel so powerless here. Even if I can keep them out of the city, I can't keep them out of Twily's mind. Isn't there anything else we can do?'

'I'm afraid not; or at least, not right now . We'll need more time to truly heal her mind; time when we are not worrying about being besieged. But don't tell Spike that. His hopes are frail enough as it is. If we tell him the truth right now...'

"Can the two of you cut that out?" the small dragon chimed in, "It's kind of creepy watching you gesture like you're playing charades, and I was left out."

Cadance blushed lightly while Shining gave a small chuckle, and leaned over to tousle Spike's head ridges. "Sorry about that squirt, it's kind of a married thing."

"Yeah, yeah. I appreciate the thought Armor, but you guys don't have to try and hide it from me. She's not doing any better, and you can't do anything until Luna is dealt with."

Cadance's blush deepened as she realized that she had completely underestimated the hatchling. "I am sorry Spike. After this is over, I will personally oversee Twilights rehabilitation. We will not be going home until she is fully healed."

"Thanks Princess," Spike said as he gripped Twilight's hoof in his claws, "from both of us."

Cadance nodded back towards the window and Shining followed her lead as they both returned to viewing the city. "So, that's Twilight's condition on hold for now. How are you holding up?"

"I'll be just fine Cady. This isn't like that time with the Changelings. Then I had already kept the shield going for weeks and Chrysalis had a few days to leech my powers to bolster her own." Shining leaned against his wife and felt his heart start to synchronize with hers. "This time, I am still at full strength, and if anything goes wrong I have you to help back me up."

Cadance nuzzled her husband and let a sigh escape her. "Just don't push yourself too hard Shiny. Don't feel like you have to prove anything either after Chrysalis or Sombra. If you get too tired, let me know and I can take over the shield for a bit. Remember that a Pony needs their rest."

"I certainly agree Cousin," Blueblood called out as he entered the Bed Chamber, "A good night's sleep is essential to the start of a good day."

Shining Armor felt himself stiffen up as he turned to face the interloper, "And you seem to be especially well rested Prince."

"Yes, ear plugs are such a benefit at times like these. I have an extra pair if you wish to try them."

A snarl threatened to break Shining's composure, but he kept his face set in the professional neutrality of a soldier. "I appreciate the offer, but I do not think ignoring the sounds outside will allow me any additional rest. We have reports that the bulk of Luna's forces will be arriving just before dawn; or at least, when dawn would be expected."

"Yes, I am curious to see what it is that my aunt intends," Blueblood replied with a small smile. "Most curious indeed."

A light knock at the door frame grabbed Shining's attention before he could respond. "Enter," he loudly called out.

A Guardspony walked in and saluted smartly, saying, "My Lords, I bring news from the Gates."

"Yes, what is it then," Blueblood said before Shining could even finish returning the salute.

"Sir, we have a sighting of a large formation working its way up the mountain. While it is too far out for much detail, the personal carriage of Princess Celestia is believed to be at the front."

"Very well Sergeant," Shining replied while they absorbed this information, "return to your post. I shall be along shortly to oversee the defenses."

"I am afraid I cannot allow that my good captain," Blueblood said before the Guardpony could leave, "you are much too valuable to risk on the front lines right now."

"And what would you have me do then?" Shining growled out as his mask of professionalism slipped.

"I would have you remain here and focus on your shield," Blueblood replied with a hint of steel in his voice. He made a small gesture behind Shining as his voice softened, "and I would have you remain close to your sister. She will be needing your support when she awakens. Even in trying times such as this, family is all that we have sometimes. Worry not though. I shall go to the gates and attend to my own family issues."

"As you command Prince," Shining said with a salute.

Blueblood turned around and headed out without bothering to return the salute, a smile on his face now that his back was turned. "Oh do not worry about it my good captain, this will all be over soon."

***********

Luna let her gaze roam over the landscape in front of her as she rode her sister's carriage. She did not truly expect to encounter any surprises outside of Canterlot but it never hurt to be careful. Satisfied that everything seemed to be in order, she now turned and contemplated the forces behind her. Virtually all of her available ponies were lined up on the tracks down the mountain, minus some select teams of Pegasi providing air cover. While it may have been more practical to have landed the entire force outside of the shield wall, she was after the more primal fear of seeing your enemy approaching unchallenged. Joining her on the carriage were the three fillies who had so far been very useful, surrounded by a small pile of her viewing orbs. Most of the orbs glowed faintly with various messages and the fillies were doing a superb job of keeping track of the information flowing out. The link they shared was proving most useful as a message sorter. Her mood darkened slightly as she saw her sister at the rear of the carriage, still asleep due to the effects of the drug, but bound in heavy chains nonetheless.

Celestia was being attended by both Fluttershy and Rarity, the two of them fussed over her in their attempts to keep her both sedated and comfortable. The other wielders of harmony had elected to walk up the mountain, or fly up in Rainbow Dash's case. And even though they all had an air of purpose around them, they could not completely hide the worry in their hearts. Even Pinky Pie's smiles were just a bit tighter than usual and her hops seemed a tad more energetic than they needed to be.

As she noticed the glow from her orbs dim for a moment, Luna turned her attention back to the fillies. "What news of the others?"

Sweetie Belle glanced up as Apple Bloom and Scootaloo both rubbed their temples, "Well, the Manehattan and Fillydelphia groups are on their way, but they don't expect to make it here before nightfall. Appleloosa should be here sometime tomorrow morning. Half of the Cloudsdale group is holding the Weather Factory as it churns out our storm clouds while the rest bring them in. They should be here in about..." a low rumble of thunder caused her to look up, "now actually. Oh, and Braeburn managed to speak to Chief Thunderhooves."

"And what was the Buffaloes response?"

"He said that this was a Pony matter and that they would not get involved. Something about not wanting to upset a balance or something?"

Luna let out a sigh and shook her head at this. "Fools. If we fail then there will be no more balance. Equestria will burn, and they will burn along with us." Setting her gaze forward once again, she asked, "Are you two ready to fulfill your roles?"

Scootaloo looked up at this. "Yeah, I'm ready. If Sweetie Belle can get me high enough, then making the tower shouldn't be a problem."

"Oh I can get you high enough Scoots. Here, outside of the forest; it will be a cinch." Sweetie Belle replied back.

Luna let out a small smile as she glanced up at the storm clouds which now rumbled overhead. "Very good. Now go and prepare, for we are nearly there." With a grin, Sweetie Belle reached out and grabbed a hold of Scootaloo, then they both disappeared in a small burst of magic, leaving Apple Bloom behind with a small frown on her face. "Worry not young one. They shall be fine and you have your own role to play."

"I know, but it just feels like it ain't all that much. Not anything important like what they'll be doin'."

Luna turned around and lowered herself to look Apple Bloom in the eyes. "My dear filly, you have one of the most important jobs of all. A battle is won or lost on the understanding the enemy, and you will be able to tell me what they are doing. Because of you and your friends, I can honestly say that I have no doubt about the outcome of today."

"Really?" Apple Bloom asked as her face started to lighten up.

"Truly. And I know that I can depend on you to keep me informed." Luna said as she raised herself up once more.

"Oh, and we heard from one of your Night Ponies, he said to tell you that the 'chink in the shield is right were you thought it would be.' If that makes sense?"

Luna gave into a sudden urge and reached out to ruffle the young filly's mane. "It makes perfect sense to me young one. And it was most expected." Getting a small stutter out of the filly, Luna glanced up towards Fluttershy and Rarity with a more solemn expression. "I am afraid that we can wait no longer. We must prepare my sister for our arrival."

"Are you sure we have to do it? I mean, really sure?" Fluttershy asked glancing up with a pleading look, "It just seems cruel."

"Yes dear Fluttershy, I am sure," Luna answered with a small sigh, "Even though I regret the actions we are taking, I will not let that sway me from my promise." Luna's horn started to glow as she loosened the chains around her sister and began to lift her upright. "By the end of this day, our enemies will have fallen and Canterlot will be wholly ours once again. I shall ask for Celesita's forgiveness after this is over, but not before. Now, assist me with her bindings; there is no reason for her to be in more discomfort than necessary."

The two friends gave a small nod as they turned and began to adjust the chains around Celestia, making sure she was held securely and adding padding where they were able. Luna turned to face forward once more and let a fierce smile spread over her face as she gazed upon the gates of Canterlot. 'You have tried your hooves at a very dangerous game my nephew. Against Celestia, you might have survived the reprisal. Against me, you either live or you die. And now is the time for your judgment.'

********

As he reached the top of the city wall, Blueblood paused to survey the ranks arranged there. He allowed himself a small smirk seeing them all arrayed in glistening armor with their spears held at the ready; they looked just like the tough soldiers they pretended to be, if one ignored how they still cringed every time one of Luna's shadows slammed into the shielding with a screech. Making his way over towards the main gates he let his smirk slide into a scowl remembering how not even twelve hours ago, they and their fellows had been frightened into a terrified herd of foals. 'They were defeated soundly, neigh, routed without even attempting to fight! Even after my brilliant performance to boost their morale, they fled with their tails between their legs like frightened fillies. And that incompetent Commander? He even had the gall to disobey my blatant orders! If I had the time, I would have him court-martialed for cowardice, insubordination, and treason!'

Reaching the command post located over the main gates, Blueblood schooled his features back into their natural elegance and looked out towards the approaching column. Since they were still too far out to discern any real details, he let his gaze wonder towards his subordinates. He let his lips curl into a proper sneer as he realized that the recent focus of his thoughts was standing alongside him. "And just what are you doing here, Commander?"

"Sire," the unicorn saluted him with stiff precision, "my company and I wish to redeem ourselves for our failures. To the last pony, we have all volunteered to guard the gates with our lives."

"Oh really?" Blueblood asked with a look of distain, completely ignoring the salute, "I seem to recall you pleading something similar to me when you last departed. Why should I believe you now after you have already proven how worthless your vows are?"

The unicorn finally lowered his hoof so he could gesture at the swarming shapes outside the shield. "Sire, I ask you what could we have done against that? Against normal flesh and blood, we were prepared to retrieve the Princess even if we all died in the attempt. These... these wraiths caught us unawares and would have slaughtered us were we stood if we had not fallen back." He let his hoof return to the ground and assumed a rigid attention stance. "Here, we stand a chance. Here, we will gladly sacrifice ourselves if need be. There, we would have been only so much blood on the ground."

Blueblood left him like that while he finished surveying the assembled defenders. Besides the forces on the walls, the catapults on the ground had finished loading their shot and sat ready to unleash upon their enemies. He also spied the Pegasi Corp spread out among the roof tops, and lead by the Wonderbolts, they stood ready to defend their skies. Judging that Luna had finally come close enough to discern more details of her forces, he finally let the Commander fully out of his gaze and looked over the wall once more. "If I were you, Commander, I would endeavor to find a way to redeem myself here, even at the cost of my life. For if you have not, and if you are still alive, I shall personally oversee your Inquiry. And I assure you, I will not be forgiving."

The Guardspony nearly paled at the threat but managed to keep his composure. "I understand, Sire."

"Make sure that you do," the Prince replied as he attempted to discern what he was seeing. He could barely make out the form of Celestia's personal chariot near the head of the approaching forces. And unless he was mistaken, that was aunt Luna riding the front with a number of shapes behind her. But what was the splash of color she had done to the royal sun burst in the rear?

"Tirek take her! Luna shall pay for this!" the Commander cursed beside him.

Thanks in part to the venom in his tone, Blueblood finally realized what he was seeing. He could now make out Celestia poised at the rear of the chariot, suspended by chains in a mockery of when she raises the sun for the Solstice. Her forelegs were held straight up alongside her head, which was also pointed skyward; her wings were at a full spread; her rear legs were suspended off the floor; and her mane and tail hung lifeless around her, disheveled and splayed in clumps and tangles. Thinking it over, Blueblood felt a small smile on his lips. 'Well played aunty. Well played indeed.'

As the horde approached the extreme range of the defenders, they began to fill out and slowly started to fill the entire width of the cliffside. The swarming wraiths also started to quiet down with only the occasional hiss coming from them. Judging that he would not have to strain himself too much, Blueblood charged a simple amplification spell and calmly called out, "I welcome you all to the fair city of Canterlot. I would like to thank you for bringing our Princess home to us, and we would greatly appreciate it if you would return her without any further inconvenience. If you do, then we may be able to overlook some of the more recent... incidents which have occurred. I will personally guarantee the safety of any pony who wishes to surrender themselves to the mercy of the Sun. All others shall not be treated as... gently."

As the echo rebounded from the cliffs, he noticed the Commander giving him a disbelieving look, to which he replied with a wink. Eventually, he spied a single pony leaving the chariot and came further forward than the rest of the force. He leaned slightly forward, trying to get a better look at this apparent spokespony. It was hard to be certain from this distance, but it looked to be a white coated mare with an indigo mane... No it couldn't be.

"Is that really you there, Prince Blueblood?" Yes, it was her he realized as he recoiled in disgust while Rarity's amplified voice swept the wall. "I must say that I am impressed with what you managed to do here. Why, I could almost commend you."

Steeling himself, he decided that he would just have to handle her as best he could. "Do not be so surprised little trollop. You face the elite forces of Canterlot itself and it is our sacred duty to defend our homes."

"Oh, I would expect nothing less from the actual Guards. It was actually you, yourself to which I was referring. I was simply surprised that you decided to actually come and oversee this personally. I had thought that you would be cowering under your bed, dreading the thought of getting your hooves dirty on the way down the street. Now be a dear and go fetch Shining Armor for us, we would prefer to negotiate with somepony whose military experience has not been limited to soldiers made from tin."

He felt his eye beginning to twitch. "I am afraid the good Captain is currently indisposed maintaining the shield while I am in command of the guard. So if you have something to say, you will say it to me, you puffed up marshmallow."

"Oh dear, how ever did that happen? Did something happen to the Princess's Commander? Even though he nearly got his command slaughtered, I cannot imagine him doing any worse than you. Tell me, have you sacrificed any pony to defend you against those horrid cakes yet? Or have you actually learned how to dodge?"

His teeth were grinding now as he heard some of the Guardponies starting to snicker. "Do you actually have a message to deliver, or are you just going to try and assassinate my character, you washed up tart?"

"Oh I do have a message for you to deliver. We demand that the shield around the city be lowered and the immediate surrender of all military forces. They are all to gather on the Royal Parade grounds to await a personal inspection from Princess Luna. As they are assembling, we shall be securing the city and will not tolerate any interference. We will also be taking personal custody of Twilight Sparkle. Oh, and one last thing darling, you shall surrender yourself directly to Princess Luna to answer for your crimes of high treason against the Diarchy of Equestria. Did you get all of that, or should I say it again so you can take notes? I can go slower if you like? No? Then be a good little colt and run that along to somepony who can give us a proper response."

Bloublood was positively seething by now, but he managed to keep his voice at a level tone. "If you will give us just a moment," and turned towards the Commander. "I said you would need to find a way to redeem yourself; well here it is. I want that mare dead on the ground, right now. Do you understand me?"

"Perfectly Sire," the Unicorn answered as he turned towards the other Guardponies standing by. "I want a full spread with the spears, maximum power and minimum angle. Do not give her time to dodge."

As the gathered Unicorns encased their spears in their auras, Blueblood turned back towards the field. "It will just be another moment dear."

"Oh that is quite all right darling," Rarity replied as she idly inspected a hoof and flicked some dust off of it, "although, if I may make a suggestion..."

A full dozen spears suddenly launched from the city wall and passed cleanly through the city shield. They were grouped in such a way that no pony would be able to clear all of them without taking at least some damage. But Rarity just sat still as they landed all around her, encased the blue glow of her magic.

"If you are going to verbally plot my demise, you might want to consider silencing your amplification spell. Thank you for the warning by the way."

"Oh you are most gracious," Blueblood growled out as he dispelled it and turned again, "Why are the catapults just standing by? Fire them now! I want nothing left of her but a smear on the field!"

Turning towards the siege defenses below, the Commander waved down the necessary instructions and soon had three large boulders sailing through the air. They very well could have given Rarity a dreadful migraine, except for the fact that dozens of spell bolts from within the ranks, and from Luna herself, obliterated them all as they cleared the shielding. Creating a fine shower of dust which slowly drifted over everything.

Brushing several specks of dust off of her shoulder, Rarity called out "While it is rather obvious that you truly have no idea what you are doing, should I take it that you are refusing the terms of surrender? We can wait a while longer if you need us to."

Blueblood shoot the Commander a look which promised pain in his immediate future and charged up the spell again with a sigh. "We most certainly refuse to surrender, so I ask you what are you going to do now? Continue to try and kill me by raising my blood pressure? Because it is obvious that while we will have trouble harming you, you cannot even scratch us. Do you want us to spot you a few salvoes to confirm it? You shall find that our shield is extremely durable."

"Do not worry yourself on our account, will just let ourselves in and be about our business. Although it would be most generous of you all if you would start to assemble yourselves like we requested. It would greatly cut down on the amount of bruising, broken limbs, and hurt feelings if you did."

Blueblood could not help the snort of laughter that escaped him at the sheer arrogance Rarity kept on display. "Oh I would love to see how you plan to circumvent the most advanced shield spell in all of Equestria! Tell you what, I will still spot you that attempt. We won't throw so much as a pebble while you try. It will be worth it to see you strain for your own failures!"

"It would be our pleasure." Rarity called out as she turned back towards the assembled forces. "You heard him girls! Let's show him what we can do."

Blueblood almost felt his jaw hit the rampart as only four other ponies, none of which were even Unicorns, advanced towards the shield wall, well four ponies and his aunt Luna who was several yards behind them. As they started to assemble themselves into some sort of formation the Commander leaned in and pointed towards the assembled mares, "Are you sure this is wise Sire? Those are the Wielders of Harmony, and they all have their respective Elements."

"Oh shut it, we have absolutely nothing to worry about. First off, as a weapon the Elements only work on living things, they would not even touch the shield. And even if it could, they are short a complete set. Do not forget that the Wielder of Magic is recovering in the castle, so they could not use them even if they wanted to."

Rarity looked up at Blueblood with a smug smile that he found slightly disconcerting, even after his speech. "Is it just pure arrogance or are you actually dim witted enough that you forgot about your voice twice in the same conversation?"

"And why should I bother? It is obvious that you are bluffing like I said. The Elements are useless to you right now."

"Who said anything about using the Elements?"

The mares had assembled themselves with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy hovering several feet up and apart from each other, while Applejack and Pinky Pie flanked Rarity by several feet on each side, with all five of them forming an elongated trapezoid. As Blueblood watched in puzzlement, each mare placed a single hoof against the shield and began to push. Nothing happened for a moment, but just as he was about to throw about another barb their way their hooves actually started moving though the shield! Ever so slowly the five made their way into the shield, and when their chests made contact the space between them all started to distort and tear from the disrupted energies. It was at one of these tears which Luna fired a single concentrated burst of magic which completely shredded the warped region, which quickly spread to the rest of the shield as it crumbled like breaking glass.

Rarity looked back up at Blueblood with a satisfied smirk, "Did I not say you were overconfident?" she calmly stated as the Pegasi behind her launched into the air under the cover hundreds of Unicorn spell bolts.

As he dropped to the floor behind the battlements, Blueblood realized one of his errors. Luna's forces had never been prepared for the Siege of Canterlot; instead, they had immediately launched into the Battle for Canterlot.

Author's Note

Well, that took a lot longer than I would have liked. I seriously thought I could keep my record of a three month wait unbroken, but I then immediately take four months to complete the this one. Ug. At least the next one will be fairly straight forward, it is mostly action and I already have the majority of it planned out, now I just need to tie it together and actually write it. I make no promises on the time frame, but I will try to keep it to lessen than this time.

Anyways, many thanks go to Wrabbit this time around. I have been reading his stuff for awhile now, and he graciously assisted me as a guest Beta Reader for this chapter. He is even going to let me steal some of his ideas for some future chapters, so everyone give him a big THANKS for being such a great help.

And as all ways: to those of you how read my work and don't say anything, thanks for checking my stuff out; to those of you who actually leave comments, either positive or negative, Thank You for taking the time to let me know what to either keep doing or to improve. It is you guys who make doing stuff like this worthwhile.

Later!

The Battle Begins

First off, let me apologize for the tardiness of this chapter. I could go on and on about writers block, different difficulties in life, or a host of other excuses; but the truth is that I lost the will to continue this for a time, even though I had written half of it six months prior. However, it never truly left my mind, and I was constantly trying to work up the motivation to finish it. And even if I can only got out two chapters a year, I WILL be finishing this story. For those of you who have stuck with me for all of this, you have my sincere gratitude, and for those who leave over the long wait times, I can completely understand.

Now enough sappiness, let's get to the story!

******

As she banked through the lightning from above, Rainbow Dash spared a quick glance at the storm clouds just over her head.

'These winds would make for some wicked stunts,' she thought to herself as she dodged another spell bolt from below, 'Too bad they won't give me the chance to actually try anything.'

Returning her attention to the ground, Rainbow Dash looked over the battle raging below. The majority of Luna's force remained bunched up behind their front line Unicorn casters, the Earth Pony teams where patently waiting for the gates to be breached while the Unicorns kept up a steady stream of spells slamming into the cities battlements, ice spells seemed to be a favorite since it could cover the walls spell slits. Various Pegasi squads tried to harass the Canterlotian forces behind the battlements by dropping various blades or spell shards on top of the defenders heads, and trying to avoid their counter fire. She could just make out the colors of her friends and Luna as they remained pressed against the base of the walls while Luna and Rarity worked on breaching the gates magical defenses. Which the Royal Guards were doing their best to make an impossible task.

The companies behind the walls seemed to be split on trying to contain the damage from the offensive spells, mostly by melting the ice from their spell slits, while the rest concentrated on their own spell slinging. And unfortunately, they were not firing with the same restraint as Luna's force. Fire balls, lightening, and explosions rippled across defensive shielding in front of the lines at regular intervals.

Seeing a fresh stream of fire launch from above the city gates, Rainbow Dash saw Fluttershy cringe back and press even harder against the walls behind her as Pinkie gently offered her some marshmallows warmed by the passing stream. Applejack seemed to be fidgeting again as she looked towards the gates at which Luna and Rarity continued to labor. Luna had assured them that the gates would not refuse one of their mistresses for long, except for the fact that the Unicorns on the other side were constantly reinforcing the warding on them.

Dash did feel a little guiltily about flying off for a bit, but she had been getting restless and needed to stretch her wings for a bit. Also, there was the fact that she had wanted to see if... A faint flash above interrupted her thoughts as she saw two small shapes appear. An orange speck started to streak away from the grayish one which promptly disappeared in another faint flash. Rainbow Dash kept one eye on the orange speck as it made its way towards the Royal Palace at an ever increasingly sharp angle.

'Come on squirt, I know you can make it... BULLS EYE!' Dash barely restrained the urge to hoof pump as she saw the speck grab onto a flag pole above the Royal Apartments. It hung there for a small while and then started to make its way down towards the roof tops. She was so elated to see the plan working so perfectly that she almost missed the magical energy racing up towards to her from below... almost. Even as she rolled away from the stream, she felt the enchantments in her Lunar armor activate and brush off a slight chill which permeated the spell. Returning her full attention back towards the city battlements, she could make out a Unicorn caster preparing another blast as they locked eyes with each other.

"Oh, so you want to play hard ball with me, do ya?" Dash called out as she reached into the storage space built into her chest plate. "Time to show you what happens when you mess with the best." Griping a gem enchanted spell shard in each of her hoofs, Dash furiously beat her wings into a power dive as she weaved through spell fire from below and lightening from above. Careful to keep her speed below Rainboom levels, Dash kept her gaze locked onto her target as she gently released her first spell shard before she cocked her other hoof back and flung the second one forward before shooting off towards the side. The Unicorn below her easily saw her throw and promptly fired a blast which detonated the shard in a fiery blast. As his eyes started to track Rainbow Dash once more, he failed to see the first shard fall through the explosion and shatter at his hooves. Looking down, he saw a dark mist which promptly coiled around his body and solidified into a solid block of ice.

"Hahaha," Dash snickered as she angled back towards her friends, "Dude, you really needed to chill out."

Rarity glanced over as Dash pressed against the base of the wall. "Really Rainbow Dash?" she asked with a disproving look as her horn continued to glow brightly. "I wish you would take things a bit more seriously. We do happen to be fighting for Twilight, and our own lives, here."

"Oh relax Rare's, it's not like I was in any real trouble," Rainbow replied while buffing a hoof against her armor. "He may have been good, but it's not like he could have actually hit me."

Rarity raised an eyebrow at this, and then pointedly looked towards Dash's shoulder. Glancing down, Rainbow noticed a small layer of ice crystals running down the side of her chest piece and gave out a low whistle. "Well would you look at that. Guess he was a bit better than I thought, but still nowhere near good enough." As she started to break the ice away, Dash looked up a saw Rarity still looking at her. "What? I'm perfectly fine. Besides, don't you have to concentrate on that gate or something?"

"Not really," Rarity replied with a glance towards Luna, who was facing the gates head on as her horn shined with a fierce light. "It is not like I have the skill to unlock these gates myself. I am merely supplying the energy required to keep the locks open, it is the Princess who is really doing all of the work. But never mind that, did you see if they succeeded?"

"Yeah," Dash said as she finished cleaning up, "you should have seen them Rarity. Sweetie popped them up so high that no pony could have seen them from the walls. And while Scoots almost overshot the tower, she managed to snag this flag pole at the last instant and made her way down. I'm telling you, it was awesome! And once Apple Bloom joins us, we'll have our ears planted right on the Royal balcony."

"This is most satisfying news," Luna said as her horn dimmed to a soft glow, "It is good to hear that at least something's are going as they should."

"Oh do tell," Rarity said as she returned her attention to the city gates, "Have you been refused entry after all?"

"In a manner of speaking," Luna replied in a disgruntled huff, "The warding on the gates has been breached, but the Guards have also secured a brace across the entry and I find myself unable to dislodge it."

"What are you talking about?" Rainbow Dash said as she floated up into Luna's face, "You mean to tell me that you can't move a simple block of wood when you push the Moon around twice a day? You have got to be joking!"

Luna sighed and started to rub her head. "Since you are not versed in magic, let me explain something's to you. First off, I do not 'push the Moon around,' I guide and nudge it along its course. Except for a burst of power at the beginning and end of its journey, I expend very little actual energy. And as for the simple block of wood, this is an enchanted piece of an intricate arcane defense designed to impede spell-casters from gaining entry. Not to mention there are at least a dozen Unicorns over there who are shielding it from my magic, and that I am trying to move something that I cannot even see."

"So are ya saying that ya can't even bust it down?" Applejack called out from her side of the gate.

"No, I actually could demolish the gate now and force my way through. However, doing so would cause serious harm to the defenders on the other side, and I promised my sister to try and keep the causalities to a minimum."

"So whatcha going to do then? Knock and ask if they'll let you in now all polite like?"

"Hardly," Luna replied as she glanced up at the city walls above them, "Rainbow Dash, you will need to reach the other side and then disable or distract the casters long enough to breach the gate."

"Ah ya! Time to show them what the Dash can do!"

"Now hold on there sugarcube," Applejack cried out as she grabbed hold of Dash's tail to keep her on the ground, "Why does Dash have to go alone? Can't we get some other Pegisi to help her?"

"Oh oh oh!" Pinky exclaimed as she waved her hoof around, "I got this one!" Turning to face her fellow Earth Pony, she took a deep breath before starting, "You see Applejack, there are almost a gazillion guardsponies up there with all kinds of nasty spells and pointy objects like spears and arrow bolts. So, normally a group a Pegisi wouldn't be able to fly over them together since they would be shot down and turned into some really messy pincushions, and a lone Pegisus wouldn't be very effective since they couldn't do much on their own before they were caught by everypony else. However, since we only need Dashie to be a distraction as we bust through here, we'll be able to help her out in no time and keep her from becoming a Splashy instead."

Her eyes went a bit crossed as Applejack processed what Pinkie had said. "Well, I guess that makes some sense," she muttered as she let go of Dash's tail and looked her in the eyes, "Now you listen here RD, don't ya go takin' any more risks than ya have to. Get in there, take them down real quick like, and then wait for us to come in and help. Don't fret about tryin' to prove how awesome ya are and wind up getting yourself killed, ya hear?"

"Don't you worry AJ," Rainbow said as she crouched down into a launching stance, "Just get ready knock on those doors really loud, because I'll have them ready for you in ten seconds flat." And with that assurance Rainbow Dash launched herself up and over the gatehouse.

********

"They are persistent, I'll give them that," the Guard Commander commented as he watched his prince hide behind a battlement.

"Persistent or not," Blueblood flinched as an icy wind gusted from several yards away, "they should be entirely outclassed. So tell me, my good Commander, why are you just sitting there and not doing something about this!"

The Guardspony gave a small sigh as he looked through the ice covered spell slit. "As I mentioned earlier, my Lord, there is precious little we can do at this moment. For now, the mechanics of a siege work in our favor since they do not have nearly enough troops to contain us indefinitely, let alone occupy the city. Once their Unicorns have exhausted themselves, we will be in a better position to sortie beyond the walls and engage them directly. So unless they can somehow breach our fortifications, we will crush them before too long. Do not worry yourself so much, my Lord, we are safe enough as it is."

"Oh really?" Blueblood questioned as a pair of medics carried a partially frozen Guardpony past them. The Unicorn's legs were completely encased in ice and his teeth chattered as the medics tried to console him with promises of a warm thawing spell and hot soup.

The Commander gave a small nod towards the departing ponies, "There will always be casualties in an engagement, even a successful one. Come and see for yourself how little their lines have advanced since they began their barrage," he said with a sweeping motion towards the spell slit.

Blueblood gave a small huff as he started to turn towards the blocked opening. "Well, if you are certain of our safety, I suppose a quick peak would not be..." he never got to finish his sentence as he suddenly found himself face to face with a fast moving Pegasus mare, and as his eye tracked her path upwards he noticed several things. First was that she had one of the most unruly manes he had ever seen, which also contained every color of the rainbow, poking out from beneath her dark helmet. Second was the sparkling necklace containing a ruby red lightning bolt. Third was her expression which initially showed surprise which quickly morphed to recognition and then to pleasure crossed with a vindictive smirk. Lastly was the fact that even before she had cleared the battlements, she had started to bring her rear legs up and had them cocked forward by the time she reached his head.

The Commander had seen this all as well, but found himself unable to react before the mare had blown past him, and had delivered a solid whack against the back of the princes skull. This had the expected result of driving said skull forward into the ice covering the safe opening, which resounded with a solid thwack and snapping as cracks snaked away from the face forcibly implanted into its surface.

********

As she arched her way towards the ground behind the gates, Rainbow Dash could help but snicker to herself. 'Hate to steal one of Pinkies lines, but Best Expression Ever!'

********

The shocked Guard Commander lost precious seconds to indecision between chasing down fleeting Pegasus and concern over his sworn prince. The concern quickly won however, and he reach over to slowly peel the noble away from the ice wall. "My Lord? Are you alright?"

Blueblood looked at him in a daze for several seconds as his brain tried to process what had just happened to it. Once it finished reconstructing the events, he noticed the cracks in the ice had already been imprinted with a reddish outline of his face. He raised a hoof up to his face as he tried to staunch the blood he felt from his nose. "Commander, I want that mares head on my wall, her hide for a blanket, and her feathers for my pillow. And I want them NOW!"

The Commander gave quick salute before he ran towards the stairs in pursuit of the princes fury. Behind him he heard Blueblood hollering for a medic.

********

Five...

Juke left, drop under the spell fire, rush forward, leg sweep, help introduce face to floor.

Four...

Catapult over the body, spin in midair to throw off aim, land between the two, show why two heads cannot be in the same space.

Two...

Cartwheel backwards, pivot away from hoof strikes, redirect, slip inside their guard, quick strikes to chest to break balance, uppercut to chin.

One...

Cocky smile, dash forward during hesitation, wrap foreleg around throat, pivot on axis, trap head between both legs, maintain hold until consciousness is lost.

Zero...

"Ah feathers," Rainbow Dash groaned as she continued to struggle with the Unicorn, "Will you just pass out already! You made me go over my time!" Leaning forward, she watched as the guard continued to thrash about until his eyes rolled back into his skull and he finally went limp. She held the choke for a few more seconds just to make sure, and then quickly released him and felt for the pulse to return. "OK tough guy. You were good, but you were also totally outclassed here."

She cast a quick glance amongst the groaning Unicorns who were spread out along the gateway. "Nine, ten, eleven? Huh, she must have underestimated these guys. HEY! PRINCESS! THE COAST IS CLEAR! TIME TO GET TO WORK AND GET EVERYPONY ELSE CAUGHT UP TO ME!"

She heard a muffled reply through the enchanted wood and was just about to relax for a second when something felt off. Normally she would had put it down as a slight post fight letdown, but after spending so much time with Twilight, she knew it was something else. A spell which was being super charged past all sane reason, and one which was especially close by.

Thinking quick on her hoofs was always one of her specialties, so Dash let hers drop out from under her and gave a quick flap to push herself down. Even with the assist, the lightening still singed her mane and she barely avoided the subsequent strikes by rolling along the ground and jumping into a light hover. Twisting around, she found herself locking eyes with that idiotic Commander. "Hey! What's your problem! That could have seriously killed me!"

"That was the general intention," he said as the surprise faded from his eyes and was replaced by a look of cold hatred while his horn started to overcharge again, sending out small arcs of electricity, "And I still plan on seeing it through."

Rainbow just had to facehoof at that. "Dude, seriously? You maybe had a chance with that first strike. But electricity? Now? No way," Dash said as she tapped her chest plate, "I mean, hello? Enchanted armor, lightning fast reflexes, and let's not forget a Pegasi's natural resistance to lightning."

"That all may be true," he said as he launched a bolt, which Dash nimbly avoided, and blasted a chunk out of the passage way, "But if so, why are you still dodging? Why don't we test and see if you really are as lightning proof as you think."

"Because even if it doesn't take me out, it'll still sting moron." She quickly darted forward, but the Commander blocked her strikes with his own hoofs and forced her back with several jabs followed by arcane bolts. She had to give a small snicker as she found herself back to where she started. "Finally looks like I've found a challenge. A Unicorn who can fight as well as cast."

"Those who forgo their martial skills for the pure arcane shall leave a vast hole in their defenses," he seemed to quote, "And you shall find that I have no such holes." And then he surprised Dash by leaping forward himself and engaged her in magically enhanced hoofticuffs which she found herself hard pressed to match.

Foreleg strikes, rear bucks, wing chops, he was able to counter all of them. Her advantage from extra appendages were negated by his magical prowess. Her natural advantage of flight was not allowed due to the nature of the passageway. And her techniques were blunted by her wish to only incapacitate, while his were heightened by rage and a desire to kill. Given these factors, and the fact that he had clearly spent most of his adult years practicing for something just like this, Rainbow was surprised she lasted as long as she did. Oh, she got a few jabs in here and there, she even managed to split his lips with one really solid punch, but his response was a slick maneuver were he grabbed her hoof, spun around, and launched her over his shoulder and into the wall. She was so dazed from the impact that she barely had time to ground herself before his lightning struck her full force. She felt her armors enchantments kick in on full overdrive, while her natural magic also shunted whatever it could. Even with both of these working in tandem, it was only just enough to keep her from passing out. As it was, she was left twitching on the ground as the excess electricity bled out of her system, completely vulnerable to any follow up attacks. As she lay there though, she could finally see a bluish aura surrounding the crossbar behind the commander as he slowly advanced on her, and despite her situation she felt herself smile.

"I fail to see what is so funny," he said as he advanced and placed a hoof against her throat, "Do you have any last words before I send you to Tartarus, you heretic?"

"Yeah. Do you happen to have any aspirin on you?" she asked, and gave a slight chuckle at his confused expression. "The thing is, you're going to really need it when you wake up."

Now you will have to give the commander some credit, he was still trying to figure out what Dash meant, but he only had a few seconds before an orange pair of hooves collided with the back of his helmet. Even then, he did not have time to register that fact before he was flying across the floor, slammed against the far wall, and collapsed in a boneless heap. He was out before he even hit the ground.

"Ya doin' alright done there, sugar cube?"

Dash took the offered hoof and pulled herself back upright. She could still feel her muscles twitching a bit, but not enough to keep her down. "Thanks, AJ. Although your timing could have been a bit better." Looking past her friend she saw the princess enter and fixed her with a smirk. "Took you long enough."

Luna simply walked past them and approached the fallen commander. "Intricate arcane defense, remember?" She reached her hoof down and felt his neck. Giving a satisfied nod, she levitated him and the rest of the fallen Unicorns into more comfortable positions out of the main passage way. As she strode back towards the partially open gates, she gave them both a small smile. "I must commend you both. So far, we have yet to actually kill anypony, and my sisters healing spell shall see to these ones in due time. But I fear we are nearing the end of our luck."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Dash asked as she saw the rest of her friends hurry through the partially open doors and began to pull them open. "We're in now. Aren't things supposed to start getting easier?"

"Easier? I am afraid not. Although things will be simpler, now that their defenses are broken," Luna said as the gates were opened wide. She heard her forces give a wild yell as they began to charge towards the portal, and Unicorns from both sides increased their spell firings in order impede each other. She turned back towards Rainbow Dash and her face was pulled taunt in a grimace of pain. "This is the time when things start to get, messy."

Author's Note

Put my little spiel at the top this time. I will just say again, sorry for the wait. Hopefully I can get the next one out faster, but I make no promises. However, comments and reviews help to fuel my muse, so please leave something if you can. Love it, hate it, please just let me know!