Watchmare

The tension in Equestria showed no signs of easing. Ponies took to the streets, demanding answers from Twilight and her friends about the incident. Each day, news of protests and fiery speeches flooded social media. Posters against Twilight and the other five had become commonplace. In Ponyville, both unionists and ordinary citizens had lost faith in the Elements of Harmony. However, not everyone had turned against them; some ponies, though silent, still believed in them, and the investigation into the video was underway.

"We need more proof that the video was tampered with. Something concrete that no one can deny," Twilight said, pacing back and forth, her face showing exhaustion.

Applejack leaned over the table, looking at the scattered papers. "Sugarcube, we might need more than proof. We might need allies."

"But who would still trust us? Starlight and Dark have ruined our reputation," Rainbow Dash replied, flapping her wings impatiently.

Fluttershy, who had been sitting quietly in the corner, finally spoke, her soft voice cutting through the tension. "Maybe it’s not about who trusts us, but about who wants the truth as much as we do."

Twilight stopped, looking at Fluttershy. Her words echoed in Twilight’s mind. "You’re right, Fluttershy. We need to find ponies who seek the truth. But where?"

Before they could discuss further, Spike burst into the room, clutching a letter. "Twilight, this just arrived. It looks… official."

Twilight took the letter and quickly opened it. Her wings lifted as she read its contents:

Princess Twilight Sparkle, due to growing concerns about the current situation in Equestria, your presence is requested at the Canterlot Palace for a special hearing with the Two Sisters and international leaders. Date: December 20th. Time: 10 AM. Signed: Royal Secretariat.

"It seems my time to provide answers has come," Twilight said, carefully folding the letter. "I’ll need all of you with me."

Rarity, who had remained silent until now, stepped forward. "We’ve always been with you, darling. And that’s not about to change."

*** *** ***

he morning of December 20th began under a pale sky, with the sun struggling to break through the heavy clouds over Canterlot. The grand hall of the Royal Palace was prepared for the hearing, adorned with banners of Equestria and its allied nations. International leaders sat at a long semicircular table, with Celestia and Luna at the center, flanked by Cadance, Shining Armor, and the leaders of Zeebrundia, Fortekzia, Yakistan, and Saddle Arabia.

The six entered in a line, led by Twilight, whose expression betrayed restrained concern. The tension in the air was palpable, as if time itself had paused. The murmurs in the hall ceased when Celestia raised a hoof, signaling the start.

"Princess Twilight Sparkle, we appreciate your presence and that of your friends at this hearing. Given the gravity of recent events, both in Equestria and beyond, we deemed it necessary to hear directly from you about what occurred," Celestia began, her voice measured.

Twilight bowed her head respectfully before speaking, her voice resonating across the hall:
"Thank you for the opportunity, Princess Celestia. I understand that my reputation and that of my friends has been called into question. I wish to clarify the facts and reaffirm my commitment to harmony and truth."

Golden Valley was the first to intervene, his rigid posture reflecting the seriousness of the moment. "Princess Twilight, the video circulating worldwide shows you attacking a citizen. Even if it is manipulated, as you claim, the question remains: what exactly happened that day?"

Twilight took a deep breath before responding, "What happened was an unexpected confrontation. Spit Splinter used dark magic against me, endangering many lives. My aim was to stop her, not harm her. Unfortunately, the video was edited to make it appear as though I acted impulsively and violently."

Prince Rutherford huffed, his deep voice filling the hall. "Why would Starlight and her followers do this? Are there any proofs showing manipulation?"

"We don’t have concrete evidence yet, but we believe Socialist Equestria is behind this manipulation," Applejack replied, leaning over the table. "We’re working to uncover the truth."

The Emperor of Zeebrundia, his posture regal, crossed his hooves before intervening. "Without proof, how do you plan to regain the trust of the people? The doubt sown by this video is a powerful weapon. What do you propose to overcome this crisis?"

Twilight glanced at Celestia and Luna before answering. "I propose full transparency. We will investigate and share our findings while reinforcing the values of harmony that have always guided us. It won’t be easy, but I believe the truth will prevail."

Cadance, who had remained silent until then, finally spoke, her voice laden with concern. "Twilight, how can we help? This crisis is shaking the trust not only in you but in all of us."

Twilight smiled, despite the tension. "Support the investigation. Show the world that we stand united, even in the face of adversity. This will strengthen our position."

Golden Valley, still skeptical, raised an eyebrow. "Unity is important, but it doesn’t solve tangible problems. What will you do to ensure this doesn’t happen again?"

Before Twilight could respond, Luna interjected, her voice authoritative. "The R.I.S.O. has been reactivated to address these threats. We are committed to identifying the culprits and preventing future manipulations. However, this takes time and patience — qualities we hope all here possess."

Silence descended upon the hall until Celestia spoke once more. "The crisis in Equestria is significant but not insurmountable. We ask for the support of our allies to weather this storm. United, we are stronger."

The leaders murmured among themselves, seemingly deep in thought. At last, Golden Valley slowly nodded, followed by Rutherford and the others. The hearing concluded with a mix of uncertainty and hope as the Bearers of the Elements left the hall, carrying the weight of a nation on their shoulders.

*** *** ***

Meanwhile, in Ponyville, Starlight and her allies were planning their next steps. Their pursuit of power was accelerating, with expectations that they could dismantle the diarchy and erode faith in the Elements within a few years. Socialist Equestria was growing increasingly popular, with its influence spreading beyond Equestria to other nations — Changeling Lands, the Crystal Empire, Maretonia, Fortekzia, and Zeebrundia. Although its reach was not yet entirely effective, rebellious youth were beginning to adopt socialism as an ideology.

"How’s our plan coming along, Iron?" Starlight asked, sipping her afternoon tea.

"It’s not so easy to form a militia, Starlight. It takes time," Iron Hammer replied, scrolling through his phone.

Starlight nodded. "Alright, but try to move quickly."

Dark, with a malicious grin, displayed a map on his laptop, marked with areas where support for socialism was strongest. "With public opinion turning against the Princesses, our chances of success only grow!"

"And what if S.M.I.L.E. manages to silence our supporters? We need to be ready for anything!" Moon Bite raised the concern.

"Let them try. The truth is on our side… or at least the version the public wants to believe," Starlight said, unfazed by the possibility.

"We’re gaining support from the Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts!" Spit announced, noting that members of the military and Wonderbolts were among their page followers.

"With their backing, even if only partial, power is already within our grasp!" Starlight commented, finishing her tea. "That’s it! Iron, we’ll need protests calling for political reform."

"Now?"

"Not right now, but contact the unions to prepare for these protests," Starlight replied.

Hammer chuckled, nodding in agreement. Moon quickly adopted the idea, posting comments on social media about the need for political reform, further stoking feelings of injustice and marginalization among Tracian militants. Over the days, Iron’s militia began to take shape. Former members of the Royal Guard and police joined the group, with unionists forming the majority of the militia, which was named the Unified Harmony Committee. S.M.I.L.E. infiltrated the first cell with ease.

*** *** ***

In her search for allies, Applejack called on farmers from all over Equestria to gather in Ponyville. Apple, pear, cherry farmers — those from every type of crop — arrived for the meeting. As expected, rural workers tended to align more with Harmonism and the diarchy. However, many still harbored doubts about the Elements of Harmony and their trustworthiness.

In the barn at Sweet Apple Acres, a crowd of farmers had assembled. The air buzzed with murmurs of uncertainty. Applejack, her hat firmly adjusted and her gaze resolute, climbed onto a makeshift platform to address the group. Among the attendees was Grand Pear, his expression serious as he observed the proceedings.

"Thank y’all for comin’. I know these times have been hard on us all. But if there’s one thing I know, it’s that we farmers are the backbone of Equestria. Always have been, and always will be!" Applejack declared, standing tall, her confidence evident.

"And what d’ya want from us, Applejack?" asked a brown-coated pony, tilting his hat. "Plenty of folks have lost their faith in the Bearers!"

Applejack took a deep breath, nodding. "I know, sugarcube. I ain’t here to pretend everything’s fine or that we haven’t made mistakes. But we’ve never stopped fightin’ for what’s right. And what’s happenin’ now in Equestria? This division, these fiery speeches… it ain’t harmony. It’s chaos dressed up as equality."

Grand Pear stepped forward, his deep voice cutting through the quiet. "It’s easy to say that, Applejack. But what do we get by stickin’ with the Princesses? We farmers have always been overlooked. Why should now be any different?"

Applejack met her grandfather’s gaze, her determination unwavering. "Because now’s the time to make ourselves heard, Grandpa. If we let Starlight and the others manipulate folks, what do y’all think’ll happen to our farms? They’ll promise equality but take our land, our livelihood. They’ll wanna control everythin’ we do, all in the name of the ‘greater good.’ We can’t let that happen!"

"But how can we trust you? Twilight’s video… it’s hard to ignore," a young pear farmer from Vanhoover chimed in.

Applejack bit her lip, her ears drooping slightly, but she remained composed. "That video was manipulated; I promise you that. I know Twilight better than anyone here. She’d never hurt another pony without a darn good reason. But the problem’s bigger than that. They want us to doubt everything, to fight amongst ourselves. ‘Cause while we’re busy fightin’, they’re gettin’ stronger."

"What can we do, Applejack?" Grand Pear asked, his focus solely on his granddaughter.

Applejack scanned the crowd before answering, "We need to stand together, just like we always have during tough harvests and storms that tore through our fields. We need to show Equestria that its farmers won’t bow down to those who want to destroy our country. We’ll launch a campaign to show the cities that we’re the heart of Equestria—that we’re the ones who feed the people and uphold harmony."

"A campaign might work, but we’ll need everyone on board," a beige-coated pony nodded in agreement.

"Applejack’s right. We’ve always had our differences, but in the end, we’re farmers. And we know that without harmony, no harvest can last. I’m in!" Grand Pear shouted, raising his hoof, rekindling a youthful vigor.

The barn filled with murmurs among the farmers. Applejack’s idea was unanimously approved. She smiled, relief washing over her. "Thank you, Grand Pear. Thank y’all. Let’s show them that when the countryside unites, nothin’ can bring us down!"

"I already know what we’ll call our alliance… Harmony and Tradition," Granny Smith declared from the barn’s entrance. Big Mac and Apple Bloom worked outside as the meeting unfolded.

Meanwhile, back at Twilight’s castle, reinforcements had begun to arrive despite the ongoing protests. A knock sounded at the back door, and Spike opened it. Hoofsteps echoed on the floor as two ponies were led to the map room. Twilight turned to the door at the creak of its hinges — it was Trixie and Sunburst.

"Thank you for coming!" Twilight exclaimed, her smile genuine at their arrival.

"I came as soon as I got your message," Sunburst said, adjusting his glasses.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie is always available to help those in need…" Trixie announced theatrically. Twilight rolled her eyes and motioned for them to approach the table laden with notes and diagrams.

"I’m glad you both came. We’re facing a crisis bigger than anything we’ve dealt with before, and I need your help," Twilight said, her expression a mix of exhaustion and resolve.

Trixie raised an eyebrow, tilting her head. "Trixie understands the situation is difficult, but what exactly do you expect us to do? We’re not, how shall I put it… experts in solving international crises."

Sunburst adjusted his glasses, examining the papers on the table. "Twilight, you mentioned something about information manipulation in your message. Is this related to that video going around?"

"Yes. The video was altered to make it look like I lost control and attacked an innocent citizen. It’s destroying the public’s trust in the Elements of Harmony and, by extension, in Equestria. I need your help to expose this forgery," Twilight admitted with a sigh.

Trixie stomped a hoof, lifting her chin. "Information manipulation? Pfft! The Great and Powerful Trixie can easily uncover this lie… provided you have something tangible for Trixie to work with, of course."

Twilight rolled her eyes but kept her tone serious. "That’s exactly why I called you both. Sunburst, your skills in magic and technology might be key to analyzing the video and proving it was tampered with. And Trixie…" Twilight paused, choosing her words carefully. "Your illusionist talents could help us create a way to visually demonstrate the manipulation to the public."

Sunburst stroked his chin thoughtfully. "If I can get access to the original video, I might be able to trace the edits and even figure out who’s behind them."

Twilight sighed, her gaze filled with sorrow as she met their eyes. "That’s the second reason I called you… Starlight is responsible for this."

Trixie’s eyes widened, and she took a step back. Her previously confident tone wavered. "Starlight? Are you sure, Twilight? She’s been… complicated in the past, but this? This is… extreme, even for her."

Twilight nodded, her eyes reflecting the pain and weight of her revelation. "I wish I were wrong, Trixie. But the pattern is clear—the video editing, coordination with the unions, social media posts… Starlight and her allies are behind this. She’s not the same pony who tried to change, who tried to be better. Something’s changed."

Trixie swallowed hard but slowly regained her confidence. "Well, if that’s the case, then Trixie has no choice. If Starlight is behind this, the Great and Powerful Trixie will do whatever it takes to expose her. And, of course, help her dear friend Twilight… for a modest share of the glory, naturally."

"It’s not about glory, Trixie. It’s about saving Equestria. I’ll need all the help I can get. Are you both with me?" Twilight offered a faint smile.

Sunburst lifted his gaze from the map, his expression resolute. "I always have been, Twilight. But we need to act quickly. The longer this video circulates, the harder it’ll be to shift public perception."

Trixie grinned confidently, stomping her hoof. "Then it’s decided! Trixie is with you. Let’s show the world the truth and prove that manipulation cannot win."

"Thank you, both of you. Let’s work together to uncover this deception and restore harmony to Equestria," Twilight said, a renewed hope glowing in her heart.

*** *** ***

Sunburst got to work analyzing the video, identifying the manipulations within it, while Trixie assisted in the task. Meanwhile, the Unified Harmony Committee was slowly expanding, with new cells forming in other parts of Equestria. Former military personnel helped train recruits and acquire weapons. Revolvers, pistols, rifles, and muskets found their way into the hooves of the militiamen, some of whom crafted the weapons themselves. S.M.I.L.E., wasting no time, infiltrated the first cell with ease.

In an abandoned warehouse near Baltimare, a newly formed UHC cell was abuzz with activity. The dim light from magical lamps hung from the ceiling flickered over the smell of gun oil and wood. The sounds of metal grinding and parts being adjusted filled the air as former soldiers trained recruits in assembling and maintaining improvised weapons.

A burly, dark-coated earth pony named Flint Barrel moved among the recruits, inspecting their progress. A former Royal Guard veteran turned tactical instructor for the UHC, Flint’s stern demeanor kept the trainees focused.

"Keep it steady! We don’t want these scraps falling apart mid-fight!" Flint growled, stomping a hoof near a trembling recruit adjusting the stock of an improvised rifle.

A pegasus recruit named Gale Wing raised her voice, "Mr. Barrel, our weapons are no match for what the Royal Guard has. How do you expect us to stand a chance if they confront us?"

Flint gave a grim smile, tapping his chest lightly with a hoof. "It’s not just about weapons, girl. It’s about grit. Knowing where to strike. They may have better equipment, but we’ve got the element of surprise. Strategy and initiative win battles."

At the back of the warehouse, another pegasus named Arc Glow, a former blacksmith, demonstrated to recruits how to craft homemade ammunition. Known for his precision and stern manner, he emphasized the importance of their task.

"Every bullet you make is a chance to shape the future. Take this seriously. One mistake, and it’s not just a misfire — it’s a setback for our cause," Arc instructed as he carefully molded a projectile using his magical tools.

Despite the intense training, not all recruits shared the same confidence. A young earth pony named Clay Hoof pulled Gale aside during a break.

"Don’t you think this is going too far? We’re talking about going up against the Royal Guard… They’re not just gonna let us walk away if we’re caught," Clay whispered, his wide eyes betraying his fear.

Gale hesitated, glancing at Flint and Arc, who were still hard at work. "It’s scary, Clay, but if we don’t do something, who will? They need us, and the UHC is the only chance to make a difference. Besides, they can’t arrest all of us."

As the recruits resumed their training, a hooded figure silently entered the warehouse. No one noticed at first, but Flint was the first to catch sight of the newcomer.

"Who are you?" Flint demanded, narrowing his eyes and cautiously approaching.

The stranger slowly lowered his hood, revealing an ordinary-looking earth pony with a cold, calculated gaze. He smirked slightly. "Just someone who believes in the cause… and who has information you might find useful."

Flint’s eyes narrowed further as he signaled for two nearby recruits to stay alert.

"Useful information, huh? And what makes you think we’d trust you?" Flint’s voice dripped with suspicion.

The stranger took a step forward, unfazed by the tension in the room. "I don’t expect trust right away. But what I have to offer can save lives — or end them, depending on how you choose to use it."

The militia stopped what they were doing, their attention now fixed on the exchange. Flint didn’t lower his guard but motioned for the stranger to continue.

"I hear you’re struggling to get quality ammunition. As it happens, I have access to a depot near Baltimare full of supplies that could be… useful."

Arc Glow raised an eyebrow, stepping closer. "A depot, huh? And why would someone like you just hand that over? What’s in it for you?"

"I want what you want: a chance to change the system. I have my reasons for wanting the diarchy gone, and you’re the only group I see with the courage to challenge it," the stranger said, his expression calm.

Flint exchanged a wary glance with Arc, who seemed equally skeptical.

"Mighty convenient, showing up with a gift like this. Why don’t I drag you outside and see if your intel holds water?" Flint threatened, his eyes narrowing.

"You can try," the stranger replied, his smirk fading into a more serious expression. "But before you do, consider what’s at stake. You’re outmatched, short on resources, and facing a more powerful enemy. Ignoring what I have could cost you dearly."

Flint hesitated, the stranger’s words hitting a nerve. Something still felt off, but before he could respond, Gale Wing stepped forward.

"If what he says is true, we could give him the benefit of the doubt… cautiously. Let’s send a small team to verify this depot before we make any moves."

After a few moments of thought, Flint nodded. "Fine. You’re takin’ us there. But if this is a trap…" He let the threat hang in the air, his glare speaking volumes.

The stranger only smiled enigmatically. "Don’t worry. You won’t regret this."

As the tension eased, the stranger scanned the group carefully, memorizing faces and movements. He knew this was just the beginning. As an undercover S.M.I.L.E. agent, his mission was to identify the leadership, map contacts, and gain the militia’s trust to dismantle it from within.

Back at Sweet Apple Acres, the members of Harmony and Tradition were arming themselves much like the UHC. Revolvers and rifles began appearing on the farms, and families practiced shooting on their land, always under the banner of self-defense. Initially, Applejack opposed Big Macintosh’s stockpiling of weapons, but she eventually relented. The farmers now maintained closer communication than ever before.

*** *** ***

At the Royal Guard barracks in Canterlot, the atmosphere was growing increasingly tense. Once a symbol of unity and loyalty, the Guard was now facing an internal crisis. Groups of soldiers were forming factions, some aligning with traditionalist ideals, while others sympathized with the fiery rhetoric of EQUESOC.

In the training courtyard, the guards were divided into smaller groups, practicing drills separately. Iron Shield, newly promoted to Captain, walked between the lines, observing closely. He noticed a group of unicorns practicing containment spells under Lieutenant Star Blade’s leadership, while another group of pegasi and earth ponies trained in close-combat formations.

"Form ranks!" Iron Shield ordered, stomping his hoof firmly on the ground. The soldiers hesitated before obeying, each faction standing on opposite sides of the Captain.

Murmurs rippled through the courtyard, soon fading into silence. An earth pony glanced disdainfully at a unicorn traditionalist standing nearby.

"You unicorns always think you’re in charge of everything... maybe it’s time we set things straight," the earth pony said, his voice dripping with disgust.

Iron Shield remained silent, though deep down, he sympathized with the soldier’s sentiment. Star Blade, leading the traditionalist group, turned and strode toward the earth pony.

"And maybe you should learn that brute strength alone isn’t enough to lead!" Star Blade retorted.

The murmurs returned, quickly escalating into shouts and insults. Pegasi tried to intervene but were soon drawn into the argument. Soft Lance—now a Major—galloped as fast as she could toward the command office to report the escalating conflict.

"This is out of control! The division grows worse every day!" she said, addressing Colonel Blue Sky.

"We can’t ignore this. The guards are picking sides. It won’t be long before these factions become more than just differences of opinion," Blue Sky replied, crossing his hooves as he gazed at the floor.

Marble Quill, a light gray unicorn with a blue-gray mane, interjected. "What do we do? Meetings? Orders? That won’t solve the problem. External forces are fueling this division, and we’re just standing here, watching it unravel."

After a brief discussion, Soft Lance and Lieutenant Marble trotted down the hallway, with Blue Sky flying close behind. By the time they reached the courtyard, the verbal argument had turned physical. Shoves and spells flew as traditionalists and socialists clashed. The pegasi attempted to separate the groups but failed miserably.

"Stop it! That’s enough!" Iron Shield’s voice boomed, but it fell on deaf ears.

"Enough!" Soft Lance’s voice cut through the chaos. "Have you forgotten who you fight for? Have you forgotten that you are brothers and sisters in arms?"

The fighting ceased, but the tension lingered in the air. Blue Sky landed in the center of the courtyard, his wings spread wide. "Return to your ranks. This will not be tolerated. Your opinions don’t matter; you are still members of the Royal Guard."

The guards began to withdraw, though distrustful glances persisted. With the situation under control, Marble, Soft, and Blue returned to the command office. The tension was palpable. Soft Lance sat in a chair, Marble stood by a map of Canterlot, and Blue paced back and forth restlessly.

"This is getting worse by the day," Soft Lance broke the silence, resting her hooves on the table. "A division like this within the Guard is the beginning of something much more dangerous."

Blue Sky stopped, turning to face her. "It’s not just dangerous, Major. It’s unacceptable. The Royal Guard cannot afford soldiers who don’t trust one another."

Marble Quill, still studying the map, spoke in a measured tone. "This goes beyond trust. The ideals dividing the Guard are reflections of what’s happening outside. We’re seeing a smaller-scale version of what’s tearing Equestria apart."

"Then we need to act. Now," Soft Lance leaned forward, her voice firm with determination. "We could start by removing those inciting this division."

"You think it’s that simple?" Marble turned, raising an eyebrow. "If we start expelling soldiers based on their opinions, we’ll only validate the authoritarian narrative EQUESOC is spreading. That’ll reinforce the idea that we’re choosing sides."

Blue Sky nodded in agreement. "He’s right. We can’t reinforce that perception. What we need is to find a way to bring the soldiers back together, to remind them what they’re fighting for and what the Royal Guard stands for."

Soft sighed, leaning back in her chair. "And how do we do that? A meeting? An inspiring speech? We’re not dealing with recruits who just need motivation. These soldiers have deeply ingrained ideologies."

Marble approached the table, his hooves echoing on the floor. "Maybe it’s not about changing ideologies. Maybe it’s about reinforcing the mission. What sets the Royal Guard apart from any other armed group in Equestria is our commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of their beliefs."

"That sounds great on paper," Soft said, locking eyes with Marble. "But how do you put that into practice when they’re more focused on fighting each other than protecting Equestria?"

Blue Sky stomped a hoof on the table, drawing their attention. "Joint training. We’ll force these groups to work together. Simulated missions that require total cooperation. We’ll remind them that the strength of the Guard lies in unity, not division."

Marble considered this for a moment before nodding slowly. "It might work, but we’ll need strict oversight. Any sign of disobedience or hostility must be dealt with immediately. And we need to identify the leaders of these factions. If we can’t neutralize the divisions, we can at least disarm those fueling them."

Soft sighed again, this time with a faint smile. "That’s a better plan than the nothing we’ve been doing so far. We need something to show these soldiers that the Royal Guard is bigger than any ideology."

Blue Sky spread his wings in a gesture of resolve. "Then it’s decided. I want a detailed report on the leaders of these factions on my desk by tomorrow morning. And call in the senior officers. We’ll start planning immediately."

The three nodded, aware of the challenges ahead but determined to restore unity within the Royal Guard.